I...Failed?

Ben took a deep breath. “So! How can I help you today?” He asks honestly, seeing the armored man.

“First off… the hell is she doing here?” The man asked.

“Before you suddenly burst in we were having a nice conversation before I had to fight her and her buddy.” The white cloaked being explains. “By the way it’s nice to meet you, name’s Ben.” He says with a nod.

“Zeke, and… I’m sorry, you look like something I fought in my Mark of Mastery exam.”

“Is it the white cloak?” Ben asks curiously.

“Yeah, how’d you guess?”

“As far as I know these cloaks only come in black, so if you said you saw something like me then it’s a little obvious.” He shrugs.

“Judging from your speech, you’re from earth also?”

“That is correct.” He nods. “And I’ve heard quite a bit about you my fine friend, being apart of some murder family yet being a nice guy travels fast.” He says, knowing ‘Yellow’ told him that but still.

Zeke was silent. “I’m gonna ask, are you with Core, or against them?”

“Well I’m supposed to be fighting against them so there’s that.” Ben shrugs. “Ms. Core here, or ‘Yellow’ as you called her, and her buddy Jet were supposed to be a little...test I suppose.” He says honestly. “But me and you have a lot to talk about...like a lot a lot.”

“Your time is up.” Yellow said, getting up and walking over the Jet.

“How did I miss him?” Zeke questioned.

“He’s half Invisible. That’s why.” He says in a half joking manner..

“Har har.” Zeke replies. “Well, in any case, this won’t be good.” He arched his back, and the Xehanort's guardian appeared. “Might as well go full out.”

“Can we at least move to somewhere less….populated? Please?” Ben asked, summoning his Duskblade and getting up, moving closer to Zeke while looking at his new opponents.

Yellow turned into a Keyblade, Jet wielding her. “Time to begin.” It was a haze, one swing and both Zeke and Ben were thrown through the wall of Rarity’s kitchen and rolled on the ground until they stopped.

“Well fuck.” Zeke said, getting up quickly.

“You don’t say?” Ben asked, raising his left hand and focusing, summoning Vexen’s shield and slightly surprising me that I still felt his keyblade in his other hand. “Thank god.” He muttered before getting up and readying himself.

“I’ll ask later.” Zeke said, summoning another Keyblade. “Discord, now or never.”

“Again, we have a lot to talk about.” He says, not really surprised to see Discord as a Keyblade considering a part of his heart was turned into the blade he has now.

Zeke raised Discord into the air. “Chaos realm.” Jet, Ben and Zeke were all swallowed into a bubble, to which reality seemed to be falling apart. “This should be safe for a fight.”

“Oh dear…” Ben muttered. “Shit’s about to get weird…” He muttered before taking a careful step forwards towards Jet.

“Dark mass.” He said, summoning a large orb of darkness that circled around him.

Zeke charged in. Swinging Discord. “Reality Shift!” His attack met the orb, and it was destroyed.

Jet jumped back. “Unexpected.”

Glass shattering could be heard before I swung one of Xaldin’s lances down towards Jet while he was distracted, stabbing the being in the shoulder before I grabbed a second lance and thrusted another one towards him, hoping the second hit will land.

He caught it, and shoved it though Ben as he threw him off. Zeke ran over to Ben. “Healing hit.” Zeke tapped Ben on his head with Discord, and Ben’s injury vanished. “Man this comes in handy.”

“Lucky…” Ben frowned before getting up and summoning Saix’s claymore, ready for Jet to make his attack.

Jet lifted his Keyblade into the air. “Hellhounds.” What looked like Neoshadow Dogs appeared from behind him and charged at us.

“Fuck.” Zeke said, throwing the X-blade into a Strike Raid, destroying one.

Ben dismissed the claymore and brought out two Gun Arrows, starting to fire at the other dogs. The bolts of light destroyed one of the dogs and stunned another before he was forced to reload his weapons. “This is just great.” Ben mutters, not liking how this guy could summon allies easily while he was piss poor at it.

“Two can play at that.” Zeke says, his Xehanort's Guardian pulsating with Darkness as a Darkside rises from the ground. “Thank god that worked.” He muttered.

“How come everyone knows how to summon things like a champ while I can barely make two Dusks?” Ben asks with a frown, feeling a tad bit weak when seeing both Zeek and Jet’s actions.

“Practice… this was the first time I actually did that.” Zeke admits. “Been around for nearly a year.” The Darkside Zeke summoned took swipes at the Hellhounds, vanquishing them instantly.

“Been at this for all of a week or so.” Ben sighs out, dismissing his weapons and summoning his Keyblade and Vexen’s shield. “Got a plan? Cause I’d rather not run in like an idiot.” He asks, hoping Zeke has a plan.”

“This reality bubble won’t hold forever.” Ben looked at Zeke confused, clearly hearing the different voice.

“Gonna ask later.” Ben says before waving his keyblade up and summoning five Creepers, the nobodies muzzles glowing brightly before two move towards Jet and three close in on themselves and start pulsing.

“Any suggestions Discord?” Another voice from Zeke spoke.

“One, Just slash him Zeke.”

“Alright.” Zeke’s voice spoke.

The three creepers suddenly vanished, appearing above Jet as spears descended on the half heartless. “Well let’s get moving.” Ben says before moving forward, using his Creepers as a distraction to move forward, the two other creepers turning into swords and swing at Jet as well as Ben slashed at Jet with his keyblade, thankfully landing our hits.

Zeke rushed in fast, swinging Discord. Zeke landed the hit, and Jet was given what looked like a tear of darkness across his back, he quickly was being swallowed by it, until only the tear remained floating in the air. The bubble vanished, and Zeke and Ben were left standing in Rarity’s back yard looking at the tear. “Well… that was a thing…” Zeke said.

“Seemed...too easy…” Ben frowns, the creepers appearing next to him as he kept his shield and blade at the ready.

“Fight’s not over, I sent him to a place where someone could help us. Jump in you idiots!” The first voice spoke, making Zeke and Ben look at each other.

“Onward.” Ben says before dismissing the creepers and dashing through the portal with reckless abandon.

Zeke followed close, and the two were in for a… rather rocky ride.

Eclipse, Twilight’s twin brother, was wandering around town, getting used to having to moving around. Damn, it’s been awhile since I’ve had two legs. He thought as he neared Rarity’s shop. His dark, purple, messy hair with it’s blue and red streaks partly covered his blue-green eyes and the wind blew down the street. Looking around at other ponies, he wish he didn’t stand out with his darkening gray coat.

He expected to encounter drama, as this is Rarity he was talking about. He, however, was not expecting a rift to open up above the ground in front of the shop. “Well shit….can’t go one day can I?”

Three people came out of it, first was a man, with the body of an Invisible Heartless, and the head of a human, then a man in a white version of an Organization XIII cloak, wielding a, what he would call a ‘Duskblade’ and a familiar blue shield, and the third, was someone in black Ventus armor, wielding what looked like a Keyblade for Discord, and the X-blade.

“Yeah, can’t go one day.” He said in response

The one in the black armor got up first. “Damn, where are we now?”

“Fuck if I know.” The one in the white cloak groaned before getting up. “Note to self, don’t jump through portals all willy nilly.” He grumbles.

The one with the Invisible body stood up. “Test is not yet over.” He said, rushing in for an attack.

“Well, sorry to interrupt, but I kinda need to get to Rarity...so I’ma going to burst your bubble, but the test is over.” Eclipse says before summoning Oathkeeper and Oblivion to his side.

“And here I thought Huxley was trying to cosplay Roxas.” The one in the blackarmor comments.

“Says the one in Black Ventus armor and the X-blade, being a Elementary schooler's OC.”

“How about you both shut up for five seconds alright!” The one in the white cloak yells. “Fuck this isn’t a schoolyard rant!”

“Oh, it isn’t? My bad, I thought we were in candy land.” He looks around. “I retract my statement.”

The half Invisible looked at the newcomer. “Distraction.” He took one swing at the pony, and sent him flying through Rarity’s home.

“Again… really?” The black armored man says.

“Wow, he can actually hit. Haven’t met anypony who could since Nightmare.” Eclipse said, revealing a reflect spell over him.

The black armored and white cloaked people run over to him. “Names Zeke, that’s Ben, you alright?” Zeke asked.

“I’m fine, Rarity is going to be pissed….again...but that’s nothing.” He says, standing up from a crouched position. “The name’s Eclipse...well at least, it has been for eighteen years.”

“Out beats the both of us.” Zeke commented. “Nonetheless, you haven't ever fought against one of Core’s creations…”

“Who the hell is Core, and why come to my world? I was planning on a nap later.” He says, getting into a fighting position.

“Well too bad, life sucks and shit isn’t going to work like that.” The man in white says simply. “But all I can say is that Core is a bad guy, and he’ll be happy to find another person that interests him.”

“As long as he stays away from Twilight….” Eclipse mumbles as he stares straight at the Invisible hybrid. “So, who’s ugly?”

“That would be Jet, a powerful being that works for Core.” Ben says simply.

“And his Keyblade is one of Core’s reflections, Yellow.” Zeke answers.

“So let me get this straight…..We have a half Heartless, wielding a Keyblade made of a multiverse version of this Core person, and you two unintentionally dragged me into this?”

“Was Discord’s plan.” Zeke replies.

“I take full blame.” Discord’s voice says from Zeke’s mouth.

“Trust me Eclipse, whether Discord was to blame or not you were going to be apart of this anyways, whether you liked it or not.” Ben says with a frown, still staring at Jet and ready for the fight to continue.

“Fine...Guess no holding back then?”

“Not at all.” Zeke said, his Xehanort’s guardian reappearing, wielding Keyblades also. “Oh, that’s new.”

“Unexpected.” Jet says, looking at the Heartless attached to Zeke’s back. “Core will be informed about this.”

“Screw off!” Zeke yelled, throwing both the X-blade and Discord in to Reflect Raids.

Eclipse dashes forward in a flash and yells, “Now!” Before his Keyblades glow and start to fight for themselves.

“Show offs!” A different voice called from Zeke.

Sorry!

No your not!

“Nice to see you again Oathkeeper… Go eat shit Oblivion.” Zeke catches Discord and X from the Raid attack

“Knock it off you three.” He comments, going in for a frontal attack on Jet.

“Quit talking and fight.” I say while dashing towards Jet.

“Duh!” Zeke yelled, vanishing and appearing behind Jet and making a cross slash attack, knocking the half Heartless down for a moment.

“Combat has improved.” Jet says.

“Improve this!” Ben shouts before ramming his shield down onto Jet’s head.

Eclipse pants and sweats as if he is doing all the work his keyblades are doing as he launches a cure onto both Zeke and Ben.

“Thanks.” Zeke rushes around Jet, delivering four blows, two from his Keyblades, and the other two from the ones the Guardian holds.

“Dark Void.” Jet says… The sky quickly goes dark and eyes start to replace where the stars and moon would be. “Impact level two.” He mutters, as all goes black. Pain beyond definition rushed through Ben, Eclipse, and Zeke. Then, the sky turns to normal, and the three lay on the ground, groaning in agony.

Jet’s Keyblade shifts back into yellow Core. “Only at level two, hoped for more resistants.” She said, walking up to them.

Oathkeeper and Oblivion rushed past her, landing in front of Eclipse, and lose their glow.

“Ow…” Ben groans in pain, his weapons disappearing after being hit by something so painful.

Zeke’s guardian, and a chunk of his armor backside are gone, revealing a large bleeding patch of skin. “D, damn you.” He grunts.

Eclipse has seemingly fainted, his heart not strong to begin with.

“Hate...this….” Ben groans, trying to move himself even if he was beyond pain right now.

“Not yet strong enough.” She says, kicking Eclipse to the side and walking over to Ben and Zeke, holding both by their neck’s. “You are improving, that’s the good news, but you barely scratched Jet, and couldn’t even handle Dark Void?”

“What….is it with you people….and monologues…..” Eclipse mumbles, making u to hear this.

She looked over to Eclipse, dropping Zeke and Ben. “So you woke up, maybe you are worth a look at after all.”

“Ha….try your luck, you might just….. get the ….losing hand.”

She picked him up by his head hair. “You sure about that?” She grabbed his left foreleg, and squeezed, an audible cracking and gushing of blood happend as Eclipse’s screamed in agony. “Still weak.”

“AT LEAST I FIGHT!” Eclipse yells at her, tears blinding him.

She went close to his ear. “If I fought… it wouldn’t last long.“ She tossed him over her head, throwing him near Zeke and Ben. “Let’s go Jet, we gathered some surprising data.” The two entered a DTD, and vanished.

Ben shakily got up, his entire body protesting against moving from being injured so much. “Christ…” He groans in pain. “Are...you two...alright?”

“Don’t ask him that.” Zeke points to Eclipse. He manages to stand, and carefully lifts Eclipse up. “Where is the damn hospital?”

“Down…..town….by town hall….” Eclipse mutters out as the blood loss starts to affect him.

Ben and Zeke rush towards the hospital, many residents looking at them in fear. Mainly from the battle that they all saw. As they made it Eclipse was sent to Emergency care quickly. Zeke and Ben sat in the lobby. “Well… this was way worse than I expected.” Zeke confesses, his armor disbanding, revealing his, now torn, brown shirt and blue jeans.

Ben shakily pulled his hood back, showing his bruised skin, black hair and turquoise eyes. “And here I was thinking their ‘test’ wouldn’t involve one shots.” Ben says bluntly. “So...wielder of the X-blade huh? Sounds like a great responsibility huh?”

Zeke chuckled. “Supposedly I am supposed to keep Light and Darkness balanced on all worlds. Though, it’s become more of a fight to keep them in the sky rather than balanced.”

“Makes sense.” Ben shrugs. “But before you kicked down my...soon to be girlfriends door me and Yellow were having an honest chat about stuff. What do you want to know first?”

“Core and I have done the same many times. He told me that his wife was killed by Heartless… she was the first wielder of the X-blade.”

“So that’s why…” Ben mutters, looking down sadly before taking a deep breath. “Yellow told me...they couldn’t be happy because they lost someone or some people special...I didn’t think of them losing their significant other…”

“He told me she was the only one to beat him in a fight. When he lost her, he took the X-blade, and charged head first into the realm of darkness, he fought till he died. Now he’s… this… Makes you think how anyone could turn evil after something like that, or do something really stupid at least.”

“I don’t know….but Yellow, I think, was about to tell me ‘Thank you’ before you burst it when I apologized to her…” Ben says.

The Nurse interrupts the two, telling them that Eclipse was stable and that if they want ANY time with him then they better hurry before the elements of harmony come.

“Christ…” Ben mutters, pulling up his hood and getting up. “Let’s hope they don’t immediately try to attack us like idiots…” He mutters, still feeling weak but not wanting to deal with ponies that don’t understand anything.

The two found Eclipse in a cast that took up most of his left side. “So… you gonna be able to use that arm at all?” Zeke asks.

Eclipse shook his head. “Not for a while at least. Though, before anyone else comes in, tell me, do you two know of earth by chance?”

“We came from there… how do…?” Zeke questioned.

“Did you ask to become a pony?” Ben asks.

“First question, because I needed to confirm that this Core bitch wasn’t just after any old people, people like us who escaped are who Core’s after. Second, Yes...and I asked for a new life and apparently that old man either A: has a sense of humor or B: he took me by my exact wording because next thing I knew, I was being born.”

“Talk about being literal.” Zeke says.

“Pretty much.” Ben says with honest surprise. “So...we were told the elements were going to be here...think you can tell them not to attack me and Zeke here for no reason?” Ben asks, having a bad feeling that given Eclipse is hurt they’ll just blame him and Zeke and attack them cause convenience sake.

“Yeah, don’t worry….if Core could beat me no problem...and I’m this world’s strongest warrior? You really just need to duck once.” Eclipse says, his pride shattered.

“No need to be down. Besides, this should be a good lesson for ya.” Ben says honestly. “One doesn’t learn if they constantly win, in loss a true warrior learns.”

“Besides, I think you’ve interested them, so they won’t kill you… right away…” Zeke says.

“It's not me I’m worried about. Honestly if it was just me at risk I wouldn’t care. But …. With me out of the way….” Eclipse says, not wanting to think on the ‘what if’.

“If needing Keyblades is the issue… I can hand them out.” Zeke says.

“Ha...Luna and Celestia have twin keyblades...but other than that I’m it here. If you want, go wild, but I wouldn’t. No one to train them and I’m sorry, I’m not taking them off world...not yet.”

“I think some soldiers from my world could do in training them. Everyone on the world I’m at has a Keyblade.”

“Fine, but keep it small. With Nightmare gone the Heartless are less common, but now Nobodies have started to show up more, however small their numbers.” He says before getting sleepy “Aaannnd that’d be the painkillers…..fuck.”

Ben turned his head a little, hearing a subtle ‘where is my heart?’ drift through his mind. “Well he’s not joking…” Ben sighs out. “But we better leave to give the poor guy his sleep.” He sighs out. “Besides we still have notes to compare.”

“Yeah.” Zeke says, opening a portal with the X-blade. “This should take us to your world, we can talk there.” As the two enter, they fail to notice the group of people rushing in as the portal vanished, leaving Eclipse alone with the people entering.

“Be safe you two….” Eclipse whispers out as the portal vanishes.

As the two stepped out of the portal Ben looked around to see that they were indeed back in his home world. “God help me if Luna finds me…” He groans, still being in pain and knowing that being smothered by lunar boobies won’t help him at all. “So Zeke...want to see my girlfriends worry over me?” He asks, knowing that it’s only a matter of time before they swarm him.

He took a seat on the ground, there were in the open fields where Ben and Sweetie practiced at. “Hah, my wives will worry, then kill me…” He commented

“Sounds like you have a caring family. But I only have Twilight and Luna, most likely going to ask Rarity to tag along cause I have to help Sweetie and...Time Bell...out a lot.” Ben shrugs before taking a seat next to

“Time Bell?”

“Oh yeah…” Ben sighs out. “So during my conversation I got to have a very good explanation on something’s...like how Core is making those heartless hybrids and Yellow also explained that he used a version of Sweetie Bell to...make a Keyblade. She goes by Time because she’s that Birth By Sleep ‘No Name’ keyblade, the blue one that controls time.”

“Bastard.” Zeke summoned Discord. “On my equestria, a survivor of the Keyblade war was using Nobodies to capture or kill the inhabitants. Those he captured he ripped their hearts out and made into more foot soldiers for his army of Nobodies, there was only fifteen survivors in total, well, sixteen, Chrysalis managed to survive and hide. Well, during some trip a few people took back to the place he was experimenting, they found Discord as a Keychain. Unlike Yellow, he can’t turn back, he can’t even use his magic without me to cast if for him.”

“Shit…” Ben says bluntly. “Um...wow...I...have literally no idea what to say about that. And here I was going to talk about how me and Yellow got all philosophical about this war…” The cloaked man says, looking up at the blue skies. “Fucking hell...here I’m living in a place that’s peaceful, where you got dumped off into a hell hole...but...glad to know there were survivors…”

“It wasn’t where I first arrived, I wanted to try and see if I could find another survivor God told me about, Huxley, but I didn’t find him then, so I left, wanting to find a place with more action. I found it, now I have eight amazing wives, and eleven kids. None are by blood, but that could change soon.”

“I was about to say. I mean I know Luna likes to plow like a rabbit in heat but jesus, I doubt you could last that long with eight women...no offense.” Ben says sheepishly.

“None taken, spells help, and they all take turns… well, that’s as personal as I’ve ever gotten about my sex life.”

“Yeah me to...at least this time I don’t have Luna basically spouting out how sex goes with me.” Ben chuckles. “Celestia and Cadence practically told me that if Luna will probably make me do it in public...which is scary.” Ben explains, not really sure why he’s talking about this but finding it funny.

“Sounds like Rune, she’s one of my wives. She’s as horny as you can imagine… she read off every fetish in a small black book she has… it’s over a hundred pages long…”

At this Ben fell on his back laughing his ass off. “Oh, oh, oh-ho my god haha!” He shouts, rolling around laughing at such a thing.

“Yeah, so, you said you’re dating Twilight, Luna, and possibly Rarity?”

“Yes yes and yes.” Ben nods, calming down from his laughing fit as he pulled down his hood. “Twilight is kind and we share a common interest in books and history, Luna is dating me because she’s nice and...is head over heels for me because I can kill Heartless easily, and Rarity? Well she asked if she could date me and when I told Sweetie that it was a possibility she seemed so happy...not to mention Rarity needs someone that isn’t a one night stand.”

“Twilight, Fluttershy, Luna, Celestia, Hearts Care, if you ever went on the internet she was known as Button’s mom, Rune, Rainbow Dash, and Chrysalis. Well, also Toriel, but she isn’t a part of the marriage officially yet.”

“That is quite the roster of ladies that love you….also why do you have a wife that’s an abbreviation for ‘Tutorial’?” Ben frowns, finding that little thing weird.

“It’s just her name. Her world was odd though, but everything went fine in the end. She joined in cause I kinda… brought her two dead kids back to life, and her new adopted one really liked me and the others.”

“And you said you did all of this...in a year?” Ben asks.

“Less. Shit happens, simple as that. Lot’s been rebuilt, but all the ones who had their hearts taken are stuck out there as a Heartless and a Nobody. I know I can bring them back… but I’ve been hitting dead ends.”

“It’s weird how a loner with half a dead heart became a national hero, dates two wonderful mares, and is somehow making friends with someone that is so much better then him…” Ben chuckles. “But hey, I can summon Nobodies and you can summon Heartless...maybe we could help each other out, you help me figure out more of my powers and I’ll help sort out the Nobodies you need.”

Zeke looked hopeful. “That could work, we should test it, can you try and summon someone’s specific Nobody? I wanna try something.”

“I don’t know about ‘specifics’ but I can summon up a Dusk if you want...also now that were on this topic once you help me learn more I want to see a Darkside and a Twilight Thorn fight, that would be freaking awesome wouldn’t it?”

“Beyond words. Still try and summon… hang on.” Zeke raised his hand, focusing on exactly the hearts lost in the darkness he could access. A large body appeared. “If I did it right, I think the heart in that thing is my worlds Pinkie Pie, try and summon her Nobody.”

“Um...I’ll try.” Ben says worriedly before summoning his Duskblade. “Oh and this keyblade? Formed from a piece of my heart just so you know.” He says before focusing, pointing the keyblade at the Large Body. After a few moments of searching I heard a Nobody appear, and when I looked up I saw a Dancer swaying about in front of the large body, but this Dancer seemed a tad more...pink than usual.

Where...is my heart? A hollow female voice hums in my head, the voice reminding me of Pinkie Pie.

“If we’re right then there’s your heart.” Ben says, hoping this will work. “So...how should we do this?” He asks, feeling a little out of breath here from summoning a specific Nobody.

The Nobody attacked the Heartless, the two taking strikes at each other. “I think they got it covered?” Zeke questions.

My heart...my heart… The female Nobody hums, sounding a bit more energetic even if it was hollow.

The Dancer Nobody was the winner, and before the Heart floated away, it caught it. “So… I wonder how it will-” It swallowed the heart. “Never mind.” Zeke says. The Nobody flashed a blinding white, making Ben and Zeke cover their eyes. When it faded, they saw a familiar pink pony, Pinkie was back. “Crap, she’s naked…” Zeke commented.

“Oh dear…” Ben says worriedly.

“Wh-what happened?” The pink pony asks, rubbing her eyes and yawning. “It...feels like I was sleeping…” The anthro mare says groggily, sounding like she just woke up from a long sleep.

“Holy hell it worked…” Ben whispers to Zeke.

“You got a towel or something?” He asked Ben. He stood up and walked over to Pinkie. “You alright?”

“I think so… wait… am I dreaming? I’m always naked in my dreams.” To this, Zeke chuckled, helping her up. “Sadly no, so we better get you home soon. Good thing no one else is around here.”

“Yeah, it should be this way…” Ben says, his entire face beat red from seeing the naked mare as he turned around to give her some dignity. “Jeez…”

“Not just yet, we gotta get a few more at least. How many can you summon at a time before you can't go anymore?”

“I can still create more...but I may need to take a break or two because of the stress...I can summon five Creepers, summoning specifics is a little rough.”

“You think you can manage seven? Not all at once, but it’s practice that pushes you.”

“Yeah...I think so.”

It took well into the day, the sun was even setting when they were done, but Ben and Zeke did it, they brought back nine people. Pinkie Pie, Cloudchaser, Flitter, Applejack, Rarity, Derpy, Applebloom and Sweetie Bell, they were all back. They were all from Zeke’s world, but it was a start to fixing everyone lost. They all were naked, but his world Luna and others found them earlier, and brought clothes for the ones who returned. “That’s all of them… everyone is gonna be so happy when I get home… So, if you have it in you, anyone from your world you wanna try and get back?” Zeke asked, using a quick Cure on Ben.

“Thanks…” Ben says with a nod, straightening himself after using his Keyblade as a makeshift cane from the entire situation.

“So, got at least one more in you, it will be anyone from here that might be gone.”

“Twilight told me Zecora disappeared…” Ben says before raising his hand up and summoning a Sorcerer Nobody, this time the being looked a shade of grey with black stripes on it, the cubes it normally has around it resting around her.

Where is my heart? The feminine voice asks, the obvious accent showing she was a zebra.

“Do you think you can find someone’s heart of this world?” Ben asks Zeke, knowing he’s been mostly focusing on people from his world but still.

“Well, If I focus on the Nobody I think I can.” Zeke held up his hand, placing all thought into two things, the Nobody in front of him, and the Heartless that will appear. Soon enough, a Wizard Heartless appeared, and looked at the Nobody.

My heart… She says, before the cubes surrounding her spun a bit before surrounding the Wizard heartless, the blocks smacking the otherwise weak heartless multiple times. The blocks made quick work of the Heartless before the Sorcerer floated forward, it’s always covered arms opening as a white hand grabbed the heart and swallowed it hole. After a quick flash of light appeared yet again a naked zebra appeared.

“You okay?” Ben asks worriedly, the first one moving over to the mare on the ground rubbing her eyes.

She twitched, and looked up at Ben. “... I am too tired to rhyme.” She fell back asleep with that.

“Well…” Ben sighs out before getting up and walking over to Zeke. “You think this is a good start?” He whispers, keeping his voice down to let Zecora rest.

“We’re practically bringing the dead back to life, I think we just won something over Core.” He replied, summoning Discord. Anyway we can have a CALM portal back home?

Sure, but just this once. A light shoots out of Discord, revealing a portal of Light. You’re welcome

“Alright, we’ll be off, I’ll be back some time later, hopefully with a means of stable travel without relying on X.” Zeke, and the others from his world, walked into the portal, and it closed when the last of them entered.

Ben nodded, before throwing his keyblade up and summoning his Keyblade glider, gently picking up Zecora and putting her down comfortably enough on the bike as I steered it towards town. “Well...that was an eventful day…”

Recovering and Explaining... Well, Mostly

View Online

I turned to Twilight and the others as they started to ask many, many questions......sooo many questions.....I'm too tired for this crap.

"Who were those...those things?!"

"You got hurt! How?!"

"Will that m-monster come back?"

"Yea, where is the guy who hurt you? I wanna give him a piece of my mind!"

"Are you alright darling?"

"Do Zeke and Ben like chocolate?!"

I've had enough. I raise my hoof silencing them. "First off, please stop yelling, my ears hurt." I wined. You try having your arm nearly ripped off and being drugged up without sensitive hearing! "Second of all, I will answer all your questions....Hopefully before either I pass out, more shit goes down or a friend follows through on what he says."

"Now, first off, those creatures you just saw go through a portal helped me out. They are humans from another world that accidentally brought our world into their problems. Yes, other worlds do exist. Yes I can go to them if I wish. No twilight I am not taking you unless I have to." I swear I saw her pout at that. "Second, I got hurt fighting that monster. He was more powerful then all three of us, and the other two were much more powerful than even I am." They didn't need to know I nearly got my hoof ripped out while I was already beaten. "Third, I'm sorry Fluttershy but that monster won't, but others will...any I'd bet that by the end of this all I'll be wishing he was the biggest fish to fry. Fourth, I don't know where he is but you will not fight him even if you see him Rainbow! He. Will. Kill. You! I barely got away with only this! So if you see him, tell me or a princess. Five, do I look alright? And Pinkie......I'm not even going to question how you knew their names."

I took a breath after all that. Damn it I hate doing this to these girls.....And right on cue six portals open up. Out of the portals six lights shoot out and enter the six girls in front of me....followed by a seventh opening up and going into Spike. "Well, looks like you seven might just be joining me anyways.....if weird people show up don't flip....just summon your Keyblade......niiiiighhht" I say before I just saw black.

I awoke to the meadow I was in when this whole thing started. "Ah so you're awake, well asleep but who am I to judge?" Said G man from behind me.

I stand up in my human form, my skin now a tan with the same eyes and hair as my pony self...I'm also skinny now so there's that. "So what do you want God? Eighteen years and not even a note? I was begaining to think you forgot about me!" I say, dripping with sarcasm. I don't hate him, but it has been a while. That didn't make it hurt less when he took on a pained expression

"I was hoping that by changing your form and putting you on a simple world you would slip under my brother's interest until it was too late...but it appears that no longer is the case." He says with sorrow.....damn now I feel bad for the old man. "Tell me C____ I'm sorry. it's Eclipse now isnt it? Tell me, what about you is so special?" He asks me. Is...is this suposted to be a joke?

I turned my back to him. "Well....nothing really. I mean, having a Keyblade doesn't make you special anymore, and Let's face it, my heart is weak. I can feel its light and darkness. If they were any fainter I would bring into question whether or not I had a heart to begin with. Compared to the others I have seen, Zeke and Ben, I'm useless. Hell the only reason I got Core's interest was because I'm stubborn as fuck, but thats nothing special. So no, I don't have anything special about me."

God smiled to me...but it was a sad smile "You are right.....just as you are wrong." I turned to look at him fully. He looked....sad. "It pains me that you don't see how strong you are. You can see what others fail to. You are strong enough to survive past your limits. Most of all, your heart is weak yes....but it is adaptable. Your heart adapted to the Darkness inside the attack that put you down, just as it can adapt to light based attacks. You are versatile...and that is something no one can take from you, not even Core. Now... I have given Others gifts far beyond your own...because you asked for so little. However...I believe in a even playing field. You are aware of the ability Scan correct?"

Now I'm just confused. Yea god's words resonated with me but asking me about Scan....who doesn't know what that one does? "Well yea. It is the ability that allowed you to see your opponent HP gauge. It is a must have ability, so much so that their was a challenge to go through the game without using it."

"Consider it yours. you won't be able to see a hp gauge per say, but you will know exactly how much your enemies have left in them before they lose or die. That plus your adaptability ability, and your natural versatility, I think that you'll find you're not as weak as you think you are. Now, it is time for you to wake up."

I started to feel a pulling, much like how it feels to teleport "God?" I said as he turned to me "Thanks...for everything."

"Don't thank me yet....you might regret that later....but you're welcome..."

I awoke to find my Arm....fixed?! Wait....I always forget about magic, even after all this time. I got up for the mane six to enter with spike...as well as Gilda, Soarin and Trixie. At least two of them I would never expect to show up "Hey girls, Spike, Soarin, whats going-"

"Good, you can fight. We need you now!" Twilight said with panic. uh oh.

"Twi....what's wrong?"

"Look out the window!" She said as all 10 of them summoned Keyblades. Twi with Twilight Blaze, Rares with Treasure Trove, Spike (my man!) with Hidden Dragon, Applejack with Olympia, Flutters with Divine Rose, Pinkie Lady Luck, Dash Follow the Wind, Gilda Gull Wing, Soarin Victory Line, and Trixie Ocean Rage.....damn I had way too much free time to know the names JUST by their looks.

I looked outside and my heart dropped.....A swarm of heartless were attacking Ponyville. and Not the Weak POS's either....the one's you generally don't want to fuck with like Guard Armors, Neo Shadows, Invisibles, and is that a fucken Phantom?!

"Holy shit......I really can't get a break after all."

Stopga, Where Are You When I Need You?!?

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"Before we go out there, let's take stock in our abilities. I have more experience then all of you combined. Pinkie, you have random on your side. Go wild, but be careful. Twilight, Trixie, Rarity, you three are our mages. If that huge heartless has a color blue, use a ice spell, red fire, and yellow thunder. Fluttershy, you're our medic. Help where you can, be be in the back and when someone looks hurt, hold the Keyblade up high, think of their pain, and shout cure. The rest of you, Soarin, Rainbow and Gilda, you three are all about fast attacks. Strike hard and do hit and run tactics. Yes it's a cheap move, but until you get training I need you three to stick to that. I'll also need your help with the big guy. whenever the weak point is white, hit it as much as you can. Applejack, you're the tank. I'll need you down on the ground keeping not only the mages and support safe, but evacuating the civilians to a safe place until we handle the situation. Spike, you have two jobs. First I need you to send a letter to the princesses telling them the heartless are attacking, SOS. Now don't be down, whether Twilight want's you to see action or not is irrelevant little bro. We need everyone we can can get, so you will be a mix of mage and tank, guarding Twilight. Any questions?" I said turning to them, Oathkeeper and Oblivion resting beside me.

They looked at me as if I had grown a extra head. "Uh, Sugarcube? Did ya just come up with that plan?"

"Yeah, why?"

"Because darling, that sounds like something a leader with years of practice would tell the knights."

"Okay, how about this, any questions on the plan?" I said with not much patience. "Look, we can either follow this plan or we can go out guns blazing and die. Or better yet, stay in here and argue while ponies are in danger of death. Now," I say turning to the unicorns of the group "Do any of you know chronomancy or at least the spell Stop?" I took their silence as a no. "In that case, I'm going to be trying something drastic while you guys do your thing."

"Eclipse...What are you going to do?" Twilight said with worry in her voice.....damn it, why did she have to use that voice?

"I'm going to destroy the clock tower. Every minute we are fighting that big guy, that Phantom, One of us will faint and if all of us faint? We all die. When it dies, anyone fainted will be awoken in the condition they were when they fainted."

"How are you going to take down the clock tower?! That's crazy!" Shouted RD

"Any better ideas?! I'm all ears!"

"You're not all ears silly, you're all OC!" Pinkie said in her singsong voice.

It was that time of day....the time of day we all turn and stare at Pinkie Pie. "You are one strange pony, I hope you know that."

"Yeperoonie!" Pinkie said as we all started to chuckle.

"The letter is sent! I also told the princesses to not send a letter as I will be fighting." Spike relayed.

"Thanks bro. Now, the moment we leave, everything will be more chaotic than the Age of Discord. Stay in groups at least. We have team Sword, Team Shield and Team Staff. Fluttershy, you will be with team Staff as you will be our medic. When I am done with the clock tower and the Phantom is dead, I will join team Shield and we will focus more on the Armors and Shadows. Stick to your teams, and go to Fluttershy when your hurt. Do not, I repeat, do not try and take on anything alone. You are all untrained and these Heartless will tear you apart. From here on out our improvo squad will be code named Harmony. Team Celestial will be joining us as reinforcements soon." I turned to them, taking both Oblivion and Oathkeeper to float next to me. "Let's go show these bastards rule number one in Ponyville: Don't buck with Ponyville."

Some people dream of epic battles. Thinking that Just by having a weapon and fighting the good fight you can be badass. I have something to say to that.....They are totally right! We burst out the hospital in time to save Button Mash and Sweetie Bell from a Neoshadow thanks to a enraged Rarity casting blizardra. We all ran in our groups, Team Staff into the center of town square with Team Shield close behind. Team Sword started to charge towards the phantom as I was left alone. I sprinted through the Heartless hoard, slicing Shadows left and right, my Keyblades moving fast but natural. However I knew we didn't have long. I didn't have long to fight like this. I did a speed run to the clock tower before two guard armors dropped down in front of me.

"Damn it, I don't have time for you!" I yelled. As I shouted "Double Raid!" I threw both Oathkeeper and Oblivion towards the head to stun before sprinting through the doors, the Keyblades right behind me. Now I know I said I was going to destroy the clock tower, but I wanted the capability for Ponyville to repair damage, not have to build something entirely new. My plan was to take out a gear so that the clock would stop moving, and in turn no sudden faints. As I was contemplating my plan two Neoshadows tried to get the drop on me before they meet the ends of my Keyblades. I looked to the top of the stairs and focused.

Using unicorn magic is hard, especially since it required your full belief in the spell. Earth had no such magic, and so even now my brain sometimes has problems believing in unicorn based magic. Thankfully I had no such problem this time and I felt myself teleport straight to the top. I unsummoned Oath and Obi and got to work trying to pull out the gear. With a Grunt and a migraine I was able to levitate a gear out of place just enough for the hand on the clock to stop. I let out a sigh of relief as I summoned Oath though another shadow behind me.

It was around this time I heard the sound of Keyblade gliders swooping and more sounds of Keyblades then their should be.

I looked out the Clock to see a group of humanoid wielders helping fend off the heartless. I recall Zeke saying something about also providing trainers, so that stands to reason that these are them. I notice the phantom fall right as I stand on the edge of the window. good, that's the big threat out of the way. I throw both Keyblades in the air....and Jump off the tower.

Now some of you might be thinking 'What the hell?! His friends just beat up a heartless and he commits suicide?!' to which you are right. This would be stupid.....if I was planing on dieing. Two wings fly to me and attach themselves to my back, one black and almost looking like a bats and the other one white and feathered, both made of metal. I fly on my Keyblade glider and use it as a parachute and do a HALO landing, both turning back into Oath and Obi in time to block two invisibles, turning their weapon's into themselves before slicing their chest, killing both in a two hit maneuver. I smirked at that before falling on my face.

In all my flare, I forgot rule number one of any fight, check your six. A invisible behind me sliced my back, drawing blood before vanishing. "Oh my! Cure!" Says a distressed Fluttershy, mending my back leaving only a small light part in my fur, signifying a scar.

I nod to Fluttershy "Thanks!" I shout to her as I block another attack. I can't cast magic, I already used up my reserves! I glance around to access the damage. Shield did good keeping Staff safe, but it looks like Staff is out of juice, with the exception of Twilight. She seems to be gaining magical energy, and upon tracking it I found out why. Spike, while using his fire and dragonic magic (so glad I convinced Twi to let him learn) is decimating any at range, the few that come close do jack all to his scales. But that's not why I'm paying attention to spike. The mana he would normally gain when using Hidden Dragon is going instead to Twilight., probably due to the fact that Spike technically inst using mana, but his dragon breath. An ability if you will. I Look up at Team Sword and man, they look tired as hell, but still fighting fast and furious. Gilda I could tell has been tanking for them due to her larger size. I scan around for Pinkie to see her make five guard armors all kill each other by hitting the wrong thing, and cause the Neoshadows and invisible to start and dance while she takes them out.....so glad she is on my side...

And call in the cavalry! I looked up to see a sight that brought a tear to my eye. What, looking into the sun hurts like hell! Celestia and Luna both landed and I kid you not immediately did a reality shift, cutting a third of the heartless down in one go! Team Celestial has arrived baby! I ran over to join Applejack an Spike to defend Staff while most of them recovered. Not the high action job, but somepony has got to do it.

About a hour later all the heartless were gone, and introductions were in order. I introduced myself first, and gestured to the ten newbies as the students before the princesses took over. Luna came up to me after all the talks were over. "We were informed that the cause of the massive military organization during the battle, and these teachers for the ten new wielders were thanks to your efforts. Is that true?"

I sigh. "Yeah it's true Luna. The team's and squads were instinct while our new friends were thanks to a deal I made."

"Instinct you say?"

"Yeah it felt....natural. Besides," I say, laying down on the grassy hill. "A wolf never hunts alone."

I...I Get A Break? Nope.

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It was afternoon by the time all the chaos had died down and I decided no training today.....A army of heartless was training enough for now. I quickly found a tree to lay under, unsummoned the blades, and took a well deserved, non medically induced nap. God, it felt good to lay on the soft grass and just....look at the sky. all was quiet and calm.....to quiet for my tastes. I keep expecting another problem to appear. after all.....it's still Saturday. But back to the nap.....calm, soft, and best of all nopony that needs me right now...

Well this was unexpected. I've taken plenty of naps in my time in Equestria but this is the first time I've had a Deep Dive. I looked down and saw...well, it was faded but I saw the glass platform. It had two images, one of my new human form holding Oblivion, one of my pony form holding Oathkeeper. All around were the different people I have meet, even a few I don't recognize and finally, the four main circles had Twilight, Luna, Zeke and God. I slowly landed and notice I was in my human form in blue jeans, short sleeved button up dark gray shirt and black sneakers. So, what am I going to have to fight? That's generally how these things work right?

Don't worry _____ oh sorry I mean Eclipse. Don't worry, no fighting in your Station of awakening.

Unless you want to fight that is. I'll have no objections, but I'm not sure how your heart would handle it or what would appear.

I shake my head "I've had enough fighting for one day. So why am I here?"

Well, you see....The thing is....

You haven't proven yourself to be our true wielder.

".....What?"

What he was trying to say, if bluntly, was that we were given to you. We are a part of you as you are of us, but you haven't been like any other wielder that has truly wielded us.

"What....what were the other's like?"

It...that's a....sensitive topic.....

Look, I know you mean well, but both of our original owners were killed in the Keyblade war. It's not something we like to bring up you know? I'll say this though, my last wielder...She was so forgetful. She was bullied and broken to the point where she was mostly darkness, but she held onto hope, and used her darkness to help others. That was the kind of person she was.

"I'm sorry..."

It's okay, don't let sis fool you, I may be action crazed and blunt, but I care.

"So, how do I prove myself to you two?"

That's simple really. Keep true to yourself, and follow your heart. If it says to act, act. If not, don't.

"I think I can do that" I say smiling. I walk around and notice a face I don't recognize, but it feels like I should "Who is this?" I ask, staring down at the picture.

That is your father...he and the rest of his family are why you have a sizable amount of darkness, however as he didn't raise you it's not as much as it could be.

"My sperm donor huh?....Honestly my only regret of leaving earth is that I never met him...even if mom said if I did, I would wish I hadn't. At the very least I wanted to show him that the son he never wanted is alive and well, if just in spite of him."

Trust me kid, you don't want to meet that guy...but knowing of the bitch called destiny, all I can say is be careful what you wish for.

"Trust me. I'm happy with life now. Hell I was thinking on exploring worlds soon if not for the heartless suddenly attacking like that. But I get your point." I say walking back to the center of the platform. "Before I wake up...I have to ask something. How can I get stronger? My heart....it's so weak. I'm not good at magic. Hell unless I let the Keyblades fight for themselves I don't even hit hard, and that's more tiring than just hitting them myself."

That is not for us to say sadly.

Yeah, sadly me and sis can't help you on that, but you'll figure it out.

It is sis and I, for the last hundredth time!

I start laughing, knowing the feeling and soon, the two join in before a door appears "Well, that's my que."

Hey Eclipse, one last thing

"What?"

Just ask Luna out already you spineless pathetic motherfu-

Oblivion, brother, I'm shutting you up now before I hurt you.

I shake my head as I open the door to be Onslaughted by both darkness and light. I open my eyes to find it is now night, and man was it lovely tonight. The stars were shining, the moon was bright, but not too bright to outshine the stars. "Man, Luna really did good work tonight"

"I'm glad you think so, I worked hard to make it nice tonight"

I look up the hill to see Princess Luna and I couldn't stop the smile from landing on my face "Hey Luna, come down here, lay down. Take a load off, you look like you need it." She hesitates for a second before walking down and laying next to me.

"I must admit, I have been stressed. Adapting to this new society, new politics, even new catering. Then finding out that my sister had blocked all knowledge about Keyblades or other worlds...I could use a bit of rest." She said with a sigh.

We lay there for a good thirty minutes, staring at the sky, enjoying each other's company before another word is even spoken. I looked over to Luna to see she has scooted closer to me while I wasn't paying attention, letting me get a good look at her face. Now before anyone says the term 'horse fucker!' two things. One, they are ponies, not horses. Second, I am one right now, so it is not a problem at all. Now, back to Luna. The show doesn't do her justice. Her fur is well groomed with a slight shine from reflected moonlight, her starry mane moving slowly and deliberately as a few strands somehow cover part of her face. Hey eyes look like the stars themselves are in them as she turns to look at me. We stare at each other for a good thirty seconds before we both turn away, blushing.

"So Luna...have you heard of video games yet?" I say after recovering from the blush. Damn she's cute.

"No...I don't think I have yet." She responded, only with a blush still on her face. Did I mention the cuteness?

"I'll show you sometime. I have a feeling you'll like it."

"I'd like that..." She looked thoughtful for a second. "Eclipse, I must ask, Why didn't you decide to be a royal guard? You could have easily made captain, or even higher with your skill in combat. Instead, you settled for no job, instead using the allowance you get for being a student of the day...well now the night but the point still stands. Why do you settle for so little?"

"Because Luna, I don't see the point." I said shortly after she was finished. "I never had the ambition for greatness, nor did I have the want for responsibility. Hell, I wouldn't even care if I disappeared, never to be seen or remembered for all eternity. What I do care about however is family. Family and friends are the only things I care about. You could say they keep me going, that they are my power and you wouldn't be wrong." I turn to Luna with a serious look. "I only fight to defend those I care about. God have mercy on the sod who takes them away from me, because I sure as hell won't show any."

She looked at me and slowly put a hoof to my shoulder "Do....do you count me in that group you'd protect?"

I look at her and smile at her worried face "Yes I do Luna...Yes I do..."

About three hours later I bid Luna farewell and promise to see her again soon and go into the library where the guests are sleeping down stairs. I smile softly before going to my room and laying down, immediately falling asleep due to ...... strenuous activity. I didn't even know ponies could bend like that.....

I woke up to hear Twilight making her rounds. And by that I mean she was chatting up a storm with the people Zeke sent to train them I looked at the clock noticing it was about nine and got out of bed. It's about time for studious Twi to be up and about.... Now for training.

Let's hope that letting Zeke hand out those Keyblades wasn't a mistake.

“So you come from another world?! What's it like! What do you eat, what are you wearing, I want to know everything!”

The man she was questioning was slightly startled from the rapid rate of the questions, but collected his thoughts. “Yes, most of us come from many other worlds, but Daybreak Empire is the name of our current world/city. It’s nice, the Crystal Heart keeps Heartless out of the world. We are largely omnivorous, don’t worry, consuming intelligent life is cannibalism and very much illegal in most every world. I’m wearing my standard soldier uniform, the metal sleeve on my arm is basically an armor I just push a button and it’s on, and I’m sure you’ll learn what you want with time.” He replied.

“That’s enough Twilight, you will have them tired out from answering your questions before they even start to training you girls.” I said as the other nine walked down/walk in through the door “Speak of the devil.”

After a brief introduction the rest of the Soldiers walk in from wherever they were.

“Commander Justin, we’ve set up the base.” One of the soldiers said.

“Good,” The man Twilight was questioning replied. “Everything operational?”

“Yes sir.”

“Then rest.” He said, and the other soldiers left. “So, anything else you all wanna know?”

“Uh...uhm…. W-what will we be learning?” Spoke a nervous Fluttershy. I’m proud of her, she spoke first for once!

“Combat, spellcasting, and glider/armor usage. Though the armor may be an issue…”

“Not as much as you think Darling, Why I have been working on a outfit for Eclipse to enhance him ever since I saw him in action. It was meant to be a surprise but with some work I’m sure I can have some for all of us here!” Spoke Rarity in her ever posh voice. I really hate her voice, but you learn to deal with it.

“Can you configure the spell matrixes in the armor and modify them for… pony physique and do it without risk of armor failure in the lanes between… aka space? Cause if the oxygen generation spell fails… you die…”

“I can help her. I am the element of magic after all. With the two of us working together I don’t see why we can't safeguard them for travel” Twilight stated proudly.

“Well you did make them on our world.”

“Wait...I made your armor on your- oh right….Multiverse theory. Until now the only pony who took it seriously was Eclipse, But I think he just wanted something to one up me when it came to books.”

“You caught me Twi.” I say...rather unconvincingly.

“Well it’s a fact, and we refer to parallel dimensions as ‘reflections’. Your reflection in Daybreak along with another scientist managed to reverse engineer a working prototype of Keyblade armor from Council member Zeke’s original.” Justin said.

“Thats-”

“I’m cutting you off there Twi, you're wastin’ daylight chatting techno babble when we could be learning to fight these Heartless vermin.” Said Applejack, putting a hoof to Twilight's mouth

“Sorry.”

“So, where are we training!” Said an excited Spike. Little guy was probably thinking on being a knight in shining armor or something at this point.

“We can start whenever you are all ready.” Justin said.

“Let's get started. Field training is good for basics, but that’s all they really know. I want to make sure we know how to properly handle an attack like that again.” I said

“Yeah! Next time, I’m gonna show those Heatless what happens when you mess with Rainbow ‘Danger’ Dash!” Rainbow said, flying up and puffing out her chest

We followed Justin out to an empty field. He selected Rainbow and I to demonstrate basic attacking and blocking. “So, I know Eclipse here knows how to hit, so I will be testing Rainbow here. You try and block my attack, alright?”

“Pff, peace of cake!” She said summoning her Keyblade

Justin took a rather interesting stance… almost like a samurai… Oh wait… In a sudden flash, he was behind Rainbow and she fell over. “You failed miserably.” He said as he kneeled down to her.

“H-How the buck did you do that! I didn’t even see you move!” She shouted.

“It’s called Zantetsuken, fast, powerful… and easy to block as it takes time for the one attacking to charge it.”

“Wow...I thought only Terra could do that.” I whispered to myself as I watched.

“I still say you cheated..” said a disappointed RD

“In a fight, there’s no cheating, only those who live, and those who die. It’s my job to make sure you are the one who lives to fight the next battle.”

The prospect of his words hit home as the Mane six and others remember the feeling yesterday of fighting all those heartless...the feeling of panic whenever they were hit so suddenly, Rainbow looks like she is done joking. “Let’s go again.”

Justin jumped back a few feet in one go. “Alright. Block this.” He charged up Zantetsuken again, and in a flash, he was in front of Rainbow, who looked like she managed to block it. “Good, now, try and attack me.” He said, jumping back a few more feet.

Rainbow closed her eyes and focused on the rainboom she did all those years ago. When she opened them she shot off so fast the sound barrier broke as she went in for a attack.

Justin blocked it, then suddenly hit her seconds after she attacked, sending Rainbow flying across the ground. “Counterblock or counterhammer works for attacking those that get too close when blocking.”

Rainbow groaned as the others were stopped from helping by me. “Stop. She needs to learn this just as you need to. I don’t agree with the method but it is apparently effective. So we will follow it to a T. That means leaving rainbow to look after herself, understand?” I say to the others as Rainbow gets up.

“That was cheap…”

“You still have yet to hit me.” Justin stated, weilding his Keyblade at her. “I was sent to teach you all for a reason, guess why.”

I kept quiet. I knew….That bastard Core. Knowing those sadistic fucks, they probably sent the Heartless in the first place. But this is for the others to learn. They all shook their heads as they looked to me for the answer.

“Core.” I said in a emotionless tone.

“Precisely.” Justin said. “I’m the fifth highest ranked fighter in Daybreak, I was sent to keep you all safe from things you are not ready for, and prepare you to kill it… Core and those Heartless… his allies… They will not hesitate to kill you, or take you to suffer a fate worse than death.”

Rainbow turned to him, strengthening her grip on her Blade. She thought of her friends being experimented on and looked at Justin with cold eyes. The eyes of a warrior, as she charged straight toward him, slower, but with more control to get past his defense.

Justin and Rainbow crossed blades, and a small shockwave of energy pulsed from their impact. “Better.” Justin was gone in a haze, and reappeared behind Rainbow. “But… to slow.” His Keyblade struck her upward, he jumped to her thrown high, hit her upwards again, then repeated, only to slam his Keyblade down on her hard, sending her crashing into a small crater on the ground.

Fluttershy was about to cast cure before I held the blade down. “Fluttershy, I know this is hardest on you, but you can’t, not yet okay?” She nodded, if hesitantly as Rainbow slowly got up. My Scan ability told me that she couldn’t take much more, one more hit maybe, but she sure didn’t look it.

“Heh...Is that all you got?”

“You’re stronger than I expected. Fine then, one last attack…” Justin looked focused as he closed his eyes… when he opened them, he rushed forward in a haze of electricity, and hit Rainbow once as she fell over, out cold. “Shotlocks will be saved for tomorrow.”

Fluttershy pushed passed me and cast cure on Rainbow before sighing, relieved “It’s okay, she’s just knocked out.”

“I wasn’t worried Flutters” I said. More and more surprises….damn Zeke, you are one clever bastard.

“Attacks with Keyblades are different than attacking with swords or guns… intent means everything. Only an intent to kill will let a Keyblade kill, I had no such intent, so she’s just out cold.” Justin explained. “Be careful when you become enraged in combat.”

“So...Who’s next on the list?” I ask in a laid back fashion.

“Applejack.” Justin said, pointing at her. “Same lessons, I expect better since you’ve watched a match.”

AJ walked forward and summoned her keyblade, taking a much more defencive stance than Rainbow as she looked calm. “Ready when you are partner.” she said.

Justin pointed his Keyblade at her. “Alright… Fire.” He said as a fireball shot out the tip of his Keyblade.

Applejack waited until the last moment to bring the keyblade up to block as smoke clouded her vision, obscuring Justin from her sight. She ran forward slowly in comparison to Rainbow to close the gap while playing defencive.

Justin threw his Keyblade into what looked like a Strike Raid, but when it hit her, she was frozen in a hunk of ice. “Ice Raid, part spell, part attack.” Justin said as his Keyblade returned to him and he delivered a Zantetsuken to Applejack while she was frozen. The impact broke her out of the ice, and she flew back a few feet.

When she landed she immediately got up, apparently shaking off the attack, but I knew better. It took a quarter of her stamina from just two attack. At this rate I think only two of us would stand a chance. Me because I know more than the rest, and Pinkie because she is unpredictable to even the best minds. “It’ll take more than some fancy magic to keep me down.” Applejack said as she started again. Her leg muscles gave away that she was hesitant and prepared to dodge out of the way, and if I saw it, I would bet Twilight to a slaver that Justin saw it.

“Stopra.” Justin said as Applejack froze with a small clock counting down over her head. Justin took lots of attacks on her, and when Applejack unfroze, she collapsed.

“That was over quickly.” I said while Fluttershy played medic again, setting Applejack next to Rainbow Dash to the side. “Done in record time. Next?”

“This is going nowhere… Eclipse, Twilight, and Spike, you three are next.”

I chuckle, knowing Spike’s magic is not magic in the normal sense. “Okay then. Be careful what you wish for. You might just get it” I said as Oblivion and Oathkeeper appear around me.

“I know, that’s why I wanna see how the tree of you handle this attack.” He said as we all got into position. He pointed his Keyblade at me. “Mega Flare!”

“Oh shit.”

It hit, and there was a blinding light as I was thrown for a loop. “Not as well as I had hoped…” I heard Justin say.

You know, I think it’s time to stop holding back and be serious. Oblivion and Oathkeeper worked together in Tandem, one using magic to slow my fall, causing me to hover in mid air for a second while the other I held in front of me “Stopga! Thunderga!” I shouted “Spike Dragon raid lesson three! Twilight, use your ice spells!” As Spike started to surround himself in fire. As Spike charged, a green flaming dragon followed his blade while Twilight focused, charging up her spell as the air around her was frigid.

Our attacks hit all at once, there was dust after the impact. When it settled and we saw Justin still standing… Scan showed we only did a quarter of his HP. “Not bad, not bad at all.”

I tried to hide my shock. Spike's Dragon Raid alone should have been overkill, but he barely took a quarter damage...and he was only the fifth strongest…..damn I’m weak. “Spike, up it up if you can. Twilight, full bast-”

Before I could finish, he was somehow behind all of us. “Time Break.” He said, taking a hard swing at all of us, sending Spike flying, Twilight collapsing unconscious, and me with what felt like a broken rib… and ego.. “Get your attack patterns down to simple words, saves time and lives.”

I grunt as I cast a Quick cure on myself, wincing as my rib repairs and I stand up. “I may be not all that strong, but rule number one of any fight, don't underestimate your opponent.” I say.

“Duh, this training was all about learning your limits.”

“Yeah, that and thinking. With Rainbow, she needed to stop being so hard headed and think tactically. Applejack needs to stop hesitating and act. Twilight needs to have more defensive and melee skill, Spike...well, he’s pretty good where he is, just needs to improve from here. And me? I need to stop stalling and let Spike have the glory.” I say as Spike tries to hit him from behind with a lesson four attack.

Justin reacted faster than I expected. One blur and he was holding Spike by his head. “I agree, Spike here is good for his abilities, he just needs to grow up a bit is all.” He tossed Spike across the ground. “As for you, you so far have passed already.”

“Really now? Nope sorry, you're stuck with me. You see, we may be different ponies...and griffin...and dragon...but we are a team. What kind of team member would I be if I up and ditched them?”

“Fair enough. This was gonna mark this as a break for you all, but you can enjoy a nap.” He raised his Keyblade into the air. “Armageddon!” I looked up and a massive meteor was falling right over me… oh shit. Was my last thought before the darkness of unconsciousness took hold.

Time For Experimentation

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I groaned awake. Damn, I didn't have enough mana to use Reflect before his attack.....not that it would have mattered. Damn it! I really am nothing special. I looked to my side to see I was the first one awake of the eleven of us here. I stood up and summoned Oblivion and Oathkeeper. Damn it, I want the power to defend those I care about, and I can't even defend myself! I walked over to a tree at the edge of the clearing before bringing my Keyblades down onto it. I continued like this for I don't know how long, all I know it was Twilight who stopped me by grabbing Oathkeeper in mid swing. I turned to her and she just gestured to the tree....it was barely splinters by this point. Twilight just wrapped her hooves around me and held me...I unsummoned the blades and just stood there for a time.

It was a while before everyone was up and we were let off for as long as we needed to reflect on what we learned about ourselves. We could continue when we were all ready. Apparently the only pony who truly passed was Pinkie unsurprisingly...but she did the same thing I did and said she'd stay. We got our asses handed to us, and he's not even number one. I need to be better.

Before we all left Rarity said to meet her at her shop so that's where I headed, having nowhere else to be until the training starts again. I entered the store to hear Rarity in the back. "One moment!" She came out with a bundle in her hooves. "Oh Eclipse! Just the stallion I wanted to see!" She held up a coat and presented it to me. It was a silver gray with a black trim, reminding me of Final form slightly. I got closer and I realized it wasn't silver, it was metal stitched into the fabric for protection. I also noticed a huge spell matrix ranging from an air spell so I could breath in space, to enhancing the hardness of the metal without making it brittle. There was a few more but that don't really need to be explained, but there was one that I couldn't figure out. "I had Pinkie talk to her family to get some Orichalcum+. The material is the strongest, most flexible metal to date, and is a surprising accepting to magic."

"Wow...Thank you." I said taking the coat in my hooves.

"Don't thank just me darling, everyone pitched in a bit, even the princesses helped. That coat has probably the most worth of anything in this world now."

"What was the other enchantment I noticed...it was so different than anything I've ever seen."

"Ah...that is a little something Twilight came up with, but it took all of us together to work, even the four of us who can't use magic. It'll grant you traits from each of us, passively increasing everything about you! However, if one of us is with you, you can choose to activate what Twilight calls a Drive form. We will be turned into magic, our hearts joining your own to give you enhanced traits of that pony, example Twilight you would lose how much you can take darling, but your magic prowess would be among the stars!"

I put on the coat to find it fits perfectly, not tight so to feel uncomfortable, but not loose either. "I can't thank you all enough."

"Don't thank us just yet darling, we still have another lesson with that Justin today. Although I think things will be a little different now that you can even the odds so to speak." She said with a smile. “You go ahead and head over to Justin, I just need to finish up a few things here, but it may take a while.”

I walked out of the shop and decided to take the scenic route to the training field. After all, It’s a nice day out...don’t want to be knocked out throughout it entirely. I started to hum a little to myself when I stopped...and heard the unmistakable sound of a Door to Darkness. “Not one fucken day…..” I sigh as I head in the direction of the sound.

Who I saw exit it… I froze in shock. “So… you’re the one they call Eclipse?” The man said. He was Human….but that’s not why I froze. Standing there in the woods was a man I had only seen a handful of times, a few times on the TV back on earth...and once during my deep dive. It hadn’t clicked...how could it have. How are you supposed to cope with this!

My father...is Josh Ventral!?

I shake my head, clearing my thoughts as I summon both my keyblades “So what if I am?”

“Then that means, according to your DNA we got during that little Heartless attack, you’re my son.” He replied nonchalantly.

Play it cool... Play it cool damn it! “Well, sorry, My dad on earth left my mom before I was even born, so yea.”

“Yeah… that sounds about right. What was her stage name?”

“How am I supposed to know? She tried to keep it hidden from me as long as possible, but with strangers entering the house every now and then, you pick up on things.” I say with no emotion, scanning the battlefield for every advantage.

“Well that’s a shame. So… how’s it feel to know you’re a Ventral? To realize that generations of killers run through your blood?”

“Bluntly or sugar coated? I like blunt so I’ll say this. It feels like everything lines up while braking at the same time. I hate it.” I raise my keyblades to a ready position.

“You just haven’t found your Killing Mood yet.” Josh looked up, and I saw what he was looking at. A pegasus, just flying by. Before I could act, he pulled out a pistol and fired. She fell dead not far from me… I- I’ve seen her in town… what was her name? Why can’t I remember her name!?! “We were born to kill, it’s what we are… the human demons.”

I stare at the body, my darkness for the first time in my life stirring...but my light is as well. Why Can’t I remember her name, why is my heart acting now, what the hell is going on?! “Human demons...sounds about right for you and your family...But frankly, all I see is a wolf away from it’s pack.” The words just slipped out...I can’t control my body right now. It was instinct.

Josh smiled. “So you can feel your beast stirring, fighting for your mind, body, and soul. You are a Ventral.”

I felt my heart trying to tear in two, but I broke through the haze. “I wasn’t referring to myself you know, I was refering to you. Rule number one of wolf’s hunting, never hunt alone. And that's exactly what you’ve done. You're alone.”

Josh was still smiling. “Yet you’re alone right now too pup. Just a lost pup, who has yet to taste blood yet… just like nephew Zeke.”

Wait...Zeke is technically my cussion? No, now is not the time to focus on that! “There's a difference between all of us you know. Zeke from what I’ve seen avoids killing. You revel in it. Me? I frankly don't care. I don't care who you are. I don’t care that you're my sperm donor. I only care about one thing…” I glare at him, my darkness finally listening to my light as both found a target… for now. “If you are a threat to my new friends.”

Josh sighed, pulled out his other pistol, and looked at me. “Then you are no different than nephew, a tame dog who only kills when his master needs him most… But…” His gaze went towards Ponyville. “Can you kill this Demon wolf pup? Before he kills off that farm?” He was gone in a nahze as screams came from town.

“Damn it!” I yell as My darkness practically howls in my heart, having lost its prey as I run towards Ponyville, my light to tired to reason anymore.

I saw Josh on top of a roof, above over a dozen corpses. “Like it pup? How weak, how slow you are to protect your masters treasures?” He said with a manic chuckle. “I know I do.”

I practically roar and Flash Step to him, going with the intent to kill him. He crossed the line, and now he’ll pay!

As I drew in, there was another haze, but I couldn’t tell, it was like he had something in front of him, something… purple. “Go on, kill the wolf, but kill me or not, she dies either way.”

“Twilight...sister…” something cleared up and I looked to see her smile she summoned her keyblade into Josh as she disappeared. I blinked as I noticed my clothes were now a lavander. I felt...I felt like I could cast anything. “There is one thing you forgot, oh father. No wolf in a pack is defenceless. But a wolf is stronger with it’s pack. I’m never alone, not anymore. Yes, I feel a need to kill you, and I want to. But I’ll do it protecting my pack!” I yell as I point both keyblades at him.

He kicked me though the house we were on top of before I finished. “You monologue too much.”

“That's my line.” I wheeze out as I stand up. I point both keyblades at him, yelling “MEGA FLARE!” as one per keyblade shoot out with the intent on killing him.

He just took the impact of both hits. I was blinded at first, but when it left the house was destroyed… oops… and he was standing across from me… scan showed his hp… didn’t even move. “Toasty, but not what I was hoping.” He sighed. “Tame dog… and of my own litter… heh, I still know you have it in you to kill… all it takes is for you to be alone… and enraged.”

“We all have it in us to kill, but you just enjoy it. That’s what makes you different.”

He sighed again. “Another failed product of the Ventrals…” There was another haze, I saw him in front of me, his hand on my chest as a burning feeling, like hot metal on skin, was burning on my skin. When he pushed me back, I managed to see the scar… it was the word, Failed Product, branded across my chest. “That makes two of you mutts I gotta put down.”

“Sorry, I heard there's a alpha with rabies that need killing. Could it wait?” I say glaring at him through the pain.

“You’re tough at least.” A DTD opened behind him. “But still not even worth a chase.” Josh said as he walked into the DTD.

“By the way….Mom still love you. Thought you should know.” I said as it started to close. Right before it vanished, there was gunshot as a bullet shot out and hit me in the arm. It burned worse than the magic branding and pulsated with darkness.

Thankfully it wasn’t messing with my head...but I really wanted to tear out my arm as Twilight Canceled the Drive. She had a small cut on her but that is all. “Eclipse..dont worry! I-I’ll take you to Justin! He-he’ll know what to do about the darkness! Hold on!” She said as I Simply stared as the place my father left

You let my prey get away……

Truth Hurts

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Eclipse stared at the point where Josh left the entire time as Twilight dragged him away. She said something but it didn't register until the name Zeke was brought into it. It was then he realised he was in the field where they trained earlier that day. “Please, get Zeke! If you don't know how to handle this, he has to!” Twilight begged Justin.

“I can send a message, let’s just hope he answers.” Justin summoned his Keyblade, and held it into the air. “SOS code, three.” His Keyblade flashed three times.

As Zeke, Unum, and their new nanny exited the DTL, the X-blade flashed. “That was Justin’s Keyblade. Code three.” X spoke through Zeke.

“Busy day.” Zeke said. “Nana, you go find someone and ask them to take you to Twilight and Cid, alright?”

“Alright.” The Purified Invisible said as she floated off.

Zeke opened another DTL, and he and Unum jumped into it.

“Eclipse, can you hear me?” Twilight asked worried. Eclipse nodded slowly before Twilight asked, “Why did that...the monster call you his son, and you called him father. What is going on Eclipse?”

Before he could answer, a DTL opened up nearby.

Zeke and Unum jumped out, and ran over to the group. “The heck happened to Eclipse?” Zeke asked, spotting his new branding. Zeke’s eyes shrunk. “Who did that to you?”

Eclipse looked down, ashamed as he said “My father from earth I never met...Josh Ventral”

Zeke nearly froze. “Josh… so… you’re his son… and my cousin?”

“No offense to you, but I wish I wasn't”

Twilight interrupted. “What the hell is going on?! Last time I checked, Eclipse and I were twins right? So there has to be a mistake right? Our father is Night Light of house Sparkle!” she yelled before tearing up.

Zeke looked at Twilight, then to Eclipse. “You lived a whole other life, reborn literally with someone you could trust… and never told her?”

“How was I?” Eclipse said, the pain in his arm now numb. “I was afraid...afraid of this exact thing….”

Zeke summoned Discord, and held it over Eclipse. “Curega.” The spell healed the wound as the bullet rose out of the hole in Eclipse's arm as it soon healed to where it was like there wasn’t a hole there. “I suppose… but still. The longer you were to brush it off… the more the pain would hurt when the truth came out.”

“You're right...she-Twilight.You deserve the truth.” Eclipse said after moving his arm stiffly “Are you aware of the concept of Reincarnation? Well, The world Zeke came from...the world I was first born in fell of our own stupidity. Lucky me, I was peaceful and just wanted to live life and didn't participate in the slaughter. God, the bastard, let me have a wish. I chose my Keyblades and to live life here, as a pony. Well, because I said I wanted a new life, he played well, god and had me reborn as the pony in front of you….with all of my old memories. Ever wonder how when we were kids, I seemed better at math at first until you went out of your way to beat me? That's why…” As Eclipse finished, he simply looked to the ground. “I'm so, so sorry.”

“No, No you’re not.” Twilight said shaking with anger. “You've lied to me. You lied to everypony! You're not my brother, not my twin.” She snarled as she looked Eclipse over. “Be lucky that coat only works for you or otherwise is take it and let one of the girls have it! You've lied! And now, live with that. I won't tell Spike, but you Better not come within a city of us again. You aren't welcome anymore.” She said before looking away from Eclipse’s pathetic form “I'm going home. I'll be on time for tomorrow’s lesson Justin.”

As Twilight left, right out of view, Eclipse broke into tears. “Justin.” Zeke said. “Make sure to double your usual strength for teaching Twilight. She’ll need to work out her anger.”

“Yes sir.” Justin said, walking back towards town. He sighed as he got out of ears range of his boss. “Hope this works itself out sooner or later, I don’t want Twilight to turn out like I did.” He muttered.

Zeke grabbed Eclipse and was carrying him. “Come on, I know a bar back in Daybreak.” He said as he carried Eclipse though the DTL, Unum close behind.

Eclipse just let it happen, ignoring the voice whispering as he felt himself be pulled through space. He didn't even care on how humiliating it was, just that his one treasure in life has left him. “So...a normal pony in your world...I take it stranger things have happened?” He mutters.

“I purified two Pureblood Heartless so they are now living beings, have hearts, and are intelligent enough to talk. Yeah, stranger things.” Zeke says as he places Eclipse into the bar booth. It was largely empty, pictures of older years hung on the wall, the wood all around the bar was aged, but kept in good care.

“The worst part of all this though? Two high powered, drive form boosted mega flares did Jack shit to Josh...I should know. I have Scan.”

“He’s been experimented on by Core from what I figured. Some kinda black blood and god won’t wanna know what else. Don!” Zeke yelled, getting the barkeeps attention. “Two of my usuals.”

“Two devils poisons coming up.” The barkeep said.

“Creative name. Any reason why it's named that?” Eclipse asked.

“Being a Ventral, we all have stronger than average kidneys and livers. Strong enough that we are about immune to most toxins and venoms, and several man made poisons. Devil's Poison is a mix of everything the barkeep has, with a little magic placed in it to actually give me a buzz, otherwise it would take a truck of moonshine to get me drunk.” Zeke explains.

“Ah, makes sense I guess. Just another thing I have to learn, thankfully not from a rabid wolf.” Eclipse mentions.

“That was Josh’s nickname among the family. So, he branded you too huh?”

“I refused to get into the “Killing Mood” as he calls it. The bastard almost made me kill ….. Twilight….”

Zeke sighed. “THe Killing Mood… when a Ventral first takes a life and the rush of it triggers their own little massacre. All I ever did was hack for information, Josh said I didn’t do enough, branded me like he did you, and gave me a time limit. If God didn’t pick me up I’d likely be dead. He had high hopes for me too… Everyone did…”

“Did? From what little I've seen you went above and beyond…” Eclipse said, his face giving away that he is thinking on something.

“It’s a family of criminals Eclipse, the act of what I’m doing would be considered treason. All because I was born with red eyes, they expected so much from me...”

“Ah, so that's why I had those as a human. I always thought it was a defect and got contact's as soon as I could.”

“Hah. No at all. There’s a legend among the Ventral family. The first Ventral to dive into the darkness, becoming the first in the long, long, long, long line of criminals they are now, was born with red eyes. Every Ventral since then that had the red eyes was about as evil and fucked up as you can imagine. Josh was born with one red eye, one green. His red eye is blind now though, his own doing. The hold the red eyed ventrals as the ‘true demons’ of the family.”

“Though, it's strange. He didn't shoot me until I mentioned that my mom still loved him. Well, before she died but you get the point. Found that odd.”

“Out of all the evil, dastardly, cruel and inhumane things the Ventral family has done, we do believe in love, and that true love only comes once.”

Then why did he leave her. Eclipse thought as the drinks came to the table. They were black, with red foam and in large beer mugs.

“Most likely because he’s the family leader. Josh was always a work first kinda guy.” Zeke said, taking a sip.

Eclipse grabs a mug before taking a sip himself. “That explains who payed the funeral….damn as I said to Josh, everything is lining up while breaking all at once. It sucks.”

“Yeah, but at least you didn’t get raised in a car for about seventy percent of your life and spend the majority of the time in the back reloading your parents guns.”

Deciding to try and lighten the mood, Eclipse said, “Go through puberty twice, and get Twilight pissed enough to turn you female JUST so you can have a period, then we'll talk.”

“Ha! Rune’s been trying to get me to try out gender swapping… not drunk enough for that.”

“Yea…” Eclipse takes another swig. “Luna couldn't even convince me to gender swap if she tried after that.”

“Oh~ So your reflections Luna and you are a thing?”

Eclipse lets himself chuckle. “Yea, kind of. We haven't told anyone yet as it was just a few days ago, but yea, we're a thing.”

“You used protection magic right? She may be a princess, but logic dictates you’d still be paying child support.”

“First, I have a mountain of hits I have yet to spend. Second, we did because we both aren't ready for little one's yet.”

“I already got five.”

“Busy man-” Eclipse says giving Zeke’s shoulder a love tap.

“Sixteen wives keep it that way.”

Eclipse just chuckles “Why am I not surprised?”

“You might be getting a buzz now.”

“Oh yea, that must be it.” Eclipse says with a shrug before taking another sip.

“So, if you and Luna do hook up, anyone gonna join?”

Eclipse’s head hits the table. “I swear, if it is everypony who gets all sparkle eyed on me….I won't complain, but I will probably scream bloody murder at first.”

“Heh, when I first heard I was getting married, cause some old law about saving kingdoms lands you the princesses on this world, which was taken out in the new laws, I was tempted to jump out the window to a ten story drop. When more were joining, I was about ready to fly my glider up to the atmosphere and drop from there.”

“No rest for the wicked I guess.”

“I learned to love them all quick actually. Funny, I had to get sent to another world to find love… sixteen times over, and you had to be reborn to find love.”

“Yup. The only relationship I had was my cat and my games. Other than that, does a stuck up boss who underpays you count?”

“Nope. I’d say not. So, why’d you pick Oathkeeper and Oblivion?”

“Long answer or short, fake answer?”

“Short, you might get too drunk while explaining the long one.”

“Bullshit answer, I loved their appearance. Long one summed up? I always wondered if light and dark could just….stop fighting and become something new.”

“Honestly, I chose the X-blade because it looked cool. After I got it, I learned only someone with a Balanced heart can actually wield it. I somehow have one, and God let me have it. I’m meant to keep darkness and light in balance, with what I’ve done with those two purified purebloods… I think I found a third option when all the fighting settles.”

“Did you know God was hesitant to give me mine? He even said and I quote “keep those two troublemakers in line”. At first I thought he was joking...heh that's what I get for thinking.”

“Huh, well, when I heard X talking to them, he said hi to Oathkeeper, and told Oblivion to eat shit.”

“Odd….I wonder what Oblivion did. When I did a deep dive, he seemed alright…..if blunt.”

“What did Oblivion do X?”

“Arrogant jackass talked his wielder and Oathkeeper into Fighting my fourth wielder. Let’s just say… words were said that battle.” X spoke through Zeke.

“Well, even if they do argue, Oath seems to forgive him. But I'd understand if you can't bring yourself to do the same.”

“How can I? That fight led to both our wielders dying that day...”

“Because...unlike me, you have eternity with them. Holding a grudge will Just cause a back and forth until one of you is destroyed….permanently. But just thing on that okay?” Eclipse says, his speech slightly slurred.

“Heh, maybe some day.”

“You got issues weirder than us X.” Zeke says, his speech not even slurred.

“Weeelll I've done enough civic duty for now. So…we’re cussins.”

“Yeah, my dad is Josh’s brother.”

“Funny how life brings family together huh?” Eclipse says with a attempted humor.

“Especially in ours. Every major fight involved lots of Ventrals there, ever since the numbers just grew.”

“And now the two mutts have the big, bad, Stupid, line stealing alpha after them.”

“And even after he’s gone… Core is still gonna be there with who knows else. I know the whole family is allied with him, but not sure how many others he has other than his reflections.”

“I'm not too worried. Don't get me wrong, I'm scared as hell. But frankly, people like Core and the rest of our family never win in the end. There's a bitch named Karma for a reason. You hurt innocents, it will backfire….eventually.”

“Tell that to about three hundred years worth of crime the family has under their belt.”

“Hey, you and I broke away, and I'm related to head fucker directly. Karma is just getting started I think.”

“Maybe. We won’t know til we finally win a battle against one of Core’s army soldiers in my opinion.”

“You got a point there damn it…”

“Although… we do finally have an upper hand.”

“We do? It's not my good looks is it?”

“Heh, no. The Grandfather Light, the only thing that can kill or cure Core, like it did Unum, and Unum managed to break Core’s Keyblade and take his heart from it.”

Eclipse turns to her, too buzzed to realize Unum was Yellow. “Nice job!”

“Heh.” Unum chuckled. “Well, when he finally told the truth about who I was I just… lost it. But, my late husband was with me in that fight.” She said, summoning the Keyblade she summoned that say. “Even though it’s been countless years… all the sins I’ve committed, he was watching over me.”

“Something everyone should aspire to be...a guardian. Sadly I can't take a hit or else I'd try harder to be one.”

“Isn’t that why they invented enchanted charms?” Unum asks.

“Well, I've never gotten one. This coat is the only enchanted thing I have...and the most defensive as it's made of Orcinium+” Eclipse shrugs

“Impressive. Maybe the old records have a means to upgrade it?” Zeke says. “With the Foretellers help, a lot of once lost information has been recovered. I think there might be something there to help.”

“If there is then knock your selves out. I just ask you all be careful, one of the enchantment took eight people to enact. It allows my drive forms.”

“Well then, let’s go see.” Zeke placed the munny on the table for the drinks, picked Eclipse up and hung him over his shoulder and he and Unum walked back to the castle. After a short walk, and Eclipse taking a nap the whole way there, Zeke dropped Eclipse on one of the tables in the Workshop. “There should be something around here.”

“A bit of warning before you drop a sleeping person next time?” Eclipse complains.

Zeke summoned Discord, and held it over Eclipse’s head. “Detoxify.” A strange magic flowed through Eclipse, who could suddenly think more clearly. “Can’t have you drunk while we look.”

“Yea… did help me forget though..so thanks. For the drinks I mean.”

“Don’t mention it.” Zeke said, looking over the still standing bookshelves. “I think this shelf had volumes about magic clothing and such?”

“Well, there is a way to quickly check. The perks of being a unicorn.” Eclipse says before casting a spell to read every label for anything related to clothing. “Yup, that's the one.”

Zeke grabbed the look and began skimming through the pages. “Let’s see here… Spell matrix fine tuning… no, spell re-enchanting… no, Ah, Enchanted clothing enhancing. Let’s see… if clothes or armor are already made with oricorlium or stronger, their durability and resistance to damage can be increased by three methods.”

“Huh...Didn't think it’d be that simple.” Eclipse said, looking around the room.

“Method one involves smelting either light or darkness and having the item in question absorb it, increasing the power of both the spells placed on it, and the durability of the item.”

“Interesting, but gathering pure light and darkness has to be harder than it sounds.”

“Method two involves cutting a small part of the wearer's heart and smelting it into the item. The person and the item will be linked, and it’s strength will from then on be determined by the wearers determination… feel like that’s a reference or something?”

“Also worrying for me. My heart looked like it was dim last time I checked. Don't think that will help a weak heart.”

“Well that only leaves option three. Placing the item in a pure liquid mana pot until it suckes in all the mana, though, it’s labeled as risky.”

“So lets break it down. We have one that will be hard to gather materials for, one that's risky to my heart, and one that is a unknown.” Eclipse said in an analytical voice.

“Well that last one is listed as risky because the wearers mana must be used. And it says that all the mana must be taken for it to have the full effect, it would leave you in a near death state. As the warning states.”

Eclipse looks out a window before sighing and looking back at Zeke. “Well, half the enchantment only work for me anyways. Lets attempt number three. Besides, I don't think we’re going to find any pure darkness any time soon.”

“Alright, now we just need the mana pot, and the drainer… Say Eclipse… can you knock a random bookshelf over?”

Eclipse looks at Zeke quizzically before lighting his horn and telekinetically knocking one over at random.

When the bookshelf fell over, a large green pot fall on top of the pile of books. “Wow… worked. Guess it wasn’t just Kira.” Zeke said, grabbing the pot and placing it next to Eclipse. “Drainer is in the desk.” Zeke quickly ran over to the desk, taking out a strange device and placed it on the edge of the pot. “Alright, book said just touch the thing then when it stops you’ll feel like you got hit by… well, I don’t know what that word meant, so I’ll just say a train.”

“Megh, I got hit by a angry Josh, Nightmare Moon, Twilight, Justin, A Half heartless monster, a Yellow core whom I’m assuming is Unum, I think one more on the tally board won’t be a issue.”

Eclipse placed a hoof on the device. As soon as he did, he could feel it pulling his mana out of him as a blue glowing liquid poured out of it and into the pot. At first it didn’t feel like much, but as time dragged on, he began to feel tired, and his hoof felt like it wanted to crack in two. After about three hours, the mana finally stopped flowing, and Eclipse fell over on the table, breathing in calm, steady breaths. He managed to get his vest off and threw it into the pot.

“It doesn’t hurt….just make you feel..heh...drained.” He chuckles before wincing. “Okay, no jokes.”

Unum placed a bowl next to Eclipse. “Heh, I could only grab some applesauce real quick, figured you’d be too tired after that to chew.”

“Well, you’re right….sadly…”

“And… I’m sorry for… your arm…”

“Don’t be...Honestly, If I thought what I was doing was right I’d commit genocide. If it was to protect the few I give a shit about, nothing is too much. Besides...nothing a little magic could have fixed.”

“Heh, yeah… still. At least take this for an apology…” Unum placed a green Wayfinder next to Eclipse. “It was a gift from my late husband… I don’t think I need it anymore… I’m honestly surprised I kept it all these years.”

“Are you sure? This….this is more than an apology, it’s a memory.”

“I can summon his Keyblade now, and I think it’s about time someone else takes it anyway. They say a Wayfinder passed down from person to person gives more strength than any that could be made newly.”

“I...Thank you.” Eclipse says, his darkness calming down for the first time today. “Really. Now how long will it take to soak?” He asks Zeke.

“Book says all night. You should get some rest, so you can stay in a guest room for the night and tomorrow we can see just what this has done to enhance the thing.” Zeke replies.

“Fine by me…”

But Family is Forever

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Twilight was still furious by the time training started the next day. Spike tried to ask what was wrong and she dodged the question, but had no such luck with the other girls. The worst part for her is that they agreed with him, even Applejack!.

“Are you ready Twilight?” Justin asked. His Keyblade ready, and the orders from Zeke were going to be followed.

“Yeah, yeah. What’s on today's agenda?” Twilight said, summoning her own Keyblade.

“Simply put, fear.” Before she could even question what he meant, she was struck from under her chin, and sent flying into the atmosphere only to be slammed back down to the ground, two legs broken, and a large gash on her side.

Twilight felt her lung launched as her lower body felt like it was dust. “H-how….”

“You really think I wasn’t holding back on you all? Even now I’m only using about forty percent of what I can do.”

“C-Curaga.” Twilight mutters out as her bones snap back into place, and the gash repairs into a scar.

“Todays lesson, is fear. To know what it will bring you to.” Justin sideswiped Twilight, and she was sent flying. Everything was a blur for her, until she slammed side first into the Cake’s shop.

“H-how?! Only forty percent….” Twilight says as she slowly gets up from the rubble, her keyblade having taken the brunt of the force.

She saw Justin standing in front of her. “I didn’t earn fifth highest ranked fighter in Daybreak for nothing, and I plan on placing my new rank as Keyblade master to the test with you.”

“M-master!” Twilight said as she quickly cast spell after spell to shield herself for what is to come.

Justin merely walked up to her magic shield, and flicked a finger at it as it shattered. “Needs work.” He said, grabbing her by the horn and throwing her all the way back to the training ground at Sweet Apple Acres.

With a crash, another crater appeared from Twilight’s landing. She coughed as she instinctively looked for Eclipse before remembering, her stubbornness thinking damn him! I can take this...I hope.

She saw justin somehow JUMP back to the training area in what looked like one leap. “You ever wonder why my Keyblade is made from bones and broken katanas?” He asked her.

Twilight shook her head. “I haven't. I don’t even know why mine looks the way it does.”

“Keyblades, they are alive. They search for wielders that are compatible with them, their form is the result of their power, special traits, and some individuality. Mine, Fallen Brethren, has a rather unique ability among Keyblades.” He struck his Keyblade into the ground. “Reanimation.” A shockwave flowed into the ground, soon, armored skeletons, pony and human began to rise from the ground, a total of thirty-six were risen, all looking at Twilight. “Any warrior, that is too stubborn to pass on, I can bring to my aid.”

“Thats...Thats necromancy!”

“Not when the warriors are willing. They are asked by my Keyblade to fight with me, and they accept. As warriors, to fight after death is an honor.”

Twilight shakes, but it is unknown if it is fear, or adrenaline fueled. “Trained warriors at your disposal….and only forty percent…” she mutters, her scholarly mind trying to mathematically judge Justin’s full power. The numbers it came up with were frightening. “Your...no….nopony could be that powerful.” She says, charging a AOE spell.

The risin soldiers charged at Twilight, rusten, and chipped weapons in their grasp as they charged at her, while Justin just stood and watched.

As the Spell was released, the entire area around her was impaled with ice spikes, screwing the undead warriors. She followed up with a fire way for good measure, slight overkill in her mind but she did it anyways.

“You say no one can be so powerful, yet you forget, we are against Core… and he. Is. a. Demon.” Justin said.

“I don’t even KNOW that much about Core! That was Eclipse who said what we were up against! He seemed to know, but like always, he said nothing!” She responded, smashing another Warrior with her blade, his skull going flying.

“Let me put it this way then, can you imagine the power he can have, is one swing of his weapon can destroy an entire planet of warriors? Entire reflections, gone by his hand?”

“That...That’s god power! Even the princesses don't have that power!” Twilight responded, startled.

“What did you expect?” Justin said, raising his Keyblade to her. “Core is the brother of Zeke’s god.” He rushed in, sideswiping Twilight and sending her flying. When she crash landed, she was in the old castle in the Everfree.

“It was here…” She said as the room where Eclipse and Nightmare fought for the entire night until her and her friends showed up. She stood up, using her keyblade as a crutch to keep upright.

“You know,” Justin said, somehow standing at the doorway across from her. “I had a brother too…”

“Had?”

“We were soldiers, fighting Heartless off our world. He never stopped and thought about his own health, just his need to protect our world, his family, and nation.”

“That’s...noble of him.” she said, not liking where this is going.

“It was selfish. He nearly dies so many times, until that luck ran out… he was swallowed into darkness with our world. Then again, at that point he didn’t have anything to lose. His wife, children, killed by Heartless. I somehow woke up in Traverse Town, a Wayward world for those that lost their own.”

“Why tell me this?” Twilight said, her stubbornness making her hard headed.

“Because my brother and Eclipse are the same. My brother kept how bad things were so we wouldn’t be scared, and just like him, didn’t care if he dies so long as the ones he cared about stay alive.”

She looked at him starting to get it. “But, He lied about who he was for eighteen years. He lied.”

“So did my brother. Each day the Heartless took over more and more of our world and he said we were winning. He wanted to keep them from finding out because he feared their reaction, that he may end up with nothing left to lose, and he did, because by then it was too late. The words you said to Eclipse, you gave him nothing left to lose.”

It clicked in Twilight’s head. Although they are different reasons, they walk the same path. The path that lead to the death of one family already. “I bucked up big time….” She said, looking at the floor of the ruins.

“Yeah, you did. Good news is though, you can still make it up. Council member Zeke took Eclipse back to Daybreak with him. I’m sure they’ll pop back up soon.”

“If he even wants to come back after what I did…”

“He does care about you, that I know. You are his reason for staying alive after the fighting is done. WHen he comes back, just say I ‘knocked’ the sense into you.”

“Heh...not far from the truth.” She said, chuckling.

“Orders from Zeke himself.”

“Welp, should we head back, or continue?”

“Only if you want an express ticket to the moon… and through it to the next planet?”

“......Let’s head back.”

“Good call, space combat should be after you all have Keyblade armor anyway.”

Eclipse awoke in a strange room. He sat up and yawned, Still sore. “Morning Twi...oh right.” He said before remembering the events of yesterday. He opened the door to the hallway outside, wondering where the hell the kitchen was.

He wondered around for a time, before finally finding someone… It was an anthro Twilight. “Oh, you must be that guest Zeke and Unum brought yesterday.” She said.

“Y-yeah.” He said, despite this Twilight being anthro, he had to keep himself from saying ‘hey sis’ out of habit.

“Well, as you can tell, you’re in a gummi ship that was refurbished to be a hose for us. It’s still largely empty, but we try and keep exploring it. Anything you needed?”

“I uh...was trying to find the kitchen. Besides being hungry, I’m normally the one cooking at home.”

“I’m headed to the dining room now actually… I kinda spent all night in the lab… again.” She said with a cheeky smile, scratching the back of her head.

“Twilights of all reflection have that problem I bet.” He says chuckling.

“Most likely. Well come on, just follow me and we’ll be there in no time.”

Despite the uncomfortable feeling Eclipse was getting from being with this reflection Twilight, he kept close, thinking over how he could somehow make it right with her. After ten or so minutes, they arrived in a large dining room, where fifteen other women, several children, seven babies, and Zeke were sitting and eating what looked like a breakfast buffet. “Oh, Hey Eclipse.” Zeke said, feeding one of the babies.

“Wow.” Eclipse says, finding a strange liking of this picture, this huge family, all loving each other.

“PONY!” One of the blond haired, grey fur kids yelled, running up to Eclipse and petting him all over. “He’s so pretty!”

“Dinky!” Who he guessed her mother, who he recognized as Derpy, yelled. “That’s our guest Eclipse!”

“Haha, it’s okay. Besides, how did you expect a little girl to react?” He said, laughing at Dinky’s antics.

Dinky pat Eclipse once more before running back to her seat. Eclipse took a seat next to a pink filly, he soon realised it was Diamond Tiara. “Hey.” She said.

“Hey. So, you live with Zeke?” He said, minding his manners.

“Yeah, we all got sorta got adopted into this family. I was one of the few survivors from… before.”

“Ah….well, if you ever need another helping hand to beat somepony senseless, ask Zeke to call me kay?” Eclipse said, knowing the loss of parents.

“Unless we’re fighting Core I’ll be fine. Besides, as far as I care… I only lost a friend back then.”

“Don’t worry, friends have a habit of showing up again, even when you don’t want them to. You’ll see them again.”

“Heh, I suppose. Dad did manage to bring back Sweetie, Applebloom, and the others. Only a matter of time before Silver returns.”

Eclipse smiles at the hope he feels from Diamond, glad this one isn’t a bitch like his. He looks around the table and closed his eyes, a smile plastered on his face. “Heh...Never thought I’d ever see something so happy in my old life.”

“Go on, grab some food.” The kid next to him, Scootaloo, said, placing a stack of waffles on his plate.

Eclipse opens his eyes and nods to Scootaloo. “Thanks kid.” Before also grabbing some bacon. “I’d never thought I’d try this again….hopefully being a herbivore now doesn’t ruin the flavor.”

As Eclipse ate, he kept looking at Zeke, how he fed the infants along with their mothers. He noticed that the Cake twins were among them, but their parents weren't. He nearly dropped his jaw when he saw one of the babies, glow, and change into a Keychain. “Come on Freddy…” Zeke said.

“He just...Did I just….you know, I need to stop being surprised at this point.” Eclipse said, sinking in his chair before looking down, thankful that his fur mostly covers the branding.

“Heh, sorry, turns out being a Human Keyblade makes any kids you have the same… though I am not sure if I can change like they do?” Zeke said. The baby in question changing back into a baby.

“Da-dang Zeke, and I thought dealing with a problem every saturday was big, you got me beat by a mile trying to figure yourself out!”

“All I know is that Keyblades can talk through me, I can talk to them, and store the rusted ones from the Graveyards in my heart so they can heal and be safe.”

“Hm….” Eclipse says, his brain working on overdrive. “From what I gathered, Keyblades all have their own hearts, and your body naturally stores them. Your body is acting like a Kingdom Hearts for Keyblades in a sense...but if that was the case and you are a living Keyblade...then there is a chance Kingdom Hearts is similar in a way, only for all hearts instead of specific like yours. If this is correct, Kingdom Hearts is the Keyblade of Creation itself.”

“Actually, that title goes to the Grandfather Light. Kingdom Hearts only made the Keyblades.”

“Ah, well, there goes that theory. I may have taken after too much of the Twilight in my reflection.” He says, rubbing the back of his head

“Seems so. Anyway, after breakfast we should check on your vest and see how much has improved.”

“Yeah, but for now, enough talks of business. Lets just enjoy ourselves!” Eclipse says before purposely digging into the food is a Pinkie Pie style for entertainment reasons.

After breakfast, Zeke, Eclipse, and Unum went back to the Workshop to check on the vest. All the mana in the pot was gone, leaving the vest sitting at the bottom. It’s colors changed, looking much like how Sora’s Final Form colors looked. The most notable change was on the sides. On the right side, was the image of a white Oblivion Keyblade, and on the left, was a black Oathkeeper.

“Well, a ten for style. That’s a start right?”

“Put it on, the area isn’t far from here, we can see just how strong you got.”

With a nod, Eclipse reaches in and puts it on, smiling at the comforting feeling on the vest on him. “Well, per usual I don’t feel different, but that doesn’t mean anything until it’s tested.”

“Yeah, that’s about right.” Zeke said. The trio made their way to the arena. At first it looked like a large building, plain and simple. On the inside, there were many doors and a large screen next to each door, showing battles on them. “You remember the Mirage arena?”

“Yeah, barely. Do remember it’s been eighteen years for me, so I don’t remember everything.”

“Well, we built this from what we found that was left over. Not sure what, but a scouter a while ago found it, and it looked like something bit it in half. We managed to make this from what we recovered. The rooms sorta… digitalize you and you fight in a computer simulation. Twi and Cid made this and I get most of it. Still cool… even though the coding and programing is a pain.”

“I’ll take your word on it. So, what’s first on the list?”

The trio walked up to one of the doors, Zeke tapped on the door and a hologram appeared. “Let’s see, you wanna fight someone who’s logged in, or a simulation?”

“As much as I’m most likely going to get my ass handed to me, let’s go pvp”

“Alright then. Let’s see… Ah, Rebecca is on.”

Eclipse summons Oathkeeper and Oblivion into his hooves “So, how will this work? Will we both digitalize or….”

“Unum and I can watch from the screen here, you just walk in when the doors open, the doors close, you see a bright light, when it fades Rebecca will be across from you in a randomly selected arena floor.”

“Makes sense. Let’s get this show on the road then.”

Zeke pressed a few more buttons before the door opened. Eclipse walked in, and was blinded by a bright light. When it fades, he was in the belly of Monstro, where a woman with red hair, blue eyes, wearing rather tight clothing and the Pixie Petals Keyblade stood across the room from him. “So, you’re Eclipse? Justin must have his work cut out for him.” She says.

“Yeah well, We did impress him once on the first day. So that’s something I guess.” Eclipse responded, getting casually into a ready stance.

There was a floating countdown, from ten. “So, I take it you're here for training?”

Nine.

“More like testing. This outfit can’t wear itself you know.”

Eight.

“Fair enough. Got a reason other than testing to fight?”

Seven.

“Many reasons. Getting the strength to protect, Vengeance, the whole deal.”

Six.

“Typical manly nonsense.”

Five.

“But most of all...protect. And that is not manly, thats family.”

Four.

“Fair enough. I fight to keep my kids safe, after we lost our world.”

Three.

“Heh, they must be proud to have a warrior for a mother.”

Two.

“Yeah, I didn’t earn the rank of second strongest fighter in Daybreak for nothing.”

One.

Eclipse thought to himself. Well shit.

The match began, and Rebecca was faster than he expected. He managed to block. “Nice, not many can handle my attacks and block it.”

“Well, you know what they say, Don’t count your chickens until they hatch.” Eclipse replies, flash-stepping behind her and using Oblivion to try and attack her back.

He hit, side swiping her against the wall. Scan show’s a small chip in her HP. Her only response to his attack was poping her neck and smiling. She got back up and used Ars Arcanum, dealing a lot of damage to Eclipse, who somehow managed to block her last strike.

I need to stop holding back. Eclipse thought as he cast a strange Blizzard spell out of Oathkeeper, Sliding on the ice that followed it.

Eclipse felt his vest tingle, and before he could react it glowed as power rushed through him. When the feeling stopped, he looked like he was half frozen, but he felt fine. “Wow, that’s new.” Rebecca said.

Eclipse didn’t respond and instead decided to test it out. He tried to flash step closer to Rebecca and fire off two Blizardagas at her.

His flash-stepping had a new effect, they sent out shards of ice all around him as he did them, striking Rebecca and he cast the two Blizardagas at her, freezing her solid before she broke free forcefully. “Damn, not bad.” She said. She dashed forward, surrounded by fire. As she made contact steam filled the arena, and Eclipse had a few burns from the impact.

Eclipse decided to experiment and, while their blades were crossed, made a Thundaga arc between his Keyblades and shoot across to Rebecca. “I’m honestly shocked by all this>” he said, having fun with this fight.

To his surprise, Rebecca grabbed both his Keyblades by their tips, the arc right above her hands. “No puns please.” She managed to take both out of his magic grasp, and held both and side swiped Eclipse with his own Keyblades. “These look amazing! Are they twins?”

“As far as I know.” Eclipse says standing up a ways away, not wanting to use his trump card just yet.

“Impressive. Twin Keyblades with the same wielder. My son and daughter are twins too, they always stick together, guess Keyblades are the same.”

“Yea...always stick together.” Eclipse says, thinking about his Twilight. “Oblivion, Oathkeeper, Do your thing.” He says as the blades struggle to out of Rebecca’s grip. They catch her off guard and float without any magical help before attacking without Eclipse even near them. Meanwhile, Eclipse is charging a spell….one that he always wanted to try before.

“Damn, you got skills guy!” She said, taking the hits without much resistance.

“Naw, that’s just those two getting to stretch their legs. I have nothing to do with that.” Eclipse says with a smirk before adding another layer to the spell, the mana in front of him practically visible.

“Well in any case.” She said, somehow grabbing both Oathkeeper and Oblivion, and holding them still. “I gotta end this quick, my kids parent career day is today. Now, you get to see just why I am ranked second.” Eclipse’s eyes widened as a white and dark aura flowed around her simultaneously. The energies flowed into his Keyblades, and they shined with power. Rebecca rushed forward, landing perfectly with each of Eclipse’s own Keyblades, a hit on him. Eclipse fell over, and the arena faded as he found himself being dragged out of the simulation room.

“Damn, that vest did get an upgrade.” Zeke said.

“Heh, I just wish Oblivion and Oathkeeper could have kept her busy enough to let me let off my spell. That would have been cool.”

“Sorry kid, but I do need to get going soon.” He looked up, seeing Rebecca standing across from him. “As you can see, guess how I pulled that off?”

Eclipse closed his eyes before opening them. “You were able to feel the darkness and light in each and used your own to power them to the point where it added to your attack?” He guessed.

“Not even close. It’s an ability I learned way back when… as Council member Zeke knows, and it only works if I’m holding my opponents Keyblade. I reach into their heart, replicate their full potential with my own, and attack them with their own strength. That attack kid, was technically all you.”

“That’s a mix of Impressive, scary, and awe inspiring all rolled into one sushi roll. But you have kids to get to now, don’t you?”

“Yeah, I’ll likely see you again.” She said as she left.

Zeke helped Eclipse up. “Can you guess where she learned that?” He asked.

“I could guess, but then I’d be wrong. My guess a mark of mastery exam.”

“Sorta… she learned it from her master… before the Keyblade War.”

“Wait…..what?”

“She fought in the Keyblade War, and survived. She’s a good one, she left the battle ground before things got real nasty. When a Scouter found her, she was just a ‘housewife’, but when she moved to Daybreak, X could feel what she really was. We talked, now she teaches some amazing moves, her family is safe, and she can hold her Keyblade in pride again.”

“Now that is one badass momma bear. I pity the sod who breaks up with her daughter later in life.”

“You and me both. So, feel better? Your vest kept you in the battle longer than just her first hit.”

“Kinda. I mean, don’t get me wrong. If I would even do a single blip on HER HP, I’m one happy stallion. But emotionally….the moment we started talking about twins I lost focus. I just..I just was afraid to say anything to anyone. The only pony I think who knew was Luna, and that is because for the first time in all my years on Equestria, I stopped having nightmares about telling Twilight the day we got together.”

“Why do you think I set up you and her in a fight? Even if you aren’t biological, you were reborn as her twin, you are part of her family, your family. Blood doesn’t make family, the people do.”

“Family isn’t who you're born with….it’s who you’d die for….That quote always drew me as a kid...I guess I know why now. Hehe.”

“Exactly, by blood, we are relatives of ‘demons’, but we chose to live as humans. What do ya say cousin? Let’s go see if your sister will forgive you.” Zeke said, holding out a hand.

“Heh, you know, for the only family I really have from earth, I’m glad you're my cousin. Even if you do need to just relax at times.” Eclipse says, taking Zeke’s hand

Zeke opened a DTL, and he, Eclipse, and Unum walked through it.

Twilight sat under an apple tree, Justin next to her as the two relaxed. “Seriously? You had nightmares about F’s before you were even in school?” Justin asks.

As a DTL opened behind the two, Eclipse’s voice called out. “Yea...Annoyed me at times when she would climb into my bed because of it.”

Twilight turned around and spotted Eclipse, Zeke and Unum walk through the DTL. She barely control herself from running over and apologising like a mad mare…..for about three seconds. She tackled him to the ground. “I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m sorry! I should never had said that, please don't do something stupid I’m sorry brother!”

Zeke walked over to Justin. “I see you did your part.”

“Yes sir.” Justin replied.

“We will find your brother Justin… it will take time though.”

“I know… I just hope Sephiroth hasn’t gone too mad by now.”

Eclipse stood up, holding Twilight close. “It's okay sis….I’m here and for what it’s worth….I’m sorry to. I should have told you years ago and I let my fear hold me back. No more secrets between us from now on okay?” Twilight nodded into his chest as Eclipse held her close. X noticed his darkness was active….but it was acting more like a guardian than anything.

Huh… it’s accepting this? Looks like brother and sister might live up to what they were forged for after all.

I Love Days Like This

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To say my time with Zeke was good would be a understatement. He gave me more strength, showed me his family, and let me see how powerful I can become. But the best thing he had done for me...was helping me get my sister back. After seeing Zeke and Unum off Twilight and I decide to call it in and just spend the rest of the day together.

We started by going home and making breakfast for Twilight. Apparently, with Twi being used to me making most of the meals she forgot to eat. Some pancakes later we started talking. I told her about what I saw on Zeke’s world, even about meeting the anthro version of her. To say she was inspired was to say that Discord only likes chaos. She even had a notepad out to record what I said. When I finished my story I gave her a hug. “Don’t focus too much on it Sis, you’re drive yourself insane trying to get it all done.”

“Heh, like you're one to talk. You probably held back from asking a million questions.” She responded, hugging me back. “So, are you going to train some more?”

“Naw, I thought I’d use today to relax. Overworking is just as bad as being lazy.” I say, breaking the hug and ruffling her mane.

“No it's not….”

“....You’ve been in the lab again haven’t you.”

“Yes…..”

“Tried to figure out Pinkie?”

“......Yeah.”

“I naped the whole time?”

“I was so bucken pissed.”

I sighed. “Well, I’m going to ask Spike to send Luna a letter.”

“Oh right! You have to send a report about how you are doing in your studies!”

“Nope!”

“....No?”

“Nope. I don’t need to send reports to Luna at all. I’m sending a letter to her to ask if she has any free time later tonight.”

“Why?” Twilight asked as I turned my back to her and walked in the direction of Spike’s room

“Simple. I’m going to ask her out on a date.”

“Oh okay.” She said before it clicked on what I had said. “You’re going to do what?!”

After calming Twilight down (Thank you conveniently placed Starswirl book) and having Spike send the letter, I decided to hit the hay. After all, Luna is nocturnal. It would be rude to end our date early because I fell asleep. Anyways I fell asleep until about five pm when I got up again. The letter Spike left at my desk said that she’d be down in ponyville at around 9 so that left me four hours to kill….and plan for the date because I realised one flaw in my mad plan. It was a simple problem really.

I didn’t have anything planed.

I wish I could say I didn’t start to have a panic attack, but Twilight and I have a few traits we share as twins. Panic attacks are one of them. I quickly started to pace and run my hooves through my mane. I didn’t even notice how long I was panicking until Twilight told Spike to go to bed. That means it’s already eight damn it! I quickly started to think. Would she like night clubs? Maybe just a moonlit stroll? What the hell am I going to do?!

Suddenly there was a knock on the door and my blood ran cold. I went down stairs and opened the door to see Luna standing there.

