Chapter 1

A wish from the stars! A new face comes to Ponyville?

On a spring afternoon, everypony went about their usual business in Ponyville as always. There always seemed to be rare and unique happenings in town that have come and gone, while others simply chose to stay as wondrous features. One of said happenings was a former spirit of chaos and disharmony that was seen traveling in town with a timid pegasus.

Fluttershy and Discord have been the best of friends ever since the draconequus' grating reformation, and have lived with each other ever since. Knowing Discord's ability to warp reality at the snap of a talon, he was well enough on his own, but he chose to stay with Fluttershy out of the newly-developed goodness of his heart. The timid pegasus trotted towards the market square with saddlebags on her back to go grocery shopping.

Discord, for his part, hovered over Fluttershy with a look of boredom on his face "Honestly, Fluttershy, must you always have to purchase groceries when I can just simply give you more food myself? Don't get me wrong, I know you enjoy shopping, but it seems rather pointless to do so when I'm around."

Fluttershy looked up at Discord with a smile "Oh, Discord, I know you can do almost anything, but sometimes I just want to help provide as well! I can't just place everything on you."

Discord smirked "Oh? Clearly you're babying me while I hold the capability of doing just what you said!" He shrugged "But, who am I to judge? You're just doing your thing, I guess."

Fluttershy giggled "Thank you, Discord..." She reached a stall selling carrots and bowed to the vendor in greeting "Hello, Carrot Top. I'd like to purchase some of your finest carrots, please."

Carrot Top raised an eyebrow with a smile "For your pet bunny, right? Sure, I got you covered!" She said as she fished out two small bunches of carrots "That'll be 6 bits for both bundles!"

Fluttershy nodded and paid the correct amount after pulling it out of her saddlebag. After scooping the orange veggies into her other saddlebag, she and Discord left for another stand.

The draconequus huffed "What surprises me is that you're willing to go out of your way for that spoiled brat of a bunny. Are you not aware that he usually causes trouble for you now and then?" Fluttershy stopped and looked up at Discord, and he took the hint as he held up his arms in a placating matter "Okay, hypocritical on my end, but somepony like you shouldn't be abused like this."

Fluttershy smiled "I know when to stand my ground; I make sure that Angel Bunny behaves properly if he ever chooses to get out of line. Besides..." She looked down with a concerned frown "I only want to make sure that him and the other animals are happy."

Discord crossed his arms "And I'm sure they got the memo with your constant care. Heck, I'm pretty sure they're so happy, they'll tiptoe across the tulips!" They stopped at an asparagus stand as Fluttershy made a payment for a few stalks of asparagus"All I'm saying is, maybe you're wasting your precious care on your animals when they're already as happy as can be. Why not take this time to look after other ponies who need it?"

Fluttershy frowned as she scooped her purchased item into her saddlebag "Now, Discord, you know my special talent is communicating with other animals. All I'm doing is looking after them. Wouldn't you think that maybe the ponies in Ponyville are just as happy as my animals?"

Discord held up a claw as he hovered over Fluttershy, who trotted her way towards a tomato stand "An excellent point, but you're being shortsighted about my question. You're excellent at what you do, being kind to anything around you, be it an animal, a pony, or Yours truly. But what if there existed a pony who led such a horrid life that the only cure for their constant torment was your care alone?"

Fluttershy stopped in her tracks as her eyes were hidden beneath her flowing mane. Discord saw how she remained silent and winced "Okay, perhaps I've been a bit touchy on the issue, so I'll just-"

"Because I'm not like you." Discord ceased his words upon hearing Fluttershy, who looked up at him with saddened eyes "I don't have your powers to see my wishes through. You're always able to do whatever you want, whenever you want to, and however you desire." She looked down "But all I can do is only go so far with my own talents. I know there are ponies out there in Equestria who go through so much pain and suffering, but I don't know if I'll ever be able to help at least one of them."

Discord stared at Fluttershy and scratched the back of his head with an embarrassed expression on his face "Look, I've probably struck a nerve or two right now. All I was saying was that maybe you could leave some of the hard stuff up to me while you do your own thing, but all I've done was made you small, and I'm sorry for that."

Fluttershy paused before she smiled up at Discord "Oh, I know you didn't mean it...I'm just a little jealous of you is all. At least now you'll use your power for good intentions."

Discord looked away with an indifferent gaze in his eyes "Yes, well, you're the real heroine for that one. I don't know where Celestia gets off taking most of the credit for your success."

Fluttershy giggled "Well, she DID bring you to us so we could be able to. Wouldn't that count for something?"

Discord was silent before he mumbled "I suppose. I just don't feel like listening to her most of the time, even if she gave you and your friends the elements as a subtle threat to my behavior were I to take advantage of my freedom."

Fluttershy nodded "And I'm sure we won't have to. You're a good friend and you know it."

Discord chuckled "Maybe I am." He smiled down at Fluttershy "You know, Fluttershy, you're too kind for your own good sometimes..." The two perked up when they heard somepony clearing their throat.

They looked over at the stand vendor, who had an impatient look on her face "You gonna buy some tomatoes or not? You're holding up the line!"

Fluttershy cringed "Oh...We're so sorry. We lost track of time over our talk." She grinned awkwardly "Three tomatoes, please."

The vendor rolled her eyes and presented the desired items "That'll be 3 bits."

Fluttershy paid for the tomatoes and scooped them into her saddlebag. She looked up at Discord "I think it's time we go home now. We've got what we came for."

Discord held up a claw as he smirked "Leave that part to me!" He said as he snapped his talon, causing him and Fluttershy to wink out of existence in front of the vendor and their customers.

The two reappeared in front of Fluttershy's cottage near the edge of the Everfree Forest. Discord spread his arms "Here we are. Home sweet home!"

Fluttershy smiled "Thank you for teleporting us home, Discord." She pawed at the ground "You didn't have to."

Discord waved a dismissive paw "Oh please, I need to lift my own weight since I'm living with you after all. I don't wanna end up like those dime a dozen mooches you would see in the big cities."

Fluttershy frowned "But you're not mooching off of me. In fact, you're doing so well as a roommate." She looked away "Um...though your interactions with Angel could use work..."

Discord rolled his eyes as he hovered inside with Fluttershy "Give the little one a carrot full of gelatin and suddenly I'm bad at socializing with him..."

Fluttershy giggled at Discord's remark "Let's just go inside and have some lunch." She said as she shut the door behind her.
_____

The day had went along swimmingly as Discord was able to keep Fluttershy in good spirits. However, he was unaware that his chat with her in the market square had her mind dwelling on the thought of being unable to help ponies that actually need it rather than constantly looking after her animals. She didn't want to wrap her mind around it, but it was hard for her to ignore the pain of distant ponies after Discord brought it up. It bothered her so much that she couldn't sleep at night.

Fluttershy looked up at the night sky from her roof, sighing to herself 'I envy Discord sometimes...always able to solve anypony's problems at the snap of a talon...' While she had her sullen eyes up in the sky, she gasped in surprise when she saw a flickering light soaring "A shooting star!" She brought her hooves together and closed her eyes as she muttered to herself "I wish I could meet a pony in need and help them with their life..." When she looked back up at the star, she smiled hopefully, but it vanished when she noticed the star coming closer towards her. She squeaked and quickly hid behind the other side of her roof, unaware that the star was becoming a large ball of light that was headed into the middle of the Everfree Forest. The impact inside of the forest had caused several birds flew out of the darkened foliage in the trees.

After the impact had ended, Fluttershy peered her head over where she heard the crash and shivered 'Did something actually fall from the sky into the Everfree Forest? What could it be?' The thought had scared her, but her towering curiousity beckoned for her to venture into the Everfree Forest and see what had landed from beyond the stars. She thought about waking Discord and have him help investigate, then shook her head 'No...I can't depend on him. I need to be brave and do this myself.' She gulped 'I'll just have to try and steer clear of any danger in the forest...'

With her decision final, Fluttershy hovered into the air and glided towards the forest's entrance, where endless shadows took refuge within. She shivered at the very sight of it, but she steeled herself, knowing that she had to be brave. Fluttershy took the first step inside of the forest and made sure to be as quiet as possible while she moved on.

She looked around and heard several animal noises that ranged from the hoots of an owl to the growl of a timberwolf. Fluttershy began to sweat and dart her eyes as she continued on "Oh dear...Maybe coming here was a mistake..." She mewled to herself as she began having second thoughts.

Until she heard it.

Fluttershy's ears perked up when she heard a feeble, but incoherent voice sound out deeper in the forest 'Who was that? Is there somepony lost in here?' Her ears twitched when another voice was heard; it was also incoherent, but seemed harsh and raspy. The timid pegasus gasped to herself 'Oh dear...two ponies? This can't be good. I have to find them and get them out of here quickly!'

Fluttershy cautiously trotted while looking around, hoping to find any nearby silhouettes "Hello?" She said as she heard the two faint voices "I-Is anypony there?"

There was silence in the area until a sonic wave shook the forest as a piercing scream was heard; Fluttershy heard it herself with widened eyes. Any voice could shake the air, but this one shook the heart, her's to be precise. She flinched when another scream was heard, but summoned her courage to delve deeper into the forest 'Be brave...Just keep moving and be brave...' She thought to herself as she felt herself shiver when she pressed onward.

As she moved, something caught Fluttershy's eye up ahead. It appeared to be glimmers of light behind a brush; there were traces of red and blue seen from the small spaces. As she inched forward, she heard the voices at a greater volume than before 'That must be them! Oh, I hope I'm not too late...' She pushed the branches aside to step into the clearing ahead, but some of the leaves and sticks got in her mane and obstructed her vision "Oh dear." She said to herself as she brushed and shook herself off "There..." Fluttershy brought her head up and looked ahead "Are you-" She stopped herself and gasped at the scene in front of her.

Blood was everywhere, staining some of the trees and bushes. However, there were no bodies to be found, not even any bones. Fluttershy's eyes widened when she spotted what appeared to be floating wisps that were colored red and blue surrounding the shadow of a pony with a sword in its teeth. Her heart nearly jumped out of her chest when she spotted the maddening glimpse in the mystery pony's purple eyes the moment she gained its attention.

Fluttershy mentally concluded that venturing into the forest was a mistake as she backed away slowly, gradually picking up speed until she tripped over a branch and fell on her back. When she noticed the pony slowly trotting towards her, she shrieked and quickly backed away to regain her footing and galloped away after hopping through the brush she entered from.

Her heart was racing, and her mind was reeling as Fluttershy galloped through the dark forest with her newfound adrenaline. She didn't know who that was back there, but she knew that it was a sight so scary, Fluttershy could have sworn she was partaking in a nightmare. She didn't look back, nor did she want to; All that mattered now was to go back home and away from the mysterious pony.

Fluttershy managed to dodge and overcome every small obstacle that got in her way while she galloped feverishly without pause; She couldn't be here anymore and nothing could stop her, not even the animals that resided in the forest. When she spotted the entrance to the forest up ahead, she sped towards it as her reliable adrenaline began to drain away from her body. After crossing through the woods and galloping over the bridge leading towards her cottage, the timid pegasus finally reached her home and burst through the door, waking most of the animals in her home as she hyperventilated, sweat adorning her coat.

She jumped, but calmed herself when she noticed Discord appearing in front of her with concern on his face "Fluttershy? What are you doing up? What in Equestria happened to you!?" He said as he scooped the near-catatonic pegasus in his arms.

Fluttershy tried catching her breath and tried to speak "I w-wished for-...somepony to care for-" She inhaled in each of her pauses "A killer-...in the forest...I ran away..."

Discord blinked "Forest?" He thought it over before he realized what she was saying "You're saying that you went into the Everfree Forest by yourself? Are you mad, girl!? You could've been killed!"

While she caught her breath, Fluttershy had tears in her eyes as she tried to form coherent words "K-Killer...Killer pony...In the forest..."

Discord stared into his friends eyes "A killer pony in the Everfree Forest? What did they look like?" He asked with an intent gaze.

Fluttershy paused as she whimpered, then curled herself up in Discord's grasp "I-I don't know...They had p-purple eyes...and a sword...that's all I saw."

Discord arched an eyebrow "Purple eyes and a sword?" He wished to question his friend further, but he noticed how worn out she was from running all the way back from the forest; how she wanted to forget what had happened tonight. He sighed sympathetically "Look, Fluttershy, I don't know what you saw, but I'm certain it might have been your imagination. And just in case you're telling the truth, I'll go look outside to make sure the 'killer pony' won't set one little hoof out of the forest without getting through me..." He said with a reassuring smile.

Fluttershy whimpered, but smiled after hearing Discord's comforting words "Thank you, Discord. Maybe I do need you to help me after all..."

Discord nuzzled Fluttershy while she laid in his arms "It's what I'm here for. Now how about I tuck you into bed so you can actually sleep well?"

Fluttershy yawned "I would like that..." She said as sleep began to overtake her body. Discord quietly hovered up into Fluttershy's room and tucked her in bed, making sure she was sleeping soundly before teleporting outside to scout the area near the Everfree Forest, as per his word.

Discord snapped his talons to make a telescope appear and used it to get a better look at the entrance to the Everfree Forest 'Hmmm...Nothing. If it actually was a killer, it'd be hot on Fluttershy's tail and would've stepped out of this forest by now...' He peered along the edges, wondering if the killer would appear from around that area, then hummed "Nothing...Either the killer's biding their time or Fluttershy really has seen something mind-boggling while she was in the forest." He paused before he stroked his goatee "Why on earth would Fluttershy even go into the forest to begin with?" Discord asked himself, then thought back to what she said earlier "Wait a minute...She said she wished for somepony to care for...went into the forest..." He held a look of realization "It'd be redundant to call myself crazy, but could it be that the so-called killer pony Fluttershy mentioned could very well be the same pony she wished for?"

The draconequus stared at the Everfree forest and noticed no activity whatsoever. He contemplated on whether to venture into the forest himself and fish out the mysterious pony Fluttershy mentioned, or let them find their own way out while they're deep inside 'I'd probably end up scaring Fluttershy if I brought the little monster back with me, so I suppose whoever's in there is fine on their own.' He snapped his talon and teleported back into the cottage, where he chose to lay down on the couch while smiling to himself 'They may be a killer now, but who knows? Maybe Fluttershy could turn their life around like she did mine. All we gotta do is wait...'
_____

The next morning, Fluttershy woke up from her bed, yawning and stretching herself before deciding to go downstairs to fix herself a meal before tending to her animal friends. As she went down the stairs, Fluttershy noticed her indoor pets waking up and grooming themselves, smiling at their gestures and sighing contently before trotting into the kitchen.

She rubbed her eyes when she noticed what appeared to be Discord wearing a polka-dotted toque while preparing breakfast consisting of oatmeal and orange juice. The draconequus recognized her when he looked behind him, waving in greeting "Morning, Flutters. You hungry?"

Fluttershy stared until she smiled "Yes. Is this for me?"

Discord winked with a smirk "Can't have you start the day on an empty stomach, can I? Besides, I'm certain you'll either be working hard or hardly working today depending on your schedule!"

Fluttershy trotted over to her seat at the table and Discord snapped his talons to make a bowl of oatmeal and a glass of orange juice appear in front of her. She took a spoonful and blew on it before tasting it. While it was good at first, it was surprisingly sour and bitter afterwards, causing her to gulp it down before she choked. Fluttershy looked over at Discord "Um...Discord? May I ask what's inside the oatmeal?" She asked hesitantly.

Discord smiled and pointed a talon up "Of course. It's simply apple cinnamon." There was a pause, and Fluttershy went to speak "With just a dash of vinegar!" Discord added cheerfully.

Fluttershy forced a smile "Oh, I see..." 'That explains the sour taste...But I shouldn't be so rude since he went out of his way to cook breakfast for me.' She took another spoonful and blew on it before eating and swallowing it, trying to ignore the sourness of each bite she took. She managed to wash it down with the orange juice, which happened to have tasted like a mixture of lime and cherry "This was a delicious meal, Discord, but I should probably get tending to my animals now. They're probably hungry..."

Discord nodded "I understand, Fluttershy. You do your thing while I do mine." He said as he snapped his talons to make Fluttershy's dishes disappear and reappear next to him, clean as a whistle.

Fluttershy rose from her chair and trotted to one of the cupboards, fishing out bags of feed for her indoor and outdoor animals, followed by another to pull out one of the carrots she bought the other day. When she collected enough, she got started with feeding the animals in her home, all of which vigorously gathered to have their morning meals; It was a chore to keep them all civilized while they ate, since they tend to push and shove to have more portions for themselves. Afterwards, she decided to go outside with her remaining bags and proceed with tending to her outdoor animals.

As she stepped out, however, her eyes rested on the Everfree Forest once more, and a familiar spine-chilling sensation coursed through Fluttershy's body as she dropped the bags; she already remembered that haunting encounter that happened deep within the woods that scared her out of her wits. A small hit to one of her forelegs snapped her out of her trance, and she looked down to see a rabbit tapping his foot impatiently while his paws were crossed "Oh, I'm sorry, Angel...I was zoning out for the moment." She smiled and gave him her carrot "There you are, my little bunny. I gotta go feed your friends now, so I'll check on you later, okay?"

Angel did not respond as he nibbled on his carrot ravenously while Fluttershy watched with a frown. She decided to picked up her bags and go back to feeding the animals. When she reached a family of ducks, she began pouring out their breakfast and they gathered to properly eat it. While she watched in content silence, her ear twitched when she heard the sound of a rustling bush.

Fluttershy perked up and looked around until her eyes fell on one of the large bushes along the borders of the Everfree Forest "Huh? What could possibly be there?" She thought she was hearing things until the timid pegasus noticed the bush shake again "Oh dear. Did Mr. Porcupine get stuck in the bushes again?" She asked with mild concern as she trotted over towards it. Fluttershy used her forehooves to push aside the brances and leaves "Hello?" A brief twitch followed by a whimper was heard; a familiar whimper that caught Fluttershy's attention with ease. She stared blankly before she pushed through more branches. After she dug deep enough into the bush, she noticed the face of a pony.

It was what appeared to be a feminine stallion staring back at Fluttershy with introverted and confused purple eyes; Its coat was jet black and its unruly mane was a lighter pink than Fluttershy's. They stared blankly at each other for what felt like an eternity...

And then they both screamed in fright.

End of Chapter 1

Chapter 2

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Chapter 2

Enter Crona! A pony more fearful than Fluttershy?

After the two ponies ended their screaming session, they quickly bolted away from each other; Fluttershy distanced herself and quickly hid behind a nearby tree while the mystery pony dove deeper into the bush.

Fluttershy shivered to herself, then gradually calmed down when she thought about the face she had just seen 'Whoever that was, they seem to be lost and scared.' The timid pegasus peered her head over towards the bush and frowned 'Oh my...I probably made it worse on the poor thing. I should go over and help them out.' She cautiously stepped towards the bush and peered inside the area she pushed out of the way "Hello? Are you still there?" Fluttershy got a whimper in response "Whoever you are, I'm very sorry about screaming earlier; You startled me, and I somehow ended up startling you. Can you please come out from where you're hiding?"

There was no response, and Fluttershy decided to dig deeper until she heard frantic galloping from behind her, pulling her head out and looking back to see a shivering silhouette behind the tree she used to hide herself with earlier. She stared at it before she trotted over "Um...You don't have to hide from me." Fluttershy said as she trotted towards the right side. The pony whimpered before quickly shimmying to the left, keeping its face covered. Fluttershy blinked at this, then trotted towards the left "I won't hurt you; I promise. Can you please let me talk to you?" The pony quickly shimmied back to the right. Fluttershy was perplexed by this chain of actions; It was as if somepony had replaced her with their display of cowardice.

This pony behind the tree had made Fluttershy seem more sociable around others, new faces included. She took a deep breath and tried to convince the pony to cease hiding "Won't you please show me who you are? Pretty please? I can see where you're coming from, hiding behind the tree like that. I'm not so good at meeting new faces myself." She looked away "In fact, I'd be lucky to talk to anypony I meet..." The timid pegasus shifted her gaze back towards the tree with a hopeful smile "Can you come out now? If not, I understand you don't feel like talking..."

There was a moment of silence, and much to Fluttershy's hidden joy, the mystery pony slowly shifted into view from its hiding place. She got a full glimpse of a frightened earth pony with a black coat. It was in a stance similar to that of a newborn deer trying to stand. Fluttershy examined the pony's cutie mark and noticed what appeared to be a strange head with a silver cross on its face; two spheres of the same color with black crosses inside of them resembled its eyes.

Both ponies were silent until Fluttershy donned a warm smile "Um...Hello there..."

The pony stared at Fluttershy before quickly looking away "H-Hi..." It muttered in a feeble and childish tone.

Fluttershy took a step forward in an attempt to approach the pony, to which it cringed and tried to hide its face. She instantly stood still at this, not wanting to make the new visitor uncomfortable "Are you lost? Do you need any help?" She asked in a comforting tone.

The pony didn't answer; all it did was cringe even more to try and hide its face. Fluttershy frowned "I'm very sorry if I scared you like that, I never expected to see a new face near my home. Can you tell me your name?"

Fluttershy's kind voice somehow enticed the mystery pony to comply as it tried to look back at her. It took a step back while it tried to lock eyes with the timid pegasus "Crona...I-It's Crona."

It was a start that Crona was beginning to open up. Fluttershy was willing to start out slowly with another pony, especially since this one was as introverted, if not more than herself. She smiled "Nice to meet you, Crona. I'm Fluttershy. Do you want to come inside? I can make you some food if you're hungry."

Crona looked at Fluttershy "Really? I've never been offered food here before..." It looked down and had a light blush "Um...You really don't mind making me something, do you?" Crona asked with a look of reluctance on its face.

Fluttershy approached Crona and laid a hoof on its shoulder, causing the frightful pony to flinch "Don't feel bad. You just need some help is all. Allow me to do that for you."

Crona stared at Fluttershy, then nodded slowly "O-Okay..." It then looked down with a frown, causing the timid pegasus to tilt her head in confusion "I really am lost...I don't know how to deal with it..."

Fluttershy led her new guest towards the cottage, passing Angel while he was finishing his carrot. After gulping down his last bite, he caught a glimpse of Crona and quickly followed after the two ponies. When they reached the front door, Fluttershy opened it up and guided Crona inside "Here we are. Now let's get you into the kitchen so we can give you some food. Then I can help you out with directions."

Crona looked around "Wow...So many animals in one place." It said in slight awe while it took in the sight of the living room.

Fluttershy smiled "Do you like it? It's my job to care for the animals around here; these ones are just my indoor pets."

The frightful stranger hummed "Pets...I never had a pet before." Something hit Crona's leg followed by a squeak, and it looked down to see Angel, who was busy hopping up and down while holding one of his feet with a look of pain on his face "Huh? A rabbit?"

Fluttershy looked down and noticed Angel in pain with a concerned frown "Angel! Oh dear, what happened? Did you hurt yourself?" She said as she lifted the rabbit up and gently caressed his sore foot. Angel tried to ignore his pain and glared while pointing at Crona, who flinched at both actions. Fluttershy followed his paw and stared at Crona "Crona, did you hurt Angel?" She asked inquisitively.

Crona shivered and frantically shook its head "No, I didn't! I looked down at the rabbit and he was holding is foot." He then brought up one of its hooves, examining it "Something hit me though. I don't know what it was..."

Fluttershy stared until she looked down at Angel "Did you try to hurt Crona, Angel?" Angel looked away with an indifferent glance "You know it's rude to hurt visitors. Apologize to Crona right now." She said with a stern tone.

The rabbit heaved a sigh and begrudgingly held out a paw. Crona examined it briefly before gingerly extending a hoof to meet with it.

"What's all this then?"

The trio turned to see a certain draconequus stroll into the living room and smirk "Am I hearing the sound of company? Who's inside the cottage, Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy turned to Discord with a smile "Oh, right. I haven't introduced you yet!" She directed a hoof "Discord, I would like for you to meet Crona." Fluttershy proclaimed cheerfully.

Discord blinked "You made an imaginary friend?"

Fluttershy was confused by Discord's question, then turned to see where Crona once stood, not finding a trace of the frightful guest anywhere. She darted her head around "Crona? Where did you go?"

Discord looked around, then pointed a talon at the couch with an unamused expression "Does that answer your question, Fluttershy?"

Fluttershy followed Discord's talon and noticed Crona's bottom half sticking out from behind the couch, shivering profusely "There's a giant monster in the house. I don't know how to deal with that." Crona mewled.

Discord gave a mock pout "Hey now~! Just because I'm an amalgamation of different animals doesn't mean I don't have feelings." He said as he crossed his arms and turned his head away.

Fluttershy winced and then set down Angel as she trotted over to the couch, gently nudging Crona out of its hiding place as it sat on the floor "Don't worry, Crona. Discord is a sweetheart once you get to know him better. He won't hurt you." She said with a reassuring smile as she gradually drew Crona out into plain sight.

Catching Fluttershy off-guard, Crona latched onto her tightly as it shivered and regarded Discord with dilated pupils and fearfully bared teeth, to which the draconequus was instantly intrigued "My my...It's like I'm seeing double!" Discord said incredulously.

Fluttershy nearly struggled with Crona wrapped around her, but frowned at Discord's remark "I can't be that afraid, can I?"

Discord stroked his goatee as he examined Crona "When you put it like that, no you can't. I'll bet this little pony could be a more fearful version of yourself." He hummed "Something's missing..." Discord said as he snapped his talons. In a flash, a pair of wings appeared on Crona's back "There we are; A second Fluttershy!" Discord said with a satisfied smile.

Crona blinked, then examined its back. Its eyes widened at the sight of its new growth "Wh-...When did I have wings?"

Fluttershy turned to Discord "Um...You shouldn't pick on Crona like that, Discord. He..." She trailed off for a moment, then turned to face Crona while it continued to stare at its new wings "She..." Fluttershy added awkardly. She looked away with a wince, having trouble deciding Crona's gender "Oh my..."

Discord tilted his head "Don't like wings, do you? How about a horn?" He snapped his talons, and Crona's wings disappeared. In their place, a horn had appeared on the frightful pony's forehead. Discord smiled as he observed the new look "Personally, I'd prefer you as a unicorn; It makes you more distinguishable between you and Fluttershy."

Crona noticed the horn and was startled "There's a horn on my head now. I don't know how to deal with this!"

Fluttershy was disheartened over Crona's worry and turned to Discord "Please don't mess with Crona anymore, Discord."

Discord held up a paw "Okay, I'll stop now..." A snap of his talons made Crona's horn disappear "Tell me, dear Crona, where did you come from? You must be new here." He said with intrigue.

Crona quickly hid its face behind Fluttershy and shivered. The timid pegasus gently brought it out and smiled, trying to give Crona the courage to speak. It faced Discord and frowned "I-I came from a forest..." There was a silence in the room after Crona's answer "Is that a bad thing?" It asked nervously when he caught on to the silence.

Discord stared blankly before turning to Fluttershy "Fluttershy? A word in the kitchen please? In private?" He emphasized his last question as he gazed intently at her.

Fluttershy was nearly caught in a daze over Crona's answer before she replied to Discord "Sure. I'll be right with you." She turned to Crona with a smile "We won't be long, Crona. Why don't you bond with Angel Bunny while me and Discord have our talk?"

Crona stared at Fluttershy, then looked down at the glaring bunny next to him, feeling discouraged "I don't know...I don't think Angel likes me." It said reluctantly.

Fluttershy gently placed a hoof on Crona's shoulder "Angel knows when to behave. If he ever gives you any trouble, feel free to let me know."

Crona looked at Fluttershy, then slowly nodded "O-Okay..." After its response, Fluttershy and Discord made their way into the kitchen, leaving Crona behind with Angel and the other animals, who eyed the house guest with a mixture of caution and intrigue.

Angel, for his part, continued to leer at Crona despite the apology he made earlier; There was something about this seemingly introverted pony that set him off. He watched Crona shimmy away with a fearful glance and narrowed his eyes as he took a step forward, eliciting a whimper from it. Angel simply hopped forward, wanting to get a better look at Crona while contemplating on how to handle the unwanted stranger.

Meanwhile, Discord and Fluttershy stood in the kitchen, the former bearing a smile on his face "Fluttershy, I believe that your wish had somehow come true."

Fluttershy felt her heart stop "But that can't be it. I mean, we've only just met Crona and-...and-..." She clenched her teeth with towering anxiety.

Discord crossed his arms "You're trying not to peg Crona as the 'killer pony' you've seen last night, right?"

Fluttershy looked up at Discord with a saddened glance "Crona couldn't possibly be the same pony I've seen..." She looked down "The pony I've seen was a whole lot different..." Fluttershy muttered, disturbed by what she had seen.

Discord shrugged "Well, as you've said, we've only just met Crona. There could be more to that pony than meets the eye." He smiled "Besides, whether or not Crona IS the particular pony you've mentioned, I'd say you've gotten your wish..."

Fluttershy donned a confused glance "What are you talking about?"

Discord waved his eagle claw in a circle "Try to keep up with me, Fluttershy. Did you or did you not make a wish to care for a pony who needed it most?" He pointed a claw towards the doorway leading to the living room "The pony you wished for is waiting for your undying attention; This is your chance to shine as the Element of Kindness!"

Fluttershy stared into the doorway, though didn't get a good look at Crona, and thought over Discord's explanation before she had a look of realization on her face "You're right..." She smiled "Maybe Crona needs our help." Fluttershy turned to Discord "Thank you for opening my eyes, Discord. I think if we pull through, we might give Crona the drive to be a better pony!"

Discord stared before pointing up a claw "Erm, while I'm okay with lending a helping hand, do you not remember that Crona would duck and cover the moment I'm in the pony's sights?"

Fluttershy held up a hoof "Crona just needs some time to adjust is all. Who knows? Maybe Angel will get along with Crona just fine." A squirting sound and a scream was heard from the other room, followed by a frightened squeak. Before Fluttershy and Discord could see what it was, they noticed Angel quickly scampering up to the former with a look of fear on his face, pointing back into the living room.

"Yeah, you better run, you little runt! No one picks on Crona but me!"

Upon hearing the harsh and raspy voice, Fluttershy and Discord traded glances before rushing into the living room to see Crona with an unsightly growth upon its back, surprising them both. It was a second body sporting ebony skin and a head resembling Crona's cutie mark; It had two large white paws rested atop Crona's mane; There were a pair of spikes seen on its back while its face appeared to have an angry expression with no mouth seen "I can't even enjoy a good nap without something to piss me off." The growth looked around "Where are we anyways?"

Crona looked up at its growth, unaware of Fluttershy or Discord's presence "We're in Fluttershy's cottage. She's really nice and she's a pony just like me." It then looked down "But I still don't know how to deal with being this way..."

The growth scoffed "Well, I'm already stuck with you and you don't see me whining about it! Now get up and let's get out of here!"

Fluttershy cautiously approached the two "Umm...Excuse me?" She asked hesitantly, still freaked out over the sight of Crona's growth.

Crona looked over at Fluttershy "Oh...hello. Are you done talking?" It looked over and Discord and yelped before it shivered.

The growth examined the two with a tilted head "Who the hell are you two?"

Discord laid a paw on his chest "A pleasure to meet you, my little black friend. My name is Discord." He approached the growth with a cheerful smile "And I must say that you're quite the little imp bursting out of Crona like that! May we have your name, please?"

The growth grunted at Discord "The name's Ragnarok! And who are you calling an imp, ugly!?"

Discord chuckled "My my, quite the mouth on you. I'd say the girls would have a field day with you..." He paused before turning to Fluttershy "Actually, would we even want to send an ambiguous pony with a mutant freckle out in the open?"

Fluttershy stared at Ragnarok until she looked down with a frown "Oh dear...We wouldn't want everypony to be afraid of Crona." She looked back at Crona and Ragnarok "It also wouldn't help to have so much attention drawn towards the two of them."

Ragnarok pointed one of his paws "Says you! I don't care what anyone thinks if they get look at me OR Crona! Besides, what does it matter to you two anyways?" He asked with his face acting like it had an arched eyebrow.

Discord crossed his arms "Well, for starters, everypony in Ponyville doesn't have a second growth with a potty mouth on their backs. Secondly, knowing Crona's tremendously timid nature, we'd be lucky if the poor little thing could even socialize with another pony!"

Crona frowned "I don't feel like going out there just yet. I don't think I can handle it..." It murmured as it looked away.

Fluttershy smiled "I understand. It's not easy to talk to everypony you meet." She helped up Crona to stand on its hooves "Maybe we can fix you the meal I promised and talk before going out and meeting my friends?"

Crona stared at Fluttershy before a ghost of a smile was seen on its face, giving a nod to the timid pegasus' offer. Ragnarok leaned towards Fluttershy "So you're going to give us food? Are you any good at cooking?"

Fluttershy nodded "Of course. I'll make sure it's to your liking so you won't feel unsatisfied." She said with a kind smile.

Discord held a smile of his own 'That's Fluttershy for you...' He held up a paw "Well, while you all are going to share a moment with each other, I'll be going out for a bit."

Fluttershy looked up "You're not going to stay with us, Discord?"

Discord waved a dismissive paw "Please, I'll end up traumatizing poor Crona even further. Besides, I'll come back sooner than you think. Toodles!" He said as he snapped his talons and winked out of existence, startling Crona.

Crona looked around "How did he do that? Where did he go?"

Fluttershy smiled awkwardly "Don't worry, Crona. Discord only teleported out of my home; it's nothing to be scared of..." She paused before she added "It's only scary if they appear in front of or behind you..."

Crona frowned "That's the worst; I don't know how to deal with surprises."

Fluttershy frowned "Oh, me, too." She said before smiling "I guess we might have some things in common, don't you think, Crona?" Fluttershy asked in a friendly manner.

"U-Um...Maybe..." Crona said as it shifted its eyes away.

Ragnarok shook a fist "Hey! Are you gonna make us food or not?"

Fluttershy perked up "Oh, right! Just come with me and I'll give you a meal before I go back to feeding the animals." She said as she led the two back into the kitchen.

End of Chapter 2

Chapter 3

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Chapter 3

A new circle of friends! Open up to Equestria?

Discord hovered around Ponyville, tittering to himself over the thought of introducing Crona to the rest of the town once the time was right 'That Crona is really something. I wonder how the others will react once they get a better look at that lovable coward.' He looked up while he thought to himself 'Come to think of it...How could one so timid come off as a killer unless they're pushed in a corner?' He looked back at the cottage in the far distance 'Well, it's best to stay cautious about these things, but maybe I could just invite Fluttershy's friends over so they can get a better look at Crona for themselves.'

When he came to his decision, Discord decided to scour Ponyville for Fluttershy's friends. He flew around in the sky in a serpentine pattern while he tried to spot them "Who to find first? Decisions, decisions..." He asked himself

"Hey, Discord!"

The draconequus looked down below to see a pink pony grinning up at him while waving a hoof frantically. Clearly, he knew what she wanted, and he snapped his talons with a smile "Hello to you, Pinkie Pie." A cloud of cotton candy appeared next to him and rained down droplets of chocolate milk, to which Pinkie Pie eagerly opened her mouth and let the downpour trail into her mouth. Discord swooped down next to Pinkie while she indulged herself with his gracious gift "Tell me, Pinkie, would you like to come with me and find the rest of your friends? There's something that they need to see at Fluttershy's cottage." He said in a persuading tone.

Pinkie gulped down another mouthful of chocolate milk before turning to Discord while she soaked in the rain "Did you do something chaotic again?" She asked in a suspicious tone.

Discord laughed "Of course not! If I did, I'd make sure everypony would know it was me." He looked away "Everypony but Celestia, of course..." He murmured under his breath.

Pinkie smiled while she trotted in place "So what's going on at Fluttershy's? Is it something neat?" She asked in a bubbly manner.

Discord rolled his eyes "Well that depends on your personal preference, but I want this to be a surprise. Now why don't we round up your friends from their activities and gather back at Fluttershy's?"

Pinkie grinned "Well, if your surprise is as neat as I think it is, then let's go!" She said as she pronked away "Let's find Dashie first. I think she's napping around this time."

Discord smirked to himself "Lead the way." He inwardly laughed when he imagined Pinkie meeting Crona; No doubt she would frighten the ambiguous pony more than himself.
_____

Fluttershy was busy fixing a meal for Crona and Ragnarok while they sat at the table waiting patiently; Ragnarok perched himself onto Crona's head while he stared at the timid pegasus at work. He looked down at the pony below him "Are you sure we can even trust this girl, Crona? She's like you, but with wings!"

Crona looked up at Ragnarok "I think Fluttershy's nice. She reminds me of Miss Marie."

Fluttershy heard the two converse and stopped for a moment to look back at them, curious about the person that was mentioned "Pardon me for asking this, but who is Miss Marie? Is she somepony dear to you?"

Ragnarok darted his head towards Fluttershy and narrowed his eyes "None of your business!" He snapped harshly, causing Fluttershy to recoil.

Crona frowned in embarrassment and penitence as Fluttershy felt deterred "I-I'm sorry. You just remind me of her is all. Please don't be mad at me."

