> The Alchemist From The North
>  by Zatoichi Vokunkiin
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue: From The Mountain Tops, To The Lands Below
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The snow fell as it always did atop the highest mountain in Northern Equestria. Far away from even where the pegasi could never reach. Upon the mountaintop, was a stronghold surrounded by both the inner part of the mountain, and a reinforced stone wall. Within this place were many homes that belonged to a forgotten race of ponies that have long since remained in hiding ever since the crystal ponies vanished off the face of the earth when they were taken over by King Sombra. It was only them, and the two ruling princesses of Equestria that had knowledge of these ponies. Though, it was limited to them.

These ponies were large in stature. The males themselves at full adulthood grew even past the size of Celestia herself. And she stood at eight feet tall. No, the males themselves grew the most to twelve feet. Had lots of extra fluff on their body, especially on their chests and with a body as thick as a tree. With the females only being a few feet shorter and more curvy and soft, yet build for breeding, the mountain pony race was one not to be taken lightly. While usually gentle and kind to their own, they have been known to watch outsiders carefully who entered their town. If any came at all anyway.

The mountain ponies came in two varieties. Wingless and dual winged. Meaning that instead of one pair of wings, mountain ponies had two set. This making them proficient flyers for ponies their size. And the super thick fur to keep them naturally warm because of the harsh climate. Every male in the village and some females who chose the path were warriors. The exception was either the children or the elderly who had grown too old to fight. Apart from being warriors, they also had jobs as miners, blacksmiths, shop owners and alchemists.This story follows one of those very ponies. An alchemist and a skilled warrior who has grown up to be a fine stallion. His name is Mystogan.Not the most ponies would call their children, but mountain ponies don’t go with names like the common races do.

Mystogan walks along the path with his trusty sword that his father had crafted just for him when he turned sixteen. The blade has been with him for years and has never once dulled or chipped due to how much care he has put into the blade. With his dual set of wings resting under his cloak, and a void satchel that was given to him by his mother for his alchemy profession resting at his side, the stallion was always running about the town or leaving to go and find what herbs he could. Which were in easy to find if one had the right eyes and nose. Even in the snow. The path lead through the city until he finally got to his home that he shared with his parents. They firmly believed that family should stay close together as long as possible. Mostly because they were running out of room to build homes on the mountain tops. He finally made his way to the door and walked inside to see his mother and father gaze at him with looks of worry and anticipation. He blinks a few times and closes the door behind him,making his way to the table where they sat.

“Mom...Dad? Is everything alright..?”

He asked in a Nordic accent. That is the way that mountain ponies spoke after all.

“Come sit with us, son. Your mother and I need to speak to you about something serious.”

Said his father as he motioned him over to the table. Was he in trouble? Did they find out he was the one who used his handmade magic to nearly collapse the mine with explosions? He was ready for it though. But what he wasn’t ready for was to hear what his parents ready had to tell him and that it would certainly shock him.

“The village elders have decided it was the time our kind got out in the world once more. And they have decided to choose you to be the one to do so. As one of our few alchemists and gifted warriors, the vote was unanimous. Tomorrow morning, you are to depart.”

Mystogan’s mind exploded as this news was dropped on him. Did they choose him of all the stallions in the village to do this? His reaction certainly wasn’t what his parents expected. Instead of a worried look of his own, a smile form on his muzzle as his eyes sparkled with excitement. He had always wanted to go explore the world beyond the mountains. He got tired of the knowledge that laid in the books of the local library and wanted to get out and learn for himself.

“But, that’s wonderful news! I finally get to go out and expand my knowledge of alchemy and learn more about the other races! You both know I have hoped for a day like this since I was younger. Why are you so worried?”

“Well sweetie...it’s just..we don’t know how the world has changed. And as your parents, we are just worried about your safety. You are our only son after all. And to think that you will be out there on your own so far away…”

Said his mother who looked up at him with tears nearly getting ready to flow from her eyes. Mystogan smiled to his mother and walked over to her, wrapping his arms around her in a loving manner.

“Come on mom. You should know that I can handle myself. Besides, it’s not like I couldn’t come back home later in the middle of my journey. I would just be away for maybe five months at the most. No big deal.”

Mystogan was taking this better than they both thought. But his mother, as most mothers do, had a hard time believing that her child was about to leave out in the world that she had no idea what was like anymore. But so see such enthusiasm on her son’s face. She couldn’t pressure him into declining the elders. She has known it to be a wish of his to one day go outside the boundaries of the mountains. And she wasn’t going to take that chance away from him.

“Come on, son. How about one more cup of ale before the big day tomorrow huh?”

“Big day?”

“Yeah, everypony is going to see you off when you go. So be sure you get plenty of rest tonight. Your mother and i have already prepared you a few things that are up in your room. And she will also be giving you quite a few bottles of your favorite soup. Which you should have no issue fitting into that special satchel of yours.”

For the rest of the night, Mystogan and his family spent it drinking ale and chatting with each other for the last time for a while. Remembering how just years ago, he was just a young colt who got into trouble as often as any other would. And that now, he has turned into a fine stallion, capable of handling himself. His parents were going to miss him, just as he was going to miss them.

--That Very Next Morning--

Mystogan stood in front of one of the long thick planks of wood that the winged mountain ponies dived off of when they were to head out for gathering resources and such. He turned behind to see the whole town eyeing him in his new  armor his father had smithed together for him. It was platted in the vital places while not being too restricting so he could move properly. And it was nice and intimidating should anypony get any funny ideas. It even had a spot on the hood where his ears could slide into. Before he makes his departure, he walks up to his parent and hugs them one last time.

Goodbye mother, father. I will miss you both very much. But I will return home. I promise.”

“We know you will Mystogan. We both pray for your safe return.”

“Please be safe my sweet boy. I will miss having you come home each day,”

Just as he was about to make his way back to the plank, the head elder made his way through the crowd holding up a rather hefty sack in his hand. He smiles up at Mystogan and holds it out to him.

“Here you go young one. A little parting gift from the elders. You will be needing it where you are going.”

Mystogan blinks and opens up the bag, revealing inside it quite an abundance of bits. His looks up to the elder and smiles, bowing his head gratefully before sliding the bag into his void satchel where he kept many things, but mostly potions and handmade magic in a bottle and a few other things that would help him should he get in a jam. As he walked to the plank and stood there, he turned his head once more and smiled.

"I'll be back with plenty of new research material and new information about the lands below. You can count on me!"

He shouted before turning and running down to plank and giving a mighty leap as he spreads his wings and dives down until he lays himself out properly in the air and begins to take flight. He soon starts soaring through the air with a big smile on his face as he had already made it to the boundaries of the mountains. He drifted left and right with a big smile on his face, even doing a few barrel rolls in the process as his cloak flowed behind. He has never felt so free and unbound in all his life. After about a good twenty minutes, he discovered some railing that appeared to be train tracks. So he flew over them to follow the way they lead. One thing Mystogan noticed is that the air was lighter down here in the low lands.it was ten times easier to fly in!

“This is so amazing! To think I did not come down here sooner!”

He exclaimed to himself. Soon he’d come upon the grasslands and the outskirts of Ponyville. After a long flight he decided walking was the best idea for now. And making a stop in that town to check things out would be a good first step. Little did the mountain pony know, that things were going to get very exciting once he stepped his hooves into that town. VERY exciting.
> Act 1: That's One Big Pony...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was just a little past noon when Mystogan finally made it to the entrance of Ponyville. After picking a few herbs and plants up along the way of course. More research material for potentially new alchemy! He pulls off his hood, that long straight mane falling back to the sides of his head which seem to stay naturally parted in the middle. Probably because he tied it back so often it just trained itself to do that. He stood there for moment. He had to admit, he was a bit nervous. After all, it was a new town. That meant new faces as well. He takes in a deep breath and lets it back out before nodding to himself. He puts his hood back up on second thought.

“Maybe...I should not show my face just yet. But this town looks like a good place to start gathering information for the great library back home. But first…”

His stomach starts rumbling as he was hungry..again. He had already finished off the soup his mother had given him on his way here. And he is a big stallion and loved to eat. So starting off in this town was a good idea. He could find a temporary place to stay, get some food and record the things he needed to in the many blank books he kept in his void satchel. He nods to himself and starts to make his way into the town. Little did he know that his appearance was going to cause quite a commotion once one pony laid eyes on him.

The slate gray mountain size of a stallion took his first step into Ponyville. His sky blue eyes shifting as the first few ponies come into view once several buildings were out of his way. With every step of the way, his armor clanked lightly and his cloak kept most of everything hidden since it draped over his front and there wasn’t much of a breeze at the moment. It was at that moment one of the citizens saw Mystogan coming into the town and dropped all her bags in complete shock. Her eyes widened with both awe and a bit of fear as she saw the giant making his way to her. He had seen she dropped her things and was only coming over to help her pick them up. Once he gets over to her, her heart was pounding heavily as she back into the building she was walking by on her way home. Mystogan smiled warmly under his hood as he began to pick up the food and other items and places them back in the bags. She watches his every move, the mare still on edge by the sight of this super-sized stallion. His armor wasn’t really helping the situation either thanks to it’s design. Once he finishes getting everything in the bags., He picks them up and holds them out back to the mare who was shaking like a leaf in the wind.

“Here you are, ma’am. Sorry if I startled you.”

The mare suddenly screamed as she saw him hold out her bags to her, thinking he was going to grab her or hurt her. The bags fall back to the ground as he staggers back in surprise. He places his hands to his ears to cover them while closing one eye in annoyance. He watches her grab her things and run off as fast as she could while screaming.

“HEEEEELP! HE’S GOING TO EAT ME!!!”

Mystogan actually felt a little offended by what she screamed out as she ran away from him. He responds to her.

“I will not! How dare you think I eat other ponies!”

He shouted, which caught the attention of a few more ponies who gazed at the armored giant. They suddenly screamed. Others came out to see what the commotion was, they screamed too. They all began to run away and retreat into their homes or any building that would let them in. Mystogan blinked a few times and sighed to himself, only making his way further into the town.

Once he got to the town square, he looked around to find that there was nopony out and about. News of his arrival had already spread it seemed. He thought he was alone at this point until he heard hoofsteps approaching him from behind at a fast pace. He turns to see a group of six ponies staring him down...or rather up with glares. Mystogan’s eyes fell on the one up front first. She’s a lavender colored unicorn with dark purple eyes, she wore a short black skirt and a clean buttoned-up white shirt that hugged her body nicely. She didn’t look too athletic though. More like a pony who spent her time hitting the books rather than the gym.

The one next to her was a rather curvy but beautiful white-coated unicorn with a purple mane and tail that looked like it was kept nearly twenty-four seven. Her sapphire blue eyes were absolutely marvelous to stare at and her fashion sense was extremely posh. She wore a pure white dress that flowed all the way down just above her knees, though the top hugged her figure quite nicely. Which revealed the softness of her form as well. Clearly, she was a pony of first-class living.

His gaze then shifted to a cyan blue pegasus with a rainbow colored mane and tail. He had certainly never seen anything like that where he was from. He was even more impressed with how athletic she looked. Noticing a fair bit of muscle in both her legs and arms. But also still remaining soft in all the right spots as well. Her type of clothing seemed to be more tomboyish than the others. A black denim jacket with a white tub top and knee length denim shorts that hugged her hips and legs.

The next one he’d lay eyes on, however, definitely had more muscle than the previous mare. Her coat was orange and her mane and tail were a golden yellow. She had adorable freckles on her cheeks, even though she was glaring at him, he thought she was still pretty cute.Her emerald eyes were very lovely as well. And the brown stetson that rested upon her head, the red flannel shirt, and the denim short she wore definitely indicated she was a hard-working pony who wasn’t afraid to get rough and dirty.

The next one he turned his eyes to was a rather adorable looking yellow pegasus who tried to glare at him, but was more intimidated by his size than anything. She was just as soft looking as the white unicorn from earlier. But her clothing style seemed more...simple. A green sweater and a pair of light blue denim shorts. It suited her though. Her cyan eyes and pink mane and tail definitely added to her cuteness.

And finally, his eyes dropped down to a rather pleasantly plump and energetic pink mare. Judging by the smell he was getting from her, she got those curves from her consumption of sweets. And they definitely treated her well. Her clothing was very colorful and cheery. She wore a light blue and yellow t-shirt and a skirt with the same exact colors which was also quite frilly. She seemed like the kind of mare who liked to throw parties and just have fun all around.

Little did Mystogan know that all his assumptions and studying of these six were right on the nose. His train of thought was broken once he heard the lavender mare speak to him in a rather demanding tone.

“Who are you and what are you doing here?”

“Remove the hood, buddy!”

Demanded the cyan colored mare. Resisting the urge to do it herself in the process. Mystogan lifted his hands up in defense and chuckled nervously.

“Look, I am not here to cause trouble. And I definitely don’t want to eat other ponies! That would be horrible!”

“Other ponies…?”

Asked the shy one, peeking out from behind her wall of friends with a more curious gaze rather than frightened. Mystogan nodded and decided it would be the best time to lower his hood. Perhaps it would clear things up a bit more. Once he reveals that he was indeed a pony, they all drop their jaw in awe as they look upon him. How in all of Equestria could a pony get THIS big?

“Sweet ever-lovin'....that is one big pony…”

Said Applejack as she looked at his form with both shock and...a bit of admiration.

“He..he is even bigger than the princess! How is this even possible?!”

Asked the purple one as she fights the urge to approach him directly, her thirst for knowledge on this pony and where he came from now coursing through her mind and body. The cyan one flew up to him with no problem, however. Even getting right in his face as her glare locked onto his gaze. She noticed that his pupils were slit, rather than the normal roundness. And also the extra fluff that existed on his face around his jawline, cheeks, and his ears.

“What...kind of pony are you? You are like twice the size of Applejack’s brother. And possibly more..”

She asked as she flew around to look at him from the back. She noticed the light indention of not one but...two pairs of wings?! She doesn’t waste any time in lifting his cloak to the side and indeed seeing two pairs of black wings folded against his back and lower back. And there were much bigger than her own and more alicorn-like than pegasus-like. Mystogan pulled away from the peeking mare and crossed his arms with an arched brow.

“You could have asked, you know. As for what kind of pony I am, I am a mountain pony. And I come from the highest summit in Northern Equestria. And my stronghold has chosen me as their information gatherer. After all, it has been a thousand years since my kind has even ever left the mountain. Not since the Crystal Kingdom disappeared when the two sisters sealed King Sombra.”

The purple mare looked up at him with wide eyes at this information he just spoke of. She knew NOTHING about this! Not only did she just learn of a forgotten pony race. But that there is an empire that just...disappeared and a tyrant called King Sombra who the royal sisters defeated?! What has her mentor been hiding from her all this time?! And as if on cue, Mystogan heard the familiar sound of armor clanking and getting closer. He turns around swiftly to see a platoon of guards with weapons drawn heading his way and a tall, white alicorn with a multi-colored spectrum mane that seemed to flow on its own without the help of the wind. Mystogan wasn’t sure if he should draw his blade or not. His hand twitching as it rested on the hilt as they get closer. Though, when Celestia gets closer and takes a look at the potential threat. Her eyes widen in shock and her heart skips a few beats. Is she seeing what she thinks she is seeing?

“Guards, halt! Do not engage! He is not a threat!”

Mystogan knew exactly who this mare was. She was the elder ruler of the two royal sisters. Princess Celestia. He watched her step out from behind her line of guards. She approached him cautiously at first. Seeing he had his hand on the hilt of something under his cloak. She took it as a sign of self-defense rather than hostility, giving the stallion the benefit of the doubt.

“It’s alright. I won’t order them to hurt you. Ease your nerves, young stallion.”

Mystogan hesitated but nodded as he released the hilt of his sword and stood up straight. Celestia looked up at Mystogan, then down, then up again. It has been many, many years since she has laid eyes upon one of his kind. And to see one out in the world…

“Tell me young stallion. Do you come from Northern Equestria from the highest peak? Have your kind finally decided to come out of hiding ever since what happened all those years ago?”

“Well, not all of my kind. I am simply the first they decided to send off to gather information so that we may update our great library. And I am also out here for selfish reasons as well. I did not want to spend my whole life on a mountaintop without knowing what’s beyond. And before you ask princess. No, we are not looking to cause any hostility. We have always been a peaceful race except to those who cause us trouble.”

“Yes, I remember the ways of your kind. That is why I stopped my guards before they could bring harm to you. That last thing I need from your kind is an invasion of ponies with your size and strength. I welcome you to Ponyville, sir. And what might your name be?”

“I am called Mystogan. It is a pleasure to actually meet the princess of the sun. I take it that your younger sister has returned as well. Judging by the way the moon looks now.”

“You are correct. Things have been wonderful ever since my little sister returned and the six mares behind you had removed Nightmare moon from her.”

“Impressive...good to hear that things are going your way here, princess. It seems that one of your local subjects thought I was here to feast on pony flesh...I was quite hurt by that remark.”

He said jokingly. Celestia laughed lightly and shook her head.

“Well, I imagine with that hood on, you look rather...beastly. But now that things have cleared up, I am sure that there will be no more misunderstandings. The mares behind you would be happy to help you around here should you need to know anything of this little town. But first, I need you to come with me to Canterlot. We have things we need to discuss regarding your presence here and the fact that your race has decided to come out into the world once more. If you would follow me,please.”

Mystogan nodded and followed Celestia as her and her guards took to the air. Opening his dual set of wings once more which Rainbow Dash stared at in awe. Things were about to get interesting in Ponyville to be sure. Even more so for the purple unicorn who had a billion questions for both Mystogan and her mentor.
> Act 2: Now That Your Kind Has Returned...
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mystogan landed beside Celestia at the main entrance of the castle. Celestia was quick to order one of the guards to call for her sister. The matter of a mountain pony making their way from the mountains in the north was something that wasn’t to be taken lightly. Mystogan was wondering why she was so hasty in getting him away from other ponies other than herself and her younger sister. Is his race really that much of a secret to most others? He’d soon find out as soon as Celestia and her sister speak with him in private. They finally make their way to one of the more secluded rooms within the castle. A place where things can be discussed without interruption from the outside. Once both of them had made it inside, all that was to do now was to wait for Luna.

Mystogan gazed around the room as he entered behind Celestia, heaving to duck a little to make his way inside. The room appeared to be a rather cozy study. A fireplace was lit, keeping to room comfortably warm and large pillows laid about the room. This was a very nice little room indeed. Mystogan made his way over to the books and started examining the titles. Celestia watched Mystogan with curiosity. She cannot believe that she was looking upon a mountain pony after so so many years. He wasn’t a royal dignitary from anywhere but, the mountain pony race was certainly not onet to take lightly. It was said long ago, that if things got to beyond the point of nearing the end of all hope for a major city or even a small town, mountain ponies were called in to solve the issue and quickly. But ever since Luna’s banishment, there has been no need for warriors of that caliber. She also noticed that he didn’t have much on him either. How did he get here with so little? Just his armor, sword and satchel. She noticed that he reached into that satchel and pulled out a rather large book with ease. He took out a will as well and began writing a few things down in it with a concentrated gaze. He had already written a few thing in it before it seemed. He was supposed to be gathering information and such after all.

“My sister shall be joining us shortly Mystogan. Would you please come sit with me while we wait?”

She asked as she sat on one of the pillows next to the fire. Mystogan finished writing down what he needed to write and slid the book back into his void satchel with a nod. He makes his way to the pillow across from the fireplace after setting his sword down next to him. Celestia gazed at the sheath the blade sat in. From what she could tell by the hilt, it was amazing craftsmanship and to an averagely sized pony, it was more like a greatsword rather than a simple one-handed sword. The door opened up after a few more minute as a rather lithe dark blue alicorn made her way inside, her teal eyes falling immediately upon Mystogan. Her eyes widen and her jaw drops a bit.

“So it is true after all. A mountain pony, a strong and fierce stallion at that walks among us once more. I certainly never thought i’d see the day when your kind would come down from the mountains of Northern Equestria.”

