> Old Birds with Sharp Teeth
>  by Megalomart13
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue: Freedom Is A Gift No Longer Squandered
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Welp, I’m back. Yup, I am back. Back, I be… anyway. To any of the readers of my other fanfic, The Ugly, Bad or Good? A Sload’s Tale. It’s still alive. And I’m still alive. I WILL be updating that VERY soon, and I do owe you an explanation as to why it has not been updated and where I have been. Short and skinny of it? My computer blew up. Almost literally… it’s a… interesting tale, rest assured… I’ll tell you the whole story soon. Regardless, read this in the meantime, my own pathetic contribution to the universe created by the fics of ‘Humans Acting Villainous’ and be patient. I appreciate it, and promise you won’t have to wait long. At any rate, you all get an internet cookie if you can tell me who and what my human has turned into BEFORE I tell you at the end of this prologue. I’ll know if you cheat to! Heh, enjoy.








Prologue: Freedom Is A Gift No Longer Squandered





Dark and damp and cold and miserable… these words described my prison better than any others. 

Except perhaps ‘living’ and ‘hell’… 

How long has it been? A century? Two? A dozen? Bah, I don’t know why I’m asking. I know exactly how long it’s been. Suppose I’m going crazier than I thought… at any rate, to my knowledge, it has been one thousand five hundred sixty one years and fifty nine days… 

Counting the minutes turn into hours turn into days turn into years has been one of the few things that allow me to properly plan and keep what scraps of my sanity are left… and by all the gods listening, I wish there was another way… because it has been mind-rendering boring.

Over a millennia trapped in this godforsaken pit. Over a thousand years languishing here, watching my body wither and decay… and being able to do NOTHING about it. Over a millennia and a half of trying desperately to escape. But today… is that day. 

Today… I WILL be free. 

And when I am, those two solar-sucking, lunar-crazed, beasts of burden excuses for princesses will pay… pay for betraying me. Pay for robbing me of my right, my life, MY EMPIRE!

But first… first the finishing touches on my escape plan.

I grunted as my withered hand clutched the sharpened stone shard in a death-like grip as it chiseled the final details into my masterpiece. 

The many chains connected to my shackles, which leashed me to the rock floor below me, rattled with each movement I took. The faint glow from their vile enchantment provided me with the light I required to continue my work.

For so many years… that sound, the sound of rattling chains and creaking bones is all I have heard. For so many years, the stench of my own rotting flesh and decaying clothes were the only smells I could appreciate. For so many years… the glow of the enchantment on the tools of my prison, were all the light from which I could see. 

Oh dear God… please let today be the day…

If there was one thing I was grateful for in this prison, it had to be the light… this task would have been impossible without it, and I laugh at the one folly my jailors had made. 

But not now. I had to concentrate. I had to be precise. I had to be careful. It HAD to be perfect… it wouldn’t work if it wasn’t. 

Surrounding me were hundreds of failed attempts. Their inadequacies varying from one to another. Some were proportioned incorrectly… some I had simply made mistakes and chipped off a vital piece of its structure… others simply had impurities in the stone, and that would not do at all. But this one… this one was finally perfect… this one would be my salvation… it… it HAD to…

Please… please let this one work… oh God, please…

I limped back, my breath heavy and uneven and stared with misty eyes as my creation stared back at me with lifeless orbs. I took in every detail, the claws, the arms, the many legs, the shell, the face… all of it… all of it was perfect… PERFECT. Even after all these years, with conditions that would drive anyone mad, I still had an artisan’s touch… that was one thing those two demons in holy guise could not take from me.

I approached my creation and threw my arms around it, my withered and aged body shuddering with joy as I held my one chance to escape this horror.

I looked into its stoic face and with a crazed smile and ancient words no longer fit for this world, I breathed outward, by breath carrying with it a silver mist. This was my magic, magic dark and forgotten, transferring a single year of my already endangered life into my child. I had already wasted so many years trying to bring disasters to life… I didn’t have too many more…

I quickly moved back and watched, already plotting what I would do first, which of my projects I would resume, how I would retake my kingdom, which one of the cursed royal sister’s necks I would snap first. 

I watched with baited breath… as nothing happened…

No… no… please… no… what was wrong? I… I had done everything right… everything perfectly… just like in the old days… back when… back when… No… NO! This wasn’t fair… It’s been long enough, damn it! I want out! I served my time! I WANT OUT! LET ME OUT! PLEASE! Oh God… please…

I fell to my knees, ignoring the pain as I felt the impact on my brittle bones. Why… why… I would have cried if all my tears hadn’t dried up three centuries ago… and if my aged ears didn’t hear a slight crack of stone and rattle of pincers. My head shot up so fast I swear I heard a crack, but any stress I put my withered old body through was worth it… oh so worth it as I saw cracks run over my masterpiece and the telltale signs of movement from beneath.

Slowly I began to whimper, which turned into a chuckle, which turned into a full blown laugh of victory as I threw my arms up in triumph as I watch shards and plates of stone burst forth from my one hope. I continued to laugh as it skittered forth from the dust and smoke caused by it’s impressive entrance, my mad chuckling never once ending as I took in more and more of it’s wondrous features. Features I myself had spent countless days sculpting and carving to life-like perfection, now full life, flesh and blood, standing before me. A testament to my will and power, even in here!

Impenetrable black exoskeleton shined in the dim light, a three-clawed hand grasped at empty air and a giant pincer of immeasurable strength snapped loudly, as if eager for something to crush. It’s many legs skittered restlessly while it’s glowing eyes stared at me with cold obedience and a mad desire to protect and serve. 

Standing before me was what could only be described as some mad combination of crab, spider and flea. But to me, it was the most beautiful thing in the world.

My greatest creation, my hope turned savior, my gift to history, my soldier, guardian, servant and my escape from this hell. 

My deadly Garthim.





I laughed as I shambled forward, my decrepit legs nearly buckling under the excitement.

“Garthim…” How long had it been since I heard my own voice? Since I had a reason to speak? …it came out like glass scraping stone.

It stood still at once, it’s eyes locked on me as it awaited my orders.

“You are Garthim… soldier, destroyer… you are my creation… you will follow only MY orders. You will protect me with your life.”

It stood completely still, not moving an inch. Good. That means the orders were recognized and accepted.

“Now… release me from these chains! Free your master!” I held up my wrists, the chains dangling in front of the great crustacean-like beast.

Without a moment’s hesitation it hefted it’s huge, razor-like pincer upwards and with precision and skill expected from a swordsman rather than a hulking berserker it sliced my bonds to ribbons. I cackled madly as the chains fell to the floor, their glow vanishing as their enchantment died. Their magic suppressing my life energy and strength were gone, and already I could feel my power returning to me. I could no longer demolish towers with ease or crush boulders with a swing of my arm… but it was a start.

“Come Garthim… there is much to do…” I called out as I walked towards the spiral stairway leading to the exit of this horrible place. The only way, with which they brought me in, and never expected me to walk out.

My creation hefted itself up and skittered after me, walking up the stairs with it’s crab-like legs carefully as I shambled up as quickly as possible.

It took over an hour to reach the top of the stairs. That’s how far down we were… that’s how much they wanted to keep me forgotten…. FOOLS…. It wasn’t enough.

I shambled forward, nearly tripping over my tattered robes as my Garthim and I came to the final obstacle standing between us and the outside world. A large set of stone double doors etched with runes, barred with thick wooden bars and aglow with protection charms from a bygone age. 

I looked over it and cackled softly. I looked to my Garthim and considered ordering it to free us… but I was not dead yet… I was not weak… I was alive and strong… and I would prove it to myself once more. Even if my body and better judgment protested with every bit of their being.

I hobbled over to the door and took in it’s every detail. I recognized the craftsmanship… it bore an uncomfortable likeness to my own. Which could only mean two beings could have possibly done all this. Done all this with what I had taught them. Traitorous wretches! Ungrateful swine! I would show them… I would not be forgotten. I shall not lose. I refuse to die!

With a roar of anger I raised my arm high and brought it down with the force of a thunderbolt.

My shriveled fist and withered forearm bashed against the door with the sound of a drum being busted through. I watched with grim satisfaction, even as my arm ached with pain, as the door busted open outwards, showering the now visible forest before me with shards and chunks of stone large enough to snap the trees they landed on. 

I took three steps… three simple steps, strong and proud… and I was free.

Freedom… a gift, not a right, but a gift… so many beings take for granted… never once thinking their lives, loves and joys, might be snuffed out as easily as a candle… leaving them in the dark… forever.

I breathed in the fresh air of the night, basked in the beautiful moonlight, listened to the sounds of wild animals and the rushing wind… I was free… I was free!

I was free, and I would retake what was mine! I would make the world remember my name once more!

And those two pony bitches better watch their backs! Ha ha!









Far away, in a castle of gold and marble, resting in a bed of silk and velvet, Princess Celestia, beauty unmatched, and co-ruler of the most prosperous land in the world, tossed and turned in her sleep. Her multi-colored mane whipped about as its owner seemed to weep silently, and her bed creaked as it tried to keep up with her wild and grieved movements. 

With a gasp and tear-stained eyes she shot up in bed, looking frantically to and fro. As if searching for a specter she knew to be there, and terrified that she couldn’t already see. She ran a foreleg through her hair, tracing through the perfect locks in an effort to calm herself.

