//------------------------------// // Chapter 17 // Story: Temple of the Stars // by OrphiusOlyandra //------------------------------// I managed to get to sleep, and I wasn’t bothered by any nightmares. Given how restless I’d been feeling, I was surprised when I saw the clock said it was almost midday. “Fuck...” I muttered as I rubbed grit from my eye. “Trix, wake up we should...” I looked across and found her gone. With a sigh I got out of bed and went to the bathroom. A toilet stop and shower later, I was on my way down stairs. I also noticed mum had cleaned my brown cloak. Good, that thing was getting nasty. I didn’t put it on yet and walked down stairs to find mum and Trixie chatting in the living room. “Morning, Trix.” I looked across the room. “Mum.” I nodded at her. “Why’d you let me sleep in so late?” I asked Trixie. “Because you looked adorable,” she replied with a wink. “Your mother has been sharing some very interesting stories with Trixie.” I groaned. “Like what?” I remembered some of the things me and Grace got up to. There were a fair few things there that’d be embarrassing enough for Trixie to rib me. I glared at mum, “What did you tell her?” “Well your mother told Trixie of the time you tried to get out of cooking practice by hiding in the garden shed, and Grace dobbed you in, so you tackled him and ripped open the manure bags.” I grimaced. “The part Trixie likes, is it got you out of cooking practice the first time, so you tried to coat yourself in it again, and you kept doing that so your mother started having to hide the manure.” I rolled my eyes. “I was six.” “Trixie wonders why it had to be manure. Couldn’t you have just rolled in mud or something?” “I just didn’t think of it, alright?” I interrupted. “I was cub, what do you want from me?” “And all those other times? Like when you were twelve and decided to-” “Mum!” I shouted and turned to her. “Please don’t tell me you told her about that.” “That and more.” “Look, it’s not my fault the girls in my class were complete bitches.” I crossed my arms. “Yeah, I could’ve found a better way to get even, and yeah I should've planned it out so I didn’t leave paw prints right to my hiding place, but come on! I was young and dumb. I’m sure you did retarded things when you were a foal.” “Nope.” Once more with that smug grin. “And you still do retarded things.” “Like what, huh?” I jabbed a claw at her. “What dumb thing have I done lately?” “Like dating an arrogant mare like Trixie.” Out the corner of my eye, I could see mother wince slightly at that, but she didn’t say anything. “Hey, you came onto me.” I smirked. “I think you’re the idiot who chased after me.” “You’re the idiot that agreed.” “Nah, you can’t turn this around like that. You asked first. You made a move on me. I say you’re the shithead who made the mistake.” “Gilda!” snapped mother making Trixie laugh. I sat back into my seat. “Sorry,” I mumbled. “So,” my mum began and I noticed the pointed edge to her voice. “How did you two meet?” I glanced over at Trixie. There was no fucking way we were telling the truth, right? “At one of my shows, she was one of my impromptu helpers. Afterwards, when Trixie went to the bar, she saw Gilda and we hit it off. She was looking for a job so I offered to hire her as a stagehand,” replied Trixie. “Really? I wasn’t aware anyone could ‘hit it off’ with Gilda.” She glanced at me. “She only ever seemed to get along with Graciano and Elder Calisto.” I rolled my eyes. “Hey, I had some friends.” But they both ignored me. Trixie glared at me. “As Trixie was saying, when we hit it off, she means we literally hit it off. Started a bar brawl of the likes you have never seen.” My mother chuckled, but I knew it was a mask for the uncertainty she felt about me and Trixie. “That I could believe. So, why did you hire her if she started a brawl? Surely that’s not an attractive quality in a stage hand.” “A mare travelling alone on the road? Someone else who can put up a fight if things get dangerous is always useful.” “Really?” Mother glanced at me, and I could see she wasn’t happy that I could fight. “When did you ask her out?” She smiled at Trixie. “What was it that attracted you to her in the first place? My daughter is far from...” She paused, thinking of a nice way to say I’m piss ugly. “She gets her father’s looks,” she finished nicely. “Well looks aren’t everything,” chuckled Trixie. “Plus, she would look absolutely delicious in a suit.” “Holy shit, we’re already back to that,” I growled. “It’s true!” Both hooves were thrown into the air as Trixie leaned back in her chair. “You’re not beautiful, but you are very handsome.” “She’s right, Gilda.” Mother smiled at me. “I always told you, if you tried you could attract a nice boy. You do have your own appeal.” I snorted and rolled my eyes. “Yeah, well that wasn’t ever what I was really worried about.” “And she has already attracted someone,” came Trixie’s smug reply. “Of course, dear.” My mother smiled at Trixie reassuringly. “I was just trying to tell her she should take some more time to worry about her appearance. She’s not a hopeless cause. I’m sure you’d like to see her dress herself a little nicer.” “Oh yes.” I suddenly found a very heated look directed at me. “Trixie has some ideas of what would look absolutely lovely on Gilda.” “Actually,” my mother interrupted. “I have a wonderful suit she could try on. It was her father’s, but well, he passed away and never had the chance to use it. I shipped it from this wonderful store in Equestria that’s making all sorts of waves in fashion. Perhaps you’d like to see her in it? Her shoulders are only slightly smaller than her father’s, but if it’s too much we could easily have it refitted in town.” “Sorry mom, bu-” I sighed as Trixie turned those eyes on me. “Fine.” My mother clapped her claws together in delight. “Excellent. Bring her upstairs, and I’ll get it out.” “Bring me upstairs? I’m not a fucking mannequin.” I wasn’t surprised when they completely ignored me other than a sharp glare for swearing. Just a couple of agonizing minutes later, and I was dressed up in front of a mirror. “I look like a bloody penguin.” I muttered as I stared at my reflection. At least they hadn’t tried to put makeup on me or something. “Oh. My. Goddess.” I blinked and looked over at Trixie who was practically drooling. “You’re so fucking hot right now.” My mother coughed politely. “Yes, she is, but no swearing inside please.” “But it’s true!” Trixie pointed a hoof at me. “Can you think of a way to describe how good she looks without swearing?” My mother glanced at me, then back at Trixie. “Yes, she looks even better than I expected, but maybe you could find another way to express just how much you appreciate her appearance?” “If you leave the room, Trixie will do just that. And without words as well.” She began advancing