The Recovery after the Battle
I was sitting on a couch watching the clock tick away the seconds. I yawned and laid back on the couch. I held my head back and closed my eyes. The sound of water was heard to my left in the bathroom. It sounded like someone was taking a shower. I started to wonder if this was a memory or a dream. Though something about this felt familiar, like deja vu. I felt relaxed and tried to recall the battle, but nothing happened. I just sat there for a while, until the water shut off and silence filled the room. I heard some noises and sounds, like someone was drying themselves and getting dressed. The door to the bathroom then opened and a soft warm voice was heard that caused my heart to skip a beat.
“All done. Trying to take a nap?” The voice asked.
My eyes opened and I took in a sight that I haven’t seen in a long while. Dressed in gym shorts, sandals and a cute green t-shirt was Kaila. She had let her hair down, that went down to her middle back. Her hair was wet from the shower but the dark red color of her hair was amazing. She was in peak physical condition, her chest held D cup breasts, her butt was nicely shaped, she was slim but not too skinny and her arms and legs had some muscle to them. Her face was the best of her for me, she had beautiful dark blue eyes that seemed to burn a hot but calming fire.
I wasn’t in control of my actions, which meant this was a memory and I was just watching. My body sat up and smiled. “Nah, just relaxed a little too much.” I answered.
Kaila smiled and giggled. Her giggles and laughs were something I worked hard to get, since they were very blissful moments for me. She just had the best giggle and laugh. She rolled her eyes. “Yeah okay. You and I both know well you got bored.” She winked.
I chuckled. “Yeah, pretty much. What can I say, I get bored really easily.”
She walked right and out onto a balcony. I got up and walked to the balcony door. The sun was drying her hair, as it did her hair started turning more red. I walked up beside her and leaned on the rail. We both looked over the balcony at our backyard.
The house we lived in was in a secluded area, not too far from the nearest town, but just far enough away to have peace, quiet and the local wildlife stroll through the yard with no fear. Just below the balcony was a small garden that contained flowers of various types, collected by Kalia and planted here to help improve the atmosphere and make the home more pleasant. I noticed a few bunnies were roaming around the small garden, there were also a couple deer just wandering around. The soft cool breeze of summer was blowing, sounds of birds chirping, water flowing without restraint and the smell of nature was in the air. To our left was a rather medium sized forest where the trees were large and healthy. Our parking garage and driveway was on the right with a paved road half a mile out.
The setting was more than enough to make me smile. I closed my eyes for a brief minute and just took in the sounds and smells of the area.
“Sarius?” Kaila started. I opened my eyes and looked at her. “Can we still have this moment?” She asked. “I mean, after this war we’re fighting.” She added as she looked me in the eyes.
I nodded. “Of course we can. I don’t see how we can’t. Besides,” I paused a second and turned my attention back to the view I was enjoying. “These kinds of moments, are what we wait for. And to be honest.” I turned back to look Kaila in the eyes again. “I think it’s worth the wait. Don’t you think so too?” I asked.
She nodded. “Yeah. Definitely.”
She stayed quiet for a while before speaking up again. “Sarius, why are we fighting? What can we possibly accomplish winning this war? Wars are pointless. They just cause more pain and suffering. And some wars were started over a stupid idea that seemed good at the time. So why?”
I leaned off the balcony. “Everyone has their own reason and purpose for what they do. While it’s true that wars are pointless and solve nothing, it doesn’t mean the battles that are fought have no meaning.” I looked up and stared at the deep blue sky in thought. “I fight to protect and save those who aren’t strong enough to, but also partly because I believe I’m the only one who is willing to fight for them. Perhaps, that can be a good enough reason for you too.”
Kaila thought about it for a minute before nodding and smiling. “Yeah, that’s good enough for me. Thank you, Sarius. I’m glad to have you here by my side.” Kaila started blushing. “Can… you make a promise to me?” Kaila asked.
“Sure, anything.”
“I want you to promise me, you’ll be by my side when I need you the most.” She looked away in embarrassment.
Kaila was always a tough but sweetly kind girl on the outside and rarely showed her sensitive and passionate side to others. That kind of side was only seen by those she really trusts, but even then she wants to be seen as a strong and independent female considering what she’s been through. It made moments like this more memorable for me.
I softly grabbed her chin and turned her head towards me. “I promise, Kaila. And I want you to do the same for me.” I said.
Kaila’s eyes started to light up showing her very soul was happy. “I will, because I love you very much, Sarius.”
“And I love you just as much too, Kaila.” I replied.
We leaned in closer to each other, closed our eyes and felt our lips connect. The kiss was passionate, short but showed a strong sense of love. After a few seconds our lips parted and we pressed our foreheads together in a loving manner and stared into each other’s eyes with a sense of joy. My attention was slowly panning away from the embrace to the pendant that hung around my neck. Everything slowly turned black expect the pendant which started to emit a sky blue glow, a color I realized was symbolizing the color of Enegtris. After a minute the glowing pendant too faded to black as a steady beep was heard and slowly rising in volume, pulling me out of the memory and back into reality.
I slowly opened my eyes and was forced to keep my right eye shut due to a bright light from the window. My vision slowly adapted to the light and both my eyes were soon opened. I looked to my right and saw the window where the light was shining through. The sun was apparently rising which meant it was morning. I then looked left and saw an IV that was attached to my left arm, a heart monitor which was steadily beeping and a curtain that separated me from the empty bed next to me. The rest of the room looked like a typical hospital resting room. End tables for flowers and get well gifts, curtains that curled around the beds, cabinets that contained various medical supplies and some chairs for visitors to sit in.
I took the bed sheet that was covering me off, folded it and put it on the end table. I sat up and checked my body for bruises and signs of pain. As I figured there were no bruises or sharp pains. I did however feel cramps in my wings, since I was lying on my back it made sense. I started to wonder how long I was in this hospital for then a thought crossed my mind. I laid against the headboard on the back of the bed, closed my eyes and begun to shut out the beeping.
