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			<h1 id="section_0">Anon and a Terrible time(Complete)</h1><ul id="page-actions" class="hlist"><li id="ca-edit" class="icon icon-32px icon-edit" title="Edit the lead section of this page."></li><li id="ca-talk" class="hidden icon icon-32px icon-talk"><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=Talk:Anon_and_a_Terrible_time(Complete)&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Discussion about the content page [t]" accesskey="t">Discussion</a></li><li id="ca-watch" class="watch-this-article icon icon-32px"><a href="http://mulpwiki.org/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&amp;returnto=Anon+and+a+Terrible+time%28Complete%29" title="Add this page to your watchlist [w]" accesskey="w"></a></li></ul>		</div>
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<td><b>Writefag</b>
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<td> klimino
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<td><b>Pastebin link</b>:
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<td><b>Pastebin creation</b>
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<td>Sunday 9th of April 2017 01:35:29 PM CDT
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<td><b>Last Pastebin update</b>
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<td>Thursday 20th of April 2017 09:50:04 PM CDT
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</div><h3><span class="mw-headline" id="Anon_and_a_Terrible_time.28Complete.29">Anon and a Terrible time(Complete)</span><a href="Anon_and_a_Terrible_time(Complete)#/editor/1" title="Edit section: Anon and a Terrible time(Complete)" data-section="1" class="edit-page icon icon-32px icon-edit enabled">Edit</a></h3><div>
<div dir="ltr" class="mw-geshi mw-code mw-content-ltr"><div class="gettext source-gettext">&#160;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, are Anon Mous.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And as it turns out, your 3 day hike into the Rocky Mountains might have just become a longer trip then expected.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This of course, has nothing to do with you getting lost, or you forgetting to bring a compass or a map.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No, for you would never do such a thing besides today.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It might, however, be because you have no idea where you are, because while you are no expert, you are fairly sure you would not have to be hiding behind a rock from some sorta winged lion with a scorpion tail in the Rocky Mountains.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;More importantly perhaps, you would not be watching as it traps some sorta buggy looking black horse thing in a corner, both injured and clearly in a fight to the death.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Clutching your walking stick closer to your chest, you watch as the Bug Horse fires another bolt of green energy into the Behemoth of a Lion-thing, making it shout in agony before lurching forward in a pounce.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Swiftly, the bug horse barely avoids it, sending a few more shots into the thing as it uses its wings to get behind the thing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stop yourself from yelling out as you see the Lions tail flick out and scrape across the bug horses wing, sending it flopping and rolling across the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stop yourself, because you have no idea who to root for, or why you are even watching this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For all you know, both of them will eat you as a victory meal once they win.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That is, until you hear the bug horse speak as it get to its feet, the Lion-thing leering over it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You WILL Regret that Beast, for daring to touch me at all was the last mistake your pitiful brain was to ever make.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Actually, nothing you just heard made you any more sure who to root for, though your surprise as its ability to speak at all overshadowed those feelings a bit.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After dodging a few more swipes from the lion, the bug horse, who you guess from the voice must be female, charges her horn and blasts off one of the lions wings, sending it backwards with a roar of pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Using the moment to her advantage, bug horse blasts the beast through its open maw, a Gorey hole bursting forth fro the back of its head, before it slumped to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hahahaha! Yes, To think, some Manticore thought it could best ME! Queen Chrysalis! Mother of the Changlings! Queen of the Badlands! HA! None are better, none-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She then proceeded to flop onto her side, allowing you to see quite a large gash along her side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Carefully, you step out from your rock, unsure of what the best course of action was to do.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Considering you had no idea where you were, what they, or well now only her, was, or where the nearest chunk of civilization might be, your options were slim.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She, this...Queen Chrysalis....changeling?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She was at least sapient, which meant she might be able to help.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If she was still alive of course.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Carefully, you tip toe towards her passed out possible corpse, slowly taking off and reaching into your backpack for your first aid kit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, as you were naught but a foot from her, she bolts upright.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;whowhawhereami?&quot; she mumbles out as she wobbly turns in place frantically.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her gaze stops upon you, a being you can only assume is as alien to her as she is to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Holding a large stick.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And suspiciously reaching into a backpack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She hisses at you, her horn starting to glow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shit bricks and drop everything, your hands shooting into the sky like jet planes off a runway.</span><br />&quot;Fuck point that somewhere else I dont mean no harm! Honest as the sun is round!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She doesn't blow your head off, so you suppose you got through to her at least a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She hisses, before collapsing to the ground, though clearly still conscious.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You kinda just stand there for a bit as she stares at you, horn pointed in your direction though not glowing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, your arms get tired, so you clear your throat.</span><br />&quot;Uhhh.....if I lower my arms are you gonna kill me?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis snorts and rolls her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No, I don't suppose I would.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You take that for what it is and lower them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your not sure how much more time passes, but you can guess the situation pretty clearly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You don't want to die, but she doesn't have the energy to spare to just leave or kill you, or most likely stop you if she missed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...So, who sent you?&quot;</span><br />&quot;...What?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You have no idea what shes talking about.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, An Armed and Prepared...Creature happens upon me out of nowhere? Clearly one of those Wretched ponies sent you out here to finish me off.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She snorts again, grinding her teeth. You swear you saw actual, literal fire in her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;As if taking everything else from me was not enough.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont know what shes talking about, you you most certainly are no assassin.</span><br />&quot;Actually, uhm....funny story? Im just kinda lost.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She looks at you, eyebrow raised as one would expect.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You just sorta shrug back, not sure what else you can really do to convince her of what you're saying.</span><br />&quot;Er, yup. No clue what you even are. I was just sorta...hiking, when I came upon your fight. I really have no idea how I got here or where this is. I was hoping you could help with that actually.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her eyes narrow at you, a look somewhere between annoyance and utter distrust splashed across her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And why would I help you? Whatever in Equestria you even are.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Rude.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly leaning down, you start reaching into your bag again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her horn instantly lights up like its the 4th again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Falling backwards on your ass, you cover yourself with your arms, as perhaps they are laser proof.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;0</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Instead of dying, she, magically you presume, lifts your bag up in the air and floats it over to her, rummaging through it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As all you have in there is food, a Tent strapped to the bottom, a Firekit, and a med kit, it doesn't take her too long to empty it of its belongings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly allow yourself to uncurl, and look over.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Somehow, she appears to know what your Medkit was, and has already opened it and started using its contents to patch herself up.</span><br />&quot;....Want some help with that?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Touch me beast, and I WILL gut you like the feeble dirt crawler you are.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Duly noted...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Left with little else to do, you simply sit and watch as she bandages up her side and wing carefully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It felt like ages passed as you die, your pretty sure the light even got dimmer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, both of you jolt out of your stupor as a sickening roar eachos around you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You bolt to your feet, turning in the direction of the sound, before a thud behind you catches your attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It seems Queen Chysalis had the same idea as you but had been too weak, her legs unable to support her weakened state.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your gaze goes forward again, as a much larger, and...stranger looking Manticore, if you remember what she said correctly, comes around the corner.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't know anything about their biology, but the fact this one looked almost zombie like seemed to not be right to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Swiftly turning between the beast staring you down and Chrysalis unable to stand, you realize you have a decision to make.</span><br />&quot;Alright, uh, Chry-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That is QUEEN Chrysalis to YOU, Creature!&quot;</span><br />&quot;&quot;.Right, no time for that,You want to live?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She tries to stare you down, but another roar and the pounding of paws on the ground behind you breaks the silence.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Without thinking you rush in her direction, ignoring whatever she was blaring out as you full on tackle her, barely avoiding the Manticore as your pretty sure you feel its chest fur brushing your back for a moment.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As your rolling comes to an end, you dazedly attempt to get to your feet, before Chrysalis pushes you to the ground, horn to your throat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What did I say you lowly worm!?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Another roar pulls both your sights to your left, where the beast is starting to circle towards you two.</span><br />&quot;Look, I dont want to die, you cant even stand, lets be real here. You blast it, ill do the running, ok?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She turns back towards you, more fire burning in her eyes as she snarls at you, hron glowing brightly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You are not sure why she had fangs, you did not want to find out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...You dare to drop me and ill make sure your death is much more painful then that monster could ever grace upon you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Taking that for what it was, you quickly scoop her up, ignoring her yelp of pain and surprise and simply start dashing down the mountain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly positioning her head across your shoulder, you feel an uncomfortable amount of heat as she fires shots at the pounding Manticore you can hear getting closer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Knowing there is no fucking way you're going to be able to outrun such a massive monster, you quickly turn and start half sliding down a steeper edge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;what in Tartaruses name are you doing!?&quot; Chrysalis yells in your ear.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You have no time to answer as you get to the bottom and turn around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I swear if you get us both killed I will make sure your afterlife is the worst it can ever be!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ignore your hearing loss machine as you stare at the Manticore Zombie rushing down the incline after you, taking a few steps backwards towards the cliff edge behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Stop, stop STOP!&quot; she yells into your ear, making you wince a bit. &quot;You take one more step backwards you IMBECILE and were both nothing but stains upon the ro- ah, I see.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hope that means she understands what you have planned.</span><br />&quot;Think you can hit its wings?&quot; you say.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Please, those...things, are so rotted I wont need to.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Godamn I fucking hope you're right...&quot;<br /><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You of course, had planned to jump aside at the last moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Manticore leaping past you, its momentum too much, and it disappearing over the edge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What actually happened, is that as you jumped out of the way, you scream, as its stinger slashes across your back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The beast itself attempts to turn itself around, and while it does go over the edge, its claws firmly grip onto the edge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily, Chrysalis is on the case, blasting the cliff-side where its claws are, and you hear its roar slowly fade below as you hunch over on the ground, wincing in pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ooooooh please, that is NOTHING compared to what I have suffered. Surely your species is not so brittle?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had a strong urge to throw her over the edge aswell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But, sadly, you would need her you suspected.</span><br />&quot;Please Queen Chrysalis, give me a moment to pull myself together. This is not exactly a situation I am used to...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a grumble, she shrugs. &quot;Well I suppose your ridiculous plan succeeded in the end, so I have little complaints. We should, however, get moving, it is unlikely that was the last danger hidden in these mountains.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It takes a moment, but your able to pull yourself to your feet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;slowly lifting your charge back into your arms, thankfully with no complaint this time, you look back up the slope.</span><br />&quot;Well, shit, I dont think I can make it back up that for my stuff...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Bah, if we get moving now you wont need it. Theres a small Griffin Village further down the Mountain. Hardly the most hospitable of creatures, but there should be enough abandoned housing to spend the night within.&quot;</span><br />&quot;....Griffins? You mean the big, lionbird carnivores? Aren't those like the beast we just met?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis breaks out into hearty laughter, before wincing and spitting in pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, they certainly are barbarians, but sentient to some degree. Unless you're a fish or mountian goat we should be fine.&quot;</span><br />&quot;..Alright....if you say so...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, you start walking.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a longer walk then Chrysalis had made it out to be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And while you by no means were going to mention it, even if your back wasn't slashed, she was pretty damn heavy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But, finally, you see a gate appear in the moonlight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;one that is unguarded, and looks more worse for wear.</span><br />&quot;You...sure this is the right place Queen Chrys?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Queen CHRYSALIS you mongrel. And yes, im sure. The Griffins don't much care to take care of their structures. Ah, stop for a moment, this is quite close enough.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You obey, though you dont really know what shes going on about.</span><br />&quot;Close enough? Thought we wanted to be IN the village, not camp out around it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Shut it and give me a moment.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrug, before nearly dropping her as you fall backwards on your ass out of surprise as her body is suddenly engulfed in bright green flames.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You may or may not have screamed like a kid.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;More importantly, Chrysalis now weighed a bit more, which you were simply not expecting.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't expecting her to suddenly be a GODAMNED GRIFFIN either.</span><br />&quot;...What the actual FUCK!?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your only answer is her whipping you over the back of your head with a claw, which was not amusing at all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You dense idiot! You nearly dropped me! Honestly, you are a terrible underling.&quot;</span><br />&quot;I...You...Griffin...Underling!? WHAT?!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind simply couldn't take it. Your day had already been utter unexplainable nonsense, but pain and adrenalin had kept your mind straight enough.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you had your limits, and this was just about it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh please, &quot;is this really what that tiny brain of yours recoils at? &quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;as you open your mouth to try and answer, she slaps a claw over it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Village. Now. I need my sleep and the nights not young.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you yourself didn't feel like you were at your own limit, you would probably have argued.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Instead, you dig deep and lift her fatass up, grumbling as you make your way into the village.</span><br /><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At first glance, you swear the village is abandoned.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you then see a bit of light coming from cracks and windows here and there, so someone must be in a few of them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The streets are abandoned however, and the village itself is in such disrepair you are surprised anyone DOES live here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You come to a stop, looking around slowly, unsure of what to do next.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Which is why you ask.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Honestly? Do I have to think for the both of us now? Look for a abandoned house!&quot;</span><br />&quot;What....should I just....look in the windows?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis gives you a death glare, and so you swallow the frog in your throat and decide that must be the best course of action.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It takes much less time then you expected, only nearly waking up two griffins from their slumber before finding one that seemed to be empty.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The lack of a front door should've been quite the indicator, you decide, as you head inside the desolate building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Its innards had been stripped bear. Not a chair was left, not a bed-frame, a picture.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just some rubble from part of the roof that had collapsed and some trash.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Setting Chrysalis down in the back room, you slid down the wall onto the ground, the weight of the day hitting you like a truck after everything that had happened.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So, Creature. What exactly is it you are called?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;in your efforts to fight off sleep for a bit longer, you hardly can muster the energy to try and tell her off, so just go for a simple answer.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Im Anon Mous...Human....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your ears ring with the sound of blood as your eyelids grow heavy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Human? Never heard of them. And that name is simply atrocious, you dont really expect ME to use that, do you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As she Continues talking, all you hear is mumbles and bits as your eyes slowly close.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;IT had been a long day, now was not the time for questions.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Those could wait until the morning, you just hoped you would last til then.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;By the time light slowly cascaded onto your face, you can only grumble and pull the blanket over your eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This of course, only jolts you awake with the realization you should not have a blanket.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Attempting not to freak out, you look around the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While hard to tell if it is familiar or not, you know it must not be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The last one was a bit more rundown.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And didn't have a bed in it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Further inspection leaves you with your companion missing, and some bandages across your chest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're about to get up and try and figure out where the blaze you are when something terrible happens.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You realize that everything that's happened to you so far is real.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You fight back as your mind races. The Manticores, Chrysalis and her powers. That Feeling as your back was cut, of thinking you were about to die.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hands shaking, you cover your mouth. Fighting back whimpers and a sudden urge to vomit, you flop back onto your side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A sudden knock at the door pulls you out of your muck and into reality.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Without a word, a very large and not too friendly looking griffin enters the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It Full on kicks a small table into the room, before walking in and setting a tray of...something, down on it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey, you, eat up.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Judging by the voice this was a female.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, slowly, raise your hand like a kid in a classroom, not really sure what else to do.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt; The griffin raises an eyebrow, looking between you and your hand a few times, before her face slumps down into annoyance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;really?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt; Blushing, you lower your hand.</span><br />&quot;Sorry, im....new, to these parts. I really didn't know how to ask, but, well, I guess-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Your Friend Charla wasn't as badly injured as you, went out to do something or the other, I don't know she didn't tell me.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Char....err, right, Charla....Well...glad shes alright....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly grab the food tray, not wanting to let your mind sit and think on anything else at the moment.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly take a bite.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now, you are not one to make lists.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Its just not your thing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But if you were one to?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then this food would go down as one of the most utterly sickening things you have ever eaten.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sit there, the Putrid taste sitting in your mouth, Your griffin charge staring, urging every part of your body to swallow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you do, You swallow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You only hope it wont be another thing you regret.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well? How was it?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;the Griffin is impatiently flicking its tail around, even if she seems to be trying to look as uninterested as possible in your very existence.</span><br />&quot;...So, uhhh, thanks for helping us out....err...how did you find us though?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The griffin mumbles something about ungrateful outsiders while starring at the 'food' you had sat back down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I just happened to pass by the window and saw you against the wall, blood across it. I wasn't TRYING to find people to help or anything STUPID like that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sip the drink that had come with your pretend food, thankfully just water, as you keep eye contact with the griffin, wondering how she could be so animate in her body language and have managed not to even touch the walls with her wings.</span><br />&quot;...well, err, thanks anyways? I guess I didn't realize how bad my injury was...might not be here now if it wasn't for you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah, well, your welcome.....Im...Gilda.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Huh, nice name. Im Anon Mous.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hold out a hand, not know if that was a custom here or not.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At first, you take her hesitation as a sign of no, but after a moment she takes it and brutally shakes the fuck out of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After regaining your bearings after being treated like a ragdoll, you are about to speak again when a familiar voice enters the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, im glad to see you're up and about Anon Mous. Think you can walk, we do have a long journey ahead of us afterall.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis...no, Charla as of now, says in a disturbingly monotone voice as she squeezes into the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It is of course, this moment you cannot refuse your mind anymore.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Why was she a griffin now?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The name change and pretending to know you, you could understand she was playing the part she had...transformed into.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you didn't know why she had to in the first place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She had mentioned griffins weren't the friendliest creatures, but then the first...real griffin you meet helps you?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Feel your jaw lock as you realize you cant exactly ask anything you want of her without giving he away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And while you didn't know if you could actually trust her you didn't know if betraying her was the best option you had either.</span><br />&quot;Yes....a Long journey...Could you remind me where were going again? My heads still foggy, must be the blood loss, haha.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She Chuckles along with you, though hers sounds much more convincing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Why, North of course, to the train station! Its still a long ways off, especially by foot, and the ride into Equestria isn't going to be much shorter!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wait, you're heading for Equestria?&quot; Gilda pipes up. &quot;Cause, well, not like I care but, I was planning to head there myself pretty soon.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You open your mouth to answer, but...Charla pips up much quicker.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, that would be...nice. But im in no position to fly, and Anon heres not the fastest-&quot;</span><br />&quot;Rude.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;-So im not sure our pace would be fast enough for you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah, well, I probably shouldn't even let you guys leave the house! Errr, not that its my problem, but neither of you are fully healed, and I don't even know what HE is!&quot;</span><br />&quot;Human, im a human. And, actually, I...WE could use all the help we could get, right CHARLA?&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Charla stares at you, and you wonder if your about to be found part of a double murder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;....Well, in our current situation, I cant deny extra help would be foolish to turn down. We need to leave sooner then later though, so let me know when you're ready.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, she turned and left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was a moment of awkward silence, but luckily Gilda broke it first.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So...a, uhh, Human? Where are those from?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, flopping back against the wall and mumbling to yourself.</span><br />&quot;That, is a question I hope this 'Equestria' can answer. I Really dont know where I am, where this is, or what anything even is. my...friend is being a bit aloof on you. We only just met, if it wasn't for those...Manticores, we probably wouldn't of even been traveling together.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh...err...well.....I cant really help with....that, even if I wanted to of course. But.....I do know some knuckleheads that might be able to help you...if anyone can its those dorks...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod slowly, before setting down the water you had been holding this whole damned time and, slowly, get onto your feet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Surprisingly, Gilda Dashes over and help you up a bit, though you didnt actually feel like you needed it.</span><br />&quot;...thanks.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;uhh....your....welcome?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She pulls back, looking off at the wall an scratching the back of your head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im gonna go...get ready...for the journey. Ill let Charla know you're up.&quot;</span><br />&quot;...Right.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that you were alone again, little questions answered, though perhaps now a place to get them done.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Meanwhile you were trapped between a creature pretending to be a griffin and who you had no idea what she was up to.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And a Griffin who seemed to not know if she wanted to throw you down a ravine or help you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If ever you wished you were just simply stuck in rush hour traffic, now was the time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Actually, that still sounded worse then this, which made you question your priorities.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly leave the room, not sure how much strain you want to put on yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Charla sits in what you assume is a living room, looking over some books and a map.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly peeking at it, you realize its a useless gesture as you have no clue where you are.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly looking around, you cant see or hear Gilda at all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;taking the moment to your advantage, you lean against the table and start to open you're mouth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Your going to ask why I didn't just leave? Or maybe why I chose the destination I did?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Charla turns your agape self with a smile, leaning against the table herself.</span><br />&quot;...For a start....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shrugs, and goes back to looking over her books.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I was headed there anyways, and knew it would be a place that could help you. As much as I loathe your presence or admitting to it, I am in no position to deny help. Besides, you may just be useful to me afterall.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight. &quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You attempt to catch a glimpse of what shes reading, but the language does not match what you know, unlike the verbal one it appears.</span><br />&quot;So...whats with the disguise anyways?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Griffins aren't a friendly species.&quot;</span><br />&quot;...This one seems to be.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;THIS one, is an anomaly. But despite your underhanded tactics to get her to come alon-&quot;</span><br />&quot;Wait, wait wait? ME?! Underhanded!? Yo-your the one-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, she slams a claw over your lips. The look in her eyes shuts you right up, for her true eyes shine forth, just for a moment, full of as much fire as you have ever seen them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Most of those griffins would've gutted both of us like I did that monsters throat. Do not question my methods, worm.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly, you push her talon off your face. Luckily, her eyes return the their illusion and she seems to calm down pretty quickly.</span><br />&quot;You really aren't trying too hard to win my trust.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I don't need your trust, only your cooperation. Just as thats all you need from me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were beginning to wonder what the hell you had stumbled yourself into.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;...Whatever, That works for me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I excepted as such. Hardly a drop of love left in you afterall.&quot;</span><br />&quot;I..wha...what the fuck did you just say?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel your fists clench tight as you stare her down, trying to put as much anger itn oyours as she did hers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;but it fails as visions of your life back home start swimming in your head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;ones you never let yourself think about there, much less...here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She smirks, and you pull away, staring out the window for nothing better to look at.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, that certainly hit home didn't it?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Without much hesitation, you find yourself swinging at her, before suddenly you stop yourself as the door starts opening from the outside world.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly pulling back, you Watch as Gilda comes in with three packs that seem to be quite full.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She stops, caught off guard by your sour mood and the smirk still stretched across 'Charlas' face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Err....im back?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wonderful, im just about done here so we can leave as soon as you two are ready.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, Charla Turns back to her books.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With little else to do, you shrug.</span><br />&quot;I guess im ready...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Right....well, I still got a few things to grab, so...continue with whatever, I dont care.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, Gilda headed deeper into the house, leaving you alone with the bags and Charla.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a few moments of silence, you sigh, and take a seat at the table, staring across it at 'Charla' with what little malice you could muster, though you really just weren't feeling up to it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After more silence, you decide talking couldn't hurt.</span><br />&quot;So...what even was that? About 'drops of love' and all that?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Charla Looks up at you for a moment, before going back to her reading.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Nothing to discuss with extra company.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Ah, of course. Why would it ever?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You see her smirk again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Glad to see you ARE capable of learning afterall.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;...So are you a rabid cunt because you just are one, or to make up for your own shortcomings?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You proudly spit some venom back her direction, hoping for once to throw her off her high horse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Though considering what she actually was you couldn't help but wonder if the analogy was a bit off the mark.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment of silence, she slams the book close and sets it down on the table.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She stares across at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You expected more anger, or her to be miffed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Instead she simply smirks again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Dont try to play my game dear, you wont win.&quot;</span><br />&quot;You didn't answer my question.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She full on smiles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No, I didn't.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, knowing you aren't going to win this by forcing the issue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not yet at least.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, Gilda comes back out, carrying a smaller side bag.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Alright, im ready whenever you dweebs are.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quitly, both you and Charla get up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And with that, in silence, all three grab a pack and head out the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You grimace at the sudden sunlight, but as your eyes adjust you can help but gasp.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The town looked even worse then you imagined.</span><br />&quot;...What even happened here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Nothing happened here, Griffins just don't care. Not about anything or anyone.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn to Gilda, who just sorta shrugs and points down the road.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This way, ill lead I guess. Oh, and try to avoid attracting attention, we don't need any fuss.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Ri.....right...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pulling your heavy pack a bit up, you wince a bit as it rubs against your injured back, but think better of mentioning it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't going to figure anything out lying in a bed, so your options were too slim to not simply put up with some shit.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;How long til we reach this train you mentioned?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Charla Shrugs, letting Gilda Answer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;An hour or two? Maybe three. Dunno, don't care. Not my fault we aren't flying.&quot;</span><br />&quot;....ok then.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, your group made their way down the street and out of town.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't help but feel apprehensive about leaving, it was no home, but it at least resembled something you mind recognized, and you didn't know how much of that you would be getting in the future.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It indeed felt like hours of travel, but as the sun rose high to your surprise, you actually see train tracks down below, running off into the unknown distance.</span><br />&quot;Hot damn....there actually is one...&quot; You whisper to yourself.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Uhh...yeah? What? Thought we were pulling your leg?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blush, turning to Gilda, not realizing you had spoken so loudly.</span><br />&quot;No, I just, after everything ive been through, I guess I just...didn't know what to actually expect....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shrugs, while Charla chuckles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Grumbling, you follow along down the path.