//------------------------------//
// The Redemption of a Thief 
// Story: Memoirs of a Thief 
// by grey mane 
//------------------------------//


Any fool can be happy. It takes a man with real heart to make beauty out of the stuff that makes us weep.
― Clive Barker, Days of Magic, Nights of War 







As Greymane watched them from the trees at a distance he could see the guards were prepared for anything, but on Celestia's face he could see doubt, at his current distance he could not hear the conversation between Celestia and Twilight but did what he could to read their lips, "Twilight I think your friend might have gotten a mixed message, we've had the guard heighten the security all around Canterlot for the past two weeks and nothing has happened."

As Greymane shook his head he knew that they were starting to doubt him. In the past when the leviathan warned him of such things he was never wrong, so why would he be now, he wondered as he slipped out from one tree and into the next to continue following them. As they started to put the elements back into the gilded box there came a burst of dark magic that blew open a large hole in the castle wall, as the smoke and dust slowly settled two hulking figures came walking through.

As they walked in one had tossed a helpless guard to the ground as he gave a sinister smile, "Well, well, well, so this is Canterlot..." Looking around as he licked his lips the demon slowly took a few steps forward, "...I like how the place looks, but I'm sure we can spruce things up around here. Make things look a little nicer. I'm thinking of re-painting the place red...with the blood of every pony here."

As the hulking demon rushed them his speed made it difficult for the guard to get into place to defend both Celestia and Luna. Many were cut down where they stood just for the sport of it; as the demon rushed passed them laughing. As the demon drew closer and closer he teared his way through the few guards that were close by nearly tearing out internal organs as he passed. Once he was in arm's reach of Twilight he raised his left claw and began to strike.

As the demon's claw came within mere inches of Twilight they were surprised by a cloud of smoke that appeared from out of nowhere. The only thing anypony could see was a single hoof strike the demon from under his chin lifting him off the ground by only a few inches. They continued to watch as it pulled the demon into the smoke and tossed him back into a tree near where he started as though the demon where a rag doll. Many of the still standing but wounded guards were shocked to see this happen while many more were wondering what had just transpired, as they stared on in astonishment they did what they could to gather their wounded and get them to safety.

As the smoke slowly cleared Celestia saw the dark grey cloak but doubted the old ponies tale, "It can't be."

As the demon rose to his feet he shouted in frustration believing there wasn't a single pony in all of Canterlot let alone Equestria who could do that, "WHO THE HELL!"

Before the smoke completely cleared the demon who had not moved from his original place took a few steps forward clapping "Well done, well done, I would expect no less from the Legendary Thief himself."

As the smoke cleared the two demons could see the rage in Greymane's eyes as he stared them down, "I have no idea what the minions of Tartaros want in Canterlot, but I'll give you one chance to leave before I send both you back to your dark masters as a pair of limp lifeless corpses."

As the other demon rose to his feet he laughed at the gesture, "You dare threaten me..." Spreading his wings the demon lifted himself off the ground as he prepared to take flight, "...the great Abatu? I AM NOT SOME MINION...NOR AM I A LESSER DEMON. I am a greater demon free of my own accord. And I've chosen to claim these lands for myself." As he boasted many were in fear of him, but he was merely trying to mock the pony who just dropped him with little to no effort.

As the other demon came walking out from the dust and dirt made from the hole in the wall they created, Greymane looked to him in hopes of ending this sooner and without any further conflict.

What gave him this hope was that he knew this demon from various images on the walls of ruins and old temples dedicated to him, "Adramelech, Chancellor and president of the high council of demons...care to tell me what you are doing here so that we can find some middle ground and end this without further blood being spilt?" As he spoke the demon's name he used the conversation as an advantage to remind Adramelech that he could use demon's curse and bind his power at will, though he didn't expect the intimidation to work he did hope it would cause the demon to see reason to just leave.

Feeling his own power slightly diminish he knew that he had just been cursed, but thought nothing of it, "Well let me be the first to say, it is nice to see you finally come out of hiding...and as strong as ever. But as I said earlier I would expect no less from you Greymane. And when I heard there was going to be a chance to end your life well..." Pausing mid-sentence he smiled as he popped his knuckles then sharpened his claws on the stone wall, "...I couldn't help but jump at the opportunity to say the least, after all it's not every day you get to take on a legend, and I'm sure the feeling is mutual for you to face me."

Lowering his head as he shook it they could hear the sad tone in his voice, "You're right, it's not every day one gets to face an Archdemon. But I was hoping that you would listen to reason. If you leave now and take Abatu with you then I will talk with your masters on your behalf, both of you will be free from whatever punishment they may have in store for you."

Knowing Greymane was going to stay this path and try to end it with conversation he raised his hand and pointed to his left index finger at a random guard as he channeled his dark magic to the tip, "Well you see my master will forgive me if I bring him your soul. So either way I receive no punishment. And a fight with you and you alone is all I ask for any how, but there are far too many ponies here. What do you say I cut the number down?"

As he turned and looked at the guard with the intent to kill he could see the fear of death in the young mortal's eyes that left him frozen and unable to move. Smiling Adramelech nearly started to laugh as a large stone hit him in the temple, causing the archdemon to lose his concentration forcing the spell to fade from his finger.

As he turned to look back at Greymane a small bolt of fear shot through his body as he saw the rage with in his eyes, "YOUR FIGHT IS WITH ME ADRAMELECH, SO IF YOU EVEN HARM ONE HAIR ON ANY OF THEIR MANES, SO HELP ME I WILL SEND YOU BACK TO THE HIGH COUNCIL OF DEVILS IN PIECES, WITH A LETTER ADDRESSED TO YOUR MASTER WARNING HIM AND ALL OF TARTAROS OF WHAT THEY SHALL FACE SHOULD THEY COME TO THE MORTAL COIL!!!" As he tried to calm himself he turned and face every pony behind him, "Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, get every pony back behind the castle walls...if any pony is going to get hurt today then let it be me and nopony else."

Knowing that much was at stake Celestia nodded her head as she signaled to the guard to retreat behind the walls and others to get  all civilians to safety, "At the moment I have to think of my subjects first...so for now I'll cooperate with you but I want some answers later."

As he looked her in the eye he gave a lifeless stare as if he had already given up on his own life and intended to meet his end that day, "If I survive..." Looking back at the demons he knew that if he could single one of them out he stood a chance; but two at once and both of a decent rank he knew that there was little to no chance for survival, "...then you can have your answers."

As every pony started to make their way to safety the boastful demon Abatu rushed toward Princess Luna, "You think I'm going to let this opportunity go? I'LL BE REMEMBERED FOR KILLING ONE OF THE ROYAL FAMILY!"

As he drew closer it almost seemed to be with in a blink of an eye as Greymane struck at his lower vertebrae severing his spine. Quickly using the momentum as he pounced off Abatu's back as though it was a spring board; twisting his body he grabbed the demon by the horns and threw him to the hooves of Adramelech. As Abatu tossed and turned on the ground in pain, Adramelech couldn't help but smile having seen the display of skill from Greymane, though this display came from Abatu trying to harm Luna he knew that Greymane was not going to hold back. And for the first time since he became an archdemon he finally found an opponent worth fighting, far more so than another archdemon.

As he gave a sinister smile he was in awe as he whispered to himself, ‘Amazing...so much skill, so much power behind each attack. And yet…’ Looking Greymane in the eyes he could feel the hair on his body stand on ends from excitement, ‘...he's still just toying with us. Truly this fight will be worthy of everything that I am. The old reports are true!’

As Abatu was able to subdue some of his pain he raised his hand in the hopes of gaining help from his ally, "Adramelech...give me a hand up..." Trying to take the archdemon's hand he could feel that each little twitch of his arm was like having a spear driven up his spine, "...we’ll kill him together."

As Adramelech reached down he grabbed Abatu's arm and chuckled, "No I'll take his life..." As he started to laugh Adramelech cast a spell to burn Abatu from the inside out, "...you can just die. After all you've outlived your usefulness."

"No...NO...NO~O!!!" As Abatu shouted many watched in horror as his flesh began to boil and pop. To say his death was slow and agonizing was putting it mildly to say the least.





Greymane started on never removing his eyes from Adramelech, even as many found their gaze drawn to Abatu who was slowly melting into a steaming puddle. Greymane knew that Adramelech was not one to be taken lightly, his power was mostly given to him from the many young foals that were burned at altars dedicated to him in ancient times. But back in those days he was considered a lord and with many of his altars destroyed; and the ones that survived abandoned he had no power to draw upon other than what had been given to him by the master he served.

Removing the arm that once belonged to Abatu from his own, he turned his attention back to Greymane and smiled, "I'll give you the time needed to retreat every pony here but I must know...what is going through your mind right now that you would not accept help? Does it have something to do with that one fateful night?"

As every pony ran back behind the walls for safety Princess Luna walked forth and stood next to him, "What are you talking about? My sister and I will aid him to save every pony if we have to."

As she made her claim Celestia stood next to her with a determined look throughout her body, "Agreed, Twilight gather the others and have the elements of harmony ready for the worst." Celestia ordered knowing this could go either way.

As they prepared Greymane hid behind the hood of his cloak as he slammed his hoof causing the ground to crack open, "NO...Luna, Celestia...GO BACK BEHIND THE WALLS...this is my fight and nopony else has to get involved."

Believing that an earth pony would not stand a chance Luna tried to reason with him, "Didn't you just see what he did? You won't stand a chance on your own you need our help. If not both of us then..."

As she tried to get him to come around he stopped her mid sentence with a tone of self loathing and self hatred, as he looked at his hoof he knew that what Adramelech said struck a nerve that caused Greymane to question if he even deserves to survive the fight, "Although I can't help but agree with you...I cannot allow any pony to be harmed, so if you please go and be with those who need you most."

Knowing he managed to strike a nerve Adramelech couldn't help but laugh in an attempt to mock him, "Go now princesses...I'll come for the both of you and every pony inside later, But before you go..." Busting out in laughter he couldn't help but find the situation humorist, "...Greymane, please share your thoughts with us as to why do you decline their help."

As every pony in Canterlot was evacuated into the castle many heard him as they tried to make their way to safety, "MY LIFE FOR THEM! And I will not have it any other way."

As his words rang in the minds of many ponies they pondered what caused this sudden change in him. Had he lost the will to live and was looking for his own death, could he have turned over a new leaf, or was it something else? None knew what brought forth this change but many speculated what it could be, and yet, at the same time the questioned their own eyes. To see a living legend who was nothing but a myth to them only moments ago.

While every pony moved as fast as they could to get to safety Adramelech constantly mocked Greymane in an attempt to get him to weaken the hold he had over him with the curse, "Your life for them..." Falling to his knees in a fit of laughter almost made him seem like a pushover, "...don't make me laugh. You the Legendary Thief, I know what you did, I know what you are, what you have become and what you’re capable of all of Tartaros knows it. I've read the report from that fateful night, the lives lost, how you're hooves are stained with blood. It was like listening to a symphony, so well orchestrated. But we both know who struck first."

The more he spoke, the more Greymane fell to despair the more he thought to himself, 'He's right...I'm no thief...I'm a monster who deserves to be killed, who deserves to be gutted then hung by its intestine and left to rot.'