like a predator stalking its prey. “Ohhh’kay!” I backed away and began undoing the jacket. “I think it’s about time we get this off me.” “Agreed,” said mother. “Trixie, could you be a dear and grab me a cup of hard liquor? It’s in the large cabinet in the living room.” “Yeah, and bring me the bottle while you're at it.” I muttered as I undid the tie. Or tried to, anyway. Seriously, how the fuck do you do these things? I yanked at it a few times. “Okay, somebody get this thing off me.” “Please dear, not so rough.” Mom began undoing the tie for me. “It’s simple, see? Though your father couldn’t tie ties either.” “Thanks,” I muttered as I undid the shirt. Out the corner of my eye, I noticed Trixie watching me, and I couldn’t help but swallow at the look she was giving as I slipped it off. “Trix, the drinks?” I asked. “Fine.” She rolled her eyes and walked out the door, no doubt deliberately swaying her hips. I caught the look mother was giving Trixie, and she gave it to me too. “How long did you say you two were dating?” “Two weeks.” I replied. “Well... She certainly doesn’t seem un-eager.” My mother commented idly. “Has she always been so...?” “Ready to screw?” I finished for her and she glared at me. “Pretty much, but it’s only gotten worse lately.” “Well, have you stopped to ask why?” My mother asked. “Even if she’s attracted to you so heavily, that’s oddly soon to be so... frisky.” I shrugged, and opened my beak just as Trixie came back in with the drinks. I shut it and turned to her. “Thanks, Trix.” Instead of replying, she poured a cup and then immediately downed it before passing it over to me. “Trixie needed that.” I hesitated before I drank some too. “Why?” I asked her when I took the cup away from my bottle. “Because she hasn’t seen such good alcohol in a long time,” she replied. “Ah... well I’m not really a fan of wine.” I took another sip. “This is pretty good though.” “Yes.” My mum stepped over. “It came from Elder Calisto’s old cabinet.” I choked and spat it out. “You stole from him!” I growled at her. She blinked. “No... actually, he left it to our family.” I stared at her in surprise. “Really?” My mother nodded. “Yes, after we learned he’d died. I was surprised when most of his possessions were divided between you and a few of the other girls from around town. Though, most of them had moved on or were living elsewhere, so their families got their shares.” I turned away from both of them and blinked tears from my eyes as I took another sip of Calisto’s booze. It tasted like ash to me now. I put the bottle on the table and made sure my eyes were clear before I turned around to face Trixie and mom. “We should be going.” I smiled at the unicorn. “It’s been nice but we need to get on the road again.” “We do, but...” Trixie touched my arm, looking up with me with concerned eyes. “We can stay here a while longer if you prefer.” “Nah, it’s fine.” I looked down at her. “It’s probably best if we leave mum before anything crazy happens to us.” “You sure?” I snorted. “Between the embarrassing stories, the bad memories, and the chance that zombies invade just ‘cause we’re in the room? Yeah, I’m pretty sure.” “Alright.” To my surprise, Trixie walked on over and kissed my mother on the cheek before whispering something in her ear. It was clear that she was caught between surprise, anger, and happiness, but after a couple seconds of hushed whispering, Trixie walked away with a very red face. “What was that about?” I asked as we stepped out of the room, mom following behind us. “A promise Trixie intends to keep and some... information Trixie did not need to hear. Ever.” I shuddered. “She has no bloody shame. Please tell me she didn’t mention her toys.” “Worse.” A shudder ran through her body. “Far worse.” Oh goddesses. What could be worse? Mum stepped forward with a box in her claws. “Here’s the suit, if you’d like to take it with you.” She winked at Trixie. Trixie immediately wrapped it up in her magic. “Thank you for everything.” “You’re welcome dear.” She gave a hesitant glance between me and Trixie. “Take care of her, please.” I wasn’t sure if she was talking to me or Trixie. So I just nodded while Trixie said, “Actually... um...” She licked her dry lips, while rubbing the back of one fore hoof. “Trixie was wondering if she could, er... get your blessing in dating your daughter...” Mother froze, before she caught my look and smiled at Trixie pleasantly. “Of course dear. As long as you can promise me an invitation to the wedding and grand cubs, I’d love to have you as my daughter.” “Thank you...” To my surprise there were tears in Trixie’s eyes. “Trixie promises to take care of your daughter, though she may need to rough Gilda up a bit to get some manners to stick.” Mother chuckled. “I already tried that myself.” She sighed. “Short of actually roughing her up, nothing seemed to work. Hopefully you’ll have better luck than I did. And Gilda, remember what I said.” I blinked as I stared at her. “About what?” Mom’s eyes flicked over to Trixie. “Before, when I was helping you with your tie.” “Oh,” I nodded, “Right. I’ll keep that in mind.” Trixie looked at me curiously, but I just acted like it was nothing important. “Anyway, mum. It’s been… not really fun, but-” A knock sounded at the door, and I closed my beak as mum went to answer it. She opened it, and I immediately backed to the side when I caught a glimpse of a Kingdom soldier’s formal attire. Apparently he didn’t see me. “Adelina of the Great Scars?” He asked in a formal voice with a just appropriate hint of sadness. My mother nodded, and he continued, “I’m afraid I have some bad news. Your son, Graciano, has gone missing. At this stage, we cannot account for his whereabouts, and the strongest likelihood is he’s dead, or turned to treason.” I stood there frozen in shock, and stared at my mother as she stared at the soldier. “W-w-what?” The soldier sighed sadly. “I’m sorry Ma’am. Is there anything I can do?” She blinked and her beak trembled. “N-no. I-I-I... Please just go.” “The official statement is in here Ma’am,” an envelope was passed to my mother. “I’m sorry for your loss.” The door closed in his face, and my mother stared blankly at the letter. After a moment, I snatched it and tore it open. I scanned the letter quickly, reading it to make sure it was official. I checked it over thoroughly, and when I couldn’t find anything that suggested it wasn’t real, I read it again. After a moment I dropped it to the ground, and fell to my haunches trying to process the situation. “Grace is gone...” I said, and I sounded like I’d just been slapped. “The letter’s real...” “Gilda...” Trixie laid a hoof on my shoulder. “He’s...” My lower beak trembled. “He can’t be dead.” I looked at my mother, who was staring at me with tears in her eyes. “I’m sorry,” whispered Trixie as she hugged me from behind. “But