“Pardon me, princess. But you speak of my kind as if we are revered warriors of old times. We are simply ponies who live up in the mountains because it is where we belong. Our size and appearance are simply the way we have evolved to live in such harsh climates comfortably.”

Mystogan said to Luna as he puts his hands up in front of him, trying to play down the words she said a bit. Celestia giggled lightly as Luna came to sit down from across her sister. She then turns her gaze back to Mystogan.

“Humble as well. If I remember correctly, that is one of the well-known traits of a mountain pony to those who still remember them. Now then, since my sister and I are both here with you, it is time we discussed things with you. So I will ask this first. Are you and your race planning on any hostile acts once you get what you need from your travels?”

Mystogan shook his head lightly. He offers up a genuine smile as his spoke.

“War or conflict s not our purpose, princess. I am simply far from home because I was given a mission to gather current information to take back home. And from what I have gathered thus far, the world below seems to have changed greatly in the last years. But, I am also her one a rather...selfish whim I suppose. I did not want to stay in the mountains all my life. In fact, I am really starting to like it down here a lot. I am curious though. When did other ponies get so small..?”

“We didn’t get smaller, Mystogan. Your kind got bigger actually. Believe it or not, your kind used to be shorter than I. But it seems that over the years, you all grew in size and stature. It is quite amazing to see how the forgotten mountain ponies have come along. In fact, you look rather familiar somehow. Do...you happen to know of the master alchemist Guren?”

“You mean my great, great, great grandfather? Well yes. It is one of the reasons I chose to follow the same path as he did. Alchemy is my specialty.”

“Ahaaa, so you do have the same eyes as he did. And if you inherited his personality...something tells me you will be a very different person should battle or drink be involved. He was...quite a character when there was a fight or drinking contest to be had. He’d always get so fired up and excited when things like that happened. Other than that, he was about as calm as you are this very moment. It’s rather refreshing to see one of my oldest friends through you, Mystogan.”

Mystogan blinked a few times in surprise. One of her oldest friends? Did she know Guren that well enough? This actually made him quite happy. And even more determined to stay on the path to becoming a full master alchemist as well. Celestia went on to her next question after a moment.

“Will you also be establishing a home within Ponyville as well to return to so you may rest from your multiple journeys across the land? Since this is the center of all Equestria.”

Mystogan rubbed his chin in thought. His journey would indeed be taking him all over Equestria. And a place to come back to and rest would be nice, especially if he didn’t have to pay bits each time. Not to mention he did pack ALL of his belongings in his void satchel. He thought about it for a moment as he lowered his head, then looked back up at her.

“Would it be an issue if I did wish to make a residence in the land below Canterlot? Or do you think it would bring a bit of trouble? If it would be fine, then yes, I would love to build a home here. I actually like it down here in the greenlands more than the mountains. But I would return ever so often to visit my family of course.”

Celestia nodded and lifted a piece of parchment and a quill up with her magic. She wrote down something on it, rolled it up and placed her seal on it then floated it over to him. He reaches forward and takes the parchment before looking towards her again then slips it behind his cloak.

“Present this to Mayor Mare. And you may begin the construction of your home. She will get ponies to build it for you to your own specifications.”

“Well, I can’t let them do it all by themselves. I gotta get in there and help them after all. With my strength, we should get my home all done tomorrow evening. Until then I suppose I will stay at an inn for the evening.”

“Shall I also arrange for furniture to be delivered to your home as well?”

“I’d really appreciate that. But I do not require much Just...make sure they are my size, please. I have all my alchemy equipment and my books and their shelves along with my bed in this satchel right here though.”

Both Celestia and Luna look at Mystogan like he was absolutely insane. He had WHAT in there?! That was physically impossible!

“I...am afraid I have a hard time believing you could fit all those things into that small little satchel...I don’t mean to be rude when I am saying that but…”

Mystogan chuckled lightly and opened up his satchel. He reaches in a nearly full arm in depth and searches for something. The fact that he could fit his whole arm in there already stunned the both of them. Their eyes becoming as wide as dinner plates only made Mystogan grin wider. He finally finds what he was looking for and pulls it out half way which was a large wooden bookshelf that had all his book still neatly shelved, even in alphabetical order!

“I told you so.”

“That..that is amazing! Even unicorns haven’t figured out that kind of magic! How is it that mountain ponies know this?!”

Asked Luna as she got on her hands and knees, crawling towards Mystogan to get a better look at his void satchel. He holds it out to her to let her examine it. Even letting her hold it as well. He goes on to explain it to both of them.

“Well, as you both know. The world is full of magic. We mountain ponies have learned how to incorporate alchemy into creating handmade magic. The process is a bit long to explain. But in short: Certain herbs and precious stones can create magical energy that can be stronger than a unicorn casting a spell from their horn. And when these items are brought together, they create ‘handmade magic’. Something my kind has had for a very very long time now. We took the idea originally from using structural matrixes or what you refer to as ‘spellcasting circles’.”

“That is absolutely brilliant, Mystogan. Truly innovative and clever use of spell circles. Mountain ponies certainly are both smart and strong. Then again, you have all lived isolated from most of the world. I imagine you had to find ways how to do things we could do here. And the way your kind adapt and find ways to better yourselves...it’s rather chilling but at the same time, wonderful.”

Mystogan rubbed the back of his head with a bit of embarrassment, a light blush forming across his muzzle as he averts his eyes a bit.

“Well...I mean we are just mountain ponies. It’s not like we are all powerful ponies who can bend the will of the world to how we wish. That would be rather silly don’t you think? We do have our flaws after all. We do tend to get carried away and hot-headed in battles, we also...eat quite a bit. Given the chance, I would empty an entire pantry of a pony’s home or even an entire restaurant. We have huge appetites after all. And we also...well…”

He lowers his head with a heavy blush. He starts fidgeting with his hands as he has a hard time saying this to two mares, let alone the princesses. However, Celestia knew exactly where he was heading with this just by his body language and the heat starting to radiate off his body. Her memory coming back to this one specific detail about both male and female mountain ponies.

“I do believe I know what you are trying to say, Mystogan. I am aware that your kind are built for breeding and it lies within your genetic structure more so than a regular pony. Trust me, Guren made me fully aware of that...and..”

She blushes herself, the memory of that handsome strong mountain pony claiming her body every time they would get together every time engraved deep within her mind. And she knew she enjoyed every minute of it back then. Luna could only narrow her eyes and grin wickedly as she watched her elder sister squirm on her pillow, becoming all hot and bothered.

“Before I became Nightmare Moon and I was banished, Guren and my elder sister were on rather...intimate terms. Not so much as romance, but they did get rather physical with one another when he’d visit her or vice versa.”

Mystogan cleared his throat and suddenly stood up to his hooves. He grabs his sword and places it back onto his left hip and attempts to make haste in leaving the room now. He has certainly heard enough of that story.

“I..I should get going, princesses. I shouldn’t take up any more of your time. And I also should get started on creating my new home as well. It was a...pleasure to meet you both.”

With that, he quickly turns and makes his way out of the room and closes the door quickly, he fast hoofsteps could be heard echoing down the hall. Celestia still remembering about those wonderful nights and Luna resisting going into a giggle fit.

--A Day Later--

Mystogan now stood before a well fortified home that was made with cement blocks and solid stone roofing. And a wooden door reinforced with metal lead inside with a few rooms above the ground and a basement that leads below. The perfect place to experiment with his alchemy. He turns back to look at all the construction ponies who helped him with his new home. He bows his head lightly in thanks.

“Thank you all. I imagine that this was all rather hard for you. But I appreciate it.”

“Are you kidding? We hardly did any lifting!”

They all laughed after he said that, but they appreciated his thanks nonetheless. But seriously, he did most of the heavy lifting. They all just made sure the whole building was structurally sound and everything was in its proper place. Once everyone had gone off to either their next job or home, Mystogan went inside and began unpacking everything out of his void satchel. This took him roughly an hour to do and after he finished setting up his lab in the basement, he wipes the sweat from his forehead and places his hands on his hips with a firm nod

”Home sweet home. I’ll stay here for a few days and then resume my journey. I should still get myself familiar with the ponies around here before I depart.”

His home sat on the outskirts of Ponyville closer to the forest and a lake so he’d have all the needs of an alchemist. Little did he know, that a certain zebra would learn about this new face and his skills. And things between them would certainly be interesting.
> Act 3: The Alchemist Meets The Herbalist
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was early in the evening inside the Everfree forest. The sun was only slightly still visible during to twilight hours of the day as a cloaked figure wandered through the forest with a lantern in one hand and a fighting staff in the other. The wind blew through the trees and the sound of the nocturnal creatures echoed through the now darkening forest. The figure’s gaze shifted around, fully alert should any creatures decide on attacking them. This pony...or rather this zebra was out looking for a special kind of flower that only bloomed at night. This flower was known as the ‘moon drip’. A special flower used in healing tonics that mostly involved healing sicknesses like the flu and severe colds. And can only be found on nights of the full moon.

“Hopefully I can find this precious flower soon, or I may have to wait until the next full moon.”

She said as she continued her way to finding the area she remembered this flower grew. It was deep within the forest. And could only be found in a place near a small body of water that has been called the ‘Moon Pool’. It got its name from the way it glows in the moonlight that shines directly upon it through the opening of the trees and glimmers with a beautiful light gray light just as the moon does. She continues her way through the forest as the lantern provides her with an abundant source of light. Little did she know that she had a rather large predator stalking her from the shadows. And that once she made it to where she was going, it would decide to make its move.

Eventually, the zebra made it to the moon pool which was as beautiful as ever to see. She lowers her hood, revealing a rather beautiful zebra mare with lovely sky blue eyes. She wore a golden necklace and had golden earrings in both of her ears. And the African accent she spoke in only made her more alluring with her voice. She walks over to the side of the water and begins to pick the flowers, a smile forming on her face as she did so.

“Aaah, these are the flowers that I need. Now I must pick them with great speed. Being out here this late is less than wise, but at least I was able to find my prize.”

She said with a light giggle to herself as she finished gathering what she needed. As she finished up and closed her bag, there was a sudden low growl coming from the bushes behind her. The zebra took a defensive stance with her staff right away as her eyes shifted around. Though she was within the moon’s light, whatever was out there was shrouded in shadow and she did not like being out in the open where the predator could see her. She decides to make a run for it, taking her lantern and running through the forest as fast as her legs could take her. She was a fairly fit zebra, those soft and curvy, she had plenty of muscle under all that. As she has been seen meditating upside down on a stick staying perfectly still. The predator in question followed closely behind, letting out a roar as it charged toward her. She was able to dive out of the way just in time before it could grab her with its sharp fangs. Once she got a good look at the creature she suddenly started fearing for her life.

“A manticore! If its stinger hits me, I am done for!”

And of all nights to forget her anti-venom as well. The situation was bad for her as well, her lantern was burning out. And without any light, she was certainly going to end up as the creature’s next meal. She wasn’t going to go down without a fight, however. All she could do was stand her ground and hope that she could somehow win this battle with her life. The manticore circled around the zebra, eyeing her like a piece of fresh meat. With one swift movement, the creature leaps into the air towards her.

 Somepony,please help me! 

She screamed in her mind. Just as the creature was mere feet away from her, a sudden loud and heavy rush of hoofsteps echoes through the forest.

 "HRRRRAAAAGH!" 

Shouted the voice of the giant-sized male as his shoulder connected with the still midair beast. He swung his arm as he pushed the manticore back a good twenty feet, sending it flipping and tumbling through several trees as the fell from the impact. The zebra looked up at the giant figure with wide eyes. Somepony actually came! She was overjoyed to see her savior before her. And the strength he possessed to fling a creature that size at the distance he did. She was truly amazed

“Ah yes, that is the creature I was hunting for. Looks like we both get what I want this night huh?”

Before she could speak, the manticore charges at Mystogan with full intent to kill. Mystogan, however, stood ready for a good fight. He drew his sword and immediately went for the prize he was seeking. He began wrestling with the beast,climbing on top of it and rolling around with it until he finally got its tail in his hand. He lets out a mighty roar of his own and begins to slam the creature over his head and on the ground multiple times with both hands. Eventually, he tired the manticore out for a few minutes. He took his blade to the beast’s tail and severed it with one quick swipe of his sword. The now severed limb flailing and convulsing about. He wasted no time in placing to tail into his satchel and looked to the now bleeding out Manticore. Before pulling out his hand from his satchel, he grabs a vial containing a...blue fire? He breaks the vial in his hand and opens it to reveal a blue flame now resting in his palm. He lets out an almost draconic like roar as the fire flew forward and started to burn every single part of the manticore out of existence. Not even ash was left behind. Once that was over, he takes out a cloth from under his cloak and wipes the blood from his sword, then slides it back into his sheath and turns to the now shocked zebra who seemed to still be shaken up. He walks over to ehr and crouches down in front of her, offering his hand to help her up.

“That was a close call. Wouldn’t you agree?”

She gets a good look at his face with what remaining light existed in the lantern that now laid beside her. Clearly, he was a pony, but one of uncommon size to be sure. Nonetheless, she was grateful to her rescuer. She gladly takes his hand and pulls herself up from the ground as he also lifts her to her hooves.

“I thank you, kind stranger. Because of your bravery and valor, I was saved from great danger.”

Mystogan blinked as he noticed she spoke in rhymes. He was rather curious about that. But he was more than happy to help her. He’d never let another pony meet such a terrible end especially when he could prevent it. He stands back up from his crouched position. The zebra tilts her head back as she gazes up at the mountain pony in awe. She was amazed at his sheer size.

“My goodness. To see a stallion in such size...it makes me question my eyes.”

Mystogan lets out a laugh and nods, reassuring her that he was indeed that size.

“Yes, I am a mountain pony. We come this large naturally. Though from what I can tell, you are no regular pony yourself. I think...you are called a...zebra. Yes? And I am curious. Why is it you speak in rhymes? I imagine it must be rather hard to find the right words when speaking to another pony while trying to make them rhyme. Not that it’s a bad thing of course.”

Nopony had really ever asked her why she rhymed. He was certainly the first. She nodded her head as he said she was a zebra. She averted her eyes with a slight blush on her face. He was different just as she was. She felt like she could tell him.

“Well, I rhyme because it is unique. Back where I am from, my kind looked nearly all the same. So to distinguish myself from the others, I started rhyming to gain a little bit of…..individuality. And it just became a habit.”

“Well, you are here now. Ever think that you don’t have to do such things anymore? After all, you are in a land where your kind’s number is only you. Just as I am the only mountain pony here as well. There is no need to force yourself to sound so unique anymore. After all, from what I can tell, you are already unique, to begin with. You...well, you are an exotic beauty from afar. And I won’t lie, your voice and accent are very alluring.”

Zecora felt a blush come across her muzzle as he said those words. She had never been called beautiful by another pony before. And his words of kindness only made her feel all fuzzy and warm on the inside. A feeling she had only felt a few times in her life.

“These are kind words you say. They have most certainly made my day.”

Mystogan smiled to her, happy he was able to make her feel better after that close brush with death. He reaches into his satchel and pulls out another vial that had a glowing white liquid in it. He squeezes it and the glass shatter, he opens his hands up as a glowing orb of bright light shines in the area, almost as if it was daytime and hovers overhead.

“Shall I walk with you back to your home? Just in case something happens again? Or will you be fine on your own?”

Zecora thought about it for a moment. She certainly wouldn’t mind his company, that much was clear. But her hut may not be the most comfortable size for a stallion of his size. But he did offer her to accompany her back to her home. So how could she say no to her savior?

“I..I would like that very much. And thank you again for your words. I..I feel like I can speak normally around you because you understand the way I feel in these lands. Though since I have been rhyming for so long, It may slip out from time to time.”

Mystogan shakes his head lightly.

“Well, I won’t mind. It’s actually pretty adorable when you do it. So a few slips here and there will be no problem at all.”

They walked and talked about random things as they walked through the forest. Predators certainly stayed away from the zebra now that a monstrous-sized pony walked with her. They wanted no part of that after seeing what had happened to the manticore. When Mystogan got around to telling Zecora that he was an alchemist, and that was the reason why he needed the manticore’s tail. Its venom was necessary for a project he was working on

“You are an alchemist? That is quite the lovely surprise. I am a herbalist. Though, my work mostly involves potions and cures. I have heard that alchemist specializes in all fields.”

“Well, as an alchemist, I can create potions of all kinds. Not only that, but I can also create handmade magic. Though it requires a structural matrix to activate the magic, otherwise it will not work once I release them from the containers Is you saw earlier. Without the circle, it would just be a mess in my hands.”

Zecora blinked in curiosity as she looked for these circles on his hands. However, she did not see them. Mystogan noticed her curious gaze and stopped to remove his gauntlets. And there they were. The circles in their structure burned deep within his skin, fully scarred over and inked. Zecora frowned at this when she thought of the pain he must have had to endure to get these on not just one, but both palms. Mystogan noticed the expression on her face and shook his head quickly.

“I-it didn’t hurt that much, I promise! And it was my choice to become an alchemist and take on multiple fields. So please, don’t feel bad.”

“I understand it was your choice to make. But still. It seems rather..self-destructive to become an alchemist. And as a healer and medicine maker. It is my job to heal wounds. So it pains me to see that these markings have been placed upon your hands.”

She said as she took one of his large hands into both of hers and lightly rubbed the scarred areas of his hand. The skin that she felt from the markings was smooth and shiny. Thankfully it was only the markings that were the scarred tissue. She felt his thick fur that covered the untouched skin. She wanted to feel it more but pulled away when she saw a slight blush across his muzzle.

“Goodness me..I did not mean to overstep my boundaries.”

Mystogan understood her curiosity. It isn’t every day two very different species of equines get to see one another. He just slid his gauntlets back on and nodded to her again.

“It’s quite alright. You just...have a nice and gentle touch is all.”

Eventually, they made to Zecora’s hut just as the glowing orb gave out. Mystogan stood next to Zecora’s door as she opened it up. She looks up at him with a warm smile. Her eyes gazing up into his. She liked the way his eyes looked. They even shared the same sky blue color as hers did.

“Thank you for making sure I got home safely. I’d invite you in, but I don’t think you’d be comfortable in such a small space. My name is Zecora by the way.”

“And my name is Mystogan. And Zecora is a wonderful name for a pretty zebra mare such as yourself. If you are ever on the outskirts of Ponyville, you can spot my home rather easily. It’s the only one with stone walls and roofing.”

“I...I would like that. You are certainly an interesting stallion, Mystogan. Perhaps you could show me your skills in alchemy should I come and visit.”

“And I am sure there is plenty you could show me as well with your mastery of medicines and potions as well, Zecora. Feel free to come by anytime you need assistance.”

She gave a nod and a more narrow-eyed gaze at him with a sultry smile. This made Mystogan’s heart nearly skip several beats.

“I..most certainly will come see you. For one as handsome and as strong as you, I would gladly come see you in a day or two.”

Mystogan chuckled as she rhymed at him again. He lifted his hand in a wave as he slid his hood up over his head.

“Goodnight Zecora, sweet dreams to you.”

“And you as well, Mystogan. Hopefully I will see you in mine…”

Mystogan’s muzzle blushed once again as he heard that. Which only made him quicken his walking speed back to his own home. This was certainly something he’d have to write in his book about. He suddenly ehard his stomach rumble as he walked about as well. Having to use as much strength as he did, the stallion had to get something to eat. This being one of his weaknesses. Should he not get enough to eat, his strength can faulter from time to time.
> Act 4: Twilight Comes For A Visit
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was an early, cool crisp morning. Mystogan stood in his basement at his alchemy table and set up. A dark blue light lit up the corner of the basement that he stood at. If one would walk in, they would notice syringes laying next to him on the table filled with glowing liquids of different colors with the needles covered by a protective plastic piece. This was a little experiment of his he was working on before he had left home and now continued said project now that he had a bit of free time on his hands. He only had a couple more days until he’d set out westward to explore the land. He said he was going to try and get to know as many ponies as he could, but to him, his work was his number one priority. As Mystogan continued to work, he flicked his ears as he started to hear rain hitting the roof above his home and the sound of rolling thunder. He simply shook his head as he worked.

