> An Unexpected Journey
>  by DRWolf
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun had begun to set as Twilight Hour peaked into view behind the Everfree Forest horizon. Day animals made their way to the safety of their nests, borrows, and hideaways as the night would be taking hold of the world soon. However in the calm of the last light of day, a small white pony with an odd lion tail, and rainbow highlights, pushed her way past the brush and branches, carrying a small saddle bag with her. Though she wasn’t alone as an equally white arctic wolf, standing on two legs and dressed in a familiar purple, stepped out just behind her accompanying her on her journey through the wild woods.

“Well, that was a lovely visit,” spoke the wolf quietly, “It’s nice to see that Zecora is doing so well despite living in the Everfree by herself. Still, I’m curious as to why you felt the need to invite me along Lightning?"

“Sorry Doc,” Lightning Bliss replied to her wolf friend rather abrasively,  “but I really needed this oil for my bed. I admit I do suffer from moments of anxiety sometimes, and this oil helps me sleep. Zecora tends to make the best potions around these parts and she’s closer by, plus I didn’t want to bother Aeon for more of his stash. I also tend to get lost easily in the Everfree forest pretty easily and…” 

“Say no more Blissy,” Doc giggled at her flustered explanation, “I am happy to assist you regardless. I’m sorry you have moments struggling to sleep though. Maybe you ought to come by my office for another visit some time.”

“I dunno Doc…”  she stopped for a moment as if in concentration,  “I couldn’t pinpoint the problem to you even if I tried."

“It wouldn’t hurt to try though Lightning. Just a friendly offer, give it a thought?” He placed a friendly hand paw on her shoulder.

“Thanks, Doc, I will, and thanks again for coming along with me on short notice. I do tend to wander off and on when I’m distracted. Yikes!” She squeaked on her last words as she looked up into the trees, trying to spot what little sky she could see through the thick branches and leaves. “Perhaps a double good thing I asked you to come along. I just realized how dark it gets. I’d hate to walk home alone in this!”

“Goodness, you are right.” Doc agreed, having looked up at the darkening sky as well. “It’s nearly past Twilight already. We really should pick up the pace. I’m pretty sure Timber Wolves start coming out around this time.”

“No need to tell me twice Doc. Hop on!” With that Bliss crouched herself down, presenting her back to her canine friend. 

“Uh Lightning…” he spoke, taking a hesitant step back from the white alicorn’s back, ”I don’t think that’s a good idea. I merely suggest we walk a little faster.”

“What? You don’t trust me?”

“I didn’t say that,” he spoke while rubbing his head awkwardly, ”but sitting on a pony’s back... seems a little odd for me being a canine and-”

His soft shy words were suddenly cut off by the loud, hair standing on in at the howl of a large predatory wolf in the distance. A chorus of howls quickly followed. They froze for several seconds, waiting for the howls to end, only for them to come back again. Each time they seemed to get louder, and seemed unlikely to stop soon. The Timber Wolves were on the prowl and were moving fast. The gruesome howls merely ignited Lightning’s need to get out faster and prompted her horn to begin glowing as her alicorn magic flowed out, surrounding Dr. Wolf in a soft rainbow-colored glow. Before he could protest, Doc found himself lifted off the ground and promptly dropped on his rump on top of her back, the sudden shift in weight causing him to frantically grab her mane for balance.

“Lightning?!” He shrieked out.

“It’s like riding a bike you don’t control Doc!” she snapped back at him. ”Just hang on, I’m gonna canter.”

Bliss was ready to bolt but could tell Doc was still struggling to keep his form upright on her back. Bolting now would guarantee he’d fall off, so instead, she waited for him to stabilize himself, eyes darting around the woods urgently.

“Lightning this is very precarious!” The wolf psychologist struggled to stay in the middle of her back, finding himself slipping to her left, having to awkwardly kick to right himself back up. “I don’t think I can stay on!”

“Gah! Ouch! Doc that hurts!” she whinnied out as his tiny pawed feet nicked her sides, “Easy on the claws, and sit straight up like normal!

“I told you this wasn’t a good idea!”

“Ouch...maybe you’re right,” Bliss snorted in frustration but gave out a heavy sigh of disappointment,  “I guess we could have made good time if-”

Her words died in her throat as a sudden low growl manifested behind her flanks, freezing her in place. It was a sound she could only describe as something instinctual she only recognized from her nightmares. It rumbled as if from the ground, up into her hooves and into her chest, making her freeze in terror. Doc turned to face the threat behind them, and was met with glowing yellow eyes admitting from the wooden living timbers of the beast ponies called, “Timber Wolves.” 

What he could make out of the creature was best described as a collection of trees and bushes that came together to form a familiar shape of a wolf, only this was no furry canine relative he could promptly communicate with. These animals were aggressive and territorial from what he learned about from pony books. One thing only reinforced that notion and added another on top of it: based on the thick smell of swampy breath it was emitting from its rocky, jagged mouth and the narrowing of its eyes, it was hungry. Along with the rest of its pack directly behind it. 

“Oh no…” Doc suddenly managed to right himself up, and frantically grabbed Lightning Bliss’s mane, “Lightning GO! RUN FOR IT!”

Lightning was a statue, completely frozen in place in fear.

“LIGHTNING?! MOVE! Quickly! The path is open!”

Bliss could barely hear Doc over the sound of growls and snarls behind her. She trembled under Doc’s weight, feeling herself giving into an ice-cold fear. The leader of the Timber Wolves snarled louder and stepped forward, his jaws eager to chomp down on a rainbow pony and wolf sandwich.

“Oh dear…” Doc gulped in terror as the beast was nearly on top of them, forcing him to take drastic measures, “Sorry to do this, Lightning!” 

A sudden sharp pain raced from Lightning’s tail and shot up into her spine all the way up to her back, prompting a newfound instinct to flee. Not bothering to look the fact back to see it'd been Doc who'd bitten her tail as hard as he could, Lightning found her hooves once more and kicked off the ground as the Timber Wolf lunged. The beast was met with nothing but dirt as it plunged it’s wooden muzzle hard into the ground where they'd previously stood. Holding on for dear life, Doc sat low on Bliss’s back, keeping balance with her movements as she galloped through the brush, leaping over rocks and dead tree trunks as they fled for their lives, the fear and adrenaline encouraging her to go faster with every heartbeat.

“Sorry, Doc!” She blurted out as she ran.” I didn’t know what came over me!”

“Don’t worry about that now just keep going!” He called back as he looked over his shoulder urgently. To his horror, the pack of Timber Wolves was right on them. There were dozens of them, all of various shapes and sizes, but the same eager and hungry glowing yellow eyes. Still so close he could smell their foul breath. One managed to leap over two of its packmates in an attempt to snap at Bliss’s flanks. Doc managed to lift one of his legs up just at the Timber Wolf's jaws snapped, just missing his paw.”Lightning! Can you fly up?”

Hearing his idea amongst the sound of her beating heart, the howls and snaps of the Timber Wolves, and her clap of her hooves, Bliss looked up to see if there was a break in the treeline. She panted at the effort but could see no holes big enough for her to break through, but that didn’t mean she couldn't attempt to gain elevation and distance themselves from their attackers.

“I can try to!” She cried out, “Hang on!”

Taking a quick breath, she leapt into the air, extending her wings out and flapping as hard as she could to gain momentum.  For a moment she smiled thinking they were home free only to realize she was still drifting near the ground despite her efforts, then it dawned on her. Bliss had never flown with extra weight on her back before as heavy as Doc. Needless to say, the effort to flap her wings harder just to gain distance off the ground was staggering. But there was little choice for her to make, she had to put all she had into her wings just to keep them up in the air. As she continued to climb she attempted to spot an opening in the trees but with no aid in sight, the forest was too thick. When that failed, she instead looked for a branch thick enough to support the two, fairly small creatures, but the only ones in sight were all within pouncing distance of the wolves. Meanwhile, in the chaos of their prey now being airborne, a Timber Wolf saw its chance and leaped into the air to grab for her long lion tail.

