twin brothers locked in battle, pulled away from home and tossed into Equestria. Can they make amends before darker forces come to light?
In the midst of the worlds’ great’s religious war, twin brothers locked in battle over right and wrong. One possessed and fighting to destroy their home, the other fighting to save what is left of it. Amongst the final days of a great battle, a mysterious light sweeps both of them into a new world. Ancient evils awaken; hidden truths discovered…will the boys make amends in time to save this new world, themselves, and their new allies?
A small glint of of light reflected off a small star amulets red jewel. The guard had stepped asides and unlocked the door. A tall, lean man stood in the frame. His shadow cast a menacing chill as it came to rest on the chained prisoner. "I will force you to watch as we slaughter your family, friends and just before you...," the man stepped up close to the prisoner, "we'll kill your lover, but his death will be slow and painful." The man stepped back enough as the prisoner lunged at him. A wicked laugh escaped his lips, "Today at high noon, you will all die!"
The prisoner cast his eyes back to the floor as his body slumped back on his heels. "One day, they will rise up against you. And we will be seen as martyr and heroes." The prisoner shifted his eye up at his captor. "And when you rot in hell, I'll be there to make sure you suffer more then this false king."
The man scowled at the prisoner. "You will regret those words, I promise that!" He slammed the door shut, the lock clicking back into place. The guard snickered before blocking out the last of the light. Tears slowly made their way down the prisoners cheek.
The hours seemed to have past by rather quickly as the noon bell rang. The cell door flew open and before the prisoner could see a black bag was placed over his head. The prisoner gave no struggle as he was forced to his feet. What's the point. I'm too weak and he'll suffer more if I do put up a fight. Those final thoughts filled every corner of his mind.
In the main court yard stood a tall, stacked man near a chopping block, with an axe in hand. On a chair, made of gold and styled of gems, had a muscular yet older man. A golden rod rested in his hands, showing his authority. "BRING OUT THE PRISONERS!" His voice boomed across the court yard. It had filled with many who came to ether grieve this lose or find the courage to pick up the mantel in place of these now walking dead men.
As the bag was swiftly removed, the prisoner closed his eyes from the blinding sunlight. As he tried to shield them, he found he was chained down. Once his vision became clear, he took note of were every one was at...even the so called king. His five friends, showing no fear, were at the noose. His family, smiling like madmen, were lined at the fireing squad. His lover, with tears and bruises on his face, stood shaking next the the executioner. "I'm sorry everyone. May your souls find peace." His final note was about the ruleing king, he was about five hundred feet away. Rye knew he had to be at least twenty feet above the ground.
One by one, each were killed as he was forced to watch. Tears silently fell down his cheeks, sorrow and anger filled him. The last being his lover, the poor man was trembling. His physical appearance was that of a scrawny boy, but his lean muscles told he had speed and agility on his side....or use too. Fresh tears made their way down the prisoners face. The prisoner looked at his love with great sadness, "I love you. I'm sorry for every thing." The young man was forced to his knees as his arms were placed on the cutting block. The prisoner forced his eyes shut as shrieks of pain filled the still air. Twice more, the cries rang out before silence fell.
The memories of his friends and lover filled his heart, a great sadness swept over him along with vengeful anger. He pulled at his chains, his carpture laughed loudly but didn't notice the amulet he wore had begun to glow. The most primal scream escaped his lips as an unnatural strength aided in breaking his bonds. With little effort he fought off the guards and leapt into the crowd. He made a mad dash at the world overlord. At the same moment a new figure took after him from the other side. Just as he jumped into the air above this now dead man, his amulet shone a bright light. Everything around him went blinding white into sudden darkness.
The prisoner felt grass under his fingers, the sun seemed to have gone down. "no...no...NO!" He slammed his fist into the ground repeatedly. "HELP! ....Is some pony there?" A young female voice called out. Without regard to his own being, he scramble to his feet and made way toward the cry for help. "HELP! I'm stuck down here!"
The prisoner came upon a hole, before approaching he slide his hood on. Not sure if someone here may know who he is. "Up here..." He got into a low kneeling position and reached his hand down. He never bothered to look down, he just kept looking around for anyone else that may becomeing to look for her. "Quickly now, don't want people to worry about you." He felt a hoof land in his hand, his thoughts reeled for a bit but figured she must wearing something that related to a hoof.
He pulled with all his might, she didn't feel heavy but his body was seriously drained. Just as she reached the crest of the hole, he fell over with her landing on top of him. "Oh thank Celestia you came along mister....hey, your not a pony!" She couldn't see his face, but the fact he didn't have hooves made it clear to her. "No matter, A'm still grateful y'all helped me outa that mess." She had taken to sitting up on his chest. "Name's Applebloom. Nice ta meet'cha." The girl had a big grin on her face.
"Name's Rye. Mind if I get up?" Applebloom sheepishly blushed as she got off him. "Thanks..," he took a sitting position, "now...." his mouth hung open. The girl he saved was indeed a little pony. He could barely make out her yellow fur, red mane and tail. She was roughed up some, but nothing bad. "YOU'RE.....A....A...PONY!" He heard the girls name get called off in distance. Slowly looking in the direction of the voice, he notice a group of five colorful pony girls coming right toward him. His mind barely had time to register what was going on when he felt a large smack to the back of his head. He barely saw cyan wings close to him before passing out.
As he slowly came back to consciousness, he head the voice that called to applebloom. "Rainbow, A' can't believe you. Just taken the poor thing out like that. And YOU little missy. March your flank home right now, granny smith and Big Mac are worried sick 'bout you. An' as fer you, Rainbow, A' asked you ta keep an eye on 'er." Rye had opened his eyes just enough to see six mares across the room and barely noticed Applebloom as she had left out the door with her head hung low.
"Um...I think it's awake," a pale yellow mare shrank behind the cyan one. Her man and tail was a light pink, as the cyan one's were rainbow colored. He slowly forced himself into a sitting position. The others hadn't noticed his movements yet. "girls..." the apparently shy one tried again to get their attention. Rye took the time to work out the knots in his neck. The other took no heed to her call as they chattered on about who and what he is. "GIRLS...." Everyone turned to her, even rye looked at her a bit surprised. "Um...I think, its awake." Rye just smiled as all eyes turned to him. Luckily his hood was still on, but the smile he knew they saw.
A lavender pony with purple and pink strip mane came close to him. "It seems to be ok, maybe a bit tired and under feed. Some serious dehydration, but nothing life threatening that I can see. Fluttershy, have you seen a creature like this before? It has no claws...or hooves. I wonder if it can understand me...." The lavender pony had carefully placed a hoof onto Rye's forearm. He simply smiled at the innocent curiosity around him. Fluttershy just shook her head and kept close behind the cyan one.
"Ok, one I'm a boy. Two my name is Rye. And three, got anything for a headache?" The lavender one stepped back a bit in surprise. "Did I say something wrong?" Rye had a slight smirk on his face, he was sooo glad they couldn't see the laughter in his eyes.
The lavender one recomposed herself and stepped back up. "Ahem, My name is Twilight Sparkle. It's nice to meet you, Rye. I would like to welcome you to Ponyville in the land of a Equestira. These are my friends," she waved a hoof across each on in order. "Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, and behind her is Fluttershy." Rye noticed how each one was different color. Applejack was orange with yellow mane. Pinkie Pie was pink with a dark fluffy pink mane. Rarity was white with a deep purple styled mane. Rainbow Dash was cyan with rainbow mane. And fluttershy was light yellow with a light pink mane.
"So...about those pain med?" Twilight nodded and stepped out of the room. He took a moment to gather what little of his thoughts he had. Ok this has to be all in my head. There is NO way brightly colored ponies can talk. Rye closed his eyes, took a deep breath, slowly exhaled. As Rye opened his eyes, reality sunk in. Ok so this is real. I wonder am I the only one that came here? "Ok, I know there are a lot of questions you have for me. But can we just stick to three for now. Twilight was right, I am tired." Rye lowered his hood. Light blond hair fell over a portion of his face, his azure colored eyes sparkled in the light.
"OOOOHHHH!!" All eyes turned to Pinkie. "OHMYGOSH!" She had bounced right up to him, "Their so sparkly just like the dresses Rarity makes." She took her hooves and squeezed his cheeks. "OHMYGOSHHESOSOFTbutnotsoftlikeapilloworacloudbutsoftlike...." Rye had covered her mouth. She still mumbled through most of it, smiling the whole time. His face was a deep crimson. As Twilight returned, she spotted Pinkie. With a sigh, she levitated Pinkie back over by AppleJack.
"So sorry about that, she gets extremely excited when a new pony come to town." Twilight levitated a glass of water and two pills to Rye. "ok, now three questions. One, what are you? Two, were are you from? Three, what were you doing with Applebloom?" The girls all sat on their hunches, except Rainbow who hovered near by.
After taking the pills, Rye sighed. "First, I'm a human. Second, its a planet called earth. Third, she was stuck in a hole. So I was helping her out, course that's about the time y'all showed up." Ryan slide the few stand of hair from his eyes, "Now your ponies right? Were am I? Is there some place I can sleep, at least for the night?" A yawn escaped his lips.
