Blood Clop was ecstatic that he had finally caught the human bastard, and the best part was he didn't even have to fight him! Konrad had fallen like a bag of rocks, and he did it in front of everypony, effectively giving hope to all of them. Blood Clop felt vindicated of all of his failures earlier in the night and the only thing that could make it better was to have Crimson Tail by his side. Blood Clop looked at Konrad, who was on his back and a slight hoof mark was starting to show on his forehead.
"After all of that fighting from earlier, you couldn't even take one bucking hit? It seems he is nothing without his weapons, well…he didn't even get a chance to use them. I wonder what he was thinking trying to walk up to us."
Blood Clop looked at everypony and said with a triumphant voice,
"Everypony! The human has finally been stopped! We will give him the gift and he will protect us with his weapons against anypony that dares to ruin our Town!"
Everypony began to smile and hoof stomp in approval with the exception of Gladstone and Three Leaf. They were still covered in Konrad's green/brown vomit from mane to muzzle and they began to eye his unconscious body with murderous intent. Blood Clop could not help but find the humorous irony developing before him.
"They told me that I had no right to be act up when Crimson Tail died, but yet when this human pukes on them, they want to kill him as much as I do. They don't even know the half of how disgusting he is, but at least they are on the same page as me."
"Gladstone, Three Leaf, do not do anything to him. It's not his fault he was scared of you." Said Grey Hoof.
The growling duo ceased their murderous looks as Grey Hoof slowly walked up to the crowd that had gathered around an unconscious Konrad. Both of them gave one more evil look towards Konrad before backing away from him. Grey Hoof walked up to Konrad and looked down at the unconscious human. At first his expression was very neutral as he circled around Konrad trying to get a better look. When he stopped at Konrad's feet, he gave a big smile and turned to Blood Clop.
"Good Job Blood Clop, we are all indebted to you. I can see you dispatched him without any trouble. How did you do that without getting killed?"
Blood Clop's chest started to swell up with pride at the praise Grey Hoof offered. It was about time he got recognized for his struggle against the human. Giving a big smile of his own, Blood Clop spoke,
"Well, after hearing Three Leaf shout, I ran as fast as I could. When I saw Konrad…expelling his insides, I ran around Three Leaf's house to cut off his potential escape. I did the best I could to remain silent and my efforts paid off. I find it strange he didn't put Three Leaf or Gladstone to rest. It would seem that the human is nothing without his weapons, or at the very least nothing without the will to use them. I guess the sight of everypony in Town scared him to the point that he could not act on his own, but then again that seems a bit out of character for the human that I have tangled with all night."
Blood Clop then walked over to Konrad and nudge his right arm that had the towel of Poison Joke. Unable to understand what Konrad was trying to do, he simply shrugged and said,
"Or maybe he had a plan all along to harm us, but I can't figure out why he didn't just try and hurt all of us with his weapons. Either way, it's a good thing he done for and now to finally end this once and for all…"
"This is for Crimson Tail you bastard! You don't even deserve this wonderful gift."
As Blood Clop opened his jaw for the final kill, a hoof intercepted him. Ceasing his movement with a surprise look plastered on his face, Blood Clop close his jaw and stare at Grey Hoof.
"What are you doing?! Let me convert him right now!"
"No my friend, I still want to talk with him before he is converted."
Blood Clop began to growl at Grey Hoof and for a few seconds, everypony was worried that his incident with Grey Hoof earlier would repeat itself.
"Why?! Why not just get it over with right now?"
"Because I want to know and understand the human before we convert him. If he's going to be part of our herd or at least a tool to use, we should understand his mind and find out more about where he came from. Since he has clearly shown how capable he is against us, what makes you think others of his kind won't come looking for him? Worse, if they DO come and they bring more of these weapons he possesses, we won't stand a chance at all. I would like to convince him to join us on his own free will and see the wonderful life we have here rather than force him to join."
Grey Hoof then nudged Konrad's SVD a bit and smiled at it. Grey Hoof clearly seemed to have a fascination with the human and his thirst for knowledge was obvious, at least to Blood Clop.
"It's an interesting and deadly weapon, wouldn't you agree."
Blood Clop looked at Konrad's SVD and growled at the sight of it. It was the same weapon that he used against so many of his friends and especially his Marefriend, who he one day wanted to marry.
"It's the same one he used to kill Crimson Tail. I'd rather see it torn apart that is if I knew how to do so."
Grey Hoof lowered his ears and frowned at the revelation the weapon was the instrument of Crimson Tail's demise. Sighing before turning back to Blood Clop with sympathetic look on his face, Grey Hoof then said,
"I'm sorry about Crimson Tail, Blood Clop. We all will miss her and I think I speak for everypony that she was meant for you."
A wave of "Eeyups" and "Uh huhs" came from the group of Blood Hooves and Blanks surrounding the human. Blood Clop felt like crying about Crimson Tail right there in front of everypony, but didn't want to appear weak like he had earlier. He was a protector for his friends and a stallion must be strong for his herd of friends.
"She would want me to be strong, and as such I will do what Grey Hoof says, for the betterment of Sunny Town."
"Thanks my friends. Well then Grey Hoof, what do want to do with him in the mean time? I'm sure he'll wake up soon."
Grey Hoof looked at Konrad again and Blood Clop wondered what was going through his friend's mind. Even after all these years, Grey Hoof still was a bit mysterious and his way of thinking was something Blood Clop himself never understood. The only thing that really mattered was the fact that he truly had Sunny Town's best interest at heart.
"If only so many of our friends weren't lost this evening, I would be greeting him with open hooves, especially if Crimson Tail were here to see it. I will miss you my mare."
After a few more seconds of observing the unconscious human, Grey Hoof turned to Blood Clop and said,
"I want you to remove his weapons and anything else that he might have, no matter how strange or harmless it might be. When you have completed the task, store his weapons with the other one and make sure it is guarded until further notice. Roneo, Starlet! I have a task for you two."
The two Blanks were still in the corner calling each other loves names that they had spent the past hour away from everypony. They hadn't even bothered to eat the cake that Three Leaf had made, and that was something of annoyance considering the work that was put into it. Hearing their names, the two love ponies reluctantly ceased their romantic activity and trotted over to Grey Hoof. Speaking with an uninterested tone, Roneo and Starlet answered,
"Yes Grey Hoof?" said Roneo.
"What do you need us to do?" asked Starlet.
"Ungrateful love ponies! They should be glad that the human has been caught and they are lucky that they even have each other…I guess it's because they were much younger before they were converted, but still they should recognize when it's time to do something besides call each other love names."
Grey Hoof pointed to Konrad and said,
"When Blood Clop has removed his personal effects, take him to your house."
"What?! Why would Grey Hoof order such a thing?!"
"What?! No way! I don't want that human in my house!"
"Don't you mean our house now?" said Starlet with a wink.