The sound of galloping hooves quickly grew louder and the doors of her bedroom burst forth, causing the Alicorn pony great alarm. Celestia whipped her head towards the door in a silent scream, as if expecting to see the object of her worry there. But instead relief and love filled her as she saw only her sister, adorned with her silver regalia.

“Tia! Art thou alright? We sensed thy pain.” Princess Luna said in the Old Tongue, laced with worry and fear of her own.

“Oh Lulu… I had the worst possible dream… I… I thought…” Celestia began only to stop as she saw the pain-filled look on her sister’s face.

“Tia… that twas no dream… if it were, I would have known of it. Why do you think I am here? I sensed it as well… as you did, even in your sleep.”

“No… please, Lulu. Please tell me it was but a nightmare.” The Solar Princess pleaded.

Her Lunar counterpart simply closed her eyes and shook her head.

“I’m afraid not, dear sister… SkekUng the General, Emperor of the Griffons… has returned.”

Celestia looked at her sister for a brief moment in horror before closing her eyes and steadying herself. With a quick intake and outtake of breath she jumped out of her oh so comfortable bed. She grew a determined look upon her face and with a flash of magic, her appearance was restored to that of a strong ruler, coat brushed, mane perfect, and her gold regalia in their proper places.

And then… she spoke three simple words, laced not with fear or worry, but with the authority and experience of millennia.

“We must prepare.”








> Chapter One: Alone with my Memories and my Garthim
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

And…. First proper chapter go!








Chapter One: Alone with my Memories and my Garthim




I shambled forward as quickly as my decrepit body would allow me, my rotting and threadbare robes apparently delighting in tripping me up at every opportunity. I was only vaguely aware of my general direction, but that didn’t matter to me half as much as the feeling of strength and life slowly returning to me. Filling my old body with a new sense of life and purpose. 

Damn, did it feel good.

I gulped down the fresh, crisp night air as if it were fine wine, I drunk in the colorful, peaceful sights around me as if it were the greatest feast I had laid eyes on. I was free… FREE! Free from that hellhole and back into the world… oh the things I have missed… the things I could now do!

My eyes constantly scanned the world about me, looking for anything I recognized, and failing miserably. From the looks of it I was in some crazy-looking forest… but not one I was familiar with. Still, that could mean anything. I had been in that infernal prison for over fifteen hundred years… a lot has no doubt changed. All for the worse, I had little doubt.

I cast a hateful glance behind my shoulder at the mountain that housed my cell as it slowly but surely vanished in the distance. 

The moment I reclaimed my empire and had a decent number of Garthim and cannons, I was coming back to demolish the whole thing… the entire mountain would be naught but rubble once I was through.

That brought a smirk to my beaked face. My yellowing fangs glistening and my mouth watering as a basked in my freedom and thoughts of justice drifted through my mind. Hmm, but justice would have to wait…

While I looked back I saw my wondrous Garthim following loyally behind me, completely silent save for the soft skitter of it’s many legs. Even if I could not see them moving, I knew it’s eyes were as busy as mine. Taking in the area and looking for any dangers to me. Ah… such grand creations, my beloved Garthim. I couldn’t wait to make more... after I got a few more years in my body that is.

I allowed a genuine smile to cross my beak and continued to walk forward, but gave a quick glance to the night sky. If there was one thing that wouldn’t have changed much in my absence it was the stars. Their wisdom would surely tell me where I was.

Immediately I recognized several constellations of this planet. The Horseshoe, the Wing, the Flame… the Two Sisters… bah. 

Yet I didn’t recognize their positions! Hmmm.

That could only mean I was no longer in my beloved Stratorus. The Empire of the Griffons. MY empire, which I had won through a combination of war, honor, industry, and love of my proud griffons.

And a kingdom TAKEN from me by those two traitorous sisters… curse them… curse them to death! No, no… torture first, THEN death… Yes… First I’d split their hooves, a nice big iron spike should do well for that. Then perhaps a few cuts and lacerations with a rusty butcher’s knife? No… a cleaver! Yes. Oh, and those ridiculous wings of theirs would be the first to go for good, oh yes… Twist, twist, twist… SNAP! Ha ha!

I stopped as those thoughts entered my head. Curses of torture and death… was that who I was now? A being of hate and violence? …apparently so. Heh. How far I had fallen since I first came to this world… oh… I was so full of life and mercy then… back when I was young and my humanity was still fresh…






Another world, another age:


“Dude! Come on!” My best friend Justin cried from his adjacent room in our hotel, busting in as if it were his own room.

Rude.

“It starts in like, forty minutes!”

He crossed his arms as he looked at me from behind his orange shades, he looked rather annoyed honestly. He was dressed in a rather good cosplay of Alucard from the anime Hellsing. He had gotten all the fabric and colors just right, and he was tall enough to pull it off. He had grown out his hair and dyed it black just for the occasion too. Had to give him props for dedication.

“Dude, just slow the fuck down, ok? We got plenty of time. We’re like, ten minutes away from the convention.” I said as I readied the wire and rubber head of my own costume, placing it on my bed.
I was nearly finished getting my own cosplay together, and was in the process of pulling the gray, gnarled, skin-like gloves over my hands and forearms.

“Pfffft, yeah but I wanna get there early. Sooner we get there, the sooner we get to see hot girls in skimpy anime outfits. Oh man, this is gonna be GREAT. I mean come on… who could resist Alucard, most badass vampire of all time! And his… creepy bird… lizard friend. What the hell is this thing again, mate?” Justin asked as he pointed to the wire-frame and rubber mask of what looked like a scaly vulture head on my bed.

“Dude, I explained it to you on the plane. Seriously, how have you never seen the Dark Crystal? It was like, a huge childhood thing in the eighties and nineties. One of Jim Henson’s masterpieces!” I explained to my friend in a slow manner, as if talking to a child.

“Eh, most I watched of Henson was the Muppets and Fraggle Rock. Damn that was a good show… didn’t know he also made horror stuff.” He said with a tilt of his head.

Alucard with a confused head tilt? One of the funniest things in the world, let me tell ya.

“Well… it wasn’t really horror. It was dark fantasy. But it DID scare the hell out of kids when they saw it, but they loved it all the same. Henson was of the mind that it was unhealthy for people, kids especially, to NEVER be scared. And I agree. Fright gives people a bit of fun sometimes, and puts certain things in perspective.” I reasoned as I picked up the large but light-weight harness and strapped it to my back, giving me a hunched over look.

“Whatever dude. Still… it is a freaky looking thing. Vulture looking creeper… And it looks just like the pictures you showed me. How much did you spend on this thing, man?” He asked with a chuckle as he began to poke at the rubber head like a child.

“Eh, not as much as you think. It took time more than anything else. But I’m happy how it turned out.” I replied as I draped my armored robe over my new hunch and began to fiddle with the frills and underclothing.
“Heh, you were always the artistic one. What’s this dude’s name again?” Justin asked as he picked up the head and tossed it to me.

I chuckled as I caught it, turned, put on the head as fast as I could and spun back around with an impressive snarl on the rubber face. I LOVE hidden puppet controls.

“Behold! I am SkekUng! General and Garthim Master of the Skeksis! Now! Bow down to me! For I am so much more than that! I… am… EMPEROR!” I screamed in my best dark and gravelly voice as I threw my arms out wide.

Justin simply laughed and clapped his hands in applause.

“Dude that IS pretty awesome! Might not get any chicks, but you got a decent shot at the costume contest. Now come on! This is my first time at Comic-Con and I don’t wanna be late! You can make any touch ups on the way.” He says as he picks up the wide-brim hat that completes his costume and walks out.

“Alright, alright, I’m coming.” I said with a chuckle as I began to fiddle with the costume from the inside, following close behind as we made our way downstairs.





I sighed as my memories left me for the time being… I missed Justin… I missed my family… I missed my world…

But I shook my head violently from side to side, jarring memories and emotions away and barring them from my wizened heart. No use getting all sad and mopey now… I was here in THIS sugar-coated lie of a world now. I had built a life of my own HERE now. My family and friends were DEAD now. …and even if they weren’t, no one in this world had the magic nor technology to even attempt to send me back. 

Besides… I wasn’t even sure if I still wanted to go back at this point…

Bah! I hate thinking about this stuff… it gets me upset. And that gets me angry. And when I’m angry I can hardly think strait. My temper was a thing of legend in these lands, but right now I needed my senses. As I tried to banish these depressing thoughts, I heard a soft chattering to my left and on reflex my head snapped towards the small sound. 

I saw a large squirrel sitting on a low hanging branch about eye level to me, happily devouring acorns and other nuts without a care in the world, seemingly singing a little tune to itself in it’s own tongue.

How… sweet. Very… sweet… indeed.

A cruel smile slowly started to form on my beak as a small bit of drool leaked from my fangs. My lizard-like tail began to swish to and fro as I slowly and silently limped over to the small rodent.

It didn’t notice me at all until I was right in front of it. Foolish little thing. It blinked and looked up at me with an adorable little tilt of it’s head. It blinked a few more times before smiling happily and offering me the acorn it had been attempting to crack not seconds earlier. 