“Good thing I wasn’t planning on leaving today…”

He said as he lifted up one of the syringes and sucked up the liquid he had created out of mixed ingredients. Once it was all inside, it gave off a brilliant golden orange glow. He placed the needle on the top of it and flicked it a few times to make sure that it would flow nicely through the needle. Once he finished with that, he places a protective plastic-like sheath over it and sets it next to the other liquid filled syringes. He was about to get started on the next one when he heard a heavy knocking at his door. He blinked a few times before heading up the flight of stairs. The knocking seemed to persist with every few seconds.

“Are you home Mystogan?! Please, let me in, the storm is bad out here!”

The voice in question was rather familiar. He quickened his pace to the door and unlocked the multiple locks and opened it to find that lavender unicorn mare he had met the other day. She was completely soaked to the bone. And he even saw that the storm was worse than it sounded from below. Heavy rain, strong wind, he’d be heartless to turn her away should he do so. But he wasn’t that kind of pony.

“Ah, you are the princess’s favored student. Twilight, was it? Please, come in before you get sick. Let me fetch you a towel. I have the fire going in the fireplace as well.”

“Twilight quickly made her way inside before Mystogan shut the door and relocked his locks once more. He made his way into his bathroom and got her a fresh clean towel that sat up in one of the cabinets. When he returned he already saw her sitting in front of the fire, trying to dry off as much as she could. He walks over to ehr and lays the towel over her body and wraps it around her. She looks up at him with a smile and nuzzles into the oversized towel.

“Thank you, Mystogan. I didn’t mean to come by unannounced...but my umbrella got taken by the sudden shift in the wind. And my home is still quite a walk away. And your home was the only closest building…I-.”

She was cut off by a hand that Mystogan raised up. He shook his head and smiled lightly at her. Assuring her that all was well in the matter. He walked over to his kitchen and began to pull out a few ingredients to make his mother’s recipe for that thick hearty soup that she always made for him.

“It’s quite alright. If it were any other pony, I might have turned you away. But you and your friends seem okay enough. Please make yourself comfortable and I will get you some nice hot soup. It keeps ponies from getting colds and it tastes absolutely wonderful. And it is about lunch time after all.”

Twilight frowned a bit when she heard him he’d turn other ponies away, but she couldn’t help but smile since he would have brought in her friends as well as her if they had shared the same predicament. He wasn’t a heartless pony, he just didn’t trust others very well. She nodded and spoke back to him.

“I appreciate this very much, Mystogan. And thank you for offering to feed me. You are very kind to do so.”

She gazes around the main room to see that is was as reinforced and well built on the inside just as well on the outside. One thing she took notice of right away was the bookshelves that covered nearly every single part of the wall on each side other than the doors and windows. It took all her willpower to not get up and grab the first book that was closest to her. All this knowledge solely known by mountain ponies, and she had to have it for herself as well. She shifted her attention to the rather large furniture that laid about the room as well. The couch alone could fit her and still have enough room for three more ponies to sit or lay comfortable. She couldn’t help herself anymore, however. She gets to her hooves and walks towards the kitchen. She leans in as she watched him cook and shifted her eyes before asking him nervously.

“May...may I read a few of your books? I am rather curious about mountain ponies. And with your treasure trove of knowledge just sitting here…”

She gazed at him with hopeful eyes, an adorable sparkle to them only made it harder to deny her. He shrugged lightly and nodded. Making it seem like he didn’t care.

“Help yourself. Though I must ask you not to read the material downstairs. Or should I say...I recommend you don’t even touch it. Should you want to get hurt anyways. That is all my research material and I have coated each book with a form of...safety precaution liquid. Anypony else with the intent of stealing my work will be met with pain. Unimaginable...everlasting...pain.”

Twilight’s ears dropped and her eyes widened wondering what exactly he had in store for another pony who would be unfortunate enough to even touch one of those books. But then she was caught off by the smirk he gave.

“Just kidding of course. But please, leave my research material alone. I will make it public sooner or later.”

Twilight sighs in her mind with relief happy that he was only kidding with her. And she’d respect his wish and only keep to the books in the main room. She grabs the first book from the closest shelf and hopes back happily towards the fire and sits in front of it still wrapped up in the large towel like a blanket. As she reads, she can’t help but also enjoy the smell of the soup that he was preparing. She smiled to herself and turned the pages every now and then to indicate she had moved on to the next part of the book. What she was learning in the first one was very fascinating to her. It revealed that mountain ponies are excellent warriors and crafters. And that their bonds with one another are like family, even if not related by blood. However, the information she was looking for didn’t seem to be in any of the books she had pulled from the shelf. She still wanted to know about this whole ‘Crystal Empire’. That her teacher had spoken of the day Mystogan Had arrived in Ponyville.

“Twilight, it is ready to eat. Come before it gets cold.”

Twilight stands up and drops the towel to the side, having been wrapped up in that for awhile and in front of the warming fire, she had completely dried off. She makes her way into the kitchen and over to the dining table where Mystogan had set out a bowl for her and a bowl for himself with the large pot sitting in the middle. Though, his bowl was about three times more the size of hers. She understood why though since he was over twice the size of her. Mystogan grabs her bowl and fills it to the brim with the special soup and sets it down in front of her as she makes her way to the chair. He then fills his own bowl up. She had even noticed a bread-like item that appeared to be rather flakey. Her gaze of curiosity was caught by Mystogan and he couldn’t help but smile.

“Never had a biscuit before? They are quite tasty. Especially if you add a bit of butter or jelly on them.”

“I have heard of biscuits before. But they were also called cookies. But these are nothing like cookies.”

Mystogan grabs one from the tray that they sat on and opens it up carefully. He takes the knife that laid next to the butter and cuts a bit of it off and places it into the large flakey biscuit. He then sets it next to her on the napkin that rested near her bowl.

“You will want to have these with almost every meal like this, I promise.”

Twilight was genuinely curious now. She took hold of the biscuit and took a good bite of it. She widens her eyes wondering how something so simple could taste so good just by adding a bit of butter to it. She quickly downs the biscuit and begins to go after the soup afterward. Her eyes sparkle as her pupil increase in size at how amazing his cooking was. Mystogan saw the look on her face and in her eyes. It made him smile to see that she was enjoying the food he had prepared for them. As they are, no words were exchanged. This usually meant that the food was too good for small talk. And soon enough, that large pot was empty of its contents. Mostly by Mystogan. But, by her third bowl, Twilight was more than satisfied. Mystogan stood up and took the bowels and pot over to the sink and began to wash them all out. He noticed that the rain hadn’t let up in the slightest in all that time. Not to mention it was getting early in the evening.

“If the rain doesn’t stop before sunset, please feel free to stay the night in the guest room. There are plenty of blankets and pillows in there. So whenever you get tired, just go and get comfortable. I wouldn’t want you to get sick in this weather.”

He finished cleaning up the dishes and places them out to dry on a small towel. Twilight blinked a few times at his generous offer. He was so sweet to offer her a place for the night should the weather not improve. She gets up from the chair and pushes it back under the table and walks over to his side. She gazes up at him with a slight smile. Though she notices that his expression has gone rather...neutral as he spoke again.

“I must return downstairs for my work. Should you need anything, come find me.”

As he walked away, she called out to him before he could go back down into his lab, quickly making her way to his side again.

“Mystogan! Um…”

She said as she circled her hoof on the wooden flooring as she fidgeted with her hands, a light blush forming on her face.

“Thank you...for feeding me and letting me stay here. I am really sorry if I caused you any trouble…”

“You didn’t cause me any trouble, Twilight. I simply did what I felt was right to do. Now then, I am sure you wish to continue reading all the books you can. So please make yourself at home. And don’t worry about me. I usually spend my time in my lab. I hardly even sleep now that I have all this free time to continue my studies. Just remember, please do not read any of my books downstairs.”

“Of course, I shall not break your trust. You have my word, I shall not read anything downstairs. Though..I’d like to see what you do, exactly. From one knowledge seeker to another. May I...come see you do your work? I won’t trouble you. I just wish to watch and learn about what an alchemist can do.”

Mystogan thought it over for a moment. What harm could there be in letting her watch what he does? And it was clear that the unicorn was genuinely interested in seeing how his alchemy worked. He simply nodded and motioned her to follow him. She gasps lightly in delight and follows behind him as they descend into the basement lab.

When Twilight saw that he had more books down here than the main floor. Her urge for his alchemical knowledge bubbled to the surface quickly. But at the same time, she did promise him. And she wasn’t going to ruin that first fragile line of trust. If there was any, to begin with. She took her mind off of the books when she noticed the large table in the middle that holds a rather impressive alchemical set up of tubes, beakers and many containers that held various stones, herbs, plants and many other ingredients that Mystogan used for his work. Not to mention the faint glow of a few torches and a lantern that sat in the middle of the table definitely added to the mood. She watched as Mystogan places a few items on certain spots of the large table into what looked like a casting circle. Once he had them all in the right place, he looked back to Twilight.

“Step back a little. There is a bit of discharge when this is being done.”

Before Twilight could ask, a sudden red and blue light starts flailing about like lightning on the table as Mystogan places his hands over the casting circle. Twilight took notice of the same exact circles that were on his hands but had a finer form of writing within them. How was this even possible? Was this a form of magic? Is that what alchemy was? A manner of magic that the mountain ponies could only obtain? And could it only be done with those casting circles? She watched as the items in question seem to melt down into some kind of liquid that flowed toward the middle of the circle that filled up an indention. Mystogan took one of the empty syringes and sucked it up inside. This liquid glowed a rather deep crimson, almost exactly like blood.

“W-what is that, Mystogan…?”

Twilight asked as she watched him flick the needle and then put a cap on it, just as he did with the others. He places it next to the others that he had in each group, already having made quite a few that were similar. His gaze doesn’t leave his table, but he answers her.

“Just an experiment I have been working on for a few years now. I believe I am reaching a final successful result with this batch. Why make potions that take time with their results...when I direct injection gives you immediate results? As an alchemist, one must think outside the box. See, we aren’t like doctors..oh no. We go a step beyond practical medicine. We even do things that are possibly frowned upon to progress in the field of better alchemy. Animal slaughter is no exception.”

Twilight shuttered and back away a bit as he mentioned animal slaughter. The thought of it made her a bit sick. She shifted her gaze to indeed see animal body parts on the shelf in the room against the back wall, including that manticore’s tail all be preserved in jars with some kind of icy blue liquid. If Fluttershy saw what was in this room, the poor mare would have a fit with what Mystogan has done and continues to do in order to further his alchemical knowledge.

“You see, Twilight…”

He said as he turned to her, his sky blue eyes glowing brighter than the torched that barely lit the room. They looked sinister enough, but for some reason, Twilight didn’t feel any danger from him. He held out his arms to his sides with his hands opened, the circles engraved on his hands giving off an icy white glow.

“Alchemists aren’t afraid to do what is necessary for the greater good. That does not mean we don’t have morals, and that some of our decisions sometimes haunt us. But if we can do it to help save lives or even make other ponies’ lives better. We will do it.”

Twilight couldn’t explain the feeling she was experiencing as Mystogan spoke. The way he spoke, the way he was standing in front of her. And the way he opened up his wings as he spoke with her. He spoke with conviction. Her who body was shaking, especially ehr legs. But, she wasn’t shaking out of fear. In fact, it was the total opposite. It was in...excitement and arousal. Twilight had finally found another pony who wasn’t afraid to excel and progress in the ways of science. She could feel her heart beating rapidly in her chest, and a bit of moisture forming between her legs. Could he really be the one she had secretly be hoping for ever since she was a filly? She suddenly starts to fall back as she faints. Mystogan was quick enough to catch her in his arms and lift her up carefully. He shook his head with a light chuckle as he took her upstairs and into the guest room. He lays her on the bed and tucks her into the blankets. He makes his way to the door and closes it quietly after saying.

“Good night, Twilight. I hope you sleep well.”

The door quickly clicks as it closes. Mystogan then returns to his lab to continue his work.
> Act 5: The Results Of Years Of Experimentation
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mystogan walked out the door of his home. The morning was cool and crisp. Perfect weather to begin his first journey out into the changed world that he had been tasked with to document from his home. He threw his hood over his head with his sword and satchel at his sides. He was ready. The question is. Where would he first start? Should he head more toward the western lands where it is mostly desert and small towns? Or head further into the green lands with thick and lush forests? That laid more in the south? Or maybe, in the east where the more oriental lands laid. He was more than excited to begin his exploration. With his satchel packed with both his experimental items and plenty of food and drink. He begins to make his way eastward following the map he had gotten from Twilight the more she had left his home from the onslaught of rain as a thank you. Once he got a good look at the map, his placed it in a pocket in his armor under his cloak and spread his wings and was about to take to the sky before he heard a voice call out to him.

“Mystogan! Wait!”

Mystogan turned his head to see Celestia flying towards him. She smiled and waved to him in the process of her descent as she saw him fully armored and ready to depart. She had caught him at the right time it seemed. She lands a bit away from him then walks up to him.

“Leaving so soon…?”

Mystogan gave a nod to the alicorn and pats the side of his satchel., indicating he was ready to go and gather as much information as he needed to take back home with him. However, Celestia was about to change his mind with an offer that sounded like a nice opportunity for him to have some fun and learn all he could about Canterlot and even the castle.

“Well, I was hoping you’d be willing to attend a wedding that we are going to have. Normally I wouldn’t bother you with such things. But, this is a wedding of my royal guard captain and the princess of love. And I would be happy to have you as a guest there as well, since you are the first of your kind to have come from your mountaintop in many years. Think of it as an unofficial official mountain pony representer invite to witness a once in a lifetime event for your information gathering. After all, it isn’t every day both a royal guard captain and princess get married.”

Mystogan could see she half telling the truth from her gaze. But something else seemed to be on her mind as well. He crosses his arms and arches a brow at the sun princess. Clearly, she wasn’t inviting him just out of the goodness of her heart.

“Princess, if you want me to come party down with you all and attend a wedding, I am all for that. And as you said, it is a special occasion when a guard captain and princess get married. But I can also see that something has you worried. Looking passed what is real and what is a lie is a specialty of every alchemist. I know I am a stranger to you and almost everypony here. But if we are going to trust one another. I need you to be honest with me. Even with small situations like this. Now, what is troubling you?”

Celestia blinked in shock at his skills to read people simply through gazing into their eyes. While it was true that the eyes are the window to the soul, his went beyond that point. He couldn’t read her mind, certainly not. But he did indeed see something was troubling her behind that smile and friendly gaze. She looks to the side slightly embarrassed by this and fidgeted with her hands.

“Gurren could always tell when something was troubling me as well. Not just me, but Luna too. Come, fly with me.”

Both Celestia and Mystogan fly up to a large cloud that they both landed upon and sat on. They both got comfortable sitting across from one another and Celestia lets out a sigh before meeting his gaze once more.

“Not only do we have this big wedding coming up. But, a threat against Canterlot has been made. So, you’d be a guest, yes. But at the same time if things went south. You’d be an...unknown countermeasure to the invading party. Your presence and raw strength along with you alchemic abilities would certainly throw the enemy or even enemies for a loop. So i was hoping...that you would...well…”

Mystogan placed a finger to Celestia’s muzzle to cut her off. He shakes his head and laughs lightly as he lowers his hand back down to his side.he lets out a sigh.

“I think you overestimate my abilities, princess. Should it be an entire army or something along those lines, I can only do so much. But, yes, I would be happy to help you while enjoying the festivities.”

Celestia was a bit surprised he’d agree to this rather quickly, but at the same time show was very happy to have him both attending and acting as a...secret weapon of sorts. They talk it over a bit more before Celestia leads him to the castle to offer him a place to stay during before and after the wedding. That way should things happen, he’d be close, and for his benefit, he could explore both the castle and the town below. Canterlot was on his list of places to visit either way. So why not enjoy staying as a guest in the castle and gather information? Two bird with one stone and all that. Celestia had also told him to keep this a secret from Twilight and the others, as they’d soon find out through invitation.

Once Mystogan got settled into his guest chambers at the castle, he stepped out of his room in a more casual dress style. Black leather pants, no shirt, but a black cloak that covered his back and most of his front. Like the one that he wore with his armor, just a bit more of a simpler design and leather arm guards. However, he had his potion bandolier that held his new experimental injections and his satchel and sword on him at all times which his nicely in his cloak. As he walked through the castle, he knew that eyes would be on him. Not only because of him being a guest or even a threat. But because of what he is. Monster sized pony walking among smaller ones like it was just another day. He was more than happy to speak to both guards and castle staff alike who had asked questions about him. While he was happy to give out some information, he kept the more juicy bits to himself. After all, the enemy could very well have spies within. Eventually, his wandering lead him to bump into the captain of the royal guard himself within the castle guards, Shining Armor. He spotted Mystogan walking passed the fountain writing something in a book as he glanced about.

“Ah, so the princess wasn’t kidding about your size…”

He said as he approached Mystogan gazing up at him with slight awe. While Shining Armor is built tough and strong. Mystogan has both muscle mass and height doubled over on him. Mystogan smiled at the guard captain and closed the book and slid both the quill and book under his cloak and into his satchel.

“Yeah, I have been getting that a lot. And I assume you are the lucky stallion in question who is getting married to a princess? How in all of Equestria did you manage to pull that one off bud? Reveal your secrets.”

Shining just laughed a bit and shrugged. He liked Mystogan already with how laid back and easygoing he was. They talked about mares and other guy things for a while until his soon to be bride approached from around the corner. Mystogan looked the mare up and down before looking over at Shining and giving him a sagely nod in approval before leaning in and whispering.

“Don’t fuck up bud. She is one fine mare. And I am leaving it at that.”

He leans up quickly and clears his throat as he watches her get closer and take her place as Shining’s side. Her eyes look Mystogan up and down and she couldn’t help but blush as she caught a glimpse of his body under his cloak as the wind blew it to the side slightly. But then wraps her arm around Shining’s and nuzzles into his shoulder.

“And you must be the princess who is going to take this lucky guy off the market for good. Princess Mi Amore Ca...Ca..”

She giggled softly and shook her head

“Just Cadence is fine. Aunty Tia told me about you though. Had I not seen it with my own eyes. A real mountain pony walks among us. Quite a sight to behold.”

Mystogan was about to respond before he seemed to feel a bit of familiarity with Cadence. He leaned in and knelt down in front of her with his sky blue eyes tracing her form. All of it. He reaches toward her mane.

“Forgive me.”

He said as he took hold and began to examine it. In fact, all her features pointed towards the resemblance of crystal ponies. He stands back up and steps away from the couple leaving them with rather shocked and slightly upset face, but then their faces just went to confusion as to what he said next.

“You resemble a long forgotten race of ponies called ‘crystal ponies’ princess. Much like Princess Aurora when she was in power before she was overthrown by King Sombra.”

Cadence suddenly knew why he did what he did and reassured Shining that all was well. Though she motioned Mystogan back down and whispered to him.

“Not many know that that empire ever existed. Even Aunty Tia’s knowledge is limited. But...you seem to know quite a bit more about it. Perhaps your knowledge may help us one day. But for now, could you please keep that knowledge between us and yourself? “

Mystogan wasn’t sure why she had asked him that, but he agreed and gave a nod in response. She smiled up at him as thanks before he stood up. He figured it was time to leave the lovebirds alone so they could spend a bit of time together. He waved goodbye to them before venturing into the gardens and even eventually making his way down to the city below, still getting those same reactions from nearly every pony that saw him.

