So, you want to hear my story, eh? The honest-to-goodness truth of how I become what I am today? You want to hear of the events, that changed not only my, but many other lives? I warn you now, it is not a pretty story. It is filled with bloodshed, with anger and with pain. It is a story of violence and death, of overcoming obstacles that nopony should ever encounter. But it also is a story of good, a story of hope. For even in the shadows of an evil older than the Royal Princesses themselves, even in a world that does not know harmony there is still hope. It guides you when you’re lost, comforts you when you’re scared, it is a light in the dark of night and a cool shadow in a sun-burned desert.
You’re still here? Then you must really want to know, do you? Very well, let me begin.
My name is Spike, and this is the story of how I and my friends were plunged to an adventure on a world not our own.
-#-#-#-#-
Author's note:
Story written in Spike’s POV. Humanized (eventually) cast. A crossover with Pathfinder’s Rise of the Runelords adventure path. While based for the most part on the actual path, it will contain original personal storylines and it will explore the concept of a pony (herbivore) becoming a human(oid) (omnivore) and the possibilities/downsides it contains.
WARNING, story contains:
-Humanized ponies
-Mild to heavy violence and gore
-Philosophical questions (who we really are; dose eating other creatures counts as evil; is there such a thing as knowledge forbidden; is Pinkie Pie really insane)
-Pinkie Pie with a multiple personality disorder (might go slight cupcakes, but nothing serious, so don’t worry about RD… yet)
-Semi-competent to fully competent Spike
-Grammar errors (English is not my native tongue)
-A seriously messed up author
Don’t mind me, it’s just the author with a public announcement. I decided to use the comments to clear up one thing with the fic: units of measurements. As most of you may have seen, I use hoofs instead of feet. While that is true, the units themselves are not an equivalent to feet (the show is called My Little Pony for a reason). For a quick recalculation: one hoof equals about half a foot, and equestrian inches are about half an inch in normal terms. Basically, all equestrian units of length are halved in comparison to the real ones. As for weight –those are basically equal to one another. Just so you guys know. Oh, and thanks to everyone that actually reads this. Feel free to leave a comment.
I like and I approve. You write pretty well.
1751693 Wow, you work fast. Thanks for the good word.
Nice.
Burnt Offerings - Testament
*tea
Excellent otherwise, better than many native speakers I know.
1752255 How did I not notice that?
Either way, it’s fixed now, and thanks for pointing that out, and for the compliment.
What a coincidence. I also believe Spike is about 14 as well.
Seems interesting and promising. Faved.
Spyro , Star Trek, & Mass effect references.
1753097 Actually, I was going more for a Stargate reference then a Mass Effect one.
And as for Spyro… it’s a clear coincidence. To be absolutely honest, I never played Spyro in my life, so I can’t even pinpoint where the reference takes place.
I was wondering on writing a Pony Roleplay session messing up with a ponyfriendly version of Burnt Offering and then I found this story and it was well written and I was all like
and then 
forever and ever.
You know, this story does deserve more love, so have a lot of
So so far:
Pinkie Pie is a Gnome
Spike is an Halfling
Rainbow Dash and Applejack are Human
Fluttershy, Rarity are Elf
And ... there is no sign of TWILIGTH!!!! (yet)
DU DU DUUUUN!!!
2035763 Why thank you. I was beginning to get a bit frustrated by the lack of comments (though I suspect it has something to do with my tendency to overanalyze things while writing, not to mention the fact I decided to tackle something not exactly that popular), so your input is greatly appreciated.
and 
are only Half-Elves, but aside that you are correct. Beside, who would be a better gnome than a someone already random as hell 
Oh, and don’t worry, Twi will appear sooner or later, give her time.
One thing though –technically
Well I admit that I'm more a fan of the Adveture Paths than the System Itself (I tend to use that RPG which name sound just like Spike barfing a letter from Celestia more) but I pretty sure that Half-Elf in Pathfinder are a bit more better than it the classical 3/3.5 so good for Rarity and Fluttershy.
Yet so far the story is really good, the whole thing with the winged Creature at the start was quite catching, In fact I almost forgot the whole thing was going to end in Golarion sooner or rather and the whole reaction of the character are well written and right, especially Dashie crisisis in missing her wing and her stuborness in blaming Trixie no matter what. Rarity freaking out on the idea of have to wear dress to not show naughty bits was pure gold, but I do suspect that she will enjoy the tought of classy underwear in the end.