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually you reach the Train Station, though no Train appears to be here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Glilda simply sits down under the awning, and Charla joins her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment of silence, you sit down with them.</span><br />&quot;...so....when does the train come?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Like, another hour, maybe two.&quot; Gilda says with another shrug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wondered how much energy it took to pretend not to care so much, you certainly didn't know if you had that in you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And so you wait, silence like a weight over the air, until you hear a Train horn in the distance a bit later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;as the train pulls up, you cant help but raise your own eyebrow in confusion at what you were witnessing.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was...colorful, to say the least.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quite...decorative too.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, as the train doors open, you realize you never bought tickets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This is of course, before the few small, colorful equines step off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Most were just colorful ponies with an arry of brands on their flnak.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But one, you notice, has a horn.</span><br />&quot;what.....are they?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;you didnt even realize you had talked, but both Charla and Gilda turn to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Your kidding, right?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn to Gilda, slowly shaking your head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh dear Celestia you really weren't kidding. Those are ponies? The Inhabitants of Equestria?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel your mouth opening and closing, words evading your mind as it races.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gilda Faceclaws, pulling downward as she lets out a grunt of annoyance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Alright, well fine, Ill explain on the trainride ov-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;suddenly, the air is broken by a shout.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;EVERYPONY BACK ON THAT TRAIN!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everyone, instantly, stares up at the sky, as a Griffin comes nearly crashing down onto the train station.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Clearly heavily injured, she get back onto her feet as the Conductor and many other rush to her aid.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This stirup gets more peculiar as more and more griffins start landing, many rushing directly onto the train.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;whats going?!&quot; the Conductor nearly screams as he worriedly looks around as more and more griffns show up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, suddenly, it happens.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;not one, but many raors echos across the land.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everyone stops and stare up the mountain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Manticores, Goats, and other things you simply couldn't recognize stood there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;All of them however, seemed...wrong. Like the 'zombie' manticore from before.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;THAT, Conductor, is whats wrong! NOW GET EVERYONE ONTO THAT TRAIN AND GET US OUT OF HERE!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;in a flash, everything becomes chaos.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gilda, as terrified as everyone else, grabs and drags you into the train, 'Charla' close behind, clearly worried but trying to keep her composure.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Within seconds, the train is nearly full, griffins pushing and pulling to try and get on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You claw your way to a window as you hear more roars.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking on in utter, pure terror, you see the monsters rushing down the mountain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Closer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Closer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Til suddenly, something swooped down and slashed at one of them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then another, and another.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Several griffins it seems, were trying to fight the things off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But they were barely slowing them down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Worse, already you saw one or two get swatted out of the sky.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't see where they landed, but considering everything, its not surprise they never rose again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But, just like that, suddenly, you are yet again on your ass as the train suddenly lurches to life.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, speakers pipe up, the conductors voice coming through over the chaos insisde the cart.&quot;Hang onto your seats everypo- everyone! This trains going fast and its not stopping til were all safe!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It take awhile, but finally, things calm down, everyone's found a place to sit, and the trains left the station far behind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Most sit in silence, others whispers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, on the other hand, are trying to control your breathing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you snap, again.</span><br />&quot;What....what just happened!?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It appears, that...thing, we met in the mountain was not just a simple freak of nature...&quot; Charla pipes up, turning her head from the window.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wait...you guys MET one of those....things, before!?&quot; Gilda says as her attention swerves over and focuses on you two.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, one. We didn't know it was part of a...pack. Or army more like, from the looks of things.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Army?&quot; a Griffin suddenly says from a different seat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This is when you realize most of the traincart has suddenly turned its attention on your little corner.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily, Charla seems quite good at keeping her composure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, those certainly weren't natural, and with such variety in such numbers one can only assume someone...or thing, sent them this way. It IS the only land bridge to Equestria and the Crystal Empire.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Crystal Empire?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Not now.&quot; She says as yet again you have a claw shoved in your face, tow which this time you push it away for once.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the Cart starts to fill with more and more noise as everyone starts speculating and worrying you Turn to your Companions and, surprisingly even to you, grab both of them and get them to face you.</span><br />&quot;Look, Ok? I dont expect you to know what those things were, but I need some answers. Where are we headed? Whats Equestria? What are ponies? Any other sentient races I should know about? Whats the Crystal Empire? wh-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Alright alright stop talking!&quot; Gilda grumbles as she actually, physically covers her ears. &quot;Your like that damned pink pony slow the hell down.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Crossing your arms, you raise an eyebrow.</span><br />&quot;Well then, better get talking instead.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Train tugged along for hours, as the air and landscape slowly became that of a cold tundra.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You listened carefully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As Gilda and Charla Explained a bit about the world to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the Griffins talked about the sudden attack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You absorbed as much of it as you could, but it was just so...different.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And most of it made no sense.</span><br />&quot;So...really? They control the sun and moon?<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gilda sighed. &quot;Yes. Again, they control the Sun and Moon, and Cadence rules the Crystal Empire.&quot;</span><br />&quot;So...does that mean she controls love?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What? No, I mean, im pretty sure she doesn't, that would be stupid.&quot;</span><br />&quot;....And....ok nevermind, sure. Stupid.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly Charla spoke up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, how else would things be done? Something has to move them, yes?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel your mouth hang open as your words catch in your throat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;IF what they were saying was true, or well, thought to be true, you had a strong feeling that trying to explain stars and gravitational fields might not end very well.</span><br />&quot;Yeah...something has to. Just...well it doesn't matter. Things are clearly different here then back home, ill just have to....find a way to accept that.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, before things could get much more awkward, the Speakers piped back up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This is your conductor. We will be Arriving in the Crystal Empire in just under Thirty minutes. Im sorry to say, but due to the...conditions, of everyone here, no one will be allowed off the train until everything is sorted out. The train will also be going no further unless instructed. &quot;I...hope this is not a major inconvenience, but Im sure everyone understands.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, the Train fell into Silence once again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;nothing but the thump as its wheels turned upon the tracks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your gaze wandered out into the snowy abyss outside the window.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Memories, long forgotten, flooding back from a place you might never see again.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey, Anon Mous, Look at THAT one!&quot; His brother said as he pointed at another overly decorated house, Christmas lights covering ever inch of it.</span><br />&quot;Pff, thats just tacky. Who the hell-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Language dear.&quot; his mother, sitting in the back, pipes up.</span><br />&quot;Ah, sorry mom.&quot; Anon Smiled back, before looking down the road again as he drove them along.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I do wish you two wouldn't be so hard on people, let them have their fun. I dont see the problem with them liking the holidays so much.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah. Its not that mom, its just not our thing. We aint saying it to their faces, and we wouldn't, ever.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, I suppose thats ok...&quot; she said back to his brother.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anons mind fluttered off again, from one memory to the next, the rhythmic sounds of the train drowning out the world.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was rushing out, into the snow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was falling thickly, the wind sweeping.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As he fumbled and pushed at the snow covering his car, his anger got the better of him and he screamed, kicking at the snow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Anon, Please! Just come back inside! Just lets talk about this!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Turning quickly, he sneered as his mother, standing in the thick snow, heavily under dressed for such weather.</span><br />&quot;Fuck off you goddamned WHORE. What is there to talk about? You fucking Cheated on him! Your fucking divorcing him! You think im going to forgive you? To take your side?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Anon...Please...things..hadn't been right between us for awhile...I...I Shouldn't of done that to him, b-&quot;</span><br />&quot;Fuck. Off.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, he ripped open his car door and got inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He wasn't sticking around for this shit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not on goddamned Christmas.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, Gilda was poking at his shoulder, knocking him from his stupor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey, Hey Dweeb! The trains arrived. Probably best to get ready, wherever they send us.&quot;</span><br />&quot;...Right.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Standing up, He took one more look outside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He hated snow. He used to love it, but life wasn't kind. It didn't let you love, or like things, without finding a way to turn it sour.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took nearly two hours, but finally things got rolling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From what was gathered, and area had been set aside for the griffins, who, to their merit, had agreed more or less as a whole to help in any way they could.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The train quickly took off for this 'Equestria', dropping almost all its carts so as to get there faster.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It Was assumed if help was going to be given, they were to pick up new ones there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As for Him and His companions, well...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As it turns out, when an unknown menace reveals itself the unknown bipedal gets the short end of the stick.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You there, you and your friends are to be escorted to the castle for questioning.&quot;</span><br />&quot;What? Why?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well...because....&quot;</span><br />The guard trailed off, scratching at the back of his helmet as his companion looked off to the side.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, we'll come along, best to not dilly dally on this.&quot; Charla piped up, motioning for the guards to lead the way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gilda Moaned, clearly not wanting to come, but went along anyways.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slumping off aswell, you cant help but look around at the commotion.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Guards and Ponies running this way and that, as they rushed to close off the insanely massive openings in the kingdom exterior.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He overheard some saying that the big. Glowing shield would probably be enough, while others mentioned that relying on it alone was insane.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon Agreed with the second set of ponies for sure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was insane to think, that from what some scouts had apparently seen, the snow and blizzards were barely slowing the monsters.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt; Some Said three days til they arrived.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Others were saying four or five.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;None of that was comforting to him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wait here.&quot; One of the guards said as they came to a stop under the enormous skyscraper of a tower.</span><br />&quot;Well, thats impressive...&quot; Anon said as he careened his neck upwards to take in its glimmering presence.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ive seen better.&quot; Charla said with a shrug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I sure haven't.&quot; Gilda piped in.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, the clopping of hooves on pavement fills the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A Unicorn surrounded by a squad of guards rushes up to your little group, looking as serious as you expected you would ever see these insanely colorful ponies look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Being plain white probably helped with that, reminded you of natural, non talking ponies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So this is the...Creature? And these are the ones that first saw the monsters?&quot; He said motioning with his hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Clearing your throat, you wave halfheartedly.</span><br />&quot;Human...im, uhh, a human. Anon Mous. Look, I know things look bad, but I swear I know nothing about whats going on.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ponies face softened a bit, but then realigned itself back to its stern, no nonsense attitude.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Unfortunately, that doesn't mean you might not have had something to do with this. Pleas,e follow me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He DOES have a point.&quot; Charla said with a smirk as you followed him, surrounded on all sides by guards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you started hurriedly climbing up many, many sets of stairs, you decided to use this time to at least try and get something accomplished.</span><br />&quot;Uh, I understand this is a terrible time, but im afraid im probably just as in need of your help as you what little I can give....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding backwards at you, he magically opened a large set of doors you ended up infront of.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ill try to help as best I can when we have time.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Right...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;as you all gathered around a large model of the city, the White stallion starts the interrogation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now, I need you to tell me everything you can. About them, and...you, I guess.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, not much to tell. After running into Anon here, we both were attacked by one of the Manticore Creatures. My skills, and admittedly, his quick thinking, tricked it into running off a cliff. As far as we were aware it was the only of its kind. I myself do not know where he came from, though id certainly be dead without him.&quot; Charla said, sending a smile in your direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now THAT worried you.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;I...cant add much more then that. I was going for a hike in the mountains where im from, when I got lost....next thing I know im...here. And I can tell you, this isnt my world at all. &quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment of thinking, The Stallion points his hoof at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Did you run into anything mirror like on your hike?&quot;</span><br />&quot;What? In the mountains? Err...no...I didn't. Why?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He sighed. &quot;Nothing, just a haunch. Something my sister went through. But it must be something else that brought you here...&quot;</span><br />&quot;Wait...what are you talking about? Has....something like this happened before?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Kinda the opposite, I think....&quot; he says, before shaking his head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Look, im really sorry, but it cant be a coincidence this happens when you appeared. Are you sure thats it? Nothing else you can remember?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For some reason, your mind starts racing back to your memories.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But shaking them out of your head, you shrug.</span><br />&quot;Sorry...just...nothing that would have anything to do with this.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He nods. &quot;Well, ill have my guards escort you and your friends to a room. Id like to keep you around, just in case you remember something, I hope you understand.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You did understand, that didn't mean you were happy about it though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As your lead out of the room, you quickly stop and turn around.</span><br />&quot;Err, sorry, but...I didn't catch your name...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards look at you blankly, but luckily the Stallion seemed to have caught on to your situation awhile ago.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Prince Shining Armor, but Shining will work just fine.&quot; he says and gives you a small smile and nod.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding back, you turn and leave with the Guards.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your lead down hallway after hallway, many busy as ponies rush to prepare for the coming horde of abominations.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you arrive at a door, and one &quot;of the guards opens for you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Were, er, sorry, but as of now this is the only one available. Well try to find each of you a room as soon as we can.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You thank the guard, While Gilda and Charla Grumble and follow you inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was more then big enough you suppose, though with only one bed you really did hope they found more rooms before the night came.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;suddenly, you hear whispering behind you, and turn to see Charla and Gilda nodding to one another, looking eachother directly in the eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something looked off about Gilda for a moment, but then you might just be tired.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im gona go see whats going on around here.&quot; Gilda speaks up.</span><br />&quot;Im pretty su- oh ok.&quot; You say as she zips out the window.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn to Charla, Who simply shrugs and walks up to the mirror.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, she transforms back into her true form and starts stretching.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;~Ooooohhhh it feels good to be out of that disguise, if only for a little while. Honestly, never feels right holding one for too long, I suppose I just start to miss my wonderful mug.&quot; she chuckles as she examines herself in a mirror.</span><br />&quot;Is...this a good idea? What about Gilda? Or if the Guards come back?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She rolls her eyes waving you off as she wanders around the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;My ears are more then sensitive enough to hear them coming.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your about to speak up, but your stomach suddenly growls.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hmm...Im quite hungry myself. Be back in a bit&quot; She says, before transforming into some sorta winged pony and hopping out the window herself.</span><br />&quot;Wait but.....fucking hell....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no idea what had gotten into them, but as you look at what food Gilda packed, you almost think about climbing out it yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They looked like mulched rock and...maybe fish? Mashed into spheres.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You supposed it wouldn't hurt to ask the guards....</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Of course, when there is surprisingly no guards outside your door, this complicates things.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This also leaves you in a awkward situation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;are you supposed to stay? Technically they never said that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But coming back to find all three of you gone might raise some suspicions.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Plus you were about eighty percent sure those fucking bitches expected you to cover for them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking down at the horrifying fish-Rock in your hand though....</span><br />&quot;Fuck it all, I don't even know if this is qualifies as food!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Tossing it into the room, you close the door and head down the hallway, hoping to meet someone who can point you in the direction of a kitchen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It had been way too long since you had eaten anything you would call food.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wander down corridor after corridor, Never able to catch anyone, though you do see a guard here or there, they look extensively busy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Bothering them now would probably not be the best idea.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, you somehow end up walking past what must be the throne room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This stops you in your tracks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sitting up high above a crowd of guardsand ponies, sits a pink...Alicorn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That is what they had called them right?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This one was....Princess Mi Amtilitore Calecdence?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wait no you are pretty sure that was not right.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly start walking along.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While she and what she was doing was certainly eye catching, you would prefer not to draw any attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You. Human.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fuck this gay ass world and all these gay ass ponies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Turning around to the guard, you wave.</span><br />&quot;Err....yes sir?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What are you ding wandering around here, the princess is very busy and does not need distractions.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cough, and shrugging with a awkward grin, you answer.</span><br />&quot;Im...looking for the kitchen actually...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He blinks, then sighs and starts walking.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This way then.&quot;</span><br />&quot;OH, uhh, thanks!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Just hurry, ive got things to do.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Right, right, sorry.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It takes another few minutes, but sure enough you reach the kitchen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard simply nod ans leaves before you can even thanks him, so you decided you best open the doors and see whats cooking.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;whats cooking, it pure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;unadulterated.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chaos.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You! Fetch more carrots from the pantries! You! IF you Burn those loaves I will personally chop you up and feed you to the troops yourself! And YOU!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You suddenly have what appears to the the head chef, a muscley, Dark Green, Red maned Stallion, shoving his hoof right up in your face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Grab a apron and hat and get to work you freeloading newbie.&quot;</span><br />&quot;wh-what?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;he grabs you and pushes you to an empty station.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No one enters my kitchen and does not work! Now peel those potatoes, we need more soup, MORE SOUP!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nearly scream as he does, as he seems to be foaming at the mouth as he yells soup over and over again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, you get to peeling, too afraid of this madpony to wonder why he think you would be here to work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spend hours, though getting to sneak some food here and there and sample the soup solves your hunger problems more or less.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Apparently from what you could get out of the other cooks, they were trying to stock up on some things, afraid that the beasts might cut them off from supplies from Equestria, even if they could hold them back from the city.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were surprised by how little any of them asked about what you were or why you were here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Must be one open minded society you guessed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, Hours later, The chef releases you for a break, though you of course had no plan to come back as you slip out with a loaf of bread and some boiled potatoes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you weren't getting paid you were getting more food you thought.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you Make your way back to where you expect your room to be, you end up rounding a corner right into Shining Armor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He Skids to a stop and you jump back a way to avoid him yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon? What are you doing HERE?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look around. It looks just like every other hallway to you.</span><br />&quot;To be honest, I thought this was going to lead back to my room....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He Sighs, but collects himself quickly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, it just so happens I was looking for you, please, follow me.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, &quot;as he rushes forward.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You would prefer not to run with your hands full, but it looked like he wasn't going to slow down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel worried though, as you think you might recognize this direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sure enough, you are right back to the throne room, though now it has been emptied out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Instead, to your horror, you see THREE more of these Alicorn types, aswell as Princess Cadenlen or whoever from before.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were a few other ponies and unicorns and such, and your friends had apparently been found and brought.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gilda was talking to some Rainbow maned Pegasus, while Charla was idly sipping from a teacup off on her own.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As all eyes turn towards you and Shining, you Feel the smile across your face is most likely the least convincing smile in the history of smiles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Alright, hes here now.&quot; Shining says as he motions for you to follow him to the table.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you follow, trying to remain sane as you realize this is one important set of ponies from what you have been told.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hello Anon, I am Princess Celestia of Equestia, and this is my Sister Luna, My Niece Cadence, and Princess Twilight Sparkle and her friends.&quot; The Big, White one says as she motions to them with her wing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont know if you should bow or what, so you simply weakly wave.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im sure this is a lot for you to take in, but we have some new information we felt you needed to be here for.&quot;</span><br /><br />&quot;Oh...ok, I appreciate bringing me here then?&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now, we have recently picked up a large magical disturbance from....here. Seem familiar?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look at the map laid out before all of you, but you really can only guess what is what.</span><br />&quot;Im...no, not really....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It is the mountains where you reportedly came from. Currently, something very powerful is casting very powerful magic from there, and we do not know why.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We assume of course, that it has much to do with the horde of creatures on their way here now.&quot; The one named Luna adds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod weakly, not sure what this has to do with anything.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;As you might guess.&quot; Celestia says, &quot;We believed your presence here might have something to do with what was going on...we now think it is the opposite.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Huh?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;we believe what ever is casting this magic brought you here, on purpose or accident we do not know.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly turn back to the map ,your eyes locked on the mountain.</span><br />&quot;So...my only chance back home...might be at the heart of this all?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Were afraid so...&quot; The Purple Alicorn, Twilight adds as she joins the group with her friends.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply stare at the map, unsure of what this all meant.</span><br />&quot;So....what am I here for then?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look up at their faces, a mix of worry, sadness, and concern among all of them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well....you see....&quot; Twilight says, a very unconvincing grin across her own face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We were hoping you would be willing, not alone of course, to journey there and try and figure out, and stop, whatever is going on.&quot; Celestia says plainly and to the point.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your head whips up in her direction so fast you audibly hear it.</span><br />&quot;WAT.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but notice all eyes are on you, many looking very worried and concerned now, though Celestia stood stoned faced above you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you feel silence coming on ,you decide you aren't gonna sit by while no one says or does anything.</span><br />&quot;Im really not sure what or who you think I am, but I can assure you I am not some sorta hero. I dont see how anyone would make it through all those monsters without an army to back them up.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Which is why, of course, you will be going around the army.&quot; Celestia says, a small smile appearing on her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you blink, as she points towards the map again with her hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We plan to send you and some others by sea. It appears there is little guarding the mountain itself, most being sent forth for whatever purpose they have.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you look down at the sea, not really sure how you feel about that.</span><br />&quot;That...might work I guess...but it looks like the only ports a bit south, do we have enough time? How long can the defenses here hold out for us?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;All the ponies start mumbling among eachother, until Shining Armor speaks up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We should be able to hold for a week, maybe three, thanks to the supplies Equestria brought. If were able to get all the civilians south, at least.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Celestia nods at him, before turning back to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The look she gives you seems to be one of genuine concern, but you just dont really know.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It may truly be your only way home...&quot; She says.</span><br />&quot;I....Ill-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;suddenly, the doors burst open, catching everyone's attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Th-they're already here!&quot; the Guard says, attempting to catch his breath.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you can even turn around, the rooms exploded into chaos, Alicorn and pony rushing this way and that, orders being yelled.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A magical Aura Suddenly starts pulling you in one direction as you, Charla, Gilda, and many others are lead...somewhere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We have to get you to the train before its too late!&quot; the Yellow Unicorn says as you attempt to get back onto your feet and run yourself.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;I..I can run myself Sir!&quot; you say as you nearly hit your head yet again on a doorframe.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Stallion doesn't even talk as he sets you down ,then continues leading your group down the castle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This doesn't make any sense though,&quot; he mumbles to himself, &quot;they weren't moving nearly fast enough, even if the storms had died down...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Maybe they wanted us to think them slow.&quot; Charla suggests, making the Unicorn come to a sudden halt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Only seconds later this has cause everyone following him to slam into eachother creating a pile of people groaning in pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As everyone quickly gets back on their feet, the Unicorn turns to Charla, Fear clear across his face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If that is true, then we have horribly underestimated the enemy.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly he turns back around and leads you down the last set of stairs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What lies below makes your heart drop.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The once open streets of The Crystal Empire were full of Ponies, Both civilian and Guard, trying to go one way or the other.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Griffins and pegasi filled the sky, trying to avoid each other as they went wherever they thought they must.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;M...MAKE WAY, M-ooof!&quot; Your Yellow Escort says, trying to push itn othe crowd but getting knocked down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;IT was all the guards with you could do to pull him out before he was trampled.</span><br />&quot;This is....oh dear god.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly point over the crowds heads, though your not sure how many others can see over it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt; Down one of the massive paths of the Empire, you can already see Guards at the ramshackle Barricades fighting, Pegasi and Griffin hovering over it trying to stop the few ones that could fly or leap high from getting over.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't exactly tell who was winning, but if only one of them got past...</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Charla, hows that wing of yours?&quot; &quot;Gilda pipes up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, I dont think I could carry anypony, but I could fly...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gilda nods, and the Yellow Unicorn and guards nod aswell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You however, are too transfixed on the fight to notice, until suddenly Gilda has you in her claws, the Unicorn in the other.</span><br />&quot;Wha, huh?!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Dont squirm so much you imbecile, this isnt as easy as it looks.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you, Gilda, Charla, and the Unicorn make your way over the crowds heads, you notice nearly every street is under attack, save for the two eastern most ones, and one to the south.</span><br />&quot;Thats...not good.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No, no it is not...&quot; the Unicorn adds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you get to the train, your heart sinks further.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The thing is already Tooting its horn, so over full even the roof is covered in griffins.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Dammit, we might be able to squeeze into the Conductors Booth...&quot; Gilda says.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you land, ponies rushing to get out of your way, you shout, the train already starting to lurch forward.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Ponies were screaming for it to stop.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Others trying to jump onto it, but with little if nay space left, most missed their mark.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Grimaced as some fell under the tracks, as Gilda forced you onto your feet and pushed you towards the front, getting ever faster.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luck was on your side though, as someone apparently recognized the Yellow unicorn inside the Front, and the door swung open, the Conductor motion for you to quickly jump in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With flight on your side, it worked out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After catching your breath, you could not help but look out, staring at all the ponies left behind as the Train rushed along.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, best settle in I guess....&quot; The conductor says as he looks over his controls, wiping tears from his eyes as he yells back for the ponies working the furnace to give it all they had.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, that was certainly close.&quot; Charlas says, looking out the window at the snow covered landscape.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You're telling me,&quot; Gilda said, yawning and leaning against the wall.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You keep staring out at the ever shrinking city.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't even hesitate.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Left, just like that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You barely notice you are holding your breath, until your forced to take a big breath and slump down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;after a bit of silence,e the Unicorn speaks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I...Im Sunburst, we never had a chance to be formally acquainted...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He, slowly, Holds out a hoof.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You reach out and give it a slow shake.</span><br />&quot;Anon Mous....thanks for the help, not sure why you did it though...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He blushes a bit, shrugging.