Thinking back to the night Greymane could hear the screams and smell burning flesh, and as he looked at his hooves he could see the blood. The more he was reminded of that night the further he fell into despair, hoping to find one reason to fight with all that he was he turned his head and looked up at the royal family. As his eyes made contact with Luna he was reminded why he continued, for the chance to find redemption in life, in the hopes that one day he might be forgiven, even if only a small hoofful knew about that night. Since that night he was looking for a way to redeem himself, and now he believed he had found the first step on the way to getting his wish, even if it was going to cost him his life.

Turning back to look at Adramelech with a new found conviction in his eyes his expression became peaceful as if he found some form of inner peace alongside a passion that would drive him to the ends of the earth, "I know what you're trying to do, and I won't let you distract me this way. Such a poor tactic to use, but then again it's common where you come from."





Several hours passed as the last of the ponies in Canterlot were evacuated into the castle grounds. As the gates closed behind Greymane, Adramelech rushed him attempting to strike him from behind only to watch as his claw was pushed to the side as Greymane spun around and attempted to kick him in the head. As his hoof came close to his head the archdemon blocked his hoof and tried to tear his flesh with his other claw while Greymane used the momentum his first attack created to lift himself out of the way and bounce off the demon's head.

As many watched the two fight it seemed as if they were well matched as they clashed, claw meeting hoof, pony vs demon. The outcome of the fight was uncertain as they exchanged blow for blow, blocking, deflecting, and retaliating. As the fight seemed to continue without end reports were sent back to Celestia in the hopes that whoever won the fight they would have the advantage of knowing how to fight them, especially if Greymane was the one to win. For an hour it appeared that the demon had the upper hand in the fight when he started to cast magic.

Adramelech threw fire balls, cast lightning bolts, and even tried to impale Greymane with spikes of ice and stone as they came out of the ground. As he kept Greymane at a distance he began to tire as each spell became harder and harder to cast, but Greymane appeared to still be at the top of his game. And for good reason too, when the demon started to use his dark magic Greymane started to use illusions to wear him out, using one more of his powders as he jumped behind the nearby bushes to throw Adramelech off as he teleported into a tree on the far left side of the archdemon as Adramelech set the bush on fire. Throwing his voice, and tossing what few rocks he had grabbed, made the archdemon believe he was in one location or another when he was in none of them to begin with.

As the fight heated up Adramelech expanded his senses and pulled Greymane out of the tree with telekinesis and slammed him down on the ground, as he dragged him across the cobbled stone strait to himself he felt proud to have Grey in his grasp. As he lifted Greymane up by his back right hoof he prepared to gut Grey open from waist to neck with one claw, only to be blinded as Greymane threw dirt into his eyes causing him to lose focuses and sight for a brief second. While he was stunned for the moment Greymane went behind him and ripped off one of his wings, enraging the demon knowing that when they are angered most will go into a blood rage and won't think about how they fight. Greymane hoped this archdemon would fall into such a rage granting him the opportunity he needed, for most combatants when they enter a blood rage they are easier to tire out allowing the fight to end faster.

Sadly Adramelech was not the kind of demon to fall for such a trick and kept his composure as he cast a spell to grow his wing back. As he turned to face Greymane he saw that he had once again disappeared, only to discover he had quickly gone around behind him and ran up behind him ready to catch Adramelech off guard and rip off both his wings this time. As Greymane stood waiting to see what he would do, Adramelech quickly discovered that Grey was merely trying to get him to waste his magic on such needless things and chasing down the crafty stallion. Once he discovered Greymane's plan was to tire him out, he resumed the attack and chose not to regrow his wings till he had time to recover enough of his dark powers to cast the spell again.

As the fight continued the guards watched on as Greymane chose to step up his game, widening his stance he took a deep breath and with its release Grey calmed himself to prepare for a  longer fight. As Adramelech started to move faster Greymane started to move like a snake, while changing his fighting styles in mid attack. Going from the heavy hoofed styles of Saddle Arabia, to the quick hoofed style from Vietmane, and even heavy takedowns from both Camelia and Minotauria. As well as a few fighting styles from the great dragon kingdoms, and several others that had been passed down by his predecessors, though many of these styles were thought lost throughout the ages. All of these different fighting styles gave Greymane the edge in the fight. But Adramelech grew tired of this game and cast one last spell summoning the air around him to the palm of his hand, as he slammed his hand down on the ground a cloud of dust and dirt kicked up covering them and making it harder for all to see how the fight would progress.

As the reports slowly stopped making their way towards Celestia and Luna, many believed that Greymane had the upper hoof in the fight the second he stopped playing around. But with the cloud blocking the view of the fight none knew for sure as to who was winning, but what Adramelech could tell was Greymane was getting tired. His attacks became slower and weaker with each passing second, though he had taken much damage he knew he could out last Greymane; and once he had his opening he would return everything a thousand fold. But the cloud of dust worked both ways, while Adramelech could not truly see Greymane he could however feel he was taking a moment to rest and recover before Adramelech could find him again.





As the fight raged on Celestia and Luna collaborated on what to do next from the one spot in the castle that overlooked the base of the mountain below. It was considered one of the highest locations in the castle by point of view, and for many it was said to have one of the best views in Equestria.

As Celestia analyzed what information they had gathered Twilight and the others returned with what little information they could find on both the demon and Greymane, "How's everything going so far Princess?" Twilight inquired hoping for the fight to be near its end and some good news.

"As far as we can tell they're both still fighting, without either of them giving in or giving up. And according to these reports it seems Greymane was or could still be winning this fight." Celestia said with a hint of optimism while questioning how an earth pony was lasting as long as Greymane has, "Hopefully you all have had better luck."

Lowering their heads Twilight shook her head, "Sorry but we haven't...both of them seem to know far more about each other while we know little to nothing about them."

Looking over the reports a second time Luna quickly took notice one key thing about Greymane, "Well other than him pulling off what seems to be impossible for an earth pony let alone a unicorn if they were as skilled in magic like Starswirl, he's quite adept at hoof to hoof combat from what we've gathered so keeping a slight distance from him is a good option. And while he knows many different styles from around the world but doesn't seem to stick to any one of them for too long. But according to how he switched tactics it's only a matter of time before this ends, and all we can do is simply hope the Thief of Legends comes out on top. That way we stand a greater chance of getting some answers."

"We can't be so sure he will simply give in like that sister, he is after all the Legendary Thief...who's to say this isn't some ploy of his to rob us blind. As an added precaution I sent several of the royal guard to the vault just in case but going off these reports there is a good chance they won't be able to handle him." Celestia claimed with a great doubt hanging heavily over her head, and with good reason with the only bit of information on Greymane was an old dusty book that when summed up in one statement simply said, 'He was an enigma that was believed to be a simple story.'

With great optimism Luna placed her hoof on Celestia's shoulder, "We are not so sure about that sister, when he said he would answer our questions, it seemed to me that there was much truth in his words. Perhaps we could show him some faith? After all he is risking his own life for us, we all saw what happened to that other demon, there's no telling what this one could have done even if the two of us faced him. Greymane however must have face a demon or two once before."

Before Celestia could speak Twilight pointed out a harsh truth, "And that could be the problem, how many has he faced, and how many could and would be willing to work with him?"

"That is what I thought too, for him to know so much about this demon in particular seems far too coincidental to be enemies. Acquaintances maybe, but if that's the case why not just end this through a simple conversation, why kill his own ally and fight. Unless they were working together and put on a show, for all we know the other demon could still be alive and that was just part of the theatrics. I know we should have some faith in him and trust him a little bit, but if we give him an inch he could take a mile." The words Celestia spoke took the little faith any of them had in Greymane and turn it into doubt with in an instant.

Sparking a new conversation having remembered what Twilight read in the book Applejack perked up, "According to the book he disappeared about a thousand years ago. Now if he really is the Legendary Thief from this old ponies tale then we’ve got bigger problems to deal with, like where has he been all this time? And why now of all the days does he chose to come out of hiding? That right there don't tell us much, but it does tell us that if he wanted to steal from us he could have done it when ever he wanted and none of us would have been the wiser for it. So wouldn't it be safe to say that he ain't workn' with them darn demons?"





As they continued to talk on the matter Greymane was slowly losing the fight under the cloud of dirt and dust, the time he spent making his way out of the crystal cavern took most of his energy, and the first hour and a half of the fight didn't do much for him even if he did find ways to rest while keeping Adramelech on his toes. What made things worse was by the end of the second half hour fatigue set in and started to take its toll, all the cloud did was give him a small advantage to remain hidden to sight. But all Adramelech needed to track Greymane was a small drop of blood, or sweat. And sadly Greymane was sweating like a fountain, making him a glowing beacon in the dark.

The longer this fight went on the harder it was for Greymane to remain hidden, let alone stand on his hooves. What made this worse was when he used the demon's curse to bind Adramelech's power to his own will it also drew on his own will power constantly draining it, the longer he held the curse the weaker he became. He knew the consequences and the threat of using the demon's curse but in this situation what choice did he have?

As he grew more and more tired he became sloppy and made far more mistakes than he normally would have. It was only a moment later Adramelech found the opportunity he was waiting for, in the center of the cloud he mercilessly beat Greymane tearing through his flesh, and bashing him into the ground. The only reprieve Greymane got was when Adramelech tried to end the fight.

Cocking back his right arm while flexing his muscles Adramelech drew forth what he thought was plenty of his strength needed to kill Greymane in one punch; as he tossed him into the air, "Die knowing that you failed."

As his fist came close Greymane brought up his front left leg just in time to block the attack as it sent him flying. As the force of the impact that sent Greymane flying many watched to see him soaring through the air, and though the punch would have been enough to kill him Grey was fortunate enough that it had not landed any where else on his body, but the attack was enough to leave him dazed. Having used his own leg to soften the blow it had allowed him to take most of it, but not without some internal damage as well as the broken bone in his leg.

Quickly giving chase after him Adramelech scaled the walls and jumped with all his might and continued to knock Greymane further and further into the air, beating him senselessly like a rag doll. As the battle between him and Adramelech raged on Greymane knew he was out of tricks, and the beating was starting to take its toll. As he soared through the air Greymane took notice that his cloak was so badly damaged that the enchantment seemed to stop, and in his mind this appeared to be the end and though he was not yet ready to die; he welcomed death regardless asking that he be given the chance to end the fight before dying.

As the fight neared its end Celestia and the others continued to question if Greymane could be trusted or not. Only for them to see him come falling down from the sky completely unaware of his surroundings. As he neared them Twilight used her magic to slow his descent only enough for him to roll once he hit the ground. As they looked on the royal guard approached him with spears and swords at the ready as they slowly surrounded him.

As he attempted to get up they saw he was bleeding profusely from long and deep lacerations. As he struggled to get to his hooves all saw as the bone in his front left leg pierced his flesh and popped out causing him to drop down to the floor grieving in pain. Using his front right he struggled to once more get to his hooves grunting and fighting back the pain hoping not to pass out; with the only thought in his mind being that he could still fight if he could stand back up.

