An Equestrian Witcher

by OblivionShadow


15: Painful Truths...

            He leaned his flank against the door and stood silent. “How do I teleport you?” He said aloud as he watched the cat explore the room. She looked back at the sound of his voice and padded silently over to him. She rubbed against his chest and looked to him.

She stared at him and his eyes connected with her own. If you will it, I will appear.

Oblivion started and looked to the great feline. The stallion shook his head and put a hoof to his muzzle. “Gods below. Is it that simple?” The cat waited for him to continue. “I teleport, then call upon you?”

“Yes.”

Oblivion pushed off the door and stood straight. “Well, that solves that issue. It is a bit awkward to talk to you telepathically though. Do me a favor and around other ponies calm down. You nearly gave me a headache with your constant chatter.”

Sasa grumbled at him. “I have waited a thousand years for a pony of your caliber. I think I should be allowed some freedom after so long.”

“Why wait for me? I’m sure there are plenty of ponies that could have acted in my stead.”

“There were none. The cat stomped a paw and earned Oblivion’s attention. “Your connection to the Spirit of this world is what drew you here. Like me, you are not from this world.”

Oblivion had looked away from her, but that comment drew his attention. “You can tell?”

"Yes.” She nodded, solemnly.

Oblivion looked away from her for a moment before he leaned against the side of the bed. “It’s not that obvious, is it?” Sasa laughed in his mind and shook her head.

“Like you, I can sense the Spirits of the ponies and creatures around us. But you can see far more than I can. You are directly connected to Equestria’s Spirit. The world itself knows you. I know that sounds strange but think of it. Your magic seems to have no limit am I right?”

Oblivion looked to her and pushed away from the bed. He began to pace as the cat spoke. “I have wondered about that but put it out of my mind. You meant to tell me that I can see into this world and that is the source of my magic?”

“Yes. You were brought here for a reason. I do not know what it is precisely. But I do know that Equestria's Spirit answers to your call. Your magic has no limit and you are not bound by the same rules as other ponies. I will let you in on details about the Element you bear. The cat stopped and waited for him to look to her. Oblivion stopped pacing and waited for her to go on. “Only an Alicorn can wield the Element of Spirit. A normal pony can use it once. It uses the spirit of its bearer as the fuel for its power. The Element of Magic may lead the Elements of Harmony, but Spirit is the power behind it. The power that cleansed Nightmare Moon was the combination of them all, but the strength behind it was yours.”

Oblivion looked away from her and then down to his medallion. “So you are saying that a regular pony would be left broken by the Element of Spirit?” Sasa nodded and waited. “Gods below. What the Hell am I doing with this thing then? I have never had magic. If you know anything of where I am from then you know that Witcher's are many things but they are not a sorcerer. How is it that when I came here I suddenly have magic and am one of the ruling class, an Alicorn? That’s madness.” Oblivion went back to pacing as energy began to pulse through him, requiring him to move.

Sasa waited before she spoke again. “I know it is a lot to take in. But I speak the truth. To wield Spirit one must be an Alicorn. That is how Celestia and Luna were able to use it before. What you once were is what made you what you are now. You may think a Witcher is devoid of magic. But you aren’t. Sure your power comes from the mutations that made you what you are, but you were chosen to survive that trial. You fought through that pain and the hell that came with it to emerge on the other side of it alive and well. You said yourself that you took to the mutations and survived with minimal recovery time.” Sasa stopped and looked to him.

Oblivion looked to her as he paved and nodded. “True enough. But can that truly have been through, a force of will then?” Oblivion asked her as he moved. “And I never discussed that topic with you.”

“No, you did not. But through you, I can see the memories of this world that you have made.” She spoke to him. Oblivion stopped and looked to her, his eyes beginning to blaze. “Okay, that was poor phrasing on my part. I can’t see the memory exactly, but I can feel it. You speak to me, not just through your words, Chosen. I feel the World Spirit that you wield and it tells me of the past. In time, I will not need to listen to it. I will be with you so the memories of your words will be within me. I cannot see your memories. Not only is it impossible for me, but I am aware of your stance on mind reading. I wish to continue living so I will never be a party to something that would cause you pain.”

The cat waited as Oblivion breathed deeply and released a low snort before resuming his pacing. “Very well. That is cleared up. But that does not answer the question of why me exactly. There are ponies...gods dammit...people of higher skill than I am. Those who wield magic normally and have the knowledge to use it. Why not them?”

Sasa purred for a moment before she responded. “They did not earn it.”

Oblivion stopped and looked to her. “Come again?”

“You earned every bit of the power you wield. You have never faltered in your cause and your strength is known. Other Witcher's know of you because of your strength and courage. You take on any monster er no matter the possible cost. You protect ponies...” The cat paused, and a chuckle went through Oblivion's mind. “Anyway. You protect those that earn it and never break. You know of the pain and have had those who tried to break you.”

Oblivion looked away from her as memories surfaced. He snorted and shook his head to rid himself of them. “I try not to think of those times. No doubt you feel them?”

“I did not. I told you that I feel and hear the past but I am not intruding on the past before Equestria. I may know a few things of you but it is only things that have been mentioned.”

He stopped and looked to her again. “How could you know that there are those who have tried?”

She looked away for a moment. “Those who stand fast are always those that understand what it means to feel more than most. I know that you have suffered at the hands of those who have tried to prove themselves your better. Only to have you break them in turn.”

Oblivion started pacing once more. He stopped and looked to the window. “True enough.” Oblivion walked to the window and pushed it open. His forelock was pushed by a light breeze as he looked back to the cat. “I bear the scars of those times and they remind me of why I do not fall.”

Sasa purred as she stood and walked over to him. “You understand and see the truth behind lies and can see the mask that ponies wear. In the time that skill will be called upon I am sure. You are a force to be reckoned with, Chosen. And I pity those that find themselves the opposite of you.” Sasa went quiet as she sat in front of him. Watching him as he looked out the window. “I am with you. I was shocked to see you at first. I wanted to speak with you but you were not able to hear me.” Oblivion glanced at her for a moment. “I sensed you the moment you walked into my territory. It was like seeing the sun after being in a cave for years. Blinding and warm. But a bit frightening as well. After being alone for so long it was frightening to approach you and walk in this world once more.”

