Riku was a young boy with the curse of the beast. He had no control of the beast within him and was a test subject of a secret group. They performed tests on him until he couldn't move each day, but as the days past Riku got stronger. Soon he was taken to the same test chamber only to have a sample of his blood extracted and was taken to the portal room. When the portal was open Riku ran towards it only turning back to throw a metal plate at the portal control panel forcing it to shut down and collapse the moment he went through it.
“My life was perfect, or so I thought.” Riku said to himself. “When I turned ten years old the curse on our family took effect on me, and I was scared at first.” He added. “When I turned fourteen I was abducted off the street and taken away to a secret facility, where scientists performed tests on me to find out more about my family’s curse, sad thing is the curse only effects one person in the family and that person is me.” He said. “My name is Riku Kagerashi and this is my story.” He said. -Containment chamber 1-
Riku was seventeen, and was on the bed in the containment chamber trying to relax. He closed his eyes and began to imagine what his life would be like without the curse that was on him. When he was about to fall asleep he heard the chamber door slide open.
“Get up we have some more tests to perform.” A scientist with grey hair and aged face said with a scowl.
“Why now I just finished with the last tests.” Riku said with a tired groan.
“Don’t complain you’ll do as we ask with no question you understand!” the scientist shouted. “Now hurry time is money.” The scientist added.
-Test chamber 13-
Riku stepped into the white room and awaited orders for what he was suppose to do. Before an order came, a needle hit his neck and his vision began to go out of focus.
“What did you do to me?” Riku asked as his world began to spin.
“We’re going to extract some of your blood to perform tests with it and then you’re going to test the portal.” A younger scientist said. “Hurry take him to the portal chamber and prep him for the transfer.” The scientist added.
-Portal chamber-
Two guards dragged Riku to a huge steel room with a portal frame on the far wall.
“Set him on the center platform.” The scientist ordered.
As many scientists began to turn on the portal Riku finally stood up and had a look of anger in his eyes.
“So you’re finally going to make your super soldiers with my blood!” Riku shouted in anger. Riku watched the portal spring to life and ran for the opening. As he jumped into the portal, he spun around and threw a metal plate towards the control panel. When Riku vanished through the gate, it closed quickly and the frame collapsed.
-Equestria near the edge of the Everfree Forest-
There was a quick flash and Riku morphed into his wolf form to allow his body to heal from the side effects of the portal. When he returned to normal he had no memory of going through the portal.
“I must have transformed when I went through that thing, guess it wasn’t safe for human tests.” Riku said as he painfully stood up. He looked around and realized he was not in the facility anymore. “I’m actually free!” Riku shouted. Riku began to walk around to find any sign of life anywhere.
-Ponyville, Sweet Apple Acres-
Riku soon found he was walking through an apple orchard and could see a barn in the distance. “I could probably sleep there until morning and speak to the owners as well.” He said as he quietly ran to the barn. He jump through a window and fell asleep in a pile of hay.
-Morning-
Riku woke up with a hard kick to his right side.
“What are you doing in our barn!” a orange mare with a blonde mane and tail shouted.
“I was only looking for-“ Riku began but stopped when he realized a pony just spoke to him. “Talking horse!” Riku shouted panicked.
“I’ll have you know I’m a pony.” The mare said.
“Oh, that makes the fact you talked so much better.” Riku said as he grabbed his side. “By the way, nice kick.” He added as he stood up slowly.
“Now explain, what are you, and why were you in our barn?” The mare asked ready to kick him again.
“My name is Riku Kagerashi and I’m a human, and I was in your barn for a safe place to sleep I was hoping to speak to you the owners when the sun rose.” Riku said letting go of his side. “Now what is your name?” He added.
“The name’s Applejack.” The mare said.
“Pleasure to, meet you, Applejack.” Riku said with a polite tone.
“Uh...Doesn’t your side hurt?” Applejack said raising a brow.
“It did but it kind of went away over the time we were talking.” Riku said sitting back down. “Now care to explain the fact you kicked me awake.” Riku said.
“You weren’t waking up to my shouting so I kicked you.” Applejack said looking at the ground. “Sorry about that sugar cube.” She added
At that moment, Riku finally noticed she had a strong farm accent. He then began to think that this world had more surprises in store for him. “Is there a town close by?” Riku asked.
“Ponyville is just a short walk away I can show you the way if you help me get the apples to my stall.” Applejack said with a smile.
Riku followed Applejack to a cart full of buckets of apples. He then noticed a big red stallion running at him. “Please don’t hurt me!” Riku shouted his british accent slipping out with his shout.
“What happened to your voice?” Applejack asked with a curious expression.
“It was my accent I can hide it if I don’t shout.” Riku said. “In all honesty I hide it because it made me feel different where I was before coming here.” Riku explained with a sad expression. He reached up, ran his hand through his jet-black shoulder length hair, and closed his eyes.
“Well let’s go to Ponyville, and Big Mac no killing our guest.” Applejack said. She and Riku walked to Ponyville and Riku pulled the cart of apples along with no problem.
When they got to town Riku could not help but notice all the stares, he was getting. Then a pink mare with a fluffy mane and tail bumped into him and stared before jumping in the air gasping and running off.
“Is she going to be ok?” Riku asked.
“That’s just Pinkie being Pinkie, she is most likely getting a welcome party ready for you as we speak.” Applejack explained.
“A welcome party?” Riku questioned.
“You’ll see sugar cube.” Applejack said as she stopped at a cart.
“OK and thanks for bringing me into town.” Riku said with a small grin.
“It was nothing but I got to run the stall so you’re free to go where you want.” Applejack said as she set up the apples ready to sell.
Riku decided to go by his routine and started to run through Ponyville at full sprint. He ran towards a wall and ran up the side of a house landing gently on the roof. As he sat in a crouch on the roof, he began to focus on the task, pushing hard with his left leg he jumped from roof to roof. As he was jumping, he began to pick up speed at a quick rate. Soon he saw a cyan blur and the next thing he knew he was laying on his back next to a cyan mare with a rainbow mane and tail.
