> Gods and their games
>  by styx
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Starting with a Bang
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	This day started off so well, I went into work finished all of my paperwork before the deadlines and left early. With that free time I figured I would go shooting. That was the best part about living so far away from the city, my backyard was a range. I put on my tactical vest loaded it full of mags and went out the back door. The M4 hasn't been used in a while so I went with that.

But there wasn't a single time I went shooting without my absolute favorite piece, a five hundred magnum. The speed loaders were in a few pockets along with my knife. Never knew when you would need a good knife. Part of the way to my makeshift range there was a burning on my chest. When it started to get bad I panicked a bit. I was to young to have a fucking heart attack.

That thought didn't stop the burning, it eventually got to the point where I couldn't even move anymore. My skin under the vest was smoking but not catching fire. Suffice it to say, it didn't tickle. When I collapsed a god damn circle with little runes burned into the ground. I had no idea what to think of that.

Suddenly the whole thing flashed and blinded me. The feeling my body went through is pretty hard to describe but I'll try anyway. The best comparison would be having your body squeezed through an extremely narrow tube that had a lot of twists and turns. By the time the light started to fade I could hear two women arguing.

“Luna! What kind of summon is that?! I thought you said this would be a powerful creature that could take down the minotaur champion!”

“I thought it would be! It was supposed to be a powerful demon!”

“Really! A demon! You know how risky that is Luna!”

“This summon is very binding Celestia, the creature risks extreme anguish if a command is disobeyed.”

That is when I found myself looking at two armored horses. Their manes flowed and they could fucking talk... cool I guess? I stood on my shaking feet when the blue one spoke at me.

“Creature what are your combat capabilities?”

She looked at me, probably expecting me to say something. After taking too long to answer she lit up her horn. “I said speak beast!”

The burning was back, it brought me to my knees while I screamed in agony. When it finally subsided I was gasping for breath.

“If you fail to answer me again I will not hesitate to banish the summons and trust me creature that would not end well for you.”

Fucking bitch! Ripped me from my home and now expects me to fight for them. Some bullshit if I've ever heard it. Still I like existing so best to answer her.

“I uh, can kill stuff pretty good?” Elegant as ever.

She stared at me with the most blank look I've ever seen. Probably wondered why her 'demon' sounded like a confused idiot.

“That is... good.” She turned to the other horse. “Sister do you think we should risk it or try again?”

The other one started to look me over, scanning me from head to toe. “Creature what are you and your weapons able to do against an opponent immune to magic and resistant to physical damage?”

“Uhm, well the magic thing won't be an issue but how resistant to physical damage?”

“He is a large minotaur with thick steel armor and wields an axe with fire runes carved into it.”

“That should be pretty easy, I guess. So if I do this do I get to leave?”

The blue one butted back into the conversation.

“We shall see about releasing you from your contract once you have completed this task.”

She along with her sister led the way out of the tent we were currently in. Upon leaving the stench of death immediately hit me. Corpses littered the battlefield both horse and minotaur. Looking at the two armies standing only a few hundred feet from one another this looked grim. We marched up to the horses side and stood in the center. Across the way there where two minotaur that stood out. One looked to be in decorative armor while the other was obviously my opponent since the giant flaming axe gave that away.

“So why aren't these two armies clashing right now?”

The white one spoke up. “We made a deal, if our champion emerges victorious then they surrender. If their champion wins we surrender.”

“Well don't worry this should be over quickly.”

With that I marched toward the center. The opponent started to come my way.

“Ha! This is the best these ponies had to offer! Some scrawny hairless ape! This won't even be fun.”

“Wouldn't bet on it since you'll be the one dying today, you fuckin cow.”

“Insolent ape! Your death will be a painful one!” He stopped walking and flashed an maniac grin. He was around twenty feet away.

“Here I'll even let you have the first hit! A weak being such as you won't even be able to put a scratch on me.”

He swung his arms out wide like he was ready to be crucified, how fitting. His armor was just a breastplate with runes in it. Those are probably what made him immune to magic. His arms, legs, and head were bare. He said he was going to make this painful for me, only fair to return the favor. I slung my rifle and got the magnum.

“How do you expect to do any damage with such a pathetic weapon? It is small and doesn't even have a blade!”

I couldn't help but smile as I took aim at his right kneecap. With a simple twitch of the finger a crack tore into the sky. The beast wailed as he fell to one knee. He looked at me with absolute rage and I let the second shot go. It ripped through his left thigh, another scream and he was sprawled out on the ground. He had dropped his axe and it was out of his reach.

I started to slowly walk towards him with a grin still plastered on my face. His rage had quickly turned to terror as he started to crawl away. Not wanting him to get far I ran and got onto his back. I somehow closed the distance in the blink of an eye. My legs had a strange tingling feeling about them, this place was getting cooler by the second.

The minotaur looked up at me with fear in his eyes. “What the hell are you?!”

I saw the perfect opportunity to strike fear into the hearts of all the creatures here. I slowly looked up at each side of the battlefield. The minotaur side was staring at me in abject horror. With the ponies (not horses) looking on with awe. I raised the hand with the magnum and screamed as loud as I could.

“I have been called many things throughout the eons! Bringer of ruin, monster, abomination!” I let out the best maniac laugh I could.

“But my favorite! Is The Grim! Now bear witness how easily your champion falls before me!”

I leveled my magnum at the minotaurs head. He was actually crying in fear. I smiled one last time. “I'll be seeing you in hell little one.”

“NO! No! Please!”

The third and final shot echoed across the battlefield. After taking in the sight of what was left of the champions head I looked up to address the general.

“Best to run now child before my masters decide to let me off of my leash.”

For the general of an army he didn't have much composure. Looked about ready to piss himself, wait... I think he did, a few others too. He turned and barked some orders and the troops bid a hasty retreat. After they were well on their way I turned to go back to the ponies. Holstering my magnum as I went.

The two leader ponies tensed up when I approached, I stopped a good five feet in front of them. Looking now, they seem to be a bit taller than the other ponies. They also had wings and horns, while the rest of the ponies had one, the other, or neither.

“So I don't think we ever got pleasantries out of the way, as you heard I am The Grim. Grim for short, now what are your names?”

Both still looked apprehensive and glanced at one another. The blue one was the first to speak up.

“I am Princess of the Night, Luna.” She looked over to her sister.

“I am Princess of the Sun Celestia.”

“Well Luna, my first question will go to you. How and why the fuck did you summon me of all people to this hellhole?”

She looked shocked for a moment before anger flashed in her eyes. Celestia put a hoof on her shoulder and she calmed down.

“To answer your questions creature, I used a magic circle to summon you and we needed a powerful champion to best the minotaurs. As our magic would not work on him, the runes in that armor are extremely ancient, and would have cancelled out any magic.”

“Well thank you for that, now would you kindly send me back home?”

“I'm afraid I won't be able to do that. The circle I used is special. It brings a random demon into this world and the only options from that point are to dispel the demon, break the contract and let the demon roam, or continue the contract. There is no way to send you back unless there is someone in your world with the ability to summon and has your exact circle.”

I looked at the Princess in front of me. She just said there was no way back for me. No way home... I couldn't help but laugh. I would never see my brothers again, fuck. I couldn't help but keep laughing. Just keep it up, laugh the pain away, if it's a joke it won't hurt. No matter how cruel the joke it can only be that right? I'm fuckin tripping that's it! Yeah! I must have taken acid or something. No way I was trapped in a talking pony world, without anyone else, alone...

I realized that the Princesses were looking at me weird, was that, pity? While studying them I finally noticed the tears, how long had they been flowing? Luna stepped forward, steeling her gaze as she did so. Right can't be weak now have to stay strong. There will be time for anguish later.

“Grim, I can't in my right mind release the contract now. If you wish to earn your freedom you can come with us. Prove yourself trustworthy and you will be rid of the mark that binds you.”

Celestia stepped up next to her sister concern etched across her features. “Sister are you sure this is wise? If you are not there to control him he could become extremely dangerous.”

“Do not worry sister I will be sure to keep an eye on him.”

