They say that any civilization is build on the corpses of others. Is Equestria and it's neighbors any different? Did they have to trot upon others to get where they are?
Long since the birth of the Equestria that Twilight and her friends know ,war was common place. Horrifically bloody battles between Dragons, Griffons, Changelings and ponies were an every day occurrence. To have a day with only a few thousand lost would be considered a blessing for any leader. Celestia was not yet born at the time of war but had heard of the stories from her mother. Stories that horrified her and drove her to be the compassionate leader she is.
But those days are long since over. Peace between Equestria and the Dragons Clans, Griffon Empire and even the changelings stands firm. Sure hostilities brush from time to time for any number of reasons but none wish to begin a millennium long war.
But those are just a few of the "Surviving" races of a war long since forgotten. And as many know civilizations are build on the foundations of corpses. But who's?
The Dragon's? Griffons? Changelings? Ponies? Maybe all of them?
Or is it from a race that had long since thought to be extinct? A race that was once the apex race of the planet Equis. One that was so diverse it could rival the diversity of the three pony races. With magic so strong they could have been considered gods. A race that the Griffons thought they had vanquished to secure a flank and continue the fight against the others. But could a race like the Griffons truly defeat such a foe?
As the snow melts into streams and rivers, returning moisture to the land, and sun graces the land with it's warm presence millenniums later their eyes will open. They will once again awaken and take hold of the reigns of destiny after their long slumber. They will once again take up arms and stand tall before the new world. All will hear their roars as they reclaim what is rightfully theirs. The Lizardmen are returning.
But it has been a long time, things have changed... They have changed.
The sun rose over the shimmering peaks of Griffon Empire's mountain ranges. The snow caps gleamed brilliantly as they refracted multicolored rays of light into the valleys below. A large overhanging section of snow gave way to the sun's warmth and plummeted into the rivers below with a spectacular splash, sending a gout of water into the air. A sign signaling the beginning of spring was here. Were the snow turned to rivers and greenery returned with healthy and colorful blossoms.
For Equestira this meant farmers would be hard at work in their fields but for Griffons it meant hunting season was almost back in season. For many griffons it was the best time of the year. Hunting packs would be formed to track game both large and small. The season was not so much about hunting as it was a chance to get closer to friends, families and even complete strangers. It was not uncommon for new bonds to be forged while on the long hunts in the southern jungles. The place had a reputation to even forge some... Longer term relationships. Such moments shared in the steamy hot jungle between male and female, influenced by the prowlers of the night and the strange flora. It was easy to be overcome by primal senses and... Obtain, a partner over night,
However the snow and frigid bite of the air was still present in the jungles mists suggested it would be wise to wait, unless you wanted to freeze to death at night. In the mean time they would continue friendly interactions with their neighbor Equestria.
The two species had always nearly been polar opposites but relations had never been better. Trade was booming and that meant happiness was as well. Because of generous education plans from Equestria the language barrier was crossed easily and the griffons even adopted the "bits currency" just to make things easier. It was a good time to be alive in this era. Or so they thought.
Little did anyone know that powerful and ancient spells had finally worn off from the great war thousands of years ago, and as a direct result something was stirring beneath the surface. It would be some time before it would fully awake but at the moment nothing is being done to stop it, and they may regret it later. But for know they will sleep in the cold darkness.
Meanwhile thousands of miles away in a small town well known for it's constant destruction.
Ponyville had just entered it's "Winter Wrap up." with it's new appointed manger, Twilight Sparkle. Unlike last year she had taken extreme measures to make sure Everything went according to plan. It was still early in the morning but to her it was never too early to "check list" her check list.
"Organized in accordance with air and ground teams..." She quickly scanned the list with her eyes and nodded with a grin. "Check."
She continued to go over her list that, in great detail, displayed her plans. She had found the perfect and most efficient way to complete the tasks at hoof on time. As she would explain it: "It is merely a matter of top to bottom and multi-tasking", and she was completely correct. With her plan she could make winter wrap up at least two hours shorter or if her math was correct, and she knew it was, 20.223, repeat of course, percent faster.
"I do have to take into account the southern birds..." she murmured, tapping a hoof against her chin, remembering a certain grey pegasus. "Ah.... I'm sure she'll be fine."
Her rambling went on for another hour as she continued to plan for the Perfect Winter wrap up. Everything was set and nothing could ruin it. NOTHING!
"Hey Twilight!" Pinkie shouted, appearing from the rafters.
Twilight shirked and out of surprise, teleported herself several feet into the air. She came down directly on her rump and yelp at the pain.
"Pinkie!" The sore flanked mare shouted. "Don't scare me like that!"
"Oh I'm sorry Twilight!" Pinkie gasped. "I should have said good morning!"
Twilight face hoofed. "That's hardly the problem." She murmured with a defeated sigh. "But what are you doing here so early?"
"I had a doozy!" She exclaimed, while beating a hoof on her chest with a proud smirk.
"A doozy?" Twilight repeated, clearly confused.
"Yup!" The upbeat party pony confirmed.
Twilight merely starred at her while her brain translated. It took her slightly groggy mind ten hole seconds to realize what she meant, and when she did, it was not accepted with calmness and clarity.
"Pinkie Sense!" She blurted out.
"Hmmhmm!" Pinkie confirmed a second time. "You told me to come to you if I ever had one that could be very bad."
"And was it!"
"Was it?!" Pinkie Exclaimed, not noticing her friends overloading distress, "It was the worst one I've ever had!" and making sure it got worse. "It's like at least seven times more of a doozy then a hydra. No! eighteen times! This could be the worst tragedy to befall all of Equestria perhaps even all of Equis!"
"That's terrible! What will hap... Wait, could?" Twilight asked picking up the uncertain word.
"Well you see... I've never had one like that before so I'm... not... sure." Pinkie back away from an angry looking Unicorn as she slowly advanced.
"Pinkie," She was not angry but border line of a break down. Pinkie could tell by the sudden cowlick that protruded from the side of her head. "I need you to be absolutely certain about this. Will this ruin my perfect Winter wrap up!?" She had nearly slurred the word. For any to be less then that word was a sin in her eyes, her crazy blood shot eyes.
"T-Twilight... You're scaring me..." Pinkie shrunk a bit under the pressure.
Twilight snapped out of her trance upon hearing her friends uncharitably sad words. She shook her head from side to side, banishing the offending thoughts.
"I'm... sorry Pinkie. I guess I still have a long way to go to get over my phobia." Twilight sighed. "But do you think this 'doozy' will be a problem?"
"Hmm? I don't think so." Pinkie tapped her hoof in contemplation.
"Are you sure?"
"Call it a hunch." Pinkie winked causing Twilight to giggle.
"Well your hunches are good." She laughed trotting up to the door. "What do you say we get this Winter Wrap Up on the go?"
"Yay!" The Pink mare cheered. She excitedly bounced out after Twilight to meet the rest of the town.
The snow crunched under their hooves as one casually walk and the other bounced. Pinkie was already wearing her blue weather team vest and had her skates slung around her neck. She happily hummed a tune as she followed twilight who, although happy, had a sense of alertness about her. Thankfully the trot to town square continued uneventfully where most of the town was already gathered.
Everypony in town looked almost as energetic as Pinkie for the welcoming of spring. Small scarfs and boots decorated their multi-colored coats. Smiles and friendly conversation filled the atmosphere with such a welcoming tone it could be considered contagious. Even the most stubborn mules would find themselves smiling on this day, which they were.
Silence and attentiveness only came when a mare of neutral coat color and grey mane graced the podium. She sported a pair of reading glassed with spectacles so small, one might wonder if they were of any use. She was Mayor Mare.
As she strode to the podium why she was easy to understand she was the mayor. It was in the way she walked, both purposeful and confident, but it was not only that. Her deep blue eyes possessed wisdom that could only be obtained through experience. To say she was old would be to dig your own grave. Contrary to public belief she was only thirty two but had the curse of prematurely gray hair, which led to misunderstandings.