I had to make sure the union worked as intended so I called out to Kasulis. For a few moments there was silence, but he eventually spoke as he appeared right next to me as a sort of ghostly figure. “I’m here, Sarius.”
I breathed a sigh of relief. “Good. That’s the first, and hopefully only, time we reunited willingly. I needed to make sure it worked.”
As I looked at him, I realized his appearance was slightly different. Firstly, his slightly darker tone of red was still there and his claws and teeth still had a rustic look to them, but he looked much cleaner than usual. The scars, wounds and traces of battle injuries on his body were gone. He could easily pass off as me and no one could tell the difference. Not to mention his posture and the way he presents himself has softened up by a large degree.
“I know I suddenly look a bit different. I’m pretty sure it’s because I let go of all the anger and hatred I had towards you. It was… kind of hard to hold on to it after what you said and showed me.”
I winced recalling the vision I was trying to show him. “It’s hard to imagine that’s our current future.”
Kasulis frowned. “Indeed. What’s even harder to believe is that this being might be in the Web of Reality called Equestria.”
I turned to look at him and ask what he meant by that but the sound of a door opening snapped me back to reality and the sound of hooves approaching was heard. A white mare with a pink mane and tail, blue eyes, a cutie mark of a red cross with hearts on the four corners and a nurse’s cap with her cutie mark embedded on it walked past the curtains and into my view. She was carrying a clipboard with a pen attached to it. She looked at me and started smiling.
“Ah, Mr. Trusdale. I see you finally woke up.” She walked up to the left side of the bed which was leveled a head and half lower than her, now that I could see a comparison. She checked the IV and proceeded to perform check-ups on me. She walked to the counter on the other side of the bed, grabbed the stethoscope, walked back to me and placed it on my heart. “Take deep breaths.” She instructed. I did so, taking a slow deep breath followed by releasing it slowly. This went on for a full minute before she put the stethoscope around her neck. She then started pressing on various parts of my body, my chest, arms, legs and neck with increased pressure asking if I felt anything. I responded with no each time. After that she grabbed a flashlight and shone the light in my eyes asking if I’m experiencing any headaches, dizziness or any other symptoms, to which I answered no. Then she put the flashlight away and started writing on the pad. She paused, then asked “How are you feeling overall?”
“I’m feeling good. In fact I’ve never felt better in my life. I finally feel whole again.” I smiled.
The mare tilted her head in confusion with a mix of curiosity. “You feel whole? What do you mean by that?” She asked.
My eyes widen in realization. Of course she didn’t know. I chuckled and rubbed the back of my head in slight embarrassment. “Oh, right. Long story short, I had a split personality of sorts that has its own independent function. For the longest time my two personalities have fought each other, but very recently we stopped fighting and accepted each other. So the bottom line is I feel whole again.” It took me a minute to realize what I said sounded crazy. “There’s no reason to put me under watch doc, It’s not a problem anymore.”
The mare just looked at me for a minute, then smiled. “I see. I’m glad you’re doing better and I wasn’t thinking of putting you under watch.” She paused for a second. “Unless of course, you desire to be put under watch. After all, some ponies have said that it’s not a problem only to be put under watch.” She added, her expression being more serious. My eyes widened and I shook my head really fast. Her expression softened up suddenly and started laughing. “I’m only kidding, Mr. Trusdale. I believe and trust you. But if it becomes a problem the option is open to you.” She then went back to writing on the pad as I breathed a sigh of relief. She must have heard me sigh since she giggled a little. After another minute or two, with the nurse switching her attention from her clipboard to me and back, she seemed to finish her diagnosis. “Okay, it seems everything checks out Mr. Trusdale. You’re in a much better condition than before. So is there anything you want to ask of me before I leave?” She said as she turned to me, putting the clipboard away and sitting in a nearby chair.
“Your name would be a nice start.” I stated knowing well that she never introduced herself.
Her eyes widened as the realization finally hit her. “Oh, I apologize. I completely forgot to introduce myself to you. I was supposed to do that before I did the check-up. My name is Redheart. It’s a pleasure to meet you Mr. Trusdale.”
Everytime she said ‘mr’ I cringed a little. “One thing I like to mention to you is there’s no need to call me Mr. Trusdale. Just Trusdale is fine. I don’t like others having to use terms for authority with me.”
Redheart nodded. “Okay, I understand Trusdale. Any other questions?”
“A few in fact. Firstly, what hospital am I in?” I asked.
“The Ponyville General Hospital on the outskirts of town. The hospital is fairly large, not as big or impressive as the hospitals in other towns or cities, but it’s certainly good enough to help take care of the folks in Ponyville. Though I should mention pony hospitals have more experience with ponies and not other species. This particular hospital has experience with zebras since one lives here. I will admit you were quite a challenge to handle Trusdale. No pony hospital has cared for a dragon aside from this hospital and Canterlot that have treated Spike who is Twilight’s assistant. Though he’s obviously a lot younger and less mature than a regular dragon. Surprisingly, your body structure and antomatny is almost similar to ponies.” She finished.
“I can’t really explain the similar body structure and antomanty since it might be crazy to believe. So let’s just be thankful for that. Also a Zebra lives here in Ponyville?” I asked in response.
Redheart nodded. “Yes, but she doesn’t live in Ponyville itself but instead she has a hut in the Everfree Forest. I wonder how she can live in that forest with the dangers and threats that lurk in there.”
“Maybe she found means of repelling or fending off the creatures and such. If you live in a dangerous or isolated place long enough you start to learn ways of surviving. I know from personal experience.” I paused for a second before asking my next question, one I was kinda hesitating on asking. “How long have I been out?”
