> Champion of Equestria: Dark Desires
>  by Buddy Hooves
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Chapter 1: Adjustment 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        "I'm ready whenever you are." Shining Armor said, taking a defensive stance infront of me.

"Got it. Just so we're clear, it's the same bet as last time." I proclaimed with a smirk. Me and Shining Armor were both in an open area inside the Crystal Empire. Several of the royal guards circled around us, watching our little sparring match.

"You got this sir!" one of the guards cheered for Shining. "Come on, Mark! I got 60 bits riding on you." Another one shouted. Yeah. That makes me feel much better. I thought before sizing up my target.

Ever since I was made a 'Champion of Equestria' by princess Celestia, i've been acting as a front line soldier. Going all around the borders of Equestria, and dealing with monsters and events before they got out of hoof. And although I was much better at combat and spell casting then what I was when I first started, I was still no match against Shining Armor. He was captain of the royal guards, and had years of experience on me.

"What's the matter? Don't tell me you got cold feet on me." Shining smirked. 

Charging up my horn, I fired a magic bolt right at his head. He quickly blocked it with his shield magic, but that sure took the smile off his face. Pressing my attack, I charged up my horn again while rushing right at him. I fired point blank at his shield, and while he was able to keep it up, it did slide him back a few feet. Neither of us could keep using our magic like we currently were, and we both knew it.

Which is what I was counting on.

As soon as Shining Armor dropped his shield, I didn't give him a moment to relax. I threw every punch and kick I had at him, hoping to throw him off before he could counter. I loved the thrill of my heart pumping and my body working overtime. I was in the zone. And then Shining did something that caught me off guard. He threw up his protect shield with me still in it.

"I got you now." Shining said. As he took advantage of my confusion, and went on the attack. Now it was my turn to block and dodge.

The guards around us cheered with excitement. They were loving the show we was giving them. But unless I did something quick, the match would be over, and like last time, I'd never hear the end of it. I couldn't teleport away, and I didn't have much room to work with. So I decided to take a gamble. Charging up my horn, I waited for Shining to throw the right punch at me. Then, instead of blocking the attack, I let him connect with a hoof in the side of me face. It hurt like hell, but when it hit I released my sonic wave spell. The screeching caused both of us to flinch in pain, covering our ears to avoid the sound. But he dropped the shield, and that was just the opening I needed.

Before he recoverd, I connected with a few lucky hits on him. But he then threw his own attacks right back at me, and we were now matching each other blow for blow. I need to end this fast! I thought. So after a quick perry, I jumped back and took to the sky. Now, I want to make it clear, I can't fly. The days when I was channelling the raw power of Sombra, and was able to do those crazy anime moves were over. But I was a full unicorn now. And these past few months had taught me how to control my magic with ease. And althought I couldn't fly, using a fraction of magic to soar high into the air was no problem.

With Shining Armor on the ground, and me in the air, I starting charging my horn up for one final attack. "Let's see you dodge this one!" I shouted down at him. The circle of guards started to worry. Some even backing as far back as they could. But Shining Armor just stood calm, and began charging up his horn as well. After a few seconds of preparing, we both fired our magic beams straight at each other. Both connected with a loud BOOM, and we both found ourselfs in the middle of a power beam struggle.

"You're not going to win this time!" I shouted, determined to win.

"No way. I'm not done yet." Shining grunted. He focused all his strength into the beam.

But luck was on my side. While I wasn't as powerful as I was when I defeated the Sombra possessed dragon, I was still a powerful unicorn when it came to magic. I wasn't as strong as the princesses were, but then again, niether was Shining. And I could feel his beam starting to weakin. Now was my chance to press the attack.

Now's my chance to finish him off once and for all...

The sudden thought caught me completely off guard. Before I could recover, Shining gave one last push, and won the beam struggle. His magic hit me straight on. I screamed before falling down to the ground. I soon connected with the earth with a loud THUD, knocking all the air from my lungs.

"ouch." I moaned. As I blinked the stars out of my eyes. I soon saw that Shining was standing over me, bearing a smug grin.

"I believe that this round is mine." Shining said. He then held a hoof out to help me up.

"I guess so. But you gotta admit, I came closer that time." I commented, before taking the hoof and pushing myself back up.

The guards around us cheered. Some even collected some bits from the others, much to their regret. After a few moments, the crowd around us dissolved, until it was Shining Armor, me, and a few guards. They quickly came up to us, with smiles on there faces.

"Excellent work, sirs." said the gray pegasus. His name was Fletfoot. "You gave the boys one heck of a show."

"Are you okay, Mark?" The white unicorn, named Light Flake asked. "You took a nasty fall there." 

"Yeah, I'm fine. Just my pride was hurt is all." I said with a hint of disappointment. 

"Don't feel too bad. If anything, I noticed how much your combat skills have improved in these past few months." Shining Armor reassured me.

"Besides, out of everypony that's challenged the captain, you're the the only one that's even come close to beating him." Fletfoot said, jabbing his hoof into my arm alittle harder then I would have liked.

All right, everypony. The show's over. Return to your posts." Shining ordered as our captain. "And Mark... Princess Twilight would like you to write her another friendship report as soon as your shift ends."

And with that, Shining Armor left us and the opened courtyard to no doubt continue his royal duties. And spend time with his wife and newborn daughter.

"Just remember your side of the deal." Fletfoot winked at me before walking off.

"Thanks for buying our drinks again." Light Flake waved at me before heading off to join him.

Well.... Shit. I thought to myself. Another sum of pay down the drain.






My name is Mark Less Stevens. And I used to be human. It was almost a whole year ago, that I found a strange looking crystal that transported me into Equestria, and started all these strange events that have lead to my new life. And a long story it was. But I'll pull a page off of my good friend Pinkie Pie, and try to tell the short version.

First I woke up in Everfree Forest, as a blue earth pony. I was then chased by some timberwolfs, and fell from a cliff into a river. I was found by the zebra, Zecora, who nursed me back to health before taking me into Ponyville. Once in Ponyville, I met the greatest mares that soon became my bestest friends. Pinkie Pie, Applejack, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Rarity, and Twilight Sparkle. But that's when I also learned somepony was after me, as a giant rock golem attacked.

That's when I learned that the crystal gave me some unknown power.

After that, Twilight, Princess Celestia and Princess Luna tried to find the connection to everything about me. While that went on, I stayed in Twilight's castle, and started to adjust to my new life as a pony. I grew to love my new friends, and was even slowly started to learn how to tap into that strange magic I now had. But that's when trouble decided to pop its ugly head out again. This time in the form of three griffin mercs, lead by one named Dark Claw. It was a tough fight, as I had a few close calls and ran into a den of quarray eels. But thanks to my friends, in the end I was able to use my magic (in the form of a Kamehameha Wave) to save the day.

More time passed, and soon it was time for the Grand Galloping Gala. And that's when all hell broke lose. Dark Claw showed back up, as well as the one behind everything. Sombra. Who had now possessed the body of a black dragon. The girls and I defeated Dark Claw easily enough, but that's when the real problem started. It was then we all learned that Sombra had stored his spirit away inside of two crystals. One that a dragon found, and one that I found. It was then I realized that it was Sombra's magic I was using the whole time. It was sickening.

Sombra informed Princess Celestia, Luna, and the girls that if they defeated him in that form, his spirit would move on to possess me. Using that to his advantage, the girls couldn't, and wouldn't hurt Sombra for fear of what would happen to me. Deciding to put a stop to him once for all, I channeled all the power I had into another epic DBZ move (Vegeta would have been proud). But the move left me hanging on by a thead, and true to his word, Sombra's spirit did try to take me over. Princess Celestia, Princess Luna and Twilight used their combined magic to banish Sombra spirit from me. But by then, the damage had been done.

I now looked like a unicorn version of Sombra. Except with blue eyes.

After everything was all said and done, Princess Celestia had me knighted. I was now known as the Champion of Equestria. And although I would have loved to have stayed in Ponyville and live a peaceful life with my friends, I just couldn't. I was afraid. Though I told no one about it, Sombra's memories and mine were too woven together now. I wasn't the same pony that they grew attached to. I wasn't the same pony that Applejack fell in love with.

So I decided to take my new role as Equestria's protector more seriously, and choose to sign up with a special unit of royal guards. I was assigned to camps near the border of Equestria, to handle any threat that would dare invade this peaceful land. There, I was able to make friends like Fletfoot and Light Flake, as well as practice controlling my magic. During those following months, I dealt with things like guard duty, noble escort, and monster patrol. An encounter with a hydra earned me respect among my unit.

But I didn't cut all my ties to my friends in Ponyville during this time. Twilight made me promise that I'd write every so often to inform them what I was up to, and in return she did the same. Twilight told me how her and the girls have been busy during my time way, and how they were summoned by the 'Cutie Map' to go on friendship quests. She told me about all the things they were up to since then, and even about things they experienced during that time. They even reformed a new rival named Starlight Glimmer, and she was now staying in Twilight 's castle.

It was about the time that I was infomed that Shining Armor and Princess Cadence was going to have a baby, that my unit and I was reasigned. We were posted to a camp near Yakyakistan, to protect the trade route between them and the Crystal Empire from snow monsters. It was a tough assignment, as the blistering cold and isolation made life hell for most guards there. But I spent my time reading new spells I could find, and practicing my magic. And when we did get a chance to fight, I used everything I learned to good use.

But soon after, news of the new baby alicorn reached my post. And following that, a small band of my unit was sent to the Crystal Empire to help guard the new bady foal. Which is were I'm currently at. For this last month, I've been sparring with Shining Armor in my free time, while spending the rest on dull guard duty.

Today's guard duty was especially boring, as I was assigned to watch the store room. Who's going to break into a room with castle cleaning supplies? I thought to myself. Oh yes, Princess Cadence, I've stolen all your Mr. Clean and mops in the castle. If you don't surrender to me, your castle will become dirty! Dunt dunt duh! I laughed at the thought of such a thing even happening.

Just as I imagined what a villian like that could even look like, another guard came over. "your shift is done." he told me.

"That can't be right. I still have at least four more hours left." I stated.

"Sorry, but that's the orders." He said calmly. "The Princess wanted you to see her in the dining hall right away."

That doesn't sound good. I thought to myself. I wonder if anything's wrong. I quicky thanked the replacement guard before heading straight toward the dining hall.


One good thing about wearing royal guard armor was that nopony could tell who I was underneath it. As I made my way to the dinner hall, I passed a few castle staff as well as a few regular crystal ponies. Who must have been part of the castle tour that Shining Armor and Princess Cadence came up with shortly after coming to power. I was uncomfortable begin around the crystal ponies of the Crystal Empire, seeing as I looked just like their King before he went nuts. So I keeped my armor on most of the time, taking it off only at the end of my shift.

When I reached the dining hall and opened the massive doors, I found a puzzling sight. Princess Cadence was sitting at the end of the table sipping tea and eating a few fresh made muffins. From the smell, I 'd say blue berry. The only other person in the room was a servant waiting to refill her cup. Or get some more muffins.

"Mark, how nice to see you again." the Princess greeted me. "Come, join me for some tea. Will you?"

Puzzled, I took a seat not far from her. "Is everything alright, your Majesty?" I asked, before taking my helmet off and setting it beside me. The servant immediately poured me a fresh cup of tea. Which I have to say, smelled great.

"Mark, there's no need to be so formal." Cadence giggled. "Just call me Cadence. We are both friends, after all.

"As you wish." I replied before taking a sip of tea. It was heavenly. "What can I do for for?"

"That's just it. You've already done so much for me, as well as for all of Equestria." She said before setting her tea cup down with her magic. She then gave me a very serious look that seemed almost stern. "I've read up on your report file. Since you started duty as an active guard, your record has been outstanding. You've always been on time. Followed orders to a T. And took every dangerous mission that was near you." She then gave me a small smile. "Even my husband tells me of how well your skills have become."

"Thank you." I nodded. "Speaking of which, where is Shining Armor?" I asked.

"Spending some time with the baby." she answered. "Mark, listen. I've known that ever since you've been knighted, you've taken the role very seriously. But I've also know that you've sign up for posts near the end of Equestria." Oh boy. I don't like where this is going. "Almost like you've been avoiding Ponyville for some time."

I knew it. We're finally opening the can of worms, it seems.

"Mark, what's the matter? Why haven't you've returned to Ponyville?" She asked. When I looked at her, I saw her eyes were full of concern.

"Nothing's wrong, per say." I fidgeted in my chair. "I've just been busy is all. With royal guard duty."

She gave me a look of complete deadpan.

"Okay. So maybe my last few assignments have been a little lack luster." I admitted.

"Mark, I think you need a break. When aunt Celestia made gave you the title of Champion, I don't think it meant full time guard duty." She then gave me a soft smile. "Go home, Mark. Spend some time with your friends. Live your life like a normal  pony. You've more then earned it."

"But what about protecting the Empire? What if there's another threat?" I asked, worried.

"Then we will deal with it when the time comes." She simply stated. "Me and the other princesses agree that you've been pushing yourself too hard."

I said nothing, as I looked straight at the table. Deep in thought. Maybe I have been pushing myself too hard. But I can't just return to Ponyville and pretend like nothing happened. It's been well over six months. Will my friends be angry with me because of it? Will Applejack?

"Don't think so much about it."

"Huh?"

"I said, don't worry so much about it." Cadence said, snapping me back to reality. "Tomorrow, take the first train back to Ponyville and enjoy yourself."

"Okay. Just do me a favor and don't write to Twilight about this." I pleaded. "If Pinkie hears I'm on my way back, she'll freak out and I don't think the world is ready for a party of that scale." I shivered at the image. Confetti and streamers everywhere.

"Deal." Cadence laughed.

After that, I bid the princess farewell and headed back to my quarters. To not only pack my things for the trip, but tell my unit I was leaving. Something told me Fletfoot and Light Flake still expected those drinks before I left.

> Chapter 2: I'm coming home
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"I'm sure going to miss you. You big old fool." Fletfoot said as he once again, slapping my back hard.

"Be sure to take care of yourself out there." Light Flake said before reaching out for a hoof bump.

"Thanks guys. You guys take care as well." I replied. Returning the bro hoof.

True to their word, my former partners decided to see me off in the morning. When I told my unit I was leaving, they were the most upset by the news. But being the type of stallions that they was, they decided to throw me a going away party. I tried to get them to stop, tell them it wasn't a big deal. But Fletfoot would hear none of it. Even said they would show up at the train station to see me off.

And now here we were.

"Don't worry about us, Mark. Without you, guard duty will be pretty dull." Fletfoot joked.

"All passengers heading to Ponyville please board. The train will be leaving shortly." A pony by the train door yelled.

"Well guys, I got to get going. Goodbye my friends." I said before gathering my suitcase with my magic and boarding the train.

Once inside, I put the case in the compartment where suitcases and things normally go, and took my seat near the window. After several more minutes of waiting, I heard the yell "All aboard!" and the train finally started moving. Taking a look out the window, I saw Fletfoot and Light Flake as the train started to pass by. I gave them one more wave goodbye before they were gone from my sight completely. I was going to miss those two goofballs. They had become some of my closest friends in these last few months. 

But my attention soon turned to the matter at hoof. I was returning to Ponyville to face my other friends in the first time in months. I didn't know what to expect. Okay. Well I did, but that was the problem. I knew in my heart they would forgive me, but I wasn't ready to forgive myself. I was a coward for leaving the way I did.

----Flashback----

"What do ya mean ya're leaving ta join the royal guard?" Applejack asked, confused by what I just told her.

"It's true." I confirmed. "I asked Princess Celestia to sign me up to a special branch. That way, I can protect Equestria from any threat before they happen."

"But I don't understand, Mark. Why are ya doing this? Isn't Equestria safe enough? "

We both stood silent in the apple fields for several minutes. I just didn't have the heart to tell her the truth. That I was scared by my new form and mixed memories, all because of Sombra. And I was afraid that I'd become more like him over time. So I did the only thing I could think of. Avoid the problem.

"This is something I have to do." I finally replied.

"But when can I see you again?"

"I don't know. Maybe it's best to forget about me." I said as I walked away. Leaving a very sad and confused AJ alone in the field.

----Flashback ends----

The truth was, she was on my mind the whole time I was gone since then. And I felt like a jerk for leaving her the way I did. I didn't really want to break up with her, but at the time, I just couldn't tell her the truth. AJ had a thing for bring out the truth in ponies. And I wasn't ready to tell her. I had no idea how she would react when I saw her again. Would she forgive me for leaving the way I did? Or would she never speak to me again?

You weak pathetic fool. Allowing such petty thoughts to cloud your mind.

No. Not again. I placed my hooves on my head and begun to focus all my mental strength into banishing the voice from my mind. The real reason I ran away, and avoided my friends was because I could hear Sombra inside my head. It was small at first, barly above a whisper. Mocking me or trying to tell me to do things. But now his voice was loud and clear. I haven't told anyone about it yet. Not even the princesses. Truth was, the times when I did hear him was few and far between.

But it still worried me.

After a moment of focusing, my head was clear again. I hate it when he does that. I thought as I began to relax again. Truth was, I may have hated hearing him in my head, but he was always to the point. I was worrying too much about everything. I'm sure of it. The girls would be happy to see me again, and Spike would want to hear all about my adventure. I had nothing to wor....

"Is this seat taken?" A feminine voice brought me out of my thoughts.

"Huh? Oh, no. Go ahead." I replied.

A beautiful mare took the seat infront of me. She was a tall unicorn, almost the size of Princess Cadence. She was a pink mare with a dark purple mane and deep green eyes. Beautiful eyes. I almost couldn't stop myself from looking into them. I also notice she had purple eye shadow and pink lipgloss.

"Nice train ride." I said. Shifting my gaze to the window to avoid starring at her.

"Mmmm-hmmm. Very peaceful." She calmly replied.

"You on your way to Ponyville?" I asked. I looked back to her, but avoided eye contact with her.

"Yes. I'm on my way to take care of some business there." She answered me with a smile. "How about you?"

"I'm visiting my friends." I replied. "I've been away for some time."

"Oh. And why's that?" She gave me a curious look. 

"I left to get away for awhile." I answered. Though I kept my gaze on the floor. Wasn't a comfortable subject to talk about, even with total strangers. "I.... I needed some time to think things over, is all."