“Watch where you’re going!” the cyan mare shouted with a hint of irritation in her tone. As she looked at what she crashed into, she became confused. “Who and what are you?” she asked.
“Answer to your shout I didn’t see you coming, my name is Riku kagerashi, and I’m a human.” He said. “Now, what is your name?” He added.
“I’m Rainbow Dash fastest flier in Equestria.” Rainbow boasted.
Riku stood up and held out a hand to Rainbow Dash. She put her hoof in his hand and he helped her up.
“Sorry for bumping into you.” Riku said. “I honestly need a new way of meeting ponies because getting hurt when meeting someone new isn’t the best way.” He added laughing a bit.
“You mean to say somepony right?” Rainbow said with a confused look.
“Yes, that is what I meant now I hope we can speak again but I want to continue my run.” Riku said as he began to jog out of town.
Rainbow just flew into the sky and took a nap on a cloud.
As soon as Riku got out of Ponyville he saw a figure wearing a black cloak who appeared to be human. He ran towards the figure but as he got closer, the figure ran into the forest. Riku looked into the forest and began to run along the outside. He soon saw a cottage with many animals all around. As he got closer he saw a yellow Pegasus with a long pink mane and tail flying around tending to the animals. Riku ducked behind a tree and observed not wanting to scare the Pegasus.
“She’s beautiful.” Riku whispered to himself. When the yellow Pegasus was not looking Riku darted from his hiding place and ran back towards Sweet Apple Acres.
“Hey Riku follow me for a second.” Applejack shouted as Riku ran up to her. “I got a surprise for you.” Applejack added.
“What is it?” Riku asked following Applejack into town. They were soon at the doors to Sugar Cube Corner and Riku could tell the lights were off.
As Riku followed, Applejack inside all he heard was multiple voices shout “Surprise!” in unison. Riku fell flat on his back startled by all the ponies shouting that one word.
“You ok sugar cube?” Applejack asked looking at Riku hiding his face.
Riku rolled onto his back laughing with tears in his eyes. “No one has ever thrown me a party before.” Riku said stopping his laughter. “Thank you Pinkie this is an amazing welcome surprise.” He added. -3 hours later-
Riku walked with Applejack towards the barn where he was going to sleep.
“I’ll see you in the morning.” Riku said walking into the barn.
“Where do you think you’re going? You’re going to sleep in the guest room.” Applejack said with a small chuckle.
Riku followed her into the house and shown the guest room. He climbed into bed and slowly fell asleep.
Luna detected the dreams of a creature she has never seen before and went to investigate. When she entered the dream, she noticed it was a horrible nightmare. She slowly walked towards a young man who was curled up in the corner of the room.
“Who are you?” Luna asked with a gentle tone.
“My name is Riku and you might want to leave before it gets here.” He said with a blank expression.
“Before, what gets here?” Luna asked a bit confused. As she finished speaking, a howl could, be heard, in the distance.
“Run!” Riku shouted running past Luna.
Luna left Riku’s dream and went to wake her sister. -Riku’s dream-
“Why do you do this every night?” Riku asked a wolf like man beast.
“Because, I want to be free!” the wolf shouted. As the wolf finished speaking, Riku woke up to Applejack shouting his name. -Sweet Apple Acres guest room-
“Finally you woke up it seemed like you were having an awful nightmare.” Applejack said.
Riku looked around the room and saw a small yellow filly with a red mane and tail and a big pink bow in her mane standing by the door.
“Who’s the little one?” Riku asked.
“That’s my little sister Applebloom.” Applejack said with a small smile.
“It’s nice to meet you Applebloom.” Riku said allowing his british accent to slip out. “My name is Riku.” He added.
“It’s nice to meet you too, also what are you?” Applebloom asked looking at Riku a bit confused.
“I’m a human.” Riku explained standing up from the bed.
“Do all humans have a tail?” Applebloom asked looking at the black wolf like tail hanging behind Riku.
“What do you mean I don’t have….” Riku began reaching behind him feeling a furry tail has appeared. “I have a tail!” Riku shouted in a panic.
“I guess you don’t normally have that.” Applebloom said.
Before he responded, he ran and jumped out of the open window landing with a loud “Thud”. Riku ran at full sprint towards the forest without saying a word.
Applejack ran into the library. “Riku ran off after he woke up with a tail!” Applejack shouted in a small panic.
The mane six gathered in the library and began to discuss a plan to look for Riku. As they were speaking, a portal opened in the center of Ponyville and multiple people wearing full armor carrying swords and small firearms. A man with grey hair stepped out from the soldiers and cleared his throat.
“We are looking for a young man named Riku either give him up or we’ll destroy this town.” The man said with an evil grin.
-Everfree Forest-
Riku kept on running as his body slowly transformed into a wolf. His sky blue eyes shifted to gold and his head took a wolf like appearance. His legs and feet were now more like a wolf but he kept a human posture. His hands had one-inch long claws extending from each finger. His mind became clouded with anger at the scent he picked up. Riku froze in place and turned towards the direction of Ponyville.
“He came after me.” Riku said with a low growl. He took off at a full sprint on all fours. He made it to the edge of the forest in no time and kept on running towards town. -Ponyville-
“Destroy the town and find Riku!” The man with grey hair shouted.
As the soldiers began to walk through the town, they heard the scream of multiple soldiers dying. Each time the screams got less and less frequent but could still be heard. When nearly all the soldiers were dead they regrouped near the portal.
“What are you afraid of?” The grey haired man shouted as a black wolf came into view. Before the wolf could catch him and the remaining soldiers, they jumped through the portal and it closed quickly.
The wolf’s eyes closed and he fell onto his chest turning back into his normal form. Riku was lying in the middle of town and the only remaining wolf feature left was a tail. Riku slowly woke up and looked around at all the pony’s scared faces.
