> Washed Up > by Sparrow Knight > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1 - Awakening and Crashing > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was a cool spring morning, the sun had risen not long before and began to dry up the residue of a heavy shower of rain that had fallen upon a small port town known as Redwater Bay due to large reef of mostly precious coral that nearly completely cut off the bay from the open ocean, due to this fact, there was also a booming fishing industry in the small port town. Several anthropomorphic Earth ponies and unicorns walked the docklands while inspecting their ships for any damages from the heavy storm the night earlier while others frantically rushed around the town in an attempt to organize it for the arrival of the Royal sisters of the Nation of Equestria that the town sat on the eastern coast of and the heroines who harnessed the ancient artifacts known as the Elements of Harmony. All seemed to be going well until a powerful westerly gust of wind ripped through the town, knocking pegasi out of the sky, tearing sails off the fishing ships, sending rubbish and produce through the air and pushing ponies over. In the ensuing chaos, nopony noticed a large heavily damaged warship sail through the mouth of the bay towards the town, it’s hull was all but destroyed, large ballista bolts protruded from the hull. The dragon figurehead was torn from the bow of the ship and dangling by a series of ropes, the bulwarks were either smashed inwards over the deck or completely missing. The cabin and helm of the ship were replaced with a burning wreckage of metal and wood while the remaining masts and sails were barely holding together as sailed through the water at high speed towards the dock, the few buoys in it’s way were crushed beneath the massive vessel. As the ship reached an empty dock, it didn’t stop or change it’s direction instead it went through the wooden docks, sending anyone on the port ducking for cover from flying wood. To the surprise of all the ponies nearby, when the ship hit the stone wall at the end of the docks, it managed to be lifted up slightly and stop entirely, sending flaming planks and warped metal across the street. Once the ship stopped, dozens of the town’s guards surrounded the ship in the air and on the street incase anything leapt from it and attacked but nothing came out. “Captain should we storm it?” A silver armored guard asked a unicorn mare in silver armour that had a red crest on her helmet, similar to her mane. “Let’s wait until the Princesses and Elements of Harmony arrive before we try anything and they may know something we don’t” She said as she crossed her arms. (Within the ship, an hour later) “Oh god my head” a crimson haired man groaned softly as he slowly opened his eyes to discover that he was laying on a hard wooden floor with a axe sticking out of the ground near his head. He blinked a few times before he placed his hands on the floor and attempted to push himself up but stopped when a wave of pain cut through his body causing him to give a cry of pain before dropping back down. “What the?” He muttered as he looked at his legs to see that it had been impaled by a wooden spike that he had landed on “Fuck” He groaned as he carefully rotated his body so he could get his hands at the spike after collecting the axe and used it to cut the spike from the floor so he could move. “Okay… oww… where am i?” He asked as he looked around before he felt warm liquid coming down the side of his face, making him try and wipe it away. After a quick inspection of his hand to see that he had wiped blood from his forehead, he attempted to stand again, only for a wave of dizziness to overcome him making him fall to the ground again. “Goddamn it!” He shouted in pain and annoyance. “Did you hear that?” A far off voice asked causing the man to look around just as he noticed that he was in some kind of ship, due to it being made of mostly wood and the gently rocking. “Hello!?” He called out while using the axe to help him get to his feet while a soft thud were heard from behind a door on the far side of the darkened room. “Twilight what are you thinking?” Another voice asked in a worried tone as the sound of footsteps grew followed. “The voice came from in here” The voice that the man believed was Twilight said before the handle of the door rattled. “It’s locked” The man was about to call out again before a surge of pain shot through his head and leg causing him to groan in pain loudly.”Fuck!” he shouted in pain as several more thuds were heard from behind the door. “Princess it sounds like somepony is in pain in there!” A voice shouted from behind the door just as the door handle ratted more vigorously. “Somepony?” The man asked confused just as the door exploded inwards, sending a wave of shrapnel towards him and forcing him to cover his face as several chunks of wood dug into his arms and back. “Applejack! I could have unlocked the door with my magic!” Twilight cried out as light from outside the room flooded the room. “ Ah’m sorry Twi, ah didn’t mean ta ‘it it so ‘ard” A voice with a strong southern accent stated. “Girls what is that?” a soft voice asked. “I don’t know Fluttershy” Twilight asked as the man groaned and got to his feet once again and gritted his teeth. “Oh my Celestia, it is hurt!” The voice that the man suspected was Fluttershy said before he suddenly felt a pair of gently hand touch his arm making him look to the person only to have a mini heart attack. Standing beside him was a five foot ten butter furred horse person with a set of buttery bird winds on her back, she had long pink hair and a identical pink tail. She wore a green sweater that hugged her e cup breasts and a light pink knee length skirt with white legging beneath. “Are you okay?” She asked in a soft tone only for the man to take a step backward onto his impaled leg, making a shot of white hot pain to rip through his leg and bringing him back down onto the deck with a hard thud, forcing the chucks of wood in his back and arm to be pushed deeper. “Damn it!” He growled through gritted teeth while clutching his wounded leg tightly. “Oh no! Twilight we need to get it to the hospital” Fluttershy said as she quickly knelt down next to the man. “Okay, Rainbow Dash can you…” “On in!” A new voice said briefly. “We are gonna get you help don’t worry” The butter pegasus said with a soft smile. “What the hell are you?” He asked as he looked at her. “Um i am a pony… what are you?” She asked slightly curious. “Pony? I’m a human” He said to her as two new ponies suddenly appeared, own with a violet horn and standing at roughly five foot seven and wearing a light grey blouse that covered her c cup breasts and long black leggings. She had a dark purple mane with a streak of violet and light purple running down it. The other was a orange pony standing a six foot and wearing a red flannel with the sleeves rolled up, large double d breasts, light brown cargo pants and a stetson on her yellow mane that was in a ponytail. Upon seeing the man, her face wore a hard glare before she noticed the damage