And Pinkie as a Gnome ... oh that was 20% more cool than cool.
Now I do wan't to see the first contact with the native.
Overall you deserv a lot more like, I do supect is just the unfamiliarity with Pathfinder that keep people away.
2035881 You’re probably right, I for one was skeptic to Pathfinder at first too, especially having a rather poor first impression with 4th Ed D&D and spending too much money on 3.5. In the end however, it’s the Adventure Paths that got me hooked, especially the fact that with only a bit of tweaking here and there they make for great stories. And yes, Half-Elves in Pathfinder are more shiny than the regular ones, especially if you use some additional and/or homebrew rules.
To be honest, the reactions I put in here are more like what I would want to see more in other stories with humans involved, especially if the ponies are being humanized. I mean yeah, some stories are good and all, but one needs to keep some things in mind, especially with Dash and the lack of wings (which by the way you have not seen the last of it I assure you) or clothes. Many forget the simple fact, that as animals with coats/fur ponies don’t need to think about being decent, but the thought of being completely naked (a.k.a. nothing to hid ‘dem important bits’) would still be repulsive and wrong to them.
…wait a moment, “classy underwear” in a XV-XVII century-like world?
x4d.xanga.com/2dce334ac1434276567448/m220358985.jpg
As for the meeting with the native (considering he/she just shot a boar with an arrow which implies he/she’s hunting) –well, it’s gonna be interesting to say the least
2035975
Yep the whole transformation in another specie issue, expecially one so weird as us Human isn't never explored in full, this does make the story that does it more interesting.
Well this asaid you only make me more eager on seeing the next chapter, so plese write more, if you wan't ... if that would be alright ...
“Seriously, if Twilight ever turns into an alicorn I’m quitting gems.”
The last famous word Spike.
Well so far the girl were lucky, their first meeting with "hunting" was with someone that show a bit of decency with the thing ... it could have been a lot worse a whole lot of worse. I want to know more of the guy nonetheless.
So Twilight is the only Pureblood Elf? This is both great and scary ... especially if something like Lesson of Zero happen while she is the body of a species that can spontaneously change into a Drow.
I'm looking up for Sandpoint, the fun will be doubled.
2106782
Yeah, I wanted to make a jab at the whole “Twilicorn” crisis. Seriously, the way the fandom is reacting to that is frightening. And to be honest, I was kinda expecting this to happen sooner or later. I even began working on a functional D&D/Pathfinder-styled pantheon with the information I had directly after Season 2 ended and how there was a possibility of say the bearers of the elements to transcend into deities of their own. Let’s just say that the Elements of Harmony have serious side-effects if used for long enough *cough*Surprise-the-former-element-of-laughter*cough*
Einael was a bit tricky to get right. Originally he was supposed to be a one-shot character, but somewhere in the middle of the chap I came up with a way to incorporate him later on, so you’ll be happy to know it wasn’t the last of him. However he may not be the same the next time they run into each other.
I’m not sure if elves can spontaneously turn into drow. I always got the impression that it’s a magical and evolutionary trait. And pulling of a “Lesson Zero” while stuck in Golarion would be kind of tricky. Besides, I’ve got plans for Twilight… big plans… (cackles maniacally)
This make two of us, in all honestly I was aware of Twilicorn has a possibility since I started being watching MLP and it didn't scare me in the least. But I've to admit Isha blessed me with a good skill in predicting plot twist.
The whole backstory of Second Darkness hinted that indeed an Elf can suddendly change into Drow in a matter of istant, is more or less like the bleaching for Gnome a supernatural curse on the whole species. Paizo's guys does like their GrimDark to be GrimDark.
Well, I glad to hear you have plan for my favorite pony, need to know I'll be here waiting to read all ... with a smile on my face
.
2106929
So that’s why I didn’t know that. To be honest, I got most of the Adventure Paths but I just didn’t have the time to go through them all in detail. That and I’m still mentally stuck with the Forgotten Realms type of drow. Still, that’s a neat thing to know, might come in handy at some point. And as for Twilight… she’s not the only one with my demented ideas looming over her head. Let’s just say that the Saviors will have a lot of Sins on their conscience when I’m done with them (have to earn the ‘dark’ category somehow)
2106959
I'm more versed in Rise of Runelords myself, but I did read some bit and piece of Second Darkness manly because Shalelu appear there, so has I drabble in Jade Regent more or less because it has some old Sandpointians in there.