“LIGHTNING FIVE O’CLOCK!” Doc barked as he spotted the wolf lunge.

Bliss cried out in terror and pointed her head at the leaping wolf. As if by instinct or threat that its host was in danger, her rainbow magic lit from her horn and fired upon the wooden wolf monster, shattering it into pieces. Though the defeat of one of their assailants was relieving, it did not fix the problem they now faced, which was her losing her stride in flight, and falling back to the ground. Startled and too exhausted to fly anymore, Bliss found herself backed up against a large oak tree as the rest of the Timber Wolf pack began to surround her and Doc, growling and snarling, seeming to discuss who is to lunge at them first.

“I...I can’t fly and...fire at the same time,” she panted out.

“We’ll figure a way out of this Lightning,” Doc tried to console her, only to suddenly find himself being enveloped in her rainbow magic again and levitated up then placed down behind her. “Lightning? What are you doing?”

“No choice Doc… I’ll zap as many as I can…” she stated without looking back at him, “then you can make a run for it and get help…”

“Absolutely not!” he snapped almost in a growl. “That’s not an option!”

“DOC!” Bliss snorted back,” NOW IS NOT THE TIME FOR-”

Suddenly, a wolf lunged at them both, prompting Bliss to fire back in defense. This signaled for the rest of the wolves to come in to the attack. A full battle broke out as the sounds of rainbow magic filled the air. Doc grabbed the nearest tree branch he could muster and wielded it like a club, quickly wacking a wolf that snapped near Bliss’s side. Despite the efforts of the rainbow alicorn and her small wolven friend, the Timber Wolves' magical ability to keep rebuilding themselves was only drawing out the battle. Bliss’s magic was draining fast and the color in her eyes along with it. Doc continued to smack and punch back as many wolves she couldn’t fire on as he could. One wolf finally lunged for his club, grabbing and attempting to shake it from his hands.

“AHH!” He howled out, “NO!”

The Timber Beast ripped the club from his hands and reared up to bite down on its furry counterpart that is Dr. Wolf, only for it to suddenly bite down on a familiar white wing, shooting out to protect Doc just in time. Doc Watched in horror as the wolf bit into flesh and feathers and proceed to shake it’s head back and forth, trying to tear it free of its prey’s body.

“AHHH GET OFF ME!!!!” Doc heard Bliss’s cries of agony just before the beast was obliterated by her rainbow firepower.

“LIGHTNING YOUR WING!” Doc cried out seeing the shredded limb hanging off her side. He grabbed onto his pony sibling as she slumped back closer to him, clearly exhausted and in shock. The pack now seeming to realize their prey were drained and weakened by their efforts, started getting closer as if to enjoy their moments of toying with their dinner. Doc bared his teeth, attempting to look intimidating as possible. He didn’t know what prompted him to do this, other than a primal instinct to protect one of his own pack members. Despite his efforts, the Timber Wolves continued to close the distance between them. Lighting looked half-awake as she lifted her head up in shock. Their doom was nearing if she didn’t think of a plan soon. Her firepower meant nothing against enemies that could rebuild themselves from the surrounding woods, and even Doc’s wolven growls had no intimidating effect on them. There was only one choice left she could think of, knowing that with her current state it was a gamble. Closing her eyes she focused the last remaining magic she had left, and focused on a spell for teleportation.

“Please let this work.” she pleaded to whoever would listen, “Just...teleport us somewhere SAFE!”

“Please do!” Doc called out with her, holding on while still baring his teeth and giving his best snarl. He felt the familiar warm yet energetic magic of Lightning’s power surround them both, and in a flash of brilliant white light, he found himself wiped of all energy as the air clapped around them, before blacking out.
> Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Doc didn’t know how long he was out, but he knew they had to have been teleported away from the Timber Wolves. The sounds of growling had now been replaced with a new sound of blowing cold winds. Slowly he sat up, rubbing his eyes and quickly trying to gather his bearings. A familiar pounding headache throbbed in the front of his temple from the sudden flash of light. He snarled at it, wishing one day that would stop happening every time he was startled by lights or even reading for long periods of time. Pushing back the ache in his head, he regained his feet underneath him and quickly realized they were not even surrounded by woods or trees anymore. Instead, he was met with the sight of a dark and brown land, with large alien-like vines protruding from the ground with sharp threatening spines on them. It was clearly a dark and gruesome terrain that was not welcoming of any creature. To say they were better off was a stretch just by looking at it, but at least they were no longer a certain meal for a pack of wooden creatures. 

The bipedal wolf shivered as another burst of cold wind slammed into him, seeming to penetrate right through his vest, his shirt, even his fur. He quietly gave thanks to himself how blessed he was to be an Arctic wolf at the moment due to having better defense against the cold, but needless to say he knew Lightning well enough that her tolerance was less than average. Suddenly it dawned on him. 

'Where is Lightning Bliss?' He frantically whirled around in search but quickly discovered she was a foot behind him, laying on her side seeming unconscious. He dashed to her side fearing she was in worse shape and was met with a nasty sight of her injured wing. It was completely shredded, with primary feathers missing. It looked mangled and crooked in places, broken? And there were clearly teeth marks showing through the skin.

“Lightning? Lightning?” He patted her face trying to wake her, “Lightning?! Lightning! Wake up…Please wake up so I know you’re okay…” To his relief, her eyes began to flutter then slowly open up.

“Did...did I fall asleep at my desk again..?” She lifted her head up to him. Then in an instant, everything came back to her memory, “TIMBER WOLVES! Doc, are we okay? Did they? OUCH!” She immediately felt the pain in her shoulder that stretched down to her featherless limb, and remembered the attack, the wolf biting down on her wing in her attempts to protect Doc. 

“Easy!” He attempted to say calmly only for it to come out more firm. He came closer to inspect her injury only to his annoyance she pulled away from him.

“Don’t touch it don’t touch it!” She pleaded with him much like a young filly would.

“That’s enough Lightning!” Doc intentionally spoke firmly that time, making her freeze in place, while he took his vest off. “That was so foolish of you! What were you thinking making me ride on your back like that!?”

“Gah” she winced as he tied his one of his two pieces of clothing around her side and wing, in an attempt to make a primitive sling and bandage at the same time. 

“Well...what was I supposed to do? Let the Timber Wolf eat you?” She mustered the will to speak as he worked quickly.

“I suggested we quickened our pace Lightnnning,” he intentionally dragged out her first name to make his point, “but instead you decided to go ahead and try to make me a rider in less than a few seconds…”

“It was going to be faster!”

“It. Was. Reckless...”

“It would have worked, you grumpy old-” she snorted and pulled away just as he finished, turning her back to him. 

Doc curled his fists, for the first time in a while, he was angry. Not that he wanted to say he was, but he knew she was too, but in the end, now was not the time for heated tempers. Realizing it wasn’t so much he was angry at her, but rather it was fear of the circumstances they were in. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly, a familiar tactic he used when trying to relax or calm his nerves, and stepped away to give her some space as well as himself.

“I was...just trying to help…” he heard her say after their moment of silence. 

He sighed.

“I know you were, Blissy,” he looked back to her while she still faced away from him, “I just don’t like seeing my friends get hurt. I feel like this could have all been avoided somehow if I had been able to assist…”

She turned around to look back at him, recognizing his familiar worrying tone again. 

“I...I made a mistake Doc, it was never your fault. I should be apologizing. It was my fault-”

“No Lightning...It was neither of ours.” He took another breath and placed a paw on her shoulder, “I am sorry for snapping at you. I just have never been in these sorts of situations before. But right now I’m concerned about you. That wing looks really bad and could get infected... We need to find help soon. Do you know where you teleported us?”

