An Unexpected Trip to Equestria

by Anonomis

13 Camping

Three months after the Friendship Games were held in May was the school camping trip and Brian was surprised to be going. Twilight was still adjusting to the change in school and actually having friends for the first time.

“Huh, Camp Everfree,” Brian said as he looked at the pamphlet he was given, “Principal Celestia wanted to take us, but I haven't been camping in ages.”

He went into the closet and pulled out his dad’s sea bag. The bag itself stood about three feet tall and about eighteen inches across.

“I haven't needed you for a while. Let’s see: sleeping bag, camo uniforms with olive undershirt, swimming trunks and towel; check. Probably best if I bring the ghillie suit in case shit happens. Other than that, the last two things I need are my old man’s hatchet and med kit.”

As he fell asleep he was transported to the dreamscape to see Ignis.

“Since we’re going camping, you know that I refuse to help this time if shit happens; and it will. Fire breathing dragon and wood don’t go together and neither of us want to start a forest fire,” Ignis stated

“Yeah, I know. Honestly, I hoped to have a quiet week, but we know that’s not going to happen. The six; or rather, seven, now with the Twilight from this world included are trouble magnets. With this knowledge, something is expected to happen and this time I’m leaving it solely to them,” Brian said

“Do you regret becoming friends with them? Otherwise, would you have been with Octavia only,” Ignis asked

“Not at all. Octavia knows that I’m married and never cared that I spend time with Sunset and the others,” he said

In the morning he decided on wearing one of the camo uniforms and combat boots. As he was getting ready, the girls gathered outside his house so they could walk together.

“Come on,” Rainbow Dash called

“One moment,” he yelled through the door

He threw the hatchet and med kit in the bag and locked it up before heading out. As the reached the school, he stuck his bag in the undercarriage and climbed on.

“What’s with the camouflage? Expecting something,” Twilight asked

“No, my dad and I would wear camo when we went camping although I haven't been camping in years,” Brian answered

“99 bottles of,” Snips started to sing

“So help me Ignis; do not sing that song. I repeat: DO NOT sing,” Brian demanded

“What do you have again that song,” Vice Principal Luna asked

“The worst and longest song ever written. I’d rather not hope to hear 99 bottles on repeat without counting down,” he answered

“Well, there goes that fun. We actually were going to annoy everyone with that,” Snails pouted

“Glad you didn’t or I’d be slapping the back of your heads 99 times,” Brian retorted

“That would give us brain damage,” Snips said

“If you only had a brain,” Brian sang causing some laughs as Snips and Snails stuck their tongues out

The rest of the ride passed without event until Twilight screamed, possibly having a nightmare, but Brian had a feeling what it was about.

“Stop,” Twilight exclaimed partially sleeping

“We can’t stop silly. We’re almost there,” Pinkie said

Although Twilight was accepted by Sunset and the others after their fight with Midnight Sparkle, he knew she was still plagued by what happened, even if she didn’t want to talk about it. After his eyes changed, he was still cautious about the event as well.

“Alright everyone, we’re here,” Principal Celestia said causing everyone to cheer

Brian grabbed his bag and upon setting it in the ground, proceeded to open it long enough to retrieve two items before closing it up again. He strapped the med kit on his right thigh and the hatchet on the left.

“What are those for,” Celestia asked, raising an eyebrow

“The med kit is in case of emergencies. It has gauze, Band-Aids, bandages and a pair of scalpels,” was the answer

“And why are scalpels included in a medical kit,” Vice Principal Luna asked skeptically

“My old man was a Navy Captain and always carried one in battle. He told me that as long as he had it, his men never needed it,” Brian answered

“We hope you follow the trend of not needing it,” Celestia said

“So do I,” he replied

“Alright everyone gather around,” a sweet voice called

“I am Gloriosa Daisy, and this is my brother, Timber Spruce. We are your counselors here at Camp Everfree,” Gloriosa said

“Let’s get everyone their sleeping quarters,” Timber said

“Girls go to Timber; Boys will be here,” Gloriosa called

Brian deliberately took the last spot in line to get a chance to tell her what he planned.

“Gloriosa, do you mind if I slept outside of the tents,” Brian asked

“Are you sure? No one has ever slept outside before,” she said

“I’m sure. My father took me camping enough that I don’t mind,” he said

“We’ll have you stay behind the boys tents,” she decided

“Thank you very much.”

“So what tent are you in,” Octavia asked him as they were joined by Twilight and the others

“Tent? I don’t need a tent. I’ve got my sleeping bag and I’m going to sleep outside,” he said

“You sure? There are beds for a reason,” Sunset asked

“Positive. My father took me camping and a few times and we slept under the stars, even with the tent,” Brian said, “You okay, Twilight? Still bothered by Midnight Sparkle?”

“You have no idea,” Twilight replied simply

“Actually, I do. You’re not the only monster here,” he replied

“Let's head into the clearing to talk,” Sunset suggested

“Another time. I don’t want to talk about it now,” Twilight argued

“Whenever you want to, we're here for you,” Sunset said

“Thanks. Hopefully this week will be fun,” Twilight said

“Agreed. I haven't been camping in so long."