"Good Morning everypony," She greeted with her signature accent. " As you all know it is that time of year again. The time we say goodbye to the snow and cold, and welcome back the warm spring. I'm sure you all had your fun with family and friends, frolicking in the snow or lazing about by the warm fire. I know I have." Everypony chuckled a bit to the mayor's joke, but quickly settle so she could continue. "But now it is time to wrap up winter and get to work. Now before I hand over the podium to our newly appointed coordinator I would like to thank you all for coming, and to most of all have fun!" The thunderous sound of stomping hooves followed the mare of the stage and at the same time welcomed the lavender unicorn.
She came to a stop at the podium and plopped down a rather sizable stack of cards. A few groans swept through the crowd. They all knew Twilight fairly well and respected her, but they did not share her enthusiasm with "perfection."
Despite hearing the groans, Twilight cleared her throat... and tossed the stack of cards on the ground. Everypony held their breath as what they though was Twilight smiled at them. "Good morning everypony," She cheerfully giggled, causing sever stallions spines to rattle with uncertainty. "I hope you all slept well because we have a lot of work ahead of us. You all know what teams you will be on and the list leaders, as well as the sub leaders, can be found on the news board outside of town hall. It is imperative that sub-leaders receive guidance from leaders to hoof down to the rest of the teams. Detailed instruction will be passed down from me to the leader then sub-leaders and vice versa, and just as the mayor said let's have fun and make this the best Winter Wrap Up we can!"
Hooves thundered as more as Twilight made her exit, filler her heart with joy.
"Top of tha' morin' to ya Twi." A fare to familiar accent greeted.
"Good Morning Applejack!" Twilight returned with excitement. "As punctual and reliable as ever. I whish Rainbow could be the same, but where's Fluttershy?"
The sunset farm pony scratched her mane with one hoof as if it could help her find the Information. "She said somthin' bout one of he're animals findin' some poor critter real hurt."
"Oh, well I hope the poor thing is all right."
"Ah ain't one for what ever vermin she's helpin' but ah'm with ya there." Applejack smiled and tipped her hat.
"Hey guys!" A blur of colors slide by The mares and skidded to a halt a few feet away. "AH YA!" She cheered. "Faster then ever!"
Twilight gave her hot headed friend a 'tsk'. "And yet still late."
"Ya whatever." Rainbow casually dismissed." So we gonna get this winter on the wraps?"
"Well Fluttershy might be a little late... But I can fill Colgate in till she arrives." Twilight showed her two friends present her master plan. " This is the "Top to Bottom" layout." Twilight pulled out a large parchment filled with numbered pictures and instructions." Rainbow to split with will split the teams you have in two, teams seven to twelve will take the trees and roofs, There job is to clear them before ground teams begin clearing the streets. Your team and teams two through six. will clear the skies."
"Alright sounds good! You can count on us." Rainbow saluted. "But shouldn't I send someone to fetch the birds too? You know, multitasking."
Twilight smiled enthusiastically. "I have already taken that into account. And that's why Ditzy Do will go get them."
Both of here friends starred blankly at her, waiting for her to deliver the punchline of the joke. When nothing but silence came Applejack and Rainbow raised a brow.
"Wait, you're serious?" Rainbow asked, unable to contain her disbelief.
"What?" Twilight frowned. "What's wrong with it?"
"It's Derpy." Rainbow said plainly. "Remember what happened last time?"
"That... Was just a small mistake."
"She went north Twi." The rainbow pegasus pointed out. "You know the opposite direction!"
"Well I'm sure she will get it this year, right AJ?"
The farm pony gave Twilight a nervous smile. "Well Twi..."
"Aw come one AJ!" Twilight pleaded. "I know she can do it she just needs some friendly reassurance."
"If ya say so Twi..."
"Great! Now onto the next part of the plan. Pinkie and her team..."
A lone cloud hung in the sky, glorified by dazzling sun beams. Fluffy as any other and butter gold in color it remained motionless in the vast blue sky. That is until a beam of rainbow, travailing at the speed of sound, absolutely eradicating the poor cloud.
The rainbow projectile responsible carried on in an arc towards a group of pegasi and came to a halt. This revealed an equally Rainbow themed pegasus who in turn smirked at the others. "Alright skies clear." she declared, haughtily throwing her mane back. "Let's go help with the roofs."
The ponies all cheered and dived down to the town below. The other teams welcomed them with mock salutes and smiles as they descended to aid them. Carts were immediately placed on the edges of roofs and under small trees to gather the snow vacated from them. The snow was quickly and effectively removed from every roof and haled away by some sturdy earth ponies. Upon seeing this Rainbow soared into the sky. The higher she rose the more speed she picked up it was only a matter of time before...
BOOM
The sky was lite with a burning aurora of colors as if it were an inferno. The small ring of color spread quickly and exploded outwards, covering all of Ponyville.
On the ground many earth pony leaders recognized the signal and blew their whistles. This signaled many orders that varied per group. For applejack it meant the seeds may be planted in the fields that were already cleared. For Pinkie and her team it meant cutting through the ice in a grid pattern. All over the town ponies performed as instructed to complete winter wrap up without a hitch.
The only team lagging behind was the animal divisions. Fluttershy had only shown up three hours into winter wrap up and seemed terribly distracted. She kept murmuring to herself in a worried tone and pacing from time to time. But never the less she and her teams managed.
"Trees are clear Twilight!" Rainbow reported. "That was the last thing my teams were doing."
"Great!" Twilight put a check on her list. "Now all that's left for pegasi are the southern birds!"
"Ya great." Rainbow rolled her eyes. "Why don't I send someone else now so we will at least finish on time."
"She'll be here Rainbow." Twilight reassured with a smile. "I'm sure of it!:
"Whatever." Rainbow turned around only to bump into a black pegasus.
"Dammit!" The mare shouted, rubbing her snout. "What did I tell you about sanding behind me!"
Twilight sighed as Rainbow gave the poor stallion a verbal lashing. She actually remembered the pegasus by name too, one Thunder Lane. It was also to her understanding that he had a crush on her rainbow friend. Twilight gave one last look at the furious mare and shook her head.
"And she has no clue." She thought bitterly.
She soon left the scene to make sure if every thing else was in order. She passed through the cleared town streets with bight smile on her face. She glade to see the town all ready for spring when she spied two familiar ponies. Rarity? Fluttershy With her curiosity peaked she trotted over.
Rarity had a look of worry on her face while she conversed with an equally, or arguably, more worried Fluttershy.
"Ah Twilight!" Rarity called. "Fluttershy was just telling me the most disastrous news!"
Twilight grimaced only pondering the implications of the words. "What happened?" She asked wryly.
"It's that poor creature Beary found." Fluttershy answered. "The poor thing was cold and limp and Beary brought him to me. I'm just worried sick about the little guy."
"I'm sorry to hear that." Twilight said as sincerely as possible. "What kind of animal was it?"
"It was... It was..." Fluttershy paused for a moment. "I guess it was kinda like... like a... You know, I actually have no idea what it was." She said in disbelief. "I've never seen anything like it before."
Both mares paused to take in what she just said. Fluttershy who lived just on the edge of the Everfree was renowned for her knowledge and handling of animals. She was the pony to see about any animal, whether it be a bunny or a manticore. To even consider there was a animal she had no knowledge of would be outlandish. But here it was, the moment was upon them and they had no clue what to say.
"I think I should check on the poor dear just to be safe." She said apprehensively retreating behind her mane.
"I'll come with you." Twilight informed. "The last thing that really needs to be done is the southern birds anyway. Are you coming Rarity?"
The unicorn shook her head. "Unfortunately no. However sorry and curious I am for the poor thing I have an important order to finish."
"It's okay Rarity, I'll see you later and good luck." Fluttershy and Twilight waved at her, parting ways.
As the two made their way out of town Twilight listened with great interest on what Fluttershy could remember about the animal. So far she learned that it was about the size of Apple Jack's dog Winona, It was blue and , from what she described, was wearing some strange bands on it's paws and neck.
"So it's already somepony's pet?"
"I don't think so Twilight..." Fluttershy stopped and her eyes opened wide. "Oh I'm so stupid!" She stomped a hoof in frustration.
"What is it Fluttershy?" Twilight asked out of concern for her normally timid friend.
"He's was hibernating Twilight." She said in a more upbeat voice. "He's scaly and hibernating so it's a Lizard, but that's why he wasn't moving. He was sleeping." Fluttershy visibly breathed a sigh of relief.
