My name is Ed. I am a Diamond Dog. And this is my story.
My species are one of the one most unfortunate beings to live in Equestria. We are few in numbers. Many of my kind aren't even educated as the ponies around us. Those ponies have no Idea how well of a life they have. They live in peace warm homes while my kind is shunned and are seen as dumb dogs.
But I am the exception.
I am going to lead our kind into a better life in these lands. I may have lost everything, but I still have my mate, and that is enough for me to live on. Somehow, some way, I will give my kind, the respect and honor it once had.
the gore is for the blood and violence maybe seen in later chapters
My name is Ed, I was the leader of the Diamond Dog from the West Mountains. Three days ago, I lost my pack to a dragon that decided to make his nest in our cave. He destroyed everything we worked so hard to make. I lost everything to that fiend, my family, my friends, and my mate.
In order to give my family a chance to flee. I had to face the dragon with two of my best comrades. We fought valiantly trading blows with the beast, but it pointless. None of us had the means to kill a dragon of his size without getting killed ourselves. Our only hope was to keep fending it off long enough for everyone to retreat. As the fight continues on, I was heavily wounded by the creature. With a swing of its tail, I was sent flying out of the cave crashing into the forest below. I lost concise with the last thing I remember was water.
When I awoke I found myself in a bed with bandages across my body. It hurt to move my right arm at the time, but I didn't give it much thought. I didn't know where I was and my pack needed me. Slowly I got out of bed to have a look out a window nearby to see a village of ponies, but something about the way they acted gave me a bad vibe (not to mention all of their butt marks looked the same). I may not be the expert on ponies, but I don't ever remember their marks matching another's one.
Soon a pony name Starlight came into my room and welcome me to her town. She said one of her ponies found me in the river floating on a broken tree, and I have been asleep for two days. I thank her for helping me and asked her if she saw or knew of another pack of Dogs nearby. Unfortunately, she didn't, but she did say I was welcome to stay as long as I like, so long as I remember this one thing. I owe her now.
Once night had fallen, I made my way outside the town to have a look around. The town was very isolated and I could see the river of which Starlight told me about. But more than that I could see my home. Fires still a blazed and scorching the mountainside sending pillars of smoke into the air as a proud dragon sleeps on his victory. I knew I couldn't stay here. Not with facing the pain of my home in such a condition.
The next morning I bid the towns ponies farewell as I left to search for my pack.
I knew it was hopeless trying to find them, but what else could I do. I began my journey south towards some smaller dens of dogs. I thought that if my pack had survived, they would have done the same.
Once I have found one, they were less than helpful to me than the ponies. Not only did they failed to give me any knowledge of my packs well been, but have turned me away the same day. For they said that didn't want to waste time with a wounded dog. I tried telling them that my arm would heal and I could be a use for them. But when one of the healers look at my arm, he said that I could never dig like I true Diamond Dog ever again. My arm didn't hurt because of broken bones, but rather it hurt for the muscles in it. My right arm was rendered useless. Before I left the den, one dog came to me and told me about a pack of dogs passing by here not too long ago and head west towards the border of the forest.
Thanking the dog. I made hast towards the forest knowing that they won't stay there for much longer. For a whole day, I ran as fast as I can stopping only to sneak around predators. By nightfall, I was reunited with my pack and my mated. They wanted to rebuild their lives outside the lands of Equestria before I came. If they left one day earlier, I would have never found them.
Two weeks later, I learned I was going to be a father, however, before a celebrate could be held we were attacked. A hoard of starving changeling came falling out of the sky. Most of the pack weren't fighters and the ones that could fight were out number seven to one. I don't know how we fend them off, but we survived. However, we lost half of what remained of our pack that day. We decide to rest in near a river to heal our wounds. But peace would not find us soon. For two days later my pack was attacked again. This time by a hydra. We lost ten more dogs that day. As we journey to leaves these lands we ask help from dogs that we find.
However, we would receive no help from them. Because the food was too low that they could share any of it. We could have tried to fight them for it but my dogs were in no shape for a fight. Our pack has only three warriors, three diggers, and four wounded and the rest were workers. We tried to find more dogs to help us, however, as the days grew longer and dangers keep coming every day. Soon it became a cycle of death for us, for every dog we gain, we lose two. We were attacked every two days by every known creature in these lands. Before long it was just me and my mate left. We were camped in an old cave eating what remains of our supplies. As I put my mate to sleep for the night, I was beginning to lose hope of finding a new life.
But as I stand guard outside the cave then I remember about a pack in the mines nearby the Everfree. From what I have could remember they are better off than we were. With no record of attacks there in years, and there was I dog there that I know. It has been so long ago since I had the last talk to him. I don't know if he is still there. I believe his name was Rover. I decided to tell my mate about it. She agreed and we headed off to the mines.
It took three days to reach the mines. Once there, I could see evidence of Diamond Dogs here. I could only hope that they were still here. After looking at the piles of dirt we found an entrance to the mines above ground unguarded with struck me as odd. Regardless I and my mate enter the mines looking for them.
We were soon greeted with the sound of fast digging before two Diamond Dogs guards came from the ceiling before they point their spears at us.
“Halt Dogs! What are you doing here?” one of them said
“We are just looking for a home. We lost our pack to a dragon and to the creatures of these land. We have been on the road surviving by moving from place to place. We are what is left of my pack. My name is Ed, and this is Melody.” I said
“Wait... Ed! As in Ed of the West Mountain Dogs?” he said
“Yes, he is.” Said Melody
“Lairs! Ed is dead. He was killed by the dragon that attacked their cave months ago, there is no way you can be him! He couldn’t have survived!” said the other guard
“It doesn't matter whether or not if I am him. That name has no more meaning now.” I said. my statement seemed to have hurt my mate as she lowered her head knowing what I have said is true. As for the guards, they looked offended.
“You take that back! You dumb dog! Ed of the West Mountain Dogs was the Smartest and the Strongest Diamond Dog in all of Equestria. You have no right to talk about him like that mutt.” Said one of the guards.
Before more could be said another dog came into view revealing a dog I have not seen in a long time.
“What is going on he-... ED!” Rover shouted as he recognizes me. He rushes over towards me. “ED! You are alive!" Rover then pocks me a few times to make sure that I was real. "How?”
“Well, alive for now at least.”
“Wait... Rover, he is Ed?” said one of the guards
“Yes, he is. So put those spears down and show him some respect.” Rover said as the guards comply.
“Thank you, Rover," I said to him. "Is there any way you can help us? It has been a long time since we had a peaceful moment to ourselves.” I said.
“Of course.” He said before he turns around and shouted into the cave
“HAY Fido! Spot! Get over here.” Soon two more dogs showed up.
“What’s going Rover," said the tall one. "Who is the mutt?”
“This dog Fido is Ed of the West Mountains and his mate…. uh?” Rover said as Fido looks like he just came face to face with the jaws of a hydra.
“Melody.” My mate said.
“Melody got it. So, can you two take them someplace to get some sleep boys.”
“On it. This way you two.” Spot said as he leads us deeper into the cave.
But for some reason, Fido hasn’t moved since he heard my name.
“Hay! Fido! get a move on already.” Said Rover as Fido snaps out of it to join us.