This perked up Roneo as he turned to Starlet and gave her a big smile. Apparently, they were already taking their newly formed relationship to the next level.
"I hope they know what they're doing. Marriage is a huge commitment…one that I might never get to do. Still, it would be nice to see Grey Hoof perform the ceremony and heh, maybe Konrad could be the best stallion! Ehehe."
Grey Hoof simply shook his head and gave an annoyed look at Roneo, clearly indicating that his patience was running low. Blood Clop assumed that this was because he had a lot to manage as leader of Sunny Town and that romance was the least of his concerns.
"As I was saying, take Konrad to your house, and lock the door. Before you do so, let's introduce him to Mitta. I'm sure she'll be interested to know that this is the special somebody that Ruby has…if you all know what I mean."
"Ahh…now it all makes since. I will enjoy hearing Konrad scream for mercy from Ruby's mother as he come to beg us for mercy. This WILL be fun for sure. Suffer Konrad!"
Everypony started to chuckle and a few hoof stomped in approval too. Having a human face the wrath of an angry mother was going to fun as everypony was aware of how aggressive Mitta had become over the years. Perhaps this would be a good way to convince Mitta to come around. Both Roneo and Starlet gave off their own evil smiles, while Blood Clop took the initiative to strip Konrad of all his weapons and items.
Blood Clop had to use his forelegs to roll Konrad over to get his long weapon which was held on by a green cotton strap. Needless to say, it was a pain in the rump wiggling the damn thing off of him, but with much patience and the help of Roneo, he was able to get it off of him. He cast the vile weapon aside and reminded himself to examine the thing in great detail considering how powerful it was. The next thing to do was get the strange vest off of him and that was much more of a challenge. This task required the help of another pony and Three Leaf was all too eager to help.
She took pleasure in getting the vest off of him and cast it aside before wiping Konrad's vomit aggressively on his face and arms in an effort to insult and clean herself at the same time.
"Here's your disgusting human stuff you…disgusting human you!"
"I don't blame her but I still can't figure out what is more funny, the fact that he vomited on her or that she lacks the vocabulary to insult others…nah the puke is more hilarious."
Gladstone on the other hoof was a bit more collected about it and he simply wiped the human's contents off his face using his hoof. He was still clearly angry but the stallion couldn't resist laughing at Three Leaf's anger. Apparently the normally quiet stallion did have a sense of humor after all. As soon as Three Leaf turned back around, he ceased laughing as she gave him a death glare, thus making worry that he had screwed up in front of his mare. The tension quickly melted away as she began laughing and soon the stallion relaxed and joined her too.
Several other Blanks and Blood Hooves joined in their laughter as well, one which Grey hoof himself couldn't resist.
"Even in a time of darkness, there is always something to laugh about and cherish. Oh Crimson Tail, if only you were here to see this."
There was something missing that Blood Clop couldn't put his hoof quite on however, and it began to further nag Blood Clop to the point of great annoyance. Suddenly it hit him, he forgot his smaller weapon!
"Check his pockets. He's got a smaller weapon somewhere. It's the one that he used to rip Crimson Tail's hooves off."
Several of the Blood Hooves growled at the mention of the human who was so sadistic in hurting one of their friends like that. Roneo began to look in his right hip pocket while Blood Clop looked in the left one. Roneo was able to find several sticks with shiny pieces in a hollow center while Blood Clop was unable to find the smaller weapon. Determined to find it, he check another pocket on the human's lower left leg that he failed to see earlier in the night. Then again, he was too busy trying to maintain distance avoiding the human's ability to reach out and strike others.
His efforts paid off as he found the small weapon with his hoof and pulled it out immediately. It was the first time he had gotten a close look at the small, but deadly device and strangely found a fascination with it despite what it had done to his friends and his late mare. He still had no clue how it worked and he was extra careful not to point if at any pony. It was very unwieldy for pony for sure as he had trouble keeping it in his hoof for goodness sake! This weapon was truly meant for a human and Konrad was a master of it.
As Blood Clop recognized this fact, a thought popped into his mind concerning the weapon,
"Humans…so strange and mysterious, but they know what power is…if only I could have recognized that earlier, maybe Crimson Tail and the others might be alive. I seriously wished nothing had happened to them as perhaps Konrad and I might have been good friends…if only he had just accepted our friendship, things might have been better for all of us…damn you Ruby! Damn you for bringing him here! I'll show you great irony as your special somebody blows your head away year after year!"
"Blood Clop?" asked Grey Hoof, "Are you okay?"
As Blood Clop snapped out of his trance, the stallion gave off and embarrassed look and said,
"Sorry, I was just think about how dangerous this human was and about his weapons. I just don't understand how they could be rude and violent, especially for creating these…death instruments. Despite that, I can't help but find some fascination about him and what he knows."
Grey Hoof gave a light smile and said,
"Now you understand why I wanted him alive Blood Clop. I know it must have been extremely hard for you, but this has to be done this way, so others won't share the same fate."
Blood Clop didn't know what to say other than just simply nod.
"I think that's all of them. Grey Hoof, what do you intend to do with Ruby in the mean time?"
Grey Hoof looked at the direction of Ruby's old home where she was being held by two Blood Hooves. He narrowed his eyes and said,
"I will question her a bit further and return to meet Konrad when he has woken up. Until then, everypony have fun and try some of Three Leaf's punch! She's made a new batch!"
Three Leaf gave a slight pony squeal that sounded incredibly creepy while everypony cheered for the mare that made the wonderful punch…well for them at least.
As Blood Clop and Grey Hoof observed Konrad get dragged away by Roneo and Starlet, every Blood Hoof growled at the human as he was dragged by. A few wanted to clop him on the ground by Grey Hoof stared down everypony that even so much dared to touch him. The human was simply too valuable to be harmed without convincing him to join the herd and if he was like any creature that was cornered, he was most likely put up a huge fight. It was a danger that Blood Clop could see very clearly and he had enough of the human's surprises for the night, with the old ruins being a key example.
"Enjoy your nap while you can Konrad, for you have a wave of pain coming your way and when that happens you'll beg for my mercy."
When Konrad was out of sight, along with Starlet and Roneo, the Blood Hoof leader turned to Konrad's items and gathered a few Blood Hooves to take them to Grey Hoof's house where the one with the orange claw was currently residing. It would be a very interesting learning experience getting to examine his strange tools of death.
"Reaper's Hand…the name definitely suits him…I guess I chose it well."
Three Leaf, with Gladstone's help, carried the new batch of punch to the party table, where a lot of eager Blood Hooves were just dying to try it out. With a new set of punch, cake, a captured marked one and a captured human under their hoof, the Blanks and Blood Hooves had a great reason to celebrate. When Konrad's weapons were set in Grey Hoof's home, Blood Clop began to make his way over Grey Hoof's home before its owner and his friend spoke out loud.