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Orders mostly, ill admit. Though id have helped you either way if I could've.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You give a nod and a thanks, before simply looking up at the ceiling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Time seems to go by slowly, as you sit there, mood glum.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But then, next thing you know, you're slamming into the roof of the Train and your world goes black.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Cold.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That is all you feel.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then ,as a Roar howls over the heavy wind, your eyes shoot open.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly, Agonizingly slowly, you get up onto your knees, squinting into the Cold stormy air around you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you wipe some blood out of your vision, you catch a glow off ahead of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Step by Step, You make your way to it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The entire train it seems, or at least as far as you can see down the line, has been knocked over.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;bodies and blood lay around you, though you think you hear some moans here and there, you couldn't pinpoint them if you wanted.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The light was the burning coal, spilled out across the knocked over engine room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You grimace as you see the Conductors leg sticking out from under what should've been the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then ,you hear it, another roar, closer then ever.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly ducking back into the Train, you notice Sunburst sprawled across the new floor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily, his chest is breathing, but hes other knocked the hell out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No sign of anyone else you note, a the roar comes closer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;IT was then, you notice a familiar image out in the snow, limping along.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Black, tall, with a splash of green.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you feel the train rock as something down the line pushes against it, you make a hasty decision.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Prying the Train handle from its perch, easier when its already almost broken off, you rush back int the stormy winter nightmare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Why you were doing this for her, you really were going to have to decide later.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Grimacing as the cold chilled you to the bones, you were almost upon her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You refused to yell however, as even if she would hear you over the wind, you didn't want anything else to.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you catch up, putting you hand down on her back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She of course, Kicks you. Hard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A smart move, considering everything, but your stomach says otherwise.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As a green horn is shoved in your face, you cough out a raspy hello.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;..A...Anon?&quot; She says, completely take by shock.</span><br />&quot;H-Hi to you too...&quot; you say as you crawl back to your feet.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Without a word, you pick her up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She grimaces, but given her condition she was smart enough not to argue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However as she realizes where your headed, she tries to speak up, but you shove your hand over her muzzle as another roar is let out, luckily further away this time, not closer.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whispering, you give her an answer.</span><br />&quot;Were not gonna survive a trek through this without some heat, were gonna need those coals, and hopefully for the weather to clear...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;she give you a look, but nods.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your not sure how long you could've lasted out there, but luckily you get back into the Train soon enough, setting Chrysalis Down next to the fire.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She freezes when she Sunburst squirms a bit, though he doesn't wake.</span><br />&quot;Cant you just transform if its such a problem?&quot; you say as you go over to check on him.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im afraid I don't have the energy...&quot; she quietly says.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;sighing, you shrug.</span><br />&quot;Ill keep him off your back then if you think hes going to actually do something, despite everything going on.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment she slowly turns to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He will.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You let out a grumble and wave your arms about.</span><br />&quot;Well then you're both Idiots. Were going to need everyone if were to make it out of here.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, you hear what you swear is a battle cry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly looking out, you see several shapes charging a much bigger ones off in the distance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't tell who was winning, but barely contain a shriek as you fall backwards to avoid a Massive....THING rushing past you to the battle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Train shakes all over, as every monster rushes to the fight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, with little time to think, you pick yourself up and rush over to Sunburst, ripping his cloak off of him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Mrwh-OOF!&quot; he says as that wakes him up as you spins onto his stomach.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis watches you intently as you wrap the Train Handle up in the Cloth, then light it in the coals.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Running up to Chrysalis, you hold it out to her.</span><br />&quot;This might be our only chance out of here. Im about to have to carry tow ponies, think you can handle this with you horn?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She smirks &quot;Of course.&quot; she say as she take it into her horns grasp.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly, you pick her up, then, step by step, get over to the still dazed Sunburst.</span><br />&quot;you ok?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I...where...my glasses...I...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As he starts to fall over,you curse and quickly scoop him up, wincing as you lift all that weight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Step by Step, you make your way out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Step by Step, you get further away from the sounds of agony as those thick headed fools get torn apart.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Step by Step, you get further and further into the unknown wastes before you.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You do not know how long you walked.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or how far.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually though, You feel your legs buckling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Each step harder then the last.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Already having to hold the dwindling torch, Chrysalis having passed out you think, you had way too much to carry in such conditions.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you fall to your knees, no idea where you are or how close you may be to someplace safe, you let your charges slid out of your grip into the snow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Staring blankly at the torch, you blink slowly, your mind unable to think clearly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then suddenly, a warm breath hit the back of your neck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thinking one of the beasts must've caught up to you, you close your eyes, ready for your end.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What is thing doing in Yak lands!?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Snapping back to reality, you slowly turn around, shocked to hear a voice.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Behind you was a massive, well, Yak.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And it didn't look happy.</span><br />&quot;I.....we....running...monsters.....help?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The yak takes a moment, but then nods, turning away and striding off into the snow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blinking, you look down at you hands, wondering if you had just had the most realistic hallucination you have ever heard of.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then passed the fuck out.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Waking up to the feel of fire and a warm blanket was amazing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yet like not so long ago, this jolts you fully awake, the environment wholly unrecognizable.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking to your left, you appeared to be on the ground next to an impressively big fireplace.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To your right, you saw, and heard, Chrysalis and Sunburst snoring, each in their own bed.</span><br />&quot;...Why am I the one on the ground?&quot; You say to the crackling fire.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Grumbling, you shakily get up onto your feet, wrapping the blanket tight around you as you peek out the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yaks, Yaks in hats everywhere, and not one of them seemed to know what an indoor voice was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With little else to do, you head out of your hut and into the Yaktown.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You get a few odd looks as you wander around, but thankfully no one tries to bull you over or something worse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, one Yak walks up to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You, Creature, come with me.&quot; it says, motioning towards, of course, the biggest building around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding, you follow the Yak to its shack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you enter the large Wooden Hut, you cant help but feel in awe.</span><br />&lt;not anywhere near as big or shiny as the Palace in the Crystal Empire, but something about the way it didn't feel like it was trying to blind you really connected with your tastes.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Insides sat many yaks, with one sitting up high on a throne, giant fires on either side of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You. Creature. Why you bring ponies to Yak lands?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Straight to the point with these guys.</span><br />&quot;Well, the Crystal Empire was under attack, and then the Train was too. I just kinda...Ran in a direction with them, hoping for the best.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrug meekly, not sure what else there was to really say.</span><br /><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The yaks talk amongst those in the shack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A bit later, they all start nodding, before turning to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yaks want help you and ponies, but yaks not know how. Yaks return Creatures weapon until yaks can help more.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Weapon?<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Look on in surprise as a yak walks up and spits a now somewhat gooey train handle into your hands.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They actually took the time to drag that thing along with you and the others.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were utterly dumbfounded, but a bit touched.</span><br />&quot;Th....thanks....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;NOW, Creature, tell yaks more about you, and how yaks might help ponies!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, scratching your chin as you shake the yak spit off your 'weapon'.</span><br />&quot;Well, im a human, Aon Mous, nice to meet ya. And as for helping us out, I do have a few ideas.....&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You are Chrysalis, Queen...former Queen, of the changelings of the badlands hive.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And the past few days has been terrible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As You Yawn and stretch under the heavy wool blankets, you wince as you flop off the bed after your leg give out, much too injured to put any weight on.</span><br />&quot;Confound it all!&quot; You spit out into the warm air of the hut.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Forcing yourself back to your feet, despite the pain, you take in your surroundings carefully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In another bed that blasted Unicorn was softly snoring away, and the blanket and pillow near the fireplace most likely was where Anon Mous had slept, though where he was himself you could only start to guess.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A strange creature, that...human.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;IT was clear he did not trust you, but yet he seemed to blindly try to keep you alive.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well, everypony alive he could, you suppose.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't help but snort in anger.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His oddity had presented a wonderful opportunity to get in a position for revenge, yet the chaos caused by those abominations had ruined everything.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now, you simply had no other option for survival but to see where this all lead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As your stomach lurches in pain, you hiss.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Drawn to the smell of the Unicorns love, for his fellow ponies, his kindom, yadda yadda, this and that, you lick you lips.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He HAD just, probably, lost everything he cared about...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hardly suspicious if he acts a bit...drained.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After sucking the pitiful pony dry, you sigh as you stretch out you leg, biting your lip as you hear the carapace and bones clicking back into place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You would have to watch how much energy you spent so quickly, but you had not been at perfect health in far too long to not indulge a bit.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With breakfast out of the way, you walk over and poke your head out of the hut, sniffing the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly pull back, gagging and heaving.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As if the smell of yak wasn't bad enough, the sheer amount of self aggrandizing, Self centered 'love' coming off the yaks was like smelling old scraps to a changeling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Edible, but to be avoided.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sighing, you get your composure back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Beggars could not be choosers, you decide, and holding your head high, step out into the town.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The yaks give you some stares here and there you ignore, but it appears they know little to nothing about changelings, a ignorance you were happy to let them keep.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took a bit of Transforming, but you manage to get a few snacks out of some unsuspecting fools.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With your hunger settled, you decide it would be in your best interest to find Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There wasn't much else to do actually, considering everything.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That is, until something catches your eye.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Two yaks wandering behind a building on the far side, looking horrible suspicious.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you of course, were a master of what looked suspicious.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With curiosity peaked, you zip along into the shadows, not one against a bit of eavesdropping.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Scouts say Crystal Empire barely holding last half of City, but King do nothing for ponies!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;the other yak snorted, kicking at the dirt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;King make deal with other pony, King say he cause this, and will send them after yaks if they help.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The other one snorted louder, grinding his teeth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;But yaks make promise with ponies, yaks yak of their word! King making yaks into liars! Yaks strong, yaks no need deals with evil ponies!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak agree, and yak think many more do, but king still have support! And fighting other yaks only make us unable to help even yaks!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They both go back and forth, but you had gotten more then enough info out of them.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you buzz away, you cant help but feel your heart racing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no idea who the yaks could've possibly made a deal with, but if they were claiming to be responsible for those things, then this place was not safe.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were about to simply leave on your own, let no 'companions' slow you down, when you round a corner straight into Anon.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Anon, had a bad habit of ending up sprawled out on the ground.</span><br />&quot;Er....hello Chrysalis. Fancy meeting you here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Queen, Queen Chrysalis to you, you daft creature.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding, you decide to risk your luck and gently push her off from on top of you.</span><br />&quot;Yes, well....hard to remember when one changes their name on a whim.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but smile as she rolls her eyes, getting back up on her feet, grumbling as she tries to regain her higher ten thou composure.</span><br />&quot;So....Good news! The Kings agreed to escort us into Equestria! Hopefully things are holding out there, and maybe whoever is in charge there right now can help us figure out what to do. Better then sitting up here freezing our asses off at least, right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You are caught off guard, as you swear, just for a moment, it looked like Chrysalis was worried about...something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If it did happen, she quickly hides it, though her eyes seem to be looking around more then usual.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That...hrm...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She sighs, cursing, before your suddenly magically being dragged.</span><br />&quot;What the heck?!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Blast it all, never let it be said I don't try and even scores human!&quot;</span><br />&quot;What? We have a score between us?....whos winning?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shut your yap as she sneers back at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever she was doing, you hardly had the strength to stop her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had asked the yaks for food, and they gave you hay, and once you had convinced them you needed fruits or vegetables, they gave you a couple of carrots.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were not exactly, satisfied, or full, and were beginning to wonder when you would not have trouble finding food.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To your relief, Chrysalis was taking you back to the hut you had slept in, so it couldn't be anything TOO drastically important she was so desperate to tell you about.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were about to be proven drastically wrong.</span><br />&quot;You're.... trying to trick me or something...right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis shrugs, staring at the fire from the bed before yawning.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I heard what I heard. If your feeble mind is too idiotic to think it is possible, then it is hardly my problem.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stare at the fire, having no idea what to think.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply didn't really trust her, but at the same time, if she was right....</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Mermph....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spin on the spot, bringing your Train Handle up and ready.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hello to you too....&quot; Sunburst says grumpily as he groggily gets up and to his feet, taking in the room with a squint.</span><br />&quot;Err....Sorry....&quot; You lower your weapon as Chrysalis chuckles.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;....Where are my glasses?&quot; Sunburst says sternly.</span><br />&quot;Oh....err....Somewhere in the wreckage of the train?&quot; you say with a weak smile.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...and my cloak?&quot; he says as he attempts to squint his way around the room.</span><br />&quot;It....kinda was used as a torch as I dragged us across the tundra.....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He stops, before taking a long breath.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well I dont suppose you could at least fill me in on whats going on at least?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Well, actually, me and C-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;you stop as you hear a mild whooshing sound, turning to see not Chrysalis, but quite the similar look Unicorn standing before you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Candle Shine. Anon here found we wandering about after the train was attacked. I thought I was fortunate to make it on, but alas....&quot; she whimpers a bit, which you cant help but grumble at.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst sighed, sitting down in front of the fire.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well pleased to meet you I suppose. Now, Anon, if you wouldn't be so kind?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well, someone had certainly slept poorly, though you couldn't exactly blame him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sitting down next to him, you sigh.</span><br />&quot;This...is gonna take a bit of explaining....&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst seemed to take it all in stride.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From the train to the Rescue and possible Betrayal.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well...at least the Crystal Empire might still stand a chance...&quot; he said, a slight smile coming ot his face.</span><br />&quot;Yeah, but it doesn't sound like we have much time, and if what Candle said is true.....well...we might not even survive a walk back...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Attempting to straighten his glasses, but remembering they aren't there, he gets to his feet, and turns to Chrysalis with an eyebrow raised.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;But our friend here already found us a ride, with or without the kings help.&quot;</span><br />&quot;She did?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I....well...that is a risky plan you have here Sunburst.&quot; Chrysalis says with a smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst nods. &quot;It is, but we dont have a choice. We simply dont have time to play politics.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Im...missing something.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis and Sunburst roll their eyes, in disturbing synchronization.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Those Yaks Candle Shine heard might be more then willing to help us on their own.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thats a big if...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;well, you could always carry us again, I wouldn't mind.&quot; Chrysalis says with a wink.</span><br />&quot;alright well lets go find them then!&quot; You say, quickly getting to your feet with a newfound excitement for this activity.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were willing to do many things.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Trekking through the snow while carrying two equines was not one of them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;well, uhh, lead the way.&quot; Sunburst says, getting up himself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a shrug, Chrysalis strides off the bed and out the door, not even waiting to see if you guys would follow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily, however blind Sunburst was, he could see well enough to follow her himself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As your group left into the chilly yak air, Sunburst suddenly nudges you.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Err....Anon?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Yea?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Look....im...im sorry for this morning...Just...With everything that happened, I just felt so angry....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wait....was he apologizing for his grumpiness?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He considered that angry?</span><br />&quot;Its fine. We've all been through shit we shouldn't ever have to. Id be more worried if you hadnt been miffed.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ri...right....&quot; Sunburst looked ahead, silence overtaking him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Somehow you felt he was not satisfied you were satisfied.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Chrysalis, Look around the crowd of Yaks carefully.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were never one to forget a form, Being a changeling queen it was impossible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But yaks were nothing like changelings, all looking so similar.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;So few details to tell them apart compared to your superior race.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you still had seen a few things you could look for, probably.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you spot one of them, sitting at a stand, mouth full of hay.</span><br />&quot;Over there.&quot; you point, before trotting along, Anon and that wretched Sunburst in tow.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, before you could make it to the table, another yak blocks the path.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;King would like to see Anon and friends.&quot; the yak says plainly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look to Anon and Sunburst, both with worry plain across their faces.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It seemed you would have to take care of this yourself, of course.</span><br />&quot;Well, id just love to but ah, you see....I need to freshen up?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;the yak jolts a bit, and blushes, but nods.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak bathroom over there.&quot; He points with a horn.</span><br />&quot;Splendid. Meanwhile Anon and Sunburst would be more then happy to go with you, of course!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Uh, yes! We Would be honored!&quot; Sunburst pipes in.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, You slink away as the yak leads them off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You are hardly surprised none have noticed your not exactly the same as before, they seemed a bit dull, these yaks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you hardly had a choice on where to get help from, a shame that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Walking up to the yak you are sure was the one you saw before, you get prepared for a conversation you knew was going to take awhile.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;Hello sir, enjoying your lunch?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;They yak finishes chewing and swallowing his hay, before turning slightly towards you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yea, hay good.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thats....great.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was going to be painful.</span><br />&quot;Well..&quot; Chrysalis said, looking around real quick, before leaning in to whisper in the yaks ear, &quot;Alright listen, I overheard you and your friend talking earlier, and me and my friends would like your help.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You eazesdrop on yak!? Yak no like eavesdropping!&quot; the yak said, though despite it still being loud as a bell it was quieter then they usually were, which was enough to not draw any attention to them.</span><br />&quot;...Yes, well, I do apologize, truly. It was an accident. I just....you see.....&quot; as Chrysalises body created tears on command, she sniffed, watching as the yak looked around quickly, unsure of what to do.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Uhh...yak forgive pony! Yak know things happen sometimes even when things not meant to! Yak ask pony to please not cry!&quot;</span><br />&quot;Y-you right...I...I should hold my chin up, despite....despite my home being under attack...a- and now your king might be tricking u-s...a...and..&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The yak was antsy, barely holding it together.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Honestly, some creatures were simply too east to manipulate, took the fun out of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak will try and help pony, but yak cant talk here. Meet yak where last yak talked soon.&quot;</span><br />&quot;O-ok...&quot; she said, giving him a weak smile as he walked off.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She smiled, on the inside of course.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No self respecting changeling queen would break character so easily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Trotting off, she went to meet her contact.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Meanwhile, Anon, was nervously trying to hold his shit together.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If Chrysalis was right, then this meeting could go very south very fast.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As they entered into the Kings sack full of yaks, Anon felt the mood was a bit...different.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was hard to tell with these yaks, but he was still pretty sure it felt much more serious.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak King thought on human plan, and while yak kings like it, he can not help as of now.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon was a bit surprised, all he had asked for really was transportation and maybe some supplies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps Chrysalis was right....</span><br />&quot;But we dont have time to travel on foot alone. The Crystal Empire doesn't have time to wait!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak king sorry, but yak king cannot risk his people. Storm season is here, and those beasts might be prowling. Yak king says you should stay til weather not so bad. Ponies smart, ponies always find way out of problem.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Er....even if that was true...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I cant sit by and do nothing while my home is under attack.&quot; Sunburst says as he steps forwards, &quot;If you wont help us, then we wont stay any longer. Id hoped the Yaks were better then to let their neighbors fend for themselves, but I guess I was wrong.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The yak kings stands up, snorting as he stomps his hoof hard enough to crack the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak King do what he must! If pony will not respect Yak choices, then pony free to leave!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And with that, Anon and Sunburst were, quite literally, pushed out of the shack, the door slammed behind them.</span><br />&quot;Well.....that went....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Terribly?&quot; Sunburst suggested.</span><br />&quot;I was gonna say better then expected actually, I thought he was gonna say we weren't allowed to leave at all.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh....well I suppose that would have been worse yes...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;shrugging, you motion forward.</span><br />&quot;Lets just find Candle Shine and hopefully take a ride out of here.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis sat waiting for the yak to show up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She didn't exactly have anything better to do then wait, which as she stifled a yawn, she realized said a lot about how things were going.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally though, the hulking thing showed up, his friend from before in tow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak and friend here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Friend say pony want our help. Dangerous to help Ponies now, Kings say no help for Ponies.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis took a moment to think.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If the king had said such, then they had in a sense been proven right.</span><br />&quot;Well, but you know the king is wrong on this, right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yak may think king wrong, but king still king.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sighing, Chrysalis let her lip whimper a bit, which clearly caught the yaks attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;But....king might forgive yaks if yaks help ponies....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The other one nodded. &quot;Yaks will help ponies. Meet yaks at night near back gate, yaks will be ready to help ponies then.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Oh, thank you, thank you!&quot; She said, giving them both a big hug before running off.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She fought the urge to roll in the snow til the smell was gone, but she had done worse before to keep up appearances, sadly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There were some disguises she had promised herself never to take again...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As she headed back towards their cabin, she saw Anon and Sunburst striding towards it aswell.</span><br />&quot;Well, it looks like things didn't go too well with the king. Luckily for you, I got us some help, were to meet them by the back gate once night arrives.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, thats good to hear, because the king made it pretty clear we weren't getting any from him.&quot; Anon shrugged out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst grumbled, leering backwards at the Kings hut.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You were right, he seems way too against helping us even a little, the bastard.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon whistled, clapping his hands.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Damn Sunburst, now THAT is getting angry!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst rolled his eyes and headed in the hut, Anon laughing as he went along with him.</span><br />&quot;Well, we have all afternoon for him to settle down now.&quot; Chrysalis said with a smile as she followed the two in.<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As everyone got settled, only the sound of the fire as Anon poked some life into it filling the hut, she sniffed at the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Impressively, Sunburst was recovering from this morning quite quickly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perhaps the stress was reminding him of what was 'important' to him or some other pony nonsense.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon, however, was still only a flicker to her tongue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A Creature of such repressed and desolate love as to put herself to shame.</span><br />&quot;So, Anon, since we have some free time....I was wondering....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes?&quot; He said turning an eyebrow her direction as he threw another log in the fire.</span><br />&quot;Well, I myself dont even know what you are, much less your story. Tell us about yourself!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wha? Yo-Err, ah, yeah....Things are going so fast my minds blurring about who knows what...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He turned, staring into the fire.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, Id like to know more too, if its not a problem for you.&quot; Sunburst added, give a smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon nodded, and sighing, turned around, sitting as he pulled the blankets tighter around himself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well...im not sure where to start with me, or with what...I work as a Simple Factory Mechanic. Nothing glorious but it was decent work...&quot;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Anon, Stare into Candle Shines, Chrysalises, Eyes as you give nonsensical, simple information about your life.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind however, Wanders, as the Crackling of the fire fills the corners of your consciousness...</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You took another small sip of your whiskey as the bar tunes hummed in the background.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Bartenders eyes were glued to the screen ,as some Christmas Float parade marched along from earlier in the day.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hardly notice the Bar doors open, but you do notice as your brother sits down next to you.</span><br />&quot;...Hey.&quot; You mumble out.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey...I...heard what happened......its....&quot;</span><br />&quot;Its shit. Shes shit.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He sighed, before patting you on the back, to which you couldn't help but smile a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He had always been there for ya, even if h was sometimes a knucklehead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Look man...She shouldn't of done it, And she shouldn't of said shit about it today....but.....Look I know its fucking shit, im not happy either....but I want you to come home. Listen just talk to her, im not saying you have to forgive her but shes still our mother man...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You scoff, waving his arm off your back.</span><br />&quot;And what about dad?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your brother side, and snapping to get the bartenders attention, ordered his own drink.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What about him?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink. Slowly, your head turns, confusion and anger building up inside of you as you met your brothers face as he accepted his drink.</span><br />&quot;What....what? Hes our dad....Hes not the one who fucked some other shithead.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;How do we know that? Dudes gone half the year on business. Fuck man where is he today? Japan? England? I dont know, do you?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel your Fist clenching your glass hard, but you sigh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your brother wasn't entirely wrong, but you still couldn't believe what he was saying.</span><br />&quot;His jobs the reason that bitch can afford to sleep around instead of having a job.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your brother slams his drink down on the table, turning from it to you, clearly miffed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Look man, I know your pissed but watch how you talk about her. You can glorify that man all you want but I cant remember one time he was here for more then a few weeks. Mom fucked up, but considering who she met I cant fucking blame her, at least he was around.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, your world goes quite.</span><br />&quot;What....are...have you met that bastard shes sleeping with!?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah, I have, and hes a great fucking guy.&quot; he says, taking a sip.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You don't even notice, but suddenly your on your feet.</span><br />&quot;How long? How fucking long have you known?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No brawls in my bar.&quot; the Bartender says, not even turning from the TV.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You reluctantly sit back down, though your sheering anger stays pained across your face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your brother turns back down towards his drink, shrugging.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Forgiveness isnt a bad thing to be able to give Anon.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Fuck.....God dammit fuck you....anything else you fuckers are hiding from me? Anything else you decided I didn't need to goddamned know?!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He shook his head know, and you take a long chug to finish off your drink.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon, just come home. I wasn't happy about it at first either, but just give it a chance.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Fuck that, and fuck both of you.&quot; You say as you get up, tossing a tip to the bartender as you head for the door.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You freeze at your brothers next words.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Its us or him. You cant have both Anon.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wipe the tears from your eyes, and turning around, toss the glass you still had in your hand at your brother.</span><br />&quot;Get fucked to hell, both of you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The night was still cold, the wind still howling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't feel any of it.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you, Anon, snap back to reality, Chrysalis Staring, eyebrow raised, she Repeated her question.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What, exactly, is a car?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Outside your mind, you had been filling them in about this and that of the human world, not reliving moments best left forgotten.