“What happened here?” Riku asked, but got no response. He took the hint; he stood up and ran back towards the Everfree forest with tears in his eyes. He kept on running through the forest until he took shelter in a cave. When he sat in the cave, he wiped the tears from his eyes and looked at the cave floor.
“Riku is that really you?” A figure said approaching Riku.
“Who are you?” Riku asked staring at the cloaked figure.
“I see you don’t remember me.” The figure said removing his hood.
“Marcus!” Riku shouted shocked. “I thought you died.” Riku added.
“I was the one who created the portal I needed to test it and I got trapped here.” Marcus explained. “I see the beast is showing signs of getting stronger Riku, but why are you hiding here your friends will need you.” Marcus added.
“They looked at me like I was a monster!” Riku shouted his tail twitching side to side. “I could have harmed one of them if I didn’t pass out.” He added with a frown.
“He will return with his true weapon, an army of beast like super soldiers and when that time comes you need to stand up and face him head on.” Marcus said pulling out a dusty old book. “You can stay here until your friends come looking for you.” He said with a smile.
“Why would they look for the monster that killed all those soldiers out of anger and revenge?” Riku said quietly. He soon heard his name called in the distance. “They actually came after me.” Riku said surprised.
“Go your friends are worried about you Riku and you deserve to have friends like them.” Marcus said vanishing within the shadows of the cave.
Riku walked out from the cave towards the voices calling his name. When the six mares came into view he was, tackled by Applejack and kicked in the side.
“Don’t run from your friends without explaining what happened.” Applejack said getting off him.
“Sorry I didn’t mean to worry you, or any of you.” Riku said. He soon noticed the yellow Pegasus from earlier. “Hello and what is your name?” Riku asked.
The yellow Pegasus hid behind her mane letting out a small squeak.
“Her name is Fluttershy, and I’m Twilight Sparkle.” A purple unicorn said.
“I’m Rarity darling.” A white unicorn added.
“It’s nice to formally meet you all.” Riku said with a small smile. “Wait, why come, looking for me?” Riku asked, as his face slowly became a frown.
“You’re our friend silly.” Pinkie said poping up from what seemed like nowhere.
“You all consider me a friend even after you saw what is within me.” Riku said look at them all. “When I ran off this morning it was because this tail appeared, it means it will take over.” Riku explained as the tail vanished.
“Your tails gone!” all six mares shouted.
“Yeah, it tends to go away after some time passes from the time of reverting to my normal form.” Riku said beginning to laugh.
“Let’s get back to Ponyville.” Fluttershy said shyly. “If that’s ok with you ok course.” She added.
“Sure let’s get out of this forest.” Riku said walking past them.
-Ponyville library-
“So, that man that attacked abducted you when you were fourteen?” Rainbow Dash asked.
“Yes and it was honestly the worst three years of my life.” Riku said leaning against a wall. “He will be back and will most likely bring his beast like super soldiers to try and get me back to that lab.” He added.
As he was speaking, the six mares were looking at the top of his head with intense stares.
“What’s wrong do I have something on my face?” Riku asked staring at the six mares.
“Quick question did you have those ears when we found you in the forest sugar cube?” Applejack asked.
“What ears?” Riku asked.
“The ears on the top of your head.” Pinkie said.
Upon hearing this Riku reached up and found out, he did indeed have ears on the top of his head. Pinkie poked the left ear and Riku made it twitch from the contact.
“Don’t do that, it tickles!” Riku shouted.
“Sorry.” Pinkie said returning to where she was before.
Riku sat down and began to think about this situation. As he was thinking, he was making the ears move up and down subconsciously. He finally gave up and fell onto his back in irritation.
“This has never happened before; I’ve only ever gotten a tail I don’t know how these ears got here.” Riku groaned. “Question is it bad that five white Pegasus ponies in golden armor are flying this way?” Riku asked while staring out the window.
“I completely forgot that Princess Celestia was coming to Ponyville today.” Twilight said as she walked towards the door.
Riku jumped up and ran upstairs to hide before Twilight opened the door.
“Where is it?” a pony guard in golden armor asked bluntly.
“Where is what?” Twilight asked.
“We know it’s here Celestia said she could feel a strange source of magic she has never felt before.” The guard said.
Riku slowly peeked around the corner from the room he was hiding in only to watch the guard stare right at him.
“Celestia wants a word with you.” The guard said staring into Riku’s eyes.
“Who is Celestia?” Riku asked as he slowly walked down the stairs.
“I’m Celestia.” A tall regal white alicorn said as she walked through the front door.
Riku saw the mane six all give a small bow so he did the same out of respect. He slowly looked into Celestia’s and before he could react, a field of magic surrounded him and he was unable to move.
“I thought you wanted to talk!” Riku shouted.
“I did this is so you can’t run from the questions.” Celestia said as the guards left the library. “Now, who and what are you?” Celestia asked.
“My name is Riku kagerashi and I’m human.” Riku said.
“I’ve met a human and he did not have those ears, so what are you really.” Celestia said.
“I didn’t lie I am human I just have the curse of the beast on me, it is the reason for these ears on my head.” Riku said with a scowl. “Now can I ask you to allow me to sit this pose is uncomfortable.” Riku said allowing his accent to be heard.
Celestia let the field of magic around Riku release and watched as Riku sat down.
“Who was the human you met?” Riku asked.
“I never got his name he only said that more humans will come in the future and try to take over, but a creature that is part beast and part human will rise and stop the threat.” Celestia explained. “Was he talking about you?” She added.
“Maybe, but I can’t even control the beast within me.” Riku said with a frown. “All it wants is control of my body.” Riku added looking back into Celestia’s eyes. “I promise that I won’t harm anypony just please don’t lock me up.” Riku pleaded.
“I’m not going to lock you up I just wanted that question answered, you’re free to stay in Ponyville, but if you harm one pony you’ll be locked up faster than you can blink.” Celestia said as she left the library.
Riku sighed and looked at Twilight. “Where am I sleeping?” He asked as the sun slowly went down.