Spot leads us deeper into the mines. During our walk, I got a good look and smell of this place. Just one sniff of this place I can smell it is litter with of all kind of gems. The dogs here also look well fed which is a good change of pace. They also have guard dogs here, which I am going to have to see how well trained they are later. That’s if they won’t mind letting us stay here, but we will just have to wait and see now won’t we Max. I thought to myself as I rub a small piece of red cloth wrap around my right arm. But then I started to smell something odd and yet familiar coming from deep in the cave. My nose has to be playing tricks on me because I refuse to believe that one of them in hiding in these mines. I will have to look around for it later, right now I need to keep my mate safe.
“And here is where we used to store all the gems we got from the mine,” Spot said gesturing to an empty room to our left. Looking inside I can tell It is a very big room and looks recently used.
“What happened to the gems?" I asked Spot. "Is there a shortage of gems coming in?”
“Well, no, you see there was this pony who could find gems and then we tried to get her to find more gems for us-” He started saying before I cut him off.
“Wait! Are you saying there is a pony who can find gems?” I said staring at him with a glare.
“Yes.” He said looking a little nervous at his answer.
“So instead of asking her to help you. You tried to force her into finding more gems!” I exclaim to him scaring him into a frightening pose.
“How did you know we did that?!” he said
“You just told me. And not to mention a pony would never help us. It would have been easier for you to capture her and force her to work instead. And by the size of this room, she wouldn’t have been able to take all of the gems on her own without the help of her friends.” I said looking on the ground where the gems used to be.
“Huh! How did you know there was more than one pony?” Spot said pointing a finger at me.
“Easy. I know for a fact one earth pony wouldn’t be strong enough to carry all these gems on her own. Same thing for a Pegues pony, which only leaves a unicorn pony. But not even one unicorn mare has enough magic to pull this off without help.” I said making my way out of the room.
Spot is looking at me with a wide-eyed expression of amazement. Trying to pick up on my method of how I figured all of that just by looking at the room. Melody than closes his mouth with a paw before patting him on his back.
“You’ll get used to it.” She told him.
"Aren't you going to ask what happened after we got her?" Fido asked
"Does it really matter anymore?" I asked him. "The gems are gone. End of story. So now then Spot, where were we?” I said him snapping Spot out of his little trans.
“Oh, right. This way to your rooms.” He said smiling.
After making a few more turns we found ourselves in a carved out hole in the wall. It was well lit, has a bed and even a place to clean up.
“Sorry for the lack of space Ed. We don’t get that many visitors here, let alone ones that want to stick around here. If I would have known…” Rover was saying before I interrupted him.
“It’s perfect Rover,” Melody said made her way to the bed.
“I would have… really?” Rover looks at me confused.
“Yes, it is,” I said before I turned to look at him. “Rover you have to understand. Melody and I have been homeless for the past two months. Going place to place never steading down. Only stopping for food, water and a safe place to sleep.” I then turn back to Melody who was now laying down on the bed. “What you have given us is more than any other living creature has done for us, ever since we lost our home and pack. Trust me before we leave here I will make this up to you Rover.” I said making my way to Melody but stop when Rover spoke to me.
“Leaving! Why would you two be leaving from here?” he said with a coinsured look on his face.
“Well for starters. You never said we could live here. When we first arrived here we were just looking for a place to stay for the night.” I said look back at him.
“Oh! Right. Well, then Ed. You and Melody can consider yourselves part of the pack. Once you two have rested up, I can show you more of what we do around here.”
“Thank you, Rover. I will do my best to make this up to you and your pack.” I said
“Hay it our pack now Ed. Also, it is the least I can do for you Alpha.” Rover said giving me a thumbs up, which only makes me laugh a little.
“Rover I am no longer your Alpha or any dogs alpha. I am just a homeless Diamond Dog you have taken into your pack. You are the Alpha Now Rover.” I said turning away from him leaving him with a wide-eyed look on his face realizing I am correct.
“Well then. I guess that is the case now isn’t Ed. Get some sleep them you dogs you need it.” He said making his way out of the room.
I then went to join Melody on the bed and I sat on the edge facing the entrance of the room covered by a cloth. Then Melody leans against my back resting her head on me.
“It looks like things are finally looking up for us for once Ed.” She said rubbing my shoulder.
“It sure does. Doesn’t it Melody?” I said looking at the ground.
This made Melody coinsured about me.
“What wrong Ed? Is something the matter?” she asked looking at me from the side.
“I just Afraid Melody. Afraid that when I wake up tomorrow; this was just all a dream and we are still out there. On the run form manticores. This just seems too good to be true to be happening to us.” I said rubbing the cloth on my arm.
Melody then takes notice of what I am doing. As she stops my paw.
“Ed, you know that wasn’t your fault. There wasn’t anything you could have done about it. Sometimes these things happen, and there is nothing we could have done about it.” She said squeezing my paw.
“But if I have come back sooner.”
“Then you would have been helpless to help, as you were when you weren’t there Ed.”
I then bring her into a hug as I stork her back. “I am sorry Melody. You are right I just wished things would have turn out differently for us.” I said as I continue to hold her. “Now is there anything I can get for you, Melody?”
“No, I am fine for now. I just want to rest for now.” She said as she began to get ready for bed, but then I pick up the scent from earlier. It is nearby.
“Ok then. I will be with you in a minute I need to use the bathroom.” I said getting up to leave to room.
“See you later than my mate.” She said closing her eyes
“Likewise Melody,” I said pushing the cloth to the side and leaving the room. I walked for a couple of minutes away from the room before stopping in the middle of the hallway.
“Now then, why don’t we talk like civilized dogs.” I said looking at one of the dark halls nearby before I heard some clapping.
“Well, then good job mutt. I must ask, how did you know I was here.” Said a voice in the darkened hallway.
“I smelled you when I first entered the mines here. I thought I was just smelling things, but then I smelled you again Bug.” I said
“Oh, you have a good nose on you.” The changeling said coming into view so I can see it. “By the looks of it. You aren’t like the others D.D. here. You are different, smarter. So, tell me, why come out and talk to me like this mutt?” the changeling said looking at me.
“To tell you to leave and never brother this pack again. This is your last warning Bug.” I said which only made the bug laugh at me.
“Oh, wow and what will you do if I don't mutt. You only have one good arm and I am a changeling. I can take you out and take your place and no one would be the wiser. In fact, why don’t I just do that right now.” He said charging at me.
When he was going to punch me in the face, but he stops in mid punch. Confuse as to why his attack stops he then cough out some blood and feels a sharp pain coming from his chest. Looking down he can see a glowing light blue blade coming out of my left paw, and into his chest.
“Wha..at.” He tried to say but I interrupted him.
“Never underestimate your opponent bug,” I said as I pulled out my blade letting him fall to the ground.
He struggles to get back on his hooves but I kick him back on the ground. He struggles for a few more moments before he lay there still before his body started to glow. Shined bright green before disappearing into small stardust and then concentering into a small green gem on the floor.
I then lend down to pick up the gem inspecting it. I can see the small figure of the bug inside frozen like a statue. "You know bug, a very long time ago. There was a reason why my kind was called ‘Diamond Dogs’ and we were something you didn't mess with.” I said heading back to my room to sleep this off putting the gem in my pocket.
It’s has been a while since I have used Uhane Komi. It’s not something I want to use often, but I didn’t want any more changelings coming after us without a backup plan. As I continue to stare at the gem in my paw, it still hard to believe that this was once a living creature with its own free will. But now it is mine. I toss the gem a few times before I put in back in my pocket with the rest of them.