My smile grew a little as my arm shot forward and grabbed the squirrel around it’s middle in a death-like grip. It squeaked loudly in fear, flailing madly… for about two seconds. After that I had popped it into my mouth and began to chew as hard as I could, silencing any protests it might have had.

My sharp beak sliced apart the fur with ease as my teeth began to crush down the bones and slice apart the meat. Spitting out a good bit of the saliva-drenched fur I swallowed my small, unexpected dessert with great gusto. With an ecstasy you will never understand, I felt the sweet meat, powdered bone and nourishing blood slide down my throat slightly appeasing a gaping maw in my gut that will never truly be silenced. 

With a satisfied nod I raised my hand and wiped the drool and blood from my beak. It did little to assuage my gaping hunger of more than a thousand years… but it was a start, and it did an admirable job of clearing my head. We all need comfort food from time to time.

But now I needed to go… I needed to get out of this forest and back to friendly territory. I needed to get away. I NEEDED to get back to Stratorus and bash whatever fool of a featherhead was sitting on MY throne… 

My throne… The Obsidian Throne of Stratorus… ah, such memories… these ones of a happier nature. Memories of the home I made for myself, so long ago now.

The Empire of Stratorus was a vast land to the northeast of Equestria. It my time it was a large, mountainous region with many stone spires, steep hills, deep valleys, twisting canyons, only a few large open plains, and completely surrounded by a huge stretch of wild forest. This made it unsuitable for most creatures, who needed flat land to grow, farm and live. 

But for my proud griffons, who could survive much worse, it was a perfect home.

We made towns and villages in the valleys, carved out the canyons for our stone and mineral requirements, made mighty cloud cities all across the region, hunted in the forests for sweet meats and wild herbs and used the flatlands for massive farms to suit their limited vegetarian needs. 

Such proud monuments we built together… first and foremost of which, was the grand city of Nimbus, perched upon the highest mountain in the land, serving as the impenetrable capital of the Empire.

I remember it well, even now… the high walls of black stone, imprinted with silver and marble carvings. Steel gates, denying all but friends entry to our grandest of homes. High spires of shining gold and crystal fixtures stood proudly against the skyline. Circular dwellings of wood and rock, large and spacious, safe and sound. Tower upon tower, home upon home, sector upon sector, providing warmth and shelter for all.

And as I envisioned the city itself, so too could I see my proud griffons. My loyal subjects, living the lives they deserved.

Mighty griffon soldiers and guardsman, patrolling all across the realm, backed up with my deadly Garthim to suit tasks too dangerous for them. Merchants and tradesmen bustling in the Bazaar… Craftsman showing off their wares… civilians laughing, celebrating, eating, drinking… the hatchlings and fledglings playing in the streets, constantly getting undertalon of every adult they could find…

I stopped suddenly as I felt something land on my withered and calloused hand. I stared down and saw a tiny droplet of water… I reached up experimentally and to my great relief found both cheeks dry. 

I scoffed, it must be getting ready to rain. That would be just my luck. I continued to tell myself this, even as not a single cloud or pegasus entered the sky. Regardless, I continued on my journey, my Garthim continuing to follow close behind.

The more I thought about it, the more I grew more and more furious. 

The land of the griffons, was mine by right of power and conquest. It was I that had lead the griffons out their past, a past filled with feuding battles and primitive tribal clans. It was I that had taught them the secrets of weapon smithing and alchemy. It was I that lead them in conquest against the mountain goblins of the west and claimed a good, rich land for them to call home… and I would not be denied my right. Even if they did not remember me… even if they did not recognize my claim. 

I would be Emperor of the Griffons again!

No matter what.

I looked up at the sky as I continued my trek, staring hatefully at a sun I could not see and the moon that I could see all too well.

“And when I am Emperor once more… I am coming for you… pray that you are prepared…” I spoke gruffly to the celestial bodies, knowing well that the ones in charge of them could not hear me, but still cursing them all the same.

As if hearing my threat, a few of the larger stars near the moon shone brightly before fading from view.

I arched a gnarled eye-ridge at the strange sight before letting out a hoarse chuckle, my quiet cackling seeing me all the way out of the woods.





Celestia paced back and forth, staring at the cold tiled floor of the council chambers of Canterlot Castle in quiet worry. Luna meanwhile, was watching her sister in a silent mix of annoyance and amusement. Every so often she would mouth a few words, along with the Solar and Lunar Guards who were keeping watch. To anyone paying attention, it was clear the Princess of the Moon and the Guards were… making a small game out of Celestia’s worry. Counting how many times the Ruler of the Day paced back and forth, how quickly she did so, and the length of which each pace consisted.

In their defense, they could do little else until Princess Twilight and the rest of the Council of Friendship arrived.

Luckily for Celestia’s nerves and Luna’s interest, they did not have to wait long as the double doors of the chamber burst forth and said mares entered, along with their pegasi guard escorts which had personally delivered them via royal chariot.

“Celestia, Luna! We came as soon as we could. What’s wrong? It’s the middle of the night.” Asked Twilight Sparkle, her concern clear for all to see.

“Yeah… and SOME of us were sleeping…” Rainbow Dash mumbled drowsily, rubbing her half-lidded eyes with her hoof.

Applejack and Rarity mumbled their quiet agreement, both looking as tired and irate as their prismatic companion. Rarity herself was still in her nightgown and curls for goodness’ sake.

Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy seemed noticeably more awake however, and merely tried to comfort their sleepy friends.

After offering Rainbow Dash an annoyed stare Twilight turned back to her former mentor, the look in her eyes repeating her question.

Celestia merely offered the Elements of Harmony a small smile of apology before speaking, her sister approaching to stand at her side.

“I apologize for calling upon you so late at night, my little ponies. But we have reason to believe a great threat has reappeared, and I believe it will take all of our combined strength to send it back into the darkness it came from.” The Solar Princess explained, her own eyes filling with worry to match Twilight’s.

“Oh great… what is it this time?!” Rainbow Dash asked exasperated.

“Rainbow!” Twilight nearly growled. “What she means, Princess, is what kind of threat?”

“We believe it would be best if we waited for our final two guests to arrive.” Princess Luna said with a small smirk at Rainbow’s behavior.

“There are more coming? Oh, oh! Who? Who? Much more and this will be enough for a party!” Pinkie Pie exclaimed.

As if the universe were reacting to the pink pony’s words, a bright flash of pink and blue appeared not too far away from the royals and heroines. The gathered ponies all raised a hoof to shield their eyes from the arcane light. As it dimed and faded however, they all looked over to see…

Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and Prince Shining Armor.

“Shiny! Cadence!” Twilight called out in delight, momentarily forgetting her worry and rushing over to her sibling and sibling-in-law.

“Twily!” Shining Armor laughed as the two sibling embraced lovingly. 

They released one another and nuzzled affectionately before Twilight reenacted the scene with Cadence, with a bit extra.

“Sunshine, Sunshine! Ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!” The two laughed at the silly little rhyme before embracing once more.

“It’s so good to see you two! So you’re the ones Princess Luna said would be joining us?” asked Twilight.

“That’s right, although we’re not sure about what.” Cadence said with a confused glance to her aunts.

“Yeah, all your message said was that a huge threat may have appeared and we need to talk, NOW.” Shining backed up his wife.

“Yes, and I must apologize. But there was little time for details. This way.” Celestia said as she walked forward, towards the council table.

On which was a familiar looking book…

Twilight and Cadence recognized it at once. It was the same book that held the tales of Nightmare Moon and Tirek the Terrible. At once they both got a bad feeling.

“Long ago, a creature roamed this world and its lands without restraint or remorse. Sowing corruption and dark knowledge wherever he went. He was an odd being, never before and never again seen in all the world. And he called himself… SkekUng.”

With a glow of magic Celestia began to flip through the pages, before settling on one and placing the book on the table for all to see, showing the assembled ponies a black and white portrait of what appeared to be a cross between a lizard and a buzzard dressed in bulky robes and carrying a short, sharp scepter.









Many of the assembled blanched or grimaced at the creature’s gnarled and decayed look, as well as the frightening fangs and violent glint in it’s small eyes that were evident even in a picture.

“My word, what a ghastly brute. Although I must admit his attire isn’t half-bad.” Rarity said, rubbing her hoof along her chin.

“Oh my, he looks so sick…” Fluttershy said in worry.

“Wowie Zowie! I bet he’d be really fun on Nightmare Night! He’d be all like ‘Rawr!’ and ‘Caw!’ and ‘I’m gonna devour you all!’!” Pinkie nearly shouted as she waved her forelegs in a silly manner.

“Eeesh, kinda freaky lookin’ if ya ask me…” Rainbow Dash said with a raised eyebrow and her tongue stuck out in slight disgust.

“I’m inclined to agree wit’cha there Dashie…” Applejack said with a distrusting frown on her face.

“Princess… what is this… creature?” Asked Twilight, looking to her fellow royal.

“We are not exactly sure ourselves. All we know is that his name was SkekUng, and he called himself a ‘Skeksis’. From what we were able to observe in the many years we knew him, he appeared to be a strange creature, possibly a chimera of sorts, as he possessed the beak and talons of a bird, but much of the rest of his body was lizard-like and serpentine.” Explained Luna as she stared at the picture with an undecipherable expression.