“You can stay at Applejack’s until we can find you a home to live in.” Twilight said.
Riku agreed and went with Applejack home for the night.
-Secret Lab-
“The super soldier DNA is finally stable and ready for a field test.” The scientist with grey hair said with an evil chuckle. “Prepare the portal we are going to get Riku tomorrow.” He added.
Riku tossed and turned in his sleep having the same nightmare repeatedly.
-Riku’s Nightmare-
Riku saw a beast that looked like it was, made up of multiple animals. The huge beast let out a roar and caused the ground to shake under Riku’s feet. That is when he saw all his friends standing a few feet away from the beast.
“NO Get away from them!” Riku shouted, but it was no use the beast smashed its hand to the ground, and upon impact, Riku woke up shouting.
“Why were you shouting?” Applejack asked as she walked into the room.
“Just a nightmare, sorry if I woke you all up.” Riku said as he got out of bed.
“It is no big deal we were getting up anyway since it is morning.” Applejack said. “Also you can talk to your friends about your nightmares only if you want.” Applejack added as she left the room.
“I know, but I want to try and deal with it myself, now I’m going for a walk.” Riku said walking out of the guest room and towards the front door.
“What about breakfast?” Applejack asked.
“I’m not all that hungry right now so I’ll see you all after I clear my head.” Riku said closing the front door behind him. “I can’t burden anyone with my nightmares it will frighten them.” Riku whispered to himself.
-Path to Ponyville-
Riku was walking thinking about what his nightmare meant.
“What does it mean? Why did it seem like it is meant to happen?” Riku asked himself. Riku closed his eyes and began to think about the nightmare with a different perspective. “Maybe I can change what will happen.” Riku said.
“Change what?” A quiet shy voice asked.
“Nothing.” Riku said. “Wait I just realized I’m not walking towards Ponyville am I.” Riku said.
“This is the path that leads to my cottage.” Fluttershy said flying towards her house. “Would you mind helping me feed the animals?” She asked shyly.
“I’d be happy to help you.” Riku said following her.
-Fluttershy’s Cottage-
“So you do this every day without anypony’s help?” Riku asked.
“Yes, but I’m use to it since I live a distance from town.” Fluttershy said as she finished feeding the chickens.
“If you want I could help you with this every day.” Riku offered.
“You don’t have to.” Fluttershy said shyly.
“I want to help because no one or in this case no pony needs to do work alone all the time.” Riku said with a smile.
“Ok I appreciate the help.” Fluttershy said. “Also what were you talking about earlier?” She asked.
“It was just a nightmare I had last night it’s no trouble at all.” Riku said sitting down. The ears on Riku’s head began to twich. “Fluttershy I think one of your animals went into the forest.” Riku said standing up quickly.
“Oh no it’s too dangerous in the Everfree Forest for a cute little animal to be in.” Fluttershy said as she flew towards the forest. Riku followed close behind listening for any little sound.
“What is that noise?” Riku asked. Then he heard a scream come from ahead of him. “Fluttershy!” Riku shouted running towards where he heard the scream. Upon reaching the scene, Riku saw four timber wolves getting closer to Fluttershy. He ran and jumped over the wolves and sttod in front of Fluttershy.
“What are you doing Riku?” Fluttershy asked with a hint of fear in her voice.
“I’m going to protect you from these wolves.” Riku said as he glared at the wolves with an angry glare. His eye color shifted to gold and the timber wolves began to back away from Riku. Next thing he knew the wolves ran deep into the forest. “Let’s leave before they come back.” Riku said picking Fluttershy and the little bunny up into his arms and began to walk back towards Fluttershy’s cottage.
“You didn’t have to carry me.” Fluttershy said.
“I know I just don’t know what came over me.” Riku said as he set Fluttershy down. “Are you hurt?” Riku asked quickly.
“No I’m not.” Fluttershy said. “Can I ask you about your nightmare when we get back to my home?” She asked.
“I’ll tell you about my nightmare when we get to your home.” Riku said.
-Inside Fluttershy’s Cottage-
After thirty minutes, of explaining, Riku finally finished telling Fluttershy about his nightmare from the previous night.
“That’s horrible.” Fluttershy said. “And you think it might actually happen.” She added.
“Most times my dreams give me a small glimpse of the future I just hope it’s just a dream this time.” Riku said looking at the floor.
“I understand that.” Fluttershy said. “And I know this question is of topic. May I touch your ears?” Fluttershy said hiding behind her mane a bit.
“I don’t see why not.” Riku said lowering his head a bit.
Fluttershy slowly reached a hoof up and poked the wolf like ears on Riku’s head and it twitched from the contact. She then began to scratch at the base of the ear with her hoof forcing Riku to smile.
“I see why dogs like this.” Riku said leaning into Fluttershy’s hoof.
While he was distracted, he heard the front door open and saw Rainbow, twi, Rarity, Pinkie, and Applejack standing in the door.
Rainbow fell onto her back laughing so hard she had tears in her eyes. “You looked like a dog with Fluttershy scratching your ear.” Rainbow said trying to stop laughing.
“It’s not funny!” Riku shouted recomposing himself.
“It is funny because when pinkie touched your ear you shouted at her to stop it.” Rainbow said finally beginning to calm her laughter down.
“I was only letting her touch them because she asked.” Riku said his wolf ears folded down a bit from embarrassment.
“Ok that’s enough with embarrassing Riku, because we have a surprise we need to show him remember.” Twilight said looking at Rainbow Dash. “Riku will you follow us for a moment?” Twilight asked.
“Sure cause I’m curious about what you’re going to show me.” Riku said standing up.
-Just outside Ponyville-
“The princess sent me a letter telling me she got you your own house in Ponyville.” Twilight said pointing a hoof towards a house with a small garden in front. “This is yours, and we hope you like it.” She added.
“The princess actually got this for me?” Riku asked a bit confused.
“Yes she did now let’s see the inside.” Twilight said.
