Chapter 1: Awakening(rewritten)

CHAPTER 1: AWAKENING

By the edge of the small town of Ponyville, the Everfree Forest is located. Nopony dares to enter the forest, except for a whimsical rhyming zebra who lives there or the occasional curious colt or filly.

Rumours have it that the forest houses all sorts of danger. From manticores to hydras and timberwolves, supported by the fact that- many who have entered this forest have never been heard from again. This forest is also wild, unlike the rest of Equestria which was tamed by its multicoloured equine residents.

Deep within this forsaken forest is the abandoned castle of the Alicorn Sisters. In this once glorious castle the Elements of Harmony have made their resting place, set on a pedestal in the middle of the throne room. But this is not the focus of our story.

If you go deeper in this castle, there are other artifacts that have withstood against the test of time. Among these is a statue of a bipedal creature, his face, chiseled in a mask of rage and agony.

But it is no mere statue. His name is Nathanael Arroyo Garcia. He was once a great warrior during the Great War waged on Terra.

His skills with the blade were graceful, his strength was not of the average man. His power was more than a match for the Royal Sisters themselves. But this wasn't his greatest weapon, he was dauntless. He would dive through situations no sane man would dare, his courage raised the moral of his soldiers as he lead them to victory.

He was both celebrated and despised by the ponies and other races alike.

But one day he failed. Disheartened by his inability to save the Crystal Empire and Princess Luna's fall to darkness he began to break. Followed by the massacre of his men and a town. The final push was the death of his beloved, Clover.

Enraged, he unleashed his wrath against his aggressors- the Changelings. His flames burned them and many others fell by his blade, both innocent and the guilty. Effectively wiping out the changelings from the face of Terra... Or so he thought.

He became what he swore to destroy, a monster. Princess Celestia, fearful of Nathan and the damage he could do to Equestria, once more wielded the Elements of Harmony and imprisoned him in stone.

And up to this day- his fate sealed in stone- he was placed in the Castle of The Two Sisters. Now fate is cruel to those who get caught in its gears. But tonight, Nathan is given not just a second shot at life but a third attempt at it.

------POV: NATHAN-----
*Sigh*.Damn I ran out of songs...

How long has it been? I never bothered counting actually...

It's hard being stuck in stone, my nose is itchy, my neck is sore and I think I pissed my pants a long time ago! At least I have a roof over my head, dissy and Jared have to deal with bird shit in the canterlot gardens. Did I mention I was stuck in stone?

Speaking of Mr. De Lancie, he comes once in a while for a visit. At least I managed to keep (some of) my sanity intact. Yeah I like that guy but he wants me to help him take over Equestria. Over my dead body. I'd rather lock myself in Tartarus. I may be on not so good terms with Celly, but I wouldn't doom a country.

Well I wasn't imprisoned because Celly is racist (speciest) nor because I ate her cake (maybe a nibble). Tia used the 'Friendship orbital Rainbow Cannon' on me.... Well.. Because it was my fault. I won't go into detail... Oh wait! Only Tia did it...

Oh! Where are my manners my name is Nathaniel A. Garcia, first Captain of the guard, Wrath Incarnate, Spirit of Courage, The Living Flame, yadda yadda blah blah etc. etc. But titles aren't worth a fuck right now.

I still can't get over the fact that...

Celly never visited me in a thousand years! Sure I fucked up... But still! Yeah she rules a country and all that... But it wouldn't hurt to visit.

My train of thought was interrupted by a malevolent chuckle that echoed around the room. "Oh hello there my good o'l friend Nathan." Discord appeared in his astral form wearing a suit, a fedora and a candy cane(size of a walking stick mind you) in his lion paw. "Why don't you come out for a chat?" I'm actually very grateful, without Discord I might have gone bananas

Well at least he remembers. I focused and my spirit slowly left my body, my astral form then manifested in front of Discord's. I am 5ft. 9" tall with a athletic build, I was wearing a white sando paired with brown pants with too many zippers and pockets, black flip flops and a pair of shades.

"Please leave your coat and hat on the rack." Sometimes I go along with Discord's randomness, it's fun to mess with people. Discord promptly threw his hat and coat in front of me which materialized into a table!?! "How did you do that?" He's in astral form he shouldn't be able to use magic!

"You underestimate the power of the dark side. Mwahahahahaha!" Horrible reference, horrible timing, shoot me for fuck's sake. "Oh I don't want to shoot you! You are a very chaotic and interesting, individual it would be a shame." How did he... "'Read my mind'? I can't read minds. Well I read the chapter when it was first published . It was bit fast paced." .....Huh? He was holding his chin like he was in thought as he talked. "This chapter is rewritten you know." Uhhh...

The only response I could think of... "Eh?" Toss that topic out of the window. Now. "Discord then conjured a board with 'TOPIC' written on it, he then threw it away. Brain. Hurts. I thought I learned all of Discord's 'tricks'. "So how's Jared?" I asked in an attempt to change the subject.

"Oh you know the usual, he's been talking about revenge, revenge and more revenge against Tia, Lulu and you. He's amusing sometimes though, whenever I talk to him telepathically he calls it mind rape." We laughed at that, that's priceless! "So what are you planning?" He inquired.

"My plan?" Plan... To be honest... I have no idea. "Yeah! When I get out, I'm gonna mix things up a little." I lied. Well what should I say?

"Ooooh pray tell." He then wore 3d glasses and grabbed a bucket of popcorn. He then threw away the popcorn and lifted his glasses and smiled at me. "Ahhhhh... But you don't have one. Why won't you join in, in my... Little shedang." He's good at these kind of games...

"A walking lighter, a guy with a fancy gauntlet and a failed mad lab creation, a very tempting offer indeed, lemme think about it... Nah! Discord merely chuckled in amusement and I continued "Pray tell, who are you recruiting next? The Grinch? Killer bunnies? The infernal she/he thing gay demon Justin Beiber?"

We both then laughed, me and discord are actually good friends even if we occasionally fight for the fate of Equestria, it's just.... business .

"Oh HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! that is why you are my favorite human! It's such a shame you're a goody two shoes." Discord said while wiping a tear from his eye "You have a bone to pick with Celestia, you were loyal to her, where did it bring you." He spread out his arms as he talked.
"Let's face it, you gained nothing by being nice. You were merely swept under the rug after your glorious mistake." He said in a dramatic tone, as he held his claw to his chest and extended his paw in the air. And he started crying fake tears.

"......." Discord, he always hits below the belt. At least I'm not adopted.

He then wiped his eyes with a handkerchief. "But we have power! These ponies are nothing but toys that we can play with." I was taken back the sudden change of Discord's tone, his tone grew dark as he said these words. Discord doesn't act like this... Usually...

I still said nothing so he continued. "We can rule this world if we want to! We can shape it to our desires! After all chaos, destruction and power go together." He then touched my body's shoulder after saying this. *sigh* I am really grateful for armour enchantments.

"Your specialty is manipulation discord but... I'm not a normal person. Your brainwashing won't work on me." Well it would if he could break my will. Plus I'm mostly bluff, It's hard to maintain the illusion that I'm invincible. "Well it was nice talking to you but you have to go now!" I said cheerfully while pushing him out of the basement .

"Wait we haven't had our tea yet!" Discord sputtered. He then made a teapot appear in his claw.

"Sorry dissy we don't have bodies yet." I pointed out while still pushing him.

"Oh come on Nate's I'm just pulling your chain." I looked at Discord and he was holding a chain in his hand.I then looked at my right foot and I saw a chain attached to it. I returned my gaze to Discord, and he shrugged. He then snapped his fingers and the chains disappeared. "Hey nothing changed in this scene!"

"BYE BYE!" I then kicked him into the corridor. "Give my regards to Jared!" I shouted before turning my back.

------POV: JARED-----

Begone you filthy birds! I thought to myself hoping to get them go away. *PLOP* Gah! You shitty flying pieces of shit... Shitters! *PLOP*.

When I get out of here I will make that oaf suffer! I'll give him every kind of torture imaginable! But without my gauntlet I'm
powerless. Why did I accept that job? It just said I had to kill someone! It didn't say anything about these damn anthropomorphic horse nor superpowers! *PLOP* FUCK IT ALL!

Oh the princesses will pay. I will keep them alive but barely, after all I need somebody to raise the sun and moon, but sadly I only need one of them alive. I'll wait for the proper time to strike. I'll ditch discord after I regain my power.

I will then... *PLOP* Curse you filthy pigeons! Soon you will face my wrath! Shit I'm going crazy. Wait. Discord's been quiet. It's...
Very unusual... I'm thankful but...

'Did you miss me'?

'GET THE FUCK OUT OF MY HEAD OR I'LL TURN YOU INTO 7 BENTO MEALS!!! '

'Oh Hahahahahaha! You may not as interesting as Nathan but you are a very chaotic individual. Discord approves!'

'Just get to the point and get to it fast. I want you out of my head very soon.'

'Soon but not now?'

'JUST GET TO THE POINT!'

'Look out we have a badass over here.'

'STOP PROCRASTINATING!'

' Oooooh big word. Fine you're no fun. I tried to convert Nathan to our cause. I can't brainwash him, he's too strong. What a waste on the take two...'

'Huh? Wait? How? What? Did you... Nevermind, it is of no importance! I will never work with that oaf! He will not be a hindrance to our plan anyway.'

'I like your plan though, turn the element bearers against themselves. Such chaos is wonderful!'

'Of course, it makes sense but if you fail its game over for us.'

'Make sense OH HAHAHAHAHA! Making sense that's a good one! Geez lighten up... Hey! You wanna build a snooooooow maaaaaaan!?'

'GET OUT!!! '

'Ok gramps.'

'Finally! Discord left me to my own thoughts...'

'Wait this is no different from last time, you see...'

'GET! OUT!'

"Tata~"

Ugh! I can't stand him! But no matter... The gears of my plan are set in place. The fall of the Lunar and Solar Diarchs are at hand, and the Flame of courage will be extinguished, then I will then rule Equestria!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! *cough* ahem Jared... But if that oaf is freed early I have a surprise for him... The freaks are coming...

---------POV: NATHAN--------

I can't believe it! He tried to brainwash me! After all we've been through, I didn't betray him I was never on his side!

Plus he can't free me right now. Even if he did I'd end up back in stone. Whazam! Back to where I started.

........

Ok I'm bored , I wonder how long I can stay in my astral form? I can't go too far though but how long? Let's find out. I'll just wander around the castle.... Again... What's first? The organ? The Armory? The throne?

........

The organ it is!

--------Few hours later-------

I remember, Luna is the one who came up with the organ. Ah! Lunacy and Trollestia, it was fun back in the days especially when we trolled the other royals!

I went over to one of the walls and tried to touch it my hand merely phased through. Did Celestia forget me? I never saw her even once in a millennium. It seems she abandoned the castle because of the memories... I can understand how she feels but... I can't help but feel bitter sometimes.

I saved Equestria. I then fucked up. I was turned to stone and left to rot, swept under the rug and forgotten.

Celestia on the other hand is revered like a god. Luna was turned into a character in a illustrated storybook. And I was forgotten, remembered by few as a monster.

But I want to apologize for not being there for her. Sure me and Luna are suffering because of Celestia's decisions. But each of us carries the burden of a millennium's worth of guilt and regret, but Celestia's is the heaviest.

I made my choice, she made hers.

I looked at the once magnificent throne room, now ruined due to neglect and my battle against Nightmare Moon (It's a miracle that the whole castle is still standing).

"Luna..." I lost to Nightmare Moon. I was always stronger in terms of raw power compared to Celly and Lulu but, I could never hurt them even in my enraged form. They are like my own sisters. They were my friends... My weakness is to blame for... "Damn this place is depressing."

I then walked out but I stopped at the door, but I felt the urge to turn around. I turned around and my gaze fell upon the elements of harmony I smiled knowing that the mane six will wield them someday. Maybe I should take a stroll...

I then exited the castle and I was greeted by Luna's night, I was always enthralled by the night sky. Darkness illuminated by the moon and a sea of a billion stars, each so far away and yet so close.

When I was younger, my brother and I were inseparable, we would sneak out and lie on top of the rooftop of our house. We would gaze at the stars and dream about the future. But as we grew up we slowly drifted apart, until we were separated by worlds themselves.

I remember it all to well...

-----1503 years ago------

I was sitting in front of my computer, fooling around on a Gmod server. And I got kicked... again, maybe I should stop griefing in terraria and minecraft also.

I didn't bother to open my League of Legends account, I didn't feel like playing today. That and I'm upset that I have Chicken pox.

I was leaning on my chair until my cellphone rang. I leaned forward then answered it.

I then leaned back and spoke."Hello? Ah! Hey Johnathan..."

"......."

"Joy? She's at comic con." I almost dropped my cellphone at his response.

"$%#&@%¥£$@%!?!" Geeze that's loud. I held my phone away from my ears.

"Why, I'm not her boyfriend. Well she's a grown girl... That and you can't do anything from the other side of the world."

".....%@&*&%@!"

"Uhhh... She didn't tell you?" Oh shit. Fuck it I'm out. "H-h *static noise* lo? Y-y-our brea... *bzzzt* ken.." I was making sound effects with my mouth and crumpling a piece of paper. I then shut off my phone.

Whew that was close, man he's way overprotective of his sister, he should work here in America.

Well me and my brother are only half Americans. Me, my brother Michael and my cousin mark are here in America for vacation.

Well I was supposed to go with them to comic con. By brother went as Trafalgar Law, Mark went as a hunter from Monster hunter, our friends Joy and Bill went as Blackjack and Engineer respectively. Oh and I was supposed to go as Luffy.

I got bored after playing , so I decided to log in my Fimfiction account and read some fanfics.

I was a brony since I was 11(I'm fifteen now), for some reason I fell in love with the show. It seemed so wonderful, a land of harmony and friendship!

Life on earth is like a crappy game. There's no way to know the rules or the goal. Yet there are 7 billion people making whatever moves they like. If you win or lose too much there are penalties. You can't pass your turn, and if you talk too much you'll be ostracized. There are no parameters and no way to even know the game. Life is just ... A crappy game.

Geez I'm becoming pessimistic like the old coot. Next I'll be talking like that jerk.

Wait this seems Interesting. "Hmm? Power lottery group?" A new group? Sounds interesting, maybe I'll write a new fanfic with this style. I clicked on the power lotto link and scrolled through the instructions. I picked tier 4 and rolled five powers.

Claw retraction
Flower manipulation
Courage empowerment
Night vision
Esoteric flame manipulation

Wow this is crappy. I'll 'discard' flower manipulation( srly dude) and claw retraction ( sorry wolvie). Night vision might come in handy... I then 'rolled' for two more Powers and got...

Wing manifestation
Astral projection

So basically my OC is empowered by courage and weakened by fear and cowardice.
Can see in the dark, has an awesome set of wings, can project his spirit like brook, and can mow down enemies with magical fire.

"Its... Its awesome!" ( RD is best pony, Luna is best princess and Dan vs. is more scary than sombra!)

I decided to create a character on the site for the forums. I listed down the powers I got and the tier I used, I then clicked the create button.

The screen then froze and the mouse pointer turned into the 'loading cursor thingy'. "Damn! Shitty computer." The screen went black and the computer started to shake! "Nonononono fuckfuckfuck!" I then froze. Words appeared on the computer screen.

You're tired of living in this world?

What. The. Fuck.

I heard your wish.

It's only a skilled hacker... I'm scared shitless in all honesty... This is creepy...

I can make it true.

"......." My wish...

Look behind you...

My instincts and mind told me no but I was compelled to listen. I turned around and.... "Holy shit!" A fricken space portal thingy! And I was slowly being pulled into it! "Nononono AAAAAAAAAHHHH!" I let out one last scream of terror then my consciousness drifted as everything faded into darkness...

------------------------

Its so cold. Wait. Cold? I'm not lying down on my bed but... Its soft... Snow!? "Where am I? Ugghhh..." I woke up with a massive headache. I got up and groaned as I opened my eyes...

"MY EYES! Ow fuck so bright!" Why is it so bright?! I then fell back to the ground. I then crawled around and my hand came into contact with something... Glasses? Wait these are my shades! I put on my shades then I slowly opened my eyes. My eyes were a bit sore but at least not in agony.

I scanned my surroundings then I noticed I was in the middle if a forest. In the middle of winter. What's the big deal? It's supposed to be summer.

I then started walking about... Wait! I'm relatively calm about this. Of course this is a dream! " Wow this is a weird dre..." I didn't get to finish that sentence as I tripped on a tree root and hit my head on a rock. "Stupid rock!" I'm usually calm and slow to anger, but my temper flared right away, I felt my head and body heat up, I was so pissed... Wait... Oh I'm on fire...

"OH FUCK I'M ON FIRE! I'monfireI'monfire!" I began to panic and flail my arms about in an attempt to extinguish the fire. Huh? the fire's gone. As soon as it came it left.

I then stood up and clenched my fist then I opened it... My hand was engulfed in fire! But my hand is intact... I can feel pain from where I hit my head...

"Oh fuck..."

*Freakout session*

--------Present-----------

" You may never know what the worth of an object is until you lose it, may it be an arm, a leg, your morals, or your .... Friends." I looked at the moon and... The moon! The shadow on its surface is gone! That means...

"Wooooona is back~!" I cried out." I just can't help it, I haven't had good news in a millennium! Or any news for that matter. Celly may be beautiful but Luna is... "Kawaii! *girly squeal* ahem I shall await her arrival!"

------3 hours later-------

"Arrrgghhh! So... Bored..." I was resting in front of the castle. ( I almost forgot that I was in spirit form). I then saw a thick fog in the distance and a.. Purple mist fast approaching.

Said purple mist turned into a black alicorn with a flowing ethereal mane, she was clad in light blue armor said to be made of star metal, she had draconic eyes and she stood at a majestic 6ft 7" height. She had a smug look on her face, said look turned into fear upon seeing me.

Oh this is rich. I then ran towards her in slow motion (just like in anime or in cheezy romance movies) and shouted.. " Wooooona~!" What can I say, I love messing with people (ponies) " You're baaaaaaack~!" I love that look, from fear to utter confusion. I then lunged at her.

She managed to compose herself, she then fashioned a sword out of dark magic and took a swing at me.

I merely phased through Nightmare Moon and her blade. I landed behind her and started laughing.

"OH! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! That is priceless Luna!" She was glaring at me like she's trying to make me explode or something.

"Silent! Spirit of Courage! Your Princess Luna is no more!" Her smug look then returned. "You are not bound to your body, you can bring no harm to me! Celestia could not stop me, you are no longer able, and the elements have no bearers! And the night will last...." Ok that's a bit wordy moony.

I then interrupted her "FOREVEEEEEEEER!" I then started laughing maniacally "Ok moony gotta go! Get ready for the boss fight! TTFN~!" I then disappeared in a flash leaving confused moony behind.

I then reappeared in the castle.Man I hang around Discord too much. But still the look on her face, priceless! I haven't had fun in ages(literally)!

I then flew up a support column and perched myself on it. On a related note I can choose to be seen or not while in my spirit form. Of course I chose the latter. From my vantage point I can see everything that is about to unfold. Oh and here they come!

Applejack the orange farm gal wearing a red and black checkered button up shirt over a white undershirt and a pair of denim jeans. She towered 2 inches over me.

Rarity, Mrs Generosity herself, she's wearing a blue dress and a pair of white boots(the fancy kind if course). She's an inch shorter than me.

Rainbow Dash our favourite cyan pegasus and resident tomboy wearing a white hoodie with her cutie mark emblazoned on the back, under the hoodie is a black tank top paired with black workout shorts and a pair of... Wait is that pair of Nike? She's around 5ft. 5".

Fluttershy diabeetus inducer and animal lover wearing a green sweater and a long brown skirt. I think she is 5 feet 6 inches tall.