Bliss blinked and realized she hadn’t quite taken in their new surroundings. She too began to look around at the barren new land. It’s dark and eerie brown in color like nothing could ever live there. She couldn’t even see a break in the murky clouds above them, or was it because it was already getting dark here too? The wind was cold and constantly howling, and the ground seemed to feel more like grounded dry dirt, almost sand-like in texture. But worst of all, she could see no signs of civilization anywhere.

“I've...never seen a land like this before.” She finally spoke, “Nor have I heard anything about it specifically. Gosh...where did my magic take us?”

“Dear me…” Doc stood next to her, looking equally concerned, “and with your wing injured, we cannot fly. Is it possible you could teleport us again?”

“I could try, but I wouldn’t know where we’d end up. I could make us more lost…” She lowered her cyan eyes down to her feet, “I need to know where I am so I have a direction of where to go to…”

“Hmm...Then perhaps we should start walking, see if we can find someone to help us. Are you well enough to walk?” He watched and grew more concerned as his friend slowly and wobbly stood up on her hooves. In time he knew her magic would return, but with all the effort she exerted into fighting the Timber Wolves, it had made her very weak...he didn’t know when she would recover.

“As long as I don’t move my wing too much,” she clenched as her wing shifted in the makeshift brace made of his vest, “I think I’ll be okay.”

“Blissy please…” Doc pleaded with her, “please let me know if we need to stop…If for any reason, please don’t hesitate to ask me to stop. In all seriousness...I know you don’t handle the cold very well...and I’m an arctic wolf by birth. If for any reason you need assistance-” 

“Doc I’ll be fine-” she bluntly cut him off, “let’s...just get going” She gritted her teeth and started walking in the direction they were facing, grunting with every step she took. With concern in his face, Doc sighed and followed closely after, shielding his eyes from the blowing sand and dunes.

As the hours ticked by, the terrain started getting harder and tedious to navigate. The light was no longer shining in this part of the world they were in, if anything it was getting darker. There were no signs of water or shelter to be found. The cold wind stung at their faces, though more painfully to Bliss then to her more qualified counterpart. Whereas she knew Doc was born in much colder climates and had the capacity to survive in harsh conditions, she was more used to warmer climates, like back home in Appleloosa or Ponyville. 

Trying to keep going, she pictured being in warmer climates, like her home rainbow meadow, or a cafe that served hot chocolate in Ponyville, but the wind continued it’s attack, piercing into her skin and bones. Not helping matters was that with every shift in her weight the sling holding her wing would slump, sending a wave of pain into her limb and shoulder all the way up her back, reminding her of the trouble they were truly in. Each step was agony, with every use of her muscles forcing her broken wing to shift, making each little dune they walked over feel like climbing mountains. Still, she was determined to keep pace, but even though Doc was easily able to walk past and was leading the way, she slowly and surely began dragging further behind. 

“We-e ne-e-ed to find shelter...and soon…” Doc called out to her over the wind.

“I’m...right...there...with-” another wave of pain enveloped Bliss’s body, like a tremor, forcing her to a stop. Her wing was throbbing, her joints ached, her muscles trembled. In one last-ditch effort, she looked up, seeing a blurry white blob shape she assumed was Doc coming towards her.

“Lightning…” he walked back to her, “are you still with me?”

“It’s just...cold…” was the last thing she muttered before the world went black.

“LIGHTNING?!” Doc doubled back running to the pony’s side. He noticed she was shivering, completely unconscious and whimpering in pain. He placed a paw on her forehead, and despite her shivering, she was actually burning up. “A fever? Goodness no, she’s worse than I thought. Stubborn mare! I told her to let me know if she needed to stop! She knows she doesn’t do well in the cold! ...By the Princesses…What do I do now…?”

He looked up across the landscape. There was nothing for miles, no evidence of civilization or any life for that matter, nothing but blowing dirt, sand, and those eerie alien vines. The temperature was dropping more by the second, and his little pony sister was freezing to death. What could one bipedal wolf do? Trying not to panic, Doc sat next to her, trying to keep her warm as he tried to think of the next step. He reached back to his earlier days when he first traveled to Equestria with his dragon brother Teric. He recalled getting sick, much like what happened to Bliss on their travels, and how Teric was able to take care of him. He'd been able to carry him to a small oasis he knew in the landscape that had supplies, food, and water. But Doc knew he had neither of those things. Bliss had lost her saddlebags in the escape from the Timber Wolves he recalled, not that they had much to offer anyway, other than Zebra Oils. 

The logical thing to do would be to start a fire, but nothing in sight looked fit for the job. Despite the howling winds surrounding them, his ears twitched in worry hearing the sounds of Bliss whimpering from the cold and illness she was battling. He placed a paw on his brow, anxiety beginning to build.

“Oh, Teric...Teric where are you....” he silently pleaded out, “Brother I need you, you would know how to manage this terrain better than me…”

“Did you say Tirek?”

Doc jumped up at the sound of a new voice he had never heard before. The voice was deep and gruff like the being was in a constant state of anger. He turned slowly as his eyes were met with a being four times his size, if not taller than Princess Celestia. The being had a long snout, bat-like wings, stood on two legs much like a Minotaur and was very furry from the top of his head down to his legs. He sported a thick mane like a lion’s with only one bit of clothing, a rag cloth with a belt, that gave him plenty of freedom for his long prehensile tail.

“I...N-no? Who? Who are you?”

The unknown being gruffed again seeming rather annoyed but firmly replied back.

“Been a long time since I’ve seen a pony here,” he bluntly pointed to Bliss, “but I don’t think I’ve seen one of you before.”

Doc looked taken aback nervously staring at the accusing finger the creature had pointed at him. 

“The name is Scorpan,” the new being declared dropping his finger, “I’m not here to cause you trouble. No time for pleasantries, we’re getting out of here, right now.” He took a blunt step forward toward Bliss, prompting Doc to stand with his arms out open in defense.

“Please wait, slow down! Did...did you say your name is Scorpan?” Doc spoke back worriedly, “That...that name. I remember it from somewhere...Of course! Scorpan!”

“Yes...that is me? Have we met before?”

“Forgive me no but…” Doc took a moment to remember, slowly lowering his defense. He had recalled the name Scorpan in his file before he went to have that special visit for Tirek upon Princess Celestia’s request. This was his younger brother? Scorpan? The one brother who refused to take part in invading Equestria, and even warned Celestia and Luna of Tirek’s plans for domination? 

“I-I know of your brother, Tirek,” Doc finished.

The tall brown creature let out another grunt before taking another step forward.

“I take it my brother is in a safe place at least?”

“I’m…” Doc hesitated again but replied, “I’m afraid he’s been long since imprisoned in Tartarus for crimes against Equestria. But no harm has come to him if that’s what you mean. I’m sorry if I’m the bearer of bad news but-”

“We’ll talk about this later,” Scorpan cut him off, “but I think your companion needs help. Now. Come on. Night is here and it will get colder.” Despite Doc’s hesitation, Scorpan pushed him aside and lifted Bliss off the cold ground, turned and began walking supposedly where he came from.

“Um, of course, yes please,” he slowly agreed and followed, “Her wing was torn by a Timber Wolf. We’ve been traveling for hours to find shelter but we’re not even sure where we are.”

“Timber Wolves huh,” grunted Scorpan, “You two are a long way from Equestria...You’ll have to explain to me how you got here when we get to my home. Oh, by the way, I didn’t catch your name little one.”

“Erm… Most ponies call me Dr. Wolf. Or Doc if you prefer. My friend there is Lightning Bliss.”

“Hmm…” the tall being took a moment to look down at the little white mare he was carrying, and managed to muster a small smile, “Heh, she’s kinda cute.”

“Erm…” Doc rubbed his head awkwardly, for once grateful that Lightning couldn’t hear her trigger word compliment. “I suppose so eheh...Is your home far?”