Looking to my left, I can see my mate sleeping soundly, as I gently rub the side of her head. I didn’t tell her about the bug last night, how could I? The last thing she needs to know right now is that changelings were already here before us. And that we might lose our home again.
Slowly I got up without waking her, I made my way towards a small wash bin to clean myself up. The water cold to the touch against my fur, but at least it was clean. After drying myself off I looked at my right paw and sighed. The pain is gone and I can still use it to grab and hold small objects with it, but anything bigger and heavier than an apple is too must for me.
Looking back at my sleeping mate one more time, before I exited our room. As soon as I left was greeted with the sight of Rover walking down the hall. Rover smiled and was going to speak, but I cut him off and signal to him for silence. He looked confused but complied. I then motion him to follow me and once we were far enough away I then addressed him.
“Good morning Rover. Or is it even?”
“No, it’s morning, so I guess Melody is still asleep?”
“Yes, she is. She deserves the rest. So, Rover, what is on the agenda today?”
“Well, we are still having problems locating gems. This cave used to be litter with them, but then we lost them to that pony. So now we are back to square one.” He said with a sad look in his eye.
Slowly I shook my head, “Gems will always be an issue Rover. Is there anything else?”
“Yes, we are having some problem with the pony we normally trade with for supplies.”
“What kind of problem?”
“He has risen his prices for us, he said something about a dragon or a manticore is roaming around the trading route he uses.”
We then enter another room which looks like a supply room, but it is very empty. There are only three small crates of food and a couple of barrels of water. Looking around I notice that there are broken pieces of crates covered in dirt. I could guess that these were lost in a cave in, there are rare but they do happen.
“We have tried bargaining with him, but he refuses to lower his prices for us. And if things continue as they are, we will be out of gems by the end of the week.” Rover said as he reaches in one of the open crates and hands me an apple.
“That is some troubling news Rover,” I said while I put the apple away for later. “Is there anything we can do about the threat on the road?”
He shakes his head while letting out a sigh “I am afraid I can’t give you an answer on that. G. Hooves wasn’t very specific. So, I am not sure if we even can do something about it.”
“I see, is there any other ponies or creatures nearby that we can still trade with?”
“No, he is the last one who is still willing to do any kind of trading with us.”
“Really? What happened to the rest of them? Did the threat scare them off or did they stop long before that?” Our conversation continues as we entered a recantation area; there were three other dogs in here, and some of these dogs look like they have seen better days.
After finding some seats; we continue our conversation, “Yes, they stop coming to trade with us once the threat appeared, however, I would bet my gems that G. Hooves had something to do with it.”
“Really? Go on.”
“Back when there more ponies that would trade with us. He would always sell his stuff at a high price compared to the others and is not the nicest pony I have ever meet either. But once the treat showed up the other ponies never came back.”
“So, in the end, you still traded with the only pony left.”
“Yes, we did.”
“I see. Is there any way that instead of the ponies coming to us; we can go to the ponies?”
“Well, we have tried, but the ponies don’t like us coming into their towns. That is why they come to use near the cave so, to the other ponies, it looks like they are getting the gems themselves.”
“Well, Rover. That is going to change today. If those ponies can’t stand the sight of us nearby then they can find their own gems. I will not let another dog starve because of the ponies.”
“Ed, what are you thinking?” Rover said
“I going saving this pack. Starting with that threat on the road.”
“What do you need than?”
“I am going to needed two guard dogs to accompany me.”
“Alright, then Ed. And for every dog's sake, don’t get killed out there.”
Ten minutes later…
We are now own the route were the trades use to get to the caves. So far, we have found nothing which strikes me as odd. Maybe the threat left and the road is clear again, but then again it could just be hiding somewhere waiting for anything to come its way. Whatever the reason is I must know. However, my guards aren’t making this any easier for me.
“So, what are we doing out here again Ed?” said one of the guard dogs.
“We are here for two reasons. One to find out what is the threat on the road is. And to find out if we can take care of it.” I told him.
“But what if we do find a manticore on the road like the pony said or a dragon?” another one said.
“Then we head on back to the cave and come up with another plan to take care of it or get around it. But first, we need to know what is out here.” I said as I parted some branches on the road.
“Well I think we should just head on back to the cave where it is safe.” the second one said shaking in fear.
“And you call yourself a Guard Dog. Where is your… hold it.” I said hold up my paw silencing them before them I moved over there behind some bushes with my guards right behind me.
“What is it?”
“Quiet something is coming. Stay low to the ground and don’t do anything.” I said getting low to the ground as they follow suit.
Soon we heard the shaking of the tree branches followed by some of them snapping and a heavy thud of something landing nearby. Creeping to the edge of the bush I could see a dragon walking by. I could tell we are dealing with a young adult judging by the size of the claws on it. Clenching my paws in rage at the sight of the creature, but I retain myself “This is not good; I was kind of hoping for a manticore. At least thing I could have taken it on, but I am no match for a dragon of any size in my condition.”
The dragon stops walking about ten feet away from us; forcing us to stay quiet until it decided to leave. After a few minutes, I could hear a wagon coming down the road, and soon I could see a well dress pony pulling it. He doesn’t look frightened by the presence of the dragon; instead, he looks pleased as he got closer.
“It good to see you again Nova.” The pony said.
“Cut the chatter Greedy Hooves. You know what I am here for.” Said Nova
“Yes, occurs straight to business as always. I have your gems right here.” Greedy said as he unhooks himself and then pulled back the cover on the wagon to reveal a wagon full of gems.
Nova grins as he inspects each gem. There is no doubt in my mind that these two are working together to get our gems. I lean in closer to hear what they were talking about.
“And what of those dogs in the caves. I hear that they are having a hard time right now.” Nova said as he starts eating the gems.
“Yes, that is a tragedy for them. They were my best customers for gems here, pity.” Greedy said as he dusts off his suit.
“And as usual those dogs are too dumb to realize that they are being played. Do you remember the time that they were rob by a bunch of mares?”
“Yes, and the gems went to the use of designer dresses. We got a great thing going on here Hooves, but soon we are going to have a problem on our hands.”
“You just make sure no other ponies make it to the caves and I will deal with those dogs.”
“And what will happen when they do run out of gems? How will they be any more use for us?” Nova asked as he continues to eat the gems.
“Well, that’s why I have you now don’t I? Once they do run out gems. I need you to drive them out of there. Force them into the wilderness to find another mine for us.” Greedy said casually.
“You know you are a despicable pony Hooves, which is why I like you.”
“Yes, yes Nova I know. *Ahem* I will contact you again when I need to talk to you again. For now, keep up the good job.” Greedy said as Nova took the cart away and leaving him alone. “If only that big oaf was as corporative as Nova; I would prefer a much larger dragon working for me, instead of this small fry.” He said to himself before heads back the way he came.
I waited thirty minutes after they left before I got out of the bushes. Things just got serious here we need to let the pack know of the inedible fight.
“Come on you two we have to... guys?” I then notice that they haven’t gotten out of the bush yet. I then parted the bush to see that they have fallen asleep. I woke them up by kicking their feet. “Get up! We have to get back to the cave and warn the others.”
“Uh, technically it’s a mine.” One of them said.
“And technically you two are going to be dead meat if you don’t get up right now!” I shouted at them.
After we made it back home I had Rover gather the rest of the dogs for me to tell them of what I have discovered. They all looked scared with good reasons.
“So that is it we are going to be forced out of our home or be doom to die by a dragon,” Spot said.