"A reptile you say?" Twilight said rather intrigued with the new information. "Not many of those around."
After Fluttershy's realization she hurried back to her cottage with a warm heart and a smile on her face. Twilight was also in higher spirits now that her friend was happier and rushed with her. Their modest rush soon changed into a hearty jog and shortly into a full on joyous gallop. Twilight had never seen Fluttershy so happy to actually take off to a full gallop but was happy herself to join.
The duo soon reached Fluttershy's cottage and were graced with a beautiful sight. In a flurry of chirping and color a large flock of multi-colored birds passed over head. Like a wave the feathered beings soared through the sky with a very unlikely leader. At the flocks head was grey pegasus with a blond mane. She was simply beaming with happiness as she waved to Twilight, who waved back with Fluttershy.
"I knew you could do it!" She shouted up to her.
"THANK YOU TWILIGHT!" She yelled back down and then lead the birds into Ponyville.
The two mares smiled and giggled together as they approached the door. It really was the perfect Winter Wrap Up.
The creature's chest slowly expanded and contracted as he breathed. It's small body lied curled up in front of the roaring fire of the fireplace. Orange flames danced alone the burning logs in a display of primitive energy and gentle warmth. The timber logs crackled and snapped under the heat, rousing the small creature from winter's paralyzingly grasp.
Gradually, it's eyes opened, revealing a pair of yellow irises. The inferno in front of his face was still a blur of orange and red but eventually came into focus. Lifelessly he stared into it with a blank mind but with his vision restored his mind soon followed.
"I have awoken."
After the rather short sentence it's mind conjured there was nothing, it remained void of any thoughts as if hollow. It simply stared into the hot coals of the fire, watching motionlessly as they glowed. It was waiting for something.
After a few minutes of waiting and absorbing the heat of the fire several things came to it's mind.
The first, it remembered that he was in a cave while he slept, not in some wood construct. Second, he had not heard a peep from his more rowdy brothers, which was quite odd. The third and last thought was one that brought the reptile into full alert. He was most defiantly far from where he was supposed to be.
With one ballistic motion, he was back on his feet. His fin flared, presenting a translucent sunset orange surface. He brought his teeth to bare as he hissed and scoured his new surroundings for any form of threat. He rotated his body 180 degrees at a time, unwavering in his resolve to seek out threats. Everything about where he was was alien and thus, in his mind, a potential threat.
Although in full alert, it's more creative tenancies surface in his mind as he analyzed the room. As he found the floor he stood on was made of wood planks arranged in uneven patterns running in one direction, It cocked it's head in confusion. Why would anyone choose to built with something so inferior as wood when they could use strong stone? Wood was by far weaker and had the disadvantages of being flammable, to built a construction with it as a base would be foolish.
Shaking his head at the poor choice for the floor he set his eyes to the walls and support beams. As he did so what could be translated as a frown crossed his face. They were made of wood. He found himself further disappointed by the strange structure and nearly hissed out of anger when he looked up.
"By the knowledge of the Old Ones! who builds only using wood?!"
It was then another log crackled behind him reminding him that there was a fire behind him. His blue body leaped forward from it, thinking that the building was already set a flame. To his relief the fire was contained within a stone frame and was unlikely to spread.
"It seems one thing was done correctly."
Realizing he was not in immediate danger of burning to death, at least not yet (he still had little confidence in the structure.), he observed the rest of the chamber. There some curious 'pieces' laid around the room that he had no names for, or any idea of purpose. He did however find something to catch his reptilian eyes. He slowly moved over to a wall decorated by dozens of small squares and rectangles. They all contained icons of some rather uninteresting warm blooded animals. What he found so interesting about them was how accurate they were. The creatures transcribed inside the frames looked as they would in the flesh.
"I wonder what strange magic could accomplish such a feat?" He thought, impressed. "Something like thi would have a place among us, perhaps even in Great Plan."
Unease tugging at the awed lizard brought him back to reality. He forcefully dismissed the impressively realistic picture and cautiously carried on. Slowly but surely he sneaked over to one of the other sources of light in the room. One of the circles embedded in the wooden walls. However he was soon reminded of his species disadvantage. He was a Skink and unlike his more powerful Saurus brethren, he lacked their height and physical prowess on the battlefield. He starred up at the circle,wishing he was just an inch taller, then he would at least be the minimal height required to set his eyes above the ledge.
However vexing it was to have his height mock him again, he kept his mind at the task at hand. Skinks were always revered as the back bone of Lizardmen society, often the brains behind every construction project, crafted item and military operation.
To add to his confidence, he was no ordinary Skink. Although all the symbols of his authority were gone he was still powerful. With a crackle of magical energy, and a flash of light in his eyes, several assorted items lifted off the ground. It was seconds later that they formed into a small set of steps at his feet.
Confidently, he took the first step up and the source of his interest came into view, and much to his surprise, he saw his way out. The forest was a welcoming sight for the priest but he could not help but feel it was different, but that would be a thought for later, for now he needed to reach it's concealing canopy if he wanted any chance of survival. From there he would find his brothers and figure out what exactly was going on.
Still weakened by his recent awakening he crawled into the cut in ledge. His body's weakness would have brought him back to the floor if the wood was not soft enough for his claws to dig in. This was the first time he was thankful for the wooden structure.
Moments later he was crouched within the restricting frame. His freedom was just a short drop and a quick sprint away at that point, had he not immediately connected his face with an insensible barrier.
Surprised and miffed that his escape was being hampered further, he back away as far that the ledge would allow, which was not much. He starred into the space inches from his nose, the space was empty but he did notice a strange glare. With a cautious and calculative motion he pressed one claw against the barrier.
With a high pitched clink his claw sounded as contact was established.
"I have underestimated this structures creators," He thought, retracting his claw. "but I grow tired of these obstructions."
His eyes flashed again and the barrier shattered under the immense force imposed upon it. Having grown impatient, or just in the heat of the moment, the small blue reptile dived outside so that he may make haste to his brothers. With any luck they would be close by.
The Skink Priest hit the ground after a shower of transparent material and took his first step forward.
Well that is what he wanted to do but instead he fell to his knees. The crisp cold air easily pierced his scaly hide, stealing his motor control from him. Winter, although gone to the eye, was still present in the air. He had been too rash and was now paying the price.
His body crumbled and curled into a ball against all this commands and protests. Seconds latter he lost all feeling of his limbs as his body began to shut down. He fought to keep his eyes open, but even that was futile. His eyes fluttered and his vision blurred, signaling that his time among the waking world was almost up. The last thing he saw was a large brown blur slowly trudging towards him.
He had his doubts he would awaken ever again.
After waving at their proud Mailmare, Twilight followed her friend to the door. She had a brilliant smile upon her face after seeing Ditzy so happy and she only grew more excited about this creature Fluttershy spoke of.
A reptile was by far the most alien thing to be roaming under these weather conditions and the way her friend described it's appearance was certainly strange. To have a fin atop it's head would imply a more aquatic life style. To be out of the water, during winter no less, just made no sense. Nevertheless Twilight was determined to find the answers. It was in her nature as a scholar.
"Please come in Twilight." The Butter pegasus beckoned.
Twilight followed her friend into the welcoming home with a scattered mind. Thoughts racing with the possibility of wonder of the creature she would soon meet. However as Fluttershy closed the door behind her Twilight's mind picked up on something strange, something magical.
Twilight's ears perked up at the strange sensation. "What is magic residue doing here?"
Twilight only briefly pondered the out of place magic. Her thoughts where effectively and Fluttershy gasped sharply.
"My window's broken!" She shrieked, rushing over to it.
Twilight followed, clearly displaying her shock. The window was indeed broken. Glass scattered on the floor and window still like small mirrors glittering in what light was present. Fluttershy opted to use her wings while Twilight cautiously avoided stepping on the sharp objects.
Fluttershy reached the window first and gasp once again at a small stain. It was small but what was concerning was the color. Dried and red with a faint smell of iron. Twilight grimaced as she recognized the stain as blood.
"Oh no!" Fluttershy screamed again. "He's gone!"
A ways out of Ponyville a brown bear trudged through the sludge of the Everfree. Partially melted snow compressed under the great creatures weight as he went along. The bear's name was dull claw but he was known to be called 'Beary The Bear' thanks to a certain pink maned pegasus.