Redheart placed a hoof on her chin thinking. “Hmm. I would say about a week at least. When the Mane Six and the Royal Sisters, to everypony’s surprise, came in and had you check in, they seemed panicked. When we got to check on you, we found you were in a comatose state. We did some examining on you to find the cause. Your body was covered in scratches, bruises and burn marks. We were shocked that a dragon like you could get burn marks like those. We eventually found out you merely collapsed from sheer exhaustion and collective nerve pain. So we just had you put into a room with an IV, a heart monitor and a nurse doing constant check-ups on you to ensure you were still alive. Everything was normal afterwards. Your heart rate did increase quite a bit for a short time but it didn’t seem major. You must have had some pleasant dreams.” I gave a pleasant smile telling her yes. She giggled and continued. “After some time we noticed the injuries disappeared suddenly. They were there one day and gone the next. We couldn’t figure out how or why that happened, wounds like that don’t disappear overnight.”
I decided to cut in and give an explanation. “I have a healing factor in the form of an Accelerated Regeneration. It must have finally kicked in at that point.”
“Oh, I see. That makes more sense. Though if you have that benefit why be admitted into a hospital?” She asked, feeling curious suddenly.
“Simple. In certain situations it doesn’t work like it’s supposed to or it doesn’t activate at all, in which case I want to be on surveillance to ensure I stay alive.” I answered.
“Ah. Anyway that’s all that happened.” She finished.
“A week huh? Well, that’s not bad considering my record.”
She raised an eyebrow up in interest and concern. “Your record? Pray tell, what’s the longest?” She asked.
I looked at her with a serious face. “I’m pretty sure you don’t want to know.” I sighed. “But if you really need to know, the longest I’ve been out was 3 months.”
Redheart’s eyes shot open. She was in absolute shock. I could tell very easily. She began stuttering before talking fully again. “T-T-T-Three m-m-m-months! By Celestia!! What in Equestria happened to put you out for that long?” She asked without thinking it through.
I shook my head. “You’re better off not knowing. It’s very crazy and hard to believe as it is. Even I find it hard to believe. In any case let’s not dwell on that since I still have a question.” I said cutting the subject off at the root to keep from answering it. Redheart came back to her senses and understood I didn’t want to continue with the subject.
“Very well. What is your next question?”
“Have I had visitors?” I asked plainly.
Redheart nodded. “Oh yes. Quite a few. I believe everypony I mentioned earlier has visited you at least once. Though Princess Luna only came during the night, she visited nonetheless. The most common visitor was Fluttershy. Why, I can assume she has visited you 5 days out the entire week and she stayed until visiting hours were over and she was asked to go home. If I didn’t know better, I would say she’s taken quite a liking to you.” As she said that, I blushed a little. It was barely visible on my red scales, but somehow Redheart knew I was. “Spike even paid a visit by himself. Even the younger sisters of Applejack, Rarity and Rainbow Dash came to see you. You’re quite popular, Trusdale.” She finished.
A few seconds later, there was a knock on the door and another nurse opened the door. This mare had a horn, scarlet red mane and tail that were both braided in a ponytail and the mane went down to the middle of her neck. Her fur color was a calm light blue, her eye color was dark green and her cutie mark was an arrow shooting through a circle, indicating she was really good with a bow. It dawned on me why she would be working at a hospital. Maybe she was earning money.
She smiled at me and walked to Redheart. “Mr. Trusdale has some visitors.” She said, her voice was sweet but with a hint of confidence, like she was able to handle herself in a fight.
Redheart nodded and got up from the chair. “Your vitals check out and you’re in good condition. I’ll sign your release form tonight and you’ll be free to go tomorrow so long as you’re still healthy in the morning. I’ll take the I.V. out since you’re awake now. It was a pleasure to meet you, Trusdale. Take good care of yourself.” Redheart took the I.V. out before walking out.
“Chances are I’ll be in this hospital a few times. So we’ll be seeing each other again.” I called out.
Redheart turned toward me and gave me a sly look. “What are you trying to say? That you're gonna get yourself hurt on purpose to see me more often, or you're gonna be getting into some trouble that results in you being here?” She asked.
I smiled. “The latter to an extent. I’ll tell you now, I don’t often go looking for trouble because trouble always comes looking for me.”
Redheart smiled back. “Well if that’s the case, I’ll be happy to look after you. I’ll see you during your next visit Trusdale.” With that she walked out while the other mare took one more good look at me before following her out. After a minute there was another knock on the door but no one came in. I realized immediately whoever it was was waiting for me to call 'em in.
“You can come in.” I said in a loud tone so my voice would carry past the room and through the door. A few seconds later a pink alicorn with a long goldish, magenta and purple mane & tail along with a white unicorn with a dark blue mane & tail came in. Princess Cadence and Shining Armor came to visit.
“Sarius! You’re awake. We heard you were in a coma.” Cadence announced rushing over to me and pulling me into a tight hug that caused me to gasp for air. For a young and small alicorn, compared to Luna, she had quite a bit of strength.
“If you don’t ease up, I might be back in a coma.” I joked.
“OH I’m sorry!!” Cadence shouted as her eyes shot open and let go, placing her front hooves on the bed. I took a deep breath. “It’s good to see you're alright at least.” She smiled.
“It was somewhat hard to believe you were out for a whole week, my friend.” Shining armor spoke up. “By the way, here,” He used his magic to pull out a single crystal corn on the cob out of the saddle bag he was wearing. “We know you’re not supposed to eat anything but what the hospital gives you, so this will be our little secret.” He winked as he handed the corn to me.
I smiled. “Thanks, Shining.” I took the corn and started eating it. Already feeling my energy swell up from the magic crystallized corn. My energy was filled up to full capacity thanks to a week of rest. After finishing the corn, I threw the cob into the nearest trash can. I belched a little and small energy particles came out of my mouth. “Excuse me. That’s a sure sign my body liked it. My energy is full now thanks to this.”
Cadence then took a moment to speak up. “So what happened to put you in the hospital like this, Sarius?” She asked with slight worry and major concern. I was taking a major liking to Cadence. She reminded me of my sister and Kaila, but mostly Kaila since when Cadence spoke, her voice seemed to speak from the heart. I told myself I need to consider her to be a sister to me, since a part of me was screaming at me that I was already in a big enough bind with two mares I have an affection for and need to choose between. Last thing I want is to add a third to the still growing problem. She is also married.