"Attention Everypony! Due to the wonderful turn of events, the party has just been set in full motion! I want to thank Three Leaf for making this wonderful cake and punch! You did a good job my friend!"
Everypony began to hoof stomp and cheer for the mare that did the Blank equivalent of blushing, which was to have a few spots of blood ooze out of her cheeks.
"And I want to thank Blood Clop for working so hard to catch the human! Without his hard work and understanding of our enemy, soon to be friend, the party could have greatly been ruined, and our life could have been lost! Thank you Blood Clop!"
Blood Clop nodded and stepped forward as everypony hoof stomped the ground. He needed to say something before he could at least relax for a bit.
"Thank you everypony and thank you Grey Hoof, I appreciate it. Before we enjoy the party, I want to make a toast."
Everypony, including Grey Hoof and Blood Clop, took a small cup of punch. Blood Clop looked at the wonderful blood red elixir in his hoof and held it high as far as he could extend it to pony heaven.
"This is for you Crimson Tail."
"I want to toast all of the ponies that were lost this night…Blood Shot, Necro Hoof…his family Little Blood and Dark Hoof…and Crimson Tail."
Everypony lowered their heads in sadness, including Grey Hoof, with a few mares in the ground slightly crying blood out of their eyes while their special someponies began to comfort them. The party had taken such as sad tone at the reminder of the price that was paid to keep Sunny town safe from Ruby and her special somebody. Their hatred for her would never cease, and it would seem that their dislike for Konrad would carry on as well.
"Okay, Blood Clop, finish it off with a happy note."
"And thanks to them, our party and protection will last…FOREVER!"
Everypony began to hoof stomp with the mares crying at the same time. Roneo began to nuzzle a crying Starlet as Gladstone did the same for Three Leaf. Blood Clop at this moment began to wish that he could do the same with Crimson Tail, but he knew that it was time to move on for the sake of Sunny Town. Plus seeing his enemy suffer was going to sweet revenge. He would personally enjoy using Konrad as tool to hurt Ruby.
And with that note, Blood Clop drank the cup of punch with much enjoyment. There was nothing else that could wrong from this point.
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Grey Hoof, after seeing the party kick off with an emotional start, began to walk towards Ruby's old decrepit home. It was so strange that it had been over one hundred years since this whole thing began, since Ruby almost destroyed the town. And it was here where the gift was born, and where it came rom he had no idea. The voice was intimidating at first but since then it had been nothing but a good conscience, guiding him throughout the years with the best interest of his herd at heart. And the parties were absolutely wonderful year after year with more friends than he could imagine.
"I really love parties, I really do. All I ever wanted was to have fun with my friends and keep our town happy. I couldn't stand to let the heartache from the past destroy what we had left. She had to go, she had the mark."
As Ruby's house came into view, he could see two stallion guards outside the door watching for anything. It seemed that they we unaware that the human had been caught, but it Ruby was a clever mare. It would seem that no matter how futile her efforts were, she would always find a way to try and ruin what they had.
"And now I will show you how wrong you are Ruby. If only the mark never happened…perhaps we could have been-"
"Do not fret over the past! You two were never meant to be and she would have ripped your heart out given the chance. She is evil, you are not. Take care of the pestilence that she is." Said Grey Hoof's conscience.
"Yes, you are right as always. I will take care of her, but I think the human will be a better choice to carry that out."
"Do not underestimate the human. They have a tendency to be resilient and rebellious and surprising when you least expect it. They are interesting though."
"I agree, I find his weapon very curious indeed, but how do you know about humans?"
"It does not matter. See to the care of your herd."
Returning to matters at hoof, Grey Hoof informed the Stallions that the human had been caught and they smiled with glee. He also informed them that the human called Konrad would soon join the herd and his ways of fighting will help protect Sunny Town. They both hoof stomped in approval before the told them he was going inside to see Ruby. The mention of her name cause them to growl, but they nodded and went back to being the vigilant stallions they were.
As Grey Hoof opened and close the door, he saw a blood hoof mare pointing and laughing at Ruby who was bound up with Three Leaf's spare rope.
"I swear Three Leaf has a lot of tools. Strange though, I wonder what she planned on using the rope for? She mentioned that she was going to use with Gladstone for something special, but what could that be?"
Sometimes he didn't understand his friend at all, but Grey Hoof cast it aside and slowly walked towards Ruby as the mare kept laughing at her. Ruby's yellow eyes were very intense, glowing an extremely bright yellow equipped with a death glare of her own.
"Hahaha! Your special somepony is a human? Wow, your so dirty you filthy marked one!" said the mare.
Angry at the being made fun of, Ruby responded to the mare with a very nasty response.
"You don't even know what wonderful man he is and you will never know true love you freak. He's going to come here are burn this whole place to the ground. Now I wonder if you're aware of the fact that your stallion friend hasn't come back yet? Ooops! I forgot he blew his head off just before I got dragged here. Now what was his name again? Scalped Mane was it? Oh the irony!"
The mare was in complete shock at the revelation that her own special somepony was gone, and that Ruby had personally been there to witness it. The mare let out a loud screech and began to buck Ruby numerous times in the side and on the head.
"OOF! AH! AGH!" shouted Ruby in pain.
"YOU BITCH! HE KILLED MY SPECIAL SOMEPONY AND IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT THAT YOU BROUGHT HIM HERE! AAIIEEEE!"
As much as Ruby deserved it, Grey Hoof felt that he needed to stop the fight, for Ruby deserved to face the same fate the hands of the human she liked.
"Or loved…strange that I feel a bit jealous of it. I mean I USED to like Ruby but after what she did…never again."
"Stop Blood Screech, Ruby will face her punishment soon enough. I understand that you are upset, but time will heal your wound. Go to the others and ask for their comfort. You need it right now."
The mare called Blood Screech just looked at Grey Hoof an nodded, but not without a few tears of blood coming from her eyes. The sight pained Grey Hoof, but he had a job to do and he need his friend to leave and go to her friends. Blood Screech gave on last screech at Ruby before hitting her once more with her hoof before bolting out of the house crying. Ruby moaned in pain before turning her own death glare towards Grey Hoof. Her contempt for Grey Hoof was very obvious to anypony that could observe her in her bound up state.
"So Grey Hoof, here to get it over with? You know after you "kill" me again, I'm just going to wind back up somewhere in the forest and that I'm going to just come back again before you "sleep"."
Grey Hoof walked even closer to Ruby, hoping to scare the mare with his close presence. It didn't work, and this surprised him for being close to her in her house usually caused her to whimper in fear, especially since this was where she died.
"She isn't scared. She usually is, I'll be it has something to do with the human. I guess he's given her some confidence, however false it may be."
"Reveal to her that he human has been captured. Then break her resolve by telling her what is in store for the filthy thing that she is."