There was a pause of silence after that. For a moment, I thought she decided to be silent about the subject. Which was fine by me.

"Don't worry, Mark. Twilight and her friends will welcome you back with open arms."

"What? How did you know m...."

When I looked up at the mare, she was leaning close to me and starring right at me. It was then I noticed that her green eyes were glowing. Those beautiful green eyes. I couldn't look away, even if I wanted to.

"Your... eyes..." was all I was able to say in my trance.

"Do you find them pretty?" She purred.

"I... I..." 








"Queen Chrysalis. We meet again." Mark said in a darker tone. He snapped his eyes shut, breaking the trance she had him in. When he opened his eyes again, his pupals turned red and the white of his eyes were a sick green.

"Sombra!" She jumped back into her seat in surprise. "So the rumors were true." She kept her current form, but allowed her voice to take it's original sound.

"It's me. My spirit is bound by this pony now." He calmly stated.

"I had heard that you returned in the form of a black dragon and attacked Canterlot." 

"It was true. My goal was to get my revenge on the princesses, as well as Twilight and her friends." Sombra explained. "And the kicker was, if they defeated me again, I would possess their friend Mark here and still destroy Canterlot."

"Judging by the looks of things, I'd say your plan worked." Chrysalis pointed out.

Sombra gave a soft sigh. "Yes, and no. With the powers he gain from me, Mark used them to defeat me in my dragon form. In his weaken state, I did try to take him over, but the princesses used their magic to banish me." He then took a moment to stare out the window. "But then something happened that no pony could have for seen. We merged in spirits."

"I don't understand. What does that mean?"

"It means I'm now tied to this pony for the rest of my days." He turned away from the window to look straight at her. "He's more like me now, and I'm more like him."

Queen Chrysalis took a moment to think about what he just said. After which, a wicked smile formed on her face.

"Then what's to stop you from taking your revenge now?" she asked. Taking a seat next to him. "Let's work together. With our powers combined, we could easily take over this land once and for all."

Sombra leaned in close to her, a smile formed on his face. "I would love nothing more then to help you get revenge against Celestia and the others. But I can't. At least, not yet."

"Oh phooey." Chrysalis huffed. Leaning on the seat. "Well, if I ever need to see you again, I know where to find you." She then calmly stood up to look right at him. "Just be careful, Sombra. It's a dangerous game your playing."

"I could say the same about you." He smiled.

"How about a snack for the road?" She asked, before leaning in and kissing him.

Sombra was surprised at first, but quickly relaxed into it, returning the kiss. He would be lieing if he said he didn't enjoy it, for it had been ages since he felt the touch of another. The short kiss quickly became many, as in between breathes their tongues found each other. Queen Chrysalis almost moaned with delight. To her, it wasn't just making out, but her feeding. Sombra had willingly opened himself up to her, and she was drinking in deep all the emotions she sensed within him. 

She tasted all the emotions inside him. Regret, anger, longing, lust, and love. Deep inside the pony Sombra now inhabited, she could taste the vast well of love inside. Love for Equestria, love for the friends he made, and love for a mare. Chrysalis almost giggled at this discovery. Sombra had willingly showed her a hole in his armor. A hole that she could use against him if she wanted to.

"That's enough!" Sombra demanded. Breaking the kiss and pulling her away from himself.

"Spoil sport." Chrysalis huffed. "Oh well. I got what I needed." She then began to walk away. "Goodbye, Mark. Till we meet again."

Sombra watched and waited until she left the cart before letting out a sigh. He didn't trust Queen Chrysalis, not fully anyway. And seeing her again like this meant that she was up to something, something big. No doubt plotting against Twilight and her friends. Whatever it was, he was going to have to keep a closer eye on things in the near future.








I awoke to find myself still seating on the seat. I was still on the train. but what happened? Last I remember was a girl sitting next to me, and.... I then remembered how she had those strange glowing eyes, and then I somehow blacked out. As I smacked my lips around, I noticed a strange taste inside my mouth. It was almost sweet, and my tongue felt funny. Almost like it was licking on something.

As I was trying to figure out that little mystery, I noticed the train was beginning to slow down. Damn, we're almost there. I thought to myself. How long was I out for? I decided to file all this in the 'worry about it later' pile in my mind, and just worry about the now. I needed to get my suitcase ready so I could leave the train. And then, I REALLY needed to use the restroom.


After the train arrived at the station, the first thing I did after exiting the train was go use the bathroom. After releaving myself, I then stood at the station while I tried to plot my next move. I didn't think this far ahead. Looking around the station, I saw the other ponies as they went on about their daily lives. Couples and families greeting each other, or ponies just getting off of a long business trip. I couldn't help but smile at that moment. It was nice just watching the simple joys in life.

"Right. Time to get this show on the road." I said to myself. I decided that once inside Ponyville, I would visit all the major places where my friends would be. I'd bet they would be pretty surprised to see me again. I'd have to think Princess Cadence for not writing to Twilight and ruining the surprise. Picking up my suitcase with my magic, I then began making my way into Ponyville to see my friends.

"I just hopes this goes better then I plan."



Ponyville sure hasn't changed much since I saw it last. It was still the peaceful little village that I saw when I first came to this world. Ponies coming and going, just living their peaceful lifes. Well, as peaceful as a world with magical creatures and talking ponies could be. I couldn't help but remember the funny things that went on while I was here. It was enough to make me laugh.

"Mark? Is that you?" 

I turned around to see that Lyra was standing there near one of the many market carts. No doubt buying something to make for lunch with Bon Bon.

"Hi Lyra. It's good to see you again." I said with a smile.

She dropped what she was doing, crossed the distance between us, and wrapped me into one of the tightest hugs I've ever been in.

"Mark! It IS you!" Lyra said, holding me close. "I missed you, you big oaf."

"Air..." I gasped. That got her to release her cobra like grip, giving me a chance to suck in some much needed air into my lungs. She stood right next to me, excitement was plastered all across her face.

"Where have you been, Mark? I haven't seen you in months."

"I've been away on duty. I took a position as a royal guard." I explained. "But how about you? How's things between you and Bon Bon been?" I asked, hoping to quickly change the topic.

"Things have been great." I answered with a smile. "She and I are closer then ever."

"That's good to hear." Last I heard about the two, they had grown into a couple. Which didn't bother me. I had no issues with a mare on mare relationship. "Say, Lyra. You wouldn't happen to know where the girls are right now, would you?"

Lyra put a hoof to her chin and gave it some thought. "Hmmm.... Twilight's at her castle, doing who knows what. Rarity's working at her shop. Pinkie's at Suger Cubed Corner. Applejack's at her farm. But I don't know where Fluttershy and Rainbow Dash are right now."

"Thanks." I nodded. "This is going to be perfect."

"Wait, you mean to tell me they don't know you've returned yet?"

"Nope." I replied with a wink. "I wanted it to be a surprise."

"You're one funny stallion." She chuckled, shaking her head.

"And on that note, I'm taking my leave. I want to go before the element of surprise is lost on me."

"Okay. Bye Mark. I'll see you later." Lyra waved.

After giving her a polite nod, I used my magic to pick up my suitcase and continued on my way. Now that I knew where the girls were, I could pick my targets out better. Dash and Fluttershy were wild cards, cause I didn't know where they were. But the others I could pick off at my leaser, so I decided the best thing to do was to visit all of them in order. Applejack was last, because she was the hardest for me to prepare for. But first on my list was Pinkie Pie.

She was the craziest out of the group, and would react the most unpredictable. So it was best to get her out of the way first. I soon made my way to the doors of Suger Cubed Corner, and prepared for whatever madness awaited me. Well, I guess it's now or never. I thought to myself as I stepped past the threshold.

Taking a moment to look around, I noticed the place was quite busy today. Several ponies were at the tables, enjoying their snacks. A few ponies stood in line, waiting for their orders. I decided to step in line and place my own order. As I did so, I noticed that Mrs Cake was working the counter today. Which would put Mr Cake in the kitchen preparing the treats. So Pinkie Pie was either helping in the kitchen, or was watching the foals. Either way, it meant she was close by.

"Next." Mrs Cake hollered. Meaning it was my turn to place an order. "What can I get you, sir?" She asked as I walked up to the counter.

"I'll have a chocolate milkshake with a blue berry muffin." I said. "Oh, and tell Pinkie a friend's here to see her."

"Sure. One moment please." She said, before walking through the kitchen door. I tried to make out what was being said, but was only able to hear the words "gray unicorn... Says he's a friend... looks handsome."

She soon came back out of the kitchen and took her place behind the counter. "Your order will be ready shortly." She said with a polite smile.

"Thank you, ma'am." I replied.

"Say, do I know you? You look familiar." Mrs Cake asked, trying to figure out who I was.

"You do. But last time you saw me, I was a blue earth pony without a cutie mark."

"Wait, then that means your..."

"MARK!!!" 

It took me a moment to understand what had happened, as it was too fast to follow. Pinkie was at the kitchen door, took one look at me, and rushed me. The Pink blurr tackled me to the ground, and was now sitting on top of me.

"Mark! I'm so glad to see you again. I've missed you so much." Pinkie said, looking down at me with gleaming eyes and a beaming smile.

"It's good to see you too, Pinkie. But do you think you could get off of me?"

"Oh. Sorry about that." She said, before getting off of me. The hyper mare waited until I was off the floor before pelting me with a hundred questions. "Where have you been? Did you get to see all across Equestria? Do you have any exciting stories to tell? Oh, do you have any wicked battle scars? Did you bring back any gifts? Why did it take you so long to come back?"

"Whoa, whoa, whoa. Slow down, Pinkie. I'll answer all your questions, but first, let's take a seat over to one of the tables." I suggested. Hoping I could calm her down a bit so I could explain myself.



"Wow. So you really have been all across Equestria." Pinkie said in amazment.

"More or less." I replied, slerping down the last of my milkshake.

I had spent the last half hour explaining everything that happened since I went to join the royal guard. How I took post at stations near the edge of Equestria, guarding against monsters and doing other boring guard stuff. How I met Fletfoot and Light Flake, and how we grew to be close friends. But I left out the bad stuff, like the real reason I left, Sombra's voice inside my head, or any of my other doubts. I ended the explanation by telling her how I was stationed to the Crystal Empire, and Princess Cadence had to almost order me to come back.

"But I don't get it. Why didn't you let us all know you was coming back to Ponyville?" Pinkie asked, giving me a curious look. "I could have thrown you one big old welcome home party."

"I know. But wanted my return to be a surprise." I stated.

"Oooh, that make sense." She said with a funny look. I just took it as the norm with her.

I let out an almost defeated sigh. "The truth is, Pinkie, I didn't tell you girls I was coming back because I was afraid to come back." I finally admitted.

"What? Why?"

"Because it's been over five months since I've seen you girls. I was afraid you'd all be mad at me, or never want to see me again."

"Mark, we're your friends." Pinkie said as she reached over the table and put her hoof on top of mine. "It doesn't matter how long your gone. We'll always be happy to see you again, silly billy. Besides, ever letter you wrote to Twilight, she would always tell us about it."

"Thanks Pinkie. I guess I just needed to hear that." I smiled.

"No problem. Now you said that you planned on seeing the other girls, but didn't know where Dash of Fluttershy was, right?"

"well, yeah."

"Then I'll go find them while you go visit Rarity and Twilight. That way, we can all meet up at Twilight's castle and all welcome you home in one big supertastic welcome greeting!" She finished with a cheerful smile.

"Uhhh... I don't think I..."

"Then it's settled. I'll see you later, Mark."

And just like that, she was out the door before I could even form a solid sentence. After taking a moment to process what had just happened, I couldn't help but chuckle at what just happened. Say what you will about her, but that mare always knew how to make the most out of any situation. And to be honest, I was glad she was helping me like she was. It meant I didn't have to face this all alone.

"Right. Next stop, Rarity's."



Ding-ding

"I'll be with you in just a second." Rarity called from across the room, not bothering to see who had entered the shop. "I'm busy putting the final touches on this dress."

"Too busy to greet an old friend?" I asked.

That got her attention. She stopped what she was doing and looked up to where I was. "Mark!" She exclaimed, before putting the dress on a table and rushing over to give me a hug. Thankfully, it was more gentle then Pinkie's.

"Mark, darling, it's so good to see you again." She said, releasing the hug.

"It's good to see you too." I replied. "I heard your business has really picked up."

"It has! I now have a branch in Canterlot and Manehatten." She boasted.

"That's good to hear." I said with a smile.

"So, did you just get back?" Rarity asked, noticing my suitcase on the floor behind me.

"Yep. I already ran into Pinkie Pie. She's going to gather everypony at Twilight's so I can get one big welcome." I explained.

"Well then, we better not keep the others waiting." She said as she made her way to the door.

"Wait a minute. What about your work?"

"It can wait. Besides, this is more important.

I grabbed my suitcase and we both exited shop. Rarity flipped the sign at the door to 'closed' before locking the door behind us.



"...And then, Maud got him to give her party canon back." Rarity finished, laughing at what had happened.

As we made our way to Twilight 's castle, she told me about past events. This one was about how Pinkie Pie, Maud Pie, and her went to Manehatten. Pinkie tried to find the perfect gift for her sister, while Rarity was looking for a new place to set up a shop. I was mostly quite, just enjoying the story as we walked. But we soon came to our destination.

"Here we are." Rarity said as we walked up to the front doors.

"Where are the guards?" I asked.

"oh, darling. Twilight doesn't like being treated like royalty, remember? She wants everypony in Ponyville to think of her as a normal pony." Rarity explained.

"Oh, that's right." Truth was, when I was staying in the castle when I first came here, she did have guards posted around the castle. But that was because Princess Celestia ordered them there, because they were worried about my safety. Now it seemed that things have returned to normal.

Rarity gave the door a quick knock, but I didn't see the point. Twilight knew who we were, and I'm sure we was welcome in. But I guess it was better to be polite. There was the faint sound of hooves on the other side, followed by a muffled "I'll get it." When the door opened, a pony I've never seen before greeted us. She was a pink mare, with a pretty purple mane that had a color streak to it.

"Oh, hi Rarity. What brings you here today?" She asked, holding open the door so we both could pass through. "And who's your friend here?"

"That's what I wanted to see Twilight about." Rarity said. "Starlight Glimmer, I'd like you to meet our friend, Mark."

"Wait. You're Mark? The one that defeated Sombra and saved Canterlot?" She asked.

"Well, more like I won by the skin of my teeth. But yeah, that's me." I chuckled as I rubbed the back of my head.

"Sorry. Just I heard alot about you, is all." Starlight said, holding a hoof out to shake.

"I've heard things about you as well." I replied. Shaking her hoof.

"All good things, I hope." She asked with a nervous chuckle.

"Only that you're very talented with magic. No wonder Twilight decided to make you her apprentice."

"Oh, uhh, thank you." She replied. Seeming to calm down a bit.

Just then, Twilight and Spike walked into the main hall where we were standing. It looked like they just came from the library, no doubt doing more research on something. That was just like Twilight. They took one look at us and froze in their tracks. I could tell by their expressions that they were surprised to see me.

"Mark!" Spike was the first to react. Running up to me and giving me a huge hug. Twilight just calmly walked up to us, a warm smile glued on her face.

"Cadence's letter said that you on your way to Ponyville today , but I thought I'd have more time to prepare." She stated.

"Twilight, my dear, you mean you knew?" Rarity asked.

"Aww man. And I told her not to write I was coming." I explained.

"It's okay." Twilight giggled. "I didn't tell Pinkie. And that was your biggest worry if I remember right."

"Yeah, but..."

"So where have you been all this time?" Starlight asked.

"Mark here has been on duty as a royal guard all this time." Rarity answered.

"Yeah, I get that. But why hasn't he returned until now?" Starlight was getting to the heart of that matter. Damn her and her smart observation. "Usually, guards are given leave much sooner then now. It's been months, right?"

"Well, I can explain that." I said.

"And I'd like ta hear that explanation, sugarcube."

And then I froze in place.

Pinkie pie had walked through the main doors with Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, and Applejack. My eyes were drawn straight to AJ, as my head started to swim. I had so much I wanted to say to her, but I didn't know how to begin. How I missed her, how I loved her, and how I was sorry I left the way I did. The other girls stayed back as Applejack walked up to me, never taking her eyes off of mine.

SMACK

My cheek burned as her hoof slapped me with thunderous sound. As I recovered from the hit, I saw her face had a stern expression on it. But her eyes began to water, and next thing I knew I was sweeped into a tight embrace. Tears flowed freely from her cheeks, and in my confused state all I could was hug her back.

"Ya stupid, stupid stallion. Don't ya dare leave me like that ever again." She cried into my withers.

"I'm so sorry, Applejack." I softy replied.

As I looked up, I saw the girls smiling at us and giving me looks of approval. In that moment, all the weight on back, the guilt I felt in the past few months melted away. And I knew that everything was going to be okay. Sure, I had some crow to eat, and apologizing to do, but I didn't care.

I was just glad to be home. 
> Chapter 3: Core of the matter
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        His dark mist form waited outside the shield that the princess had casted, as the weather outside raged around him. The Crystal Empire had finally reappeared in Equestria after a thousand years, and this royal couple had the gaul to try and rule it. But he was King Sombra, the true ruler of the Crystal Empire, and he would have his rightful throne back. It was just a matter of time. The ponies still didn't know where the crystal heart was, and the shield the princess had around the empire was begin to weaver. There was also the small piece of his horn that chipped off and made its way in, allowing more of his dark crystals to spead from inside.

But time was not on his side, as a purple unicorn mare and a baby dragon was getting closer to finding the crystal heart. If he didn't find away to stop her soon, then these ponies would win. And he simply could not allow that to happen. 

But then, all the pieces fell into place. The princess was too weak to keep the shield around the empire anymore, so it finally vanished. The mare and dragon had found the crystal heart, but she activitated the trap he had put there ages ago, and was now surrounded by his dark crystals. Now was the time to act. His mist form crossed the threshold, as he made his way to the crystal heart. He would take back the crystal heart, punish these intruders in his kingdom, and rule once again.

The purple mare threw the heart over to the baby dragon, who was outside of the trap he had placed. But it didn't matter, he was no match for Sombra's dark magic. As pillar after pillar of dark crystals popped up around the dragon, he made his way closer to him. He was closer now, and could almost taste the sweat victory that was almost near.