“SkekUng was an extraordinarily dangerous individual, as well as completely amoral. He was interested in only his goals, cared only for his needs and would destroy any who got in his way. Through awe-inspiring shows of power and brute strength, he won the hearts of the ancient griffons and became their first Emperor. And for a time, ruled them well. However, he delved into secrets both dark and forbidden, and committed acts that were… unforgivable. He blasphemed against both the laws of magic and nature, supposedly all for the sake of his subjects and himself.” Celestia said with a glower.

“What made him so dangerous?” asked Shining Armor, always the guard as he studied the picture and committed it to memory. 

“Many things. His brute strength surpassed that of even a raging Minotaur or young dragon, and he had skill with numerous weapons. Supplementing that was the fact he was very resistant to many forms of magic.” Luna said, looking around at the many ponies different reactions.

“Resistant to magic… what do you mean Princess?” Asked Twilight with concern.

“He was not immune to the arcane, at least not in the strictest sense. But spells directed at him did not ever have the desired effect. A fireball did nothing but give him a mild burn, a focused blizzard only made him slightly cold, translation spells allowed only a few select words to be understood. That sort of thing.” Celestia supplied.

Twilight seemed absolutely gob smacked at that.

“But… but that’s impossible! Only dragons have been recorded with that sort of defense against magic and that has everything to do with their huge size! How…? Is this ‘SkekUng’ that big?” asked a flabbergasted Princess of Friendship.

“No. He stands about the same height as our sister. We do not know how his resistance is possible, but that is the truth of things. But his strength, skill and resistance to the arcane are not what makes him so dangerous. It is his intellect.” Princess Luna explained.

“Indeed. SkekUng is a knower of dark and terrible knowledge. He alone knows secrets of magic, science and alchemy that were best left forgotten for all time.” Celestia said with a growl.

“Indeed, but we were speaking more of his strategic mind. In his time he gathered many titles, his favorite being ‘the General’. His battle strategies and war scenarios were nothing short of brilliant, and he supplied the early griffons not only with fool-proof plans, but advanced weaponry as well.” Luna countered.

“You sound as if you almost admire him.” Said Cadence.

All eyes turned to Luna save Celestia, as she already knew what words would come forth from her sister.

“It is hard not to. We used to be great friends after all.” Luna said nonchalantly.

“WHAT?!” cried the assembled ponies.

“But, but you just said he was a monster… how c-could?” asked a royally (pun intended) confused Twilight.

“He was not always so… there was a time when he was a just ruler with a strong moral compass. He was vibrant, jovial and kind. But as he aged, his youth vanished and his body withered. His true nature surfaced for all to see.” Celestia said grimly.

“So… what happened to him?” asked Rainbow Dash, enthralled by the story. It was like one of her Daring Do books!

“After the true extent of his crimes surfaced, and his defilement of the land and its creatures came to light, we could not ignore it. Nor could we ignore the threat he posed to Equestria. We rose up against him and imprisoned him deep within the earth, away from his instruments of corruption and power, locked away for all time.” The Princess of the Day responded and for the briefest moment, a look of sadness washed over her face.

“We, however, could not hide our involvement… only… twist the story somewhat. The griffons learned of what we had done, but they believed we had slain their beloved leader. We felt it was best that way. If they learned he was imprisoned somewhere in the world, they may secretly search him out, and free him.” Luna said with a small frown.

“Is that why our relations with the griffons have always been… strained? They… they think you killed their greatest ruler?” asked Cadence.

The two sisters could only nod in confirmation.

“Pffft. Strained? Try downright hostile. I know griffons, I’ve hung out with griffons. Almost NONE of ‘em like ponies as a whole.” Rainbow Dash added.

“Indeed… they would not listen to our claims of their emperor becoming dark and twisted… to them he was their beloved immortal emperor, who had shown them the world and all its wonder.” spoke Celestia softly.

All the gathered ponies were silent for a while at that depressing bit of information.

“So… what should we do?” asked Twilight hesitantly. She trusted her former teacher with her life, but something was… off here. She felt it in her bones. It was if the Princesses weren’t giving them the full story. But that was silly... right?

“We must find SkekUng and contain him before he escapes our reach. We imprisoned him not far from the Stratorus border and should he cross it… no, we cannot allow that. Whether it will be needed to imprison him once more or not, has yet to be seen… but we cannot yet allow him to reach his former subjects… there’s no telling what might happen.” Celestia said firmly.

“Well let’s go then! We’ll catch this scaly birdbrain and then I can get back to bed!” Rainbow cheered.

“I’m in complete agreement with you, darling!” Rarity chuckled.

“Darn tootin’!” Applejack agreed.

“Wait, Princess Celestia, I have to ask.” Shining Armor said with a raised hoof.

“Yes Shining Armor, what is it? And I’ve told you, call me Celestia, or Aunty. We’re family after all.” Smiled Celestia.

“I understand why you summoned Twilight and her friends… but why me and Cadence? Would you just like more resources for the search or…?”

Celestia’s smile disappeared as she sighed.

“Not only that… but I called upon you because I feel the Crystal Empire may also be in danger should he slip through our hooves.”

“Why is that?” asked Cadence, concern for her subjects coming to the surface in an instant.

“Because crystals have always been a large source of great power for SkekUng. In fact, I dare say no one knows more about their mysteries and majesty than he. It was he after all who allowed Sombra to gain such dark mastery of crystal magic…” she said almost to herself.

“WHAT?!” cried the assembled ponies for a second time that night… and possibly not the last.





> Chapter Two: Old Friends, Fresh Hatred
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Super Chapter Two power activate! Energy sparkle power start! Super force Go Go! …yeah, I’ll start the chapter now. Have to admit, not entirely happy with this one... make sure to tell me what you guys think.








Chapter Two: Old Friends, Fresh Hatred




“WHAT?” the assembled ponies cried as one.

“She said that-” Luna began, only to be stopped by her sister.

“I think they mean how SkekUng is responsible for Sombra’s deeds, sister.” The Solar Princess smiled.

“Oh, ah, of course.” Luna smiled sheepishly.

“Wait, wait, Princess… you’re saying that Sombra is this bird guy’s fault?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Not directly. But in a very real way, yes. You see, SkekUng was banished over fifteen hundred years ago, thus making him one of our oldest foes. Before Sombra, before Tirek, before even Discord. As such it was not SkekUng personally who allowed Sombra to rise to power through his mastery of the dark arts, but rather the knowledge SkekUng left behind…” Celestia said wistfully.

“What, so Sombra found this feller’s diary or somethin’?” asked Applejack with a raised eyebrow.

The two sisters chuckled. Despite the dire situation, they could always count on the Elements to shine a bit of light on the gloom.

“Not exactly. As we said, before his imprisonment, SkekUng was a trusted ally to not only us, but all of ponykind. Including the ponies of old that originally discovered the Crystal Heart deep in the frozen north.” The Princess of the Moon elaborated.

“The original founders of the Crystal Empire?” Cadence asked with a look of wonder.

“Yes. SkekUng was a great friend to them. How could he not be? His fascination with crystals drew him in like a moth to a flame. He came often to study and experiment and while he was there… he taught. He guided. He spread knowledge. Especially to a particular unicorn family.” Celestia explained.

“SkekUng taught them his own brand of crystal magic, claiming it was to make their lives easier, he said he pitied the lives the early crystal ponies had in the harsh tundra. It was thanks to their new found powers over crystals and the earth that allowed them to properly found the Empire, by building the crystal city and opening dozens of crystal mines. It was not long after that these unicorns were decreed by popular demand as the ruling family of the Crystal Empire, royal regents to the throne of Equestria.” Luna said, a faraway look in her eyes as she and her sister spun the tale.

“It was only later that we discovered that it was during this time when SkekUng’s mind and knowledge began to darken. His knowledge was corrupt and was able TO corrupt. Very easily, as we later found out.” Celestia ended mournfully.

“So… these unicorns were Sombra’s ancestors?” asked Fluttershy.

“Correct, my little pony. And it was he, many years later, who used the dark core of what SkekUng had taught his family. The corrupting seed of his knowledge took a long time to flourish… but when it did, it burst forth into a weed of blackest evil.” Celestia replied.

“But did this Skeky guy KNOW his knowhow was all outta whack?” asked Pinkie Pie curiously.

“We have spent many years asking ourselves that same question, Bearer of Laughter. To this day we are not sure if SkekUng was aware of the dangers his knowledge posed and cared not, if perhaps he sought to actively corrupt our little ponies, or if he truly only wished to help.” Luna said wistfully.

“So… if he taught the ancestors of who would become the crystal ponies, is SkekUng some kind of… crystal wizard?” asked Rarity curiously.

“In a way. But SkekUng cannot harness magic for the use of spells himself. He has always had to rely on others to implement his knowledge or use workarounds when dealing with magical research. And he never restricted himself to just crystal experiments. His fields of research spanned far and wide.” Celestia revealed to the elements, although she seemed reluctant to compliment her enemy.

Twilight nodded silently as she stroked her chin with her hoof, her eyes downcast in thought.

“Something wrong Twily?” Shining asked.

“Huh? Oh, er no. I was just hoping this SkekUng turns out to be reasonable… he sounds like a fascinating pon- er, being. And quite the scientist! Ooooo… I bet he has a bunch of magical research from ancient times. I’d love to compare and correlate it with today’s scientific endeavors! So many points of reference… Eeeeee!” She squealed excitedly.

