//------------------------------// // A New Civilization // Story: What Happens in Terraria // by BioChemicalWolfGear //------------------------------// I got up from the couch and Rainbow watched me with interest. I headed toward the front door before she cut me off with her words. “Where’re you going?” I pushed open the door, and looked back at her. “Twilight’s. She needs to send a letter to Celestia so all of Equestria knows what I am. Hopefully it goes even better than last time.” “Oh ok but don’t hit on Twilight! She’s offended easily.” “I’ll remember that.” I walked out the door and was greeted by the midday sun’s glare. I was about to put my helmet back on, until I realized I would make a better impression if they could see my face. I looked across the horizon at the quiet town of Ponyville. I quickly reflected on the possibilities that could accompany this town. I wonder what it would be like to own land in Equestria? Like have my own utopian civilization that all Equestria will flock to… that would be fun. Hey I can play this world like I play Civilizations V! DESTROY EVERYTHING MWAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHA; or be diplomatic…Yea I don’t exactly want to kill Celestia… imprison maybe, but nah. I like her too much. I looked back over the town after shaking my thoughts. I took to the sky and began flying over Ponyville. Five minutes later, I got to the town square where many of the ponies watched me as I flew over. Better make sure as many ponies see me as I can. Know what scratch that I should meet Twilight first rather than the whole town. I directed myself towards the largest tree in Ponyville. After a while of being here, you sort of figure out where everything is. To find Twilight’s place, all you need to do is find the big tree in the center of town. Even though Ponyville has more trees in the town itself there are not trees that are actually big enough to be a house, other than the library. Finding said library was easy, once I went high enough. I personally wasn’t entirely familiar with the whole layout of Ponyville yet, but it’s not hard to find something when you’ve got wings and all the time in the world, right? I slowly descended as the tree itself got larger and larger as I approached it. It took me a minute of heavy wing-beats to get to the tree library that the resident Canterlot unicorn stayed. As I landed in front of the library door, I pushed it open with one hand. Surprisingly, it flung open as a single door rather than the double door I’m so used to seeing. Maybe magic was involved but I was too busy to care. No, the most important aspect of this scene was how familiar it was. “I assure you Applejack, whatever Rainbow got you to believe, it’s probably just some prank.” said Twilight, trying to reason logically. “Ah know what ah saw!” retorted Applejack. “Ahem.” They both looked at me. “Well, this just reminds me of when we all first met.” I said, strolling into the establishment and sitting on the couch in front of them. “Applejack came in worried about some tall, bipedal creature that was seen strolling around town. Oh wait, no you came in because Apple Bloom saw me and you wanted her to check it out, or at least I think you did. Anyway long story short, you two are doing the exact same thing you did before, when I first showed up.” Twilight’s jaw had not managed to lift itself off the ground. It fell the moment she saw me. “Uh Twi? Believe me now?” she questioned, giving Twilight a sideways glance. “…Uh huh.” she squeaked. I watched Twilight’s dumbfounded look for a moment. “Applejack, will you be so kind as to lift Twilight’s jaw off the ground?” She responded with a low chuckle, and began the tedious process of putting Twilight’s jaw back where it belonged. Once it was back Twilight began to regain her control over her vocal cords. “H-wha-wh-what are you?” Twilight stammered to ask. “Can’t you see I’m a pony?” I teased. Applejack gave me a glare. “Ok, sorry, I’m a Terrarian. My name is Puppet Master.” “P-P-P-Puppet Master?” she stuttered. “Yes, dear Twilight?” “H-how do you know my name?” she asked, still in shock, but managing to regain her logic. “Like Rainbow told you. I knew you before now. We saved Equestria together, until…well never mind. Let’s just say Equestria was all right while I went and died in a corrupt world ruled by a warlord.” “Wait, what?” she asked, fully coming to terms with my existence. “Oh good! You’re awake!” I stated, referencing Twilight’s state of mind. “Umm, I don’t understand?” she questioned, confused. “Hey uh Puppet?” Applejack asked. “Yes AJ?” I responded. “Did yah find Rainbow?” she questioned with a suspicious glance. “Yes, why?” “Cuz, ah find it awful suspicious that yah showed up no less than a minute after I did.” “What’s that mean?” I retorted not liking her tone. “You were followin’ me!” “No.” I said bluntly. “Ah think yah were.” “You can ask Rainbow to see where I’ve been, if you really want. But right now I think contacting Celestia would be in my best interest. Twilight, do you know where Spike is?” “He’s upstairs. SPIKE!” “Yeah?” came a muffled voice. “COME DOWN HERE I NEED TO SEND A LETTER!” “Sure be right there!” came the muffled voice again. “Ah got my eye on you.” stated Applejack with some