No matter how long the years have been, his conscience never ceased to amaze him with his wonderful ideas. He was finally going to demoralize her and forever break her spirit for the harm that she caused upon his friends. It was sad that the past happened and that his former crush had become a curse, but there was no excuse, not now or ever. She had come back year after year to try and ruin their party, HIS party that he worked so hard to make forever pony. How dare she even think about that!
And the worst part was that several of his friends were killed by the human because of her, but no anymore. He would take pleasure in the irony of taking her special somebody to wipe her out. He could only imagine how his weapons would harm her more than their hooves could do.
"Yes, this human will do very well."
Grey Hoof smiled at Ruby as he got closer, and spoke in a calm tone.
"No Ruby, I am not. I'm actually here to just talk to you."
Ruby snorted in anger and spoke,
"No you're not Grey Hoof; I can tell when you're lying. I know what to look for when anypony does."
Grey Hoof's smile quickly faded as Ruby called him out on his lie, something Ruby smirked at. He wouldn't let her remain confident however, as he had a party to attend to and a human to meet. He quickly let his smile back up and said,
"Well, it seems that is just one of the things you know what to look for. Care to tell me what else you know what to look for?"
"GO TO PONY HECK YOU FUCKING BASTARD!" shouted Ruby as her eyes glowed very bright yellow.
Grey Hoof was taken aback slightly at her strong defiance. He understood the word bastard but not the word fucking. Did that mean bucking? Then his mind quickly registered the meaning thanks to his conscience telling him. Grey Hoof's eyes glowed a bright but darker shade of red, and his smile quickly morphed into a disgusting scowl. Ruby was still unfazed by his appearance and even smirked further at his anger. Grey Hoof began to lift his hoof up to strike her but stopped.
"No, the news will be far worse, enough fooling around."
"Well, I see that this Konrad has taught you some rather…colorful words. He certainly seems to be the special "somebody" that you've always wanted. Now I wonder if he likes parties-"
"Just say what you're going to say Grey Hoof. Konrad will be here any minute."
While annoyed at being interrupted, Grey Hoof simply ignored the comment and continued to speak with a big grin on his zompony form.
"OH! But he IS here Ruby! In fact he actually have him locked away in Roneo's house."
Ruby's eyes widened and a look of fear plastered her face. Her mouth began to make a few whimpering noises as she began to shake with fear. It was the same she had done all those years ago before he killed her.
"Excellent, now take advantage and crush her even further."
"Y-you…you lie!"
Grey Hoof just chuckled and said,
"No Ruby, I do not. Go ahead…look for whatever it is you look for when a pony is lying."
Ruby looked into his eyes and examined his facial expressions. Even having a different form didn't seem to matter as Ruby always knew what to look for. It was a rather annoying trait that she had and no doubt it had something to do with the curse she almost brought upon the town. All of sudden Ruby went back to her previous expression of fear, but this time it was magnified threefold. She began to cry hard and shake violently. This pleased Grey Hoof immensely.
"NO...NO NO NO! KONRAD! HELP ME! AAAAHHHHH!"
"It is no use Ruby, as you should have learned long ago that your attempts to ruin this town's happiness will inevitably fail. My party will not be ruined. A shame that our friendship had to end as it did long ago…we could have been something more."
As Grey Hoof finished his sentence, he lifted his left hoof against Ruby's back and began to move his way towards her flank. Ruby flinched and recoiled as if it were acid causing Grey Hoof to back off. Ruby then unleashed a flurry of insults at Grey Hoof.
"FUCK YOU! FUCK YOU! I HATE YOU SO MUCH GREY HOOF!"
"Well, you may hate me but I did what I had to, and you should just have accepted that. But because of your constant interference and the loss of life that was caused by your "special somebody" I will have Konrad as part of our town. And by the end of this night, he will finish you off with his weapons instead of Blood clop and I. And what a sight it will be, having a human as one of us. And he will hate you…FOREVER!"
"NOOO! Don't hurt him! AAAGGGH!" screamed Ruby as tears began to pour constantly
"You should have thought about that before you asked him to harm us. And if you don't mind, I have to attend my party, chat with the human. Now I wonder what your mother will think of him. She's certainly gained quite the temper over the years, and no doubt she will be interested to hear all about how he met you. Now I wonder if she will kill him before Blood Clop doe…my bet's on Blood Clop, but hey, you know your mother right?" said Grey Hoof with a smug tone.
"KONRAD! GIVE HIM BACK! PLEASE LET HIM GO! I PROMISE NEVER TO COME BACK!" cried a desperate Ruby.
"I shall ponder this…well, I've pondered and my answer is no. I will enjoy watching you suffer. I hope you will enjoy the finale later on, it's going to make the party finish on a wonderful note."
And just like that Grey Hoof casually trotted out of the house closing the door behind him. A loud, but muffled scream with inaudible words were heard on the other side. The two stallions guarding the door laughed at the sound of Ruby crying her heart out. Grey Hoof himself out a chuckle of his own before heading back towards the town's center. He had some punch and cake to indulge in, as well as talk with the human. This was certainly going to be the best party ever.
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The sound of Ruby's screaming from the house could still be heard as Grey Hoof walked away. It got quieter and quieter until he could hear her screaming no more. If he or anypony for that matter had opened the door, they would have heard he scream at the top of her lungs,
"PLEASE FORGIVE ME KONRAD! I'M SO SORRY! I LOVE YOU KONRAD! I LOVE YOU! HELP ME SOMEPONY! SOMEBODY! PLEASE!"
This continued for a very long time before Ruby curled up into a ball whimpering and soaking the floor wet of her tears. The only thing that she could think of at the moment was Konrad's safety, and the touch of his fingers stroking through her mane when they first met each other. As she began to calm down, she couldn't but help get the feeling that she needed to sleep. It was strange because as a ghost she never slept.
"What is going on with me?! Konrad is still out there with them, and I'm feeling sleepy?"
And then the dream she had earlier popped into her mind when she closed her eyes, as if it was sign. She could imagine seeing her wonderful human daughter in her simple Equestrian dress that was fit for a young girl. She seemed so innocent and sweet, with a caring smile that reminded her of her mother and herself long ago. Her mane certainly was the same orange highlighted color as her own with her father's eyes. She was definitely their daughter.
Then the image of her pony son, younger but more adventurous then her daughter. Ruby smiled as she saw that he definitely took more after his father's side as far as personality went. His grey coat was the same her and her own mother's. His eye color was the same as Ruby. The one thing he had in physical similarities was his short man that Konrad seemed to have. And the fact that his short, highlighted mane was the same shade of blue Konrad's eyes were was an obvious sign to Ruby that he was his son.
They were just Konrad's children or Ruby's children, they were their children. And Ruby imagined a slightly older, more mature Konrad. And the only other thing Ruby could think of was how lucky she was to have them.
"They're mine, all mine. One happy family, just what I've always wanted. Katja, Blau Streifen and Konrad."