Fluttershy smiled at Crona after its apology "Oh, it's alright. If it's too personal, I won't get into it." She looked up at Ragnarok "I suppose Ragnarok's being protective of you, even if he was mean about it..."

Ragnarok squinted his eyes "I'm only letting this slide because your feeding us." He pointed a paw at Fluttershy "Don't try and mess with me or Crona, you hear me?" Ragnarok warned strictly.

Crona looked up at Ragnarok "But Ragnarok, Fluttershy didn't even mess with us at all."

Ragnarok looked down at Crona "Shut up, I'm protecting you."

Fluttershy frowned "Oh my..." She stifled a wince at the sight of Ragnarok 'How does Crona put up with somepony so mean for so long?' She quietly returned to preparing her meal for the two guests. When it was ready, she carried two plates on her back, then set them on the table for both Crona and Ragnarok "Here you go. I hope you like it." She said in a cheerful tone.

Crona and Ragnarok blinked at the food on their plates; Both of them contained what appeared to be strips of hay shaped like bacon with a side of eggs. Ragnarok turned to Fluttershy while pointing a paw at the food "What's this?"

Fluttershy tilted her head "You don't like hay bacon and eggs?"

Ragnarok fumed "Hay!? Do I look like a horse to you!?"

Fluttershy flinched at Ragnarok's anger "I-I'm sorry. I can make you something else if you want..." Chewing was heard, and Fluttershy noticed Crona digging into its plate hesitantly "Do you like it, Crona?"

After swallowing a bite, Crona stared at the food in awe "It's...It's delicious." Crona took another bite of the bacon after its compliment.

Ragnarok was stupified by Crona's response, then stretched down towards his own plate "Move aside, I wanna eat, too!"

Fluttershy smiled at Crona, then looked at Ragnarok after realizing something "Ummm, Ragnarok? How can you eat without a mouth?"

Ragnarok turned to Fluttershy "I do have a mouth. Wanna see?" He asked as a large mouth formed under his face; There was large teeth, a long tongue, and some drool to symbolize the growth's hunger. The sight alone had nearly traumatized Fluttershy, especially when he lapped up the food on his plate with his tongue and chewed loudly.

When Crona was finished, it heaved a content sigh and turned to Fluttershy "Thank you for the food. I'm sorry for bothering you."

Fluttershy trotted over to Crona and gave a light nuzzle "Don't worry, you haven't bothered me at all. I'm just glad you're well fed..." She paused "Fed..." Fluttershy gasped "Oh my goodness! I have to finish feeding the animals!" She hissed before turning to Crona "Can you please stay inside for a moment? I need to go take care of the animals outside."

Crona stared before nodding "Um...O-Okay..." Fluttershy quicky darted out of the front door after leaving the two behind. Crona stared the door before looking down 'She's really nice. Definitely like Miss Marie...' While it sat down, anxiety began to rise within Crona 'I don't get it...Why am I here? Why am I not back at Death City? What's going on!?' Crona's pupils shrank and it bared its teeth while more questions were added to its mind. A bump on its head snapped Crona out of its thoughts and looked up to see an impatient Ragnarok looming over its head "Ragnarok? What's wrong?"

Ragnarok pointed out the front door "Well don't just stand there, you idiot! Go get her!"

Crona blinked "You mean Fluttershy? But why?"

Ragnarok stared at his dish "Because I never thought I'd meet somebody who could cook better than that Tsubaki girl..." He pointed at the door again "Now get going! I want more food!"

Crona quickly nodded and hopped out of its seat, then trotted towards the door while Ragnarok chose to sink back into his host's body.
_____

Discord marched as if he were in a parade while a group of ponies and one dragon followed behind him with looks of curiousity, one of which being a pronking Pinkie Pie.

A lavender unicorn with a cutie mark containing several stars held a skeptical glance at Discord "You seem pretty happy about this." She asked as she raised an eyebrow "Something tells me you're up to something, Discord..."

Discord looked back at the unicorn with a smug smile "Am I, Twilight Sparkle? Trust me when I say that you all will be in for a treat once we reach Fluttershy's place."

A small dragon sat on Twilight's back "Did she make something she wanted to surprise us with? Or is it something else?" He asked as he tilted his head.

Discord laughed "Like Fluttershy would make a surprise!" He then caught himself with a blank stare '...Well that didn't defend my case at all...' He turned to the group and held out his claw and paw in a placating motion "What I meant to say was, this IS going to be something else, but nothing like you've ever imagined. That's why I brought you with me."

Pinkie grinned "Discord says that it's gonna be neat!"

An orange pony with a stetson frowned "Jus' as long as ya ain't yankin' our chains, we'll come with ya." She said in a southern drawl "Fluttershy seems t' trust ya, an' y'all 've been close since ya became friends."

A rainbow-maned pegasus hovered over the group with a scowl "I'll bet it's just another prank." She muttered angrily.

Discord snickered before facing the pegasus "Oh, come now, Rainbow Dash, there's no need for suspicions." His smile widened "Besides, all me and Pinkie did was wake you up with some news."

Rainbow Dash bared her teeth "With the old-fashioned 'Shaving cream on my hoof' prank!" She growled irritably.

Pinkie giggled "It was a good idea at the time! Besides, we love pranks, don't we, Dashie?"

Rainbow Dash scoffed "Whatever. Discord better be telling the truth if he knows what's good for him."

A white unicorn with a stylish purple mane trotted along with her friends "I'm certain Fluttershy sent for Discord to find us if this 'surprise' is of utmost importance. But what could it possibly be?" She asked with a curious glance.

Discord chuckled "Don't worry, everypony. Fluttershy's cottage is only a stone's throw away." He looked over to see the mentioned pegasus tending to her animals 'Wait a minute...If she's out there, then is Crona still inside?' He noticed the front door slowly open to see a set of cautious eyes peering out of it, then opening further to have Crona showing its head to look around. When its eyes fell on Discord and his group of ponies, Crona held an expression of fear before zipping back inside and slamming the door.

Twilight noticed and blinked at the gesture as they neared Fluttershy's cottage "Who was that just now?"

Discord smirked "That, Twilight, would be the surprise I've mentioned."

Pinkie's eyes glimmered with joy "No way..." She whispered in excitement. When it comes to surprises, Pinkie always enjoyed seeing a new face in Ponyville. She zipped towards Fluttershy and stopped next to her, startling her friend easily "Fluttershy, you never told us you met a new pony before! You totally have to introduce us!"

Fluttershy stared "New pony-Oh!" She turned to the door "But how did you..." She then noticed Discord grinning while waving a lion paw and sighed "Oh..." Fluttershy waited for her friends to gather and managed a smiled "Hello, everyone. I'm guessing Discord told you about our new guest?"

Twilight held up a hoof "He said it was a surprise, and we were close to thinking he was about to pull a fast one on us all."

Discord turned away and crossed his arms as he shook his head "No respect, no respect..." He muttered in mock bitterness.

Rainbow Dash landed next to Fluttershy "So who's the new pony in town, Fluttershy? You gonna show us or what?"

The orange mare looked over at the front door "Judgin' by what happened back there, Ah reckon that pony don't seem too fond o' company."

Fluttershy grinned awkwardly "Well, you see, Crona's very shy." She looked away "More shy than me actually...It actually makes me feel comfortable that there's somepony I can relate to." She said with a sincere smile.

Discord held up a claw "Or so you may think." He added in a matter-of-fact tone "Why don't you bring little Crona outside while we wait here?"

Fluttershy nodded "I suppose I could." She looked back at the animals that expected more food "Don't worry, my pretties. I'll make sure you'll all eat well. I just need to introduce somepony to my friends." Fluttershy reassured as she trotted towards the front door, opening it and going inside "Crona? Are you there?" She looked around, and then noticed Crona hiding behind the couch again. Fluttershy approached the frightful pony and gently nudged it out of its hiding place "I hope you don't mind, but my friends would like to meet you. If that's okay, I mean."

Crona fidgeted its hooves as it looked away "I-I don't wanna go out there...I'm not ready to talk."

Fluttershy smiled gently "Don't worry. My friends are just as nice as I am to you. I'm sure they'll enjoy getting to know you."

Crona looked at Fluttershy "But there are so many...I don't know how to-" It was interrupted by a hoof on its shoulder.

Fluttershy looked into Crona's eyes "Don't worry, Crona. I'll be at your side. I know you'll be able to make some friends if you just try."

Crona stared back "F-Friends?" After a moment of pause, it nodded "O-Okay...I'll try."

Fluttershy smiled "Good. Now let's go outside."

Ragnarok emerged out of Crona's back, startling both ponies "Not before you feed me first!"

Crona flinched and looked down "Oh yeah...That's what I meant to bring up to you earlier. Ragnarok really liked your food and wanted some more."

Fluttershy looked up at Ragnarok and giggled "That's very sweet of you, Ragnarok." She turned to the front door "I'll tell you what. You let Crona come outside for a bit, and later you can have plenty of food."

Ragnarok widened its strange eyes "Really?"

Fluttershy nodded "But I need you to stay in Crona's body around that time." She smiled at the rude growth "Can you do that for me?"

Ragnarok stared at Fluttershy's kind glance, then lightly groaned as he responded "Okay fine." He pointed a paw "But you better stick to your promise! I wanna see loads of food waiting for me when the time comes!"

Fluttershy smiled "I promise." She replied kindly.

Ragnarok chuckled "Looks like we got ourselves a sweet deal." He looked down at Crona "Okay, Crona, you know what to do. You better not louse this up!" Ragnarok warned as he sunk back into Crona's body.

Fluttershy winced "Oh my...Doesn't that hurt?"

Crona looked down "...It used to, but I've learned to deal with it."

Fluttershy stared at Crona for a moment and thought to herself 'Where could Crona have come from?? Could it be from a far away place?' She said as she mulled over how Ragnarok was inside its body. Deciding to go over it at a later time, Fluttershy guided Crona out the front door as she took point. When they stepped into the sunlight, however, she noticed how Crona had expertly hid itself behind her "Oh, Crona, you don't have to do that..." She received a whimper in response, then sighed as Fluttershy trotted along, dealing with the fact that Crona had made her seem as sociable and open as Pinkie Pie.

When she reached her friends, they all looked confused when they saw Fluttershy standing with Crona hiding behind her "Everypony..." She stopped and looked behind her, moving aside a few paces "I'd like for you to meet..." Crona amazingly mimicked her movement at the same time as it tried making itself invisible to the others "Oh dear..." She moved towards the opposite direction and received the same results. Fluttershy frowned and looked behind her "Please come out. I know it isn't easy, but they wish to meet you."

Rainbow Dash pointed a hoof "Is that pony some kind of ninja?" She asked with mild sarcasm.

Pinkie grinned widely "A ninja? That's even better!"

Twilight frowned "Come on, girls, Fluttershy said that her guest is more shy than she was." She rubbed her chin with a thougthful glance "Come to think of it, is that even possible?" Twilight asked.

Fluttershy ignored Twilight's question and turned around to where she faced Crona "Remember, I'm at your side. You can do this." She received a reluctant nod before succeeding in revealing Crona to her friends. It was expected that the frightful pony did not make eye contact as it stood next to Fluttershy "Everypony, I'd like for you all to meet Crona."

Before Crona could speak, Pinkie was found in front of it "Hi there, Crona!" Crona yelped and backed away from the eager pony as she continued "My name's Pinkie Pie. It's so nice to meet a new face here in Ponyville! Where are you from? What's your special talent?"

Fluttershy interrupted Pinkie's rambling with a pleading frown "Pinkie, I know you like to meet new ponies, but could you show some restraint with Crona?"

Pinkie smiled "Okie Dokie Loki!" Her smile vanished as she gazed at Crona "There's something that bothers me, though..." Fluttershy and Crona were both unsettled by Pinkie's response. She took a step forward and squinted her eyes at Crona, adding more unease to the frightful pony. Her eyes nearly bore into Crona's soul as she spoke up...

"Are you a stallion or a mare?"

There was a lavish and awkward silence around the group that was broken by a snickering Discord. Pinkie drew herself back and scratched at her head "I know I shouldn't ask this, but it's so hard to tell with you. Could you tell us, please? Because I'm having so much trouble right now!"

Before Crona could speak, the white unicorn huffed "For the love of Celestia, Pinkie Pie, couldn't you be more mindful of poor Crona?" She trotted up to the frightful pony and smiled at it "Clearly, this one is a mare. Can't you tell by her delicate frame and her demure background?" The unicorn placed a hoof on her chest "Good afternoon, Crona. Allow me to introduce myself to you. My name is Rarity, and let me tell you that it is a pleasure to meet your acquaintence."

When Rarity finished, the orange mare frowned "Now wait just a cotton pickin' minute. How can we be sure that stallion's a mare jus' because he looks feminine?" She pointed a hoof at Crona "That boy's 'bout as skinny as a rail!" The orange mare approached the frightful pony and examined its features up close "Not t' mention he don't really seem all that much of a mare once ya get a good look at his eyes." She said as she tipped her stetson in greeting "Howdy there, partner. Th' name's Applejack. Nice t' meet ya!"

Crona inched away from Applejack and looked away "H-Hello..." It mumbled feebly.

Rainbow Dash hovered over Crona and examined it from above "You know, AJ, I kinda see where Rarity's coming from. When was the last time you've ever seen a stallion act like that?" She asked as she pointed a hoof at Crona, who crouched towards the ground when it noticed Rainbow Dash above it.

Fluttershy frowned in concern "Oh dear. Please, girls, give Crona some room." She pleaded her friends. Fluttershy was happy when they complied to her request.

Twilight hummed to herself after thinking over her friends' assumptions on Crona's gender "You know, girls, maybe there's a reason Crona's gender is hard to tell." The others turned to her as she continued "I know you all have your opinions, but don't you think that maybe Crona's androgynous?"

Rainbow Dash stared "Can you repeat that, please? We don't exactly speak 'egghead' over here." She quipped as she tried to process Twilight's information.

Twilight shot Rainbow Dash a look before she took a deep breath and continued "What I'm saying is, Crona's gender could very well be unspecified. We all might have our assumptions of gender, but we may end up being wrong about it in the future."

Discord smiled "I happen to know Crona's gender..." He said, drawing the attention of the others.

Rainbow Dash glided towards Discord with a skeptical glance "Oh really? Then what is Crona?" She asked inquisitively.

Discord shifted his eyes "Well, the thing is..." He paused for dramatic effect before hovering into the air with his arms spread out "I'm not telling~!" He said in a singsong tone, agitating the pegasus in front of him.

Twilight shook her head at Discord's antics "Dismissing the unneeded prank, it's best not to go so far as to assuming Crona's gender from the get-go."

Rarity frowned "Now, Twilight, who's to claim that Crona has an unknown gender? I'm most certain that she's a mare."

Applejack piped up "An' Ah'm most certain Crona's just a small stallion."

Pinkie grinned "Why not both?" She asked obliviously. Rarity and Applejack both shared dumbfounded glances towards the party pony that demanded an explanation for her question "Maybe Crona's both a stallion AND a mare."

The small dragon hopped off of Twilight's back and waddled up to Crona "Why don't we ask Crona?" He smiled up at the mentioned pony "Hi there. I'm Spike." The dragon introduced as he held out a claw.

Crona stared down at Spike in silence. The more it stared, the more it felt an unneeded familiarity from the purple dragon. As Crona stared, the memories pooled in its mind, and its eyes widened as it whimpered before backing away.

Spike looked confused "What's wrong? Is there something on my face?" He noticed Crona quickly hide behind Fluttershy as it shivered profusely "Oh, come on. I'm not that scary!" He paused before examining himself "Am I?"

Fluttershy looked back at Crona, whose eyes were widened with fear as it took solace hiding behind the timid pegasus. She was confused about Crona's actions herself 'I don't get it...Why would Crona be afraid of Spike?'

End of Chapter 3

Chapter 4

View Online

Chapter 4

Story of the Demon Sword Ragnarok! Crona's blood is black?

Twilight blinked at Crona's gesture towards Spike "What's wrong with Crona? There isn't a reason to be afraid of Spike, is there?"

Fluttershy looked back at Crona "That's right. Spike's a baby dragon. Not to mention he's one of our friends. Is there something wrong, Crona?"

Crona's terrified eyes were locked on a confused Spike as it mewled "Th-The little one...The little one..."

Twilight tilted her head "The little one?" She parroted curiously.

Pinkie held up her forelegs "Duh~! Of course Spike's little! He's a baby dragon, silly!"

Crona drew itself back with a wince while it stared at Spike "I-...I don't know how to deal with this!" It blurted out as it ducked its head behind Fluttershy.

Spike scratched his head "Okay, so now all of the sudden I'm terrifying? Or is Crona THAT scared?"

Discord laid in a comfortable position in the air "It's the latter. Definitely the latter." He replied nonchalantly.

Fluttershy wrapped her forelegs around Crona as she tried to comfort it "But Spike can't be terrifying at all. Crona, can you please tell us what's wrong?"

Crona returned the embrace tighter than expected while staring fearfully at Spike, shaking its head "I don't want to! I don't want to do it! I already did so much in the forest! I don't want to do it now!" It began to tear up as it weeped.

Rarity approached the two ponies and gently embraced Crona herself "Please, Crona, calm down! You mustn't make such a big deal out of this!" She said in an attempt to comfort the frightened pony.

Applejack cautiously approached the group as well "Can ya try t' tell us what's botherin' ya, sugarcube?" She asked Crona.

Rainbow Dash looked down at Crona "Do what? What are you talking about?"

Growing uncomfortable with Crona's sudden change of behavior, Twilight tried to take matters into her own hooves and levitated Spike towards her as she hid him behind herself out of Crona's sight "Look, Crona. Spike's gone!" Crona slowly brought its head out to glance "See? Nowhere to be seen." She said in an encouraging tone.

Spike murmured from behind Twilight "This isn't gonna work, you know." He received a shush in response.

Twilight continued despite Spike's remark "Don't worry, there's nothing to worry about now. He's gone." She smiled when she noticed Crona expectedly calming down and loosening her grip on Fluttershy.

Crona looked around "Is he really gone?"

Twilight nodded "Yes, he won't bother you anymore."

Discord looked down at the ponies "Sheesh, and here I thought I was the only thing that made Crona want to turn tail." He said in an incredulous tone.

Rainbow Dash rolled her eyes "Well you still do, this was just unexpected." She inwardly relished the sneer she received from her quip.

Fluttershy wiped the tears from Crona's face "Are you alright now, Crona?"

Crona looked down "I think so..." It cringed with a wince "But I never thought I'd find another little one around here. I don't like it..."

Spike peered from behind Twilight "There's another baby dragon?" He asked curiously. The thought of another dragon that was Spike's age around Equestria was invigorating to him. However, it had also made him ignore the fact that he had to remain secluded for Crona to calm down.

Thinking quickly, Discord snapped his talons and caused Spike to wink out of existence, startling Twilight, who looked up at him with a glare "What? At least now you're telling the truth." Discord defended himself as he shrugged.

Luckily, Crona didn't pay much attention to Spike or his sudden disappearance "It was just like last time...and it was so hard, too. I was punished so many times..."

Fluttershy blinked "Punished for what? Please, Crona, won't you tell us?" She asked in a sweet tone.

Applejack frowned "Y'all don't seem like a bad boy t' me. What did ya do?"

"Okay, screw this!"

The new voice had taken the mares by surprise, and it doubled when they noticed a black residue spewing out of Crona's back that solidified to reveal an irritated Ragnarok looming over his host "Back off! All Crona had to do was get to meet you all and nothing more! We don't need a game of twenty questions!"

Twilight and the others, save for Discord, had eyes the size of dinner plates over the new addition to Crona's body. Except for Pinkie, who only awed at the ebony growth "Whoa...That's so awesome!" She beamed at Crona "How do you do that?"

Ragnarok leered at Pinkie "I don't have to tell you and neither does Crona, so butt out!"

Rarity twitched an eye as she stared at Ragnarok, then draped a hoof over her head and leaned back as she gave a tired moan, fainting on a couch that appeared out of nowhere. Discord smiled at the unconscious mare "You're welcome."

Both Rainbow Dash and Twilight were lost for words; the latter was enthralled at sight of the ebony growth protruding from Crona's back despite his rude behavior, whereas Rainbow Dash couldn't decide between being shocked or disgusted.

Fluttershy winced 'Oh no! Ragnarok wasn't supposed to come out yet!' She darted her head around her yard in hopes of not finding any trace of passing ponies 'I better get everyone inside before somepony sees us!' She tried to raise her voice "Um...Everypony? Can we please-"

The timid mare was cut off as Applejack examined Ragnarok "What in tarnation are you? How long were ya inside o' Crona?"

Ragnarok directed his glare towards Applejack "As long as I can remember. And I don't remember you thinking you can try to worm your way inside of Crona after a little introduction!"

Applejack narrowed her eyes "Ah never even thought o' doin' that t' begin with! Who do ya think ya are?" She said in a defensive tone.

Ragnarok scoffed and looked away "I don't care what you think! You're just a cow that doesn't know any better!"

Applejack was easily agitated as she bared her teeth "Mind repeatin' that, ya varmint?" She said in a low tone.

Ragnarok shifted his strange eyes towards Applejack; amusement was as clear as day in his gaze "What? Are you deaf as well? Guess that's another problem you have to deal with, cow."

Applejack pointed a hoof "Watch it! Another word an' yer gonna be sorry!"

Ragnarok rolled his eyes while he enjoyed pestering his new target "Like you're even threatening to me..." He said apathetically as his eyes quickly landed on Applejack "Cow..."

Applejack had enough with Ragnarok's badmouthing and got a good look at his position before quickly turning around and reeling her hindlegs back, then shooting them out in a mighty buck. However, instead of hitting Ragnarok, she had knocked Crona square in the face while Ragnarok held it as a shield. The very sight had shocked everypony around the three.

Crona was launched like a bullet towards a nearby tree, where its head collided with the bark as Ragnarok sunk back inside its body. When Applejack noticed this, she was instantly regretful of what she had done "Oh horseapples..." She uttered as she and the others quickly gathered around Crona.

The frightful pony was found covering its face with its forelegs while it laid on the ground and faced away from the group, positioned as if it were begging for mercy "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry! Don't hit me again, please!" Crona weeped in fear and remorse.

Applejack approached Crona, trying her best to comfort it despite her earlier action "Don't feel bad, Crona! It wasn't yer fault at all, Ah promise! Ah should be apologizin'!"

Fluttershy made her way towards the groveling pony and carefully lifted it up "Applejack didn't mean it, Crona. We'll help you out." She said soothingly while Crona sniffled and kept its face covered "Just show me your face and let me see what's wrong with you..." She said as she gently took Crona's hooves with one of her own and carefully brought it down to reveal Crona's face; Black blood appeared to be leaking from its nostrils. Fluttershy gave a low gasp "Crona? What's wrong with you?"

Crona sniffled "What? Is it that bad?" It asked anxiously.

Twilight examined Crona herself "Wait a minute...Crona, is that...black blood?" She asked in bewilderment.

Crona blinked at Twilight's question and nodded "Y-Yes...My blood is black..." It muttered as more blood leaked down its muzzle.

Fluttershy was astonished by Crona's second irregularity, never even familiar with the aspect of purely black blood, but shook it off when she guided Crona towards the cottage "Come on inside, Crona, so we can mend your nose..." The rest of the group had followed after the two as they made their way across the bridge.

Rainbow Dash looked down at Crona "Wow, Crona's so odd for a pony...First some rotten growth comes out of her back, then her blood's black? Talk about weird..."

Discord huffed "You really love to call it like you see it, don't you, Rainbow Dash?" He said as he hovered with the cyan pegasus. He stopped when he realized that Rarity was left behind, both fainted and on his convenient couch "Whoops! Almost forgot." He said as he glided back and stared at Rarity before he picked her up in his arms, using his tail to form a set of digits to snap, causing the couch to vanish. He then hovered back towards the cottage while carefully holding Rarity, making his way inside as he ducked his head under the doorway.
_____

Fluttershy wiped up the traces of black blood off of Crona's muzzle with a small tissue while it sat on one of the kitchen chairs. When she finished, she threw it away in her garbage can "There you are." She said with a smile.

Applejack approached Crona penitently "Ah'm really sorry fer what Ah did t' ya, Crona. Ah can't believe Ah let Ragnarok get t' me like that. Can ya forgive me?"

Crona, while still afraid of Applejack, was willing to forgive her "It's no problem." It said as it looked away and shuffled its forehooves "I can't control Ragnarok all the time."

Applejack arched an eyebrow "How'd ya come across him t' begin with? There hasn't been a single pony in th' history o' Equestria havin' some kind' o' crafty critter livin' in their body."

Rainbow Dash tilted her head as she stared at Crona "Especially inside somepony like you. No offense." She added quickly, not wanting to hurt Crona's feelings.

Twilight nodded "I'm equally curious about Ragnarok myself. I know he said some harsh things in the past but..." She eyed Crona intently "I want to learn the secrets behind his origin; How he came to live inside of Crona."

Pinkie grinned "I wanna know how he can pop out of Crona whenever he wants to. That's just super cool!"

Rainbow Dash winced "Pinkie Pie, I doubt popping out of somepony would come off as cool..." After her words, she felt a weird bulge on her chest "H-Huh?" She looked down in shock and worry "What is this!?"

On cue, what appeared to be Discord's head popped out of Rainbow Dash's chest, smiling at the wide-eyed pegasus "I beg to differ." He managed to teleport the moment the cyan pegasus yelped. She looked back and glared at the draconequus in the other room whistling innocently while standing next to Rarity, who was laying unconscious on Fluttershy's sofa.

Fluttershy cast a stern glance at Discord "That's enough for now." She turned to Crona "I'm actually curious myself, but I don't want to offend Ragnarok in asking that much from you."

Crona looked away with a sad glance "I'm not comfortable with bringing up my past so much. I don't like it at all."

Twilight frowned "Was it that bad? If so, we won't trouble you with all the details, but could you at least explain how Ragnarok is inside of you? This is unlike anything that has been witnessed by pony eyes!"

Crona gazed at Twilight with its sorrowful glance "B-But I don't feel like talking about the little one..."

Twilight blinked "You mean Spike? I never expected him to make you recall something so horrible. Speaking of..." She turned to glare at Discord "I wonder where he is right now..." She stated in a leveled tone.

Discord waved a dismissive paw "Oh, would you stop? He's back at the library safe and sound. Nothing to worry about at all!" He shifted his gaze to the door "Then again, I should probably make sure he isn't on his way back here..."

Twilight pointed a hoof at Discord "I'll only allow that notion for Crona's sake. Keep an eye out for Spike, and if you see him at the door, just let him know that he shouldn't be seen until Crona can properly adjust to him."

Discord gave a mock salute before he plucked his eyes out and set them at a nearby window as another pair grew back in his sockets. He noticed the disgusted look on Twilight's face "What? You said keep an eye out for him. Mind you, I'm doing twice the work." He quipped.

Fluttershy gently rubbed Crona's back "We'll let you talk about it once you feel confident enough." She said with a reassuring smile.

"Then you'll never know!"

Ragnarok appeared out of Corna's back once more "The only time you'll ever see Crona acting confident is when a fight's about to start! Other than that, you're all shit out of luck!"

Rainbow Dash winced "Great. You again..." She said in an unenthusiastic tone.

Applejack narrowed her eyes at Ragnarok "We ain't in th' mood t' hear yer dirty mouth. Why doncha crawl back inside where ya belong?"

Ragnarok gave Applejack the cold shoulder "I can do whatever I want! I can even tell how I'm inside of Crona."

Twilight's eyes lit up "You can?" She asked quickly.

"But..." Ragnarok added in a low tone, causing Twilight's spirit to waver.

"But?" She asked cautiously.

Ragnarok stared at Twilight until he looked away again "I want some candy before I feel like telling my story. I'm not running a charity or anything!"

Rainbow Dash craned her head back "You'll talk about yourself in exchange for candy? What are you, a child?"

Applejack snorted "An' what would a pile o' jelly like you want with some candy?"

Ragnarok turned to Applejack "To eat it, of course! I'm pretty hungry, you know." He clarified his remark by showing the ponies around him his large and grotesque mouth with some drool rolling down his teeth.

Everypony around Ragnarok tried not to feel nauseous, except for Pinkie and Discord, who stared at his mouth up close with intrigue "Wowee zowee! I wonder how many cupcakes you can eat!" Pinkie exclaimed as she gaped at the sight.

Discord stroked his goatee with an impressed smirk "You know, Ragnarok, I'm starting to take a liking to you with each trick you're showing us." He said in a friendly tone.

Ragnarok closed his mouth "If you're my friend, then feed me!" He drew himself back and crossed his arms "But that's with other food. If you want me to tell my story to you all, then I better expect some candy!"

Discord shrugged "Consider it done, friend." He snapped his talon and a platter containing a large pile of assorted candies appeared on the table "Would this suffice as tribute to your wondrous tale?"

Ragnarok widened his eyes at the display of candy "Gooopeee~!" He called out in glee as he lapped up the platter and chewed up his portion. As he gulped it down his eyes rolled for a quick moment before straightening again "This candy tastes funny..." He turned to Discord "It's like asparagus or something."

Discord shrugged with an innocent smile "My special blend. I have more if you want." He said nonchalantly.

Pinkie hopped up and down, staring at Ragnarok with eager eyes "So can you tell us your story? Please? Pretty please?"

Ragnarok waved a paw at Pinkie "Would you cram it already? I'm gonna start!" He ignored the intent gazes in everypony's eyes as he cleared his throat "I'll bet you thought I was born inside of my meister, but back then, I never was a part of Crona at first."

Twilight piped up "You weren't? Then you were your own being?"

Ragnarok leered at Twilight "AS I was saying..." He watched Twilight droop her ears with an apologetic gaze for her interruption "I was my own guy back then; my own weapon!"

Rainbow Dash "Your own weapon? Is that what you are?"

Ragnarok glared at Rainbow Dash "Would you all just let me tell the story?" He heaved a sigh as he continued "Anyways, yes, I am a weapon. I'm the Demon Sword Ragnarok!"

Fluttershy perked up and shivered profusely "D-D-D-Demon?" She squeaked in fright.

Ragnarok took in the first sign of fear from his audience with enjoyment as he extended his body and leaned in towards Fluttershy "That's right, a DEMON sword~!" He repeated in a mock grave tone.

Crona looked up at Ragnarok "Please stop scaring Fluttershy, Ragnarok. She gave us food."

Ragnarok scoffed as he retracted back towards Crona "Fine. But I am a demon sword; one of the best, that is!" He looked down at the frightful pony below him while his paws were perched on its head "Then there was the unfortunate time that I had a share a body with Crona here." He looked up with an unreadable look of nostalgia "I was basically a part of this twisted experiment where I was melted down and mixed with black blood before I was injected inside of Crona. It was so infuriating back then, being reduced to just sticking around in someone elses body!"

The rude growth looked at his audience, whom all of which appeared to be captivated in the regaling of his past "The one who did this to me was Lady Medusa, Crona's mom."

Twilight blinked "Medusa? Like the wicked gorgon of legend?"

Ragnarok turned to Twilight "Actually, that's her last name, but that's not important." He looked back down at Crona "The reason Crona here has black blood was because not only did she make it, she replaced all the old blood in Crona's body with it."

Applejack piped up "So that's why Crona seems so different! Who in the hay does this Medusa girl think she is puttin' th' poor boy through all o' that?" She asked in outrage, then noticed Crona cringing from her volume and chuckled in embarrassment "Sorry 'bout that."

Pinkie tilted her head with a quizzical glance "Wait...So you've been melted and put inside of Crona just like that?" She leaned in "It's that easy?"

Rainbow Dash turned to Pinkie with a pleading glance "Please don't get any ideas from this story, Pinkie..."

Pinkie turned to Rainbow Dash "Which one?" She asked absentmindedly, ignoring the dumbfounded look on the cyan pegasus' face.

Twilight held up a hoof "If you're done with your story, I have two questions." She looked up at Ragnarok's indifferent glance "How is it possible to melt somepony and still manage to make them sentient?"

Ragnarok stared down at Twilight "How the heck should I know? I may have been a part of all this, but I was just as confused on how it was possible myself! If anything, it's probably magic since Lady Medusa's a witch."

Fluttershy gasped, then turned to Crona "Is this true, Crona?"

Crona looked back at Fluttershy with a reluctant nod "Lady Medusa is a witch. She's very powerful and-...and-..." It looked away with mild fear in its eyes "She's scary..." It muttered quietly.

Discord poked his chin with a talon "Well, how about that? Looks like Twilight Sparkle's got some competition..."

Twilight glared up at Discord "You forget that I'm not a witch, Discord." She then held a thoughtful glance "But I'm honestly surprised she would use Crona as a test subject. What was Medusa trying to accomplish by putting her own child through so much tribulation?" She asked, nearly begging for an explanation.

Ragnarok looked away with an impish stare "I only told you the story of how I'm inside Crona and nothing else. I'm not obligated to tell you anything more than that." He said in a fickle tone.

Discord smirked "Would more candy change your mind?"

Ragnarok shifted his glance towards Discord "Maybe..." He looked away again "Maybe not..."

Twilight frowned at Ragnarok "I still have one more question. You said you're a weapon, and one of the best. Are there more weapons like you?"

Ragnarok turned to Twilight "Of course there are. I doubt there'd be any around here, though; In fact, I don't really care."

Fluttershy frowned to herself as she took in this information. She wanted to disbelieve that Crona could possibly be the same murderous pony she had laid eyes on in the forest, but Ragnarok's identity as a weapon was gradually crushing her hopes. She laid eyes on Crona, who remained silent with a sad, albeit blank gaze. Something told her that its mind was wondering throughout Ragnarok's story "Crona? Are you alright?"

Crona flinched as its eyes widened for a moment, then turned to Fluttershy "Y-Yes...Why?"

Fluttershy eyed Crona with concern "You didn't look so well earlier. Is there something bothering you?"

Crona wrapped its body with forehooves while looking away shyly "It's nothing, really. I don't wanna bother you all."

Fluttershy smiled sweetly "You haven't bothered any of us while you've been here. You can tell us anything and we'll do the best we can to help you out."

Crona blinked at Fluttershy "Really? You can?" It asked curiously.

Fluttershy nodded "Mhm. Can you tell us what's bothering you?"

Crona paused, then looked around at the several eyes that were surrounding it, quickly looking down afterwards to break eye contact. It fidgeted its hooves before it finally spoke "I...I want to go back to Death City." Crona said with a minimal amount of confidence, raising its head towards Fluttershy "That's all I really want." While it was happy to let out its true feelings, Crona was unsettled by the myriad looks of confusion plastered on everyone's faces.

End of Chapter 4

Chapter 5

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Chapter 5

Crona's true origin! Meeting the solar princess?

Crona looked around and began to grow uncomfortable with the perplexed looks the others gave it "Wh-What's wrong? Did I say something strange?" It asked nervously.

Fluttershy looked away awkwardly "Um...It's not so much what you said was strange, Crona, but...It's just-" She said, trying to come up with a way to lay Crona down gently "Well..."

"We ain't heard o' no Death City 'round these parts." Applejack finished bluntly, though was still confused by what was said.

Crona widened its eyes "What? There isn't?" It nearly shouted.

Twilight frowned "I know this might come as a shock to you, but such a place was never heard of throughout the reaches of Equestria. In fact, I'm honestly surprised you hail from such a place. Is it a new city?" She asked curiously.

Crona shook its head "No, it's an old city ran by Lord Death. I live there with my other friends."

Pinkie grinned "Other friends? That's great! If we somehow manage to find this 'Death City' place, maybe you can introduce them to us!"

Rainbow Dash blinked "Let me get this straight." She said to Crona "You come from a place called Death City." The frightful pony nodded "Ran by some guy named Lord Death?" She asked, wishing to clarify what was heard.

Crona nodded again "Uh huh, the Grim Reaper." Most of the room went pale.

Discord leaned in on Crona "Okay, pal, I know you've got two otherwordly tricks up your sleeve, but you must be yanking our chains if you're saying that you've actually lived next to the very aspect of death for the longest time." He said with a skeptical look in his mismatched eyes.

Crona shook its head after backing away from Discord "I-It wasn't long. I've just gotten used to living there, and then..." It looked down "And then..."

Fluttershy approached Crona "And then?" She asked gently.

Crona frowned as it recalled another horrible memory in silence.

"Nosy little girl...Say goodbye."
*stab*
"CRONA!"
"Great...Now we're both dying...And it's all because of you, idiot..."
"No, you'll be alright."
"Maka..."
"This is the end of the line...We're really finished now. You've been nothing but trouble since we've known you. You really suck...Yeah, you suck...but at least you're here with stupid Crona in the end..."
"Maka, please...don't cry. I-...I'm happy now for the first time...I finally am. Because you...are my friend...It's okay..."

Crona really thought it was happy, but ever since it woke up in the dark and dangerous forest in a different form, it was as if the happiness had never happened. Crona had already missed Maka; It regretted seeing the look of sadness on her face. The frightful pony had calmed down and looked at the others "I've...made a sacrifice. But I really miss Death City."

Pinkie frowned "Why? Who'd wanna be happy at a place where anypony could die the next moment?"

