Disclaimer: I own nothing from the My Little Pony Friendship is magic franchise, I only own the story and the OC that I created.
Chapter 5.
With nothing more than a smile in response, Twilight grabs the unconcious Spike, throws him across her back and heads for the door with me in hot pursuit. She then uses her magic to open it and we charge at speed in the direction of the library in order to find some clue as to Nightmare Moons location. I already now this but I am stuck due to the fact that I cannot divulge my pre-knowledge of their world and history, or else I may cause harm for future events that may or may not be irreversible. While my mind wonders on varied thoughts, we arrive at the library in short order with Twilight heading straight upstairs with Spike so that she can put him to bed for the night.
I remain down in the library proper and reminisce about how I met one of my best friends. When I had first met him, I had taken him to be a... rather eccentric mage-librarian with a penchant for shakespearean type dialogue, which oddly enough was focused more in the vain of insults. I could hardely believe it when I first heard him speak in such a manner, so bad was it infact that I had to literally look up what he was even saying so that I could translate it into english. And boy was I surprised at how well he could insult and curse in such a unique and utterly uncompromising way!
My mind is brought back to the present as Twilight comes down the stairs and proceeds to rampage through the shelves in search of a certain book, one which, I just so happen to be standing besides.
"Elements! Elements! Elements! Uugh! How can we save Nightmare Moon without the Elements of Harmony!?" Twilight exclaims as she pulls various books towards her; she is not a very tidy librarian pony is she?
"And just what are the Elements of Harmony?" What and How?! I look over in shock, as Rainbow Dash seems to appear from out of nowhere inside the library."And how is it that the two of you know about Nightmare Moon, huh?! Are you both spies!?" She says getting right in Twilights face.
You know? She can seems to be far more abrasive and headstrong when you actually meet her in the flesh.
"Whoa!" She squeaks as AppleJack- how in the hay did they all get in here? I mean really? Are they practitioners of the ninja arts or something?!
"Simmer down sally, they ain't no spies, but they sure do know whats going on, don't ya Twilight? Ranger?" Oh boy, that tone right there leaves no room for argument Twilight, just speak up and give her what she wants and I'll help fill in when required.
"I read all about the prediction of Nightmare Moon, some mysterious objects know as the Elements of Harmony are the only thing that can stop or help her. But I don't know what they are, where to find them, I don't even know what they do!" That's my que.
"Ahem. Perhaps this might be of some help, no?" I relpy hold up a certain book.
"What do you mean?" Twilight asks.
"This book just so happens to be titled 'The Elements of Harmony: A Reference Guide'." I say walking up to the group.
"How did you find that?" She queries wide eyed.
"It was under 'E'. I dearly suggest that, from this point forward, you properly organise and catalogue all the books in this library." Deadpan. Gotta love it.
"Oh." Awww, she is so cute when she blushes like that.
"There are six Elements of Harmony but only five are known, Kindness, Laughter, Generosity, Honesty and Loyalty." I galnce over at the other five ponies and pretty much agree with which pony gets which element. "The sixth, is a complete mystery. It is said that the last known location of the five Elements, was in the ancient castle of the royal pony sisters. It is located in what is now t-t-t-the Everfree Forest!" OK! All-ahead STOP!
What is this!? I mean... What the flying F...! FFFF! FFPPPTTT! Gaaah! This is just impossible! The entirety of the background just phased out leaving us at the entrance to the Everfree Forest. And would you just look at them! They act as though this is a perfectly natural part of every-day life! I cannot cope with this shhhh...shhhh! Pete's Sake! Come on! Just once? Just moooo... mootttttthhh! I WILL utter a blistering stream of profanities upon this world even if I have to die to do so, do you hear me!?
And do you want to know what makes this situation worse? I don't have my hammer with me. Yes, my weapon was left behind at the library, and we are about to enter a forest where we will have to fight the local wildlife nearly every step of the way. My right eye twitches as an unamused smile makes its presence felt, leading me to once again glance at the other ponies whom are all slightly leaning back in fear of the place. That is untill Pinkie Pie speaks.
"Whee, let's go!" She says taking a few steps forward before coming to an abrupt halt at Twilights interference.
"Not so fast. Look, I appreciate the offer but I'd really rather do this on my own." Wait, what about me?
"No can do sugar-cube, we sure ain't letting any friend" Wow, look at that cringe. "of ours go into that creppy place alone. We're sticking to you like caramel on a candy apple." Saying this she and all the others start walking into the forest ahead of us, with Pinkie falling behind to give her two cents.
"Especially if there's candy apples in there." I blink. what more needs to be done? "What? Those things are good." Aaand she walks off. Glancing at Twilight, I see a slightly dejected look upon her face so I try to cheer her up.
"Don't you worry about a thing Twilight, no matter what happens from this point forward, know that we are in this together." Determination laced my voice, and a smile graces my lips. Well, can you blame me? I mean the elements are already with uss-! Oh god no! They are ahead of us! "Whoa nelly! They are getting ahead of us , we had best catch up to them!" I grab Twilight and start to move at speed after the others, practically dragging Twilight along behind me.
"Whoa! I can walk you know!?" She calls out indignantly, but I just ignore that and, if anything, pull on her even faster untill we catch up to the lead group. Reunited, we travel a ways in silence with me keeping myself alert for any kind of agression from the animals around us.
"So, none of you have been in here before?" Twilight asks quietly.
"Oh, heavens no! Just look at it, it's dreadful!" Rarity answers, her voice leaden with fear.
"And it ain't natural, folks say that it don't work the same as Equestria." Applejack speaks up, sounding a little nervous.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Twilight responds, fear now crepping into her mind.
"No pony knows!" Oh yeah, nice work Rainbow! We really need them to feel terror as we travel through this place! "You know why?" She is creeping up on the other three ponies in such a weird manner. I feel like I should be the adult in this situation but Applejack has that covered. Slightly.
"Rainbow, quit it!" Yeah. Like that is going to work. I even think deadpan, that probably means it is my special talent or something.
"Cause every pony who has ever come in... never, comes, OUT!" CRACK! We all hold still, frozen in place at that ominous sound. I can only utter a two words.
"Oh, pooh." With that, the cliff that we were all standing on then collapses beneath our hooves, sending everyone except the two pegasai tumbling down the steep slope towards the chasm at the bottom.
As we all tumble down, I only wonder about the how. I mean, in the show it was Nightmare Moon who did it out of a malicous intent, but I am pretty sure that with the confrontation this time around that she could not have done anything like that. Or it could be that she did it to try and keep a sense of solitude due to said confrontation. Oh there is so much I can try to theorise but the immediate threat to our lives needs to be sorted out first. Skidding down the hill, I see Rarity and Pinkie being save by the two pegasai and Applejack saving herself, leaving only me and Twilight.
Who then starts sliding over the-! Leaping forward and sliding on my belly, I catch her just as she slides over the edge, catching her hoof and halting her descent. Breathing a sigh of relief, I then realise that she won't be able to understand Applejacks' role as the Element of Honesty; thinking so I start to pull Twilight up. CRACK! You know? I hate my life sometime. Yeah, as you guessed, the part of the cliff I am resting on now starts to break away taking me and Twilight with it! Frantically I look around, spotting Applejack moving towards us I call out for her to catch Twilight; saying this I throw Twilight at her as the section of cliff starts to fall from sight.
This wouldn't be the first time I ever fell from a great height, but, for the girls, this is probably looks like I'm falling to my death here, as evidenced by them all screaming my name. I turn to look at the fast approaching earth and prepare for the landing, but in all seriousness, this won't even hurt. Three... two... one... CRASH! CRACK! Driving power into my legs, I hammer into the ground with tremedous force cracking the earth for tens of meters from the impact point; leaving me in a little crater, cool as ice. Oooh, yeah. I just need a pair of sunglasses to complete the image.