As Ruby smiled at the happy thoughts pouring in her head, a nagging worry popped into her mind. It was her mother, and she was not happy at Konrad. She imagined her mother a bit older and in the form that she once had long ago. She was giving Konrad a stern glare, a clear sign that she didn't like him. Her eyes began to glow red and Konrad began to sweat as he noticed Mitta giving him a death glare. Ruby imagined saying "MOM!" before her mother ceased glowing her eyes and returning a loving smile of her own.
"I really wish that this was all real, I would be happy forever if my dream were to come true. I hope my mom isn't doing anything to scare Konrad…what am I thinking?! He can take care of himself and I know he is brave and strong. Surely, he can handle talking to my mom."
And Ruby's new dream kicked off with more happy thoughts which consisted of the playing in the yard, talking about tomorrow's work and when Konrad was going into Ponyville with Ruby while Mitta looked after the kids. As Ruby continued to dream, the tears that were flowing from her eyes earlier were not of sadness and despair but of happiness and joy. Ruby knew that Konrad had chosen her for sure, and from that point on, she knew she had found a real treasure.
Konrad was something that she would never let go of, and Ruby was determined to keep him somehow. With that in mind, Ruby opened her eyes and began to look around the inside of her former home. She had to find something to get out of the rope, and she had to help Konrad.
"I have to be with him, I have to!"
Looking at the fireplace, she winced at the sight of her burnt bones. Even after all this time, they were still there, and the horrible memories began to flow from her mind, causing her to shake. Then the strangest thing happened…she heard a voice!
"All will be fine. Stay strong and you will prevail. He needs you just as you need him. Observe, focus and act when you are ready."
Ruby began to franticly look around in the room for the source of the voice, but was unable to find anything. This confused the ghost mare and she spoke out loud to herself,
"What?! Where did that come from?! Am I losing my mind? Maybe that has already happened…doesn't matter I'm coming Konrad!"
As soon as Ruby found a solution, she began to bounce and roll her way over to the fire place. It took a lot of her will power to prevent the fire place from scaring her coat off, but she braved it anyway. After finding a sharp point in the fire place log holder, she began to work he way out of the rope, steadily decreasing the rope's integrity.
"I wonder how Konrad is…I hope he's okay."
And with that last note, she began to increase her speed and determination, desperate to see her special somebody, chucking softly at the thought of a rejected Princess Luna.
"I'm going to feel bad for Luna when she hears the news, but I deserve him more."
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Princess Luna was still in the dream truck that Apple Bloom had dreamed up and was still hugging the pseudo Konrad. It was truly sight the Princess Luna could not get tired off, and a reminder of why Konrad was worth pursuing. Most of what Luna had done was simply stand by and watch wondering if she would at least get the attention of the pseudo but realistic looking Konrad.
"I wish I could wrap my wings around him and hold him…"
"I told you would like him."
"Yes…you were right. You were right all night about everything. I still wonder if he wants me though. I was not expecting to have competition at all. I thought my looks alone would win him over."
"There's always more than looks Luna. Personality means a whole lot to him, and just because you're an attractive Alicorn doesn't mean an Earth Pony can't compete with you."
"I guess you're right…but I still hope he chose me."
"You'll see soon enough, and he might be closer than you think."
"Closer than I think…yes, he must be having a dream! That is what you mean right?"
"Well…yes technically but-"
"Be quiet my voice! I must find him…I have to find him!"
Princess Luna softly spoke to Apple Bloom and said,
"Young Apple Bloom, I'm going to step outside for just a moment. Will you be fine for the time being?"
Apple Bloom perked her head up away from the pseudo Konrad, who was surprised for a moment before turning his towards Luna, giving her a very unique smile that only belong to him. Apple Bloom immediately gave Princess Luna a pleading look, and said,
"What?! Where ya going? Stay with us! Please!"
"It's okay Apple Bloom, Princess Luna probably has some "business" to take care of. She will be fine and she won't be far away. Am I right?"
The false Konrad gave her a grin that could rival Discord's own before Luna gave him a not amused look. It was clear that he was insinuating that she had to relieve herself. Had this been the real Konrad, she would have involuntarily blushed before giving him the same angry glare that she had him earlier when Ruby was nuzzling his neck.
"It seems she even got his personality right. I can take solace in the fact that this isn't the real Konrad."
Doing her best to not be embarrassed at Konrad's suggested excuse for her soon to be absence, Princess Luna gave Apple Bloom her best look of assurance. Unfortunately, it came off as a bit creepy just as she had done during her first visit in Ponyville's Nightmare Night Celebration when the citizens became afraid of her.
"Yes young Apple Bloom. I will be back in just a few minutes. Konrad should be able to keep you company until I return."
"If you were real right now Konrad, I would severely admonish you."
"Before you profess your love right?"
"Yes, I…be quiet my conscience."
"Alright, but please come back soon Princess Luna." said Apple Bloom.
"Please young Apple Bloom, call me Luna." smiled Princess Luna.
Apple Bloom smiled before turning back to Konrad. Konrad was still looking at Princess Luna and gave her a wink, causing the Alicorn Mare to blush. Princess Luna used her magic to open the door and jumped out while using her magic again to close the door. After taking a few minutes to recover from the awkward but cute moment, Princess Luna focused her magic preparing to search for Konrad's dreams or really anything that she could find.
"I don't understand how he seemed so real…in either case I will find him before he wakes…"
Before she could jump to a dream, a scream was heard coming from the truck. Princess Luna immediately went into alert mode and opened the door to find Apple Bloom crying and that Konrad had completely disappeared.
"NO! Puhleease come back Konrad, Puhleease!" cried Apple Bloom.
"Pray tell Apple Bloom! What happened during my absence?!"
Apple Bloom's face was buried in her hooves as she cried with a good amount of tears pouring down her face. Princess Luna knew she had to do something to calm Apple Bloom down, she had to stay and comfort her especially what they went through. Princess Luna jumped back into the truck and closed the passenger door using her magic. Princess Luna then moved her right hoof to pull Apple Bloom's head out of her hooves and made eye contact with the filly.
"Please tell us…me, what happened."
Apple Bloom sniffed a little bit and wiped her tears from her eyes and said in a sad tone,
"When ya left a few minutes ago, Konrad said that his time was up and that Ruby needed him."
None of this made any sense to Princess Luna for a filly like Apple Bloom wouldn't have dreamed Konrad away like that. No, this pseudo Konrad would have stayed with her and he definitely wouldn't have mentioned Ruby needing him. Apple Bloom couldn't have dreamed up Konrad to be so independent and sentient like Konrad. Princess Luna then asked Apple Bloom,
"Did he say anything else Apple Bloom?"