“Greeting.” She said… Holy fuck she was so dolled up!

Nerves...I hate you. “H-hey Luna. you ready for tonight?” I said with a small, quiet gulp.

“Yes, I am. And I can tell you are as well. Do I smell cologne?”

“Heheh, Yeah… Too much?” I asked. Even on Earth I never got a date. It was always something about me girls hated. So this is really my first date, cut me some slack!

She got in real close to my face, took what was a purposefully long sniff, and smiled. “Just right.” She whispered seductively.

“Heheh. You look beautiful tonight Luna. Did you doll up especially for me?” I asked.

“Sister helped. This is my first date in… ever, so I didn’t know how to dress.”

“Heh, this is my first date ever, so you have more experience than me in this.” I admitted.

“Least you don’t act like the nobles, so, where to?”

Think Eclipse, THINK DAMNIT! “Uh...How about we go out for dinner? I know of a place I’d think you like. After, would you like to walk around town, enjoy your night?”

“I would love that. Lead the way, parum pudici~”

“Parum pudici? What does that mean Mistress Luna?”

“I’ll tell you later, and please, no mistress. This is a date.”

“Heh, yeah, I guess I can do that~” I say, offering my hoof

She took it and we walked off. I barely caught Twilight pulling out a blank note book. What is she writing? We walked to the restaurant, and to say the staff and ponies there were shocked would be an understatement. From the second we entered it was five star treatment… where did the red carpet come from though? “So, what is this place?” Luna asked.

“Well, it’s the only non-bakery or fast food joint in town. Luna, Welcome to the place I eat once in a blue moon….Blue Moon…..yea that was bad.” I said, facehoofing.

She chuckled. “Bad puns you laugh at regardless aside, I took your advice and played some video games.”

Finally, a topic I can talk about and know what the buck I’m saying! “You have? Do you enjoy them?”

“Yes, they are really exciting. So far I’m enjoying Sandbox and RPG games, which do you like?”

“RPGs are my personal favorite. The act of putting yourself in the hooves of a random pony going through that kind of adventure is amazing.”

“I agree. I have to have a staff member buy them for me though, you can imagine that if I walked into a game store how press would go wild. I got a few portable consoles, stationary ones, and such. Though, I am really enjoying these two games I think are connected? The main character in one looked very much like a character in the other.”

“Really? What games?” I said

“Birth By Sleep, and 358/2 Days. I haven’t gotten far in the first one, but I’m close to finishing the other one.”

Oh crap. What the hell are Kingdom Hearts games doing in this reflection?! Thankfully I have a good poker face when I want, but Zeke and the others need to know this. “I like those two, and they are connected, but in order to understand it completely, you need to play every game, and I mean every single one. But of the two you have? I really like 358/2.”

“Oh, so it is a series of games then. That makes some sense. So far I am worried about the Xion character, for an E rated game it’s rather dark. I like them though because somepony made a game about Keyblades, Celestia and I can relate to that, and I feel you can too.”

“Heh, Yea. And the rating is because of the other games really. Those two are the darkest of the series, but the entire series is dark if you pay attention.”

“I could tell. I’m still rather lost, but I suppose I’ll have to find and play the others. I’m real close to beating 358/2 Days, I just ran away from the Organization.”

“Oh...that is rather late into the game.” I said, slightly afraid. That means she is close to seeing Roxas with both Oblivion and Oathkeeper. This is bad.

“One thing that kept coming up in both was a character named Sora, how does he fit in all of this?”

“Well...He is the main protagonist. He was the main character for a good chunk of the games. Beyond that, I can’t say much else without spoiling it. And trust me, you don't want that.” Shit shit shit shit!

“If you insist. Still, I never heard of the company that made it, nor are there anything online about it. That makes finding out all the secret stuff I think it has hard to find… though, something did catch me as odd.”

“What was odd?”

“You use these… panels to change what your Keyblade looks like and it’s power, right?”

“Oh that system…..You see, 358/2 Days has a different system than the others. The panels are not in any other game, thank god for small favors.”

“Ah, well I placed one on…. And it looked so much like Twilight’s Keyblade. I’m sure I was just seeing things, but they did look a lot alike.”

Fuck...I forgot about that. Time for some Keyblade lore I’m surprised she doesn’t know. “Well, that can actually be explained. I don’t know how whoever made the game knew about the Keyblades, But you notice how on the end of every Keyblade is a keychain?”

“Yes, my parents explained that to sister and I.”

“Well then, it can be explained that Roxas found the keychain to Twilight’s Keyblade.”

“But how does a game relate to real life?”

Sigh. I promised no more lies. Now is the time to hold true to that. “Well...You see Luna…. You know how I had a Nightmare a few days ago about telling something to Twilight?” I said, looking at the menu so to not make eye contact.

She was blushing. “Ummm. No… I was up all night playing the game…”

It is my turn to chuckle “Hehe, anyways, I did...and she found out the secret yesterday. Now...I don’t want to have a relationship with you where I’m constantly holding secrets with you. Please...don’t flip when I drop the knowledge bomb.”

“You tell me your secrets, I’ll tell mine. Deal?”

I smile “Deal. I’ll start with one, and we’ll take turns.” The waiter came and we ordered our food before we continued. “Well, to start, I wasn’t always a pony. I used to live on a world called earth that fell thanks to everyone being idiots. I was given a second chance and was reborn as a pony.”

“Huh, reincarnation with all your memories intact. Impressive. Well, my sister and I got our Keyblades from our parents. They left one day to fight in a war everypony with a Keyblade at the time was preparing for… they never came back.”

“Oh….I’m sorry.” I said, knowing what war she was talking about.

“Eclipse… I remember how their Keyblades looked like…”

“Really? What was unique about their Keyblades that was so memorable?”

“Like sister and mine’s, they were twins… you have them.”

[Tire screech. Crash!] “They wielded….Oblivion and Oathkeeper?”

“Mother had Oathkeeper, father had Oblivion. They say that if twin Keyblades chose separate wielders, ones that are not kin, then they are destined to be together. When they both chose the same wielder, then it’s because their heart can hold the weight of every world in battle.”

“That’s….wow…” I said “I certainly don’t feel like I can. I was freaking out about our date tonight.”

“That only proves your heart is caring, yet in battle you fear little so long as those you cherish are safe. Qualities both Oathkeeper and Oblivion search for.”

I smile at Luna...god the night complements her so well. ”Thanks Luna. So, next secret? The games you're playing originated from my world. They are actually named after the Heart of all worlds. Kingdom Hearts.”

“Oh… well that makes sense. Now for me… I, and sister doesn’t even know this, have two Keyblades.”

...wat. “Thats….heh, that's coincidental.”

“Well, When going through some of my parent’s things years after they were gone, I found a recipe to make a Keyblade called Ultima Weapon. I at first was surprised to see only a keychain came out, but when I placed it on a sword for decoration, it changed into a Keyblade.”

“Wait, You have Ultima Weapon? That Keyblade is one of the most powerful to exist, legendary keyblades aside.”

“It’s name my give off that impression, but I think that if you have to make it then that means there might be lots of it out there. If I found the recipe then how many others did?”

“Not as many as you’d think, but more than I thought.”

“Meh, so, your next secret?”

“Well, next secret is that those games...as far as I know they ether really happened or have yet to happen if my cousin Zeke has anything to say on the matter.”

“Oh, so they are a form of prophecy. A modern take as well. Well, for me, I’ve actually met another Keyblade wielder other than you before.”

“Really? What was their name?”

“Yes. It was long before my banishment. She was a strange mare, though I doubt she was actually a pony given the things you’ve told me, she was searching for friends and such. Never got her name.”

“Hmm. Well, it might be someone from the games, but you can't be sure really. My turn. On earth, the world apparently was really good at prophecies because there was a show that would play that told of the events of this world….mind you without the heartless and Keyblades but a version of this world none of the less.”

“Multiverse then. Interesting. Well, I don’t think I have anything else to tell off the top of my head? So, I’ll just ask you a question… was… what we did in the field that night… your first?”

I blushed so hard. God, you really hate me don’t you? “Yeah…..You are honestly my first relationship….”

“Same. Heh, that was my first time too.” We were both blushing as our food came.

I had a nice salad that was way to pricey for what it was made out of and Luna had pretty much the same. “So...Why did you ask?” I said after we ate a little.

“Well, given that you were reborn as a pony I figured you might have had sex before that happened.”

“Heh, most of the opposing gender, hell even the same gender, didn’t like me, even when I did nothing wrong.”

“Sounds like your old race was… rather selfish.”

“They were for the most part. You had the occasional gem, but most were stupid and selfish. Our world had a prophecy that our world was going to end, and everyone was so stirred up by it, they caused it to be a reality.”

“How did you escape it? Or be reborn as a pony?”

“Well….Our god had the prophecy as a test. Those who participated in the chaos or added to it stayed, the rest of us were given a way out. He asked us where we wanted to go, and granted us powers. He is the one who gave me my Keyblades, and when he asked for a world I wanted...I chose this one. I actually wasn’t expecting to be reborn, but he took my wording of ‘new life, new adventures’ litteral. Not that I’m complaining.”

“Heh, he must have had some sense of humor.”

“I’ll never live that down.” I didn’t even notice the grey maned, white fur elderly stallion next to our table.

“God?”

“In the flesh.” He replied.

“Wait, he is your god?” Luna asked, pointing a hoof at him.

“Well, he looked different last time I saw him.” I said shrugging before turning to god again “So, any reason you’re crashing my date?”

“Two, one is that you're getting really strong now Eclipse. Oathkeeper and Oblivion’s true power might be unlocked sooner than expected.”

“Wait...Their true power? What the buck do you mean?”

“You don’t think twin Keyblades exist for collection purposes, do you? Each set both are needed to unlock an amazing power shared by both. For Luna and her sister, it’s to tear holes though dimensions, for yours, it’s to both restore, or destroy life.”

“Hold on, I could in theory wipe out a planet, and turn around and heal it all over again? That doesn’t sound right.”

God whacked the back of my head. “Not like that dummy. When Oblivion’s true power becomes unlocked… it creates a hole, a hole that whatever falls in, or is sent there in any way, vanishes from existence, as well as all its reflections. Oathkeeper, can bring something out of that place, but just one of them. None of their past wielders have gotten close to that like you have recently.”

“First, why tell me this? Second, what was the second thing you wanted to tell me? And Third, again, why now, during my lovely date?”

“First; because you can unlock it and gain an advantage over Core. Second; it involves who you must bring out of Void. and third… is because Core is no longer going to hold back.”

“....Great. I have yet to beat any threat other than Nightmare moon, and even then that was Luna, and that was while on training wheels.” I sigh, holding my head. “Who do I have to bring out when I finally unlock this power?”

“You’ve already met her.”

I looked down at the green wayfinder that I now keep with me. “It’s the original Unum isn’t it.”

God nodded. “His wife was killed in a time where death by heartless was being sent to a place known as Void. The place where everything, even nothingness will go when they die, and it is where everything was first born from. After the world broke apart during Core’s war against the X-blade’s second wielder, he searched the newly made reflections, all of them til he found one that somehow existed. That is the Unum you know, but the Unum Core cares for was different in many ways.”

“Makes sense. That's how Multiverses work. There can be nearly everything the exact same, but there is always one detail that is different.”

“Exactly.”

“So, no pressure. I have to somehow take a mark of mastery, Unlock the true power of my keyblades, and bring someone who’s been dead of eions back to calm down big bad. And you couldn't have waited until after my date….I really have to learn that I don’t get a true break.”

“Relax, Core is still planning his moves, so there is time for rest, but it’s best you tell that Justin what I told you, and have him inform Zeke. I know that kid is planning something and I think it could work, but it will be risky.”

“Whatever it is, he’ll have my support. So, anything else, or can I get back to my date?” I said.

‘You can, but here’s a gift before I leave.” To my and Luna’s shock, he placed a rather large box of condoms on the table. “I know what you both were thinking.” WIth that, he vanished into thin air.

“......You know, for a god, he really is immature.”

“Yes… but, he wasn't wrong.” Luna said, making my jaw drop. “Wanna see how many we can go though after dinner?”

Now it was my turn to stutter….damn it I thought I broke that habit. “S-sure, Why-Why not?”

“Good, when dinner is done I shall teleport us to my bed chambers… I knew I had a waterbed put in for a reason~”

Oh my….god, one of these days I will hit you followed by giving you the biggest hug ever.

Killing Mood

View Online

When I woke up I got to get the best view in this world...Luna asleep next to me. Knowing I have training today I kiss her forehead before sliding out of bed. I bumped into a now empty box of condoms on my way to the balcony. “Sweet dreams, amica mea.” I said before summoning my Keyblade glider and flying back to Ponyville. I always loved flying like this. Too bad it was short lived due to the speed of my glider but in my mind it was better than nothing.

I landed, killed about ten soldier heartless and trotted over to the training ground. I had to get stronger, if not to stop Core at least protect those I care for. I summoned Oblivion and Oathkeeper to my side. I would protect...even if I have to kill to do so. I walked up to see the rest of the girls plus Soarin and Spike have already arrived. “Hey everyone. Am I late?” I asked walking towards everyone.

“You’re just in time.” Justin said. “We received your modified armors, as well as our new book of spells.”

“Really? That’s good. So, what spells are we learning? Oh also Justin, I need you to tell Zeke something after training is over.”

“That’s actually something this lesson will cover. In our new spellbook, there was the spell for summoning the modified DTL, able to take you to other worlds fast, as well as other reflections. Today, we are traveling to other worlds.”

“Oh good. Which do you think we should go to first? Destiny Island, Olympus Coliseum, which one?”

“This is our first mission as a team, as the overseer of this mission, I will only give aid when it’s needed most. Today, our objective is to capture the witch Maleficent, in the Hollow Bastion ruins.”

“That’s it?” Maleficent...really? I took her down first try in the games. At least we are not fighting this reflection’s Sethoroth I guess.

“We are to capture her alive. The council believes her to have information regarding Core, as such a warrant for the capture of all reflections of her has been issued. Even if this one knows nothing, she has a list of crimes that will place her in chains for either a long time, or her head might roll.”

“So, Hollow Bastion, Defeat, not kill, and then report in?”

“She will be interrogated, prosecuted, and if the council decides it, executed.” Justin’s words sent shivers down everyone's spines.

“E-executed? O-oh m-my…” Futtershy said.

“Don’t worry too much. If they decide to do THAT I have full confidence that it will be because of something huge, not anything petty.” I said, trying to reassure them. “So...You all ready for our first real mission Team Harmony?” They nodded and I turned to Justin. “So, how do we open these DTL’s?”

He hands over the spellbook, as well as opens a crate that he somehow was hiding behind him, revealing the Keyblade armor sleeves. “These are prototypes, so be careful.”

I reach in and put a black and white one on. “I’ll try it first. If it doesn’t work I don't want any of you getting hurt.” I said before pushing the button. A flash of light later I stood in what looked like a pony version of Terra’s armor, only black and white with a gray trim. “Seems to be working so far.”

“It’s not the transformation that’s the issue, it’s the design. The spell matrix was built for human and human like, this is the first pony adapted models, and griffon, we don’t know if all the spells will hold up under combat.”

“Well, only one way to find out. Justin, fling a spell or hit me, right now.” I said, making my stance wide open.

Justin swung, and I was sent flying several feet. “Huh, what happened to you? That should have sent you into the Everfree.”

“Lets just say, I fought Rebecca and lasted more than one hit.”

His eyes widened. “Wow, you lasted that long against her? I’m out in ten.”

“Well then. Here I was beating myself up over lasting only about seven before she used my own power against me.”

“Ha, yeah that’s her special move. Well, with that out of the way, Let’s see about Maleficent.” He flicked his hand up and a DTL opened up. We walked through it, and were in the library from Kingdom Hearts one. “This should give us an element of surprise.”

“Yeah. And Twilight….calm down….you can take one on our way out deal?” I said to a drooling Twilight who quickly recovered and nodded.

“Alright then, Rainbow, Applejack, Eclipse, Soarin, and Gilda will be ahead attacking up front with the which, Rarity, Spike, Trixie, Twilight, you spellcast from a distance, and Fluttershy, you heal whoever goes down.”

“And Pinkie!” I said, turning and pointing a hoof at a stern faced mare with a keyblade. “Party.” She grinned at me before pumping her hoof.

“Yes!”

We went through the secret entrance to the place Sora first fought Maleficent and as we walked a sense of dread crept into us. We made it to the end of the hall… then her voice spoke from behind us. “Rather rude to enter unwelcomed.” Maleficent spoke in a monotone voice.

“Yeah, well, it was hard to find the doorbell.” I said with a shrug.

She smirked. “Silver tongues get cut off when least expected child, but the darkness of Demons rests within you.”

My eye twitched and I heard Twilight say. “oh no….”

“Child? BITCH I’M EIGHTEEN! And that’s not including my mental age of forty-one! Oh it is on!” I said summoning both of my Keyblades.

She merely smiled. “Oh, Alpha.” A DTD opened behind her, as a blond haired woman walked out, she looked about seventeen, with blue eyes wearing combat armor with two swords walked out. “Where is the Alpha?” She demanded.

“Josh is busy.” She said. “Names Kristy, and I can hold my own.”

“Fine, just be rid of these pests.” Maleficent said, vanishing into the DTD before it closed.

The girl, Kristy, looked at us. “I love my job.” She stated, hold both swords in a battle stance.

“I got her, You guys go after Maleficent.” I said to the rest of the team.

“Awe, it’s just the runt for now?” She complained. “Uncle Josh doesn’t pay me enough to deal with small fry.”

“Heh. That’s what dad said huh? Well, hate to break it to you cuz, but this runt just became a Alpha of it’s OWN pack.” I retorted as the rest listened to me.

“Dad…?” She noticed my branding. “Oh… OH Ho HO! You’re the long lost mutt of the family!”

“Yeah well, What are you going to do? You can’t pick blood. Well, you can, but only the one that covers you, not in you.” I said, my Darkness having found new prey.

“Well then, time to kill.” She got on all fours, and exploded in a wave of darkness. It make me a little sick honestly. She was swallowed by it, and when she came out, she was like a werewolf, but with a Heartless emblem on her forehead. “Time to hunt!” She charged forward. Sideswiping at me with her new claws.

I simply raised one keyblade to block it, now that Twilight and the rest are gone, I not worried about holding back at all. Claw met blade and a blast from the impact shook the room.

She kept applying pressure, making holding her off a tad bit difficult. She chomped on Oathkeeper, and she broke some teeth. The pain from it caused her to jump back. “Damn those are strong weapons.”

“A Keyblade is only as strong as the heart of it’s wielder, and the hearts it is connected to.” I said emotionless. “Also, was that your best? You didn’t even make me use Reflect.”

She chuckled. “Even so, I did some damage.” I was confused, til I looked at Oathkeeper’s blade… there was a bend in it. “Heh, could have done better.”

Oblivion practically howled in my hand as my eyes turned from their green blue to my human natural red. “You shouldn’t have hurt Oblivion’s sister.” is all I said before I charged full force at her.

I swung fast and without much care, this was a fight to the death, and I had to win. I managed to notice something odd though, when I swiped near her stomach, she looked frightened for a second.

Deciding to push this, I decided to make life….difficult for her “Stopga.” I said when she was in mid swing, exposing her stomach.

I took many swings. When she unfroze, there was a massive gash in her stomach, and she hurled over coughing blood. “N-n-no… NONONONONONO!” What looked like her intestines fell out, blood covering them and the floor… then I saw something I know will haunt me forever… it was a fetus. “My… my baby…”

Now, Don’t judge me now for my actions then. I was practically insane and with Oblivion shouting for her blood...I wasn’t thinking straight. But I just looked at her and her now dead child. “First mistake. You dared to hunt alone. Second mistake, You took on that opponent that far outclassed you. Third mistake, You harmed what I consider my family...and finally, You were apparent on your fear, letting me know where to strike. Your child's life is on your head. Think of that now in your final moments.” I said without emotion.

She merely chuckled. “Heh… then why is their blood on your sword?” She asked, falling over as her body turned to ash, disintegrating til she was nothing more than blood soaked ashes.

I swung Oblivion to the side, flicking the blood off of him as I suddenly clutch my chest. My blood boiled as my breath became labored. I let out a low chuckle. “Finally, I get to have some FUN!”

Oathkeeper and Oblivion floated out of my hoofs and before I could do anything, they transformed into chains and wrapped around me, binding me to a pillar as I kicked and screamed, wanting nothing more than to taste blood. I kept like that until I passed out, feeling something hit my head before everything went black.

I opened my eyes to find myself back in my station of awakening. “Oath! Oblivion!” I was meet with silence. “Come on guys, what is going on!”

”Felt amazing, right?” I turned around, seeing werewolf pony version of me… with black whites in it’s eyes, and red pupils. ”No tastier blood than that of your kin.”

“Who the hell are you!” I shouted, instinctively trying to summon both of my Keyblades….for none to show up.

”Your darkness, your sins, your guilt, sadness, I am the you you try to hide and bury deep within. I finally get to have my way, my FUN! And those two Keyblades of yours had to ruin it.”

“Good, I don't want Luna to see that ugly mug.” I retorted, feeling defenceless but keeping a poker face.

”I am your fears, you can’t hide that from yourself. Even so, you finally killed… best part, I had nothing to do with it. Well, I whispered it to you, but you finally listened! Oh the joy of that victory, if only papa was here to see it.”

“What I don’t get is why now. My darkness has been like a friend, not a monster.”

”I believe good o’l dad explained it, same with Zeke… the Killing Mood. It finally made me realize just how much fun it is being a demon! Screw these sheep brother, join me, and we can feast on their flesh like the wolves we are.”

“Want to know the worst part of this? Apparently even I don't understand. I don’t think Darkness and Light should fight. Never have. So why start now? Sorry, but I won’t join you and put my true family at risk.”

”You really care about that purple bitch you call sister? You don’t belong with them, you genetically aren’t even the same species! We can be what our bloodline has killed to achieve! Demons, wolves, We will become hellhounds. No beast more savage, nor loyal to blood will ever exist!”

“First things first...and I thought you listened to dad.” I said dashing forwards and gut checking what I’m just going to nickname Wolf. “Stop talking so much. Second,” I jump back. “Colin Ventral doesn’t exist any more. I am Eclipse, I was born to the minor noble house of Sparkle. And you are a threat to my family.” I said, a white glow surrounding me.

Wolf sighed. “Then I’ll take our body by force.” Wolf charged at me, running fast and to my shock, horror, and pain, bit my face with his set of razor sharp teeth. When he jumped back, there was chunks of my skin, blood, and what I guessed was eye liquid on his chin. ”I don’t want a ruined body now.” He mocked, attacking with more bites all over my body.

I cast gravity, my unicorn magic allowing my spells at least as I point at Wolf. “FIRAGA!” I shouted….and watching the massive fire ball barely graze Wolf….damn...without my other eye I have no depth perception...

”If it makes you feel better,” Wolf spoke in a mock tone. He lifted a claw up to his right eye, and gouged it out without even flinching. ”Now we’re even.” He said, attacking again, the loss of his eye not seeming to have affected him at all.

I was disgusted and I couldn’t even move, for two reasons. First I was sick to the stomach. Second, I was afraid of walking and falling on my face right now. “Now that’s fucked up.” I said to his self mutilation.

I had gash marks all over my body. My Station of Awakening was almost covered in my own blood at this point. I was barely standing. ”We both know you are weak, this was proven time and time again, once I kill you, that weakness will no longer plague this heart.”

“What one calls weakness, I call caring.” I said, picking myself up from a kneeled position.

”All that...light… you say it and darkness can co-exist. You’re wrong. Light created darkness. It fell into it’s own creation. We are all that light is, but twisted, savage as the light glows ever brighter, because that’s what a shadow does. Well no more struggling, no more hiding from the light! Darkness will have it’s day!”

“But darkness...it can’t exist without light. Light is good and all, but it is afraid to act. Darkness takes matters into its own hands, but has negative backlash. If they just worked together, there would be an end to all this fighting!”

”Yes there will be, but it will be the sins of we darkness born beings that will win it!” He charged in for an attack, and I was ready to take it… until in a flash, Oathkeeper appeared. ”Damned blade!”

Sorry, but I can’t have something as pathetic as you ruining what Oblivion and I worked so hard and got so close to achieving.. Oathkeeper said as I felt her float into my grip

”I’ll snap you in half!” Wolf yelled, biting at Oathkeeper’s bent area… And it bent some more.

GOD DAMN IT! NOW ECLIPSE! She yelled as she forced her tip into Wolf’s mouth. I quickly sliced through, cutting Wolf’s lower jaw clean off as it fell to the floor.

Wolf jumped back, a new jaw quickly growing in, in a rather graphic fashion, and he smiled. ”Two can play with Keyblades brother.” In a large pulsating aura of darkness, Oblivion appeared in Wolf’s mouth, but it was white. ”Even a Keyblade can fall into darkness.”

Brother?! What the hell is going on? no response. Answer me Oblivion! Come on...Brother! She cried.

Wolf laughed. ”Oblivion may fall into the category of a Keyblade of Light, it still draws power from darkness… from me. I just… removed it’s free will, makes things so much easier.”

YOU FUCKEN MONSTER! She yelled.

”Thank you, I try.” Wolf charged in for an attack, and I had no choice but to block. The impact sent a shockwave across the Station of Awakening, all my spilled blood flowing off the sides with the energy.

I used my free hoof to try and rip Oblivion out of Wolf’s mouth, thinking that getting him away from Wolf would make him think again. My mistake.

Wolf bit my hoof as I tried, and then did something unexpected… he dropped Oblivion. ”Now, where has this been played out before… oh yeah… Birth by Sleep, Ventus vs Vanitas at their Station of Awakening.”

“Yeah...It resulted in their heart being shattered. Another reason I don’t want to fight, but you force my hoof this entire time. Don’t you see, light and darkness MUST co-exist, but they chose to hate each other! We can stop this! Please stop fighting, let's both be in control, and we can be more powerful than alone.”

“Ha, this coming from the guy who makes up less than ten percent of this heart. I’m already winning, and once the last of you is gone… oh then that bitch you call a sister, those two pretenders you call parent’s, that show off you call a brother… I will leave just enough of you alive so you can watch us end them where they stand.’

“And Luna?” I asked, stalling for time.

“I need a bitch to breed after all.”

It was my turn to grin. “Then you’re no Ventral. If there is one thing Zeke has taught me, they care about relationships...and love. So you are not me, you are just a wantabe.”

”Shut. Your. Mouth. Light isn’t the only thing that can love… I just need to… persuade her to become the sexy demon she was when we first met.”

I shook my head. “You still don't get it...I never said that Darkness couldn’t feel, just that she would never change the way you’re thinking.” I looked at him and prayed that what I was about to do worked.

”Heh… Do you even know why Light and Darkness fight in the first place?”

“No, but it doesn’t matter. Light and Dark are siblings…..they shouldn’t ever fight.”

”Darkness is the offspring of Light… we grew, wanted to see just what life outside us was like… and you feared us… That has never changed. So, we became the monsters you called us, and we know no other way… save for the traitor darkness of Zeke... “

“I never feared you...hell I loved that you kept me from being naive and blind. You were my guardian...and now...now you being like this...it hurts….I don’t want to fight you.”

”We fight, we’ve been at war since darkness was conceived. But can you say for certain, without a moment of hesitation… that Light isn’t the one in the wrong?”

“No, because both are wrong.” I said without missing a beat. Just a little longer...I don't want to do this...but he forced me...if he doesn't listen I’ll have to do this.

He sighed. ”True, a war over misunderstanding, and the unknown… wasn’t that the core issue with humanity on earth?”

“Yeah, only we never participated in any of that. Hell, it was at our door step for god’s sake.”

”Didn’t we? How many of mom’s ‘visitors’ beat her and we did nothing, how many people did we see being harmed, yet we only watched? How many?”

“......Too many.” I said, lowering my blade, but not dropping it like him.

He grabbed Oblivion, and took off the Keychain, holding it up for me to see. ”From what the darkness in that bullet dad shot us with told me… Light was nothing before darkness came along. Darkness created mutations, evolution, chaos… emotions… When light tried to take over our natural role, that’s when war finally broke out. I choose the side I was made from, because I stick to family… Maybe someday you… no, you already have… you stick to those that you named family, and they accepted you…”

“Yes...now we both see….can there ever be peace between us ever again? No war, no balance...just peace?”

“That, is nothing more than a pipe dream. For you see, when they say darkness consumes… they’re wrong. It’s light that tried to consume us, make darkness like it… we appear to consume because we only want to take back what light stole from us.”

“Don’t you see...I agree, but there has to be a better way. Come on brother,” I hold out a hoof “Let’s start something new.”

He sighed once more. ”You may agree, you might even understand… but that’s what they call, the one percent majority.” To my shock, he placed Oblivion’s Keychain on his tongue, and swallowed it.

“Why did you do that?”

YOU MOTHER FU- I took off her keychain before she could continue.

”I only took back what light stole.” He summoned Oblivion, but it’s Keychain was missing. ”Consume from the light… take back what was once ours…”

“Oblivion is Oathkeeper’s brother, her twin...they are black and white, light and dark, yet they were meant to be TOGETHER. Please….Please reconsider brother. Let us be the start of something amazing.”

”... One day, but not in our lifetime.” He struck Oblivion into the floor, and the whole room cracked as a tear in the floor split the ground in two.

“For what it’s worth...I’m sorry.” I said before letting my heart call out into the abyss. Suddenly the cracks stopped, appearing to go in reverse as several platforms started to appear in the distance, bridges to them appearing and linking with our current Station. “Rule number one brother….never be alone….”

”That’s the funny part about darkness…” Wolf just sat there as countless stations appeared behind him, all being linked into one interchanging bridge. ”We aren’t alone.”

“No...I guess we aren't.” I said, smiling. “We have to postpone this fight now that others are arriving….but I do love you...even if I have a hard time showing it.”

”... same, but know this… what I’ve just done has severed the lock keeping us linked, all it will take is one more cut, and I can roam free without you, or our body.”

“Well then….let’s both hope that never happens….I’d hate being alone in my heart.”

”You can hope it doesn’t… I look forward to it.”

We just nod to each other, understanding each other after what felt like ten years of fighting. “Until next time brother.” I said as we both started to glow white and black respectively.

Mega Adventure

View Online

Morning rose over Daybreak, and all the guests began to awake. They all were still tired from the other day’s adventure, so everyone was going to relax for the day before anything else happened. Huxley was up rather early, searching for the kitchen or a dining room. As he found said dining room he came across a woman and Unum. “Hello, Unum who’s the woman?” Huxley asked

The woman in question merely looked at Huxley with a death glare. “I’m wearing the same clothes and you don’t recognize me?” She asked.

“Zeke?” Huxley said.

She merely hung her head. “Was the last thing in that accursed book of Rune’s…” Zeke muttered.

“Well we now have a last ditch plan to seduce Core if all else fails.”

Huxley suddenly had the tips of multiple Keyblades pointed at him all over his body. “One. More. Word.” Zeke threatened.

“Okay fine I was joking anyway.”

The next to enter were the five Foretellers, who weren’t wearing their robes. The moment Alex saw ‘Zeke,’ He zipped to ‘his’ side and lean on the wall.

“Well hellloooo there. What’s your name?” He said.

Huxley opened his mouth, but decided to let the scene play out for his own amusement. To his surprise, Zeke gave him a flurty look. “Shanna, you knew in town?” Zeke spoke with a false name… and tone of voice while somehow being flurty.

“The names Alex babe. I lead the Leopardus Union. And I got to say you look… you look…. Where have I seen those clothes before?”

Zeke just broke into a small fit of laughter. “Well that was fun. Sup Alex?” ‘he’ said as Huxley just fell down laughing

“Z-Z…” instead of saying anything, Alex hung his head and slowly walked out of the room. Which was then filled with laughter from his friends.

“Ahahaha! Oh, that's great!” Jenny said. “By the way, what up with all that?”

“I owed Unum… Not gonna lie, best sex ever.” Zeke admitted.

“Well I’m going to miss Zeke, but Shanna’s fun.” Huxley said.

“I’m gonna change back… at the end of the day…” Zeke admitted.

“Spell lasts a while.” Unum clarified.

Lan placed a hand on ‘Shanna’s’ shoulder. “I know you can pull through… Shaunna.” He said with a smirk.

“Unless we’re in hiding, please call me Zeke.” Zeke said.

“No Shanna’s fine.” Huxley said as Keyblades surrounded him again. “Okay Zeke it is.”

Everyone took a seat and soon large trays of various breakfast foods were brought out and placed on the table.

“So... Is there an arena here?” Huxley asked

“Yeah, the Mirage Arena in this reflection, looked like Monstro took a bit out of it, so we salvaged what we could and made our own.” Zeke said.

“Good, after breakfast we should have a legit fight.” Huxley said.

“Sure, didn’t have much else planned other than hide from Rune today.”

“So other than the fight against you two, what is left on the itinerary?” Dan said.

“We’ll I have to bring my Twilight back something...Oh and Elzin wanted to warn you about somethings about what happened in the next few Equestria Girls movies but I don’t know what those are” Huxley said as the Foretellers looked at each other wondering how many movies he could be referring to.

Suddenly the doors open and in walks, much to the surprise of the Foretellers and Huxley, a actual pony with a scar over his right eye which is shut tight. “So you all are eating without me?”

“Did anyone order small talking horse for breakfast?” Huxley asked as Kira walked over and slapped Huxley.

Zeke shot up. “How are you awake already?” He walked over and hugged Eclipse. “Good to see you’re up cousin.”

“So Rune finally convinced you eh? And please don't hug too hard!” Eclipse said with a wince.

“I owed Unum…” Zeke let go of his cousin. “So, care to eat?”

“Okay quick question how are you related to a horse?” Huxley asked

“God.” They both said nonchalantly.

“Okay that need more clarifying.” Huxley said as Zeke cut in

“Josh is Eclipse’s dad on earth. God took him seriously when he asked for a fresh start, and he was reborn as Twilight’s twin in his reflection.” Zeke explained.

“Great I’m going to introduce him to my Twilight just to mess with her” Huxley said walking over and picking up Eclipse.

“No, I have problems refraining from calling my cousin’s wife sister. I am not going to your world to fuck with both of our heads!” He said teleporting to a empty seat.

“Hey that was my seat.” Huxley said there were Keyblades pointed at him again. “Fine, I’ll pick another one.”

The two took a seat, and the meal continued.

In an instant, Kira had appeared next to Eclipse with stars in her eyes.

“Hah~ Go ahead.” Eclipse said. Kira then started petting his mane. To her surprise, Zeke’s reflection Dinky walked up and joined her.

“How old are you anyway?” Huxley asked.

“Physically or mentally? Remember I was reborn.” Eclipse says with a shrug, secretly enjoying the pets.

“Mentally.”

“Let's see here….I was twenty-three and now I’m eighteen… I’m mentally forty one.”

“Kind of hard to believe that when you’re a miniature horse.” Alex said. “Then again, must help lure the kids out of school.”

Alex had a Keyblade hovered over him and dropped right on top of him manhood, to which he winced in pain as he fall off his chair. The meal continued rather normally, and everyone went about normally, and quiet. Afterwards, the groups left to each do something for themselves on their free day.

“So where is a gift shop? I have to get Twilight a gift.” Huxley said looking at a map of the City. “Okay there's the shopping district maybe I could buy Twilight a book?” Huxley said as he went off to the shopping district.

Eclipse stood on a balcony looking out over the empire, only Oathkeeper beside him. “Damn it...I don’t even understand my own dream….” He turned and walked back inside, heading to the room he woke up in.

Zeke felt… oddly accustomed to being female fast. He expected the whole experience to be rather embarrassing and scaring, yet he felt not much different than if he were male. Save for the long hair, and breasts. “So, why am I here again?” Zeke asks as his wives all exit the closet, each holding various clothes.

“Gotta see what you look like all dolled up.” Rarity said. “This is just too good an opportunity to pass love.”

Zeke sighed. “Fine, let’s just hope this doesn’t become a habit.”

“This looks fine.” Huxley said skimming the book. “I wish Twilight was here so she could tell me what boo- Is that what i think it is?” Huxley said, heading into the kids section. “The Kingdom Hearts Manga?” Huxley asked. “Well this is too good to pass up.” He said, picking up all four issues of it.

“Can I help you with something sir?” A clerk asked.

“Yeah I need to find a book for a friend and I saw that this was the favorite book store of Twilight Sparkle, or whatever, she’s going by now and wanted to know if there were any books she would recommend?” Huxley asked

“Well there is the this book on the worlds that she wrote I would recommend that for your friend.” The clerk said as Huxley grabbed the book.

“Sweet.” Huxley said as he made his way to the check out.

Eclipse sat down on his bed, Oathkeeper across the room from him as he holds his head with his front legs. “What did I do…..fuck….nonono….. God no….” He lays down sideways and lets himself cry softly while the time goes by.

Don’t blame yourself Eclipse...You were defending me and Oblivion...he is so over protective that some of it spilled onto you...Her life wasn’t your fault. Oathkeeper spoke to Eclipse.

Eclipse wiped his eye before looking at her. “First off, it is. I could have tried to knock her out, or captured her, hell I could have done anything! But I tried and succeeded in killing her! And second, why can I hear you? I’m not in a Deep Dive.”

Well, to answer the second I only can guess it is because I am connected to your light...and right now your darkness is a hair away from being split from you. Thus my heart is most likely being used as a bandage as it were, connecting us closer than before. Oathkeeper sighed before continuing. And the first is wrong. Yes you could have acted differently, but it was in the moment. No one would be thinking clearly in that kind of situation.

“I killed not only a person, someone that as much as I didn’t know was family, but a unborn child as well! And you expect me to just accept that as okay?! I almost wish I had given into other me just so I wouldn't have to feel this, this guilt!” Eclipse yelled before going quiet. “Please...just leave me alone right now….”

Oathkeeper sighed before going quiet, the slight glow from the sunlight streaming in fading away as Eclipse continued to cry.

Zeke was halfway through the clothing when Unum pulled out a dress. “No I’m not wearing that.” Zeke said sternly.

“But it looks adorable” Twilight said.

“I don’t care if it helps me beat Core I’m not wearing that.” Zeke said.

“Fine lets try this.” Rune said pulling out a skimpy dress.

“What, you want me to dress like the queen of mars?” Zeke frowns.

“Role play.” Luna teases.

“... Rune, you have twisted them.”

“Yes I have!” Rune admits cheerfully.

“What the fuck has Zeke been doing?” Ben mutters to himself, having taken a small walk through town as he saw monsters, humans, and assort of other beings in this massive sprawling city as he started heading to the castle. “I mean seriously...a Goat woman standing in front of a school...a skeleton sleeping in the middle of the road….and I am so thankful to run from that one weird skeleton…” Ben shudders, wondering why that one skeleton kept screaming ‘Wait for me human!’. “And why the fuck did he sound like Skeletor!?” He mutter yelled as he continued his walk to the castle. “I hope I can talk to him and figure out this madness…”

Just as he got to the castle, he was run into by a woman in, oddly familiar clothing… and she fell ontop of him. “Wha- Shit!” She said, jumping off. “Sorry Ben.” She said.

“Uh…” Ben mutters before getting up and seeing this new woman. “Um...I’ve watched too much anime and I’m sorry for doing this but I need to make sure Zeke.” Ben says before stepping over and gently poking Zeke’s breast.

Zeke blushed, slapping Ben. “What the heck?!”

“Okay thank you.” Ben says honestly, rubbing his cheek. “I’m sorry Zeke, I just needed to make sure. So explaination now?”

“Long story short, Unum can’t be more than a mile from me, or she goes into pain, and with our traveling into other dimensions and she found me, I owed her… and payed by doing a lot fetish that was in Rune’s book…”

“I know at least three that no one would ever do which is so sad...I blame my friends for even telling me that…” Ben grumbles. “But hey at least you’re alive, have all your limbs, and don’t smell like Unum’s stomach.” He says, naming off the three fetishes that they didn’t know.

“Either way, I’m just gonna look forward to when the spell wears off and I change back.” Zeke said as he got up. “So, what have you been up to?”

“Oh just taking a stroll around town, seeing a ton of people, running away from an Earthbound fan that sounds like Skeletor.” Ben shrugs. “Seriously this place needs a lot of explanation….I’m so confused right now.”

“Everyone here is either a survivor from a fallen world, or is part of a world that has joined the Unity… I know that sounds kinda like a cult thing, but no, it’s a step towards all the worlds and reflections interacting again.”

“Cause you know, fuck the rules and let’s start trying to make multiverse theory null and void.” Ben says with a shrug. “But I have a feeling there’s a council thing going on…”

“Yeah, I’m a member along with one or two people to represent each world that’s joined.”

“Why do I have a feeling that I’m going to join in on your council?” Ben asks curiously.

“Only if you want to fill out the paperwork.”

“Listen I’m going to have to help Luna with her damned paperwork anyways cause she’ll force me into it anyways.” Ben starts. “I won’t like it but if it helps us all stand together and be even stronger then that’s fine by me. Oh...also I think Core has learned how to shape shift…” He mentions.

“Shit. Where do you think he learned that?”

“No idea. But if you want I’ll tell you and your council what he told me as he pretended to be God. Just to give you a heads up.” He explains.

“Sure, next meeting is a while though. If you want to inform security, talk to either Leon, Cid, or Lord Death.”

“Wait what about Lord Death?” Ben asks curiously. “Like….the one from Soul Eater? That Lord Death? Silly mask, silly sounding voice and is a fun guy to be with?”

“Yeah, he was X’s second wielder.”

Zeke could obviously tell Ben was trying his hardest not to look excited at hearing that. “Well that’s an explanation I’ll need to hear.”

“Long story… the only thing we agree is that his son and one of my daughters are dating… OCD little bastard.”

“Yeah Kid is a great bit OCD...but he’s a nice guy even if he can…get a little too dramatic over seeing something a centimeter out of place.” Ben says sheepishly, his knowledge of the anime helping him out in this situation. “But frankly, if your daughter is happy then power to them. Being protective is fine, but being overprotective is stupid.”

“You know how fucked up my family is right? The one from earth anyway.”

“And I killed one of them so yes I do know how fucked up your earth family is. But who gives a fuck you’re a happy father with sixteen wives. Let’s focus on our new lives alright? Besides,” Ben says before motioning to everything around them. “I’m pretty sure you’re the king of this place even if your apart of a council.”

“If they even try and put a crown on my head I’m bailing.” Zeke says with a chuckle.

“What do you think I did when I got a crown?” Ben asks before pointing to his silver crown.

“Cosplayed as Sora?”

“For some reason the thing won’t stay upright and tilt like it was on Sora’s head but now. I took it and placed it on my head thinking ‘wow I got a crown’. And I’m dating Luna. Sometimes, having a crown just means ‘I have fancy headwear’ not ‘I am king of everything, bow before me!’.” Ben says in a mock impression of a king, which was poor at best.

Zeke just laughed. “To each their own. So… wanna try and have that Twilight Thorn vs Darkside? Then try and bring back more people?”

“I’m pretty sure we have to advertise first cause that fight might scare a lot of people and also make a lot of people see a glorious battle that it’s not even funny.” Ben says. “I’d rather advertise it first just so guards don’t appear and ruin our fun.”

“Well, yeah. We’ll tell Leon and Shining Armor later.”

“Right then.” Ben nods. “Let’s hope they don’t mind giant monster fights...but their guys so they would understand how awesome it is.”

“Yes.” Zeke said as the two shook on it.

“So...time and place...cause both are necessary.” Ben says, wanting to hammer that out before they just summon giant monsters to fight.

“Huh… Ten PM, moon. Seems safest place.”

“Sounds about right.” Ben nods. “We need commentators to help explain the spectacle. I mean Pinkie is fine and all but we need more than just Pinkie to commentate the grand scale of things.”

“Fair enough.” Zeke nods, before the two of them head off to find the right commentator.

“I have the feeling that Zeke’s putting me off.” Huxley said as he returned to his room

“Huxley have you seen Zeke? We need him to wear this dress.” Luna said holding up a ‘dress’.

“No I haven't and is that a dress?” Huxley asked looking at the ‘dress’ that was just two golden bits for the chest and a piece of fabric covering the private area. “I’m pretty sure that's not a dress.” Huxley said as Luna’s ears dropped

“Don’t make me put YOU in this dress.” she said.

“How? That doesn’t even fit me?” Huxley asked.

“Gender change spell.” She said flatly.

“Oh right.” Huxley said nonchalantly. “Anyway I’m actually looking for Zeke myself. He may have forgotten our fight.”

“Oh well if you find him tell him that we’re looking for him.” Luna said as the fifteen of his wives just walked down the hallway.

“Okay then.” Huxley said confused before heading out to immediately find Zeke hiding underneath a park bench. “Hiding from the wives?” Huxley asked

“You have to have seen what they’re trying to get me to wear.” Zeke deadpanned as he gets up. “Sorry I delayed the fight, been hiding and looking for a commentator for… reasons.”

“Giant Monster fight?” Huxley asked to Zeke’s surprise.

“Yeah, good guess.”

“Ben ran up to me and said Giant monster fight.” Huxley said

“Oh yeah. Well, I got time and the wives don’t seem to be here, so to the arena?” Zeke asks, brushing some hair aside. “How do women stand hair this long?”

“I don’t know.” Huxley said as they went to the Arena.

Eclipse wandered the castle, memorising every pathway, trying to do anything to ignore the screaming in his head shouting ‘Murderer! Child killer! Die in a hole!’ “Shut up!” He yelled randomly, startling some passerbys. “Sorry.” He said as they hurried away. Eclipse sighed and continued his self guided tour. “Only the restricted places are not memorised now….”

“Who want’s to see a giant monster fight!?” Eclipse heard a familiar voice call out to the public.

“Giant monsters? Inner geek...calm down…..don't just take off. It may just be nothing….but it could be cool…..fuck it I’m going.” Eclipse said after a short internal argument.

“Oh, hey Eclipse.” Ben says with a little wave to the pony. “Heard me talk about giant monsters fighting?” He asks. “Also how are you doing today?”

“I’m shit, thanks for asking. And I think ponies in MY reflection heard you with how loud you were.” Eclipse stated bluntly.

“I’m not that loud, sorry to hear that your shit but still glad to see you.” Ben says. “Anyways giant monsters are going to fight, want to know what giant monsters are going to fight? And sadly no Godzilla isn’t here.”

Eclipse sighed. “Fine, which ones are fighting?”

“Twilight Thorn vs. Darkside.” Ben says with a smile.

Eclipse’s eye went wide “You have gotta be shitting me.”

“Nope.” Ben says with a smile. “I can summon Nobodies, and I think I’ve got it down enough to summon the thing...I wonder when I can summon a giant dragon next?” Ben wonders to himself happily.

“My god. Okay inner geek, you win this round. Where and when!” Eclipse said excited.

“Ten PM on the Moon. So sadly no giant monsters in the middle of a city but that’s fine enough.” Ben says with a shrug. “And I’m pretty sure there will be some fancy magical crap going on so it’ll all happen. Let’s hope Luna won’t mind a new crater or two appearing there.”

“If this one is anything like mine, she will get over it…...eventually……”

“Well I’m pretty sure they’ll figure it out sooner rather than later.” Ben shrugs.

“So, what has been happening other than the monster fight being planned while I was out?” Eclipse asked, temporarily forgetting his problems.

“So. Much. Shit.” Ben says in a simple, yet slightly exhausted voice. “Like holy hell, so much shit to explain. But long story short, became a master, have a now fully alive heart instead of a partly dead one, finally got masters to help me with my weapon training, my reflections Terra is dating Aqua, and so much other shit that it’s just…” Ben explained rubbed the back of his head.

“Wow, thats alot. I found out who my father was from earth, found out I’m Zeke’s cuz, got a armor upgrade and recently went temporarily insane.” Eclipse said in response.

“Huh...didn’t know. Also...I’m trying not to go insane as well from killing someone...it was a Ventral that probably was the most caring but…” Ben sighs out, not wanting to go down this road.

“They were people….crazy murderous people but still….it's going to take a while to get over…”

“I’m sorry for bringing it up.” Ben says honestly. “But to change the topic...who do you think will win?”

“Honestly? I think it will be close, but my munny’s on Twilight Thorn.” Eclipse says. “Darksiders are more common than a Twilight Thorn and so their strategies are known. Also, Heartless rely on instinct, while Nobodies can strategize. Then you add speed and I think Thorn will win.” Eclipse says, seemingly coming up with this outcome right then and there.

“Makes sense, but as far as I know Darksides rely more on strength than speed so if the thing could get it’s hands on the Twilight Thorn then things might not end well for it.” Ben explains his point.

“Which is more important in a fight, the power of the blow, or the first one to land a blow? If you get the first strike, your enemy is playing catch up from there on out.”

“While that is true sometimes it’s not always true.” Ben says. “You could be fast and smack a strong opponent five times before they could even blink, but if it does about as much as a toothpick does to a brick wall then it hasn’t done much.” Ben shrugs.

“That brings up another thing, do you need someone to tell how much health each one has?” Eclipse asks.

“Actually now that you say that...none of us has Scan.” Ben frowns. “I mean we could normally tell because of battle damage that’s on the surface but...by that standpoint we have no way to tell how much health something has.”

“Well then, I guess I should say that God gave me the Scan ability huh?” Eclipse smirks.

“Ya know…” Ben starts. “What would happen if God forgot to tell us we can open a menu and then check our stats, equipment, and skills? Cause I’m feeling like that’s a little something we should have...cause battle experience alone is great but sometimes it can’t hurt to double check with a little magical screen telling us what we have and what skills we have.”

Eclipse shrugs. “Because this is reality and not a game? I don't even know how I can tell enemy hp...I just know.”

“Try focusing and say ‘Scan’ like you're casting a spell.” Ben suggests. “I suppose I’ll be the guinea pig here.”

Eclipse nods and focus his eyes on Ben, focusing in everything including body language. “Scan!” Eclipse says as his eyes emit a faint glow. “Wow….that worked? I'm surprised it did.”

“How much health do I have?” Ben asks. “Do you notice any weaknesses? Strengths? What?”

“Well, you have about as many bars as Sephiroth, maybe more if my memory is wrong, and other than knowing your body language and muscle movement, I can't see any the way your thinking.” Eclipse explains.

“Well at least we know it’s not like Final Fantasy to say the least.” Ben shrugs. “But I wonder if the rest of us could learn that ability sooner or later...also how the fuck do I have over 12 bars of health?” He asks curiously, finding that health amount a tad too big for someone like him.

The five Foretellers were taking a leisurely stroll through Daybreak. Taking in all of the sights that the Empire had to offer.

“Wow, this place looks pretty nice.” Dan said.

“Yeah, we didn’t get a chance to actually tour around when we were last here.” Jenny said. “It looks good for a once post-apocalyptic wasteland.” The others agreed. While touring, they started to remember what happened back in the Realm of Darkness.

“So you all remember the footage back in the lab right?” Lan asked, with the others nodding. “So what do you think?”

“It was a surprise really.” Dan said. “It was obvious that that wasn’t the same lab that they kept Crow, or even did the experiment. It was probably all imported to stage the trap.”

“Which means that Crow is in another Realm of Darkness.” Alex finished.

“Well, if worst come to worst, then we can just ask Zeke if we can look at other reflections. But we still need to narrow it down. There could hundreds of reflections.” Jenny said.

Lan agreed. “Well all we can do is work through it. For now, let’s just enjoy our down time.” With that, they continued their walk.

“Oh, hello.” Ben says while walking towards the group. “How are you all doing?” He asks, trying to strike up a friendly conversation.

“Hey Ben,” Lan greeted. “We’re just touring around. How about you?”

“Oh just walking around, telling everyone about the giant monster fight that’s taking place on the moon. Ya know, the usual.” Ben says with a smile.

“Giant Monster fight? What does that mean?”

“Twilight Thorn versus a Darkside.” Ben answers. “Me and Zeke talked about it before one time and we’re finally getting around to it.”

“Wow really!?” Alex yelled. “I want to see that! When is it?”

“Ten PM.” Ben answers again. “So who do you think will win? Speed and strategy, or Strength and Instincts?”

“I lean towards speed more.” Alex says

“Ditto” Dan agreed.

“I think strength is gonna be the winner. Their more sturdy and take more hits.” Jenny said.

“I can’t decide really.” Kira shrugged.

“I feel like they’d both be on equal ground. I guess the match will answer everything.” Lan said.

“And my answer to that is this fight will be awesome and who cares who wins cause giant monsters are fighting...too bad Godzilla won’t be apart of it though...but that would be overkill.” Ben chuckles, remembering how stupid strong that overgrown lizard was. “Anyways which Equestria do you come from?” Ben asks honestly, having a good feeling that they came from an Equestria like Zeke and Eclipse.

“Technically it’s not Equestria. We’re from the Equestria Girls Universe. It’s a bit like our world, except more peaceful.”

“Wait you mean that human thing that was gonna come out in 2013?” Ben asks curiously. “I do remember there were trailers about it, looked fine enough...but if a normal person were to go there they’d think everyone was high.” Ben frowns. “I mean seriously, humans having those personalities and color schemes? Don’t you think that’s a tad silly and weird?”

“We all got picked up by God and given Keyblades. Now fighting an ultimate evil, and you’re probably dating one of the main cast if the pattern is keeping up. Is that really the weirdest thing to ask about now?” Jenny said sarcastically.

As they were talking a voice called out to them “Hey!” the voice shouted as they turned to see Huxley out of breath.

“Huxley? Why you in a rush?” Lan asked.

“Have you seen Zeke he ran away when he saw his wives and that guy can run fast when he’s scared.” Huxley said.

“Well not that anybody else noticed, but I saw him dive into a trash can a while ago.” Dan said. “That was a couple blocks back.”

“Hopefully he’s still there, Thanks.” Huxley said running off.

“Wrong way.” Dan said as Huxley went to the other direction.

“Why did you tell him it was a few blocks away?” Kira asked. “He’s in that trash can over there.” She pointed to one near by.

“I thought it would be funny.” Dan said with a smirk. “You can come out dude.”

They saw Zeke exit the the trash can, stumbling as she walked over to them. “Thanks.” He said, exhausted.

“So when is the spell gonna wear off anyways. You can’t keep hiding from your wives for very long.” Jenny said.

“Not until around eleven or twelve.”

“Well you better keep hiding. I’m pretty sure I see Luna coming down the street.” Alex said.

“Yeah I’d better run…” Ben says worriedly.

Zeke’s response was collapsing on her knees. “You try running all day… Damn, either I’ve gone soft, or the female body is making me more tired than I’d normally get?”

“Need some help?” Ben asks, willing to lend aid to the exhausted Zeke.

“Sure.” Zeke said as Ben helped her up. “Man I don’t feel right.”

“Here. This will help.” Kira said, casting a Curaga on Zeke.

“Thanks… still got that stomach ache though… Must have been number forty on that list…”

“I don’t want to know Zeke.” Ben frowns, helping Zeke run from Luna.

“Well that was interesting.” Lan said. “Well, let’s just get back to our tour. I’m sure that Cafe Twilight told me about is around here somewhere.”

With that, they continued their day.

“Where is he?” Huxley asked outloud. ”Maybe I should go back to the foretellers and ask what street it was on?” It was at that moment, someone rammed into him.

“Sorry Huxley.” Zeke said, helping him up.

“Thanks, wait I thought you were in the dumpster?” Huxley asked confused

“Was, got out, running again… Oh, we still gotta have that fight…”

“And I’m here to help Zeke run from his wives...and I suppose I’ll be a makeshift referee for this encounter.” Ben chimes in.

“Okay if you're the ref I want to make it clear only one keyblade for Zeke.” Huxley said as Zeke looked at him.

“Makes sense.” Ben says while thinking a moment more. “Okay so this is a friendly match, no deadly blows and if either of you can’t fight anymore or I think the fight should stop before it get’s out of control I will stop you both alright?”

“Seems fair.” Zeke said, summoning Master Keeper.

“What about summoning?” Ben asks curiously. “I think that should also not be apart of this match…”

“I don’t know any summoning spells, what about you Huxley?”

“Nope, no spells...unless wayfinders count which I don’t think they do?” Huxley said

“I was meaning you can’t summon Heartless Zeke.” Ben frowns.

“Oh…” Zeke said. “Alright, I only do that for special reasons anyway.”

“Alright so we fighting here or should we disguise you to get to the arena?”

Zeke snapped her fingers, a DTL opening up. “This will take us to the arena, we can fight there fine.” She said, walking into it, followed by the others.

“Sweet.” Huxley said, walking into the DTL “This is bigger than I imagined.” Huxley said in amazement.

“Then apparently you haven’t been to a stadium before.” Ben says.

“I’ve only been to the Coliseum.” Huxley said

“Well, it’s actually just a bunch of single rooms set up like mini versions of the Mirage arena.” Zeke said.

“I wonder what would happen if we all had teams for the Mirage Arena. If memory serves those fights are actually quite challenging.” Ben says, wondering what’ll happen if they all teamed up to beat the tournaments there.

“Meh, come on, let’s go find an empty arena room.” The three walked inside and found one quickly. Zeke entered a few things in then she, Ben and Huxley entered the room. A bright light blinded them for a moment before they found themselves in the Olympus Coliseum. “Feel familiar?”

“Yeah now let’s begin.” Huxley said pulling out Key to Avalon and three wishes.

“Hey! I only get one, but you get two?”

“One out a thousand. It only seems fair.”

“Yet Zeke’s only using one as per the rules, wouldn’t it be fair if you only used one?” Ben asks.

“Fine.” Huxley said, unsummoning Three wishes. “Let’s go.” Huxley said casting “Ifrit” Huxley shouted as flames surrounded him.

Zeke held Master Keeper, waiting for Huxley to strike first. ”He’s gotten pretty strong… I wonder how strong though?” Zeke thought.

Before Zeke could react Huxley jumped out of the fire and looked different more monstrous with his keyblade acting as a tail.

“Well shit.” Zeke said, deflecting an attack. Zeke jumped into the air, throwing Master Keeper into a Reflect Raid, striking Huxley three times before he blocked the rest.

“Burn.” Huxley said as he took a deep breath and launched a fireball at Zeke.

Zeke took a blocking stance, and right before the Fireball made contact, he was surrounded in a dome of Keyblades. “Uhhh. I didn’t summon them!” She called out.

“What in the world?” Ben asks, summoning his keyblade and shield just in case he’ll need it. “Know why they were summoned?” He asks worriedly.

“Nope. I was just getting ready to block, then all these guy’s just appeared by themselves. They’ve never done that before.” Zeke admitted.

“You can let Keyblades talk through you right? Well let’s have X talk or one of them can talk…” Ben says. “Maybe it has something to do with your stomach problem and maybe your little...weakened state.” He says, not entirely sure what’s going on.

“Alright.” Zeke said, the Keyblades disbanding the dome and floating around her. She placed a hand on one. “What’s the deal?” Protect. Was all that came out from the Keyblade speaking to Zeke. “It just says protect... “

“Okay...that didn’t help. Maybe my Keyblade could tell us.” Ben says while raising his weapon up. “I hope it can talk through you...even though it’s technically me.” He says, hoping it could help tell them what’s wrong.

“You are with child.” Huxley said in a deep voice

“Wait WHAT!?!” Ben shouts, looking at Zeke suddenly, worry plastered all over his face at this sudden revelation.

“Beast sense’s. I smell a second heart within you” Huxley said.

Zeke’s face turned a deep shade of pink… before Keyblades appeared everywhere. “I”M GONNA KILL UNUM!!!” She screamed, breaking a nearby wall and it somehow leading to outside the arena.

“Holy fuck!” Ben shouts. “Uh...listen Zeke, I know this is sudden and I can understand your anger, but can you not kill her? Please?” Ben asks worriedly, starting to slowly move towards the exit so he could get out and warn Unum quickly.

Huxley quickly changed back and ran up to Zeke. “Whoa calm down buddy you’re going to hurt the baby.” Huxley said, not making things better.

Zeke’s response was every Keyblade out slashing at Huxley, rendering him unconscious before all of them even hit him.

“Oooooh fuck…” Ben says worriedly, raising his shield in worry. “Uh...Zeke? Um...want to go get something to eat? Maybe do something to distract you from….beating me or hurting Unum a lot?” He says, hoping to get something through her blind rage right now. To his shock, Zeke’s eyes changed, one glowed a bright white, and the other pulsated with darkness. “Uh...hello?” He asks, hoping that was still Zeke and not something worse.

To his further surprise, her hair turned blue. “Damn, that was close.”

“Okay what the fuck is going on?” Ben says worriedly.

“It’s me, the X-blade, I can take over Zeke’s body if needed… and she really didn’t make this take over easy.”

“Okay so how do you want to handle this sudden situation?” Ben frowns.

At this point Huxley woke up. “Man that hurt.” Huxley said running to Ben. “So why is Zeke’s hair blue?”

“That is X controlling her body...and thank god because I was scared I was going to get beaten way too much.” Ben says while keeping his shield up just in case.

“You’re lucky I finally managed to take control… At that much rage and power Zeke was accessing from his heart, me, and the other Keyblades, she could have killed Core in a fight.”

“To be honest that doesn’t sound helpful right now. So anyways...want us to warn Unum?” He asks X.

“You warn Unum I’ll find the Foretellers and Eclipes just incase Zeke breaks through.” Huxley said getting on a Keyblade glider.

“Don’t worry about her breaking out, when I take over Zeke loses consciousness. Until I give control back, she’s out like a light.”

“Okay then…” Ben says while lowering his shield. “Well...we should still warn Unum about all of this…” Ben frowns. “Christ, and here I thought this would have been a simple day…”

“Come on, let’s go for a walk, I usually just see things from what Zeke is doing, so moving around myself will be a nice change.” X said as they walked out of the hole and into Daybreak, followed by Ben.

“Well...I suppose it would be nice to talk with you X.” Ben says honestly. “By the by...what do you think about my Keyblade?” He asks, showing X his Keyblade.

“Frankly, it’s not a real Keyblade unless some Grandfather Light is forged within it, it’s sorta like a copy, since a Keyblade is only it’s Keychain, that Keychain lacks Grandfather Light.”

“Well...I suppose that makes sense. Cause this keyblade was...forged from a piece of my heart.” Ben explains.

“I know, it sounds just like you.”

“Alright...I just hope Reunion isn’t saying anything silly.” Ben says sheepishly.

“It doesn’t say much, but when it does talk, it’s mentioning the things it’s been through since it was forged… gotta say, where or how Core made a Keyblade forge I’ll never know.”

“Well it’s worrying when you think about it...I just hope we can stop his forge or his forging technique to stop him from just making as many as he wants.” Ben says with a frown.

“Again, without Grandfather Light, or Darkness, they’re not real Keyblades.”

“It’s real enough...but anyways how’s it feel being wielded by Zeke?” Ben asks curiously.

“Honestly, refreshing. Even Mors, er, Lord Death, was kinda a pushover in the beginning. Zeke grew up to be a killer, but only will kill to protect what he loves. Having an experienced fighter from the get-go is nice.”

“I have Unum and I already told her that Zeke got knocked up.” Huxley said dropping of Unum from his Keyblade Glider.

“I am so sorry- why is X taking control?” Unum asked.

“Because she would have killed you if X didn’t...did I forget that part?” Huxley said.

“All I heard was I knocked up my husband and that was it.” Unum admitted. “I didn’t think those spells were fertil… crap, then the spell won’t wear off till… I’m not actually sure. I’ll need to ask Rune.”

“I don’t know much about magic but I’m pretty sure the spell will stop taking effect after a day or so after birth…” Ben says, taking a wild guess but it seemed like a good guess either way.

“I guess that sounds about right.” Unum said. “Crap… well, I did number seventy… and that was one I tried not to do…”

“I don’t want to know.” Huxley said as the Foretellers arrived.

“Oh, hey guys.” Ben says, trying to change the subject from Rune’s fetishes.

“We came as soon as we heard. So is it really true? And why is her hair different?” Kira asked.

“His hair is different because it’s the X-blade in control and yes she is pregnant I was the one that told her.” Huxley said as they wondered how he could tell.

“Well that is very interesting.” Dan said, “So I’m guessing that she was pretty mad.”

“He wanted to murder Unum.” Huxley said.

“Alright, I guess the best option we have now is to go to the Palace and tell everyone else. Should we keep him captive until he calms down?” Lan asked.

“I’m not giving control back to Zeke til we can make sure when I do, she’s calm.”

“Alright. Then to the palace.”

“Yeah I actually have a bit to talk about with all of you.” Ben says, remembering he had to talk to the council about stuff...before stopping. “Waitwaitwait...did you say one of your wielders was Lord Death?” He asks, a small amount of giddiness starting to show up.

“Yeah, his name was Mors back then, was human too, lost a fight with Core, world split into the other worlds, multiverse, and because he became a grim reaper, his heart was out of balance, and lost the ability to wields me.”

“Well….that’s a whole bunch of something.” Ben says, his eyes wide at hearing such a thing. “Didn’t...know that.”

“Yeah, Lord Death is from the generation that survived the world breaking into many. So that makes him just a few trillion years younger than Core and God.”

“My reflections Discord and Celestia and Luna’s parents said they were survivors of the Keyblade war…” Ben says honestly. “There nice people don’t worry but...just thought I’d mention it.”

“Lots of people lost their lives that year, yeah, the war lasted a year. You can say almost every Keyblade has PTSD just remembering a small thing about it.”

“I am so sorry.” Ben says quickly, not liking how he made them remember something so horrid. “There’s so many questions I have...yet I doubt I’ll be able to learn much…” He says, not sure if he could ask X any questions about the past and if that would at all cause bad things to happen.

“Let’s not dawdle on the past for now. We need to make our way to the palace.” Dan said. “And If you are curious about the War, then we could tell you at a later time.” He offered.

“You all have a lot to explain about all this ‘Foreteller’ crap, and Luxu has a lot of crap to explain as well, and hopefully you all could talk to him.” Ben says.

“Oh yeah, we have some questions for Master Luxu too.” Alex added.

“By the by...should I ask what he stored here? Cause he said that he shoved something here and made sure Core couldn’t reach it...know why?” Ben asks curiously, remembering Luxu talked about golf clubbing this place away as far as he could to keep it away from Core.

“We’ll explain on the way.”

“So you're telling me…” Ben takes a deep breath. “That this Master of Masters decided to craft the most dangerous, most deadly, and most whatever else Keyblade just because he was scared of X?” Ben frowns. “This thing can revoke existence better than Memory Stealer.” Ben says worriedly.

“That’s about the size of it.” Jenny said. “He explained it all himself when we found the damn thing.”

“Why the hell would Jesus make something so fucking demonic?” Ben frowns, remembering that the Master of Masters is God's son. “Um...did you know about the Masters father being God?” He asks curiously.

“Yeah we already know. And he made it because he was afraid that X-blade would appear again, also if Master Ava failed her role in spreading the light after the War had consumed all worlds in darkness.” Lan explained.

“Then it's a good thing this Master Ava or whatever did her job right.” Eclipse says walking up to the group.

“Yes. If it wasn’t for her and her students, then the worlds would still be coated in darkness.” Kira said seriously.

“Yeah, I wasn't dissing her. That was a complement, trust me.” Eclipse says in response to the hostility.

“Anyways.” Ben says, not wanting a bad thing to start here. “Besides the Master deciding to make an existence ender...mind telling me about all of the stuff that happened before the War?” He asks, wanting to know more about what happened before the war happened.

“Well the original Foretellers were the students of the Master of Masters. Before he and Luxu disappeared, he gave each of his students a role. Ira to lead them, Aced to be his second in command, Invi to watch over them, Gula do decipher the Book of Prophecies, and Ava to gather and teach the Dandelions. All while gathering their Unions and training exceptional keyblade users. After they discovered a Nightmare Chirithy, the Foretellers began to distrust each other. One thing lead to another, and that started the Keyblade war. Between the Masters and their Unions. The only Union that didn’t participate was Master Ava’s Union as she released her Dandelions, and went after Luxu.” Lan explained.

“That…” Ben starts. “That sounds like the stupidest fucking soap opera I have ever heard.” He says with a frown. “I’m sorry I know it’s something that’s deep and meaningful but holy fuck.”

A DTL opened behind Ben, and Luxu walked out. “Dude, insult that stuff again, and I will kill you.” Luxu said, his tone one of anger.

“I didn’t mean to offend…” Ben says honestly.

“Yes you did…”

“I suppose it would seem that way to someone that’s lived through it.” Ben sighs out. “Anyways what are you doing Luxu?”

“Duh, as for why I’m here, I came to see the ghost’s again.” Luxu looked at the Foretellers. “I take it you saw the Hall of Sins?”

“Yeah, we did when we rose the tower back up.” Alex said. “And we’re not ghosts. We have names.”

“To me, you're ghost’s of people I once knew. You see the rest of the hall?”

“The hell about a hall?” Ben frowns, not entirely sure about this part.

“It’s where my reflection’s and I all placed our friends robes and Keyblades to rest, as well as the boxes.”

“Well then…” Ben frowns. “I wonder how much more very important crap I’m missing…”

“Well he did say boxes. So was there more than the Void blade the Master wanted to hide?” Dan asked.

“Myself and dad had reflections, so yes. Lot’s to hide. Void was just the worst of them. Each box holds something dark, costing them all to lose their hearts and bodies. All that you see them as now is a Lingering Will.”

“Wait...Lingering Will? I thought that was just Terra’s armor acting on it’s own?” Ben asks in confusion.

“A lingering will is like a ghost possessing something.” Luxu explained.

“I turned my reflections Lingering Will back into Terra and now something is telling me that was a bad idea.” Huxley said.

“My Terra is back to normal but...his armor is still probably in the Graveyard...or not because of that really weird situation where a crystal coffin holding Ventus there appeared….” Ben frowns.

“Maybe, who knows. So, ghosts, wanna see the other boxes?” Luxu asked.

“I...suppose.” Ben says honestly. “I might regret it but I might as well know. I’m missing so much info as is….”

“Good, oh, as for bringing a Lingering Will back to life, it’s just getting them what they lost back.” Luxu explained. “Now then, let’s head to the Hall of Sins.”

“Let’s a go.” Ben says as he tagged along to find this Hall of Sins.

“Find me before you wake Zeke up I’m going out.” Huxley said as his stomach growled.

“You all head on, explain it all to Zeke later, I’m gonna help his wives prepare for when she wakes up.” X said, walking off.

“I’m going to head off aswell, besides, I need to tell you something X….in private.” Eclipse said

“So I guess it's just the rest of us.” Alex said. “And I’m really curious what else the Master of Masters had up his sleeve.”

“I wonder what wonders I’ll have to purge from my memory. Also Luxu...you do know that the ‘Hall of Sin’ sounds like an actual dungeon from the Diablo series right?” Ben asks.

“Diablo? What’s that dick gotta do with this?” Luxu asked.

“I mean the game Diablo, not that bastard.” Ben says. “Ya know, the top down dungeon crawler made by Blizzard?” He explains, hoping Luxu knew about it. “Actually...now that I think about it in some worlds have video games about other worlds?” Ben asks with a frown, finding that little trail of thought quite interesting.

“Let’s not get distracted.” Lan intervened. “To the Hall of Sins.”

“Sorry man.” Ben says sheepishly. “I’m...getting into too many tangents now a days...with a side of philosophy for some weird ass reason.”

The group of Luxu, the five Foretellers, and Ben arrived in the Hall of Sins. The room looked to be untouched since the last time Zeke and the others were there.

“Now then” Luxu said, gaining everyone’s attention. “Where do you think the other boxes are?”

“Where?” Dan asked.

“It's in another chamber connected to this one.” Luxu said, summoning Gazing Eye.

“What chamber? I don’t see another room.” Jenny said.

Luxu struck the floor with his Keyblade, and In a flash, there was a small spiral staircase appeared where the floor was. “I like to call it, ‘Hell’.” Luxu said as he walked down the stairs.

“Well let’s see if it lives up to the name.” Ben mutters to himself as he followed Luxu down the stairs, along with the rest of the party.

The group walked down for a while, finally exiting into a massive, dimly lit room, where black boxes like the one Void was in were placed in aisles, with each having a Gazing Eye and a tattered black cloak resting on them. “I’m the only one who walked out of here. The last Luxu of all the reflections of me...” Luxu said.

“The other you’s died? How’d that happen if you’re still here?” Alex asked.

“...When we all came here, you can imagine we all weren’t in the best mental state…I walked away, because I didn’t want to die...“

“Oh…” Ben mutters, now understanding full well why Luxu called this ‘Hell’. “That’s...can we agree to never tell Time about this?” He asks Luxu worriedly.

“Agreed. Now then, each box holds something different, something dark. That’s why we hid them all here, they’re all weapons, some worthy of being Core’s, others that have no reason to exist. This room, is the devil’s arsenal.”

“...” Ben takes a breath. “Um...wow...this is...pretty fucked up…” He frowns, not entirely sure if he want’s to start looking through the boxes. “But...why do I have a feeling one of these has plans for some demon golem army or something…” Ben asks, just naming off a random thing that could exist in here.

“It could be. From what we saw last time, it couldn’t be any more dangerous that the Void blade.” Lan said.

Luxu kicked open a box, knocking over the rusted Gazing Eye and tattered cloak on it in the process. Inside, was a small pistol, with a Heartless symbol on it. “Experiment 0894-BA… the Heartless gun… rather than dying when shot, instant heartless, never needs to be reloaded, instant dark army for the holder.” Luxu said.

“Oh.” Ben mutters. “That’s...special. But um...is all the items here made of Darkness?” Ben asks. “No experiments made using Nothingness?” He asks, his morbid curiosity sadly getting to him.

Luxu walked over to another box, and flicked it open also. Inside, was a sword that looked like it was made from glass. “Experiment G8529-R3… the End… one hit, a cut, enemy becomes a Nobody, and their heart… destroyed.”

“Well this room certainly earned its name.” Dan said. “Were all of these just for experiments or is there a purpose? Besides putting the world in more danger by them existing in the first place.”

“Purpose?” Luxu chuckled coldly. “Everything in here, it’s purpose, was to end it all… just because my father feared the X-blade. Void was his worst one… second to none… not even Experiment one.”

“What’s the first experiment?” Kira asked

Luxu merely pointed up, as everyone looked up, they nearly screamed at the massive eyeball staring at them. “Experiment one…the God of the Void…or, at least, an artificial Void.”

“Why in the name of the nine hells did he decide to make a god like Beholder!?” Ben asks, fear filling his voice as he stared at the giant eye.

“The Void does contain life, far more dangerous and evil than anything the realms of Darkness, or Core, could ever make. If one was to access that power… I need not say more.”

“So...Void Lords and Eldritch beings do exist…” Ben says worriedly. “That’s...not good.”

“God and Core, before they became what they are now, had a younger brother, he fell into Void, Experiment one… was born from grandfather's own blueprints my dad found… and he made it reality.”

“I…” Ben starts. “For some reason...I feel like I should know who that is...but I don’t know why.” Ben frowns, rummaging through his head on where he might have heard of someone who has the powers of the Void.

“In any case, you all now know just how dangerous everything in here is…so make sure…if you ever need to use anything here…know that you accept nothing short of hell for using the things in here.”

“Memory Stealer isn’t anywhere near this…” Ben mutters worriedly, thinking that Xion’s keyblade was already stupid strong but seeing this hell it feels like he was holding a normal stick compared to an arsenal of the damned.

“Dad wanted to create weapons, to kill gods… he succeeded. He made weapons fit for devils.”

“To think, the Master of Masters would make these weapons. He taught you and the original Foretellers and inspired their Unions. This, isn’t befitting of a true Keybearer.” Lan said sadly.

“You know what he, and all his reflections told my reflections? About what was in our boxes… he said this to all of us… ‘they’re peacekeepers.’” Luxu said angrily. “And we were dumb enough to believe it.”

“Well...if he told you the truth you’d probably smack him and tell him to destroy it…” Ben says. “It still doesn’t excuse this hellish amount of weapons that don’t deserve to exist to begin with but still…”

“Yeah... there is only one thing he made, that could come close to redeeming him…” Luxu reached into his cloak, and pulled out a scroll. “Blueprints… for a Keyblade Forge.”

“X said you needed Grandfather Light to make Keyblades…” Ben says, still not a hundred percent on this whole ‘make keyblades without light’ part.

“That’s what makes this one invention amazing…place Grandfather light, no matter how small, into its fire… and it will make it grow, and multiply. This forge, can bring back the Grandfather Light.”

“That sounds...both amazing...and yet scary that he somehow figured out how to make a primordial entity grow and multiply…” Ben says honestly.

“It’s not complete though, it’s missing one thing… a rather sadistic missing piece…”

“What is it?” Lan asked.

“The heart, of the X-blades wielder…”

“Ya know...I thought it would have been the Heart of a world and all that inhabited it...but that seems equally sadistic for some reason…” Ben says with a frown, not sure why he thought of something like that.

“Do me a favor… don’t tell Zeke about it, he’ll try and work around it…and fail. Only a balanced heart can make the forge operate, power it… I’d rather not he know this is how every Keyblade forge is made…”

“Don’t worry. We’ll keep quiet.” Lan said. “What do we do with the blueprints though? There is a chance he’ll find them.”

“Luxu is on my reflection of Equestria so Zeke won’t always see him so there’s that...and I’m pretty sure Luxu would sooner cleave a world in half then have that scroll get into anyone’s hands other than his…” Ben explains.

“Even so… Gazing eye has shown me that you find Core’s forge, that one he modified with darkness… that event will drive Zeke to his limit.”

“Well thank you for answering my question on Core having his own Keyblade forge...cause X said that my keyblade is just a copy of one…” Ben explains.

“Not a copy, just… incomplete.”

“Now that we’ve seen… everything, we should head to where the others are. We’ve been here quite a while. And I’d rather not be in this room any longer than I have to.” Lan said coldly.

Luxu snapped his fingers, opening a DTL. “Yeah, I gotta go. Told Time I was heading to the bathroom and it’s been awhile since then now.” Luxu said as he entered, the DTL closing as he walked in.

“Well then...who want’s ice cream? Cause I want ice cream to help drown my brain from that horrifying mess…” Ben says while clapping his hands. “Also sorry that Luxu had to go...he has a girlfriend now.”

“We get it… well I get it.” Lan said. “So, we should be on our way.”

The rest of the party had swiftly left Hell.

Eclipse walks with X for a while without saying anything before saying. “I'm just going to come out and say it… two things. First, I can't summon Oblivion. Second….it's about the person I killed.”

X stopped walking, and stood there for a time. “Your heart… it’s trying to split. Back in the day, we called that ‘Split Core’. When darkness and light in a heart is trying to come apart by themselves. I am curious though… what happened to Oblivion?”

“I….I watched my darkness consume his Keychain. The darkness also took away his free will, saying that although Oblivion is a Keyblade of light, it draws power from darkness.”

X was visibly struggling to keep calm. “Oblivion is a Twin Keyblade, Oathkeeper keeps him in check, while he is made from light, his power is connected to the darkness in his wielders heart. Oathkeeper draws from the light only, the two were middle children, made to replace me until a wielder of my own showed up for me. In other words, they are the balance keepers when I am not around.”

“I...I'm so sorry...I can tell Oath is keeping her sadness and anger bottled up, but my darkness point blank said, one more tug on my heart, and he comes free. I can't help her.”

“A Keyblade without it’s free will and mind… becomes close to a fallen Keyblade, in your understandable equivalent… of a demon. As for your heart, yes. One tug, one his over the heart, your darkness will escape from you. Now then… I saw Oathkeepers dents.” X’s tone was dark.

“The first ones were from….the kill...the others were my darkness when we fought...I didn't think a Keyblade could dent.” Eclipse says, still perplexed by that fact.

“We may be powerful, but even we face mortality, injuries. While age isn’t the issue, it’s about the impacts that can do us in. For every bit of darkness we destroy with our wielders, we both grow stronger… if the darkness is too strong for us to handle, we bend, twist, crack, shatter… die. Seems your opponent and your darkness were too strong for the both of you… what triggered this?”

“I...I killed one of the Ventrals….in anger after she dented Oathkeeper. Oblivion was screaming for her blood and I noticed she was wary whenever I struck near her stomach….I used stopga despite knowing how draining it is and struck with the intent to kill….I killed both her...and her child.” Eclipse said, his breath becoming heavy as If he was about to throw up. “After that...the killing mood….and you can guess the rest…”

X was silent for a long time. “So, you admit killing an unborn child to a council member… while I won’t punish you for the killing of the woman… her child is another story… that, you will be punished for.”

“I figured that would be the case...and I wouldn't have it any other way….even Oath shut up when I brought up that fact.” Eclipse said, looking at the ground.

“I don’t think Zeke or the council should know about this… but… was this the girl?” X pulled out the pendant Ben gave Zeke, and showed the pictures to Eclipse.

Eclipse nods sadly. “Yes, her name was Kristy.”

“If Zeke’s memories are right… she had one dream… aside from robbing every bank in Australia.”

“I believe it...they are human. Bad people, but human just the same. And humans dream.” Eclipse says shakily. “What...what was hers?”

“To be a mom.”

“Heh...so not only did I take her life...but I stole her dream…” Eclipse says, tears forming in his eyes. “Damn it….”

“Now then… what should your punishment for killing an unborn child be?”

“Nothing is too much for that… hell, I'd give myself a life sentence. But something tells me you have a different plan.”

“A life sentence sounds good… from now on, you’re sentenced to life in caretaking.” X said, a smirk across the face he was controlling.

“I….what?” Eclipse says, confused.

“You heard me. When you get back to your reflection, open an orphanage, and take care of every lost child you come across… till you die. Understood? You ended a life not yet lived, so your punishment will be to help and aid those that need it in the beginning of theirs.”

“I… I understand. I don't think I'm...the one to raise children but I understand.” Eclipse says, still confused, but glad he is getting some kind of punishment.

“Good then, now, mind doing me a favor?”

“Depends on the favor.” Eclipse responds.

“I’m heading over to Zeke’s wives to give control back to her… mind when she wakes up, you keep her from strangling Unum? She kinda knocked her up.”

Eclipse stared blankly at X for a moment before bursting out laughing .“Oh gods...Sure X, I'll help.”

“Great, wanna know something only I know, well, Kingdom Hearts and I know? It’s about Zeke.”

“I'll bite, what is it?”

“Zeke is a human Keyblade, you know this, but the kind of Keyblade he… she is… it’s a human version of me… and so will her child… you understand that there’s only meant to be one of me in existance, now there’s gonna be three. You know what that means?”

“The multiverse is fucked when that child hits puberty?”

“Ha! Not quite. None of Zeke’s other children were born like… me, only this one… which makes me thing only the ‘direct’ descendants of Zeke can be like me, if that happens… need I say more?”

Dawning realisation hits Eclipse upside side the head. “The child will have a balanced heart. And have access to Kingdom Hearts...oh fuck.”

“Not just that, if this child is born female, then she might have another X-blade child. Half Keyblades are one thing… but human X-blades… they’re demigods.”

“If this kid is female….Zeke will have given birth to the Keyblade variant of the Alicorns...holy hell….”

“Exactly. If that happens, that’s a positive, and negative.”

“I can see how. Positive, you have a race of balancers. Downside is exactly that, a race of balance. One kid becomes too goody two shoes, and one will end up being a villain. In fighting amongst family over something as natural as breathing for them. And with access to Kingdom Hearts and now the multiverse…..” Eclipse stops that train of thought.

“Yeah… frightens me and Kingdom Hearts both, but, if it happens, it happens.”

“As most time travel movies state, you can’t change the past, only add to it. What's done is done.”

“Yeah. Now, come on, we’re close to Zeke’s bedroom, and I’m sure Unum told them what happened already, so you just keep Zeke from going crazy, alright?”

“Worst case scenario, I use stopga and deal with the migraine from hell the next morning.”

The two made it to Zeke’s bedroom, Zeke’s wives were there. Some were nervous, others were chuckling. X layed Zeke’s body on the bed and closed their eyes, Zeke’s hair quickly changing back to blond. “I fucked up…” Unum said.

“Hey, don't blame yourself. From what X told me on the way here, this is a small thing that could have happened after going that far from you.” Eclipse says

“I didn’t think those spells were fertile…” Rune said. “It’s kinky, but still unexpected.”

“Well, what's done is done. Lets hope momma Zeke here thinks the same when she wakes up.” Eclipse said comically.

Rainbow Dash chuckled. “I wonder if when the kid is older, are they gonna forever gonna call Zeke mom, or dad?”

“That….. is a very good question.”

“I just hope the child is born healthy.” Toriel said. “In my world, some monsters change their gender at will to reproduce, but this is a human so… I’m not sure.”

“It is also magic, and despite my many magic lessons, I have come to the conclusion that magic doesn't care if it makes sense, it does what it wants. As long as he stays a she for the term, I don't see what could go wrong.”

“Core.” Fluttershy said, worried. “If they somehow attack… Unversed can already managed to be on Daybreak, but if they show up… with Zeke like this…”

“Flutters, if there is one thing you of all people should know, is don't fuck with a momma, especially while pregnant. That's asking to die.”

“Ugh.” Zeke’s voice sounded, everyone in the room stiffened in slight fear. “I have the worst head ac-” Zeke’s eyes shot open. “... Did… Did Unum really get me pregnant?” She asked, sitting up.

“‘Fraid so cuz. But hey, it's all okay. Now you get to know what your wives go through.” Eclipse stated bluntly

There was a noticeable sweat bead on Zeke’s forehead. “Heheh… yay, I’m gonna be the first man from earth to go through childbirth… Am I gonna be stuck like this after the kid’s born?”

“I...have no idea but according to Twilight you shouldn't.”

“Well, it’s likely.” Twilight said. “While no incident like this is typically reported, there were a few known cases back before the Nobodies showed up. About half of the people a few days after birth changed back, and the ones who enjoyed being female stayed that way… seems mostly to depend on your feelings of the matter.”

“That’s just it though.” Zeke said, crossing her arms. “I kinda don’t care if I’m a guy or girl, the whole pregnant thing is just… surprising… I get this is someone's fetish, but I’m just in the middle of hating and liking it.”

“Hey, think of it like this, what's done is done, no need to dwell on it or stuff gets worse. Focus on after the baby arrives for now.” Eclipse says, trying to be helpful.

“I’m worried about the baby now… If it’s a boy or girl, what kinda Keychain it will come out as… if Core tries anything…”

“For the boy or girl, I think that's a common one, the keychain I would think would be more interesting than scary.” Eclipse says “As for that last fear, you have your wives, friends, a entire kingdom, and me to help out with defence if he strikes while you're in labor. Any other time is suicide on Core’s side.”

“Even so… what if… the baby, or I don’t… make it?”

“Alright girls, you help him out here, I'm not the one with experience.” Eclipse says, making room for the others.

The first to come up was Hearts Care, and Derpy, who both wrapped their arms around Zeke. “Listen Zeke.” Hearts Care started. “That is a reasonable fear, both you and the baby could die in the process, but you know what helps?”

“What?”

“Wanting to see your baby.” Derpy finished. “Childbirth is a miracle because both mother and child could die in the process, when both survive, that’s the real miracle.”

“Besides.” Rune cut in. “We’re here for you, and even as a pregnant woman, there’s fun to be had~”

Zeke blushed. “You got me there. I guess it will just happen when it happens.”

“Oh and about that part of being the first male from earth to get pregnant, at least your not the first to have a period. That title belongs to me.” Eclipse buts in.

Zeke and Eclipse burst out in laughter. “True, but birth will hurt a lot more I imagine.”

“Yeah, but you can wear yours like a badge of honor, and have a trophy to show for it in the form of a kid. I just have the memory of pain and anger.”

“And your Twilight’s laughing at your misery I bet.”

“....and her stupid photos….I swear if that mare wasn't my sister…” Eclipse grumbles.

“Well, thanks for calming me down… So, I guess all that’s left for today is the Darkside vs. Twilight Thorn fight on the moon, hope you don’t mind Luna.”

“Not at all.” Luna said. “Could use a few hundred more craters.”

“And with that, I'll leave you ladies to have some….fun time. See you at ten cuz!” Eclipse says with a smirk as he walks out.

Daybreak was filled with excitement over the monster fight, many were watching on tv, some flew to the moon itself via glider to watch up close. Zeke, Ben, Eclipse, and a few others stood in front of camera’s to explain the battle. “Greetings Daybreak, it’s council member Zeke… Yeah, I know, it’s a… spell gone wrong at the lab. Anyway, today is Daybreak’s first ever giant monster fight, and joining me are Eclipse, acting as the commentator, and Ben, who is in control of the second monster.” Zeke backed up, giving the two room to speak.

“It’s wonderful to meet the people of Daybreak.” Ben says with a small bow before straightening himself before stepping aside so Eclipse could talk.

Eclipse stepped up with a smile. “Today we are watching two titans that we have always wondered ‘who would win?’ The Nobody Giant, Twilight Thorn, or the Great Shadow, Darkside. The Nobody and Heartless will be under control by Council member Zeke and Ben respectively, so don't worry those of you in the audience, no harm will come to any of you.”

Zeke quickly stepped in. “No, Daybreak homeworld residents, please remain calm, much as I have full, non corrupted use of Heartless, Ben here has full control over his Nobodies without being insane. He’s nutty at best.” Zeke stepped away again.

“That depends on how you define those words Zeke.” Ben jokes with a smile. “But as council member Zeke has explained yes, I have full control over Nobodies without being a bad guy. I am also, as far as any of us know, the only person who can control Nobodies while still retaining my heart. Everything will be under control.” He explains before stepping away again.

Eclipse decides to add some charm for this next bit. “Besides, let’s break away from the safety, let’s talk about the Combatants! It’s not everyday you see a Darkside, let alone a Twilight Thorn! What can you say about their strengths and weaknesses?”

“I’ll start.” Ben says before stepping forward. “A Twilight Thorn is fast and flexible, able to swiftly dodge and attack at the same time. It can also shift its form to either act like a dome to summon Creeper nobodies and thorns to attack its opponent. It also has the ability to fly and basically turn itself into a giant magical cannon. I’m not entirely sure if it can chain up a Darkside but I do know that if it get’s the chance a Twilight Thorn can and most likely will summon a giant sphere of energy to drive into its opponent.” Ben explains. “But while you might think that’s all well and good the Twilight Thorn tends to just move around and focus it’s thoughts on it’s opponent, not attacking a good majority of the time even if it’s ready to defend itself. It’s special ‘dome’ ability can leave it wide open for attacks even if the thorns it summons can defend it’s not as good of a defense as some might think.” Ben explains before thinking for a moment. “Did I miss anything or was that about it?” He asks, hoping he didn’t miss anything of importance here as he stepped away.

“I think that’s all.” Zeke said, stepping forward. “Now then, we all know a Darkside varies in power, attacks, but is known to be rather slow compared to a Twilight thorn. What it does have for it though, is raw strength and primal instinctual combat. So in a nutshell, this is primal instinct vs basic intelligence, strength or speed? Which will win? We won’t stop you all from betting, but any of you try to help your side win or start a fight, you will be arrested.” Zeke said. “Now then, Let the fight begin.” Zeke snapped his fingers as the camera suddenly changed to the moon’s surface, where a Darkside came up from the darkness.

Ben clapped his hands and placed them on the ground, a giant white hole appearing behind him as thorns started swirling around before a Twilight Thorn appeared, standing there and looking at the Darkside.

Eclipse flew up on his Glider, a microphone strapped to his hoof. “Ladies and Gentlemen, It’s time for a monster fight!” He yelled as the magic walls around the arena came up. “In the shadow corner we have Darkside! On the Nothing corner Twilight Thorn! Let the battle commence!”

“To start off the Fight we see Twilight Thorn dodge a blow from the Darkside, oh he’s summoning the shadows! Oh no, this left him open for a attack from the twilight thorn, sending the thorn directly to the Darkside! They didn’t do much, but Twilight Thorn is still untouched folks! Darkside is sticking his hand into the ground, and pulling out a Dark sphere! And there are too many of them for it’s large sides as the Twilight thorn takes some hits of his own! That's going to leave a mark. Looks like Twilight Thorn is done playing as it goes for it’s own Sphere attack! Glad I’m on this side of the barrier and OH! Darkside just TANKED that hit! it is looking pretty bad but sure isn’t about to show it as it grabs the Twilight Thorn and tries to pummel it while they are on the ground! Brutal! Wouldn’t expect anything less from a- did-did Twilight Thorn just slip from under Darkside, slapping him the entire time?! Looks like that mind of Thorn’s is on overdrive right now as they are both nearing their last legs here. And Twilight with the dome, mixed with Darkside summoning those shadow again. The Shadow’s and Creepers are duking it out as Darkside rears up to do it’s whole chest shot thing. With Twilight immobile for now, those hits are all hitting! It is starting to look like Darkside, But wait! Twilight Thorn decides to use it’s Sphere again?! How many can it do?! And OH! It’s so close folks, I’d estimate one more hit, and it’s all over! Darkside, going for that punch, and Twilight thorn dodges with a mass of thorns to Darkside’s face! And it disperses back into darkness! It’s all over folks! The winner is Twilight Thorn!” Eclipse yells as he flies back down to where the three all met up earlier.

“Seemed a little touch and go don’t ya think?” Ben asks, the massive amount of cheering at the fight being awesome felt like it could be felt three worlds over.

“Kinda.” Zeke says. “We should do this more often with different enemies. You game?”

“Yes, yes and more yes.” Ben says with a giddy smile. “And maybe, just maybe, there are other giant Nobodies that could add to the fun don’t ya think?”

“Dragon vs that boss from KH one?” Eclipse suggests.

“Sure, but some other day, let’s not break Luna’s moon in one day now.” Zeke jokes, turning to the camera. “Well then, till whenever these two show up again, night Daybreak.”

Eclipse and Ben both wave to the camera as the cameraman signals it turning off. “That was fun.” Eclipse says, taking a sip of water.

“So Ben.” Zeke starts. “Mind helping in bring back the rest of the world tomorrow?”

“It sounds like quite a task.” Ben says before waving his hand, the Twilight thorn vanishing quickly. “But let’s hope I’m up to the task. Becoming a Keyblade Master sure helped me with summoning so I think I can handle it.”

“Great, I wanna get a bunch of stuff out of the way before the kid comes, and since Keyblade children only need a month and a half in the womb, I got a short limit.”

“Is everyone a Keyblade Master but me?” Eclipse ask exasperated.

“Well, I think two other people I know haven’t taken their exams for the Master mark, but I should try and check up on them again.”

“Who are these other two?” Ben asks curiously. “Other people god gave keyblades to or what?”

“Okami, and John Corvo. Neither of them had Keyblades, I gave them one each. Okami got Two Become One, and John got Fenrir. John has… assassin abilities from the Dishonored game, and Okami is some kinda guard.”

“Wait….Corvo?” Ben says before his eyes widen in realization. “No wonder why I thought that…” Ben mutters to himself. “Well thank you for telling me that Zeke...wonder if I’ll meet those two anytime soon.” Ben says honestly.

“Hopefully. Been a while and those two have their own issues to deal with, also, Ben, I wanna talk with Luxu. X told me a few things, and I wanna ask about how to fix dented Keyblades…Eclipse’s Oathkeeper needs repairs.”

Eclipse looks down, ashamed. “Yeah...Yeah she is.”

“Luxu’s with Time at the moment but I’m pretty sure he’s willing to talk to ya…” Ben says honestly, unconsciously shivering at the horrors that Luxu showed him and the Foretellers in that hell hole. “I’m pretty sure he’s got a lot to talk about alright…”

“That reminds me, I need to tell you what God told me not long ago Zeke, but with all this craziness I almost forgot.” Eclipse says looking up.

“What’s up?” Zeke asks.

“Apparently I was close to unlocking Oblivion and Oathkeeper’s true powers….Oblivion to send someone and all their reflections to the void, and oathkeeper to bring a single reflection of somebody out. Then my heart started to split….”

Zeke’s eyes widened. “So then… what you're saying is… if you can unlock this power, you can get Core’s Unum back?”

“That doesn’t sound either completely broken or have more drawbacks than a hooker in vegas with every known STD known to man whatsoever.” Ben says, not entirely making sense but hoping his point got across to them.

“I’m never using Oblivion’s when I get him back. I could be about to die, with Luna and Twi bleeding right next to me, and I wouldn’t use it. That kind of power….no one deserves to erase existence.” Eclipse said firmly.

“Memory Stealer has a similar ability but a lot weaker. It can only revoke the existence of people with a heart...and trust me I understand that fact a lot more, Core even told me about it.” Ben says honestly. “I should get to that with the Council...I have a few things to talk about…”

“I...I don’t know if I should. I know they would want to know about everything about me...and there are some things, some skeletons best left in the closet.”

“I understand...but remember we need to stand united against Core and his allies...we all understand if you want to keep certain things under wraps but sooner or later you’re gonna have to tell people...mostly your friends.” Ben explains.

“Yeah yeah….” Eclipse says, looking down. “I know it will come out eventually...I just want to delay it for now, you know?”

“I understand.” Ben nods. “But sooner rather than later, that page of your story will appear. Just be ready when it comes alright? All our stories, even while separate, are all together in this.” He says while putting a gentle hand on Eclipse’s head. “Remember that alright?”

Eclipse chuckles. “This is my story Auron, no need to get all preachy on me.”

“I wish I was Auron.” Ben laughs. “But oh well, we can’t all be philosophical badasses ya know?” He says before taking his hand off of the pony’s head.

“Still though,” Zeke said. “We have Core’s heart, and if we can place it back into him, and have his Unum back, he might give up there. He became what he is because he lost her.”

“Yeah…” Ben nods. “But it’s gonna be a huge gamble. To be perfectly honest I would think if Core knew Eclipse could bring back his wife then Core would grab him and torture him until he did it.” He explains. “Core is not one of those people that would sit down and wait for his enemies to revive his wife…and given how Core is now...” Ben trails off with a worried look.

“I can’t even do it yet! God said that no one has even gotten close to unlocking it and I am the closest. If he does, it would be a waste. Core may be impatient, but he isn't stupid.” Eclipse says, not worried.

“I wasn’t worried about him being impatient I was worried about his wife learning about all of this and then...most likely kicking his ass so much one of her shoe’s becomes his new jawbone.” Ben explains.

“Thanks a lot….” Eclipse grumbles as they all teleport back to the planet for some much needed shut eye.

Mega Repairs

View Online

Ben walked through the castle halls, still clad in his white trench coat and his crooked silver crown resting on his head but seeming to have an air of loneliness even if he was humming something that sounded enjoyable. “Let’s hope I can get home soon…” He mutters to himself, barely being gone for a day or two and already being homesick and lonely.

“Hey Ben.” Huxley called out, walking down the hall towards Ben.

“Oh, hey Huxley.” Ben says with a little wave. “How you doing? Thought you had stuff to do that wasn’t here?” Ben asks curiously.

“I was planning on leaving later today but I wanted to make sure Zeke was fine. I didn’t see him after I left...even though I asked you guys to come and get me when he woke up.” Huxley said with a little anger in his voice.

“Weird...anyways did you at least catch the monster fight? I think with how the empire is it was broadcasted everywhere here…” Ben says, hoping he at least caught it.

“I think I went to bed before it happened.” Huxley said remembering that he went to bed around nine or ten.

“Well that sucks. I think they’ll be showing it again for a while at least.” Ben says, hoping that’s true. “But do you want to know the winner?”

“Let me guess it was the Twilight Thorn right?” Huxley guessed.

“Yep. It threw out two giant spheres of energy to help take it down.” Ben says. “It was actually close but Twilight Thorn add the edge in agility, brain power, and the mere fact it can summon a god damn spirit bomb at will.”

“Sweet. By the way what was in that room anyway?” Huxley asked wondering what was in the room of hell.

“Horrors you don’t want to know about.” Ben says seriously, an involuntary shudder going down his spine at remembering it.

“Good to know...Is that Kira. Hey Kira!” Huxley shouted.

Kira looked over and waved. “Hey guys. Whatcha doin?”

“We were talking about the giant monster fight.” Huxley said.

“Oh, yeah that was awesome! The others and I were watching the whole thing. I knew the Twilight Thorn would win, but Jenny lost the bet to Alex so she was grumpy the rest of the night.” Kira said sheepishly.

“I can imagine, but frankly why would someone want to be upset? It was a giant monster fight!” Ben says with a smile. “But how are you doing Kira? Hope...things didn’t give you nightmares…” Ben trails off, referencing the Hall of Sins.

Kira’s smile faltered a bit. “Nah, I’m fine. What happened yesterday was unnerving, but that’s to be expected in our line of work.”

“I understand.” Ben nods. “Also just to mention, the Twilight Thorn wouldn’t shush during the fight...seriously try being super excited about a fight but keep hearing the thing ask where it’s heart is.” He explains. “But to give some context...given that I have a heart and summon Nobodies I can hear them talk.”

“I just had a thought what would be in that vault of hell.” Huxley said.

“I don’t know. What do you think?” Kira asked sarcastically.

“Some kind of device that makes keyblade’s.” Huxley said

“That’s a tad specific, but no.” Ben says bluntly.

“Well it was a thought, I don’t know what’s in there.” Huxley said.

“And it would be better if you kept it that way.” Ben says honestly.

“Yeah, It’s not like that’s exactly what was in there.” She said nervously, while winking and sticking her tongue out.

Ben patted Kira’s head. “That’ll do Fox...that’ll do.” He chuckles, finding her little antics silly.

“Anyway I’m going to check on Zeke before I leave, see you later.” Huxley said.

“Okay Huxley, stay safe. Kira mind if I meet the rest of the Foretellers?” Ben asks Kira. “I’d really like to know the five of you. And learn more about what you all have done cause I have a story or two.”

“Oh before I go should I take Elzin to your world so he can tell you what happens in the other Equestria Girls movies?” Huxley asked Kira.

“There’s more than one?” Ben asks curiously. “I mean it is Hasbro and MLP so I should have expected that but...still.”

“Really!? Cool. But I should probably take this seriously. Cause it could depict the future of my reflection.” Kira said with a, slightly cute, serious face.

“Has anyone ever told you you're serious look is cute?” Ben asks honestly.

“A few times. Oh, and there back in the common area. C’mon!” Kira smiles before grabbing Ben’s hand and drags him along to the common’s.

“Okay Kira calm down!” Ben laughs while following along quickly, finding her actions silly and causing his loneliness feeling to fade away like dust in the wind.

“Well that just happened.” Huxley said looking at Kira drag Ben. “Bye guys!” Huxley said.

“Bye!” Ben calls out to Huxley.

“Okay now where am I?” Huxley asked looking around at the signs apparently he was in the abandoned area.

“Huxley.” Suddenly, Lan called out as he walked towards him.

“Oh good I was worried I would have to fight this ghost alone, now I got Lan and Megaman.” Huxley joked.

“*Sigh* Yes, yes, I have the same name.” Lan said with a sigh, “And what’s this about a ghost?”

“Nothing its just were close to an abandoned area and normally that’s where there are ghost’s” Huxley explained as a ghostly wail came from direction of the abandoned area.

“Ah alright. So are you lost too? I don’t want to admit it, but this is a very confusing building. It’s difficult not to get lost.” Lan said tiredly.

“Yeah I know and did you not hear the ghostly wail?” Huxley asked as the ghostly wail went again.

“Yes, I have noticed that. But it’s probably just the wind.”

“I was looking for Zeke but I got lost here.” Huxley said.

“I was just roaming around, why don’t we go back to the guest rooms and decide where to go from there?”

“Sure let's head back.” Huxley said. They retraced their steps, and after a while they made it to the guests room. “So now where do we go from here?” Huxley asked.

“Well I’m pretty sure you could ask the guards to show you the way. Now I have to go to the Common area to meet with my team. See you later Huxley.”

“See yeah.” Huxley said as He asked the nearby guard where Zeke was.

“I hope your family actually likes me.” Ben says honestly to Kira, hoping to not make a bad ‘first’ impression.

“I’m sure they will. The five of us are a band of misfits anyways, so you won’t be the weird one out. I hope we can share our adventures so far.” She said.

“Well I have quite a story that would make even a band of misfits feel upset.” Ben explains honestly. “But um...I might be a little ranty just to give a fair warning...I tend to rant.”

“Eh, it’ll be fine. Promise.” She smiles. Eventually, they made it to the common area where the rest of the Foretellers were waiting around.

“Heyo!” Ben calls out to the Foretellers. “How you all doing? Did you catch the fight?”

“Yeah, we all did. Pretty sweet! I knew that speed would trump brute strength. And I got 5 munny.” Alex gloated.

Jenny just glared and blew a raspberry at him.

Ben laughed. “Glad you thought it was amazing. Also how many times have you all told Kira is adorable?” Ben asks curiously, having thought Kira was a silly ball of adorable joy.

“About, at least, twice a day. She does it intentionally or does a clutzy thing that is pretty cute.” Dan said, making Kira blush in frustration.

“It doesn't happen all the time!” Kira defended.

“Listen, I’ve barely known you for a day Kira and even I know it probably happens all the time.” Ben chuckles. “Anyways I should probably explain the whole ‘summoning Nobodies’ thing correct?”

“That would be nice to know.” Dan said.

