//------------------------------// // I have Experiance Points? // Story: Keys of Harmony // by BioQuillFiction //------------------------------// I cracked my eyes open with the sun streaming in. I groaned softly, thankful for Cript otherwise my bones would have been turned to dust due to last night. I looked around me to see the Griffon that is Rainbow Dash, The alicorn princess of the night, and the most terrifying “meek” pegasus to exist. And I love each and every one of them. Pretty sure they’re all knocked up… Struggling I managed to crawl, literally, out of bed. I don’t even wanna know what they did when I passed out after so long. I managed to get back up and washed my face off. The cold water waking me up some. My hair, or is it still mane? Eh, it was a mess, my head to the very end of my tail was covered in dark blue, green and pink smooch lipstick marks, and… I have wet panites tied on my arm… WHEN DID THAT HAPPEN?! I start the grueling process of cleaning up… all 20 feet of me… when did my tail grow another four feet? Gods why… Anyways I got cleaned up enough to go down stairs without it being in anyone’s face that I had no sleep the previous night before heading down stairs. I started up the coffee maker and was waiting for it to pour out the caffeine filled liquid. In that time I saw Scootaloo rush in, grab something from the fridge and was about to run out before I stopped her. ”Hey Scoots, what you doing today?” I asked, wanting to start reconnecting to my kids. She skidded to a halt. I swear I heard the sound tires make when they do that. “Oh, I’m uh… gonna hang out with Applebloom and Sweetie Belle! Yeah! That! Anyway, later dad, by!” She said, zooming out leaving only a dust silhouette of herself before it fell into a pile of dirt on the ground. I chuckled, knowing either A, she has something planned for me, B, she got a boytoy (Meaning it’ll be time to show why you don’t become a threat to my little girl….) or C she is up to more trouble with the Crusaders yet again. I took a sip of my coffee as I slithered on over to the door to look outside into the morning light. Wow… Ponyville...changed. The old dirt roads where now paved with patches of open ground for grass and trees, flowers and bushes. Lights for the street lines both sides of the road. There was even a few electrical lines connecting to each of the houses. “Holy shit… when did Equestria have a industrial revolution?” I questioned out loud as I stared in awe, only breaking it to take drinks from my cup. As I slithered back inside I noticed things that definitely where not here before. A tv, not a classic box, a MASSIVE flatscreen. Energy spiral light bulbs… a wi-fi router? Huh, I’ll ask for the password later. Shrugging, I decided to turn on the tv. The news mostly talked about weather and such simple things. “At least this world has been mostly safe… mostly.” I said with a small smile as I decided to see if there were any other changes to the house. Other than electrical outlets, light bulbs and switches, nothing much seemed different. Finishing my coffee I headed outside, leaving a note on the kitchen table saying I was taking a tour of Ponyville’s changed. Strolling around I saw a lot of familiar faces, each waving and saying hi to me as I came along. I spotted a shop. “Keyblades Till Dawn” the shop had a chimney pumping smoke and smelled of hot metal, the sign a snake wielding Oblivion in it’s mouth… Wolf? I slithered in, nervous, especially since I now know Wolf’s past and… honestly I want to see my brother again. As I entered I was greeted with a store that showed me barrels of Starlights, glass displays of stronger, even rare keyblades, and the display case with the cash register on it held a mix of Keychains for Keyblades and scrolls. It looks like he’s done well for himself. I smiled, subtly summoning Oath and Oblivion so they can have a chat with the keyblades as I walked up to the register and rang the bell. Who entered was Nightmare Moon. “Hello, welcome to Keyblades Till… hehe… About time you showed up.” The former demon of the night said, walking up to the display case with the register and placing her two front hooves onto it. “So, where have you been?” “All over space, time and the multiverse, you know, the usual.” I said with my signature grin and a roll of the eyes. “How’s the kids?” “Hooffulls.” She laughed. “But worth it. Shy and I both had TRIPLETS.” She said. “Our new additions Roseluck had twins and Amethyst had a little filly. So, nine kids. Four moms and one dad, we are outnumbered but compared to you lot, we got off lucky.” “Ha, I guess so.” I laughed. “Do you know where wolf is? Haven't seen the guy since we got forcibly split up.” “He’s in the forge outback. You wanna see him? Be careful, it’s a mess in the backroom.” “Don’t worry, I won't break anything.” I said with a smile before I turned to my keyblades. “You two want to stay and chat, or coming with?” ”I think coming along will be fun.” ”Yeah, why not.” I grabbed them both and headed into the backroom. Boxes and barrels and raw ores and synthesis materials where everywhere. Carefully I moved passed them all and managed to get outside. Here the heat was massively warm, but to me it felt...rather nice. Here I saw the entire ground was stone, and in the center was a glowing forge of light and darkness. Around were crates with raw materials, and Wolf ‘stood’ tail wrapped around the forge as he worked it… however long he’s been doing this, it gave him some muscles he did not have before. Hell, that hammer… has a Keychain? No way... “You forged a fricken Keyhammer?!” I said in shock. “I knew you had talent but holy hell brother.” Wolf turned around. Upon seeing me he smiled, and grabbed me in a big -AND THERE GOES MY RIBS! “Ha! So the lost boy of Neverland finally comes home huh?” He said, my rib cage collapsing completely as he let go. I groaned in pain. “First Scoots, then my girls all night, then you? God My family is abusive.” I chuckled before wincing. “Yeah, laughing hurts.” “Heh, sorry.” He said, scratching the back of his head. “So, where have you been?” “One word. Cript. I was gone through time, space, dimensions. Hell isn’t a bad place to hang out.” I informed him. “I even got to meet Core before… before he lost unum. Even got the two together.” “Oh...Oh wow… that’s something. Heh, well while you were off playing Doctor Who, everyone here pretty much started moving on with life. After you vanished another chest appeared. I got an old series of texts, predating the Keyblade war. Recipes for forging, reinforcing, customizing Keyblades. As well as scrolls that teach you things like Strike Raid, Ars Arcanum, Mega Flare. The works. I also got this.” He showed me the Keyhammer. “It’s called Forgeres Honor. It was created to create Keyblades, but it’s series was few and lost after the Keyblade War, since it’s meant to be a tool, not a weapon.” “Sad, but at least you got it right?” I said with a small smile. “Oh and I gave the other X away to John.” “With those things I made this shop after Daybreak Fell. These methods were in small pieces, only a volume or two that was salvaged from Daybreak’s libraries before it fell. I made a living repairing and reinforcing Keyblades, and making them was something not well learned before. And I see you got Oath and Oblivion with you. Care for a tune up? On me.” “Up to them.” I said, summoning them out. ”Oh I could so use an upgrade, finally give you an edge in a fight.” ”A nice spa day sounds lovely.” “The Keys have it.” I joked before handing them off, a bit hesitant. As much as from what Oath said it is basically a spa for them, it still didn't sit right handing them off to another, trusted or not. Wolf took them carefully and placed them both into the light and dark fires. Both Oath and Oblivion sighed like resting in a hot tub. I watched Wolf work. A year or less at this and his work was careful and still. As he hammered away Oath and Oblivion seemed to enjoy the treatment. Wolf placed them both into the ‘fires’ again before slithering off, grabbing some materials and slithering back, tossing them into the fire. “If you ever need material, I still have 99 of everything.” I commented casually as to not break his concentration. “I think I’m good.” Wolf said, pulling out Oath and Oblivion, those tossed in materials making the two glow a bright, bright red as Wolf quickly began his hammering. I could feel the magic in these hits working itself into my weapons and friends. When it was over the two flashed, that red no longer on them and… they changed. Oath now had chains of light in her in between space of her blade, and her tip now held a faint glow of blue and yellow. The ‘wings’ of her handguards where larger, more pronounced. Oblivion’s chains on it’s center part of it’s blade where now purple rather than black. His entire blade now had teeth like barbs along it’s blade. His tip looked a bit more Key like but it also had a small black crown at the very top. His handguards didn’t change that much, aside form a slight purple and gold trim on the edges. “Nice makeover you two.” I complemented. I feel like a million munny... I’ve never been so relaxed in forever... “I gave them an upgrade. Now Oath also deals higher critical damage and physical damage and while Oblivion deals higher magic damage now to, your mana recharge rate will be a bit slower.” Wolf said. I shrugged. “Not worried. Oh and can you use Scan on me? Want to know how high my hp and mp are now after all that training.” “You can just look on your Assistant… you know that, right?” “....You can?” I said. “I honestly never use this thing unless it is to store items.” Wolf rolled his eyes. He then grabbed the arms, and made me watch as he navigated the Profile options and selected Abilities. “These are all the abilities