“Why would you fear that?”

“You understand being alone, yes?”

“True.”

“Imagine being alone for so long then being thrown into a room full of ponies.”

Oblivion cringed and glanced at her. “Fair point.”

“I live because you are strong enough to hold the World Spirit and use it. As long as you wield the World Spirit I do not die. You can bring me back from the Abyss with the strength of your own call.”

“So in essence, you are immortal?”

“Essentially yes. Same as you.”

Oblivion startled and his head spun to face the cat. “Come again?”

Sasa looked to him. "You had no idea?”

“Clearly not. I had heard that Luna and her sister were over a millennium old but I did not think that applied to myself as well.”

“Its different with you. They can be killed though it is very difficult. A wound that would normally be fatal to any pony is not for you. Your heart may still but it cannot be truly stopped.”

Oblivion looked outside and was silent. Sasa waited as he thought over the news that he would never die. “That sounds like a hell of its own. To live on and watch the world go by without you. Every pony that you meet will one day fall and you are stuck watching it happen.”

Sasa nuzzled his shoulder. “I know it seems that way. But another way to look at it is this. You protect the Spirit of the world which means ponies and other beings can continue to live on. You guide their spirits and help them. Your helping Blue Blood, are you not?” The cat waited for him to acknowledge the comment. He nodded slightly. “That is part of you as well. You can see an ailing Spirit and have the power to purify them through force or through other means.”

Oblivion looked to her. “So I could cleanse the wraith that is attached to him through sheer force?”

“Yes. Though that is not a good idea in some cases. You have an enormous amount of power chosen. Sometimes a Spirit that is so badly hurt, can be broken if you try to force it. By befriending Blue Blood you are strengthening his Spirit and making it so that he could one day be strong enough to survive a cleansing. Otherwise right now...”

“It could break him.” Oblivion looked outside.

“Yes. You are a wise pony Chosen. You use the knowledge you have as a Witcher to decide the best action.”

“I decided on that action after I saw the wraith. My armor covered my eyes and showed me the extent of the damage. Is that normal?”

“Actually, I am surprised it did that. Your power was able to call upon the armor and use it to amplify your sight to show you the true strength of the corruption. You are a wonder, my Chosen.”

Oblivion said nothing as he processed what he had been told. “Immortal...” He whispered. Sasa said nothing as he listened to the word from his own voice. “What have I gotten myself into?”

Sasa nuzzled him, trying to comfort him. “I am with you. So long as you will have me I will be at your side.”

Oblivion sighed and looked at her. He ran his claws absently through her long fur. “I understand that I was chosen for this role. But truly what is the purpose? I am an Element of Harmony, but you have told me that I am the true power behind it. And while I can wrap my mind around that. I am... struggling with the rest of it. This world chose me from all the other worlds?”

Sasa nudged him. “Not quite. While it brought you here you chose your role. That day, with the Leshens, you felt yourself fall, did you not?”

Oblivion looked outside. “I did not fall.”

Sasa felt emotions beginning to roil within him. “That was poor phrasing as well. I meant that you felt that pain and then nothing?”

“I woke up here.”

“Correct. Why do you think that is?”

Oblivion looked down to his hooves. His hoof left her fur and he held the claws outstretched in front of him. “I died there, didn’t I?”

“No.”

Oblivion looked to her, confusion in his eyes. “Then kindly explain.” His voice was sarcastic but he still sought the information.

Sasa sighed but answered anyway. “Your body fell, but your Spirit did not. It screamed out and Equestria heard it. You did not wake immediately. The body that you have had to be made. It took several months to create your body. Equestria started the process, but you took over and made yourself into what you are now.”Oblivion put his hoof down and looked at her. Sasa’s vibrant blue eyes looked to him and waited for any response.

“So it took months for this body to be made and then given new life?”

“Yes. As I said you took the reins, so to speak, and made yourself. Your horn was made by Equestria but for the most part, you are a self-made stallion.”

Oblivion scoffed and looked up. “Self-made? Hardly. I seem to be dancing to a tune played by a bard I cannot see.” Oblivion moved away from the cat and started pacing once more. “How can I make myself when I have no knowledge of what happened after the fight?”

“There is evidence of it but I do not wish to hurt you by showing you.”

The cat stopped at the look the stallion gave her. “There is a way to prove what you have said?”

Sasa nodded and looked to the ground. “Yes, but it will hurt you to see it. I do not mean your mind, Chosen. Your body bears the scars of your past life. Especially the one that destroyed you.”

Oblivion looked away from her and breathed deeply. “Sasa there are some things that must be seen to be believed. I appreciate that you do not wish me any pain. But.” He walked to her and put a hoof under her chin and forced her to look at him. “I must know.”

The cat looked away from his eyes but didn’t move away. She stood up and looked to him. “Please understand that even if I show you the truth it will not change what you are now. It’s just that some things cannot be hidden fully and they leave a mark even across worlds. Please remember that.” Sasa stepped back and reared up on her hind legs. She put her paws on his back. “You might want to use a spell to soundproof the room. By revealing the scars on your body it brings the pain of that hidden memory with it.”

Oblivion nodded and his horn lit covering the walls. His cloak disappeared from his back and he laid his swords on the bed. “All right Sasa. I understand you are not happy with this idea. But you have given me a huge amount of information. I have spent the last couple of months living in a world that I was certain I would wake up from and find that I was still in my world and that this was a dream. I have to come to terms with what I have been told in a way that I can understand. I was made from the pain of the Trial of the Grasses.”

Sasa grumbled. “I know Chosen. But that does not mean I will like this. Can I at least share the pain with you?”

Oblivion turned to look at her. “Why in the Hells would you want to do that?”

The cat put her head down on his neck and nuzzled him. Her tongue ran over his fur. “Because I already do not like the thought of anything hurting you. I live because you saved me from fading into the Abyss. It was by your decision that I am here and able to share this life with you. You gave me my name. I have never had a name and you gave me one that you hold dear to your own heart.”

Oblivion turned his head to look at her. “I know. I have used that name on every companion that has stood with me. I gave you that name due to the fact that I expect you to be at my side till the end of times. Before I anticipated that to be when I died in this world. Now I know that I will not die and it is comforting to know that I will have another that knows of the ponies I have met and will recall them as well. I do not ask this of you to cause either of us grief. But I must understand and this is how it must be done.”