“Not far. Keep up, wolf creature, or get left behind.”

“Indeed!”
> Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

After walking for several minutes, Scorpan led Doc to a series of cliffs that they never would have spotted in the dark and constant shift of sandy winds blowing in the sky. As they got closer, Scorpan wasted no time in directing them to a cave seemingly located in the upper midsection of less jagged parts of the cliff. Doc was unsure how he could follow Scorpan up knowing that must be where he resided. It had to have been over 100ft off the ground. However, while he tried to see if there was some hidden staircase he was quickly thrown off from looking when a strong brown arm wrapped around his waist, hoisting him up like a buck ball. He found himself being carried up into the air with little effort at a sudden clap of wind from Scorpan’s wings as they flew up to the cave entrance.

'For once I am grateful I haven’t had my dinner yet…' Doc thought to himself at the sudden shift in gravity and G-force, making his stomach turn. Within seconds Scorpan made his way up, landing firmly in the cave entrance and plopping Doc down roughly inside. 

“Oomph...Goodness…” Doc huffed as he dusted himself off from the rough handling, and watched as Scorpan proceeded to carry the still unconscious Bliss to several throw rugs covering the rocky floor, what he could only assume was his bed. 

The cave was much larger than it looked from the outside, and well lit with torches and a center campfire area, while the rocky smooth walls sported shelves of books and scrolls. Doc could even make out the makings of a kitchen area, also carved and polished from the cave walls themselves. It wouldn’t win any fashion designs by Rarity’s standards, but it looked civil enough. He followed Scorpan over as he placed Bliss down onto the rugs, then proceed to leave for a moment to come back with more pillows and blankets. Doc relaxed and sat next to Bliss as Scorpan would retreat several more times to come back with stems, branches, some bandage wrapping, and ointments, then quickly went to work bandaging her wing up and making sure she was sleeping quietly. Cautiously he removed the once purple, now red vest, and stared at it for a moment in confusion.

“Hmm?” He grunted showing it to Doc for an explanation.

“Ah...erm, yes well...that was my vest. It was all I had...” Doc replied.

“Hmm” seeming disappointed in Doc’s attempts, Scorpan shrugged at the makeshift splint and tossed it into the open fire. 

Doc gasped and reached out for it, but it was already too late to save his vest now. After watching it burn he sulked back and continued watching Scorpan work on the alicorn’s wing. Once finished, the gargoyle started going through a shelf of pots and pans, assumably to make some food. Taking the opportunity, Doc looked over at Bliss. Her fever was still there, and her muscles seemed to ache and tremor from the effort, but at least she was no longer whimpering in her sleep. He breathed a sigh of relief and decided while their host wasn’t focusing on him to further inspect their new surroundings. Then in a darker part of the cave, Doc managed to spot a picture on the far wall. Although the picture was slightly hidden in the dark, he could make out the face of Tirek.

“So DrWolf was it?” Scorpan’s commanding angry voice jolted Doc back to face the one who was offering him a bowl of food. “Here”

“Oh, th-thank you kindly.” Doc slowly took the food and sipped cautiously. It was sour but had a pleasant sweetness and tanginess to the broth. He frowned realizing there wasn’t much meat, but more of a vegetable texture shifting in the light brown soup, but at this point, he wasn’t about to complain, let alone insult the host who rescued them.

In a huff and a growl, Scorpan dropped on his rump across from Doc on the other side of the fire, examining him for a moment as he ate.

“So,” his gruff voice breaking the silence, “You were explaining to me how...you two got here?”

Doc pulled the bowl away from his eager muzzle, “Yes,” he tried to answer only to raise the bowl up again. I must be more hungry than I thought. Finally, he took the bowl back down, “Apologies ahem. It’s a little complicated. You see my friend here is an-”

“An alicorn. I can see that.” he cut off the white wolf, “Odd, I thought Celestia and Luna were the only alicorns in Equestria.”

“Actually, there are now three more alicorns,” Doc realized how outdated Scorpan was. “There’s Princess Twilight, her sister-in-law Princess Cadence of the Crystal Empire, and Princess Cadence's daughter, Princess Flurry Heart.”

The look on Scorpan’s face shifted to one of surprise, making Doc slow down so he could catch up. It was clear Scorpan was truly unaware of the latest current events. 

“Things have certainly changed since my last visit…” he replied breaking the silence “So I take it this is Princess Lightning Bliss?”

“Well not exactly,” Doc corrected. “She is an odd situation I suppose you could say. But she has no claims to royalty.”

“I see… So how did you two get here?”

Doc held up a finger to Scorpan to take another sip of his soup, then politely continued. “Like I said, Lightning is an odd situation. Though a talented alicorn, she’s still rusty with using her magic. There was an incident and...well, here we are.”

This response did not seem to sit well with Scorpan, who crossed his arms and puffed out his chest at the smaller white wolf being.

“Is that so? Well, that incident you claim has left your friend with a damaged wing and a fever if you haven’t noticed.” 

The tone and pronunciation in Scorpan’s voice forced a choke out of Doc as he was sipping, prompting him to place his bowl down. Scorpan’s words were like daggers in Doc’s heart, and in that moment he felt responsible for what happened to Bliss. He looked towards her, seeing her still out cold and seeming to be battling nightmares as she slept. He held himself tightly, feeling a familiar anxiety and guilt well up inside him. The sudden change in body posture did not go unnoticed by Scorpan, whose face went from angry and disappointed to concerned and guilty.

“My apologies…” the gargoyle mustered out of his long muzzle, “I tend to be blunt when I don’t mean to be. Your friend will be fine after some rest. It’s just a shame that it happened to such a small, fragile thing like her. I can’t stand the thought of any pony getting hurt. I can tell you feel the same way?”

“Yes, of course,” Doc looked back at Scorpan, “I would never want to put any of my friends in danger. 

“Hmm…”

Silence fell into the cave once more, with only the sounds of the fire, and Bliss’s wheezing as she breathed. It was starting to feel awkward and uncomfortable at that moment, something that didn't sit well with Doc. He was growing idle, one of the few things he detested. He could see in Scorpan’s eyes that he was a being that was not used to company but seemed content with them being there.

“Forgive me for asking Mr. Scorpan,” Doc spoke up breaking the silence, “but I believe you have been to Equestria before haven’t you?”

“It was a long, long time ago.” Scorpan shifted, not making eye contact with Doc.

“I see…” the bipedal wolf waited for a moment. Not sensing any signs of Scorpan disagreeing with having a conversation, he continued. “So the last time you were there...was with your brother Tirek?”

"Yes. So...you mentioned my brother's name earlier…"

“I’ve...actually spoken to him once upon Princess Celestia’s request.” Doc continued, “Sadly I fear my visit was not welcome nor wanted by your brother. Things I’m afraid have not much improved since he attempted to-” quickly Doc coughed at the end of the sentence, realizing he was about to reveal something rather sensitive. With how Scorpan had behaved thus far, mentioning his brother was now encased in stone for crimes against all of Equestria, now did not seem like a good time to bring it up. Quickly pulling his fur back and composing himself, the wolf continued with “I apologize if this topic is...sensitive. You seem...upset Mr. Scorpan…”

“Hail to the wide-eyed canine!” Scorpan blurted out, “Of course I’m upset! My brother was going to harm Equestrians, innocent creatures, for his own selfish gain. My friend Star Swirl would have suffered the same fate had I not-”

The gargoyle's roars echoed as he cut himself off to catch himself from screaming, trying to avoid waking up Bliss or shake the cave ceiling further.

“I’m sorry,” Scorpan mustered out after a moment.