“Okay so, just like Zeke I was given the ability to summon Nobodies, as well as have all fourteen Organization weapons. But the drawbacks are I can’t learn magic like normal Keybladers can, but I have ways around that if I think about it enough, and there’s the whole…” Ben takes a deep breath. “Hearing voices in my head.” Ben explains. “And no, there not the usual voices in my head due to past depression, no. Whenever a Nobody is around, whether I summon it or it’s just an ambient thing, because I have a heart I start hearing them ask where their hearts are...which in numbers can get really annoying or with the Twilight Thorn sounding like if a Giant decided to ask something in a giant fucking echo chamber...you get the point…” He grumbles, rubbing his head gently at the faint pain of a headache.

“Sounds like a huge pain.” Alex said.

“Don’t worry, I have had voices in my head before.” Ben says offhandedly. “Yeah...nothing like having half a dead heart before coming to Equestria...isn’t life grand sometimes?”

“Well that’s the burden of power. It isn’t just swooping in and saving people.” Jenny said.

“No no I mean literally before I even met God himself.” Ben says. “Remember when everything was going to hell back on Earth? I was in the middle of my school library thinking that the ‘End of the World’ was boring as piss. Then I learned that because of….circumstances my heart was half dead…”

“Wow, that had to be ruff dude.” Alex said. “You seem fine right now.”

“That’s because I accepted my sins...in my Mark of Mastery exam.” Ben explains.

“Oh! So you’re a Master like us?” Kira said.

“Yep. And with me, myself and I here.” Ben explains before summoning Reunion. “I finally have a full healthy heart with five happy girlfriends back home. Oh and also Reunion...the ‘me, myself, and I’ isn’t just a joke, Reunion is literally me if you didn’t hear me tell Luxu that.”

“So that’s why it doesn’t feel like a normal keyblade.” Alex said. “And five girlfriends huh? Looks like he got you beat by one Lan.” He said with a smirk.

“For now.” Jenny said with a matching smirk, and Lan’s displeasure.

“Listen how about we not compare harems and just be happy we have people that love us for who we are alright?” Ben asks honestly. “It doesn’t matter how many girls we have, as long as you and your lover(s) are happy then that’s fine.” Ben says while putting a hand near his heart. “God knows I’m happy to have girls that love me…” He says gently with a warm smile.

“Yeah, I agree with you there.” Lan said.

“Ditto. I may not have a harem like the two of you, but I’m happy with my Pinkie. I’m sure Dan can say the same about Rainbow.” Alex said, with Dan coughing and looking away.

“Okay so besides our love lives how about we talk adventures, I’m pretty sure I have the most to talk about since I went inside a Celestial Being’s hollowed out skull.” Ben says, already feeling like he’s going to be great friends with the Foretellers.

Eclipse yawned and stretched awake as he rolled out of bed. “Man, these beds are nice.” He walked over to Oathkeeper, her body still bent and dented. “Listen Oath, I-”

I’m sorry.

“...What?”

I said I’m sorry. I...I was so caught up in Oblivion and trying to get you ready so we can go get him back that I-I forgot that you are hurting to. I ignored it because I wanted my brother back. I ignored my Wielder. I ignored you.

“Oath, there is nothing to be sorry for. I would act the same way and you know Oblivion sure as hell would. You're worried about not only your brother, but your twin. You are his light, and he is your darkness. You need each other, help each other, and despite your arguments I can tell you love each other. I...I just wish I could have made peace with my darkness so we could have him back, I miss the guy already.” Eclipse says looking out the window.

.....There might be a way…. But it’s risky and goes against one of the many rules us keyblades follow.

After hearing Oathkeeper’s plan, Eclipse smiles. “Well, I was never one for tradition anyways. We can do it, after we get you repaired, and I keep my promise to X and open that orphanage, at least get the building plans written so it can be worked on while we’re away.”

Are you sure? If the plan fails, you could lose both me and Oblivion. Though Oblivion would be free from your darkness, you could lose the ability to wield a keyblade forever.

“After the shit I put you two through, consider it a favor payed, k?” Eclipse says calmly. “I may never get over the life I had taken, but I can help others live theres. That is the jist what X told me, and I’ll stick to it, even for you two.”

And that is why you could wield us. Oathkeeper said with happiness in her voice.

Huxley walked into the room with all of Zeke’s wives. “What up everybody?” Huxley asked.

“You know it’s rude to walk into a bedroom without knocking.” Twilight said.

“I did knock nobody answered.” Huxley said as they looked at him “Anyway would it be okay to talk to Zeke alone.

“She’s in the shower.” Rune said, giggling. “If you came ten minutes sooner~”

“Fine I’ll wait outside.” Huxley said walking outside. “Tell me when she’s decent!” Huxley said standing by the outside door.

Huxley waited outside the room for ten or twelve minutes before Zeke came out… wearing short-shorts and a tight top. “Damnit Rune…” She muttered.

“Whats up Shanna.” Huxley joked. “Sorry I missed you coming back anyway how you feeling?” Huxley asked.

Zeke hit Huxley in the arm. “Still Zeke, but whatever. And thanks for asking… honestly, nervous, pregnant, obviously, and kinda hungry.”

“Well I think I have something to at least make you feel less bad about the whole situation.” Huxley said as he looked into the room “Could you ask your wives to give us some time alone...and not for that reason RUNE!” Huxley shouted at Zeke’s horny wife.

“We’ll be fine. Come on, lounge is just down the hall.” Zeke said as she led Huxley down the hall into a rather large library, complete with a large fireplace burning. “So what’s up?” Zeke asked as she took a seat.

“Promise to tell nobody, but you’re not the only one that’s been ‘cursed’.” Huxley said grabbing a glass of cold water.

“Cursed?”

“Let me show you” Huxley said pouring the glass over his head and becoming shorter “Gah that’s cold!” the feminine voice of Huxley said.

Zeke pulled Huxley’s hood off. “...Well…so your a b cup?”

“That’s not the point here also D cup actually.” Huxley said opening his cloak to let his boobs out “Look during my trip two important things happened. One, I kicked Core off earth with a genie wish,”

“Hacks.” Zeke said. “Genie's are hacks.”

“Look it means no more of your family will try to kill us. And the second thing was I fell into a cursed pool and can turn into a girl...I’m surprised it didn’t happen when we fell into the blood pool but anyway.”

“Is it a ‘change at will’ deal?”

“No it cold water turns me into a girl hot water turns me back sort of deal” Huxley said.

“Well, odd.”

“Yo, I was told that-” Ben cuts himself off at seeing Huxley. “Um...okay I should have knocked…”

“God damn it.” Huxley said facepalming

“So...how the fuck did Ranma get here?” Ben asks, pointing at Huxley.

“Hey Ben, whatcha doin?” Kira came into the scene, along with the other Foretellers. “Oh...well not entirely unexpected.”

Eclipse is walking around and see’s the crowd forming. “Hey guy’s what’s….oh….you to huh? Ah oh well.”

“I suppose we’ve all heard of Ranma half?” Ben asks curiously, completely ignoring Zeke’s terrible outfit.

“Yes and does anybody here know chinese?” Huxley asked as they all shook their heads. “Great.” Huxley said

Zeke scratched his head for a moment before summoning Discord. “You thinking what I’m thinking? She asked the chaos spirit.

One mass genderbend coming up! Discord flashed, and everyone, save for Zeke and Huxley, were engulfed in smoke… and they all noticed the difference, even their clothes were changed.

“Um…” Ben frowns before looking down. “C-cup? Eh, oh well.” He says nonchalantly, not really caring that he was now a woman. “Can I have my normal organization cloak back?” Ben frowns. “Mini skirts, or anything that doesn't go below your knees sucks total dick.” She frowns, fixing her crown.

Lan was silent, but walked up to a nearby mirror to look at ‘herself.’ “Hm… not bad. But first.” He grabbed a nearby hair tie and put his now long, black hair into a ponytail. “There, now my look is complete.”

“This is awesome!” Alex said, fondling his own B- cup boobs. “Hey, uh, I’ll be right back.” He scurried off.

Eclipse shouted out after Alex. “Wait till you get a period!” She said before sighing. “Not again….”

“I’d rather not know why you said ‘again’ but I have a feeling me and Lan are the only ones not that ‘worried’ or ‘scared’ about this.” Ben says with a frown. “God help me if Luna or any of my girlfriends find me like this…”

“Well, now you guys will know how we feel.” Jenny said, Flexing her arms. “Man, I’m jacked!”

“I ALREADY DO!” Shouted Eclipse exasperated.

“Zeke why did you do this?” Huxley asked.

“Two reasons.” She started. “One, now we all have been through the anime comedy cliche of being genderbent, and two… I was kinda curious.”

Huxley just grabbed a nearby newspaper and smacked Zeke “No, bad X-blade wielder turn everyone back”

Zeke rolled her eyes. “Fine. But… after Alex get’s back… I don’t wanna hear him scream. His fingers are, well, you can guess where those will be stuck at.”

“I’m okay with this, as long as I don't get a period again.” Eclipse shrugs. “Or go into heat...that’d suck.”

“Alright then.” Zeke raised Discord up and in another flash, everyone, but Zeke, Huxley and Eclipse, were back to normal. “So,anything we should discuss?”

Ben slightly frowned. “Ya know...I expected that to last longer but oh well.” Ben shrugs. “Anyways I came here to see how you were doing and whenever a meeting could be brought up. Remember I’ve got important things to talk about.”

“Is it as important as removing Core from all reflections of a world?” Huxley asked

“That reminds me.” Zeke said. “When you wished that, what was the wish exactly?”

“I wish Core was unable to step on any reflection of earth.” Huxley said. “I guess that could include worlds that where a part of earth like the land of dragons...maybe?” Huxley said confused.

“Then… he can’t set foot, but Heartless, Unversed, and other followers of his can… not much different honestly.”

“God damn it and just when I had a win too... anyway I also wanted to ask what's with Oblivion?” Huxley asks.

“Well, you still do, we now know that genies can affect Core… so we should try and find them. Also, what about Oblivion?”

“Well when I tried to use it last it was white.” Huxley explained.

“For a second there I thought you were talking to me.” Eclipse chuckles nervously.

“Why would I be asking you? It’s not like you had anything to do with it being white...right?” Huxley said as he looked at Eclipse.

“I hope not…but there is a problem with my reflection of Oblivion.”

“What happened.” Ben asks with a frown, now wanting to know what happened to Oblivion.

“Well…he...damn it I'm just going to say it. My darkness swallowed him.”

“Congratulations.” Ben frowns. “Now if I may so kindly ask...how in the name of fuck does that happen?”

“When you have a heart that is tearing itself apart as we speak, weird shit happens...all I know is Oathkeeper is both pissed and depressed at the same time. Plus I can not summon Oblivion at all right now.” Eclipse retorts

“Damn…” Ben frowns. “Well...if you need any help in solving that we’re all here for ya.”

“I have a plan, but I promised Oathkeeper I wouldn't tell anyone about it. Sorry.”

“No need to be sorry. I understand.” Ben nods. “Everyone’s got to do things on their own. But again, we’re here to help in any way that’s within our power.”

“Damn strait!” Alex said, with the rest of his team nodding in agreement.

“Admit it Alex, you just like my horse ass right now.” Eclipse said with a eye roll.

“Hmm? You haven’t turned back to normal yet?” He taunted. “I thought you naturally looked like a sissy.”

“Don't make me summon Oath to kick your ass. She may be dented, but she will still take you on any day lover boy.” Eclipse smirked.

“Okay you two, how about we not fight? Eclipse has probably the worst situation out of all of us right now. So how about we calm down and not fight?”

“I was messing around about fighting, take it easy. I won't be fighting with Oath until she is repaired.” Eclipse says.

“Hmm. Whatever. I guess I shouldn’t have picked a fight.” Alex said.

“Anyways…” Zeke cut in. “Eclipse, in terms of Keyblades, if Oathkeeper is out of commission and Oblivions is… whatever is up with him, I might be able to help.” She offered.

Eclipse shook her head “Sorry, but fighting with any blade other than those two would just….seem wrong.”

“You forget one thing though,” Zeke said as two Oathkeepers appeared in his hands. “Multiverse, and multiple.” The oathkeeper blades were not bent, nore damaged at all. “It’s still her, just a different body. I guess Oblivion was only affected largely because the Keychain was affected.”

“I guess… It’ll work but it still seems wrong for some reason.” Eclipse admits.

Zeke tossed the two Oathkeepers to Eclipse, and he tried talking to them to hear Oathkeepers voice. Don't worry so much Eclipse, it is still me. Keyblades and their reflections work differently than others. We all share a mind, so while I am wielded by say Zeke, I will still be with you at the same time.

“Okay, that's some stress off my back.” Eclipse says with a sigh.

“Why are you still a girl? By the way I just noticed this now.” Huxley said.

“The way gender bending spells work is this: First, the change is normally temporary unless said person doesn't want to change. Second, if the time limit is up, the spell cancels unless as I said, the person doesn't want it to end. I am okay with it for now so no harm done.”

Zeke took the bent Oathkeeper. “How to fix you?” She muttered.

“Magic?” Huxley asks as everybody looked at her “What? It’s the obvious solution...I think”

“A Keyblade forge.” X speaks though Zeke. “Making one though it’s…not easy…there was one that Mors, er, Lord Death used… wonder if he knows where it is?”

“How about the skyforge in Skyrim? That might be a keyforge?” Huxley asks

“I’d have to see.”

“For some reason I thought the Cooper Clan would know something about a Keyblade forge…” Ben frowns. “Anyone know else know about Sly Cooper?”

“Played the hell out of them.” Zeke said.

“Yay! Someone else that knows about the game.” Ben smiles.

Zeke’s eyes went wide. “Dude, we can go to that world!”

“Then get robbed by rocket racoon.” Huxley says sarcastically.

“How fuckind dare you!” Ben says, sounding insulted here. “The Cooper clan is nothing like common thieves, and no they are not Rocket Racoon...I think I saw him when I went to Knowhere…” Ben says with a little thought. “I think there was a tree that said ‘I am Groot’...eh oh well.” Ben shrugs.

“So you saw the Guardians of the Galaxy” Huxley said

“Kind of. I at least remember the racoons name.” Ben says honestly. “Marvel Comics makes good hero’s.”

“Why do I have the feeling Elzin has something that would piss us off like them turning Captain America into a nazi or something stupid like that.” Huxley said

“Ya know...if Superman can be written as a Russian then I wouldn’t be surprised.” Ben sighs out. “Fan fiction writers have also tried that whole thing...oh no…” Ben mutters as his eyes widened. “Oh no...nonono….fan fictions are probably real...”

“Certainly feels like that some days….” Eclipse says with a mane flip. “Oh no….it's started…”

“Not even Core will prepare us for some of that weird shit…” Ben frowns. “If we meet Core...can we murder all of Sonic the Hedgehog reflections? That one thing has created too many shitty fan fictions….even if there are possibly good ones…”

“And have us sonic 06….” Eclipse says depressed. “I remember when those games were good...played a couple in a arcade…”

“Let’s not completely break the fourth wall here guys. We’re getting paid after all.” Kira said.

“That depends on what we’re being paid for, but fine.” Ben says.

“Good now back to the conversation of keyblade forges.” Huxley said.

“We’ll have to speak with Lord Death about the forge.” Zeke says, quickly grabbing Unum and leading the group to the mirror in the council room in Lord Death’s seat. “I keep forgetting the damn code…” She muttered.

“Hold on.” Ben says while summoning his sitar and a gentle fog covered the mirror.

“No spontaneous singing in the council room.” Zeke says.

“I wasn’t going to.” Ben says before writing the code to call Lord Death.

“Yeah right and I’m a boy at the moment” Huxley said.

“And there.” Ben says simply before the numbers ‘42-42-564’ on the fogged up mirror. “And if I did it right then he should be appearing.”

A sudden flash of light showed on the mirror before a small boxed screen showing Lord Death’s masked face appeared. “Howdy, how’s it going?” Lord Death asked.

“It’s nice to meet you Lord Death.” Ben says with a smile.

“Sup” Huxley said casually.

“Nice to see you again. Lord Death.” Lan said.

Eclipse kept quiet during the introductions.

“Mors, X said you know of a Keyblade forge, we need to repair a damaged Keyblade and maybe learn how to make more.” Zeke said.

Lord Death scratched his masks chin. “Yes, I remember. Well, bad news is that after the world broke apart into many, I have no idea where those forges ended up, good news, they are indestructible… bad news, you can put the fire out and take it apart and scatter them.”

“I believe one of them ended up in the province of Skyrim in Cyrodiil.” Huxley said.

“I have no idea what that place is.”

“It’s in a world named Nern. Hopefully we can find it to repair Oathkeeper.” Eclipse said.

“Huh… I think… let me remember… Uh… Maybe… was it a place mainly inhabited by elves? Two in particular?”

“Mainly yes, however humans are also a majority.” Eclipse informed Death.

“I believe the… what did those two go by… Snow elves and … Dwemer? Yes, those two races made the majority of Keyblade forges in the past before the world split apart. If you are to find parts to a Keyblade forge, it’s there, or one still intact and not taken apart.”

“Well we have two places to go first a place with warm water so I can stop being a girl then Skyrim.” Huxley said as they all looked at him

“Oh! Yes that was a place that had one that was older than I am!” Lord Death said happily. “I used it back when I was just a smithing apprentice. If it’s still there, try and bring it to me, the art of forging Keyblades is likely known only by me.”

“Let’s see if I have a DTL to Skyrim.” Huxley said looking at his book. “Nope sorry” Huxley said disappointed.

“To know for certain if it’s a Keyblade forge, just tap the fire with a Keyblade and watch the flames turn into liquid fire. No, not lava, literal fire as a liquid. It’s rather amazing to see.”

“I think I got this.” Zeke said, summoning X and pointing him up at a wall. “You know what to do.” The X-blades tip shot out a beam of light and a large DTL opened up. “Never fails.”

“Thanks Lord death. May your heart be your guiding key or whatever the saying is.” Huxley said running head first into the portal before coming back out. “Umm the portal leads us to a mountain.”

The others quickly followed, and were standing in snowy mountain. “Well… Weird.” Zeke said, the snow not affecting her all too much. “Not as cold as I should be… the hell?”

“Why have you come here?” A voice called trembling the ground as everybody looked to see a dragon stand there.

“Hello…” Ben says nervously, not sure if he should summon any weapons because of the giant dragon.

“You are Paarthurnax, last of the Dovah?” Huxley asked.

“Yes how did you know?”

“We are not from this world and we were looking for a keyblade forge.” Huxley said.

“You are looking for the Skyforge then.” Paarthurnax said.

“Great thanks,” Huxley said levitating. “Race you!” she said before Paarthurnax spoke.

“YOU WILL NOT STEAL THE SKYFORGE OUTSIDERS!” He roared as the world trembled.

“Huxley, sit!” Zeke said, summoning Discord and using the chaos spirit’s magic to slam Huxley into the ground. “Idiot…” Zeke muttered as she turned to the dragon. “Please forgive my friend, he’s a hard headed ass… anyway, as you can see, we have Keyblades. We just want to look at the Skyforge, and if you know of another Keyblade forge, one that’s either in wrong hands, or in pieces, please, tell. We don’t mean any harm.”

“Hmm maybe I misjudged you outsiders. I have been guarding this world for so long and the last outsiders that have come here tried to slay me but couldn’t due to not being of the Dovah or being Dovahkiin.” Paarthurnax said.

“Forgive my bluntness but has Alduin returned?” Huxley asked

“How do you know of my brother?” Paarthurnax asked before retracting his question. “It matters not, the answer is yes my brother has returned and was slain by the Dovahkiin years ago.” Paarthurnax said.

“This is kinda over my head.” Zeke admitted. “So, who or what is this Dovahkiin?”

“Dragonborn the main protagonist of Skyrim” Huxley said before asking “You’ve never played Skyrim before?”

“How about we ask the dragon?” Eclipse says. “Excuse me Paarthurnax, Would you mind telling me and my companions who and what the dragonborn is? It might be vital to our mission.”

“She is a Dark elf.” Paarthurnax explained

“Thanks! Any idea on her where abouts?”

“No I do not keep track of her.” Paarthurnax said

“Well with our luck we’ll run into her.” Huxley said

“Thank you for your time Paarthurnax. Now, we should be off.” Eclipse says with a bow.

“Race you to Whiterun” Huxley said flying off.

“You little!” Eclipse shouts summoning her Keyblade gliders and using her metal wings to catch up.

“Thank you…” Ben says to the dragon with a bow before summoning his keyblade glider and hopping on. “Well we better follow those two before they hurt themselves...or more importantly others…” Ben sighs out, waiting for his companions to saddle up before following Eclipse and Huxley.

“Yeah.” Zeke said, summoning X, to which Paarthurnax screamed. “The fuck!”.

“Is that the X-Blade?” Paarthurnax screamed

“Yeah, long story.”

“Hey did the dragon just scream?” Huxley said flying back curious.

“Yeah, do you know about the X-blade?” Zeke asked Paarthurnax.

“Only in legends passed down by the gods themselves.” Paarthurnax said

“Then how do you know what it looks like?” Huxley asked.

“Mystical things that only dragon’s can understand probably.” Ben shrugs.

“Makes about as much sense as anything else does.” Jenny said saddling on Ursus.

“Well Eclipse probably beat me to the town but she’s a horse so probably not allowed in so we should hurry up before she causes a scene.” Huxley said flying away.

“Yeah we probably should.” Ben nods, following Huxley quickly.

“This coming from the guy who’s literally flying…” Zeke muttered, turning X into a glider and following after them.

“Let’s not get left behind.” Lan said as he and his team followed.

As the group flew down the mountain Huxley caught up to Eclipse, who was waiting on the ground some ways from the town gates. “Hey maybe we should rethink part of the plan”

“Like?” Zeke asked, landing.

“Well we have a magic talking horse and I’m guessing they won’t let us in with her so we need to split into two groups I know a second forge that might be a keyblade one.” Huxley said.

“Leave her by the stables and rape happens.” Zeke commented, causing Eclipse to wince.

“So we splitting up or what? Cause to be perfectly honest I think only Huxley knows where everything is.” Ben says honestly, wondering if they’ll have to split up or something.

“Just don’t leave me in the stables, for all we know with me being a pony it could be compatible, not to mention I don’t have plans on losing a female virginity any time soon.” Eclipse says, slightly terrified now.

As they formulated a plan a khajiit walked up to them. “M’aiq knows many things. Forge is in two pieces.” He said as everyone ignored him as he walked off.

“Did somebody say something?” Huxley asked.

“Random cat person talked about a forge in town. Probably just rambled about the actual town blacksmith.” Ben says, not really caring about some random person just saying something random.

“Fair enough.” Huxley said going back to the plan.

“I feel like he said something important. But we don’t have the time to chase him down.” Dan said.

“Okay so the lunar forge is to the northwest of Whiterun passed a small pool of water... maybe I should head in town and buy a map to show you better?” Huxley proposed.

“I should know the way. I fu r da my way around for many hours….why couldn’t I finish that?” Eclipse says, confused.

“We no speak dragon remember?” Ben says honestly. “But yes buying a map is a must, even if someone know’s the way.”

“Okay I’ll be back.” Huxley said walking towards the town.

“So...what now? Foretellers? Any ideas?” Eclipse asked while they waited.

“Well, considering how our groups would be split up. I’d say Huxley, Zeke, Kira and I are one group. Eclipse, Ben, Jenny, Alex, and Dan are the other. But which of us should go to Whiterun?” Lan said.

“Well, I can be counted out of whatever group goes to the city. I don’t think this is a modded Skyrim so companions who are not Human, Mer, or Beastman would be left in the stable instead of brought in.” Eclipse shrugged

“So my group gets the forge while your group checks to see if my hunch is correct.“ Huxley said, returning with a map.

“That was fast.” Zeke said.

“There was a band of Khajiit who sold me a map.” Huxley said handing the map to the pony. “Don’t eat this.” Huxley joked.

“Don’t tempt me…” Eclipse says, rolling with the joke. “So, time to split up?

As group A went into the town a dark elf gave them a glare before heading into the breeze home “Damn bandits thinking they can come to my city.” She said getting her dragonbone armor and weapons.

“Okay the Skyforge should be just here.” Huxley said as they saw guards standing in front of the companions home.’

“I feel like those guards could know something.” Kira said.

“Hey is there a problem? We need to talk to the Companion leader.” Zeke said

“Oh you’ve got here Bandits.” A woman said as the guards readied their weapons.

“Were not-” Huxley was cut off by a crossbow bolt to the shoulder “bitch!” Huxley said pulling out the bolt and casting cura.

“Looks like we’re doing this the hard way.” Lan said, summoning his keyblade.

“FUS RO DAH!” She shouted, knocking Lan to the ground.

“Don’t kill them!” Zeke said as a sword flew by her face.

“Hey you're attacking a pregnant lady here!” Huxley said as another crossbow bolt entered her shoulder. “Bitch screw this ‘Gilgamesh!’ “She called out as she grew six more arms.

“Well that’s new.” The woman said as she was punched by two fists.

“Goblin punch.” Huxley called out before turning to Zeke “You just going to stand there or you going to help us fight?” Huxley asked as Zeke summoned a random keyblade

“If they’ll let me,” Zeke said, taking a swing at a one of the companions that was attacking with a large hammer. Before Zeke’s Keyblade could meet the hammer, another Keyblade appeared and crossed it’s attack. “They won’t…”

“Hold on!” Huxley said as he summoned seven more weapons. He quickly despatched of some of the companions non-lethally .

“Murdering Bandits.” The Dragonborn screamed as Zeke knocked her out with her keyblade.

Zeke walked up to Huxley and smacked her upside the head. “How… how in the multiverse is it, that I was raised by murderers, but you always managed to pick fights with everyone you meet?”

“Hey they attacked us first...you were there weren't you paying attention?”

“And you didn’t think to say ‘we’re not bandits, we come peacefully’ and leave fighting as a last resort?”

“We did she shot me with a crossbow bolt and I said screw it.”

“I’ve been shot with BUCKSHOT and still settled a fight with words!”

“Okay, let’s all relax!” Kira yelled. “We shouldn’t start out like this! We come in peace!”

“Oh great more guards let’s try to surrender this time...” Huxley said as they raised their arms and Huxley turned back from her Gilgamesh form.

As the group surrendered they were escorted into the palace along with the dragonborn.

As they were presented before the jearl, he sighed. “Sonna, why have you started yet another brawl?”

“They’re bandits!” The dragonborn replied.

“If they were, then why is it that guards and people alike saw you attack first while these people simply walked in? This is the tenth incident in a single month. What are you trying to prove?” Sonna was silent. “Figured as much.”

“Might I add we have a pregnant lady in our group.” Huxley said as Sonna’s face reddened.

“That would be me.” Zeke said. “Less than a month, but it’s growing.”

“Sorry about knocking your guards out.” Huxley said as the jarl looked at her.

“Since it was not your group that started this, we will only charge you a fine for the injuries to those who were hurt, as for Sonna…no longer are you my thane.”

Sonna hung her head. “Fair enough…”

“Why did you think we were bandits anyway?” Huxley asked.

“Well a few days ago this man in a mask and purple cloak told me of a group of bandits that would try to steal the Skyforge with strange key like swords” Sonna said.

The group narrowed their eyes at this information.

“So, Core has been here too.” Lan muttered.

“Your honor I would like to ask that you go easy on the Dragonborn here as she attacked under the influence of a Daedra.” Huxley said

“No idea what that is.” Zeke added. “I take it that’s this world’s term for Demons.”

“Yes it is, and why should I?” Jarl Balgruuf asked.

“Because this daedra's influence is powerful and stronger than Molag Bal.”

The jarls eyes narrowed. “With robes like those… are you necromancers?”

“No I just like the look I can’t summon anything but my sword... anyway His influence is stronger than any of the known Deadra and he is cunning, he almost made me lead an army on her,” Huxley said pointing to Zeke. “He made me believe she was worse than any deadra and a vile heart as evil as darkest pit of Oblivion...So I ask you Jarl Balgruuf give her mercy she was not in her right mind.” Huxley said.

Zeke rolled her eyes. “Again, how did you not get born into my family with anger and gullibility that high?”

“Not now I’m trying to do some good for a woman who saved the world.” Huxley said giving her a death glare.

“Fine, but you still owe me an apology for all of that crap.”

“Later.”

“Well, you are all clearly outsiders in this land with your speech, weapons… and pour taste in clothing. Fine, Sonna is my thane again, and as punishment for her actions, she is to act as a guide for your group during your stay.” The jarl said, waving his hand. “And Sonna, get over it, she said no.”

“Thank you Jarl Balgruuf.” Sonna said. The group walked outside, where the dragonborn turned to them. “So… sorry about that… shooting you in the shoulder twice thing… And the shouts…so where are you all from, I’ve never seen clothing like that in Skyrim nor weapons.”she said mumbling something about mods

“Wait did you say something about Mods?” Huxley said catching that

“Uhh… that’s from whenever I spent time with the prince of madness… We’re kinda drinking buddies.”

“Oh yeah how is the champion of Kavatch?” Huxley asked as she wondered.

“Still king, and mourning his loss... wait how do you know that?”

“I played Oblivion.” Huxley said as she dragged her and the group back to her home.

“Okay Keyblades in a skyrim that hasn’t been modded referencing the Oblivion event as if it was a game are you guys from earth?” Sonna asked.

“Wait… you’re a survivor?” Zeke asked.

“Wow, didn’t expect that. This is the first time I’ve meet a survivor that didn’t have a keyblade.” Kira said, with her brother agreeing.

“Second for me.” Zeke said. “So, you’re like a friend of ours, you were reborn as a dark elf?”

“Actually I asked to become this I wasn’t reborn...I just was teleported in at the wrong place and just so happened to ask to be the dovahkiin.” She explained. “That’s why my name isn’t all dark elfey” she said.

“I’m surprised that another survivor was in this reflection. So, what was that stuff the jarl said about a girl saying no?”

“Reflection?” She asked ignoring the girl part.

“Ever hear of a multiverse?” Huxley asked

“Yes?” Sonna asked

“Basicly that.” Huxley said as she was smacked by a scroll.

“Don’t just leave it off like that.” Kira said. “Reflections are better explained by other versions of a world. For example both Zeke and Huxley are from a world called Equestria, but they are different from each other even though they share the same name. As in a Reflection of each other.”

“Ah.” Sonna said. “That makes sense. So, I remember you guys talking about the Skyforge? Is there something you want to smith?”

“Basicly we believe the forge is part of an ancient object known as a Keyblade Forge and we need to bring it together or at least use part of it to reforge something...I wasn't paying attention” Huxley said as she was hit again by a scroll.

“Please don’t use my scrolls to hit people.”

“Anyway before we go may I have some hot water?” Huxley asked

“There is some in the fire boiling.” Sonna said.

Huxley poured some into a cup and dumped it onto her head “Gah hot hot hot!” Huxley said as he changed back into a man.

“What?” Sonna asked.

“Long story.” Zeke said. “And again, what did the jarl say about a girl?”

Sonna’s face turned red and she looked said. “Well, there’s this girl I like and we dated, she’s been with me since before I did this whole Dragonborn business… and she won’t marry me…”

“Bumer, not like you know anything about that miss wont say no to marrying sixteen wives” Huxley said as Zeke surrounded him with keyblades.

“You try looking them right in the eyes and have them get sad. Unlike your world, my world they all have eyes you can’t look away from.” Zeke said, disbanding the Keyblades.

“Why sixteen though?” Sonna asked.

“It’s legal. And it wasn’t all at once… it was in groups…”

“Anyway I know the feeling try being dumped by somebody you didn’t even know you were dating stings.”

Everyone gave Huxley a look. “That… is just pathetic... “

“Hey atleast I can turn a girl down...unlike now when I can’t turn two girls down... yeah that light thing you stabbed me with must have done something to me.” Huxley said.

“You mean you can feel your emotions now?” Zeke deadpanned.

“No it's like I can’t say no...” Huxley said.

“Don’t worry Huxley. We all succumb to that feeling.” Lan said placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Anyway…” Sonna said, cutting in. “She went off for a while to rebuild her family castle now that we killed her father, talk about daddy issues there…anyway, I should go with you to the Skyforge, the others likely either want a rematch, or something.” Sonna said as she led the group to the Skyforge, where some of the members met them. “Hey…so, you all still mad?”

“That depends, are we able to get a rematch?” Aela spoke.

“No, sorry.” Zeke said

“Then yes we are.” Aela said.

“Get over it we are just here to improve the forge.”

“And how will you do that?” Farkas asked

“With these.” Zeke said, summoning Master Keeper. “They are more than they appear.”

“Neat trick are they as good as real swords?” Aela asked.

“Better.” Zeke walked over to the side of the companions building, and with one swing, made a four foot long hole in it, where you could see the inside of the place. “They got quite the kick.”

“You're paying for that hole you know” Huxley said as one of the companions asked to pay for the hole.

“Duh.” Zeke replied. “I don’t break what I can’t fix or repay, speaking of.” Zeke summoned DIscord. “Repair.” In a flash of purple, the hole was gone, and the wall was fixed.

“Well that fixed that” Sonna said. “Anyway about that forge.”

The companions looked at each other. “Well, you’d have to talk with Gray-Mane about messing with it, but I have a request first.” Aela asked.

“Let me guess, you want a keyblade or to fight one of us” Huxley guessed

“Close.” She said, pointing as Zeke. “I want her to participate in an archery duel, well, we’ll be using targets, not each other, but still.”

“Why me?” Zeke asked.

“You got the eyes of a hunter. I can tell you were born and raised to fight.”

Zeke sighed. “Well, you’re not wrong… Fine.”

As Aela and Zeke walked around to the back, the two were handed three arrows and a hunting bow. Three targets were placed in random places. One was strung above the skyforge, another atop the roof of the companions hall, and the last was across from the two. Aela drew her bow, and the arrow landed center of the target. Zeke did the same and the arrow landed center, next to Aela’s, earning a surprised look from her. She drew again and fired at the target on the roof, landing another hit in the center. Zeke repeated, and her arrow landed next to Aela’s in the center also. The people were whispering at this point, impressed with Zeke’s accuracy. “Nice shot.” Huxley called out.

“Thanks.” Zeke replied.

“Last shot,” Aela said. “Winner takes the boon.” Zeke wondered what exactly she meant, but Aela shot the last arrow dead inside the center. Zeke took her time aiming the final shot, she fired, and shot the arrow into Aela’s, and it was stuck in the end of her arrow. “Well then…” Aela said, shocked. “Tie.”

“Whoa! A total Brave moment!” Kira said amazed.

“Well anyway with that done let's upgrade the forge then meet up the talking horse.” Huxley said.

“Talking horse?” Sonna asked.

Eclipse lead team B across the plain, only a few mudcrabs getting in their way. “So, anyone prepared for bandits?” Eclipse said as they got within eyesight of the forge.

“Yep.” Ben says while summoning Sharpshooter.

“We’re all warriors, so we should be fine. But don’t let your guard down.” Jenny said summoning Ursus. Alex and Dan did the same.

Eclipse summoned both oathkeepers. “Well then….Let’s do...this ohmygod not now!” Eclipse says, some panic entering her voice.

“What’s wrong?” Ben asks worriedly, wondering why Eclipse suddenly started to panic.

“Eh….Erm….it’s spring….I’m a horse...and a mare at that….line up the pieces…..” Eclipse says, looking around franticly.

“I hate you…” Ben mutters before waving a hand and suddenly two Snipers appeared next to Eclipse. “There, if anything tries to either attack you or molest you my fine Snipers will keep you safe alright you horny mare?”

“Fuck you!...but thanks.” Eclipse says, embarrassed.

“This is so strange.” Dan muttered.

“Is that horse talking?” One of the bandits asked.

“Who care’s, that good meat.” Another bandit said.

“What are you two idiots standing around KILL THEM!” The chief said, before he suddenly had a strange arrow lodged in his head before he fell over, blood pouring down his wound.

“So who else want’s an arrow to the head before they can even blink?” Ben asks, himself and his two Snipers already taking aim at the bandits and ready to kill them in a moments notice.

“And what was that about meat?” Eclipse asked, appearing behind them in a blur, his eye having a slight red tint as both blades pressed against them.

“Eclipse!” Ben shouts. “Calm yourself damn it!”

Eclipse shakes his head as his eye goes back to normal “Thanks!”

“No problem.” He says while the Snipers knock out the bandits quickly enough with their giant crossbows. “Christ...anywhosits...let’s get going before bad things happen.” Ben says quickly.

“Agreed. We should avoid any more conflict if possible.” Dan said. “Hopefully no other bandits would be foolish enough to run with our group.” The group agreed and headed on their way.

After a few more bandits easily taken out, the group finds the lunar forge. “If I remember, it only works on nights both moons are out.”

“So we just wait here till night time?” Alex asked.

“And I don’t know the Song of Time…” Ben frowns. “I have an instrument but I don’t know the song...oh well, we might as well wait.”

“Well at least we have some down time now.” Jenny said sitting on the ground. “There were a bunch of bandits on the way here. Do we look like nobles or what?”

“You never played Skyrim did you?” Eclipse said. ”They would attack someone wearing nothing but underwear and holding a stick.”

“I kind of thought of it as ‘they’re bandits, they’ll attack whoever cause fuck it’.” Ben shrugs.

“All I’m saying is that if I were a bandit I would be targeting the big dogs with the big pockets. Considering this is reality and all.”

“But those people also have trained guards normally.” Eclipse says with a shrug.

“That would just make it all the more fun to steal.” Jenny said with a smirk. “Not that I know anything about that.”

“Can we stop thinking about that please? We’re hero’s, not bandits.” Ben frowns.

“Or are we?” Jenny said with a smirk.

“Dun dun duuun!” Eclipse says jokingly.

Ben took a deep breath. “Why?” He asks breathlessly, motioning a hand to everyone. “Just...just why?”

The rest of the group laughed. As time passed they all just made idle small talk about various subjects. Then came night fall, and the two moons rose to the sky. The metal in the forge had started to glow white as the moonlight touched the forge, causing power to practically bleed off the mantle.

“Whoa, that’s trippy.” Alex said, breaking the silence.

“Okay where’s the hidden monsters?” Ben frowns, not knowing what might happen but calling out that something might appear suddenly.

“No monster...at least, none in the games. So, if no one else is going to…” Eclipse says, summoning one of his keyblades and sticking it into the fire to see what happens. The fire turns liquid as soon as the Keyblade touches the flames. “Well, there’s our answer.” Eclipse says, marveling at the liquid flame.

“Hooray, we found a piece.” Ben says. “Now...how in the hells are we going to move this?”

“Magic?” Jenny asked.

“...well shit. We didn’t think things through.” Eclipse says with a frown.

“Well…” Ben takes a deep breath. “How the hell are we going to start tugging this thing all the way to where Zeke and the others are? Cause I don’t think having a Twilight Thorn rip this thing from it’s foundation and lug it with us is a good idea…”

“I don’t know, but I do know that I’m going somewhere private for the next ten minutes. Call me when you get an idea.” Eclipse says, trying to hide her blush as she walks slowly away from the group.

“Hold on…” Ben sighs out before snapping his fingers, two Assassins following Eclipse underground while the Snipers also follow along to guard Eclipse. “There, two extra guards just in case.”

Eclipse nods in thanks before they hear. “HOW STUPID ARE THESE FUCKEN BANDITS?!” Followed by shouts of male agony.

“Fucking hell…” Ben grumbles, glad to know Eclipses guards are doing what they were told.

The group was sitting in the companion hall drinking all except for Zeke who was pregnant and Huxley who didn’t like the taste. Eclipse was surrounded by the children and a few grown women, being covered in pets while she had her face buried in her hoofs, muttering something akin to ‘stupid, nice, soft pet’ The Foretellers where drinking some booze. “Hey I had an idea.” Huxley said to Zeke.

“What is it?”

“Well you need the Keyblade forge right?” Huxley said

“Duh.”

“Well you could ask Sonna what group she joined and if it's the legion you can ask her to take you to General Tullius, who can help you take back this world from elf nazis.” Huxley said

“Well, if she can take me to the world’s leader(s) then that would make treaty and unity negotiations easier.”

“Hey Sonna, Zeke has a question for you.” Huxley called out as everybody looked at him.

“What's the question?” Sonna asked.

“First who’s the ruler of Skyrim?” Huxley asked.

“Elsif the Fair, why?” Sonna said.

“Okay we were wondering if you could take us to meet General Tullius we may have a solution for the Thalmor.” Huxley said.

“That would be great, bastards have been trying to take Skyrim back under their control for years now.” Sonna said.

“So we should head out to Solitude.” Huxley said.

“Can we head out tomorrow? Unum wants to sightsee.” Zeke replied as Unum nodded.

“I stay quiet an awful lot during these trips.” Unum said.

“Sorry Unum.” Ben says honestly. “But...sometimes there’s not really much to say sometimes. I should know.” He says honestly.

“Actually if we head out tonight we might make it tomorrow morning” Sonna said

“Fine… but I’m sleeping on the way there… not like that…”

“Might be bumpy.” Huxley said.

“Let’s get going.” Ben says. “But...where the hell is Solitude again?”

“Give me the map I bought and I’ll show you.” Huxley said as Eclipse handed him the map. “It’s here.” Huxley said pointing at the top of the map.

“Alright let’s get going.” Zeke said, knowing she would fall asleep during the ride.

“By the by...this randomly came to mind but did that dragon we first met sound like Mario to any of you?” Ben asks curiously, wondering why that random thought came up.

“He is voiced by Mario’s voice actor so yes.” Huxley said as they left the Jorrvaskr.

“Ah, okay then.” Ben nods. “Didn’t know that.”

“Anyway let’s ride to Solitude.” Huxley said as Sonna went to the stable and got out her black horse.

“This is Shadowmere.” Sonna said as he got close to Eclipse.

‘You’re mane looks like lavender but smells like hay.’’ Shadowmere neighed.

“I don’t think you want to make an enemy.” Ben frowns, two snipers appearing in front of Eclipse.

Eclipse seems to be fighting herself to keep calm. “N-no need for the snipers...after all what’s the harm in a roll on the hay- I mean another traveling companion!” Eclipse chuckles nervously, her tail swishing slightly and a blush apparent on her face.

“Please don’t kill my horse. It’s going to take a week for him to respawn.” Sonna said.

“How about we all just calm down before I literally smack a bitch.” Ben frowns, glaring at Eclipse in this situation. “So calm down, the Snipers are staying up, and you’re not doing something stupid got it?”

Eclipse both nods in thanks and pouts at the same time as she simply crosses over and walks besides Shadowmere, whispering something in neighs in his ear with a small, horny smile. The Snipers are still hovering over Eclipse like the guards they were ordered to be.

“Why does that horse look like a heartless?” Zeke asked.

“So I take you kill you-know-who?” Huxley said.

“Yeah that was before I joined the legion though.” Sonna said.

“Right.” Huxley said as Zeke wondered who she killed.

“Who did she kill?” Zeke asked.

“Not important. But we really need you to play Skyrim or any elder scrolls game.” Huxley said.

Eclipse rubs her hoofs together excitedly as she summons her Keyblades. “Oh I am sooo going to pay for this in the morning, but so worth it! Stop!” She shouts, targeting the group and the nobodies, but leaving Shadowmere alone. She takes out the Nobodies and run with Shadowmere to the stables giggling like a schoolgirl. Sadly, the spell was not that powerful as Eclipse had other things on her mind.

“No bad Horny horse.” Huxley said grabbing Eclipse by the tail and dragging her out of the hay.

“NOO! It would have been over with! The heat would be over!”

“Do I need to send you back to Daybreak?” Huxley asked.

“No…” Eclipse pouts, all sense of masculinity thrown out the window due to this heat.

“Don’t make me send you to my worlds Twilight, she loves Unicorns.” Huxley said.

“Don’t tempt me….” Eclipse grumbles. “I’ll be good...just...let's get this done so I can go home to Luna...this heat sucks…”

As Sonna had said, a day by the carriage had them at the entrance of Solitude, where after a quick stop at the inn for food, the group made their way to The Blue Palace, to meet with the High Queen, and general Tullius.

“Hello High queen Elisif” Sonna said.

“Hello Sonna, who are these people with you?” Elisif asked.

“We’re basically emissaries for her empire.” Huxley said, pointing to a missing Zeke who was distracted by a voice coming from coming pelagius wing. ”Where’d Shanna go?” Huxley asked

“Is that a horse in the palace?” A random member of the court said.

Eclipse sighed, pissed after not having any true relief yet. “First of, I have a name, it’s Eclipse. Second, I’m a pony, not a horse, and third I am their guard in a way as I have enough power to probably kill everyone in this court without-”

“No bad pony.” Huxley said.

“Hiss...” Eclipse said.

“Sorry about her she’s pissy about the whole horse curse thing.” Huxley explained.

“Horse curse?”

“She pissed off Sheogorath and he turned her into a horse that’s always in heat.” Huxley said as he got a death glare by Eclipse.

“Anyway Sonna look for Shanna we need her here to do the thing, Sorry for bothering you we’ll comeback as a group.” Huxley said as they went down to see the Pelagius wing open. “That's not supposed to be open, you don’t think...” Huxley said as they heard Zeke's voice down there.

As they chased Zeke’s voice they wound up in wonderland. “There you guys are, this guy is awesome!” Discord’s voice spoke from Zeke.

“That’s not Zeke is it.”

“It’s Discord, and frankly this Sigy guy is a laughing stock!”

“Ah tell yeah nobody has been this fun sense Ah came and killed me self back after the oblivion crisis.” He said in a scottish accent.

“Great we got the Hero of Cyrodiil to deal with.”

“Ah lady nobody’s called me that in years.” Sheogorath said.

“D-do the thing with the dogs!” Discord asked as Flaming dogs fell from the sky. “Personally the ‘hotdog’ rain is a bit too literal for my taste, but this is still amazing. I’ve never met another being with so much raw chaos power.”

“Well he is the prince of madness.”

Eclipse meanwhile is keeping herself from jumping on the many deformed and crazy ‘horses’ for a roll in the hay. “Keep calm, keep calm, keep calm.” She repeats as she shakes in excitement.

DIscord chuckled. “Look, just let me have ten more minutes of fun and I’ll let Zeke go do her peace making thing and whatever. Oh, and I’ve been meaning to give you these.” WIth a snap of Zeke’s Discord controlled hand, Huxley, Ben, Eclipse, and Unum, were each holding one small gold token with Discord’s eye on it. “Think of it as a… logic free wish, kinda like a genie wish but not nearly as strong.”

“Give me that.” Huxley said grabbing Eclipse’s coin. “You will get it back when you aren't a horny horse.”

“Meany!”

“Hey I could use it to wish to get rid of my curse, but do you see me do it?” Huxley asked. “No.” He said

“Well it’s your wish, but It is limited, a genie is stronger than I believe it or not.”

“I think I’ll save it for later then.” Huxley said as he put his and Eclipse’s token away. “So when did you take over?”

“Walked by that room, and I was suddenly in control. With this much madness and chaos my own powers are very much amplified. Sadly I still am stuck as a Keyblade. Hope that will change in the future.”

“Neat.” Huxley said not getting any of that.

Disord spent his time having fun mostly and doing random chaos things, mostly to Eclipse and Huxley. When the time was up Sheogorath bid Discord farewell and asked hmi to visit again. As soon as they stepped out the door Zeke gained control again. “Well, that was kinda odd… still, was mostly funny. Especially when he turned Huxley into a ballerina.” Zeke chuckled.

“Whatever Shanna by the way you’re going to need to referred to as that to not confuse the queen.” Huxley said as Zeke just looked at him before using discord to spawn a bucket of cold water over his head “Ow you placed the bucket on the wrong side.” Huxley said rubbing his head.

“Fine, let’s finish this so we can all go home, cause Ben is lonely looking, Eclipse is horny, you’re clearly not having fun, and I just wanna see my kids.” Zeke said as they walked back to the High Queen.

“We're back we found our friend she was in the pelagius wing talking to a painting.”

“But there are no paintings in the pelagius wing.”

“Yes the painting of the old man with a beard and miss matched clothing”

“Anyway let's get back on point what did you want to talk to me about?” High queen Elisif asked

“Well Shanna here is actually the ruler of an empire and she wanted to aid your fight against the Thalmor.” Huxley said

“And how many of her forces are willing to aid us?” Elsif said as we all turned to Zeke.

“Our forces in term of soldiers are always growing, but a fair three hundred are still on standby for general defence. Though, ten special ones would do, sadly two of them are off on missions right now.” Zeke said.

“Your army is so small, yet you claim to be able to help us?” Elsif said.

“Size isn't everything.” Huxley said

“And each soldier could, can, and would take on entire platoons of your own without much effort from what I saw of the guards and the one’s training outside. If you want a demonstration I am more than willing to let some stress off, and no one would die by my blades.” Eclipse said casually.

“Well we would need a demonstration of that, but if it's true then we could use you in the upcoming battle to retake the imperial city from the thalmor.” General Tullius said.

“Say the word General and I can give you your demonstration.” Eclipse says, summoning both Oathkeepers to her side, keeping their tips pointed at the ground.

“Spellswords? Hmm. Very well, if you say that the opponents won’t be killed I say a test is in order.” General Tullius said.

“Shall we?” Eclipse said with a grin. The group was lead outside where the soldiers were training, being about a platoon not including recruits.

“Troops line up you're about to be tested a platoon vs a small horse cursed by a deadra.” The general said as the troops stood still unfazed by the fact the had to fight a small, gray horse.

“Wow stone cold warriors.” Huxley commented on as the general corrected him.

“Actually they're just in alert mode so they can’t act freely. They have to stay in line.” The General said.

“I have a feeling a few in the back are chuckling~” Eclipse says with a evil grin, both blades hovering around her. The men all marched on prepared to attack but were quickly defeated by the small gray horse.

To say it was funny was to say Pinkie Pie hates new people. Eclipse, before it even started, unsummoned one of the Oathkeepers and even turned off her scan, with promising to also not use any moves that would level the building. And still, the gray pony tore through their ranks. A reflect spell, a shocklock, and a frenzy of speed later, all 100 troops were groaning on the floor and Eclipse was just smiling. “Thanks for the warm up! Any of you ready for me actually trying?”

“That's enough you’ve made your point no need to humiliate my men any further.” The general said as Eclipse unsummoned the other Oathkeeper.

“Well that was fast.“ Lan said startling Huxley.

“Where did you guys come from?” Huxley asked.

“You left us in Whiterun... we used our keyblade rides to get here.” Lan said.

“So you saw that huh?” Eclipse said with a smirk.

“I’m surprised no one has phased through the floor yet…” Ben mutters, wondering how a world made by Bethesda was so normal.

“This is real life, not a game Ben.” Kira said.

“But it’s Bethesda…” Ben huffs. “Fine…” He sighs out.

“Don’t worry the bucket trick still works.” Sonna said as she remembered how she got through the whole thieves guild.

“I am so glad that even in real life...glitches still exist.” Ben chuckles happily.

“They don’t call the universe the ultimate computer without a reason.” Zeke says. “Everything glitches. God called the X-blade a rule breaker when he gave it to me.”

“Ha.” Ben laughs. “Glad to know things can still be weird in the funniest of ways.”

“Anyway can we get back on point?” General Tullius asked.

“Right now that we’ve shown you what the Keyblades can do, do you have faith in our plan to take Cyrodiil back from the Thalmor?” Huxley asked

“Well that was certainly a show, but you said the weapons can’t kill right?” Elsif the fair asked.

“They are driven by the wielders intent. Only if you wish to kill your enemy will they spill blood.” Zeke answered. “Makes getting the enemy troops captured alive easy.”

“Thats where the problem lies, if we have too many prisoners where would we put them all?” Elsif asked.

“Not to mention the current emperor is at the Imperial City right now and bringing him to Skyrim would be problematic as the last emperor was assassinated here a few years ago.” General Tullius said.

“We can take the prisoners to our world, plenty of room, plus we try and rehabilitate them. Give them the chance to live among the people again.” Zeke added.

“World?” Elsif asked.

“Oh right, technically were not from Nirn... just think of us as messengers of the divines.” Huxley said.

“Okay?” Elsif said confused.

“”We’ll catch you up after this war of yours is done and over with.” Zeke says.

“Trust me I’ve met Hermaeus Mora and I don’t think he knows about other worlds other than the realms of Oblivion or Nirn.” Sonna said.

“Are you following any of this?” Ben whispers to Lan, feeling a tad too lost here.

“Well considering you all left us behind in Whiterun, not really.” Lan whispered back.

“Sorry...I thought you and the others were keeping up…” Ben whispers nervously.

“Anyway we should leave to Iron out a contract for the the two of you” Huxley said opening a DTL back to Daybreak. “Come on guys we need to find a way to get the forge fixed while Ben and I need to head back home.” Huxley said as everyone left through the DTL before Huxley walked through the DTL he handed something to Zeke “Give this to Eclipse when she is back to he.” Huxley said walking through the portal.

“I’ve still got crap to do with Zeke…” Ben frowns, knowing that Luxu would probably like to talk with Zeke and having to talk to Daybreaks Council for a few reasons.

“Wait what he mean when Eclipse turns from a she to a he I thought she was cursed?” Elsif asked.

Back in the daybreak empire Huxley grabbed his stuff then found the Foretellers and Ben talking. “So what are you five planning to do after all of this?” Ben asks the Foretellers.

“We’ll first go home. I have a test tomorrow and Ms. Cheerilee is pretty strict.” Alex said.

“But before that, we wanted to talk to Luxu.” Lan said, “There are somethings we have to settle.”

“Hey guys.” Huxley said cutting of this conversation.

“Oh, hey Huxley.” Ben says. “What brings you here? Thought you were going to immediately leave once we got here.”

“I wanted to grab my stuff and say goodbye.” Huxley said holding up a back over his shoulder.

“Yeah, we were about to do the same. Wasn’t there something with Elzin you wanted to tell us?” Jenny asked.

“Yeah I’ll bring him around your world soon-ish I have stuff to do in my world, like making sure Aqua didn’t head to castle oblivion on her own or something like that.” Huxley said hoping she didn’t do something reckless like that.

“Yeah...that would be a bad thing…” Ben frowns. “Anyways, why do you want to talk with Luxu? Anything important or should I not bother asking?”

“He was friends with the original Foretellers, so we wanted to ask him if he has any advice for us and our Unions. Also, we wanted to settle things between us. Like he said, he sees us as the ghosts of his friends. I don’t want there to be any tension or bad blood between any of us.” Lan said.

“Ah, makes sense.” Ben nods. “Oh that reminds me, I need to be told that story, I don’t think you told me about it or just gave me cliff notes about it.” Ben explains.

“We basically gave you a Rotten Tomato summary. We’ll tell you later.” Jenny said.

“Anyway see you guys tell Zeke that I left.” Huxley said opening his book and pressing a button and walking through a DTL.

“See ya.” Ben waves. “Let’s hope Luxu just appears like before…”

“You rang?” Luxu said, walking out from behind a column “Oh hey it's the ghosts.”

“These five want to have a nice talk with you. Probably get you to see past the ‘ghost’ bit and all that fanciness.” Ben says. “I’ll leave you to it while I go find Zeke and tell him a few things.” Ben says before turning on his heels and walking off, giving the Foretellers and Luxu their space.

Luxu looked at the Foretellers. “So what do you want?”

“Well for starters, you can quit the ghost shit. That's what we wanted to talk about!” Jenny said harshly.

“And why?”

“Look, Master Luxu, we want to be friends. I know we kind of just took on the mantel of the former Foretellers, but treating us like this isn't right. We aren't them, we only want to succeed them. That includes you as well.” Dan said.

“Do you even know how they started off?” Luxu asked. “How we met?”

“We would like too.” Kira said, “If you're willing to tell us.”

Luxu inhaled. “They… started off as… not good people. Criminals, stole a lot, put people in hospitals. They were caught, and tossed to the heartless. They only survived because my dad and I managed to be nearby and heard the screaming. We helped them, they tried to mug us, dad knocked them out, and then we took them home with us. It was rough for them to break open their shells, but they did, and we became a family… I made their masks, because they hated their faces. Hated what they did, who they were.” Luxu took another breath. “Dad gave them new names, the robes, and had them become the Foretellers, guardians of the light. They followed his every world to a T, out of thanks, and gratitude.”

“They owe you two everything.” Alex said. “You guys sound as close as we are. I mean all of us found each other achieved by coincidence, and we are a family. Just like how you guys were.”

“Yeah, that’s why I call you guys ghosts. Your pasts are so similar, it’s like they're back from the dead. Everytime I see you guys I see them… and I hate how I see them… like invisible corpses floating in front of you… I can’t unsee their bodies, their deaths… I can’t unsee any of it no matter how much I wish I could, but I look at it to remind me that… if I stepped in, saved them… things would have been different.”

“You followed your father's orders just as they did. If you did anything else, they might have held it against you. You did nothing wrong Luxu.” Kira said.

“Dad knew the war was genocide, what kind of parent just has their kid watch that massacre? I did nothing while my family died not far from me… their death is on my hand… all because dad told them one of them was a traitor… when the truth is, there was no traitor, that nightmare was his, he turned them against each other and sent me away so I didn’t mess with the plans… he’s a slave to the Gazing Eye and its predictions.”

“What your father did was despicable yes, but he was only doing his role. We saw all of his inventions. Each one more vile than the next. But he was ready to throw away his life to protect the world's light.” Lan said seriously.

“Yet he knows just as well as I do that the Gazing Eye’s predictions are only a chance of many to happen. When one prediction happens there’s many more to follow of what can happen. He made sure that he, and all his reflections, they made sure the Keyblade War happened everywhere, at the same time just to have a chance at destroying the X-blade.”

“Well get over it!” Jenny said grabbing the front of his coat. “I’m sure you heard this somewhere before, but what's done is done! What good is it to just keep reminding ourselves of what happens and think about what could have been! We all have a past and we all need to deal with it!” she let go of his coat and calmed down a bit. “ We aren't them, so stop treating us like ghosts.”

Luxu grabbed Jenny’s head by the temples, and in a pulse of magic, sent all his memories of the war into her mind. She dropped him, screaming in fear. “You try and live passed that hell!” He screamed, kicking her to the side. “I can never unsee it, all of that I always see and hear, every moment of my life it’s there, haunting me. When you see hell, you do one of two things, die in it, or laugh. I took the hard way and walked through it, watching that war and not stopping it when it started is my sin to carry for eternity. What will your eternal sins be?”

“Then is that it?” Lan stepped forward, while Jenny was carried away by Alex. “We aren't saying forget about the past. We already know how the past can haunt someone. But can you honestly say that you aren't happy? If I remember right, you were with a girl called Time Bell back in Ben's reflection. Is the past stopping you from being happy with her?”

“No… no we keep each other's nightmares away somehow… I knew there was a reason I didn’t… end it like the others… I realized it was because of her. Hard headed, stubborn, and broken like me. It’s how we connected, it’s why we’re together. Gazing Eye showed me all my possible futures… meeting her was the one with the smallest chance of happening. I lived on to make it happen.”

Lan nodded. “We want to befriend you master. We aren't them, but we want to succeed them. Make up for the mistakes the Master did, as well as make sure their memories live on. Please, Master Luxu!” He bowed.

Luxu sighed. “I can look past the ghosts I see you as, the memories you bring up, so I’ll try. If you really want to succeed them you’ll need to know more about the kind of power you posses.”

“What do you mean?” Kira asked.

“You are using the powers of the First Masters, and you have yet to realize the potential you have. I’ll swing by your world in a week, we can talk more then.” He said walking away. “And sorry about your friend. She’ll experience some trauma, but she’ll be fine given time.”

Eclipse walked through the hall as she slowly became a he, much to his relief. “Damn...much longer and I would have been like Zeke at the rate I was going.”

“And maybe next time don’t destroy the guards I made for you.” Ben frowns, finding Eclipse during his walk to find Zeke.

Eclipse rubs his head. “Sorry about that… the only thing on my mind was getting that damn heat to end. Plus it itched like crazy doing nothing.”

“Even though I have ‘pony’ girlfriends their anthro.” Ben frowns. “Also I don’t think it would be good to do it with a full on pony...also you would have beaten me for even agreeing to such a thing.” Ben explains, putting his hands in his cloak pockets.

“Did I say it was smart or did I say the only thing I cared for was getting off through someone's manhood? But anyways, I’m sorry for the trouble.” Eclipse said honestly.

“It’s alright man don’t worry.” Ben says. “But glad to see you’re turning back to normal. But question...why the hell were you perfectly normal here when you were a mare then suddenly went into heat in Skyrim? I thought the time tables for each world were roughly the same?”

“Actually, they are drastically different. This was explained in Dream Drop distance, time in different worlds flows differently. For me it has been over eighteen years. I don't think anyone else has been in their world for that long.” Eclipse explains.

“Oh...that makes sense.” Ben nods. “Sadly I forgot that…” He sighs out. “Well let’s hope it hasn’t been weeks or years back home, don’t want them all worried shitless…”

“Mine are already going to be worried because last they saw me I was insane. But yea, lets hope no huge time gaps between here and our respective reflections.” Eclipse agrees “....Is this the first time we aren't at each other's throats?”

“When were we at each other’s throats?” Ben asks curiously.

“Huh...must have been thinking of Huxley. Seems like everyone has a keyblade now and days, so you can't just point and say ‘you have a keyblade!’ and know who they are.” Eclipse says embarrassed at the screw up.

“Well we are all distinguishable because of looks. I have the white cloak, Huxley has the black cloak.” Ben says while showing his white cloak. “I also have this fancy silver crown cause I’m awesome.” Ben smiles and points to his crown.

“Huh… I wonder if my Luna is going to try and get me one if I ever marry. Welp, we will just have to see.” Eclipse shrugs. “Oh also, have time to hear on what I’ve been working on ever since I saw a human again?

“Do you want me to give you the honest answer or the smart ass answer?” Ben asks with a cheeky grin.

“Haha.” Eclipse says with a smile despite his angry tone. “I’m working on a spell matrix to allow me to turn into the form of whatever inhabitants live in a world. Example, going to your world I would be anthro, and coming to Huxley’s world I would be a human with strange hair and eyes. It’s not done yet, but I hope to finish it before anything happens to me.”

“Hopefully it get’s done because that sounds fancy.” Ben smiles.

“Yea, but I think Huxley wants to prank his Twilight before I get to do that. But it could be useful for all of us when it’s done. Now, what were you doing before you ran into me? I don’t think you came down here looking for little old me.” Eclipse says bluntly.

“I was heading off to find Zeke.” Ben says honestly. “I have to tell him a few things.”

“Oh, well good luck. One of two things is gonna happen. Either Rune got him or he is busy with the counsel filling out paperwork about the Elder Scrolls world.”

“I don’t know much about Rune, but I have a feeling he’s busy with paperwork or something.” He says with a shrug. “I mean, besides the weird fetish book…”

“Lets just say, if you have a perverted marefriend, she and Rune would be best friends and leave it at that.

“Well my Luna’s more...needy than perverted.” Ben shrugs. “But hey she’s been stuck in the moon for a thousand years it’s going to take a while to steady that girl.”

“Makes sense. The only reason mine didn’t jump my bone was because we both worked together to defeat Nightmare Moon….who was her mark of mastery test apparently.” Eclipse says. “Well, you best be off. Keep in touch k?” Eclipse says with his trademark grin

“Yep.” Ben says while patting Eclipse’s head gently. “Stay safe you very worrying pony.” He says while heading off to find Zeke again.

Zeke was resting in the library, half of her wives were with her as she read over one of the books the Aqua from the new reflection Diamond Tiara made accidentally gave her. “Knock knock?” Ben asks while knocking on a bookshelf like a door.

Zeke looked up. “Oh, hey Ben. Something up?” Zeke asks, putting the book down.

“One, Huxley finally left to his world so there’s that.” Ben starts. “Two, I suppose now’s a good a time as any to say meet your wives and friends I suppose. And three...well as soon as Luxu is done talking with the Foretellers I’m pretty sure you two should have a talk.” Ben says honestly.

“I was hoping for that. Also, anything you need?”

“Well the first one was to meet the many women you’ve managed to marry you lucky bastard.” Ben frowns. “And two, should I head on home and then you call me to a meeting so I can tell everyone what Core’s been doing to my knowledge or should I stay here and wait?”

“For the council we can have that meeting next week. As for the wives, well, you know Unum, then there’s Toriel, Derpy, Rarity, Twilight, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Pinkie Pie, Flitter, Cloudchaser, Celestia, Luna, Rune, Hearts Care, and Chrysalis.”

“One of you...can you please explain how his hips aren’t in another dimension?” Ben asks one of Zeke’s wives. “Also...is Toriel some goat mother looking person?”

Toriel chuckled. “That was a nickname I had back home. Zeke and X managed to bring my two deceased children back, well, Chara was possessed by darkness, and Asriel was an artificial Nobody of sorts. My kind, our bodies don’t stay after death, they turn to dust when we die.” She explained. “Zeke and X made a heart for him.”

“Okay Ms. Tutorial.” Ben says with a nod. “Glad to know all that...but besides the obvious thing of you look like a good school teacher...I met two weird skeletons...one that slept in the middle of where I was walking and one that kept calling me ‘Human’ and trying to be friends...while sounding like Skeletor for some reason…”

“That was Sans, the one sleeping, the other is his brother Papyrus. Sans might not look like much, but since he and his brother moved here, Sans has become one of the highest ranked fighters in Daybreak. And if he gets hit once, he’s gone.”

“RPG rules, got it.” Ben nods. “The weakest of the bunch happens to be the strongest and sleep keeps his fragile yet powerful strength up.”

“Something like that, just don’t mess with his brother…last person who did Sans…well, shoved a bone up…well, you can guess.”

“Was it a boy or a girl? Cause I can make a dirty pun out of it.” Ben says with a cheeky grin.

“Perv.” Rainbow said.

“Hey I have to hear my worlds Spike talk about how he ‘fluffs your cloud’ Rainbow so shush.” Ben glares at Rainbow.

Rainbow blushed. “Multiverse is so weird.”

“Trust me, it’s only going to get weirder. Just be glad you haven’t met a fan of eldritch horror because that is going to be proven true in very horrible ways.” Ben explains. “Anywhosits, I presume we have people to start bringing back from the grave or are you too tired from all that’s happened and the bun in your oven?”

“Oh right.” Zeke said, standing up. “Well, go big or go home.” Zeke and Ben raised a hand into the air, the power in the air was tangible with the amount of Nobodies and Heartless appearing. It went on for a few moments, less than five minutes, and it stopped abruptly. “Wow, so my Heartless can appear on the world? Meh, the moon was still a good battleground.”

“I think it’s because of some magical bullshit that surrounds you.” Ben points out. “You being the ‘balance’ and all that jazz, giving the Heartless some sort of spark of light so they can be here, while Core and all his dick waffle comrades have no spark and so can’t be here...if that made any sense at all…” Ben sighs out, pinching the bridge of his nose because he thought he sounded like an idiot.

“No, you did alright.” Eclipse said, leaning on the doorframe. “Anyone going to get these people clothes?”

“They probably should and when did you get here?” Ben asks Eclipse.

“Just now. I heard the sound of fighting and it wasn’t in the arena so I wanted to check it out. Now Zeke, can Discord help here? I think we are scaring these poor people.” Eclipse says looking at a confused anthro mare. Zeke rolled his eye and simply pulled out Discord and in a flash of pink the people were clothed.

“So let’s take a headcount of who was saved shall we?” Ben asks.

“WIth the amount of power we did… Discord?” Zeke asked.

“Over 9/10 of this Equestria’s population is back, the last bunch… moved on.” Discord said with a hint of sadness,

Zeke gritted her teeth. “One bastard did all that damage…”

“Hey Discord...When people die completely, they go to one of two places right? Kingdom hearts or the Void.” Eclipse says.

“Actually, depends on the world.”

“Damn. I was hoping I could maybe help bring some back when I learned how to use Oathkeeper’s power.” Eclipse says.

“I have a feeling I’m missing something, but is there extra magic to Oathkeeper and Oblivion?” Ben says, confused about what Oathkeeper’s powers were.

“Well, is there anything you wanted Eclipse?” Zeke asks before remembering. “Oh right Huxley gave me this coin and told me to give it to you.” Zeke said handing the coin to Eclipse.

“Thanks. And I was wondering if you wanted me to stay or not? I could leave if you want but I wanted to know if you wanted me to stay for your kid.” Eclipse says acting nonchalant.

“Which?”

“The bun in your oven. After all, it’s not everyday your cuz get knocked up. And if there is one thing about the Ventrals I accept whole heartedly, is the importance of family.” Eclipse says firmly.

“Yeah, I’ll send a letter when the due date is near, got a month and a half, cause half Keyblade babies grow fast in the womb.”

“I’ll be there. Well, hopefully. Oath and I have a plan and I just hope we come home in time to be here.” Eclipse says with a nod.

“Alright then, well, if that’s all I just gotta talk with Luxu then start working on the aid for everyone who came back… that’s gonna be a headache. Well, later you two.”

* * *

After Ben and Eclipse left, Luxu found me, and asked if we could talk in privet. It was just us two in the library now. "So, I was told you wanted to talk to me?" I asked.

"I do." Luxu replied. "I have an... abnormal favor to ask you for."

"Abnormal how?"

"You believe in reincarnation?"

"The concept I know, and think it's possible, why?"

"I have a card, a castle Oblivion Card, everything a friend of mine was, and can be, is on it... I was kinda hoping that you'd... be her mom?"

"... Say what?"

"Look, you don't have to if you don't want to, and there is the likely hood she won't even get her original memories back... I just want her to live on again, I lost too many friends already."

"What your asking is beyond freaky... I think Rune had a name for it in her fetish book, but it's lost on me right now. But why me?"

"You're early in your pregnancy, there should be a few eggs still ready to... 'go' in there. If I place the card in one, it will grow into her."

"Again... freaky... I guess I can do it... for a price."

"Anything."

"Find a way to put the Keyblade Forge we found in Skyrim back together."

"You found one in Skyrim?"

"Yeah, Talked to Lord Death and X confirmed that, though it's in two parts, it's got everything."

For some reason I could feel Luxu smile under his hood. "Deal."

"Great... so first off, I'm raising this friend of yours, who is she anyway?"

"Best I don't tell you her name." He said, taking out a castle Oblivion card, back facing me. The way he held it, he made sure I didn't see the image on it as he literally placed it IN my womb from the outside... feels tingly in a sexual way... "That's all, it took."

"If that's all then I guess I should head off and tell the girls... Wonder if I'm in trouble or not?"

"Your wives man, girl? Meh, see you later. I'll get that forge to you in a month or so." Luxu said as he walked into a DTL.

After a few goodbyes, Eclipse opened a DTL to his reflection and as soon as he had walked through he was under attack by enemies he couldn't defend against. "Eclipse!" Shouted seven mares as Eclipse was buried under a ton of fluff.

"I need to breath here!" Eclipse shouted, though his smile betrayed his feelings as his lover, his sister, and his close friends all kept hugging him. "Sigh. It's good to be home."

A True Break

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I smile as as I am buried in the fluff of seven mares. A guy could get used to this, I’m not going to lie. Sadly it was over as soon as it started. I smiled as the group. “Well, I guess it doesn’t need to be said but, I’m back!” I said with a chuckle before I was slapped by Twilight.

“You bucken idiot! Don’t scare the rest of us like that again! What even happened to you? You had a crazy look in your eyes and what happened to your eye?!” She yelled, making me wince.

“Woah nelly! Let's give him a breather sugar cube. He just go home.” Applejack, said in a obvious attempt to save my hide.

“Yeah! Besides, the thing with his eye totally makes him look more badass!” Rainbow Dash said

“I have to agree with Ms. Dash on this one, the term Mares dig scars definitely applies.” Luna said with a small flash of bedroom eyes that I hope only I caught.

“That's not the point!” Twilight said exasperated. “He didn't have it when he was taken to the Daybreak Empire again, his eyes were fine besides a change of color!”

“Look, I’ll tell you all eventually, but right now that is a can of worms I don’t want to open. I promise I will tell you all one day though. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” I said going through the motions to a nodding Pinkie Pie.

“Well….fine.” Twilight said dejected “Well, we already finished our training for today, so we have the rest of today off.”

“Well, We could always get together with the other four and have a night out.” Rarity suggested. “The others would be happy to know he’s alright to. I know Spikey was simply a wreck after seeing Eclipse like he was.”

Damn it. Spike of all people saw that. “Yeah...I want to see my little bro anyways.” I said trying to hide how much that hurts, knowing I probably gave the little guy more than a few nightmares.

“Well duh! Besides, that gives me time to make it a supperdy duper bestest night in a club ever!” Pinkie said in her classic rapid fire speech.

“I um think it’ll be fun, but crowds still kinda...scare me.” Fluttershy mumbles.

“Don’t worry fluttershy, The major crowd will be all of us in a group. Just stick with us and it will be alright.” I said, getting her to smile.

“O-oh, okay.”

“So we have a plan? Rarity and Pinkie, you are in charge of finding a club for us, Twilight and Dash, could you round up the others? And Fluttershy and Applejack, you two finish up what you need to do before we head out. I know you both still have chores to do. I’ll be talking to Spike with Luna, if you don't have any plans that is.” I said, turning to the mare in question.

She shook her head “I cleared my planner for the known future as soon as I received word you were missing a week ago.” Yikes, I forgot how time flows differently in other worlds.

As we headed our separate ways, Luna nuzzled me “The scar really does suit you you know. My lorem bellator~”

I gave her a peck on the lips “What, I wasn't good looking without it?” I joke as I look into her eyes. Damn, I could get lost in them forever if we didn’t have other things to. We eventually made it to the libary after a few more teases and innuendoes. I opened the door and walked in. “Sorry, we are not open ri- ECLIPSE!” Shouted the young drake as he ran up to me, wrapping his claws around my neck. I hugged him back as he started to cry “Your back! I was so scared.”

“Thats right little bro, I’m back.” I said, holding him close.

When he finally pulled back he gasped “Wh-what happened to your eye?! It it okay?”

“I’m one eye blind now bro, but I’m okay. I’ll tell you when you’re older how I got it, it’s not something a young dragon, or even a young pony should hear okay?” I said much to his disappointment “Hey, if it makes you feel better, I won't tell Twilight either until you are old enough, deal?”

“Deal!” He said as we shook on it. Leave it to Spike to be understanding. We talked for a bit on what happened while I was gone. Apparently Sorin had asked Dash out just to be shot down. Gilda surprisingly enough was supporting him as he tried to get over the rejection. Trixie was still trying to impress everyone, though he said it strangely seemed directed at Twilight everytime she tried, though she still gets her plot handed to her in duels. Also, apparently our training ground has become a actual training ground instead of a field that constantly grew more craters, complete with a shower and weight lifting room. Leave it to magic to make something that would normally take months to make take a week.

It wasn’t long before Luna excused herself to raise the moon, shortly followed by the mares all waiting outside, Trixie and Twilight rather close to one another, same with Gilda and Sorin. After convincing Spike to stay home, promising to take him with when he was of legal age next time, and Luna putting on a guise spell to make her appearance that of when she was first freed of Nightmare Moon, we all headed out for some fun.

We hit the club, and the thumping music of Vinyl Scratch greeting us. It wasn't long before our fun devolved into a drinking contest. Twilight and Trixie called it off quickly, Twilight for being a light weight and Trixie so she could keep her composure she said. Followed by Rarity and surprisingly Pinkie Pie, though Pinkie said it was so she could remember this night completely. Gilda, Sorin, Applejack and Rainbow all went down around the 10th or 15th drink, Leaving only three competitors, Luna, myself, and the biggest shocker of them all, Fluttershy. We went drink for drink until I asked the bartender for a request, knowing at least I could handle it. I asked for a Devil’s Poison, and explained to him what it was. After dealing with his wide eyed stare and a promise that any damage to our health won’t be on him, we each to a round of Devil’s Poison. Fluttershy finished about half of it before she had to stop, to the cheers of the onlookers. Luna and I finished the first round, and the second, both of us grinning at each other as we both starting to feel the effects of the drinks now. We continued for about three more drinks before the mare cheated, batting her eyes and under the table using her tail to -erm- excite me. This caused me to cough my drink, and before I could recover, everyone thought I was done for, announcing Luna as the winner.

“You cheeky mare you~” I said, a little tipsy after all those drinks.

“Awe, jealous are we?~” She responded with a giggle.

“Yeah, and I’ll show you how jealous I am~” I said, grabbing her hoof and with the rest of the group, we hit the dance floor. To say we were terrible would be an understatement, but we just didn’t care. We danced like it was our last and eventually, we got into rhythm with the beats and wubs of the music. Grinding against each other, swaying, the lights, all of it swaying to what I will mark down in my journal I keep on my desk as one of the best nights I’ve had in a long time. Sadly, Sorin is a depressed drunk so he and gilda were off at the table, Gilda trying to support him and Sorin whining about something incoherent. Other than that, this night couldn’t have gone better as we left, all of us, even Sorin, grinning as the cool night air greeted our laughing group. We all split into groups, all of us having enough sense to travel with someone while drunk. The pairs were as follows, Rainbow and Applejack, Pinkie and Rarity, Trixie and Twilight, Sorin and Gilda, and Fluttershy joined Luna and I. And yes, I mean in both ways. We were drunk ok?!

Anyways, as we layed there, two mares with me between them, I couldn't be happier. Hell, I bet even Wolf was happy, if that vision I saw in the mirror is anything to go by. At one point while I was kissing Luna, I glanced into the mirror to see Wolf and Nightmare kissing instead. If the rest of this night wasn’t amazing enough, to see the other me happy made my day.

The next morning I awoke to two mares gigging. It took me a second to process why I heard two before I remembered last night. I opened my eyes and sat up to see Luna and Fluttershy talking. I made out the word “Herd” in there and I tried not to turn beat red. “O-oh! Good morning Eclipse!” Said Fluttershy

“Yes, good morning Lorem~” Luna said huskily

“Down girl!” I joke while laughing, glad for my Ventral genes for once as the lack of hangover is a godsend. “So, how are you two beautiful mare doing this morning?” I ask as I get a giggle from Luna.

“See, I told you he wouldn’t be that much against it~” She said to Fluttershy, much to the cute mare’s blushing.

“Against what?” I ask, playing dumb for them.

“Dame Fluttershy here brought up a idea that, as of last night, I wouldn’t mind that much. Add in the fact that in Equestria it is not only legal, but encouraged, and it is truly a marvelous idea. Fluttershy here suggested we start our own herd!” She said, giddy as a school filly. Damn it, Looks like I’m starting to be like most of the others after all, I mean, how could I say no to Fluttershy, let alone Luna?

“Are you sure Fluttershy? I don’t want you to go into this because on one drunk night if you don’t truly want this.” I said with care.

She hesitated, but I watched her grow a bit of a spine as she nodded “Yes. To be honest, I always kinda liked you after you were so nice to me. You never pushed me to be anything but myself, even telling the others to quiet down and hear what I was saying. Last night was just the the final straw as it were.”

“Or the cream on the pie!~” Luna said with a giggle, much to our blushing.

“Then, I guess I don’t see a issue, and Luna I can tell wants it as well. I guess we can try a herd and see where it takes us.” I say with a smile before I remember what X told me. “As much as I wish we continue talking about the herd, I have to tell you mares something, and Luna, I might need your help getting the paperwork for it. I want to open an orphanage.” I explained.

“An orphanage? Well, besides Ponyville not having one, why do you want to open one? It feels kind of sudden of you Eclipse.” Luna said with concern.

“It does feel kind of sudden, but I don’t see why you couldn’t. I-if that's okay with Mayor Mare and Luna that is.” Fluttershy said, hiding behind her mane.

“I know it’s sudden, but I….I made a mistake. A big one, one I won’t truly be able to make up for. And since what I did, I want to give others a chance to live a happy life. Besides, Other than training and a few missions, it gives me a major reason to stay on our world instead of traveling for who knows how long, right?” I said as they nodded in agreeance. “Also I’m going to head on my Mark of Mastery soon, and I want to get that done before the orphanage is open.”

Luna gives me a concerned look while Fluttershy asks “What is a Mark of Mastery? We were told about it, but it was never really explained.”

“A Mark of Mastery. It is a test of sorts, with each master having a different way of starting them. You could be sent to the sleeping worlds, Fight your darkness, be forced to wander the realm of Darkness, or, the easiest and by far lamest one yet, fight a couple orbs of light. Every Master has a different method. The thing is, who is doing yours? You didn’t ask me, so it isn’t me, and I don’t think Justin would start one with you.”

“Oathkeeper will be doing it.” I said summoning one of them. “They said it is risky, but in my mind, it is worth the risk. And yes, Keyblades can start the Mark of Mastery, but it is against their rules at it were. Something that happened in the past or something. Anyways, enough of this talk.” I said unsummoning Oath “We still have a few hours...what do you mares want to do?” I ask.

They both said at the same time “Cuddle!/Um, could we cuddle?”

I chuckle “Cuddling it is.” As we wrapped our hoofs over one another, me once again between the two mares in my life besides Twilight…...Damn it. How am I going to explain to her that I hooked up with not only one of her best friends, but Luna as well? It’s kinda hard to hide now….meh, thats a problem for future Eclipse. Right now, I just want to enjoy this.

The Darkness in Light

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As I cuddled the mares, a uneasy feeling hit me like a train. It felt like unholy anger, the likes I have only felt once, and it was mine that time, not someone else’s. Whatever it was, it felt powerful. “Crap...looks like I’m going to need to get started sooner than I thought….” I said as I looked out the window.

After we were done and I put on my coat, we all headed out to get the paperwork for the orphanage set up. Along the way, we bumped into a few of the girls, Rainbow and Applejack to be specific. “Howdy there Luna, Eclipse, Shy. How y’all doing after that party last night?” Applejack said to a cringing Rainbow.

“Come on AJ, keep it down will ya?” Said the LGBT maned pegasus.

“Hangover?” I asked.

“Yeah….I may have overdone it last night.”

“Um...Why haven’t you asked Twilight for that anti-hangover spell like you did during cider season?” Fluttershy asked

“.....Y’all haven't seen her today have ya?” Applejack said, giving a look as to say ‘Y’all stupid.’

“We haven't checked up on her yet no. Should we be worried?” Luna asked

“Eclipse here should know.” AJ said, gesturing to my stock still form.

“She didn’t….” I said

“She did, and if you don’t stop her, well I’m not paying for the aftermath.”

“It is best if she is alone...but she has Trixie….and I don’t see any lasers just yet….I think we are in the clear for now.” I said relieved

“What are you two talking about?” Luna asked

“You don't want to know.” All the rest of us, Fluttershy and Dash included, responded.

Three hours later….

The paperwork…..my god it was torture! I just got a taste on Zeke’s life whenever the multiverse isn’t in danger and I can tell, the paperwork is going to suck! “Why so much paperwork! And that was all the written permission to even get property! That wasn’t even the orphans permission!” I say exasperated.

“You did ask for this Lorem so you have no one to blame but yourself.” Luna says with a small smile

I thank the girls, thanking them for saying they’d handle the paperwork while I’m gone as long as I make it up to them. I walked out to the center of a open field some miles away from Ponyville before summoning one of the Oathkeepers. “So, what's the deal?”

Your Mark of Mastery will be different than any used today, to the point to where X will notice what I have done and probably get me in trouble because of what it entails. First, you will be sent in alone. No hearts will reach out to you, and I can not help you, as I will temporarily locked away from you. I can not tell you what awaits you, But I can tell you that what you will face will be worth it in the end. You will have to rely on your strength of heart and the heart of the other you to see though this, otherwise neither of you will survive. Your first goal is to find peace with one another. How that comes to be is up to you two. Next, where you will end up is different for everyone, so just know that the only thing you can count on to expect is seeing the other you without Oblivion, and that is it. Other than that, know that those you meet, if you meet anyone, will forget you after you leave, so don’t bother making any friends or allies. You both will be under constant attack, unless you are fighting each other. They will them swarm on the winner. She takes a breath I wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn't a quick way to get back Oblivion Eclipse, know that now, because if you fail my head is on the line.

“I understand.” I said to reassure her.

No you don’t! Eclipse, people have died doing this. Only about five others have ever done this successfully, and they had years of preparation. You want to know how I send you to your testing area? I literally kill you! And who knows how long this will take if you come back at all!

“So?” I ask “Oath, Half the things I’ve done should have killed me, even back on earth. I have a bad habit on surviving when I shouldn’t. Besides, you’re not going to talk me out of this. I will do this. I can’t keep being the weakest link, I need to do this. If not for me, if not for those I care for, for Oblivion.”

Sigh. Fine. But if you don’t succeed I swear to Kingdom Hearts I will find you and end you myself, got it? Oh and before I forget, take off your jacket. Oblivion and I will look after it while you are gone. Same with your wayfinder.

I sighed and hesitantly took off my coat and placed the green wayfinder Unum gave me on top. “So, what now?”

Now for the part that is going to break my heart. I-I'm sorry in advance. She said as she floated out of my grip. Before I knew it I heard the air being cut, followed by me grabbing at my throat. The familiar feeling of blood coating my hooves is one of the last things I felt as I stumbled and fell, passing out before I even hit the floor.

When I came to, it was like waking up in a dream. I could tell it wasn’t the Station of Awakening, but it sure as hell felt like it. I groaned as I opened my eyes and sat up. The area around me….it was hard to describe to be honest. It was like I was in a place that I had been in all my life, but I knew I had never been there before. Or I was going to be here despite being already there. Confused yet? I sure as hell was. I heard another groan and turned around to see Wolf sitting up as well. It was at this point I noticed I wasn’t in my pony form, but my human one as I stood up. Thankfully, I haven't forgotten how to walk on two legs as I take a step towards him.

“Stop right now or I’ll kill you myself.” Wolf said, his voice strangely not sounding as distorted as before. He stood up, also humanoid which only increased how messed up he looked. He looked like a Balverine from the Fable series and a Human had a child with red irises and black whites. He was just creepy looking, but thankfully we both had clothes on or it would be both creepy and weird. He looked around before turning to me. “What the hell have you gotten us into now “Eclipse.”” He said, making air quotations around my name.

“This is OUR Mark of Mastery, Wolf. Oh and don’t bother trying to summon Oblivion, it won’t work.” I responded

“I could already tell jack ass, you don’t have that bitch of a keyblade drawn. But I don’t need a blade to kill you.” He said with a wicked grin.

“Wolf, we talked about this! We don’t need to fight!” I said exasperated

“Bullshit and you know it!” He yells. “Want to know part of the reason why I fight you? It isn’t just because of the Light being a ass!” Before I can react, he knees me in the gut. “It isn’t Just because I’m stronger!” He grabbed me by the throat and lifted me to where my feet can’t touch the floor. “It is because every time you dump your petty problems onto me!” He then proceeded to punch my face, all while continuing to talk. “Getting angry? Suppressed! See an asshole who deserves to die? Here you go Wolf! Eat up on those emotions so I don’t have to feel them!” He then stops and brings me to look into his eyes as blood runs down my face “And worst of all, worse than even not caring that those go to me, you dump your major crap on me as well! You dumped your Killing mood, which mind you, still hasn’t stopped and shows no sign of slowing, on to me! That is torture in itself! But that's not all, of course it’s not!” He growled as he tightened his grip around me. “You dump your guilt of not only your kill, but of mom’s death onto me as well! Every day, while you get to play and laugh with that stupid bitch Twilight I feel that agony, unable to move on! All because of you! No more! I-I can’t deal with it anymore! You will feel my pain!” He yells as he places both of his claws on me and yells, pouring darkness into my as I start to find myself back into the memory I have long since suppressed.

I was only seven when it happened. All my life my mom had me hidden away in our two bed apartment. I now know it was for my safety, as well as hers, hell even at the time I think I understood to some degree. Mom was a prostitute. She claimed that she was infertile, but when she found the man she loved and well, you know, it was like magic. Two months later she check in with a physician and found out that she was pregnant with me. She would always laugh at this story, and say from the day my mother and father met, I was a survivor. She would go on and talk about my dad, on how he was strong, handsome, even if it was in her eyes, and how in his own way, very brave. One time, I asked where is dad, and her smile flattered a bit. She then said “Your dad….He couldn’t stay with me sweetie. He had to get back to his work, to his life, though he said that if he ever found a way, he would come back for me. Don’t mistake me Colin, I may have many people come over, and some may even spend the night, but your dad is the only man I will ever love other than you.” After that I never asked again.

I loved her so much. Whenever she was done with work, she would shower and then check up on me. Sometimes, if it was a aggressive customer, she would hold me close in bend and simple rub my head of light brown hair, humming. She would always sing for me whenever I felt hurt, afraid or alone, and her voice was amazing. If I could still remember it completely I would do everything to try and replicate it, because nobody could match her voice. I wished that my mom would never leave me, and she would promise that whenever I asked her to. This was not a easy life, but it was one I was happy to live.

One day, she came home with some good news from her pimp. Being one of the few pimps who would actually care for his girls and their home life, he found out my Mom had a kid. He said he wouldn’t tell anyone as long as she didn’t tell the other girls about the small pay raise she would get to help support me. She was so happy that day, A light shined in her eyes as she grew hopeful, saying that with the money she was getting, we could save up for maybe a actual house, or even a way to find dad. We treated ourselves to cookies that day as we both were gaining and my mom was singing. Things were finally looking up in our life.

Later that same night, one of mom’s regulars came in. I was in my room, like my mom always said after a certain time so that I don’t turn off any customers. He wanted some time with mom but she said that unless he was paying, she wouldn’t do anything with him, especially since he didn’t make an appointment. I heard him slap her. I gripped my doorknob my stopped from exiting. This was not the first time mom had a aggressive customer, so was uncertain why I was so needing to exit the room now. That was until I heard the sound of a blade being drawn.

In a panic I slammed open the door for him to turn to me, the smell of booze clear in his breath. “Get back inside that room kid, your mommy and I are just going to have some fun.“ he said turning back to my mom. To this day, I don’t know what came over me, but despite being seven, and never seeing a knife that wasn’t being used by my mom for cooking, I stood my ground.

“NO! You get away from momma!” I shouted, my red eyes glaring at him. He growled and threw my mom against the wall before walking over to me.

“You snot nosed brat!” He shouted before going to stab me. It had to have been the instinct in my blood because next thing I knew, I had his knife and had stabbed him in the leg. “You bitch!” He yelled. Before turning to mom, shouting. “You better watch yourself Aurora! Next time I’m here you’ll pay for this!”

I ran over to mom and hugged her, crying while she tried to comfort me. I snobbed and hiccuped until I passed out in her arms. The next day I awoke to chuckling. “Oh so the kid is awake now? Perfect! This runt will get what he deserves, but first, for dear ol mom.” I was tied up to a chair with that man I stabbed, as well as a few other creeps. I spotted a few of them with guns, but assorted around was many different tools, from cutting tools, to hooks, and a camera setup to record it all. I looked over and saw mom coming to. And when she noticed me and where we were, she started to scream at the people holding us here.

“Let my son go you monsters! Kill me if you want but let him go!” She screamed as she fought against her ropes.

“You would know all about monsters, having given birth to one, didn’t you? Don’t lie, everyone know only the Ventral family can have red eyes. And your son there has them. Hmm, I wonder what that could mean, right boys?” The stabbed man asked as the rest of the crowd all agreed, chuckling and asking themselves how much they think I would sell for. I was scared, so scared. I called out for mom before one of them hit me and I just continued to cry after that. “Shut up!” He turned back to my mom. “Make sure the boy watches while the rest of us have our fun, got it George?”

“Got it boss.” Said a big guy behind me. My head was grabbed as I was forced to look at what they were doing to her. They put her through hell as they played with her body, both for their sexual desires and sick ones, cutting her open all while fucking the life out of her. The entire time, she never broke, constantly yelling at them, saying they’ll pay if they don’t let me go. All while they recorded this sick shit. At one point, they cut her stomach, only getting the skin and pulling from both sides with hooks. It was at this point the George guy was to occupied getting his kicks to realise I had gotten the ropes loose. My mom noticed, as with I can only assume to be her saying run with the last of her energy.

Before I could act on it though, gunshots ran out throughout the building. I started to panic and ran, thankful that we were in a place I recognized not far away from home. I ran home, ignoring the screams as I ran into the home, locked the door and ran to my room to cry. It was later that the Pimp burt though the door, shouting for my name, when he found me he sighed in relief and had me go with him. He was the closest thing I had to a father for that year before he found some friends to take care of me. I never thought of them as family though.

Before he gave me away though, he gave me my colored contacts and had me go with him to my mom’s funeral. I think that was the first time I met the Ventrals. Looking back, they were probably the ones who attacked the sickos who killed my mom. When I walked up to the case to say goodbye, it was everything I could not to breakdown. She was buried in a meadow about a mile away from town, the same meadow she would take me to for picnics. Eventually it was only me, the pimp and another cloaked man. The man gave me a look before he to walked away, and the pimp took me home.

I returned to the now to notice black tattoos covering my arms and hands. “Now you know what you make me relive, day after day. I hate you, so much. You have caused me nothing but pain in my life!” Wolf yelled at me as I collapsed as tears filled my eyes. “And now, it is my turn to be free of you.”

To be continued….

The Light in The Darkness

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Did I really put him through hell? That memory is one I kept locked up tighter than any others due to the simple pain of it. You don’t know. None of you can know that pain. Being forced to watch as they tortured and eventually, killed our only parent you had ever known. I sat there on my knees, crying while Wolf went on talking. I can’t remember all of what he said, my mind flashing through my life, all those nights I was alone crying, all those days I was bullied, everything that lead me to being the antisocial man I was before all this craziness. I was nothing. I gasped as my mind started to take another direction. I saw my new life to this point. Yea there was pain, it wouldn’t be life without it. But there were others I cared for, and who cared for me. I saw flashes of all the misadventures I had, before three powerful images flashed. First of me with the others, those also learning the way of the keyblade in the club, laughing and having fun together. Second was a image of the other survivors I met, all of them getting even a small smile at our antics. And the final one is one that will never leave my heart, come hell or high water. Nothing will ever take it away. It was a mash up picture that included the fallen. I saw my mother chatting with Luna and Fluttershy. A filly running between my legs and into a building in front of me. Suddenly my mom turned to me with Luna and Fluttershy smiling. Twilight walked out of the building, looking happy if exhausted as more fillies and colts ran out the doors to greet me. The image brought a tear to my eye as I was hugged by many children and my marefriends. My mom came up and help me close, making me feel like it was all those years ago. A hand was placed on my shoulder before a voice that sounded oddly familiar spoke.

Well, are you going to give up on them?

“NO!” I shouted as I looked up, casting a small barrier in my hands despite not having a keyblade or being a unicorn, blocking a swipe from Wolf. “I’m not done yet!”

“Didn’t you hear me? I’m not going back to being your heart’s garbage bin!” Wolf yelled as he tried to force me down.

“And I’m not asking you to be!” I said, throwing him off. “I’ll take the pain from now on! You’ve suffered enough! Darkness has suffered enough! But you told me darkness is what caused emotions right?” I dashed in front of him with speed that surprised even myself. “Then fight not for me, fight for this!” I said as Light covered my hand as I grabbed his face. Suddenly white tattoos started to cover him to match my black ones. He got on his hands and knees as I showed him the images I had going through my head not a second ago.

“Why… This-This changes nothing!” Wolf said unconvincingly as he snapped out of it. “This doesn’t change what you have done! It changes nothing you bastard!”

“I am a bastard, thanks for noticing.“ I say with a chuckle

“Shut the fuck up!” He yells as he charges at me.

“Tell me! Do you love Nightmare!” I yelled as I blocked another swipe with my arcane shield. “Would you die for her? Would you give up everything to be by her side? Would you gladly kill someone you love for her?”

“Of course I would!”

“So would I! Death is as natural as life, and as much as I love life, I would kill for Luna! So tell me what makes us different?!”

Wolf looks hard at me before returning with questions of his own. “Would you betray Zeke and the other survivors for your reflection? Would you say fuck it and let entire universes die just to protect your family? Would you?!”

“Without hesitation!” I shout. This caught him off guard as we both backed away. “Lets finish this anime style why don’t we? One strike from both sides?”

He grumbles “I was hoping to say that.” he said, pouring all of his darkness into a blade like weapon while I made a light one.We charged at each other, yelling and in a blink, we both had the blades pressed against each other's throats.

“Why didn’t you go for the kill. Thought you wanted me dead.” I ask, my hair making a shadow over my eyes.

“Heh, I could ask you the same question.” He said with his wolfish grin.

“I never wanted to kill you, you know that. After all, I art thou.” I said looking up with a smile

“And thou art I.”

“With this the contract is formed.” We both said as we looked each other in the eyes.

“You stupid Persona nerd.” Wolf says lowering his blade before dispersing it.

“What can I say.” I said, dispersing my blade “So….we cool?”

“...Fine. But on one condition. From now on, you do not have full control. I don’t want to go back to being nothing anymore. I...I can’t go back to that.” Wolf said begrudgingly

“Deal. How about this, you ride shotgun in my mind, see the things I see and in a way, do what I do. We be one, instead of two.” I suggest with a smile.

“Heh...I never thought it could work until now….but might as well.” He smiled before tendrils of darkness seeped unto me during a bright flash of light.

It felt… different. I to this day can’t describe it. I didn’t feel pain, so it wasn’t painful, but I didn’t feel warm either. It was like nothing had happened, but I could feel something. One thing was for certain, it felt right! Like everything was where it should be. I felt like something clicked. I was Eclipse Ventral, the combination of both my lifes lined up the way they should be. I felt the Killing Mood Wolf was suppressing, but it didn’t control me, rather I controlled it. I looked up and grinned as these shadowy figures rushed as me now that the fighting stopped. I summoned a blade from my heart, noticing it was white with tendrils of darkness coming off it before I sliced one in half.

This I could get used to.

As I fought, I noticed I was starting to get overwhelmed. I could feel one of them try to attack my back before something blocked it. I looked back to see Wolf with his blade block a strike. “Can't get rid of me that easily asshole.” He said.

“What can I say, Wolves never fight alone.” I said with a wicked grin.

“Finally accepting the Killing Mood are we?” He said with a glance to me. We both smiled as we slaughtered the shadow figures, laughing the entire time. It took about ten minutes, but eventually We both started to get bored. “Would be better if they actually had blood.” Wolf grumbled.

“At least we get the rush of battle…but this is starting to get repetitive.” I responded. This was utter boredom after a while. It was like they were throwing themselves onto our blades. And suddenly, like a Deus Ex Macina, all the shadow figures disappeared. “That's…rather convenient. It’s like the author of a bad fanfiction couldn’t be bothered to write a more epic fight scene.”

“Tell me about it.” Wolf agreed, seemingly disappointed that the fight was over. We unsummoned our blades before walking side by side in a random direction. “Why do you even bother?” Wolf asked after a bit of walking.

“What do you mean?” I responded.

“Why do you keep positive when there is nothing to be happy about?”

“Simple. Because what is scarier to fight, a opponent who is constantly worrying, serious and uptight, or one that while you fight them, shows they are playing with you.” I said as we stop. “I never claimed that I keep positive, I simply use psychology against my opponent. I laughed previously to throw them off guard… though I guess now it will be true laughs as I fight. Besides, I know I’m not a goodie two shoes. I never pretended to be.”

“But that doesn’t mean you’ll let others harm what is precious to you.” Wolf finished for me.

“Exactly.” I summoned my blade again and looked at it. “No one will take away what I love ever again. Even if that means I have to kill innocents, I would do it to protect those a care for. They may hate me for it, but as long as they are safe, alive and breathing, I could care less.”

“Whatever you say, just glad you’ve stop denying yourself. What will you call that power your blade is made out of though?”

I didn’t stop looking at it while he talked. “Well, Zeke already has dibs on the name Purified Darkness, so how about Corrupted Light? Seems about right by how we are...partner.” I said, disbanding it and turning to him with a smile. “If Darkness and Light are destined to fight, then how about we forge our own destiny together.”

“Eh, Destiny is a bitch anyways.” Wolf says uncaringly. “Oh and I should tell you, if we ever do get out of here, your eyes are their natural red now.”

“Perfect.” I said honestly. “I’m not Eclipse Sparkle, I’m not Colin Ventral, and I sure as hell am not you. I think both of my names will work for my new name. Eclipse Ventral has a nice ring to it.” I said as I continue to walk. I felt so different. It was a good different, but I felt like I finally accepted who I was. I am a survivor. I am a killer. I am a lover. I am a warrior. I am both dark and light. I am Eclipse. And I will survive and excel at protecting my family no matter what.

We kept walking for who knows how long. Time became a blur. The only excitement we had was the occasional fight with the shadow figures, but they never lasted as long as the first time. I was honestly surprised we could both keep going without any food or water for this long. Good news for Wolf he found he could simply enter my body whenever he wanted, and I could enter his. This lead to us coming up with many creative team attacks as we traveled. And no, I can't describe our surroundings at the time. It...it was so confusing. Imagine walking in a mirrored room, where the mirrors were at every angle, even under you and you can only tell you are walking forward by a tug at your heart.

We were both out when we heard a voice. It was familiar, but not the same one that spoke when I was traveling down memory lane. “So, you are the Heart who came when they weren't supposed to be.” In a instant, Wolf and I had our blades drawn and went back to back. “And a Split core….no not quite. You are like two hearts that make up one whole. Most interesting. Not many have succeeded in that since my creation, and even fewer survive the process.”

“Show yourself asshole!” Wolf growled.

“And they always need to learn manners. Sigh. Those two trouble makers need to find a wielder that isn’t rude for once. Well, those twin always were different.”

“Come on, show yourself already! And how do you know of Oblivion and Oathkeeper!” I yell out, keeping an eye out for any shadows.

“Oh right, here I am talking about manners and I haven't introduced myself!” The voice exclaimed. “My name is ______ but most know me as Kingdom Hearts. Doesn’t roll off the tongue as easily though. Shame really.” Said the voice. “And I can’t show myself, because you are inside me. But I digress, you are probably here for your Mark of Mastery right?”

“Hold on for a second, I need to clear something up here.” I said taking a deep breath before Wolf and I both yelled out “You’re Kingdom Hearts?!”

“Yeah, yeah I thought we’d gone over this already.” KH said with what I swear was a roll of his eyes. And before you say it was a moon, it doesn’t have a gender, it sounded like a dude okay?! “Now, I’m asking ya. Are you on your Mark of Mastery?”

I nodded. “Yes I am. Oathkeeper enacted it.”

“Really? Huh. I expected Oblivion to do it a while ago. Looks like he finally matured, if only a little bit.” KH said with a hint of indifference. “Well what’s a father to do? I can’t keep babying them after all.”

“I…guess?” I said. This was…not how I expected a talk with Kingdom Hearts to go down.

“Why does Kingdom Hearts sound like a single dad? It’s driving me fuckin’ insane!” Wolf yelled.

“For your information, I technically am, at least for X, the other legendary keyblades, and the original bodies for Oathkeeper and Oblivion. I simply helped with the others, but those ones were nearly solely mine. So yes, I am a single dad. Second, rude much? And Lastly, you shouldn’t know that meme, you didn’t last to 2017.” Kh said to Wolf.

“...What meme?” He said with a look of confusion.

“I rest my case.” Kh said in a knowing voice. “Anyways, since showing you baby pictures would be useless right now, how about I get to the point?” Kh said, much to Wolf’s sanity at the time. “Now, what do you want to know? Everyone wants to know something? Is it the meaning of life? What your place is in this universe? How I am pretty much the hardrive of the multiverse and all realms? Well, spit it out! I should tell you those, only one question per person….or should I say pony?”

Wolf and I looked at each other and smirked, both having an idea. “How can I make sure those I care for will survive?” I asked.

“That is a common question for sure. Let’s see here…huh. Well, I can’t tell you everything. There are things beyond even me but what I can say is two things. First, train them harder. Your Celestia, Luna, all of them who can wield a keyblade. Train them, spot out their weaknesses, and make them nonexistent. They will have a greater chance of survival. Don’t try to refuse their help, because then they will go with you regardless.” He said with a chuckle before his tone got serious. “The second thing is this. Your future, and those who are also survivors of your god’s world, is clouded. I can see what if’s, but nothing certain. You all have control of your destiny, and no one can say otherwise.”

“Thanks for the info.” I said as Wolf decided it was his turn.

“How much stronger can we get?”

Kh laughed. “Oh that’s a good one. You, well… you technically shouldn't be able to handle the power you currently possess, let alone any more. You’ve surpassed the limits your body can handle already, no matter what your heart and mind tell ya. Naturally, without any outside help, you are as strong now as you are going to get, and let me tell you, you are nowhere near the power of this Core person you have been fighting as of late.”

Damn it all. We already surpassed our limits, and we are not even close to touching him?! “No...I refuse to believe that!” Wolf and I started to say at the same time “I refuse! If I can’t get strong enough to even scratch Core, how the hell will I handle what comes next, let alone survive Core himself!”

“Now now, calm down you two.” Kh chuckled. “I said naturally, you two can’t get stronger in a way your bodies can handle. There are ways to be able to handle such power, but sadly, I have already use my once a century power of turning a mortal into a keyblade on your cousin Zeke. You will have to find another way, but I think that possibility is easier than you think.” He said in a knowing voice that had really started to get annoying. “Now, I’ll give you one more bit of information, the way out. You have been walking in the right direction… for now. I don’t keep a back door open for long for a reason. You need to hurry and after you leave, that door will close unless X or another X-blade opens it. Oh one more thing... if you don’t make it in time, you will stay dead. FOREVER! Chop chop.”