Sasa licked his neck once more before she sighed and leaned more of her weight into his back. Oblivion squared his hooves and felt her claws digging into his back. The pain was minimal and the black Unicorn waited. Sasa sighed once more and her claws plunged into his back. Oblivion groaned but didn’t move.

“Look back Chosen. Sasa said through their link.

Oblivion looked over his shoulder as his back ripped open. A tear that went from just above his tail all the way to his neck tore open. Blood flowed from it as tendrils went across his back. He knew the wound when he saw it. It was made by a Leshen. He had been hit by the attack that used the roots of the trees around him before. His voice died in his throat as his head went back to face front and lowered as he panted. Pain ripped through him as he gasped for air. Sasa’s claws were still buried deep in his body. The great cat tried to soothe him through their link but he couldn’t hear her voice. His heart pounded and his blood rushed through him. His wings raised from his back and extended their full size. He panted as pain tore at him.

His mind showed him the last moments of his fight with the Leshens. He watched as he called for his mare and saw her approach him at a gallop. He reached for her saddle, only to have roots tear into them both. He had watched as the mare, which had been with him for nearly 15 years, screamed in pain as she fell with him. Oblivion gasped as he realized that she had died with him. A ragged roar tore from his throat as he grieved for a lost companion. He didn’t hear the Spirit Cat calling, trying to soothe and comfort him, to reach him through the pain that she knew was coursing through him.

Blood dripped down his legs as the wound in his back began to heal and scar over. Sasa removed her claws and jumped back as he collapsed. The Alicorn panted as he tried to recover. His wings lay extended on the floor. The cat jumped to avoid stepping on them. The pain from the wound began to fade but the knowledge of the mares fate tore at him. He tried to get back to his hooves but fell with each attempt. He felt a weight drop over his shoulders and pin him to the floor. He bucked against it but his struggling did nothing to dislodge the weight from his body. His strength gave out as he collapsed to the floor, sweat-drenched and exhausted. He panted and dragged air into his ravaged lungs. He suddenly felt a vibration along his body and found Sasa purring against him as she had pinned him. He looked over his shoulder to her. His blood covered her paws and he let his head collapse back to the floor of the room.

“Speak to me. Please, speak to me Chosen.The cat begged him as she purred against him.

As much as he wanted to speak to her his voice failed him and he laid in silence, panting. His breathing evened out and it ceased to hurt to breathe. He could feel the wound in his back fully heal and the pain vanishes. He gazed back to find Sasa licking his fur. He could feel that her weight was still on him as she tried to comfort him. A tremble went through his body and he groaned. Sasa jumped off him and laid down by his head.

“Talk to me.” The cat rubbed her forehead against his face. “Talk to me, Oblivion.”

“That is the first time you used my name.”

The cat jumped in surprise and stared at him. He didn’t stand, instead continued to lay quietly on the floor. She stared at him and he heard her swallow. “You answered to it. Please tell me you’re all right.” She begged of him and licked his cheek.

“I’ll live. It’s harder to come to terms with the death of my mare than the rest of it.” He admitted and rolled onto his belly. Sasa came to sit by his head and nuzzled him.

“That’s what I was most concerned about. But I do not think she regretted anything. She went to you to try to save you. I think she knew what she was galloping into. I would have acted the same in her hooves.”

Oblivion looked at the spirit beast for a moment before he sighed and leaned into her shoulder. “Perhaps.” He looked over his shoulder and saw a great scar under his fur. “That’s going to show now isn’t it?”

“I wish it did not.”

“It’s fine. I am actually fine with it. It’s a reminder of what I have lost, and what I have gained. Thank you for trusting me to get through that on my own.” He looked back to the cat for a moment before leaning into her once more.

“Please, do not ask me to do anything like that again.”

“I would hope that there is nothing else besides that last memory that I need to know.”

Sasa shook her head and nuzzled him. “No, that was the last memory of the life you left behind.”

Oblivion rolled away from her and started to get to his hooves. He groaned as his newly scarred back trembled and he fell back to the floor. Sasa stood up and moved to help him to his hooves. Oblivion pitched forward and Sasa moved to his side and supported him as he stood. He panted for a moment before he took a shaky step and nearly fell to the floor. The cat stood in front of him and pushed him up.

“Nice catch.” He commented.

She gave a low growl but remained silent. She angled him toward his bed and ushered him in between the sheets to sleep. He folded his wings in and they laid against his sides. His coat was sweat-drenched and he growled. “I need a bath.”

“You need to rest first.” The cat replied to him. Her voice was sharp as she leaped onto the bed and laid down on the other side of him, against his back.

He looked over at her. “Was that sass? I think you just sassed me.”

The cat growled but Oblivion could hear the laugh under it. The cat huddled against him and purred, trying to get him to relax and sleep. “Just rest.”

Oblivion laid his head down onto the soft pillows and tried to sleep. He kept seeing his mare dying in front of him and he started awake each time. He heard Sasa purring to him and he tried to focus on her, his current companion. Grief tugged at him as he lay in silence. The stallion closed his eyes and dozed for several minutes before the image of his former companion flashed before his eyes. “Gods dammit.”

“I am sorry, Chosen. I wish that she had not fallen as well.” The ethereal cat laid her head on his shoulder.

Oblivion sighed. “I know. I keep thinking that if she had not fallen with me then she would still have been attacked, but those thoughts are not easing my mind.”

The cat purred and nuzzled his shoulder as best she could. “She loved you more than you know. How old was she?”

“She was 16. I got her shortly after she was weaned.” He explained. “I rescued a man from a group of drowners and he knew that a Witcher is needed to be paid. So I followed him back to his home. He admitted that he had no money and told me to choose anything from his farm. At the time I was walking so I needed a horse. I saw this spindly little foal and asked about her. He informed me that she was newly weaned. I informed him that I needed a horse, so I would take her. He had to agree, so that was how I came to own her. I walked her back to the stables that I had left my tack and equipment. I walked with her for a time until she was strong enough to hold me and trained her as well. She could run for hours and still have more left to give.”