“Well, to put it simply, I got in a fight with myself.”
Both Shining and Cadence blinked. “With… yourself?” Cadence asked in disbelief.
“Yeah. I didn’t mention to you or Shining yet but not too long after I became a Hybrid, a tragic event occured that sent my negative emotions to dangerous levels. So much so I lost complete control of myself and don’t remember anything. When I regained control I-” I paused. I always loathed what I did. If I can even say it was me at all. I shook my head and decided to skip that part. “-I noticed a change in me. A darkness was formed from my negativity and it eventually gave birth to an alternate persona; Kasulis. Everytime Kasulis came out, he and I fought for control of our main body. So in short, I had a fight with Kasulis. Hopefully it’s the last time.”
“You hoping he’s gone for good?” Shining asked.
I shook my head. “Just the opposite. He and I were two halves of one soul. We managed to accept each other now and became whole finally. So I’m hoping we don’t have to fight each other anymore and instead fight together.”
Cadence and Shining smiled. “Shining and I will hope for the best then, Sarius.”
I smiled back. “Thanks. Kalia definitely wanted us to get along. In fact, it was her idea to begin with.”
“I see you’ve finally recovered, Sir Sarius.” Luna’s voice came from the window.
We all turned to see she teleported in and was standing in front of the window. She was staring at me. It was clear she was still a bit upset at my sudden collapse. “Sorry, Luna. I completely forgot the effects of fusing me and Kasulis together. I’ve always beat him to the point I can reabsorb him.”
Luna gave a sigh. “Just don’t scare us like that again.”
“I… can’t promise that but I will try. How are the others?”
“My sister and I are fine, the Mane Six are a bit shaken up, but they’ll be fine. I’m fairly certain this was their first ‘real’ battle.” Luna stated.
“Sombra doesn’t count?” Shining asked.
Luna shook her head. “I’m afraid not. Neither do Discord or Nightmare Moon. If I recall, the Mane Six didn’t actually fight in the literal sense. They just used the Elements of Harmony for a quick victory.”
“Discord, Nightmare Moon, and Elements of Harmony?” I asked.
If the three ponies didn’t know I wasn’t from another Reality they would have looked at me like I was crazy. “Discord is a draconequus that is able to use Chaos Magic. His control of Chaos Magic makes him powerful enough to contend with my sister and I. We had to use the Elements of Harmony to best him.” Luna explained.
“A draconequus huh. Also these Elements sound like weapons.” I stated.
“Not exactly. It’s unclear what made the Elements of Harmony as they came from the Tree of Harmony, which we also don’t know the origins of. As far as I know, the Elements and Tree can’t be used by evil. So the Elements can’t be used as weapons and are a last resort.” Luna explained.
“I see. Anything more you can tell me?”
“The Elements are 6 stones imbued with Harmonic Magic. They represent 6 qualities; Magic, Loyalty, Generosity, Honesty, Kindness, and Laughter.”
“Qualities of what?” I asked.
“Friendship.” Luna answered.
“And what about Nightmare Moon?”
I see Luna’s face darken a bit. “I must take my leave now. I stopped by because I was about to turn in for the day.”
“Turn in?” I look out the window. The sun was just now rising over the horizon. “You’re a night owl then?”
Luna blinked in confusion. “No, I’m an Alicorn. Princess of the Night.”
Cadence giggled and I chuckled a bit. “No, I meant you’re the type that sleeps during the day and is more active at night.”
“Oh. Then yes.” Luna’s horn lights up as she prepares a spell. “I shall be back later tonight, Sir Sarius. I wish to chat with you about some things.”
I smile. “I look forward to it, your highness.”
She smiles back before engulfing herself in a shadow and disappearing.
I turn to look at Cadence and Shining Armor, the latter is giving me a goofy grin. I raise an eyebrow. “What?” I asked.
“You know what. You managed to woo a Princess too, buddy.” Shining replied.
“That’s not what happened.” I said, trying to deny it. But I had the feeling he wasn’t wrong. Just a small feeling though.
Shining just gave me a knowing look. “Oh, I see. Trying to act cool about it huh? I get ya.”
Before I could retort, Cadence softly elbowed Shining in the chest. “Don’t listen to him, Sarius. Shining is just being a romantic goofball. Whether or not you and my aunt have a thing going on, is not our business unless you want it known.” Cadence gave me a reassuring smile for a couple seconds. “But I do recommend you work things out with her.”
“That’s not-”
Before I could finish repeating myself, Cadence shut my mouth with her hoof. “I never told you what I’m the princess of, did I?” I shake my head. She removes her hoof. “I’m the Princess of Love. So trust me when I say that if there’s any love connection, I can sense it. And I do sense a connection between you and Luna, albeit a tiny one.” Cadence can tell I’m not really convinced. “Just make sure she doesn’t get hurt, Sarius. I know what love can do to someone.”
“You have my word, Cadence. And my word is my bond.” I said proudly, causing Cadence to smile. “Mind if I ask a question?”
“Of course.”
“When I asked Luna about Nightmare Moon, she avoided the topic. Why?”
Cadence and Shining Armor both lost their smiles as they looked at each other, then back to me. “Because it’s a very sensitive topic for her. She was… Nightmare Moon.” I looked at the wall, understanding why it was a sensitive topic. “You’ll have to ask her for the details, but I can tell you she was sealed on the moon for a thousand years by Celestia. She just recently returned and was saved by Twilight and her friends using the Elements.”
The room went silent for a bit before Shining spoke up. “Speaking of Twilie, we should go and see her. That’s the main reason we came. No offense, Sarius. We heard you were in the hospital shortly after we arrived so we rushed right over.”
“I appreciate it. Go ahead and spend time with your sister.”
Cadence pulled me into a hug and Shining offered his hoof. I kinda figured he was asking for a bump, so I balled up my claw and bumped his hoof with it. Then they left me in the room with complete silence as my guest now. The only sound was the steady beep of the heart monitor.