As he rose to his hooves struggling against the odds his mask fell to the ground exposing his face, and with a gasp Fluttershy and the others attempted to rush to his aid as the guards blocked their path.

As Fluttershy slipped passed the guards she did what she could to help him up, "Oh my... Greymane please be alright."

`As the guards continued to blocked the others Luna had a good look at his face, "Sister their right, its the stallion we've mentioned that lost his memory."

As he managed to somehow stand he looked at the guards that surrounded him and even tried to gently push Fluttershy away from himself, "It would be  in your best interest..." Nearly falling over from pain as he coughed up a little blood he stared at them worried that they were too close, "...to back off." He struggled to say as he continued to spit and cough up blood showing signs of internal bleeding.

Knowing they would never have another chance like this a Lieutenant mocked him, "And just why should we? Look at you, you're beaten, you can't even harm a fly now."

As he boasted the other guards ran in fear as the archdemon manifested behind him and grabbed the poor pony by the neck lifting him into the air slowly clenching his grip, "Because he isn't the one you should be worried about..." Taking a moment he rolled his eyes believing mortals to be of less intelligence, "...well not so long as I'm still alive."

As the archdemon continued to slowly squeeze the guard's neck for his own pleasure, Greymane forced himself to stand as he took a defensive stance as his knees began to shake, not from fear; but from exhaustion, "ADRAMELECH...LET HIM GO...THIS FIGHT...IS BETWEEN YOU AND ME."

Having one good look at the pony in his hand and another look at Greymane, he tossed the Lieutenant into the other near by guards, "You're right, in this fight you are the greater prize. And you know I have to give you credit, you managed to rip off not one but both of my wings and survive the beating I gave you. But looking at you now, you're no longer worth my time. But then again I hate to leave a project unfinished. But in any case I don't really care when I kill you, I just want to hear you to beg for death, I want to see you suffer before you die. It will give me a grand feeling of satisfaction to know, I made the Legendary Thief himself beg for mercy."

Using telekinesis he slammed Greymane's back to the ground and held him there as he walked over. Standing over Greymane he pointed at him with his index finger and started to repeatedly stab him over, and over, and over again, pausing for a few moments in between each stab to wiggle his finger around and hear Greymane scream in agony, while he played with his internal organs. As Adramelech continued to stab and toy with Greymane hoping to make him cry out for death, he soon found his arm caught in an aura of midnight blue magic holding him back.

As he turned his head he saw Luna walking toward them, "That is enough, can't you see he is at his limit. He can't fight you any more."

Seeing the opportunity to claim more than one soul and be praised in Tartaros by his master Adramelech lowered his arm as he folded both arms behind his back.

Slowly walking toward Luna and the others in a diplomatic manner he smiled as he thought of a little plan to trick them into selling their souls, "Tell me..." Looking at all of them he felt a small twinge of doubt among them causing him to assume it came from if they could trust Greymane or not, "...would you stop a duel between us, between a legend and a demon once worshiped as a god, simply because he chose to offer himself up? And would you be willing to do the same on his behalf, if it meant I would stop?"

Struggling to sit up Greymane noticed a way to end this fight but he needed Adramelech to be standing in the right spot, "Luna..." Knowing he had next to nothing left within himself Greymane dragged himself a few inches to the wall where he noticed a few stones were loose, "...don't answer him. He's twisting his words, the wrong answer will grant him the rights to your soul."

Giving a faint grin as he shook his head, Adramelech tried to discourage Greymane's words and hide his intentions, "Don't mind him, the pain has finally reached his head, after all I'm just trying to be reasonable and get one answer for many questions that have absolutely nothing to do with claiming a soul. Now then would any of you make the same choice as him, to give up everything for some pony you know nothing about?"

As Greymane once again struggled to his hooves every pony could see the tears in his eyes, but not one drop was because of the pain he was in, "FORGET ABOUT ME, I'M NOT WORTH A DAMN! I'M JUST SOME GOOD-FOR-NOTHING WHO CHOSE A LIFE OF THIEVERY BECAUSE IT WAS FUN. BUT ALL OF YOU ARE WORTH SO MUCH TO SO MANY...just please...don't answer him."

"We still have the Elements of Harmony, I say we forget your deal and just blast you with them." Rainbow Dash boasted as she attempted to stare down Adramelech.

With the most sinister smile any of them had ever seen Adramelech gloated, "Oh by all means give it your best shot, in the time it would take for all of you to call forth the magic locked within your accursed artifacts, I would have killed at least three of you making them useless… and that’s even with your Princesses trying to save you. So as you can see, I'm giving you a much better deal when you really think about it."

Stepping forth Twilight stared the archdemon down knowing Adramelech stood a chance of being right, "If we say yes?"

"Then I will stop this madness." Adramelech replied keeping his answer as vague as possible.

Fearing the answer she would get Fluttershy tiptoed over and cowered behind Luna and the others as she barely poked her head up, "A-a-a-and what if we refuse?" Though she didn’t want to abandon Greymane, she felt that an answer for the opposing option was necessary for them to make a sound decision.

Giving a sinister smile as he laughed, Adramelech stared back at Greymane out of the corner of his eye and flexed his claw showing the blood stains in an attempt to force the deal in the direction he wanted, "Then I continue to kill him slowly right before your very eyes. Isn't that right Greymane?"

Struggling to stand and stay conscious through the pain and blood loss Greymane stumbled as he took small steps toward everypony while keeping as close to the wall as possible, "Do your worst..." As he walked towards them they barely noticed that he had taken a vine from the wall and was dragging it with him, "...there isn't a damn thing you can do to me that I can't handle." Looking toward everypony he tried to plead with them once more hoping to keep them from making the wrong choice, "Girls please listen to me...if you say yes then he will kill us all, forget about me and live life to its fullest." As he struggled to get closer trying to save what little strength he had left he saw that Adramelech was right where he wanted him right next to the weakened wall, as he fell to the ground the strap to his gourd snapped and rolled off to the side, disregarding it he continued to drag himself closer, "Please...whatever you do, don't worry about me. There isn't a cell that can keep me locked away."

Looking at a dear friend they knew if the fight ended they could get him medical attention and they also knew if the fight continued he would not be put into a cell... ...he would die, as they looked at each other they nodded, "We agree." Twilight stated as she lowered her head.

With a smile Adramelech flexed his muscles and prepared to attack them. As they realized Greymane spoke the truth Twilight was frozen with fear as the arch demon's claw came close to striking her. As everypony rushed to her aid they watched in awe as Greymane mustered the last of his strength, and stunned Adramelech with a buck to his ribs, and continued his assault by jumping onto Adramelech's back and wrapping the vine around his neck to choke the archdemon forcing him to stumble back over the weakened wall and fall off the edge.

As they fell Greymane let out a mournful laugh as the two of them fell to what seemed to be their deaths, "IF ANY PONY IS DYING TODAY ITS ME..." As they looked over the edge they slowly lost sight of them in the dense fog that lay below but still managed to hear Greymane, "...AND I'M TAKING YOUR SORRY ASS WITH ME BACK TO TARTAROS!!" As they watched on they saw Greymane fading behind the mist as he whispered a few words as he smiled though in his mind he knew they would never hear these words, 'I'm sorry everypony.'

As the two of them fell  Adramelech's screams could be heard throughout the castle, while Greymane remained silent. As Rainbow Dash and Princess Luna gave chase after him hoping he was going to be okay and that his silence was from him passing out, though it was a strait fall down they followed the trail of blood and flesh on the jagged rocks that stuck out of the mountain side. And though they remained hopeful that he could still be alive sadly they found his broken battered body nearly a mile down and attempted to bring it back. As they carefully picked him up they found themselves being stopped by Adramelech stumbling his way toward them from out of a small opening in the mountain.

Laughing as he took small steps toward them, beaten and battered from the fall, his large intestine barley hanging out as he walked, he flexed his claw as he dragged it across the wall of the cave, "You ponies struck a deal with me, now your souls are mine to claim."

As Luna started to channel magic into her horn to prepare for a fight with Adramelech she and Rainbow Dash were baffled as they watched as millions if not billions of poisonous insects started to crawl on his body, in that moment they watched Adramelech begin to cower in fear as a dark and evil voice shouted as if it came from all around them, "ADRAMELECH, YOU HAVE DEFIED ME FOR THE LAST TIME!"

As Adramelech's expression went from proud and boastful into fear struck, he tried to plead and bargain for his own safety, "Master please wait...I have souls to offer unto you. Greymane's being the grand prize here as well as..."

As Adramelech was lifted into the air the insects continued to collect and gather into what appeared to be a giant claw, bringing the archdemon to what appeared to be a colossal demonic face made of the foulest of insects, "ENOUGH!!! YOU WILL FORFEIT YOUR PRIZE, AND THE DEAL YOU HAVE STRUCK WITH THESE PONIES SHALL BE NULL AND VOID. YOU KNEW THE CONSEQUENCES OF LEAVING TARTAROS WITHOUT MY SAY SO!"

In attempt to shift the blame and gain a lesser punishment Adramelech hoped for the best as he cried, "But master Asmoday said..."

"ASMODAY!?!? I SHALL SEE TO HIM LATER, FOR NOW I SHALL DRAG YOU BACK TO TARTAROS FOR YOUR PUNISHMENT!" He exclaimed as the insects slightly scattered and swarmed stinging Adramelech while creating a tighter grip.

"No master...please...spare me." Adramelech cried out in fear as he turned and dug his claws into the nearby stone wall.

As his temper slowly dropped the swarm of insects recollected and reformed the demonic face, "I already have, the Princess of the Night would have ended your life. Did you really think that by trying to kill Greymane the demonic curse would lift itself? It continues to plague you in a small way. And of what use to me is an archdemon that can't cast magic and has become weaker than a newborn mortal?" Turning his gaze toward Luna the swarm lowered themselves so the face appeared to be making eye contact with both Luna and Rainbow Dash, "I apologize for what has transpired this day. Had I known sooner I would have done all I could to spare Greymane his fate and uphold the ancient agreement we dark gods have with him, but I can feel his life slowly fading; and though I fear he will not survive I do pray that if you hurry he just might yet live." Looking back towards Adramelech he smiled as he let out a blood thirsty chuckle, "Come now Adramelech, I have a new disease I want to test on you."

As the swarm left they could hear Adramelech screaming in fear as he was dragged away to face whatever punishment his dark master had prepared for him. The great archdemon Adramelech who stood so proud earlier that morning was now being taken kicking, screaming, and crying like a foal, it only served to make Luna and Rainbow question how powerful these dark gods where; and what kind of deal Greymane had struck with them that sounded as though they had the upmost respect for him. Quickly tossing the thought aside for the moment they carefully brought Greymane's body back to everypony hoping they could save him, unfortunately for them they were unaware his life slowly slipped away, all they could do was hope they where not too late to save him.





As Greymane passed from this world the Leviathan felt the sudden loss of life from his advocate even while he cleared his mind through meditation in the astral plain, "Ah~h...Greymane?" Knowing this was to be the outcome he hoped for he was more than well aware of what had taken place and feared for his advocate, "...Perhaps there's still time." Quickly rushing through the astral plain the Leviathan did all that he could to save Greymane but knew his soul was elsewhere, and traveled to Tartaros to deal with any of the dark lords who would have taken advantage of the situation. For even if his body was restored he knew that his advocate would still perish if his soul was never recovered.