and such you learned but knowing you either forgot about or didn’t know you had.” I took a look and did a double take. HOW MANY FUCKING UNSPENT ABILITY POINTS DO I HAVE?! “So yeah, go nuts.” Wolf said, slithering over to the shop. “I got a few repair orders to grab.” “Have a good day bro, I’m going to spend these, look around a bit more, then plot a way to truly break through the 4th wall and kill our Authors.” I said. Yeah that’s right, fuck you. Wait what are yo- “So yeah, go nuts.” Wolf said, slithering over to the shop. “I got a few repair orders to grab.” “Have a good day bro, I’m going to spend these and look around a bit more before visiting sun butt. Haven't seen my original teach in forever.” I said, feeling like I’m forgetting something. Looking through the list of stuff it was quite the impressive assortment of powers. Wait, what’s this? ተገኝ? The hell even is that word? I shrugged before putting a point in it… I hate my curiosity. ተገኝ (Devoure) Throw away your kinds nurture with your species special stomachs and digest all you consume and gain their power. I humed to myself before turning off the ability for now. It never hurts to have a tool, but I don’t want to forget about it and eat one of my wives or something. After reading them in some detail just in case I kept the good ones and questionable ones I left alone. With that done I opened up a DTL to Canterlot. Canterlot changed even more than Ponyville. Trolleys, cars, subway entrances. It was like a city on earth. “Holy shit.” I said as I casually slithered up to the castle, thankful that some things never change too much. The guards halted me but Shining taught me that keeping my badge helps in these matters. I flashed it and they let me pass. Hard to tell who is who with those enchanted armors. I entered the throne room and… Blueblood?! “And stocks in-” He stared at me for a time after noticing I came in. “Uhh… Eclipse?” He pondered. “The one and only, literally, I checked the multiverse.” I chuckled. “What...happened to you? Last time I saw you you where...a pony.” “Still am, just a naga. Long story but it is the same reason Twilight isn’t around that often anymore.” “I feel like asking will just grant me a migraine. Is that right?” “Blue, it’s me. That should tell you enough.” I laughed, my coat moving to show a couple of my new scars. “Well I want to talk to our glorious Sunass. Seen Celestia around?” “She’s...retired.” Blue said sadly. “Wait what?” I said, deadpanned. “Well, after you were gone and these Daybreak people came along so many heartless began appearing. In those early days a...lot of ponies… After all that, what with Cadence in the north aiding the Crystal Empire and Luna a mother, having renounces her title and status as a Princess of Equestria, she broke. I remember it very clearly. She said ‘I quite’ then proceeded to throw her crown out the nearest window, burn down her bedchambers then vanished in a flash of a teleportation spell. We still don’t know where she is and since I am still the only noble with a prince title her responsibility fell upon me… raising the sun sucks... Thankfully Daybreak supplied elixirs and such for help.” “.... I’m sorry Blue. If I didn’t leave, maybe Celestia would have stayed… But I might be able to help bring her back. She might not take to ruling again, but she’ll at least be able to lighten your load with the sun.” I said, pulling out one of my many wish tokens I have collected in my multiverse hoping. “That is, if you want me to try.” He pondered for a moment, then shook his head. “I am sure she just needs the time to sort it out herself. If you find her, you can talk with her but do not push it, she might react negatively.” I smiled “Don’t worry, If she wants to stay alone I’ll let her, but not without getting some answers.” I said, flipping the coin. ‘I wish to know where Celestia is and to go to her.’ The coin glowed, and in a flash, I found myself on… a farm. Rather newly built, everything here looked recently built. Crops were planted and sprouting. “No wonder she chose here… She gets to nurture life while being at peace.” I said before slithering around, my hands in my pockets to show a relaxed state. Taking stock on her garden, I saw lots of wheat, berry bushes, and an apple tree sapling. The house itself was rather small, but if it’s just Celestia here I don’t think it needs to be that big, even with her above average height. I walked over and gave the door a few knocks. “Hey, Sunbutt? You’re second favorite student is here!” I called out, keeping a smile on my face. What came next I did not, ever, in my life expect to hear some come Celestia’s mouth. “Go away…” She said, sounding a bit tired and annoyed. “Ouch.” I said before taking a seat. “Sigh. Celestia, I’m not here to bring you back… I just wanted to see my old teacher and sister in law again. Ever since I got back… I can’t even recognize my own home anymore… And I guess I wanted someone to confide into who wouldn't worry about my every step.” I admitted, feeling like a small colt again. I heard a sigh, the door opening and making me fall over. I saw the teacher I grew up with alongside Twilight. Her mane was in a ponytail, her tail was CUT, now it was short, bearly a foot or so long. She also was wearing her glasses I remember she normally wore when reading. “Come in…” She said, turning in and hopping on her makeshift bed of wood, hay and vines. I followed her in, thankful that she will at least hear me out. I looked around the house as I opened my mouth, choking on the words. “I’m sorry.” “Pardon?” She asked, looking at me and not the book in her hooves. “If I had been here… Cript was right. I was spending too much time trying to better myself I lost sight of the reason I did it at all… Here I am, Stronger than Wolf, stronger than most gods could claim to be, and I did nothing to even lessen the damage done to my own home. I’m sorry I wasn't there for you, to help you though all the bullshit that happened… I’m sorry I couldn't be a brother to you…” I ranted, tears starting to form in my eyes. I truly felt like a young colt again, if I didn’t before, unleashing all my pent up feelings at once. “And I’m scared. I have to get stronger or else everyone I know and love will die, even you, but everytime I try to, I miss so much of my family and friends here. I’m surprised any of my kids still see me as a dad, when I have never been there for them. I’m surprised Luna, Dash and Shy even stick around and forgive me… I’m surprised that you didn’t just force me to leave you in your peace.” She looked at me, took off her glasses, and sighed. “You never did see others point of view, did you?” She asked. “No… not until I was forced to open my eyes…” I said, slithering up to her. “Celestia… I’m sorry I wasn't here to help… Like I promised I would.” “Now then, here’s my perspective. I failed.” She said, surprising me. “Eclipse, I ruled over Equestria alongside Luna for hundreds of years in peace… then she became Nightmare Moon, a thousand alone and in peace. Because I sent her to the moon. Then these heartless came along, and you dealt with them, for a short while you and the few others from Daybreak at the time. Then more showed up. While you were not here, I… did not know what to do. At the time those from Daybreak where mostly just average citizens, refugies. Yes they all had Keyblades but no true combat experience. So many fell to those creatures Eclipse, all because I relied too heavily on you without learning to rely on myself. I ruled in peace trying to avoid conflict. Because of this the guard where way under experienced to defend themselves let alone the citizens. This event made me realize that while wishing and living in peace is all good and fine, it’s a child's wishes to never expect them to appear. I failed because I thought you and you alone could handle these threats when I… didn’t give it much thought. I was arrogant and overconfident, and thousands of creatures all across Equis suffered. “There isn’t even a Griffon or Hippogriff kingdom anymore… Only a few survivors scattered here and there. I am more at fault than you because I failed to take matters into my own hooves to protect everypony, rather than expect you to carry all that weight.” I didn’t let her say one more word. I shot over and hugged her. “We are both to blame sister.” Was all I said through my tears. “But I am supposed to be more mature, more experienced...and it feels like after all these years I still have not learned anything.” “You are still mortal, long lived or no. you make mistakes. We all do. Some we carry with us for all eternity. But with mistakes like that…. You don’t have to suffer alone. I’m sure you’re captains and generals equally felt the blame, as it was their duty to defend Equis, yet they fell flat, your orders or no. then there is Wolf, me, they Bearers of Harmony, all those warriors from daybreak who were here, they all must have felt the guilt.” I pulled away and looked at my old teacher- no, my sister in the eyes. “You are a keyblade master just as Luna, two halves to a whole. Tell me, did you tell her where you would end up? Did you inform her about coming here at all?” “Why bother? She had enough issues with the newborns and work.” “You’re her sister. You of all ponies should know what it is like to lose a sister and not know if they are alright, how their mental state is, or anything.” I said earnestly. “I don’t want you to go back to ruling… Not if you don’t want it. Blue can handle taking the responsibility dumped on him pretty well surprisingly enough. But you should talk to Luna, even if it is for a moment.” I gave her a soft smile. “I’m sure that, after initial moments of rage and betrayal, she will want nothing but to hold you close. Tell me Sister, what does your heart say?” “My