//------------------------------// // Family Ties // Story: Keys of Harmony // by BioQuillFiction //------------------------------// I gulped as I looked up at the two. I was so fucked. I had left both Luna and Flutters in the dark that I was back! “Hehe...How are you two?” I said with a scared chuckle. “Well, for one we can call off the searches for you, that’s a start.” Luna said, her tone icy. “I told you I was going off on my mark of mastery…” I wince “We expected it to last a week at most.” “heh...I take it a ‘I’m sorry’ isn’t going to cut it?” I said, now hoping they don’t notice the scar on my neck. “Your sister and brother were starting to think you were dead.” Luna added. “Umm...We were all scared for you Eclipse...Especially me.” Fluttershy said. Damn, that mare could guilt trip without trying to guilt trip. “I’m sorry...to all of you. I now pinkie promise that I will never leave for more than a week on purpose. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” I said with a sad frown. “Before we forgive you, we have a few questions and new rules now.” Luna said, finally cracking a small smile. Oh boy. “Okay, I should have expected this. Let's hear them.” I said, sitting up right. “First off, we want to know exactly what possessed you to want an orphanage? I mean, it’s a good idea, but still, it’s a tad… out of the blue.” “I uhm...Agree with Luna. As much as I love little fillies and colts, it is sudden.” I sighed. “I...Fine. I’ll tell you two. Just… please don’t tell anyone else. Let this skeleton stay amongst us, please?” “Alright.” Luna agreed as Fluttershy nodded. “So...You remember how we had that mission a while back...where we went to Radiant Garden? I had told the others to leave when a member of my old family showed up. She would have killed them without mercy. As soon as they had left...we fought. I outclassed her, she was barely able to get a hit on me, but she damaged Oathkeeper. Oblivion and I both lost it and started to wail on her relentlessly until...Until I used Stopga, and rapidly slashed her exposed stomach with the intent to kill. Yes, I killed her...but I also found out she was pregnant at that moment as her unborn infant came out of the wound. I killed a unborn child and a person who I later found out that her sole dream was to be a mother.” I said before taking a ragged breath, tears starting to roll down my cheek. “I...I wanted to be punished for what I did. I told the X-blade what had happened, and he gave me the sentence of being the owner of an orphanage until the day I die. He said I had taken a life before it had a chance to life, so I must live the rest of mine supporting others in the start of theirs.” I looked up and turned to the two mares. “He was too kind. But I don’t plan on going back on his word. I...I have to make up for that child.” While Fluttershy was looking sick and was contemplating things, Luna just looked at me, tears of her own falling as she pat my head. “I… remember everything Nightmare Moon and I did you know. Before she even took over… I’d kill servants for small, stupid things, just because I was angry… When she took over, we nearly killed Celestia, but we killed over half the castle staff that day. Some of which were… homeless foals who worked for housing… I know how hard that is to cope with Eclipse, right after sister took me to Canterlot, I broke down in tears for weeks, remembering all those deaths all at once. She said the best advice was to find something to help heal me, or at least distract me. Games distracted me, but you Eclipse, you healed me.” “Luna…” I said as I embraced her. “Let us heal you now Eclipse, the things we may do, weather intentional or not, help define us, shape us. While these moments in our lives were some of the darkest, we can only accept it as our past and move forward to become new, better ponies.” “Thank you…” I said as, without letting go of Luna, I turned to look at Fluttershy. She seemed to inhale deeply, trying to muster strength. “W-while I can look pasted what you did Eclipse… lives were still ended… to me… I can only think of one… punishment for you every time you kill, past or future.” “I...I understand. What do you want me to do?” I said gloomily. “Foals.” She said plainly. “For every life you end, a foal will be birthed by Luna or I. As much as I’d like a big family, this will show us how well you can try and save somepony.” I blinked. And blinked again. Then a small measure of panic started to worm it’s way in...as well as excitement if I am to be honest with myself. “W-Woah Flutters! A-As much as that is a good incentive, us three are not even married yet!” I said. “Neither where my parents til my brother was born.” She retorted. “Lot’s of ponies are parents without being married, all that matters are that the parents are both there for the foal, look at Derpy and Doc, they have a little filly and they live in diffrent houses, save for holidays.” “Th-that's true.” I admitted. ….what? Being raised in this society you learn a thing or two about it! “Well, in that case, before Fluttershy’s punishment takes effect we have one last rule.” Luna said. “Well, one rule, the other an option. Option is that we name the foals after who you killed, rule is that from now on, you set a time frame of when you leave til when you come back. Gone any longer by even a day, you’re gonna have to haul plot to make it up to us, both romantically and bedroom wise.” I smiled weakly. “Of all the mares in the Multiverse, I get pared with the two most beautiful, horny ones of the bunch...besides Rune. You two are NEVER meeting her!” I said jokingly “Fine, but first off.” Luna and Shy got off the bed and Luna held me on my back with her magic. “Since your punishment, both for being gone too long and killing are being in effect, mare’s rules for the bedroom. Shy, go get the trunk, I’ll get him started.” Fluttershy gave what I could only describe as the most perverted blush I have ever seen as she skipped out the door while Luna got ontop of me. “Time for you to be on the bottom dear.” She cooed in my ear as she started biting it. It’s going to be a long, long night. I woke up to the room smelling heavily of last night’s activities. I swear, if it wasn’t for spells I would be broken right now...hell I still hurt after all those spells. I groaned as I sat up between the two loves of my life. “Yeah...Called it. Said I would feel it in the morning.” I said quietly as to not disturb their slumber. Thankfully, the last thing on their mind last night was my eye color and the scar...that would have been a bitch and a half explaining. I trotted downstairs to the kitchen to start and cook breakfast. While Spike may do most of the cooking, who do you think taught the little guy? Sure as hell wasn’t Twilight. I was in the process of finishing the last plate when I heard one of the mares trotting down the steps. “Breakfast!” I yelled as I flipped the pancake from the stove onto the last place with practiced ease. First to fly down was Fluttershy, a blissful smile plastered across her face. “Yum.” She said sleepily, giving me a quick kiss before sitting down. “If that didn’t knock me up… we go again til you do.” She said, taking a bit of pancake. “Until my bones are grinded to dust, sure!” I joke. “That’s the spirit.” She replied, still eating. “You know, as much as I found the shy Fluttershy cute, I love the open you.” I said as I picked up the other two plates. “If I was closed what happened last night must have been a