He had left the warmth of Fluttershy's cottage about an two hours ago setting out for a destination unknown to him. All he had to go on was the directions of a small drowsy lizard, currently blanketed, on his back. Whenever Beary was in need of directions, or if the reptile decided he was going the wrong way, a feeble squawk would sound and a sickly clawed appendage would protrude from the blanket, pointing in the appropriate direction.
Under normal circumstances. Beary would not take orders from anyone except Fluttershy. He would simply lounge about her cottage, eat fish, sleep and do absolutely nothing. When Beary watched the creature awaken from outside a window he quickly grew uninterested in it. It was small, weak and drowsy from it's hibernation. Something he should have been doing at that very moment. With the reminder he had planned to get some more shut I but the reptile had other plans.
Hours earlier
Beary was about to tuck himself in for a nice nap between his favorite tree and bush when he heard glass shatter. Being the natural protector of the estate he marched towards the disturbance. The sound came from the far side of the house and he was forced to grumpily walk around. He was not too surprised when he rounded the corner to find a small blue lizard curled up on the cold ground. With a sigh he reluctantly set out for the shed.
He quickly rummaged through the shed's dusty interior in search of a rug or cloth to shield the creature from the cold. He never realized how many pointy tools Fluttershy owned until he opened the door. She owned several shovels of different shapes and sizes, axes, pickaxes, rakes, weeding hoes and the list just went on and on. To top it off many where loose or unsecured and the smallest disturbance would bury a pony in a grave of gardening tools. It was no wonder she kept others away from the death trap.
Thankfully Beary spotted what he was looking for near the entrance. With little difficulty he retrieved a small square blanked of mismatched patches of fabric. It looked old and was far from anything one would buy nowadays but it would suffice. Besides he doubted the lizard had something as useless as a fashion sense.
When Beary returned the blue lizard was still where he had left it, which was to be expected, but still was a relief just the same. As gently as he could he lifted the frail reptile, encased in the blanket, onto his back. Once the small reptile was secured he set out for his favorite spot. He would get Fluttershy to let him in when she returned.
At last Beary let out a long yawn as he laid in this favorite spot. He lowered himself to the ground and prepared to drift off into the realm of dreams. His consciousness was quickly slipping away and his muscles relaxing he would soon be asleep.
Small wisps of wind pushed against his body creating s tiny wave effect with his fur. The sensation was soothing and very much welcome. The way the air rustled the leafless tree produced a pleasing groan and tick when bark met bark. The even tempo rolled through the air, calming his nerves. To his right the bush made it's own unique sound with the wind. With tightly clustered branches it sounded much like the pitter patter of a rain. Rapid and quite, setting his mind to ease. Beary could feel himself melting away in the wonderfully serene moment. The sun's rays warmed his fur to the touch with it's delightful light.
Unable to take it any long he drifted into sleep.
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"HISSSS!"
Beary's eyes shot wide open as he howled in surprise to the feeling of several small strikes on his back. The Lizard repeatedly dug his sharp claws into his thick coat, showing no real results of damage. In response to the ineffective strikes Beary reared up onto his hind legs in an attempt to dislodge his attacker.
After a few more slashes the assailant launched himself into the air, taking the blanked with him. Beary did not even bare his fangs before the humorously cloaked lizard took off at a break neck speed. The blur of color disappeared into the partially leafless brush of the unnatural Everfree forest.
Slightly confused and startled, Beary continued to stare at the place the lizard ran into.
"I have to go get him, don't I?"
Lizardmen Lore
Species: Skinks
Shorter and leaner than Saurus, Skinks are less physically strong their cousins, but make up for it with their higher amount ability to understand abstract concepts, and perform complex tasks. Though completely loyal to the Slann, the Skinks often act independently of them, directing the other Lizardmen to ensure to smooth everyday running of life in the temple-city, deferring to the Saurus only in times of war.
Like other Lizardmen, a Skink's skin is of a blueish tone, though not as scaly and thick as that of a Kroxigor or Saurus. Skink's buggish eyes, rows of razor sharp teeth, and large, fleshy extendable crest on the top of it's head make it an unnerving foe to face. However the primary purpose of the crest is to enhance communication, and subtle movements and hue changes allow the Skinks to easily communicate silently before attacking an unaware enemy, or issue complex instructions to another.
Naturally aquatic creatures, Skinks make up for their lack of resilience by being equally at home in the water or on land. Able to stay underwater for large periods of time, and being excellent swimmers has led to an affinity with the Kroxigors, who despite their large size are similarly at home in the swamps and rivers of the Lizardmen. The two often fight in mixed units - the smaller Skinks acting as a screen for their larger and less intelligent allies.
Despite their status as artisans - not warriors; in times of war Skinks form up in regiments and skirmishing units beside Kroxigors and stalwart Saurus infantry to defend the temple cities. Though substantially more skittish (despite being cold blooded) than Saurus, Skinks are much more versatile and have learnt to tame the beasts of the jungle and to direct them in battle against the foes of the Lizardmen. Thus it is the Skinks who ride giant Stegadons, and form flying Terradon Raider units to harass the enemy from the air. Skinks also prod packs of the vicious Salamanders and Razordons into their foe.
Deep within the forests murky interior a rather humorously dressed lizard ran. His once break neck pace had slowed to a painful trudge, with slow lumbering motions the Priest dragged himself through the cold grime and muck. Unlike outside the floor outside it was moist and most unwelcome. With every labored step the cold sunk its ravenous fangs into his scaly hide, draining what little remained of his energy. At the rate he was going he would collapse soon if he did not find any shelter.
The forest was uncharacteristically silent. He could only hear the slush of every damp piece of flora he strode upon. The forest was almost completely still and void of all life this early out of winter.
He thought himself lucky. If any predator were to attack him in such a state he would surely fall. Counting his blessing he found the strength to carry on.
Meekly, he forcefully dug his claws into the hard bark of a felled tree. With every ounce of strength his weakened body could muster he began to pull himself up. Slowly he lifted his figure up the behemoth of a tree. Every time he placed his feet onto its surface they slipped, causing them to flail about, making the effort all the more difficult, but he was determined and went so far as to sink it's teeth into the rotten wood to gain another pivot point. In doing so he even managed to heave himself onto the tree like a confused lemur.
Not out of breath, but nearly out of energy, the skink slid down the other side. He briefly felt the rush of wind but that was quickly followed by the cold greeting of mud. He once again lost control of his body and fell face first into the unpleasant substance. His body voluntarily contacted to maintain some warmth.
"I have failed... This is as far as I go."
*PLOP*
Beary ears shot up when he heard the faint splash in the still forest. He hurried his pace expecting to find what he sought, and sure enough he did.
There on the muddy forest floor was a tasteless blanket. As mismatched as ever it's color clashed violently with the dark gunk surrounding it. A small bulged rested under it rising as the creature breathed.
"Foolish Lizard."
With little difficulty, but much more mud, Beary secured the lizard on his back for a second time. Beary grimaced at the feeling of the forest mud on his back but shrugged it off.
He only had just began to walk, when he felt a series of familiar claws sink into his fur.
"I swear, If he claws me again I'm leaving him."
Beary looked over his shoulder and met the yellow eyes of the lizard. It had poked it's little blue head out and stared at him. Beary peered back into his eyes feeling something was amiss. It was a look he knew all too well.
As the protector of Fluttershy's land, he witnessed many new arrivals in the animal shelter. The desperation painting more than half of them. To see the same face on the reptile was concerning.
"I am bringing you to a safe place." Beary said in a series of deep growls and whines.
The Reptile however only croaked once and feebly pointed deeper into the forest.To Beary his eyes looked to be desperate , if that was even possible for a lizard, as it continued to pleadingly prod it's claw in an unknown direction.
"Is your home that way?"
The reptile showed no signs of acknowledgement.
"..." Beary weigh his options.
Any part of the Everfree was dangerous regardless of what you are. Even as a large bear he would be easy pickings for others beasts within its depths. Not only are the predators dangerous but the flora can be lethal. Some have been known to consume entire wolfs. There was also the possibility of getting lost when one goes deeper into the maze of century old wood. Even with some creatures still in hibernation the risk's would be high.