heart feels conflicted. Ever since Sister and I took the crowns and began ruling, I felt so...unsure. I mean, we were children and suddenly we were the leaders of the three tribes? We didn’t get to grow up, we where foals where were forced to become Mares. I took on most of the responsibility so Luna could at least have some fun… and now Eclipse...I’m just tired of it all. I want to live my life my way, be irresponsible, get drunk, have fun, screw a stallion, mare, one of those Daybreak humans, I don’t care. Heh, it feels so good to say that.” “I bet. But I know you do care, at least somewhat. You may not care for the crown, neither does luna. But you two do care for each other… All I ask is you talk to her, maybe tell her where you live so she can visit. I will keep where you are a secret among family. Besides, I’m sure I can put you on a world where no one will give a rats ass about who you are.” I said, thinking of the world I spend time with Josh on. “As nice as that sounds Right now all I ask is to be alone for a while. Sort out the memories of… those days. I promise I’ll send a letter to Luna someday, but for now all I want is some tranquil peace to sort myself out.” I sighed. “Alright, just remember you’re not alone, alright? We are all here for you.” “I will. It’s not that I don’t want to be with you all, I’m just… I feel the need for a quiet place. Unless you have a rather quiet isolated place hidden under those scales of yours This is as close to others as I feel I can get to at the moment.” “I kinda do, but that’s neither here nor there.” I said before an idea sparked. Reaching into the magic both inside me and around me, I started to turn the mana and spell structure solid until in front of me was a glowing blue symbol representing both the sun and the moon together. “My word. Looks like you’ve been studying since you left my classroom.” Celestia cooed. I chuckled. “You could say that. I also now have my internal magic boosted but hey, no one is counting.” I magiced of some string before turning the symbol into a charm and handing it to Celestia. “If you ever want to see your nephews and Nieces, want to see Luna and I, or hell just want to hit the club and go bar hopping, this will take you there. It doesn't even need to be on Equis.” Smiling, Celestia took it, and wore it around her neck. “Thank you Eclipse. And if you ever want to visit again, please do. One pony at a time should be alright for my current mentality.” I smiled. “That is all I ask. You have a good day and my I say, lovely garden.” I said as I made my way for the door, feeling much better. “Thank you. Been so long since I was in touch with my earth pony magic.” Celestia said as I closed the door. I headed back home, the differences still felt strange, but nothing I can’t get used to. I realized I should see what Scootaloo was up to this morning. I headed over to their Clubhouse, but didn’t see her. I did see Applebloom though. She was cleaning up some leaves that flew from the windows. “Hey Applebloom, how’s it been?” I asked the young apple. “Yipe!” She shouted, throwing a… Keyblade!? I ducked, that strike raid missing my mane by an inch. “Eclipse?! Ya scared the Apple Cider outta me!” She said, her Keyblade, the Treasure Trove one from Birth by sleep, reappearing in her mouth. “Oh, you got a keyblade now? Cool! Sorry for scaring you Bloom.” “Huh, oh yeah. That Justin fellow did that ceremony thing for the class so we can learn early. Said that his home is no longer solid, but that don’t mean his heart’s not workin. Or somethin like that.” She said, trying to think about how Justin might had worded that. “Anyway, what brings you to the CMC clubhouse?” “Oh I was looking for Scoots. She seemed really eager to leave this morning and I figured she might have been hanging with you lot.” Or having some teen stallion or mare take advantage over her so I can rip his or her pathetic throat out…. It’s a good thing I can hide my bloodlust well! “...Right…” She said, a bit worried now. “Well Scoot’s ain’t here. She’s over at Diamond Tiara's.” “Really? Huh, I wouldn't have guessed. Any idea what she is up to?” “Not really. All I know is that after we made a bet she couldn’t hole the whole class inside those stomachs of hers, proved us wrong, Tiara’s been having her come over every Thursday for the whole day. Or after School, whichever. She won’t tell us why and Silver Spoon doesn't know either.” I opened my mouth before slowly closing it, a dawning look upon my face. “You know what? I’ll talk to her when she gets home. I think I know what is going on now.” I said, thinking of my own girls. “If ya say so. Honestly I just figured she wants the company since her parents...well, I’m sure ya heard about all those heartless attacks.” Great… more people I failed… I sighed sadly. “Yeah… yeah I heard bloom.” “It wasn’t pretty. Though, it was pretty strange. Silver said they took her mama, and her pa had his heart taken...but they ignored Tiara completely, and her since they were next to one another. It’s strange, I thought those monsters attacked everypony?” “Tiara must have had just enough darkness to go unnoticed… Did silver say how Diamond was reacting the whole time?” I asked, wanting as much info as possible. “Yeah. Scared out of her mind and cryin. Just like her. Well, after Tiara’s parents were… Legal guardianship fell to her butler. As for Barnyard Bargains her dad kept a trust fund of stocks and such in his will for her once she reaches the age she can take over. Til then there’s just enough bits to last her till then. Sure hope she or Scoot’s talks about it sometime. Tiara was a bully but now she’s all silent and moody.” “Yeah, she must have a lot of darkness then.” I said before smiling at Bloom. “Don’t worry, Darkness isn't evil if you don’t let it be. But I will need to talk to her sooner or later to help teach her how to make peace with her darkness.” “Well hopefully everything works out. Oh yeah, Rarity wanted ta talk with ya bout somethin.” “Rarity? Huh. I’ll go see her then. Still got time to kill. Have a good one bloom.” I said with a small wave as I started to leave. “Thanks. Ya’ll do too!” She called out as I left. I know Zeke’s Tiara had Xehanort’s Keyblades. This is weird, his DT and Scootaloo are sisters, and mine might be… dating? Multiverse. Yeish. I slithered down ponyville, hoping to god Rare’s shop is in the same place it used to be as I traveled along. As I am along Rarity’s shop, I remembered she was rebuilding it. Over all… it looked the same, save for the carousel part, which now where domes individual displays spinning, each mannequin showing off a different dress. Not bad. I slithered on into the building, the door chime going off as I did. “Hello, Rare’s, you home?” “Eclipse, is that you?” I heard her call out. “Yup, been home for nearly a full day.” I said, waiting for her to come over. Rarity came in...wobbling...holy shit she’s pregnant! “Eclipse Darling, it’s been so long. I see the vest I made you still holds well in that...rather unique form you now have.” “Yeah. Wow Rares, how’s holding a kid going for you. Hell I bet before I leave again Lulu, Shy and Dash will try and get me pregnant just so I CAN’T leave.” Oh shit did I seriously just put that out for the Authors to use? Shit. “Heh, well yes. It’s not my foal Darling. I’m a surrogate for a dear friend and client. Flur. She and Fancypants are unable to convince one naturally so I offered. The expecting parents will be here tomorrow and stay until the foal is born sometime next week.” “Hey I’m proud of you Rare’s! That's an amazing thing you’re doing for them.” I said with a smile. “Well I am the element of Generosity after all, plus this gives me the perfect excuse to cheat on my diet.” She chuckled. “So, I take it somepony told you I wanted to speak with you if they ever saw you? Correct?” “Nail on the head there Rarity. Applebloom informed me.” “Perfect. I wanted to tell you that when gem mining with Spike I discovered a very unique stone.” She said, her magic at work as said stone floated into view from the backroom. It was shaped like a Paopu fruit and glowed a faint orange/gold color. “It reminded me of that charm on your Keyblade Oathkeeper so I felt you would best have it. I’ve had some ponies look over it and none of them even know what it is made of let alone what kind of magic is within it. I have noticed it glows brighter when the foal kicks, as if reacting. But other than that I’m not sure what it is or what it is for.” “Hm, let me see it.” I said, gently grabbing it out of her magic to examine. The stone didn’t do anything, then it began flickering. “Omph. Yes, that.” Rarity said. “Everytime the foal kicks it does that.” I closed my eyes to feel the magic inside. It has got to be some sort of magic, and maybe my orian magic will recognize it. I didn’t feel anything… until I noticed I saw lights...just lights when my eyes were closed. Two in front of me… Rarity and the foal? Their… their hearts. I opened my eyes, Rarity was looking at me curiously. “Well, did you feel anything?” “Well… The stone let me see both of your hearts, yours and the babies. Let me check my assistant, see if it can tell me more.” I said, checking the wrist mounted machine more often now. Heart Stone This rare stone is connected to the hearts around it, and in the presence of an unborn infant, will glow when the unborn child is reacting. When a newborn child is born, it will glow bright, and give off a light that if collected can be used to offer to Kingdom Hearts, so a New Heart can be created. “My stars…” I said as my jaw dropped. “Rarity, you have got to read this!” I said, showing her. Rarity looked over, her expression similar. “Oh my… so, when this foal is born… this stone will give off a light that can make a new heart? My word…” “I