Since I was gonna be alone for a long while, I closed my eyes, took steady deep breaths as I cleared my mind and meditated. In no time, I entered my subconscious where Kasulis was sitting down looking at something. As I walked closer, I noticed he was looking at a projected screen. On that screen was a memory of mine, that was now ours, the memory was about me talking to Kalia about what I assume was the two of us talking about Kasulis. I could hear me and Kalia’s voice from the screen but I didn’t pay attention since I remembered the whole thing. I tapped his shoulder. He simply looked at me without moving his head for a couple seconds before returning his attention to the screen.
“How many times have you replayed this particular memory?” I asked despite possibly knowing the answer.
Kasulis sighs as the screen goes blank. “Enough.” He turns his head to look at me finally. “When did you two have this discussion?”
“It was very recent. A little before I, or rather we, ended up on this Web, that for now is called Equestria.” I answered. “So you don’t need to be suspicious or upset at me for not bringing this up in the past.”
Kasulis stands up. “Fair enough. So we actually have twins?”
I look away with a bit of a blush. “Y-yes.”
Kasulis chuckles. “They are very adorable.”
I smirk. “Yeah, well one day those two will become stronger than us. So I wouldn’t underestimate them just because they’re adorable.”
“Naturally.” Kasulis retorted. “Isn’t it the point for children to surpass their parents?”
“Yes. But they deserve a chance to be their own selves.” I answered.
Kasulis’ smile slowly disappeared. “Will we get the chance to see it?”
I knew what he was getting at. “You know I can’t promise that. But at the very least, we will make sure we’re a part of their life. We’ll be a good father to them.”
“‘You’ will. I might become a bad influence for them.” Kasulis chuckles.
I chuckle too. “Nah. You’ll help me remind them that everyone has a dark side. And most of the time, it’s better to embrace it than fight it.”
“Coming from the guy that took a long time to do just that.” Kasulis smirked.
I scratched the back of my head. “Sorry. I was dead set on believing you weren’t a part of me. But when I think about it, you were created not too long after I became a Hybrid.”
“Speaking of. I want to ask you something… about that day.” Kasulis asked. His tone became much more serious.
I was naturally nervous and worried about recalling that day. “What about it?”
“I… don’t have any memory of it.” Kasulis answered. “All I recall was your emotional state at the time.”
“Which was pure anger and hatred. That would explain why your first appearance was so memorable. The way you fought me and every once else. It was like… you had animosity towards everything.”
Kasulis looked away. “I won’t lie, I kinda did. In fact, I don’t quite remember much of that. All I knew was I had to lash out. At something.”
“Considering what happened to put me in that emotional state, I can’t blame you for being so malicious and destructive. I do remember the phrase; ‘It’s not fair.’ was the only thing running through my head.”
Kasulis turned back to look at me. “What do you remember… about that day?” Kasulis asked.
I went quiet for a minute. “Well for one, I remember how sick and disgusted I was after the fact.” I do my best to hold back a gag reflex. “Also mom getting stabbed and falling over, bleeding. Right afterwards, all I remember was feeling something shatter then… nothing.”
Kasulis raised an eyebrow. “Nothing? Like, ‘you lost your memory’ nothing or-”
“-Like ‘it’s not my memory’, nothing. It was like I was unconscious… asleep. Then I woke up to… that sight.” I shivered a bit. Kasulis stared at me. “I… always thought you did it. You really have no memory of it?”
“I’m sure of it.”
“But I know you were created that day. It had to be you because-” My eyes widened in realization.
Kasulis just continued staring at me, as if he’s not surprised. “You and I are the only personalities in this body.” He said, as if he was finishing what I was saying.
“Kasulis… please tell me you’re not implying… what I think you are…” He didn’t answer. He didn’t need to answer since I already knew the answer all along. “How? And who?”
“I couldn’t tell ya. But I do know, if you didn’t create me… someone or something else did, using your negativity.”
“So it wasn’t either of us that did that…” I let out a sigh.
Kasulis gave me a confused look. “That supposed to be a good thing?”
“Yes, cause it means neither of us are the monster that did those things.”
Kasulis averted his gaze from me slightly. “You’re right. That is a good thing.”
“So what do we do?”
“For now, there’s nothing we can do. All we know is there’s another personality or something else entirely in us, since things don’t add up. I’ll try to find an answer while you control the body, but don’t expect me to find any for a long while. Now I hate to keep the mood lingering, but there is something else that needs to be brought up.”
“Something worse than what could be inside us?”
Kasulis expression turned much darker. “Yes and I believe there's a connection with the vision.” I stared at him. I started feeling a chill start running up my spine. “When you brought me out, the first thing I noticed was how different the atmosphere was. There’s a lot of positivity in this Reality. Much more than normal. So naturally I felt a… hole, of sorts.”
“Hole?”
“Yes, a ‘hole’ in the atmosphere. A ‘hole’ that wasn’t filled with positivity, but negativity. A massive amount.”
“And do you think this is connected to the vision?”
“Do you remember what you felt in the vision?”
“Yes. It’s not something I will soon forget.”
“Well, let’s just say… when I felt this hole of negativity… I felt the same way you did in that vision.” I suddenly felt that chill fill my entire body. Kasulis chuckled nervously. “I… never felt that way. So is that what fear feels like?”
“It’s more than just fear.” I stared right into his eyes. “It’s fear in the purest sense of the word. We always fear failing to protect and lose the ones we care about, but this… this is true primal fear.”
“As if there’s a difference…” Kasulis said.
“At the very least, we now know why we’re here… I hope.”
“You know it’s gonna take more than just us.” Kasulis pointed out.
“I do. If this thing you sensed is the entity in our vision, then it’s not just Equestria that’s at risk. But all of Reality.”
Kasulis nods. A couple minutes of silence followed, both of us were still feeling the chill from earlier. Kasulis clears his throat. “Mind telling me what you were dreaming of last night?”
I looked at him and blinked. “How… would you know I dreamed of something?”