“Yeah Celestia don't worry, I promise I'll behave.” She narrowed her eyes at that one. I couldn't help but smile at that.

“I suggest against angering my sister and I Grim. Remember we still hold your fate in our hooves.”

“Sorry, meant nothing by it. Just trying to assure you both I'll be on my best behavior.”

“Good then lets be off to the chariots. The troops will see to the clean up.”

As the two started to trot off I followed quickly behind. As we walked on a question came to the forefront of my mind.

“So where exactly are we going?”

“To our Everfree Castle.” Luna answered again, Celestia must not like me or something since she hasn't said more than a few words. 

As we approached a very ornate black and silver chariot I got a look at who was pulling it. There were two ponies with dark fur and bat wings. When they looked at us one smiled and I could swear he had fangs. So a chariot pulled by vampire ponies... that's awesome.
> Blood Bonds
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	As it turns out, the princesses are total assholes. The moment we arrived at their castle they had guards immediately confiscate my weapons and vest. To add insult to injury their highnesses threw me into a dungeon cell to boot. Sitting here I have still yet to find a reason to do so. They have my balls in a vice with this stupid circle on my chest.

Speaking of which if it wasn't the key to putting me in unbearable pain it would be a pretty cool looking tattoo. Seeing as it isn't... the circle just sucks at the moment. Letting a sigh escape I look around the cell I'm in. The only thing in here seems to be a pile of hay. Not totally sure what they expect me to do with it. Since they're ponies do they expect me to eat it? No that doesn't make any sense; it's probably supposed to be makeshift bedding. How kind of my captors to provide such exquisite accommodations. Although, the strangely solid shadows in the corner are slightly off putting. Wait, shadows aren't solid and they don't move like that.

Staring at the shifting mass the moon princess begins to step out of it. Of course she would have freaky shadow magic, I mean why not? After she is completely through the shadows snap back to a more normal placement. This whole time she never took her eyes off of me. In all honesty that was just a little weird. Reminded me of some socially awkward high schooler.

“Step beside me creature, I will be taking you to the night guard practice fields.” She said with authority. 

I raised an eyebrow as I stood. “Planning on using me as a training dummy? I was hoping for a little more gratitude for killing that Minotaur.”

“Not quite, we need to assess how you do in unarmed combat.”

“I'll come along but no promises as to how well I'll do.”

Her horn gave off a light blue aura; shadows pooled beneath us as we started to sink. I started to panic a little bit and Luna seemed to take notice.

“Stand still and relax creature, this will take us directly there.” She showed a slight smile when I calmed down.

“Here I thought you were a mighty warrior, yet you seem only like a scared pup.”

“I have yet to make a single claim to be mighty or a warrior.” She fixed me with a neutral gaze as we sank the rest of the way through the portal. The black void that greeted us was odd to say the least. There was no light nor sound. It felt as if my other senses were dulled too. In a moments notice we popped up on the training field.

There were a few vampire ponies milling about. Most were waiting in a large group by a sparring circle. A small stone wall surrounded the entire ring that was around a foot high. Probably just marking the outside boundaries. Princess Luna trotted towards the group and I followed closely behind.

When we stood before the collected vampire ponies Luna adopted the regal tone she seemed to use while in command. “My thestral subjects, this is Grim. He is the warrior my sister and I summoned for the battle with the Minotaur. As you can see he is currently disarmed; I need three volunteers to step forward to engage him in hoof to hoof combat.”

“Hold up three on one? That hardly seems fair.” In all honesty I've only been in a few fist fights my entire life. Being outnumbered did not sit well with me.

“If my suspicions about your magic are correct then you are right. It will not be a fair fight for them.”

I felt a scowl spread across my face, “You know that isn't what I meant.”

There was the faintest glimmer of a smirk on her muzzle. “I can assure you I haven't a clue what you are talking about. Now get in the ring, it looks like your opponents are ready.”

I looked to the ring and sure enough there were three thestrals huddled in a group, probably discussing strategy. At least they weren't vampires like I had originally thought, that's probably a plus.

As I stepped into the ring all three of them turned to face me and dropped low in fighting stances. With a heavy sigh I took one as well. Without any real training in the area all I knew was be ready to punch at all times and have a solid stance.

The team of three rushed me. One of them taking to the air as the other two came at me from the sides. I tried my best not to panic and be ready to dodge. When the group started to close in I rushed the middle and the flying thesral shot towards me with his hooves outstretched. At the last possible moment I slid under him, barely missing a hoof to the skull. When I was completely under him I kicked up with both legs and landed a hit square in the chest.

The bat pony let out a gasp as he tumbled head over heal, it sounded like something had cracked. The other two that were on my sides turned and charged with renewed vigor. I waited for them to close in. I had thought they were just charging to tackle me down, instead they planted their fore hooves in the dirt. The forward momentum and pivot point spun each around. The left pony bucked low while the other bucked high.
Caught by surprise I only had a moment to roll to my right. The late reaction cost me a buck to my shoulder. I corkscrewed throught the air, landing with a thud on the ground. There was no way these ponies would best me. The pain in my shoulder kept me focused on the task at hand. I got up and turned to see they were almost upon me again. The thesrals didn't seem to be expecting another charge from me after the last blow, so that's exactly what I did.

Closing the distance to the leftmost pony first she tried the same pivot trick. I pushed myself towards her spinning legs and grabbed them as they were pulled back. The next step was planed firmly in the ground as I spun with the pony in tow. She let out a yelp when I released her at the other thestral. The two slammed together and tumbled back. Now I was never one to fight fair, kicking someone while they were down was totally acceptable in my eyes, so that's exactly what I did. Sprinting over I caught the female thestal in the jaw. The other looked on in disbelief for a moment too long and I delivered a knockout blow to him as well.

Looking down at the two I noticed something rather odd... I felt absolutely no remorse for beating them into the ground. I never even knew them before now and they were only following orders. So why did it feel so right? The few times I've fought the assholes undoubtedly deserved their fate. These two, didn't do anything wrong. I was stirred from my mental questioning by a low 'hmph' to my side. Looking I saw the night princess standing there. She had a mischievous glint in her eyes that didn't quite sit well with me.

“I guess these three were not enough to confirm my suspicions. Seems like I need to take a more, drastic approach.” She paused to address the group of thestrals giving me hate filled glares.

“Captain Wolfsbane, would you mind a little sparring match with our guest. He seems to need a bigger push than a normal soldier can provide.”

A mare stepped out of the crowd. At first glance she seemed to look the same as all of the rest... until you took a closer look. The other soldiers had cat like eyes, probably to help see in the dark. Her eyes, were intimidating to say the least. They looked normal with two exceptions; one, they were the deepest shade of crimson I had ever seen. The second was they looked dead, like the eyes belonged on a corpse. Then there were the fangs, the others had a pair where a normal humans canines would be. Instead, her whole mouth was filled to the brim with the razor sharp teeth. All of these things pointed to one conclusion, this was an actual vampire pony. All of the other soldiers were a poor imitation, made to look menacing while she WAS menacing. With no doubt the worst part is I am about to fight her. Fuck me with a hot iron poker.

“It is a pleasure to meet the one who bested the Minotaur champion. I'm honored, really.”

Her tone was icy, probably because I literally kicked her troops while they were down. That or being a walking corpse just made your voice that way, maybe both. I dropped back into my stance and stared her down.

“Lets just get this over with I'm already sick of today.”

She burst into a wide smile, showing off her imposing maw in all of its morbid glory. “Eager are you? Then I am oh so sorry to have kept you waiting.”

Suddenly she was in the air and almost on top of me. Sidestepping just in the nick of time saved me from her hind hooves landing a blow. In a flash she landed and immediately rushed with her fore hooves instead. The resulting hit knocked all the wind out of my lungs and probably broke the majority of my ribs. I flew back, skidded, and struck the wall. All of the soldiers were in hysterics, laughing at my weakness, my pain. Fucking pricks thinking they're so high and mighty. Well I'll show them how weak they are. How insignificant their captain is and when I find out how to break free of this god forsaken circle their ruler as well. All I need to do is stand up and keep fighting, that's right. Better to die on your feet than to live on your knees.