Riku and the mane six walked towards the door, and Riku opned it the moment he got to it. His jaw dropped in awe at what the inside looked like.
“This is amazing and way better than the containment chamber the scientists locked me in.” Riku said walking inside the house.
“Riku would you like to join us for a picnic?” Rarity asked.
“Sure I’d love to.” Riku said walking to the door. “We can look at my new home thoroughly when we return.” He added.
-Ponyville Park-
“It’s strange how my body is accepting these foods.” Riku said eating a sandwich.
“Your body most likely adapted to this world.” Twilight said with a small chuckle.
“Yeah I guess.” Riku agreed.
“Hey Riku, want to race?” Rainbow asked.
“Um…I guess.” Riku said cautiously.
“First one to that tree and back?” Rainbow asked.
“Sure.” Riku said as he got into a runner’s crouch.
“Three, Two, One!” Rainbow shouted as she and Riku took off towards the tree. To her surprise, Riku was able to keep up so she decided to go a little faster.
“You can’t go faster than me.” Riku said with a chuckle.
“Why not?” Rainbow asked confused.
“My muscles change to match that wolf that I have within me making my athletic ability skyrocket.” Riku said getting ahead of Rainbow Dash. In the end, Riku lost anyways because Rainbow could go faster than he thought and passed him half way back to the picnic blanket.
“Good race Rainbow I thought I had you near the end, but you won.” Riku said in defeat.
“Of course I won I’m the fastest flier in all of Equestria.” Rainbow boasted.
After a few hours, Riku said bye to his friends and walked Fluttershy back to her house.
“Thanks for walking me home Riku, I’ll see you in the morning.” Fluttershy said.
“It was no problem at all and I’ll be here same time as I was yesterday to help.” Riku said as Fluttershy flew into her house. “Still as beautiful as the day I first saw you.” Riku accidently said outloud causing Fluttershy to freeze with a huge blush on her face. “Did I say that out loud?” Riku asked.
“Yes, and you think I’m beautiful.” Fluttershy said hiding behind her mane.
“Of course I do and that’s actually the reason I let you touch my wolf ears earlier.” Riku said looking at the ground.
“I appreciate the complement, and I’ll see you tomorrow.” Fluttershy said quickly kissing Riku’s cheek and closing the door quickly.
Riku walked back to his home in a daze and confusion. He walked through his home to the bedroom and got into bed and went to sleep thinking about the day’s events.
-Riku’s Dream-
“Not this again.” Riku said with a groan.
“Are you ok?” a regal voice asked.
“Who are you and how are you in my dreams?” Riku asked quickly.
“I’m Princess Luna and I have the ability to enter the dreams of everypony.” Luna explained.
“Ok, now why are you here?” Riku asked.
“I’m here to see why you keep having nightmares.” Luna said. Before she could utter another word, she and Riku heard a loud roar. “Was that the wolf from before?” Luna asked.
“Nope that was something else.” Riku said running towards the roar. “We need to find a safer place to talk so until we get to that location just follow me.” He said.
“Ok, but where are we going?” Luna asked.
“A secluded part of my mind we are in my head and I know this place like the back of my hand.” Riku said with a grin. “Also whatever you see here stays between us okay.” Riku said with a now pleading face.
“Your secrets are safe between us.” Luna said following Riku.
After what seemed like an hour, Riku finally stopped and opened a door revealing a replica of the containment chamber he was kept in for so many years.
“We are safe to speak here.” Riku said. “What do you want to know?” He asked.
“What was that wolf I heard last time I was here?” Luna asked ready to get answers.
“He is the being that resides within me when he takes over I go into a rage and will kill anything that gets between me and my goals.” Riku began saying. “I’ve lived with this curse my whole life, it is also the reason I haven’t died yet.” He added. “I was kidnapped when I was fourteen and was tested on for research to make super soldiers with my DNA.” He said as a tear fell from his face remembering all the experiments. “Other than Marcus I was alone in that facility no one to depend on but myself for survival.” Riku said looking Luna in the eye.
“Have you ever tried to control the beast within you?” Luna asked.
“I have but all attempts ended in failure.” Riku said wiping the tears from his eyes.
“We will have to wrap this up the sun will be rising soon and your friends need you now.” Luna said fading from the dream.
A bright flash hit Riku’s eyes and he woke up to the sun shining bright in his eyes through the window.
-Riku’s house-
“What do these nightmares mean?” Riku asked himself looking at the ceiling. He slowly got out of bed and suddenly heard the entire town of Ponyville scream in fear.
Riku jumped from his bed and ran from his house towards all the screaming. Once he saw Ponyville he could see beast like soldiers running all over the town. The soldiers were breaking doors and destroying the town in obviously in search of something.
“No, he couldn’t have finished the beast soldier formula.” Riku said to himself. He continued to run until he made it to the edge of the town. “Stop this!” Riku shouted, but as soon as he finished his shout, the soldiers all started to run towards him.
“Come quietly or die!” a soldier shouted at Riku.
“Just because you can destroy a few buildings doesn’t mean you can fight me one on one.” Riku said with a chuckle. Six soldiers pounced onto Riku trying to force him down but all they got from him was a crouch. With a laugh, Riku put his training to use and forced the soldiers off him.
“He’s just one man and you couldn’t get him down!” a soldier shouted in disbelief.
Riku forced multiple soldiers back and knocked a few out cold. Then he heard the laugh of a mad man come from behind him.
“Riku your usefulness to our organization has come to an end.” The voice said with a laugh.
Riku spun around to see the figure but came face to face with a Hybrid of multiple animals standing before him. When the creature took on a human form, it revealed it was the grey haired scientist.
“Hello Riku do you like my new soldiers?” The scientist asked.
“Nick you used the formula on yourself?” Riku asked bewildered.
“Of course you thought I wouldn’t use it myself where would the fun be in that.” Nick said with a laugh. “Also this gives me the chance to kill you myself.” He added just before turning back into his beast form. “I’ll break every bone in your body!” Nick roared growing to be the size of a house.