they didn’t say he was dead, merely he had gone missing.” I frowned. “You’re right.” I stood up and quickly hugged mum. “He’s gonna be fine.” I promised her before I snatched up my equipment and pushed the front door open. “Wait up!” Trixie was immediately by my side. “Trixie hopes you weren’t planning on leaving her behind.” I glanced back at her. “You’ll be safer here, and I can travel faster by myself.” Probably not the nicest thing to say, but at the moment I was thinking of Grace and Grace only. “Trixie doesn’t care, she is coming with you and that is final.” She smirked up at me. “Plus, Trixie doubts you can fly faster than a teleport.” I hesitated. “Can you really teleport both of us to Aviana? What about your horn?” Her eyes narrowed. “Trixie doesn’t wish to speak about her horn. Perhaps not the entire way there, but short hops are easy enough and will increase travel speed significantly.” I hesitated again, before I shook my head. “No, you’ll be safer here, and I’m not gonna kill you with magic for my brother. I can get to Aviana on my own in a day or two.” “But speed is of the essence,” she said as she kept pace with my running. No. If Grace was dead, then I was not gonna let Trixie die too. “Sorry, Trix.” With a flap of my wings I took to the air. There was a flash of magic and I found myself before Trixie again. Before I had a chance to fly off again, her magic locked my wings in place. “Did you really think that would work? Trixie is going whether you like it or not.” I growled at her. “Damn it, Trix. I’m not getting you killed for my brother.” “And if you think Trixie is going to let you rush off and get yourself killed, you’ve got another thing coming,” she snapped. “I’m not gonna kill myself!” I shouted at her. “You were the one that was about to hang herself!” I pointed a talon at her. Her eyes narrowed dangerously. “And you were the one who decided to rush off with Nightmare Moon into a changeling hive without a second thought, earning you that scar on your chest. You could have died.” “That’s not fair, Trix! You were hurt, and bleeding! I didn’t know what was gonna be in the mine, or whether we could face it or not! I was trying to keep you safe, and apparently it worked, except for the part where you decided to hang yourself just to guilt trip me or some shit!” I shouted and jabbed a claw into her chest. “You’re not coming with me! And you’re not hanging yourself either!” “You think you can order the Great and Powerful Trixie around!?” All of my limbs were encased in magic. “Very well, Trixie will just have to drag you there herself.” I touched my magic, and felt the shadows screaming my name. “Let me go Trix.” I growled. “You’re not coming with me.” “No, she’s not. The Great and Powerful Trixie never follows.” She began running along the dirt road while I floated behind her in her magic. “Trixie is not coming with you, instead you’re coming with Trixie.” I snarled, and the shadows snatched Trixie’s hoof, sending her sprawling with a shriek. Her magic let go, and I landed with a smooth slide. I turned to Trixie, and the shadows bound her hooves together. “I’m not letting you die!” I shouted and snatched my package up from where it had fallen. “Why do you think Trixie is so insistent on going? She doesn’t want you to die either!” she yelled at me as she blasted the chains off her hooves. “You don’t get it, do you?” I turned to her. “I’m a grunt, damn it. A stupid blunt instrument that someone else makes all the decisions for! I can kill shit, and that’s it. Kill and kill, until I die and they need to find a better killer! It doesn’t matter if I die.” I fastened my knife belts. “You’ll get over me, and if you can’t then...” I grit my beak. “You’ll get over me, and find someone better.” “No!” Once more I was grounded by her magic. “Why don’t you get it? I want you. You!” Her lips pressed against my beak. “And you’re not a grunt. Who was the one giving directions while we were on the run? Who came up with the plans? Who kept Trixie safe? You’re more than a killer and more than a grunt. And Trixie loves you so shut up already.” I tried to pull away from her kiss, but I couldn’t do anything and she kept at it till I stopped struggling. When she pulled away, I didn’t feel any differently about this. I was just reminded of the goddess awful dream I’d had, and Trixie begging me with her eyes like she was now. “I got us caught. I dropped you in an outhouse, and my plans suck. Yeah, I’m not exactly a grunt, I was talking out my ass but it’s still true damn it! I’m not important, and the only time my life ever meant anything was when I was saving you!” I heaved as hard as I could, and with a pop her magic shattered as I reared up. I panted as I stared at her. “I’m not going to be the one that kills you.” I fell to all fours again and turned away. “You’re important to me!” Trixie walked over and leaned against me. “And Trixie doesn’t want to lose you. She- I’m afraid you’ll end up in a situation you can’t handle and I just want to help. Please, Gilda. And you know you’d never hurt me.” I shivered at that last one. The scariest thing about that dream was... Goddesses... the most fucking terrifying thing about it was that I knew it could have happened. I was just few botched runes away from being that pet... Just some lines on the floor from being ‘Aurry.’ I didn’t answer her, for a moment. “I already have, Trixie,” I finally said as I looked back at her. “Shut up,” she hissed as she moved in for another kiss. “Just shut up and let Trixie come along. You know you could use a great and powerful ally.” I pulled back from her kiss, the pleading in her eyes reminded me too much of my dream. “Please don’t beg.” I looked at her. “Please, never ever do that again.” A playful grin appeared on her face. “Even in bed?” I shivered again. Goddesses, I hope I get over that dream soon. “No.” Black silk pillows flashed through my mind and I took another step away from Trixie. “Definitely no.” A frowned appeared on Trixie’s face. “There’s something you’re not telling Trixie, isn’t there?” “You can come,” I told her. Partly to change the topic, and partly because I couldn’t leave her behind now. “Are you really sure you can teleport us most of the way to Aviana?” “Of course. Trixie is a mare of multiple talents, and travelling cross country is something she is intimately familiar with.” She gave me that cocky grin of hers. “Now stand back, and be prepared to the dazzled by the greatest unicorn who has ever lived!” “So why didn’t you teleport us when we were on the run?” I asked her. “Or... heck, I can think of a few times that it would’ve been handy.” “Um...” Trixie looked nervous before she straightened up. “Are you questioning the Great and Powerful Trixie?” I stared at her. “Trixie, was the basement the first time you ever teleported?” “Of course