After getting settled in at the camp Brian was informed by Gloriosa and Timber that although he could sleep outside, his bag would need to be stored in one of the male tents.

“Who’s up for archery,” Gloriosa asked

“Oh yeah,” Rainbow Dash yelled excitedly

“I’ll join,” Brian said

“You shoot,” Dash asked surprised

“You have no idea.”

Gloriosa led the group to a clearing where Timber set up two logs to use as backing and attached bull's-eyes to the front.

“Before we shoot, do you mind helping with something, Timber? You throw the apple and I’ll try and shoot it,” Brian asked

“Uh, sure. Glad you’re not planning on shooting it off my head,” Timber said with a shaky voice

“I wouldn't pull a ‘William Tell’ on anyone,” Brian said, much to Timber’s relief and confusion

Brian notched an arrow and nodded for Timber to throw the apple. Everyone was surprised when he not only managed to shoot the apple but score a bull’s-eye as well.

“Nice shot,” Dash said slapping him on the back

“How’s about a little competition. You versus me. Three shots each, highest score wins,” Brian suggested

“You’re on. Don’t complain when you lose,” Dash said smugly

“Ladies first,” Brian said “clear the way, range is hot!"

“Huh,” Dash said

“Simple, letting everyone know not to be in the firing range. My old man taught me to shoot,” he said simply

Dash notched her first arrow and managed to score a 10 point bull’s-eye causing her to cheer.

“Yes! Take that!”

Her other two shots were 9 and 8, respectively.

“27 points, huh? Well I’ve got my work cut out for me,” he said casually

His first shot scored 10 points, which surprised her. Brian notched his second arrow and tried not to move so much to alter his aim. As he fired, everyone was shocked to see the arrow split the first in half. Repeating the process, the last arrow also managed to score a bull’s-eye and split the previous as well.

“I’ll see your bull’s-eye and up you three,” he said taking a bow causing everyone to cheer

“How? I didn’t think you would be that good,” Rainbow Dash said trying to comprehend what happened

“I told you my old man taught me to shoot. I’m an expert marksman with pistols and rifles, having learned at a young age and got into archery for fun but still manage to score mostly bull’s-eyes,” he said

Brian reached to his left side and withdrew his hatchet. He threw it at the target, causing it to slice cleanly through the arrow before retrieving it.

“Killer accuracy,” Timber commented

“Probably could become a sniper if I wanted,” Brian said “Who's next?”

Afterwards Brian handed the bow to anyone who wanted to try as he decided to head to the tent where his bag was.

“What are you going to do now,” Dash asked

“I’m going swimming,” he responded casually

Brian closed the tent and reached into the sea bag and withdrew the olive swimming trunks. Thankfully no one else came by as he stripped out of his uniform and into the trunks and grabbed the towel.

As he walked out to the dock, there was a log stump that he found and rolled down the end, stopping a foot from the edge. Sunset and the others decided on joining him and most of the seven retired into their cabins to change into their swimsuits.

“What’s the log for,” Gloriosa asked

“A vaulting point. Just don’t allow anyone to follow what I’m about to do,” Brian answered

“Alright,” she said confused

“Geronimo,” Brian cried

The girls came out of their cabins to see Brian running down the dock to the log, where he planted one foot on it to increase his distance towards the water. As he reached the end he arched his back causing him to rotate and head towards the water at 90 degrees clasping his hands together as he entered, almost completing a full moonsault. Timber removed the log before the girls, including Octavia, jumped in the water.

“I give that entry a 7 out of 10,” Dash said

“8, make it 8,” he said faking sadness

“Why 8, darling,” Rarity asked

“8 is perfectly symmetrical. It can be divided vertically or horizontally and still matches. Please say 8,” he pleaded

“Fine. 8 out of 10,” Dash said with a sigh

“Yahoo! Believe it,” he cried as Sunset face palmed

“How many different anime are you going to use,” Sunset asked

“What? I like anime, so what,” he said

After swimming around for a while, he swam to the edge near the grass and walked out. He dried off and threw the towel on the ground as he stretched out on it. The girls decided to leave as well and Brian had a perfect view of an impromptu swimwear fashion show.
Pinkie, Applejack and Twilight were the only ones not there for various reasons. Fluttershy wore a yellow one piece with pink lacing on it, Rainbow Dash surprisingly wore a black bikini. Sunset’s was mixed with a yellow bikini top and red bottoms, while Rarity wore light purple with diamond designs on it, leading Brian to assume she made it herself. As she came out, Rarity turned around as if participating in a fashion show to show off every inch of her outfit. Even Octavia wore a gray bikini with various musical notes scattered around it.

Although they were his friends, Brian was trying not to stare. While he was male and wouldn’t have cared normally, he still was married and didn’t want to think of his friends in a sexual way.

Deciding to relax, he closed his eyes and took a little nap for about an hour before being rudely woken up. A cracking sound resonated causing him to bolt upright and looked towards the dock to see it broken. Glancing over, Brian noticed his uniform and boots sitting there which he was thankful for. With the time he was sleeping, his shorts were completely dry and he got dressed and went to see what happened.

“What the hell happened?”