"I may regret this..." Beary sighed taken the next few steps that would take him much farther than he had ever been.
Meanwhile thousands of miles to the west, in a forest not like the Everfree, all life was still. With the southern birds returned to their homes in the northern hemisphere, things had settle down significantly, like every year around this time. Some of the smaller creatures had already awoken and begun to scrounge up what food they could find. Some of the larger creatures like the manticores and dire wolves were also up and about, already cutting out their territory in the lush jungle. These zones would quickly become a bone yard in the coming months.
Even with all the natural routines that the forest had undergone going for hundreds of years, something was wrong.
It was too quiet.
Even with most of the birds gone it was far too quiet. No chirping or squawking from the local avians, which was very unlike them (they usually rejoiced when their northern brethren returned home.), no furious roars as competing predators fought over which set of identical trees belonged to them, not even the smallest peep from a mouse.
All was silent, but more so in one place. A place long since lost to the Griffons that hunted these grounds and longer yet to the world.
In the densest parts of the forest one could find nothing but trees that reached hundreds of feet into the sky. With trunks reaches up to a quarter of a kilometer in width. These were the oldest behemoths the world had to offer. Older than Celestia herself these trees stood tall and unwavering to the tests of time.
No rustle of leaves could be heard from the branches hundreds of feet above the floor of roots and overgrowth. A place where only time could touch...
It is understandable why he would make an appearance.
Slowly, and seemingly out of nowhere, a strange and out of place noise came into existence. Where the noise came from a large rectangle began to form, as if fading into the world. Seconds later it was clearly visible as a blue box. ”Police Public Call Box” It displayed in bold white letters, bordering the top of the strange object.
Silence returned when the device finished its loud obnoxious whining. However it was short lived as the set of double doors swung open with the painful screech of unoiled hinges.
“Oh!” Exclaimed a pony, exiting the doors. “A bit off the mark, but this will do fine!”
The lone pony that stood there was perhaps one of the plainest ones in existence. With a simple tan coat and dark brown mess of a mane, it gazed in awe at it's surroundings, with a slight wind licking at his mane.
"Well just look at you!" The fascinated stallion exclaimed once more. "You're beautiful!"
With an excited smile, he trotted up to one of the many mighty roots. His green tie swayed back and forth as he moved with an energetic hope in his step. Upon his flank was his mark, an hourglass.
"Simply fantastic!" He enthused running his hooves over the ancient wood. "You must be older than I am."
The odd pony continued its excited rambling for a few minutes, touching everything as he did so. His exceedingly strange behavior was however misleading. Despite his behavior his guard was not down, far from it in fact. He was very much aware that he was being watched.
"Well then," He said smiling. "Better get to work then."
He reached into one of the pockets on his hindquarters (yes ponies have pockets) and withdrew a shiny smooth cylinder. The cylinder was then placed in his mouth as he trotted up to different points in the area. The strange device would emit a low hum every time he pointed and activated it, turning the thing he scanned a dim blue. He repeated the pattern many times, constantly murmuring senselessness phrases to himself. To anypony he would appear to be a madpony with a big blue box, which he would neither confirm or deny, but there was always a reason to his madness.
"The energy levels should not be this high," He scanned another root. "Matter is just frizzling with it! Fantastic!"
The nameless pony continued to randomly survey the area with great interest. The source of his enthusiasm was so unfounded, and seemingly endless, he could no doubt continue for hours...
Which he did.
Hours past and, what little light penetrated the dense branches above, faded. The overgrown floor was dim enough as it was but with the coming of night it would soon be in total darkness.
Hell bent on finding whatever it was he was looking for, the brown pony hurried back into his blue box. A few crashes could be heard from the box as he rummaged through what lied inside. It was only seconds later he emerged with a set of flood light strapped to his back and an electrical cord hanging from his mouth.
Swiftly he erected the towers around the area. After taking a moment to untangle himself he galloped back to the box.
Soon the pillars came to life with a click and the surrounding area was bathed in bright light.
"Alright then," The earth pony began. "Where was I?" He paused, placing a contemplating hoof below his chin. "Ah yes... You." He pointed a hoof at the largest tree in front of him.
In response the tree... did nothing because it is a tree.
"Yes you... It's you!" He exclaimed. "You are what keeps this place the way it is. There is no other explanation."
The behemoth of ancient bark continued to do what trees do. Nothing.
"How else could this place be so powerful? The very energy that runs through those roots is outstanding! It's as powerful as my Tardis in it's own way. But that not I either! Those bodies of your's are massive."
The pony paused a moment. "And no I'm not calling you all fat. They are simply down right fantastic! But.. that's just it. With bodies like those how is it I can feel this slight breeze. Why there must be a thirty hoof wall encasing this place. With an obstruction like that there should be no wind, and yet here it is." As if to confirm his observation his mane brushed slightly to one side.
"And by the way, it feels great, But let's get to the final point. All that power has got to go somewhere or you would not be here. You would have left a smoldering crater with even a tenth of that energy. And a big one at that, so where is all that power going hmm? Cause I find it hard to believe it goes to this simple breeze, or some kind of pheromone to keep animals away.
"Oh no! Something else is doing that. Something that all the creature either respect or fear far too much. So much so that they would never dare enter this place. That's why I have not been attacked yet. I broke nearly every rule on how to survive in the jungle and yet... here I stand, unharmed. But what possible being could leave such an effect on the animal kingdom? And where did it go?
"So how about? What are you so keen on hiding that would require all that energy?"
A long silence followed after the ponies rant, as if he had not spoken at all. That faint breeze he spoke of earlier.
However much to his pleasure the tree... stopped being a normal tree.What was once a calm and tranquil space of serenity, was now a ocean of movement and activity. With powerful forces unknown to him the tree's massive roots parted. The ground rumbled and cracked as they forced their way through the earth, splitting it. Once immobile vines, slithered away like thousands of snakes, who have grown tired of each other over the centuries.
Several of the pony's lights toppled over with such the great forces at work. The tremors brought brilliant smiles to the pony's face as he watched in awe.
He began to laugh joyously. "Magnificent" He praised, fighting to maintain his balance.
The creeping vines gave way to decorative stone walkways and head high walls. All were aged and heavily weathered but the mastery carved into every inch was clear. Ridged and clean the cuttings ran down the path way leading the largest tree.
Once the rumbling subsided, the brown pony found himself even more impressed. An ancient civilization laid before his eyes. One that may have not been explored for thousands of years. All for him to explore and uncover.
His sense of adventure kicked in right away, as he made an immediate left. Nearly pressing his face to the stone he eyed up the carvings in the walkway.
"It's hieroglyphic!" He cheered. "Oh that's brilliant!"
As thrilled as he was the earth pony moved cautiously around the area. Everything about the place was interesting and pluck the strings of curiosity in his mind. Even with the strings being strum something was... Off.
Something much more ominous was brewing.
-Everfree and The Southern Jungles of The Griffon Empire.-
The Everfree forest is a forest as vast as it is dangerous. With an average radius stretching ten miles. The forest’s size is not as outstanding as it’s density. It is nearly impossible to tread in the forest do to the ancient timber obstructing most paths. Even most game trails are too obscure to travel along on hoof, they are simply too small or perilously narrow. Trees tend to intertwine with one another creating strange images that are often mistaken for monsters.
Although the trees may be mistaken for monsters, it should be understood that there are indeed fearsome creatures within. Some include but not limited to: Manticores, Timber Wolves, Cockatrice, Hydras, rockodiles, and all a sorted sizes of Ursi and a few Dragons, the list goes on. The forest is a place to be feared. Few expeditions have been made into it’s depths and never have ponies reached it’s core. Teams either returned with heavy losses, with little information, or never returned at all. Because of the dangers the forest posed no further attempts were made into it, for fear of more lives lost. Princess Celestia, although not deeming it forbidden, Did warn the populace of the dangers and advised against it. Thankfully many headed her warnings and stayed clear of the death trap.