“No. We are not. We are going to get rid of the dragon. Once the dragon is gone; the other ponies will return. And then we can prosper.” I said.
“And just how are we going to get rid of a dragon Ed? It is a Dragon! Even you lost to one remember?” Rover said to my left.
Pausing for a moment I turn to look him directly in his eyes making him shudder “Yes, I do remember Rover. I remember it every day as the worst day of life. How can I ever forget screams of my pack running in fear, how can I ever forget the size and the power of that dragon, and how can I ever forget of how IT wounded me for life!?” I finished my statement raising my right arm in front of him before I put it down. “But things are different. For we know he is coming.”
“And what good will that do us?” another dog said.
“A great deal.” I then turn to face the rest of the dogs in the room.
“Let no dog mistake what is happening here. We are being oppressed by a pony and a dragon who is taking advantage of us. For they know that we won’t fight back and that we are expecting us to lay down like a good little dog, and do nothing about it.” Some of the dogs looked away from that statement. “But not anymore. We are not the little dogs that listen to what others tell us what to do. We are Diamond Dogs and it is time that we start acting like ones.” The dogs in the room nodded in agreement. “But that is only the beginning, for even if we do get rid of the dragon; other will try and take over our lives as they and others had, but I say no more!” I shouted. “We are survivors and we are fighters and we will stand up for ourselves. Let it be known! On this day, the Diamond Dogs are going to fight for our Independence.” I got a mix reaction from that.
“I know I have only known you all for a short time and now I am now asking this form you all. But know that I have had enough of seeing my fellow dog starve to death, or to be forced out of their homes they had spent their whole lives making by some greedy creature. We are not mindless creatures that are meant to be eradicated, we are Diamond Dogs and we will fight back! I will fight this dragon and any more like him how to try and take advantage of us with or without your help. So now I ask you all, will you help me fight for our future or will you lie down on the ground, like the good little dog every living thing thinks you are?”
“NO!” came a huge shout from the crowd.
“So now! If any dog wants out, let them speak now!” Not one dog objected. I then turned to face Rover and his companions.
“Alright then. Spot, I need you to wait on the surface and inform me once Greedy Hooves returns to trade with us. I would like to have a word with him.”
“On it.” He said moving towards the surface before he stops and looks at me. “Who?”
“Greedy Hooves. That the full name of the pony that has been trading with us.”
“Oh! Got it.” He then left the room as I address the rest of the dogs.
“Fido, I want you to get a team together and gather up the remaining of the supplies we have in the lower part of the mines and move them to the upper regions, as far as you can form the main entrance.”
“Got it.” He said as called out some dogs in the room to follow him.
“Rover, I want you to get your best digger together; and arm the guards for battle. Also, get a dog to give me a map of the mine.”
“You seem very confident Ed. Care to share what is your secret plan on how are we going to beat a dragon?” he asked me as every dog got to work.
I then turned to look at him with a grin. “Oh. Rover, there seems to be a mistake of my words on your part.” I said as I got the plans of the mines from another dog. “For we are not going to beat the Dragon.” I then open them up on a table nearby to start planning.
Time is at the essence now. The sooner we can prepare the mines, the greater our chances of surviving. Even with all the preparation, we are going through. There is no way of knowing if this will work.
“Ed we have finished clearing out the lower caves.”
“Good work Fido. Now I need you to move any heavy stones and anything else you can find that is sharp and moving them into the upper chambers near the north entrance, above the diggers.”
“On it.” He said as departed to reunited with his team.
Rover came by shortly afterward “We made that tunnel in the ceiling like you wanted Ed.”
“Good. Remember you are not going to break the surface just yet. Leave enough dirt there to support the weight of the objects on top of it, but thin enough so that we can break it when needed.”
“Got it. Anything else?”
“Yes, get every dog who can’t fight as far away from the trap as possible. We don’t want them getting mix up with the fight.”
“I got to say, Ed. Not two days here and you are already calling out the shots.”
“Don’t get smart with me Rover. It doesn’t suit you.”
“Whatever.” He said before he left to help out his team.
Not long afterward, Melody came into the room looking left and right at the dogs lifting, and moving everything, and everyone somewhere else. She has a worried face on her as she watches them work. While doing so, she was making her way towards me. “My mate, might I ask what is going on here?”
Bringing a paw to my eyes, as I rub them I knew I could keep this form her forever. *Sigh* “I am afraid they are preparing for the worst-case scenario my mate.” She looks at me with a gasp as she took in my words.
“But... but we just got here. Ed, please tell me we aren’t going to lose home and more dogs. It’s not fair! Can’t we just find a place to call home; without something trying to take away what little we have?” she cried to me as I bring her in for a hug, trying to calm her down.
“We are not my mate. We are not losing our new home and we are not losing any more dogs to anything. Not anymore.”
“How can you say that when there is no way of keeping that promise, Ed.” She said as tears ran down her face. The tears of fear and sorrow.
“My mate please,” I said pulling her back a little to look in her eyes. “Look at them. They too have lost much and yet they are still here. They are will to fight for what is theirs. Unlike all the other packs we have come across the years, this one is still willing to fight back. They are aware of the imminent danger that is in store for them if they stay here, but instead of running away; they are willing to fight and died for their home. That is something I having seen in another dog since our own pack. And if they are willing to fight for their home; then I am willing to fight right alongside them.” She looks away from me taking in what I am saying. I left her chin to look back at me.
“Melody I am tired of running away, tired of always losing our home to other species taking advantage of us. We were once the Diamond Dogs of the western mountains. The most respected and strongest of all the other dogs” She nods sadly remembering our old home and rubbing her belly slightly “And here we are again being forced to lose our home to a dragon. Last time it had the element of surprise to its advantage, but this time it’s now our advantage.”
“Is even possible with what we have can we do it?” she said as I wiped away some tears.
“We won’t know until we try my mate.”
“And if we should fail?” Before I could talk to my mate again. Spot came running into the room.
“Ed! Greedy Hooves is on his way here.” He said a little winded making me let go of Melody and patting him on the back.
“Thank you, Spot. Go and help out Fido’s team and inform the rest of the dogs that we are going to be expecting company soon.”
“Wait!” Melody said causing me to look back at her. “Please, no matter what happens up there. Please, Ed, come back to me.” I had no words to tell her as I stare back at her.
I then bring her in for a kiss as I look in her eye once again “I promise you I will come back.”
I can see Greedy Hooves a hundred yards from the entrance, and he is not alone. He has a large red stallion with him pulling the wagon of goods with them. Just by the looks of it, there doesn’t look like there is much in the wagon to feed all the dogs here. At most a couple of days’ worth of food. This pony is no fool coming here without some help, and judging by those shadows in the tree; it is not just the two of them I have to worry about if things go south here.
“Greeting Diamond Dog. My name is G. Hooves. I am here for our weekly trading with you. Would you mind going and telling Rover that I am here? Thank you.” He said as he wades his hoof at me as if he was shooing me away.
I knew that this pony was trouble when I heard him talk to the dragon. But guess I underestimated his attitude to us. I can see why Rover doesn’t like him. Regardless it is time to start the plan. “I am sorry Mr. Hooves but I am afraid we can’t trade with you anymore.” He looks back at me with a look of surprise.
“Hum, I see well then we will just have to come back tomorrow now won't we.”
“I am afraid you are not understanding me sir hooves. When I said, we can’t trade with you anymore, I mean forever.”
“Huh. But…” he then composed himself before he continues. “Might I ask why?”