Sasa chuckled. “Seems like your nature rubbed off on her. You don’t quit either.”

Oblivion looked at the cat for a moment. “Perhaps.”

“Don’t remember her death. She lived beside you and I think she would have fought with you. Your bond to her was strong and it drove her to greater feats to keep up with you. You are a difficult pony to keep up with. Though I have no doubt that she was with you and loved every day.” Oblivion laid his head back down to the pillow. “Try to rest. Think of the good times with her and the times that she was with you. Focus on her life, not her death.”

Oblivion chuckled. “No Witcher dies in his bed. None of our horses do either.” The stallion closed his eyes and forced his mind to think of the times that the mare had watched over him. Memories of the mare washed over him and he let himself relax.


The stallion opened his eyes and looked around him. The light was filtering through the window shades, he looked over his shoulder and saw Sasa sprawled over the other side of the bed with her head and back pressed up against him. Oblivion used his magic to push the blanket back and stand up. The stallion looked back and he could see dried blood on the sheets and he grimaced. He looked to the floor and saw a dried pool of blood on the floor. His horn lit up and he used the flame to burn the blood off the floor. His coat was messy and in different directions from the dried sweat. He walked into the bathroom and used the brush to clean up his mane and tail. “I need a curry comb or something to get rid of the sweat in my fur.” Oblivion cringed and looked at his fur in the mirror.

“You are a handsome pony, Chosen.” Sasa grumbled as she came to stand in the doorway.

Oblivion scoffed. “I think not. This is vile. My fur feels like its stiff and my skin itches from it. I still have dried blood all over me. Not an easy conversation to try to explain this.” The stallion snorted and looked to the cat.

Sasa chuckled and walked up to him. She ran her tongue over the fur of his shoulder. She tried to clean him off, but he skirted away from her. The cat sat down and waited for him to finish brushing out his tail. He walked past her into the room and pulled his swords and cloak onto his back.

“All right. Shall we go and meet up with Blue Blood to have breakfast with Celestia?”

“We shall Chosen.” The cat yawned and stood up at his side.

Oblivion went to the door and used his magic to push it open. He left the room with Sasa on his heels. The black Unicorn looked to the hallway and waited as he saw Blue Blood coming out of his door as well. The other stallion looked over to see the pair closing the door as well. Blue looked at him and smiled.

“Good morning, my friend.” He greeted him.

“Morning, Blue. Sleep well?”

Blue Blood looked unsure for a moment. Oblivion snorted at him. “Well I did sleep, but it was hardly restful.”

“Oh?” Oblivion drew up by the other and waited.

“I had a nightmare that recurred through the night. I was in the castle foyer and it was dark. There were candles all around and shadows went over the walls. I turned to see them and shape was jumping through them.” He looked to Oblivion who nodded that he was listening. “I finally caught a look at it and it was terrifying. It was standing on its hind legs and had long limbs and a pair of horns. The creature saw me looking at it, and it smiled. Or at least I think it was a smile. Its mouth was full of sharp teeth that looked like they could tear me apart.” Blue stopped and looked to the Witcher.

“If you can keep going go ahead. I will listen.” Oblivion encouraged him best he could. Sasa walked up to him and nuzzled the Prince. Blue seemed to take heart at the presence of both of them.

“It was just standing there, with that wicked grin, watching me. Suddenly I could hear voices all around me. They were speaking in some language that I couldn’t understand. I couldn’t move as it began to move toward me. Black smoke was coming off of it and it just got closer and the whispering got louder till it was all I could hear. It reached for me and then I woke up. I couldn’t sleep after that.”

Oblivion put a hoof on his shoulder, while Sasa nuzzled him, purring. “It may have been a dream, Chosen. But it has hurt him.”

Oblivion looked to the cat and knew that she was right. Blue’s spirit appeared to have taken a strong hit and caused it to falter. The Wraith had strengthened. Oblivion looked away for a moment and then back to Blue. “Well if it happens again just remember that you are the master of your own mind and all that is attached to it. A dream can be many things. It could be that it is showing you something about yourself that you need to overcome, for example.”

Blue Blood looked to the black stallion and sighed. “So it might mean that that creature was the mask I wear?”

Oblivion nodded. “That is possible. You simply have to decide that you are better than it is and it has no power over you. Those whispers could be the fear you have of others seeing the real you. But that is a guess on my part.”

Blue looked thoughtful. He reached a hoof up and stroked Sasa’s fur. “So it boils down to being stronger than it makes you feel?”

Oblivion nodded and stepped back. Sasa purred under Blue’s hoof and nuzzled his shoulder. “Shall we go and have breakfast?”

Blue nodded and turned to lead them. “Well said, Chosen. I think he needed to hear that.”

Oblivion nodded and followed the other Unicorn in silence. The black Unicorn said nothing in reply to the cat. He glanced down to his forelegs and saw that there was dried blood on his forelegs as well. "Should have used magic to get the blood off my fur as well." He thought to himself as he focused on following Blue Blood.

Sasa walked beside him. “Perhaps but you still need to teleport home and, despite wielding a World Spirit, that takes energy. And you are learning how to wield the Spirit from Equestria and your armor. That takes time. I am glad to know that you are not a foolish pony that uses it irresponsibly. You are a wise and strong pony."

Oblivion looked down at her for a moment. “Flattery will not get you any food from my plate.”

Sasa grumbled in reply. “That is not my reasoning...Okay, a bit. I’ll be quieter today.”

Oblivion chuckled. Blue led them through the halls until they reached the dining hall once more. They entered and Blue Blood gave a low bow to Celestia as she was waiting for them. Oblivion acknowledged her with a nod and walked into the room, Sasa on his heels.

“I hope you both had a nice visit with Luna?” She asked as they sat down.

“Quite. I had not thought of asking her if I could see her raise the moon. It was a lovely sight to behold.” Blue responded.

“Yes, she has no equal in that. I was a poor stand-in for her. No other pony can make such beautiful art with the moon and the stars.” Celestia agreed. “Did you enjoy the evening as well Oblivion?”

The black pony looked to them and nodded. “I had seen her raise the moon before but it is a sight every time. I am glad to see that it no longer seems to tire her as it did last I saw it.”