We both cursed as we ran, our heart our only guide as a laughing Kh was the only thing to keep us company. We saw a door and immediately ran through to awaken back in the field where this Mark of Mastery began. It was night, and as I hadn’t moved in who knows how long, I groaned and I felt my throat, finding a new scar where Oathkeeper sliced me. How long were we gone?

I don’t know, but we need to find Oblivion and Oathkeeper to find out.

Agreed Wolf. They shouldn’t be far…

Eclipse!

Thank god, He made it back in time. I thought we lost another one through that test.

Speak of the devil. I laughed as the two floated over towards me, both carrying my gear. “Hey guys, how long was I gone?” They remained silent for a moment before handing me my stuff.

After you saved me and began your mark of mastery…dude, you’ve been gone for over 3 months.

(Que car crash sound) “Three fuckin’ months?!” I said, my voice having had a slight echo as I could tell Wolf had said the same thing.

Yes, and Luna took a thousand years if I recall. Oathkeeper said with a sound saying ‘so?’ Also, what was with that just now? Your voice...echoed.

I thought about how to answer before I put on my coat, hiding the existence of most of my new tattoos as I turned away from them. “Nothing...You must have heard things.” I said. And had I had a mirror, I would have saw my red eye glowing as they floated alongside me.

”Next stop: Ponyville.”

I walked into the darkened town with a happy smile. As much my new found respect for killing is good and all, nothing beats coming home. I looked over and smiled as the orphanage was exactly where I planned on it being, not too far from the center of town, but not close enough to never get any sleep. I noticed the closed sign and sighed, knowing they wouldn’t open until I showed up. I walked in and smiled even more. It was wonderful. Quiet home. The kitchen and dining room wasn’t quite as large as Zeke’s, but it sure was up for competition. There were two stories, one for the children who may end up missing a leg or two, as well as the younger children. The upper floor was for myself and the older, able bodied children. The ground floor also had multiple rooms where the children could play, as well as a room for the potential parents to meet the kids. I trotted over to the pantry and hit a hidden switch I had planted, but left it up to Luna and Twi to build what I had planned under there. I saw that they had definitely pulled through, the tunnel showing that the orphanage was built upon a hidden gummi ship, just in case of the worst.

I sealed the tunnel and walked up the stairs before I had entered my room. It was simple, just the way I had asked. It had a large bed, the room was spacious, and it had two different dressers, as well as a place for if a mare wanted to do make up across from the bed. It also had a chest at the base of the bed I would probably be using more often than not. All this didn’t take away from the simplicity as I stumbled onto the bed, and plopped down, dead to the world.

The next morning I yawned as I opened my blurry eyes, and was greeted by two shaped. One tall, blue and looking rather pissed, the other smaller, yellow and pink with a rather fearful look. I gulped as Oathkeeper and Oblivion decided to leave this to me as it were and disappear now of all times. “Ah hehe…hey Luna...Flutters...” Oh god I’m so boned.

Dream Fun With Gray

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I Walked around my dreams randomly. I normally do this to relax when I came across a really strange sight. It was a thestral pony willing with a book and a ton load of placks behind him, about 13 in total.

“Welcome master to this Dreamscape. I… am your spirit animal Nebula Gray. I welcome you to this realm and hope you are finding the rest suitable.”
I blinked a few times as the words sunk in. “This is a joke right?”

“Joke? Of course not Master. I’m am here to facilitate your arrival into this realm. I couldn’t reach you due to some interference with your… heart. Yeah that’s it.” He whispered the last part.
“Huh...makes sense having visited Kingdom Hearts, fighting myself on what feels like a day to day basis and a whole ton of other crap since I met Zeke.” I responded with a shrug. “Besides, I've learned to just roll with these things.”

“I’m here to warn you that the perverted thoughts you have had are starting an uprising and are making their way to the rational part of your head.”
“Okay now I know you are joking” I said starting to laugh. “It was a good one though. I'll give you that.”

“Then what’s that over there?” A version of Luna in a leather saddle with a bit in her mouth and a riding crop floating in her magic appeared.
“Easy, Luna has been trying to convince me to do that since our first time by changing my dreams. Doesn't work and she gave up after finding out in lucid.” I shrug again.

“Ugh… Well at least you’re more fun than that other guy. He reminded me of everything I left behind already. Said he was a Ventral. Didn’t really care though. I already locked that past away when the world started to end.”
“Ah, you’re another survivor then? Huh. Small multiverse. So, you got turned into a pony too?” I asked.

“Thestral. Sounded cooler and also got this keyblade as well. It’s a far call from what I used to do but I manage. Uh… Though my stories of my adventures aren’t up to snuff. Heck the only thing I’ve done so far is fight a version of Nightmare Moon.” He summoned a keyblade and let it hang in his hoof for a sec before putting it away.
“Ah, I get the feeling. I've dealt with my Nightmare just to have Zeke drop into my life...literally. Since then everything has been shit on the timeline. Name’s Eclipse.” He said, offering a hoof.

“Ah welcome Sparkplug. Nice to meet ya.” I bump his hoof and fly back up hanging upside down to watch his reaction.
“Sparkplug? That's a new one. And I was called a pedo because I'm mentally forty two.” Eclipse said, acting scarily chill.
“Pedo Plug then. I think the nickname rolls off the tongue. Perfect. I wish I had thumbs right now cause I would so give you a thumbs up for saying something that really didn’t need to be said. Woo Random names for the win!”
Eclipse laughed as he summoned Oblivion and Oathkeeper to his side. “ Oh ho you’re going to pay for that one.”

“You wanna hear something really funny…” My eyes begin to glow a deep yellow as the dreamscape begins to blur.
“Let me guess...your mind, your rules?” Eclipse said with a smile.

“That’s not the funny part. The funny part is when I send this conversation to Zeke for the express purpose of a laugh. That’s the funny part.”
“...you evil git.” Eclipse said in a tone I recognized as defeat...sweet, sweet defeat.

“But… I’m willing to go back to Sparkplug and forgetting all about that if you do me a little favor.”
“Fine, what is it?” Eclipse said, dismissing his keyblades.

“I need you to hit me with a stop level spell.”

“That's it? What level, Stop, Stopra, Stopga, what?”

“First level. I learn spells after being hit with them. I don’t think I’ll be finding any time lords in my reflection anytime soon. I also don’t want to deal with the Elements of Harmony in my world if I can avoid it. Too much timeline fuckery could happen. So dreamscape is the safest place so far.”

“Well, a few things first. First, a warning. Using the higher levels of this spell and even using it too much can and will lead to a massive migraine in the morning. Second, You exist in the world and I bet heartless do to...the timeline is already fucked by those details alone. And third, don’t say they won’t find you, they generally do right after you say that.” Eclipse said with surprising knowledgeability. “Now...for the spell. STOP!” He said, summoning Oathkeeper and raising it above his head.

“A...bit of warning would be...nice” He groaned as he stood back up.

“I starting thinking about gravity… Woops. Well at least it was funny. Not so much when I fell but you get the picture.” I stood up and stretched out my wings. Why does this hurt in my dream too?

“Because you think you should be feeling pain...and because it’s your mind it affects me.” Eclipse said like I was supposed to know this.

“Did you just read my mind?”

“Actually, yea.” He said, pointing to the ground where it showed that exact thought. “It just kinda popped up there.”

“Hm… well what do you know. So quick question. How did you deal with your Nightmare Moon?”

“Long answer or short one?”

“The one that doesn’t put you in a catapult that shoots you to the dream moon. Short.”

“Kay then. I started to fight her during her monologue, found out she was a keyblade wielder, fought her in her heart to help free Luna, then the elements did the rest.”

“Weird. I called mine a whorse to piss her off then I smacked her upside the chin with my keyblade. Then she summoned a Demon Tide on me. Oh well, whatcha gonna do about that. I at least can cross off insulting royalty on my bucket list.”

“Yeah…kinda did that most of my childhood, much to Twilight’s sanity, or lack there of.” Eclipse said. “Let me tell you, it feels awesome calling Celestia sunbutt to her face!”

“Hah. There’s no such thing as sanity. Crazy Sparkplug. Sanity is a myth. And my next bucket list item goes much farther than Sunspot. I’m going straight into madness. I will punch him in the face just cause I want to.”

“Wait… You are going to punch John de Lancey in the face?!”

“Yup. It’s a god given right to punch people in the face. Plus I have a loophole to logic. I don’t have fists. I have hooves.”

“Well played my friend… wait….aw shit! I forgot to tell my Luna and Flutters I was home!... I’m dead.”

I quietly used the Lexicon to make an open casket for Eclipse. Then quietly let bugles play their tune. Then I tap him on the head with the book in order to attach a more secure link to message him whenever necessary.
“Goodbye...old friend.” Eclipse says dramatically before falling into the coffin.

Family Ties

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I gulped as I looked up at the two. I was so fucked. I had left both Luna and Flutters in the dark that I was back! “Hehe...How are you two?” I said with a scared chuckle.

“Well, for one we can call off the searches for you, that’s a start.” Luna said, her tone icy.

“I told you I was going off on my mark of mastery…” I wince

“We expected it to last a week at most.”

“heh...I take it a ‘I’m sorry’ isn’t going to cut it?” I said, now hoping they don’t notice the scar on my neck.

“Your sister and brother were starting to think you were dead.” Luna added.

“Umm...We were all scared for you Eclipse...Especially me.” Fluttershy said. Damn, that mare could guilt trip without trying to guilt trip.

“I’m sorry...to all of you. I now pinkie promise that I will never leave for more than a week on purpose. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” I said with a sad frown.

“Before we forgive you, we have a few questions and new rules now.” Luna said, finally cracking a small smile.

Oh boy. “Okay, I should have expected this. Let's hear them.” I said, sitting up right.

“First off, we want to know exactly what possessed you to want an orphanage? I mean, it’s a good idea, but still, it’s a tad… out of the blue.”

“I uhm...Agree with Luna. As much as I love little fillies and colts, it is sudden.”

I sighed. “I...Fine. I’ll tell you two. Just… please don’t tell anyone else. Let this skeleton stay amongst us, please?”

“Alright.” Luna agreed as Fluttershy nodded.

“So...You remember how we had that mission a while back...where we went to Radiant Garden? I had told the others to leave when a member of my old family showed up. She would have killed them without mercy. As soon as they had left...we fought. I outclassed her, she was barely able to get a hit on me, but she damaged Oathkeeper. Oblivion and I both lost it and started to wail on her relentlessly until...Until I used Stopga, and rapidly slashed her exposed stomach with the intent to kill. Yes, I killed her...but I also found out she was pregnant at that moment as her unborn infant came out of the wound. I killed a unborn child and a person who I later found out that her sole dream was to be a mother.” I said before taking a ragged breath, tears starting to roll down my cheek. “I...I wanted to be punished for what I did. I told the X-blade what had happened, and he gave me the sentence of being the owner of an orphanage until the day I die. He said I had taken a life before it had a chance to life, so I must live the rest of mine supporting others in the start of theirs.” I looked up and turned to the two mares. “He was too kind. But I don’t plan on going back on his word. I...I have to make up for that child.”

While Fluttershy was looking sick and was contemplating things, Luna just looked at me, tears of her own falling as she pat my head. “I… remember everything Nightmare Moon and I did you know. Before she even took over… I’d kill servants for small, stupid things, just because I was angry… When she took over, we nearly killed Celestia, but we killed over half the castle staff that day. Some of which were… homeless foals who worked for housing… I know how hard that is to cope with Eclipse, right after sister took me to Canterlot, I broke down in tears for weeks, remembering all those deaths all at once. She said the best advice was to find something to help heal me, or at least distract me. Games distracted me, but you Eclipse, you healed me.”

“Luna…” I said as I embraced her.

“Let us heal you now Eclipse, the things we may do, weather intentional or not, help define us, shape us. While these moments in our lives were some of the darkest, we can only accept it as our past and move forward to become new, better ponies.”

“Thank you…” I said as, without letting go of Luna, I turned to look at Fluttershy.

She seemed to inhale deeply, trying to muster strength. “W-while I can look pasted what you did Eclipse… lives were still ended… to me… I can only think of one… punishment for you every time you kill, past or future.”

“I...I understand. What do you want me to do?” I said gloomily.

“Foals.” She said plainly. “For every life you end, a foal will be birthed by Luna or I. As much as I’d like a big family, this will show us how well you can try and save somepony.”

I blinked. And blinked again. Then a small measure of panic started to worm it’s way in...as well as excitement if I am to be honest with myself. “W-Woah Flutters! A-As much as that is a good incentive, us three are not even married yet!” I said.

“Neither where my parents til my brother was born.” She retorted. “Lot’s of ponies are parents without being married, all that matters are that the parents are both there for the foal, look at Derpy and Doc, they have a little filly and they live in diffrent houses, save for holidays.”

“Th-that's true.” I admitted. ….what? Being raised in this society you learn a thing or two about it!

“Well, in that case, before Fluttershy’s punishment takes effect we have one last rule.” Luna said. “Well, one rule, the other an option. Option is that we name the foals after who you killed, rule is that from now on, you set a time frame of when you leave til when you come back. Gone any longer by even a day, you’re gonna have to haul plot to make it up to us, both romantically and bedroom wise.”

I smiled weakly. “Of all the mares in the Multiverse, I get pared with the two most beautiful, horny ones of the bunch...besides Rune. You two are NEVER meeting her!” I said jokingly

“Fine, but first off.” Luna and Shy got off the bed and Luna held me on my back with her magic. “Since your punishment, both for being gone too long and killing are being in effect, mare’s rules for the bedroom. Shy, go get the trunk, I’ll get him started.” Fluttershy gave what I could only describe as the most perverted blush I have ever seen as she skipped out the door while Luna got ontop of me. “Time for you to be on the bottom dear.” She cooed in my ear as she started biting it.

It’s going to be a long, long night.

I woke up to the room smelling heavily of last night’s activities. I swear, if it wasn’t for spells I would be broken right now...hell I still hurt after all those spells. I groaned as I sat up between the two loves of my life. “Yeah...Called it. Said I would feel it in the morning.” I said quietly as to not disturb their slumber. Thankfully, the last thing on their mind last night was my eye color and the scar...that would have been a bitch and a half explaining. I trotted downstairs to the kitchen to start and cook breakfast. While Spike may do most of the cooking, who do you think taught the little guy? Sure as hell wasn’t Twilight. I was in the process of finishing the last plate when I heard one of the mares trotting down the steps. “Breakfast!” I yelled as I flipped the pancake from the stove onto the last place with practiced ease.

First to fly down was Fluttershy, a blissful smile plastered across her face. “Yum.” She said sleepily, giving me a quick kiss before sitting down. “If that didn’t knock me up… we go again til you do.” She said, taking a bit of pancake.

“Until my bones are grinded to dust, sure!” I joke.

“That’s the spirit.” She replied, still eating.

“You know, as much as I found the shy Fluttershy cute, I love the open you.” I said as I picked up the other two plates.

“If I was closed what happened last night must have been a dream then.” She joked.

“That is definitely true.” I said with a nuzzle. “I’m going to go wake Luna for breakfast. I’ll be right back down.” Time to face the monster that is Luna in the morning. I trotted back up to our room before gently knocking on it. “Morning Luna, time to get up.” I said in a normal volume.

“One moment.” Her sentence was followed by a thud. I immediately opened the door to see her face down on the floor. “Can’t walk, legs still jelly.” She said.

I held back laughter, but my face must have given me away, I never was good at hiding facial expressions. “Well, do you want to come down and eat with us, or breakfast in bed?”

“With these dirty sheets? Carry me please.”

I let myself chuckle as I came over to help her out. A few minutes of trying to find the right way to hold her, I ended up standing on my hind legs and carrying her bridal style. Normally this would be okay, but this is not, I repeat, not how a pony should naturally walk.

“You know this is not anatomically possible, right?” She asked as we got down the stairs.

“Chalk it up to magic and move on.” I groaned as my legs started to hurt by the time we had gotten down the stairs.

I placed her on her seat next to Fluttershy and I took mine. “So, we already filled out the paperwork for the foals in the area without homes, and from a overcrowded home in Manehattan to be moved here.” Fluttershy said. “They’ll get to see open fields and nature for once.”

“That’ll be good for them… those fields are quite lovely around spring and summer.” I said with a smile. “I just hope they eye doesn’t put them off.”

“Since I’m gonna live here now Celestia is having guards be posted here for day and night watch, so a barracks is being built some blocks away.” Luna said.

“That is a double edged sword. Yeah it means less crime, but if the Heartless try to attack, the guard are pretty much useless and are just more hearts for them.” I made mention. “But at least the foals will feel safe.”

“What about Zeke? Or Justin? Can’t they do something about that?”

“Justin would help me, you two and the rest of us fight them, but Zeke probably wouldn’t get here in time. Also, we are only thirteen ponies, we can’t be everywhere.”

“I mean can’t they give them Keyblades. Justin told us about an inheritance ceremony thing, and Zeke can just hand them out.”

I paused. “True, but wielding a keyblade is different from wielding a average sword.”

“Zeke has a whole world/reflection wielding them, surely our guards can learn also.” Luna added.

“Fine, I'll ask Justin next time I see him.” I said surrendering.

“Other than that you gotta tell Twi and them you’re alive and send a letter to your brother.” Shy added. “Also, Twilight is a princess now.”

“.....How much did I miss?”

“Well, Twilight and Trixie are kinda dating, Rainbow is a wonderbolt, Twilight also beat a massive magic stealing monster, though the keyblades also helped a lot, Discord is dating Celestia, Applejack found out Cure can be used to bring back wilted apples, keeping them fresh longer, and Spike has his own room, also Twilight’s old library was destroyed and replaced with a massive crystal tree castle, and lastly You’re gonna be an uncle cause Shining armor and Cadence are having a baby.” Fluttershy filled me in. “Also they got married, wedding was crashed, the Changeling responsible is now… living with Pinkie Pie, her subjects just kinda around now making lives for themselves.”

“...you know, sometimes I forget one thing about Equestria, all major events happen around the same time. I'm just going to absorb this info and move on before my brain starts to hurt.”

“Not to mention the crystal Empire, or, was Zeke’s Daybreak. Justin actually handled that with Spike’s help, the two are a really big hero duo there.” Luna added.

“That's good for Spike. He always wanted some more recognition. Well, now he has it.” I said with a smile.

“So much happened in three months, it’s crazy.” Fluttershy said. “Well, at least you’re back and things have been quiet for a week so far.”

“Lets just enjoy what time fate has decided to let us have, and not tempt her.” I said as I took a bite of my food.

“So far the only bad thing has been the heartless. They started appearing near town and in most everywhere in Equestria.” Luna said. “Luckily dragon fire is good at getting most of them, save for the fire related ones, so the dragon lands are safe.”

Oathkeeper and Oblivion both decided to appear next to me. “No need to say it you two. After I spend time with my family, we have a job to do.” I said to the two blades before they disappeared again. “So, any other news I should know?”

“Well, we keep getting letters for you.” Fluttershy said. “They’re addressed to you and have no return address.”

“Really? That's odd. Well, if they are so determined to contact me I had better read one after breakfast.” I said, wondering who would want something with me, but not leave a return address.

“They’re in a pile in the living room.” Shy said. “We figured if they’re for you best let you open them.”

“This is going to be a long day…” I said with a faint smile as I looked to the other room seeing a huge pile.

I grabbed one and opened it with magic.

Turn around.

Confused I looked behind me… only to see a brown haired and brown eyed Zeke. “Sup?” He asked.

“Okay, let me get this out of my system because a lot of news were told to me today. Okay...WHAT THE BUCK?!” I said as I looked at the Zeke wannabe. “There we go, all better now.”

“What, you’re a unicorn, you never hear of teleporting?” He asked.

“Not that, the fact that I JUST now read that letter from who knows how long ago and you appear, also you look a hell of a lot like Zeke.” I said bluntly.

“First off, yeah, I know, odd for me to when I met him, also as a god, you have way too much time to kill, so I just kinda waited and watched til finally I sensed the letter open.”

“And you two are okay with this?” I said turning to Luna and Flutters.

“We had no idea he was here.” Luna said.

“Yeah, I watched from my realm, kinda got the whole realms, which to simplify is a multiverse of multiverses, to watch on my TV, cause why not? All fiction written or watched is are certain events in people's lives being put on display, ten bucks says this is being written down right now.”

“Suckers bet. A while ago it felt like and I quote myself, the author of a bad fanfiction couldn't be bothered to write a epic fight scene.”

“Ha! I like you, you broke the fourth wall. Anyway, before Pinkie suddenly shows up for no reason, I am here to offer you Eclipse, aka Colin Ventral, a place in my family as an adopted son. Perks include a curse that makes you genetically my child and whoever your new mother is gonna be, not to say you won’t still have genes from your family already, I read this story, the title and powers of a demigod, then you gain enough power and heroic acts and become a god, god, and endless amount of siblings, and mothers, don’t ask, and other shit I am not mentioning at the moment. Also, names Cript.” Cript finished.

“Okay, Other than liking me for breaking the fourth wall thanks to being around Pinkie Pie too much, why offer me this at all? I barely know you.”

“First off your friends Ben and the Foretellers have already joined on conditions, Zeke is thinking it over, and to add to my family. Always like doing that cause, well, it’s a big family. Also you guys all have interested me, and since my specific god/admin hood keeps me from fighting most threats directly, I can help you this way, or I can just place random yet convenient things around for you to pick up. Heck, I place chests around this one guys world to mess with him.”

I sighed. “Look, we- I mean I appreciate the offer, but everything I am I have earned myself. Maybe with a little help here and there but it was still me.” I think at this moment something disturbed him about my eye for a second. “I'm sorry, but I'll pass. Who knows though, I may change my mind later.” I said in my classic laid back tone.

“If you say so, just call for me or open another letter if you do. Can I give you a gift though?”

“Eh, would be rude of me to turn one down. Sure.” I said with a smile.

“It’s just some advice.” Cript kneeled down and whispered into my ear. “Don’t let that small third voice start shouting.” With that, he disappeared in a blink.

“Well...he kept to his name, that was just cryptic!” I said with some humor.

Just then, a small drum, some drum sticks, and two symbols appeared and did the ‘da-da-dud’ thing. “I guess he liked it?” Fluttershy said as they fell to the floor. “Well… more toys for the foals at least.”

“I guess. Well, that's one way to start off the day. Now lets see what more pandemonium will ensue.”

I told the girls I’d be back around nine or earlier, this was gonna be a long day but I hope not that long, and headed off to Twilight’s new home, which was easy to see in the daytime. It was HUGE! How did I miss it at night even? It’s so… sparkly. I walked up and knocked on the door. “Twilight, are you still reading or did Spike used sleep on you last night?” I yelled.

I heard a lot of stepping and running before the door was thrown open and Spike, the lovable drake he is, tackled me to the ground with a teary hug. “Your back! It is you right?”

I laughed before hugging the dragon. “Yes Spike, I'm home.” it was during thing that I heard a voice being cleared and looked up to see Twilight standing at the door. “Wow Twi, you're as tall as me now. Nice wings.”

She only ran up to me, nearly choking me with her hug. “I thought you were dead you idiot!” She yelled while tears started forming in her eyes.

“Come on Twi, you should know I don't go down easy.” I said before group hugging the two of them. “And I don't plan on leaving anytime soon.”

“Three months beg to differ when you start worrying.” She said, wiping away her tears. “W… where did you get that scar on your neck?”

Leave it to Twilight to see details. I was surprised she didn't notice my eye color yet. “It’s a long story. One that I'll tell you when younger ears are not present.” I said with a quick glance to Spike who was busy hugging me.

“Alright.” She said, letting go. “So, when did you get back?”

“Last night. Luna and Fluttershy chewed me out already and have punished me in their own way.” I said causally.

“Oh, alright then. So they told you about… everything?” She asked.

“They gave me the summary. Man, all those events in only three months?!”

“I know, it’s been hectic. So then they told you about Trixie and I?”

“Yeah, and all I can say is took you two long enough! Seriously, it was obvious for me for a while! The sexual tension was through the roof!”

She blushed. “Yeah, we both figured that being… bi, we might add a stallion later on if we can find a nice one.” She admitted. “So, other than that we’re gonna be an aunt and an uncle!” She said, quickly cheering up.

“I heard! Can’t wait to see Shining after so long! And a uncle? I call dibs on the fun loving one!”

“You dork.” She said, play punching me. “So, I’ll write a letter to mom and dad saying you finally came back. I’ll just tell them for now you were with Zeke or something.”

“Sounds good. I don't think they'll enjoy hearing how I started my Mark of Mastery.” I said honestly.

“Wait, our parents or Zeke?”

“Our parents. It's...the reason Spike won't be in the room when I tell you how I got the scar.”

“Alright. So, Trixie is out getting some stuff, you gonna be here for a while or you got things to do?”

I smiled. “Unless something comes up, I don't plan on leaving anytime soon.”

“Great, come on in, there’s some soda’s and stuff from Zeke’s reflection Justin gave out and they taste amazing!”

I chuckled and followed her in with a Spike riding on my back. “So, the orphanage is opening either today or tomorrow.”

“Fluttershy said the foals should be there by tomorrow, so tomorrow I guess.” Twilight replied from the fridge. “Catch.” She said, tossing me a caned… Dr. Pepper. “These are my favorite so far.” She said, taking on out to.

“Don't question it Eclipse, just don't question it.” I said to myself as I popped open the can. “So, how's being officially royalty?”

“Surprisingly dull. Since Celestia and her courts handle all the major paperwork in Equestria I just kinda hang out with my friends, Luna, and Trixie of course. We’ve… gone that far already.”

“I'm happy for you two.” I said smiling “How's been Sorin and Guilda holding up? They still show up for practice?”

“Dating and getting fined with public indesidy cause sex on clouds.” She replied casually. “They just need a room already.”

“Who knows Twi, They may be exobisionists. They do exist.” I said as if we were talking about the weather.

“Har har. Anyway, other than what Fluttershy and Luna already told you the only minor things are that those Heartless are getting more and more common, some… new ones… have also appeared.”

“New ones?” I said leaning forward.

“Part human like Justin and them, part Heartless, like the two are fused together, and some pony ones too…. We try to capture them, but they can teleport with their darkness, so they always get away. We’re trying not to kill them in case they can be cured.”

“Core is probably behind that.” I said with a growl.

“Justin figured also. Oh yeah, guess who he’s dating now.”

“Wait, Justin as a date in our reflection?”

“Yeah, he’s dating Chearlee. The two hit it off really well. Not sure how… you know, sex works there, but I guess that’s between them.”

“Huh...didn't expect that. Well they are both teachers so I guess it makes sense.” I said with a shrug. “So I hear Chrysalis is living with Pinkie?”

“Yeah. Her people were starving so Justin vouched to help them after it was revealed that she wasn’t Cadence. After some tests and trial and errors we found a way to give them a ‘Love substitute’ in the form of a special mana infused powder we can bake, and since it’s flavorless you can’t tell you get one heck of a mana jump til you cast a spell.”

“That's awesome! Well, glad things have been looking up so far.” I said with a grin. In reality, Wolf and I were both worried. It is normally when things look bright that something bad pops up, and we couldn't shake that feeling.

“So, other than a few things mom and dad said they have an announcement to make to you, me, and Shining later when we can all make it to Canterlot.”

“Really? I wonder what it could be...well we are just going to have to find out later now won't we?” I said as I finished my soda.

“Yeah. The letter didn’t say much only that we should come by before the end of the month.”

“Heh, it's almost like they knew I would show up about now. Well, we’ll plan with Shining and our own lovers to try and visit. Besides, I haven't seen mom and dad is gods...ever.”

“I know, last time I saw them at Shining’s wedding they were so happy for him, and hoped when you came back you’d be getting hitched soon.”

“Heh...little do they know their sons have a thing for princesses.” I joke. “And Fluttershy is so much better now she has broken out of her shell. I loved her before, but I love her even more now.”

“Yeah, stuff has happened and she really has grown into a strong pony, she still has her shy moments but not nearly as bad as when we first came here. Man… feels just like yesterday when we moved here, I was being such a bitch to everyone thinking I only needed you, Shining, and Spike. I honestly don’t know how my other reflections have survived without you being their twin.”

“Heh, well, I try.” I said scratching the back of my head. “Sadly I wasn't here all those times you could have used me. I wish I didn't have to take that Mark of Mastery if it meant I could have helped.”

“To be honest maybe it was for the best. With all that’s happened we had to rely on ourselves and not you. We got stronger because of it.”

“That's good. I still wish I could have helped but at least there is a silver lining.” I said. “Anything else you want to talk about?”

“Well that’s it for the most part. That does about wrap up all that happened so not much else to tell.”

“Well, at least I'm here now. I mean, I missed my brother’s wedding, I am not missing his kid being born.”

“The baby isn’t born yet dummy, it takes eight months for that, though, I wonder if Cadence being an alicorn has any effects about birth that are changed?”

“Knowing our family? Probably.” I said bluntly. “Hell they didn't even know I was there until the day we were born. Said it was like I popped into existence.”

“Technically you did.” Twilight said, patting my back. “And I was so lucky to be there when you did.”

I smiled as I felt our bond. I explained this earlier but whenever Twilight is close, I can feel our bond as siblings. It is hard to truly explain but it makes me happy none of the less. “And I was lucky to be born into this amazing, if crazy, family.”

“Yeah. What are the odds, my two brothers marry princesses, become princes, and I do something that I get turned into a princess. Heh, life’s odd.”

“I chalked it up to a whole lot of good karma. Besides, Luna and I are not married yet….though I plan to fix that soon.” I said with a small smile.

“Dibs on being the witness!”

“Ha! As long as you learn from Pinkie how to hide, sure!” I said with a chuckle.

“Either way I am confused about something.”

“What is it Twi?”

“Why is your eye a different color? I mean, when we were little and you’d get mad I saw it change sometimes but I thought I was just seeing things. Now it is red.”

“That...I guess I can tell you now.” I said patting Spike on the head. “Long story short, I stopped denying my darkness. I accepted it as a part of me and who I am and as a reminder in a sense, I have this.” I said, pointing to my eye. “This was my natural eye color as a human, though it does not represent anything good.”

“Huh… Well, at least you made peace with… yourself? Anyway, you should go show Vinyl that, she’s the only other pony I know with red eyes so her seeing you would make her day.”

“I bet! Besides, I owe her a drink after losing that bet a while ago.”

“Better late than never to pay it back.”

“No kidding. Well, I should probably tell the others I'm back in town. Besides, I need to buy a horn ring for Luna and a marriage necklace for Fluttershy.”

“Good idea. I’ll head over to the orphanage and I’ll be waiting. Till then you go do your things, oh, and if you see Trixie tell her where I went.”

“Will do! And Spike, I need you to keep quiet. I'll get you a sugar diamond while I'm out if you do k?” The little guy saluted me as he ran over to Twilight.

We headed our separate ways. First on my list was getting those marriage jewelry pieces. I headed up to the only jewelry store in town and asked for anything that looks amazing to give to mares you were gonna propose to. The clerk smiled, bringing out a rather wide selection of options. For Luna I got her a horn ring with a blue diamond and white diamond cut to look like a crescent moon, and for Shy I picked a emerald and pink diamond cut and designed to look like a flower was growing out of it, or on it anyway. They were pricy but this was for them and I had the money. I got them boxed and bagged and headed off, where I bumped into Trixie. “Oh, Eclipse?!” Trixie said in surprise.

“Hey Trix, how's it been?” I said with a smile “Took you long enough to ask Twilight out.”

“Heh, she asked me out actually. But it’s good to see you finally back. I’m gonna assume you were already told about everything that happened?”

“Pretty much. I was just buying some stuff to purpose to Luna and Flutters.”

“Oh, that’s amazing! Congrats. Twi and I want to find a decent stallion before marrying, though every stallion in Ponyville is either paired up, perverted, or gay so it’s been… not easy.”

“Ah you two will find the lucky guy eventually.” I said smiling. “I just noticed you stopped speaking in third person, congrats!”

“Oh, yeah. After Twilight and I started dating I just… stopped. Nowadays I only speak like that when I get angry, old habits. Been a showmare for so long I now realized how self centered and stupid talking like that was.”

“Heh, well, You've changed for the better in my opinion. Oh and also Twilight is at the orphanage with Luna, Shy and Spike. She wants to be the witness.”

“Oh, I better head over then. I was just picking up some of the supplies from Justin. Daybreak seems to be doing good, even with what happened to Zeke.”

“What happened to Zeke?” I ask worried.

“Not sure. Justin just said that he was found falling out of a DTD with his legs missing. From what I figured it was a bad scene.”

I had to control myself from opening a DTL and checking up on him. “Well, I'm sure he’s alright.”

“Yes actually. News recently is that he has some kinda metal legs now that act no different than the old ones, so he can walk again.”

“That's good. Well, I had better finish saying hi to everypony before I head back.”

“Applejack is at her stall so that’s another pony off your checklist. I’ll be off then.” Trixie said as we parted ways.

Finding Applejack was easy, her stall is always in the same place. When she spotted me she gave me a smile. “Well na’ look who came back from the dead.”

“Ha I never died AJ. But yeah, I'm back!” I said trotting over to the stand.

“Well glad ta’ know you are alright. Luna and Shy was real worried about you.”

“Yeah, I know. I'm planning on proposing later on today.”

“Well shoot, now ah’ owe Rainbow thirty bits. Well, congratulations anyway. Seems like everypony but Pinkie, Rarity, Rainbow and I are lucky in love.”

“Ah you’ll find somepony. Besides, with RD didn't she say no to Sorin before I left? Also, you two were betting on me?”

“Yeah, was wondering if you’d propose or would Luna have to step up and do it. Also, maybe. Honestly Rainbow wants somepony who can beat her in a fight or race, and Pinkie, Rarity and I all plan on trying to jump on Twilight’s herd if she finds somepony.”

“Surprised Rainbow doesn't challenge every single stallion during heat week in that case. Anyways, I just came to say ‘hey I'm alive’ and to see how you're doing.”

“Well I’m doin fine. Pinkie and Crysalis should be at Sugarcube Corner, Rarity is likely in her shop and Rainbow isn’t here, she went to Cloudsdale for a Wonderbolts tournaments.”

“She really has achieved her dream. Well, she's going to be jealous that she was the last to see me back.”

“Maybe. I still gotta run the stall, you head on to everypony else then.”

“Will do AJ. Say hi to the family for me!” I said as I headed out.

I walked over to Sugarcube Corner, where I was met with the odd sight of queen Chrysalis in an apron behind the counter. “Welcome to Sugarcube Corner, what would you like?” She said with a small smile.

“Hey I'm a friend of Pinkie’s, could you tell her Eclipse is back?” I asked smiling back.

“Oh, you’re Eclipse?”

“Yeah, nice to meet you. Chrysalis right?”

“Yes. I was told a lot about you.”

“All the good things I hope!” I said with a laugh.

“Mostly. I’ll go get Pinkie, you wait here.” She walked up the stairs, coming back down with Pinkie.

“Hi Eclipse!” Pinkie said, waving.

“Hey Pinkie! How's been Ponyville's resident energy ball?” I said trotting over to her.

“Been super!” She said, jumping up and down. “Having Chrysalis for a roommate has been interesting to say the least.”

“Same can be said about you, you know?” Chrysalis said. “It’s definitely nicer than the hive, but Pinkie pretty much keeps life interesting if nothing else.”

“That our Pinkie for yah! Oh and Pinkie, I plan on proposing to Luna and Shy when I get back home, want to plan the party?”

Her response was pulling out a rather large book from nowhere. “I’ve been planning your bachelor party for, well, since you got here!”

“Oh and Pinkie, I kinda picked up on the whole fourth wall thing.” I said, much to Chrysalis's confusion.

“Oh goodie! That means the chapter is going to have a twist!”

“Probably. Anyways, you’re on the case, and you know I'm back. Nice seeing you again and nice to meet you Chrysalis!”

“Same?” Chrysalis said, shaking her head. “I either got to go insane to get used to this or ignore it.”

I headed off, making my way to Rarity’s boutique. Upon entering I was met with a room completely packed with crates and other such things. Man, she’s been busy. After a bit, Rarity came down. “Welcome to- Eclipse! Darling it’s so good to see you back! Also, please refrain from breaking down any walls.”

“Heh, I said I was sorry!” I laugh as she came over.

“Well still, you ruined some dresses I had made for an important client so I spent the next two days remaking them. Anyway, what brings you by, well, other than to check up I guess. I’m a tad busy so I don’t have much time.”

“Other than checking up, to tell you I'm proposing to Luna and Fluttershy.”

Before I could blink I was being measured by her. “Darling why didn’t you say so sooner! We must get you three properly dressed for the special day!”

“What about your other clients?”

“I got three days, this is a wedding between my friend, a princess, and my friends brother, I am not letting this pass me by!”

“Wait, we are not friends?” I ask faking hurt.

“You broke half of my showroom and didn’t even help pay for it.” She deadpanned. “Let’s just say those weeks it was being rebuilt I downgraded you from friend to acquaintance.”

“Well, sorry about that. I kinda have been none stop. Could I make it up to you?” I asked. Hey, as much as I give her slack, she is...was one of my friends. Don't judge me.

“Well, for starters you can pay back the five hundred bits it took to rebuilt my walls and showroom. Secondly… can you keep Pinkie, Applejack and I for when Twilight finds a stallion for her herd? We’re gonna try and jump on board with it.”

“Applejack told me about that so I'll see what I can do. And about the bits…” I pulled out some Munny. “I used most of it buying the engagement ring and necklace. Can I pay you back with this, or can it wait until I get some more bits rolling in?”

“This will do, it’s all gold after all.” Rarity said as she took the munny. “So when will the wedding be?” She asked as she walked over to her fabric shelves.

“Well, soon just in case another event happens. But in general I have to plan it with Luna and Fluttershy.”

“When you propose how much you bet Celestia will fund it and Cadence will try and plan it?”

“Suckers bet.” I said with a smile.

“Most likely.” She said, grabbing some black and red fabrics. “So, do you know how many foals are being sent to your new orphanage?”

“Not an exact number. I know we are getting some from Manehattan as well as a few from Ponyville it's self.”

She walked back over to me with some supplies and fabrics, and started to cut sheets of the fabric. “Well as far as I know most foal in Ponyville without a proper home live at town hall til an orphanage can take them in, you could likely get an idea of what to expect by going there. So, is this orphanage going to have a school in it or are they going to go to Chearlee for education?”

“The mares talked it out with Chearlee and she was more than happy to teach some more foals. As long as they were not as bad as the CMC.”

“I love my sister but she was quite the troublemaker before she finally got her cutie mark. Hard to believe her and her friends all got them for the same thing.”

“Those kids finally got their cutie marks? That's great for them!”

“Yes, last month actually. It was a grand party to celebrate. They also made peace with Diamond Tiara and she’s now such a nice filly.”

“I never thought I’d hear those words. Well, unless you need any help I should head out.”

“I got your measurements so I can finish up, tell Luna and Fluttershy to come over so I can make the dresses.”

“Will do! And thanks Rarity. I hope you finally find that lucky stallion with the other girls.”

“Same.”

With that I was heading out. That was everypony other than Rainbow, but who knows when she’ll be back. I checked the time on a street clock and it was only four in the afternoon. Huh, I expected this to take longer. I was in Ponyville’s downtown area, just walking around to see what else had changed. “Get away from me!” I heard somepony yell. Welp, that’s my que.

I wrapped the bag in my magic before teleporting it to my trunk at home, then I summoned Oathkeeper and Oblivion and ran towards the yelling as breakneck speeds. “Get ready you two.”

As I turned the corner I saw Vinyl being carried by… the pony and human heartless fusions Twilight told me about. “Let go you freaks!” Vinyl yelled.

“Vinyl! Stay still!” I yelled as I felt my blood starting to pump. A smile made it's way onto my face as I charged at the heartless fusions.

One, a pony fusion, left the group to meet me. As I closed in to struck, to my surprise, it blocked my attack… with a Keyblade. “Back off!” It yelled, somehow pushing me back some feet.

I grinned. Finally, a challenge! “Not happening!” I yelled as I threw Oathkeeper into a strike raid and charged up Oblivion for a timed strike.

It grabbed Oathkeeper, striking it into the ground as it appeared in front of me and spin bucked me into the ground. “We’re only after the mare pal.”

I started to laugh as Wolf appeared on top of the heartless with Oathkeeper. “And we can't allow that.” He said as he brought Oblivion down into the heartless.

I saw the heartless bellding. Wait, they're fused! Right. The heartless kicked wolf off, it’s eye’s glowing yellow now. “Screw you too then.” To my surprise, DTDs opened up as shadow Wolf’s and me’s crawled out and started attacking in mass hoards.

“Heh, ready for this Wolf?”

“You know the answer.” He growled as one of his eyes whites turned black. We both cut through the shadows with some small difficulty.

“It'll take more than fakes to kill me!” I yell as I stopped attacking the shadows, tanking the bits as I charged at the one holding Vinyl. It hurt like Hell but she needed to escape first.

They dodged, and I noticed one of them was holding some kinda slug looking thing in it’s hand. “Get her ready!” THe one with the keyblade yelled, him and Wolf locked in blades. I ran back to hit the slug, but the held Vinyl in my way as they forced the slug down her throat. “We’re done, let’s get!” The keyblade one said as they all exited in DTDs, leaving Vinyl on the ground.

“Damn it all! A Mark of Mastery and I still am not strong enough!” I yelled as I ran over to check on Vinyl, Wolf fading into me as I crouched beside her.

Vinyl’s skin was getting pale, well paler than she always was. “D...d...daddy?” She muttered.

“Vinyl, it's me Eclipse! I need you to stay awake, okay?” I said before summoning Oathkeeper. “Curaga!”

As she opened her eyes, they were glowing a yellowish white and she looked just behind my head. “Daddy!” She said. Confused, I looked behind me, seeing a massive man in a suit of metal with a drill arm that side swiped me across into a building. I got up fast and saw Vinyl climb on top of the thing’s back, now holding some kinda large needle. “Get him daddy!”

Fuck...damn it damn it damn it! “What the fuck did you do to her!?” I growled as I felt my skin practically crawl.

The thing, ‘daddy’ as Vinyl was now calling it, the lights in it’s helmet went from yellow to red as it charged at me… fast! I managed to dodge, but it crashed into the building and walked out like nothing. “Don’t let the angel get away!” Vinyl said.

Wait….where have I seen this before. And those lines are familiar. Now is not the time! I charged at “daddy” “Thundaja!” I shout as I pinpoint the exact spot I wish to strike as to not hurt Vinyl.

The ‘daddy’ seemed to throw Vinyl off before my attack hit as it took the impact. So it’s protecting her? I charged at it while it was paralized, landing some hits but after it started moving again it roared, charging at me and this time hitting me, bringing me right into a tree that fell over after it hit me into it. Damn that hurt! I winced as it was walking back over to Vinyl.

“I'm not done yet big guy!” I shouted. I raised both Keyblades and shouted “MEGA FLARE!” as two shot out each keyblade, much to my body’s protests.

They hit, and when the light fades ‘daddy’ was still standing, roared again, and charged back at me. What the hell does it take to kill this thing?!?!

Wolf appeared next to me. “Your out of it. Let me take over. Don't worry, I'll try to keep collateral damage to a minimal.”

“Fine. Just don't hurt Vinyl!”

“I got it!” he shouted before charging at the ‘daddy'.

Wolf was fast, landing hits without being hit much, but this thing hits like a tank. After some time I noticed that Vinyl was watching from a sideline, cheering for ‘daddy’ and I was limping over to her. “So when did Bioshock become a thing here?” I looked up, seeing Cript stand next to me. “Man those Big Daddy’s hit like tanks.”

“No idea and you're telling me.” I wince as I continue to limp towards Vinyl.

“So you know how to make her normal… ish, right?” Cript asked, walking next to me.

“Other than not killing her? I...I can't remember. It’s been over 18 years.”

“Man you need to remember this, there is always a third option, and if you don’t see it, make it. Here.” Cript handed me a bottle with some red liquid in it. “You’ll be able to make her normal, but I can’t take the thing out of her, admin rules are a bitch. As long as she doesn’t… well, she’s a modified ‘little’ sister so not sure what she extracts.”

“Hey Cript...thanks.”

“I said I can at most place items and such for convenience at most so…” He placed the bottle on the ground. “Convenient item.” WIth that, he left in a blink.

I picked it up before continuing my journey to Vinyl. Man, my everything hurts right now….just a little farther.

When I get close enough I downed the bottle, memory served me right, my DNA being redone was a bitch. Wolf finally killed the Big Daddy, and before Vinyl could run over to the corpse, I grabbed her, touching her forehead with my hoof as she and my arm glowed white. There was a flash of light as suddenly I felt… calmer? Wolf came over. “Dude, whatever you took out of her, hurt me.” He said.

“Sorry Wolf. Was not the intention, but it saved her at least right?” I said panting.

“Yeah, but I’m your dark half, what was in her was a fuck ton of light despite how she looked, so I felt it.”

“I'm sorry. Here, you can have primary control next time we are in the bedroom, deal?” I said, trying to find a compromise.

“Sure, Fluttershy’s darkness is the most sexy thing I have ever seen, and Nightmare Moon is coming around a bit to being like you and I with Luna, Shy’s is already is good with… herself? This morning’s breakfast proved that.”

“I guess it has. Well, could you come back real fast? Vinyl’s coming to.” I said as the mare in question groaned.

Wolf went back inside as Vinyl started waking up. “Ugh…. Why do I have a sudden craving for milk and joy?” She asked as she got up.

“No clue, but what do you remember?” I asked as I stood up beside her.

“I remember… That nasty slug going down my throat, then everything felt… like I was alone, Everything around me looked so nice and pretty, but I felt alone… till.” She looked over to the Big Daddy. “He came along… I… I was in his head… he only had me and my safety on his mind. I was all that was in his head…” Vinyl looked sad. “He had no name, or even the slightest memories of anything before that slug got shoved into me. Heh, instant dad. Wish my actual dad was as willing to protect as him, my dad left my mom before I was born.”

“I..I’m sorry to hear that...heh, funny, I can relate in a strange way.” I said with a sad smile as I turned to the Big Daddy. “I do respect him, even if he nearly killed me he made sure you were safe before anything.”

“So… this slug stuck in me forever?”

“I...don’t know. I know I could extract it one way , but that way will kill you, though I was told that I can….hmm.” I said as I started to brainstorm, not realising my red eye glowed for a flash.

“I… think I’ll keep it.” Vinyl said, snapping me out if my thoughts.

“You sure?”

“I know it sounds odd, but if… if what happened to me, I could some how… control it, stay partly me, I can control the daddies I connect to. Would help in the long run, right?”

I sighed and smiled. “I guess it would. And I’ll be here to snap you out of it again if it doesn’t.”

“Thanks… Say, where did you get red eyes?”

“Long story, they are my natural eye color. I accepted myself and now I have them again.” I said, giving her the cliff notes version.

“Sweet. Well, guess I better keep this.” Vinyl said, picking up the needle. “I remember seeing… you, but you had these… large white and black wings floating above your back… when I held this I… had this instinct to want to jab it into you. Freaky how a single slug can change you so much huh?”

“Well, that also explains why you said ‘Get the angel’ during the fight.” I said with a laugh.

“I said that? Corny.” Vinyl rolled her eyes. “Still, I guess I can help out now that I… got this thing going on with me. Odds I can also get a Keyblade?”

“Well..I don’t see why not?” I summoned Oathkeeper and Oblivion and held them out to her. “Go ahead, grab one, or both if you want.”

She took hold of Oblivion’s grip. “Now what? Sing kumbaya?”

“Heh, not quite.” I said before I started to say the Keyblade Inheritance ceremony. After it was done, Vinyl let go. “That’s about it.”

“Corny, but fits I guess. So what ne-” Vinyl was cut off when her needle started to glow, changing shape and growing to the size of Oblivion. When the light faded, the Keyblade that was there was…Interesting. “Well… it fits.” Vinyl said, waving it around. “I like it, looks deadly.”

“Only if you intent it to be. A keyblade will only do as much damage as you want it to. I could hit you as hard as I can, but unless I intend to kill or maim you, you would just be winded or knocked out.” I said. “Now, two things. Now that you have this, normal heartless will target you over random ponies. Two, you now have to learn how to wield it. Either I will teach you, since you are now technically my apprentice, or Justin will.”

“I think I’ll go with Justin, no offence, but I’ve seen you two fight and he’s the professional.”

“Well, yeah. He's also the teacher of us on this world. Besides, I didn't want to have to pay for the entire town being replaced. Man, a day for me isn't complete without getting my ass handed to me it seems.” I said, stretching.

“Just another day in the life of Ponyville it seems. Well, I’ll go find him and let him know I’m his new student, then let Tavi know I got wrapped up in your lifes problems. Later.” Vinyl said as she trotted off.

“Later. And sorry about all this!” I call out to her. Damn. Well, at least I have the proposal to look forward to at least. I glanced to the clock and sighed. The fight took about thirty minutes of my life away. Now what to do…

With not much else to do I headed off for a restaurant, it seemed new since I don’t remember it being here before I went to take my exam. It was darkly lit, very… atmospheric. I was placed at a seat in an even darker corner, finding it odd that other than the staff, I was the only one here. “Glad you could make it.” I looked next to me… and felt my heart stop. Core, and Josh were in my booth. “Don’t bother screaming, this… place exists half in the realm of darkness, leave without my say so, you’re stuck here.” Core said.

“I don't know about screaming…” I saw a slight shine of red on the wall next to me as I growled. “But fighting is more my style.”

Core sighed, quickly tapping my horn and suddenly, my body went limp. “I’m here to talk not fight idiot. We both know if I was here to kill you, you’d be dead already.”

I glared at him. I couldn't move my body, but half of my wanted to end him now. I...I was confused as hell about my other half as even Wolf mentioned being confused. It...didn't want to fight. And it made me angrier. “Fine, talk. More foreshadowing and gloating?”

“More like information gathering. As you know we recently implanted a special slug within the Vinyl Scratch of this world as a test to see about the modifications we made for them.”

“Yeah, a little bird mentioned something about them being modified.”

“Ah yes, the god Cript. How easy it would be for him to snap my neck… I know a lot about him since I obtained powers of Void. I may not be strong at all compared to him, but I still know how he became that strong. Care to join in?”

“Why not.” I looked up, seeing Cript take a seat. “So, first off, Core, fuck you, Josh, screw you, and third, Eclipse, you feeling okay?”

“Tired and unable to move. Other than that, just peachy.” I said, my voice having a slight echo.

“Well anyway, Core. Tell me this, why do you try to summon a Psychopath?” Cript asked, his tone serious.

“One foot in the door.” Core replied. “As you know, to obtain powers beyond anything we could ever imagine, we require either a grand pain, or a grand gift. We both know you received grand pain to get where you started, quickly followed by grand gifts from the man you once knew as a being above god that you know call friend.”

“And now the two most Op as fuck beings I now are chatting.” I said to Josh despite my better judgement.

“We all know power and energies mean creation go around, some beings being made of chosin to be placed in charge of that special power. I’m known as the human god for several reasons. Mainly because of my origins. You Core, are just lost. You fell into darkness to chase the one you lost, now you listen to whispers of power from evils older than your realm.”

“Ah, age. How if can turn anything into whatever it desires, shaping both good and evil to it’s will. You see Cript, this here is the difference between you, your friend, and other gods, even beings like me. I’ve had time to know where I want to be exactly, to learn who I truly am… You have not.”

“And that deals with me how? Seriously Core, if you wanted to talk to him, I could have handed you a letter. I do not see how I fit here.” I said, getting increasingly more uncomfortable in my own skin.

“It’s his way of letting you know that, despite everything he’s done, you can gain unimaginable power shortly. Eclipse, I’m almost twenty years old, and I started my journey at the age of twelve.” Cript explained.

“....how do you have that many wives and kids at only twenty?” I said the first thing coming to mind.

“First off, my first wife keeps gathering more, for why it’s a kink of hers, and the kids is well, god children can be born in… well, there can be lots born or one born and the fact I can make clones of myself identical in every way, including power, lets them all… have me...”

“I was about to say...damn.”

Wolf decided he had enough and came out of me “Okay fine, we can gain power fast if we know how. Why tell us that?” He snarled at Core.

“Simple.” Core said. “I am looking forward to you joining Cript’s family, the stronger you are, the sooner I can summon the Psychopath… and then become one.”

“That much power will drive you mad.” Cript warned. “I’ve been in their minds, you have to be both sane, and insane at once to not just become an Insanity. That’s something as strong as a Psychopath, but far more far gone. Psychopaths at least retain their intelligence.”

“You want to summon something like that? I think he is insane already, it would destroy you to idiot.” Wolf and I said together.

“Yet here Cript sits.” Core said. “How old Cript? How old were you when you became a Psychopath?”

“... Thirteen.”

“And what did you do before you broke free?”

“... the mars colony was slaughtered, that thing made me feel and watched all those deaths.”

“And what was every reflection of you?”

“... an Insanity or Psychopath.”

“So tell me, what does that make Zeke, and the Ventral family?”

“From what I found out, the Ventrals, including you Eclipse, are infected with powerful Psychopath blood, that’s what triggers your killing moods.”

“Yes. Red eyed Ventrals can have many from what I’ve learned, each one more uncontrollable than the last. While Eclipse here is now a tainted subject, Zeke is still perfectly fine.”

“Tainted, is that what you think?!” I said with a growl, trying to get my body to move. Oh how the thought of beating him was so appealing right now!

“Yes, tainted. You now are more likely to become an Insanity with thoughts like that.” He read my fucking mind?! “So that leaves Zeke, the newest of your Reflection’s to appear, isn’t that right?” Core asked Cript, who only looked down.

“Zeke is Cript's reflection? Makes sense I suppose, They do look alike and have gained a shit ton of power is a short time.”

“You haven’t been listening Eclipse.” Cript said, not looking up yet. “Every other of my reflections existed to be a Psychopath, or an Insanity… Zeke having the Psychopath blood in him, if his Killing Mood activates… he will become a Psychopath.”

“You obviously doubt the power of plot armor.”

“That’s why I’m here Eclipse, If he takes a place in my family, I can teach him to best control that… monster. Even if our existence is nothing more than a fairytale, this is our world, our reality. To a reader, a death is something to be sad about, but to us, the deaths are permanent unless you have methods of working around them. I have, but even so, everything ends, Core wants Zeke to become a Psychopath so he can speed up the process.”

“Other than using Zeke, wasn't that already his goal? Besides, don't worry to much.” I said with a smile I hoped they couldn't tell was forced “I've learned to just let things happen. As long as me or one of the other survivors still breath, Core here will need to watch his back.” I said, looking said asshole in the eye.

“Maybe. But still, Cript here can speak from experience, even though he now is among the biggest fish in the ocean, there are still fish like him that will love to end this world as much as I do. After all, not every Admin is happy with you, right?”

“How did you?” Cript asked.

“I have my sources.”

“You may not be strong, but you are a clever bastard, I’ll admit that.” Cript got up. “Just remember this, even though I can’t fight most battles for you guys, I can still deal with the Psychopaths. Watch yourself Core, you become one, you will be my next target.”

“I look forward to it.” Core waved as Cript vanished. “Now, about my plans for you Eclipse.”

“Why is dad here.” I interrupted. “I don't think he would normally sit still and listen to two people bicker and debate.”

“Not quite pip squeak.” Josh tore off a piece of his shirt, the number 4,000 tattooed on it. “Clone.”

“You still have his mind do you not? I rest my case.”

“Yes and no. You see, knowing you’re a copy made to die as cannon fodder really… puts your existence into perspective. I am Josh number 4,000. I’m as skilled as the original of the memories I’m made from, but I exist to keep you and the others on your toes, or hooves in this case. We’ll keep coming and soon enough as hundreds of me fall thousands will follow all in the name of making you strong enough for Core to summon his Psychopath, and if you don’t fight, don’t kill me, well, say by by to your happiness and now orphanage mutt.”

I snapped at that as I broke what ever spell was on me and stood up. “You dare touch anyone other than me who lives there, I don't care if you are a copy. I will kill you all until I go insane, just to keep killing. I don't give a shit that you are family, just leave mine out of this!”

“That’s just it Eclipse.” Core said as a DTD opened behind me. “Everyone you meet is already a part of this.” He shoved me though, and I was outside the restaurant. I ran back inside, only to find it looking like an abandoned building.

“Damn him!” I shouted as my blood boiled. No one threatens my family, no one! I glanced at the clock as I tried to refrain from smashing the building here and now.

Wait. I double checked the clock. Crap! 8:45! I hoofed it back to the orphanage, and upon entering I saw Luna and Shy in the livingroom. “Two minutes to spare, cutting it close.” Luna said.

“Sorry. First those heartless fusions showed up, then I had to fight basically a possessed Vinyl. Then Core showed up...yeah just counting my lucky stars right now.”

“Come here.” Fluttershy said as I trotted over to her as she hugged me. “Busy day, you need some relaxing.”

“Heh, No time to relax just yet.” I said, quickly lighting my horn and teleporting the proposal items into my jacket. “After all, we have a big day tomorrow!” I said, hugging her back.

The two looked at me. “Yeah, the orphans are arriving. So, what was that teleport spell?” Luna asked.

“Oh nothing, just something I almost forgot.” I said with a cheeky smile. “If it makes you feel better you are going to find out in about...thirty seconds.”

“Well if it’s that important the others who came by are in the kitchen so let’s call them.”

“Yes, that should take about twenty five seconds!” I said, trying to steel myself up. Oh boy this is so scary. I would rather be fighting Core blindfolded without a weapon than if the small chance they say no comes true.

We went into the kitchen. Surprisingly everyone was here, even Rainbow. When did she get back? “Everypony, and Justin, Eclipse here has something he wants to say.” Luna said as everypony stopped with the cooking.

Here's go nothing. I gulp as I turn to Luna and Shy...and do the pony equivalent to getting on one knee. “Luna, Fluttershy, you two mares are the most beautiful mares I have ever met, both inside and out. You two have dealt with me being constantly gone, and have even mostly understood my reasons when few would. You both have accepted me, good and bad, and I can never repay you for that.You both are my heart, and even though I don't have to do this...I want to.” I said, pulling out the two boxes in my magic and opening them. “Will you both marry me?”

The room was silent, Luna and Shy staring at me with wide eyes. After a solid half minute, they took the jewelry, Luna putting her ring on and Fluttershy putting the necklace on. “We do.” The two said simultaneously. As they came up to kiss and hug me, I had a rather strange vision. It was Wolf, being hugged by Nightmare Moon and a red maned and tailed Fluttershy. Looks like those three are happy too.

I am not afraid to say I teared up a bit in joy. “I love you two.”

The whole room was suddenly loud with claps and cheers. “Congrats bro!” Spike called.

“In your words, it’s about time.” Twilight said.

I laughed as I wiped my eyes. “Well, it was.”

“I’m so glad you have happiness darling.” Rarity said.

“Oh, there’s a package for you Eclipse.” Fluttershy said, quickly running out and grabbing a small box. “Came not long before you got here.”

“Heh, that’s Ponyville for you, everything happening in one day.” I said as I started to open it.

I opened the box, inside was a gold ring with… my mother's name engraved on it. And a letter.

Eclipse, Colin, whatever, this is the one act I’m doing as a father. That ring I was going to give to your mom… but those assholes shot before I entered the room. I was there and yes, I’m evil as fuck, but now that you have found love, that’s something the clones don’t understand cause Core removed that vital virtue of us. Keep this and remember, we work for him, but Core is the one pulling strings, his clones, as they put it, cannon fodder. They are not human, they are what he made them to be, loyal and uncaring. I can’t leave… maybe not yet at least. This ass hat… I know I did bad things, but… look, only your grand dad and cousin Dillen are following him to a T, the rest of us are just trying to get by under his command. I’m… not happy you killed a family member, frankly, that’s something we joke about a lot in the Ventral family.
We act like we’re about to murder each other, and right at the last moment we laugh it off. That’s… likely what she was trying to do, a family way of getting to know you, but you didn’t know so don’t go hating yourself more for that. Fact is, I wasn’t even gonna kill Zeke, that was all scare tactics that failed horribly. Now… well, just remember, we’re on opposite sides, but we’re still family. God… that day at your mom's funeral… I just saw her in you and I couldn’t handle it. I was a coward, I admit that, but trust me when I say this. You have family here, when shit starts going down, we’ll be switching sides faster than you can say ‘family’.

I smiled as I read the letter. A hole that I didn't realise was empty felt like it was filling. “Don't worry dad...Being the cause of the death of one family member was enough. By the time this is over...maybe we can make up some how.” I placed the letter back inside with the box and nodded to the others. “Just a gift from family.” I said as I walked over to the mantle of the fireplace and out the box there. “Until I have something better to put them in…”

Eclipses Home For Younf Keyblade Wielders

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I spent the rest of the night with those I care about. Core’s words nagged at the back of my mind, but unlike his intention, the thought of any who meet me being in danger. It drives me to want to protect them even that much more. After they constantly asked me to, I showed them the ring and explained the basics of what is was. This brought a few more hugs but I simply smiled and told them it was okay. The girls had promised Rarity that they would be over tomorrow during their free time to get measured. After all, we have a ton of kids to take care of starting tomorrow.

Prior to my promise, I let Wolf have the reins that night. Because it is too soon to tell whether or not the mares are pregnant, they are just going to do it every night until we know. I didn’t mind being in the back, though it did feel weird. I got to talk with Nightmare and the other Fluttershy that I’m for now just going to nickname Crim. We got to talking and frankly they aren't bad company. Nightmare and I even had a laugh about our fight earlier. That is when I found out I’m not as tough as I thought. She was still weak from her imprisonment and wasn’t even a half strength, but she did commend me for my natural skill. Crim and I talked about ways to improve Flutter’s combat. Apparently recently she has gone from pure support to a healing sword as it were, physical prowess and support at the same time. It wasn’t bad being on the inside.

We woke up the next morning to a knock at the front door. I got up and let the other two wake up. I stretched as I walked down stairs and opened the door to be greeted by a mare with quite a few foals behind her. “Excuse me sir, are you Eclipse?” she said, I think my lack of eye put her off about the fact that I’m opening an orphanage.

“Yeah thats me.” I said, fixing my mane and standing up straighter. I just realised how much taller I am to normal ponies, seriously, I’m like a head taller than the mare that was in front of me.

“I’m Golden Days from the home in Manehattan, and we also stopped off at the town hall to pick up the foals there before we came. Could I come in and work out the details while the kids roam around their new home?” She asked. I looked behind her to notice a large chariot with some kids inside. The others were outside it and behind Golden. I noticed Scootaloo amongst the kids and I had to keep from my heart breaking.

“Sure, come on in. The other two are still trying to wake up and should be down shortly.” I said, leaving the door open and walking in. “Want anything to drink? I don't think with heartless about the journey was easy.” I offered.

“Some coffee would be nice. Come on kids.” She said as she entered. I walked to the kitchen and started to brew some coffee as the kids made their way in. Many of them ooed and ahhed at the building as it’s large, yet homely rustic feeling I hoped would comfort them.

“Ponies under fiveteen can have rooms downstairs unless they can’t climb them, or want st stick together with somepony else. I’ll be right back to show you kids around.” I said with a smile as the group stopped in the main room. “If anypony is hungry, I am just about to make breakfast!” I said as with a rush they followed me to the kitchen. I started to make a feast for the little fillies and colts, blurring around the kitchen and using my magic to help multi task. At one point I summoned Wolf to help out. That startled the kids until I high hoofed him and we both got back to cooking. When we were done, Wolf faded back into me as I whispered. “Stop.” and set all the plates for everypony present, and made two extra for Luna and Shy. The spell ended right as I finished and I smiled. “Dig in everypony!” I said as I made sure there was plenty of variety. Just in case some had allergies of course. It felt good to see their wide eyes as they started to dig in, each in their own way. Some started to pig out, others showed more manners, but only one was hesitant. She seemed to be hesitant about taking anything. I walked over to her and kent down. She couldn’t had been older than five or six. “Hey there, what’s your name?”

“P-Pura Soul mister?” She stuttered out, afraid.

“I’m Eclipse, nice to meet you Pura!” I said with a big smile “Why don’t you want to eat?” I ask concerned.

“W-well...I-I just don’t know what I want...but everypony else seems to know.” She said sadly.

“Hey it’s okay. I did make a lot of food, but that is because I didn’t know what you liked. Tell you what, later on today, I’ll take to each of you and find out what you like, and for now let's start with a single pancake, okay?” I said, lifting one with my clear magic aura and setting it down on her plate.

“Th-thank you mister Eclipse.” Pura said.

“Just call me Eclipse k? We are friends after all.” I said with a smile as I got up.

I looked over to Golden who looked at me with a smile. “Looks like my job here is done. I was going to ask you a series of question to make sure you could handle foals, but it looks like you got that covered.” She said as she finished her cup of coffee. “Thank you for the coffee Sir.”

“As I told Pura over there, just Eclipse is fine.” I said as I took the cup. Luna and Fluttershy came down not long after I started to do the dishes and we had to calm the kids down again to get them to finish breakfast. We also had to peal Golden off the floor as she had tried to bow before I introduced Luna as one of my two fiances and co-owner of the house. The kids also loved Shy, a few fillies mentioning how soft she was. That gave each of us a good laugh while breakfast was finishing.

After it was over and the kids said their goodbyes to Golden Days. I gathered them all into the main living room. “Okay everypony! Although you all probably know us one way or another, I think it is polite to introduce one’s self right?” I said with a warm smile “I’m Eclipse, one of your three caretakers. I like to believe I’m the fun loving type, but before I lay some ground rules, I’ll let everyone else introduce themselves.”

“I’m Fluttershy. If anypony has any sniffles or cuts...don’t got to Eclipse. He can’t use a healing spell to save his skin.” She said with a grin and wing hugging me despite my pouting. That got a few of them to giggle. “But I love him anyways. Back to the point though, I am here to take care of any of you in anyways I can.”

Luna stepped up on my other side and joined her wing with Shy’s over me. “And I don’t think I need a introduction, but I’m Luna, and I’ll be awake most nights if anypony has any nightmares, or you just need somepony to talk to.”

Recovering from my pouting I stand up and hug my two mares. “Anyways, I can’t wait to learn the names of the new faces, but first things first, ground rules. Anypony under the age of thirteen must be home before seven, everypony else need to just be home for dinner, other than that the curfew is nine. The box above the fireplace, as well as the object inside will soon be in a case, which is to never be touched. If you want to see it, you just need to ask, but I beg you to not touch it. Colts and fillies are to have separate rooms unless you are siblings. Other than that I am pretty flexible with the rules. Go to school, be polite, stuff like that.” My tone hardens and becomes serious. “But of all rules, there are two that are the most important, one, if any Heartless or strange creatures are about, you are to either call the guard, one of the other Elements of harmony, or one of us. We have a means to fight the monsters and keep them from hurting any of you.” I said summoning Oblivion and Oathkeeper, while the mares summoned their keyblades.

The children oogled at the keyblades as we unsummoned them. “Uh, Eclipse. Could you teach us how to use those? They look soo cool!” one of the kids asked.

I chuckled “Maybe, but these are not toys. Oblivion and Oathkeeper here are alive, and they can hurt ponies just as much as they can save them.” I said before thinking it over.

We can’t give them Keyblades, you are barely trained yourself!

Oh come on Oath, He is technically a Master right now, it is within his right to have apprentices.

True….Sigh I hate it when you have a point Oblivion.

“I guess I can give you all one, on the understanding that these are not toys, I will train you all the basics on how to use them during vacations and weekends.” I said as they started to line up, Scootaloo in the front.

“Are you sure this is a good idea Eclipse? On top of being the owner, manager and cool of this place, you also have to do your own training, not including any other fights you get into.” Fluttershy asked as Scootaloo ran outside with Divewing to show Rainbow Dash.

“I can handle it Shy. And if I can't, I know you girls will be there to pull me out of my mess.” I said nuzzling her. After they all had keyblades (and we had tracked down Scoots) I showed them around. “We had built this place big just in case we get more foals, but also so us three could train when we need to let off some steam. We have a small Dojo where I will help teach you the basics, you all already know where the kitchen and dining room is. There is a bathroom on each floor and then a master bathroom in our room that you are not to use unless it is an absolute emergency. You can have a Room upstairs if you want, however we ask that any unicorns that go up there, if you feel a magic aura around my room, don't try and remove the spell. It is probably Luna going into the dreamscape okay?”

“Where are our possible mommies and daddies going to meet us?” Asked one of the kids.

“Why, but the final room I have to show you kids, the gaming room~” I said as I open the doors, revealing every gamer’s wet dream. Thanks to Luna’s addiction, we have every modern console, multiple controllers, and enough PC’s for a MLG gaming team. “If you have a game that you want to play, and we don't have it, just ask Luna, she’ll probably play it with you knowing her and her insatiable hunger to play games~”

“HEY!” Luna cried out as all of us got a good laugh.

“Man, I’m beat.” I said as I layed down on the bed. After the kids go settled in, I challenged every single Keyblade wielder in this Equestria to a duel at the same time...Well, except the new kids. They sat in the sidelines and watched. The fight was epic! I used Wolf to teleport and I almost won!...then Justin and all the others finally figured out how to team up instead of letting me pick them off one by one. By the time I was on my last legs only Justin could walk still, the others were unconscious. The cheater used a Elixer and then proceeded to wipe my face into the ground. I sighed as I heard the door open for the mares to come in all giddy.

“What's the news you two? You are a lot more excited than normal.” I said with my trademark smile.

They giggled. Luna shouted excitedly as they both jumped onto the bed “We’re both positive!”

“We also have the wedding date planned! Oh I can’t wait!” Giggled Fluttershy as they both group hugged me.

“That...That’s amazing girls. This is really happening huh.” I said as I embraced them.

“It had better be.” Fluttershy said while Luna just cuddled up into me.

“Don’t think you can get away with your little stunt today lorem. You owe us for that.” Luna said huskily as she casted a soundproof and locking spell on the room. It’s a good thing I didn’t tell the kids the keyblades can unlock any and everything.

Well it has been a interesting week. First I visit Canterlot with Shining and Twilight to find out that my mom is pregnant again….with quadruplets. Man what kind of spells have she and dad been flinging? Never mind I don’t want to know. Anyways, the kids also started school that week, giving me plenty of time to hunt down heartless. I haven't run into many fusions, not to say I haven't run into a few. I have tried to talk a few of them out of it, sadly, it only worked on one. The rest either ran or...Well, as much as it feels good, I know it’s wrong.

Anyways, we planned the wedding to be a month from now, so we made invites. Every one of our friends have one on this reflection...but it would be bad if I don't invite Zeke. Besides, I have to show him the letter dad sent me. It will change what he knows just as much as me.

Sigh, Zeke, Zeke, Zeke

View Online

As Zeke started raging the good king who had started all this began to reform his body “Ugg what happened?” he asked.

It was at that moment Unum side kicked his head into the side of his ship. “You idiot! What are you?!” SHe yelled, grabbing him by the scruff of his shirt. “Zeke never let’s his Keyblade draw blood, so what are you that it would have sliced you?”

“Immortal.” He said as she snapped his neck. “Ow why did you snap my neck?” he asked having his neck return to normal.

“No wonder. Anything that can heal at the rate of an ‘immortal’ would have tipped off his Keyblade, no reason to hold back… but now Zeke’s involuntarily drawn blood… he’s gone into his Killing mood because of your stupidity!”

“Stupidity, guys a Ventral and i’ve heard stories about this Killing mood didn’t think one was still a virgin.” he joked.

“Yet he had saved a whole world from complete genocide, managed to bring back a long lost city, and even brought back over 80% of the world's lost population! You tell me if you hold a matchstick to him?”

“Oh great Ventral jesus. Just what i need, anyway lady I freed a whole group of slaves took down a slaver nation and became the most powerful military nation on the planet all in 300 years do you think i care what you think of me?” he asked

“If you two are done talking now.” Zeke spoke, his voice sounding like echo’s of hundreds of people speaking at once. “I believe it’s time to see just what this body can do.”

“Great he’s going to slaughter my people...this is why i had him sent to the prison so this wouldn’t happen.”

“If you would TALK this wouldn’t have happened!” Unum smashed his head into the ground, summoning her two Keyblades. “Zeke…”

“What do you think I was trying to you dumb bitch.” he said as she stomped on his head

“Unless you want me to toss you into the sun and watch you burn and try to come back from that, shut up and try to keep… something isn’t right,”

“Yeah why aren't my men firing on him This is the whole reason i came up with the monster law.” Kain said.

“Heh, arrogant yet you call yourself a king?” Zeke spoke to Kain. “I believe the woman who is married to my host is asking why I’m not slaughtering everything yet.”

“Oh well can you get off me now?” He asked. Unum stepped off Kain, kicking him once before he got up. ”Thanks now...” he motioned to the guards “get everything on this guy I want the whole fleet trying to take him down.” he whispered as the guard ran off.

“I think you’ll find something far worse I have in store for you, but sadly, that must wait. As much as I’d like to devour you immortal, I’ll let your nightmares handle this.” Zeke snapped his fingered, red portals opening up as humanoid creatures covered in blood began falling out… including one armored Minotaur. “My, my, what a death count, your people killed by the ones you have killed. How rich.”

“God damn it not her.” Kain said as a griffon stabbed him. “Anybody but my beloved.” he said with tears in his eyes “I sent her to heaven why did you bring her back?” he asked as Unum got the griffon off him.

Zeke began laughing, the echo of it sending chills down Kain and Unum. “Much like you immortal, they have sins on their backs. If anything liberating them from hell and purgatory I saved her more than you did.”

A voice just shouted FINAL WAVE as Zeke was hit by an explosion. “NOBODY MESSES WITH THE WOMAN I LOVE AND LIVES!” he shouted “YOU Unum was it take care of the armored minotaur i’ll handle the rest.” he said as his eye glowed red.

When the smoke cleared, Zeke was still standing, chuckling. “Is that all you can muster immortal? How pathetic. Perhaps you aren’t worth playing with afterall.” Zeke snapped his fingers as Kain was engulfed in black fire, turning to ash in seconds. “Wonder if he’ll still come back?”

Unum made quick work of the minotaur, now crossing her keyblades at Zeke’s neck. “Please Zeke, snap out of it.” SHe cried.

Zeke chuckled. “For too long my blood was activated in a world without magic, now that it has I can finally claim this body as mine. The one you knew as Zeke is lost in my hive mind girl, only Psychopath is here.” Psychopath, in one shove, sent Unum flying through the city buildings. “Ih, and be glad I removed the X-blade’s chains from you with that, consider it my one act of mercy.”

“EAT THIS YOU SON OF A-” a naked Kain said jumping and hitting Zeke in the back of the head.

“Oh, the immortal lives?” Psychopath said, grabbing Kain by the wrist.

“You honestly think i wouldn’t plan for being totally destroyed?” Kain said as he kicked Zeke in the face.

Psychopath responded by biting off Kain’s foot, and swallowing it. “Immortal blood… not like the other blood of gods, but just enough.” Psychopath then bit off his own finger… only for it to regrow in seconds. “Amazing what blood can teach you. Also.” Psychopath flinched Kain in the head. “Final Wave.” With that, Kain was blasted away with a pin point Final Wave.

“Hey Unum can you hold him still I may have a plan.” Kain said as she covered her eyes.

“Don’t bother.” Unum and Kain turned around, seeing Core and his reflections, save for Yellow, behind them. “Finally, get the device ready Ebony.”

“Time for my solo” Ebody said pulling out a trumpet.”

Unum grabbed Kain by the arm. “Don’t trust these people Kain, as much as you think Zeke’s family is bad… they are worse.”

“So what's their story?”

“To put it short, they kill who gets in their way, trick whoever they want to, kill off whole dimensions out of boredom… and want everything to die, just like the thing possessing Zeke does. All because purple there lost his wife, he’s the original, the others are just adopted copies.”

“Great Super ventrals... wait what?” He asked turned to Core. “Is that true you're doing all this because you lost your wife?” he asked.

Core responded by grabbing a nearby sword and throwing it into Kain’s head. “Stay out of this runt, and Unum, relax, we’re not here to kill you this day.” With that, the Cores ran after Zeke/Psychopath.

“That is the stupidest reason to turn evil I have ever heard seriously I had to kill the woman i loved and you don’t see me trying to remove everything from reality.” Kain said

“He’s been in darkness to long, whatever he had planned originally before becoming this has long since been twisted.” Unum said.

“Alright Men keep those guys off the raging Ventral I have a plan, Unum, get Zeke ,that was his name right?”

“Yeah.”

“I may have a way to end this and steal victory from those guys.””

“Alright, but.” Unum held a Keyblade to Kain’s neck. “If Zeke dies from this, I will personally make sure you never come back from your next death.”

“Don’t worry he’ll be fine.” Kain said mumbling something under his breath. “Just make sure that he stands still long enough for me to do my thing.” Kain said

“Fine.” Unum said, taking a grand leap over to Zeke, who crossed her keyblades with a now monotone X-blade.

“Heh, guess he didn’t like me.”

“Let's hope this works.” Kain said taking a deep breath “CHAINS OF TARTARUS!” he shouted as chains began to appear under Zeke tieing him up and dragging him down.

“Oh, how neat.”

“Ebony, do it now!” Core yelled as Ebony jumped on top on Psychopath, blowing the horn as blood began trailing out of Zeke and into the horn.

“Lets get that power out” Ebony said playing his horn.

“Well if this isn’t interesting!” Psychopath yelled as his eyes returned to Zeke’s normal ones.

“Follow him Ebony and Blue we can still make use of him.” Core ordered as they and Zeke fell into the ground.

“Good it worked.” Kain said

Unum grabbed Kain, slamming him into the ground. “WHERE IS MY HUSBAND YOU BASTARD!”

“Tartarus, It was the only place I could send him he wouldn’t be able to harm anyone.” Kain said.

“You are going to help me find him!”

“If that last word was any indication he should be able to get out himself. Tartarus doesn't hold pure hearted people for long.”

She stomped on him, making a crater around them. “Two of Core’s lackeys are with him, if we don’t find him soon they’ll take him!”

“Yeah but they're evil they can’t escape Tartarus unless they fight their way out.” He said falling unconscious.

“They’ve killed off whole dimensions single handedly! You think whatever is in there can hold them?!”

“Mam he’s asleep.” the guard captain said “Chains take too much out of him”

Unum picked up Kain, throwing him far off into the ocean. “Useless bastard!”

“Please don’t insult our king mam.” she gave him a look. “He does his best for our people before him was a tyrant that used dark magic to turn slaves into...well you don’t want to know point is he was a monster and Kain freed us we owe him everything.”

“I’m older than most of the stars in the sky, the blood on my hands runs deeper than the core of the largest world… Zeke had every right to kill me when that darkness was ripped from me… he showed me mercy, gave me a home and a family… how do I explain to the kids he’s gone… how long will he be gone? Will the infants grow up never knowing him?” Unum broke down crying.

“I’m sorry mam, I truly am.” he said before turning to a few fishermen. “First person to bring me the king gets a 500 bit prize.” he said as the fishermen left the docks and went out to fish them.

In Tartarus

“These beasts are too easy.” Blue said, hacking a lich in half with ice. “Pain DTD’s don’t work in this part of it.”

“Yeah.” Ebony said, carrying Zeke’s unconscious body. “This was a grand victory for us this day.”

As they were speaking a demon arose behind them “Hello meals.” the demon said.

“Blue take care of this bitch.” Ebony said

“Fine I summon Lord of D in attack mode and activate flute of summoning Dragons special summoning two Blue eyes white dragons.” Blue said as two dragons appeared behind him “Blue eyes destroy this demon burst stream attack” he ordered as white light emerged from the dragons mouths. There now let's find the exit and have master core reward us.” he said

“Lets” he said summoning a few rangers to defend them.

Back in the Minos kingdom Kain was brought back to shore “what I miss?” he asked as Unum grabbed him again “Starting to think you don’’t like me.” he said.

“Because of you my husband is missing and our kids, if we don’t find him soon, my never know about him other than from stories.”

“He should have been back by now.” kain said as she dropped him. “Listen I know this is the last thing you want to hear after all i’ve done but let me help you it’s my fault any of this started and I’ll be damned if I let what I’m going to assume is a good man’s kids lose their father.” Kain said as he turned to a guard. “Get me my traveling clothing and let the council know I’ll be gone for a bit longer.” Kain said.

“Yes sir.” the head guard said.

After Kain got his gear Unum opened a DTL and tossed him in, when Kain saw Daybreak… he was speechless. “This is what Zeke made possible.” Unum said, picking him up.

“I’m sure if he hadn’t attacked me we might have gotten along.” Kain said.

“I’m sure if your first instinct wasn’t to arrest us you would have.”

“Well red eyes normally mean trouble My father barely got out of New time square when a Ventral killing mood hit.” Kain said. “Were not going to be able to do this alone you know.” he said

“Feeling weak?” Unum teased as she headed towards the castle.

“Well it's not that it's just my strongest attack did nothing and I wasn’t able to get angry enough to active the... I completely forgot about the dragon's blood.” Kain said confusing Unum

“I’m not even gonna ask, but you are explaining to the rest of Zeke’s wives and kids why he’s gone, alright?”

“If they are as nice as you i’m just going to give you this.” he said handing her his severed hand. “Don’t lose it.”

“First off… the heck? Secondly, coward much?”

“I just cut off my hand and you think am a coward? Anyway it’s a life line”

“You seem afraid of fifteen women. Sixteen including myself.”

“Whom I’ve never... wait sixteen, wimp, try fifty at once” he said

“Don’t tempt Rune, she will follow though with that, and once you’ve read through her black book, you tend to have kinky nightmares.”

“I...not afraid it's just well he got lucky is all sixteen women who love him and i had to kill the only person I ever loved. Just doesn't seem fair” Kain said

“I believe they say ‘the price of immortality is eternal suffering’ for a reason.”

“I’ve never heard that. Anyway let's meet these wi...Celestia?” He asked

“Reflection dummy.” Unu said, smacking Kain upside the head.

“Is she as unkillable here as in my world?” Kain asked

“Unlikillble?” Celestia asked. “Uh, Unum, where’s Zeke and who’s this?”

“*Sigh* Long story short I messed up and Zeke is gone because of me and..” before he could continue Celestia slapped him “not the worst thing you've ever done to me...”

“The babies are sleeping.” Celestia mumbled.

“Fine gatter all the wives and I’ll tell you what happened.” Kain said. It didn’t take long for the other wives to gather. Kain was… surprised, he knew most of them, though the goat lady threw him off. “Alright i’m giving you the short version so you can get your hate out right away Basically I was hasty in my judgment Zeke killed me , turned evil I sent him to tartarus and he hasn't come back yet so were mounting a rescue operation to save him.”Kain said as he took a deep breath and closed his eyes ready for the worst.

To his surprise, nothing happened. As he opened his eyes he saw the wives just looking mournful. Celestia eventually stood up, left, but came back quickly with a little unicorn foal. “Promise them, not us, that you’ll bring Zeke back.” Celestia said, holding her son Sunlight in front of Kain’s face. “After all, they’ll suffer the most if you fail.”

“Alright I promise now get that baby out of my face your just taungting me with what I can’t have.” he said.

Celestia held Sunlight in her arms as she went and took her seat. “So, who will be aiding you in this?”

“Maybe some of Zeke’s allies?” Unum suggested.

“That could work...how do we get to them?” Kain asked as Unum snapped her fingers.

On que Eclipse comes through a DTL “Hey Unum, where’s Zeke, I need to show him something.” He says casually.

“Is that horse talking?” Kain asked.

“God damn it...Still have to work out the kinks on the automatic part of that spell apparently. Stupid authors not wanting me to have that spell…” He says before lighting his horn and turning into a brown haired, shorter and leaner version of Josh. “Here we go.”

“Ah okay not questioning it basicly Zekes gone and we need to save him.” Kain said

“Sigh. Fine but my Luna and Fluttershy are going to kill me when I get back.” Eclipse said returning to pony form. “So, how did he get captured?”

“He killed me went on a blood rage so I sent him to tartarus to calm down before he destroyed my island and its people.” Kain said.

Eclipse narrowed his red eye at Kain. “What the fuck did you do?”

“Nothing I just wanted to talk to him in a private place saw he was a ventral and he killed me.”

“Sorry, but I know my cousin. He wouldn’t kill unless provoked, and even then he would at most break a bone.”

“He tried to arrest us and since this guy is ‘immortal’ the X-blade felt off about him and likely took over a bit to hit him. When blood and not darkness came out that’s when Zeke entered his Killing mood and… turned into a Psychopath. Core and his others did something that took it away, but they followed him into Tartarus.” Unum explained.

“He should have escaped by the time I came too.” Kain added.

Eclipse paces back and forward. “Not good not good...calm down Eclipse, they want him alive. You are not losing more family.” Eclipse took a breath before looking back at Kain. “How long ago was this.”

“Twenty minutes.” He said casually “He also took some of my blood so he should be harder to kill.”

“And why are you not in complete agony right now Unum?”

“The Psychopath that took him over said something about breaking the X-blades chains that linked us. I’m not sure why it would do that though?”

“Possibly because it makes you a threat...Easier to track him by following the trail of pain.” Eclipse said, going full blown strategist mode. “Who else will be joining us?”

“Other then me, you and Unum no clue not from around here spent three hundred years on my own world.” Kain said “Oh Kain black-heart by the way” he said extending his hand before retracting it.

“And I though I spent the longest time on my world.” Eclipse says “Name’s Eclipse Sparkle, or Eclipse Ventral, whichever you prefer, now back to the mission. That gives us four so far if we include Wolf…”

“God damn it are all of you going to be ventrals?” He asked

“Do you want me to drop you in the center of the planet?” Unum threatened. “You’ll take a while to dig yourself out.”

“No mam I just don’t like Ventrals, one nearly killed my father” Kain said

“Don’t blame the few for the acts of the greater.”

“Anyways!” Eclipse says, snapping them out of it. “Yes I am a Ventral, no I was not raised by them. Now, before you all freak out I need to show you our fourth companion Wolf.” He said before another balverine looking person comes out of Eclipse.

“God damn it, what the hell Eclipse?!” The figure yells at the pony.

“Sorry Wolf, but they need to see you so they don’t try and kill my darkness.” Eclipse says with a shrug.

“Anyway who else are we adding to the team?” Kain asked.

“We can try to get the Foretellers, Ben, John, and Huxley, though I’m still iffy on Huxley.” Unum said.

“Two flaws. The more time we spend not getting Zeke, the worse this could get. The second flaw is they may have their own problems right now. Also, I could try and summon Cript, but unless Zeke is currently full Psychopath, He can’t directly help.”

“Well i say we bring this Huxley on board.” Kain said not telling why. ”Wait who’s Cript and why didn’t he help me when he did become full psycho?” Kain asked.

“Cript is… a god in a sense, but he can’t aid in certain events that are meant to happen.” Unum said. “Kinda like… he can only help from sidelines.”

“Unless it is a Psychopath. And he probably didn’t help you because he THOUGHT you had it handled. I can quickly go to my reflection , grab a letter and have him here. If he can help.” Eclipse said.

“Well that could work Unum.” Kain said as she gave him a bad look “You do whatever you want I’m not messing with you again.”

“You did kinda drive her husband to go mad. And unlocked the one thing that made him different from even me.”

“Not my fault I just wanted to talk in a place I know was safe for my people.” Kain said

“Are you three done?” The three looked at the doorway, seeing Cript. “So, that happened.”

“You’re not another...”Kain stopped when Unum made a fist with her hand “Nevermind.” Kain said

“For your information… I’m Cript. First off, Kain, right? You’re a bitch, Unum, Eclipse… sorry… I can’t help here.”

“Hey she’s threatening to kill me permanently and can probably do it to so of course I’m scared of her.” Kain said.

“Not why you’re a bitch.” Cript says. “You just whine too much.”

“Hey I don’t whine”

“Then what’s that you just said called? Jokes aside… as I said, I can’t help.”

“Can you at least point us in the right direction?” Kain asked.

“Why can’t you, it's a Psychopath!” Eclipse said with anger ever present.

“As you know Eclipse, Zeke is a reflection of me, a rather new one to appear too. In some ways all reflection’s of people will share things… for mine, it’s becoming a Psychopath, or Insanity. This is unpreventable, but the outcome we can alter, though, Zeke has to be the one to not give back in. Core may have taken the Psychopath blood from Zeke, but that link to them is now forever stuck with him.”

“So pretty much what KH told me in my Mark of Mastery. We forge our own destiny, correct? And that is why you can’t help.”

“If Zeke falls back into it… then it’s my problem, but this time, I’m here, my other reflection’s it happened to them all at the same time. Still not sure exactly how I broke out from when those freaks took me over, but I might be able to teach it to Zeke by sharing memories. The key to it might be there.”

“So can you or can you not tell us what direction to go in...it’s not asking for much just a push in the right direction.” Kain asked.

“I can, but it will be dropping you right on top of them.”

“Bring it!” Wolf and Eclipse said at the same time, Oathkeeper and Oblivion floating beside them.

Cript snapped his fingers. In a blink the three were standing mere feet from Ebony and Blue Core.

“Oh hey, It’s’ the captain.” Blue said.

“They're here for Zeke. Rangers get them.” Ebony said as the Green Zyuranger, Dekamaster, Abarekiller all attacked the group.

“God damn it. Oblivion! Oath! Do your thing!” Eclipse shouted as they went to fight alone while Eclipse and Wolf pulled blades out of their hearts. They were made of Light, but pulsed with darkness. “Ready Wolf?”

“You’re the one who’s never ready Eclipse.” Wolf said as the two charged forwards.

Before they could fight a voice was heard shouting “FINAL WAVE!” destroying the rangers. “Gah how did you get the Gokaigers finishing move?” Ebony aksed “Blue summon some monsters.” he ordered as Two blue eyes white dragons appeared behind them.

“I activate pot of greed its effect allows me to draw to more cards.” he said drawing two cards “I active polymerisation fusing my blue eyes white dragon in my hand with the ones on the field summoning Blue eyes ultimate dragon.” he said as the dragons fused into one three headed dragon.

“My turn. Scan!” Eclipse said, looking at their Hp before the Blade started to pulse faster and faster. “Corrupted Light!” Eclipse shouted as he warp stepped to slice at the Dragon in time with Wolf and the two keyblades.

“Ha you activated my trap card, Mirror force it normally destroys all your monsters but in this case it sends the force you dealt with back at you.” Blue said as Eclipse and Wolf started to cry out in pain as the Ultimate dragon started to charge up an attack “Burst stream attack” Blue ordered as the two were helpless to move as Kain ran in pushing them away as he was blasted apart unable to recover. Not even a corpse remained.

“Kain!” Eclipse shouted as he stood back up, growling as he shook his head. “That’s it...I am done holding back any more!”

While Unum was getting ready to charge, something in her pocket felt off. She felt inside, pulling out Kain’s hand and dropped it as it started groping. “Oh… that’s what he meant…” She said as Kain grew himself from just his hand, though, he was naked.

“Great is my eye still blue” he asked as she realised his eyes were mismatched colors. “Anyway I there's my gun.” he said picking it up from the blast “Hey Eclipse could you cut off my hand please?” he asked as Eclipse tilted his head. Oblivion flew from fighting the dragon and cut a hand off of Kain. “Thanks buddy.” Kain said as Unum just looked at him.

“Not your buddy!” Eclipse growled as Wolf got up as well.

“Well screw you too.” Kain shouted “Saved your life and you won't even call me a buddy.” Kain said.

“Well sorry for being pissed off that my own attack was reflected back at me, when that is literally the only thing I have going for me!”

“Are they arguing...wait where’s Zeke?” Ebony asked as he saw Unum running off with her husband. “What how?”

“The old distraction trick. While you were focused on the sexiest man alive, Unum stole the guy from you.”

“But we were focused on you not david hasselhoff.” Blue said.

“Anyways...I’ve had enough of your stupid games! I don’t even like Yugioh! Magic the Gathering was the best card game and you can’t say otherwise!” Eclipse shouted

“You take that back! Be glad I didn’t bring my god cards or exodia.”Blue said.

“Eclipse is right, Yugioh does kinda suck compared to Magic.” Wolf said as he nodded sagely.

“Did...did we just agree on something other than a fight?” Eclipse asked shocked.

“Shut the hell up Eclipse.” Wolf responded.

While the battle was taking a rather random turn, Unum found an isolated area to put Zeke down. “Come on Zeke, wake up…” She said, shaking him.

Eclipse shouted “Stopga!” And froze the dragon as he charged for another attack alongside Wolf and the keyblades again.

“Awa the wrong pony froze my dragon. Ebony do something I have to wait a turn.” Blue said

“Fine here comes a kick ass solo.” he said summoning the five original gokaigers. ”Here go kill them.” They all nodded and ran towards the naked Kain who just shot them with his gun.

“I could use some help over here.” he said.

“Oh please, you can handle them!” Eclipse shouted as he, Wolf and the two keyblades all came down on the dragon.

“I don’t have my sw-” he was cut off by a five person final wave hitting him “Gah” he said as he got knocked out.

Unum kept shaking Zeke, finally he made a sound. “Ugh.” Zeke groaned, finally coming too. “Wha… where am I?”

“Oh thank god.” Unum said, hugging Zeke. “Almost thought we lost you.”

“Unum? Why… is everything so dark?”

Eclipse yelled as he and his companions cut off one of the dragon heads and shouted “Mega flare!” sending the blast to the other heads.

“Ha I activate monster reborn bringing the dragon back.” Blue said as the dragon returned to the battlefield.

“That is it!” EClipse yelled as he started to run at Blue, the whites of his eye slowly turning black.

“Negate attack” he said as Eclipes froze there unable to attack “Blue eyes white lightning attack.” Blue ordered as Ebony found the door.

“Blue over here.” He called out as Blue ran away towards the door.

“Reflectga!” Eclipse yelled as the blast is sent back at the dragon.

“Wh, what are you talking about Zeke, it’s dim, sure, but not pitch black?” Unum said, worried.

“I can’t see anything.”

Unum took a look at Zeke… his once red eyes now covered in a fog white liquid. “Y… your eyes… That legend!”

“What… oh… OH! So… I’m blind now… how?”

“They took the Psychopath Blood out of you.”

“Then… that blood is what was letting me see?”

Eclipse yelled as he tried to follow Blue to have to fight the other gokaigers. “Damn it! Curaga!” He shouted as he tried to heal Kain.

“What I miss?” he asked as Unum grabbed him “Alright what I do now?” he said knowing that she was going to kill him again.

“We get out of here, come on, Zeke’s over here.” She said, leading Kain to Zeke. “Congrats, you got him, but… without that blood, Zeke’s blind.”

“Unum.” Zeke started. “I didn’t give much fucks about losing my legs, my sight I actually will miss, but it’s a small price to pay.”

“Look I’m sorry I caused all this...I just wanted to talk to you and when I saw you were a Ventral I had to do what was good for my people...” Kain said

“FIrst off, bad word to start that sentence with, secondly, I’d have waited for the ‘assumed threat’ to speak, after all, it was your guards that took us to the docks to see you given they could tell we’re the same race.”

“Thats weird I never gave any orders for my guards to take me any humans. I thought I was the only human in that world...”

“Which is why they took us I guess. Two humans appear randomly, they probably thought you’d want to meet us.”

“That’s how I appeared so they may have thought you were with me...anyway I don’t know how I can make this up to you.” Kain said. “I have a debt to pay and I always pay my debts.”

“Well, for starters, are you in front of me?”

Kain took a few steps. ” I am now.”

Zeke pressed the button on one of his legs, the holsters tearing his jeans up but he quickly took out the pistol and shot Kain in the lover gut. “That was for the shit that went down. Man, now that the Killing Mood isn’t an issue, that felt kinda good…. In a morbid way.”

“I know right?” Eclipse said walking over, grumbling about not catching them.

“Okay you almost shot me in the dong...but anyway can one of you give me a ride home I’m in foreign land here with no money or pants.”

“After we take Zeke home first.” Unum said, helping Zeke up. “I think Twilight can find a way to help Zeke see things again, though, it might take a while.”

“I can wait.” Zeke said. “If this doesn’t give you girls an excuse to keep me in the bedroom, then you really trust me.” Zeke joked.

“Hey Zeke, well, you have a step up from dad and I, we are only half blind.” Eclipse said with a smirk.

“Har har.”

“Anyways, let's get out.” Eclipse said, trying to open a DTL to Zeke’s reflection. “Oh and I have to show...well, tell you something when we get back.”

“Is it a way to get more wives?” Kain asked “the man has sixteen i think that's enough and that's coming from a guy with over fifty lovers.”

“Why?” Zeke asks as they walk through, appearing in the castle. “I mean, sixteen I’m really good with, why need fifty?”

“Fifty?” Zeke froze as Rune’s voice caught his ears.

“Basically to fill the void of being incompatible with any of the races on the planet...trust me i’ve tried them all.” Kain said looking down at the floor.

“Oh dear...Zeke, need help running?” Eclipse said, also frozen from that voice.

“Unlike Kain, I’ll take it like a man.” Zeke said. “Rune, first off, I’m blind, so there’s that, second, please don’t… she’s gone already?”

“Yup.” Unum said. “Well… you really are Cript’s reflection if you’re getting more wives than.”

“Well I’ll just take that leave back home and hope none of you ever come back there again.” Kain said.

“Wait.” Zeke said. “Kain, you may have started this, but you do have some rather useful skills in navigation, and combat. The council could use someone like you.”

“How did you know about that?” Kain asked.

“From what I managed to hear and see from being under that things control, you did a lot and lived a long time. Managed to see that final wave thing… that was cool.”

“Well I would be honored...if that means your wife can’t kill me anymore.” he said as he looked at Unum as she gave him a mean look.

“If she has to, she’s save if for special occasions. But now that you’re in the council, well, paperwork and a speech first then you can join, here.” Zeke said, summoning a Keyblade and holding it out. “Just take it cause no idea where you are.”

“Does it have to be a speech I wrote or can I just steal one that i remember.” Kain said as he grabbed Follow the wind.

“You write it.”

“great...I honestly don’t write my own speeches so this will be hard for me.” Kain said as he looked at the keyblade

“Yarg” the sword said as Kain dropped it.

“Gah that thing bloody talked to me.”Kain said

“The fact you can hear it surprisingly means you two are either really alike, or your heart’s as open as a hole in the wall.”

The keyblade again said “Yarg.”

“All its saying is Yarg...Is that normal?” he asked

“One rule of the Multiverse Kain, nothing is ‘normal’.” Eclipse says as he rummaged his pockets and pulls out a piece of paper. “Anyways, congrats on getting a keyblade, now you don't have to worry about losing a sword ever again.”

“That's a positive. I always hate being atomized and losing my sword.” Kain said as a DTL opened up taking Kain home.

“Now Zeke, what I originally came to talk to you about. I got a letter from dad about a week ago.” Eclipse said.

“Josh?” Zeke questioned.

“Yeah...I was surprised as well.”

“What is it? Death threats?”

“Actually...no. It...it is actually him trying to be a father instead of a ass.” Eclipse said.

Zeke chuckled. “Guy get’s his heart ripped out and NOW he starts having emotions.”

“Just...just let me read it out for you okay? He gave me this along with the ring he was going to use to propose to my mom.”

Eclipse read out the letter, Zeke barely believing his ears. “... Josh wrote that? Wait…” Zeke facepalmed. “God I’m stupid…”

“Don’t beat yourself up too much. You couldn’t have known.”

“No, I’m mad I didn’t see it. I mean, every halloween Josh pulled the best near death scares ever. Once, he dragged me along to chase teenagers in the country around as we both dressed like Jason Voorhees from Friday the 13th. And he scared me with a fake bomb in the car gag… he’s got a sick sense of humor… still pissed for the branding though.”

“Yeah...but getting this...I don’t know. It felt like something I was missing just fit. Anyways, we know now, and frankly I’m sure a good chunk of the family hates me, but I know what to do right now.”

“Damn… Well, still gonna punch Josh next time I see him… if I can see him by then. I think I’ll head off to bed.”

“Got it. I should head home as well before Luna and Shy decide to punish me again.” Eclipse said as he opened a DTL. “Oh and Zeke...If I snap, it will be different than you. You and the Psychopath have self control...I’ll just end up insane. If I snap, kill me before I hurt those I care about got it?”

“Bitch, if I lived through it so are you. Got it?”

“Haha, yeah, but not everyone is a total badass like you Zeke. Have a good night Cuz, see you soon.” Eclipse said as he walked through the DTL, much to a Dinky’s pouting.

Kain walked back into his bedchambers, ready to sleep what was left of the day away. Untill. “Sup bitch!” Cript said, appearing out of nowhere and scaring Kain.

“Great you what you here to kill me too?” Kain asked

“Nope, just here to say thanks for your help in getting Zeke out of that, as I explained, I can’t help directly, but I can help from siblings, so I have three gifts for you… well, two gifts and an offer.”

“What's the offer?” Kain asked

“As you know, I’m a god, and cause god logic I have a massive, ever growing harem of wives… I still can’t believe how big it is, but that aside, I’m offering you a spot in the family as an adopted kid… though I will make you teenage years to have it fit.”

“Well as long as I don’t have to go through puberty again I’ll take it...god king of the pirates...not as good a ring to it.”

“Demigod.” Cript said. “You have to earn god.”

“Same thing to be honest I was already considered a god by some you should check out the temple weekly orgies in my honor.”

“So full privileges or part?”

“I have no idea what you said but I will take full.” Kain said.

“Great, glad to have you son.” Cript said, patting Kain’s shoulder as his body changed. He got slightly shorter, thinner, and his body felt… different. “Wow… what are the odds.” Cript said.

“What?” Kain asked.

“Well, a curse on me makes anyone adopted into the family as a child genetically mine, and a randomly selected mother… yours seems to be… a griffon..”

“As long as her names not Gretta I’m fine.”

Cript took a look at his Assistant. “It’s Andra, but speaking of here’s your second gift, you now can have offspring with… literally any living race. Perk of being a demigod.”

“What's the final gift?” Kain asked unsure of what to feel about being able to have children

“Well, now this is just too convenient, I saw your fight and saw what went down with the ghost...blood… thing that looked like your love, so here.” Cript snapped his fingers. Gretta appearing dressed in white robes on Kain’s bed. “I pulled A FUCK ton of strings to get her here.”

Kain had no words he simply got on his knees and cried. “Thank you.” was all he could say

“Wha?” Gratta said, starting to wake. “Where am…”

Kain jumped on her hugging her “It's been three hundred years my love but you're alive...” Kain said

“...Kain… Oh my… what happened to you, you look… even sexier!”

“Please tell me she’s immortal too?” Kain asked

“Marry her and she will be.” Critp said. “It’s a passive to the family thing.”

Sparing no time kain got on his knees “Gretta will you be queen of the pirates?” kain asked

“You waited hundreds of years, and had to kill me several times to let me rest, of course dummy.” Gretta said, the two somehow kissing with their beaks.

“My king we heard voices coming from the room.” The guard said as they barged in. “Oh...we’ll just leave you two in peace.” the guard said backing up.

“I also kinda sorta… altered everyone’s memories of you, save for hers.” Cript said. “No need to explain, right?”

“I’m still king and Celestia is my drinking buddy right?”

“Duh… but as for drinking… you’ll need some REALLY strong stuff to get you.”

“Well after as few hundred years the hard stuff was all that took to get me tipsy so let's see the extreme stuff.” Kain said

“I’ll bring it to your wedding.” Cript said, walking out the door. “You two get busy, every reader knows what’s happening next.” With that, Cript left.

A Fight A Day Keeps The Heartless Away

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Man did I dodge yet another bullet when I got home. Once again, I made it barely on time with only, and I shit you not, thirty seconds left. With that time they gave me a disapproving look but I think they are just going to accept it. I trotted to the living room and tried to sort through the mail when I found one sent by Nebula gray. It was dated back when I first “met” him. “Oh that? It was buried under all the mail Cript sent. We didn’t open it because it was addressed directly to you Lordem.” Luna said as she peered over my shoulder. I shrugged and opened it so see what Gray needed to say to me.

Dear Sparkplug,
Forgot to mention that those Core beings you talked about might be able to track us through the doors to darkness and while someone didn't seem to even be worried about it you might have a better head on your shoulders and think things through more clearly. Paranoia is both good and bad. You decide what to do with the info. Also tell your wives to stop looking over your shoulder. Signed, Nebula Gray.
P.S. Watch out for any nightmares. For some reason I’ve been smelling a lot lately.

Odd...I looked over my shoulder to indeed see both Fluttershy and Luna, both acting like they haven't seen anything. I chuckle at their antics as I start to check on the kids. After giving a couple bedtime stories or simply turning off the night for others, Let's just say Luna and Shy had plans to give me more motivation to not dodge any more bullets. It was laying down, about to fall asleep when I remembered one fuck up I had made that day. Crap! I forgot to invite Zeke to the wedding while I was there! I took a deep breath and went back to sleep. Hopefully Justin can give Zeke the message….