</span><br />&quot;Its like a carriage, but uses a device to move forward itself with the driver in control.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Fascinating!&quot; Sunburst say, fully entrenched in your conversation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Truly,&quot; Candle Bright says with a small smile, &quot;But I cant help but notice you haven't said much about yourself, not really.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hesitate, holding your breath as your mind raced.</span><br />&quot;Im....Just some bloke. Nothing interesting about me honestly.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, im sure you're selling yourself short.&quot; She responded, fluttering her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, your certainly not dull.&quot; Sunburst said, patting you on the back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He Looks at you, worry in his eyes as you wince from his hoof.</span><br />&quot;Look, uhh, were gonna be up all night, so....probably best if we all grab some sleep.&quot; You sa with a fake smile plastered across your face.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst and Candle Shine exchange shrugs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Good point...&quot;Sunburst says, as he gets up and goes to his own bad.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We can talk later I suppose.&quot; Candle says with another of those small smiles, before yawning and laying her head down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply turn around and put your own head down, staring blankly into the crackling flames.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes flutter shut, but your mind hardly rests.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A Hospital.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Years since the divorce.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your dad had taken it in stride, taking time off to spend with you and what little family didn't take his ex-wifes side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even before the Cancer hit, He seemed to age so much faster now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you didn't regret your decision.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was a good man, thats all you had ever seen him be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His wedding wing never left his finger.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not even as he lay in that damned bed, life draining out of him second by second.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sat, watching him breath in his sleep.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't know how much time you had left together...but you planned to spend as much of it as you could with him.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Snapping from your dream, you gasp for air as reality hits like a wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Night had arrived, and you, Anon, and Your companions Had a long night ahead of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Getting up, You tie a blanket or two around you, in hopes it would stay in place so you wouldnt have to hold them constantly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Reluctantly, you pick up your Train Handle and stuff it under your Makeshift parka.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A shitty weapon was better then no weapon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you nudge Candle Shine and Sunburst awake, you take a moment to peak outside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;All clear it seemed.</span><br />&quot;Well....now or never I guess....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn to them, both nodding along, and so you head out into the night.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was easy enough getting to the back gate.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now getting past the two massive Yaks guarding it...you had no idea on how to do that.</span><br />&quot;Please tell me those are conveniently the two you talked to Candle...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im afraid not. We will simply have to think of a way to draw them off.&quot; she said with a shrug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Maybe....we could make a noise or something?&quot; Sunburst said.</span><br />&quot;...There is no way that would ever work.....I mean....it wouldn't...right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You all exchange looks.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took a bit to come up with the best way to distract them, but eventually it came down to Candle and Sunburst floating some rocks up above each of the yaks heads.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Simply dropping them, the yaks of course hardly got injured, but instantly flew into a rage, rushing forward yelling about how whoever did that was going to be stomped.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slipping out of the shadows, you get to the gate.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Using her magic, Candle Shine slips the gate lock open, and as you pull it open for everyone to slip through, you take one last look at Yaktown.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You really weren't going to miss it at all.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you close the gate, you turn around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A little ways off, Four yaks were standing in near darkness.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you drew closer, you saw a large sleigh strapped to them, covered in some supplies.</span><br />&quot;Uh..hey, hi. Thanks for uhh, Helping us out and stuff.&quot; you say as you draw close to them.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding, the Lead Yak motions to the Sleigh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ponies on, we go fast, no stopping. Straight to Equestria.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You are kinda disturbed as Candle gives hi ma hug and thanks him ,before joining you and Sunburst on the sleigh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a pretty big thing, though with a decent chunk taken up by supplies there was not really any room to move.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the sleigh suddenly lurches forward, you quickly take a set, wrapping up in more blanket they had provided back there to guard from the howling night winds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;its gonna be a long night...&quot; Sunburst says, barely audible over the wind.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It took nearly a day and half.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But sure enough, as the sun was high above, you see grass appearing in patches here and there through the snow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually, the Yaks come to stop on a hill.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yaks go no further, Sleigh not meant for grasslands.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding you hop off the Sleigh, thanking them as you take in the expanse of green laying before you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully the Yaks had given you some supplies.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Though no map.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the yaks turn and head back into the frozen north, you turn to Sunburst.</span><br />&quot;So now what?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Im sorry?&quot; He says, looking mighty confused.</span><br />&quot;Well....where to? Were here to get help right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, well...yes but...I suppose I had not thought of that...specifically....I suppose Canterlot would be best?&quot; he says, mumbling more to himself as he looks around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, Ignoring your poor planning, I believe I know which direction to go.&quot; Candle says, pointing down below.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking, you spot it too, some train tracks leading off into the distance.</span><br />&quot;Well...Its something.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Actually, the tracks should lead us directly to Canterlot! Perfect find Candle Shine!&quot; he says, a skip in his step as he motions for us to get moving, &quot;I cant wait to get a new pair of glasses, never knew just how horrible it was without them.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Simply follow with a nod.</span><br />&quot;I just hope things stay on track for once.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;....Was that a pun, dear?&quot; Candle says with a smirk.</span><br />&quot;God dammit it was wasn't it?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As Your Companions Chuckle at you, you cant help but smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hopefully things could stay bright and cheerful for once.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The rest of the day went by fairly fast.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A bit of conversation here and there, but mostly you kept silent, simply taking in the landscape as you traveled along the tracks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As dusk fell though, you were forced to make camp.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you grilled some carrots over a fire, Sunburst spoke up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Should be just about another days journey... I think. Hard to take in the landscape, heh...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Just under a day, actually.&quot; Candle pipes up.</span><br />&quot;Right...&quot; You say, pulling your carrots out of the fire to inspect them.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So...Candle....Anon, sorta, told us a bit about himself, but I dont think id seen you around the Crystal Empire much. Whats your story?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Candle Shine Shrugged, looking up at the sky.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I was simply visiting. Not a good visit, I must say. Im an accountant from Baltimare actually, though it can be dreadfully boring,&quot; she chuckled, &quot;Though with this being the alternative I dotn think ill be complaining about it anymore.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst laughed, &quot;Yeah, I understand that feeling...So what was the reason? Vacation? Family?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;simply vacation, thank Celestia for that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon looked between the two ponies, scratching at his chin.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something had been itching at his mind a bit since he had started learning about this place.</span><br />&quot;So....is Celestia like, you guys god here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Both ponies turned to him, confused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im sorry....a what?&quot; Sunburst spoke.</span><br />&quot;You know...a god? God? Invisible all powerful being that created everything? I mean, as the legend goes that is.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That sounds ridiculous Anon.&quot; Sunburst said sternly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Laughing, anon shrugged as you scarfed down one of his carrots.</span><br />&quot;Maybe, but thats what people think where im from. We don't have, ah, Alicorns that do things for us, at least not in physical form. So people say some god or the other made and controls everything from a distance.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Why in the world would a Being so powerful EVER stay in the background?&quot; Candle Shine asked.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah, certainly they could do much more good in person.&quot; Sunburst added with a nod.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon practically fell over laughing, even going as far as to slap his knee, drawing confused looks from the others.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;Im not sure how Equestria does things ,but on Earth those with power have no obligation, and often dont, help anyone but themselves. Gods similar, leaves us to our own devices, if he exists that is.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst outright gasped, while Candles interest simply seemed quite peaked.</span><br />&quot;Bah, but enough about home, we haven't heard YOU talk about yourself Sunburst.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well yes but...&quot; He lowered his hoof, grumbling a bit. &quot;Im nothing special, just a unicorn verse, but not well gifted, in magic. By pure luck I came to be employed by the Royal family as the Royal Crystaller.&quot; he finished with a shrug, poking at the fire with a stick.</span><br />&quot;Well, I guess we all are a bit bland then.&quot; You laugh.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst smiled a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Just a bunch of bland, plain ponies trying to help stop something far above our skills.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise a carrot to that, before munching it down.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the moon rises high, you hear a sigh from Sunburst.</span><br />&quot;Something up?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The moon...&quot;he wipes some tears from his eyes, sniffling a bit. &quot;IF the moons still rising then that means the Princesses are still alive...means homes still alive...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Oh Right, the princess supposedly control such things.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For once, you hoped that was actually true, but your own understanding of nature made it hard to put faith in something like that, no matter how different things were here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, im gonna go catch some sleep. Ill see you guys in the morning.&quot; Sunburst said with a yawn, turning tail and heading off to his tent.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And how about you?&quot; Candle asked, giving you a smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you let your eyes wander from her to the fire, you gave your own smile.</span><br />&quot;I think im gonna stay up a bit longer. Always was a bit of a night person back home.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She nodded, and so silence fell over the camp.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Chrysalis, were growing hungry yet again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The hunger of a changeling was never truly satisfied, but it could be sedated quite well given enough love.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, with only one pony around to take it from ,you hardly had a good source of it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon was not even worth the effort.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Never before had you seen a creature so closed off, no matter how he tried to act on the outside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe, if you could only figure out why he was like this...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Listening, you waited, til finally you heard Sunbursts snoring.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With Anon awake you couldn't feed off what love had built back up within him, so you needed a distraction if nothing else.</span><br />&quot;So, Anon, what DID happen to you back home?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...What do you mean? &quot; Anon said, scratching at his head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rolling your eyes, glare at him in annoyance.</span><br />&quot;Please, my species has a natural, ah, talent, for sensing emotions. And you, Anon, are but a hollow, loveless shell pretending everything alright.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Smugly you stare him down, daring him to say otherwise, as he blankly stares back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, for just one moment, you see an anger in his eyes, one so deep you feel your heart race for a moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And just like that, it faded, as his eyes drooped down to the fire.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;....My family Betrayed me. Plain and simple.&quot; He says, before shrugging and poking at the fire. &quot;It was a long time ago now, Taught me everything I needed to know about life.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;His head shot up, meeting your gaze again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anyone ever tell you love and loyalty are to be trusted, don't listen. Lies as easy to tell as any other.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes stay locked for what feels like an eternity.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Despite everything, you, Queen of the Changelings, feel an....understanding, with Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly and without warning, you understand the truth.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was a lost cause, deserving of his hatred for the world.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Blinking out of your stupor, you stare down at the fire.</span><br />&quot;I...Understand, more so then you could fathom human.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You take in the fire, as images of HIM flash in your mind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Teeth clenched, you hiss in frustration and a hatred so deep you could not name it.</span><br />&quot;I too, was betrayed by my family. But it matters not, those responsible will find that I tend to get my revenge, sooner or later...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Silence falls over you two, nothing but the crackling of burning logs between the two.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, Anon whistles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well damn....how unlikely is that? Two bastards, both betrayed by everything they loved, Stuck together as the world falls to shit. It like the fucking universe decided we had to take on all the fucking misery it could dish out.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Spitting anon tossed his stick into the fire, and threw out a few colorful words in nothings direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle, Letting your gaze fall upon the night sky above.</span><br />&quot;Maybe so, but I plan to give every bit of that misery back to it. Damn be them all, they left me with nothing else to strive for.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon nodded, staring up at the sky himself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your attention snaps back to him though, as, for just a moment, you swear you felt something, a spark of love perhaps, but you couldn't be sure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, all you smell off of him is his hatred, his stone cold exterior pushing the world away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you couldn't help but admire it a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well...i think im gonna catch some sleep myself. It was...actually nice talking to ya, C- Queen Chrysalis.&quot; He said with a smirk.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rolling your eyes ,you waved him off, to which he complied.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Needing to eat, you decide to enjoy the fire til he was asleep.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Anon, toss and turn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No sweet dreams, none.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stand over your dads coffin, tears welling in your eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That damned bitch had suddenly come back, and sued to squeeze every cent she could out of him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was doomed, but he couldve lived a bit longer if you had been able to afford it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking around the empty church, you cant help but frown further.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Only his brother had showed up, stand droopy eyed next to you, smoke hanging lump in his mouth as he stared down.</span><br />&quot;Where...the hell is everyone?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Shrugging, his brother simply said &quot;Everyone else took yer mothers side I guess.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Damn them then.&quot; You say, letting your eyes fall back on your father.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Heh, yeah, damn them all...&quot; He said, pulling out and examining his cigarette.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Fucking bastards all of them, but damn, hate the man fer what he did, but he certainly knows how to give a good impression.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, you hear the church doors open behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Both of you turn, and your fathers brothers frown deepens as a man enters.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Speaking of the devil...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your jaw drops.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There was no way....right?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Of all people...the man who stole his wife?</span><br />&quot;You....your kidding right.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Nope&quot; He say, sticking his cig back in his mouth, giving it a long draw. &quot;Want me to take care of it?&quot;</span><br />&quot;...No, I need to do this.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sure, just dont get arrested, he wouldn't of wanted it fer ya.&quot;</span><br />&quot;....Thanks.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you march towards the man, standing respectfully, waiting as you approach, something starts to change in your dream.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The memory slowly fades, dissipating like a cloud before you.</span><br />&quot;No no damnit what?!&quot; You yell, looking around as suddenly, inexplicably, you are in a cozy meadow, somehow fully aware you are dreaming yet still fast asleep.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We are sorry to disturb thy dream, but they appeared ot be in such distress we could not idly watch.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn, and lo and behold, the Alicorn known as 'Luna' if you remember, floats down before you.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;What the hell? Did...you have something to do with this?!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Seemingly taken off guard by your anger, Lune simply nods.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We can enter, and affect dreams of all in Equestria. Thy...Thy were not wanting to finish thy nightmare, were you?&quot;</span><br />&quot;I....Damnit I don't fucking know!&quot; You say, kicking some flowers to release your anger.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking around, you curse under your breath, turning back to Luna more then miffed.</span><br />&quot;I dont want this for sure, for fucking godamned sure.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna clears her throat, looking around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;My powers can only influence thy dreams so much, when I tried to end your nightmare, Thy own mind went here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Grumbling, you look around, and concentrating, change things.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, the terrain changes, becoming a murky bog, the light dims from the trees above.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna grimaces as your both suddenly knee deep in muck, before using her powers, you assume, to give herself a patch of land above the muck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If thy are more comfortable in such an environment...&quot; She mutters.</span><br />&quot;Fuck comforts, what are you even doing here?&quot; You spit out.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After the dreams we were having, you were hardly in a mood for mind games.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, yes. We ourselves were simply resting. Things in the Crystal Empire have come to a standstill, the creatures surround us but after failing to break our lines for a third time appear to simply be waiting us out.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She sighed, looking you dead in the eyes with all the seriousness the situation deserved.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We simply do not have the strength to break through them ourselves. Thou MUST Find the osurce of this, and end it before supplies run out.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise an eyebrow, a few questions coming to mind.</span><br />&quot;Aren't Alicorns supposed to be pretty powerful? With so many of you, id suspect you could easily get through.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sighing, Luna Looked off into the distance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The Abominations are Not fully alive, Animated from some ancient magic even we do not know about. Who, or Whatever made them, Made them well and numerous. They absorb most magic shot at them to power their own horrid existence, requiring a large quantity to destroy, and they simply keep coming...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, unsure of what to say at that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thy must be careful. We were not expecting to be gone so long from our lands, and we fear from the dreams we have observed that something is going wrong in them.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thats....reassuring. Any more info on that maybe?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shakes her head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Look to a Unicorn named Starlight Glimmer in Canterlot, Twilight assured us she could keep things under control until we came back, though we didn't not intend for none of us to return or be so cut off...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod weakly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As far as you were concerned, you did not need this shit on top of everything else.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But, of course, here it was.</span><br />&quot;Ill..err....do what I can?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You must find it within you to do more then you think you can, the fate of Equestria, and perhaps everything, rests in your hands.&quot;</span><br />&quot;OH well yeah no- wait huh?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You panic a bit as the dream suddenly starts collapsing around you, Luna dissipating like smoke.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Gasping as you are suddenly, violently awake, you look around, hearing something but only feeling blood pound as your heart races.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon! ANON! Bloody hell are you alright?&quot; Sunburst says.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Calming down, you turn towards him, and Candle Shine, Both looking at you quite worryingly.</span><br />&quot;I....Im fine....Err....Well im not actually, but lets talk over...over breakfast.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;They exchange looks as you crawl to your feet, stumbling over to the unlit fire and rummaging through your supplies for the water canteen, which you quickly and messily slurp down.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you all sit around the unlit fire, the early morning sun shinng down, its of course Sunburst who speaks up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, this is good news! I know Starlight, shes very capable and will be more then willing to help us.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If, she is even in charge anymore.&quot; Candle pipes of.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sneering at her, Sunburst seems to snap a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Why wouldn't she be? She has...experience leading, she should be up to the task.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Candle shrugged and stood up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im sure you're right, but theres only one way to find out, of course.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Right, we've wasted enough time.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sighing, Sunburst gets up too.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After packing up, you head back out along the Tracks, a Long day of walking ahead of you all.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Its late in the day when you finally get near Canterlot Mountain, the massive city sitting up high above.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was Candle who noticed Pegasi Flying around here and there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually as your group was about to settle down, as the hike up would take quite awhile on foot, a few Pegasi Guards land around you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Halt, this is Restricted land, state your business!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Were from the Crystal Empire! We were snet by the Princesses! Im Sunburst, Royal Crystaller of Princes Cadence and Prince Shinning Armor!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards talk among themselves, before pulling their spears up, one of them flying off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Is this true? How are we to trust you?&quot;</span><br />&quot;...Why would we lie?&quot; You suggest with a shrug.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards look between one another, worry clear on their faces.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;..Then if what you say is true, you are lucky it was us who found you.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And why is that?&quot; Candle asks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards all look around, as if they expect to be attacked at any moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Because 'High King' Blueblood has taken over Canterlot.&quot; The captain spoke plainly.</span><br />&quot;The who has taken over?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst Curses, and Candle Shine groans in what appears to be disgust.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He is the self proclaimed 'blood related prince' to the sisters.&quot; Sunburst says.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Captain nods sadly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;after it Became clear something had gone wrong in the Crystal Empire, ponies began to panic. Starlight Glimmer did her best but...when things look bad, sometimes ponies might look in the wrong direction. Bluebloods a bastard, but he didn't get people to believe his nonsense without some charisma to back up his claims.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After recovering himself a bit, Sunburst approaches the captain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And what about Starlight Glimmer?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Captain sighs heavily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;At first she simply tried to keep herself in a position of power, and ponies weren't willing to ignore that the princesses had appointed her themselves, but...then HE showed up.&quot;</span><br />&quot;You're...going to have to actually say who...&quot; you suggest.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The captain leers at you ,but continues.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We do not know who he was, but he was a unicorn. He Claimed that the Monsters attacking the Crystal Empire would come for Equestria next, unless he was to speak with whoever in charge, alone.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Naturally,&quot; one of the other guards speaks up, &quot;We were about to arrest the bastard, before Blueblood agreed to meet with him.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The captain nodded, shaking his head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We have no idea what happened. Starlight went to the meeting aswell, but not an hour after those doors closed did we hear fighting start, the doors themselves being blown off their hinges. We are not sure how, but Blueblood was able to best Starlight Glimmer.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Many tried to stop him, but his power was thus too much to fight. In the end, we had a choice, obey and bide our time, of face the dungeons with those who defied him.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Worse,&quot; a different guard pipes in, &quot;Whatever that Unicorn gave him, can slowly affect a ponies mind. Every day he hold a public speech, and its like....a spell, slowly making ponies agree with him, more and more. It might be too late to simply use reason to dethrone him...&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot; And what about this unicorn?&quot; Candle Shine asks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The captain sneers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Left after the fight, or more like disappeared. We do not believe he is still in Canterlot, if nothing else.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, scratching your chin, as suddenly a few guards land, a chariot attached to them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wonder how they had got the here through the air...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Shaking yourself back to the problem at hand, you turn to the guards again.</span><br />&quot;how far reaching has his influence gotten?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guards exchange looks, before turning back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That...is actually a concern we were hoping to get your help with.&quot;</span><br />&quot;....Why?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Clearing his throat, the captain points upwards.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At first, you have no idea why he would, until you notice things have suddenly started to go very dark.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gasp.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;An airship. A fucking airship was passing by overhead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Blueblood has invited important and influential ponies from across Equestira to a gathering, to discuss Equestrias future over the course a few days...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And with that magic of his...&quot; Sunburst gulps.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard nods.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This may be our last chance to stop him, before his control becomes unquestionable.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pull at your raggedy shirts collar, feeling the pressure of the circumstances growing heavier and heavier.</span><br />&quot;Well.....uhh.....Anyone thought of just assassinating the bastard?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everyone suddenly turns to you, confused looks in their eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everyone but Candle, who you swore had a smile bigger then the damned moon across her face, for just a second.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What...is an Assassination?&quot; Sunburst asks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look upon them like they had just asked what grass was.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, then start rubbing your brow as you try and avoid a headache.</span><br />&quot;I mean, wait til the bastards asleep, or his backs turned, and put a dagger through his throat.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;some gasp, Sunburst gags, and the Captain outright spits upon the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We ain't godamned changeling here. We do things with tact, honor, morals. No solution that throws everything we stand for down the gutter is a solution im willing to listen to.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, before something he said catches your attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Changeling? What about them? You suppose it made sense that anything with that name wouldn't fit with some of those things, but the way he said it....</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now now captain, the changelings are reformed. Not even they would stoop so low anymore.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, right, my apologizes.&quot; He nods to Sunburst, &quot;Still, its disgusting, below a civilized species to commit, or allow such acts.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You groan, pulling your mind back on track.</span><br />&quot;Are you kidding me? Really? This &quot;'Blueblood' outright betrayed his people, sold them out to someone who might've started this mess, and now plans to magically control every important pony in the Kingdom? You dont have lot of options here.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the captain was about to answer, another Pegasus lands, panic across his face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You must leave now, a Traitor Patrol is entering the area!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Cursing, the Guards all but force you onto the carriage.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We can discuss this later, but just know Blueblood will get what he deserves.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From what you hear, he most likely wont.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the carriage suddenly lurches, you expect them to simply run you up the mountain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nearly scream as it lifts off the ground, clutching onto the side like a madman as you fight an oncoming panic attack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A-Anon...are you alright?&quot; Sunburst asks, putting a hoof on your shoulder.</span><br />&quot;H-how?! Why?! This thing is FLYING!?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Yes? What were you expecting?&quot; he asks, though with concern.</span><br />&quot;NOT. THIS.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;By the time the Carriage finally lands, you flop over the side quickly, not even waitng for it to come to a full stop.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Despite rolling a food 5 feet across pavement, you quickly get on your knees, kiss the goddamned dirty ground like a lover.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;By Celestia Anon are you mad!?&quot; Sunburst says, running up to you.</span><br />&quot;By All the gods of this world and mine, any creature insane enough to think those things are safe is whos insane.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Candle light tries to stifle full on laughter as she steps off, but the Guards seem less then amused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We dont have time for your foolish phobias, follow, quickly.&quot; The captains says, opening the door to the house you had stopped infront of with his unicorn magic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As everyone piles inside the house, you cant help but wonder where you actually are.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im sorry for the accommodations, but the castle and guard houses are too well guarded. Too many have become loyal to Blueblood.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst nods, &quot;So whats the plan then?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We have agents trying to warn who we can about Bluebloods intentions. Hopefully we can get some on board, and at the right time, they and those we can get into the room, can get through security to allow us our shot at taking out Blueblood.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Thats...it? Seems like a half hazard plan to me.&quot; You say, picking an apple of the table and enjoying a long, tasty mouthful.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You are so happy it was not a wax decoration.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The captain sighs, and surprisingly agrees with you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No, it is far from a perfect plan, however we have little options available due to his strength. We have managed to fish up an old artifact that might be able to best him, however it requires an amount of power few can muster, let alone use twice. We will only have one shot, and we hope the chaos of his event turning upside down will give us it.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst shrugs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Its not perfect, but I hardly can think of something better. Where is this artifact? I might be able to see if I cant figure out a better way to use it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The captain nods, and starts leading him away, but stops to address you and Candle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Feel free to use whatever you need from the house, these two guards will stay to protect you. Get some rest, we have a long morning ahead of us.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And just like that, you are alone with Chrysalis, even the two guards heading off to a different room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You grumble, walking off into the kitchen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Apparently having little better to do, Chrysalis follows.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You mumble and grumble as you search the pantries, picking out this and that and setting it on the counter.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Something is clearly wrong, so you might aswell say it.&quot; Candle says with a smirk.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slamming down a box of what you hope is cereal, you turn around.</span><br />&quot;Yeah, something is wrong. These ponies are idiots, baffoons. Morals mean shit if there's no one left to uphold them.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn back around, discovering you can indeed aggressively make a bowl of cereal.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...I agree.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stop, and slowly turn around, to be met by a Grin that chilled you to your core, eyes shining with glee.</span><br />&quot;Err...you do?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Of course, Bluebloods too big a threat to risk on an open engagement. He must be Eliminated before he can gain nay more control over the population of Equestria.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, but nod.</span><br />&quot;Yeah...but the others aren't gonna let us do anything about it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She giggles, walking up and patting your shoulder like one would a pet or child.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Eat your Cereal, Ill be back when its time to leave.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She winks and suddenly wisps around and walks off.</span><br />&quot;...wait...Gah fuck it fine.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Whatever the fuck was about to go down, you were not going to be a part of it on an empty stomach.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not again.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Being Chrysalis, Queen of the Changelings, you could not help but be a bit giddy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had not had such a chance for espionage in a long time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You usually left it to your children, curse them for betraying you, but you couldn't deny being out and about yourself was exhilarating after all this time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you slipped quietly into the room, you listened as the guards talked among themselves.