Cracking my neck I then look up at the other ponies who are being helped down, leaving Applejack with Twilight in her hooves, dangling from the side of the cliff. Once Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy drop off Pinkie Pie and Rarity they then fly up to catch Twilight as she lets go of Applejack at her own request. Seeing that everone is safe and sound I exit the crater and walk up to the group who, for lack of a better word, stand there stupified. Well, who can blame them? They just saw me drop some thrity plus meters down a cliff and survive without so much as a scratch, for most normal ponies, that would be an incredible feat in and of itself.
"What?" I ask of them, as they stand there, bug-eyed and their mouths wide open.
"You... how... what?" Elegantly put, my dear Rainbow Dash.
"I'm just that tough. What more do you want from me?" Simple answer for a simple question.
"That... doesn't explain anything! I know that I am pretty tough, but a fall like that would have still hurt." An incredulous response from Rainbow, and all I do is smirk right back at her, but I keep my mouth shut if only to keep the peace between us. "What are you smirking at?" Should I...? Nah. Or maybe...
"Just admiring your eyes." With this I turn and walk away, leaving her as a stuttering mess. Who knew that it would be this fun to mess with Rainbow Dash? If there is anyone else who finds themselves in this situation in some parallel dimension or whatever, you should most definitly try messing with Rainbow Dash. I do however feel that weird prickling sensation on the back of my neck however, so all sense of levity is gone, replaced with vigilance and caution. Though in retrospect, if I had actually bothered to take in my surroundings, I might have noticed a certain purple unicorn glaring rather sharply in my direction.
Not more than a few minutes pass and Rainbow finally finishes retelling the tale of how she saved Twilight from falling from the cliff, much to the relief of the rest of us. As I hear Twilight talk to Rainbow Dash, I then (finally) notice the big cat standing before us. Well, to be precise it's actually-!
"A Manticore!" Yeah, thats it exactly. This manticore is still cartoonized, but nevertheless still looks like said creature: the main body resembles that of an adult male lion, large wings that would belong to a dragon or a bat, I would have to have a more in depth look so as to tell the actual difference, and lastly a fat scorpions tail...hmmm. Correct me if I'm wrong, but the last I had heard about scorpions is that the fatter the tail the more venomous it is? Yeah that's... right... Oh, hay seeds. You get stung with that and you are in for a world of hurt.
"We've got to get passed him." Twilight spoke. Fluttershy however looks on with apprehension, knowing full well what is wrong with the creature. Wait a minute. Is there really a thorn this time around? Or is it somethign completely different? Whilst I am standing here, Rarity rucks up to the beast and delivers a kick to its face, earning her a rather... poofy... hairstyle. She then runs from it and and Applejack steps up, all of this happens while Fluttershy tries, in her own shy way, to get everyponies attention.
Applejack lasts for a few seconds rodio style, before finally getting flung off its back, leaving it up to Rainbow Dash. I can only watch as she starts to fly in circles around the manticore creating a rainbow coloured vortex with it at the center, only stopping when it contemptuously, swats her aside with the blunt end of its sting. Causing Twilight to call out the girls name in shock. All the girls, sans Fluttershy then prep themselves for a charge against it. Now I know Fluttershy will get their attention, but I think I should make a small contribution to this scene. So I just raise my right forehoof and slam it down to the ground, causing a small ewarthquake in the vicinity, thereby gaining everyponies attention.
"Fluttershy? Do you think you can handle this?" Might as well ask the question, if only to avoid unnecessary, probing questions in turn.
"Thank you Ranger." She says before turning to the beast. "Shh, it's ok." She says gently nuzzling its injured paw, causing it to look at her, then to its paw. Before slowly turning it over so that she can inspect it, revealing a little thorn in the middle of its pads. Now, for those amoong you who do not know this, but dogs get like this themselves whenever they get a thorn in their pads as well, causing probles while walking and some degree of discomfort.
"Oh, you poor, poor little baby." Soft, comforting words from Fluttershy help ease it's distrust towards us.
"Little?" Rainbow Dash cannot help but respond in disbelief.
"Now this might hurt for juuust a second." Ok, prepare for the pain fuelled roar, now. So roaring, it picks up Fluttershy, causing the others to call out to her in fear. Only for said fear to give way to relief as the manticore proceeds to show its appreciation for her kindness. While that happens, both myself and the girls walk up to and passed the creature as it finally releases Fluttershy, smiling at her. They both then part ways as Twilight and I wait for her to catch up to us.
"How did you know about the thorn?" She says to Fluttershy, who is now sporting a new rocking hairstyle.
"I didn't. Sometime we all need to be shown a little kindness." She says as she prepare to walk away, only to look over her shoulder at me. "I have to thank you as well, for giving me the oportunity to help the poor baby." Aw, ain't that sweet of her?
"Ah, no worries. I just assumed that, after your showing with those birds before, that you had a talent with a wide variety of animals. I do confess though, that I didn't know just how wide that net went, nor if it included things like that manticore." I am not very sure if either of them will by it, but given the nature of the ponies in Equestria, I feel like it should be enough. And would you know it? They did by it. This is going to be one bad habit to break when the time comes.
I glance back at the thorn, just to confirm some of my suspicions. God... darnit. Sadly, it does look like Nightmare Moon is the one behind all this, but why though? I don't really get it. The way she left... yes, that must be it. She does not want to have to deal with others in the state that she is currently in, so she is doing all that she can to keep us away from her; and that means that I'll have to make sure that all the girls here do not react with violence when we finally meet her again.
That being said, we continue on our merry way, all six of us-wait what!? Where the fuuu-fuuunny bones, did Pinkie go?! I mean.. how does she disappear and reappear so... so... so quietly? I mean really, I know she can be quiet and all ninja goddes on occasions but, I mean how and why is she so fundamentally godlike in so many aspects? Fourth wall breakages aside however, I kind of see what is going to happen to us next.
"Ohh, my eyes need a break from all this icky muck." Rarity comments. And yes; trees, now begin to cover us from above, leaving in in darkness. Nothing pitch black mind you, just leaving us enough light to see vague outlines of our surroundings.
"Well I didn't mean it literally." That's as maybe Rarity, but now we have to deal with it. I mean really, it isn't that hard... one question comes to mind though. Why don't either Rarity or Twilight use a simple luminescence spell to light up the night as it were?
"That ancient ruin could be right in front of our faces and we wouldn't even know it." Twilight... you should calm down a bit before you cause panic amongst our friends here...? Since when were all these girls my friends?
I actually look at all the girls around me, staring in stark amazement at my own admission. I barely met them for the most part and see them as friends? Is this the logic of Equestria? Cause if so, then it is... is...? I... really don't know. It does feel nicer than the one I was born and raised in up till now, but, maybe, they are just a bit too naïve when it comes to relationships like this. I honestly don't know if this is something I can accept so easily. I mean, me and Twilight have had the most interaction than all the other girls due to us meeting as we had before arriving in Ponyville, so that makes her the oldest acquaintance I have here. Wait. My actions up till now have been a bit too friendly... have I been changed psychologically in some way to conform to the mindset that is native to Equestria?
My slowly depressing musings are cut short thanks to a ton of shrill screaming, leaving my ears ringing. Heh. Rhymes. I cast my glare at our surroundings to ascertain the threat, only to see some trees with cartoonish faces that, for some reason, the others all find scary enough to scream at. I just give them a slightly amused look, only to, again, lose focus due to a certain pink pony laughing; and sure enough, there she stands, face to figurative face, with this 'scary' tree. Laughing.
Yeah. Now she is making lots of random faces to the tree. I don't know why, but I seem to feel slightly... awkward watching this.
"Pinkie! What are you doing? Run!" Twilight calls out in fear. Not really needed but, there you go. Wait... oh good god NO!
"Oh, girls. Don't you see?" Dear Christ, here it comes.
"When I was a little filly, and the sun was going do-o-o-o-own." Pinkie starts singing.
("Tell me she's not-" Twilight begins before Pinkie interrupts her.)