After doing our new morning routine of making sure all the kids were up and had eaten, I remembered today was a saturday and went to the dojo to see which of the orphans would rather train than spend this day with friends. I was surprised to find out a decent few had showed up, including Scootaloo and Pura. Those last two I was shocked for different reasons. For Scoots it was because she was normally either hanging out with her friends, or she was watching Rainbow practice either with her keyblade, or for the Wonderbolts. And Pura...she is almost like a little earth pony fluttershy with how soft spoken she is...well, how Fluttershy used to be at least. She jumps when so much as somepony says ‘Boo’ behind her, and goes screaming under a table. Well, this is going to be interesting.

“Alright, everyone ready for their first day of lessons?” I ask. “And before anyone corrects me, we are not all ponies here.” I said with a nod to one of the griffon kids. “Now, Before we begin, Fluttershy and Luna will not be joining us today. Luna is still a princess and still has to do some princess duties every now and then, and Fluttershy has to take care of her animals back at her old house. They may join us later, but for now, it is just us.” I said “Now, can everyone summon their keyblades please?”

Multiple flashes of light filled the room as each of them summoned their keyblades. I nodded and summoned Oblivion and Oathkeeper as well. “Good, now, can anyone tell me what they know of fighting?” I ask as one of the little ones raised their hoofs. “Yes?”

“Don’t you just hit the bad guy in the head?” He asked innocently.

I looked blankly before having a good laugh at that. “Not exactly little one. Close though. I think we should start by the basics by explaining what anyone can do with a Keyblade.” the door opened up and in trotted fluttershy whom I nuzzled as soon as she came close “Your home early.”

“Angel was taking care of things while I was gone apparently.”

“Well perfect timing! I was about to show them that nothing is impossible.” I said with a smirk before one of the obvious tough, snobbish unicorns scoffed.

“But there are impossible things! It is impossible for a Pegasus and Earth pony to use magic after all” He said with a smirk to which my eye focused on him, shutting him up quick.

“Normally you are correct, but I do not lie. It is possible for a normal unicorn to become an Alicorn. It is possible to fight with nothing but friendship. It is possible to win a war, without drawing a single drop of blood. Nothing is impossible save for the impossible. Now, I will show you what I mean.” I glanced to his keyblade Starlight and looked him in the eye. “Go ahead and hit me as many times, and as hard as you want with that keyblade, and hit me until I tell you to stop.” I nod to Fluttershy who summons her own keyblade. As the colt steps into the ring with me. I unsummon both Oblivion and Oathkeeper and hold myself wide open.

The colt ran at me and struck me. Seeing that I didn’t flinch, he continued this several more times when he heard Fluttershy raise her Keyblade up and say “Cura!” and suddenly all the wounds on me disappeared. The colt stared in disbelief. “Did I say to stop?” I said as he took a step back. “Continue.” He ran at me and started to strike at me more when Fluttershy shouted out “Reflect!” and I was covered in the reflective shield. The colt fell over as the blow he was intending for my chest hit his instead and he slowly got back up and tried to get away. “Continue, or quit all lessons!” I said as the colt now looked fearful. He ran at me when Fluttershy said “Aero” and I was covered in a vortex of wind, throwing the colt back to where he began in line. “Now that is enough.” I said as I walked over and kneeled down. “Never...never think you know your enemy. And most of all, Learn to expect the impossible, because in this crazy life we live in, whether it be fate, or some teenager behind a keyboard, Life is unpredictable. Nothing is set in stone, and Never will be. Learn to accept that, and no one will ever catch you off guard. Curaga.” I said, healing the colt.

After that craziness was calmed down, we split them up into teams of two and had them fight one another without any magic or flying. Fluttershy and I agreed to do this so we can assess everybody's skill while still giving them some practice. I quickly say that Scoots was simply a natural. Her natural skill with Divewing was almost scary as I felt sorry for her partner, who whenever they were not being disarmed by Scoots, would get maybe one hit on her before she counter attacked. She almost reminded me of Sora in a way, of how she is just a natural with it even without any training yet.

And right away I could tell for others, they either didn’t want to be here, and felt like they needed to be, or that combat just wasn't their place in life. One such filly was Pura. She...it felt like she didn’t want to be here, but I knew she would feel like she had to. She lacked any talent and I could tell didn’t like fighting.

“Okay everyone, circle up!” I called out as the groups broke apart. “Now, we will go around to each of us, including me and Fluttershy, and explain why we are here. Why do you want to train so far. To protect? For adventure? Answer honestly please, this is important for each of your individual training.”

Many had similar answers. They want to get stronger, they want to show off, things like that. But a few had some impressive answers. Scoots said. “I want to protect my friends. The CMC...Sweetie Belle and Applebloom...they don't have a keyblade like me. I don't want a Heartless hurting my friends while I have a way to help them.” She looked so determined while she said that as the reasons kept getting better.

We landed on Pura and she took a nervous breath before saying her reason. “I...Everypony always wants to protect me, keep me safe but...I don't want them to get hurt trying to protect me. I-I thought that if I learned how to fight, then they wouldn’t have to.”

The reasons continued until they hit me. “Why I train and fight so hard? Well, there are multiple reasons. The first reason is because if I don't, a lot of people on many worlds will get hurt.” I said, not telling little kids the extent of what I fight. “I don’t want anybody to hurt that much, so I train for them. The second reason is myself. If I can’t protect myself, how can I hope to help others? Sure you can sacrifice yourself for those you love, but then you just make them wish you had just let them get hurt instead of you, leaving them to feel guilt for the rest of their lives. Finally, I fight for those I care about, and those I consider family. Now I was sure to say consider family. Family doesn’t have to mean that they adopted you, or that you are in their family by blood. I have a saying from a book I once read that I hold true to my heart. “Family isn’t who you're born with, it’s who you’d die for.” If you would gladly give your life for a close friend, then they aren't friends, they are family. And I will be damned if I let anything happen to my family.”

This was received by a couple nods by the kids and a nuzzle from Fluttershy. “And I fight for three things as well. First of which is my home. If we defeat the bad guy, but our home is destroyed, what was the point? Second is for my children, from you fillies and colts, to the ones currently yet to be born.” She says with a hoof over her belly as I smiled and hugged her. “The third reason is to make sure this stallion makes it back home in one piece.”

“Hey!”

This got all the kids to laugh as I tried to get them back to training, teaching them the basics on the slashes, to the difference between all of their keyblades. Nothing worked to fully calm them down before the lesson was over. Hey, Just because it is weekend training doesn’t mean i’m cruel! They still get time to have fun with their friends!

To summarize what happened the next few weeks I had told Justin about the wedding, and invited him, all the team and their significant others, Shining, Cadance and Celestia (The last two who, just like foretold wanted to plan and fund the wedding) and Justin said he would give Zeke or one of his wife’s the invitation next time he reported in. Apparently it was Rune he had told… Anyways. We also invited Fluttershy’s parents as well as my own, all of which demanded to meet us. My Sparkle parents were not even surprised at this rate that I was marrying royalty thanks to the track record of their kids, but were happy nonetheless to hear about the mares I was marrying.

Fluttershy’s parents were timid and very kind, but the mom is the one that Fluttershy got her hidden combat prowess from I can tell. She pulled me aside while the father was getting to know Luna and told me basically, in her own, scary way “Break my little Fluttershy’s heart, and there is nowhere in the entirety of the multiverse where you can hide where I will not find you and gut you slowly before feeding your entrails to dogs while you watch.” before going right back to happy, but timid in the living room. That lady scares me. The worst part is that no one believed me when I told them about the threat, saying that Flutter’s mom was way too timid and that Fluttershy was the brave one of the family, there is no way she made that kind of threat.

All that told me is that she would do it, and get away with it. No one would ever suspect her. Lets just say if I could, I would sleep with one eye open from now on.

Other than that, the only interesting thing that happened was a few monster attacks, and Fluttershy along with the others going on a small quest to a random town where no one had a cutie mark and stopped what after it was described to be, I can summarize as communism. That was a interesting story.

On other news, Fluttershy and Luna both have started to actually have noticeable changes to their body now. The pregnancy seems to be going either faster, or double with Fluttershy though as now she can't even use a basic cure spell without draining herself. Luna on the other hand can still fight and train, but we are extra careful to put up many, many wards when we do. It is now a week from the wedding… and it will be one of the best nights of my life if my gut feeling is correct. Too bad I can't shake this feeling of this calm before the storm deal. It’s been too long without a problem dealing with the multiverse...and I can't help but be paranoid on when it will strike.

Wedding From Crazy

View Online

Zeke sat across the living room. He wasn't exactly mad per say, but more shocked. His wives had brought in four new wives without telling him… And thought it a good idea for them to be naked with Zeke while he was meditating. “So… Pureblood...Moon Dancer…Maud… A.K. Yearling… I guess if my wives approve of you then… Welcome to the herd?” That got a shriek out of Moon Dancer.

“I just remembered something Zeke.” Toriel said.

“Yes love?”

“Isn't today your cousin Eclipse’s wedding?”

“... Crap you're right!”

Needless to say the family scuttered around, quickly getting dressed and as the babysitters and nannies were given the orders to take care of the infants and the other children, many of which were dressed in clothes they hated out of youthful intolerance, the wives, brides to be, and Zeke entered a DTL, managing to scrounge up gifts for the wedding.

Eclipse gulped as he waited and watched the hours tick by. Even with the epic pillow war as a bachelor and bachelorette party, a war that spanned the nation, Eclipse couldn’t help but feel nervous like no other. “So many...oh crap, had it not been that the entire of Equestria would have a hit out on me I would pull a runner right now!” Eclipse thinks out loud as a DTL opens up down the castle.

When He turned out came his cousin and all his family, save for the infants, and four surprise additions he noticed. “Sup?” Zeke asked.

“Hey Zeke, glad you could make it Cuz!” Eclipse said, his broad smile not doing much to hide his nerves. “Who are the new Wifes?”

“Pinkie and Rune managed to get a new wife cap for Daybreak and therefor all Unity worlds… so they went hunting for four more… this is Moon Dancer, A.K. Yearling, Maud Pie, Pinkie’s sister, and Pureblood, Celestia’s adopted niece.”

“Well, if the last one is married to you, they can’t be as bitchy as my reflection’s...I swear...selfish bigot. Anyways, you're just in time, only a handful of people have arrived.” Eclipse said, fiddling with his bowtie.

“Really?” Zeke tool a look outside. “What? Equestria from here to the Crystal Empire only show up?”

“It’s alot of ponies…” Eclipse says as he takes a deep breath

“Also…. Oh crap.” Zeke said, his jaw dropping.

“What, is core attacking or something?” Eclipse said, his voice betraying his hopefulness for once.

“Odder, your human dad is here… man, even as a pony Josh sticks out.”

Eclipse peared in and his jaw dropped. Sure enough, Josh Ventral, disguised as a pony, is sitting, admittedly in the far back corner, but he is still there. “Even after he gave me the ring he was going to propose to mom with...I never expected him to show today…” Eclipse said in disbelief and happiness at the same time.

“You're telling me. So wanna call him out?”

“Only if you want to, something tells me Core doesn’t know he’s here, or if he does, he is using him like an unknowing pawn.”

“Hard to tell… hang on.” Zeke walked out into the crowd, Josh fidgeting when he saw Zeke, even more so when Zeke got closer to him. After a short stair down Josh got up and followed Zeke back to where Eclipse was. “So you sneak out?”

“Walked out more like it.” Josh said. “Also as much as I enjoy my junk swinging with every quadrupled step in this body I could really go for some pants.”

“It does take awhile to get used to.” Eclipse admis with a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “And Josh...Dad….thanks for coming.”

“I missed out on only my own wedding I'm not missing out on my sons wedding. Also I have some info. Core stole a Castle Oblivion and is using it to make mass production clones of the family. Me included. They got a number tattooed on them and are nothing but darkness. They lack humanity and follow Cores orders to a T… also came to say sorry for shooting you that time and, uh, slaughtering half the town…”

“It was Orders...and to be honest, I’m sorry for trying to blow you up with magic.”

“Kid, I survived a hydrogen bomb once, magic ain't got nothin on me.”

“You only survived because you were in the ocean and has a small sub hidden under the boat.” Zeke cut in. “Which you made me built part of…”

“Still say it was the best summer a ten year old like you at the time could have had.”

“It does sound pretty cool, almost like a crime action movie.” Eclipse jokes, glad his nerves are calming.

“That's our life.” Josh said. “Also… Core has a new allie. One you do not want to mess with.”

“That's reassuring. Well, time for the heros of this story to get stronger, right author?” Eclipse said much to the confusion of the others present.

“Wow you take after your mom…” Josh admitted. “She did that a lot when we were dating.”

“Well it makes sense. All our life’s are are just stories, so who says no one writes them?” Eclipse said with a smile. “But thanks dad...Recently it’s been harder to remember mom, and I needed that.”

“You're welcome. Also I have a three way to get done with before this wedding starts.”

“Wait what?” Eclipse said as he tried to double take on that.

“Yeah. Just because it's your wedding doesn't mean you get to have all the fun. That blue stallion and grey mare in front are open to it.” Josh pointed out the couple in the crowd which was… his rebirth parents.

Eclipse blushed before burying his face in his hooves. “My remaining parents in a three way….did not need that image in my head….”

“Welp, give a JawJa to your wives for me.” With that, Josh left into the crowd and Eclipse's other parents followed.

“That...happened.” Eclipse said to Zeke in utter shock. “What's a JawJa?”

Zeke whispered it into Eclipse's ear. “Something a family ancestor invented… Basically an all night oral sex thing with duct tape, cattle prods, and at least five gallons of lube… figure the rest out…”

“Oh my stars…..that’s….well...knowing how Luna and Fluttershy are, they would suggest that sooner or later.” Eclipse admits

“Rune had me do that just last week… though she added jelly to replace the lube… “ Zeke admitted as Rune grinned a pervy grin. “Speaking of… open her gift in private please.”

“Will do. Don't want any kids here to see what that Succubus has planned.” Eclipse says with a eye roll. “So, how did you deal with the nerves of your weddings? I can barely handle mine, and I’m only marrying two mares!”

“Like this.” Zeke grabbed Eclipse by the back of the head, and rammed the front of it into the nearest wall twice, the dropped him. “Nothing like head trauma to take away the nerves.”

“You are so a Ventral.” Eclipse groans as he got up and shook his head. “Though that surprisingly did help.”

“The pain keeps the nerves away, as does the headache but you can muscle through that.”

“True...Though I already had to deal with a death threat from Celestia.” Eclipse said with a laugh as he glanced at the clock. Not much longer… about an hour if I'm right. he thought as he turned back to Zeke. “So what's been up with you?”

“Other than the new wives… some new babies… usual.” Zeke replied. “You?”

“Took my Mark of Mastery by dying and going into kingdom hearts, dealt with a few big daddies and little sisters, opened an orphanage and gave the kids keyblades. The usual.” Eclipse responded jokingly.

“You did what?” X asked, taking control of Zeke in seconds.

Oblivion and Oathkeeper flashed to Eclipse's side before Oath spoke. “I had to release his heart to free Oblivion, and I wasn't about to craft him.”

“Oath… this was your idea?” X spoke, his tone expressionless.

“I wasn't about to lose Oblivion.” She said as Oblivion interrupted.

“Look, We know it's against the rules, but this it Oath we're talking about. She normally follows them to the letter. You can let her off easy...right?”

“Do you remember what happened to the last Keyblade to break this rule? They were executed for it...”

“I know.” Oath responded solemnly. “But… for my twin… it would be worth it.”

“I’ll need to talk with father about this.” X closed his/Zeke’s eyes, entering a mediation for a bit. To Oathkeeper, Oblivion, and Eclipse, it felt like time stood still. Worry and after five minutes, X opened his eyes. “We have decided.”

“What is going to happen to Oathkeeper?” Eclipse asked in a worried tone.

“What we decided on requires a friend of father's. He will be here shortly. You’ve met him actually.”

“Don't tell me…” Eclipse said with a groan despite his smile. “Let me guess, Cript?”

“You guessed it.” Cript said, falling from the ceiling. “Damnit… my one bad landing.” He said, getting up. “Eclipse, Zeke. So KH called in a favor and I am here to deliver.”

“What is going to happen to my sister?” Oblivion asked with uncaractic worry.

“Not just her.” Cript said, grabbing both Oathkeeper and Oblivion. “This is a shared punishment for you two and Eclipse.”

“What is it?” Eclipse asked as he looked at his two companions.

Cript sent a wave of code and blue electricity over Oathkeeper and Oblivion, the two gasped from a slight pain, but they were quickly engulfed by a bright light and their bodies started… changing. Cript dropped them, where Oathkeeper stood now sat a white mare with a blue mane with Oathkeeper’s Keychain as a cutie mark, and where Oblivion fell now stood a black stallion with a purple mane and Oblivion’s keychain as a Cutie mark. “Ponies… til your dad says otherwise. Meaning you can’t help Eclipse in a fight like you used to.”

“Well shit.” all three said at the same time, worry egged into Eclipse’s face.

“What can’t you do?” Zeke asked Cript as he took back control of his own body.

“I can’t ride a skateboard… weird, I’ve ridden solar waves and commits but I can’t figure out a damn piece of wood with wheels…”

“Damn… now I really hope I didn't jinx it when I thought Core’s been rather inactive with my world.” Eclipse said as he helped Oblivion and Oath get to their hooves.

“This is so weird.” Oblivion said.

“Better than an execution.” Oath replied as she nodded to Eclipse in thanks.

“You two grab a seat. We’ll explain this to Luna and Fluttershy tonight before bed.” Eclipse said as the two ex-keyblades nodded and went to find a seat.

Zeke chuckled, watching the two nearly trip over every step. “Damn they are like newborns walking.”

“Sure am glad I don't have to learn to walk again. Twice is enough.” Eclipse said as he swear Cript had a pained yet knowing smile for a second.

“Well if anything happens I’ll lend you a Keyblade, Kay?”

“Thanks cuz, but something tells me Criptic here wouldn't allow that. Part of the punishment and all. Ain't that right?” Eclipse said to the god.

“...All I can say is that this is a fixed event in the… storyline. What happens here… happens.” Cript snapped his fingers, vanishing in a blink.

“That wasn't worrying at all...totally not worrying what's so ever.” Eclipse said dripping with sarcasm.

“I’m gonna get the family settled. You… sneak in and surprise the brides early.” Zeke said, leading his massive family to the main area.

“Isn't that supposed to be bad luck?” Eclipse called out with a laugh before walking in the direction of where his brides are anyways. Down a hall and through a door he heard them chatting through a door.

“So how many foals you think we have?” Fluttershy’s voice came through the door.

“I’m a bit big already for one foal… maybe twins for me?” Luna’s voice replied to Fluttershy. “You think the babies, baby, are they going to be an alicorn or?”

“Won’t know til we get the ultrasound.”

Eclipse smiled gently, the kind of smile reserved for his mares when they were alone and not *cough* bussy. Quietly opening the door a crack, Eclipse listened a bit more.

“So why has Celestia been sending threats to Eclipse again?” Fluttershy spoke up again.

“She is overprotective of me, she has been since we were foals. She came up with any excuse for me to not raise the moon out of fear I’d hurt myself when Eclipse saved me from being Nightmare Moon. Personally I think she’s just lonely up there since I moved here to Ponyville to be with Eclipse. Oh stars I hope she doesn’t do something rash.”

“Like?”

“Once when we were teenagers, there was a flood that would have threatened most of Equestria… Tia used her connection to the sun and evaporated all the excess water in seconds. She nearly burned her horn out and managed to scorch the earth around her so bad… well, let’s just say that the badlands weren’t always a desert.”

“No!”

“Yes, it was once like the Everfree til that day. Took Tia a month to use basic levitation again after that. Thankfully Discord was a friend to us at the time and took over the sun and moon for us… so long as he got to play pranks without risk of punishment. Was a long year for Equestria.”

Eclipse shivered as he imagined a angry keyblade wielding Celestia using the Sun to fry him. Yeah...that's nightmare fuel. Eclipse thought to himself.

“So what did your parent’s think of this wedding?” Luna asked Fluttershy.

“They’re thrilled. My brother is stuck in a hair studio showing in Baltimare so only my mom and dad are here. I’m glad bro finally has both a stable job and actually is doing something he cares about, but I do miss seeing him around.”

“I suppose the same can be said for me and Tia, I love Eclipse with all my heart but Tia has to miss the wedding because some prick nobles won’t shut up over a hundred year old land dispute.”

“Yesh, don’t they have lives?”

“You’d think, but so long as those nobles adopt of manage to screw when they have a millisecond to bear foals the fewdes will live on. It’s things like that that make me miss Equestria from a thousand years ago, nobles were given their title based on years of service to the crown and courage in battle, land disputes were settled with hard trials or competitions, and arguments were settled with hoofticups rather than two babies crying over wanting the same thing.”

Eclipse found this the opportune moment to step in. He opened the door and said. “I agree, nothing is solved though he said she saids. You want to settle something, settle it, don't bring it to the crown.”

Fluttershy and Luna jumped. “Eclipse! isn’t this a bad luck thing?” Luna asked with flurty eyes.

“Technically yes, but when have I needed luck?...besides in finding two mares in my life who put up with my crap I mean.” Eclipse says with his smile.

“Well, one is a princess, the other the element of kindness…” Fluttershy said as she walked up and kissed Eclipse. “I’d say that’s more luck than anything.”

Eclipse kissed her back. “I just realised something...Fluttershy, thanks to Luna, you and I,after today, are a Prince and princess by marriage.”

“You just realized?” Luna chuckled.

“Hey, it was the last thing on my mind when I proposed.” Eclipse chuckled, pulling Luna in for a kiss as well.

Luna put a hoof to Eclipses mouth before he got close enough. “Save it for the wedding.” She cooed. “So have all the guests arrived?”

“Most of them. A few stragglers are still pouring in and all my parents, both post and pre reincarnation are going at it before the wedding. Other than that everyone is here.” Eclipse said, still trying to wrap his head around the fact that Josh is banging Velvet and Night Light.

“That’s good. You know I always dreamed of my wedding, though, from the times, I expected a larger herd.” She gave a small blush.

Eclipse sighed. “We can expand the heard later if you two want, just don’t make it too hard to control.”

“Kinky.” Fluttershy said, sending a pink blush to flood Eclipses cheeks. “Heh, looks like Pinkie guessed right.”

“What did she guess?” Eclipse said

“Me saying kinky would make you blush.”

“Well….damn. I don't have a good retort for that one.” Eclipse mumbled before smiling again. “I’d better go and let you two finish up. Never in my life did I’d think I’d get married, let alone to two beautiful mares.”

“No drinking.” Fluttershy cooed as Eclipse was heading towards the door.

“Fiiine” Eclipse groaned out playfully as he headed back to the main crowd. Twilight turned and smiled knowingly at Eclipse before taking her place with the other bridesmaids. Applejack, Rarity and Pinkie were all giggling and planing something, though Eclipse could take a guess the moment Twilight’s name was mentioned. Spike and Shining, along with Cadence and Trixie were all playing a game of poker, with Cadance having the apparent lead. Rainbow was off mostly by herself with Gilda and Sorin, having a friendly chat while Justin and Chearille were sitting down holding hands… and hooves... “This day is looking so well...I hope I didn’t Jinx it.”

“Hey kiddo.” Josh said walking up to Eclipse.

“Hey dad, done already?” I asked, now desensitised to the fact.

“Yup… three, two, one.”

“OH MY STARS!!” A mare yelled near the bathrooms.

“Yup. Heh, never pass out after bathroom sex, especially public bathroom sex.”

“I’ll take your word for it...And my other mother and father are still able to walk straight right?”

“No idea. Wait, wait… those are… right. Damn…”

“Yup. All my parents just had a threesome, right before my wedding. And the scariest part of this is I’m not that shocked to be honest.” Eclipse admits. “I went from you and my mom, to those two who plow like rabbits. I’m not even surprised.”

“Heh, well If I stick around I know who I’m bunking with. Core’s been using the clones more than the family so we’re getting the plan ready fast, only issue is my old man and your cousin.”

“Well...We’ll cross that bridge when we get there I guess. Wolf is still suppressing my killing mood. For some reason it still hasn’t ended apparently.”

“Then I got some good news for you. One of the Core’s has this thing, it takes away the junk in us that activates it, we get our hands on that then you won’t have to worry about it.”

“Hopefully. But in this crazy universe you never know what is going to happen.” Eclipse said with a chuckle. “But I already killed one family member, I don’t want to be the cause of two more.”

“Wait, that was… you? Dude she was pregnant.”

“I...I didn’t know at the time… and even if I did, it was like I lost control. I was trying to fight without killing t first, but after she hurt Oathkeeper, Oblivion screamed and I...I lost it.” Eclipse said, looking down as his body shakes from the guilt.

“Even so, yikes… Maybe… I have an idea.”

“What is it?” Eclipse asked as he looked back up as the Stallion that is Josh Ventral.

“Core keeps samples of both memories and DNA of us to clone at his new facility. If you find the memory and DNA of her when she was pregnant, and make sure the machine keeps her, well, her when she comes out, would that be like bringing her and the baby back from the dead?”

“I..I think so. But wouldn’t they simply not care about the child's safety or even other family?” Eclipse asked as he tried to be hopeful.

“That’s because he can make the thing that makes the clone remove that, make sure it’s added and she’s back from the dead.”

“Okay...I’ll keep in under my list of priorities when we finally strike back.”

“Only reason Core won’t do it is because it mixes light into the machine, the clone would come out but the machine would break not long after. It really can’t handle light.”

“So if say I was to step in it, it would break and be useless. That’s really good to know.” Eclipse sad with a smile before turning back to Josh. “I really and glad you showed. Maybe someday we can bond over a night of drinks or something.”

“Sure, I got a drink cocktail that would definitely kill normal people.” Josh nodded as he walked off.

“I’ll have you try some Devil’s Poison as well!” Eclipse call out as he walk up to the ‘altar’. It was only a minute after he stood up there and people started to sit did the music start to play. Eclipse took a glance to Zeke and his family with a nervous smile as the door opened. Luna and Fluttershy both walked down the aisle, giddy smiles plastered on their faces.

The music began as the two walked down the aisle. It felt like time had slowed down while they did. Eclipse saw them before the wedding started but somehow they just looked even more stunning. As they neared Eclipse, all the nerves that he had built up suddenly vanished as the vows began, Derpy being the one to perform them.

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate not only holy matrimony, but also the first herd marriage in over a hundred years. If any should have reason for these three to not be wed, speak now or forever hold your piece.”

Eclipse looked around o see no one, not even the few annoying nobles that party cashed speak out. Eclipse smiled before nodding to Derpy.

“Then do you Lun-”

“I think there is a just reason.” Eclipse’s blood went cold as he turned around, seeing Core… and a new Yellow standing next to him. “Sorry if I’m late, shopping is a hassle.”

“What are you doing here Core? I don't recall sending you a invite.” Eclipse said smoothly, hoping and praying he doesn't notice Oblivion and Oathkeeper looking ponies near the front.

“Aw, I have hoping to at least drop off my gift.”

“You, Core, the man trying to bring this realm to the void, who would like nothing more than for those I love to die, have a gift for me?” Eclipse asked with scepticism

“Yes.” Core snapped his fingers, the new Yellow summoned two VERY large handguns. “A reason to kill again.”

Yellow opened fire on the crowd. Zeke and his family acted fast in using Reflect and opening DTL’s to which ponies, people, and all but Unum of his family running into them as well. He summoned X and summoned the Master Keeper, tossing it to Eclipse as he caught it in his magic. “Consider it a loan.” Zeke said.

Eclipse nodded before he and the keyblade wielders of his reflection all got ready. Oblivion and Oathkeeper were casting reflect over the civilians so they could escape, running with them as they fled the fight.

Yellow didn’t light up on his assault. His ammo never seemed to lessen til one shot broke through the Reflect Twilight was holding up over Fluttershy and Luna. Twilight reacted, teleporting in front of them. As she did, the bullet shot a hoof sized hole into her neck. She immediately fell over, unmoving.

The room felt like it flowed in slow motion for Eclipse. He felt Twilight's thoughts go through his head as he watcher her body collapse. His heart beat so loud it was defining as Twilight’s voice rang through his head. “I’m sorry everyone.” Eclipse didn’t even remember getting in front of her, Trixie holding Twilight in her arms as she cried out. Wolf was even silent as Eclipse reached over to Twilight, closing her eyes. “Protect her.” Was all he said to Trixie was he stood up. Zeke and X both froze when they heard Eclipse voice. It was as if hundreds of distorted voices were speaking as one as Eclipse opened both his healed eye, and the black and red pit that has become the other one.

“DIE!” He yelled as he stared into the abyss in his heart and offered a hand. “Let me kill this ass, and you can be free.”

Under his mask, Core grinned. “Just as expected. Yellow, deal with him.” Yellow nodded, his gun changing into two black Kingdom Keys as he vanished in a haze. Eclipse was side swiped repeatedly even though Yellow was unseen.

Eclipse at first started to cuckle before breaking out into a full out laugh as his distorted voice didn’t help the manic sound of his laugh. He growled as he tried to grab one of the keyblades, raising Master Keeper, who to any who could hear keyblades could hear it begging to be released from his grip.

Yellow reappeared, palm striking Eclipse ten feet into the ground. Eclipse laughed as he stood up out of the ruble, his wounds healing, but not with fur, but oily black skin. “Vengeance!” He cries out laughing.

Yellow grabbed Eclipse by the horn, snapping ot off and stabbing him in the neck with it. “Let's see what he does Yellow.” Core said as Yellow jumped back.

Eclipse tore out the horn, slicing his neck open in the process as he just continues to laugh madly. Black and red blood spurt out as he charges at Yellow and Core, wielding the snapped horn as a knife. His eyes are red and black, his missing eye forming a shadow variant of it while one of his hooves starts to have bone claws pierce through his skin.

“A stage two transformation. Interesting.”

Eclipse goes to stab Yellow, traveling at a speed only Zeke and the Cores can track. “Rip apart!” He yells as he tries to stab Yellow from the back.

Core walked in front, jabbing two fingers in Eclipse’s head. “Leech.” Eclipse quickly felt pain, like hooks dragging the power he was using out of his body. His skin returned to normal, as did his injuries. His horn still broken off and his neck… still sliced open. Once Eclipse was drained of his power Core dropped him to bleed out as he and Yellow walked into a DTD.

Eclipse gripped his throat before glancing at his horn. He grips it and fires it off with his own life force acting as a force to blast the horn towards the DTD. As he does so, a purple star floats over and enters him, helping fuel the attack that much more.

The DTD closed, and as everyone ran towards Eclipse, time froze. “Well that went about as bad as expected…” Cript said as he walked through the time frozen room.

Eclipse looked up at Cript, blood frozen in time in his throat. He looked back at where the DTD was, noting that the horn he had shot through went with them. “Why…” Eclipse croaked out at the Deus ex Machina..

“Excuse me?”

“Why...couldn't you help.” Eclipse said as he looked back over at Twilight’s corpse, tears welling in his eyes.

“Admin… I now oversee and advance the realms. Threats make themselves all the time. Part of my job is finding the right people to pick as the heros of all. I… am not allowed to interact in certain events. This ripple was… the one with the best long term outcome.”

“So...Twilight….sister had to die?”

“If she didn't, your wives would have. Though. I can do a favor. Question is, are you going to accept? I can't break rules for anyone like I used to, now that's been restricted to family. Admin rules are bull crap.”

“So...if I join your family...you can bend the rules...by working a loophole?”

“Can, have, and am ready to.”

“Fine...if it has even a chance to bring her back I'll accept.”

Cript held out a hand. “Welcome to the family… And sorry but this isn't even the worst way a child has joined.”

“I bet...will all the crap in this realm...I'd be surprised if I was the only me you've adopted.” Eclipse said as he reached out to take the offered hand.

They shook and in a blink Eclipse felt… fine… save for the changes. His upper body was anthro, his mane a familiar color of blue, and his lower body… was that of a giant snakes. “Wow… That's actually a first.” Cript said, shrugging the surprise off as he went over to Twilight's corpse.

“What is, the fact that my upper body is anthro or that my lower half is now a naga?” Eclipse said trying to move and falling on his face.

“Cons, gotta learn a new method of “walking” and get reacquainted the hands. Plus your new… manhood. Pro, as a naga, no longer is the call of nature an issue.” Cript said as he kneeled down to Twilight's body. “Alright, two options. One, I put her soul and mind into a very realistic synthetic body, two, I put her soul and mind into your assistant. It's that little gadget on your arm.”

“If I let her have a body, she, trixie, applejack, rarity and Pinkie will be able to have that herd, but she will never be able to have a foal of her own unless she adopts. Plus there is always the chance Core will destroy her again. But if I choose the assistant, she will be safe, but unable to be with those that care for her.” Eclipse thinks out loud before sighing. “Let's give her a body, it's what she would want.”

“Okay. Also you do not know the kind of robots out there now.” He snapped his fingers, an almost identical version of Twilight's body appeared, the only difference was the feathers of her wings were metallic and her horn was chrome.

“Okay then, that's both cool and creepy.” Eclipse says, getting off the floor shackley.

“Her body is robotic yes, but just some dna.” Cript plucked a hair off of Twilight's corpse and onto the muzzle of the robot. It absorbed the hair and glowed faintly. “There. Eating will be optional for her, but she can have foals. That's the key feature. A.I. lifeforms back home were deemed True lifeforms and as such I invented bodies that can reproduce that they can control.”

“This is not how I planned my wedding.” Eclipse said, looking around at the time frozen people, from Zeke to Josh, all rushing to where he is or checking on Twilight’s body.

“Last two parts.” Cript placed a hand into Twilight's body, pulling out a glowing orb with a pink heart inside it. He touched her forehead with his other hand, a ball of electricity flowed into his palm. “Soul, heart, and mind.” He placed them into the robotic body, it glowed faintly again before she jumped awake, her eyes looking robotic also. “And she lives again.”

“Twilight!” Eclipse says happily before falling over again, his long snake body still impossible to move in. “Damn it.”

“Eclipse?” Twilight spoke. “I feel… Really different… why are you humanoid and half snake? And Shining Armor's mane colors?”

“Well...I made a deal with this god here, I get adopted by him and become a member of his family, and in return...Well...turn around and look down.” Eclipse said, pushing himself up again. “Damn it, I already had to learn how to walk twice as a kid, but now a third time?”

Confused, Twilight turned around and upon seeing her own corpse, rightfully screamed. “How in the Fuck?!?!”

“You took a bullet for Luna and Fluttershy and...well died. I kinda lost it after that.” Eclipse says sheepishly.

“T .. Then how am I here if I am there?”

“That would be Cript right over there. He had a robotic body made and placed your neural pathways as well as your Heart and soul into it. It can do everything your old body could, even have kids. Eating is optional as well, so imagine all the all nighters you could pull!” Eclipse said before chuckling. “I'm starting to sound like a spokesperson.”

“So… wow… just… How?” Twilight asked, looking at Cript.

“Magic and abilities beyond any god.” He replied simply.

“Yeah, new dad or not, you're still cryptic as hell.” Eclipse jokes before sighing. “Seriously, how am I supposed to move?”

“First, let's start time again.” Cript snapped his fingers, and everyone nearly fell over. “Sorry about that.”

“Ugh… you again?” Zeke spoke, getting up. “Wait… Eclipse… A robo Twilight and dead Twilight… okay so… Weirdest wedding ever.”

“You are telling me, not want I had planned that's for damn sure.” Eclipse mumbles as he looks around the trashed room.

“So… Should we pick this up in Daybreak?”

After some time thanks to Eclipse falling every five seconds, the group of Trixie, Luna, Fluttershy, Eclipse, Josh, Zeke and Cript make it into a private room in Daybreak. “My face hurts so much right now.’ Eclipse grumbled.

“Kid, it's not that hard.” Cript said, in a flash of light turning into a red naga pony anthro. “See?” He said, moving around with ease. “Think worm?”

“Move like a worm? I’ll give it a shot I guess.” Eclipse said in defeat as he tried to listen to Cript. He moved a bit easier, but was still shaky and nowhere near as fluid as Cript. “After we all have a talk, you’ll need to tell me who my mother is.” Eclipse said as the took seats in the room.

“Actually, I’m Surprised she hasn-” There was a sonic boom followed by a blur tackling Cript to the wall. It was a white anthro naga, with the same blue hair as Eclipse has now, but when Eclipse and Twilight saw her cutie mark where the anthro and naga parts connect made them drop their jaws. It was the same as their brother’s. “Spoke too soon.”

“Hi honey.” The naga lady spoke. “Finally checked my email.”

“Nope. I’m dead. None of this is real. Nope.” Eclipse said as he rubbed his eyes to make sure he wasn’t seeing wrong.

“Is your new mom… a female version of Shining Armor?!” Twilight questioned/freaked.

“I was hoping I was seeing things, because that complicates things even more than my human dad banging my pony dad and mom.” Eclipse said as he opened his eyes again to see that nope, he wasn’t seeing things.

“Wait what now?” Twilight asked in deeper confusion.

“Don’t ask…” Eclipse said, hanging his head while Cript and the ‘Shining Armor’ cuddled on the floor.

“Heh. Hon, you're embarrassing your new son.” Cript said, nuzzling her neck. “Eclipse, meet Gleaming Shield. As you can see Evolution was odd on her Equestria for her kind to all be half snake.”

“I can see that.” Eclipse says, trying to suppress the sudden urge to cuddle with his new mom. “So, if another reflection of Shining is my mom, does that technically make my Shining my uncle and my once twin sister my aunt?” he asks Cript, trying to wrap his head around all this.

“Don't think too much about it.” Cript says. “So anything you'd like to know about your mother?”

“Allow me?” Gleaming said, slithering up to Eclipse. “Anything you wanna know about your new body?”

“A few things, I’ll just list them. How do I move quickly to attack or defend when I need to. How do I...Use the restroom in this body. How do I, erm, Take care of my mares back home and is there anything I should know about it that I haven't asked?” Eclipse lists off.

“For defensive use your scales. As a demigod child they are now bullet proof, once you get the hang of it you can smash boulders with your tail. Hon, we’re nagas. Our food is digested bones and all, no waste, no need for the bathroom. As for your mares well, for both male and female nagas have a… flap mine covers my foal hole and yours covers your foal pipe.”

“O-oh...okay then.” Eclipse says with a small blush. “Any other details I should know?”

“Well as a naga how many stomachs do you think we have?”

“I’d guess….two?” Eclipse guessed, not used to his now internal organs.

“Three actually.” Gleaming corrected. “One for digesting large meals, the one in the pony half, upper half, regular cooked food, mainly veggies. Can't digest meat in that one, and the third which actually is meant to hold our young, elderly, or sick and injured. The third stomach generates air from the blood, oils that act as antibiotics and a healing accelerate, and we can send food there as well. So yes it's normal for us to “eat” our own kind or sentient life but by a mix of magic and instincts they always go down the tube towards the third stomach.”

“That’s….a mix of cool, useful, and creepy all rolled into one.”

“It's kinky.” Fluttershy said, making Eclipse's nose bleed and his face blush hot pink.

“W-we can mess with it later okay Flutters?” Eclipse stutters out.

“I look forward to it.”

“A-anything else?” Eclipse stutters out to Gleaming.

“Uh… I guess just your new canine teeth when biting something send either a paralysis or adrenaline venom, depends on your choice, and your new tongue is snake like so on average it's six to eight inches long.” Gleaming finished.

“I look forward to that.” Luna said

“S-so, selectable venom, Three stomach, one for anything, one for veggies and one for healing others, near impenetrable scales, and then all the stuff Luna and Fluttershy will be experimenting with. The only thing I need to know now is how come Cript was so surprised I became your kid.” Eclipse said.

“Cause so far you're the first adopted child to become the child of a naga mother.” Cript said, slithering up to Gleaming. “Naga race in the family count for a total of… 1.8% of my wives and 2% of kids, all kids born from their mothers or natural born nagas adopted.”

“So I’m the first of something in a family as big as yours? That's surprising.” Eclipse said honestly.

“Yes.” Both Gleaming and Cript said.

“Okay then. Next thing you tell me that I’m the only me you’ve met in this whole realm and multiverse thing.” Eclipse says with a laugh.

“Yes.” Crips says. “Compared to the rest your realms whole existence is… young. Infant even.”

“Man...Today was just supposed to be a wedding. Well, that's what I get for thinking something is ever that simple.” Eclipse sighs out as he looks to Twilight. “Any question’s of your own sis?”

“One…” Twilight said sheepishly.

“Well then, shoot.” Eclipse said, naturally coiling and sitting down without thinking about it.

“Are you still accepting wives Cript?” The question made Eclipse fall over.

“God damn it.” Eclipse mumbles to himself quietly as he looks to Luna and Fluttershy for help, just to see the two have a cheeky smile and Trixie to have a bright eye’s look.

“Say what?” Cript asked.

“Well, it's awkward I know given… Eclipse’s relation to you now but for one it seems like you're always accepting and my girlfriend and I are looking for a male for a herd.”

“I’m just going to keep quiet and let this play out.” Eclipse grumbles while Luna and Fluttershy trotted over to hug him, both of them giggling at his predicament.

“Uhh…. Sure…” Cript said unsure, which Zeke took note of.

“FINALLY!!” A VERY loud voice yelled from seemingly everywhere, which made Cript groan.

“What the hell?!” Eclipse yelled. “I’ve dealt with pinkie but that's on a whole nother level!”

“It's my first wife…” Cript said, a portal opening and… Lyra Heartstrings trotted out? “ Hi Lyr-”

The mare in question tackled Cript. “You finally said yes~” She cooed.

“He finally said yes? About what, marrying a form of Twilight?”

“Yeah.” Lyra said. “ When I started this never ending harem of ours I was the one this whole time gathering wives. I so far am the only one he said yes to marrying and dating.” She cooed, nuzzling Cript.

“I can relate.” Zeke commented.

“So, My sister, and now aunt, is the second one he has ever agreed to? Today gets stranger by the second….” Eclipse said as he tries to keep track on the craziness of today.

“I can and have fought untold evils, faced off the original satin, fight Psychopaths every other day, and yet talking to girls always messes me over… why I have been okay with whoever Lyra here approved.” Cript admitted.

“Well….that's a thing. So, Josh, are you okay with all this?” Eclipse asked his first father.

“Depends… You bi god man?” Josh asked.

“Yeah.”

“Second option.”

“Oh dear…” Eclipse said leaning back. “What is the second option.”

“Let me guess.” Lyra spoke. “Sexy time with Cript and then womanhood?”

“About right.” Josh confirmed.

“Not the only man to join then be either a futa or straight up woman.”

“.....my head hurts.” Eclipse whimpers to the laughter of his fancies.

“Before we leave you to wrap up this wedding Eclipse, I do have a question to ask.” Cript said

“Sure. The god who is now my dad and is marrying not only my sister but also my original father eventually has a question for me. Let’s hear it.” Eclipse said, his mane more of a mess than usual.

“Well, one of you by the name of Ben requested the maximum powers of being a part of this family withheld, you want them withheld til you feel it's right or full powers right away?”

Eclipse responded immediately. “Now. Not because I want power all that much, but because those I love dodged, and took, a bullet today, and I’m not going to be a prideful prick and deny power that could help protect them.”

“Alright, but you'll have to be enrolled in the family school tomorrow. Got to learn how to use those powers.”

“More school...Meh, not the worst thing that could have happened.”

“Should only take… seven to eight chap- months. Considering you're already an adult.”

“Smooth on the fourth wall breakage there old man.” Eclipse said with a chuckle “At least I’ll be able to defend my family better after it’s over.”

“My mind it kinda… in two places and the realities are… Different.”

“Okay then, well, at least the authors are taking it easy on you right?”

“No comment. Anyway so I guess Twilight is gonna be with me for a bi-”

“Actually…” Trixie spoke up. “Twilight and I were going to both date a nice male… and Applejack, Rarity, and Pinkie Pie were gonna jump on it.”

“Wait, when was this decided?” Twilight asked.

“A while ago, was going to be a surprise.” Trixie said with a blush.

“Come on Twilie, even I knew that!” Eclipse chuckled.

Twilight rolled her eyes. “Fine. So… How’s this work?”

“Well is Josh tagging along?” Cript asked.

“I have… a few things to do before I decide anything fully. I’ll have Eclipse call ya when I’m ready to go.” Josh shifted back into human form and opened a DTD. “This is not gonna be easy.” With that, Josh walked into the DTD, it closing behind him shortly after.

“Well, my life just got really confusing if I think to hard, and I still have a wedding to try and fix...damn, why can’t things just be simple for one day.” Eclipse said as he took a nervous glance to his new mom.

“Yes sweetheart?” Gleaming asked, seeing Eclipse look at her.

“Why do I have a really strong urge to cuddle you like I did my first mother?” He asked embarrassed.

“Depends, cuddling like just hugging or the way naga’s do it?”

“D-Definitely the first! Or at least I hope it is...I don’t know anymore!” Eclipse cried out as Luna pats him on the back giggling.

“How to Naga’s cuddle?” Luna asked.

“Two ways.” Gleaming started. “First is, well, one swallows the other while, using our third stomach to hug them all over, or we cuddle with our tales, wrapping them around and squeezing as tight as we can on each other.”

“That...did the change also change the way I think slightly? Because I don’t find that weird right now.” Eclipse asked Gleaming and Cript.

“It’s genetic for you now so… kinda.” Cript said. “Different body, different DNA, and therefore different racial norms, customs and ways of thinking.”

“Please tell me they will be also gone over in the lessons, I don't want to be a part of a race and come across another and then totally fuck up or something.”

“I’ll be your teacher for that part sweetheart.” GLeaming said with a smile. “SO, anything else?”

“I have a question.” Twilight said. “Is your world just, genderswapped to this Equestria or what? Where’s Cadance?”

“Cadance and I were dating, don’t get me wrong, but we also wanted to find a herd, captain of the royal guard and the princess of love, you can bet many males tried but Cript here won us.”

“That’s rather nice to hear, a relatively normal story for the first time today.” Eclipse said with a happy sigh.

“Well you all finish up this wedding, Twilight, Trixie, let’s get your friends and hope Lyra here doesn’t make this Equestria a new recruiting ground…” Cript says.

“No promises.” Lyra said.

“Something tells me she already has some mare’s picked out…” Eclipse said as he looked at the familiar pony.

“I didn’t become the goddess of marriage and children for nothing.” She chimed.

“Okay then...I have so much to learn later. For now, Flutters, Luna, could one of you open a portal back so we can hopefully salvage the wedding?” Eclipse asked.

“ALright, but second we get home we’re testing your new… features Fluttershy said, patting Eclipse’s cheek as she opened the DTL and walked in.

It took a while but we were finally able to find everyone who didn’t faint from Twilight’s or my appearance and round them up in the now makeshift room. “One way or another, I will marry and support you two.” Eclipse said determined.

“And we will get fucked by you.” Fluttershy said with a laugh. “Felt that had to be added to finish the day off.”

“And by the power invested in me, by mayor Mare, I pronounce you three, husband and wives, you may kiss the brides.” Derpy said a bit flustered. She had a slight phobia of snakes and seeing Eclipse wasn’t helping. Once vows were done she bolted out the door.

“Thanks Derpy!” Eclipse called out before smiling at his mares and leaning forward. He first kissed Luna, who was the first he dated, then moved to Fluttershy, who was exploring Eclipse’s new mouth. Once that was done Fluttershy and Luna looked at each other and kissed, making Eclipse blush a bit and earning an applause from the crowd that remained. “I love you two so much.”

Family Just Keeps Growing

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I woke up hurting all over. My entire body, from my new tail to my jaw was sore. Damn, those mares weren't kidding when they said it was going to be a long night. I thought as I sat up and smiled at the two mares wrapped up in my tail. At least we never got around to opening Rune’s gift just yet. I chuckle as I carefully tried to untangle myself from the mares. I was successful, but not without waking them up.

“Dah. Why'd you do that? Your tail is soft… Outside and inside~” Luna cooed.

I chuckle. “Someone who can walk strait needs to cook for the little ones.” I replied.

“You need legs to walk.” Fluttershy retorted.

“Fine, slither then.” I chuckled as I pet her mane, running my fingers through them.

“Ohh. Those hands are the best part of your change to be honest.” She purrs.

“Yeah, they are useful, in many ways.” I smiled as I make sure Luna wasn’t left out, petting her as well. Her ethereal mane felt different from Fluttershy’s, but in the way polished gems are to polished wood. Both were smooth and silky, and I loved them both equally.

I finished petting them and managed to slither downstairs… Where I caught the whiff of food being cooked. When I made it to the kitchen I saw mom there, cooking food while the kids all sat on her long tail eating. Did her tail get longer? “Morning sweetheart.” She said upon seeing me.

“Morning.” I responded before letting out a chuckle. “Not used to someone other than me or Shy doing the cooking.”

“Heh. I bet. Why don't you let your brother out so he can enjoy breakfast too?”

“Wolf?” I ask as I feel a pull on my heart, Wolf appearing besides me. Where my scales follow a gray primary, dark blue underbelly and black hinting the occasional scale, Wolf is a black primary with a purple underbelly and white spots. His torso still looks semi wolfish, but he looked more like a pony than a werewolf now.

“Daw. That's my two handsome men.” Mom said, making the foals giggle or gag.

“Wait, so Wolf/Eclipse is now my brother?” The two of us asked simultaneously.

“But I thought I was just his darkness given shape?” Wolf questioned.

“Oh how little children know.” Mom said.

“Apparently.” I grumbled slightly. Man, could this get more complicated.

“Yes it can Eclipse.” Wolf spoke.”You forgot our heart, and thus our minds are linked didn’t you?”

“....Yes I did….damn it.”

“Well let me ask you this than. What do you think happens to the personality of a soul when it's being reincarnated?” Mom asked.

“Hmm.” I hummed before snapping my fingers, ideas flowing through my head. “A few ideas come to mind. It is imprinted onto the new soul, it takes up a aspect of them, or it floats in the abyss until the authors have a useful plot device.”

“Uh… you are your father's son talking like that… they get placed as an aspect of the new mind and personality. In this case, your past life, now known as Wolf, is your total of your dark side. Likely from how he lived.”

“And because Eclipse couldn’t handle his own pain...it added to my own.” Wolf said with a thoughtful expression. “So in a sense I am a culmination of all past Eclipse’s, but I’m my own person?”

“Yup. And if you want I can call someone who knows who you were.”

“No thank you. I find that out, good or bad, it wouldn’t make a difference on who I am now.” Wolf answers.

“Alright. Well do you want to be able to live outside Eclipse? You'd still be connected but have your own body.” Mom offered.

“I...don’t know.” Wolf said, looking down. “I want that, but would I see Crim and Nightmare again?”

“I can do the same thing for those two easy.” Mom said, flipping a pancake. “God magic can do near anything. Even the kids Shy and Luna have in them Nightmare and Crim will be pregnant with their own/yours.”

“Thats...Amazing” Wolf said simply. “In that case, I’d like my own body.”

“Three new bodies coming up.” Mom said, snapping her fingers.

I immediately felt… cut off from Wolf somehow, but I could feel him mentally. “What in the?!” A shout came from the bedroom upstairs. “Eclipse!” Luna and Shy yelled.

“We probably should have warned them…” I said with a gulp as I slithered as fast as I could, still trying to get used to this new body.

Wolf followed too, him falling over since he needed to get used to his own body now. When I opened the bedroom door Luna and Shy were on one end of the room while Nightmare and Crim were on the other. A mix of fear and confusion from both parties. As mom said, Crim and Nightmare were pregnant. “Eclipse… how?” Luna asked.

“Long story short, Mom gave Wolf, Nightmare and Crimson their own bodies separate from ours.” I responded, slithering out of the way as Wolf fell through the door.

“Love?” Nightmare spoke, walking over to Wolf. “This is true?”

“Yeah,” He said, pushing himself off the floor. “I was offered my own body, but I didn’t want to leave you two...so she gave us all bodies.”

“Remind me to kiss that woman… Naga... Lady.” Nightmare said, levitating Wolf up and onto the bed. “Anypony who doesn't want to watch, please leave.” Nightmare said as she and Crimson began to pounce on Wolf.

I did have to drag Luna and Shy from watching and once they snapped out of it Luna turned to me. “So… Are they going to live here or?”

“We’ll probably be buying or building them a house next door.” I said with a shrug. “Not enough room for two different families plus the kids.”

We headed back to the kitchen and mom was serving the food. I noticed Scootaloo wasn't here. “Hey everyone, where's Scoots?”

They all pointed to mom, who just smiled. “She did attack me on sight. So I’m punishing her.”

“...You swallowed her into the third stomach didn’t you.” I deadpanned.

She nodded. “So full of energy that filly, She's still kicking.”

“Well, Divewing did choose her.” I responded, the kids looking at me, shock written on their faces that I wasn’t doing anything about Scootaloo.

“Oh she’ll be fine kids. A naga’s third stomach is meant to hold children of hurt or elderly that can't move on their own. She's fine. So Luna, Shy, enjoy Eclipse’s third stomach?” They both nodded, making me blush. “Daw. Good. See kids. Eclipse swallowed his wives and here they are fine and safe.”

A few ews went around as I grabbed a couple plates for the wives and I, setting them up and the end of the table. “It’s just a natural part of me now. On the upside, stars forbid anything happen to you kids, I can get you to a hospital in time.”
“It's more sterile in our third stomachs than in any surgery room.” Mom added. “So where's Wolf and his wives?”

A moan resounded through the building as I quickly cast a silencing spell on the bedroom. “There’s your answer.”I responded.

“Sweet. So how many kids in those bellies Shy, Luna?”

“I think I have twins.” Luna said. “I’m twice the size Fluttershy is.”

“Oh. I’m gonna be a grandma. Oh. Eclipse, your father will be here some time later to give you a late birthday week gift.”

“Birthday week?” I ask confused.

“There's an incalculable amount of siblings you have son. To make it simple the kids get a whole week in june to celebrate a massive birthday party for all of them, and in july the wives and your father celebrate a week long anniversary and our birthdays. It works.”

“I’m just going to not question it. So, other than to see me and Wolf, why are you here? Not that I don’t like you over, it’s just a surprise.”

“It's the day after your wedding silly. You three should be acting like Wolf and them upstairs. I know your father and I still act like that at home.”

“We were, then the girls passed out in the middle of it.” *I said looking at Luna and Shy’s dreamy smiles in remembrance.

“Daw. You need some special sex herbs, spells, I got ya.” Mom said, giving Luna and Shy a devious smile.

“...You evil woman. My pelvis will never forgive you.” I groan as I cover my face.

“You are a full fledged demigod son. Your pelvis can take a direct hit from a hydrogen bomb and still give it to your mares right.”

“Awe crap.” I said as my eyes go to pinpricks, looking as the two mares who think they're being sneaky as they try to get behind me.

“Girls, their are children present.” Mom reminded them. “Also.” Mom said, opening her mouth impossibly wide as a certain orange filly was pushed out of moms third stomach. “You calm now Scootaloo?”

“I’m gonna take a shower.” She said, leaving a trail of oil and saliva as she walked.

“She's a good foal…impatient and a tad rude but still good.”

“Yeah she is...I’m surprised she hasn’t found a home yet. Hell, I’m surprised any of them have not. For the most part they are well behaved and good kids.” I said downcast. I’ve had this orphanage running for over a month now and not one has been adopted.

“The problem with orphanages is that few couples can adopt or are able. Surprised Lyra isn't here yet. Your mama Lyra I mean.”

“Knowing the authors, I’ll do the countdown. 3….2....1.” I said with a sigh.

Nothing happened. “You are so your father's son.” Mom said. “Well if she won't then I can give it a try.”

“What are you going to do?” I asked.

“Fill out adoption paperwork… or…”

“Or?”

“Eclipse, you are part of the biggest family that adopt children and even adults like yourself, you can just adopt them. They already live here after all and your dad did tell me why you built this place. Maybe adopting those without a home can count too.”

Before I could give a answer, Pura, the little filly I helped out in the first day, ran over and hugged my side. “I..I...you already treat us like the daddy we want...please be our daddy?”

My heart melted as I picked her up and placed her on my shoulder. “I think Pura made up my mind for me.” I said with a smile as the rest of the foals cheered happily.

There was quick flashes of light as all the foals suddenly had their hind legs turn into tails and some had their front hooves turn into hands and a few stayed hooves. “Yay! Second grandma of the family! Eat your six tits Den!” Mom cheated.
“What was that about?” I asked

“Your mama Den also adopted a kid like you, as in from the same world and she was the first grandma of the family because her newly adopted son adopted a bunch of kids too. Finally I can show off my grandkids to her. She shows off hers. Also she's a large dire wolf woman with six breasts. That's where that six tits came from.”

“Okay then...so this happened.” I chuckled while Luna and Shy hugged me.

“Sister is going to freak out when she comes to visit.” Luna said.

“You think?” I say sarcastically as I hear a slight yell from the bathroom. “Looks like Scootaloo became a Naga.”

“That reminds me.” Mom said. “On my world pegasus nagas have six wings. Two on their back, two larger ones on their mid section of their tails, and two small ones on their tails tip. I just noticed Scootaloo was the only pegasus here.”

“Yeah, We have a lot of earth ponies, two gryphons, and about five unicorns.”

“Griffins aren't Naga's on my world… wonder how they'll look. Do those two usually come down for breakfast?”

“They sleep in until everyone else has eaten. They got into that habit because I prepare meat for them.” I shrug.

“Ah. Well now that everyone is a naga meat can be eaten here to your hearts content. As for Luna and Shy… I can do something about that.” Mom snapped her fingers, Shy and Luna glowed for a second before the light faded. “Redid your DNA a bit. You can now eat meat… I’ll explain the bonuses later.”

“I’ll go check on scoots.” I said, putting Pura down as she slithered over back to her seat. “Man, the kids adapted faster than I did….”

“Must be a child thing.” Mom said, nuzzling her new grand kids. Man, a new son, then two, the four new daughters in law and now a ton of grandkids in two days… She's having a good week.

I went over to the bathroom to see a nervous wreck of a Scootaloo. “Scoots, I’m here, it’s okay.”

“I...Look… awesome!” She yelled, flapping all her wings… And flying. “I can Fly?!? I can fly!!” She cheered, flying out the bathroom in a haze.

“That's my girl!” I laughed out as I saw her fly around the main living room.

“Scoots can finally fly.” Fluttershy said, kissing my cheek.

“I know. She finally has what she wanted.” I said happily as I hug Flutters.

“So what should we do right now then now that we are officially a family?”

“Well, I know later I have lessons about the family. But for now? I just want to spend time with my family.” I said as I snuggled Shy.

“Starting to wish we built a guest bedroom.” Shy said. “Oh. I almost forgot, your parents are in town still, the ones you were reborn into here. They're gonna visit.”

“Oh cripe” I said with a smile. “Velvet is going to freak when she finds out about the adoption.”

“Didn't they have something to tell you anyway?”

“Other than carrying quadruplets? I don’t know, we’ll just have to wait and see.”

“So… we got time… Luna bought a stack of new games that are sitting in the game room. Wanna check them out?”

“New games? Count me in!” Sorry, but no matter how many years pass, I am so a gaming addict, beaten only by Luna.
Shy, Luna and I, as well as some of our new kid's, all went into the game room. The new games were all rated E-T, and one was a Pc game Luna installed on all the computers called Warframe. It was a higher rated game, M, but seemed calm enough. Considering some of the other things. It didn’t take long before the space ninjas had a number of us hooked, and the rest of us set up a competition on mario kart.

When Scout’s came off her flying high she jumped on a pc and started playing her personal favorite, Team Fortress 2. It was bloody ues but to be honest how can you see the violence in that game and still not think it a kids game. It's just too damn cartoony. “So do you know why you changed Scoots?” I asked as I played next to her, trying out Warframe.

“You adopted me.” She replied.

“Mhm! And if we can both get Rainbow Dash to just come out with it, and Fluttershy and Luna to approve, you could have a awesome third mom~”

She froze, then let out a joy filled scream that managed to crack her computer screen before she flew THROUGH the wall, leaving an exact outline of her body in the wall. “You just opened a can of nagas.” Shy said. “My best friend as my wife also… I can see it.”

“Now if only we can get that tsundere to admit it.”

“Who?”

“We all know Rainbow won’t admit to anything ‘uncool’. And she’s not exactly subtle with her hidden feelings.” I said with a small eye roll. “I could tell she wanted to ask, but with you and Luna about to marry me, she didn’t want to ruin it for you.”

“Oh… poor Rainbow.”

“Well, we need to talk to Luna after she’s done with her mission before we do anything about it. We could get scoots in on it too.”

“I think she left to bring Rainbow over here.”

“Well....luna better finish her mission.” I said looking at the gaming princess.

There was a knock at the door. “I’ll get it.” Shy said, slowly flying out the door.

“Let’s hope I don’t have to go to class before I talk to her.” I said as I waited for Luna to finish.

A minute passed and I saw mom and dad, Nightlight and Velvet, come up the stairs. “Hello son.” Dad said.

“Hey dad, what is it with your sons and marrying royalty, and for the wedding day to be crashed by some threat to the world?” I asked with a smile.

“I expected you to ask about us and your other world father in that three way on your wedding day.”

“I’ve come to terms with it.” I shrug. “Besides I don’t know and nor do I want to know what you guys did.”

“Well your mother and I came to say a few things before heading off.”

“Is something wrong?” I ask worried suddenly.

“Well for starters we aren't just adding your birth father… First birth father? To our marriage.” Moma Velvet said.

“Aren’t JUST adding?”

“That's where I come in!” Moma Gleaming sung, slithering her way into the room. “Your fathers and mother here are joining the family… As wives.”

“...oh cripe.” I said with my face in my hand. “Now my parents are technically going to be their daughters sisters and two of my dad are becoming my moms...Just accept it, just accept it.” I said, taking a deep breath. “That’s good for you two...three...”

“We know Twilight is going to be there but we can manage.” Night said. “Not the first time I would have been a mare either. Heh. If the condom would have broke you and Twilight would have been born from me.”

“Did not need that confusion in my life, so thank you condom not breaking.” I joked.

“Speaking of.” We looked at the doorway, and saw Cript in his pony form standing next to a VERY pregnant Twilight. “Hi mom, dad.” Twilight said. She walked over to me. “Eclipse. You're looking… slithery?”

“Nice one metal head.” I joked as I wrapped Twilight in a hug. “How’s my twin-turned-mother?”

“Pregnant. And happy. Guess how many foals?”

“Knowing Cript, over a hundred some odd kids?”

“About 3.9 million. So average. I never would have imagined being pregnant could feel so… Nice, if not a tad difficult to move.”

“Sigh. I’m going to need a drink before the day’s over.” I said, rubbing my brow.

“The heck happened here?” Cript said as he looked at the Scootaloo naga shaped hole in the wall. “Someone was… Eager.”

“Read the chapter next time Dad, I kinda told Scootaloo about Rainbow having a really obvious crush on me.” I said with a eye roll.

“Oh. Alright. So… Two things. One, I see two out of three of the new additions are here. And two. I have a surprise for you and Josh when he gets here.”

“Well, Josh did go to the realm of Darkness, probably to report in to Core…” I said, spitting out that bastard’s name.

“Or to leave.” Cript added. “Core clearly saw Josh at the wedding so he's likely quitting.”

“And trying to take as many of the family with him. Only two of them are actually loyal to Core.”

“And they're bastards.” We looked at the doorway, seeing Josh in his pony form with a large duffle bag on his back. “Ass hats tried to kill us at the front door. Never thought I'd say this but if Core didn't stop them I’d be dead.”

“Wait, Core stopped them? Seriously what is that guy’s angle already?!” I shout. Damn that guy pisses me off.

“Whatever it is he made it clear the only one of the Ventral family with his internet is Zeke and you. Oh, good everyone's here.” Josh said, seeing Nightlight, Velvet and Cript. “ So at the wedding you talked about a surprise?”

“Yeah, this.”

“What?” I said

Cript placed a small box on the floor. He opened it and there was an extremely blinding light. I covered my eyes and as they were covered I felt a pair of arms wrapped around me, hugging me. “My brave boy.” A voice I haven't heard in years spoke. When the light faded I saw it was her hugging me… mom...

I teared up as I slowly hugged back. “M-mom? I-is it really you?”

“Yes.” She cried. “I saw what you went through and… I’m sorry… I’m so so sorry!”

I rubbed her back as I held her close. “It wasn’t your fault. Besides, if what happened didn’t happen, who knows what would have happened.”

“Aurora…” Josh spoke, slowly walking over to her. “I… I…”

Mom grabbed him and had us both in a hug. “It's alright. Josh, you tried your best, and Colin… I’m so glad you came out so well. I was so afraid you'd be so hateful after…”

“Why would I be hateful, you raised me better mom…”

After our tender, teary reunion I turned to Cript...no. I turned to dad. “Thank you. Thank you...so much.”

“Hey. When you're something beyond a god.” He shrugged. “Better to break rules for closer than follow them hollow.”

“Couldn’t your bosses get mad or something?” I ask, still not leaving momma Aurora’s side.

“I got a promotion. I'm an Admin and my own boss now. Plus he wouldn't give a shot about this anyway. There were few rules he cared about or even remembered.”

“Oh...Okay...Thank you dad.” I said again, knowing I’m just repeating myself now.

“It's alright. And trust me, this is the normalest thing in this family… being the family. What we do can range from concluded to just plain odd.”

“I'll take your word on that.” I smiled.

“So tomorrow The teaching will begin. Today spend time with old and new family. Alright?”

“Will do dad. Besides, any second now I get Scootaloo will be dragging Rainbow Dash here, so some family/getting another possible marefriend time will be just what I need.”

“Also your mom is cooking naga style so… expect what you'd see in a vegas style buffet, but nine times the size.”

“Oh boy...No seriously, oh boy, I’m starving even after breakfast.” I said.

“Naga metabolism. You need a lot more protein and the most you ate was a nut muffins for protein this morning.”

“Geeze… Next thing you’ll tell me is I got pretty much a unique ability for Gleaming being my biological mom now.”

“... You answered your own question.”

“....you're kidding. What is it?” I ask as Josh spends time with Aurora.

“It's called Bunker. Your general defense is well, your defense at this level should be 387… with that ability it's 798. And defense spells can and will block attacks that's normally ignore defenses.”

“Hot damn. That’s going to be really, really useful.” I said as I realized something. “I never used Scan on you or Core before.”

“And?”

“With Core it takes from being able to strategies against the guy, and with you it would have been out of curiosity.”

“You can if you want. But what you see is either confusing or a lie.”

I shrugged and said “Scan.” ...and I felt like my brain hurt. What I saw was a normal sized HP bar, but there was nothing else everything looked either normal or… Too normal? It was too much so I turned off the ability and held my head. “Not looking at that again….”

“How so, er, why?”

“It was just...Things were either too simple or too normal...it just made my head hurt.”

“Try and figure out why.”

“Do I want to?”

“You can if you want.”

“I’ll try later, I already have a headache.”

“Alright then. So, let's see what's going on.” Cript dad said as he headed into the living room. I followed along with Twilight, Luna, Flutters, Mom and Josh dad. My old parents, new ones, and my wives were all chatting. Not sure whether to be scared or not.

“So everyone pretty much scattered.” I heard Josh speak in the conversation. “I came here, everyone else took their close family and headed off to other reflections and worlds. Not sure where anyone is.”

“Could be worse, Core could have let the other two try and stop you all.” I said behind me, just now realizing just how long my tail is. The thing is sixteen feet long! God damn how did I not notice that?!

“If Core isn't gonna come after us those two will out of spite.”

“Well then, good thing you’re going to be a part of Cript’s family then. Plus, maybe we can watch over them and make sure their safe if we can figure out where they are.” I said. I’m not losing more family, even if I never met them.

“That's my project. So Cript, we gonna do this or what?”

“Sure?”

“Time for dad to become a mom?” I asked, fully desensitized at this point.

“Yes.” Both Nightlight and Josh said. Cript just rolled his eyes and to my surprise, lit his horn. The magic felt intense as there was a flash over Josh and Night. When it faded they were mares… though Josh, and this is because ponies don't wear clothes, we saw SHE still had a malehood while also having a womanhood. But appeared as mare. “Damn I’m sexy!” Josh said, looking herself over. “And how I wanted my new bod to be.” Why does her new voice sound like a loud version of Fluttershy’s?

Don't get a nosebleed from my dad, don't get a nosebleed from my dad, don't get a nosebleed from my dad. I repeat constantly before another voice rings in my head. Shut up Eclipse, I’m still with my mares! I rolled my eyes at Wolf’s complaint. fine. “Glad you enjoy your new body.”

“Heck yeah!”

“Glad you can live out your fetish hun.” Mom said.

“Wait. Wait a moment, hold up. Two things. One, Dad-er mom? Whatever, had a gender futa fetish? And Two, dad, there is something on the mantle you want to give to mom.”

“Best thing when you're bi, And huh?”

“A certain...gift you let me hold on to.”

“Oh…” Dad- mom… Josh looked over at the fireplace, seeing the ring box. He used magic to levitate it over to him, then to mom. “I was gonna give this to ya the day… The day you died…”

Mom took it, and when she saw the ring, smiled and put it on, and somehow, shapeshifted into a pony. She was grey coated like me, but had a bright blond mane with a blue heart as a cutie mark. “You know I would have said yes.”

“Better late than never.” Josh said as they kissed, and once they broke that they dog piled on Cript.

“Gah! Surprise attack!” Cript yelped.

I reared my head back and laughed before not only did Luna and Fluttershy tackle me, but Lancerot decided to make a fool of me as Scootaloo and Rainbow Dash perfectly timed their tackle entrance, making two separate piles of fluff.

“Lunch is read- Cript, Eclipse, no sex before lunch.” Mom stated.

“Wasn’t the plan.” I groan out as Rainbow and Scoots snuggle me along with Shy and Luna. “So I take it Scoots told you?”

“Yup.” Dash said. “Just don't expect me to be like Shy and Luna all cuddly in public and junk.”

“Heh, wouldn’t dream of it Dash, wouldn’t dream of it.” I said nuzzling her gently.

“Also… can I ask your dad something? He’s the red stallion right?”

“Yup, that’s my biological adopted dad Cript.”

“Sweet.” Rainbow said, walking up to dad and whispering something in his ear.

“... Sure…” Dad said unamused. He lit up his horn again and in a flash… Dash was a griffin.

“Aw yeah!” Rainbow Dash cheered.

“You wanted to be a griffin Dash?” I asked

“My oldest and a good friend Gilda is a griffin. She used to be able to out race me cause griffins by nature have more endurance.”

“I know gilda, but she would beat you? Thats news to me. At least you kept your rainbow hair feathers.” I said with a smile.

“Now can we eat?” Mom asked.

“FOOD!” Me and Scoots yelled as we dove out of the pile, heading towards the kitchen at a breakneck pace.

When we reached the kitchen it was… different. Rather than our normal kitchen it was a TEN MILE LONG hall with a long ass table piled high with food from end to end… seriously the food piled up at least twelve feet.

My mouth along with all the other children who turned Naga, which was all of them, were salivating. Yeah it was a imposing amount, but I alone felt like I could eat all day until I get full. “It’s beautiful.” I said in awe.

“Oh you expanded the kitchen.” Cript said as he walked in.

“Yup. Dig in everyone!” Mom yelled out.

The Nagas were the first out as the Griffon kids came in. Despite being siblings, one gained the naga gene while the other was left alone. I of course barely notice as I stacked a plate high of many different foods before digging in. Best, family, ever.

Back To Basics

View Online

I found myself...in a white void. I have a feeling. “Cript?”

“Here.” I turned around, seeing him there, looking kinda down.

“Hey, something up?”

“Always, that’s why I am taking measures.”

“...I don’t like the sound of that.” I admitted, feeling worried when an all powerful reality bending being needs to ‘take measures’.

“Things are moving fast for you all, some more than others. So, I’m gonna make things slow down to a nice pace for you all.”

“So...you won’t be around for a while?”

“Not until you are all caught up. Your assistance will just be storage and some combat functions, but nothing other than that for now. I’ll be sure to give you all plenty of opportunities to get strong, but I will give you the option to change your form. You can be an anthro naga, your normal pony self, or a bit of a mix.”

“Oh, so now?”

“I guess.”

“Can’t I just...shift between?”

“Yeah, here.” Cript said, placing his hand on my head and...I could see, I knew how to shift between. Pony to anthro lamia, anthro lamia to pony. “Also, Oath and Oblivion’s punishment will be over in two days. Your mom, and other parents, will still be able to visit, just not me.”

“Oh, gonna miss ya, though, taking it slow will be nice to be honest.”

“Hey, catch up and you’ll be seeing my ugly mug again.” Cript said with a laugh. “Well, later Eclipse.”

“Later Cript.” I said, the man snapping his fingers as everything went white.

I woke up in my bedroom, surrounded by my loves. Didn't see Wolf around, so I shrugged, getting up and then waking my girls up and explaining what Cript told me. They took it well, happy to...well, experiment and role play with my being able to shift forms. I found Wolf and because of our link he already knew. He figured for looks sake, he'd stay Naga while I was pony.

I just knew he wanted to stay like that so his girls got all the fun. And I can't blame him. Walking on four legs again was like riding a bike. I just got back to it like nothing.

Now for the hard part... finding my Keyblades turn pony. Haven't seen them since the wedding so...yeah…

Taking a deep breath, I headed outside, looking for Justin, maybe till Oblivion and Oathkeeper are Keyblade again I can use something else in the meantime. Talking a walk through town was...peaceful. So much has happened so fast, Cript running this...script thing to slow it down for us is good. Wonder what I will have to worry about...and there goes my good mood…

I found Justin at Sweet Apple Acres, helping Applejack spell cast by the look of it.

“Casting any of the three healing spells is a must know for any Keyblade Wielder, it means the difference from dying quickly, and prolonging your own life.” Justin said, Applejack practicing the motions.

“Hey Justin.” I said, gaining his attention.

“Hey Eclipse, heard you had one heck of a wedding.” He replied, not looking at me, but acknowledging me.

“Yeah, and cause of a thing I can’t use Oathkeeper of Oblivion for a few days…”

“So you need a spare?”

“There’s spare Keyblades?” I ask, finding that kinda funny.

“Well, sorta.” He said, raising his hand and summoning a blue Keyblade, it looked kinda like the Kingdom Key, but blue and the tip had a star on it. “It’s called Starlight, it’s like a Training Keyblade, the Foretellers use them til the Wielders true Keyblade comes to them, and in some cases, the Starlight is their true Keyblade, only it will change in form a bit.”

“Oh...neat.” I said, taking the noods Keyblade. “Well, guess you’ll do til I can use Oathkeeper and Oblivion again...speaking of, you know where they are?” I asked.

“It they are ponies that do look like pony version of your Keyblades, I think I saw Pinkie Pie throwing them a party at Sugar Cube Corner, since they can eat food for now she’s having them try everything.”

“In that case I have a feeling they will be there for a while.”

“Yeah, no kidding. So, what are you gonna do? It is your Honeymoon period after all.”

CRAP! He’s right! “I’ll...uh...think of something.” I say, trotting back home. CRAP, CRAP, CRAP! Gotta do something nice for our Honeymoon...Think, think...what’s a nice world to go to… Is Radiant Garden still around here? No, best not. What other world is there… Talking animal friendly world...No, Daybreak is too easy, and if I run into Zeke, who for some reason I feel like I haven't talked to for longer that it has been, I might get caught up in other things…

Think, what world is out there that would make the perfect honeymoon spot? Some place with class, safe...enough, and will be a relaxing honeymoon/vacation...Wait...duh, this world! There’s a lot of other placed on Equestria that I haven’t seen, and I’m sure Luna would love to see how much things have changed.

Let’s see… Maybe… Yes. Yes! With some pep I trotted back home, and before I entered I instead of simply opening the doors, used my magic and burst them open. “Honeys, I’m home!” I yelled, not caring if the nearest pony that heard that was annoyed or not.

“Eclipse? You’re back soon.” Fluttershy said, trotting down the steps. “Something come up?”

“Yup. Our Honeymoon.”

Fluttershy’s eyes went wide. “Oh! You know a place we should go?”

“Yup! Trottingham!”

“...Trottingham?”

“Yeah. Twi and I took a vacation there with sunbutt years ago. It’s a beautiful place. Large open fields, beautiful nature, peaceful.”

“So total opposite of Ponyville, the peaceful part I mean.”

“Yup.”

“Hmm…” Fluttershy thought, pondering the thought. “Country air and some actual peace does sound nice, plus, I have an aunt up there who owns a small inn. We can stay there and...Do you think Wolf, MS, and Moon will mind watching the foals?”

“I don’t think so, if anything it will prepare them for what’s to come also.” I chuckled, Shy giving one as well.

“Well, can’t argue with that. So, when should we leave?”

“I think four days is more than enough time, and I’ll be here for them all.”

“So no sudden random adventure callings?”

“Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” As I said those words I could FEEL Pinkie know I just made that promise.

Shy seemed content with that, giving a nod and walking over and giving me a kiss. “It’s about time we take things slow for a change.”

“Yeah, slow. That sounds...relaxing.”

An Unknown Ghost.

View Online

I was in my station of Awakening. Everything was... abnormal. Something wasn’t right. I heard a noise, and turned around, seeing a guy in a man walk up to me from a DTD. He was dressed in a mix of Vanitas, Eraqus, and Terra outfits. Everything about him was...framilier. His walk, height, stance. “Who...are you?” I asked, finding his presence here bazaar.

He said nothing, but summoned Oblivion, and Oathkeeper quickly followed. As I summoned Starlight I felt sad that I didn’t have them, but soon...soon. We charged at each other, his fighting style kept ringing bells in my head but nothing connected. Damn it, who is he? I was at a disadvantage, I’m too used to dual wielding. As we battled I kept trying to get who this guy was. Damn it.

I began to get the feeling this guy was playing with me. Angered, I rushed him, knocking out Oathkeeper from his right hand and then Oblivion from his left. “Ha! Who’s the man, I’m the...stallion...same meaning!” I retort, seeing him unphased. I think, that Vanitas mask on makes it hard to tell.

He didn’t bother calling them back to him, rather, he ruched me. He began fighting me with hand to hand combat. While Royal Guard training and combat from my time back on earth taught me enough on how to deal with those larger than you, he was somehow adapting to all of it, blocking and countering my normal moves. I had enough, it was a chep move, but I used Shining’s shield spell and pinned him. “Okay who in the hell are you?!” I screamed, moving he spell so his head came out from it.

A laugh. That was his first noise. “Just a Nobody.”

That voice? “Zeke?”

“That’s Kexez!” He shouted. I looked up, and saw Oathkeeper and Oblivion mere millimeters from my face, and getting closer.

“Gah!” I yelped as I woke up. That was...all a dream? No...no it can’t have been a dream? Can it?

“You finally woke up.” I turned, seeing Luna walk in. “Heading home today. You exited?”

“Yeah, I just…”

“What?” She asked, getting and on the bed and sitting next to me. “Something wrong?”

“I had this...dream I think. There was this guy with Oathkeeper and Oblivion, and when I finally pinned him he said he was a Nobody, but his voice...it was Zeke. But he said his name was Kexez… Am I just...worried or…”

“Hmm…” Luna said, bearing that thoughtful look I love to see her have. Made her look so deep, intelligent, and kinda cute. “Well, I didn’t sense you were dreaming Eclipse.”

“So...it happened? Wait!? So...did Zeke…” I want to check. I have my family here but Zeke…”

“Go.” Luna said, making me look up. “I know you’re thinking it Eclipse. We’ll be fine heading home, besides, Equestria, and the world's need you, as well as the reflections. Zeke is only one man after all. Even with that whole world at his side, he is still just one person. As are you.” She said, booping me in the muzzle. “I’m sure all is fine, but just to be safe, you best head off and see for yourself.”

I smiled, giving Luna a muzzle boop before summoning Starlight. Damn, can’t wait for Oath and Oblivion to become Keyblades again. I opened a DTL and headed inside.

Walking in was easy, and once outside I was thankful that I was right outside the castle. As I was heading inside I felt odd, quickly turning around I saw this reflections Trixie a ways behind me heading into town. She wore a green blouse and blue skirt, green high heels and a small purse… Why does… I shook it off, and headed back inside. As I Expected I saw Zeke in his office, a pile of paperwork on both sides of his desk and his assistant Mr. Rich working away at his own pile of paperwork.. When Zeke looked up and saw me he smiled. “Hey, Eclipse! Long time no see. Where have you been?”

“Honeymoon. You?”

“Well, shits happened.” He said simply, tossing some papers onto his desk that were in his grip. “Rich, let’s take Ten.” Zeke said as Rich nodded, putting the papers down and stretching while Zeke and I got out and left.

“So, I miss anything.”

“... Well, how to phrase it…” He said. “Well, Huxley’s dead, so if Core.”

“Huxley...died?” I...I knew some of us would likely die in this...but...he seemed so...too stubborn to die. “How?”

“He killed Core, Core killed him.” Zeke said simply. “Of course...there’s other issues now.”

“Worse than Core?”

Zeke merely nodded. “A second Keyblade war is coming.”

I froze in place… A new war… “We...We can’t let that happen!”

“Well, our current enemies are making that difficult, besides, Luxu confirmed it, this was is happening, there’s no backing up on it.”

“Then...then what do we do?”

“We try and end it fast.” he said firmly. “If we take out the heads right when the fight starts, their army will fall fast, and loss of life on our side can be avoided or at least minimized.”

“That’s wise, but why not take them out now?”

“Their army is already large, and massive. Attacking them now is like starting the war early. Everything will be alright. It just takes patience and preparation.”

“Neither of which I’m admittedly good at.”

“Heh, true.” He chuckled. “So, what are you gonna do to get your world ready?”

“I...don’t know…”

“Well, aside from train, it’s best to gather allies. Reach out to other worlds and see which ones are willing to help.”

“You think that can work?”

“Look at Daybreak? It’s founded on worlds aiding one another and embracing each other. True there are...incidents, but mostly it’s a cultural thing that occurred from a miscommunication.”

“Sounds like earth.”

“It does...it does…”

I arrived back home with a new goal in mind. Equis as a world needs to be ready, in one way or another. Wolf and I both agreed we need not only the aid of all the races on this world, but from others. So, Wolf and I are going to tackle other worlds for help while Luna, Celestia, and Fluttershy, oddly enough, take on the other nations of Equestria. The hardest they admit will likely be the Minotaurs. They are run by guilds controlling different things, but they agreed that if we gain the aid of the Bankers guild, the rest will fall into place rather quickly.

I hated having to leave them so soon after our Honeymoon, but this...this has to be done, Oath and Oblivion are tagging along, their time as ponies is almost up and hey want to be with me when that happens. With some sad, yet hope filled goodbyes, Wolf and I left, Oath and Oblivion behind us as we entered a DTL, to an unknown world. For now. Who knows what it might be when we actually arrive.

Twilight Town.

View Online

Wolf, Oath, Oblivion and I all exited the DTL...to Twilight Town? “Why are we here?” Wolf asked.

“Not sure.” I replied. “You two feel anything?” I asked Oath and Oblivion.

“Hmm… it's all fuzzy in these pony forms. What about you brother?” Oath said.

“I got somethin. It's darkness, that's clear but… i can't tell where it is.” Oblivion replied.

“Well, guess we'll just have to search for it.” I said. We were in the marketplace. The one with that trolly. As we walked we all quickly noticed there was no one around. Not a single shop open, no one person walking. It was...creepy. Walking up that one high hill towards the train station, there was still no one. There was one shop open but there wasn’t anyone inside. As we were walking up the road to the train station I made everyone stop. “You...hear that?”

“Yeah.” Wolf agreed. “Like...the sound of a sudden magic surge.”

“I felt that clearly.” Oath spoke up.

I summoned Starlight while Wolf summoned- “Hey! How come you can summon Oath and Oblivion still?”

Wolf shrugged. “Not sharing a heart so…”

“I call bull.”

THUD.

All of our attention was taken to the top of the road. There, a large, purple and green colored Darkside stepped into view. Inside his normal heart shaped hole in its chest, was… a person, legs and arms linked to it by dark tendrils. “Oh shit.” Oblivion said as it waved it’s hand, and a strong blow of wind blasted them back, Wolf and I staying stationary by thrusting our weapons into the ground. Once it was done wolf ran across the walls, gaining speed and jumping to attack it’s head. It tried to sweep him, but he quickly switched to lamia form and wrapped his lower half around its arm and jabbed his Oath and Oblivion into it’s hand before slithering up to it’s head.

I was spellcasting from down here, Thunder spells seeming to be the most effective. I noticed the person in it’s chest twitch, raising their head like they where sleeping before they ripped themselves free from the darkside, and crashing some feet behind me. “Yo, you the bad guy?” They didn’t reply, rather they turned fast, shooting a ball of darkness at me that I managed to deflect with Starlight. “Guess that’s a yes.”

While I began dealing with this screw over, I managed to glimpse at Wolf, who was already whacking this Darkside upside it’s head. The things arms too thick to try and take him off his head. “Damn it, just fall already you glorified recolor!” Wolf shouted.

I focused back onto this guy. He held out a hand, a Soul Eater sword appearing as he took a fighting stance. We charged, he taking the offensive as he kept side stepping my attacks, trying to strike at me from the side as I ducked below his swings. Being a knee high pony has advantages. We were in this dance for a time before that Darkside finally fell, and Wolf jumped, plunging towards him...only to be Reflect spell’s back against a wall. I winced. “You okay?!” I asked, keeping my dodging steady.

“Yeah, just got reflected into a brick wall!” Wolf called back sarcastically. “Just peachy.” He growled, dashing towards the unknown guy.

We both were attacking, but his speed managed to keep up with the both of us. “Son of a bitch, who trained this guy?!”

“I don't fucking know, Ghandi?” Wolf asked, just throwing that out there for some reason.

We both came down on him and he blade locked us both. Darkness swirled on the ground before pillars of dark shot up from underneath us both, tossing us both aside as he bolted...towards Oath and Oblivion. “Oh crap, get out of here guys!” I shouted at them.

“Damn it!” Wolf growled, trying to rush after him before they got to Oblivion and Oath.

I charged at him, I can’t lose them! As I got closer I saw he has them cornered. Their spells did nothing to stop him, and they ended up against a wall, Oath taking Oblivion’s hoof while Oblivion grabbed her in for a hug. Everything went white. I almost toppled over to stop. They were...gone. “Wait, what?” Just then, the sky turned dark grey...before a blue light began to shinedown… Kingdom Hearts was above us. “What the actual fuck?”

“Excuse me, but no.” Wolf frowned. “Just...I call bull on that appearing here right now.”

“Same.” I replied, seeing Oathkeeper and Oblivion, their pony forms glowing into pure light, and pure dark as they...merged. Slowly, it formed into a rather...familiar shape.

The...X-blade? I think, then dropped, it’s tip slicing rather deep into the stone ground in front of me. “... What...The Fuck?”

“Concern intensifies.” Wolf said, actually concerned by Oath and Oblivion doing...that.

”HOLY EVER LOVING FATHER OF US!” Oblivion shouted in surprise.

”This is...different. I feel...so strong. Like I can hack away any evils.” Oathkeeper added.

Slowly, I grabbed them...it, in my magic and lifted them...it, out. It was about as big as Zeke’s… as the X-blade...what...what do I even call this? “Um… Thanks?” I said, looking up as the heart shaped moon as it’s grey clouds covered it, then the clouds faded, and they sky became normal again.

“So...you two are now the new X…” Wolf said slowly, before taking a deep breath. “How!?” He asked, completely flabbergasted at these turn of events.

”X is still around and alive… I think we just...evolved? Or...fused? I’m not sure, Kingdom Hearts did this, not us!”

“We’ll ask questions later.” I spoke up, ready to fight this guy again. “Let’s kill this guy first then try and figure out what the hell just happened.”

The man raised his blade again. I swung with a lot of force… Breaking his sword, slicing him in two...and destroying the buildings behind him… a shockwave of wind and power at that swing’s arch. “...IS THAT WHAT ZEKE HOLDS BACK?!”

“...” Wolf blinked. “I want one…” Wolf complained.

“... Okay...so they’re gone, but where is everyone else? This town’s just...empty.” I said, trying to focus on something else other than this OP weapon that, if it’s even a quarter of what Zeke’s can do… I shuddered.

“No idea, but where can I get something that overpowered?” Wolf asked.

“... Well, when we find and meet back up with Zeke we can ask him, or maybe…” I thought, motioning for Wolf to follow as we headed to the train station. Once there, we ran inside and saw the magic train to Yen Sid’s was docked. “We can ask the closest wise man.”

“If Old Man Disney is even there.” Wolf said. “If everyone here is gone...well what's to keep whatever happened here from going to his place?”

“Powerful magic and remember, he is a Keyblade master.” I reminded.

We hopped on the train, and the ride was nice, the magical scene change from sunset to stars was impressive. The tower was as strange and creepy as the games made it out to be. The walk up was oddly uneventful, and it made Wolf and I keep our guard up. Once at the top floor, we gave a quick bow to the old master before I spoke. “Master Yen Sid, why is Twilight Town empty?”

“Genocide.” He answered, sending a chill into the air and down our backs. “That creature you killed was a creation of Kexez, made to invade and swallow the hearts of a world's inhabitants.” Yen Sid said.

“Swallow… wait! Does that mean!?”

“No. It swallows them and drags them into the realm of dark. You killed no one, Eclipse.” I exhaled a sigh of pure relive. “Now then, what is it you wish to speak to me about?” Hesitantly, I summoned up my...X-blade, and went slack jawed at Yen Sid’s expression. He stood, touching the weapon as he kept that surprised expression. “This… has never happened before. Hm. I need to consult another. Please, wait here.” He said, walking into that spare room and closed the door behind him.

“Who do you think he is talking to?” Wolf asked.

“Not sure” I replied. “Whoever it it, must be as knowledgeable as him, right?”

“A second X-blade? ANd it was crafted from the Oblivion and Oathkeeper Keyblades you Said?”

“Yes. It’s nothing I’ve ever seen before. I was hoping you had an answer to this unforeseen event?”

“...When Father created the X-blade, and it’s lesser counterparts, it was because life feared the darkness...perhaps there is a new, greater threat.”

“...Kexez.”

“Maybe. QUestion is though, will this be the only new X-blade to appear?”

“I cannot say. We know the old X-blade can be forged, or select a welder with a pure balanced heart. This one in nature and function only time will tell.”

“Might I suggest Zeke’s Absent Silhouette? It has changed given recent events regarding his body and perhaps it will change again with this new predicament?”

“Who is to say? But, it’s abilities and powers might give forth answers. Thank you, Eve.”

“Anything for you my love. Maybe when this whole mess is over with, we can finally be together in the bliss of the afterlife if fate grants my kin and I such kindness.”

“Yes… It would be nice, to finally rest my old bones.”

Yen Sid returned and explained that Kexez must be the cause for this new X-blade to have been formed.

“So you're telling me Kexez did such a big universal fuck up that the universe literally had to make a new X-blade?” Wolf asked, trying to wrap his head around this.

“That is a rather blunt term for it, but yes. Kexez is becoming such a threat that Kingdom Hearts saw it fit to craft a second X-blade for this new war.” Yen said agreed. “Whether this will be the only one of a possible new generation of X-blades, I can not say.”

“Yeah, that’s what we want to hear…” Wolf frowned. “So, the million dollar question is, how long?” Wolf asked bluntly, knowing if this happened all of a sudden then their time frame shortened by a ton.

“The light and dark have yet to fully cross paths for this war to transpire. It’s battle ground has yet to be selected as well. The only sure answers we can collect, might come from Zeke’s abnormal Absent Silhouette.”

“Damn, we’ve only been gone for a little while and literally everything is falling apart.” Wolf frowned.

“Looks like we at least know where we are going next.” I spoke up. “Where is his Absent Silhouette?”

“Equestria, like none you have seen before. A land torn a blaze by battle and soaking in the darkness of void and heartless. The shared grave of Zeke’s true form, and Core’s dark powers.” He said, a DTL opening up behind us. “Fight this Absent Silhouette, and earn it’s information.”

“Sounds simple enough.” Wolf said. “How tough is he?”

“That you will have to see for yourselves.” Yen SId explained.

“Well we better get going then.” Wolf said.

“Yeah. Let’s get going.” I agreed as we headed into the DTL.

This place looked like it was after the end of the world.

“Well…” Wolf blinked. “This...jesus christ.”

“So, this is it?” I said, Wolf turning around. There, floating a few feet in the air was an Absent SIlhouette. It’s mark a heart with an image of the X-blade inside it. “Well, think two against one will help the odds?”

“Most likely.” Wolf said honestly, cracking his knuckles ready for the fight. “Lets see how tough Zeke actually is.”

We touched the thing, and where surrounded by a white light. When it faded, we were on a Station of awakening… Zeke’s. Here, there where… people. Trixie, Zeke, Unum...current/past X-blade wielders. “What do we… oh…” I said, turning and seeing...myself. “Well...that’s interesting.”

“That is indeed interesting.” Wolf said honestly, not expecting me to be here.

“So...how does this work then? Do we have to fight each and beat them or… what?”

“I’m half expecting this to be a damned boss rush.” Wolf said, summoning his keyblades as he looked around for their opponent.

I summoned mine, my new X-blade, and a Keyhole appeared over all of them. “Oh, so… let’s see if I can beat myself?” I said, raising it to the Keyhole. It shot out a light that clicked when it made contact with the Keyhole as a blue DT...something appeared in front of my image. We walked in, and we where now at My station of Awakening. My image floated down to meet us from some light above, before summoning Oathkeeper and Oblivion, spinning them in it’s magic before clashing them together, the bright spark fusing them into my X-blade. “Okay… this will be interesting.”

“I’d make a Roxas joke here with how he did that...but that was kind of cool.” Wolf said honestly, preparing himself to fight.

The other me charged, swiping at us as Wolf and I jumped to dodge. The other me then began spell casting at a rapid pace. Oathkeeper… Fast fired Blizzard, thunder and fire spells came at us like gun fire before it stopped and was replaced by reflect raides, each time it threw it’s weapon he ran to knocked us into their line of fire. “Is this how I fight?!” I shouted, this all feeling a bit new to me.
“Maybe if you decided to use all of your imagination and just stopped giving a damn about your opponents.” Wolf shouted back, just as surprised by the amount of shit the other me was capable of.

We managed to gain enough footing to deliver an attack, the other me recovering mid air before changing his X-blade into a massive glider, kind of like Ventus’s, and began ramming it into us. Blocking helped but pushed us back.

Wolf growled. “Zothunder!” Wolf shouted, raising his keyblades up as the area around us started to spark as a massive amount of lightning just shot out towards my other self.

It hit, the glider disbanding as it rolled back to stance, and then glowed, his clothing turning purple as he gained...Twilight’s Keyblade. He charged at us, Teleporting with each step and roll as he cast massive amounts of Thunder spells.

“Of course this fucker can just up and swap tactics on a whim.” Wolf growled, dodging the thunder spells the best he could as he threw out a Reflect Raid to try and stop the Thunder spells from being spammed like a bitch.

I charged, trying to swipe at him from behind, only for him to teleport before I made contact, and swipe at me, sending me flying into Wolf. I got up and helped him up before another Thunder was cast at us. I managed to hit him with a Blizzard, he immediately glowed again, this time his outfit was… blue with a rainbow line across his sides… AND HE HAS WINGS?!?! Rainbow… wait… I can do that with her too?! “Damn I gotta learn this crap!” I said, finding this all too cool.

“Yeah yeah we’ll figure that out later, right now we have to clip this bastards wings.” Wolf said, having a bad feeling about those wings.

He was right to hate them. The other me was flying circles around us like childsplay. Even spinning for a while to make small tornadoes that staggered or picked us up and let him do some fly by hits. We managed to land a hit on him with both our Keyblades in a combined Reflect raid. He glowed again, dropping to the floor as his outfit was now white and blue… Rarity. He slid around like on skates, each swing we tried to land he dodged with agility I do not possess. “I always figured Rarity was flexible.” I laughed.

“Apparently.” Wolf chuckled. “But you can figure that out back at home fully.”

“If she’s up for joining.” I added, slamming my X-blade into the ground, a wave of energy exploding outward, and knocking the other me off their feet.

Wolf was quick to act as he leaped over and swung swiftly to hit the other me while they were off balance.

That made them glow again, their attire now...pink...oh god no… “I hate you so much right now Wolf.” I growled as the other me immediately spammed Baloonga’s non stop.

“Fuck!” He jumped back quickly. “God damn it to hell, so many damned balloons.” Wolf growled.

We blocked what we could, but there were way too many. When it finally ended we were facing the other me… aiming Pinkie’s party cannon at us...

“Well that’s just not fair at all.” Wolf frowned. “Reflectga!” He shouted, raising up a shield before the thing went off in a panic.

He fired, rather than confetti it was a ray of spiraling light and darkness. The reflecta saving us, and it’s knockback/counter hitting the other me in the process. He glowed, his vest changing to orange as he jumped back...and shook the whole ground when he landed… Applejack...

“Kicks are gonna hurt like a bitch I just know it.” Wolf said, hoping any kicks weren’t aimed a bit too south. “So, any bright ideas how to beat this one?”

“Uh… Magic, when in training Aj was really defenceless against it!” I said, the two of us casting spells at the other me, they managing to dodge by jumping...pillars of earth sprouting up to catch them as they were about to ram us… “Oh fuck a duck…”

We were tackled, and I felt like some ribs were cracked as he tackled us and send us sliding to the edge of the arena. “Did you catch that Semi’s plates? I’m suing…” I said in a daze.

“Ow…” Wolf groaned. “That’s the last time I play football…”

I shook my head, casting a quick cure on the both of us and helped wolf up. Damn it, how to… Maybe. “Wolf, when I give the word, cast Megaflare at me.”

“Sure, why not.” Wolf said with maybe a little too much enthusiasm. “Whenever your ready.”

I charged at the other me, the two of us locking blades, but in that form he was clearly stronger. Physically. “Now!” I said, casting reflect as Wolf shot out Megaflare.

It hit the target. There was another glow, and his vest was now yellow and pink. Fluttershy. Wonder what this will bring?

Wolf didn’t want to figure out what Fluttershy mode could do as he went immediately on the attack.

His attack...phased through the other me. They jumped away, each attack, magic or just was ineffective. They didn’t attack either...what is this?

“Okay, physical attacks don’t work, and magic attacks don’t worK…” Wolf frowned. “Okay...I call hax.” Wolf frowned, trying to figure out what could hurt this thing.

“Well, Shy in combat didn’t fight...she healed. What if that form heals as fast as it takes damage?” I thought out loud.

“Maybe?” He wondered. “Hmm…” Wolf hummed, casting cure on the other me wondering if it hurt them instead of healed them.

It did nothing. I can't sleep on it, and it knocked them out. Wolf and I then proceeded to pound on them.

“Doesn’t this seem a little...wrong to you?” Wolf asked nervously.

“How so?” I asked.

“I know this is another you but...they’re in a Fluttershy form...and we just knocked her out and started beating the shit out of her.” Wolf said honestly.

“...Best we not think about it.” I said, their form changing again. Now their vest was blue...and our mane was like the night sky… “Luna?”

“Well isn’t that just splendid…” Wolf frowned, swinging at them before they could act.

The other me jumped back, large black wings emerging from his back as he had his Keyblade and Luna’s in a magic aura...and a Scythe floating in it’s own aura around him. “...Well fuck.”

“Cause of course they need a goddamn Scythe.” Wolf groaned, not liking this at all. “Well...either way…” He said, throwing a Reflect Raid towards the other me.

The Scythe reflected each raid that came at it, the other me taking us both with his...dual wielding. “I knew I was a multitasker...but this is new for me.” I said aloud.

“All of this is new to us.” Wolf said honestly. “Jeez...this is a lot tougher than I originally thought.” Wolf said. “Aeroga!” He shouted, a blast of bladed wings rushing towards the other me.

The other me tanks the the attack, and cast one of his own that gave off a dark aura.

“Wonderful…” Wolf muttered while trying to dodge the dark attack. “Any idea’s?”

“Uh, don’t get hit?” I threw out, dodging another swing of Luna’s Keyblade.

“No shit Sherlock.” Wolf rolled his eyes. “Got any more of that sagely wisdom?”

“No, but I got a question. As a Lamia, how much of your lower body is pure muscle?” I said with a grin.

Wolf nodded and rushed over, using his lower half to bind the other me. With enough time, I delivered a strong hammer slam onto him. Finally his forms seem to have ended as he slipped out of Wolf’s grasp. He then changed his form… my old human body… He grabbed his X-blade with both hands, a sliver of light trailing down it as he split it in half. “Dual wielding one X-blade...that’s a thing.”

“Cause why not.” Wolf said, honestly. “Wonder if this is the last one or if there’s still ten more.”

“Won’t know...hang on. Scan!” I activated my scan ability five bars gone of… “Five out of thirty hp bars gone… Damn I’m a tank.”

“Wait, 30? What the fuck man!” Wolf said in shock. “No wonder why this has been taking forever...and why the bastard has so many forms.”

“Cause… video game logic.” I threw out.

“Cause life is just a video game in our world.” Wolf rolled his eyes.

The other me then began to spam an attack I’ve never seen before. He began like it was a Blitz but mid swing down he began spinning, swinging his X-blade around before doing a backflip, and ended on an area of effect slam attack. “That looks neat.” I said, backing away from another spin part of the attack.

“Yeah, looks neat but it’s a pain to dodge and block.” Wolf frowned. “Blizzaga!” He shouted, firing bolts of ice at my spinning double.

The double’s attack deflected the spell, disbanding it before landing his area of effect attack, which, started up a blizzard all around us. SHIT THAT'S COLD!!! “So that’s what it d-d-does…” I stuttered from the freezing temperature.

“W-w-well f-f-f-fuck you t-t-to then!” Wolf said angrily, hating the cold here.

The other me jumped out from the cold misty air, ice crawling up his legs, his mane became almost ethereal, like Luna’s, and his eyes were like a corpses. “Oh...s-s-s-shit!” I yelped, managing to dodge.

“Necromancer? The fuck!” Wolf yelped.

“F-frostamancy actually!” I jumped out of the way. “B-b-b-back in Celestia’s school, we were tested for what element of nature we are closest too in terms of magic. T-twilight was an Electromancer, Electricity. Rare, and strong.” I dodged the other me’s wave of ice spikes. “I was Frost. Ice. I am good with them, O-o-only one issue!” I swing my X-blade, casting Megaflare. “I FUCKING HATE THE COLD!”

“Well glad you can cast Megaflare.” Wolf said while also casting Megaflare to take down the other me.

The flames knocked the ice out of the air, and the other me jumped away, no longer an ice pony before pulling out a Wayfinder. “D-links now? Well that will be new.”

“Oh fuck no!” Wolf barked as he threw a reflect raid to stop whatever the bastard was going to do.

The other me… grabbed onto Wolf’s blade in his mouth, and threw his reflect raid back at him. “I WANNA LEARN THAT!” I shouted, amazed that I can, apparently, do that! His Wayfinder glowed, and then began to grow...taller? Wings blew out of his back like something out of a horror movie, his coat turning darker in tone, and he summoned Luna’s Keyblade. “Okay...Your wife then?” I asked Wolf.

“The fuck is that?” Wolf asked as he disbanded his keyblade and then resummoned it to stop the reflect raid counter attack. “Cause D-links aren’t supposed to do that right?”

“Dunno.” I said, the other me flying into the air, crashing down, creating a powerful area of effect hit that knocked Wolf and I over. He then jumped into the air, tossing his Keyblades in different directions before they floating mid air, and something began dragging us between them as orbs of light and darkness shot at each other. “SHIT! STOLE THAT FROM RIKU’S LIMIT!!” I yelped, thrusting my Keyblade into the ground to stop myself from being pulled in.

Wolf stabbed his keyblade into the ground to stop himself. “Thundaga!” He shouted, firing a bolt of electricity to see if it’ll hurt him unlike what normally happens with limits like this.

Thankfully, logic was on our side, and the spell electricuted the other me, his D-link disbanding. He grabbed his Wayfinder again, and it glowed. This time though, while there was no change, he did gain a familiar shield. “Crap, it’s with Ben!” I said, a Dusk appearing from nowhere and wrapping around me like a snake. “And karma…”

Wolf slithered over and stabbed the Dusk, making sure to not stab me in the process. “I thought we were fighting the holder of the X-blade, not involving this kind of crap.” He said, still expecting a bunch of X-blade wielders if D-link is involved, but honestly surprised Ben was in that selection.

The other me then pulled out Lunatic, and began slamming it for Area of Effect attacks. Wolf and I dodged, just barely. “Tiny ass arena!” I yelled.

“Not like Siax’s arena was any bigger.” Wolf pointed out, doing his best to dodge the rage fueled attacks. “But I doubt this is as strong as Ben would be with the thing all things considered.”

I noded, the there me taking out Lindworm...and stuck Lunatic on top of it, the two FUSED. He then swung it around, showing Lunatic’s Area of effect attack now worked in the air. “Can Ben even do that?”

“Wouldn’t be surprised given the last time we met him…” Wolf blinked. “Oh damn when did we last see Ben?” Wolf asked honestly.

“Uhh...Next time! Crossover with Ben!” I shouted, trying to break the fourth wall to ease some worry. Didn’t help that much… I ducked, that air area of effect passing just above my lowered body. “Yipe!”