know right? Rarity, I hate to ask, but would you mind if I am there? I want to see if this is true. Besides, I can at least help you out for all you have done for me.” I smiled. “Why I don’t mind at all Darling. And I suppose the help will be grateful. Oh but you just got back and I’d hate to keep you from your own family… If it’s not too much of a bother mind if I stay over with you? Luna and Fluttershy both already have experience and I could use the pep talk and company.” “I don’t see why not. Besides, I think it is overdue for you to cash in your favors.” I said with a small smile. “Hm, oh yes my Store and home… heh, been so long I completely forgot. Heh, thank you for reminding me. Well if you would be a dear and help me upstairs so I can collect my things and Sweetie Belle? She’s asleep early tonight. Something about her Keyblade Homework from Justin.” “Alright. Besides, if we invite applebloom it can be a Crusader slumber party. I’m sure Sweetie will like that.” I said with a smile, wondering what kind of “Homework” Sweetie was up to. Justin was never THAT rough… alright maybe a little but still. “Well I am not sure exactly but I do know it’s something important.” Rarity chimed. I helped her up the stairs and once she was in her room I headed off to where Sweetie Belle’s was. I knocked on the door a few times. “Hey Sweetie Belle, You up? You and Rarity will be staying at my place to help out Rarity with her pregnancy.” I didn’t get a response. Carefully I opened the door, and what I saw was.... Surprising. Sweetie Belle was...well, Sleeping, but...like how Sora and Riku dropped in Dream Drop Distance… What the hell is Justin teaching? Cause I don’t even know how to do that. “Visiting the sleeping worlds huh?” I chuckled before gently going over and shaking Sweetie Belle, seeing if that would disrupt it a little. “Uh, huh?” She said. Her eyes opened and she fell to the ground. “Ouch! Ow…” She winced. “Oh, Hey Eclip- YEAH!” She shouted, jumping almost out of her skin before calming down. “Right, right, Scootaloo’s the same way.” She relaxed. “Long time no see… why are you in my bedroom?” “Heh, I came to wake you from the sleeping worlds. You and Rarity will be staying at my place to help Rarity out through the final stretch of her pregnancy. I was thinking you, scoots and bloom could use this as a slumber party time with the other girls as well. The guys and I will have our own thing going.” I informed her. “Oh, that does sound like fun.” Sweetie Belle said. “I’ll start packing.” “You do that, I’ll go help out Rarity. How was the Sleeping worlds? The dream eaters fun?” “Pretty Cool. We where to learn the basics of Flomotion then create our own Dream Eater.” She said. I smiled and summoned mine to me. “You mean like this?” I asked, the look on her face that I was able to do it outside of a sleeping world priceless. “Justin might not know this, but if you can master it, Dream eaters will be your partners everywhere.” “Neat.” Sweetie said, looking over my Juggle Pup spirit. After Rarity and Sweetie Belle both finished packing I carried their luggage and helped them along to my place. Once inside I smelt the delicious smell of a hot pot of stew or soup being cooked. I was greeted by Fluttershy. “Welcome back Eclipse. Thanks for leaving a note this time…” She chimed. “Oh, Rarity? Sweetie belle, what are you two doing here?” “Hey Shy. Rarity was wanting to stay here to get some help during the final stages of pregnancy, and Sweetie Belle needed to come with. I was planning on running over to Sweet Apple Acres to pick up bloom so the crusaders can have a slumber party.” I informed my angelic wife. “Oh, well that makes sense I suppose. So, where you surprised Rarity became a surrogate mother for Flure and Fancypants? I know I sure was. Heh, Rainbow Dash especially. Thought Rarity would hate ruining her figure.” “Yes, yes while I do care for my looks and beauty darling Flur and Fancypants have been loyal customers and friends whenever I am in Canterlot. Why if it weren't for them I’d have never even gotten a shop in Canterlot in the first place.” Rarity said, she and Shy sharing a laugh as I put the luggage down. “Yeah I was surprised, but in the end it made sense. Rarity is always willing to give. Besides, this is payback for her shop I ruined all those years ago.” I said before a dawning realization. “Shit… Pinkie Pie probably knows I missed a birthday or two by Equestrian standards.” “Actually…” Rarity and Shy started. “What?” I asked, dreading the answer. “Well, during those early heartless attacks the...Cakes didn’t make it. Pinkie took over caring for the twins. These days between running the shop and looking after them she rarely has time to throw her usual parties.” Rarity explained. “We offered to take care of them but Pinkie promised the Cakes that if something were to happen to them she’d care for them.” Fluttershy said. I became quiet, closing my eyes and taking a deep breath. “So much loss…” I said to myself before opening my eyes, one having a drail of darkness, the other light. “All because no one can just find peace with both of themselves… None try to find the Grey… Hell, one of the oldest hearts alive told me the only reason it isn’t impossible is because nothing is… Grey… To do wrong things for the right reasons…” “Those early days where quite worrying.” Rarity spoke. “Yeah. So much happened...and yet a year later, here we are, life going on. Almost like it never happened.” Fluttershy said. “Well, enough sad talk. It’s bad for the foal if the mother is sad.” She said. “Come on Rarity, we got lots of Mint chip ice cream.” “You had me at Ice Cream.” She said, giving a smile as she followed Shy into the kitchen. “I’m going to go get bloom!” I called out to them, not noticing that in that time, the tails of my eyes flashed gray before disappearing, not a whole gray. I strolled my way back to Sweet Apple Acres humming in content that something hasn't changed much. I arrived at the farm and knocked on the door. Applejack answered. “Well call me a milk mare. Been a while Eclipse.” The Apple Farmer spoke. “Apple Bloom told me you stopped by her and her friends clubhouse earlier. What brings ya here?” “Oh hey Applejack, I’m here to invite her to hang out with the other crusaders in a slumber party. Sweetie is needing to stay at my place so Rares can get some help from Lulu and Shy.” I said, smiling at the country mare. “Oh right, her Foal for Flur and Fancy is due soon. Well I’ll go get Bloom then.” “Alright. Sometime we have got to talk, it’s been ages since I got to talk to my favorite Apple Farmer.” I said with a kind smile. “Well why don't ya come in. I got a barrel of Cider up here and Bloom will take some time packing her things. Silly filly always takes forever to pack.” AJ laughed, moving so I could enter. I chuckled good naturedly as I entered. “So how’s it been?” I ask, dreading any answer anypony gives me, even if I hide it with a smile…. One that I’m giving to the Element of Honesty…. Real smooth…. “Well, could be better, could be worse.” She said, closing the door. She quickly went upstairs, likely to tell Applebloom about the sleepover before coming back down. She then walked me to the kitchen, and took out two mugs which she poured cider into from a tap hammered into a barrel. She gave me a mug. “So, surprised about how much has changed around Equestria?” She asked, taking a sip. “Oh you have no clue.” I said with a shake of my head. “I mean, when I left here Ponyville still felt like a close nit small town, now while it still has it’s charm, it just feels like the only thing I can recognize is your farm.” “Heh, yeah. We haven’t changed much since Ponyville was founded, and after all it’s fancy makeovers we still haven’t. Only new things around here is an extra crater or two from Justin’s training of the new Keyblade guard Blueblood had initiated after the Heartless kept attacking.” “Yeah… heard about that all day…” I sighed. Yeah Celestia helped, but it is still fresh for me… I can’t get over it just yet. “Yeup. Those were some dark times. A few...unexpected things came out of it though…” Aj Said, this time taking a swig of cider. “What do you mean about that?” I asked, taking a swig of my own. “Well...about four months back Flam of all Ponies comes onto my property. I was about ready to haul his flank out of here...but he had this look… His brother got taken by them Heartless. He wasn’t the same con-artist I remembered. He was a broken stallion with no will to live. We put him to work and, well… I still find it hard to believe but I find myself proud to call him my special somepony. He’s changed so much, for the better, but I hate he had to lose his brother for it ta’ happen.” “Yeah… loss changes people.” I said, voice of experience more times that what is healthy. “How did Mac take it?” Aj chuckled. “He about Broke that horn off Flam’s head. Can’t blame him. Granny was happy though. Said she wants to see her great grand foals before she goes. I will admit, while I don’t like Flam’s past, it has come in handy in making new partnerships for Sweet Apple Acres to sell our products in bulk. We’ve never had to not worry about money before. Turns out, he’s a talented unicorn too. Can pick a dozen trees clean with one spell.” “Well, at least he doesn’t abuse it anymore.” I chuckled before taking another sip and sighed. “I’m not even thirty… and I feel like a old man.” “Heh, I hear that.” Aj said, taking a sip. “Ever since I took over the farms financials I’ve felt like a mare three times my age. Stress gets to ya in the worst ways.” “Yeah… For me it is war, training and preparing for it, while trying to keep protecting everything I hold dear, no matter the cost.” I sighed. “Kinda failed at that last part I guess… Couldn’t do it at my wedding, still