The assembled ponies all laughed at their friend’s antics before Celestia gained their attention with a soft cough.

“I hope time has quelled SkekUng’s rage and stifled his darkness as well Twilight… we can always hope. But come… we must make our way to SkekUng’s prison within the Hollow Shades Woods. We may be able to find him not far from it if we are fortunate.”





After I had exited those infernal woods that had housed my prison, I found myself surrounded by clear countryside and beautiful fields. A welcome change, in my opinion. It was not long before I managed to find a dirt road and shambled down it at a brisk pace, well, brisk for me. It was realistically a less than a mile an hour shuffle. 

In my defense, you try being about two thousand years old and see if moving quickly is an easy task for you. 

I grumbled quietly to myself as I continued eastwards, dictated by the stars and their wisdom. I may not recognize their locations, but I could dictate the directions with them. And that, I decided, was a small victory at least. 

I was hoping I’d be able to find something soon that could hurry me along. A cart, a caravan, anything. I wasn’t picky at this point. Perhaps trains or cars had even been invented in my absence. But until then I was content to just limp my way forward, enjoying the euphoric sense of freedom as my Garthim followed close behind. 

I still couldn’t accept I was free... not fully. It still almost felt like a grand dream. Like I would wake up any second and I’d find myself back in that rancid cave. Continuing to fall apart and rot away into nothing. Surrounded by my failed Garthim, reflecting my own failures… alone again. 

I dearly hoped this would not be the case. So many years lost in that hell… more than three quarters of my current life… gone…

Over the years I had I cursed myself slightly… even if the majority of the blame was on those thrice-damned sisters, I could not hide the shame of my own part in my imprisonment… my part in EVER trusting those winged devils to begin with.

My griffons warned me… so long ago. They told me I didn’t need them… told me I was above their friendship. I should have listened… I shouldn’t have gone to that damned ‘meeting’.

Speaking of my griffons however…

As I continued down the road, my mind wandered to and fro. Coming up with plan upon plan on how to reclaim my kingdom. There were many challenges of honor I could issue, if I could prove I was who I claimed… my Garthim would hopefully help with that. Or I could go about it simply by inspiring the people… the power of love from adoring subjects is a powerful thing. One I admit I used to great effect in the past.

I sighed sadly at that. I missed my proud griffons. I missed them dearly. I missed their company. Their culture. Their personalities. 

They were a proud, loyal and if you earned their respect, friendly race. I was also insanely curious to not only how they had held up since I was… ‘away’, but also on how they had evolved. Were they as I remembered them? Had their social structure changed? …did they even have an empire anymore?

That was a worrying thought.

I sighed once more… so much to worry about, so much to plan. So much to ensure that my griffons had the best future possible… I chuckled to myself. Back in the human world, I had never been the leader type of guy…

But here, hardly two hours out of my prison and already I was worrying about my griffons like a mother hen… an ugly mother hen, admittedly.

I wondered what that truly said about me, as I drifted once more into my memories, remembering that ass of a merchant that was responsible for transporting me to this world to begin with.

How I’d like to get my hands on him…






Another world, another age… again…


Justin and I were enjoying Comic Con immensely. It was one of the best times I honestly think I’ve ever had. The costumes, the food, the people, the videos, the merchandise, it was AMAZING!

And much to my chagrin, Justin had been right. There were A LOT of girls in… pleasing outfits, shall we say? And Justin, being a decent looking guy and dressed as a crowd favorite, was catching quite a few eyes from them. Something he enjoyed rubbing in my face. Bloody bastard, heh.

My own costume did not attract the female persuasion as much as I would have liked. And on top of that, it was hot, heavy, complicated and insanely tiring to carry around. But it was worth it in my opinion because despite not getting any female attention, I was getting DOZENS of compliments for my craftsmanship and original idea. And that was more than enough for me.

Justin and I stayed close together through most of the convention until something caught his eye that he just couldn’t ignore.

“Dude, dude, dude, dude, dude, dude, dude, dude, dude, du-” Justin nearly shouted over and over as we walked through the crowds.

“WHAT?!” I asked a bit harshly.

“Dude, there’s a booth with all kinds of Hellsing shit over there! Oooo! They have the manga, I gotta go see if they got some of the issues I don’t have.” He explained, already fumbling with his wallet.

“Justin, mate, the panel for the new planned dubbed series’ is starting soon.” I said with a slightly exasperated tone.

“I won’t be a minute.” He implored.

“A minute? Really?” I said skeptically.

“Two minutes… fine, five minutes. Five minutes tops. I PROMISE!” he pleaded.

“Fine, just go!” I relented.

“Yosh!” he cried.

I chuckled to myself as he practically skipped along. As he went about his business I looked about at the different stalls and booths, selling nearly everything you could imagine.

“Ah… what have we here…” I heard a sly voice from behind me.

I turned around and saw a small booth carrying a huge amount of paraphernalia from dozens of different series. There was Luffy’s straw hat, Akatsuki robes, dozens of fantasy swords and sci-fi guns, Harry Potter’s wand, Finn’s bear hat, Gandalf’s staff, some N7 commando armor, a pair of Sais, some steampunk goggles, I even saw the Eleventh Doctor’s sonic screwdriver, along with so much more.

Manning the booth was a small, cheerful looking man in dark clothes. He was short and… huh… I… can’t really remember what he looked like… odd. Ah well. What really mattered wasn’t his looks… but his damnable products.

“Well, well… the mighty General of the Skeksis… an honor. An honor to be sure.” He said as he bowed slightly.

I couldn’t help but grin at the funny little man who not only knew what I was supposed to be, but was also into it enough to act the part. I laughed softly and decided to play along. I placed one hand on my costume’s hip and used my other hand and unseen prop tool to nod my bird-like head in a satisfied manner.

“Ah! But alas! It seems the great SkekUng is without a weapon! That can’t be allowed.” He said as he disappeared behind his stall and reappeared not a moment latter.

And he carried one of the coolest swords, I had ever seen.

It was a perfect replica of one of the ‘Trial by Stone’ dueling swords that the Skeksis used in the movie. It was nearly as tall as me and the blade wicked, curved and incredibly detailed. I fell in love with it right then and there.









“Surely the General must have his weapon to defend his honor.” The peddler smiled. 

“Heh, sorry dude. I don’t have much money on me. Definitely not enough to buy a beauty like that.” I said, nearly poking my head out of the costume.

“Well that is a pity… but… why not just hold it? Just for a moment? And if it suits you as much as I think it will… well, I’m sure we could come to SOME sort of deal.” He said with a chuckle.

I had to admit, the guy had a convincing air about him and he was right. There was no harm in holding it… and it went with the costume SO perfectly!

“Well… yeah, I guess.” I said as I eagerly grasped the long hilt of the sword.

I was so entranced… I very nearly missed the smirk of victory on the trader’s face.

“Enjoy yourself, my good buzzard. Try to have fun, yeah?” he asked.

And it was at that moment my vision blurred and I felt more pain than I had ever felt before. I felt myself stumble, and fall… I fell… so hard, farther than I had ever fallen before and- HALT!

…wait, what?





“HALT!” 

The dual-voiced order carried through the air and sliced through my memories with the painful edge of a dull razor. At once I froze in my tracks, my eyes wide and my hands trembling. Not because of the order itself… but because of the two voices that had ushered it into the world. 

I knew those voices.

My body stiffened, my heart clenched in my chest, my blood froze in my veins… and hatred began filling every inch of my body. My head snapped upwards and there I saw them… clear as crystal, bold as brass… my hated betrayers and jailors… the Two Royal Sisters. 

I glowered at the two ponies in the air before me, fury rising in my soul and bile rising in my throat. They fluttered in the air for a brief moment, high above my reach, before descending gracefully and landing only a few feet away from me.

As they landed I noticed that there was another with them… one about Luna’s height and with a coat so pink it was on the verge of hurting my eyes. I must have been so caught up with the shock and irritation of seeing the ones who ruined my life that I didn’t notice her before now. But I would have been a fool to miss her now, blatantly sporting the obvious wing and horn combo.

Another Alicorn? After all these years? Interesting… and very bad news for me.

I had studied Alicorns, what little of them there were to study in my time. 

Despite the claims of the creatures of this world, they are not deities. Immortal, yes. Intelligent, oh yes. Powerful, without question. But they are NOT gods. They are killable, they are fallible and they are far from perfect. I learned that firsthand many years ago. 

Although I grudgingly admit demigod is perhaps an appropriate classification. You see why I was not eager for another one as an enemy?

We stared at one another for what felt like hours, each one of us analyzing the other, each one of us trying to determine what to do in this situation we now found ourselves in.

I looked at them, my eyes blazing and fangs bared. I raised my hand alerting my Garthim behind me to prepare. Which it did by beginning to snap it’s crab claw threateningly and letting forth a menacing rumble from deep within it’s carapace.

I saw the Alicorns eye my Garthim with care, a look of familiarity passing over the guardians of the sun and moon. I snarled as I took a closer look at them.