to his body from the door exploding, causing her to rub the back of her neck. “Ah’m sorry ‘bout that” She said before kneeling down next to him and inspecting the two foot long shard of foot currently living in his left leg. “Ah didn’t do this… Did ah?” She asked pointing to object. “No, i woke up with that thing there” He grunted as he pulled himself away from the ponies with his arms, doing his best to ignore the burning and itching in his back and arms as he did so. “Don’t move, please wait until the doctor gets here!” Fluttershy asked as she grabbed his uninjured leg. “What’s ya name?” The southern mare asked him, gaining his attention and doing her best to distract him. “Lex… i think?” He said as he gave a blank stare for a few moments. “Yea Lex” He said. “Ya think?” The mare asked. “Yea, it’s just hard to think right now with my head pounding”. Lec said holding his head. “It looks like it may have some brain damage” The violet mare said kneeling next to Fluttershy and pulling a handkerchief from her breast pocket and dabbing his bleeding forehead, making his wince slightly. “Lovely” He said sarcastically and rolled his eyes. “Can i at least get your names?” He asked them. “On my name is Twilight Sparkle” The Violet mare said with a soft smile. “I’m Fluttershy” The butter mare said quietly. “And ah’m Applejack” The southern mare said as she glanced at Lex’s leg. “Um Twi do ya have any spells that could heal this?” She said as her hand wrapped around the wooden spike and making Lex jump slightly. “I actually do… but i have never tried it before” Twilight said as she also looked at the wound. “Spell?” Lex asked, only to get ignored as Twilight’s horn was suddenly surrounded in a bright violet aura. “Oh no…” He started only for a softly purple beam to shoot from her at the spike, but to the surprise of the mares, it bounced off and flew up and struck Lex in the face, knocking him out cold. “What just happened!” Fluttershy asked confused. “I messed up with the spell but it shouldn’t have deflected… which is weird.” She said. “Maybe it is magic proof” A tall alabaster mare in a long white dress that hugged her curvaceous form, she had large swan like wings and a long sharp horn. Her pink eyes watched the entire encounter with curiosity as her multi colored mane flowed in a nonexistent breeze. “No, if it was then it would not have been knocked out… maybe it was the wood?” Twilight said as Applejack looked at the mare behind Twilight and Fluttershy. “But how can wood be magic proof?” The nine foot eight mare asked with a soft smile. “Maybe it is enchanted… no then it couldn’t be magic proo…” Twilight said turning only for her pupils to go pin pricked while Fluttershy squeaked. “Princess Celestia sorry i…” “It is okay Twilight, and the wood is most likely polished with a special concoction, now also i doubt it would be good for your new friend here for those to stay in his skin” She said with a soft smile as she walked around and looked at Lex. “I have never before heard of a Human and hoping he hasn’t suffered any severe brain damage, i would be delighted to find out more about his species or at least what happened to this ship” She said as she her horn glowed a majestic gold along with the four individuals before her a moment before they all vanished in the blink of an eye. (A nearby Hospital) “So as you can see we need a doctor.” A light blue pegasus mare with a rough rainbow mane and tail, she was wearing a dark blue tank top that covered her b cup breasts and black short shorts. “Alright ms we… “ The nurse started before a bright flash filled the waiting room before vanishing to reveal Twilight, Fluttershy, Applejack and the Princess, along with a man in a black torn jacket, jeans and a blood soaked top. Blood dripped from his leg from a large hole, and from his torso from multiple holes. “Oh no!” another Nurse said running over to the man lying on the hospital floor. “Oh dear, it would appear it was the wood” The princess said as she watched several pony doctors and nurses collect the unconscious man and put him on a stretcher before taking him away. “Twilight please remain here with your friends for when our new friend awakes while My sister and i shall investigate the ship” Celestia said, gaining a nod from the violet Unicorn before she teleported away. > Chapter 2 - Making Friends > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Found anything yet?” The princess asked a pair of guards. “Actually we have, um in the cargo hold were dozens of empty crates along with a manafest” A unicorn mare in golden armour said as she handed the the manifest to the giant pony. “Hmm well this is fascinating. .. anything else?” She asked. “Yes actually, we discovered this letter among the remains of the Captain’s quarters and the weirdest thing is that the Flag that was on the top of the mast was a pre Equestria flag” The pegasus stallion said as he produced the letter, which Celestia collected and nodded. “Thank you, keeping checking as there may be secret compartments” Celestis explained before she turned and walked to the edge of the ship and used her wings to float down, landing in front of a eight foot nine tall midnight blue Alicorn mare with a flowing blue mane that resembled the night sky, she wore a azure dress with onyx jewellry. Her dress hugged her large curves as her midnight wings hugged her back. “Discover anything of importance Sister?” The shorter Alicorn questioned. “Yes actually, several piece of paper work, a letter and a interesting flag” Celestia explained. “How is our friend going Luna?” She asked concerned. “He is going alright, his torso, legs and waist are badly bruised, several tattoos cover his body… um oh some letters and paperwork were discovered in his clothes along with a wallet and a phone, which is beyond repair” Luna explained as she rubbed her chin. “Also he is supposed to awake some time today” Luna explained. “Alright well we best read over what we have collected before we talk to Mr Lex” Celestia said, gaining a nod from her sister. (Nearby Hospital) The smell of bleach and soft beeping along with the glare from a nearby window roused the badly injured man from his sleep with a pained groaned. “Where am I?” he asked as he slowly looked around the white room “A hospital?” he questioned as he attempted to sit up, only achieving sharp pain to shoot through his limbs and chest, causing him to drop back down onto the bed. “You're awake?” a voice asked making Lex look to the far end of the room to see a dark grey stallion in golden armour was sitting down in a chair with a magazine in his lap. “Yea… how long have I been out?” He asked as the guard rose from his seat and walked over before taking a small device and using it to raise half of the hospital bed so Lex was sitting up. “Thanks” “No worries, and nearly twenty four hours” He explained as he pressed a button. “Nurse should be here soon” He said as he walked back over to his seat and resumed reading his magazine. “Okay” Lex said as he relaxed on the bed before the door opened and a lime unicorn mare in a white nurse outfit entered quickly. “Is everything