dream then.” She joked. “That is definitely true.” I said with a nuzzle. “I’m going to go wake Luna for breakfast. I’ll be right back down.” Time to face the monster that is Luna in the morning. I trotted back up to our room before gently knocking on it. “Morning Luna, time to get up.” I said in a normal volume. “One moment.” Her sentence was followed by a thud. I immediately opened the door to see her face down on the floor. “Can’t walk, legs still jelly.” She said. I held back laughter, but my face must have given me away, I never was good at hiding facial expressions. “Well, do you want to come down and eat with us, or breakfast in bed?” “With these dirty sheets? Carry me please.” I let myself chuckle as I came over to help her out. A few minutes of trying to find the right way to hold her, I ended up standing on my hind legs and carrying her bridal style. Normally this would be okay, but this is not, I repeat, not how a pony should naturally walk. “You know this is not anatomically possible, right?” She asked as we got down the stairs. “Chalk it up to magic and move on.” I groaned as my legs started to hurt by the time we had gotten down the stairs. I placed her on her seat next to Fluttershy and I took mine. “So, we already filled out the paperwork for the foals in the area without homes, and from a overcrowded home in Manehattan to be moved here.” Fluttershy said. “They’ll get to see open fields and nature for once.” “That’ll be good for them… those fields are quite lovely around spring and summer.” I said with a smile. “I just hope they eye doesn’t put them off.” “Since I’m gonna live here now Celestia is having guards be posted here for day and night watch, so a barracks is being built some blocks away.” Luna said. “That is a double edged sword. Yeah it means less crime, but if the Heartless try to attack, the guard are pretty much useless and are just more hearts for them.” I made mention. “But at least the foals will feel safe.” “What about Zeke? Or Justin? Can’t they do something about that?” “Justin would help me, you two and the rest of us fight them, but Zeke probably wouldn’t get here in time. Also, we are only thirteen ponies, we can’t be everywhere.” “I mean can’t they give them Keyblades. Justin told us about an inheritance ceremony thing, and Zeke can just hand them out.” I paused. “True, but wielding a keyblade is different from wielding a average sword.” “Zeke has a whole world/reflection wielding them, surely our guards can learn also.” Luna added. “Fine, I'll ask Justin next time I see him.” I said surrendering. “Other than that you gotta tell Twi and them you’re alive and send a letter to your brother.” Shy added. “Also, Twilight is a princess now.” “.....How much did I miss?” “Well, Twilight and Trixie are kinda dating, Rainbow is a wonderbolt, Twilight also beat a massive magic stealing monster, though the keyblades also helped a lot, Discord is dating Celestia, Applejack found out Cure can be used to bring back wilted apples, keeping them fresh longer, and Spike has his own room, also Twilight’s old library was destroyed and replaced with a massive crystal tree castle, and lastly You’re gonna be an uncle cause Shining armor and Cadence are having a baby.” Fluttershy filled me in. “Also they got married, wedding was crashed, the Changeling responsible is now… living with Pinkie Pie, her subjects just kinda around now making lives for themselves.” “...you know, sometimes I forget one thing about Equestria, all major events happen around the same time. I'm just going to absorb this info and move on before my brain starts to hurt.” “Not to mention the crystal Empire, or, was Zeke’s Daybreak. Justin actually handled that with Spike’s help, the two are a really big hero duo there.” Luna added. “That's good for Spike. He always wanted some more recognition. Well, now he has it.” I said with a smile. “So much happened in three months, it’s crazy.” Fluttershy said. “Well, at least you’re back and things have been quiet for a week so far.” “Lets just enjoy what time fate has decided to let us have, and not tempt her.” I said as I took a bite of my food. “So far the only bad thing has been the heartless. They started appearing near town and in most everywhere in Equestria.” Luna said. “Luckily dragon fire is good at getting most of them, save for the fire related ones, so the dragon lands are safe.” Oathkeeper and Oblivion both decided to appear next to me. “No need to say it you two. After I spend time with my family, we have a job to do.” I said to the two blades before they disappeared again. “So, any other news I should know?” “Well, we keep getting letters for you.” Fluttershy said. “They’re addressed to you and have no return address.” “Really? That's odd. Well, if they are so determined to contact me I had better read one after breakfast.” I said, wondering who would want something with me, but not leave a return address. “They’re in a pile in the living room.” Shy said. “We figured if they’re for you best let you open them.” “This is going to be a long day…” I said with a faint smile as I looked to the other room seeing a huge pile. I grabbed one and opened it with magic. Turn around. Confused I looked behind me… only to see a brown haired and brown eyed Zeke. “Sup?” He asked. “Okay, let me get this out of my system because a lot of news were told to me today. Okay...WHAT THE BUCK?!” I said as I looked at the Zeke wannabe. “There we go, all better now.” “What, you’re a unicorn, you never hear of teleporting?” He asked. “Not that, the fact that I JUST now read that letter from who knows how long ago and you appear, also you look a hell of a lot like Zeke.” I said bluntly. “First off, yeah, I know, odd for me to when I met him, also as a god, you have way too much time to kill, so I just kinda waited and watched til finally I sensed the letter open.” “And you two are okay with this?” I said turning to Luna and Flutters. “We had no idea he was here.” Luna said. “Yeah, I watched from my realm, kinda got the whole realms, which to simplify is a multiverse of multiverses, to watch on my TV, cause why not? All fiction written or watched is are certain events in people's lives being put on display, ten bucks says this is being written down right now.” “Suckers bet. A while ago it felt like and I quote myself, the author of a bad fanfiction couldn't be bothered to write a epic fight scene.” “Ha! I like you, you broke the fourth wall. Anyway, before Pinkie suddenly shows up for no reason, I am here to offer you Eclipse, aka Colin Ventral, a place in my family as an adopted son. Perks include a curse that makes you genetically my child and whoever your new mother is gonna be, not to say you won’t still have genes from your family already, I read this story, the title and powers of a demigod, then you gain enough power and heroic acts and become a god, god, and endless amount of siblings, and mothers, don’t ask, and other shit I am not mentioning at the moment. Also, names Cript.” Cript finished. “Okay, Other than liking me for breaking the fourth wall thanks to being around Pinkie Pie too much, why offer me this at all? I barely know you.” “First off your friends Ben and the Foretellers have already joined on conditions, Zeke is thinking it over, and to add to my family. Always like doing that cause, well, it’s a big family. Also you guys all have interested me, and since my specific god/admin hood keeps me from fighting most threats directly, I can help you this way, or I can