"Well…he did say something about he made a choice and that if he knew he was running out of time, he would have told you right then and there. He also said that he was sorry for having to leave me and that he didn't get to say good bye to you…and…"
Apple Bloom began to cry even harder as tears began to pour and the filly curled up into a ball, shaking on the truck seat. Princess Luna's pupils shrunk in size at the filly's emotional statement. This Konrad that she had dreamed up was beginning to sound more and more like…
"NO! It…it couldn't have been…"
"Ask her some more Luna and comfort her while you can. You both will need it."
It was a painful sight to see but Princess Luna had to have answers. She had to know what Konrad had said, and she had to comfort Apple Bloom. Extending her wings around Apple Bloom, the filly ceased shaking and looked up to Princess Luna. The sad expression on her face was enough to cause even the most hardened and disciplined Guard to break his bearing and cry too.
"Apple Bloom…please tell me what else he said."
Apple Bloom sniffed one more time before saying,
"He said that he didn't know if…if…that he'd be able to come back. And that he'd miss you and Ah a lot. He also said that both of us are home and that we shouldn't be sad. He then hugged me before he disappeared!"
Apple Bloom's spirit was broken and the poor filly began to cry even harder. Princess Luna was shocked at the last words that Apple Bloom spoke.
"Remember when I said he was closer than you think? Well…I meant literally Luna."
"WHAT!? WHY DIDN'T YOU JUST TELL ME INSTEAD OF BEING CRYPTIC!?"
"You told me to be quiet remember?"
"HOW DARE YOU! I WANTED TO SPEAK TO HIM! I WANTED TO HOLD HIM! I WANTED HIM! NOW I MIGHT NEVER SEE HIM AGAIN! I…I…JUST WANT HIM BACK!"
"And you may very well see him again Luna, but in the meantime, you will need to watch over your subjects, including this one."
"Her name is Apple Bloom, and she is more than a subject…she is my friend and I shall watch over her. From now on you shall do what I say."
"Unfortunately Luna, my time is up for you. I'm glad that you've taken my advice to heart and that you've reflected on your mistakes and taken the action to correct them. You will do fine from now on, and remember, you are not alone. Good bye Luna."
"WAIT! COME BACK! I NEED YOUR ADVICE STILL!"
But there was nothing, no more voice, and no more presence that she could feel. She only could feel the presence of Apple loom crying within her wings reach, and the sadness that she carried. Princess Luna was sad that Konrad wasn't here and that both of them were not awake to around their family and friends.
"There is only one thing I can do until both of us wake up."
"All shall be fine young Apple Bloom. We will weather this nightmare together and we will see Konrad again."
"We…we will?" asked Apple Bloom.
A tear fell down to her muzzle and dangled there. Princess Luna used the tip of her right wing to wipe it away and gave Apple Bloom a smile.
"Yes we will Apple Bloom and he will be a quest of honor at the Celebration. You do remember the plan I came up with right?"
Apple Bloom giggled a little bit before turning back to her sad expression.
"B-but…Ah want him NOOOOWW!"
"I know Apple Bloom…I do too."
Apple Bloom then hugged Princess Luna who returned the hug with her wings. They would stay together until they would wake up, desperate to be with their loved ones and with Konrad.
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Konrad thought that he was completely dead when he saw Blood Clop buck him. The pain was brief but it hurt like hell to him. Everything was black around him and he wondered if this was death.
"NO! This is Bullshit! Death can't be just a freaking black void! Maybe that was all just a dream; maybe I fell asleep or something. I guess I need to lay off of the my little Pony cartoons."
"No Konrad, it wasn't a dream…this is a dream, and the one having it needs you right now."
"WHAT?! Not you again! Seriously, this HAS to be a dream! It's just too damn weird. I couldn't have been in Equestria and especially the Story of the Blanks version."
"No Konrad it was real and you are still in Equestria but right now you are dreaming and she needs you. I guess you can say is…wake up."
Before Konrad could say anything, the black void was no more and he found himself standing outside his truck, which was still in the water.
"Goddamit! My truck is still here?! At least Twilight Sparkle isn't messing with it."
Remembering that the mane six, along with Princess Celestia and the guards, were around his truck earlier, Konrad began to scan around hoping not to be turned into stone. He couldn't find anypony, not even the bodies of the blanks that he killed earlier were nearby. It was just him and his truck in Everfree Forest, with Apple Bloom inside the back seat.
"Apple Bloom is here! Oh man! I thought I got her out of the forest with Princess Luna! Shit! Are the Blood Hooves nearby?!"
"No Konrad, this is Apple Bloom's dream and it's a Nightmare for her. Got to her and comfort her."
"Well…I guess that's good but still it's not good because she's sad and…ah hell I'm coming Apple Bloom!"
Konrad walked over to the door and knocked on it, eager to see his one of his favorite MLP characters. Apple Bloom on the other side of the door shouted with a muffled sound,
"KONRAD!"
"No, she isn't a character. She is real and she's my friend and I'll treat her as such. Also can't act like a dork when I see her."
As the door opened he saw a surprised but very excited Apple Bloom and behind her was none other than…
"Princess Luna?! Wow…she looks beautiful…and why is she smiling like that?"
"Oh you!"
"Yeah, yeah, I'm a brony blah blah…but still why is Luna here?"
"Does it matter Konrad? You're here with both of them."
"Well, since this is Apple Bloom's dream, I guess it makes since she would dream about her since she was with both of us. That would be weird if Luna could into somepony's dream…speaking of which, how am I doing this?"
"Shouldn't you be comforting Apple Bloom?"
"Oh right."
Konrad then held his arms wide open, hoping that Apple Bloom would want to hug him again. The little filly was more than happy to as she jumped in his arms and hugged him very hard. The sensation of Apple Bloom hugging him was just like before, warm and cozy.
"Dream or not, this is really nice. I can't believe I got to meet Apple Bloom, and become like…well a big brother to her. She reminds me of my own sister in some ways."
"Hey Apple Bloom! You didn't think I'd leave you behind would you?"
"Nope! No siree that's for sure!"
"You're a good filly you know that?"
"And you're a good human! Stay that way!"
Konrad couldn't but help chuckle on the inside as Apple Bloom told him the same thing as he had done to her earlier at the ruins. He was so glad to make her happy as she nuzzled him on his neck. At first it kinda tickled him, but that was easily over come as her pony muzzle buried itself even deeper and he began to softly rub her red mane. It too was just as soft as her coat, and he wished that he didn't have to stop.
"I don't plan on changing Apple Bloom."
If there was ever a true moment of "DAWWW!" it was now and Konrad's brain was overloading with it. He could see out of the corner of his eye that Princess Luna was smiling, and essentially approving of what she saw. Konrad felt like talking to Luna and telling her of his decision, but Ruby wasn't here and not to mention that he wasn't comfortable of talking about Romance in front of Apple Bloom. His decision would have resulted in the possible heartbreak of one mare, and that was something he wasn't quite prepared for.