Brian noticed there were holes in the dock’s floor that weren't there previously. Considering how old the dock probably was, he guessed it was only a matter of time before something happened.

“Karabast,” he said looking at the damage

“What are we going to do? The runway for the fashion show is ruined,” Rarity complained

“Dock,” Sunset and Dash corrected

“Gloriosa, do you happen to have some paper and pencil I can use,” Brian asked

“I’ve got this,” Gloriosa replied as she left to retrieve the requested items

Brian walked around the dock to survey the damage and see what could be salvaged.

“Timber, just how old is this dock?”

“Nearly ten years. Why do you ask,” Timber replied

“Coming from a construction point of view to see what, if anything, can be salvaged,” Brian said

Gloriosa returned and Brian set to work drawing up blueprints with the same dimensions as the previous to reuse as much as possible.

“So far, the flooring needs to be replaced along with the broken pillars in the aft,” Brian explained

“That’s not so bad. You have the blueprints drawn up and I’ll lead the construction crew on getting everything done,” Applejack said

“That’s just the damage I can see. The full extent is unknown. For all we know, there could be more cracks in the other pillars,” he said

“Let’s make this out gift to the camp,” Dash decided

“Total overhaul on the dock?”

“Why not? We pull everything out and see what’s useable,” AJ added

With Applejack leading the construction crew and Brian overseeing operations, they managed to pull out everything and put aside parts not useable in the course of a few hours.

“Broken parts will be gone through later,” Brian directed

“What’s the point,” someone asked

“Depending on the damage, the broken sections could get cut off and reused as part of something else,” Brian said

“Let’s leave things here and eat,” Gloriosa stated

After eating, Brian borrowed a flashlight and decided to check the remaining pieces and found a few more pieces that were ruined in sections but once they were removed, the rest could be made into something else.

“Gather around the campfire everyone,” Timber called “Does anyone know about the legend of Gaea Everfree?”

“Wood nymph and protector of the forest? Can’t say I ever have,” Brian said

“How’d you know that,” Twilight asked

“We’re at Camp Everfree, it’d be reasonable that the guardian has something to do with this location,” he replied

Brian figured the story Timber was going to tell but decided to keep quiet so the others can hear it. Timber mentioned that the spirit of Gaea Everfree would eventually reclaim the camp.

“Anyone else have a scary story,” Timber asked

“I do, and it’s true. Long ago, medicine was not so good as it is now. Doctors were known to make mistakes in diagnosis and would pronounce some people dead that weren't. Something put them in a death-like state that when they were buried, they would leave scratch marks on the lid.”

Brian paused to catch his breath as there were gasps among the group before continuing.

“In order to prevent the incident from happening again, wires were set attached to the body that led to a bell at the surface. If it rang, they were dug up, much to their relief. Later, the phrases ‘saved by the bell’ and ‘graveyard shift’ came from this event.”

“Never heard of that happening,” Twilight said

“Unfortunately, this did. It’s probably better then having a cage surrounding the grave to prevent vampires from rising,” he replied

“Vampires aren’t real,” Twilight countered

“We know that know, but people back then didn't,” he said matter-of-factly

“Point taken,” Twilight said dropping the subject

“Bedtime everyone,” Gloriosa said

A while later it was time for everyone to head to bed and Brian joined them. He grabbed the bag from inside the tent and walked behind it and removed the sleeping bag. Before crawling inside, he took off the boots and med kit but left the hatchet on out of habit. Although Ignis said he wasn’t going to help, Brian was still transported to the dreamscape.

“There is magic present here. I can’t say to whom but it’s not related to Twilight and Midnight Sparkle,” Ignis said

“Well, that’s good but it probably won’t cheer Twilight up. She’s still sulking from the Midnight Sparkle incident.”

“Can’t say I blame her, especially after what I almost did,” he retorted

“I thought we were over this,” Brian asked
“We are, but I’m still haunted by it.”

Some time in the morning Snips and Snails crept out of their tent and unzipped Brian’s sleeping bag.

“If you don’t want to get hurt, I suggest leaving now,” Brian said keeping his eyes closed

Snips stepped closer to Brian and in the blink of an eye, had extended a leg between Snips, causing him to fall where Brian proceeded to lock a calf crusher submission hold on him.

“Say ‘uncle’,” Brian demanded

“Uncle,” Snips said tapping out

“Say ‘grandma Moses makes munchy meat most Monday mornings’,” Brian ordered

“Grandma Moses makes munch, munch, munch. I can’t,” Snips said

“What is the meaning of this,” Principal Celestia demanded

“Ask them,” Brian said releasing the hold

“Well,” Celestia asked

“We unzipped his sleeping bag to get him back for making fun of us when he grabbed Snips,” Snails explained

“You attacked them,” Vice Principal Luna asked

“In self-defense only. They unzipped the sleeping bag and I warned them to leave if they didn’t want to get hurt,” Brian said

“You two need to stop pranking students and you, Brian, don’t need to jump to attacking others,” Celestia said

“Aye, aye,” Brian replied sarcastically while snapping to a salute

After everyone had breakfast they went back to rebuilding the dock and managed to finish by noon.