They hadn’t aged at all. Celestia and Luna. Ever since that horrible day… all those years ago… and not a year of it upon their faces. How must I have looked to them, I wonder? Old, withered, decayed and decrepit… an old buzzard with hardly any life in his bones. 

And they did this to me! They did this, and they have the nerve to appear before me… here, now, looking like that! Mocking me with their naturally ageless bodies! 

Damn them… damn them both!

“Luna, Celestia… ” I snarled savagely, my fury not accurately conveyed even a third by my tone.

I could feel the webbed quills on my back rise in anger, the same reflex as a cobra spreading its hood in deadly warning. My tail began thrashing slowly, thumping the ground enough to nearly crack the earth below me. My arms were spread wide in an aggressive, claw-like gesture and my beak creaked open as I growled through my fangs. I was ready to strike… I WANTED to strike.

They were here… these two horrid creatures that had cost me everything. 

Sooner than expected as well… and I worried slightly at that. I was hoping I’d have more time. But if the universe decreed that they should die this night instead of the near future, who was I to disagree?

“SkekUng… time has not been kind to you.” Celestia said with a stoic face and strong demeanor.

I hissed in resentment. How dare she be so calm… so nonchalant? After what she did… after what she said… after what she put me through! I looked at Luna and saw that she at least had the dignity to look a bit unsure of herself. Perhaps even a bit concerned… for me? No, surely not. Concerned for nothing more than her sister and the safety of her land… blasted bitches, the both of them!

“Well, forgive me, oh princesses for my… unsightly appearance. It is difficult to look your best when you’re chained below a mountain for fifteen hundred years. A living hell like no other!” I hissed out.

A brief look of uncertainty passed over the white Alicorn’s features before being replaced with her former, strong demeanor. Interesting… I decided to press on.

“Without food… water… light… comfort… companionship! Forced to watch my clothes decay, my body rot and my mind slowly slip into madness! Starving every day to the point of insanity… I nearly, VERY nearly wished for death, oh so many times. And you… YOU did this to me!” I hissed again as I slowly began to limp around them, always facing them, always keeping my eyes on them.

They matched my maneuvers and slowly, we began to circle one another and I realized in the back of my mind that we were each trying to figure out which of us was the predator… and which the prey. 

My Garthim matched my movements perfectly. It recognized danger to it’s master and was preparing to strike, it’s eyes never once leaving the Alicorns, tracing their movements with precision. Once more, as I had done many times over the years, I praised myself on such marvelous creations.

“You did this to yourself, SkekUng. Did you think we would turn a blind eye to what you were doing? Your sick experiments? Your unnatural magic? Your horrid, twisted means of which you used to achieve your bastard immortality?” Celestia questioned and I could see here wings twitching and nostrils flaring.

She was mad… very good. Mad ponies do not think clearly, mad ponies make mistakes. I however, was used to being mad and operating in rage… all I had to do was make sure my anger was directed at something that I could hurt.

“I thought that since we were friends, after all I had helped you achieve, you would understand. At least TRY to understand! I did nothing that harmed you or your pathetic ponies. What I was doing was within my own borders. Within my OWN empire! You had no right to object or interfere!” I spat. Literally spat. Globs of spittle landed not too far from the royal sister’s hooves.

“No right?! What you were doing was unnatural! Evil! It went against the laws of nature itself! The rules of magic! Your gruesome construct behind you is proof of that! It was you who had no right!” Celestia nearly screamed.

“And is that why you did it? Called me to a ‘private meeting’? Lied to me? Betrayed me? Hurt me, wounded me and locked me away from my lands and subjects? You are nothing more than hypocrites! Where do you think all the aid I gave you came from? From my ‘sick and twisted’ experiments! Without them where would you be?” I countered in hate.

“If we had known, we never would have accepted!” Celestia fumed.

“If you had not accepted, you would be DEAD!” I snapped cruelly.

“ENOUGH!”

It was the pink one who spoke now, and I must say I was impressed. I did not expect one so small could yell so loudly. All eyes turned to her and she looked sheepish for a brief second before returning to her royal façade.

“I mean, this arguing is only leading us in circles… kind of like this little dance we’re doing.” The pink one said slowly, evenly.

I raised an eye-ridge at her curiously and barked out a laugh.

“And you are?”

“Princess Mi Amore Cadenza. Princess of Love and ruler of the Crystal Empire.” She replied with a curt bow of her head.

My eyes widened at that. The Crystal Empire? The best of my side projects? It was still around? It was still being cared for? The Crystal Ponies were safe? …well, that was good news at least.

“The Crystal Empire? You? Hmmm… figures. You Alicorns always did have to have your hooves in ruling everything… tell me, are you even descended from the House of Nightfall?” I asked, pointing a gnarled finger at her.

“No… a-at least, not exactly.” She said with a slight stammer.

“Not exactly?” I asked. 

Who was this foolish mare that was running one of my greatest achievements? Was she caring for the crystal ponies? Did she know of the true power and the danger of the Crystal Heart? What was this nonsense?

“Who are you then? Who are you to rule the city I left in the care of Umbra Nightfall? Are you at least taking good care of it? I shan’t have my hard work go down the drain!” I said sternly to her, not overly mean mind you, but I was very protective about my work.

“You’re hard work?” she asked, confused.

I blinked slowly before turning my gaze back towards the Two Sisters. My hate returning and set ablaze anew.

“You didn’t tell her… you probably haven’t told ANYONE… have you? To what lengths have you gone, Princesses, to hide me from history? Are there ANY that remember my actions in the north? Any that remember my contributions to the world?” I hissed the question out like poison.

The pink Alicorn look at her two elders with a quizzical expression. I watched in grim confirmation as they ignored her.

“Enough… we are getting off track. SkekUng, former Emperor of the Griffons. You have escaped from your imprisonment, but we have not come to reseal you… we have come to ask something of you.” Celestia said, her face still the stern one of a determined leader.

I bared my fangs once more at the ‘former emperor’ remark. I had known Celestia long enough to know that had been a hidden jab at my pride.

“Ask something of me? ASK something of ME?! After what you did, after what you said, after your BETRAYAL… WHAT, pray tell, do you think I would say to you?” I frowned deeply, my wrinkled visage adding to my glaring effect.

“SkekUng, you may hate us, but we truly believed what we did at the time was for the best. For our ponies and for your griffons… perhaps we were wrong, but what is past is passed… as far as we are concerned you have served your time… so please. There is no more need for hate.” Luna said slowly. 

Her voice was full of concern and her eyes filled with compassion. I imagined tearing out her throat and devouring her eyes.

“We can be friends again. We… I would like that. You can return to your griffons, perhaps not as ruler but… there is still so much you can teach the world. In better ways. Please… please do not hate us.” Luna said slowly and evenly, obviously trying to keep her own emotions under control.

I would admire her for that. If I didn’t hate her SO MUCH.

“How dare you… how DARE you?! You think that after all this time we can still be friends? We can just put the past aside as if nothing happened?!” I hissed as my eyes snapped wide, and I lunged forward in a mad dash of speed, my withered yet powerful hands clawing wildly at the air ahead of me.

The royal ponies backed away quickly, none apparently were eager to test how my strength had fared these many centuries.

Smart move.

“And you dare… DARE dictate terms to me?! After what you did? You BETRAYED me Luna! You and your vile sister both! I did NOTHING wrong to you or your ponies! All I did was continue to live! To find new paths of power! To help my griffons! If what I did went against magic and nature then let magic and nature themselves judge me! Punish me! Let the world itself swallow me whole! But you are not the world! You are not her will nor her judgment! You are not gods! You had no right… and now you DARE… DARE offer me the friendship YOU threw away, laced with thinly veiled THREATS?!”

I swiped at them again, and again they quickly fled backwards, this time with their horns alight.

“SkekUng, stop this!” Luna pleaded. She was worried, good. Neither of them expected me to still be this quick on my feet.

“HATE! HATE FOREVER!” I cried as I lunged once more, quicker than before and this time managed to snag one of them. To my great pleasure it was Celestia I had managed to grab firmly by the back of the neck and without a seconds hesitation I began to squeeze tightly, relishing her shouts and yelps of pain as she flailed in my grip.

Her hooves flailed slightly as I slowly lifted her off the ground. I grinned as I discovered my thin, frail arm sill possessed more strength then she did in her entire body. Her horn was alight in a mad attempt to form a means to escape, but the world of pain I was slowly introducing her to was more than enough to distract her mind from forming a proper spell. 

Just a bit more… just a bit more and… SNAP!

“Auntie!” the pink one, Cadenza, called.

Auntie? Interesting… I filed that little piece of information away for later. However my thirst for this wench’s immortal blood would not be satisfied this day, unfortunately.

“Sister!” Luna cried as she fired a bolt magical lightning at my offending hand. 

It hit soundly and I hissed in pain as I was forced to withdraw my limb, nursing my shocked hand as it slowly grew less numb. I looked it over as steam slowly rose from my flesh. 

I loved my body. I truly did. Withered and weak it may have been at the moment, but if I were any other creature, a creature without a resistance to these ponies foul magic, my hand would be gone then and there.

I had little time to nurse my wound however. Another bolt of magic destroyed a patch of earth not far from where I was standing, and this time it was I who was forced to back away.