okay?” She asked the guard. “He is awake” The guard said without looking up. “Oh good” She said before turning to Lex and giving him a soft kind smile before she walked over to the man and checked all the devices he was connected to before she turned off the heart monitor and gently took his wrist and watched her wrist watch for a few moments before she made a face. “The machine is malfunctioning, you heart rate is down… but I don't know if that is normal for you or not” She muttered to herself before looking at the man’s face. “Good Afternoon” “Hey, um how bad are my injuries?” he asked her. “Well several broken ribs, broken leg, internal bleeding and a cracked skull… it is also suspected that you may be suffering from memory loss so I am just gonna ask you a few questions” She said, gaining a nod from the man before she walked to the end of the bed and collected a clipboard from the end of the bed. “Ready?” “As I'll ever be” Lex said. “Okay… What is your full name?” She asked. “Lex … um… “ He started only to stop and frown as he did his best to remember. “It's okay, don't over work yourself right now” The nurse said. “How old are you?” She asked. “I think 26… I think” He said with a shrug only to winch as pain shot through him. “Okay” She said writing down what he said. “Names of your parents?” She asked only for Lex to shake his head. “Any Siblings?” she added, only for him to shrug. “Children or partners?” “No I'm sorry Nurse” He sighed, causing her to frown slightly. “It’s okay, um well already know you are male so…” She started only for the door to open, revealing Twilight, Applejack, Fluttershy and three other mares. “He’s awake” Twilight said as the group walked over to the bed. “How are you feeling?” Twilight asked. “Sore” He stated. “Is there anything that he can be given to help with the pain?” Fluttershy asked the nurse. “Not at the moment as the Princess has decided to have let him be put on a experimental magic infused medicine to repair the damages, in a few days he will be right as rain” The nurse explained. “Experimental?” Lex asked confused. “Yes, normally it is saved for dragons and other races with tough skin… the Princess said it would not be a good idea for Mr Lex to be put into surgery as we have never experienced a human before and she would rather have him operated on by Canterlot surgeons if the need arose” The nurse explained. “Fair enough…” Lex said as he forced himself to sit up. “So when can I get out?” He asked. “When I deem that you are not a threat to my little ponies” A regal voice said making the group look to the door, while the guard stood up straight and saluted, standing in the doorway were two tall wing unicorns. “Princess Celestia!” Twilight said excitedly as the alabaster Princess walked over with a soft smile. “Hello Twilight Sparkle, may you and your friends please excuse us so we may speak to Mr Lex by ourselves” She said as the Midnight blue Alicorn walked over after signalling for the guard to leave. “But Princess” Twilight said only for Celestia sigh. “Twilight this is a matter of national security” The second Alicorn said. “So please leave” She added which Twilight looked to Celestia for support. “Quickly now” Celestia said as the ponies left the room, leaving the two Alicorns by the human. “Um hi” Lex said nervously to the two giantesses. “Greetings” The Midnight Alicorn said. “Now that we are alone, do you remember how you came to be on that ship?” Celestia asked. “All I remember is waking up in pain in a dark room” Lex explained. “Alright” Celestia said. “What do you mean Alright? Aren't you going to question me further to see if I may be lying?” He asked. “No need, for you see that ‘medicine’ is infused with a powerful yet temporary truth potion also known as ‘Sinner’s Confession’ .” The second Alicorn explained. “Next question, do you intend to cause any harm or sexually assault any pony?” Celestia asked with a stern expression. “I'd only hurt people if they are threatening my life or my interests and no I wouldn't sexually assault anyone… i feel sick at the thought” Lex explained which Celestia and the other Alicorn glared at him for a moment before the taller Alicorn’s horn glowed gold while Lex’s body was surrounded in a similar aura moments before all the tightness and pain in his body vanished. “Alright well that should fix most of the problems, you'll still have a limp for a long time and a lack of your previous experiences” Celestia explained. “Um okay then… so what happens now?” Lex asked. “Well my dear sister Luna has asked to help you regain your memory as she is adept In matters of dreams and such so that may help and also you shall be staying in Ponyville where my student and her friends shall assist you with getting on your feet” Celestia explained. “Okay that seems fair I guess” He stated before looking out the window. “What is wrong?” Luna asked stepping forward. “feels like I have failed to do something important and I…” He started only to stop mid sentence and sigh. “I really want to be off this truth potion” He said to them, which made the sisters look to each other before Celestia walked to the door and opened it. “Mr Lex is fit enough to leave now” She said before she looked back to Lex. “Luna and I shall take our leave now and leave you in the care of Twilight and her friends” Celestia said receiving a confused look from her sister. “Ahh yes farewell, I shall see you soon” Luna said with a quick wave before the pair left the room. “That went well” Celestia said as the pair walked down the hospital halls before Luna grabbed her by the arm. “What?” She asked looking to her sister confused. “What in mother’s name are you doing?” Luna asked visibly irritated. “What do you mean Luna?” “We agreed that we would at least inform him of where that ship came from in an attempt to jog some memory for his sake” Luna said. “Yes we could but when we were in there, it occurred to me that we could use this information to help find the colonial fleet that we thought Discord destroyed” Celestia explained. “Yes I see where are coming from but it would also be smart to have their comrade with us before going and to at least have him remember them so we are not attacked” “And why would they attack us?” Celestia asked confused. “It has been over a thousand years and they may believe Discord is still in control here, also if you have noticed there is a lot more pink around then from before Discord was around.” Luna explained as Celestia gave her sister yet another confused look. “Discord uses pink a lot so they may believe that our fleet, which I will point out has a lot of pink, is his so they may destroy it” “They wouldn't do something so crazy as th… oh right they may believe they are dealing with Discord.” Celestia said gaining a nod from Luna. “Okay I well you work on his memories and I shall see to figuring out where these Pre- Equestrians are located.” Celestia said to her sister. “Agreed” Luna said. (Hospital Room) “Okay so just need to…” Lex said as he slipped out of the bed only to have his arm snagged on the iv tube connected to his arm, resulting in the needle being