As the leviathan rushed through the astral plain putting the pieces of his plan into action, he knew that there were only a few demonic lords that were willing to work with him; sadly the one that had Greymane's soul had much sinister plans in mind for the great thief. As Greymane slowly awakened in Tartaros the sound of a slow clap and sinister laughter accompanied by pain filled blood curteling screams was all that greeted him. As he looked up he saw the dark lord he stole from, and the tales of this one in particular where true. His mane and coat were stained with blood, his teeth sharper than the claws of an elder dragon, and eyes so dark one could almost see the void itself, and the evil feeling he gave off made discord look like a harmless filly.

Trying to lighten the mood of the situation Greymane mocked the dark lord to make himself laugh if even by a little, "I never thought you would look like a fallen alicorn. But then again even the purest of ponies have their demons don't they." Struggling to his hooves Greymane knew he was dead and more than welcomed the outcome, "So tell me did you fall from grace? Because from here I can tell you're mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries."

As Asmoday slowly walked toward Greymane he smiled as he boasted and laughed all while he mocked the fallen thief, "I see death does little to wane that tongue of yours. However, I feel a congratulations is in order for you Greymane...Canterlot is safe and only a few ponies were harmed. But you're such a fool to give up the medallion, with it you could have survived the fight, but now." Rushing Greymane he cast a small spell that made the hair in his tail seem like steel and brushed it against him causing thousands of small lacerations that seemed to be electricity charged; causing Greymane to drop and twitch in pain, "NOW YOU'RE DAMNED FOR ALL ETERNITY, YOUR SOUL IS MINE TO DO WITH AS I PLEASE. I watched your fight to the end, you could have stood a chance down here. But heroes lose everything in Tartaros."

"You're right...but I'm no hero." Greymane stated mocking Asmoday as he turned and punched him in the face, "I'M A THIEF AND PROUD OF IT!!"

Brushing away the hoof that landed on his face as if it was dust, Asmoday started his brutal punishment by beating him senselessly, knocking him from one end of the room to the next. The beating continued for twenty minutes, but to Greymane it felt as if it was longer than that as if his beating was taking an eternity.

As his beating went on Greymane's only thoughts were, 'At least they are all safe.'

For a brief moment the beatings stopped and Greymane saw the opportunity to strike back, as he rushed the dark lord the shadows seemed to twist and bend as they formed into several spikes impaling him, "It's a nice trick isn't it. I took it from the unicorn that tried to escape along side you. She was delicious, she tasted like fear and her blood helped give the extra added taste of pain that...well...is a delicacy."

Struggling through the pain as the shadows faded away leaving no signs that he had been impaled, bringing truth to the fact that it was an illusion that tricked not just the eyes, but the mind and body as well.

As Greymane looked at the dark lord he struggled to get to his hooves, "What did you do to her?"

"I didn't think you cared but if you must know..." Sucking in the air as he allowed his lower lip to bounce off of his teeth he soon chuckled, "...I consumed her. All that she was is now part of me. Her talents, her tricks, her spells. If it helped make her become known as the shade it is now mine to command as I see fit." He said with a crooked smile stretching across his face.

Continuing to use the shadows to torture Greymane gave him much pleasure, as he continued to enjoy himself he recalled the old reports the dark lords kept on all of the Greymanes as he laughed; his laughter was brought about from how he believed the old reports seemed to ring hollow, but as a condemned soul in the depths of Tartaros what could Greymane do the dead were not permeated to leave. To add to his problems Greymane knew he was at a disadvantage, he knew nothing of this demon so the curse would not work, on top of that he knew he was dead and was unsure if the dead could even use the curse. All he could do was struggle helplessly as he slowly passed out.

Knowing he would get no satisfaction from beating him while he slept Asmoday turned away feeling triumphant, "Take him to the heart of my domain, I'm sure many of the prisoners there have a few things to say to him. Oh and from here on out I shall administer his punishment, to ensure he can never escape again."

As he slowly walked away his highest ranking guard shouted, "My lord...his body...its vanishing!"

Turning around to see him slowly fade he knew there were few reasons behind this, "Impossible...there's no way he..." Only having just realized that Greymane was coming back to life he summoned forth the darkest spell he knew as his horn seemed to drain any light near him causing the entire room to turn pitch black, "NO...NO...NO...IF I CAN'T CLAIM HIS IMMORTAL SOUL AS MY PRIZE, THEN I SHALL SEND HIM TO FACE TRUE OBLIVION!!!"

As they all watched the spell fly straight toward Greymane, Asmoday laughed knowing he would end the Legendary Thief and his lineage permanently. And knowing that he would be the one to bring an end to the lineage of the Legendary Thieves brought him much pleasure. As the spell made contact they watched on as it seemed to consume and burn the area around him. As the smoke slowly cleared Asmoday's laughter quickly turned into unbridled rage, only to see that Greymane had been protected by a creature far more ancient than the majority of the demonic gods, as his fear started to take hold of his heart many of his greatest demons dropped to their knees begging for their own safety.

"LEVIATHAN...HOW DARE YOU..." Asmoday shouted shaking his realm to its core.

As the leviathan frowned he shook his head, "How dare I? This one is my advocate and therefor under my personal protection...his life is forfeit only to the reaper when his time comes at the sound of the black chapel bells, NOT TO YOU OR ANY OTHER WORTHLESS DEMON ."

In an attempt to prove Greymane's soul belonged to him he pointed out the fight, "He killed himself this day and there for his life is forfeit to Tartaros...HE IS IN MY DOMAIN AND I DECIDE WHAT HAPPENS FROM HERE ON OUT!"

"He did not kill himself out some simple choice, it was a sacrifice and therefore frees him from the bindings of Tartaros. Even the most ignorant of minions are aware of that." The leviathan said knowing the laws of the dead and not willing to allow Asmoday claim Greymane's soul as his prize so easily.

"You think one act of a selfless sacrifice is enough to free him..." Smiling as he walked forth Asmoday licked his lips as he recalled the darkest act Greymane had ever committed, "...despite all he's done for the greater good and diverting wars, there is still that one dark act he committed. And no deed in life will ever clear that away, nothing he does will ever wash away the blood stains on his hooves. How many lives were lost that night because of him, how much blood is upon his hooves? It is because of this, HE IS MINE!" Boasted Asmoday with a smug feeling of satisfaction.

Looking at the situation the leviathan mocked the demonic lord as he laughed, "So you say, however you're losing him now...and if you truly want a soul in place of his that is worth thousands more you can try and take mine. But I know you wouldn't dare tempt my power, you know quite well what I am capable of."

As Asmoday began to boast he laughed, "Look around you. You're in my domain, my KINGDOM, my power can far surpass even you here, all I have to do is draw upon the eternally damned souls that have been locked away within this place...so don't you dare threaten me."

As the leviathan's rage grew he chose not to shout but speak in the same language as the ancient dragons with a calm tone in his voice, as he closed his eyes and shook his head hoping it would not have had to come to such a thing, "Ahrk you forget faal knowledge I posses..." Taking a deep breath he focused a small bit of his will as he spoke the dark lord's name, "...Asmoday!"

As he heard his name spoken fear shot up his spine freezing him in place, he knew the curse wasn't used but he was fully aware that the leviathan was prepared to use it to its fullest should it come down to such a situation. 

In an attempt to hide his fear Asmoday put on a calm face though in his eyes fear and confusion ran rampant, "You wouldn't dare use such a thing here, would you?"

Continuing to push his authority the leviathan knew that there were other demons waiting to take the place of any of the dark lords, "Do course hin afraid wah hon hin name. Ahrk why wouldn't you, voth just hin name alone I can seal you away fah pah eternity...or worse. You see unlike Greymane faal lein doesn't need you, ahrk I know daar because there are thousands waiting wah take hin place. Greymane nau faal other haal is still needed."

As he prepared to fight the leviathan he saw a cloud of miasma and a mist of blood slowly close in far behind the leviathan, and Asmoday knew he would be fighting a losing battle even if it was just a one on one fight with the leviathan, "Take him then..." Looking at Greymane he knew that it was only a matter of time before he would either commit another atrocity or sacrifice himself either way he would be waiting, "...but mark my words one day he will die, and when that day comes I'll be waiting to claim his soul."

As he turned to face Greymane he slowly calmed down, "Nust sul ok sil is left wah you is faal sul tol I dii. Come Greymane, they are waiting for you to awaken."

As the leviathan left with Greymane, Asmoday's rage grew as his domain shook alongside it, clenching his teeth blood began to drip from his chin, "Damn...You...LEVIATHA~AN!!!"

As he slowly sat down still filled with anger he watched as every demon in his court fell deathly ill while a pool of blood and cloud of miasma took physical forms, "ASMODAY!"





It was several months before Greymane could awaken and move on his own free will, once he did he found himself in a room and comfortable bed, his first thoughts where, 'Cheap trick, I know how the cruel illusions of Tartaros work down here.' Struggling to his hooves he walked over to the window and had a good look outside and saw all of Canterlot, 'So this is my punishment? To face an eternal beating in the last place I was alive?' He thought to himself, disregarding the many bandages he saw on wrapping his body believing they could also be part of the illusion.

Just outside what he believes to be his prison cell he could hear the guards talking about simple day to day things, and the current shift change that came with the routine check on him that required both guards in the event that he could be a wake. Looking around the room he quickly planned for his escape, he knew there wasn't much and if the illusion was set for just the cell then the window and view where fake. Going for the oldest, and perhaps most redundant hiding tactics, he stood behind the door as it started to crack open. The guards laughed as they walked in unaware that Greymane was waiting for them, as they looked at the bed and found that it was empty, as Greymane slammed the door shut and jumped the guards.

The second they were incapacitated he used what items were available to tie them down and jam the door shut on his way out, while doing what he could to ignore his pain as old wounds started to reopen. Making his way down the corridor he believed his cell was much bigger this time around, and more than likely a maze that the illusion spell had been cast on in an attempt to keep him trapped; though his main concern was being captured again as he tried to escape, his only hope was to find one of the dark gods that were willing to aid him. As he moved from one corridor to the next slowly making his way out. His stern belief was the more guards he saw the closer he was to the exit of this maze hoping that the throne room in the castle was the exit to what he perceived as a maze in Tartaros.

As he slowly neared the throne room he peaked around the corner to find a small group of guards standing around to have a quick conversation, 'Five of them...' Seeing that every guard he past on his way here looked like ponies had made him worry, '...if they are lesser demons they won't be too much of a problem.' He thought to himself as three more came galloping frantically from around the corner.

Eavesdropping to their conversation he watched and noticed that the two guards he took out earlier were now up and free, what added to his problems was they had just informed the small group that was there, that he was now on the loose, "Here's what we'll do, you two go straight to the throne room and tell everypony there. And you two will go down that corridor and inform any and all who can help in the search."

As they saluted their commanding officer they all separated, taking notice of the two that went to the throne room gave Greymane a direction to go, but he had to deal with the same two guards that were outside his room earlier first. Looking around he found a cart with fresh linens for one of the rooms nearby with a maid inside, and just down the corridor he saw a chandelier. Getting to work he managed a makeshift trap as the two of them slowly made their way near him.