My Garthim acted at once. The second I had been it hit, it had exited it’s ‘stand-by mode’ and entered it’s ‘destroy offenders’ mode. It shambled forward, claws raised and swing violently. I watched in amusement as the pink one fired a ray of energy at my deadly Garthim. It connected with it’s shell and caused it to stagger slightly but other than that it hardly had any affect at all.

The Garthim raised it’s giant claw once more and attempted to sprint forward and crush them… but I had other ideas.

“Enough!” I cried, raising my hand.

My Garthim stopped at once, lowering it’s arms as it slowly shuffled backwards and stood once more at my side.

They would be punished one day… but not today. Deadly as it was, only one of my mighty Garthim was no match for THREE Alicorns. It was hardly a match for ONE Alicorn. It had served me well so far, and I still had use for it. As such I had no desire to see it atomized by the combined magical might of three demigods.

I watched as Celestia composed herself, coughing violently and rubbing her now bruised throat with a tender hoof as her sister and apparent niece tried to comfort her.

I snarled as I turned to leave as fast as I was able, which unfortunately wasn’t very fast now that I had used up a great deal of my limited stamina in this little scuffle.

“SkekUng! Halt! We ask you again… please, forgo this anger you have. We can live in Harmony again.” Luna called again.

I stopped mid-step before looking over my shoulder. I was still enraged beyond belief, but I knew I could not win this day. Not until I had my griffons and my youth back… I looked at my loyal creation already beginning to follow me. And more Garthim. A LOT more Garthim.

“You betrayed me, Luna. YOU betrayed ME. Not the other way around, so stop acting like the victims. My experiments, my sciences, ‘sick and twisted’ as it they be… has helped this world more than you care to admit. And it has surely helped ME a hell of a lot! My only crime is living, Princess… if you would damn me for that, then you are the monsters! Not I!” I cried before once more shambling forward.

“Is that your final answer?” asked Celestia, I could not see it on her face at the time… but I swear I heard victory in her condescending voice.

I did not reply. I just kept walking. They would get theirs. But not today.

“So be it. NOW!”

I blinked in surprise when the air shimmered around me and a bright flash illuminated the area. I narrowed my eyes as I saw I was now surrounded by no less than fifteen more ponies. I growled as I saw the majority of them were royal guards… well played Princess. Offer peace with one hand, ready a weapon with the other. It seemed that little lesson I taught them so long ago was still fresh in their minds.

I quickly took in my opponents. Eight royal guards, all of them pegasi, dressed in a different model of armor than I was used to seeing. Hmmm… have they advanced significantly during my imprisonment? I saw the spears strapped to their sides in a sophisticated harness in a lance-like fashion. Good metalwork, but still limited melee weapons. Advanced, yes… but not by much.

One that stood out amongst their number however. A unicorn, male, and was dressed in a light violet and blue armor. Hmph… looked more fanciful than practical. I hated that. If you make something pretty, you should also make it functional if it’s meant to be used.

It was the final six however, that I noticed the most. They stood out like stars amongst they black of the night sky and these six sent alarm bells sounding loudly in my head for some reason. A reason I’d find out soon enough.

These six were mares, each one as different as day and night from one another.

Two were earth ponies, one orange and one pink. The orange one had a harsh look on her features and wore, to my amusement, a Stetson. The one in pink had a mane that reminded me of cotton candy, and her face seemed to be etched with a permanent smile. 

There was unicorn as white as snow. She seemed refined and elegant, with a mane that rivaled even that of the celestial sisters. On her features was a look as if she was too good to be here.

Two more were pegasi, one yellow and one with quite an interesting prismatic mane. The yellow one was, quite frankly, adorable and seemed to wish to be anywhere else but here. The blue however seemed more than happy to be here, scratching the ground with a battle-ready look.

The final one nearly took my breath away, however. No not that way. In the way as I literally couldn’t believe what I saw.

Tall, confident, purple, with a twin-streaked mane… and a DISTINCT wing and horn combo… AGAIN.

ANOTHER Alicorn?! Dear god above, they were somehow breeding…

I will not deny, I was worried. Insanely so. But I still had my pride… as well as a trick or two up my thread-bare sleeve. 

“And what have we here Celestia? Attack dogs? I thought you were better than that.” I cawed loudly.

“Did… did you just?! How DARE you, sir! I am a lady. Not some mutt.” The white unicorn said with an elegant flip of her mane.

“Uh, Rares. It’s a figure a’ speech.” The orange earth pony attempted to whisper.

“I know that! But it’s the principle of the thing! I mean really. Calling ponies as fabulous as us dogs! Why, I’ve never been so insulted!” The unicorn continued to whine.

“Rarity, focus.” The purple Alicorn cried.

I could only raise an eye-ridge at this. Who were these fools? Surely Celestia would not mingle them with her guard and send them at me without good reason… the said reason escaping me completely however.

“SkekUng, we give you this one final chance… please surrender.” Celestia spoke loudly, her voice carrying concern and compassion for the first time that night.

“To Tartarus with you and your chances, bitch.” I snapped.

Might have been a mistake on my part, that.

“How dare you?! Stallions, CHARGE!” the unicorn male cried out in outrage as he charged up a spell and ran forward, flanked by several of the guard ponies.

Two guards rushed me, their holstered spears aimed for my gut. I scoffed and readied myself, with precision and timing I easily caught the spears by their shafts, snapping the feeble things with a flick of my wrist before sending the guards flying by spinning around and hitting them in the face with my powerful tail.

This apparently did not sit well with the one in fancy armor, a captain of some sort perhaps? Regardless with a flash of magic he appeared before me and fired a beam of mana strait into my chest. Gritting my fangs in pain I endured the attack and quickly sprinted towards the fool. He apparently did not expect this as he could only gape at me before I reared my clawed foot back and let forth a mighty kick, punting the guard captain square in the gut and sending him skidding back, desperately trying to gulp down air.

“Garthim! Attack!” I cried loudly.

I hadn’t really needed to order it to do so, as it had already charged into the thick of it, dealing with the majority of the guards quite easily. It’s large claw smashed into them like a sledgehammer, battering and denting their armor. It’s clawed hand was also put to work as it snatched the ones it had just finished bashing like living nails and drove them further into the ground. All the while their pathetic hoof punches and spear strikes didn’t even leave the phantom of a scratch on it’s armored hide.

I sneered at the three princesses, my expression clearly asking ‘Is this the best you can do?’

I was confused however as I saw the determined looks on Luna and the pink one, Cadenza, and the confident smirk of victory on Celestia. What was this? How could they be so sure of themselves? And what were they looking at- the mares!

I cursed myself for forgetting the six, supposedly unsuspecting mares and looked over quickly. What I saw left me speechless in a mixture of fear and awe.

The six mares were levitating in the air, an aura of incredible power now radiating off them like a thousand suns. I took a step back in unabashed fear. What was this? I had no idea. Before my very eyes they began to change… no… that word would be insufficient, near insulting to what they were doing... 

They began to evolve.

Before my eyes the mares seemed to grow, as well as becoming adorned with larger and more powerful features. The wings of the pegasi and Alicorn grew, as did the horns of said Alicorn and her unicorn ally. Their manes became longer, larger and streaked with and assortment of beautiful colors. And their hooves became adorned with odd symbols that I could not make out from my current location.

At once their eyes shone with arcane might I had never seen the like of before and I could only stare as a huge… well, RAINBOW shot forth from their collective energy like judgement from some flamboyant deity.

It shot forth into the night sky with such speed and such brightness, for a moment it looked as if day had come to the area. With an even greater descending speed and the sound of air being sliced apart, the rainbow came barreling down… on me!

I shouted in surprise and horror as I felt the power wash over me.

This… energy… it was… unique, holy and powerful enough to be described as GODLY. And yet… it also felt… familiar? Yes… familiar. But how-

These thoughts were pushed from my mind however as terror took root. What was this? What were they doing? What would this rainbow do to me?!

I shielded my head in worry with my arms, and waited for whatever fate that lay in store for me as the colors completely engulfed my body…



















Only for nothing to happen. 

As fast as it had come the rainbow magic vanished, dissipating into the night air so quickly and so quietly, it was as if it had never been. 

I blinked slowly before looking up once more, analyzing my form with a careful eye. I was expecting some new growth, or shackle… something! But there was nothing… nothing about me had changed at all. I was not sure to be relieved or incredibly disappointing. 

Regardless, I was still the same old buzzard, in the same old body, in the same old robes. Huh.

I looked up and saw all the ponies gathered, save the guards who were still being occupied by my Garthim, look at me with faces of the utmost shock.

The three princess stared at me as if I had grown another head, or a third pair of arms, I already possessed a second pair, but they had atrophied with age.

The six ‘super ponies’ that had actually triggered the weapon were in a similar state of disbelief. So much so that their looks of astonishment didn’t change a single iota as a wave of energy engulfed each of them one by one and they resumed their normal appearances.

Whatever that was… it had failed. I had… won? I had won! Some kind of super magic weapon with power untold and I won! 

I did what any other would do in that situation. I gloated.

“Bah ha ha! Is this the best you have to send after me Celestia? Spare me these cheap theatrics and come for me yourse- agggh!” I started, only to be cut off as a whole new flash of pain hit me.