ripped from his arm. “FUCK!” he shouted in pain and gripped his arm just as several ponies ran it. “What's wrong!” Twilight asked as she ran over with her friends. “Nothing just being a idiot” He said as he pulled his hand away revealing his bleeding are which caused a alabaster unicorn mare with a curly purple mane and tail in a long white dress, with a open front that revealed most of her double d cup breasts and a strange tattoo on her left breast, to faint. “Ah crap Rarity!” Applejack said before tending to her friend. “What did you do silly?” a bouncing pink mare with pink poofy hair in a baby blue top and green shorts asked as her large breasts bounces with her. “Ahh just accidentally ripped the iv from my arm… um are you wearing a bra?” he asked. “No silly it's a tuesday and I am Pinkie Pie” She said as Lex cocked an eyebrow. “Um okay then and I'm Lex” He said to her as he offered his hand, only for the mare to suddenly bear hug him. “You know I am still sore” He added causing the mare to let go. “Sorry” She said. “It's fine… and you are?” Lex asked the rainbow maned pegasus giving the man a death stare. “Your worse nightmare” She said crossing her arms. “Hmmm nah your not ugly enough” Lex said to the five foot three blue pegasus mare. “So why are you my nightmare?” He asked. “I will be if you hurt my friends” She threatened. “Right… so got a name or will you just be dubbed angry rainbow?” He asked as she glared at him. “Rainbow Dash” She said to him. “There now was that so hard?” he asked her as he offered his hand. “I'm Lex, and I won't hurt your friends as I am alive because of them” He added. “Fair enough” She said shaking his hand. > Chapter 3 - First Memory > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Is that the best you can do little brother?” A raven haired man laughed as he kicked a smaller and younger Lex to the ground, said man was near six foot eleven and coated in heavy plate armor with the crest of a black dragon on his cuirass. The pair were in a large courtyard surrounded my knights with similar armour to the man who laughed with him. “This isn’t fair Lee” Lex groaned as he pushed himself off the ground on shaking arms, his form nearly identical to the man in front of him save for being half his size. “You’re so much bigger than me” “Oh come on, Marcius is stronger than you and he is younger than you” Lee said with a smirk as Lex grabbed his toy sword from the ground and charged, only to be effortlessly parried and punched in the jaw, sending him back to the ground. “You say you want to be as strong as dad and yet your nephew is better than you… He would be disappointed in you” Lee said with a frown before he tossed his sword down next to Lex. “Put that away… and don’t bother me again for lessons if you are not going to learn” Lee said as he walked away, leaving Lex on the ground while holding his bleeding jaw. “Hmm this is interesting” A voice said causing Lex to look around before a wave of white sand blew through the small courtyard causing it and the crowd to dissolve into sand as Lex grew to his normal height and build and the blood from his mouth vanished. “Who’s there?” Lex asked as he got to his feet and looked around before Luna appeared before him. “It’s only me, i decided to have a quick look to see if any of your dreams may produce any viable memories for you” She explained as she sighed. “I had hoped to find something more cheerful… not something that would have such a strong feeling of shame attached to it.” Luna said. “I don’t understand how you are even here” Lex said as he tapped his lips, looked at his fingers before wiping his hand on his top. “Oh well i have an affinity for dream walking… i thought i explained that.” She said as Lex just shrugged. “Okay well does this trigger any other memories?” Luna asked. “Yea… it does, this was the morning before the fall of my brother’s reign as a tyrant king” Lex sighed as Luna recoiled slightly. “Is that personal bias or was he actually a tyrant?” Luna asked. “An actual one, he butchered protesters in the streets, murdered hundreds and tortured anyone not related by blood to death… this was round the time i was around the time i was fifteen and most of the neighbouring nations wanted him and all his family dead” Lex explained. “Celestia would have mentioned a nation lead by a tyrannical humans.. Probably would not have helped save your life either so this must have been a different world… but that is just an assumption” Luna thought out loud before she looked to Lex. “ Remember anything else?” She asked. “Only that i feel deep regret that i hated him the last time i saw him alive” Lex sighed. “Hmm alright, well if you want i can continue with digging through your dreams and memories in an attempt to trigger another surge of memory” Luna offered. “Yea that seems like a good idea” Lex said as the world around began to light up. “Hmm seems like you are waking up or somepony is waking you up… until next time Mr Lex” Luna said with a short bow of her head. “Please call me Lex if that is alright princess” Lex said. “Hmm alright, then please call me Luna then” Said said with a smile before she vanished as the world around them collapsed (Waking world) “Lex it’s time to wake up!” A cheerful voice cheered as Lex gave an annoyed groaned before opening his eyes to see the mare known as Pinkie Pie was in his face. “Holy shit!” He said startled as he moved away, only to fall out of his booth and land hard on the hard wooden floor of the train car that the group was currently on board. “Fuck” He growled in pain for a moment before he climbed to his feet and rubbed his shoulder. “Sorry Lex” Pinkie said as he mane seemed flatter than it was a few moments earlier. “Nah nah it’s alright just don’t get in my face please” He asked as her mane suddenly sprang back up. “Um okay?” He said with a raised eyebrow. “Okie Dokie Lokie… oh and Twilight wanted me to wake you to say that we will be arrive at Ponyville in a few minutes” Pinkie said. “Okay cool.. Um bathroom?” He asked as the hyper mare grabbed him by the wrist and dragged him to the end of the cart passed the rest of the mares known as the mane six. “Here you go” Pinkie said smiling. “Thanks” He nodded to her before he entered the small bathroom and stood in front of the small wash basin and filled it with cold water. He gave a sigh before he splashed his face with water and ran his wet hands through his hair to form it slightly before looking up to the mirror before him to see a crimson haired man with pale blue eyes looking back at him. A long, star shaped poorly healed scar marked the left side of his neck while the other was marked with dark crimson sword tattoo with silver chains wrapped around it, a short goatee coated his face along with a nazty hooked scar running from his bottom lip and connected with the star shaped scar on his neck. “What happened to me?” He muttered before looking down at his black jacket and removed it along with a heavily blood stained white top and dumped them on the ground to reveal his toned chest and arms. The sight gained some of the man’s interest as he saw a similar