I could feel my heart pumping as I stood, the blood searing through my veins. Locking eyes with Wolfsbane I saw something odd. She was giving me the most quizzical look before exploding in mirth. Her laugh sounded like a poor imitation of a banshees wails. When she opened her eyes to look at me they were pitch black, and her smile seemed to split her face in two.

“So that's it! You have blood magic! That is why the princess has kept you here. I'm sure she wouldn't mind letting me have a taste! Even just a little!”

While her giddiness was slightly unsettling I took a moment to look at myself. All of my veins were glowing red, with my heart shining like a beacon through my chest. My ribs seemed to have mended themselves as well. Looking back at the captain shadows were swirling around her. Tendrils emerged from the ground and started to hold me in place. I struggled for a moment to no avail.

Something occurred to me in that brief panic, I had magic now. That thought calmed me for a moment. Then I focused on the new feeling flowing through me. I had no clue what to do when I found it, my impulse was to push it out of my body. In doing so I released a burst of pressure all around me and the tendrils dissipated. Wolfsbane was still on the other side of the ring and was all the more giddy at my escape.

“Oh I just love it when they have the courage to fight back. It makes the taste all the more rewarding.”

Apparently ready for her snack she took to the air, I noticed that this time I could see her much more clearly than before. Feeling the power coursing through me I took off in a dead sprint, intending to meet her head on. As we neared one another she opened her maw impossibly wide, ready to take a chunk out of me. I jumped when I got close enough, the extra strength pushing me over Wolfsbane. She realized what was happening a second too late as my foot slammed down on top of her head. When I landed her head was partially buried. Shadow tendrils were whipping to and fro as the furious captain pulled her head free. She glared at me with what can only be described as undiluted rage.

“I will suck the marrow from your bones pest!”

Wolfsbane looked ready to rip me in half when she abruptly stopped. The shadow tendrils all wrapped around the furious pony. She struggled against them with little results before stopping. Princess Luna casually strolled over to her and fixed a gaze at the fuming captain.

“I've seen all that I wanted to see. I need you to calm down and resume your regular duties captain.”

The mare deflated at the command but nonetheless nodded in agreement. The shadows that bound her all faded along with the spell. Luna turned to me and started to trot towards the palace.

“Come along Grim, we have much to discuss.”

I cast a quick glance at the downtrodden captain, “Wolfsbane.”

She stopped and turned towards me. Her disapproving glare reverted back to crimson as she attempted to stare a hole through me. “When I get a better handle on my magic we should have another match. It got my blood pumping in all the right ways.”

I saw a fraction of a smirk come across her muzzle before she trotted off. I hurried to catch up to Luna. “You do realize that she would have killed you if I didn't intervene?”

I let out a bark of a laugh and glanced over at her. “I am fully aware of that. It doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy the fight itself. If I were more powerful then we could fight on even ground. Now that does raise the question, how did you stop her with such little effort?”

The princess let out a light hearted chuckle at that. “Did you think that I was weak?”

“Well you did summon me to fight for you so I kind of assumed.”

“You know what they say about assuming don't you?” A coy grin stayed on her muzzle as I gave her a deadpan stare.

“Well to answer your question, I and my sister are the only two alicorns in existence. We are both masters of magic in our own domains as well as immensely powerful. Our enemies do not know the full extent of our power. This keeps most in check, for this reason we could not have fought in front of the Minotaur general without losing one of our greatest defenses.”

“So what I'm hearing is I now serve an immortal god-ruler of the most powerful country on the planet.”

“We are not immortal, only ageless. We are still flesh and blood like other ponies.”

“Is that how your subjects view you then?”

The princess cast her head down to let out a sigh as we entered the stone castle. “Sadly they do not. They view us as godesses, divine rulers to be worshiped. The only company we have is each other.” We walked through the halls as the with a defening silence hanging in the air. Luna stopped as she entered into a room. Looking around it was a library full of dusty tomes. Some of which seemed to have not been touched in decades.

“This is where we part for the evening Grim. I want you to read over the material we have concerning blood magic and runes. This will hopefully give you some insight on your abilities. It may even help you discover your specific style of magic.”

She turned to leave me alone with all the books when something wormed its way into my mind. “Just a moment please.”

She turned with a slight frown on her face. “What is it? I need to attend to my royal duties.”

I took a few steps forward and wrapped my arms around her neck. She tensed for a moment and I had the impression that I made a grave mistake. After a moment she realized it was a hug and didn't know what to think of it. After awkwardly standing there for a second she wrapped a leg around my back.

“I won't pretend to know exactly how you feel Luna. I will say with the utmost certainty that you can call me a friend. Sometimes that's all we really need to feel better, a friend.”

I let go and gave her a genuine smile. “Best get to studying then, have a good night Luna.”

Her features had softened and it donned on me how gentle her smile was. It expressed joy like it belonged on a long lost friend. 

“I wish you a good night as well.”
> A Mere Outer God
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	I woke at the sound of a bang and reached to my back for a rifle that wasn't there. The brief moment of panic passed when I saw Celestia standing in front of a closed door with a cheeky grin. She made her way over to my table with its assortment of tomes. The studying last night had been interesting to say the least. Runes were basically symbols in some archaic language that represented different words. When magic is channeled into them they can activate and produce a desired effect. One of the more simple ones that I was able to study before knocking out was a basic fire rune that varied in intensity depending on how much magic one poured into it.

Thinking on that now, it would probably be a safe bet that the sun princess knew a thing or two about fire runes. “Hey Celestia, you know anything about fire runes?”

Her grin got slightly bigger at that. I don't know what that would mean though. The only possibilities are that she was interested in my topic of study or was happy someone had the balls to address her without the title. Actually, come to think of it both she and Luna showed slight signs of gratitude when I did... Maybe they just want another friend besides each other. No friend worth having cares about a title.

“Anon are you with me?” She said, waving a hoof in front of my eyes.

“Shit, sorry I was just thinking. What did you say?”

She rolled her eyes, “I said, of course I do. Being Lady of the Sun comes with a natural affinity for fire and light magic.”

I couldn't help but smile. “Then would you happen to know a more efficient version of the basic fire rune?”

“As it so happens, I do. Were you planning on this being the first in your newfound repertoire of spells?”

“Yes, it would be a great combination with melee weapons and a good natural defense mechanism. Which brings me to where I want them. One on the palm of each hand would work best for me. It would seem the best placement to augment weapons.”

“I believe I could do that for you. Before I do so there is one thing I must tell you. Runes put onto ones self will always be painful and are permanent. Are you absolutely positive that these runes will serve you well?”

“Of course I'm positive, flamethrower hands will most certainly be useful, and awesome.” On the off chance they aren't I could always get more runes.

“So be it, prepare yourself.” That was all the warning I got before a searing pain shot through my hands. Like someone had taken a red hot iron poker and impaled my palms. When the pain subsided and left a dull ache behind. I couldn't help but think, Celestia was the type of chick who volunteered to pull the arrow from your ass and went on two instead of three. Bitch.

Looking at the newly branded runes on my palms I couldn't help but stare quizzically at them. Taking interest in my befuddlement Celestia walked over. When she looked at the runes she let out a 'hmph,' apparently just as confused as me. To explain, the runes on my palms were nothing like anything in the book I had been reading.

“That doesn't look like ancient equish to me. Do you know this language Grim?”

“Yes actually, it looks like old latin to me. The triangle is a symbol for fire, surrounding it is the word 'salamander.' Although, I haven't the slightest idea why it would show up in a dead language from my world.” Thinking on the whole language thing it was a wonder how I was able to communicate in an entirely different world from mine. 

“That reminds me, how come I'm able to understand and read your language? It doesn't look any different from english to me.”

“The summoning spell that Luna used had many, many layers to it. One of which being a complex translator. Allowing you to not only hear us in your native tongue but speak it as well. Along with that the spell translates written words for you too.”

“So I've been speaking...”

“Equish”

“Equish this entire time?”

“Yes, albeit with an odd accent, but equish none the less.”

I tapped my chin in thought at this newfound ability to speak any language. “That is fuckin balla.”