hostility, just before she stomped out the door. I watched her go until the door slammed. I looked back at a perplexed Twilight and an awed baby dragon. “What was that about?” asked Twilight. “Well we may have gotten off to a bad start this morning. It was goin’ good, until I said something that offended her. It wasn’t too bad, and I did apologize for the words. It should blow over eventually. If I know Applejack she won’t let it get the best of her.” “That’s the thing… How do you know all of us?” “How don’t you know me? We quite literally saved Ponyville from a corrupt invasion. Hopefully I was able to get Dark Wolf on our side before the shockwave hit. Know what, that is what happened. I destroyed a portal that allowed me passage to Equestria to keep the Corruption from spreading to the Everfree. That’s what did it.” “You’re going to need to be more specific, when you say Corruption.” she said with a hoof on her chin in thought. Spike had yet to come out of his stupor. “Spike!” I shouted and made the dragon jump. “Can I see that parchment and quill?” “S-sure.” he took a few tentative steps forward, causing a pitter patter on the ground when he picked up the pace. He handed me the scroll and quill. “Thank you.” I began scribbling down a message for the Princess, and once finished, I handed it to Spike. “Here’s a list of my demands.” “Y-your what?” he asked worriedly. “Just kidding tiger.” I stated, roughly rubbing his head. “Oh, ok.” he sighed with relief, and he blew green flames on the parchment and it burnt up and away. “Thank you. Now I must head back to my temporary home. Any questions have to wait.” “Aww.” said Twilight, putting away the quill and scroll she already levitated over to her. “Ok, well, stop by again. I still want to know more about his Corruption stuff.” “You will learn the horrors that accompany the Corruption, I assure you.” “H-horrors?” she stammered. I got up and walked over to the door. Before I could reach it, it was magically locked by a purple aura. “Twilight. Why won’t you let me leave.” I said turning around to look at her determined, yet accusatory gaze. “What is the Corruption?” she commanded. “A force that spreads across the land and enslaves creatures by touching them. It’s a kind of grass and once it’s planted it mutates life around it to be similar or the same as itself. A friend of mine found a way to contain and control it. He was corrupted somehow, and he posed a threat to Equestria. I’ll go into detail tomorrow ok?” “All right, that’s somewhat what I wanted.” Twilight stated, still not quite happy with the answer she got. The aura around her horn disappeared and I turned to see the same happened to the door. “Oh, Twilight?” I questioned, getting her attention as I opened the door. “Hmm?” “Never block my path again, or I’ll burn down your door.” “I don’t believe you can conjure fire.” she said in a know-it-all tone. I cast a ball of fire in my hand. It was a green cursed flame. The power came from my Cursed Flame tome, that I always carried with me. She looked at it in surprise, and I gave her a reassuring smile before I left the library. Once I was outside, I flew high in the air and looked over Ponyville, giving it a good look over. Then I looked in the direction of Rainbow’s place and paused at the sight. Not the house itself, but what was beyond the house. In the distance I saw a massive black tower, much like the one in Terraria, where I faced wolf. “Well I guess I’m not alone then.” I already knew he was on my side. He swore allegiance to me when I purified him. Hopefully he didn’t forget that, and isn’t trying to create another army of corrupted. I flew in the direction of the Tower, curious as to what I may find. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Celestia sat on her chariot, pondering the events that might possibly transpire during the next three hours. There is a possibility that the monstrous creatures will attack her on sight, or leave her be. She also wondered how she would introduce herself. Being friendly seemed the best course of action, considering he showed restraint to Barricade's jabs and he also was willing to resolve the issue peacefully. Just then she heard the familiar sound of a scroll popping into existence in front of her. Before the wind took it and brought it into her face she grabbed it with her magic and opened it. Dear Celestia, My name is Puppet Master, I am a Terrarian, I have made my residence at the home of Miss Rainbow Dash, where she allowed me to stay. When you get this please see me as soon as possible. I’m sorry if you find my summons offensive, or inappropriate to your title, but I am not a pony and I can assure you, I’m no subject of yours. With love and respect, Puppet Master, High King of Terraria “After this matter, I’ll deal with whoever this is.” Celestia said to herself. She brought her attention back to her escort, and the tower in the distance. The escort itself consisted of pegasi for the purpose of faster traveling. “We’re almost there, Princess.” stated the lead in front of the group. “Thank you, Captain.” They got into a position above the tower, and hovered above it. Celestia hopped off, and began her descent into the skylight. She landed on a platform at the top of the stairwell