emblem on his lower stomach as the one that was on Lee’s chest plate, surrounded by a golden chain, further up his chest was a cross shaped wound which was indented on the opposite side of his chest from his heart. Three long, thick dark crimson lines spiraled down his right arm only to stop at his wrist and where his arm attaches to his shoulder and were marked off with a silver chain. “Hmm i wonder if this and the sword are connected?” He muttered as he ran his damp fingers over the two different tattooes on his body before a sharp knocking was heard from the door. “Hey we are here” The voice of Rainbow Dash stated roughly causing Lex to pull on his jacket and holding his top in his off hand before coming out of the bathroom to come face to face with the mare. “Why do you have your shirt in your hand?” She asked as she looked over the man’s exposed chest. “I thought it was not best to walk around town in a blood soaked top” He chuckled. “Yea probably a smart idea… That looks like it hurt” Rainbow Dash said tapping the scar on the man’s neck. “Yea probably did, but can’t remember” He said to her before he stepped off the train resulting in a triplet of earth ponies to faint. “Well that makes four” He said out loud before walking over to Twilight. “Oh don’t mind those drama queens” Rainbow Dash said. “So where to?” Lex asked. “Oh well you will be staying at my place, there is a spare bed in the basement you can use” Twilight suggested. “Okay that sounds like a pl…” Lex started before he was cut off by Rarity. “I don’t think that Lex would like to sleep on an old lumpy bed, and besides when did you last clean in your basement?” She asked. “Hey i can have Spike clean it up before he…” Twilight stared before being cut off by her friend. “I don’t think so, Lex seems to be a man of class so he can stay in my spare room” Rarity said as Lex raised an eyebrow at her statement. “What spare room? You mean the one full on mannequins that could give a Nightmare Moon nightmares?” Rainbow Dash said. “Yea.. no” Lex said but was ignored. “He can stay at my place, he can take the room that Gilda used to crash in when she visited” Rainbow Dash said before she looked to Lex concerned. “Can you walk on clouds?” She asked as he man shrugged. “Hey could stay at mine but i only have a single bed but he can… “Fluttershy started before she also was cut off. “Nah sugarcube, he can stay in ma barn, there is an old cot he can take in there” Applejack suggested. “Oh come on, how is that any better than Twilight’s basement?” Rainbow Dash said. “What about he staying at mine? We can have sleep overs and do fun things all night” Pinkie said bouncing up and down. “Pinkie… just no” Twilight said as the pink mare frowned. “Um Girls?” Fluttershy tried to cut in but failed. “Can’t you make some sort of charm to help him walk on clouds?” Rainbow Dash asked Twilight. “And how do ya expect ‘im to get up and down from there?” Applejack asked. “Girls?” Fluttershy attempted again. “Why can’t he stay with me!” Pinkie shouted. “Because i think the last thing on his mind is to sleep in the same bed as you” Twilight explained. “Oh” Pinkie replied slightly deflated. “GIRLS!!!” Fluttershy shouted gaining the group’s attention. “What is it Fluttershy?” Rainbow Dash asked slightly deaf from her friend shouting next to her. “Lex walked off like five minutes ago” She stated as the rest of the group simply blinked in confusion before looking around. “What? But we were suppose to look after him!” Twilight said concerned. “Rainbow… “ Applejack started before her rainbow haired friend nodded and took off. (Ponyville) “Well isn’t this quaint” Lex muttered as he walked around the small town after discarding his ruined top. “And it would appear i am getting plenty of attention” He added as just about every pony on the street or in shops were watching him with curiosity, concern or disgust. “Just ignore them, as they are not good with new things” A rhythmic voice stated from behind the man, causing him to turn to see a six foot four tall Zebra mare with a tall mohawk wearing a lightly tanned sleeveless vest that was connected at the front by strings, underneath was a similar coloured bra that held her e cup breasts. Looking lower, she was wearing a dark skirt with multiple pouches filled with herbs and dried alchemy ingredients. “I take it my appearance intrigues you?” She asked causing the man to blush slightly. “Sorry i did not mean to stare ma’am” He said with a short chuckle while rubbing the back of his neck, earning a giggle from the Zebra. “It is alright, if i was offended by stares then i would not have worn something so revealing” She said with a kind smile. “Fair enough, um my name is Lex” He said offering his hand, resulting in the mare to put down several large bags full of items that Lex failed to notice before shaking the man’s hand. “Zecora, it is a pleasure” She said smiling softly. “The pleasure is all mine, um do you need a hand getting those home?” He asked causing the mare to raise an eyebrow before smiling. “A hand would be delightful, thank you Lex” She said as she watched the man collect all the bags. “Okay where to?” He asked. “Follow me and i recommend sticking close.” She suggested before the pair began walking. > Chapter 4 - Trouble Brewing > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “King Blackwing, as much as i care about what happens to you and your people, i will not send out the Wonderbolts nor any of the Equestrian Navy to discover what happened a single Griffon criminal if it doesn’t affect the Griffon empire or Equestria.” Celestia said to a tall and muscular Arch Griffon in front of her in steel armor that covered all but his head and parts of his wings and hands. Celestia sighed she is your before rising from her throne. “I know that she is your daughter but if what you say is true, then she has traveled into the Archipelago, which i would like to remind you, is surrounded by maelstroms, giant reefs that rip ships apart and the most important fact… that is where the supposed monster, Leviathan nests” Celestia explained. “All the more reason to go and find my Gilda!” Blackwing shouted causing several of the Solar guards to grip their weapons tightly. “Blackwing listen to me, Almost nothing will return from there has returned, so there is no reason to be stupid and sacrifice dozens of our subjects to the ocean for a single soul… i know she is your daughter but would your wife want you to send your people to their doom?” Celestia asked causing the Arch Griffon to sigh and shake his head. “No… no she would not… but at the moment i am more concerned with those ponies that helped her escape.” Blackwing stated, gaining the mare’s interest. “Wait which ponies?” Celestia asked. “They were clad in black armour and sailed in on massive warships that tore through our own ships with ease in the night before vanishing quickly and only leaving wrecks of griffon ships the next morning” He said. “Warships? Were they black and have dragons as the figurehead?” Celestia questioned. “Yes they did, why have you encountered them?” Blackwing asked. “One, but it was heavily