Celestia raised an eyebrow at that before responding with a simple “what?”

“What I'm sayin playa, is that shit is wack and totally off the chain yo.”

All I got in the way of a response was a deadpan stare. I couldn't keep it together after that and burst out laughing. I just confused a demigoddess, after stowing that one for my memories I managed to compose myself. She was just looking at me like a teacher who heard a great yet inappropriate joke in class and tried not to lose it.

“If you're done I actually did come here with a purpose other than to wake you up.”

“Oh? Well as your faithful puppet for the time being I'm obligated to listen.” With that little comment all traces of amusement vanished from her face. She wasn't glaring at me, or mad, or anything of that sort. Her face just turned into a mask. One that a person who had dealt with formalities and obligations wore to appear as civil as can be.

Trying to befriend the two princesses would, in all likelihood, get the circle removed from my chest faster. On the other hand it was proving difficult to not be bitter at times. For the moment they were still essentially captors. With that barrier in place there was no way to truly make the two into some semblance of friends. Given enough time I'm sure they'll come around but for now...

“At the moment you are still bound Grim. Tasks like this one will help you earn our trust. Now for the matter at hoof. The Minotaur invasion was one thing among many that has affected our country recently. There are smaller issues that need dealt with which don't require an army. In a town to the north a great many residents have been plagued by nightmares. The contents of which my sister cannot decipher. All she was able to gather was that the nightmares had a variety of horrifying images difficult to comprehend. The images themselves are not the issue since none can recall them while not in the dream. Instead they seem to instill a great deal of fear and paranoia into ones very soul.”

I couldn't help but snicker at the bullshit being spread before me. “So let me get this strait. Instead of the princess of the night dealing with this, thing, causing nightmares too horrific to describe. You want to send me, a newcomer to the world of magic? I'm sorry, from what I'm seeing there is no way that I would be able to do something almost any competent mage could. Therefore I have to ask, why in the ash laden soil of Gehenna, would you send me?”

Celestias mask showed a crack for a moment. The ghost of a grin showing. “What is the matter Grim? Are you afraid of the unknown, not confident in your mental fortitude?”

“I'm not playing that game so wipe the look off of your face.”

She seemed to grin even more before a melodramatic sigh. “Well if you insist, the reason behind choosing you is that you seem to have mental barriers that most creatures do no poses. Luna tried to look into your dreams and found significant resistance in doing so. After all of her work getting in the dreamscape she found was fragmented and difficult to navigate. Even after that she didn't find anything of importance.”

“I don't know whether to feel violated or proud.” For the sake of my sanity I might just go with proud.

“Whichever you choose we believe these barriers will keep you protected whilst you investigate and hopefully destroy the source of the nightmares. The only restriction on the mission is that no intentional harm is to come to the citizens. I have brought an emblem to identify you as an agent of the crown.”

She hoofed over a large coin, one half with the sun the other half with the moon. “I had a pack made for you and filled it with essentials for travel: some food, water, a map, and bits for expenses. Just stop by the guard post after the front gates. Once done dealing with this return for your next assignment. I wish you luck in your endeavors.”

After that simple farewell she was gone in a flash, literally. Presumably to do princess things while I walked into my own demise. Heaving out a sigh I shrugged and stated on my way out of the castle. This was not looking like it would be a good time. The near future didn't look much better. The fact remained that I would be doing this sort of thing for a hot minute. Best to try and make the best of it instead of wallowing in misery. Who knows maybe they would free me out of guilt if I barely survived.

Approaching the front gates I saw the pack laying off to the side of the path. Two guards stood a distance away keeping trained eyes on me. Seemed like I wasn't the most welcome of company here. Picking up the pack I got out the map and took a look. The path drawn out was simple enough; stay on the road out of the north gate and get to Elderberry in a few hours.

The trek to the town itself was very uneventful. The only things that happened were some strange looks from passerby and a lot of walking. Upon entering the town something strange stuck out immediately. There were no ponies outside, it was late afternoon yet not a soul was out. The only signs of life were the occasional eye peeking out from behind curtains. Walking through the outskirts the pattern seemed to hold. That was when I heard the strangest thing, a song from my world.

Following the music I headed into the town center. There was a small clutch of ponies huddled around the music source. It looked to be a miniature jukebox, complete with flashing lights and multiple records. All of the ponies were gawking at the machine while a tall slender earth pony stallion stood behind it.

He had a charcoal black coat with a tussled gray mane. The brown cloak draped over him hid his butt tattoo, yet the most outstanding feature on him were his eyes. They didn't have an iris and the sclera was sickly yellow. From the pupil spread lines that seemed to be racing back into his skull. Upon looking at me he smiled and addressed the crowd.

“Now my friends! There is something I must attend to. Feel free to listen to my technological marvel to your hearts content.” The ponies seemed to mutter words of thanks while he made his way over to me. Looking up close he was about as tall as Luna.

“Hello there friend, ever since you arrived I have been meaning to speak with you. Such a terrible turn of luck isn't it? Ripped from your home world and forced to be a slave in the new one. The chances of that spell finding a human are actually slim considering your race manages to kill itself in most instances. Though there are a few universes that you thrive in. Personally your race is one of my favorites, so chaotic and destructive to itself. Some of your feats give me no reason to intervene in some instances. Others only need the slightest push in the right direction. The world burns either way so it doesn't make much of a difference.”

Listening to this pony was giving me a splitting headache. His words seemed to echo through my mind. It made everything he said that much more worrying.

“By the look on your face you are extremely confused at the moment. Let me fix that, just come with me.”

The next instant we were standing in a blank white space. There was no flash, no transition, nothing. He went on talking, the voice still bouncing around in my skull.

“Much better don't you think? No? Well too bad we're here now so make the best of it. Now you came here to investigate the nightmares correct.”

I struggled to answer, his voice was fading, albeit slowly. “Yes my...”

“I already know, just wanted you to feel included in this little confrontation. Now about those lesser 'gods,' as they seem to be called.”

In that moment I felt rage like I hadn't in a long time. This thing... was treating me like less than an insect, tiny, minuscule, worthless. He knows my circumstances and has the audacity to try and make me into his pawn as well. I wouldn't stand for it! My blood glowed with magic as I released all of my fury. The runes on my palms glowing as well. With a mighty scream I thrust my hands outwards unleashing a torrent of white hot flame. I would melt this freak into slag even if it meant using all of my magic.

After burning myself out my spell faded. The flames were still dancing around where the stallion had once been. I let out a weak laugh as I fell to my knees. Suddenly the stallion walked out of the fire seemingly untouched by the heat. He grinned and laughed on his approach. The sound screamed through my mind louder than before. I clutched my ears as they started to bleed. He stopped when he was an arms length away.

“No matter where I go there will always be those that bow before me. It seems universal. But you should know that there is no resisting a true god. Our whims are absolute, your just lucky that most of my siblings are sleeping and dreaming. I am one of the very few that choose to walk among mortals. You came to stop the nightmares, well they will stop in time. Fading into the minds of those afflicted. Adding to the ever present threat of insanity. I grow bored of this world for now, but for you Steven I leave a gift.”

His hoof rose over my left eye and for a few moments I knew true terror. Standing before me was an abomination that I knew was his true self. There was nothing I could do but stare and listen to the voice that projected into my mind.

“Let others witness an Outer God and see if they can survive as you have.”

Finally I was able to blink. That instant was all it took to appear outside of that cursed white space. I was kneeling where I had been standing before. The ponies were gone along with the jukebox. Slowly getting to my feet I managed to stand and took notice of the sky. It wasn't much later than it had been, only early evening now.

I had enough of this town and never wanted to set foot in it again. That was all the motivation I needed to get moving back to the castle. It was slow going since I had used almost all of my magic reserves to try and slag that fucker.

As the moon rose to its zenith I stopped and took notice of the night sky. The moon was full and the stars filled up the void with their light. It was a beautiful picture, one that was hard to come by back home. What with light pollution and all of that. I was taken away from my stargazing from the sound of hoof steps. The path had been dead for the entire walk and now seemed an odd time to come into contact with another traveler. Turning around I saw a lone figure approaching with a dagger in her mouth.