not! Trixie could teleport at the age of three.” I raised my eyebrow. “Uh huh.” “It’s true,” she huffed. “Uh huh,” I repeated. She glared at me. “Well?” I waved a claw at her with a little smirk. “We’re waiting on you, Great and Powerful.” I doubt I was getting any hugs tonight. “Prepare to be amazed!” Right back into the showpony attitude. “Watch as the Great and Powerful Trixie shows this neighsayer how honored she should be for having a marefriend as great as Trixie!” Her horn began glowing, enveloping both of us in her magic. It was weird to say the least; kinda awkward with her magic feeling every inch of my body as though I was being groped, and considering this is Trixie, it was probably intentional. A second later, the world around me was washed away like paint leaving behind what seemed to be deeper into the pinewood forest, further along the path towards the capital. “Trix... do you know where we’re going?” I asked her with my head tilted. “Can’t you only teleport to places you know? Do you know the way to Aviana from here?” “Of course. Did you forget the time Trixie teleported out of the cellar?” “Then... when were you in the mountains? How do you know your way around the Gryphon Kingdom... and... why the fuck were you ever in the remote parts of the mountains?” “That doesn’t matter,” replied Trixie. “But are we going to Aviana or not?” “Uh... okay?” I frowned at her. “Is there something you’re not telling me?” “Is there something you’re not telling Trixie,” she immediately countered. “Like what?” I asked, feeling a little defensive. “You know what,” she replied with narrowed eyes. I shifted, and realized that Trixie was going to have to be a bit more specific. I mean, there was my messed up magic, my messed up dream, the fact I was almost possessed by Nightmare, the sheer number of brain-deads I’d killed in White Peak, and the suicidal edge my fighting had taken recently. Shit. I’m like, the worst girlfriend ever. “Uh... not sure what you mean.” I told her, though to me it sounded pretty... make that really, really forced. Especially with the nervous chuckle and scratching the back of my neck. For her part, Trixie narrowed her eyes and she took a single step towards me. “So!” I clapped my hands together and gave her the biggest smile I could. “Are we going to Aviana or what?” “Gilda...” I knew that tone. It was the same tone my mother and Calisto used whenever I was about to get a talking and those talks never ended up pretty. Well, I wasn’t going down without a fight. “So, what’s with your horn?” I asked. “How did it get cracked?” “If Trixie tells you that, you promise to tell Trixie what’s bothering you.” I winced. “I was hoping you’d just tell me to fuck off and drop it.” I glanced up at Trixie. “I respect your privacy, you know.” I felt a little smug, but I didn’t let that through as I laid on the guilt trip. “I don’t expect you to tell me all your secrets.” “And Trixie respects yours,” she replied happily, “so tell Trixie what’s bothering you already.” I decided to settle for the least bothering secret. “My magic is messed up.” I told her, and acted down about it. “Whatever it was Nightmare did to me... I feel different, and I’m worried that it might change me.” Not a word was a lie. Trixie frowned at me. “Is that how you managed to trip Trixie up earlier? She thought her magic hadn’t immobilized you properly, but if you’re magic’s changed, perhaps that’s it?” Her frown deepened. “Is it even possible for magic to change?” I shrugged. “You’re the unicorn. But... yeah. That was how I tripped you up earlier.” I frowned and looked away. “That was why I wanted you to teach me about magic so I could... figure out how this new shit works.” “You should have just said so! Trixie would be happy to teach you.” It was weird how little things like this managed to cheer her up so much. “Do you think unicorns can utilize it? Perhaps Trixie will be able to learn something and harness this new magic for herself. Ha! Imagine that purple unicorn’s face when Trixie comes back more powerful than ever. Take that Twilight Sparkle!” I shifted. “I don’t think so Trix. I... think I’m... I think I might be a nightkin now.” I frowned. “At least, I think that’s what Nightmare said. I was too busy having my insides shredded to really remember. But uh... when we were in the mines she offered to make me like Slight. As in... give me her powers and stuff. I told her no, but...” I shrugged. “You were there. You don't need me to tell you what she did.” “Oh...” She pawed at the ground nervously. “Well Trixie will help however she can.” I nodded, then I remembered the other part of the deal. “So what about your horn?” She winced. “Perhaps we should discuss this when we make camp tonight?” I frowned, but shrugged. “Alright. You can tell me when you’re ready.” “Thank you.” A light peck was left on the corner of my beak. “Now let us go!” The sun was barely setting when I decided we should make camp. Trixie was bathed in sweat, and panting like a dog. “That’s it.” I said and helped prop her up. “You’ve done enough for today.” “We can... still... r-run...” she panted out after a full minute. I stared at her, before I stepped away. “Alright then. Go for it.” I paused in front of her and waved a claw ahead of us. She didn’t even manage a single step before she collapsed on the ground. “Great run.” I told her dryly. “We should do that more often.” I bent down and helped her up before I took us towards the side of the road. “Don’t even think about mentioning this to anyone else,” said Trixie. I laughed. “Yeah... no.” I let her down gently. “This is something that’s biting you in the ass down the line.” I turned around and started to set up camp. Not that there was much to set up. We weren’t lighting a fire- for once Trixie didn’t argue about that- and we only needed one tent. By then, Trixie was starting to feel better, so I helped her move into the tent, and mixed some fruits and vegetables into a roadside salad for her. “You sure you’re okay?” I asked. “You look totally fucked.” To my surprise, she glared up at me. “And whose fault was that?” “You could've stayed behind.” Frowning, I stood up and hopped out of the tent. “I didn’t force you to come.” “Trixie knows.” With a sigh, she patted the spot next to her. “Now get your sexy flank down here.” I glanced back at her. “No. You need your rest. Get some sleep, and I’ll keep watch tonight.” “Fine,” she pouted. My eyes narrowed and I sat down. “Actually, that was something I wanted to ask you about. What’s with the completely retarded amount of flirting you do?” “Um... what?” She looked up at me quizzically. “I mean... You’re way too frisky for a mare that’s only two weeks into a relationship.” “T-Trixie is not! Are you calling her a slut?” Oh, fuck. I quickly backpedaled, trying to come up with a nice way of putting it. “I