Celestia looked at him and nodded. “Well, I appreciate both of you joining me for breakfast. It has been a while since any pony was at my table this early? What would you two like to drink?”

“Coffee for me, thank you,” Oblivion responded.

Celestia nodded. “And what would she like?” The mare pointed to Sasa who was looking over the table as well.

“Milk is fine for me, Chosen.”

Oblivion looked to the cat for a moment. “Milk should be fine for her.”

Celestia nodded and clapped her front hooves. Oblivion recognized one of the ponies that came out as the one that had shown him around the last time he was here. Treats was her name if he remembered right. She took their requests and left the room. Celestia continued to question the two stallions about the day before. She asked Oblivion if he had enjoyed his tour of the city. He informed her that he had enjoyed the tour. He tuned out as Celestia and Blue spoke. “Sasa?”

The cat turned an ear to him. “Yes, Chosen?”

“So that does work. I can speak to you like this.”

“Yes. I’m glad you discovered it. Will make things easier.”

“Any ideas about how to further strengthen Blue Blood against that wraith? As much as I would like to simply rid him of it, especially after it went after him last night, I know that it would hurt him to do so. I refuse to harm him in an attempt to save him.”

“I agree. His spirit was attacked by that creature and it has shaken him deeply. Unfortunately, you’re right about simply removing it. We could bring in more ponies to befriend him but I also think it might be overwhelming.”

“I’m certain it would be. Perhaps I will speak with Rarity and see if she can throw him a letter with some encouragement?”

Sasa was quiet as she considered what he said. “That might be for the best. Bringing more ponies could cause more harm than good. I think asking more of Rarity is our best option. She is willing to see behind the mask and speak to him as another pony. Perhaps have him visit Ponyville?”

Oblivion looked away from her and back to the other ponies to make sure that he was not too far behind the conversation. “Not sure if that is a good idea. Just because ponies will see him and possibly seek him out. The last thing we need is for that mask of his to crop up and ruin any progress he has made.”

Sasa looked at him. “That's true. I had not thought of that. His Spirit is very delicate at this point in time. Perhaps making it a point to come to Canterlot more often?”

Oblivion leaned back in his chair and thought over what the cat has said.Perhaps come here once a week?”

Sasa looked at him and nodded. “That actually is a good idea Chosen. Perhaps use it as a...what do they call it? Boys day?”

Oblivion gave her a sideways glance. “Horrid way to put it but, you understand the concept. Perhaps bring in Shining Armor as well. They seemed to get along.”

“Perhaps eventually. For now, I would suggest just the two of you. I have an idea. He enjoyed that visit to the doughnut shop correct?” Oblivion nodded. “Then do that once a week. A small gathering for the two of you to meet up and talk. I think that attention would go a long way with him.”

Oblivion looked back to the ponies as breakfast was brought to them. He put a couple of waffles on his plate and laid the bowl of milk on the floor for Sasa. The large feline purred her thanks and started to drink. Oblivion picked up a couple of waffles and covered them with a light drizzle of butter. They ate in silence and Oblivion thought over what he and Sasa had discussed. He finished his food and set the plate aside. He looked down to Sasa and found her to be licking the bottom of the bowl. He waited for her to finish then picked it up. The Tiger sat up, her head clearing the top of the table.

“Did you enjoy your meal Oblivion?” Celestia asked him.

“Yes thank you. As much as I would like to stay longer I do need to return to Ponyville. I do have to get to work.” The black stallion commented as he stood up from his chair.

“Of course. Thank you for joining me for breakfast. It was a pleasure to have you.”

Oblivion nodded to her and waited for Blue Blood to lead him out of the room. The two walked down toward the menagerie when Oblivion had shown up before.

“Hopefully I will see you soon my friend,” Blue said to him as they walked.

Oblivion looked at him. “Well, perhaps I could come back next Saturday?” Blue turned to look at him. “Perhaps make it a weekly event? It would be nice to get away from the farm every now and then.” He stopped and waited for the other stallions' reply.

“I would like that. It would get me away from the tedious council meetings and what not.” The white pony replied.

“Then it is settled. Meet here at noon on Saturdays?”

“Sounds fine to me. Here we are. Did you figure out a way to teleport with Sasa?”

“After thinking about it I may try to summon her after I teleport.” He said to him.

“That is a clever idea. Have you never teleported any pony before?”

Oblivion nodded. “I have yet to teleport another living being. I can summon, but I have not used a teleport.”

“That is surprising considering your magic skills,” Blue admitted as they stopped in the grass. “I would offer to help but.”

Oblivion chuckled and held up a hoof. “No need to offer Blue. I have no need to try it out at this time. I will see you next week.” His horn lit up as he looked away.

“Wait.” Oblivion stopped and looked back to him, letting his horn extinguish. “What is all over you?”

Oblivion looked to him. Sasa sat next to him. “Busted.”

“I went for a run this morning and did not bathe once I returned.”

“I can see that but that is not when I meant. Are you hurt?”

Oblivion looked to the other pony. “A couple of minor scratches, nothing more.”

Blue Blood looked to him and appeared unconvinced. “Very well. Please take care of those cuts when you return to Ponyville.”

Oblivion nodded. “They will be addressed as soon as I return. Thank you, Blue. I appreciate the concern.”

“Of course. Have a safe teleport, my friend.”

Blue backed up to give the other Unicorn room. Oblivion's horn glowed with azure flame and he let the pressure build and then released his magic and was gone in a flash. Blue looked to Sasa who looked bored as she waited. Her ears perked and she purred at Blue Blood as she vanished as well.


“Impressive. It seems to have worked. Will be nice to have a day to spend with my friend. And not in boring meetings.” The Prince said to no pony as he walked into the castle.


Oblivion appeared in front of the barn a usual and focused on Sasa. She appeared beside him and gave a low growl.

“We need to work on an actual teleport, Chosen. That was not a pleasant experience.”

“Quite you’re grumbling. Perhaps next time you would prefer to walk.” He sniped at her.

“Cranky?” She asked with a tilt of her head.

Oblivion groaned. “My back is hurting a bit. Sorry about that.” He sighed and ran his claws over her fur.

Sasa purred as she rubbed against him. “I am sorry that it hurts you. It will fade in time. Would you prefer I take that pain for you?”