“Because we have nothing to trade with you Hooves. During the last time, you were here. One of the dogs overlook the number of gems we had and traded almost all of them with you and the rest of them to the zebra nearby for medicine. We have nothing left to offer you but some large stones.” I said guesting to the pile of rocks nearby.
“Well, I must say this is unexpected news. *Ahem* Well then, come along then Sir Apple there is nothing left for us to do here.” He said walking back to the town while his companion looks between the two of us not sure what to do. G. Hooves takes notices. “Is there something wrong Macintosh?”
“Enope.” He said joining his boss back the way they came.
Once they are out of sight and the trees are quiet again. A smile comes to my face. “All is going according to plan. Now I just need to make sure that he does indeed send the dragon here. Spot!” said dog came up from the ground.
“Yes ED?” he said as he strikes a salute.
“The enemy has taken the bait; however, we are still not ready for them.”
“What’s wrong than Ed?”
“We need some dog to go after them to see if they are going to send the dragon. Occurs this can’t just be any dog.”
“No, sir. Not just any dog.”
“No, he would have to be rather small.”
“Yes, yes the smallest dog we got.”
“But he also has to be fast. So, he can run away if trouble were to arise.”
“Yes, fast is good.”
“But he also has got to be unnoticeable, so he can blend in the background.”
“Yep.”
“But most of all he has to be some dog that Greedy hooves haven’t seen yet.”
“Yes, that is perfect Ed. So, who is the dog you had in mind.” I then look at him with a mischievous smile. Which he notices right away as he is then stricken with terror.
“NOOO, NNNOOOO!”
“They don’t know you, they won’t suspect you.”
“Dragons scare me, he is going to eat me.” Ok, this is not going to work.
“Now Spot. Look at me.” I grab him on his right shoulder to stop him from shaking. “We are on put on this World for a purpose, and the time for your Purpose is now. Now I know that inside of this small shell of a dog” I put my paw on his chest for emphasizing “there is a volcano ready to erupt.” He looks back at me in awe and probably has no idea what I am talking about but I didn’t let that stop me. “Now I know that I have only known you for a few hours but when I saw you could become something great, something amazing Spot. You can become a legend! A legend, to let every dog know forevermore. That it was you who made sure we, your pack was ready for the dragon arrival.” I then moved to his side with my head next to his as I point my arm out in front of us. “The moment’s here Spot. Grab it. Grab it!” He then closes his paws and holds them to his chest. “Today a Jester, tomorrow a Hero!” I gave him a push on the back to send him on his way, and he does leaves, for about three seconds before he comes back.
“NOOOO!”
“Get Going!” and he is gone. *sigh* “Hopefully I can beat some sense into these dogs before to is too late.”
Night has fallen, I as waited for Spot to return. I can only hope that he is alright. Rover came earlier informing me that they have finished their work. I then told him to get every dog in position for the trap, and for the others to get to the safe zone we made earlier. It is safe and out of the way, just in case if the dragon decides to start caving in the mines. I know for a fact that I cannot win against it in a head-on fight. My only chance of victory is to lure it into the trap.
Rover wanted to use some of the guards to lure it, but I disagreed with him, on the grounds that a dog who never faced a dragon before would run away in terror rather than towards the trap. That and I couldn’t stand to know that another dog would fall prey to a dragon when I could do something about it. But then again last time it didn’t turn out so well.
I then looked into my pocket seeing the gems shines back at me. I could use them to give me an advantage, but the consequences of doing so aren't worth it. Frustration fills my body as I closed my pocket, I haven’t felt this hopeless since I saw my home in flames.
Soon the ground nearby started to pile upon itself in a tunnel-like fashion heading towards me.
I then grab a branch and stick it in the ground in front of the digger as it collides with it, stopping in its track, shaking the branch. I reach into the ground and pulled out a small and dizzied Diamond Dog.
“There you are Spot. It is good to see you again.”
“Nice to see all of you too.”
I then set him down on his feet “What news do you bring?”
He then shook his head before speaking “Oh, yes, after other ponies left Hooves, he blew some horn and three minutes later the dragon appeared before him. I came right back once I saw the beast.”
“Good, and thank you Spot. Now go inside and let the others know.”
“Right!” he then ran towards the cave but stop when I didn’t follow him. “What about you? Aren’t you coming along?”
“Well, someone has to greet our guest to our home.”
“You are one strange dog, Ed,” Spot said shaking his head side to die before disappearing into the mine.
Three minutes later I could then hear the sound of the wind turning direction sending leaves off the branches, before a huge mass drop-out from the sky in front of me, sending dust everywhere. Covering my eyes, I wait for the dust to settle to see Nova kneeling on one knee with his fists out to his sides along with his wings, as he slowly lifts his head staring at me with a predictor grin.
“Hello there, mutt.”
I didn’t show fear instead, I dusted myself out before I spoke to him “Hello Nova.”
His smile leaves his face in the revelation of his name, “How do you know my name?”
 Grin comes to my face, “You tell me. After all, I am just a dumb dog.”
Anger filled his face as he stood up “It doesn’t matter.” He then cracks his knuckles “It’s time for you dogs to leave, this is my mine now.”
“Well, you see now we have a problem on our paws then.” I then start pacing side to side “For you see us dogs, we like it here. It’s nice here, a good mine, it far from danger, and no rude neighbors.”
“Stop talking dog and died!” he then unleashed a large breath of fire at me. I then slam my leg into the ground forcing a hidden shield to jump out from the dirt. I grab it with my good arm to block the flames, only for it turn red hot and melt. I toss it away before I got seriously burned.
“You are going to had to do better than that lizard!” I mocked him as I ran into the mine with an angry dragon behind me.
“You and your pack will die!” he yelled as he chased me.
Due to his size he couldn’t use his wings and had to chase on foot. Whenever he would get close to me, I would make a sharp turn forcing him to slow down, or crashing into the walls. I would even pull some stashes of gems and throw them at his face disorienting him. I have the advantage from now, but I can’t keep this up forever, I need to lead him into the trap.
As the case goes on I had lead Nova down three levels into the mines, used three shields and five gems bags. I can make, it just a little more, “What is wrong Nova. I thought dragons were supposed to be powerful, how hard can it be to catch one handy-capped dog?”
“I will show you power!” he then started to send fireballs after me but was missing. His anger has clouded his judgment and has decreased his aim. We just turn the last corner to the trap, but then the unexpected happened. A pup had wandered away from the safety of the pack and is in front of us.
Time seemed to slow down as I saw the horror unfold in front of me. Nova was sending a pillar of fire on the pup. Without a second thought, I ran in front of the fire to protect the pup as I reach into my bag and crushing three of the gems inside, sending a green smoke surrounding us before the fire consume us.
Nova smile to himself, believe that he had killed a troublesome dog. He turned his attention to a female dog, who had appeared from the same tunnel where the pup had come from. She must have come here looking for the lost pup but found him instead. She stared at the fire of burning dogs with fear before she notices the dragon before her “You dog are next.”
Scare for her life she ran away from him as fast as she could, however, it didn’t take long before she was cornered by the beast on the second level. She was no warrior and was terrified by the dragon as he closed in on her, but before he could harm her, Nova felt a pain to his side. Looking to his left Nova can see Rover pulling out a diamond spear from his side getting ready for another thrust. “Augh! You mutt!” he then back slaps Rover sending him flying across the mine into a wall. Nova snapped the spear before tossing in two different directions, before moving towards the down dog. “Did you really think that would have been enough to stop ME?” he asked Rover as he limped away from the dragon in fear.