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You think everything's gonna work out?&quot; The first one said as he put down a card for whatever game they were playing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The other ones shrugged, plying some card himself and getting a groan from his companion as he swiped up all the chips on the tables middle.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Everything always doe for Equestria, just gotta keep hope close by.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If you say so...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With little warning, you pounce, slamming the firs guards head into the table, hard.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Out like a light, you slide across the table after the other.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Despite his shock, he reacts quickly, tossing his chair at you as he rushes for his spear against the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You expertly dodge his feeble attempt at a throw, and have him pinned to the wall a moment later, spear thrown across to the other side of the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What in blazes are you doing!?&quot; He spits out at you.</span><br />&quot;Oh, just having a bit of a snack, before we go and do what you pitiful ponies refuse to.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Letting your disguise drop, you revel in his shock and horror as you begin your feast.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You leave not one drop of love between the two, licking you lips gleefully as you tie them up and toss them in the closet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle as you close the door, and pin it in place with the spears.</span><br />&quot;Well, that was quite fun.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, you head back to get Anon.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Anon, Ignore the sudden sounds of fighting as best you can, scarfing down another spoonful of cereal.</span><br />&quot;...How do the ponies use this silverware anyways?&quot; You ask the empty kitchen.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look up as Chrysalis, fully exposed, walks into the kitchen grinning ear to ear.</span><br />&quot;I....take it you did what you had to?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;In a sense.&quot; she says with a shrug, before motioning towards the door. &quot;We should leave while we can however. The others wont be happy once they come back.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, and taking one last bite of your honestly lackluster cereal, you follow her out into the crisp night air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As she leads you back alley to back alley towards the Castle, you cant help but ask what the plan is.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, using my superior natural abilities, and your...ability to actually understand what needs to get done or something, were going to sneak in and slip silently into Bluebloods room and teach him how a fool meets their end.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod respectfully, though you feel like this is only slightly better then the guards own plan.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Better still it was though.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you finally reach the back of the castle, Chrysalis holds motions for you to stay in the shadows as she transforms into a guard, stepping out and marching towards the protected door before you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant hear whats going on, but after a few nods are exchanged, the two guard ponies rush off somewhere, and a moment later she nods in your direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly rushing to the door, you slip inside with her, looking around the hallway for any sings of more activity.</span><br />&quot;Good work.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Bah, child's play, you can praise me once the jobs done.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Alright.&quot; you say with a shrug.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This way.&quot; she says as she leads you along.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you travel down hallways after hallways, avoiding a patrol here, and tricking one there, you start to think you might just pull this off like a pro.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, as you round a corner, you come face to face with a set of three guards on patrol.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey, what ar-? Halt!&quot; &quot;they yell, And you both curse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, Chrysalis launched forward, ending up behind them due to her wings, cutting them off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Smart move you realize, as one had been turning around to most likely get more help.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont have time to think, quickly slamming against the wall as a spear point nearly skewers you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, you came...prepared.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slipping the Train handle from your belt, you pin the Spear to the wall with a full body slam against its shaft.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard lets go, quickly turn and kicking at you, getting one hoof into the side of your gut and sending you tripping to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily, Chrysalis was apparently a much better fighter, one of the two after her flying past you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;For one, simple second, the guard is distracted as his comrade almost slams into his head from behind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But it is just enough for you to bring up your Weapon as you get up, whipping him hard in the bottom of his jaw.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You ignore the crunch as you stumbles but doesn't fall, collecting himself in but a moment.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But you were quick, slamming your Metal Handle &quot;Down hard on his helmet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He takes it like a champ, proving helmets work as he kicks at your knee, nearly sending you to the ground, before prying your weapon from you with his mouth and tossing to away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly swing, hitting him in the eye.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not a moment to hesitate, to think, you grab the first thing you can and go in for another hit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Like a Knife into butter, his own spear slips through his neck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes meet, utter surprise in his, your own full of hate, until you yourself realize what happened.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink as he slumps to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly letting go of the spear, you kick yourself away, trying to get your breathing under control as you fight panic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes wont leave the blood, hands shaking as you simply try and breath.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon....?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You snap back to the world as Chrysalis shoves her hoof in you face, waving it around.</span><br />&quot;Im...im...Alright...yeah....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She cocks an eyebrow at you but shrugs, pulling you to your feet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wince a bit as you put weight on your knee, but it holds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, that was...messy.&quot;she says, looking on in disappointment at the sprawled out bodies.</span><br />&quot;I....Yeah...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind was slowly coming back to focus.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had...known, you thought, what this would entail.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But somehow, standing here now...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, we better get moving, only a matter of time now.&quot; she says, and starts running.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not wanting to be left behind, you ignore you knee and run after her, quickly picking your Train Handle up along the way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was better then nothing ,and wasn't stuck in a pony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The rest of the trip was mostly quite, and before long, a well guarded door stands around the corner.</span><br />&quot;What now?&quot; you whisper.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Easy.&quot; she points to a room across from you, though along the same wall as your target.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You don't know what she was getting at, as she transforms into a guard again, and walks over and opens the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The five guards take no notice of her, though your pretty sure they still looked in her direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply sit, unsure of what to do as the door closes before you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You obviously could not exactly just transform like Chrysalis.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That is, until the door opens again, and out walk Chrysalis, a large rug floating in her magical grasps.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Perfectly blocking the hall so you can pass along it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To which you do so quickly.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hey, you, what are you doing with that?&quot; You hear from down the hallway as you slip into the storage room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Sir! I was asked to fetch a new rug sir!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What in the blazes...grah, those bloody rich snobs are never satisfied. Which one of them asked you to do something so ridiculous?!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Jello Donut Sir!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hear the captain groan loudly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well give that here, ill go take care of HIM. No Mayor is sending MY guards on stupid errands on my watch.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes Sir...Thank you sir!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A few moments later, she walks back in, door closing behind her.</span><br />&quot;Well...that was...convenient?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She smiles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Was it? I didn't notice.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Walking past you, she pokes her head out the window and looks to the side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, perfect.&quot;</span><br />&quot;What is?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He has a balcony we can get to from here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind ticks like clockwork, til it clicks.</span><br />&quot;Wait...were not going to...climb the outside of the castle...right?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pulling her head back in, she transforms back to normal, twitching her wings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, Im not.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You narrow your eyes, not at all amused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But the next thing you know, your slipping out a window, hundreds of feet above the ground, with nothing but a small ledge to settle your feet on as you clutch any and every hole in the stones for dear life.</span><br />&quot;Y-you know, you probably...probably! Dont even need me for this...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, nonsense, &quot;she says as she buzzes in the air alongside you, &quot;Having backup is never a bad idea.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It feels like hours, as you slowly, slowly make your way to the balcony.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Step by step, it gets closer, as you nervously make your way across.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, of course, at the last moment, your foot slips.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Undramatically, Chrysalis quickly swoops froward, helping you regain your footing, trying her best not to break out laughing.</span><br />&quot;Ass.&quot; you say simply.<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally making it onto the balcony, you sigh a heavy sigh of relief as Chrysalis lands next to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you slowly open the door to the room, you hear snoring, marking your prey for asleep.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You take a step into the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And the another.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly, you approach the bed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Step by step, careful as can be.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The only sound his snoring and the blood rushing in your ears as your heart races.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;and then, you are above him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Mane like gold, pelt like snow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look to Chrysalis, who nods to confirm it is indeed him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;suddenly, her horn lights up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And there is a knife magically held out before you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Heart beating like mad, your mind racing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Could you really do this?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He was just...sleeping, it wasn't like before, you didn't have time to think before.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To contemplate what you were doing....</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Anon, Stood in the entrance to the church, the man who was partially responsible for the destruction of your family, your life, standing before you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Here, at the fucking funeral of your father, the man he had fucked over in so many ways.</span><br />&quot;What...the Fuck... Do you think you're doing here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You barely control your urges to deck the man.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He sighs, looking through the door to the front of the stage where the casket was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I Tried you know, to get others to come. Told them he was a good man, he hadn't done anything wrong, didn't deserve so much that had happened to him. Everyone said I was too good a person, that I should forget about 'that old man.'&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't believe what you were hearing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Of course, I dont regret anything. I know you cant accept it, but me and your mother were in love, and he wasn't around for her....We were wrong, what we did, love is sometimes wrong.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You scoff, and point at him, venom building up in you voice.</span><br />&quot;OH fuck the hell off with your sentiment, you have no right to be here, to feel sorry for him after everything you and she fucking did you-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Your right.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pause, and simply stare at him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He hesitates, but suddenly reaches into his coat pocket, and pulls out an envelope, holding it out to you.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;What are...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I Figured, your dad loved that little plot of land he owned. Took me every Favor your mother owed me, but its yours now, Paperwork's all done, its official.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink and slowly take it from him.</span><br />&quot;Why..?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He smiles, turning towards you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Figured it was time to mend fences. To get the family back together. Its not too late you know, a few words and you'll have your second chance.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look up from the envelope, anger rushing back into your mind like a fire.</span><br />&quot;A second chance? FUCKING A SECOND CHANCE?!&quot; you spit in his face, and as he recoils point out the door.<br />&quot;GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY DAMNED FACE OR ILL SHOW YOU HOW MUCH A SECOND CHANCE IS FUCKING WORTH.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He frowns after getting his face clean, rolling his eyes as he turns.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I lied, all that was left was for me to sign the papers in that. You blew your chance, all I was asking for was a bit of civility.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You laugh, tossing the envelope on the ground.</span><br />&quot;Like I give a FUCK you goddamned Bastard!&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Chrysalis, Cock and eyebrow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A Potent Hatred was rising quickly within Anon Mous, so powerful you felt like your tongue was catching fire.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, he whipped the knife out of the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;In one, beautifully efficient moment, he brought the knife down, embedding it deep in Bluebloods throat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then, suddenly, as Blueblood awoke, Gasping.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the light went out from his eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The world became screams.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Horrible, terrible screams from all around, Echoing from every corner of Canterlot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly cover your ears, the Sound so intense you nearly collapse on the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You meet anons eyes as the sound, suddenly, stops.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;slowly regaining you composure, you both look around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anons face suddenly becomes on of horror, before he rushes to the doors to the room, throwing them open.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He simply stand there, hands still outstretched.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly trotting over, you cant help but recoil a bit as you catch sight, and piece together what had just happened.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Guards, most likely under the effect of whatever Blueblood had been doing, lay sprawled on the ground, blood dripping from even the pores of their face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...we....we just fucked up......We fucked up so bad......&quot; Anons whispers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You can only nod, slowly, as you wonder just how many ponies were in Canterlot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;So few could've &quot;ignored or escaped Bluebloods daily speeches.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As Anon slumps to his knees, you sit down next to him, shrugging.</span><br />&quot;The price they pay for their hesitation.&quot; He say with a shrug.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anons quite, before suddenly chuckling as he wiped at his eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Of course...the Price they pay for their hesitation....&quot;</span><br />&quot;Of course.&quot; You say, offering him a smile and a hoof.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you get him back on his feet, you stride out, Anon in tow, and a Heart filled with un expected satisfaction.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One step by one step, you and Anon go down Canterlots hallways.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One after the other, empty, save for a sprawled out corpse here, or a, surprisingly, one still switching with life.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You supposed the side effects of freeing them from Blueblood differed in intensity depending on who much exposure they had.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Shouldn't we...help them?&quot; Anon says as he stops staring at one mare as she attempt to blindly crawl across the carpeting.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, waving your hoof in exaggeration.</span><br />&quot;Hardly Im certainly no doctor, we have places to be, and not enough time for even a fraction of them.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thats...true....&quot; He said, slowly prying his eyes off of the mare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, and lead him along.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However, as you round a corner, you are suddenly slammed into a wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;What did you do!? WHAT DID YOU DO!?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sunburst stands before you, bloodied hooves, tears streaming from behind a new pair of glasses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Smile.</span><br />&quot;Simply what you were too weak to do.&quot;<br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon Freezes as Sunburst appears from out of nowhere, pinning Chrysalis to the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your feet feel like concrete, unable to move as your mouth opens and closes, words unable to form.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I should've known something was up with you 'Candle Shine'. You bloody MONSTER, You...You KNEW this would happen didn't you?&quot; Sunburst says, as he approaches the pinned Chrysalis, &quot;Oh, who am I kidding!? You probably PLANNED all this out!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you find the words to speak.</span><br />&quot;Sun...Sunburst....we...it was a mist-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He turns, and suddenly you're thrown to the ground, pushed several feet back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I Should've known Anon had been under your spell, he always did seem far too close to you for everything he'd been through.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gasp as you try and catch your breath, looking ap as Chrysalis tries to break free, shock showing across her face as her magic wasnt strong enough to do so.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then you see it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A knife slips out from Sunbursts bag, hovering, pointing at her.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;Don.....DONT DO IT!&quot; You yell, &quot;GODAMNED WHAT THE HELL WOULD IT SOLVE AT THIS POINT!?&quot; you shakily get back to your feet, Sunburst simply staring at her.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind was a fucking mess.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly approach, step by careful step.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't want anyone else to die, but you didnt think you could stop him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or....blame him for it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;....No....this time she went too far, she wont hurt anypony ever again.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no idea what he was talking about, but you knew you had to stop him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, the knife suddenly lurches forward.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont think, you simply rush forward, Panic taking over you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And the next thing you know, your blinking, as you double over, knife in your side.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A....Anon....?&quot;Sunburst gasps, backing up slowly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your vision blurry, you see his horn stop glowing, fear sprawled across his face, as you lurch over in pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then, Without a moments hesitation, He slams into the wall, a green glow enveloping him fully, as Chrysalis stands next to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She hisses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You will regret that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But, suddenly, somehow, you find the strength to straighten out, slapping a hand onto her shoulder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She Swiftly turns, and, you think you see genuine worry across her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon-&quot;</span><br />&quot;Im....Fine....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stand,grimacing as you pull your hand from the wound, looking at the blood.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something about it seems...off, but you dont have time to think about it.</span><br />&quot;We....have places to be. Leave him be....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She hesitates, before pulling her compsure back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He'll come for us.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Then kill him then.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She Blinks, Before shrugging, and pulls him back a bit, before slamming him into the wall, presumably to knock him out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You watch as he slumps against the wall, unsure of what the fuck you're supposed to think, supposed to do.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis, turns to you, staring at your wound.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hold still.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Wh-FUCK.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nearly bite your tongue as she rips the knife out of you, then points her horn at it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A moment later its been covered in some sorta green, sticky goop that hardens into a sorta rubber.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She smiles as you throw out a few more choice curses as the pain slowly dies down, stomping around in a circle as if it would help.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That should hold well enough. We changelings have a wonderful Mixture of tools at our disposal, wouldn't you agree?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Sure...&quot; You say as the pain finally becomes a simple dullness.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment, she clears her throat, looking off down the hall way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, I suppose a thank you is in order. That baffoon was more adept then I had thought.&quot;</span><br />&quot;I....No problem.&quot; you shrug.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply lean against the wall, trying to piece together what the hell happened.</span><br />&quot;What...the fuck are we even supposed to do now?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Do?&quot; Chrysalis says as she chuckles, &quot;What we already were going to do. They asked for our help and they got it, its not OUR fault if their mistakes created some....unfortunate side effects.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look at her, utterly dumbfounded.</span><br />&quot;Wha....You still want to try and stop those...things?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shrugged.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I simply want to stop a threat, and that unicorn and his monsters most assuredly is one to me.&quot;</span><br />&quot;...Right.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chuckling she motions for you to follow, and with little else to do, you get walking.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a silent trip to the bottom of the castle, but it was as you were approaching the end you speak up.</span><br />&quot;So...whats the plan now?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She stops, tapping at her chin.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, YOU should go, ill meet you by southern gate. I myself still have...one last thing to take of here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise an eyebrow.</span><br />&quot;Anything I could help with?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shakes her head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It wouldn't be right if I didn't do it alone. Now run along and find us some supplies, the trip to the coast wont be the a short one.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hesitate, but you slowly, comply.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;as you exit the castle though, doors closing behind you, you feel your vision going blurry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You try to walk, but finally fall to the ground, fighting back tears as you breath deeply.</span><br />&quot;Dear god what the fuck Have I done?!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had been fighting to keep it together.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But now, alone, your mind a flurry of emotions, you just couldnt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Why were you expected to uphold this responsibility?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To try and be a hero to these ponies?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were just some guy, some bloke who....</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...Who never asked for this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You suck in a large breath, slowly regaining control.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You never asked for this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just like back on earth, life had decided what the fuck kinda of life you should lead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One of misery and loss.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, slowly stopping the shaking in your hands.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Wiping at your eyes, you stare up at the sky, and flipping off the heavens you yell and scream.</span><br />&quot;You want me miserable? You want me to keep giving a fuck as shit rolls down the hill? WELL FUCK YOU, FUCK ALL OF YOU! IM SICK OF IT, IM SICK OF THIS SHIT.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You get onto your feet, looking around the empty courtyard and wave your arms around.</span><br />&quot;THIS IS LIFE, BULLSHIT ON TOP OF BULLSHIT? WELL FUCK THEN, IM GIVING IT BACK. YOU HEAR ME? ILL GIVE EVERY BIT OF IT BACK. IF IM DAMNED, THEN SO WILL BE EVERYONE ELSE.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, letting your gaze fall to the ground.</span><br />&quot;then so will be everyone else.....&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis slowly descended the stairs, making her way deep into the dungeons.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her heart determined, her mind focused.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She, strangely, was hoping Anon would be alright, but this was a chance, an opportunity she could not ignore.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As she passed the guards quarters, all hunched over dead, she didn't even stop, barely looking over to spot and float the keys over to her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Like a soldier to war, she marched steadfast into the darkness.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you arrived at the cell, a Large wooden door standing between you...and revenge.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a loud click, the door was unlocked, and swinging it open, you stared inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The pinkish unicorn sitting chained to the wall at first didn't even look up, simply snorting as she stared at one of the runes on her foreleg shackle, keeping her magic in check.</span><br />&quot;Hello...Starlight....&quot; you say with a friendly smile.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her head shoots up, eyes going wide.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Shock clear across her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;....Ch....Chrysalis?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Oh, im soooo pleased you recognize me!&quot; you say, pretending to be enthusiastically surprised.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I...You...Whats going on!?&quot; She says, trying to put on a brave face, standing up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile, as you walk into the room, looking around at the murky stone walls.</span><br />&quot;Oh you know, this and that. Bluebloods dead, im sure you are ESTATIC to hear that, no?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She blinks, a look of confusion and fear on her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You...no...you didnt....&quot;</span><br />&quot;Oh, not me, I would NEVER. My new friend however....&quot; You say with a chuckle. &quot;Well, hes a lot like me you see.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spin around, swiftly coming to a stop in front of Starlight, eyes filled with fury if as you force her up against the wall.</span><br />&quot;Everyone he cared for betrayed him too.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After taking a moment to enjoy the utter terror in Starlights eyes, you pull back, walking a few steps back, before turning around to give her another smile.</span><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Digging out a bit of leftover courage, Starlight shakily regains her composure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Changelings like you don't have friends.&quot; she says, holding her chin up high.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You laugh, stomping your hoof.</span><br />&quot;That's the best you can do? Really? That is how you intend to sting at my heart? HA!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly unleash a burst of magic, and eyes closed, nearly drool as you enjoy her screams as her horn is liquefied off her head.</span><br />&quot;Your wrong of course. Why wouldn't I think him a friend? The worlds turned him even darker and more vile inside then me, its quite admirable, wouldn't you say?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You trot over, putting a hoof around her neck, spanning your other skywards as she huffs in pain.</span><br />&quot;Just think about it for a moment, ME, the Queen of the Changelings, and a Human, thats what he is by the way, A creature broken and empty, saviors of Equestria.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;SAVIORS?!&quot; she says, snapping her head in your direction, anger burning in her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Smiling, you take her head in your hoofs, squeezing her cheeks.</span><br />&quot;Awww? Does that anger you? Why, despite the side effects, we DID free Equestria from Bluebloods reign, his plan to control the minds of everypony. And I cant Take over if some Unicorn Holds an army of Rotting Abominations over my head.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Starlight grinds her teeth, before her eyes go wide again as you slam her against the wall, hoof pressed firmly on her throat.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You revel as she chokes, legs kicking above the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sniff the air, moaning before breaking out in laughter, letting her slide to the ground.</span><br />&quot;Oooooooooh, the love you feel, building up as you still think there a way out of this!&quot; You giggle.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Smiling wickedly, you stare at the defiant eyes below you.</span><br />&quot;No. Your finished. Canterlot is Finished. The Crystal Empire is Finished. And when me and Anon Finish off the pesky imp and his Army, there will be NO ONE even left to stop me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You lean down, patting her head.</span><br />&quot;And those traitors? Those BASTARDS who left their mother, their queen to die? Ill make sure they all end up in the same shallow hole you are going to end up in.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She goes to talk, but you dont give her the chance.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She tries to scream, but is unable as you suck the love out of her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not one drop is left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cannot help but Hiss and Moan as you drain her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then, as she slumps onto the ground, dazed, you slam your hoofs down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Licking your lips as you look at your hoofwork, you give a bow.</span><br />&quot;Farewell, Starlight the Foolish, you will NOT be missed.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You laugh, turning with a swish of your tail, and head out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no time to waste, Destiny awaited.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon sat waiting by the Canterlot gate, two Travel packs full and ready to go.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He stared up at the moon, His thoughts, for once, clear.</span><br />&quot;Well....guess its juat us again...&quot; You say to the sky.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, it was never intended to be an 'us' in the first place, but I suppose you've proven to be acceptable company.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look down, Chrysalis Smiling as she strides over, a skip in her step.</span><br />&quot;Well....your certainly happy.&quot; You say, curiosity piqued.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And you seem content with the situation for once. We both are in better moods, see?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, but then smile, shrugging as you pick up your pack and and her the other one.</span><br />&quot;You sure you still want to do this? We really have no idea what were walking into.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She laughs, nudging you a bit before looking up at the moon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Yes. It wont do to have something so dangerous hanging over my head.&quot;</span><br />&quot;If you say so.&quot; You pull out the map you found, looking it over, &quot;Looks like...whatever this place is, will get us the closest to where we started off.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She takes a moment to look it over. &quot;Ah, Manehattan. Terrible place, but nothing we cant handle.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nodding, you roll the map back up as you head down the mountain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No looking back, no room for regrets.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You completely forgot you had done all this at night as the sun slowly raises above the horizon, hours of walking behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yawning, you peer ahead, the path long and intimidating before you.</span><br />&quot;Hey Queen Chrysalis, mind if we take a break?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She turns, and nods.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Happily you slump off your pack, nearly dragging it over to the shade of some nearby trees as you flop down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis joins you simply watching as you glug down on your canteen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Moments pass, as you munch on a loaf of bread, staring up at the sky.</span><br />&quot;So...changelings....why does everyone hate them?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalises head suddenly snaps in your direction, caught completely off guard by your sudden question.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Curiosity peaked, he decide to throw her a bone.</span><br />&quot;I just accidentally murdered nearly an entire city of ponies Chrysalis....I....I dont exactly have anyone to betray you too.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hesitation clear across her face, her eyes narrow at yours, clearly suspicious of your sudden interest.</span><br />&quot;Tell you what. You tell me about changelings, and ill answer any of your own questions about me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She laughs, rolling her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Why would I ever actually care about you or your world?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Harsh, but fair.&quot; You say munching down another bite.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You expect the conversation to die, but that is when you stare at your bread, and realize something.</span><br />&quot;...Huh....ive never seen you eat anything.&quot; you say, inspecting your bread.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;That's because we don't eat the same food as you lesser creatures.&quot; shes says matter of factly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle, giving her a smug look.</span><br />&quot;Well, keep saying shit like that and im just not going to be able to let this go.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She grins.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, I suppose I see no need to disappoint.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your head swerves her direction, this time you showing surprise.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We changelings are a hive species, ruled by a Queen, like yours truly. We use our tranformative abilities to infiltrate pony and other civilizations in order to feed. That is of course, the issue I suppose, as we feed on love, to which most are far from willing to give. Thus, we replace, usually temporarily, friends, spouses, family, whatever we need to to get what we need.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, so you're a parasite?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She gasps, flabbergasted.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A- A PARASITE!? YOU DARE INSULT ME?!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You laugh, before the pain from your healing side sends you toppling over.</span><br />&quot;Im sorry im sorry, but come on, what else is one supposed to think?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She sneers, waving you off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Is a pony a parasite to the land for needing plants? Is a griffin one for taking fish from the water?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Well, I mean, in a way...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shut up as you notice her nose flaring, quickly stuffing the rest of your bread in your mouth and shrugging exaggeratedly.</span><br />&quot;Right, sorry. Everyones gotta do what they have to to survive either way though.&quot; you say. &quot;I can see why they wouldn't like that, but I dunno, they still seemed to personally hate you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Taking a moment to calm down, she grumbles, hissing up at the sun.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I may have tried to take over Equestria once or twice.&quot; she admits.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You whistle, nodding slowly.</span><br />&quot;Well that would do it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a few moments of more silence, she cocks an eyebrow your way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You seem....ok with all that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you cock one back.</span><br />&quot;Why wouldn't I be? Im not Equestrian.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She blinks, confusion on her face.