“He has gone insane with the formula in his system.” Riku said to himself. Then he saw a fist fly at him on the right but could not react in time to stop it sending him flying into a house. He heard a loud and audible “Crack” and he could feel some of his ribs were broken on impact. He pulled himself from the house and was grabbed by Nick as soon as he was standing.
“You’re so weak and tiny Riku that it’s embarrassing to say I’m using your blood for the formula!” Nick shouted. He threw Riku to the ground breaking even more bones in Riku’s body.
“Riku!” The main six all shouted.
Riku forced himself to stand and coughed up blood onto the ground by his feet.
“I have to keep fighting to protect them all.” Riku said as he passed out on his stomach.
Twilight and her friends ran to Riku and as soon as they reached him, Twilight used a teleportation spell to warp them all to Canterlot.
“Twilight what happened?” Celestia asked with concern as she saw Riku on the ground next to the main six.
“The guy from two days ago has returned and attacked Riku.” Twilight explained. “Riku tried to fight back but couldn’t even touch the guy.” She added.
“Let’s go and tend his wounds.” Celestia said with a serious expression as she levitated Riku in the air with magic.
-Three hours later-
A pony docter came out of a room with a clipboard and a serious look.
“I did all I could, but all I could do was set the bones back into place.” The docter explained. “Since I don’t know his anatomy I couldn’t do more.” He added.
“Thanks for helping him.” Twilight said. “Can we see him?” She asked.
“You all can see him, but he is still out cold and his breathing is faint and rough.” The docter said with a sad expression. “He might not make it a week.” The docter added.
“Don’t say that!” the main six all shouted in unison.
“He will make it.” Fluttershy said just before hiding behind her mane.
The six mares walked into the room to see Riku laying on a bed his chest rising ever so lightly but showed he was breathing.
-Riku’s Mind-
“Why didn’t you fight back?” A rough voice asked. “You could have taken that guy down with no problem.” It added.
When Riku turned around, he saw a black wolf that was about his size and height.
“Who are you exactly?” Riku asked. “Also what are you?” He added.
“My name is Fang, and I’m a wolf.” Fang said. “Now I have a question for you.” Fang said with a scowl.
“What is it?” Riku asked.
“Do you want to save and protect your friends?” Fang asked with a serious expression.
“Of course I want to save and protect them, but I was too weak to do even that much.” Riku said with a frown.
“I can help, but it requires us to make our link stronger and more physical.” Fang said with a grin. “We need to bond on a spiritual level.” Fang added.
“Don’t you hate me and only want freedom?” Riku asked curious.
“I don’t hate you I only hate that guy who tormented us for so long.” Fang said as he walked towards Riku. “Are you willing to try my idea?” Fang asked stopping right in front of Riku.
“If it will allow me to protect my friends then I’ll do anything to make it possible.” Riku said with a smile.
“Before anything I need to show you something.” Fang said. “Being in your head and body gives me time to look around and I found something that will most likely hold the answer to why were bonded the way we are.” He added.
“What did you find?” Riku asked as Fang turned to walk off.
“Just follow.” Fang said bluntly.
-Gate of memories-
“This gate is most likely holding our answers but it requires both of us to open, but that will only happen when were ready for the answer that lies beyond that door.” Fang explained. “Now we meditate to make our spirits synchronize with one another.” Fang said as he sat down.
“Fine but this better help protect my friends.” Riku said sitting in front of Fang.
-Hospital Room Canterlot Castle-
“Will he ever wake up?” Raindow asked.
“He will we just got to believe he can.” Twilight said. As she finished speaking a loud explosion rang throughout Canterlot.
“Bring Riku to me!” Nick roared from the Canterlot gate. “You stole him before I could finish the job!” He shouted.
The main six ran through the Castle, but were stopped by Celestia.
“Where are you going?” Celestia asked.
“We’re going to help defend Canterlot.” Twilight said.
“Take the elements and see if they can help.” Celestia said as she levitated the elements of Harmony to the six.
“We won’t let you down.” Rainbow said as all six ran through the city.
“Really you six are going to fight me.” Nick said as he began to laugh. “Riku couldn’t even touch me what makes you think that you can?” He asked.
“We won’t allow you to harm Riku again.” Twilight said.
“Yeah you big meanie!” Pinkie shouted.
“It’s your funeral.” Nick said with a chuckle.
-Hospital room Canterlot Castle-
Riku woke up with a groan and gripped his side in pain.
“Can someone get the license plate of that truck?” Riku said with a pained chuckle.
“You’re awake!” Luna shouted as she passed by the door to his room.
“Where are my friends?” Riku asked looking around the room.
“They went to fight that guy who put you in here.” Luna said walking towards Riku.
“They what!” Riku shouted surprised. He jumped up from the bed and ran to the window. “I was no match for him they’ll die if he hits them once.” Riku said placing one foot on the windowsill. “I’m going to help them.” Riku said jumping from the window of the castle.
“But you’re still hurt!” Luna shouted concerned.
“I may be hurt but I won’t forgive myself if they die for a problem I caused!” Riku shouted as he landed on the ground. He took off at full sprint through Canterlot racing towards Nick.
“You will all die now, and then I’ll send Riku to join you in the next world!” Nick shouted slamming a fist into the force field Twilight made around her and her friends.
Riku saw the battle come into view and he could see the force field twilight was holding began to crack. Soon the force field vanished from the stress.
“Prepare to die!” Nick shouted.
Twilight and her friends got low to the ground eyes closed waiting for what was to come. Then they heard a voice they thought they would never hear again.
“Hey are you all ok?” Riku asked holding Nicks fist against his back.
“Riku you’re ok!” the main six shouted excited.
“Celebrate later just get out of here I’ll handle this.” Riku said with a smile. “I promise not to die.” He added.
“Pinkie promise?” Pinkie asked.
“Yes, I pinkie promise.” Riku said.
“Cross your heart and hope to fly stick a cupcake in your eye?” Pinkie asked performing the motions.