As soon as he continued to hug Apple Bloom, Princess Luna spoke up and said,
"Young Apple Bloom, I'm going to step outside for just a moment. Will you be fine for the time being?"
Apple Bloom turned her head away from Konrad and looked at Princess Luna with her ears all perked up. Konrad thought it was pretty interesting how their ears could move depending on their feelings. Konrad actually had no idea why the imaginary Princess Luna wanted to leave, and he could only guess why.
"Maybe it's because she isn't needed since I'm here now. I guess Apple Bloom really cares for me…DAWWW! But still, where's the love for Luna?"
"I'm pretty sure your more than willing to show her."
"Ian…shut up."
"Okay, but I have to tell you…"
"IAN! SHUT THE HELL UP! You're killing the DAWWW!"
"So overused that word is…fine."
"What?! Where ya going? Stay with us! Please!" pleaded Apple Bloom.
"It's okay Apple Bloom, Princess Luna probably has some "business" to take care of. She will be fine and she won't be far away. Am I right?"
Konrad couldn't but tease the image of Princess Luna, as he was in a good mood and hell, it wasn't the real Princess Luna so it didn't matter. Her reaction was pretty funny as Apple Bloom looked at the Alicorn Princess for an answer. Princess Luna wasn't at all pleased at the excuse Konrad had given on behalf of the night Princess. Her eyes looked directly at him as if to say, "that's not funny and you know it."
"Too bad it is! Hehehe"
"You know Konrad…"
"What did I tell you earlier?!"
"Okay…but don't say I-"
"Didn't warn you, consequences, blah blah blah."
"*sigh*"
"Yes young Apple Bloom. I will be back in just a few minutes. Konrad should be able to keep you company until I return."
The look Luna had on her face was really funny, as it seemed that she was coming off a bit creepy in his mind. It seemed almost similar to when she came to Ponyville during the Nightmare Night Celebration when everypony began to freak out at her poor attempt to calm everypony down. Thankfully Apple Bloom was a bit stronger than that, and Konrad could only smiled wide at the reaction that Princess Luna presented.
Konrad certainly knew how to push buttons whenever he found them, and Princess Luna was apparently no exception. In fact nobody, or anypony that matter was truly immune to the occasional trolling, but Konrad never meant it seriously especially to his favorite characters.
"No not characters…friends."
"Alright, but please come back soon Princess Luna." said Apple Bloom.
"Please young Apple Bloom, call me Luna." smiled Princess Luna.
Konrad couldn't but help smile at Luna's proper use of words as she called Apple Bloom young before speaking her name. She was truly a proper Princess to the heart, a quality to Konrad that found attractive. This caused Konrad to wink at the attractive Blue Alicorn mare in front of him, who in return blushed as she had done earlier in the night.
"So she likes that…nice."
Princess Luna then used her magic to open the door which produced a blue haze and magic hum. It sounded just like it had in the show, and that made Konrad say to himself,
"Cool."
The door closed and Konrad found himself staring at a happy Apple Bloom, who was sporting a smile that only a pony could.
"What's so cool Konrad?"
Konrad smiled at the filly in his arms and tried to come up with a good explanation to her question.
"Oh well…you see Apple Bloom, humans can't do magic, and we know it exists but…we've…I have never seen it. So to see Princess Luna use magic is cool in my mind because it's not the norm."
Apple Bloom gave off a confused look and asked Konrad,
"But if you know it exists, how can you not have seen it? Ah don't understand."
"Well…it's complicated Apple Bloom. Humans might not have been able to perform magic but there were things that defied reality and whenever that happened, we simply called it magic. Sometimes we go on faith that things exist and when we see it happen before our eyes, it's kinda…well cool is all I can say. Do you understand?"
"You mean like about humans being a myth?"
That personally stuck Konrad the wrong way and it was a reminder that he was uniquely along in this world, that is if it really was his world. To see fictional characters to as if they were real and be told that he was a myth when in his time they were referred to as a myth was odd and scary at the same time. Not to mention it made him feel that he was the myth and not them, something that was jarring to say the least.
"I, uh…yeah…we'll go with that."
"Do you miss being home?" asked Apple Bloom.
And that made his experience in Equestria not only more awkward, but painful. He was away from home, away from his own kind, and away from his family.
"Almost like Apple Bloom…I can't believe I'm saying this…but I want to go home too."
"Yes Apple Bloom…I do…but I'm here and there's nothing I can do about it but be your friend and take care of you. I'd miss you if I had to leave you know that right?"
Apple Bloom gave him a big hug and said,
"Ah'd miss you too Konrad! Ah can't believe Ah met a human and got to have you as a friend!"
Konrad returned the hug and said,
"I can't believe I got to be your friend too Apple Bloom. I'm really happy that I met you."
Neither of them said anything as they hugged each other, enjoying the wonderful hug they shared with each other. Konrad knew it wouldn't last forever, but at least he got to hug the real Apple Bloom. He knew she was cute ever since he saw her in the first episode and he had always wished that he would get to meet her later on when he saw the show. Laws of reality aside, this was the best night ever! Aside from Apple Bloom, Princess Luna, Ruby and him dying of course.
"And I can't believe that Princess Luna was able to come into mah dream and help me find you!"
That instantly got Konrad's attention as he thought to himself,
"Whoa! Wait a minute…did she say Princess Luna came INTO her dreams?"
"Uhhh…could you repeat that again Apple Bloom?"
"Princess Luna came into mah dream and said that Ah can find you if Ah tried hard enough. She can go into another ponies dreams! Ah never knew she could do that!"
"And neither did I…damn it! Was this something in season 3?! If that wasn't a fake Princess Luna, then that must have been…oh shit…"
Konrad's eyes widened at the now apparent fact that the Luna he teased was not a figment of Apple Bloom's imagination but actually the real Princess Luna herself! His own face paled white as it had did when face with the possibility of being lassoed by Apple Jack herself, being hit by Blood Clop and the apparent fact that he insulted Princess who not only could raise the moon, but enter dreams as well.
"OH FUCK! WHAT DID I DO!?"
"Konrad? Are you okay?"
Konrad was in fact not okay, as telling Apple Bloom that Princess Luna had to pee in front of her bad enough, but telling her and Ruby of his decision was going to be even more awkward.
"I really need to lay off the trolling."
"I uh…yeah, I'm fine Apple Bloom. I was just thinking about something."
"Oh like what?"
"Konrad, it's time for you to wake up. Ruby really needs you and you have to fulfill your promises that you have sworn."
"But what about Apple Bloom and Princess Luna!?"
"You got them home remember? They will be fine and you've got to see more than any brony could imagine, but the real trial is still ahead and you need to prepare yourself for the biggest fight of your life. I will no longer be with you when you wake up and whatever happens know that we will watch over you. Should you perish doing the right thing, know that Apple Bloom will always remember you and so will Princess Luna. You are a good person indeed."