Well I'm not in the whole "Saintly Ponies" bandwagon, even on Equestria they did shown a whole lot of classical sins, I aspect them to struggle once they have to come in terms with an universe as black as Golarion.
Another nice Chapter, Equestria difference with Golarion became more and more apparent especially with the name, yet I do really wish someone other me would comment this story it deserve more readers.
2145722
ikr, I mean as much as I appreciate your comments (the main reason I actually finished the last chapter that fast; I’m still shocked it took me less than two weeks) it would be nice to see someone new from time to time. Not that I’m whining or anything, I’m not one to beg for comments.
Hmm… now that I think about it, I’m beginning to suspect that it’s the length of the chapters’ that scares off people. Shortest one is over 6k words long, and from what I can see, stories with shorter chaps get more views. Or it has to do with the fact I’m going with the more “book format” type of storytelling, focusing on descriptions and taking my time with moving the plot along instead of jumping into action right off the bat. But as long as I’m not getting more dislikes or flames in the comments I’m not going to complain.
2145893
There is nothing wrong with the way you write (nor with the lenght of chapter), in fact I can rate you very high in the quality of writing among the stories I'm following, the pace is just right and this kind of story need the description (well I suspect the Goblins are just a bit near the corner) after all the Mare Six (and Spike) are alien being to Golarion, so everything get to their senses more vivid and your writing stile just let us reader percive that.
Some stories are just like fast food made for be devored fast, yours is a nice well coocked steack with a nice dressing. Every bit need to be eat slowly and savoured.
2145931
Again, thanks for the good word. At least I know I’m not doing a terrible job. And your analogy was quite amusing, and quite a bit mouth-watering. Damn you made me hungry
As for the goblins and whatnot… you can be sure they will be in this act, but still not just around the bend. We have a whole festival ahead of us, and as the protagonists are alien to the world I need to make the best of it to make them feel more compelled to help out further along the way. That and I need to sow the seeds for my sub-plots and inter-party relations, especially with introducing my absolute favorite non-essential character. Tree guesses who that might be.
Ooooh so many NPC and so few guesses
... I'll say speaking like Leonard Nimoy "Surprise Me" 
.
Oh … you are such an evil evil brony.
Not only you put out two chapter in a row not only you toys with a world full of grimdark like Golarion.
And yet how deliciously evil everything can get? Not the Bleaching, not Elfs spontaneously becoming Drow, not follower of the God of Loss and Pain nor the Worldwound …
No you put Trixie there, and she is just awesome.
Lately I’ve found lot of Fanfiction lacking, lot awaited plot poorly developed, lot of bad aftertaste in my mouth, lot of promise not fulfilled, lot of gift ungiven.
But not this story, this story always manage to pull thing of wonderfully, this last two chapter even better than before.
Your characterization was as always spot on, Spike growing aware of becoming the Voice of Reason was pure gold and so your Pinkie antics and 4th wall breaking.
And Twilight going “Lesson of Zero” … there is no words in Human and Equestrian that can say on how much I giggled and loved that.
Less just see when they discover that they are not on Earth Prime but in a Fantasy World were not only Arcane Magic was available but Divine too and Psionic is still in playtest.
You are on for a whole level of craziness Twilight.
But don’t worry soon you will learn how bunch of people without any talent nor common sense got their money all around many tabletop games … by bucking thing and tacking their stuff.
2429955
Am I evil? Am I really evil? Hmm…
In all seriousness though, I just couldn’t help myself and not put The Great and Powerful Trixie in there. All the opportunities, all the shenanigans she can get herself and the others into… The possibilities are virtually limitless, not to mention that Golarion is not prepared for someone of her magnitude
Eartfall has nothing on her let’s say it like that
And that’s without saying how fun she’s to write, at least for me. Her figure of speech is just something that comes so naturally to me. Though I would like to know what exactly did you find so awesome in her, not that Trixie isn’t awesome on her own (jeez I’m starting to sound like Seth
)
Now on another note –I’m really happy that you liked my portrayal of Pinkie. She got me worried during the writing process; I felt I wasn’t doing a proper job with her, not to mention that it’s so freaking hard for me to write her right. Seriously, I can write AJ with an accent no problem, Rarity’s mannerism I can handle with ease, but Pinkie Pie? She terrifies me. Good thing I already planned on some things with her (see long description of the story for details
)
On an unrelated note: do you know if Golarion is on a Gutenberg-level when it comes to printing? It may have an impact on the story and I rather know it now than later.