However a few still ventured inside but were mostly never heard from again. All except one. A common Unicorn by the name of Emerald Dancer. A simple mare from Filadelphia was daring enough to enter the forest and uncover one of the most important discoveries to ever be made. Embedded in stone inside cave along the edge of the forest lay one largest skeleton to ever be found. As large as an average dragon It’s skeletal form was perfectly preserved in the stone wall. It would later become known as a “Carnosaur Ancient King of The Jungle.”She soon became famous and gained much funding from nobles to continue her search for fossils of the ancient world. Her fame and riches reached an all time high when she uncovered eighteen new species. Some of them were, Bastiladons, Terradons, Ripperdactyles and many more.
However exciting it was to discover the new existence of the carnivores that once roamed, it help solve a greater mystery in the future. A few years after christening the fossils, thousands of miles to the west, the very same fossils were being found within Griffon borders. The naturally competitive race was expectantly disappointed that they did not uncover the creatures first, and began work on a theory immediately. Equestria recognized this as a race and began word as well although two weeks later. In the end the Griffons came ahead with a theory that is widely accept to be the truth. The theory goes like so:
If one were to take a map of the two coastlines it would look almost like they used to fit together, like puzzle pieces. To support this where the Jungles abruptly end in The Empire, and the forest that abruptly begins in Equestria matches up almost seamlessly. Additionally the forest and jungles ages are close give or take a ten years.
It was a stunning revelation that lead to the idea that at one time the whole world was one supercontinent, and using the same ideas it was proven to be so.
Needless to say the descendants of the Emerald Dance were furious to be beaten by the Griffons and aggression would be shown for generations to come in the newly founded house.
The jungle, as dangerous as it is, has seen hundreds who believed themselves to be brave and strong, enter its mists. The jungle had seen many hunters whose predatory prowess was indeed impressive, and often times, better than most real predatory animals. To operate in the jungle still require much care and caution. One false move could, and more often than not would, lead to one's demise.
With predators of all shapes and sizes, poisonous insects and snakes, carnivorous plants and treacherous terrain, it was a dangerous place to be. Despite all the dangers a small figure shrouded in a cloak trudged through the obstructing foliage.
Hacking and slashing with a machete, the cloak pushed forward.
The cloak's trek had been a long one, with it's trail starting from the very edge of the jungle a few kilometers back. A strained grunt accompanied each swing of it's blade as it struck the greenery. Relentlessly it continued to attack it as it advanced, never stopping for anything.
When the large mosquito and other insects buzzed around it's head, which was often, a series of furious female grunting could be heard. A beige hoof would swat them away to no avail as they returned only moments later.
"Oh buzz off!" The voice ordered, swatting at them again.
Although clearly female a sense of confidence surrounded her. Like a mist it reached out into the air and defined her presence. It may have been such confidence and determination that deterred many predators from her path, but none can say for sure. One thing is certain, whoever this cloaked figure is she is a force to be reckoned with...
"ACHOO!" The female sneezed inelegantly. She continued to neigh sporadically as she flailed her blade into the shrubbery.
Or perhaps one often looks too deeply into things.
The sound of thunderous roaring was caught by her and her ears swiveled back to hear it fully. "They're close." she muttered. It was only a few minutes after that the mare had to change her slow trudge, to a frantic full gallop. She pushed through the jungle's overgrowth, no longer caring to clear her path.
With a leap she soared over a small crevasse. A quick glance down would have reveal it to be a spiked pit fall. Several bare skulls of griffons, ponies and many other creature, who were unprepared, littered it`s floor.
The mare, unfazed by the sight, only quicken her pace.
A low hanging vine appeared in front of her motion blurred vision. Unable to avoid natures noose, before it could snag her neck, she swung her head quickly to the left. The blade in her mouth easily cut through creating two strands of plant matter, and effectively rendering it harmless.
"ROAWR!"
The series of the predators chasing her remind her, yet again, that they were hot on her trail... And by the sounds of it, closing fast!
The mare had long ago reached the maximum speeds she could move while in the forest. If she could get into an opening she could take off and most likely leave them in the dust.
"Get her!"
"But then there is him..." The mare muttered, instantly recognizing who the hate filled voice belonged to.
The high pitch whoosh of a projectile glided through the side of her hood, landing directly into the tree in front of her. Sparring no time, she quickly yanked out the arrow, taking off in another direction. Only a second later another arrow landed where she once stood.
She let out a small hiss as the metal tip glanced her rear. Red liquid quickly showed in the second gape in her cloak.
"Too Shallow!" She yelled back with a smile. "You're going near sighted my friend!"
Another hate filled roar priced the air only making the mare's smile larger as she galloped on.
Deep in the Southern Jungle a certain earth pony of bland coloration chaotically ran about. Far below the canopy was a assortment of equipment strewn all over the ruins. A series of bleeps and bloops emitted from the machines as they performed whatever purpose they computed.
The chiter chater of a fax printing joined the sympathy of noise. Lined paper soon spilled onto the forest floor like a gutted animal spills it guts.
The Doctor's ears quickly picked up the sound. Nearly tackling the machine, he pressed his face against the paper, studding the readings with full concentration... For three seconds.
Having absorbed all the data he needed, he moved over to another station. Taking up a pen in hoof he joyfully scribbled some equations on paper. The entire page was soon filled and he rushed back over to a set of hieroglyphs.
"Hmm..." He scrunched his snout in thought.
Seconds later he hurried over to another machine bearing a screen on a movable tube.
*Bame*
A large blast of light bathed the ruins and faded in an instant. The machine made a whirring noise followed by ringing bell.
"Hmm...?" The Doctor hummed thoughtfully. "Well how about this?!"
With a face graced with determination he galloped into his blue box.
More sounds filled the air as he performed experiments inside. Bells, gongs, hammering, the buzz of electricity, and for a reason unexplained to all dogs barking and cats hissing.
Soon the pony reemerged. He buried his face once more into a stone tile decorated with the ancient language. As he his eyes bored into them his face changed from confused to confused and disgruntled.
"Why can't I read you?!" He shouted at the defenseless carvings.
The cloaked mare was still galloping for her life. The mare ducked behind a tree just in time to hear the vibration of an arrow on the other side. Sweating and breathing heavily, she lead against the bark if only for a moment.
"He just doesn't give up." She groaned.
"HISS!"
The pony did not even have time to act before a snake sunk it's fangs into her left foreleg. She yelped in surprised,yanking the reptile off her.
The red snake hissed again in the grip of her hooves. Bearing it's fangs, it threatened to bite her again. It was quickly tossed away by her a few feet away.
"HISS" It spat, coiling around a rock.
It was now the pony could get a good look at.
A red snake with three black stripes along it's mid section. It was small perhaps only two feet long. it eyed her with it's yellow eyes, hissing periodically as it reared up, revealing it's deathly pale underbelly. During its hissy fit she inspected it's fangs. Long dry and white was a relieve for her to see. She knew this snake to be "Iram Maxilla", a poisonous snake. It was discovered by the Emerald Family in the Everfree a few hundred some odd years ago. It's bite, although not deadly, has devastating effects on the mind. Ponies injected with it's venom will start to hallucinate within two hours. The pony will become easily enraged and openly attack unprovoked. It even has long term effects. Once bitten the mind will be left scrambled. The victim will only be a shell of what they once were often rambling and screaming out of no where. What is scariest about the rambling however is that all victims at one point or another will mention the word "Sotek". To this day no pony knows what that means or how those bitten, even if separated by a vast ocean will utter the same words. Naturally it was a great relief to see the dry fangs instead of those fresh with venom.
Even still, she quickly check her for leg for any signs that she might have some in her. Finding none, she made a makeshift bandage out of her cloak. She let out a grunt of exhaustion as she took off again, leaving a very pissed off snake between her and her pursuers.
The pony galloped hard despite her own exhaustion. Every step was accompanied by labored wheezing and profuse sweating. She pushed through another bush feeling the thorns dig into her coat and drawing small droplets of blood. On the other side she was greeted with a large open area. Sitting between her and the other side was a wide crevice.
Without any hesitation she summoned what remained of her stamina and bolted right for it. With a wipe of her head his through off her cloak, releasing her dirty gold wings. The distance between her and the gape decreased and she spread her wings for flight.
With a great leap she soared into the air. Her eyes shot wide as her ears swiveled around to catch a noise.
"Tch!" She swerved to the left to avoid a speeding projectile.