“It’s quite alright,” Doc sat up, taking a seat on a bigger rock off the floor to elevate himself to cross his legs, much like he would do during his therapy visits back in his office. Being the Ponyville wolf therapist had its moments, such as helping him recognize a being that needed his help. He took the initiative upon seeing Scorpan’s inner struggles and decided to offer him aid to talk; he leaned forward, his hands supporting his chin, “I can’t imagine being on that end of the story...where a family member puts you in a situation where you have to decide what’s right? So Mr. Scorpan...tell me what’s on your mind.”

Scorpan blinked at the realization that the Doctor was willing to hear him speak, though seemed a little hesitant to proceed. He scratched the back of his head, seeming to think about it, sighed, and then responded.

“Don’t get me wrong Dr. Wolf...I loved my brother very much. Having the same goals much like he did...If you know my brother’s history then you’ll understand that I used to think exactly the same way he did in the beginning...Does that make you uncomfortable with me telling you this?”

“It does not,” Doc smiled softly, “I would like to offer my assistance to you if you’re not feeling well. It’s the least I can do after everything you’ve done for me and Lightning Bliss. It may not be much but I can offer you a friendly ear if you’d like to talk about it.”

It was hardly the first time Dr. Wolf had spoken with a reformed villain. Everyone from Diamond Tiara to Discord had come into his office at one point or another. So he had plenty of experience in that regard.

“Very well then…” Scorpan took a breath and continued, “It's been so long since I actually had a conversation with any creature. Might as well take this advantage. Many years back Doctor, I was a very different being. Tirek and I both had ambitions for power, and we searched long and wide to obtain it. It was our destiny he and I believed I suppose. We were always together, searching all over, never stopping till we reached our goal. We only had each other during those times. Friendship was a foreign thought, only loyalty spoke to us." 

The Gargoyle seemed lost in his memories for a few moments until he jolted back. "Anyway...During our travels, we discovered the ponies of Equestria and their bountiful supply of magic. Unicorns with their magical talents, pegasus with their ability of flight, even the grounded ponies had canny talents tuned to the magic of their lands. However... we didn’t care if it belonged to the ponies, we merely viewed them as weak equines; farm animals that needed to be tamed… But then…”

“But then you...found something?” Doc continued his sentence.

“I did…” Scorpan continued. “Something I don’t think even he ever experienced. The ponies were so kind and open to me, despite the fact that I was nothing like them. I had no magic as they called it, no unique talents or cutie marks, and yet they accepted who I was...I even gained a best friend, who taught me the values of their magic and what they used it for. He was such a talented unicorn, and showed great promise to better his lands and his kind.”

“Star Swirl?”

“Yes,” Scorpan nodded. “He was a spunky unicorn. Tartarus bent on learning sorcery as much as he could, but he still made time to teach me the ways of ponies. Heh, I even remember this time he had me join a session with his prized pupils, Princess Celestia and Luna. I enjoyed my teachings so much and the company I spent with the ponies...and decided that while my brother Tirek was plotting on taking over the lands, I would sneak away to be with Star Swirl. I suppose I lied to him about gaining more information on the ponies to better understand how we could defeat them, but in reality, I was learning about them in general and the bonds these ponies made. Family was very important to them, much like me and my brother. They cared for each other, took care of one another. Shared homes and helped others that were in need. The more I watched, the more I realized the key to their powerful magic in the end. It was their bonding, their connections that made ponies strong. Their connections are what kept their lands safe all this time, as their people were no strangers to threats trying to take over their world." 

Scorpan thought back, clearly trying to remember events from a millennia ago. Doc could relate, given how old he himself was. "I soon realized that if I were to allow myself or my brother to steal such power away from the ponies, it would end with complete disaster and devastation to Equestrian civilization. We wouldn’t just be taking away the ponies magic, we’d be taking away their hopes, their creativity, their abilities to better our world. I couldn’t allow this to happen and knew I had to confront my brother about our plans but-”

Doc had listened all the way through, though was surprised Scorpan chose to stop. He could see the strong brown being seemed to be getting angry, shaking with rage in fact.

“Are you alright Scorpan?” Doc asked.

“WHY DID HE DO THIS??! WHY DID HE HAVE TO DO IT?!” Scorpan suddenly slammed his fist into the wall, making the entire cave shake. Doc flinched at the display of physical power, even covering his face in fear of what would come next. But as the cave was slowly starting to cease its tremors, he heard a familiar whimper come from his right. Lightning had finally awoken from her sleep with an abrupt start.

”HUH?! What?!” Bliss jolted her head up, laying on her belly, unaware of her location. Her eyes darted left and right, scanning her surroundings only for them to fall on Scorpan first and whinnied out in terror, scooting off and away from the bed, “TIMBER WOLVES!!!”

“BLISSY WAIT!” Doc called out to her, “Relax! He’s a friend!”

“I am?” Scorpan reacted in surprise to the title before diverting his attention back to the trembling alicorn, “Erm right…” Promptly he stood up and stomped towards her, looking more menacing as his wings extended out, “The name is Scorpan and you, little pony, shouldn’t be out of bed.”

“H-he brought us here, Doc?” Bliss blurted out having heard and spotted Doc on the other side of where she slept.

“Yes,” Doc replied calmly back. “He saved your life in fact.”

“Huh? He did? Gah!” She whinnied out again, forgetting that her wing was injured and had attempted to move it, only to be reminded of its injury from the pain. She looked down at the new brace her wing was tied and bandaged tightly.

“Yes,” Scorpan stomped forward towards her,  “You shouldn’t be out of bed. You’re not out of the woods yet.”

“Technically I am,” the rainbow alicorn replied in an attempt to calm her nerves with humor. “I teleported us here and YIPE!” 

Before Doc could stop him, Scorpan hoisted Bliss up by the scruff of her neck and promptly carried back to the bed, with her whimpering from the rough handle all the way. Doc leapt to his feet, clearly upset by her treatment.

“Get back under the blankets, right now!” Scorpan yelled at her before dropping her on the rug.

“OUCH!” Bliss cried out and shrunk down low as she could against Scorpan only to see Doc getting between her and the large angry brute.

“ENOUGH!” Doc snapped up at Scorpan. He didn’t care how tall Scorpan was, he was not having the mistreatment of his younger sibling go unnoticed, “Could you not be so physical in your requests Scorpan?! You said it yourself she is hurt, grabbing her by the neck won’t make things any better!”

Both Bliss and Scorpan seemed taken aback by the wolf’s brave stance. His chest puffed out, his tail up and alert, ears pinned back. If Bliss did not know any better she could have sworn he had bared his teeth in silence. Scorpan meanwhile seemed defeated, his pride damaged. He slowly backed away, lowered his head, then turned and headed back to the kitchen to grab another bowl from the stove. Doc continued to follow Scorpan with an unrelenting alpha stare as he made his way back, dropping another bowl of food at Doc’s feet.

“Make her eat.” He bluntly stated before turning away.

Realizing what was happening, Doc dropped both his tail and his arms, sensing Scorpan’s feelings had shifted to guilt. 'Did I go too far?' Doc thought to himself. 

“Wait please,” the wolf pleaded to Scorpan, “I didn’t mean to be so blunt. I was just concerned for my-”

“Don’t apologize. Just make sure she eats.” With that Scorpan darted out of sight, into what seemed to be another tunnel into another set of caves.

Bliss blinked in confusion, looking at the cave this Scorpan ran into, then back to Doc, then back at the cave again. “What was that all about?”

Doc sighed but replied, “It appears that Mr. Scorpan just has a very blunt way of facing...challenges or obstacles. And likely has never been confronted like this before.” He leaned down and picked up the bowl, holding it to her, “But I am glad to see you are awake Lightning. I would also agree with him that you should eat something.”

“Oh...oh okay,” she took the bowl in her hoof and sipped before looking up to him, “Did I do something wrong to him?”

“No no,” Doc assured her. “Don’t you worry about it. I think he just needs time, and maybe a little practice talking to other beings. It appears he’s been isolated for many, Many years.  Ever since he left Equestria after his brother was imprisoned.”