The next couple of days, Mystogan went about learning all he could and writing it all down in his book. Having already finished filling up one with just how much he has learned within Canterlot Castle, he now had a full book on the city itself. However, the day of the wedding was that same day. Celestia had mentioned that he needed to stay hidden from the wedding, but remain close by just in case things went crazy. And crazy did things go. Mystogan gazed up to see...bug-like creatures pounding both their bodies and weapons against the magical barrier that Shining had put up over the city and castle. Mystogan closed his book and lets out a sigh of annoyance.

“I guess I will be needed after all. A great time to test out some of my new toys…”

He said as he made his way toward the chapel in a brisk walk towards the chapel. He was ready to take on the enemy. The question is. Would they be ready to take him on? One thing was for sure, he was going to be VERY hungry after this whole ordeal. Dinner was on the princesses tonight.

--An Hour Later--

WIth Celestia now encased in a cocoon-like prison and  Twilight and her friends surrounded by changelings and their queen, it all seemed nearly hopeless as princess Cadence watched as her beloved Shining Armor’s mind was in complete control from Chrysalis’ magic. Things seemed to be going in all the wrong directions when the door suddenly flies open with a changeling’s mangled body rolled onto the floor. Everypony turned to see what was going to happen next to see a large hulking figure holding a changeling in his arms as he began to tear open its exoskeleton with ease, a loud shriek of pain coming from the struggling changeling.

"Quite a fascinating anatomy you bug things have..."

He said in a rather cold and calculating tone. He reaches into his satchel and pulls out a knife and slits the creature’s throat. Then proceeds to fill up syringe after syringe of the changeling’s blood for experimental use later. All this in front of every pony to see before dropping the drained body of the poor thing to his hooves. Mystogan approached through the aisle. He reaches into his cloak and pulls out his changeling blood covered sword as he locks his gaze onto Chrysalis who gazed at the mountain pony in shock. Not only because she watched him literally tear one of her children apart, but because of his size and mass. The changelings that seemed to have gathered in mass in front of the altar now focused their attention on Mystogan with their weapons drawn. Mystogan reaches to his bandolier and pulls out a golden orange syringe with a needle prepped and ready for use.

Send as many as you want after me..”

He said before jabbing the needle into his right arm. What happened next shocked everypony in there. Even Celestia could see what was going on inside of her prison that was hanging from the ceiling. As the liquid flowed into Mystogan’s veins, he lets out a shudder and grits his teeth hard. Nearly every vein in his body began to glow the same color along with his eyes.

“Yeeeaaahh...keep those eyes open…”

He said as his vision was now able to spot certain weak points on everypony’s body within his vision. This was his injection of exposure. Allowing him for a few minutes to see and use physical weaknesses against his opponents, but at a cause of quite a bit of his energy when it had worn off. Twilight and the others watched in pure shock and slight fear of what Mystogan was doing to the now charging Changelings. With a swipe and thrust of his blade, he was cutting vital veins and organs of each of them, making them drop to the ground in near instant death as blood gushed everywhere and pooled out onto the floor. This made the ponies with the more weaker stomachs feel like vomiting or pass out while the others were simply too in shock to look away as Mystogan slowly made his way up to Chrysalis who looked up at him. She was visibly shaking as she did her best to try and move away from him. But his gaze was paralyzing. Mystogan brought his blade up and ran it through Chrysalis’ hair before grabbing at her chin and examining her up and down like a fresh piece of meat ready to be dissected.

“Hmmm...what to do with you. Keep you alive and take you apart slowly? Or kill you where you stand and preserve your body for further experimentation? After all, you aren’t a pony. Creatures like you are meant to go under the blade of somepony like myself to further benefit the existence of ponies.The more we can learn about how you work, the more prepared we can be to face you down should your kind come knocking once more.”

Chrysalis couldn’t move. Every nerve in her body was telling her to run. Run and forget everything that had transpired here. Her thought process was interrupted when the hilt of Mystogan’s sword nailed her directly in the stomach. She was about to collapse to her knees when he grabbed her by the hair and lifted her up with one hand. He had knocked the wind out of her as she had trouble breathing with that last hit. Mystogan looked at her with a rather...disgusted look on his face.

“A creature that can take the form a someone who they love the most. A rather sad existence if you ask me.”

Twilight watched as Mystogan treated Chrysalis in such a...degrading and almost evil manner. She remembered back to that night from what he had told her. Did he really see the changeling race as subjects to further his own knowledge? Not to mention he’d really keep her alive and experiment on her? She hesitantly approached him at his side, gazing up at him.

“Mystogan..? Would you really be so cruel to her? I mean, she has done some awful things to me and my friends and family. But what you are talking about is beyond that.”

Mystogan’s gaze fell to Twilight which made her freeze in place as well.

“Why should this thing be nothing more than a test subject? Especially because of what she did. There is no greater use for her.”

Mystogan tosses her aside like a ragdoll and feels his energy starting to drain as the effects of the potion started to wear off. He collapses to a kneel, using his sword as a bit of support before looking to Twilight again.

“My time limit is up anyways. She is lucky….Anyone else hungry?”

Once everything was taken care because of Shining’s and Cadence’s power of love sending all the changelings to the outlands of Equestria. Things calmed down and the wedding was resumed with the REAL Cadence. Though Celestia and Twilight both had a great concern regarding Mystogan? Was he truly so cold when it came to his research? It was time for Twilight to reveal what Mystogan had told her to Celestia.
> Act 6: A Dark Secret Revealed About The Mountain Ponies
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mystogan had been away from Ponyville for about a week since the wedding. He had headed eastward to the oriental lands to gather what information he could about the current ways of life and knowledge of their culture. During his absence, Twilight and her friends had gone about their usual day to day activities. Though soon enough, the six mares were soon to find out something about Mystogan that had been kept shrouded deep within the underground archives hidden beneath that castle at Canterlot. Something that may forever change the way they see him as their friend or possibly more. Especially for the bookworm unicorn.

Twilight was in her home doing some usual studying when Spike, her little dragon companion, and his surrogate mother comes in with a letter addressed to Twilight. Wgt have he and Mystogan never met? Simply because they just could never find the right time with Mystogan being a nearly reclusive pony should he stay still in one place for too long.

“Hey, Twi? A letter just came from the princess. She said it was rather important for you and the others to head over to the castle right away. She said it was about your friend...Mystogan was his name?”

She takes the letter and nods to Spike with a smile and thanks him. He heads out of the room to go to his normal activities. Twilight begins to read through the letter and lets out a slight gasp as she read it.

”Dear Twilight,

With Mystogan out on his journey for the moment, I believe that your friends and I need to discuss something in private regarding the mountain pony and his kind. I did not want him to know about this meeting so I waited to call you to the castle when he departed.

This wasn’t because I didn’t want him involved. More to the point of...I’d rather not him find out because of what it could cause him to feel of his own kind. And more importantly, how he’d see himself because of it. I await you and your friends to come to the castle. Please make haste, as I remember Mystogan saying he’d return any day now.

Yours,
Princess Celestia”

She read this in her mind and quickly jumped to her hooves to gather a few things before heading out the door to go and gather her friends for the train ride to Canterlot. Once they had all gathered, they hoped the train and began their ascent up the tracks to the station i.n Canterlot. Along the way, Twilight briefed her five friends of the situation.

“I won’t lie. As handsome and charming as he is, Mystogan also seems quite...brutish. I don’t mean to sound like I don’t like him though! The stallion was kind enough to make a wonderfully soothing shampoo that makes my mane even more divine than it already is!”

“He seems like an alright stallion. It’s just...the way he tore into that changelin’ at the weddin’...and he even drained its blood. I can handle a lot of things Twi. But that kind of brutality and strength, it’s enough to make me even feel scared around him.”

“It’s not like he enjoyed doing it, you guys. Mystogan was just doing what he felt was right in order to get to us and everyone else. If you ask me, I thought it was pretty awesome how he showed those oversized bugs no mercy. Especially when ruining such a special day.”

They all said their piece about how they felt about Mystogan. They all came to the conclusion that he was just doing what he felt right. But in Twilight’s mind, her memories went back to that night she stayed at his home and the words he spoke. They rang in her head over and over.

“Alchemists aren’t afraid to do what is necessary for the greater good. That does not mean we don’t have morals, and that some of our decisions sometimes haunt us. But if we can do it to help save lives or even make other ponies’ lives better. We will do it.”

The fact that he was willing to take the life of another being or creature to do just that. It frightened her, but at the same time she admired him for his outlook on life. Do what needs to be done. Even if it is not the safest or more diplomatic route but, get it done. Something she was too afraid to even think about doing herself. Perhaps that is why she didn’t feel as if he was truly a monster. At least, not intentionally anyway.

Eventually, they made their way to the castle and met Celestia and Luna in that royal library. Celestia greeted them happily as did Luna. Once they made their way to a more..out of the way and secluded part of the library, Celestia turned to the group with a more serious look on her face. Even with a slight glare.

“Due to recent events. I need to inform the six of you, especially you, Twilight. About Mystogan and what he and his kind are. Please, follow me, and stay close.”

Celestia takes a key from her pocket and moves a bookshelf out of the way with her magic. Luna takes out a key as well. Both sisters place their keys into the two holes that then divide from a seamless door to a now opened passageway. They travel down into the dimly lit corridors which seemed...rather neat and tidy for a hidden place. It took all of Twilight’s willpower to not grab the first book she saw on the shelves they all passed, knowing her mentor wouldn’t approve. However, once they reached down to the end of the massive room at the end of the corridor, Celestia pulled out a rather large book that was decorated in a steel binding and a black hardback cover. The title read ‘The History Of The War Giants’. She holds the book in both hands and looks down at Twilight and the others.

“What I am about to tell all of you does not leave this room. Am I making myself clear?”

She asked in an almost threatening manner. They all nod and listen intently as Celestia opens the book up and turns a few pages with ehr magic.

“You see, my little ponies. The reason that Mystogan is desensitized from brutality and gore is that it is in his genetic makeup. Mystogan’s race is in fact bred for war and battle. While mountain ponies are gentle and kind during times of peace, once they get a smell of confrontation. It flips a switch on in their blood to tell them it’s time to draw their weapons once more. What you saw from Mystogan on the day of the wedding is something that just couldn’t be helped. And…”

She lowers her head and gripped the book a bit roughly. As she was having a hard time confessing this to them. She hadn’t even told Luna this secret of hers that she still regrets.

“I asked Mystogan to stay for the wedding just in case something like that would happen because I knew of his genetic disposition. I...I used him because of it. Knowing full well that he’d respond to the violent nature of the changelings. Under the guise of him protecting his friends, I used him as a secret weapon against the potential danger.”

Twilight and her friends saw the regret on the alicorn’s face once she spoke of what her true intentions were of having Mystogan around. Not because of having him as a friend and ally but, because of what he is instead of who he is? Twilight didn’t know why, but it stung her a bit to learn that her mentor used Mystogan in such a way. Before Twilight could get upset with her, Celestia spoke again.

“I now know that it was wrong of me to do this. I welcomed him into our land under false pretenses. But now that I realize that he truly did it not just because it is in his nature, but because he rushed to the safety of everypony in the chapel, I know that he is valuable not only for what he is but because of who he is. Now that I have told ALL of you this. I am going to reveal to you just how mountain ponies came to be.”

The book’s pages begin to turn rapidly and a bright light filled the room surprising all the ponies and even Luna.

“Long ago, before even Ponyville was founded. A mixture of both earth and pegasus ponies lived in a peaceful co-existence. They were strong and fierce, but loyal and kind to one another and saw each other as their own flesh and blood. And believe it or not, they actually ventured out into the world freely just like any other pony would. But, because of the a certain war that lasted for many, many years. Those very same ponies had to move further and further away from the land that they once occupied.

They had no choice but to move further and further up those mountains that their former home surrounded. And because of that, their bodies went through VERY noticeable changes as each generation passed. They grew larger, thicker coats of fur and even the pegasi grew stronger and larger wings, eventually leading to them having a second pair to fair against the harsh cold winds of the mountain tops.

Armies upon armies tried to rid the now mountain pony infested mountaintops in order to claim the land for their own. But this met with horrible repercussions because of not only having to face enemies large and stronger than they are, but because the near-constant threat of invasions tempered the minds and bodies, thus making them effective living weapons of war. While they did not favor starting wars, they certainly had no issues with finishing them, especially if it was on their lands or their allies. This brings us to the rather...darker side of Mystogan and his kind.

The reason why Mystogan is the way he is is that being both a warrior and an alchemist, he believes that violence and blood is also the key to bettering the lives of others because of how he feels it improves his alchemy skills as well. The way he tore open that changeling, the words his spoke and the way he looked down on Chrysalis as an experimental subject to be used. The thirst for both blood and knowledge is a deadly combination. And Mystogan, being a warrior and an alchemist spells potential trouble for those that are their enemy. Especially with the levels that Mystogan possesses. While he isn’t invincible by any means, A hardened body and a strong mind are dangerous in of itself. And the alchemists of the mountain pony race are just that.

But the fact that his race not only killed their enemies without mercy, they picked their fallen victims onto spikes to show that their new enemies would meet the same fate, or worse. Being subjected to brutal experimentation and cut open while still alive. This is why Mystogan has no issues with blood and gore. Because back then, it was common for his kind to slaughter and dissect any enemy that tried to invade them. As In said, it is in their blood and genetics.

As the years went by, fewer and fewer invaders came, i as they finally got the hint. This made the mountain ponies become less prone to instant bloodlust as peace had finally set in. But that long, long time of killing and dismembering was imprinted onto them. Which is why it seems so natural to just literally tear apart their enemies should killing them be an option.

So as you can see, mountain ponies are killing machines. But, this wasn’t out of choice. It was out of a strong will to live. I wanted to tell you all of this now because of what you may or may not see of our new mountain pony friend. But I want you to know this. He will not do these things because he can. Mountain ponies have a strong sense of loyalty and devotion to those they care for. And will take the step to murder should that arise.”

The light suddenly fades and the book shuts with a loud clap. Celestia takes the book into her magic and places it on the shelf where it once sat. The eyes of Twilight and her friends widened in both surprise and slight sadness for Mystogan. Never having known that his kind had to endure such things made them feel sorry for the large stallion.

“The poor dear was just doing what his kind have done all their lives. He is a kind-hearted soul to be sure. But because of his kind’s past. It made him into a brute, unintentional of course.”

“That explains why I felt fear from him that evening, but I felt no threat. It was a strange feeling indeed. He revealed to me that as an alchemist, he wasn’t afraid to do what he needed to do for the betterment of the lives of ponies, even if it went against his morals. His power and knowledge...it is so stimulating. So...inspiring~.”

They all noticed the blush on Twilight’s muzzle forming as she spoke those words. Celestia actually saw her student...blushing over a stallion? Though with Mystogan being that stallion, she wasn’t sure if this was a good or a bad thing. But at the same time, she couldn’t help but be happy that her student actually had intimate feelings for another.pony. Her friends were surprised by this as well. Twilight had never thought of anypony in such a manner. Normally she had books and studies on the brain. This was certainly a nice change.

“Very well then. I leave him in your capable hands then, my star student. I do believe that you and your friends, but especially you can make sure that he will always be surrounded by those who care and make sure that his brutish side doesn’t come up in unnecessary situations.

--A Few Hours Later--

A cloaked, armored figure steps over the hill that looked over Ponyville. His cloak flowed behind him as he removed his hood, revealing the face of Mystogan who had a slight smile on his muzzle. He had returned with gifts for his friends during his travel. And he couldn’t wait to return home and see them all.

“It’s good to be back.”

He said as he gazed up at the early evening sky.
> Act 7: The Rage Of A Mountain Pony
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mystogan walked into the town of Ponyville after his journey to the eastern lands. While Twilight and the others were at the castle speaking with Celestia, he had just returned to his home and began unpacking his things to stay for a week to recharge his batteries so to speak. Not that he was exhausted or anything like that. But, he did love to at least stay in one place for a little bit to relax. And with all the knowledge he had collected in books to take back home with him, he was very sure that the scholars back home or any other pony would be happy with his findings Even he was excited to learn things he didn’t know about. Though, his presence did cause quite a stir when he went there.

Once he had finished unpacking and got out of his heavy armor leaving him with just his normal cloak, leather arm wraps, and leather pants, he makes his way back outside to venture back into town to see if Twilight or any other pony he knew was around. Of course, he grabbed his sword and satchel. It didn’t matter where he went, he always took those two things with him. He first made his way over to Twilight’s home. He knocked on her door and awaited an answer, but there was none. The same with Rarity, Rainbow, Fluttershy and the others. On his way back home, however, he did run into a familiar face. He was walking along the path when he wasn’t paying attention and a cloaked figure bumped into him. She fell back, but he was quick to grab her hand and pull her back to her hooves before she could hit the ground.

“Ah, I am sorry! I should definitely pay more attention to where I am walking!”

The figure’s blue eyes gaze up to see Mystogan’s face. The mare smiled with delight as she removed her hood, revealing that unmistakable black and white mane and that wonderfully exotic voice as she spoke.

“Ah Mystogan, so good to see you once more! It has been too long since I have seen your handsome face. I trust your travels are going well?”

Mystogan smiled as the zebra remembered that she didn’t have to rhyme with him. He was extremely happy to see her once more as well. In fact, his next stop was going to be her little hut in the forest, but as luck would have it here she was right in front him. He reaches up and gently runs his large hand through her mane then down the side of her cheek. It seemed like the right thing to do to him. She was smaller, a close friend of his and from the way she reacted, she seemed to enjoy it as she nuzzled her cheek into his touch. Leaning in more as he takes his hand away.

“My travels took me to the eastern lands first. The lands that are there are rich in resources and in beauty. Both it’s ponies and landscape. They have plenty of herbs that you’d be interested in with your own potion making. And they have this kind of tea there called ‘green tea’ and you can drink it hot or cold. In fact, I have a little gift for you. I saw the herbs and tea and well..I thought of you. So here.”

He reaches into his satchel and pulls out several medium bags and a box of green tea leaves. Zecora lets out a slight gasp of happiness and hesitantly takes the gifts. Not because she didn’t want them, but she was surprised at his generosity at spending his money on her. She takes the items into her arms and looks them over. A warm smile forming on her muzzle once more as she presses her soft supple form against his, trying to hug him the best way she could.

“You are so sweet in getting this gift for me. I will most certainly be giving you something wonderful, just wait and see.”

Zecora knows she didn’t have to rhyme with him, but when she was happy, it was second nature to do so. Not that Mystogan minded. It was adorable. Especially with what she said. He wraps her in a gentle hug after kneeling down so that he could be at least a reasonable size for returning the affection. Zecora’s body shook and warmed when she felt his large strong arms wrap around her frame, both from his affection and her excitement of being held by such a physically strong pony. After a while, he stands back up onto his hooves and nods to the zebra.

“I would love to spend more time with you, Zecora. But I must find the others and give them their gifts. But, I do hope to see you again soon. Should you have need of my assistance with any of your potion making, you know where my home is. It was nice to see you again.”

As he walked past her, she quickly spins on one of her hooves and calls out to him before he could get too far away. A light blush forming on her face before she spoke to him.

“Wait, Mystogan! If...if you ever need anything...and I mean anything, please visit me. I would be happy to...assist you with anything. Even if you need…me.”

Mystogan thought about it for a moment before a blush formed over his own muzzle. His eyes averted to the side then to the ground as he understood the offer she was proposing to him. He quickly turned away with a nervous smile on his face as he began to fidget with his hands lightly.

“That is very kind of you to offer such things, Zecora. Perhaps one day when I am a bit closer to you, I will most certainly take you up on that offer. Mating with a mountain pony is..rather rough. Just a heads up.”

He said before resuming his way back to Ponyville. With those words, Zecora’s mind wondered about the possibilities of being taken by such a large beast of a pony. The thoughts only made her knees weaker and a shaky breath escape her muzzle as she turned to head back home. She was the happiest zebra alive right now.

A few hours later, Mystogan was down in his alchemy lab experimenting with the new herbs and stones he had gathered on his travels. He was deeply concentrated to the point where his eyes were squinting before he heard several loud ‘BOOM’s which nearly made him crush the test tube his was holding. He becomes fully alert to his surroundings and sets the tube on the rack and makes his way upstairs back to the first floor to open his door and take a look outside.