Rainbow Dash glared at him, "Bet you're just some moster from the everfree forest. Cause I've never heard of a ...." A hoof was quickly shoved into her muzzle. Applejack glared at Rainbow. Rainbow just glared at Applejack who simply shook her head. Rainbow snorted loudly, knowing Applejack wasn't going to let her finish her rant so she sat down next to her.
Twilight glared at Rainbow Dash before turning her attention back to Rye. "Well, yes we are ponies. This is my home and public library. This land is call Equestria, which is ruled by Princess Celestia and her sister Princess Luna. And yes, I have a spare bed you can use till we get you settled into some place. SPIKE!! .... ... SPIKE!!" The kitchen door opened and a young dragon walked into the room. "Spike, take a letter."
"Dear Princess Celestia,
Today the girls and I have come across the most interesting creature near the everfree forest.
He calls himself Rye. And he is a human, a bipedal. I was wondering if you know anything about humans.
I await your response
Ever your faithful student,
Twilight Sparkle."
As Spike finished rolling it up, he quickly breathed a small flame on it. The puff of smoke went out the window and was outa sight.
Rye's face lost all color as he watched the scene take place in front of him. "it's... He's.... You're.... A dragon!" Spike looked over at Rye with raised eyebrows. "OK...ok I can deal with this... Mythology has always been based in a grain of truth... Ok..." Rye took a deep sigh. "Sorry, um mind if I just go to sleep befo..." Rye's body finally gave way from all the shock and pulled him into deep slumber. His body fell back into the near by wall.
Twilight just smiled, shaking her head, "Spike, please grab a blanket for our guest. And tomorrow setup the guest room. I have a feeling he's going to be here a while. Now girls how about we meet at Sugarcube Corner around noon. That should give him plenty of time to get rest, and get cleaned up. Before we part ways, what do each of you think?"
At first each wore different expressions but eventully they all smiled. Applejack was the first to speak up, "Well twi, he is honest. He told us what happened ta Applebloom, she even admitted ta it all. She spilled the beans on da way 'ere." She smiled at the sleeping boy. "An seems he'll be a might curious about the critters we got 'ere."
"I don't know. You sure we can trust him?" Rainbow eyed Rye quizzically. "What if he has some secret motives to take over Equestria... I think we should just hold off till the Princess says otherwise." Around that time Spike, who had slipped out of the room, walked back carring a blanket and pillow for their guest.
"Twilight, darling, will you be ok here ... With this fashion disaster?" For the first time Rarity spoke up. Twilight saw a concern on her face was more about the boys fashion choice then any danger he could present. Twilight, nodding, escorting the girls to the door. It was late and Twilight know that the day was going to be long.
Mean while, Princess Celestia had received Twilight letter while she slept. The letter laid on a near by night stand, waiting to be opened. It wasn't till she woke into the early morn just before she had to raise the sun. Spotting the letter, she read carefully over the words before replying to her student. Appon sending her reply, Celestia set about to raise the sun. "So the legend is true. I wonder if she ever found the stones"
Twilight woke to the sound of a belching dragon. Spike made his way quickly to her bed. "Twilight, the princess wants you to bring him to canterlot once he is able to travel. Today if possible." Spike had the letter quickly torn from his claw as a panicked twilight shot up and read over it herself. She dashed out of her room straight into the bathroom. Spike could here her saying some strange oddities about this not being good or her being unprepared. He shook his head, returning to the kitchen to finish making breakfast for everyone.
After cleaning up, Twilight made her way downstairs to wake their guest. Upon entering the main hall, she noticed Rye wasn't sleeping against the wall. The blanket was neatly folded with the pillow sitting on top. Her pulse quickened, feeling a bit frantic she started to look around, only to notice him sitting cross-legged toward the middle of the room. "Um, Rye..." Twilight walked over to the boy, her jaw dropped as she noticed him levitating off the ground if only a few inches. "Rye...um if you need to clean up. The bathroom is the first door on the right upstairs. And ummm are you levitating?"
Rye opened his eyes as his body touched the ground. He gently smiled, "Thanks for the offer, Twilight. It would be good to clean up before truly starting the day." Rye got to his feet and began to accend the stairs. Just as he reached to top, he stopped and looked back at Twilight. "Oh and to your question. Yea, I was. I'll explain later." Turning back, he closed the door behind him. "At least I hope I can."
An hour passed by before Rye finally came downstairs. "Twilight, darling, what is so important that it couldn't wait till we all met at sugarcube corner?" Rye heard Rarity's voice. Not wanting to just show up in the room, he leaned against the wall to conceal his presence. "Well I wanted your option on something. This morning when I came downstairs to wake him, I found him levitating. I know we really don't know a lot about humans, none to be honest. But is it possible for him to have magic? I'm not worried, more curious I guess. I did ask but he said he would explain it all later." Rye knew that he couldn't keep his secret for too long. They have show great trust in me this far...perhaps I can do the same. Sides, I'll need help if I want to get back home to set things straight. Rye contemplated what to do as his thoughts of the last few days echoed in his mind.
Spike came around the corner holding some tea cups. "Oh, Rye. Glad to see your finished. There is some breakfast in the kitchen, its eggs and toast. Wasn't sure what you eat," Spike walked past into the main hall. "Here you go, Rarity. Just the way you like it." Rye smiled as he peeked around the corner. He could see the honest love in spike's eyes. Rye turned and made his way into the kitchen.
Rye put his dishes into the sink as he finished up the last of the toast. "mmm three ... Nope four days now with out food. That tasted great. I wonder how much they will believe. Wish you were here mom." Turning to the door his face flushed red seeing Twilight standing there. "um...how much of that did you hear." Rye shifted uneasy under her gaze.
Twilight just sighed, "All of that. Is it true?" Rye nodded. "Then we are off to sugarcube corner. I'm sure the cakes have plenty to help fill you up." Smiling she made her way to Rye's side. Gently placing her hoof on his forearm, "oh and next time don't eavesdrop around the corner. I understand you may have some trust issues but can you give us a chance?" Rye smiled back to her and nodded.
As they both returned to the main hall they saw the others had showed up. The smile faded from Ryes face as he spotted Spike over by Rarity. Memories of his love filled his thoughts. AppleJack was the first to notice this, the look Rye wore told her more then his words ever could. She silently made her way to his side. "Care ta tell me'h what's on ya mind, surgarcube?" Rye looked over at her, it wasn't till now that he really saw they were around four maybe five feet tall.
"I'm just missing someone that I wont ever see again." The strength he had weakened so much that the tears started to show around his eyes. AppleJack could see his body trembling, with no other thought she pulled him to his knees and wrapped her hooves around his neck. He pulled her close and held on tight as the flood of tears broke through, hushed sobbing could be heard in the room.
"Twilight...um...do you think he'll be ok?" Fluttershy watched the scene unfold, she couldn't help but feel for him. "if its ok, um do you think we could do something to cheer him up? I figure maybe a picnic or something, if you like." Fluttershy had looked down as spoke. Twilight smiled at her friends idea.
"I think that is a great idea, but it may have to wait till later." Twilight took a seat next to her other friends while AppleJack and Rye had a moment. "For now, lets get him something to eat and see if he is willing to travel to Canterlot to meet the princess." As the group looked over at the two, it seemed that Rye had finally gotten him self recomposed. "Sorry to interrup, but perhaps we can go to sugarcube corner. We can get you something to eat and chat a bit."
Rye wiped the remaining tears from his now blood shot eyes. "That sounds nice and all, but are you sure I wont scare some ponies here?" Rye knew that he had been brought here in the dark so no real ponies had actully seen him. "I just dont want to make a scene...ok more of a scene then I already had."
"Darling, you may be different here. But we have many different creatures that live in Equestria. Like griffions, Manticores, Timberwolves. Though not all are as friendly as us ponies." Rye sighs as Rarity was making her point. He just smiled as he stood.
"Ok, ok. I give. I'll try not to freit over it." Rye flinched a bit, he could feel his body still aching from the way he slept. Rye noticed Fluttershy gave him a look of concern but he gave her a gentle smile in return. "So, shall we get goin?" Rye walked over to the door and held it open for the girls.
They each smiled and thanked him as they exited. Fluttershy held back just a bit, "Rye, are you um ok? You aren't in pain are you?" Rye could see the concern in her face but just smiled. He simply shook his head as he gestured toward the door. Fluttershy smiled back and walked out.
Rye pulled his hood up as he walked out. He kept his eyes slightly hidden, he was still unsure about this place. But he did say he would try to give them some trust, at least the girls so far had his. Following close to Fluttershy, Rye suddenly felt his hood pulled off. "HEY!" Rye turned to see Twilight had used her magic to remove his hood. "Why'd ya do that?"
"Cause there is no reason to for you to wear that. Now come on, there are plenty of ponies that will wanna meet you." Twilight smirked at Rye. "Besides all that, there is beautiful scenery around, not to mention you need to memories Ponyville. We can't always escort you around town." Rye still gave her a glare but nodded to her logic.
As they walked through town, many of the ponies had stopped to stare at Rye. Seems that most were wondering what he was while others just kept their distance. That is until on certain pony spotted him. "A HUMAN! OH MY GOSH, I KNEW THEY WERE REAL!" The group were nearly to Sugarcube Corner when a mint color blurr had tackled Rye to the ground. A pair of sunglow eyes stared right at Rye's.