Pinkie pie the... Wait did she just wave at me? Meh, I waved back anyways. She was wearing a yellow blouse, a pair of jean shorts, long purple striped socks and sneakers. I think she is 5ft 6".

And finally Twilight Sparkle, the adorkable protégé of Princess Celestia. She was wearing a light blue blouse with a red ribbon, a dark purple skirt with her cutie mark on and a pair of purple boots. 5ft 4" in height .(she'll get taller in a few seasons)

They walked through the castle until they came across the 'orbital thingy' that is holding the elements.

Applejack was the one who broke the silence. "Whoa. Come on, Twilight. Isn't this what you've been waitin' for?"

"The Elements of Harmony, we've found them." Twilight said, Flutters and RD then carefully lowered the elements one by one.
"Careful, careful!" Twilight warned.

Pinkie then counted the elements. "One, two, three, four... There's only five!" Pinkie stated.

Now here comes the million dollar question... "Where's the sixth?" ...Coming from RD.

Twilight then answered. "The book said: when the five are present, a spark will cause the sixth Element to be revealed." And Twilight nabs a million dollars
... Which is useless in Equestria.

Applejack seemed frustrated at the riddle. "What in the hay is that supposed to mean?" My goodness it's simple! The spark is the connection between the bearers! Nakama! Friendship! I really want to tell them right now.

Twilight then spoke up. "I'm not sure, but I have an idea. Stand back. I don't know what will happen."

Applejack led everypony out of the room. "Come on now, y'all. She needs to concentrate."

After leaving Twilight, she sat among the elements trying to activate the elements by using her magic. "Aah!" The elements swirled around her, she took this as a sign of success until the elements were enveloped in a purple swirling haze.

The other ponies rushed back in to help Twilight. "Twilight! They shouted in unison.

Twilight leapt at Nightmare Moon in an attempt to get the elements back. "The elements!" Twilight shouted before being teleported with moony.

The mane 6-1 stood there Wondering what happened to Twilight. They then saw a flash in a higher part of the castle, they then ran towards the source.

I was in no hurry so I just walked. I let down my cloak and started walking. I was stopped in my tracks as I heard a voice.

"Nathan?"

I turned around and was mildly surprised at who I saw.

Princess Celestia.

She was wearing a white toga along with her royal regalia. Her mane used to be pink now it is a four color rainbow composed of Light cerulean, Light turquoise, Very light cobalt and blue Pale heliotrope. (how do I know those colors?) She just stood there like she saw a ghost.(I am a ghost theoretically)

So she still knows my name what a relief!(I'm being sarcastic.) I have no idea what to say maybe I should have practiced...

It seemed like an eternity as we stared at each other. I said nothing and turned around. I then disappeared in a flash.

-----------------

Well that was awkward. I reappeared to see the mane six were using the Elements of Harmony against Nightmare Moon. Power was surging through me as I was watching.

It's simple really if disharmony occurs near Discord he gets a power boost. I get a power boost from the courage of others.

And this is a big power boost.

Maybe I could use this extra power... I let spirit slip back into my body. As I returned to my body I could feel the power well up inside me. I never felt my power in more than a thousand years. Yes... It feels good...

I drew upon everything I could muster. I heard cracks run along the stone shell, with one final push, the stone shell bursted.
"Arrrggghhh!"

I emerged from the spot I stood for more than a millennium. I smiled and looked at my body, my body was surrounded in a golden flame."I am free!" I never felt so good.I took a step forward then I felt like crap...

"Freedom.... Ugghh.." I then collapsed (in a lame way) and fell into slumber...

Chapter 2: Freaks, a Dragon and the Cliff(rewritten)

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CHAPTER 2: FREAKS, A DRAGON AND THE CLIFF

----POV: JARED----

'Soooooo...' I'm not in the mood for your crap Discord.

'What now discord? I'm trying to sleep.' I answered anyways.

'These pony freaks you talk of... Are free?'

'Yes!'

'The 6 wonderful mares who assisted you in almost defeating Nathan and mooncheeks and sunbutt combined?

'Yes!'

'The, Elements of Insanity?

'For the one thousandth time. YES!' My god! He's annoying!

'Wonderful! We are good as free! All we need is a beacon!' Discord proclaimed. 'Oh and I only asked nine hundred fifty two times but only 3 on screen...' Huh?

He has no idea... 'No! I'm good as dead!' I mentally yelled. 'They don't take kindly to the fact that I manipulated them using my magic! Without my gauntlet I have no control over them! At least I put that seal...'

'Ooooh what kind?'

'A very complex fate sharing spell... If one of the freaks die they all die and the seal is shared by Nathan also. But it also works if one of them is freed all of them are freed including Nathan!'

Discord remained silent so I continued. 'I am merely gambling on the fact that they will try and kill him first. If they decide to kill me first it's game over for me! He's almost a fucking saint, he won't kill them, he will just subdue them... Unless... They push him two hard... That is also the reason when Nathan was imprisoned the freaks turned to stone too.'

I paused for a moment... Wait Discord left my mind... Nevermind, I'm glad that nutcase is out of my head.

I need to get my gauntlet back, without it I have no magic, once I get it back I have control over the pony freaks again. Discord won't let me rule Equestria so I need to find Discord's weakness so that l can kill him or drain his power.

I also need to identify the new element bearers and kill at least one of them, and maybe destroy the Elements if possible. The Crystal Heart would be big boost to my power but unfortunately the Crystal Empire disappeared. That idiot Sombra... The Alicorn amulet's whereabouts is unknown.

I will kill Celestia because she is stronger, wait no. Luna may not submit to me, Celestia would think of the safety of her little horses first. I don't think I can torture out of them the spell to raise the sun and moon.

As for Nathan if he dies at the hands of the freaks or mine it matters not. I can replace the freaks easily, so it doesn't matter if he dies now or later, though it is preferable if I could make him suffer myself.

I wonder what kind of ponies the bearers are. Are they warriors? Are they alicorns? Celestia may be a fool but she wouldn't entrust the Elements to normal ponies...

----POV: NATHAN----

"Uggghhh... Damn, that was the crappiest sleep I've ever had." I woke up on the same cold cobblestone floor I collapsed on.Guess I need to train soon... Well time to get moving.

With a grunt I stood up and started stretching. Pops and cracks resounded from the neglected joints. I then scratched my nose. "Damn that feels better." I guess I actually learned something. Boredom has to be weaponized because it can kill somebody in it's raw form. I then chuckled and made my way out of the basement.

I'd never thought that a person could miss the simple things of life...

As I stepped out of the castle I took in the fresh air. The air never smelled sweeter. I then broke into a sprint and rolled around in the grass. As I lay on my back I was waving my arms and legs like I was making a snow angel. I then looked at the sun. "Huh? Its noon. How long have I been out?"

I then got up and shook the grass off me. I then realized where I am.

....

The Everfree Forest.

"Meh. Nevermind."

To those who wonder why my actual appearance does not match my astral form I have no idea. Well... My astral form looks like my original body.

I removed my helmet and stroked my crimson hair with my free left hand. I was wearing my cobalt gloves and a black coat, under my coat is a purple and gold chestplate, signature colors of the captain of the guard. I was wearing black pants and a pair of boots. I touched my shades then looked at the surrounding forest.

What do I do now? What if my powers act up? What if Celly immediately blasts me? Or the elements blast me? I never thought that I'd actually reach this point...

Nevermind.

I'll just wing it, hehe wing it... I then flared my wings, to be honest, I almost forgot I even have wings. I then put away my wings.

I heard gunshots coming from deeper within the Everfree. I assumed a battle stance and covered my forearms with flames. Three manticores came running out. "Bring it!" I shouted. The three manticores simply ignored me and continued to run in terror. Who could have spooked them?

--POV: RAINBINE--

"Ughh... This is boring!" I groaned as I shot another timberwolf. These things are soooo weak. I'd rather be back at Teufort. The other freaks are actually a challenge. "I'm gonna kill that bastard."

"But why Brutalight sent only the two of us? Applepills asked.

"Because I'm that awesome! And besides, Brutalight said that Nathan is weak right now!"

"I don't know Rainbine... He beat all six of us at once." Applepills said in a dull tone as she punched a timberwolf.

I turned around and glared at Applepills. I. Don't. Lose. "Beat us? He got lucky! Plus I was totally holding back on him." Its not boasting if its true. I could totally take him on by myself.

Applepills suddenly lunged forward... "What the!" I blocked but no punch came. I turned around and saw that she punched a manticore.

"Your all hat and no cattle." What's that supposed to mean!? She then gestured to the manticore. "All yours partner ." I glared at Applepills and shot the manticore several times without looking, the three other manticores went off running.

"I saw that coming..." Well I do have proximity sensors.

She just rolled her eyes and continued walking. I then heard a familiar voice. "Bring it!" Oh that bastard. He's good as dead.

"Applepills. Wait here. I'm gonna get that fucker..." I said.

"Are you pilsy, I mean CRAZY!?" Applepills shouted.

"Nah. Just watch, I'm gonna, tear that bastard apart." That flaming piece of shit stands no chance against me.

Applepills just shrugged and said. "I'll just hang back. But the moment you have a hard time am stepping in." I then headed over to a bunch of bushes.

"He's just like a sitting duck..." I wispered. I then leveled my shotgun arm at him. After this fucker is dead, I'm going after Jared. I then fired three shots.

----POV: NATHAN----

I was standing there waiting for someone to come out. I only know two persons err... Ponies who uses guns... I heard someone but I couldn't make out the words... I instinctively thrust my left hand forward and let out a stream of flames. Three bullets came out and were immediately turned into slag.

Whew that was close. I then shouted... "Are you coming out or do I have to ask a pile of ashes!?" I'm mostly bark. But my teeth are sharp too. Usually all I need is to cover myself in flames and they run fast enough to put sonic to shame.

Probably its just an old Lady with a shotgun.

I then heard a mechanical distorted laughter.

Fate... Why you u know shitten me?

A pale cyan pegasus with a pale rainbow messy mane stepped out of the bushes. She was wearing some kind of sleeveless armour highlighted with neon green lines, her legs were also covered in the same armour. Her cutie mark was emblazoned on her thighs. She was wearing a weird set of earpieces. She was grinning at me manically.

Rainbine...

"Hey you fricken moron! Did ya miss me!" She shouted. Oh fuck. I'm not 100% yet... "What!? Have you gone fricken mute!?" She's like the thing that wouldn't shut up.

I said nothing and started to walk away. *BANG*. A shot was fired just in front of my feet. I glanced at my feet then I moved my glance over to a pissed looking cyborg. "Where do you think your going you freaking moron!" Her right arm morphed into a weird looking shotgun. "Do you even have the balls to fight me!?" Looks like she picked the hard way...

I faced her and she had a smug looking grin on her face. I smiled back then hurled a medium sized fireball at her.

She flew away from the blast effectively dodging it. I then let out a stream of fire to intercept her. She's fast. She managed to avoid the stream and she landed a good distance away from me. "Come on! Is that all you got!? " She then leveled her gun towards me. "If that's all you got your fucking dead!"

"There's more from where that came from skittles!" I then shouted. "Stop swearing too much! This is rated T only!" I shouted.

"Huh?" Hehehe

She was confused for a moment. I Then ran towards her. She managed to regain her composure and started firing at me. I was dodging each shot she fired at me but a few shots hit my chestplate and one grazed my neck. Damn I'm rusty.

I then threw a left hook at her which she blocked, she then did a sweep to try and knock me down. I jumped and kicked her in the chin, she staggered back from the force of the blow. I then landed on my feet and aimed a haymaker at her face, I shouted...
"ROKURU KABUTO! BURST!" She got knocked back a nice distance, she then returned to her feet.

"Come on is..." She didn't finish her sentence as I delivered a flaming punch to her stomach followed up by a flaming uppercut.

"SHURYOKEN!" Damn I always wanted to say that. My uppercut launched her into the air I then flew above her and delivered a fire powered axe kick which sent her back to earth.(Terra?) Forming a small crater. I then blasted her with a giant fire ball

I then landed in front of the crater. I then slowly walked over to Rainbine. "Ugghh..." Huh? That's all? Maybe because they just woke up too. She then tried to get up. "Y-you bastard... I'm gonna Kill you." She was sparking all over as she spoke.

I then touched her muzzle with my index finger. "Boop!" I said cheerfully. She scrunched her muzzle then glared at me "Yo Rainbine, I'm going now! I need to grab some grub. Chow!" I then ran off to search for food. I only made it a few meters then something kicked me in the stomach.

It felt like a truck hit me... I was sent flying but I managed regain my control by flaring my wings. I then hovered for a while before landing on the ground. I then looked at my assailant.

She was an earth pony, she had a tan coat and a black mane in a ponytail. She was wearing black boots, dark jeans a black sleeveless jacket over a white T-shirt, around her neck was a red bandanna.

Great Rainbine, now Applepills. Fate really hates me.

"Hey there partner! Wha cha doing." I drawled in an attempt to imitate her accent.

She still held her dull expression and spoke. "Don't mock me." I wouldn't try too. She's kinda like hulk but weaker, and without a healing factor.

"So your here to kill me too?" I asked even though I know the answer.

"Eeeeyup." She said plainly.

I shrugged and said... "Okay..." I then pointed and yelled. "PILLS!"

She then looked around frantically. "Where!? Where!?" I then dashed towards her, blazing.

"In your face!" I then unleashed a haymaker to her face. She took a swing and I ducked. I then punched her stomach a few times. She brought up her arms and delivered down to earth in an attempt to crush me. I rolled out of the way and tried to knock her off her hooves. My sweep was just shrugged off. She's like a fricken juggernaut.

She then grabbed be by the back of my neck and my back. She then tossed me into a tree. Impressive distance. "Ow!" The tree then creaked and fell on top of me. "Ouch! Benny... Bobby..." I groaned in pain. "Ugghh... Nathan Junior..." It doesn't take a genius to know...

Applepills' glare turned into a look of confusion then shifted into wide eyed realization.

Rainbine on the other hand was laughing. "*Bzzzzt* HAHAHAHAHAHA! Oh fuck! Hahahaha! *coughing* That's hilarious!"

Applepills started laughing too.

Chance! I ignored the pain and lifted the fallen tree with a grunt. I let out high powered jets of fire from my elbows. I then tossed the fallen tree at Applepills.

"Ooof!"

I fist pumped and shouted. "Direeeeeeect! Hit!" Well, my victory was short lived. She groaned and got up. I took a few steps back then tripped on the tree trunk and fell on my back.

She then glared at me and gritted her teeth. Oh fuck. She then rushed over and tried to stomp on me in a attempt to crush me. She missed but barely. If it was a little higher... "Do you really want to end my family line!?" I shouted. She then grabbed my head with her hands and lifted me off the ground.

She started crushing my head. "Owowowow! My head!" She only responded by crushing my head harder. My helmet is enchanted but it can only take so much damage. I began repeatedly punching her face to get out. It was futile. Hope this works. I booped her muzzle and yelled cheerfully. "Boop!" She dropped me and her muzzle scrunched.

My arms blazed from red flames to purple flames. I then let out giant fist shaped blasts of fire. "Purple punch!" I know not the coolest name but it works. She was sent flying through several trees. "Homerun! New York Yankees! Ugghh... That hurts..." I hope I'm not that beat up. I was clutching my stomach and my head.

I walked over to Rainbine, she was still conscious. "So... How are you doing?" I asked as I bent down. She responded by spitting on my face. I wiped the saliva mixed with blood off my face.

"*Bzzzzt* Go... To... Hell.. *Bzzzt*" She has no idea...

Heh. I've been in Tartarus before. I stood up and answered. "I've been in Tartarus and forced my way out." I aimed my hand at her and blasted her in the face with purple flame. I didn't kill her I merely knocked her out. I grabbed her by her left hoof and dragged her out of the crater.

I dropped her then I proceeded to the place Applepills crashed. She crashed through several trees before stopping. I knelt down and felt her pulse. "...." She's just unconscious. I dragged her over to where I dropped Rainbine. I sat down in front of the two freaks.

I should take my helmet off. I grabbed my helmet and tried to take it off. Hey! Its not budging! I grabbed my helmet and tried to pry it off. "Come! On!" I set my hands ablaze and tore the helmet in half. I then tossed the offending piece of metal as far as I could.

So let's think about this...

So the Elements of Insanity are awake, but I don't remember them being captured, maybe after I was imprisoned Tia caught them...

But the elements should have purged the spirits that possessed the Alt mane six. Maybe it's the same when Tia used them on NMN, instead of separating Luna and Moony they got banished to the moon.

Brutalight underestimates me too much, I'm good at combat yet she sends two combatants instead... Maybe she's just weakening me, but Pinkis has self uber charge, she would make a better choice.

CBS(Christian Brutal Sniper) is the dominant personality in Brutalight, but it is safe to assume that she has Twilight's intelligence...

Yep she underestimated me. And I thought Celly had military blunders...

So what should I do to these two?

--10 minutes later--

I made thick chains using my Chaos magic, I then bound them upside down somewhere in the Castle of the two Sisters. I then created a safe and put a bottle of pills in it, I then put a sign with pills written on it. As much as I want to see Applepills go berserk over a bottle of pills I better get out before they wake up.

After walking for a bit a I felt dizzy, I staggered then fell on my knees. My stomach then growled at me. *grumble* I guess the only thing that was keeping me going is the magic I gained. l have to find food soon.

I got back up on my feet shakily and continued walking. As I exited the castle I looked at the green grass. I wonder how grass tastes? I bent down and grabbed a fistfull of grass. I then shoved it into my mouth. "Hmmm... *munch munch munch* bland. But surprisingly edible." Wait why am I eating grass? I then spit out the grass, how hard did I hit my head?

I continued walking until I came across a lake. I knelt down and washed my bloody face with the crystal clear water.

That fight took a lot out of me... I'm gonna need to train, it's been more than a millennium since I last fought.

I then checked myself for injuries. I lost some of my pride and almost lost the thing that makes me a man. I have a graze on my neck, my head feels like it was crushed by Celestia's weight .

My back is very sore, possibly my spine is a bit off. My right arm is dislocated.

I then removed my coat, I removed my armour and T-shirt I then checked my body, chest okay, abs... "Ow." I bruised my ribs... At least my ribs aren't broken. Without the armour I might have got hurt badly...

I took off my boots and leapt into the lake. As I floated I started thinking, a lot of things don't make sense...

I closed my eyes and thought about things.

If Discord can enter astral form and brainwash people, why hasn't he? Or why didn't he find someone to free him?

If the Elements of insanity are free, why hasn't Jared appear yet? He would like to kill me personally... The freaks are probably not under his control, which means he isn't freed yet.

Celestia probably doesn't know I escaped yet... Luna for some reason hasn't entered my dreams. Which means I have a month at most, but a few days at least before they know I'm gone.

Let's sum this up. So Jared is out of the picture. Luna and Celestia do not know that I'm free. The Elements of Insanity are hunting me. I should make the first move, If I can gain the trust of at least one of the mane six, Celestia would deem me as tolerable. But it would take a while to get her complete trust back. Brutalight must have set her eyes on the bearers already. There is also the fact that Discord might mix things up...

I'm worried that all of them might attack the same time. I can't beat them easily without other
casualties or killing them. Fuck collateral damage.

I then opened my eyes and looked at the sky.

Maybe I should go on a well deserved vacation after things calm down.

Or maybe settle down. I'm good at drawing, I can also make good cheesecake, probably even join the wonderbolts if I'm allowed too. I'm theoretically a citizen. I'm done with the military, to many rules.

If I ever get out of this mess.

My old enemies might resurface anytime...

*Grumble*

Food first, contemplate on life, the universe, and cupcakes later.