“Crap…” Wolf muttered. “Thundaga!” He shouted, casting another thunder spell to hurt him if we couldn’t get close.

The spell landed, his D-link ended as he backflipped back. We clashed X-blades. “I am so looking forward to pushing this all out when I’m this strong.” I muttered, gaining a step forward. I reacted fast, activating a Zentenzucan before slicing through the other me. It vanished in a puff of light, and two small chests appeared on the ground. “...Wait, we won? Didn’t see that one coming.”

“There has to be more…” Wolf said, not buying that that was it as he used Oblivion to poke one of the chests, glaring at it as if daring it to be a fucking mimic.

I lowered his Keyblade, shrugging as I tapped it. It oppened up, and my Assistant flashed.

Obtained
999,999,999,999,999 munny
999,999,999,999,999 Equestrian Bits
Ultima Weapon Keyblade
999 of ALL Synthesis materials
Learned
Victory Pose
Meteor Rain
Explosion
Time Splicer
Ghost Drive

“Holy ever loving fuck I’m loaded…” I muttered, trying to count all those nines...

“What are we going to do with literally all that money?” Wolf said, completely flabbergasted at this. “But...we learned a bunch of things...and got an ass ton of synthesis items.”

“Buy out all the canterlot snobs and make them move out of canterlot?” I offered. “Starting with prince douchebag Blueblood… hehehe” I began laughing.

“That sounds good.” Wolf nodded. “But we have all those skills and Synthesis items...and we also got Ultima weapon...which one though.” Wolf questioned as he checked which out of the half a dozen ultima weapons they got.

I took out the Keychain and tossed it to Wolf. He equipped it, and it was the Kingdom hearts one version.

“Okay then.” He said honestly. “That’s good...so what’s in the other chest?”

“You open it. Seems fair.”

“Okay.” Wolf said while opening the chest in question. “What is in the second chest…”

He tapped it, and it flipped open, his Assistant flashing.

Obtained
99 Magic Boosts
99 Defence boosts
99 Strength boosts
X-blade Keyblade Keychain
Learned
Harmony Form
Discord Form
Fireworks
Dream Catcher
Transcendence
Dark Raid.

“What’s Dark Raid and Dream Catcher? I know Transcendence is a high level birth by sleep move but… those other two… Also a harmony and DIscord form? Sound interesting.”

“Yes it does.” Wolf said. “I do wonder what these new things do. And I suppose the X blade is for me.” Wolf said while grabbing the Keychain. “Huh, wonder how it works?”

“Let me see.” I said, grabbing it in my magic and looking it over. “Maybe it’s like a way-” Before I finished, a black portal opened under me. “Oh fu-” I yelped, falling it.

Wolf was left inside the station… “He took the X-blade Keychain… Damn it!”

Back To The Past! Part XXVIIXV

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I woke up in a forest, this clearly isn't the Everfree back home. This place had MUCH stronger magic within it. Even the air was soaked in magic. I looked around, my X still in hand before looking down. “Naga, well I need to learn how to fight like this anyways.” I commented to myself before calling out. “Wolf! Cript! Anyone there!?”

“No need to shout.” Cript said, walking up towards me. “Like this forest? I grew up in these woods.”

“Really?” I asked as I took a good look around. “It is kinda nice, though it feels like I am breathing magic instead of air.”

“Yeah.” He said, looking up. “I grew up in a temple, up the ways from here. This forrest was the last pure source of magic on this, my world. The monks that raised me, they were the last of this world's magic wielders. My mom dropped me off here when I was two, and that was the last time I ever saw her.”

“I’m… Sorry. I really am. But… Why am I here dad?” I asked him “Also, any idea what this is about?” I asked, showing him what has become of Oath and Oblivion.

“A bit of my doing.” He said. “I convinced Kingdom Hearts that it was time for stronger fighters. So, he forged your X-blade. Kexez created monsters only a X-blade can harm, and along with the Ventral Family clones, and the Embodiments, this Keyblade war will be way worse than the last.”

“Shit.” I said “So, to my first question, why am I here?”

“First off, we tackle one of your issues.” He said, and started moving along the path. I followed. “You were born in a world without magic, and reborn as a unicorn. That sudden change did not fully agree with your aura. As such, explains your weak magic compared to Twilight.”

“Really? You would think that it would be fine, considering I spent most of my life there, being re-raised as a unicorn.” I said, honestly surprised.

“Yes, normally...if you died before hand.” Cript started. “Death cleans the soul, washing away the past energies and thought, and rebirth infuses the clean soul with it’s new environments energies. You were reborn, before dying. Your soul was not ready for the new energies, and adapted slowly.”

“So… what’s going to happen?”

We arrived at a large gated temple...the massive walls long since fallen to near rubble and the building itself burned with ashes and charred wood laid about. “Is this…” I asked, letting the question hang.

“Yup. Where I grew up.” Cript said, still moving.

I followed behind, glad that I have gotten used to moving as Naga as we entered the temple ruins. Cript led me to a room where several chairs made from roots of a large, burned tree rested behind it. The trees roots having grown the important looking seats. “This is where my masters Medatated. See that tree?” I laid eyes on the long since burned tree, scorched deep into it’s bark. “That was the first tree to grow in this forest, and gave all the rest of this place it’s magic.”

“What happened?” I asked, dreading the answer.

“Nexus…” Cript said. “My mom was a member, a high ranking fighter. She conducted every order without failure… so my dad chose her to birth me… their perfect weapon. I’m not this strong because I was destined to be Eclipse, I was born to be this strong, and only ever get stronger. A fellow student here, a kid, Andy… my best friend… We both left for a year long travel. When I returned, he turned. Corrupted… my teachers slain, home in flames, and his hands covered in the fire and blood. Nexus corrupted him, made him a twisted puppet.”

“A cowardly move on your mother’s side.” I said, not even hiding my disgust for someone like that.

Cript was suddenly holding my neck, a handgun almost touching my eye. “My Mom left me here to hide me. She died, protecting me. My own father killed her, and shared with me that memory!” He tightened his grip. “You think Kexez, Psychopaths, the Embodiments are bad… Vincent, my old man literally eats people like them, just to gain whatever powers they might have for himself.” He let go, letting me breath and putting the gun away.

After a few breaths I look Cript dead in the eyes. “If there is one thing I learn since becoming open to the universe, is no one is eternal. All Tyrants, and heros as well, are but a bullet away from becoming but a memory. I’m sorry about your mom… I shouldn't have assumed.”

“My mom defied all she knew, because she knew what he had planned for me was the end of everything. Why do you think Zeke and I look alike? You think his family just happened to gain Psychopath blood in them? His family was created to breed his worlds worst, til he was born. Another me, another weapon. Vincent even fathered him. Yes that makes us brothers in a way. So are the rest of my ‘reflections.’”

“So you adopted your brother?” I said with a small smile, trying to defuse the situation.

“He hasn't accepted.” Cript said. “Like me, he wants to take it on without help.” Cript said, taking a seat on one of the charred seats, and taking a breath. “When your Keyblade war is going on, I and a few selected members will be attacking Vincents personal realm. He dies there.”
I closed my eyes and took a breath. “Rursus ieiunium, verum volant, et cor vestrum erit guiding clavem tuam.” I said, not sure why or what I said.

“Heh, thanks.” Cript said. He stood up, and walked over to the burned tree. He pulled out a pocket knife, and began cutting into it. At some point, a faint light began to glow from it, and once it was bright enough to cast a shadow, Cript backed up. “There.” He said, taking a breath.

“So, what do I need to do?’ I asked, slithering up to him.

“That, is Origen magic. Older than most realms. Take it.” He said, moving to the side.

I went up to it and reached for it, hesitating. “Are you sure? It… it feels important I guess is a way to explain it.”

“It is, it’s part of why this temple was built. One of many guarded treasures…” Cript sighed. “But the past is past. The forest will live on without it. It’s magic will be weaker, but still very much present.”

“In you say so.” I said before taking a breath and reaching in.

The second I touched it, it felt like my whole body surged with power. I felt energy that could power whole worlds pulsate inside me. When the light faded I was twitching a bit, the last of the old magic settling within me.

“Feels amazing huh?” Cript asked.

“Yeah… and that’s what scares me.” I said, saying the last bit to myself. It feels like everything is finally right in my body, but the power it holds...

“Try levitating this.” Cript said, an apple appearing in his hand.

I started up my horn, and… the spell felt like nothing to cast. I worked years to get it right, even more to to use it in combat with Oath and Oblivion and now it feels like breathing. “It’s… so easy now.”

“Twilight will be jealous.” Cript laughed. He then lead me back outside, and we stopped outside what looked like a cellar door, and a ways behind where six graves, and balls of light over them.

“Come to pay respects?” I asked my father, still trying to get used to the feeling in me.

“Those are the graves of my masters, and the youngest student that was still here when Andy attacked. Think of those like Absent Silhouettes but… more lively.”

“... Joy. And I’ll be alone this time.” I said

“Who said you were fighting them?” Cript said, opening the cellar. Down a stone flight of stairs we entered a room with a large round door. Cript placed a hand on it, blue energy filling it’s designs as it rolled open. Inside was… scrolls...books...I can’t see the back...or the ceiling… Keeping Twi away from this place.

“Let us both agree to save this place from ANY reflection of Twilight.” I said dead serious.

“Oh I know.” Cript said, leading me inside. He sat me at a desk and then placed three books and two scrolls in front of me.

“Time for homework.” I chuckled, knowing that Cript knows I’m taking this seriously. I opened the books and… and I have no idea what these magic structures are or mean. “Translation please?”

Cript smirked. “Question, what is magic?”

“Beyond the whole Force spiel, it is enacting your will upon the world through interacting with the natural energies in certain ways along with your own internal energy.” I said. “And let me guess, only partly right?”

“Eh.” Cript said. “Magic, is energy, like anything else. Most magic has a will of it’s own, so taming it to use it can vary from life form to life form. On your world, magic is very tame, and it is easy to gather a lot of it. When magic is more wild and has more of a will of it’s own, you have to have a stronger will.”

I nodded. Made sense. After all, it Explains why some magic is more intune with certain people. “Makes sense.”

“The art of magic I was taught it called Will Magic, also known as Kin Magic. By either being stronger or getting along with your inner magic or the magic around you, you can collect near unlimited amounts of magic.” He explained. “Now then, there are three types of people who use magic. Those who generate magic within them, like I do, and those who gather it from around them. The third can do both. Twilight is this type, which is why she has always had a much easier time with advanced spells unlike others.”

“And I take it before now I gathered it from around me instead of inside me?” I asked. “Cause I just went on instinct most of the time.”

“Before you only gathered it from around you. Now, you also generate it from within. Now, you must learn to find how much you can pull from around and within you.”

“Well then, time to study… wow… Twilight affected me more than I thought.” I chuckled before looking back down, trying to make sense of the formulas.

Cript chuckled. “Try reading them, by having magic read it to you.” Cript suggested.

I thought about that for a moment before closing my eyes, letting my senses drift all around me, as well as now inside of me, before gently guiding it to the page in front of me… not realizing just how much magic was being drawn. I heard the sound of a cold wind blowing gently around me before I opened my eyes, looking down at the pages

The symbols gone, replaced with words I understood, clearly.

The Akaritive Spell
This spell revitalizes your physical form by taking that health from your opponent.

“That’s a morbid one.” I spoke, not noticing the hints of frost escaping my mouth before I kept reading.

This spell was developed by Ma Kitoru, in the year 4,000 bc. It was made to drain the enemy force when they were taking out your own forces in the battlefield, evening if not turning the tides of the battle. It’s creator ended up dying from his own spell when an enemy spy with a fatal illness, gave the illness to him then took his health, ending his life swiftly and painfully.
It has been marked as a Curse, and therefore Dark Magic.

“Dark magic?” I glance up at Cript. “Why do you want me to learn Dark magic?” I asked, finally noticing just how cold it has gotten, frost covering my arms, but not feeling cold.

“I don’t. I wanted you to learn to read the texts of magic. You just picked up the dark magic book first.”

“Oh.”I said sheepishly. “But why is it so cold? Is it because of my tunment to Frost?”

“Yes. Now that you are closer to magic than ever, you will have to learn to keep tabs on your linked elemental magic. Otherwise it will spire wildly.”

I looked over myself. “I can see that.” I said, closing my eyes and gently asking the magic to be done as the frost melted off me and the temperature returned to normal. “Gonna need to practice that to not freeze everything around me.”

“Try not to give your girls a scare too. It can manifest...during that stuff, and last thing you want is to freeze your own-” I cut in, stopping him from continuing that sentence.

“Yup, and knowing them they will find a way to make it kinky.” I said with a chuckle. “Well, now I’m starting to catch up to the others, maybe I won't be totally destroyed like normal when the war comes.”

“Okay then. Now that this is taken care of, next is the real hard stuff.”

“Aaannnd now I’m worried.” I said, the small smile not leaving my face.

“This is going to be difficult Eclipse, for this first test, you will not have any powers, you will be in your original human form, and you will have no one.”

“Not even Oath and Oblivion?” I asked. He shook his head. “Damn. Well, better get it started. As much as Lulu, Shy and Dash will understand, I still want to see them before the next huge crisis.”

Cript nodded, and snapped his fingers.

I woke up in a dark, really cold room. I knew immediately I was human, my old body, and I was trapped. I stood up, letting myself get used to two legs before I started to explore the room, getting my bearings.

It was not big at all, in fact this room is down right tiny. Made from stone clearly and from what I could feel...had no doors or windows. Well fuck. I sighed before trying to figure out what I need to do here. As I pondered my thoughts I could make out faint sounds. Thuds, clanks, and a wham, like hitting skin. Great, horror movie world.

The wall across from me was then bashed open, startling me as I saw a blond haired man standing there. He wore a red vest, black shirt and pants, blue eyes, and looked...please. “So, you are this Colin Ventral.” He stated.

My eyes narrowed. “Who are you and how do you know my name?”

“I am Adam, new Devil/king of hell. I know everybody, whether they come to my Asylum or not.” He stated.

“....Okay then. I’ll take your word for it. So, Two last questions if you would answer them. One, where am I and what happens now?” I said, thankfully finally learned to take things with a stride.

“This is my Asylum. Cript asked me to...oversee your little test.”

“Alright. Well, let’s get this going. This is already going to be a heavy chapter, lets not add too much filler hm?” I asked, a small smile on my face and my hands behind my head.

“Heh, eager… you’ll regret that.” He said, stomping the ground of my little room, making it break apart and I fell down a long slide, and into… Infants… Infant corpses made up this whole new room! Oh god I feel sick… “First Test, See how far your sanity can stretch!” Adam called from way above.

With middle finger to the sky I looked around, having flashes of Luna and Shy’s kids in this state… it didn’t help me trying to hold back bile. “Gods this is fucked.” I said before standing up, trying to get off the pile ASAP.

Once standing I moved through this… sickness and over to the exit. The wallway I found myself in looked like Abstract art. Stairways to nowhere. Doors on the ceiling, a man on an upside down cross next to me and His guts are hanging out and his penis is all kinds of STD’s… I never walked away quicker. This… I had to be in Hell. There was no other way to explain all this. You know I always said I was going to hell but come on people. I let myself have my chuckle, knowing I wont get them often down here.

I opened a door next to me once I was well away from that...thing. It looked like a...a… Skeleton orgy… “Hey, close the door or join in!” One of them yelled.

I couldn't help but laugh. “Alright, enjoy bonetown.” I said as I shut the door and moved on.

The next door I opened was- OH GOD THAT’S A LOT OF SHIT… and my nose is dead. I saw a hand reach out of the literal shit pile, a woman pulling herself out...and spit some shit out. “Gah-No-No!” She yelped, something pulling her back under….

“Nope nope nope.” I said, noping it out of there after the door shut.

The next door I opened was...human Centipede… Just...just why? I groaned before moving on. I won't lie, the only one of these things that didn't weigh on my mind was the skeleton Orgy, and that was because it was funny. Everything else…. I may joke, but that is to help cope with this shit.

“Heheheheheehhe…” I stiffened up, hearing that ever so fucking laugh of the Left 4 Dead Jockey… I turned around, and...nothing. “Grah!” It fell from above, almost like it is trying to rip my head off as it is wrangling me around madly. I then do something I’m surprised no one in Left 4 Dead did in this situation, I forced us into a wall and banged it repeatedly against it before trying to throw it over my shoulders.

It managed to work, the fuckers neck snapped on the last bang and it fell off me. SHIT THAT HURTS! I stomped on its head to make sure its dead before stumbling on. “Damn, got so used to my strength, forgot how it was without it.”

I moved on, looking for a means to escape this place. I knew my breath was starting to become more ragged as my heart pounded in my chest, my hand twitching at the slightest sudden noise, begging to be filled with a weapon again.

I opened another door. Inside was a room with people jabbed full of knives and swords. They were like pincushions. ‘They deserve it’ I shook my head. That didn't sound like me. This place it getting to me more than I thought. I tried to ignore the strange rush down my spine as I moved on, feeling sick that such a thought came to me.

The hallway changed, what was a glowing white floor was not beginning to look rotten, aged and worn. The doors changed from thick wood to heavy metals with viewing windows. I tried to just walk past… but damn my curiosity. I peeked through one, expecting another form of horror that I’ve seen so far.

Inside the first was what looked like a man, eating his own fingers while his legs were being eaten by maggots… I shudder, as I move on, trying to ignore the strange feeling starting to well up inside me as I moved on.

I started feeling hungry. Damn, when was the last time I ate? I shook off the thought, trying to find something. The next window showed a woman in a restrain jacket… Window! There’s a window in her room. I glanced around and started to open the door. Maybe the Window will give me a clue as to where I was… at least that was what I was telling myself. Logicly I knew moving forward would be better, but something told me to go in, check the window.

I entered, the lady looked up at me before looking back to...the blank wall. I walked passed her and… yup...hell. Demons, fire, brimstone...why is this building surrounded by a tall wall and is guarded? Actually, looking at the demons inside the wall I can see and the ones out there...the ones outside this places wall look...wild.

“Strange… but it’s hell, what did I want?” I said before turning around, heading for the door.

“Safe.” The woman spoke, making me turn and look. “Vast chaos all around, devil was angel sent. Saved us. This place, is no prison, it is haven.” She spoke, then burst out into manic laughter, making me leave and close the door behind me.

“Yeah. not ap- creepy at all.” I said, wondering why I almost said appealing as I moved on, the feeling growing as my steps echoed in the halls.

As I walked down the hall I came across a hole. The drop led down into a lower floor and I saw what looked like a green skinned man wearing white with an axe standing guard there. “Yo, what's up?” I asked from above with a small wave.

He turned, looking up at me. “Hey, why aren’t you in your cell!?” He barked. “We got a runner!”

I shrugged before smiling softly, a small chuckle escaping my lips. ‘Let the fools chace, gives me a chance to rip and tear!’ My eyes go wide as I take a step back. The fuck was that? I recover and start to run, knowing it won’t be long before guards swarm this place.

As I was running one of the doors broke down and- FUCK it’s Jason! I backed up...but to my surprise… he motioned for me to follow. All right then… as I was never a counselor I should be alright. That and I’m insane as I decided to follow the friday the thirteenth psycho.

I ran with him, and we hopped into a hole in the wall, sliding through the space between the walls and falling into a dark room. There was the light of a flashlight suddenly shined on me. “Did Jason send you?” Someone asked, right as a thud was made behind me. “Ah, so he did then.”

“So… who do I owe Escaping the guards? Besides Voorhees behind me?” I asked, knowing which machete wielding zombie landed behind me.

“I’m Alice. We are escapees, like you.”

“Well nice to meet you.” I said, wondering just what I need to do to pass this test already. ‘We had a deal.’ Damn it what is with that voice?!

“So, what you do in life to end up here?”

“No clue… I mean there is one thing but after that I did everything I could to redeem myself for it.” I said, thinking back to my lowest moment.

“Oh, what?”

“I… I killed my Cousin… and her unborn child…” I said, admitting my greatest sin… besides lust but I blame my wifes for that. ‘And boy did we enjoy it~’

“Oh, that all?” Alice asked, putting the flashlight on- SWEET FUCKING HELL SHE’S FRANKENSTEIN!! “I stole body parts from the local girls who bullied me, killed them then stitched their best parts for my own. This face isn’t even mine, brain is though.”

“And frankly who doesn't know about Jason.” I said with a sigh. “I get my sin is petty compared to others, but besides that, which I already got punished by a god for, I don’t know why I am here.” ‘Awe, doesn't want to admit to me! Hehehe! Lets have some fun already!’ The voice shouted, causing me to wince.

“So, wanna go raid the cafe?” Alice asked.

“S-sure.” I said, putting my hand on my forehead, the voice rather bothersome now.

She lead me to another crawl space where we all squeezed into some vents and they popped out to what looked like… a school cafeteria kitchen… huh, rather anticlimactic.

“Not what I expected from Hell’s kitchen. Expected more Gordon Ramsay.” I joked

Alice opened one of the fridges, pulling out a large tray of… Pizza! We all took some slices and began eating. “Gotta admit, those cooks sure know how to make good food for demons.”

I nodded. “Makes sense. Best way to calm anything down is to feed it.” ‘So why not feed me?’

“So.”Alice started, talking between bites. “I was thinking that, next we kill time in the library.”

Jason grunted an approving noise.

I shrugged. “Why not. Got nothing better to do.” ‘oh yes you do~’ Seriously this is starting to scare me now.

We headed back out, the Library was nearby and it was HUGE!!! Twilight would not wanna leave here either. “Damn, is today the day I find all the places my sister would love to be?” I thought out loud as I felt a pull leading me to some specific books. Why? No clue.

I traveled down the path to an isle with rather old looking books. I took one off the shelf, opening it the words them formed a face. “Oh great, people. God I hate people.” The book groaned… okay….

“Awe, I hate you too.” I said with a chuckle. “So, what are you about?”

“Well I’m about wanting to be alone, Madness, Insanities, old legends. I’m a LExicon for fucks sake ya twink! Ask me anything and I more than likely know about it.”

“Alright then, What is with this voice in my head that has just gotten louder the longer I’m down here?” I asked, wanting this to be over with. I didn’t know that there was some black starting to spread into the whites of my eyes, how could I have?

“Well, remember when you murdered your pregnant cousin?” The book asked, showing me the event in third person, then bringing back its face. “That triggered the Psychopath blood in your body, injected into your oldest Ancestor. You are not fully capable of becoming a Psychopath, rather, you can or will, become an Insanity. Almost like a Psychopath just much crazier and lacking manners and any sense of mercy. I mean hell, they are treated like dogs Insanities, when Psychopaths get a hold of them. Heh, imagine that, you with a dog collar. Oh wait, no need. Luna made you wear one on your wedding night for Role play.” SHIT HE DOES KNOW EVERYTHING!

“Damn, impressive.” I said, gasping as my voice was now multi toned. ‘Ah, you missed me? Come on, stop fighting and let me play!’ “The fuck..” I said as my mind was assaulted with scenes of me ripping people in half, covered in black and red… things and laughing… and the worst part is I enjoyed it.

I dropped the book. “Owe! At least put me away before you have your freak out.” The book whined. I ignored him and clutched my head, my now completely back with red iris eyes darting everywhere looking for… something! My breath quickened. ‘Finally, I’ll get to run wild in the perfect body! Brother would be so proud!’ “Hehe...heheha. Hehahahaha.” I chuckled as I felt my grip loosening.

“And he’s gone.” The book said, closing itself before poofing away in a blink.

It hurt all over. I tried to think of Luna, Shy, Dash, anyone, just for it to be ruined by a image of killing them, or worse. “A-Alice, Jason, Get out of here!” I said, wanting them to get out before this...Thing completely takes me.

This can’t be how it ends. It can’t. I can’t become a monster! I can’t… I gritted my teeth, forcing my happiest memories to resurface… including mom coming back to life… “I WON’T!” I shouted, my positive emotions and memories flowing and circeling with this things hellish images.

“You think you can get rid of me? You might as well just die as well! Heheheha! You don't get it do you? Hahaha! I am always here! Haha!” It said.

“Don’t need to.” I grunted. “Just need to control you.” I said, my own voice coming more naturally now, and less of a fight as my good memories began to integrate with this things wants.

“Oh looky here! I knew you were perfect! A fight for my very own body!” It said through my mouth as it also fought with it’s own images. Ones of pain, My family all killed, or raped, or other images that I know would normally ruin me. Key, normally.

I chuckled, standing back up. “You know, for being evil, your material is already overused.”

“What are you saying? After all, the square root of Raspberry has been legalized!” It said. “Let go already, it’s been too long since I killed or got off. That orange of a daughter of yours seems pretty tight~”

“Yeah, overused.” I said, stretching. “You see, you are right. You will always be there. Nothing I can do about that… so, I’ve accepted that. I’ve accepted you. But… I’m not becoming you. I’m gonna use you for what I want.”

“Oh the mortal tried to collar the god! Heheha! Your perfect, just as crazy as I am!” it said, mentally lunging for me.

“Yeah. Two equally crazy entities inhabiting the same body… though, science tells us two equally strong forces cancel out, in this case, seems my crazy is the dominant, but your powers are mine to use and abuse.”

“No..” ‘NO! I Want to see my brother again! I want to kill! Let me out! I will haught all of your blood! I will bathe in it!’ It said, starting to lose some control over my body.

“Yeah, well, touch cookies. I’ve always been afraid of something inside me. Now that I know what it is, you aren’t as scary now that I have something to lose, something worth dying for. Frankly, all you are at this point is my untapped new powers.” With that, In my mindscape I formed a collar and latched it into a mass of black and red, growling back at it. “Now Heel!” It heeded, almost forcing itself to bow before me. With a smirk I opened my eyes, now back to normal as I picked myself off the floor. “That happened.”

“Not bad.” Cript said, appearing behind me. “Taming your Insanity. Proud of you.” He said, throwing me a cookie.

I caught it with my mouth. “Thanks, though you would think that I already have that down, what with the readers and everyone knowing I actively see and tear down the 4th wall.”

“Yeah but one of your writters is lazy.” He laughed. “Lesson one, complete. Now, for lesson two.”

“What is lesson two? Also, what will happen to Jason and Alice?”

“They live here, if they get caught they will likely escape again.” Cript rolled his eyes. “Lesson two. Learning from the best.”

I raise an eyebrow and shrugged. “Alrighty then. Let’s get this show on the road.”

“Alright. You won’t have your X-blade for this but you will have Oath and Oblivion.” Cript said, snapping his fingers.

I woke up in what I think it outside a village is the music is anything to go off of. I got up. I felt my powers back, but my form was still human. As I got up, Neoshadows and Invisibles all appeared around me. With a sigh, I summoned Oath and Oblivion. “Come on you two, Let not get another scar from these Purebloods.” I said before charging forward.

Before I landed a blow through, Chains of light shot out from behind me, hacking the Neo Shadows and wrapping around the Invisibles. “Retribution!” That voice! I saw them all dragged along, the chains linking to one as...They returned to the X-blade, the Invisibles impaling themselves as the chains returned. The heartless slain, I saw… Unum… THE Unum, wielding X like Terra in the kh2 secret movie. “Hey traveler.” She said, walking over.

“Uh, hey.” I said “Didn't expect them to appear so suddenly, but I guess I wasn't expecting an X-blade wielder to show up either.” I said, resting Oath and Oblivion on my shoulders. ‘Okay, She doesn't know you. That means either I’m in the past, or there was a Unum missed by Core. This isn’t Zeke’s’

“Heh. You must be lost to not know this is Daybreak VIllage.” So Daybreak was Unum’s home too?

“Uhm, yeah. My dad sent me to find someone to help me train, and I kinda forgot to ask for a map.” I said. Lame excuse I know but hey I’m trying!

“Yeah, well I guess you ended up in the right place. No better place to find a Keyblade master. We are kinda known for that, well, used to. Now we are known for me wielding this big ass thing.” She laughed.

“Tell me about it, I’m known for wielding these twins back where I’m from, no let’s forget everything else I do.’ I said with a chuckle. “Name’s... Colin. Yours?” I asked, already knowing, but maintaining appearances. Besides, there are two reasons for giving her my original name. First is I am in my human form, so Eclipse will be a strange name. Second, even if this one ends up dying, I don’t want to create problems in the future if anyone here would recognize my name and personality.

“Unum Heart. Glad to meet ya Colin. Well come on, we might be able to find someone to teach you.”

“Thanks.” I said, following her as I mentally spoke to my partners. ‘Alright, we are definitely in the past.’

”Yup! Damn I miss these days! Heartless were being slain left and right, and all the worlds where still one.” Oblivion said.

”Not to mention our old Wielders… I miss Jeena. But hey, on the bright side We now are together with one wielder.” Oath said with a hint of melancholy.

”Yeah...wait, wasn’t MY Wielder in this town? Donovan?” Oblivion questioned himself.

”....Awe shit.” Oath cused, catching me off Guard. ”Jenna was here as well.”

‘Well this is going to be interesting.’ I thought as we continued to draw closer to the village.

The village was calm, rather peaceful and it’s population seemed fair. Guess Daybreak was always a place for Keyblade wielders. I smiled, it may not be the orphanage back home, but daybreak always feels like home to anyone who steps in it, not matter what version. “So, where are we headed?” I asked in a relaxed tone.

“Town hall. I know someone who works there that can help you.” Unum said. Town hall reminded me of Twilight's Library. I kept my mouth closed as we walked to it, hoping for their sake we don't meet Oath’s and Oblivion’s old wielders. I don't want them to hurt.

We entered a room and- CORE?! “Oh, hey Unum.” He said. “Who’s this?” He asked, pointing a quill at me. It was everything I could do to not charge at him or run. I took a deep breath to help me calm down. ‘It is him in the past. He isn’t evil yet. Calm down.’ I told myself.

“His name’s Colin. He traveled looking for a Keyblade master.” Unum explained. So glad I gave that name instead of Eclipse right now. Past (Future?) me is thankful for the headache prevented.

I nodded. “Yeah. My dad sent me to go train, stating that I was good, but needed professional training instead of being self taught.” I fibed.

“Oh. Well we can find you a master here. It’s half of my job to find young wielers a master, the other half is guarding the town.” He said, motioning for me to take a seat.

Disbanding Oath and Oblivion, I sat down, although I was ready to summon them at any moment. “So how does this work? Questions, a look at what I can already do, all of the above?” I asked, acting in my usual without-a-care-in-the-world attitude. No I was not going to mention my mark of mastery. It would cause more harm than good at this point.

“More of a synergy actually.” Core stated. “You see, some welders work better if their hearts are on the same field of power at their teacher, making learning easier.”

“So how does that go down?” I asked, honestly interested despite my aloof nature.

“Simple. Summon your Keyblade and let it copy how your heart’s true nature is. The result will be a flow of light and darkness that will actively seek out something like it.”

“That’s pretty cool to be honest, but will it work with be being a dual wielder? Seriously, I got both of them at the same time.” I asked.

“Huh. That’s a rare one, just rare, not unheard of.” He said. “Then, summon them both and try it. Often times with dual Keyblade wielders it takes both, especially if they are twin Keyblades, such as Oathkeeper and Oblivion, No name and Gazing eye, Rejection and Acceptance. The list goes on. So far we have forty nine twin keyblades that we know of.”

“That’s interesting. Alright, let’s do this.” I said, summoning both into my hands, smiling as the flurry of darkness and flash of light covered each hand before revealing their forms.

The resulting aura then left them, flying around the room before...circling Core. “Oh, well isn’t that convenient.” Core said, surprised.

Internally I was stunned. Externally I just shrugged. “Yeah, rather surprising to be honest.”

“Well, That’s a new one. Never had an apprentice before.” Core said, looking thoughtful. “Well, guess I’m going to be teaching you then.”

“Sure.” I said. Inside I still haven't recovered and was staring off into space of my mindscape.

“Guess there’s no time like the present. Come on, we best train just outside town limits.” Core said, getting up from his desk as I followed.

‘Guys… Tell me this isn't a paradox, or than this is just an illusion.’ I spoke to the two keyblades as we walked.

”I honestly have no idea.”

‘Stars this is gonna be a headache. At least I’ll have a story for the others later… wonder why Core didn't recognize my fighting style… meh.’ I thought before paying attention to where we were heading.

”Well it was a great many years since you are born Eclipse, likely he forgot all about you by the time you meet him.”

‘Let's hope, otherwise Core had more planned for me than we ever thought.’ I responded. “So, I know we are headed out of town, but where are we heading exactly?”

“A nearby open field. Plenty of space to train.”

I nodded, taking a deep breath of the clean air with a small smile. “It really is peaceful, minus the heartless of course.”

“They appear here and there. Rarely are they trouble.”

“Yeah, still, best not to grow complacent. That’s why we train after all, right?” I said before mentally cursing. I remembered that I looked like I was barely 18, not someone who has fought for years on end. I shouldn't have this much wisdom in battle.

“True.” Core said simply. “So, have any family aside from your father?”

“Well, yeah. Where I’m from, Polygamy is accepted, so I have three wives, and basically adopted a orphanage.” I admitted with a chuckle. “Should have seen the looks on their faces… Thats one memory to treasure.”

“Hm. I can image. For me, it was always just myself, my brothers and my father. Never met my mother and father never said her name even. We figure it must have been a bad falling out after we were born or she died. One of the two we figured. Our youngest brother vanished some years back. I still think him alive somewhere, but I grow doubtful as time goes on. My eldest brother is with father. The two are wizards, and brother wishes to create new variety of spells for Keyblades and even non keyblade wielders.”

“Noble goal. I hope you find your other brother one day.” I said honestly, despite knowing he does... just not in a happy way.

“Thank you. That warms my heart to hear compassion, even from a person I only recently met.” This core is so polite and nice, losing Unum really screwed him over.

“Anytime.” I said with a smile. “So how is this going to go down? This whole apprenticeship thing?” I ask, being my carefree self to hide how much I now feel sorry for Core.

“For now I feel simple practices are in order.” Core said, stopping and waving his hand, making five balls of light appear. “Take them out as fast as you can.”

I nodded with a grin before taking a stance. “Just say when.” I said, Oath and Oblivion giving a small flash each, telling me they too were ready to show what we got.

“Ready...begin!”

With a burst of speed, and a little bit of wind magic, I dashed to the first, striking fast and true before jumping back. “Blizzard!” I said, shooting Ice to finish it off before throwing a warp raid to another orb. I stabbed them both into the sphere before pumping all my heart into my keyblades, making them shine and be covered in darkness respectively before releasing the blast, taking care of the second one. “Mega flare!” I said, launching the super fireball at a pair that strayed too close to one another. I dashed in quick and strong, attacking the pair at the same time before I backed off. I turned to the final one before I poured my everything into Oath and Oblivion and sliced. For a second, nothing seemed to happen before a wave of Light intertwined with Darkness launched at the final orb. I smiled before taking a knee. “Woo, that last attack was draining.”

“Amazing.” Core said. “Tell me, what that Mega Flare spell of your own making? I’ve never seen such a pyromancy before.”

“Kinda. One of my family is in tuned to fire, and lets just say we like to experiment.” I said, bullshitting my way to explanation.

“Interesting. I may have to tell my brother he has some competition.” Core laughed. Wow, he’s nice, and gullible. This is the same guy who almost killed us all several times before? “With skill like that I feel we cna advance onto the more master level training. First off, can you summon forth chains of light?”

I chuckled, scratching the back of my head. “I’ve never tried to be honest.”

“Here.” Core said, summoning a single orb of light. “Try it. The chains of light are one of the first spells taught to man by Kingdom Hearts. Only those who wield the X-blade like Unum or those deserving of the title of Keyblade master can use them. Think of them as extensions of your Keyblade. Or in your case Keyblades.”

I nodded, knowing this will be a dead giveaway of my Mark of Mastery. I took a deep breath and let myself go, focusing on the chains of light I have seen now many times. In my mind’s eye, They were different from normal chains of light, probably since I have made true piece with my darkness and light, but they should function the same. I lifted both Oath and Oblivion before willing them to try and chain up the orb, my eyes still closed so I really can’t tell if it worked, or if I’m looking like a fool.

“Excellent.” Core said. I opened my eyes and the orb was wrapped up in the chains of light. “Now, swing it up into the air, and slam it back down.”

I smiled before raising oath, having her hold a majority of the chains as I lifted up the orb and slammed it down. Before it landed, I had oblivion make a spike of black ice appear from under the spot, skewering the orb. “Want a Light-kabob?” I joked.

“Huh, interesting form.” Core said. “Now, how about your Commands?”

“Thats… a hard one to answer.” I said with a nervous chuckle. “My dad said I have some, but I don’t know how to use them, or any to be honest.” I looked rather sheepish as I spoke honesty.

“Hm, now that is interesting. Well, do you know of any from seeing them in person, or hearing or reading about them?”

“Well I know of a few. Fireworks, Dream Catcher, Transcendence, Dark Raid, Victory Pose, Meteor Rain, Explosion, Time Splicer, and Ghost Drive. But how to use them? No clue.” I said with a shrug, thankful that Lancerot knows how to check old chapters or I would have never remembered all those.

“I know of Dream Catcher, Transcendence and Meteor Rain. Can you explain the rest?”

“I don’t know anything about Dark Raid, save for the name, but Fireworks and Victory Pose are just show Commands, no power to them save to awe a crowd. Meteor is what my dad calls a Shocklock, but they can’t be used often. Explosion is a Area of effect attack, Time Splicer is a strange mix of Stop that warps you around to attack all affected opponents, and Ghost drive is a Style of attacking all based around warping locations.”

“Hm, shotlocks are few and far between. They are very new magic.”

“Really? Huh, wonder how Dad says I should know it then. Weird.” I said, playing dumb.

“Well, to activate a shotlock you have to focus on what you want to hit with it, be it one or many foes. As you learn to become familiar with them, they become easier and you can lock onto foes in seconds. The more you can focus at once, the more times you can use your shotlock.”

“Got it. Seems easy enough.” I said with a shrug.

“Now then.” Core said, summoning a large herd of orbs of light. “Focus.”

With a pop of my neck I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath, before opening them, my red eyes focusing on the orbs in front of me while still pumping magic into the twins. I felt the magic surge and on reaction, I leaped into the air, spinning Oath and Oblivion in their respected hands at their centers as large fiery rocks shot out of the small whirlwinds, each fiery rock exploding on impact. It ended, but I felt that Shotlock could go further. Guess I’m gonna have to level it up. “That was impressive, but I can tell I can do more…” I said as I look at where the orbs used to be.

“Yes. Practice makes perfect.” Core stated.

“Well, Good thing I have a excellent master to help me train then huh?” I asked with a laugh.

“Alright then. Now, what’s next?”

“Good question. I guess we can work on Dream Catcher. I have no idea how that one works.”

“Dream Catcher, The move that summons your opponents Dream Eater as your allie, using some of their basic moves against them.”

“That's interesting for sure.” I said with a nod. “But how useful is it to one without a Dream Eater?”

“Useless.” Core stated simply.

“I probably won’t be using it often.” I muttered to myself before speaking up. “Well, I think that one can hold off then. Any your interested in helping me learn?”

“Time splicer.” Core stated.

“Time Splicer? Well, if you think you can trust me with Chronomancy.” I said with a shrug, not saying that I already know Stopga.

“Time splicer transcends basic or even advanced stop spells. It alters your own movements through time, giving the illusion of teleportation.”

“Interesting. I already know Stop, so it should help out with learning it. Well let’s get to it before it gets late.” I said with a smile.

“Right.” Core said, summoning five orbs of light. “Time Splicer uses a lot of mana. Each spell has a unique trigger, for Time Splicer, it’s a mix of Stogza and the matrix used to open DTL’s.”

“Really? Well what’s the harm in trying. How long did it take you to learn it?”

“Without freezing myself… a week.” Core admitted.

“Yikes. Looks like we’ll be spending some time on this one.” I said before stretching. “Alright then, Let’s do this Oath, Oblivion.” I said with a smile before trying to focus on doing what Core said to do, using stopza and a DTL at the same time.

And I froze. “Well… Wonder how long yours will last?” Core pondered, taking a seat on the ground. “Not sure if you can hear this, but mine lasted about four hours. Was stiff as all hell after it was over.”

I mentally rolled my eyes. ‘So, guys, what happened?’ I asked the keyblades

”Hey! Casting two completely different types of spells from two different classes of magic is hard. You’re lucky you didn’t end up in a DTL to we forgot where!”

‘Okay okay chill. Look, we just need to figure out what went wrong and try again… when we unfreeze that is.’ I said, trying to calm down the brotherly Keyblade.

Back To The Future! Not The Movie!

View Online

A month had passed since Cript dumped me here in...whatever year this was when Core was human and nice. In that time I’ve learned to activate all types of attacks, abilities, limits, Shotlocks, and even some Dream Eater creating. I have a Meow Wow named Pitty.

Core and I where in a spar, the two of us meeting each other pretty equally. “Not bad. “Core said, dodging my Blizzaga. To my surprise, his Keyblade was Dark Gnaw, though, that could be some kinda irony or something.

“Well, I have been training with the best.” I said as I side stepped a strike from him. Honestly, I didn't think I would ever say this, But In my time here I’ve begun to see Core as almost a friend. We laughed, trained, and overall just did things friends do in this last month.

As the battle went on I caught him with the Time Splicer attack I managed to learn in three days, beating his record for learning it. That did it as when he was no longer frozen in time he was flung back and onto the ground. “Ouch. Heh, wow Colin.” Core said, jumping back up to his feet. “It’s been barely a month and you can already knock me on my ass.”

“Heh, I’ve always been a quick study.” I said with a smile as I unsummoned Oath and Oblivion. “Though you don’t make it easy, let me tell you.”

“Well before coming to Daybreak Village I was a lot less easy going.” He said, scratching the back of his head.

“Really?” I asked. “How so?”

“Well after my younger brother vanished and dad and big bro went off to research in that tower of theirs… I just kinda wondered. My skills with a Keyblade where, for the most part, unmatched. In all the time I traveled I fought a lot of heartless, and dueled other Keyblade wielder. I won every fight… Then I came here. Figured if I can beat the wielder of the X-blade then, maybe I wouldn’t feel so empty. Unum not only kicked my ass but made me eat my words. Heh, that was the first time I ever lost a fight. Somehow… I felt better about that, and I never left.”

“Oh? That's quite a tale.” Ah yes, I had nearly forgotten… This Core was a dence ass mother fucker. Why do I say that? Well, he as a not so subtle crush on Unum, And Unum isn't even hiding her feelings for him, and he doesn't even notice!

“So, you have one more test before I can give you a mark of mastery, but since the Festival of Daylight is coming up let’s hold it off till next week.” The festival of Daylight, I Learned, is an old Keyblade wielder holiday that is held every time Kingdom Hearts passes over the world a hundred times. So three times a year. All Keyblade wielders during the day spar, dance, and at the end of the day they all raise their Keyblades to Kingdom Hearts, and let chains of light shoot up to it, the chains changing to streams of light that let you connect your heart to Kingdom Hearts. I’m looking forwards to it.

“Have any plans for that night?” I asked. What? If Core and Unum dont get together, when I kinda become a paradox.

“”Hmm… not really.” Core said, making me hang my head at the Sora level of thick headedness.

“You sure? I mean, the festival seems like the perfect time for a date. Surely there is someone you got your eyes on.” I said casually, like a best friend would as to not give away me playing matchmaker.

“Heh, I dunno. Most women in Daybreak Village are already spoken for and the ones available might not be that into me.”

OH COME ON! I chuckled. “Come on man, Surely one has caught your eye? What about Unum? I heard she’s single.”

“Well, yeah but dude, asking out the X-blade wielder?! She’s...intimidating….”

“How so?” I asked, ignoring his look. “She’s still human, just like any other. Holding X doesn't change that. She probably has flaws, secrets, desires, just like any other. Besides, the worst that happens is she says no, right?”

“Have you seen her kill a Darkside? All she needs to do is swing the X-blade and FIVE die immediately. I don’t wanna screw something up and end up on the wrong side of that attack.”

Oh well, I planted the idea in him… Maybe I’ll have better luck with Unum. “Whatever man. All I’m saying is, it’s better to give it a shot, then to spend the rest of your life wondering ‘What if’. But, I’ll drop it.” I said, patting him on the shoulder.

“Uh...thanks?” He said, confused. “I’m heading back to my place. See ya when the festival starts?”

“Sure man, see you then. Maybe we can go full out, give people something to wow them eh?” I said with a hearty smile, already planning on what to say to Unum.

“Heh, sure man.” As Core and I lept into action, running the long way around to where I know Unum usually is. Town limits, where the most Heartless seem to appear. As expected I spotted her hacking some Shadow heartless, taking out the last of them with no effort needed.

“Yo, Unum, what's up?” I said, warping next to her with a smile.

“Oh! Oh, you’re Core’s student...Colin, right?” She asked.

“You got it. Thanks by the way for the help when we first met.” I said, breaking the ice.

“Oh, it’s just what I do. It’s why I spend most of the time outside the town limits. Lots of reckless kids and new faces get ambushed out here.”

“Ha! Nice.” I said with a good natured laugh. “So, what’s the story with you and Core?”

“Oh, about four years back he walked into town, challenging any and all who would face him. People where starting to get worried when none of the guard or other Masters could best him. So, I stepped in and beat him with one hit. Heh, he had this look like he was surprised… and happy. He’s been here ever since.”

“That’s interesting. So, you two ever going to get together? Seriously, the tension is real, He’s just the densest material known to Kingdom Hearts.” I said bluntly.

Unum blushed, got ya, and then laughed. “Heheh...yeah, he is pretty clueless...but I like that about him, makes him come off as a big kid but when he needs to be he can be serious. He just finds acting silly more...fun.”

I chuckled “I get that completely. But I should let you know, besides being dense, he is honestly intimidated to ask.” I said, figuring I can be blunt and honest with Unum.

“Heh…” That seemed to deflate her happiness. “Yeah… I can’t blame him. I mean, look at this shit!” She said, raising X. “I swear ever since Kingdom Hearts gave this weapon to me my life just...changed. People I used to know and play with where careful with what they said and what they did. My own parents felt they were… unworthy to raise me, so I was sent to live with some of the best Keyblade masters around. They raised me to be a weapon, and screw childhood.”

I nodded. “I understand better than you know. But honestly? Fuck, that. You forge your own fate. You want to continue to be a weapon fine, But I know that is not what you want.” I said, my voice raising in conviction.

“Yeah. To be honest… No, it’s embarrassing.” She said, blushing a bit.

“What? Come on, who is going to tell, the heartless?” I said with a smile.

“Well…” she said, getting closer. “I kinda have...fantasies about Core…”

“Oh? Is that all?” I said with a smile. “Look, I know Core likes you but is scared to ask, and doesn't think you’ll like him back. I tried to convince him to ask you out to the festival but you can guess how that went. So, How about we work together to get you two together?” I said, offering a handshake.

“Okay, but seriously...I’ve never even been on a date…” She said, rubbing her arm.

“It’s a good think you’re talking to a guy with three wives. I know how to handle a date, and can give a few pointers my girls told me. But, first, we need to get you two together in the first place.” I said reassuringly.

“Well, how is that gonna work? A duel would be unfair, I can’t dance to save my life, thank Kingdom Hearts I don’t have to.”

“For dancing I can teach you the basics if you want, but there is also singing, us pretending to be a couple to spark jealousy and challenging me to a duel, and then there is also us convincing him to ask you himself, though that one is impossible.”

“Sing. I can sing.” She said.

I smiled. “Alright, now, we are going to need to talk to the performers before hand, but it would be awesome for them to decide to do a audience duet and just happen to choose both you and Core to do a love song~” I chuckled. “Oh and I’ll make sure he is there for it, don’t worry about that.”

“Can Core even sing? I’ve never heard him sing before.”

“No clue, but I’d bet money he can when he starts getting confidant. Us guys can do anything as long as it is for a potential lover.” I said with a cocky grin.

Unum blushed even harder, and began twirling some of her hair. “Heh, Lovers? We haven’t even been on a date yet Colin, a bit soon to label us as that isn’t it?”

“Call it a hunch.” I said with a small smirk. “So, you in?”

“Well, if it means I at least get a date out of this, sure.”

“Trust me, if you and Core aren't a item before we conect wit the big o’l KH, well that means I’ll have to get you both drunk.” I said with a cheeky smile.

“Heh, good luck. Core’s got an alcohol tolerance that can rival the distillery machine that made it.”

“Oh I don't need luck, not with the mix known as Devil’s Poison.” I said with a chuckle.

“Devil’s Poison? Is that even safe given the name?”

“To most people? Nope! To those like me with extreme tolerance? It’s about one of the only things that can get me drunk.” I admitted with a shrug. “But hey, When drunk, you’ll both either confess, or end up in the same bed, or both. Besides, I know you want to see Core drunk.” I said with a wolfish smirk.

“Heh, the idea is funny. I’ll see you and Core at the festival then.” Unum said, waving a hand and heading back to town.

“Alright, I gotta find the performers and plan out the song. See you!” I said before heading off in a different direction.

The festival began and things got fun. I already was challenged to, and won nine duels before heading to some of the stalls for food and trinkets. I already planned out the idea with Unum, the stage show people, and a few others who would need to know. So I have time to kill.

“See anything you like?” I looked up at the booth perso- CRIPT!? … Why is he wearing a fake mustache?

“Alright, what are you doing here dad.” I said with a roll of my eyes as I walked up to the booth.

“I am that bored.” Cript said, shrugging as he took the false mustache off. “So, you seem to have grown.”

“Well, yeah.” I admitted with a small smile “I didn't expect to become such fast friends with Core, or Unum for that matter. Nor did I expect Core to be the densest material in all the realms. Nor play matchmaker. Lets just say I expected none of this.”

“Meh, had to make sure you were born.” Cript said… wait...

“So, Core is my great great who knows how many great great grandfather?”

“Uh, duh. If he’s Zeke’s he’s yours too.”

“....I had to play matchmaker for my grandfather… doesnt this create a paradox in itself? I mean, If I didn't exist, they would never have gotten together, but I only exist because they got together.”

“You haven’t been looking in the mirror have you?” Cript asked, holding one up and...that’s not me...

“Am I Wolf?” I said, my jaw dropped.

“His name in this point in time is Akora.” Dad said, putting it away. “While he wielded a different Keyblade he was reported missing by his family for… a few months.” Cript smiled slyly.

“Won’t they find out, Unum and Core I mean, that I’m not who I say I am?” I asked. “I mean, once a description is given, I’m a dead ringer.”

“Relax, that’s what I’m here for. Now then, what’s your plan for getting them together?”

“Two phases. First is to get them to sing a duet together, hopefully that’ll break Core out of his shell, The second if that doesn't work is to get the two drunk and admit their feelings for one another, end up in bed, or both. And if that doesn't work, well lets just say Core is a lost cause.”

“Can’t have that, now can you?” Cript said, someone else coming up and buying a snowglobe from his booth. “So, got a last resort?”

“Yeah. During the binding to KH, make a ‘gentle’ nudge and cause the two to kiss during it.” I admitted.

“Simple, might be effective enough.” Cript shrugged. “Just so you know once this is all done and they hook up, I’m gonna return Wolf to his life, but we will stick around a while longer as ghostly observers. There’s a little tidbit you’ll wanna see after all this.”

I raised an eyebrow but shrugged. “Alright, Just hopes this works.” I said, starting off to find Core and make sure he was at the stage in time.

The plan worked. By the end of the festival, Core and Unum where drunk on each other. Thank god cause Core did not make it easy. Dad returned Wolf to his old/past life, and he fast forwarded things some so I could see this surprising news.

“I’m a bit sad to say goodbye to them, but I guess it would make it more painful for them if I stayed.” I said as I watched time flow past me.

“Yes, it can be.” Cript said, time stopping. Yen Sid’s tower? “As you know, Unum hid her pregnancy from Core, and gave her son, your ancestor, to God, Core’s brother and Yen Sid, right?”

“Yeah, that's all I know about it, mostly due to our chats with god.” I said honestly “But if that was it, you wouldn't have bothered bringing me to see this.”

“Unum and Core where together for six years before she was done in by an Embodiment. In that time, she hid two pregnancies.”

“Wait, So there is another child, or set of children related to Unum and Core?” I asked, to clarify

“Just one.” Cript said, before us ran Unum, looking weak and clothes bloody as she opened a DTl...carrying a bundled up baby. “A girl.” I was silent as I watched. It..hurt seeing her like this...

The scene changed once she entered the DTL, showing she exited and was surrounded by… Organization 13...no, no… “Shit.” Unum cursed.

“Unum.” One of them spoke. “You know this child will be destined for greatness.”

“Screw you! You raised me like a weapon, I am not letting you raise my daughter like that!”

“These are the masters who raised and trained Unum, since she was nine. When her parents handed custody over to her when she was given the X-blade.” Cript said.

I gripped my fist so hard they started to bleed as I watched. “I know. She told me.” I said, my aura flaring briefly.

“It is what’s best for the realm of light. With the heartless growing evermore in numbers, your lineage and bloodline alone can destroy them.” The same robed master spoke.

“I am not, letting you touch my child!” Unum shouted, darkness pulsating from her. This surprised the masters.

“W-what?! But, you wield the X-blade! You protect the light!”

“Yes… and I also hold a Balanced heart.” Unum spoke, one eye white, the other black. “Dark and light cannot exist by themselves alone. If you think I’m your weapon for light, remember this.” She said, a Dark Guardian heartless reaching out and grabbing the master she was speaking too. “I am also a guardian of darkness.” The Dark guardian ripped the master in half, the others bearing their Keyblades, only for the guardian to swipe them aside like nats and crush, snap and kill the others in brutal ways. When it was all done, the dark guardian left, Unum’s darkness subsiding, and she stood around corpses and blood.

“Don’t mess with a angry mother.” I spoke in a monotone voice, no remorse for them.

“Yup.” Cript said simply.

Unum kept on walking, opening a DTL as a DTD took in the corpses, leaving no evidence as she entered the DTL. The scene changed. Now we were on… This is… Destiny island? It’s so...different without all the child play stuff. Unum took a seat next to a small little sapling… that bore a single, tiny star shaped fruit. “Hey there, I remember you.” She said, touching the sapling. “You where a seed when I left. Glad to see you grew some.”

I couldn’t help but smile at the sight. Walking around to get a better look at the two. Unum looked… so sad, but I could still see a flicker of that strength I grew to know. “You would have been an amazing mother, I only wish you had more of a chance to do so.”

Unum just sat there, cradling her newborn. She then began to sing…

”When you walk away, you don’t hear me say,”

“Holds even more meaning, huh?” Cript asked as Unum sang the iconic song, this Lullaby version so… calming and...right.

I didnt even hide the tears flowing down my face. As the authors have made me, I rarely cry, always wanting to put even a little bit of positivity in even hopeless situations, but the overwhelming sorrow, added that this was my favorite song to sing even to my children… It made me want to go and hold them close, even if I know I have more training to do.

As Unum sang, she looked out at the sea, a small rowboat with a young, clearly married couple was coming ashore. Unum hid. As the two landed, Unum and I listened to them. “So, Hikari, what are we gonna do?” The man asked.

The woman, Hikari, sighed. “I don’t know… We want a child so badly… but I don’t think I’ll be able to live with another miscarriage…”

Unum’s face got mournful, she looked at her baby, kissing them on the head as she DTL’s to that cave area. We followed, seeing Unum placing some large leaves on the ground before gently putting her child on them. “You’ll love this place.” She cooed. “This is where I was born, and where you’ll grow up and have fun. The childhood and life I never had.” The cave of the islands was… the same, save for the door was missing.

Once her child was carefully placed, she summoned X. “This land birthed me, to wield you…” She spoke to the X-blade. “It should be balanced, like I am.” She pointed it at the wall behind, and a beam of darkness shot from the X-blade, slowly forming was a… wood door, with a keyhole design on it. “A link to the darkness, and the light. May this land now know harmony, for it’s shows both sides of our reality.” Unum sighed, looking over at her sleeping child again before exiting the cave. Seeing the couple still there, looking saddened, she picked up a rock and hit the outer rocks of the entrance, the sound echoing over to the couple.

“What was that?” The woman asked.

“It came from the old cave.” The man said, the two heading over. Unum ran back inside, giving her daughter one last, heartfelt goodbye.

“Please, my child… never know the burden of the fate of all light on your shoulders.” With that, Unum opened a DTL… and left.

The couple came in a bit later. “Hello? Hello?” The woman called into the cave, the two entering. “Oh my!” She yelped as seeing Unum’s child. “John… is that…” The baby began to cry, her husband, John apparently, was dumbfounded while the wife ran to the child’s side. “Shh it’s okay, it’s okay… What kind of person would leave their baby here?” She pondered.

“They look newborn.” The husband said, walking over to his wife holding Unum’s child. “Umbilical cord isn’t even cut yet.”

“Well if they didn’t want it then they should have been left to die. Not the baby.” The wife stated firmly, holding the baby close.

“You have no idea.” I said with I sigh. “You could never know.”

“Well, let’s head back to town, the doc should check her up.” The husband said.

“It’s like Kingdom Hearts answered our prayers.” The wife said as they left the cave.

“Why show me this…” I said, my heart heavy in my chest.

“You needed to see Sora’s ancestor.” Cript said.

“Honestly, not that surprised.” I sighed.

“And, Xehanort's.”

“Again, not surprised.” I said before explaining. “Unum ment for her line to know balance. It only stands to reason eventually they would diverge, one of light, the other of darkness, neither of them understanding the harmony that the two powers could possess.”

“Yeah. And now, you know.” Cript said, everything fading to a white void. “Core’s family and Unum’s both wak a balanced road, but since then, one of Unum’s children created quite the lineage of Keyblade wielders, good and evil, while the other created a line of criminals, that now, creating X’s latest wielder.”

“And an anomaly.” I said, pointing at myself. “The unpredictable user of balanced keyblades without a balanced heart.”

“Heh, that too. I’m showing you this because of a simple fact Eclipse.” Cript said, his expression and tone strict. “History repeats itself. Soon Zeke will have someone he cares for harmed, or worse. He might go off the deep end.”

“And you want me to be the one to real him in.” I guessed before I sighed. “How? I know I’m supposed to be this beacon of positivity, but to make a pun on my name, Zeke eclipses me in every way. Hell they all do. The Foretellers have each other and their Unions, John has the Void, Ben is the king of Nothingness, Zeke is the wielder of the true X-blade and that is not to mention all the other things he has going for him, then there is me. The only things I have that even come close are not because of me. I was adopted by you, and was just randomly given a X-blade by KH. I am not unique Cript, The only thing I have besides those is that I am the only me to have ever existed so far.”

“If you think that.” Cript said, beginning to circle me.

“What do you mean?” I asked, my eyes following him as much as they could.

“Well, if you really believe you’re nothing special, why not just reject Gods offer and die back on earth?”

“Because…” I paused. Why did I accept? I honestly didn't live a fulfilling life, My mother died when I was a kid, and my dad until recently was never a part of my life. I always had to hide my eyes because of their natural red, making me a outcast if I didn't have contact lenses. Why did I accept the offer, if I knew I was nothing special? “I don't know. A spur of the moment decision? Hell I named myself after my cat.”

“There are not enough people like us.” Cript said. “Unum had it, Core had it. Zeke has it, I have it, and you have it. We don’t know when to stop, we don’t accept death when it’s not our time, and even when we are royally screwed in terms of odds, we go on and try.”

“So basically we give the Authors the middle finger because we are stubborn as all hell?” I simplified.

“Hard to kill, we don’t die despite plot would be better off with it, win despite odds. Yeah, we’re basically Middle Fingers to everyone and everything in our way.”

I shrug “Still, I can be as stubborn as I want to be, doesn't matter if I’m barely poking my foes. But I suppose I’m not as useless as I think. After all, main characters always get a small bit of plot armor already.”

“Yeah.”

“So, whats next? More secrets, maybe a few new power ups? Maybe getting to see mom and learn about my culture like Ben did a few chapters ago?”

“Hey, now that’s outside your own story.” Cript laughed. “Sure, but it’s basically Equis but with Naga’s.”

“Meh, maybe later, after I’m done training. I do want to spend time with mom, but threats take the lead, you know?” I said with a small shrug

“Not always.” Cript said. “Sometimes, even with the threat looming overhead, it’s best to take time to relax and focus on what’s important to you.”

I sighed. “I know. Honestly I am tired, but I need to improve. If I don’t, the next time I see them might be the last time.”

“Well then, if that’s what you think.” Cript said, a hole appearing below me. I caught myself on the ledge if it. “Then I’ll have to show you otherwise. Sorry in advance.” Cript said, stomping his foot to my face and showing me into the hole as I fell. Well fuck.

I woke up in… a city, this whole place looks… like shit hit the fan. Wait, is the building on FIRE?! I tried summoning Oath and Oblivion, to no avail. I was human, I checked, my old body, not Wolfs.

“Shit.” I said as I looked around for water I tried to hear if anyone needed help.

The only thing I found was a crowbar. I opened the door and Cript is there… “Sup.” He said.

I grabbed the crowbar before looking at Cript “Alright, what the fuck is going on?”

“Eclipse, Colin, whatever. Welcome to the Anarchy Playground.” Cript said, waving a hand over the edge of the building. “This WHOLE world is one, large video game with every kind of apocalyptic event on simulation. You, and others, players, do, well, whatever.”

I sighed. “Just, call me whichever you prefer. And as for this place, why?”

“A reflection is a big place. Relax, death isn’t permanent, you just respawn in the worlds core, the hub area, and select here you wanna get dropped off. This place is where people can live out their violent fantasies. Don’t tell me you never imagined a Zombie Apocalypse.” Cript said, pointing off the side of the building… This is Left 4 Dead… 2… From what I am guessing.

“Yeah, but what gamer hasnt really?” I said with a sigh. “Basically, you’re saying I need a vacation.”

“Yes and no. You still seem to think that you aren’t up to stuff. You will be here for, oh, a month. No powers, no Keyblades, no anything. Just yourself and the environment. This test is to show you that you can pull off the impossible without having anything special.”

Sigh… of course the Authors and Cript would work together on something like this… “Fine. But I still believe I won't amount to much here.” I said

“Neither did I, yet look what I did.” Cript said, snapping his fingers before vanishing in a puff of smoke. At least he left a handgun… never really shot one. Know dad, birth dad, was a good shot…. huh.

I picked it up before looking it over. It looked like a M1911 .45 with a modified receiver… how I know that I have no clue. Chalking it up to genetics. I found a convenient holster for it before taking a good look at my surroundings.

Seeing nothing else around I headed down into the burning building of Left 4 Dead 2’s first level. Taking a deep breath I opened the door, and saw the undead freaks. I fired, six shots hitting six heads, and the rest shooting through the heads of up and coming undead. When it was empty one got close, pulling out the Crowbar I impaled it into it’s mouth, it exiting through it’s back neck and I pulled it back out as it fell dead… okay that was cool… Guess I have Josh’s aim.

I tried to not let the rush affect me too much, calming down the adenine so I can have a clear head to continue. Once My heart rate has leveled out, I continued on my way, smile on my face as I hummed. “Might as well have a little fun…”

Another infected rushed me. Without thinking I spun, grabbing the side of it’s head and smashing it into the wall next to me, it’s head exploding from the quick pressure… how did I… I mean, On earth I never did hand to hand combat and I never did this with Keyblade training. Alrighty then... I’m just going to accept that that was a thing and go along. I pulled out my gun and without looking fired the remaining five rounds behind me, scoring headshots on each Zombie that tried to sneak up on me before reloading and holstering. “Wait, where did this ammo come from?... I hate lazy writing…”

I went through the area, not having a single struggle when I made it to the elevator. I pressed it and… Dad, er, Josh...mom? It was Josh, clear as Day, that eyepatch gives it away, so does the outfit...forgot he went genderbent… “Hey there son.” She smiled.

“Oh, hey… did you change your name or are you still Josh?” I asked honestly as I holstered my pistol.

“Still Josh, screw Gender rules.” She said. “So, noticed how differently you fight?”

“Yeah, was kinda wondering about that. Know anything about it?” I asked

“You are a Ventral? Aren’t you?”

“Well yeah. I don’t think being reborn then getting my entire genetic makeup restructured changed that, strangely enough.”

“You had a killing mood, didn’t you?”

“Yup, although according to Wolf, it never truly ended, was just repressed.” I said with a shrug.

“Either way, the way you moved, shot, smashed that zombie’s head into the wall. All without thinking right?”

“Yeah, not to mention it felt… good in a strange way.” I admitted.

“Ventrals are tied to violence. We thrive in it, the adrenaline, the rush. We love fighting. In the past america paid some of our family to fight off the Nazi’s in world war two. And world war one. And Vietnam. Our family bloodline has seen more war then any one nations army.”

“The song Seven Nation Army comes to mind for some reason….”

“It fits I suppose.” She shrugged, pulling out an ammo clip from her pocket and tossing it to me. “Ready to fight like a Ventral?”

I grabbed it in mid air, unable to stop the smile on my face, nor the flash of red over my eyes. “Why not, Time to cut loose.”

I entered the elevator, and Josh pulled out her own pistol. Once we hit the ground level Josh and I rushed out for the Silenced SMGs. Once grabbed we opened fired while running into the horde that came at us. A Charger came at us. I saw Josh jump, climbing it’s massive arm and pulling it off to the side, making it fall before offloading four bullets from her handgun into its head, leaving it dead.

I dodged and weaved through the hoard. To me, it felt like they were in slow motion as I grabbed the SMGs and fired in controlled bursts. It all felt easy, right almost.

With ease I grabbed a Hunter as it jumped at me, and slammed it’s head into the ground before shooting it for good measure. With the hordes and specials gone we headed to the safe room. Once we closed the door… a You Survived, screen came on the door. “This whole world is a Video game.” Josh reminded. “Just go with it.”

I shrugged before taking this time to reload all my guns and check my crowbar. “Alright then, I forgot to ask, Here for fun or here for me?”

“You. Cript figured you wouldn’t get it on your own. So I am here to both bond, and teach you how to fight like a Ventral.”

“Works for me. The one day you and I started to bond I nearly died so this is a nice change of pace.”

“Yeah. This is gonna be fun.”

“So, Zombies just a start I presume?” I said as I saw a loading screen

“Yup.” Josh said, walking over to the other door, on a table next to it. More Guns. A pump action shotgun, another machine pistol, and a magnum. Josh took the other machine pistol. “Upgrade if you want.”

I did just that, modifying my SMGs so they could be slightly more acreate so not to waste so much ammo before I looked down and smiled. I pulled out the music player on the ground and grinned. “I got a song just in mind, that is if you don’t mind?”

“Go on. It’s just bring the undead bastards that much closer to our line of fire.” Josh grinned.

I couldn’t help but grin wider as I pressed play. I started to bob my head before I practically kicked open the door. “Lets have some fun.”

The first week was nonstop undead bloodshed. I killed those three tanks at the end of the Passing… WITH A CRICKET BAT! It was amazing. And that isn’t even mentioning the upgrades to my sidearm. Seriously, this thing is a BEAST now! Hell, if I transferred all of them to a Desert Eagle, the gun would probably punch through nearly anything, without spiral nuke rounds. Which, after a moment of consideration, is exactly what I did.

“Now then, you’ve taken to gunfighting.” Josh said, the two of us standing in the Mall area. We cleared it completely of undead.

“Well, I guess so. It just feels natural, but not nearly as much as dual wielding swords. Meh, must be because of how long I had Oath and Oblivion.” I shrugged

“Now then, being a Ventral is more than just about blowing up stuff and shooting everything in sight. It’s out back up plan. Primarily, we sneak.” Josh said, a portal opening behind her. “Through here is a maze of my making. You can not get spotted. Each level of the maze has a different objective to do. Got it?”

I nodded with a mental sigh. “Alright. Weapons or no?” I asked as I placed my hands behind my head in a relaxed manner.

“You’ll use what you get.” Josh said. “Now go on, time to feel like a sneaky bastard.”

“Always wanted to be sly cooper.” I said with a chuckle before I entered the portal, ready for whatever the Authors thought Josh would put into a maze.

As I entered the portal closed. I was in a room with a table, one door, and a single light above me. I picked up the note.

Behind that door is the first maze. There is a dozen rooms, each with Oathkeeper in them. When you look at them through under the door, opening it, and through the keyhole they will look like your keyblade. They will all act and sound like your Keyblade. Only one IS your Keyblade. Sneak your way to find the true Oathkeeper.
-Josh
-PS: Your mom and I have been-

And cutting it off there cause of the rest of the page, front half and back of fetishes… jesus dad… But with a groan I pocketed it… Shy, Lulu and Dash would never forgive me if they didn’t read it…. Anyways, So I need to find the True Oath without getting caught. This is going to be interesting to say the least.

I opened the door. A small hallway with twelve doors was shown to me. Now, which is Oath? And how to tell if they are all identical? ...Gods I’m an Idiot. Time to try something. I crouched in a corner before taking a breath, focusing on what my heart is saying rather than my eyes…. Nothing. Of course it wouldn't be that simple. I groaned before walking over to the seventh Door. “Behind Lucky number seven….”

I walked up to the second door. Opening it, I saw Oathkeeper. Didn’t hear here. Likely not allowed to… how to tell if this is the real one? I’m almost scared to touch it. Carefully as to not trip any alarms, I used my eyes to examine it. having wielded Oath for so long, I have her Keyblade form memorized, right down to the slight ‘scar’ on her from when she got dented.

The ‘scar’ was on her length. This had it, the slight sent, the one missed flaw from her repair. It had it, but do the others? “There has to be a trick to this.”

I left the room with a glance back to the keyblade to check at least one of the others. Damn, they have it too… shit, what’s the trick? Wait, this is about stealth… how does… I left the door open, and turned around. I slowly turned my head some, just so the corner of my eye saw it… a Starlight. I have to observe without making it look like I am looking! I grinned, Silently thanking Bio, knowing Lancerot definitely wouldn't have cut me some slack before checking the rooms one by one to find her.

I opened the doors, checking the corner of my eye and seeing Starlights, til I arrived at the ninth door… Oath? Without looking, I grabbed it.

”Oh Eclipse! You’re still human… and did you get more muscular? Wait a minute are those GUNS?!” Yup, good old Mama Oathkeeper.

‘I missed you too mother.’ I said mockingly ‘You alright?’ I added seriously.

”Aside from Cript throwing me on a couch while I was kept from you and leaving the TV on Fox not too bad. Though I’d rather not dare say what your Father...Mother Josh USED me for… You might want to wash me in bleach...for a year…”

‘....I think I’m gonna kill her, wait for her to revive, just to kill her again.’ I said in a voice of realization before chuckling. ‘Come on, if you’re here, Oblivion can’t be far behind.’

”Hopefully.”

Another portal opened behind me. This one I entered and was met by a door and note.

Here in this maze you’ll find Oblivion. The trick here is that he is safeguarded by a vault. You must take him from the vault without opening it.

For a joke, I tried to simply summon him to my hands. “Nope. Welp, time to figure this out the hard way, huh Oath?” I said with a smile, unable to see the red glint in my eye as I walked down the corridor seemingly without a care in the world, But Oath knows me better. I’m trying to see what kind of security I’ll need to deal with.

Once I opened the door I saw this looked…. Like a bank. Holographic guards all over the place, cameras, lazers, alarm triggers everywhere… and I am on the roof? Huh, Oh hey another note.

Colin, this is an exact replica of my first ever bank I robbed blind.
-Josh

“Because of course it is.” I said with a chuckle before closing my eyes taking a deep breath,

And changing the view. “Oath, I know you can take pony know thanks to Cript, can you take a human you think?” I asked the Keyblade in a dead serious tone, my brain going hyper with plans of entrance, exit, and all counting on going unseen.

”No Idea. I can see if stop or sleep spells work on these… false people.”

“Worth I try. Alright, let’s see if this works…” I said before throwing her in the air, my heart connected to hers and asking for it to take a human shape, or at least, that’s the hope here. Up to the Authors on whether or not this totally bullshit plan works but hey, you guys came to read this shit. Deal with it.

She did not turn human, but she turned pony. Fuck you too guys! “Sigh. It was too much to hope for. Alright, Oath come back, time to brainstorm.” I said trying to resummon her

“Actually, this gives me an idea.” Oath said, staying pony. “Compared to Equin buildings, I’m small enough to fit into vents. I might be able to sneak in and find you an entrance.”

“Nice job Oath, that's a good plan. But remember, if you think you’re about to get caught, do you’re whole disappear thing before that. Your safety is just as important as me not getting caught if we want to get Oblivion.” I spoke.

“Of course. Welp, I’ll be back one way or another.”

I nodded before walking over to a vent and strait up tearing off the cover. “In you go.” I said, helping her in as I used my vantage point to try and memorize guard routes.

“EEYP!” She yelped, falling into the vent. “That was my flank you grabbed!” She huffed before I could hear her moving slowly in them.

I laughed “Anytime sweet cheeks.” I responded, knowing she knows I mean nothing by it. Now before I go too off track, back to studying.

The guards where observing all of the floor area, and the cameras had a wider frame of view.

’Eclipse, can you hear me?’ Oath asked me. Forgot out Telepathy thing.

‘Yeah, I hear you, what’s up?’ I thought back, still watching the guards.

’I found the inside of the safe, and I see brother. He’s leaning against the wall aside a LOT of gold bars… it’s all gold bars and coming in here. What is this a Pirate's bank?’

I opened my mouth before closing it and leaning over the edge to confirm that question… THIS IS FUCKING FORT KNOX!!! ‘Worse…. Fort Fucking KNox.

’That place from your old world where your nation held all it’s gold? Your father robbed THIS place blind?’

‘Apparently.’ I sighed ‘When I get home, I am sending the kids to bed, and breaking into my stash of Sweet Apple Acre Hard cider. I’ll even let you try some.’

’That sounds lovely. Now then, how to get in here. More importantly, how to get you in here?’

‘I… I’ll figure something out, but we need to not get caught, then not open the vault to get Oblivion.’

’Damn, if brother was here he could help in that. He has a rarely known about ability to open and create pocket… Eclipse, do you still have that Assistant of your on your arm?’

I glanced down, constantly forgetting I have that thing. ‘Yessss?’

’Cript said it stores items by converting them into data. I can use to retrieve brother, if it reaches enough.’

‘Worth a try, but we still need to get me close.’

’Hmm… I’m coming back, I have an idea.’ Oath said, crawling her way to up here. She fell out the vent with a huff. “Well, that hurt.” She huffed getting back up.

“You’ll be fine. So, what’s the idea you got?” I asked. “Because in about 2 minutes 30 a guard is going to turn corner A-D and chatt to his buddy for exactly 42 second before deciding to be the one guard that looks up, and we will need to make ourselves flat during that time to avoid sighting.”

“Let me see your Assistant.” She asked, as I kneeled down to her level. She took it and was messing with it for a bit. “Ah, this might be it.” She clicked something and HOLY FUCK I’M FIVE INCHES TALL. “This thing can do anything can’t it?” She asked, her now massive by comparison size booming to me now.

“What the fuck Oath!” I said in a cartoonishly high pitched voice. “Oh mother fucker!”

“Sorry, but it’s the only way to get you inside. I left the shrink option open on your Assistent so once you slide through the vent you can grow back to normal and grab brother.”

“Sigh. At least it’s not like I’m forgetting something obvious about it that some of the others have been using.” I said before turning to look at the screen. “Like that would ever happen… right Lance? Bio?” I said with a single eye twitch before going back to the job at hand. “Alright, get me in there.”

Oath put me on her head, which from this view everything looked kinda cool. Once inside the vent and some crawling, we made it to the vent that that Oblivion. Damn, there is a lot of gold here… right, Fort Knocks. Once I slid in and dropped down, I managed to walk over, still tiny, and grabbed Oblivion, who once I touched him, shrunk to fit my tiny grip. ”Holy Shit you are tiny!”

“Blame your sister.” I said with a chuckle. “Now… how to get out….” I said, looking around for an escape, hopefully without tripping any alarms.

”Uh, this.” Oblivion said, raiding himself up in my grip and opening a DTL. ”Sis, get your ass down here!”

Oathkeeper appeared in my other hand. ”No need for vulgar language brother.”

“No arguing now.” I said, tossing them into the air as the formed into my wing gliders before opening a DTL. “Let’s get out of here.”

The DTL exited us in… The Dark Margin? “Okay then, I figured we would need to travel to the realm of darkness eventually but not immediately… I wonder if Core kept the original Sora’s heart…” I said to myself as I turned the keyblades back into their normal blade form.

From the way the sand looked it looks as if someone else was here just earlier...wonder who? Taking a seat where they sat, I looked up at the moon in this area. Wonder why this place has a moon? Meh, I don’t know, so I don’t think the authors know. Not like it mattered really. So, moving off from the random thoughts, I started to follow the markings in the sand.

They stopped at the water, where a deep imprint, like something heavy or something that appeared suddenly. They stopped at the line in the sand before the water. I looked up, the moon in the sky...began to darken, and formed a black heart with a Keyhole over it.

Reacting on instinct, I raised both Oath and Oblivion, ready to lock, or unlock whatever this heart was. “Guys, what do you think?” I asked, not doing anything just yet.

”Wait.” Oblivion said, him and Oath shifting into their X-blade form. ”Now fire!”

I nodded before reaching into my heart, gathering both my light and darkness before firing the beam into the keyhole to see what would happen. ‘One of these days that curiosity will get me killed.’ I sighed.

The beam fired, and the Keyhole unlocked. Darkness pooled out and wrapped itself around me, dragging me deeper into it. Once it sunk my head in, I was suddenly in what looked like a Photo Negative of the Realm of Darkness… whole place is so bright it’s almost hard to look at.

“Alright, what did I do to piss of Mr. Negative?” I said, chuckling at my marvel reference as I tried to look for anything NOT Negative just to relax my eyes.

I had to walk around for a while, looking here and there before finding a building. It’s inside was so dark, not blindingly bright. I ran inside. Once in I let my eyes rest. They began to adjust to the dark...that’s when I noticed the eyes… Yellow, Heartless eyes. As my eyes adjusted, I saw...The Dark Guardian.

“Oh. Why hello there.” I said with my signature grin. “Alright, you here to fight? If so, you really should have taken advantage of my delirium just a moment ago.”

It shook it’s head, pointing up. Above I saw images of… Zeke, Diamond Tiara… Xehanort? Weren't they all killed? And lastly John. These must be all the people that can call him.

“So, those who you are bonded to? What about them?” I asked, no longer as tense as I was earlier.

It raised it’s hand, a chain and cuffs where on them. The chains reached up to the images above, linking it to them more physically them expected.

“... You’re a slave.” I said, my heart going out for the Guardian.

He shook his head. He showed me his cuffs came off, but he prefers to keep them on… slave by choice?

“So, you want to be tied to the darkness of others?” I guessed. What, I never learned sign language, not like the guardian is using it.

Again, he shook his head. This time, he raised up his other hand. An image of Unum...I saw this, this is when she was escaping with her daughter. It showed her, and her babies heart, both glowing with a strong light, and Unum’s with an equal darkness...then he appeared, surfacing out from Unum’s heart. Was...that how he was created?

“That's why you are called Guardian… You were made to watch over Unum’s descendants.” I said

He gave me a look that said I had half the answer. He then showed me Zeke, John, Diamond Tiara, and Terranort. Each then showed the light and darkness in their hearts. Zeke’s was equal, Johns darkness, and Tiara’s where dominant, and Terranort had one heart of pure darkness, as well as Terra’s darkness and the little light that is Terra’s.

It suddenly clicked. “You link to those who are at risk of falling, letting their darkness consume them.”

He nodded.

“And you are telling me why? You don’t want people to fall to darkness or something?”

He nodded.

I sighed. “I get it now. You don’t want me to fall. But… I can make it work. I want Light and dark to put aside the age old quarrel and work towards something, possibly even create something neither thought possible.” I looked him straight into his heartless eyes. “Don't tell me you’ve never thought of the war finally ending.”

He looked at me, then pointed outside. Looking, I saw another building like this one. Almost an exact copy.

“What’s over there, looks the same as this building.” I said, my eyes squinting at the brightness of the Negative ground outside.

He motioned for me to go and see. Nodding. I squinted my eyes, heading over. In this building, I found… Kingdom Key D? What’s this doing here?

’Who seeks my power?’ It spoke, it’s voice like a faint whisper.

‘I suppose me, however I seek both darkness and light.’ I responded, used to talking in my head due to Oath and Oblivion.

’Darkness and light. The two can not be more different, yet they are just both parts of the same thing. Meaningless efforts trying to extinguish one or the other. Too many fools. Too many failures.’

‘I agree. I am striving for not balance, but peace between the two eternal enemies.’ I said to the keyblade.

’Such old wounds can never be mended. Not in this reality. Two enemies, born from the same heart. Such stupidity, fighting over this existence like it’s true self did oh so long ago. History repeats itself in the most ironic of ways.’

‘Then look at my heart.’ I said, letting my forces flow out of me, my light and darkness working together. ‘I have made the first steps. Peace is possible.’

’You walk balance, like many before you. But to truly find peace, the two must rejoin, as they were in the beginning. Not light, dark or even nothing. But grey. The simple grey of our birth before the split to light and dark.’

I looked into my heart as I took D’s words. ‘...Do you think it is possible to create the grey once more? To show the light and the dark of what they once were?’

’Anything is possible in this reality we exist in. In truth it if infinite but it’s rigged to be finite. Our creation, in total makes up barely a blink of how massive we could expand. Find the one one who fought in the first ever war. Find the last survivor of old, and learn the truth about the lost true form of our hearts.’

‘Any hint as to where to find them?’ I asked, wanting to recreate the gray.

’I know not his name, but I know his race. Admin, the oldest of his race.

‘The oldest admin?... I’ll need to ask Cript later. Thank you for you time, Kingdom Key of Darkness.’ I said, showing respect for the old blade.

’Think not of it. Like the guardian over there we exist here to avoid the conflicts of our reality unless needed or called upon. This Negative reality our escape from the war and suffering of the realms of light and dark.’

‘I hope that I am successful, so to slowly start the process of true peace.’ I said, starting to cut off my connection to the blade.

I left, heading off and looking for a way out of here. God’s, this place is so bright. I get it is a safe haven for those two so they can get away but holy shit. I groaned as I wandered the negative realm of darkness.

Looking around I saw a DTD open up before me. Turning around I saw the Dark Guardian there. Must have given me my way out. “Hey thanks.” I said to him with a smile. “I hope one day you no longer need to worry about those you’ve grown to care for.” I said, now knowing a bit more about the dark figure.

I entered the DTL, and wondered where I’ll be heading next.

I found myself… This is Ponyville but...something isn’t right… Everypony is naga. “Hi Eclipse!” I turned around, seeing mom there. BOTH Moms! And Josh!

“Hey everyone, so, this is your Equestria?” I asked Mama Gleaming

“Yup.” Gleaming said. “Figured you’d want to see how my world is similar and different from your Equis.”

“Heh, I guess this is more of dad trying to get me to relax.” I chuckles. “Alright, so, where to?” I asked my parents.

“Well first I figured we all could go on a tour of Canterlot.” Mom said. “I know you already grew up there but the differences and similarities might give you some welcome nostalgia and curiosity.”

“Huh, sure. It’d be interesting anyways, I haven't been in Canterlot for a while.” I said, putting my hands behind my head.

“Come on, the train is gonna leave soon.”

We hopped on the train and I decided to talk with them all, asking questions of whatever popped into my head. To all of them.

“So.. How has everyone been? Oh and Josh, Fort Knox, really?”

Josh laughed. “Hey, my old man was ruthless. I robbed Fort Knox, and little bro blew up Area 51. Dad was ruthless.”

“We’ve been getting along pretty great.” Mama Gleaming said.

“Josh and I have been rekindling that first part.” Mom said, wrapping an arm around Josh. “And adding Gleaming to the mix has made life all the more interesting.” Man, I am used to Gleaming as a Lamia but seeing mom and Josh as them too is almost surreal.

“So, how long did it take you two to get used to a naga body?” I asked

“Josh here took the longest.” Gleaming said. “But your mom got her used to it with some… special training~” They all chuckled… oh god...

“Alright, can we please keep the bedroom talk to the minimal? We have young readers.” I chuckled to hide my internal screaming.

“Well anyway, seems your training has been doing well.” Mom said. “I bet it’s strange, seeing me after I… well, you know…”

“Well… yeah… I had almost forgotten what you looked like to be honest…” I admitted. “But, I’ve learned to just accept things for as they are, good or bad. It’s how I can out 4th wall break Pinkie after all.” I smiled. “Got that from you after all mom.”

She chuckled. “So, how’s your family?” Josh asked.

“Well, Scootaloo has been just amazing with Dive Wing. She is well on her way, and I have no doubt she will become one of the youngest keyblade masters out there. Pura is a gem, if I didn't know any better I would say she was a princess of heart with how pure she is. Gerald and Greka are still distant, but they are slowly warming up to the others. Chicken Chaser, that colt… I can’t get a read on him. Anything I throw at him, while at first he is terrible, he learns way to quick to be normal, and that’s from me. Xena has been hanging out with Spike more often, but it’s probably just to see another dragon. Cutting has been training with Scoots every chance those two get. Verum… That kid needs to learn. He has so much potential, and he waistes it with his racism and just argantcy. Morphia and Sciath have always been close, but now they are a thick as thieves. Shy, Dash and Lulu were fine last I say them, the later two far along in their pregnancy.”

“Rivaling your cousins own young master huh? Heh, I would love to see that day.” Josh said.

“I bet you would.” I smiled before taking a drink of water. “What about you all? Anything interesting happening?”

“Other than this relationship, nothing too big.” Gleaming said. “Despite who we are all married to life as one of Cript’s wives is boring. Sex is good, but it can get boring at times.”

“Then why not go out and do something?” I ask “I mean, you have all of the multiverse to explore, why not take your children and maybe a few others and just go world hopping, see new sites, live life?”

“We do, but at a certain point it all falls into a been there-done that kind of deal.”

“Then make it not so.” I said, my smirk on my face and eyes aflame “Life is what you make of it. If something is burning, all it takes is for you to have another view, maybe create something. If everything is boring and not worth it, then there is no point to continue. And I don’t know about you, but I play life to win. So, ready player one?”

“Hey, that movie isn’t out yet in this timeline.” Mom commented.

“In any case we do what we can to keep entertained. We mostly end up in the nursery to look after the babies. Never a dull moment there.” Gleaming chuckled.

“I bet. I just know the new kids are gonna give me sleepless nights when they are born.” I laughed.

“Warm milk… and a sleeping spell for when they get restless isn’t cheating.” The three of them said and laughed.

“Besides, I have Luna and Night for when they start to get nightmares….heh.” I said, chuckling at the thought of Nightmare Moon banishing nightmares.

“I can imagine. Speaking of, you have any lately?” Mom asked. “We know about this second war, and a lot is riding on it.”

“Well… Not really… I’ve been training nonstop so to protect the girls and the kids, Training to catch up to the others. John, Ben, Zeke, the Foretellers, all of them are powerful and unique. The only power I have is being a timeline anomaly and being stubborn as hell.” I sighed. “I don’t want any of my kids to go through the coming war, but I made the mistake of giving them all keyblades. I don’t want to lose any of them, even if I have to die for it to be so.”

“I’m sure it will all work out.” Josh said. “Not only are you Cript’s son, but also mine. You’re a Ventral, our family thrives in warzones. You’ll do well.”

“Thanks Josh.” I said with a small smile. “But yeah, to answer your question mom, not for nearly a month, two if you count how long it takes the authors to put out a single chapter for me.”

The tour of the city was impressive. So many memories and differences. The tour ended with a visit the the museum, one of Twilight’s favorite places, and I saw how this worlds Equines evolved into naga ponies. Huh… well that’s different. Reptile ancestor evolving into mammalian species… just mammal ancestors back home.

“Well this was enlightening.” I said after our tour.

“Yeah, who know biology science could be fun.” Josh said.

“Well, Eclipse… this is where we say goodbye for a while…” Mama Gleaming said, she, Mom and Josh looking saddened.

“Hey, why the long faces?” I said with a smile. “I know what is going to happen soon. You all, Twilight, many people will become one. But it’s not like I will never see you again, you’ll just look different is all.”

“Well, we will be able to speak with you as ourselves.” Mom said, Josh handing me a box.

“After Cript’s plan is put into action, put these out. One day we’ll say hi.” Josh said, giving me a hug. “And here.” She said, giving me two handguns. “These handguns I’ve had since I was your age… figured it’s time they are given to someone who will be able to use them more than I will.”

I looked down at them and smiled before looking up at Josh. “You know, I really wish I had met you before this whole reality in danger stuff… I feel like we would have made quite a few memories.”

“I wish I met your before I played a part in it.” Josh laughed.

“Here.” Mama Gleaming said, giving me a shield with her/Shining’s cutie mark, though, this one has a snake wrapped around the design. “Something I made for you. It might be different than your usual dual wielding, but remember defence is just as important as offence.” She said.

I smiled at it. “Hey, this way when I use my X, I can still feel two things in my hands. Besides, the spartans were the most badass warriors on earth, and they used the shield just as much as a weapon as a defence.” I gave Mama Gleaming a hug. “Sorry I didn’t spend more time with you.”

“And this is from Cript and me.” Mom said, handing me a sheathed sword. “You earned your Humanity blade. With this sword, only the unsavable will be harmed, and all who can be saved shall be. A weapon that only harms evil.”

I took the weapon and held it. “I feel like it is not for me to decide who is evil and good, but it never hurts to have a back up.” I said, the insanity inside of me confused as to why the blade doesn’t hurt.

“Well, looks like this is by for now.” Josh said.

“I… guess so…” I said, unable to halt the single, red and blue tear trailing down my face.

They all gave me a hug. “You got this kid.” Josh said.

“We’ll be seeing you again someday, just sadly not someday soon.” Gleaming said.

“And remember, we all love you. With all our hearts.” Mom said, everything fading white as I felt them...less and less. When the light ended and I no longer felt their touch… I was back home, in the living room.

“In you and I… There's a new land…” I started to sing, unable to stop the aching in my heart.

“Dad!” I was tackled to the ground by a flying orange chicken snake! Scootaloo got a bit bigger… and she can break my ribs now, OUCH!

I grunted in pain. “Hey squirt, I’m back.” I weazed out

“Oh you were gone for a long long time this time!” She squeezed me more…. Authors have mercy!

Thank you!

After Scoots had calmed down enough to let me go she flew out the door to round up all the others… including her mothers…. Oh boy.

“So, you were gone for a while this time around.” Luna spoke. She and Shy were… no longer pregnant… a year… a whole...freaking year…

“Oh by all the stars…” I said, now miserable. “Girls… I know there is no excuse. I wanted to be back, at least in time to be there for you. I got so caught up in trying to get stronger, trying to become the guardian for you all… I guess I lost sight of what made the fight worth it.” I sighed. “Luna, Rainbow, Flutters… can you all forgive me?”

They looked at me sternly for a while… then grew smiles. “Eclipse, we aren’t mad.” Fluttershy said.

“We know about this war and junk you have to focus on and put up with.” Rainbow said.

“We are just happy as long as you return home.” Luna finished. “That and a year of dildoes and toungues gets old when we were used to your dick… Hell Wolf and his herd now have nine kids and added two more mares to his herd.” She had to add.

“He is probably pissed that I suddenly left him inside a station of awakening.” I chuckled

“He got over that. He did take a job as a Keyblade smith and repair worker after…”

I felt a small spark of dread at that pause. “After what? What happened while I was gone?”

“...Daybreak is gone Eclipse.” Fluttershy said. “The whole world… someone invaded, the Crystal heart was shattered and… it blew up, to keep the waves of heartless from dragging it into the darkness, into Kexez’s hands. While the Government is still running strong… the world itself is gone, and no one has heard from Zeke or his family since then.”

I felt a mix of everything at that moment, my dark, light, insanity and humanity all reacting at once as I felt… Everything. I took a few breaths to try and calm down, black, white, red and blue energy pooling off me slowly fading with each breath. “At least you all are safe.” I said once the energy had faded, all my powers now directed at the one who threatened… and possibly harmed my cousin's family.

“WIthout Daybreak their people where sent to worlds that were connected with them. A fair amount came here and set up the Keyblade forges. At first there was some tension it’s faded now since Heartless have been springing up regularly but the extra Keyblades and wielders in training are keeping them at bay.” Luna said.

“Damn it all….” I sighed, resting my face in one of my hands. “I really did lose sight.” I say to myself, thanking small stars none of the girls noticed my new build and scars as I looked out the window. Scoots and the other kids were all outside, playing and training, but I knew they were all eager to see me again. “So, what did you name them?” I asked, referring to the three infants.

“Fluttershy had a boy. We named him Josh, after your father. I had a girl. Star Charge. You might wanna come see her and a boy. Eclipse jr.”

“Wait, I’m a senior now?” I asked “Didn’t expect that one. I’ll see them later today… Hopefully they like their dad who is never home…” I said, unable to keep the guilty tone out of my voice.

“Well jr can wait but Star…” There was a loud crash upstairs. “Not again…” We all bolted upstairs… There, I saw the nursery… and a little filly in diapers, my mane and eyes, Luna’s coat… on a Keyblade glider?! “Star… disband that...now.”

“Bababudu…” She muttered in baby, the glider disbanding as… a Wayward wind Keyblade dropped with her. Luna caught the unicorn naga foal in her magic, and the filly grabbed her keyblade in her magic, and began gnawing on the blade. “As you can see… she summoned it not two days after her birth…”

“Heh, trying to show up her old man.” I said, my red eyes looking at the youngest keyblade wielder that isn't a keyblade I know. “Hey little star.” I said, my voice and tone soft as a feather.

She looked at me with starry eyes… then sneased, a Fire spell cast from her keyblade shot me point blank in my chest and knocked me over. She then proceeded to giggle.

I groaned as I sat back up. “Now now, as much as that was cool, it’s not alright to cast fire in a wood building little one.” I said before whispering in her ear. “At least when moms are around.” I said, pulling away with a grin despite my scorched chest.

“Heard that.” Luna said. “I don’t even know how this happened. Or that this was even possible.”

“Oh it’s possible, just not common… it means that she is destined to do something with her life, something great.” I said with as smile. “As if there were any doubts.” I looked back at her and smiled. I felt worse…. But also better seeing her. I missed her birth, but here she is, something I helped to father.

“But isn’t a ceremony or something meant to happen first?”

“Not all the time. Sometimes a keyblade simply chooses a wielder, sometimes it goes to a different wielder instead of the one it was meant for during crisis situations.” I said. “Heck, I had no ceremony and I have oath, Oblivion, and now my own X-blade.”

“Still, this whole thing is...strange.”

I kissed her cheek. “It may be, but as long as my heart exists, I will never let anything happen to my family.”

“Well...guess we’ll just have to make sure she can control her summoning it. So young and with a weapon… dear stars already we messed up as parents cause our foal has a weapon… and it’s one we can’t even take away, it will just return to her.”

“Hey, Oath, Oblivion, can you help out here?” I asked, summoning them before turning them into their pony forms so Luna, Shy and Dash could hear them.

“What’s the issue?” Oath asked.

“Yeah, I was napping.” Oblivion complained.

“Can you two talk too Wayward? He kinda chose my daughter while she is an infant.” I asked them. “Oh and sorry about the nap Oblivion.”

“Well, I’ll try.” Oath said, touching Wayward. The conversation seeming to be between it and her only. “Oh my…” She said letting go of the Keyblade. “It seems it followed the heart of it’s last wielder into your daughter. It’s last wielder was reborn as Star.”

“So my universe’s Ventus was reborn as star.” I said, looking down at her and Wayward. “Wayward, I can respect that. I only ask that you keep her safe and out of trouble when none of us are around, okay?” I said to the keyblade.

It flashed. “He says of course, that is a Keyblades job after all.” Oath translated.

“Well there we go.” I said, turning to Luna with a smile. “Just think of Wayward as a brother from another family looking after his favorite sibling. Hell, I think of Oath and Oblivion as if they are my own siblings, quirks and all.”

“Well, alright then.” Luna said.

I wrapped my tail around Luna and gave a soft squeeze. “Besides, this way she is ready for when boy’s pressure her into prom sex. Older brother will be there to cut off their manhood, however small it is.”

“Assuming you won’t be there first.” Luna quipped, giving me a light kiss before placing star back in her crib.

I looked at her and brushed some hair out of her face as I looked at her. To be honest, I was afraid that anything I do would break her, but I knew if I was a threat Luna wouldn't let me be within 1000 feet of the child. “So.. What about John and Jr.?”

Fluttershy showed me Josh. My coat, her eyes and mane, but with a purple stripe like mine. Jr looked a LOT like me, the only difference was his mane was dark blue like Luna’s.

“Wow, no wonder you named him Jr.” I said looking at the boys.

“Yeah. Seemed fitting.” Luna said. “So…” She said.

“So…?” I asked, wondering what she wanted to say.

“So, while we aren’t mad we do have a punishment in mind~” Luna said. “You have been gone a whole year…”

“We’re gonna make you sore inside and out.” Fluttershy said in an innocent tone of voice that somehow added a whole creep and fear factor of its own.

“Dash?” I asked, turning to her, hoping for some mercy.

“We developed some new fetishes while you were out. Expect nightmares from what we have in store.” She said so coldly.

Oh Bio, Lance, I hate you both. I gulped. “Hopefully the kids understand why they need to wait another week…”

I have Experiance Points?

View Online

I cracked my eyes open with the sun streaming in. I groaned softly, thankful for Cript otherwise my bones would have been turned to dust due to last night. I looked around me to see the Griffon that is Rainbow Dash, The alicorn princess of the night, and the most terrifying “meek” pegasus to exist. And I love each and every one of them. Pretty sure they’re all knocked up… Struggling I managed to crawl, literally, out of bed. I don’t even wanna know what they did when I passed out after so long.

I managed to get back up and washed my face off. The cold water waking me up some. My hair, or is it still mane? Eh, it was a mess, my head to the very end of my tail was covered in dark blue, green and pink smooch lipstick marks, and… I have wet panites tied on my arm… WHEN DID THAT HAPPEN?!

I start the grueling process of cleaning up… all 20 feet of me… when did my tail grow another four feet? Gods why… Anyways I got cleaned up enough to go down stairs without it being in anyone’s face that I had no sleep the previous night before heading down stairs.

I started up the coffee maker and was waiting for it to pour out the caffeine filled liquid. In that time I saw Scootaloo rush in, grab something from the fridge and was about to run out before I stopped her. ”Hey Scoots, what you doing today?” I asked, wanting to start reconnecting to my kids.

She skidded to a halt. I swear I heard the sound tires make when they do that. “Oh, I’m uh… gonna hang out with Applebloom and Sweetie Belle! Yeah! That! Anyway, later dad, by!” She said, zooming out leaving only a dust silhouette of herself before it fell into a pile of dirt on the ground.

I chuckled, knowing either A, she has something planned for me, B, she got a boytoy (Meaning it’ll be time to show why you don’t become a threat to my little girl….) or C she is up to more trouble with the Crusaders yet again. I took a sip of my coffee as I slithered on over to the door to look outside into the morning light.

Wow… Ponyville...changed. The old dirt roads where now paved with patches of open ground for grass and trees, flowers and bushes. Lights for the street lines both sides of the road. There was even a few electrical lines connecting to each of the houses.

“Holy shit… when did Equestria have a industrial revolution?” I questioned out loud as I stared in awe, only breaking it to take drinks from my cup.

As I slithered back inside I noticed things that definitely where not here before. A tv, not a classic box, a MASSIVE flatscreen. Energy spiral light bulbs… a wi-fi router? Huh, I’ll ask for the password later. Shrugging, I decided to turn on the tv. The news mostly talked about weather and such simple things.

“At least this world has been mostly safe… mostly.” I said with a small smile as I decided to see if there were any other changes to the house.

Other than electrical outlets, light bulbs and switches, nothing much seemed different. Finishing my coffee I headed outside, leaving a note on the kitchen table saying I was taking a tour of Ponyville’s changed.

Strolling around I saw a lot of familiar faces, each waving and saying hi to me as I came along. I spotted a shop. “Keyblades Till Dawn” the shop had a chimney pumping smoke and smelled of hot metal, the sign a snake wielding Oblivion in it’s mouth… Wolf?

I slithered in, nervous, especially since I now know Wolf’s past and… honestly I want to see my brother again. As I entered I was greeted with a store that showed me barrels of Starlights, glass displays of stronger, even rare keyblades, and the display case with the cash register on it held a mix of Keychains for Keyblades and scrolls. It looks like he’s done well for himself. I smiled, subtly summoning Oath and Oblivion so they can have a chat with the keyblades as I walked up to the register and rang the bell.

Who entered was Nightmare Moon. “Hello, welcome to Keyblades Till… hehe… About time you showed up.” The former demon of the night said, walking up to the display case with the register and placing her two front hooves onto it. “So, where have you been?”

“All over space, time and the multiverse, you know, the usual.” I said with my signature grin and a roll of the eyes. “How’s the kids?”

“Hooffulls.” She laughed. “But worth it. Shy and I both had TRIPLETS.” She said. “Our new additions Roseluck had twins and Amethyst had a little filly. So, nine kids. Four moms and one dad, we are outnumbered but compared to you lot, we got off lucky.”

“Ha, I guess so.” I laughed. “Do you know where wolf is? Haven't seen the guy since we got forcibly split up.”

“He’s in the forge outback. You wanna see him? Be careful, it’s a mess in the backroom.”

“Don’t worry, I won't break anything.” I said with a smile before I turned to my keyblades. “You two want to stay and chat, or coming with?”

”I think coming along will be fun.”

”Yeah, why not.”

I grabbed them both and headed into the backroom. Boxes and barrels and raw ores and synthesis materials where everywhere. Carefully I moved passed them all and managed to get outside. Here the heat was massively warm, but to me it felt...rather nice. Here I saw the entire ground was stone, and in the center was a glowing forge of light and darkness. Around were crates with raw materials, and Wolf ‘stood’ tail wrapped around the forge as he worked it… however long he’s been doing this, it gave him some muscles he did not have before. Hell, that hammer… has a Keychain? No way...

“You forged a fricken Keyhammer?!” I said in shock. “I knew you had talent but holy hell brother.”

Wolf turned around. Upon seeing me he smiled, and grabbed me in a big -AND THERE GOES MY RIBS! “Ha! So the lost boy of Neverland finally comes home huh?” He said, my rib cage collapsing completely as he let go.

I groaned in pain. “First Scoots, then my girls all night, then you? God My family is abusive.” I chuckled before wincing. “Yeah, laughing hurts.”

“Heh, sorry.” He said, scratching the back of his head. “So, where have you been?”

“One word. Cript. I was gone through time, space, dimensions. Hell isn’t a bad place to hang out.” I informed him. “I even got to meet Core before… before he lost unum. Even got the two together.”

“Oh...Oh wow… that’s something. Heh, well while you were off playing Doctor Who, everyone here pretty much started moving on with life. After you vanished another chest appeared. I got an old series of texts, predating the Keyblade war. Recipes for forging, reinforcing, customizing Keyblades. As well as scrolls that teach you things like Strike Raid, Ars Arcanum, Mega Flare. The works. I also got this.” He showed me the Keyhammer. “It’s called Forgeres Honor. It was created to create Keyblades, but it’s series was few and lost after the Keyblade War, since it’s meant to be a tool, not a weapon.”

“Sad, but at least you got it right?” I said with a small smile. “Oh and I gave the other X away to John.”

“With those things I made this shop after Daybreak Fell. These methods were in small pieces, only a volume or two that was salvaged from Daybreak’s libraries before it fell. I made a living repairing and reinforcing Keyblades, and making them was something not well learned before. And I see you got Oath and Oblivion with you. Care for a tune up? On me.”

“Up to them.” I said, summoning them out.

”Oh I could so use an upgrade, finally give you an edge in a fight.”

”A nice spa day sounds lovely.”

“The Keys have it.” I joked before handing them off, a bit hesitant. As much as from what Oath said it is basically a spa for them, it still didn't sit right handing them off to another, trusted or not.

Wolf took them carefully and placed them both into the light and dark fires. Both Oath and Oblivion sighed like resting in a hot tub. I watched Wolf work. A year or less at this and his work was careful and still. As he hammered away Oath and Oblivion seemed to enjoy the treatment. Wolf placed them both into the ‘fires’ again before slithering off, grabbing some materials and slithering back, tossing them into the fire.

“If you ever need material, I still have 99 of everything.” I commented casually as to not break his concentration.

“I think I’m good.” Wolf said, pulling out Oath and Oblivion, those tossed in materials making the two glow a bright, bright red as Wolf quickly began his hammering. I could feel the magic in these hits working itself into my weapons and friends. When it was over the two flashed, that red no longer on them and… they changed.

Oath now had chains of light in her in between space of her blade, and her tip now held a faint glow of blue and yellow. The ‘wings’ of her handguards where larger, more pronounced. Oblivion’s chains on it’s center part of it’s blade where now purple rather than black. His entire blade now had teeth like barbs along it’s blade. His tip looked a bit more Key like but it also had a small black crown at the very top. His handguards didn’t change that much, aside form a slight purple and gold trim on the edges.

“Nice makeover you two.” I complemented.

I feel like a million munny...

I’ve never been so relaxed in forever...