“No, it’s fine. I’ll live.” He told her as he looked around for the lights of the Apple siblings. He saw Big Mac and started off to greet him.

The farmer was quiet as he looked at the now barren trees. Oblivion walked up behind him and waited before speaking. Sasa padded up next to him and waited. “Mac.”

The red pony jumped and turned to look behind him. “By Equestria Oblivion. Ah still think ya need ta wear a bell.”

“And as before I will keep that in mind.”

The red stallion saw the cat beside him and stared. “So that’s the cat ya were gonna help. Applejack mentioned it yesterday.”

“Yes, this is her. She is called Sasa.” He replied.

“She friendly?”

“Yes.” Oblivion gave the cat a gentle nudge. “Be nice or I will buck you.”

He saw the cat glance at him as she walked over to Big Mac. She sat in front of him and purred. “I’m always nice.” She replied.

Mac reached out and laid a hoof on her fur. He stroked her fur and the cat sat still and let him pet her. “She’s beautiful.” He commented. “Applejack said ya told her she was a big cat, but Ah didn’t think she was this big.”

Oblivion chuckled and nodded. “She was smaller before I helped her.”

Mac nodded. “Ya look like ya could use a bath. Yer furs all fouled up.”

Oblivion gave low groan. “Don’t remind me. But I still have my own work to accomplish. Any idea what I should be doing?”

“Taking a bath.”

“Haha. Funny pony. Seriously.”

“Well, we need ta go around and check each tree ta see if it needs to be rested this year or not.”

“And how in the Hells do you check that?”

“Well, it's hard ta explain. How about you stick with me and I will tell you a number and you write it down. When we are done Ah will look ta see what area has the highest score?” He explained.

“All right. That sounds fairly easy.” Oblivion focused his magic and a scroll and quill appeared in his magic.

He followed Mac through the orchards and after a couple of hours, the farmer looked through the papers and decided that the very far orchard would be allowed to go dormant and the other orchard across from it would be brought out of a dormant state. The two stallions walked back to the house and met up with Applejack. Mac told her what they had found out and she agreed.

“So did ya have fun in Canterlot?” She asked him. She looked to Sasa and was introduced as well. “Well ain’t she just a sweet little thing?”

Mac looked to his sister. “Little?”

“Well, not so little. Since she is close to my height.” Applejack commented. “But anyway, so ya had fun?”

“It was fine, thank you.” He replied to her.

“Even though he needs ta clean off.” Mac threw in, earning him a glare from Oblivion.

“What are ya covered in any way? Ya hate getting dirty like that.” Applejack said to him.

“It happens.” Oblivion replied.

“But what are ya covered in? Looks like mud or something.”

Oblivion said nothing in response for a moment. “It’s fine.”

“You may want to run Chosen. They will not stop asking.” Sasa advised.

“Well, I think I will go and wash off. My skin is starting to itch and it’s uncomfortable.” He replied as he walked past them, Sasa on his heels.

Oblivion trotted up the stairs and let Sasa into his room. He laid his swords inside the wardrobe and went to the bathroom. “You stay there.” He said to Sasa as he left the room. She rumbled a reply and laid on his bed. Oblivion went into the bathroom and closed the door behind him. He pulled off his cloak and laid it across the counter. His swords leaned against the door. He could see that there were blood spots on the inside of the cloak and he would need to have it washed again. He looked over his back and saw the deep scar as it twisted across his back. His mind went back to last night and the memories that it brought.

He shook his head to clear it and used his magic to start the water to fill the tub. He looked over the rest of his body and saw that it was in poor shape. He had lines of dried blood going down his sides and legs. It had left marks and matted his fur in place. The Alicorn was quiet as he pulled his wings from his sides and saw that they had blood stains on them as well. He knew it was from him lying on the floor. The tub filled and he stepped into it and laid down. He let the water go over his back, immediately the water began to change color. It was a mottled red and he cringed. His skin trembled under the heat of the water and the scar on his back shifted.

The black Unicorn looked back at the scar and cringed. He dunked his wings into the water and let the water loosen the dried blood and wash it off. He laid in silence as he let the water loosen the dried blood and sweat. Once that was done he stood up and used the soap to wash his fur and wings. He had to dunk the bar of soap several times to get the blood off of it. He used his magic to pick up water and wash the soap off. It took time but eventually, the suds from the soap lost the red tinge. The stallion stepped out of the tub and let it drain. He looked to see if there was a ring on the tub and was glad to see that there was none. His magic dried him off and he laid his cloak over his back to hide his wings. His ears flicked to find out where the family was and found them to be outside. He laid his swords over his back under his cloak and walked out the door to his room. Sasa looked up at him as he walked into the room.

“You look refreshed.” She commented to him. “Do you feel better, Chosen?”

Oblivion shrugged. “Now that all that dried blood and sweat it out of my coat, yes. I have trekked through marshes, swamps, and bogs but they bothered me less than this did.”

“It’s perspective. In your world, you do not have any way to avoid those places. Whereas in Equestria, you can.”

“Perhaps. Though I will need to speak with Rarity to have my cloak cleaned.” Sasa tilted her head. “It has blood on it as well. Probably from me wearing it.”

The stallion closed the door fully behind him and pulled his cloak off and laid it on the bed beside the cat. He looked to his swords and found that there blood spots on it from sitting on his back. The stallion looked to the wardrobe and summoned his saddle bags. The left opened and he pulled out his sword and leather treatment kit and pulled the silver blade out of the scabbard. He placed his saddle bags back in the wardrobe. The plain steel blade levitated to the baldric and it snapped into place. The Alicorn used leather soap to clean the scabbard of the weapon and wiped it clean. He held the hilt of the silver blade in his claws and applied a sword oil to the blade. He laid down on the floor and concentrated on the blade, so as not to activate the runes.

“Why don’t you blunt it and suppress the runes?” Sasa shifted till she was looking over him to watch what he was doing.

“I never blunt the silver blade. Thankfully I know how to handle it. I have been cleaning and tending to these swords for over a hundred years.” He said to her. His voice was quiet, despite knowing that the Apple family was outside.

Sasa purred and leaned her head down to nuzzle him. The stallion gave no indication of acknowledging the affectionate cat. He focused on tending to the weapon held in his claws. His wings flicked at his sides and he allowed them to lower to the floor and lay, boneless, against the ground. Sasa jumped off the bed and came to sit at his side.