"LYRA!! GET OFF THE POOR THING!" A cream colored pony grabbed Lyra by her tail, pulling her off Rye. "I do apologize. Lyra gets very eccentric when she thinks she found a human. My name is Bon Bon." She glared back over to Lyra who had a sheepish grin. Shaking her head, Bon Bon reached a hoof out to Rye.
Rye smiled as he took her hoof. "Actually she is right this time. I am human." He grinned as he noticed Lyra's grin and Bon Bon's look of shock. "It is a pleasure to meet you both and I have a feeling it won't be the last. But at this time, I'd like to grab a bite to eat." Rye offered his hand to the girls. Lyra was the first to take his hand shaking it wildly. Bon Bon was a lot more gentle shaking his hand.
The girls all smiled at Rye. "Seems you already made some friends." After rejoining the group, Rye nodded at Twilight. "You'll come across many others like that. And not just mares, even stallions are just as friendly." Rye rolled his eyes as he followed Twilight into the shop. They walked to the counter. His mouth watered as he saw all the confections.
"So what would you like?" Rye jumped as the pinked haired mare appeared by his side. "We got cupcakes, muffins, cakes, OH OH OH how about a shake! wealsogotlotsofothergoodies" Rye quickly covered her mouth.
"How about you surprise me, ok?" Pinkies eyes lite up and no sooner had he let go of her a pink cloud was left in her place. "Um...should I bother even try to understand how she does that." Twilight just giggled, shaking her head. She lead Rye over to the others that had taken seats. "Ok, so I'm sure every one wants to know something...but I can't tell you everything. Some stuff is..." Rye looked away from them. "a bit too ugly to speak of. So who is first?" Rye returned his gaze to them.
Twilight cleared her throat. "How about you just tell us what you feel like. Can be from entertainment, fashion, political standing." She levitated a note pad near by ready to take notes. Just around then Pinkie stood up besides Rye with his order.
"HERE YOU GO!" Pinkie set a tray on the table and vanished just a quickly. Rye ended up on the floor, his eye were filled with shock. He could hear the pink mare helping others in the shop. I swear she will end up being the death of me. I doubt my heart can take much more
Rainbow had fallen over laughing, Twilight just shook her head. Applejack had gone to Rye's side to help him up as had Fluttershy. Rarity hadn't bothered moving, she instead started setting up the table for every one to enjoy. "Y'all gonna be ok, sugarcube?" Rye finally got straighten out, nodding to her.
"Ok, so let me see um. Fashion kinda fell through except for those that were rich. There were brilliant gowns mind you before the war. Many people lived to be stylish, I wasn't as lucky to be in that world. Political standing, we had many bodies of governments, even one that ruled through religion. And that government ended up starting the great war that still goes on to this day. Hmm, there use to be movies, video games, and a lot of technically inclined things. Music was and still is important, it was a way to express our selves. Don't ask what kind of music, cause it ranged so broadly I can't list them all." Rye paused to try some of the tripple layer double chocolate white chocolate chip cake. "Dear lord, this is rich and tastes wonderfull!"
Twilight looked outside, it was nearing noon. "I'm sure you have more to tell us, but I was wondering if you are feeling well enough to make a trip to Canterlot. The princess has requested that you visit." She closed her notepad and put every thing down. "I'm not sure what its about, but it seems she is very interested to see you as soon as you are able to visit."
Rye had ate the final bite of cake. "Yea sure, it does seem fitting that I say hello." He took hold of a cup, "I am wondering...what is she like? I mean there are pegasus, unicorns, and normal ponies. And which is she?" Taking a sip to help down the over power taste of the cake, he silently waited.
"Well, darling, she is an Alicorn. Think of her as a combination of all three tribes. Both princesses are very powerful and extremely beautiful. Princess Celestia raises the sun. While Princess Luna rasies the moon." Rarity smiled as she was content in contributing something, but just listening sutied her fine for the moment.
Twilight got up, "I think its best we head there right away. It should take an hour or two by train. I suggest you stay close to us when we get to Canterlot. The ponies there are rather ... snobbish. Good ponies, mind you but they are still a lot more upper class then those that live else were. I'm also not sure how they will react to you all together." The group exited the shop and began to make their way to the train station.
They made small talk most of the way to the station. Spike had finally been able to catch up to the group. "Twilight, Twilight!" Twilight stopped and looked back at spike. "I got everything ready for when you guys return. I also picked up a few more groceries that he is able to eat. And placed an order in for more scrolls, quills, and ink."
"Wow, Spike, I'm impressed. I wasn't planning to have you do any of that till we actully got back. Thank you, why don't you take the rest of the day...actully I need one more thing. See if any book mentions humans, fact or fiction. I'd like to know what is really known about them. Once you're done there, just take time off till we get back." Twilight patted the baby dragon on the head before rejoining the group.
Once they boarded the train, the group looked for a car that was empty. Shortly after taking their seats the conductor hollered for all passenger to board. Finally they were on their way. "Rye, I was wonderin. How in equestria did ya get here. If'n yall don't mind tellin us that tale." Applejack sat close by while the others took seats they could lay out on.
"Sure, but know it's a very ... gruesome tale." The girls nodded, well except Pinkie who was more into watching the trees' whoosh by. Taking a deep breath, Rye began his tale with his torment and being locked in darkness for months. Minutes passed by, Rye didn't bother to look at them. He could feel the horror on their faces as he detailed what happened to him, his family, and what little friends he had.
Applejack moved to sit next to him. No one said a word as he finish, even Pinkie who is usually bouncy held some solace for the tragic events. "After he's screams were gone ... I lost it. I only had one thing on my mind. End his life even if it cost me mine." He slide his wrists from under the long sleeves he wore. The shackles with a single link still hung on. "I have no idea were I got the strength from, but I torn these out of the wall, took out my guards. Leaped down the wall, ran through the crowd...and just as I about had him, a strange white light enveloped me. Next I know, I'm here saving Applebloom. The rest you know."
"You might want to ask the princess about that. She might have some idea as to what happened. But I can't make any promises." Twilight looked out the window noticing that they had reached Canterlot. "Ok, just stay close. The trip up to the castle takes only a few minutes." The group departed, the girls seemingly took positions around Rye in a defensive manner, Twilight leading the way. Just as she thought, the upper class ponies didn't take too kindly to him. Most gave an menacing glare, while others turned their noses up at the group.
Upon reaching the castle, the guards stopped the group. "We're here to see the Princess. I'm Twilight Sparkle." Just as swiftly, the guards retook their positions gestured for the gate to open. "Thank you, good sirs."
It took them a few minutes to reach the throne room, Celestia was standing near some windows when the group had walked throught the main door. "Twilight, it's good to see you. I hope every thing is fine in Ponyville?" Twilight trotted up to Celestia, both embraced the other caringly.
"Except for the surprise visitor, every thing else is going smoothly. I almost got the lastest task you asked of me done. Of course I'm sure you'd rather spend time talking to our new friend. Princess Celestia, May I introduce you to Rye. A human." Twilight stepped aside gesturing toward Rye.
Rye stepped forward and bowed. "It's an honor to meet you, Princess. I hope any information I can provide will be helpful." Rye stayed on one knee, but looked up to get a better view of who he was greeting. Her white coat shimmered in the sun, her mane was like a pastel rainbow and flowed though no breeze was present. Apon her brow was dawned a golden crown. "wow ..."
Celestia smiled, "The honor is mine. And thank you for coming. I would introduce my sister, Luna, but she must rest to raise the moon later. I do have many questions for you, but first. Twilight, I have a request of you and your friends. Go to the archives in the library and look for anything relating for the rainbow pendents." At that moment Rye's amulet shone sunlight back into Celestia's eyes. "We will be on the terace once your finished."
"Of course, Princess. I won't fail you." Twilight turned to her friends. "Ok, let's get going. This may take some time." The six girls quickly left, leaving Rye with the Princess. Celestia nodded her head toward the terace before walking outside. Rye silently followed.
As the two stood at the edge of the terace, Rye gasped at the beauty of the city before him. "Tell me, young one. What is that you wear? I sense powerful magic with in it." Rye looked at her puzzled and his fingers ran over the amulet. Rye closed his eyes and drew a long breath.
"Before that, Princess, I should tell you about what happened just before I came and who this amulet came from...and its twin." Rye had relayed the tale of what took place mear weeks before his arrival, and spared no detail on what happened that day. A single tear fell down his cheek. "There you have it. This amulet came from mom. It also has a twin. Both are said to be handed down the family but I never really believed that. Not sure how to explain it, but its more like mom was keeping a secret about them from us."
Celestia kept looking ahead. Hardly flinching at the gruesome details that fell on her ears. "Have you told any one else this...disturbing story?" Rye nodded to her question. "It was Twilight and her friends." Again he nodded, he seemed to held his composure a bit better then before. Not to say that retelling it didn't hurt. Celestia had looked over at Rye. "Seems you chose very good friends to help with such a burden, young one."
"I don't know. But I felt I could trust them. .... And for me that is a rare sensation. Though I still do feel uneasy walking around amongst all these....ponies. No offence." Rye rubbed the back of his neck. "Oh yea, its twin. As you can see, this one looks like a small star shinning amongst the dark. The other one looks like a dark moon surrounded by a cloud pillow. Mine has a gem as the star, and the moon is a obsidian stone."