damaged and completely abandoned… there was nothing we could gain from the ship save for a flag that dated back to before either of our nation’s was founded… during Discord’s reign” Celestia explained. “What? Where is the ship now?” Blackwing asked. “Ash, i didn’t want to give them a reason to attack one of my towns.” Celestia stated. “What we could have laid a tr…” The Arch Griffon started before being cut off. “And what? If their ships ripped through your ironclad ships with ease… what could we possibly do if they attack such a clustered bay like where the ship crashed!” Celestia said with a raised voice before she sat down on her throne and placed a hand over her face. “I shall allow half a dozen ships to assist you, one hundred ponies and a detachment of some of Wonderbolt reserves” Celestia said. “Thank you princess” The Griffon said with a bow. “I expect my people to return to me” The alicorn stated with a glare which caused the griffon to gulp before he nodded and quickly left. Once he was gone, Celestia gave a deep sigh just as a maid arrived holding a tray with a teapot on it. “The Captain thought you could do with a cup of tea your highness” The pink mare said. “Thank you Sweetie” Celestia said smiling softly as she served herself before the maid left. “How can this day get anymore complicated?” She asked herself moments before a scroll appeared in her lap. “I just jinxed myself didn’t i?” She asked the guard to her right. “You do that alot… your highness” The Stallion said, gaining a soft giggle from the princess. “I guess i do Photon” She said before opening the scroll with her magic as she sipped her tea, only to spit the hot liquid out as she read the scroll. “You have got to be kidding me!” She groaned as she used her magic to hold her tea cup and bury her face in her hands and groan loudly. “Is everything alright Princess?” Photon asked. “No… it has been a day and they have somehow lost him” Celestia groaned. “Who has lost who auntie?” A voice asked causing Celestia to look up to see a seven foot tall pink Alicorn in a purple dress with a multi colored mane and tail. “Remember i told you about the Human that Twilight and her friends were looking after Cadance?” Celestia asked. “Yes i do… oh” Cadance said as it clicked. “Yes” Celestia said as she sighed loudly. “So may you please look after day court while i assist Twilight in finding the human?” Celestia asked her niece. “I can always go instead” Cadance offered. “Alright… just be careful around Lex.” Celestia warned the younger Alicorn, who nodded and started to leave until stopping. “Auntie, did Twilight and her friends explain what they were doing before Lex vanished?” Cadance asked curious as Celestia looked back over the note she had in front of her. “They were arguing about… where he would be staying? Really?” Celestia asked before groaning. “Auntie, is there a chance that Lex, the only human that we know exists, who has suffered quite badly, might not want to live with other ponies as of yet?” Cadance suggested as the Alabaster Alicorn looked at her niece. “Yes there may be a high chance of that, also Twilight and her friends have been known to be… what’s the word?” Celestia asked. “Obscure” Photon said gaining both Alicorn’s attention. “Sorry, i was just remembering what happened at the Gala” He said as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Yes you are quite right… then what would you suggest that should happen Photon?” Celestia asked as she leant on the arm of her Throne and gave her Solar guard her full attention and causing the stallion to gulp. “Well first i would not suggest bringing him here as if what you say is true, then the Nobles would tear him apart verbally or worse” Photon explained as both princesses nodded. “Then what would you suggest?” Cadance asked. “Well my sister lives in Ponyville and i do remember that there is a small nice, slightly run down, cottage on the edge of town, quite out of the way so ponies would not pass it regularly giving this Lex enough space to relax also maybe assist him in finding work so he could support himself?” Photon suggested. “Hmm alright, Cadance seeing as you want to do this one, please obtain this cottage and also Lex then send me a letter when you do” Celestia asked, gaining a nod of acknowledgement from her niece. (Everfree Forest) “So let me get this straight, they thought you… a zebra, ate children and had cursed them?” Lex asked as he sat within the hut belonging to Zecora as she took her time inspecting the man’s damaged leg. “Yes, it was quite embarrassing, especially when they destroyed my home” Zecora said as she looked at the grizzly wound on the man’s upper left leg. “Then out of the kindness of my heart, i cured them of the Poison Joke’s effects” She explained before standing back up. “You are too kind” He said with a chuckled “But i probably would have lost my shit with them” He said as Zecora smiled softly. “Yes but not everything can be fixed with force, anyway would you like me to fix the damage to your leg properly?” She asked as she sat down on her chair and sipped from her cup of tea. “Only if it didn’t inconvenience you Zecora” Lex said with a smile. “It’s not, you are my friend and also new to living here so see it as a welcome gift” She explained. “Okay, then sure” He said as the mare smiled and moved over to her shelf just as there was a knock at the front door. “Want me to get that?” Lex asked. “If you could please” Zecora asked as she started grinding ingredients together. “Okay” He said as he got up and walked over to the door and opened it to come face to face with a bright pink alicorn mare with a multi colored mane wearing a light purple dress that hugged her double e cup breasts and wide hips. “Ummm Hi” Lex said with a quick wave. “Hello, you must be Lex… hmm alright” She said as she inspected the man up and down before her horn glowed an aqua green, causing a scroll and pencil to appear out of mid air. “What are you doing?” Lex asked confused as he watched the mare write down something before rolling it up moments before it teleported away. “Oh just sending a letter to my auntie saying i have found you” She said to him. “Let me guess, your Aunt is Princess Celestia?” He asked, making the mare nod. “Yes, she asked me to find you after i looked at a small cottage for you to move into” She said. “Oh and my name is Mi Amore Cadenza but you may call me Cadance” She said as she offered her hand. “Um cool, nice to meet you, i am Lex” He said shaking her hand. “Oh i know” She replied with a smile before a flash of light occurred behind her before revealing both Princess Celestia and Luna, both of whom looking less than impressed. “What do you have to say about this?” Luna asked annoyed as Lex simply shrugged and walked back inside the hut before sitting down and sipping his cup of tea followed by the three princesses. “Lex why did you run away?” Celestia asked concerned, gaining a chuckle from the man as Zecora handed him a small cup with a vile tan liquid in it. “Princess, i am currently incapable of running with my screwed leg and anyway they were arguing with each