"The darkness and the shadows, they always make me fr-o-o-o-own." She continues.
("She is." Rarity confirms what the world already knows.)
"I'd hide under my pillow, from what I thought I saw."
"But Granny Pie said that wasn't the way, to deal with fears at all."
("Then what is?" Rainbow Dash interjects.)
"She said 'Pinkie, you gotta stand up tall. Learn to face your fears."
"You'll see that they can't hurt you, just laugh to make them disappear."
"Ha! Ha! Ha!" *Poof* *Sproing* Yeah. That cartoonish sound effect right there... just no. The girls all gasp around me in amazement at Pinkies, for lack of a better word, banishment of the scary tree. I just walk up to one of the trees and lean against it with an amused smirk attached to my face.
"So, giggle at the ghostie, guffaw at the grossly."
"Crack up at the creepy, whoop it up with the weepy."
"Chortle at the kooky, snortle at the spooky."
"And tell that big dumb scary face to take a hike and leave you alone and if he thinks he can scare you then he's got another thing coming and the very idea of such a thing just makes you wanna Hahahaha hahaha oh. Laugh!"
I just stand there leaning against the only tree left that has its scary face, while all the girls are collapsed on the ground laughing themselves into what I think is a stupor. Not too much time passes as they get themselves back into some semblance of control, and see me leaning against the last scary tree, and they all start to give me a look. I sigh, and turn to the poor tree.
"Ahem. Giggle. Chuckle. Guffaw." *Poof* *Sproing*
"Splendid little diversion, but I fear we must be on our way. Can't keep our little alicorn waiting for too long now can we." So saying, I just walk off in some random direction, only to come to a halt thanks to Twilight speaking.
"You do realize that you are heading back to Ponyville, right?" She asks, barely holding her composure, and the others are not much better.
"...I knew that. Just making sure you where paying attention." I then walk of in another direction before stopping, turning back and doing the one thing no bloke has ever done before. "You wouldn't happen to know where this castle is located then?" ...I blush upon realizing how obvious the question is. My blush only gets worse as all the girls start to laugh at my expense, but I can't keep a few embarrassed chuckles from escaping my lips.
They all just start to walk off at quite a pace with me following; still laughing mind you, but moving in what I hope is the right direction. I mean seriously, there is no kind of directional indication in the show as to whether or not this is the route to the castle. Now that I come to think about it, how do they even know where it is to begin with? Did the book even say where it was? If we take a look back, we will see that we never got further than the book telling us that it was located in the Everfree Forest, so... how do we-I mean Twilight even knows where to go?
My confused musings are cut short. Again. All due to the fact that I walked face first into Fluttershy's rear... Wow. Her rump is soft-NONONONONONO! Get your sickly mind out of the gutter you filthy, filthy stallion! That is inappropriate and I will dually apologize to her for causing such and affront upon her body. I will take no argument from anypony about this...? Is that... Steven Magnet? The sea serpent? God dang he cuts a fine figure... no this is not attraction, but rather admiration for his appearance-OH MY GOD! What the hay happened to that poor mustache!?
But in all seriousness, it is Steven Magnet! We are currently at the raging river with him right now, this is awesome, I get to have a few words with him, maybe. Well, after he regains his composure.
"Excuse me sir, why are you crying?" Twilight asks.
"Well, I don't know. I was just sitting here, minding my own business when this, tacky little cloud of purple smoke just-just, whisked passed me, and tore half of my beloved mustache clean off! And now, I look simply horrid!" Saying so he crashes back into the river, causing a splash so great that it drenches all seven of us, manes and tails just limp due to the amount of saturation.
"Give me a break." Rainbow speaks in a low tone.
"That's what all the fuss is about?" Applejack... you cannot know the amount of pride a man feels when he has a well kept bit of facial hair. And in this case, I have to say it...
"Why of course it is! How can you be so insensitive." Rarity beats me to the punch, but I will have my say in this, I swear it.
"Oh just look at him. Such lovely luminescent scales." Too true ma'am. I nod to the confusion of the rest of the group.
"I know." Steven speaks quietly.
"And your expertly coifed mane."
"Oh, I know, I know" Slowly adjusting it a little with his hand.
"Your fabulous manicure."
"Oh, it's so true" Indeed it is.
"All ruined without your beautiful mustache." I hear ya Rarity.
"It's true, I'm hideous!" He laments, the poor man. Wait, what?
"I simply cannot let such a crime against fabulosity go uncorrected!" So saying, she pulls a scale from Steven.
"OW! What did you do that for?" He asked in pained confusion.
"Rarity, what are you-?!" That's as far as she gets as Rarity, off screen, slices off a large portion of her tail, with a slashing type of sound effect. I do admit that when I first heard that, coupled with Stevens over-reaction, I thought she had killed him for a second. Yes, rather stupid of me I admit, but I was just too immersed in what I was watch at the time. As we stand and stare at Rarity, she then discards the scale, then using her magic picks up her tail and attaches it to Stevens face, right where the damaged part of his mustache was... that doesn't seem very hygienic. Still looks good though.
"Oh-ho-ho-ho! My mustache! How wonderful!" HE says striking a man-pose.
"You look smashing." Very good job Rarity. I think a smile upon my lips.
"Oh Rarity, your beautiful tail." Twilight comes up all concerned.
"Oh, it's fine my dear, short tails are in this season. Besides, it'll grow back." Indeed it will. Just a heck of a lot faster than you would think.
"So would the mustache." An annoyed Rainbow whispers to Twilight. Oh! Best get my bit in quick.
"Sir? Might I congratulate you upon your gentlemanly appearance." I say in an upper-class British elitist accent.
"Oh, good stallion, I thank you for your compliment, you cut a fine figure yourself." Steven responds.
"May I be frank?" At his nod, I continue. "When I first saw you, I saw a well kept, and well mannered gentleman. But imagine my horror upon seeing the brutality done upon your mustache! I was filled with both sorrow and anger at such a sight. But, with this young mare's generous gift, your image is back to pristine condition." Holy heee... heee...heck. Do I lay it on think or what?
"Oh, my good sir you are a pet. Thank you for your wonderful accolades." Huh. I think I made a new friend.
[PLAY 'THE MOUSTACHE SONG' - A MILLION WAYS TO DIE IN THE WEST]
I don't know where this music is coming from, but I will sing with gusto to show my love of the mustache. Which is something I have not been able to grow naturally. Sadly.
You colts who long for love
You mustn't all despair
There's a secret you should know
To capture the hearts of the fair
You may not have the looks
You may not have the dash
But you'll win yourself a girl
If you've only got a moustache
A moustache
A moustache
If you've only got a moustache
All the girls look at me for my impromptu song out of nowhere, but Steven looks appreciative.
You may be common folk
Without a hint of pride
But you needn't be a king
To make any maiden a bride
You may not have the name
You may not have the cash
But you'll make that mare you're own
If you've only got a moustache
A moustache
A moustache
If you've only got a moustache
The girls are bobbing their heads left and right in time with the tune as well as Steven, all smiles. Glad they like it.
You may be big and fat
Or uglier than sin
All the ladies shut you out
You're wondering how to get in
Well here is my advice
For how to make a splash
You can have your pick of gals
If you've only got a moustache
A moustache
A moustache
If you've only got a moustache
A moustache
A moustache
A moustache
Big moustache
Thick moustache
My moustache
Your moustache
Say the word, the word 'moustache'
I then point to Steven, giving a cue to join in.
A moustache
A moustache
Now we both have said 'moustache'
A moustache
A moustache
If you've only got a moustache
Holding my right hoof up to indicate Stevens moustache, I end the song. A proud smile on my face and a very proud stance to show my full appreciation for such fine facial hair. The girls all smile. Twilight gets her priorities straight though.
"*Gasp* We can cross now. Lets go-uaaagh!" She then steps into the river and starts to cross it. All before Steven intercepts her with his serpentine body, lifting her out of the water to give us all a drier crossing point.