Loud crashes could be heard inside. Just as Rye and Celestia got back inside the throne room, the door burst open. A large plume of smoke filled the door frame, two guards came flying out of the smoke in separate directions. Celestia took a stance in front of Rye, her wings fully extended. Thought the situation was dire, he still couldn't help but notice that she was as tall as him.
Rye returned his gaze back to the smoke. At first nothing else seemed to happen till light brown hair started to emerge. The smoke slowly curled around the persons lean body. "Impossible..." Rye whispered as he watched the figure raise it's head. A black sword, being dragged behind, could be seen with blood stains on it. "Damien..."
"All good little ponies must die..." Damien quickly swung the sword in an upward angle, from right to left, creating an energy wave that tore its way at the Princess. Without thinking Rye quickly dodged under her wings and in front of her. Her eyes grew wide as she saw the boy do this, but that didn't surprise her as much as what took place next.
As Rye raced toward the attack, snow white wings appeared on his back and a snow white horn shimmered into existence on his forehead. Rye reached, with his left hand, over his right shoulder grabbing hold of a snow white sword as his wings unfurled from it. With a single motion, he brought the blade down in an opposing direction. As the two energy waves collided not far from Rye, a shock wave shattered near by windows and cleared the smoke away from the door.
Twilight and her friends stood just on the other side of the door frame, as the smoke cleared they could see Rye and an other human facing each other. "Hey, Twi, it is me or does Rye look like an alicorn?" Rainbow dash nudged Twilight, in which the purple unicorn just nodded. "He's twenty percent cooler" The others nodded in unison with Rainbow's observation.
Rye glanced to the door noticing the girls. I have to end this quickly, before they get draw into this. As he returned his gaze to his foe, Rye noticed they had taken charge at him. Rye didn't bother to think, he simply reacted, as he raced forward to meet his enemy near half way. The blades clashed sending sparks in every direction.
"An other human here...wait....Shinning Hope?" An evil grin came across Damiens face. "I see you have taken on their look as well, going half breed are you?" Rye didn't bother a response to the banter. Rye took hold of the hilt with hands, "Come now is this any way to greet your brother, Midnight Dreams?"
Damien brought his blade down as Rye blocked it. "YOU ARE NOT MIDNIGHT DREAMS! YOU, ARE JUST A SHELL OF WHAT HE WAS! NOW DAMIEN DIE!" Rye pushed back against Damien's blade causing the other boy to falter just a bit. Seeing his chance, Rye swung his sword around aiming right for Damien's midsection.
As the sword made contact, Damien's body simply became like the smoke. "Looks like our play date has been canceled, brother. Till we meet again...Shinning Hope." Damien swung his blade one last time across Rye's thigh. "Next time I will finish the job." Damien's form vanished from sight, leaving Rye still holding his sword.
As Rye stood there blood slowly trickle down his leg, turning his pants red. Twilight carefully trotted up to Rye. Looking him over, she noticed his leg was covered in blood. "You're bleeding!" Rye didn't flinch nor speak. Twilight was getting worried. Celestia never took her eyes off the boy. Her face was somber. "Flutter shy, do you have a first aid kit with you?" Fluttershy gently flew over to Twilight and Rye. "Rye, I'm going to have to remove a good portion of your pant leg." Twilight sighed seeing Rye had gone into shock after seeing the other human.
It took some time, but Twilight had finally got the pant leg off and most of the blood cleaned off his leg. It was around that moment she noticed on his thigh a mark she knew all too well. It looked to be a small blotch of darkness, in the center was a small white shinning star. Small lines resembling light were around the small star. "YOU HAVE A CUTIE MARK!"
Hours had passed by since Twilight had discovered that Rye has a cutie mark. "I don't understand Princess. How can he have a cutie mark...not to mention the wings and horn we saw." The other girls nodded. Pinkie had gently took Rye by his shirt sleeve and lead him into a private study were the rest had gathered. "And now Rye isn't even responding to any thing."
Celestia didn't say a word, she simply placed a hoof on Twilights shoulders. The look from the young unicorn showed much distress. Celestia calmly took a breath, "I have sent for Princess Cadence. My theory is his heart is broken. After all that has happened before he came here, and now with seeing that other human is here. I can only imagine what he is going through. I have rooms ready for each of you, let's hope things can be turned around."
A guard stepped in, after knocking on the door, to introduce Cadence then taking his leave. Once the guard had left, Cadence and Twilight shared a moment while Celestia's attention was turned to the boy. Cadence turned from Twilight, seeing Celestia's gaze, and looked at the human boy. In moments her heart melted at seeing his state of mind. "I'll see what I can do." Cadence trotted over by Pinkie's side. "My dear, can I have some time with him. I'd like to see if I can help." Pinkie looked up at Cadence, her mane had gone flat, she nodded before getting up and sitting by the other girls. "Hello, My name is Cadence."
Rye didn't shift his gaze, "My name is Shining Hope..." Cadence looked at the others curiously. Not fully understanding what he had just been through in the last twenty-four hours, she knew she had to be careful. "The other one was my brother, now he's only Damien." The comment startled the ponies, no-pony expected him to suddenly speak so freely.
"What do you mean he was? Did he disown his family?" Rye shook his head. Thus far Cadence had refrained from using her magic not sure what would happen to the boy, but to get any were she had to ease the pain of his heart. She took a deep sigh and focused her magic into the tip of her horn. She carefully stepped up to Rye, gently placing the tip of her horn over his chest. The magic gently flowed into his being, the love and warmth he suddenly felt caused a few tears he held back to travel down his cheeks.
Rye took a deep breath, "He still is my brother, but something is wrong with him. He hasn't been the same since the nightmares started. In fact, it's like he is a different person. Though I have no proof that this is true..." Cadence lifted her head up, she looked into his eyes. It was clear he was wanting to cry more but he was holding back something else. "He was the one that turned in every one we loved."
"I'm sorry, Shining Hope, but I still don't understand what you mean by he is only Damien now?" Rye looked at the youngest Princess with a gentle smile. His eyes reflecting joy full days of his past.
"We were both given two names at birth. My birth name is Shining Hope, my other name is Rye. The same goes for my brother. His birth name is Midnight Dreams, his other name is Damien." Rye finally turned from the window and walked to the nearest seat. "I suppose every one wants to know about this..." Rye pointed to his cutie mark.
Celestia nodded but took notice of the time. "For now though, get some rest. We will continue this after dinner. Enjoy the gardens, but please stay within the palace grounds. If you need any thing just ask a guard to aide you. Before we part, will you tell us the name of your parents?" Rye looked down before nodding in agreement.
He averted his eyes back up at the group, "Father's name is Toby Sung. He was adopted. My mother was called Aurora Sung. Far as any of us knew she has no living relatives." Upon hearing the name of Rye's mother, Celestia's eyes widened for a moment. Rye noticed this but paid it no mind.
"The rest of you may go rest for a while. Cadence would you kindly escort Rye around for a while?" Cadence nodded, "Twilight, I have a new task for you. This one I want you alone to look into. Now come with me." Celestia and Twilight had left the others standing there.
"Um, is there a wide open garden I can use? Or even some kind of training area? I'm feeling the need to do some training to burn off this tension" Rye glanced around at the others. "I'm sure it's an odd request, but I need to do something or I'm gonna end up brewing again." Rye was tapping his foot rapidly.
"Of course, there is a private garden you can use or the guards training ground. If you like I can also see if the guards would spare with you. They are are trained to take on many kinds of foes to keep the princess safe and Equestria as well." Cadence gently smiled, trying to reassure the boy all will be fine.
"Actually the training grounds would be perfect. Can any of them use swords?" Cadence just grinned, "I take that as yes. So who will be willing to go against me?" The group had made their way outside, a large stadium was just off in the distance. "Whoa, that's the training grounds?" Rye's eyes grew wide. "Um, wow..." Cadence smiled at his minor comments.
The main gates opened slightly as they proceeded inside. "Is Shining Armor here?" Her attention was turned to a near by guard, who simply nodded in response. "Good, in the armory I assume?" Again the guard nodded to her, Cadence smiled and pressed on. Rye and the others followed, not sure what was going on.
Meanwhile deep in the Canterlot archives Twilight and Princess Celestia were deep in old scrolls. "What are we looking for Princess?" Twilight had set up a nearby table as a make-shift study desk. Quills and ink on one side, stacks of scrolls on the other. "I assume it has to do with Rye ... or is it Shining Hope?" Twilight had many questions that sparked in her eyes, this made Celestia smile while she cleared a spot in a shelf.
"We are here to find answers about his mother. There is an ancient scroll that tells of an Alicorn who had vanished one day during the time of a great war. This war was fought behind the scenes so pony folks could try to live normal lives. At least for some time, the Alicorn that went missing was in search of an artifact that held a special weapon. A rainbow, but this rainbow was different then those of today. It acts in the same manner as the Elements of Harmony do. But I must find prof that he is her child..." A click was heard on one of the shelves Celestia was clearing.
A small door way opened up at the bottom of the case. "Wow, I didn't know that was here." Twilight made her way to Celestia's side. Both peeked inside for a brief moment before a plum of dust shot out. Coughing and trying to clear the air, Twilight nor Celestia noticed a small book in a glass case at their hooves. "What, what just happened!"