“We’re connected now, so I can feel it. I can’t see it yet.” With a soft blush, I told Kasulis what the dream was about. He couldn’t help but blush a bit as well. “I can’t blame us for falling for a girl like her.”
I chuckle. “You can say that again.”
“So, what’s the meaning behind the dream?” I looked at him a bit confused. “Sarius, we don’t sleep. So when we fall asleep and dream, it’s always telling us something.”
“Well, my dream was focused on the moment between us and Kalia, and there was an emphasis on our pendant. So I think it might be about… love.”
“You think so?”
“It would make sense.”
“Hmm.” He scratched his chin as he looked at the projected screen that was still there. “Then let’s figure out what the potential love interests are.” The projection starts playing through the recent memories since I arrived in Equestria. “Seems like the most notable candidates are; Fluttershy, Princess Luna, and…” Kasulis gives me a weird look “Princess Cadence…”
“Definitely not Princess Cadence because a, she has a husband and b, I’m forcing myself to see her as a sister.”
“Good. Then that leaves Fluttershy and Princess Luna.” He looks back at the screen and a picture of two fillies come up; Applebloom and Sweetie Belle. “Of course, we’ll need to address these two.”
“Why?”
Kasulis deadpans at me. “Are you that oblivious?” I raise a claw. “Don’t answer that. These two have a crush on us.”
“Ohhhh.” I go quiet for a bit. “Wait they do?” Kasulis facepalms.
“By Asgorath, Sarius. Just take my word for it alright?” Kasulis looked ready to smack me.
“Sure, but how do you know Luna is a candidate? I figured Fluttershy was one.” I asked with interest.
“Because she refers to you as ‘Sir Sarius’ and seems to refuse to acknowledge you by anything else.”
“Ah. I should’ve guessed that.” I felt silly for not noticing that detail.
“Dare I ask how you’ll handle this?” Kasulis asked with reluctance.
“I will try to handle this with care, but I can’t guarantee anything.” I answered honestly.
Kasulis sighs. “That will do, I suppose.”
Since it seemed like the discussion about love and romance had run its course and the previous mood was lifted, I decided to bring up a topic that’s been on my mind for a while. “I need to ask you something.” I give him a slightly serious expression.
He returns the expression. “Go ahead.”
“Did you find Sombra’s ‘death’ off?”
“I did. He literally shattered to pieces.” Kasulis answered.
“I saw his horn fly off somewhere. Can you find it?”
“Already have. I happened to have gained consciousness a day after us passing out. So I’ve been looking into things. I found the horn, it’s a few miles away from the Crystal Empire. Sombra seems to be masking his presence but he can’t mask his negative aura.”
“Good. Keep an eye on him for me.”
“Do you have a plan for dealing with him?”
“Half of one. The other half requires some answers to questions. We’ll need a few things to cancel his magic and ability to turn into a shadow, like Scáth. Otherwise we’ll be back at square one.”
“Fair enough. So what will you do?”
I raise an eyebrow. “I assume you mean after solving the love triangle?” He nodded. “Well, that depends. We’ll need to learn more about this entity in our vision and if it’s connected to the one you sensed, before doing anything about it. If it really brings an end to all of life across the Web of Reality we can’t afford to make any mistakes. Sombra will be dealt with when he returns. So all that’s left to my knowledge is the forest close to Fluttershy’s cottage.”
Kasulis narrowed his eyes a bit. “That forest… isn’t normal by any means. I can sense evil lurking in there.”
“We both can. But for me, I can sense something familiar in there. I have no doubt our instincts will scream at us to stay away. Not only that, but the power I can sense from it seems ancient and powerful.”
“I concur. About the forest being ancient and powerful. Just make sure to exercise caution if you end up in the forest.”
“Of course.” I can feel he’s worried about me. “Heh, I won’t lie. Knowing you and I are connected now and can sense how the other feels, will take a bit of time to get used to.”
He smiles. “I agree, but it’s a welcome change.”
”Sir Sarius?” A voice was heard, echoing in the void.
“It sounds like Luna.” Kasulis stated. “I believe we’re done now anyway. I’ll be here if you need some company, Sarius.” Kasulis started walking away and slowly faded in the darkness. The sight kinda saddened me just a bit.
I opened my eyes and was surprised to see it was dark outside with the stars already out. I turned my head left to see Luna was standing next to my bed. She must have come in through the door.
“Hey Luna. I apologize if you knocked. I didn’t exactly hear it.”
She waved a hoof. “Tis fine.” Her eyes widened a bit. “I mean, it’s fine.” I chuckled lightly which caused her to blush a bit in embarrassment. “I swear I’m trying, Trusdale.”
I scratch my head. “Sorry. I… actually don’t mind. You sound cute when you speak like that.” My eyes widened a bit this time, when I realized I just complimented her. So naturally, I blushed a bit which wasn’t easy to see on my red scales.
Luna smiled and if I didn’t know any better, it was a bit of a seductively smile as she walked to the side of my bed. “Well, perhaps I might just forgo my desire to speak naturally when in your presence.” I can’t help but wonder if she was trying to mix casual talk with shakespeare talk. She giggled. “I’m only jesting, Sir Sarius. But if you wish for me to speak like that more often, you need but ask.” She said that with a bit more of a blush than earlier, but not out of embarrassment.
I cleared my throat. “I’ll… give it some thought. For now, just casual talk.”
Luna nodded. “Very well.”
“So what did you want to chat about?”
“Well, I’d like to know more about where you came from. I’m also curious about this Asgorath you mentioned before.”
“Ah. I have told Fluttershy already even though she didn’t need to know, but I can definitely tell you.”
I then told her everything I told Fluttershy, and she listened with great interest. Once I was done she gave me a good look over, as if she’s trying to picture me being the DNA son of a deity.
“Hmm. To think you’re the son of the Deity of Creation.”
“Just to assure you, I don’t have the full power of a Deity. But I do have a Deity’s immense potential. Which is how and why I got so strong.”