"Allow me." He then dives into the water. We all, then start to jump from each mound formed from his body to the other side.
After we all landed safely on the other bank, we all turn and thank him for the help rendered in getting us across the river, with me telling him that, should our paths cross again, that we should talk over a nice cup of tea and some biscuits which he agrees to. I wave him off as we depart, before turning to see the smiles from all six ponies before me.
"...What?" I ask confused.
"I didn't take you for a colt of fashion Ranger. That was a pleasant surprise for me, we should talk a bit when we have more time." Oh god no. I was never one for fashion, but now it seems like I have a date with Rarity. Spike is going to throw a fit.
"I have to agree with Rarity on this, I thought you were a bit of a jerk when we first met, but I see that you are an alright guy once I got to know you better. I kinda wonder what else there is about you that will be cool and awesome." Rainbow, stop. You make me blush.
"Thanks girls, I just do what I can, nothing more." I say.
"Now don' go sellin' yerself short there sugarcube, you are a might more friendly than you make yerself out ta be." I smile at Applejack for her input, but I think I should drop a bit of a bomb on them here and now, long before it gets to the point of being 'too late'.
"Thanks Applejack but, I never was good at making friends, enemies yes but friends no." That shocks them a bit as we keep moving forwards.
"Wait. What do you mean by that?" Twilight picks up for everypony.
"Well... I already told you how I started out Twilight, but the rest of the girls never heard the tale, nor the one on how we first met. I won't talk about it right now, but once we have saved Nightmare Moon from herself, and returned home to Ponyville, then I will tell the rest of you about it."
They seem to accept it, and we continue on our way. Eventually, we leave the forest and reach a large clearing revealing the ruins of the pony sisters, and I have to admit that it does look more impressive in real life, rather than as an image from a TV screen.
"There it is!" Twilight calls out in excitement. "The ruin that holds the Elements of Harmony, we made it!"
"Looks like it." I say in response, but something tickles the back of my mind about this scene, but for the life of me...? Oh heck no! Twilight! She then runs forward without any care in the world, despite all the dangers and obstacles we encountered before hoof.
"Twilight, wait fer us!" Applejack calls out.
"We're almost there!" Twilight says looking back to us, causing a near fatal accident with regards to herself and the sheer drop that stands between us and our ultimate goal. Scrambling she tries to back up, but help comes in the form of Rainbow Dash.
"What is it with you and falling off cliffs today?" She says in humor. All of us look at the collapsed bridge with uncertain looks. Me? I could jump that easy enough, and I could carry the other girls across as well but that would be a bit much for them I think.
"Now what?" Pinkie exclaims.
"Duh." Rainbow responds, twiddling her wings.
"Oh yeah." Pinkie says, watching Rainbow take off to pick up the bridge, so as to reattach it on the other side. I on the other hoof keep a careful eye out for the 'Shadow Bolts', Nightmare's attempt at seducing Rainbow into leaving her friends behind for her own desires. And would you look at that, there they are. I sigh, shacking my head slightly, staring across the gap at the illusion held up by Nightmare.
"Rainbow! What's taking so long?" She then spots Rainbow talking to the Shadow Bolts on the other side. "Oh no. Rainbow don't listen to them!" Even as she shouts, the fog only grows thicker, obscuring her voice, stopping her from interfering with what is going on.
"Oh no! We have to do something! Guys, any ideas?" She asks, looking at us. It is best that I calm them down before they try anything.
"Twilight." I say, catching her, and everyone else's attention. "This is not the time for us to panic, Rainbow will not abandon us. She is far more loyal than anyone here believes. So just wait for now, and trust, that she will stand by her beliefs, and that she will come back for us." I already know that she will, and that most of the ponies here know this, but Twilight being new to town does not understand this. So, I try to make sure that she understands exactly what it is I am saying.
"How can you be so sure? I mean, you two did not get off to a very pleasant start after all." Twilight sounds a little skeptical with regards to my believing in Rainbow Dash to pull through for us, so I had best give it to her straight.
"True. We did not give each other a very good first impression, but if there is one thing I did learn from our interactions thus far, it is that she is fiercely loyal to those she considers her friends." Even as I speak, I feel the air around us start to lift, driving away the fog and revealing Rainbow Dash in all her glory, and not just that, but, as I had expected, the bridge is fully secured on the other side. Causing the girls to call out excitedly, we all then start to cross the bridge.
"See? I'd never leave my friends hanging." Rainbow declares. Twilight smiles at this as we all then make our way to the ruins.
I can barely hold myself from gawping at this monument to the fall of Luna, and the Rise of Nightmare Moon. The walls are degraded, with most if not all of them cover in a great deal of moss and vines, trees and bushes growing out of the many cracks across the whole compound. The roof is completely gone leaving little evidence of it ever having been there, but I have to confess that I am surprised to see that the wooden doors remain both intact and undamaged by the passage of time and the local plant life.
"I can't believe it." I say breathlessly. "This is the place, the place where Celestia and Nightmare Moon fought all those centuries ago. If it weren't for the current situation we are in, I would love to spend a few days here, just looking the place over, taking in the sights and just plain being here." I say to the world at large. Not at all caring for the looks that the girls are all giving me. Why though? I mean I did explain a few things back at town hall did I not?
"I have to admit that I do feel the same way, but we have a mission to complete." Twilight says, bringing me back to the present. Just in time to notice a faint, but suspiciously familiar smell. Sniffing heavily like a blood hound, I try to place where I smelt this scent before.
"Uh, Ranger? What are you doing?" Fluttershy asks me.
"I... there is a scent here. It is rather faint, but I feel that it should be familiar to me, I just need to find where the scent is strongest and then..." I let the sentence trail off, my mind still focused on that scent. It is actually driving me a little mad, not remembering where that scent is from, but it'll come to me eventually. Just hope it doesn't bite when it does.
I look everywhere, from the decaying walls to the darkest corners of the ruins, looking for any clues as to what that scent belongs to. Hoping that whatever it is, that it is not a hostile being because, as much as I do love a good fight, I don't want these girls to experience death so soon. I mean look at how badly Twilight reacted to my killing that dragon and then my subsequent lying about the reason I fought it. Obviously she bought it, and I was able to get away with it... but thinking back on it now, I don't know if I will be able to lie to Celestia about this. Seriously, she does know about a fair number of things but she should know, by instinct at least, that I am not a true pony by nature.
Whilst I muse to myself, taking extra care to analyze our surroundings, Twilight and the rest come up to a stone statue depicting what they believe to be the Elements of Harmony.
"Whoa." Rarity says in awe at the sight.
"C'mon Twilight, isn't this what you've been waiting for?" Applejack says.
"The Elements of Harmony. We found them!" Twilight exclaims.
"Looks like it." I say standing close to the group, keeping my eye open for any threat. Both Rainbow and Fluttershy then start to collect the Elements from their respective perches and placing them before Twilight.
"One, two, thee, four, uh, there's only five." Pinkie says to the group.
"Where's the sixth?" Rainbow asks.
"The book said, 'When the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth Element to be revealed." Twilight answers.
"What in the hay is that supposed to mean?" Applejack asks right back.
"I'm not sure but I have an idea. Stand back, I don't know what will happen." So saying, Twilight begins to gather her magic for some, even now, unknown reason. I mean really, just blast the stone with some magic and she expects it to work? Rather naïve of her really.
"C'mon now y'all, she needs to concentrate." Applejack says to the others leading them all outside. I watch harder now, waiting for Nightmare to make her appearance. And there it is, that cloud of smoke now turns into a miniature tornado taking the Elements inside it.
"The Elements!" Twilight cries before leaping into the tornado, taking this chance I charge at it and leap in before it starts to shrink, taking us and the Elements with it.