“Well, that’s done. Now let’s hope no,” Twilight started before Brian put a hand on her mouth

“Never say that. The last thing we need is to tempt Murphy,” Brian said releasing her

“Who’s Murphy,” Twilight asked

“Murphy’s Law. What can go wrong will go wrong,” he said

“Never heard of it,” she said

“Just don’t ask that question.”

“It’s not very scientific,” she mused

“You’re right, I’m just superstitious about that.”

“Fine,” she relented

“Let’s try to enjoy the rest of the week,” Sunset said

“Agreed,” everyone said in unison

After Gloriosa held a small ceremony to celebrate the building of the new dock, Brian retrieved his bag and let her know he planned to take a hike. He noticed Twilight sitting alone in a clearing.

“Penny for your thoughts,” he said casually

“You wouldn't understand,” she said

“Try me.”

“It’s about what happened at school months ago,” she started

“Midnight Sparkle. Whether you like it or not, she’s as much a part of you as Ignis is to me.”

“How did you do it,” Twilight asked

“After we get home, how’s about the eight of us head to my house for some explanations?”

“Sure,” she said heading back to camp somewhat cheered up

After their chat, he continued walking and found he was near the quarry, where they were told not to go. He figured as long as he didn’t go into the area nothing would matter. For all he knew, he was turned around and heading towards camp.

On the way back he passed by the office and heard Timber say something about ‘letting it go’ before leaving. Deciding what was best, he left and kept quiet about it as he could only speculate as to the meaning.

“What were you thinking,” Rarity yelled at AJ

“Sorry, all of a sudden you felt light,” Applejack said

‘Great. They're getting powers,’ he thought

As he continued walking he saw a bunch of animals near Fluttershy that confirmed his theory along with a loud ‘BOOM’ coming from the kitchen as Dash ran by at high speed.

“Let’s see: Dash has speed, AJ has strength, Fluttershy can talk to animals and Pinkie has explosives,” he said

A loud bang was heard and Brian saw a small portion of the dock broken with a boat being thrown into it.

“Again!? Take two on rebuilding,” he said exhaustedly

“Don’t worry. You wrote up the plan and it doesn’t look to be much damage,” Applejack said reassuringly

“I leave it up to you.”

“Brian what’s up, you’ve been gone for a while,” Sunset asked, touching his arm before withdrawing

“You okay? You look like you’ve seen a ghost,” Brian asked her

“I saw two flashes. I can read people's thoughts,” Sunset answered shaking her head to clear the image

“I know what you saw. When we get home, how’s about the eight of us meet at my house,” he suggested

“Can I come as well, Brian. Whatever you tell them I can handle,” Octavia asked

“Yeah. It’ll be best if all of you are there anyways as I’d hate to repeat the information,” he said

With the conversation finished; he decided to check on Twilight to see how she was doing.

“Hey Twilight mind if I come in,” he asked

“What do you need,” she replied

“I wanted to check on you after you left.”

“The boat was crashed by me. The other day Sunset saw everything in this room floating due to my magic going crazy,” she said sadly

“The boat wasn’t crashed by you. There’s Equestrian magic here belonging to someone else,” he answered

“How do you know?”

“Ignis told me. He can sense the presence but not to the exact owner,” he said

“I need to go for a walk after everything you’ve told me,” she said leaving

“Where’s Twilight going,” Sunset asked

“To take a walk. I’d suggest going after her, just in case.”

“Gotcha,” Sunset said running after her

Brian grabbed his bag and trailed behind as he felt something bad was going to happen. As soon as he was out of sight, he opened the bag and withdrew the ghillie suit and threw it on. The bushes helped to conceal him as he started crawling through them towards the quarry. He kept his head down as he saw Gloriosa floating towards the camp with an appearance akin to Timber’s story of Gaea Everfree.

“Gloriosa? What the hell did you do?”

As he reached the quarry Brian noticed a huge bolder blocking a cave entrance and guessed Twilight and Sunset were trapped inside.

“Ignis, grant me strength,” he said as he started pushing

To his surprise, the bolder started to move opening up the cave.

“Gloriosa, you’ve returned,” a shocked Sunset asked

“Not her. It’s me. Get back to camp ASAP and stop her,” Brian said

“What are you wearing,” Twilight asked

“Answers later, save camp now,” he stated

“What about you? Aren’t you going to help,” Sunset asked

“Not this time. I’ll cause greater problems. Now get going,” he said

“Alright, alright, we're going,” they said

“Don’t forget me,” Spike said running to catch up

Once the girls and Spike left to head back to the camp, Brian decided to look around the cave. The first thing he noticed was a stone pillar that had slots for seven crystals, all of which were missing. On the ground was a black crystal. He picked it up and estimated it to be nearly four inches in length and stuck it in his shirt pocket.
He left the cave, but decided to stay nearby as he saw what appeared to be a dome of branches around the camp, sealing it off. Spotting a small opening, Brian dropped his bag and crawled inside.

It was a small cave that as he entered, felt a hard object embedded in the ground.
Giving it a tug, Brian found the object to be a blue stone. It was about four inches in diameter, fitting in the palm of his hand and almost six inches in height. The shape was octagonal and weighed at least a pound or two. Figuring no one would miss it, Brian opened up his bag and carefully wrapped it up in his swimming trunks.
Crawling further inside he nearly ran head first into another stone, the second being much bigger.