that spiraled down to the depths of the black ominous tower. She stared at the large double doors that were twice her size, and quickly reflected on how big the bipedal creature must be. With her magic, she pushed open the doors and entered with a six guard escort. “What brings you here?” Said a very serious voice that seemed to be uninterested. She quickly located its source, and found the bipedal creature Barricade mentioned, and noted his terrifying look. It’s outfit was probably why Barricade was so quick to threaten, not only was he scary but he was also nonchalant about her appearance, as if it didn’t interest him. Over all he had a very threatening aura. Celestia knew to dismiss this, as his character as he showed a great deal of restraint toward Barricade. “Hello, my name is Princess Celestia. I am one of the Rulers of the lands you’ve settled in. First I would like to welcome you to our world.” “Thank you. You’re the first to show me kindness in this world.” He said nonchalantly, but his words seemed genuine. “Are my ponies not kind to you?" she asked tenderly. “You mean the ones you sent to rough me up? Then yes, they are quite a cruel and unwanted race. I would gladly see you all destroyed, if it weren’t for my service to my master.” His words unnerved Celestia. He looked and acted like a monster, but his loyalty to another being keeps him at bay. Hopefully this other being is more kind than him. “I’m sorry you feel that way.” Celestia felt the uneasiness of her guards surrounding her as she asked, “May I ask what manner of creatures are patrolling your castle?” “This is not my castle. But to answer your question, the creatures that are patrolling are corrupted life forms that owe their allegiance to me. And I owe mine to my master. So long as I have no freedom to use them as I please, then I will use them to serve my lord.” Lord Lord Lord Lord, who is this Lord? “May I ask who your lord is?” “Will you help me find him if I tell you?” “If I know where he is, I’ll send him a message to come to you.” “His name is Puppet Master.” Wait that sounds familiar…oh…he’s in Ponyville with my student. He must be nice though since he seemed a little respectful in his letter. He didn’t address me as princess though, so maybe he didn’t know my title or he forgot to mention it. But I know where he is. “I happen to know where Puppet Master is.” Celestia stated rather confidently. “How can you be so sure?” She took out the letter and floated it in front of Dark Wolf. He took it in his free left hand, while his other was still holding up his head. He magically opened up the scroll and held it open in front of his face with an unseen force while his right hand came to rest on his left knee. “Ah this is sufficient proof. This is obviously his handwriting and a personal summon for some conversation. It appears Puppet Master already trusts you, desires to respect you, and for you to respect him in return. Hmm. All right, if my lord wishes to trust you, then I will hear you out and do what is in my ability to assist you. Might I ask why you are here?” “I would like you to move or change the design of the castle.” “I can change the design of the castle, but I cannot remove it or move it. But the design change of this castle goes to the authority of my lord. If you want to see it any different then you’ll have to speak to him. Anything else?” “What’s your name?” “Currently Dark Wolf. However, Puppet Master is known for renaming his creations, so that may change. Lord only knows he’s renamed every other creation, other than Shadow Master.” “Shadow Master?” asked Celestia, with a small tilt of her head that was almost imperceptible. “He’s an assassin and ultimate spy. He can turn invisible to sneak by defenses to steal vital information. He’s also an excellent pawn, if I may add. I used to use his services before I was… tamed… by his lordship.” Celestia had another internal shudder. These creatures seemed to be more and more violent the more she got to know them. “If you don’t mind me asking, what did you do that required his services?” “Before Puppet Master freed me from the corrupt state I was in… I tried to take over the world. I was always his thane, but I was also under the influence of an evil force that day. I would never try to seize a world on my own, unless corrupted or at least had enough forces to do so. In the end Puppet Master himself fought his way into my castle, past the billions of floating Soul Eaters to purify me.” “Soul Eaters?” inquired Celestia. “The floating brown creatures with many eyes you’ve no doubt seen on your way in here.” “Oh…he took on billions? They look so, so…” “Bred to kill? Basically that’s what the corruption does to you. I used to control the Corruption before it corrupted me. Now that control is firmly back in my hands where it belongs. Not only that, but the Corruption itself is contained in a hidden room within this castle. I will never let it go unless Puppet Master asks me to.” “I hope it never escapes then.” Celestia paused for a moment. “What do you mean contained? And why are you talking about Corruption as if it is physical object?” “Because it is. The Corruption I’m thinking of is a type of mutated life form that once turned it can create other life forms to spread