“Brother?” Bliss sputtered from a gulp of soup, “Imprison? Context!”

“Eat slowly Lightning…” the wolf sighed and sat down next to her. “I’ll explain everything.”
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bliss sat in silence as Doc laid out what happened after she passed out. How Scorpan came out of the dark and carried her while leading him back to his cave. How he fixed up her wing and offered them food, then explained how he knew who Scorpan was based off a therapy visit he did with Tirek. Admittingly she was saddened by the facts he gave her, and how they were once close brothers, only to be separated by different goals and ambitions. She couldn’t imagine if Doc and Teric were to fight and separate like that with how close they are. She couldn’t help but relate to Scorpan’s situation since it was starting to remind her of past incidents with her siblings, though she didn’t feel now was the time to go into it.

“I see…” Bliss stated after a while, “So he’s been out here all this time, alone?”

“It looks to be that way…” Doc replied. “I can’t imagine what that life must be like. But then again…”

“You...kinda do know what that’s like don’t you?”

Doc leaned back as if deep in thought, reflecting on his past from years ago before he came to Ponyville.

“When I was with my Master in that Enchanted Library, Blissy…” the Equestrian wolf replied. “I can’t remember how long I must have waited for his return. At least I had a hope that he would return one day. That’s why I didn’t leave...and probably never would have if it weren’t for Teric. After I met him, he helped me come to terms that Master may be forever lost, no matter how long I kept my head in those books and waited. No amount of research would bring him back to me I realized...For all I know he’s probably still there, searching in that endless sea of books and shelves of knowledge...for something I will never know…”

Bliss lowered her head down on a pillow, sensing painful memories from her older wolf bro. 

“I can’t imagine being isolated like that.” She spoke quietly but that he could still hear. “It hurts to think about. I feel so sorry for your Master...and for Scorpan too. I...I wish there was something we could do, at least to help Scorpan.”

“Well…since you mentioned, “ Doc smiled and scooted closer to her. “If you’re feeling up for it, maybe go and say thank you for helping with your wing, and giving us a place to stay to recuperate. Perhaps share some rainbows to make him smile.”

“Very funny…” she shrugged.

“No, really I’m serious,“ he placed a friendly hand on her head. “You do have your own way of making others smile. After all, it’s in your talent.”

Bliss looked up and smiled at him, but her ears drooped back in fear.

“What if he yells at me again?”

“Hmm,” Doc patted her head reassuringly. “Well, then at least you tried. But it’s up to you Lightning, I won’t force you to do anything you’re not comfortable with. I just figured it was worth a shot.”

“Hmm… that’s fair,” she sighed and slowly got up. “Alright, I’ll go... Ouchy…” she grunted as she took a step, “I really hope this won’t hurt forever.”

“I’m sure it won’t. Good luck!”

Bliss slowly made her way to the tunnel Scorpan had left through an hour ago, and crept inside.  Lighting her horn to guide the way in the dark unknown, she picked her hooves up one at a time as she walked while slowly touching them down on the hard ground to avoid making clapping sounds. Fear was slowly picking up as she descended into the void, not knowing what she’ll find at it’s end, other than the possibility of an angry creature much more powerful than she was. 

Finally, after a few seconds that felt like several minutes, the rainbow alicorn spotted a dancing orange warm light at the end of the tunnel. There she could see Scorpan, sitting on a stool hunched over, intently reading a book he was holding. He hadn’t yet spotted her to her relief and she slowly made her way up to him, wondering how to get his attention.

'A simple “Hello” or “Thank You” to catch his attention would have sufficed Bliss..'.she thought to herself. But just as she was close enough to make out the title of the book he was reading, her curiosity got the best of her and she blurted out:

“'Star Swirl the Bearded's Magic Book'? You have a copy?”

“WHO DARES?!!!” Scorpan roared out leaping to his feet, his wings out and teeth bared ready to attack. Lightning squeaked in terror and cowered at his feet. 

“Oh- it’s you…” the gargoyle sighed, lowering his fists. “What are you doing out of bed?”

“I’m…” Bliss managed to squeak up at him, “I’m feeling much better now? And I...I just wanted to say-”

“Spit it out!”

“Gah I...I…” she tried to say the words, but admittedly Scorpan’s booming face and demanding presence kept her submissive. 

The massive gargoyle glared down at the mare, noticing her shaking demeanor, and in that he sighed before attempting to speak in a softer tone. “I’m...No...I apologize for snapping,” he said sitting back down. “I have little patience and I’m not used to having company…You don’t need to be frightened of me...I am just a little new to socializing with others.” 

He watched her look up to him, still nervous but at least it was a change, 

“So what is it that you want to say to me, little pony?

“Um,” she stuttered, “Th-th-thank you...f-f-for helping me and my friend Doc...Th-that-ssss...all I wanted to say…I’m...I’m sorry for disturbing you.” 

With that Bliss bowed her head and turned on her back hooves to leave, clearly not wanting to be yelled at anymore. Scorpan’s face seemed to droop even more as she turned, and placed his book back on the shelf.

“Wait…” the gargoyle called out to her, “I...don’t really want to be alone right now. If you wanted to talk to me...You can.” 

The rainbow alicorn stopped and looked back at him.

“It’s been a while since I had someone to talk to...So… you know of 'Star Swirl’s Magic Book' and its lessons I’m guessing?”

Hesitantly Bliss turned back towards him, taking a cautious step forward.

“Well...not really, no sir,” she took a seat in front of him a few feet away, “I’ve just heard about it. I know Princess Twilight completed a spell of his that he couldn’t finish. It’s what helped her become an alicorn in the first place. A part of me was kinda curious if his book might be able to help me with...my magic one day. But with all the changes going on in Equestria-”

“What changes?” Scorpan asked her, but she continued.

“-after Tirek, Chrysalis and Cozy Glow attacked,” her words began to ramble, “and there was a large battle to fight them off with the help of all Equestrians, dragons, gryphons, changelings, hippogryphs and-”

“Wait what?”

“-and Princess Celestia, Luna and Discord imprisoning them in stone, followed by Twilight’s coronation to become the new ruler of Equestria and-”

“STOP!” Scorpan slammed his fist on the shelf making her leap from her flanks, “Tirek is trapped in STONE?!!! EXPLAIN THIS TO ME!”

“I’m...I’m sorry...I didn’t think…” she squeaked at his anger, “Tirek...he...He escaped Tartarus...joined forces with two other villains in another attempt to take over Equestria...but he and his comrades were stopped…”

She watched the hulking mountain of a gargoyle as his mouth hung open for several seconds before recoiling back, his eyes filling with tears. Abruptly he placed a clawed hand to cover his eyes.

“So...he’s been turned to stone has he?”

“Y-yes, sir.”

A dark and eerie silence filled the cave as Bliss waited for a response. The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife. She could sense he was hurting, but wasn’t quite sure how to address his anger or sadness until finally she approached him cautiously.

“S-Scorpan?” she chirped “Are you...okay?” No response so she continued, “I’m...I’m so sorry…” 

Sensing not much else she could do, Bliss lowered her head figuring it best to leave him be, but as she took a step back, she felt a gentle arm wrap around her neck that held her in place. She could hear muffled tears trying to be held back by his efforts. 

“Forgive me...please don’t leave,” Scorpan choked back a sob, “I’m...I’m actually relieved. Relieved that my brother can no longer hurt others anymore...but at the same time...I wish he...I just wish he could have…” He felt the pony turn and place a friendly hoof on his knee.

“You wish he could have seen things differently?”

He nodded. 