Crona shook its head "It's not like that at all. Death City's a nice place."

Applejack scratched her head "But we already told ya that there ain't no such place in Equestria. If y'all know about it so much, then who else would?"

Discord hummed before a mischievous smirk crept onto his face "I think I know what to do..."

Fluttershy turned to Discord "You do?"

Rainbow Dash leered at the draconequus "If it's another prank, then so help me-"

"No prank." Discord interrupted with a serious tone "If we're actually going to pitch in and help Crona while dealing with knowledge that is barely known to us all, it's only best we turn to the go-to pony for Crona's troubles." He said while pointing up a claw.

Twilight paused before looked up at Discord "You're talking about the princess? You think she'd help Crona?"

Discord shrugged "Only one way to find out. Let's go wake up Rarity and prepare for departure." He said as they trotted into the living room.

Twilight perked up "Departure? But shouldn't I just send her a letter to let us know we're going to meet her?"

Discord smiled "Twilight, sometimes you have to drop formalities for the sake of getting things done. Besides, we're doing this for Crona, aren't we?" He turned to Rarity laying on the sofa "Now how to wake up Rarity...hmmm..." A smirk appeared on his face as he snapped his talons to make a floating bucket of water appear over Rarity's head.

"Discord..." Fluttershy spoke in a warning tone with a light glare.

The draconequus frowned in defeat "Oh alright. We'll do it your way." He said as he made the bucket disappear, then brought a paw down on Rarity's shoulder and lightly shook her "Wakey wakey."

Rarity murmured as she stirred from her comatose state and lifted herself up as she shook her head "Huh? Where am I?"

Twilight smiled "You're inside Fluttershy's cottage. We wanted to get you up so we could head for Canterlot."

Rarity rubbed her eyes before blinking "For what occasion? Is it something important?"

Fluttershy nodded "We're going to see if Princess Celestia could possibly help Crona out with finding this place called..." She donned a light wince "Death City..."

Rarity arched an eyebrow "Clearly I must be hearing things now. I've already thought I've witnessed something grotesque coming out of Crona's back earlier." She noticed Crona and smiled lightly "Oh, hello, darling."

Crona smiled awkwardly "Hello, Rarity..."

Applejack and Rainbow Dash shared worried and awkward glances before looking back at Rarity "Errr, Rarity, ya weren't seein' things earlier..." Applejack pointed out hesitantly.

Rarity tilted her head at Applejack "Whatever do you mean?"

Rainbow Dash held up a hoof "She means that you've actually saw Ragnarok come out of Crona's back before blacking out."

Discord held up a paw "I gave you a nice couch to lay on when that happened. No need to thank me!" He said in feigned modesty.

Rarity frowned "And who, pray tell, is Ragnarok?"

The mentioned growth appeared behind Crona and looked at Rarity "What do you want?" He asked rudely.

Rarity stared wide-eyed at Ragnarok before giving off another tired moan and laid back on the sofa. Crona and Ragnarok glanced at each other before looking back at Rarity.

Discord sighed "Well, that's one less pony to take with us, I suppose. Why don't we get going so we can sort things out?"

Pinkie voiced herself with a frown "Wait a minute. What about Spike?"

Discord snapped his talons and a parchment of paper appeared in his grasp. He lightly placed it on Rarity's horn as it stabbed through it and covered her face; The note read:

'Gone to Canterlot.'
BRB
- Discord and friends

Discord dusted his paw and claw together "There we are, problem solved. Now, if everypony would kindly join hooves please?" Everypony did as requested, and Discord joined in as his tail formed a pair of digits that snapped and caused everypony beside Rarity to wink out of existence; Discord's pair of eyes on the window have also disappeared in a flash of light.

After a moment of silence, the front door to the cottage had opened to reveal Spike waddling in "Hello? Girls? Discord? Where is everypony?" He noticed Rarity laying on the sofa with a gasp and rushed to her side "Rarity!" After inspecting the note laying over her face, he pulled it off of her horn and read it "...BRB?" He craned his head with a quizzical glance "What does BRB mean?" He asked himself in confusion.
_____

Discord and the ponies reappeared in the middle of a vast courtyard that rested behind sturdy castle walls. Twilight looked around before turning to Discord with an arched eyebrow "Your aim's accurate as always. We're at the front of the castle. I'd expect us to be at the throne room."

Discord scoffed "I have my standards, you know. Not to mention, I want this to be a surprise for our new friend." He smiled down at a dazed Crona "Isn't that right, Crona?"

Fluttershy was instantly concerned when said pony was mentioned "Oh my goodness." She said to herself in worry as she carefully held Crona "Crona, are you okay?"

The frightful pony shook itself out of its daze before looking at Fluttershy "Yes, I'm fine..."

Discord smiled down at Crona "Good to hear, dear Crona. Now it's time for you to get acquainted with royalty."

Crona looked up at Discord "Royalty? Who lives in this castle?"

"This is a castle in Canterlot that is home to Princess Celestia and her sister Princess Luna. They both rule Equestria together." Twilight explained to Crona in a lecturing tone.

Crona turned to Twilight "Are they nice?"

Twilight smiled "Very nice. You'll know once you get to meet them."

Discord leaned down and whispered in Crona's ear "Be careful around Celestia. I heard she kills ponies with kindness..." He warned with feigned caution in his voice.

Crona went pale "Wh-What?"

Twilight quickly recovered with a reassuring smile "It was a figure of speech." She turned to Discord with narrowed eyes "Right, Discord?" She asked in a firm tone.

Discord smiled "Oh, that's what she wants you to think. But I suppose it's best to have Crona find out firsthoof. Let's step inside the castle and pay Celly a visit, shall we?" He said as he took point in the group entering through the castle's large doors.

Once inside, Crona took a look around and gave a light gasp in awe at the castle's interior architecture; The many features inside had given off a vibrant display in its eyes. Crona continued to look around until it finally turned to Fluttershy "Will Princess Celestia actually help me and Ragnarok out? I'd be very grateful if she did."

Fluttershy smiled reassuringly at Crona "I'm sure she'll do whatever it takes to make sure you'll be happy, Crona." She looked ahead as her smile grew thin, uncertainty starting to grow onto her face 'I'm confused...Crona couldn't really be serious about living in a place called Death City. I hope Princess Celestia could go out of her way to help out just this once...' She then thought about what was said between her and Discord, stealing a small glance at Crona.

Crona acknowledged Fluttershy and spoke again "What does Princess Celestia do as a ruler? Is she as powerful as Lord Death?"

Fluttershy blinked "Um...I can't say for certain, since I haven't actually met Lord Death, but..." She smiled "She is very powerful and very kind." Discord looked back at Crona with stealthful eyes and waggling eyebrows of mock warning after Fluttershy's words.

Crona ignored Discord's gesture and looked down "Well, hopefully she'll be as kind as you are if what you're saying is true."

Pinkie giggled "That's funny. Fluttershy's the Element of Kindness, silly. Nopony's kinder than her!"

Crona glanced at Pinkie "Element of Kindness?"

Fluttershy perked up "Oh, that's right. You don't exactly know about us yet." She placed a hoof on her chest "Me and my friends are known as the Elements of Harmony. I'm the Element of Kindness."

Pinkie grinned "And I'm the Element of Laughter!"

Crona shifted her glances between Fluttershy and Pinkie before turning to the others "And what about the rest of you?" It asked curiously.

Rainbow Dash glided over Crona with a proud smirk "I'm the Element of Loyalty! There are times when you gotta stick with your friends to the end, after all."

Applejack tipped her hat "Ah'm the Element o' Honesty. Best policy if Ah do say so m'self." She said in a friendly tone.

Twilight looked back at Crona with a smile "I'm the Element of Magic, and Rarity's the Element of Generosity. We've been protecting Equestria for quite some time now."

Pinkie pointed up at Discord "They even had to use it on Discord one time." He said to Crona nonchalantly.

Discord frowned deeply at Pinkie "Sure, bring that up, why don't you? I'd say I'm making very good progress right now!"

Fluttershy smiled at Discord "Of course you are. And we're very grateful for that."

Discord donned a cheerful smile "As always, Fluttershy, your kindness knows no bounds. It makes me feel all warm and tingly inside..." On cue, a collective of goosebumps were seen on Discord's chest as he looked down "Oh, wait a minute." He said as he stopped in his tracks and opened his chest like a door, pulling out what appeared to be a chicken clucking and flailing wildly while it was in the draconequus' paw "So THAT'S where you were. Who'da thunk it?" He said with a raised eyebrow.

Crona craned its head back "He had a chicken inside of him this whole time?" Its eyes widened slightly "How did he do that with his chest? Is he a robot?"

Fluttershy widened her eyes "Henrietta Hen? How did you get inside of Discord?" She asked in surprise.

Discord smiled at the disoriented fowl in his clutches "She must've crawled into my mouth while I was asleep after I had a midnight snack consisting of corn and toothpaste. Guess she couldn't resist." He chuckled in amusement before he snapped his talon, causing the hen to disappear "At least now she'll know not to be as curious as a monkey." He said as he pointed towards the throne room doors "Onward!" Discord said as he marched like a trained soldier, the others following him.

When they reached the doors, two identical guards in golden armor stood and regarded the group's leader with cold and calculating glances. Discord merely held out a paw with a laidback smile "No need to flatter yourselves, gentlecolts. We've got an appointment with Celestia."

Twilight smiled politely, albeit regretfully towards the two guards "We're sorry to come here on such short notice, but we have a pony in need." She looked back at Crona with a carefree gaze "Isn't that right, Crona?" The others turned to the pony in question waiting for an answer.

Crona flinched at being in the spotlight, but managed to nod to the guards "Uh-huh..." It muttered. The guards traded glances before nodding to Twilight and giving the group room to enter the throne room.

Rainbow Dash looked at Crona with a frown "Here's hoping she'll last against the princess."

Applejack smiled "Ah think Crona's in good hooves. Let's get a move on."

Discord opened the doors while he was found wearing a stetson of his own on his head, holding a toothpick in his mouth as he tried to look intimidating before tossing off the hat to the side and eating the toothpick "Ding dong! Friendship calling!" He piped up jovially.

Crona got a look at the vast throne room ahead; There were stained glass windows of different portraits, and at the end of the room sat a large alabaster pony with both a set of wings and a horn on her head, a tiara resting behind it; her body was adorned with a golden breastplate with a gem encrusted in the middle. Crona was nearly captivated by her mane and tail; how they were multicolored and flowing in a nonexistent breeze like clouds 'Wow...She's pretty...'

The pony seemed to appear gentle at first, but her expression shifted to that of deadpan as she glanced back at Discord "You really need to work on your entrances, Discord."

Discord crossed his arms and looked away with a mockingly indignant look on his face "I'm not here to impress you..." He muttered.

Twilight and her friends all stepped into the throne room and bowed to the one on the throne; Crona looked at the others before it tried to bow as well, although it was haphazardous at first. Twilight rose to smile, then trot towards the regal pony to embrace her "Nice to see you, Princess Celestia. We've actually come here for something we hope you could handle."

Princess Celestia returned the embrace and looked down at Twilight "Is it something involving your friendship reports?"

Twilight shook her head "Not at all." She directed a hoof towards Crona, who was still in a bowing position "It actually involves that pony over there. We were wondering if there could be a way for you to be of assistance."

Celestia examined Crona and blinked at its features, namely its cutie mark "I see..." She trotted over towards Crona with Twilight following her.

Discord watched them approach and leaned down to whisper at Crona "Remember...watch out..."

Celestia stopped in front of Crona and looked down at it with a warm smile "You don't need to remain bowing to me. Feel free to rise." She said kindly as she watched Crona look up at her while rising to its feet "And what is your name, my little pony?"

Crona stared up at Celestia and rubbed its left foreleg with a hoof "It's Crona...I was hoping you could help me return to a place called Death City."

Celestia went silent, and Discord shifted his eyes between her and Crona "Awkward~..."

Crona kept its gaze locked on Celestia "Can you do that for me? Please?"

Celestia stared down at Crona with mild befuddlement "I-...I don't exactly understand your request Crona. Could you perhaps elaborate on what it is you desire?"

Crona felt troubled "But that's all I want. I just want to go back to Death City if it's possible. Can you help me out?"

Celestia stared with a frown before taking a deep breath "You're unlike anypony I've been approached by to ask me such a thing. Could there be an explanation for this request?"

"Allow me." Everypony turned to Discord as he crossed his arms "No doubt this situation has reached an all-time high, so I suppose an explanation is in order." He pointed his paw at Crona "You see, we've found this one here in the Everfree Forest as of this morning." He smirked "And prior to that, a shooting star had somehow soared across the sky since last night."

Twilight perked up "A shooting star?"

Discord shook his head "Now I see where Ragnarok's coming from..." He muttered before he continued without facing Twilight "Yes, a shooting star." He turned to Fluttershy "According to Fluttershy, of course. Anything to add?"

Fluttershy looked away "Umm...Well, I thought about how there were some ponies in Equestria that go through so much trouble, that I wished that I could try and help at least one." She looked down at the carpet, not facing the others "I noticed a shooting star in the sky, and I didn't hesitate to make a wish. But when I did..." She looked up "The star fell from the sky...and into the Everfree forest..."

Twilight pieced together the explanation "So what you're saying is..." She turned to Crona with realization "Crona is the star; your wish?"

Fluttershy hesitated, feeling lost on what to say. She thought about what would be the best response to Twilight's question, but her mind had drifted back what was seen inside of the forest last night; The maddening gaze; the intimidating sword; the floating wisps "W-Well...I-"

"In layman's terms, it's a plausible theory, but we haven't really come to that conclusion yet." Discord said, twisting the truth and subtly defending Fluttershy.

Twilight rubbed her chin "Well, I'd be willing to consider it just this once." She looked away in thought "Then again, I saw a shooting star with my telescope two nights earlier and nopony came out of that, what with it being distant and all..."

"But I wasn't a pony before I came here..."

Everypony quickly directed their attention towards the one that spoke while it looked down "Before I ended up in the Everfree Forest, I wasn't even a pony to begin with."

Fluttershy turned to Crona with widened eyes "What? But how? How could you not have been one before, Crona?"

Crona glanced at Fluttershy despondently "I-...I had trouble trying to deal with this form the moment I was in the forest. I didn't even know where I was or how I came here." It sat down and stared at its forehooves "Especially like this...It doesn't even make any sense."

Discord smirked and went to speak, only to be stopped by Twilight and Celestia raising their hooves and speaking simultaneously "Not now." Discord slumped his arms and turned away.

Rainbow Dash raised an eyebrow at Crona "Well, then what WERE you before you came to Equestria? If you're even from Equestria, that is."

Crona looked up at Rainbow Dash "I was a human." It held up a hoof "I looked completely different. I had hands instead of hooves, and I-" Crona looked down and blushed in embarrassment "I wore clothes..." It murmured sheepishly "I didn't know how to deal with being naked..."

Celestia looked into Crona's eyes, frowning in concern 'That poor pony must've been through so much...' She smiled compassionately "Crona, would you feel better if I said that I'll find a way to sort this issue out?"

Crona instantly looked up at Celestia with hopeful eyes "Y-You would? Really?"

Celestia nodded "While this may seem like a situation of otherwordly proportions, it wouldn't be right to make it seem like you've come all this way for nothing. Let it be known that I'll do my best to help you, but I'll need some time."

Crona stared at Celestia before embracing her in a hug, burying its face into her chest. She was taken by surprise at first, but smiled warmly as she gently returned the embrace "Don't worry, Crona. I won't go back on my word." She looked down at Crona "In the meantime, can you spend time with Fluttershy and her friends while I help you?" The frightful pony was frozen in its embrace until it nodded its head and muffled a positive answer "Good. I assure you that you won't be disappointed in the long run."

Fluttershy gave a curt bow to Celestia "Thank you very much for your help, princess." She smiled up at the solar princess "I'm sure this will mean a lot to Crona."

"It's the least I can do for Crona." She said as she lightly ended the embrace with Crona "I'll let you know when I've reached a solution."

Crona frowned "It won't take too long, will it?"

Celestia gently stroked a hoof on Crona's mane "It won't, but you'll have to be patient." She turned to the others "Can I trust you all to care for Crona for the time being?"

Twilight nodded "Of course, princess. You can count on us!"

Rainbow snapped a salute with determined eyes "We'll make sure she'll enjoy herself with us."

Applejack looked up at Rainbow Dash "Ah think ya mean himself?"

Pinkie grinned "Why not-"

"No way!" Rainbow Dash and Applejack said in unison to Pinkie.

Crona trotted back to Fluttershy, who held a determined gaze of her own "We'll do it." She turned to Crona with a smile 'After all, Crona is the pony that I've wished for...'

Discord smirked "I'll do it, but only because I feel like it. I don't exactly have to take orders from you."

Celestia gave a light glare at Discord before she chuckled "Then it's settled. I'll let you all go about your business while I take care of Crona's problem. It was nice to see you all again."

Twilight nodded "The pleasure is ours. We hope to hear from you soon."

Pinkie grinned and waved "We'll tell you how much fun we've had with Crona once you're finished!"

Discord clapped his paw and claw together "Okay, everypony, we're ready to leave! Join hooves, please." When everypony but Celestia huddled together, Discord snapped his talons and the group was gone in a flash of light, leaving Celestia by herself.

Celestia stood idly by as her mane and tail continued to move by themselves, then closed her eyes as she frowned "This could be a problem..."

"Oh, but of course. I could tell you were about to crack the moment you heard Crona's request."

Celestia opened her eyes and shifted them to look back at one of the throne room's curtains "You and I both know that what Crona wants from me won't be easy. No...It could no doubt be impossible."

"And yet you went with the generic 'I'll do my best' to lift the poor child's spirits? You could've at least been a little honest about your thoughts."

Celestia looked down in reluctant sadness "I couldn't risk breaking Crona's heart in front of everypony, even myself; It would've been devastating for us all."

"True enough, though once little Crona finds out about your little fib, you're going to be looking at some serious character development. But at least you won't have to beg for forgiveness around that time."

Celestia sighed before she turned to face the curtain she was looking at with a glare "And just who are you to judge me about honesty? If I'm not mistaken, you've been twisting the truth yourself..." She narrowed her eyes "Discord..."

The curtain shuffled, and from behind it hovered the draconequus in plain sight with his arms crossed, a neutral frown on his face "What if I am? You think I wasn't surprised myself when Crona mentioned the words 'Death City'? This is really tying me in a knot!" He said as he literally twisted his body into a pretzel knot "That pony isn't just timid, we're talking about somepony who ISN'T a pony, from a different world!" There was a flash of light around him until it receded to show that Discord's body was back to normal "And considering the location, I'm already intrigued with our new guest."

Celestia turned to the throne room's doors "Yes. Crona does have an interesting background, and yet..." She looked sympathetic "I could plainly see the pain behind that poor pony's eyes. Crona must have been through a lot of trouble in the past."

Discord nonchalantly walked up to Celestia "Part of it has already been explained to Fluttershy and friends; the poor thing's led a hard knock life, being a guinea pig and whatnot. But who's to say that we can't turn it around?" He smirked at Celestia "After all, Crona's going to spend time with your most dependable subjects yet."

Celestia managed a smile "That's true. I'm certain that they can do their best to make Crona happy." She then held a calculating glance "But I should make some private consultations before I can go further with helping them out."

Discord raised an eyebrow "What, you think that would be best? I mean sure, we've already got enough on our plate as it is, but what can some measly advice do for our cause?" He laid comfortably in the air "By the way, where's little Lu-Lu? I'd figure she'd be with you in here when we swung on in."

Celestia turned to Discord with a frown "She's at Donut Joe's, indulging in a small treat before returning to her duties."

Discord chuckled "I suppose you've made a mistake by introducing her to baked goods." He brought a lion paw to his face, which had a wristwatch on it "I should be returning to my other half before everypony gets suspicious."

Celestia stared at Discord "Please promise me that you'll watch over Crona."

Discord rolled his eyes "You heard me before, didn't you? I'm all over it. Meanwhile, you do your thing and speak with that old windbag. Tell him I said hello." He said as he snapped his talons and disappeared in a flash of light.

Celestia sighed to herself and trotted towards her throne when Discord was gone, thinking to herself 'Could something possibly be done about Crona? Only one way to find out...' Instead of sitting on her throne, she decided to use her horn to teleport into her bedchamber, looking around to see nothing amiss before she trotted over to a large mirror beside her bed, gazing upon her reflection; The mirror gave a slight gleam when it was hit by the sunlight from the bedroom window. She looked away towards the window, looking out into the sky 'I don't understand...What was the intention? Why?'

End of Chapter 5

Chapter 6

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Chapter 6

Welcome to Ponyville! Fitting in with the crowd?

Discord and the others had teleported back to the yard just otuside of Fluttershy's cottage, and the draconequus stretched his arms "Well, that was a pleasant ride, but now I'm bored." He said as he looked at the others "What say we get down to business and make Crona feel welcome here?"

Fluttershy smiled "That would be a great idea." She turned to Crona "Would you like to go see Ponyville with us, Crona?"

Crona looked away reluctantly "I don't know...I'm already wondering how Princess Celestia will sort things out."

Discord felt inwardly troubled at the frightful pony's words and glided towards it, hovering over Crona while his body was curved up "Hey now, there's no need to be hasty. Besides, she said it would be a lengthy process, didn't she?"

Crona hung its head down "Oh yeah..." It muttered despondently.

Discord frowned 'Poor kid...Here's hoping Celestia knows what she's doing.' His frown was quickly replaced with a chipper smile "Now now now, there's no need for that mopey behavior when there's tons of fun to be had."

Crona looked up at Discord "Fun? But what's there to do?"

Discord poked a claw at Crona's forehead "Well, for starters, you can spend copious amounts of time with your new friends. You can explore their interest and compare them with your own, too." He lifted Crona up with his paw and claw as his smile widened "You'll end up repeating the process with the rest of Ponyville, and before you know it..."

He tossed Crona in the air, who screamed and flailed before it landed down in Discord's grasp, being held to where its back was facing the draconequus while it gazed at a distant town "You'll end up loving Ponyville in no time!" Discord concluded brightly until he stared at Crona's back blankly "...Provided they get used to Ragnarok as well..." He added quickly.

Rainbow Dash looked up at Crona "You know, I'm actually surprised that gooey jerk didn't show his face around Princess Celestia. Did he not feel like talking to her or something?"

Twilight remembered the growth inside of Crona and heaved a sigh of relief "The way I see it, it was one less problem to deal with when we were talking with the princess."

Applejack scoffed "Ah'd probably buck that thing back inside o' Crona's body th' moment he showed his face." She flinched before looking away awkwardly "Erm, that is, IF Ah can get t' him..."

Pinkie smiled "Maybe he just needs to hang around Fluttershy more often. Then he'd be nice like Discord!"

Discord shrugged while holding Crona "Here's to dreaming."

"I can hear you all, you know!"

Ragnarok emerged out of Crona's back, regarding the group with a cross expression on his strange face "What if I don't want to change to your liking? You ever think about that for once, or do you not think at all?"

Applejack gritted her teeth "Ya dirty little..." She muttered venomously.

Discord smirked playfully at Ragnarok "There's no need for hate, my friend. Join the herd; You won't regret the decision." He said in a mock persuasive tone.

Ragnarok pointed at Discord "Shut it! I don't care if you make plenty of candy, I'm not gonna bend to your stupid rules!" He snapped harshly.

Crona looked back at Ragnarok "But they didn't lay down any rules yet." It shifted his glance to Discord "Could you put me down, please?"

Discord nodded "Of course, Crona. After all, you DID say the magic word." He said as he gently set Crona on the ground "As for my lecture, take it to heart and go out for a day in the town with us. Time flies when you're having fun, you know." He stated encouragingly.

Crona and Ragnarok looked up at Discord in silence before facing the mares, namely Fluttershy, who gave a reassuring smile. After thinking over what Discord had said, it sounded like a good idea, although Crona was still nervous about meeting more people it wasn't familiar with. With a thin smile, the frightful pony gave a curt nod to Fluttershy.

Ragnarok looked down at Crona "You're actually gonna go through with this? I hope you know what you're getting yourself into."

Crona looked up at Ragnarok "Everyone's already helping us out. We might get back to Death City sooner than expected." It looked over at the others and paused "...But they're still very nice to me."

Ragnarok huffed "I don't care how they act, just try not to make any mistakes, alright?" He requested rudely as he sunk back inside of Crona.

Applejack stomped a hoof "Land Sakes! How'd ya put up with somepony like him fer so long?" She asked Crona in a mixture of irritation towards Ragnarok and amazement over the frightful pony's patience.

Crona frowned "Well, it wasn't easy. Ragnarok was my partner from the beginning." It trotted towards Fluttershy, standing next to her while looking over at the distant town "So this is going to be...fun?" Crona asked shyly.

Rainbow Dash frowned "Not if you're gonna hide your face the whole time." She smiled "Stick with us and we'll make sure you have a good time here without having second thoughts."

Twilight hummed "I should probably let Spike know about-" She gasped in realization "Oh no, I forgot about Spike!" She looked over at the cottage when she heard the front door opening.

Spike was seen exiting with Rarity "Hey, everypony. Why'd you all leave for Canterlot without us? We were-" Spike instantly winked out of existence before he could begin his rant, startling Rarity in the process.

Discord wiped the sweat from his brow "Dodged a bullet there..." He looked down at an angry Twilight and shrugged it off "He's back at the library again. Gimme a break, will ya?"

Rarity trotted down the steps towards her friends "I can't believe you would just leave me and poor Spike behind like that." She said in a hurt tone "Have you at least met your goal when you visited the princess?"

Pinkie trotted up next to Rarity "Yeppers! We're gonna be doing stuff together until Celestia finds a way to send Crona back to Death City." She faced Rarity with a chipper smile "You're not hearing things, by the way. Just to let you know." She chirped kindly.

Fluttershy nodded "It's true." She smiled "We were just about to go into Ponyville to give Crona a tour. Would you like to come with us?"

Rarity gasped before her eyes glimmered "Would I? I wouldn't dream of passing up an opportunity in making another lady feel welcome here." She trotted up to Crona and held out a hoof "Shall we, Crona? I cannot wait to show you around my shop and see what clothes would be suitable for you to wear."

Crona gave a small and bashful smile as it met Rarity's outstretched hoof with one of its own "I'd like that. I don't think I like being naked all the time."

Discord held up a paw "I'll catch up with you gals later. I think it's best that I fill Spike in on the details before anything bad happens." He said as he snapped his talons and winked out of existence in a flash.

Twilight hummed "I guess that leaves us for now." She said as she faced her friends with an encouraging smile "Let's get started!" The others voiced themselves in agreement, save for Crona, who felt nervous about being around more ponies.
_____

Ponyville, just like yesterday, was full of bustling activity, namely around the market square. Right now, the element bearers traveled with their newest friend around town to show Crona the sights and possibly introduce other ponies to it. This would seem easy if Crona hadn't been hiding between Applejack and Fluttershy while the group traveled together.

Pinkie darted her head around with an invigorated grin, trying to think of a place to start "Why don't we head to Sugarcube Corner? Maybe we can give Crony a treat or two!"

Crona peered its head from behind Fluttershy "Cro...ny?" It blinked "B-But my name's Crona."

Applejack smiled and lightly nudged Crona, grabbing its attention "Pinkie's infamous fer givin' her friends nicknames, sugarcube. It'll take some gettin' used to." She then thought over Pinkie's idea until she had one of her own "We all could meet over by my place an' enjoy some lunch." She prodded Crona's chest "Poor feller needs some food in 'is system."

Rainbow Dash examined Crona from above "Now that you mention it, Crona does seem a bit scrawny at first glance; Not that it's a bad thing, though."

Rarity huffed at Rainbow Dash and Applejack "I'm certain she has her reasons. After all, I'm following a diet of my own." She smiled pridefully as she caressed her mane.

Crona stopped and frowned "Actually, I haven't eaten much other than what Fluttershy made for me..." It noticed the other mares stopping as well to stare and Crona waved its forelegs frantically in a placating motion "Not that it's bad or anything. I don't want to be any trouble." It added quickly.

Applejack shook her head in amusement "Ya won't be imposin' at all. 'Sides, Ah believe Ah should make it up t' ya fer accidentally hurtin' ya earilier." She held out her hoof to Crona "Whaddaya say, Crona? Feel like enjoyin' some Apple Family hospitality?" She asked, as if expecting a positive answer.

Crona stared at Applejack, then her hoof, then smiled as it brought a hoof of its own to meet her's "Okay..."

Fluttershy watched Crona with a warm smile 'Crona's adjusting nicely around my friends so far. Maybe we'll succeed in having Ponyville get to know Crona better in no time.' She voiced herself "Then we'll have lunch at Sweet Apple Acres before we show you around the rest of Ponyville."

Pinkie giggled "This is a great idea. Maybe some of Applejack's fizzy cider will boost Crona's spirits!"

Crona tilted its head at Pinkie "Fizzy cider?"

Rainbow Dash groaned impatiently as she hovered above her friends "I know we can talk and stuff, but can we do it at Sweet Apple Acres? We're burning daylight over here!"

Twilight, though a little miffed from Rainbow Dash's impatience, nodded in agreement "She is right, girls. Let's have a quick meal before our tour." The group resumed their pace, though Crona still took comfort in traveling in between Applejack and Fluttershy.

Fluttershy glanced at Crona and observed how wistful the frightful pony appeared. She wondered if it was still homesick, but decided not to press on it in fear of possibly making Crona sad. She looked around to see that some of the passing ponies near her and her friends were glancing curiously at Crona's shape 'Oh my. I think we might be drawing attention at the wrong time...' Fluttershy thought fearfully.

While there had been several glances with each passing, the group was lucky to reach what appeared to be a large farm with several acres of land without a hitch. Crona snapped out of its wistfulness to gaze upon the several trees and the fruits they beared "Wow...So many apples..." It stated in mild awe.

Applejack smiled proudly "That's Sweet Apple Acres fer ya." She proclaimed without hesitation "We have th' finest apples in Equestria, an' we work hard t' make sure they're good fer everypony that wants 'em." She winked at Crona "Wait until ya try some o' our apple pie; it'll probably change th' way ya think."

Crona blinked "Really? Well, I never actually had pie before..."

Rainbow Dash frowned "I'd be willing to believe that after hearing Ragnarok's story." She smiled shortly after, pointing down at Crona "You're in for a treat, though, I'll tell you that much."

Applejack took point and led the group towards a picnic table near her homestead, where she laid a hoof on the wood "Alright, y'all. Jus' make yerselves comfy while I go inside an' fix us up some food." She turned to Pinkie "Wanna tag along, Pinkie? Ah could really use an extra set o' hooves."

Pinkie grinned "Okie Dokie Loki!" She replied as she pronked beside Applejack and followed her into her house while the others sat themselves down at the picnic table; Fluttershy sat next to Crona while Twilight and Rainbow Dash sat at the opposite end.

Rarity sat herself down on the picnic table next to Crona - though she fussed with getting herself comfortable beforehand - and looked over at the pony beside her "Crona, from one lady to another, may I ask you something?" She earned Crona's attention as she continued "Forgive my curiousity, but I wish to know what this 'Death City' is like. If my friends are telling the truth, then you're really from such a place?"

Crona nodded "Yeah..." It shuffled its forehooves "It's not a bad place once you get used to living there."

Twilight leaned her head in slightly, curious about Crona's life herself "Did you manage to make any friends there?" She asked, wondering about the concept of Death City. To her, it sounded as if there were possibly nothing but ghosts that took residence in a large city; not that she would actually believe in spirits.

Crona shifted its glance to Twilight "Actually, yes. They just welcomed me as one of their own. I was scared at first, confused as to why they would even want me, but they were all nice to me." It looked down with a small nostalgic smile "It felt good after a while; I never thought I could deal with talking to anybody other than Ragnarok or Lady Medusa."

Fluttershy nodded "I agree. It's never good to be alone alll the time. I'm glad you were able to make some friends at least."

Rainbow Dash tilted her head at Crona "They sound pretty awesome from your point of view. Were they like you at all?"

Crona perked up and shook its head at Rainbow Dash "No, not at all. They were very different." It looked up with a calm glance towards the sky "My friends had their own goals and their own powers. Maka was the first one to make friends with me; She always loved to study and become a good meister."

Rainbow Dash blinked "Study? That sounds an awful lot like a certain egghead, don't you think?" She asked as she smirked playfully at Twilight.

Twilight flashed a bright smile "She seems like a very good friend if she chose to make you one of her's." She complimented, but her smile vanished with a look of curiousity "But what exactly is a meister?"

Crona shuffled its forehooves awkwardly "Well...I'm not all that good at explaining it, but it's basically someone who uses a weapon in combat. The meister and the weapon are supposed to work together whenever they fight an opponent. They resonate their souls together if they want to draw out their true power."

Fluttershy felt her heart stop as she heard Crona explain; A part of her wondered if she would have the misfortune of seeing Crona actually fight if it ever felt the need to. The thought of seeing somepony so gentle and timid being forced to take arms seemed saddening to her, but if Crona was the same pony she had seen last night...

Twilight squinted an eye towards Crona "And you and Ragnarok...?"

Crona stared at Twilight until it understood her question and sheepishly looked away "Y-Yeah...We work together...or try to, at least."

Rainbow Dash stared blankly at Crona and pointed a hoof "You can fight?" She earned a reluctant nod "How good are you? Rainbow Dash asked curiously.

Fluttershy, who gradually felt troubled at the thought of listening, raised a hoof "Umm...I don't think we should talk about fighting...I don't think Crona would like that." She turned to Crona with a curious glance "Would you?"

Crona glanced back at Fluttershy "Not really." It said with gratitude tinted beneath its feeble response "I don't think I could deal with it..."

Rainbow Dash was dumbstruck by Crona's reason "You can't deal with talking about a few fights? What's up with that?"

Rarity cast a stern glare at Rainbow Dash "Well, for one thing, it's uncouth to even regale the tales of partaking in battles that Crona obviously did not enjoy in her time!" She defended Crona, placing a hoof on her chest with a frown of displeasure "I, for one, am not exactly proud of our little 'Changelings in Canterlot' debacle, even though Shining Armor and Cadence have tipped the scales in their favor."

Rainbow Dash arched an unconvinced eyebrow at Rarity "Really now? Cuz even if we WERE outnumbered, you looked like you were enjoying yourself."

"That's enough, girls." Twilight cut in authoritively "We don't need to fight amongst ourselves when we're only having a friendly conversation." She said to Rarity and Rainbow Dash before turning to Crona "Why not talk more about your friends, Crona?" She asked gently.

Crona looked down pensively "Well, while Maka's a meister, Soul is her weapon. He sometimes gets hurt by Maka if he acts out." It looked up at the others "Then there's Black Star, who wants to surpass God...Whoever that is...He's very strong and confident."

Twilight smirked playfully at Rainbow Dash "Looks like somepony's got some competition."

Rainbow Dash flinched and pointed a hoof "H-Hey! He doesn't sound so tough! What kind of name like 'Black Star' is better than 'Rainbow Dash'?" She defended herself tersely.

Crona looked down again "His weapon reminds me of Fluttershy a lot. Her name was Tsubaki, and she was very kind to me and Ragnarok, even making food for us."

Fluttershy smiled warmly "She sounds like a great person." Her smile faded "But why is she a weapon? Did she choose to be one?"

Crona shook its head "She was born that way, and she was okay with it." It frowned "I kind of envy her sometimes...Being able to deal with things easier than me..." Some distant screams reached the ears of Crona and the other mares "What was that?" Crona asked as it looked around the farm.

Twilight jumped from her seat and looked towards Ponyville "It came from Ponyville. But what could it be?"

Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes "Whatever it is it can't be good. What say we skip lunch and see what's going on?"

"Awww, but we got everything ready~!"

The group turned to see Applejack and Pinkie balancing trays of food and drinks with the latter bearing an expression of disappointment "Why does something bad have to happen while we're enjoying ourselves?" Pinkie complained as she neared her friends and set her tray on the table.

Twilight held a determined glance "We shouldn't ignore this, everypony; Let's move into town and see what's going on!"

Applejack set her own trays down and nodded in agreement "Couldn't 've said it better myself!" She said as she began to gallop with everypony else following after. Crona was tailing the group while trying to catch up with its friends, a look of distress on its face.

Fluttershy fell back with the frightful pony to keep it company as they both managed to catch up. While galloping, however, she couldn't help but feel that she was bound to see if Crona was unlike the pony she had seen at the bush in her yard.

End of Chapter 6

Chapter 7

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Chapter 7

Skirmish in the Square! A frenzied enemy approaches?

Meanwhile, in Ponyville library, Discord pointed a claw as he was discussing the issue about Crona with Spike "In conclusion, you just need to keep your distance while we make sure Crona adapts to Ponyville."

Spike stared "How does that explain why I can't be around you guys?"

Discord shot an inquisitive glance back at the purple dragon "How could it not?"

Spike deadpanned "All you said was 'In conclusion', and nothing else."