just place random yet convenient things around for you to pick up. Heck, I place chests around this one guys world to mess with him.” I sighed. “Look, we- I mean I appreciate the offer, but everything I am I have earned myself. Maybe with a little help here and there but it was still me.” I think at this moment something disturbed him about my eye for a second. “I'm sorry, but I'll pass. Who knows though, I may change my mind later.” I said in my classic laid back tone. “If you say so, just call for me or open another letter if you do. Can I give you a gift though?” “Eh, would be rude of me to turn one down. Sure.” I said with a smile. “It’s just some advice.” Cript kneeled down and whispered into my ear. “Don’t let that small third voice start shouting.” With that, he disappeared in a blink. “Well...he kept to his name, that was just cryptic!” I said with some humor. Just then, a small drum, some drum sticks, and two symbols appeared and did the ‘da-da-dud’ thing. “I guess he liked it?” Fluttershy said as they fell to the floor. “Well… more toys for the foals at least.” “I guess. Well, that's one way to start off the day. Now lets see what more pandemonium will ensue.” I told the girls I’d be back around nine or earlier, this was gonna be a long day but I hope not that long, and headed off to Twilight’s new home, which was easy to see in the daytime. It was HUGE! How did I miss it at night even? It’s so… sparkly. I walked up and knocked on the door. “Twilight, are you still reading or did Spike used sleep on you last night?” I yelled. I heard a lot of stepping and running before the door was thrown open and Spike, the lovable drake he is, tackled me to the ground with a teary hug. “Your back! It is you right?” I laughed before hugging the dragon. “Yes Spike, I'm home.” it was during thing that I heard a voice being cleared and looked up to see Twilight standing at the door. “Wow Twi, you're as tall as me now. Nice wings.” She only ran up to me, nearly choking me with her hug. “I thought you were dead you idiot!” She yelled while tears started forming in her eyes. “Come on Twi, you should know I don't go down easy.” I said before group hugging the two of them. “And I don't plan on leaving anytime soon.” “Three months beg to differ when you start worrying.” She said, wiping away her tears. “W… where did you get that scar on your neck?” Leave it to Twilight to see details. I was surprised she didn't notice my eye color yet. “It’s a long story. One that I'll tell you when younger ears are not present.” I said with a quick glance to Spike who was busy hugging me. “Alright.” She said, letting go. “So, when did you get back?” “Last night. Luna and Fluttershy chewed me out already and have punished me in their own way.” I said causally. “Oh, alright then. So they told you about… everything?” She asked. “They gave me the summary. Man, all those events in only three months?!” “I know, it’s been hectic. So then they told you about Trixie and I?” “Yeah, and all I can say is took you two long enough! Seriously, it was obvious for me for a while! The sexual tension was through the roof!” She blushed. “Yeah, we both figured that being… bi, we might add a stallion later on if we can find a nice one.” She admitted. “So, other than that we’re gonna be an aunt and an uncle!” She said, quickly cheering up. “I heard! Can’t wait to see Shining after so long! And a uncle? I call dibs on the fun loving one!” “You dork.” She said, play punching me. “So, I’ll write a letter to mom and dad saying you finally came back. I’ll just tell them for now you were with Zeke or something.” “Sounds good. I don't think they'll enjoy hearing how I started my Mark of Mastery.” I said honestly. “Wait, our parents or Zeke?” “Our parents. It's...the reason Spike won't be in the room when I tell you how I got the scar.” “Alright. So, Trixie is out getting some stuff, you gonna be here for a while or you got things to do?” I smiled. “Unless something comes up, I don't plan on leaving anytime soon.” “Great, come on in, there’s some soda’s and stuff from Zeke’s reflection Justin gave out and they taste amazing!” I chuckled and followed her in with a Spike riding on my back. “So, the orphanage is opening either today or tomorrow.” “Fluttershy said the foals should be there by tomorrow, so tomorrow I guess.” Twilight replied from the fridge. “Catch.” She said, tossing me a caned… Dr. Pepper. “These are my favorite so far.” She said, taking on out to. “Don't question it Eclipse, just don't question it.” I said to myself as I popped open the can. “So, how's being officially royalty?” “Surprisingly dull. Since Celestia and her courts handle all the major paperwork in Equestria I just kinda hang out with my friends, Luna, and Trixie of course. We’ve… gone that far already.” “I'm happy for you two.” I said smiling “How's been Sorin and Guilda holding up? They still show up for practice?” “Dating and getting fined with public indesidy cause sex on clouds.” She replied casually. “They just need a room already.” “Who knows Twi, They may be exobisionists. They do exist.” I said as if we were talking about the weather. “Har har. Anyway, other than what Fluttershy and Luna already told you the only minor things are that those Heartless are getting more and more common, some… new ones… have also appeared.” “New ones?” I said leaning forward. “Part human like Justin and them, part Heartless, like the two are fused together, and some pony ones too…. We try to capture them, but they can teleport with their darkness, so they always get away. We’re trying not to kill them in case they can be cured.” “Core is probably behind that.” I said with a growl. “Justin figured also. Oh yeah, guess who he’s dating now.” “Wait, Justin as a date in our reflection?” “Yeah, he’s dating Chearlee. The two hit it off really well. Not sure how… you know, sex works there, but I guess that’s between them.” “Huh...didn't expect that. Well they are both teachers so I guess it makes sense.” I said with a shrug. “So I hear Chrysalis is living with Pinkie?” “Yeah. Her people were starving so Justin vouched to help them after it was revealed that she wasn’t Cadence. After some tests and trial and errors we found a way to give them a ‘Love substitute’ in the form of a special mana infused powder we can bake, and since it’s flavorless you can’t tell you get one heck of a mana jump til you cast a spell.” “That's awesome! Well, glad things have been looking up so far.” I said with a grin. In reality, Wolf and I were both worried. It is normally when things look bright that something bad pops up, and we couldn't shake that feeling. “So, other than a few things mom and dad said they have an announcement to make to you, me, and Shining later when we can all make it to Canterlot.” “Really? I wonder what it could be...well we are just going to have to find out later now won't we?” I said as I finished my soda. “Yeah. The letter didn’t say much only that we should come by before the end of the month.” “Heh, it's almost like they knew I would show up about now. Well, we’ll plan with Shining and our own lovers to try and visit. Besides, I haven't seen mom and dad is gods...ever.” “I know, last time I saw them at Shining’s wedding they were so happy for him, and hoped when you came back you’d be getting hitched soon.” “Heh...little do they know their sons have a thing for princesses.” I joke. “And Fluttershy is so much better now she has broken out of her shell. I loved her before, but I love