“Damn. Glad I stopped before smacking into this.”

The dimensions were estimated to be eight inch in length and height along with a six inch width. Moving the stone was a challenge as the black stone weighed nearly five pounds. He carefully placed that into his sea bag and closed it up.
He crawled out of the cave and decided to lay low and play it safe. Brian headed to the clearing and dropped while keeping an eye on the wooden dome. Small spots were cut into the dome but immediately sealed.

“Good thing I didn’t help, huh,” Ignis mused as Brian briefly closed his eyes for a short catnap

“I did say I’d cause greater problems. Either forest fire or asphyxiation. Both are shitty options.”

Nearly half an hour later Brian noticed the dome was down and figured Gloriosa had been defeated. He grabbed his bag and started to walk back to camp still wearing the ghillie suit.

“Ah, it's Gaea Everfree’s minion,” Snips and Snails yelled seeing Brian

“I come in peace,” Brian said; questioning his own wording

“What the hay are you wearing,” Applejack asked

“This? It’s a military ghillie suit. Simply put; snipers wear these so they can’t be seen. This was my old man’s,” he answered removing the suit

“Where were you? We could have used your help,” Dash demanded

“Ignis didn’t want to play,” he said flatly

“Who's Ignis,” Timber asked

Brian quickly transformed into Ignis and back so they could see who he was talking about.

“You’re a dragon,” Timber and Gloriosa said together

“So where were you,” Timber asked

“I took a walk in the forest. Prior to that, Twilight and I had a conversation which caused her to leave. I told Sunset to follow and trailed after them in case something happened. As I approached the quarry, Gloriosa was floating towards camp and I figured the girls didn’t escape the cave, so I heaved the boulder out of the way,” Brian explained

“That’s not a complete answer as to why you weren’t here and how did you heave those boulders? They weight at least hundreds of pounds if not more,” Timber demanded

“The entire truth,” Brian asked “perhaps this'll help,” he said grabbing a broken log from the pier

He flicked his hand allowing it to ignite, “This is Hellfire and the reason I refused to help. This burns hotter than the sun and is just as dangerous,” he said torching the log leaving only a small pile of ash behind

“Had I helped two possibilities could have happened. One; I unintentionally set the forest on fire, or two; I cause everyone here to asphyxiate. I saw you attempting to cut the wooden dome, only for it to repair itself. I wouldn’t have cut it, I’d have incinerated it,” he continued

“What’s asphyxiation,” Fluttershy asked

“Lack of oxygen to the body. Deadly if the body goes a long period with out it,” he answered

“You left to protect us,” Celestia finished

“Precisely,” Brian said changing the conversation “Gloriosa, Timber, can I talk to the two of you privately?”

“Of course,” Gloriosa said

She led them to the dining room so they could talk, although Celestia and Luna joined them along with the main-seven.

“What did you way to talk about,” Gloriosa asked

“I have a couple stones that I wanted to keep, with your permission,” he said

He pulled out his swimming trunks, causing some awkward looks from the girls as he withdrew the blue stone followed by the much bigger black stone.

“What? I needed something to wrap it in,” Brian said

“Sapphire and Onyx. Where did you find these,” Timber asked

“A small side cave near the main chamber.”

“Go ahead. Those are now yours,” Gloriosa said

“Thank you very much.”

“Check out the new stones we have,”
Sunset said as the seven pulled them out

“Oh, you mean like this,” Brian said withdrawing his black one

“Why’s yours longer than ours,” Twilight asked

“Unofficial leader of the group,” he offered, shrugging his shoulders

“No matter what, you really have been our leader, darling,” Rarity said

“Thanks,” he said putting the stones back in his sea bag

“Sorry this week hasn’t gone well,” Timber apologized

“It’s fine. We still have time for the fashion show tonight,” Rarity said

“We’re going to need money for repairs to the camp,” Principal Celestia said

“We’ve got this,” Twilight and company said together

“Do you have some tools I can use, specifically a punch,” Brian asked

“We do. What do you need them for,” Timber asked

“Making necklaces out of the stones the eight of us, for one. Two, I was going to carve designs into my sapphire,” Brian said

“Necklaces? Here’s the rope for you to use,” Gloriosa said withdrawing a length of rope

The girls measured themselves for their necklaces as Brian punched a small enough hole through each stone. He measured his to sit around his collarbone and once he tied the necklace, threw it back into his pocket.

“Darling, I don’t know if you’ll make the fashion show but I made something I thought you’d like. I had to guess your measurements but it should fit,” Rarity said handing him a bundled up object

“A camo trench coat!? Thank you so much,” he said putting it on before adding, “Perfect fit.”

The jacket consisted of two layers, a dark brown interior while the outside was designed to look like jungle camo with two shades of green, black, and brown patches scattered covering the jacket.

“It’s a bit different making something like that due to its unnatural pattern, but I’m glad you like it. I even made something for Octavia,” Rarity explained

Brian grabbed a piece of paper and traced the sides of the sapphire so he could set up the designs. He decided Sunset’s would be carved on top while the rest of the six would be on the sides. The remaining two would go to Octavia and Vinyl for everything they’ve done to help him out.