Luna’s face grew dark a bit. “I never imagined such beings could keep things like fire and ice in check, and need to. And you happened to fight one and won.”
I looked out the window. “Well… it wasn’t a fight. More like a struggle.”
Luna looked at me with worry. “What do you mean?”
“I couldn’t kill him since he was being controlled, but I couldn’t hold back or I would have been killed. No matter how you look at it, if that ‘battle’ continued… I have no doubt I would have been killed. So all I could hope to do is last long enough for him to regain control.”
Luna went silent for a minute. “That certainly sounds like an unwinnable battle.”
“You've been through one yourself?” I asked.
Luna didn’t respond right away. “Not… directly.” I turned to look at her and she held a sorrowful look in her eyes. She even looked like she was about to cry. “It was when my sister fought me when I was Nightmare Moon. I wasn’t in control of my actions but I saw… everything.”
I gave Luna a minute to compose herself enough to continue. “She… couldn’t fight back since I was family but she wanted to save me. And the only thing she could do was use the Elements of Harmony to seal me in the moon for a thousand years. I saw the tears flow down her face as she used them. Nightmare Moon didn’t shed tears, but I did.”
I reached out to grab her shoulder, she turned to me with tears running down her cheeks. I lifted my claw off her shoulder and wiped the tears away. “What matters is that you were saved in the end. I understand waiting a thousand years to be saved is incredibly hard, but it seems like you’re the type that’s patient.”
“I… wouldn’t say I’m patient. I was trapped within Nightmare Moon so I had no choice but to wait.” Then she smiled. “But you’re right. I was saved in the end and I swore I would never lose control like that again.”
I smiled back and pulled my claw away. “Anything else you want to ask?”
“How is your father doing? Asgorath, not your biological father since you told me the latter is dead.”
My smile faded and my expression was replaced with a sad one. Luna noticed and her smile faded too as she looked at me with concern. “Truth is, he’s dying.”
Luna’s eyes widened. “What?! How and why?”
“From a… unique type of poison caused by pollution. It’s not something you get right away, but over a prolonged exposure and well… he spent too much time being exposed to it.”
“Is there a cure?”
I shook my head sadly. “And I doubt there ever will be. All that can be done is prolonging what little life he has left, which my siblings and I did already. We surrounded his home in the sky with an energy bubble to keep the polluted air out. But as I said, it’s too late to save him.”
“Then… what will happen when he-” Luna hesitated finishing her question, remembering the most important fact about Deities I mentioned to her. “-dies?”
I also hesitated answering her, knowing full well what Asgorath’s death could entail. “Well, one of two things. One; life goes on without him, while the other Deities maintain the Web of Reality. Or two… everything just… ends. It’ll be like if Azathoth woke up.”
“Azathoth?” Luna asked, a bit perplexed.
“An elder god in the Lovecraft mythos. It’s in an eternal sleep, and therefore is eternally dreaming. When it wakes up, the universe ends since everything is basically a part of his dream.” Luna blinks. “I know it’s not something you're familiar with but trust me, it makes sense to me. Anyway, I don’t know which will happen since he hasn’t exactly told me. And since he’s not in any rush to tell me, I can only assume it’s not the latter.”
“And what if it is the latter?”
“Someone will have to replace him as the Deity of Creation, so life can go on. As long as a Deity that represents Creation exists, life will exist. But I’m hoping since my aunt is the Deity of Life, she’ll keep life going.” Silence settled for a moment. “Now, enough of the foreboding talk.”
“Of course. Onto a brighter subject, my sister and I will require your help soon.”
I raise an eyebrow. “With what?”
Luna gave a small smile. “My sister will give you the details. Say, can you tell me about your siblings, Sir Sarius? I know you saved your sister and your brother underwent training to slay you, but what are they like?”
My ears twitched. “Oh. My sister is gentle, sweet, very caring, and very smart. But like me and my brother, she is a force to be reckoned with and is not someone you want to anger. I don’t think you’ll see our human forms but her dragon form is that of an Eastern Dragon.”
“Eastern Dragon? Well, I suppose the dragons do originate from the east.” Luna said with a hoof on her chin.
I waved a claw. “I don’t know if there are serpentine like dragons in your world.”
“There are actually.” Luna reassured me.
“Oh, I see. I suppose I’ll have to visit the dragons sometime then. Anyway, she doesn’t have wings like me and my brother. She has antler-like horns instead and I’d bet you she’d be adept at using magic with those horns. My brother’s dragon form is like mine. Only differences are that he's bulkier and wings have claws on them.” I unfold my left wing and point to the wing bend. “Right here.”
Luna looks at the spot intensely as if trying to picture a claw there. “Hmm.”
“Don’t worry, you’ll realize it makes sense when you see him and he puts it to use.”
Luna shrugs. “I’ll take your word for it then. Now, mind telling me what your mother was like?”
I look at her for a bit. “Sure. She was a beautiful and caring woman. She knew a good amount of witchcraft and-”
“Witchcraft?!” Luna asked with shock. “She was a witch?”
I blinked. “In practice. She couldn’t do magic. Where I’m from, being able to use magic wasn’t common. In fact, at one point in history those that did or suspected as much, were burned on a stake and yelled out for being cohorts with the devil. Even though the real practice of witchcraft is just celebrating things and using otherwise common household items to perform things like curing an ailment.”
Luna almost flinched at the part of being burned on a stake. “The devil? Ha! What nonsense.”
I raise an eyebrow. “You know of devils?”
Luna rubbed her leg with a hoof. “Not… personally but yes.”
“So demons are a thing in Equestria I take it?” I asked with curiosity.
“Yes. They are described in books but no pony has actually met one to my knowledge. That, or the ponies that have, went missing or died a mysterious death. It’s truly hard to tell.”
“And what about you, have you actually seen one?”
“Again, not personally. But I have seen a vast amount of things in the night. Things even my sister won’t acknowledge exist. So I wouldn’t be surprised.”
“Then how do you know demons and devils exist?”