her even more now.” “Yeah, stuff has happened and she really has grown into a strong pony, she still has her shy moments but not nearly as bad as when we first came here. Man… feels just like yesterday when we moved here, I was being such a bitch to everyone thinking I only needed you, Shining, and Spike. I honestly don’t know how my other reflections have survived without you being their twin.” “Heh, well, I try.” I said scratching the back of my head. “Sadly I wasn't here all those times you could have used me. I wish I didn't have to take that Mark of Mastery if it meant I could have helped.” “To be honest maybe it was for the best. With all that’s happened we had to rely on ourselves and not you. We got stronger because of it.” “That's good. I still wish I could have helped but at least there is a silver lining.” I said. “Anything else you want to talk about?” “Well that’s it for the most part. That does about wrap up all that happened so not much else to tell.” “Well, at least I'm here now. I mean, I missed my brother’s wedding, I am not missing his kid being born.” “The baby isn’t born yet dummy, it takes eight months for that, though, I wonder if Cadence being an alicorn has any effects about birth that are changed?” “Knowing our family? Probably.” I said bluntly. “Hell they didn't even know I was there until the day we were born. Said it was like I popped into existence.” “Technically you did.” Twilight said, patting my back. “And I was so lucky to be there when you did.” I smiled as I felt our bond. I explained this earlier but whenever Twilight is close, I can feel our bond as siblings. It is hard to truly explain but it makes me happy none of the less. “And I was lucky to be born into this amazing, if crazy, family.” “Yeah. What are the odds, my two brothers marry princesses, become princes, and I do something that I get turned into a princess. Heh, life’s odd.” “I chalked it up to a whole lot of good karma. Besides, Luna and I are not married yet….though I plan to fix that soon.” I said with a small smile. “Dibs on being the witness!” “Ha! As long as you learn from Pinkie how to hide, sure!” I said with a chuckle. “Either way I am confused about something.” “What is it Twi?” “Why is your eye a different color? I mean, when we were little and you’d get mad I saw it change sometimes but I thought I was just seeing things. Now it is red.” “That...I guess I can tell you now.” I said patting Spike on the head. “Long story short, I stopped denying my darkness. I accepted it as a part of me and who I am and as a reminder in a sense, I have this.” I said, pointing to my eye. “This was my natural eye color as a human, though it does not represent anything good.” “Huh… Well, at least you made peace with… yourself? Anyway, you should go show Vinyl that, she’s the only other pony I know with red eyes so her seeing you would make her day.” “I bet! Besides, I owe her a drink after losing that bet a while ago.” “Better late than never to pay it back.” “No kidding. Well, I should probably tell the others I'm back in town. Besides, I need to buy a horn ring for Luna and a marriage necklace for Fluttershy.” “Good idea. I’ll head over to the orphanage and I’ll be waiting. Till then you go do your things, oh, and if you see Trixie tell her where I went.” “Will do! And Spike, I need you to keep quiet. I'll get you a sugar diamond while I'm out if you do k?” The little guy saluted me as he ran over to Twilight. We headed our separate ways. First on my list was getting those marriage jewelry pieces. I headed up to the only jewelry store in town and asked for anything that looks amazing to give to mares you were gonna propose to. The clerk smiled, bringing out a rather wide selection of options. For Luna I got her a horn ring with a blue diamond and white diamond cut to look like a crescent moon, and for Shy I picked a emerald and pink diamond cut and designed to look like a flower was growing out of it, or on it anyway. They were pricy but this was for them and I had the money. I got them boxed and bagged and headed off, where I bumped into Trixie. “Oh, Eclipse?!” Trixie said in surprise. “Hey Trix, how's it been?” I said with a smile “Took you long enough to ask Twilight out.” “Heh, she asked me out actually. But it’s good to see you finally back. I’m gonna assume you were already told about everything that happened?” “Pretty much. I was just buying some stuff to purpose to Luna and Flutters.” “Oh, that’s amazing! Congrats. Twi and I want to find a decent stallion before marrying, though every stallion in Ponyville is either paired up, perverted, or gay so it’s been… not easy.” “Ah you two will find the lucky guy eventually.” I said smiling. “I just noticed you stopped speaking in third person, congrats!” “Oh, yeah. After Twilight and I started dating I just… stopped. Nowadays I only speak like that when I get angry, old habits. Been a showmare for so long I now realized how self centered and stupid talking like that was.” “Heh, well, You've changed for the better in my opinion. Oh and also Twilight is at the orphanage with Luna, Shy and Spike. She wants to be the witness.” “Oh, I better head over then. I was just picking up some of the supplies from Justin. Daybreak seems to be doing good, even with what happened to Zeke.” “What happened to Zeke?” I ask worried. “Not sure. Justin just said that he was found falling out of a DTD with his legs missing. From what I figured it was a bad scene.” I had to control myself from opening a DTL and checking up on him. “Well, I'm sure he’s alright.” “Yes actually. News recently is that he has some kinda metal legs now that act no different than the old ones, so he can walk again.” “That's good. Well, I had better finish saying hi to everypony before I head back.” “Applejack is at her stall so that’s another pony off your checklist. I’ll be off then.” Trixie said as we parted ways. Finding Applejack was easy, her stall is always in the same place. When she spotted me she gave me a smile. “Well na’ look who came back from the dead.” “Ha I never died AJ. But yeah, I'm back!” I said trotting over to the stand. “Well glad ta’ know you are alright. Luna and Shy was real worried about you.” “Yeah, I know. I'm planning on proposing later on today.” “Well shoot, now ah’ owe Rainbow thirty bits. Well, congratulations anyway. Seems like everypony but Pinkie, Rarity, Rainbow and I are lucky in love.” “Ah you’ll find somepony. Besides, with RD didn't she say no to Sorin before I left? Also, you two were betting on me?” “Yeah, was wondering if you’d propose or would Luna have to step up and do it. Also, maybe. Honestly Rainbow wants somepony who can beat her in a fight or race, and Pinkie, Rarity and I all plan on trying to jump on Twilight’s herd if she finds somepony.” “Surprised Rainbow doesn't challenge every single stallion during heat week in that case. Anyways, I just came to say ‘hey I'm alive’ and to see how you're doing.” “Well I’m doin fine. Pinkie and Crysalis should be at Sugarcube Corner, Rarity is likely in her shop and Rainbow isn’t here, she went to Cloudsdale for a Wonderbolts tournaments.” “She really has achieved her dream. Well, she's going to be jealous that she was the last to see me back.” “Maybe. I still gotta run the stall, you head on to everypony else then.” “Will do AJ. Say hi to the family for me!” I said as I headed out. I walked over to Sugarcube Corner, where I was met with the odd sight of queen Chrysalis in an apron behind the