“No, I knew I needed more dogs with me to do that,” Rover said weakly
“I see so you were trying to commit suicide then. Allow me to help you with that then.”
“No, I was just giving her some time to get away from you.” He said as the other dog was looking at him behind a corner.
“A brave dog. That’s a new one.” Nova then grabs Rover by the throat lifting him up in the air choking him “In exchange for the hero act, I will make sure that your death is painless.” He said bringing his claws back for the final blow as Rover closed his eyes.
“After you!” another voice said behind them as another dragon slightly smaller than Nova, tackle him making him drop Rover as it started pushing Nova into the lower levels. The two struggles with one another but the new dragon would not let up and continue to push.
Rover just sat there in shock seeing a friendly dragon helping them. He tried to get up but a paw stops him. The dog from earlier came back to him with some bandages and started to help him. But Rover tried to stop her “Not now I can wait, but that dragon must be dealt with.”
But she didn’t let him up “ROVER! You are no good to any dog in your condition right now. Let me help you before you hurt yourself too much that no one can help you.’ He stops as he listens to her before he lets her continues “Besides I think that new dragon might just that care us the other one for us.”
Clawing, biting, punching Nova unleashed everything at his disposal to get this dragon off of him but nothing worked. It wasn’t until they had reached a large chamber in the lower levels that the dragon pushed Nova away from itself.
Once righting himself Nova address his new foe “I don’t know why you are here, or why you are helping these dogs, but I will not tolerate it. Anyone that gets in my way will be eliminated!”
“Are you going to just talk there all night or are we going to finish this?”
“Lets.” The two dragons charge at one another wrestling with one another. As their fight continues the room was getting filled with guard dogs coming out from the ground, blocking the exits. Ready their spears they were going to attack but Fido told them to fall back as he notices what room they were in.
Once the last guard dog left Nova had forced his foe onto the floor with its face under his claw. “You know what kid? It has been a while since I had this must fun fighting another dragon.” He then raises his claw in the air “I will take great pleasure in killing you and then every single dog here.”
However, the defeated dragon only laugh as it saw some diamond dogs near the ceiling of their room, “Sorry to burst your bubble Nova, but I was never meant to defeat you.”
“What?”
“I was only making sure that you stay in this room long enough for my dogs to get ready.” He said as the doorways of the room cave in on themselves.
“WHAT!?”
“NOW FIDO!”
As fast as they could a pack of Diamond dogs dug through the ceiling weakening it before they got out of the way to the level above them. The ceiling shook as dirt, rocks, and gems started to fall from above. Before Nova could breathe fire to stop them, the other one used its tail to trip him onto his back as he got on top of Nova and putting a claw onto his throat stopping him from breathing any more fire.
“You fool! You will get us both killed!” Nova said trying to get out of the dragon’s grasp but couldn’t.
“Maybe” sharp started to metals fell from the ceiling “but then again” the room then started to darken as hail like stones falls onto the dragons. “I am just a dumb dog, now aren’t I?”
THUUMD!
As the dust settles the Diamond dog look down into the hole. They could see a dragon with half its body trapped underneath the rubble. As for the other dragon, the was nothing to be found but a Diamond dog trapped under the rubble.
The dogs stare in confusion as they tried to figure out how did that dog get trap down there. It wasn’t until Rove came into the room we someone knew who the dog was “ED!? What are you doing down there?”
His shout woke up the dragon as he stares in disbelief at the dog in front of him. “How? It’s not possible. I killed you dog. I saw you burn.”
“The answer is quite simple really. I used soul gems to save my life and that of the pups. Then I used the remainder of said energy to change my body into something that could take you head on.”
“What are you talking about dog?” Nova sneered at him before coughing out blood, “There are no such things as soul gems, they are only an old pony’s tale.”
“Believe what you want Nova, but I know this for sure. We Diamond Dogs of Pony Ville Mine have just defeated you.” The was cheering coming from above them as dog’s cheer in victory.
“Enjoy this while you can dog. For you are just as doom for death as am I. So, in the end, I will kill you mutt.”
“Think again lizard.” Ed then pulls out a green gem from his pocket “For it is only you who will not see the sunrise tomorrow Nova.” Ed said before he eats a soul gem. His body glowed green before he forced his body out of the rubble and going next to Nova’s head.
“So, still had an ace up your sleeve,” Nova said but then Ed summoned Komi to his side and stab Nova in the head.
“Yes, I did dragon.” He then removed Komi and let Nova fall to the ground dead. He then looks up to his fellow dogs to see them in shock of what he just did. “I will explain everything later, but for now let’s clea-” Ed started but passed out once Komi disappeared.
When Ed woke up he found himself back in his room with Melody on his side asleep. He had no idea how long he was asleep but that can wait. He then started to rubbing her side to slowly wake her up. After a few minutes, she did without opening her eyes.
“You used them again didn’t you.” She said emotionless as he continues to rub her.
“There wasn’t much choice my mate.”
“There is always another choice Ed, but I am not upset this time,” she said moving her body closer to his. “But you know what happens every time you used them like that Ed. He said nothing to that as she continues “Sometimes I think of what life would be like without you Ed, and it scares me. She then looks into his eyes “Please don’t scare me like that again.”
“I will do my best.” He then sat up but wincing in pain before lying back down. “What happen while I was out?”
“Rover got the dogs to buried that dragon in the hole where you left it. Then called the others out of hiding, and sent Spot to look for any ponies in the area, so he can tell them that the problem with the dragon has been taken care of. That was three days ago.
“Is that all?”
“Yes, Ed. Things have been rather peaceful since the fight with the dragon.”
“And Greedy Hooves?”
“I believe I can answer that.” Rover said entering the room. “just got word from Spot that he was trying to sell our mine to some ponies saying it would make a great storage area. But when Spot told the ponies that we would defend our home. Old Hooves started running home when he when he got to the part about the dragon and who it worked for.” He chuckles at that “I guess he lost his potential customers and decide it was a good time to leave town.”
“Good riddance.”
“Indeed, but you know he will be back. We were his best suppliers of gems for miles from here, and he lost his business to a bunch of lowly dogs.”
“One thing at a time Rover. As for now, I believe I have some answering to do.”
“Yes, you do. For Starters, how in the world did you turn into a dragon!?!"
“Soul gems.”
“What are Soul gems?”
“They are exactly what they sound like. I had a few of them with me before the dragon attacks us. I wasn’t planning on using them, but I could let that pup die just because she was at the wrong place at the wrong time.”
“So, these soul gems, what can they do anyway, besides turning you into a dragon?”
“Well turning into a dragon is new, but normally just crushing one gem, can give anyone great strength, and can heal wounds for a short time. But crushing more than one can be unpredictable. In this case, it turned me into something that can withstand fire.”
“Is that all they can do?”
“No this is one more thing they can do. If one is skilled enough with magic, one can summon the soul that is trap within the gem to their aid.”
“That sounds awesome! Can you show me how to do that Ed?!”
“No.”
“No?”
“Rover I only have one gem left, and there is something else. There is a high cost for using such powerful gems.”
“And what might that be?”
“Each time I use up a soul gem, I will lose one year of my own life.”
“That sounds like a lot to me. Considering that we don’t have much of a year span, to begin with.” Rover said rubbing his forehead “But now onto the next question. What was that sword you used? I have never seen anything quite like it.”