A flash of bright, white light is all that greets me, and a simple white blindness is the after effect. Blinking slowly and heavily, I bring my eyesight back slowly; you would have thought that closing your eyes when going through a tele-portal spell would be a basic safety precaution, but no, I had to keep my eyes open and now I find myself in a weak starting point for negotiations with Nightmare Moon. The only way for me to tell that Twilight made it here is the sound of her coughing.
My vision is eventually restored and seeing Twilight on the ground I move over to her and help her up, all before turning to Nightmare Moon who is chuckling at us darkly. With the usual 'villain lightning effects'. How boring is that? Can't you try to be original or are you deliberately going for the clichéd villain portrayal here? Twilight just gasps, then her face takes a stern turn. (That was terrible. Try again.)
'OK! Just who in the heck are you!? Don't you just stay quiet! Answer ME!' I scream at this voice, wherever it is. Who ever it is.
"You're kidding! She's kidding right?" Nightmare turns to me in bewilderment. Hey don't look at me! I thought that we had agreed to a non-aggression stance with regards to Nightmare Moon.
"No, she ain't! Twilight I thought that we had-wait what the heck are you doing!?" I scream finally at Twilight as she speeds off to joust with the alicorn, whom responds with a charge of her own. Despite knowing how it will end, I still cringe as I watch these two ponies charge towards each other.
I debate at light speed as to whether I should let this come to pass or not and against my better judgement, I let it happen. I know that I will have a chance at talking to Nightmare after the stones are broken, and I intend to help her understand a few things, namely that she was never alone to begin with, and that right now, she has some pony who is willing to be her friend.
And so I stand there as both Twilight and Nightmare charge towards each other in a... unicorn/alicorn joust attempt. No other words needed really. I watch as the closer they get, Twilights horn starts to emit a sort of high pitched, humming noise that gets louder the closer they get. This continues until, just at the point of impact, a bright flash surrounds Twilight, whom vanishes then appears amongst the stones, leaving Nightmare to stare at her once she had skidded to a halt.
"Just one spark." Twilight says, bringing forth her magic in an attempt that I know is doomed to fail. "C'mon, c'mon." Desperation laces her voice as Nightmare turns into a tornado and leaps in front of her.
The stones were glowing with her magic, and an electrical field did connect them which reacted violently with Twilight launching her away. Seeing this, I jump in her path and cushion her fall with my body. Glancing down, I see that Twilight is alright and so I turn my gaze towards Nightmare, watching as she at first shows fear at the reaction of the stones before laughing in both relief and jubilation at them failing to affect her.
"*Gasp* But where's the sixth Element?" Twilight asks in shock. Just as she finishes speaking, Nightmare then stomps on the ground, shattering the stones, leaving them an pieces.
"You little foal! Thinking you could defeat me!? Now you will never see you're princess or you're sun. The night, will last, forever!" She calls, laughing at us both in her apparent victory. I cannot let this stand. I know there has to be a way for me to help her return to her senses without resorting to forcing her back to herself. I know there is!
"Nightmare Moon!" I cry with force, drawing her full attention upon myself.
"You... I thought I made it very clear the last time. I will not listen to anything you have to say! You will take this foal with you and never come near me again!" Nightmare cries, making Twilight flinch, but me? Not so much as a battered eyelash.
"Nightmare..." I cannot speak, only stepping in front of Twilight, keeping her safe behind my back, I can only speak from my heart, it is the only way for me to get to her.
"Nightmare Moon, can you tell me, honestly what you felt before your transformation?" I ask slowly, hoping that she can give me an answer.
"Why in all of Equestria would I tell you that?" Fair and valid point, but I must press on.
"You are deeply wounded by what occurred back then Nightmare, and I believe that talking about it, even if only a little, can help ease any lasting pain, and perhaps,s eventually, even help in healing the wound. But I will not press you if you feel uncomfortable about talking about it." She is listening, openly curious but eventually becoming shock after I finish speaking.
"How could you know anything about what happened back then? How could you ever hope to understand how I even felt before and after my transformation? How could you ever hope to help me in any way at all? All you talk about is caring and understanding when it is clear that you do not understand anything about me!" Nightmare exclaims stepping closer, small tears in her eyes. This may be my best chance, maybe my only chance now, I cannot mess up here or she will then be forced back into Luna, leaving another scar upon her soul. I will not let that happen!
"...I..." A lump forms in my throat as I try to speak. Swallowing back the lump I continue to speak. "I know what happened, how you feel, because I was in that situation once upon a time." I confess, though it isn't something I want to talk about. Nightmare just looks at me.
"Really?" Uncertainty in her voice.
"I hate to admit it, but yes, I know the feeling of fighting your own sibling due to pent up negative emotions, the rage, the fear, the jealousy... the sickness." I begin, delving lightly into how I felt, how she felt when fighting her own sibling. "That was how I felt before and after the fight, but really, I have never felt more sickened by my actions than when I fought my sibling, both physically and spiritually. Nightmare Moon. I am willing to help you through these emotions as I was once helped, if that is not enough... then... I will be the lightning rod for your aggression. Take all of your hate, fear, grief, jealousy and all others to strike at me, rage and whale upon my being to purge yourself of these emotions that cloud your vision!" I speak with complete resolution as I make this claim, watching as both Nightmare and Twilight are horrified what I said.
"Ranger! You cannot be serious! She'll kill you!" Twilight screams to my face.
"You cannot be serious!? You will not be able to take all of it and survive. As much as I want to plunge the world into darkness, I will not kill any pony while doing so!" Nightmare cries out. With that, I know that I have a hold on her.
"You say that you will not kill Nightmare, but were you not willing to kill Celestia when you fought all those years ago?" I ask, just to confirm my suspicions. I need this, for this may be the key point which will help me turn her back peacefully.
"I-I..." She stutters, unsure how to respond. "I..." Nightmare looks down eyes closed, tears now dripping onto the floor.
"I cannot lie. I did feel the desire to kill her back then." Twilight gasps at Nightmares' admission. "But, as the fight dragged on, that desire slowly went away and was replaced by a desire to beat her. I just wanted what should have been mine. I wanted to be loved as she was loved, was that to much to ask?" She asks, tears coursing down her face.
I say nothing as Twilight stands beside matching as we speak to one another. All I do is step forward, and once more embrace her in my hooves, giving her a much needed shoulder to cry on, we remain like this for a time until we hear the rest of the girls finally make their way to us. Twilight heads over to them and asks them to keep quiet as Nightmare Moon vents her pent up sorrow to the world at large. I do not rightfully now how long we stayed like this, but we are both brought back to the world when Twilight, comes up to us and joins me in hugging Nightmare. I freely confess that I did not see this coming.
"Nightmare Moon, I'm sorry for how I reacted before, I'm sorry for assuming that you were nothing more than a being of pure evil. If it is possible, then I want to help make amends, to try and help you in my own way; I'll also join Ranger in listening to all of your problems and helping you get through this time of great hardship." Twilight says, her voice a near whisper due to close proximity.
"Thank you." Nightmare says in the same quiet tone of voice. Hearing this, I smile lightly, knowing that we now have her, she may be more agreeable to being turned back peacefully now.
"No. It is us who should thank you." I say. "I have few friends, and I hope to count you as one of them Nightmare Moon." She raises her head at my suggestion, she then looks at Twilight who smiles and nods before turning to me once more. A small smile, carrying genuine happiness.
"If, if you will accept me and my failings, then I will accepts being your friend." A broad toothy grin adorns my face as a bring her and Twilight into a near bone breaking hug, chuckling at the subsequent attempts to break free for air. Eventually I release them both and watch as the breathe heavily after being engulfed in my bear hug.
"That is one of the best things I heard all day. I have more friends now. Huh, now that I think about it, I have made more friends in this one day than I have in the last ten years." This causes everypony to blink and look at me with a small amount of pity in their eyes, all except for Twilight and Nightmare, whom both smile and giggle at my own admission.
"I have to agree with that statement, my friend." Nightmare says, a little awkwardly, but you can't blame her for that as the only friend she had was her sister. Then you take into account their break up and her thousand years of imprisonment and... well, yeah.