“What in the-.’

He was cut off by the sight before him, his eyes widening in shock as he sees smoke off in Ponyville and several buildings on fire. Mystogan didn’t waste any time in grabbing his satchel and sword. Not even bothering to armor up not knowing what could be happening or what or who is causing the chaos. All he knew is that he had to do something to help. Little did he know that this confrontation was going to show Twilight and her friends what Celestia meant when she said that Mystogan’s kind was ‘bred for war’.

The six mares with their elements at hand stood before the towering dragon covered in minor burn marks and scratches from the enemy’s claws. The being before them was a tall, hulking dragon with orange and red scales and yellow eyes. Smoke billowed from its nostrils and wisps of fire drifted from its mouth. He reaches for Fluttershy first.

Mystogan arrives to see the dragon bite into Fluttershy’s shoulder and begins to pull at her flesh, her eyes widen in pain and a cry of agony escapes her muzzle as tears flood down the side of her now blood splattered cheeks.

“FLUTTERSHY, NOOOO!”

Cried out Rainbow Dash who looked like she was on the verge of tears herself, the others crying out as it seemed that the magic of the elements did not bother the dragon at all. After he had torn a chunk of flesh from his shoulder and even broke the bone, he threw her to the ground as he sent her tumbling off. Between the sight that Mystogan had witnessed and the sound of cries of pain and help and the smell of the burning buildings filling his nostrils. Mystogan both felt and heard his heart beating heavily. His eyes shifted in every direction before he grabs his head and lets out a loud scream/growl of absolute hatred and anger. Both the dragon and the others heard this cry of a warrior that was about to unleash hell upon the poor soul who had invoked his wrath. Mystogan’s eyes suddenly change from their usual calm sky blue hues to a mixture of ruby red and amethyst. Even the slits in his eyes become thinner than normal. The dragon only had time to face Mystogan before he leaped forward with his wings outstretched and with a look of a psychotic enraged killer flying towards him. A large mountain pony fist connects with the side of the dragon’s jaw sending him flying and twirling through the air. The dragon lands on his feet as he slid back. His eyes widening as he realized what Mystogan was. The shock of seeing the mountain pony was even more overwhelming than the sharp pain he was now feeling from his nearly fractured jaw.

“It can’t be...your kind hasn’t come down from the mountains in over a thousand years! If the war giants have sent one of their own, this is NOT good!”

Mystogan didn’t say a word, he just charged forward with another flying leap as he and the dragon locked arms in a grapple. Both the monstrous creatures struggling with their strength. Twilight and her friends moved to Fluttershy quickly to try and help her anyway they could.Though Twilight’s gaze fell upon what Mystogan had become. His body steamed to nearly double in muscle mass, or so it appeared. And those eyes...those eyes scared her to her core. And what’s more, Mystogan was in full control and aware of what he was doing. And wit5h the adrenaline and hate that was fueling the fire within Mystogan, the dragon began to struggle even more as his legs started sliding back even with his feet firmly planted into the ground. Mystogan lets out another loud battle-cry before shoving forward once more. The stallion was not going to give the dragon a chance to defend himself.

“Oh, fu-GAH!”

Was all the dragon managed to get out before Mystogan got him to the ground. He takes hold of the arm that the dragon tried to block his face with and holds it out to his side before he starts pummeling his fist into the dragon’s face over and over, more and more blood splattering on his hand with each blow. Mystogan didn’t even think to grab his sword. He was dealing full-on blunt blows before he stood up and stomped his large hoof into the dragon’s chest over and over, smashing his ribs and even stomping through to crush his lungs and heart to a liquefied soup. This went on for what felt like forever until the dragon was totally dead. Mystogan even stomped in his head to the point where brain matter was flying from under his hoof. Twilight watched all those in horror as Mystogan’s brutality was not overestimated by Celestia. Rarity and Pinkie both turned away from the blood and gore as they felt their stomachs starting to turn. Mystogan’s eyes turned to face his group of friends who felt their fur stand on end with that gaze now freezing them in place. He hurriedly made his way over to the group and shoved them all aside. Even pushing Rainbow away from Fluttershy so that he could have room to do what he was about to do.

“Get away from her you...you monster!”

Shouted Rainbow as she tried to get back to her friend’s side.

“Rainbow Dash! Let him do what he needs to!”

Shouted twilight as she pulled the cyan pegasus away from him and Fluttershy who was now clinging to life. Her eyes looking up at the mountain pony with a great source of fear in them. Not for him, but the fact that she thought she was going to die here. But Mystogan was not going to let that happen. In his state of hyper-awareness that came with the battle rage, he wasted no time in grabbing a bottle from his satchel and quickly drew the casting circle around Fluttershy. He poured the contents of the bottle onto his hands and rubbed them together, the markings on his palms began to glow along with the circle that he had drawn around Fluttershy and placed one hand on the wound and one below her left breasts to help regulate her heartbeat. The feeling of the wound and bone fully healing was going to hurt. So to keep her from possibly dying of shock, he had to make sure her heart was stable during the process. As it began, Fluttershy began to writhe and scream in agony as the healing process began. This wasn’t like healing magic where everything was healed without the pain. This took existing flesh and bone and literally regenerated from what was already there. This causing the nerves to painfully reattach. But in this case, everything was going to be properly healed, as it was done down to the very last little piece of flesh and bone. The others covered their ears to try and fade out their friend’s cries. Eventually, the wound was sealed completely, not even a scar was present. Mystogan lifts the now passed out yellow pegasus into his arms and looks back to the others with his eyes still that same mixture of ruby red and amethyst present.

“See the others! And get those fires out! She will be fine, I promise!”

After putting out the fires and making sure that everypony was safe and sound, Mystogan was quick to dispose of the dragon’s corpse through...gruesome means but got rid of it nonetheless.where nopony could see him do it. Once that was down, He stood at the entrance of the town. His eyes watched all the ponies pass by who were still trying to recover or rescue others from any fallen building. While others were trying to find their families and doing what they could to help anypony. He turns away from the entrance and begins to make his way to the lake that was near his house. Once there, he lowers himself to his knees and looks at his reflection. His eyes have still not shifted back to their normal blue, and the reflection of the blood splatter all over his upper body and face stared back at him as he lifted his hands up. They begin to shake as his eyes finally turn back to their sky blue. Finally realizing the gravity of what he had just done, he shuts his eyes hard and grits his teeth as he begins to wash off all the blood in haste.

“What was that…? it‘s like something activated inside of me when I saw everything there. Like something I didn’t know existed…”

The sound of hoofsteps could be heard a ways back as Pinkie peaks from behind the bushes and watches Mystogan clean himself of the blood. She felt bad for the stallion as he seemed to struggle to understand what had happened and why he had going in such a berserk-like state. It appeared that he truly didn’t know what Celestia had told her and her friends earlier that day. And keeping it from him when she could see the worried look on his face only made her feel for the mountain pony.

I know Celestia told us not to tell him. But what if this happens again? I...I didn’t Pinkie promise her. And he saved Fluttershy! He deserves that much!

She thought to herself as she slowly comes out from behind the bush and makes her way slowly to his side. She gently places a hand on his left arm as she comes up to his left side.

“Myst? Are you alright, big guy…?”

Mystogan sighed and simply nodded his head in response, splashing some of the water onto his face to clean off the rest of the dragon blood. He doesn’t shift his gaze to Pinkie, however. She sees that his eyes were focused on his reflection in the water and the way he stared was with a mixture of self-loathing and worry. She couldn’t take seeing her friend go without a smile. She decided he needed to know now before later down the road before it could really hurt him. And she certainly wasn’t going to stand for that. She sits next to him and looks out onto the water. She sighs softly and gently leans against him.

“Listen Myst. About what happened earlier. Celestia told me and the others-.”

“That I am not just a mountain pony, but something entirely more dangerous?”

Pinkie blinked a few times and wrapped her arms around his own in a big hug. She wasn’t going to let go either.

“How...how did you…?”

“I could tell the way you all looked at me when I was in the state I was in earlier. I saw a mixture of both concern and fear. I figured you and the others knew something otherwise you probably would have run. As an alchemist, we are good at reading others. So please, tell me what you know.”

Pinkie started to explain what Celestia had told her and the others about how he and the other mountain ponies were originally bred for war and destruction. And worst of all, this was something that the elders from where he was from knew this fact but chose not to tell him or possibly anypony else.

“So, I am a living war machine in the skin and flesh of a pony. And that is why murder and bloodshed come so naturally to me…? And as an alchemist...a pony who is supposed to help people can take the life of another so easily. I know I did what I had to do to save Fluttershy. But what if I lose control one day and I hurt you or the others? I could not live with myself if that ever happened. I...I cannot stay here anymore. I need to pack up and find a secluded place…”

“No, you can’t!”

Exclaimed Pinkie as she thought he was about to get up and leave, so she holds on still.

“If you leave Ponyville, I and the others would be sad! Especially...especially Twilight… And I still need to throw you a party! You hardly ever come out of your house when you are here. So you aren’t going anywhere, mister! Besides, I originally came out here to come and get you. Fluttershy wanted to see you. She is at home resting in bed. Thankfully with your quick actions, she is going to be fine.”

“But...I..”

“No buts, you are coming with me mister stallion!”

She said with a beaming smile as she used surprising strength to pull him back towards Ponyville.
> Act 8: The Fear Of The War-Bred Pony Resurfaced
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mystogan sat on the train reading through one of his books as it traveled toward the snowy northlands of Equestria. Never did he think he’d be heading so close to home so very soon. But because Twilight had asked him to come along with her on an important test given to her by Celestia herself, he was happy to offer his support in any way he could to the purple unicorn. He flips the next page of his book as he cancels out the conversation going on around him, not really noticing that Twilight had sat next to him and eyed him then his book curiously. The way his eyes were so narrowed and focused. He looked like he was a scholar at work. Not only did he have a mind of a scientist, but when he worked and even just read, he looked so naturally intelligent.

Mystogan’s eyes shifted over towards the sleeping Fluttershy that leaned against him with her arms around his right arm. Apparently because of how she was saved by his quick work, the mare had developed a thing for her hero in fluff. Even though he was fully clad in his armor, it still did not deter her away from him. Mystogan however just smiled and shrugged it off. If she was content with laying there against him, he wasn’t going to bother her. But when he shifted his eyes over to Twilight who was watching him intently. He arched a brow and tilted his head.

“Something you need, Twi?”

“Oh, nothing really. I was just..well...admiring your unbreakable focus when it comes to reading and learning new things when it comes to your craft. It’s something I [i[really like about you.”

He chuckled lightly and closed the book before putting it in his satchel, seeing as the stop was just ahead from out his window.

“It is thanks to my great grandfather’s teachings that I am an accomplished alchemist. The knowledge he left behind is beyond invaluable and was passed down to me. Should I ever have a child and they wish to pursue the same path as I do, I will be passing down that knowledge, along with the new knowledge I obtain from them. It is what my father did for me. But that was only from the books left by my great grandfather since my father took to blacksmithing.”

Twilight listened intently at the little piece of his family history he shared. She wanted to know all she could about him. Not just his kind in general, but Mystogan himself. And she loved what she was hearing. However, the train came to a stop. Mystogan reached down and gently shook the sleeping yellow pegasus to wake her up. She lets out an adorable yawn and looks up at Mystogan with a smile and her still sleepy eyes.

“We are here now, Shy. Nap time is over.”

He said in a teasing manner. Once they got off the train, there was nothing but pure snow for what appeared to be miles. Mystogan walked through it like he was back home with no issues. He opened up his arms as his cloak flowed behind him as he gazed at the enormous mountains off in the distance.

So close to home...but, now isn’t the time.”

Twilight and the others walk up behind him as they gaze at the mountains as well. Rainbow would even have issues flying up there with how high it is and not to mention her wings would probably freeze over as well.

“You live all the way up there…?”

Twilight asks as she walks up next to him while gazing up at what she could see of the mountain top. Mystogan nods in response. He suddenly hears a familiar voice calling out in the blizzard and turns to the approaching figure just as the others do.

“Twilight!”

“Shining Armor?!”

She called out as the figure in the snow approached them all. Mystogan made his way over with them as he gave to nod to Shining.

“Well look at you. You are certainly well equipped to handle the cold, big guy.”

Mystogan chuckled at Shining’s words and patted his chest. Showing off his extra fluff.

“Well, I grew up in the cold. So this is nothing, really.”

They begin to make their way through the blizzard. With Shining leading the way and Mystogan bringing up the rear to make sure that his eyes were on everyone just in case something happens. He even kept his hand on his sword’s hilt just in case of such a thing were to happen.

“Something keeps trying to get into the Empire. We believe it is the unicorn king that originally cursed the place.”

“Ah. So with the return of the empire, Sombra has been trying to reclaim it then?”

“That’s what seems to be happening. You seem to know an awful lot about him.”

Well, the fact that he and his army tried to kill off my kind, he was sure to be remembered by us. But since he has returned, I would love the chance to face him myself.”

Suddenly there was a low, loud howling from within the blizzard. Mystogan was quick to draw his blade, the sound of the blade leaving its sheath was sharp to the ears. The mountain pony was on full alert now.

“T-That’s one of the things isn’t it?!”

Said Fluttershy in a frightened tone, remembering what Shining had said before they started making their trip towards the Empire. Shining turns to the group with a serious look on his face.

“We have to get to the Crystal Empire, NOW!”

Suddenly, behind them appeared a large black smokey cloud with the face of a long-remembered enemy of Mystogan’s kind. His grip on his sword’s hilt tightened as his blood started to boil. And he did not know why. It’s not like he had to deal with Sombra when he was alive. But, the mountain pony wanted him dead in a serious way. While everyone else was running the other way, Mystogan blocked Sombra from following them. Twilight realizing that he was staying behind, she stops and calls out to him, waving her arms frantically. Little did she kn0ow that his eyes were shifting back to that same color as the day the dragon nearly took Fluttershy from them all. Sombra’s and Mystogan’s gaze met. Sombra cracked a wicked grin as he realized just what Mystogan was.

“Hah hah hah haaah, it appears that the ponies that I could not defeat still thrive in this world. What a nuisance. Well, no matter. Once I take back my kingdom, I will make sure to pay that mountaintop of yours a visit with my mindless horde of ponies that I will take under my control once more!”

Mystogan eyes narrowed into a wicked glare as he gets into a battle stance with his blade in hand and another in his void satchel. Intent on ending the king there and now.

“I am going to finish what the princesses could never do. You won’t get the chance to try and terrorize my race again…”

He suddenly screams out in an angered frenzy. His eyes glowing with that same red and amethyst mixture of color.

”I’ll KILL YOU A THOUSAND TIMES OVER!!!”

He suddenly charges forth with a glass vial in his hand which he crushed and through the contents of it towards Sombra. It was a blinding flashbang which was as bright as the purest light.could ever be. Sombra lets out a roar of pain as he shuts his eyes hard. The light even burning away the smokey shadow form that he had taken. Mystogan leaps into the air with his sword ready to run him through but is taken back by the combined magical grip of Twilight and her brother.

“Let me go! Let me go right now damnit! I am going to rip out his fucking heart and mount his head on a trophy display when I get done with him!”

Mystogan, that’s enough, this isn’t the time for this!”

Shouted Twilight as she and her brother continued to pull him away as he struggled against their magic. It was difficult to restrain him as he wanted Sombra dead in a serious way as the blood within him continued to boil over. Eventually, they got to the barrier that separated the empire from the cold of the north. They throw him on the other side as Shining stays behind to keep Sombra busy. Twilight and the others notice Mystogan’s state and pile on top of him trying to calm him down. Just as he was about to strike one of them, he quickly comes back to his senses and drops his sword as his eyes turn back to their normal sky blue.

“What...just happened…?”

“What do you mean ‘What happened?’?! You went berserk!”

Shouted Rainbow as she flailed her arms in the air at the large pony. Mystogan placed a hand on his head as he struggled to remember what happened as it took place so...suddenly. Shining leaps through the barrier finally with what appeared to be black crystal shards sticking out of his horn. Twilight ran over to check on him to make sure he was alright while Mystogan lightly began to push the rest of the girls off of him.

“I am good now. As much as i love to have a pile of mares on top of me, this isn’t the time or place.”

He said as he stood up and turned to look at the empire in the distance. His eyes widen as it was just like the books in his home on top of the mountain held true to its beauty. It was made entirely out of crystal and it shone brightly with the sun’s reflection.

“Sparkleriffic!”

Shouted Pinkie as her and the others gazed upon the kingdom.

“You aren’t kidding...it’s just as the tales were told by my mother and father. The Crystal Empire is truly a sight to behold.”

As they walked through the city that surrounded the castle. All eyes were mostly on the mountain pony. Their expressions changed from depressed to fear-filled at they all started to back away or run into hiding. Mystogan knew exactly why this was the case/ He neglected to tell Twilight and the others they when Sombra tried to take over their mountaintop and his race, they came down and rained death and destruction within the empire as retaliation. Mystogan shifts his eyes to an oncoming chunk of crystal that his quickly catches before it reaches the side of his head. He turns his head to the throw to see a colt glaring up at him with hatred in his eyes.

“Get out of our empire, monster! We don’t want you here!”

There it was, that one word he hated being called. He makes his way towards the colt just as his mother runs up to him and wraps her arms around him in a protective manner with a look of absolute terror on her face as he approached them both.

“Mystogan, don’t!”

Twilight shouted as she started to run toward him. But after seeing that he wasn’t going to harm either of them, she stops. Mystogan looks down at the mother and son with a serious gaze and holds up the chunk of crystal, then breaks it as he balls his hand into a fist.

“You think I am a monster? Your last king as more of a monster than my whole race put together. It is because of him my kind came to this empire and fought. HE brought our wrath upon you. So the fault lies with him. He is the real monster. We were simply proving that you do not mess with the mountain pony race. Besides, that was over a thousand years ago. Things have changed. Hate me and my kind all you want, but it is because of my kind that we diminished his forces greatly. We made it easier for the equestrian forces and the princesses to overthrow him.”

The mare nodded multiple times and drug her son away from him. Mystogan shook his head and returned to the group, Twilight joining him at his side. As they made their way towards the castle, Twilight’s gaze shifted up to his as he stared forward.

“Mystogan...those things you said. Are they true? Your kind came down here and...caused all that?”

There would be no point in lying to you or the others, Twilight. But as I said, that was many, many years ago. And if I get the chance, I will kill that bastard if he finds a way into the empire before we can fix this.”

“I understand how you feel, Mystogan. But learning all this about your kind and their past. Perhaps it wasn’t a good idea for you to have come wi th us. I mean, it’s not that I didn’t want you to come…”

“It’s alright, Twilight. The sooner we finish this, the sooner I can leave these ponies in peace. Let’s hurry up and do what we need to do here.”

He said before they walked into the castle.
> Act 9 The Beast Takes Full Control
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mystogan stood outside of the throne room leaning against the wall to the left of the entrance with his arms crossed and his eyes closed deep in thought. He was reflecting on the encounter before he and the others ran into the safety of the barrier that was keeping Sombra and the heavy snowfall from reaching the empire itself. He lets out a sigh and lowers his hands down to his sides and places his left hand on his sword’s hilt instinctively. He listens to them talking about setting up the ‘Crystal Fair’ to renew the light and love that powered the crystal heart which was a powerful relic of the empire. The mountain stallion, however, was on edge. A feeling ran through his heart that also causes a shiver to venture along his spine. What was this feeling he was getting? It was like something awful was going to happen. Something far worse than what was happening at this moment.


    “We are wasting our time with this…”

    He said to himself as he stood up straight from leaning against the wall. His thoughts turned to the moment he could have ended Sombra out in the blizzard before he was dragged away by Twilight and her brother into the safe dome that covered the empire. He started pacing about trying to figure out why this feeling wouldn’t go away. This feeling of something dark was approaching. And it wasn’t Sombra making his way into the kingdom. It was something far worse…

    “Mystogan, are you alright?”