“It is called Uhane Komi. It means ‘soul blade’. It is how I make soul gems.”
“How does it work?”
“Once I kill a creature with it, the body turns into dust that condenses into the gem.”
“But wait. If that was the case, then why didn’t it work on the dragon you just killed?”
“A dragon’s life force is too big for me to seal in a gem. Thus, it would only die when I stab it instead of turning into a soul gem.”
“I see. So, Ed, might I ask how you acquired such a blade?”
“That is a story for another time Rover. If you haven’t already noticed I become very weak after using those gems. I need some more time to rest to regain my strength.”
“Ok I understand, but please tell me one more than Ed. If the gems take away a year off your life, then how many more years do you have left?” this caused Melody to cling to me tighter.
“We will never discuss that topic ever again Rover.” He was going to object. “EVER!” he hushed up.
“Sorry, Ed.” He looks around the room for a bit “I better go and see how things are going with getting supplies with the ponies again. I will be back later.” He then left us alone.
No words were said when he left us, for unintentionally or not, Rover just asked the question I have been dreading since the day I found out how to use these gems. I never told Melody the extant number of times I used them, but she knows it is a lot. And I know I that even if the rest of my years are filled with happiness and good fortune; I would never live to see my grandchildren.
A week has passed since the fight with Nova. I still haven’t regained my full strength yet, but at least I can walk on my own again.
Trading with the ponies has started up again. At least now we don’t have to worry about food as much anymore. However, I can’t help but wonder for how long this will last. During the latest trade with them, I saw fear and disgust in their eyes. It is only a matter of time before these ponies try something to get their way again. I can’t let that happen.
And then there is the matter of a little pest we will have to deal with. I reach in my bag to pull out the soul gem that holds the soul of the changeling I kill up to my eye. The green gems shine in the light of day relieving an image of the soul trap within. I don’t know if this changeling was a spy from her Majesty herself or a drone gone rogue. But if it was a spy surely, she would have sent more to see what has happened to her precious bug.
Regardless, we have more important matters to deal with right now. I put the gem away and went back inside the mine. I made my way to Rover’s room, to discuss our next move. However, I wasn’t expecting to find him and his mate performing intimacy when I enter the room. We stare at each other for three seconds before I left them alone. Once they were decent they called me back into the room.
“You could have knocked you Know!”
“On what door?” I then point to the entrance of the room “That’s a curtain.”
“Then announce that you are outside!”
“Can we drop this pointless argument?”
“Fine Ed. What did you want?”
“I came to discuss the next step into bettering our pack’s lives.”
“Right, so what is our next step?”
“Now that the trade with the ponies has been improving. We can now look for means of becoming self-efficient.”
“Uhm why do we need to do that? The vendors from the town will provide what we need for some of our gems.”
“Rover it was that kind of thing that got our pack into the mess it was in earlier, to begin with. Once we have become self-efficient we will rely less on the vendors for our dailies needs.”
“I get you.”
“However, one can’t become self-efficient overnight. We are going to need to find a way to get our own food and kept it safe.”
“Right, if we aren’t careful with how much food we got we might get some unwanted attention.”
“I assume that is one of the reasons that you don’t go and buy no more than a week worth of food for the pack?”
“Unfortunately, we learn that the hard way. Years back when the trade was good. We struck a Huge deal on getting enough apples for the whole pack for two months.”
“That’s a lot of apples.”
“It was. However, a group of timber wolves caught sent of them.”
“Why would Timber Wolves even bother with the smell of apples? They can’t eat them they are carnivores.”
“That was what we thought during the time as well. But for some reason they did and they came running straight to our cave. We could fend them off, but every night they would come and try again. This went on for days weeks even. We would kill them only for them to pull themselves back together and try again. We lost many good dogs to them.”
“What happened then?”
“I was ordered by the Alpha during the time to take a group of dogs and barricade ourselves in the mine.”
“The last stand.”
“He thought that if the Timber Wolves realize that there are no more dogs here they would leave.”
“What did you do?”
“I begged him to abandon the mine and lead the pack to a new home. But he said that the chances of us find a new home where we have a chance to live a normal life where ponies can accept us to a degree would be impossible.”
“I can see why he said that.”
“Well, in the end, I did as he said and kept the pack underground for two weeks. Once the food ran out I made the first step outside. And to this day I will never forget what I saw.” He trembles lightly in remembrance before his mate went next to him and hug him.
“You don’t have to continue your story, Rover.”
“It’s ok. I can handle it. In the end, we buried our dead and morn for their loss. Soon after I was made Alpha so now I take care of every dog here.”
“So, there is no way we can increase our food supply without letting the Timber Wolves know we are still here?”
“Well that the thing. Ever since the dragon was nearby, the Timber Wolves didn’t even come close to the mine, but now that the dragon is dead.”
“I have doomed the pack.”
“It is not your fault Ed. You didn’t know. And besides, if you didn’t take care of the dragon we probably would have died of starvation.”
“But now we have to deal with Timber Wolves”
“Got any ideas, Ed?”
“I got a few. Gather up the dogs Rover. We got some dig to do.”
Once the dogs were gathered I pull out a diagram of the mine’s entrance.
“Now here is what we need to do. We are going to have to set up a perimeter around the entrance. Then we start digging a trench of at least fifth teen feet deep and Twenty feet wide.”
“But Ed. The Timber Wolves will just jump over the trench.”
“Not if we fasten some gems on stakes and have them facing out towards the trench. We are going to need a wall high enough to stop them from jumping over easily and strong enough to stay together.”
“Now how are we going to build that! No of us here knows how to build walls that will do the job.”
“I have experience in building defenses to protect dens before. The only reason that the defenses failed to protect us was that a dragon found us.”
“Wait. what do you mean found? I thought he attack your den?”
“Well, that was our defense from dragons during the time, camouflage. Our den entrance was hidden from plain sight that the only… way... too…” that the only way to find it was if you know where it is.
“Ah, Ed? You ok there?”
“Forget it. Anyways, I will be supervising the building of the wall, while Rover’s team digs the trench. We don’t know when the Timber Wolves will come, and they will, we have to get these projects done A.S.A.P.” It got quiet for some reason. when I look at the dogs they were looking at each other in confusion until one of them spoke up.
Fire burns away the trees in the forest. in the middle of it, Dogs are running in terror at the attack of young dragons. I don't know why they are here. But they have made it clear of their purpose here. They are here to kill us all. The brave ones stand to fight the dragons. Only to be struck down by their great might. We didn't ask for this; they came without warning. Our pack isn't strong enough to fight them, we are doomed. Our only hope is to run. Run and hide. To live and see another day. But I can't leave this place yet. I must find keep searching... keep searching. Searching for my mate.
"Melody! Melody!" I shout into the chaos but nothing seemed to be working. I continue to run dodging a dog the was sent flying. "Melody! Melody!" I shouted again. I don't see her. I can't find her. But I have to I can't leave her here. "Melody! Melody! Melody!"
"Ed?"
I woke up from my daydream to see that one of the workers was talking to me. "What is it?" I asked him standing up straight.
"I came to ask you a question about the wall we are making and the defensives. That is if it is all right with you?" he asked as Rover came next to me once he heard some dog asking about my plans for our defenses for our home.
"Ask away," I told the worker.
"I was wondering. Wouldn't it be easier for us to make a way to close up the entrances to the cave instead of all this?" he said pointing out the construction work away around the entrance of the cave.