As the dust finally settled their eyes fell upon the glass case. "I think we found some were to start, my dear student. I will leave this up to you Twilight. Find out if this book tells anything about Aurora. I will get the scrolls that speaks of the artifact." Celestia went back to searching while Twilight removed the book and headed to the desk.
Back at the training grounds, Rye and Shining Armor had taken a stance across from each other. "So your the thing that showed up in ponyville huh? I'm grateful that you saved our Princess. My name is Shining Armor, Captain of the Guards." Shining Armor stood tall, his captains armor shone in the sunlight. "And what name do you go by?"
Rye just simply smiled. "For now, just call me Rye. And if you win, I'll tell you my true name. But if I win, you treat us to some sweets. Fair enough?" Shining tried not to laugh as he nodded to bet. "Good, let's get started." Rye had taken what they called a long sword while Shining Armor had just his horn. Rye looked his opponent over for the first time since they had walked into the arena. The unicorn had white fur that ruffled just above blue hooves. His mane and tail were dark blue with a light blue streak.
Near by Pinkie blew into a large horn, her hair had became very curly and she wore a huge grin. The two raced at each other, Rye bared his blade to his left. His body turned slightly to his left to add in force in the blow. Shining Armor had a spell aimed for Rye's shoulder. It seemed that both were taking this as a real battle. Cadence now had a slight fear she may have put Rye into a very bad situation.
As the boys came with in feet of each other, Rye began to rotate his body to his right. The sword held tightly, it's aim ... the unicorn's horn. Shinning Armor suddenly grinned before a bright flash filled Rye's eye sight. The blade still held to it course but found nothing.
Shining Armor appeared behind Rye in a new flash of light. He quickly began to charge a bolt of magic. In the corner of Rye's vision he saw the flash, not letting up on the spin, he continued to turn around. Both combatants held smiles, but Rye wasn't expecting Shining Armor to be fast with his magic. As the light faded Rye noticed a purplish hue followed by a bolt of energy. Flicking his wrist sky ward, he release the blade to fly high into the air.
With the energy blast now with in feet of Rye, the boy pushed off his feet into the air. The bolt barely missed the tips of his shoes but a second shot wasn't that far behind. Rye could hardly see the second, as it came close he twisted his body just in time. The bolt burned away most of the back of Rye's shirt. As Rye landed on his hands and knees, he ended up facing away from his opponent. Throwing his right leg in a large round kick, he suddenly felt a shift in the air.
Rye turned his eyes skyward, his jaw dropped wide. Returning his gaze to Shining Armor, Rye noticed the blade was in a direct impact path with the guard. "no...no... Please just once more..." Rye scrambled into a mad dash at Shining Armor. The wings and horn appeared once more as if hearing his plea. I won't make it in time... Rye could only imagine pushing him out of the way with a burst of wind.
Shining Armor hadn't noticed the blade above headed straight for him, only that now this creature resembled an Alicorn His jaw hung low as he saw Rye race towards him. Rye closed his eyes and focused on what he wanted. The moment he felt the magic connect with his mind and body, he threw his left hand, palm open, at Shining Armor. A massive gust broke out from Rye's palm and headed right into the guard.
As the gust made contact with Shining Armor, a few things happened nearly at once. The guard was sent flying to the other side of the arena, near by windows shattered, the sword made contact with the ground barely second after the guard was gone leaving a small crater. The ground it self even vibrated slightly from all that commotion.
Meanwhile in the archives, Celestia found that the scrolls she wanted were currently gone. Twilight had gotten most of the text translated and found an old prophecy from Aurora in the book.
" 'Siblings of a forgotten realm .... Two souls forever bound .... New land to save .... Dark ones final form .... The land now reborn' Princess, I think I finally got some of this text worked out." Celestia walked over to the desk Twilight had made. Looking over her notes, Celestia looked at Twilight. "I think this talks about Rye and his brother. But parts of it are too faded to finish it properly. But the rest of the book is in perfect condition. I think this was added long before the rest was even considered."
Celestia nodded, "Thank you..." The walls suddenly shook slightly and dust fell from. "What going on... Twilight, I leave the rest of this in your hooves. I'm going to find out what is going on." Celestia turned and walked out the door. Twilight levitated scrolls, quills, and ink to her side. She set about making a report.
As Celestia made her way into the main throne room, she proceeded onto the balcony. Once outside, Celestia spotted a small plum of dust rising from the training grounds. "Now what is going on over there?" Taking flight, she made her way over top to see rye near the edge of a small crater, Shinning Armor laying in a heap by the far wall. The bystander ponies were barely getting back to their feet.
Cadence had regained some sense of balance, "what ... What happened?" She scanned the area carefully. She didn't panic till her eyes fell on Shining Armor. "Shining Armor...." Celestia came down next to the guard. Cadence quickly made her way to his side. "Is...Is he OK?" Celestia nodded as she looked over at Rye. "How....how did you do that... And what are you?"
Celestia walked over to Rye. "young one, tell me what happened." Rye stared at his hands as he relayed what happened during the sparring match. Celestia listened intently as the other girls all gathered around. "I understand it was an accident, but you will need strict study to help control your magic. But i fear we may not be qualified to teach you what you need." Rye looked a bit dejected. "Don't worry young one, We will do our best." As every one turned their attention back to Shining Armor, Rye began to glow.
"HEL-" With a flash, Rye was swept into a ball of energy and whisked into the sky. Rainbow Dash barely turned her head in Rye's direction only to see him vanished into the light. She let out a whelp of surprise before following. The others turned to see Rainbow take off after a ball of light.
As the commotion finally died down, Twilight had made her way into the training grounds. "Princess, I've been looking every were for you. I found out..," As she looked around at the mess, her eyed grew large. "What happened here?!" Cadence walked over to Twilight.
"Shinning Armor and ... Rye were sparring. Rye was needing to do something to find relief. Something happened and Rye changed... He looked just like us..." Cadence was still trying to grasp all that happened. "Rye had literally blow Shinning Armor to the wall. Suddenly dust covered every thing. We were all knocked back and windows broke. As the dust settled, the sword Rye was using is were you see it now. Rye was a bit from there, Shining Armor lay unconscious. That's were Princess Celestia arrived."
"Were is Rye now?" Twilight was looking around for the boy. "And were is Rainbow Dash?" This all still made little sense to her. That's when Princess Celestia came to Twilights side. "Is my brother going to be OK?" Celestia nodded giving way for Twilight to sigh.
Rainbow Dash came back rather slowly, she appeared winded. "I followed it almost clear to Ponyville. I think it was on it was to the Everfree forest. But it was going too fast, even for me. What ever took Rye ... It had to some kind of magic. At least that's how it looked." Rainbow laid on the ground, her body finally giving way to exhaustion.
Twilight went to Rainbows' side. "Describe everything you saw and felt." At that moment Twilight levitated a notepad from her saddlebag. Sitting down by Rainbow, she first made note of how the arena looked, and what Rainbow said once she got back. "OK, start from the moment after the Princess arrived" Rainbow began to tell Twilight what took place.
Deep in the Everfree Forest, a ball of light, that carried a single passenger, dived into the ground. Rye could see all that was going on, but could not move. Once he was taken underground, he couldn't see a thing till a small green light in the distance. The light grew in size and brightness till Rye was blinded to the point of blacking out.
Rye slowly opened his eyes, the small amount of light in the center seemed magnified by the emerald walls. The green ambiance helped ease the headache Rye felt. "ugh...." Slowly sitting up, he looked around. Groans from his body escaped his lips. A shadow slowly came across a wall opposed to him, Rye froze in fear and curiosity.
"Oh goodie, you're awake!" A pink haired mare bounced into the room. "This place is HUGE! And there is no door out - or in for that matter. OH! And each room has a different color. It's like a really big party cave house." Her grin never faded nor did she breath during her little speech.
"Pinkie? How did you get here? And ... Are are you OK?" Rye had gotten to his feet and looked over the pinkie pony. "You seem fine... So care to show me around?" Rye's curiosity about the pink pony was begin to drive him crazy.
Pinkie Pie bounced out of the room, "Okie dokie lokie." Rye followed behind. His mouth hung open as they walked past many rooms. There were three more rooms just like the one Rye woke up in. "These must be bedrooms, but they don’t look all that comfy." Near the end of the hall held a staircase leading down. "OH and there are two more floors. Come on!"
Rye continued to follow Pinkie. "Are they all green in -" He couldn't finish as brightly colored lite rooms caught his attention. Two rooms were even bigger then the ones upstairs. The one on the left was light blue and held what seemed to be kitchen supplies. The one on the right was a bright orange and seemed to a dinning area. About that time Rye's stomach gave a low growl. "hehe, guess I'm a bit hungry. Does this place have anything to eat?"
Pinkie frowned a bit, "No! Not even cupcakes!" Pinkie bounced to the other end were stairs lead down. "This is the final floor. And its gigantic down there. There whole place is one room. And its shinny! Oh and Rye, no matter what we're your friends. Don't forget that." Pinkie started down the stairs before Rye could respond. Shaking his head Rye followed suit.