“That blade is truly a beauty to behold, Chosen.” She said to him. She admired the blade as he used a cloth to rub the oil into the blade.

“It is one of the finest that I have wielded. I have others, but this one is the best of them.” He admitted to her.

“You have others with you?”

“Yes, though I am not sure how. My saddlebags seem to have no end as well. They have every item inside them, including ones I had stored in Dandelions inn.”

Sasa looked away from him for a moment before going back to watching him work. “Perhaps your saddlebags are similar to your magic?”

Oblivion stopped and looked to the open wardrobe, where his saddlebags hung. “I suppose that is possible.” He reached out to the saddlebags again and brought them back to him. The right opened and several steel and silver blades were levitated out of them. Sasa looked surprised at the weapons and stared.

“You weren’t kidding about them being with you. A blacksmith would drool over any one of these.”

“All were made by various master smiths. As I said my saddlebags seem to hold them all without any issue.”

Sasa growled in reply and nodded. Oblivion suddenly chuckled and the blades were placed back in and a bottle appeared in their place. He sent the saddlebags back to the wardrobe and set the bottle beside him. He popped the cork and took a drink of it.

“Ahh. Nothing quite like Mahakaman spirit. The spirits from last night were a grave disappointment.” He shook his head as the drink burned his mouth and throat for several seconds.

“What is it?”

“Plainly speaking, it is alcohol. Though a great deal stronger than what is here so far as I know.” He set it back down and went back to tending to the weapon in his claws.

Sasa leaned over and sniffed the bottle. She pulled back and sneezed as it burned her nose. “By my claws! Is it meant to burn like that?” She rubbed her nose between her paws.

Oblivion gave a low laugh at his companion’s expense. “Yes, it is supposed to burn. It’s a strong drink in my world.” His ear flicked as he heard the front door open and hooves came up the stairs. His magic pulled his cloak down and he laid it over his back, hiding his wings. The door opened and he waited.

Applejack pushed open the door and found him lying on the floor with the enormous cat sitting by him. “So this is where ya’ll are hiding. Ya didn’t come back out so Ah wasn’t sure where ya were.”

Oblivion looked at her. “Am I needed?”

Applejack shook her head. “Nah. Just checking on ya.”

Oblivion nodded and looked to the desk. His magic pulled the hair tie to him and he pulled his mane up so that he could put his cloak back on the bed. Applejack looked and saw the hilt of the silver sword.

“Ah still can’t get over how pretty that sword of yer’s is. Ah went ta pay Torque the next day and he was still starry-eyed over it.” The mare suddenly looked serious.

Oblivion looked to her before saying anything. “Yes, Applejack? You look to have something on your mind.”

“I need ya ta decide about speaking ta Apple Bloom’s class again or not. A lot of the foals are waiting for fer ya ta choose.”

“Damn.” Oblivion sighed. “Using my sword in a demonstration is not a normal thing for me. Any exercise I do is meant to hone my skills to kill. I don’t use it lightly, AJ.”

“Ah know that but the foals don’t. All they know is that they like ya.”

Oblivion went silent as he considered. Sasa nudged him with her snout to get his attention.

“You could teach them.” She looked to him and growled.

Oblivion looked at her. “Are you out of your mind?” He voiced to her.

Applejack looked at him, her eyes searching. “Who ya talking to?”

“I can understand Sasa. I was speaking to her.” He informed the orange mare.

Applejack’s eyes widened. “Just her or can ya hear others?”

“Just her.”

“For now.” Sasa piped in.

Oblivion looked at her with a short glare. “She commented that I should teach them instead or a demonstration.”

Applejack looked at him. “They would love that Ah think. Ah know Apple Bloom would. Maybe they use wooden swords for play?”

Oblivion looked to the mare. “You are considering this? Applejack I have not trained any pony in a long time. I did for a time before the School’s stopped training Witchers. To anypony else, the techniques we use are not kind. Our methods are meant to mold a colt into a Witcher. Celestia commented that I should train their guards. I declined since my training is from the School of the Wolf and is meant to break a pony and turn them into a Witcher.”

Applejack looked away from him as she thought it over. “Well, then they liked the story ya told.”

Oblivion sighed. “I’m aware that they enjoyed it. But I had to alter that story to make it appropriate.”

“Ya did. But couldn’t ya do that with others as well?”

“Perhaps tell them of a new monster?” Sasa said to him through their link.

“Such as?” Oblivion turned to her and waited.

The cat appeared to be thinking as Applejack stepped forward. “What about using a story about another Witcher?”

Oblivion snorted. “Any stories that I have heard are pretty vulgar or brutal. Witcher's tell each other the stories for a good laugh. Then again.” Oblivion looked to the sword in his hoof for several moments. “There is one that I have heard from Geralt.”

Applejack and Sasa both looked to him. “What was it about?”

“He was searching for a charge of ours that has gone missing. She has the ability to travel through time and space. Her name is Ciri. Well, that’s the name she goes by. Her true name is much longer and has several titles attached to it. He was searching for her in a war-ravaged area called Velen. Several clues were given to him and he was searching for a witch that Ciri had quarreled with. He met up with a Godling, they are mischievous, but generally not harmful.”

Applejack nodded at him. “That sounds like a nice story.”

“He did have to kill a few drowners that tried to attack the Godling as he followed it but nothing horrific. I suppose that one would work. I always take on contracts that are more brutal in comparison.”

“Why?”

“I’m good at them I suppose. I have never really thought of it. I just take a contract that comes my way and see if I can accomplish it. I have yet to find one that has beaten me. Until recently anyway.’

Sasa cringed a bit at his thought and nudged him with one paw. “Failure means that you died Chosen. You did not die in the true sense of the word.” She said to him through their link.

Applejack smiled. “Ah think that would be a good story ta tell. The foals would love it. And Ah heard that ya can draw so ya could draw out parts of the story.”

Oblivion blanched. “Why in the Hells would you want me to draw a Drowner? They are hideous at best.”

“How bad can they be?” Applejack replied.

Oblivion gave her a blank look before his horn lit and he summoned a quill and scroll. The quill drew over the blank surface and after several minutes he turned the drawing so Applejack could see it.