Once that was done, the hard part of carving the designs in was next. He decided on starting with Octavia’s musical G clef and placed the paper on the stone. Using the tools, Brian carved the designs into the stone, like carving a pumpkin. As long as the design was traced onto the side, he could use a dremel tool to cut the rest out at home.

“Come on, the party’s going to start soon,” Octavia said entering the dining room

She was wearing a dress that looked reminiscent of urban camouflage with black, grey and blue covering it.

“What do you think? Like it? Rarity made it to compliment your jacket,” she asked

“All right. I’ll finish this at home anyways,” he said cleaning the tools and putting everything back before locking his bag “Yeah, I do like it. You look really good in it.”

In the time he was working on the stone carving, the girls managed to set the cave up to hold a concert. Brian showed up to the cave wearing the trench coat while Octavia participated in the fashion show. Sunset and the others performed as the Rainbooms to the delight of the crowd. The concert was a success and they managed to raise some money for repairs.

“Care to dance,” Octavia asked

“Sure,” Brian said

The two of them had fun dancing as Brian was unintentionally combining various dances together but no one seemed to either notice or care.

After the party was over, Brian knelt down and picked up a small yellow stone to bring home for Spike. Everyone helped clean up and they headed to bed to leave in the morning after breakfast.

Once the bus returned to the school, Brian and the others, walked to his house where he promised to explain some things to them.

“Brian, I’ve forgotten to ask, but when's your birthday,” Pinkie asked as they were sitting in the living room

“Allow me to retrieve something before I answer that,” he said

Setting the bag down in his room, he grabbed the box hidden in the closet before returning. Moments later he returned and opened the box and withdrew the photo first.

“Before I begin, I’d like you to see this. This is the last image of my parents,” he said passing it around

“It looks so peaceful and happy,” Twilight commented

“Looks can be deceiving. I’m sure you’ve seen the necklace I wear, right? This is what was in the box,” he continued, removing the necklace as they nodded

“There is one more thing that was there. This pendant with a photo of my parents and I along with two vials.”

“Is that blood,” a shocked Twilight asked

“Yeah. This is the last remnants of my parents. Now, to answer your question, Pinkie. I don’t have a birthday.”

“Of course you do. Everyone has one and it’s the day you were born,” she said cheerfully

“Not anymore. That photo was taken on October 13th. Friday, to be exact and my birthday. After I took that photo, my dad grabbed a gun and shot my mom before turning it on himself. I collected the blood and hid it before I called my best friend and the cops to report the murder-suicide,” he said causing gasps from the girls

“That doesn’t make sense,” Twilight said in disbelief

“Allow me to continue. I know you’ve seen the scars on my body,” Brian started

“At camp. I noticed they cover your arms and chest. What are they and the design on the inside of your forearms,” Twilight asked "Along with two black bands on your biceps."

“The scars are from being on the wrong end of a lightning bolt. The other is a different story. As for the bands; Ignis granted me the use of his power."

“What’s the right end of a lightning bolt,” Twilight asked curiously

“Not being struck by lightning. A month after my parents deaths I was at my best friend Deltorix’s house playing a game. We had gotten stuck and I jumped on the computer when lightning struck. I ended up in the hospital for two days afterwards. After I was discharged he wanted to celebrate his birthday alone and left me to watch a My Little Pony marathon where I was sent through a portal to Equestria by a being known as Discord,” he said

“That’s unbelievable,” Twilight argued

“Here's photographic proof. The first is Deltorix and I, followed by the images in Equestria,” he said passing her his phone

“These are amazing. You said you were from Equestria during the ‘Midnight Sparkle’ incident and I didn’t believe it, until now,” Twilight said handing the phone back

“If you don’t mind, I’ve got a secret of my own. Twilight and I are related,” Sunset said

“You and I are family,” Twilight asked

“Not exactly. Your counterpart, Princess Twilight and I are cousins. When I trained under Princess Celestia I found a book that mentioned us,” Sunset explained

“That’s why your cutie marks are so similar,” he asked

“Exactly. She and I are descended from Luna and Celestia, respectively. Just don’t tell her,” Sunset said

“No guarantees. If she asks I’m going to tell her that you mentioned it but nothing more.”

“What exactly does yours mean? Mine represents how good I am with art, but I never figured out yours,” he asked Sunset

“I guess I’m a light in the darkness for others,” she said

“I also have a secret. I’m still dealing with Midnight Sparkle. True, you helped me control her but I fear she could return,” Twilight said nervously

“I’ll help. We’re going through the portal tomorrow to get help,” he said writing in the book

Luna, tomorrow do you mind helping with a problem we have

Who’s ‘we’ and what is the problem?

Myself and the human Twilight Sparkle. As to what: Nightmare forms

Of course. I’ll help the two of you out

“Well, that's taken care of. You can stay here if you’d like, Twilight,” he offered

“Thank you,” Twilight said hugging him

“It’s getting late. We should head home,” Sunset added

Everyone but Twilight left and they were deciding on dinner. While they were deciding, Brian returned the necklace to the box and wore the black crystal he found as he put the box back in the closet.