And then everything went wrong.

The dragon fell from one of the pillars that was high in the air, dropping the crystal heart from his claws. But before Sombra could take it for his own, the princess soared through the air and took it from him. She land on the ground, wings spread out, surrounded by the crystal ponies. Those commoners, his slaves, bowed before her like she was their ruler. Then the magic inside the crystal heart poured out, and a explosion of it's magic spread out across the whole kingdom.

The wave reached Sombra before he could react. The bright light shined around him as the magic burned his whole body. All he could do was scream as the magic began to rip apart his body.







I woke with a scream.

"Not again." I muttered to myself as sat up in the bed. Sweat pouring from my face.

I had another dream about Sombra's past. The memories were so clear, so vivid, it was like I had really lived it. And in a sad way, I really did. As much as I didn't want to face it, Sombra was now a part of me. All of his past memories were so mixed into mine, that I was starting forget what my life as a human was really like. I tried to remember my parents back on earth, but all I could picture was Sombra's. My school life was a mix of highschool and magic school, with everyone's image slowly becoming ponies.

The more I thought about it, the more I was beginning to lose my mind. Remembering all the good times I had since I came to Equestria helped a little, but then they brought new fears to the surface. I was afraid that Sombra would one day take over, and that he would hurt my friends. I couldn't let him do that to them. Not my Applejack.

As I pondered more about this subject, I decided to get up and make my way to the shower. I was staying in Twilight's castle again, since I really had no other place to go. I asked Twilight if it would be okay with me staying here, since Starlight Glimmer was already living with her. But Twilight said they had plenty of spare rooms and didn't mind at all.

I thought about how helpful her and the girls had been to me, and I couldn't help but take comfort in it. I let out a huge sigh and tried to let all my worrying thoughts go. I was worrying too much about everything. The girls would help me if anything happened, plus I had much better control of my magic since I did months ago. With that thought, I opened the door to the bathroom hoping a nice hot shower would make me feel better.

What I saw made me froze in shock.

Starlight Glimmer was already inside the shower/tub, soaking in a bubble bath. We both stared at each other in total shock for about a few seconds, before she decided to act first. "Get OUT!!" She screamed before throwing a soap bottle straight at my head, hitting me right between the eyes. She then used her magic to throw me into the hall before slaming the door behind me.






"Look, I said was sorry, okay?" I tried to explain myself.

After the little accident, I decided to skip the shower and just make breakfast. As I was finishing making some toast and juice, Starlight walked into the kitchen. As she made herself some coffee, she gave me the death stare. A look that most girls gave guys when they were angry at them. I had seen that look more then a few times to know what it was.

"Can we just pretend it didn't happened?" I pleaded.

"You should have knocked." She said in a bitter tone.

"Yeah? Well you should have locked the door." I stated dryly.

She mumbled something under her breathe, but I didn't hear it. I just snorted and returned my attention to my food. I didn't have time for this shit. It was too early, and I had other, important things on my mind.

"Good morning, guys." Twilight greeted us as she and Spike walked into the kitchen.

"Good morning, Twilight." Starlight replied. 

I took the last few bites of my toast and downed my drink. "Well, I gotta go." I said, walking away from the table.

"You're leaving so soon?" Twilight ask, giving me an confused look.

"Yep. I told Applejack I'd help her out of the farm today, and I don't want to be late."

"Oh, well have fun." Twilight smiled at me.

I walked over to the door before I stopped. A thought crossed my mind, and it was too good of an opportunity not to pass up. I turned to face Starlight, before giving her a sly look. "By the way, you looked cute with your little rubber ducky." I said before walking out of the kitchen.

"What was that about?" Twilight asked.

"N... Nothing ." Starlight nervously said.

"You have a rubber ducky?" Spike asked.

Ha ha. Revenge.







I made my way to Sweet Apple Acres, I took the time to enjoy the walk and admire the day. It was another peaceful day in Ponyville, and I was enjoying every second of it. Yesterday, as I explained where I had been and what I been doing in the past months, the girls told me about some of the things that happened to them. But as things were wrapping up, Applejack made me promise that I'd come down to the farm and help her with some of yard work. I agreed, as I felt it would be the perfect way to make things up to her, and spend time with her as well.

I soon came to the gate of the farm, and gave a quick look at my surroundings. Off in the field, Big Mac was tending to the crops. Further in, I spotted Apple Bloom playing with Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. It was hard to spot this far away, but I saw that they finally got their cutie marks. Good for them. I thought to myself. Now they can move on with their lifes and just enjoy their youth.

I decided to walk up to Big Mac and say hi. That, and test the waters. So to speak.

"Hi Big Mac. Nice day today."

"Eeeyup." He replied.

"Is Applejack nearby?"

"Eeeyup."

"Thanks." I said before I started to walk away. But then I was surprised when he continued talking.

"I'd be careful if I was you." He said, causing me to stop and look at him. "AJ hasn't been riled up in long time. She may take it out on ya for awhile."

"I was afraid of that." I replied, looking at the ground in defeat.

"But I wouldn't worry. She'll calm down after she's had a chance ta cool down." He stated.

"Thanks, Big Mac." 

"One more thing. If you ever break my little sister's heart again, I'll break your legs." He calmy said as he starred me down.

I gulped. Hard.

"There ya are." Applejack said as she walked up to us. "Ya're just in time ta help feed the critters."

Before I could react to anything, she grabbed me by the hoof and started leading me towards the animal pens. I took one last quick look behind me, and saw Big Mac still had his eyes on me. He gave me a hard look that I couldn't tell it meant, 'you better be good to her' or 'lay your hooves on her and I'll snap your neck'. Either way, I was more then a little nervous. I may have had the spirit of Sombra inside of me, but nothing was scarier then a pissed off protective older brother.


"Come on, Mark. Put some backbone into it. Time's wasting." Applejack said as she watched me carry a cart full of apples.

For the last few hours, Applejack had been working me like a dog. First, she had me clean the pigs feed troth, which ended in me in getting all muddy. At least I was hoping it was mud. Then she had we carting barrels of apples into the barn for storage. At least that wasn't too hard. She then had me walking around the apple fields picking up all the rotten apples on the ground. That ended in me being swarmed by a bunch of fruit bats, which at least earned a chuckle from Applejack. And now I was hauling around a cart as she went around apple bucking.

"Are we about done yet?" I moaned. It was now the afternoon and I was tired.

"Just a few more trees and then we can take a break." She said, perfectly bucking the apples from the trees.

"Why are we doing this?"

"Now come on, Mark. Quit your belly aching. We have have ta collect the rest of these apples ta finish out the season." She replied. Sounding a little upset at my complaining.

"That's not what I meant. I mean, why did you have me do all this? Is this some form of punishment?"

She didn't say anything after that, but I knew I had hit the nail on the head. She was still upset at me because of how I left her. I couldn't blame her. She had a right to still be made at me. But at least she was still seeing me, so that at least gave me hope of repairing our relationship. Even if she was literally making me work for it.

"There. That should be the last of them." AJ said as took the last bucket full of apples and put it in the cart behind me.

I grunted as more weight was added in, and I shifted myself to get more comfortable. This cart was heavy, and I wasn't used to hauling things around by my back like everypony else was. But the promise of us being done spur me on.

"Whoo howdy! Sugar cube, I hate ta tell you this, but you smell worse then the dickens." She stated.

Geez, you think? I thought to myself. No shower + hard work = sweaty smelly stallion.

"Yeah. I kinda wasn't able to take my shower this morning. So..."

"Well, come on. We'll put everything up, and then you can use our shower." She said as we started making our way back to the farm.

"Thanks." I replied, trying to keep up with her as I pulled the full cart behind me.

As we walked, we stayed mostly silent. I didn't know what she was thinking, but I knew there was still something eating at her. I knew that I had to say something to get the ball rolling again. To fix the cracks in our relationship and friendship. But I wasn't sure how to start. Please, don't let me put my foot in my mouth.

"Applejack. I'm sorry."

"I know." She calmy replied, not even bothering to look back.

"Look, I just want you to know that you wasn't the reason I left. It was me." That caused her to stop. "I was afraid, AJ. After defeating Sombra, everything about me and my life changed. My memories, my looks, even the type of pony I was, all changed to be more like Sombra. And I was afraid that I was becoming too much like him."

She turn to face me, and I saw that those beautiful emerald eyes were full of concern.

"So that's why I left to join the guard. I thought that if I was out of the picture, then there would be no risk of something happening to you and the other girls." I finished.

"Ya stupid fool. Ya didn't have ta face all those worries alone. We could have faced them together." 

"I see that now. I still have many of same worries that I did before. But at least something good came out of my time away. I made a few friends and even got better with magic and combat." I smiled.

"Well, I'm just glad your back." AJ said, continuing our walk towards the barn.

"Me too."






After getting the fresh apples stored away, and putting the cart back in it's place, we made our way inside the house. Granny Smith was inside the kitchen, hard at work on supper. Applejack told Granny that I was using their shower, and then pushed me up upstairs before the the old mare could say anything. For a little old mare, Granny Smith sure knew how to push AJ's buttons. After handing me a spare towel, she left me so I could take my shower. It felt amazingly good to wash the stress from my muscles and feel clean again.

With the shower finished, I cleaned the mess I made in the bathroom before making my way down stairs. I then saw that the Apple family was heading to the kitchen to start their dinner. Granny saw me just standing there in the living room and waved for me to join them.

"Don't just stand there. Come on over and get yourself something to eat." She yelled to me.

"I couldn't. I wouldn't want to be a hassle." I called back.

"Don't be silly, youngin. We made pleaty for everypony. Come on over and join us." She retorted.

I couldn't turn down such a kind offer, plus, after all that work I was pretty hunger. So I decided to take them up on their hospitality. "Sure." I said, before walking into the kitchen and joining them at the table. It was a delicious looking meal, though most of it was apple based. Like the apple pie or the apple fritters. But it was all still tasty.

"So Mark, AJ says that ya've been away on duty as a royal guard. Is that right?" Granny asked.

"Yes, ma'am. I was stastioned at different posted all across Equestria." I answered.

"Cool. I bet ya got ta see a lot of amazing places." Apple Bloom said.

"I did. From the Macintosh hills, to the Hayseed Swamps, and even the Frozen North."

"Sounds like ya've been all over the place." Granny stated.

"Did anything happen while ya was there?" Apple Bloom asked, eyes full of wonder. 

"I won't lie. Me and my unit have run into our share of problems while at our posts." I said.

"Like what?"

"Like the time we ran into a group of bandits while escorting a nobel to Baltimare. Or the hydra that attacked out post in the swamps. And then there was the snow creatures we fought off while guarding the trade route between the Crystal Empire and Yakyakistan." I explained. "Nothing too life threating, but it did keep me on tips of my hooves."

As I looked around the table, I noticed I was getting quite a few different looks from my little story. Ganny Smith was giving me a warm smile, happy to hear my tale. Apple Bloom was looking at me in awe and wonder, which wasn't much of a surprise there. Big Mac's expression was calm, but as long as he wasn't trying to break my bones, I was happy with that. And then there was Applejack. Her's was a mix between interest, disappointment and something else that I couldn't pin down. It was a look not too unlike that eyebrow look Dwayne 'The Rock' would do in wrestling.

"So I take it that there were moments ya all didn't like being on duty?" AJ asked, keeping her gaze on me.

"Well, of course." I said as I rolled my eyes at the examples. "That royal armor was uncomfortable for one thing. I only really wore it when I had to." Which was all the time. "I hated how there would be long weeks were nothing would happen, so I had to do nothing but stand around all day. I hated the fact that I couldn't enjoy the little moments, like us at this dinner. And I regret leaving in the first place. Because sadly, being a guard is not my calling in life."

"Then why did ya leave?" Big Mac surprised everypony by asking.

"Come on, Big Mac. He doesn't have ta answer if he doesn't want ta." AJ defended.

"No, no. It's okay. I don't mind answering that." I said, waving a hoof up dismissively. "Truth is, I was afraid and needed some time alone to think things over for myself. Fight my own personal demons, if you will. But facing things alone wasn't the right thing to do, nor was pushing my loved ones away. I see that now."

That earned approving smiles from everypony across the dinner table. The rest of the meal consisted of idol small talk, such as how our day went to happy memories. All in all, it was a heart warming meal that I enjoyed. As the Apple family treated me like one of their own.






After dinner, Applejack and me walked into the fields to spend some alone time. It was late in the evening now, as Celestia's sun was beginning to set. The sun was setting past the apple trees and behind the hills was beautiful. And had it been any other moment, it would've been the perfect romantic scene. But as things stood right now, I thought it best to not push my luck with Applejack. At least she wasn't mad at me.

So we just sat there under an apple tree, enjoying the view and each other's company.

"It's a pretty sunset." AJ was the fisrt to break the silence.

"Yeah."

I then felt her hoof resting on top of mine. I dared to glance over, and found she was looking at me with a cute little smile. My heart skipped a beat. At that moment, Applejack was the most beautiful mare I had ever seen. All I could do was stare into those emerald eyes.

"I'm sorry I was a little upset with ya, Mark. I had no idea that what ya've been going through." AJ said.

"It okay. I'm the one the one who should be sorry. I didn't trust you girls, and pushed you away."

"So is really true what ya said earlier? That your memories are becoming more like Sombra's?"

I nodded yes. "When I try to remember my past, all I can picture are moments in Sombra's life. I've even had nightmares of taking over the Crystal Empire or by being defeated by you guys."

"That doesn't sound good. I think ya should tell Twilight and the other princesses about that." AJ stated.

"I know. I've just been working up the courage to do that. I mean, it took a nudge from Princess Cadence to come back here and face my mistakes. I'm not a strong pony, Applejack." I sighed in defeat.

Then, before I knew it, she leaned in and kissed me. It was a long, slow kiss, that was simple but sweet. She pulled away after a few seconds later, but it was enough to smell her sweet scent. Cinnamon.

"You're stronger then you know, Mark." She said as she rested her head on my withers.

We said nothing else as we enjoyed the rest of the sunset. A huge smile was on my face. For the first time in months, I wasn't afraid of the unknown. I wasn't worried that Sombra was inside my head. In that moment, I was happy just being there with Applejack. And I knew that whatever problems I would face in the future, I knew I didn't have to face them alone.






On the back porch, Granny Smith and Big Mac watch the young couple spending time together.

"She sure is happy ta him again, isn't she?" Ganny questioned with a smirk.

"Eeeyep." Big Mac replied.

"It's so nice to see that she's finally found somepony."

"Eeyep." 
> Chapter 4: Reflections
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

              Today was turning out better then I hoped it would. For starters, I was able to take my shower in a different bathroom of the castle, so I didn't have to worry about walking in on either Twilight or Starlight. Then, after breakfast was over, I went to the library to kill a few hours reading a Daring Do book. Then after that, I decided to walk around Ponyville and just enjoy the day. That's when I ran into Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. Now I was talking with them, as Dash wanted to hear all about the 'cool' parts of my time as a royal guard.

Truth was, I was truly happy. In just a few days, I had returned to Ponyville, faced my fears and told my friends why I left in the first place. Applejack and I made up, and now our relationship was doing better then it ever had before. I still couldn't believe that I had a girlfriend now. Just a year ago, I was just an average human loser, who had no real goal in life. But now, in Equestria, I was a unicorn stallion with a beautiful earth pony mare and was known as a hero.

My life had really changed. I had really changed.

"No way, that's nothing." Dash boasted, showing me a small scar on one of her legs. "This is from the time I crashed into the Everfree and had to escape from a pack of tiberwolfs."

"Oh yeah?" I turned to my side, showing them a burn scar on my belly. "This was from the time I was hit by friendly fire when me and my unit took on a snow monster."

What started out as my telling Dash and Fluttershy about my experiences as a guard, quickly turned into a contest over who had the better battle scars. She showed everything from her fights, to her flight crashes, to even simple childhood scars she had.

"Umm, guys? I don't really think this matters. Does it?" Fluttershy softly asked.

"Well check this out." Dash then pointed to one of wings, which had a barely visible scar at it's base. "This is from the first time I ever tried to fly. Jumped off the couch and broke my wing. Gave my folks a real heart attack."

"Ha. I can top that. This little beauty was when as a kid, my appendix almost rupture and I had to have surgery." I pointed to the small line scar that was on the right side of my belly.

"Oh my that must have been horrible." Fluttershy said looking at the scar with concern.

"It wasn't that bad." I chuckled. "The worst part was trying to move around after the surgery. I was sore for a month."

Dash also gave the scar a quick look, showed both part wonder and part sympathy. When she didn't say anything for a few moments I knew that I had won that little game. Which was good because I had no intention of showing her anything else on my body. Some scars and things are better left quiet about.

"Say, I'm getting pretty hungry." I stated, hoping to change subjects and move on.  "What do you say we all go grab a bite to eat. It was then the line 'eat to bite' from the Tom Hanks movie The terminal popped into my head.

"Sounds good. But your buying." Dash smiled.

"What? Why?" I asked.

"Because your the gentlecolt here, and that's what they are suppose to do for mares." She stated. "Besides you must have quite a few bits saved up from your time working for the royal guard."

"That doesn't mean I'm loaded." I protested. "Most of my savings is in the bank. I don't walk around with a huge money sack on me at all times."

"Umm, if it's too much trouble, I could pay for the meal." Fluttershy stated.

"It's okay Shy, I can pay for my meal. I was just messing around with Mark." Dash reassured her.

"More like you were trying to get a free meal from me."

"I was not!"

That caused Fluttershy and me to bust out laughing, while Dash huffed and crossed her front legs. And so, we made our way to a nearby diner, enjoying the day and each others company.




 



Meanwhile, in the market place of Ponyville, Twilight Sparkle was standing there waiting calming. Twilight had went with Spike and Starlight to pick up a few supplies they would need in the castle. She was waiting outside near the stalls while they went into one of the local stores. She was proud to see that her faithful assistant and new student went were getting along so well. They showed real promise when they worked together during the Crystalling incident that happened a while back. It was at that moment, Applejack had showed up.

"Howdy Twilight." Applejack greeted as she walked up to her. "Do ya have a moment ta talk?"

"Of course, AJ. What can I do for you?"