can't do it now.” “Can’t live a life and expect not to fail sugar cube. Any failure you can walk away from is something you’ve learned from. I mean, look at Bloom and her friends. All their failed attempts at getting their cutie marks and them girls go back at it the next day, sometimes even later the same day.” I smiled. “Those girls could teach the entire of reality a thing or two… though I am afraid if they all meet their counterparts in the multiverses… It’ll be like as if every Pinkie and discord were in the same room from how much energy those fillies have.” “Yesh. Gonna need more cider to forget that thought.” AJ laughed. “So, be straight with me sugar cube. What are you expecting this second Keyblade war ta be like? Justin read from some old diary he got from Daybreak before it fell. Was written by someone who fought in it and it painted a really grim picture.” I was quiet as even the normal mirth that never leave my eyes, even when phycopath was rampaging, faded. “I won’t sugar coat this AJ… I expect entire multiverses worth of lives to be lost. This won’t be a fight for Equestria, or even a fight for our world… this war… it will be a fight for Existence. And one thing I know is all Keyblade wielders, you, Shy, Luna, Dash…. The Crusaders…. All are required to take part. Others can try and run… but I wish them luck. This is one war you won’t be able to escape, no matter how far you fly.” I said, the coldness of my voice colder than my most advanced ice spell. Aj sighed, crossed her hooves on the table and rested her head on them. “Well then, best enjoy the peace while it’s around. Can’t expect to just worry til this war happens, best make the most out of it til the day comes.” “I’m trying… but it’s so hard when all I see is how I need to get stronger, how I need to be there to fight. How I will need to kill anything that comes close to my family to keep them safe. And the worst part is I will enjoy every minute of watching the life fade form other’s eyes if it means my family and friends are unharmed.” Aj was silent for a while. “...Ya know Eclipse, my pa once told me something.” The apple mare said, raising her head back up. “When I was a filly, just learning ta buck an apple tree, I’d buck and buck till it felt like my hooves were gonna break and not a single apple would fall of that tree. Pa told me that if I tried too hard at what I’m already good at, I’ll fail at what I’m best at. I think, if you keep training to become stronger, you’ll keep failing to protect what you’ve been trying to get stronger for. You need to remember that your strength ain’t all about how fit your body is or how many fancy moves you can pull off swinging your Keyblades, it’s about what’s inside ya, and letting that become your true strength.” I closed my eyes, taking her words to heart as a line from a game I haven't played since this chaos all started now 23 years ago came to mind. ‘My friends are my power, and I’m theirs.’ “You’re right, I was so scared to lose anybody that because of my need to grow stronger, I wasn’t here to keep from losing anyone.” “Heh, well shucks if I knew my pa’s old advice would get to ya so well i’d have charged ya for it.” She chuckled. “Sorry, little bit of Flam has rubbed off on me. Still though, I’m glad you’re gonna take that to heart.” “Yeah… It’s good to talk again Applejack. You always was a rock to fall back on. Or a tree to lean on.” I smiled, some life returning to my eyes. “Heh, well I’ve been around and I’ve learned to be a reliable friend. If ya ever wanna talk some more some other time, the door’s always open and the cider will be waiting.” “Thanks AJ. Well, from the sound of running hooves, Apple Bloom is coming down. I’ll make sure she is safe.” I said, finishing my cider. “Thanks Eclipse. I best get upstairs to Flam, he went to bed early tonight since he picked most of the north orchard clean. Never knew that skinny twig of a stallion could do that, even with magic. Either way he’s got us stocked for our buyers.” “Heh, yeah. Tell him I said hello.” I said, helping Bloom with her bags. “Will do.” After walking Bloom to my place, she and Sweetie began setting up a pillow fort in the living room… hey, where’s Scootaloo? “Scoots?” I asked, looking around. “She’s not here.” Sweetie Bell said, head popping up from a pillow. “Must still be at Tiara’s place.” Bloom suggested. “I know she sometimes stays overnight, but that’s pretty rare. Only like, twice before.” “Huh, Well I’ll go over and see what’s up. If she is staying at Tiara’s we can invite her over or she can stay, but I like to know where she is.” I said before calmly starting for the door. Tiara’s place was the most hard to miss in town. It was literally the only mansion in town. It’s gates, once neat and clean now overrun by vine based plants, the grass cut but not as neat as it was known for. The once very decorative bushes now grew wild and had very little trimming work done. Even the house itself, once proud and bold now looked saddened and abandoned, if not for the few lights on one would think it was. I couldn't help but feel saddened before I slithered on up to the door and gave a few knocks. After a bit the elderly estate butler answered. “Ah, miss Scootaloo’s father. Eclipse, right?” He asked. “Yes, that is me. Sorry to barge in but I just wanted to check on Scoots. I would offer my condolences… but It wouldn’t do anything but reopen wounds.” The butler sighed. “Can’t reopen what’s still bleeding.” He said. “Diamond Tiara ever since that day has been a completely different filly. Every night she cries herself to sleep and she still has nightmares about the event. Even I still do.” “I’m sorry I couldn’t be here to help, but hopefully I can help prevent any future tragedies from happening.” I said, the fire in my chest finally starting to ignite. “I hope so… I remember that day so clearly. Those creatures stole her father's heart...but something I didn’t understand is that they took Spoiled, not like her husband, they dragged her into this… it was like a doorway made of darkness.” “Not surprised… Tell me, and speak truly, was Spoiled ever a good mare?” I asked. “That’s hard to answer. While she often came off as rude and uptight, she and Rich did care for one another and while both were busy with work they gave young Tiara attention whenever possible. True miss Spoiled has done some, what some would call, cruel things, but it’s because she grew up in poverty as a dairy farmer on her family farm in Philadelphia. When she first arrived she even spoke different. She just didn’t want Tiara to know the hardships she endured. Being from a ‘lesser family’ and married into money she had to learn and take on a whole new persona.” “So a good mare doing bad decisions… not something the heartless normally look for.” I said mumbling to myself. “Alright, if Spoiled was taken, and not have her heart stolen like with Rich, there is a high chance she is still savable. With Rich… We will need to find his nobody and heartless and either get them to meet, or slay both to bring him back… and the chances of finding the exact heartless and nobody are slim to none.” “If such a feat is possible yet slim, please don’t tell Tiara. I’d hate for her hopes to be crushed at the chance of hope that might never be.” I sighed. “I find some hope to hold on to is better than pure despair… but as her guardian I’ll respect your wishes.” I said with a respectful nod. “Thank You. Miss Scootaloo is with Tiara in her bedroom. She arrived quite early this morning and the two haven’t left since. While lately that is normal Scootaloo has never arrived this early in the day.” “Strange, she didn’t even tell me she’d be here, I found that out by her friends.” I said before shaking my head. “She is probably trying to support a friend. If it is more than that… Well I’ll try to either help or put a stop if it’s dangerous.” I said, slithering inside. The inside of the mansion felt dead. While it was more well kept than the outside, it still lacked the sense of life a house or building should have. Tiara’s room was on the third floor. I could tell they were in their cause the lights where on that I saw from the cracks in the door. I tried to open it, but it was locked… Okay, not suspicious at all... I was about to summon my keyblades but stopped. I don’t have the right to barge in to not only my daughter’s life, but someone else's home. I sighed and knocked on the door three times. “Huh?” I heard a voice say. I think it’s Scootaloo’s. Sounds like she woke up from a nap or something. “Scoots? It’s me. I was just wondering if you’ll be home tonight. Bloom and Sweetie are staying over tonight.” I responded through the door. ‘Maybe they were in the Sleeping worlds like Sweetie?’ “Dad? Eep! Dad!?” She said, the door suddenly unlocking as she opened it. “Hey… who ratted me out?” “Uh...everyone?” I admitted, being told all day about where she was. She hit her head on the door. “Apple Bloom was the first huh?” “Yeah, though can you blame me for asking? You looked so worried this morning when I asked where you were going today.” I said, not wanting to push Scoots too much. “Heh...yeah...You want some answers, right?” I smiled and shook my head. “Not if you don't want to give them. Honestly, cross my heart hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye, I only came to see if you were coming home. I didn’t care that you were here… especially from what I heard all day.” I said, hiding the pang of fading sorrow i felt. “Well...Best I tell you anyway. Come on in.” She said. I entered and noticed the bulge in her tail… somehow I just knew it… “So,” She said, closing the door. “As you can tell from the...uh, bulge I have Tiara in one of my stomachs…” “I figured. After hearing how you swallowed the entire class.” I chuckled. She blushed. “It was a bet… anyway, after that day Tiara asked me to come over. It was strange but she had just lost her parents so I didn’t think that much of it. As it turns out she fell asleep when I had her, and the rest of my class, in my stomachs for half an hour. To swallow and gag them up. And she slept without any nightmares… So I’ve been coming over, swallowing her so she can get some peaceful rest. She says it feels like she’s being hugged when she’s in there and when she falls asleep she can feel her mom and dad hugging her. So I’ve just been coming over, she sleeps and sometimes I take a nap like now or just mess around. She always has some food and stuff here for me to eat, heh, and some books, comics, and recently a tv. She told her guardian that when I’m over not to disturb us and he hasn’t at all. Actually kind of surprised about that.” “It must be out of respect for an open wound.” I said, knowing Scoots will get what I mean. “But I’m proud of you squirt. You’re doing the right thing.” I smiled as I pat her head. “If you want, we can ask if she can come over as well. It’ll be a slumber party for you, you’re friends and your sisters. The guys will be in another room doing guy stuff.” And by that I mean loaf around, joking, gaming, maybe a few naga games I can share with the kids. “Heh, sounds cool. I know Tiara won’t mind, so long as I’m her sleeping bag.” Scoot’s laughed. “I swear it gets harder for her to wanna get out, and I feel bad for having her get out. I know that technically she could live in there, Grandma Gleaming said our magic keeps all inside our special stomachs safe and nourished magically, they don’t need food, water, air, or even the need of the bathroom while in there but that’s no real life.” I sighed. “You need to talk to her about it then Scoots. I don’t think anyone else can. You are someone she trusts to keep her safe, she is more willing to listen to that than some random pony who wasn’t even there when he was most needed.” I said, ruffling her mane. “I know. I will, just uh, mind leaving the room. The yaking her up part is uh, kind of embarrassing.” I stared at her before laughing my ass off. “Heheh Alright squirt, but really it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Seriously I just got back from Grandma Gleaming’s world and it is really common there.” I said as I slithered out. I waited outside the rom for a while. It had to be a good ten minute or so before the door opened again. This time Scootaloo and Tiara where with one another, well, Tiara was hugging Scootaloo by her waist/human part turning to snake part section and the rest of her was resting on her tail. “Well, she said she’ll try and spend a bit more time outside of my stomachs but she says she’ll want more time with me…” “I’ve become too attached.” Tiara said, digging her muzzle into Scoot’s backside. I felt a bit of warmth from the cuteness of it all...and some fatherly protection coming along. “Alright then, just be careful Diamond. Scoots can take a beating, but I don’t want to hear you went back to hurting her emotionally, k?” I said, keeping all malicious out of my tone as I sent a text to Scoots through the assistant. ‘Welcome to your first relationship Scoots. Take a look at me if you ever need a bad example, being gone from all of you, doing dangerous things with no knowledge as to where I’ve gone or when if ever I’ll be back, and if it is in one piece. To abandon your kids when you gave them hope for a life with both parents, not for your new dad to up and leave at the drop of a hat. To not be there when everyone needs you because you are too focused on one goal you forget what makes it important. Scoots…. Could you ever forgive me for being a shitty dad?’ “I-I swear I’d never say anything bad about Scootaloo again.” Tiara said, blushing. I got a reply message. From: Scootaloo You’re not a bad dad, dad, you’re just busy. Considering all the junk you go through I can understand you not being around a lot, but it’s just comforting to know that even if you aren’t around you still care and love me. PS- What do you mean Relationship? Tiara and I are just friends. Huh, wonder if she’ll let Silver in on this if she ever opened up about this? I’m sure her oldest friend will support her like I have been. I smiled, keeping myself from laughing my ass off before I turned to the two girls. “Well, Let’s get you packed Diamond. Bloom and Sweetie are already back at the house. Oh and Scoots? Don't be surprised if Mama Shy or Luna talk to you after the sleepover. The only reason I don't say Dash is because she hates feeling vulnerable to anyone but me.” I chuckled at my dirty joke, hoping that if she does get it she finds it kinda funny too. “Uh...okay?” Scoot’s said. OMG she has no idea. I took heart in that as I helped Tiara pack up, telling the butler where we are off to. He was genuinely happy that Tiara had something fun to do and had no problems with it thankfully. He seems like the good sort in my eyes. At least Tiara has someone good to raise her still. It wasn’t long before we reached the house. I opened up the door and decided to have some fun. “Honeys, I’m home!” “Good, dinner’s ready!” Luna called out. As I made it to the table I saw that Sweetie and Applebloom where seated next to one another...and Silver Spoon? “S-Silver Spoon?” Tiara said, getting off Scootaloo and walking up to her friend. “What are you doing here?” “Sweetie Belle and Applebloom invited me. My parents were okay with it since I told them you’d be here.” The grey coated filly responded. “But how did you?” “When they told me they went to go get Scootaloo I know you’d be tagging along.” That made Tiara blush. Aww, how cute. “And I figured I can finally pray what you two have been up to after school. I mean we’ve hearly hung out since you’ve been inviting her over. I mean I know love struck when I see it but-” “L-love struck?!” Tiara said. “W-were just friends Silver.” Scootaloo added. “Right…” Silver said with a smile and rolling eyes. Silver and I both glanced to each other with a knowing look. ‘Those two are blind as hell’ We both said to each other without a word spoken. “Alright girls. Oh Shy, Luna, Dash, I need to talk to you three alone after the food.” I said. My stomach growling. What, in the year I was gone I only had one week where I ate like a Naga. “Oh, sure thing.” Dash said, my wives sharing a surprised look. Dinner was great. No idea where all this food came from or even how there was leftovers, but it was amazing. The girls all played games and got some ice cream. The rest of the kids joined in and it was like a kids birthday party. When it got late and all the kids fell asleep I saw Tiara was cuddled up to Scoot’s. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle where sleeping in the pillow fort, Silver sleeping on the couch and the rest of the kids wither where asleep where they dropped or where in their beds. Carefully I went to my room. The wives all left earlier to make sure the newborns were all taken care of before bedtime and where waiting for me for that talk. “So, what is it you wanted to talk about Eclipse?” Fluttershy asked. “Well, I was wanting at least some of you to talk to Scoots. It is apparent to Silver and I that Diamond has a thing for her.” I said, not beating around the bush as I nuzzled Shy. “And I dont think it’s the dad’s place to inform her about that.” “Oh that, we know about that.” Luna said. “I figured, After all, you mares always were brighter than me… well except maybe you Rainbow.” I said, sticking out my tongue in a playful manner… all footlong of it. “Hey! I’m the one who spied on her!” Rainbow said. Luna rolled her eyes. “While mad at first at Dash’s actions, we supposed it is a mother's job to snoop. So once we learned of it we figured we’d wait til Scootaloo either realized it herself or was having too much trouble. That display in the kitchen today has informed us that neither quite understands their feelings towards one another so we will leave it be for now.” I chuckled. “Honestly, I dropped a hint to scoots and it flew way over her head. She truly is both Dash’s and my daughter.” I laughed. “Should I be offended?” Dash asked. I swooped her up with my tail and kissed her. “Never. It adds to your charm and cool factor.” The next day I decided to visit my bro in the Crystal Empire. Heading there was simple enough, and once I arrived I saw it doesn’t seem to have changed too much. Aside from some more modern things here and there, it still looked like something from a thousand years ago. Honestly a breath of fresh air, much like Sweet Apple Acres. I slithered on through, waving at the ocationaly passerby as I headed for the castle. The crystal heart sat there with it’s ever positive glow. Insanity was cringing at it’s positivity but other than that voiced no complaints. Inside the castle I met up with Shining. Turns out he’s an expecting dad. Cadence is three months pregnant and while she went to the spy, Shining and I went to the Castle’s built in bar. Yeah, this castle has a bar built into it. Neat. “So, how’s it been big bro?” I asked as I ordered the drink mix for Devil’s Poison “Pretty good. Uh, you sure that’s healthy? I know you’ve had an unnatural tolerance for alcohol but even with that crazy new body you sure that’s good for you?” He asked, eyeing the delf bubbling liquid. I took a swig before smiling at Shining. “Bro, next to ale made to literally get gods drunk, this is the only drink that has ever gotten me tipsy or even drunk.” “Heh, well if you say so.” He said, taking a sip of his beer. “So, what warrants the visit?” “Just a visit. I wanted to talk to you, especially after what I heard happened while I was gone.” “Oh yeah...that…” He said, taking a gulp of beer. “Well, I’m sure everything you’ve heard was right. Though