“Gimme everything you got pal no funny business.”

Looking at her I couldn't help but burst into a fit of giggles. Even in my worn down and virtually magic-less self, this was nothing. A petty bandit on the road? Seriously, if the universe was trying to dick me over it needed to step up. She seemed offended by my sudden outburst and yelled out.

“Think this is a joke?! I'll show you freak!”

As she rushed me a sudden burning sensation came from behind my left eye. It looked like I would get to see how well his so called 'gift' worked. All it took was a spark of magic directed at my eye and she stopped dead in her tracks. I could only assume she was looking upon that Outer God. My own vision was flickering slightly with his image as well. It was akin to some fucked up subliminal messaging. Staring at me with in abject horror. She suddenly started to scream and back away. As she turned and ran into the night I could make out a trail of piss behind her.

Cutting the minuscule flow of magic I regained normal use of my eye. I chuckled quietly to myself and continued on. By the time I reached the castle it had to be well past midnight. The night guard saw my approach and one even decided to come up to me and talk.

“Princess Luna has asked for your presence in her personal study immediately. I will be your escort there.” Okay, so he didn't decide to talk to me. More like he was ordered to... still that's progress. The possibility remains that the day guards are just twats but I digress.  

“Alright but you guys should probably go and bring Celestia too. My mission didn't pan out as expected and I want her there when I report my findings.”

“Of course.” He called out for one of the other guards to fetch Celestia. As we walked the halls to the princesses room a silence permeated the air. So I decided to break the ice.

“So hows the wife?”

“I don't have a wife.”

“Girlfriend?”

“You mean marefriend? No.”

“Oh... then coltfriend?”

His stoic guard mask broke for a moment, shifting to an displeased frown. “Hes been bitching about not seeing me enough. I just told him if he were willing to change his sleep schedule we could see one another more. Not like an artist has set hours.”

“Sounds like a pussy. I'd dump his ass and move on to someone that had common sense.”

“I've tried but he has this thing he does with his mouth... makes it really hard to stay mad.”

“Just move on dude, you'll be better for it trust me.”

As we approached Lunas door he left with an 'I'll think about it.' Indecisive little shit. One of the guards posted at the door knocked and Luna answered with an “enter.”

Pushing into the room I noticed that she had an obsession with the night sky. However fitting that may be, making literally every surface in your room look like that was kind of predictable. Whatever, to each their own. Luna got up from an ebony desk at one end of the room and trotted towards me.

“So what happened on your outing that warranted you coming back at night and lacking in magic?”

“I was gonna wait until Celestia got here to tell you. The events were extremely disturbing to say the least.”

Celestia chose then to enter, only looking slightly disheveled. “Grim what did you find to warrant waking me? Is it of dire importance, because if not I'll be returning to bed.”

“It is Celestia and now I need you to cast a soundproofing spell on the room. It is essential that nothing leaves here.” The two sisters exchanged worried glances and Luna eventually complied.

“Now I am going to show you two what the fuck you put me up against. Remember you forced my hand.” Another spark of magic and my left eye cast the sight of the abomination upon the two demigoddesses. They both froze on the spot. Unable or unwilling to move, much like I was. Satisfied that was enough I cut the flow once again.

The two of them came back to their senses a moment later both looking at me in shock. Luna was the first to speak up.

“What in the bloody name of nightmares was that!? That magic was ancient Grim! It predates even our oldest of spells by eons!”

Celestia decided to chime in. “That image you showed us... was that the being who gave you the spell?”

“Heh, yeah. The bastard probably thought of it as a 'gift,' so I could show my enemies what I have seen. He also said he was a true god or outer god. I tried to use all of my magic at once in a torrent of fire to turn him into slag. He just walked through it like nothing, no magic barriers and not a strand of hair out of place.”

Celestia and Luna were looking more and more worried by the moment. There may have even been a little guilt in there too. “No need to worry about him though. Said this world was boring and that the nightmares would fade with time. He's gone for the time being.”

That seemed to lighten their mood a small bit. Celestia breathed a small sigh of relief and made her way over to me. She wrapped her wings around me in some sort of feathery hug.

“Thank you for the sacrifice Grim. It does not go unappreciated.” She pulled back and made her way to the door.

“I'll be heading back to bed now. Have a good night sister, Grim.”

With her gone that just left Luna with me. “So I guess I'll be going too. Do I get a room or something?”

Luna smiled gently as she nodded her head. “Yes Grim you have a room set up at the end of this hallway. Although I would like if you stayed the night here. I'm certain you'll be hit with nightmares after tonight and it is my duty to safeguard dreams.”

“I guess, so where exactly will I be sleeping then?”

“The room to your right is my bedchamber. There is a couch by the fireplace you can take.”

“Thanks I'll be off to bed then, goodnight Luna.”

“Good night to you as well.”

I didn't even look around the room after I spotted the couch. The events of the day caught up rapidly as I dropped my pack and fell unceremoniously onto the cushions. I was out only a moment later.

In the white void it stood before me again. This time in a human form. He looked like an Egyptian pharaoh from one of the hieroglyphs yet he lacked the usual gold jewelry. “How have you enjoyed the gift so far.”

“Since you already know I can't figure out why you ask.”

“One sided conversations are so droll. Better to involve a second party.”

“Well it can literally scare the piss out of people and strike fear into demigoddesses. Gotta say you have a face only a mother could love.”

“Ha! So few have been bold enough to insult me! I knew you were an interesting one.”

“So even with all of the things you know about me I don't even know your name. May I have the honor?”

“How courteous of you, I have many, many names. The most common seems to be The Crawling Chaos. I am a messenger by trade. The message being that mortals such as you are grains of sand in a vast desert. I entertain myself by reminding you all of this fact.”

“Great so a mad god drunk on his own immortality, how quaint.”

“You mortal, will be particularly enjoyable to watch descend into madness.”

With those final words he reverted to his true form and came towards me. All I could do was stare in terror and feel the dread wash over me. I woke up screaming, feeling like my very soul had been violated by that monstrosity. All I could do was laugh, laugh at the misery, laugh at the terror, and laugh at the tears. It really was funny, in the past few days I've seen things that should have only been the stuff of dreams or nightmares. Yet here I was in another world crying after a dream of an eldritch abomination I just had the displeasure of meeting. Suddenly a pair of deep blue wings wrapped around my body. Followed by a soft voice trying to ease the pain.

“Do not fear, for nothing is here. Go back to bed and rest your head. I am the princess of the night so there is no need for fright. Sleep without dreams and there will be no screams.”

I barely heard her last words as I fell back into unconsciousness.
> Bent to His Will
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	There were days back home where I didn't want to get out of bed. In this world those seemed far to common place. Today that was especially true. The sun was shining through a window onto my face. Turning my eyes away only served to place an uncomfortable amount of heat on the back of my head. Resenting the glowing orb I slowly started to rise.

Lunas room was as spacious and luxurious as it was before bed. Speaking of bed the princess of the moon rested on hers. Not wanting to disturb her after what happened last night. I went for the pack but she must have had someone take care of it. Didn't really make a difference although the snacks would have been nice. As I made my way out Luna stirred slightly and perked up when she saw me.

“How was your rest last night?” She asked with a tinge of pride.

“It went smoothly after your help, thanks for that.” With that I let myself out, before the door closed I heard her faint voice.

“Anything for a friend...”

While walking to the kitchens the thoughts were rampant. The sodding bitch, dare call me a friend. If it wasn't for her I wouldn't even be here. I would be home with my brothers where I belong. Not in some fucked up universe with magic and gods and this bullshit circle binding me like some kind of collar. No matter what she does or what she thinks, no matter how kind her actions seem... it will never change what she did. You can't change that which has already been done.

She could spend the rest of eternity trying to make up for her mistakes and that still wouldn't change the simple fact that they happened. They are just as ageless as she is. For as long as I draw breath they will not be forgotten. All of the thoughts were distracting me and I opened the doors to the dining hall with slightly more force than intended.