As he reached the bottom, the main thing that caught his attention was an image of an Alicorn in the middle of the room. "Pinkie, what is that thing?" She didn't say a thing, only nudged him towards it. "OK, OK. I'm going." He slowly started towards the image. Upon reach in front, he just froze. "So, what do I do?"
"Just talk to me, my child." The image spoke and looked right at him. Rye fell back in surprise. "Don't worry, young one. I am your mother." The image smiled at Rye. "My name is Aurora. Simply ask me any question you have and I will answer it."
Rye sat there starring at the Alicorn image. "Tell...no show me everything. How your our mother to why my brother is acting this way." The moment Rye spoke those words the room filled with a brilliant white light. As his vision returned he could see the room filled with lad equipment. As he looked around Rye noticed Pinkie was gone.
"Aurora! Aurora! We got it! The Portal finally connected to a new world!" A young unicorn shot up from behind a counsel. Rye looked around in bewilderment. "We can't hear anything but we can see the planet." From a separate room walked in Aurora. Her fur was a dark violet while her mane and tail were pastel rainbow. Her cutie mark was that of a group of stars connected by small lines resembling an Alicorn.
Rye stared at her as she walked over to see the results. "Nicely done Starswirl. Record the results and coordinates then shut it down. Check the crystals and the rest of the equipment for any damage. Then set up for the final go tomorrow morning. I have a few last minute details to setup before then." Aurora turned and left to a small room in the farthest corner.
Rye followed her into the room. She was facing a crystal, light emanated from it onto Aurora "My sweet children. I leave these crystals for you both. I am sorry I can't be here to guide you. This is my last one. It will be here to call you to my lab once you call upon the Alicorn half locked inside yourselves. I know you are also wondering how i know of you two. My youngest assistant Starswirl created a potion to peek into the future. As i drank from it, i saw many futures take place. But one stood out above the others."
Rye walked closer to her side, tears fell silently down his cheeks. "There stood two half Alicorn beings on two hooves. They were over shadowed by the shadow lord of the shade. I understand its not a lot to go on but I knew what i had to do. I was sure the two half-lings were related me since my main reason for the potion was to try and find the rainbow stones to help bring peace. Legend spoke of six of them. I was sure they were lost and that some were there had to be more like them. I pray your world will have them or something like them. I must go now my children." Her horn glowed and the crystal grew dark before floating to a near by pile.
As the stone gently lay on top of the others, Aurora sighed. Her emotions were running a bit wild. She was feeling scared but only what will happen after she is gone, she worried for her kind and her student. Steadying her nerves, she returned to Starswirl side to aid in finishing up for the experiment to take place in the afternoon. "Do you have everything ready for the final run?" Starswirl lifted his head from under the counsel with wires in his mouth. A grin plastered on his face, he nodded genetically before returning under the counsel. "Very good, I'll go make something to eat. Then we must talk."
Rye could see Starswirl peer over the counsel edge. "I wish there could be an other way, we all are going to be lost without your kind." Rye noticed a small tear slowly work its way down Starswirl's cheek. Rye didn’t fully understand all he was seeing but it was clear this was hours before Aurora had left her home for good. With out notice, the entire cavern shook violently. Aurora dashed back into the room only to seal the only door behind her. "What's going on?"
Aurora turned, fear filled her eyes. "They found us, i don’t know how but the shadow lord is here also. We must turn it on now, quickly! Before he breaks through. Once its open and i step through speak nothing of Alicorn again. For a time we will be forgotten but not gone. Hurry..." She darted back into the small room together all the crystals. Floating in front of her, she lay them by Starswirl "Final note, set up the largest crystal in the dead center of the room after you destroy everything. Then place the others in some pattern on it. I may be able to get shadow lord to follow me in, if that happens some kind of peace should return shortly after."
The cave walls shook once more. Magical traps could be heard going off in the farthest reaches of the cavern. "Aurora, they got in. They will be here in five minutes." Starswirl was rushing around setting up the machines as the walls shook more and traps went off. "Don't worry, I'll take care of everything..." The minutes ticked by quickly. Just as he turned on the device the final barrier Aurora setup was blasted open. Starswirl hide low and held his breath.
The room slowly filled with black smoke. The voice that followed was heavy and raspy. "Go my shadow warriors. Find her and kill. But leave any others alive for slaves." Masses of smoke billowed across the floor. Starswirl was shaking with intense fear when he heard a large blast. "You foolish Alicorn This will be you end....AAAAAHHHHH!" Starswirl barely peeked up to see the shadow lord rushing Aurora who was in front of the portal. She only held a grin as she turned and jumped in. "You won't get away from me that easily!" A large billow of smoke with red eyes and sharp claws rushed into the portal after her.
The other shadow creatures suddenly froze in place. Starswirl slowly stood up and looked at the creatures. "So they cant live with their master..." Rye walked in front of the portal as it was slowly closing, Starswirl turned to see the last place he saw his master. His jaw hung open ever so slightly. "You're real!" Starswirl nearly screamed. Rye quickly spun around facing the unicorn. "Oh my gosh. I can't believe it. The energy must be traveling in time as well... You look just as she described. An Alicorn on two hooves...." Rye looked at Starswirl questioningly, but didn't know the light had given his wings and horn a mystic like glow even though he didn't call them out. "listen carefully, i will leave a detailed journal behind hidden in the capital city or royal palace which ever may come. It will contain spells to aid in fighting the darkness once it returns. I will do what i can for now. You are not alone in this... Good luck" just as he finished speaking to Rye the portal closed up.
That moment Starswirl turned his attention back to the shadow creatures. "now to end this..." Magic gathered at the tip of his horn till it glowed as bright as the sun. As he released the energy a blinding light filled the room. Rye quickly shut his eyes, a few minutes later he could hear hooves on the crystals coming towards him.
"There you are, silly. You should have said you wanted to play hide seek. But now I found you! So what did I win!" Rye hardly opened his eyes as Pinkie jumped on him. She was smiling real big as if waiting for some hidden treat. Rye couldn't help but help but laugh.
"I wasn't playing a game, you silly filly. But I am glad to see you. And... I now understand why we are here. But ..." A slight frown came to his face, "I still don't get how to get my brother back." The crystals that lay at the base of the image of Aurora began to glow. Pinkie's jaw hung open as the crystals started to spin around in a circle. "Pinkie, what are you staring at?"
A male voice resounded from behind, "Inside these stones lay the magic used during the time of the shadow wars. The Alicorn most powerful secret is stored here only to be used by the decedents of Aurora Borealis. You who are her child, must learn the ways of unicorn magic before such power can be released to you. Take these stones and learn, but be warned only the most powerful unicorns and Alicorn can use these. All others shall perish to protect these secrets." The crystals slowed and returned to their previous positions.
Rye had been frozen in place the moment he heard Starswirl voice echo out of the crystals. "My child, if you wish to leave this place simply speak my true name and the location you wish to be. Mind you, this only works for this world alone... I am sorry." Rye smirked knowing he can get his brother back, maybe defeat this shadow lord and who knows what else.
"Pinkie, do you have a bag? We need to get these and go. The others have to be worried." Pinkie pulled up a bag already full with the crystals in her mouth. "Wow, OK hold tight to that. Aurora Borealis!" the large stone started to glow. "Canterlot Castle Thorn Room!" A bright flash blinded Rye and Pinkie for a moment only to see the thorn room start to materialize. Guards had taken position around them, Rye could see it was dark outside and Luna sat on the thorn.
Once the spell finished Luna quickly had the guards stand down. "Pinkie pie, friend of Twilight Sparkle. Who is this creature and how did you get in here?" The guards only moved to let the princess by. Rye gently took the bag from Pinkie and nodded at her. She happily told what took place up till rye vanished. Luna looked over at the boy. "So you are the one our sister spoke of. It has been two days since you both had been taken. Show them to their rooms, come morning our sister and we would like to hear your side of this... Rye am i correct?"
Rye nodded before giving a slight bow. "Some rest will be nice but if you don't mind I am very much hungry. Is there a place I can get some food?" Luna smiled at his polite yet somewhat rough attitude. "Pinkie if you wish, you can join me." Rye smiled at her, "Of course Princess you're more then welcome to join me if you're able."
Pinkie just shook her head, "thanks but I'm OK. I'll see you later." Pinkie turned and followed a guard out of the room. Rye turned his attention back to Luna. She had started across the room shortly after Pinkie left. Rye followed behind her slowly. His thoughts filled with everything he saw back in that cave. His face grew very serious as the scenes replayed in his mind.
"We shall head to the dinning hall. There we will have the chef prepare a meal for us both." As Luna looked back at him she could see that events were filling him with worry. "If you wish to talk to us, we are willing to listen. So is our sister and your new friends." Rye looked at her questioningly. Luna gave him a caring smile, "don't think you haven't made an impression on them. They saw you as a friend the minute you showed them such trust as to share your life with them. And you also seem to have a rematch with the captain of the guards. Something about going all out."
Rye laughed as he recalled the fight. "Thank you, princess. And some one to talk to would be nice. But can it wait till after we eat. I don't like to ruin a good meal with sour thoughts." Luna nodded and continued towards the dinning hall.
