> Gidget Chronicles > by Ninyn > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > A New Tale > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight was busy looking through her library thinking of different spells and remedies to Nightwalker's terror. She had no idea in any realm what she could. Nightwalker was practically the dark and vicious version of Nightshade. A loud quake shook her castle and she turned to see Alyra Shade with a scar over one eye and her spear drawn. Twilight jumped and sent a blast of magic at Alyra. Alyra rolled to the side and shot a blast of dark matter at Twilight. The blast hit Twilight full on knocking her through a wall. The wall immediately began to heal itself. Twilight gasped wide eyed, "I didn't know the castle could repair itself!" she said. On the other side of the wall Alyra slashed viciously trying to break down the wall but the castle responded with blasting her with its own magic. Alyra fell back sprawled out on the floor looking around weary eyed. Viral the beast man walked over her and rolled his eyes, "And here I thought you could do this easily on your own Alyra," he said. Armor began to clank over his body resembling his gunman from his realm. With one strike Viral shattered the wall. Twilight was already on the other side of the castle finishing up her portal. The castle shuttered as Viral continued knocking down walls with his monstrous strength. Viral plowed through the last door and Twilight had re-opened the portal back to Canterlot High! Viral sent a blast at her but another blast rebounded his own! Twinblade Firestar stood before Twilight dangerously glaring at the beast man, "Ya know… I'm not sure how you are shadow princess can hold your humanoid forms while in our realm but I'm pretty sure that it had something to deal with Nightwalker," he said. Twilight tried to say something but Twinblade motioned for her to go with his wing. Twilight nodded and quickly escaped through the mirror. Viral snarled and lunged at Twinblade. Twinblade held up his sword and blocked the beast mans strike. On contact Twinblade's indigo blade sent a rebounding spark through Viral's armor shattering it! Viral's eyes widened as the energy from the sword coursed through his body violently. Twinblade whipped around and smacked Viral far off with his wing. Alyra got to her feet and she charged at the pegasi but Silver Strings and Thunderwing blocked her path. Silver smiled sadistically, "You executed our friends mercilessly…. I think we need to return the favor in a less violent way. What say you Thunder?" he asked. Thunder pulled out a staff and slammed the end of it into Alyra sending a bolt of lightning through her! Alyra spat out blood and fell back as Silver came forward with a massive strike knocking the warrior back! Silver's eyes had turned dark violet and his coat was now an oily shade of black. Alyra stood once more and her negative energy fizzled as she grasped her spear. Silver appeared behind Alyra as he smacked her hard with his front leg. Alyra gasped and fell as she hit the castle wall. Thunder walked over to her fallen body and held a wand to her head. The young woman looked up with tears in her eyes, "Please! End it already!" she cried. Thunder murmured an incantation bringing the wand to life sending Alyra into a deep sleep… --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Viral didn't know what to think as this redheaded pony continued its vicious barrage of hacks and slashes! It was almost as agile and cocky as Kamina! But this pony didn't hold the same sense of honor he had. With a twirl Viral dodged the ponies next attack as he cut across Twinblade's shoulder. Twinblade didn't flinch… He didn't even react to the pain… He turned and cut off the beast man's arm! Viral fell back wide eyed and worried as the pony stomped his hoof on the beast mans chest. Viral spat and glared at him, "Go ahead finish me!" he growled. As Twinblade moved for the final blow a hand of dark matter shot out of the ground and knocked Twinblade back. Twinblade's sword went flying to the side and the hand grabbed Viral pulling him back to the shadow realm. Twinblade got to his feet and grabbed his blade to follow but found Nightwalker standing calmly before him. Twinblade growled, "What do you want?! If it's a fight you're looking for you've come to the right pony!" he yelled. Nightwalker held up one hand, "As a matter of fact I merely came to thank and congratulate you dear boy. You showed me some interesting flaws in the use of the gunman armor and Viral's fighting style," he said. Twinblade glared at Nightwalker and slashed forward at him. Nightwalker's eyes hollowed as he blocked the strike, "You stand no chance in anyone's right mind to fight me young pegasi… Be thankful I'm not in a killing mood or you'd be severed in half in front of Princess Twilight's Castle," he said disappearing. Twinblade blinked and shivered listening to Nightwalker's words and roared in fury having not finished the beast man. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nightwalker sat on his throne flexing his newly found muscles and sighed deeply. It had been too close of a loss with the ponies. It was obvious that the four remaining heroes of equestria had grown more vicious since their last encounter but for a pony alone to reach such a point was beyond thinkable. Nightwalker's gaze shifted to a meter he had made on the wall detecting the different energy spikes between the realms. It seemed no one had recently traveled in or out of another realm that wasn't theirs…. *Wait…* Nightwalker raised an eyebrow as he saw a bit of the equestrian meter drop and the zodiac meter rise. The monster tapped his chin, "Now who would want to visit Onimak in a time such as this?" he thought. Nightwalker shrugged as he walked off towards his own medical bay to tend to Viral's wounds. There had been no sign of Alyra which probably meant she had died at the hands of the heroes… Oh well. A lose of no concern to Nightwalker. The monster had better resources than a scared little girl. > The Dark and The Light > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Caster sat in his office with a grim expression on his face. Eyeing the clock Caster sighed heavily. "Nothing's been the same since the realms united..... Everything's to quiet here..... Why can't there be some sort of ruckus going on?!" Caster growled. Turning to the window Caster looked down on the city of Elmira. Caster growled and watched as the sunset behind the mountains. Caster closes his eyes and noticed that his left hand was slowly starting to burn. Caster opened his eyes and looked to his hand and noticed the seal of the Exion crypt was starting to glow. The burns never bothered Caster. After fighting Awkright and Aladar nothing really bothered him regarding pain. "Who could be tampering with that bloody realm now?!" Caster asked. Caster turned towards his safe and tapped his chin, *What am I saying?! I haven't had any fun in over a year now! Let's go mate!* he thought happily. Caster grabbed his shotgun and armor as he engaged through his safe quietly chuckling to himself, *I hope this trip is worth it,* he thought smiling. ---------------------------------- The heroes of Equestria had disbanded going there separate ways..... Each of them had been deeply wounded by Night Glade's death...... Scarlet was taking her patrols at the Crystal empire more seriously than ever before. The armored figure entering the Exion realm sighed, "It's not fair...... But I plan to find a way to bring you back....." She said. An Exion dropped down from a pike and snarled at the figure. The figure pulled out a staff and clicked a button turning it into a scythe. The Exion lunged at the figure but she quickly snapped around, the scythes blade lined against its belly. The figure pulled off her helmet, "Nightshade taught me this," she said as magic flowed from her body into the scythe. The Blade of the scythe turned white, "Exion Finisher: Aenimoras!" She yelled pulling on the scythe severing the Exion in half. The girl was Gidget Cogsworth. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Caster sighed at the Isle of Stars within the Onimak Archipelago. The sky seemed peaceful and the air was sweet. Caster grimaced, "The crypt.... It's open yet.... No demons have emerged..... Something doesn't feel right....." he said. Caster looked to the crypt and sighed as he started down the dark stairwell, *What would you do Nightshade?* he thought sadly. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The master of the Exion was heavily aged... His abilities drained and his mind shredded to a pulp. Gidget glared at the shatter Exion, "I know you can speak. Roark and Nightshade made sure you at least had your mind," she said. The Exion looked up and glared at her, "Gidget Cogsworth.... A worthy adversary..... You may not have the powers of your mentors.... But the skills you wield alone...... You're dangerous. What you seek is scattered far and wide...... But I can give you one thing to help you," he said angrily. Gidget glared at him, "No tricks Awkright!" She growled. Awkright held up a hand, "I have no powers left..... I can't even grasp a sword....." he said. Gidget eyed the Exion wearily, "What do you have?" She asked. Awkright rose and held her hand. A magical aura engulfed Gidgets hand, "A new journey will begin for you. However... You can't do it alone. Find someone you know you can trust. The amulet I've made for you will guide you across realms to find what you seek the most. Good luck," he said sitting down. Gidget shook her head, "Oh no. You're coming with me!" She said. Awkright growled but Gidget held up her scythe to his throat, "I've gone through many realms to figure out what is needed. I'm not about to take the chance of being double crossed," she said. Awkright sighed smirking a little, "Then it looks like I'm in your company till you're satisfied," he said. ---------------------------------- Caster found himself in the Exion throne room and witnessed the deal between the girl and Awkright. Immediately Caster drew forth his shotgun and sent forth a massive fireball!! The girl turned and slashed the fireball apart and reappeared behind Caster with a knife around his throat. Caster smiled as his Black Fire Dragon Armor ignited and burned her hand. Caster turned and caught the girl by the throat and sighed as he readied to fire. With a small cry Gidget dropped her knife and Caster froze. Caster felt his grip tighten, "G-Gidget?" He choked. Many questions ran through his mind. Gidget ripped her arm from his grasp, "What are you doing here?" she growled. Caster frowned and looked at the shattered Exion Lord. Awkright rolled his eyes. Gidget rolled her eyes, "I can handle myself thank you. I have work to get done. I'm taking this slime as my hostage. There are things from the other realms I need to collect. He's merely one of the pieces," she said. Caster frowned, "I can’t let you walk out of here with someone like him. He may be heavily wounded to a point of no return but he still has influences," he said. Gidget growled, "I don't have to listen to you! You're not my family!" she yelled while swinging her scythe at him. Black flame's covered Caster's body as he caught the blade in mid-flight. Gidget's eyes widened as she sent a wave of magic through the scythe. The energy touched Caster's hand causing an explosion. Gidget smirked and pulled on her blade but it wouldn't budge! The smoke cleared and Caster stood unscathed, "You may have learned from Nightshade some impressive techniques but you're still far from defeating me or him. Which is why I don't have faith in you traveling alone with a former Exion Lord. Whether you like it or not… you've got me in your company as well," he said. Gidget glared at Caster obviously upset. Awkright rose to his feet and picked up a staff from the side of his throne. Caster eyed the Exion Lord, "I take it you're ok with my terms?" he asked. Awkright smiled coyly and nodded. "You are a respectable opponent and a worthy Syraic. I may have a distaste in your kind but I do have my honor in some pockets of my black heart. I can tolerate a little light in my life from time to time," Awkright said. Caster raised an eyebrow and saw Awkright's eyes shift from black to green. "It seems you took a little more of Roark's wisdom than I thought…" Caster said. Gidget looked from the demon to the blacksmith and scowled. Caster looked down at the girl and chuckled, "I guess we'll be on our way then," he said turned to leave. Awkright followed the man with a limp. Gidget crossed her arms, *This is not going according to plan….* she growled. This was going to be a very long journey. > A Fair Morning > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The first week was a nightmare! Awkright and Caster would not stop arguing of deals of power or how things should be running! Gidget had no idea that her life would have ended up becoming a troublesome. One morning after a long night between the old men Gidget left out on her own to explore. Gidget drew out her scythe and found a ravine. The small river sounded beautiful as the sun rose above the clouds. A little head poked up out of the water. It looked like a little river snake! Gidget giggled and sat at the edge, "Hi there little fella. How's your morning going?" she asked the snake. The snake merely stared at the girl as its tongue flicked out at her. Gidget sighed and set her scythe to the side as she listened to the water. The water seemed to carry a tune that flowed through the realm. The tune was soft in Gidgets mind. Gidget thought back to the palace… Thyme must be a little lonely since she left on her journey. She left without even giving anyone a good bye… Gidget pulled out the small scroll she had taken from Nightwalker and read the script once more. The scroll held instructions to resurrecting the dead. The spell was a little bit more complicated than Twilight's in Equestria… Mainly because she reanimated the dead to speak with them… This spell aloud the caster to fully bring someone back to life… Gidget's eyes stung with tears… She pulled out a broken horn from her pouch, "I don't know what else to do Glade… It's not fair what Nightwalker did to you… You promised me you'd come back!" she sobbed. The snake turned and went back underwater leaving Gidget alone with her sorrow. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The woman sat in the her garden a little ways from a ravine. She tended to her garden and eyed her home and the barrier that kept her hidden from prying eyes. A small hiss quipped from behind and the woman turned to see a small blue snake. The snake weaved back and forth in the water like a dance in the small pond. The woman smiled and knelt by the pond as she let out a hand to the snake. The snake swam up to the woman and coiled around her arm. "What is it my dear?" The woman asked. The snake looked up at the woman and it's eyes began to glow with a blue light. The woman saw through the snake's eyes and she saw the flashback of a crying girl… The aura around the girl startled the woman. She blinked causing the memory to fade. The woman stood and walked back to her home with the snake still coiled around her arm. The woman came out with a starry cloak and her eyes flashed hot pink, "Things are beginning to get rather interesting once again," she said heading for the ravine. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gidget lay on the ground with puffy eyes. The poor girl had cried every tear out of her body. She felt lonely and sad. The sound of the water being disturbed caused Gidget to bolt up and grab her scythe. A woman had crossed the small river and now stood only a couple of paces away from her. "W-who are you?" Gidget choked. The woman smiled and held out a hand. The little blue snake slithered down her arm and back into the water. Gidget watched the snake and looked back to the woman, "Is that your snake? Is this your land?" she asked. The woman shook her head, "Do not be afraid little one. This land is free to whomever roams it. I live a little whiles away yes. The snake is a dear friend of mine who left home with me a long time ago. I am merely a traveler. I am old. I do not have a name par say… But what I can tell you are the titles bestowed upon me through time. I am The Guardian of The Glades, or as some would call me… The Lady of Lies," she said. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Caster sat with an open fire playing a tune on his flute. Awkright looked at the sky sipping some coffee with his somewhat still functioning hand. Caster was waiting for the food over the fire to finish cooking. The Blacksmith stopped playing and sighed softly. Awkright looked up at the man with a curious gaze, "What's wrong Phoenix Lord?" he asked. Caster chuckled softly, "Lord is far to grand a title for me. I was just going to say fair morning… And… I wanted to apologize for the fighting," he said. Awkright raised an eyebrow while sipping his coffee. Caster took a deep breath, "I can't let go of the hate filled feelings I hold for you… But I can't hold onto them if I'm to help Gidget. I know what she's planning to do on this quest. Nightshade had warned me about the scroll she had taken after her encounter in the palace with Nightwalker and Alyra," he said. Awkright flinched at the mention of Nightwalker, "I hold no ill will towards you. For now I'm as useless as a manikin. If what your trying to say is a favor of truce then you have my approval. I just want to get back to where I belong. I want no part in this battle," he said. Caster's eyes widened, "You've got to be joking me. Just like that you're ready to agree with me?!" he said. Awkright took a big gulp of his coffee and nodded while pouring himself some more. Caster smirked, "Why are you so willing to help the girl?" he asked. Awkright set his coffee down and stretched his limbs as much as he could. Popping noises could be heard as he stretched, "I'm merely helping a broken heart. She has no place in such a dark place. I may wish to rule but causing suffering to someone not of my place is not my game. I am not Roark nor am I Nightwalker. Both have a darker heart than I do. Even I have my limitations of darkness," he said. Caster nodded slowly, "Can I get a cup of what you're drinkin?" he asked. Awkright chuckled softly as he poured the man of glass. The two sat and waited for Gidget to return reveling in the tune's Caster played with his flute. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gidget stared at The Lady with wide eyes, "What kind of title it that?! The Lady of Lies?!" she screeched. The Lady sighed and sat down. Gidget raised an eyebrow, "What do you want lady?" she asked. The Lady smiled softly, "You don't belong in this realm for one. For two my friend Qui here thought you needed some company," she said. Gidget looked from The Lady to the little snake weaving through the water playfully. Gidget frowned, "I just miss someone really close… Do you miss anybody?" she asked The Lady. The Lady looked at Gidget and smiled softly her silver eyes looking distant. Gidget lowered her eyes, "I'm sorry… I didn't mean to upset you," she said. The Lady smiled softly, "No it's alright. I do have people I miss," she said. Qui slithered out of the water and slithered up The Lady's arm again rubbing against her. The Lady looked Gidget up and down, "You remind me of my son. I've never met him but I know who he is. He's gone right now though. I heard he's very busy of late. I miss my lover. He died long ago defending these lands, and of course I miss my dear and loving sister," she said. "I'm sorry you lost your husband, and your sister… Why don't you go and try and find your son?" Gidget asked. The Lady laughed softly. The laugh left Gidget with a warm and fuzzy feeling in her heart, "Why are you called The Lady of Lies?" she asked. The Lady smiled softly, "My lover and I were never married. We didn't have time for marriage, but we loved each other very much. He was a warrior and defender of the lands while I was a traveler. People believe I bring bad luck to others. For instance my lover's death. He died on the land he swore to protect… He tried to keep something contained but had no power over at the time… Our son however did what he could not. My abilities sustain life. While his were holy and meant to fend off dangers. I disappeared when people needed me most… I told them I could help in times of danger. I returned to the place where my lover had died and found no trace of my son or him. Only one stranger had greeted me and told me of the catastrophe that had occurred. The people who knew of me turned away from me. So I stayed on this island here where no one would think to look for me," she said. Gidget smiled, "I don't think that's a good reason to alienate you. You didn't know. I also think you should find your son where ever he is. I'm sure he'd love to meet you. If he's a great of man as you've been told I have no doubt in my mind he'll forgive you," she said. The Lady smiled, "Thank you me dear… For my son… I'll think about it… Maybe there's some good I can still do while I'm still breathing. I have a present for you Gidget Cogsworth," she said smiling. Gidget's eyes widened hearing the woman say her name. The Lady smiled and turned to her snake friend and whispered something to it. The snake quickly turned and looked at her as it's tongue flicked. The Lady smiled and nodded. The snake as emotionless as one could be actually seemed a little sad. "Keep an eye on her for me Qui. Please," The lady said. Qui seemed a little different as it slid from The Lady's body and onto Gidget's. The Lady smiled brightly, "This will not be our only meeting Ms. Cogsworth. I know that which you seek and I know how far your quest will take you. Be careful and stay true to who you are. The very fate of the realms may depend on this quest. Farewell," she said disappearing into a spiral of bright silver stars. Gidget sat there and looked from the snake to the spot where The Lady had left and smiled, "Thank you miss. I won't let you down," she said as she headed back to camp. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Lady appeared back at her cottage and she turned to see a man cloaked in leather armor, "You know she's right Quaria," he said. The Lady smiled brightly and walked into her house with the man following behind her. "Are you just going to sit on the sidelines again? What would Ni-!" Quaria turned and smacked the man. The man stepped back and rubbed his face chuckling. The man's grey hair and facial hair reflected the years of wisdom bestowed upon him. "Don't talk to me like you've been in my shoes Black Wind. I know very well what he would say. I am not one of your students. If you were as wise as you claim you would take your place with the sentients! But you continue to travel and learn at a whim disregarding the responsibilities of the realms. Why have you returned after so long?!" Quaria said. The Black Wind chuckled, "As elegant and poisonous as ever. I was merely visiting my dear. I'm not allowed to see an old friend?" he asked. Quaria snorted at the word friends, "I did not come here to scold you. I merely came to bring you news," he said. Quaria turned eyeing the man, "News?" she asked. The Black Wind nodded a dark expression crossing his face, "You will be needed. He alone cannot defend the realms any more. Darker tidings are coming. One that could unravel the very existence of what he worked so hard to achieve. The time for hiding is at an end. My time to join the fight has come," he said. Quaria took a step back, "So it's come to that… I will have my answer if the girl decides correctly at the end… I wish you nothing more than the best of luck. Take care… Seyron Calim," she said as the man left her home with nothing more than the wind whipping behind his every step. > The Joining Of Arms > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The trip through the portal was a success. To Twilight's surprise no one followed after her, *Twinblade.... Thank you...* she thought. Twilight stood in her human form and looked around. To her surprise not much had changed in Canterlot Highs World. The Alicorn Princess wondered if Nightwalkers darkness had ever touched this world too. Twilight shook her head as she ran into the school. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ The school was lively. Sunset walked into the gym where many students were creating their own banners for the upcoming Canterlot High music event. Sunset saw the girls Applebloom, Sweetie Belle, and Scootaloo paintings their banner and grabbed a paint brush smiling, "Mind if I help?" she asked smiling. Applebloom looked up and frowned, "No thanks we're good," she said bluntly. Sunset frowned lowering her eyes, "Oh... Ok," she said sadly. The mane 5 of Canterlot High saw Sunset and gave a sigh. Pinkie rolled her eyes to her and friends and smiled, "Sunset Shimmer!! OVER HEEEREE!" she called. At the call of her name a lot of the students turned and scowled. Sunset frowned and continued towards her acquaintances. Principal Celestia and Vice Principal Luna both took to the stage smiling wide. They took up the microphone ready to speak when Twilight came running into the gym. Every smiled at the sight. Even Sunset Shimmer felt pleased to see the princess. Everyone's expression changed when they saw Twilight. The mane 5 and Sunset ran to Twilight with worried expressions. They all whispered and frowned at the sight. Twilight smiled looking at her friends and sighed, "I need your help..." she took a breath. The girls all smiled ,"We're ready for anything you need!" they said. Twilight nodded and pointed at Sunset, "Sunset Shimmer I need you," she said. Every-one blinked and cried out in surprise. Sunset seemed shocked and a little distraught. Twilight sighed, "You're the only one I know with as much extensive knowledge regarding magic besides myself. I have a lot to explain to you," she said. The girls all frowned and followed Twilight out of the gym and into the music room. For a little while Twilight explained the events of Roark, the union of the multiple worlds and even the different abilities they acquired during the adventure. Sunset nodded at every word, "I've seen Lady Star Bright only once. But I never imagined that she was just as important as the princesses. I just thought she was an ambassador from another country. To think there are other places just as incredible as equestria... The Sentients.... Even this.... Nightshade... What do you need me to do?" she asked. Twilight took a breath, "I need to you to journey with me to other realms and learn a way to break Nightwalker's control over Nightshade," she said. Sunset nodded, "Is there anything else I should know about?" she asked. Twilight tapped her chin slightly, "Not that I can think of," she said. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gidget woke up yawning loudly. Qui was coiled up next to her sleeping soundly. There was music being played softly outside. Gidget threw on a large shirt and walked out to see Caster playing a small glass flute. It was really shiny which meant he just created it or he really loves that flute. Caster stopped when he saw her step out, "Good morning little one. Any dreams of interest?" he chuckled. Gidget rolled her eyes and sat on down on the log across from him. The Phoenix user was quite the talker. Even though he acts all foolhardy Caster can be quite the fighter if needed. Caster continued playing his flute. Gidget frowned, "So... Any idea where we can head next? I mean... You are the one who said you wanted to help, and you also know this realm more than I do!" she said. Caster continued playing smiling at every note. Gidget growled, "If we're to really help the realms we need to get a move on!!" she yelled. Caster opened one eye and sighed softly, "You.. Are too impatient. What you're trying to do is complicated... And dangerous. I don't even know where to begin regarding this "spell" you're looking for," he said. Awkright came out of his tent, "I may have a suggestion. Since the spell is meant to take care of what's been lost... Why not look for something that once belonged to The Gallant. If it's something to bring something close to him back it might work," he said. Caster frowned, "Unfortunately I don't have many things of his left. At least nothing really worthwhile to him," he said. Awkright frowned, "There must be something in your collection," he said. Caster heaved a heavy sigh, "Well... There may be one thing... But I'm not entirely sure. It's most likely on The Isle Of Night. But it requires an advanced amount of energy to find it. I don't know anyone skilled enough in arcane style to find the item," he said. Gidgets eyes lit up as she squealed with joy, "I think I know just the pony!" she said smiling. Awkright facepalmed himself dreading the presence of a pony. Caster shrugged, "A pony... A pony... Sure why not," he said. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight had returned to the Sentient Palace with Sunset Shimmer in tow. The two found Star Bright waiting in the medical bay. Sunset was in human form while Twilight was in her pony form. Star Bright smiled seeing the young ponies while rubbing Ninyn's head. Sunset frowned, "This is more than I could have possibly imagined! I mean... All these different worlds. All the different magic! Why hasn't any of this ever been recorded?" she asked exasperated. Twilight smiled and shook her head softly. Star Bright let a soft sigh and turned her attention to the girls, "Because for a time we, the sentients, thought it would be best that the realms knew nothing of one another. It seemed that only increased the danger for everyone. Three of my dearest friends are gone because we shut ourselves away from everyone. Now the realms are finding out what they can really do and what is really out there to explore. Little by little more realms and other ways of life are being discovered. It's all thanks to Nightshade and the first unity of the prime realms," she said. Sunset nodded, "That sounds a lot like a lot of responsibility for only a few to take care of... If there's anything I can do like Twilight says, I'll do it," she said. Star Bright smiled softly as a little bit of color returned to her eyes. Twilight cleared her throat, "Well... Lady Star Bright... Have you and Ozrick been able to think of a way to contain our magic through our bodies in Nightshade's realm?" she asked. Star Bright nodded leading the girls to Alchelms shop. Alchelm was busy looking over some scrolls while Ozrick was leaning on the table completely exhausted. Alchelm looked up as the trio came in, "Welcome my comrades, welcome. I suppose you've come for the equipment?" he asked. Star Bright nodded, "Yes Alchelm. I see Ozrick worked himself to the bone to create them. What have you got for the girls?" she asked. Alchelm nodded and pulled a lamp down by its chain opening a stair well leading below. Star Bright looked to the Ice Elemental and raised an eyebrow. Alchelm smirked, "Raven," he said. Star Bright rolled her eyes and smiled. Twilight frowned hearing the name leaving Sunset full of questions. Then again... What could possibly surprise her anymore. Alchelm led them below to a larger room completely surrounded by stone, "This is my personal bunker where I experiment. Ozrick and I had to contain what little amount of pure harmonized magic as we could down here or it would've erupted all across the palace, and quite possibly the rest of the realms!" he said. Star Bright nodded. Twilight's eyes widened, "Um... Alchelm... Just how powerful is the magic you've contained?" she asked. Alchelm turned with a cold stare, "It's quite more powerful than you or your princesses Ms. Sparkle. Even grander than when they bestowed their powers unto you against Tirek," he said. Twilight paled a little and nodded. Alchelm picked up two sets of gauntlets and with a wave of his hand he pulled forth a set of armor, "This set of equipment is completely formulated from harmonized magic. It will be able to feed off of the energy in The Gallant's realm and feed into your body's the energy necessary to cast any magic you need. They also provide an offensive magic that will match either your talent or personality, and if I'm correct-" he said handing them the armor. Star Bright looked to Twilight and changed the pony into her human form. Alchelm opened a small room, "If you would please as to kindly change into the garments need for the armor ladies," he said. Sunset blushed a little and walked into the room with Twilight in tow. Star Bright gave Alchelm a skeptical look. The Elemental merely shrugged, "Forgive me but it is necessary," he said. The girls came out with the armor on looking a little uncomfortable. Alchelm waved his hand causing the armor to fit to the girls specific size. The armor soon began to spark and glow rapidly increasing in color. Soon the once shining silver armor changed on each of them. Sunset now wore a dark orange and red armor with flames sprouting from her armbands. Twilights armor was now dark violet with a magenta tinge to the middle making it slightly brighter than the middle. Waves of arcane power surged through Twilights armbands. Alchelm smiled, "Excellent. I was correct. The Armor and gauntlets switched the color and personality of each user. Since both of you were obviously adept in magic the gauntlets formed into arm bands giving you full control of hand movements. This is most excellent indeed," he said. Twilight and Sunset looked at each other and smiled. Both girls giggled at each other and bowed to Alchelm, "Thank you kindly sir," they said. Alchelm nodded smiling, "The pleasure is all mine," he said. A sudden shockwave shook the palace and Star Bright shivered, "How could and Exion have gotten in?!" she cried. Alchelm soon became engulfed in armor and ran up the stairs with the girls in tow heading for the throne room. The company came to a halt to see Gidget, Caster, and Awkright lying on the floor. Star Bright was breathing heavily seeing the trio, "G-gidget darling?! W-what are you doing coming out of that realm?!" she exclaimed. Gidget stood up dusting herself off, "I was researching ideas on how to help the realms..." she said bluntly. Caster stood helping Awkright up slowly to his feet. The Exion grunted and groaned as pain coursed through his body. Alchelm raised a lance made out of ice pointing it at Awkright. Gidget quickly stood in front of Awkright, "Calm down Mr. Freeze. He's on my side," she said. Alchelm eyed Gidget closely and looked back to Awkright slowly lowering his lance, "You do know what he is correct?" he asked. Gidget nodded, "I've already been over this talk with Caster," she said. Alchelms armor dissolved eyeing the Exion Lord, "Should you betray her... You will suffer the consequences," he growled. Awkright rolled his eyes waving his limp arms around. Star Bright huffed and stood between the groups, "Well Gidget... What are you trying to do?" she asked the young girl. Gidget took a deep breath looking to the Sentient and the girls. She couldn't tell anyone her true motives but she could say a little. The young girl smiled and began to tell her tale. > A Rocky Start > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Three days since the party joined arms Sunset Shimmer and Twilight had both started consistently studying all energies and styles they encountered throughout Onimak. Awkright was down below deck reading minor stories while Caster was at the helm of the ship. They were only a couple of hours away from The Isle Of Night and there first step towards saving there captured friend. Sunset looked around after setting down her journal looking for Gidget. The young creator was intriguing. The young girl hardly ever sat still and her aura of capability exceeded many young fillies at her age. Looking up towards the sky Sunset spotted the girl hanging off the side of the crow's nest. Sunsets eyes widened, "Hey! Gidget are you alright?!" she cried out. Gidget began to fall as she seemed to lose grip on the nests edge plummeting rapidly down to the deck. Sunset screeched and jumped over a railing and catching the girl with a wave of her hand. A yellow magical aura surrounded Gidget as she squealed and giggled, "H-hey! Ha ha! You weren't supposed to catch me! I was testing out some new glide gear I had sewn onto my clothing. It clips to my back and looks like an extra layer of clothing till I need it," she said exposing the flaps of leather. Sunset let out a deep sigh and scowled, "You shouldn't be experimenting with equipment on a ship. I could understand if we were in a wind room, but were out in the middle of the ocean. Not even just your average ocean. An ocean, in a realm, that we hardly know anything about!" she said. Caster clicked a little switch on the floor below the helm. A medium sized staff came out of a little pocket below the helm causing it to stick in place. Caster smiled, "Pirate Cruise Control," he chuckled walking down to the girls. Sunset was a little frustrated with Gidget but Caster shrugged off the notion, "I hate to be the bearer of bad news but Sunset Shimmer is right. While were out on the ocean heading for The Isle of Night anything could happen. Dark depth Exion can rise up and snatch you out of the air. The Aura that protects this ship only covers the ship. Anybody aboard the ship is vulnerable to attack," he explained. Gidget stuck her tongue out at the Phoenix Smith, "I could've handled myself. I handled myself pretty well heading into the depths of hell," she said pouting. Caster groaned, "Ok for one that was ground battle. The design of your glide flaps won't allow you to brawl in mid-flight," he said. Sunset blinked looking at the large man, "How old are you again sir?" she asked sheepishly. Caster held up a finger keeping her focused, "Head down to my work shop and work a little bit more. We'll be arriving at The Isle soon," he said to Gidget. Gidget scowled and began to trudge down the steps to the lower deck. Caster shook his head wiping his hand over his face, "The young are getting more and more cocky as the days go by..." he said sitting against the railing. Sunset chuckled, "That's how we all see it. It's part of growing I suppose," she said. Caster nodded leaning his head back letting the wind bowl over his short hair, "I suppose you're right. We were all that age at one time I suppose... To answer your question, I'm thirty-two years old. I've just learned a lot since I was a little boy and my cousin, as dim witted as he is sometimes, helped me along the way. I now lead and watch over the main continent of the realm. Can't say I'm really happy with the position, but I am proud I get to be the one to help mold the path for a better future for our people," he said. Sunset giggled, "Well Mr. Leader, why aren't you back on the continent if it's so important?" she asked. Caster leaned to the side looking at her, "Well... The realms are in danger and that cheeky girl down in my work shop needs help knocking the villain controlling my cousin back to the pit from once he came," he said. Sunset laughed warmly, "Sounds like a lot of responsibility," she said. Caster shrugged, "Honestly it comes with the title of being a hero. It's just an occupational hazard," he chuckled. Sunset smiled as Caster went back to the helm, "Occupational hazard..." she murmured. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Twilight was meditating in the lower decks. The young princess was practicing her magic focusing on the items she had floating around her. Awkright limped into the room eyeing the princess hungrily but held himself back. The Exion felt surprised how well he was getting used to the upper world. Twilight took a deep breath opening one eye to see the Exion, "What do you want?" she asked. Awkright chuckled walking forward on his staff, "Nothing really. Just curious to actually watch another inhabitant of another realm practice their art. I can sense you have touched the darkness of your realm and control it quite well. I'm impressed Princess Sparkle," he said. Twilight scowled, "I don't mind a compliment here and there but hearing it from you is suspicious. Also, I had to practice it a lot more when I was around my friends. Working with magic requires knowing both sides of the table. I almost didn't make it out of the experiment alive..." she said. Awkright shrugged leaning against a post, "I suppose what should really matter to a wizard such as yourself is that you're here today. It was a lesson and an accomplishment for yourself. Don't let failed attempts bring you down, learn from the mistakes and grow," he said. Twilight frowned, "I appreciate the lesson but... Why are you telling me this?" she asked quietly. Awkright rolled his eyes, "I suppose it's the shard of sanity that was left in Roarks mind that was left in me. I hardly know anything except experience. Heed my words and follow their meanings," he said walking back up the stairs. Twilight sat dumbfounded taking in the Exions words. Was he being sincere, or was he just putting thoughts in her head? The pony girl sighed softly unsure of what to think. This realm was almost completely different from Equestria and Canterlot High. She sighed softly closing her eyes beginning to meditate, *Oh sweet Celestia... What have I gotten myself into?* she thought. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Isle of Night, it's blacks sands and dark mountain terrain stood before the odd company of five. Caster sighed softly, "Well the easy part's over. Now we-!" Awkright had jumped over the edge onto the beach. Caster scowled and jumped down after him. The girls all looked at each other and shrugged as they began to climb off the ship. Awkright looked around taking in the musty air as his eyes began to glow slightly. The Exion Lords arms began to straighten as dark energy began to seep from the ground flowing into his body. Awkright felt the energy fill his body and chuckled as it dissipated and fell away from his body. The Exion Lord flexed his hands but still could not use his arms properly. Caster frowned, "What was with the little show?" he asked. Awkright turned pointing one finger towards the other. Caster blinked, "You can use your arms now?" he asked. Awkright nodded, "I can channel some of my energy through my arms again, but I still require aid. The raw energy that had been left here was able to revive some of my bodily functions. When I leave I will be useless once more. However, I am able to do one thing to aid us in our quest. Raise my hand towards the mountains," he said. Caster frowned activating his phoenix style keeping a separation between physical contact. Awkright focused his mind and what little energy he had as Caster raised his arms towards the mountains. The thick mist around them began to swirl and shift as it rose above and beyond the mountain tops. Caster blinked as the girls joined them, "How were you able to do that? The mist is practically a living being here," he said as he lowered the Exions arms. Awkright sighed rotating his shoulders. A sickly popping noise could be heard as his arms popped back into place. "The mist is made from dark matter. Raw dark matter. It can only be moved by an Exions hand or ability," he said. Gidget cheered aloud causing everyone to stare at her. Gidget giggled softly, "You two actually worked together and didn't even argue!" she said. Awkright chuckled while Caster's flaming armor began to crackle and grow darker in color. Sunset and Twilight both started laughing, *You know... It may not be what I'm used to like in Equestria... But it still has the hearty feeling I get when I'm around my friends,* Twilight thought happily. Caster growled and deactivated his abilities, "Come on. We've gotta deal with some things before we get to Nightshade's cave. This island has more to show besides it's abnormal terrain," he said. Awkright nodded picking up his staff. Sunset raised an eyebrow, "What's hiding on the island?" she asked. Caster turned towards her then looked at Awkright. Awkright sighed, "Some older... Lesser renown Exion live on the island that have been mutated by the constant exposure to the dark matter in the island. The only reason any of you can stand here, or Nightshade for the matter while he was training, is due to the fact that we're radiating enough energy or magic to counteract the dark matters assault," he said. Sunset nodded, "And if we use all of our magic?" she asked. Awkright stared at her, "So long as we're around you can't be touched," he said. The ground began to quake and Caster sighed, "Alright time to get a move on. If we don't... We're gonna have company," he said. Gidget gestured towards the ship with a questioning look. Caster chuckled, "The enchantment set upon the ship is still in effect even though we're not aboard her. The beasts won't be able to pierce the barrier so they probably won't bother it much," he said. Gidget looked to the boat then back at her company and smiled with enthusiasm. Caster led the way through a small crevice and into a large tunnel, "Twilight, or Sunset, whichever, Think you could shed make some light for us?" he asked. Awkright slightly tapped the man, "What?!" he said irritably. Awkright frowned, "Let me lead the way. I can see quite well in the dark. Plus... The creature stirring in this tunnel wouldn't be so nice if we woke it up with the light," he said. The man groaned, "Fine..." he said. With Awkright in the lead they avoided small crevices and a giant scaly tail. Gidget looked around the island as they passed. Craters could be seen around the area. The distinct smell of decay surrounded most of them. Awkright stopped at the base of a mountain that curved up and Gidget stick by my side, and you girls do the same. Caster's Zodiac Style should be suitable enough for him to climb by himself. This cliff can be a bit slippery. After Gidget and I make it to the top you girls follow so Caster can catch you if needed," he said. Caster scowled as he watched Awkright and Gidget begin to climb, *You seem to care a little too deeply about this girl Awkright...* he thought. As Awkright and Gidget continued up the air seemed to thicken. Gidget found it a little hard to breath. At the top Awkright dropped himself against the side of the mountain breathing heavily and wheezing, "I hate being mortal," he groaned. Gidget smiled and turned towards the edge, "Alright we made it! Twilight! Sunset! Come on up!" she cried. The little girls cries echoed through the air and a deep gurgling roar could be heard from above. Awkright quickly rose but was quickly knocked down by a large silky arm! Gidget turned with her armor activating. The hulking mess of a creature looked at the girl as its tendrils lathered across its mouth eyeing the girl. Gidget's scythe quickly formed in her hand as she swung out at the creature. The creature easily shifted out of the way and caught the girls leg with its tendrils slamming her into the ground repeatedly. Gidget cried out as she heard Caster call from below. The creature threw her to the edge of cliff opening its slimy maw. Gidget started to rise grabbing a small sliver of rock as the creature slammed itself towards her. Gidget stepped to the side and stabbed the creature in the eye with the sliver. The creature reacted by slapping the girl hard blasting her off the cliff. The strike knocked the wind out of Gidget as she plummeted from the sky down to the cavern below. She hit the side of a mountain hard bouncing to the ground. The sound of her arm and leg cracking rebounded in her mind. Gidget tried taking in a breath but the pain quickly washed over her and she blacked out. > A Memory > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Gidget woke up wrapped in bandages from the waist up. She tried to rise but a wave of nausea washed over her quickly causing her to vomit on the side of her resting spot. "Careful now miss. You haven't fully recovered yet. You took quite a beating from that Exion," a male voice spoke. Gidget looked around and she saw a man sitting with a half bandaged face with a tattoo lining down the visible side of his face. Gidget blinked, "W-Who are you? And... Where are my friends?" she asked. The man stood going to what looked like a sink limping as he walked. "Your friends I believe are still looking for you in the caverns across from here. I have left a trail for them to find this place in due time, and to answer your other question. I am Slate. I was once wielded by Revan Arrow after Shin Ryu had been stolen from him. Now I reside here on The Isle of Night in peace. I enjoyed the times I had here," he said. Gidget blinked, "Your weapon?! And you were wielded by Nightshade?!" she cried. Slate nodded, "Yes. When I was broken Revan reformed the hilt and remaining piece of my blade with a piece of ore he found while training here. Though I was made whole I never was quite able to properly heal in my humanoid form," he said. Gidget frowned, "Why didn't you remain with Nightshade?" she asked. Slate put a glass of water on the side table next to Gidget, "It all started during the battle I had been shattered. It was my decision and request after being reformed. Revan didn't argue and accepted my terms. I was to remain here for any who needed guidance or aid. I am merely a post in the road leading others in the right direction," he said. Gidget blinked, "I'm looking for a way to save Nightshade. He's been captured and taken control of by a dark being. I need something of his to help snap him out of the beings control," she said. Slate turned towards her his grey eye turning dark red, "Do not try and hide any details Ms. Cogsworth. You're hiding your true intentions from the rest of your company and it will be a very high price for what you wish to do. I understand your feelings and I do not think your reasons are for the wrong, but you should take into consideration the events you might put into action if you succeed in your quest," he said. Gidget paled looking into the man's eye, "I... I can't tell them... Even if I told them they wouldn't understand... It's not fair..." she whimpered. Slate's eye reverted back to stone grey as he sat back in his chair taking a sip of his own glass. Gidget looked up sadly, "Please... I know it's a tough choice... But please... Can you help me?" she asked. Slate sighed softly, "First I must show you what I was told to show to any who came before them," he said tapping her forehead. Gidgets eyes widened as a flash of light lit the cave. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gidget stood with Slate at the edge of the Isle of Night. Gidget looked around curiously eyeing the area. There was ship debris all throughout the sea's waters. Fire still burned across some of the planks. A figure was swimming out of the water with something on his back. Gidget ran over trying to help and saw that it was a younger Nightshade and... Ninyn! A cold wave crashed through her mind watching the scene. Ninyn looked so frail and small. The boy was pale and Nightshade was performing CPR on him. Ninyn soon started coughing and spitting up water. "That's it, that's it! Come on little guy!" Nightshade said. The young boy started crying and screaming as if in great pain. Ninyn rolled over clutching his stomach crying fiercely getting sand all over his ripped clothing and blood covered skin. Nightshade frowned pulling the boy into his arms, "Hey it's ok... It's ok little guy you're safe now... I promise..." he said rubbing Ninyn's back. Ninyn tried pushing away but Nightshade over powered the boy's strength keeping him in his arms. Nightshade rose to his feet and began walking back towards the direction of the cave Slate had put Gidget in. Ninyn soon passed out in Nightshade's arm during the trip. Nightshade sighed pulling out Slate, "Come on my friend I need your aid," he said. The large grey blade soon took human form and a more complete healthy version of Slate stood at Nightshade's side, "What can I help you with sir?" he asked. Nightshade smiled, "Go grab some onion and those herbs we found last week on the other side of the island to me. I'm gonna start healing the boys wounds. I'm going to need something to restore color to his body and drain any excess fluids from his body. The ship he was on was a ship for cargo. When you get back I'll return to shore and see if there's anything I can salvage from the depths," he said. Slate nodded, "Yes sir. Right away," he said. Nightshade turned towards Ninyn, "And Slate hurry back... We're probably going to have company very soon," he said. Slate eyed Nightshade closely and nodded as he walked out the cave entrance. Nightshade sighed heavily, "What a life I live huh dad?" he asked aloud. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Another flash and Gidget was soon back in the cave entrance looking at a oddly discolored Slate. Gidget frowned, "Is everything alright?" she asked. Slate coughed and wheezed a little looking up as he drank his glass of water. Gidget frowned watching the man as he downed another glass of water until his color returned. "Forgive me. It's been quite some time since I've used that technique. It drains a lot of the energy I've been imbued with. Master Revan made sure I could recharge and teach others the lessons they need to know before carrying on," he said. Gidget nodded slowly, "Is there any way I can help?" she asked. Slate chuckled softly, "I have one more memory that I can help you. The only thing I ask of you is to learn from the memories," he said. With another tap on the forehead Gidget spiraled into a void. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- It was darker than she had seen the island in the last memory. There was the sound of energy blasts and people screaming in the distance. Gidget ran fast towards the spectacle. She saw Caster's fire and a counter attack of green lightning and fire! Caster lay against the side of a mountain pinned by a bronze sword through his shoulder. A man with short brown hair stood holding a black blade with green writing on the blade! The man held Shin Ryu!! "At last I've got you pinned where I need you. It's time to say good bye to the resistance!" the man cackled. A woman was screaming bloody murder and a young man was knocked lying unconscious on the ground near the beach. Obviously these were Nightshade's other comrades during his fighting in this realm. Gidget eyed the battle curiously. A white blast hit the man square in the back and he fell off the mountain dropping Shin Ryu! Gidget caught site of Nightshade dashing across the cavern wall catching the blade in midflight. The young warrior landed on his feet pulling the bronze sword free of Caster's body. "Sorry to keep you waiting guys, but you know the story. The hero of the hour always arrives in the nick of time!" Nightshade said smiling. Caster stared wide eyed at his cousin in disbelief, "Wha-?!" Nightshade held up a hand silencing him, "Now's not the time. Let me handle Trenox," he said as his eyes turned gold. The man named Trenox jumped up high glaring at Nightshade, "HOW DARE YOU!!" he roared. Nightshade rolled his eyes and threw the bronze blade at the raging man. Trenox caught the blade and lunged at Nightshade. Nightshade drew forth Slate and blocked the first strike and came across the back with Shin Ryu knocking Trenox back. Trenox growled and sent a blast at Nightshade but another white blast deflected Trenox's blast! "Sorry dude but I can't let you harm big bro's friends!" A small voice called out. Trenox turned to see a young man with short black hair with pine green eyes! Trenox turned to Nightshade, "A son?" he scoffed. Nightshade smiled and kicked the man in the face hard knocking down the chasm and jumping down after him. Trenox landed on his back hard coughing up blood. The man glared at Nightshade with utter rage. Nightshade smiled, "Sorry to disappoint you bro, but I'm no dad and you're not an uncle. That there was Ninyn Yamanakou. I found him amongst a ship wreckage. He's my adopted younger brother," he said smiling. Trenox roared and slashed forward with his blade but Nightshade easily blocked it and drove Trenox into the side of the mountain. Swiftly turning Nightshade brought Shin Ryu forward running Trenox through the abdomen pinning him to the mountain! Trenox roared in agony as Shin Ryu's abilities burned away at his insides! Nightshade growled, "You shouldn't take things that don't belong to you bro. Shin Ryu is very angry with how you've used him," he snarled. Trenox laughed as Nightshade pulled the blade free kicking the man to the ground. "More silent than the night... Heh... And far deadlier than ever before... Almost like a shade. You've changed Revan," he chuckled. Nightshade looked at Trenox then at Shin Ryu and Slate and took a deep breath, "I may have changed... But I did it for the one's I cared about and the future I wish to bring to this world," he said. Trenox spat at him trying to grasp his blade, "I and Lord Bane curse your name. The name of Revan Arrow is nothing but a disgrace to the Arrow name!" he choked. Nightshade smiled softly, "Then no longer shall I remain Revan Arrow. From this day forth I debut my name to this island and your analysis. I am now Nightshade The Gallant. Sworn enemy of Bane and his exion armies. I am there undoing," he said. Trenox grabbed his blade but Nightshade's eyes flickered with light as he brought his foot up kicking Trenox in the face. The sound of bone cracking could be heard and Trenox no longer moved. Ninyn, Caster and the others slowly joined Nightshade in the chasm holding their weapons at the ready. They saw Trenox lying on the ground speechless. Nightshade turned putting Shin Ryu in its rightful place on his hip, "Don't worry he's very much alive. I only knocked him out," he said. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Moments later Nightshade had guided his friends to the cave Gidget herself was resting in and helped them load up their ship with supplies and resources. The crew immediately welcomed Ninyn as family. Before Nightshade left he drew forth Slate bringing him into human form, "Listen Slate... I have to return to the battle without you... One day I'm sure you'll be needed here... I need you to stay behind. I noticed after our battle with Trenox you were cracked. You are an excellent weapon and friend," he said. Slate smiled and nodded, "I understand sir... I promise I'll continue on. You have my word that I'll help all I can who venture through," he said. Nightshade smiled and nodded, "Thank you my friend. Farewell," he said. Gidget and Slate watched as Nightshade began to leave the island and the cheers of excitement of a new battle ahead for the headstrong warriors. The surroundings began to fade away and Gidget returned to the presence. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Gidget looked at Slate who was yet again sweating heavily. Gidget looked at the man and frowned and thought back to Nightshade's words and abilities during the memories. She stood slowly and put her hand out focusing on the energy around them. Slate blinked and looked at the girl and felt a tingly feeling as he shifted from human form to sword form! Gidget dropped to her knees breathing heavily, "Alright... That's step 1," she said. > The Truth > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Caster led Awkright and the pony girls through the chasms of the island, "If I'm right I bet I know where Gidgets at. I know she isn't dead," he said. Twilight and Sunset both looked at each other and to the men ahead frowning. Caster was absolutely furious and everyone could tell. The Phoenix warriors flames kept flashing on and off. Coming around the bend they found Slate's cave. Gidget was lying on the ground unconscious and a grey blade that had a great crack down by the hilt lay next to her. Caster's eyes widened, "Slate..." he said as he ran forward picking the girl up. Gidget was asleep and breathing lightly with a light fever brewing, "Twilight I need you to start making some broth. I'm pretty sure you've studied a bit with that zebra in equestria right?" he asked. Twilight blinked in surprise at his knowledge of Zecora and nodded, "I know a little but yes. I'll get on it right away," she said. Sunset smiled and dug through the trunk at the side of Gidgets bed and brought out some bowls and pots. Soon the two had a steady cooking broth going. Awkright sat outside keeping an eye out for any exion. The feeling seemed quite unnatural to the lord and he shuddered at the thought of his fellow brethren hunting him down and devouring what was left of his hollowed body. Caster had taken Slate and began examining his details. Gidget began to stir at the sound of their company, "Hey..." she rasped. Immediately Twilight and Caster were at her side with worried looks. Gidget blinked, "I'm alright! Geez!" she said. Twilight and Caster sighed, "Well you fell and when we got to the spot we thought you fell you we're gone. We only found you because I was able to remember the way through the chasm. It's been so long since I've been in this place... But the way never changed. It seems Slate was able to rescue you," he said. Gidget nodded sitting up. Sunset brought a small sup to the young girl, "Here drink this broth. It should make you feel better after a little while. Twilight made it with her knowledge of herbs from Zecora," she said. Gidget smiled taking the cup gratefully, "Thank you," she said taking a sip of the broth. A cold feeling washed through Gidget. She could feel the bones in her body slowly molding together from the broth's effects, but the after effect left great amounts of pain. Gidgets face twisted as the effects continued and tears streamed down her face. The others frowned watching, "I'm sorry... I forgot about that little detail," she said. The young girl smiled weakly, "Don't worry I'll be fine," she chirped. The others nodded slowly and continued with what they were planning. Caster set down Slate and began going through the other trunks and closets set up within the cave. "It doesn't seem like Nightshade left anything here after all," Caster said. Gidget rolled her eyes, "Sparky! He left the sword!" she called irritably. Caster looked from Gidget to the sword and groaned, "I'm an idiot..." he said. Awkright snickered at the front of the cave. Caster growled, "I heard that you walking talking mannequin!" he yelled. Awkright rolled his eyes, "Whatever. Just hurry up and finish. We need to hurry. I have a feeling more Exion will be looking for us since they can smell my presence," he said. Caster nodded, "We're not leaving for another day unfortunately. Gidgets injuries are a bit to serious for her to moved right now," he said. Awkright growled, "Alright fine... Pony girls!" he growled. Twilight and Sunset scowled and walked out to Awkright, "Please address us by our real names...." Twilight said. Sunset sighed, "Well if we're not moving I suppose we can practice molding the energy here into magic," she said. Awkright nodded, "Precisely why I called you. You're going to tap into the negative energy here and put up some illusions and some wards to keep our scents clear of any Exion hunting us. The beasts that reside here will leave us be yes, but I believe other Exion are hunting us because of me. I in technicalities have betrayed my kind," he explained. Twilight frowned, "The negative energy? Are you serious?!" she shouted. Awkright glared at her, "Keep your voice down!" he growled. Twilight flinched at the tone in his voice. For a second Twilight could've sworn she saw some of Arkwright's power fluctuate. Twilight sighed, "What if we tried funneling our magic through you. We may be able to heal you enough to cast the spells for a short amount of time," she said. Awkright looked down at his body and at the girls frowning, "Unfortunately you can't physically touch me. My body will immediately try and eat all of your magic and energy all at once," he said. Sunset smiled, "Ok then why don't you hold a bar or club and we can channel our energy into that then you can absorb it all without having to touch us," she said. Awkright looked up in deep thought, "It could work. I'm sure with the supplies we have here Caster can form a staff for that exact purpose. What say you Sparky?" he called. Caster hit his head on a trunk he was going through and growled, "Yea sure whatever, I'll get right on it!" he said. Awkright nodded and chuckled softly. Sunset eyed the Exion and waved a hand behind her scanning the man's body. Very little dark magic seemed to reside within his body now, but instead she noticed very heavy magic... Sunset looked to Twilight as they went back to the stove, "Hey Twilight," she said. Twilight looked at her, "Yes?" she asked. Sunset frowned rubbing her chin, "Something's off about Awkright... His... His body is coursing with heavy raw magic... When we first met he had plenty of Dark matter but now barely any exists. It's as if his dark matter is molding into magic ever since he entered the palace without hindrance," she said. Twilight looked to Awkright and Gidget, "I think there's more to Gidget's plan than she's letting on," she said. Sunset frowned looking at the young girl and to the Exion lord, "What do you think she's planning?" she asked. Twilight took a deep breath and walked over to Gidget. The young girl smiled, "Yes Twilight?" she asked. Twilight closed her eyes and opened them again giving the young girl a serious look, "What are your real plans Gidget. Something's different about Awkright, and I think you know what I mean," she said. Gidget frowned sadly. From the girl's expression Twilight knew she had given the right tone to get the right answer. Gidget sighed and looked at Awkright, "I didn't know that his energy would change to magic. What I am trying to do.... Is bring back someone who shouldn't have died," she whispered. Twilight's eyes widened realizing why Gidget had come for Nightshade's belongings. Things were starting to come together, and the final event was nearing soon. > Twisted Outcomes > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Twilight had trouble falling asleep last night. She had a lot to learn and there was very little time left to get all the knowledge she needed to help get Nightshade back... The flow of air was just right blowing through her hair. Sunset shared the same bed as her while Awkright slept against the wall and Caster slept on the floor. The ground hummed around Caster with energy. Twilight sat up unable to rest and walked into the small part of the cave Caster had turned into an small armory. The rod he had molded together with the stone and metal reserves from the trunks he had dug through. A cold gust whipped up behind her and she shivered. "Good evening Princess." A woman's voice spoke. Twilight turned to cast a magic missile but her magic was immediately canceled out. A woman in navy blue garb stood against the wall holding a wand. The woman's midnight black hair seemed to glow from the small light of moonlight coming from a window. Twilight was about to shout but immediately the two were transported to a quiet forest far from the island. The woman sat down taking a small breath, "It's been ages since I've traveled away from my home. I suppose I have my son to blame for this," she said. Twilight blinked, "Your son?" she asked. The woman smiled, "Yes. He travels a lot and he's a bit of a trouble maker. Though he doesn't know who I am I still can tell what he's doing. I have to say things have been starting to really heat up around the realms. I'm positive it's The Gallant's fault for all of it to. He's quite an interesting man. Anyway... I've come to collect you Princess for a reason. You will not be gone long from your comrades. Only a day. No more no less," she said. Twilight frowned, "Why do you need me, and... how do you know my name?!" she asked. The Lady giggled, "I'm sorry I forgot my manners. I am The Lady Of Lies. A legend to the people of Onimak. Friend to the legendary Black Wind. I know of what you and Gidget seek. I have to say the spell you are trying to conduct to reclaim The Gallant cannot be fulfilled in this lifetime. What I am going to teach you as an ancient archon technique from a far off distant realm. Gidget's plan will succeed. How she succeeds it all depends on her. You and your acquaintance, Sunset Shimmer, will both return to The Sentient Palace two days after you are done with your training. You will need to gather your friends from Canterlot High and bring them to the Palace as well. There you will practice the variety of magic that they have been given by the Element of Magic. With enough practice you should be able to keep an even side between the you and Nightwalker," she said. Twilight smiled weakly, "Is that all eheh?" she asked nervously. The Lady nodded, "Yes. Now rest. Once morning comes shall begin your training," she said. Twilight nodded and laid back in the grass only to find herself in another bed. The Princess yawned and fell asleep fast as The Lady waved a hand easing up her tension. Twilight soon drifted to a land of night. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The young silver haired woman sighed as she left the fallen hero's med room. Silver Tataganay was bored. More bored than she had ever been bored in the existence of boredom! Walking towards all the portals Silver eyed each one individually. She missed her loved ones dearly... But time would not allow for her to return... Overlooking the realms she eyed Ninyn's realm. She could hear the quiet voice of a woman speaking from the portal. It was egging her to come forward. Silver's wavered forward and fell through the portal. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ It was at sunrise that had been the first irritable thing to bother Twilight's sleep. The next thing was when a heavy object fell on top of her! Twilight jumped up with a start knocking off what ever had landed on her. Twilight turned to start a tantrum but she saw a silver haired girl with wolf ears and a long silver tail. The young princess stared at the girl till she turned around to stare back at her with electric blue eyes. Quaria returned home to find the girls staring at each other and she set the things she had gathered down quietly. Her lavender eyed turned dark blue as she looked over both girls, Both are princesses.... So this is what destinies decided for them... Very well then..., she thought. "Well I wasn't expecting you till much, much later but now's as good a time as any I suppose. Welcome Princess Silver Tataganay," Quaria said smiling. Silver turned and blinked staring at the woman, her tail swaying just a bit. "Do I know you ma'am?" Silver asked. Quaria shook her head, "No but I know plenty about you and your clan. I must say it is an honor for you to finally appear before me. Your destiny is quite interesting and I knew that someday you might end up here. You're just in time to help me train miss Twilight Sparkle here," she said smiling. Silver looked back to the violet haired girl and scowled, "Oh Ms. Grumpy pants here you mean?" she asked. Twilight growled, "It was you who landed on me! You woke me up!" she screeched. Silver waved a hand at her, "Yeah I know and it was an accident. I didn't mean to appear right on top of you Princess!" she hissed. Twilight rolled her eyes and went to the bathroom to change into her other clothing Quaria had picked out for her. Silver sighed, "Why am I need to train someone?" she asked. Quaria smiled while peeling some fruit, "Actually that was a joke. You are going to be a messenger for me. I am going to send you to The Isle of Night where you will meet some of Ninyn and Nightshade's comrades, Twilights acquaintance, and a former foe. You will let them know that there is no need to be alarmed about Twilights disappearance and they are to continue without her for the day. She will be returned by nightfall I promise," she said. Silver frowned, "And if I refuse?" she said. Quaria smirked, "Then I'll have to subject you to my torture pit," she said. Silver blinked, "Torture pit? Heh, you obviously forgot what I've been through my whole life," she said. Quaria walked over the young princess and whispered in her ear. Silver immediately began to feel warm as sweat began to drip from her forehead. Silver paled as she took in the woman's words and nodded, "Ok, ok I'll go, but please... Please don't ever do that!" she squealed. Quaria smiled, "I'm glad we came to an understanding," she said smiling. With a wave of her hand Silver was teleported to the island. Twilight came back out of the other room fully garbed for training. Quaria smiled, "My, my don't you look lovely. Are you ready my dear?" she asked. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Silver appeared in a little cave and found herself wearing a blue dress with a long skirt with black leggings. Her hair had been pulled back into a ponytail. She turned to find a sword and a glowing hand pointed at her face. Immediately she drew her sword and swung upward sending forth a gust of wind that knocked everyone out of the room. Silver walked out of the room holding Toxic Rose with a smug grin. The man in the middle wore a black leather coat, he was tan, and quite muscular. He must be the leader of the group, Silver thought. Silver withdrew her blade, "I'm not here to fight you. The Lady Of Lies has asked me to tell you your friend Twilight will be gone for the rest of the day. You are to depart at once. I am your within your company until asked otherwise," she said. The muscular man blinked, "Lady of Lies? She's a myth!" he cried. A young girl with black hair grabbed the man's arm, "No! She's real! I've seen her to! Hear her out Caster!" she said. Silver looked at the child and blinked, How young do they start in these "realms"? Silver pondered. The girl smiled at her, "I'm Gidget Cogsworth. I'm a friend of Star Bright Silver, and I've met The Lady of Lies. It's been a couple weeks since I've seen her but she was quite interesting," she said. Silver smiled, "I am Silver Tataganay. I am from the realm of courage. Lady Star Bright and Alchelm saved me from a terrible fate," she said smiling. She looked around the room from Caster, Sunset Shimmer, to Awkright as they each introduced themselves. Silver wasn't too keen on having the exion lord's title but if these people were putting up with him, so would she. The team soon began returning to the ship with the new resources and other supplies from the cave. Slate had been fixed by Caster with a few elemental adjustments with the help of Silver and Sunset Shimmer. Slate now had two gems embedded into his hilt, one was amethyst and the other was a fire ruby. Gidget kept the blade strapped to her side knowing her goals would soon be complete. Even though Twilight knew a minor part of her plan it still was enough to keep the princess guessing till it was time for the ritual. Silver stood at the helm with Caster smiling and taking in the ocean air. The next place they were heading was the main continent. From what could be told they were heading to a place called The Platinum Dragon Inn. The establishment sounded quite interesting and Silver was more than intrigued to learn more about each of the realms as they continued towards the horizon. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Twilight was breathing heavily, her magic was completely drained and The Lady hadn't slowed her pace regarding her training. The Lady only sighed as she stared at the princess, "It seems you still have much more to accomplish. Rest in my quarters. I'll be able to make a time bubble that quickens our time. When you wake you should be completely recharged. Then the training will resume," she said. Twilight slumped to the floor from exhaustion and began to rest. Quaria sighed and put Twilight in the room. The Princesses of two different realms.... Meeting and having a conflicting destiny... At times like these she would leave and not bother with anything... But for the sake of her son... She had to continue. > Who Knew? > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- They made port by the afternoon. The air smelled sweet with the aroma of different fruits. Silver jumped off the ship with glee looking around at the city they had arrived at. The town square was quite beautiful. Lamp posts lined separate corners. A fountain was sitting at the center far away from the docks. Gidget joined the pretty lady and danced around the fountain. Caster sighed heavily as he put up the enchantments on the ship. Sunset was busy casting an illusionary disguise on Awkright so people wouldn't panic when they saw him. Silver looked around smiling, "Tell me Gidget dear, How often have you visited this place?" she asked. Gidget smiled, "Well before Nightshade was captured I came here quite often. He trained me to wield my scythe, and he taught me how to channel energy in this realm without wielding any magic, or a zodiac mode!" she cheered. Silver raised an eyebrow, "I've heard Caster talk about that with Sunset Shimmer. What is a zodiac mode?" she asked. Caster walked over, "A Zodiac Mode is what we call our distinct abilities that we acquired through our bodies and mind. A sure way of telling we've activated our abilities is looking at our eyes. Each Syriac has the capability to activate three different tiers of zodiac style. Level 1 Zodiac Mode, our basic abilities are minor enhanced, Level 2 Zodiac Mode which evolves into a greater and more powerful ability based on our personality, and finally Level 3 Zodiac Style. Level 3 requires immense amount of training, studying and hardship to unlock, or you undergo a great deal of pain. Level 3 was considered forbidden because no one was willing to put any others through that kind of torture. That changed many years ago after a great war between us and Bane Calus," he explained. Silver nodded, "Can anyone who enters your realm acquire a zodiac mode?" she asked quite intrigued. Caster shook his head, "Not unless you're willing to go and kill someone and transplant their eyes into your own," he said. Silver cringed, "No thanks," she said. Gidget lead the way as they found The Platinum Dragon Inn. To everyone's surprise the inn was completely empty! Gidget looked around quite confused, "That's odd... It's usually quite busy here... RAVEN!!" she yelled. A man with black dress pants, a black shirt and violet vest came out of the back, wearing a black fedora with a purple stripe. Over his left eye was an eye-patch. The man had dark black hair and his right eye was violet as well. Silver leaned over to Gidget, "Think he likes purple?" she asked trying not to giggle. Gidget rolled her eyes. The man came around the bar and smiled, "Welcome everyone welcome! And welcome to the new guests from other realms!" he said smiling. Sunset and Silver both blinked, "How did he-?!" Gidget giggled cutting them off, "Raven knows practically everything. No exaggeration either! He's really smart and really strong too! Anywho... Raven we kind of need your help..." she said. Raven looked to Caster, and then to Awkright, "First things first, Bring the Exion to my basement. I have to examine him specifically. Second, of course you need my help. With what you are planning on taking care of you need my specific abilities to complete the transitions. Third of all, sit and rest because after your visit i guarantee that a hard ending is soon to come," he said. The adventurers blinked and slowly nodded not questioning the man's statements. AS they sat down Caster guided Awkright to the basement. Sunset, Silver, and Gidget remained behind as Raven served them each a drink. Gidget smiled as she sipped on her apple juice. Sunset had orange pop. Silver looked at her glass eyeing it suspiciously. Raven smiled, "I promise that I did not drug it my dear. I am not that kind of man. I am a man of business. I get paid well and work for whichever side most interests me. One thing that does quite interest me right now is who you are and what you're capable of, but for now... Relax. I will return once I am finished with Awkright down stairs," he said. Gidget giggled and watched the strange man disappear behind the counter. Sunset looked at Gidget, "So... How long have you known him? He seems like quite the character. I mean he seems to have an interest in all of us but most importantly he seemed to enjoy talking to you," she said. Gidget shrugged, "I have no idea. No one can read that man. He's a complete mystery to anyone and everything around him. All I know is that he's a man I never want cross blades with," she said. Silver smiled, "I wouldn't mind actually. I enjoy a good fight, and he seems rather... Interesting," she said licking her lips slightly. Sunset looked at Silver, "What does your realm represent Silver?" she asked. Silver turned to the girl and smiled, "From what I've been told my realm radiates an extraordinary amount of courage. So Lady Star Bright calls it The Realm Of Courage. I can see why it would be called that. Everyday's a different battle in my realm, and even though the battles may seem futile, my family, friends, and myself always stand up to face it head on, no matter the cost," she said. Gidget blushed eyeing the woman, "Oh... My... Celestia...." --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In the basement Awkright was held in mid air by Raven's magic. The mercenary eyed the Exion quite thoroughly, "You took quite a shock from Roark's death. When you two separate the elements of harmony cut off most of your abilities. Your darkness seems to have been the shard that fueled most of Roark's power, which would explain why the elements hit you the hardest during the separation process..." he said. Caster watched from the side, "So what are you planning to do then?" he asked. Raven smiled, "What I usually do my friend. I'm going to fix him. I have just the magic to reverse the effects while keeping his former sanity intact. It's quite tricky but I'm quite sure I can accomplish it. Thought it's going to hurt... A lot... Actually it's going to hurt a lot more than just... a lot," he said tapping on a panel on the floor. Part of a wall gave way and flipped around revealing an entire shelf of wands. Each a different color with a different symbol on each. Music could be heard up stairs and more people could be heard entering the in. Raven sighed, "Well... At least they'll drown out the screams," he said to himself. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Above more and more people we're beginning to flood the area. Silver and Gidget had run into the kitchen beginning to cook and plate food. Sunset shimmer had put on a new set of clothing making her look like a cute bar waitress. Men hooted and hollered with glee as she sang and mesmerized them with her melodic voice. Sentries began to form in the kitchen and take food out to the guests. Silver had gone through Raven's office looking for keys and such and found a set of clothes that matched the outfit he had been wearing when he went down stairs. Quickly Silver threw on the clothes, the fedora, and even the eye-patch for effect. Stepping out the door to the bar Silver smiled triumphantly as she began serving drinks to some of the guest. Once and awhile they would try to grab at her curvy body and throw some flirts but Silver glared at them and popped them over the head with a leek she pulled out of her back pocket. Sunset was beginning to feel hot but one sentry came out and handed her a crystal blue potion. Sunset looked at the bottle and the growing crowd and drank the vial quickly. Sunset began to glow with a blue aura and she soon sprouted her pony ears and an electric blue high light soon coated through her hair. Magic and energy surged through her as she found a new voice and began to sing better than ever. " ♪ Power Was all I desired ♪" (I desired, all I desired) ♪But all that grew inside me Was the darkness I acquired ♪ ♪When I began to fall And I lost the path ahead That's when your friendship found me And it lifted me instead ♪ ♪Like a phoenix burning bright In the sky I'll show there's another side to me You can't deny ♪ ♪I may not know what the future holds But hear me when I say ♪ ♪That my past does not define me 'Cause my past is not today ♪ Ambition ♪Is what I believed Would be the only way To set me free ♪ ♪But when it disappeared And I found myself alone That's when you came and got me And it felt like I was home ♪ ♪Like a phoenix burning bright In the sky I'll show there's another side to me You can't deny ♪ ♪I may not know what the future holds But hear me when I say That my past does not define me 'Cause my past is not today!!!! ♪" The crowd cheered and hollered with glee! Silver couldn't help but shed a tear as she began clapping with the crowd. Guests came and went soon the night came. To everyone's surprise Twilight walked through the door as closing time came. The pony princess was quite shocked to see Sunset's transformation but then she thought about Raven's vast knowledge and shrugged it off. Soon the inn was cleaned and put back into order. The girls all sat down exhausted from their long day. Gidget looked around, "Hey... At least we did it!" she said. Silver nodded and smiled, "Who knew... We'd be able to pull something like this off?" she huffed. Gidget giggled taking Raven's hat from Silver, "I think we have what it takes to run this place instead of Raven!" she cheered. Everyone laughed, and suddenly they all paused hearing the clapping from the other side of the room. Raven stood with a wand drawn and a smirk across his face, "Oh don't let me spoil your fun ladies. It's merely business," he said cheerfully. > This Is Business > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Raven stood with a wand drawn and a smirk across his face. Night had fallen across the port. All the girls had gone off to bed except the girl named Silver. She seemed much more alive than she was during the day. No it wasn't the personality, the talking, or even the movements. It was her posture, the very aura that surrounded this woman was strong and alive. Full of adventure and light. It's a wonder a woman of this caliber even existed. *Then again.... That's the same thing I thought about him....* The Mercenary thought. Raven sighed putting his wand away and strolled over to Silver. The young princess was looking at the clear sky mesmerized by the beauty of Onimaks True Blue Moon. It was a rare site, the True Blue, it rarely showed itself unless there was a time of peace. From the moonlight she seemed calm and collective. Raven cleared his throat, "You're the one whose spirit forged the new portal?" He asked. Silver turned to him nodding, "From what I've been told, yes. Star Bright has dubbed my "realm" as the realm of courage," she said. Raven smiled and looked out the window, "Considering what you did, it wouldn't surprise me. You were very courageous," he said. Silver blinked eyeing the man, "What is it you represent fit the sentients?" She asked. Raven turned around and paced, "I honestly don't represent anything. I'm just a very wealthy business man trying to reach across the realms for my own gain. The "light" side seems to have better benefits than the dark do. What fun is there in ruling when you really won't make any pleasure off of your business. It's silly really," he said. Silver nodded, "Business..... Heh. You seem to make the best out of things. So tell me, why didn't you stop us from running your inn? I mean, it is technically yours," she said. Raven laughed, "I was busy when you were having fun. Also when I came to, I saw how much fun you and the girls were having. I didn't want to spoil a good time. Plus you looked really good in my outfit," he said winking with his one eye. Silver blushed and giggled, "Trying to compliment me won't get you very far Reznov~ What is it that you want?" She asked. Raven chuckled, "Want? Honestly regarding the term "Want", I don't really want anything from you. I want to train you and the girls before the final confrontation against Nightwalker," he said. Silver blinked, "And what exactly is it you wish to train me in?" She asked. Raven smiled, "Rest for now. Tomorrow we'll begin the training. Then you will know what it is I will do. However, a fair spoiler to your training, it is a skill and a deadly opponent. This skill is a double edged sword for any who cannot truly master it. Hence why I've chosen you as the one to learn this skill..... And because of..... Other sources," he said. Silver blinked, "Other sources??" She asked softly. Raven chuckled, "To bed with you Princess Tataganay. All will be revealed tomorrow," he said. Silver sighed softly and went to a warm cozy room Raven had given her. Gazing at the moon Silver's eyes filled with tears, "I'm sorry......." she said. The young princess sobbed till she passed out. The night was young, and energies were twisting every turn. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Raven sighed turning the lights to a dim proportion and pulling out a small glass of cranberry juice. A shift in the wind caught his attention, wand drawn forth, Raven turned to see The Lady of Lies. "Fair evening Raven Reznov. No surprise to see you awake at this hour. Tell me, how do you like the guests you have staying with you at this time, hmm?" Quaria asked. Raven smiled taking a sip of his drink slightly shivering from it's bitter taste, "I honestly couldn't be more intrigued. The future set for each of them separately has caught my attention. Ms. Cogsworths and Princess Tataganays most particularly. Both are interesting however one's fate is truly a marvel. The suffering... It's all worth it in the end I suppose..... But the true ending.... That is something not even I can see. I must say my business has stretched to a point I didn't think quiet possible, but I guess I have many to thank for that. I will train the Equestrian Girls, or ponies, whichever. The wolf princess will be no problem either," he said pausing for another sip. Quaria nodded, "I figured as much. What about the Exion, and Ms. Gidget?" She asked pulling out a glass for herself. Raven cracked his popped his knuckles, "The Exion should be healed by tomorrow night. Gidget requires no further training at the present time. What lies ahead for her is going to be more than she could've asked for. I hope she keeps her head on her shoulders for the end. This is a show I'd hate to miss.... Unfortunately I cannot intervene," he said. Quaria drank some ginger ale, "I see... Then maybe there is something I can do in the end huh? I suppose an order of illusion can change the tide of battle for the sentients," she said. Raven nodded, "If you insist. You aren't bound to fate. Neither am I of course... I just choose to.... Let things play out before I decide," he said. Quaria giggled, "Always the businessman Reznov. If what you see is what you like then I shall be on my way.... Oh! I forgot, here is a gift for you," she said handing him a violet stone. Raven raised an eyebrow, "An augment?" He asked. Quaria smiled leaving towards the man. Raven blinked as she raised his eye-patch. "You'll know what it's for when the time comes. See you round Merc~" Quaria whispered kissing him on the cheek. Ravens left eye flared with emotion. As he was about to say something, she vanished! Raven blushed pushing his eye-patch down looking at the augment, "Interesting events indeed....." ------------------------------------------------------------------ Morning came and the company in arms meet in the lobby to find that the inn itself was deserted! Caster looked around and saw that the windows were covered and the girls were locked. The closed sign was up and flashing. Caster blinked, "It's unlike Raven to close on a weekend," he said. "That's because today is unlike any other Mr. Alin. We have very little time and I have much to take care of regarding your company. First off," he said tossing a purple augment at Caster, "You will be reforging that blade you picked up on The Isle of Night. You will have access to my forge in the back. Gidget, you will accompany him," he ordered. Gidget and Caster were about to reply but Raven held up a hand pointing them to the back. Neither said a word and just went to the forge as told. Raven snorted and turned to the girls as doppelganger of himself stepped from the shadows, "My doppelganger and myself will be training you three in separate a vicinity. The real me will be taking you, Ms. Tataganay, while my doppelganger will train you two, Twilight and Sunset," he said. The girls nodded without any hesitation. Raven nodded and held out a hand to Silver while the Doppelganger led Twilight and Sunset to the basement. Silver took Ravens hand and the two teleported immediately to the other side of town. Silver looked about, "Why are we I'm public.... And why am I in a dress?!" She shrieked. Raven chuckled, "I know you're a master of seduction on your own, but against an entire different entity you have no hopes. I am going to give you something to learn Charm Speak. It's more powerful than seduction. It allows you to enter another's mind emotionally and guide them to do what you ask of them. But be careful what you wish. For the words must be specific otherwise things might not work in the end," he said handing her a small bracelet. Silver eyed the bracelet, it was pure silver with a gem shaped like a heart in the middle. It was sapphire blue. She put it on and felt a warming sensation course through her body. She looked back at the bracelet and the gem had turned hot pink. Raven took a deep breath, "Thank the sentients.... The ability accepted you..." he said. Silver blinked and smiled, "Dear Raven, could you please take me to go get some new clothes to wear~" she said. The warmth from the bracelet filled her words with a calming sensation. Raven flipped up his eye-patch for a moment canceling out the effect, "Already trying to have fun. Heh..... This ability is...." he paused thinking over his words, "It's many for important moments to turn a tide or get information. I created the bracelet, I know how it works, and I know how to avoid its effects. It's obvious you can easily use so training won't be a problem. However you getting carried away might be one. Get a hold of yourself, we've got work to do," he said putting his eye-patch down. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Caster has melted away Slates original blade and had rebuilt the handle transferring Slates conscious into the new one. The blade was forged from gemstone of amethyst and sapphires. Repeatedly Caster melted the blade and solidified it. After using his black fire on the blade it began to glow with a brilliant light. The blades colors overlapped each other. Sapphire and dark violet, as if one color was fighting for dominance. Caster smiled and took the augment Raven had given him and combined it with the handle of the blade. The handle roared in mid air and changed itself giving itself two switches and one button. Quickly and stubbornly Caster grasped the cooling blade and mounted it together with the handle. A shockwave shook the building and sent Gidget and Caster sprawled on the floor. A small vibration caught their attention and the blade sheathed itself with a magical glow. Gidget stood and grasped Slate. The blade was shining silver, but the blue and violet overlaps were now at the edge of the blade. Gidget smiled as she heard Ravens voice, "Now that my dear friends is what I'd call true business," he chuckled. > Where Roads Part.... > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The day had gone by quickly. Caster had given Slate a new sheath and had him put on display until it was time to leave. The company was enjoying a well deserved meal. Silver was completely exhausted. Twilight and Sunset seemed full of energy after their training. The only one missing still was Awkright. Gidget looked to the mercenary with a raised eyebrow. Raven was chucking to himself as he cleaned and redesigned the interior of his inn. Caster ate quite well and even drank a before trudging off to bed. Silver after her long day of flirting without the use of her skin or normal seductive tactics went to bed as well. Sunset and Twilight both thanked Raven and looked to Gidget, "Whatever happens... Know that whatever it is, we're being you 100% Gidg. If you think you can bring a change to the battle ahead.... Do it," Twilight chirped. Gidget smiled, "I promise. I won't let you down," she said. The two equestrian girls nodded and left through a portal back to the sentient palace. It was gonna be a little different without those two around.... Gidget took a deep breath and looked too Raven, "Ok... Where's the carcass?" She asked sternly. Raven looked to the girl smiling warmly, "Your acquaintance Awkright?" He asked. Gidget shot him a glare, Raven rolled his eye and chuckled leading get down stairs. With a snap of his fingers a wall turned around and Awkright could be seen lying on a bed sleeping soundly. Gidget sighed, "I honestly thought you had either killed him or turned him into something else..." she said. Raven shook his head, "If anything I've made him whole again. He can use his limbs and abilities properly now. After scrounging around in his mind after the operation, I figured it was best to return him an actual functioning state. It also seems his allegiance has fully switched to your side," he explained. Gidget blinked, "You fixed him? Why?" She asked. Raven looked to red girl taking a breath, "A vessel needs to be properly prepared. Right?" He said, Gidget froze and her eyes widened. "D-Did y-you tell anyone?!" Gidget stammered. Raven chucked and shook his head slowly, "No. None of them know. It's merely between you and I and that rhyming zebra in Equestria," he said. Gidget sat down taking a moment to compose herself, "I've got everything I need... Now... Now I just need the place to do this... I know it wasn't a long journey or much to collect.... But we going what we needed... Is there a place in Onimak that I can perform the spell?" She asked. Raven tapped his chin, "I'm afraid that what you are trying to accomplish cannot be done in Onimak. It must be done in the realm in which the bring brought back was born in," he said. Gidget sighed, "Alright... I know where to go..." --------------------------------------------------------- Morning. Everyone had finished packing. Gidget sighed softly as she looked asking Ravens Inn. It had been a fun couple of days, now it was back to the task at hand. Caster looked too Raven, "So to Equestria huh? You sure about this?" He asked. Raven nodded, "That should be the final area you need to be in got your quest. To the castle of the two sister you will go. There you will find what you seek," he said. Awkright came from the basement, Caster chucked Slate at him. The Exion caught it quickly. Caster smiled and Awkright looked at his arms in astonishment. The Exion then looked at it's new blade and latched it to his side. Gidget came over and smiled, "It suits you well. You've earned you ability to fight. That's another reason we came here," she said. Awkright chuckled softly as he stretched his body, "I must admit I'm surprised to be able to move at full capacity once more. I am very grateful. To all of you," he said. Raven sighed, "I hate to break up the moment but I believe you all must hurry to your next destination. Gidget nodded, "Well before take off, why don't we go to the market and shop for a bit. Just as a last enjoyable moment before we have to deal 27th anything serious," she said smiling. Silver smiled, "That sounds like a lovely idea! At least this time I won't have toto got with random people!" She giggled. The two girls giggled and laughed at each other. Caster looked at the girls and sighed, "Well.... I'm afraid I won't be able to join you. I have to return to my duties for a little while," she said. Gidget turned, "Are you sure? I mean.... We've accomplished so much together..... We're so close to finishing...-!" Caster cut her off. "I'm confident Awkright, and Silver are just as good at being at your side without me. I believe in you Gidget," Caster said patting her head. Gidget felt tears sting her eyes, "Y-you big dummy!!" She wailed while flailing her arms. Caster laughed, "I'm gonna miss you Gidg. Awkright.... Silver.... Please take care of her," he said smiling. Silver and Awkright glanced at each other then at Caster. The two nodded and smirked, "I've come this far.... No point in turning back. I promise," Awkright said. Silver smiled, a small fang popping out, "Its been a fun ride... Though it hasn't been much if what I was expecting.... I'll stick around. Sooner or later something's bound to happen," she said. Caster smiled, "Then I can leave the that to you," he said. Raven smiled as he watched the proud leader wall out the door. The remaining companions looked to one another and nodded. A new road has been made for all. This is where the roads part, and a countdown towards a finale everyone was looking forward to had begun. > A Little Shadow > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The day was ending. Awkright and Silver were packing away their belongings after shopping. Gidget was running late. Raven looked to the two, "You two can go to the palace. I'm sure Gidget will be along. There's nothing much to do but prepare," he said. Awkright nodded, "Unfortunately you're right. We have the sword. Magic, and the required materials for the spell she's planning to cast. The best we can do is plan our next move," he said. -------------------------------------------------------- Gidget was eating at a cafe. Smiling brightly as she nibbled on a honey tart. It was warm, and was drizzled with creamy sweet butter. A chill went up Gidgets spine. The area around Gidget froze. She turned to see a shadow of a man sitting across from her. Pulling out a knife she slashed forward. Time began to flow and everyone turned looking at Gidget. Gidget blushed and put her knife away. She paid for her treat and began heading back to Raven's Inn. Along the street time froze once more and the cold swept over Gidget. The shadow reappeared eyeing her, "Gidget Cogsworth.... The Eye of Creation.... The one gear that keeps interfering with my plans.... I know what you seek. My hunter is close on your tail seeking to destroy its traitorous leader... If you stop here... I promise you an easier and nicer way to return that which you've lost," it said. Gidget snapped her fingers and arcane orbs began to float around her, "Nightwalker.... " she said. The figure chuckled and Gidget was thrown into a pocket of darkness.... -------------------------------------------------------- "Wake up! We're going to be late Gidg!!" A voice called. Gidget sat up with a start. She was back in the Sentient Palace. Thyme was waking her up. Thyme was in human form. A white flannel shirt, blue jeans. The scent of dark roast coffee filled her room. The young girl sat up startled. Quickly she was pulled into the throne room. The sentients were all sitting on their chairs. Two new sentients sat among them. A boy no older than her, and a lady... She had black hair, and a... Ligertail?! Nightshade was shaking hands with an older looking gentleman who radiated the same powers as he had. Everything was.... Peaceful! Gidget looked around sporadically, *What's going on?! Wh-!* she thought and looked into the room of portals. The portal of shadows was silver and whole!! Nightwalker was there!! He looked lighter... It was creepy. The real Nightwalker appeared behind her and chuckled, "This could be waiting for you at the end my dear. Everything completely changed for the better," he said smiling. Gidget looked around, her eyes widened and she saw him. Night Glade stood by a podium reading a book. His messy blue hair was all down in front like it always was. Gidget took a step towards him but paused and turned towards the real Nightwalker, "This will never happen.... At least.... Not with you... You plan to destroy and rebuild what has been lost! You can't replicate what they were, let alone resurrect complete annihilation!!! You're lying!!" She cried. Nightwalker growled and slashed forward but Gidget brought forth her scythe and shot the shadow in the face disintegrating it. The vision faded and Gidget feel to one knee. She felt the dark energy finally clawing at her. Nightwalker had distracted her. A wave a nausea came over and Gidget passed into a dark and tormenting dream..... ----------------------------------------------------- Hours had passed when Awkright and Silver found Gidgets unconscious body in the street. They both agreed to hurry towards Equestria. Caster and the others were far to busy to be bothered with now.... The rest was up to them. -------------------------------------------------------- The Black Wind entered once more to the women's area. Quaria hissed as she felt the man enter her domain. "What are you doing here Seyron?" The Lady asked while mixing her potion. Seyron sighed taking his hood off, "It seems The Nightwalker had passed under your surveillance.... Gidget Cogsworth is now within a dark coma designed with hardly any means of escape. I cannot break through it without another's help. With The Gallant being held captive and the rest of the sentients busy that leaves only you!" He said. Quaria set her mixture down and thought about the situation for a long while. She made tea and handed Seyron a cup. "That girl must succeed.... The demon is no longer what he once was.... The Princess has begun her journey... The Gallant shall be released and The Light shall prevail with courage lighting his way..... She must prevail for this to happen.... What makes you so sure I can help?" She asked. Seyron chuckled, "You're her sister aren't you?," he said with a chuckle. Quaria glared at the man, "If all you came here for is small talk please leave!" she hissed. The woman kept her gaze on the man with a shadow holding over her expression. The old man seemed to enjoy torturing her with her past mistakes... Though he did have a point regarding the illusion... It was powerful... A mixture of The Gallants power and the full force of the shadow realm... Seyron sighed, "If we don't help her now everything will be destroyed..." he said. Quaria was squeezing her cup of tea. Seyron sipped his tea watching the conflict within her mind. It was obvious that Quaria cared for the girl and the realms... It all mattered on the right push... "He would've-!" Seyron was taken aback as Quaria backhanded him. Quaria's eyes were bloodshot with anger, "Don't you dare bring Nimal into the situation! You know very well his place in this situation was decided long ago! He died defending his precious island and family! He chose honor over life!" she roared. Seyron rubbed his cheek while turning back to her, "If Nimal isn't part of the situation, then his son sure as hell is!" he bit back. Quaria gasped and held her tongue, her face lit with a dark blush. Seyron smiled, *Checkmate,* he thought. With a sigh Seyron rose, "Now that I have your full attention," he said. Quaria sighed, "What do you need of me?" she asked. Seyron smirked. ----------------------------------------------------- Gidget was forced to watch her friends get torn apart, burned alive, eaten, tortured over and over again. That wasn't the only problem however, Nightwalkers dark stare bore into her heart reading her motives. The mere presence of the monsters power put a physical and mental strain on her body... Nightwalker chuckled to himself, "So bold... So strong... I have to give you credit where it's due young Gidget, but it's time to bring this charade to an end. You'll be my newest addition to my pawns against the sentients!" he cackled. Gidget's hollow gaze swept across the illusions, the overwhelming power holding her back was to much, it was sickening, "Pl... Please... Someone..." she croaked. ----------------------------------------------------- Quaria and Seyron appeared at the main plaza in a flash. The area around them was shrouded in darkness. Seyron looked around, his black aura repelling the darkness. Quaria had a brilliant blue violet aura. Seyron held out a hand making an orb of his energy. Quaria took the orb and ran to Gidget's body. Gidget was very pale and her skin was as cold as ice. Quaria shook her head and began to merge her energy and Seyrons energy into her body forcing the dark energy out of her body slowly. The process would take awhile but it would do the job. A cold hand touched Quarias shoulder and she looked back to see Nightwalker standing behind her. "Have we met before?" Nightwalker chuckled. Quaria didn't respond, she couldn't move or defend herself during this process otherwise she might harm herself or Gidget quite severely. "No, but you've met me," Seyron spoke up as he appeared in front of them both. With a wave of his hand Seyron sent Nightwalker sprawling! Seyron took off his cloak and placed it on Quaria for more protection. Seyrons aura was strong on his body and his cloak. Nightwalker smirked as he stood, "I'm surprised you've lived this long old man. Isn't it about time you go crawl into a casket?" he coaxed. Seyron drew forth a blue cross bladed lightsaber, it immediately turned into a blue long sword. Nightwalker sighed and pulled out Shin Ryu, "You know you can't kill me Black Wind. So why bother fighting?" he asked. Seyron smiled as he circled the monster. Nightwalker watched Seyrons movements closely, "If you think you can save the girl with some mediocre heroine it's more complicated than that! Surely you must've sensed the energy flowing through her body correct? What hopes could you possibly hold?" he asked. Seyron stopped in his tracks and sighed, "What hopes? Heh... Dear fellow you should watch your words... There are no hopes in the realms..." he said holding up his blade. Nightwalker stepped forward and swung at Seyron. Seyron opened his eyes, an aura of electric blue power surged from his eyes, his pupils were yellow, "What I hold is True Hope. Singular. Uno, one, and only. Hope is for everyone, not multiple aspects like Courage and Light. No, it's far simpler than that. Hope is what binds us to believing in a better tomorrow. It's waking up to the sun in the morning, seeing dear loved ones by your side. It's something that a monster like you..." Seyron's energy blazed and his blade began to crackle with power as their blades clashed, "Could never understand,"he growled. Nightwalkers eyes turned dark violet, his pupils blood red as he pulled back. Seyron twirled sending out a wave of lightning at Nightwalker. The monster held forth Shin Ryu barely fending off the attack! Seyron came forward swinging his blade swiftly. Nightwalker blocked the attack but the force of energy that followed the collision shook the ground and pushed him back hard. Seyron struck two more times against Shin Ryu and came around with a kick knocking Nightwalker into the ground. Nightwalker hit the ground hard face first. Gravel and blood clung to the monster's face as he stood. Nightwalkers nose was bent to the left and blood poured out of it rapidly. Nightwalker pushed his nose back into place easily but the pain that was shooting through his body was unbearable. A dark aura surrounded his nose and the bleeding stopped immediately. Seyron jogged lightly in place smiling, "Come on oh Dark One! I thought you'd give me a better fight than this! Show me what the monster has in store for the realms!" he taunted. Nightwalker looked at Seyron and his sword and shook his head, "No... You're clearly more skilled and more powerful... Unable to kill me yes, but powerful enough to subdue me... Until next we meet Black Wind..." he said. With a gust of wind and a shake of the ground below Nightwalker was gone. Seyron took a breath and his sword turned back into a crossguard lightsaber. The blade turned off and disappeared into Seyrons bag. ---------------------------------------------------- Gidget felt the darkness fading around her. A light could be seen and a tender voice calling out to her, "Come on Gidget! We're all waiting for you!" it called. Gidget looked up and began to see images of her friends all bright and alive. Their faces smiled and beckoned her forward. She saw Ninyn, Thyme with her newly built wings. She saw Nightshade, Star Bright... Alchelm, Vladimir... Finally the images stopped and a blue hair man stood before her with pine green eyes, "Get up Gidg... You've got to finish what you've started. I believe in you... Just keep going," he said. She knew this man, he was so close to her heart... His presence alone filled her with joy and sorrow. Gidget found her voice, "Night Glade!! I will bring you back!!" she cried. The light grew stronger and she began to stir with a fiery passion. ----------------------------------------------------- Seyron had destroyed the shadowy barrier surrounding the plaza as the separation process came to an end. Silver and Awkright stood outside the barrier panting heavily with weapons drawn forth. As Gidget began to stir Quaria disappeared, but Silver and Awkright caught a quick glance of her and their eyes widened! Seyron grabbed up his cloak and threw it on himself. He walked up to the two of them and patted them on the shoulders, "Fear not... A shadow was bothering her... And a smaller shadow saved her life... Be careful in your future endeavors..." he said turning directly to Awkright, "You do realize what she is planning to do correct?" he asked. Awkright put his sword away and looked at the man with a dark expression, "I do..." he said. Seyron nodded, "And you're willing to go through with this?" he asked. Awkright smirked, "My time here amongst the living is over, that is quite clear. If I remain one way or another I'll bring harm to the realms. It is better this way..." he said. Seyron nodded, "Well said Lord Exion... It seems you really did gain some of