When they slammed and all the staff jumped one mare didn't seem fazed in the slightest. Celestia sat there a cup of tea and some sort of flower sandwich in her aura. The worry from the discovery of gods greater than she didn't show through that mask of hers. With a calm smile she addressed me.

“How are you doing this afternoon Grim?” Have I ever mentioned how much I loathe lying, or facades, or bullshit in general? Well Celestia exuded and an air of... pseudo calm that stood out to me as the sun did in a clear sky. It was infuriating.

I took my seat without a word to her and instead turned to a cook. “Something with meat, if you don't have any just bread and beans.”

I'm not sure if it was my blatant disregard to the princess that put him off or the meat, but after giving me a look that reflected his utmost disgust he trotted off. Celestia had lost her calm smile and had a more neutral expression on her face. The silence between us was palpable. After my food came out and I dug in she started to speak.

“I don't know what you think this treatment will get you. I will say that, from experience, it won't help matters. This won't change anything and others will only think less of you for it.”

It took a moment of contemplation but I decided to cut the crap and get to the heart of the issue. “Really now? Who is here to think less of me? You? The cooks? Celestia realize that there is not a single being here that I respect enough to value their opinion. I do not respect you or Luna. I harbor a fear for the both of you and resentment, nothing else. I have no loyalty to your cause, I am not a subject. I am your slave, here by force and maintained through terror. Whatever pedestal you are attempting to place yourself on is level with all of your sins.”

For a moment I saw anger in her eyes and like that it was gone. She showed very little struggle in reining in her emotions. It was so easy to wonder what would happen if she were to ever let go, if the great wall she had built ever came down. While lost in these thoughts the fear of her, of her sister, was ever present. The power that these beings claimed to have was dreadful and even they paled in comparison to others.

“Grim...” Looking to her now the expression she showed was genuine. It seemed the only thing that made the mask harder to keep on was guilt.

“I know that you harbor these feelings towards us and will likely do so for a long time. That is acceptable, on the other hoof you cannot let these feelings guide your every action. A life lead by hatred isn't much of a life at all.”

I stood and slammed my fist on the table. “So what am I to do? Just embrace my lack of freedom? My inability to go home? Befriend the two who caused and persist this?! I don't fucking think so!”

She hung her head and droplets started to slid down her muzzle. “I'm not asking you to like it, I'm asking you to try and make the best of it... I will speak with Luna, to remove that seal. After we are finished you are free to leave if you wish.”

“Tch, it's about time you realized how fucked up this is. Call for me when you're ready, I'll be in the library.” I left her there, I didn't have much time.

When the day guard came for me I had finished my preparations. This was the first moment I would be free in this world. No circle binding me to some contract, no gods giving me orders, just me.

“Why do you lie to yourself in such a way? You know there is no such thing as true freedom in this world. You will always serve something or someone.” The echoing voice chided me. Of all the times for him to come around.

The guard escorting me didn't seem to notice his presence and kept marching on. “Why do you insist on fucking with me at the most inopportune moments?”

“If I did this for your convenience then that would be boring. I like it much better when those with my gift have a healthy dose of madness.”

“Was there anything particular you wanted or was it your sole intent to piss me off?”

“My, my, so rude. I was trying to be helpful enough to let you know this isn't going to work and offer an alternative. Alas, if you don't want me here.”

This eldritch prick based his entire existence on chaos and annihilation. Listening to anything he said will most likely result in the destruction of the world itself. Did the ends justify the means?

“What kind of deal?” The resulting cackle made my stomach turn on its head and spin.

“Just a loan of sorts and don't worry about the interest. That has already been sorted out.” I could practically feel his maw split open into a disgusting grin.

“If I fail then I may be inclined to take you up on that.”

“Good, good. Now I have to be going. You know, worlds to destroy, galaxies to terrorize, god stuff. When you need it just let go...” His voice faded and I was alone in my own skull again.

Just in time since we seemed to have arrived at the training grounds. The two sisters stood there side by side with melancholy looks. They must be sad to let their slave go... such a pity. The circle was in front of them with the middle bits left out. Guards stood on all sides, every one of them seemed anxious. Casting nervous glances at one another, shifting from hoof to hoof.

When I stepped up to the circle they attempted a smile, Luna a little more successful. “Hello Grim, Tia and I have made all of the necessary preparations to free you. Isn't that great? I do hope you choose to stay around for at least a little bit. I would hate to see you go so soon.”

I managed to smile, it came out more twisted than I would have liked. “Of course I'll hang out for a bit. There's no way I would leave so suddenly.”

Celestias face fell a little more at that. “Well, step to the circle and we can begin.” Heeding her word I stepped to its center. Luna lit her horn and immediately I felt a pulling on my chest. It got more and more intense as she poured power into the spell. After it got to the point where it felt like my skin was being ripped from my body it stopped. A weight felt like it had been lifted from my soul. Looking down I could see the mark freshly etched into the ground. I laughed and I laughed some more.

It felt so amazing to be free once more, and now to make the two pay in blood. It was suicide but worth it. They had taken something priceless from me and I wouldn't be able to continue on until I tried my absolute best to make them pay. Looking them in the eyes I flared my magic, the eye making them feel the terror of the abomination. In this moment I took full advantage, the fresh runes on the back of my hands made my control of flame that much greater.

Charging forward I made a spear of flame in each hand. They burned more white than orange but the increase in power didn't matter. A shield protected each princess from the strikes. They wore expressions of sadness, of loss.

Celestia spoke first. “We knew you would try this Grim, please stop. If not for our sake then for your own.” 

Luna looked on the verge of tears. “Grim, I am so sorry to have made you see what you saw and I vow to help you in any way I can. Just stop... please.”

I looked at the two of them and pulled back. Their shields dropped and I addressed them. “You both took away the thing I value the most. There is no way for me to go on without trying my damnedest to make you pay.”

I poured mana into my hands, two flaming orbs formed. I hurled them to the princesses. As their shields came up again I dashed around. They had already spotted me so I launched at Celestia. My fist came to bear covered in white hot flame. The impact to her shield did little more than damage my fist so I hit it again.

One after another my punches impacted her shield and soon the flames died as all focus went to hitting as hard as possible. I could see Luna out of the corner of my eye with an expression filled with guilt and pity. Celestia just looked like she was having an internal struggle to not overpower me.

My knuckles had started bleeding at some point but I couldn't even feel it at this point. As an idea struck me mana flowed into the blood left on Celestias shield and it faltered. One last hit and the bubble of magic shattered. The shock was clear as day on her face and she was too distracted to dodge any of the coming blows. With every successive hit she gave little ground while showing no signs of damage. Hitting her felt like punching a steel door and there was no way I could do this for much longer.

My world was suddenly enveloped by a beam of silver blue mana. It impacted me from the left and sent me flying away. When I landed everything got hazy, it took a moment to notice the beam had burned most of my skin away. The two of their voices carried over to me.

“Tia! Are you alright? Did he hurt you?” Luna asked in a voice laden with concern.

“I was more surprised than anything Luna. His blows didn't do much damage at all I'm just astounded he broke through the barrier.” She almost sounded proud of that... almost.

“We should be wary from here on out, it seems he has skills we were not aware of.”

“Indeed, be sure he doesn't get any of his blood on you.”

As they started to trot towards me I knew it was now or never. Struggling to stand for a moment I made it up with a grunt of pain and exertion. Upon seeing my condition they stopped. Celestia gave Luna a look which she returned with a sheepish smile before turning back to me.

“Grim if you continue on I cannot guarantee I will hold back with the next blast. This has gone far enough, now cease this foolishness so we can work this through.”

It hurt immensely but I couldn't help laughing. The two princesses looked confused so I decided to enlighten them. “My dears, you cannot imagine how similar you are to the humans from my home. We are a people that have built a society on subjugation, greed, and power. You both... hold a power far above that of other creatures that call this world home. So you decide to rule over those that revere you, to command instead of guide. At the top of this tower of bodies you have placed yourselves, letting the general populace squabble and rot. You focus so much on holding the land of your country and building a power that no others will oppose, that you never stop to consider what could be done for the common folk. Instead of creating a place where all life can thrive you have shown that you are no better than the mortals you command.