Meanwhile in Celestia's room, Twilight and Celestia were sitting on the balcony enjoying a cup of tea together. "You're still worried about him, my dear student. But fear not, this young stallion is stronger then we give him credit for. But his emotional state is in turmoil, the many deaths he had to endure weights heavy on him." A stern knock interrupted Celestia's train of thought. "Enter."
A guard opened the door and bowed. "Twilight Sparkle, your friend Pinkie Pie has returned with Rye. She has retired to her room for the night, but Rye and Luna have gone to the dinning hall. Your sister thinks it's a good idea to wait till he is rested before learning what has happened to him." Celestia nodded to the guard and he took his leave. Twilight sighed and smiled.
"Do you wish to see him?" Twilight shook her head. He needed rest and she was growing tired. "It's good to see you relax some. Shall we continue this in the morning?" Twilight nodded, stood and proceed to leave. "We shall see you at sunrise, my faithful student."
As the door closed behind her, Twilight let out a deep sigh. It was apparent that she hadn't rested since the day she found out Rye and Pinkie had been whisked away by magic. Making the long trek back to her own room seemed to take hours. Her body grew exhausted with each step. Thinking back over the last few days didn't help much.
(Two days ago)
"Rainbow, what's going on?" Twilight took a canteen from her satchel and passed it to Rainbow Dash. Drinking most of the content she told Twilight about the entire fight and then Rye's sudden departure. The look on her face was of great concern.
"That's not all, Pinkie is gone also. I think she might be with Rye. Not sure, but I gave it my all. I'm sorry Twi, I should have been faster." Rainbow just laid there, sadness ever growing on her. Applejack shook her head before making her way to Rainbow's side.
"Now don'cha fret none, Rainbow. You did all ya could and we are proud of it." Applejack placed a hoof on Rainbows shoulder. Smiling up at Applejack, Rainbow slowly made her way to her hooves. The exhaustion could be seen in her movements, Applejack stood next to her coaxing her to lean the offered support. Both Rainbow and Applejack made their way back inside the castle to let Rainbow rest.
Twilight shook herself into focus, "Let's tend to the injured first. We can send a scouting party to see if they can find a trace of Rye or Pinkie." Twilight turned to her friends. "Rarity, we need clean dressings for any wounds and fresh blankets. Fluttershy, I'd like you to help tend to injured. Once Applejack gets back, have her help carry ponies into the med ward. I'll set up a route for the scouts to follow. OK let's get this done!" Her friends cheered and split off to help each pony.
Celestia smiled before returning back inside. As the rest of the day progressed, no sign of Rye or Pinkie was seen. The injured were minimal and the repairs were underway. Twilight and her friends retired to the dinning hall while the guards finished the clean up. After they had their fill, they retired for the night. As the sun rose each of the girls set off to help were they could, but Twilight headed to the library.
She spent most of the night researching the old journal that was found, and who this S.S. is that signed the last page. "I don't get it. Why were such powerful spells left in a journal? And why was it hidden so deep in the archives?" Twilight spent the entire day and most of the night reading book after book. The sun was slowly raising into the sky when the librarian walked over to Twilight.
Gently shaking from the librarian jolted Twilight awake. "Sorry, I didn't mean to sleep in here." A light blush came to Twilights cheeks. Nodding the librarian went about her work while Twilight went back to learning more about the journal. Pulling out some old scrolls by Starswirl the Bearded for referencing, she noticed the signature was S.S.B. Her jaw slowly dropped as a revelation came to her. "Oh sweet Celestia! This was Starswirl the Bearded s journal. But why did he hide it?"
Spending the rest of the day reading the journal over and over, hoping to find some clues to what is going on. The moon had just risen as Celestia walked in. "Twilight, my faithful student, come with me. You have been locked up in here for days now. Let's go to my room and talk over some tea." Twilight looked at her mentor with eyes full of worry and exhaustion. Celestia placed a hoof on her shoulder coaxing her to stand and follow. Twilight sighed but got up, packed her things and followed.
(present day)
The sun had just began to rise when a loud knocking came to Rye’s bedroom door. Groaning he burred himself deeper into the blankets. The knocking persisted but Rye didn't move, out side the door the guard was growing impatient. Twilight was walking past when she noticed the frustrated guard "Is something wrong?"
The guard looked back at her and frowned. "I was sent to retrieve Rye. But i can't get him to answer. The princess wishes to know what happened to him and what those crystals are for." The guard knocked harder, growing even more frustrated. Twilight smiled slightly.
"I'll tend to him, let the princess know we will arrive once he is ready." The guard nodded and walked off. Twilight knocked on the door but waited for no response before heading in. Rye was sprawled across the bed with his head hanging off the edge. Twilight noted his cloths were folded neatly on the chair by the desk. "Rye, it's time to wake up." Twilight used her magic to force the blanket off him.
"Five more minutes mom, please. Damien kept me up all night...." Rye rolled to his stomach. Twilight gasped as she saw the claw like scars that littered his back. Rye continued lightly snoring as Twilight got closer, a evil grin came to her as she got an idea on how to wake him. Levitating the flower out of the vase and setting them aside before she lifted the vase its self.
"Rye, you need to get up. I'll drench you if you don't" Rye just groaned and covered his face with his arm. "I warned you." Twilight brought the vase over his head and turned it over. With a scream and falling off the bed Rye was defiantly awake. Giving Twilight a very annoyed look as she grinned down at him. "Glad to see your awake. The princess wants to see you."
Rye grumbled as he wrapped the sheet around his waist, "That was cold, Twilight." She only giggled a bit, "OK, I'll be ready in a few... After i shower of course." Twilight nodded and left the room. Rye got to his feet and headed to the private bathroom. Fifteen minutes past by before Rye walked into the hall. He noticed Twilight was waiting for him. "I'm ready, let's go."
In the throne room both Luna and Celestia were seated waiting for Rye to show. "So, sister, what do you think of our guest." Celestia looked over at Luna, who seemed a bit distracted this morning. "Luna, what's on your mind? You seem distant."
Snapping out of her thoughts, Luna looked at Celestia. "we're sorry, sister. The young stallions dreams were horrible. He has seen and been the cause of so much death, but in the name of freedom. He fought to save so many lives yet took many in turn. It all weights heavy on his heart." Just then the door open and a guard announced Rye and Twilight.
"We will talk more about this with him in private later sister. For now let us find out what happened recently." Luna nodded in agreement with Celestia. Once Rye and Twilight reached the thrones both bowed in respect to the princesses. "Rye, Twilight, I hope you both got plenty of rest. If you don't mind, please tell us what happened to you." Rye sighed as he bared himself for the long tale.
An hour had passed by as Rye finally ended his tale. "You got to see Starswirl the bearded!" Twilight couldn't restrain her excitement. "What was he like? Did he..." Rye placed his finger over her lips. A blush came to her cheeks.
"First, yes i saw him but didn't meet. Second he was really young cause he was just called Starswirl. Third, he mentioned a book he would leave hidden in the capital." Twilight and Celestia looked at each other before Celestia nodded. Twilight then removed a book from her saddle bag. Rye stepped closer, placing his hands under it, Twilight released the book. As if calling to him, Rye started to flip through the pages.
As he reach the middle, a spell stood out before his eye. In a trance, a silhouette of his horn became visible, he started to read it aloud. "From kingdoms lost, and harmony found. In this moment, let the truth ring loud. Let all secrets be heard." Back in Rye’s room the bag of crystals were glowing. Each crystal burst from the bag and broke through the door.
Rye blinked a few times, "what...what just happened?" Twilight quickly took the book back from Rye. Celestia and Luna could feel powerful magic was just released. Both princess took stances in case they had to fight back. "Twi, what's going on?" Rye felt a bit unease by the actions each pony was taking. "come..." The crystals suddenly burst into the throne room and started to encircle him. Rye look at Twilight with fear in his eyes.
The crystals began to bath Rye in a mystical light. A deep voice rang through the room, "Forged in the fires of Tartarus of metal only found deep under the mystic forest, Tempered by the mists of the floating city, and balanced by magic of a master lost. For the first born Princes of this land." A loud clank was heard before the light finally dissipated and the crystals went dormant.
Once the lighting returned to normal, Luna's jaw hung open. Rye was wearing golden armor. In the chest plate was magically eched his cutie mark. A black mass with a star in the center casting light outwards. The helmet and back were even modified to fit his wings and horn when called for. Rye looked to his left and saw similar armor but all black. "I will get you back, brother."
A week had passed since the event at the castle. Rye had returned with Twilight and her friends back to Ponyville. Celestia had requested that Rye leave the armor in Canterlot. During that week Twilight was teaching Rye to use magic as a normal human and not as an Alicorn half-breed. Rye could hardly lift a quill without sweat dripping off his face. “Come on Twi! I told you, humans can't use magic naturally! We have been doing the same spell for a week, and I still can't lift it more than an inch!” Rye slumped down on a near-by wall.
“Well...Okay, we can take the rest of the day off. Is there...” Before Twilight could finish she heard the door shut. Rye quickly made his way outside of town. As much as he enjoyed being around Twilight and her friends, he just wanted some time alone. The look he wore would make any pony worry.
Rye was more than thankful the streets weren't too crowded. Many of the ponies had seen him around town from time to time during the week, but some still avoided him. He continued walking, lost amongst the unlabeled roads. “Omg, don't ponies know how to label what street you're walking down. Of course not....” Rye finally found his way to the out skirts of town; he continued to just wander past a simple grass meadow. It wasn't till he stumbled onto a small lake that he stopped. Sitting near the water’s edge, he just stared into the water.