Roark's mind when you separated... I look forward to seeing the boy once this is all done and over with..." he said as he tapped the Exion on the forehead. Awkright immediately became a lot younger and he passed out. Silver's eyes widened as she watched Seyron walk away, "What did you do?!" she cried. Seyron turned towards her, "I merely made the final step a tad bit easier to obtain. I will no longer intervene with this quest. I leave the rest to you and Ms. Cogsworth," he said. With a snap of the wind he was gone. Silver looked around and helped Gidget back to her feet. The young girl was perfectly healed and a new energy seemed to emit from her body. Raw magic and energy radiated from her being. Silver choked a little as she observed the change. Gidget had even grown two years older! Gidget stood taking a breath and looking at her body. She was clearly 17 at the least in human years. She blushed looking over all of her features. She took a breath and smiled, "Thank you Milady... Thank you... I won't let you down..." she said openly. Silver paled a little thinking about seeing The Lady of Lies. Things were escalating quickly at a terrifying pace... Just what did she get herself into she thought... The young women carried Awkright to the ship and set sail for the Isle of Life. It was time for Gidget to return home... > The Ritual > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- The return journey to Equestria wasn't a problem. It seemed to Gidget and Silver that Seyron and Quaria had scared Nightwalker quite a bit. The two young women had made it to the castle of the two sisters without any problems either. No one knew of their return quite yet. Awkright was still unconscious and was now chained to a small magic circle deep in the castle courtyard. Gidget sighed softly looking at the Exion, "Thank you for all your help.... Both of you..." she said noting both Silver and Awkright. Silver nodded with a smile, her bright blue eyes casted to Awkright. Gidget pulled out Slate and clicked a switch and stabbed the blade onto the ground. Blue and Violet fire circled around Awkright. Slowly Gidget began to glow with a silver energy. And it began to swirl around Awkright. A man entered the castle with claws protruding from his hands, "Infidel!!!" He roared. Silver looked up at the man, she could sense the negative energy radiating off of him and she bared teeth in frustration, "You monsters never learn!" she hissed. The man fidgeted and warped space around him, half of him was pale, the other half of his body was infected with dark matter. Foam was coming out of his mouth and melting the ground as it touched it. Silver lowered her head and narrowed her eyes "Gidg," she murmured. Gidget was focused on the ritual. Reality didn't seem to faze or catch her attention. Silver shook her head and looked to the man, "Stay back!" she yelled. The man smiled viciously, "Fresh meat!!" he cried as he extended his and lashed out at them. Silver drew forth Toxic Rose and caught his arm easily. The blade's warped to its corrosion purple. Black veins raced up Silver's arm, "Oh hell no! We've come too far and so close for you to come and screw this up!" she roared The Exion pulled his arm back and shot out his tongue at her throat. Silver smirked as the purple corrosion aura surrounded her as she grabbed the tongue "Tongue on the first date? Pretty ballsy," she chuckled. The tongue spat little leeches at her, but as the leeches attached to her they burned off, even as Silver held his tongue it was burning with the corrosive aura. The Exion growled and pulled himself forward with the tongue putting his weight into the pull knocking her back. Silver stumbled back slamming her sword in the ground, with a sigh Toxic Rose disappeared and two other blades appeared. The Exion chuckled under its breath and smiled coldly. The claws coming out of his knuckles grew longer and his eyes turned dark violet. Silver placed the swords together and whispered softly under her breath as they combined into larger longer sword. The corrosive aura around Silver grew larger, "Don't make me do this," she said The Exion laughed, "Go ahead and try princess~" "Oh I'm no princess..." She laughed as her corrosive began to dance, "I'm a Goddess!" She murmured as she placed the sword over her shoulder. The Exion cackled and stomped the ground sending up pillars between them. Silver smacked the sword against one of the pillars heading to Gidget, sending it back at the Exion in slivers. The Exion dispersed into energy and reappeared behind her with several new limbs reaching out for her. Silver had no time to react as the Corrosive aura faded from her, she brought the sword up and into the Exions stomach with a twist. The sword grew spikes and remained embedded in his body, "Celestial Cleansing," She growled. A white light formed around the wound and blade causing a burning and tearing pain. The Exion began to grow larger as it absorbed the pain and it's hand clamped onto the back of her neck causing a searing pain. Silver let out a cry of pain as she twisted in his grasp and sent the sword away. The Exion fell to a knee and growled in pain. Silver closed her eyes and took a deep breath whispering "I wish I had some help here," As the words left her lips her whole body started to glow with a blue light, the Exions hand was cut clean off. The Exion turned, "Master...." he whispered. A cold wave of energy shook the area and Silver was frozen as an icy hand gripped her shoulder. The glow on silver did not falter, she cast her eyes to a dark figure before taking a deep breath. The man smiled, "An aspect of courage.... Interesting....." he said smiling. Silver gave a dark growl, one of her eyes were dark and demonic the other was bright and holy. The man laughed and waved a hand canceling out her darker side, "I'm sorry my dear but in this body I control everything dark..." he chuckled darkly. She still growled darkly as her dark eye became bright, a sadistic smile on her face. The man chuckled, "We shall see how your spirit holds against my realm," he said reaching for her neck. A white fireball came out of the sky and hit the man sending him back. Caster entered the fray smiling. Silver fell to her knees shivering "C-Caster?!" she stammered. Caster smiled as his flame armor activated, "Lady Silver," he said bowing. The man growled and Caster chuckled, "Nightwalker.... And Anru Exion...." he said. Silver stood up, her silver hair tinted blue with a new aura burning bright, "You're late Caster," she sapt. Caster shrugged, "A hero's never on time," he said. Silver rolled her eyes "Whatever... I'm killing that Exion and then taking a bubble bath," she said. Caster laughed as he sent up a wall of flames to protect Gidget. Nightwalker growled and slashed forward at Silver. Silver flipped back forming small black blade in her mouth. Nightwalker pulled forth a black blade, the words shin Ryu could be seen carved into the blade, half the lettering was red, the other half green. Silver smirked placing the blade lightly over her thumb and pointer finger "I've heard of that blade," she said eyeing it carefully. Nightwalker raised an eyebrow, "This blade? How?" He questioned. Caster and Anru started their fight in the distance. "Reasons," She said with a smirk as she turned her blade in the light. The simple kanji for Courage was engraved in light green. Nightwalkers eyes narrowed, "That's not an answer... How do you know the name of Shin Ryu?!" He said, his voice snapped to a lighter tone as if someone else was taking to her. "I like to read..." She said her tone soft, "Call it a mate hunch," she said. Nightwalker raised an eyebrow, "Mate..... Hunch?" He said starting to circle. She watched him going quiet Toxic Rose raised towards him. Nightwalker smiled and his eyes turned electric blue, and bloodshot. Two different energies seemed to reveal themselves to Silver. She watched him, her body relaxed. Her energy seemed to call out to the other one, the good one in Nightwalker Nightwalkers energies began to conflict and he quickly waved the good one off, "Sorry... I still need him..." he slashed a wave of pure dark matter at Silver. Silver moved away from the energy with ease "I don't know what you're talking about, but it seems you have too much energy in that body of yours!" she said. Nightwalker disappeared and reappeared behind her and slashed forward and a shadow arm like Naruto's chakra aura stretched forward. Silver closed her eyes as she waited for the intended attack Nightwalkers chakra code came forward before his physical body did. Silver crosses her blade over her back and took a deep breath. Nightwalker laughed and the chakra arm slashed forward and he sent an energy blast from his physical body. Silver only smirked and placed her hands in a simple pose giving the view of a weak child to Nightshade's eyes within Nightwalker. Nightshades body contorted and writhed in agony, "Let me out!!!!" He roared. A quick explosion of dark energy pushed Silver back. Nightwalker stood breathing heavily, *She knows my secret now.... I have to capture her quickly....* he thought. Nightwalker ripped off a piece of clothing on him and blindfolded himself. Silver smirked and sent Toxic Rose away calling forth Celestial Rose "Asgard... call." She said to the blade as a child started calling for help from the blade. Nightwalkers senses where dulling due to this, Silver noted this and moved swiftly, her reflexes enhanced. Nightwalkers body bulked up and a new energy surrounded him as he pushed forward with an intense invisible force. The energy pushed Silver back once more, "I'm not going to need my hearing or sight any longer!" He chuckled. Silver slid back and relaxed her stance, she slid in front of him, calm, cool and collected. "But your body still reads Aura. You still feel my vibrations on the ground. Words are vibrations, sounds are vibrations," She smiled. Nightwalker nodded, "That may be true, but from what I can tell, the techniques you wield have no effect on the energy I am using now," he said smiling. He held Shin Ryu high into the air, "You're defeat is clear," he said darkly. "I don't need energy... I will fight you with pure strength, it's what I must do to protect my friends... If it means that my stay here among friends is shorter then so be it! Darkness will never conquer the light! That's how it's always been, and will always be... Always and forever!" She cried out completely vanishing from his senses. Nightwalker smiled, "Lovely phrase... Sounds all to...." he paused turning and catching her in midriff with his energy and pulling her close to his face, "Familiar...." he growled. She smirked and head butted Nightwalker. The sound of bone crunching could be heard. Nightwalker released her. The needle like pain returning, "I just fixed this thing!" he roared. Silver laughed and slashed forward with Celestial Rose. The edge of the blade glowing with a holy light. Nightwalker side stepped avoiding her attack and cut her side with the very edge of Shin Ryu. It's electric and flame tongue core bit into her slightly paralyzing one of her legs. Silver rolled growling dropping to all fours her blade over her back. "Ishta!" Silver growled baring her teeth at him, small rose buds formed under her feet. Nightwalker smiled making a come at me gesture while holding Shin Ryu in a backward position. She wasn't watching him, more so the soul within him. The rose buds turned to roses as she remained still. Nightwalker sighed and slowly advanced. Nightwalkers soul was dominating the lighter soul, a barrier seemed to be subduing the lighter souls control. Silver waited her blue eyes overcast white. Vines formed around Nightwalker restraining him. They were being controlled by Silvers mental health, the vines were thick and strong. The vines seemed to be formed of energy not organic material. Nightwalker growled and sent forth a volley of lightning from his body into the vines. The vines didn't move, they stayed secured. Silver dashed to Nightwalker kicking him in the chest, sending him flying away. Nightwalker crashed into a the castle, rubble and walls collapsed on top of him. Nightwalker was in shock keeping him pinned motionless. A large explosion occurred behind Silver between Caster and the Exion. Silver landed on her hands and performed a back handspring. The Exion was sent sprawling on his back, small flames danced and ate away at his flesh. The aura around Gidget began to intensify and the flames around Awkright began to change. The flames now circled in green and light blue fire. Silver poked the Exion with her blade before falling over. Her leg bleeding "Ishta..." she hissed. Caster came over and touched her wound, white flames engulfed the wind searing it shut. The Exion was unconscious not dead. Caster sighed, "Can't believe Anru was resurrected... He was one of the toughest Exion Nightshade had ever fought. It literally took the combined efforts of him and Ninyns latent power to destroy him," he said. Silver had her eyes closed "Really?" she asked wide eyes. The young wolf goddess enjoyed hearing new tales. Caster nodded, "It was about 10-15 years ago that this occurred. Nightshade "died" using his most powerful techniques. Ninyn was left in shock for a long time in the matter of our lives. Regarding a story, not that long. Anywho, Ninyn soon after inherited Nightshades fiery passion to protect and saved the people of Onimak. Of course the battle between us and Anru was different because he actually had a brain back then. Now.... Now he's an animal... Nightwalker twisted him into a slave, nothing more," he said pushing the Exion down the stairs. Silver sat up nodding, "Strange..." she mumbled. Caster nodded turning towards Gidget, "Her ritual.... It's full resurrection.... No wonder she didn't give all the details," he said. "That's what she's doing?" Silver asked sending the celestial blade away. Caster nodded, "Yes. The question remains... Who's she trying to resurrect?" He said Nightwalker slowly crawled out if the shadows observing the situation. Slowly the white energy swirling around began to change into star like streams of magic! Nightwalkers eyes widened as the lights grew brighter, "Noo!!" He roared sending out a lance of dark energy. Casters eyes widened as he pushed Silver out of the way intercepting the lance and taking it through his chest. The lance clawed forward at Gidget without a pause. Caster fell to the ground with an absent expression. Silver raced to the lance standing in front of Gidget, she placed her hands up sending a barrier of light to help hold it back "CASTER!" she cried. Silver looked back at the ritual at hand, "GIDG YOU BETTER FINISH WHAT YOU'RE DOING!" She cried out. Blood trickled out of Casters mouth slowly. Nightwalker started sending out a barrage of dark matter energy. Silver blocked each attack her own light energy fading slowly "Fuck... Caster please be ok!" she whimpered. A thunder clap and a blinding light knocked everyone to the ground. Caster was healed as an energy wave was sent out around the castle. Nightwalker rose to one knee and looked up towards the spot of the ritual, "No!" He roared. With a lunge he grabbed an unconscious Silver by her neck and the two teleported to the shadow realm! > Light amongst The Glade > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nightwalker had Silver changed up and hanging against a wall stripped of everything but her clothing and Ravens charm. Silver's head was down, her body morphing to its hell form due to the constant negative energy surrounding her. A few days went by, a girl with blue hair and dark blue high lights came and fed her food and water for awhile. Nightwalker visited but never spoke, he sat and studied the woman quite interested. The color in his eyes kept flickering been violet and hazel. Silver had morphed fully into its hell form, her eyes blood red, the fur on her body was now blue and white. When the girl with the blue hair came to feed her she would growl but while Nightwalker was there she would stare at him with hate. One night Nightwalker came and smiled at her, "I can see multiple aspects within you Silver Tataganay... So how's about I make a deal with you," he said. Her eyes went to their blue and stayed "I don't make deals with monsters!" Nightwalker smirked, "But you're an outcast monster. I've done some research on your realm. Tataganay were quite feared in your realm," he said smiling. "We are feared... but not monsters." She said cooly Nightwalker sighed, "We can settle this the civilized way or the hard way," he said gruffly, "Join me and I'll restore your fallen clan and make things easier in your realm for you," he said. She spat in his face and snarled "I stood against Hades and Zeus. I'm not afraid of a glorified Demon!" she roared. Her roar became amplified and it pushed Nightwalker back a little bit. Nightwalker laughed, "Milady... I am much more than a glorified demon," he said as his finger nails became needless, "I am Nightwalker, the complete opposite of The Gallant and everything he stands for!" He said jamming the needles into her stomach. Silver let out a loud cry as they entered her stomach "Fuck you!" She cried in pain. Nightwalkers eyes turned black as he sent volts of negative energy into her body, "Nah ah ah! It's only the first date!" He cackled. She tossed her head back as much as she could and cried out in agony. Nightwalker retracted the needles and smiled, "I just sealed away your demonic half. A little bit of time travel, a little bit of murder and you learn a lot about a single person," he said. Silver fell limp as her fur receded, blood dripped down her stomach. Her skin was pale and her eye sight was foggy, "Fuck you...", she mumbled. Nightwalker chuckled, "Not at the moment my dear~ I'll see you in the morning," he chuckled. He snapped his fingers cleaning her. Silver glared at him as he left, once he was gone she looked up and sent a whisper out into the air "Someone... please help me," she whimpered. Days went by and Nightwalker continued his torture never touching her besides his needle punctures. Silver refused to join him each time, slowly though the darkness from the realm was taking the light from her body Nightwalker sighed as he left the room each night, "She dies, She commits, either way a blow to the light," he said. Though as the sessions had progressed light of The Gallants spirit began to call out to Silver. Silver would smile more feeling the call, she would try to call back. But due to her refusing food, and her light fading more. It was harder for her to respond to his call. Ravens words echoed in her mind from their lessons on Onimak, "You must let go to move on to a better light. Even if it means submitting a little, in the end if you speak just right you can overcome any means of persuasion," Silver gave a smile and nodded to herself. The next day a man with a beast arm and white hair came in letting her down from her chains so she could eat, "I honestly don't know why you