Right here, right now, I will stand where others have knelt. I will fight where others have fled... I will die where others have lived. I know that there is no chance in hell that I can beat you two. Then again, I'm fine with being the forerunner. In my world there were never any gods, fakes yes but none were real. However in our legends people were able to overthrow deities when they stood as one. Maybe I'll inspire some ponies to take a stand. Or even, given enough time, you will see the error of your ways.”

Forming a claw on my right hand and enveloping my right arm in armor I moved forward. My magic was draining fast to replenish all of the used blood. That trick with Celestia though... I might be able to steal some instead. When I was within twenty paces of the goddesses Luna shot an arc of lightning at me. Catching it in my left hand the mana flowed into my core and added to the reserves. Celestia followed up with a mana beam.

It struck my out held right hand and shattered the claws there. Before the shards hit the ground she was in front of me. The buck that followed felt like it caved my chest in. I skidded to the side of the arena and tried to recover. When I made it halfway up Luna suddenly kicked me back towards her sister; the attempt to block it with my armored arm failed miserably as it shattered on impact. Between the two goddesses hits it took much longer to stand than I would have liked.

As the two took their first steps towards me I reached out to the shards of mana infused blood and crushed them into dust. Before they could figure out my plan they were surrounded by a storm of the particles. I directed as much of it at their mouths as I could and by the time they used their wings to blow the remains away it was too late. The dust was in their lungs and ready to receive the next order.

All of the guards around started to panic when they saw what happened next. Their infallible, undefeated goddesses, bled. They gasped in pain as the dust formed into needles and tore at their innards, ichor dripped and eventually gushed onto the ground. The guards were trying to help but were stopped by a barrier, the princesses must have put it up to keep them out of this. Looking back to the struggling forms I noticed something. Lunas horn was lit up with a spell and a dome of pitch black was surrounding us rapidly. When it finally closed I was taken aback at what happened before me.

The two goddesses released a gigantic burst of power and stood before me as they truly were. Lunas coat had changed to a stark black while the vast reaches of space seemed to dance across the surface. Her mane flowed erratically behind her while stars died and came to life inside of the beautiful locks.

Celestia was such a contrast to the current environment it hurt to look at her. The radiance of her flaming mane was brilliant. Her coat shined an impossible shade of white while novas danced across her body. These were goddesses... in all of their glory. In this moment I knew the true scale of their power. When they spoke it was as one, their voices reached out to my soul. It was not that maddening echo The Crawling chaos used. It felt as if they saw through me, though the facade, the lies, only seeing what was in my core.

“You have wounded us... it has been a long time since anything has done so. We see the pain inside and can forgive you with time. Do not throw aside your life in this petty pursuit of revenge. You have the capability to do so much more. Come, help us correct our mistakes. Living so long in flesh has made us forget what is important. You reminded us of that which we sought to accomplish. Together we can all make a world where everything can live in harmony. Where everything can flourish. Will you join us?”

I let out a sigh as a few stray tears slid down my face. “Don't ever forget what you two can do together. There was no saving my people from the downward spiral of destruction we created. In this world... with you guys here as a guide, I think the potential is limitless. If we can get everyone here to unite, then there will no longer be a need for suffering. There will be no need for hatred, malice, or greed. If you swear to me that you will never forget, then yes. I will join you.”

Each of them lifted a hoof to their chest and made an 'X.' The marks glowed for a moment and then faded. “We swear on our heavenly bodies that we will never forget this promise, for the rest of existence.”

I smiled my first genuine smile since I arrived here. As I approached the princesses there was a sudden pain in my left eye. His screams filled my head as Celestia and Luna started to run towards me. No matter the speed they were going I knew it wouldn't be fast enough.

“Sentimental mortals, here I thought you would relish the idea of besting these insects. Instead you spat on my offer and took their side instead. No matter, its not like anything will survive after a dose of my power.”

That is when the pain started to spread throughout my entire being. The pain to flesh was barely even noticeable as his power twisted and warped my essence, my soul. His voice started to fade when reality ceased to exist.

“Welcome to my madness mortal.”
> A Single Tear is Dropping
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	This space... it felt like eternity. I couldn't feel anything, no sadness, no pain, no happiness, nothing. Is this what it was like to die? I didn't believe in any sort of afterlife and this was basically what I had envisioned, but I couldn't help but be disappointed. No longer would I be able to do, well anything really. The fact that I was able to think astonished me. But that also made me ponder, what if I'm not quite dead? If that were true then this could be considered a type of limbo.

“You are close yet so far away.” His voice seemed to come from every direction of the space at once.

“Yes mortal this plane of existence is me so it would only make sense. As for why you are here, or at least your conscious, is I channeled a small potion of my power into you. Through that little eye of yours. The chaotic nature of my magic is changing you as we speak. So before you are gone I must ask, at your core what are you?”

“What do you mean by that?” 

“What I mean is, if you took away everything you think you should be and everything the world thinks you should be what are you?”

I didn't know how to answer. Every single person is first molded by the society that they were raised in. Then came the events of ones life shaping them into a different person day by day. Lastly after a person started to form their own opinions and beliefs they could see what they wanted to be and work towards that. Take everything away would mean we are no more than what we truly are, but that person has been buried for so long there isn't any hope of finding them.

“You sound troubled so let me shed some light on this. You want to spread chaos with child like glee. To smile at destruction and be genuinely happy. To look upon pain and suffering like a game to be played. That is the real person known as 'Grim.' When you return there will be no memories of a past life, maybe some lingering emotions but they will fade with time. This curse makes a being that can be no more than the sum of its parts and all you are... is flesh and blood.”

Why is everything so dark? What is this place and who are these two staring at me? That seems rather rude. Maybe I'll just ask.

“You there, yes the dark one, why do you two insist on staring at me? Is there something caught in my teeth? Perhaps I forgot to comb my hair? Or could it be the both of you just find me attractive?”

Their jaws looked like they were about to unhinge and I couldn't help but laugh at the shocked expressions the two wore. “Grim is that really you?”

“Grim? Really that's my name? It sounds like something a broody teenager would come up with. I think I'll change that, how about... Discord? Oh yes, I like that ring that one has to it.” I appeared behind the two of them and pulled each one close. “Since you know my name why don't you tell me yours.”

The white one spoke up, her voice was tinged with a little hurt as she spoke. “You don't remember us? My name is Celestia and that is my sister Luna.”

I put a paw to my chin in contemplation but came up dry. “Sorry doesn't ring any bells up here. Although I do feel like we have met before. So Tia, Lulu, why is it so dark here? Don't tell me we live in some sort of big empty because that would get dreadfully boring very quickly.”

“It is a spell I cast to shield our true appearances from the public.” Luna answered. She sounded as if she was struggling to hold back tears. “I can drop it now and we can go back to the castle.”

“Oh a castle? I'll lead the way then. Tally ho!” I simply passed through the bubble and approached a stone castle. Something about it felt vaguely familiar but that didn't matter since this place was in desperate need of some life. The stone grey walls with the stone grey floor just made me want to cringe. Without that bubble around I could feel and perceive the entire world around me and all of it was in a sorry state just like this castle. Lulu was still in the courtyard and very surprised that I could just waltz out of her little bubble. If she thought that was impressive just wait until I finish redecorating!

Tia on the other... claw, or was it paw? Anyway she was in a slightly less extravagant form and chasing me down telling me to 'wait.' There was no time for something like that with so much to be done. These smaller ponies had the right idea, they got out of my way whenever I got close. A few tried to stop me but a simple snap of my fingers was all it took to turn those spears into oversized bananas. Tia saw those and couldn't help but stop and stare. She started to look extremely hungry before snapping out of it and finally catching up. 

“Gr-, I mean Discord. We need to get back to my quarters and find a way to fix this. There must be a spell of some sort to get you back to normal!”

“Tia dear, there is nothing to fix I am what I am and there is nothing you or anyone else can do to change that. Whatever this 'normal' me is it sounds boring. I want no part in whatever it is. Now if you'll excuse me I need to start.”

“Start what?”