Discord's gaze became quizzical, almost cross-eyed "I have? Well, in that case, let me reiterate with more clarity to my reasons." He gestured his paw and claw as if passing an item left and right "You, Spike, obviously bring about bad memories towards poor Crona just by being there, and we cannot afford to have somepony go into a panic attack while you stand idly by as if nothing were happening. Our newest friend needs time to adjust and forget about such haunting visions to the point where it were like they've never even happened. Therefore, you'll have to take up the idea of becoming a prepubescent hermit in this library until we actually feel the need to have you around for the sake of friendship." He conjured a set of shades and put them over his eyes while leaning his head towards Spike "Ya dig?" Discord asked in a mock urban accent.

Spike frowned "But I don't wanna be cooped up in here for a long time; I'll get bored easily! Plus, you may have forgotten my thing with Rarity." He said as he crossed his arms.

Discord held back a snicker as he composed himself "Well, stud, use this as an opportunity to make yourself more presentable and desirable around Rarity. I'm sure there could be plausible tomes of knowledge to impress a mare."

Spike looked up at Discord with faint interest "Really?"

Discord spread his arms with an encouraging smile "Of course. In fact, I have one right here for your viewing pleasure!" He proclaimed as he snapped his talons and made a book appear in his paw; It was an ebony tome titled 'How to impress your mare in one easy step'.

Spike eyed it with a wide grin on his face, but it faded when screams were heard outside "Did you hear that?"

Discord conjured a hearing horn and held it to one of his ears as he made out the sound himself "Sure did." He shrugged to Spike "Sorry, my boy, but duty calls. In the meantime..." Discord gently placed the book on top of Spike's head "Educate yourself. I'll be back in a jiff." He said as he teleported out of the library.

Spike paused with a bitter expression until he took the book off of his head and cracked it open. There was no content seen in the book other than one small sentence.

Step 1
Be yourself

It may have been short and to the point, but Spike was outraged at what the book had to offer "This doesn't help me at all! I've been myself around Rarity for the longest time now!" He snapped in complaint before heaving a sigh and waddling towards a couch as he began to mope "I get no respect around this place..."

From a perch on the other end of the room, Owlowiscious flew towards Spike and landed next to him, giving a reassuring hoot. Spike eyed the owl until he patted his head with a smile "Well, at least you're here for me."
_____

Crona and the element bearers galloped into town to see the many citizens running amock in a panic. They traversed through all of the unrest, trying to spot the disturbance that was being made in the town. Rainbow Dash flew above to get a better view, and her eyes widened when she spotted the source "Girls, you might wanna get a look at this!" She called down to her friends as she pointed ahead of their direction.

Fluttershy, curious about the disturbance herself, flew up next to Rainbow Dash and followed her outstretched hoof. When she spotted what was up ahead, she gave a low gasp at what was seen.

A few feet away from the fleeing townsfolk, a large manticore with ruffled fur was seen ravaging the ponies that were nearby without hesitation, its claws leaving massive wounds across their bodies. Screams of agony and terror filled the air that were only toned out by the manticore's feral roar. A maddening gaze in its dilated pupils scanned the area as what appeared to be black ichor trailed from the right side of its maw while he breathed deeply. The manticore had caught the element bearers and Crona in its sights and let out a threatening growl.

Rarity stared back at the manticore and the bleeding victims with a look of distress "A manticore in Ponyville? But how!?"

Twilight, tensed up by the beast's appearance, watched how it slowly advanced towards them "Your guess is as good as mine. Creatures of the Everfree forest don't even come out of their territory unless they're provoked. This occurrence makes no sense at all!"

At Twilight's last sentence, Discord teleported next to them with a relaxed smile "Now who has the gall to say-" He spotted the manticore and the wounded ponies left in its wake, staring blankly at the carnage "Oh...That's happening." He said as he pointed a claw at the manticore.

Fluttershy looked down at Discord "Discord! Please get everypony to safety!" She called down to him.

Discord nodded "Can do." He replied nonchalantly, as if the manticore wasn't around. He snapped his talons, causing the wounded ponies to wink out of existence, and looked ahead at the manticore with a grimace "Yeesh, I remembered manticores to be more groomed despite being wild animals." He looked up at Fluttershy gliding towards it and frowned in concern "Are you sure about trying to reason with it? Need I remind you of the ponies I rescued just now?"

Fluttershy looked back at Discord with a gaze of resolve "Go help everypony, Discord. I can do this..."

Discord stared, then closed his eyes as he took a deep breath "You better be careful, Fluttershy..." He muttered as he teleported away from the group, leaving them with the manticore.

Fluttershy descended towards the manticore's eye level and eyed it with a stern glance "Why did you do this?" She asked in a low tone towards the advancing manticore "Why would you leave the forest and harm so many innocent ponies? Don't you have any shame?"

Crona watched Fluttershy with a quivering heart "Fluttershy..." It murmured in fear of what could happen to her if she weren't careful. Her courage against the manticore was surprising in Crona's eyes, almost reminding her of Maka's own display.

Fluttershy's eyes narrowed "I don't know what your reason is for hurting everypony, but you've caused enough trouble, mister! You're going to go back inside of the Everfree Forest right now!" She said, her volume reaching levels unlike her usual inside voice.

Applejack felt herself shake as the manticore continued undeterred, turning to Fluttershy "Ah don't think that there manticore's listenin', Fluttershy!"

Fluttershy's gaze stayed the same until her eyes widened with a burning intensity that entered and coursed through the manticore's body the moment they locked eyes; She had used her reliable disciplinary tactic known as 'The Stare'. The beast was confused at first, but found the feeling inside of his body to grow annoying, roaring in protest as he brought up a massive paw and went to strike Fluttershy.

Rainbow Dash widened her eyes "Fluttershy!" She said as she sped towards her friend and quickly snatched her away, letting the manticore's paw slam into the ground. When they were at a safe distance, she carefully, but hastily lifted Fluttershy to where their eyes met "Are you crazy? That manticore nearly killed you back there!" She said in worry.

Fluttershy, whose expression shifted to shcok and sorrow, looked back at Rainbow Dash with trembling eyes "B-But I don't understand...How could he even resist against the Stare?"

Rainbow Dash looked back at the large beast growling at the two pegasi "I don't know, but you made him very angry!"

"Fluttershy! Rainbow Dash! Run!" Twilight called out to her friends. They complied without a word and flew away from the manticore, who unfurled his own wings and roared before pursuing them.

Pinkie watched them leave, until her body began to twitch uncontrollably "O-O-O-O-Oh bo-o-o-o-o-o-y~!"

Crona was unsettled by Pinkie's sudden display of movement "P-Pinkie Pie? Why are you doing that? Your body's moving all weird and wobbly. I don't know how to deal with that!"

Applejack watched in surprise "A Pinkie sense now? But what could it be? Ah'd figure that manticore was the biggest doozy we've had in a while."

Pinkie grunted as her body moved about "It isn't! I dunno what it is, but it's bound to happen soon!"

Rarity frowned "I hope this doozy is something that would rid Ponyville of this manticore."

Twilight turned to her friends "Whatever the prediction, we can't leave Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash by themselves. C'mon, everypony!" She said as she galloped away, the others following after her.
_____

Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash flew for their lives away from the rabid manticore that gave chase; Fluttershy whimpered to herself while her mind was wrapped around the question of why a manticore wouldn't even listen to her while Rainbow Dash kept a tight grip on her friend as she accelerated away "That stupid beast isn't gonna get us so easily. Hold tight, Fluttershy!"

Rainbow Dash proceeded to use evasive maneuvers in the air that consisted of some of the tricks she would practice on her own time. She expected results from her demonstration of tricks, but despite her deft movement, she noticed the manticore did not let up on his pursuit; He would roar in irritation for each trick he fell for, but he would eventually be back on their tail without much effort "What gives? He should've been winded by now! Nopony could just catch up to me like that!" Rainbow Dash shouted dumbfoundedly.

Fluttershy looked back at the manticore's unchanged expression of latent insanity in his eyes while he stayed hot on their trail 'I'm just as confused as you are, Rainbow Dash. Whatever drove him to cause trouble in Ponyville must have given him some kind of boost in strength...' She watched how more of the black liquid seen on his lips trailed off 'Wait...is that...?' Fluttershy yelped when she felt herself yanked as Rainbow Dash made a sharp turn to the right before she could deduce the blackness seen on the manticore.

Rainbow Dash groaned when she looked back "Darn it. Looks like we're gonna have to knock some sense into him."

Fluttershy turned to Rainbow Dash "What!? But we can't!" She cried.

Rainbow Dash narrowed her eyes as she looked down for a place to land "I know that manticore's an animal, Fluttershy, but he's acting like a monster! Besides, I don't see him leaving us alone as long as we keep this up!" She said as she swooped down towards town square near the fountain, where she took a defensive stance while she watched the manticore descend nearby "It's time to get tough!" Rainbow Dash flared her wings and launched herself at full speed towards her target, hitting him square in the chest with a headbutt.

She expected a painful reaction, But Rainbow Dash heard nothing but another low growl 'Huh?' She looked up to see that the manticore wasn't even fazed by her blow, and he roared as he swatted Rainbow Dash away with a massive paw, sending her through a wall of a nearby building.

Fluttershy gasped "Rainbow Dash!" She went to gallop to her aid, but her path was blocked by the manticore, who snarled at her threateningly. With eyes wide as dinner plates, Fluttershy backed away from the advancing beast, fearing for her's and Rainbow Dash's lives.

While Fluttershy was backing up, Twilight and the others managed to reach town square to see the manticore advancing on her. Crona widened its eyes at the terrifying sight "Fluttershy!"

Applejack called out to the timid pegasus in worry "Shake a leg, girl! Yer gonna be attacked!"

Fluttershy whimpered while her eyes were on the manticore "I-I can't..." she whimpered as her legs began to tremble profusely, fear beginning to overtake her. Never had she been met with a predicament that involved not only her life, but several others. Right now, the timid pegasus was staring death in the face that took the form of a savage beast that she was unable to communicate with. As she watched the manticore raise his paw up, Fluttershy's pupils trembled while she broke into a cold sweat, and she instantly clenched her eyes shut at the realization that running away was futile.

Her friends couldn't bear the sight, namely Crona, who instinctively galloped towards her with a distressed look, ignoring the mares behind it before shutting its eyes as it reached its caretaker "Fluttershy!"

After Crona's call, the manticore had brought down his paw, but instead of striking a pegasus and an earth pony, it had smacked against a large, red, and dome-like magic shield that had instantaneously formed the moment Crona reached Fluttershy; on the former's back was a wingspan containing large and black wings in a covering position over the two ponies. The manticore roared in surprise before he was reeled back by the force it exerted from his attack.

Rainbow Dash crawled out of the hole she had made and shook her head before she noticed the spectacle herself, her jaw nearly dropping "What the...!?"

Pinkie gasped in surprise while she watched the shield protect Crona and Fluttershy "No way! Crona's a pegasus that can use magic? That's amazing!"

Twilight would have been at a loss for words had it not been for Pinkie's deduction "Pinkie Pie...I don't think those wings actually belong to Crona..." She said as she watched the scene carefully, although was nearly captivated by the demonstration of Crona's skill.

Pinkie blinked at Twilight "They don't? Then who would they-" She gasped again, this time in realization before she bursted into a cheer "Ragnarok is actually helping! He really is a nice guy!"

Rarity was in awe at the fact that Ragnarok was displaying immense power by himself, or so she thought "Amazing...And to think Ragnarok was just inside Crona for show!"

Applejack gave a light scoff before she held a thin smile and remained silent 'Guess he ain't all bad iffin' he's willin' t' risk his life with Crona...'

Fluttershy heard her friends speak, and she opened her eyes to view the sudden bulwark she was inside of, followed by the pony who held her close "Crona?" She asked in a whisper.

Crona looked down at Fluttershy in worry before it had smiled in relief "I'm glad you're okay, Fluttershy...Don't worry; We'll protect you." It said as the shield had lifted, the wings receding into Crona's body while it gently lifted Fluttershy up.

The manticore had recovered from the backlash of his earlier strike and roared in agitation as it leapt to strike Crona and Fluttershy again, but was met with another obstacle in the form of an angry Ragnarok easily matching his force with the paw over his own "Personally, I don't give a rat's ass about the new friends Crona has made, but Fluttershy managed to make us food; and we could've had some of Applejack's if you didn't show up. Now I'm gonna beat you down before I can enjoy a good meal!" He said as he added more force to his defense and sent the manticore reeling once more.

Fluttershy had never been so dumbfounded over such an otherwordly feat; She never expected so much physical strength from Ragnarok. What drew her away from it was Crona's unreadable expression that slowly contorted into a light glare towards the frenzied beast. The pony who seemed frightful to her at first had now appeared to have gained some courage in the face of adversity in her eyes.

Crona remained frozen until it spoke in a leveled tone "Ragnarok..." After he was mentioned, Ragnarok melded down into a black ooze and slithered down into Crona's open mouth, shifting into a shape of a long and thin blade as the once-frightful pony bit down on the hilt. While Ragnarok was held in his new form, Crona's eyes began to change; rather than their regular purple, its pupils dilated slightly as their color became lighter and pale.

Fluttershy would be happy to know that Crona was willing to protect her, but a new fear had wormed inside of her; the fear of the new pony that stood before her with the same nightmarish features; the sword in its mouth; the maddening gaze; the defensive stance. She had inched herself away while Crona was focused on its recovering opponent 'I can't believe it...Crona really is the same pony I've seen in the Everfree Forest last night...' Fluttershy thought while she stared in disbelief.

The manticore recovered again, his full attention directed on the armed pony in front of him. He roared indignantly before readying his scorpion tail and launching it at Crona, who managed to sidestep and block the poisonous tip that clashed with the ebony blade. Crona quickly dropped its guard and charged towards the manticore to slash at his chest, eliciting a growl before it dodged a paw that dropped towards the ground, crushing the spot it touched.

Fluttershy's mind was in flux at the sight of Crona fighting against the ferocious beast; So much had happened in the course of two days, and it all led up to a horrific sight taking place in her home. While he was still feral, Fluttershy's heart went out to the manticore as she watched him bleed out black blood '...What!?'

Upon closer inspection, Fluttershy noticed that the wound Crona made on the manticore was indeed leaking black blood. From noticing the familiar substance that dripped from his mouth, the wound had drawn her to a palpable conclusion: The manticore had somehow gotten a hold of Crona's black blood, and it was quite possibly the source of its current ferocity.

Crona was busy blocking clawed swipes that had come in left and right with the help of Ragnarok, all while showing no reaction towards each attack other than its maddening gaze. When it spotted an opening, the sword-wielding pony lunged Ragnarok forward to stab at the manticore's chest, only to be swatted away after the hit had connected.

Fluttershy had snapped out of her thought after seeing Crona roll across the ground "Oh my goodness!" She went to fly towards Crona until she noticed the swift recovery it made.

Crona lifted itself up, showing no expression of pain as it kept Ragnarok in its mouth. Its eyes narrowed at the manticore before it galloped back towards him with Ragnarok at the ready; Paw met sword as they clashed after closing the distance in minimal time.

From the sidelines, Rainbow Dash was easily amazed by Crona's demonstration of swordplay and endurance "Wow...She may look scrawny, but Crona can take a beating and come back stronger!" She said to herself before she grimaced "...I'm glad she's on our side..." Rainbow Dash muttered with faint fear. She then realized two things: She remained motionless in the hole she made, and Fluttershy was close to the two combatants.

Not wanting to waste another moment, Rainbow Dash recovered from her spot and quickly flew towards Fluttershy, swooping her off from the ground and taking her by surprise "Don't worry, I gotcha."

Fluttershy whimpered "But what about Crona?"

Rainbow Dash frowned and looked over at the mentioned pony holding its own without any problems "Personally, I think she's got this one." She reassured Fluttershy as she let her friend fly, the two pegasi gliding back to their friends "You girls seeing this?" She asked curiously.

Applejack nodded "Darn tootin'. Ah'm surprised Crona's even standin' up t' manticore as if it were nothin'." She said as she noticed the wounds on the manticore "What in the hay..." Applejack muttered "Since when do manticores bleed black blood?"

The others were confused by Applejack's question until they caught on themselves, stupified at the fact that there existed a manticore holding the same blood as Crona. Twilight spoke up "By Celestia's mane, that is black blood." She uttered dumbfoundedly "But how is that possible? No manticore could be born with such a thing!"

Rarity eyed Crona carefully while it defended itself "Crona couldn't have something to do with this, could she?"

Pinkie tilted her head "Well, Crona's the only pony we know with black blood so far. Maybe we should ask once this battle's over?" She suggested obliviously. A thought had crossed her mind and she spoke again "Say girls..." The other mares gave Pinkie their attention "About my Pinkie Sense earlier...I've already been called crazy a couple of times, but what if Crona's the doozy?" She asked as she watched Crona fight.

Before anypony could answer, Crona had hopped away from the manticore and bit down hard on Ragnarok as its eyes narrowed "Scream resonance." After Crona's command, a set of large red lips sprouted from the blade just above the hilt. They grinned before they opened wide to give off a deafening scream that brought up a sonic wave throughout town square.

Twilight and the others covered their ears from the scream's intensity, clenching their eyes shut and gritting their teeth as the sonic wave continued to permeate the air. The manticore had been stunned from the scream as well, giving off a desperate roar to try and tune out the sonic wave. While it was distracted, Crona spotted another opening in the manticore's chest; this was the ideal target for the killing blow. It charged forward, and after rearing its head back with Ragnarok, Crona gave a mighty swing to the desired area, hitting the manticore in the chest as his roar was ceased.

Everypony on the sidelines widened their eyes when Crona managed to cut the manticore in two, but their surprise had doubled as they saw the beast fade to black before it swirled in a spiral and gathered to form a glowing red wisp that hung in the air over the small puddle of black blood.

Fluttershy went pale; This was the last thing she remembered when seeing Crona in the forest last night. She didn't want to believe it, but she was now caring for a killer pony carrying a demon inside, and while she cared for Crona and Ragnarok, she was worried that they would be ostracized by the rest of the town.

Twilight, enraptured by what was present in place of the manticore, approached the floating wisp and examined it up close "What is this?" She asked in a whisper.

Rarity felt troubled with the wisp's presence "Twilight, get away from that! It could be dangerous!" She warned.

Sadly for Rarity, her friends, save for Fluttershy, were just as curious as Twilight, gathering with her to study the glowing ball themselves. Pinkie poked at it "What do you think it is? If anything, it's shiny!"

Rainbow Dash arched an eyebrow at it "Whatever it is, I dunno if it's a good idea to keep it here..."

Twilight darted her head at Rainbow Dash "Are you kidding me? We should study this further!" She glanced back at it as her eyes glimmered with inspiration "For all we know, this could lead us to a new breakthrough in the study of magic." Twilight said, bristling with excitement.

Applejack frowned "Don't seem all that interestin'. Ominous, yeah, but y'all don't think it actually has anythin' t' do with magic, do ya?"

"It's a soul..."

The element bearers turned to Crona, whose eyes went back to their former color as Ragnarok shifted and sunk back inside of its back. It turned to the others "That soul belonged to the manticore I just killed."

Rarity stared blankly at Crona before she saw the moment to drape a hoof over her forehead, give off a tired moan, and faint again. Rainbow Dash looked down at her in irritation "Seriously? That's like the third time today!"

Applejack regarded Crona with befuddled eyes "Ya mean t' tell us that's a soul of a fallen critter?" She turned to look at it as her heart quivered "Now Ah feel disturbed just lookin' at it." Applejack commented.

Twilight was just as disturbed as she watched it "But the soul is immaterial according to magic study. We're actually seeing a soul in a tangible form?"

Fluttershy neared the floating soul and gently placed a hoof on it "I don't believe it..." She began to tear up as she continued to stare "That poor thing...I can't believe he's gone..."

Crona saw the sadness in Fluttershy's eyes and felt sorry for her, cautiously drawing near her before it pawed at the ground shyly "I-...I'm sorry if this bothers you, Fluttershy. But that manticore...it nearly killed those ponies back there...If we didn't act sooner-"

"I understand." Fluttershy interrupted tersely, though she was still lamenting over the manticore that had died "Everypony would've suffered if he wasn't stopped..." She said as she caressed the soul before holding it close with her forelegs. Tears streamed down her face "If only there was another way around this..." Fluttershy whimpered as she began to sob.

Crona couldn't watch Fluttershy act so sad over something that had affected her town so horribly. It then looked down at the puddle of black blood and widened its eyes, its pupils trembling 'Oh no...The black blood! Why didn't I notice this sooner!?'

While everypony was gathered around the soul of the fallen beast, Discord teleported back and quickly looked around "Are you girls okay? Where's the manticore? Is it-" He looked ahead to see the group with their own respective expressions, feeling confused himself as he raised a bushy eyebrow "I've obviously missed something here...The question is what it was..."

End of Chapter 7

Chapter 8

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Chapter 8

The Truth About Souls! Discord has a secret?

Discord tilted his head at the huddled ponies, ignoring Rarity laying unconscious on the ground. He glided towards them with curiousity in his eyes "Hey there, everypony. What's going on? Is there something interesting the manticore left behind?"

Twilight turned away from the group to see the draconequus approach them "Discord. Is everypony safe and sound?"

"Actually, I have terrible news..." Discord said with a look of heavy sadness in his eyes "When I came in and swept away the victims, I was unable to save them all in time..." He said as his eyes closed "They will be missed..." He murmured, earning the attention of the other ponies, save for Fluttershy and Crona. They shared his look of sadness until a snickering was heard, to which Discord bursted out laughing "I'm just kidding! They're all alive and well! I was on the ball when I dragged them out of harm's way."

While Twilight was relieved to hear the news, she groaned "That wasn't funny, Discord. They were lucky to survive any unexpected danger." She said in aggravation.

Discord held his claw and paw in a placating motion "Take it easy, Twilight; I was only trying to lighten the mood is all." He looked over at Fluttershy and Crona, both of their backs turned as they focused on their own interests "And I see that it hasn't entirely worked. What's going on?"

Applejack shuddered "Ya should probably see this fer yerself. Ah dunno if ya'd like it, though..."

Discord inched towards Fluttershy and heard the sound of her sobbing, causing his heart to nearly wrench itself "Oh dear...Fluttershy, what's wrong? Did that manticore hurt you?" His eyes narrowed as he darted his head about "That fleabag's looking for a world of pandemonium if he's anywhere around!" He snapped apprehensively, unhappy with the fact that his best friend could be possibly hurt.

Fluttershy cast a sideways glance with her tear-stained eyes "Oh, Discord...It's awful...The manticore-"

"The manticore's gone, Discord." Twilight interrupted "But he did leave something behind..." She looked over at her sorrowful friend "Show him, Fluttershy."

Fluttershy was hesitant at first, but she shifted her body to show the manticore's soul nestled in her forelegs, shining its bright red glow while the pegasus sniffled. Discord widened his eyes "I-...I don't believe it..." He pointed a claw "That belonged to the manticore, correct?" He asked in an unusually serious tone, though he was surprised all the more.

Twilight nodded "It happened to become that right after Crona..." She looked away with her ears drooping, a frightened look in her eyes "...Well, I don't want to say it for Fluttershy's sake."

Discord held out his eagle claw "Fluttershy, may I see what you're holding please?" Fluttershy reluctantly offered the soul to Discord, who held it carefully with two talons as he inspected it up close "It's been so long since I've seen anything like this." He looked down at the other ponies "But how did this happen?"

Pinkie Pie held up her forehooves "Let's just say the manticore's here, but at the same time he's NOT here thanks to Crona." She looked over at the mentioned pony staring into the puddle of black blood "Crona? You okay over there?"

Rainbow Dash hovered with a frown "You know, ever since Crona brought up the whole 'manticore's soul' thing, she's been standing over there and hasn't moved at all." She glided over to Crona's catatonic face, then where its eyes were directed towards, wincing at the puddle "Oh, I get it...You don't like staring at blood a whole lot, don't ya? I don't blame you."

Crona lightly whimpered "The blood...But that could only mean..."
_____

Crona laid in the middle of the darkened forest, giving off a pained moan as it picked itself up. It rubbed its head with a forehoof and opened its eyes to scan its surroundings "Huh? Where-...Where am I?" Crona said, waking up and looking around, feeling panicked about the scenery "Th-This isn't Lady Medusa's hideout...What happened?" It looked at its forelegs and yelped "What's going on!?"

The human-turned-pony couldn't comprehend its current situation, being sent to a different area after being fatally wounded by their own mother. There were sounds of snarls and hisses that brought Crona out of its thoughts "Who's there?" The frightened pony picked itself up and looked around 'What's going on? Is this the afterlife? I-...I-...' Crona's face grimaced, never anticipating to end up in such a random and dark situation.

'...I don't know how to deal with this!'

Crona's heart stopped when the many horrors of the dark forest came into plain sight; several ferocious animals unlike anything seen in the demon sword meister's past life slowly inched closer to surround their prey. Crona bared its teeth and whimpered "Why? I thought I would be through with this kind of suffering...Why?"

As if any unexpected actions have already occured, Crona was caught off-guard when something jabbed its head. Hovering over the frightened pony was an irate Ragnarok "Would you quit your whining!? I'm trying to sleep here!" After catching a glimpse of Crona's new form and the monsters that surrounded them, Ragnarok's anger was forgotten "What the-...Where are we?"

Crona looked around with discomfort "I don't know, but I don't like it..." It murmured. What appeared to be a wolf made of wood salivated in front of Crona and bent down in a pouncing stance, ready to strike at the seemingly helpless target.

Ragnarok leered at the advancing monsters and grunted "Whatever, these idiots are starting to bug me! Let's get 'em, Crona!"

Crona looked up, showing Ragnarok one of its forelegs "But I have no hands..." A set of fangs biting down on Crona's foreleg caught its attention. It stared at the wolf biting down before yelling and flailing its hoof, knocking the wolf away and turning it into a pile of twigs. Traces of Crona's blood dripped from the wound it suffered before it was hardened up by Ragnarok.

Before the rude growth could ask for a 'thank you', a set of claws slashed at Crona's back, eliciting a surprised look on its face while it was sent forward into the ground. Ragnarok hardened the wound shortly after some blood flew while Crona picked itself up to look back at the giant lion with wings swatting the pony away with a paw.

Ragnarok growled after his meister took so many hits "Quit fooling around and kill them, Crona!"

Crona picked itself up and rubbed its face "But I can't use you with no arms, Ragnarok...I don't know what to do." The frightened pony said, feeling helpless in its new form.

"Then use your mouth! Let's just kill these bastards and find out where we are!" Ragnarok spat while he defended Crona.

Crona nodded before looking ahead at the group of monsters, its look of anxiety gradually replaced with faint conviction "Scream Resonance..." Ragnarok melded down into a liquid trail that lined across Crona's mouth and formed a long thin blade, the pony biting down on the hilt. From the blade sprouted a set of red lips that sported a toothy grin before giving off a piercing yell.

The monsters gave off roars, screeches, and hisses from the intensity of Ragnarok's shout, but it was short-lived when Crona improvised with Ragnarok in mouth and made quick work of each one. When there was nothing but blood and souls, Crona stood with its maddening gaze 'I don't know where I am...I don't know what to do other than fight anything that comes my way...I don't want to fight anymore...'

A gasp was heard, and Crona turned its head to see what appeared to be a pony with wings staring with frightened eyes 'Another pony...Maybe...Maybe that pony can help me...' Crona slowly trotted towards the pony while she backed away and whimpered. She then jumped back into the forest out of sight, much to Crona's disappointment 'Oh no...Now what am I gonna do?' Crona's eyes went back to normal, a look of sadness seen as tears welled up in its eyes 'I'm lost...We're lost...'

"Hey!"

Crona looked down on the blade that had red lips "Quit standing around like a moron! Just grab the souls and let's get moving. We gotta figure out where the hell we are now!"

The frightened pony looked back at the carnage left in its wake and shook its head before opening its mouth to let the sword meld into liquid and seep back inside Crona "We don't need souls, Ragnarok..." It opened its eyes to see the brush where the other pony ran through "But you're right. We have to keep moving..."

Ragnarok popped out of Crona's back and glared "Seriously!? It's bad enough you decide against not nabbing a few well-earned souls back at the DWMA, but you're still gonna stick to that!?" The rude growth looked down at a rare sight to his eyes: an agitated meister who was more focused on the current matter.

There was seldom a time where Crona would ever get angry at Ragnarok; he would be lucky enough to counter with his own anger with greater force, but even he knew not to antagonize his meister when they had enough. Ragnarok cautiously inched away from Crona "A-Alright, fine. Let's get out of here..." He muttered.

After coming to an agreement, the deadly pair attempted to follow after the pony through the brush that she jumped through. Little did they know that another monster stepped into the battle's aftermath and inspected the blood that was left behind by Crona and Ragnarok. It leaned down towards the black blood and sniffed at it before lapping it up.
_____

Crona stared at the blood for what felt like an eternity and shook its head "No, this isn't good. This isn't good at all!"

Rainbow Dash inched away from Crona after its outburst and arched an eyebrow "What's gotten into you all of the sudden, Crona? The blood isn't that bad, is it?"

Crona darted its head towards Rainbow Dash "It is! We have to get rid of it!"

Pinkie trotted over to Crona as she rolled her eyes "Well, duh~! Nopony wants to look at blood, even if it's a different color." She smiled at Crona "At least you're considerate about cleaning up a mess, Crony."

Crona turned towards Pinkie "It's not about that! My black blood is dangerous!"

Twilight looked over at Crona "I'm willing to agree on two factors." She held up a hoof "For starters, we know that any creature from the Everfree Forest wouldn't leave their home unless they were provoked. Secondly, we've noticed that the manticore was bleeding black blood throughout the whole battle." She trotted over towards the puddle and frowned "We'll have to dispose of this stuff as soon as possible."

Applejack - who carried Rarity onto her back while she was still unconscious - pointed a hoof "What about Crona? We already know he's partially responsible fer this. If anypony else were t' find out, they'd drive 'im outta town in a heartbeat!"

Discord scowled while holding the manticore's soul "...I get the distinct feeling I'm being ignored..." He snapped his talons, and the traces of black blood seen through town square had vanished, and the damages have been easily repaired. All the ponies present directed their attention towards the spirit of chaos, who wore a smug grin "See? Simple as that. Normally, that would've taken hours, if not days to clean up." He stared until his expression of uncharacteristic seriousness kicked in "Now back towards the matter at hoof. Crona was responsible for this, right?" The mentioned pony nodded slowly when it was acknowledged "Then it's no doubt you're from another world." He held up the soul towards the ponies "Something like this is unattainable through simply felling foes. This shouldn't even be seen by pony eyes."

"Whoops!" said Pinkie as she reflexively covered her eyes with her forelegs "There we go." She chirped with a wide smile.

Discord shook his head "You and your friends don't count, Pinkie; you're already aware of the spectacle." He looked at the soul in his hands "Although, we'll have to get rid of this before it's discovered by any unwanted onlookers."

Ragnarok popped out of Crona's back with a gleeful look in his eyes "Done and done! Hand it over here!"

Discord blinked at Ragnarok before reaching his eagle claw towards him. Ragnarok examined the soul before he revealed his mouth and wrapped the soul in his tongue, snatching it from Discord's grasp and swallowing it whole. He ignored the many looks of shock from the other ponies while he smacked his lips "Finally! That was another good meal!" He paused before turning to Fluttershy and Applejack "Speaking of meal..."

Crona looked at the element bearers and their shock and blinked "What's wrong? We got rid of the soul, right? Why are you all looking at us like that?" The meister was beginning to think that what Ragnarok had done in front of its friends wasn't considered to be normal in Equestria.

Twilight twitched an eye and pointed a shaky hoof towards Ragnarok "Y-...Did you just-...!?"

Rainbow Dash's jaw was dropped before she covered her mouth with her forehooves as her face turned green, her cheeks puffed. She flew away without warning, and a distant sound of release was heard.

Applejack covered her face with her hat "That jus' ain't right!" She blurted out. To her credit, she was lucky that Rarity did not see such a thing to faint for a fourth time.

Pinkie was the only pony that wasn't creeped out by the grotesque display "Wait a minute...Souls can be eaten?" She looked down and silently contemplated on what her soul would taste like, oblivious to the current scene.

Fluttershy was the most devastated "How could you?" She uttered.

Ragnarok looked at Fluttershy "What are you gawking at? I was hungry, and I haven't had a soul for a long time!" He narrowed his eyes "Also, I remember you promised us a meal after we chose to acknowledge your dumb friends! I'll look the other way since we're gonna eat at Applejack's first, but I expect you to keep your promise next time!"

Fluttershy's look of shock was replaced with that of anger as she stared at the rude growth "How dare you?"

Ragnarok raised an eyebrow, confused by Fluttershy's question "What's that supposed to mean?"

Fluttershy flew into Ragnarok's face, her anger intensified "How dare you!? Why would you go so far as to eating someone's soul as if it were candy!?"

Ragnarok narrowed his eyes "What does it matter to you?" He spat irritably "In case you haven't noticed, I have a taste for souls and that one was ripe for the picking! Besides, that stupid manticore was already dead, so he's fair game. Why are you acting like it's a crime?"

Fluttershy gritted her teeth "Just because he wasn't with us anymore doesn't mean you can just go about and eating his soul like that! Who do you think you are!?" She shouted.

Ragnarok growled "Obviously I'm a weapon! If you don't like me eating souls, then it sucks to be you!" He shouted back. Crona grew unsettled over the argument that started between them.

Discord was just as unsettled as Crona, though attempted to quell the argument before more voices were raised "Look, Fluttershy, I'm just as surprised as you are about this, but at least Ragnarok was able to mask the evidence. We shouldn't dwell on this when there are bigger things to worry about!"

Sadly, his words fell on deaf ears as Fluttershy pointed a hoof at Ragnarok "I don't know where you get off with doing something like that, but it's unacceptable! How would you like it if somepony devoured YOUR soul?"

Ragnarok laughed defiantly "Like that'll ever happen! Who would even do that? You? You can't even fight to save your life!"

Fluttershy growled at Ragnarok's intolerant words and focused her eyes against his own, channeling an unknown power that found its way into the rude growth's body, causing his eyes to widen "Agh! What is this!?"

Applejack watched the sene and cracked a thin smile "Heh, serves him right..." She said to herself until she caught a glimpse of Crona, who wasn't looking so well. To her, Crona held the same exact reaction of Ragnarok and looked as if it were suffering pain "Oh horseapples." She looked over at Fluttershy "Fluttershy! Ah know Ragnarok deserves yer stare, but Ah think Crona's feelin' it, too! He ain't likin' it at all!"

Discord looked down and grimaced at Crona's expression. He gently nudged Fluttershy and grabbed her attention, then pointed at the weakened pony under Ragnarok. She gasped as her anger instantly vanished "Oh my goodness! Crona, are you alright?" Fluttershy asked as she held Crona's cheeks.

Crona's eyes wandered as if it were in a daze "What happened?" It moaned while Ragnarok was in a similar state after dealing with Fluttershy's stare.

Twilight gazed intently at Crona and Ragnarok "Incredible...It must be their symbiotic relationship that's causing them to feel 'The Stare' simultaneously." She frowned "It'll be tough for Fluttershy to get used to Ragnarok without having to resort to using it if he acts out too much."

Applejack narrowed her eyes at Ragnarok "Well, that don't help us none." She turned to Twilight "But that just leaves one thing..." Twilight shared a glance with the farmpony "How does Discord know so much about souls?"

Twilight perked up "Hey, you're right!" She looked up at Discord with a suspicious glance "How DO you know about the concept of a material soul, Discord?"

Discord stared blankly at Twilight before laughing "Oh, Twilight, you know how me and Celestia are so old and more acquainted with the aspect of certain magics. It's nothing to worry about right now, since we've just avoided something big."

Twilight narrowed her eyes "Funny, because for as long as I've studied magic from literature, there hasn't been a single passage that stated that souls can easily be acquired through killing somepony!"

Discord stared before shifting his eyes left and right. He then inched back when he got an idea "I'd love to stay and chat about that, but I should check on Spike. The little boy's all cooped up in the library with nothing to do. Oh, and I should tell everypony that the manticore's gone. Bye now!" He said hastily as he snapped his talons and winked out, much to Twilight's frustration.

Applejack sighed "Of course he'd know somethin'. Should we follow 'im?" She asked Twilight.

Twilight huffed "No...He'll come back eventually." She said with an annoyed glare towards where Discord once stood. Twilight then turned to Crona with concern "The better question is if Crona's alright."

Crona moaned before shaking its head frantically to brush off its daze "What just happened? All I remembered was you and Ragnarok fighting, and then I felt something inside of me..." It looked at Fluttershy with bewildered eyes.

Fluttershy sighed in relief before smiling at Crona "It doesn't matter now. At least you're alright." They stared until something pulled on Fluttershy's mane, causing her to yelp.

Ragnarok pulled on Fluttershy's mane with both of his paws with an irate gaze "What the hell did you do to me and Crona!? You think I'm just gonna let that slide!? I'll get you if one of us is weaker because of you!"