"I need ta talk with ya bout Mark." AJ said, shifting her hooves as she looked towards the ground.

"Mark? Why? Is something wrong? Did something happened?" Twilight asked, concern that Mark was in trouble.

"No, Nothing's happened. But it's still important." AJ said. "Ya see... The thing is... Well..."

"Come on, AJ. Tell me what it is. I promise that whatever it is, we'll work things out together." Twilight explained. Hoping that Applejack and Mark hadn't broken up or anything.

Applejack took a moment to draw in a deep breathe before releasing a long sigh, hoping it would ready her for this. She didn't like telling ponies about others promise, but she knew this was too important to keep quiet about. Mark was her coltfriend, and see cared for him deeply. But she also knew he wouldn't talk about this willing, so it was up to her to make sure he got the help he needed.

"Okay. So remember how Mark said that the whole reason he left was because he was afraid, and wanted time to think things over?" She asked.

"Yes I do." Twilight nodded. "He said it was because of how he looked more like Sombra."

"Yeah. But that wasn't the whole truth. See, the thing is, after the fight at the Gala, he said that some of his memories are mixing with Sombra's. And that every now and then he can hear him in his head, telling to do things."

"And Mark told you all this?" Twilight questioned, surprised by what she just heard.

Applejack nodded. "He sure did, sugar cube. When he was at the farm yesterday, he told me the real reason he left and has been gone all this time. He was afraid he might change and hurt us."

"But I don't understand. Why hasn't he told me or the other princesses about this?"

"Because he was afraid of what they may think." AJ explained. "He was afraid that they might view him as a monster."

"I guess I understand." Twilight took a moment to ponder. "This is something personal, and he has trusted you to tell you about this. So why are telling me all this? Did he tell you to keep it a secret?"

"Well, kinda..." AJ paused. "But I had to tell ya about it, Twi. He's too stubborn to ask for help and i'm afraid this may turn into a bigger problem if left unchecked."

Twilight looked at her friend for a moment. While she thought it funny that Applejack was calling Mark stubborn, a moment of the pot calling the kettle black, she was impressed none the less. She really cared for Mark.

"Please, Twi. Please tell me that ya'll talk with him later about this."

"Don't worry, AJ. I'll have a talk with him about it when he get back to the castle. Maybe I could even have Princess Luna check his dreams and see if everything is okay."

"Thanks Twi." Applejack said as she gave her friend a quick hug. "I knew I could count on ya."

"No problem, AJ. We're friends after all." Twilight smile.

"Darn right we are. Well, I got ta get back ta the farm. Bye Twilight. Oh yeah, don't forget ta tell everypony that we're having a little shindig in a few days to celebrate our harvest."

"Will do. See you later, Applejack." Twilight waved goodbye to Applejack, just as Spike and Starlight walked out of the store. They were carrying a few bags, and it looked like they got everything they needed.

"We're done, Twilight." Spike announced.

"We would have been finished sooner, if a certain dragon didn't take so long looking at comics." Starlight said dryly.

"Hey, it was a annual issue of Mare Do Well."

Ignoring their banter, Twilight instead started thinking about what Applejack had told her. If Mark was hearing Sombra inside his head, then perhaps part of his spirit was still inside him. And if their memories were starting to fuse together, then maybe it was a sign Sombra was trying to take him over. Twilight knew she had to get to the bottom of this.

"Right! Come on guys, let's go home. We got work to do."







Spending time with my friends was great. Rainbow Dash and I had a blast talking about Daring Do as we ate lunch, and I even learned that she was a real pony. Who would have thought. Fluttershy talked about her experiences with Discord and the different animals she's helped while I was gone. Not that I minded, because I found it interesting to hear how different some creatures behaved compaired to that on Earth. Not to mention she was so damn cute and I could literary have that sweet voice sing me to sleep each night. Oh shit, did I think that just now? Note to self, NEVER tell Applejack what you just thought about her friend, ever!

Anyway, after we finished our meal we just walked around for awhile longer, talking and having a great time. But then we noticed it was getting late in the day, so we decided to call it a day and head on home. After saying our goodbyes, we parted ways and I slowly begun to make my way back to the castle with a big stupid smile on my face. I needed a good day like today. Sometimes, with everything that has happened in my life it was easy to forget that I had made some great friends. Sure, they were candy colored ponies, but to be honest they were the best things that happened in my life. 

After several of moments of walking, I soon arrived to the Castle just before the sun started to set for the day. Slipping inside as quietly as I could, I decided to make my way to my room so I could unwind and relax for the day. Maybe continue reading that erotic romance book I had found while looking through the library. I wonder if Twilight knew she had this? It was during that trail of thought that Spike walked into the hall.

"Mark, there you are. We was starting to wonder where you were." Spike exclaimed.

"Sorry about that. Me and the others were having such a good time that we sort of lost track of time." I explained.

"That's cool, I understand." Spike said with smile. "Oh yeah, Twilight said she wanted to see you."

"What about?"

"I don't know. She's been acting strange all afternoon." Spike said, with a puzzled look. "She's in the study room, reading old books and writing notes."

"Thanks, Spike. I'll go see what's up." I told him before making my way there. As I turned throught a few hallways, I pondered over what this could be about. I hope nothing bad has happened. I thought to myself. That's just what I need. The other boot to come down just as I was just starting to get my life back on track.

After a few more turns, I soon arrived to the room labeled 'Study Room'. Apparently, when Starlight moved in, she could find her way around the castle. Just like I couldn't when I first got here. But, unlike me, she soon started putting little labels near certain rooms to remind herself were things were. Smart move, Starlight. I opened the door and walked inside, finding Twilight sitting at a table reading a huge old book I had never seen before.

Twilight turned around as soon she heard the door close, having a deep expression of her lost in thought. But as soon as she saw it me, her face quickly took a gentle tone as she gave me a warm smile.

"Mark, so glad to see again. I was hoping to get a chance to speak with you this evening." She said as she walked up a little closer to me.

"Yeah. Spike said you wanted to see me. So what is it?"

She gave a me a small nod before taking a quick calming breathe. Almost like she was preparing herself for something.

"Mark, I'm just going to get right to the point. Applejack told me what's been going on with you."

"........"

"She told me how about your memories merging with some of his and how you've sometimes hear him in your head."

I stood there for a long moment. Not saying anything as I just stared at nothing. It was like somepony decided to stop the world stop spinning. Without having to say a word, I knew how she had learned all of that.

"Applejack." It wasn't a question as much as a statement.

"Yes. But please don't be angry at her, she was just trying to help." Twilight quickly explained, hoping to quell some of my anger at this discovery. "She's worried that something might be wrong and wanted to make sure you're okay.

"I'm not angry." I calmly replied. Truth be told, I was more shocked then I was anything. I knew Applejack and the other girls were close, so them asking each other for help came as no surprise. Still, I couldn't help but feel a little frustration.

"So you're not upset?" Twilight asked, giving me a questioning look.

"No, not really. I know you guys are just trying to help." I sighed. "So what do you think is happening to me? Do you think that spell you and the other princesses did messed up or something?"

"I'm not sure. The spell we used to banish Sombra from your body was an ancient, only know to the princesses and very few gifted unicorns." She explained. "For the spell to go wrong, a number of factors would have to be considered. But I don't think the spell failed."

"Why do you say that?"

"Because if it did, you wouldn't be you right now. Sombra would have taken you over and you would cease to exist."

"Point taken." I said with a gulp. Not liking the idea of that possibility.

"But don't worry. I sent word to Princess Celestia, and asked for Princess Luna to check your dreams tonight to see if anything is wrong." Twilight stated. "You can be surprised what you can learn in somepony else's dream."

"What?"

"Don't worry Mark, it won't hurt."

"It's not that. Just I don't like the idea of somepony walking around inside my head." The thought of the princess seeing all the personal things inside my head was beginning to make my face feel flushed.

"Why not? She's done it before."

"That was different. I was near death and had an evil spirit trying to possess me." I exclaimed. "This time, she'll be able to see the personal things in my dreams."

"It won't be tha..."

"She could see all the embarrassing dreams I had of me living out the horror that was highschool!"

"Don't worry so much about it. I'm sure Luna will be very careful to avoid running into anything that would be too embarrassing for you." She reassured. "Besides, highschool wasn't that bad. I remember in Canterlot High, the only embarrassing thing I had happen was post of me trying to use the internet for the first time."

"What?"

Twilight quickly put a hoof to her mouth. She expression told volumes of how much she had over said.

"Twilight, how do you know anything about computers, posts or the internet?"

"Umm... Well, you see... There has been a few times when I've entered into a world like this one, but everypony was human and..."

"What?!"

"You see, it's a magic mirror that's a gateway into another world. But it can only be opened every thirty...."

"WHAT?!! You mean to tell me there's been a way for me to return home all this time, and you didn't tell me?" I almost screamed at her.

"I'm not sure. That world could be very different from the one you know, and there was the risk that you could have been stuck there. We didn't want to take that chance."

"What gives you the right to decide my fate?" I slammed a hoof down hard into the floor. I could feel my horn light up as magic flowed through me. "I'm ALREADY stuck in a world I don't know about. If there was a chance that the mirror could lead to me home, don't you think I would have tried? Don't you think I'd want to see my family again?"

"I know you would. But please, Mark, try to understand. We was only trying to help you." She pleaded.

"Help? Help?! I think I've had enough of your 'help' for one lifetime." I said as I turned back towards the door.

"Mark, please."

But I didn't bother to look at her. I just opened the door walked out of the room and slammed the door.


> Chapter 5: Reflections part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

               Princess Luna sat on her bed as began to get comfortable. Now that her sister's sun had set and her glorious moon was out, it was time to perpare for her nighty duties. But tonight, she had a special case, as she would use her dreamscaping powers on one pony specifically. Twilight had sent a letter to Celestia earlier today, explaining how Mark said he was remembering parts of Sombra's past over his own. What was more disturbing, was that he could hear Sombra inside his head. Celestia and Luna had thought they had rid Mark of Sombra's curse, so upon hearing hearing this news it was decided that Luna would learn what she could through his dreams.

Closing her eyes, Luna began channelling her powers through her horn. A familiar thread of magic exited her horn and began travelling into the night sky. It was her link into the dream realm, and allowed her to connect to any pony dreams she wished to. She could even spread the thread into many, allowing her to even connect many ponies into the same dream. But she didn't have to do that little number since all of Ponyville helped her conquer her own demons not that long ago. Scanning the dreamscape, she soon found the pony she was looking for, and entered into his dreams with the ease of simply opening a door and entering.

The world around her warped around her as it began to take shape, matching with whatever was in Mark's mind. As everything began to clear, she found herself inside what looked like the middle of Sweet Apple Acres. Large apple trees were all around her, as well as a clear stretch of field off to the side. Nothing was in the plain field except for what looked like a lone sunflower sticking out in the middle. It was almost as tall as a young filly, as it's petals appeared bright with it's steam strong and healthy. With Mark nowhere around and nothing else was in view except the apple trees, Luna decided to make her way to it.

As Luna walked onto the field, the flower in the middle began to stir, moving it's steam side to side and. Luna watched in complete amazement as black little eyes popped open at it's base, as it began to look around it's surroundings. It stopped as it spotted Luna standing not far from it, and froze it's gaze on her. She couldn't help but feel a little creeped out as a strange grin spread across it's now face.

"Greetings Princess Luna. I bid you welcome." It spoke.

Lune stood perplexed for a moment, unsure how to proceed with these strange encounter.

"Yes... Well, thank you. Might I ask who you are?"

"Me? I'm Flowey." The flower happily answered. "I live here in this part of Mark's dreams."

"Tell me, little one, do you know where Mark is?" Luna asked.

"Uh huh, he's just inside that door." Flowey nodded.

"Door? What door? There's nothing...." Luna paused as she looked up only to see a door just behind the flower. "Oh."

"I have to warn you, not everything is as it appears in there." Flowey said as Luna walked up to the door.

"What does that mean?" She turned to give the flower a curious look.

"You'll see soon enough." Flowey smiled a big toothy grin.

She stood there for a moment, wondering what to make of all this. Normally when she entered somepony's dream, she would find them almost imeddiately and began to help them work out their problems. But the fact that see hadn't seen Mark yet, and was greeted by this strange plant did not sit well with her. Something was indeed wrong here, and she had no choice now but to push forward.

Taking hold of the door handle with her magic, she quickly flung the door opened. Just as she about to walk through the door, she turned to give one last look at the flower. It was still watching her as it continued to give her an almost sinister grim. "Good luck. You'll need it." It said to her. Luna just ignored it as she step through the door frame, the door closing behind her seconds later.

The princess of the night was stunned by where she was next. It was a long straight hallway with nothing but mirrors. Big circled frame mirrors littered the hallway on both sides of the hall, with the largest on at the end of the hallway. Each mirror was well spread apart, with every mirror switching sides from left to right as they went down the hall. As Luna peeked into one, she saw that inside was the moment Mark was a newborn foal. These are his past memories!

Luna realized she was deep inside Mark's dream core, where memories and dreams are stored and keeped. She had hardly ever been this deep inside a pony's mind before, as the only time she did was to help a poor little filly who was lost inside a coma. She started to wonder why the flower lead her here, but then remembered that her mission was to look deep inside Mark's mind to see if something was wrong. So she decided that the best step was to move on and study the mirrors. So she began to slowly walk the hallway, taking the time to look at each mirror on both sides.

The first few mirrors were a little foggy, as they contained memories of his time growing up from a foal to a young colt. That didn't surprised her, as the deeper you look back on the past, the harder it was to remember it. But what surprised her was that he wasn't a human in these memories, but a blue earth pony, which showed signs that maybe his mind was effected from his time in Equestria after all. As she went further down, she began to notice differences between the events in each mirror. From him as a colt to him growing up as a young stallion, some mirrors showed him as a blue earth pony going to a school in an unknown city, while others showed him as a gray unicorn being raised in the Crystal Empire.

These are Sombra's memories. Luna thought, realizing the full horror of what this meant. His mind IS merging with that damn tyrant! She continued walking, hoping to find the core of the problem and help Mark.

Continuing down the hall, the events in the mirrors played out as she thought they would. While some showed a young Mark as a blue earth pony growing up in a peaceful, if not dull life, others showed Sombra as he began his magic studies. Then, the ones with Mark stopped as Sombra's continued to play out, showing how he fell to the dark side and became the evil king that Luna hated so much. She stopped, watching the event where one night, he while studing dark magic, he tried to cast a powerful spell to summon something from another reality plane. She watched in horror as a creature she had only heard about in legends appeared.

"An umbrum!" Luna gasped. 

The mist like creature was an evil being, sealed in another realm to keep Equestria safe from it's kind. She watched as it attacked Sombra, possessing his body and changing him into a creature of darkness as well. His horn became red and curved, his pupals turned red and eyes glowed green. He even grew fangs in his mouth, which showed his transformation from a pony into a creature of evil. This was the Sombra that Princess Luna knew, and she had a feeling of what the other mirrors would show. She was not looking forward to it, though.

Events played out in the mirrors just like she thought they would. Mirrors showed how he turned the queen of the Crystal Empire into stone and smashed her into pieces, killing her to take the throne for himself. It showed how he took over the kingdom and turned all the crystal ponies into his slaves. It showed how she and her sister showed up to put a stop to his plans, but at the cost of the Crystal Empire disappearing for a thosand years. It showed Sombra trapped in the snow, as he wait and plotted until he and the kingdom could return. And when it did, the mirrors showed how Twilight Sparkle and friends put a stop to him.

The mirrors then showed something that made Luna stop and look on in amazment, a human male. She had never seen one before, but read about them in ancient texts, and this one matched all the details she rid. She quickly realized it was Mark when he saw him find a crystal in what looked like a small park, and watched as he picked it up and was teleported into Equestria. From there, the mirrors played out the events of Mark since he arrived in Equestria, leading to the night at the gala. The last mirror, the one that showed what happened at the Grand Galloping Gala, had a crack in it, as this was the night where eveything changed for Mark. As well as almost died.

Luna had at last come to the end of the hallway, and was beginning to understand what might be happening to Mark. Even if Sombra was ejected from his mind, the damage that was caused during that small time, as well as Mark slowly adjusting to life as a pony was effecting his mind. Looking inside the last mirror and was surprised to see Mark within. He looked to be inside the Canterlot prison, sitting in the corner of the cell in a slump, his ears pulled back and a horribly sad expession on his face. No doubt he was having some sort of nightmare.

"Why would he dream of..."

Suddenly, a hoof grabbed Mark from behind, forcing him to turn around quickly. As he did, his eyes widen in horror at what he saw. It was Sombra. But he wasn't in his royal armor that he was always seen wearing. No, he was standing in front of Mark looking almost like a normal unicorn, except with glowing eyes and a red curved horn. If one was to look at the two stallions, they would almost mistake them as twins.

"Sombra..." Mark whispered, horrified at what he was seeing.

"Hello me, meet the real me." Sombra grinned evily. "And my misfit way of life."

"No, no. That's not true. I'm not you. That's impossible!"

Sombra just continued to stare at him with a wicked smile.

"A dark black past is my most valued possession. Hindsight is always 20/20, but looking back it's still a bit fuzzy. Speaking of mutually assured destruction? Nice story.... Tell it to the tabloids."

Mark paused. He was sure he heard those words before, but he couldn't remember where. Then, he realized that he heard them as lyrics in a song, and quickly spoke the name as the words hit his brain.

"Megadeth."

"Nice little gingle." Sombra chuckled. "Guess you humans have good taste in music after all."

"Why are you here?" Mark cautiously ask.

"Why do you think? I'm a part of you now." He answered surprisingly calm.

"You're NOT part of me!" Mark snapped.

"Ahh, but that's where you are wrong. You see, I'm not really the real Sombra. Not fully. I'm a fragment of his soul that stayed inside you after our little... Encounter. To keep from fading into nothingness, I had no choice but to merge myself with you."

"So you're trying to possess me!" Mark exclaimed, taking a defensive stance.

"You're wrong. It is you that has possessed me."

"What?"

"Allow me to explain. Because I'm just a fragment of Sombra, I lack the power to take over your mind. During my time here, the evil of the umbrum has left me, and has left me here with nothing to do but look back at my past." He closed his eyes to sigh, a slight frown on his face. "I wasn't always the king of shadows, you know, I was once a normal pony like everypony else. It was only when I became obsessed with dark magic that I changed, as the umbrum took control of my very core."