"I still can't believe he got the jump on us back there." The light blue stallion hinted away at with a slight sign of being disgruntled.

"Hey you can't blame us he's the legendary thief after all, we weren't prepared for when he would awaken, come to think of it no pony here really could be prepared for him." The white mare nudged away hoping to lift her friends spirit.

"Ya you have a point..." Perking up he smiled as he chuckled to what he thought was a stupid thought, "...you know what would suck though?" The light blue stallion inquired.

"What?" She responded hoping the response wasn't heading in the direction she thought it was.

Jokingly he tempted fate, "If he caught us off guard again and left us for some pony to find."

Waiting for the two to come just a little further he hid in the nearby room just under the bed to remain unseen by the maid. As he watched the two of them walk down the hall and heard a loud crash that drew the attention of every pony near by. Peeking out of the room he saw his trap worked but not in the way he intended for, they walked into it but rather than being hoisted up and left dangling in the air, when the trap sprung their combined weight caused the chandelier to fall in such a way that it seemed to trap them in a cage.

'Not what I wanted but it gets the job done.' He thought as he snuck off to follow the two ponies to the throne room, and hopefully in his mind freedom.

As he steadily made his way down the corridor he continued to plan out his escape knowing that this time around the Kharon would not be so kind, mostly do to the fact that the dead were not aloud to leave; with the only exception being if the reaper came for them. He had seen it happen a few times, the souls of those who had been dead for so long that nopony even knew who they were had been dragged off kicking and screaming while bound in chains by the reaper; the method in which they were dragged away was different most of the time but held no meaning. But he knew that Kharon had a weakness to greed and Greymane intended to exploit that to his advantage, his first stop was to seek out the demonic gods in the hope they could either give him a spell to restore his body or give him a new one.

As Greymane neared the great doors to the throne room he saw the two ponies standing just a few feet away from the door arguing, "I don't want to tell them the bad news any more than you do Fire Tail, but we have to." One of them said begrudgingly.

"Well then why don't you do it Firebolt?" Fire Tail blatantly said as she shoved him.

"No way not me..." Raising a hoof as he sat down he smiled while patting Fire Tail on her shoulder, "...how bout we both tell them?" Nudged Firebolt.

"And how do you think we do that?" She said with a mournful stare causing the young stallion to lower his head in thought.

As he pondered the situation he perked up, "I've got it...how about we open up with a joke?" Firebolt said with great optimism.

Annoyed by the situation Fire Tail poked at what holes she could find in the idea, "Like what? Knock knock, who's there, not Greymane cause he's vanished? Sorry Firebolt but I don't think it's going to fly. Not with royalty or any pony here, this is the Legendary Thief where talking about. We had him in our grasp and just like clapping your hooves to get a brighter day he's gone."

Continuing his optimism as he turned his back to Fire Tail while lowering his head as he gave it more thought, "What if we tell them in joke form..." Starting to chuckle he thought about how injured Greymane was and for him to have snuck off like he has did make the whole royal guard look somewhat inferior, "...I mean it's kinda funny after all that he's bested us so far given how injured he is. Right Fire Tail..." As he turned around he found that Fire Tail had gone missing without a trace of any kind, "...Fire Tail?" Walking away from the door he called out thinking she was pulling some kind of cruel prank, "...Come on this isn't funny."

As he walked down the hall he found Fire Tail wrapped up in the curtain and hanging upside down by her tail as though she was a caterpillar in a cocoon, turning to run and alert everypony in the throne room he found himself being dragged into the air by his tail, and left dangling only to hear sarcasm, "So...what was that about him getting the jump on us being funny?"

"Shut up Fire Tail." Stateing with a hint of annoyance in his voice.

Not being the one to pass up the opportunity to poke fun of other ponies or kick 'em when they're down so to speak, she continued to poke fun at Firebolt, "No, no~o, I want to hear this. Please continue from where you left of, I think it was, 'It's funny how he can get the drop on us because of how injured he is?' Am I right? After all you're the expert on this even though we're hanging from the ceiling."

As Firebolt's temper to slowly started to grow he tried to draw his mind of the situation, "Not now Fire Tail."

"You know I do see the humor in it, after all HE JUST GOT THE DROP ON US!" Pointing out the pain strikingly obvious clue, as if Firebolt was a useless detective. “Again might I add.”

"I get it Fire Tail now unless you have any idea as to how were getting down, then please...SHUT THE FUCK UP!" He exclaimed as he started to look around to see any signs of help.

Knowing it could be a while Fire Tail couldn't help but continue to patronize Firebolt, "Wait wait I've got one more..." Giving a seductively superior look at Firebolt she nearly laughed, "...Knock Knock?"

"... ... ...Who's there?" He inquired as he somehow managed to turn around and stare at Fire Tail through the cloth in annoyance.

"Greymane."

"Fuck you Fire Tail."

As they hung there for a moment Fire Tail couldn't help but laugh a little harder about the situation, "Hey what was it you said this morning? 'See a bit and pick it up, all the day you'll have good what?"

"You're not going to let this go are you?" Firebolt inquired not truly wanting to hear the answer.

"Not so long as we're up here."





As Greymane slowly made his way back to the giant doors he nearly collapsed from the pain, bringing his hoof up from his ribs where the pain came from he saw blood and knew there wouldn't be much time before he would pass out. As he came to the door he found it was locked by magic, not too hard for him to get pass, but it did make him wonder for the moment. The Dark Lords knew about him and the things he is capable of, so why would they use a magic lock when said lock would not hold him back. Taking a moment to look around the hall he couldn't find any traps and could only figure there might be a small band of greater demons just on the other side of the door waiting for him should he somehow manage to make it that far.

Walking up to it he figured if there were any demons on the other side two of them would be close enough to hear the lock, with this stern belief he whispered, ‘Iftah ya simsim.’

As the locks came on done the two guards just on the other side took immediate notice, "You didn't... ..."

Shaking his head the two guards drew Celestia's attention, as well as the attention of everypony in the throne room, "Is something wrong?"

"Sorry your Majesty, as a precaution we've taken the liberty to lock these doors ever since Greymane was given a room to rest and recover do to his injuries. As you may have already guessed we locked the doors with magic, and well..." Gently pulling the door as an example he looked back at everypony, "...they just came open." He said with a sign of concern.

Knowing it was their duty to stand strong and show no fear the other guard cracked the door just a tad more to stick his head out and have a quick look around, "I'll have a look to see who it is, more than likely it could be one of the other guards out he-"

As he looked outside of the doors they all watched as he was pulled out with a great ferocity as they all heard the loud clanking of metal hitting a wall, as well as a small skirmish. Attempting to be cautious the remaining guard stood center of the two doors as he used magic to slowly open them, only to be given a swift yet heavy hoof to the face causing him to become dazed and confused at the moment. As Greymane stumbled toward everypony his expression was a mix between hatred and disgust.

As he sat down he leaned next to a pillar, believing he was about to be in for a fight of his after life, "Dirty trick...disguising you're selves like that...DID YOU REALLY BELIEVE I WOULD THINK THEY COULD BE DOWN HERE? DID YOU REALLY THINK I WOULD FALL FOR YOUR TRICKS?" Sadly his injuries and slight blood loss were taking its toll and caused him to collapse, yet he never lost eye contact with anypony.

With a smile Twilight walked toward him hoping to find out what he was talking about, "Do you realize how silly you sound right now?"

"Don't play coy with me..." Struggling back to his hooves Greymane tried to ready himself for a fight, "...Tartaros is full of many tricksters, deceivers, and liars. I'm not so easily fooled. I don't care who you serve, but I demand that you stand aside and let me pass!" He exclaimed knowing it was no longer within his ability to try and fight at the moment.

Flying over and placing a gentle hoof on his shoulder Fluttershy tried to console him, "You're in the Castle of Canterlot, you're safe, the fight is over you won."

Struggling to brush her hoof off he stared at her with a mix of emotions stirring within him, the strongest ones being fear, determination, and hope, "Lie to me all you like I know all about the illusion spells that you demons use down here. And I'll be damned if you think I'll fall for any of them."

Having heard the recent commotion while walking by and taking notice of the unconscious guard just outside the doors, Luna came into the room as she held out the gourd toward him as she began to speak, "No pony here is lying to you, though you did die whatever the contents was in this gourd somehow brought you back to life."

As he slowly grabbed the gourd he looked up at Luna and coiled around her neck he could see the Leviathan unwrap himself still unseen by everypony but him, "How did you?"

Stepping forth with a faint smile Celestia began to explain, "Luna heard a strange voice instruct her to pour the contents of that gourd down your throat. And as you can see it saved your life."

Having taken a sudden interest in healing spells, potions, and items of that nature at the moment in time Twilight could find nothing relating to reviving the dead without horrible side effects, "What was in that if you don't mind us asking."

Uncoiling himself from around Luna the leviathan kept his astral form and flew over to Greymane as he spoke to him through telepathy, *It's okay to tell them what you believe is necessary, the times are changing and you will need all the help you can get. You're enemies are many and friends are far too few, I know you will make the right choice.*

Closing his eyes as he slowly exhaled he braced himself for any reaction he could get from telling them a small portion of the truth, "Its water..." Allowing himself to relax Greymane slid to the floor as he took a deep breath, "...from the fountain of youth. It's what has allowed me to live for so long. Its use is limited however, when the gourd is three fourths of the way gone it will no longer reduce the age of the user; But it will continue to revive and heal them as well as ward off death for a time, in a sense of things it grants temporary longevity."

With heavy hearts they lowered their heads believing they may have, in some small way, sentenced him to death, "...Sorry if we had known then..."

As Applejack tried to give an apology Greymane raised a hoof to stop her, "No..." Giving a smile he was more than relieved to know that he was alive and not trapped within the depths of Tartaros again, "...it was either use it all to save my life or none of it and leave me to my fate." Trying to hide the remorse he felt behind his smile Greymane looked on at them knowing that he was among friends who cared, "I'm glad all of you did what you could to save me."

Knowing he would not stay awake for much longer Pinkie couldn't help but poke away at his age as she pointed at Luna and Celestia, "If it was really water from the fountain of youth then why didn't it reduce your age you look the same to me. In fact  you don't look very old to me to begin with, it's not like you're as old as Princess Celestia or Princess Luna..." As the two of them looked at her Pinkie covered her mouth, "...oops, sorry."

As he started to lie down on the floor he rose the hoof that he remembered had been pierced by his bone, "Because the water healed me just enough to bring me back to life, as you can see the injuries are minor and will heal naturally over time. All life threatening wounds are healed first, if they weren't then how could I survive? And your right Pinkie I'm not as old as either of them, I'm just a little older than them. Why I remember when Luna was just a filly."

Just like piecing together a new outfit, Rarity gave a mournful smile as she pulled out his mask, "If the worst of them were healed first, then it's a good thing...here, I was able to repair the mask but your cloak is far too damaged I'm afraid. So I'm making something a little more presentable for you."