    Asked Twilight as she and her friends walked out of the throne room. She had a look of genuine concern on her face as she gazed up at him. He was about to tell her what he was feeling at the time, but she already had enough to deal with since she was on a time crunch in setting up the fair for the crystal ponies.

    “I am fine, Twilight. Just can’t sit still knowing my peoples’ enemy is on the doorstep of this empire. If he does make it in here, I will be the first to get to him and kill him in the most brutal way possible.”

    Twilight shudders at the hatred that dripped from his words and at how serious he was. She takes his free hand and shakes her head multiple times.

    “If all goes according to plan, you will not have to do that. Not if I can help it. We will use the power of the crystal ponies to make sure that he never returns again.”

    Mystogan closes his eyes and smiles lightly to Twilight and nods.

    “I hope that will be the case. Or else I fear that things will go far worse than what will transpire within the next few hours.”

    Twilight and her friends run off to go and get things ready. Mystogan makes his way into the large throne room. He approaches both Shining and Cadence who both look up at him with slight concern. His sky blue eyes fall towards Cadence who looks up at him with her tired gaze. Then looks to Shining who kept a close eye on the mountain stallion. He reaches into his void satchel and pulls out a small vial of golden orange liquid. He holds it out to Shining with an open palm.

    “This will help her last a little longer. Is a stamina recovery potion. I can see she is struggling with fatigue and exhaustion. Do not worry, just one sip and it will help her out.”

    They both look at each other, then back to Mystogan.

    “If Twily trusts you, then I see no reason we shouldn’t as well.”

    Said Shining before he opened the vial up and offered it to his wife. She weakly takes the vial and quickly downs the liquid. Within a moment or two, she becomes a bit livelier and less tired looking. She smiles up at Mystogan.

    “Thank you so very much, Mystogan. With this, we will be able to give Twilight more time. It is quite amazing that an alchemist such as yourself came down from the northern mountains. To find out that your kind existed all those years ago…”

    Mystogan walks over to one of the windows of the throne room. He watches the ponies below go about their business. His gaze seemed to be very..thoughtful. As if he was regathering knowledge from his studies as a child. Both of the smaller ponies noticed this expression and called to him.

    “Mystogan..?”

    He turns to them and began to speak to them after letting out a soft sigh.

    “Would you two believe that the mountain and crystal ponies once had good relations long ago far before Sombra came to power? We had trade, festivals we’d share...many, many things like that. But if no other crystal pony remembers this, then it is safe to say that Sombra destroyed the recordings of that history when he ruled here. Most likely, he wanted us to become an enemy in the minds of his slaves. The sad thing is...the crystal ponies knew of my kind’s strength and abilities. But that did not stop them from befriending us, just as we befriended them. Now..it seems like none of them remember because of Sombra. So much for re-establishing ties with them and my kind…”

    He closes his eyes and turns to walk away from the window he stood in front of. He makes his way towards the balcony of the throne room and looks back at Shining and Cadence.

    “I am going to go and find someplace to watch out for any signs of Sombra trying to make his way into the empire. At the first sign of trouble, I shall alert you both.”

    With that, he opens his black wings and takes flight to the highest point of the castle. He lands on top of the very top tower and lands on the roof, unknowingly that the item of great importance is just under his hooves. He simply just stands there and gazes down at the land below, then towards the direction of the northern mountains where he grew up at. He lowers his head and closes his eyes as thoughts of home run through his head.

    ”I miss mom and dad quite a bit. Along with the other friends I made growing up. Maybe...I should return home after this is all over. It’s not like Twilight and the others would miss me anyway. They’d probably forget me after a week or so. Possibly even a shorter time than that. But...I will not let Sombra have his way again. I will kill him with my bare hands if I have to…”

    As time passes by, Mystogan’s ears perk up as he hears what sounds to be thunder. But it wasn’t. The barrier that Cadence had been holding up with ehr magic was starting to fade quickly. He wasted no time in rising up from his crouched position and began his descent. On his way down, however, he spotted something spinning and shimmering in the open room he had been standing above. He blinks before reaching into his void satchel and pulls out what appears to be some kind of grappling hook. He launches it from the gun-like mechanism it rested on and grabbed the floating relic and yanked it back.

    “It’s quite obviously meant for someone to step into the area and become trapped should this item be taken. I am no magic user, but I have read those “Daring Do’ books enough to know. I will just hold onto it for safekeeping for now…”

    He said to himself as he slid it into his void satchel. He resumed making his way down to the ground level where Sombra had already begun terrorizing the citizen of the empire. With a loud thud and a small crater from the impact, Mystogan stared down his enemy with a look of hatred. The shadow king looked back at Mystogan with a wicked smile and chuckled lowly.

    “Well well, we meet again, giant one. You came just in time. I am in need of a mindless drone with strength such as yours. You will serve me well in the retaking of my kingdom. And I shall even make you the general of my army that I will raise to be so strong, that not even the princesses of Equestria will be able to stop me this time!”

    “You are right, Sombra. They will not be stopping you. Because I will be the one to sever your head this day and mount it on my wall as a trophy. History will not repeat itself this time!”

    He suddenly lunged forward with his sword drawn, ready to make this end this fight swiftly. Sombra smiled wickedly and charged forward as well. Just as Mystogan was about to swing his blade, everything around him changed. He was standing in the middle of..ponyville? How was this even possible. He was right there about to take on Sombra! He looks around to find the whole town...on fire! His eyes widen in shock as he looks at all the corpses laid about in front of him. Even the corpses of his family and Twilight with her friends. He staggers back in horror and steps in a puddle of something. He looks down and sees that it is a large puddle of the blood of those before him. Not only that, but his hands are covered in it. He then starts to breathe heavily and quickly. Realizing his was the one who had done this, he grabs at the sides of his head and lets out a cry of despair. His biggest fear realized, being the one to kill those he loved and cared for. There was a sinister chuckle behind him. A grey-furred hand placed itself on his shoulder. Mystogan looked back slowly with tears flowing down his cheek as he saw himself. But his eyes were that usual mix of crimson and amethyst whenever he went berserk., but the whites of his eyes were black.

    “Let me loose, Mystogan...it is the only way to save your mind from Sombra’s dark hold on it. Give me control…”

    “I can’t...you will not stop at just killing him, you will keep going and I will not be able to pull you back. Then this will all happen in reality...all because of me.”

    “But isn’t that a better chance to take than letting him have his way? As we speak, he is getting closer to making you his drone. And he intends to have you kill all those you care about. Accept me, Mystogan. Do it to save your friends. You care about them that much do you not?”

    Mystogan’s gaze turns back to the burning town and the corpses that laid before him. He closes his eyes before looking up at the dark, smoke-filled sky before clenching his fists together, the leather could be heard stretching when he did this indicating this was a hard choice for him to make.

    Mystogan kneeled there in front of Sombra as his mind was being taken over by the dark fear magic that Sombra was well known for. With Twilight and her friends on the ground as they watch Mystogan slowly become consumed by his fear, Sombra laughed loudly as he thought that his victory was assured.

    “You see? Even the mighty mountain pony is no match for my power! Now, none of you will ever dare to defy me once I obtain the crystal heart! I shall return the north, then all of Equestria! And none of y-.”

    Sombra was cut off by a large grey hand gripping of his face. And just like lifting a pillow, Mystogan rose to his hooves and tossed Sombra aside like he was an old worn pillow. He sent him flying into one of the large dark crystals that had sprouted from the ground from his entrance earlier. He lets out a groan of pain as he slides down the crystal with a bit of blood dripping from his maw from the hard impact. All the ponies who laid eyes on Mystogan felt a shiver of fear run down their spines. Even Twilight and the others knew something was wrong at this point. Mystogan’s eyes had changed to that mixture of crimson and amethyst. But the whites of his eyes slowly turned black as if someone had dropped an ink bottle onto a fresh white paper. Not only that, but the veins in his face turned black as well and his teeth became sharper than they already were.

    "SoooommmBRRRAAAAAAAAA!!!" 

Mystogan shouted. It was loud enough for anyone in the area to cover their ears and even make the ground tremble slightly. Without any hesitation, the mountain pony leaps into the air toward the dark unicorn with his right hand reached out. Sombra quickly moves out of the way before Mystogan’s fingers sink into the crystal. The look on Sombra’s face was absolute surprise and worry as he saw Mystogan’s face.

    “So then, you gave the beast complete control all to avoid my mind control? That is quite the risky gamble you took. No matter. I shall make you my slave once4 I have defeated the beast and with no resistance, it will be easy to take over your mind.”

    Mystogan just growled and resumed attempting to grab or punch the shadow king. A few times he came close to doing just that, but he was too quick. This was angering Mystogan even more and he slammed his right hand into the ground. Doing this, a red and blue light formed as crystal spires shot out of the ground and towards Sombra who had not expected this from a pony that wasn’t a unicorn. Then he remembered what exactly some mountain ponies excelled in. Not just alchemy in potions and medicines, but also creating their own ‘structural matrices’ that they can carve into their hands and arms. Mystogan lunges forward with that same hate-filled look in his eyes as he roars a mighty warrior’s roar. He is able to grab ahold of Sombra’s arm. A grip much like the grip of death before those same lights appear again and his arm comes right off, as if it had simply been taken. Not ripped or torn. It took Sombra a moment to realize that his arm had been taken from him before the pain had kicked in. He lets out a cry of pain as he grabbed where the limb used to reside.

    “You will pay for that!”    

    He shouted before shooting a concentrated beam of magic directly into Mystogan’s face. The mountain pony howls in pain and staggers back with a hand covering the now bleeding wound that was his left eye. However, this did not stop him from his rage. He only became angrier with the king. He grabbed his sword that was in the ground beside him and charged forward. He gave a mighty swing downward at Sombra who was able to block it successfully. However, a wicked smile formed on Mystogan’s bloody muzzle as the tip of the blade curved around and stabbed Sombra within his own left eye. The blade pulled out and reformed itself to its natural state leaving the shadow king in a state of pain that was even more unbearable when his arm was taken. Mystogan takes this chance to grab Sombra’s face again and lifts him up in the air.

    “For my kind, die like the maggot you are!”

    He shouted before he squeezed Sombra’s head to the point where there were muffled screams of pain until there was a ‘splatter’ sound. Mystogan had squeezed his head to the point of bursting as blood and brain matter feet to the ground before him and his twitching body soon followed after. Mystogan turned his head to the onlooking ponies with that hate-filled gaze. With his sword still in hand, he begins to advance forward, the tip of his sword dragging along the ground letting out a sinister metal screeching sound.

    “Kill...every...last...pony. Slaughter the weak ones...only mountain ponies are superior…”

    He now stands before Twilight who gazed upon him with absolute fear on her face and in her gaze. Her friends were quick to get to her first and pull her away from him before the large blade was swung down and buried itself into the hard ground. Mystogan pulls the blade from it and starts to advance forward again. But this time, he looks closer at Twilight who was starting to tear up as she gazed at him. He places his bloody hand to the side of his head and lets out a groan of pain and annoyance, it seemed that his real self was starting to fight back the beast within for the right to control.

    “N-no...you will not harm anyone else! Leave my friends alone and go back to sleep!”

    Mystogan fell to his knees as he began to fight back for control of his body and mind. Twilight noticed this right away and broke away from her friends to help the mountain stallion come back. She jumped onto him and wrapped her arms around him as tightly as she could. The unicorn desperate for him to be himself once more.

    “Mystogan, please come back! It’s over now, the fight is over!”

    She cried out. Even with all his thrashing about, Twilight held on for dear life trying to call him back, tears streaming down her face as both she and him tried to get him back in control. After what felt like an eternity, Mystogan finally calmed down and gently wrapped his arms around the small pony and held her close to his form.

    “I..I can’t be here anymore, Twilight...Because of this...I can’t be with you, or any of the others anymore. I do not want to be responsible for taking the lives of you or the others...after we are done here, I am going back home.”

    Those words made the unicorn’s heart drop and her friends gasp. Was he really going to leave because of this? To him, it seemed like he did something that wasn’t beyond his control, but Twilight knew better as she knew he’d be beating himself up about this for many times to come...
> Act 10: I Won't Let You Leave!
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It was just after sunset at Canterlot Castle. Mystogan had returned from the Crystal Empire before the others by leaving the same night the events happened. He did not take the train, he simply flew there. Let time for him to travel and more time for Twilight to not be able to try and stop him from leaving. The mountain stallion walked down the corridor as the guard lead him directly to Celestia’s study where both she and Luna were doing some pleasurable reading. Mystogan opened the door and stepped in. His eyes looking down at the princesses in a rather slightly saddened state.

“What has happened, Mystogan? The Empire is safe once more. Is this not a time of celebration?”

Asked Celestia as she and her sister stood up with concern on their faces. Thankfully that wasn’t the case. But the faces went from concerned to sadness as well from his next words.

“The empire is safe. Everypony is safe. But how long will that last when somepony like me is around? I think...it is time I went back to the mountains.”

Celestia places a hand over her muzzle as she seemed to figure out what Mystogan was talking about. She approaches him and places a hand on his right arm comfortingly. She could see why something like this would upset the mountain stallion.

“You can’t let this fear rule your life, Mystogan. It doesn’t matter if you found out about it or not. It was bound to happen eventually. But you are strong. You fought against it and controlled it. And if you left now, I can tell you that a very specific group of ponies would be very upset with you should you just up and leave without even saying goodbye. And you know as well as I do that one of those fillies would be absolutely heartbroken above all of them.”

Mystogan simply turned his back towards Celestia and Luna. He simply glances back to them with a half-hearted smile.

“If it means I have to give up my happiness to keep her and every other pony safe from me, I will return home without any regrets holding me back. But before I take my leave, I want both of you to know I am grateful for you tolerating my presence here when you didn’t have to. Feel free to sell my home or something. I won’t need it anymore.”

Celestia simply crossed her arms in a stance of defiance as Mystogan began to make his way out of the throne room. All she said was.

“No, you will not be leaving. Because I know you won’t make that young mare cry because you are too selfish to let her and her friends help you. You may be an alchemist, but even Guren wasn’t as cold hearted as you are trying to be.”

Mystogan stops for a moment before throwing his hood over his head.

“Thank you, princesses. For the opportunity, you have given me for my kind.”

He said as he walked out of the room, leaving the two princesses to converse among themselves.

“Sister, how do you know that he won’t leave? He seemed pretty convinced that he is truly a monster that cannot mix in with other ponies.”

“You used to feel the same when you returned. Did you not, Luna? And yet those very same ponies befriended you and showed everyone else that the monster inside you is no more. You are their beloved princess of the night. No longer the one called Nightmare Moon.”

“But sister, the monster inside of him is something that cannot be diminished or removed. You know as well as I that this is something deep within the genetics of the mountain ponies. While they may be a peaceful bunch now, Mystogan has proven that they could very well reawaken that same side that many have feared in the past long ago.”

Celestia lowers her gaze to the ground and rubbed the side of her right arm, a look of hope coming across her face before her next words.

“That is why I hope that Twilight and her friends can help Mystogan with his fear of which he struggles against. Believe me, Guren struggled with the very same thing when he was alive. But he didn’t bottle it up like a fool and shoulder the burden without friends...and me.”

“You know you cannot compare somepony of the current generation to another from that time. Not to mention, he is a young stallion. The youth of today think they can take on the world on their own.”

Celestia sighs softly as her and her sister looks outside one of the windows of the throne room.

“All we can do is hope that Twilight and her friends can stop him before he makes the mistake of leaving. More regret is the last thing that young stallion needs right now…”

Back at Mystogan’s house, the stallion was starting to pack up everything he owned into that special void satchel of his. He was doing his best to get everything quickly before Twilight and the others came to try and stop him. Fortunately for Twilight and the others, they made it back on time and immediately made for Mystogan’s home. He was about to head down into his alchemy lab when the front door flew open and slammed into the wall behind it. Twilight and her friends came piling inside and Applejack kicked the door closed behind them and locked the door.

“And just where do you think you’re goin’?”

The farm pony said as she crossed her arms with a look of disapproval on her face. Mystogan sighed and closed his lab door to face the group.

“I had hoped to be packed up and gone before you six got here. No matter though. I have plenty of hidden exits in this home. Now if you will all excuse me, I need to finish up packing my things.”

“Oh darling, you don’t need to leave just because of what happened back at the empire. You did what you had to make sure that Sombra never returned. Sure it was a bit...bloody and disgusting. But I know that he will no longer return!”

Said Rarity trying to help with the situation. Mystogan’s gaze shifted back to the group and focused in on Dash who suddenly flies up in his face and pokes his chest with a finger multiple times.

“You aren’t going anywhere, bub. There are six of us and only one of you.”

“Funny, one of the ponies who called me a monster and wanted me gone is trying to get me to stay. Don’t even get started with me, little filly. You and many others are finally getting your wish. Besides, if I wanted to, I could toss all of you about like ragdolls. The only one here who would have little chance of stopping me would be Applejack. Now, if you’d all be kind enough to leave. I don’t need this to be any harder than it is already.”

“B-But you can’t leave! I haven’t gotten to throw you one birthday party yet! With cake and ice cream! And lots of ponies!”

“Pinkie, I don’t really like parties anyway. I am the type of pony who enjoys staying home in his lab and conducting experiments. Sorry.”

He wasn’t telling the truth on that matter actually. The first party she had thrown for him, he was enjoying himself. Especially with all the other ponies the party had. But those very words made Pinkie’s mane suddenly fall flat and her expression saddened. Mystogan opened his lab door started making his way below. He suddenly felt a hand grab at his cloak which makes him turn his head. He gazes down at the yellow pegasus who looked like she was on the verge of tears.

“Why are you so sad about it? I figured you’d be happy about it the most. Your little animal friends don’t have to worry about becoming subjects for my experiments anymore. Plus you seem scared of me the most.”

Fluttershy wanted to say something, anything to prevent him from leaving. But he was right, she was afraid of him. And that comment about her animal friends only made her shudder in disgust. But still, she knew why he was saying all these things. They all knew. His cruel words and cold attitude were all a plan to make them remember him as a mean mountain pony who didn’t care for any of them. Mystogan pulls his cloak away from Fluttershy who falls to her knees and begins to sob quietly. Twilight had enough of this. She follows him down into his lab and teleports in front of her with a gurt and angered filled expression on her face. That face is what Mystogan did not want to see.

“I know what you are doing, Mystogan. You want us all to think you didn’t care and that is why you are acting this way. You are wanting to make it easier on yourself to leave by leaving us with this...this image of you that is cruel. But I know that isn’t who you are! Why can’t you understand that I want to help you?!”

Mystogan lightly pushes her aside and continues to walk toward his alchemy station.

“You can’t help me, Twilight. No amount of magic can suppress what has been bred for generations. I won’t lie in saying I enjoyed my time with all of you. But I will not let myself be the one responsible for yours or their death.”

“You made Fluttershy cry up there. Is that what you really want out of this..? To have us think of you when you leave?”

“If it helps you forget about me more easily, then yes.”

“And what about the promise you made me? You said you’d teach me all you could about alchemy. How are you going to keep that promise by returning home? You are going to break that promise?”

Mystogan didn’t say anything after that. She caught him in a corner now. If it’s one thing mountain ponies struggled with, it’s that it is VERY hard for them to break a promise. He looked between the door and his alchemy supplies. He had plenty of money to restock. With one quick movement, his turns on his hoof and starts running up the stairs. Twilight was hot on his hooves as she followed him. He bursts through the door and smashes his way through the front which was locked. They all knew what was happening now. Applejack and Dash were the first to give chase with the others following close behind them. Mystogan began to flap his wings to get airborne, but Dash and Applejack were quick to catch up to him and leap onto his back to hold him and his wings down from at least being able to fly. However, they bounced around wildly as he kept on running from the others.

“Get off me!”

He shouted as he tried to shake them off.

“Aint gonna happen!”