mean... uh... that is... um...” I was drawing a complete blank. “How’s the salad?” I smiled at her, changing topics about as smoothly as a train crash. “You are not getting out of that so easily,” she growled. “What did you mean?” “Um... don’t worry about it.” I sat down and tried to avoid her gaze. “Are you saying Trixie’s easy? That she’ll fuck with the first sentient she so much as likes?” With each word spoken, she became more and more hostile. “No!” I shouted. “Fuck no! What I’m saying is... crap. The amount of moves you make on me is freaking me out, alright? Fuck. You’re half dead from using magic all day, and you’re trying to get me next to you. When I was in that suit, it was like a manticore staring at a bleeding deer. My mum was in the room, and I still thought you were gonna start fucking me right there.” I sighed and put my head in my claws. “Forget I said anything. I’ll just get over it.” To my surprise, Trixie merely tilted her head to the side. “Is it wrong that Trixie finds you desirable?” “No,” I told her feeling a little confused by that reaction. “I like you, and I’d certainly enjoy a good fuck... but we’re two weeks in Trixie. You just don’t move that fast, unless you want a one night stand or something. Hell, most parts of the world still wait till your married before sex. I’m not a prude but... I’m kinda worried by how damn sexual you’re making everything.” “Oh...” Her ears drooped. “Does this mean we’re breaking up?” I blinked in confusion. “...No? Why would it mean that?” “But... isn’t that the basis of all relationships?” she asked clearly confused. I frowned at her. “No.” I said flatly. “Oh. Trixie thought sex was the central aspect of relationships and that without it, all relationships were doomed to failure.” I stared at her, a worried pit forming in my stomach. “What the fuck made you think that?” “Well my father was always coming home with females,” she replied with a shrug. “And it was the only time her parents weren’t fighting.” There was a pause as she thought it over. “Well... the only time they fought less.” I stared at her. “If I ever meet your dad, I’m gonna punch him in the face.” “Why?” she asked even more baffled than before. I stared at her for a second. “Because you were a fucking filly!” I shouted. “Fuck me dead, there’s no way you should have to know about your dad being a married whore when you’re six!” “Hey! Trixie loved her father. He might not have been the best father, but Trixie still loved him,” she snapped. I snorted. “At least my dad had the good grace to not be there when he was getting drunk as piss. I mean... shit. Did you actually see your dad with those mares?” “Yes,” she said without even blinking. “And dad never got drunk.” “Holy crap Trixie! Don’t you see how much is wrong with that?” I stared at her for a moment. “What? Did he fuck on the living room floor, or drag you upstairs to watch or something?” “Of course not!” At least she had the decency to look shocked by that. “Trixie merely stumbled in on occasion usually when dad forgot to lock the door, or when she came home early from schooling.” “Still a complete tool.” I spat. “Didn’t he abandon you and your mother or something?” “No!” She glared at me. “Why would you suggest such horrible things? Though after Trixie ran away, he did leave Freefall.” I shook my head. “Whatever. Dude was a tool. The point is, and I shouldn’t have to be the one to tell you this, but anyway, sex is not the be all and end all of a relationship.” I shifted my wings uncomfortably. “Yeah, attraction’s important, but you don’t need to be fucking or else everything is doomed. Goddesses damn it, Trixie. Did you really think I was gonna break up with you if we didn’t have sex sometime soon?” “Yes...? That was always how it worked with dad. They’d stop having sex and then the mare would no longer come around.” I facepalmed. “That’s because your dad was a slut, Trix.” “Enough!” Magic wrapped around my head, forcing me to stare her straight in the eyes. “We will get this straight right now, you will not insult my dad. Got that? Insult Freefall as much as you wish, but you will not insult my father!” Her magic was weak from exertion, so all it took was a jerk of my neck for it shatter. “Whatever. We don’t need to be sleeping with each other constantly for this to mean something, Trix. I mean, crap, me not wanting to screw every minute was not me trying to break up with yo, Trix.” “Oh... Well... still no insulting dad,” she eventually mumbled. I snorted. “So... what’s with hating your mother? I mean, you mentioned she was an alcoholic, right?” “An aggressive, angry alcoholic,” spat Trixie. “You know, the type that will beat up anyone who looked at her funny, or in Freefall’s case, anypony who so much as looked at her.” I shifted uncomfortably. Sounded a little like me... I didn’t even need to be drunk to be ready to beat someone shitless. My mind went to that bar in Aviana, and the guy I’d demolished because I thought he looked like an asshole. A tiny smirk touched my beak, but I quickly covered it. “To be honest, Trix. I’m an aggressive almost alcoholic that beats people up pretty often,” I squirmed, “Which makes me wonder what the fuck you’re doing with me.” “You’re wrong, you’d never hurt me,” she whispered before adding in a voice so small, I almost thought it was the wind, “You’ll protect Trixie...” “Of course I will.” I cringed at the pleading look in her eye, but ignored it for her sake. “I’d never hurt you.” I paused as I thought about Trixie’s statement. “So... your mother beat you?” I asked. Holy crap, and I thought my family was fucked up. Yeah, my dad was a douche and I never got along with my mum, ever... but holy fucking shit! What the fuck had to be going on in Trixie’s head?! All I got in reply was her tapping her horn. “Trixie used to be Great and Powerful. In fact, she still has one of the largest magic pools that she knows about, but with a cracked horn, there’s not much she can do.” Tears leaked down her cheek. “Trixie was destined for greatness.” I stared at her in shock. I swallowed before saying, “Your mother’s the one that cracked your horn?” “Drunken rage,” she replied with a shrug. “Trixie left after that. She was less thrown out and more ran away as though a dragon was on her tail.” I snorted and growled. “If I ever meet the bitch, I’ll feed her to a dragon. After I’m done shoving her legs through a rock crusher.” “Don’t. She’s not worth it. Trixie would rather you hold her at night than waste time on that piece of trash.” I smiled at her, and lay down next to Trixie again. “She’s probably worth a few cuts...” I mumbled as I wrapped a wing around her. Almost immediately she was snuggled into my side with no hint of letting me go free anytime soon and for once, she wasn’t stroking my chest or nuzzling my neck or anything. Instead, we