As he slowly fell asleep he smiled, "I'll find some way to pay for it, please excuse me..." Letting out an exhausted sigh Greymane closed his eyes, "...but...I need to take a small nap."

As he slept the medical mares took him from the throne room on a stretcher and back to the room where he started, this time taking the precaution to strap him down to keep him from reopening his wounds again. As he slept his darkest memory tormented him and he he could see it all happening once more, the fire, the countless ponies who died on that fateful night, his hooves, coat, and mane stained with blood, right down to the only moment of salvation he had when he heard the foals begging him to stop.

As he looked at them he watched as the foals in his nightmare began to melt as flames consumed them burning away their flesh, as they walked toward him saying the one thing that constantly plagued him, the one phrase that the many demons in Tartaros would never forget to say as a harsh reminder of what he did. It was soft at first like hearing a voice being carried by a gentle breeze, but as they drew closer it grew louder and heavier as if each word could break bones.

Once they were close enough to touch him the fillies jumped as they shouted, 'YOU'RE A MONSTER!'. As they knocked him over Grey could feel them biting into his flesh tearing off large pieces.

As the nightmare shocked him into waking up he found himself in a cold sweat panting heavily out of fear, looking at the parts of his body he felt had been torn off himself Grey saw that he was relatively safe, *I was afraid of this, I knew that with the loss of your memory you would have forgotten it, but in my haste I brought back far more than I had intended didn't I?*

Looking to his right he saw the leviathan coiled up like a snake on the desk still in his astral form, *How long have you been there?*

*Oh You know me I've always been near by, after all you're my advocate and there for under my protection. And I never should have doubted you, but fear took hold of me and I let it guide me. And for that I'm sorry, you and your predecessors have always done the right thing even if the methods all of you have chosen are a bit...eh...shall we say questionable.* He said as he looked at Greymane.

*No...* Looking at his hoof Greymane could see the blood and smell burning flesh, *...you were right. If I hadn't done what I did then none of this would have...* As the events of the past slowly consumed him he found it hard to even believe what the leviathan said.

Knowing how his advocate never truly moved past that night, the leviathan spoke only of what little truth he could find in the situation as he made eye contact with Greymane nearly blinding him, *What happened that night with the Order of Balance happened for a reason, you even saved a few lives and put them on a new path that gave them a chance. And if it wasn't you then it could have been somepony else and the situation could have been worse.*

*COULD HAVE BEEN? I AM THE WORST THING TO HAVE HAPPENED TO THIS WORLD...I DESERVE NOTHING WORSE THAN...than...* As he damned himself his mind as well as his emotions slowly sank into despair.

Stopping Greymane from going down his current path and giving up on life the leviathan pulled the medallion out from the astral plane and tossed it to him, *You deserve this.*

Quickly slipping his left hoof out of the restraint he caught the medallion, *The medallion of immortality...* Scoffing as he looked at the medallion Greymane felt he was undeserving, "...I don't deserve this.*

Speaking only the truth with the knowledge he possessed about the artifacts, the leviathan flew over and coiled himself on the bed as he smiled, *No you don't, in fact no pony or living creature deserves to have it. However the medallion never took any lives, it instead chose to take a different path and test you. It no longer makes the choice to use, it now wishes to be used and it has chosen you to help it make that first step.*

*But coveting immortality has cost me far too much.* As he turned to his left he saw Princess Luna sleeping next to the window in the moonlight, *And it would have cost me far more, perhaps even everything had I not forsaken it.*

*True, however your duty as my advocate isn't over with. And since you can no longer use the fountain of youth it would be the wisest move, as well as the best one, for you to keep it close by.*

As he stashed it in the drawer wrapped up in his mask he looked at Luna once more, *Why is she a sleep?*

*Oh...* Letting out a proud chuckle as if it was a fun little game worth his time the leviathan smiled, *...she saw you having a nightmare and tried to enter your mind to see if she could help. I knew what she would see so I blocked her, it is the worst moment in your life. And you never told her before, and it is best that you be the one to tell her and the issue not be discovered. Though she fought me as best as she could it wasn't too long before she tired out.*

Slipping his right hoof out of the restraint as he leaned over and gently brushed her mane with his left, *I saw you around her neck earlier, she didn't know you were there did she?*

Faintly laughing at the thought as he started to hover over Greymane, *No...I've reached a mastery with my astral form that others could only dream of, and unless I wanted her to see me she couldn't. No living creature can except for you. After all you're mind has expanded far enough to that point you can see me at will. And as for me being around her neck...well.* Pointing at Greymane's heart with his tail as he smiled the leviathan let out a slight sigh, *I know how important she is to you, after all she did what no pony could do to you. She stole your heart, so I chose to stay close by her and keep her safe till you where awake...* Giving him an annoyed look the leviathan couldn't help but give a half-hearted smile, *...and I should have known that when you first wake up you would cause quite the commotion.*

Smiling at the fact that he did over react and should have noticed the signs that he was alive, key ones being that the guards were far too easy even in the state he was in, *So then I continue on...being the legendary thief...I continue on being your advocate. If that isn't a kick in the flank then I don't know what is. So then what's my first task now that I'm back Xiuhtecutli?*

Looking up at his advocate he smiled, *Turquoise lord?* Letting out a humph as he nodded his head showing he agreed to the idea of the name, *...Has a bit of a ring to it. I'm sure in time I'll get use to it. As for now I just want you to rest and recover, after that I'll guide you to the Kingdom of the Changelings their leader Queen Chrysalis has found the enchanted ring of Astarte. It once fell dormant when its former owner perished of old age, it will become active in time. But if she learns that it can amplify her power one thousand fold it will cause far greater trouble. Recover this ring and lock it away.*

As he thought about it he scoffed, *The true purpose of the legendary thief...* Laying back down as he crossed his hooves behind his head only to soon discover that he couldn't help but smile, *...to keep power out of reach of the ones who can never control it or those who would abuse it. And now that I think about it, the changelings have a small stash of emotion crystals...if sold to the right pony they could fetch quite the price.* Though he joked about it he knew that one emotion crystal could equal about one thousand bits, but his real reason for wanting them was for a potion that he was slowly running out of.

Taking him a tad serious Xiuhtecutli stared at Greymane pondering what was going through his advocate's mind, *For what reason would you need to make a quick bit, not to cause you any grief but the orphanage that you aided is long gone.*

With a smile a small tear rolled down his face, *That doesn't mean I can't help out ponies that need it.*

*Should have seen that coming...but at least you finally learn why the lineage of the legendary thief is important. Keep the medallion as far as I can tell there will come a day when you will need it.*

*Fine...but I will not steal from Canterlot nor Ponyville.*

*If that is your choice then who am I to say other wise. You're free to do as you please. I just hope that we never have to encounter an artifact nor a dangerously enchanted item in either location.* Xiuhtecutli said with a smile.

Just before laying back down he looked at Luna one last time causing his heart to pause for a second before continuing and giving him a warm feeling he had not felt in a long time, *I have to ask a few questions.*

*Such as?* He inquired as he cocked an eyebrow

*Well first thing is...you're not really a leviathan are you?*

*I am...I am the last of my kind a fate that I caused, and in some ways regret, but it was necessary and let us leave it at that. After all we all have our secrets Greymane...even me.*

With a smile he scoffed at the answer he got, *Fair enough but one last thing...* Having kept his eyes on Luna for the moment he looked Xiuhtecuhtli in the eyes nearly blinding himself, *Is it even possible for me to have a family, I mean to just one day settle down and leave this life behind me?*

Knowing he could never answer the question Xiuhtecutli attempted to dodge the issue while staying close to it, *You're free to do as you please. Just remember that you will have far more enemies than any pony can ever understand. For now just rest and when you're ready to go back out into the world and resume to do what you have always done best. For now just get some rest.*

As he rested Greymane did all he could to keep his nightmare and the truth behind it hidden from everypony and put on a smiling face. One day when he was able to walk with out nearly stumbling over himself, they came to him with the book titled 'The Legendary Thief' written on the cover in gilded letters, it was then he knew they would ask about the stories written with in. They wanted answers, they wanted the truth, all he could do was tell them what was true, what was false. What he told them was just tails many ponies came up with, this however was his way to hiding the truth about the artifacts and the dangers that they held, dangers he knew from first hoof experience.





It was months before Greymane had made a full recovery, on the nearby dresser he found a gift from Rarity wrapped with care. As he opened it he found a coat that took the length of his body with a hood attached to it all in dark grey, the style of the decorations on it added a touch of mystery that almost seemed as though they wished to stay that way. It was a fine replacement to the cloak he lost...no not even close, it was a gift from a friend who cared. And his ticket out.

As he smiled he shook his head knowing that it could incriminate her, but only if they saw him with a tool of some kind or a length of rope, better to have plenty of options if necessary he thought, *Hey Xiuhtecutli...* Holding up the coat he turned to Xiuhtecutli, *...you wouldn't mind putting the enchantment on this for me...* Letting out a light chuckle as he smiled, *...you know the one.*

Nodding his head Xiuhtecutli drew upon an ancient magic known only to his kind. Opening his mouth he blew on the new coat casting the spell to allow it to slow the fall of whomever had it on, this would be his advantage since they never inquired about that at all. Of the many times it did pop up in the book they almost willingly gave him an answer for how they thought he was flying. While he blew on the cloak Greymane could feel the heat of his breath equal the same gentle heat of the mid-day sun, it made him wonder what the leviathans were like and what they could do, but that was a question for another time.

As he put on the coat and his mask he heard a knock on the door, "Its open." He replied with a shallow tone.

"The time has come." Stated one of the many guards waiting outside the room.

As he walked out of the room they parted the way and presented him with shackles and chains and though Luna wished this didn't have to be as such she tried to apologize, "We are sorry it has come to this, and we wish there could have been another way. However..."

"Say no more Luna, I understand. I knew one day this would happen, I can only be grateful that you and your sister have shown me mercy and grace of covering my face." He claimed as he raised his hooves and allowed himself to be bound in chains that were magically locked and escorted down the hall.

As they started to walk down the hall filled with guards on the ground and in the air armed to the teeth Twilight voiced her opinion, "This isn't right, after everything he did the least we could do is let him walk there without the chains."

Having heard this he stopped and placed his hooves on her shoulders, "No Twilight this is how it must be, I have many enemies in the world. Who knows how many of them are still alive, or have had descendants that harbor a grudge against me. Show any form of kindness, or leniency to me and they will come for you and every pony else close to you just to get to me. Besides I'll be alright, now why don't you and Luna go ahead and join every pony else. I'll be there shortly." Though his face was covered Twilight could still see a smile from behind the mask as a means to disband any doubt or fear she may have had.

As he stood back up he watched as Twilight and Luna took their leave and hurried to the throne room as the guard yanked on the chains, "Come now we can't keep the princess waiting."

Not being the one to keep tensions high for too long, Greymane couldn't help but poke fun of how the guard who pulled on the chain, "Not a problem..." Letting out a light laugh he kept his eyes on as many of the guards he could, "...now is this trial going to take place before or after you beat me into submission and have me call you daddy? And are you going to put a rubber ball in my mouth and call me a bad boy?"