“You don’t happen to have any dog food, do you,” Spike asked

“Unfortunately no. But I can make something. Some rice, and crackers,” Brian suggested

“That’s fine. I’ll take it,” Spike decided "I can't really get picky when I eat my own poop."

“And what about us,” Twilight asked

“What would you like?”

“Spaghetti,” she decided

“Long or short noodles?”

“Your choice,” she offered

The two of them started making dinner and made some rice so Spike could eat. As they were getting ready for bed, Twilight stopped by Brian's room.

“These are the pony forms of us in Equestria,” she asked

“Yeah. This is your alicorn counterpart, Princess Twilight,” he said picking up her plush

“I see most everyone. Doesn’t Octavia have one?”

“Like the others, no. This is the only plush for her,” he said picking up the smallest

“Do you mind if I slept with my pony self,” she asked sheepishly

“Go ahead. Your counterpart did the same when she was here.”

● Twilight and Midnight Sparkle ●

In the morning they decided in making pancakes before they headed to school to go through the portal.

“I’ll go first,” he said walking through the portal before she joined him

As they stepped through the portal, their appearances altered with Brian taking his regular alicorn form with Spike and Twilight taking the dragon and unicorn form of their counterparts.

“Wow! So this is Equestria,” Twilight exclaimed “I can understand the black in your fur, but where’s the blue?”

“Blue is my favorite color.”

“Oh,” she said surprised

“And I’m a dragon,” Spike said cheerfully

“Brian, you’re here,” Princess Twilight said excitedly

“On business, so to speak. Where’s Luna,” he said

“Her room. I’ll lead you there.”

“Luna? They’re here,” Princess Twilight called knocking on the door

“Enter,” Luna replied

Brian and the human Twilight entered the room to see Luna waiting for them.

“What can I help with,” Luna asked

“It’s about an incident that transpired in the other world. Somehow I opened multiple portals here and transformed into Midnight Sparkle,” Twilight explained

“A human with a Nightmare form? That is uncommon,” Luna mused

“Perhaps we can enter the dreamscape to help,” he suggested

"That might work," Luna decided

Luna put Twilight to sleep so she and Brian could enter the dreamscape. Once they entered, Brian recognized the area as Canterlot High School and their appearance was altered to match. Brian and Twilight appeared in their human forms; Ignis appeared in his usual dragon form while Luna stayed the same.

“You won’t defeat me! I’ll always be a part of you,” Midnight Sparkle exclaimed upon seeing them

“That may be, but you’re like just like me,” Ignis retorted

“I’m nothing like you,” Midnight replied

“You are. We’re bonded to them regardless of how we were created,” Ignis replied

“What do you want with me,” Twilight demanded

“I want to protect you. I don’t care how,” Midnight said quietly

“Then be there for me and allow me to be part of you,” Twilight said

“Fine. We are one regardless,” Midnight said, defeated

“Thank you.”

“Well, that seemed to be easy,” Brian said sarcastically

● Brian Dragnov ●

After they helped Twilight with dealing with her Nightmare form, the group was transported into Brian’s dreamscape.
The location was designed to look like Brian’s house with multiple people inside.

“Brian, who are all of them,” Twilight asked

“Different forms of me,” he said simply

Approaching the griffin Brian said, “you were not supposed to be created. You were a mask designed to keep me away from anyone else. Thankfully Discord removed you or I wouldn't have anything I have now.”

“Farewell,” the griffin said bowing as it faded away

Brian continued to the pegasus and alicorn and addressed them, “you two are my past and current self and I am grateful to have the two of you.”

“Thank you,” the pegasus said with a bow as it faded into the alicorn

“Ignis, only one of you was supposed to be here. The ooze was a manifestation of the hate I had when I released you to destroy Lucy. I originally created you as a second personality after my parents deaths and had no idea what would have happened if you took over. Thankfully I had Luna’s help with controlling you. I just hope you don’t make a return,” Brian said as the ooze Ignis faded away without a word

Turning towards his parents his demeanor changed from happy to angry, “have I got something to say to you. First off, why the fuck did you need to kill yourselves?”

The image of his father spoke, “We felt you were ready to move on. We taught you everything that you needed including sewing, cooking and military training.”

“Ready to move on? That’s a bullshit excuse if I’ve ever heard of. You could have helped me setting up an apartment or something, not just kill yourselves.”

“We decided it was best if we did this,” his mom said

“Best? You kill yourselves on what was my birthday? After that I was questioned by the cops about killing you! I don’t care about a birthday anymore when you two assholes ruined it for me! Fuck you!”

With that his parents faded away and the entire area suddenly grew dark.