were just snuggling like a good, normal couple. I walked through Ponyville, watching unconcerned as Twilight Sparkle was dragged out of her house. Her face was shoved into the dirt, and she screamed and begged as Nightkin ponies readied their blades to kill her. I rolled my eyes and looked away. Executions? Just kill her already. In the distance I could see a house that looked like it was made of gingerbread burning to the ground. Something about it made me... angry and hateful. I smiled. Good. Nightmare loved it when I was angry and hateful. I padded towards it with a spring in my step before I froze at the sounds of a loud crack behind me. Turning around, I saw the two Nightkin slump to the ground in pieces, as one half of them was teleported away, and the other wasn’t. Twilight Sparkle collapsed to the ground sobbing, blood coating her hooves as she desperately crawled out from under the front half of the ponies she’d killed. I walked over to her, and yanked her out from under the nightkin. “Get up.” I told her, and pulled her up. “Thank you.” She muttered as she unsteadily stood up. “We need to get out of here!” Twilight Sparkle said as she looked around. Then she turned around and saw me. With a scream she backed away. “Y-y-you’re her!” I rolled my eyes and padded towards her. “Just stand still.” “No!” She shouted and lowered her horn to aim at me. “You’ll never hurt anypony again!” She fired a blast of magic at me, but I melted into my own shadow and rose up out of hers. I grabbed her throat, and started to strangle. She kicked, and her horn started to glow with magic. My fist in her temple broke her concentration, and her aura died. Slowly her kicking started to stop. “Wait.” A voice that made me shiver with pleasure said from behind me. I stepped away and the purple unicorn fell to the ground gasping. I turned around and bowed to my Mistress. “My sister’s favorite student.” Nightmare approached and rolled Twilight Sparkle over with her hoof. I twitched to touch her and turn her attention to me, but she didn’t like it when I got pushy. So I stood there, waiting for her to turn those perfect eyes on me. Instead they stayed on Twilight, and I glared at the unicorn. “Where are your friends?” She asked with a smirk. “They’re dead. At least most of them are. Rainbow Dash, that frivolous White Unicorn whose skin will make a lovely dress.” I smiled at that. I loved it when Nightmare made use of my talents. “And Pinkie Pie...” Her wing danced over me and I shivered with delight as I snuggled up to her. She scratched my chin with her hoof, and my eyes rolled up with pleasure. “She was certainly singing by the time Aurry was done with her.” “-stop you.” Twilight choked out, and I frowned at her. How dare she say that to Nightmare! “Will you know?” Nightmare chuckled. “And here I was planning on having you join me.” “I’d never help you!” Twilight screamed and spat. I snarled and punched her in the face. How dare she spit at my mistress! I went to hit her again, but I was stopped by the most beautiful voice in the world. “Enough Aurry.” I looked back at her lovingly, but wilted when I caught the glare on her face. I slunk behind her, and watched as Nightmare leaned down to stare into Twilight’s eyes. “You know, Gilda said the same thing. She said no, and didn’t want my gift.” She twisted Twilight’s head towards me. “Now look at her. Happy, devoted... mine.” I beamed at Nightmare, but frowned at Twilight when I saw the pity in her eyes. “You can be like that.” Nightmare whispered as she nibbled on Twilight’s ear. “You can be happy too.” “No!” Twilight shouted and her horn glowed for a second before Nightmare cracked it with a flick of her hoof. The unicorn screamed in pain and whimpered. I smiled at that. No one defied my mistress. “I wasn’t giving you a choice.” Nightmare whispered, and with a pop moonflower nectar and salt appeared next to her. A knife floated from her sheath and she drew her own blood. “Maybe your other friends, that pegasus and that hillbilly, perhaps if they prove worthwhile, they can join you too.” When the runes were drawn, Nightmare grabbed Twilight face and rubbed her blood over Twilight’s lips and tongue. She tried to spit it out, but her lips were clamped shut by Nightmares magic. Finally, when everything was in place, “Aurry, give me the vial.” From my belt I took out what she asked for, and hoped for her to return my smile. I felt a little sad when she didn’t, but the way her tail whisked across my face made me feel a little better. Twilight choked and gagged on the chemicals, but had no choice but to swallow them as her lips were pulled shut again. I watched as Nightmare completed the ritual, and stepped away. The moonlight bathed over Twilight, and I watched as she slowly rose to her hooves. Just then, the runes spread their inky blackness and the unicorn was yanked into the air. I didn’t jerk awake this time. I opened my eyes fairly slowly, and noticed the moon still hanging in the sky. I looked around and realized it was late at night. I’d probably barely managed a full hour of sleep. “Mother fucker.” I muttered and lowered my head to my claws again. “Not again.” At least this dream wasn’t anywhere near as bad as the last one was. I didn’t even know Twilight Sparkle outside of the pictures in the papers and a party in Ponyville. I tried to get to sleep again, but it took me less than a second to realize that wasn’t happening anytime soon. I looked across at Trixie, trying to decide if she was too comfortable for me to move without waking her up. After a minute, of watching her sleep, I carefully extracted myself from her forehooves and gently tugged my wing out of her grip. I stood up, and padded away from her. I sat down, and enjoyed the feeling of the cool night air ruffling my feathers as I stared out at the silent night. I needed to get to sleep somehow, right? Maybe some exercise would tire me out or something. “Hm...” Trixie rolled over before her eyes slowly blinked open. “Gilda...?” “Yeah I’m here.” I reassured her. “Just couldn’t sleep. I’m not running away in the night or anything.” “Alright...” Her eyes drifted close again. “Any reason why you woke up? Going nocturnal on me?” “Uh... maybe?” I shrugged. “I mean, the name’s nightkin, right?” “True,” she replied with a yawn. “Restless?” I nodded. “It takes me ages to get to sleep these days, and when I do I wake up anyway. I feel heaps drowsy in the morning too, and I get really uncomfortable around midday. Itchy, sweaty...” I sighed to myself. “Fucking Nightmare.” To my surprise, she crawled over to me and sat down beside me, her blankets wrapped tightly around her body. “If you prefer we can travel from midnight to mid-morning then nap through midday and continue on? Sleep twice everyday...” I glanced over at her. “You’d do that? Wouldn’t that be