the Crystal Empire wasn’t touched. Daybreak people who moved here said the heart on this world is a weaker, lesser version of their old one made from similar magic crystal but it only takes in magic and generates the barrier. Apparently the one they had did a whole lot more fancy stuff.” “Yeah they did. I have been to Daybreak a few times before it’s apparent fall… it was a wonder, and just improving. It would have been amazing once it had finished.” I said reminiscing with a smile on my face, taking another drink. “Heh, now I’m sad I never got to see it. Folks from there talk about it like it was the promised land or something. Sad to hear it fell, had a lot of old knowledge to Keyblades that was lost before. Now, most of it’s back to being lost again.” “Not if I can help it.” I said, taking another drink as that spark from yesterday ignited into a ember. “I have a plan. I will do something no being has done since the dawn of the true creation, and help my family retake their empire, but come the war, I will not let anyone I care about suffer. I will protect them.” I said, Shining and I sharing a look. “Heh, well you always have done some impossible stuff. Just remember what dad always said. A plan is always good, but a little dumb luck doesn’t hurt either. Heh, mom hit him over the head everytime he said it, she and Twilly where the big plain makers in the family.” “Then there was you, the hot head, and me straight down the middle.” I said with a laugh. “I believe it was you who after basic training showed up your whole squad by beating the guards training corps speed record for the obstacle course after your second day there, THEN in hoof to hoof fighting put your commanding officer into a full body cast?” “Hey! Not my fault they never expected me to use my magic to enhance my physical attributes. They allowed magic but the others were thinking too narrow mindedly.” I defended myself. “Yeah, sure. It has nothing to do with the fact spells like that where only deemed theoretical until you did them?” “I… er… shut up.” I said, hiding my face behind my glass as I took another drink. “You and Gleaming are so much alike… Wait, if she is you, does that make my brother my mother?” “...We need some more booze.” “Agreed.” It got late and Shining headed home. I was here for another day so I checked into a hotel. My room was small but able to be comfy. Once settled I started thinking about stuff. Life has changed so much here, it’s just...unreal. I sighed and looked out the window to the night sky. Every star another world. Every world having thousands of different versions. And all were in danger… Damn, and here I thought accepting God’s offer all those years ago would be a fun fresh start. Now so much is at stake and only we few handfuls are what stand in the way. We Myan Keyblades. I chuckled at the dumb title I just gave us before laying down, closing my eyes, And taking a Dive. I woke up feeling pretty good and why is there a Shed in here? There was a brown shed, heavy wood door, window, red light bulb on the side and a window with closed blinds. I walked up to it and opened the door to look inside. Curiosity, damn you! But what would you do in this situation? And...it’s huge… it’s bigger on the insi...This is a Tardis...isn’t it… Welp, always wanted to see what these where like! I hummed happily as I slithered inside without a care in the world. Honestly, as long as I’m home before the end of the day. I’m not leaving my family for long times like that again unless it is for their safety. Once inside I saw this placed looked amazing. I felt like a kid in a candy store. I came across a hallway, here there was lots and lots of doors. I almost reached for one before I had my tail whip my hand. “No, bad curiosity! Explore rooms later, find out who is here first.” Bang, Clank. “Son of a-” BOOM! Was that Cript… and the hell just blew up? Why am I not surprised, this must be his… where and how the hell did he get a Tardis? I followed the sounds of cursing and destruction as if I was walking to the corner store, if nothing else to see what my adopted father got himself into. I came across the open door and inside was what looked like a laboratory with all kinds of things happening. Near the door was Cript, dusting himself off from whatever he was doing at that table seems to have exploded. “Things have a habit of blowing up in your face, don’t they?” I said, being the sarcastic asshole I am. “Ja-Fuck!” Cript yelped, suddenly shooting NINE bullets at me, two of which hit. Thank you scales… “Eclipse… The hell are you doing here?!” “Well when a tardis appears in the room of the most curious person in this world-” “Don’t say-” I was suddenly zapped with enough lightning to make a Thundaga feel like static… “That… This place has a mind of it’s own and it hates being called...that.” “Note taken. Sorry about that.” I said to the… whatever it is as a puff of smoke came out of my mouth, my scales scorched. Thank you abilities I perked into or I would be ash. “But yeah, what did you expect me to do when a door appears in my room?” “Ugh… This thing loves to hop around when I’m working. And sorry for being jumpy. Last sudden appearance of another person here they tried to kill my newborns.” He said, finishing dusting the ash off him. “Don’t worry, wherever or whenever we are I’ll send ya back a minute after you left.” “Wait, I actually do need to ask you something… I was in the negative realm of Darkness recently.” I started. “I talked to Kingdom Key of Darkness while I was there about a plan I have… He said the only way he sees me able to pull it off is to meet the oldest admin.” “Alive oldest Admin you mean? I knew a few others but they all died. Save for Lord. Is Darkness still on that whole ‘I wanna be whole’ spit again? Ugh, brat has no patience.” “That's the thing… I think I’m close.” I said opening my heart. White and black trailed off my eyes before turning gray, just for a second and going back to normal. “I’m missing something, and Darkness actually gave up hope a bit until he saw my determination to do this. To remake the Grey.” “He just lost patience.” Cript said, jumping into a wheeled high chair and heading back to a desk, some computer Equipment appearing as he began assembling it. “Darkness and Light both were once the heart of an Admin. After the Admin war he created, well this reality, by dividing the roles of good and evil. Light and Darkness. While neither is truly good or bad, it’s their roles. Only way the True heart can be returned is with the Crown of Hearts. Workarounds are possible but, huh, well I guess you could do that but it won’t be as strong, still pretty strong though.” He said, connecting some wiring. The ember became a flame. “I will bring back the Grey.” I said, not in defiance, but as fact. “The authors can’t stop me on that, no matter how hard they may try. All these problems, Inhumans, Humanity, Dark, Light, Nothing, Void, all of it is because they are opposites. It is time to create something where we can show that nothing is black and white. Show them that true harmony is possible, and balance is not truly needed.” “To each their own.” Cript said, making me a bit confused. “I’ve been to many other Admins realms where Harmony exists, but every garden has it’s weeds.” “But that's the point of grey.” I said. “Grey isn't good nor evil. It is the willingness to do right, even if the method is seen as wrong. The willingness to slay a army, all of whom have lives and families, if it means you can protect your own.” “And this power is universal then?” Cript asked, screwing something into place. “Power obtained for powers sake through sheer willpower is a dangerous thing. While true, some will use it for the right reasons, how many can twist it’s, or rather, your intended use for it? The same power you seek can be used to easily slay many more than Core did in his time as a Demon. Harmony doesn't always mean coexistence.” “I never said it would be easy. But, if there is one, singular truth about reality before, during, and after it’s creation, is that the only thing impossible is the idea of impossibility. No garden is perfect, you are right on that, But even an imperfect garden can be beautiful.” “Imperfections are what make life interesting.” Cript said, screwing in some more parts. “Exactly.” I said with a smile. “Take Life and Death for example. What’s so precious about life if everyone could become immortal or live for as long as they want with enough power? The Admins had that problem. They became secluded, isolated, egotistical, and a bit bigot. The Admin war showed them that they can die. Rather than taking that knowledge in strive afterwards, they scattered, the survivors living for as long as they felt, till now only Lord is left from that bunch. Death shows us everything we do is what defines us and gives us meaning. Immortals live forever without meaning, and even if they have them at first, they often lose sight of it over the long eterities.” “I’m aware. Hell I’ve always seen Immortality more as a Curse than a gift. Who wants to live forever and see all you know disappeared and replaced with something else time after time? Who wants to know that anyone you care for will die before it feels like you got to know them? Who wants to not have the thrill of defying death?” “Welcome to my hell.” Cript said simply, wiring another part of the device. “Exactly. With Recreating the Grey, I don’t want immortality. Besides, I have plenty of flaws that will probably transfer over to grey when it is made. Hell I don’t even want to be all powerful, but I do want to be able to know my family is safe. I will gladly do wrong, to protect my meaning to keep going.” I said. “I know there will be a few bad apples, but honestly if there wasn't, it wouldn’t be a true