counter. “Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, what would you like?” She said with a small smile. “Hey I'm a friend of Pinkie’s, could you tell her Eclipse is back?” I asked smiling back. “Oh, you’re Eclipse?” “Yeah, nice to meet you. Chrysalis right?” “Yes. I was told a lot about you.” “All the good things I hope!” I said with a laugh. “Mostly. I’ll go get Pinkie, you wait here.” She walked up the stairs, coming back down with Pinkie. “Hi Eclipse!” Pinkie said, waving. “Hey Pinkie! How's been Ponyville's resident energy ball?” I said trotting over to her. “Been super!” She said, jumping up and down. “Having Chrysalis for a roommate has been interesting to say the least.” “Same can be said about you, you know?” Chrysalis said. “It’s definitely nicer than the hive, but Pinkie pretty much keeps life interesting if nothing else.” “That our Pinkie for yah! Oh and Pinkie, I plan on proposing to Luna and Shy when I get back home, want to plan the party?” Her response was pulling out a rather large book from nowhere. “I’ve been planning your bachelor party for, well, since you got here!” “Oh and Pinkie, I kinda picked up on the whole fourth wall thing.” I said, much to Chrysalis's confusion. “Oh goodie! That means the chapter is going to have a twist!” “Probably. Anyways, you’re on the case, and you know I'm back. Nice seeing you again and nice to meet you Chrysalis!” “Same?” Chrysalis said, shaking her head. “I either got to go insane to get used to this or ignore it.” I headed off, making my way to Rarity’s boutique. Upon entering I was met with a room completely packed with crates and other such things. Man, she’s been busy. After a bit, Rarity came down. “Welcome to- Eclipse! Darling it’s so good to see you back! Also, please refrain from breaking down any walls.” “Heh, I said I was sorry!” I laugh as she came over. “Well still, you ruined some dresses I had made for an important client so I spent the next two days remaking them. Anyway, what brings you by, well, other than to check up I guess. I’m a tad busy so I don’t have much time.” “Other than checking up, to tell you I'm proposing to Luna and Fluttershy.” Before I could blink I was being measured by her. “Darling why didn’t you say so sooner! We must get you three properly dressed for the special day!” “What about your other clients?” “I got three days, this is a wedding between my friend, a princess, and my friends brother, I am not letting this pass me by!” “Wait, we are not friends?” I ask faking hurt. “You broke half of my showroom and didn’t even help pay for it.” She deadpanned. “Let’s just say those weeks it was being rebuilt I downgraded you from friend to acquaintance.” “Well, sorry about that. I kinda have been none stop. Could I make it up to you?” I asked. Hey, as much as I give her slack, she is...was one of my friends. Don't judge me. “Well, for starters you can pay back the five hundred bits it took to rebuilt my walls and showroom. Secondly… can you keep Pinkie, Applejack and I for when Twilight finds a stallion for her herd? We’re gonna try and jump on board with it.” “Applejack told me about that so I'll see what I can do. And about the bits…” I pulled out some Munny. “I used most of it buying the engagement ring and necklace. Can I pay you back with this, or can it wait until I get some more bits rolling in?” “This will do, it’s all gold after all.” Rarity said as she took the munny. “So when will the wedding be?” She asked as she walked over to her fabric shelves. “Well, soon just in case another event happens. But in general I have to plan it with Luna and Fluttershy.” “When you propose how much you bet Celestia will fund it and Cadence will try and plan it?” “Suckers bet.” I said with a smile. “Most likely.” She said, grabbing some black and red fabrics. “So, do you know how many foals are being sent to your new orphanage?” “Not an exact number. I know we are getting some from Manehattan as well as a few from Ponyville it's self.” She walked back over to me with some supplies and fabrics, and started to cut sheets of the fabric. “Well as far as I know most foal in Ponyville without a proper home live at town hall til an orphanage can take them in, you could likely get an idea of what to expect by going there. So, is this orphanage going to have a school in it or are they going to go to Chearlee for education?” “The mares talked it out with Chearlee and she was more than happy to teach some more foals. As long as they were not as bad as the CMC.” “I love my sister but she was quite the troublemaker before she finally got her cutie mark. Hard to believe her and her friends all got them for the same thing.” “Those kids finally got their cutie marks? That's great for them!” “Yes, last month actually. It was a grand party to celebrate. They also made peace with Diamond Tiara and she’s now such a nice filly.” “I never thought I’d hear those words. Well, unless you need any help I should head out.” “I got your measurements so I can finish up, tell Luna and Fluttershy to come over so I can make the dresses.” “Will do! And thanks Rarity. I hope you finally find that lucky stallion with the other girls.” “Same.” With that I was heading out. That was everypony other than Rainbow, but who knows when she’ll be back. I checked the time on a street clock and it was only four in the afternoon. Huh, I expected this to take longer. I was in Ponyville’s downtown area, just walking around to see what else had changed. “Get away from me!” I heard somepony yell. Welp, that’s my que. I wrapped the bag in my magic before teleporting it to my trunk at home, then I summoned Oathkeeper and Oblivion and ran towards the yelling as breakneck speeds. “Get ready you two.” As I turned the corner I saw Vinyl being carried by… the pony and human heartless fusions Twilight told me about. “Let go you freaks!” Vinyl yelled. “Vinyl! Stay still!” I yelled as I felt my blood starting to pump. A smile made it's way onto my face as I charged at the heartless fusions. One, a pony fusion, left the group to meet me. As I closed in to struck, to my surprise, it blocked my attack… with a Keyblade. “Back off!” It yelled, somehow pushing me back some feet. I grinned. Finally, a challenge! “Not happening!” I yelled as I threw Oathkeeper into a strike raid and charged up Oblivion for a timed strike. It grabbed Oathkeeper, striking it into the ground as it appeared in front of me and spin bucked me into the ground. “We’re only after the mare pal.” I started to laugh as Wolf appeared on top of the heartless with Oathkeeper. “And we can't allow that.” He said as he brought Oblivion down into the heartless. I saw the heartless bellding. Wait, they're fused! Right. The heartless kicked wolf off, it’s eye’s glowing yellow now. “Screw you too then.” To my surprise, DTDs opened up as shadow Wolf’s and me’s crawled out and started attacking in mass hoards. “Heh, ready for this Wolf?” “You know the answer.” He growled as one of his eyes whites turned black. We both cut through the shadows with some small difficulty. “It'll take more than fakes to kill me!” I yell as I stopped attacking the shadows, tanking the bits as I charged at the one holding Vinyl. It hurt like Hell but she needed to escape first. They dodged, and I noticed one of them was holding some kinda slug looking thing in it’s hand. “Get her ready!” THe one with the keyblade yelled, him and Wolf locked in blades. I ran back to hit the slug, but the held Vinyl in my way as they forced the slug down her throat. “We’re