other about who i was stay with… and in all honesty, all the options did not sound comfortable” Lex said before looking at the cup. “What is this?” He asked. “Something to help heal the limp in your leg” She explained gaining a nod from Lex moments before the door exploded open and in ran Twilight clutching a purple lizard, who she placed on the table and accidently coating Lex in boiling tea, “Zecora you have to help Spike!” Twilight said oblivious to the three alicorns in the room. “Mother fucker that burns!” Lex yells as he pulls his jacket off his body and dumps on the ground before walking over to the sink and splashing cold water on his now bright red chest. “Oh Lex there yo… oh my Celestia i am so sorry!” Twilight said as both her and Zecora rushed over to the man as Luna, Celestia and Cadance looked on with unflinching gaze at the now half naked man before them. “Well maybe next time don’t burst into someone’s home” Lex said with a brief glare, making Twilight recoil slightly. “I am Sorry Zecora for bursting in here but there is something wrong with Sp… where is he?” Twilight said turning around and noticing the purple lizard was missing, but she failed to notice that nearly everything of Zecora's was missing. “Great” Lex said walking to the door. “Okay so you start explaining why your pet just looted all of this kind zebra’s stuff?” He asked before looking to the three princesses, who were watching him. “And what about you three? Why didn’t you stop him?” He asked. “Stop who?” Luna asked causing Lex to facepalm and groan loudly. “Princess Luna, Princess Cadance, Princess Celestia! I am so sorry about this” Twilight said as Lex walked over to Zecora. “Hey i know this is probably a dumb question but… do you have anything that could be used as a tranquilizer?” Lex asked her. “No but there are some plants nearby that when combined will create something powerful enough to knock out Spike… no matter how big he gets” Zecora said as Lex nodded before cocking an eyebrow. “What do you mean by that last part?” He asked her as the princesses and Twilight continued to ignore them. “Don’t worry about the Dragon’s size, now here is the list of what you need and what they look like” Zecora said as she handed him a small pouch, knife, a bow and quiver full of arrows that Lex looked unsure about before she pushed him out the door. “Wait dragon?” Lex asked. “Don’t worry about it… and the bow is so you can protect yourself from Manticores” She said before closing the door. “Great… fucking fantastic” Lex said sarcastically before walking off only to stop. “Wait Manticore?!” > Chapter 5 - New Friends > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- “Bloody hell, that hurt” Lex groaned as he pulled several bright red thorns from his arm, ignoring the slight amount of blood that trickled down his limb. “Okay so what do i need to get now?” Lex asked himself before he pulled the list from his back pocket and unfolded it. “Okay, now just need something called a ‘Nightmare Blossom’ … Well that sounds foreboding” He muttered before glancing to the scripture next to the name of the plant. “They only grow within the Ruined Castle of the Two sisters? Okay that is even more foreboding” He muttered before he glanced at a tall tree that was nearby. “That should help me spot it”. The man fastened the sack to his belt before he began to carefully climb the tree, testing branches as he scaled it. After what seemed like an eternity, the man reached the peak of the tree, granting him a clear view of his surroundings for miles, he spotted the town was at least ten miles behind him with a massive purple and green dragon stomping around in it. To his side was the sight of a city that sat on the side of a mountain top. “Damn, i hate to be one of the guys who set the foundations for that” Lex muttered to himself before he glanced around more, only stopping when he saw his target, a decrepit castle a few miles in front of him. “Bingo” He said with a smirk before he began climbing down the tree, doing his best not to slip. Once down, Lex brushed himself off before he began his journey to the castle. (Castle of the Two sisters) As the man pushed the old, decaying doors of the ancient hall open, light filled the halls, revealing the rotting tapestries, shattered windows, rubble, moss coated statues, a rusted throne and a red carpet that was little more than mush. “Wow” Lex muttered as he slipped inside the ruins. The air was thick with the sweet and slightly sour smell, the soft noises of small animals scurrying away from the man filled the room. Shortly after the man entered the sound of rain landing on ruins soon filled the ruins causing Lex to look behind him to see a heavy sheet of rain coming down outside. “Hmm lucky I got inside when I did… though I didn't see any clouds appearing” Lex muttered before he returned his gaze to the ancient hall. He inspected the room until he noticed a strange shape shrouded in darkness in an off shooting corridor. He wouldn't have given it a second glance if not for the flowing cloud that resembled the night sky coming from the top and the middle of the of it and the set of slitted midnight blue eyes watching him. Very slowly, Lex drew an arrow from his quiver and rested it on his bow as the set of eyes narrowed at his actions. “We would not recommend that” a female voice said from around Lex, making the man raise his bow and draw the arrow back. “You can lower your weapon, we mean you no harm. In actuality we have been expecting me” The unknown explained, causing Lex to back step some more, only to stop when he heard a cracking noise from the ground beneath him. “Don't move… come towards me slowly” The voice said as the figure moved into the light to reveal a black Alicorn mare that was nearly as tall as Celestia. She wore dark blue armour that heavily cover her chest, hips, thighs, waist and head while leaving her limps relatively un armoured save for her elbows, feet and knees. The mare cautious moved closer to Lex as if approaching a startled animal. “Just come towards us and we shall explain” She said before offering out a hand while flashing a gentle smile, revealing her long canines. “Don't take offense but I don't trust you” Lex said as he moved back slightly, gaining a disapproving glare from the Alicorn. “If we wanted you dead, you would already be rotting” She explained in an unintentionally threatening tone of voice resulting in the man moving back more. Though the man's concerns about the mare were quickly extinguished as the floor caved in beneath his feet, sending dust into the air, blinding the Alicorn as he vanished beneath the floor. “Oh no!” the mare said as she lunged forward to grab him. She managed to grab collar of Lex’s top before he vanished into the dark void below. “Okay… I am inclined to believe you” Lex said as he held onto the mare's wrist as he looked down at the dark pit. “Though I would like to talk further when I am not dangling over certain death” He added while squeezing the Alicorn’s wrist tighter. “No it would not be good for you die after all my efforts to bring you here” The mare said, gaining