“If Tirek had been victorious,” the gargoyle continued, “he would have doomed everything we know...It’s good that he’s in a place where he’ll never be able to enact harm on Equestrians anymore...but...I cannot help but admit that it still hurts...because he is my brother. I pity him more than anything, I’m glad he’s in stone...but at the same time, ...I wish I could have helped him...Why couldn’t I have encouraged him to stop what he was doing...I just...GAAAAAAAAH!” He rubbed his head in frustration, “why is this so hard to explain to you!?”

She watched him rub his head, letting him get out his conflict and confusion. In that moment of clarity and hearing how he felt, she realized something unique about Scorpan. For once she felt like she met someone who in a way experienced a familiar pain that she had felt before. Her eyes opened wide in realization and placed a hoof in his hand.

“I wish things could have been different for him,” she calmly spoke, “a part of me wishes that...maybe if he could remember there was someone out there, waiting for him to come home...a family member like you. But… If it helps you Mr. Scorpan… none of what he did was ever your fault. His choices were his own, not yours.”

He slowly nodded at her.

“I’m aware…” Scorpan sighed then asked, “Did...did it hurt him...when he was turned to stone?”

“I honestly do not know sir,” Bliss lowered her head, “I wasn’t there when it happened. I think it was quick though. But… if you ever wanted to see him… I believe they are putting him and his comrade’s statue in the Canterlot Gardens where he’ll be safe. You...could potentially see him if you...wanted to?”

He placed a hand on her head, stroking it in what seemed to be an effort to calm his nerves.

“I’m...not sure I want to at this point,” Scorpan replied. “Knowing what he tried to do, not once, not twice but three times...I’m not sure I want to see him again. Though that does sound cruel to say out loud.”

“Funny you mention that…” she patted his knee, “I actually understand what you mean.”

“Do you now? You have a sibling encased in stone for crimes against Equestria?”

“No, sir. But…” She bit her lip, seeming hesitant to share. “I do know what it's like not wanting to see a sibling anymore...My older sister.”

“Ha,” he shrugged and took his hand off her head, “Don’t make me laugh, I’m sure you pony folk are incapable of abandoning one of your own no matter what.”

“Actually Cozy Glow was a pony,” she retorted back with a snort, sitting down in front of him, “She helped Tirek a few times to accomplish his goals, and is one of the villains encased in stone with him.”

Again Scorpan shrugged, huffing in disbelief.

“I’m just saying…” she continued, “if you’d take the time to listen and not grunt at me. It’s true my sister didn’t commit a crime against Equestria, but she did so against me and my family.” 

His eyebrows raised at her mentioning the word family, and listened in as she continued.

“When I was a filly, me and my siblings lost our father. And when this happened...my sister, being the eldest pony, did try to help when things got hard for the rest of us. But then one day she ended up taking all his bits and fleeing, abandoning us to struggle to make ends meet.  My mother did her best with my stepfather to raise us despite not being well off themselves, and we somehow managed to get by. It’s been years now and... I never saw her again...and honestly,” she looked up to him with her eyes red and forming tears, “I don't want to find her.”

Scorpan was surprised to hear a pony, for the first time, stating that they were unwilling to rekindle a bond with family. 'An older sibling betraying the others? Taking their money and abandoning them at the worst of times after losing their father? But how? I thought ponies were all about family and friendship?'

“It does hurt to say that,” Scorpan heard her continue, snapping him from his shock, “But...after everything she did to me and my family...I just can’t force myself to seek her out. Some believe that it would do me some good to see her and let go of the past...I'd argue that she cannot hurt me anymore if she’s no longer a part of my life. And...So…” she placed her hoof back on his knee, tearing up a bit, “It’s okay to feel this way...if they hurt you so much that you wish to cut them from your life… There’s...there’s no shame in that. There shouldn’t be shame in that. You can’t be angry at someone who isn’t a part of your life anymore…”

“Hey ...hey, hey, hey there…” Scorpan frantically scooped her up with heavy concern in his voice, “If you cry you’re gonna make yourself sick again.”

“I’m so sorry…” she hung in his hands, sniffing loudly, “I just… I...I admit it hurts to say these things and I just...hate to see someone else hurt like this. Our stories might be different but the outcome is the same...It hurts to lose a family member...but sometimes they leave us no choice...And I’m…” she sobbed, “I’m so sorry Scorpan…”

“Are...are you…” he held her up higher as if to inspect her face, “Are you crying...over me? 

She looked down at him for a moment then looked away seeming embarrassed of her tears but said nothing.

“But why are you crying for me?” he asked gently. “We’ve only met today, why are you sad for me?”

“W-why not?” she cried out. “You’re hurting aren’t you? No one should...should ever have to feel this way. I just wish I could...do something to help...make the pain and sadness stop for you...”

As if on cue to her request, her horn began to glow involuntarily...it sparkled and flickered, emitting a beautiful soft rainbow light, glittering all over the cave walls. Scorpan looked at the dazzling soft display in awe. He had not seen a rainbow in many decades, not since he left the Equestrian lands. He had honestly thought he would never see one again after he left, and was happy to be proven wrong. He smiled and brought her down to his eye level.

“Heh…you know something little, Lightning Bliss?” He lifted her chin up so she looked back at him. “You’re getting cute on me.”

“I’m not cute…” she sputtered trying to clean up her face.

“Those rainbows you’re making aren’t exactly helping your claim on that my dear.” He wiped a tear out of her eye. “Lovely display of magic by the way.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she huffed, wiggling in his arms, not even noticing her horn was acting out. “I’m not cute and I demand you put me down please!”

“You’re a brave one too.” He chuckled, “You remind me of a General I met long ago.”

“A general? Who?” She asked as he placed her down.

“She was the general of a pegasus team...Fire Flat? Firefly? I think that’s what her name was.”

“Firefly… I remember her!” She exclaimed in excitement, “Wow, you must be really erm...Well heh, I wasn’t around when she was that’s for sure.”

“Were you just about to say I’m old?”

She squeaked and remained silent at the accusation.

“Heh…” He grinned showing his teeth. “Be that as it may… you really should still be resting. Come, let’s get you back to the fire.”

“Oh, oh okay,” she followed him as he led the way out. “But before I forget: thank you.”

“Pardon?”

“That’s what I really wanted to come down to talk to you for. Thank you for saving my life, and saving my friend.” She smiled reflecting on her friendship with Doc. “He’s… like a brother to me if you can believe it.”

“I figured as much,” he patted her head again as they walked, “and it’s no trouble at all. But, don’t thank me yet, you still need to get better. Um...and just between you and me.” He stopped and leaned down to whisper into her ear. “I really don’t want you getting sicker, otherwise your so-called ‘wolf brother’ might get cross with me again...I noticed how scary he got when I treated you a little rough back there. Sorry again for that.”

“Doc scared you?” She giggled, “The little pupper?”

“For a little 'pupper' he’s got a big bark…”

She let out a laugh just as they made it back to the main part of the cavern where Doc was waiting. He breathed a sigh of relief seeing them entering out together and stood up to meet them.

“Oh, Scorpan!” Doc approached, “I’m glad to see you return.” 

“You are?” Scorpan asked genuinely confused before feeling Bliss elbow him in the leg. “I mean erm...I would like to apologize for the rude exit before, Doctor Wolf. I believe it’s what you would call, getting some air. Your mare sister here was kind enough to cheer me up.”

“Did she now?” Doc grinned at Bliss, who promptly stuck her tongue out at him. “Charming.”

“Well,” she retorted playfully, “I had a good mentor who encouraged me to try. After all..”

“It’s good to be helping.” Both Bliss and Doc said together before chuckling to each other. 

Scorpan looked between the two in confusion. Scratching his head and placing his hand on his hip, wondering if he should laugh with them or wait till they were finished. After an awkward moment of them giggling to each other, he spoke up.

“Well,” Scorpan interrupted, “it’s nice to have company at home for once. Maybe one of these days I’ll try to make it back to Equestria someday. See what I have missed. Thank you both for being my first guests regardless. Hopefully next time it won’t be under harsh circumstances.”