I made my way out of the water and set my self ablaze to dry off. I then put on my clothes. I should start fishing before it gets dark.

After making a campfire. Collecting a bunch of sticks and a long one and sharpening them. I'm ready to go fishing.

"Let ze fishing commence!"

---An hour later---

I was happily munching on the fish I caught, I caught plenty actually. What does a manticore taste like anyways? I stopped munching and thought about it. "Hmm... Probably like chicken." I then continued munching.

I then heard some rustling in the bushes. They're awake already? I got up and assumed my battle stance. "Hey! Ready for round two?!" I shouted. I formed a fireball in my left hand, ready chuck it at the bitches. Something came out of the bushes.

A... Bear?

A brown grizzly bear came out. Oooh maybe it's Harry! Flutter's pet bear. A normal person would run but I'm no normal person. "Sooo... I take it your Harry?" The bear in question was sniffing the air. He then glanced at the pile of raw fish. He groaned at me.

So I take it he's hungry. "Here you go big guy." I said as I set aside a pile of fish. He groaned and dug in the pile of fish. After eating our respective meals I gave my leftovers to the bear. He then lay down and I used him as a big pillow afterwards. For a bear he's very tame I guess he really is Flutter's bear.

After lying down for a bit I got up and started wandering around, leaving behind a sleeping bear. I wonder where Zecora's... "Whoa!" I tripped on a rock and fell off a cliff. (Where did the cliff come from?) "Oof! Ow! How!? Tall!? Is!? This!? Cliff... *groans*." I said as I rolled down the said cliff. I soon found myself lying down face first in the dirt.

I slowly got up and found myself in front of a cave. Hmm... Dark cave with possible danger and/or unspeakable horrors or maybe mountains of treasure. "Sounds good to me!" Smiling broadly I entered the cave.

As I progressed it became darker and darker, I took off my shades and continued walking, night vision comes in handy at times. I came across a large room filled with... All sort of gems, pearls, gold and various treasures.

I took a handful of gems and shoved it in my pockets. Ooooh a long sword. This would look good on a wall but better by my side. I picked the sword up and examined it.

The sheath was black and highlighted with gold. The hilt of the sword is gold and encrusted with a emerald. I took off the sheath and examined the blade itself, it looks like a plain blade to the untrained eye but it is forged by a master, I also felt enchantments but as for now I cannot identify them...

Something feels off... I sheathed the sword and clipped it to my belt. Wait. Pile of treasure? Dark cave away from civilization? Oh fuck...

This is a dragon's hoard...

I turned around and looked up. And I saw slenderman! Nah. I saw a green dragon whose nostrils were smoking. "Hello there my big scaly friend. How does life fare thee." I said in an attempt to diffuse the situation.

The dragon replied. "You dare steal from me!?" He (I assumed) then blew smoke from his nostrils in my face. "YOU DARE STEAL FROM ME, EVERGREEN!? PONY!" Hehehe that name! I managed not to laugh.

"My huge friend, that's..." I then gestured with my left hand as if I was thinking of what to say "...Racism err... A speciest... And to your question... Yeah!" He let out a roar and raised a claw. "Let us settle this like gentlemen!" I said while cracking my knuckles.

The dragon brought down its right claw and I merely rolled out of the way. It then swung its left claw at me, I ducked out of the way. I then blasted it with a huge fireball. Dragons are actually fire resistant when it comes to magic flame. The blast knocked the green dragon back. Why does this seem so familiar... I flew up and then let out a flurry of purple fist shaped blasts. "One thousand punches!" I shouted.

"ENOUGH!" The dragon bellowed. He then let out a stream of fire at me. I extended my left arm controlled the flames. Let's just say I did fancy movements and the flames danced at my will. I then wrapped myself in the flames and slowly descended in front of the dragon.

The dragon's jaw dropped and his eyes widened. He then babbled something. "Fos los hi!?" I raised an eyebrow at this. Dovahzul? The dragon language in Skyrim? All of the dragons I met either have a translator talisman or speak english. "Nid... Nid! Nid! Nid! Nid hi los nunon zoor. Hi los dovah kriid!" I only picked out the words no (nid), dragon (dovah) and you (hi).

"Lost aaz nau zey!" Shit, just shut up I don't understand half of what your saying. He was about to ramble some more so I cut him off.

"SHUT THE FUCK UP YOU OVERGROWN LIZARD!" He then cowered in fear. "Speak in Equestrian!"

"Oh dragon slayer have mercy on me! Forgive me for my boldness! Do not kill me!" Heh. At least the dragons still remember me. The dragon then pushed a large amount of his hoard in front of me. "Take as much as you want! Just spare my life!" Tempting... I'll take another handful.

"Thanks. Just another handful." I then grabbed another handful of treasure. "Oh. I decided not to kill you. Just don't threaten any ponies." He then nodded rapidly in understanding. "But." He tensed as I spoke. I then flew on top of his snout and spoke."Your life is mine. You will stay here until I summon you in future battles."

"Yes master." Yay! I have a dragon! He might come in handy. "I will serve you until the day I die." Or until you save my ass, *sigh* Dragon code... How exactly did I save this guy's life anyways?

Hmmm... My reputation is worse than I thought. People remembered me as a mass murderer and a monster.

"Soooo... Uhh... Just carry on and I'll be on my way." He's like a frightened child not a fearsome dragon. Man this is ackward. I then turned my back and walked out of the cave.

What the hell just happened?

As I neared the exit I put on my shades back on. "Hmm... How am I going to get back to that lake?" I asked myself. Damn I'm hungry again. I looked at the sky and saw that the sun was starting to set. I also need to find shelter, why did I leave those two at the castle?

I started walking through the forest. So many questions yet the answers are never near. So many things are beyond me.

But fuck it! I'm awesome.

I know one thing though. Fate will smile at me one day. Things will get better.

Chapter 3: Hold your fire!

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Chapter 3: Hold your fire!

Why did I leave those two at the castle? Maybe I should have tossed them in the river or something. I asked myself as I was munching on some fish I caught earlier. I set camp in the cave were I found the dragon a while ago, I didn't camp in the dragon's chamber because reasons.

It was quiet aside from the crackling of the campfire and the occasional howl of the Timberwolves. Damn, that's a quiet dragon. Or am I deaf?

On another note, I bet the two freaks are after me right now. Applepills has normal eyesight but Rainbine has proximity sensors. And I'm basically a walking torch, I'm surprised the forest hasn't burned down yet. Damn freaks. Easy to kill hard to subdue.

I also have no idea if the other freaks are here or not.

I think Evergreen can take them on but I'd rather use him on another occasion, plus I can handle myself anyways. I beat them before I can do it a thousand times over. But that was when I was at full power...

I stopped munching as I realized something. "This is like a fucked up game of chess plus hide and seek." If I don't move soon everybody will be after me. And that is the last thing I need.

So... "I shall make my move! "I then stood up. "Someone once said do not wait for the perfect moment, seize the moment and make it perfect!" I then threw my hands up in the air but I immediately sat down and crossed my arms and legs.

"I shall make the moment perfect tomorrow." What!? It's like nighttime, I could probably attone for my sins in the morning. Plus a moment that will set the path to my redemption won't come in the middle of the night much less in the middle of the Everfree Forrest.

I then heard a scream coming from the middle of the forest.

I Chuckled and shook my head. "Fate. Two things, fuck you and I love you."

I got up and ran out of the cave, I then spread my wings and took flight, I landed on the cliff I fell off a while ago. Why am I still wearing my shades? It's nighttime. I placed my shades on my forehead and squinted my eyes as I looked into the distance.

From beyond the bushes I saw several glowing green eyes in the distance and a... Yellow filly with a red mane running from what I could assume are Timberwolves...
A pack of seven Timberwolves...
Oh that's Applebloom. What the fuck is Applebloom doing in the middle of the Everfree?

As I ran towards the pack of Timberwolves I drew my sword and clutched it in my left hand. I wonder though... I was always a lefty, they say lefties are good in arts...

Well swordplay is an art.

Applebloom tripped on a very convenient root and fell face first in the dirt. A Timberwolf then tried leap on the fallen filly.

Oh no you don't. This move took me a lot of practice. "No bestiality on my watch!" I shouted as I hurled my sword at the wooden dog. It spun as it sailed through the air, shattering the wooden dog, my sword then came back like a boomerang. I ran and did a flip catching my sword in mid air. "Eat your heart out Draven!" I said as I landed. I glanced at the stunned filly as she got up.

"Little filly, are you alright?" She stared at me with her orange eyes. She nodded slowly with her mouth open. "Good." I then turned my attention back to the wolves. Three of them rushed upon me and I responded by swinging my sword in a arc, shattering the wolves.

A wolf jumped on me and latched itself on my right shoulder. "Gah! Arrrghh!" I smashed the wolf's head with the hilt of my sword. Damn I need to get back in shape.

Two wolves were growling at me, waiting for a chance to pounce on me. I formed a small ball of orange flame in my hand. I then threw it at woody blowing it up. I then asked the remaining wolf. "You were saying?" The wolf whimpered and fell to the ground as a pile of twigs. "Thought so."

I then turned to face Applebloom. She was staring at me wide eyed and mouth agape. Oh shit. I think I scared her shittless.

"....."

"Mister that was amazing! How did ya do that!?" I could have sworn I heard crickets chirping.

Out from my mouth came an unintelligible reply. "......Eh?" That is tad bit ooc Applebloom. I then composed myself and spoke. "Didn't your elders tell you don't talk to strangers?"

"Uhhh....." Applebloom replied.

"My name is... Nathan , now I am not a stranger. What's your name little filly?" I asked even though I know her name.

"Oh! Mah name's Applebloom! She cheerfully said. "An I am not little!" She stomped and pouted. Hnnng! Dia... Beetus! (Geez I know how to spell it properly diabetes.)

I laughed in the face of death countless times and walked through Tartarus with a smile. But to cuteness I must submitt and gain type 2 diabeetus in the process.

I still managed to resist the cuteness and the urge to snuggle the filly. "Hehe, okay young lady, don't get your mane in a bunch." I joked. But my tone then went serious. "But what are you doing here? The Everfree is dangerous especially around nighttime."

She looked down and shifted uncomfortably. "Well ah... Ah couldn't sleep so ah went out... I heard some loud noise, I then saw a pillar of some strange looken fire in the forrest so ah..." Shit. She saw that?

----one hour ago----

Shit! I was just minding my own business and a Cragadile appears and attacks me! How come these things always happen to me!? Damn stone hide, my flames are almost useless! The Cragadile spewed fire on me. Wrong move. I extended my left hand and the flames parted around me.

"Haha! Ooof!" The Cragadile leapt in front of me, knocking me down. How the fuck is that possible!? How can a fucking one ton stone crocodile jump!? But in all honesty I think it's supposed to be an alligator... No time for that. Okay. Shit, it caught me in it's maw. I'm kinda calm about this...

Panicking now. "AAAAAAAHHHHHH!" I shouted as I repeatedly punched the Cragadile's head in an attempt to break free. I then grabbed both sides of its maw and forced it open. As I tried to get out it started crushing me again. It then threw me high into the air and opened its maw. Waiting for it's meal to fall down.

Not today lady death. I then blasted the Cragadile with a giant stream of purple fire.

*BOOM*

The good thing about purple fire it doesn't burn things like normal fire, in fact I can hold things with it. Sure it's still hot... I can also use it sucker punch people because I can manipulate its properties, make it as solid as rock or flexible like water.

But enough of the magical mumbo jumbo.

I landed in front of the knocked out Cragadile, lying down in a crater. Well that was loud.I hope nobody noticed the stunt I did. Well it's late, no one is up by now...

----Present----

"And history was made." I said as I cut her off, shoving the flashback of my Cragadile encounter to the back of my head.

She tilted her head to the side. "Huh?"

"Nevermind let's get you back home." I said. "Your family must be worried sick if they find out you're gone."

"Oh no! Mah big sister is going to ground me forever for this! Am never gonna get my cutie mark! What if..." Okay that's enough.

I smiled and asked. "What if Timberwolves attack us? How about Manticores? Or... Cragadiles or a Hydra?" She then latched herself on my right leg, while visibly shaking.

"M-m-manticores? H-hydras?" She shakily asked. I did babysitting once. I was never allowed again. "O-okay let's go..." But still. Monsters under your bed, works every time.

I looked down at the filly attached to my leg. I stroked her red mane and tried to comfort her. "Shh... It's going to be alright... I'll get you back safe and sound..." I coed.

"R-really?" She asked.

"Yeah let's get going." I hope we don't encounter any unwanted guests.

----1 hour later----

"Are we lost?" Applebloom asked.

I can see perfectly in the dark but I have no sense of direction. "No." I answered. I hate to admit it but I have no idea where I am. Maybe I should take to the skies to get an idea where I am. "Applebloom. Stay here. I'll fly up and check." Before she could react I spread my wings and took flight. As I hovered above the forest I could see Ponyville and Sweet Apple Acres.

I then landed beside Applebloom with a direction in mind. "Mister Nathan? Are you a pegasus?" Uhhh... Theoretically I guess.

"Call me Nathan. And uhh... Yeah. Didn't you see my wings?" I'm a horrible liar, but she's just a little girl. She wouldn't notice it, right?

Oh yeah ponies can't see well in the dark. "I didn't notice them until ya flew. But how did ya do magic?" *Sigh* Man she's curious.

"Uhh... Magical glove artifact thingy?" I said as I showed her my gloved hands. Geez it's hard to ignore the pain. She's breaking my focus.

"Wow!" Applebloom exclaimed. "Can I try?" A kid is asking to wield a magical artifact. Well it's not a power glove. It's a suppressor slash stabilizer for my powers.

"No." I answered flatly. She pouted again. Enough with the pouts! I'm gonna die of cuteness. "No." I said firmly. She crossed her arms and looked down.

"Aw shoot! Sorry Nathan." She apologized. The problem with ponies especially fillies, can't resist them can't stay mad at them forever.

"Nah. It's okay. Just..." I stopped walking as I saw a glint in the sky. "Applebloom. Hop on my back." I commanded her.

"Huh? Whoa!" I grabbed her and placed her on my shoulders, ignoring the pain. "What are you doing!?" She asked.

I started running. "Running!" I shouted back. Just like on cue explosions followed as I ran. Damn why now!? "Hold on!" I shouted. She responded by wrapping her arms around my forehead.

"What's going on!" She shouted.

I didn't answer, instead I continued running. My running came to a stop when something hit me in the guts. "*crack!* Ooof!" As I sailed through the air I instinctively grabbed Applebloom and held her to my chest.

"*Crash! Crack!* Gah!" I went through a tree and skidded on the ground for a bit. Pain. And lots of it. Applebloom got off me and went to my side. "Nathan! Are you okay!?" I smiled and gave her a thumbs up.

I got up and leaned on a nearby tree. I started coughing. I covered my mouth and coughed blood. I looked at my blood covered hand and smirked. Heh. "Your hurt!" Applebloom looked horrified.

I tried to comfort her. I smiled and faced her. "I am alright. I'm not dying anytime soon." I assured her. "It would take more than that to put me six feet under. Are you okay?" She nodded in response.

"Bleh! You're so sappy. You going to make me puke." I turned around and I saw Rainbine. "You think that could keep me down!? So think again you fucking idiot!"
Shit.

"Applebloom. Run." I ordered her.

"Who is that?" She asked.

"A bad pony. Run."

"But..."

"RUN! AND DON'T LOOK BACK!" I shouted at her. She flinched and took a few steps back. She then turned around and ran.

"Applepills! Get that filly!" I froze. Applepills? Oh shit. Applepills was the one who knocked me down I guess. She was just standing there as Applebloom ran past. "What the fuck are you doing!? Rainbine shouted. "Do I have to handle everything!?" She then took flight after the filly.

Oh no you don't. "Hey skittles! Forgot about me!?" I dashed towards her and grabbed the back of her head. I then slammed her face into the ground. I then grabbed her tail and tossed her into a tree using my good arm.

Ignore the pain. Ignore the pain. I repeated like a mantra. I need to end this fast.

She then got up and started taking shots with her shotgun. I drew my sword and deflected the incoming bullets as I ran towards her. As I neared her arm morphed into a sword. When did she learn that?

I was about to swing when Applepills attempted to ram into me. I managed to dodge her and I returned my attention to Rainbine. Our blades clashed, her strikes were erratic and rage fueled, I managed to parry and block all of her strikes.

She took flight and fired her minigun at me. She has one!? I took flight also and maneuvered around the bullets. After she ran out of bullets, I flew up to her and our blades clashed again. She took a swing at me and I cut her arm off. "*Boom!* Gah! Grrrrr!" I then flew back. And sheathed my sword.

I raised my left hand and created a large fireball. "Okay last chance. Don't force me to blow you up." I don't like killing but it's me or her. "Please surrender." I pleaded.

She was holding the stump that was once her arm. "Give it your best shot monkey! A little flame isn't going to hurt me!" You asked for it. I froze as I heard voices in my head.

"I was right! You are a monster!"

"H-how could you? "

"P-please... Don't seek revenge..."

"How pitiful. You have the power to destroy mountains but you couldn't save the one you love. Her love for you was delicious by the way."

I gritted my teeth and my hand shook. Don't hesitate Nathan you've killed before, but what has changed?

I feel guilty.

A thousand thoughts rang in my head, my mind was suddenly assaulted by images of all of the sins I committed. "How did you lose your spine? You would rant about what is right and bravery and all of those horseshit." Rainbine went on. I tossed the fireball which narrowly missed her. I-I can't...

"Heh you're pathetic. You're nothing but a coward. Now die!" She dashed over to me and kicked me back to the ground. I was distracted by my thoughts and I fell back to earth. I got up but immediately fell in my knees, I then coughed up blood.

My right shoulder is bleeding and my chest and stomach was damp and warm with blood. My stomach was in agony, I guess I broke a few ribs. Wait where's applepills? I stood up and looked to my right.

"Pills..." Applepills mumbled as she lay down in a small crater. Wait. She got hit? She was covered in soot and her chest slowly went up and down. Other than that she looks fine. Anime, game and cartoon logic. Nuff said.

I stood up and faced Rainbine as she landed near me. "Hah! Not so invincible now eh?." She sneered. "I'm surprised you're still alive, you've gotten too soft for your own good." She grinned manically as she leveled her shotgun at me.

I have an idea!

"Nah I'm not alive. I'm just breathing, bleeding, and trying to find ways to insult you." I replied sarcastically. "Oh! I have a joke you wanna hear it? No? Too bad I'm still telling. Why did the T Rex cross the road!?" I can still win if I trick her into close range combat.

She looked at me with an uninterested expression but still asked. "Why?"

"Because the chicken didn't evolve yet! *Ba dum crash*!" Okay that was horrible. Where did the sound come from? "Geddit!?"

"No." Rainbine deadpanned.

"Man! If you were any slower you would be walking backwards." I said as I slapped my knee.

"What the fuck are you..."

"Are you serious? Wow you actually make snips and snails look smart. It's understandable because you haven't been upgraded in a millennium. But still, my gameboy's processor is faster than yours!"

Its working! Rainbine was steaming... literally! "Why you little pri..."

I cut her off again and continued my verbal assault. "If your IQ was any lower you would trip on it. Also you are the carpenter's dream." I'm not sure if this insult will work. "Because your chest is so flat." I could have sworn I heard glass breaking. She then stared at her chest. Then she glared at me.

Looks like I struck a nerve. "Wait!? So that's true!? Oh man what do you put in your bra!? Grenades!? Is your cup size A minus minus!? HAHAHAHAHAHA! Eh?" I flinched as I looked at Rainbine. She was on fire, literally. It's a miracle she hasn't turned into super mode.

Her eyes were glowing red and she was on fire. Hmmm... Interesting. She then raised her remaining arm and it was surging with power. A high risk move like that? Even if she could hit or kill me she would shut down soon afterwards.

