Twilight Sparkle has read tons of stories, but they have always been fictional. After she comes into possession of the manuscript for a story called "Departure," a simple search for the author quickly becomes a fight for survival. A dark presence engulfs Ponyville, much like what happens in the story. Ponies touched by this dark presence become Taken - murderous, shadow-veiled shells of their former selves. It is up to Twilight and her friends, along with the help of an original character, to utilize the power of light and fight off the Dark Presence.

This is a crossover between MLP: FiM and Alan Wake.

WARNING: This story may come off as confusing to the untrained reader, as the chapters tend to progress out of order. It's a technique very similar to what authors like William Faulkner used. If you do not understand something, your question will most likely be answered in a later chapter. If not, I will try my best to answer questions in the comments.

This is also my first real fan-fiction, so suggestions as to how I can improve are always welcome, but I would prefer thoughtful criticism as opposed to flaming or other...over-dramatic responses.