being with it’s own thoughts, would it?” “Heh, now you’re getting it.” Cript said, installing a new part to the device. “Sadly not all of us will know Death’s Beauty. Reworking all of Creation will be a hassle, but I got the idea. You wanna talk to Lord then?” “As long as I’m home in time for dinner.” I said with a shrug. “Then you best turn around.” I did just that and….. Mothers of me… He was easy three feet taller than me, armored head to toe, and looked old, but not in any phrase of the word weak… meep… “Eh hehe… yo?” I said, actually intimidated for once in my life. “Hello.” He said, waking a seat on the floor, still a foot taller than me sitting down. “I understand you seek Grey?” “Yeah.” I said taking a breath to calm down and focus. “Dark and light are just two halves to a whole. I want to create something that proves to all, even Dark and Light, that Harmony is possible. It will be hard, it always it, but there is always a chance for it. The power to protect those I hold dear is just a added bonus.” Lord was silent for a time, making me worried. “You, are an idiot.” “Why thank you.” I said with a coy smile. “If I wasn’t I’d have nothing to learn.” “That is not why. You truly believe that Harmony is a possibility?” “Sigh. Look, I know nothing is ever perfect. Even if I create the grey again, those who wish to use it for corrupt purposes will do so. I’m not Naive. However, I know Harmony is already possible. I am in harmony with my Insanity. I am In harmony with both my light and dark. I am in harmony with Oathkeeper and Oblivion. I am in harmony with myself. I know my flaws. But I don’t sit around an wallow in them, I use them.” I opened my heart again, The gray lasting ten seconds this time before fading back to light and dark. “And I know I am close.” “This.” He said, pressing a finger over my heart...there goes my rib cage… “Is Origin.” Lord said. “You can call it Harmony, but, in this form of colorless grey, I know it as Origin. After the war, Origin was a dying art. Before everything became so divided and Varied, Origin was a mix of Everything. Cript uses is. But only for his magic.” “Cause fuck...All the crap I can do…” Cript groaned. Ignoring the sering pain in my ribcage, I look up to lord in his eyes. “So what does that mean for me?” “Origin, or as you prefer to call it, Harmony.” Lord started. “Is like Humanity, or magic, or even a simple gun. Anyone can learn to use it, master it, but like Humanity, magic, mastering it takes time. Now then, you must understand this. The Grey you are experiencing is your own, not the grey of the realm you know as home. That, can only be reclaimed by it’s makers Crown.” “And how would I do that?” I asked. The flame turns into an inferno. “That, is not your fate.” Lord said. At that I started to laugh. “Fuck fate. We make our own Destiny. Even Lance agrees with me on that one. The only thing set in stone for our life is our birth and eventual death, for everything has a end. Fate is an idea that sets impossibilities in front of you, but I say fuck that noise.” “Then let me put it another way.” He said, taking my right hand as Better Half, my X-blade appeared. “You have the wrong key.” “Then I’ll find it.” I said. “Look, Even the Authors themselves can control half the shit I do. I don’t care if I need to face you Lord. Yeah I may die, But if it means I can keep my promise, and provide a way to keep my children safe? So be it.” “Then are you willing to kill?” Lord asked. “Yes.” I said without hesitation. I saw Lord give Cript a look, the two exchanging eye glances for a time before Cript returned to his work. “There can only be, one of the key in any reflection of your realm. Would you still be willing to kill it’s wielder?” “If I can't convince them to work with me, and if they are not my loved ones, yes. No power is worth it if the reason to gain it is lost in the first place.” “Then this is your target.” Lord said, opening his hand as… an image of Zeke appeared. “The X-blade is the key to true grey, and it can only have one wielder across any reflection in this realm. Like Cript, Zeke was created to obtain this crown, for Nexus. But also like Cript, he rejected his destiny, and refuses the crown and it’s potential, it’s power. While you believe in power to protect, Zeke believes too much power is the true danger. He’s won many fights, always holding back, never showing what he can do. He will not work with you, are you still sure you will kill him?” I chuckled. “If I did, X would never work with me. There are others with balanced hearts X will go to. Besides, Just because Zeke has a different point of view does not make him wrong. We have seen time and time again all powerful foes seek more power to destroy everything he loves, I don’t blame him. Besides that, he is family.” I then glared directly into Lords eyes without fear. “If there is a single good thing about the Ventrals, is we stick by family. If X is the only way, then I’ll make my own way. I have another year or two before the war. That may not be any time in the grand scope of eternity, but just a year ago I was getting my ass handed to me by every single enemy I faught. Now I am able to hold my own.” “Then make your own Grey.” Cript said, turning around I saw his machine was about complete. “Eclipse, what can you tell me about reflections?” “Each are infidant yet limited. Each has its own version of events, its own variables, its own rules. Some changes are small, like a single person never being born, others are huge where the very idea of a world is changed. But there is always a change. Take me for instance. You said I was the only me you have ever seen in all the reflections, making me the change in my own.” “Good. Now then did you know they have rules? Each varying and sometimes random, but there is one constant.” “And that is?’ I asked Cript laughed. “There is a god.” He laughed again. “Whenever a new reflections is created, the first intelligent lifeform born into it is born the ‘god’. But if intelligent life is dropped into it, they are named god rather than first born intelligent life.” “So basically the first being or beings in a reflection are automatically god?” “Yup. Total control over all reality in that whole reflection. Outside it they can do some other stuff but not as effective.” “So what does Gods have to do with me trying to remake gray?” I asked, seriously lost on this. I don’t think Cript would want me to become a god. “Well, with a whole reflection at your will, anything rare can be common. Gold can grow like apples from trees. Food can be as plentiful as grass in plains, Grey can be the dominant power, despite being a lost art for untold years.” Oh my god he does want me to become a god. “Cript, I just said I don’t want absolute power not long ago. Yeah I want power to protect, but what is the point if there is no challenge to anything? It’ll be One Punch Man all over again.” “Eclipse, God’s even in their own seats of power are not unkillable. Do you know how many Admins I killed in their own Creations? How many gods I killed in their own dimensions where power for them was as plentiful as salt in the ocean? There will always be a challenge, trust me on that, but right now you are the only source of Grey who wants that stuff back at full force.” Those last words nailed it into me. “So, I can basically make a backdoor into the true grey slowly by making and entire reflection that uses Gray as a primary power to Light and Dark? “It can be the only power if you willed it? But in creating a realm of only power and energy, it can leak into others and other things. And when the Rebirth of Creation happens after your Keyblade War 2, the energy will get scattered, latching onto objects, people, whatever.” “And if everyone has it, then it is no longer lost. The realm will be forced to reawaken.” I guessed. “Become a part of the new creation.” “Not Exactly.” Lord spoke up. “This grey will have been born from you. The grey of your realm, of Kingdom Hearts, was born from the Admin I knew and fought alongside with. The differences are in what and who birthed it. The original grey will still be sleeping, but you will be creating a whole new grey.” I nodded. “I’ll go through with it. I won't kill Zeke and all those with a balanced hearts just to awaken a power that I can make myself. I may be willing to kill, but I have morals.” “And that, makes you a hero.” Cript said. I turned around, seeing his machine was done. “Now then Eclipse, this is only gonna hurt… like having a front seat to the big bang...cause you will.” He said, flipping a small switch as the machine whizzed to life, a bean wrapping me around in some energy. The beam got brighter, and brighter… and in a flash… I was just...floating in total darkness. Not, darkness darkness...emptiness… It was strange, yet not at the same time. It wasn’t right or wrong, it just was. I then saw a flash in the distance, and then light...and heat… SO MUCH HEAT!!!!!!! I felt every cell in my body melting and...reforming… OH SHIT THIS HURTS!!!! Insanity screamed with me as the blast forced us into one being, our collective scream in pain being the only noise I hear besides the explosion. Flashes of Luna, Shy, Dash, Scoots, Pura, all of my family. Zeke, Ben, John, the Foretellers, all my brothers and sisters in arms. All flashed inside my mind. And the inferno matched the explosion before me. I grit my teeth, even as they were evaporated and reformed. I opened my eyes, pure trails of colorless gray smoking from the edges and changing my iris color temporarily to a silver gray as I bared the onslot. My veins glowed with Origin as I forced myself to handle the never ending pain. There is a end in sight, and I know what I suffer for. For them, my family. Those that which make power worth it. My Keys of Harmony.