"YOU THINK THAT'S FUNNY YOU FREAKIN MORON!? WE'LL SEE WHO'S LAUGHING WHEN I DANCE ON YOUR GRAVE!!!" She then launched herself at me. I easily dodged her punch and I delivered a strong punch to her stomach. She staggered back and aimed her cannon at me. "SEE YOU IN HELL FUCKER!"

I shoved my sword down the cannon effectively jamming it. "What did you do!?" Rainbine shouted in fear as she stepped back. Her cannon was releasing arcs of electricity it then started to glow. Oh fuck. I put on my shades then started running away from the cyborg. The cannon then exploded in a brilliant light.

Is it just me or some of my sentences sounded dirty?

The blast knocked me into a tree. What is it with me and trees today anyway? As I watched the explosion through the safety of my shades I wondered. Where is my sword? Just right on cue the sword came flying, impaling me. "Gah! Arrrghhh! Why did I even ask!?" I managed to wheeze out. Wow this is a good sword it pierced my armour.

I noticed the sword went through my left chest. Dumb luck. My heart for some reason is on the other side. My vision was getting blurry and my body began to get cold.

As the smoke cleared Rainbine was still standing up. She lost her remaining arm and she was sparking all over. "I w-win *crackle bzzzt* g-game over." Not yet bitch.

I pulled out the sword and slowly stood up. "Gah! I'm a heartless bastard missy!" Her eyes widened but soon narrowed.

Damn I think she lost it. "Die... *Bzzzzt* DIE!" She then ran towards me. Live or die. And I choose live.

With all of the strength I could draw upon. I dashed towards her.
I was about to bring my sword down on her when my blade came in contact with two hovering swords. Oh fuck. I then leapt back. Rainbine looked pissed because of the intervention.

I looked around wildly for a certain pony.

Flying above us was a dark purple alicorn with a long dark blue mane with a red and black streak running through her hair.

*Sigh* Brutalight Sparcake. (Horrible name I know.)

Basically she's Christian Brutal Sniper plus Weaslecake plus Twilight Sparkle.

"Yo Brutalight! What's up!? Oh you're up! Hehe." I think I'm crazy, I'm about to be killed and I can still crack lame jokes. Oh Rainbine shut down just about now. "So here I am. Ready when you are." I took a battle stance. I have no intention of dying tonight.

She summoned her blades to her side and she slowly landed on the ground. Her blades then disappeared. She said nothing so I spoke again. "If your gonna kill me with magic, don't bother wizzard! I will only come back stronger!"

She laughed and summoned a Eyelander in her hand. She looked at the blade and ran a finger along it. "I'm not here to kill you." She said flatly. Wait. What!? "Not now actually. You see Courage..."

"Nathan." I corrected her. Why does she keep on calling me Courage?

"Dont interrupt me." She growled at me. But whatever she's gonna say I feel it is important so I won't annoy the hell out of her. "A certain acquaintance of ours has set a very inconvenient spell on us." Spell? What spell!?

I heard someone snap their fingers and a complex magic circle was revealed on my chest. How did I not feel it!? I then looked at Brutalight. She had the same circle on her chest, I then looked at the two fallen Elements of Insanity, they had the same circle too.

Okay I know only one person err... Draconequus who can explain. "DISCORD!" Speak of devil and he will come.

"Looks like he was right. This way I am never late." A certain Draconequus stated. He was wearing coattails, a monocle, a top hat and he was holding a pocket watch in his lion paw. "Well it looks like you had a little... disagreement. I am glad to see you are fine Nathan." Discord stated as he looked around the area.

"Umm... aside from getting stabbed in the chest, kicked through multiple trees, breaking several bones, losing some of my pride and bleeding to death. I'm pretty fine." I replied sarcastically. "Now explain Discord."

"Well to put it simply if one of the people with that magic circle die all of them die." That son of a bitch... "Yes. Jared did it. No I can't remove it, right now. Unless..."

"No." Me and Brutalight said in unison. Discord is too... High maintenance. Plus, freeing him would make me public enemy number 1. Looks like even Brutalight agrees with me.

I was suddenly enveloped in a lavender magic aura. "There, that will stop the bleeding." Brutalight said as the aura faded. "But this changes nothing. We are still enemies. Temporary truce, until I can remove the circles. All I need to do is remove one and all of the circles are destroyed. After this predicament we're enemies again."

I simply smiled. "Duly noted. Wanna head to Burger Princess?" She just glared at me. "My treat~! No? Suit yourself." Damn I'm getting dizzy. I clutched my head as I felt the world spin.

"Oh you'll be fine Nathan." Discord stated. After a bright flash of light the three ponies disappeared. "Well that was rude." Discord then crossed his arms. "A few ponies are coming here. Ask for the directions to the nearest hospital." Discord said. But his next words were serious though. "Old friend. Don't die, I have so few." Discord being serious is like Celestia giving up cake.

Still a perfect opportunity for a joke. "Who are you and what have you done to Discord!?" I pointed a finger accusingly. "Heh. Take care Discord." I said.

"Okay, thanks!" He said as he held a briefcase with care written on it in bold red letters. "I'm gonna have to leave you so that the story can progress. Tata~!" He then disappeared in a flash. Huh? Well I could only shake my head. He has no respect for the 'Fourth Wall'... If it even exists.

Wait. Damnit! Those bastards left me here!

I stood for a moment and the pain started to flood in. "Gah! Ugghh..." I fell to my knees and clutched my stomach. I can only suppress the pain for so long. My vision started to darken and I felt cold. Damnit! She only stopped the bleeding, she didn't heal my wounds.

I heard shouting in the distance. My vision slowly faded into darkness. All of the pain melted away as I began to lose consciousness. I fell face first into the ground.

The world around me then faded into darkness.

Chapter 4: Monsters or not?

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Chapter 4: Monsters or not?

----POV: Brutalight Sparcake----

Even though I am not at full power I managed to teleport me and my friends to our temporary base. It is simply a cave on the side of a mountain. Let's just say there used to be an occupant. Well... We did have to 'evict' a dragon.

Now, to the matters at hand.

I didn't expect him to be awake, neither did I expect the Spirit of Chaos to pass by. That bastard Jared... I wonder if he's free too.

The plan was simple, find Nathan and kill him while he is vulnerable. But there were so many complications.

I groaned and covered my face with my hooves er... Hands. I had to leave Nathan alone.

Nathan is probably one of the only friends Discord has. They have different goals but they still get along. It's ridiculous! Whenever Courage encountered the Spirit of Chaos they never actually fought against each other, in fact they did a 'yo mama' battle once.

And there is also that spell, a fate sharing glyph that I am not familiar with. I will need to research to dispel the circle. That means killing Courage is double no.

But why didn't Discord mess with us? He would usually pull a prank or annoy the hell out of me. He has the power to juggle the sun and moon without effort but he hasn't messed up Equestria nor has he confronted the princesses. He could have healed Courage...

Oh fuck.

He's not free! He simply came as a Astral Projection! I cannot read his magic level, it's almost like he's an anomaly, so I can never sense him using my magic. But when did he have a spirit walking ability? What's next!? Dream walking!? Driving ponies nuts with illogical behavior and fucking reality is enough!

"AAAAAARRRGGGHH! That bastard!" I stood up and fired a beam of magic that landed Celestia knows where.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
somewhere else
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Crapcrapcrapcrap. Crap!" Derpigun shouted as she managed to dodge the hungry maws of the Hydra. "Eat this!" Her hand morphed into a mini gun, she then let out a stream of bullets.

The Hydra was kept at bay by the impressive firepower, it roared in pain as the hydra was shredded by lead. *Click* "Huh?" Derpigun then banged the mini gun with her other hand. She then aimed again at the Hydra. *ClickClickClick*

"Hehehehe..." The hydra then faced derpigun. "Muffin?" Derpigun pulled out a muffin from wherever and offered it to the hydra.

All of the Hydra's heads then reared back then roared. "Thought so. Ahhhhhhhhh!" She then flew away as the hydra chased her. She looked back as she took flight and bumped into a tree. "(Ow.)" She mumbled.

The hydra was about to swallow derpigun whole.

A spell landed on the dimwitted hydra and it was vaporized. The blast was so great that derpigun got sent a good distance.

"Ahhhhhhh! *Crash*" Derpigun was then embedded on one of the walls of the Castle of the Two Sisters. "(I don't know what went wrong.)" She mumbled.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Back to Brutalight
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My friends were suprised by my sudden outburst but soon returned to what they were doing.

I rubbed my temples and sat down. Getting upset won't solve anything, I have to stay calm. "Ugghh my head..." I can't fire massive spells without getting a migraine. That teleport a while ago took a lot out of me. It might take weeks before I completely recover from imprisonment.

Celestia is a fool anyway, she'll probably send the elements after Courage first, but I doubt that Celestia will immediately imprison him.

Courage could have killed Rainbine and Applepills but why hasn't he? He didn't know about the magic circle...

This is frustrating!

I couldn't kill that idiot and I also almost had me and my friends killed. If Discord didn't warn me we would all be in Tartarus right now.

"Uggghhh..." I groaned and ran my hands down my face. I glanced at each of my friends.

Pinkis, her coat is a dark shade of pink and her mane is red. She is wearing a red skirt and a blood stained white T-shirt. She is sleeping on top of the dragon we killed. She is cuddling the dragon's skull and gnawing one of its bones in her sleep.

Rainbine was lying on the ground, we managed to fix her but she hasn't woken up yet.

Rarifruit. She has a elegantly styled mane that is light violet with two darker colored streaks running through along with her alabaster coat. Where is her hat? She is currently picking out jewelry from the dragon's hoard.

Applepills on the other hand was awake and trying to open a bunch of painkillers without crushing the bottle. "Aw crap!" Applepills swore as she failed to open the bottle. Shouldn't it be easier?

Fluttershout. Red mane yellow coat. One of her eyes are red the other is blue. She's wearing a red and white stripped dress and red high heels along with a similarly striped top hat. She was simply looking bored.

Fluttershout went up to Applepills and said with a roll of her eyes... "Ugh. You're so pathetic, let me open it." Applepills simply glared at Fluttershout. Fluttershout crossed her arms and used the stare on her. Applepills flinched and begrudgingly gave the bottle.

Fluttershout opened it with a pop. She was about to hand the pills over, when Applepills lunged at her for the pills. "MY PRECIOUS!"

"Hey!" Fluttershout shouted. I could only facehoof... Or facepalm? Applepills was now on top of Fluttershout. I groaned as I ran my hands Down my face. "Brutalight? A little help here?" Fluttershout asked.

Applepills was laughing maniacally while holding the bottle in her hands. "My precious... No one's going to take you away from me... No... No... Yes I understand Yes... Yes..." She then dumped the contents into her mouth.

"Rarifruit. Please help, get Applepills off Fluttershout." I asked Rarifruit as I closed my eyes while rubbing my temples.

Rarifruit simply ignored me as she was brushing her mane. I opened my eyes and glared at her. A few minutes later she put aside the mirror. "Somepony was talking darling?" I simply pointed at Fluttershout.

I was about to say something when Fluttershout cut me off. "Oh Rarifruit no one's talking! We were just opening our mouths and making noise!" Fluttershout said with heavy sarcasm. "Just get me out of here!" She wailed.

Rarifruit slid down the pile of treasure and went up to Fluttershout. "Oh hush. You shouldn't have disturbed her. You know some of us can't control our urges." Rarifruit stated while looking at her fingernails.

Fluttershout smirked. "Oh look there's a cute fancy pink hat." Fluttershout said with a roll of her eyes.

"Where!? Where!? Mine!" Fluttershout started snickering at her. Rarifruit frowned and rolled her eyes. "Yes hilarious." How can Pinkis sleep through all this noise? "I hope you enjoy it down there dear." Rarifruit countered with a smirk.

Can't they shut up!? I'm trying to think here! I have to wait for Rainbine before discuss our plans. "Oh of course Rarifruit, I'm enjoying myself." Fluttershout snapped back. Applepills was still oblivious to what was happening around her... "And I'm sure you will enjoy when I scream~!"

Oh fuck.

Ear rape. A supersonic attack that can be heard from miles away. I got attacked by a freak named Assnick once. Learned from there supersonic attacks aren't pleasant.

Pinkis was still sleeping. But Applepills froze and dropped her pills. Rarifruit looked scared. "Your kidding. Your kidding... Right?" Rarifruit asked nervously.

Fluttershout closed her eyes and smiled. "I'm gonna scream~!" She said happily.

"No no no no. Please don't." Rarifruit begged.

"You better get her off me and apologise. I really mean it!" This going to get ugly. Applepills stuck two bottles in her ears and smiled.

Fluttershout closed her eyes, inhaled and was about to unleash her Ear Rape.. Argh! Why am I the only mature one!? "That's enough!" I shouted at them. I stood up and flared my wings. Pinkis simply stirred, Rainbine twitched, the rest froze.

"Rarifruit just help Fluttershout!" I shouted out.

Rarifruit's horn and gauntlet of greed glowed purple. A giant hand made of magic scooped up Applepills and dropped her on the ground. "Hey!" Applepills glared at Rarifruit for a moment then turned her attention back to her pills.

"So Brutalight, what are we going to do now?" Fluttershout asked as she got up.

"Darling, I say that I'm interested in this plan of yours." Rarifruit added.

"Wake Pinkis up soon. We are going to discuss our plan soon." I told them.

"How about Rainbine?" Applepills asked as she diverted her attention from her pills for a moment.

Pinkis opened her eyes and groaned. "*Yawn." Morning guys... Or night..." She then crawled over to me while making her signature shotgun cocking sound. She then stood beside me. "Brutalight, I'll wake Rainbine up." She was listening?

"You were listening?" I asked her.

"Yeah. Just gimme a sec I got this. Applepills! Can you come over here!?" Pinkis asked our drug addicted friend. Applepills looked at me and I nodded. She groaned and went over to Pinkis. Pinkis nodded and Applepills nodded back. Pinkis then shouted in Rainbine's ear. "THAT IDIOT NATHAN IS CHALLENGING YOU!"

Rainbine suddenly came to life. "WHERE IS HE!? LET ME AT HIM! LEMME AT HIM!" She then bolted off. Applepills grabbed the cyborg's tail and slammed her into the ground.

"Ugghh..." Rainbine groaned as she picked herself up. "What was that for!" She then grabbed Applepills by her jacket.

"You were lazying around! Plus once you got up you were going to get yourself killed!" Applepills answered. "All of us killed! Or do I have to knock it into that skull of yours!"

"In your dreams. I'm 120% cooler than you! I can take you on anytime." Rainbine the glowed and struck a pose and Applepills scoffed.

They glared at each other so intense, that it looked like lightning shot out of their eyes and clashed. Rainbine lunged herself at Applepills and they fought in a cartoonish cloud of smoke.

After a while Fluttershout stopped them. "I'm tired. Of. Your fucking! SHIT!" Fluttershout... Shouted. Where does the lightning come from? "We're doing nothing! Instead we bicker here and waste our fucking time!"

The two bickering ponies stopped fighting and was strucked by terror, Rarifruit and Pinkis hugged each other in fear.

"Rainbine." The cyborg got up and gave her attention to me. "You can't kill Courage."

"WHAT!" Rainbine exclaimed. This is going to be a long explanation...

+-Later On-+

After explaining to Rainbine the spell Jared cast on us, we sat down and prepared to discuss our plans.

"That bastard! When I get my hooves on him he's going to be in a world of hurt!" Rainbine cursed as she punched the ground. "So what are we going to do know!?" She asked as she threw her arms up.

"We can deal with Courage later. We need to take off the glyph soon. I'd doubt that he could kill himself but if he gets caught again we're all in the same boat." I stated.

"Can't you just, I don't know, magic it away?" Rainbine asked.

"Of course not darling. Me and Brutalight tried to, it's not that easy." Rarifruit said with a frown.

"That's why I'm sending you and Applepills to the archives in Canterlot once Rarifruit regains all of her magic." I told her

"Pardon? Why me?"

"Mwa? I don't know Brutalight... It might take a while before I can pull this off..."

"Rarifruit can slip in undetected, while you, Applepills, are the muscle if things go wrong. Our priority is to find a spell that can dispell the glyph. Without alerting the guards and without getting caught. Secondary goals include killing Jared or one of the princesses, acquiring Jared's gauntlet, and an anti mind control spell." I stated.

"An why won't you go Brutalight?" Applepills asked.

"Because the princesses might sense me, among us all I have the most magic power." I explained. "Rainbine and Pinkis aren't exactly stealthy, while Fluttershout's ability makes a huge racket."

"Soooo... Brutalight." I looked at Rainbine who raised her hand. "Do you know... A spell... That can give me larger boobs?" What. Those squishy things on humans and on our chest?

All of us just stared at her. "What does... Boobs... Have to do with our plan to take over Equestria?" I slowly asked. "And more importantly... Why?" This is ridiculous.

"All of you have big ones! My chest is flat!" She emphasized her point by pulling two grenades out of her armor. "Well... I like to..." Rainbine began. "Well you know... It feels good when I grope them. I can't exactly grope it if it's flat." She explained. Her wings the popped with a audible pomf while she was smiling.

Fluttershout sighed, Pinkis and Applepills Snickered, Rarifruit shook her head, and I facepalmed.

"Is that all?" I mumbled.

"Yep."

"Who else have any concerns?" I asked my friends. Fluttershout raised her hand. "Yes, Fluttershout?"

"Why won't we try and bring Nathan to our side?" Fluttershout offered.

"I'm not working with him!" Rainbine exclaimed.

I held my chin in thought. If we could bring him to our side... He does have a grudge against Celestia. His power rivals Celestia's and Luna's combined. But I wonder, what can we do to sway him...

"We could try... But it will not be easy. Do you think you can convince him Fluttershout?" I asked the once timid pegasus.

She was humming to herself, I coughed and she snapped out of whatever she was thinking about. "Oh! Uh yeah I'll try..." She then stared off into the distance and continued humming.

"But it is not likely that he will join us. We need to identity his weaknesses." I said.
Applepills raised her hand. "His family maker is a weak spot." She then swallowed a handful of pills. Earning snickers from Pinkis.

"Darling that is common knowledge. But still effective." Rarifruit mused.

I then turned to face Rainbine. "Rainbine. Did you see any other weakness of any sort while fighting him?" I asked her.

She thought for a while before answering. "Nah. I hate to admit it but, that guy is near invisible. I stabbed him in the chest and shot him several times!" I groaned and thought 'No one is invincible. He has to have some sort of weakness.' As looked at the ground.

"But I did notice a few odd things." Like what? I looked at the cyborg. "He was wearing his shades when we fought earlier this morning. I never saw him take off his shades, but he took them off when we fought at night."

"And what's so odd about that?" Pinkis asked.

"I mean like duh. Who wears shades at night?" Fluttershout asked.

"Probably just his style darling." Rarifruit suggested. "Like me and Fluttershout, we don't take off our hats even if we sleep." Hmm... I don't think so.

"Maybe he inhales moondust or licks salt." Applepills offered. We all looked at our resident addict. "Well... Ponies who lick salt have redder eyes. Moondust on the other hand has the same effect but it works with other races." She then swallowed a another mouthful of pills.

"Nah I saw his eyes. They were yellow and had cat like irises." Rainbine answered. Cat like eyes? Humans aren't nocturnal, but a human can't take that much punishment either.

"Pray tell darling, when did you manage to look past your ego and actually notice something else?" Rarifruit asked with a smirk.

"Pegasi do have good eyesight and better reflexes, we also have photographic memory." All of us could only stare at her. "What! I know stuff too! Like how awesome I am!" She flew up and puffed her chest.

"We cannot face him head on we need allies." I held my chin in thought. "I wonder who can aid us right now..." I asked to no one in particular.