“Yes, cross my heart and hope to fly stick a cupcake in my eye.” Riku said as he did the motions.
“Ok you promised.” Pinkie said running with her friends to the Castle.
“How cute.” Nick said with a laugh as he pulled his fist away.
Riku’s body had steam coming off it as black fur covered him from head to toe. His head took on a wolf appearance and he grew a tail and his legs became more wolf like. He closed his eyes and when he opened them again, he gazed at Nick with his now golden eyes.
“I’m going to kill you for trying to harm my friends!” Riku shouted in a rough voice.
“It’s a miracle that you survived the beating I gave you.” Nick said with a laugh. “To bad you need to die now.” He added with a growl.
“Nick you may have the beast formula in your system but I’m the one who had it longer.” Riku said as he popped every joint in his body. “When I lost to you earlier it was because I didn’t transform.” He added as he glared daggers into Nick.
“Riku your weak and always will be.” Nick said walking towards Riku.
“I suggest you stand down before I hurt you Nick.” Riku warned.
“You hurt me now that is a joke.” Nick said laughing.
Riku vanished from where he was standing and kneed Nick in the gut forcing him back. Riku brought his fist forward and hit Nick in the left shoulder trying his best to break it.
“As I said it was a joke.” Nick said in a calm voice. “You can’t hurt me because I’m stronger than that wolf within you.” Nick calmly said as he kicked Riku’s gut forcing him into the air.
“We can’t give up!” Fang roared within Riku’s mind.
“I know Fang but I’m trying to find a weakness in his defense.” Riku explained. Riku vanished in front of Nick’s eyes and was nowhere to be seen. “That’s the problem with your huge size you have a huge blind spot behind you.” Riku said with a laugh.
“For a weak fool you really know how to run away in fear.” Nick said laughing.
“Who said it was out of fear.” Riku said kicking the back of Nick’s head.
“As I said you can’t beat me!” Nick shouted turning around to find Riku was no longer there. “Where did you go?” He questioned.
“Your blind spot is huge!” Riku shouted kicking Nick square in the back. “Damn his body is too tough for me to do any real damage.” Riku admitted.
A tail hit Riku in the side throwing him away as if he weighed nothing. He slowly stood back up and pushed his body past its limit. He moved faster and all that was seen of Riku was a black blur hitting Nick multiple times but do little to no damage.
“That tickles.” Nick said with a laugh as he hit Riku to the ground. “I’m going to save you for last; first I’ll kill your so called friends.” Nick added.
Nick walked towards the castle and Riku could hardly move a muscle. He watch Nick reach the castle and saw him shrink down to fit in the door.
“Fang we need to push ourselves even further than this.” Riku said with a groan of pain.
“I know, but if we go beyond your body’s limit it will tear itself apart.” Fang said with a saddened tone. “But we have no other choice, are you willing to risk this.” He asked.
“Anything to protect my friends.” Riku said forcing himself to stand. “Let’s protect our friends!” Riku roared.
Riku’s black fur began to move like black flames and three tails formed to match the first and were moving like flames licking at the air. An ancient rune appeared on Riku’s forehead and had a faint red glow. He began to walk towards the castle anger in his eyes. Riku kicked off with one foot and was flying towards the castle at full speed.
“Nick I cannot let you harm them!” Riku roared as he flew in the door landing on his feet sliding to a stop.
“Well this is a new form for you.” Nick said. “But it won’t help.”
“Actually I’m stronger than you think I will win this fight, because I made a promise to my friends that I intend to keep.” Riku said as the flames on his tails moved faster. “I’m going to burn you Nick.”
“It can’t be.” Celestia said under her breath.
Riku froze in place as Nick grabbed Fluttershy by the wings and could hear her cry of pain, as her wings were broken at the base.
“Let her go Nick she has nothing to do with this.” Riku said.
“She has everything to do with this you fool I could see her in your thoughts.” Nick said with a laugh. Nick grew wings, flew out of the castle, and soared into the sky. “Come and get me Dog.” Nick taunted.
Riku ran out the door and looked to the sky to find Nick.
“Enjoy the fall.” Nick whispered into Fluttershy’s ear. Nick looked down and let Fluttershy go to plummet 800 ft to the ground.
“You bastard!” Riku roared jumping with all his might aiming to catch Fluttershy. Riku watched Nick fly towards him from the right and dodges enough to use Nick as a spring board to get higher.
“Did you just use me as a god damned spring board?” Nick said questioning what just happened.
“Don’t worry I got you.” Riku said in a calming voice as he caught Fluttershy. “I won’t let him harm you again.”
“My wings hurt.” Fluttershy said curling in tight against Riku’s chest.
“Fine you’ll die with your pony lover then!” Nick roared as he flew towards Riku and Fluttershy.
“I’m sorry Nick but I Pinkie promised that I wouldn’t die.” Riku said dodging Nick and landing on his feet in front of the castle door. “Please take care of her.” Riku said laying Fluttershy on the floor of the throne room.
“Remember you promised.” Pinkie said.
“I know and I won’t die.” Riku confirmed as he fell to his knees in pain.
“Riku does your whole body hurt?” Celestia asked.
“How did you know?” Riku asked confused.
“You are only human and this form is tearing your body apart slowly from the inside out.” Celestia said walking closer to Riku.
“That won’t matter if I can’t beat Nick soon.” Riku said standing up again. “I need to keep fighting to protect you all.”
“We know but don’t go past your human limitations.” Celestia said.
Riku ran out the door and leaped into the air crashing into Nick with his shoulder.
“So returned for more have you.” Nick said gripping Riku’s neck tightly.
“Yeah but you are the one who will lose here.” Riku coughed out.
Nick threw Riku into the castle and watched him slide towards the main six, Celestia, and Luna.
“I won’t let you harm anypony.” Riku said slowly standing again. “I can’t let you win here!” Riku roared as his tails burned with long black flames. “My friends have shown me Kindness, Loyalty, Generosity, Honesty, Laughter, and the Magic of Friendship even though we just met a few days ago.” Riku said.