done, let’s get!” The keyblade one said as they all exited in DTDs, leaving Vinyl on the ground. “Damn it all! A Mark of Mastery and I still am not strong enough!” I yelled as I ran over to check on Vinyl, Wolf fading into me as I crouched beside her. Vinyl’s skin was getting pale, well paler than she always was. “D...d...daddy?” She muttered. “Vinyl, it's me Eclipse! I need you to stay awake, okay?” I said before summoning Oathkeeper. “Curaga!” As she opened her eyes, they were glowing a yellowish white and she looked just behind my head. “Daddy!” She said. Confused, I looked behind me, seeing a massive man in a suit of metal with a drill arm that side swiped me across into a building. I got up fast and saw Vinyl climb on top of the thing’s back, now holding some kinda large needle. “Get him daddy!” Fuck...damn it damn it damn it! “What the fuck did you do to her!?” I growled as I felt my skin practically crawl. The thing, ‘daddy’ as Vinyl was now calling it, the lights in it’s helmet went from yellow to red as it charged at me… fast! I managed to dodge, but it crashed into the building and walked out like nothing. “Don’t let the angel get away!” Vinyl said. Wait….where have I seen this before. And those lines are familiar. Now is not the time! I charged at “daddy” “Thundaja!” I shout as I pinpoint the exact spot I wish to strike as to not hurt Vinyl. The ‘daddy’ seemed to throw Vinyl off before my attack hit as it took the impact. So it’s protecting her? I charged at it while it was paralized, landing some hits but after it started moving again it roared, charging at me and this time hitting me, bringing me right into a tree that fell over after it hit me into it. Damn that hurt! I winced as it was walking back over to Vinyl. “I'm not done yet big guy!” I shouted. I raised both Keyblades and shouted “MEGA FLARE!” as two shot out each keyblade, much to my body’s protests. They hit, and when the light fades ‘daddy’ was still standing, roared again, and charged back at me. What the hell does it take to kill this thing?!?! Wolf appeared next to me. “Your out of it. Let me take over. Don't worry, I'll try to keep collateral damage to a minimal.” “Fine. Just don't hurt Vinyl!” “I got it!” he shouted before charging at the ‘daddy'. Wolf was fast, landing hits without being hit much, but this thing hits like a tank. After some time I noticed that Vinyl was watching from a sideline, cheering for ‘daddy’ and I was limping over to her. “So when did Bioshock become a thing here?” I looked up, seeing Cript stand next to me. “Man those Big Daddy’s hit like tanks.” “No idea and you're telling me.” I wince as I continue to limp towards Vinyl. “So you know how to make her normal… ish, right?” Cript asked, walking next to me. “Other than not killing her? I...I can't remember. It’s been over 18 years.” “Man you need to remember this, there is always a third option, and if you don’t see it, make it. Here.” Cript handed me a bottle with some red liquid in it. “You’ll be able to make her normal, but I can’t take the thing out of her, admin rules are a bitch. As long as she doesn’t… well, she’s a modified ‘little’ sister so not sure what she extracts.” “Hey Cript...thanks.” “I said I can at most place items and such for convenience at most so…” He placed the bottle on the ground. “Convenient item.” WIth that, he left in a blink. I picked it up before continuing my journey to Vinyl. Man, my everything hurts right now….just a little farther. When I get close enough I downed the bottle, memory served me right, my DNA being redone was a bitch. Wolf finally killed the Big Daddy, and before Vinyl could run over to the corpse, I grabbed her, touching her forehead with my hoof as she and my arm glowed white. There was a flash of light as suddenly I felt… calmer? Wolf came over. “Dude, whatever you took out of her, hurt me.” He said. “Sorry Wolf. Was not the intention, but it saved her at least right?” I said panting. “Yeah, but I’m your dark half, what was in her was a fuck ton of light despite how she looked, so I felt it.” “I'm sorry. Here, you can have primary control next time we are in the bedroom, deal?” I said, trying to find a compromise. “Sure, Fluttershy’s darkness is the most sexy thing I have ever seen, and Nightmare Moon is coming around a bit to being like you and I with Luna, Shy’s is already is good with… herself? This morning’s breakfast proved that.” “I guess it has. Well, could you come back real fast? Vinyl’s coming to.” I said as the mare in question groaned. Wolf went back inside as Vinyl started waking up. “Ugh…. Why do I have a sudden craving for milk and joy?” She asked as she got up. “No clue, but what do you remember?” I asked as I stood up beside her. “I remember… That nasty slug going down my throat, then everything felt… like I was alone, Everything around me looked so nice and pretty, but I felt alone… till.” She looked over to the Big Daddy. “He came along… I… I was in his head… he only had me and my safety on his mind. I was all that was in his head…” Vinyl looked sad. “He had no name, or even the slightest memories of anything before that slug got shoved into me. Heh, instant dad. Wish my actual dad was as willing to protect as him, my dad left my mom before I was born.” “I..I’m sorry to hear that...heh, funny, I can relate in a strange way.” I said with a sad smile as I turned to the Big Daddy. “I do respect him, even if he nearly killed me he made sure you were safe before anything.” “So… this slug stuck in me forever?” “I...don’t know. I know I could extract it one way , but that way will kill you, though I was told that I can….hmm.” I said as I started to brainstorm, not realising my red eye glowed for a flash. “I… think I’ll keep it.” Vinyl said, snapping me out if my thoughts. “You sure?” “I know it sounds odd, but if… if what happened to me, I could some how… control it, stay partly me, I can control the daddies I connect to. Would help in the long run, right?” I sighed and smiled. “I guess it would. And I’ll be here to snap you out of it again if it doesn’t.” “Thanks… Say, where did you get red eyes?” “Long story, they are my natural eye color. I accepted myself and now I have them again.” I said, giving her the cliff notes version. “Sweet. Well, guess I better keep this.” Vinyl said, picking up the needle. “I remember seeing… you, but you had these… large white and black wings floating above your back… when I held this I… had this instinct to want to jab it into you. Freaky how a single slug can change you so much huh?” “Well, that also explains why you said ‘Get the angel’ during the fight.” I said with a laugh. “I said that? Corny.” Vinyl rolled her eyes. “Still, I guess I can help out now that I… got this thing going on with me. Odds I can also get a Keyblade?” “Well..I don’t see why not?” I summoned Oathkeeper and Oblivion and held them out to her. “Go ahead, grab one, or both if you want.” She took hold of Oblivion’s grip. “Now what? Sing kumbaya?” “Heh, not quite.” I said before I started to say the Keyblade Inheritance ceremony. After it was done, Vinyl let go. “That’s about it.” “Corny, but fits I guess. So what ne-” Vinyl was cut off when her needle started to glow, changing shape and growing to the size of Oblivion. When the light faded, the Keyblade that was there was…Interesting. “Well… it fits.” Vinyl said, waving it around. “I like it, looks deadly.” “Only if you intent it to be. A keyblade will only do as much damage as you want it to. I could hit you as