"Sombra?" Pinkis asked.

"Braindead." I answered.

"Tirek?" Rarifruit suggested.

"That double crossing bastard? No!"

"One of the other demons from Tartarus?" Rainbine asked.

"To risky." I answered.

"How about... Discord?" Fluttershout suggested.

"Hmm... He's an ideal candidate but he is friends with Courage. He would aid us but he wouldn't fight Courage directly." Probably. Plus he's not free.

"Chrysalis?" Applepills suggested. "What? I think she's a darn good candidate."

Yes, she's desperate and she has a bone to pick with Courage. "Perfect! The only problem is that we don't know where her hive is exactly." I said.

"I'll scout the Badlands. It can't be that hard." Rainbine offered.

"Ok. We will move in a few weeks time. We need to recover first. We will enlist the help of Chrysalis and Discord, I will discus the intricacies of my plan then." I then stood up and walked towards the mouth of the cave.

"The game has begun."

"Uhh... Brutalight?"

I turned around and face Fluttershout. "Yes Fluttershout?"

"Where is... Derpigun?"

"Crap."

---POV: NATHAN---

0o0o0o0o0

Am I dead?

Nope still alive...

I looked around and I was floating in the darkness.

I can't see a thing.

As right on cue I saw a light. I looked around and I saw that the darkness has been replaced by water. Instinctively I began to swim towards the light. As I neared the light it grew brighter and brighter.

I reached out and I was started to be pulled back to the inky depths. I struggled and some unseen force pulled back. The more I struggled the faster I was pulled.

I closed my eyes and let go.

As I opened my eyes I was in a field. Green grass everywhere and beautiful flowers, the sun cast a beautiful golden sunset which seemed to warm my soul.

I lay down and plucked a flower. I brought it to my nose and sniffed its wonderful aroma. The flower suddenly began to wither, it then was blown away by the wind as dust.

The flora around me began to wither. I stood up and looked around in panic as the scenery became twisted.

The stars came out along with the moon. The moon slowly became red as it was poisoned. I looked at the red moon in horror.

"What's wrong?"

I turned around and I was faced by Nightmare Moon herself.

"I thought thou hast loved our night. This is merely an improvement." She then gestured to the moon.

"Luna I..."

"SILENCE! Thou hast been aware of our pain, our suffering! Yet you did not take action! We are Princess Luna no more! For I am Nightmare Moon!"

"Luna I tried..."

"You tried? Your men are naught but corpses. They believed in you!" The hundreds of ghost surrounded us.

"Yes, it seems you haven't tried enough." A grey stallion clad in armour. His horn was crimson and curved, he wore a cape that was blood red.

"Sombra." I growled.

"Yes you tried. You tried and everything crumbled around you. You didn't just fail Luna or your men, you failed her too." As he spoke a statue appeared, a princess, frozen in stone in a expression of horror.

Princess Amour Platinum.

Sombra then struck the statue and it shattered into a million pieces. Forever broken.

Another voice then rang out. "You thought you could be a hero, you lived long enough to be the villain. You desired freedom yet you were shackled. You swore to uphold justice, and it chose to forsake you!" Chrysalis.

She then continued. "Now tell me. Who are you!" A mirror appeared in front of me.

I looked at my reflection and a boy stared at me. Crying yet not comforted. "Are you this boy? A helpless child? No!"

The reflection then shifted into a teenager. Not quite a boy but neither a man. "Is this you? A juvenile, who dreamed of another world? No!"

The image shifted again into a young man, clad in gold and purple armour, with crimson hair and white wings. "Is this you? A hero, a man who upholds justice, who smites the wicked? No!"

"This is you!" The image was of the same man. He was wearing a torn coat and his armor was caked in his own blood and the blood of his enemies. He was grinning widely, smiling at the carnage he caused. "This you! You are a monster! No different than what you swore to destroy!"

"THIS IS YOUR DESTINY!" The there declared at the same time.

"No... No." I stepped back. This isn't who I am. "No! NOOOOOO!" I lunged forward and shattered the mirror.

"That is who you are!" They shouted.

"You're wrong... YOU'RE WRONG!" I drew my sword and ran towards them.

They suddenly disappeared. I looked around wildly for them. "I am not a monster!" I shouted out. The world around me distorted again and the background shifted into Tartarus.

I looked around and I was standing on topbof a mountain of corpses. "No... Wake up Nathan! It's just a dream. It's just a dream." I repeated like a mantra.

"It may be a dream." Celestia suddenly appeared in front of me. "I didn't know monsters had nightmares. It would seem I was too kind to imprison you in stone." Celestia doesn't talk like this. I'll wake up soon. I don't want this. No. I am not a monster!

"You should rot in hell along with all the people you have slain. I sentence you to eternal torment!" She then kicked me, I tumbled down the mountain of dead bodies, and landed into a pool of blood.

As I tried to get up, arms wrapped around me. I managed to get up and escape their grip, bodies then started to get up and walk towards me. "Stay back!" I shouted as I hacked and slashed through the undead horde.

Arms sprouted from the pool and wrapped around my legs. I struggled but it was futile, I was rooted in place. The arms then pulled me down into the depths.

"No! No no no no! Please don't! I don't want to die!" I wailed as the bodies wrapped around me as I sunk into the pool of blood. I reached out my hand in desperation.

I'm scarred.

"BEGONE FOUL IMAGES!" A voice rang out and the scene was replaced by a sea of stars.

"L-luna?"

Chapter 5: Visitors are overrated...

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Chapter 5: Visitors are overrated...

---POV: NATHAN---

0o0o0o0o0

"L-luna"

Before me stood Luna herself, she was wearing a blue toga along with her royal regalia. Her ethereal mane flowed in a nonexistent breeze, her mane is like a sea of stars.

"Nathan, it is a pleasure to see you again." She said as she smiled. I began to sniff and rub my eyes. "Thou aren't happy to see us?" She tilted her head and frowned.

"Wooooonaaaa~!" I then ran towards her. She flinched and her eyes widened. "I mished uuuuuuu!" I then jumped. She stepped aside and I hit something. "Ow!"

She stood over me and giggled. Man that's so kawaii. "I conclude that thou hast missed us." This a dream... Why does it hurt?

I rubbed my head and looked around. The space field thingy place was replaced by a hill under the beauty of a full moon. I bumped into a tree? I then lay down and rested against the gnarled oak. I gestured to her to sit down beside me.

We sat there which seemed like hours. I decided to break the silence. "Soooo... How are you Luna?" I inquired.

"We have some difficulty in adjusting to these modern times, but we take delight in these so called video games!" Ow my ears our ringing. Wait. Gamer Luna? "Me and Tia have been reconciled and are putting what has been behind us!" It's like Luna has a loudspeaker in her chest.

"Please lower your voice a bit..." I asked Luna while scratching my head.

"Oh. We apologize for that, we were merely enthusiastic in meeting you." That's... Better...

"Oh I'm fine. Just some nightmares." I lied to Luna.

She didn't look convinced though. "In our absence... What hast transpired?" I looked away. "Please tell me." I returned my gaze to Luna. She looked concerned. "We haven't seen you at the palace and Tia refuses to talk about you."

I sighed and took of my shades. "I got imprisoned in stone, Clover got killed, Starswirl disappeared. Stuff happened." My usual cheery tone slipped into a depressed tone.

"Oh. You have my sincerest apologies..." Here it comes. "Wait. What happened!" Ow.

"Yeah I know, I wanted to be roomies with you on the moon, why didn't Molly send me to the moon?" I tried to divert the topic, I don't want to talk about it, please don't press Luna. "I think I reserved a seat on the moon, instead I got a place in the gardens."

I would act as if everything is fine even when it's not. I would joke and encourage my men to fight. Heck, I was referred to by Princess Platinum once as a flaming hairless monkey jester.

I don't want to break down in front of other people, I don't need pity.

"Do not jest! Tell us!" She really has a temper at times. "Please..."

"*Sigh* Okay fine... I fucked up, lost control, became a genocidal maniac. Your happy?" I don't have a long patience either.

"I do not believe it!" Luna stood up. "You are not a pony who would do meaningless slaughter!"

"It was not meaningless, the changelings broke the treaty and killed many. Tia didn't believe me, she believed that I was blinded by rage and went bloodthirsty. But it is not like that, I will tell you everything soon but not now."

"Nathan..." She began. And I shook my head. "I understand. But I shall plead to our sister your case." What's with the royal 'we' and 'our'?

"Luna..." It's hard to stop her once she gets going.

"A thousand years is enough punishment for your crimes." For me it isn't but that is not the point.

"Luna, wait I'm..." Damnit Luna, stop cutting me off!

"The Elements have new bearers, don't worry they shall set you free, I will be able to convince our sister." Ok that's enough.

"Luna!" I shouted at her.

"Yes?"

"I'm already free." I told her.

"Huzzah! Why hast thou hasn't informed us!" I stood up and stepped back.

"Well..." I scratched my head and shifted uncomfortably. "Celestia doesn't know."

"...."

"...." Where does the chirping of crickets come from anyway? I should be called bringer of awkward situations.

"Thou hast escaped!?" She shouted.

"Accidentally actually..." I said as I held my chin.

"But still, thou needs to converse with our sister!" Volume... I don't wanna talk to sunbut right now.

"No. Maybe soon but not now. Don't tell Tia yet." I need some more time. "I have mixed feelings about her right now. I would not want to 'accidentally' blow her up." I marked accidentally with air quotes. "Besides... I don't have a script." I joked.

"We... I understand but I will have to tell her eventually." Her tone then lightened. "A script? Thou art serious?" She asked jokingly.

I put my hands on my hip and declared... "Behind every great man, is a great secretary who writes his speeches!"

She giggled but then went serious again. "Where art thou hidest?" She isn't going to like this.

"Ummm... I ended up in a hospital." I sheepishly offered. I guess...

I covered my ears. "HOW!? And more importantly... WHOM DO WE HAST TO SMITE!?" My poor ears.

"No one no one!" I said quickly as I waved my hands in dismissal. She glared at me. "... The Elements of... Insanity..." My voice became tiny as I said those words.

Her eyes widened. "I'll handle them, please don't tell her about me and the EoI yet. Just secure Jared's gauntlet and be prepared, increasing security will accomplish nothing."

"Where are they!? I shall smite them! They shall face my wrath!" She declared.

"Actually... You can't." She then looked at me with the 'are you serious' look.

"THOU OF ALL PEOPLE DOUBT OUR COMBAT PROWESS! We have trained on the moon for..." I then covered her mouth with my hand. If it was anyone else they would lose a hand.

"About that... I have a perfect explanation..."

I then proceeded to tell Luna how I escaped leaving out Discord. Up to my encounter with 3 of the elements, the discovery of the magic circle and our temporary truce.

"That fiend! He is craftier than we once thought." She then frowned in thought.

"Now Luna don't think about it.Boop!" I then booped her, her muzzle scrunched, she then pouted. Enough with the pouts. "If you think so much you will look old."

"Who art calling old! We are as beautiful, nay, more beautiful than the night sky and our beauty is rare and is more precious than any gem." Did Luna get Rd's ego? "You should be humbled in our presence!" She declared playfully.

"Oh my sincerest apologies." And I did an exaggerated bow. "Your majesty. Wait a minute! Where is my therapy session!?" I raised my hands in exaggeration. "I demand a refund!"

This earned another giggle from her. "You have not settled your account yet." But she then went serious. "You might never obtain forgiveness from the people you've wronged." I looked down as she spoke. "Nathan look at me. You may throw away your life in servitude of others and commit yourself to good deeds, or be punished for your crimes and only hope it is enough." Something doesn't click with that advice...

"Yep, coming from Madame Luna, here is advice from the stars but our destiny is on our own hands." For some reason her advice didn't help me but I appreciate it. "But in all seriousness. Thank you." I then hugged her. She stiffened but soon returned the hug.

We then broke the hug. "You were there for me, I will be here for you also." A door than appeared behind her. "I shall take my leave now, my subjects need me." She declared.

"Luna wait." I stopped her. "Am I... A monster?"

Luna looked at me with a pitying expression and said, "Thou feel guilty of thy actions?" She asked me.

I looked down and then after a while I nodded.

"Thou hast a consciousness." She then pointed to my chest. "Thou hast a heart that cares for others. As long as thou care about others, you're still a pony... Or human." I then looked at her.

"Thank you Luna... And I'm sorry..." I knew it was going to happen. Yet I couldn't stop it.

"No. I'm sorry. Goodbye Nathan, may the stars guide you and the moon light your path." She then opened the door and disappeared to another part of the dreamscape.

"Bye bye wooooona! Visit in person sometime after things have settled!" I called out to her before she completely disappeared.

I was then left alone.

The world in my dream faded as a bright light blinded me.

0o0o0o0o0

Beep

Yep I'm in the hospital. I tuned out the beeping of the monitor and groaned. My body feels sore... Pain is a good thing, at least I know I'm still alive.

I opened my eyes... "HOLY CRAP MY EYES!" ...and immediately closed my eyes. My eyes felt like they were burning. I thrashed around but was held down by the restraints and the pain in my abdomen.

"Sir please calm down!" What I could assume is a female nurse. I did as she said and I calmed down.

"Can you... Please get my shades?" I assumed she was confused. I heard the clopping of hooves and the opening and closing of the door. After a few moments she returned and she handed my shades. I put it on and I took a look at my surroundings.

I was in a hospital gown and striped of my belongings. The nurse is white earth pony with a pink mane done in a cute bun. "I am Nurse Redheart. A pony rushed you to the hospital late at night. Are you... Feeling better?"

"Nurse Redheart... Am I... Dead?" I asked. She looked confused. "Just ask 'why'." I told her.

"...Why?" She asked slowly.

"Because you look like an angel." Boom! The moves! I guess I hit my head too hard, I just woke up and I'm flirting with the first girl I see.

She giggled then spoke. "Sorry sir I already have a coltfriend." She shook her head and smiled while scribbling something down. "Patient shows signs of suffering from a concussion." She mumbled.

"So... Where my stuff?" I asked Nurse Redheart.

"Y-your clothes were covered in blood so we washed them. I placed the rest of your belongings are on the bedside table." She then gestured to the table at my right. "You were lucky. If nopony brought you to the hospital you would have bled to death." That bad?

"Can you... Please get my clothes?" I asked the nurse.

After wearing my pants and T-shirt. (with some pain and difficulty.) I hung my coat on the rack. My armor and sword was confiscated. I then had some breakfast. They concluded I was omnivorous and they brought me breakfast- a raw squirrel, some kind of unidentifiable mush and a glass of water.

I know that griffons eat meat raw most of the time, but come on! I didn't touch the squirrel, I ate the mush and drank the water.

The doctor came in soon after and told me that I have to stay in the hospital for a few weeks. He also said I was lucky that somepony brought me to the hospital. I would have bled to death.

He said I broke a few ribs and I am fortunate that my vital organs were not pierced, my right shoulder is dislocated and I have a concussion.

He also asked me where I got so many scars, I said I was a soldier, he commented that I look like the athletic type. He also took notes on my anatomy and the like.

And now I'm doing nothing.

I reached into my pouch and I pulled out my cellphone. The smartphone wasn't working, maybe I should have asked Discord to give me unlimited battery. I then sighed and put it back in the pouch.

I then froze as my hand touched something else. Pulled it out and frowned. A trinket. The Equestrian Badge of Honour. Two alicorns flew in circles, one of the moon and one of the sun. I remember what Tia said.

'The Equestrian Badge of Honour is a medal gifted to our bravest soldiers. It is also the highest honour a soldier can receive.'

I felt sick. Like I wanted to toss the damn trinket out of the window. I deserved it once but not anymore.

I was about to get up and chuck the damn thing out of the window when I was interrupted by a knock to the door.

Nurse Redheart came in informed me that I have visitors. I told her to just let whoever they are in.

4 mares entered the room. Rarity, Twilight Sparkle, Rainbow Dash and Applejack. Where is Pinkie and Fluttershy?

Rarity eyed my current attire, probably thinking of a way to make me fabulous. I couldn't read Applejack's expression (hmm... She's good.). RD was alert, like she would jump on me if I tried anything. Twilight looked... Excited... She was holding a quill and parchment.

RD then visibly relaxed. "Uhh... Twi, is it awake?" I am slightly offended.

"He." Applejack corrected. "Applebloom said he got beat up protecting her. Show some respect." Applejack hissed.

Rainbow walked up to the bed and snapped her fingers in front of my face. "Helloooo!" Wow. So mature. I rolled my eyes.

"Rainbow Dash! What are you doing." Rarity whispered.

"Waking him up, duh." Hehehe, she then started to make funny faces. If Jared was in my place RD would have no head left.

"Rainbow! We don't know what he's capable of!" Twily hissed.

"I-I don't think you should do that..." A timid voice came from behind Applejack. "Um.. That is if you don't mind... What if he gets angry..." Applejack stepped aside to reveal a shaking fluttershy.

"I can take him on anyways..." She said dismissively. Just a little closer... She then leaned forward. "Wow he sleeps..."

"Boop!" I booped her muzzle.

"Wah!" She then fell back on her rump.

"Hahahahaha! Oh that's gold." I then stretched my arms. "Ahhh... Owowowow!" Fuck! My right shoulder!" I pulled down the afflicted appendage and rubbed my right shoulder.

"Why you little..." Bring it on skittles!

"Rainbow that's enough." Twilight said firmly. RD got up and simply glared at me. Before Twilight. "Uhh.. Sir? Are you okay?" Sir!? I'm 22! Or 1537 years old...

"Yeah. I'm only twenty two. Oh! Where are my manners?" I said as I clapped my hands together. "My name is Nathaniel A. Garcia, at your service. It is a pleasure to meet you all."

Twilight stepped forward and introduced herself. "My name Twilight Sparkle. This here is Rainbow Dash." She gestured to the cyan pegasus who merely snorted. "Umm... Hehehe." The lavender unicorn laughed nervously.

Rarity introduced herself next. "My name is Rarity, pleasure to meet you Nathaniel." Marshmallow! Nah. She'd go Kung-Fu-Rarity on me if that thought escaped my lips.

She held out her hand. "The pleasure is mine, to meet such a Rarity." I said as I took her hand and kissed it.

"Oh my such a gentlecolt." She said as she pulled back.

"And mah name's Applejack. Thanks for saving mah sister." She held out her hand and I shook it.

"Actually it's kinda like you saved my life." I said while scratching the back of my head.

"Ah wouldn't leave a pony in need." She paused for a few moments as she connected the dots. "Say... How did ya know it was me?" Crap.

Making Excuse...

"Applebloom said that she would get in trouble with her older sister. I merely assumed and put two and two together." That and a population of warlike hairless monkeys watch a TV show based on your lives.

She looked at me for a few moments before nodding. "Uh huh... If ya say so." Damn, I think she's a walking lie detector.

"I-I'm fluttershy..." She said weakly.

"It's nice to meet you Fluttershy." I told the timid pegasus. All of the others stared at me. "What?"

"You... Heard her?" Twilight asked.

No I already know her name because I am a Technicolor Equine Enthusiast. "Yeah, why?" The truth is, I actually heard her. Twilight then began to scribble notes furiously.

"So... You like animals Fluttershy?" I asked the butter yellow pegasus.

She immediately beamed at the question. "Oh yes I love animals. How did you guess?" Like just right on cue a pissed looking bunny came out of her mane. "Oh! This here is Angel bunny." She said as she showed me Angel. "Say hello Angel."

The bunny then hopped off her hands and walked up my chest. He looked me up and down like he was sizing me up. He held his chin in thought then he offered his hand, I shook his hand with my index finger. He then turned to fluttershy and lifted a thumbs up he the scurried up fluttershy's arm and returned to her mane.