Applejack watched and carefully set Rarity down before charging at Ragnarok "Hey! Let 'er go, ya jerk!" When she knew that Ragnarok wasn't using Crona as a shield, Applejack turned around and reared her hindlegs back before landing a good hit on Ragnarok's face, causing him to drop his hold on Fluttershy.

Ragnarok froze after getting hit before slowly focusing his eyes on Applejack "Why...you..." He went to lunge at the farmpony, but was held in place when he was covered in a magical aura courtesy of Twilight. The two mares glared at Ragnarok while he struggled.

Crona looked up in awe "Huh? Ragnarok?" When it spotted Twilight's horn, the ambiguous pony's eyes widened "How are you doing that?"

Twilight grunted while Ragnarok struggled in her hold "It's just a simple telekinetic spell. No offense, Crona, but Ragnarok really needs to learn some manners."

Fluttershy straightened her mane and looked over at Ragnarok flailing about while yelling obscenities, feeling threatened over his sudden retaliation 'This is going to be a lot harder than I thought. Crona is nice, but Ragnarok is very mean...' She stared until she took a deep breath 'No, I can't let that discourage me. Crona needs our help to be kept in good spirits.'

Rainbow Dash flew back with an exhausted look on her face, which vanished when she got a look at Ragnarok "Did I miss something?"

Applejack snorted "Ragnarok here was hurtin' Fluttershy, but me an' Twi gave 'im what for!"

Rainbow Dash instantly flew down towards Ragnarok with anger in her eyes "They said you hurt Fluttershy? You better be lucky Twilight's holding you down!"

Fluttershy hummed before she turned to Applejack "Umm...Why don't we head back to Sweet Apple Acres? I would feel horrible to have your food go to waste."

Applejack sighed before smiling at Fluttershy "Good point. Maybe we should head back." She narrowed her eyes at Ragnarok "Though a part o' me wants t' call it a day with HIM around..."

Fluttershy shook her head "I'm sure it won't be no trouble at all."

"What?" Rainbow Dash said incredulously "Fluttershy, this giant zit was hurting you, and you're just gonna ignore that?"

Fluttershy held her mane "Yes, I know he did, and I'm still disappointed with what he's done. But maybe he needs some time to adjust."

Applejack shook her head "Y'all 're gettin' too nice fer somepony like Ragnarok, sugarcube."

Twilight grunted again while Ragnarok continued to struggle "I agree. Something tells me that Ragnarok's gonna be more difficult to adjust."

Ragnarok continued to flail and shout until he was losing energy, his actions becoming more haggard and sloppy. When he was finished, he slumped his arms and began to catch his breath. Twilight relinquished her hold on him and heaved a sigh of relief as she rubbed her head.

"Souls..."

The mares, Crona, and Ragnarok turned to Pinkie Pie, who sat with a pensive stare at the ground "What would souls taste like..." She looked at her friends "Would they be good?"

Everypony except Crona and Ragnarok thought to question Pinkie's sanity after her question. To draw them from their fears, Discord teleported back conveniently "Okay, so it turns out that Spike was actually doing fine along with everypony else. I already told them that the manticore's gone, so they should get back to their normal lives without any trouble."

Crona blinked at Discord "It's that easy for them?"

Discord shrugged "It wouldn't be the first time Ponyville was met with something big." He smiled "Though I'm guilty of some of the more recent events."

"Yeah, like the part where you're not telling us about your knowledge of souls." Twilight snarked with a gaze that demanded answers.

Discord flinched and looked away "Oh blitznak..."

Rainbow Dash dropped to the ground and picked up Rarity, lightly shaking her and waking her up "Why don't we talk back at AJ's place?" She looked away "I'll pass on the food, though. I'm not really that hungry after what I just saw."

Rarity murmured and rubbed her eyes before she looked at Rainbow Dash "What did you see, Rainbow?"

Rainbow Dash gave Rarity a deadpan stare "You don't wanna know..."
_____

At Sweet Apple Acres, the group enjoyed their food that was prepared by Applejack and Pinkie Pie, although they didn't approve of Ragnarok's lack of table manners, especially Rarity.

When they got their fill, they all stared at Discord with expectant glances, waiting for him to start his tale. He sighed and spread his arms "Before I begin, this doesn't leave the table. Understood?" He earned the nods of his audience "You all know what you saw back there. What you DON'T know is that there are more than just one kind of soul."

He held up his claw and paw, and two objects that resembled souls rested in his palms; in his lion paw was a blue soul; his eagle claw held a red soul "There's a saying...A sound soul lies within a sound mind-"

"And a sound body..." Crona finished in a whisper "Maka would always tell that to me whenever we study together."

Discord nodded "That's correct, but there's more to my explanation." He raised his lion paw "This soul is the sound soul I'm talking about. See its pure blue hue and its vibrant brightness. These are the good souls that can be found in the nicest of creatures." He then raised his eagle claw with a frown "Then you have these bad seeds called 'kishin eggs'. These are corrupted souls that dwell within history's greatest monsters."

Pinkie grinned "So Raggy did us a service in eating a bad soul!" She then frowned "But wouldn't they taste bad?"

Ragnarok waved a paw "Of course not! The flavor of souls depend on their strength. I should know..."

The two souls in Discord's claws disappeared "Yes, well that kind of thing varies from different creatures, but I digress." He pointed a claw "There is one more soul that is more of a rarity than your friend Rarity..."

Rarity blinked "What could that be?"

Discord squinted his eyes "A witch's soul..." He brought his lion paw forth to conjure a soul, though it was coated in a malevolent purple; the wisp resembled a witch's hat "These babies are few and far between, simply because there hasn't been any records of witches in Equestria."

Rainbow Dash raised a hoof "Does Queen Chrysalis count?"

Discord laughed before calming himself "No, not exactly, but that was a good one." He chuckled as he made the soul vanish "But those kinds of souls reside in feminine beings with uncanny magical abilities..."

Crona frowned "Like Lady Medusa..."

Discord nodded "Yes, like old Snake-eyes. There isn't much to worry about though, since they aren't exactly a dime a dozen." He leaned in to whisper in Crona's ear "Watch out for Twilight, though..."

"Discord!" came the firm voices of Twilight and Fluttershy, to which the draconequus grinned sheepishly before moving back to his spot "Anyways, that's all I can tell you about souls. There isn't much to gain from eating them, and I trust that none of you would go on a killing spree..." He turned to Crona, then blinked "I should probably keep tabs on you while we're hanging out."

Fluttershy smiled "That won't be necessary, Discord. Crona's gonna be around us, so it won't be any trouble." She frowned "But as far as the manticore..."

Discord patted Fluttershy's head "We're over that, remember? There's no use in letting that bother us when we've been through so much in just one day." He looked at the group "Just show the little one around, talk with other ponies, and make sure you all have a fun time."

Pinkie grinned "In that case, I should probably throw Crona a 'Welcome to Ponyville' party later on tonight!"

Crona looked at Pinkie "You would...throw a party for me?"

Pinkie giggled "Of course, silly! How else would we greet a new friend?"

Each of the group smiled at Crona, and it looked back and felt a wave of nostalgia over how they would welcome a duo of complete strangers without hesitation. The ambiguous pony was driven to smile back at them with a small giggle 'Maybe I shouldn't rush going back to Death City...They're all so nice to me. I think things will be much better if I stay with them for a little bit...'

End of Chapter 8

Chapter 9

View Online

Chapter 9

Madness Redux! Catering to a Pony's Whims?

Fluttershy felt rewarded in seeing Crona return the happiness that was shown by the timid pegasus and her friends, but she couldn't help but think back on the very thing that was inside of her guest. Her smile wavered as she looked at Crona "Umm… Crona? I don't mean to ruin the mood for you, but could you tell us about your blood, please?"

Twilight had caught on to Fluttershy's question, and her own curiosity was restored "I'd like to know myself. We really didn't think about it back there while we were mulling over that kishin egg, and we'd appreciate you sharing with us the capabilities of your blood."

Crona's good mood instantly vanished, and it looked down as it shuffled its forehooves "Well, you know how Ragnarok said that Lady Medusa filled me with black blood, right?" The many nods from Crona's audience signalled for the demon swordpony to continue "Well… She created the blood that's inside of me..." Crona looked away shamefully "It's used to make other things stronger, but it fills whoever has it with madness..."

"That explains how I found myself inside of a building in one swing..." Rainbow Dash said with a grimace as she rubbed her head, still feeling sore from the earlier fight.

"This black blood sounds less like its namesake and more like an experimental magic serum." Twilight said pensively. She heard Ragnarok let off a scoff and noticed that he looked bored.

"What more do you want? We don't know the full details. Lady Medusa created the black blood, not us." He spat before looking down at Crona "Gotta admit that Crona had balls, staying alive after having all that blood replaced with the black blood." Applejack, Rainbow Dash and Rarity all traded worried glances before turning to Crona.

"Y'all ain't at risk goin' crazy on us, right, Crona?" Applejack asked cautiously.

Crona looked over at Applejack and shook its head "No. I'm okay, really."

"But your body's chalk full of black blood! How do we know you won't snap on us right now?" Rainbow Dash asked as she stood warily.

"Because I can control my blood. Not everyone's good at it like me or Ragnarok." Crona answered calmly.

"You heard Crona, everypony. We've got nothing to worry about." Discord said reassuringly "All we have to do is make sure that our little friend doesn't get any nasty paper cuts so that we can enjoy our time together without any wrinkled sprinkles." He added teasingly.

"That's nothing to worry about. I can harden my blood anytime." Ragnarok said proudly as he flexed his small arms. The ponies, save for Crona, smiled at this.

"Well, that's one less problem to worry about." Rarity said as she flicked her mane. "At least we have the rest of the day to ourselves now."

"Correction: YOU have the rest of the day to yourselves!" Pinkie said with a toothy grin, before pointing a hoof at herself "Pinkie's got places to be. Smell ya later!" She said before zipping off in a pink blur.

Crona stared in awe, amazed at how fast Pinkie was going before it felt a tap on its shoulder. The demon swordpony looked over at a smug Rainbow Dash.

"Don't let that sight fool you, sister; I'm the fast one out of all of us." She said cockily as she flew up and performed a loop-de-loop in the air "Just you wait and see me practice."

Crona stared up at Rainbow Dash and tilted its head. The cyan pegasus really was similar to Black Star with her pride. Meanwhile, Ragnarok let off a tired moan "I'm bored now. Have fun with your little group hugs and picnics, I guess." He said before sinking back into Crona's body.

"Well, why don't we go back into town?" Fluttershy offered, wanting to move things along with her friends, and getting Crona acquainted with Ponyville.

"Sounds good t' me. Let's saddle up, y'all." Applejack said as she and her friends got up from the table and trotted back to Ponyville.

Fluttershy went with her friends, but stopped when she noticed Crona lagging behind. She smiled and matched the black pony's pace, staying at its side "Don't worry, Crona. This time will be a lot different."

"I'm not worried about that..." Crona muttered with a shy look.

"What's bothering you?" Fluttershy asked inquisitively, ready to help her new friend if the moment called for it. She watched Crona meet her gaze and blushed lightly.

"I would like some clothes, please..."
_____

Griffhala: Capital of the griffon kingdom. At first, it was solely populated by griffons, but over time, thanks to continuing relations with the ponies, griffons and ponies alike were able to cooperate with one another in terms of business and living arrangements.

The only one who was partial to such an issue was Gilda the Griffon.

She was busy enjoying a small stroll through the city, thinking to herself on what would sound entertaining for her to do, given that the city bored her to death ever since she returned home. What would snap her out of her thoughts were griffons and ponies that obscured her path before they moved out of her way, not paying them any mind as she made her stride. She would often cast a nasty glance to any pony she came across until they were out of her sight. Whenever the path ahead of her was clear enough, she would simply go back to her thoughts.

'What to do… I could always scare one of those stupid ponies again. Or maybe I could grab some food. Decisions, decisions...' She thought to herself, a thin smile forming on her face. Sure, her cycle was repetitive at times, but Gilda was able to make the best of whatever she did without any trouble on herself, especially when it came to pranks or snatching food when no one was looking.

However, as much as she hated to admit it, it wasn't the same without her old friend. Before her thoughts became wistful, she steeled herself and focused on having her fun rather than dredge up painful memories 'I don't need that flip-flop. I'm better off without her...'

As Gilda trailed off in her own mind, she was oblivious to a cloaked pony coming her way; its head hidden beneath its brown hood. As the mysterious pony made its stride, Gilda unknowingly bumped into her, stumbling in her step before coming back to reality and scowling at the passing pony, who acted as if nothing happened "Hey! I'm walking here!" She snapped irritably. The mystery pony had briefly stopped and shifted its head back, a beige muzzle seen in Gilda's view

"I can see that. You merely bumped into me, so basically, you're at fault. You should watch where you're going next time." The pony said in a mature feminine voice before resuming her trot.

Gilda was perplexed before she growled at the mare's reply. She had the audacity to act as if the griffon was in the wrong and just get off scot-free. Gilda walked back towards the mare and placed a claw on her shoulder "Mind saying that to my face, dweeb?" She said angrily. Some passing ponies and griffons stopped at the small scene taking place.

"I would gladly do so, but I'm on a tight schedule. Would you kindly release me so that I may be on my way, please?" The mare asked nonchalantly.

This earned a snort from Gilda, as she kept her grip on the hooded pony "Fat chance. Either you prove to me you're not all talk or I'll just wreck you here." She said abrasively.

There was silence as the two stood until it was broken by a small fit of laughter courtesy of the mare, much to Gilda's confusion. Without turning towards her, the hooded mare donned a short smile "If you wish to go that route, I'd rather not make a scene. Would you like to follow me somewhere so that we may settle this trivial matter properly?" The mare asked in an eerily polite tone.

"Are you serious?" Gilda said incredulously, before smirking admirably "And here I thought all ponies were just peace-loving yahoos. Alright, lead the way..." The griffon released her hold on the mystery mare, whose smile grew slightly wider afterwards.

"Excellent… This way, please..." The mare said as she resumed her trot with Gilda following close behind.

Gilda couldn't believe she was actually going to have fun by knocking a pony senseless, especially when said pony had no trouble going through with it herself. For once, her day was both different and interesting. She was befuddled when she noticed that the pony turned into a dank and shady alley between two large buildings; one being a shop and the other an apartment.

Once the two had found themselves in the middle of the alley, the mystery mare faced Gilda, her face obscured under the shadow of her hood, while Gilda merely looked ahead, raising an eyebrow.

"Fighting in an alley, huh? There's something you don't see everyday." Gilda quipped as she tried to study her opponent's features.

"With all due respect, I've witnessed similar barbaric traits around this city. This is merely a spot I've desired to settle our matter in without any unnecessary witnesses..." The mare replied cooly.

"Touche on the first part, but why so secretive about this? Can't have a good fight without an audience, you know." Gilda said as she cracked her knuckles and got into a fighting stance.

"Let's just say I'm still trying to get a good feel of this place. I'm glad you were willing to oblige to my request as far as destination." The mare said before she slowly got onto her hind legs and held out her forelegs, both of which appeared to have large, black, dotted snake tattoos winding down towards her hooves. She began to make slow waving gestures as a strange incantation was uttered from her lips.

"Nake Snake, Cobra Cobubra...
Nake Snake, Cobra Cobubra..."

Gilda stared blankly at the pony in front of her, who was acting as if she were in some kind of dance audition while she continued spewing what the griffon perceived as gibberish from her mouth. Gilda craned her head back while staring at her strange opponent, her guard slightly lowered.

"What the heck are you doing, lady-AUGH!"

Before she could finish her question, Gilda found herself swept upward a couple of feet in the air, painfully constricted by what appeared to be several black, arrow-tipped tendrils that had sprouted from the ground below her. As she tried to struggle in her bonds, the mysterious mare plopped back down to all fours and trotted up to Gilda with a smile that betrayed no satisfaction from her deed.

"You know, you've made this a lot easier for me by letting me properly test my powers in a secluded area. It seems I still haven't lost my touch..." The mare said as she donned an insane smile that stretched from ear-to-ear. She let off her hood to reveal that she had a spiked blonde mane and yellow eyes that were narrowed to slits "Now all that remains is deciding what to do with you… Do I just punish you? Or perhaps I should sate my hunger and cook you on a spit?"

Now she's seen everything; Gilda was not only being handled by a pony, but a pony that was so far off the deep end that she belonged in Tartarus. For the first time in her life, she was nearly scared out of her wits.

'N-No… It can't end like this! It can't!' Gilda clenched her eyes shut as she flailed about in her bonds, the thought of survival clouding her mind. She was unable to escape no matter how hard she had tried to break free.

The blonde mare watched Gilda's helpless struggle in amusement and chuckled to herself. It would be no hard task to end the life of her prey, but then she realized that there are some things about this world that she needs to study, and she could make use of the captive in front of her to get what she wants. Even she knew that there are certain tasks that require some assistance. She took another step forward towards the struggling griffon, the smile refusing to leave her face.

"Clearly, you do not wish to die, correct? Perhaps we can negotiate some terms if you're willing to lend an ear..." She said persuasively.

Gilda instantly ceased her flailing after she had heard the mare's request. Wasn't she on the verge of ending her life a few seconds earlier? It seemed too good to be true that a crazy earth pony capable of magic was quick to let her live so long as she was interested in what was going to be said.

"...I'm listening..." Gilda said in an even tone, unnerved by the mare's shift in attitude. She was perplexed when the mare appeared to look gentle, as opposed to her earlier mask of insanity.

"Wonderful. You're aware that I've made mention of being new around here. In fact, I'm looking for some capable assistants that can aid me in some research for the time being. Would you like to be one of my assistants?" The mare asked politely, despite the gentle expression on her face that belied her malicious intent.

Gilda never thought she would be forced into a corner by a stranger like this. She was thrown off by the request of being the mare's so-called assistant for a short time, but looking at her situation, it was a whole lot better than dying. Gilda swallowed her pride and looked down at the smiling madmare below her.

"Fine, I'll be your assistant. But mind telling me who you are and what you're trying to learn or accomplish here?" Gilda asked inquisitively. She grunted when she remembered the bonds she was trapped in "And what the heck kind of spell did you use just now? Aren't unicorns supposed to be good at magic?" The mare hung her head as she closed her eyes.

"I should've known that what I'm capable of seems to be out of the ordinary to you, but I suppose there's no harm in filling you in, since you've graciously accepted my offer." She looked back up at Gilda "My name is Medusa, and what's keeping you bound in place is my vector magic. As for what my intentions for research are… well, I may just need more assistants and accumulated knowledge before I can share with you my true intentions. I'll need you to accompany me and scout for any plausible candidates for our cause."

"Wait a minute, our cause?" Gilda asked.

"Of course. You are my assistant, after all, so this is just as much your cause as it is my own." Medusa said in a seemingly friendly tone "So, if I have your full commitment and cooperation, I'll see fit to release you so that we can get started, provided I won't have to put up with any unnecessary treachery. I do have your trust, right?" She asked as her smile widened at Gilda, who felt her spine chill just from looking at the strange mare.

"Yeah, whatever. You know I wanna live and junk; just get me down, please?" Gilda said quickly, trying to keep her cool. She wanted to kick herself so badly for feeling this submissive around Medusa, even if she was a supposedly powerful earth pony capable of magic. A wave of relief swept across her body when the many vectors that wrapped around her had relinquished their hold and retracted back into the ground, while Gilda hovered downward as well. She rubbed her forearms before she stared warily at Medusa.

"So, now that we're working together, do you have any possible leads on who would likely join us? Mind you, we mustn't continue without some more help on our side." Medusa said as she inspected her hoof 'I should also look into the limitations on my new body in case I do not exert my power at the wrong time.'

Gilda pursed her lips at the thought of picking through different ponies and griffons to see who would actually want to join a crazy mare in some shaded agenda, but she sighed in resignation knowing she was already being ordered around. She thought for a moment before she remembered a point of interest.

"I think know somepony who could possibly roll with us. It'll be hard to convince her since you're being so secretive though." Gilda said in a straight tone. Medusa's smile widened, much to the griffon's distaste.

"Perhaps I was lucky to have you run into me. Won't you lead me to this lady?" Medusa asked somewhat cheerfully.

"Sure thing. I think I know where she is right now." Gilda said as she looked down at Medusa "Say, you think you could ditch that cloak of yours? I know you're magical and all, but it's kinda rubbing me the wrong way that you're wearing it the whole time. You're probably gonna end up drawing more attention to yourself that way around here."

"Oh? So you think I won't stick out..." Medusa brought a foreleg to her cloak and she pulled it off to reveal the rest of her body; her upper body was covered in what appeared to be a sleeveless black hoodie with white eye-like markings on either side of the hood. Instead of a regular tail, there was a black arrow that trailed down from the back of her attire that somehow acted as a suitable replacement. Her cutie mark was that of two snakes coiled around a black rose "...looking like this?" She asked with a raised eyebrow.

Gilda was at a loss for words after taking in Medusa's appearance. This was indeed no ordinary pony. She winced as she watched the tail attached to her hoodie move.

"Alright, you raise a good point. That tail of yours is way past freaky." She commented as she watched Medusa put her cloak back on.

"Hence, why it was necessary to cover it up in the first place. I'm no stranger to concealing my identity towards others." Medusa said pointedly, as she placed the cloak's hood over her head "Besides, we're wasting precious time standing around. Show me where your friend is."

"Alright, sheesh." Gilda groaned as she turned and left the alley with Medusa. A part of her wondered if she could make a break for it the moment the two made it out of the alley, but three things held her back: Her own pride upon running off as a coward, the fact that Medusa could possibly track her down, and Gilda's curiosity over what her new superior was planning that required an extra set of hooves and claws.

They treaded along the sidewalks of the city until they reached a shabby, but spacious cafe to their left. Peering into the window, Gilda could make out some griffons sitting on some of the stools at the bar. She perked up when she spotted the shape of a pegasus near the far end who appeared to be slouching on the counter.

"Found her. Guess I was right about her being here." Gilda said, looking over at a neutral Medusa "Gonna pop in for a visit?"

"I don't see why not. Let's go inside." Medusa said as the two opened the front door, triggering a bell that announced their arrival. The cafe's customers, save for the pegasus, whose appearance was obstructed by the others, stole a glance at Gilda and Medusa before they went back to their own business.

Medusa took the lead as she and Gilda made their way across the room and got a better look at the pegasus up ahead that was grasping a cup of coffee. She appeared to have an opal coat and a two-toned yellow mane and tail. Her cutie mark was a bolt of lightning with three stars under it. Medusa shifted her eyes at Gilda.

"She's the one you mentioned? I thought you weren't exactly fond of ponies." She said quietly.

"This one's different, alright? She reminds me of somepony else is all… And if anything, she's plenty qualified for whatever it is you got going on in that sick head of yours." Gilda shot back.

"I'll be the judge of that..." Medusa said with a smirk as she approached the slouching pegasus on her left. She noticed the pegasus beared a bitter look in her yellow eyes. Medusa stared quietly at her and wondered if Gilda's words held true.

"Hey, Lightning Dust. How's it hanging?" Gilda said nonchalantly, grabbing the mare's attention after her ears lifted up at the sound of the griffon's voice. She looked up at Gilda.

"Oh, hey Gilda. Didn't think you'd come here around this time." She said lazily, before sipping her coffee "What brings you around here?" Gilda pointed a talon at Medusa, and Lightning Dust followed her talon, only to flinch at the sight "Aaaand you are?" She asked as she shifted away from the hooded mare.

"Medusa. And you would be happy to know that Gilda was kind enough to lead me to you." Medusa said with a smile. Lightning Dust looked over at Gilda with an incredulous expression.

"You serious? Who's this pony, Gilda?" She asked in surprise. Gilda held up her claws in a placating motion.

"Just somepony I met, alright? I wanted to introduce you to her was all..." She said, nervous about both Medusa and the fact that she was telling a half-truth towards Lightning Dust. The aforementioned pony looked over at Medusa with a calculating glance.

"Not that it's any of my business, but why the cloak? You hiding something?" Lightning Dust asked. She and Gilda were thrown off when Medusa cringed uncharacteristically.

"Only my appearance; I'm quite shy about my figure, you know. Some ponies can be so quick to judge about me..." She said with feigned embarrassment. Lightning Dust and Gilda merely stared at Medusa's gesture, the latter sending a deadpan stare.

"Okay, so why come here? What's your thing with Gilda?" Lightning Dust asked inquisitively.

"Oh, it's not so much with her as it is with you as well. I'm gathering some assistants for some research, and according to Gilda, you'd make a fine addition to my little team." Medusa said "If you'd like, we could discuss this further in a more appropriate area."

Lightning Dust blinked at Medusa's explanation. Not only did she leave out how she had met Gilda, but she brought up the topic of research as if Gilda actually enjoyed the idea. She looked back at Gilda with a confused expression.

"Seriously, what happened when you met this pony? And research? Aren't you a griffon and not some kind of nerd?" Lightning Dust prodded, causing Gilda to grit her teeth.

"She didn't tell me the full details, alright?" Gilda nearly snapped before she took a deep breath "Look, let's all just go to my place and talk this over. It's not too far from here."

"Excellent. Why don't you lead us back home, Gilda? This could be quite the experience for you and your friend once I share with you what I'm working on..." Medusa said almost cheerfully, easily hiding the dark glee in her tone.

Gilda rolled her eyes, but then noticed that some of the other griffons were glancing at her and the ponies. She glared at the onlookers "What're you all looking at?" She spat, causing the other griffons to quickly look away and act as if they were talking amongst themselves and sipping their coffee nervously.

"Well, if the matter's settled, let's depart from here, shall we? I wish to get started soon." Medusa said in a seemingly polite manner. Lightning Dust merely hopped up from her stool after setting some bits on the counter.

"Alright, fine. But this better be good. I got my own stuff to worry about, so don't be quick to assume I'll just work with you." Lightning Dust was unaware that Gilda was trying to maintain a calm impression, but was inwardly anxious over the pegasus' choice of words towards Medusa. The hooded pony merely smiled at Lightning Dust.

"No worries. I do hope to convince you once we arrive. For all you know, it could be quite interesting..." She said as she luckily suppressed the urge to smile deviously 'Such a callous little brat. She has no idea what lies ahead of her...Once I assess this world and its features, perhaps I can try and recreate another kishin. This time, I'll make sure that nothing stands in my way...'

End of Chapter 9

Chapter 10

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Chapter 10

Surrender to the Snake! Medusa's Comeback Plot?

Gilda's home wasn't the most glamorous, as with most griffon residents, but it was at least hospitable for any company she wished to invite. However, while she didn't mind the company in her home, Gilda mentally kicked herself for making it the base of operations for her new 'superior'. She lounged on her sofa and observed how Medusa was taking in the scenery of her home while Lightning Dust trotted in and joined Gilda in sitting down.

"For a brash girl, you know how to keep a house clean. I'm impressed." Medusa said halfheartedly after she finished surveying the living room, earning a bitter scowl from Gilda.

"Would you just get to the point, please? We're here now, aren't we?" Gilda said impatiently. She watched Medusa lightly exhale before she gripped the cowl of her cloak with a hoof.

"Of course, but allow me to rid myself of this cloak. Knowing that I'm in the presence of trustworthy individuals, I can finally take this off." Medusa then took off her cloak, revealing the black hoodie underneath, complete with its prehensile arrow-shaped tail. She examined the snake tattoos on her forelegs with a smile "Much better. It was getting rather warm in that thing."

"Okay, now I see why you were wearing that cloak. You're freaky!" Lightning Dust said with a wince as she watched the tail protruding from Medusa's hoodie give a flick.

"Welcome to my world..." Gilda muttered, sharing Lightning Dust's sentiments and gawking at Medusa's appearance. Medusa merely giggled at their respective expressions.

"If I weren't so self-conscious about my image, perhaps I could show this to the rest of the world. But I digress..." She turned to Gilda and Lightning Dust with a playful smile, though carried a serious gleam in her eyes "Let's get down to business. I have a big… project in the works that would require a gratuitous amount of study, planning, and running around." She looked over at Lightning Dust "This may seem bland for an opening statement, but perhaps you'll be convinced as I go into detail."

"Sure, just make sure I don't fall asleep." Lightning Dust snarked as she rested her cheek on a foreleg. Medusa huffed, though smirked at the pegasus nonetheless.

"Let me ask you two a question..." Medusa said, pausing before she continued "Are you two bored of this world?"

"More than you'd know, lady." Gilda answered coolly, "It's the same old song and dance for me, and nothing interesting usually happens around here. I could use a little more excitement now and then." She explained, although thoughts of her encounter with Medusa lingered in her mind.

"Sort of the same thing with me." Lightning Dust answered before turning away with a distant glance "Though apparently too much excitement doesn't fly with other ponies." Medusa's grin widened.

"Then in that case, you'd be happy to know that my 'project' is bound to grant you what you desire so long as you follow my lead. I, as a scientist, also wish to enforce a change of pace onto this world. To do so, we're going to travel abroad and gather intel to further our goals of obtaining a key."

"A key?" Lightning Dust asked quizzically, "What kind of key?"

"This 'key' is the same one used to change this world and thereby issue more excitement to it. We're to find a source of power so great that it could grant us this wish." Medusa eyed Lightning Dust and Gilda in deadpan, "Knowing the two of you, we may have to search long and hard, as well as purchase some supplies that would aid us to our benefit."

"Does this mean I'm gonna have to dip into my life-savings for your sake?" Lightning Dust said with an arched eyebrow, "I know I want more excitement in my life, but I never really agreed to some psycho babble about changing the world, let alone funding that mumbo-jumbo." She awaited a reaction of disappointment from Medusa, only to find her closing her eyes with a patient smile.

"I had a feeling you would say that. You know, I'm not exactly forcing you to partake in this little project of mine, but I'd gladly give you time to think about it." The witch said as she opened her eyes at Gilda and Lightning Dust "In fact, perhaps I can tempt you with some more info tomorrow while you think it over?" She looked eerily playful as she closed her eyes again with a giddy smile, "We could even have a sleepover!" Lightning Dust craned her head back as she stared at Medusa.

"Oooookay~..." She looked over at Gilda, "As creepy as she sounds, are you down with me staying here tonight? I mean, for as much as I've visited, I'd probably be your roommate at this point." This earned a chuckle from Gilda.

"Got that right. But at least you're okay in my book. Sure, I wouldn't mind you crashing here. It's not like neither of us have nothing better to do." The griffon replied. The two were unaware of Medusa's fixed smile.

'You have no idea...' Medusa thought deviously "Well, then I'll gladly take you up on your generous offer myself. You've already invited me in here, after all." Gilda frowned at Medusa.

"Yeah, but I only got the one bed. Sorry, but you're gonna have to sleep on the floor while Dust has the sofa. Don't exactly run a motel here, you know..." Gilda said matter-of-factly.

"I do not mind it in the slightest." Medusa said as she gave a curt and polite bow "Thank you for letting me stay here."

"Whatever..." Gilda said as she waved a claw. As lucky as she was to remain calm the whole time, she was troubled by what was to come if Medusa was actually serious about her ambition and wanting Lightning Dust to tag along whether she wanted to or not. She figured it was best to try and mingle with Medusa and stay on her good side if it meant keeping her entertained.
_____

Party blowers and cheers rang through the room in Applejack's barn as several ponies inside were having a moment of merriment in celebration of both Crona's arrival and Discord's aid in rescuing the pony folk in their time of need. While Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Crona were enjoying the party, her friends were busy having a conversation amongst themselves over how to sort out the issue with the reason behind the manticore attack and Crona's possession of Ragnarok.

"Okay..." Twilight said after taking a deep breath "As thrilled as I am for Ponyville's safety thanks to Crona-"

"And Discord." Discord interrupted smugly, earning a small glare from Twilight.

"It's going to be even harder to have Crona adjust to Ponyville, let alone Ragnarok, knowing that their black blood had almost cost the lives of innocent ponies," Twilight pointed out with mild anxiety, "If Princess Celestia found out about this, how do you suppose she would react to this?" Upon unconsciously mentioning the princess, Twilight's anxiety began to grow "Oh no...Even SHE wouldn't condone that type of action. What do we do?" She mewled as she shivered profusely. A orange hoof on her shoulder managed to calm her down a little.

"Simmer down, sugarcube. This is just as much our problem as it is yers." Applejack said comfortingly before looking serious, "This is a bit of a pickle we're in, though. Th' poor guy'll be chased outta town iffin' word got out that it was his blood that caused all this, an' we can't jus' relocate Crona since he's still adjustin' t' Ponyville."

"I can't believe how complicated this got in one day." Rainbow Dash complained "What's the plan to make sure Crona doesn't come off as a… a… pear… parry..." Rainbow Dash looked down in thought at the proper word she was searching for.

"Pariah?" Twilight guessed inquisitively.

"Yeah, what you said. There's gotta be something to make Ponyville look the other way." She looked over at Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Crona dancing together. The former was carefully assisting the sword pony as it tried to move properly in a dance "I mean, look at her. You think she'd be able to take being labeled as a freak?"

"As much as I'm uncomfortable with the situation myself, I, too, am open to suggestions." Rarity said as she donned a sympathetic look, "Who are we to look after the poor dear without a plan?"

"I'm certain we won't have to worry too much about the manticore's passing, what with everypony having a good time and all." Discord said, "The only thing that matters is having all of Ponyville cope with the fact that Crona's carrying a talking cyst around that shows itself at will." He said as a reddening bump began to grow on his forehead, popping and revealing a small Discord sticking out and cackling in a high-pitched voice.

"That's right..." Twilight said anxiously "We still have Ragnarok to deal with. Between his behavior and the rest of Ponyville reacting negatively to the most obscure happenings, we'll either have to work out a compromise with Ragnarok or show him to Ponyville for all to see and hope for positive feedback." She held a deep frown, "Worst case scenario, we're gonna be met with copious amounts of problems knowing the respective success rates of both plans..." She murmured bitterly.

"Poppycock." Applejack said with a confident smirk "Th' first plan's doable enough. We jus' gotta convince 'im real good is all."

"It would probably mean having to feed Ragnarok more...souls, wouldn't it?" Rarity said with a disgusted shudder "I'm still shaken from such a vile display, even from him." Applejack shook her head.

"No no no, not souls, Rarity. Jus' some food. We all know how much he loves t' be fed, so we could do that t' keep 'im occupied, or we could talk it out with Pinkie, Fluttershy an' Crona, too, since they're jus' as involved as we are."

"Here's hoping that jerky pimple would listen to us." Rainbow Dash said with a small scowl, "Something tells me he's just gonna mess it up for the heck of it. Besides, knowing the fact that he and Crona share the same body, it's gonna happen sooner or later, isn't it?"

"Good point..." Twilight murmured as she rubbed her chin with a forehoof "Let's just settle this while we have the time." She looked over to Discord, who had his eagle claw in a snapping gesture while smirking playfully.

"Three ponies and one demon sword coming right up." Discord quipped before he snapped his talons. In a flash of light, Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Crona had joined the group sitting at a table, the former pouting irritably.

"Hey! We were dancing!" Pinkie comically complained.

"Why are we sitting here all of the sudden?" Crona looked around before focusing on Discord, frowning at him "Discord, you could've warned me first. I don't know how to deal with sudden movements." The swordpony complained.

"It was easier that way." Discord shrugged his shoulders nonchalantly.

"We're sorry for disturbing you three, but we just needed to talk things over with you." Twilight said with a serious gaze, "We need a plan for Crona and Ragnarok to adjust to Ponyville without coming off as suspicious or threatening, given their earlier performance. We don't really have much to work with other than keeping Ragnarok dormant in public or having all of Ponyville get used to his appearance."

"Personally, I don't see the harm in the latter. After all, they've gotten used to me, haven't they?" Discord said encouragingly.

"Yes, but only because of your reckless mischief and the fact that ponies have been aware of you for the longest time." Twilight stated tersely, causing Discord to give off a mock frown.

"Um...Why don't we let Crona decide?" Fluttershy offered, looking to her left at Crona with a smile "After all, between Crona and Ragnarok, it falls on what they feel is the most comfortable."

"You're damn right it is!"

Much to the element bearers' dismay, Ragnarok erupted out of Crona's back and crossed his arms at the ponies. He completely ignored the many stares he was receiving from the other ponies.

"I'll admit, I was open to your offer of feeding me whenever I want, but that's not gonna stop me from staying inside of Crona all the time! I'd say Fluttershy's the smartest out of all of you." Ragnarok jibed, turning his head away in a snide fashion.

As much as Rainbow Dash wanted to knock Ragnarok upside the head, she realized that the demon sword had drawn the attention of everypony in Applejack's barn. Crona looked around at the crowd before developing the urge to hide.

Discord, for his part, acted quickly and directed his lion paw and eagle claw to Ragnarok with a look of feigned amusement "Ta-da~!" All of the ponies stared at Discord and murmured with looks of displeasure before going back and enjoying their party. The element bearers heaved sighs of relief while Crona tried to process what had just happened.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but nice save, Discord." Rainbow Dash said calmly, albeit begrudgingly.

"Well, you know me; appearances and whatnot." Discord replied before smirking coyly at the cyan pegasus "You're not the only one who can steal a show, you know." He savored the look in Rainbow Dash's narrowed eyes.

"Don't push it..." Rainbow Dash muttered in agitation.