a confused look from the man as she began to lift him up, only for the man's ankle to be caught by something. “The fuck is my leg ca…” Lex started as he looked down only to stop when he saw that web had coated his left leg from the knee down and lead into the darkness below. He was about to continue when the web pulled torte and began to pull down harshly. “Oh fuck something’s got me!” Lex said panicked as he released his grip on the Alicorn’s wrist and tried to cut the web with his knife but only achieved getting the blade tangled up. “What do you mean something has you?” The mare asked as she looked down, only to see the web. “By my moon, what is that?” She asked only to notice that Lex was undoing his pants. “Don't, I can help” She said before her horn began glowing a midnight blue. “Just try to stay still or else I may miss and blast off your leg” She said causing Lex’s eyes to shrink as he looked back to the dark Alicorn. “Okay, just quick… please” Lex asked moments before the mare fired off a beam that sliced through the web before she pulled him out of the hole to safety. “Thanks” He said as the mare released him. “You're very welcome, now we believe you have questions” The mare said as she used magic to remove the web from Lex’s leg. “Yea but I am worried in case the creature that did this may be coming” Lex said as he did up his pants while glancing at the hole. “That is a fair concern, come let's proceed to our chambers and discuss things properly.” The mare said as Lex got to his feet. “Right” Lex said as cautiously followed the mare out of the hall. “So how did I gain your attention?” Lex asked as he walked beside the mare while he looked around the decrepit ruin. “When we reach our chambers, we shall explain everything.” She said. (Half an hour later) “So what would you like to know first?” The mare asked as she sat on the edge of a old bed while she kept her gaze on the young man, who was currently leaning against the wall. “How about your name?” Lex asked, gaining a nervous look from the mare. “Our name? Um well we care called… we are called Nightmare Moon” She stated before looking away from the man. “You probably have heard many horrible things from Luna and those mares who wield the elements” She explained. “Ahhh actually this is the first time I have heard the name” Lex explained to Nightmare, causing the mare to frown. “What's wrong?” Lex asked as he walked over to her. “Nothing… just I thought the thought of being a bad story would be bad but I never expected to feel so horrible about being forgotten” She said with a sign while looking down at the moss coated cobblestone floor only to be caught off guard when she felt the smaller being wrap his arms around her and pull her to his chest. “Why are you hugging me?” Nightmare asked, confused by the foreign interaction. “No idea, just thought you could do with some cheering up” Lex said gaining a soft blush from the ancient Alicorn. “Well what have we here?” A cocky voice asked, causing both to look to the window as they separated. Standing at the destroyed window was the pink Alicorn mare. She was leaning against the window frame with smirk on her face, her form was soaked wet from the rain. “Oh come on, just pretend that I'm not here Nightmare” She said smiling. “Cadance wasn't it?” Lex asked, gaining a shrug from the mare moments before she stepped down from the windowsill and walked over to the pair. “Does it matter at this point what I call myself?” She asked in a creepy tone, causing Lex to step back. “Chrysalis!” Nightmare said loudly in an annoyed tone, causing the pink mare to stop and look to the dark Alicorn. “What? I am just having a little bit of fun” Cadance said before sighing loudly. “We need his help and putting him on edge won't help us” Nightmare said as she got to her feet and crossed her arms. “Wait, explain things… you said you have be guiding me here… how and fucking why?” Lex said, his frustration bleeding into his words. “Well long story short, I disguised myself as Luna when I entered your dreams and used a powerful spell to break through your amnesia, and when I saw and felt what you felt I knew that could accept me for what I have done and maybe even help me” Nightmare explained to the man. “Alright… but what do you need help with?” Lex asked. “Well, a few years back I was fused with Luna for a thousand years until I was ripped from her by the Elements of Harmony… you could not imagine the pain I suffered but I was alive luckily” Nightmare said before sighing. “Though when the sun rose after I regained consciousness, I discovered that my physical form can not survive in sunlight, forcing me to hide in my ethereal form until the sun sets… This curse is not natural and… and I just want to be cured.” She said as tears began to form in the corners of her eyes. “Sure, what can I do to help?” Lex asked. “Hmm that was easier then I though it would be” Chrysalis said moments before her horn lit up with green fire, causing green flames to surround her body before dissipatting to reveal a tall mare coated in dark green chitin. She was taller than Nightmare and curvier with dozens of holes across her body, she had a thick sludge like aqua mane and tail that clung to her form and a strange set antennae that resembled a crown. The clothes she was wearing were too small for the taller, curvier green mare, causing it to rip in certain places “So what do you think?” Chrysalis asked with a sultry smile causing the man to blush and turn his gaze to Nightmare, who was glaring at the shape shifter. “So what do I need to do?” Lex said doing his best not to gawk at the now half naked mare. “Well while Chrysalis runs interference and keeps Celestia distracted, You shall assist me in retreiving an artifact know as the Alicorn Amulet… With that I shall be able to regain my form and be free of this curse and once I have it, I will be able to teleport the three of us out with ease while the Elements and Royal guard are distracted with A few hundred of Chrysalis’ drones.” Nightmare explained “Alright… the way you have explained this leads me to believe that you guys are suppose to be the bad guys” Lex said with a raised eyebrow. “We were not giving a bucking choice in the matter!” Chrysalis roared in anger. “My entire species has been hounded by those ponies since we first encountered each other!” “Chrysalis please, let me explain” Nightmare asked the angered mare, causing her to sigh and nod before she backed off. “Look, both the Changeling species and myself have been faught against Celestia and Luna and we lost… The Changelings being branded as monsters and attacked on sight while I habe been dubbed an devourer of foals” Nightmare explained with a frown. “Yes I may have wanted to cause an everlasting night but I never tried to eat anypony or cause severe harm to anypony… save for Celestia but I digress, We just want just want to have the chance to right the wrongs that have been done against us… so please, could you help us?” Nightmare asked as she reached out and took Lex’s hand. “Sure, as long as we don't kill anyone” Lex asked, gaining a nod from the mares.