That was... Awkward. But not the most awkward I've experienced. "Oh. He likes you." Fluttershy said while smiling. In all honestly I want to punt Angel bunny like a soccer ball.

"Sooo... Nathan? Can I ask you a few questions?" Twilight asked.

"Can it be when I get out of the Hospital?" She then pouted, please enough with the pouts! "If you can wait, I will tell you everything I know." I am going to regret this someday. "And I will teach you magic in exchange for magic."

Her eyes then shined. "Really!? But what kind of magic you can do?" Great. Her eyes then sparkled with curiosity along with a smile. I really need to discipline myself. I give in too easily.

"Sure."A demonstration, hope I don't set of the l sprinklers. "I suggest you stand back." The 5 mares the stepped back. I lifted my hand and set it ablaze. "I can create and manipulate esoteric flames." They all stared in awe as I made the flame dance around my hand.

The flame then turned purple. "I can also manipulate the properties of fire." The flame turned into a hand, I then grabbed the piece of parchment Twilight was holding with my flame.

Control takes more out of me than medium sized fireballs. I then folded the paper with my flame. "Doesn't burn objects..." I gave the stunned Twilight the parchment back. "...and can be as solid as a rock." I then blasted the wall, a small crater appeared where I fired.

"Whoa."

"Eep!"

"Wow!"

"That's awesome!"

"...."

Applejack was shocked, and Rarity and RD was impressed, Fluttershy hid behind the cowpony and Twilight was stunned. Oh fuck. I think I broke her.

"Umm... I think I broke her..." I said.

"She'll... Be alright darling. I think..." That's really convincing Rarity.

"H-how did you do that? It's..." Twilight then went on a rant like it supposed to be impossible, and I broke many laws of science and magic and demanding an explanation. Okaaaaaay... This is frightening.

"Twilight." I tried to cut her off.

She continued her ramble of magic theories and this and that.

"Twilight."

It's actually kind of cute and frightening at the same time... More frightening though.

"Snap out of it!" I shouted at her.

"Huh? Oh I'm so sorry I got carried away!" She sheepishly said while blushing. I'm not the only one who agrees with that. I thought as I looked at the other mares.

"Nah. That's just fine. Just don't..."

"Hiya!" An energetic voice said. My vision was then filled with pink and blue.

"WHOA!" Holy crap! Where the fuck did she come from!? Oh wait, it's just Pinkie Pie... I thought I got used to getting heart attacks from Suprise.

"Pinkamena Diane Pie! Oh I'm so sorry darling, she gets carried away sometimes." Yeah... Sometimes...

"Hi! My name is Pinkamena Diane Pie but you can call me Pinkie, all of my friends do! Do you like parties!? Do you like cake!? Everybody likes cake!"

She then gasped and grabbed me by the shoulders and began to shake me. "Oh my gosh! You're new here! That means you have no friends! And if you have no friends..." Oh fuck my ribs! My shoulder!

"Owowowow!"

"Pinkie! Your hurting him!" Twilight shouted. The pink mare then let go and stepped back.

"Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry, are you okay!" The hyperactive mare apologized and her mane went down a bit.

It hurts... "I like cake. I like parties. My name is Nathaniel A. Garcia. I'm perfectly fine." I managed to groan out with a thumbs up. Damn that hurt... Earth ponies and their strength... I then turned to Twilight who was just hit by realization.

"Wait. How? How did... She was... But... Huh?" Twilight.exe has stopped working. Hehehe, kinda like that. Pity I didn't master the sound altering spell.

"Don't sweat it Twilight. She's just..." Rainbow stated.

"...being Pinkie Pie." I finished for her. The rainbow maned pegasus just stared at me in shock. The words plucked out of her mouth.

"How did you know that?" The pegasus demanded.

"Magic!" I said with a large grin. I'm a brony, so of course I know. "You know magicians? I can read minds." She just raised her eyebrow. "Okay, I can't read minds your just predictable." She scowled at that.

As she opened her mouth again Pinkie interrupted her. "Oh! You can read minds!? Do me! Do me!" She said while bouncing up and down. Didn't I just say I can't read minds?

I'll do a wild guess anyway. "You want to throw me a party because I'm new and you want to be my friend. And you want me to meet your friend Lyra because she's been telling you about humans."

She stopped bouncing for a few minutes and put a finger to her chin in thought. She then nodded rapidly and smiled. "Yeperoni! Your good..." She then paused. "Wait a minute! Did you read the script?" Pinkie demanded. Script? Pinkie is a fourth wall breaker, but this is real.

"Script?" I asked anyways.

"Nevermind! Oh! Igottagonowseeyoulaterguysbye!" She then disappeared in a puff of pink smoke. Probably to plan or something.

I looked over to the mane six (minus one). All of whom just blinked. I guess they're not used to her antics yet.

"She was nice, a tiny bit hyperactive but nice." I said truthfully. What? It's my honest opinion! "So..."

I stopped what I was about to say as I felt the glyph on my chest throb. I can only guess they are trying to remove the seal. Damn they should be more careful, we are all going to Tartarus at this rate. I held my chest and groaned.

This drawed looks of concern from the 5 mares. "Oh. Are you okay?" The timid pegasus asked.

"I think I just need some... Ughh... Rest." What the hell is Brutalight doing? Is she trying to get us killed? I gritted my teeth and clutched my chest.

"Come on y'all, you heard im. He needs his rest, thanks again sir." I'm only 22... Sorta. Applejack then led the mares outside. All showed worried glances except RD who was still glaring at me.

I only spoke to a few people during the millennium. Discord, random passing souls, lost kids, and sometimes the seasoned explorer. Heck, I even met Daring Do a few months back. She wasn't really the chatty type.

Even though I was excited for new company, I haven't had good sleep in ages, maybe I should hit the hay early. Thanks to Luna I feel a bit better. I then closed my eyes and slowly drifted into sleep.

0o0o0o0o0

I was relieved when I entered my dream that is is different from the usual nightmare. But what puzzled me is that it is identical to my room.

What surprised me is a certain Draconequus was sitting in front of my computer, he wearing a headset and a black T-shirt. He was absorbed in whatever he was doing.

"That's how you penta noobs!" Dafaq? I could only wonder if he is the real Discord or just a part of my dreams. "Ha! GGWP!" He then spun around and faced me.

I noticed that there was 'ANARCHY IS CHAOS' written on his shirt. "I must say, you humans have created many wonderful, chaotic things! Soda?"

He then handed me a Mountain Dew in a can. I took the soda and took a sip. It tastes just like Mountain Dew. "Discord?" When? How? How did he enter my dreams?

"The Internet! Video games! Soda!" He went on.

"Discord."

"Hmmm?"

"Why are you here?" I asked him, even though I know he doesn't give straight answers.

"Oh I don't know... Can I not visit my favorite human? Especially when he hurting inside and outside." Damn it! Does he know what privacy means?

"First off. I told you never mess with my mind! Secondly. You only know two humans. And..."

"Isn't reading the mind of your friend the way you know how they feel?" He actually looked hurt. He then put his talon on his chin. "I know I should have eavesdropped..."

"I'm fine!" I'm not but I don't appreciate people forcing help on me. "I appreciate your concern but I don't need help."

"Nonsense. I may not be a licensed psychiatrist but I can be." He then snapped his fingers and my dreamscape changed into a psychotherapist's office. I found myself lying down on a couch an Discord was sitting down donning a long sleeved shirt, a tie and slacks.

"Hello my name is Dr. Discord, and I am here to hell you." Hell? He then coughed and spoke again. "Oh did I say hell? Must be a typo." Typo? With all of his fourth wall jokes it's getting lame.

I decided just to roll with him. He is kinda entertaining.

"Your name is Courage..."

"Nathan."

"...but you prefer your human name Nathaniel A. Garcia. You are technically a prince, currently seventh in line to the throne. You were formerly a lieutenant in the EPU army. Formerly the captain of the Royal Equestrian Guard."

"You enjoy tormenting me." I stated flatly.

"You were also adopted by King Platinum. You managed to accomplish a lot in seven years. Accomplishments are and not limited to... You ended my reign of chaos, defeated Jared and his army of freaks, you were awarded the Equestrian Badge of Honour and you made sliced bread and a large variety of swear words." What swear words?

"I didn't create sliced bread, I made banana bread. And I certainly did not introduce swear words. I introduced new combat strategies and the art of sarcasm." Okay. Copied things I saw from movies... "Oh, and basketball. Don't forget basketball!" I quickly added.

"Yes yes... However, it didn't become famous." Awww man. I practiced a lot. "You were accused of the murder of King Metamorphasis of the Changelings..." I gritted my teeth and clenched my fists.

Celestia didn't even get my side... Oh wait. I became an irrational destruction bent battle mage, I to so pissed to be reasoned with. But still!

"Which was outrageous and fucked up, I was innocent." I didn't kill him. Celestia didn't even give me a chance... She was my friend...

"Yes. I'm well aware you're innocent, I did read your mind." The Draconequus stated. "However you did almost drive the changelings to extinction." Ah. That I did. And I'm not exactly proud of it. "You do seem to have anger management issues. You lost all control and ended up more effective than insecticide."

He then snapped his paws and a can of insecticide appeared in his paw. It had a portrait of me breathing fire and three changelings trying to escape. "Baygon... Anti-Changeling spray... Chili scent!?" I read the inscriptions on the can out loud.

Behind my shades were flat eyes. "Really Discord? The Lord of Chaos is dry with lame jokes." Of all of the things he could possibly think of.

He was spraying the contents of the can on his tongue. "Well excuse me! I don't want to waste the good jokes on you." Ouch. Go fuck yourself science project.

"Since you read my mind you know that I want you to fuck off, right?"

"I can only read your surface thoughts. Because you are connected to me in a way when I gave you Chaos magic." What. This is ridiculous! "I assure you, I'm not lying. Think of something and I'll guess it.

"Fine."

One billion five hundred forty two million seven hundred thirty six.

"One billion five hundred forty two million seven hundred thirty six." He replied while holding a abacus. Dumb luck. "Nope. I think it would be very dumb luck."

I sighed then concentrated again. Ahri, mid or AFK. "Ahri, mid or AFK." He replied.

I groaned then thought again. I think this isn't a psychiatric evaluation anymore. "It wasn't from the start." Discord stated.

Sunbut doesn't know I'm running around yet and she doesn't now you are technically running around. "Oh hahahhaha! Should I be worried about it?" He asked while sipping a glass of chocolate milk. "Nice nickname by the way."

Fine I get it.

"Oh, I'd knew you'd come around! But what are your plans for Celestia?" Plans? Spin, ???, win and profit? I have no idea actually.

"No plans!? My oh my. It is very unlike you." He said as he held a talon to his forehead and a paw to his chest in a mock faint.

He then chuckled darkly. "But whatever you do, don't kill Celly, I have my plans for her. But still, I wonder what's she's going to do to you." He pondered as he held a talon to his chin. "Knowing her, she has reserved a spot in the gardens for you."

I smiled and got up. "Then I'll be ready for her. I have no plan of killing her... Making her life miserable, probably." I then altered the landscape to a field of flowers, Discord frowned at the change. "Plus, without the Elements Celestia is no match for me, even in my current state."

I then lay down on the field of flowers. "But what is your goal?" Discord asked me. "You have strived to undo the chaos I have done."

"I will be never forgiven for my sins, but I want to make p for them." Discord then frowned. "Celestia will probably just enlist me for community service." In reality I have no idea what she plans for me.

Discord was... Well, not always the way he is now. He used to be a kind soul. As unbelievable it is, I was there. The Draconequus glared at me obviously picking up my thoughts.

"That was in the past. You dwell too much on the past, you fail to see what you can become." His glare softened and he shook his head. "We have power, and those who have power use it. After all..." He then struck a pose and declared, "With great power comes great irresponsibility!"

"Really?" I asked. Of all of the references...

A door then appeared behind him. "Yes." As he turned around he said, "Do not waste your power, use it. Tata ~!" He then jumped through the door while shouting, "To infinity and beyond!" The door then disappeared.

I then blinked.

"What the fuck was that?"

Chapter 6: Welcome to Ponyville!

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Chapter 6: Welcome to Ponyville!

It's been two weeks now. I would usually not stay in the hospital for this long even with worse injuries but... I have nowhere to go and nothing to do.

The mane six visit me once in awhile, specifically Twilight and Pinkie, I honestly don't mind Pinkie's antics. Twilight asked a bajillion questions since we met.

I don't really mind the hospital mush, the military rations are worse. I asked if they could cook the squirrel, I know that ponies are not fond of meat but they looked like they were shot.

Doc said I can get out of the hospital later on today and I'll recover in two more weeks. But I only recovered that fast because I have been slowly healing myself with chaos magic.

Speaking of magic, what happened to healing magic in hospitals? I guess because this is a small town... And the fact that no one is gonna fry you with spells or bash your skull. And neither receive an arrow to the knee.

How did I get so weak? I used to be stronger than this, I could beat all of them at once before. Now I was pushed to my limits by two of them. I have to train soon.

Well, to matters at hand.

I do enjoy company but...

This is just awkward.

Sitting on a chair beside the bed was Fluttershout. The crimson haired pegasus had a small smile on her face and a black backpack on her lap. And she was kinda staring at me...

It's kinda funny. One of your enemies is visiting you when you're sick, just like your best pals. It happens to be less amusing when it happens to you.

Okaaaaaaay... This is weirding me out a bit. And this is coming from a 'friend' of Discord. I wonder why she's here anyways.

"Uhhh... Hey." She began. She then shifted in her seat uncomfortably. Ok this doesn't seem like Fluttershout. "So... How are you feeling?" I'm fucking speechless.

"Uhh... I'm great!" I then gave her a thumbs up. "Sooo... How's taking over Equestria?" You know... I'm wondering how can I be so casual in this situation...

"It's all coming together~. You know... At this point you could still join in." She said. Ahhh.... So this is what it's all about. "How does being a king sound to you." That's a bit forward. Hmmm... A king? Nah. Too much responsibilities.

"Nah. I'd rather be a court jester, while praying not to be fried by my master. Or probably a baker, I can bake good banana cake." Provided, I haven't baked in a thousand years.

I never really had a conversation with any of the Elements of Insanity. They're still like the mane six in a way, their destinies are still intertwined, though they have strayed off their original path.

She then giggled. "That's it? I thought you had higher ambitions." You know... Brutalight was more sane than I expected. Fluttershout is way calmer than I imagined.

"Oh don't get me wrong, I love adventure and combat. But if you have lived as long as me, peace is a wonderful thing." She then frowned.

"I fight for peace, for harmony. You guys strive to cause chaos. But I can feel that there is a part of you who doesn't like what you are doing." I continued on. I meant Fluttershy by that part of her.

"That part of me... That timid mare died a long time ago." She glared at me. "But you right in a way. Sometimes I have doubts about what I'm doing.

"Then why are you still doing it?" I asked her. She just laughed darkly. I raised an eyebrow.

"Because... It's not my destiny." She then absently rubbed her but while looking down.

"My destiny is my bitch." She then gave me the 'really' look.

She sighed then answered, "Your not a pony. You wouldn't understand." She then looked away. "You should know by now that ponies destinies are set in stone." I frowned and looked at her.

"Your ass tattoo? Tell me... You used to be Fluttershy, right?" She then stared at me in shock. "Yes... A soul of a Gmoder fused with your body. This changed your Cutie Mark." She blinked in shock."

"How do you know that?" She glowered at me.

"My astral projection ability. I can see not one, but two souls in your body." I answered. Partially true, I can indeed see souls but it is taxing to use that ability. Also, I used to watch these YouTube videos that had the Elements of Insanity as the main characters.

"When you became flutterbat your Cutie Mark changed also." She just stared at me her mouth wide open.

"H-how did you know that?" She asked slowly." Crap. I got carried away again.

"I just know." I replied. She crossed her arms at that. I just ignored her and went on.

"Your Cutie Mark does not define who you are, it just represents your special talent. You are who you choose to be." I replied. "What is your Cutie Mark anyways?" I asked her.

She blinked then a devilish grin appeared on her face She suddenly stood up and tossed aside her dress.

Immediately my head smoked and I then covered my eyes. "W-what are you doing!? Put your clothes on!" I stammered. What is she doing!?

"What do you mean?" She asked me. "I'm just showing my Cutie Mark." She said innocently. "How can you see it if you're covering your eyes?" She deadpanned.

"Just tell me!" I shouted. "And put your clothes back on!" I quickly added.

She giggled and sighed. "You're kinda cute, you know that?" She said... Wait, what! Did she just call me cute?

"Huh?" I asked.

"Nothing!" She quickly replied. I heard some rustling then it stopped. I remained there with my eyes covered. "My Mark is three blood covered butterfly speakers." She clarified. "You can look now you know." She grumbled.

I then uncovered my eyes. She was standing in front of me. "I didn't expect you to react like that." She then laughed at me.

"Brutalight sent you here, right?" Does she want to mess with my head that bad?" I then shook my head. "I'm already crazy, please don't add anymore."

She looked offended by the question, to my surprise instead of bursting with anger she just sighed. "I came all the way here to visit you. Do you want me to leave?" She asked sadly. Crap. I feel guilty.

"Nononono! I didn't mean that! In fact, I'm lucky that such a beautiful mare has graced me with her presence." I hastily replied. She then smiled a little. I then scratched the back of my head. "But... We aren't exactly... On good terms... Or any terms for that matter... In fact, this is the second actual conversation I've had with one of you guys."

"Well... We were always to busy trying to kill you." She explained. "Sorry we didn't try to get know you better or take you out for lunch." She sarcastically replied with a roll of her eyes.

"Oh? I tried once, you know how well that went." I answered. It basically involved a misfortune of a thousand blades, a cliff and a pissed alicorn.

"Yes. Brutalight sent me here. Brutalight wanted to check if you're still alive." She clarified.

"Ah so she's concerned." I joked.

"Nope. She's very tempted to kill you right now." Yep. That sounds legit.

"So you're concerned?" I hopefully asked.

"Don't push your luck." She then pulled out a lunch box from the bag. "I brought you some lunch." She said. Lunch? I blinked and stared at the box. Her smile faded and was replaced by a frown when I didn't respond. For Fluttershout she's being very patient. Deciding not to ruin her good mood, I grabbed the box.

I then slowly opened it and... "Oatburgers and hayfries." I said as I looked at the contents. Can I actually eat hay? Fuck it! I'll find out... "Thanks!" She smiled and I took a bite out of the burger. "You're not hungry?" I asked after finishing the contents of my mouth.

"Not really..." She answered. I shrugged and returned to my meal. After a while I looked at her and saw her staring at me. I stared back and she said, "Go on, I'm not stopping you." I blinked continued eating. She's way calmer than depicted in the YouTube episodes...

I managed to finish the meal, yes, including the hayfries... My stomach didn't react violently... Yet.

I looked over to the pale yellow pegasus and wondered. If she is like this, are the other elements similar? Her current attitude might be a ploy to lead me into false security... But what if it isn't?

But if it is, what is the point? A distraction? I could not fight properly if I faced an friend turned enemy. Or an enemy turned friend but still enemy... Frenemy?

There is one last possibility but it is highly unlikely...

I should probably not think about, she's not trying to kill me and that's a good thing.

"Helloooooo~. Are you still there?" Huh? I blinked and saw that she was beside the bed. I must have zoned out.

"Eh? I must have been captivated by your beauty." I answered. She giggled and blushed a tiny bit. A lesson that I learned, a little flattery goes a long way.

Her expression then turned serious. "Next time we meet... We're enemies." Well that's a 180. I sighed. I wish I could help them. They aren't exactly redeemable though.

"Yeah, next time. You can prepare whatever scheme you have, I'll be ready." I responded. "But it doesn't have to be like this... You guys can still stop." I quickly continued.