like... heaps shitty on your internal clock?” “And this isn’t ‘heaps shitty on your internal clock’?” Her head rested on my shoulder. “This way, both our clocks can be slightly wrong.” I snorted. “Alright, but you’re way too tired to start tonight. Go back to sleep and I’ll... keep watch or something.” “Tomorrow then?” Another yawn followed by a kiss on my cheek. “Promise?” “Yeah, of course.” I gave her a nuzzle. “Get to sleep. Seriously, you look half dead.” I smirked at the massive ass bags under her eyes. I paused and frowned. “But if tomorrow is gonna be another day like today, then we’re not starting the new sleep time then either.” A playful smack landed on my shoulder. “Then you better not tire Trixie out. Set a slower pace and let Trixie do a bit more teleports.” I snorted and smirked at her. “If you can’t keep up with a slow walk, then maybe we should get you walking more.” After a second, I added jokingly. “Your flank’s looking less toned these days.” The jab that followed that comment was in no way playful. In fact, it hurt. “Trixie will have you know she is not getting fat!” “Feeling a little sensitive?” I teased and stepped out of her reach. “Maybe you should join me for my morning push ups and wing touches.” She opened her mouth to say something, only to immediately close it again. “Actually, you practice with your weapons in the morning, correct?” “Uh... yeah, why you actually want to join me?” “Trixie thinks it would be prudent. Magic will not always suffice and there are times it needs to be conserved. Perhaps you could teach Trixie how to handle a sword?” I paused, staring at her in surprise. “I’m not sure I like the idea of teaching you how to kill.” I said with a frown. “Plus, we don’t even have a sword.” “Trixie will be sticking by you no matter what. You can either teach her how to defend herself with a weapon, or Trixie can rely entirely on her magic.” A tender nuzzle. “Trixie just wishes to know how to disarm and disable opponents. She wants to defend herself.” I shifted. “You say that, but it’s easier to kill someone than it is to put them down safely. Are you sure you want me to teach you? I’m probably like... the worst teacher ever... Are you really sure you want to learn about this?” “Trixie has a large magic pool, but that does not mean it is infinite. I would be much more comfortable in the knowledge that Trixie could defend herself if her magic was running dangerously low, wouldn’t you?” she asked sweetly. “I’m not even sure I could teach a pony how to fight...” I mumbled, looking for excuses not to do this. I really don’t want to turn Trixie into someone like me. “Gilda...” Yet another nuzzle. “Don’t worry, if you don’t want to teach me, you don’t have to. It was just a suggestion and Trixie would never dream of making you do something you didn’t want to.” I sighed. “Nah, you’re right. I should just get over it. I mean... I won’t always be here, right? You’re right. I’ll teach you what I can.” This time, she poked me with her horn. Did she sharpen that thing in her spare time or something!? “You will be around as long as I say you’ll be around,” she said. “And I say you’ll be around forever so don’t go dying on me before that or Trixie will be forced to drag you back from Tartarus herself.” I stared at her for a second. “You’re planning on making me live forever? I’m pretty sure there’re -like... a billion rules about that.” “You’re talking to the Great and Powerful Trixie. If she didn’t come up with the rule, then it’s not a rule and can be broken,” she replied with a smirk. I snorted. “I’ll remind you of that when I’m an undead lich abomination thing that wants to eat souls and shits out demons.” “No rule about being unable to turn someone back,” she chuckled. “Though Trixie is certain liches don’t actually exist outside of stories.” “I thought bat ponies didn’t exist outside of stories.” I replied, before frowning and adding. “Or Nightmare Moon.” “Or a mare as beautiful and as sexy as me?” asked Trixie teasingly, and for once, there was no added layer of sexuality behind it. No battering of the eyelashes or stray hoof or anything. It was just a simple straightforward tease, and I was smiling despite myself. “Well, I was a cub at the time, and my sex life was less than active, thank fuck for small favors.” I replied and bumped her shoulder. “And I hear that the Bearer of Generosity’s pretty hot.” “Well if you’d like, Trixie is willing to arrange a wet mane competition against this mare.” If anything her smirk deepened. “But Trixie is certain she’d still win in the end.” “I have a better idea, how about we get her in for a threesome, and then you can actually be in my harem.” To my surprise, she burst out laughing. “Well then, why don’t we invite this... Rainbow Dash? I believe her name was?” I shuddered. “Ew, fuck no.” I stuck my tongue out in disgust. “That’d be like fucking Grace.” At that comment, Trixie got a contemplative look on her face. “Well...” she began with a cheeky grin and I immediately gagged. “Seriously? You’ve got the hots for my brother? Fuck, the mental images of him and Dash together...” I shuddered. “Goddesses damn it, Trix. Please tell me you’re joking about Grace.” She finally burst out laughing, rolling around on the ground as she did so. “Fucking Tartarus, how could you even dream of that?” I muttered. She straightened up and smiled at me. “Well, who hasn’t had a fantasy about twins?” I gagged again, and this time I barely managed to swallow the bile before it made it into my mouth. Even then I still had that acidy taste on my tongue. “We’re never talking about this again... ever.” Once more she burst out laughing and this time there were tears. “Oh Gilda, you are too easy to tease. Almost takes the fun out of it.” “Then don’t do it.” I muttered. She grinned at me and planted a kiss on my beak. “But you’re so cute when flustered. Plus, Trixie humiliated the Bearer of Generosity, so she doubts she could set up a threesome anyways.” I snorted. “Yeah, you sort of don’t have the charisma to convince anyone to join a threesome without a big bag of bits.” “Trixie would like to see you do better.” Trixie tossed her hair back. “It’s not Trixie’s fault her hotness intimidates others.” I burst out laughing. “Yeah, that’s the problem. I’m pretty sure I’d have a better chance than you would, and that’s saying something. I’m under no delusions about my own charm.” “Trixie will have you remember she had all those backwater village boys eating out of her hoof yesterday. Though she will admit she had help in the form of one very sexy volunteer.” I rolled my eyes. “Please. Those Great Scars weren’t sure whether I was a dude or chick at first. Half of them were heartbroken you were spoken for, and the other half were too shocked to know what to think.” I paused and thought about it. “Seriously, what’s with