"WHAT?! I don't understand! No I want to stay with Apple Bloom! I have to tell Princess Luna! I have a lot to tell all of them including Ruby! I didn't even get to go to Sugarcube Corner!"
"I'm sorry Konrad. You've only got a few seconds before you wake up, so tell Apple Bloom what you want to say."
Konrad hated this final hour crap, but he couldn't help shake the feeling that this might be his very own final hour. He didn't even get to go to his favorite restaurant in Raccoon City before he left, he didn't get to meet the S.T.A.R.S. members before he left, and he didn't even get to say goodbye to his own family. At least he had Apple Bloom, his true friend and honorary little sister, whom he would swear to guard like a Big Daddy, to say good bye to and tell his potentially last words too.
"Apple Bloom, I want you to listen very carefully…I'm about to leave and there's nothing I can do about it and neither can you."
Apple Bloom recoiled in fear and said,
"WHAT?!"
Her expression was very confused and in extreme disbelief at his statement. It pained Konrad for what he was about to say.
"I'm going to wake up Apple Bloom and I might not see you again. I don't want to leave you but I have too…you see Ruby needs my help and I promised to help her. I can't leave her behind, and she needs me. I am very happy to have met you Apple Bloom, you really are a good girl and I never want to see you unhappy ever again. I can tell you right now that you are already home, and that although you might be dreaming, you are surrounded by those that care about you. Your brother and sister, who I have no doubt, love you very much will be with and will always, be with you... When you awake, whether you see me again or not, be with your family, love them, and have fun with your friends. You only got one life, so make it a good one. And be a good friend to Princess Luna, she needs one. Do you understand?"
Apple Bloom went into her sad bloom face and started to sniff with her eyes tearing up. It pained Konrad to see Apple Bloom in sad state, but he had to say everything he wanted to before we left and potentially for good.
"B-b-but…why do you have to go?!" asked Apple Bloom/
"Oh god…no sad Bloom face please!"
"I already told you Apple Bloom. I have to go. Please tell Princess Luna that I had made my decision and that if I knew I was running out of time, I would have told her right then and there. If I don't see you or her again, I will miss both of you. Take care Apple Bloom and stay a good filly."
"It's time Konrad. You need to wake up now. Ruby needs you."
Konrad looked into her eyes hugged her as firmly and gently as he could. In an instant, everything became black as he had seen it before. There was no more Apple Bloom, his truck or Princess Luna. There was only nothing but the sound of Apple Bloom screaming his name as it echoed.
"K-K-KONRAD!"
"Bye Apple Bloom…I will miss you."
"Sorry about that Konrad, but it's time for you to fulfill your part and keep your promise. I won't be able to stay with you anymore. I hope you'll do everything you can to be a better person and remember the lessons the show thought you…friendship really is magic."
"OH NO YOU DON'T ASSHOLE! I'M TIRED OF YOUR CRYPTIC SHIT! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU ANYWAY! WHY AM I IN A CARTOON!?"
"Oh my little brony…all I can say is…kick some plot!"
And Konrad could no longer hear the voice that was known as Ian, but rather fell the sensation of leaning against a wall…a wooden wall to be exact. Everything was black still, and whether that was because he was still asleep or because it was just plain dark, he didn't know.
"No…my eyes are open…it's just plain dark in here and where the fuck am I?"
Konrad did his best to remember what had happened before he saw Princess Luna and Apple Bloom in the little filly's dream. He remembered seeing Blood Clop smile before bucking him in the forehead. Konrad instantly felt the pain become more pronounced as he became more aware of his surroundings. It was dark, very dark, and he couldn't even see his hand in front of him. He place his fingers on his forehead to try and ease the pain, but unfortunately it did nothing.
"Damn…a pony's bucking still hurts like a horses…could have been worse though, it could have been a full size horse…what is that damn smell? And my head!"
"Shit! My goddamn head hurts like hell!"
"You swear like a dirty vagabond…I do not approve of this." Said a voice that was extremely creepy.
Konrad went into alert mode and instantly fumbled in the dark for his SVD, or Makarov, or really anything for that matter. The pitter patter of his fingers touching his body was loud and it gave away for all of Equestria to hear how desperate he was. Unfortunately he didn't find anything to defend himself with.
"Uh…shit."
"You swear again…I cannot see what Ruby likes about you."
"Ruby?! Who the fuck could this be?"
Konrad's eyes became more focused as he had learned to do in survival training. He could see a few boxes around him and the wooden floor board underneath him. There was a few traces of blood smeared around as if a blank or Blood Hoof had been here. It was strange really, as most of the Blanks and Blood Hooves that he had seen all night didn't really bleed a whole lot when they walked. One thing was for sure, there was somepony in the room with him, amongst all the boxes and stale…no rotting air that he was breathing.
"Think, Konrad, think! Where the fuck could I be?! If I'm not dead, but still in Sunny Town, where would they hold me prisoner? Could be Roneo's house like they held…no…OH FUCK NO!"
"Do you have no tongue to speak?! Answer me human boy!"
"Hey! I'm 24 years old! I'm not a damn boy!"
The room was silent for few seconds and Konrad regretted swearing to the voice in question. He wasn't quite sure who it could be, as all of the Blanks and Blood Hooves knew who he was already, but why would they just not kill him when Blood Clop knocked him out? And more importantly, who would they put him in the room with? Konrad got his answer alright, in the form of a pair of glowing red eyes coming into view with a strange squishy noise plopping on the ground. It almost sounded like a noise would hear in a scary movie only, except he was IN the scary movie itself, or rather a game.
Konrad's eyes widened at the noise and the sight of the glowing red eyes coming closer and closer, until it was just a few feet in front of him, staring, no glaring at him with scrutiny and anger. It wasn't a Blood Hoof, but a blank, one of the original characters in the Story of the Blank game. This one was very unique as she looked like she had on Deviant Art and other google images, all of which were creepy beyond belief.
And yet, none of them did any justice to the real portrayal of this Blank. She was none other than Ruby's mother herself, she was…
"Mitta…oh…shit!"
The pair of eyes glowed bright but with just a darker form of red. The Blank known as Mitta got even closer with a disgusting squishy noise being made and trail of blood streaking behind her. The sight of her was absolutely horrible as she had only one hoof on her back leg. The rest appeared to have been ripped or eaten off and why that was Konrad had no clue but it was scary as hell, and it would likely scare him for life.
"So you know my name and have the gall to not properly introduce yourself?! I do not like this at all you insolent human! Tell me, how do you know my daughter and how did she find you!? You will answer me…NOW!"
"SSSHHHHIIIIIITTTTT!"
And that was all Konrad could think of as he was staring Ruby's mother right in the face, with her rotten coat, bloody hoofless legs, and glare that could probably make a full grown man cry. He was now face to face with his potential mother in law, or monster in law, and he was doing his best to not piss himself.