itself farther across the globe. Once it grabs hold of a creature, that creature has no more free will. And all of that creature's power then becomes part of the Corruption's power.” “That’s… a terrifying thought, to be honest.” “It should be.” came a voice from behind Celestia and her guards. Her escort spun around and pointed their spears at the open doors. “Hello there.” simply stated a white suit of armor that was pulsating with energy. It also was in the same shape of Dark Wolf, and seemed to have Pegasus wings rather than bat wings like the darker counterpart. “Who are-? Oh are you Puppet Master?” implied Celestia, towards the unknown entity. “Why, yes I am. I see you found my creation. Now if you excuse me.” he walked forward, and Celestia stepped aside. Her guards however didn’t. “Not a step closer to the princess!” shouted the leader of the escort. He ignored them. “Stop!” he walked right into their spears and they were simply pushed aside from the strength of the armor alone. The guards then stood in awe, as he moved unhindered by their spears and right past them and toward the throne. Dark Wolf stepped down, and bowed low and on his knees a few feet in front of the throne. “Dark Wolf. I’ve come to take my castle and rename you.” “As expected, My Lord.” He responded. “Your new name is Darkness. It fits you well, and to be honest I found Dark Wolf a little juvenile for what you actually are.” “Thank you, My Lord. I actually find that name appealing.” “Do you have a crown for me? I would like to take this castle and start a Civilization.” “I will forge one, My Lord.” “Ahem.” Puppet Master looked behind him to see Celestia, standing in all her glory near where he passed by her. Only she took a center stage of the red carpet that led up to the throne. “My name is Princess Celestia.” “Don’t worry I know who you are. I am Puppet Master, as you could guess. Welcome to my castle. May I ask why you’re here?” “Well the castle is in my territory, and it is quite ominous. I would hate to ask you to move it.” In reality, Celestia didn’t want to have to move someone so dangerous out of her sight, nor did she want to upset him, since he technically controls a corrupt army. “So instead may you change the way it looks so my ponies won’t have nightmares about this place?” “Hmm yes I wanted to redo it anyway, so that’s a reasonable demand.” “Oh it wasn’t a demand, I was only asking.” she stated, trying to correct Puppet Master. “Oh no, it’s ok. I don’t mind. I don’t like the ominous feeling, anyway.” he simply stated. “What should it be made of my lord?” asked Darkness, who remained on his knees. After a moment for thought, Puppet Master replied, “Pearlstone. Pearlstone is a beautiful brick that is white and sparkles in the sunlight. I also want silver chandeliers on the ceiling of my throne room so it would match the brick… hmm, also make me a golden crown and a mine in the basement. But also build a dungeon in the basement that looks very unwelcoming. If ponies are to enrage me, they will feel my wrath. But also remember to add more guest rooms. Hundreds more actually. Also build many halls and markets for this tower.” “Markets sir?” “I want this to be the largest castle city in the world. I want ponies to flock to me and feel safe under my care and protection. Of course, if you don’t mind that is, Celestia?” inquired Puppet Master, turning to the regal Goddess of the Sun. “Hmm a new civilization? Sure I’m fine with it. Oh in your letter, you said you were staying with Rainbow Dash. How did that happen? I know Rainbow is a little less trusting of strange things.” “Well, we knew each other before hand. You may not remember, but I fought alongside you not too long ago to defend Equestria. Rainbow is the only one who remembers, so I decided to stay with her while you spread the word of my existence to the four corners of the globe.” “What makes you think I’ll be capable of that?” She asked actually puzzled. “Because you’ve done it before. Now if you excuse me, I have a mare’s house to crash in. Oh I’ll watch your progress from Ponyville, Darkness. I’ll arrive when I see the outside finished, to see if you’ve got the rooms done. Specifically mine and yours, along with the others who may be here.” He started to walk out the door, and took care to walk around Celestia, rather than through her entourage. Then he looked back when he was standing next to Celestia, and said. “Oh and I may not move into the castle right away, because I have a promise to keep.” “Yes my lord. It will be done.” Puppet Master went beyond the double doors and looked through the skylight before spreading his wings and taking off back toward Ponyville. Celestia watched him go and then turned back to Darkness. “Seems unfair that he leaves you to do the building.” “I’m an engineer at heart. He knows that I’d rather do this task alone, since I like the castle to be perfect.” “Oh? Well he’s a very insightful lord then.” “Yes he is. Now if you excuse me.” the floor suddenly gave way and sealed itself up when he fell through it. “…well that’s one way to make an exit.” stated a guard. Celestia stared at the spot rather impressed of his exit for a few moments. “Well let’s head back to Canterlot. I have a feeling I’ve got a lot of work to do.”