Luna paused for a minute like she was considering an argument. “How do you know that gods exist in your world? Gods that are from mythos you mentioned, like Norse or Lovecraft.”
“Because I’ve actually seen them, and met some of them.”
“What about before you became a Hybrid?” She asked with a smirk.
I opened my mouth to retort but knew she got me there. Before I became a Hybrid, I had no clue things like gods, Deities, or magical creatures actually existed and were just good at hiding. Most of the time. I sighed. “From books…”
Luna tilted her head up, as if proud of herself. “Exactly. And if it’s recorded in books, somepony must have witnessed it and written about it, correct?”
“Yeah, but no need to act so proud. Anyway back to my mother, she did the witch things I mentioned. Celebrating certain holidays and using household items to help with certain rituals.” Luna gasped. “Not satanic or magical rituals.” Her ears flopped back. “She would take some incense and spread it around to cleanse the home of evil and negativity. Stuff like that.”
“Did it actually work?”
“Realistically, probably not. But because of the Placebo effect, it worked in our brains.”
“Ah, the Placebo effect eh? It certainly works like a charm sometimes. Not literally of course.” We both shared a short laugh. “So what did your mother do for a living?”
“She was a crime scene investigator and a really good one.”
“Ah. That sounds interesting.” Luna looked at the window. “Hmm, I think it’s about time I left.”
I blinked. “Why?”
She looked at me. “I have nightly duties to attend, Sir Sarius. I spend a majority of the night watching over the dreams of others, and assisting them with advice and help. After all, dreams are when your mind goes through the events of the day, so if a dream is a nightmare it means the holder has regrets and troubles.”
“I know.”
“Oh, my apologies. I assumed since you can’t sleep you didn’t know the functions of dreams and why they’re important.”
I shake my head. “Nah. It’s not like I have had the inability to sleep since I was born.”
“I see. Well then, I shall be going now.”
Luna turned and was about to leave. “Wait.”
She stopped and turned to me with confusion. “Yes Sir Sarius?”
I started to blush at the thought of asking my last question for the day. “Can I ask you something?”
“You just did.” Luna joked. I knew her joke was a slight jab from when I said the same thing to her before.
I just shook my head with a slight smile. “Do you have an interest in me?”
Luna tilted her head. “What do you mean? I do find you quite interesting since you’re a human and dragon Hybrid from another world.”
“That’s not what I meant. I meant…” I paused to consider how to word it. Since she has a somewhat old fashioned mind, I figured this would be the best response. “Do you feel any affection towards me?”
The wording must have worked since Luna’s pupils shrunk a bit and she blushed. “W-w-well, I’m honestly not sure… I’ve been having this sensation since our spar. My sister seems to think it is affection but she also stated that it could be a crush and might pass.”
I stared at her in surprise. I honestly didn’t expect her to come out and admit it. “What about you, Sir Sarius?”
I blinked. “Oh, uh. I might have feelings for you too but like with you, it’s a little early to tell.”
Luna nodded. “Oh, I see. Then perhaps we should heed my sister’s advice to ‘not jump the train’ and see where this goes.”
I chuckled which caused Luna to laugh. I couldn’t help but notice her laugh was soothing and charming. “That’s good advice.”
“Speaking of my sister, I should mention that she will be seeking you out.”
I raised my eyebrows in interest. “Oh, what for?”
Luna smiled. “If I told you, then it would ruin the point of her seeking you out, now wouldn’t it?” She joked. I simply rolled my eyes in amusement. “Don’t worry, you and her will be talking soon. Anyway, it's time I left for real. I had fun chatting with you, Sir Sarius.”
I smiled. “Back at you, Luna. Have a safe night.”
“I will and you have a good night.” With that she walked out the room, taking one more look at me before fully leaving.
I sat in silence for a long while, thinking about recent events, what will come next and how I should prepare for them. I’ve been in this world for at least a week but only experienced almost two whole days worth of it. I clearly have so much of the world to explore, see and understand. My reason for being here remains unclear, but I know I will figure out what it is in time. Until that time I should learn as much of this world as possible. But for now I must focus on the present. If Celestia and Luna want me to be their escort and protection, I’m gonna need a few things from home first. Once I get the chance I would need to contact my sister. But for now it’s still night time, I should get some rest. Although I got a whole week’s worth of it, it wasn’t a peaceful rest. I positioned myself so I was lying on my side and comfortable enough to close my eyes and take a drake nap till morning or until a nurse came to give me the okay to leave.
The next morning
Nurse Redheart is walking into the hospital with her hair in a bun and a nurse cap on her head. She makes her way into the facility office and starts filling out a release form for Sarius. After a few minutes the form was finished and she headed for the room Sarius was in to inform him he was free to go.
I decided to get up and off the bed when sunlight started coming through the window. I was looking out and watching the wind blow around the grass and leaves in the trees, just admiring my aunt’s work when I heard a few knocks at the door.
I turned my head to the door and said, “Come in.”
The door opened and Nurse Redheart walked in smiling to see me on my feet. “Ah Sarius. You’re looking well I see. Did you sleep well?”
I nodded and turned to her. “I didn’t actually sleep but got the benefits. You here to give me the okay?”
She nodded. “Yup. Everything checks out. Again you seem to be quite different from a regular dragon, but despite that and the lack of medical knowledge of dragons you’re breathing, walking and all healed up. You’re as free as the birds.”
“Great. Thank you for looking after me while I was unconscious.” I bowed my head in a thankful manner.
Redheart started giggling and just waved her hoof. “No need for formal bows. I’m just doing my job. After all, being a nurse/doctor is how I got my cutie mark. Now please don’t get yourself hurt again to be here.” She joked.
I chuckled. “Don’t worry, I would never plan that sort of thing.”
“Alright, take care then Sarius.”
“Same to you, Redheart.” Redheart and I started walking out the door and going in different directions. She was heading to another room in the hospital while I was heading out the door.
I was really looking forward to being able to fully explore Ponyville and the surrounding area. But I thought it best to go find Celestia and find out when the meeting was so I could prepare for it.