Rover didn't take to kindly to the comment though. "You dare question Ed's judgment and intellect dog!"
"No, I..."
"It is fine. Rover. Such questions must be asked if answers are to be given." I told Rover calming him down with a paw to his shoulder. "You have a fair point. That would be easier however that is also our secondary defensive option."
"I don't understand."
"Let me explain. Oh, course closing the entrance to the cave would be Ideal for stopping the enemy from getting the dogs inside the cave and giving them a chance to escape or fight back. However, say that the enemy was only trying to trick us into doing as such so that the dogs above ground wouldn't be able to get away fast enough."
Rover starts seeing what I am saying am joins in. "That is right. With gems that are naturally found in this area. Any dog that tries to dig down would stop and try to get them."
"Which will have them dead for they forgot about the enemy tries to kill them."
The worker dog nods at this but he still has some questions. "But, what about that is not the case and the dogs do get away?"
It is good to see that there are dog's here that wish to pursued knowledge. I answer his question without a second thought. "Why then the tunnel that they leave behind will leave a straight path into the heart of our caves system."
The young worker eyes go bigger as he sees the problem and solutions to his questions. "Then the enemy would just have to go down the tunnel the dog made and..."
"And we would lose the battle and our lives." Rover finish for him.
"So that is why we are making this wall."
"Indeed. If our forces aren't able to fight off the enemy all we have to do is retreat to the caves and close off the entrance."
"And the wall will make give them enough time to make it back into the caves and shut the enemy out." "But then how do we know when it is safe to open the caves again?"
"You let me worry about that. Right now you just help out your pack with the wall understand?"
"Yes, sir." He said rejoining the workers.
Two days have passed since we have started building the defense around our home. Even with every dog doing their best we are still only halfway done. With the shortage of gems available we are trading what we could with the ponies for food, water, and tools. If we don’t find a way to become self-efficient soon. I fear that what Rover said becoming a reality.
A day ago I came across a usual root growing out of cave wall and notice that it could be eatable. However, I am not risking any dogs lives to find out. I sent Spot out with a sample to a zebra in the forest to get her thought about it. Normally I would have sent him to a trusted dog, however, there are none nearby that would. I can only hope that this zebra knows what she doing. For the fate of the pack depends on her knowledge.
I then made my way to a guard tower we complete last night. I can see the guard dog looking around in the distance to see any signs of danger.
I called out to him. “Report.”
“All clear. No signs of anything that will want to harm… SQUIRREL!”
We all looked in the direction of where he said the squirrel was at. But at last, it got away. Say what you want but in my opinion, a squirrel is the best fast food you can get your paws on.
"As you were saying," I asked the guard who almost left off his tower and straighten himself out.
"All clear." He said,
"It is never all clear. Not as long as there are things out there that want to kill us."
"Yes, sir."
I then make my way back to the cave and stop then I heard a dog cry out in pain. Looking to my left I see that a dog drop a wood beam on another dogs paw. He is holding his paw and hop around for a bit before falling on his rear. I can hear the dog nearby laughing at the sudden accident. But as I look at the scene in front of me, I can help but feel saddens in my heart. His pain is only tempory and he can recover from it, unlike me. I look down to my useless paw and clench my other paw. Before I could think a soft voice interrupts my thoughts.
"Ed?" I turn to my right I can see that Melody has come to see me. "How are things going?"
"As good as we can hope. My mate." I say to her then kiss her. "Is there something wrong? This is the first time I see you out of the cave since we got here?"
"I was wondering if it alright if I can perform the moon howling ceremony?"
"It is not safe yet to do such a thing Melody."
"But it has been months Ed and Ma..."
"MELODY It..." I raise my voice at her but stop once I realize what I was doing "It is not safe yet. Please hold on out my mate." I can see tears in her eyes before she runs back into the cave. I can see other dogs wondering what just happen while others pretend not to listen. "Back to work everyone." I then went to check up on the dogs inside the caves.
Later on that day I received word that Spot has returned along with the Zebra. I don't know why he asks the Zebra to come along but I better find out. Once to the surface, I can see that they failed to mention to me that there are also ponies here beside the zebra. One adult and a young one both mares. The adult has an orange coat and gold mane and wears a brown hat while the young one is yellow with a red mane and matching bow on her head. I look that them and notice that the guards have surrounded them and seem to be keeping their distance from them. Mostly the adult.
"I wasn't told about the two earth ponies," I said to one of the guards
"Sir they just arrive right after Spot return with the Zebra.
"Her name is Zecora!" the young one said but was hushed by the older mare.
"Applebloom not now."
I then got close to them and stop in front of the older mare. "I know of what business we have with the Zebra, but what reason do you two have being here?"
"I came to apologize on behalf of my little sister for ruining your root...Ah, Spot had while he was visiting Zecora."
"Can I assume that the root was destroyed in an accident?" I asked her getting an idea of what happened.
"Yes." She said surprise in my choice of words.
"Then you two may leave."
"But I was wondering If you have any more of that root?"
"You know of it?"
"Well maybe. But I need to make sure that it was what I thought it was."
"That is why I sent Spot to Zecora." I then pulled out another root I grab on my way up from the cave. "Do you know of this?"
"Yes as one would find in a stew. This will make a lovely brew." Zecora said taking the root in her hooves. "This is the Malburen root. Normally found in the deep caves of southern Equestria. The Malburen root has been known to give a restless filly a quick nap."
Applebloom looked surprised for some reason and looked to Zecora. "How come you didn't rhyme that time."
She looks at Applebloom with a smile "My apologies young Appleebloom but there aren't many words that can rhyme with Malburen. As smoothly as other words can."
As much as I would like to hear these ponies talk about their daily lives. There is more pressing matter, so I interrupt their train of thought. "Can we get back to business without worrying about if somepony can rhyme or not?"
"Oh, course Ed," Zecora said whole giving me back the root.
"IS this root worth anything?"
She nods her head at my statement. "Very much so Ed. It is quite rare. So rare that someponies collected them to the point of extinction. Due to their unusual properties of making any creature that consumes them to fall asleep very quickly."
"But what use can ponies need for such a thing?" Rover asked not understanding what so special about this root.
"Rover if a pony needs to rest to heal themselves then this is the fastest way of doing it," I said to Rover before addressing the ponies again. "However I am with Rover one Zecora. Don't you ponies have something like this already?"
"Yes but this root is better."
"I don't want to go into details about that than and take your word for it." I then look at the root one more time before putting it away. "So the ponies that would want this would be the healers of your kind."
"Along with others, but yes. So Is it to much trouble that I can have some of them."
I can see that this Zebra really wants this root, however, there are more pressing matters that need to be resolved, and she is a good step in doing so. "We don't need your money."
My answer to them cause them to pause before Zecora replied, "Parden?"
"Bits have no value with us."
"Then what would you trade for them?"
"Supplies of food, water, medicine, and refind metal."
"Oh. Well, then I can help you with medicine and water. But I don't believe you all would want anything that I eat, and I have no access to any sort of metal."
"Then we will find another pony for the other two. When can you bring the first shipment of supplies?"
"It will take me a while to brew up what you are asking for along with finding somepony to transfer the supplies."
"My brother can help out with that and for food do you dogs like Apples?"
"Keep talking Miss..." I said holding out my good paw to her for a friendly shake.
'Applejack. My name is Applejack." She said shaking my paw.