The black arrow missed her by a few feet but had done what it was indented to do. The mare had altered her path to match that of a Jaguar just beneath her. With a roar it leaped with feline precision and tackled her in mid air.
It grappled her with it's claws sinking into her flesh. She yelped at the pain and landed a solid hit into it's jaw before it could tear out her throat. The Jaguar recoiled back, but before letting her go, it slashed her left wing with a single claw. The mare cried again as the large cat used her to leap back to safety, leaving her to fall into darkness alone.
With a damaged wing she could not hope to escape. She spiraled out of control plummeting like a stone into the split earth. The light quickly receded and disappeared from her sight as the darkness swallowed her whole, like some delicious treat. Down and down she went with nothing but the deafening sound of rushing air and her screaming to accompany her.
*Bame*
Another blast of light coated the ruins. The pony rushed over to another instrument and examined the screen. Endless streams of numbers and letters rushed by his eyes, feeding him the information he desired.
"Oh I see." His face relaxed. "You all existed before..."
His relaxed expression washed away as quickly as it had arrived. He stared at the screen a second time in hopes he had been wrong. But like so many times before, he was not.
"B-But... That's not possible." He spoke slowly and quietly, as if something was listening. "But that would mean..."
He rushed into his box with a small metallic cylinder in his mouth. Reaching the console he pushed the first lever he came into contact with. Within seconds he pushed several buttons and pulled three knobs.
The construct made a loud thump followed by some wheezing. When it was done he rushed to the door. The door swung open to reveal a small ball of convulsing energy in an empty darkness. It was only the size of a pin prick, but released the only light in the space.
The Doctor spared no time to admire the tiny ball and quickly pointed his metallic cylinder at it. It made a high pitched whine as it performed its task. He waved it around a few times as the pitch changed. Once he was certain he was finished a small panel on the device slid away. Satisfied with what he saw he closed the double doors.
Moments later the tiny sphere of energy exploded. It expanded far and wide, scattering itself over the vastness of space. The beginning of the universe.
Meanwhile the Doctor had returned to the clearing, where his equipment still beeped and buzzed with activity. He operated the machines, drawing up a mental map of knowledge. To help him organize his thoughts he rambled aloud.
"The stone is..." He quickly scanned the stone with his device. "three billion years old. Equis formed only thirteen Million years ago and the language perhaps even older. That would mean this species were visitors on this planet, not one of the primary species that evolved here." He mumbled under his breath before continuing.
"But there is no indication of a vessel capable of travelling through space, they arrived through some other means. Perhaps personal teleporters? No, no not possible. For many members of the same race to land in the same area with such an unreliable method is unlikely. What if...? The race that did arrive were posing as gods?" The doctor began to pace around the clearing as he racked his brain for answers.
"But that does not explain how they got here or why this stone is older than the planet... Or why I can't read it. To think this is the second language the Trardis and I can't decipher. What secrets this place must hold." He looked into the darkness of the entrance the tree revealed. "And all of it... Is down there."
"There's that sensation again. Right in the back of my mind, promoting me to just jump into it. To take the risk and find what has not been seen by anyone. And all I have to do is go in there..."
"Well can't do without my number one assistant! Discovering something new together, she will be so excited!" The pony smiled as he trotted over to his impossible blue box. Just before closing the door he stuck out his head to see the large tree. "Don't you go anywhere."
It was dark. A dark void of of nothing. No light penetrated into the deep crack in the earth. Soulless and devoid of all life, empty and unwelcoming, a valley of sorrow... It was all these thing. "The Nether Gate" it was often called, The place where things go to die, either from the fall, or from the overwhelming pressure it brought down on those who where unfortunate enough to survive the fall. Trials that were far worse then death would drain them of all hope, leaving nothing but sorrow. It was enough to drive any bright mind mad.
It was uncommon for anything to mishap into the Nether Gate, but it did happen from time to time. whether it be some animals fight for food and territory, or some would be hunter, it was rare, and worse, to survive the fall. The darkness was quick to destroy any sanity and hope for the victim. They quickly succumbed to either maddened rambling or mindless wandering, all mere husks of what they once were, it was unfortunate the path of starvation was not so quick.
They were all lost in the darkness alone.
They all suffered in the darkness alone.
And they all died in the darkness...
Alone, With not a soul to console them.
Despite the victims being robbed of sight there was something one sense could focus on. The sound of water continuously rushing past. Cold and as dark as it's surroundings it pushed forward never relenting in it's journey, occasionally bringing a deceased passenger. Ferrying the dead who had fallen and died. They would gracefully float along it's surface allowing the flow to carry them where it pleased. This was partly to the fact they were dead of course.
If it were possible to see in the abyss, it would have been a strangely beautiful but ominous scene.
Even now a new corpse had joined in on the journey and was gently being carried away. It was the corpse of a pegasus a rather rare occurrence in that space. In fact any form of life was seldom but this one in particular was a surprise. Never the less it would be carried to the same place as the others. The pegasus floated calmly on it's back it's mane flowing freely in the water's cooling grasp. Limp, like any corpse, she bore a tranquil demeanor to the point it was near goddess stature.
Although color was a mute thing there, it was easy to tell "it" was a "she" by touch alone. She was lucky to have been facing up rather than down. Those who float down on their back, stay up longer.
It was more dignifying that way... and dignified she was. Her chest slowly raised and fell as the unnatural liquid carried her. She was far from dead. A clam shell on the outside, battered bloody by unknown forces but still functional. A miracle by definition.
"Opri."
Unbeknownst to the pegasus the flow of the water halted. The very laws of physics bent so that the water's master could perform what she wished. The frail body was slowly raised into the air by the water as it pushed her up. A small spark flickered above her. It wavered slightly before exploding into light. For the first time in millions of years, light graced The Nether Gate.
Gradually the light faded and in it's place hovered a translucent figure. Slender frame hovered parallel to her. It was a dim blue with flat face and small wise eyes. As if pushing off an visible wall, it floated over to her. Her long locks and thin dress dragging behind her. She gracefully halted inches from the mare's face, observing it a moment. She twisted her whole body to flip around and see her from all angles. once behind the mare she outstretch a limb translucent limb with five small appendages. She ran them through the feathers and settled on a gash seeping with blood. A flash of light later and it was no more, leaving not but a scar.
The specter worker around her body tending other scraps and bites her facial expression not ever changing until she found herself in front of her again. For the briefest moment pity danced across her eyes. The moment was fleeting however, and she hovered even closer than before. She brought her face beside hers and over her left ear.
"Călătorie nu este încă peste." She breathed ever so gently. The pegasus remained motionless,suspended in the air. "Fii puternic. Drumul este plin de greutăți." The ghostly figure moved a set of appendages across her face longingly. After the peculiar moment she pushed herself away.
The water in turn slowly returned to where it yearned, carefully bringing the pegasus as well, and gingerly placing her back. The specter meanwhile regarded her with a curious expression. Her image flickered and her light weakened. The water around the mare slowly stirred, ready to move obey physics once again.
"Trezește-te," The ghostly women whispered, disappearing from sight. "Daring Do."
Daring Do's body snapped to life. She coughed uncontrollably as small drops of liquid worked their way out of her lungs.. After a few good wheezes she steadily raised herself to her hooves. Splintering pain shooting through her body as she did so. But she was tough, she had survived far worse than this.
The mare coughed one last time before taking in a large sum of air. Her chest expanded taking it all greedily. "By Celss-*gasp* tia!" She gasped for another breath. "I'm Alive! That's seven points me zero points Ahuizotl. Was not expecting Ahuizotl to have The Bow of Clamat though." She breathed a sigh of relief. "Good thing he's... a... bad..."
Daring do trailed off staring into the darkness around her. It was so thick you could cut it with a knife.
"Shot..."
Not a single trace of light, just solid darkness. Daring felt a small droplet of sweat fall down her face. Wasting no more time she forced herself to move from the waters edge onto, what felt like, cold stone. It was not as unpleasant as she was expecting. The water had made it all smooth over the countless years it had been moving.
Gingerly she laid herself down, being absolutely sure there were no sharp rocks. The last thing she wanted was to add more injuries on top of old ones. With a grunt she rested herself fully on the smooth stone. Laying on her side she allowed her breath to catch up with her.