Many around him couldn't help but laugh at the terrible joke, the guard holding the chain with magic however didn't and tried to turn it around on him, "Sure and maybe I'll tie you up as well with one of the smelliest prisoners we have."

"Oh you mean like I did to you and privet do-nothing here a few months back? By the way when was the last time either you had a bath I can still smell shame on both of you, or did the two of you have a little down time before coming up here?" Having said that caused several more of the guards to join in on the laughter, many of them still wouldn't let the two of them live it down.

Knowing he would just try to turn around anything they said the guards made the simple choice to keep their mouth shut. As they entered the throne room Greymane eyed the room, out of everypony there hidden among the members of the royal family, enraptured, prestigious families, and public officials from across Equestria, there were two ponies that caught his eye. The first being a mare with a maroon colored mane and tail, her coat was black with white stripes, her eyes where a light shade of velvet, and her cutie mark was an eye. Her appearance was intriguing to say the least and drew on Grey’s mind on whom she was, though she was the one who caught his attention in the crowd it was soon stolen by the stallion that stood next to her. 

He had on glasses and had a dirty white mane with a light blue tail, his coat was a coffee stain brown with aquamarine eyes. But it was not any of these that drew on his attention, sadly it was his false cutie mark caught his eye. The weight and scales tricking every pony around it to believe the young stallion into believing he was a banker or perhaps an accountant of some kind. Though the cutie mark appeared real in nearly all aspects there was a single second where Grey saw it fade only to return, no pony took notice of this and the young stallion stood tall and proud taking notes on the event of the day. Greymane recalled how the Order of Balance had often used false cutie marks to get ponies into areas they needed or in some cases to throw anypony off their trail, in the past they were painted or stained through some kind of process but this was a new method and caused Grey to worry how many members the Order could have in the room let alone Canterlot.

As they walked in Greymane lowered his head and took steady steps as he hid beneath his hood. As he made his way to the front of the walkway still escorted by guards, he could hear the whispers among the many ponies there. Many wondered if he was going to be granted amnesty for what saving Canterlot, others wondered if he would be locked away for life in the dungeon, where as some believed he would be executed but then pondered how they would kill the immortal thief, if he could be killed. He drowned out the whispers as he walked forward and sat before Celestia and Luna while Twilight and others sat in the front row on his right side.

As he looked up to make eye contact with both Princesses his mind was blank, and with his memories completely recovered he found it hard to look Luna in the eyes knowing that in the past he kept the truth from her.

As he took a deep breath Princess Celestia brought forth a scroll and began to read the charges against him, "Legendary Thief Greymane you stand here accused of countless acts of breaking and entering, theft, pickpocketing, impersonation of a guard, impersonation of public officials, and six counts of assault, as well as many other possible crimes that will require further investigation if at all possible. You also have one count of heroism, how do you plead?"

Trying to make light of the situation he attempted an anecdote. "You forgot lord of the dance.." Turning to look at the crowd behind himself he tilted his head as he nodded, "...I stole that title from a warlock. If you like I can dance a little jig to prove it but..." Looking back at Luna and Celestia he brought his hooves to the shackle on his neck and moved it around a bit, "...twiddle dumb-ass and twiddle-dip-shit over there put these shackles on too tight. And I think I am going to plead drunk, to be honest I think I'm about to pass out. Could you have the guard perhaps loosen the shackles just a tad?"

As a few ponies in the room started to snicker and giggle Greymane heard a few whisper, 'Well what do you know, trying to lighten the mood in the hopes of being let off easy.'

Whereas others would reply, 'You know he'll have to try harder than that.' Though he knew what the crowd behind him thought he looked on to see the reaction he got out of Celestia and the others, and while some of them were giggling Celestia held her state of mind. Though she did cover a smile with her hoof as she pretended to clear her throat.

"Despite what you might say, we won't remove the shackles." Celestia stated as she closed her eyes and shook her head.

"Well you can't blame me for trying, but I plead guilty on all charges." Before Celestia could continue Greymane saw Xiuhtecutli floating around the outside of the room, *Hey Xiuhtecutli, is any pony trying to read my mind right now?*

*Celestia has been trying but just like Luna she is having trouble. I've been blocking her ever since you first walked into the room.*

Looking over the charges and his recent acts, even the ones in Ponyville that were kept off record as to not incriminate anypony he came into contact with, Celestia began to present him with an ultimatum, "After all that you have done it was difficult to decide what to do. So I have come up with two options for you. The first is a sentence of no less than fifty years to life in the castle dungeons."

Making eye contact with her he knew that even if he made that choice the dungeons wouldn't hold him for long, but he didn't want to wait for the chance to escape at a later time, "And my other option?"

Looking over to her sister Luna they both nodded on the agreed upon decision that they believed befitted not only them but Greymane and the kingdom as well, "You are to join the royal guard and train ponies to be better prepared for situations much like what happened when the two demons attacked Canterlot. And in exchange we shall grant you amnesty within our kingdom."

Thinking over how to word thanks but no thanks he walked over to the window on his left. As the guards prepared for anything he could try, Greymane looked out the window and could see hundreds of pegasi in the sky above, and almost double that in earth and unicorn on the grounds below and surrounding roof tops. Spotting a cloud near by he came up with a plan of escape, not a good one but good enough.

*Xiuhtecutli, you see that cloud down there?*

*What about it?*

*I'll find some way to get into it if you can get my powder to me some how.*

*A little risky don't you think?*

*That's the point. Risky as hell and they won't be prepared for it.* As the leviathan got to work retrieving the last bag of powder, Greymane whispered to the shackles that bound him, 'iftah ya simsim.' As the locks came undone he carefully slipped off his shackles hoping nopony noticed, and prepared for the guards.

As the pegasi clustered together spears at the ready, the earth ponies and unicorns down below prepared for his attempt to jump, whereas the guards in the room slowly inched their way toward him, *That mare gave us an advantage when she made this coat for you, the last bag is in your right pocket.*

As he smiled he kept his eye on the cloud that slowly made its way near by, "It's a lovely day isn't it? The sun is shining, birds chirping, and I can even feel the gentle breeze. All of it screams freedom in its own language. Freedom that's what we all wish for isn't it?"

As the guards slowly moved in Celestia stood up from her throne, "You seem to be dodging the subject."

As the cloud came into position nearly fifty feet beneath the window he sat down, closed his  eyes and expanded his mind to feel out the room. He could feel each heart beat, he could hear everypony breathing, he could even anticipate the guards.

In his mind he plotted it out, 'The guards in this room will move in to grab me when I give my answer, when they do I'll toss these shackles at them. At the instant I toss them I'll roll out the window to keep the distance between me and the pegasi that are out there. I will have to time my fall, hoping I stay near the wall so I can push off to gain speed and fly right into the cloud and vanish.' As the guards took slow steady steps Greymane stood up, "I already gave my answer Celesta..." Turning his head to look at Celestia and Luna he smiled, "...when I said all of it screams freedom in its own language that was my choice." As the guards picked up the pace and started to gallop toward him, he turned and tossed the shackles straight at the hooves of the guards as he started to roll out the window in one fluid movement as he shouted, "I won't join the guard and I won't take imprisonment." Falling he shouted for all to hear, "Whether in a cell or in a suit of armor, I'll still be a prisoner!"

As the shackles hit one of the guards causing him to trip over themselves the guard rolled as he fell and tumbled over two other guards causing a bit of confusion as Greymane slipped out of their grasp, as he fell Grey watched as the pegasi started to make their move. As he fell down the side of the building the pegasi gave chase as he turned his body around and started to gallop down the tower wall to gain a bit of speed, when he was three fourths of the way to the cloud he curled himself up and pushed off the wall with all his mite allowing him to go straight into the cloud. As he flew into the cloud he pulled out his last sack of powder and slammed it against his body, to everypony that watched him go into the cloud they thought he found some way to hide within it despite being an earth pony.

"You fool will just break up the cloud." Shouted one of the pegasi as they all busted straight through only to find he was gone.

The second they saw he was not there they began to search the grounds knowing he couldn't have gone far. Many of the ponies there that saw the whole thing started to wonder if the old tales were true, could he really use magic, or did somepony help in his escape? As the guard searched the castle many had taken to searching the city leaving no stone unturned, the search went into the early to mid hours of the night before they gave up in the search believing he was long gone.





Having aided in the search for a while Princess Luna made her way to the tower to keep an eye on the city through the telescope. Keeping watch on the night as she always had, she started to ponder why she couldn't see into Greymane's dreams, and why couldn't Celestia see what he was planing. The two of them had always been able to see into the minds and dreams of ponies to better help them to prepare for the worst or help those who needed it the most, but Greymane however was able to block them somehow, or so they believed.

As Luna went about her duties while still pondering the possibilities she was startled by Greymane who had his hood pulled back and his mask hanging off his neck, "Wonderful night isn't it, to be honest I always preferred the night to the day. It grants me a form of clarity, and comfort that I can't get from the day."

Unable to wrap her mind around how he vanished from the guards and appear out of nowhere Luna took small steps back, "You're... ...but how did...why..."

"Don't worry I'm just here to talk..." Raising his hooves as he sat down hoping she didn't call for the guards, "...like we use to. And also to apologize..." As he set his hooves down he sighed as his head started to hang low, "...I heard about how you became nightmare moon, and in some way I can't help but feel that I'm the one to blame for it." He claimed just before he stared up at the stars in the night sky.

Seeing the blame he placed on himself Luna stood her ground in the belief that no pony was to blame for her shortcomings but herself, "Becoming Nightmare Moon was of my own doing. We became bitter towards my sister and allowed this bitterness to change us."

Lowering his head as he shook it in shame he looked at Luna, "You became bitter because you were angry at me, this was one of the many things that helped cause you to fall. I was told by the demons in Tartaros that you might not remember me or anything to do with me, and that most if not the vast majority of your memory would be blank. So I'll skip to where I made my mistake, I chose to keep my work as well as who I am a secret from you believing it would keep you safe. And one night because of a conflict with an old nemesis of mine you discovered the truth, when you did you grew angry with me. It was because of me that you fell and became Nightmare Moon. And for that, I am sorry. I swore to be there for you when you needed me the most I wasn't there the night of your banishment so I failed you as a friend."

"Even if you had been there what could you have done? The change came from with in." Inquiring his prior statement wondering what he was hiding.

As he walked passed Luna he narrowly opened his eyes as he stared at the ground, "There was plenty I could have done, I could have talked to you, I could have tried to calm you down and explain myself to you as to why I kept that secret. And even if that didn't work I would have searched the world for any means to save you and spare you the thousand years of banishment. Luna I would do anything for you..." As he turned around to face Luna he rushed her and wrapped his hooves around her as he started to confess the truth he started to cry, "...I would have taken in all that darkness and evil that changed you if that is what it took. Luna I failed you because I lied to you and attempted to block out my feelings for you. I fell in love with you a long time ago, and that love for you has done nothing but grow. I learned why it is I do the things I do, I remove the dangerous and powerful items from the reach of those who should never have them under the title of a thief, not because it helps to protect the world by giving everypony a common enemy. But to protect the ones I care about, to protect those I love."