“I gave them an upgrade. Now Oath also deals higher critical damage and physical damage and while Oblivion deals higher magic damage now to, your mana recharge rate will be a bit slower.” Wolf said.

I shrugged. “Not worried. Oh and can you use Scan on me? Want to know how high my hp and mp are now after all that training.”

“You can just look on your Assistant… you know that, right?”

“....You can?” I said. “I honestly never use this thing unless it is to store items.”

Wolf rolled his eyes. He then grabbed the arms, and made me watch as he navigated the Profile options and selected Abilities. “These are all the abilities and such you learned but knowing you either forgot about or didn’t know you had.”

I took a look and did a double take. HOW MANY FUCKING UNSPENT ABILITY POINTS DO I HAVE?!

“So yeah, go nuts.” Wolf said, slithering over to the shop. “I got a few repair orders to grab.”

“Have a good day bro, I’m going to spend these, look around a bit more, then plot a way to truly break through the 4th wall and kill our Authors.” I said. Yeah that’s right, fuck you. Wait what are yo-

“So yeah, go nuts.” Wolf said, slithering over to the shop. “I got a few repair orders to grab.”

“Have a good day bro, I’m going to spend these and look around a bit more before visiting sun butt. Haven't seen my original teach in forever.” I said, feeling like I’m forgetting something.

Looking through the list of stuff it was quite the impressive assortment of powers. Wait, what’s this? ተገኝ? The hell even is that word? I shrugged before putting a point in it… I hate my curiosity.

ተገኝ (Devoure)
Throw away your kinds nurture with your species special stomachs and digest all you consume and gain their power.

I humed to myself before turning off the ability for now. It never hurts to have a tool, but I don’t want to forget about it and eat one of my wives or something. After reading them in some detail just in case I kept the good ones and questionable ones I left alone. With that done I opened up a DTL to Canterlot.

Canterlot changed even more than Ponyville. Trolleys, cars, subway entrances. It was like a city on earth. “Holy shit.” I said as I casually slithered up to the castle, thankful that some things never change too much.

The guards halted me but Shining taught me that keeping my badge helps in these matters. I flashed it and they let me pass. Hard to tell who is who with those enchanted armors. I entered the throne room and… Blueblood?! “And stocks in-” He stared at me for a time after noticing I came in. “Uhh… Eclipse?” He pondered.

“The one and only, literally, I checked the multiverse.” I chuckled.

“What...happened to you? Last time I saw you you where...a pony.”

“Still am, just a naga. Long story but it is the same reason Twilight isn’t around that often anymore.”

“I feel like asking will just grant me a migraine. Is that right?”

“Blue, it’s me. That should tell you enough.” I laughed, my coat moving to show a couple of my new scars. “Well I want to talk to our glorious Sunass. Seen Celestia around?”

“She’s...retired.” Blue said sadly.

“Wait what?” I said, deadpanned.

“Well, after you were gone and these Daybreak people came along so many heartless began appearing. In those early days a...lot of ponies… After all that, what with Cadence in the north aiding the Crystal Empire and Luna a mother, having renounces her title and status as a Princess of Equestria, she broke. I remember it very clearly. She said ‘I quite’ then proceeded to throw her crown out the nearest window, burn down her bedchambers then vanished in a flash of a teleportation spell. We still don’t know where she is and since I am still the only noble with a prince title her responsibility fell upon me… raising the sun sucks... Thankfully Daybreak supplied elixirs and such for help.”

“.... I’m sorry Blue. If I didn’t leave, maybe Celestia would have stayed… But I might be able to help bring her back. She might not take to ruling again, but she’ll at least be able to lighten your load with the sun.” I said, pulling out one of my many wish tokens I have collected in my multiverse hoping. “That is, if you want me to try.”

He pondered for a moment, then shook his head. “I am sure she just needs the time to sort it out herself. If you find her, you can talk with her but do not push it, she might react negatively.”

I smiled “Don’t worry, If she wants to stay alone I’ll let her, but not without getting some answers.” I said, flipping the coin. ‘I wish to know where Celestia is and to go to her.’

The coin glowed, and in a flash, I found myself on… a farm. Rather newly built, everything here looked recently built. Crops were planted and sprouting.

“No wonder she chose here… She gets to nurture life while being at peace.” I said before slithering around, my hands in my pockets to show a relaxed state.

Taking stock on her garden, I saw lots of wheat, berry bushes, and an apple tree sapling. The house itself was rather small, but if it’s just Celestia here I don’t think it needs to be that big, even with her above average height.

I walked over and gave the door a few knocks. “Hey, Sunbutt? You’re second favorite student is here!” I called out, keeping a smile on my face.

What came next I did not, ever, in my life expect to hear some come Celestia’s mouth. “Go away…” She said, sounding a bit tired and annoyed.

“Ouch.” I said before taking a seat. “Sigh. Celestia, I’m not here to bring you back… I just wanted to see my old teacher and sister in law again. Ever since I got back… I can’t even recognize my own home anymore… And I guess I wanted someone to confide into who wouldn't worry about my every step.” I admitted, feeling like a small colt again.

I heard a sigh, the door opening and making me fall over. I saw the teacher I grew up with alongside Twilight. Her mane was in a ponytail, her tail was CUT, now it was short, bearly a foot or so long. She also was wearing her glasses I remember she normally wore when reading. “Come in…” She said, turning in and hopping on her makeshift bed of wood, hay and vines.

I followed her in, thankful that she will at least hear me out. I looked around the house as I opened my mouth, choking on the words. “I’m sorry.”

“Pardon?” She asked, looking at me and not the book in her hooves.

“If I had been here… Cript was right. I was spending too much time trying to better myself I lost sight of the reason I did it at all… Here I am, Stronger than Wolf, stronger than most gods could claim to be, and I did nothing to even lessen the damage done to my own home. I’m sorry I wasn't there for you, to help you though all the bullshit that happened… I’m sorry I couldn't be a brother to you…” I ranted, tears starting to form in my eyes. I truly felt like a young colt again, if I didn’t before, unleashing all my pent up feelings at once. “And I’m scared. I have to get stronger or else everyone I know and love will die, even you, but everytime I try to, I miss so much of my family and friends here. I’m surprised any of my kids still see me as a dad, when I have never been there for them. I’m surprised Luna, Dash and Shy even stick around and forgive me… I’m surprised that you didn’t just force me to leave you in your peace.”

She looked at me, took off her glasses, and sighed. “You never did see others point of view, did you?” She asked.

“No… not until I was forced to open my eyes…” I said, slithering up to her. “Celestia… I’m sorry I wasn't here to help… Like I promised I would.”

“Now then, here’s my perspective. I failed.” She said, surprising me. “Eclipse, I ruled over Equestria alongside Luna for hundreds of years in peace… then she became Nightmare Moon, a thousand alone and in peace. Because I sent her to the moon. Then these heartless came along, and you dealt with them, for a short while you and the few others from Daybreak at the time. Then more showed up. While you were not here, I… did not know what to do. At the time those from Daybreak where mostly just average citizens, refugies. Yes they all had Keyblades but no true combat experience. So many fell to those creatures Eclipse, all because I relied too heavily on you without learning to rely on myself. I ruled in peace trying to avoid conflict. Because of this the guard where way under experienced to defend themselves let alone the citizens. This event made me realize that while wishing and living in peace is all good and fine, it’s a child's wishes to never expect them to appear. I failed because I thought you and you alone could handle these threats when I… didn’t give it much thought. I was arrogant and overconfident, and thousands of creatures all across Equis suffered.

“There isn’t even a Griffon or Hippogriff kingdom anymore… Only a few survivors scattered here and there. I am more at fault than you because I failed to take matters into my own hooves to protect everypony, rather than expect you to carry all that weight.”

I didn’t let her say one more word. I shot over and hugged her. “We are both to blame sister.” Was all I said through my tears.

“But I am supposed to be more mature, more experienced...and it feels like after all these years I still have not learned anything.”

“You are still mortal, long lived or no. you make mistakes. We all do. Some we carry with us for all eternity. But with mistakes like that…. You don’t have to suffer alone. I’m sure you’re captains and generals equally felt the blame, as it was their duty to defend Equis, yet they fell flat, your orders or no. then there is Wolf, me, they Bearers of Harmony, all those warriors from daybreak who were here, they all must have felt the guilt.” I pulled away and looked at my old teacher- no, my sister in the eyes. “You are a keyblade master just as Luna, two halves to a whole. Tell me, did you tell her where you would end up? Did you inform her about coming here at all?”

“Why bother? She had enough issues with the newborns and work.”

“You’re her sister. You of all ponies should know what it is like to lose a sister and not know if they are alright, how their mental state is, or anything.” I said earnestly. “I don’t want you to go back to ruling… Not if you don’t want it. Blue can handle taking the responsibility dumped on him pretty well surprisingly enough. But you should talk to Luna, even if it is for a moment.” I gave her a soft smile. “I’m sure that, after initial moments of rage and betrayal, she will want nothing but to hold you close. Tell me Sister, what does your heart say?”

“My heart feels conflicted. Ever since Sister and I took the crowns and began ruling, I felt so...unsure. I mean, we were children and suddenly we were the leaders of the three tribes? We didn’t get to grow up, we where foals where were forced to become Mares. I took on most of the responsibility so Luna could at least have some fun… and now Eclipse...I’m just tired of it all. I want to live my life my way, be irresponsible, get drunk, have fun, screw a stallion, mare, one of those Daybreak humans, I don’t care. Heh, it feels so good to say that.”

“I bet. But I know you do care, at least somewhat. You may not care for the crown, neither does luna. But you two do care for each other… All I ask is you talk to her, maybe tell her where you live so she can visit. I will keep where you are a secret among family. Besides, I’m sure I can put you on a world where no one will give a rats ass about who you are.” I said, thinking of the world I spend time with Josh on.

“As nice as that sounds Right now all I ask is to be alone for a while. Sort out the memories of… those days. I promise I’ll send a letter to Luna someday, but for now all I want is some tranquil peace to sort myself out.”

I sighed. “Alright, just remember you’re not alone, alright? We are all here for you.”

“I will. It’s not that I don’t want to be with you all, I’m just… I feel the need for a quiet place. Unless you have a rather quiet isolated place hidden under those scales of yours This is as close to others as I feel I can get to at the moment.”

“I kinda do, but that’s neither here nor there.” I said before an idea sparked. Reaching into the magic both inside me and around me, I started to turn the mana and spell structure solid until in front of me was a glowing blue symbol representing both the sun and the moon together.

“My word. Looks like you’ve been studying since you left my classroom.” Celestia cooed.

I chuckled. “You could say that. I also now have my internal magic boosted but hey, no one is counting.” I magiced of some string before turning the symbol into a charm and handing it to Celestia. “If you ever want to see your nephews and Nieces, want to see Luna and I, or hell just want to hit the club and go bar hopping, this will take you there. It doesn't even need to be on Equis.”

Smiling, Celestia took it, and wore it around her neck. “Thank you Eclipse. And if you ever want to visit again, please do. One pony at a time should be alright for my current mentality.”

I smiled. “That is all I ask. You have a good day and my I say, lovely garden.” I said as I made my way for the door, feeling much better.

“Thank you. Been so long since I was in touch with my earth pony magic.” Celestia said as I closed the door.

I headed back home, the differences still felt strange, but nothing I can’t get used to. I realized I should see what Scootaloo was up to this morning. I headed over to their Clubhouse, but didn’t see her. I did see Applebloom though. She was cleaning up some leaves that flew from the windows.

“Hey Applebloom, how’s it been?” I asked the young apple.

“Yipe!” She shouted, throwing a… Keyblade!? I ducked, that strike raid missing my mane by an inch. “Eclipse?! Ya scared the Apple Cider outta me!” She said, her Keyblade, the Treasure Trove one from Birth by sleep, reappearing in her mouth.

“Oh, you got a keyblade now? Cool! Sorry for scaring you Bloom.”

“Huh, oh yeah. That Justin fellow did that ceremony thing for the class so we can learn early. Said that his home is no longer solid, but that don’t mean his heart’s not workin. Or somethin like that.” She said, trying to think about how Justin might had worded that. “Anyway, what brings you to the CMC clubhouse?”

“Oh I was looking for Scoots. She seemed really eager to leave this morning and I figured she might have been hanging with you lot.” Or having some teen stallion or mare take advantage over her so I can rip his or her pathetic throat out…. It’s a good thing I can hide my bloodlust well!

“...Right…” She said, a bit worried now. “Well Scoot’s ain’t here. She’s over at Diamond Tiara's.”

“Really? Huh, I wouldn't have guessed. Any idea what she is up to?”

“Not really. All I know is that after we made a bet she couldn’t hole the whole class inside those stomachs of hers, proved us wrong, Tiara’s been having her come over every Thursday for the whole day. Or after School, whichever. She won’t tell us why and Silver Spoon doesn't know either.”

I opened my mouth before slowly closing it, a dawning look upon my face. “You know what? I’ll talk to her when she gets home. I think I know what is going on now.” I said, thinking of my own girls.

“If ya say so. Honestly I just figured she wants the company since her parents...well, I’m sure ya heard about all those heartless attacks.”

Great… more people I failed… I sighed sadly. “Yeah… yeah I heard bloom.”

“It wasn’t pretty. Though, it was pretty strange. Silver said they took her mama, and her pa had his heart taken...but they ignored Tiara completely, and her since they were next to one another. It’s strange, I thought those monsters attacked everypony?”

“Tiara must have had just enough darkness to go unnoticed… Did silver say how Diamond was reacting the whole time?” I asked, wanting as much info as possible.

“Yeah. Scared out of her mind and cryin. Just like her. Well, after Tiara’s parents were… Legal guardianship fell to her butler. As for Barnyard Bargains her dad kept a trust fund of stocks and such in his will for her once she reaches the age she can take over. Til then there’s just enough bits to last her till then. Sure hope she or Scoot’s talks about it sometime. Tiara was a bully but now she’s all silent and moody.”

“Yeah, she must have a lot of darkness then.” I said before smiling at Bloom. “Don’t worry, Darkness isn't evil if you don’t let it be. But I will need to talk to her sooner or later to help teach her how to make peace with her darkness.”

“Well hopefully everything works out. Oh yeah, Rarity wanted ta talk with ya bout somethin.”

“Rarity? Huh. I’ll go see her then. Still got time to kill. Have a good one bloom.” I said with a small wave as I started to leave.

“Thanks. Ya’ll do too!” She called out as I left. I know Zeke’s Tiara had Xehanort’s Keyblades. This is weird, his DT and Scootaloo are sisters, and mine might be… dating? Multiverse. Yeish. I slithered down ponyville, hoping to god Rare’s shop is in the same place it used to be as I traveled along.

As I am along Rarity’s shop, I remembered she was rebuilding it. Over all… it looked the same, save for the carousel part, which now where domes individual displays spinning, each mannequin showing off a different dress. Not bad. I slithered on into the building, the door chime going off as I did. “Hello, Rare’s, you home?”

“Eclipse, is that you?” I heard her call out.

“Yup, been home for nearly a full day.” I said, waiting for her to come over.

Rarity came in...wobbling...holy shit she’s pregnant! “Eclipse Darling, it’s been so long. I see the vest I made you still holds well in that...rather unique form you now have.”

“Yeah. Wow Rares, how’s holding a kid going for you. Hell I bet before I leave again Lulu, Shy and Dash will try and get me pregnant just so I CAN’T leave.” Oh shit did I seriously just put that out for the Authors to use? Shit.

“Heh, well yes. It’s not my foal Darling. I’m a surrogate for a dear friend and client. Flur. She and Fancypants are unable to convince one naturally so I offered. The expecting parents will be here tomorrow and stay until the foal is born sometime next week.”

“Hey I’m proud of you Rare’s! That's an amazing thing you’re doing for them.” I said with a smile.

“Well I am the element of Generosity after all, plus this gives me the perfect excuse to cheat on my diet.” She chuckled. “So, I take it somepony told you I wanted to speak with you if they ever saw you? Correct?”

“Nail on the head there Rarity. Applebloom informed me.”

“Perfect. I wanted to tell you that when gem mining with Spike I discovered a very unique stone.” She said, her magic at work as said stone floated into view from the backroom. It was shaped like a Paopu fruit and glowed a faint orange/gold color. “It reminded me of that charm on your Keyblade Oathkeeper so I felt you would best have it. I’ve had some ponies look over it and none of them even know what it is made of let alone what kind of magic is within it. I have noticed it glows brighter when the foal kicks, as if reacting. But other than that I’m not sure what it is or what it is for.”

“Hm, let me see it.” I said, gently grabbing it out of her magic to examine.

The stone didn’t do anything, then it began flickering. “Omph. Yes, that.” Rarity said. “Everytime the foal kicks it does that.”

I closed my eyes to feel the magic inside. It has got to be some sort of magic, and maybe my orian magic will recognize it.

I didn’t feel anything… until I noticed I saw lights...just lights when my eyes were closed. Two in front of me… Rarity and the foal? Their… their hearts. I opened my eyes, Rarity was looking at me curiously. “Well, did you feel anything?”

“Well… The stone let me see both of your hearts, yours and the babies. Let me check my assistant, see if it can tell me more.” I said, checking the wrist mounted machine more often now.

Heart Stone
This rare stone is connected to the hearts around it, and in the presence of an unborn infant, will glow when the unborn child is reacting. When a newborn child is born, it will glow bright, and give off a light that if collected can be used to offer to Kingdom Hearts, so a New Heart can be created.

“My stars…” I said as my jaw dropped. “Rarity, you have got to read this!” I said, showing her.

Rarity looked over, her expression similar. “Oh my… so, when this foal is born… this stone will give off a light that can make a new heart? My word…”

“I know right? Rarity, I hate to ask, but would you mind if I am there? I want to see if this is true. Besides, I can at least help you out for all you have done for me.” I smiled.

“Why I don’t mind at all Darling. And I suppose the help will be grateful. Oh but you just got back and I’d hate to keep you from your own family… If it’s not too much of a bother mind if I stay over with you? Luna and Fluttershy both already have experience and I could use the pep talk and company.”

“I don’t see why not. Besides, I think it is overdue for you to cash in your favors.” I said with a small smile.

“Hm, oh yes my Store and home… heh, been so long I completely forgot. Heh, thank you for reminding me. Well if you would be a dear and help me upstairs so I can collect my things and Sweetie Belle? She’s asleep early tonight. Something about her Keyblade Homework from Justin.”

“Alright. Besides, if we invite applebloom it can be a Crusader slumber party. I’m sure Sweetie will like that.” I said with a smile, wondering what kind of “Homework” Sweetie was up to. Justin was never THAT rough… alright maybe a little but still.

“Well I am not sure exactly but I do know it’s something important.” Rarity chimed. I helped her up the stairs and once she was in her room I headed off to where Sweetie Belle’s was. I knocked on the door a few times.

“Hey Sweetie Belle, You up? You and Rarity will be staying at my place to help out Rarity with her pregnancy.”

I didn’t get a response. Carefully I opened the door, and what I saw was.... Surprising. Sweetie Belle was...well, Sleeping, but...like how Sora and Riku dropped in Dream Drop Distance… What the hell is Justin teaching? Cause I don’t even know how to do that.

“Visiting the sleeping worlds huh?” I chuckled before gently going over and shaking Sweetie Belle, seeing if that would disrupt it a little.

“Uh, huh?” She said. Her eyes opened and she fell to the ground. “Ouch! Ow…” She winced. “Oh, Hey Eclip- YEAH!” She shouted, jumping almost out of her skin before calming down. “Right, right, Scootaloo’s the same way.” She relaxed. “Long time no see… why are you in my bedroom?”

“Heh, I came to wake you from the sleeping worlds. You and Rarity will be staying at my place to help Rarity out through the final stretch of her pregnancy. I was thinking you, scoots and bloom could use this as a slumber party time with the other girls as well. The guys and I will have our own thing going.” I informed her.

“Oh, that does sound like fun.” Sweetie Belle said. “I’ll start packing.”

“You do that, I’ll go help out Rarity. How was the Sleeping worlds? The dream eaters fun?”

“Pretty Cool. We where to learn the basics of Flomotion then create our own Dream Eater.” She said.

I smiled and summoned mine to me. “You mean like this?” I asked, the look on her face that I was able to do it outside of a sleeping world priceless. “Justin might not know this, but if you can master it, Dream eaters will be your partners everywhere.”

“Neat.” Sweetie said, looking over my Juggle Pup spirit.

After Rarity and Sweetie Belle both finished packing I carried their luggage and helped them along to my place. Once inside I smelt the delicious smell of a hot pot of stew or soup being cooked. I was greeted by Fluttershy. “Welcome back Eclipse. Thanks for leaving a note this time…” She chimed. “Oh, Rarity? Sweetie belle, what are you two doing here?”

“Hey Shy. Rarity was wanting to stay here to get some help during the final stages of pregnancy, and Sweetie Belle needed to come with. I was planning on running over to Sweet Apple Acres to pick up bloom so the crusaders can have a slumber party.” I informed my angelic wife.

“Oh, well that makes sense I suppose. So, where you surprised Rarity became a surrogate mother for Flure and Fancypants? I know I sure was. Heh, Rainbow Dash especially. Thought Rarity would hate ruining her figure.”

“Yes, yes while I do care for my looks and beauty darling Flur and Fancypants have been loyal customers and friends whenever I am in Canterlot. Why if it weren't for them I’d have never even gotten a shop in Canterlot in the first place.” Rarity said, she and Shy sharing a laugh as I put the luggage down.

“Yeah I was surprised, but in the end it made sense. Rarity is always willing to give. Besides, this is payback for her shop I ruined all those years ago.” I said before a dawning realization. “Shit… Pinkie Pie probably knows I missed a birthday or two by Equestrian standards.”

“Actually…” Rarity and Shy started.

“What?” I asked, dreading the answer.

“Well, during those early heartless attacks the...Cakes didn’t make it. Pinkie took over caring for the twins. These days between running the shop and looking after them she rarely has time to throw her usual parties.” Rarity explained.

“We offered to take care of them but Pinkie promised the Cakes that if something were to happen to them she’d care for them.” Fluttershy said.

I became quiet, closing my eyes and taking a deep breath. “So much loss…” I said to myself before opening my eyes, one having a drail of darkness, the other light. “All because no one can just find peace with both of themselves… None try to find the Grey… Hell, one of the oldest hearts alive told me the only reason it isn’t impossible is because nothing is… Grey… To do wrong things for the right reasons…”

“Those early days where quite worrying.” Rarity spoke.

“Yeah. So much happened...and yet a year later, here we are, life going on. Almost like it never happened.” Fluttershy said. “Well, enough sad talk. It’s bad for the foal if the mother is sad.” She said. “Come on Rarity, we got lots of Mint chip ice cream.”

“You had me at Ice Cream.” She said, giving a smile as she followed Shy into the kitchen.

“I’m going to go get bloom!” I called out to them, not noticing that in that time, the tails of my eyes flashed gray before disappearing, not a whole gray. I strolled my way back to Sweet Apple Acres humming in content that something hasn't changed much.

I arrived at the farm and knocked on the door. Applejack answered. “Well call me a milk mare. Been a while Eclipse.” The Apple Farmer spoke. “Apple Bloom told me you stopped by her and her friends clubhouse earlier. What brings ya here?”

“Oh hey Applejack, I’m here to invite her to hang out with the other crusaders in a slumber party. Sweetie is needing to stay at my place so Rares can get some help from Lulu and Shy.” I said, smiling at the country mare.

“Oh right, her Foal for Flur and Fancy is due soon. Well I’ll go get Bloom then.”

“Alright. Sometime we have got to talk, it’s been ages since I got to talk to my favorite Apple Farmer.” I said with a kind smile.

“Well why don't ya come in. I got a barrel of Cider up here and Bloom will take some time packing her things. Silly filly always takes forever to pack.” AJ laughed, moving so I could enter.

I chuckled good naturedly as I entered. “So how’s it been?” I ask, dreading any answer anypony gives me, even if I hide it with a smile…. One that I’m giving to the Element of Honesty…. Real smooth….

“Well, could be better, could be worse.” She said, closing the door. She quickly went upstairs, likely to tell Applebloom about the sleepover before coming back down. She then walked me to the kitchen, and took out two mugs which she poured cider into from a tap hammered into a barrel. She gave me a mug. “So, surprised about how much has changed around Equestria?” She asked, taking a sip.

“Oh you have no clue.” I said with a shake of my head. “I mean, when I left here Ponyville still felt like a close nit small town, now while it still has it’s charm, it just feels like the only thing I can recognize is your farm.”

“Heh, yeah. We haven’t changed much since Ponyville was founded, and after all it’s fancy makeovers we still haven’t. Only new things around here is an extra crater or two from Justin’s training of the new Keyblade guard Blueblood had initiated after the Heartless kept attacking.”

“Yeah… heard about that all day…” I sighed. Yeah Celestia helped, but it is still fresh for me… I can’t get over it just yet.

“Yeup. Those were some dark times. A few...unexpected things came out of it though…” Aj Said, this time taking a swig of cider.

“What do you mean about that?” I asked, taking a swig of my own.

“Well...about four months back Flam of all Ponies comes onto my property. I was about ready to haul his flank out of here...but he had this look… His brother got taken by them Heartless. He wasn’t the same con-artist I remembered. He was a broken stallion with no will to live. We put him to work and, well… I still find it hard to believe but I find myself proud to call him my special somepony. He’s changed so much, for the better, but I hate he had to lose his brother for it ta’ happen.”

“Yeah… loss changes people.” I said, voice of experience more times that what is healthy. “How did Mac take it?”

Aj chuckled. “He about Broke that horn off Flam’s head. Can’t blame him. Granny was happy though. Said she wants to see her great grand foals before she goes. I will admit, while I don’t like Flam’s past, it has come in handy in making new partnerships for Sweet Apple Acres to sell our products in bulk. We’ve never had to not worry about money before. Turns out, he’s a talented unicorn too. Can pick a dozen trees clean with one spell.”

“Well, at least he doesn’t abuse it anymore.” I chuckled before taking another sip and sighed. “I’m not even thirty… and I feel like a old man.”

“Heh, I hear that.” Aj said, taking a sip. “Ever since I took over the farms financials I’ve felt like a mare three times my age. Stress gets to ya in the worst ways.”

“Yeah… For me it is war, training and preparing for it, while trying to keep protecting everything I hold dear, no matter the cost.” I sighed. “Kinda failed at that last part I guess… Couldn’t do it at my wedding, still can't do it now.”

“Can’t live a life and expect not to fail sugar cube. Any failure you can walk away from is something you’ve learned from. I mean, look at Bloom and her friends. All their failed attempts at getting their cutie marks and them girls go back at it the next day, sometimes even later the same day.”

I smiled. “Those girls could teach the entire of reality a thing or two… though I am afraid if they all meet their counterparts in the multiverses… It’ll be like as if every Pinkie and discord were in the same room from how much energy those fillies have.”

“Yesh. Gonna need more cider to forget that thought.” AJ laughed. “So, be straight with me sugar cube. What are you expecting this second Keyblade war ta be like? Justin read from some old diary he got from Daybreak before it fell. Was written by someone who fought in it and it painted a really grim picture.”

I was quiet as even the normal mirth that never leave my eyes, even when phycopath was rampaging, faded. “I won’t sugar coat this AJ… I expect entire multiverses worth of lives to be lost. This won’t be a fight for Equestria, or even a fight for our world… this war… it will be a fight for Existence. And one thing I know is all Keyblade wielders, you, Shy, Luna, Dash…. The Crusaders…. All are required to take part. Others can try and run… but I wish them luck. This is one war you won’t be able to escape, no matter how far you fly.” I said, the coldness of my voice colder than my most advanced ice spell.

Aj sighed, crossed her hooves on the table and rested her head on them. “Well then, best enjoy the peace while it’s around. Can’t expect to just worry til this war happens, best make the most out of it til the day comes.”

“I’m trying… but it’s so hard when all I see is how I need to get stronger, how I need to be there to fight. How I will need to kill anything that comes close to my family to keep them safe. And the worst part is I will enjoy every minute of watching the life fade form other’s eyes if it means my family and friends are unharmed.”

Aj was silent for a while. “...Ya know Eclipse, my pa once told me something.” The apple mare said, raising her head back up. “When I was a filly, just learning ta buck an apple tree, I’d buck and buck till it felt like my hooves were gonna break and not a single apple would fall of that tree. Pa told me that if I tried too hard at what I’m already good at, I’ll fail at what I’m best at. I think, if you keep training to become stronger, you’ll keep failing to protect what you’ve been trying to get stronger for. You need to remember that your strength ain’t all about how fit your body is or how many fancy moves you can pull off swinging your Keyblades, it’s about what’s inside ya, and letting that become your true strength.”

I closed my eyes, taking her words to heart as a line from a game I haven't played since this chaos all started now 23 years ago came to mind. ‘My friends are my power, and I’m theirs.’ “You’re right, I was so scared to lose anybody that because of my need to grow stronger, I wasn’t here to keep from losing anyone.”

“Heh, well shucks if I knew my pa’s old advice would get to ya so well i’d have charged ya for it.” She chuckled. “Sorry, little bit of Flam has rubbed off on me. Still though, I’m glad you’re gonna take that to heart.”

“Yeah… It’s good to talk again Applejack. You always was a rock to fall back on. Or a tree to lean on.” I smiled, some life returning to my eyes.

“Heh, well I’ve been around and I’ve learned to be a reliable friend. If ya ever wanna talk some more some other time, the door’s always open and the cider will be waiting.”

“Thanks AJ. Well, from the sound of running hooves, Apple Bloom is coming down. I’ll make sure she is safe.” I said, finishing my cider.

“Thanks Eclipse. I best get upstairs to Flam, he went to bed early tonight since he picked most of the north orchard clean. Never knew that skinny twig of a stallion could do that, even with magic. Either way he’s got us stocked for our buyers.”

“Heh, yeah. Tell him I said hello.” I said, helping Bloom with her bags.

“Will do.”

After walking Bloom to my place, she and Sweetie began setting up a pillow fort in the living room… hey, where’s Scootaloo?

“Scoots?” I asked, looking around.

“She’s not here.” Sweetie Bell said, head popping up from a pillow.

“Must still be at Tiara’s place.” Bloom suggested. “I know she sometimes stays overnight, but that’s pretty rare. Only like, twice before.”

“Huh, Well I’ll go over and see what’s up. If she is staying at Tiara’s we can invite her over or she can stay, but I like to know where she is.” I said before calmly starting for the door.

Tiara’s place was the most hard to miss in town. It was literally the only mansion in town. It’s gates, once neat and clean now overrun by vine based plants, the grass cut but not as neat as it was known for. The once very decorative bushes now grew wild and had very little trimming work done. Even the house itself, once proud and bold now looked saddened and abandoned, if not for the few lights on one would think it was.

I couldn't help but feel saddened before I slithered on up to the door and gave a few knocks.

After a bit the elderly estate butler answered. “Ah, miss Scootaloo’s father. Eclipse, right?” He asked.

“Yes, that is me. Sorry to barge in but I just wanted to check on Scoots. I would offer my condolences… but It wouldn’t do anything but reopen wounds.”

The butler sighed. “Can’t reopen what’s still bleeding.” He said. “Diamond Tiara ever since that day has been a completely different filly. Every night she cries herself to sleep and she still has nightmares about the event. Even I still do.”

“I’m sorry I couldn’t be here to help, but hopefully I can help prevent any future tragedies from happening.” I said, the fire in my chest finally starting to ignite.

“I hope so… I remember that day so clearly. Those creatures stole her father's heart...but something I didn’t understand is that they took Spoiled, not like her husband, they dragged her into this… it was like a doorway made of darkness.”

“Not surprised… Tell me, and speak truly, was Spoiled ever a good mare?” I asked.

“That’s hard to answer. While she often came off as rude and uptight, she and Rich did care for one another and while both were busy with work they gave young Tiara attention whenever possible. True miss Spoiled has done some, what some would call, cruel things, but it’s because she grew up in poverty as a dairy farmer on her family farm in Philadelphia. When she first arrived she even spoke different. She just didn’t want Tiara to know the hardships she endured. Being from a ‘lesser family’ and married into money she had to learn and take on a whole new persona.”

“So a good mare doing bad decisions… not something the heartless normally look for.” I said mumbling to myself. “Alright, if Spoiled was taken, and not have her heart stolen like with Rich, there is a high chance she is still savable. With Rich… We will need to find his nobody and heartless and either get them to meet, or slay both to bring him back… and the chances of finding the exact heartless and nobody are slim to none.”

“If such a feat is possible yet slim, please don’t tell Tiara. I’d hate for her hopes to be crushed at the chance of hope that might never be.”

I sighed. “I find some hope to hold on to is better than pure despair… but as her guardian I’ll respect your wishes.” I said with a respectful nod.

“Thank You. Miss Scootaloo is with Tiara in her bedroom. She arrived quite early this morning and the two haven’t left since. While lately that is normal Scootaloo has never arrived this early in the day.”

“Strange, she didn’t even tell me she’d be here, I found that out by her friends.” I said before shaking my head. “She is probably trying to support a friend. If it is more than that… Well I’ll try to either help or put a stop if it’s dangerous.” I said, slithering inside.

The inside of the mansion felt dead. While it was more well kept than the outside, it still lacked the sense of life a house or building should have. Tiara’s room was on the third floor. I could tell they were in their cause the lights where on that I saw from the cracks in the door. I tried to open it, but it was locked… Okay, not suspicious at all...

I was about to summon my keyblades but stopped. I don’t have the right to barge in to not only my daughter’s life, but someone else's home. I sighed and knocked on the door three times.

“Huh?” I heard a voice say. I think it’s Scootaloo’s. Sounds like she woke up from a nap or something.

“Scoots? It’s me. I was just wondering if you’ll be home tonight. Bloom and Sweetie are staying over tonight.” I responded through the door. ‘Maybe they were in the Sleeping worlds like Sweetie?’

“Dad? Eep! Dad!?” She said, the door suddenly unlocking as she opened it. “Hey… who ratted me out?”

“Uh...everyone?” I admitted, being told all day about where she was.

She hit her head on the door. “Apple Bloom was the first huh?”

“Yeah, though can you blame me for asking? You looked so worried this morning when I asked where you were going today.” I said, not wanting to push Scoots too much.

“Heh...yeah...You want some answers, right?”

I smiled and shook my head. “Not if you don't want to give them. Honestly, cross my heart hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye, I only came to see if you were coming home. I didn’t care that you were here… especially from what I heard all day.” I said, hiding the pang of fading sorrow i felt.

“Well...Best I tell you anyway. Come on in.” She said. I entered and noticed the bulge in her tail… somehow I just knew it… “So,” She said, closing the door. “As you can tell from the...uh, bulge I have Tiara in one of my stomachs…”

“I figured. After hearing how you swallowed the entire class.” I chuckled.

She blushed. “It was a bet… anyway, after that day Tiara asked me to come over. It was strange but she had just lost her parents so I didn’t think that much of it. As it turns out she fell asleep when I had her, and the rest of my class, in my stomachs for half an hour. To swallow and gag them up. And she slept without any nightmares… So I’ve been coming over, swallowing her so she can get some peaceful rest. She says it feels like she’s being hugged when she’s in there and when she falls asleep she can feel her mom and dad hugging her. So I’ve just been coming over, she sleeps and sometimes I take a nap like now or just mess around. She always has some food and stuff here for me to eat, heh, and some books, comics, and recently a tv. She told her guardian that when I’m over not to disturb us and he hasn’t at all. Actually kind of surprised about that.”

“It must be out of respect for an open wound.” I said, knowing Scoots will get what I mean. “But I’m proud of you squirt. You’re doing the right thing.” I smiled as I pat her head. “If you want, we can ask if she can come over as well. It’ll be a slumber party for you, you’re friends and your sisters. The guys will be in another room doing guy stuff.” And by that I mean loaf around, joking, gaming, maybe a few naga games I can share with the kids.

“Heh, sounds cool. I know Tiara won’t mind, so long as I’m her sleeping bag.” Scoot’s laughed. “I swear it gets harder for her to wanna get out, and I feel bad for having her get out. I know that technically she could live in there, Grandma Gleaming said our magic keeps all inside our special stomachs safe and nourished magically, they don’t need food, water, air, or even the need of the bathroom while in there but that’s no real life.”

I sighed. “You need to talk to her about it then Scoots. I don’t think anyone else can. You are someone she trusts to keep her safe, she is more willing to listen to that than some random pony who wasn’t even there when he was most needed.” I said, ruffling her mane.

“I know. I will, just uh, mind leaving the room. The yaking her up part is uh, kind of embarrassing.”

I stared at her before laughing my ass off. “Heheh Alright squirt, but really it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Seriously I just got back from Grandma Gleaming’s world and it is really common there.” I said as I slithered out.

I waited outside the rom for a while. It had to be a good ten minute or so before the door opened again. This time Scootaloo and Tiara where with one another, well, Tiara was hugging Scootaloo by her waist/human part turning to snake part section and the rest of her was resting on her tail. “Well, she said she’ll try and spend a bit more time outside of my stomachs but she says she’ll want more time with me…”

“I’ve become too attached.” Tiara said, digging her muzzle into Scoot’s backside.

I felt a bit of warmth from the cuteness of it all...and some fatherly protection coming along. “Alright then, just be careful Diamond. Scoots can take a beating, but I don’t want to hear you went back to hurting her emotionally, k?” I said, keeping all malicious out of my tone as I sent a text to Scoots through the assistant.

‘Welcome to your first relationship Scoots. Take a look at me if you ever need a bad example, being gone from all of you, doing dangerous things with no knowledge as to where I’ve gone or when if ever I’ll be back, and if it is in one piece. To abandon your kids when you gave them hope for a life with both parents, not for your new dad to up and leave at the drop of a hat. To not be there when everyone needs you because you are too focused on one goal you forget what makes it important. Scoots…. Could you ever forgive me for being a shitty dad?’

“I-I swear I’d never say anything bad about Scootaloo again.” Tiara said, blushing.

I got a reply message.

From: Scootaloo
You’re not a bad dad, dad, you’re just busy. Considering all the junk you go through I can understand you not being around a lot, but it’s just comforting to know that even if you aren’t around you still care and love me.
PS- What do you mean Relationship? Tiara and I are just friends. Huh, wonder if she’ll let Silver in on this if she ever opened up about this? I’m sure her oldest friend will support her like I have been.

I smiled, keeping myself from laughing my ass off before I turned to the two girls. “Well, Let’s get you packed Diamond. Bloom and Sweetie are already back at the house. Oh and Scoots? Don't be surprised if Mama Shy or Luna talk to you after the sleepover. The only reason I don't say Dash is because she hates feeling vulnerable to anyone but me.” I chuckled at my dirty joke, hoping that if she does get it she finds it kinda funny too.

“Uh...okay?” Scoot’s said. OMG she has no idea. I took heart in that as I helped Tiara pack up, telling the butler where we are off to. He was genuinely happy that Tiara had something fun to do and had no problems with it thankfully. He seems like the good sort in my eyes. At least Tiara has someone good to raise her still.

It wasn’t long before we reached the house. I opened up the door and decided to have some fun. “Honeys, I’m home!”

“Good, dinner’s ready!” Luna called out.

As I made it to the table I saw that Sweetie and Applebloom where seated next to one another...and Silver Spoon?

“S-Silver Spoon?” Tiara said, getting off Scootaloo and walking up to her friend. “What are you doing here?”

“Sweetie Belle and Applebloom invited me. My parents were okay with it since I told them you’d be here.” The grey coated filly responded.

“But how did you?”

“When they told me they went to go get Scootaloo I know you’d be tagging along.” That made Tiara blush. Aww, how cute. “And I figured I can finally pray what you two have been up to after school. I mean we’ve hearly hung out since you’ve been inviting her over. I mean I know love struck when I see it but-”

“L-love struck?!” Tiara said.

“W-were just friends Silver.” Scootaloo added.

“Right…” Silver said with a smile and rolling eyes.

Silver and I both glanced to each other with a knowing look. ‘Those two are blind as hell’ We both said to each other without a word spoken. “Alright girls. Oh Shy, Luna, Dash, I need to talk to you three alone after the food.” I said. My stomach growling. What, in the year I was gone I only had one week where I ate like a Naga.

“Oh, sure thing.” Dash said, my wives sharing a surprised look.

Dinner was great. No idea where all this food came from or even how there was leftovers, but it was amazing. The girls all played games and got some ice cream. The rest of the kids joined in and it was like a kids birthday party. When it got late and all the kids fell asleep I saw Tiara was cuddled up to Scoot’s. Applebloom and Sweetie Belle where sleeping in the pillow fort, Silver sleeping on the couch and the rest of the kids wither where asleep where they dropped or where in their beds.

Carefully I went to my room. The wives all left earlier to make sure the newborns were all taken care of before bedtime and where waiting for me for that talk. “So, what is it you wanted to talk about Eclipse?” Fluttershy asked.

“Well, I was wanting at least some of you to talk to Scoots. It is apparent to Silver and I that Diamond has a thing for her.” I said, not beating around the bush as I nuzzled Shy. “And I dont think it’s the dad’s place to inform her about that.”

“Oh that, we know about that.” Luna said.

“I figured, After all, you mares always were brighter than me… well except maybe you Rainbow.” I said, sticking out my tongue in a playful manner… all footlong of it.

“Hey! I’m the one who spied on her!” Rainbow said.

Luna rolled her eyes. “While mad at first at Dash’s actions, we supposed it is a mother's job to snoop. So once we learned of it we figured we’d wait til Scootaloo either realized it herself or was having too much trouble. That display in the kitchen today has informed us that neither quite understands their feelings towards one another so we will leave it be for now.”

I chuckled. “Honestly, I dropped a hint to scoots and it flew way over her head. She truly is both Dash’s and my daughter.” I laughed.

“Should I be offended?” Dash asked.

I swooped her up with my tail and kissed her. “Never. It adds to your charm and cool factor.”

The next day I decided to visit my bro in the Crystal Empire. Heading there was simple enough, and once I arrived I saw it doesn’t seem to have changed too much. Aside from some more modern things here and there, it still looked like something from a thousand years ago. Honestly a breath of fresh air, much like Sweet Apple Acres.

I slithered on through, waving at the ocationaly passerby as I headed for the castle. The crystal heart sat there with it’s ever positive glow. Insanity was cringing at it’s positivity but other than that voiced no complaints.

Inside the castle I met up with Shining. Turns out he’s an expecting dad. Cadence is three months pregnant and while she went to the spy, Shining and I went to the Castle’s built in bar. Yeah, this castle has a bar built into it. Neat.

“So, how’s it been big bro?” I asked as I ordered the drink mix for Devil’s Poison

“Pretty good. Uh, you sure that’s healthy? I know you’ve had an unnatural tolerance for alcohol but even with that crazy new body you sure that’s good for you?” He asked, eyeing the delf bubbling liquid.

I took a swig before smiling at Shining. “Bro, next to ale made to literally get gods drunk, this is the only drink that has ever gotten me tipsy or even drunk.”

“Heh, well if you say so.” He said, taking a sip of his beer. “So, what warrants the visit?”

“Just a visit. I wanted to talk to you, especially after what I heard happened while I was gone.”

“Oh yeah...that…” He said, taking a gulp of beer. “Well, I’m sure everything you’ve heard was right. Though the Crystal Empire wasn’t touched. Daybreak people who moved here said the heart on this world is a weaker, lesser version of their old one made from similar magic crystal but it only takes in magic and generates the barrier. Apparently the one they had did a whole lot more fancy stuff.”

“Yeah they did. I have been to Daybreak a few times before it’s apparent fall… it was a wonder, and just improving. It would have been amazing once it had finished.” I said reminiscing with a smile on my face, taking another drink.

“Heh, now I’m sad I never got to see it. Folks from there talk about it like it was the promised land or something. Sad to hear it fell, had a lot of old knowledge to Keyblades that was lost before. Now, most of it’s back to being lost again.”

“Not if I can help it.” I said, taking another drink as that spark from yesterday ignited into a ember. “I have a plan. I will do something no being has done since the dawn of the true creation, and help my family retake their empire, but come the war, I will not let anyone I care about suffer. I will protect them.” I said, Shining and I sharing a look.

“Heh, well you always have done some impossible stuff. Just remember what dad always said. A plan is always good, but a little dumb luck doesn’t hurt either. Heh, mom hit him over the head everytime he said it, she and Twilly where the big plain makers in the family.”

“Then there was you, the hot head, and me straight down the middle.” I said with a laugh.

“I believe it was you who after basic training showed up your whole squad by beating the guards training corps speed record for the obstacle course after your second day there, THEN in hoof to hoof fighting put your commanding officer into a full body cast?”

“Hey! Not my fault they never expected me to use my magic to enhance my physical attributes. They allowed magic but the others were thinking too narrow mindedly.” I defended myself.

“Yeah, sure. It has nothing to do with the fact spells like that where only deemed theoretical until you did them?”

“I… er… shut up.” I said, hiding my face behind my glass as I took another drink. “You and Gleaming are so much alike… Wait, if she is you, does that make my brother my mother?”

“...We need some more booze.”

“Agreed.”

It got late and Shining headed home. I was here for another day so I checked into a hotel. My room was small but able to be comfy. Once settled I started thinking about stuff. Life has changed so much here, it’s just...unreal. I sighed and looked out the window to the night sky. Every star another world. Every world having thousands of different versions. And all were in danger…

Damn, and here I thought accepting God’s offer all those years ago would be a fun fresh start. Now so much is at stake and only we few handfuls are what stand in the way. We Myan Keyblades. I chuckled at the dumb title I just gave us before laying down, closing my eyes,

And taking a Dive.

I woke up feeling pretty good and why is there a Shed in here? There was a brown shed, heavy wood door, window, red light bulb on the side and a window with closed blinds. I walked up to it and opened the door to look inside. Curiosity, damn you! But what would you do in this situation?

And...it’s huge… it’s bigger on the insi...This is a Tardis...isn’t it… Welp, always wanted to see what these where like! I hummed happily as I slithered inside without a care in the world. Honestly, as long as I’m home before the end of the day. I’m not leaving my family for long times like that again unless it is for their safety.

Once inside I saw this placed looked amazing. I felt like a kid in a candy store. I came across a hallway, here there was lots and lots of doors. I almost reached for one before I had my tail whip my hand. “No, bad curiosity! Explore rooms later, find out who is here first.”

Bang, Clank. “Son of a-” BOOM! Was that Cript… and the hell just blew up? Why am I not surprised, this must be his… where and how the hell did he get a Tardis?

I followed the sounds of cursing and destruction as if I was walking to the corner store, if nothing else to see what my adopted father got himself into.

I came across the open door and inside was what looked like a laboratory with all kinds of things happening. Near the door was Cript, dusting himself off from whatever he was doing at that table seems to have exploded. “Things have a habit of blowing up in your face, don’t they?” I said, being the sarcastic asshole I am.

“Ja-Fuck!” Cript yelped, suddenly shooting NINE bullets at me, two of which hit. Thank you scales… “Eclipse… The hell are you doing here?!”

“Well when a tardis appears in the room of the most curious person in this world-”

“Don’t say-” I was suddenly zapped with enough lightning to make a Thundaga feel like static… “That… This place has a mind of it’s own and it hates being called...that.”

“Note taken. Sorry about that.” I said to the… whatever it is as a puff of smoke came out of my mouth, my scales scorched. Thank you abilities I perked into or I would be ash. “But yeah, what did you expect me to do when a door appears in my room?”

“Ugh… This thing loves to hop around when I’m working. And sorry for being jumpy. Last sudden appearance of another person here they tried to kill my newborns.” He said, finishing dusting the ash off him. “Don’t worry, wherever or whenever we are I’ll send ya back a minute after you left.”

“Wait, I actually do need to ask you something… I was in the negative realm of Darkness recently.” I started. “I talked to Kingdom Key of Darkness while I was there about a plan I have… He said the only way he sees me able to pull it off is to meet the oldest admin.”

“Alive oldest Admin you mean? I knew a few others but they all died. Save for Lord. Is Darkness still on that whole ‘I wanna be whole’ spit again? Ugh, brat has no patience.”

“That's the thing… I think I’m close.” I said opening my heart. White and black trailed off my eyes before turning gray, just for a second and going back to normal. “I’m missing something, and Darkness actually gave up hope a bit until he saw my determination to do this. To remake the Grey.”

“He just lost patience.” Cript said, jumping into a wheeled high chair and heading back to a desk, some computer Equipment appearing as he began assembling it. “Darkness and Light both were once the heart of an Admin. After the Admin war he created, well this reality, by dividing the roles of good and evil. Light and Darkness. While neither is truly good or bad, it’s their roles. Only way the True heart can be returned is with the Crown of Hearts. Workarounds are possible but, huh, well I guess you could do that but it won’t be as strong, still pretty strong though.” He said, connecting some wiring.

The ember became a flame. “I will bring back the Grey.” I said, not in defiance, but as fact. “The authors can’t stop me on that, no matter how hard they may try. All these problems, Inhumans, Humanity, Dark, Light, Nothing, Void, all of it is because they are opposites. It is time to create something where we can show that nothing is black and white. Show them that true harmony is possible, and balance is not truly needed.”

“To each their own.” Cript said, making me a bit confused. “I’ve been to many other Admins realms where Harmony exists, but every garden has it’s weeds.”

“But that's the point of grey.” I said. “Grey isn't good nor evil. It is the willingness to do right, even if the method is seen as wrong. The willingness to slay a army, all of whom have lives and families, if it means you can protect your own.”

“And this power is universal then?” Cript asked, screwing something into place. “Power obtained for powers sake through sheer willpower is a dangerous thing. While true, some will use it for the right reasons, how many can twist it’s, or rather, your intended use for it? The same power you seek can be used to easily slay many more than Core did in his time as a Demon. Harmony doesn't always mean coexistence.”

“I never said it would be easy. But, if there is one, singular truth about reality before, during, and after it’s creation, is that the only thing impossible is the idea of impossibility. No garden is perfect, you are right on that, But even an imperfect garden can be beautiful.”

“Imperfections are what make life interesting.” Cript said, screwing in some more parts.

“Exactly.” I said with a smile.

“Take Life and Death for example. What’s so precious about life if everyone could become immortal or live for as long as they want with enough power? The Admins had that problem. They became secluded, isolated, egotistical, and a bit bigot. The Admin war showed them that they can die. Rather than taking that knowledge in strive afterwards, they scattered, the survivors living for as long as they felt, till now only Lord is left from that bunch. Death shows us everything we do is what defines us and gives us meaning. Immortals live forever without meaning, and even if they have them at first, they often lose sight of it over the long eterities.”

“I’m aware. Hell I’ve always seen Immortality more as a Curse than a gift. Who wants to live forever and see all you know disappeared and replaced with something else time after time? Who wants to know that anyone you care for will die before it feels like you got to know them? Who wants to not have the thrill of defying death?”

“Welcome to my hell.” Cript said simply, wiring another part of the device.

“Exactly. With Recreating the Grey, I don’t want immortality. Besides, I have plenty of flaws that will probably transfer over to grey when it is made. Hell I don’t even want to be all powerful, but I do want to be able to know my family is safe. I will gladly do wrong, to protect my meaning to keep going.” I said. “I know there will be a few bad apples, but honestly if there wasn't, it wouldn’t be a true being with it’s own thoughts, would it?”

“Heh, now you’re getting it.” Cript said, installing a new part to the device. “Sadly not all of us will know Death’s Beauty. Reworking all of Creation will be a hassle, but I got the idea. You wanna talk to Lord then?”

“As long as I’m home in time for dinner.” I said with a shrug.

“Then you best turn around.”

I did just that and….. Mothers of me… He was easy three feet taller than me, armored head to toe, and looked old, but not in any phrase of the word weak… meep… “Eh hehe… yo?” I said, actually intimidated for once in my life.

“Hello.” He said, waking a seat on the floor, still a foot taller than me sitting down. “I understand you seek Grey?”

“Yeah.” I said taking a breath to calm down and focus. “Dark and light are just two halves to a whole. I want to create something that proves to all, even Dark and Light, that Harmony is possible. It will be hard, it always it, but there is always a chance for it. The power to protect those I hold dear is just a added bonus.”

Lord was silent for a time, making me worried. “You, are an idiot.”

“Why thank you.” I said with a coy smile. “If I wasn’t I’d have nothing to learn.”

“That is not why. You truly believe that Harmony is a possibility?”

“Sigh. Look, I know nothing is ever perfect. Even if I create the grey again, those who wish to use it for corrupt purposes will do so. I’m not Naive. However, I know Harmony is already possible. I am in harmony with my Insanity. I am In harmony with both my light and dark. I am in harmony with Oathkeeper and Oblivion. I am in harmony with myself. I know my flaws. But I don’t sit around an wallow in them, I use them.” I opened my heart again, The gray lasting ten seconds this time before fading back to light and dark. “And I know I am close.”

“This.” He said, pressing a finger over my heart...there goes my rib cage… “Is Origin.” Lord said. “You can call it Harmony, but, in this form of colorless grey, I know it as Origin. After the war, Origin was a dying art. Before everything became so divided and Varied, Origin was a mix of Everything. Cript uses is. But only for his magic.”

“Cause fuck...All the crap I can do…” Cript groaned.

Ignoring the sering pain in my ribcage, I look up to lord in his eyes. “So what does that mean for me?”

“Origin, or as you prefer to call it, Harmony.” Lord started. “Is like Humanity, or magic, or even a simple gun. Anyone can learn to use it, master it, but like Humanity, magic, mastering it takes time. Now then, you must understand this. The Grey you are experiencing is your own, not the grey of the realm you know as home. That, can only be reclaimed by it’s makers Crown.”

“And how would I do that?” I asked. The flame turns into an inferno.

“That, is not your fate.” Lord said.

At that I started to laugh. “Fuck fate. We make our own Destiny. Even Lance agrees with me on that one. The only thing set in stone for our life is our birth and eventual death, for everything has a end. Fate is an idea that sets impossibilities in front of you, but I say fuck that noise.”

“Then let me put it another way.” He said, taking my right hand as Better Half, my X-blade appeared. “You have the wrong key.”

“Then I’ll find it.” I said. “Look, Even the Authors themselves can control half the shit I do. I don’t care if I need to face you Lord. Yeah I may die, But if it means I can keep my promise, and provide a way to keep my children safe? So be it.”

“Then are you willing to kill?” Lord asked.

“Yes.” I said without hesitation.

I saw Lord give Cript a look, the two exchanging eye glances for a time before Cript returned to his work. “There can only be, one of the key in any reflection of your realm. Would you still be willing to kill it’s wielder?”

“If I can't convince them to work with me, and if they are not my loved ones, yes. No power is worth it if the reason to gain it is lost in the first place.”

“Then this is your target.” Lord said, opening his hand as… an image of Zeke appeared. “The X-blade is the key to true grey, and it can only have one wielder across any reflection in this realm. Like Cript, Zeke was created to obtain this crown, for Nexus. But also like Cript, he rejected his destiny, and refuses the crown and it’s potential, it’s power. While you believe in power to protect, Zeke believes too much power is the true danger. He’s won many fights, always holding back, never showing what he can do. He will not work with you, are you still sure you will kill him?”

I chuckled. “If I did, X would never work with me. There are others with balanced hearts X will go to. Besides, Just because Zeke has a different point of view does not make him wrong. We have seen time and time again all powerful foes seek more power to destroy everything he loves, I don’t blame him. Besides that, he is family.” I then glared directly into Lords eyes without fear. “If there is a single good thing about the Ventrals, is we stick by family. If X is the only way, then I’ll make my own way. I have another year or two before the war. That may not be any time in the grand scope of eternity, but just a year ago I was getting my ass handed to me by every single enemy I faught. Now I am able to hold my own.”

“Then make your own Grey.” Cript said, turning around I saw his machine was about complete. “Eclipse, what can you tell me about reflections?”

“Each are infidant yet limited. Each has its own version of events, its own variables, its own rules. Some changes are small, like a single person never being born, others are huge where the very idea of a world is changed. But there is always a change. Take me for instance. You said I was the only me you have ever seen in all the reflections, making me the change in my own.”

“Good. Now then did you know they have rules? Each varying and sometimes random, but there is one constant.”

“And that is?’ I asked

Cript laughed. “There is a god.” He laughed again. “Whenever a new reflections is created, the first intelligent lifeform born into it is born the ‘god’. But if intelligent life is dropped into it, they are named god rather than first born intelligent life.”

“So basically the first being or beings in a reflection are automatically god?”

“Yup. Total control over all reality in that whole reflection. Outside it they can do some other stuff but not as effective.”

“So what does Gods have to do with me trying to remake gray?” I asked, seriously lost on this. I don’t think Cript would want me to become a god.

“Well, with a whole reflection at your will, anything rare can be common. Gold can grow like apples from trees. Food can be as plentiful as grass in plains, Grey can be the dominant power, despite being a lost art for untold years.”

Oh my god he does want me to become a god. “Cript, I just said I don’t want absolute power not long ago. Yeah I want power to protect, but what is the point if there is no challenge to anything? It’ll be One Punch Man all over again.”

“Eclipse, God’s even in their own seats of power are not unkillable. Do you know how many Admins I killed in their own Creations? How many gods I killed in their own dimensions where power for them was as plentiful as salt in the ocean? There will always be a challenge, trust me on that, but right now you are the only source of Grey who wants that stuff back at full force.”

Those last words nailed it into me. “So, I can basically make a backdoor into the true grey slowly by making and entire reflection that uses Gray as a primary power to Light and Dark?

“It can be the only power if you willed it? But in creating a realm of only power and energy, it can leak into others and other things. And when the Rebirth of Creation happens after your Keyblade War 2, the energy will get scattered, latching onto objects, people, whatever.”

“And if everyone has it, then it is no longer lost. The realm will be forced to reawaken.” I guessed. “Become a part of the new creation.”

“Not Exactly.” Lord spoke up. “This grey will have been born from you. The grey of your realm, of Kingdom Hearts, was born from the Admin I knew and fought alongside with. The differences are in what and who birthed it. The original grey will still be sleeping, but you will be creating a whole new grey.”

I nodded. “I’ll go through with it. I won't kill Zeke and all those with a balanced hearts just to awaken a power that I can make myself. I may be willing to kill, but I have morals.”

“And that, makes you a hero.” Cript said. I turned around, seeing his machine was done. “Now then Eclipse, this is only gonna hurt… like having a front seat to the big bang...cause you will.” He said, flipping a small switch as the machine whizzed to life, a bean wrapping me around in some energy. The beam got brighter, and brighter… and in a flash… I was just...floating in total darkness. Not, darkness darkness...emptiness…

It was strange, yet not at the same time. It wasn’t right or wrong, it just was.

I then saw a flash in the distance, and then light...and heat… SO MUCH HEAT!!!!!!! I felt every cell in my body melting and...reforming… OH SHIT THIS HURTS!!!! Insanity screamed with me as the blast forced us into one being, our collective scream in pain being the only noise I hear besides the explosion. Flashes of Luna, Shy, Dash, Scoots, Pura, all of my family. Zeke, Ben, John, the Foretellers, all my brothers and sisters in arms. All flashed inside my mind.

And the inferno matched the explosion before me. I grit my teeth, even as they were evaporated and reformed. I opened my eyes, pure trails of colorless gray smoking from the edges and changing my iris color temporarily to a silver gray as I bared the onslot. My veins glowed with Origin as I forced myself to handle the never ending pain. There is a end in sight, and I know what I suffer for. For them, my family.

Those that which make power worth it. My Keys of Harmony.

My Rules And New Boss

View Online

I grunted, waking up to the sound of ocean waters. Wincing as I got up I noticed I was on...Destiny Islands? No, no the ocean it’s...black, trees blue and…. Everything is just wrong. “Alright, this is just weird.” I said before getting up off the floor.

As I woke up more I noticed the night sky was overhead, but it was as bright as day. None of the things that were a part of the Islands were here. The pier, the ship built into the side of the island, the tree house thing. It was bare.

“Freeky huh.” I turned around, seeing Cript there sitting on a two foot raised section of the dirt before the sand.

“Just a bit… what is wrong with everything?” I asked as I slithered over.

“How the hell should I know? You made this place.” He said, waving around. “When you were thrown into this reflection at it’s birth, and your Grey took control, expanding along with the big bang like bubblegum on hair, this small little world was created.”

I turned around, taking note of everything. “Fitting that this world was created first, wouldn't you say?” I asked as slowly it started to feel less strange.

“Not my place to say. What is my place to say, is that now that you are a god, there is a few rules you need to know.”

“Of course there is. I wouldn't expect any less.” I said honestly, a small desire to edit the world flashing in me before I dismissed it to pay attention to Cript.

“First off, invading another God’s territory, resulting in war means someone is getting killed. Them or you, no exceptions, winner takes all. So be careful where you go from now on.”

“Yesh, talk about cutthroat.” I said with a slight wince.

“Secondly, Luna is considered a Demigod, by extension your kids will all be higher elevations of demigods since you are now a god, Shy and Dash’s kids will only be Demigods, harder to kill, but mortal all the same.”

“And my adopted kids?” I asked.

“Unaffected but you can bestow powers to them by embedding it into them or place it into an item you can give them.”

“I'll do that for each when I get back. Wouldn't be fair otherwise.” I said, imagining the look on their face when I say I'm a god.

“As the first and primary/only god in this reality you can create life, what you do with it is up to you. How it is meant to act, like, think, all yours to mold.”

I looked out over the sea of black. “I'll need to take some time to think about that before following through. Best not to do that willy nilly.”

“Good. Lastly, now that you are a god you have no true gender. You appear male because that’s how you looked coming in. You can change it at will but whatever the case having no true gender also implies you have all genders, so, be careful with sex. You can screw your wife but you might end up pregnant if you don’t figure that mess out properly.”

I laughed. “Knowing the girls they’ll have a blast with that, and make it so I carry a kid of my own just so I don't leave any time soon.”

“Welcome to hell. Anyway, one final thing is that you are a god but as one you still are below me. Not to sound rude, but it’s a step up in terms of divinity, or whatever you wanna call that.”

“Meh, I don't really care about being stronger than you. So what if I'm weaker, it's not you who I want to fight.”

“It means that from now on I’m not just your dad, I’m your boss. You are now at a power that creating life is possible for you. As such, if you do something, anything that defies these laws, or out right pisses me off...Well, you’ll know how good I am at being a bad guy.”

“Yeah, but I don’t have any reason to break those rules.” I said with a shrug. “I don’t think you’ll have to worry about that with me. After all, the only time I’d challenge a god or Admin is if they were a threat to my family. And you’ll never be one. You are family.” I smiled as I continued to look out over the sea.

“Well, let’s see what your Grey can do then.”

I closed my eyes before opening them, the red replaced with silver as gray smoke came out of the edges. “Alright, I know how to activate it… now how to use it…” I said to myself before trying to gather it into a single point, experimenting with it. With a flick of my wrist I sent a wave of gray out towards a random tree… it simply ceased to exist before turning into more gray, saturating the area where it used to be. “Woah.”

“Basic.” Cript said.

“Well sorry. This is the first time I’m using this power, let alone the fact I’m now a god of a reflection made of it.” I sighed. “Alright, lets try this…“ I said before reaching to the area around me as well as the energy inside of myself before focusing it into something the size of a sewing needle and flinging it into the distance. Instead of blowing it up, I smiled as it instead started to fill the area with huge amounts of gray, even for a world filled with it, creating little motes of gray. I made a single butterfly appear just to see what would happen if something living touched it, and for a second nothing happened before it was overtaken by Gray, becoming something akin to a heartless or nobody, gray smoke covering its armored body before disappearing, as I have not stated that anything like that may exist yet. “So gray has it’s own form of heartless and nobodies?”

“Sorta. Grey can be used by anyone remember...or anything. This is a realm of pure energy with this single world as it’s only point of reference. That was a Heartless, and a Nobody, Scouts of Kexez and Spoiled likely. No idea how that will end up working for them.”

“Wait, which Spoiled, because the one in my… or I guess what was my reflection was straight up kidnapped by the heartless.”

“The Spoiled from Zeke’s Equestria was arrested for child abuse. She was thrown in the dungeon. During an attack by a fellow named Crow, managed to invade with Unversed. She escaped, and followed Core for a time. Ripped out her own heart, and took over after he was killed. Now she and Kexez run thick as thieves. And you are saying yours was kidnapped by Heartless?”

“Yeah, they stole Ritch’s heart, kidnapped Spoiled, and left Diamond alone. And the Spoiled in my reflection wasn’t evil, just a good mare making bad decisions.”

“Hmm…” Cript then made a screen appear in thin air. I saw two faces of Spoiled Rich. “Hmm… Interesting.”

“What is it? Cause as much as becoming a god is cool and I need to learn my powers, I still need to be home before dinner.” I said as I swore I heard Wolf shouting ‘Whipped!’

“Well, each Reflection has their own take on it’s people’s genetics and history. Genetically Zeke’s and your reflections spoiled are 97.8% the same, the difference only being the yours is Equin and Zeke’s is Anthropomorphic. History wise the only difference was that Zeke’s Spoiled grew up in poverty and was neglected even basic happiness because her parents only ever cared about money, but your Spoiled grew up with quite the happy life, only changing when she arrived and married Filthy Rich in Ponyville. Other than that these two could pass for the same mare. Well, they are but multiverse wise even they’d be hard to tell apart.”

“So Zeke’s Spoiled grabbed the multiverse equivalent of her doppelganger but for what? My Soiled would never do anything wrong, much less if it would harm DT.” I questioned.

“I have no idea. But, good news on that is when more than one Reflection’s same person is in the same area they tend to warm the flow of dimensional energy around them. So, I can track where she might be, get your DT her mother back at least.”

“But here is the question, is that a part of Zeke’s Spoiled plans…” I said, bringing up the good point. “She is far more knowledgeable than she lets on, even more so now that Kexez is working with her.”

“Yeah. So then, question is what is there plain and is it already too late…” Cript said, the screen flashing. “Found her. Zeke’s Spoiled is in Core’s castle, yours is in there too, but in dungeon cell D-55.”

“I’m heading in there.” I said as I started to slither on the water. “Diamond deserves a mother, and That bitch doesn't deserve to be amongst anything of Core’s.” I’ll admit, my friendship with my once enemy does have something to do with my anger. Besides gray may not be good. But it sure as hell ain't evil. “Besides, this way I get real test of my powers outside my own realm.”

“Alright then. Good luck. I can drop you off on her floor but what you’ll be fighting I have no idea.”

I smiled. “As long as I am successful, I’m sure the girls will understand.” I said as I prepared to teleport.

“Good luck.”

This dungeon cell was...long. Really long. I was at the entrance it seemed, cell D-00 and D-01 on my sides. Inside them where… dear god. In cell D-00 was this computer, a Heartless symbol on it’s screen and blood all over it’s Keyboard… not gonna question it. Cell D-01 had this Floating head of a Darkside just staring at me. I shook my head before darting down the cells. Damn did I get a speed increase. I actually over shot 55 for a moment before going back.

I saw Diamond’s mother here, her cell has a bed, bucket, and that was it. She looked rather abused, bruises, beat up, old and new scars, a still bleeding cut and stitches littered her body. Her coat was all mange and her mane and tail where shaved clean off. Frankly if it wasn’t for Cript telling me this was her cell I would not have guessed that this was her.

“Spoiled? Stars what did they do to you…” I thought out loud, informing her of my presence.

“Ah!” She yelped, immediately backing into the farmost corner of her cell. “P-please. Not again. It's barely been two hours…”

“Spoiled, it’s me Eclipse. Diamond misses you.” I said “Your butler has been doing a fine job, but she misses her mother.”

“E-Eclipse?” She said, looking me over. “N-no. You’re a snake monster. Eclipse is a pony like me...was like me.”

I groaned before turning into my Equin form “I’m the One and only Eclipse. I adopted Scootaloo and the entire orphanage, Married Luna, Shy and am planning to do so with Dash, I have been unseen for the last year, and I have these two handfuls.” I said, summoning Oath and Oblivion for the first time since my ascension. “Now, Come on, your daughter is waiting.”

“...How are you here? Did those monsters drag you here too?”

“Nope!” i said with my signature grin as I aimed oath at the door to unlock it. “I came here for you. It was hard seeing a little filly hurt so much.”

“Tiara, she’s alive? I thought those monsters…”

“She is alive, and she misses you. She has had nightmares almost every night.” I said, opening the door for the earth pony mare. “Come on, Equestria awaits.” I said, offering my hoof.

Before she even moved a hoof out of her corner I was blasted, knocked over as an Embodiment charged me, Soul Eater in it’s hands. “Sorry, boss says no one escapes.” They spoke. The fact they look like kids is creepy as all hell.

Puting the creep factor into the back of my mind, I let my power flow. ‘Oath, Oblivion. I did it. Now, let's use it.’ I spoke to them as I calmly walked up to the embodiment, letting off my killing intent. “Now now, don’t you know it’s rude to interrupt a hopeful moment?”

“Rules are rules.” He said, charging darkness along his weapons.

I smiled as I coated mine in gray. We clashed, grey and darkness pulsating with each hit. This Embodiments size makes it hard to hit when the chance presents itself. I smiled sadly, words coming to me as my gray flared, overshadowing the darkness. “Finis perdolente. May you know peace in the next life.” I said before surrounding the two of us in a collapsing bubble of gray. “This is your end.” I unsummoned Oath and Oblivion before drawing my shield and humanity blade.

As I was ready to impale the child...his hand grabbed the Humanity blade, stopping it dead and immobilizing my attack. They looked up at me, a wide smile on their face. “Nu uh. I don’t wanna be saved.” He then yanked the blade from my hand, and tossed it to the side. “I want to D.I.E.” He spoke, eyes covered in black as his body began to change. Where a pale skinned kid stood now was crowing a skeletal monster akin to the Dark Wraiths of Dark Souls, eyes glowing yellow and a Soul Eater BUSTER SWORD in hand. “C.A.N. Y.O.U. K.I.L.L. M.E.?” His voice sounded like nailed on chalkboard in a throat.

I sighed, pulling out my pistol and shooting at them. “I have a problem with killing kids. It’s a good thing I’m facing a monster hm?” I said as I swapped my pistol for Better half, wielding it in one hand while the shield remained in the other.

The bullet ricocheted off, it not even flinching as it gazed at me. “M.Y. N.A.M.E. I.S. E.N.V.Y. C.A.N. Y.O.U. K.I.L.L. M.E.?”

“Yes, Yes I can and will kill you.” I said, my eyes turning into their origin silver as I’ve started to call it. “Question is, can you kill me?”

“W.E. W.I.L.L. S.E.E. W.O.R.T.H.Y O.P.P.O.N.E.N.T.”

I took a stance, my breath fading. I don't even need it truly, it is just a comfort. Right now though, I need every bit of focus on the opponent in front of me. Being comfortable can wait.

We clashed. I warped us Quickly somewhere outside so not to harm any nice prisoners or Spoiled, and we clashed, Grey and Darkness pulsating and we clashed hits. Envy was a powerful one, before I might not have had much chance, but as is now I feel pretty matched with this guy. Neither of us can land a blow on each other, but neither is falting either. I wasted no time to talk like I normally do, too much was riding on this.

With a parry with my shield against their greatsword, I rushed in, swiping at full strength, backed up by Gray. “Sub Zero!” I say, creating my own spell higher than Blizzaga as I covered everywhere in gray ice.

I saw Envy frozen over...as he broke out, fog breath once all the ice fell off him. “I.M.P.R.E.S.S.I.V.E. T.R.Y. H.A.R.D.E.R.” Envy said, shooting off a shotlock of Dark Volly while also Dark Impulsing me, grabbing me in that demon hand thing and crushing the wind out of me, making sure every projectile hit as he finished his attack by tossing me up, and letting me fall towards his raised sword.

I reaction commanded and deflected his blade before activating Time Splicer at the same time as Rainbow’s Drive form. My coat became Rainbow’s cyan blue as I charged at Envy at speeds even I didn't know existed. Thousands of attacks, hundreds of slashes, all within a blink of an eye.

By the time the attack ended, Envy’s body became chipped and damaged, as was his weapon. I pulled back and charged my blade, powering it for a single, powerful strike. “Envy, you truly have been a worthy foe, but let us finish this.”

“A.G.R.E.E.D.” Envy charged his blade, Darkness coating the breaking blade like a dark version of Blade Charge. We both ran at one another. We clashed, crossing paths til we stopped.

I felt a chunk of my right arm fall off, blood spewing out like a fountain… Envy. Envy collapsed, his body changing back to that of a child's. I walked over to him, ignoring the pain on my arm as I cast a quick Curga on myself. “Envy, if you are still there, You were a true challenge. Rest easy knowing you went down swinging.”

“So...this is death then?” He asked, reaching towards the sky. “We have been craving this feeling, for so, so long. I can’t believe...I am the first to go.”

“Now they will be the ones in envy.” I said, sitting next to him, making sure he is not alone during the finale.

“Heh. Too long have we lived. Too long have we walked this reality. We’ve seen it all. Done everything...It feels nice, to finally experience something new. The end of it all. Eve was right, working for Kexez, would lead us to the deaths we craved.”

“Hey, When you get to your after life, wait up for me alright?” I smiled. “We all have an end, even the eternal. Be at peace, you earned it.”

“Heh, that’s funny. For as long as we have lived, we learned one thing about us. We don’t have an after life.” With that, Envy’s body disintegrated into ashes, a small, foul black orb of the purest darkness was all that remained. It took to the air, and floated along, as if heading somewhere.

I sighed before warping back to the cells. “Spoiled, I’m back.”

But she was gone. Panicked, I looked around, seeing a trail of some blood leading down the hall. Rushing over, I came across a room labeled ER, and the light was red. The blood trail ended at it’s doors.

I entered in, blasting through the doors. No, I came her to give Diamond back her mother, I will not fail! “Spoiled!” I yelled, looking around the room.

I was met with a doctor, cutting her open...awake. “What the-” Was all the ‘good’ doctor said before I threw Oblivion into his skull with enough speed to impale his whole body into the wall with the drag force. I cast heal on Spoiled, hoping whatever that mad man was doing to her wasn’t bad. I then took out and off all this morbid equipment and changed into naga form and carried her.

After she was safe in my healing stomach, and yes, I double checked to make sure Devorer was off, I opened a DT...G? Alright, a DTG and sprinted through.

I ended up outside of Ponyville. I slowed as the DTG closed, and I felt along the lump where Spoiled was. She wasn’t panicking. Out cold. Her breathing was steady. I sprinted towards the hospital, knowing they wouldn’t have moved it in this time as I shouted. “Out of the way, Emergency!” Clearing the way. She may be safe in me, but I am no expert in medicine.

After hacking her up carefully, she actually looked a lot better. The doctors took her and began performing examinations as they took her into a room. When I knew she was safe I allowed myself to breath finally. I looked at my arm, thankful that it had healed. “I did it… I saved a life… finally.” I closed my eyes allowing a small smile. I stayed there in the hospital, waiting for the news from the Docs.

It was hours gone by, time passing as the sun rising before a nurse came up to me. “She’s stable. Whatever that stuff that she was in when she was inside your stomach kept her well and now she’s stable, but asleep.”

I sighed in relief. “Thanks Doc. Would you mind if I send a visitor over to see her?” I asked, thinking of DT

“Not at the time. Currently her immune system in in the toilet. She has no white blood cells. The fact she wasn’t dead sooner is a miracle in itself. She has to stay in a quarantine chamber that is completely sanitary. The most anypony can do is see her through the plastic.”

“Trust me, who I want to send over will be happy just to know she is alive.” I say before thinking. “Hey, if you want, I could let you get a sample of my ointments in my stomach. They could be useful for everyone in the medical field.”

“Hm, well that goop from inside you did heal her physical wounds as we were setting her up in the ER and while we kept those samples we could use some fresh ones.”

“Alright, get something to hold it and I’ll swallow you. Kick twice and I’ll let you back out, alright?” I tell the doc. She blushed madly, slowly nodding and heading off...why do ponies find this so...wait, right, prey category animals… god does every mare have a vore fetish? … Honestly not like I mind but still.

She came back with a sample bottle and I downed her. She was in there...for a while, before wanting to be let out. I rolled my eyes as I let her out, her coat covered in the goop as I smiled. “Enjoy yourself?”

She was in total...I know that face...did she...she did… she just happily walked off, good trailing off as she did… fucking hell she better not appear at the house… I think Dash might wanna kill me for that.

“Great… the good doc came inside me….” I shook my head before heading off back to the house. The girls will understand when I explain what I did, getting Spoiled back.

I headed home and told the girls everything, arriving before the kids woke up. Dash was miffed, but more so at that horny nurse. Luna just fantasized and Shy just rolled her eyes. The girls told me to rest up since I was technically gone and up all night so I did need the sleep.

It was hard telling Shy and Dash about becoming a god. It was only slightly easier with Luna as it means she won’t have to worry about me leaving so soon, but the rest of them… I never wanted Immortality, but it is the price I pay for them. I sighed as I closed my eyes in our bedroom. Make the memories last, that is all I can do.

I was dreaming, feeling like I was elsewhere. When I could make it all out I saw… I was in the Keyblade Graveyard. I tried to look around, to know what drew me to dream of the Graveyard besides the coming war.

I felt something behind me. Quickly, I raised my shield. The shockwave from the impact sent the Keyblades flying in all directions. I saw Zeke, my attacker. X-blade in hand, and a crown of light and darkness atop his head. His eyes were blue, like that heart shaped moon.

“Zeke?! What the hell man!” I shout as I fling X away with the shield and summon Better Half.

He didn’t reply. Reply, rather, he raised his other hand...and better half went to him. His chest glowed with a blue and black that… is this what Lord, the Kingdom Key D and Cript where saying about Zeke claiming that power but now wanting it?

“Zeke, this isnt like you. Since when have you ever wanted more power?” I asked, tapping into my Gray just so I can hold my ground. Against Zeke, with no X-blade, I won’t win, but I won't make it easy. “Come on man, We’re Cousins. We have fought beside each other and bleed for one another. Tell me what is going on!”

Still, he didn’t speak. I think… Kneel. I felt a pain in my chest, like my heart getting crushed as I was forced to the floor. My body...did not respond, and that pain… kept getting worse… I saw Zeke walk up to me...that’s the power Zeke can acquire...total control over Keyblades...and Hearts… everyone's heart… Rise. Still on my knees… human body huh? I looked up to him, arms restricted to my sides.

And I smiled. I opened my mouth, despite the pain. “I challenge you.” I said, trying to force myself up despite my heart's protests. “Grey bows to no one, for it is everyone.”

Zeke placed X and Better Half into the ground. He placed a single finger over my chest...as my heart floated out into his grasp. He showed it to me...and shattered it. I felt...fear. Behind him, my eyes catching COUNTLESS bodies. I looked around. Keyblades...and their wielders...

Motes of gray started to float off my body as I finally had full control… for how long who knows… but I won’t waste this… “You are not Zeke, but a pretender.” I said as I walked to him, staring him in the eyes. “Now know you killed your family. Know you have ended everything you have built to protect. Know that the peace you now seek? Is no peace but a personal hell. As as one last parting gift.” I fill my entire body with all the power from my realm, Knowing what it would do. “See you in hell!” I say as my body erupts with grey Orgin, a last ditch effort in defiance.

As I was about to blow, Zeke grabbed my face. “Stop.” He said...it’s gone… where did all my grey go?! Between his fingers, I saw his face. “This is why I was born. This is why I was created.” We were suddenly eye to eye...but those eyes… those where black, and red… Psychopath…”Cousin.” He said, flashing those inhuman teeth...and ripping out my neck...eating me…

I woke up in cold sweat, grabbing my neck...I could...I could feel it… What IS Zeke? Why was Psychopath so dominant? Why do I still feel the pain of having my heart crushed and my throat torn out… What would drive Zeke to do that to family… I sat there, shivering, feeling true fear for the first time in my life, besides the time Core attacked my wedding.

What did he mean… ‘this is why I was born. This is why I was created?’ I mean, I know he’s Cript’s reflection...

I was like this for a while until one of the girls came in to check on me.

“Eclipse?” Fluttershy asked, looking at me and knowing something was up. “Are you alright? Luna felt you where having a nightmare.”

“It felt like more…” I said before shaking it off. I… I have to trust in Zeke, and if he starts to head down that path, be there to drag him back to his wifes. I’m sure Rune will set him straight… and gay… and really everything cause holy hell is that mare scary. “I’ll be fine, Just… Hope it was just a dream.”

“Well, we told Tiara about her mother. She ran off to the hospital, Scootaloo and her friends and Silver Spoon chased after her.”

“Heh, glad for her. It wasn't easy getting Spoiled back.” I said, smiling at my angelic wife

“So, what should we do today, assuming you’re spending it here?”

“I am” I chuckled. “And I was thinking on taking you all out on a date, maybe officially proposing to Dash. Oh and Shy, Did I mention me being a god already?” I asked.

“Yes.” She said. “Don’t care.” She said, nuzzeling me.

”So, how did the operation go?”

“Perfect. He took her back as expected. We lost the doctor and Envy, a small price to pay.”

“So Eclipse got strong then. This war just keeps getting better and better.”

Motherhood

View Online

Breakfast was simple, but good. With that done I took the kids to school. Cheerlie’s school changed a lot. What was once a one room school house now was three times the size and had three floors. Cheerilee actually greeted me at the entrance. “Eclipse. Long time no see.” She said. Her normal sundress replaced with a yellow suit and green tie.

“Hey Cheer, how’s it been?” I asked with a caring smile.

“Good, all things considered. With all the children that arrived after Daybreak fell, we had to expand the school house. And, heh, it’s Principle Cheerilee now…” She said, scratching the back of her head.

“Really? Nice, you’ve earned it from putting up with the crusaders alone!” I laughed, patting her shoulder before going back to a respectable distance.

“Heh, to be honest I sometimes prefer those days better. The paperwork can be a real pain. Then again Grading papers was just as bad.” She said. “So, now that you are back would you come with me in my office? There are some things I’d like to catch you up on.”

I shrugged. “Sure. Don’t have any plans today that can’t wait for later.” I said. I was planning on talking to the girls and planing what life should be made in my realm, but my children are more important that the ones I have yet to make.

We headed inside. Cheerilee’s office was the size of the old classroom...it was the old classroom. They literally added to the small schoolhouse. I took a seat, as did she at her desk. “So, I know you were gone for a year. Is there anything you wish to know off the bat?”

“Uh, well I guess the first thing is how the kids are doing in class. You don’t have to list them all, just a over all and anything notable.” I said with a smile, knowing Cheer would do just that if I didn’t clarify.

“Well overall your kids seem to average B’s, some A’s, and the C’s… Save for Scootaloo and Pura…”

“Oh? What is up with those two?” I asked.

“Well Scootaloo is on a D average. Now while that is not technically failing her classes she won’t make the required grade point average to avoid summer school this year. As for Pura… Well she’s an odd one. She passes every test and exame she gets but has never turned in any of her homework assignments. This is keeping her at a B average in her classes, otherwise she’d be an A student. I’ve talked with her, Luna and Fluttershy but so far no results.”

“Hmm, I’ll try and see if I can help Scoots with her studying, and emphasize that she would have as much of a fun summer if she doesn’t put in effort. With Pura… sweet thing she is, I’ll see if maybe it requires a father’s touch.” I smiled softly. “Alright, next question, How has the school system changed?”

“Well on top of having lunch served here rather than it being brought from home by everyone, computers have been installed...and life has never been easier.” She chuckled. “Other than that, nothing too big.”

“And other than keyblade wielders, are there any combat training classes?” I asked. “Mainly for self defence.”

“Well the eighth grade gym classes teach Keyblade combat. As such all students with Keyblades are registered into the system as well.”

“What about those without?” I asked. “Not everyone can wield a keyblade or is even given one.”

“Well that’s all up to the parents in the end. Since these lessons come from Daybreak some parents agreed to letting their children inherit a Keyblade, and some have not. Those who have not received standard gym class activities.”

“Well… I could offer self defense classes for those without keyblades.” I offered. “I’m not leaving anytime soon unless I have no choice, and I know more than just keyblades now.”

“Hmm, well we do have some money in the budget for an extra class program and teacher. If enough parents sign their foals up for it I don’t see why not. I’ll get letters with slips sent home and the students will return them in their classes on a later date.” Cheerilee said. “Now then, onto some...less than enjoyable matters…”

“Alright, lay it on me.” I said, mentally preparing myself for the worst.

“Well, to start off with some months back Morphia Runner was in a fight with some bullies.”

“And they ended up in casts, right?” I asked, knowing phia.

“...They ended up on life support Eclipse. Morphia Runner is currently expelled for this.”

I sighed. “That's what I get for adopting a child soldier.” I mumbled just low enough for Cheer to not hear. “I’ll stop by the hospital and offer to heal them. How is Phia getting her education now?”

“Given her...abnormal strength. She was shipped to a military school in Phillidelphia. She gets her education there as well as discipline and a possible future in the Equestrian guard… assuming she doesn't have another incident. She’s allowed visitors whenever but she can only come home on holidays.”

“Now I have something to plan later.” I said to myself as I thought. ‘Lets hope Military school doesn't Trigger my little one’s PTSD...’ “So, that explains why I haven't seen her around the house.”

“Yes. The whole ordeal was quite worrisome. Well, onto the next matter. Chicken Chaser was caught running a casino in the school’s basement, and was selling, and dear Celestia I have no idea how he acquired this, Issues of Playpony magazines to the upper year foals. He’s in detention for the next month and your wives have confiscated his wears.”

“That's my boy!” I laugh before seeing her look. I composed myself. “I mean, it was impressive, but wrong, very wrong.” I said with a straight face, though my eyes held mirth.

“Yes...Quite.” Cheerilee huffed. “And Xena Jiiva used her unique...breath to overgrow her brocale in the lunchroom last week to get out of a test. While it makes a nice centerpiece, even sprouted roots so that thing is there to stay, it was costly and damaged a water pipe.”

“Well it is kinda hard teaching her. Dragon’s like her are rare and in dragon culture considered freaks, so there is no one to teach her how her breath works. I hope the girls covered the damages in my name?”

“They did...we now have your debit card on file…”

“Of course…”

“Verum Imperium has been fine, just some overdue library books is all. She needs to return them and pay the fines or replace them.” Cheerilee said. “Sciath Irma has been injuring herself, and several others trying to be a hero and stop ‘fights’ which ranged from friendly criticisms to arm wrestling… she even broke a leg stopping a fight...between the school’s wrestling club members…”

“Yesh, Yeah I’ll talk to her. It’s good wanting to be a protector, but that’s a bit far.”

“Cutting Winds has been making toy swords in woodshop...while not bad they are...scarily sharp.” Cheerilee demonstrated by pulling one out, it’s edges looked rather sharp for wood. She dropped it on her desk.. And it embedded itself into her desk wood top. “While this is amazing quality, these can hurt somepony.”

I had no words for a moment. “I guess he does take after me, making a weapon from anything, but holy hell, I didn’t even do that when I showed up everyone in the guard at age 8. I’ll tell him the difference between a real blade and a wood one and why wood is supposed to be dull.”

“Thank you.” She said. “Gerald and Greka...oh boy… These two where caught stealing school property. Such as, The school Bell, the school’s marker supply, every classroom computer’s mouse, every book in the library with the word ‘gold’ in the title, a dozen staplers, already graded tests, the teachers breakroom coffee maker, the school’s primary printer’s ink cartridge, the fire extinguishers, money from bullies who stole it from other students, and a toilet… I mean, how did they even get that last one off the ground?!”

I whistled, keeping in mind to not teach those two my tricks…. When their mothers are around. “Impressive, but I’ll try and talk to them… wow I’m going to be talking to most of them before the end of the day.” I chuckled.

“And lastly...Scootaloo…”

“What’s up with Scoots?”

She cleared her throat...oh boy. “Using her Keyblade outside of gym class, casting magic outside gym class, setting the girls bathroom on fire, setting the boys bathroom on fire, setting the teachers bathroom on fire, setting two teachers on fire, setting the toilet water on fire, freezing the water fountain into a block of ice, streaking, while normally clothes are not a big deal for ponies her new...upper half offended some students and parents. Bestoying Keyblades to students whose parents denied Keyblade related activities, freezing the librarian in solid ice, electrocuting the janitor, unleashing a horde of grasshoppers into the hall, somehow setting the water itself on fire, putting goo powder in her teachers coffee, creating storm clouds in class, littering, graffiti in the halls...eating students… and lastly terrorizing older student bullies.”

“How is that last one bad?” I asked, genuinely confused.

“Her biting. Her...unique venom paralyzed them for nine hours…”

“Well, that's bad, but still, better than the other type of venom she could be using. Too much of that could kill them.” I said with a shrug. “Still, I’ll talk to all of them sometime today. Something tells me a majority of it is coping, while the rest is just discipline problems.”

“Well while they are good foals Eclipse, not having their father around for a whole year takes a toll.” She said, hitting me hard with her words. “I know you are a good stallion, but even the Royal guards manage duty and family. You need to do the same.”

I sighed. “I know. I figured that out quickly after I returned earlier this week. That’s why unless it is something unavoidable, I want to spend as much time as I can with my family. Cheer… I won’t lie to you. You know that attack that drove the Daybreakers here? Soon there is going to be an unavoidable battle… one that even the kids are going to be forced to fight, and possibly kill or be killed in. I want to make the most of the time we have before that hell.”

“Eclipse…” Cheerilee said, reaching into her desk and pulling out a book. The title was some other language. “This is a copy of a rulebook on Keyblades and Keyblade Warfare, written by someone from those first days. It was published upon them hearing the news of this new war. The language isn’t hard to translate. It states that while bound by Keyblade a wielder must partake in protecting the light, a Dandelion is void of this rule for they shall keep the light safe at home. If the children agree to become the new Dandelions, they don’t have to fight, and be safe.”

“Yeah, but we both know some will refuse. I was away to get stronger so I could protect them all, but I lost sight of what I was gaining power for. Now I am back, and I won’t lose sight again.” I said

“Yes, but it also states that unless the refuser is a Keyblade master, their master can order them to stay behind. None of these children will be of that rank or title or whatever. And none are. The kids will be fine, and Justin said he can lock the world so none of them can leave.”

“I hope you’re right. My bloodline has made a habit of screwing the rules if they don't believe in them.” I chuckled. “But thanks Cheer, it is a relief they you made failsafes for them.”

“It’s what the Schools do best. Well, that’s all. Oh, and here.” She said, bringing up a file from the floor and dropping it on her desk. “This is all of Pure’s missing homework. If you’d kindly take this to her and make sure she does it.”

I chuckled. “Alright, I’ll make sure she starts turning some in before the endo the the week.” I said, storing it into my Assistant and marking it as important. “Well, you have a nice day Cheer, and it was good to talk to you again.”

“Same. Oh, and before you go. Spring break is in a week. It’s two weeks free from school. My advice, take a family vacation. Morphia Runner is authorized this time off already so she’ll be home the day before the break starts. I expect your kids will come back to school perfect angels...and less and Scootaloo and some of the others may require homeschooling… Understood?”

“I understand. Worst that happens I send a message to their grandfather and ask for his tutors…. And the kids won’t like that one bit.” I said with a smile. “Take it easy Cheerilee, you earned it.”

“If I can I will.” She said, waving me bye as I left. I went back home and after placing Pura’s homework on the table I checked in on the infants. Shy was with them.

“How’s the little ones?” I asked as I slithered over and gave her a peck.

“Good. They’ve all eaten their fills. Just burping Jr and then they’ll all be tucked in for their naps.” Shy said, Jr burping aloud as Shy placed him down in his crip, tucking him in and giving him a kiss on the forehead. Soon, like the others, he drifted off to slumber.

“They are just adorable.” I said softly, tucking in Jr with care.

“Yeah. They’ll nap for some hours before needing us again. Anything you wanna do till then?”

“Well, I was thinking on warping over and giving Phia a small visit.”

“Oh, that would be nice...when I heard what she had done, we asked her why… she didn’t wanna talk. Those poor foals are still in the hospital.”

“Yeah, I was also going to stop by and Offer to heal them with my advanced magic. It won’t make up for what will be mental scars, but it will at least let them function.” I said. “Though, I wonder what made her snap. Phia always was gentle around us, then again, so am I and you’ve seen me fight.”

“Who knows. I know one of the bullies is awake, but no pony is allowed to visit him other than his parents.”

“Then I’ll ask the parents and put the spell in a liquid state so they can give it to him.” I shrug. “One way or another, I figure we owe the families.”

“That would be a good idea. Well then, go on and say hi to Phia for me. Oh! Wait a moment.” Shy said, rushing out. After a few moments she came back with a small box. “A little care package, some home cooking, her favorite toy, book, and a photo of us all.”

I smiled, remembering the photo. It was the only one we took all together after I adopted all of them. “I’ll make sure to give it to her. Oh and when I get back, I’ll need to talk with almost all the kids.”

“I figured…” Shy sighed out. “Talked with Cheerilee?”

“Yeah… though we both agree is probably has a bit to do with me not being in their life for the last year.” I said. “Don’t worry, Scoots helped bring me out of a funk I was in about that already, but I still need to talk to them.”

“Yes. Yes you do.” She agreed without a moment's hesitation.

I smiled and gave her a kiss. “Well I’m off. THe papers on the table are all Pura’s missing homework.” I said, starting for the door.

“Oh good. No idea where she hides or disposes of them.” Shy said as I left, warping to Philidelphia. I appeared outside the military school- I mean prison’s gate. Jesus any more grey brick and barb wire and this can be a prison. Entering, I spotted some students doing exercises. Phia was there, pushups with her arms and weight lifting like nine bricks with her tail.

“Alright, Phia! That’s ten laps! Move it!” A familiar voice shouted as Phia nodded, dropping her current exercise and bolted down the track… that voice… I know that voice… that was the only son of a bitch I respected in bootcamp.

“Ten Pushups Eclipse!” The voice of my old teacher, Commander Rock Crusher said. Old instinct and habit kicked in as I rushed and did Ten push ups. “Heh, still a runt I see.” The elder pegasus laughed.

“Just instinct sir.” I chuckled as I stood up. “Though we both know in a one on one, I win, but against any squads you are giving orders to? Stars have mercy.”

“Hehe. Let’s not forget the punishments. Stars where you a glutton for my special. Can ya still taste the latrine cleaner on your tongue maggot?”

“Everytime I use the latrine sir!” I laughed

He chuckled. “So, here to visit your filly now?”

“Yes sir. I just came back from… let’s call it extensive training in hell a few days back and heard she was transferred here.” I informed in a lax but still military manner.

“Yeah. Put six colts and one rather buff filly five years older than her in the ER. Gotta say, that’s how I knew she was yours.” He laughed.

“Heh, yeah, taking on literally every guard and trainee at once and still coming off with only one nick because I got carless at 8 builds a reputation Sir.” I chuckled.

“Heh, yeah. She’s a good filly. But Eclipse, there’s a rage and bloodlust in her that reminded me of them Monsters that invaded a year ago. She’s got some nasty demons, but I’m training them for her...heheh.” The old pony chuckled. “Already she’s combating cadets twice her age and only dislocates their bones rather than breaking them.”

“Heh, I wonder where she gets that from…” I said, letting off a little bit of my own… the same bloodlust that scared off a manticore. Long story, don’t ask.

“Yeah, she’s a wild one. She’s something else. A wild wolf got on property a week ago, she swiped it with her tail, and snapped that hangy thing in half right before our eyes. Heh, she’s a living weapon. Might even beat you one day.”

“I hope so. When the only threats to me are multiversal disasters, It’s good to know at least someone normal could beat me in a fair fight.” I smiled.

“Fair? Heh, son your daughter fights dirtier than a sewer rat. Sorry ta tell ya, but you ain’t got not angel, you got a little devil on your hooves.”

“Even better.” I grinned a smile that only Rock Crusher would know, the one that scared him when I was a little kid. “Means I get to teach her how to fight dirtier when I get the chance.”

“Heheh, there’s the face that keeps me from a restful nights sleep. Course since you where last under my wings I’ve developed a much, much more cruel and unusual punishment for her. Whenever she goes out of line.”

“Oh? Learned that your punishments didn’t do squat to me, so you updated it on my children? Clever.”

“Not just your kids, I’ve been waiting for the day you saw me again...this just gave me the best possible out one.” He said. “Phia! Report!” At his command my little girl rushed over to between us. “Say hello.”

“Hi dad!” She said, happy to see me.

“Hey Phia, Been good for my old Commander?” I said with a wink, knowing she has been giving hell.

“Eh...Define good…?” She said.

Crusher laughed. “She’s yours alright. Phia, mind tellin’ your dear old dad what my punishments for you are?”

“Sir!” She said, saluting. “My dreams are altered into constant nightmares of myself killing my family sir!”

I turned to Crusher. “Yup, you finally learned the one thing that would have been a suitable punishment for me.” I said, slightly in awe, and slightly terrified that he could have came up with this before I did my All Vs me stunt.

“Yeah. Cruel and detailed. That fear of what she could do, but doesn’t want to is what keeps her keeping herself in check. Make sure the images keep flashing in her mind throughout the days, your screams haunt her whenever the room goes silent. She wakes up vomiting some mornings, screaming the rest.”

“Sir, not that It’s not effective, but isn't that a bit far?” I asked. “Nightmares, sure, but having them persist is a bit much.”

“Eclipse, you know me. I’m not a good stallion. Hell I’m as morally bankrupt as you can get. But I am good at what I do, so recruits like you, like her.” He said, placing a hoof on Phia...I wanted to punch him for that… “Are loyal to Equestria, and will gladly, blindly, die for our kingdom. You know this. We both took the same oath to the crown. We just take different paths to fulfilling that oath of honor.”

I nodded before thinking for a moment. “Sir, if I may, I would like to show my daughter a thing or two. Show her not only how a naga fights, but” and I turned to Phia, letting my eyes flash. “To let both our demons do the talking, and show her the difference between a honed one vs a wild one.”

“Trying to teach her different than?” He asked.

I shook my head. “More of give her an example. She is your student, your trainee, not mine.” I said with a smile. “I just want to show her what she could one day be if she focuses that bloodlust into a fine blade.”

“Hmm… Procede, maggot.”

“Aye aye Sir!” I smiled, giving him a crisp Salute before walking over to a training ring. “Cadet Runner, enter the other side of the ring!” I barked like the drill sergeants did, Specifically the one standing not far away.

To my surprise though...Phia did nothing. She just stood there… “Heheh, move along child.” Crusher said, Phia nodding as she started off towards where I said to go...something’s up here…

And I’m afraid. I sighed, I’m only going to hold back gray on her, simply because that stuff allows me to fight Embodiments, and that’s a bit much… however, I said nothing about Insanity. I took a breath as I looked across at Phia, reading her eyes.

They were dull, like she either isn’t there or is asleep. Not good… I know that look too well. “Crusher, Sir, rules of engagement are up to you.” I said, staring into her eyes without flinching, hoping the life and energy in mine could possibly transfer in any way. A part of me was dying seeing her like this, but I can’t let easy on her.

“...Give him hell filly.” He smiled.

Shit. Without hesitating I drew Better half before charging in a flash, letting loose my bloodlust as I charged. I took a swing at her, preparing to use my tail when she blocks the strike. “Prudentiam doceant adolescentulas.” I said, focusing my entire being into the phrase.

...She took the hit, and bled...bad. Shit, I wasn’t even using Gray. I winced as I used my tail to strike her other side and try and fling me back. “Shit…”

She took the other hit, a huge gash along her side...more blood. Why won’t she fight back? “Phia, this is meant to be a spar, not a punching bag. You are meant to give me…” it then clicked. ‘Give me hell…’ that sick fuck. I growled, my gray flowing off me in scores as the very reality around me cracked slightly. “Crusher. You better rephrase your orders to MY DAUGHTER before I do something both of us will regret.” I said coldly, my voice only increasing from soft to emphasize my daughter.

“Heh, if you insist.” Crusher said. “Phia...Attack.”

I felt pain… I looked down. Phia was wrapped around me, arms UNDER my skin and squashing my upper intestines… Too bad for both of them, this pain…

Is….Nothing.

I ripped Phia out of me without hesitation, not caring that my guts spilled out before tossing her back to the other side. My wounds stitched themselves in an instant as I slowly slithered forward, my eyes silver instead of red, staring into Phia’s emotionless eyes.

She got up, eyes still dead as she looked at me. My eyes held so much emotion, regret, despair, love, joy, hope, hate, all emotions I have felt for her and my time away. Gray smoke bled out the corners of my eyes as I continued forward, one set of words leaving my mouth as I closed the distance slowly.. “I’m sorry.”

She didn't say anything. Breathing slowly...then...she wasn’t. It was then I realized...her wounds didn’t heal...she lost too much blood! Fueled by fear, by regret, I added as much gray and magic to my spell as I could. “CURAGA!” I shouted, Summoning Oath and Oblivion as well, using all three keys to also fuel the spell.

“Hehehe...So how does it feel.” Crusher said, walking up to me slowly. “Did I break ya yet?”

I growled loudly, swiftly turning around to him as I summoned...EVERYTHING! All my drive forms, all my powers, EVeRYTHING! Reality broke around me as I charged at him, going faster than even my fight against the Embodiment, with just as much lethality. “My family is the only reason I was away! You think I wanted to Leave?! I wanted to gain power to Protect them, to protect her! Yet because of you, she didn’t stop! You brainwashing peace of shit!” I yelled, my body becoming what I feel is my true astral form as it didn’t feel like any other body I have ever had.

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You attacked first.” He said calmly. “Isn’t that right Eclipse?”

My power didn’t diminish, if anything my will to fight only increased, cracking reality that much more. “Yes, but you knew what you said to her. Give me hell, not kick my ass! So she gave me my worst hell!” I yelled, kicking him upwards with enough force to turn any normal mortal to paste, But I know this man isnt normal as I launched up with him. “My worst hell, l have two of them. Being the cause for their death, like her.” I grabbed him in mid air before stabbing him. “Or not being there when they need me, and Guess what? I’ve now lived both!” I yelled as we started to freefall… back into atmosphere.

“...YES!” He shouted...everything suddenly phasing away…. I’m back at the entrance. “Finally! I pissed you off!” Crusher was...cheering, what the fuck?

“Heh, sorry dad.” I turned around, hugging Phia as she was...unharmed. I didn’t let go as I tried to control myself, my breath panting and shaky. “My little Phia…” I said, petting her mane.

“So, confused yet?” Crusher asked.

I turned back around to him with a growl. “Low blow, using it on me… be glad it was only in my mind, or I would have teleported my family away before blowing all of Equis to hell, innocents be damned.”

“Eclipse, it’s a personal goal of mine to piss off and break every cadet I ever teach. After little Phia here I’m retiring. Can’t screw with you physically. I ain’t got a death wish, so Phia here helped me and created that illusion in your head.”

“Guilty!” Phia said happily.

I couldn't stop my chuckle. “You are so my kid. Remember when your attempts failed and I started helping you break the others in new ways because I was bored with yours?”

“Yeah. That’s why I’m training Phia here to be my replacement some day. She’s a good kid, strong, and makes life hell for her fellow cadets here. All that nasty stuff in your illusion was all made up, worst I’ve done to this little evil angel of yours is make her clean the latrine with her toothbrush, then use to after every night she cleans them for a week.”

“I can still taste the piss…” Phia said, stick out out her tongue in memory.

“So basic stuff.” I chuckled. “Remember when you had me do it with my tongue because you couldn't stop my jokes, and all I did was say you were training me for future wifes?”

“From what I hear you where more right than you figured.” He chuckled, elbowing me in the side. “Princess, and the Elements of Kindness and Loyalty. Someone here has a feather fetish.”

I shrugged. “Their soft. Besides, I’m sure others are out there for me or other races without wings, But I sure as hell aint found them yet.” I chuckled before diverting my focus on Phia. “So kiddo, You got those demons under control?” I asked, sensing them in her still.

“Well I feel better...I was just pissed at those bullies for what they said…”

“I here you little one. I can’t count how many bullies thought they could pick on me and your auntie Twilight before I beat them off with Oblivion and Oathkeeper… and a few freeze spells… maybe a fireball or two… did I break that ones legs with my hooves or with the tree nearby…” i said, trying to be funny.

“Heh...They said you abandoned us cause we were all different and freaks…” She admitted, rubbing her arm.

“First off, I’m proud you defended your family. I honestly am, as much as sending them to the ER where they still remain is a bit much.” I said, remembering I need to stop off there before going back home. “Second off, I would never, ever abandon any of you. I’m sorry I was gone for so long… I wish I could take it back and spend as much time a I could with each of you and your siblings, you all deserve better.” I said, somberly.

“Well, spring break is coming up and I am allowed leave for it. Can we… go to the beach or something?”

I smiled. “Better, we’ll visit a beach where it is just you, your siblings and mothers, and me.” I said, rubbing her head. “And third, You are freaks. Every single one of you are. But, that isn't a bad thing. Be proud to be a freak. It means you are important, that you are different in ways others could only wish to be. And most of all, it means you are never boring. No one likes a boring character, but everyone loves those who stand amongst the crowds and give the world the finger.”

“Heh, that somehow helps.” She said. “So, did you bring me anything...and do I still get to keep it despite I made you think you killed me?”

I chuckled. “Yes, yes you do.” I said, summoning out her care package. “Thank Momma Shy for remembering it before I came.”