"I don't get it." Crona turned to the others, "Do they all hate me? They all looked mad. What did I do wrong?"

"Nothing of the sort, darling." Rarity said with a reassuring smile "Let's just say that now you can walk around Ponyville without having to conceal Ragnarok." She gave a distasteful look at the demon sword "As bittersweet as that sounds."

"Bite me!" Ragnarok snapped.

"I still don't understand. What made them all look away like that? I thought something bad was about to happen to me." Crona said while looking down and grasping its left foreleg with its right hoof.

"Long story short," Applejack said in a straight tone "they thought that Ragnarok was Discord's doin'. That is, y'all was about t' be exposed until Discord swooped in an' made it look like he made Ragnarok come out."

"I have to say that it was a bold move on your part, Discord." Twilight said with a smile "I guess you aren't all bad." The draconequus laughed mirthfully.

"Oh, Twilight, since when was I ever-" He noticed all of the ponies shooting deadpan looks his way, save for Crona and Ragnarok "...I was gonna say prior to my reformation, but fine, give me the stink eye. See if I care." Discord looked away with a mock pout.

"Reformation?" Crona said "From what?"

"Remember our story when we used the elements on Discord?" Pinkie asked "He used to be the biggest meanie pants you'll ever see, and after we turned him into stone, Princess Celestia decided to free him and have Fluttershy make him one of the good guys!" Pinkie explained jubilantly.

"All he needed was a good friend to turn his life around." Fluttershy said warmly with a smile to match. Crona had a look of realization.

"Wow… So… Discord's kind of like me in a way." Crona said, earning the perplexed stares of the ponies and draconequus "I..." The swordpony hesitated before looking down "Back then, I was ordered around by Lady Medusa to eat plenty of souls and become a kishin. I had no control of myself, and even with Ragnarok, it was hard for me to deal with anything." Crona flashed another nostalgic smile "...And that's when Maka came along. She became my friend and helped guide me in the right direction."

"Not to mention she made me look like this!" Ragnarok chimed in, although irritably "I missed being big and powerful."

"I'd very much love to meet this Maka for myself, if she had indeed saved you from a life of misery." Rarity said cheerfully.

"Me too. She already seemed like a nice gal before." Applejack added.

"Not that it matters as much, but what's a kishin?" Rainbow Dash asked inquisitively "Doesn't sound very good if it means having to maintain a soul diet." She placed a hoof on her chest and stuck her tongue out as she made a gagging noise in disgust.

"I don't really know myself." Crona said truthfully "Lady Medusa just keeps mentioning it to herself when I'm around her sometimes. All she ever does is want me to kill things and eat souls."

"Okay, first off, how sick is your mother, and secondly, why even call her Lady Medusa when you have nothing to do with her anymore?" Rainbow Dash said incredulously.

"And what do souls taste like?" Pinkie asked, only to have her friends chorus her name impatiently. Discord simply hid his face while snickering.

"I guess it's just a habit with me. She was my mother, after all. I had no one else until Maka came into my life..." Crona looked down despondently.

"Hey! No frowny faces!" Pinkie said as she grasped Crona by the cheeks "We got a party to enjoy, and I can't have the guest of honor be down in the dumps." Pinkie smiled and hopped onto her hooves "Now let's go dance some more. It's a surefire way to make you feel loads better!"

Crona looked over at Fluttershy, and after sharing a smile, the two rose from their seats and followed Pinkie onto the dance floor, while Ragnarok grew bored to the point of sinking back into the swordpony's body. Discord stroked his goatee as he watched them go.

'Wonder how Celestia's doing on her end. Perhaps I'll hit her up when I'm not busy...' Discord thought to himself before he donned a smile and snapped his talons, appearing in a disco suit "If ya can't beat 'em, join 'em! The dance floor beckons!" He said with a chortle as he flew after the others. The rest of the group followed suit, wanting to contribute into making Crona feel welcome, even if their friend had a dark past.
_____

Later that night, Fluttershy, Discord, and Crona were retreating back to the cottage after an exuberant party thrown by Pinkie Pie. Much to Fluttershy's satisfaction, Crona was seen with a small, but bright smile on its face. Discord, for his part, was equally satisfied in his own way as he hovered over the two ponies.

"Another excellent party, if I do say so myself. I managed to have all the fun I want and nopony bellyached about it too much." Discord said as he examined his eagle claw while his lion paw rested on his hip.

"It really was fun." Crona hung its head, though kept its smile "I never thought Pinkie would even throw a party for me."

"I'm glad you're both happy." Fluttershy said warmly, "Maybe tomorrow will be no different from today."

"Am I hearing a wish for time to stand still?" Discord quipped "Cuz I can do it, you know..."

"Now, Discord, you shouldn't joke like that." Fluttershy chided softly, though she almost laughed at his joke, "Besides, I'd like for you to be there for Crona when we'll be taking care of the animals tomorrow."

"You mean those animals you were feeding?" Crona asked.

"That's right. I'm sure they'll just love you when you get to know them." Fluttershy looked over at Crona, "Maybe you'd like to keep one of them as a pet." She said as she and the group reached the door to her cottage. Fluttershy opened it up and allowed for the three to step inside.

"I don't know if I could handle keeping a pet. I never had one before." Crona said as it looked around the living room at the many birdhouses "Besides, I don't think I'm ready to care for any animals just yet."

"You will in time. We'll be there to help you." She looked up at Discord "Won't we, Discord?"

"Oh, of course. I wouldn't dream of leading you astray, dear Crona." Discord grinned exuberantly and held out a claw "What do you say? Friends?" He watched as Crona eyed Discord's claw carefully and slowly inched a foreleg to meet one of its talons. The draconequus merely stared blankly at the gesture before shrugging "Eh, close enough." Fluttershy giggled before she ended up yawning.

"Oh my...Perhaps it is getting late. Why don't we all retire for the night?" Fluttershy proposed to her friends.

"But...where will I sleep?" Crona asked with a tilted head. Fluttershy donned a friendly smile.

"You can sleep with me if you want. I don't mind at all." She watched as Crona inched away and began to blush profusely.

"I never actually slept with someone other than Ragnarok before..." Crona said in embarrassment.

"I don't mind in the slightest. If you're not comfortable, you can always have my bed while I sleep on the sofa with Discord." Fluttershy offered.

"Oh, say yes, dear Crona!" Discord piped up as he swooped Fluttershy off her feet and held her close, nuzzling her cheek with a smile, "Fluttershy here makes for a good teddy bear whenever I get the chance to sleep with her." Crona blinked at the display of affection before looking down and fidgeting its forehooves.

"Well, I don't feel happy kicking Fluttershy out of her bed, and she's already done so much for me, so maybe I'll..." Crona blushed again, "I'll try and sleep with her."

"So much for having my good teddy bear." Discord said in disappointment as he set down Fluttershy, "Looks like I'll have to improvise." He snapped his talons and a beat-up plushie of himself appeared in the grasp of his lion paw, as well as a nightcap on his head. "Hope you two have a good sleep." The draconequus hovered towards the sofa and coiled himself up before laying upside down on it, closing his eyes with a content sigh.

"We should get going, too." Fluttershy said as she trotted towards the stairs "Follow me, Crona. My bedroom's upstairs." The two ponies went up the stairs and Crona was led to a bedroom that held a fireplace, and some bird nests on the ceiling beams. There was a chest at the end of a comfortable looking bed, to which Crona felt drowsy by just looking at it. Fluttershy caught Crona rubbing its eyes and smiled "I can see you're pretty tired. Let's get you tucked in." She said as she guided the swordpony towards the bed.

Fluttershy grabbed the blanket with her teeth and moved it out for the two to get on and tuck themselves in. Crona felt more relaxed than ever after feeling the plush mattress on its back, humming pleasantly as it wriggled deeper into the sheets.

"Good night, Crona. I hope you sleep well." Fluttershy whispered before shutting her eyes.

"Good night, Fluttershy..." Crona smiled at the gesture, then hesitantly snuggled closer to Fluttershy, who gently embraced the swordpony as its head rested against her chest. As seconds passed, Crona saw fit to shut its eyes and drift off to sleep without a problem.

Fluttershy had never been so happy to care for a pony in need. Despite what had happened, she managed to get her wish.

End of Chapter 10

Interlude Chapter

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Interlude Chapter

Lord Death's Hidden Technique! Crona gets a second chance?

Out in a vast wasteland laid a city. A large and architecturally eccentric mass of buildings known as Death City. At the top of it rested the pinnacle of the city known as Death's Weapon Meister Academy. A place where children are taught to become meisters to defend the world and reap evil souls to turn their weapons into death scythes. Many students hone their skills and grow up to be expert warriors to their academy's cause. One of the best students, however, had the worst day...

A girl wearing a black coat and a plaid skirt ran in the hallway with her tears marking a trail behind her while carrying a wrapped blanket. She had blonde hair with two ponytails that flowed with the speed she was going.

Catching up behind her was a boy with white hair, wearing a yellow and black jacket and a headband. On top of said headband was a sticker that said 'Soul', and an emblem with a set of teeth-bearing lips with the word 'Eat' shown in an endpoint pattern. It didn't show on his face, but he was entirely concerned as he pursued the girl.

"Maka, come back! You shouldn't be worked up over this!" He called out.

His words went ignored as Maka continued to run. She couldn't believe what had happened, and she tried hard not to remember what was said and done earlier.
_____

Maka had just came back to Death City from defeating the kishin Asura, feeling invigorated from her victory and sharing it with her friends. She wanted to see if her friend Crona was recovering from their fight against Medusa. She walked with Soul on her way to the infirmary, eager to check on Crona and possibly talk about what to do next now that the kishin was defeated.

As she reached the door down the hall, she noticed a little girl with brown hair walk out, and smiled at Maka the moment she laid eyes on her.

"Hello!" She waved happily. This caught Maka's attention as she approached her.

"Hello, Rachel. I see you're doing fine!" She returned the greeting, smiling back at the little girl. Rachel nodded.

"Mhm. Dr. Stein said that I was healthy enough to go back to my mommy and daddy! Ms. Marie and Ms. Azusa were gonna take me home, but I wanted to thank you for helping me!" She said as she looked up at Maka.

"It was nothing, kid." Soul walked up to his meister's side and smirked "Maka here is just an experienced meister, and I'm lucky to be her partner." He laid a friendly jab on Maka's shoulder, "Pretty strong with that punch of hers, too. Didn't think it'd be enough to take down the kishin." Maka lightly blushed and looked away

"Stop it, Soul." She looked back at Rachel "It really is nice to see you again. I was just on my way to see Dr. Stein and Crona!"

"Crona?" Rachel blinked "You mean..." She paused, then looked down in thought "That pink-haired person?" Rachel guessed.

"That's the one!" Maka nodded.

"I haven't really seen that person. That and Dr. Stein looked sad when I asked about Crona." Rachel said innocently with a frown. This made Maka curious.

'That seems unlike Dr. Stein...Why would he act like that...Unless...' Her eyes widened for a moment before she shook off her grave thought. If there's anything she knew about the academy's staff, it was that Dr. Stein was both the ultimate meister, and one of the most brilliant scientific minds in existence. He managed to save Soul, even though he has a small trace of Crona's black blood.

The infirmary door opened to show a woman with golden hair, wearing a black outfit and a black eyepatch to compliment her attire. As she walked out the door, she noticed Maka and smiled warmly.

"Oh, hello there, Maka. Congratulations on taking care of the kishin!" She said cheerfully. Maka nodded and returned the smile.

"Hello, Miss Marie. I was just about to make my way into the infirmary to see Crona. May I step inside please?" She asked politely. Maka noticed the look on Marie's expression shift from kind to bereft, causing herself to grow confused.
_____

Maka did not stop, nor did she wish to. She was already close to reaching Lord Death's halls. After bursting through the doors and running under each guillotine arch, she finally reached the center of the room. The walls and ceiling were vividly similar to that of a bright sky, save for the windows, and the ground decorated with many crosses surrounding the platform containing Lord Death himself. She caught her breath while holding the blanket in her hands tightly as more tears streamed down her eyes. The large shroud of darkness containing a kid-friendly skull mask looked down at the worn meister.

"Maka? This was an unexpected visit." Lord Death said in a jovial tone as he tilted himself to the side, "Are you trying to get your exercise by running around the academy?" He asked absentmindedly. Eventually, Soul caught up to Maka in Lord Death's room and caught his breath before he spoke up.

"Lord Death, we can explain. It's just something that has to do with-"

"Crona." Maka interrupted as she brought her head up to face the grim reaper, "Please, Lord Death, can't you do something to bring Crona back?" She asked with a look of sheer sadness. Lord Death stared ominously at the blanket resting in Maka's arms, feeling two familiar presences inside of it.

"...I see. So that's why you've ran all the way here." He said in a serious tone. Lord Death turned around and drifted away, "Maka, you realize that there isn't much I can do about what you're asking of me. This is a very serious matter, but not something that you should dwell on."

"But Crona's our friend!" Maka cried indignantly "If it weren't for Crona, I-" She choked up as she hung her head, staring down at her blanket with trembling pupils, "I wouldn't have made it..." Maka whispered.

'...Maka...' Soul frowned at Maka's sadness, feeling sorry for losing a friend to Medusa. Lord Death turned to face Maka.

"Be that as it may, my point stands. I'm sorry, Maka, but it cannot be done. I can't bring Crona, or Ragnarok back into this world. It wouldn't be right at all." Two large hands popped out of his body in a shrugging motion "Besides, I doubt you'd want a zombie living in your home, right?" He said in a comedic fashion.
_____

In another part of the DWMA, zombie professor Sid Barett sneezed while he was giving a lecture to his students.
_____

"Please, Lord Death! There has to be a way..." Maka furrowed her brow despite her sadness. She carefully unraveled the blanket in her arms to reveal two glowing wisps, one blue and one red. Her eyes leaked more tears as she stared at them 'Crona...You shouldn't have gone out like that. You had so much to live for...' Lord Death had one of his large hands under his supposed chin.

"You're really not going let this one go so easily, are you? Is there any other way I can convince you about this?" Maka tightened her grip on the souls in response, making the grim reaper sigh "It seems we may be at an impasse..." There were footsteps heard in the hall's corridor, and the three looked ahead to see two men running towards the platform.

One man had red hair and a black suit with a cross-shaped tie. A serious expression was seen on his face. The other was a man with glasses and a large screw lodged in his head. He had noticeable stitches on his face, as well as his lab coat, though his expression was hidden beneath his glasses.

"Ah, Spirit and Stein! Good to see you both. Looks like we have a full house, don't we?" Lord Death quipped lightheartedly.

"We came after we heard the news..." Spirit looked down at Maka with concern "Maka, why would you do such a thing? You know this is overstepping your bounds as a meister..."

"Who cares what you think!?" Maka snapped harshly, not facing her detestable father. She looked down at her souls, "I came home from my fight and expected to see Crona in good health. I just can't believe that this happened..."

"I'm sorry you had to hear about this, Maka." Stein said as he held up his arms "I've done all I could, but as it turned out, Crona was wounded beyond comprehension, Medusa's blow had proved to be fatal. There was no point in leaving a corpse for you to look at, so I made it to where both Crona and Ragnarok would reside as souls. I never expected you to take it so hard..."

"Look, Maka," Soul held out a hand to Maka, "It's not worth it to act like this. You know that. Wouldn't Crona think the same way?" He asked, hoping to reach his meister. Maka didn't face her weapon as she looked up at Lord Death.

"I know I'm breaking a rule right now, but this isn't fair to Crona!" She said as she stood her ground, "Before we've even met, Crona had to go through so much suffering under Medusa! I can't in good conscience leave one of my friends behind like this!" She got on her knees, much to the surprise of the trio behind her and she tried her best to bow while holding the souls in her hands "I beg of you, Lord Death. There has to be another way out of this. I only want Crona to live on in a peaceful life. Can't you do that?"

There was silence in the room. Soul and Spirit shared looks of unease over the possibly rising tension between Maka and Lord Death, whereas Stein's and Lord Death's expressions remained unreadable.

"There is...one way."

Maka instantly lifted her head with a surprised expression at the unexpected response; the others, saved for Stein, had followed suit "Really? There is!?" Maka asked hopefully. Lord Death held up his hands in a placating motion.

"Now before you go and peg this as an attempt to bring Crona back into this world, it isn't." Maka's reinvigorated spirits had wavered from his statement "But I can guarantee that Crona will live on. If you may hand me the souls of Crona and Ragnarok, I'll demonstrate what I'm speaking of..."

"You promise? Crona will live on?" Maka stared up at Lord Death cautiously.

'I hope Lord Death isn't going to pull a fast one. I can't risk Maka feeling betrayed...' Spirit stifled a light grunt. While he was well-aware of Maka's disdain towards him, he still cared about his daughter no matter what.

"What are you gonna do? Is this something you haven't done in a while?" Soul said with a quizzical glance towards the grim reaper. Lord Death chuckled.

"You catch on well, Soul. I see that your study sessions with Maka have paid off!" He ignored Soul's scowl from his remark and focused on the meister in front of him "Now, will you hand me the souls?"

Maka hesitated, but wordlessly complied with Lord Death's request, placing the two souls in the palms of his large hands. He held them at a flat level, and he turned to present them at his mirror. The mirror had shined briefly before glowing and covering the once-dark lense into a bright light. As it happened, the two souls in Lord Death's hands levitated into the air before shooting inside of the mirror at bullet speed, leaving no trace behind. From there, the brightness had receded as the mirror went back to its former state. Lord Death turned back to face the group and gave a curt bounce after his actions.

"All done!" He chirped.

"Lord Death? What did you do?" Maka was surprised and intrigued.

"I'm curious, too. Did you send them both to heaven or something?" Soul cocked his head to the side as his hands rested in his pockets. Lord Death scratched the back of his head

"Well, not exactly, but I did send their souls someplace beyond my trusty mirror. They'll be drifting about in an unknown void for a short period before they'll finally take refuge in a new world to call their own!"

"Seriously?" Soul arched an eyebrow "You’re capable of doing that?" From behind him, Stein smirked after Soul's question.

"Lord Death has several techniques that are unknown to the students in the academy. It shouldn't be surprising considering this is the grim reaper we're talking about."

"So you've actually done it?" Maka clutched the blanket in her hands "You let Crona and Ragnarok be able to live on?" She asked as a smile grew on her face. Lord Death laughed.

"Well, even if I'm out of my power here, I still owe you a favor for taking care of the Kishin and stopping the world from going mad. Consider this a token of gratitude for your hard work!" He said as he gave the young meister a thumbs up.

Maka felt like hugging Lord Death, but decided to take a deep breath and wipe away her tears. She then gave a polite bow to him.

“Thank you so much for this, Lord Death. You don’t know how much it means to me.” Maka said as she looked up with a bright and grateful smile. Lord Death gave a nod.

“The pleasure is all mine. Just enjoy some R&R with your friends. You’ve earned it!” He replied cheerfully, though he inwardly felt troubled, ‘Here’s hoping I won’t receive any harsh callbacks from the world they’ll land in…’ The grim reaper waved his hand in a friendly shooing motion, “Now, off you go. Wouldn’t want to waste anymore time in here.” Maka took the hint and turned to leave the hall with Soul, but stopped to look back

“Before I go…” Lord Death stared at Maka’s pensive glance “Seeing as how you were able to perform that trick with your mirror, would it be possible to reach any other world Crona and Ragnarok could land in?” Lord Death was lucky not to flinch after the question.

‘Her aptitude is nearly immeasurable! No wonder she fended off the kishin alone…’ He held up a large hand “I can’t exactly guarantee that. For all we know, their souls haven’t found the right place just yet. These things take time, you know.”

“Of course." Maka felt slightly guilty before she nodded "Thanks for the help!” She gave off a wave before she ran off with Soul. The only ones who didn’t leave were Spirit and Stein. The former looking suspicious while the latter intrigued, his glasses giving off a slight gleam of light while his right hand rested on his chin. The silence hung in the room before Spirit saw fit to break it, his eyes narrowed.

“What did you really do, Lord Death? Normally, I’m not one to question your actions, but I don’t want to find out that my daughter’s been lied to.” Spirit warned. Stein turned the large screw on his head as it made a clicking sound similar to a wind-up toy.

“I’m also curious about your little trick myself. I know you’re the embodiment of death, but I never thought that you would be connected with worlds other than our own. You’ve got a lot of secrets kept behind that mask of yours…” Lord Death turned to Spirit first, feeling obligated to answer him and put his mind at ease.

“Spirit, trust me when I’ve actually obliged to your daughter’s wish with my suggested alternative.” He then faced both Spirit and Stein “As for what you’ve just witnessed…yes, it has been almost a thousand years since I’ve performed such a skill.” Lord Death stated seriously “I’m glad that I haven’t abused it for so long here. My influence as the lord of death carries farther than any of you may realize, but that stays between us.”

“You have our word," Stein smirked "but not only do you have to deal with whatever world Crona and Ragnarok happen to stumble in, but Maka as well, seeing as how eager she is to see how her friend is doing once they’re alive.” Lord Death hung his head in defeat, his body slumping forward.

“I have to admit that for a meister her age, she’s quite perceptive. She really does take after her mother!” He said his last sentence incredulously.

“I’m glad she managed to come so far…” Spirit grinned proudly. There was a pause before he found himself at a distant part of the platform away from Lord Death and Stein, sobbing in a corner “If only she could forgive me for what I’ve put her through! Maka~!” Lord Death and Stein sweatdropped at his sudden shift of emotion.

“Well, regardless of what has transpired," Lord Death turned to Stein, "only time will tell when Crona and Ragnarok manage to find their new home. Before that time comes, we’ll just have to move on and carry out the cause of our beloved academy.”

“Just so we’re clear..." Stein stared at Lord Death, then pointed a finger with a seemingly skeptical look behind his glasses "You’re certain they won’t end up in an entirely hellbound world, right?” Lord narrowed his eyes, feeling offended despite being teased by one of his best meisters.

“The audacity, Stein! I would never do such a thing!” He then pointed a finger with a wink “In fact, I’ve sent them to a world that I, myself, have walked in for the longest time other than this one.” He said confidently.

“Oh?" Stein tilted his head "And where would that be?” He said, his scientific curiosity growing at the possibilities of a new world. Sadly for him, Lord Death waved a large hand

“Well, I don’t think it’d be right for me to show you before the others. I’ll just wait until I get a connection and I’ll call you all in for a meeting when the timing’s right. Just be on your way and get back to your own devices until then.” He turned over to the still-sobbing Spirit and gave a look of pity and disappointment “Erm, and take Spirit with you…”

“Of course.” Stein gave a curt nod, then walked over and grabbed Spirit by the back of his collar, dragging him off as he walked down the corridor leading to the room’s entrance while the death scythe continued to mourn his poor relationship with his daughter.

When Lord Death was by himself, he let out a sigh, and looked back at his mirror, feeling nervous for the first time in a while.

“I’m happy to help my students and all, but Maka really asked a lot from me to perform my hidden reincarnation ability…I just hope they won’t be angry with me over this.” For the first time, Lord Death carried a troubled look on his face “Especially not her…Oh dear…”

End of Interlude

Chapter 11

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Chapter 11

Clipping the Wings! Backed into a Corner?

Lightning Dust had slept soundly on the sofa in Gilda's living room while the window above it was showing a clear view of the moon, which cast a trail of moonlight into the living room down to the floor as the opal pegasus shifted in her sleep. She made it her goal to head out of Gilda's house first thing in the morning to avoid anymore seemingly scientific banter and talk of partnership towards a complete stranger, especially one as creepy as Medusa.

Before she even decided on sleeping at her house, she could only wonder about the circumstances of how Gilda and Medusa have met. Lightning Dust wasn't entirely fond of her only friend actually leaving her in the dark and having her so-called assistant doing the talking. She thought it'd be best to prod her friend for more answers once they have some time alone later tomorrow.

As she was sleeping, however, a shadow slowly emerged from the darkness and approached the slumbering pony without making a sound. It closed in on Lightning Dust with a malicious air and an active tendril slowly advancing towards her mouth. The shadow had a wide and toothy grin before it was about to finish the job...
_____

Crona instantly rose from Fluttershy's bed with a gasp, hyperventilating with widened eyes as it held the covers tightly. A chill traveled down its spine as it tried to forget what could have been a nasty nightmare.

Looking outside the window, the swordpony noticed it was morning, then looked down at the bed to see that Fluttershy was gone. Crona took a deep breath to regain its composure as it went to leave the bed.

"Crona?"

The ebony pony yelped in surprise upon hearing its name to see Fluttershy at the door looking concerned.

"Oh my, I'm sorry...I was just about to wake you up." Fluttershy said penitently.

"No, it's okay. I woke up myself." Crona said with a sigh as it rose from the bed and rubbed its eyes before approaching Fluttershy.

"Well, I hope you're hungry. Breakfast is waiting for you downstairs." Fluttershy said with a smile before she turned and left the room. Crona just stood there and looked back at the bed, contemplating on what might happen in the future before following Fluttershy outside of the room.

As they went downstairs, the scent of a good meal wafted in Crona's nostrils while it looked around at the many animals staring back with intrigue, with the exception of Angel, who kept a wary eye on Crona despite being spooked by Ragnarok the other day.

The dining room was as clean as ever, and the table was seen with a jar of strawberry jam and some silverware. When Crona sat itself down on the chair, it finally noticed something amiss while Fluttershy was preparing a breakfast consisting of toast and orange juice.

"Where's Discord? Shouldn't he be here with us?" Crona asked. Fluttershy trotted towards the table, balancing one plate on her head and another on her back.

"I don't know, really. Discord's usually out and about sometimes, not that I don't mind it. We should be happy he's even reformed for us." Fluttershy said as she carefully set the plat on her head down onto the table, then doing the same with the second plate "I hope you and Ragnarok like the food I've prepared. There's not much here at the moment, but we'll go shopping some time tomorrow."

"Thank you, Fluttershy." Crona responded politely before nibbling on a piece of toast. Ragnarok sprung out of his master's back and stretched his arms.

"Haven't had good sleep like that in ages." He then noticed the food on the table and showed his teeth in a voracious grin "Alright, food!" Ragnarok said as he lapped up his pieces of toast in one lick and chewed loudly.

Fluttershy wasn't entirely pleased with Ragnarok's table manners, but she should at least take comfort in the fact that she was caring for a human-turned-pony from a far away world. She hoped that Crona's stay in Equestria, her cottage especially, would be as enjoyable as possible, even if she had the help of her friends to make it happen. Fluttershy donned an embarrassed smile over Ragnarok's poor eating habits before looking over at Crona.

"I'll be sure to give you seconds if you're still hungry. Perhaps you can help me with the animals later, if that's alright with you." Fluttershy said, to which Crona blinked at Fluttershy.

"You think I'll do well with them? I don't know if they're used to me yet." Crona said feebly.

"It's alright. I'll be at your side, so you'll be fine." Fluttershy assured with a warm smile "I'll walk you through what you need to do, and soon enough, it'll be easy for you in the future."

"Why do we need to feed animals when we need to be fed, too? Are we getting paid for this, or something?" Ragnarok asked rudely.

"Umm...Well...Not really. I just enjoy caring for all the animals is all." Fluttershy replied as she looked over at the docile creatures in her living room "It is my special talent, after all, and I really like my job."

"So you do all of this without getting paid? How stupid are you?" Ragnarok spat, to which Fluttershy recoiled and looked down with a hurt expression. Crona flinched and instantly rose from its chair to comfort Fluttershy frantically.

"I-I'm sorry! Ragnarok didn't mean that! Your job's as nice as you!" Crona quickly said, causing Fluttershy to look up at the swordpony in mild surprise before giving a thin smile.

"It's no trouble, Crona. I just have to get used to the way Ragnarok acts the same way you have. Just finish your food and you can meet me outside." Fluttershy said as she went into the kitchen and looked for her many bags of animal feed.

"So she honestly spends her time caring for animals? Who has time for all of that?" Ragnarok whispered.

"I don't see the problem with it. Fluttershy cared for us, didn't she?" Crona stifled a pained moan when Ragnarok gave his master a noogie with both paws in anger.

"I'm not an animal, you moron!"
______

Celestia trotted along the halls by herself, thinking about what to do for the time being before it was appropriate for her to break the news to Crona. She felt that her private matter would go along swimmingly, but much to her chagrin, there was more to Crona's appearance in Equestria than what she had thought. A sigh escaped her lips as she pondered the best way to explain to Crona about what she had gathered...

"Sister?"

The solar princess stopped to hear a voice behind her, and noticed a midnight blue alicorn smaller than her. Her mane and tail were even similar to Celestia's, only it was a flowing ocean of stars. She wore an onyx chestplate and tiara, ice blue shoes, and her cutie mark consisted of a crescent moon surrounded by blackness.

"You seem troubled. Are you still on about what you've revealed to me the other day?" She asked in concern.

"Indeed it is, Luna. I'm at a loss for what to do about Crona once the time comes." Celestia said as she shook her head slowly "All I can hope for is that Twilight and her friends make it to where Crona is comfortable enough to bear the news regarding to returning to Death City."

"Ah, yes. I've yet to look into little Crona's mind for myself. A pity that I wasn't around to catch a glimpse of that pony with my own eyes." Luna nodded in confirmation before looking at Celestia "Perhaps you require my assistance on the matter? How can I be of service pertaining to your situation?"

"You needn't fuss about it, Luna; the issue's been slightly resolved, albeit in a less satisfactory manner. It all depends on how Crona takes the news." Celestia closed her eyes "But we'll need some time before we arrange another meeting."

"I'm sure you can squeeze one into your tight schedule."

Celestia and Luna perked up at the male voice that echoed in the halls before a light flashed above them and faded to reveal a floating Discord holding a clipboard, reading it with a feigned expression of boredom behind a pair of glasses.

"Of course, I wouldn't want to be evil and cut into your precious cake time. We all know how much you love your cake, Celly." Discord said before sneaking in a smile, much to the displeasure of the white alicorn below her. Meanwhile, Luna stifled a giggle while covering her mouth with a hoof.

"That was uncalled for, Discord. Shouldn't you be back with Fluttershy looking after Crona?" Celestia asked.

"Why do you think I'm here?" Discord replied as his clipboard and glasses vanished into thin air "I figured you wouldn't mind a little info swap with Yours Truly revolving around our new guest. You don't mind, do you?" Discord asked innocently, although his eyes had deeper intentions hidden within. Celestia and Luna had both managed to catch on before the former nodded.

"Not at all. We'll converse in the throne room." Celestia said curtly before the trio made for the throne room in silence. After reaching the large doors leading to their destination, they opened them and went inside, making sure that nopony was around. Luna then shut the doors behind her before looking up at Discord.

"This isn't like you to be so direct with certain issues, Discord. What do you have to share with us?" Luna asked, to which the draconequus smirked and wiggled a talon.

"I believe the saying goes 'Ladies first', if I recall." He then turned to Celestia, raising an expectant eyebrow "Celestia, if you will?"

"Regarding today? Well, I've managed to make contact with the one responsible for sending Crona into Equestria. It really is none other than Lord Death himself." Discord and Luna's eyes widened.

"The Lord Death? Surely, you jest, sister!" Luna exclaimed in shock.

"It's all true. And the worst part is that Crona and Ragnarok's return to their original world-"

"Wait, wait, wait, wait, back up for a moment." Discord said as he tilted his head at Celestia "Since when did you know about Ragnarok?"

"I'll admit that it wasn't when I first met Crona, but rather from what I gathered from Lord Death himself." Celestia shook her head "I've never imagined two different beings sharing the same body; and with tainted blood no less. The explanation was even more gruesome to hear."

"Oh, you're referring to that Medusa character? I'd say we're lucky if we don't find her here." Discord said with a laidback grin "I mean, it's not like some divine force would manage to bring her here for Crona to try and settle the score, right?"
_____

Back in Ponyville, a zebracorn wearing a top hat let off a sneeze while fiddling with an old typewriter in his house.
_____

"Be that as it may, it doesn't change the fact that Crona and Ragnarok are unable to go back to their own world." Celestia looked saddened as she hung her head "It pains me to have them remain in Equestria, far away from their old friends and without any hope of return." she said morosely "As I've mentioned before, I dread the moment where I'll have to break the news to them."

"Don't fret, sister. Remember that we're at your side. I still need to make contact with Crona myself, after all." Luna said with an encouraging smile, to which her sister reciprocated. Discord stroked his goatee in thought.

"Say, you still have that old mirror of yours in your room, right? Was that how you made contact with Lord Death?" Discord asked inquisitively. Celestia gave a curt nod in response "Why not ease Crona's - and maybe Ragnarok's - spirits by allowing them access to your mirror? Maybe that should cushion the blow for when you see them again." Celestia blinked before smiling at Discord.

"It's funny you say that, really. Lord Death mentioned a promise of letting his star pupil do the same thing." Her smile wavered "Hopefully, it'll be enough for them."

"Hey, we'll never know until we try, correct?" Discord asked rhetorically before laying back in the air with his claws behind his head "And besides, better sooner than never. You wouldn't want to stretch things out too much, do you?"

"You know, Discord. While Celestia has been rather gratuitous with her information, you've yet to share yours? How are Crona and Ragnarok faring in Ponyville?" Luna piped up curiously, to which Discord's expression slightly shifted.

"Oh yeah, I forgot..." Discord then got up from his resting position and rubbed the back of his head "You said that Lord Death filled you in on Crona's capabilities, right? Well, the funny thing about that is..."
_____

"Black blood? Crona has black blood?" Spike asked with a bemused expression. He was slightly sore at Twilight and her friends having a party without him the other day, but what he had been shared with today has piqued his curiosity, especially since it involved the swordpony in question.

"That's right, Spike." Twilight replied as she went through a book as she sat on her sofa "Crona has a special black blood that's capable of certain abilities that could prove harmful to other ponies if they were to manifest it into their own system. Not to mention there's this intriguing, but rude creature named Ragnarok who lives inside of Crona's body." Spike's eyes widened before he bared his teeth in a shudder.

"That's just too creepy...and Crona's afraid of me because I bring out some unpleasant memories? Talk about weird." Spike said as he scratched his head.

"I know this might be a lot to take in, but with enough time and effort, maybe Crona will be able to adjust to you. We just need to take this one step at a time." Twilight said reassuringly "That is, if Princess Celestia still hasn't managed to find a way to send Crona and Ragnarok home."

"When do you think that'll be?" Spike asked.

"I'm not so sure, Spike. Things like this can take long periods of time." Twilight said before smiling "But it's more than enough to make sure Crona and Ragnarok enjoy themselves." Her smile wavered "Or at least Crona, if it's not so difficult." Her ear twitched as she heard the library's front door open to reveal a stressed out pink mare with a blonde mane and a flower cutie mark. She was seen with a saddlebag bearing a flower pattern.

"Twilight? Do you have any books on stress relief, by any chance?" She asked anxiously, to which Twilight got up from her seat, but not before closing her book with a bookmark.

"Certainly, Lily." She sifted through her shelves with a concerned frown "This isn't like you to come to the library looking for stress relief. Haven't you been practicing your breathing exercises and enjoying some time at the spa?"

"Those can only work for so long with what Daisy and I are dealing with at the moment." Lily said as her ears folded back.

"Daisy, too? What's wrong?" Twilight said, momentarily looking back at Lily with interest. The flower mare merely took a deep breath before explaining.

"It's just, Roseluck left for Griffhala on a small sightseeing trip, promising to come back two days ago. Needless to say, we're getting worried she might be caught up in some nasty business that might delay her return..."

"Oh, that is worrying news." Twilight replied in comprehension before going back to her bookshelves "I hope she'll be fine myself." After a short time, she managed to pull out a blue book with a confident smile, levitating it towards Lily's saddlebag "Here you go; Inner Calm's guide to Serenity. I hope things work out well for you and Daisy."

"I just want Roseluck to come back to Ponyville safe and sound. Her safety's all that matters to us. Thanks for the book, Twilight." Lily said before she made her way out, trying out her breathing exercises to ease her current mood.

"Wow...So much has been happening recently. Crona coming to Ponyville, Roseluck turning up missing, and didn't you mention a manticore attacking in town the other day?"

"Yes. That was when we assessed the black blood's power for ourselves. I'm sure it's the last time we'll be met with something like that, so now we can focus our efforts on Crona when we get the time."
_____

Lightning Dust stirred from her slumber with a groggy moan as she rubbed her eyes with a hoof. She got up and began to stretch her limbs, letting off a loud yawn while doing so. It might not be a luxurious experience, but it was satisfying to get some sleep on a nice couch once in a while. She looked down on the floor to see that Medusa was sleeping contently herself, frowning at her as she laid down.

'It's about time I go find Gilda, talk it over, and ditch this weirdo. The sooner the better.' Lightning Dust quietly hovered into the air and glided towards Gilda's room, finding the griffon on her own messy bed. She nudged Gilda awake, much to her friend's displeasure upon waking up, and whispered to her with a serious expression.

"Sorry, Gilda, but this is me saying that I don't want any part of all this junk. I don't know your relationship is with that scientist, but I have other places to be, and I sure as hay don't wanna be anywhere near her right now." Lightning Dust, feeling accomplished by her explanation, went to go leave, only to see Gilda's bitter gaze be replaced with one with mild worry.