</span><br />&quot;Look, us humans aren't a united species, we fight all the time, good and bad reasons. I wouldn't feel the need to care if France, after a bad harvest, Invaded Germany for food, so why would I care If Changelings invade Equestria for food?&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She narrows her eyes a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im not sure if you really mean that.&quot;</span><br />&quot;and im not sure ill get anything out of this adventure, but im still here and I still trust you...mostly.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile smugly, taking a sip from your canteen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis looks away, making an amusing little 'hmph' sound.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, I suppose you've given me no reason not to trust you.&quot; she says simply.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you nod, before getting up and stretching, pulling your travel bag back up and onto your shoulders.</span><br />&quot;Then that's that. We save this stupid ass world, then we decide if we need to kill eachother.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She chuckles as she gets up herself, giving you a sly smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Id win any such fight.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod in agreement.</span><br />&quot;All the more reason to avoid it then.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that, you set off down the road again, not one worry weighing upon your shoulders.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You make good progress, but as the moon goes to replace the sun, you decide to make camp.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you get the fire started, Chrysalis mumbles somehing.</span><br />&quot;Sorry, what?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The moon and sun are still moving, I guess that means THEY are still alive.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look up, remembering how things supposedly work here.</span><br />&quot;So....how does that even work then? How do you fight someone who controls a part of the natural cycle things need to survive.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh please, &quot;she says, scoffing, &quot;Their own legends say the unicorns controlled such things before they even knew alicorns existed, those bitches are hardly necessary.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Well, sounds like someone still would be...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shake you head as you look back down, and finally get the fire going.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You just had a hard time accepted something so important was in the hands of a physical creature.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no doubt these alicorns must be powerful, but the fact you were even having to help them out meant they had limits.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And with limits, meant a possibility of defeat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;One mistake, and this world was apparently doomed.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a nice dinner, you lay your head down to rest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you drift off to sleep, you cant help but for once, feel a bit of hope.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It had been three years since you dad had died.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sitting in your small house alone, you stare blankly down at your bottle, nearly empty.</span><br />&quot;..gonna have to go buy more I guess.&quot; You mumble, before getting up and yawning.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;That is before suddenly your entire house starts to shake, massive cracks appearing as it breaks away and dissipates, leaving you standing in a foggy forest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly coming to the realization you are dreaming, you also come to the obvius conclusion of how you might know that.</span><br />&quot;Err....hello Luna?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You start turning, trying to find her, before suddenly you are knocked off your ass, a very angry Blue horse, eyes glowing, standing over you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;WHAT HAST THOUS DONE TO UR PONIES YOU WRETCHED CREATURE!?!?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Taking a moment to let your eats stop ringing, you sigh,and being a dream, YOUR dream, simply will yourself into standing behind her.</span><br />&quot;I....I did what should've been done the minute that stallion betrayed 'your' people.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn to her, ignoring the seething anger she was trying to intimidate you with.</span><br />&quot;Im...im sorry about what ended up happening....I....I had know way of knowing...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her expression slowly softens, though still serious as a stone wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thou mistakes cannot be ignored, but we cannot afford to serve thy punishment under these circumstances.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You laugh half hardheartedly, waving her off.</span><br />&quot;Punishment? You can fuck off with that princess. IF your guards had simply done their job, this all could been avoided.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a single flap of her massive wings, shes in your face, hot air blowing across your face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Do not try out patience, human.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You push her snout out of your face, giving her your own stone face.</span><br />&quot;I think I should go ahead and let you know, us humans aren't so naturally inclined to do whats good, even if not doing so could lead to our own demise.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ist thou threatening us?&quot;</span><br />&quot;I don't threaten unless threatened first.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stare eachother down for a moment, before she sighs, and pulls away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thou makes some points, and if it was thine only crime, we would not be so steadfast in our judgment of thee.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise an eyebrow, not really understanding.</span><br />&quot;I dont remember doing anything else.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thy sided with the Changeling Queen. And thy are free of her spell, so thy has no excuse for such actions.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She turns, standing as tall as she can over, looking down as if she was unquestionably correct.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply will yourself to be taller then her.</span><br />&quot;Why wouldn't I? Shes given me no reason not to trust her. She simply does what changelings must do.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna smiles, shaking her head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No, Her people are now proof of that. They were given a better option, and they rightly chose it over her stubborn pride.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink.</span><br />&quot;What...do you mean?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Her people were given a choice between her or a reformed son of hers, who had proven that they need not feed on love if they simply are willing to give as much as they receive. They themselves defeated her, and transformed into something better, acceptable.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind races as you hear what Lunas says, and everything else you had gathered about Chrysalis and her situation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Images of your own brother, your mother and family, race through your mind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna worriedly looks around, the dream suddenly a flurry of changing scenery, as you relive all the moments you were betrayed by your own family.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;as Memories fight for space and existence in your mind, trees, snap, house crash into one another, hell breaks loose.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And the, its all stops, leaving the scenery a mess worse then Detroit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna looks at you, worry shining through.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, then let the anger take hold.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Better? Yeah, of course you would say that. Maybe it is, or not. But you expect me to take their side? Yours?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spit at her feet, as she takes a step back as you approach.</span><br />&quot;No, Goddamned that shit no. I dont give a damn what she or her people did, lifes shit and sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do. But im not gonna stand here and let some stuck up princes who probably hardly raises a hoof for her people tell me whats right or wrong. They betrayed her, she hasn't betrayed me. I know what thats like, and if she thinks she deserves to burn their world down, ill fucking light the match myself. &quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna looks at you, a mix of horror and disgust crossing her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thou art a broken creature, Anon.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regaining her composure, she turns and starts walking away, mists slowly enveloping her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thy will see Anon, Given a Decision, she will betray you.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Then ill die as alone as I lived.&quot; You spit back.<br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You wake up in a cold sweat, quickly looking around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The moon still high above, the fire dimmed but going, and Chrysalis softly sleeping nearby.</span><br />&quot;Fuck....fucking christ....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You moan, grabbing your sleeping bag and pulling it back over.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hopefully this time you would be allowed to just fucking sleep.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;By the time you are on your way come morning, you Cant help but yawn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, you had gotten some sleep, but even without Lunas interruptions it seemed your mind couldn't settle down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I see someone didnt sleep well.&quot; &quot;Chrysalis says mockingly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You grumble, shrugging.</span><br />&quot;Im used to it, regrettably.&quot;<br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The next few hours go by without much issue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually though, you start to see a group of pony here and there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis was quick enough to put on her Candle Shine disguise, but you hardly avoid looks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And as the groups get bigger and bigger, and more frequent, you finally stop as a Guardspony walks up to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Where the hell do you two think you're going?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Err....Manehattan?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He blinks, looking at you like your some kinda idiot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im...no, I cant let you do that.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;And why not?&quot; Candle pipes up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...You...you haven't heard?&quot; he points to all the ponies running by, many with wagons of stuff, or individual saddlebags, &quot;Those monsters came south from the Crystal Mountains. Manehattans been overun, most think Fillydelphias next. Orders are to get everyone to Canterlot, hold out there.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You and Candle share a look, before you give a weak smile.</span><br />&quot;Err....Right, we've been on the road for awhile...We'll just...turn around....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The guard nods, and rushes off to some other problem.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the guard leaves, you quickly get out the map, Sitting down under some shade with Candle.</span><br />&quot;Well, damnit, now where do we go?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;After a moment of looking, Candle smiles, and points at what appears to be a small town in the middle of a forest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We cut through Hollow Shades, and hope we reach Fillydelphia before those abominations do.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was much easier to break from the growing crowd then you expected, though by the time the Hollow Shades Forest looms infront of you, you cant help but feel a bit apprehensive.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The way the sun simply stopped as it touched the trees, like the light itself was being absorbed.</span><br />&quot;...Interesting place.&quot; You mumble.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, it certainly has a nice charm to it yes.&quot; Candle Shine says as you approach the edge of the forest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just as you enter onto the path leading into its depths however, You flip around, swearing you saw something off in the trees to your left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis chuckles, motioning for you to keep going.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;My Anon Mous, you aren't afraid of little woodland creatures now, are you?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Its not the little ones you need to worry about.&quot; You say sternly.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;More importantly, you worried trouble might be approaching.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Paranoia maybe, but you were running out of patience with this worlds shit.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You make your way deeper and deeper into the dark forest, Candle Shine lighting the way with a soft glow from her horn.</span><br />&quot;So....know anything about this 'Shady Hollows' place?&quot; you pipe up, cutting the near silence of the forest.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shakes her head, looking around a bit herself as the subtle sounds of animals fill the air.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Not much, it was commissioned by Luna after her return, a place for her to stuff away and forget one of her many mistakes.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stop for a moment, unsure of what the hell any of that meant.</span><br />&quot;What does that even mean?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Candle Shine smiles, giving you a toothy grin as she stares back at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It means Batponies my dear.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Bat...Ponies....you're fucking with me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She laughs, breaking the murky air as her voice echos around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If ONLY. Honestly, that is what is in store. Lunas &quot;blessed Children&quot; the legends say, though I dont put much trust in ponytales, they tend to romanticize things, and the princesses never think to correct them.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you gawk a bit at that, as you hop a bit to catch back up to her.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont know how long you walked, and could barely tell that night had approached.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;At least, you are pretty sure it had.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It felt a bit darker, but you really couldn't tell as much as you would like.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Eventually though, you see a bit of light up front.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, I think were just about there.&quot; Candle Shine says.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, but as you slowly approach the town you cant help but feel like you are being watched.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Alot.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;From basically all directions.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look down, making sure your trusty train handle was still in your belt, gripping it tightly, ready for the worst.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look forward, Candle taking a moment to look back at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your eyes meet, and silently, you know you both agree that you need to be prepared for the worst.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You gulp down your fears and doubts as you both, slowly, enter the silent town.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You see a pair of glowing eyes dart in and out of sight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Two from the left, three from the right.</span><br />&quot;...You ready?&quot; you whisper as you and Candle stop, both getting back to back, as more and more eyes dart around the buildings and trees.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Always.&quot; She says as you exchange smiles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, you see a shape, a blur.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn, Weapon tugging from your belt, as the shape comes straight for you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But right before impact, it stops.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You jerk back a bit from the smiling, gleeful cat like eyes shoved in your face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;OhmygoodnessLunabeblessed VISITORS!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;To your horror, you and Candle are suddenly surrounded by Pegasi with bat like wings and ears, and eyes like a night predator, all full with so much excitement and joy, asking question after question and some even going as far as to mess with your hair, one even giving you a hug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You and Candle exchange looks of utter horror, neither sure what the fuck to do.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Alright, alright everyone off the guests!&quot; A voice booms out, as as the crowd sadly give you space to exist physically in this point in space, a much older Bat Pony mare appears through an opening in the crowd.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After inspecting you for a moment, she chuckles.</span><br />&quot;You can put that...thing away. We don't mean you no harm. You must forgive them, we dont get visitors here. Ever.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You and Candle light share a look, but you both calm down, shoving your weapon back in your belt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now, lets get you two a room for the night, come come.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're not sure about this, but you certinally dont feel a need to stay and be harrassed so take your chances with the older mare.</span><br />&quot;So...whats your name?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She smiles back at you as she holds a door open for you to a quite large looking Inn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Mayor Night Meadow, and who might such a interesting creature such as you be named?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile, unused to compliments, but weary of them too after everything.</span><br />&quot;Anon Mous, and this is my friend, Candle Shine.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A pleasure to meet you Mayor.&quot; Candle says with a nod as she follows you inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was a cozy enough place, though with clear signs of disuse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but look out the window at the suddenly busy town, Bat ponies zipping this way and that.</span><br />&quot;Apparently we caused quite a fuss.&quot; You say.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, like I said, your the first visitors here we have had.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but stare at her.</span><br />&quot;Surely someones come before?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The mayor sighs, shaking her head sadly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im afraid not. Most ponies dont even know we exist, an those that do dont seem interested in getting to know us&quot; she shrugs, &quot;But such is our lot in life, we are what we are and wont let nopony diminish our pride!&quot; She says confidently, hoof against her chest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise an eyebrow, but Candle seems more then pleased by their demeanor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I agree, You shouldn't let nopony decide what is best for you.&quot; she says with a confident nod.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Not wanting to get in the middle of whatever seemed to be happening, you quickly move things along as you approach your rooms.</span><br />&quot;Yes, well, its been a long day, and we have a long road ahead of us tomorrow-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh...of course, I shouldn't of expect you were planning to stay long...&quot; The mayor says with a sad smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, mind going static a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They...did know what was going on in Equestria, Right?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Or....maybe they didn't, this place did seem...isolated.</span><br />&quot;Er....its not that this place isnt lovely, but, with everything going on, we have to get to Fillydelphia as quickly as possible. Before those things get there?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Things?&quot; She says, cocking her head sideways.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel your mouth twitch.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Lord help you they actually might not know.</span><br />&quot;You...guys dont leave the village much, do you?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She blushes, shrugging with a meek smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Were a bit more...nocturnal then most ponies, and prefer darker places, so there aren't many place we would want to go...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You're about to try and explain,well, a lot, when she pipes up again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, whatever it is, im sure you can tell us over dinner. Please, go and rest up a bit, we'll send someone for once everything ready!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont even bother trying to stop her as she hops away, used to not getting a chance to speak your mind by now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;These ponies sure as hell didn't sit still for long.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sharing a shrug with Candle, you enter the room.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was cozy enough, two beds in either far corner, a dresser between them, and a bathroom off to the side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking inside, you nod respectfully.</span><br />&quot;Wasn't expecting running water, impressive.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, why wouldn't there be?&quot; Candle says as she sets down her saddlebag, yawning a bit.</span><br />&quot;With how isolated they are I guess I just expected less.&quot; You say with a shrug, turning a flopping down on the bed nearest to you.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, if there is one thing ponies always go for, its comfort.&quot; she says.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After taking a bit to freshen up, You stare down at your raggedy, torn up shirt, and then down at your surprisingly healed up wound.</span><br />&quot;Man, whatever magic you put in that goop did wonders.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hm?&quot; Candle Pipes up from her bed, not even opening her eyes.</span><br />&quot;Well, my wounds already closed pretty well, doesn't hurt too badly either.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her eyes flutter open a bit, eyebrow raised.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It was just goop sweety, better then raggedy bandages of course, but there was no healing magic involved.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, and jumping out of bed rush into the bathroom, inspecting the wound as best you can in the mirror.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Its hard to see through the rubbery green stuff, but it looks...alright.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Considering everything, it looks amazing actually.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And it horrifies the fuck out of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Maybe some sorta innate magic in this place was helping?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yeah, that must be it you decide, taking a few deep breaths.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Just innate, silly magic in an innately silly magical land.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you slump back out and pick up your rag of a shirt off the flood, sighing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You really needed new clothes, your shirt had been cut twice and had not been mostly red when you came here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well, more of a black now you suppose....</span><br />&quot;Do ponies even have tailors?&quot; you wonder to yourself.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Had seen a few in clothes, but they seemed rare.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you didn't know how you were going to pay even if you did find one.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you contemplate the severity of your need for clothes, you hear a light knock on the door.</span><br />&quot;Er...Come in?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The door gingerly opens, a bat pony standing in the doorway, pacing in place a bit, excitement clearly trying to be hidden as she tries to avoid looking at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Uhm, I-I was sent to...Well, Im here to lead to to the dinner party?&quot; she says with a wide smile.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt; &quot;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, slipping whats left of your shirt back on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It was...not exactly something you wanted to wear, but wearing nothing would feel much worse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you gently wake up Candle Shine, you raise an eyebrow as you hear mumbling behind you.</span><br />&quot;Im...sorry? I didnt catch that.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;O-oh! Well...well I was just wondering how your shirt g-got so, you know...&quot; she says squeamishly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile softly, looking down at the damned thing.</span><br />&quot;We....have been through a lot recently.&quot; You chuckle. &quot;Way too much actually, some would say its like &quot;we have bad luck or something.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her eyes light up, and it appears she was about to ask ALOT of questions if the amount of air she was sucking in was to suggest, but thankfully Candle Shines Yawning as she flops onto her feet next to you cuts into the conversation.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes, well, it seems our luck might have taken a better turn. Lets go take part in it while we can, no?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, and motion for the bat pony to lead the way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh...of course! This way! Oh, im sure you'll love the dinner we have in store! Most ponies dont know it, but this forest has wonderful treats in it, if you know how to find them, of course!&quot; She says proudly as she skips down the steps to the bottom floor and leads you outside.</span><br />&quot;Sounds lovely&quot; You say, giving her a smile.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had to admit, this was nice.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt guilty for enjoying it, but its not like you planned to leave tonight anyways, so you hoped there was no harm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking around as you go outside, you nod, surprised by how alive the town suddenly was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Decorations were flung up here and there, torches and other lights making it feel quite homely.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;This way!&quot; the Batpony says, pointing with a hoof towards where a large table, nearly overflowing with food, had been setup.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you eye all the food longingly, suddenly you notice Candle Shine frowning.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />&quot;Something up?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She nods, very slowly, then motions for you to lean down a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She quickly whispers in your ear, before walking forward to avoid suspicion.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If they are so happy to have guests, then why do I smell so little love coming off of some of them?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You do your best to keep your composure, but inside you feel your heart sink.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That was a valid point to make, given how gleefully they all were acting towards you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you take your seat, a plate is quickly sat infront of each of you, and bat ponies quickly fill the seats.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hearing a ringing of silverware on glass, you turn to see the Mayor getting everyone's attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A toast, to our new friends! May this be a night we all remember gleefully for years to come!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise your own glass halfheartedly along with all the others, before everyone starts pulling food onto their plate and digging in, to which you join along with at your own pace.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hoped Candle Shine was just being as paranoid as you, but you supposed if Canterlot could be influenced by this threat, maybe this place could somehow be too.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Best to simply wait, see what happens.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Jumping to conclusions would get you nowhere.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The night passes quickly, You and Candle Filling the air with Tales of your adventures.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You....skip a few parts, to avoid having to explain away the fact Canterlot was a corpse City now...</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, it was a pretty good night, all things considered, and you couldn't notice any ulterior motives from any of them, nor, despite your best efforts, could you catch any glaring eyes with malicious intent anywhere.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Even Candle Shine seemed to be enjoying the attention, though considering what she was you wondered if that was simply her way of eating.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As things start to settle down however, sadly, finally, something catches your attention.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spot the bat pony from before whispering to another, quickly splitting up the minute they see look their direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You lean over to Candle, quickly whispering to her.</span><br />&quot;Be Watchful, something might be up.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She simply nods, otherwise ignoring you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You try your best to enjoy the rest of the night, but finally as the party seems to come to an end you notice more movement off to the side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you can get up or see whats going on, your attention is drawn in the other direction as the mayor suddenly speaks to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well! Anon, Candle Shine, It really has been a lovely night! We are so glad you decided to join us, and my do you live interesting lives!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile and nod to her, standing with Candle as you rub at the back of your head.</span><br />&quot;Well, it was lovely for us too, but we really need to get some rest. Like I said, got a long journey ahead of us.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;she nods sadly, but smiles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Of course, but if you could just wait one more moment?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you can answer, you hear something land behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Both of you turn, unsure of what to expect but prepared for the worst.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If they wanted to fight, you would give it to em good.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you blink, two glee filled faces staring back at you, and two...presents, one shoved forward towards each of you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We-we understand you cant stay long, but we wanted to get you something, to remember our little village by!&quot; One says shyly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, slowly, reach out and take the present, unsure of how to feel.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well...open it!&quot; she says, hopping up and down with excitement.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod slowly, and carefully open the package.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look down in shock as the wrapping paper falls away and you unfold your gift.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A Shirt, a bit big for you, but nevertheless of seemingly good quality.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I- I saw you looking at the one you're wearing sadly, so I figured, your race must wear clothes a lot, so I asked a friend to make you a new one...I-Its not too big, is it?&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stare between it and her a few times, trying to get your brain to fucking work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You give her a smile.</span><br />&quot;Its perfect, thanks....you didn't need to do this though.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Especially because you were just about to beat some of their heads in, you think.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You share a look with Candle Shine, whos holding up a-</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Holy fucking christ was that an emerald necklace?!</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We-well, I know we didn't need to, but we wanted your first time here to be something great!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn back to them, nodding.</span><br />&quot;Well...it was. Thanks.&quot;<br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sit in your room, staring down at your new shirt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were about ninety percent sure there was actual silk in this thing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Candle Shine was inspecting her necklace casually herself.</span><br />&quot;...I almost brained them.&quot; You say plainly.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She nods.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes well, we thought they might try and kill us.&quot; She shrugs, putting on the necklace. &quot;But I suppose its a good thing we did not. Lovely gifts, They certainly have some fine hoofs to make such gifts.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She yawns, and after blowing out the light, lays her head down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Dont let it cost you your beauty sleep Anon, one can hardly blame us for being careful.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply nod, and with a sigh, lay down yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You did, afterall, have a long journey ahead of you.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Look down, another bottle of empty whiskey sitting in your hands.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sighing, you wonder why you sit here every day, doing jack shit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, the TV catches your attention, Something about Mountain eagles or some shit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But it reminds you of years ago, when you and your dad would go hiking together, those few times he had time to when you were young.</span><br />&quot;...Fuck it.&quot; you think, and quickly get up and packing.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You knew a few good mountain trails outside of town, and you were damned if you would keep wasting away in misery in your apartment.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You mumble, and sit up slowly in bed, your dream cut short as a light knock comes at your door.</span><br />&quot;Uhh....come in....&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly, the same bat pony from the day before enters.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Uh, B-Breakfast is downstairs when your ready.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Oh, thanks.&quot; you say, yawning.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She nods happily, and starts to leave, but you quickly catch her attention.</span><br />&quot;Hey, I didn't catch your name yesterday...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;O-oh! Its.... Wolfsbane....Its not the prettiest, I know...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrug.</span><br />&quot;sounds perfectly fine to me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;O....oh, umm, thank you...&quot; she says, blushing before retreating out the door.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were glad you hadn't bashed her head in for sure.</span><br />&quot;You coming?&quot; You say over to the other bed.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wake me again and you will learn what regret truly is.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With that answer, you quickly decide to give her some space.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;downstairs was, thankfully, pretty sparsely inhabited, only a few bat ponies sitting and eating at this table or that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly spotting what appears to be a buffet bar, you grab a plate and find a place to sit, giving a nod here or there as you meet some ponies eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sit eating in silence, simply enjoying the day, but feeling....off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You grumble, wondering why you suddenly feel so....weird.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And the, with a smile, you feel it click.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This was the first time, the First Ponies you had met, that actually made you feel like you had a reason to try and save this place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then your heart sinks, remembering that no pony cared about this place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But maybe, just maybe, you could be the first.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you say goodbye to the Bat ponies and head on your way, you feel a newfound sense of determination for your....quest? Mission?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't sure what to call it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And as the sun finally shines its light down from above as you exit the Forest and back onto your path, you whistle, as rolling hills of farmland lay before you.</span><br />&quot;Well, I almost feel bad taking so much food with me.&quot; you say as you step among the tomatoes and carrots lines.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Why anon, surely you wouldn't steal from some ponies harvest? That would be sooo wrong!&quot; Candle says over dramatically.</span><br />&quot;Hell yes I would, if I had no other choice.&quot; you say with a confident nod.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You both share a hearty laugh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Hours more pass, before you find a good spot to take a lunch break.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you sit down to enjoy some food however, Both you and candle notice some shapes up in the sky, heading in your direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt; You at first try and ignore it, despite expecting that it was going to be unpleasant, biting into one of the fruits you were given, and Candle takes a seat next to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So, what do you think it is? Passerby's or guards sent to find us perhaps?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You shrug, taking another bite.</span><br />&quot;So long as its not trouble, it can be whatever it wants to be. Though...they look a bit...big, to be Pegasi....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As the shapes get above you however they slowly start circling above.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, like rocks, they drop, kicking up dust all round you as the six shapes land.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It takes only a moment, but you and the now exposed Chrysalis are up on your feet, back to back, ready to fight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You fight past the sudden fear and shock, as you had saw what had landed around you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Four Zombiefied griffins, and Two Similarly sized Twin headed Birds, also gearing to be undead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you are caught even more off guard by what happens next.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We are not here to fight, we came at our Master's orders, with an offer for HER.&quot; Says the biggest Zombgriff, pointing to Chrysalis.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Being Chrysalis, you dont like it when somepony, or zombified griffin, points at you without permission.</span><br />&quot;And what, dare I even ask, could you possible offer ME?&quot; You say, raising your frame up to look as down on them as you could.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We offer you Equestria and the Crystal Empire. All of it, yours alone.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, completely taken aback.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon stares back at you ,worry across his face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Dont tr-&quot; Anon starts, before suddenly being cut off by an ear curdling screech.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Quite human, you were not spoken to, one should learn that means one is to keep the-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;-Mouths shut, Yeah im not going to do that.&quot; Anon smiles at the Griffins, its feathers quite literally ruffled.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply look around you, surrounded on all sides by these horrid things.</span><br />&quot;...And how do you propose your pitiful master could even accomplish such a thing.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The griffin smiles, spreading his arms out wide.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;All the alicorns are all preoccupied, and will not be able to stop, or survive, the fall of the Crystal Empire. They can be destroyed, or if you prefer, delivered to you personally. Canterlot has already fallen, and with a bit of help from us, you can rule it. Choose a shape. Celestia? Luna? Or would your prefer your own? We can help make any of the QUEEN of this land. All we ask for, is one simple thing.