“There’s no way you are getting outta here that easily!”

He continues to try and shake them off while running through the town. He suddenly lifts a mask up around his muzzle and stops before pulling out a small vial that held a soft blue smoke in it. He throws it to the groundbreaking it and with a loud ‘poof’ the smoke engulfs the three of them. Dash and Applejack become drowsy and hold onto him for as long as possible before giving in to slumber. Mystogan flaps his wings once more to make another attempt to fly away. But suddenly, his wings become encoded with a deep pink magical aura. He looks over to see Twilight’s horn glowing with magic.

“Please, Mystogan! Don’t leave us! Don’t leave me! You promised!”

Mystogan struggled against Twilight’s magic. He reaches for his satchel to throw another vial of the same kind of sleeping smoke he had used before. But he did not feel it there. He watches it float away from him in a light blue aura and lets out a low growl of annoyance while huffing from his nostrils.

“Give it back, Rarity. I won’t ask again…”

She grabs the bag and holds onto it in a defensive posture, her expression now the same as Twilight’’s was before.

“No..you aren’t getting this back until we find a solution to this!”

Mystogan stomps his large hoof into the ground and narrows his eyes in slight anger.

“You are really going to make me do this, aren’t you?”

“W-what do you-..”

Mystogan suddenly charges forward toward the white unicorn. Twilight may have stopped his wings from working, but she didn’t stop the rest of him. Rarity’s eyes widen in fear as she saw him approaching her in a hostile manner with a hand reached out towards her. She wanted to run, but her fear had frozen her in place. Mystogan’s large hand was now on Rarity’s shoulder. Thinking the worst was about to happen, she closes her eyes tightly and releases the satchel from her grasp. However, it did not hit the ground. Mystogan grabbed it with his free hand and released his other upon Rarity’s shoulder. He then turns away from her and the others.

“You think I’d intentionally hurt you? This is all the more reason why I can’t be here, Twilight. Now let go of my wings. I will walk out of here if I have to.”

Rarity fell to her knees with her hands on her chest which felt like it was going to explode at any minute. Mystogan turns back around to start walking when suddenly there was a blinding burst of light in front of the stallion. Then suddenly the feeling of arms being wrapped around his neck and the softness of a female form pressing against him was definitely made known. Once he could see again, he looks down to see Twilight’s eyes flowing with tears. This is not what he wanted to see at all. The whole reason he had left before any other pony knew he was gone from the empire before. But here he was with her clinging to him for dear life now with tears flowing down her cheeks like a river.

“Please, Mystogan..please! Let us help you! Is it so hard to believe that we care about you?! We want to help you, I want to help you! Even if the others are afraid of you, I am not! I love coming to see you and spending time with you in your lab! You..you are the first pony in forever that I can truly relate to and have so much in common with...please don’t leave and deprive me of that wonderful feeling!”

Mystogan’s heart was beginning to give in to the sadness in Twilight’s voice along with her painful expression. All he could do was lower himself onto his knees and gently cup her cheeks in his hands in a gentle manner. He closes his eyes and opens them up with a sad gaze of his own.

“You think I want to leave, Twilight? That I do not care about you or the others? I am leaving because I do care. I care about every single one of you. And the thought of me being the one to hurt any of you is too much for me to think about. You brought me back from the brink of genocide before it took hold. But what makes you think you can do it again should it try to take my mind once more?”

Twilight takes hold of one of his wrists with both of her hands and wraps her arms around one of his own after that. Her sobbing still present in her words as she spoke them.

“I know that we can be there for you, Mystogan. Because we all want to be. We know that you are a kind, protective and proud stallion who has a monster that cannot be removed from him. But we can be there for you to help you be yourself again should it ever come out again. My friends and I are the element bearers after all. And you won’t know if you decide to run away from this...from us if you don’t let us help you. I am begging you...please don’t leave…”

Mystogan thinks back on Celestia’s words from earlier that day. It would appear that she was right after all. They did care about him quite a bit, Twilight especially so. Mystogan gazes down at the ground for a moment before lifting his head back up to gaze into Twilight’s eyes. He brings his thumbs to ehr cheeks and wipes away her tears with them. Twilight still holds onto his arm with a hope-filled gaze in her eyes.

“Very well. I will not leave this place. I will keep it as my home. But I still have a job to do for my own kind. But Twilight, I want you to promise me this.”

“Wh-what..?”

“Should I ever lose control, and there is no way to bring me back. You are to end my life or find someone who will do it for you. As I said, I will not be the one to take your life or even bring any kind of harm onto you.”

She shakes her head multiple times quickly and presses her body against him.

“I will not allow you to slip that far. I will use every ounce of my magic to make sure that doesn't happen…”
> Act 11: The Herbal Mixture Mishap
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

It has been a few days ever since Mystogan tried to depart from his friends in order to save himself the heartache that he may or may not have to face down the road of his life. But with Twilight’s and her friends’ actions and words. The stallion couldn’t fight against them or his emotions and what he truly wanted. To be able to stay with them and keep this place as his new home.

The stallion makes his way out of his home with a rather large sack in his right hand. He had been contracted with creating an herbal mixture for the spa bath. Normally, the only things he’d create were either poisons or potions. But it has been quite a long time since anyone has asked of him to make herbal mixtures. Of course, he was only too happy to do it. After all, they are paying him a hefty sum. Once Mystogan locks his door, he begins to make his way onward to the spa with their order in hand.

On his way there, he bumped into Rarity who was actually on her way there to get her ‘usual’. They began to make small talk about what was happening during their day. When she finally took notice of the bag in his hand, a smile of excitement formed across her muzzle. Ever since he had mentioned the mixture to the spa ponies, they have been telling their usual customers about what was going to be coming to the spa soon. And Rarity was certainly ready for it.

“Are those..what I think they are~?”

Mystogan chuckled lowly and nodded while shaking the bag a little to heighten the fashionista’s excitement slightly

“Yes, these are the mixtures I have made for the large bath for the spa. I think you of all mares...and some stallions will appreciate this mix. It will bring your fur to a brilliant shine and make it as soft as silk. And it provides a tingling sensation to the flesh beneath it. You will feel completely rejuvenated by it, I am sure.”

“Ooh, I can hardly wait, dear! Come, let us hurry so that we may get to enjoy your creation!”

She said as she grabbed at his free hand and dragged him along. Mystogan simply pretended to be dragged alongi with her, knowing full well the poor mare couldn’t really make him budge. Plus, he knew she was excited to try his mixture. Little did the stallion know that he was about to create an extremely sizable problem for the population. Namely the male population of the town.

Once Mystogan and Rarity made it to the spa, he opened up the door for her and allowed her to go in first. The sister’s Lotus and Aloe stop in the hooftracks to see her come in and greet her as they usually would. But then As Mystogan ducks to get into the door, his shadow looms over the three of them and they give a look of surprise at first, but then smile to their contracted alchemist. Lotus walks up to him and sees the bag in his right hand and smiles even wider.

“Ah! This must be the new herbal mixture that you have made for us! We are expecting quite a few mares today because of this. Here is your payment!”

She says as she takes the bag from him and holds out the money to him. But he declined it with a hand held up in front of him.

“This is an experimental mixture. I don’t want to take your money just in case something goes wrong. Give it a trial run for today. And if you and the customers like it. I will take the payment and will continue to supply it to you. But, I think you better hurry. Rarity looks like she is going to burst if you don’t start using it now. I will return tomorrow and ask you for the results. In the meantime, I have another delivery to make. A rather...discret product for a store that sells…’ enhancements’ for couples..”

Lotus’ cheeks turned bright red as she covered her muzzle with her right hand, a small giggle coming from her.

“Perhaps I should visit that store myself then~.”

She said in a rather flirtatious manner. She gave him a wink before making her way to stock the empty space on the shelf behind the counter up front. He waves to them all before making his way towards the exit.

“Oh darling! You should stay and enjoy yourself. You always look so tense. I’d be more than happy to cover you this time around! My treat!”

Mystogan gave a half smile and shook his head.

“It is sweet of you to offer. But this kind of stuff isn’t suited to me. But please, enjoy yourself. I need to get back home and work on a few things after this last delivery. You enjoy yourself.”

He said as he finally makes his way out of the door. Soon enough, things were going to get out of hand. And with how many mares go through there a day, it is going to be one hell of a day.

--Five Hours Later--

Mystogan was in the underground of his home writing in an empty book that he had made for his notes. He seemed focused in what he was doing, his eyes narrowed and his concentration solely on his work until he heard what sounded like screams of horror and the sounds of hoofsteps running past the small window of his underground lab. He walks up to the window to see what was going on and tries to listen for what in Equestria was going on.

“RUN! THEY ARE ALL IN SEASON! IT’S EVERY STALLION FOR HIMSELF!!!”

Shouted one of them as they ran past. Mystogan’s ears perked up as the fleeing stallion said ‘in season’. And from what he could see, stallions were being tackled to the ground by mares who had a massively heated blush across their muzzles with the look of sheer lust in their eyes. Female pegasi dive-bombing their male prey and scooping them up from the ground to take them to Celestia knows where. As he continued to watch, he noticed both the spa sisters and Rarity with the same expression on their faces as they tried to grab whatever male they could and drag them off at their mercy. It finally hit him as to what was going on.

“Oh...fuck. I couldn’t have…”

His eyes widen at the chaos he had just created. Discord would be smiling upon him right now.

“This..this is bad. Who knows how many mares have gone the spa today…”

His ears perk again when he hears pounding at his door. The sound of multiple bodies slamming against the door and fists knocking as well. Mystogan makes his way upstairs from his lab and listens quietly as he makes his way to his door and quickly slams the heavy steel sliding locks in place. Thankfully, his windows were too small for anyone to make their way through. From what he could tell, the possible intruders were female with how they were panting, not to mention their scent was strong, VERY strong.

“Myyyyst~. We know you are in there, darling. Why don’t you come on out and keep us some company? Or we can come in there. Whatever you prefer, handsome~!”

There was no mistaking that posh tone of voice. Rarity and a few others have cornered him in his home. And he knew that all this was his fault because he grabbed the wrong bags for the wrong ponies. He couldn’t waste any more time than he already had. If this sudden surge of heat was his doing, he had to disappear for at least until tomorrow morning. He thinks fast on his hooves and makes quite the noise running down to his lab and locking the door there as well and even pulling down the secret metal gate he installed for something as grave as this.

He makes his way over to one of his bookshelves and reaches up to pull at one of the books to reveal a secret exit. However, his plans for escape were foiled when a flash of light filled his lab. And the color of the magic was all too familiar. It was the lavender unicorn, Twilight Sparkle. And that same face the others had was on her features as well.

“M-Mystogan...please. This heat is unbearable! M-my estrus cycle isn't for another six months! I need help...I need you…”

She said with a mixture of both lust and desperation formed in her eyes. The smell of the unicorn’s heat filled his nose as she slowly approached him. He could see her chest heaving up and down as she panted heavily as she inched to him.

“Twilight..you need to regain your senses. You are under the influence of a stupid mistake I did. You really don’t want this...not from me. Just try and fight it and I can whip up something to cure you of this. Just fight it a little longer…”

He said as he put his hands out in front of him to stop her should she get any ideas of tackling him down. Not that she really could anyway, but still. She suddenly leaps at him but doesn’t jump onto him. She takes hold of his ample chest fluff into her hands and continues to look up at him with what little self-control she has left.

“Mystogan...do you not like me..? H-have I done something wrong to you that would make you push me far away? Because...I want to be closer to you...I don’t care if this is your fault or not. I want you and I need you.”

Mystogan lightly places his hands around her upper arms and shakes his head.

“No Twilight, that is the love and lust potion talking. You truly could feel something like that for a pony like me. Your mind is clouded right now…”

Mystogan’s works seemed to not reach Twilight as she pushed herself against him as she climbed up his form to get to eye level with him. His soft body pressing against his chest and her gaze met his own. He could see the lust in her eyes growing slowly. But it seemed that love was growing more quickly than the lust. And he remembers that in his research if the emotion of love was already present in the subject, it would certainly boost the acceleration of that existing emotion. She cradles his jaw into her hands and locks gazes with him. An expression mixed with both love and seriousness on her face. Mystogan gulped hard at this expression of hers.

“It hasn’t clouded my mind at all. If anything, it has shown my feelings for you even better than I ever could. With everything that has been going on with you and my own plate of things I have been doing, I got nervous in telling you how I feel. Please believe me, Mystogan…”

He averts his eyes to the ground away from her. Could this really be true of how she felt towards him and not just the potion talking? He wasn’t sure what to believe. He needed to get out of this situation regardless. While she was distracted, he reaches over to the table beside him and grabbed a needle which held a sleeping serum within its container. He was careful to not hurt her when he injected it into the back of her neck as a frown formed on his face.

“I am sorry, Twilight...but until I hear you say this while you are not under the influence of this potion, I cannot say I feel the same or help you with your physical need…”

Twilight’s eyes widen as she felt the need sink into her neck. Her vision goes fuzzy as her grip on him weakens and her eyes become extremely heavy.

“But I..I lo..love…”

He makes sure that the unicorn falls into his arms as she is induced into sleep. He sighs and makes his way over to the bed he keeps for medical reasons and lays her down on it gently. He looks down at her before turning away from her.

“When you tell me that with your own words, then I will believe you. You and I are safe down here. And the sleeping serum will last for the remainder of the potion’s effects. So rest up, and I will apologize once you wake up.”

With that, he went back to working on his other projects, filling out his notes in the empty book he had been working with earlier. As he worked, he could hear Twilight mumbling in her sleep as she rolled over on occasion. He could hear her say his name over and over with a smile on her muzzle. He quickly gazed away from her and back to his work the only sounds that could be heard were the scribbling sounds of his writing, the crackling of the fire from the torches that lit the room and Twilight’s light snoring. Every now and then, he’d hear the sounds of hoofsteps running past his small window from his lab. He was certainly going to have a lot of explaining to do once all this subsided.

--A few Hours Later--

Mystogan heard the sound of magic gathering in the middle of the room and a bright golden light flashes. He knew exactly who was teleporting into his lab and closes the book before standing up and turning to see Celestia approaching him with a rather displeased look on her face and her arms crossed under her ample bust. The mountain stallion knew what was coming and he was prepared for it.

“Ah, I see the sun has set, finally have time to come assess the situation?”

“Don’t talk of this situation so light-heartedly, Mystogan. Do you understand what has happened here all this afternoon and this evening? Mares are rampaging through the town with uncontrollable heat, jumping every stallion they come across! I don’t know what it’s like up in the mountains, but the gender ratio is extremely off-balance here in the lands below your home! And not to mention all the mares who will become mothers from this! The hospital wi-!”

“You need to calm down, Princess. First off, there will be no involuntary mothers from this accident. The potion is for lust only. To spice up the love life of a mare and her lover. For the duration of the potion, it makes the mare unbreedable so they both her and her partner can enjoy their intimacy without the worry of a child. Besides, it’s not like every mare in town when there today...right? Besides, it’s not like I planned for this. I made a simple mistake in deliveries is all. Besides, only thirty more minutes before it all wears off.

Celestia didn’t really expect Mystogan to have a full explanation on hand right away. She was less angry with him now, even almost relieved. But she was a mare after all. They want to feel their anger is justified.

“I Don’t understand how this could affect so many mares at the same time…”

And of course, Mystogan had the answer to that as well.

“Well, it’s rather simple. The herbal bath mixture was the intended delivery for the spa’s large bath. However, I accidentally handed off the potion I made for the adult shop across town and the hot water created a vapor-like steam when ingested must have taken effect. Luckily, it only works on mares, otherwise, it could have been a lot worse. Your student was taken hold by it as well. But a quick sleep serum into her bloodstream calmed her down. She is resting soundly on the bed over there.”

Celestia looked over to her student and approached her, looking her over before looking back at him.

“Did you-.”

“No, I would never take advantage of a mare under such influence. I want her to be fully aware of what she is doing before she makes that possible mistake.”

“What do you mean by ‘mistake’?”

Mystogan holds his arms out to his sides. Emphasizing his appearance.

“You know exactly why it would be a mistake. You know the issues I have. Not to mention a fully grown mare down here wouldn’t be able to handle the mating process that mountain mares can. And above all, how I get out of control and do the worst. I won’t be able to live with myself. I am already taking a risk by remaining here because of Twilight’s feelings. The last thing I want to do is hurt her. I care greatly for the young mare…”

He said as he walked back over to his table and places his hands on it as he leans forward. Celestia looks over at her sleeping student before walking to his side. But little did they both know, Twilight was awake and listening to Mystogan’s word. It made her sad that he felt like he was a burden to her. It appears that even with how she talked him out of leaving, he still sees himself as a negative force to her. She had to do something about this. Anything she could think of. Her determination to make him happy was now higher than ever before. And she wasn’t going to give up on him. Not now, not ever.
> Act 12: Mystogan Hangs Around Town
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mystogan sat in his study with a book in his hand. The custom made armchair to hand his size brought him comfort in his reading time. With glasses resting on his muzzle, he’d turn the page every now and then to progress further in the to me he was reading as the fireplace crackled with burning wood he had gathered just within the Everfree forest. There was nothing like a nice fire and a good book while relaxing in one’s favorite chair. The book he was reading was called ‘The Alchemist’s Cookbook’. He read these kinds of books for both pleasure and knowledge. As all alchemists know, when an alchemist makes a cookbook, it usually means their true works are coded. One example is ‘green tea’ is code for limestone.

As he sat there with his cheek resting on his fist, he sighs and closes the book after placing a bookmark upon the page he had left off. He stands up and slides on other of his shirts before heading up towards the main floor. He grabs his house key and a small bag of bits from a small chest that he keeps his spending money in and grabs his sword, slinging it over his back. He makes his way out of the house before locking the door behind him. He turns and feels the wonderful flow of cool, crisp fall air upon his face and through his mane. He lets out a soft sigh and smiles to himself.

“Aaah,now this is weather I can get used to year round. Not too hot or too cold.”

He makes his way into town to go and see what everyone was doing on a nice day like today. And who should he run into first who recognizes him? Why Pinkie Pie of course. With an exaggerated wave and a full on sprint towards the giant, she wraps her arms around his waist as she leaps at him with a tight hug, nuzzling her cheek into his torso. She ran so fast, that the dirt cloud she left behind had only just started to disperse.

“Hey there, big guy! It’s not often we get to see you wandering outside unless it’s for work! Good to see you nonetheless!”

She said before finally releasing him and looking up at him with her big blue eyes, her tail wagging ninety miles an hour at how happy she was to see him out and about. Mystogan just flashed her a smile and nodded as he watched to ponies go about their business, doing their day to day activities and jobs. He then noticed that Pinkie had left quite a hefty stack of boxes just a bit a ways from them. He walked over to the boxes and picked all of them up in one of his arms and walked back to her side.

“Making a few deliveries? I’d be happy to help carry them for you. I got nothing to do today anyway.”

She gasps and looks up at him with thankful eyes. Bouncing up and down excitedly which made certain parts of her bounce and jiggle. And Mystogan’s eyes fell upon those very parts.

“You’d really do that for me?! Are you sure that it is no trouble??”

He shook his head lightly and smiled a quick smile. Effortlessly carrying the multiple boxes of sweet in his arm as he reassured the energetic mare. After which, they set off to go and deliver the goods to the ponies that had made their delivery orders, collected the bits, and returned to Sugarcube Corner. She stood in front of him with a very happy and grateful expression on her face.

“Hey Myst, lean down for a moment, I got a surprise I want to give you~. But you need to close your eyes when you do!”

He blinked a few times and did as she said. She then took hold of his jaw in both her hands and plants a kiss upon his lips before pulling back with a heavy blush upon her face. She let out an adorable giggles before heading inside.

“Thanks, big guy~. Perhaps you can help me bake next time!”

With that, she ran inside the bakery to get started on her next project, leaving the stallion blinking a few times before shaking himself back to reality. He sighed, but was happy with the surprise he was given. Soon, he made his way off again to go and find something else to occupy his time with.