Well first and foremost the HAMMINESS, sure Rarity (or better Tabitha St Germain) does deliver a nice ham and cheese for a supposed vegetarian pony, but only Trixie can fill it whit so much pride despite everything.
She is pridefull even when she is the Apologetical Trixie!
Then she is the Element of Contrast, all the Mane 6 and Spike are happy friend but not her, she is the disharmony in the tune.
I've checked Inners Sea World Guide, it say on page 257 tha Golarion has press but pre-Gutenber save for Andoran, Cheliax, Galt, and Nex, where Gutember movable character press is disponible.
2430621
Especially if a good portion of them are handmade copies of older books; those older type printing presses weren’t exactly that reliable or useful, and so most of the books had to be written down by monks (generally clerics in this setting) in monasteries.
Ok, than it means I’ll have to up the costs of any and all books a bit in Varisia, save for Korvosa. Can’t have too cheap books when making one is an expensive, time-consuming endeavor now, can I?
And as for Trixie… well, I do agree with a lot of your points, but I was referring more to her involvement in the story, not the show. I’m just not entirely sure if I managed to capture her the way I should. Sure she’s fun to play around with, but I don’t want to fall into a trap of a poorly adapted character.
Belive me, when you end doing a bad characterization, I'll be upon you like an hawk.
Brains...
3810710
P.S. cool avatar you got there
Finally a another chapters
. And truly great chapter witch cliffhanger at the end. I only hope next chapter come before summer holiday
.
Really lovin this. Spike's snarky comments in the narration really add a lot of flair to everything.
I hope we get to see spike in action more
SPIKE IS SO BADASS
I can't wait for spike to snap again and release his dragon form. I would love to see every ones reactions.
Spike has proven once again that he is no pushover.
Damn that gnarly cliff-hanger. Shit seems really screwed up. I quite enjoy how Spike's "magic" isn't just saving the day, and how everyone is given somewhat equal importance
In the previous chapter, the preist paused and looked at spikes hair. What was up with that?
3811717 Thank you. And I am kinda a zombie virus. I am also the cure for cancer. Plus, cool story, bro.
Dayyyyyum.
Spike can use the force.
4419257 Spikes powers are dragon related. Sheild for the scales, fireball for... Fireballs, and claws for obvious reasons.
And is t
4417999 his a crossover?
4415025
4411889 4417999 I know right?
4415025 I wouldn't say he's gonna "release his dragon form" anytime soon, seeing he just started his way on the path to power, but maybe, someday... Then again, a human (halfling) with purple claws able to rip your throat out isn't something to scoff at either
4419257 Well it wouldn't be very interesting if Spike had a "win switch". I'm trying to keep them all on somewhat equal footing here, with according challenges placed before them, so that everyone has a chance to shine. And as to cliffies and how screwy the situation can get... considering Fluttershy just snapped and clobbered a greenskin with a rock, coupled with some of my more demented ideas concerning Pinkie, and a certain something I'm planning for later, its gonna be one hell of a ride
4423927 First off -thanks for the slew of comments Mr. Zombie-Virus-Cancer-Cure
. Makes me happy to know I'm doing something right.
Now, for the priest looking at Spike's hair bit -and how would you react to meeting a dude who's half your size, with green hair in spikes, especially if hair dyes don't yet come in those colors and the closest thing to hair gel right about now is butter? He was just more or less surprised by his hairdo.
Nice catch on interpreting Spike's powers, but there's more to that then meets the eye. I'm gonna get to that later on in the story.
And yes, this is a crossover. It's somewhat a ponies and D&D type of thing, except they're thrust directly into the game, which incidentally isn't a game at all but a "real" world.
Love this story. But you already gussed that.
On a completly unrelated note, you guys remember that Spike based Anime, right?
Yeah, that is oming out once we have... Say, 230 more people to sign the petition.
LINK
Still, love the story.
4424657
I guessed he was a Sorceror, as if he was dragon-blooded... didn't particularly think it might be deeper than that.
Early on I wondered if he was going to wind up being a rogue of some kind with a dragonmark, but then I don't know anything about the setting that Burnt Offerings is in, and... well I'd be surprised if pathfinder didn't have dragonmarks in some fashion in one of their supplemental products, but I'm not too familiar with the various settings for Pathfinder.
And Pinkie... I guess Spike might be able to see or be sensitive to stuff others aren't... or he could just be going off the deep end. One of those.
Yay update.
I feel like that Spike and maybe Applejack are the only ones being really cautious.