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise an eyebrow.</span><br />&quot;And what would you DARE demand of ME?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Your Obedience to our masters commands. He will not call often, but he expects that when he does, you will give what is asked.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, slowly, chuckle, then laugh, laughter that slowly grows.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Until suddenly, you cut it off, hiss as you magically slam the leader into a tree.</span><br />&quot;ME?! QUEEN CHRYSALIS?! MOTHER OF THE GREATEST RACE TO EVER INHABIT THIS SORRY WORLD, MASTER OF FEAR, THE GREATEST QUEEN OF THE GRANDEST HIVE?!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The griffin tries to struggle, but as your vision goes green with arcane power, you tear him limb from limb as you press hi against the tree til it snaps.</span><br />&quot;I BOW TO NO ONE, OBEY NO ONES COMMANDS. I AM QUEEN, DESTINED TO RULE OVER ALL!&quot; You turn to the others, readying to pounce, hissing with all the hatred you had ever felt &quot;and I know no master.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;everything seems to pause for a moment, until anon whistles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hot fucking damn, that was fucking terrifying, bravo Queen Chrysalis.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Dont ruin the moment for me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;He shrugs, before another griffin speaks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You have made your LAST mistake.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They charge forwards, and you and Anon quickly get ready, horn glowing and his...Train Handle raised.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a wave of your Horn ,you send three flying back, before turning and kicking one of the Birds away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon manages to Parry away two attacks from the griffins, before landing a solid blow on one.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It shrugs it off quite quickly, to be expected from something you dont even know if it can still feel pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon, to his credit, quickly give its another hit, and another, but the griffin just takes them, even starts chuckling a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly are drawn back to your own fight as one of the bird flies high, and two griffins pounce.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blast one away, before blocking the other with your horn, getting locked down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Surprisingly, the griffins knocked back as Anon turns around, giving him a quick smack before turning back and blocking a double clawed strike from his own side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You return the favor, blasting away the second griffin after him as it tries to pounce while hes off balance.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you both regain your stance together, panting, he curses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;fucking hell, they lack some of the finesse movements from the living, but they still outnumber the hell out of us.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile back at him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Then simply dwindle their numbers Anon.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Right, of course, why didn't me and my Masterly crafted sword from an ancient monk atop a mountain think of that one.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont have time to reply, hearing the whooshing of the air above you as the Thunder birds swoop down from above, both heads screeching.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Shooting a few streams of magic upwards, you throw off their trajectory but fail to land a hit, barely dodging an incoming griffin before stabbing forward, digging your horn into its side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It barely notices, and you only just avoid its claws as it tries to pin you down by grabbing onto your neck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon was stuck Side stepping and blocking, Claws coming at him from every direction as three griffins jabbed at him with their claws.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont have time to help, slashing the ground with your horn to create a wall of fire for a moment, forcing the creatures to step back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;This gives you just enough time to aim upward, the Thunderbirds coming down at you again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but smile at the fact they clearly realize you are the superior threat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Taking time to aim, you blast one of them, the other quickly swerving away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You side step, the thing landing next to you with a hard, satisfying crunch, a mess of pulp and feathers as you set it on fire for good measure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn back forward, two griffins having turned their attention on you as Anon smacks back at the one on him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once pounces, and you blast him back, but the second one gets lucky, grabbing onto your horn and slamming a claw down into your back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hiss in pain,horn glowing as you blast apart its claw, then blasting it back, go in for the kill.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But before you can, you are forced to turn as the other gets in close swinging your horn at it to fend it off with fire.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Meanwhile, Anon barely dodges an incoming swoop from the other Thunderbird, but manages a nice kick into a griffins jaw.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You notices a few cuts along his shirt, but don't have time to worry about that as your own enemies are back on their feet, each circling a different direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You fire left, and then turn Right, blocking an incoming swing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Right.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Left again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You block and fire and block, waiting for an opening.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Once you see it, you lurch forward, horn charging as you hit one directly in the chest with a powerful blast, creating quite the hole.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It blinks, then smiles, knocking you back with a good hit as you roll across the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon meanwhile screams in pain, the Thunderbird pinning him to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But He quickly swings up, its lightweight frame going tumbling from the impact of his weapon, as he rolls to avoid the griffins pounce.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You meanwhile, quickly get to your feet, hissing as you ready for another attack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You get smacked in the snout as one throws a rock at you , the other getting a good cut across your chest before you stab your horn into his gullet, blasting his head off and watching with a snort as he topples over.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You casually look up at the other one, but quickly scream, as the Thunderbird knocks you down from behind.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look up, horn ready, but to your surprise Anon once again comes to your aid, screaming as he tackles the thing off of you , hitting the thing over and over until it stopped twitching as you quickly kept the final two griffins at bay with a wave of fire as you slumped to your feet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A moment later, Anon is back at your side, bloodied and bruised, but weapon raised and ready.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Both huffing and panting, you share a smile with him.</span><br />&quot;Well, see? Just dwindle their numbers down, nothing to it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He chuckles before twitching in pain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes, easy, painless, nothing to it at all.&quot; he huffs out.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You both stare down the two remaining griffins, one missing a claw, the other a hole in its chest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They share a nod, and suddenly, one of the flies up into the air, clearly fleeing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You fire at him, but the other griffin jumps in the way, taking the hits and tumbling down to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You and Anon quickly are on top of it, and a moment later the creature is no more.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon flops onto his back, staring up at the sky as he catches his breath.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Holy fuck im still alive.&quot; is all he musters through his pants of exhaustion.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle, taking a seat next to him as yo go about cleaning and bandaging your own wounds.</span><br />&quot;Yes well, you did good to survive if nothing else.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You finish patching yourself up and turn to Anon, looking over his many cuts throguh his now ruined shirt.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but chuckle a bit.</span><br />&quot;Well, that gift didnt last long.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hm?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You point at his shirt, and as he looks, a moment later hes sitting up, cursing heavily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;God fucking shit dammit I just got this thing!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He winces in pain as he pulls the thing off, inspecting it and grumbling to himself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh as you decide you better patch him up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He twitches in shock as you start patching up his wounds, but after a moment he simply lets you work.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;After you finish, you yourself flop down with a sigh starring up at the sky.</span><br />&quot;Well, this was a horrid lunch I must say.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The worst ive ever had, and you dont wanna know how bad some fast food places are where im from.&quot;</span><br />&quot;do they often involved fights with impudent corpses?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon hesitates, and flopping down next to you, shrugs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Depends on where you go.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon and you decide to spend the rest of the day recovering.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And by that you mean, you both lay there in silence til you simply fall asleep, letting exhaustion take hold.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The you awake with a mumble, the night moon high above as you groggily gain your bearings.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Despite the cold chill of the night air on your snout, you feel oddly...warm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Sleepily looking to your side as you feel some weight, Anon lays there, arm stretched over you as he snores away the night.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You have no idea when he managed to drag out on the blankets ant wrap it around you two, but with a grumble and a yawn, you decide any punishment can wait til morning.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon stares down the road, the morning sun rising above the mountain top as you take in the radio tunes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It felt nice to get out for once, you had spent so much time cooped up after your dads death, that a spot of fresh mountain air sounded relaxing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you turn off the main road and head up to the park, you cant help but feel this was a step in the right direction.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then the dream starts collapsing.</span><br />&quot;Oh god fucking dammit.&quot; You say as you flop and roll across the meadow ground as your car disappears.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You get up on your feet, and grumble as you look up, expecting Luna to be staring down at you menacingly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Instead, suddenly, she is holding you up off the ground fear and worry defining every detail of her face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thou must get up, thous must make it to the mountain and stop this evil, now!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You push yourself out of her grip, barely landing correctly.</span><br />&quot;Geezus im no spartan, that fight was nearly the end of me, cant I rest for even one fucking night?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luna looks at the ground for a moment, tears in her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Thy do not understand, the morning is already upon us.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise an eyebrow.</span><br />&quot;Ill admit I was tired, but the sun usually wakes me up.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She looks up at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If thy does not succeed, my sisters sun may never rise again.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt; You blink.</span><br />&quot;Wha...what do you mean?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Our lines are nearly depleted, we hold only the Castle left.&quot; she sighs, trying her best to collect herself. &quot;My sister was struck heavily in combat. She lives, but everyone including myself is exhausted and supplies run low. We will not hold much longer, and I fear these creatures may not intend to take any pony alive.....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod slowly, taking it all in.</span><br />&quot;I....im not sure what you expect of me. Im not exactly slouching here, im exhausted. Fillydelphia might not even still be standing from the looks of things!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;My subjects dreams show it is holding the creatures outside the city, but you are right, it will not hold long. You must wake, &quot;and get there quickly. Our friend Thorax and his Changelings are there helping out, I have told him in his dreams to expect and help you however he can...&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, but before you can try and ask anything more, the dream starts collapsing.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You mumble yourself awake, looking up at the moon high above.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Feeling something stir as you get up, you look down to see Chrysalis rolling over onto her side.</span><br />&quot;Hey, uhh, Chry- Queen Chrysalis, we need to get up...&quot; you say, rocking her a little.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She mumbles, not waking, so you sigh, wrapping the blanket on her as you get up and go get your pack where it lay.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Deciding to get a bite to eat and let her sleep a bit more, you sit back down next to her, munching on some bread as you smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She actually looked almost cute as she slept, though you suppose all these ponies did.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Strange how this world had evolved little to no two legged sentient's.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;and even weirder was the lack of thumbs.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you eat, your eyes get drawn to the Train Handle still lying down next to the last Griffin you had killed together.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but chuckle, thinking about how you STILL were dragging that thing all across Equestria with you,as you go and pick it up.</span><br />&quot;Well, I suppose you shouldn't look poorly on a weapon thats served you so well.&quot; You say with a shrug, shoving back into your pants, which you realize were also in need of replacement.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As your walking over to finally wake Chrysalis up though, you spot your shirt where it lay, the moonlight illuminating it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly walk over, something about it catching your eye.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You inspect it carefully as you pick it up, unsure of what exactly seems wrong.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then, it clicks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You drop the shirt, hardly even noticing you do so as you quickly scratch at one of the rubbery coverings from Chrysalis, ripping it off after a bit of effort.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly wiping at the wounds, you shakily pull your hand up to your eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Black, dry, flaky.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nothing that should happen this fast, or with fresh wounds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sit there, staring, for what feels like ages before you hear Chrysalis yawning behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, mind in a panic, you simply put your shirt back on and turn towards her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Mrmph....Anon...shouldn't the sun be up by now?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile meekly as you walk over to her, trying your best to ignore whatever it is that was wrong with you.</span><br />&quot;Well....Luna gave me some...info in my dreams you need to hear...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly fill her in on Celestia and the Crystal empire, and on Fillydelphia and Thorax.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Her mouth twitches into a frown at the mention of the Changelings, and you don't blame her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well that certainly is...interesting.&quot; She says, walking forward slowly as you stand there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You watch as she silently puts on her own saddlebag, and after she motions, you head quickly catch up as you head on your way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Neither of you were exactly in high moods, you figure.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As Luna had said, the moon alone now stood in the sky, Celestia wounded and her own strength fading.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With Fillydelphia looming above you now, you can only wonder what lies in store for you here.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you approach the Barricades, a few Disturbingly multi-color Beetle pones rush out, point spears at you and Chrysalis as Candle Shine.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon and Chrysalis. Dont try and hide who you are, we were already expecting you. Come quietly, time is of the essence.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis shrugs, shedding her disguise casually as she walks forwards, and so you do too.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you enter into the city, it is clear just how disastrous things are going.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Despite from what you know, the Monsters not yet reaching into the city, the place is a mess.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everything and anything useful had been taken, and any pony not necessary was sparse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;What ponies you did see in this part of the city were a hap hazard mess, some going as far as using pans and pots as armor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally you stop before what is obviously the mayoral governmental house.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Wait here.&quot; they say, and after exchanging some words with more Guards, both Rainbow Beetle pony and normal pony, they head inside.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You and Chrysalis simply stand there quietly, though with a quick look her direction you catch a glimpse of fire in her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you hear a voice up above.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hello Anon...Chrysalis.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look up, and see the most out of place creature you have yet seen.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A Beetle Pony as big as Celestia, Antlers coming out of his head, wings outstretched as he starts walking down the steps down to you, a tired looks in your eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hear a hiss, and turning quickly, see Chrysalis bearing her teeth, before several weapon points are in both your faces.</span><br />&quot;Uhh, listen, Chrysalis, I know you probably want this guys blood across the pavement, but neither of us is at our best, nows not the time for revenge, and trust me, I understand wanting to knock some bastards clocks out.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She raises her head, looking down upon the ponies and Beetlepones holding her back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They all seem scared out of their wits from her, but thankfully, she slowly closes her mouth, a deep frown laying in its place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You're right Anon, but address me in such a way again and you will regret it.&quot;</span><br />&quot;...right.&quot; you say casually as Thorax reaches you.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, id love to say this was a...pleasant meeting, but im afraid both the situation at hand and both of your...histories say otherwise.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah yes, OUR histories. Tell me, I dont recall either of us selling out our own mother so they could kneel at the heels of lesser races, but yet see you with no weapons pointed in your direction.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis tried her best to talk down to him, but the situation hardly helps her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Despite that everyone but you and Thorax seem to be getting unnerved.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thorax ignores her, turning to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;It is not too late for redemption Anon Mous. You had little choice and even less information, but you do not have to stand by her side. You can finish this without her.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You scoff, rolling your eyes as you listen to him.</span><br />&quot;Please stop it with the self righteous bullshit. Ive come this far with her and im not gonna throw her under the bus now.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Bus? No, never mind. You misunderstand Anon, &quot; he says with a nod, and all the weapon points transfer from you to Chrysalis. &quot;She will NOT be accompanying you the rest of the way, regardless of your opinion on the matter. However I trust from your ability to arrive here at all that you still have it within you to do what must be done, of course we wont send you alone.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thorax turns to Chrysalis, who simply stares hatefully at him in silence.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I will thank you for getting him this far mother, but you cannot be allowed to roam free any longer. Word is Canterlot is...a mess. Luna says it was not intended, but it only proves the danger you pose, regardless of intentions. Take her away.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You have no idea what to do, mouth agape as Chrysalis holds her head high as she starts getting lead away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn to Thorax, whos currently giving orders to this or that pony, and blink.</span><br />&quot;so...you're in charge here?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Hm? Ah yes, I thought you had been told that already?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Just confirming it.&quot; you say.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;As Thorax goes to open his mouth again, You slip out Your trusty Train Handle and Bring it up and into the bottom of his jaw with a loud, satisfying CRUNCH.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Continuing your momentum, you spin and slam it down on a guard next to you, knocking him the fuck out, and quickly grab his spear.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Turning, you rush the dazed Thorax, and getting behind him, press the spear point to his neck.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you calm down and look around, everypony and beetlepone around, including those escorting Chrysalis, has stopped, mouths drooping open as they stare.</span><br />&quot;R....RIGHT! LISTEN UP! You dont want Thorax to die, and, probably, I dont want to kill him. Uhh....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had not really thought this through.</span><br />&quot;Release Chrysalis, you ill stick this overgrown bug like a kebab.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;To prove your point, you press the Point of the spear into his carapace a bit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thorax seems incredibly calm, as he looks around at all the nervous, murmuring faces, and gives a nod.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ponies pull their weapons up from Chrysalis, you gives a slight smile as she rolls her eyes and trots back over to you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, this was unexpected Anon. Good work, whats next, hm?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Fuck you had no clue.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thinking quickly, you scramble for and answer, before looking over at the nearest Guard.</span><br />&quot;You, Blue and White guy. Lead us to a Boat, or ship.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He looks around nervously.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;M-me?&quot;</span><br />&quot;...Yes?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Y-yes?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh for Celestias sake lead them to the ship we prepared.&quot; Thorax says with a snort.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ri-right.&quot; the stallion says, slowly pointing with his head.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You carefully follow, trying your best to keep Thorax between you and anyone who might stick something in your back, but him being larger and horse shaped makes it difficult.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You really are making a mistake Anon, she would've let you be dragged away if things were reversed.&quot; Thorax says as you and Chrysalis, and about a dozen angry ponies, follow the one guard.</span><br />You ignore him, simply focusing on the grow amount of attention you were attracting.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;suddenly, one very worried looking pony runs up, skidding to a stop, which must have hurt like hell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your growing mob stops as he catches his breath, mumbling and muttering in-between gasps.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Please, speak clearly.&quot; Thorax says.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ponies head shoots up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;THEY BROKE THROUGH THE LINES!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everything instantly becomes a panic, and that is when Thorax takes the moment to kick you backwards several feet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You curse, biting your tongue as you slam into something quite hard, spitting a bit of blood out.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Its dusty, flaking blackness catches your attention, before you hear a roar.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly get to your feet, and looking over the crowd, try and find Chrysalis, but with all the damned Colorful Beetlepones flying about you just cant see shit.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That is, til you hear a hiss behind you.</span><br />&quot;Oh thank fuck I- oh fucking-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You quickly block an incoming pounce, as some zombified, giant lizard thing hisses and jumps.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis had not had a good day.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That being you ,it meant you were quite pissed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon had surprised you spectacularly by jumping to your aid, an effort you were coming to expect, but given the circumstances you certainly had not, at least not so openly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Better, his efforts mightve given you an opportunity.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A chance for you to put that traitor in his place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then, once again, those Abominations ruined everything, all the more reason to actually help get rid of them.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you attempt to keep your feet in the ever shifting crowd of terrified and rushing ponies, you look around, trying to spot Anon....or Thorax, a Monster, maybe even a familiar Building.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With such poor visibility from all these flying colorful horrors of your once proud species not even you could really tell what was going on.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly push your way through, craning your neck to try and look above the crowd.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dared not fly, already having to twist and bobble your head to avoid incoming fliers, and you certainly didn't want to get slammed out of the air into a crowd like this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally, you see an opening in the crowd, and dashing forward, use the space to look around.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then ,you spot him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thorax.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Having organized a good mob of Abomination Beetles and Ponies, he appeared both quite distracted but to be successfully pushing something around the corner back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your heart skips a beat, horn glowing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He had proven his uselessness to you, and perhaps his inability to lead by allowing this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You had no reason left to let him live.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And no idea when another opportunity might present itself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;as you start approaching however, barely, you catch a familiar voice, a slight yell over the noise of the chaos.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Snapping your neck to the left, you peer through the crowd, trying to spot him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Another yell makes him out, and you pause.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;There he was, three Lizard beasts around him, one pinning him against a wall, blood splatted across the brickwork as he attempted to hit it off with his bar.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Forward! FORWARD! WE WILL HOLD THIS CITY!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your attention switches back to Thorax, Disappearing to who knows where as he helps in the fight, slowly fading from view.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind races.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were hesitating, unsure of where to go.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;With a snort, you spit, knowing exactly what needed to be done, and run forward.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, horn glowing and ready, charge forward with all your might.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You would show no mercy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No regret.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you blast the overgrown gecko off of Anon, before zipping into the air and slamming another to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ooof....Damn, thanks Queen Chrysalis, thought I was fucked that time.&quot; he says, regaining his footing and hitting the third one away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hiss as you blast at another, landing next to your comrade.</span><br />&quot;You were, then I saved your ass.&quot; You say with a smile.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Bah, just means I have to return the favor again.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No, no regrets.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You would've done the same for any of your children back in the day.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They however, were gone.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon, despite everything, was not.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thorax might one day present himself again anyways.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You snap back to the fight, spinning around and kicking one away, as anon, pushes one into the wall then starts beating down on it, yelling something about 'coming and taking it, you damned red coated bastards.'</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The scale color was more of an orange you thought, but you had little time to correct him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blast another one back, before Anon slams one to the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Taking the opportunity, you stomp a hoof on it, and blast off its head.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You note these were taking much more magic to damage then the griffins before.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Heads up!&quot; Anon says, stepping in front of you and blocking both the others as best he could, nearly going to his knee as they push down on him as he blocks them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Rushing forward, you stab your horn into one of their necks, and charging up energy, pop their head like a horrid, gooey balloon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon nearly vomits, the other Lizard beast jumping back, hissing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You return your own hiss, blasting at it, to which it runs off, disappearing into the depths of the city and chaos.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon, for once, takes the initiative, telling you to follow as he rushes through the city.</span><br />&quot;Do you even know where you're going?!&quot; You say as you round a corner into a fight, quickly turning and going somewhere else.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Towards the Docks....wherever they are.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You roll your eyes, but really was the best place to go you supposed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Finally after who knows how much wandering, you get to your destination.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Many ships however had already left or were just leaving.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly looking around, you spot an empty boat sitting unattended.</span><br />&quot;Anon, there!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You both dash for the boat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Clambering on the small motorboat, you and anon end up just...standing there.</span><br />&quot;Well?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Me? Fuck uhh, ill try to figure it out sure.&quot; Anon says, nervously rushing to the controls, looking over them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Suddenly, you hear the sounds of fighting, and clench your jaw as you look down the dock.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;the abominations had broken through somewhere , and were steadily beating back what few were trying to hold them off, making their way down the dock.</span><br />&quot;Anon...hurry.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He looks up himself, and starts yelling curses as he turns the key and just bullshits it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The boat lurches backwards a second, hittign the dock, before he figures out the controls and your zooming forward, snapping a bit of the dock off and nearly capsizing in the process.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon eventually gets the thing under control, dock becoming smaller and smaller behind you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Right....which direction are we going again?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pull out the map, looking it over.</span><br />&quot;....that way?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply point leftwards with your hoof, shrugging.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Grumbling, he looks over the map, but unable to piece it together himself, he simply turns leftwards.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon mumbles as you stares ahead at the bleak ocean before him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He had been driving this thing for hours, and they had little idea of how long they had to go.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis sat sleeping on one of the benches behind him, which only annoyed him further as he would love to do that aswell.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking over at the fuel gauge, he frowned.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still much more full then empty, but a noticeable change.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He had no idea if they had enough, and Chrysalis had found little of use searching the ship.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The idea of dying out at sea did no peal to you, as you take a moment to look up at the never shifting moon.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You realize sleep might not even matter, after what you pulled Luna would probably just try to beat your dream self into pulp, if she was even still alive that was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, letting your eyes fall back upon the endless sea, stretching out endlessly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How far you had gone, just to go back to the beginning.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How much you had done, how much you had ended up fighting the ponies, ironically to help them against this threat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't really justify your actions logically, only emotionally you realize, staring back at Chrysalis.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You...had no idea if you considered her an actual friend, or if your need to not be like your family had simply made you stay with her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But, she had stuck with you all the same herself, so you figured that was reason enough to justify it to yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The ponies, however?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle, turning back to the sea.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;They would probably drive a spear through both of you, regardless of if you were able to end this Horde of abominations or not.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you weren't able to return home that was....</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, looking down at the steering wheel.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Did you even want to return home anymore?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hardly saw a reason to stay, you had nowhere you would be accepted here now even if they didn't run you down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And what? Stay with Chrysalis as she spends her life running and hiding?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were far from finding her company unpleasant, but you had had enough danger for one lifetime, you knew that for a fact.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But, on Earth?</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A small apartment, a decent job, but an empty life.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No friends left, no family left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No future beyond what you already had....</span><br />&quot;Fucking christ im a loser.&quot; You say to the empty air with a laugh.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Yawning, you correct your course a bit, and simply lean forward.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If you cant rest your eyes, you should at least let your body rest as much as possible.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However without even noticing, your eyes slowly slide shut.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You awake with a start as you slam forward suddenly, Chrysalis yelping as shes thrown to the floor of the boat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Regaining your footing, you quickly shut off the boat and look to see what you hit.</span><br />&quot;OH....uhhh....land ahoy?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis hisses as she gets up, snorting in your direction.</span><br />&quot;Sorry, Guess I was more worn out then I thought...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look around as you step off the boat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You didn't really know where you were, but it LOOKED more like Griffin lands then pony lands.</span><br />&quot;Well....you recognize this place.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis gives you a look.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No.&quot; she says simply, &quot;But our destination is most likely still to the north.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod and get walking, knowing this drill by now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but feel anxious however, realizing that up in these mountains, somewhere, was your goal.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And this was going to end, either in his or your blood most likely.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;That was not a thought you were happy to have on your mind.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It takes a few hours, but eventually you come across somewhat recognizable terrain, the Mountain above looking quite familiar.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look around, something bothering you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No Monsters, no Birds, No Insects buzzing...well, besides Chrysalises wings every now and again.</span><br />&quot;You would expect....something, to be out here. Im not even hearing a single animal.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis nods, looking around herself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I suspect a trap, or the fool never thought anyone would get this far.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle.</span><br />&quot;Nah, its a trap. Were not that lucky.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You share a small laugh, before heading on your way, as prepared as you can be for what lies ahead.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you take a rest somewhat up the mountain, you find little of it as you nervously watch every shadow relentlessly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't let the idea that something was just waiting, buying its time to pounce on you go.