"Wait. Why are you telling me all this?"

"I'm not. I'm explaining it to our guest there." Sombra smiled, pointing over to the side.

Princess Luna froze for a second, surprised that he knew she was even there. Once she recovered, she decided it was time to get to the bottom of all this. Channelling her magic, she turned the mirror frame into a door frame, allowing her to enter the cell with them.

"Ah, Princess Luna. How nice to see you again. We've been waiting for you." Sombra greeted her.

"Silence you cur! I will not allow you to corrupt Mark's mind any further." She scolded. Her wings spread open and her horn readying a magic spell.

"You've got it all wrong, you highness. I'm not trying to do such a thing."

"Luna? How did you get here? What's going on?" Mark asked, confused at eveything going on.

"Shhhh.... The grown ups are talking." Sombra stated, putting a hoof to his lips. Charging his horn, he opened a portal in what Luna knew was another dream, before grabbing him with his magic. "Why don't you go have fun someplace else."

And before Luna could react, Sombra threw Mark into the portal before using his magic close it shut.

"Now, where were we?"

"You fiend. Where have you sent him?" Luna demanded. Still ready to engage her foe.

"Relax. I just sent him into a different dream so we could speak privately." Sombra said as he took a seat on the cell bed. "We knew you were coming, so that's why I arranged a meeting."

"But why in a prison cell? This doesn't seem fitting for a stallion such as you." Luna commented, giving her surroundings a disgusted look.

"Correction. It's a fitting place for my predicament." He chuckled. "But to answer your question, Mark was the one dreaming of being in here."

"Why would he dream of such a thing?"

"Because he had an argument with Twilight Sparkle, and with the knowledge that you and your sister knew of his problems, he thought that you'd see him as a villain. So he dreamt he was put in jail." 

"Why would Mark think such a thing? We only wish to help him." Luna said, slightly hurt that Mark would even think such a thing.

"Because he fears what he might become. Because of his mixed memories and me in his head." Sombra answered.

"Then the best solution is to finish you off once and for all." Luna declared, once again readying herself for combat.

"Go ahead. Finish me off." He calmly said as he got up and stood infront of her. "I'm already dead. I'm nothing but a fragment of the real Sombra, so I welcome the void."

"Then we are agreed then. You must go."

"But know this, princess of the night, getting rid of me won't solve everything. Mark's too far gone."

"What do you mean?" Luna asked.

"Even without me, Mark's memories will still be warped by the failed possession. He will still be plagued by emotions and desires not fully his own, and still question weather or not he truely is still himself. And even still, he will still be left to face the darkness within himself. He was once a human, after all." Sombra replied.

"What does that have to do with anything?"

"Everything! Human's by their very nature are nothing more then monsters. Since their creation, humans have fought and killed for many reasons. From religion, to justice, to simple pleasure. They're not like the ponies of Equestria, who long for peace and harmony. They long for conflict. Even now on his home world, battles are being fought while those in power plot how to get rich off of such conflict. They even have a weapon that can kill thousands in seconds."

"Your wrong, Mark's not like that." Luna stated.

"True. Not every one of them are blood thirsty savages, but he still is not the same as pony kind. He will always fight against the darkness inside his very heart. Just like you still do, Luna."

Luna had heard enough. She fired a blast of magic that sent him slamming into the wall with hard smack. He staggered for a moment to get up on his hooves, seeing her eyes glow white as she focused her power.

"Seems I touched a nerve."

"Silence foul creature. I will not allow this go on for another second. Mark will be free from your grasp, and he will find peace in his life. He's a strong pony, and has more heart then you'll ever know."

Wasting no time, she released her magic before he could get a chance to react. Luna watched in grim satisfaction as the last of Sombra was destroyed. Silently screaming as he was burned to nothing.

It was over.

Luna sighed as she took a moment to collect herself. Sombra's words had touched her more then she cared to admit. It was true that she still struggled with the darkness in inside herself. Not too long ago, Twilight's friends and most of Ponyville had to help her come to terms with her past. But she was slowly moving on, and making the most of her life. She knew that Mark would be able to do the same.

Using her dream magic, she warped to were Mark was at so she could give him the good news. As reality formed around her, she found herself in what looked like Twilight's castle. She noticed she was in one of the guest rooms, as she saw the occupied bed not far from where she stood. Two figures moved under the covers, giggling and moaning as they wrestled under their silk shield.

Luna's face turned crimson.

It was at that time, did the occupants come out of the covers for some air. It was Mark and Applejack. When Mark turned his head and saw Luna, his face also blushed as he froze in place.

"L-Luna? Is that you?" He struggled to ask.

Luna simply nodded.

"I'm dreaming, ain't I?"

Another nod.

He quickly got out of the bed, making his way over to the night princess. When he glanced a look back to the bed, he saw that Applejack was frozen in place.

"Sorry about this. I uhhh... Well, that is to say...."

"You have nothing to apologize for." She said, warmly. "After everything that's happened, you deserve to be happy."

"Thanks. I... Wait a minute, didn't I see you before?" He asked.

"Yes. When you dreamed you where in a prison cell."

"Yeah... I had a dream you and Celestia put me in a cell because I was becoming too much like Sombra. Then he appeared and told me we were the same. That's when you showed up and...." He paused. "He's really is still inside my head, isn't he?"

"No. I just took care of him." She calmly replied.

"Then I'm cured?"

"I'm afraid it doesn't work that way." Luna shook her head slowly, a small frown on her lips. "I may have gotten rid of the last part of Sombra's spirit from your body, but the effects will still be the same."

Mark slumped as he heard this. He couldn't believe he went through all that trouble and had made no progress in the end. He would be forced to have memories of a dictator inside his head, never being about to tell where his past end and Sombra's began. How would he be able to handle the sins of Sombra's past? Could he convince himself that it wasn't his doing, or would he have to live with regret over the past for the rest of his life.

Suddenly, he felt a hoof resting on his withers, and looked up to see Luna standing next to him. Giving him a warm smile.

"It's okay, Mark. Just because some of Sombra's memories are mixed in with yours, doesn't make you him."

"But... All those things he's done. The Crystal Empire..."

"Are not your fault. Remember, in the short time you've been here you've done nothing but good things." Luna pointed out. "you're a good pony, Mark. You have friends who love you and will be there for you even when you begin to question yourself. Trust me, I know."

Mark looked up at Luna for a moment, pondering what she just said. Then his face lit up as everything click inside his mind, as if he solved a puzzle that had recently stumped him.

"You're right, princess. I don't have to let the memories of the past haunt my present, not when I can make new better ones in there place. I'll learn from my experiences and push forward, becoming the pony Sombra could never be." Mark declared.

Luna gave an approving nod.

"Then my work here is done." She said. "Before I go and you wake, I have one last thing to discuss. I heard that you argued with Twilight about something."

"Huh? Oh yeah. I got angry because I learned that you guys were hiding a mirror that could possibly send me back home."

Luna blinked for a second. "Ah, that mirror. I'm afraid it's not what you think. You see, while it's true that it does lead to a reality with humans, it's still not your world. From Twilight's reports, it's a pocket world were everypony in Equestria is human and go to highschool.

Undrstand Mark, even if you would have went to that world, it still would not be your own. There are many different worlds and realities similar but different then our own. The multiverse theory, if I remember correctly. Finding your home in your reality is like finding a needle in a haystack."

"I... I see." Mark thought for a moment. So if that's true, then if I did go through that mirror than I'd be in highschool again. No thank you. My past school life was hell enough, I don't need to relive it.

"Promise me that you'll try talking things over with Twilight." Luna spoke, snapping him out of his thoughts.

"I will. I only got angry cause I thought it might be a way home. But I see now that home is where you make it." He smiled.

"Good. Then it's time for us to leave."

"Wait!"

"What is it?" Luna asked, curious as to why he stopped her.

"Cou- could I have a few more minutes with this dream?" Mark blushed, pointing a hoof to the bed.

Luna fought back a small giggle. 

"Very well. You deserve it."

And so she left Mark and his dreams as she finished the rest of her nighty duties for the evening.







After waking up to quite a series of strange dreams, Mark decided to hop in the shower real quick. After a soothing wash, he felt alot better, and not just physically. It felt like a weight in his mind was lefted, an for the first time in what felt like months he wasn't on autopilot. He knew he had Luna to think, as well as Applejack and Twilight for getting her to visit his dreams. He then remembered how he got angry at Twilight last night and felt bad about what happened.

He started to make his way to the kitchen, hoping they would run into each other there like they always did for breakfast. But as he turned the hallway, he noticed that the door to the library was cracked open. Curious, he walked over to the door to sneak a peak inside, to see if anypony was inside. Sure enough, he found Twilight sitting next to a table with tons of books stacked on top of it. It looked like Twilight was up all night trying to study something.

"Twilight?" Mark softly asked. Getting her to turn to face him. The small bags under her eyes said it all. "Have you been here the whole night?"

"Mostly." She answered with a small yawn. "I've looked through every book on different worlds and dimensions, but it's too much to make sense of. Apparently there are to many possibilities in the multiverse to know if we could even send you back to your right planet, or even time."

"Yeah, I watched way too many episodes of Rick and Morty to know that." Mark chuckled.

"What?"

"Nevermind." He said as he walked closer to her. "Look Twilight, I know why you stayed up to look through all that," he pointed to the books on the table "and you don't have to do all of this. I don't deserve that much kindness."

"But Mark, what about finding a way ho..."

"I don't care anymore. Look, I'm sorry I got angry at you. But I had sometime to think things over and I realized there's no place I'd rather be then right here with my friends." He smiled.

"You mean that?"

"Of course. After all, the devil you know is better then the one you don't know."

"What?"

"It's a saying on my world. Like the grass is always greener on  the other side." Mark explained.

"Oh, I get it now." Twilight said, giving out a big yawn.

"What do you say we go get some breakfast and some coffee?"

"Sure." Twilight giggled. "But with how I'm feeling I could the whole pot."
> Chapter 6: Fruits of Love
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

        "Remind me why we're going over to the apple farm to spend the day." Starlight Glimmer sighed as her and her two 'castle mates' walked down the road.

"Because the apple family are celebrating the end of the havest season with a little party." Twilight explained. "And Applejack invited all of her friends to come over and celebrate with her."

"Yeah. Cheer up, Glims. You might even have a good time." Mark replied, though both girls noticed he had an extra spring in his step.

Mark himself noticed that after Luna's visit in his dreams, he seemed much happier in the last few days. It was like a weight was lefted off his shoulders, and he was free to feel joy in his life once again. Twilight couldn't help but smile at Mark and his almost Pinkie Pie like happiness, as it was good to see him acting like he did before everything happened to him.

"Oh bug off, Mark. We all know why you're excited to be going there." Starlight said with a sly smile. "You just want to be with your marefriend."

"Heh heh. It's true." He chuckled, a blush clearly visible on his face.

"So Twilight, why didn't bring Spike with us to the party?" Starlight asked.

"Because it's not a party meant for little kids." She answered.

"Yeah, It's a grown up party! I bet there's going to be cider and everything." Mark chimmed in. "Oh man, nothing like a good mug of the Apple family's famous apple cider after a long day of work."

That one earned some puzzled looks from the two mares walking with him.

"What? While I was on duty, me and the boys would spend our free time relaxing and sharing a pint whenever we could." Mark explained. "My friend Flentlock always drunk the rest of us under the table."

Mark started bursting up laughing at the memory, earning a chuckle from Twilight and a confused look from Starlight. The three ponies continued walking down the road. Never noticing that in the distance, several figures continued to watch them from behind the bushes.





The group soon arrived at Sweet Apple Acres, and was surprised by the sight before them. The Apple family was big, so it was no stranger to large crowds getting together at the farmhouse. Though most of the time it was because of a family reunion, this little get together was uncommon sight at the farm. The barn had it's doors wide open, and was decked out with stream hanging above the frames. No doubt Pinkie Pie had a hoof in that. A few bench tables were around the barn, with one or two inside it.

A few of their friends were already there, Big Mac was with them, all at AJ's invitation. Rarity and Rainbow Dash sat at one of the tables while Big Mac just helped himself to some of the chips n dip that was sitting on it. Both girls glanced over to him, which caused him to stop with a look that said 'what?'.

Applejack stood infront of them, looking as excited as a young schoolfilly. Beside her was something covered behind a white sheet. Pinkie pie's attempts at uncovering the sheet was rewarded with several slaps on her hooves, so she was forced to just sit there and wait for the reveal like everypony else. That didn't stop her from pouting in disappointment.

"Hi guys, we're here." Twilight greeted as her and her two roomies walked up to the group.

"Oh man, I can't wait to get things started. This is gonna be so cool!" Mark exclaimed excitedly.

"I hope so. I don't like being dragged somewhere when I had plans for the day." Starlight huffed. She and Twilight and Mark joined her as they took a seat next to there friends.

Rarity whipped her mane behind her head with a quick flick of her head. "Well Applejack, I hope this was important. Telling us all not to have anything planned today, and making me send my little sister off to that slumber party at Ditzy Doo's house."

"Yeah, sorry about that. It was the only way I could get Apple Bloom and the girls outta our manes for tonight." Applejack explained. "I talked ta Ditzy, and she didn't mind throwing a little slumber party for the girls so we could have some free time."

"COME ON!" Pinkie whined. "I wanna see what's behind the sheeeet!"

"Patience Pinkie, we still have ta wait on Fluttershy." Applejack commented to her friend. Given her a good stink-eye for good measure.

"Well, I for one am happy you set this little get together up, AJ." Mark spoke up. "Having some time to relax and enjoy the company of good friends is the best."

"I'll second that." Dash replied.

"Eeeyup." Big Mac simply nodded.

"That reminds me darling, didn't Twilight say that Princess Luna visited you in your sleep? To help deal with the remains of that awful Sombra fellow?" Rarity asked.

Mark then saw that his friends were all eyes, as they looked eager for a reply.

"Well, yeah. She did help clear up any remains of his spirit from  trying to take hold." He answered, though a sad smile was his muzzle. "However, most of my memories are still gumbled with his. So it's like I lived two separate lifes at once."

Just then, Applejack walked over and placed a hoof on his wither. He looked up at her and saw the most beautiful and warm smile come from her.

"The important thing is that ya don't have ta worry anymore about all that. You're cured, and can move on and live a happy life with us." Applejack said, as she leaned in and gave him a quick nuzzle.

Mark blushed as the others looked on at the couple's affection. Some gave assuring smiles and nods, while others (Starlight, Dash and Pinkie) tried their best to hold back giggles. 

Before he could reply to them, Fluttershy finally made her way to the group.

"Sorry I'm late, everypony." She said as caught her breathe. "I had to help a poor little lost duckling find her momma."

"It's cool, Shy." Dash said as she waved a hoof to join her over at the table.

"Alright. Looks like everypony is finally here." AJ said she began to walk back over to were the white sheet was. "Thank ya all for comin over today. We've been friends for awhile now, and have been through some crazy stuff. With harvest season wrapping up and Mark finally comin back home, I thought it would be best ta celebrate with the ponies I consider family."

That earned a few 'aww's' from the group.

"And what better way then ta get ya involved with an old Apple family tradition." With that, she grabbed the sheet next to her and tore it off, revealing what was underneath.

"Cider!" Rainbow Dash exclaimed excitedly.

"Called it!" Mark yelled as he did a little victory gig in his seat.

Everyone indeed saw that several barrels of the Apple family's famous brew was sitting in a nice little stack. Twilight counted out seven barrels of the brew, earning squeals of joy from Pinkie, Dash and Mark.

"Fermented cider," Applejack explained. "We always save a few barrels for the family every year for our personal stash. We keep some stored away to let 'em age for awhile. Now they're ready for some real drinking."

"Ohh man, do you know how hard it is to get ahold of apple cider this rare?" Mark looked at the barrels in wonder. "I know guards that would give their cutie mark up for just a taste of this stuff!"

Starlight raised her eyebrow up on that one.

"Aww, yeah! Let's do this!" Dash exclaimed, almost drooling at the thought of tasting such sweet cider.

"Actual alcohol? I've never had that before." Twilight admitted.

"What?" Rainbow Dash was shocked by what she heard. "I can't believe I'm hearing this."

"Oh this is going to be good." Starlight muttered to herself.

Twilight blushed a little, rubbing the back of her head sheepishly. "To be honest, I never had the time. I was always busy studying, plus I had Spike to take care of."

"It's okay, Twi. Before I came to Equestria, I only drunk maybe only a few times." Mark explained. "I only started to drink again because my friends in the guard wanted me to join them after our shift was over."

"Oh, you totally have to try it at least once." Pinkie chimed in excitedly. "I bet you'll be the silliest one out of all of us."

"That's why I had Ditzy Doo arranged that sleepover for the youngin's. That way we have the rest of the night to cut loose." Applejack nodded.

"Umm... If it makes you feel better, Twilight, I've only been drunk once." Fluttershy softly added.

"I suppose I could have a mug or two," Rarity commented while fluffing her mane. "But not too much! I am a lady, after all."

"Okay. Then what do you say we get things started?" Starlight claimed as she threw a hoof into the air dramaticly.








About fifteen minutes, and the party was just getting started. It was late afternoon, and Celestia's sun was just beginning to set. With everything in full swing, each of the guest were broke off and talking among themselves. Twilight took a small sip of her drink, and recoiled at the bitter taste. Mark and Applejack, not too far from were she was, couldn't help but smirk at their friend's reaction.

"Really is your first time drinking, eh sugercube?" Applejack asked as she and her coltfriend walked up to her.

"That obvious?" Twilight asked, a little embarrassed.

"Ahh, don't feel to bad about it, Twi." Mark patted her on the back softly. "Everypony has a bad first time drinking, it's because of the burning taste of alcohol. You should have seen me at my cousin's bachelor party."

"Like he said, Twi, you just ain't used ta the taste." AJ added. "It ain't nothing ta be ashamed of, and we understand why ya all haven't had much experience doing this sort of thing. Truth be told, I don't get much chance ta drink either. What with me and Mac havin ta raise Apple Bloom an all."

"You mean 'Mac a I'." Twilight corrected.

That caused Mark to bust out laughing. Applejack just gave them both a playful stink-eye.