"Still, how can I remedy this situation?" She asks me lightly. "I have brought eternal night to the world and the other ponies undoubtedly fear me, I don't think that I will be able to walk amongst them as a friendly being due to that." What she says is true but...
"Maybe, but... I think that there is a way for you to be accepted by the rest of Equestria. However... that does mean being turned back into Luna." Twilight says catching me of guard. I know what she speaks of but...? Oh, right. Now I get it. While they speak to one another I had best get my head into gear.
"So, what it is that you are saying is that, I should cease to exist, and turn back into Luna?" She doesn't sound happy. But she forgets something very basic and fundamental here.
"If I might interject here." I say gathering their attention. "Nightmare, you will not cease to exist, you have always existed, you just didn't know it." I say, earning confused glances from everypony around me.
"I mean, just think about it. You bear all the memories from your youth right?" Nightmare nods slowly. "You remember everything that both yourself and Celestia did and spoke about yes?" Another nod, more confident this time, accompanied by a glimmer of joy in her eyes.
"Do you understand where I am coming from now? Nightmare Moon, Princess Luna. They are both one and the same pony, neither evil nor good; they are both pure beings whom exist in the same place. To me, you are both Nightmare Moon and Princess Luna, one cannot exist without the other, they compliment each other in a natural and organic manner. I also believe that your sister, Princess Celestia, new about this, but couldn't quite talk to you in the right way. I tell you this, here and now, that she still loves you and seeks a chance to gain your forgiveness, love and friendship. Will you take a chance, this one chance to be with her once more? To be with us?" I throw everything I have at her, all my emotions, my caring, my desires, all of it in this final attempt to get her to see the truth of her own existence.
She closes her eyes and breathes steadily, head down low. All of us, myself, Twilight, the rest of the girls, all waiting, barely breathing, waiting for her response. Eventually, her eyes open, firm and resolute, she speaks to all of us.
"I... if there is a chance... then please help me reunite with my sister and my people. Please." So saying, she lowers her head, and internally I rejoice. I don't know how I did it, but I did it!
"Don't worry, there is a way to help you. Twilight, use the Elements of Harmony." I say turning towards her.
"But the Elements... they are destroyed." She says looking at the broken shards of stone. Nightmare looks slightly forlorn at that but this should help them all understand.
"Twilight. Look at me." She turns to face me. "The Elements of Harmony are more than simple stones, material objects that can be so easily broken. Take a long hard look around you, see all that there is to see, and you will find that the truth stands before your very eyes." Why the fuuufufu... heck did I say it like that? There was no point in being all mystical. Still, she is very intelligent and should get what it is I'm trying to say.
Nodding, she then turns and looks around, briefly I might add, and sees the five other ponies standing arrayed before us, some in confusion, some with happy expressions, but still standing there, showing that they cared, that they were there for her if their help was needed.
"*Gasp* Ranger. You're right! The Elements cannot be destroyed just like that. For the spirits of the Elements of Harmony are right, here!" Yes Twilight. Spread the word, and let the power that is friendship flourish! The various stone shards start to glow and float off the ground.
"Applejack, who reassured me when I was in doubt, represents the spirit of, Honesty!" Shards starts to orbit her and will do so for the other five.
"Fluttershy, who tamed the manticore with her compassion, represents the spirit of, Kindness!"
"Pinkie Pie, who banished fear by giggling on the face of danger, represents the spirit of, Laughter!"
"Rarity, who calmed a sorrowful serpent with a meaningful gift, represents the spirit of, Generosity!"
"And Rainbow Dash, who could not abandon her friends for her own hearts desire, represents the spirit of, Loyalty!"
"The spirits of these five ponies got us through every challenge that came before us!" Twilight says.
"But if that is the case, then where is the sixth Element? Did the spark even work?" Nightmare calls out, some small amount of fear creeping into her voice.
"But it did, a different kind of spark. I felt it the very moment I realized how happy I was to hear you, to see you, how much I cared about you. The spark ignited inside me, when I realized that you all, are my friends!" She then turns to Nightmare Moon, who takes a few steps back in fear as Twilight and the girls start to glow.
"You see Nightmare Moon, when those Elements are ignited by the, the spark that resides in the heart of us all, it creates the sixth Element. The Element of , Magic!" So saying, she and the girls are surrounded by a glow that morphs the shards into their amulets and Twilights crown. Nightmare looks at me, and I see the fear in her eyes, all I do is smile encouragingly and nod at her, giving off an aura, making her feel that everything will be alright.
I see that her stance is more relaxed, more ready, she closes her eyes and waits as the power the girls all display, creates a powerful rainbow, engulfing Nightmare Moon in a rainbow colored vortex. Twilight finally opens her eyes and the world around me goes white as I close my eyes and look away to avoid getting blinded in the aftermath.
Once the world had regained its true color's, I notice all the girls are on the ground. Probably tired out from that first time experience. Heh heh heh. I love those innuendoes. Lets see how far I can take them before I get censored.
"Oh, my head." Rainbow says, rubbing her sore head.
"Is, is everypony ok?" Applejack asks.
"Oh, thank goodness!" Rarity cries out.
"Why Rarity, it's so lovely." Fluttershy says.
"I know, I'll never part with it again." Rarity says displaying her now restored tail.
"No, your necklace, it looks just like your Cutie Mark." Fluttershy corrects her.
"What, oh." She says comparing the two. "So does yours."
"Look at mine, look at mine!" Pinkie says.
"Ah, yeah." Declares Rainbow proudly.
"Gee Twilight, I just thought you were just spoutin' a lot of hooey. But I reckon, we really do represent the Elements of friendship." Applejack says, her voice loaded with honesty and pride.
"Indeed you do." A female voice calls out. 10 points to captain obvious if you can guess who just turned up.
Like the coming of a god, the sun rises faster than it has any right to, enveloping the world with its own warmth, before releasing the Princess of the sun herself, who in a glowing white orb, appears before us in all her glory.
A white, colored alicorn standing about a head taller than me, maybe six foot tall if I had to guess. Her mane and tail are both long and freely flowing in whatever magical breeze they are caught upon, and the are colored in green, pink and blue. Her eyes are purple in color and hold a great deal of compassion and strength in them, but I have to question though, is she really as effective a ruler as she could be? Whatever, that's for another time. Lastly is her Cutie Mark, which is simply a full sun upon her flank. A beautiful pony by any ponies standards.
"Princess Celestia!" Twilight cries coming forwards.
"Twilight Sparkle, my faithful student." Celestia says giving her students a cuddle. Her tone of voice always appears to be sort of... motherly in a way. But that is sort of to be expected. "I new you could do it."
"But, you told me it was all an old pony tale." Twilight says.
"I told you that you needed to make some friends, nothing more. I had seen the signs foretelling of Nightmare Moons return, and I knew that its was you who had the magic inside to defeat her, but you could not unleash it until you let true friendship into your heart." Celestia says looking at Twilight and her friends before turning to her sister. "Now if only another will as well."
"Princess Luna." She makes her way towards her sister whom I have taken place besides, watching over her as she fully revert to her original self. Once she opens her eyes, she gasps upon making eye contact with her sister. "It has been a thousand years since I have last seen you like this." Crouching down to eye level she lets her eyes and do the talking on a spiritual level unseen by all except for me.
"Time to put our past grievances behind us, we were always meant to rule together little sister. Can we, can we once more be friends?" Celestia asks, desperate hope in her very being. Luna looks at me for my opinion. Once again I smile and give her an encouraging nod. Leading her to leap at her sister giving her a deep, crushing embrace.
"I'm so sorry! Oh, I missed you so much big sister!" She cries into Celestias' shoulder.
"Oh, I've missed you too." Celestia cries deep in her sister embrace, returning it in kind.