“She’s a sweet mare. I just hope she doesn’t let others take advantage over that. Both her and Flluttershy have such open kindness which could get them in some serious trouble.”

He said as he made his way further out of town. Once he was on the outskirts, A rainbow flash zips around him before Rainbow Dash lands in front of him with one of her usual over to top entrances. Mystogan crosses his arms in defiance showing that he isn’t so easily impressed. Or maybe it was simply because he liked to tease ponies who thought that just because they had some talent they think it’s the best thing since sliced bread.

He noticed that she was in exercise gear. Tight black and white gym shorts and top covered slightly in sweat from her work out. She smiled up at him before approaching him and lightly punching him in the stomach, since she really couldn’t reach much else without taking flight.

“Well look who decided to come outside today! When are ya gonna give up being a nerd and put those muscles and wings of yours to good use?! You’d make an amazing guard!”

“Well Dash, alchemy is more than just reading and studying. It gives me the advantage to create spells from items and ingredients that a unicorn could normally cast. So while I am limited to the amount of times I can use those abilities, I also got my flight and strength. So one could say I am well versed in all three area. Unlike you who only masters in flight~.”

He said before taking one of her wings and playfully tugging on one of them. She blushes from the contact but quickly slaps his hand away from the wing and scoffs at him which made the larger pony chuckle.

“H-Heeyy! Leave my wings alone!”

Mystogan chuckled lowly and released her wings before flaring his up to show them off. He even went as far as crossing his arms to act intimidating. Not that he needed to act it.Dash’s face was in awe for a moment before she shook her head a few times to get out of the visual spell he had placed upon her.

“THESE are wings, small pegasus. Sure, you are faster than I am. But I can reach far greater heights than you and possess greater stamina in both my wings and body. A small streamline mare like yourself would never be able to climb the mountain of which I come from. The subzero temperatures will freeze those little wings off.”

Dash growled lowly in her throat as she glared at him and threw her hands up at him. Apparently with him teasing her about her size and ability sat her off and she flew right up into his face to get to eye level with him. A smile slowly formed from his muzzle, those sharp pearly whites gleaming. She bought it.

“Oh yeah?! How about we take this up in the air and see who can outlast who?! Size isn’t everything you know!”

“Oh yeah? Well since you challenged me, we are going to put you to the test by MY kind’s standards. We are going to stand in front of each other a distance apart and maintain flying sideways in a circle.If yo0u can hold form like that longer than I can. Then you have far better control and stamina than I do.”

Not even thinking, the mare took him up on the rules and poked his chest as she still glared at him. It was clear that the mare was steaming from his words before. But, at the same time she knew he didn’t mean it in a harsh way. It got her pumped, though.

“You’re on! I am gonna make you eat those words you big fluffball!”

Dash stared at Mystogan with a determined glare while his stood there with his arms crossed. He raises a hand above his head before swinging it straight back down to signal the beginning of the challenge. After that, they both leap hard into the air in opposite directions and start to circle in that area which already started to cause  a slight whirlwind. They got to a high enough point to where they could hit anyone or anything and maintained that altitude as they circled. Mystogan’s wings carried him just as easily as Dash’s did hers. However, Mystogan picked up the pace which cause the inside of the whirlwind they were in to start pulling at Dash’s much smaller wings. It seemed that due to his sheer size and the gale force of his wings, the smaller mare was already struggling to keep up with the larger mountain pony.As they maintained their speed and rotation, clouds began to swirl closer to them and darken with how quickly they came together. Rain started hitting against their bodies as it seemed neither of the two were ready to give up. The thunder clapped and lightning flashed as they were now rotating within the gathered storm clouds that they had unintentionally brought together. Thankfully both weren’t enough to start a tornado, but in that open field, a rainstorm raged. Ponies from the town took notice of the storm that the two had created and wondered just how in Equestria could a storm gathered up in one spot like that.

“Looks like you are struggling pretty hard there, Small one. You better give up before you get hurt!”

“No way! I won’t lose! I am the best flyer in all of Equestria! I can beat your stupid challenge!”

She yelled back at him. He could see that she was struggling to keep up with him now that the clouds had become so thick as they pulled in more and more with their rotation, the lightning becoming more and more frequent nearly striking them both had they not been mindful of it. This went on for a few minutes longer until Dash felt her wings being pulled out from the sheer force and her whole body was flung out of control. She lets out a scream of terror as she is flung into the thick of the storm, but feels her body slam into Mystogan’s. He wraps his arms around her and flies them both out of the storm. But not before bottling up some of the storm in his magic alchemy bottles on his way out with his other hand.

Mystogan flew both of them to safety away from the storm to a drier part of the field and carefully sat her on the ground before licking his wet mane back to keep it out of his face as it dried. He lets out a laugh and places the bottles he had used into his satchel. He returned his gaze down at Dash who was now soaked through her fur. And those workout clothes clung to her body now more than ever from all the rain that had pelted her form. He knelt down on one knee to make sure that she hadn’t broken her wings from such an exercise. Looking over them carefully, he saw nothing was broken or injured. But she was certainly out of breath as she laid there heavily breathing. But then she just lets out a laugh and a big smile as she spoke.

“That was so much fun! I have flown many many different ways. But not like that! And I can’t believe that you and I gathered a storm together like that! It was aaaawweesooooooome!!”

“Well, sure. You can fly in a circle in a normal flight position. But constantly drifting in a circle while in flight is a whole other critter, Dash. It is how we excel in flight combat. Think of the circle as if it were the ring. And you maintain that circle while fighting your opponent. Should either of you fail to maintain that circle, it could mean lose or even death should your opponent not be so merciful to spare your life. Once your enemy has you in the circle, we have a technique called ‘slicing the pie’. Where we use the momentum of the circle to attack forward and keep spinning, then attack again and spin again. Rinse and repeat. I just wanted to test your stability and see if you can handle such a thing. I had no idea that we’d summon up a storm, however…”

After hanging out with Rainbow Dash a bit longer, they both go their own separate ways. Mystogan was now on the outer edges of Ponyville heading straight into the Everfree forest. He figured while he was out, he’d collect more herbs and plants for his work. An alchemist can never have too many ingredients. He makes his way deep within the forest with his hand on the hilt of his blade ready to go on the defensive and then offensive if it came down to it.

As he walked through the darkened forest, the sound of the wind flowing through the leaves and the sound of the creatures in the woods brought a sense of calmness to the mountain pony. If it one thing he never did when he came in here it was to admire the surrounding lush green and the sunbeams that peaked through the thick canapea. Ity seemed that taking in the area brought him upon one of the large pools of water that were spread about in the forest. And in front of it, balancing on a stick with their head was a familiar zebra. Mystogan smiled as he quietly…or rather as quietly as possible he approached her and leaned against a tree to watch her concentrate on what he assumed was a form of meditation. He admired her form from where he stood. She was so fit but also had plenty of soft curves in the right spots. The sweat glistened from the sunbeams that peaked through. Her body glimmered beautifully in the light as she focused so intently. Though he had been watching her for quite some time, he lightly cleared his throat to get her attention so as to not startle her and cause her injury. She opened up her eyes to see who was standing before her. Her eyes blinked a few times before she spoke.

“Oh my...do my eyes see true? Mystogan, is that you...?”

He shook his head as she rhymed at him again. Having told her that she doesn’t have to always speak to him in such a way. But he nodded as he greeted her with a warm smile and open arms. Knowing full well to expect a hug from her.

“It has been far too long, Zecora. I have missed your company for quite some time.”

The zebra was quick to take herself off her perch and lunged at the mountain pony, wrapping her arms around his torso and squeezed as hard as she could with a hug. Her tail flagged happily behind her as she looked up at him with those beautiful blue eyes of hers.

“Oh my sweet giant, it has been far too long indeed. Have you come searching for something in the forest that you need?”

He shook his head and gently placed a hand upon her head, petting her in an affectionate manner. The happiness apparent in her eyes as he does this for her. Which only made her press into him hard and hug even tighter.

“Well then, you most certainly have to come by my little hut and visit with me.That is, if you have no other place to be…”

She looked up at him with hope in her eyes. He really didn’t have anywhere to go. And he couldn’t say no with that face she was making up at him. So he shook his head and gently took her hand into his much larger one. This made her gasp slightly, but her tail wagged again to show that she didn’t mind this.

“Sounds good. And as I said before, Zecora. You don’t have to rhyme around me. You are perfectly fine with just regular talking. But I don’t mind you doing it every now and then. It’s cute.”

“Oh...I can feel the blood rushing to my face. Let us make haste and head to my place~.”

With that, Zecora lead them both through the forest and to her little home. What was going to 
happen during the time that Mystogan was there was certainly what he wasn’t expecting, though...
> Act 13: Mystogan VS The Forest Guardian
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The afternoon sun was setting slowly as Mystogan and Zecora made their way through the Everfree Forest, the rays of the sun peeking through the small openings of the trees shining upon the ground and their fur once they’d pass under them. Mystogan had to duck quite often so that he didn’t receive a branch to the face during their journey. The forest was nice and quiet except for the wind rustling through the leaves and the occasional sound of a creature or two announcing their presence. Mystogan had been here plenty of times on his own of course. But being here with another pony..it was actually pretty nice to have company in this place. Mystogan continued to gaze around the forest as he suddenly caught a whiff of something new. He stopped dead in his tracks which made Zecora nearly fall to the ground since she was leading him by the hand.”Hm? Is something the matter, Mystogan? You seem rather...preoccupied or something is on your mind.” she said as she watched him sniff about.

Mystogan took a few more steps forward, the sound of his heavy hoofsteps echoing through the forest as his eyes shifted around quickly. “That smell...bitter and smells of copper. I think something I need for a client is nearby.” he said as he suddenly started off in a light run, careful to avoid limbs and other things that might get in his way. “Wait, what is it?!” Zecora called out as she tried to keep up with the monster sized pony. Though, it wasn’t hard to keep track of him with his heavy hoofsteps both echoing through the immediate area and the trail of prints he left behind. The zebra wondered just what had the mountain stallion’s nose attention and made him run so quickly for it.

Once Zecora had finally found him in a small opening, she watched the stallion slide on his knees and quickly pull out a heavily black painted and covered jar and quickly but carefully picked a black and blue flower with a silvery center, placing it in the jar before quickly sealing it closed. He’d let out a sigh of relief knowing he acted quickly before any kind of bright light touched the plant before placing it in his satchel and standing back up to his hooves and turning back to Zecora. “Sorry about that. I actually need the petals from this flower for a client of mine. You see, despite its smell it actually makes any kind of food you prepare taste delicious when mixed with other basic ingredients. He had asked me to go and find one of these rare beauties. Turns out my luck is pretty good this afternoon.” he said before making his way back to the zebra’s side. “I have never seen such a flower before. In all my time of creating potions and remedies,I have never come across these…” she said as she did another little rhyme which made the stallion only smile at her.”They are called ‘Intangible Delights’. They can make even the most novice chef’s food taste like it was done by a grandmaster.”

As they walked through the forest back to Zecora’s home, the two of them started up a conversation about where Mystogan’s home was and what made him become an alchemist.”So, you come from the coldest and highest mountain of Equestria, yet I have never ever heard of any kind of pony like you. It is amazing that you even stand taller than the princess of the sun and that you are as thick and strong as a solid red oak.”. Mystogan gave a light snicker and shook his head in response, “Apparently my kind of have been quietly erased from all of Equestria’s history as I had found out while visiting the two royal sisters. After all, if the word of ‘warbred ponies’ got out in this day and age, things could get a little hot under the collar for all rulers. While they will never ever reach the top of the mountain where my kind lives, learning that one or two have descended to the land below might cause alarm. As we are not easily put down. Well...except if you wear me out to the point of hunger, then you certainly got me beat. Given the chance, I could eat the royal kitchen’s pantries clean.”. Zecora let out a rather amused and cute giggle as she reached up and gently patted the stallion’s tummy,”Oooh my. Well as big as you are, I'd imagine you wouldn’t even leave so much as a scrap of food left if it was served to you.”. Mystogan would simply nod in reassurance to Zecora’s assumption,”Indeed, so long as it is tasty, I certainly won’t say no. Though, would-be assassins might have an issue if they try to poison my food or drink. After all, you have seen my sense of smell and what it can do.” he said as he proudly puffed up his chest.

Zecora nodded again and spoke”I also can’t imagine how you’d get so large and strong. Most beasts like that tend to have meat in their diet as well..did you..?”. Mystogan simply nodded to her question she didn’t need to finish. “I am an omnivore, yes. Let’s just say...we did what we had to to make sure we survived before our kind started evolving to be able to live comfortably in the harsh conditions. That did include cannibalism as an extreme last resort. Thankfully, that time was a couple centuries ago. While we still eat meat, we do not feast on ponies of any kind. Sop you or anyone else doesn’t have to worry about losing a limb.”. Zecora let out a sigh of relief when he had explained that to her. She smiles up at him again before he asks her about her homeland.

“I come from a far away land myself. It is a land that is rather hot year around with a tropical climate. Not very many trees but lots of tall grass.”. Mystogan placed a hand on his chin and then snapped his fingers as he had read about such lands in the books he had read while staying with Twilight. “Aaah, so more of a savanna. I have read about those lands briefly. And it would make sense that your birthplace is there. As I also read that it is mostly populated by zebras. So my question to you is why did you decide to come all the way over here? Looking for a better place to live I suppose?”. Zecora nodded as she stopped to look around at all the beauty the forest had to offer.”Indeed, it is very vibrant and colorful here in this land. And so many opportunities for my trade. Though, I do miss my family at times. I get letters from them every now and then.” Mystoagn nodded again as he listened to her”Well, perhaps you and I could go see them sometime. After all, I left my home to learn more about the other lands surrounding mine. I’d be more than happy to accompany you. You just let me know when you want to take the trip.” Zecora’s eyes lit up with absolute happiness at Mystogan’s words. She took hold of his hand and squeezed it tightly with a look of hopefulness in her beautiful blue eyes. “R-Really? You’d take the long journey with me back and forth..?” Mystogan gently closed a hand around her and simply nodded, :Of course I would. I wouldn’t ever give my word and turn back on it.”. Zecora jumped up and down on her hooves like an excited little school filly before wrapping her arms around his waist in a hug, “Oh thank you thank you! It has been so long since I have gotten to see my family.! And I know that they will be happy to meet you as well!”. The stallion chuckled and nodded in agreement to her assumption.

As they continued on their journey to Zecora’s home. Mystogan suddenly came to a stop and pulled Zecora behind him. Something was extremely wrong here in this part of the forest. No breeze, no sounds from any animals at all. Zecora nearly fell once Mystogan had pulled her behind him,”Mystogan what in the-!”. Mystogan put his arm out in front of her with a sharp “Sh!” as he listened carefully, his ears twitching at the faintest sound, then he heard it in the distance. Something was barreling towards them and it sounded large. Judging from the hoofsteps it was a creature on all fours. It suddenly came out of nowhere, leaping over them both and running a few meters away from them before turning to confront them. It was a monstrous sized deer-like creature with large antlers, but was covered in vegetation and had bark like natural armor and burning ember eyes that stared at Mystogan with intent to kill. 

Zecora gasped as she knew exactly what this creature was. “Doneigada, the forest guardian!” she shouted before the creatures charged straight for the mountain stallion. Mystogan did the only thing he could do to prevent the guardian from getting through him. He plants his hooves firmly into the ground and grabs at the antlers of the charging beast, making contact quickly as the stallion slid back, but still maintained his footing. Mystogan grunted loudly as he was having trouble keeping the beast from going any further than him.”Zecora, move! Get somewhere safe!” He shouted. 

The guardian snorted and huffed as he and Mystogan were in a deadlock,”Hajakaribishwa hapa, mchafu! Umekuja kuiba rasilimali za msitu huu wa thamani na sitakubali!” (“You are not welcome here, defiler! You have come to steal the resources of this precious forest and I will not allow it!”) he said in a loud, bellowing voice. Mystogan growls low in his chest before letting out a mighty yell as he shifted the creature to the right and tossed him on his side from the force that the guardian was using against him. Two things that Zecora noticed about the guardian is that not only did it speak, but it also spoke in her language. Perhaps if she spoke to him, it might help calm things down. “Mlinzi wa msitu tafadhali acha hii! Yeye hayuko hapa kusababisha shida yoyote! Ninamuelekeza nyumbani kwangu! Ni hayo tu!”(“Guardian of the forest please stop this! He is not here to cause any trouble! I am guiding him to my home! That is all!”).  However, it seemed that her words fell on deaf ears as the guardian still remained focused on his target. 

Mystogan drew his sword quickly and started circling the beast slowly as he readied himself for any attack that might occur. His eyes focused on the guardian’s before the guardian suddenly summoned thick vines from around the forest floor to try and tie Mystogan’s arms to prevent him from moving or attacking. While the mountain stallion struggled and the guardian charged for ready to gore him, Mystogan broke free of his confines and leapt into the air with a push of his wings, returning back down with a thrust of his sword that penetrated the guardian’s armor, but not enough to cause any pain as it was quite thick. The guardian tried to toss him off by bucking around, destroying nearby trees and rock that covered the immediate area they were in, thankfully missing Zecora each time.

Mtsogan held on for dear life as one hand took hold of the antlers while the other held onto his sword’s hilt with the blade still buried in it’s armor. The stallion had to think quickly. There was an opening in the guardian’s armor right behind his neck where the spine was connected to the skull. A proper stab there and it would be a killing blow. But as soon as he got his sword out of the armor and prepared to strike, Zecora shouted to him. “No! If you kill him the forest will slowly die without his magic and presence! We need to find another way!”. Just as she says that, a vine comes out of nowhere and hits Mystogan right in the face, causing him to fall off the guardian and drop his sword a good couple of meters from his reach. He quickly rolls onto a hoof and knee as he sees the guardian charging for him again. “Damnit!” he shouted as he quickly reached into his satchel and pulled out a jar of fine grey powder. He throws it directly at the face of the guardian and watches it shatter upon impact before rolling out of the way. "Choke on ash, you bastard!" he shouted.

The guardian started bucking wildly again and thrashing his head about as the powder seems to have blinded him. Mystogan took this opportunity to grab his sword and grabbed his zebra friend as well, tossing her on his shoulder as he tried to get as much distance from them and the guardian as possible. The sound of the guardian’s roars and stomping getting further and further away as Mystogan charges forward. Getting them as far away as possible and as quick as his legs to carry them.

Once they finally made it to Zecora’s hut, Mystogan sat the zebra back onto her hooves and walked over to the nearby pond that was next to her home. Immediately he began to clean off his wounds, as some of the vines had left cuts on his face and body, wiping them clean and starting to bandage them up quickly as quite a few of them were very deep. Zecora watched the stallion doctor himself up with such quick and precise movements. She’d be lying if she said she didn’t want to be the one to make him all better, though. “What the hell is that damn beast’s problem with me?! I come in here time and time again to get ingredients for my alchemy and now all the sudden he wants me dead?!”.

 Zecora came up to Mystogan’s side and placed a gentle hand upon his upper arm where there were no injuries, gently rubbing it to try and calm him down. “He will not find you here. I made a pact with him to leave this place alone, no matter what. I..am sorry you had to deal with him. It may be because you took such a rare flower from the forest, that he saw you as a threat to its ecosystem. But I promise you are safe here.”. Mystogan was quiet for a few moments before letting out a sigh and gently placing his hand on top of hers. “I..am just glad I could keep you safe, Zecora. I heard you speak the same language to him, but it seems your words did not reach his ears. I must have taken something quite special if I made him that angry.

Once he had cleaned and bandaged all his wounds, She simply takes his hand and leads him into her hut. “Come with me, Mystogan. I will get you something filled and tasty to eat and take good care of you tonight. Please.” She said as she led the large stallion into the hut. It was going to be a rather small fit, but at least there would be shelter. By the time this happened, the sun had set, and it was now night. And the day would come again tomorrow.