"Ha ha ha ha ha hah.... I don't think this mare's had enough cider."

"I think he's right, sugercube. You need ta quit thinkin so much and relax." Applejack agreed. "Go on, chug the thing!"

"But it tastes all weird...."

"That's because you're drinking it too slow." Mark explained, holding out his mug to demonstrate. "You gotta drink it down fast, so you don't taste the bitter alcohol. Here, like this..."

Mark then took the mug to his lips, tilted his head back and started chugging his cider in big load gulps. In just a few seconds, he was finished, holding his mug off to the side while whipping his chin. A refreshing 'ahh' escaped his lips.

"See, just like that." Applejack pointed out, but gave Mark a look when he let out a loud belch. "Now go on, Twi. Give it one big gulp."

Twilight paused for a moment as she looked down at her mug. Just one big gulp. Come on, Twilight. You can do this.

Twilight followed Mark's example, and quickly downed the thing. Allowing the bitter liquid to leap past her tongue and down her throat. So took a few good chugs before she pulled back, coughing wildly. Drips of cider run down her chin, soaking her coat.

"Uhgh, my throat is burning!" Twilight complained, before giving the two a look. "Why am I drinking this again?"

"Ya just gotta wait for the effects ta kick in." Applejack assured her while taking a sip of her mug.

"And on that note, how about I get us anough drink?" Mark took Twilight's mug with his own before she could answer and started walking over to pour them another mug.

"Thanks Applejack, this is a great party." The purple alicorn thanked her.

"Aww, it's nothin." the cowpony quickly replied, taking a moment to play with her mug.

"You know, you and Mark don't have to hang around me all night. You guys can spend time with the others if you want to."

"Aww, they're big fillies, they can handle themselves." The cowpony chuckled. "Besides, we don't mind hanging out with ya."

Twilight paused for a moment, unsure if she should ask what was on her mind. But a questioning look from AJ caused her to push on. "AJ.... I don't mean to pry, but why aren't you and Mark spending time alone together?"

That caused the earth pony's eyes to widen in surprise for a second, a blush slowly growing on her face.

"You're not still mad at him leaving for so long, are you?"

"No." Applejack sighed. "It's just that he's been through so much in such a short time. I just wanna make sure he's ready before we take the next steps."

"You don't have to worry too much. I already know he thinks the world of you, AJ."

"I know... It's just... Think about it, Twi. He was a human from another world, ripped from his home and family. He was sent to Equestria and turned into a pony, all because he was sent here to be a pawn by an evil tyrant."

Applejack hung her head back, allowing her to take another drink.

"Look, Mark may have found friends while he was here, and we may've gotten close to each other. But deep down he's still a lost soul in an alien world."

"But he says he's not worried about going home anymore." Twilight commented.

"So he says. But it' just an act. Mark is a dependable pony, and has done some heroic deeds. But after all that Sombra has put him through, I'm afraid...."

"Afraid of what?"

Both Twilight and Applejack turned to see Mark standing there, holding freshly poured mugs.

"I... I was just sayin..."

"It's cool, girls." He handed Twilight her mug while giving them both a big smile. "I know you're just worried about me."

"Sorry I was talkin about ya, sugercube." Applejack said with a sigh.

"All is forgivin." He said, putting an arm around her. "Now let us forget all that pointless worrying. Tonight is a happy occasion. Come, let us play a fun round of 'cider pong'."

As Mark began leading them to an open area to set up the game, Twilight thought to herself.

I wonder if AJ has a point. Is this all just an act? Is he still hiding his true feelings from us?







Starlight and Rarity stood off to the side as they watched there friends all having a good time. Fluttershy and Big Mac were off by themselves having a conversation, while Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie where getting into some kind of debate. Rarity slowly and gracefully sipped her mug, while Starlight took a good swig of her's.

"Looks like those two are enjoying themselves." Starlight said as she pointed at the yellow pegasus and red earth pony.

"The white unicorn gave her a smirk. "Good for her. I'm glad to see her opening up more."

"They do look like a cute pair." 

"hmm, I see what you mean. Fluttershy is kind but shy, and Big Mac is strong but quite. I'm a little surprised that we've never really seen those two together before." Rarity took another drink.

"Well, tonight would be a good night to get closer." Starlight commented with a sly smile.

"Anything is possible." Rarity giggled.

Both remained silent for a moment, both taking drinks from their mugs as they continued to watch their friends. Mark, Applejack and Twilight were having a fun time playing some sort of drinking game. While Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie looked like they were starting a drinking match. They chuckled as they watched the match from the sides.

"Looks like Dash is trying to beat Pinkie in a drinking contest." Starlight pointed out.

"It won't end well." Rarity stated. "Pinkie is many things, but that mare is NO lightweight."

"How do you know that?"

"I had the misfortune of going out drinking with her one night. Poor Dash doesn't stand a chance."

Starlight laughed at the thought, while Rarity took that moment to take another sip.

"So Starlight, still in touch with Trixie?" 

"Sure am." Starlight nodded. "We decided to send  letters to each other while she finishes her tour."

"that's good."






Rainbow Dash gulped down her fourth mug, slamming it down on the table. Wiping her mouth, she gave a convenient smile before looking over to Pinkie Pie, who was just finishing her mug as well. Dash saw a pile of empty mugs beside the pink mare, and she began to deflate when she counted seven in total.

"What?!" The pegasus exclaimed in disbelief. "How? You... But... I'm only on my fifth mug!"

"Sorry Dashie," Said before letting out a small burp. "But you shouldn't have challenged me to a drinking contest."

"Wait... Are calling me a lightweight?"

"If the socks fit." Pinkie said with a smirk, reaching off to the side and grabbing a new mug.

"All right, them's fighting words." Dash scufffed, as she too reached for a new mug of cider. "Bring. It. Now."

The drinking contest continued in earnest, as both mares downed their drinks with gusto. Meanwhile, Fluttershy and Big Mac watched them from the sides as they went to one of the freshly tapped cask to pour themselves another mug.

"Oh my." Fluttershy muttered as she watched her friends behavior. "Do you think we should stop them?"

"Nope." Big Mac simply answered. He then handed her a full mug, giving her a warm smile as he done so.

"Thank you, Big Mac." She said politely. "Your such a kind stallion."

That earned a small blush from the big red earth pony, but it was hard to tell on the count of him being red.

"Ms. Fluttershy, the stars are out tonight. Would ya like ta look at them with me?" He asked, if not sounding a little nervous.

"Why, I'd love to Big Mac." She answered, and the two began walking out in the moon lit field. "And please, just call me Fluttershy."





Mark, Applejack and Twilight were off to themselves playing a few rounds of 'cider pong'. Since both mares had never heard of the game before, he had to explain the rules for them to play. It was just like beer pong back on earth, only they were using mugs of cider instead. The rules were simple, they would lay their mugs on a table and they would each take turns throwing a small ball into one of the mugs. If the ball landed in somepony else's mug, then that pony had to drink from their mug.

So far, it had been quite a fun little game. Mark had to drink from his mug only five times, while Applejack had to about ten times. Making her start to feel a little buzzed by now. Twilight however, had the worst luck so far, as she had to drink from her mug almost twenty times. By now, she was well into her sixth mug, and the effects of the alcohol had long since kicked in.

"Ya feeling alright, sugercube?"

By now, the purple alicorn was moving back and forth a bit, but a huge goofy grin was on her face. "I'm fine guys, really. After the first few mugs, it gets much easier to swollow this stuff."

"That's because your too drunk to taste it." Mark chuckled. "You're totally hammered right now."

"No I'm not."

"Yes sugercube, you are." Applejack agreed with the grey unicorn.

"I'm like, totally not right now." Twilight slurred. "Here, I'll prove that I'm not."

She then fumbled to pick up the small ball in her hooves, before throwing it at the three mugs on the table. The ball bounced off the table before falling into one of them. "Ha! Told ya." Twilight proclaimed.

"Uhh... Twi, that's your cup." Applejack pointed out.

"Oh."

"I think maybe now's a good time to cut you off." Mark said as he used his magic to levitate her mug off the table.

"But why?" Twilight whined.

"Trust us Twi, you'll thank us in the morning." Applejack stated.





Rainbow Dash downed her twentieth mug. "Don'tch thank you.... You can beat me, Pinkchie." She slurred heavily in drunk talk. She was having trouble just staying up at this point.

Pinkie also finished her twentieth mug, but a quick glance at Dash caused her to pause. "Hey Dashie, maybe we better call it quits." She said, also starting to feel tipsy at the moment.

"NO WAY! Not untilllsss we desssidesss a wiener." Dash responded, swaying a little in her seat.

"Then you win, Dash." Pinkie said with a sigh. "You win."

"Ha!" Dash suddenly stood up to point at pinkie, ignoring the fact fact that the whole barn was spinning. "Maybee nhow you'll agree, I'm the best wiener in aalll of Ponyspille."

"Okay Dash, you're the best 'wiener'." Pinkie agreed, hoping her friend would calm down before she hurt herself.

"Maybee nhow you'll agree.... I'm the best wiener in aalll of Ponyspille..."

"You already said that."

Dash stared at her friend, trying make sense of what she just said. She continued to stare... And stare... Until finally, she fell forward and slumped onto the table. Everypony else in the barn heard her crash onto the table, and were walking over to check on their friend. A low and muttled groan came from the cyan pegasus.

"Oh dear, looks like the poor dear is out like a light." Rarity commented.

"I tried to tell her." Pinkie gave everypony an apologizing look. "But she wouldn't listen."

"I think maybe we better call it a night." Mark suggested.

That earned an 'awww' from a drunk Twilight and Pinkie Pie.

"I hate ta say it, but sugercube has a point." Applejack agreed. "It's getting late, and we still have ta get the drunk one's home."







It was now growing late in the night, as everypony decided to call it quits. Their first priority was getting the passed out Rainbow Dash, as well as the drunk Twilight Sparkle and Pinkie Pie home save. Applejack tried to look for Big Mac to give them a hand, but him and Fluttershy were nowhere to be fround. So they had no choice but use one of the farm's spare wheelbarrows to load Dash into. Pinkie and Rarity would make sure she would return home safely, while Starlight would help walk Twilight home.

"Bye guys, be careful on the way home." Mark waved to Rarity and Pinkie, as they started to leave the farm with the full wheelbarrow.

"We will, daring. You be sure to be careful as well." Rarity replied.

"Have fun!" Pinkie yelled back to them as she pushed the wheelbarrow. Mark heard Rarity tell her to be careful with Dash.

"I love you guyyies." Twilight giggled as Starlight gentle pushed her along. She was caught off guard as Twilight nuzzled into her, affectionately. "You're the bessst friendsss a mare like me could ever have."

"Okay! Let's get you home before you embarrass youself further." Starlight blushed, continuing to stear her friend home.

As she passed were Applejack and Mark were standing, she looked over and said, "You guyiesss are just the cuuttest couple."

Both of them looked at each other sheepishly, before returning their attention back to her.

"Uhhh... Thanks." Mark answered back.

"Ppsssttt.... Hey Applejack..." Twilight tried to whisper over to her, but was failing miserably. "Mark is a real great and handsome stallion. You better jump his bones soon, before I do."

Silence.

Everypony's eyes were wide and faces burning red at what Twilight said in her drunken stupor.

"Now I KNOW you're going to regret that tomorrow." Starlight said as she redoubled her efforts to get her off the farm.

The two remaining ponies stayed silent until all their friends had left the farm. Neither one would look at each other for too long, as their eyes would wonder someplace else. But the silence must be broken, and somepony had to take that first step.

"So... Do you think we should start cleaning up, or what?" Mark asked.

"Nah, I'm not in the mood tonight. Applejack answered, taking a look at the now empty barn. "Besides, Big Mac should do it. On the count that he wondered off on us."

Mark pondered about that a second. It was true that he and Fluttershy were nowhere to be fround, and he couldn't help but wonder what that reason could be. I'm pretty sure that those two are okay. He thought to himself. Then a wild idea popped into his head that he just couldn't believe. Those two didn't sneak off to go.... Did they?

Applejack slowly turned around and began making her way toward the house.

"Look, I'm gonna go take a break in the house." She said, as she paused to turn and look at him. "So, ya all care ta join me inside?"

....................

Did she ask what I think she asked? Mark panicked to himself. Oh shit, I can't believe that this is happening. Wait, she's looking at you. She's waiting on an answer. Answer you fool. ANSWER!

"Uhhh.... Sure."

Nailed it.
> Chapter 7: Fruits of Love part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

            As both Mark and Applejack stepped inside of Applejack's house, the air felt warmer and inviting compared to the chili night air. Although he hadn't drunk enough to be completely smashed, Mark was still sporting quite a good buzz right now. Being alone with his marefriend, he couldn't help but have images of the possibilities. Whispers of sweet nothings and giggles into each other's ears, cuddling happily on the couch, and giving into each other's passions fully. The sheer magnitude of this moment completely took Mark by surprise, as he had never made it this far with a female before. Much less been drunk together with one at her place before.

The whole thing was making his head swimming, signs that he was too drunk to think right now. He leaned against Applejack to steady himself, forgetting that she was just as drunk as he was at the moment. They both started to sway and stumble, as they came a few steps away from falling ontop of each other in the living room.

"Ssshhhh.... Ya don't wanna wake up Granny Smith." Applejack whispered to him, as they both steadied themselves. They then began to make their the the bottom of the stairs.

"Hold steady partner," AJ said, keeping a hoof wrapped around Mark while she pointed up. "We just gotta get up these here steps and then we can figure out how ta go from there." They both started helping each other up the stairs, necks swaying and bumping against each other as they progressed their way up. As Applejack tried using the side of the wall for support, Mark caught a whiff of her scent as he leaned against her. The scent was almost more intoxicating then the alcohol, as it was sweet like cinnamon and very feminine.

As they reached the top of the stairs, Mark couldn't help but nuzzle into her neck affectionately. She blushed heavily, but didn't fight against it.

"Shoot, I'm surprised ta see a unicorn like yourself handle drinking like you did." Applejack commented as they broke from their affectionate moment. "Most of them, like Twilight and Rarity, get tipsy after just a few good mugs. It might be somethin ta do with how they have ta use their noggin's for magic."

"True, but you forget my dear lady... I was once an earth pony like you." Mark smirked.

That got a giggle from her. "Ya got me one that one. Earth ponies are also know for holding their alcohol down."

"Like dwarves."

The two shared a quick laugh, before she snapped out of it an gave a quick 'shhh'. She then muttered to herself, "What were we doing again?" Looking around for a moment, she spotted her door and carefully swayed towards the door frame. Mark took a moment to admire the way her rump swayed side to side, before following after her.

After the door closed behind them, Mark took a second to view his surroundings. The window of to the side of the wall had the moonlight shining through half closed curtains, which gave the room a nice light and atmosphere. He saw Applejack as she took off her hat and began to remove the tie from her tail, giving her rump a little shake to let it sway out. He quickly shifted his gaze someplace else, taking a moment to really look at the mare's room. He noticed that her bed saw about a full size and was perfectly made which didn't surprise him. He saw a dresser, but couldn't think of what she could have inside, as she hardly wore anything and didn't like to dress up. A hat stand with her now discarded hat. And a little night stand that had a comb, as well as a few makeup products.

Once she was finished, Applejack took a seat on the bed, before looking at Mark with a small smile. She took a hoof and patted the spot beside her, signalling for him to come sit beside her. He slowly did so, but inside his heart was beating like drums and his head was all fuzzy. He had no idea what to do.

Mark took a seat beside her in the bed, taking a moment to get comfy. As soon as he did, she took a moment to affectionately nibble his ear. She then took lips and began playfully grazing his horn, causing him to whinny with passion. The mare nuzzled into into him, and a single thought made him sobber up just a bit. Applejack's not herself right now.

"We can't." He said simply as he carefully pushed her off him.

"Why not?" She whined, looking at him with confused eyes.

"Because you're drunk and not yourself right now. It wouldn't be right."

There was a moment of silence as neither pony said anything, both just taking the time to look at the floor. Then the silence was broken as the cowgirl asked in a soft voice, "Do ya love me?" that caused the two to look deeply into each other's eyes.

"Of course I love you, Applejack." Mark said as he took a hoof and softly placed it on her cheek. "With all of my heart."

"Then be with me." She softly spoke as the moonlight caused her eyes to glisten. "Ah love you Mark, more then I ever have any other stallion. You've been through so much Mark, and ya deserve ta be happy." She then placed a hoof on his. "I'm givin ya permission, as your marefriend.... I want this."

She then leaned forward and allowed both of their foreheads to touch, their eyes peering deep inside each other's. "I want ta feel your love, ta have our relationship move on ta the next step." their muzzles were only centimeters from touching. "I want ta feel special."

"But you are special, to me."

He then leaned in and kissed her so hard she was caught by surprise, having to place both hooves on his shoulders for balance. But she didn't care. His tongue swept into her mouth and her whole body shivered with passion. She had a hooful of his mane as she kissed him back. She could feel her mouth get crowded and taste him as their tongues met.

Mark had left her mouth, which felt strangely swollen, and was trailing kisses down the side of her neck. She could hear herself gasping for air, completely lost in this magic moment. He was cuddling her into his chest and kissing her neck and stroking my back, and she was loving every second of it. There was a pause as he leaned in and kissed her lips softly this time.

Mark gently put a hoof on her chest and pushed down, making her lay down infront of him on the bed. He then was rolling over on top of her and nibbling her throat. Applejack laughed as his muzzle tickled her, and Mark looked up to her and smiled with a look of pure uncomplicated happiness. He leaned up against her again, not nearly so gently this time, and then his mouth was covering hers, his tongue was rubbing against hers, and his arms were around her, pressing him against her.

They kissed for what felt like an hour. Mark pulled free and looked deep into her eyes, his shined with a look of pure determination. He was tried of fighting his attraction for her, tired of pretending he didn't feel it in his stomach every time she smiled. For too long he had to hide his feelings and pushed himself away from her, all because of the changes Sombra left him with. But now, they were together once again. And tonight he was going to prove his love for her.

He kissed her softly on the cheek, before slowly moving his way down. He softly placed small kisses as he moved down from her neck to her torso. His lips closed over one of her nipples and he suckled gently. Then his tongue rasped across the firm peak and a soft moaned escaped Applejack's lips. His hooves were everywhere, kneading and stroking her sides, her flank, her thighs. Then he released and dove.