hard as I can, but unless I intend to kill or maim you, you would just be winded or knocked out.” I said. “Now, two things. Now that you have this, normal heartless will target you over random ponies. Two, you now have to learn how to wield it. Either I will teach you, since you are now technically my apprentice, or Justin will.” “I think I’ll go with Justin, no offence, but I’ve seen you two fight and he’s the professional.” “Well, yeah. He's also the teacher of us on this world. Besides, I didn't want to have to pay for the entire town being replaced. Man, a day for me isn't complete without getting my ass handed to me it seems.” I said, stretching. “Just another day in the life of Ponyville it seems. Well, I’ll go find him and let him know I’m his new student, then let Tavi know I got wrapped up in your lifes problems. Later.” Vinyl said as she trotted off. “Later. And sorry about all this!” I call out to her. Damn. Well, at least I have the proposal to look forward to at least. I glanced to the clock and sighed. The fight took about thirty minutes of my life away. Now what to do… With not much else to do I headed off for a restaurant, it seemed new since I don’t remember it being here before I went to take my exam. It was darkly lit, very… atmospheric. I was placed at a seat in an even darker corner, finding it odd that other than the staff, I was the only one here. “Glad you could make it.” I looked next to me… and felt my heart stop. Core, and Josh were in my booth. “Don’t bother screaming, this… place exists half in the realm of darkness, leave without my say so, you’re stuck here.” Core said. “I don't know about screaming…” I saw a slight shine of red on the wall next to me as I growled. “But fighting is more my style.” Core sighed, quickly tapping my horn and suddenly, my body went limp. “I’m here to talk not fight idiot. We both know if I was here to kill you, you’d be dead already.” I glared at him. I couldn't move my body, but half of my wanted to end him now. I...I was confused as hell about my other half as even Wolf mentioned being confused. It...didn't want to fight. And it made me angrier. “Fine, talk. More foreshadowing and gloating?” “More like information gathering. As you know we recently implanted a special slug within the Vinyl Scratch of this world as a test to see about the modifications we made for them.” “Yeah, a little bird mentioned something about them being modified.” “Ah yes, the god Cript. How easy it would be for him to snap my neck… I know a lot about him since I obtained powers of Void. I may not be strong at all compared to him, but I still know how he became that strong. Care to join in?” “Why not.” I looked up, seeing Cript take a seat. “So, first off, Core, fuck you, Josh, screw you, and third, Eclipse, you feeling okay?” “Tired and unable to move. Other than that, just peachy.” I said, my voice having a slight echo. “Well anyway, Core. Tell me this, why do you try to summon a Psychopath?” Cript asked, his tone serious. “One foot in the door.” Core replied. “As you know, to obtain powers beyond anything we could ever imagine, we require either a grand pain, or a grand gift. We both know you received grand pain to get where you started, quickly followed by grand gifts from the man you once knew as a being above god that you know call friend.” “And now the two most Op as fuck beings I now are chatting.” I said to Josh despite my better judgement. “We all know power and energies mean creation go around, some beings being made of chosin to be placed in charge of that special power. I’m known as the human god for several reasons. Mainly because of my origins. You Core, are just lost. You fell into darkness to chase the one you lost, now you listen to whispers of power from evils older than your realm.” “Ah, age. How if can turn anything into whatever it desires, shaping both good and evil to it’s will. You see Cript, this here is the difference between you, your friend, and other gods, even beings like me. I’ve had time to know where I want to be exactly, to learn who I truly am… You have not.” “And that deals with me how? Seriously Core, if you wanted to talk to him, I could have handed you a letter. I do not see how I fit here.” I said, getting increasingly more uncomfortable in my own skin. “It’s his way of letting you know that, despite everything he’s done, you can gain unimaginable power shortly. Eclipse, I’m almost twenty years old, and I started my journey at the age of twelve.” Cript explained. “....how do you have that many wives and kids at only twenty?” I said the first thing coming to mind. “First off, my first wife keeps gathering more, for why it’s a kink of hers, and the kids is well, god children can be born in… well, there can be lots born or one born and the fact I can make clones of myself identical in every way, including power, lets them all… have me...” “I was about to say...damn.” Wolf decided he had enough and came out of me “Okay fine, we can gain power fast if we know how. Why tell us that?” He snarled at Core. “Simple.” Core said. “I am looking forward to you joining Cript’s family, the stronger you are, the sooner I can summon the Psychopath… and then become one.” “That much power will drive you mad.” Cript warned. “I’ve been in their minds, you have to be both sane, and insane at once to not just become an Insanity. That’s something as strong as a Psychopath, but far more far gone. Psychopaths at least retain their intelligence.” “You want to summon something like that? I think he is insane already, it would destroy you to idiot.” Wolf and I said together. “Yet here Cript sits.” Core said. “How old Cript? How old were you when you became a Psychopath?” “... Thirteen.” “And what did you do before you broke free?” “... the mars colony was slaughtered, that thing made me feel and watched all those deaths.” “And what was every reflection of you?” “... an Insanity or Psychopath.” “So tell me, what does that make Zeke, and the Ventral family?” “From what I found out, the Ventrals, including you Eclipse, are infected with powerful Psychopath blood, that’s what triggers your killing moods.” “Yes. Red eyed Ventrals can have many from what I’ve learned, each one more uncontrollable than the last. While Eclipse here is now a tainted subject, Zeke is still perfectly fine.” “Tainted, is that what you think?!” I said with a growl, trying to get my body to move. Oh how the thought of beating him was so appealing right now! “Yes, tainted. You now are more likely to become an Insanity with thoughts like that.” He read my fucking mind?! “So that leaves Zeke, the newest of your Reflection’s to appear, isn’t that right?” Core asked Cript, who only looked down. “Zeke is Cript's reflection? Makes sense I suppose, They do look alike and have gained a shit ton of power is a short time.” “You haven’t been listening Eclipse.” Cript said, not looking up yet. “Every other of my reflections existed to be a Psychopath, or an Insanity… Zeke having the Psychopath blood in him, if his Killing Mood activates… he will become a Psychopath.” “You obviously doubt the power of plot armor.” “That’s why I’m here Eclipse, If he takes a place in my family, I can teach him to best control that… monster. Even if our existence is nothing more than a fairytale, this is our world, our reality. To a reader, a death is something to be sad about, but to us, the deaths are permanent unless you have methods of working around them. I have, but even so, everything ends, Core wants