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A you munch on a bit of bread, you look over at Chrysalis, staring up the mountain.</span><br />&quot;So...what do you thinks gonna happen up there?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She shrugs silently.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, finishing your dinner and staring up yourself.</span><br />&quot;Yeah....thats about my thoughts too....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You both spend a good bit more time simply sitting, before finally you had had enough and stand.</span><br />&quot;Fuck....well, lets get this over with then....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis simply sits, staring at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;....I guess... this is the end then.....You go home, and I....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, staring back, freezing in place.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She lets her eyes fall down to the dying fire, eyes reflecting the flames as you stare into them.</span><br />Finally, she breaks the silence,sighing and standing up herself.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, it doesn't matter, this must be done either way.&quot;</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, weakly, before walking over and leaning down infront of her, meeting her gaze with your own.</span><br />&quot;...Hey.....Chrysalis?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Yes?&quot;</span><br />&quot;...Its...Its been one hell of a ride, and im glad I took it with you.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hold out a hand, hoping she understands what a handshake is.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She blinks, before a small smile is given.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And next thing you know, she has you in a hug.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It takes a moment, but you return it, hand resting softly in her mane.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Same to you.&quot; she says as you both just sit there.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;If you tell anyone about this, I will kill you.&quot; she adds a moment later.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle as you both pull back, meeting her smile with yours.</span><br />&quot;Yeah, figured as much.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;And with the mushy shit out of the way, you head on your way.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You really had no idea where you were actually going, as you climb the mountain further.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;However coming across a lit cave, it seems far too unlikely it means nothing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You also hear voices within, and as you go deeper, the walls slowly show signs of being carved and structured.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;It seems someones turned this cave into quite the expansive home or something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you near a door slightly open ,you peak inside,hearing many voices from within.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stop, a bit shocked, as Twilight, and &quot;five ponies you had seen back at the Crystal Empire stand before an...extremely normal looking unicorn, in a MASSIVE Alchemical looking laboratory.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Unicorn is plain gray, a Mane of a similar but darker color, a Plain Brown cloak covering him, with a big pair of round glasses sitting on his snout.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He corrects them as he responds to whatever the six mares had said.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yes, I was quite impressed they managed to break a hole in my Creations lines to get you through, but sacrificing Celestia to do it was foolish. No matter, here you stand, but here you fail. Go ahead, use the elements, it wont do anything. I have no direct control over my wondrous zombies, and if you think you know how to find, heh, or even destroy, what I use to do it, then by all means, go for it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You push the door open, drawing everyones attention, as you walk inside.</span><br />&quot;REALLY!? ALL OF THAT BULLSHIT, AND YET HERE YOU STAND?! WHAT THE FUCK AM I DOING HERE THEN!?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...A-Anon!?&quot; Twilight says, shock across all but the Unicorns face.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;...Ah...my mistake has arrived at last. Welcome I guess.&quot; He says, pushing his glasses up his nose.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You snap his direction.</span><br />&quot;What!? Mistake?! I dont even know you!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, never let it be said mixing magical practices together cant get messy. Im surprised though, looking at your wounds, surely you had noticed? Has your memory not recovered, my research says inter dimensional travel messes with those, but usually not for so long....then again, ive never tested it on the dead before.&quot;</span><br />&quot;What are you....&quot; you trail off, looking down a panic as you grab your shirt, staring at the blood.<br />&quot;I....I.....no.....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You take a step back, hand clenching, shirt tearing, as you breath heavily.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon? Anon what is it?&quot; Chrysalis says, putting a hoof on your arm.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look at her, then at the room, all eyes on you, everyone looking with worry.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everyone but the Unicorn, who stares with a smug smile.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then you remember.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You sigh, Breathing in the fresh morning air, as you slap on your backpack.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A good day as any for some mountain hiking.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spend hours climbing up, and even as you see some dark clouds off in the distance you shrug it off.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You come to quite a nice, but small little cliff, memories of when you and your dad would climb such things when you were young coming back.</span><br />&quot;Well....i dont see the harm.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were more out of shape then you thought, as you struggle to pull yourself up, rock by rock.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then it happens.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;rain starts coming down.</span><br />&quot;Ah, fuck!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look down.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Probably will survive, but it still doesn't look like a comfortable drop.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And looking up, you are way closer to the top.</span><br />&quot;Fuck it.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You get climbing, trying to get a good grip on the stones as the rain comes down harder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then, you slip, falling, falling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you land with an oof, but after the dizziness wears off, you look at your hand, stone firmly in it from the cliff side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You laugh, tossing it behind you.</span><br />&quot;Well, that was a bad idea.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You get on your feet, deciding it was time to head back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You something bounces off your head.</span><br />&quot;fuck ow.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Damn rocks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then you look up, and it dawns on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The water, and your weight, just broke something loose, and it was crashing down.</span><br />&quot;I....No....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;And then your world was black.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You snap back to reality, your eyes locked on the Unicorn.</span><br />&quot;I....but...I was crushed....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You mind feels numb, your memories clear as day, yet you cant accept them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your focus is on him and him alone, everything else a blur as you seek answers.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He smiles, nodding.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You see, I was searching through alternate worlds, looking for something, when I happened upon yours. This mountain it seems, is an anchor point, a place that exists perfectly the same and across multiple universes. It allowed me to swoop in, too late to save you of course, but before your body was mulched. Using my Research, I decided to see what would happen to a creature from another universe if revived.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He clears his throat.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You...escaped, your mind too fresh to control, and I did not feel you worth chasing down.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Everyone is silent, until you finally find the courage to speak.</span><br />&quot;I...I was still hungry though, I-&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;A simple trick of your mind, it didn't realize it no longer needed to eat.&quot;</span><br />&quot;But....I...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your gaze falls, staring at your shaking hands, before your buckling knees bring you to your knees.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Unicorn laughs, before something one of Twilights friends says draws his attention to them.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You dont hear, your senses blurring as your mind races, trying to accept that you were, in fact, already dead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You...you suppose it explained some things but....</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thats when you feel...something, like something in the room was....</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;NO! WERE DONE LISTENING TO YOU! GIRLS, LETS DO THIS!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your head snaps sideways at Twilights yelling, you blink as they sart to glow.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Im telling you princess, you are wasting your time.&quot; The unicorn says, before suddenly the room is full of rainbow energy.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You and Chrysalis quickly cover your eyes, the light blinding, the energy almost knocking you down.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly regain the ability to see, ears ringing, sight full of spots.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And before you....nothing has changed.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Twilight looks agap, the Unicorn simply cleaning his glasses on his cloak.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I....but....wha?&quot; Is all the Blue pegasus can muster.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The unicorn sighs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;The Elements of Harmony will not work on something that is itself not a threat, not outside of harmony. I am a genius of the mind, but my own magical prowess is....lacking, honestly. There is nothing inside of me personally for it to negate, for it to seal away.&quot; He smiles. &quot;As I had already told you, of course.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He waves his hoof around the room, and you take into account all the equipment, artifacts, and books.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I use other peoples creations to make up for my own weaknesses. Go ahead, try and figure out what does what, lock me away, bring every genius you know to help. But I spent years learning all of this, and you and Equestria don't have years.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, &quot; Chrysalis says, taking a step forward, horn glowing. &quot;We dont need years, only to make you...more talkative.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Twilight steps forward, putting herself between the two.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Step back Chrysalis, im not gonna let you touch ANYTHING, or anypony, here.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She rolls her eyes at the princess.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;We hardly have time for your moral dilemmas Twilight.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;As if you actually care about anypony or Equestria you two face critter!&quot; The orange one says, stomping her hoof down as she takes a place next to Twilight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply watch, trying and failing to bring yourself back to reality, you ears, suddenly, obviously, silent to the sound of your own heart and pulse.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel nothing, no heartbeat, no need to breath, no need to blink.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You fight, as it feels like insanity claws away bits and pieces of your brain.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And something, something still...</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stand, walking over and putting a hand on Chrysalises back, you stare past Twilight and her friends to the bemused Unicorn behind them.</span><br />&quot;...Im really....dead.....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He nods silently.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly nod back.</span><br />&quot;You couldn't even let me just die....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He shrugs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I have little knowledge of what your life on earth was like, though I knew you were emotionally damaged from what little digging I could do.&quot; He smiles. &quot;Such damage usually makes one easier to influence, so of course I couldn't pass up such a specimen.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Twilight gives you a sad, sympathetic look from the corner of your eye.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon...I...I cant begin to know how you feel, what you've been through....But you need to step back, or at least let us deal with this our way....Nothing you could do to him would change anything now....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Yeah, and you dont need to keep defending HER either, we understand you had...little alternatives, you didn't know what was going on and we shoved ya out to ta try and solve our problems like ya knew what ya were doing.&quot; the orange one adds.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply keep staring at the Unicorn, until you notice Chrysalis looking at you, concern and sympathy in her eyes.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slowly meet hers, giving a weak smile.</span><br />&quot;...Nah....&quot; You say, before looking up and meeting the six mares eyes, &quot;I knew exactly what I was doing, who I was siding with. Shes my friend, only one ive had in a long time, and I dotn hand out Loyalty cheaply.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You take in their faces.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Some are sad, confused, the white one seems utterly revolted you could even say something like that.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah....ah cant understand how you could ever stand proudly next tah her, if ya knew-&quot;</span><br />&quot;I know exactly what shes done and is.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You chuckle sadly, meeting Chrysalises eyes, taking in the saddness she tried to hide in them as she gives you a gentle, genuine smile back.</span><br />&quot;But where im from, you dont get mad at someone for ones nature, and you dont return loyalty with treachery.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look up at them again, before the Unicorns laughter draws everyones attention.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, what a heart warming moment! Oh, what did you ponies expect? He has no heartbeat, so he grew a bond with someone with no heart at all! A Tale for the books, truly.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile yourself, unwilling to ignore he wasn't entirely wrong.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You knew the ponies had a point, and in some ways you didn't understand it yourself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Given another life, you probably never would be defending her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;...But you had seen her jump to your aid, you had seen genuine worry from her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You felt for her even knowing full well what it was like to lose everything, to have everyone turn their backs on you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You couldn't justify seeing her as good, but you couldn't see her as only evil either.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You were both broken with nothing left, and you weren't going to neither of you wanted to feel that again.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Twilight had turned, staring angrily at the unicorn, horn glowing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Just tell us how to stop your creatures!&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He laughs.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Or what? Theres only three killers in this room, and you're blockading them from one another.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;While they talk, you lean down next to Chrysalis, whispering.</span><br />&quot;I....something in this room is...I think I can find what hes using to animate his creations but....Twilight and her friends, they dont have the....well....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis smiles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;They're too weak willed to do what needs to be done.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Before you can get up though, Chrysalis puts a hoof on your shoulder.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon....if you destroy that thing.....you....&quot;</span><br />&quot;I.....I know.....but.....im not letting this prick do whatever he wants.....Just not something I could li- Go on letting happen....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She nods, and you share a sad smile with her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well then, what do you need from me.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Keep those six busy, ill deal with the Unicorn.&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stand hand squeezing your trusty train handle tightly, Determined to see this to the end.</span><br />&quot;Twilight, stand aside. Ill get this solved quickly.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She turns to you, snorting, apparently out of patience.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Anon, you dont know what your even doing, just stay over there until this is over.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis laughs, taking a few steps forward, horn glowing, which draws all six of them to turn and stand ready.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, lets just have a little chat, Mare to Mares, shall we? Let the boys have their fun.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Twilight goes to say something, only for Chrysalis to blast her into the wall, before leaping at the rest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Dont know how long she can stand up to all six of them, but as she expertly swerves and kicks them around, its obvious which actually knows how to fight.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;How long that will help her go though....</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Turn to the unicorn, his smug face as you approach irritating you to no end.</span><br />&quot;Just you and me.&quot; You say, drawing your weapon.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Please, no need for that, lets just talk.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Nothing to talk about. You fucked with my life, now your fucking with thousands of others. Your dead as far as im concerned.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He sighs, shaking his head as he corrects his glasses.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Do you really wish to die? I gave you a second chance, surely you should be thankful. You know....Im not trying to destroy Equestria, just....open it up for new management, make it....more willing to accept new leadership. Nothing like a lost war to provoke anger in ones monarchs.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You raise an eyebrow, completely sure hes bullshitting.</span><br />&quot;Yeah, and im fucking king of earth, ruler of the heavens, master of the seas.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, you could be a king. Im not against putting such offers on the table.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply stare blankly at him, taking in his grin.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Oh, yes, you could have a life here, both you and Chrysalis. You dont have to die again, you dont have to give up everything. They hardly care about either of you, your a tool to fix their problem. Sure, I created you as one aswell, but at least im honest about it.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, before slamming your weapon against one of the bookshelves, sending books and papers flying everywhere as you march up, pointing the weapon at him as he takes a few steps back.</span><br />&quot;Yeah, even if I trusted you, none of that shit is what I want. I lost what I wanted long as fuck ago.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Well, shame.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And suddenly, you gasp, his horn glowing and a rapier from somewhere stuck through your side, pinning you to the wall.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You senses numb.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You see his horn glowing again, as you lose focus, something else suddenly stabbing into you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hear silence.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Until you dont.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, eyes coming back into focus, something...behind him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Something, subtly, making faint noise, drawing your attention, as if you were connected to it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, that should hold you while I-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You scream, and scream.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Pushing off the wall, pulling yourself free.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile wickedly at his surprised expression, as you stumble froward, pulling the two Rapiers out of yourself, and tossing them to the ground.</span><br />&quot;Well....Guess you making me a zombie has its benefits.&quot; You say, nearly touching noses with him.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;For the first time, you see actual fear in those damned eyes of his.</span><br />&quot;And I think I know how to stop this too.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;He makes the mistake of looking behind him at the artifact.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You kick him across the top of his desk, and jump on top of it, ready to fight as you see his horn glow, the rapiers appearing infront of him.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Chrysalis, Hiss as you slam into the wall, before rolling out of the way as the Blue one slams into it right where your head just was.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Thankfully, only Twilight, Applejack, and Rainbow were really fighting you, Rarity hardly even tossing things your direction, and Pinkie Pie mostly just firing her Damnable Party cannon or taking kicks at you if you got close.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Still, even for you a three on one with an Alicorn was not in your favor.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But looking over, Anon needed more time.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I Dont know what your planning Chrysalis, but we wont let yo-&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You fire a shot at Twilight, not expecting to hit but just wanting her mouth to stop.</span><br />&quot;Ah yes, of course, I must be planning something here, it is impossible for me to simply think this threat is one to me aswell, and greater then you could ever be to me.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You give her a smile, your only answer a snort as Applejack and Dash charge forward, Twilight firing off a beam at you, which you expertly reflect, forcing Rainbow Dash to swerve off course.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You get in a small scuffle, but manage to trow the Earth pony away, panting as you fire off a few of your own blasts to keep them distracted.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You weren't going to win this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Worse, you weren't sure hoe much more you had in you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Why are you even helping him?!&quot; Rainbow dash pipes up.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile, a full on grin as you flick your wings.</span><br />&quot;Well, I guess you ponies taught me the value of friendship afterall! You feeling proud yet?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Applejack spits. &quot;Aint no way YOU know what friendship is.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Well, keep thinking what you will, but im not letting one roof past me either way.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hiss, lurching forward, horn glowing, fangs ready to bite.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Anon Grimaced as you blocked another incoming swing, allowing the other rapier to get a poke in on him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You swing wide, forcing him to make some distance, before you lurch forward and miss another opening, slamming your weapon hard on the ground.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Slow, sloppy, you really are not experienced in this, are you?&quot; He says as you feel your back get stabbed a few times.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spin around, hitting one of the hard enough to knock it out of his magics grasp, before turning and finally seeing your actual target open.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Swinging hard for the Artifact you felt drawn to, you miss as he whisks it over to himself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, clever, but not so much as you think. You really are wasting your time with this. &quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He corrects his glasses as you regain your footing, weapon raised and ready.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well? Nothing? Silence? Surly you have SOMETHING To say?&quot;</span><br />&quot;Fuck you cunt.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Ah, well, fair enough.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You go for a swing, but his speed is too quick, and suddenly the Rapier is hilt deep in you, holding you back.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, it HAS been fun, but you have forced me to reveal the correct Item, Smart ill admit, but it means I no longer can afford to play games and must depart.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, slowly, take a step.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then another.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slowly gaining ground against his telekinesis.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He ignores this, looking around the room for something.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Now, wheres my Teleporter stone, hmmm....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You grind your teeth as he starts walking off, putting more distance between you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You realize you have to do something, something drastic, if your gonna catch him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;looking down at the handle, you frown.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And bringing up your Weapon, get ready for what you had to do.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Luckily, you were dead, so a few broken ribs weren't so bad, as you pound against the rapier til the handle bends and breaks.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The blade flies through and out the back of your body, embedding itself into the wall, as you turn, letting the handle follow suit.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Unicorn swerves around, but not before you have full on tackled him against a bookself.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You Bring your pipe across his face, his glasses flying away in broken chunks, before you start getting pelted in the face by books as he magically flings them at you.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;As you slump to the ground, you spot Chrysalis, pinned against the wall by Twilight's magic.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;No time left, that meant you had to finish this.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stand up, smiling, as you hold up your hand.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He leers at you, before His eyes go wide as you show him the Amulet.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Then he smiles, horn glowing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well, now how will you EVER destroy it though?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile back, looking as he aims his horn at you, clearly charging some spell.</span><br />&quot;The only way id expect is possible.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You charge forward, ignoring as he blasts a hole through your chest, then another, before, right as he charges up another, you do it.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Slamming the Center gem down on his horn, you push.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Push and push.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Until it shatter, the damnable thing slipping down onto the bastards horn.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;No...OH FUCK WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!?&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Unicorn screams, clawing at the thing with his hoof as more and more Energy Builds up on his forehead.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hardly notice as the Six ponies All gather behind you, looking in awe and fear as the energy slowly becomes blinding, Twilight Quick to throw up a Shield around her and her friends.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You laugh, throwing out your arms, head rolling back as you fall to your knees.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;you laugh, as suddenly the energy explodes, and your world becomes white.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The light fades, and you lay, staring up at the ceiling, smiling as you cough.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Looking down, you notice you have no legs, and one arm is missing.</span><br />&quot;Heh....Fuck you too, Ya piece of shit.&quot; You say, letting your head slump back.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Already, you could feel it, your body slowly dying.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And just as suddenly, out of the corner of your eye, you see her.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Chrysalis, Free, running over and flopping down at your side.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She, slowly, puts a hoof on you, leaning down on your chest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Tears drip down, hitting your face like cool snow melting.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Well.....You did it....You reckless bastard...&quot; she says, smiling.</span><br />&quot;Hah...Yup...&quot; You reach up, patting her cheek.<br />&quot;WE did it...&quot; You add, taking note of your hand.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Already, it was visibly aging, decaying.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You could only guess the rest of you was following.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;She sniffles, before burying her head against your chest.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You brush at her mane, chuckling.</span><br />&quot;We did it....And fuck them all, fuck the universe, WE did it. Damned all they threw at us, we saw it through to the end, and no fucking pony or creature can say we didn't.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;She raises her head, chuckling a bit herself, before wiping at her tears.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;So we did....so we did......&quot; She frowns, wings twitching as she shakes her head slowly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I...I cant believe it....I dont want to lose you....ME, Queen of the changelings.....A Useless title....I...I have no one else.....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile weakly, wiping a tear from her face.</span><br />&quot;Im...sorry....But you're strong, Best damned Queen ive ever met. You'll be fine. You'll find your way along.....you'll find your way...&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;And with that, you see your hand crumble away, and your world goes black.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Chrysalis, Sit there, holding nothing but dust as you suck in air, trying to regain your composure.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You pick up what little was left of Anons shirt, stuffing it between your necklace, before suddenly, something catches your ear.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You turn, Eyes full of shock, along with the other six mares, as laughter fills the room.</span><br />&quot;No....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stare, as the burned, blackened form of the Unicorn stands up shakily, Laughing madly as he tries to stay standing.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;You...You foolish ponies....think....think this is OVER?! HA! You fools have no idea what is coming, what my Master has planned....this was just....a step, a Single part of a bigger picture.....I was hired to do this....and there will be others after me....&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He breaks out into more laughter, everyone staring as he stumbles around, barely able to stand.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;I....Your....You're going to....Have to come with me!&quot; Twilight says, trying to actually look determined as she shakily points her horn at him.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;He smiles.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Me, or HER.&quot;</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A stone suddenly flies across the room and into his grip, before he teleports away.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;OH NO YOU DO NOT!&quot; Twilight yells, Teleporting away herself, Tracking where he went.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You simply watch all this with little interest, and simply turn as one of the others addresses you after Twilight had left.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;&quot;Stay right there Chrysalis, yer not getting away either.&quot;</span><br />&quot;Well, your wrong on that.&quot; You say, and with a magical burst, push them all back.<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Quickly, you dash across the room to the desk, and finding what you were after, turn, running out before they can recover.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;The Unicorns Journal Tight in your grasp, you run out of the cave, catching a glimpse off to the side as Twilight corners the Unicorn, who lights himself on fire with a laugh, before he collapses into ash.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You slip down the mountain, into the trees, and are gone.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Holding tight to the journal.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;If the Unicorn was working for someone, you were going to find out who.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And you would make them feel your wrath.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;And thus, another Chapter ends, but the story never truly does.</span><br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />EPILOGUE:<br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You, Anon, feel....weightless.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Peaceful even.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;which snaps you...awake, as they just felt wrong.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You stand, in a great white expanse, in white robes, quite confused.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;WELL HELLO YOUNG ONE!&quot; [/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You spin around, the voice coming from everywhere and no where.</span><br />&quot;Uhh....hi?&quot;<br />[spoiler] &quot;Yes, Hello Anon Mous! Migh, what an Adventure you have been on, quite impressive! Love the speech at the end, you really know your words!&quot; [/spoiler]<br />&quot;I...Thank you? Wha....whats going on here? IS this....Purgatory?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;The voice laughs, but a kind, gentle laugh.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;If that is what you want it to be. Either way, it is a place of....well, record keeping and decision making, lets say that. [/spoiler]<br />&quot;Oh...so your here to decide if I should burn in hell or not?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;It sighs, and somehow you know its shaking its head.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;Not quite, thats my brother. No , im here because your death was a chink, a crack, it didn't happen correctly, see? Now, I know you don't like fate, don't worry, nothing is actually that set in stone. Still! You died and then you came back, in a completely different world! Not supposed to happen, no It is not. Only when one reincarnates as a creature of that world is that allowed.&quot; [/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You look around, scratching your head.</span><br />&quot;I...guess I understand? But I don't see what im here for, it already happened.&quot;<br />[spoiler] &quot;Ah but see? Because you were never supposed to be in Equestia, your death there is invalid. Or maybe its not? Were here to decide on that, together!&quot;[/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, and look down, thinking.</span><br />&quot;I....I dont know if I deserve to live....I....&quot;<br />[spoiler]&quot;Oh...OH! No no no Anon, this isnt about your MORALS or DEEDS, its about whether your death was legitimately handed out, due to the nature of the fact you should never have been there to die in the first place!&quot;[/spoiler]<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You nod, slowly.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You scratch your chin.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You cant help but think of Chrysalis, alone now.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;But....</span><br />&quot;It.....it was....&quot;<br />[spoiler] &quot;Oh? Really now? Please, I love hearing peoples opinions!&quot; [/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You smile, the voice never seeming mocking or unkind, though you did sense a hint of amusement.</span><br />&quot;I...I died back on earth....I should've been dead there, this was just fixing what should of already happened....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;you sigh.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hated yourself a bit, but you knew it was true.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Morals or Deeds withstanding, you had made your mistakes, and had died from them.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;Ah...yes, sadly, I must agree. &quot;[/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Silence fills the expanse.</span><br />&quot;So....what now?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel a warmth, a smile.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;Now, I hand you off to my brother, and he decides where you go!&quot; [/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You hear a rustling of papers, and something getting up from a chair.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A second later, something else sits down, its own papers Rustling.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;A nearly identical, but subtly different voice speaks up.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;Hello Anon. Well, you lived an interesting life didn't you. Not bad nooooot.....bad.&quot; [/spoiler]<br />&quot;I...thanks?&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;you feel it nod.</span><br />[spoiler]&quot;Now, onto business....lemme see....well, to seems your attitude, this time around, is keen on reincarnation. Hmm....well, I can do that yeah, you lived a well enough life.&quot; [/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You blink, mind racing.</span><br />&quot;But....I...Canterlot....I sided with Chrysalis....I....&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You feel a soft, understanding smile upon you.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;You did what you thought you had to, what, mostly, you thought was right. None can expect more from an creature. Morals are not so set in stone my little one, even if some things will always be seen as more taboo then not.&quot; [/spoiler]<br />&quot;I...Ok.....I guess...&quot;<br /><br />&lt;<span class="co4">&gt;&lt;&gt;&lt;&gt;</span><br /><br />[spoiler] &quot;SPLENDID! Now, lets see here, where should we put ya? OH! Theres an opening back on earth? Ooo, heres one similar, but everyones randomly colored! Heh, no racism there I bet, sounds nice right? Filantria....Guamitin Galaxy....Hmm, Equestia.....&quot; [/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;You snap your attention upwards, arms going out, hands in fists.</span><br />&quot;YES! EQUESTRIA! SEND ME THERE!&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;you feel a soft, kind, but sad smile fall over the place.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;Oh Anon...Few ever remember their memories from their past life, and it would be years before your old enough for them to surface, much less be fit to look for her...&quot; [/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Your mind races, focusing on the image of Chrysalis.</span><br /><span class="co4">&gt;Alone, your last friend, the last one you had ever had a connection to.</span><br />&quot;Ill be the exception, ill remember her.&quot;<br />[spoiler] &quot;You might not even appear in Equestria, it is a big, undiscovered world....you might end up taking a lifetime to even reach the same lands as her...&quot;[/spoiler]<br />&quot;Then ill march for that lifetime.&quot;<br /><span class="co4">&gt;Silence fills the place, and you get your answer.</span><br />[spoiler] &quot;So be it, I do, I really do, hope you the best. For no matter what happens...that world is heading for the darkest times its ever seen....[/spoiler]<br /><span class="co4">&gt;And just like that, everything fades, and you feel your new life beginning.</span><br /><br /><span class="co4">&gt;End of Epilogue.</span></div></div>




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