won't side with us... Us beast people have to stick together fit survival, but I'll resurrect your honor," he said leaving quickly. She lay on the ground and rose slowly and grabbed his foot. Viral turned around, "What are you doing?" he growled. "Bring me to Nightwalker.." Silver said weakly. Viral raised an eyebrow, "Why?" "Like you said... we beast people must stick together." She said wiggling her ears. Viral blinked and shrugged picking her up and dragging her to the throne room. Nightwalker raised an eyebrow, "Why have you brought her here?" He questioned. Viral didn't speak, he just dropped Silver on the floor. Silver winced "I will side with you... " She said softly her. Nightwalker blinked, "Prove it...." he said She moved to a kneeling and look up "How can I prove it sir?" She asked the words vinegar on her tongue Nightwalker smiled wickedly, "You could start by telling me what you know about the sentients plans are to stop me and what became of Ninyn Yamanakou," he said "I truly do not know. I only know what I am told. I had barely any interaction with the others except Gidget and the rest of the people she had gathered. Ninyn was in a coma and there was no sign of life in him except normal bodily functions," She said finally being thank full for her lack of memory due to the torture. Nightwalker sighed, "I guess it can't be helped.... Dazzlings.... Take her to your room and get her cleaned up and rejuvenated," he said. The Dazzlings brought her to their room. Silver glared at the sirens with hate "Just because I am on your side doesn't mean I like you," She said to them. Adagio and Aria rolled their eyes, "Sonata be a dear and get her cleaned up and all that. We've got some errands to run," She says. The blue haired one from before sighed, "Ooooh for realzies?!" She cheered. The other two girls left and Sonata helped Silver pick out clothes, "Do you like tacos?" she asked. "I like raw meat... and all these clothes are horrid," Silver said a little agitated, "You're a cute kid... It's a shame you're not able to side with The Sentients," She said pulling on a simple outfit. Silver wore black shorts, black boots and a blue tank top. She pulled her hair back into a ponytail and tied it off at the end with a bow. Sonata shrugged, "Sorry. I don't pick the clothing. I'm not mean like the other guys, and I also know you're not on our side," She said grabbing her shoulder, Silver blinked trying to read the girl as she spoke again, "If you don't want to blow your cover please be besties with me till this is over," She pleaded. Silver to a shaky breath, "Fine I will be your bestie... whatever that means... How are you so sure I'm not on their side?" she asked. Sonata cheered and hugged Silver between her boobs. Silver grunted and pushed her back, "Please don't hug me..." She said. Sonata frowned, "Sorry... And to answer your question my magic allows me to read emotions and from your emotions I can tell you're quite mad with Nightwalker, and someone who sides with another isn't generally mad but isn't particularly nice either," she said. Silver gave her a weak smile, *She's good,* she thought. With a sigh in defeat Silver giggled, "Well... I can't honestly argue with that honestly... So what do we do next bestie?" she asked. Sonata shrugged, "You've gotta go talk to mister mean and nasty out there," She said. "Nightwalker... ok then.. Sona thanks for being nice to me." She said happily a small light in her eyes. Sonata smiled and walked off to get food. Silver took her leave to Nightwalker Nightwalker was sitting on his throne looking at a monitor as she walked in. He noticed her presence and he looked up, "Don't you look ravishing," he said rolling his eyes. Silver fixed her shirt and looked at him "I suppose, the Sirens didn't have much to choose from in my style. So I chose the most simple thing I could find, though I wish the shorts weren't so tight," she said showing off her ass. Nightwalker laughed, "I'll make amends some way or another. I don't have the same qualities that the palace had," he said. Silver nodded grudgingly. Nightwalker took a deep breath, "Well... Night is drawing near and I know you're tired. You can choose to sleep with me or share a bed with one of the sirens," he said. "I prefer you... Sona may be sweet but I feel like she kicks," Silver said blushing a little. Nightwalker chuckled, "As you wish," he said. He held out a hand to her. She took his hand and smiled, if she was gonna stay here she might as well get in good with the boss... Even as this happened her light half seemed to fade more. Nightwalker undressed into shorts and jumped into bed stretching. Silver laid beside him on her side. She wanted to undress, but wasn't comfortable enough to do so. Nightwalker sighed softly and drifted to sleep. Slowly Silver began to notice the power around Nightwalker fade. Silver tossed a few times, but stayed awake trying to keep herself occupied. Her mind wandering, she was restless and uncomfortable... A voice chirped in the night, "N...Ninyn....", Silver jumped looking for the source of the voice. It was Nightwalker but... not Nightwalker. She looked to Nightwalker and hesitated to touch him "Ninyn?" she whispered. The voice was gentle, "I'm... I'm sorry..." he moaned She touched Nightwalker gently "Who are you?" "Night....Nightshade..." he said. "The Gallant.." She whispered pursing her lips, "Mate bond..." She mumbled Nightwalker turned over and Nightshade's aura began to fade. Silver turned away from him and tried to sleep, she ended up stripping to her underwear. Nightwalker woke up first and headed down to the food court and looked back at silver for a moment. Silver was above the blanket shivering asleep all the same He rolled his eyes and put a blanket on her quickly examining her body before leaving. She had a few scars and wounds but nothing wrong. Nightwalker shook his head and left for the kitchen. Silver ended up on the floor with a slam. She remained passed out on the floor sprawled out. Nightwalker returned later with bacon in his mouth. Silver had curled up on the floor, blood pooled from her mouth Nightwalker blinked and nudged her with an eyebrow raised. She coughed and opened her eyes. He blinked, "What happened... Why are you bleeding," he asked a little irritated. "Nothing. Don't worry sir." She said standing up. He scowled, "Don't play that with me. Why are you bleeding," he asked. "I don't now master!" She growled He sighed and put a hand on her, a surge of light energy flowed through her healing all damage. She gasped "why are you being kind to me?" she said covering her breasts with the blanket. Nightwalker rolled his eyes, "It's only to make sure I have more forces than the sentients. You'll be helpful in beating them," he growled. Silver narrowed her eyes, "And what if I don't fight them?" she snapped. Nightwalker smiled, "Then I'll devour your very essence and physical being and absorb your abilities and wisdom," he said one eye turning black. She smirked at him, "Sounds kinky~" she said licking her lips. Nightwalker blinked and blushed slightly , "Go eat," he ordered. "Not hungry.. " She said Nightwalker growled, "Eat..... Or you'll sleep in a bucket of worms," he challenge. Silver shivered and started walking to go eat. Her tail wished behind her. Nightwalker shrugged shutting his door to change The Dazzlings were in the food court along with Viral. Silver entered the food court frowning. They all stared at her except Sonata, "Bestie!! Eat with me!!" She cried. No one was sitting with her. Silver nodded and headed to her "why won't anyone with you?? Thought you were part of the Dazzlings?" she asked. Sonata shrugged, "So long as we're here they can be free of me. They don't like my happy personality. They're all take over the world. I think there should be time to relax and chill," She said eating a taco. Silver frowned at the taco "I am sorry that they are uptight "she said not eating Sonata passed her a taco, "It's ok," "Thank you Sona," Silver said biting into the taco. Her eyes lit up realizing it was a chicken taco! Sonata smiled, "You're welcome!" She chimed. Silver smiled happily and gently pushed Sona "Sona, what is there to do for fun?" she asked with a mouth full. Sonata frowned, "I can mind control Exion to do stupid stuff," She said Silver scoffed, "No water? Like actual swimming holes? Strip clubs? I thought this place would have some sort of entertainment?!" she cried. Sonata shrugged, "I'm not really into "clubs". Though I do have to agree with you on the swimming part. Sonata smiled and dragged her behind the castle and Silver laughed following her. There Sonata sang subtly making Exion do circus tricks and comedy acts, even had some kill each other. Silver watched amused with the act, "That's amazing!! " she exclaimed. Sonata smiled and nodded as she let go of them. The Exion all mumbled and groaned in frustration. Silver smiled happily, " You sure are very talented Sona," she said. Sonata shrugged, "My powers are allot stronger when I'm with the others," She said "Wow... My abilities are based on how much I want to win... In a sense," Silver said scratching her head. Sonata nodded, "Mine depends on how much negative energy from other people I consume," she said looking at Silvers tail, "Can I pet it?!" she cried. "Wow... lucky me that you're not part of my realm, and sure... Be careful it turns me on in some places," Silver said. Her tone was odd, like it was a normal thing that happened Sonata blushed, "O-oh," She said nervously petting it. Silver gave a wolf like purr at the feeling "I haven't had someone pet my tail since I was taken from my family... My last mate did it all the time," she said softly. Sonata frowned, "The girls are my only family I suppose," "I can be your family... " Silver said pulling Sona close to her like a mother. Sonata blushed add pushed away, "I Just remembered that I'm actually 15,000 years old!" She said blushing, "A memory came back when I was in Equestria," she cried. Silver blinked, "You're that old?!" she cried. Sonata nodded slowly, "I'm just as surprised as you are!" she said. The girls looked at each other and both laughed themselves silly. Silver giggled "You're the only good thing here Sona," she said hugging her. Sonata teared up and hugged her back tightly. Silver smiled at her, "Don't worry... We'll get you out of this mess somehow..." she said. In the distance they could hear Nightwalker yelling at one of the others, "What should we do? I don't want to return to Mr. Grumpy pants," Silver said a little annoyed. Sonata sighed, "Unfortunately we can't do much. I have to follow my sister's till something happens. As for you.... Get creative..... Maybe you can get past the mind control on that Gallant guy and save us," she said. "I can try Sona... but with Nightwalker around it's hard," Silver said. Sonata blushed, "Try that charm you've got.... No one's noticed but... I know it helps with charm speak.... Seduce Nightwalker..." she said nervously. Silver nods "I should go, see you around lunch time Bestie?" Sonata smiled, "Bestie!" She cried while hugging her tightly. Silver rubbed the top of Sona's head, "See you then Sona-chan." She said heading back to Nightwalker. Nightwalker was lying in his room reading a book. Silver knocked on the door activating the charm with ease. Nightwalker sighed, "Yes?" he asked. "May I enter?" Her voice came out soft and alluring. Nightwalker nodded, "You may," he said. Silver entered and smiled to him "I'm bored Sir." She said sitting on the bed. He shrugged, "Go train, Do something productive," he said. "There isn't much for me to do.." She said laying beside him "what are you reading?" She asked running her finger along his arm "It's a horror story I found in the earth realm that believes it created all of the other realms," Nightwalker sighed, "It's called Star Wars: Red Harvest. It's about zombie. Sith. Quite interesting actually," he said. "Interesting... I never have been to the earth Realm what's it like?" She asked leaning on him a bit. Nightwalker shrugged, "Boring. I want to wipe it off the face of every realm first," he said a little irritated. Silver shrugged "other cultures interest me.. but you interest me more Nightwalker sir," she said lustfully. Nightwalker raised an eyebrow, "How so?" he asked. She shrugged and laid back on the bed, "Did you sleep well last night?" she asked. She was curious to see if he remembered Nightshade regaining control for a bit. He blinked, "As well as you did," he said "So not at all?" Silver said. Nightwalker chuckled, "I slept fine. It's easy for myself to sleep," "Sadly I could not sleep, due to feeling a bit lonely." She stated running her finger on his arm Nightwalker sighed, "I'm sorry to hear that. Not too much company to find in this realm," She nodded and sighed looking at him, she was hoping the charm was working. Nightwalker sighed, "Though if you ever need any.... "Release" I'm sure I can help you with that," he said with a smirk. She nodded smiling, "What if I need a gentle touch?" Silver asked purring. Nightwalker blinked, "Gentle touch?" he asked a little confused. "Being Caressed, Held, how real men care for their women," Silver huffed. Nightwalker blinked, "I.... I could.... T-try...," he stammered. Silver smiled and laid her head back on his chest. Nightwalker blushed a little. Silver rubbed her head to his chest and gazed at him, her eyes their normal beautiful blue His eyes flickered to hazel for an instant then back to violet. Silver smiled happily to him. Her fingers tracing his chest. He looked away feeling a little foolish. Silver smiled and closed her eyes. Morning came quickly. Silver surprisingly slept soundly during the night. Nightwalker was in the shower, steam was pouring out of the bathroom. Silver was in his bed, she had morphed into wolf form for a stretch but ended up passing out naked and half morphed. Nightwalker returned laying in bed. Silver rolled next to him and nuzzling his chest and pulling his arm close to her. Her breasts warm to the touch as she caressed his arm. He blinked looking at her. She opened her eyes and smiled "Nightwalker, I miss the grass.. and actual Sun light... my fur is dingy from lack of Sun, can we go to another realm and swim in a lake?" she asked a little sadly. Nightwalker sighed, "Fine....." he said standing. Clothes suddenly wrapped around him, "Come on," he said. Silver leaped up her tail waving happily as she did so. She pulled on the same outfit she got from the Dazzlings and hugged him "Thank you!" She barked. He rolled his eyes and teleported the two to a lake in Onimak. Silver raced to the water stripping her clothes down as she leaped in, "Come join me please~" she cooed. He rolled his eyes, "No... I'm going to lay in the shadows... This is the only place I can respect The Gallant for enjoying," he growled. She nodded and dived into the water, heading deep. Her lungs meant for this kind of thing seeing as back home she would swim oceans for fun. She reached the bottom and sent a small tug of light towards Nightshade to see if she could get a response. She made it seem like it came from somewhere not near where she was. Nightwalker never noticed and no response was heard. She huffed and surfaces quickly, her normal self replenished and her fur on her ears brighter once more, "I feel amazing!" She cried. Nightwalker opened one eye slowly looking at her. She raced out the water to him, "Nightwalker!" She cried happily batting her eyes flirtatiously "Please, I want your touch~" she cooed. Nightwalker blushed looking away but he sighed and jumped into the water with her sourly. She swam to him, her eyes bright and star like. Nightwalker blushed a little looking away, "Why do you look at me that way..." he said nervously. "What way?" She asked floating in front him. Her head cocked to the side her ears flopped over cutely. Nightwalker blushed, "Your eyes.... There filled with affection.... Quit acting so... Cute like..." he growled. "They are?" She questioned looping her arms over his shoulders with a wide smile, "They only do that when I recognize a mate... Strange isn't it? You're a bad guy and I am a good guy... In a sense any ways," She said her eyes filled with an affectionate glow Nightwalkers eyes flickered between violet and hazel and clutched at his head, "Nrgh! N-no!" He growled. She backed up "what?! What's wrong?" His eyes kept flickering quickly and they suddenly paused at hazel, "K-kill me....." "How?" She asked quickly her eyes still affectionate Nightshade fought hard focusing his energy, he formed a green kunai and placed it in her hands, "N-Ninyn!" He fell back unconscious for a moment. She nodded and took off hoping she was heading to the sentient palace. *Fuck! I am gonna get killed!* She cried in her mind Nightwalker came speeding forward grabbing her by the hair making her drop the kunai, "Damn you!!" he roared. He stumbled a bit as Nightshade fought against his control. She cried put in pain her head following his grip. "NINYN!!!!!!!!!" She cried hoping for some help, any help... Nightwalker growled breaking her leg and teleporting them to the shadow realm torture room. Silver cried out in pain. Her leg was bent at a weird angle and the pain was burning through her. Nightwalker slammed her into a wall that came to life with tendrils. They were slimy and course as they slithered around Silvers body. Silver didn't flinch, she was nervous however as the tendrils began to rub her in uncomfortable places. She growled looking at the monster, she wouldn't give into a monster like Nightwalker so easily. Nightwalker raised his sword, "Die!!" He roared slashing forward. As he swung down a white light hit the room and a shockwave of power began to shake the room apart pinning Nightwalker to the ground, an explosion followed. Silver was knocked unconscious and was teleported somewhere else. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Silver's breath was shaky as she awoke, she didn't care where she was. She only wanted to fix her leg, trying to push her leg back into place with a scream. Silver lay on the ground of where she was teleported, her breathing shaky, her leg in pain. Suddenly her leg was put back in place completely healed with no pain. A young man with bandages around his eyes stood over the edge of a hill. Silver looked around realizing they were in Onimak and they had appeared in a glade. It was night. Silver looked to the man with a heartfelt gaze and a warmth she hadn't felt in a long time filled her with courage. In the distance two other figures could be seen. A young woman and a young man. The man standing on the hill above the glade had messy black hair, and wore black and white clothing with peculiar armor. It was quite clear who Silvers savior was. Silver smiled brightly holding the kunai Nightshade given her, *Things are about to get interesting...* she thought. Things were really starting to look up now. The Light has awoken, and Courage was ready to lead the path to a better tomorrow.