When he finished speaking the elements of harmony began to glow brightly behind him.
“Aim the elements at Riku.” Celestia said motioning with her hoof.
After the elements were aimed at Riku six beams fired at Riku but were not harming him instead they gave him more power.
“What is this?” Riku asked.
“The elements have given you more power but it will last as long as your body doesn’t fail.” Celestia explained.
“I won’t let you down princess.” Riku said as the symbol of the elements appeared on his chest glowing faintly.
“It won’t matter how much power you gain!” Nick roared running at Riku aiming for his neck.
“Too slow Nick.” Riku said as he stopped Nick’s arm before he could get close. “I won’t kill you but I will send you away.”
“I’d like to see you try.” Nick said. “I’m the strongest of us both” He gloated.
Riku vanished and Nick began to fly back with small rings of black flames appearing and dissipating after each hit. Finally, Nick stopped moving and had a look of complete shock on his face.
“I’m sending you back to the human world.” Riku explained. “Any portal that was made to come here will collapse and be destroyed.” He added kneeling near Nick. “Never come back if you want to live.” Riku said as a portal opened.
Riku grabbed Nick by the back of the neck and threw him into the portal, then watched it close before his eyes.
“That was harder than it needed to be.” Riku said turning to face his friends. When he turned, he could see his friends running towards him as he fell to the ground unconscious and reverting to normal form again.
“Is he still alive?” Rainbow asked.
“Of course he is he Pinkie promised he wouldn’t die.” Pinkie said
“Yes he is alive but he is also asleep.” Twilight said levitating Riku into the air. “Let’s get him back to his bed.”
-5 hours later-
Riku woke up in a panic and was forced back down by five of his friends.
“You have to stay down your body has multiple cases of muscle tearing and could cause further injury if you move to quickly.” Twilight said as Riku lay his head back down.
“Is Fluttershy ok?” Riku asked.
“Her wings were broken in multiple places but she will recover and will fly again in two months.” Rainbow said. “If you hadn’t saved her in that fall she could have died.”
“I’m glad, but when can I leave this room I really hate hospitals.” Riku said with a chuckle.
“You’re stuck here until your muscles are fully healed in four months.” Twilight said.
“Four months you’re kidding right!” Riku shouted in protest.
“Sorry but docters orders.” Twilight said as she and her friends sat down.
“I’m glad you’re all ok and I want to see Fluttershy soon.” Riku said as he slowly drifted back to sleep.
"Four months is far too long." Riku said to himself as he lay in bed. "I guess I will take a walk to try and relax."
Riku got out of bed and grabbed his crutch and began slowly walking out of the room. "I feel ridiculous." He mumbled as he walked down the hall. 'Riku shouldn't you stay in bed and recover?' Fang said with curiosity in his voice. "I should but it is hard to sleep when you do nothing all day for two weeks straight." Riku retorted. 'That may be but it is for the best given your body was nearly torn beyond repair.' Fang explained as Riku reached the door to the royal garden.
"What a beautiful night." Riku said as he looked up at the starry night sky. "She did another wonderful job." He added with a sigh.
'Riku what are you planning?' Fang asked as he noticed Riku drop his crutch.
"I am going to get a small workout in before any of the guards notice i am gone." Riku explained with a small laugh as he limped to a small clearing. "I have to continue training since Nick will most likely build another portal and come to get pay back." He added as he began punching at the air. "It may be painful but i have to work through it if I ever want to use that power again."
'Riku, we should never do that again because of how much strain it puts on your body. You may never recover the next time we use it.' Fang said.
"Fang you and I both know Nick will return and I was only able to beat him with that power." Riku argued as he heard the rattling of armor. "So they realized I came out here again did they."
"Riku we are here to take you back to your room." A guard said as he rounded a corner. "He's on the run again! Cut him off before he can leave the garden!" The guard shouted as more guards ran through the maze like garden.
"The chase is on." Riku whispered to himself as he ran through the garden only to fall to his knees in pain. "It hurts......but I have felt worse." He groaned as a magical aura lifted him into the air. "Luna no fair!" Riku shouted with a chuckle. "I was having fun." He added as he was warped back into bed.
"You need to rest and recover before you get back to training." Luna said as she walked towards the door. "Sweet dreams." She added with a smile as she left the room.
The next morning Riku wake up and realized the pain he felt during the night wasn't as extreme as it was before.
"I wonder....." Riku said and he jumped out of bed and got dressed. "Might as well go for a morning run before anyone can stop me." H added as he ran towards the window and jumped out. "It still hurts a bit but for some reason I feel better then before.
'Riku, during the night I was examining your body and discovered something that caught my interest.' Fang said as Riku landed in the castle court yard.
"What might that be Fang?" Riku asked.
'Your body is healing at an accelerated rate. A rate which is not seen in humans.' Fang explained as Riku began running at a full sprint. 'I also tried to open that door that is in your head and discovered some memories have leaked out, but they are nothing but blurry images at the moment.'
"When did those leak out?" Riku asked. "Was it when we synced our spirits together?"
'That is the exact moment it happened.' Fang agreed. 'Only time will tell what these images hold.' He added before going quiet.
"I wonder what the future holds for me." Riku said to him self as he came to a sliding halt. "So you all noticed I ran off again?" Riku asked as a small squad of guards stood in his path. "Later!" He shouted turning around and taking off down the road.
"Cut him off." One of the guards said as a Pegasus took to the sky and began following Riku's route.
"He is headed for the main gate!" the Pegasus shouted."
"No giving away my position!" Riku shouted with a laugh as he neared the gate. "Time to go and see how my friends are doing." He said to himself as he noticed a wall of guards in his path. "You can try but you will fail."
"Halt!" A couple of guards shouted in unison as Riku turned and began running up the wall.
"As I said you can try!" Riku shouted with a laugh as he made it to the top. "What a view." He added before leaping off the other side and began his run to Ponyville.