I happily shed a few tears at the scene before me, though the moment is ruined somewhat due to the exaggerated emotions of a certain pink, peppy, party pony. Who then cries a veritable river upon the stone floor. All before getting happy really, really quickly. Don't ask.
"Hey, do you know what this calls for?" Three guess's. "A PARTY! C'mon every pony lets get to the cake! I have something special in mind for this one." As she leaves, all the others follow on behind her, I too follow on but at the back of the herd. I smile watching these events unfold, at least until I catch that scent again. This time it is stronger. More potent, more...! FUDGE BERRIES! I know that scent from anywhere!
I charge off, leaving the others behind as I hear them call out to me. Following my nose, I track the scent deep into the ruins, ending up at a locked door. Well, I say door, but it looks like something one would use in a fallout shelter. Strong metals mixed with strong enchantments to make all the more tougher to break through. Though it could have been done better if it was done at the same time rather than two independent processes; that just leaves a fatal flaw for those with sufficient skill and knowledge to just smash on through.
"Excuse me, but why did you run off like... that? This door. The treasure vault; it is still locked, even after all this time. Is this why you came here? To plunder what is inside?" Celestia asks me as I stand there giving it a full analysis.
"Princess Celestia, I am sure there has to be a reason that Ranger has come here." Twilight reassures the Princess with me paying little attention to what is going on around me. "Ranger? How did you know this place even existed? More to the fact, how did you know how to find the place?" She asks me.
"I smelt something that is very familiar to me so I decided to follow it here. Now, I just plan to break into the place and get at the scent." I will be perfectly blunt about what I plan to do here.
"You do realize that you are still going to commit a crime as the contents of the vault are still the rightful property of the Canterlot royal family." Celestia says, raising her brow at my near casual disregard for the law.
"I am only going to get some very specific items. You need not worry about the rest of the contents, but you will have to worry about the state of the vault door after I'm finished with it." Saying that, I roll my shoulders and crack my neck before stepping forward only to stop as Celestia gets in front of me. She is not stopping me from getting inside that blloooollloooo...! Fuuuuuu...! Stupid vault! I hate this so much! Look here GOD! I will find a way to swear and I will swear at you to your face until I collapse from oxygen deprivation!
"I'm sorry, but I cannot let you do something that drastic. You do fully realize that both my sister and I are here? We can open the vault without you needing to break it open." She says as both she and Luna step up to the door and attempt to open the door. Key word being 'attempt'. "Odd. The door should be opening by now." She says try for the fourth time.
"Princess, is there a problem?" I ask slightly smug about the trouble she is having. All I get in response is a slight glare and a challenge.
"Well, if you can get through this then you can collect you specific items and a few other things as well. If you can." Her own sense of smugness showing, but you know what they say, 'Pride comes before a fall.' And boy will her pride fall today.
I smirk as I step up to the door and give it a full analysis before deciding on one of two different methods to open the vault. One a very simple spell to by-pass the outer enchantments then just push the doors open. Or two, just head butt the door into pieces. I'll try option one first, then go for two if one doesn't work out.
"I call upon all antiquity to give me magic enough. Oh how does it begin...? Karvik tome somini lava-yes! Karvitome, somini, lavethal," Everypony just looks at me as I speak, in their eyes, nothing but gibberish, but to me, they are words of power. Even as I speak a glowing, blue, eight pointed star appears before me shocking all who witness it. "Untumblee varishtone, misuse-krones maglionrach, Kalah!" I shout, finishing the incantation. The eight pointed star burns brighter and brighter until it releases all the pent up magical energy to do its work upon the door. I watch-we watch the blue magical energy burn for about a minute before ot gutters and fades away. I make a thorough check for any residual magical energy, but upon seeing none, I simply walk up to the door and push it open. Leaving all the ponies behind me gawping at my feat.
Walking into the vault with a face rivaling Jeremy Clarkson's 'smug face', I follow the ever enticing smell of leather, fur and a strong smell from a black smithy. This leads me to the source of the smell, there it is, lying on the floor without a care in the world is a large bag. Made of leather from an ancient dragon, a creature from the very bowels of hell and one from the highest heavens, this is one of my greatest works alongside my weapon 'Sternguard'. I made this in collaboration with my friend who used a magic spell they created to give this near limitless carry weight, simply put, this is an infinite bag made to carry practically anything, and with the added bonus of removing the wight of all itmes that go inside it. Just awesome isn't it.
"That... that... that... what the heck was that Ranger?" Pinkie Pie asks coming out of nowhere. I turn to her to respond.
"Simple magic." That is all I give before looking back at the bag.
"...No. No nononononono! Ranger that was by no means simple magic! That was some advanced and powerful magic, if you were a unicorn or an alicorn I could accept you calling it 'simple magic' but you, for you information, are an earth pony. You cannot fundamentally use magic like that! Just what in the heck did you do to even do this?!" Twilight says in a fit of hysterics. I look over my shoulder seeing everypony else of a similar opinion. I just shrug and focus on the bag.
"!" Yes Twilight, I am ignoring you. Get over it.
"Don't you ignore me! This is not something you can just leave unanswered!" So saying she gets right in my face. You know something, I will by-pass her by doing something she does not expect. I kiss her nose. With this she calms down quite fast, and starts to turn red. Huh, would you look at that, red is most definitely not her color. I walk around her leaving her to her blushing embarrassment and move closer to my bag.
"How did this get in here?" I ask turning to the two princesses whom are both staring at a very red Twilight.
"... I beg your pardon?" Celestia asks after getting control of herself.
"I said, how did this get in here?" I repeat myself for her benefit, pointing at the bag.
"Well, that has been in here since Luna and myself were little fillies, before we even got our Cutie Marks. And in that time no pony has been able to so much as open it, let alone move it. Not even magic seems to work. More to the point though, how do you know about it?" Celestia asks me.
"It's mine." With that, I walk on over to my bag and without any problems, I just pick it up, and strap it onto my back. Turning around I see something that causes me to laugh so hard that my knees buckle under me, causing me to collapse onto the floor. I cannot believe what I am seeing. The two princesses! Their faces! OH MY GOD! That is priceless! Where in the name of fudge is a camera when you need it most?
I don't rightfully know how long I laughed but every time I got some control over myself, one single, solitary peak at the two princesses caused me to once again, go into hysterics. After... God alone knows how long, I finally pull myself together and regain my balance, even if some giggles do escape me. I stare at all the girls with my tear stained smirking face and tell them that I am now ready to head back to Ponyville, they all nod with the princesses being in a state of shock at my accomplishing both magic and moving an object that has been in their vault for over a millennium. They will surely have words for me about that but I am not very sure how I will explain it, well when the time comes then it comes. I will do what I can in the mean time and await any sort of hint or clue as to this entities whereabouts, and any of its minions.
Once we all exit the castle and cross the rope bridge, Pinkie Pie comes up to my side and asks me a question.
"Hey, I had heard from the other ponies is town about a song you sang while traveling on your way to Sweet Apple Acres, do you think you could sing it again?" She asks. I just blink.
"...Pardon?" I asks in turn.
"You know, that song. Could you sing it for us as we travel on back? I heard that it was a rather jolly little traveling tune and I think we could all do with a bit of cheer here." She says smiling at me. I look at the others and see that they are all, with the exception of Twilight, looking curious with regards to what Pinkie is talking about. I am rather reluctant as this is three songs within one day for me, and I think that it is a bit much... eh. What the hay! Lets have ourselves a reprise of that song then!
[PLAY 'FULL METAL JACKET - FINALE - MICKEY MOUSE]
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
We play fair and we work hard
and we're in harmony
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
After the first lyric comes out of my mouth, Twilight joins in immediately slowly followed by all the other ponies and then eventually both princesses.
Mickey Mouse (MICKEY MOUSE)
Mickey Mouse (MICKEY MOUSE)
Forever let us hold our banner high.
High! High! High!
Fillies and Colts from far and near
you're welcome as can be.
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
Who's the leader of the club
that's made for you and me.