Back at Twilight's, she had paced around for a long while. She had started to worry about Rye and if he was okay. “Spike, I'm concerned about him. You don't think he would do something foolish, do you?” Spike had been putting books away, enjoying the silence, when Twilight's voice snapped him back to reality
“Oh don't worry, Twi. He might be helping some pony. Or he could just be having fun around town. He'll be back by nightfall.” Spike was wobbling on the ladder and as he placed the final book in its place on the shelf he heard the door shut. Spike simply sighed as he continued his work.
Twilight was standing outside the library; her eyes were scanning the city in wonder to which direction Rye had traveled. It was already late in day and night fall growing fast. Taking a deep breath Twilight started making her way towards Sugarcube Corner. If any pony had any sense of where Rye could be, that pony was Pinkie Pie.
“Wait just a moment, Twilight Sparkle.” From the sky a dark figure flew down a few yards away. “We are here to aide you with Rye in his training. How does he fair?” As the figure stepped in the street lights, it became clear that it was Princess Luna.
“Luna, it’s good to see you. And yes I need help with his training, but he went out today and he hasn’t returned. I have no idea where he currently is.” Twilight gave an exhausted sigh; her body was ready for rest from pacing and her mind needing peace from the worry.
Luna gave a gentle smile to Twilight as she started on her way north of town. “If we pay attention to the surroundings, we may very well find a clue as to where he is exactly at.” Twilight rolled her eyes, knowing that clues are the first thing to any detective work. “So what is the first thing you notice?”
Twilight looked around her and saw nothing but empty streets, then decided to listen. She could faintly hear distant noise, almost like that of music and singing. Nearly blindly, she started to follow the sound through the town. Taking random lefts and rights till they reached the lake that Rye was at. There was a small flock of birds singing in tune with him.
Twilight was in pure awe of what she saw. Rye was in tune with the birds till he suddenly stopped. “Thank you little ones, you should go now. It’s late and you all need rest.” The birds all chirped and flew off in random directions, leaving Rye to his thoughts. “Why did it have to turn out this way…?” An aching sensation from his heart grew stronger.
Rye started to hum gently and softly before it grew. The water of the lake started to respond in with a light mist that rolled onto land and around his feet. The wind almost took on what seemed to be a musical accompaniment. Twilight and Luna both watched now with jaws wide open.
“Whether I’m right or wrong There’s no phrase that hits Like and ocean needs the sand Or a dirty old shoe that fits”
While Rye was singing the water began to take shape. In the midst of the lake stood what look a boy near Rye’s age. His features were much leaner compared to Rye. Rye turned his head to the figure and kept singing.
“And if all the world was perfect I would only ever see your scars You know they can have their universe We’ll be in the dirt designing stars”
Rye slowly started to walk out towards the figure, which seemed to be smiling. Around this moment, the magic inside Rye fully awaked and his wings came into view but they seemed to be almost ethereal in nature. It was then that Twilight noticed him walking on the waters’ surface.
“And darlin’, you know That you make me feel so beautiful Nowhere else in the world I wanna be You make me feel so beautiful”
Once Rye reached the figure, he ran a hand along the face ever so gently. The figure seemed to move kind with his action. Tears were slowly falling down Rye’s face; the figure’s hand slowly came up and wipes them away.
“Whether I’m up or down There’s no crowd to please I’m like a faith without a clause To believe in it”
Rye proceeded to take the hands of the figure into his and slowly dance in around the lake. The moon light seemed to shine on them even brighter than before. Fireflies slowly filled the air giving it an almost celestial feel.
“And if all the world was smiling I would only ever want to see your frown You know the can sail away in sunsets We’ll be right here stranded on the ground Just happy to be found
You make me feel so beautiful Nowhere else in the world I wanna be You make me feel so beautiful”
As the two came back towards the center of the lake, Rye held the figure out by the hands and stared deep into his eyes. Tears were now falling down his cheeks in a steady pace.
“I have lost my illusions, I have drowned in your words I have left my confusion to a cynical world I am throwing myself at things I don’t understand Discover enlightenment holding your hand
You are So beautiful”
Rye slowly began to walk backwards from the figure as the environment started to slowly return to normal. Luna quickly cast a spell on Rye to send him into a dreamless sleep the moment his feet touched dry land. The second Rye touched dry land, he was asleep in seconds. Twilight cast a spell to levitate Rye before he hit the ground. “So Twilight, what have you learned here this night?” Luna walked out from the bushes over to Ryes’ floating body.
Rye slowly began to walk backwards from the figure as the environment started to slowly return to normal. Luna quickly cast a spell on Rye to send him into a dreamless sleep the moment his feet touched dry land. The second Rye touched dry land, he was asleep in seconds. Twilight cast a spell to levitate Rye before he hit the ground. “So Twilight, what have you learned here this night?” Luna walked out from the bushes over to Ryes’ floating body.
Twilight followed Luna, “That his emotions are holding him back and that they are also the key to unlocking the rest of his powers. But what makes me curious is how come his Alicorn half is still visible?” Luna noticed this as well and from the look on her face she was just as confused as Twilight.
“I’m not sure Twilight, but its best we call it a night here. You need rest and much as he does. Head home for now, continue his training when he wakes. You may end up with better results. I must go now Twilight.” Luna spread her wings took to the air and vanished in a blinding light.
Twilight turned to Rye, who was in a deep slumber. “We have a long way to go, my friend. But I have great faith that things will get better.” Taking care that he was safe, she started her way home with Rye, magically suspended in the air, in tow.
Suspended by his wrist, Damien slowly opened his eyes to an eternal darkness. “Finally you grace me with you presence.” Two red orbs floated in front of Damien. The only Light, emanating from the orbs, was cast across his face and chest. “Don’t worry; I’ll give back your body once I’m finished with your brother.”
The boy did not say or do a thing; he gave up fighting a long while ago. The demon just cackled at seeing the boy in such a state. ‘Yes, feed me. Make me stronger with your agony.’ The demon thought to its self. Looking into the orbs Damien could see a mirror reflecting his face with an evil grin and red eyes. He simply hung his head, he had no way out. He had lost hope that his brother would save him a long time ago and simply prayed that he would just end his life.
Damien could feel the binds, which tied his soul to the demons, cut into what strength he had left. “He won’t fall to you demon, nor would I have if I wasn’t a child when you came around.” Even if Damien gave up his fight, he knew that Rye would never give up until things went back to normal and that meant defeating Damien’s body or ripping the demon out … both ways will kill the boy in the end.
“Well, it seems you still have something of a spirit left in you. That’s good, if you gave in completely it wouldn’t be any fun to destroy both your home, your mother’s homeland, and kill your brother. But I have things I must attend too, so this will be the last time I talk with you for a long time.” Damien felt relief that he didn’t have to entertain this monster for much longer. But he now was curious what was to take place that was going to be so important that Damien wasn’t worth the torture.
Damien was use to how teleporting took place, with smoke that would cover the body then a slight jolt and the smoke then would clear. Of course Damien never knew where the demon was taking him till things where visible again. This time it seemed that the demon took him into the fortress of creatures that looked like unicorns but were black and had incest wings, and holes in various parts of their body.
“What is the meaning of this intrusion?!” A female voice rang out across the hall where Damien stood, “you had better have a good reason I do not just have you destroyed, creature!” A tall version of the creatures walked forward, unlike the others, this one seemed more regal in nature yet at the same time very dangerous.
“Fear not, Queen Chrysalis, ruler of all the changelings. I am Seirdoch, the demon general from year ago or has my name been lost to the ages.” Chrysalis looked at the boy and laughed, Seirdoch though wasn’t pleased with this. “Do not take this body as my own; it is merely a shell that I use to hold this boy a prisoner.”
“That is enough boy! Seirdoch was feared by all beings and was the master of the shadow army. That lies in wait for him to this day!” Just that moment five of the changelings turned on Chrysalis and started to hiss. The shadows on the walls started to extend from the wall like tentacles.
Chrysalis stared at the boy carefully before an almost demonic smile appeared on her face. “So the mighty Seirdoch has been brought down to the lowly body of a boy” Seirdoch snarled as shadows wrapped Chrysalis in tight bindings.
“Your army belongs to me now, Changeling, and it will be ready to march on equestrian soil soon.” Chrysalis struggled but nodded as she found the bindings stronger than herself. “Good, make no move till you hear from me again. I want you to strike at the perfect moment.” Seirdoch released Chrysalis and her changelings from his grip just as he vanished into a cloud of smoke.”
“GET THE SOLIDERS READY! WE ARE MARCHING TOWARDS THE EQUESTRIAN BOARDER! WE WILL TAKE CANTERLOT FOR OURSELVES!” Chrysalis roar orders out to all her drones, in a short time the hive was a buzz with activity. Chrysalis sat on her throne as things were prepared. “Once Canterlot is under my control, I will make sure no pony tries to fight back. And as for Seirdoch … I will deal with him later on. Maybe it wouldn’t be bad following his lead….nope I will rule it all!” Chrysalis let out an evil laugh while the changelings worked towards the upcoming battles.