She never stopped staring into the darkness in a mock attempt to seem prepared. In truth, she was in trouble. She was exhausted, injured to the point she can no longer fly and she was unable to see even an inch in front of her snout. It was looking pretty grim. Accompanying her slowing heart beat was the constant trickle of water. It was slow and calm but must have belonged to a large stream or small river. It did carry her after all.
"The Nether Gate..." She whispered. "This may be the worst case scenario."
Slowly and steadily reached out a hoof, feeling the nearby terrain. It was smooth and and dry. Once she was sure it was safe, she took one step forward. reaching out another hoof, she could feel it sink into something cool and wet.
"Hmm."
The mare halted her slow advance to rummage through her saddle bags. Several objects rubbed against one another producing a variety of clinks and clunks.
"Come on," Daring Do persisted. "I know you're in here somewh-" Something smooth and multiple surfaced graced her touch. "Ah-Ha! There you are."
Without further ado she withdrew the small item and raised it above her head.
"Illuminate!"
The small gem in her hoof bathed a small area around her in red light. She surveyed her surroundings finding that her suspicions were correct. She was able to free up hoof by placing the gem in a slot in her hat. She knew that was a good investment.
She carefully edged herself closer to the water and scanned it from left to right. The water was certainly in motion and, like the level headed mare see was, she elected to travel up stream.
Slowly she treated the smooth stone, making sure every step was secure. Although she had no need to fear any sharp rocks it was perilously slippery. She would always glance at the rushing water, scanning for potential threats. The water itself seemed hazardous in a way. It had the potential of dragging her away if she was careless enough to fall in, or containing hidden predators. Although she doubted there would be any at her current depth, or at least nothing that would attack something of her size.
She came to an abrupt halt, eyeing the rapids with a queer expression. Closer she went till she could she light reflecting off it's surface. But something was off.
Something was moving under the surface. Something very rough in texture.
"EPP!" A high pitched squeal sounded.
A small section of a step gave way and sent a crude jagged stone tumbling into the darkness. The startle pegasus was already in hover mere seconds after the step gave way.
"Doctor, I don't know about this." A weak voice said plainly. "Aren't ruins like, really dangerous?"
The earth pony gave his pegasus companion a laugh. "Oh heavens no, it is completely safe actually. And even if it weren't you would still have nothing to fear."
"Really?" The grey pegasus asked, unconvinced.
"Oh yes!" The stallion affirmed, bringing a smile to her face. "Even if there are trap doors leading to lethal spike traps, Deadly poisonous darts, raining venomous snakes from the ceiling or the classic boulder crush. I will keep us from harm!"
"..." The pegasus only stared at him. "That didn't make me feel any better."
"What was that Derpy?" The distant voice of the doctor called. "You shouldn't be dilly dally here."
"Nothing Doctor!" She quickly responded, falling behind him with a few flaps of her wings. "Just thought it was funny."
"What's funny?"
"Oh you know," She nervously flicked her mane out of her eyes. "The whole 'there's nothing wrong with the southern birds' and then you find this right after."
"Ah well," The stallion laughed. "there really was nothing wrong with them. They were just following their instincts. Animals are very good when it comes to their own survival. If they believed they were in danger they are not just going to stick around."
"S-So there is some thing d-dangerous about this place?"
"Perhaps." The doctor nodded, earn a alarmed stare from her companion.
Slowly the two descended deeper into the bowels of the ancient structure. The orange glow of the torches lining the walls illuminated their descent into the tomb. The orange fire danced and flickered as they passed. Ancient hieroglyphic scripts lined the walls from top to bottom, depicting their age-old history. Each carving cut deep into the stone and stood strong against the test of time.
"Oh look at this one Doctor," The stallion said, brushing away some dust. "*cough* it's *cough*."
"A snake." The stallion stated.
"A snake!" The mares eyes widened in fear as she took a step back. "Are you sure?"
"Of course," He paced a proud hoof on his chest. "and that there is a mountain."
"That can't be right, the snake is just as big as the mountain." The mare focused on eye on the mountain and the other on the so called snake. "How is that possible."
"It is possible that those two symbols are representing another meaning rather than a snake as large as a mountain. For example the snake could represent death or disease, and the mountain could mean large or vast." The stallion explained, matter-of-factually. "So when you put those two together it could mean a great plague or just a disaster befell the society."
"Oh," The mares ears splayed back. "That's... not good."
She pawed at the ground with a sullen look on her face at the realization that, this was essentially a tomb of a civilization that did not make it. She could not help but wonder that maybe, just maybe, equestrian might not make it either. However all those thoughts were pushed aside when a friendly hoof was placed upon her. She glanced up to see her friend smiling at her with the warmest of smiles.
"Derpy I promise you, that as long as I am here, nothing bad will happen to you or anyone else on this planet."
"O-Of course." She blushed.
"Alright then, now let's go explore this wondrous temple of history."
"Ya!" The pegasus cheered, forgetting all her doubts and fears. After all with him around there was nothing to fear, right?
Daring Do picked up her pace to a canter. After what she believed she had seen, their was no time to waste. She doubted she would starve to death before something got their claws in her. According to her she would survive as long as she had a light source, three hours by her estimate, and that was being extraordinarily generous to her situation. It was only a matter of time now.
"Once my light goes out," She glanced at the river beside her. "I'm done for... Unless,"
The mare carried on up the stone carved slope. Determination burned in her eyes as she cautiously traversed the smooth stone. Her hoof steps echoed through the darkness that surrounded her. Each step sounded loud and clear with the overflow of the water. Her muscled burned and ached from exhaustion, and a recent near death experience. It was taking everything she had just to keep breathing.
She fell to the floor with dull thud. Breathing heavily and lightly cursing she tried to pick herself up. She only raised a few inches before collapsing again. She was far more exhausted then she realized.
"Come on Darring," She hissed, trying to prompt a response from her body. "You been through a lot worse than this!"
She tried again and again to force some hidden strength from her body, but none came. She urged it to move so they might live another hour, but it was for naught. The days she spent trudging, and running through the dense jungle above had already brought her past her breaking point. Even now she could feel the need for sleep. Her eyelids grew heavy and were threatening to shut for the rest they desired. She would not be able to continue like this.
"So," She sighed, fighting to stay awake. "this is where... it... ends..."
With those final words her vision fades and she joins the realm of dreams. She is easy prey now.
The steady rhythmic beat against the stone steps grew louder. The vibrations coursing deep through the barriers of stone. it flowed further into the earth and ancient halls. quiet echos brushed up against the overgrowth hanging from the ceiling and covering the floor.
It was a vibrations that should have not had any effect on a dusty old tome like this, but...
Down in the deepest part of the structure a small stone rolled across the decorative stone floor with speed. It passed several archways and intersecting passageways, that seemingly stretched on forever into the darkness. It clattered against floor as it progressed further and further, slowly losing it's speed. Taking it's last roll, it stopped just shy of falling into a large cavern.
Once upon a time their was a bridge that stretched from one side to the other, but time had not been kind to every inch of the structure. It was, unfortunately, one of the many wonders that could not stand the test of time.
Just a small fraction of stone hanged precariously over the edge. With no force to act upon it further it would remain stationary for many a year. that is until it was lifted in the air by several strands of blue light. It only hovered a few inches in the air and, with a low hum, tossed off the side. It was quickly engulfed by the hungry darkness below.
Once again on the move it plummeted into the earth. it collided with a ridged outcrop with an audible crack but continued it's decent undeterred. The sound of it connected with several other obstacles along the way was faint but clear. Farther and farther it fell only slowing down when it made contact with an obstruction. It fell for what seemed like an eternity until it finally hit it's final obstacle.
With a low thud it bounced of a hard, but not rock hard, surface. It pushed back on it slightly before falling on the floor next to the object. All was still and for a moment nothing happened, but it was not long before the object started to stir.
It started with a few small ballistic twitches that faded into some swallowing pulsations. A silk moist tongue poked out of it's mouth and touched the cold stone. Finally, with a crack and a slither, some of the flesh peeled back. A bright orange blur was revealed as the eyelid opened. A second layer peeled back and reveal a black oval in it's center. Slowly it pivoted in it's socket and focused on the small stone that had woken him.
Even the smallest of vibrations can make the largest of waves.