the gender inversion with me and Grace?” “Who knows?” With one hoof wrapped around my waist, she leaned into me. “But I wouldn’t change one single bit... Except maybe the drinking habits.” “Hey, I can control my drinking.” I replied. “And you didn’t seem to mind them when we were back in White Peak.” “Trixie is starting to trust you more around drinks,” she said slowly, “but she still has reservations. A tad less drinking would be ideal.” “The drink we had at mum’s was the first drink I’ve had since White Peak!” I said indignantly. “Which is why Trixie so happily got the drinks for you,” How did she manage to sound so reasonable while saying these things? “But... then where has the rum gone?” I asked feeling confused. “You let me drink for not drinking when I didn’t have anything to drink?” Other than the bottle of whiskey I’d bought in White Peak and hid in my pouches. “Exactly.” The way she said it, it sounded like it was the most logical thing in existence. “Now can we go back to bed? Trixie is getting cold, and it’s hard to sleep without you beside her.” “But... what? I mean... alcohol and... what are you saying?” I stared at her in complete confusion. “Bed.” Poke. “Snuggles.” Poke. “Sleep.” Poke. “Now.” Poke. I sighed and followed her back to the tent. “But I like drinking.” I might have been whining, but whatever. “Are you whining?” A small giggle escaped. “To think I’d actually hear you whine. It’s almost adorable.” I bristled as I watched her lay down. “I’m not adorable!” I snapped. “Ponies are adorable, gryphons are predators.” I jabbed a claw at her chest. “You're adorable.” I accused her. “Was that supposed to be an insult?” With a sigh, I lay down next to her and covered her with my wing. “Plus, Trixie was complimenting you, you oaf.” “Oaf!” I repeated and perked up again. “I can live with that.” Anything was better than adorable. She simply rolled her eyes and smacked my shoulder. “At least you're my adorable oaf.” “I’m not adorable.” I muttered and lay my head back down. “Adorable, adorable, adorable. The more you deny it, the more adorable you are.” I tried to think of a good answer, but eventually I decided actions speak louder than words. Actions like throwing Trixie out of the tent. “Hey!” Trixie glared at me. “You do not just throw your marefriend out of a tent!” “I did,” I said proudly. The pride faltered when I caught that look in her eye. “Fine. Trixie shall sleep out here then,” she announced as she turned over and wrapped the blankets around her. With my enhanced vision, I could see how badly she was shivering though. “Trix... you’re taking the fun out of it.” I muttered. “Get back in here.” She didn’t move an inch. “Trix, I was joking.” I walked out of the tent and nudged her. “You’ll freeze to death out there.” “Admit you're adorable.” I froze. “What?” I asked incredulous. “Admit that you are adorable.” Trixie met my gaze dead on. “Admit it and Trixie shall return to the tent with you.” I glared at her, before I turned and walked back into the tent. “Fine then. Freeze to death. See if I care.” I lay down and watched her shiver. For her part, she didn’t even seem fazed as she closed her eyes. “And you call me suicidal,” I said to her. “You’re gonna die Trixie. Just get back in here already.” “Admit you’re adorable.” I snorted. “You’re not gonna kill yourself just to get me to say I’m adorable. No one’s that retarded.” “Ah, but this will prove once and for all just how great and powerful Trixie truly is. After all, who else can get the mighty Gilda to admit that she’s secretly adorable?” I rolled my eyes. “There’s no way this can mean that much to you. Who the fuck could you brag to about it anyway? Not like I’m famous.” “Trixie is a showmare and despite the incident at Ponyville, she still has a small, but loyal following.” And that evil smirk was back. “This adventure has given her all sorts of new stories for her amazing return shows.” “And how many fans do you have exactly?” I paused for thought. “Can’t be more than three. No wait... make that two.” “Your lack of faith is most disturbing,” she replied. “I am the Great and Powerful Trixie! Her fame is not limited by space or time. Her fame is not limited by the four walls of this dimension. Her fame transcends the very boundaries of this universe!” “And for some reason you want to brag about me being adorable.” I rolled my eyes. “Isn’t that a bit beneath the Great and Powerful?” “It’d be part of the comedy act for foals below the age of five,” she replied. “Heroism and dark stories only appeal to a small demographic.” “Yeah, romance is the big seller,” I muttered. “Speaking of which, get back in here already.” Trixie stuck her tongue out. “Admit you’re adorable.” I rolled my eyes and stepped out of the tent. I walked over and lay down next to Trixie. I draped a wing over her back. “Never.” “Well then it looks like we’ll be sleeping under the stars,” she whispered as she kissed my cheek. “Plus, your wing is plenty warm.” “If it rains, I blame you.” I looked up at the sky suspiciously. “They don’t bother controlling the weather this far from town.” “Then you will have to admit you’re adorable, won’t you?” Trixie smiled too sweetly for my liking. Unicorn’s couldn’t make it rain... could they? I snorted. “I’ll be fine. You’re the one who’ll freeze to death in the wet.” “So my big, brave, totally handsome gryphon won’t save me?” she asked with those big eyes of hers. “No. Your big, brave, totally handsome gryphon will be too busy saying she told you so.” Trixie grinned at that and snuggled into me. “Well this totally handsome gryphon is going to be Trixie’s blanket for the night.” “Honestly, how did you ever even sleep without me?” I asked her. “Seriously, it’s like you’ve always had a wing draped over your back or something.” “Trixie feels all safe and warm when you’ve got your wing wrapped around her,” she replied with a yawn. “Protected and safe.” “Ironic. What with how dangerous your life has been since you met me.” “Still safe and protected.” Sleepy eyes looked up at me. “Safer than Trixie has felt in a long time.” “Well then you better get to sleep and let your big handsome gryphon keep watch.” “Trixie would prefer her big handsome gryphon stay right where she is to keep Trixie nice and warm.” A soft sigh escaped. “And it should be illegal for someone to be this comfy.” “Yeah, lying in the open on the ground in the middle nowhere. Celestia’s royal palace has got nothing on us.” “Nothing on you,” she corrected as her eyes drooped close. I watched as her breath evened out, and I tightened my wing around her so she’d stay warm. Under my breath I started humming a lullaby my mother used to sing to me. Yeah, it’s lame but whatever. I can be sappy now and then. As long as Trixie was asleep and couldn’t rib me about it. “Sleep well, Trix,” I murmured after the song ended.