● Nightmare Realm ●

“Where are we? Are we still in the dreamscape,” Twilight asked

“Yes and no. This is the Nightmare realm. I don’t know how you were sent here,” Ignis replied

“Lulu, long time no see,” a voice called

“Nightmare Moon. The last person I want to see,” Luna said with disgust

“What’s the matter, miss me,” Nightmare Moon asked sarcastically

“You wanted to take over Equestria! You realize that by plunging the world into darkness, many things would have died,” Luna stated

“I realize that now. What are you doing here,” Nightmare Moon asked

“We don’t know. Somehow went were transported here,” Brian said

“Well, the only way I could see is due to you all having Nightmare forms. To whom does the dragon belong to,” Nightmare Moon asked

“Ignis is mine. Long story as to how he was born,” Brian answered

“We know his origin. Interesting how you have a dragon Nightmare form,” she said

Looking around the area, two shadows stood out to Brian. One had Rarity’s shape with just her cutie mark visible while the other looked like Celestia.

“Who are you,” he asked the Nightmare Celestia

“I am Daybreaker. Celestia will release me,” Daybreaker said proudly

“My sister doesn’t know about this,” Luna said thankfully

“These are not fully complete. Only if they are complete will they change form. Nightmare Moon is a prime example of this. I’d include myself, had I been an actual resident of this realm,” Ignis explained

“As I said before. All humans have light and darkness inside them and ponies are no different. If they give in to the darkness can a Nightmare truly be born,” Brian said

“Looks like it’s time to go,” Ignis said as the group started to glow with light

Brian and Twilight woke up from their trip and were a little groggy due to it.

“Thanks for the help. Both of you. I’d never be able to control Midnight Sparkle without you,” Twilight said hugging them

“You’re welcome. I’m sorry about your family and what they put you through,” Luna said putting a hoof on Brian's shoulder

“I’m sorry you had to hear such foul language in regards to that. I just can’t fathom why they needed to resort to such extreme measures,” he said sadly

“Perhaps it’s best not to know. Remember the happy memories you have of them,” Luna said reassuringly

“Agreed. The dead aren’t truly gone until we don’t speak of them anymore,” he finished

“Do you mind if we had lunch? That made me hungry,” Twilight asked as her stomach growled

“Of course. You are also welcome to stay until tomorrow when you leave to head home. By the way Brian, your family's here. I told them you were coming,” Luna said

The three of them left to head to the dining room so they could eat before he introduced Twilight to his family.

“Twilight, this is my wife Octavia and my daughters Harmony and Melody,” he said

“I know Princess Twilight,” Octavia pointed out

“Twilight’s not me,” Princess Twilight commented; entering the room causing Octavia to look between the two Twilights

“Uh, where are there two Twilights,” a confused Octavia asked

“Perhaps I should explain. This is the Twilight Sparkle from the other side of the portal,” Brian said

“Oh, okay. I hope I can meet my counterpart someday,” Octavia said

“Dad,” Harmony and Melody said, walking towards Brian

“Another thing I missed. Watching my girls taking their first steps,” Brian said hugging his girls

“Hey, school should be over soon so you can be with your family,” Princess Twilight said cheerfully

“These are your girls? They’re so cute,” Twilight said

“Melody is on the left with blue fur and Harmony is the black one and both are earth ponies,” Octavia explained

“I’m surprised they took after me. The silver could be argued to be from you,” Brian said nuzzling his wife

“I don’t mind. Like you, they're one of a kind,” she said

“Sorry about the PDA, Twilight. It’s been a while since I’ve seen my wife,” he said

“It’s alright. I’ve seen my brother and Cadence together,” Twilight said

“Twilight, are you alright,” Shining Armor said “Why are there two of you?”

“I needed some help with something. Brian knew someone who could help,” Twilight answered

The rest of the mane-six entered the room and were in shock to two Twilights in the room.

“Before you say anything, I’ll explain. Twilight is here because she had a problem with a Nightmare form she has,” Brian explained

“You mean that thing that opened up portals was you,” Rainbow Dash asked

“Yes, that was Midnight Sparkle, my so-called Nightmare Form. Hopefully we are going to be friends,” Twilight said

“Brian, when's your birthday,” Pinkie asked “oops. Yourbirthdaywasthedayyourparentsdiedandyoudon’tconsideryouhaveoneduetothememoriesofthatday. (Your birthday was the day your parents died and you don’t consider you have one due to the memories of that day).”

“Exactly.”

“And you reverted back to that demonic Ignis with red eyes,” Octavia said slapping her husband

“I deserved that.”

“Alright let’s not overwhelm our guest. Twilight and Brian will be leaving tomorrow so give them some breathing room,” Celestia said as she walked in

The rest of the day passed without incident as Princess Twilight showed her human counterpart around the castle while Brian spent the time with his wife.

“By the way Brian, I’ve been working on the portal a little bit. I’ll let you know when it’s finished. Hopefully it’s done before you graduate high school,” Twilight said

“Well, let me know. Thanks for the help Luna,” Brian said walking through the portal

“Thank you for the help and hospitality,” Twilight said as she and Spike passed through the portal

“Thanks for the help, Brian. I’m going to head home,” Twilight said, once on the other side

“Alright. Glad I could help with Midnight,” he said

Brian was transported to the dreamscape even though he was already there just the other day.

“Thanks for everything Ig.”

“That was a surprise heading to the Nightmare realm,” Ignis said

“How’d we get there? I never heard of it until yesterday.”

“That’s the problem. Too many ideas to how but only one reason and I can’t answer it,” Ignis mused

"Damn."