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
Who is marching coast to coast
and far across the sea.
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
As we sing, the distance between us and Ponyville shortens by a vast margin, leading to enter it in a near triumphal procession with practically every pony joining us in singing the song to it's conclusion.
Mickey Mouse (MICKEY MOUSE)
Mickey Mouse (MICKEY MOUSE)
Forever let us hold our banner high.
High! High! High!
Come along and sing a song
and join our family.
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
Who's the leader of the club
that's made for you and me.
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
Hey there. Hi there. Ho there
You're as welcome as can be.
M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E
With this, Pinkie calls out to every pony within earshot and calls upon all of them to join the party which... just springs up right out of nowhere. I am not even going to comment on that. That will just leave me with a stonking headache, and I would rather not have to deal with that right now.
With this I see both princesses ride in on a golden chariot pulled by four guard pegasai, and spike reunites with his best friend and mother figure. All the ponies bow before the two princesses showing their fealty and loyalty. Luna is still a little unsure and lowers her head, probably thinking that she doesn't deserve this. Her head jerks up as two young pegasai fly up to her and place a garland of flowers around her neck. After looking down and seeing what was placed upon her neck she then turns to her sister and smiles happily.
Standing off to the side of all the festivities, I gaze at everything before me, a small smile gracing my features as I start thinking of my future here in this world. It is beyond obvious that I will be doing a lot of killing when I face of against this Rouge Entities forces and I'll be fighting alone at that, but honestly that is by far the most acceptable outcome of this entire endeavor of mine. Alone, I will take on this menace and I will conquer it.
My mind, body and soul set, I turn and walk away. I don't make it very far before a certain pony catches up to my side and brings me to a halt.
"Ranger? Where are you going?" Twilight says. I look at her before I speak.
"My business here is done now and it is time for me to continue on my way I'm afraid." I say a little saddened. Oh who am I kidding? I am very saddened by the fact that I have to leave Ponyville, but I have to hunt for this Entities location and defeat it fast so that-!(Where the fuck do you think you're going?)
What and how!? I try to move but time seems to have stopped! What is going on here!? (If you want to stop this Rouge Entity then you will need a place to stay, not where ever is best for one night.)
That voice again. What is it that you want anyway? (I want you to find the Rouge Entity of course. From there you will start on a journey beyond your wildest dreams.)
What the heck are you on about? Are you tripping on something? ( No I am not. I, unlike the rest of the pantheon have plans for you. And I believe that Equestria is a bloody good starting point don't you agree?)
What plans?
...
...
...
What just happened?
OK. It is official. I am going mad. I have lost my grip on sanity and have tumbled downhill and fallen into the sludgy mess that is insanity. Oh how the mighty have fallen.
Pain across the back of my head brings my eyes and my body into complete focus, blinking I turn to stare at the one who hit me. Huh, didn't think she had it in her. Twilight had just clobbered me over the back of my head with Sternguard. Is it wrong of me to think she looks hot when holding such a thick shaft? Hehehehehe. I love these. I can actually get away with them, at least within my mind, but I should try speaking them to another pony so as to confirm it.
"Ranger! Are you there now!?" She shouts at me shocking me and all the other ponies at her actions.
"Twilight Sparkle!" Celestia says as she comes up to us. "Was that really necessary! You could have badly hurt him!" Nah. I am way to tough for that.
"Sorry princess but he just blacked out for some time and I couldn't get a response out of him. So I, kinda... fell onto the last resort?" She started strongly before withering under the princesses steady stare.
"*Sigh* Twilight my faithful student, violence should always be the last resort, but you used it within moments. You didn't really give him much time before hitting him with that hammer. Where did you even get that thing by the way?" Celestia asks confused.
"I used my magic to get it from the library, and before you ask princess, the hammer is actually his?" Twilight... you... are just adorable you know that? I think to myself as she flounders around.
"You actually hit him with his own weapon?" Celestia asks.
"Yes?" Twilight squeaks.
"Princess?" I say getting into the conversation before it can go off an another tangent.
"Yes? Ranger was it?" Celestia asks turning towards me.
"Yes, my name is Ranger le Forge and I wouldn't really worry about myself being hit over the head by that hammer." I say, causing her to raise her brow in disbelief.
"I find that hard to believe, but seeing as how you appear to be fine, I will let this slide. Still, that is not something you should ever do to a fellow pony Twilight." Celestia says to me and Twilight.
"I understand princess, but I couldn't think of any other way to get his attention." Twilight says in turn.
"Ehh. No harm no foul, says I" I say, making sure this conversation ends.
"Fair enough, but I must say, that you do appear to be unhappy Twilight. Are you not happy? Your quest is complete and you can now return to your studies back in Canterlot." Celestia says speak to Twilight.
"That's just it, right at the point I learn where I learn how wonderful it is to have friends, I have to leave them." Twilight replies, her eyes downcast.
"Spike, take a note please." Celestia says to Spike, who then pulls pen and parchment from nowhere. Again. I just shake my head at then sheer nonsensical nature that is cartoon logic before turning back to the conversation at hand.
"I, Princess Celestia hereby decree, that the unicorn, Twilight Sparkle shall take on a new mission for Equestria. She must continue to study the magic of friendship, she must report to me her findings from her new home, Ponyville." With this, the others of the mane six come up and congratulate Twilight on becoming the newest resident in Ponyville, and for being able to stay with them.
"Oh , thank you Princess Celestia! I'll study harder than ever before!" Confetti falls to the ground as all the ponies around us cheer, Luna makes her way over to us and stands at my side causing me to give her a friendly smile , which she returns.
"Truly, this is the best of days. Friendships have been forged anew and I have been restored. All thanks to the seven of you." She says speaking to us. I just rub the back of my head and chuckle enjoying the atmosphere. Twilight then steps up to me and asks me a question.
"Ranger? Are... are you really going to leave?" She asks me, sadness in her eyes. Well that was the plan, but that voice... that made me change them. Not sure if it is the right decision but... well we'll see.
"Twilight... I have been traveling across Equestria for a number of years now, and I have had little time to think of settling down somewhere permanently. But, perhaps, perhaps it is time I did. If the ponies of Ponyville are willing to have me then I would gladly become a resident here." I say which causes more cheering from all the ponies around us. I smile and laugh at their enthusiasm, it is pretty hard not to get into the spirit of things, especially when you are at the center of it.
"Yes! Oh thank you Ranger for agreeing to stay here! I hope that with time we will become even greater friends than we are now." Twilight says while hugging me. I just hug her in turn and chuckle at her response. She then breaks away from the hug and asks me another question.
"Is their anywhere you can stay for the night?" She asks.
"Not really but, given time, I will be able to build myself a place to stay and set up my own business." I say getting curious looks from both Twilight and Luna.
"What do you mean by business?" Luna asks me.
"I mean to open up a black smithy here in Ponyville." I say, a smile upon my scared face.
A/N
WOW!
This took so long to write!
I had to rewrite it so many times! I just could not seem to get it right, for there was always something that got on my nerves about it that made me feel like it didn't belong.
But finally, at long last, I am, DONE!
I really hope you all like this chapter, I am really sorry for how long it took to write up but, as mentioned... yeah.
Now believe me when that voice is telling you guys the truth. I am planning something huge for this one guy. A sort of chronicles of his various adventure across various fandoms. Hell, I am already planning which one to send him to first. I am even thinking that I will have this story turn into and bloody large epic tale that will span years, and spread across a large number of different universes for god's sake!
As for my other story, 'Rage of the Feral', I am going to complete that alongside this story. But I will take some creative license with both when and where I have to, in order to make the story progress.
As before, I really hope you enjoy this latest chapter and hope that you can give me your honest opinion of it and review it when you can. I love any and all forms of critique so long as it is professional in regards to spelling, pacing, storytelling and the like. If there are bits you feel should be improved upon, then feel free to says so and I will do the best I can to fix these issues.
See ya around!