"You're choosing to bail at sunrise?" Gilda hissed "Lightning, I know she can be creepy, but you can't just ditch me like this. I came to you for a reason!"

"What reason!?" Lightning Dust hissed back "All you've done was hang around that other pony like she matters to you while beating around the bush! I wanna know what made you feel the need to come to me like this, let alone with some crackpot and her unreachable dreams!"

"It's...It's hard to explain, alright?" Gilda shifted up to sit on her bed, with Lightning Dust joining her "I just don't wanna lose you like this, and there's more to this Medusa than you realize. This is really uncool for me to ask, but you gotta bear with me on this." Lightning Dust stared at Gilda and her uncharacteristically pleading glance for a moment before taking a deep breath.

"Alright, Gilda, I'll do it for you. But that doesn't mean I'll be willing to dive head first into this 'project' like I would my usual performance tricks; I got plenty of ways to spend my time, and this isn't one of them." Lightning Dust said reluctantly, somehow eliciting a sigh of relief from Gilda.

"Thanks...Maybe I can try and convince her to find somepony else so you won't have to deal with this whole thing." Gilda replied softly, satisfied with her friend's answer.

"Oh, that won't be necessary, Gilda."

The cheerful voice sent chills down Gilda and Lightning Dust, and they both turned to see Medusa smiling at them at the door, wide awake and with mischievous eyes. What seemed off to both of them was Medusa's forelegs: Both of them were completely bare, without the swirling snake tattoos that formerly took up most of her fur.

"M-Medusa? You're up early..." Gilda said, trying to keep calm in the ominous presence in front of her. Medusa merely looked away innocently, her smile refusing to leave.

"I can be pretty manageable with my sleeping schedule sometimes. But I digress. I'm glad that you two are up as well. Perhaps now we can get on with business over breakfast, provided I have your rapt attention..." Medusa said as she shifted her eyes towards her soon-to-be cohorts.

"Okay, but can you give us a minute here? We were kind of in the middle of something." Gilda said, trying to urge Medusa to leave her room without appearing suspicious.

"Whatever you have to say to Lightning Dust, you can say to me, Gilda. After all, we're all in this together, aren't we?" Medusa said nonchalantly. Her words irritated Lightning Dust as she rose from Gilda's bed.

"Hey! I never agreed to your little science venture, and you got another thing coming to think I'll just work with you flat out!" She snapped defensively, to which Gilda flinched and darted her head up at the opal pegasus.

"Lightning, reel it back a bit, would ya? We gotta be cool about this..." Gilda said.

"Be cool about what, Gilda? It's obvious that this earth pony's so demented to assume that I agreed to be her lackey overnight! I'm sorry, but this is where I bail." She landed on the floor and trotted towards the door, where Medusa stood in front of her, smile and all.

"I'd reconsider your choice of words, if I were you. You think me to be presumptuous in my claims, but you'll find that leaving here won't be so easy..." Her quip earned a forceful nudge from Lightning Dust as she moved past her.

"Watch me." She spat as she moved away. When she made it into the living room, she went to reach for the door, only to stop when an uncomfortable feeling welled inside her body "Huh?" Lightning Dust looked down at her chest "What the...?" She grunted when she felt a small twinge of pain, and she noticed a wide lump grow from her chest and slithered around her body, receding into the lower region of her stomach. Lightning Dust went pale as her pupils trembled.

'What in the name of Tartarus was that?' It was entirely unnatural, and she didn't like it one bit. A part of her wondered if a certain strange mare was responsible. She darted her head towards the hallway to see that same taunting smile on that wicked face directed at her. Gilda stood behind, confused at what was happening.

"Don't say I didn't warn you. Lightning Dust, was it? I'm sure you're behavior's sure to make a turn after your little act of rebellion." Medusa said in an eerily calm tone.

"You..." Lightning Dust said as she placed a hoof on her chest, her mind ripping itself apart to find the best emotion to convey towards Medusa "What did you do to me!?"

"It's not so much as what I've done as it is what you've done, my dear. You were merely coaxed into joining me through your friend, and through your eagerness, you chose to stay with us..." She said in a decidedly playful tone, enjoying the look of shock on Lightning Dust's face.

"Wha-..." Lightning Dust turned to Gilda, who was sweating bullets "Gilda...is this true?"

"I swear, it wasn't like that at all! I was just-"

"Oh, but it was." Medusa said, flashing Gilda a supposedly cute smile "And I cannot thank you enough for your support, Gilda; I very much enjoy Lightning Dust's attitude. It might work wonders on our mission."

"Hey! Don't even pull that kind of joke, lady! What did you do to my friend!?" Gilda snapped, finding the courage to glare at Medusa, who merely chuckled at the display of anger.

"Let's just say that I wanted to make certain that you two would actually help me in my pursuit since we all share the same mindset. What I've done was nothing short of a gesture to seal the fact that neither of you would leave me." Gilda growled, and then took a moment to examine her forelegs again. Unlike the other day, they were without her snake tattoos, and something in Gilda's mind began to click.

"Wait a minute...You pulled some kind of spell on her, didn't you!? Why are your tattoos gone, huh?" Gilda asked. Medusa fought back the urge to applaud mockingly at Gilda despite her observation.

"Clever girl. And here I thought you weren't without intellect. Indeed my...'tattoos', as it were, have been removed. But they're not exactly what you think..." She said as a few arrow-pointed tendrils sprouted from Medusa's back, giving off a malevolent purple glow on the edges. The witch's face was now considerably frightening to those around her; widened eyes and an ear-to-ear grin "I simply filled her up with some of my snakes, just to make sure her allegiance remains intact. If she were to disobey me, or simply choose to abandon me, let's just say that she won't be losing just her friend..."

Gilda was shivering, and she cursed herself for it. Lightning Dust fared no better as she staggered back in her fear before plopping down on her haunches, pointing a trembling forehoof at Medusa.

"You're insane!!" She shouted, to which Medusa looked over at the opal pegasus with a small smirk and an arched eyebrow.

"So I was told. Anyone can be considered an outcast when their goals are considered extreme to some people...But I'm sure you'll think differently of me as we move along." She looked over at Gilda, taking in the dread in her eyes.

"Wait...So you're saying that Lightning's full of snakes now? How's that possible?" Gilda asked feebly.

"Oh, it's quite simple really." Medusa raised her left foreleg with a seemingly cheerful smile "All it took was this leg and nothing more."

"What? Then what about..." The griffon was full of dread when she noticed that not only was Medusa's right foreleg bare, but that Gilda herself was the remaining bystander for the witch to prey upon "Why!? I thought I already had your trust!"

"Oh, you do, Gilda, but I couldn't really take any chances. I had to make sure that your allegiance was absolute." Medusa said, brushing off Gilda's volume.

"That's not even funny! Get them out of me!" Gilda shouted, to which Medusa's smile disappeared momentarily, her face donning feigned disappointment.

"Well, I could make it happen, but calling all my snakes back at once means that your body will be destroyed, leading to death. Then I would be short one associate. Can't have that, can we?" Medusa shrugged before smiling again "But now that that's out of the way, we can now get some food in our bellies before preparing for our trip. We'll be discussing locations and landmarks over breakfast, of course. I'll need you all to be at your best while planning for today's itinerary."

Gilda immediately regretted ever bringing Lightning Dust along to her home with Medusa. She regretted ever meeting Medusa to begin with. This was going to be a long day for herself and her new 'superior'. She looked over at a nearly-catatonic Lightning Dust silently contemplating her current position.

All she knew for herself was that her fate was sealed, and she had no one to blame but herself.

End of Chapter 11

Chapter 12

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Chapter 12

A Heartfelt Reunion! Death Can Feel Fear?

Medusa rested her cheek on a hoof as she sat at the dining room table with an unamused look on her face and a plate with a couple of eclairs. She expected her new 'partners' to be more skilled and disciplined, but they really were nothing more than children who carried potential that was better off wasted.

Gilda had no map for the group's intended use, since she rarely ever travels, and all Lightning Dust could do was sit around in a near-catatonic state in her chair after the dreadful realization of having snake familiars resting inside of her body. She heaved a sigh as she looked over at Gilda, who tried to look back at the witch with narrowed eyes, although she was sweating.

"Clearly, I overestimated your respective abilities. I should at least take solace in the fact that you prepared an acceptable meal." Medusa said as she used one of her tendrils to grab one of the eclairs and took a bite. After finishing it, she held a content smile "I must say, these are divine. You're quite the cook." Medusa complimented genuinely.

"Just something I learned from my uncle. No big." Gilda responded shakily. She tried thinking of different ways for her and Lightning Dust to try and escape Medusa, but what stopped her was the fact that she, too, had some snakes lurking inside of her own body.

"Well, regardless, I'm not entirely pleased with the lack of information we possess for our trips, let alone funds." Medusa took another bite of her eclair and swallowed before continuing "I'll need you to either scrounge up some money yourself, or find the time to snap Lightning Dust out of her little trance so she can contribute. Of course, before that, we'll need a proper destination."

"...I know a place where we could start, but I don't really wanna go back there..." Gilda said, looking down as her tension was replaced with wistfulness.

"Oh? And where, precisely, would that be?" Medusa asked curiously.

"Ponyville. It's far west from here, and we can travel by airship, since you can't exactly fly..." Gilda said as she raised her head at Medusa.

"That sounds prudent enough. Alright then. See to it that our partner snaps back to reality and that you're both properly fed. You'll need all the energy you can get for this adventure of ours..." Medusa said deviously with a widened smile.
_____

Sometime after tending to the animals, Fluttershy and Crona trotted into Ponyville, although the latter tried keeping its face hidden while moving. Fluttershy looked down at Crona with a sympathetic and caring smile as she draped a wing over the swordpony's seemingly frail body.

"So, you said we were going to Rarity's?" Crona mumbled.

"Of course. I remembered how you wanted to have something for yourself to wear, so I thought it would be nice to get you an outfit from the boutique." Fluttershy replied softly.

"That's nice. At least I won't be naked all the time." Crona piped up, its fear lessening.

"Don't worry, Crona. You'll be fine once we reach Rarity's place." Fluttershy said as the two ponies continued to trot. Up ahead was a building resembling a carousel, much to Fluttershy's delight "Here we are. I hope she isn't too busy for us to show ourselves in."

"I don't wanna bother her if she's busy." Crona said, taking a step back "Maybe we can come back another time." Fluttershy felt bad about making Crona nervous and placed a hoof on the black pony's shoulder.

"Oh, I didn't want to sound like that at all. I'm sorry. I'm sure she wouldn't mind in the slightest." Fluttershy reassured, encouraging Crona to follow her to the front door as they made their way inside, where Rarity was seen placing a frilly dress onto a ponnequin. She looked over at the two ponies after she finished and greeted them with a bright smile.

"Why hello, you two. What brings you to my shop today?" Rarity asked.

"Well, it's just..." Crona looked down, placing its left hoof on its right leg "I was wondering if you would..." Rarity stared at Crona between pauses and chose to smile confidently.

"Say no more, Crona. You're free to browse any available dresses, or you can even request me for one of your own design." The fashionista offered. Crona instantly looked up to face Rarity.

"Really?" Crona asked incredulously.

"Of course! Although, if you're going for the latter option, it may take some time before I finish." Rarity added "But that's not a problem, since I can whip up something exquisite for one of your delicate frame overnight."

"That's great." Crona said with a small smile before it vanished "Too bad I don't have any money, though..."

"Oh, perish the thought, darling. Whatever attire of choice is on the house." Rarity replied with a dismissive wave of her hoof, surprising Crona.

"R-Really?" Crona asked incredulously.

"Why not? Think of it as a late welcome present, even if you're possibly not going to be here for long." Rarity winked at Crona, who continued to stare in surprise. Fluttershy stifled a giggle at Crona's reaction before she spoke.

"Go ahead, Crona. Don't be afraid to pick something that suits you." Fluttershy said happily.

Crona took a deep breath and took a first glance at the several dresses available. So far, they - like the latest dress Rarity placed - were all rather frilly. Crona gave a slight wince and looked down, pawing at the ground in nervous thought. Rarity smiled in embarrassment at Crona.

"There are more to choose from in the back if these dresses don't suit you, Crona. You can follow me if you like." Rarity offered. Crona picked up its head and blinked.

"Oh...Okay." Crona muttered before following Rarity along with Fluttershy. Going through another door, the swordpony noticed a larger selection of outfits, varying from formal to casual in appearance. Crona was nearly overwhelmed by the options until it noticed one that stood out; a plain white and long sleeve jacket. It wasn't complicated in design, and it seemed better than getting lost in thought over the other choices.

"I'd like that one there, please." Crona said, pointing at the jacket. Rarity looked over where the hoof was directed at.

"That jacket there?" Rarity asked before she nodded in comprehension and levitated the white jacket with her magic, bringing it over to her "Consider it done. Would you like to try it on?"

Crona nodded and approached the jacket, but then inspected its body. After a brief moment, the ambiguous pony bowed its head in shame.

"I don't know how I can do this..." Crona murmured sadly. Fluttershy donned a caring smile before she neared Crona.

"Don't worry, I'll help you. Just sit down on the floor, okay?" Crona looked at Fluttershy before following her command, satisfying the yellow pegasus "Good, now just lift your upper body up and stretch out your hooves like you're about to hug somepony." Crona slowly lifted itself up and extended its forelegs out, shocked that it was able to do so with ease. Fluttershy then nodded to Rarity, who was then able to carefully put the jacket on Crona, one sleeve at a time, making sure to button it up as well.

"Very good, Crona." Fluttershy said warmly. Crona rose up on all fours to inspect the jacket it was wearing. Rarity was seen with intrigued eyes.

"I must say, darling, you've made a wonderful choice. I can see how you would want to go with something white to go with your black coat. It probably would have been redundant to go with a black outfit." Rarity then tilted her head with a pensive stare "Then again, how would you look in an outfit that matched your mane color?" She then shook her head "No, I mustn't dwell on it; your choice was made."

Crona continued to inspect the coat before being seen with a small smile.

"I like it." Crona looked up at Rarity "Thank you for the outfit, Rarity."

"It was my pleasure, Crona. Do be careful with it, won't you? I'd hate for you to be caught in another scuffle with it on." Rarity replied. It was at that moment that her eyes widened "Oh dear, I almost forgot..."

"What? What's wrong?" Crona asked, starting to feel worried upon seeing Rarity, who then took a deep breath and looked at Crona.

"Crona, I may need to borrow that coat and make a slight...alteration to it, so that Ragnarok won't see fit to ruin it himself. Do you mind?" Rarity asked. Crona stared before nodding to the fashionista.

"Splendid." Rarity said as she used her magic to take off Crona's jacket "I'll have it ready for you later on today, so you won't have to worry too much."

"Okay. Thanks again, Rarity." Crona said, looking down with a smile.

"No problem at all. Perhaps you could join Fluttershy and I on our next visit to the spa. After a good treatment, you'll look and feel better than before." Rarity said cheerfully.

"That could be a great idea." Fluttershy said.

"A spa, you say?"

Ragnarok sprouted out of Crona's back and perched himself on the black pony's head. He ignored the slight look of disdain on Rarity's face.

"I never been to a spa before. It seems kinda girly to me." Ragnarok said rudely.

"Only one like yourself would say such nonsense." Rarity said, turning her head away from Ragnarok "If you must know, it's something you'll probably need as well sometime."

"Can we please not fight?" Fluttershy pleaded anxiously "I don't want to make this visit go bad..."

"Why would I need a visit to the spa when I'm just fine the way I am?" Ragnarok asked with a sneer "I don't need some pony telling me what I need and what I don't need!"

"Ragnarok, I'm sure she didn't mean it like that..." Crona piped up while looking up at the rude growth before scratching its head "But I never been to a spa either. Is it that good?" Rarity's eyes widened as she approached Crona.

"Darling, you would be surprised at how much a visit at the spa can work wonders on a pony's body. It's a very luxurious experience." Rarity said passionately.

"I'll gladly pay for both of us on our next visit if you like, Crona." Fluttershy offered kindly "It really is nice, and the ponies there are good at their jobs."

"Sure. That sounds nice." Crona replied.

"Hey, Rarity! Are you in here?" Everyone in the room turned to the door at the sound of a new voice.

"Is that Rainbow Dash? For whatever reason would she visit here?" Rarity asked, befuddled that the cyan pegasus would usually pick a time to stop by Carousel Boutique. Placing Crona's new jacket back on its ponnequin, she proceeded to trot out of the back room with Fluttershy and Crona following suit. As Rarity confirmed, Rainbow Dash was seen in the main lobby with a smile.

"Hey, girls! How's it going?" She asked in a chipper tone until she noticed Ragnarok perched on top of Crona "Oh, hey, Ragnarok..." Rainbow Dash said with less enthusiasm, earning a dirty glare from the demon sword.

"Hello to you, too, Rainbow Dash. What brings you to my shop around this time?" Rarity asked inquisitively.

"Well, it's not just me, actually." Rainbow Dash said as she scratched the back of her head before pointing outside "Discord actually rounded Twilight, Pinkie, Applejack, and I saying that Princess Celestia wanted to see us in Canterlot. Him and the others are waiting outside."

"Really? I wonder why she would ask of our presence the day after our last visit." Rarity asked curiously, rubbing her chin with a hoof.

"Maybe she managed to resolve the issue with Crona returning home?" Fluttershy asked. While she was happy on the possible thought, she at least wished to spend a little more time with Crona and Ragnarok.

"We won't know until we get there, right? C'mon!" Rainbow Dash said as she trotted out the front door, with the other three ponies and Ragnarok following suit.

'Could the princess have actually found me a way home? I really hope so...' Crona thought, developing a small smile while following the mares out of the boutique 'If she did, I can't wait to see Maka again. It feels like it's been too long...'

Outside, Discord was seen with the other element bearers lounging in the air as if resting on a hammock and perked up upon the new additions to the group.

"There you all are. I was beginning to think I was on a wild goose chase, and that's usually a sport for me." Discord quipped.

"Spare us your banter, Discord. You said that Princess Celestia wished to see us?" Rarity asked.

"Correct. I'm glad I found you all at a good time, because you'll probably need to witness this as well as dear little Crona." Discord smirked as he readied his talons "One trip to Canterlot coming up!" At the snap of his talons, the group found themselves instantly teleported out of Ponyville.
_____

Celestia and Luna stood in their throne room, waiting patiently for their intended guests to arrive. It was about time for them to break down the situation the best way that they could. Luna, for her part, was seen with a thin and nostalgic smile on her face while Celestia was seen with a neutral expression, calculating the possible outcomes of the upcoming event to herself.

The doors to their throne room opened with a loud creak as Discord was seen with the Elements of Harmony and Crona. Luna took it upon herself to greet the new visitors.

"Hello, all. It's a pleasure to see you again." Luna looked down at the black pony and smiled "You must be Crona. So nice to meet you face to face. Are you enjoying your time in Equestria?"

"Yeah...Who are you?" Crona asked.

"My apologies, Crona." Celestia voiced herself as she approached the group with Luna "I've forgotten that you haven't met my younger sister Luna. I'm glad that you made it here, because..." Celestia stopped herself, her spirit wavering before she continued "I have some good news and bad news..."

"D-Do I really wanna hear the bad news?" Crona asked anxiously.

"It is your choice, Crona. I only wish to impart what I have to say before we continue..."

"Okay...I suppose it's best to get it out of the way." Crona said, not feeling happy with what was about to be said.

"Alright." Celestia closed her eyes and took a deep breath "It is with a heavy heart that you will be unable to return to Death City." The following news shocked the element bearers, namely Fluttershy. Needless to say, Crona was feeling worse.

"Wh-What?" Crona mewled.

"I'm sorry. I've done what I can, but I'm afraid it is out of my hooves to provide you with a way home." Celestia explained morosely, before she smiled "However, that is where the good news comes in."

"Princess Celestia, what could possibly ease the fact that Crona and Ragnarok won't be able to go back to their home?" Twilight asked "No offense, but I doubt there would be a surefire way to turn Crona's depression around..."

"That's where you're wrong, Twilight." Discord said as she hovered to the princesses' side "In fact, the good news will wipe away dear Crona's pain in the blink of an eye."

"Really?" Twilight blinked before facing Celestia "What is it?"

"I'd like for you all to look behind, Discord, Luna and I. What do you see?" Celestia asked. Complying to her request, the element bearers and a saddened Crona looked behind Celestia to see what appeared to be a large mirror on a golden frame.

"Oh my!" Rarity gasped at the mirror's appearance "I could really use one of those in my home." She swooned.

"What's with th' mirror, princess? Is it some kinda magical item?" Applejack asked.

"In a way, Applejack. You see, this mirror is very special to us, and is an item that nopony else in Equestria knows about." Celestia explained "And, like Discord, I can assure you that this may ease the troublesome news I've shared."

The group made their way towards the mirror and stopped in front of it. Everypony and Discord watched how Celestia's horn glowed as she focused her magic on the mirror, which began to light up. The group, save for Celestia, shielded their eyes until the light receded. It was then they noticed that upon looking at the mirror, their reflection was replaced with another sight that was strikingly familiar to Crona, who stared with wide eyes along with the other element bearers.

"It's-...It's Lord Death!" Crona nearly shouted.

From what the swordpony seen in the mirror, it was indeed the same black shroud wearing a comical skull mask staring back from inside the mirror. The background seen inside consisted of a partly clouded blue sky with windows in the air, and on the ground, there appeared to be several crosses, as well as the platform the shroud was standing on.

"Crona, is that you?" Lord Death asked "Splendid! So you're still around after all!"

"Wait, what!?" Rainbow Dash piped up "That's Lord Death? He looks...weird..." She cringed at his sight.

"Lord Death, what's going on? Why am I here?" Crona asked frantically.

"Now now, Crona, everything will be explained in due time. You'll have to calm down before I can do so." Lord Death said as two large hands appeared on his being, holding them up in a placating motion before disappearing back into his body "In fact, you'd be surprised that I'm not the only one expecting to hear from you today."

"Who else is here?" Crona blinked before noticing several other people enter the mirror's view. The swordpony gasped at the group that came into view, namely the blonde girl that stopped next to Lord Death. A tear could be seen rolling down Crona's right cheek.

"Maka..."

"Crona?" Maka asked before gasping and smiling "Crona, it is you! I'm so glad to see you again!" They stared at each other through the mirror before another person showed up, only this time, it was a white-haired boy.

"Crona, is that you?" He blinked at Crona's new form before turning to Maka "Are you sure that's Crona over there, Maka? All I see is a pony..." The boy looked back at the rest of the group "In fact, all I see is nothing but ponies."

"Hey! What am I, chopped liver?" Discord complained.

"Of course it's Crona, Soul! Can't you tell?" Maka said before looking down at Crona "Then again, now that you mention it..." She stared before placing her hands on her cheeks, a sweet smile on your face "You do look rather adorable, Crona." The swordpony looked down with a bashful smile and a blush.

"You again!"

Ragnarok sprouted from Crona's back and pointed a paw at Maka with an angry glance.

"I never thought I'd have to see your stupid face again after Crona decided to play the hero!" Maka could only giggle in embarrassment at Ragnarok's words.

"It's nice to see you, too, Ragnarok." She greeted awkwardly.

"So you must be the same Maka Crona was talking about." Twilight said with a smile "It's a pleasure to meet you finally. My name is Twilight Sparkle. Crona told me you shared the same enthusiasm for studying as much as I do."

"Oh! It's nice to meet you, too. I see Crona's been talking about us, huh?" Maka said with a smile "But yeah, I do like to study now and then."

"Can anyone tell me why Crona's a pony?" Soul piped up "I'm seriously lost here."

"And you must be Soul." Twilight said "I heard from Crona that you're a weapon, correct?"

"Yeah, what about it?" Soul asked "Got any questions for me?"

"Hey, you two, move aside! I wanna see Crona, too!"

The raspy voice from behind Maka and Soul earned their attention before another person came into view in between the two. He was a boy with spiked blue hair, a black shirt, a silver scarf, fingerless gloves, and white pants with black stripes on the bottom. A star was seen on his right shoulder, as well as the silver toes on his black shoes.

"Huh? Why are there ponies here?" The boy looked at the group, flummoxed as he scratched the back of his head.

"I know, right? I was thrown off, too." Soul said from behind.

"Black Star? I'm over here." Crona said, raising a hoof to grab his attention. Black Star's eyes fell on the black pony and he blinked before going slackjawed.

"Crona!? What the heck happened to you!?" Black Star shouted.

"I-...I was turned into a pony when I got here." Crona replied feebly.

"Wait a minute." Rainbow Dash said before pointing at Black Star "You're supposed to be the guy who surprasses what's-their-name?" After grabbing his attention, Black Star grinned proudly at Rainbow Dash as he pointed a thumb at himself.

"Nice to see my reputation's spreading. That's right, I'm Black Star. The one who will surpass God!" He proclaimed with bravado.

"Well, before you surpass God, whoever that is, you gotta remember that there are other awesome figures out there, like me." Rainbow Dash placed a hoof on her chest.

"And who are you supposed to be?" Black Star asked as he crossed his arms.

"Name's Rainbow Dash; fastest flier in Equestria and soon-to-be Wonderbolt." Black Star stared before he broke out in laughter.

"If you're supposed to be an obstacle for me, that's no problem. If I could go to that Equestria place, I'd surpass you in no time at all!" Rainbow Dash stared before narrowing her eyes.

"I'd like to see you try. I doubt you'd be able to keep up with me." Rainbow Dash shot back, earning a glare from Black Star.

"Is that a challenge? You don't know just how powerful I can be-"

*BONK!*

Black Star was seen face first on the ground with a large dent on the back of his head. Over him, Lord Death was seen with a large hand held out in a chopping gesture. Needless to say, the element bearers were shocked.

"I do hope you can forgive Black Star. He has a rather 'eager' nature, as it were." Lord Death said to the group.

"I feel I must say the same for Rainbow Dash." Celestia said maturely, while the cyan pegasus looked away in shame.

"Sorry about that..." She muttered penitently.

"Whoa! That must hurt somethin' fierce." Applejack said as she inspected BLack Star "Is he gonna be alright?"

"Oh, he'll be fine." Maka said with a reassuring smile "He might seem like he's all talk, but Black Star is tougher than he looks."

"Oh no, Black Star."

Soul moved out of the mirror's view for a girl to show herself in next to Maka as she picked up Black Star. She had long black hair done in a ponytail, and was seen with pale yellow clothing with a yellow star emblazoned on the right side of her chest. There were grey and black bandages on her arms from the shoulder down, and a sweatband with a star symbol on it on each of her wrists.

"Hey, Tsubaki, have you seen Crona yet?" Maka asked as she pointed to the black pony in question. The girl named Tsubaki noticed Crona and Ragnarok before she stifled a gasp and smiled warmly.

"Crona, Ragnarok, it's nice to see you both again." Tsubaki greeted as she held Black Star.

"I missed you." Crona said, returning a smile.

"I missed your food!" Ragnarok piped up, making Tsubaki giggle.

"Are you both adjusting well here? I must say, I'm surprised at your new form." Tsubaki said as she examined Crona.

"Yeah, it was hard at first, but I'm dealing with it." Crona said with a nod.

"Excuse us. We would like to see Crona as well."

The sophisticated voice heard behind Lord Death and the humans beckoned for them to move out of view for three other people. Two of them were women who looked nearly identical in their attire, including a white cowboy hat and tie, tight and sleeveless red bellyshirts, and high-heel black boots.

Their noticeable differences where that the taller one had dark blonde hair that reached her back, two silver bracelets on each hand, and long blue jeans, while the shorter one had chin-length blonde hair and puffy blue shorts.

The boy standing between them had pale skin and yellow eyes, and was dressed in a black tuxedo with white lines in a symmetrical pattern, with a crest resembling Lord Death's mask on his white shirt. Unlike his attire, his black hair was adorned with three white lines on the left side of his head. He was seen with a stoic expression.

"Whoa, they weren't kidding when they mentioned ponies." The taller girl said with a raised eyebrow as she looked at the group.

"Yay~! Ponies~!" The smaller one said, cheering and gushing at the ponies' appearance "They look so cute, don't they, guys?"

"Indeed." The boy piped up as he noticed Ragnarok on top of a black pony, blinking in surprise "Crona, is that really you? You look rather different."

"Hi, Kid, Liz, Patty." Crona said "Yeah, this is what I look like now."

"I see you're doing well, although..." Kid looked at the entire group "I'll need you to stand perfectly in the middle..."

"Oh, okay."

Kid continued to observe the rest of the ponies, then turned to Twilight and Rarity "You two, won't you stand on either side of Crona?"

Twilight and Rarity stared at Kid, then at each other before complying to his request.

"Now for the winged ponies on either side of the unicorns."

"Oh, okay..." Fluttershy said as she stood next to Twilight, though she wished to stand next to Crona. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash descended and reluctantly stood next to Rarity, wondering where Kid was going.

"The regular ponies next now, but..." Kid trailed off before pointing at Pinkie "That one must wear the same kind of hat!"

"Just what in the hay are ya tryin' to do here?" Applejack asked, oblivious to the fact that Pinkie fished out an exact replica of her stetson from her own mane before putting it on and grinning.

"Now for the tall ones in regalia. Stand behind the ponies, please."

Celestia chuckled as she and Luna decided to stand next to each other behind Crona. Luna arched an eyebrow at Kid.

"Just who is he?" Luna whispered.

"Judging by his attire, he might be affiliated with Lord Death." Celestia whispered back, albeit in amusement. Kid made a motion with his hands as if he were focusing a lens as he stared through them at the ponies before nodding in approval.

"Much better. It's much easier for me to talk to you all now-"

"How about me, hm?" Discord said with a playful smile as he appeared in front of the ponies, in Kid's full view.

Kid, for his part, immediately caved in at the sight of Discord, as if he saw a ghost.

"WHAT IN THE NAME OF ALL THAT'S SYMMETRICAL IS THAAAAT!?!" Kid shouted before he reeled back and fell in a sitting position. Discord only guffawed at his reaction.

"Discord!" Twilight chided.

"Oh, Discord, I see you haven't changed." Lord Death said cheerfully as he took up most of the mirror's view.

"You'd be surprised, Lord Death. It seems we both have undergone changes as of late. I like your style." Discord said.

"Thank you. Anyways, I'd like you to meet my..." Lord Death looked over at Kid, who was seen cradling himself in a fetal position while Liz and Patty tried to comfort him "...son that you just scared."

"Oh my goodness, you actually have a son? How exciting! Did you do this yourself?" Discord asked curiously "I doubt there would be anyone willing to find a soulmate in the Grim Reaper."

"Yes, well, personal issues aside, I have made sure he's on his way to inheriting my role." Lord Death said "He just needs more training is all."

"...Does this mean we can stop standing like this now?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"Lord Death." Crona said, prompting Discord to float out of view "You still haven't answered my question yet. Why was I sent here and not back at Death City?"

"Well, Lord Death?" Celestia said with a smile that appeared serene "Given what poor Crona has been put through, I believe now would be the time for a proper explanation, don't you?" She said in a seemingly kind tone with her eyes closed. As Lord Death looked upon the solar princess in silence, some beads of sweat were seen on his mask, and the Grim Reaper began to tremble as if the ground beneath him were quaking. The children in the background, save for Kid, Liz, and Patty, watched in surprise.

"Wait...Is Lord Death actually shivering?" Soul asked as he watched Lord Death give a slight whimper.

End of Chapter 12

Chapter 13

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Chapter 13

Lord Death's Confession! Conquering One's Fear?

Medusa wore her cloak as she stared the train that rested at the station far outside of town. As crazy as most people consider her, the snake witch found this mode of transportation to be absolutely sacchirine and gaudy in design. To her, it looked like something out of a child's dream.

"And you're saying this is our way to Ponyville?" Medusa asked in deadpan before sighing "Well, if it means getting to our next destination fast enough, I suppose I have no qualms."

"Yeah, I know it's not the best." Gilda said with mild disinterest "In fact, I wouldn't touch that with a ten foot pole and fly to Ponyville, but seeing as how you're an earth pony, we don't have much of a choice."

"Definitely beats carrying you, that's for sure." Lightning Dust muttered.

"Now, don't go giving me ideas, Lightning Dust." Medusa teased with a knowing smile, reveling in her forced cohort's discontent "Let's be off, shall we? We have a long way to go..." She said as the three entered in a cart on the train. The conductor looked at his watch before shouting.

"All aboard! Next stop, Baltimare!"
_____

Lord Death continued to shiver at Celestia's expression, surprising the inhabitants of both worlds as they stared at him. He finally stopped and took a deep breath.

"Of course. I owe both you all an explanation for all of this." Death looked over at Crona's curious face "Listen, Crona, about you appearing in Equestria..."

"Hang on, please."

Lord Death looked over at Maka, who stood alongside him at the mirror and looking at Celestia and Crona with her sad eyes.

"If it's alright with you, I want to explain, too. I'm just as responsible for this as Lord Death." Maka said penitently. Celestia blinked at Maka's interjection.

"Maka, was it? What makes you responsible for Crona residing in Equestria?" She asked inquisitively, to which Maka hung her head.

"You see, I don't know if you were aware of this or not, but in our world...Crona died two days ago." The ponies and Discord were shocked at the reveal.

"What!?" Twilight blurted out "But-...But that doesn't make any sense!"

"Too easy." Discord piped up smugly.

"Indeed it doesn't, but this is where I will shed some light on this whole thing." Lord Death said as he laid an oversized hand on what appeared to be his chest "Maka came to me, crestfallen after hearing about Crona and Ragnarok's passing and wished for me to find a way to revive them. Such a way was impossible without them ending up like Sid, one of my instructors."

"He's a zombie, by the way." Soul spoke up.

"A zombie?" Fluttershy whimpered.

"Yeah, Sid can be very scary when you first see him." Crona said before smiling "But he's good. At least, Maka says so."

"Moving on." Lord Death said "Maka refused to accept Crona's death, so I decided to do the impossible and send their souls into a different world to live on and adapt to their rules. Thankfully, I remembered my fond connection to this world and let Crona and Ragnarok have a nice new life." He bowed to Celestia "You have every right to be cross with me for not letting you know about this sooner, Celestia, but my hands were quite tied, and we just averted a crisis back in our own world."

"Wait! You sent us here?" Ragnarok shouted indignantly before flailing a fist "I don't remember saying it was okay to drop us into a different world!"

"You don't say." Celestia spoke up, gradually taking in the explanation "It may be inappropriate of me to ask, but who was responsible for Crona and Ragnarok's death?" Maka's eyes narrowed as she looked away.

"Medusa..." She uttered venomously.

"Medusa?" Rainbow Dash voiced in confusion "You mean Crona's mom killed her? That's messed up!"

"Huh? Crona actually told you about Medusa?" Lord Death asked in surprise "Well, that's something I never anticipated. Yes, Medusa was responsible for Crona's death, but she's been dealt with, thanks to Maka."

"That is indeed good news." Luna spoke up "Now that this whole ordeal has been cleared up, I suppose that means that Crona and Ragnarok shall make Equestria their new home. But seeing as how they're still attached to their previous home, perhaps we can make arrangements for them to stay in touch with their old friends?"

"I would like that very much." Crona said with a smile "I got so much to talk about, too. Fluttershy's been taking care of me ever since she found me outside of her home the other day."

"That's great, Crona!" Maka beamed at her friend "I should tell you about how my friends and I defeated the kishin."

"Yeah, it was amazing!" Black Star said as he poked his head in between Lord Death and Maka. A comical bandage was seen on the back of his head "We had that goofy kishin on the ropes and Maka managed to finish the job!" He pointed at himself with a thumb "Of course, Yours Truly could've taken him down no problem." Crona chuckled softly and amiably at Black Star's comment, used to his proud personality.

"Wow. I never saw Crona this happy before." Rainbow Dash said, looking over at the swordpony.

"I know, right?" Pinkie chimed in with a wide grin "Now this is something I wanted to see since we met!"

"While I'd love for us all to bond, I'm afraid we'll have to cut things short on account of Luna and I taking care of our royal duties." Celestia said before smiling "Although Luna's proposition can be done easily, rest assured."

"Awwwwwwww~!" Pinkie and Patty moaned in unison.

"Thank you so much, Princess Celestia." Twilight bowed curtly "Crona might not be able to go home, but this is the next best thing."

"Well, in that case, I'll leave you all to it, then." Lord Death said as his body bounced a little from where he stood "Considering how well the introductions went, I'm sure we'll meet you all again someday."

"Goodbye for now, Crona." Maka said with a wave "It's really nice to see you alive and well again."

"I'll definitely see you soon, Maka." Crona said while waving back, though Ragnarok had his arms crossed while looking away coldly. The mirror flashed briefly before the image of Lord Death and the others were gone instantly, leaving only a regular reflection of the ponies.

"They were really good company." Applejack said while looking at the mirror "Nice t' see what another world looks like, even if th' reaper himself lives there." She shuddered after remembering Lord Death's occupation.

"Yes, and some of them had good attire." Rarity said cheerfully.