Zeke to become a Psychopath so he can speed up the process.” “Other than using Zeke, wasn't that already his goal? Besides, don't worry to much.” I said with a smile I hoped they couldn't tell was forced “I've learned to just let things happen. As long as me or one of the other survivors still breath, Core here will need to watch his back.” I said, looking said asshole in the eye. “Maybe. But still, Cript here can speak from experience, even though he now is among the biggest fish in the ocean, there are still fish like him that will love to end this world as much as I do. After all, not every Admin is happy with you, right?” “How did you?” Cript asked. “I have my sources.” “You may not be strong, but you are a clever bastard, I’ll admit that.” Cript got up. “Just remember this, even though I can’t fight most battles for you guys, I can still deal with the Psychopaths. Watch yourself Core, you become one, you will be my next target.” “I look forward to it.” Core waved as Cript vanished. “Now, about my plans for you Eclipse.” “Why is dad here.” I interrupted. “I don't think he would normally sit still and listen to two people bicker and debate.” “Not quite pip squeak.” Josh tore off a piece of his shirt, the number 4,000 tattooed on it. “Clone.” “You still have his mind do you not? I rest my case.” “Yes and no. You see, knowing you’re a copy made to die as cannon fodder really… puts your existence into perspective. I am Josh number 4,000. I’m as skilled as the original of the memories I’m made from, but I exist to keep you and the others on your toes, or hooves in this case. We’ll keep coming and soon enough as hundreds of me fall thousands will follow all in the name of making you strong enough for Core to summon his Psychopath, and if you don’t fight, don’t kill me, well, say by by to your happiness and now orphanage mutt.” I snapped at that as I broke what ever spell was on me and stood up. “You dare touch anyone other than me who lives there, I don't care if you are a copy. I will kill you all until I go insane, just to keep killing. I don't give a shit that you are family, just leave mine out of this!” “That’s just it Eclipse.” Core said as a DTD opened behind me. “Everyone you meet is already a part of this.” He shoved me though, and I was outside the restaurant. I ran back inside, only to find it looking like an abandoned building. “Damn him!” I shouted as my blood boiled. No one threatens my family, no one! I glanced at the clock as I tried to refrain from smashing the building here and now. Wait. I double checked the clock. Crap! 8:45! I hoofed it back to the orphanage, and upon entering I saw Luna and Shy in the livingroom. “Two minutes to spare, cutting it close.” Luna said. “Sorry. First those heartless fusions showed up, then I had to fight basically a possessed Vinyl. Then Core showed up...yeah just counting my lucky stars right now.” “Come here.” Fluttershy said as I trotted over to her as she hugged me. “Busy day, you need some relaxing.” “Heh, No time to relax just yet.” I said, quickly lighting my horn and teleporting the proposal items into my jacket. “After all, we have a big day tomorrow!” I said, hugging her back. The two looked at me. “Yeah, the orphans are arriving. So, what was that teleport spell?” Luna asked. “Oh nothing, just something I almost forgot.” I said with a cheeky smile. “If it makes you feel better you are going to find out in about...thirty seconds.” “Well if it’s that important the others who came by are in the kitchen so let’s call them.” “Yes, that should take about twenty five seconds!” I said, trying to steel myself up. Oh boy this is so scary. I would rather be fighting Core blindfolded without a weapon than if the small chance they say no comes true. We went into the kitchen. Surprisingly everyone was here, even Rainbow. When did she get back? “Everypony, and Justin, Eclipse here has something he wants to say.” Luna said as everypony stopped with the cooking. Here's go nothing. I gulp as I turn to Luna and Shy...and do the pony equivalent to getting on one knee. “Luna, Fluttershy, you two mares are the most beautiful mares I have ever met, both inside and out. You two have dealt with me being constantly gone, and have even mostly understood my reasons when few would. You both have accepted me, good and bad, and I can never repay you for that.You both are my heart, and even though I don't have to do this...I want to.” I said, pulling out the two boxes in my magic and opening them. “Will you both marry me?” The room was silent, Luna and Shy staring at me with wide eyes. After a solid half minute, they took the jewelry, Luna putting her ring on and Fluttershy putting the necklace on. “We do.” The two said simultaneously. As they came up to kiss and hug me, I had a rather strange vision. It was Wolf, being hugged by Nightmare Moon and a red maned and tailed Fluttershy. Looks like those three are happy too. I am not afraid to say I teared up a bit in joy. “I love you two.” The whole room was suddenly loud with claps and cheers. “Congrats bro!” Spike called. “In your words, it’s about time.” Twilight said. I laughed as I wiped my eyes. “Well, it was.” “I’m so glad you have happiness darling.” Rarity said. “Oh, there’s a package for you Eclipse.” Fluttershy said, quickly running out and grabbing a small box. “Came not long before you got here.” “Heh, that’s Ponyville for you, everything happening in one day.” I said as I started to open it. I opened the box, inside was a gold ring with… my mother's name engraved on it. And a letter. Eclipse, Colin, whatever, this is the one act I’m doing as a father. That ring I was going to give to your mom… but those assholes shot before I entered the room. I was there and yes, I’m evil as fuck, but now that you have found love, that’s something the clones don’t understand cause Core removed that vital virtue of us. Keep this and remember, we work for him, but Core is the one pulling strings, his clones, as they put it, cannon fodder. They are not human, they are what he made them to be, loyal and uncaring. I can’t leave… maybe not yet at least. This ass hat… I know I did bad things, but… look, only your grand dad and cousin Dillen are following him to a T, the rest of us are just trying to get by under his command. I’m… not happy you killed a family member, frankly, that’s something we joke about a lot in the Ventral family. We act like we’re about to murder each other, and right at the last moment we laugh it off. That’s… likely what she was trying to do, a family way of getting to know you, but you didn’t know so don’t go hating yourself more for that. Fact is, I wasn’t even gonna kill Zeke, that was all scare tactics that failed horribly. Now… well, just remember, we’re on opposite sides, but we’re still family. God… that day at your mom's funeral… I just saw her in you and I couldn’t handle it. I was a coward, I admit that, but trust me when I say this. You have family here, when shit starts going down, we’ll be switching sides faster than you can say ‘family’. I smiled as I read the letter. A hole that I didn't realise was empty felt like it was filling. “Don't worry dad...Being the cause of the death of one family member was enough. By the time this is over...maybe we can make up some how.” I placed the letter back inside with the box and nodded to the others. “Just a gift from family.” I said as I walked over to the mantle of the fireplace and out the box there. “Until I have something better to put them in…”