She was about to reply but she was interrupted by a knock to the door. A voice then followed. "Hello? Nathan?" Then a certain lavender mare opened the door, she was followed by a frowning prismatic pegasus.

I looked over to Fluttershout. She froze with her eyes wide open. She then regained her bearings and frowned.

"Ah! Good day Twilight, Rainbow Dash. What brings you two here?" I inquired. Fluttershout just stared at them.

"The doctor said you're clear to go." Twilight said. "Who's your friend?" She then quickly asked. Uhh...

"Oh! How rude of me. Fluttershout, meet Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash. Twilight Sparkle and Rainbow Dash, meet Fluttershout." I quickly introduced them.

Twilight stepped forward and offered her hand. "It's nice to meet you Fluttershout." Fluttershout just stared at the hand.

"Bye Nathan." She then walked around the lavender mare. "I'll see you around." As she exited the door she caught RD glaring at her, she responded with what I could assume was a short burst of the 'STARE'. The rainbow maned pegasus flinched.

As Fluttershout closed the door awkward moments of silence soon followed. I then got up and draped my coat over my shoulders, wore my gloves and secured my belongings.

"Sorry about that Twilight, she's just a bit grumpy." I apologized and faced her.

"Why... Is she like that...?" She asked slowly. I also noticed RD was staring at a certain pale yellow pegasus through the window.

I thought for a moment then answered. "Something bad happened to her, she was never the same afterwards." I replied truthfully. "Let's go Twilight." I then walked towards the door. Followed by the two mares.

I paid for the hospital bill and we exited the hospital. Our trip was uneventful and silent. I guess rd was still trying to wrap her head around that encounter.

As we walked through the town some ponies took glances at me then continued with their business, others stared at me. And the three flower ponies- just like in the show- fainted after saying, 'the horror, the horror!'.

"So... Where are we headed?" I asked Twilight. I have a good idea of where this goes due to having read a good number of HIE fics back home.

"We're headed to Rarity's to get you some clothes." Yep. Clothes.

"But I don't need new clothes." I argued.

"No offense but, your clothes have lots of holes in them." She countered.

"*Sigh.* Okay Mrs. Sparkle..." I answered like a young kid. As Twilight was going to retort we found ourselves in front of Rarity's Boutique. "Is this the place?" I asked.

"Hey Twi, I gotta go." Rd said. She then turned to me. "And you better not pull something off." And with that warning she dashed away. Oooh! I'm shaking in my metal boots!

"So here we are!" She declared as she went in. I looked around the room. It was filled with various outfits. (which I have no idea if fashionable or not because that's not really my thing.) No one was currently browsing.

A few moments later the fashionista came in. "Welcome to the Carousel Boutique. Where everything is chic... Oh! Hello Twilight, and Nathaniel..." Ok here it comes. "My goodness Nathaniel! Your clothes!" The fashionista shouted in horror. Didn't she see my clothes yesterday?

"I know, but this is the only set I have." The only set that's left.

"Nononono that won't do." She replied while walking over. She then went behind me and started to push me. "You need new clothes darling. We'll have to get your measurements." She's strong for a unicorn...

"Umm... Twilight." I turned my neck to the lavender mare and gave her the 'pls save me' look. She simply blinked. I think that means... Lol! Nope! You're on your own. "HEEEEEEELP! I plead you! Liberate me from the clutches of the alabaster mare!"

Twilight simply giggled at my antics. "Oh hush you. It's not as bad as you put it." Rarity chided

"You know, it's kinda hard to believe you were a soldier." Twilight stated as we entered another room.

I raised an eyebrow at this. "Oh, and what do you think and ex soldier should act like?" I asked Twilight.

"Well... I think a soldier would be more careful and serious." Really. Your brother is the captain of the Royal Guard. But I've never met Shining so I don't know for sure.

"Sorry to disappoint mam." I replied. I then turned to Rarity. "Do I have to take my shirt off?" I asked Rarity.

"Yes darling, those clothes look dreadful. Plus also your pants, I can't properly get your measurements because your pants are baggy." She insisted.

I sighed and handed her my coat. She then levitated it over to a rack. As my shirt came off the girls gasped. My whole body was covered with scars.

"W-what happened to you?" Twilight shakily asked. I'm surprised Rarity hasn't fainted. "Where did you get all of those scars?"

"I was young, young and stupid. I still am." I said as I proceeded to take off my boots.

"H-how did you survive all of that?" Twilight asked some more.

"I dunno." I flatly replied. "Questions later? I'm kinda busy." I told Twilight, she doesn't look like she's gonna drop the subject anytime soon. "And I don't really want to talk about it, it's... A kinda sensitive topic." I said as I touched my shades.

"Oh..." She then looked down. "I'll be outside." She then went out. I'm such an idiot. I then removed my pants leaving me with my boxers and shades. To be honest... This is the only pair I ever had. I have to wash them every night.

"Umm... Darling? Can you take your shades off? You're... Not blind aren't you?" She asked me.

"Nope. But my eyes are very sensitive to any kind of light." I explained as she grabbed a measuring tape with her magic. One of the many good things about my magic. I don't get easily cold.

For some reason Rarity then took my measurements with her hands. She also touched my body all over, I was kinda uneasy about it honestly but I just let it roll. She also found out I have wings. She also asked a few questions about my clothing preference.

Afterwards I just hanged around in the boutique. I was donning a red sleeveless shirt and a pair of brown baggy pants ( With many zippers and pockets. Much to Rarity's dismay.) And a pair of sandals. Rarity promised to patch up my beloved coat and to make me a few set of clothes.

During my time at the boutique I felt like I was being watched by somepony, not the 'Oh look what is it?' look but something else. A cream colored mare with a pink and dark blue mane, a background pony named bon bon if I'm not mistaken.

She was donning a pair of shades and holding a magazine. Really? In my opinion that's cliché, I then waved at her. She flinched then waved back slowly. She then stayed for a while before leaving.

If she's actually a secret agent I'm utterly disappointed. Never mind that anyways... Where's Twilight? She said she'll come back in a bit.

Bored, I snapped my fingers and a banana materialized in mid air. Grab, peel, eat. As I ate the fruit I turned my neck to a stunned Rarity.

"Did you see that?" I asked her. I then mentally kicked myself, of course she did you idiot!

"H-how... Did you do that?" She asked slowly.

"Magic." I simply replied. I then finished the banana and focused my Chaos magic on it. As I opened my hands the peel was no more, in its place was a small porcelain figure of Rarity. I stood up and handed it to her. "Thanks for the clothes Rarity."

"Wow... It's beautiful... Why thank you Nathaniel. Do you like the clothes I made?" She marveled at the figurine then asked, effectively forgetting the 'fuck reality' powers

"Why of course! Thanks again, how much anyways?" I then dug into my pocket for money.

"No need darling, consider it a gift." She said dismissively. "So, are you staying in Ponyville?" She then asked.

Uhhh... Making excuse.

"Yes, I planned to come and see the Summer sun Celebration. I was then going to settle down in Ponyville." I let out a half truth. "But some... Unexpected detours..."

"Ah. Hmmm... You don't really look like twenty two. You look younger than your age." She commented. "And so handsome..." She muttered. Wait. What?

"Huh?"

"Oh, nothing darling." She dismissed with a wave of her hand.

Fate this time intervened, as the door opened. "Hi Twilight." I greeted as the said mare came in.

"Hi Nathan. I'm headed to Sugarcube Corner, do you guys want to come with me? They have great muffins." She asked. That was somewhat subtle.

"Of course darling." Rarity replied.

"I am kinda hungry, sure." I then followed the two mares towards the confectionery.

The two girls walked beside each other chatting to each other, I didn't really pay attention to what they were saying. I was actually more concerned that something isn't trying to kill me. The streets were barren, void of any signs of ponies.

I looked at the sky and the sun was beginning to set... I always wondered. Why didn't Starswirl create a spell that makes the celestial bodies go on autopilot?

"So here we are!" Twilight proclaimed as we reached the gingerbread house, or store. That was a fast trip. This is one of the questions I have always wanted to ask.

"Is it edible?" I asked. Pointing at the gingerbread structure.

"Huh?"

"The giant gingerbread house." I clarified.

"Umm... Yes but I don't think that's allowed." She answered.

"Oh. Okay." I said sadly. I then pushed the doors open entering the inky darkness. I have night vision, I can see everypony just like in clear daylight. I rolled my eyes and went along with it anyways. "Why is it so..."

"SURPRISE!!!" All of the ponies jumped out and shouted as the lights came on. Followed by a few gasps and a few thumps followed by 'The horror the horror!'.

Pinkie poofed right in front. "Were you surprise, huh, huh, HUH?!" She shouted.

Honestly... No. "Yep. I didn't really expect a welcoming party. You just met me." I said. "What if I was a bad person, or a fillyfooler, or worse, a monster."

Apparently, the party goers have overcome their initial state of shock and and began to mingle with each other... Why do I use these kinds of words today?

She just giggled. "Oh you silly Natey." Natey? "But you're not! We have known each other for weeks!" She punctuated her words by putting her arm around me. "Plus, you should go and make friends!" With that statement she pushed me into the crowd.

I was caught of guard and I stumbled, tripped and somehow landed in a chair. "Ow!" I grumbled then rubbed the back of my head.

I then turned my neck and found out I was seated beside a certain ash grey mare with a black mane. She was wearing an elegant black dress accompanied by wide eyes, probably startled.

"Good evening, my name is Nathan, miss..."

She blinked then composed herself. "Oh, my name is Octavia, Octavia Melody." She then offered her hand, I shook it in return.

"It's a pleasure to meet you Octavia." I replied in return.

"So Nathan, how are you enjoying your stay in Ponyville, so far?" The charcoal maned mare asked.

"It is quite a nice town. I've been traveling for some time, and I've decided to settle down." I replied. How come I'm getting better at lying? "The ponies here are quite accepting..." I said. I then looked to three certain mares being carried out. "Some I guess..." I muttered under my breath.

As she was about to answer, my stomach rumbled. She giggled then said, "Oh my. It looks like you have... Other matters to attend to." She joked. I hope it's not about the hay I ate...

I let out a chuckle of my own, "Indeed... It was a pleasure meeting you Octavia."

"And I as well." She replied. I then nodded and got up. Good thing I was thought to deal with nobles, and for some reason I enjoy speaking like that.

As I made my way to the table full of food and drinks, I saw a black pegasus stallion stealing glances at a white pegasus mare with a pink and green mane. Thunderlane and Blossomforth.

Stomach. Wait. I devilish smile appeared on my face and I approached the black pegasus. I conjured a bunch of red roses and handed it to him. He looked at me with a confused expression. I shrugged and made him spin like a top.

I then stopped him and made him face the white mare. I then lightly tapped the mare's shoulder. I walked away and gave him a thumbs up. What can I say? I'm in that kind of mood.

I made my way to the snack table and grabbed a cupcake. I then smiled as I looked at the pair. Blossomforth and Thunderlane both sported blushes as they talked to each other. I took a bite out of the cupcake and sighed.

I then saw... Did that just happen? Yes, I saw Derpy dip her face in the chocolate fountain. As she pulled away and licked her muzzle she stared at me.

I wonder if it was just a trick of light or what but... Time seemed to slow down as I saw the fire in her eyes, the eyes of a veteran. Then her eyes went out of focus.

I shook my head and blinked. Somehow I feel like I'm being watched... And no, not the 'Look mommy it's a big hairless monkey!' kind. Maybe I'm just being paranoid.

She then approached me while wiping the rich chocolate off her muzzle. "Hi! I'm Derpy!" She happily greeted.

I blinked then introduced myself. "And I'm Nathan." I gave her a smile. Oh I forgot, my teeth. She didn't look intimidated though...

One of her eyes went to the side. She then tapped the side of her head and her eyes went back in focus. She probably thought I was staring at her eyes, she frowned as she looked down.

"Your eyes."

"Huh? Oh yeah, my eyes..." She said sadly. "I had this eye condition since I was young..." If I mastered my Chaos magic I could correct it...

"I think they make you look cute." I complimented without thinking. She then immediately looked up and blushed lightly.

"R-really?"

"I think... I think they make you unique. You shouldn't be ashamed of it, in fact be proud of it." I said. Reminiscing that I was always a bit of a black sheep before I came to Equestria... And I still am.

She then smiled brightly. "T-thank you!" She beamed.

"No problem. Have a good time!" I said as I grabbed a few cupcakes. I then waved and walked away. Oh! Muffin. "Muffin." I said as I returned to grab a muffin.

Well I don't think Derpy would be a secret agent, the idea... "Ooof!" My train of thought was interrupted by bumping into someone.

I extended my hand and caught whoever I bumped into. To my horror, I caught a certain mint colored unicorn. I then pulled her to her hooves.

"I'm sorry, are you alright?" I asked her. She just stared at me dreamily. Ok what the fuck. Aside from being creeped out... Did I just see flowers butterflies and tiny hearts radiating from her? And her eyes are heart shaped.

"I'm L-Lyra... What's your name?" She asked. She was wearing a jean skirt and a white shirt with pink stripes. "Wow... A real human..." She then dreamily sighed.

"I'm Nathan." I simply said. "Oh, and I'm not human." I quickly followed up. I could swear I heard a turntable scratch. Well theoretically not human.

"Eh!?! But the skin! The feet! Smaller eyes! Canines!" She sputtered. I then spread my wings halfway. Her expression then was shocked, annoyed and disappointed, in that particular order.

I smiled as I tucked my wings away. "If it's any consolation, I used to be human." I said. At my words her eyes sparkled again. "And I can tell you about humans at a later date." I added.

"Really!?" She bursted out as she got a little too close. She was leaning forward and her muzzle was inches from my face. She realized this and she backed away blushing furiously. "Wait!? A d-date!?" Seriously? Not that kind! Okaaaaaay I'm out of here.

I just blinked at her as steam literally came from her head and her face turned pink from mint green. Is it just me or God watches too much anime? I wondered as I escaped.

Cupcakes... I dropped them... My stomach then rumbled again. "*Sigh.* Damnit." I need food. I then began to make my way towards the snack table.

I began to stuff my face with cupcakes and cookies, I then washed it down with some punch. God, I've missed all of these stuff... I then wiped my face with a handkerchief I conjured. I then turned said handkerchief into a wafer and ate it.

What? I don't waste magic. I then turned to see Twilight staring at me. "Did you just...?" She blinked then shook her head. "I was probably just seeing things." She muttered as her hand met her face.

"Yeah, you did Twilight." I answered. I do not want an early Lesson Zero."Just eat something, there is a lot of food over there." I said as I gestured to the snack table. Nor do I want to be strapped to a machine in Twilight's basement.

"Sure but first somepony wants to talk to you." She said. Somepony? Who would want to see me? I shrugged and followed her.

I made my way through the crowd and noticed some ponies were crowding around something. They parted as I came through.

I was greeted by the sight of a certain white alicorn with a rainbow mane. She wore a gentle smile as she greeted the ponies of the room. "Hello my little ponies."

Why does fate love to fuck with me?

Temporary Hiatus

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Sorry guys if you think this was an update...

i will going on a temporary hiatus on my stories. well i have lost my computer a few days back and now i am having difficulties with my cellphone...

welll... sorry i guess?

Chapter 7: Sun.

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---3RD PERSON---
(FOLLOWING NATHAN)

Sugarcube Corner suddenly went quiet at the arrival of Princess Celestia, as like all of the ponies in the room Nathan was silent. He was standing there, expecting Celestia to eventually find him, though he wasn't exactly ready for it. If he was like Discord or any other ‘evil’ persona he would have been greeted with the ‘rainbow beam’.

He knew he had to talk to Celestia eventually. Honestly, Nathan wasn't really angry about the whole imprisonment thing, he was upset about the abandonment issue. He calmed mostly over the years.

Nathaniel was snapped out of his trance by Twilight. "Pssst! What are you doing?" Twilight nudged him then whispered. "She's Princess Celestia, she's the ruler of Equestria and she..."

"I know full well of who she is." Nathan wispered back, his eyes focused on the Princess of the sun.

"Hello Nathan, how are you?" Celestia asked. The only thing he really noticed last time was the height and the mane. Her eyes now held wisdom and her gaze was gentle as to a mother to her children. She changed a lot over the years.

Nathan then smiled slightly and greeted her. "Hello Celestia, as you see I am quite fine." Everyone (or for them everpony as usual) in the room had a mirrored expression of shock as their Princess was addressed in such manner. "What brings you here this fine evening?" Nathan inquired with as much eloquent grace he could muster.

"N-Nathan she's the princess! What are you doing!?" Twilight chastened more loudly.

"It is alright Twilight, Nathan is a friend of mine." Celestia explained. Celestia looked calm but under her expression was fear

"B-but..." Twilight sputtered.

Nathan looked at Celestia and she stared back to him, silently asking him to not start anything. Nathan got the message and chuckled. He then walked towards the Alicorn and followed her outside.

They were then greeted by the cool air and the beautiful night sky.

‘Nighttime already?’ Nathan thought to himself. ‘Time sure flies fast. Celly took longer to find than I expected. She's changed a lot though.’

Two white ponies in golden armour immediately rushed over at the sight of the strange ‘monkey’. "Guards, stay here." Celestia commanded to the ponies in golden armour.

"But your highness..." One of them argued.

"Stay here."

"Yes Princess." The guardpony replied and both of them nodded nodded. Before returning to stand guard at the chariot one of them looked Nathan up and down. Nathan just ignored the guard.

Nathan and Celestia then went to a hill by the outskirts of town. They stood there, saying nothing under the light of the moon. Nathan placed his shades on his forehead and plopped down on the grass. He then spread his arms and legs making himself comfortable.

Celestia was taken aback by Nathan's approach of the situation. He was extremely laidback as usual as she noticed during his free time, stark contrast to his belligerent nature in combat. She expected the worst when Luna told her that Nathan was in Ponyville, she feared for her pupil and the small town. Even though Luna assured her he was no different than more than a century ago.

Nathan on the other hand was waiting for Celestia to speak. He never liked silence during situations like these. He was not really angry for his initial wrath cooled down a long time ago, he resented Celestia a bit not for his imprisonment. He was upset about the fact Celestia forgot about him.

"Nathan... I'm sorry." Celestia then closed her eyes and was about to say something.

"Do you know how it feels, to be stuck like that? Everyday I was tormented by my conscience for what I did, to make it worse I felt the pain I inflicted on others. I wanted to die. I wanted to scream, shout… I wanted it to end." Nathan said, his eyes focused on the night sky. Celestia was just silent. "If it weren't for the occasional spirit that passed by I would go batshit crazy."

"Everything was going swell for me. Then one day, my world crashed. I snapped, I slaughtered the ones who were responsible. And I admit, at the time it felt… good. A part of me died that day."

"I was reduced to nothing more than a mindless beast which you had to kill… But instead you used the Elements to put me away." Nathan continued. "And it's like you swept me under the rug… You just forgot."

"Nathan… I was scared. I did what I thought was right at the time. I didn't want to lose you or Luna, but I had to choose." Celestia then opened her eyes. Her purple eyes were misty, and on the verge of tears. "I chose Equestria."

"After the both of you were gone, the castle was depressing. Every time I would close my eyes, both of you were there. The memories… I couldn't bear it, so I left. I was the only one who could lead Equestria, I had to stay strong. And time just passed." A tear then streaked down her face.

Silence then fell on them.

Suddenly Nathan smiled and said, "You could have at least visited. I would have enjoyed flowers, I am quite fond of Panda Lilies, an exotic flower isn't the bane of The Princess of the Sun herself. Eh?" He then grabbed a flower and pointed it at her.

Celestia’s jaw then dropped, she couldn't find words for his reply. She expected him to shout at her, to pour all of his anger at her, instead he was smiling at her puzzled expression. Nathan then got up and faced her.