During my ranting, a single pony had broken away from her shock, the rainbow mare, and had tackled me with the force of a cannonball. The blow very nearly toppled me over, and it stung my chest something awful. I was however, still standing and I would ensure this pest would curse that fact.

With a whole new rush of rage I thrust my arm out, snagging the little warrior by one of her forelegs. Tightening my grip nearly enough to snap her limb, I swung heavily sending her up and over my head and sailing head first into the ground. She shuffled to her hooves, eyes unfocused and stumbling over each step.

“You… you a-ain’t so tough! C-come on! We don’t need t-the Rainbow! Put ‘em up!” she cried as she began jabbing her hooves into the empty air to my left.

I sneered as I grabbed the prismatic peon and with a great thrust, took aim and lobbed her at her compatriots. Most of them scattered as the pony-bullet flew forward, except for one who apparently wasn’t quite quick enough; the cowgirl pony.

“No, no, no-” the orange mare shouted before the two crashed together in a jumbled heap.

“Little fools.” I snarled.

“ENOUGH!” I heard Luna’s booming voice cry.

My head snapped over to the Alicorns, the purple one now amongst them. The royals had so far stayed out of the conflict, perhaps hoping their guards and secret weapon could stand up to me on their own.

I watched in mute horror as all four Alicorns began gathering magical power… and I saw their target.

“No!” I cried.

Too late.

The demigods fired as one, the incredible magical blast shooting forward, punching a gaping hole strait through my beloved Garthim like a white-hot knife through butter. I watched as dust and shards of hard flesh fell from the wound, and the eyes of my construct dimmed before ceasing their usual, beautiful glow. A sound similar to that of shuffling sand filled the air and I watched my Garthim fall apart into pieces, it’s shining black shell fading into a dull grey. It’s empty husk now nothing more than the stone from which I had carved it.

Damnation… that one had served me well and without my Garthim I had no hope of fighting these ponies to even a standstill. I would eventually tire. These old bones only had so much left to give already…

I needed a way out. I needed a bargaining chip. I needed…

Then I saw her. I saw the butter yellow pegasus. 

The one that had arrived with the princess and seemed to be part of the newfound weapon… she was apart from the others now… protected by a measly three guards who had recovered from their thrashing… I knew what I needed.

I needed a hostage.

I lunged out and grabbed a nearby guard by the back of the throat, spinning him around and tossing him with as much strength as I could muster at Celestia. Her eyes widened as she used her magic to catch the guard and set him down gently, but my ploy had worked. Two of the guards that had been with the yellow Pegasus had raced over to protect their princess.

I saw my opening.

With the last burst of speed I knew I’d be able to manage I dashed forward, knocking the one remaining guard away with a quick swipe of my arm in the process.

My target ‘eeped’ when she realized I was after her and attempted to take off, fortunately she did not appear to be the quickest flyer and I easily snatched her out of the air. I wrapped my limbs around her, one arm binding her forelimbs to her sides, while at the same time hugging her closely to my chest, locking her wings down and rendering them useless. My other arm was folded carefully, my hand wrapped firmly around her throat. Not enough to hurt her, not yet. But enough that with the simplest amount of pressure, or the quickest of gestures, I could easily snap her neck like a twig in the breeze.

I grinned with twisted pleasure as I saw the looks of horror, rage and worry on the ponies’ faces. Oh, especially the princesses. Oh yes… the look of shock that their perfect little plan didn’t work… I shall cherish it always.

“Well now… isn’t this a delightful change in circumstances?” I said slowly, calmly, in such a way that was so unlike me that it truly did concern the Alicorns present.

“Release her SkekUng! This fight is between us! Your quarrel is with US!” Celestia ordered, a hoof stamping the ground, cracking the earth beneath her.

“Oh Celestia, always the hypocrite. You demand mercy when you show none. You expect a fair fight when your entire history is full of ambushes and cheap tricks. My quarrel is with you, yes. And your pawns here when you set them on me. No, I do NOT think I will release this lovely young mare. But I might… consider it. If certain demands are met…” I hissed in a condescending manner as I backed away slowly, getting every single pony present in my field of view.

I will not lie. I was enjoying myself immensely. They deserved this.

“What do you want, SkekUng?” asked Luna, although she probably had a fair guess. She and her sister were no strangers to war, after all.

“I demand a chariot. One of those lovely royal chariots you no doubt used to transport your non-flying pawns here. And if I’m getting one of those, I’ll need two good drones to fly it for me.” I grinned maliciously.

I scanned the guards and pointed to two strong looking pegasi.

“Them. Those two shall do. Order them over here. No tricks, no attempts to free the mare, no chance to issue secret orders. Then order two more to fetch a chariot from wherever it is you’ve stashed them.” I said, my beak forming a snarl. I would not allow them to get the better of me… not this time.

“We cannot do that SkekUng… we know the first place you’ll go and we will not allow it.” Celestia said with narrowed eyes and determined look.

“Then this one dies… after a bit of pain.” I said as if it were the simplest thing in the world.

I slowly began to tighten my hand around the butter yellow pegasus’ neck, listening carefully for any creak of bone. Despite my bravado, I didn’t want her dead if it was avoidable. I was NOT a monster, although I’d be more than happy to allow myself to be painted as such if it meant I won in the end.

I must admit, I was unnerved as she gasped and choked in pain as I slowly cut off her oxygen supply. Every pained sound filled my heart with regret and it took every bit of my resolve to not release her, to not let her go… but I would not be defeated. I would take back what was mine.

I watched as Celestia’s stoic face slowly melted into that of worry and fear.

I grinned outwardly, inwardly cursing at what I would now have to do, before clamping my hand down sharply in one swift movement, nearly crushing the mare’s throat completely. 

She let out a shrill, near noiseless scream and kicked her rear legs in a fruitless attempt to free herself. I could see the strange mares that had fired that rainbow abomination, now looking at me with such hate and disgust, I was surprised they did not attack me then and there. I chuckled as I saw that the blue mare with the rainbow mane was actively trying to attack me, but was being held down by two royal guards.

“One more chance Celestia… now then… let’s see here…” I released my grip on the pegasus’ neck and was about to repeat my crushing routine when Celestia snapped.

“Stop! …very well SkekUng… you win. Guards.” She looked at the two pegasi I had singled out.

The two nodded, understanding the instruction and marched over to me, neither one very happy apparently. But like good soldiers they kept their muzzles shut and stood by me, clear in my sight. 

“Very good… and the chariot?” I asked, my hand slowly wrapping around the mare’s neck once more.

“Make it so.” Celestia said, eyeing two more guards.

As the two guards nodded and took off towards some far off hills, the raiser of the sun set her gaze on me once more, a look of hurt and indignation clear on her features.

“You won’t get away with this SkekUng. What do you hope to achieve? To return to your griffons? They do not even remember you. To fight us? To avenge yourself against us? We have grown strong in your absence, monster… our nation is mighty and prosperous. What hope do you have? Surrender, please. Even now it is not too late.” Celestia ordered, her voice strong, but there was no hiding that look of worry in her eyes.

I glared back at her and the rest of the ponies, a grunt escaping my beak before I began to chuckle lowly.

“Hope? You speak to me of hope, wench? I know of hope… better than any other. It was hope that kept me alive and sane, down in the dark cell you left me in. It was hope that allowed me to forge a future for my proud griffons, all those years ago. And it is hope that assures me, I SHALL have justice. What hope Celestia? Perhaps none more than a fool’s hope. But you know… even that is enough.” I smiled evilly at her.

I saw the doubt flash across her and her sister’s features for a brief moment and I knew then, that I had struck a nerve. That they had considered my words and found them true. They were worried now. Truly worried… good. Very good indeed.

Not a moment later, the two guards came over the hills, dragging the golden chariot I had demanded. I eyed it carefully as it came near, trying to discern any oddities or possible traps that may have been placed. 

I saw none.

I nodded as I then looked at the Pegasus guards I had selected and jerked my head forward.

They took my meaning and switched out with their compatriots, helping them secure themselves to the reins of the vehicle before returning to their royal’s side.

I shambled forward, careful to keep watch over the princesses and their attack dogs as I hoisted myself into the chariot.

I looked over to the pegasi that would serve as my horsepower, pun not intended.

“Now then boys… word of warning. You go where I tell you. If you don’t, or if you get any funny ideas, like say… drop me out of the sky, or attempt to deliver me to an Equestrian outpost or prison… well, need I remind you I have one of your own?” I threatened lowly, so only they could hear.

They said nothing but their stiffening stances told me they understood.

“Farewell then Celestia… see you soon.” I called.

“Wait! What about Fluttershy?!” the rainbow one cried.

Fluttershy? What a nice name. I would remember it.

“She will be coming with me. I shall return her soon, I promise. Whether alive or dead, whole or in pieces… well… that’s entirely up to you… and if you are foolish enough to attempt to follow… remember! All it takes is a tiny bit of pressure.” I snarled as I squeezed the throat of my captive once more.

“Enough SkekUng… we understand.” Luna conceded.

“Good.” I looked over to the smoking remains of my poor Garthim. It would be avenged.

“Expect more of my soldiers, your majesties… soon.” I smiled to myself as I held the pegasus close, the two guards rising high into the cool night sky.

“Where to, monster?” barked out one of the royal guards.

“You know where fool… onwards to Stratorus… onward to my Empire!” I cackled.