“It’s never too late to visit Mr. Scorpan,” Doc replied back. “Equestria is a warm and welcoming place. In fact, I remember when my brother and I traveled there, and when I gave it a chance, I discovered my calling to help and serve others. It’s also where I met all these wonderful ponies I call my dearest friends…” He smiled, placing a paw on Bliss’s shoulder to make his point.

“It’s also the least we can do,” Bliss added in wrapping her good wing in a hug around Doc. “Thank you for helping us.”

“Indeed.” Doc choked out from the hug. “But I hope you can one day be at peace despite all that’s happened to you and your brother. I am....sad to say that his choices in life have left him in a state where...well…”

“No need to explain his current circumstances Doctor,” Scorpan said lifting his hand up, “Lightning more or less bluntly spoiled that part.”

Doc’s mouth dropped at this sudden announcement and turned to Bliss frowning at her as if to say ‘Could you have been more tactful about that?’

“Please don’t be too hard on her,” Scorpan cut in before Doc could have words. “It may have been better I found out this way then beat around the bush. I accept that my brother is in a place now where he can’t hurt anyone else, and should I decide to, maybe one day I will return to Equestria, and confront him one on one, even if he's made of stone.”

“I understand,” Doc nodded in response before giving out a rather loud wolf yawn. “Goodness...excuse me…”

“Not a problem, here,” Scorpan headed to another shelf and pulled out another blanket and pillow for Doc. “Both of you should get some rest. I’ll work on a better splint tonight to help make that wing more stable for your journey tomorrow, Lightning Bliss. But for now, you two should get some rest.”

“Tomorrow?” Bliss yawned as well just as obnoxiously loud as Doc did.

“Yes,” Scorpan replied while encouraging her back to the rugs. “You're healing fast and the fever appears to have broken, but I cannot mend your wing with the tools and ointments I have. I think it’s best that once I stabilize you in the morning, you two can make a journey back to see a proper doctor in your home. I also figured you both are missing them by now.” 

“Hmm,” Doc reflected. “My Lady is bound to be wondering where I am…”

“Not to mention Twink and Subby…” Bliss agreed. “They must be really worried."

“Hmm…” Doc nodded in agreement.

“That’s what I thought,” Scorpan nodded before pouring some water over the fireplace, further dimming the light out of the cave so they could properly sleep. “So rest up you two. In the morning I’ll take you to the edge of my territory. From there if you travel an hour down the road I point you on, you’ll find a desert town in the badlands. You can charter a Sky Ferrier to take you back to Equestria. Here…” He handed Doc some bits. “That should be enough for the both of you.”

“But...but how can we pay you back Mr. Scorpan?” Doc resisted, but Scorpan waved his hand absently.

“Consider it a gift, for being a friendly ear, Doctor Wolf.” The brown aged being smiled back, his voice seeming calmer than before.

“I...well,” Doc looked down at the bits, then to Bliss who was grinning back at him.  He sighed but smiled back at the generous donation. “Very well. Thank you kindly Scorpan.”

“Think nothing of it. Good night you two.”

“Good night!” Both Bliss and Doc replied before curling up in their rug nests for the night.
> Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

True to his word, Scorpan set off as soon as a wing brace was made to fit Lightning Bliss’s wing. It was clearly fractured in places but the brace he made was of excellent craftsmanship. She whinnied with relief knowing she could walk without it constantly causing her pain rubbing up against her. With that sorted the gargoyle led them through the dark desert and thorny giant vines, avoiding the winds as they went. It wasn’t nearly as bad in the day as it was during the night to Doc’s relief. A few hours later, they came to a road where the vines all but seemed to disappear against the hot murky desert. Admittedly, Doc had some nasty flashbacks when he traveled the same sands with his Master. He wasn’t looking forward to the sun constantly beating down on them, nor the sand getting in between his paws. Bliss, on the other hand, took a deep breath and slowly made her way on the road with Doc following close behind. However, both stopped realizing Scorpan was watching them leave. Biting her lip and choking back a tear, she ran back to Scorpan and leapt into his arms. The large brown winged creature instinctively caught her in surprise and was left stunned in silence as he felt the soft white mare wrap her arms around his neck tightly in a hug.

“Thank you, thank you so very much,” she coughed out as she cried. “If...if this is really goodbye then...I promise I’ll never forget you. For what you did for us. You are a brave creature Scorpan, and I hope one day you might come back and visit Equestria again someday.” 

She calmly let go of Scorpan and slid down before heading back to Doc, waving goodbye.

“S-stick to the road,” Scorpan called out to them seeming to rub a tear from his eye as he did. “It will take you to the town. Keep a steady pace and you should be there in an hour!” 

“We shall, and fare thee well Scorpan,” Doc called back. “Thank you for everything!”

“To you as well! My friends…” Scorpan waved his hand back, a smile forming around his muzzle.

Doc and Bliss continued to wave back to their new friend till he was a speck on the horizon, then continued forward on their journey down the rocky paved road. Needless to say they quickened their pace with the sun high over their heads beating down on their backs. There was a time where Doc was forced to unbutton the collar of his shirt if only to avoid it from getting covered in sweat and allow his fur to breathe. Lightning, on the other hand, kept her head down and low, sweating herself but keeping a determined pace to make it back to civilization. For once the roles were reversed, whereas Doc was in a better element against the cold, she was better suited to the heat. 

Before long though, Bliss could see the truth to Scorpan’s claims, as they spotted the town he spoke of just beyond a hill. It was a filthy, dirty town, clearly showing signs of the battle against the elements, but to their relief they could see fellow creatures they recognize, such as hippogryphs and even other ponies amongst other beings, resembling that of fish, cats, and even lizards. Apparently, this town had been recognized by the Equestrian lands as a stopping point before reaching the Hippogryph kingdoms.  Or at least, they assumed so based on the welcome signs, guiding new visitors to their travel destinations. It wasn’t long before they spotted the Sky Ferries, where they paid for tickets to Canterlot, Equestria. Both agreed this was the best deal they could get, as this way they would have some bits saved for refreshments.  Later they'd be able to make it to Ponyville through Bliss’s teleportation, now that her magic was recovering as well.

They made their way onto the ferry ramp where Bliss decided to go to the top of the deck. She paid for a few snacks with the extra bits Doc gave her. After which, helping herself to some water they were offering for free, the rainbow alicorn parked herself near the railing to enjoy the view. Doc took on a well-deserved glass of water, and then joined Lightning to relax on their last leg of travel.

“Quite the adventure we both just had,” the arctic wolf sipped his drink peacefully as he made conversation.

“One I care NEVER to do again,” Bliss chuckled back. “At least not with Timber Wolves, a broken wing, and scary deserts, or you losing your vest.”

“Agreed.” He sighed, feeling not fully himself without his signature purple vest. “But at least a few good things came out of it.”

“We made a new friend?” She smiled as she continued staring back into the horizon.

“We also helped a new friend.” He smiled back enjoying the view. “It always feels good when you help another in need.”

“He helped us too, probably when we were at our worst.” The rainbow alicorn turned to her wolven brother. “I guess we helped each other too.”

“I suppose so. While I regret how things may have started out, I wouldn’t wish to change them either.” He turned to her giving a happy smile in return. “It gives us new perspectives, new opportunities, and new ways to help each other.”

“In the end, we did it together.”

“Indeed we did.”

“I’m glad you were with me Doc.”

“I am too Lightning.”

Both beamed at each other, then continued watching the scenery float by underneath them as the ferry made its way to their destination. A few hours later, just as the sun was setting down, the peaks of Canterlot Castle began to poke up over the horizon. They were almost home.

“Do you think…” Lightning spoke softly, a hint of sadness in her voice, “we’ll ever see Scorpan again, Doc?”

“I’d like to think so. One day Lightning. One day.”

-- The End --