Finally the Sun Princess managed to form words. "How…? How can you act like this? I-I… It wasn't fair! You didn't deserve it!" Nathan just shrugged. "You have all the right to hate me. And y-you..." Celestia then held head.

"I'm not angry I'm just… Annoyed. I would have chosen Equestria too, I would have put you in the corner instead though..." He then put a hand to his chin. "Plus no matter how much I complain, I cannot turn back the clock and change what I did. And holding a grudge would just make me look older, I don't need that."

"You know Celly... Fuck it all. It's all fine and dandy to just forget and call it water under the bridge." Nathan then smiled. "Fuck I'm no good at this stuff! Just stop crying already, it's bothering me."

Celestia at this point was indeed crying. Nathan snapped his fingers and a handkerchief appeared, he then handed it to her. She pushed away and Nathan shrugged. Celestia then managed to composed herself.

"I… I am sorry…"

"I hate drama, all is forgiven Celestia. I might just raid your cake vault, or embarrass you sometimes." And seriousness has been brutally murdered several times tonight. "I'll find some nonlethal, non apocalyptic way to get back at you."

She nodded and smiled at Nathan's antics. "I understand. This may not mean anything to you but its still yours." She levitated a trinket, the royal seal to him. "You are still a prince. Even in your absence you still hold the title." Nathan just stared at the trinket in his palm and sighed.

"Celestia if you expect me to help with paperwork you're dreaming, I'll just make other people do it and I'll supervise." He then held his hands together like he was holding a sword. "My specialty is… Aggressive negotiations."

He paused for a moment before asking. "How did you know I was here anyway? Who told you, Twilight or Luna?"

"Well both actually. Twilight sent me a letter. A strange injured creature came from the Everfree." She explained. "Then I asked Luna if she knew anything. She told me that she managed to enter your dream.

"Damn it Luna." Nathan muttered to himself. "I hope Luna explained the situation to you, I hate repeating myself." He continued with more volume.

"She did." Celestia nodded and confirmed.

Celestia was about to say something but Nathan interrupted her oncemore. "You know I would prefer to heckle you and say something like ‘How much does your hair dye cost?’ or ‘How do you get your hair to do that?’ buuuuuut..." His expression then turned serious. "It's about the Elements of Insanity isn't it?"

Celestia nodded. "Yes. You have seen what they are capable of. They may not be as powerful or cunning compared to the other opponents we have faced… But they are unpredictable and unstable, and I fear that their imprisonment has made them even more..."

"Crazy?" Nathan asked, Celestia seemed to be annoyed at the constant interruption but didn't express it. "Even more spiteful? Who would have guessed?” Nathan sarcastically replied as he rolled his eyes.”

"Nathan… You should take this seriously..." Celestia started.

“I am, I'll deal with it. Think of the bitch-like behavior as a coping mechanism. Also I'm still pissed, I just can't do anything about it… But please, continue." Nathan cut in.

"You were almost killed. You and the Elements of Insanity may be at a stalemate but I fear it may not last long." Celestia declared grimly. "And your power has not fully returned. They will do anything to remove the spell that binds your fate to theirs."

“That's no big deal, I already know how to deal with them.” He confidently replied.

“No, me and Luna already have it under control.” Celestia reassured him.

“Somehow that doesn't comfort me in the slightest.” Nathan replied, remembering Fluttershout at the hospital. “Plus, you think you could stop me if I did anything? I fucked up too, I'll fix my problems.”

Celestia simply sighed. "Nathan… You should take it easy for..." She then shook her head. "Nevermind, you wouldn't listen anyways. Since you are free, what are you going to do now? Are you coming to Canterlot with me? Luna is looking forward to see you again" She asked.

"No. I'm staying here in Ponyville." I replied. "I… " He felt a tingling sensation on his back. "Someone is watching." Nathan's eyes narrowed as he turned around to check. He didn't see anything but trees and bushes…

"Hooo." Nathan then raised an eyebrow and looked around, he saw an owl preached on abranch of a nearby tree. He chuckled and stared at the owl.

"You of course dummy." Nathan replied to the bird. Celestia smiled and shook her head. Nathan then turned back to Celestia. "Owl."

"You are still as sharp as ever." She mused.

"And you got fat." I pointed out. "You shouldn't use the chariot that often." I suggested. Celestia sighed and looked at the human.

"And you haven't changed at all..." She then smiled at him.

"But you have changed a lot." Nathan said. Then he muttered, "Aside from the weight that is..."

"I thought you would have matured." She said wistfully. She then became serious. "I know you will not endanger my subjects on purpose. But your presence here may endanger not just you but the Bearers of the Elements of Harmony."

"Yeah… I met them, nice bunch. Though how the ponies reacted to me was different, first time I came to Equestria I remember a mob." Nathan smiled and placed my shades back on. "Now then. I'm sure you have a lot of princessy duties you need to attend to, I won't keep you up all night." I declared.

"Indeed, let us go." She agreed. They then made our way back to Ponyville. I was relieved, the pain may be still there, but I have finally had a chance to talk to her.

---1ST PERSON---

NATHANIEL GARCIA

OUTSIDE SUGARCUBE CORNER.

As we reached Sugarcube Corner the party was ending, the various party goers have left. Me and Celestia faced the mane six.

"As you see, me and Nathan go way back." She told them. "In fact... He is as old as I am." She declared. Wait? What!? What the hell is Celestia doing!?

The mane six all wore various faces of shock. (Except Pinkie, I wonder why...) "S-so Princess. He's a thousand years old?" Twilight shakily asked.

"I'm actually one thousand five hundred thirty by my count." I clarified. "But that's a thousand five hundred something years in suspended animation. So I am theoretically twenty plus years old." I quickly added.

"You are actually forty years old putting aside your extremely long absence." Celestia cut in.

I then turned to Celestia and raised an eyebrow. "Pardon? Thirty I would buy, but forty is a bit of a stretch. Never mind, I feel twenty two anyways..."

"Uhhh... Twilight? What's suspended animation?" Rainbow whispered.

"Well Rainbow, suspended animation is the slowing or stopping of life processes by exogenous or endogenous means without termination. Breathing, heartbeat, and other involuntary functions may still occur, but they can only be detected by magical means." Twilight replied.

"Lazy author. Really? Wikipedia? You were gone for five months." Pinkie then glared at the sky. All of us ignored her. (except Twilight who still hasn't wrapped her head around Pinkie Pie's antics.)

"Uhhh... Meaning?" Rainbow asked, pulling her attention away from Pinkie.

"A state that is almost like death, achieved by making the body processes of the pony work more slowly than normal." My explanation was greeted by blinks. "Think of it as a magically induced comma." I simply put it.

"Were you really a soldier?" Rainbow asked with a raised eyebrow. "Because you talk like an egghead. No offense Twi." She then turned to the lavender unicorn.

"None taken..." She muttered .

"Has he told you who he is?" Celestia asked. This caused all of the mares to focus their attention on the alicorn. Oh she isn't! "He wasn't always a soldier, he became High General eventually. Meet my brother, Courageous Platinum." Celestia, I hate you more.

All of the mares gasped and their jaws dropped. All of them just stared at me and I just smiled. I went near Celly and whispered to her. "Molly you have just lost your cake."

"Brother!?" Rainbow exclaimed.

"You're a prince?" Rarity asked, her eyes gleaming.

"Your name isn't Nathan?" Pinkie asked. Her head tilted.

“What?" Applejack asked, dumfounded.

"Woah! One question at a time. Gimme a sec." I then pointed to each mare as I answered their questions. "Yes. Yes. My birth name is Nathan. What?" I then turned to the alicorn. "Tia was that really necessary?" I asked her.

She smiled. "I'm afraid I have urgent business in Canterlot and I have to go back." She declared. Yeah, right. Really Tia? "Twilight, I trust you and your friends to keep an eye on him. He has… quite the knack of getting into trouble."

"Of course princess, you can count on us." Twilight enthusiastically replied.

"You do realize I'm right here right?" I asked Celestia. My lips then curved into a small smile. "Molly..." Celestia’s right ear began to twitch as she closed her eyes. I then turned to the girls. "Also, I would like you to… keep your lips sealed about my position. Until Celestia breaks the news to Equestria that is."

"Yes I agree with Nathan, I trust for you and your friends to keep this a secret." Celestia chimed in.

"Of course Princess Celestia, Nathan. My lips are sealed." Twilight replied.

As Celestia took her seat on her chariot I approached her. "What was that about?"

“Hmm? What do you mean?”

“Don't play dumb, was that really necessary?”

“Not really.” Celestia’s face then became serious. “But still, you should be careful. The Elements of Insanity are not the only ponies you should look out for.”

I didn't say anything, she seemed like she was going to add something but she decided against it. I'm curious. “Just take care of yourself.” I sighed, I'm interested in what she was going to say.

“Best way to help me, paint a bulleye on my back. Please don't tell me you're taking a thousand year vacation leaving me and Luna with the throne.”

“Blueblood is next in line.”

“How come I feel worser… Yes, I'm aware that is not a word.”

"Don't worry, I've got it under control." She assured me. "Word hasn't gone about you yet but it will eventually though.”

"But seriously, you can't just tell Equestria that I'm basically royalty. It would only cause a shitstorm, and I don't need that." And I have enough enemies waiting to be unleashed already… Knowing my luck.

"Well we were adopted by King Platinum, that means it is your right to rule." She said. Well I know but…

"I'm not worried, I don't really care about the crown anyways. It's just that… Nevermind." Things have changed, it was so simple before. "Just let me at them whenever, the sooner I deal with it the better Whenever I guess." I waved my hand in dismissal. I hate politics.

When I returned the party was over and the mane six peppered me with questions. I said that maybe (Maybe is a keyword here.) I will explain things to them tommorow. I then followed Twilight to her humble abode.

Spike wasn't there at the party for some reason. I was thankful that Twilight didn't ask so many questions along the way, she was mostly silent.

"So Nathan... You are a prince?" Twilight asked.

"Yes. But I've never really considered myself as one. You don't have to treat me like one." I replied. "I'm just like a normal pony. Or human."

"Normal?"

I smiled and replied. "Some people are more normal than others I guess."

"That doesn't make sense." She frowned.

"It's not supposed to." I replied. "So Twilight, you've told me about your assistant Spike. Why wasn't he at the party?" I asked.

"Well, Spike said he didn't feel like going." She replied. Didn't feel like coming? Who rejects a chance for free food? "So I told him to watch the library."

"Ah. So it's only you and Spike who live in the library then?" I asked, even though I know.

"Well yes... Oh, here we are!" She declared as she presented the Golden Oaks Library. It is a large hollowed out tree that became a library.

"Huh. A giant tree, I've seen weirder though." Nothing can ever top the Internet. She seemed surprised by my reaction.

As we went in Twilight flipped on a switch and the lights came on. They have electricity? Oh yeah… Magic, how could I forget? Soon after a certain dragon groggily came out, clutching a pillow in one hand and rubbing his eyes with another. He is kinda skinny, he was wearing a pair of… pink pajamas?

He then turned to look at me, then Twilight. "Who is that Twi?" He asked. He then rubbed his eyes and blinked a few times. "Whoa! What is it!?" Spike shouted as he pointed at me. He then squinted his eyes. "Its a... Monkey?" How many times have I been called a monkey?

"Spike!"

"And you're a overgrown lizard." I snapped back.

"Touché." He then turned to Twilight. "So who is he?" He asked.

I answered instead of Twilight. "My name is Nathan, nice to meet you." I then offered my hand.

He shook it and introduced himself. "And I'm Spike! Nice to meet you." He then shook my hand. "Hey Twilight, I'm going back to bed. Good night." The dragon then trudged back to bed.

"Sorry about that..." Twilight then rubbed the back of her head. "Well I prepared a guest room." I then followed Twilight to said guest room, this is whole place is a library. I didn't really pay attention to the details of the room. Instead, I focused on the bed.

"Sorry if it isn't much..." Twilight apologized.

I wordlessly walked over and flopped on the bed face first. I then mumbled a reply. "(Life is good…)”

"Huh?"

"Thanks a lot Twilight." I snapped my fingers and my clothes (minus my boxers) appeared on top of a bedside table neatly folded. My sandals at the foot of the dresser, and I was covered by a blanket even if I didn't actually need one. "I am very comfortable. Good night to you." You appreciate beds more after being trapped in stone.

She said something but I didn't really hear it. As I was falling asleep I swore someone else was there, I did feel a few other individuals. Somehow I know who they were. I got up and snapped my fingers, my clothes reappearing on myself. I snapped my fingers again to blink out of the house. I stood there with a pair of binoculars, scanning the area.

“If I were a sniper with a magically improved gun were would I hide… Forest? Too much buildings in between. Town hall? Nope.” I muttered as I scanned the surrounding finally setting my eyes on the mountain. I saw a certain dark purple Alicorn and a red maned pegasus.

I waved to them and Brutalight lowered -what appeared to be a sniper scope- in disbelief. She then handed it to Fluttershout, Fluttershout smiled and waved and I did the same. Then I got an idea.

I snapped my fingers and a chalkboard appeared. I wrote down ‘Please step 20 feet away from her’. I saw her step away from BT I put down the binoculars and charged a fireball, I then chucked it at her. It won't kill her it'll just hurt really bad.

Wait, did I hit her? I then floated the binoculars to me and checked. Brutalight was sitting on the ground, covered in soot with a small crater on the mountain face. She glared at my general direction with all the hate she could muster.

Now I can go to bed.

---3RD PERSON---

(FOLLOWING ???)

SOMEWHERE IN PONYVILLE.

Derpy hummed a tune to herself as she stepped out of her home carrying a few empty milk containers, she then set the containers at the doorstep of her home. She was about to go back inside to retire for the day when a cloaked figure approached her.

"Hmmm?" Her usually cheery expression changed into a more serious one. "What brings you here at this hour?" Her eyes focused on the cloaked pony.

"Master, it is about Ponyville’s newest resident." The figure replied bowing a bit. The figure spoke, a mare derpy definitely knew.

"This is not the place to talk." Derpy walked over to the cloaked pony and placed a hand on her shoulder, both of them disappeared in a flash of golden flames. They reappeared somewhere along the edge of the Everfree Forest.

Another cloaked figure was waiting for derpy to arrive. "Sweet Celestia! Derpy you scared the crap out of me!" She shouted in surprise at Derpy’s arrival.

The cloaked figure from earlier clutched her head, gaining a headache from the teleportation lag. "Ugghh..." She then composed herself and glared at the other mare. "Colgate! Show respect, she may no be our teacher

Colgate simply rolled her eyes in annoyance. "That's the point. She isn't my master and she isn't yours either, Symphony." She pulled back her hood revealing her dark blue mane with white streaks and a light blue fur and horn. "You are still the ass kisser slash dog of the Fire Magus." Derpy simply pinched the bridge of her muzzle and sighed.

"For a dentist you have quite a dirty mouth on you." Symphony gave a small smile beneath her hood. She waved her hand and a purple flame wrapped around it. "My flames are sure to fix that." She added as she took a stance.

Colgate pulled out a pouch of water. She did a few hand gestures and the water flowed out. The water swirled around her before forming into a sword of ice in her hand, colgate swung it a few times before pointing it at her. "You need to wash off all of that soot. Lemme help you with that. Oh wait, you're burnt like charcoal. Can't fix that." A smug smile plastered on her face.

"ENOUGH!" Colgate's ice blade melted and the other mare's flames dispersed at derpy’s intervention. "Now, what is so important you had to drag me out this late?" Derpy asked.

“An agent of the Night Shift was killed on a mission yesterday.” Colgate replied. “And they've dumped the blame on us, something about one of us doing it.” Colgate then stared at the puddle. “Damnit the water was clean.”

“It isn't our fault for their agents incompetence, though they are far better than the Royal Guard. But was it really a Rouge user?”

“Yeah, a Rouge Child of Water to be exact.” Colgate answered. She pulled out a folder and a black shard of ice. “These pictures though…”

Derpy grabbed the folder and looked at the pictures. One of the pictures showed a body slumped against a wall, several thin black ice spikes sticking out of the body like a pin cushion. Another picture showing a body of a mare, her face unrecognizable because of the burns and a hole where her stomach is, or was.

Colgate then pulled out a staff that was strapped to her back. She gave it a twirl and slammed it on the ground, two sets of wings made of red cloth popped out, staff revealed to double as a glider. “This is probably the motive.” Colgate declared.

“That staff…” Symphony muttered in awe, Derpy simply nodded.

“Yes, a tool of the Children of the Air. They did have a very different lifestyle from us, most of them lived as monks. They spent the entirety of their lives in spiritual pursuit, eventually detaching themselves from the world.” Derpy said, the two other mares confused by what she meant. “Well now most of them are vagabonds.” She quickly added.

“Sooo…. They uh, just train to die? They must be good at it.” Colgate asked, her hands raised. Symphony ebowed her and glared. “Hey! What was that for? Well that's what I understood!”

“Before you two start….” Derpy cut in as lighting seem to clash as they glared at each other. “BEFORE. YOU. START.” She repeated more forcefully. “Now, Colgate. Find Bee, if she won't listen drag her flank to Manehattan.” She ordered Colgate. “What is your opinion on Drake, Symphony?” She then turned to the ash colored mare.

“Drake will not give up his sister Bee and he probably improved vastly over the years. We would only get Bee if he would die or he would come with her.” Symphony answered. “But he is extremely stubborn, he wouldn't see it our way.”

“Hmmm. I see. Colgate, try to take them to Manehattan. Kill Drake if he proves to he too stubborn, your life is of higher priority, remember that.”

"Yeah, I'll head out first thing tomorrow." Colgate nodded. "Is that all?" Derpy nodded. "Kay, I'll get ‘em. Chow!" Colgate's horn glowed blue and she disappeared in the same colored flash.

"Tch, how rude." Symphony muttered, glaring at where colgate was. "With all due respect master… They are traitors, what they did is worthy of death." Symphony turned to face derpy.

Derpy frowned and spoke to her. "It is wrong to blame Bee for the sins of her brother, though I can't really make a comment about it because I wasn't there. Now, what do you have to report?"

"It is about Ponyville’s newest arrival, the… Human, Nathan." Symphony replied.

"Him? He seems nice, but there is more to him I feel."

"Princess Celestia showed up a while ago, Nathan spoke to her on a casual level."

"Oh? I had to take dinky home, she was tired. That's interesting, even the ponies closest to her treat her like the royalty she is."

"They spoke around the outskirts of town and I followed them. They seems to know each other very well. Nathan is actually Courageous Platinum, the heir of the last Unicorn King himself." At this point Derpy’s eyes went out of focus as she processed what Symphony said.

"Courageous Platinum according to the books died, the details are ambiguous though." She replied as she lightly slapped the side of her head to focus her eyes. "Are you sure about all of this?"

"Yes, from the lips of Princess Celestia herself. Also he is a Child of Fire. He wrapped is hands with fire and he spewed flames." Symphony confirmed.

"Sweet Faust… For Celestia’s sake is there anything else?" Derpy asked.

"No. Your orders?"

"I want you to earn his trust. The knowledge that he has… No, his strength too, he would be a great ally if what they spoke of is true." Derpy commanded.

"Yes master." Symphony bowed.

Without another word Derpy disappeared in a flash of golden flames and reappeared in front of her house. “Kids these days…” She muttered as she returned to her abode.

Flame of Courage.

by shattered_sky

Chapter 1: Awakening(rewritten)

Chapter 2: Freaks, a Dragon and the Cliff(rewritten)

Chapter 3: Hold your fire!

Chapter 4: Monsters or not?

Chapter 5: Visitors are overrated...

Chapter 6: Welcome to Ponyville!

Temporary Hiatus

Chapter 7: Sun.