"Ah!"

Applejack's back arched as she felt him part her with hooves, as she felt his tongue burrowing inside her. She stared blindly toward the ceiling while his tongue stroked and teased and licked and stabbed, while his hooves restlessly kneaded her thighs. She wrapped her legs around his head and seized a hooful of his mare, fairly grinding muzzle into her. The sensations from his lips and tongue, coupled with the fuzzy feeling of the alcohol, were putting her into ecstatic overdrive.

Then she felt his tongue brush her sensitive spot, felt him suck gently, drinking from the very center of her, and she was spun away into orgasm. Spun? No, was shoved, thrust into orgasm, and she forced herself to scream silently. Least she wake up Granny Smith.

"Oh g-golly!"

He reached up, found her waist, and pulled himself up to face her. Kissing her every inch of the way until his mouth was covering her again.

She's so beautiful she feels so good ah I can't I can't hold back I have to have her have to be inside her oh Applejack my darling my own oh oh oh...

Applejack froze. She was hearing thoughts, but they weren't mine. And it wasn't like he was taking over her brain, it was more like her was.... Eavesdropping. Since when could she read his mind? Anyone's mind? Could he hear her?

Mark? Can ya hear me? Can ya hear my thoughts right now?

Nothing. He kept kissing her and was now sucking her lower lip into his mouth. She reached for him, found his eager member, and rubbed it gently.

Now I have to take her touch her now have her now oh please don't let me hurt her don't let me ruin this moment oh Applejack my sweet country girl I'd die for you....

He pressing forward, feeling her lips part with ease as he slowly impaled himself into her, a long grown coming from her mouth. Her soft coat rubs against his belly as he thrust into her, hilting himself before pulling out to the tip and slamming home again.

"Ahh... Don't... Don't stop!"

Ah sweetheart as if I could....

With each thrust Applejack voices her pleasure to him, her hips grinding against him and sending him head long into cloud nine. Mark couldn't help but feel forceful and powerful, finally claiming the mare beneath him as his by more than just words, but conquest. Instinct took over as he snorted and reared back, speeding up his pace as her wet walls milked his member. Her marehood winked around him, her powerful muscles gripping and pulling him back in as she pants and grunts. Feeling her clit rub and bump against his shaft caused Applejack to squeal with every contraction, as she no longer cared how loud they were being anymore.

No oh no don't don't hurt her I'll hurt her ah ah AH AH Applejack YOU FEEL SO GOOD....

She locked legs behind his back, dug her hooves into his shoulder and shoved back at him. His mouth found hers again and he kissed her so hard it felt like he almost bit her lower lip.

Can't stop can't stop can't can't Applejack oh my sweet Applejack you make me feel so alive you feel like the best thing to ever happen to me ah AH AH

Mark grind against her, throwing his head back as his stallion instincts had complete control of his mind now. Applejack winnied with pleasure, as another orgasm was building inside her. A gentle gush of warm juices dripping down onto the bed from her previous one, as her marehood winked greedily around him. To anypony who walked into the bedroom it would have looked like they was battling ontop of the bed, surging and thrusting and writhing against each other.

MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE MORE

Applejack rocked as he slammed into her hard and fast, leaning in and fucking her with single minded intentsity. He was nearing his orgasm, and couldn't hold out anymore. She was fairing no better, as her sex fogged mind could no longer stop the tide of ecstasy about to wash over her. The buzz of being drunk, hearing him in her head, and the ferocity of him humping her finally pushed her over the edge. Applejack moaned with pleasure, biting her lower lip as she climaxed again and simply slumped on the bed, spent.

APPLEJACK! APPLEJACK! APPLEJACK!

She felt him shudder as he found his own release. Every part of his body tingled with pleasure as spurt after spurt of hot gooey cum poured into her. His horn flared up for a moment, as small bursts of magic exploded in the air above them. Looking like small little fireworks. He held her close to his chest, planting small kisses on her lips, and then he was relaxing and slowly slipping out of her. He felt smaller and softer to her, but still formidable.

Collapsing together onto the bed, both of then panted with exhaustion, but were satisfied beyond belief. Applejack couldn't hear Mark inside her head anymore, which made her a little sad. She might ask him about it later, but right now she was too tired to care about it.

Rolling over to face him, Applejack smiled. "Ya sure know how to please a mare! Tarnation..."

"I try, my lady." He simply replied.

He leaned in and gave her another soft kiss, and she kissed him back as they held each other. They stayed like that for a long time, as they slowly began to fall asleep.

I'm so glad I came to this party.
















BOOM

A thunderous noise tore Mark from sleep.

Light flared on his face as he struggled to regain awareness, like somepony had fashed his eyes with a flashlight. He opened his eyes and saw a jagged hole blasted through the door. Six shadowy figures rushed through the bedroom entrance, who's solid eyes glowed green in the darkness. As they approached the couple caught off guard on the bed, Applejack quickly noticed what they were.

"Changelings!" She screamed.

Their horns began to glow in union, pointing them at the couple threatening. "Up," the changelings ordered. Mark cautiously got to his feet, Applejack following after. His heart felt like it was about to explode in his chest. "Tie his hooves and bring him." One of them ordered the others.

As a changeling approached Mark, Applejack screamed and jumped on the insect-like ponies, biting and kicking furiously. Her hooves landed into their faces, drawing streams of blood on the cursing changelings. One of them charged their horn, firing a shoot of magic straight at her. Applejack yelled in pain before falling to the floor, unconscious.

Mark's eyes narrowed in anger as he charged up his horn, then planted his hooves, firing wild shoots across the room and roaring like a bear. The changelings threw themselves at him in an attempt to subdue him through sheer numbers, but to no avail. Applejack was in danger, and right now he was invincible. Chitin cracks beneath his blasts, as he continued to fire mercilessly. Three of them were wounded, and two of them fell and didn't move again.

The loud noise of there battle had roused the household, Mark dimly heard Big Mac and two mares shouting in the hall. The changelings hissed to one another, then used their magic to lift the unconscious Applejack off the floor, before they fled the room.

"Applejack!" Mark roared.

Summoning his energy, Mark bowled past the changeling corpses in the room to chase after the fleeing monsters. He stumbled into the hall and saw the changelings, just as they were beginning to descend below the open hallway window. Before the last one could slip out, Mark rushed it, catching it with both hooves. Using it's wings, the changeling spun around, grabbing both of Mark's arms in midair and hissed with delight, as it hovered outside window while Mark leaned from the inside.

"Yesss! You are the one we want!"

Mark tired to twist free, but the changeling did not budge. Freeing a hoof, Mark whaled the creature's head and shoulders, which thanks to his chitin, felt as hard as iron. Desperate and enraged, the changeling hissed into Mark's face, exposing his fangs only inches from his face.

Mark yelled and jammed his hooves against the sides of the window frame, struggling to free himself from the monstrosity, but the changeling inexorably drew him out of the house. He could see Applejack on the ground with the other changelings, still floating in their magic aura unconscious.

Just as Mark's knees buckled, Big Mac appeared by his side and wrapped an arm around his chest, locking him in place. "Somepony get me some rope!" shouted the red stallion. He snarled, veins bulging on his neck from the strain of holding Mark. "It'll take more than this varment ta best us!"

The changeling gave a final yank, then, when it failed to dislodge Mark, cocked its head and said, "You are oursss!" It lunged forward with blinding speed, and Mark howled as he felt the changeling's fangs close on his right wither, blood dripping from the fresh wound. His arms released his hold at the same time. With a malicious crackle, the changeling released him and buzzed down to join his brothers. They then took off into the night.

Big Mac and Mark sprawled against each other in the hallway. "They have Applejack," Mark groaned. His vision flickered and went black around the edges as he pushed himself upright on his left arm, his right one hung uselessly from the pain. Granny Smith and Fluttershy emerged from another room, their faces feeled with fear and concern. Mark shook his head to clear his vision, before staggering down the hall, only to finding his way blocked by Fluttershy.

She looked at him with wide eyes, then gently took her hooves and pushed him into a sitting position. "You have to get that wound looked at."

"But...."

"You'll pass out if this bleeding isn't stopped."

He looked down at his right side, it was drenched in crimson. "We have to rescue Applejack before..." he clenched his teeth as the pain surge, "before they do anything to her."

"He's right, we can't wait," Big Mac said, looming over them. "Patch 'em up as best ya can, then we'll go." Fluttershy pursed her lips and hurried to the bathroom's cabinets. She returned with the first aid kit, which she carefully wrapped bandages tightly around Mark's bitten wither. Meanwhile, Big Mac took the time to clean out Applejack's room, dragging the changelings corpses and flinging them through the hallway window. Granny Smith contented herself with just watching over tending to Mark's wound.

Once they was done, Granny Smith put a hoof on Mark's chest, and said, "Ya'll be careful."

"We'll be fine, Granny." Big Mac promised. She forced a smile as he gave him a quick hug.

Big Mac turned his head to look at Mark, who looked back at him with determination in his eyes. They both shared a quick nod, before they headed down the stairs. As they left the house and began running into the night, heading down the apple fields after the changelings.

Granny Smith and Fluttershy watched from the front porch, worry and concern on their muzzles. 
> Chapter 8: Ten Thousand Hooves
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The wind howled through the night, carrying the sound of thunderous buzzing with it. Hundreds of buzzing changeling wings hovered in the air, waiting for their scout unit to return from their important mission. The Queen had sent almost all of the hive out on this task, and failure was NOT an option. They all waited on the edge of the Everfree Forest, where the Apple family farm ended. The commander of the changeling army, the one the Queen trusted to see this through, blinked in surprise. They had been waiting for well over half an hour, and the troops were getting restless.

Then he got a message from the hive mind, and a wicked grin spread across his face.

"Spread out! Hide behind the trees and bushes. Stop whoever is coming.... Or die." He commanded icily.

Around him shuffled hundreds of changelings around him, eager to follow the order they were giving, least they were punished. All changelings shared the hive mind, so no secrets were kept and everything was exposed to their fellow bothers. So as soon as the scout unit gave their message, and the commander gave an order, they sprung into action. The creatures hurried into the brush, hissing as they hid. Soon the rustling quieted and the forest was silent again.

The changeling commander peered around a thick trees and looked up the trail. It was too dark for any ponies to see, but for them the faint moonlight was like sunlight streaming between the trees. Every detail was clear and sharp to his searching gaze. They remained unnaturally quiet, their black figures blended easily into the night. An owl screeched, cutting through the silence. No one relaxed until the bird flew past. Then some of the insect-like ponies shivered in the cold night, one snapped a twig under a hoof. The commander hissed in anger, and the changelings shrank back, motionless.

The commander forced back his impatience as the minutes slowly turned by, until almost another half an hour passed by. He did not let the others get up or warm themselves up. Even he denied himself those luxuries too, and stayed behind the tree, watching the trail. 

Get ready! He heard from the hive mind. We're coming in hot.

The commander's whole body was vibrating, the tip of his front hoof moved in small circles. It had taken careful planning and much pain to bring himself to this moment. It would not do to lose contol now, Queen Chrysalis wouldn't allow it.

Soon, dark figures emerged from the darkness and advanced down the trail. Four of the scout unit flew toward the ambush, their magical aura holding an unconscious mare, one of the bearers of the elements. As they came to edge of the forest, they landed on the ground, panting like crazy, while laying the mare carefully next to them. The commander soon stormed from his hiding place, a furious snarl on his muzzle.

"What is this? This isn't the pony we were after!" He yelled.

"We ran into complications." One of them spoke up. "We lost two just to get this mare."

The commander was about to voice his distaste, when another one squeaked, "It's the stallion's marefriend."

He paused for moment by this development, placing a hoof on his chin as he pondered on this. "And is no doubt on his way to rescue her as we speak." A wicked grin spread across his muzzle as he realized their plan hadn't failed. 

"Everling listen up! Here's what we're going to do...."








Mark and Big Mac ran through the apple fields, trying to catch up to the changelings that ran off with Applejack. Apple trees flew by them as they ran for all they were worth, following the changelings blood, scent and magic signature to track them. Mark sneered in pain, the bite wound on his wither was throbbing, and his blood felt it was on fire. But he couldn't stop now, he wouldn't. Applejack, the mare he had grown fond of, the one he had finally made his and had united with in the bonds of love, was taken away from him. Nothing would stop him from finding the ones responsible and making them pay for it.

Not even the princesses.

How dare these changelings! Come and steal my marefriend during our most intimate night?! I'm going to torture them slowly! First I'm going pull off their wings, then I'm going to cut off their horns. And when I snuff the life from their eyes, they will know not to mess with the Champion of Equestria!

Big Mac couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as he ran with the stallion next to him, the one his little sister chose as her special somepony. Here he was running at full speed to save her, despite the wound he suffered earlier. He really loves her. He thought with a smile. But as Big Mac took another look at him, he was shocked by what he saw. Mark's pupals were blood red, while the white in his eyes were turning a sickly green. But the strange change only lasted for a moment, before they quickly turned normal again.

"What is it?" Mark asked him, now giving him the curious look.

"Nothing." Big Mac replied, shaking his head for a second before returning his attention ahead. 

Both said nothing as they continued to follow the path, nearing the end of the apple orchard. Pushing himself to his limits, Mark galloped ahead of Big Mac as the slipped through the fields and down the valley towards the Everfree Forest. Every step was agony, yet it did not matter right now. Nothing mattered except Applejack. He stumbled once, but Big Mac wordlessly caught him, as they shared a nod before moving on.

Near the beginnings to the Everfree Forest, they spotted the changelings standing out in the open. Ten feet ahead of them, like an offering to the stallions, was the unconscious Applejack. Both them came to a sudden stop, looking at wonder while they panted for breathe. Mark studied the scene before them with suspicious eyes, as his past experience as a royal guard told him something wasn't right. I don't like this. If they're giving up, they look way too calm about it. And why is everything so quite?

Big Mac started to step forward to pick up his sister, but Mark placed a hoof on his chest, stopping him in his tracks. "Don't." Mark muttered. "It's a trap."

The changelings ahead of them began to tilt their heads, hissing with laughter as they looked at the stallions. Mark and Big Mac stiffened, their eyes flashing from side to side, as they readied themselves. At first nothing happened, but then a faint buzzing sound started to build behind the trees and the bushes. As the noise grew, the stallions eyes grew to the size of saucers, as many blue solid eyes became visible from the darkness of the forest. Forsaking their hiding spot, the changelings flew out and stood beside the remaining scout unit, baring their fangs and ready to strike.

"We have ta fight them?" Big Mac muttered, completely overwhelmed by the number of changelings.

Several green bolts of magic flashed from the changelings horns toward the stallions, illuminating the trees with a sickly light. But before the bolts could strike the stallions, Mark charged his own horn with magic. A shield of magic incased around them, protecting them from the changelings blasts. Once the smoke cleared, he brought the shield down, glaring at the bug ponies with pure anger. 

As the changelings started to advance toward them, a sneer spread across Mark's muzzle. He quickly picked Applejack up with his magic aura, bringing the unconscious mare to them, before gently placing her on Big Mac's back.

"Take her and get back to the farm as fast as you can!" Mark hollered over to him.

"But ya can't...."

The changelings were beginning to in circle them.

"No time to argue!  JUST GO!!"

The red stallion stared at Mark for a moment, seeing the determination in the grey unicorn's eyes. Big Mac gave him a quick nod before dashing off, carrying his younger sister on his back.

Before any of the changelings could even begin to change after him, Mark shot several magical bolts at them. Catching a few of them off guard, and stopping a few of them from taking off after Big Mac. The injured ones moaned in pain, while the rest hissed and circled Mark. 

"Don't worry about them! He is the one I want!" One changeling screamed, he was slightly bigger then the others.

Mark howled before charging the army of changelings head on, catching them off guard by this strange act. Most ponies would be scared of facing a changeling army, and the unicorns that would face them, chose to use their magic to stay at a distance. But this stallion was rushing right at them, before they even began their attack. This pony was different then most.

Mark scored a derect hit on a changeling's face, sending it spinning a few times before falling on the ground, out cold. He followed up with a gut punch on another one, making it fall to the ground, curling in a ball as it tried to breathe. But at this point, the other changelings were on guard, ready to take to the offensive. Several of them lashed out at the unicorn, throwing punches and aiming to bite their fangs into him. But Mark weaved and dodged their attacks, before returning their efforts with a few punches of his owns.

But the seer numbers of the changelings starting to overwhelm him, as another one would take the place of their falling comrades. Mark keeped up his attacks the best he could, but even in his raged induced state, even he realized the futility of his situation. Damn, I can't keep this up forever. There's just too many. He then hissed in pain as the bite wound throbbed. But I have to try! And hope I buy enough time for the oth... 

But before he could finish his thought, the changelings struck again, this time catching him off guard. Several landed soild blows on him, and one even managed to sink it's fangs into his right arm. Mark howled in pain before turning around to deliver a hard punch right between it's eyes, knocking it out cold. But before he could retaliate, he saw a row of them charging up their horns with magic, pointing them straight at him. 

"Oh shit."

Mark screamed in pain as the blasts hit him at full force, sending him flying a few yards before skidding to a halt on the ground. He moaned in pain as he tried to stay conscious, as his head was spinning and his whole body hurt all over. Shaking his head to clear the cob webs, he struggled to stand back up on wobbly legs. Their combined magic attack really put a hurting on him. He panted in pain while more changelings circled around him, ready to finish him off. He knew if he didn't do something quick, he was as good as dead.

"Quick, press the attack! Get to him before he can recover!" The changeling commander hissed.

Then a thought popped into his head, and he couldn't help but smirk as a plan began to form in his mind. Charging up his horn, Mark held the spell as the changelings began to draw closer to them. Once he was sure they were about to attack him, he released the spell. "Solar Flare!" He shouted. A flash of blinding light erupted from his horn, blinding all the unfortunate changelings who were surrounding him. He then used a quick teleportation spell to get several yards ahead of them, so he could plot his next move.