"Some?" Applejack asked.

"Soul's ensemble left much to be desired, in my opinion."

"I'm so glad things have turned out much better for you, Crona." Fluttershy said with a brief nuzzle to Crona's cheek "Maybe we can find the time to talk to them tomorrow if possible."

"That would be nice." Crona replied contently.

"In that case, we'd better get you all back to your usual lives." Discord said as he hovered over Crona and the element bearers.

"Before you leave, I have something to say." Celestia said before approaching the pony in question and gently placing a hoof on its left shoulder. She looked into Crona's eyes with a maternal gaze "I heard about what had happened yesterday, and all I can tell you is this: Be careful, Crona. Knowing the roots of your blood, please be careful. And don't be afraid to defend your friends if things go bad."

Crona stared back in silence, noticing how Celestia's gaze seemed so comforting, and yet pleading at the same time. After a moment of silence, Crona nodded with a soft, affirmative grunt. With a satisfied smile, Celestia distanced herself from the other ponies as Discord snapped his talons, making the group disappear in a flash of light.

"To think that such a disturbance was caused by a sample of black blood." Luna said as she shook her head "I can't imagine what would happen if a wicked life source were to be found in yet another pony."

"Thankfully, we won't have to worry too much, considering Crona and Ragnarok have their blood under control, and their respective minds intact." Celestia responded "While they're going back to a life of peace, I'm sure they'll be more cautious of their surroundings from now on."
_____

Discord and the ponies found themselves near Town Hall when they arrived back to Ponyville. The ponies sought to go their separate ways once they said their goodbyes until they noticed the doors to Town Hall open to reveal a certain dragon carrying a pile of assorted parchments. Twilight perked up after noticing.

"Spike? What are you doing out of the library?" Twilight asked, growing nervous over Crona's possible reaction from seeing Spike.

"Well, I noticed we were low on paper, so I grabbed some spares from Town Hall after asking Mayor Mare." Spike replied. He peered his head to the side to get a better look at the ponies and noticed Crona in the group, flinching before hiding his head "Um, I'm just gonna head home now. See you later, girls!" Spike said before quickly scampering off, dropping a couple of parchments along the way.

"In my defense, I had no knowledge about this." Discord said while placing a claw on his chest.

"It's okay, Discord. None of us knew about it." Twilight replied before looking at Crona "Are you okay, Crona?"

"Yeah, I'll be fine." Crona replied, only slightly shaken from noticing Spike "So that actually is a little one, huh?"

"Just what in th' hay's a little one?" Applejack asked "Is that what they call dragons where yer from?"

"Well, not exactly..." Crona said while looking down "No...I just called the last one I saw before I-..." A lump was found in Crona's throat as they chose to pause. There was anticipation from the other ponies as they awaited an answer.

"Before you killed it, correct?" Discord piped up, earning the attention of the ponies below him "Not to sound nonchalant about this, but I wouldn't be surprised if you were forced into such a position, given your tragic backstory and your combat experience. I'd venture a guess that your 'precious mother'..." He said while making air quotes "...was responsible for this?"

"Y-Yeah..." Crona sunk into a sitting position, feeling downcast about dredging up a painful memory.

"Discord, you could at least be more sensitive about Crona's feelings." Twilight chided sharply.

"All I was doing was piecing the puzzle, and it turns out I was correct." Discord replied with a shrug "It beats waiting for an answer in the form of tears."

"Be that as it may, Discord, that wasn't very nice." Fluttershy spoke up before approaching Crona and sitting in front of her "I don't want to ask too much of you Crona, but maybe tell us more about your experience? We'll be willing to help as your new friends."

"Yeah! You can always count on us to turn that frown upside-down!" Pinkie Pie cheered with some random confetti spewing out of nowhere.

"Well, Lady Medusa forced me to do it because...well..." Crona softly pawed at the ground with a foreleg "I don't really know...I think she wanted me to become a kishin, since she wanted Ragnarok and I to eat a lot of souls." The mares shuddered at the image.

"I didn't want to at first, because I didn't want to deal with it, but then Lady Medusa punished me by locking me in a dark room with no food and Ragnarok beating me up." Crona quivered after recalling it "It happened a few more times until I went through with it." All the mares stood slackjawed at the brief story.

"...Just tossing this out there: Your mom has serious issues." Rainbow Dash commented with an even tone that belied her shock.

"I agree, and I'm rarely one to ever sympathize with anypony." Discord said with an incredulous look.

"So wait..." Twilight said "You're only afraid of the Little One because you had to kill it?"

"It was kind of scary at first, but I didn't want to kill it, no." Crona rubbed its eyes as if tears were about to form "I don't want to go through with it again."

"Maybe that's the problem." Crona looked over at a smiling Twilight "Yes, he triggers a bad experience, but maybe you fear Spike not because of his appearance, but because you think you'll repeat something bad?"

"I-I don't want to! I don't know how to deal with-" Crona's mouth was gently closed by a hoof as Twilight shushed.

"Don't worry, you won't have to. In fact, maybe this can be a chance to try and overcome your traumatic experience by making friends with Spike." Twilight said encouragingly.

"Y-You think it's best?" Crona asked Twilight. Fluttershy hovered into the air with a warm smile on her face.

"Don't worry, Crona. I'm here for you if it means getting through this together. Spike really is a very nice dragon once you get to know him." Crona stared up at Fluttershy and slowly got on all fours, although was visibly nervous about the trial to come.

"Okay. I-I'll trust you, Fluttershy. But how aren't you afraid of him?"

"Oh, I'm not afraid of baby dragons. Full grown dragons, on the other hoof..." Fluttershy shivered before she regained her composure "Spike's very different from the one's we're familiar with. And to prove it, we'll spend the day with Twilight." She paused before grinning awkwardly at Twilight "If that's alright with you."

"Of course." Twilight replied "If it's possible, we can make it to where Crona can actually be tolerant of Spike's company."

"Well, iffin y'all can manage that, we got our own stuff t' deal with." Applejack pointed out "Ah gotta get back home an' do my chores."

"And I have to get back to work at my boutique, so I'm afraid I'll be occupied as well. Sorry we won't be joining you all." Rarity apologized.

"It's alright, girls." Fluttershy said kindly "We wouldn't want to interfere with your business. Besides, I'm sure we can handle Crona without any big problems."

"I'm game." Rainbow Dash said "Got nothing better to do right now."

"Me, too!" Pinkie chirped.

"Are you forgetting about me as well?" Discord asked with a smirk.

"Then it's settled." Twilight said proudly "We'll all band together and help Crona make friends with Spike." She said as the group made a path to the library, with Rarity and Applejack going their separate ways.

"Here's hoping it'll be easy..." Rainbow Dash muttered, thinking that her and her friends will be caught in an ordeal.

End of Chapter 13

Author's Notes:

I cannot apologize enough for my updating pace, everyone. My lack of muse has been absolute hell every time I remember that I have stories on this site that need to be paid attention to once in a while.

Anyways, to explain about the form of transportation in the first part of the story: I was kind of flabbergasted to think that there was a way to the land of griffons via train, when the map showed that the griffon lands were an entirely different continent not too far from Equestria. Unless there was some kind of indistinguishable bridge between lands, I'm still shocked.

Was gonna have them take an airship, but then I thought, why not? Their trip's gonna be long either way.

So yeah, the next episode is gonna be the misadventures of overcoming fear. Will they be successful? Will there be some unforeseen twist? Will this end in the ever-so-predictable positive outcome and/or baby steps?

...Yeah, possibly that last part.

But despite all of that, thank you all for putting up for my lack of activity again.

Enjoy the chapter. Peace!

Chapter 14

View Online

Chapter 14
A New Friendship Blossoms! A Meister and a Dragon?

Fluttershy and Crona sat in the library with Twilight, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Discord. Needless to say that Crona was rather nervous about the whole ordeal, but the silver lining to this was that its anxiety was lessened after the latest visit to Canterlot. Silence hung in the air before it was broken by a confident Twilight.

"Okay, Crona. Are you ready?" Twilight smiled.

"I think so..." Crona murmured, looking down at the wooden floor with mild reluctance on its face. Fluttershy and Twilight felt that it wouldn't be easy with that particular response, but they weren't deterred from their goal. Twilight took a deep breath and looked over towards the stairs.

"You can come down now, Spike!" She called out. A moment later, the aforementioned dragon was seen going down the stairs and approaching the group, with Crona instantly looking away and mildly trembling. Spike crossed his arms and cocked his head to the side as he stared at the black pony.

"Don't worry. You're doing good so far, Crona." Fluttershy said encouragingly while she gently rested a hoof on Crona's back "Just remember that Spike is just as much of a friend as the rest of us, and we'll be there for you." She gave a brief nuzzle to punctuate her fact.

"O-Okay..." Crona said quietly before slowly turning its head to face Spike, only to quickly look away after catching a small glimpse of his face.

"Ummm, are you sure this is a good idea, Twilight?" Spike asked, turning to the pony in question with a raised eyebrow "I mean, Discord already gave me the gist of Crona's fear, so wouldn't it be best for me not to be anywhere near him?" He paused before shifting his eyes at Crona briefly before looking back at Twilight "Her?" He corrected himself hesitantly.

"It's no trouble at all, Spike. We're going to try our best to help Crona overcome their traumatic experience and see you as a friend." Twilight explained before looking over at Crona, who was still looking away while Fluttershy comforted them "...That is, if we can make good progress while doing so."

"Why not let them talk with each other and see what they have in common?" Pinkie suggested with a smile.

"Pinkie, we're trying to make Crona and Spike friends, not get them to date each other." Rainbow Dash said with a roll of her eyes.

"Besides, that would be a bad idea, considering one wouldn't easily converse with the other." Discord added matter-of-factly, although he couldn't deny the hilarity of possible awkward silence between the two.

"Why don't we do some activities together and try to connect from there?" Fluttershy offered "I'm sure we can find some things to do in the library together."

"How about some Daring Do books?" Rainbow Dash asked eagerly "Crona hasn't lived til she's read the awesome adventures of a great treasure hunter!"

"Treasure hunter?" Crona blinked.

"Yeah!" Rainbow Dash replied instantly "She's as awesome as the adventures she goes on. So awesome that ponies are making unofficial stories of their own based on her."

"A-Are they good?" The swordpony asked, to which Rainbow Dash paused.

"Well, some of them are..." She then leered outside of a window "Others just make the stupidest stories, I was unlucky enough to read one of them." Noticing Rainbow Dash's expression, Twilight merely heaved a sigh and shook her head while Crona, Fluttershy, and Discord traded glances. Meanwhile, Pinkie only giggled and muttered something about 'Excalibur'. Fluttershy then smiled awkwardly.

"How about we let Crona decide what we should do together?" Fluttershy asked, hoping that everypony else would comply.

"Maybe you're right, Fluttershy." Twilight responded before smiling warmly at the swordpony "Something in their comfort zone would possibly work wonders for future friendships. What would you like to do, Crona."

"Um..." Crona looked down, clutching their right foreleg with a hoof "I don't know how to answer that one..." They said uncomfortably. Twilight hummed before an idea came to her.

"Okay, is there something that you would do that would lift your spirits? Something you and Maka did together?" Crona perked up at the mention of Maka and decided to think back on the memories they spent together back at the DWMA.

"Hmm...Well, Maka once told me that she writes poems whenever something's bothering her." The swordpony suggested.

"Poetry? Really?" Spike asked with a raised eyebrow while Twilight's eyes lit up.

"That's a great idea! Maybe we can each make our own poems and read them to each other." Twilight said vigourously while clopping her forehooves.

"Poetry? That sounds fun!" Pinkie chimed in. Meanwhile, Rainbow Dash folded her forelegs and closed her eyes.

"I dunno. I mean, yeah, I'm writing a novel of my own, but I don't think I'm up for poetry." Rainbow Dash said with mild protest.

"C'mon, Dashie. I know you'll make an awesome poem." Pinkie grinned brightly at the cyan pegasus, who picked up a smile after hearing her praise.

"So this is turning into a poetry corner, then? Very well." Discord snapped his talons and was seen wearing a black shirt and beret, as well as framed glasses while holding a set of bongos "If it's what Crona wants, I suppose I'll try and project my muse." He said before hitting the bongos rapidly with his paw and claw. Fluttershy giggled before smiling at Crona.

"I'm glad you're willing to cooperate with us, Crona. I can't wait to read what you'll write for everypony." Fluttershy said warmly. The black pony looked down and fidgeted their hooves. Twilight glanced at Crona with a grin.

"Say, Crona. Have you ever wrote a poem with Maka?" Crona nodded to Twilight's question, to which her grin widened "Great. Why not show us that one?" Crona looked up and blinked at Twilight.

"R-Really? Well, okay..." Crona murmured.

"I'll go get the parchments!" Spike said with a smile as he scurried back up the stairs.
_____

Sounds of scribbling filled the air as the group worked on their own poems. Crona, however, was struggling with using its mouth while the other ponies did so flawlessly. It gave up on trying to write while staring down despondently at the scribbles that covered the parchment. Crona then looked at its forehooves with a frown.

"I miss my hands..." The swordpony said somberly. Fluttershy looked up with a frown before she had an idea. She trotted over to Discord and began whispering into an ear, making the draconequus stop what he was doing as he stared blankly before a smile graced his lips. With a snap of his talons, Crona's forehooves flashed and developed five black digits.

"Wh-What?" Crona muttered in surprise.

"Just to help you out with your little problem. Thank Fluttershy for the idea." He directed a claw to an equally surprised Fluttershy.

"Um...Discord, when I asked if you would please help Crona, that wasn't what I had in mind..." Fluttershy explained as she stared at the black pony's mutated hooves. Pinkie gasped as she looked up as well, although she grinned at the sight.

"Hey! I can do that, too! Watch." She said before she took a deep breath and breathed into her right hoof, while the left hoof began sprouting four tiny digits resembling a hand. Twilight, Spike, and Rainbow Dash shuddered at the sight of it.

"Maybe one of us should help Crona with her poem?" Rainbow Dash asked. Crona, after flexing the fingers on their new set of hands, spoke up.

"I think I can work with this. It feels weird in this body, but..." Crona balled its hands into fists "Thanks, Fluttershy. And Discord, too."

"No problem, my friend. Anything to get your creativity flowing." Discord said as his eyes shifted to resemble orange lava lamps. Crona stared at the draconequus and smiled awkwardly before picking up a pen and began to write more on their parchment, much better than before. The others went back to their own papers and did the same.

"You can give Crona hooves again when this is over, right, Discord?" Fluttershy whispered, to which Discord nodded with a genuine smile.

"Anything for you, Fluttershy." He replied.
_____

"Okay, everypony. Who will read their poem first?" Twilight asked her friends as the entire group held their own respective finished projects in their grasp. Crona, now with forehooves again, kept its parchment face down, away from any curious eyes. Pinkie flailed a raised hoof as she grinned ecstatically.

"Oh! Oh! Pick me!" Pinkie asked with glee.

"Why not let Crona do it?" Spike asked "Isn't this what the whole exercise was about?"

"Good idea, Spike." Twilight responded with a proud smile before turning to Crona "What do you say, Crona? Care to recite your poem to everypony?"

"Um...I-I'd rather not. I don't know how to deal with reading to crowds..." The black pony fidgeted its forehooves before Fluttershy came to their side with a warm smile.

"It's okay, Crona. I understand completely." Fluttershy said while placing a hoof on Crona's back, setting them at ease. Spike tilted his head before he smiled.

"Why don't I read it, then?" Spike asked as he went to pick up Crona's poem. He stopped to look up at the nervous pony in front of him "Do you mind?" When he was met with a shaking head, he picked up the parchment and skimmed the contents for himself before going over to Twilight. He was surprisingly silent as he continued reading until Twilight joined him.

"I'm curious about this, too. What's it say?" She then found herself enraptured by the parchment as the two read it in silence. Rainbow Dash stared at them before cocking her head to the side.

"Hey, what's the holdup? You gonna read it or not?" She asked. Instead of a verbal answer, Spike had placed the parchment face down on a nearby coffee table and walked over to a corner with Twilight following behind.

What happened next surprised everyone in the room, bar Crona, as they watched Spike and Twilight sit down and curl up next to each other with their backs turned to the others. Both of their ears were flopped downward to show their apparent depression before they croaked in unison.

"I wish I was never born..."

Needless to say, the others were shocked about this sudden happening. Crona merely stared at them before looking away in slight embarrassment.

"Wow. I look at Twilight and get a case of deja vu." Discord piped up incredulously. Three sets of glaring eyes followed after his quip, to which he pointed at Twilight "Don't give me that! This is practically a spitting image of our first encounter; the only difference being that a piece of written paper did this and not me!" Fluttershy looked over at the parchment and went over to pick it up.

"Crona, what could you have possibly written?" The timid pegasus asked with morbid curiosity. She skimmed the poem for herself, quickly joined by Pinkie Pie and Rainbow Dash.

"I wanna see, too. It can't be that bad, can it?" Rainbow Dash asked rhetorically.

"Yeah. It's just a poem, right?" Pinkie asked as she read silently with her friends.

In one quick motion, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, and Pinkie Pie joined Spike and Twilight in the corner, sitting down in the same depressive fashion as them. Pinkie's mane and tail even became straight somehow, much to Crona's surprise.

"I wish I was never born..." They whimpered.

Crona saw how Spike and the ponies had gathered to share their newfound misery together. Depressing as the sight may be, it felt oddly nostalgic to Crona. So the swordpony did the one thing possible to support its new friends.

By joining them.

"I wish I was never born..." Crona moaned in the same depressive tone as the others while sitting with them.

Discord was the only one who remained, silently staring at the face-down poem in front of him that somehow held the power to bring down two thirds of the Elements of Harmony. If he hadn't have been reformed, he would've used it to his advantage, but right now, he was entirely curious about the poem's effectiveness.

This curiosity was replaced with caution. He knew what would happen if he decided to read it for himself and did not feel up to following the crowd. He looked away with his arms crossed, muzzle in the air as he attempted to look strong-willed against the piece of paper beneath him.

He continued to stand tall, until one of his eyes opened up, looking down at the poem. Then he merely closed it again.

Discord then opened his eyes to stare at the wall of books, wondering if he should eat one of them. Maybe he could eat the poem, he thought, but he realized that something that bad would probably give him indigestion.

He continued staring at the books until something slowly rose up into his vision, held up by his tail.

It was the poem.

Discord cursed his curiosity before he dropped the poem and decidedly joined his new friends in the corner, literally shrinking down to size before curling up with a look of profound sadness on his face.

"I wish I was never reformed..." Discord mewled.
_____

Later, after Pinkie Pie was the first to get out of her funk and quickly baked some cupcakes for her friends, they decided to skip their poetry session, especially when Discord volunteered to send Crona's poem into 'another dimension'. They were now currently mulling over alternative activities to help Crona and Spike bond with each other.

"Okay, since poetry's out of the question, who has some other ideas?" Twilight asked, oblivious to the shameful look on Crona's face while she asked her question.

"Anything that doesn't involve us getting sad aga-" A look from Fluttershy instantly silenced Rainbow Dash as she rolled her eyes, trying to think of a better idea "Uh, h-how about something fun? Maybe reading some Daring Do books?"

"Daring Do?" Crona blinked "Who's that?" Rainbow Dash wanted to appear shocked, but remembered where the black pony once hailed from before she donned an enthusiastic smile.

"Only the best treasure hunter ever seen in a story." She boasted "Twilight owns all of the books made so far, and I've read through each one twice."

"Oh." Crona looked down "I'm not really much of a reader."

"Neither am I, but this series is what got me into it!" Rainbow Dash countered with a grin "It's that good!"

"You must have at least one hobby, Crona." Fluttershy said before directing a hoof towards herself with a smile "My hobbies include spending time with my animals, and going to the spa with Rarity. Sometimes, all of my friends go there, too."

"I like to read, study, and socialize with my friends, but of course, you already know that." Twilight giggled sheepishly.

"Whenever I'm not making sweets, I like to make sure everypony has a smile on their face." Pinkie chimed in brightly.

"I like to exercise and practice some tricks while flying, myself." Rainbow Dash added pridefully "Though, I always love me a good nap or two."

"And I personally enjoy some chaos now and then." After all eyes were on Discord, most of which unpleasant, he cleared his throat "Of course, I also enjoy spending tea time with Fluttershy." Crona looked around at the group until its gaze focused on Spike, which made the swordpony tense up slightly.

"Wh-What about you?" Crona asked. Spike smiled as he held up a claw

"All I ever do is assist Twilight around the library and clean the place, but I also like to help Rarity dig up gems whenever she needs them. But other than that, I like to collect comic books! Oh, and I also play piano, but I barely do that." Crona perked up and looked at Spike with intrigue.

"Maka said that Soul plays piano as well." The black pony uttered with a nostalgic look on its face. Spike blinked.

"Soul? Who's he?" He asked inquisitively.

"An old friend of mine. He's Maka's weapon." Crona explained briefly. Spike stared blankly at Crona before turning to Twilight in bewilderment. The lavender unicorn giggled at his expression.

"It's complicated, but maybe we can introduce you to Crona's friends the next time we visit Canterlot." Twilight said.

"Huh. Well, anyways..." Spike turned back to Crona with a smile on his face "Maybe you're not much of a reader, but you haven't lived til you read a good comic book."

"Are they better than Daring Do?" Crona asked Spike. Before Rainbow Dash could speak up, Discord sealed her lips with a zipper with a smirk on his face.

"They're pretty good. Wanna read some?" Spike asked. Crona stared and hesitated. It felt so sudden to see a trigger of bad memories as a friend, but considering the effort everypony was putting into helping Crona overcome its fear, there wasn't any other alternative. Suppressing a shiver, the swordpony nodded with a small smile.

"S-Sure. I'd like that." Spike grinned at the answer.

"Great! Follow me. I'll lead you to my stash!" He said as he waddled toward the stairs with Crona looking. It cast a quick glance over at the others, namely an ecstatic Fluttershy, before tentatively following Spike up the stairs. After they were out of sight. Discord made Dash's zipper vanish, ignoring the baleful glare he received from his actions. Meanwhile, Twilight looked up the stairs in contentment.

"Well, I'd say that we're off to a good start, everypony." Twilight chirped "Crona might adjust to Spike faster than we realized!" Discord inspected his bird claws while he hovered in the air.

"That's good and all, Twilight, but I believe we're forgetting one more little black and grumpy obstacle." Discord said matter-of-factly. Everypony present perked up.

"Oh no, that's right! Spike hasn't seen Ragnarok yet!" Twilight nearly shouted.

"It's weird that he hasn't shown his ugly face yet. You think he's just tired or bored?" Rainbow Dash asked.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAHH!!"

The group looked up the stairs, hearing the sound of Spike screaming. Fluttershy paled slightly while Twilight's ears flopped.

"Whatever it is, we should probably go up there..."

End of Chapter 14

Chapter 15

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Chapter 15
Hidden Depths! A Friendship Forged In Fire?

Upon reaching his and Twilight's bedroom, Spike was eager to actually bond with someone willing to share his interest of comic books. He knew that he would have to take it one step at a time with Crona out of their noted fear of the purple dragon, but he was happy to do so, regardless. However, it was when he was about to search for his comics that a sudden development had taken him by surprise.

"Wh-Wh-What the heck is that thing!?" Spike stammered, shakingly pointing at the glaring growth that hovered over Crona "It just popped out of your back!"

"Don't act so surprised, idiot. Just show us your comics already!" Ragnarok barked at Spike impatiently.

"Sorry. I forgot to introduce Ragnarok to you." Crona said quietly, looking down in embarrassment.

"How long has that thing been living inside of you!?" Spike asked The three soon heard several hoofsteps outside of the room before the door opened up to reveal the other ponies and draconequus making their way inside, the ponies sporting looks of varying anxiety.

"Oh, it's you guys again." Ragnarok groaned "What do you want now?" Spike perked up and darted his head to Twilight while pointing at Ragnarok.

"You knew about this the whole time? Where was I when this thing showed up!?" He asked in shock. Twilight folded her ears back, realizing that it was a bad move on her part to forget about Ragnarok and not introduce him to Spike.

"We're very sorry about that, Spike. It's just that between Crona's inherent fear of you, Ragnarok's brief appearances, and all the things we were occupied with since yesterday, we couldn't find the time to properly introduce them to you." Twilight explained penitently.

"I guess that's fair. So, what is the story with Crona anyways? I've never seen a pony with a talking..." Spike glanced at Crona and Ragnarok before cocking his head to the side "...thing on their back before."

"I'm a demon sword, moron. Get it right!" The rude growth snarled, causing Spike to flinch.

"Wait, what!?" He blurted out before looking at Twilight once more, his gaze pleading for a coherent explanation.

"Well, to put it simply, Spike...Crona's not exactly from this world. In fact, in the world they were born in, Crona used to be what was called a human." She explained "Ragnarok was merely a sentient weapon who was integrated into Crona's body via a gruesome experiment, and he usually reveals himself whenever he feels like it."

"Only problem is that he's a total jerk most of the time." Rainbow Dash added as she shot Ragnarok a look, the two of them staring each other down.

"Whoa..." Spike looked over at Crona, who reflexively averted his gaze "Is all of this true?"

"Yeah. Sorry if I didn't bring it up sooner. I don't know how to deal with long explanations." Crona replied. It slowly looked back at Spike with a nervous glance "You're not mad, are you?" Spike arched an eyebrow at the question.

"Why would I be? I mean, I am surprised by both Ragnarok and the fact that you two are from another world, but I'm not mad about it." The purple dragon smiled "I just need to get used to you both while you try getting over your fear of me. We'll be friends in no time!" Crona gave Spike a ghost of a smile while Ragnarok merely inched down towards Spike over the swordpony's head.

"That's good and all, but where are the comics? You promised us comics!" Ragnarok said impatiently. Spike perked up and then waddled over near his bed, which appeared to resemble a pet basket, before sifting through a pile of comics. Meanwhile, Fluttershy breathed a sigh of relief.

"At least nothing bad happened." Fluttershy said with a smile "I think there could be hope from having Crona bond with Spike after all." She said before turning to the others "What's say we give them time to themselves?"

"I don't know, Fluttershy." Twilight interjected "While it's true we're seeing progress with Crona and Spike, a part of me has reservations about Ragnarok messing things up. We all know how crude and unpredictable he can be..."

"Yeah, like a certain draconequus we know." Rainbow Dash chimed in while shooting Discord a look. Discord, for his part, craned his head back with a look of mock hurt as he placed a paw on his chest.

"Moi? Surely, you don't mean that, do you?" Discord asked, feigning ignorance while Rainbow Dash merely snorted in response.

"The bottom line is," Twilight cut in while looking at Rainbow Dash and Discord "at least one of us should stay here and oversee their interaction and intervene when appropriate." Twilight said.

"Or have fun with them, at least." Pinkie piped up "Why bother watching them when you can enjoy what they like as well?"

"Well, in that case, perhaps I'll stay with Crona and Ragnarok." Fluttershy offered "After all, I'm still their caretaker, and I could take this time to know them even more while they befriend Spike." She smiled hopefully at the thought.

"Are you serious, Fluttershy!?" Rainbow Dash asked incredulously "Crona, I can understand, but you'd still be willing to put up with more of that jerk's abuse!?"

"You realize that we can here you all, right?"

The group looked at Spike, Crona, and Ragnarok, the latter two staring back at them in confusion. Spike arched an eyebrow.

"If you're wanting to stick around and read some of my comics, be my guest, but could you not badmouth Ragnarok while he's within earshot?" He requested with mild sarcasm "It's kind of annoying to talk bad about someone when they can hear everything you say."

"Preach, brother." Discord quipped with a knowing smirk.

"But Spike, what we're saying is true! He'd be lucky to even treat you like a friend, unlike Crona." Rainbow Dash defended.

"That's enough, Rainbow Dash." Fluttershy said as she trotted towards Spike, looking back at the others "I know you all have your reservations, but Spike is right: We shouldn't constantly be mean to Ragnarok when he's as much of a friend to us as Crona. All he needs is some time to adjust."

"I never said you could speak for me." Ragnarok muttered bitterly, only for Crona to glance up at him and make him silent.

"So, as I was saying, I'll stay and keep these three company." Fluttershy said warmly "It'll be nice to spend some time with them. I'll be sure to let you all know how it goes."

"If you insist, Fluttershy." Twilight said reluctantly "Just please be careful." She then turned to Ragnarok with a stern glance "As for you, Spike is a very close friend of mine, so I would appreciate it if you would treat him decently." The lavender unicorn stated firmly. She fumed when she was met with Ragnarok sticking his tongue out and placing a paw under one of his eyes, lightly dragging it down.

"Ragnarok, please behave." Fluttershy pleaded, trying to be patient with the rude growth as he irritated Twilight. She was relieved to see Ragnarok comply with a scoff.

"Just call us if that thing causes too much trouble." Rainbow Dash said before she gave Ragnarok a small glare.

"Good luck, Fluttershy!" Pinkie chimed in with a chipper grin. With that, the three ponies and draconequus left the room for the others to bond.

"So, anyways," Spike said as he held up some comics with a grin "These are some of my favorite issues of Power Ponies." He handed a comic to Crona and Ragnarok to look at "I took the liberty of giving you the first issue so you can get started, since you're interested."

"That's very nice of you, Spike." Fluttershy smiled warmly as she sat with Spike and Crona. She would have indulged in a comic or two of her own, but she was more into certain books and the foreign graphic novels that she usually reads to herself at times.

Crona tried turning the page with a hoof, but only succeeded in mildly folding the cover with each attempt. Spike noticed this and supressed a wince, while Fluttershy got near the swordpony.

"Here, Crona. Like this." She said as she smoothened the comic's cover with a hoof before delicately opening it up. Crona watched with intrigue at both Fluttershy's action and the contents inside the comic.

"Thank you." Crona said softly "It really is hard to get used to hooves when I had hands earlier." Spike blinked before he tilted his head to the side.

"What are hands? Are they like claws?" He asked. Crona nodded to the purple dragon with an affirmative hum "Huh. You know, when Discord gave you claws, that was pretty weird, but I shouldn't be coming down on you, since you and Ragnarok are from another world and all."

"No offense to this place, but I miss it back there." Ragnarok complained as he rested atop Crona's head "Things were a lot more fun, and there was more delicious food for us." He then scoffed down at Crona "Too bad this one had to play the hero, but I guess it was necessary if Maka actually beat Medusa..."

"Oh yeah." Crona replied with a smile "I'm glad that Maka's still okay after everything that happened." The swordpony hung its head down as it contemplated, not even paying attention to the comic book on the floor "In fact, if it weren't for Maka, I wouldn't have even been here, meeting Fluttershy, Discord, her friends, and..." Crona looked back up at Spike "...and you."

"I really missed out on a lot, haven't I?" Spike arched an eyebrow as he scratched his head "Who's this Medusa you're talking about?" Fluttershy looked down.

"Crona's wicked mother. I can't believe what she put her own child through..." She piped up morosely.

"I wasn't too happy with being joined with Crona, either, but I did enjoy eating souls to my hearts content that time!" Ragnarok stuck out his tongue voraciously as it was covered in drool. Spike perked up and quickly pulled away the comic in front of Crona before a drop of drool hit the floor.

"Hey! I'm not sure if you know this, but these comics are special to me." Spike said to Ragnarok, his brow furrowed. The growth merely receded his tongue before he cast an indifferent glance towards Spike.

"So?" He shot back callously.

"So the least you can do is be more careful with them!" Spike snapped in response as his eyes narrowed. Both Crona and Fluttershy noticed the growing tension and squeaked in unison before the latter sought to resolve the problem before it could grow any worse.

"Ragnarok, I know that you can be rowdy at times, but don't you think you could at least be more mindful of Spike's belongings? He was kind enough to share them with you and Crona after all." Fluttershy urged softly. Unfortunately, her plea fell on deaf ears as Ragnarok shot a glare.

"And what are you getting on my case for, huh?" Ragnarok pointed down at an embarrassed Crona "This one here did more damage than I could've done, and you didn't even raise your voice!"

"Creases on the cover page is one thing, but drool on an open page is another!" Spike countered vehemently "Twilight's got her books, I got these," He held up his comic book for emphasis "and we both take good care of our stuff!"

"Good for you. What's done is done, so why not put a lid on it, huh?" Ragnarok spat with a dismissive wave. Spike, for his part, grew more agitated as he put up with more of the demon sword's remarks.

"Ragnarok!"

Spike, and Fluttershy focused their shocked and respective gazes on Crona, who regarded Ragnarok with a light glare.

"I know you don't like everyone here, and I also know how much you bullied me back then, but could you please stop this? It's hard enough to deal with bonding with Spike when all you're doing is make them angry." Crona interjected, much to Fluttershy and Spike's surprise.

"Whoa. And here I thought Crona was just shy." Spike looked over at Fluttershy "Does this happen a lot?"

"No, this rarely happens." Fluttershy said, though she didn't take her eyes off of Crona and Ragnarok "But Ragnarok does tend to press everypony's buttons, Crona included..."

"I only went through with this because I didn't want to be afraid of Spike anymore. Couldn't you at least be nicer to him? Like you were with Maka?" Crona asked nicely. Ragnarok scoffed before looking away with his arms crossed.

"That time was different. I was at the peak of my power, and she took it all away from us." He then shifted his gaze back down at Crona "She didn't even pay me with the candy she promised when we saved her from that stupid golem."

"You fought a golem!?" Spike asked in shock before grinning "That sounds awesome!" Ragnarok looked over at Spike, and felt a faint sense of pride well up after his remark.

"Sure did. Maka was struggling for her life before turning to us for help. We really stuck it to that golem back then!" Ragnarok chuckled proudly.

"Too bad that chainsaw guy nearly got us that time, though..." Crona murmured as it pawed at the ground.

"Don't tell 'em that!" Ragnarok hissed down at Crona.

"Chainsaw guy?" Spike parroted as he cocked his head to the side. He looked over at Fluttershy, who shrugged with a confused look of her own.

"Just another guy who thought he was tough, but failed to realize that I can harden the wounds in Crona's body after each time he attacked." Ragnarok recovered. He felt proud of himself, knowing that it wasn't a lie, but also hated to be reminded of the time him and Crona nearly died.

"Wow. You can really do that?" Spike asked, visibly impressed by the story.

"Duh~!" Ragnarok responded rudely, to which he was quickly - but softly - reprimanded by Fluttershy.

"You know, a story that exciting reminds me of the time I helped Twilight save the Crystal Empire." Now it was Ragnarok's turn to be curious as he climbed over Crona's head to look down at Spike.

"You? Save an entire empire? That's kinda hard to believe." Ragnarok replied with an unconvinced glance. Spike, for his part, frowned at the demon sword's feedback.

"But it's true! I mean, even I couldn't believe it, but Twilight solved lots of puzzles and traps, and some how managed to reach this thing called the Crystal Heart, then she got trapped, but not before tossing the heart to me." He scratched his head "It's a good thing Shining Armor had the crazy idea to throw Cadence near me, or we never would've won against King Sombra." Ragnarok only stared at Spike after his story before he showed a deadpan expression.

"Now I know you're full of it. Who were the last three you brought up, anyways?" He unabashedly demanded.

"Shining Armor is Twilight's older brother, and Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, or just Cadence, is his wife." Spike then stood up with his claws curled as he tried looking menacing "Meanwhile, King Sombra was this old and evil tyrant who was good with dark magic. He enslaved the Crystal Empire 1000 years ago before Princess Celestia and Princess Luna banished him into an icy prison, although he took the Crystal Empire with him." He smiled smugly "Twilight and I saving the Crystal Empire only happened recently, of course."

"Only about a month ago, really." Fluttershy piped up "I was there along with my friends. As it turns out, it was a part of Twilight's test."

"Test? What test? A test of strength or something?" Ragnarok asked, faintly intrigued by the story despite how ludicrous it sounded to him.

"Did she pass?" Crona asked softly.

"Of course she did!" Fluttershy chirped before looking down pensively "That is, she said so after leaving the castle." She smiled at Crona "Spike and I have a lot more stories to tell if you and Ragnarok would like to listen.

"Well, I don't mind a good nap if all your gonna do is tell me some stories." Ragnarok looked away gruffly before glancing at Spike from the corner of his eye "That is, unless you actually have more exciting stories to tell, but I find that hard to believe with you." Spike took this moment to sport a challenging grin as he pointed at Ragnarok.

"In that case, strap yourself in, Ragnarok, cuz you haven't heard nothing yet!" He said proudly before he carefully set his comics aside and cleared his throat before telling his next tale.

Crona and Ragnarok listened intently to the stories Fluttershy and Spike said to them pertaining to their adventures before the duo came into Equestria themselves, including more details about Discord before he became a friend. At times, Ragnarok would bring up a rude remark, which was only met with a countered remark from Spike.

What made this better for Fluttershy was noticing not only less vitrol in Ragnarok's words than before, but Crona smiling more often than before. She couldn't wait to report to her friends on how successful the bond between Crona, Ragnarok, and Spike was.

End of Chapter 15

"I don't know how to deal with this!"

by Dirty Bit

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Interlude Chapter

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15