She yelped at the sight and looked to him. “Okay, maybe don’t draw a drowner.” Oblivion nodded and the drawing was incinerated. “Whats a Godling look like?”

Oblivion looked to her and summoned another scroll. He drew the small figure and turned it to her.

“They look harmless. Ya could show off that one.” Oblivion looked at it and it was incinerated. Sasa looked to the stallion and purred. “Seems like we got it figured out. So when ya take her ta school tomorrow ya can tell them.”

Oblivion nodded. “Very well. Though I still have my reservations about it. But I will relent in this case. Though if they ask for sword work I will decline.”

Applejack nodded in understanding and left his room. He sighed as she pulled the door closed for him as she left. He destroyed the quill and drawings in his grasp and looked back to the blade. He finished cleaning it and slid it back into the scabbard. He looked to the cat as she sat by him.

“I do not understand why they enjoy my company so much. I understand that I am different but how is that important enough to ask for my presence again?” He asked the feline.

Sasa looked to him and shrugged. “Perhaps it is because you are different. That means that you are different from them and a children's nature is to seek out what is different and try to understand.”

Oblivion snorted and gulped some of his drink. “Perhaps. But it is odd to me either way.”

Sasa giggled in his mind. “Perhaps that is a good thing, my Chosen. You have always been scorned and rebuked. But now children are seeking you out for a story and whatnot. Have you ever been around children?”

“If you count Ciri yes. But if not then no. I have nothing against children, I simply have next to no experience with them. Though Ciri is a different story entirely.” He said to her.

“I do not know anything about her, save what you have already said. But she sounds like a unique person.”

“You have no idea. She is a queen of several countries. But we did not truly know that when Geralt brought her to Kaer Morhen. She was good at the training and we all spoiled her to some extent. Vesemir and Geralt especially. But that is to be expected. Vesemir was her uncle. And Geralt… He was a father to her. That's how she always saw him and he did nothing to stop that thinking.”

“What were you to her?”

Oblivion chuckled and looked down at his hooves. “A taskmaster probably. She and I never had a very close relationship. I cared about her that is true, but I never let it go further than that. Perhaps I should have. Too late now for that thought.”

Sasa bumped her head against his. “You have the chance to be that now. You have three ponies who are siblings to you now. Blood does not always equal family. I’m sure Ciri knows that you would have jumped the continent for her if she needed you.”

“True enough. I bent for her every now and then. I did let her ride on my shoulders when she was young, so long as she did not pull my hair.” Oblivion chuckled as he thought back to the young girl.

Sasa purred through a mental laugh. “See? She knew you well. She learned from you and you from her. I’m sure she will miss you. Did she go through the mutations?”

“No. She never did. She went through much of the training but not that far. Vesemir always said that she was not the fastest or the strongest of his trainees, but she had three times their character. I had to agree with him when he said that. She was a spitfire, there was no arguing that.”

Sasa nuzzled him and laid down beside him. Oblivion corked the bottle of spirit and set it in the wardrobe. He leaned back against the bed when he heard the door downstairs bang as it closed. “Here we go.” Apple Bloom reached the doorway and knocked gently on it. “Come in.”

The door opened and Apple Bloom yelped at the sight of the large cat. “Wow. Applejack was right she is big. She’s so pretty though. Whats ‘er name?”

“She is called Sasa.” Oblivion informed the filly.

“Can I pet her?”

“Ask her.” Oblivion deadpanned to the filly as his magic leaned the baldric against his bed.

Apple Bloom looked at the stallion then to the cat who turned to look at her, blue eyes shining. “Umm, can I pet you?”

Sasa stood up and laid down, facing the filly. She nodded and Apple Bloom walked up to her, lifting a hoof to stroke her nose. “She’s so soft.” Apple Bloom giggled as she petted the cat.

Oblivion said nothing as the filly cooed at the cat. “She’s a sweet little filly.” Sasa thought over to him. Apple Bloom looked to her eldest brother and walked around the feline to stand in front of him.

“Applejack said ya were gonna tell mah class another story. Was she tellin’ the truth?”

Oblivion looked to the filly and sighed. “Yes. I will inform… ack.” His breath cut off as the filly wrapped her forelegs around his neck in a tight hug. He shifted to try to breathe easier but found that the foal had a tight grip. He held his breath as he waited for the filly to release him. She let go and he released the breath he had been holding.

“This will be so much fun!” Apple Bloom gushed as Oblivion breathed air into his lungs. “The others will be so happy ta see ya.”

Sasa laughed at Oblivion as he breathed. “She got you, Chosen.” The cat purred as she continued to laugh. Oblivion's horn lit and the cat yelped like a small bit of lightning hit her flank. She turned to glare at him and he smirked at the cat.

“Calm down Apple Bloom. I know you are excited but, calm yourself.” He said to the bouncing filly.

Apple Bloom stopped and turned to her eldest brother. “But.”

Oblivion held up a hoof as he got to his hooves. “As I said I know you are excited but hold back a bit.”

The filly looked to the floor then up to him and nodded. “Oh. I needed ta thank ya as well.”

The Unicorn looked to the filly and waited. She ran out of the room and he heard her coming back a few moments later. She was holding a piece of paper in her teeth and handed it to him. He turned it over and saw the drawing of the troll that he had helped her to draw. A 100 was written in the corner along with several colorful images. He looked down at her and gave the drawing back to her.

“Ah got a perfect score! Ah made sure ta tell anyone that asked who had helped me to make the drawing. They were all asking about it when Miss Cheerilee handed them out on Friday. She showed mine ta the class.” The filly gushed to him.

Oblivion nodded to her. “I’m glad it got you the grade you wanted. You did a good job drawing it.”

“It was really great to draw it on my own. You were really good at telling me how to draw it without doing it for me. Thanks again, big brother.” Apple Bloom hugged his leg and left his room.

He watched her go and looked down at Sasa. “Not sure I will ever get used to being called that.” He said aloud.

“You will in time.” She said to him as she leaned against his shoulder.

Oblivion walked out of the room after locking the wardrobe and putting his swords onto his back. The stallion walked down the stairs, with Sasa on his heels and went outside to help if they needed him.