Ever since he became a pony, Mark has been able to cast magic, thanks to the Sombra cursed crystal he found on earth. As he learned more about magic thanks to the tutoring of Twilight Sparkle, he learned how to harness the hidden magic with in. After the Gala, and during his free time studying magic while working with the royal guard, did he become aware of the ranks in magic. Supposedly, magic had been ranked into five types, to help keep track of potential threats.

D Rank--- Everypony and most things in Equestria had magic, they just couldn't cast spells like unicorns could. This was where pegasi and earth ponies were ranked, as well as young unicorns who couldn't cast spells.

C Rank--- This is were most unicorns, such as Lyra or Rarity were ranked. They knew a few basic spells, such as levitate and illumination, but not much else. Using their magic for too long would wear them out.

B Rank--- Was were talented unicorns were ranked, as they could cast more spells longer without worrying about straining their magic. Unicorns who graduated from magic school, or skilled self taught ones such as Trixie fit here.

A Rank--- Where only the few gifted unicorns who had mastered magic or were stong with it ranked. Starswirl the Bearded, Starlight Glimmer, and Twilight before she became an alicorn, were some of the few who ever got this far.

S Rank--- The rarest of magic. Only creatures such as alicorns or Discord were ranked this high, as their power was impossible to measure. There were whispers of a rank higher then this, but the only counted record of it being true was when Twilight fought Tirek.

As a human, Mark would have been Rank F, as he didn't have an ounce of magic in his body. Once he was teleported to Equestria as a earth pony, he rose to Rank D, but in rare moments of danger, showed a power of magic that almost went up to Rank S. After spending some time in Ponyville, as well as learning magic from Twilight, he brought his magic skills between Rank C and B. As he could unleash powerful magic for short periods of time, but be drained afterword. And then the Gala happened, and he almost merged with Sombra.

He wasn't the most powerful unicorn, but he wasn't no pushover ether. A painful lesson these changelings were about to learn the hard way.

After catching the changelings off guard with a flash spell, and teleporting ahead of them so he was facing them, it was time to act. Charging up his horn with as much magic as he could, he prepared to unleash his ultimate attack. The changelings that weren't still effected by his "Solar Flare" attack, quickly spotted were he was and prepared to rush him before he could finish the spell. But by the time they flew into action, it was already too late.

"Let's see you dodge this... "

Pointing his horn at the hoard of changelings, Mark unleashed the spell. Suddenly, a massive stream of magic bolts flew right at them. Those that couldn't escape the attack were hit with wave after wave of energy blasts. But Mark wasn't finished yet, as he poured more and more magic into the spell, unleashing hell upon the changelings. Then, with one final push, he conjoined the attack into one massive blast. Changelings screamed as they were burned into ashes, even some of the Everfree Forest lit on fire as a result from such an attack.

Mark stood on wobbly legs, as that attack had took alot out of him. Once the smoke settled, he looked at what he had done. A large area of land was charred and smoldering, with burnt chitin corpses scattered inside it. Part of the forest was burnt from the attack, but thanks to the wildness of it's magic, it looked like the fires were dieing before they had a chance to spread. But as he looked around, he noticed that there were still more changelings surrounding him. LOTS more.

Mark's magic barrage had took out dozens of changelings, but that was only 1/5 of their numbers. As he looked around at the ones able to dodge his attack, he realized that there were in fact hundreds of them. He had barely made a dent in their numbers and he was already getting tired.

"Damn it..." He muttered under his panting breathe.

His vision was beginning to blurr and his muscles were starting to feel weak. I... Didn't think I used THAT much of my magic already. He thought as his mind felt like it was put in a dryer on 'spin' cycle. His bandage wither started to throb again, causing him to look at the wound. Blood was beginning to stain the bandage, and fresh blood dripped from his other bite wound he got while fighting the changelings. Then, a realization hit him as the pieces in his mind finally clicked into place.

Their bites. They are poisonous! Mark cursed at him self for not realizing that was why he was tiring out so quickly. This isn't good. At this rate, I'll be too weak to fight back.

At this point the changelings circled around Mark like a mob, blocking any chance of him to push through them. The commander stepped out of the crowd and examined their target. A satisfied smile appeared on his muzzle as he looked at the tired Mark, who was now favoring his wounds with a pained expression .

"You are one tough stallion." The changeling admitted. "You were able to hold your own for so long, despite being poisoned by our venom. No wonder the Queen wanted you so badly."

"Eat... A dick."

"But your time has run out. You will come with us one way or another." The changeling commander then pointed at Mark with one of his hooves as he icily ordered, "Sic him."

And then the changelings swarmed Mark.







Big Mac ran back to the farm as fast as hooves would take him. He wanted so badly to rush back there, and help Mark take on those varmints, but he couldn't. Getting Applejack back home save was his top priority now. Mark had jumped in blindly to face those things, to give them a chance to escape, and Big Mac was gonna honor that sacrifice. They had just broke through the orchard of apples, and could now see their family house in the distance. The lights were on in the house, and he could see a concerned Granny Smith and Fluttershy waiting on the porch.

"Your back!" Fluttershy exclaimed, excitedly. Both her and Granny rushed over to him just before he reached the porch steps.

"Ya had us worrying ta near death!" The old mare gripped to her grandson. She then spotted Applejack laying on his back, who was still out cold. "Is she alright?"

"Eeyep." Big Mac answered tiredly, too out of breathe to say much more.

"Let's get her on inside so's Ah can get a look at her." Granny said.

As the group started to help the red stallion carry Applejack inside, Fluttershy couldn't help but noticed one important detail. Mark was nowhere to be seen.

"Big Mac... Where's Mark?" Fluttershy softly asked, her blue eyes full of fear.

Big Mac said nothing. Instead, he calmly continued to carry his sister the house. Once inside, the two mares carefully pulled Applejack from his back, laying her on the couch in the living room. It was only then did he give them the answer as to Mark's absence.

"There were a horde of those varmints wanting for us near the Everfree Forest." He calmly explained. "Mark stayed ta fight them off while I got AJ back here."

Both mares looked at him shocked by what they both heard. Fluttershy put both hooves up to her mouth, muttering a small "Oh my." Granny just shook her head, a troubled look on her face.

"I gotta go back and help him." Big Mac declared.

"Oh no."

"Now wait just a dang gone minute..."

"He needs me Granny! I have to...."

"We NEED ya here, Macintosh." Granny protested, standing in front of him and jabbing a hoof into his chest. "What if those things come back? What if Applejack needs medical care?" The old mare's eyes began to water. "What if Ah never see ya again if ya go?"

Suddenly, Big Mac felt a gentle hoof land on his wither. He looked to see Fluttershy standing next to him. Her long pink mane was covering up part of her face, but he could see the tears rolling down her cheek. "Don't go." She softly spoke. Seeing that was the final straw. He couldn't abandoned his family right now, nor could he stand to see Fluttershy, the mare he spent such a magical night, scared like this.

Wrapping her in a loving embrace, Big Mac used his hoof to wipe away her tears before nuzzling her softly. "I won't leave ya. I'm staying right here." That earned a comfortable sigh from the yellow pegasus, who held him tightly.

Granny Smith gave him a warm smile, which he simply returned with a small nod. As much as he wanted to, he couldn't leave his family and mare alone again. He could only give a small sigh as his gaze turned to the window, his thoughts on the gray unicorn who risked everything to save his sister.

Ah hope ya'll be okay, Mark. Applejack will skin me alive if anything happens ta ya.






Wham!

"Uunnngh."

Thoom!

"Huurrcckk."

Crack!

"Aaaaahhhhhggghhhh!!!!"

Sounds of hooves landing on fur and flesh filled the now early morning, as well as Mark's painful screams. The changelings had now ganged up on him, overpowering him with seer numbers. And thanks to fatigue and the venom running in his vains, he was too weak to overcome such a number of foes. Punch after punch, blow after blow, to Mark it felt like ten thousand hooves were beaten on him at once. And with as many changelings he was facing right now, it might as well have been true.

After what felt like an eternity of him getting whaled on, the changelings then suddenly stopped their assault on him. But that was then followed up with several of them firing their magic right at him, sending him once again flying into the air from the force of the blast, before hitting the hard cold earth. The commander of the changelings raised a hoof up, ordering them to stop. They then waited to see what the stallion would do next, before pressing on.

Mark moaned in pain. Everything hurt. He could still feel the throbbing sores from ever blow that landed, could feel the blood run down from his nose and mouth, as well as the dulling pain from the venom in his system. He was beaten, he knew that. Even at his best, there was little chance that he could hold his own against hundreds of changelings like this. And these things planned this out perfectly.

Waiting until he was drunk and just layed down with his marefriend, attacking them in the dead of night. Kidnapping Applejack when the ambush failed, and using her to draw him out to their allies. Catching him off guard. And then the final nail in the coffin was that they had managed to bite him twice, feeling his system with their venom and sapping his strength. Now he was too weak to fight back, or even to defend himself.

He tried to stand up, to face his defeat head on, but his legs lacked any strenght to support his weight. Sending him sprawling back on the ground with a pained grunt. He was out of steam. Opening his weak eyes, he saw the changelings standing around him, ready to finish him off.

Looks like this is it for me. He thought with a sigh, closing his eyes to welcome his fate. But at least... Applejack is... Safe....








As conscious started slip away from Mark, flashes of memories played out in his mind like an old film reel. A few quick flashes of his childhood appeared, mostly of his time in 5th grade. How he was picked on continuously by the bully Mike and his small crew, Jeff and Matt. It was the worst time he ever had in all his years in school, as his was always picked on, his school work was suffering and his father was breathing down his neck. Wanting him to stand up to the bullies. It got so bad that he sign Mark up for karate class, to learn how to fight and defend himself, though he only keeped up on the lessons for about a year before quitting.

I understand why he did it. He just wanted me to learn how to stand up for myself.

Then more memories played out in his mind, though this time they seemed to be some of Sombra's. He was a young stallion now, focusing all his time detected to learning all the magic he could. Closing himself off from the few friends he had, not bothering to separate his time from his studies. His former teacher would visit him often, pleading that he would quit studying and spend some time to relax. But Sombra would hear none of it, continuing to dive further in studies, and even refusing to see his former teacher after that.

If only Sombra would have listen to him. Things would have been so different then.

More and more memories continued to flash through his mind, becoming almost too fast to keep track with. His memories and Sombra's becoming mixed in the chaos, making it hard to tell the difference between them. All of their victories, all of their failings, land open on display to him. Him living a simple but filling life, learning morals from his parents and trying to be the best he could. Sombra grew up lonely after his parents died, so he focused on studying as much as he could, to make something of himself. To honor his parents memories. The similarity between the two struck a cord with him, as he realized that they were both the same at one point. Both wanting to do the best they could to make those closest to them proud, while at the same time trying to proof themselves.

To be the best.

He was starting to get a headache at this point, which wasn't uncommon since he did just lose to fighting a horde of changelings. The fact that he was unconscious and could feel pain proved that they didn't kill him yet. But why was that? He then he noticed that several times they pointed out that they wanted him, but he couldn't understand why. 

Was it cause he was once a human? Couldn't be, since only the princesses and his close friends knew that. Was it because of the powerful magic he once used at the Gala? Possibly. But most of that untapped power died down, but he was still a powerful unicorn. He tried to think deeply in it, but the headache intensify. How could he concentrate when his head was throbbing like a fucking rotten tooth?

But you don't need to think right now.

It was so damn hard to concentrate.

You don't need to think when in the heat of combat.

He could feel something building inside him, like a building fire deep inside him.

You are a skilled unicorn.

He could feel a familiar ball of energy deep inside, one he hadn't felt since the Gala. But the energy felt different, like it had changed just as he has.

A king.

Could he tap into this well of power, and use it to defeat these changelings? But with everything that happened to him lately, could he trust this power? When he didn't know how to control magic, this was the power of magic he tapped into to help his friends. But as cool as it was to pull off anime moves, finding out that the power's was Sombra was troubling.

But it is nothing to worry about. In fact, you need not worry about a thing. Not one thing. You since mastered the ability to use magic, and have become a skilled unicorn to rival even the most skilled spellcaster. So using the vast well of Sombra's powers should be child's play to you at this point. After all, Sombra is part of you now. 

And while the changelings might be a problem, they are nothing you can't handle. What you should really handle is Applejack, because while she is wonderful in bed, her and friends are going to come in pretty handy, so you should stay on their good side.

Also, why are you wasting your time with those princesses? For crying out loud. Their supposed to be the most powerful in all of Equestria, yet they send others to handle all their problems. At least Twilight isn't afraid to get her hooves dirty.

Hmmm. For an evil sounding voice in my head, it sure was making a lot of sense.

So just do your job.... Be the boss, do things your way, and rip the throat out of anypony who forgets how powerful you truly are!

You know, I was letting things slide a little. After all, I was the Champion of Equestria now. One of the most powerful stallions to ever live! Hell, I was able to kill a black dragon, a dragon, when nopony else could. I had nothing to worry about. So what if Sombra slightly merged with me? He was a powerful king once,  and now all of his power is all mine. And I'm going to show these damn bugs who they was fucking with!





As the changelings started to close in on the unconscious unicorn, the commander flashed his fangs with a  wide grin. Queen Chrysalis would be pleased with their results. The mission was a success, even despite the losses the suffered to bring this stallion in. Maybe she would reward him for this, perhaps a rise in rank or allowed to drink his fill in love from the pod chambers. Just as he was savioring the victory, two changelings reached down to pick up the grey unicorn.

And then everything cumbled right before his eyes.

Mark's eyes snapped open as the two changelings started picking him up by his arms, a viscous sneer on his muzzle. Before they could react, Mark sent them flying into the air with two powerful magical blasts, straight from his hooves. That caused all the changelings to freeze in shock, as they have NEVER seen a unicorn use magic without their horns. Mark faced the changelings with pure determination, as his pupals turned red and the white in his eyes started to glow green.

"Kaioken!!!"

A sudden burst of firey red magic covered his body, refueling him with energy and a will to push on. He still felt the numbing pain of his wounds, but it didn't matter to him right now. No. The only thing that mattered at the moment was taking out as many of the changelings as possible. And he wanted to start off big. Putting his hooves together, he began to charging up for one his favorite attacks.

"Ka-Me-Ha-Me.... Haaaa!!!!"

Shooting the energy wave straight at them, caught the changelings off guard, before they could react to the attack. The sound of the screaming changelings caught in the blast was drowned out by the roar of the attack. Mark just grinned wickedly at the sight, pleased that he took out many of them with the attack. When the attack was finished, and the smoke was clearing, he was tickled to see he had made a huge dent in the horde.

The changelings were frozen in fear, amazed at the sudden burst of energy from their target. Who was beaten and unconscious just moments ago. They looked around at each other, unsure at what to do next. Then they heard the orders of their commander, snapping them out of their fright.

"Don't just stand their you fools! Get him! That type of attack will wear him out."

"You think that's the limit of my power?" Mark laughed, hearing the changeling barking orders. "That was just child's play compared to my other skills. Allow me to show you TRUE POWER!!!

Flowing his magic into horn, he burst out with wicked laughter as he prepared to unleash his wrath. Suddenly, the ground rumbled as crystals burst from out around the changelings, surrounding them. Other crystals came out, hovering above Mark like shiny crystal spears, ready to strike.

"Quick, scatter!" Changeling commander shouted. 

With blinding speeds, the crystals flew straight at the changelings, just as they started flying into the air. Most of them was able to escape the attack, but a few unfortunate ones weren't so lucky. The changelings cringed as they heard the sickening sound of chitin crunching, knowing they're brothers didn't survived. And through it all, Mark laughed wickedly.

"That will teach you worthless insects not to fuck with me! I'm one of most powerful unicorns in all of Equestria. I was knighted a Champion, I defeated a black dragon. I'm friends of the bearers of the elements and princesses, and you have the gall to attack me?! Suddenly, the magical aura died around Mark and his eyes returned to normal. "I'll show you not mess with me or to hurt my friends. When I'm done with you, you'll never... Why can't I feel my everything.....

Mark fell to the ground with a loud THUD, unable to continue. The sudden burst of power wore off, and his injuries as well as the venom in his system finally caught up with him. He was beaten.

The changelings hovered in the air for a few unspoken minutes, unsure what to do next. They were afraid that this unicorn would attack again, just like he did the first time they thought he was beaten. But minutes ticked by, and nothing happened. Finally, the commander flew forward, determined to see this mission through to the end.

"You three," He pointed at a few random underlings. "Make sure he is beaten this time."

The three changelings flew down cautiously near the fallen stallion, scared of what might happen if they got too close. Taking precaution, they fired up their horns, shooting light magic bolt at the pony. With just enough force to render him unconscious incase he was faking. But when the blasts hit him, his body reacted by moving and shaking by the force, but he didn't stir. He remained motionless. Relieved by this discovery, they moved in to finally collect their prize.

While this went on, the changeling commander looked around at his surroundings, taking in the destruction under the last moments of the night sky. A small section of the Everfree Forest was burnt, with a huge scortch area infront of it. There was a huge circle of crystals encircling around like a prison. And corpses, changeling corpses everywhere. When they started this mission, he started with several hundred underlings at his command. Now there was only a few hundred left.

At first, he was eager to please his Queen by completing this task, to prove himself a capable commander. But now, after witnessing the power this pony had, he was worried about the safety of the hive. How did Queen Chrysalis plan to control such as him? "I hope she knows what she's doing." he muttered under his breathe.











Applejack was first aware of the creaking, back and forth, back and forth. The persistent sound made her open her eyes and stare at the ceiling. A soft blanket was draped over her, concealing her usual nakedness. She was back in her home, in the front room, laying on the coach. Beside her, sitting on her favorite rocking chair, was Granny Smith. Her head lolled, eyes closed. A pair of knitting needles and a ball of wool thread rested in her lap.

Though Applejack felt drained of willpower, she made herself sit up. That helped to clear her mind. She sifted through her memories of the last few hours. What happened? My head hurts like crazy. Her head throbbed from the small hangover she had, plus the attack she suffered earlier. Then things clicked in her head. Mark! What happened while I was out? Is he okay?

Granny Smith stirred and opened her sparkling eyes. "Oh," she said. "You're awake. Good!" Her voice was rich and warn. "How do ya feel?"

"Well enough. Where's Mark?"

There was a long delay as Granny Smith examined her hooves. 

"Granny?"

She sighed before facing her granddaughter. "I'm sorry, youngin. He's been taken."