“Why redecorating of course!” With a snap of my fingers the whole room changed. It was now a lovely shade of neon pink with toxic green polka dots. The chairs were all stuck to the ceiling and lollipops were growing like trees from the floor. “Ah! So much better! After the castle is done I can move on to all of the rest.”

“The rest?”

“Yes dear, this whole world is in desperate need of some chaos to spice it up. I just can't wait to finish here and get to work.”

“Discord, what about all of the ponies and other creatures? What will they do in a world without order?”

“Them? What does it matter? They'll be fine, I mean there isn't any way they'll need food or water. I have all of that covered. They'll even get to move around all the time. I want to make the world shift near constantly so nobody will ever get bored. There will always be fun to be had and... oh hello there Lulu. You look a little pale could I interest you in some chocolate milk?” A little magic and voila a glass of milk for little Luna. She eyed it suspiciously before taking a sip. She must have liked it since she downed the rest of the glass in one go.

“Thank you, Discord, now I must ask. How did you get through the barrier!?” She yelled in a voice that threatened to burst my eardrums.

“Lulu volume please, you lose your natural charm when you yell.” Her cheeks went a slightly darker shade of blue as she pouted. “As for your question I just rejected your reality and substituted my own. Easy peasy parasprite squeezy. Wait... Idea!” Another snap of the claws and the most adorable little bug popped into existence and flew off. The little devil would cause so much mayhem. Ah they grow up so fast.

While I had been creating new life Celestia had taken Luna off to the other side of the room to talk. I don't know what purpose she thought that served since I could see and hear better than they could.

“Luna we need to handle this swiftly and carefully. If he is even half as powerful as we think him to be this could end badly.”

“Sister do you think there is a way to get him back to the way he was?”

“I don't know Luna but first we need to incapacitate him and seal him away for the time being. Tartarus is the most secure location. As I said before we must hurry before he catches on”

“You know ladies I can hear everything and I don't much appreciate a conspiracy to throw me into jail. Now I may just be able to forgive you with enough time and cake. For now though I can't Have you meddle.” Their alternate forms could be troublesome if allowed to have the run of things so a simple lock ought to do the trick. One snap later and the deed was done. Just in time too since they tried ascending with no results. They both looked shocked at their newfound weakness and then at me with malice in their eyes.

Luna screamed in that dreadful voice again. “What did you do to us?!”

“I just put a lock on those pesky powers of yours. Don't you worry though they aren't lost. You'll find the key soon enough, trust me.”

“Discord we will not allow you to run rampant on this world. Luna with me!”

They charged forward and split off to each side in an attempt to flank, attempt being the key word. Just before impact I disappeared and the two collided with one another. I didn't want to deal with these two right now so I just snapped my fingers and each was trapped in a bubble.

“Now ladies, I have things to do but it was so nice of you to come over and visit. Please do so again in the future. Just not too soon there is some cleaning that needs done first.”

One last 'snap' and the two were teleported to opposite sides of the globe with most of their magic stolen. They wouldn't be able to do anything for quite some time. It would be so nice to see their reactions to the new castle and the new world for that matter. Now to... what is this? Bringing a paw up to my face a single tear is left hanging on the tip of my finger. Why would that be? This was a time of joy! For me and everyone else. Yes, soon everyone would be happy in this fun new world I would create. All it takes is a snap and my dreams come true.
> Epilogue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

	"Why are we visiting the vault again Ladies? I can't seem to remember."

Celestia came in with her motherly tone. "That's because we haven't told you Discord. We want it to be a surprise."

"And for the love of the moon will you please stop asking. That was the sixth time and we've only been walking for five minutes!" Ah Luna always short in temper. Maybe she has a complex? Something to do with being smaller than Celestia? Sounds incredibly likely, I mean we know about the tantabus so why not pile on more issues? The more the merrier I always say... actually I think I coined that phrase some time ago. Wait had these two been talking this whole time?

How rude of me! Just floating along ignoring my temporary hosts. Even if they are being sour pusses. Fluttershy would be ashamed, can't have that now can we? "I apologize ladies but i was too preoccupied with my own thoughts and got distracted. Did you say anything important? No? Great!"

I went back to just floating along but this time I paid attention to their conversation. It seemed odd that they forgot how good my hearing is. Luna spoke in a harsh voice laced with more anger than before, it was odd. That tone sounded eerily familiar. "Sister we should not be doing this, he will not remember. Actually knowing him he will find a way to mock us and his memory after seeing the artifacts."

Celestia replied in a slightly... choked up tone? "I, we, have to try Luna he might and even if he doesn't we will know for certain that there is no hope. Just please bear with me."

This was getting interesting, the sisters did not have positive feelings about this at all. Quite the opposite in fact yet they still try. What could be in this vault that they need to show me? Whatever it was there was very little chance it would be pleasant. As we entered the basement they quickened their pace and I effortlessly increased my own speed.

"This may sound odd but I am slightly worried by the way you two are acting. This is obviously unpleasant yet you still push through for my sake. If I need to remind you, the both of you, that I'm not your favorite creature by a long shot."

"Yes we know." Replied Luna, her tone laced with more sadness than anger now. "Discord could you make us a promise?"

"I can if it is reasonable enough."

"Do not make a jest at what you see... it means a lot to us." Her voice spoke volumes of the truth behind that statement. She made it rather difficult to decline.

"I swear on chaos itself I will take this seriously."

I could practically hear Celestia smile. "Thank you Discord that means a lot to us."

You couldn't help but roll your eyes. "Lets get this over with so I can go back to have tea with Fluttershy."

As we approached the barrier I could already feel the magic that protected it. These spells were only slightly younger than me and that gave me pause. That would mean that they were created directly after or sometime during my reign. As the two joined their magic together to create the key needed I couldn't help but feel uneasy. The magic field in front of us dissipated and we continued on. Inside of the vault were relics of great power and possible destruction... so tempting but no. What would Fluttershy think? Deeper in were near countless scrolls written in various languages used throughout history. Most of which are now dead. Even deeper in there was a second barrier, one even more powerful than the first. As the sisters moved to unlock it I couldn't help but ponder what lie behind it. What could be so important to them that it needs this level of protection? For goodness sake the Elements weren't nearly as well guarded as this.

After the second barrier fell the two sisters stepped out of the way. Celestia spoke in a strained tone. "Go ahead Discord lead the way, you should know what we came for when you see it." Moving past them you look around the room and find... personal belongings? The room was divided into what looked like different sections. Each devoted to an individual person complete with a painting and everything. So... who's stuff was I supposed to find?

After walking for a few moments my eyes settled on a chest in the back. It seemed different from the rest. All it had was a plaque, no painting, only a name 'Grim' etched into it. Moving closer I felt a little nostalgic. Where had i heard that name before? While pondering that I opened the chest and found... something. In the chest were three items, a vest, a rifle, and a pistol. Wait... how did I know what to call these? I've never seen anything like them before. While standing there the sisters came up behind me.

"Those were yours when you first came here." Celestia spoke. "Do you remember the day you came into existence?"

"Yes I do, you two were there and kept calling me by... Grim." Looking up at the name things start to fall into place but no memories of that time come back. Suddenly a wave of grief came over me, almost drowning me in the process. Closing the chest I turn to the sisters and snap my talons. Removing the seals I placed on them so long ago.

"The key that you two never found was me. The original plan was for you to stay away for a while then come back, love the new look of the world, and get your power back so we could all have fun together. Although that fell through when you attacked me again and again. Looking back I could see why. I still don't remember anything from before but one thing I do know is I came into this world with many feelings that weren't mine. By far the strongest was the feeling of friendship towards the two of you. I didn't know this Grim and I am not him. I never even talked to him... yet I know he cared for the two of you deeply. He trusted you." I looked up to the tear filled faces of the sisters and felt a sting in my heart. Bringing the two in for a hug they started to cry for their lost friend and I could only stand there.

"Tia, Lulu, I would like us to start over. I can't replace him but I have known you two all of my life. And... I want what you had." They looked up at me with tear stained faces and nodded. These two lost someone important because of me it's only right to fix the problems I caused.