‘Greymane!’ She whispered

As he let go he pulled the hood of the coat over his head and put his mask back on as he walked toward the ledge, "I didn't say that to get a reaction or to learn how you feel about me. I know it would be impossible, after all you're a princess, and I'm just some good-for-nothing thief. I'm sorry Luna truly I am, after tonight I shall return to the shadows and never darken any doorway that belongs to any of you. And in time perhaps everypony will forget I was ever here."

Hoping to find some clarity as to what he meant about the dangerous items that he hadn't mentioned before she place her hoof on his shoulder, "It's okay but why didn't you mention this before? If you do this to help the world why hide it, and why turn down the offer my sister and I gave you? If you join the guard you would never have to work alone, and you could be closer to me like you wish. And you would have the full support of my sister and myself, as well as plenty of help to aid you."

Placing his hoof over hers there was no doubt in his mind that he would share the secrets he kept, "No, I have to work alone. Would an entire nation slaughter a small village in a neighboring country if they were looking for one pony? The answer is yes but only if that pony was under the command of the other nation. However if both rulers were looking for the same pony they would be careful not to start a war and work together to hunt down the one pony. If I join the guard here in Equestria then I would put this kingdom in danger. I have to look at the bigger picture just like how you and Celestia keep the balance of harmony in Equestria just as every ruler does over the world, I have to tend to the balance of power throughout the world. The thousand years of peace and tranquility while I was gone was nothing more than a gift, if not a fluke."

"Will you tell me what these items are?"

Turning around to look her in the eyes he gently placed her hoof on the ground, "Only because it's you Luna, and because I owe you that much. Most of the times it's just an enchanted item that was created to give far too much power to ponies that should never have it, or could never control it. Other times it's enchanted items that took a large group to create and has the destructive power to make a mega spell seem like a magical burp from a newborn unicorn. But on the rarest occasions it's something called an Artifact, so far I have thirteen of them each one has a mind of its own and will chose to either use or be used by whomever posses them, I do not know how many there are in the world but what I do know is that you and Celestia have what I like to call an Artifact Set here in Canterlot. I won't steal the Elements of Harmony because they have chosen to do a rare thing. They chose to be used by ponies and they pick out their users by using key characteristics found deep in their hearts, characteristics that can never truly be taken away from them or changed. Because of this they are not a threat to the world, so I chose to leave them alone."

Knowing that trying to read his mind would lead nowhere Luna tried to learn more, "Why not just talk to ponies about these items so they can give them up willingly?"

Knowing she was only hoping to help him find another way to deal with the artifacts Greymane shook his head knowing what they are truly like from first hoof experience, "If you knew you had the power that could shake the world down to its foundation and make even the dark lords and gods of Tartaros tremble in fear like a newborn foal, would you be willing to give up that power? Could you give up that power if it has already claimed your mind? The answer to these questions is no, when an artifact has chosen to use whomever it comes in contact with; it will send subtle messages to the mind of its host until that pony and in some cases a dragon, or worse, believe the thoughts are their own. Even the weakest of artifacts can force a war between nations, and has the power to wipe out half a continent."

Hoping to find a middle ground and some insight into what he knew Luna continued to poke away at his knowledge, "Has anypony ever tried to control these artifacts?"

Lowering his head in shame and disgust for himself he turned away and started to leave knowing that she would eventually figure out or learn as to how he knows they can't be controlled, "Plenty..." Though the expression on his face was from his own failure Luna thought it came from him failing to stop somepony out there, "...but attempting to control them would be like me trying to make you and Celestia do what I want. On top of that any artifact that chooses to use and in many cases eventually possess their users, making them their host body." He warned her speaking from prior experience, "It is rare that any creature breaks free from their hold."

Knowing that he could no longer use the fountain of youth she took a step toward him, "You know you can't live forever, and one day you will need help."

As he looked around the base of the tower for a safe yet undetectable rout out of the castle and the city he knew that she was right, "Then when that day comes all I can hope for is that the world doesn't need me any longer, and that I am granted the gift of retirement. And if I'm given that gift then I'll come back here to spend the rest of my years in peace." Walking to the railing he began to hoist himself up, "Farewell Luna, and may the years be kind to you and your sister."

As he began to lean over the railing Luna grabbed hold of the corner of his coat, "Wait."

"I won't answer any more questions dealing with the artifacts. The less you know the safer you will be. After all I'm not the only pony looking for them." He stated hoping she would let go.

"We don't have any further questions, but we would like to give you something." She said as she pulled out a small scroll.

Turning around he could see the calm confident look in her eyes as he reached for the scroll, "What's this?"

"There is a wedding coming up, that's an invitation from us, and we figured perhaps you and I could talk some more then. Perhaps you could help fill in the blanks in our memory?" Luna inquired as she gave a small smile.

Tucking the invitation away in his coat as he leaned back on the railing and chuckled, "If I'm in town around then I'll find a way to come talk to you. After all I am a thief, and not very well liked around here. But I would very much enjoy to just spend time with you and talk, even if it's just for a minute."





With a smile he rolled over the railing and left, fearing for his safety Luna gave chase hoping to catch him before he hit the ground only to find he had simply vanished. Giving the area a thorough search she found no trace of him to be found anywhere, just like at his trial earlier that day Greymane had disappeared. As she went back up to the top of the tower to keep watch over Canterlot, Greymane slipped out from behind a small bush of vines hidden by the shadow of the tower and slowly climbed down.

*Are you sure that was a good idea telling her all of that? What if she tells Celestia and they start looking for the artifacts, then what? You would have made an enemy out of the one you love.* Xiuhtecutli scolded as Greymane neared the base of the tower.

Looking back up with a feeling of great relief he smiled, *I don't think so, Celestia knows to balance power with reason and Luna understands what it means to fall to corruption. But then again she and I both know this from first hoof experience.*

*And what about telling her how you feel, surely there could be some kind of backlash from it. Even for you.* Xiuhtecutli worried as he started to shake his head in disbelief.

Setting his hooves on the ground he slowly walked away, *I told her because I don't see a princess. I see a beautiful mare who has a caring and loving heart...but even if I don't know how she feels about me, in some way it makes me feel better knowing I said it. But I wonder...who does this hurt more, her or me? Oh well...* With a sigh he looked back on the happier times he spent with Luna, *...and hey who knows maybe one day I could just leave this all behind me and see where this avenue takes me.* Scoffing at the idea that he would have more time at the end of this long road to even try, he remembered how his father loved somepony but could never act on it and that was his only regret, in fact it was the only regret all of his predecessors had according to the last entry in their diaries, *Thanks for bringing my climbing equipment, now let's get out of here before I start to cry and change my mind then attempt to find an excuse to stay here.*

Thinking back to earlier that morning Xiuhtecutli recalled how Greymane's eye stayed fixed on a single pony in a crowd of a few dozen. *Speaking of you're mind, just before the trial I could tell something had brought forth a deep rooted hatred in you. What happened?*

Reflecting back to his last encounter with the Order of Balance, he slowly made his way to the entrance of the crystal cavern, *The last time I came into contact with the Order was nearly one month before I went after the medallion.*

*Yes you're single greatest nemesis was the one you spoke to. If I'm not mistaken he has a bastardized form of immortality from the artifact he managed to get his hooves on.*

Remembering the last time they spoke Greymane recalled the artifact and how it allowed him to take over the body of anypony who didn't have the willpower to reject him, *Yes, he called it the Possessing Amulet but that's just one problem. He said they started to rebuild after what happened, and the pony I saw today at the trial keeping notes on the whole thing, he had a false cutie mark. What if he was telling the truth and the Order has gotten back to its former numbers? And what if he's manipulating things here in Canterlot? I can't just leave Luna in danger I have to...*

Knowing Greymane would put aside his duty to deal with the Order first believing them to be the greater threat than any of the artifacts or enchanted items Xiuhtecutli quickly pulled Greymane away from the entrance from the cavern, *As my advocate your duty is to the world first. Go and retrieve the ring from the changeling kingdom. And if this problem truly bothers you then I'll look into it for you, I'll even stay close by Luna and grant her my protection if that's the case.*

Smiling as he slowly started to make his way back through the crystal cavern to his home, he stopped for a brief moment and looked up toward Canterlot, *Thanks, that's all I can ask for.* Having heard the sound of his hoof making contact with metal Greymane looked down to find a set of tracks, *It seems somepony was digging here, good thing they never found the cave.*

Turning to fly back up to Princess Luna Xiuhtecutli left Greymane knowing he could not protect him on this journey, *Be careful, the changelings are masters at turning your emotions against you.*

As he continued to make his way home he vanished behind a cluster of crystals, *And I'm a master thief. They can't trick me if they can't catch me.* Boasting as he began to plan out his heist, "Let's see last I remember I should have half a bag of sleeping powder, and I'll need to make more of the smoke powder. I wonder if any more poison joke grew in the garden. I know it's been a thousand years but the garden is enchanted to take care of itself." As he came to the cave wall leading him home he heard the growling of his stomach. "I should also get myself something to eat while I have the time."

As he got to work preparing for his first heist in one thousand years he over looked an old map of the changeling empire hoping not much had changed. He knew that sneaking in wasn't the problem, the problem was remaining undetected long enough to steal the ring as well as a few gem stones and emotion crystals then get out, the maps may have been old but with him being gone for so long there was a good chance that they never changed the location of the queen's chamber or the vault, both where the target. But while he was in the castle Greymane took a new map of Equestria and started to search for the right place he could fence maybe one or two the emotion crystals of the batch he planned on stealing, and for places where he could sell the gems he would more than likely take as well. But out of the corner of his left eye he saw something that drew his attention.

Walking over and sitting down he raised his hoof to the old painting of the orphanage. Him, his sister, and everypony that was there, it was painted one year before he left to find work that had put him on the path to become who he is today. Looking at it he placed his hoof on the painting and pulled it down to see his old hoof writing, under a few of them he saw the words adopted. Knowing what had happened and how long he had been gone he saw the quill still sitting in ink, reaching over he slowly pulled it out and brought the tip of the quill met with the painting. Sadly he knew what he had to write and yet he was hesitating to write the word deceased as his guilt swelled up within him. Sitting there unable to move the quill Greymane closed his eyes as he instead wrote across the top of the painting in bold letters 'NEVER FORGET', it was a reminder to himself of what once was as well as a guide to help light the dark blurry path filled with uncertainty that now lay before him.

As he turned to get back to work he saw an old hoof drawn picture hanging on the wall near the garden, on it was an image of him and Luna back when she was just a foal above one figure was written 'Me', and above the other 'Grey', just under the two figures he saw the words 'Fwends Forever'. Smiling as he walked away from it he entered the garden to find plenty of poison joke had grown as well as an overgrown herb and spice section, but all he wanted was just one apple and a few leaves of poison joke. As he carefully gathered the poison joke he would need for making the smoking powder he started to prepare his mind to better deal with the changelings should they discover him.

By the end of the second week he was prepared to venture off and deal with the changelings. Taking with him all of his climbing gear, the sleeping powder, and six one ounce bags of smoking powder, he greeted the moon and night sky with a smile, 'I've been given a second chance, let's not mess this up.' He thought to himself as he walked out of the cave, looking up toward Canterlot he smiled as he whispered, "Stay safe everypony."