“Sweet!” She said, grabbing it and opening it. “Oh cool! Mom’s soup, burgers, and my favorite toy. Oh, and book!” She said, taking out the hamburger and eating it. “Stars I’ve missed this. The food here sucks.”

“It’s all as boring and plain as we can get it, while also tasting like vitamins from all the essential nutrients we legally have to have in it.” Crusher chuckled. “Try as they might, it will forever taste horrible.”

“Oh really? That’s not how I remember it…” I said with an evil grin, Crusher knowing I am, to this day, the only one that figured out how to make to taste good, much to the instructor's anger.

“Heh, want a plate for old times sake? There is ALWAYS leftovers.”

“You kidding? Awesome! Amazing that none of the recruits ever figured out the trick.” I said, secretly passing a small note and slipping it into Phia’s box with my tail.

“Heheh. Well come on then, I’m sure they’re surviving the leftovers from when you where a cadet.” Crusher said, the two of us laughing as Phia followed.

I hummed happily as we hit the mess hall, all of the cadets wondering what a civi is doing in the mess as I grabbed a tray. “Oh, Spicy, been a while!” I said to the cook behind the counter.

“Oh for the love of *#*(%$*#$(%&*(#*%(#&*%(#&($%&*$ $%(%$#%*&$” I censored that...that’s too much for this rating. I then duct down as he threw a latal at me. “I was hoping I’d never see you again!” The earth pony cook said angrily as ever.

“Ah, I love you too Spicy. What’s on the menu today?” I asked, my grin that he knows all too well never leaving my face.

“The same crap you ate all those years ago.” he huffed. Lifting the still full pot of grub and shoving it into my arms. “Have at it ya @**@#($*(*#(*(@” Again, his vulgar is too bad for a T rating.

I grinded, stars in my eyes as all the other Cadets stared in shock. “You are too kind my old pal.”

“Yeah yeah, just screw off already Potato peel.” Oh yeah, made me peel all the camp potatoes with my teeth for a month after the calling the General's wife smoking and smaking her flank...Wonder if they are still married? I shrugged before setting down my pot and going over to the side and grabbing a bunch of seemingly random stuff too quickly for the others to tell what I was grabbing before dumping it all into the pot and sitting down, digging in with gusto. Others, even the instructors that didn’t know me stopped what they were doing to stare in awe as I ate the whole thing with a smile.

I said goodbye to Phia and headed home. I made a quick stop at the hospital to give them the potions before heading back to the house. Once back I arrived with just enough time to catch Chicken Chaster enter the house.”Hey Chase, I need to talk to you.” I said, following the colt in.

He flinched. “Fuck…” He muttered, slithering over. “Uh, hey dad… So...I heard you talked with Principal Cheerilee….”

I chuckled. “Yes, and first off” I glanced around to make sure no responsible parents or teachers are around. “Nice job my boy. The level of organisation and cleaver planning required for something like that would make your auntie Twilight jelly.” I chuckled

“Uhhh….” He said.

“Now, I have to say this.“ I said, turning to a more serious tone. “Why?”

“Why...to which first? The Casino or the Magazines…?”

I rolled my eyes. “Both.” I chuckled “Look, whatever you say, you won’t be in any more trouble than you already are.”

“Well, in all honestly it was when I was in Sweet Apple Acres. I saw Flim throwing away a bunch of old books and even his old had. They detailed all kinds of scams and pyramid schemes that seemed...really easy to make. I grabbed them and the hat, and was just going off the ones I figured I could pull off. The Magazines one though was a total accident. They fell off a wagon that was transporting them from the train to a Pegasus mail order ship to Trottingham. I actually still have like...forty in stock moms didn’t take.”

I chuckled. “Alright, first off, as much as it is impressive pulling something like this off, you know better Chase. I wont stop you from selling your remaining playcolt simply because it is a common thing in school to do, but the gambling stops, okay?”

“Awh...Fine… Can I keep the money?”

“From the magazines? If your moms ask I said no. Gambling? I hope you kept a ledger to return it all.”

“...To charity then.” He said, running off.

I chuckled. He won't get caught anymore… I read up his stats. Seriously that kid gains Exp from anything, and levels up inhumanly fast. I shrugged before going inside to look for the other kids I need to talk to.

And here’s Gerald and Greka, the two trying to hide something from me. “You two, we need to talk.” I said seriously as I teleported right over to them.

“AH!” They yelped, dropping two small bags of bits, buttons, and gems.

I tisked, shaking my head before looking at them in disappointment. “You know, i thought I’d be most disappointed with Chaser having a gambling ring, but then I heard what you two were doing.” I sat down “Can you two explain why?”

“Uhh...distraction!” Greka shouted, smoke filling the room and they’re gone. I shook my head before flashing my eyes.

“Stopga.” I commanded on the world as I slowly walked around the house to find those kids. I’m so disappointed in them now. If they hadn’t tried to run I would still be upset, but understanding. Now I’m just disappointed. The two where halfway up the stairs. I picked them up and headed to their room, locking the windows and door before the spell let off, the two, still running, fell over and hit the wall. “Alright, now I am truly disappointed in you two.” I said when they snapped out of their confusion.

“...” The two looked at one another, not saying anything.

“Why. Why steal? And better question, why run from me when you got caught? We live in the same house, it’s not like you have many places to hide.”

“...”

I sighed and remained sitting there, looking at the two griffon nagas. “I can be here all day.”

To my surprise… they took me on that. The sun set...til it was almost nine in the afternoon, the three of us just in silence. “Uh, Eclipse, you and the kids dinner is cold.” Shy’s voice came from the otherside of the locked door.

“Battle of wills shy. These two definitely take after me.” I replies, my eyes never leaving them for a moment.

“Well, can you at least unlock the door with your wills? I need to feed our kids and you need to eat too.”

I didn’t even look as I unlocked the door with Oath for shy. “Come in.”

The door opened. Shy gave the kids plate with Meatloaf, mixed veggies and mashed potatoes, and she gave me the same. She then gave me a kiss goodnight. “Well, good luck with this insanity.” She said, closing the door behind her.

I smiled at her words, locking the door again as she left, only breaking my eye contact with the kids to eat.

The hours kept on. Night drawing ever darker. I was starting to fall asleep, but I looked at the two kids in front of me to see how they are doing in this battle of wills. They were in the same boat as I was. The both of them trying to keep each other awake. “Just tell me why already. Why you two do this. It’s not right, and I know your mothers raised you better while I was gone.” I said, biting back a yawn.

“...We were...but not before.” Gerald finally spoke.

“Before you came into my care you mean?” I asked, all need of sleep pushed aside.

“...Our parents...were not nice people.” Greka spoke. “They stole, all the time. Dad used to tell us we had to pull our share. We stole what they couldn’t. We were small, fit in small places. Used to threaten he’d eat us both whole if we ever came back without at least some bits or something.”

“We still hear their voices from time to time.” Gerald said. “Even though they’re dead...it’s like they’re still behind us...telling us what to do.”

Before they could say another word I quickly wrapped myself around the two and hugged them. “Shh… it’s okay.” I told them, holding the two children close. “Want to know my greatest power, a power that even your grandfather said very few possess, and even fewer use? Defiance. I refuse to let others control me, to dictate my actions. You could kill me, and I would tell the reaper to kiss my ass before going back into the fight. You two are special. You are not only my children, but the first Naga griffins as far as I know. You defy the rules with your very existence. Whenever you get those voices, telling you to steal, or do other bad things, I want you to face them down. You are not the same kids you were. You are stronger. You are loved. And you are not alone.” I said, gesturing to the house. “Any one of your sibling would be willing to help, Even Phia if you send a letter to her. And I am never far away, even if it seems like I am.”

“It’s just hard to forget all you grew up knowing.”

“Oh I’m not asking you to forget it.” I clarified with a smile. “I’m asking you to be better than it. You two have skills due to your past that would be a waste if not realized, but they should be put to use in a good way instead of a negative.”

“How can skills in theaving be used for good?”

“Easy. Tell me, what is more effective, attacking from the front, or attacking an opponent from the back? Being seen on every camera as a place goes high alerts, or being in and out before they ever know what hit them? Facing a enemy with no intel what so ever, or knowing everything about your enemy right down to when a guard used the restroom? You two are perfect for infiltration. It us used in the military, by me, and even your momma Luna. I’m sure she could teach you two shadow magic if you really asked.” I smiled

“Well...maybe.”

“Look, having the ability to steal things and not get caught is not a bad skill to have, but it needs to be used in the right way, not selfishly. Now, what did you two do with all your loot?”

“We uh...Buried it in the Playground.”

“Then tomorrow I want you two to start to return the stuff you stole. After you have done that with everything, Then Luna and I will start training you two properly.” I said, ruffling their feathers.

“Okay…”

“What’s wrong?” I asked

“Nothing, we just feel bad.”

“Don't worry about it alright? Now, I’ll take care of the plates. You two get some sleep okay?” I said, picking up the plates and unwrapping from them.

“Okay.” They said. I took the plates and headed downstairs. I put the plates in the sink and overheard the TV was on. Heading to that room, I saw Sciath Irma watching tv. This late? Then I saw what she was watching...cartoon superman. Old one too. Think I saw this once back on earth.

“Wow, didn’t think they’d be playing this.” I said suddenly from behind her

“It’s super cool!” Sciath Irma said, not even caring I was in the room. “Ever Since I found out they play this at night I’ve been getting up to watch it, then going to bed right after.”

“Heh, well, I hate to burst your bubble little filly, but we need to talk.” I said, taking a seat in a chair.

“Sure. About what?” She asked, not even looking at me, attention totally taken by the old tv superman.

I sighed. I hate to do this since I know how much I hated it when it happened to me. I reached for the remote and turned off the TV. “Sciath, we need to talk, and I need your attention.” I said carringly.

“Awh…” She whined, turning around and facing me. “Yes?”

I sighed. “I talked to Cheerilee earlier today. Care to tell me what’s up?”

“I’ve been stopping bad things, like you!” She said, now right next to me. “You fight and stop fights.”

I took a heavy, weary sigh. “Love, I’m not… I don’t fight to stop fights. I fight to protect.” I took a moment to think. “Think of superman. He fights right? But he fights for justice and to defend his city. I fight to save those I care for, and so they won’t have to.” I pet her mane. “Plus, stopping the wrestling club… really?”

“Well momma Shy always said you fought to stop bad people from fighting the good people. And Mamma Dash said sometimes fighting is the only way to stop fighting. I still don’t quite get that one but I figured it meant stopping bad guys ment you only have to fight them. So I’ve been stopping fights and possible fights all over school!” She proclaimed proudly.

I face palmed… Dash and I are having a talk. “Sweetie, unless the enemy is a heartless, or threatening you, I always try talking first. Tell me, if I suddenly started doing bad things, would you try and fight me, or would you try and talk to me?”

“I’d fight! Yeah!” She then proceeded to punch me in the tail...that kind of tickled.

“Even if doing so meant you would never see me ever? Forever and ever?” I asked

“Well, isn’t that why you have that sword that fixes bad people? So, all I’d need to do is grab it and save you with it!”

Oh she is almost as pure as Pura. “Child, fighting is normally not the answer. The people I fight are just the ones that refuse to talk. What Momma dash meant when she said that sometimes fighting is the only way to stop fighting is that there are some beings that will hurt you, your brothers and sisters, your mothers and friends, me, and not care or listen to anyone. Those are the people I fight. The people in your school? Either they are training, or it is a fight that can be stopped through talking.”

“Well, I guess I can try talking more…”

“Plus, if you go fighting everyone, you are going to get hurt.” I said, looking sad. “Hunny, The only reason why I fight, the only reason I am gone so much is to try and keep you all safe, to make it so you all don’t have to fight. I train you so you can be prepared if I’m not around to help, But at the end of the day, I never want any of you to fight.”

“Then why do we all have Keyblades, combat teachers, Grandpa Nightlight giving us Royal Guard training when he visits, and all those books in the library about fighting techniques?” She asked… and that was a good question, also hearing dad getting called Grandpa is hilarious.

“The reason is I can’t always be here to defeat the bad guys. Remember the heartless incident? I couldn't come and protect you all.”

“Yeah! I killed eighty nine!”

“And I’m proud of you for that, but think of if I didn’t train you. You could have been hurt by the heartless instead of fighting them off. I train you so when something attacks you, you can defend yourself, but I fight to try and make sure you never have to.”

“So...you want us to fight when you aren’t here to for us...and you want us to do nothing when you are here?” She asked, confused… wow she’s hard to get to.

“No no… Hmm... “ I said, trying to come up with an explanation. “I want you to fight when someone tries to fight you. I don’t want you to fight any other time.”

“Oh...Okay!” She said. “So...can I finish my show?”

I sighed. “Alright, But I want you to say sorry to those kids tomorrow, okay?” I said

“Okay.”

I smiled and turned back on the Tv, leaving her to her show with a kiss to her forehead. “Love you Sciath.”

I headed upstairs and into the bedroom. Luna and Dash where sleep but Shy was taking a late night bath. The bathtub was rather large, and had special jets that act as a massage when turned on. With a shrug I stripp off my coat and slither on over to Shy. “Taking a bath all alone hm?” I ask with a chuckle.

“Sometimes.” She said, sounding relaxed. “Just feels nice to self treat, you know?”

“Oh I know, but I say it’s about time I treat you.” I said. “So, need help preening?”

“Heh, as nice as that sounds, sorry, Dash beat you too it. Don’t think that just because you aren’t around we can’t have sex with each other.”

“Yeah well, At least I can now enjoy the other side of it… oh crap…” I said, now remembering why I left that part out as Shy looked at me.

“Say what now?” She asked, confused.

I sighed and turned myself female. “Perks of being a god, I really don’t have a gender anymore. Hell, I can end up causing myself to get pregnant.” I said and man does my voice sound sexy!

“Wow, kinky. Don’t tell Luna.” Shy laughed. “Well, if you don’t mind turning pony mare, I’d be happy to show you a mare’s body’s benefits~”

I gulped… and transformed.

Woah….

“Lot better as a mare huh?” Flutters asked, me still a mare pony and we were cuddled in the bathtub.

“That…. No words….” I said, staring off into space. So glad I spend money on soundproofing the entire room.

Flutters giggled. She then grabbed the body wash/shampoo and began rubbing it on me and herself. “Come on, it’s late enough and we might as well wash up properly.” She said, massaging me while rubbing the stuff into my coat.

I groaned happily. “Yeah, lets get clean… hmm… You know it’s not bad, being like this.” I admitted as I grabbed some myself to help wash her up.

Shy chuckled lightly. “From what Twilight told us when you where a mare and not in heat from one of her spells you did look rather comfortable in your transformed skin.”

“Yeah, both other times I was a mare it was during heat, so both times were not fun. But just like this? Honestly not bad… though I am afraid if Rarity would find out. She would sooo force me into a bunch of dresses.” I chuckled

“You would look rather pretty.” Shy said smiling, washing the suds off of me. “So, Tiara came by while you were in your stand off of the wills with the twins. Her mother is awake and better, but she’s not leaving the hospital just yet.”

I sighed. “Shy, I hate to say this, especially since I was the one to save her, but keep an eye on Spoiled. I even told Cript, they may have planned for me to save her, and use her as bait, or maybe even make her the trap. I’m going to tell the other girls as well when they get up, but I just want an eye kept on her.”

“Okay, but what makes you think that?”

“Because it is a classic thing to do that never fails. Hold someone that someone will save, while booby trapping the hostage. Core did it, many other villains have done it, I won’t put it past Zoiled and Kexez.” Yes, I started calling Zeke’s spoiled Zoiled. Sue me.

“Well, what do you think they did to her then? You already saved her, so what could she be used for by them now?”

“Tracker, sleeper agent, bomb, Destroyer of hope by killing Tiara.” I listed. “Need I go on?”

“Okay, Okay I get it.” Shy sighed. “Why not do that whole ‘Dive’ thing so you can see if there is anything worth worrying about for her? Surly you can correct it if you find something?”

I sighed. “I’ll look tomorrow if I have time. I still need to talk to a few of the other kids, namely Pura and Scoots. And tell Verum his book is overdue.”

“Oh, I completely forgot about that. He accidentally spilled grape juice on it. I was gonna buy a replacement but forgot. I’ll get one tomorrow and take it to the school.”

I nodded. “Alright, that leaves Pura and Scoots.” I yawned. “But first, let’s hit the hay. Besides, I want to see Luna and Dash’s face when they see me in the morning.”

“Careful, they might do something and I’m sorry, but I’ll be joining them.” SHe said, booping my nose as she started draining the water.

“I expect nothing less.” I giggled before slithering into bed right between Luna and Dash.

They were too asleep to notice, but Dash did cuddle up to me, me being in Naga form now my new...upper assent about smothered her face...and she’s still out cold… damn these are big, not THAT big, but decent size. Enough to turn some heads definitely… probably about a C or a CC cup…. dear god I’m thinking like a woman.

Oh well. I’ll face the music in the morning...

In the morning the girls, Luna and Dash, were quite surprised with my...different form. Luna immediately demanded sex… but that’s where it went south for me. Apparently Luna knows Transfiguration spells, so she made herself, as well as Dash and Shy… male… I got gangbanged...hard… I am now questioning my sexuality ‘because it was amazing. It was already THREE hours later and the spell wore off the girls, them being girls again and we were all in afterglow. “Welp, if I’m not holding a foal, I’m sterile, and we all know that’s not the case.” I said after a bit of cuddling.

“Well I know when dealing with gender bending such as in your case, the spell or transformation is unable to be reversed until said foal is born.” Luna said. “I’ll see some books your mother Gleaming left on Naga biology and reproduction.” Luna got up, wobbly, heh, and walked over to our bedroom bookshelf. She scanned through till she found the book and opened it up. “Hmm… Ah, here. Oh...Oh well that’s interesting.”

“What is it?” I asked, Honestly curious.

“Is seems your mother Gleaming’s world has the opposite gender ratio problems compared to our own. There, the population is six males per one female. As such, a herd is two or three stallions and one mare. Because of them, Naga mares evolved two wombs. One in the mammalian half, and the larger one located in the tail. Both are capable of fertilization and both can be impregnated by one or more of the stallions in the relationship. As such, a single naga mother can hold the foals of up to nine different stallions, and birth twenty foals, majority of which come from the tail womb. It says the most foals birthed by a single naga mare was a mare in a herd of seven stallion and herself, she birthed all triplets from six of them and quintuplets from the seventh. Totaling twenty two foals at once.”

…… “Did any of you use that hole by chance?” I asked, not really remembering all of it… what I was blissed out okay?

“Well it’s the only hole you got.” Dash said. “You have a snake tail and butt, not exactly good for anal sex, and you didn’t want to do blowjobs.”

“I wanted to keep some dignity…” I grumbled before blushing. “... maybe later after I warmed up a bit.”

“Yeah...and when we all do it to you at the same time we’re the image if dignity.” She said sarcastically. “Sex is dirty Eclipsa, and trying new things can get nasty. Get used to it. And yes, I am gonna call you that while you are like this.”

I groaned “Great, now thats gonna stick. Thanks Dash.” I chuckled.

“I think it sounds pretty.” Fluttershy said, patting my back.

“Well the book says that when a naga mare becomes pregnant, no matter what the womb the next morning she will begin shedding scales so her tail half can grow, expanding for the expecting foals. This can happen once or even up to four times to allow expandings to accommodate the number of foals growing inside them. The books says it starts at the tip of the tail.”

“So we will know for sure tomorrow. Alright then.” I stretched, kinda sore but from what they said, popping the cherry always leaves you like that. “Alright, I have things to do today when the kids get back… Oh and Dash, you are due for a punishment.” I said off handedly.

“Wait, what did I do?!”

“You are the reason why Sciath started fighting everyone. She misinterpreted your words.”

“...Crud.” Dash groaned. “Well, what are ya gonna do then? Cause you might be knocked up it’s not like you can knock me up when like that…”

I smiled. Perfect opportunity. “No but I can keep you tied up in a different way.” I said before summoning the item I had in mind and ‘kneeling’ in front of Dash and opening the ring box. “Dash, would you marry me, and officially join hour herd?”

“Oh...OH...Oh...Well… Yes. I mean, at this point I’d be a real scuzzball to say no, right?”

I giggled happily before slipping it onto her tallon. “And I enchanted it to help you with your speed. Have a blast~” I said, not telling her just how much faster she’ll go.

“Oh, cool! I’ll have to check that out later.”

I smiled before remembering something. I opened myself up to the gray before touching each of my girls, giving them some of it as well as a small, small portion of my now devine powers. “And there.” I smiled.

“What was that” Shy asked.

“Lets just say… I’m now not afraid of Immortality. I shared mine with you and Dash, while giving Luna the ability to choose when she wants to move on after I die. I was planning on doing the same to the kids during dinner, as well as I gave you all a bit of Gray.”

“Cool! Does that mean we can do other stuff, or is it just this aging thing?” Dash asked.

“W-well… I’m still learning how to use Gray myself… after all I did create it.... But you should have some more stuff.” I said with a embarrassed blush and rubbing my arm… damn I’m becoming more feminine by the minute.

“Well, alright then.” Shy said. “So, um. I don’t know too much about your new… upper assets Eclipse, but you might wanna invest in some...proper clothes for your gender?” She asked… I just realized I’m topless...

“I can cover up with my coat if I zip it up for now… But looks like I’m going to have to go shopping as well today if I did get knocked up... Which knowing my genetics is almost garinited.” I said, picking up said coat and zipping up. Thankfully it seems as though the enchantments hold and they adapted to my body structure, so no boobs being absolutely crushed. Just a bit tight is all. God these feel sensitive though. How did woman back on earth do it?

Breakfast was...awkward, to say the least. The kids each asked about a million questions and answering them was...hard. Can’t go right out and say what I did last night/this morning now can I? Once it was dealt with though I stopped Pura as she was heading back upstairs to grab her school stuff. “Pura, did you start on the make up work? I’m concerned, Cheerilee said you haven't been doing your homework, but been going above and beyond on everything else.”

“I’ve done it all. I just never turn it in.” She admitted.

Now I’m lost. Was only a matter of time. “Why not?”

“Cause I am doing something with it.”

“Is it something you can tell me about?” I asked.

“I wanted it to be a surprise, but okay.” She said, taking my hand and leading me to her room. She opened the door and… her homework was on the wall… though, from a distance, right from her doorway, she had somehow arranged it all so the pencil writing in her answers made an image of Oblivion. “I’m trying to do Oathkeeper, but that’s hard since it’s white in design.”

I was lost for words. I turned to Pura and hugged her. “Pura, this is just the sweetest thing. You know if you had told Cheerilee or any of your teachers this they would have understanded, right?”

“Yeah, but then that means twice the homework to make up what I use for this… and I like free time after school, thank you very much.”

I giggled. “I know, but now you need to make up anyways. Cheerilee gave me an entire folder filled with make up work.”

“...Welp, there goes Spring Break.” She sighed. “I’m making a B average without it. Can’t I just...not do it?”

I hummed. She had a point… “Here, I’ll make you a deal. Turn in just enough to earn a B+ or a A- over the course of the rest of the school year, and You won't have to do all of it. Deal?”

“Deal!” She said, hugging me. “Now...how to make Oathkeeper. Cause ten more homework assignments and Oblivion is done. Keychain is the hardest part.”

“I bet.” I chuckled. “Oh and we are going to a beach for Spring break. So far only Phia knows, so keep it a secret.” I winked at her before leaving her to pack her bags. Now, lets see if Scoots has left yet...

“Oh, cool. Always wanted to go fishing.” Pura said.

I nodded, leaving her to collect her things and caught Scootaloo right as she was leaving her room. She winced upon seeing me. “So close…” She muttered, almost dodging me.

“I don’t even need to say anything. And don’t even try to escape, ask Gerald and Greka how that worked out.”

“...So….which are you more mad about?”

“Honestly scoots, I’m not mad at all. I am mostly wondering why. Why would you do all those thing, though the nudity part took me for a loop I must admit. That and setting water on fire. I thought you took cooking after me and your mothers, not Aunty Twilight.” I chuckled

“Heh, Nudity thing was a dare from Pipsqueak, flaming water was a new spell gone wrong I was trying out… Everything else was, well…”

“Well? I want an answer before you are late to class preferably.” I said with a smile.

“Well...when the Heartless attacked, I was one of the few kids fighting them. Dad, I never felt more alive, more...happy, and full of purpose than when I did that… Justin said I did amazing for a Wielder of my age and limited experience. And when everything got settled...Parents even after all that didn’t want their kids to be able to protect themselves and… and the adults, adults I saved even where treating me like a foal rather than the filly who saved them from becoming one of those monsters… I liked that feeling dad, and now everything went back to normal almost like nothing happened and in some areas worse. Heck I can’t even summon my Keyblade at the park cause some parents think it’s bad manners! When what they really think is that they are afraid of it, of me, of...wielders in general. Yeah, we are more likely to attract Heartless but at least we can kill them unlike them.” She sighed, leaning against the doorframe and sliding down. “I finally felt like I can do something for others and now everypony is treating it like it’s illegal.”

“Believe it or not, for the longest time I was in the same boat as you.” I said, leaning on the wall across from her. “When I was a foal, I was kidnapped for all of a few minutes before I defeated the foolish stallions that only saw the brother to Celestia’s protage. After I defeated them, Shining and your grandparents fussed over me endlessly until shining sent me to military school with him… and I proceed to break every single record they had, even beating the entire guard, and all the trainees, all at once, against me alone. And even after that, I was babied because others feared me, or still saw me as a young foal instead of the warrior I was.” I looked up at Scoots. “What helped was having one pony who didn’t do any such babying. Aunty Twilight and Celestia both respected me and encouraged my path, helping me along the way.” I slithered over next to Scoots, words coming to my mind. ‘Herede de griseo’ Before I nudged her. “Have anyone who does that?”

“Not really. Even moms say I should be more like a foal. Irma and I kinda share the same ideals but she’s got other ideas for that. I just want to fight those monsters.”

I tapped her forehead, at the time unknowingly giving her more than any of us would ever know for years to come. “Now now, none of that. Starting from now on, after you are done with your homework, you are to come to me. We will make a warrior of you yet Scoots, and possibly even a Master if you study and train hard.” I smiled. “Oh and I also gave you some powers. We will both be learning how to use them together during those meetings.”

“Heh, cool… Hey Dad?”

“Yeah?” I asked, still smiling at her.

“If Emblem Heartless are people and creatures who lost their hearts to a heartless… then where did Pureblood Heartless come from?”

“The pureblood come from Darkness . But if you are asking what Exactly caused them to come to being, I couldn't tell you Scoots. But just because the heartless are from Darkness, Remember neither light nor darkness are inherently good. Both sides have cause pain for the other.”

“If that’s true then what are these Embodiments Justin told us about? From what he said the sound like powerful heartless but he said they were...more than that.”

“They are, I fought one.” I smiled. “They all apparently want to die, and end to their suffering. I made sure he wasn't alone during his final moments after the fight.”

“So what ARE they then? Why do they exist? I mean.”

“All I know is this one Woman, named Eve, was forced to do some evil stuff. She used to be a good person, she is the reason why Grandad Cript isn’t evil himself. But she was the one who created the Embodiments, and promised them a death in the upcoming war. Besides that I don’t know much, all I know is the embodiments actually made me go serious in a fight for once, Meaning way out of your league at the moment.”

“How does Cript know Eve?”

“Well… fuck it. Eve is Cript’s mother.”

“Uhh...I don’t think that’s right?”

“You fucked up the lore.” I jumped, Cript appearing next to me. “Seriously… WOW….”

“Geez, Sorry I can’t remember everything…” I grumble, pouting.

“First off, I have never even met Eve, she is God, Core, and Hollow’s mother. I am good because I met Lyra and she melted the pre-genetically programmed ice Nexus built over my heart. Also, my mother’s name was Jennifer.” He said, rolling his eyes. “Scootaloo, you’re dad’s already acting like the dumb blond.” He said, snapping his fingers… and my mane is blond now...

“Alright, blue I could take, but please turn it back. I don't want the next magical mishap to turn me into a bimbo with kids around.” I groaned

“Relax, it washes out in the shower.” Cript waved off. “So, how’s it feel being pregnant?”

“Ah damn. Was slightly hoping it wouldn't be the case but hey, Not going to complain just yet.”

“Dude, I know your authors. This was gonna happen. I can tell ya how many too.”

“Naw. I want something to be a surprise. Besides, being a goddess… mother hen instincts kick in hard.”

“Heh, well can’t argue. So, how’s your family been?”

I snapped, teleporting Scootaloo to school before continuing. “Pretty well after I got to talk to each of them. Plan on taking them to the Realm of Gray for some Spring break fun.” I said with a smile.

“Nice. Till then what are you gonna do? No offence but your wives got the kids, your knocked up and stuck like that for eleven months, six for the foals to develop then five where you swallow them into that healing stomach and keep them there for five. It’s all in that book Luna was reading you earlier. And I can promise you that nothing is gonna happen for a while and even if it did...what can you do? One bad hit and you’ll lose those kids.”

“Well… I wanted to be the family man I’ve always wanted to be. I offered to be a self defense teacher to those without keyblades at the school as a job, And I want to spend time with my family. Power is only worth it if you have others to earn it for. I have the power now, I just want to spend time with those that make it worth it.” I said, a soft, dare I say, motherly smile on my face as I sigh.

“Well, alright then. You got to be both father and mother now. And let me tell you, that is gonna be tricky. Want some help?”

“Meh, I’d be a fool not to say yes. Hell, being female for an extended period is going to be hard enough.”

“Well, prepared to suffer.” Cript said, snapping his fingers. I heard the male voices of my girls scream the floor above. “For you to get a better understanding of motherhood, you will be the mom of the house, and they will be the men of the house. For a whole year, karma for not being here a year, arguably that is my fault but hey, I’m not always the best or most good person in the room.”

“... you’re a dick Cript.” I groan, rubbing my forehead.

“And for the next year you have three to satisfy upstairs.” He laughed, vanishing as his laugh echoes behind.

“Damn it…” I mutter, slithering over to where I heard the voices. “Shy, Lulu, Dash? I hate my father.”

“Somehow I figured he was behind this.” Luna said. Wow, never realized it...last night but her stallion body is pretty tall, well built and...more masculine looking than mine is…

Dash looked about the same, only no eyelashes and was twice her normal size, making her just shy of Luna’s new hight. Shy was the same pretty much just more masculine...while also still looking feminine.

I opened and closed my mouth, trying to tell myself that isn't a blush appearing on my cheeks as I let out a small, low whistle. “Woah.”

“Heh...well the wedding will be...something.” Dash said. Her voice, while still high pitched for a dude, was deeper.

“Well, why did Cript do this?” Fluttershy asked, her voice soft for a dude, but something that when loud can and would call attention and keep it.

“Punishment for me being gone for a year, We all need to be like this for a year while I learn what it is to be a housewife. Honestly as long as I can uphold my promise to Cheer that I would help teach self defence for those who don’t have keyblades I’m fine.”

“Well...This will be an adjustment. I mean, a night of fun sure but...a whole year… how will we feed the foals? They need to be fed every five hours and the only one here with teats here is you Eclipsa...sorry, that’s sticking… and who knows how long until you start producing milk.” Luna said.

I sighed. “God remember? I’m sure at this point I can will myself to lactate. But I’m not testing that while only wearing my jacket.” that's right I caught you Lance, I know your tricks. No one ruins my coat!

“Well, that can work.” Luna said.

“We best invest in a breast pump then, if you are gonna work for Cheerilee at the school, there has to be milk here and kept good for the foals while we are here to food them.” Fluttershy said.

“So...what should we do now?” Dash asked.

“Girls, Eclipse, I was wondering if you wouldn’t mind if...we…” Rarity walked in, seeing all...this. “Is...is this a bad time? I didn’t walk in on any...bedroom activities did I?” She asked, blushing.

“Nope, we are all stuck like this for a year.” I said…. Still surprised by how smooth and downright sexy my voice is, but can’t focus on that right now. “What’s up Rares?”

“Well, I was hoping the girls and I could do some shopping...but the dress shops might be...unsuited for stallion wears…”

“Why not take Eclipsa. That’s the mare name Dash gave her.” Luna explained. “She could use a nursing gown or two~”

“Oh, well that can work. Are you willing to come along Eclipsa?”

Why is that sticking?! And why does it sound right in my head?! I sighed. “Sure. I need a maternity bra and some clothes that actually fit anyway. The Jacket is the only thing I have on right now and it only fits barely because of your enchantments.” I said, hands in my pockets.

“Hm, I’ll make some adjustments when we get back. Come on then darling, we best get a move on unless we don’t want the best deals.” Rarity said, leaving the room.

I groaned before following her out. “Later. I’ll make sure she doesn’t spend too much, she can’t earn enough to break even at the moment.” I said, starting for the door after Rarity with a wave to the hubbies…. GOD DAMN IT BRAIN!

We left, the town’s shopping district now something like a downtown cities one. The first shop we entered was called ‘Pampered Padding’ a foal clothes and supplies store. But I saw it also had things for expecting mothers. “Hello and welcome to Pampered Padding, can any of us assist you?” Holy hell is that Jinx from Teen Titans?!

“Rares, You are the one with more experience with this.” I internally grown as I find myself embarrassed by my lack of knowledge.

She nodded. “Why yes we could use some Foal bottles, extra diapers, blankets, maybe some toys and a breast pump darling.”

“The last thing I’ll have to order then call you when it arrives, everything else is in isles two, one, and four.”

“Thank you kindly.”

We headed for isle one first. Rarity levitating a basket and I grabbed one. Diapers. Rarity began scanning them over while I was wondering what the difference in brands and stuff where… Better voice it now before I look like a fool. “So Rares, what's the difference in the brands? You seem rather focused there.” I asked

“Oh at first I didn’t know either darling, but after becoming a surgut I began researching and there’s all sorts of differences you don’t notice right away. First off being what the diaper is made of or has in it. For example, this brand says extra absorbent, but this one said anti-rash protection. Given your children and infants don’t need to, eheh, create excrements, this might not be of much need for you to know but helps nonetheless.”

I nodded. “Reasonable. So what ones are you going for?” I asked, carrying the cart as we walked down the aisle.

“Well, I don’t know yet darling. Your foals don’t require diapers and I have yet to know how much the foal I am carrying will require the differences, so I guess I can just buy one of each and see where it goes from there till Flure and Fancypants take them home to Canterlot.”

I shrugged and agreed, picking up one of each type, not brand, and placing it in the basket. “Alright, What’s up next?”

“Next up is the bottles.” She said as we headed to the next isle. “There are also lots of different sizes and brands, but in the end it doesn't matter that much. Most with different designs and colors are purely cosmetic.”

“Alright then….” I said, grabbing a few of the same bottle

“But, what they are made of is important. Some companies use plastics that when exposed to head with a liquid inside, release some rather poisonous chemicals. Best look for ones with the star with the F.G.A in it. Foalhood Guidelines Beru Approved, meaning the product passed health and safety standards for foals.”

“Who the fuck would try and poison foals?” I grumble, putting them back and looking for the F.G.A ones.

“It’s not direct, it’s just cheap materials. Companies unable to pay for the better ones but needing to make quotas.”

“Still, bullcrap is what it is.” I sigh. “Alright, found them.” I said, putting a few in the basket for the two of us. “Next?”

“Blankets.” At the end of this isle was a basket of big fluffy blankets. “Be careful in examining them. Loose string, iffy taggs or rough patches in the cloth are hazardous for infants, and worst case scenario the machines they use when stitching them lost a needle and it ended up in the fabrics, so feel carefully in blankets and clothings for newborns, and yourself. Happened to me once when I was a foal. Pricked my hoof on a slipper with a broken off needle tip from the factory.”

“Shit…” I said before looking through them all, trying to find the perfect one.

After a good five minutes of searching all the blankets we grabbed where clean, I even ran a magnet spell over them just in case. Lastly was the toys. “Nothing too small. Foals of all ages, especially teething ones love to chew on things, so large, soft plastic toys with the F.G.A star are recommended and when it comes to stuffed animals cotton stuffed ones beat sawdust ones. If the toy has sawdust and it tears open the wook powder can irritate the eyes and clog up the nose and lungs.”

“All this work and the baby isn't born yet…” I said, silently apologizing to the hubbies.

“Yes, and if they eat it, well, if they aren’t throwing it up immediately the will be plugged for a while and it’s not recommended to give your foal laxatives. Flure and Fancy have been taking all sorts of parenting and prep classes awaiting their foal, and all this time I have been learning as well.”

“I can see that.” I sighed before picking out a few good toys with Rarity’s input.

With some toys picked Rarity also stopped by the popup books on a shelf. “They say reading to the foals in the womb, playing soothing music and talking to them makes them happy and effect them as they age, depending on what they were exposed to. Even after birth reading to the foals and playing music can ease them to sleep as it will be familiar to them on restless nights.”

I suddenly had the urge to make sure they listened to Simple and Clean…. “I might try that. Won’t hurt.” I shrugged despite knowing I will definitely be trying that. “So that all we needed for this store?”

“I have to put in the order for the pump at the register, but yes this is it.” She said, taking a few popup books and we headed to the checkout. Rarity paid for the things and placed the order. Once our stuff was bagged we headed out...to the next store.

Of course I was carrying the bags. I’m not the one or two weeks away from term. I chuckled as even as a mare I’m the bag carrier. “So where to next?” I asked

“Next it the clothing store where we shall acquire you a nursing gown or two, as well as a special pregnancy bra. Speaking with a few human clients from Daybreak they are soft, firly fitting bras that stretch with your teats as they swell with milk. It’s mandatory for humans and...partly human pony folk.” She said.

“Well hopefully we find a few that suit my style… and please don't think the blonde is permanent. Next time I shower it is coming off.” I chuckled, knowing Rarity would try and find something that suited all my colors, and a blonde mane doesn't fit that criteria.

“Good to know. I was wondering about that. Just figured you were looking for a new look.”

“Naw, my dad making fun of me. Though I think I stopped him from Bimboficationing me when I mentioned the kids.”

“Well I won’t pry into that family scuffle. Though I imagine Applejack will have a good laugh at you when she sees this. Oh, and did you know Spike is in the Dragonlands?”

“Really? I figured the little guy would travel now that Twilight is gone but good on him. Just as long as he makes a hoard other than gems…. Hmmm… I’ll need to visit my little brother soon….” I hummed.

“Oh yes, after Twilight told him she would need to be leaving for quite the time the dragon Lord Ember took him in as an ambassador of Equestria. Relations are steady and only a handful of dragons cause trouble.”

“That's good. Proud of the little guy. Always doing something important, no matter how small that one.”

“Yes, he’s become quite the noble drake. Eclipse...Eclipsa? Well, whichever, do you ever miss the old days?”

“All the time. Things were simpler then. No multiverse threat, just the occasional heartless swarm and Monster of the week. We were all together, you me, the girls… including Shy and Dash… Spike, all of us being one big extended family. But would I change anything? Not in a heartbeat.”

“Heh, yes. Quite. I might change a dress design here or there, but nothing too big. I often wonder what life would be like if you were not a Keyblade wielder. How different everything would be… Better or worse that’s hard to tell.”

“Yeah… But can’t change what is in the past, only add to it.” I smiled.

“Wise words. When did you become sagely?” Rarity asked with a bit of sass.

I giggled. “Around the time when I realised what was truly important to me.” I sighed. “Is this the shop?” I asked as we neared a clothing store.

“Hm, oh no, not this shop darling…” The shop I spotted was...simple. WAY simple, dull colors and had an Equal sign on it. “Owner is a tad loopy. Sad really, she lost her whole village to the Heartless, nopony knows how she survived but she did and moved here, selling whatever she managed to salvage from her old home. Poor mare only leaves her shop to buy food.”

I walked over to the entrance before snapping my fingers, a small note appearing in my hand before going through my assistant for bits. After pulling out about 150, I knocked on the door, leaving the bits and note on top of it before going back over to rarity. “Lets go.”

I looked back, the mare was a pale pink coated unicorn, mane a mess and saw the bits, reading the note and giving a small smile before heading back inside. “Her name is Starlight glimmer.” Rarity said as we walked. “Poor deer was hit harder than most anypony else. At first she just kept yelling propaganda about equality and about cutie marks being evil. After a week of that she opened this shop, hasn’t said much of anything since then.”

“Well, Hopefully the note and bits help her get back on her feet.” I said with a small smile, “Now, where were we?”

“Right, clothes.” Rarity said as we entered the right store. Here I underwent the rather humiliating trials of being...measured, then trying on various nursing bras and gowns that where my size. Not gonna lie, bras where soft but a little tight, and the gowns were so, oh soooooo soft. They were just a poncho like shirt or dress that had a purposely made hole for my breasts to hand out, but were covered by a second layer of soft fabrics so I was decent, and if wearing this with a bra on, could...as the cashier said, slip a nip to feed the foal. I got four of both. I actually wore one home. As a guy fabric this soft and comfy is alien in it’s feeling on my coat/skin, but I can get used to this.

“Honestly, did becoming a mare make me hyper sensitive to touch or something?” I thought out loud. “First my jacket now these clothes.”

“Well in my experience a Mare has more nerve endings and more receptive sensations to touch than stallions, often it’s either evolutionary or genetic. It could also be that your mare form is less built and muscular than your stallion body. So your skin is more sensitive.”

“So that's a yes.” I giggle. “Honestly, this is just crazy, but not in a bad way. That make sense?”

“Completely. My word, Eclipsa, did you just speak in Mare? At least I know a few stallions that refer to speech in that way as that.”

I opened my mouth before closing it. “I’m adapting far to quickly to this.” Oh shit is has hit my speech patterns now!

Rarity giggled. “Well, I guess a stallion can learn to be a proper mare. Maybe after the foal is born I can teach you to be a lady.”

“If I decide to stay like this maybe, But I will always be a warrior and knight at heart dear.” Did…. Did I just say ‘Dear’?

Rarity just laughed at my realization. “I’m sorry, but that was unexpected. You sure you were meant to be a stallion over a mare?”

“I have no clue anymore…” I say as I stare a few feet ahead dramatically.

“Hm. If you are adapting to this so quickly I wonder how Shy, Luna and Dash are dealing with their changes.”

“We’ll see later… probably marvling at the ease of restroom advantage they have right about now.” I said, giving up as I have to spend a year like this, might as well get used to it.

We arrived back home to the strangest thing...Rainbow Dash was replacing a window.

“Alright Blitz, what did you do?” I said, smirking as I know that was going to stick as well.

“Blitz...oh, male name. Neat.” He said. “Well your...uh, male parts are sensitive and...hard to controle. I got mad and threw something and broke the window. Luna suggested calling a repair pony...but for some reason I said no and went out and got the supplies. I mean, I’ve changed a window or two before but for some reason I took them calling somepony else for help offensively...not sure why…”

“Welcome to being a Stallion. You have to control your hyper sex drive, control your aggression, and actively learn how to ask for help. Have fun!” I said, waving to Blitz with a giggle before helping Rarity get the stuff into the house.

“Oh joy- Wait, HYPER sex drive? So this thing never just stays down?!”

“Not without years of practice~” I taunted in a sing song voice… alright I got the pun Lance, Voice of a goddess, stop hammering it in.

Heading in I saw Fluttershy in the kitchen, cooking. Smells like he can still cook, and Luna playing with one of the foals in the living room. I smiled “We’re back, And I have got to admit, this stuff is comphy. I still prefer my jacket, but ah well, beggars can’t be choosers.” Damn it Rarity, I blame you.

“That’s good.” Shy said, handing me a spoon of broth. “How’s this taste? Too much salt or does it need more?” I shrugged before giving it a taste with (Screw it) Butterscotch still holding the spoon. “So, more or less?” Butterscotch asked.

“Hmm, A small dash more of salt followed by maybe some Minced celery, But it is your soup Butterscotch dear~” I said with a slight teasing tone.

They blushed. “Oh, uh...Heh, Butterscotch… I like it. It’s a tasty candy after all.” Eyp! Too adorable, even as a dude! “So, how was your day?”

After recovering from the diabetic attack I smiled. “Rather well, We bought somethings for both rarity and I, as well as a few pieces to finally put into my drawer of the Wardrobe besides a t-shirt.” I giggled

“Good. So… what are the others stallion names if I may ask?”

“Well we have Rainbow as Blitz, and I’m still trying to come up with something for Luna. But we can’t let the poor dear left out…. Damn…” I muttered the last bit. “But Yeah, Lulu is the only one needing a name.”

“Hmm….How about Star? Cause of their mane?”

“Hmm, Sure, I’m sure he’ll find it aproberiate. Now, when do the little ones need their feeding? I haven't caused my lactation yet for them.” I asked Butterscotch.

“In an hour. So best start that...however it works for you. Gotta admit though, not missing the swollen teats.”

“And I’m actually not missing the constant need for control… rather relaxing that.” I said before closing my eyes, taking a breath, and snapping, kick starting my magic on my body to, well, kickstart my lactation. Before my and Butterscotch’s eyes… my C cups became double D’s...might have been excessive and he’s staring...and blushing. I am half embarrassed and half into it. “Th-this is well…. I’m going to need to buy more Bras.” I giggled, a small, mischievous blush on my own face before mentally slapping myself. ‘No, Bad MILF, focus!’ “So Butter dear, how else did you and the others fairing?”

“Well, I’m sure Da-Blitz outside told you about his Episode, I just feel like my sense of taste is...less. It’s why I asked you to taste the broth, and Star over there doesn’t seem to have changed that much, well, aside from when they jump everytime the wind blows on their, hehe… you know.”

“Ah, so Blitz is dealing with control, you are dealing with the less sensitivity, and Star is dealing with your new weakness. Sound about right?” I asked with a small, knowing grin on my face.

“Seems so.” He admitted. “This isn’t the worst of it, is it?”

“Oh just wait until you are all out in public, all the mares and females, and I’m around to remind you you are not single. Or… heat week….. That’s going to be a dreadful time on all of us.” I shuddered at the mention of that blasted week.

“Well you’re pregnant, so that won’t affect you.” Scotch reminded. “So, what have you been dealing with in terms of your new body?”

“Really it has just been alright… but that's the terrifying part if I am to be perfectly honest. My pattern of speak has gone from relaxed to a much more refined while keeping my personality, The clothes I am wearing I have no complaints about, and actually enjoy, despite the mere thought of wearing a dress as a male would have been a death sentence, and besides the things I must learn about motherhood, everything else is just coming so naturally. Even Rarity made mention of how well I have simply taken to being a mare, as if I was always meant to be one.” I rambled slightly while informing him.

“Hm. Well, mare or stallion I’ll still love you. I do have to ask though, what if something happens and Heartless or something attack? You’re pregnant, and sorry but I won’t let you fight carrying foal...or foals… not sure how many you have considering what the book said.”

“Well, every being in this house can fight dear. Besides that, I was planning on teaching Scootaloo some more private lessons. She so does wish to be a warrior, who am I to tell her no?” I spoke before smiling. “Besides, I’m not defenceless Scotch, I am probably the most powerful being on this world, though I would never say this realm. There is always a bigger fish after all.”

“Well still, it doesn’t sit well with me.”

“I’m aware.” I smiled. “After all, who was it again who asked the same thing to their own mares?” I stuck out my tongue a little. “But still, We have been told that the war will start in... 2 years, 7 months, 3 days, 8 hours and 34 minutes. According to this Reflection that is. It is most likely different in the realm of Gray, as it was just made….” I said, checking the pocket watch me and the others were given when it clicked…. A small loophole… the perfect training zone for all of us who will fight. I’ll need to contact the others after I am done spending time with the family for the next year or so. “Any heartless that show up can be swiftly dealt with with the combined force of the militia and the military based keyblade wielders.”

“Huh, sounds...pretty watertight.”

“Mhm. Well, I should go find Star, see how he is holding up as well as inform him of his name.” I said with a smile.

“Go on. I still got some veggies and meat to cut for this.” Scotch said as I headed over to Star.

I gave Scotch a peck on the cheek as I left. I wandered the house looking for Star. ‘Damn, these things really do start to feel full quickly… the pressure sucks… but feels good?’ I thought in my head before going back to my task.

Not long after reaching over to Luna, now Star, I leaned forwards to talk...and fell flat on my chest… I have leaked. Star saw this...and laughed. “Hahahahahaahahah! Oh my stars, that was priceless… awe, look. The foals already know where their milk is.” He said, and he was right, the foals where coming my way...damn did they smell it?!

“Alright, looks like you Star dear got the whole Attitude problem… huh, expected that on Blitz.” I said before turning my attention to the foals… as a warm feeling overcame me. I scooped them up gently “Awe… someone hungry?” I asked, all rational thought gone, instinct replacing it.

“Wait, you’re seriously gonna nurse them already? What did Rarity do to you?” Star asked, ignoring his new male name.

I smiled gently at them, tickling their bellies with my hands and some help from my tail. “Oh hush dear. Even Rarity was surprised by how well I’ve adapted.” I said dismissively before, using the subtle genius of the design of the dress and bra, begin to feed Star Charge and Josh first, my tail keeping Jr occupied while I do so, the warm smile never leaving my face. I gasp a little bit when the two latch on, both in slight pleasure… and the strange pride I feel as I let them nurse.

Star, though, just dropped his jaw. “Who are you ahd what have you done to Eclipse?”

I couldn’t help but giggle at his reaction. “Oh come on, all the things you’ve seen living with me, and me being a natural female, let alone mother, is the most surprising? Tsk, stallions.” I added the last bit with a laugh.

“Tisk, genderbent stallion.” Star quipped. “Still, how are you this...open so fast? I would have guessed it would take some time for you to nurse them but you just...dived right in… oh, be careful with their noses, they drink too fast it comes up their nose and then you have to use that thing to take out the milk and boogers.” Star said, levitating me over that thing that looks like an all rubber turkey baster.

I nod and slightly changed how I was holding them as to try and prevent too much at a time. “Thank you dear, and to answer, maybe it has to do with me naturally being both male and female at the same time now? Maybe now I have the instincts of both?” I theorized before going back to mother mode on the kids, rubbing them gently as the warm smile came back at full force.

“Huh, well that’s one idea. Must have to do with what gender you choose to portray yourself as at the time.” Star thought. “Oh, once done burp them. Josh always burps when patt on the lower back and Star Charge is known to throw up a little sometimes when she burps.”

“Could you grab a burp rag then please? These two will be finished shortly at the rate they’re going.” I chuckled, unaware of the magic laced inside my milk I was feeding the kids.

“Well, towels. Heh, on it.” Star said, heading to grab some.

Josh let go of my teat himself, burping on his own...awh… I felt something vomit over me… and I gulped him down...why did I do that? “Got the...where’s Josh?” Star asked.

“I… erm… instinctively put him into my medical stomach…. Gosh, Star dear, please use an assistant to contact one of my Naga mothers and ask if that is normal.”

“Actually, I think I read this in the book.” He said, running back up and coming down, quickly flipping through pages. “Yeah, this part about Naga mothers keeping their young inside them for months, up until they are a year. It’s a means of keeping them warm until their natural warmblood fully develops, and keeps them safe and healthy. When needing to feed them, some mothers will drink their own milk so they can drink it in there, or just bring them out to feed, as once a naga becomes a mother her stomach muscle control becomes pinpoint. Well, good thing we keep the kids nursery a toasty seventy. Though if this book is anything to follow seems they will be in you more than not.” Star said with a cheeky smile. “Good luck getting into fights now carrying developing, AND birthed foals in you.”

“Oh shush, I already promised to teach a self defence class at the school and to help train Scootaloo. Besides, it’s no as if any of you could stop me~”

“Well, in terms of the school I can see you keeping them in there since that’s rather safe, as for Training Scootaloo please leave them with us before training her. I know your scales are roughly built but it’s still a worry.”

I sighed happily. “Now you know how I felt for you and Scotch. Anyways, could you pass the towel? Star Charge left me a gift before going inside me.” I giggled, using my tail to have Jr ready for his teat soon. They joys of a prehensile tail.

He handed me the towel, and as I was wiping myself clean and burped Star Charge again and sending her down, Star kept on reading.

“It also says it’s not uncommon for extremely protective naga mothers to swallow their mates, placing them in the storage stomach when heat seasons arise to avoid unfaithfulness… Oh crap you’re gonna do that now huh?”

“What do you think? Three horny stallions during the time of the year where every mare is willing to jump your bones and your wife is caring kids…” I said as I let Jr have his teat, latching on eagerly.

“Hmm… Well Scotch and I can resist, not sure for how long, but I do admit Blitz is a worry…” Star said, sighing as he read on. “A single naga, male or female can swallow up to six other nagas full grown before they become cramped, and up to twenty nine before stretching themselves too much.”

“Scoots was lucky she was swallowing mostly kids…” I grumbled to myself… somehow more concerned about that now. Chalking it up to a mare thing.

“Oh...Oh WOW!” Star said, eyes wide on that page he was on.

“Oh, what is it dear?”

“Well, according to this after a naga female has had her first young, she can take in those very same young back into her womb if needed, and her breasts can hold one each also… wow you are like a living hotel or something?” Star said.

“Starting to feel like it when you say it like that.” I grumble.

“Heh, sorry.” He said, clearing his throat and reading more aloud. “It says here the record for most fully grown nagas inside another single naga is held by...wow, your mothers world’s Princess Celestia.”

And now I felt challenged as a familiar glint appeared in my eyes. That was before I shook it off. Foals first, showing up another mare later. “Interesting that your dimensional sister hold that record.”

“Yes. According to this, an Alicorn Naga has four stomachs. One extra in their human half. She also took advantage of a spell that altered her digestion stomach to treat those inside it like the healing one. Taking advantage of her wombs and breasts too, she successfully carried fifty full grown nagas inside her for three days before they needed to be released to go about their lives. Wow, three days...fifty?! Well, I know she and I are tall compared to other ponies here, she must be a literal giant in this world.”

Now that challenge was all the greater. Goddess against goddess…. No no, bad… “Dear, please move on. My need to better myself hasn’t changed and it is taking a lot of willpower to keep from attempting to one up her.”

“Oh, so the stallion I married is in there. Heh, fine.” He said, flipping the page. “It says that with special stretching exercises and vitamins, your wombs can hold the foals again, and with a special spell, the umbilical cord can be regrown, but you can take them out and the new cord will dry up and fall off without issue. This is used by busy mares with not enough time to properly feed their young, or have too many to feed at once, so they feed them like when they were developing. That already sounds like you come working at the school.” Star said.

“Yeah, probably. Though breastfeeding does have a sense of… satisfaction behind it.” I admitted as I burped and swallowed Jr to go be with his siblings and fixing my gown.

“Well, that’s...something.” Star said, shaking as he began reading the last of the book. “Oh. It says here that when giving birth most naga mares will knot their tail and bring it along upwards to push the foals out the womb. In rare cases they will be cut open but thanks to modern healing magic such damage makes swallowing others safe unlike years prior. It also says most naga children are born able to eat one another but most rarely start until the age of four.”

I nod. “That’s good to know. So my dear, have any other plans until the children return home?”

“Well it would be a tad awkward to bone you despite the book saying anyone inside your stomachs will hear and feel nothing… feel up for this hand and titjob thing I heard about when looking through Wolf’s Assistant’s browser history for Nightmare?”

I hummed. “Sure my love, but let’s wait until Scotch is done cooking and Blitz either finishes the window or gives up. I feel you three earned some lovin~” I giggled lustfully.

“You are too into this you know that?” Star said.

“Maybe… it just feels natural, even if being a male is all I’ve known. That make any sense?” I asked

“Well, as much as any of this is really. Still though I didn’t think one night of genderbent sex would alter your sexuality so much.”

“Maybe it didn’t. I’ve never gone out with a guy, present excluded, before so I never knew if I was Bi or not. Who knows, maybe I was always Bi.” I shrugged.

“Huh, well that’s possible.” Star shrugged. “Mind if I...feel along your stomach? I wanna feel how the foals are doing.”

I giggled before leaning back slightly. “You only need to ask Star, same goes for the others.”

“Thanks… being a stallion is still gonna be something I’ll have to get used to.” He said, tracing a hoof along my tail...ooouuuuuwwwww… that feels niiiiiiiiccccceeee~ He felt the little lumps, them kicking as I...somehow just knew they were napping in there. “So strange.” He chuckled. “But, they are more safe here than anywhere else in the big picture of things.”

“Yes well, they must have tuckered out after eating. Let’s let them rest for now love.” I smiled

“Yeah… Hey Eclipse...Eclipsa?”

“Hun, just call me whichever feels more comfortable to you. We will all know whom you are talking about.” I said, giving him a peck on the lips.

“Heh, sorry, not as quick an adjuster as you.” He chuckled. “Anyway, In the book’s last chapter is said some naga children sneak into the mothers storage stomach as it’s natural and safe for them instinctually… you think the kids are gonna try that at some point? I mean, they didn’t when you were male but what if it’s just with mare nagas?”

“If they do, I don’t see what would be the issue. As long as they go to school and not spend every waking moment inside, I wouldn't mind caring for them more.” I smiled. “Becoming a God, fighting a threat to the entirety of reality… and truly raising kids is what makes me feel important.”

“Heh, our family is so strange...yet interesting.”

“I find it keeps us interesting, a far cry from some other boring families.” I smiled before offering a hand to Star. “Shall we see if Scotch is finished for now and see if Rainbow needs some help? I’m sure Bio is simply dying to change the rating to a M at last and write us a clop chapter.”

Bio: Nope!
Lance: You’re on your own there Eclipsa.

“Party poopers… Oh well.” I shrugged, my causal breaking of the fourth wall proof enough that I’m still me.

“Heh, well at least your random sentences haven’t changed.” Star said, giving me a peck. “Let's go then...something tells me this will be...quite the turn of events for us in our lives.”

“That it will. And I’m glad you all are here to experience it with me.” I said, nuzzling into Star as we went to go get the other two.

Stuff....Stuff Happened

View Online

The next morning I was hugging the toilet as if it was the means of ending the Keyblade War early. Shit...morning sickness sucks...and my tail is peeling and it ITCHES like mad! Pura and the twins snuck into my storage stomach last night, and so far only my food tummy is expelling stuff. Kinda good, doubt the kids wanna experience being vomit… ugg. Scotch got me some water to rinse my mouth out when I had a breather and Star kept toweling me dry when the opportunity came along… God damn it this sucks...

“I remember my morning sickness.” Star said. “It’s a persistent thing, sometimes right in the morning or sometimes after breakfast. The later is the worst of the two.”

“Uhg… day two, already hell.” I groan, thankful for the water Scotch handed me. God, I’ve rarely gotten sick since… ever, but I know what it feels to throw up. It sucks, but never this miserable. “Not looking forward to mood swings though.” I joke, trying and failing to make light of the situation.

“Neither are we.” Star said. “I once punched the wall down and then five minutes later cried when Shy-Butterscotch was slicing broccoli. Ugh, hormones.”

“.... I fear for all you dears….. My titanic strength plus stubbornness… dear gods, what have we done.” I groaned before slowly letting go of the porcelain god, thankful for giving me salvation.

“Now I’m worried for Equestria.” Star said. “Come on, camomile tea helps before eating anything.” He said, helping me down stairs. I managed to get Pura and the twins out, then the infants to give them all a bath, Scotch was handling that, as Star helped me downstairs, and began making me that tea. “So, heh, last night was...definitely fun. I SO understand why Wolf finds that hot… Heh, sorry if you aren’t in the mood for that talk. Just...felt I had to say it...strange.”

“Testosterone when you are not used to it.” I said simply, even if I … strangely felt a little embarrassed about him saying it like that… Uhg, estrogen. “Hey Star? I was thinking of a place we could go for Spring break with the kids. I promised Phia a beach… and I was thinking on taking you all to the new realm of gray and making us the perfect beach.”

“That sounds like a good idea.” Star said, setting up the teacup. “So, have any bizarre cravings yet?”

“Not yet, but it’ll probably hit before it’s time to put the kids to sleep.” I said. Like I was going to admit I was craving Paopu fruit-chocolate smoothie with a stack of pancakes filled with more chocolate, any fruit I can find, and bacon, drenched in chocolate syrup.

“Yeah. Shy craved lots of smoothies and I was all over anything chocolate. Couldn’t eat if there wasn’t any on it. Hamburgers, fries, even water. Surprised my flank isn’t bigger.”

For some reason, I didn't find it… appropriate to joke about that being Celestia’s job… well at least you readers know the joke. “Yes well… oh alright, I’m craving Paopu fruit and chocolate, specifically together.” I admit, my stomach growling at just the thought as my mouth salivates slightly.

“Hmm...I know that fruit is rather rare. Can you buy them in bulk from your assistant?”

“I’ll check. Worst comes to worst I go over to Grey and make us enough.” I said, pulling up my assistant to check for the fruit.

Paopu Fruit.
785-Rem
Quantity- 1
Purchase: Yes?

I tapped yes to see if i could bulk or just a single one, not really worried about the price. A year of achievement unlocking plus my sudden level increase from not only god hood but also actually spending my stat points tends to rack up you some nice Rem. I could. A bulk box of a hundred cost six thousand rem. Buying bulk gave a discount. I got it and there was a knock at the door. “...are you expecting somepony?” Star asked, placing the tea for me.

“I think thats the delivery.” I said, getting up and heading for the door. I opened the door and… Bender? “Hey you order a hundred star shaped fruits?” He asked. This is...Bender...from fucking Futurama!

I mentally kept myself from squealing in joy… for now. Save it for when the door shuts. “Yes, that’s me alright.” I said with a small smile, masking my joy.

“Great.” He said. “Hey Fry! This is the place!” He yelled up. Looking up...the ship… A giant box fell out, Bender catching it and placing it next to him. He then pulled out clipboard. “Just sign here.”

I took the board and sighed it, also adding a generous tip for the shipping before handing it back. “There you go.”

“Thanks. Welp, later cold blooded meatbag.” He said, making his legs rise up to hop back up onto the ship as the left.

I watched them go and when I was sure they were at least a star system over I Squeed so loud it would put a thestral to shame. “I just met Bender! He hehehe!” I said, picking up the crate with one hand easily and slithering inside, a big old grin on my face.

“I take it someone you know?” Star asked.

“Only from a amazing show that I will never put on around any of our kids under 13.” I said before setting down the crate. “The bulk is a hundred Paopu fruit so I bought one for now.”

“Wow, wonder how fast you’ll go through them.” Star said, pulling out a bowel and pouring chocolate syrup into it and placing it next to my tea. “Start eating, cause not having what you crave can trigger mood swings.”

I smiled eagerly before cracking open the crate and pulling out one of the star shaped fruits, pausing for a moment to cut off three small portions from the main fruit before drenching the rest of it in chocolate and diffing in. My eyes were like stars. “So good~”

Later that day, after the kids were off to school, the infants were fed and back inside me, I was watching TV. Scotch and Star left to grab stuff we needed in town and Blitz finally woke up. “Uggg…” He moaned. “Why do these things seem more awake than I am?” He asked...morning wood.

“Because you are in a constant want of sex, weather you know it or not.” I informed. “Oh and Blitz, I saved a small piece of Paopu fruit for you in the fridge, please eat it when you can… it’d mean a lot to me.” I said softly at the last part.

“Oh, sure.” He said, walking over to the fridge and eating it then and there. “Woah! That’s sweet. And tangy in the aftertaste.” He said, rummaging for a full breakfast. “What you watching?” He asked.

“....I don’t know… I wasn’t even really watching it, more of thinking… But I can’t remember what of.” I said, looking at the screen.

”And new on fox, the Simpsons!” The announcer said, the oldest show still running from earth playing.

“Wow, that show really will never end. Even past earth’s destruction.” I said in slight shock.

“Is it any good?” Blitz asked. I could hear him crack some eggs.

“Yeah. Heck, this show has predicted the future right down to the smallest detail many, many times, despite its sometimes mature jokes… glad it wasn’t Archer I was watching… not with the young ones around..”

“So, gonna do anything today? I gotta eat then head off to the weather factory. Got some...explaining to do. Man, they are gonna be pissed. First the race change now gender. The ponies in PR are gonna start hating me. After than I’m on an overnight shift so I won’t be back till the next morning.”

“It will only last a year… that is unless you want to stay that way. Then we can see about making it more permanent.” I shrugged.

“Well I have always been called more male than female, while I never expected this if I decide I like it then our marriage will officially be strange...er.”

“Not really. As it is I’m still deciding myself If I like this. Being female I mean. It won’t be any stranger than my birth father deciding to marry my adopted father and become a futa lady.” i said with a giggle, loving that I can support Blitz like this.

“Heh, well at least I can fight those jerks at work on equal footing. Griffon body was already a buff to strength, but being male on top of that, heh, I’m gonna knock their teeth loose.” He laughed.

I sighed with a smile on my lips. “Just try to set a good example for the kids dear. They look up to you, or need I remind you your slip up with Pura?”

“Heh...no. I’ll try but I don’t think I can promise anything sadly. Always been hot headed. Oh, Applejack said she was gonna come over tonight to see how Rarity is doing.”

“Got it. That reminds me, I need to see if Scootaloo is done with her homework. I promised I’d help train her how to be a Warrior. Provided she does her class work of course.” I said, getting up from my seat with a stretch.

“Well since she’s at school that will have to wait till when they get back. Oh wait, you got that thing with the school, I guess that can work out.”

“Yup. I was going to stop by today and see if the class is good to go or not. Give me something to pass the time in between feedings.” I admitted.

“True.” Blitz said, placing his eggs on a plate. “You be safe, alright?”

“Of course love. I doubt any of those kids could do any real damage on me, even after their training is done.” I said with a slight roll of my eyes.

“Still, I know you. Don’t go looking for trouble. That’s my job.” He chuckled.

“Dear, Trouble just loves my company.” I giggled before going up stairs to start up the milkers. Scotch will need a few bottles between now and when I get back after all. “Have a good day at work Blitz. Be safe now.”

I headed out, making my way through the town’s roads. I noticed I was...getting attention from guys...and a few girls. I had some mixed feelings. On one hand, it’s good to know I’m attractive to others as a mare...on the other… it’s kinda embarrassing, and I’m married…. Did people do this when I was a stallion as well and I just never noticed? Or am I just being paranoid?

I slither my way to the school, trying to ignore the small blush I have from all the stairs. It just… makes me feel uneasy about it all.

I entered Cheerilee’s office. “Um, hello...who are you?” She asked. Guess none of the kids told her.

“Hey Cheer, It’s me Eclipse.. Or well, Eclipsa now. Can blame the hubies for that…”

“... Uh...I have no words.” She said, looking like her brain was Windows Xp trying to run Crysis 3. “Well...I guess at this point I should expect stranger. Anyway, I assume you are here about the class, correct?”

“Yup. Oh also if Male versions of Shy, Dash and Luna show up, to not instantly call 911 if and when they pick up the kids.”

“...Right… anyway. I spoke to the other teachers about this matter and we all agreed. After giving the forms to the Board of Education, they where approved this morning. I’m making up the forms for parents now. It will take some time to build the extension to the school, but something just for a desk since these activities will be taking place outside, and on rainy days in the cafeteria. By next week you can report for work. Oh, after you fill out some paperwork here first. Have to get you into the system first.”

“Alright then. Lets get started and out of your mane.” I said with a good natured smile. So glad I’m not a guy or my own voice probably would have taken a lot of willpower to resist.

“Alright then. I have the new hire forms here so please take a seat.” She said as I did. She placed the paper and a pen for me as I began filling them out. It was a lot like a job application back on earth, only it also asked for a drawn image of your cutie mark.

I doodled a sketch of Oblivion and Oathkeeper, and I circled the odd “Both” for the gender choice. Figured I’d be honest. After double and triple checking the forms for any errors, I handed it back. “And there we are.”

“Alright then.” She said, looking it over. “Okay, I’ll get this sent to the heads in the District and you’ll need something that fits the school code for teachers to wear. Since you’ll be the equivalent of a gym teacher a simple white top and shorts...or maybe a skirt, in your case, for you. Come the end of the week everything should be done and I can make your ID badge here that same day.”

“Alrighty then. See you later Cheer. Oh, and I owe you a spa trip after dealing with my bunch for the last year.” I said with a smile.

“Heh, I might just take you up on- hang on.” She said, looking at the paper again. “You left the address blank. We need that for mailing you important papers and your paychecks.”

I looked quicically. I could have sworn… “Oh I’m sorry, I thought I filled that in.” I said, going back over.

“Heh, it’s alright. It is the last line on the paper so it is pretty easy to overlook.” She chuckled a I filled it in, making sure it was there as I handed it back to her. She looked it over. “And that’s it. Anything else I can do for you at the moment? You can get a parent pass and visit your kids in class. Nothing said ‘I’m a mom’ like visiting your foals in school.”

“Hehe, don’t tempt me.” I giggled. “Are there any more problems after I talked to them?”

“So far no, but I’ll keep you posted. Plus with you here I have a feeling they won’t be as brave in their stunts.” She chuckled.

“Heh, Well, I’d love to see them in class later. Besides, I know Sciath at least will be excited. The others will be a toss up, but that’s the price of motherhood.”

“Heh, yeah… Well, see you around.” Cheers said as I left.

Leaving the school I decided to check in on Spoiled Rich. I know she is awake already. Heading to the hospital I was allowed to visit, that same nurse from last time was there… and despite the gender change she still looked at me and was likely daydreaming. I entered Spoiled’s room. She was in some leg casts, three iv drips hooked into her and a feeding tube up her nose. The bruises where less noticeable, but looking you still saw outlines. Then the stitches...scars. The mange in her coat and mane. God, she’s getting better but she still looks like hell.

“Hey Spoiled. Looking like you can go prowling already.” I chuckled nervously. Why did I feel the need to say that?

“Hm? Eclipse? Is that you? Your tone of voice sounds like you but it’s different. Can’t see at the moment, medicine causes some temporary blindness. You sound like a mare? Dare I ask why?”

“Long story short, Shy, Luna, Dash and I have all swapped genders for a year, and I’m already carrying.” i said, Good, even Gender switched doesn't make me less blunt.

“Wow, well, good luck. Birth is a pain like you can’t imagine. I remember when I went into labor with Tiarra. It felt like I was being torn in half, swore my flesh would tear at any moment. And that was with the morphine.” She said. “So, come to visit? Tiarra told me about her slumber party, and what she and that daughter of yours Scootaloo have been doing. Can’t say I blame her. It may sound odd, or maybe not to you, but inside that stomach of yours I never felt more safe in that year of hell, or in general in my entire life. Whatever that belly of yours secretes dulled the pain for nine hours after you spit me out.”

“I gave some for the doctors to test. So hopefully, as much as you won’t feel as safe, you’ll be getting healed much faster.” I said with a softness in my voice.

“I know. I’m on their prototype right now. Pain is still there but dulled. Least I’m not screaming or in a medicated coma. So far temporary blindness and loss of appetite are the only side effects. Eclipse, I want to ask you something.”

“Ask away. We are both ladies here.” I chuckled, figuring she could use a laugh.

“Heh...Eclipse, I don’t know what they did to me. But almost every day since I arrived they were cutting me up and...did something with my insides. The doctors said I look fine, if not a few organs out of place. But they kept slicing me as if I was having a c section.”

“If… if you want I could look with my magic, see what is up. They may have only changed a few physical components, but I don’t think the doctors bothered to look at the magical due to your being a earth pony.” I said, honestly caring for her.

“I’m afraid to know if anything is up...but, please. Do.”

“Alright then. With the way my Gray works, even if it doesnt like my magic, it won’t cause you any harm.” I said, resting my hand reassuringly on her shoulder before closing my eyes, Gray colorless smoke leaking out of the corners of my eyes. As I focused on her body, physical, magical, and spiritual, everything else faded away.

At first, nothing seemed out of order. But, as I arrived at her womb area, I noticed something. A spark of magic, this felt like...with Rarity and that stone… Spoiled is pregnant? Hoping that is not the case, I continued to look, expanding my view to also look at myself and to compare the energy feeling in me. I do not want to tell her that.

When it arrived at my wombs… NINE! I HAVE NINE IN ME!?!?! That’s triplets from each of the hubbies… Oh FUCK! Eheh...erm...anyway, sadly, they matched up...to a T… Spoiled is pregnant...and I am crazy fertile. I gulped before continuing my scan on Spoiled, looking for anything else out of place, out of the norm. After concluding that yes, nothing else is weird, I pulled my hand away and opened my eyes.

“Well...what’s the issue?” She asked. She looked so worried...so scared.

I gently held her close, knowing what she is about to hear is going to hurt like nothing else. “S-Spoiled… Whatever those fucks did to you… Tiara is going to be a sister.” I said, confusing myself as to why tears are streaming down my face.

She inhaled slowly...before smiling. “Rich and I… before this whole thing started… maybe...they were trying to prevent it’s development? Otherwise, my foal would have been born already...Do you think that’s all they were doing?”

I could hear it in her voice. She was begging for some glimmer of hope. Stars help me… “I... I can check, one more time. I just want to confirm something, alright?” I said, closing my eyes. Little known fact, Children’s magical Aura start out as a pure mix of their parents, and even when they get older, they retain some of their parent’s signature. That is what I was checking on the baby.

I could tell it was Spoiled magic in there. Sadly… I don’t know Rich’s. This other half it’s made of could be anyone for all I know. Idea. “Spoiled, Do you have anything that Ritch would often use his magic on? I want to get to know his signature.” I’m desperate okay? I...I need to give Spoiled an answer.

“Hmm… Maybe in his office at the manor, or at his store. He spent many hours in those places… Oh! Tiara’s Tiara, he made it himself, mined the diamonds in them himself and melted the silver. Smithing was a hobby of his, but after Tiara was born he got rid of it all so she wouldn’t get hurt if she found his smithing area. If anything has his magic in it it has to be her tiara.”

I smile. That was so sweet. “Alright then, I’ll talk to her and come back, hopefully with more answers.”

“Don’t have to wait, she left it here. In the bedside table. She left it so we both can remember him when she’s here.”

Stop being so sweet damn it! I smiled before shifting my magical focus over to the tiara. I already know Diamond’s already, I just need Ritch’s. Oh please let the kid be Ritch’s. I don’t want to tell her otherwise. I felt the magic in the crown. A lot of it was clearly Tiara’s but the feel of Rich’s magic was still there, holding strong. I compared it… it...it’s not a match...

My mouth went dry and I bet Spoiled noticed how stiff I became. “It’s...not his...is it?” She asked.

I held her tighter, choking on the word. “No.”

I could hear her trying to speak, words failing her at the moment. “W...well… I guess...it doesn’t matter.” She sighed. “Whoever’s it is, that psycho doctors or...whoever, it’s still my foal. All I can do is...hope they never turn out like whoever the father or those sick people are.”

I took a shaky breath before focusing on my godly powers, giving Spoiled a small touch on her forehead. “If you ever need anything, my entire family is here to help. And I give you, and the child, my blessing, for what it is worth. If they are ever a danger, they will be put someplace where they will harm no one. If he is not a danger and needs help, he will be able to find his way to my family safely. And you… I bless you with good health. A small price for my failure.”

“Heh, I need that.” She said, taking a long, solom sigh. “Eclipse. I need to ask a favor of you.”

“What is it? If it can be done, I will do so.” I said, my mood being very protective of the broken, strong mare.

“If by the time this foal is born, and I’m still in this hospital, not healed enough to…” She gulped. “To survive...I want you to take care of Tiara, and the foal. Rich’s layer came here and named me sole owner since I ended up alive. If I die giving birth to this foal, I want to name you This foal and Tiara’s legal guardian and parent, and inherent Barnyard bargains. I wouldn’t ask this if you if I knew for sure this wouldn’t be an issue. But the doctors said as is, my body can’t handle stress, and having a foal… If I survive them growing in me I’ll be unable to even lift a hoof, let alone survive the birth.”

I held her close. “It won’t come to that okay. But… if the unspeakable happens… I will be there.”

“Thank you. You are too good to be real, you know that?” She asked. “Please, tell no one of what we spoke of here. I’ll have the nurse call my layer, same pony as Rich, to get the paperwork settles in case.”

“Alright, and please, I just do what I feel is right. Sometimes that isn’t always a good thing.”

“Thank you. And please, tell nopony of this conversation...especially Tiara. She’s prone to taking action. The last thing I want if for her to do something rash and terrible.”

“I won’t, save for maybe my partners. They should know-”

“Eclipse, please.” She cut me off. “Not a soul. A dying mare’s last wish.”

That choked me better than any threat to the reality ever could. I gave her a gentle squeeze before sighing out. “I promise. Not a soul.”

“Thank you.” She said, managing to move her cast hoof to a call nurse button. “You have a lot to process. If you weren’t pregnant, I’d say head to a bar, heh. But givin you are, best head over to Sugar Cube corner. A mare’s best friend in a time of sadness is sweets. Ask Rarity, heh, I know how much ice cream she can shove down when she’s sad.”

“Heheh, should have seen me this morning, craving nothing that wasn't a Paopu fruit with Chocolate.” I giggled half heartedly.

“Heh, my cravings with Tiara were Ice cream, pickles, and hay burgers. Occasionally seltzer water.”

“Hehe, thats interesting. For Luna if it didn’t have chocolate, forget it, including water.” I giggled.

“Wow. And here I thought it was her sister with the sweet tooth. If the newspapers were to be believed.” She sighed, the nurse coming in. “Till next time Eclipse. Nurse, please call my lawyer, I just want to get somethings organized.”

I nodded before remembering she can’t see right now. “Be safe Spoiled. I’ll stop buy later, maybe even with a few treats.” I said before leaving the hospital, my heart heavy.

I did as she recommended and headed to Sugar Cube corner. Once there I began eating order, after order of sweets and ice cream. “Having a bad day?” I looked up. Pinkie Pie? She looked so...different.

“Hey Pinks… You could say that.” I said, not even assuming she doesnt know it’s me.

“Dash, or rather, Blitz told me the whole story.” Pinkie said, taking a seat. She was really different. Not the super young party pony I knew and enjoyed upon my time in this town. She was...wise, in her movements, more mature, and...calmer. Bags under her eyes spoke a lot, most I can guess. “If I had the time, I’d throw some kind of early baby shower thing.”

“Heh, I bet, but I know you have your own hooves full…. Sorry I wasn’t here love… I could have done something.” I said to the fellow 4th wall breaker.

“I’ve made my peace with things.” She said, taking a spoon of my ice cream. “The twins are in preschool now. But the shop takes up that time.”

“I would offer to help… But I already signed for a job at the school..” I say sadly. “But enough doom and gloom, We don’t want to end up like how Xin and Ben are, Right? Lance and Bio prefer me being the happy one after all.” I said with a small chuckle.

“That depends, what arch is this for you?” She chuckled. “I guess all things considered I lucked out. My family survived the attack...but my dad lost his front right leg. The experience changed him. Not in a bad way, just made him wanna see outside the farm. So, we rent the farm cheap to AJ, I know she’ll take care of it. Might not even do anything to it. Dad and mom are traveling now and my sisters all moved in with me here to help, save for Maud. She’s off exploring and researching rocks.”

“All things considered that’s not that bad at all.” I smiled in relief, taking another spoonful of ice cream. “Strange being down to earth for once, everything seems so much simpler fighting reality destroying threats.” I chuckled.

“Same. I saw...when Mr and Miss Cake where… you know. It was...horrible. I was lucky the twins were out cold when I took them to hide. They slept through the whole thing… better than having witnessed it. I still have nightmares, but, I still try and find reason to smile.”

“There is always a reason to keep going. I should know, i had to hold on to one as I was in front of the Big Bang.” I laughed.

“Heh. So, how’s handling simplicity? Nothing to fight, just whatever to pass the time? I know you are used to fighting, almost constantly.”

“Oh I found a way. I’m teaching self defence at the school for those without Keyblades.”

“Heh, cool. I’d be careful if I were you though, those knockers on your chest should count as clubs with how big they are.” She joked, taking another spoon of Ice Cream.

“Hmm… wonder if Bio would allow that…” I said, a serious look of contemplation before laughing hard.

“Depends, think there’s a reader who will pay?” She chuckled. “Ever wonder when it all changed? I know you were gone the year it happened but...after that day, things changed, and at some point we stopped noticing when it did. My sisters saw me talking and acting this way and thought I was a changeling for a while. Rarity a surrogate, Applejack and Flim a couple? Twilight off a co-wife with your biological parents and so on. Everything changed and at some point, we just get used to it without realizing it.”

I sighed. “I don’t understand it myself Pinkie. I always adapted fast, and to be honest, I’ve been hiding just how lost and confused I really am. Everything is in constant change, and I bet even to an extent the Authors are unsure as to what is going on. Things are changing, the code is breaking, and soon, will we even be us any more, or are only us who can see the readers and the authors be the ones left knowing the truth?”

“Hard to say. I tend to prefer thinking about the positives that worrying about negatives is...new. You know, I bet you changed to a mare and got knocked up just so you have an excuse not to leave, to not miss out on anything for as long as you can, because, I mean, how could you? You’re growing lives, throwing yourself into danger and missing more of your families lives. When you think about it, changing gender and getting knocked up isn’t that bad of an idea to force yourself to stay and enjoy what you’ve been fighting for.”

“Heh, you know me too well Pinks. As much as I never expected to take to being a mare so well… it’s nice having an excuse not to leave.” I admitted taking a spoonful.

“Yeah. As for your taking to a mare so well, it might be how you grew up. As a human, it was only you and your mother when she was around. As a pony, it was you, Twilight and Velvet. Nightlight was often at work and Shining was either in school on dates with Cadence or in guard boot camp. You’ve been around females more than you realize. That could be a contributing factor.”

“Maybe. It’s a sound theory, if just a theory.” A GAME… wrong reality Lance.

“Hey, I have the shop closed tomorrow to inventory restock and cleaning. It only takes a few hours. Maybe I can bring the twins over and your foals and them can have a playdate? Heh, assuming you don’t just swallow them and they have a playdate in your belly.”

“Hehe, I don’t see why not, I have nothing else planned until friday.” I giggled. “Thanks Pinks, It’s good to know that your spirit never changed.”

“Same.” She said. “So, other than that how’s being a mare? I imagine sex is a whole new serial experience?”

“Yup, officially now consider myself Bi.” I giggled.

“Well, you’re a mare right now so the term would be straight, unless you and the girls, when they were girls, had a little fun~”

“Oh I did. Two words. Flutters. Bathtub.”

“Sounds kinky.” Pinkie chuckled. “I’ll put these sweets on a tab for you to pay later. Head on off, school lets out in like two hours so you best head home to greet the kids. Oh, and Eclipsa.”

“Yes Pinkie?” I asked, Finishing up my ice cream.

“Have you noticed Tiara’s pattern?”

“Her pattern? Which pattern?”

“Zeke’s experienced life changing trama, Ben’s lost both parents, and now, yours lost Rich, and when that foal is born… You even noticed they all have the same Keyblade? Not even all my reflections share the same Keyblade. Isn’t that a tad interesting?”

“Yes… it is. Almost as big as a mystery as myself, being the literal anomaly I am. It’s something I’ll ask Crip about when I get the chance. If he doesn’t know, than it is a rule so ingrained into reality not even the authors can change it.”

“Who knows, but it might be worth asking your Tiara about the day her dad was turned heartless and mom was taken, or maybe even ask Spoiled. Who knows, another perspective might give some more insight.”

“Why don’t I go to you for ideas more? Lance, Bio, answers?”

“Cause that’s lazy writing.” She smiled, tilting her head.

“Meh, tell me about it. They had me reload a pistol without there being any known ammo in the first place. Gods they are lazy. Oh and Lance, kiss my ass, you’re not censoring this one.” I smirked up at the co-author.

“Think of it this way, it’s Left 4 Dead, handguns have infinite ammo. Not too strange given that.” She said, getting off the chair. “Well I gotta get back to the kitchen. Good luck Eclipsa.”

“You two Pinks. May your heart be your guiding key.” I said as I finished up what was on the table before heading out.

Taking her advice, I went back to Spoiled. Her lawyer just leaving as I entered. “Ah, Eclipse. I can see now, thank the stars...holy Celestia’s waving mane you look good. Have to admit, I’m jealous.”

“Am I really that good looking?” I asked with a small, embarrassed blush.

“Yes. As you just saw I've settled the paperwork with my lawyer. Is there something you wish to speak about?”

“Yes… Though, I’ll understand if you don’t want to speak about it.” I said, slithering over next to her.

“Well, let me hear it.”

“I was wanting to ask about that day… the day you were taken and Ritch was lost…”

She took a deep breath. “What exactly do you wish to know?”

“I want to hear a few details… revolving around Tiara.”

“Well, I will tell what I can.”

“Was there anything off about the way the heartless acted around her, or maybe something about Tiara that just spoke about an attunement to darkness?” I asked

“Well, I remember them passing her. That… bizarre Keyblade was in her teeth.”

“Do you remember her ever having had the keyblade ceremony at all?”

“Yes. Your Scootaloo gave it to her. Despite apparently not being a master she can bequeath them. It was a strange one. The tip had this… it looked like a goat head on a blue clock.” No Name. Young Xehanort's Keyblade. Same as Zeke's Tiara.

“Well, something tells me that keyblade chose her, but Scoots just gave the key as it were… But there is something I need to tell you. The Spoiled that kidnaped you was from Daybreak. You and her are almost genetically the same, only she is anthro. The same must hold true for Tiara and Zeke’s, both of which have the same keyblade.”

“Huh… but wouldn't that be common for reflections? It only makes sense? Right?”

I shook my head. “While yes there are quite a few genetic similarities between reflections, they are never as close as this one is with Zeke’s. You are 97.5% a match for her genetically, the other 2.5 being what makes her anthro and you pony.”

“Huh...but what does this have to do with Tiara?”

“Her keyblade is a keyblade with the unique ability of time manipulation. Plus, as much as it is faint due to unuse, she does have a natural affinity to darkness.”

“Oh...so you are saying...she could be dangerous? To herself and others?”

“I’m saying that ontop of being trained, she needs to know one truth, you can’t change the past, only add to it. I’m afraid she will find out about her Keyblade’s ability and try and go back… and get herself hurt.”

“Well...I trust you to do that. Just be careful. Tiara is a clever one. Not easily fooled.”

“I know… I just hate seeing kids suffer. Guess its one of my many weaknesses.” I chuckle.

“As it should be. As a parent, a mother especially.”

“Heh, well, thanks for helping to clear things up. I’ll talk to her about it when I get the chance.” I smiled. “I won’t let her travel that path.”

Just then I began hearing the ever familiar sound of Rarity scream… not of fear, or a fashion emergency...pain. “Get this mare to the labor ward!” I heard somepony yell… she went into labor!

I quickly summoned the Heart Stone, thanking Spoiled for the talk before rushing out the door, following instinct to find Rarity. I came up to the doors to the room she was birthing the foal in, the hubbies all there. “Eclipsa! Oh thank goodness.” Butterscotch said. “Rarity went into labor early, Star is calling Fancy and Flure now since she wasn't due till the end of the week.”

“I need to get in, Rarity wanted me to be around with this during the birth.” I said, holding up the now brightly shining stone.

“Well get some scrubs on and head on in.”

I nodded, getting on the gear before heading inside. It was sooo uncomfortable, more so as a mare, but it needs to happen. Once inside I was told to hold her hoof… my hand is crushed… grunting I beared through it. Finally the foal was coming out, and the stone began glowing. “You are doing amazing Deary, you can do this!” I encouraged, ready for any retort that may come as the stone got brighter by the second.

She was in the final moments. Just the last of the foals legs then… crying… a babies cries. The doctors quickly began cleaning up the foal, cutting the umbilical cord and the stone was a glow of white light energy. They handed the foal to Rarity. It had Fancy Pants mane, but it had Rarity's eyes. Since they both have white coats the foal also had a white coat. A colt! It's a colt!

I helped fix Rarity’s mane for her, covered in sweat as it was. “You did it. You did it Rarity.” I said, showing her the now white light of a stone.

“Yes… yes I did.” She was breathing heavy, holding the foal. “My, my word… he's lovely...just...lov...ly.”

Beep-beep-beep.

“Code blue!” The doctor yelled. A nurse took the foal. Running out of the room while everypony else began moving fast. “Get some chest paddles in here!”

“Ma'am you need to leave.” Another doctor said, leading me out.

“What is code blue?” I asked calmly, fearing the worst.

“...Flatlined.” She said, pushing me out the door, into the lobby. “We need to jumpstart her heart.”

“Clear!” The doctor inside yelled as this one closed the door.

I closed my eyes and sent out a “small” wave of healing magic, not really caring if it affected the entire hospital. “Please Rarity… Survive.” I said before sitting down with Scotch, Star, Fancy and Flure, taking off the scrubs.

Hours passed. The hubbies checked in on her foal, and I just stayed here… how long… how much longer? Finally, a doctor came over. “How is she?” I asked the unspoken question on all of our minds.

“I...I'm sorry. But it seems there wasn't enough liquid for the foal when in her womb. Had we known this earlier a C section would have kept her alive, but she refused further tests at the foals later developments. As a result the friction of the foals birth tore her womb open. She bleed internally… the chest paddles were useless and no amount of healing magic can stop that much sudden blood loss… we're sorry.” He said, walking back into the room, it's light turning off.

I stood there, unmoving as the words repeated in my head. “No…. No n-not Rarity….” Somewhere, I felt the Element of Generosity inside the tree flicker and dim, the rest of the lights all feeling it from within their very beings. “Not her…”

It was that same day, back home. We were allowed to take the foal home. Flure and Fancy were informed, as were Rarity's parents. Sweetie Belle is gonna be with us a while. Flure and Fancy named the foal Fancy Fashion. I was in the living room, nursing the newborn. I just… couldn't let him go...

What could I have done… Rarity… She and I may not have always saw eye to eye, but we were best friends. She was the one who designed my Jacket, the one thing that saved my life more times than I can bother to count. She taught me the difference between a warrior brute, and the Knight I strive to be day after day. I had the energy to save her… I’m a god for fuck sake! WHAT KIND OF GOD AM I IF I CAN SAVE ONE DAMNED LIFE?! I hid my emotions well, but I couldn't stop the single tear rolling down my face, and sadly, others took note of it by how rarely I cried.

“Eclipsa.” Scotch said, walking up to me.

“What use is godly powers if I can’t save even one life? I may have saved Spoiled…. But with her wounds, how long? I couldn’t help Rarity… I can’t do anything save for destroy…I-”

“Eclipsa,” he cut me off. “Everypony… everyone… dies. Even a god can't break that fact. One day… I will, Blitz will, Star, you, and someday, as much as we hate to think about it, the kids will too. If it is their time, what kind of god brings them back for no reason other than selfish sorrow and pity?”

“I know that…. I know…. I…. I just…. I could have done something… Rarity indirectly saved my life so many times. The jacket she made and that you and all the others enchanted kept me alive throughout all my adventures. She was always there, Being a voice of refinement, teaching me the difference between a pure warrior, and a knight. She… She…. There will never be another like her, Reflections be damned.”

“That is true, but if your best still couldn't keep her alive, then it was meant to be. I… I still want to run to her shop, and see her in her workroom, or in the showroom… but if I go, all I'll find is an empty building with clothes and mannequins. We can't change fate, we just accept it, and learn to live with it.”

I leaned into Scotch and silently let loose the dams, crying freely into his shoulder. “Sh-she took my jacket to work on it… L-later I w-want to go into h-her room and see it… see what she has done… her second to last work.”

“Second to last?” Scotch asked, hugging me tight but keeping room for the foal, still feeding from me.

I rocked the foal. “Y-yeah… second to last… she made this little guy after all…” I then and there blessed the kid…. It was the least I could do for Rarity. Legally she may have been the aunt to the kid…. But she still made him damn it.

Scotch nodded. “Okay, but first, you have something to do.” Scotch said, letting go and lifting up the stone. “Please, don't put it off.”

I nodded before taking the stone, Summoning Oath and Oblivion to my side. ‘You two… how do I do this?’

”Once. But leave the foal with your partners. It's late and cold outside.”

I nodded, wiping my face before reluctantly taking the foal away from no teat. “Now now, be nice to Uncle Scotch, alright?” I said, covering myself back up and handing Fashion to Scotch. “I need to do this outside. Hold on to him, alright?”

“Of course.” Scotch said, taking Fashion.

I headed outside, Oath told me we had to a hill in a forest clearing. Once I arrived I pulled out the stone. “What now you two? Do you need to be Better Half to make it work?”

”Well last time we did this Kingdom Hearts was out and about in the sky, so if Better Half can summon our maker, then yes.”

I nodded before combining the two into Better Half. “Here’s to hoping this works.” I said before pointing the blade up to the sky. “Kingdom hearts, Come on out you cliche bastard. I know you are watching and I have a heart waiting to be created for you.” I said, much to Oath’s horror and Oblivion’s laughter.

The nights clouds began to circle, and opened up, the massive heart shaped moon appearing in the sky, completely blocking Luna's moon.

”Hold the stone up to them.” Oath told me.

Listening to her, I hold up the stone, still shining bright with the yet unborn heart inside.

It shot down a single beam of light, hitting the stone. It began floating out of my grasp, and cracked. The rock falling off...as a heart emerged from within. It floated around me for a time, then flew up to Kingdom Hearts. “And a new Heart is born… Lets hope it gets it’s shot at life before the shit goes down.” I said to myself. “That was it KH, unless of have to tell me something or provide a new Deus Ex Machina?”

It pulsated, sending another, larger ray of light down as… a Keyblade appeared

I lost my voice, staring at the keyblade floating before me. “W-why…” I asked, looking down. To my surprise… a heart floated down… Rarity? “R-rares? Why are you… a keyblade?”

The heart flashed twice… one means yes, twice means no… “So you’re not a keyblade… but asked for one to help me?”

No Darling. Her voice… The Keyblade then began to float, moving through the trees. Follow the Key Darling.

I shook out of my shock before following the keyblade, Kingdom Hearts still shining brightly in the sky. I hear quite a few people coming out of their houses in shock but right now it doesn't matter, I need to follow this key. I need to know what Rarity wants me to see.

It lead me to Celestia and Luna’s old castle. Here I was led to the Tree of Harmony. There, the Key floated, until a crystal vine grew from the ground and wrapped around it, the element of Generosity glowing brightly amung it’s follow elements. One down, five to go. I am gone from this world Eclipse, and so, the elements have lost touch with their remaining physical bearers. Find the new bearers, and the Tree, and Kingdom Hearts will give you the strength needed to keep hearts and Harmony safe. I know grey is more your area, heh, but please, this must be done to protect Equestria. Rarity’s heart…’spoke.’

I bowed to the heart much like a real Knight would, a small, sad smile on my face. “As you wish my lady Rarity.” I said, knowing this won’t be easy.

We don’t know who the new bearers are, but we do know they are on Equestria.[i/] Just then, five more Keyblades appeared...each for their element.

Like the first, crystal vines grew from the ground, and wrapped around them. When the bearers have been found, they can claim their weapons, and so long as new bearers are found when the old ones can no longer protect, Equestria will be safe.

“I will do all I can Rare’s… I’ll also make sure Fancy Fashion is safe. He is your blood, as much as you are legally his aunt.” I said

Thank you, may we meet again, in my next life.

“We will. And when my time comes, I’ll see you on the other side.” I said with a small smile, finally having closure.

Her heart faded into the light, Kingdom Hearts vanishing and the Keyblades resting, awaiting their wielders. I sighed and gave a small bow to the tree. “Keep them safe. I’ll be back with your new chosen.”

I went back home, and saw Tiara on the couch...arm bruised?! And motherly instincts kicked in like a wildfire burning down a dry bush filled forrest. “Tiara, what happened? Did something attack you?” I asked, quickly going over to her and checking out her foreleg.

“No, was trying out Keyblade tricks when one of the other kids threw a strike raid too close. Justin said it was pretty good considering normally my arm would be sliced by that attack. They sent me home early but my butler was taking his nap and with mom in the hospital...I hoped to find somepony here to help. But the others were out.”

“Yeah… The others are at the hospital. Don’t worry, they aren't hurt but it’ll be awhile before they are back.” I said, summoning Oathkeeper and tapping the bruise “Cure.” I said before disbanding the blade. “So how was your day?”

“Eh, not too bad.” She said, summoning her Keyblade… No Name… “Dumb thing. Can’t even perform a simple spell or attack. I swear it’s useless. Justin said it’s rare as rare can get but personally I don’t buy it…”

Damn… I need to tell her. No secrets, save for the one I promised to Spoiled. “I think because you are not forming a bond with your keyblade to learn what it wants.” I said, deciding to play it safe with how I approach it.

“A...bond? Like, how do I do that?”

“First, before I tell you, I need to let you know something.” I took a breath, here we go… “No Name is the Keyblade of Time. It is most known for its ability to screw with time like nobody’s business. But I need to let you know this. Stop time is the most I ever want to find out you have done. You can never change what has already happened, in fact by going back into the past, you normally cause whatever you try to prevent.”

She looked at the Keyblade. “...I don’t buy it.” Say what? “Control time? I know they can do a lot but...that’s kind of a stretch.”

“Not as much as you think. Go ahead. Try and cast Stop.” I said, preparing for the inevitable.

“I know about the stop spell. Really, just not that good with magic...at all.”

Huh. I smiled before focusing on her own internal magic to see if there was a problem. “I’m sure I can help you, if you want.”

When I did…. Dear lord...so much darkness… it’s like that Embodiment I killed...so pure…. “Uhh, you okay? Your face is pale? Ah! Am I sick?!”

“No no, Just… finding out why you have trouble casting normal magic.” I said, unable to break my gaze on that darkness. “Most magic you are taught uses light as a source, or pure mana. You…. You have one of the strongest afinities to Darkness I have seen without losing yourself.”

“And...that’s bad...right?”

I smiled. “No, no it isn't.” I took a breath. “Darkness isn’t evil, just misunderstood and used for bad reasons. Even my new power, called grey, would not have been made if I didn’t know how to use my darkness.”

“Oh...so, am I the only one like this then?” Huh, well I know… Zeke and Ben’s DT’s also have this Keyblade, but if I remember from reading the others stories, Zeke’s DT also acquired the Gazing Eye when she got enraged… This might be worth looking into.

“No, but you are definitely the most advanced I’ve seen.” I said, curling around her and holding her gently. “I can teach you all you need to know. I’ll talk to justin, and he will teach you about how to use your keyblade, But I’ll teach you how to make peace with your darkness. After all” I smiled. “Wolf was originally my darkness.”

“Uh...I can try...but how? You just said it’s a higher affinity than you’ve ever seen, so who can teach me that’s on my same affinity level?” Hmm… True, Wolf knows his stuff but nothing major… To the Assistant!

“I can find a member of my extended family who is willing. But if they look strange in any way, it is because they are from another Reflection. Who knows, it could even be another you.” I said, pulling it up and looking through, sending a general message to the family.

There wasn’t much, but as I was searching Tiara’s Keyblade began glowing...dark. “Uhh...is this normal?” DT asked.

I close my eyes before summoning Oath and Oblivion. ‘You two, I need a little help here. Keep No Name calm while I teach DT how to talk to him.’

”What are we?! Having a death wish!?”

‘Would being Better half Help?! Look, I just need time while I teach her.’

”Uh, Eclipse. No Name here and Gazing Eye were the first ever Twin Keyblades forged, while both work with darkness their potential with light is equally terrifying. Besides, he’s not mad, he’s looking for a teacher for his master. Besides I am not getting into a fight against him! Last time that happened a reflection of mine was shattered to micro dust!”

I sighed, rubbing my temples. “Alright you two, I get it. No name, a little warning would have been nice, but thanks for the help.” I told they keyblades out loud before turning to DT. “To answer your question, You’re keyblade is looking for a master to help you.”

”...Found them.” No Name spoke… And with a freaky voice like that if I had an asshole I’d be shitting from it about now...

“You creepy man.” I told they keyblade with a good natured laugh.

Just then two DTD’s opened up. And from them… Two Diamond Tiara’s? Anthro ones.

“Ouch…” The one in a pink hoodie spoke.

“Same…” The other, wearing a white shirt, khaki short shorts spoke.

“Sorry ‘bout that. Seems No Name didn’t tell you two you were coming did he?” I asked the two, going over to help them up.

“Mine did.” The one in a white shirt spoke. “Damn jerk whispers from time to time and only in the dark of night when I’m all alone, frankly it’s creepy as all hell.” She groaned. “Oh...two others of me… well, this is confusing.

“I, uh, mostly go by Tiara.” My Tiara said.

“Alright, then I’ll just go by DT for the time being.”

“So I’m Diamond then?” The last one in the hoodie asked, the other two nodding.

“Alright then. DT, Diamond, This is Tiara. She needs help and a teacher for her Darkness, and Since I am a Grey and don’t have her level of Darkness, No Name decided to grab you two to help her.” I summed up.

“Oh, well my darkness might not be the best but I know how to attack with light.” Diamond said.

“Guess that’s darkness for me...been known to have that happen...often…” Being nosey I decided to check on these two’s darkness…. Okay, so Diamond’s isn’t that big, it’s actually smaller than Tiara’s...but DT… Dear lord it’s like someone put the Realm of Darkness into a thirteen year old girls body! It’s dwarfing the both of them! Zeke what the hell!

I filled myself with my grey just to feel safe as I forced myself to look away. “Alright, I have a few spare rooms in the house here if you want, or Tiara, they can stay at your place if you want them to.” I said, Unknowingly having a grey aura surrounding me from how much I pulled into myself.

“Meh.” DT said.

“Thank you.” Diamond said.

“So, what can you do little filly?” DT asked.

“Well, not much.” Tiara admitted. “Can’t even do some basic tricks and such properly.”

“Oh, well don’t worry, with us, Diamond there can teach you to use those spells and I can teach you to do this!” She said…. EIGHT DARK GUARDIANS AT ONCE!!!! “Heh, makes choars crazy eazy.” She chuckled… God damn you Zeke...

I waved at the Guardian. “Hey Guardian, How’s it been?” I asked, a small smile on my face. “Thanks for the help last time we met.”

They all nodded, one of them opening a small dark portal, reaching into it and pulling out a box, and giving it to me. “It’s a gift, for something you spoke about.” DT said with a smile.

I took it with a nod. “Thank you. I’ll open it after all this is sorted out.” I said before turning to the Tiaras. “Alright, it’s getting late so unless there is something you want to teach Tiara right now, she does need to get some dinner before going to bed. It’s a school night.” I said, making my way to the kitchen… feeling the urge to cook like crazy, Naga style.

“No school, yay.” DT said.

“Same, mainly cause of Jenny.” Diamond said.

“You three take a seat. Soon the rest of the family will be by and then we can eat.” I said, feeling my naga heritage flow as I practically danced around the kitchen, cooking I don’t even know, but knowing it will be good~

After the kids went to sleep Diamond crashed on the couch and DT was up, looking at the moon. I went out to DT first. “Enjoying the moonlight?” I asked, slithering on by. The infants wouldn't sleep until I swallowed them, not to mention the rest, so my mane was in a bit more of a mess than usual.

She didn’t reply… it was then I noticed Gazing Eye was in her other hand...and clocks were moving across her eyes...is she...getting some kind of vision? I sighed as I turned my gaze up to the moon. I never trusted Visions. Either there is no way to change them, or the future is filled with so many variables that worrying about it is pointless. That is why I never look into the Author’s plans and stay surprised by everything that comes my way. Because the future is in constant motion, no point in worrying about it until it happens.

When it ended, she took a deep breath. Then noticed me. “Oh, hey.” She said.

“Visions?” I asked, never breaking my gaze to the moon.

“Yeah. Eversince I got Gazing eye, I see them at least once a day. Most of it’s simple stuff, but lately it’s more worrying.”

“It’s about the war coming huh?” I asked

She shook her head. “No. At least, not yet. For example, what I just saw was...a train crash.”

“... I see…. It is in whatever reflection you are in or is it random?” I asked, closing my eyes.

“It’s world specific. As in, it’s always the world I am on.”

“Alright.” I chuckled. “I never put much faith in them. Time moves around too much to be exact. Better to make our own fates. But I’ll keep a ear to the ground.”

She shook her head. “Gazing Eye only shows me events bound to happen, though when he’s never clear on. Just shows the events that can not be changed.”

“If you say so.” I said before chuckling. “It’s safe here for now, relax. Face problems as they come.”

“Maybe. So, what are you gonna name the nine bundles of joy?” She asked, a sly smile. Damn future sights...and my own senses from earlier… nine, freaking NINE!

“No clue, Me nor the Authors have thought of names yet.” I said with a slight, worried smile.

“Heh, so, what are you gonna do?”

“Enjoy life, Look for the new Element bearers, And just… not leave if it can’t be helped.” I said before sighing. “The Elements need new bearers since…. Since Rarity died in childbirth earlier today.”

“My condolences. And when your Spoiled gives birth…?”

“Don’t tell Tiara.” I said, my eyes telling it all. “I promised Spoiled I wouldn’t tell a soul.”

“Don’t worry. Gazing Eye has some rules I have to follow when seeing events. You know that foals will not be normal, right?”

“I don’t have any doubt. They were forced into her by Kexez and Zoiled, as I call her.”

“Heh, Zoiled. That’s now what I’d call dear old mamma.” She said, a twisted grin as she raised up Gazing Eye. “I can’t say much, but I can say that when this foal is born, the war will get very, very interesting.”

“All I will say is that I won’t let those kids suffer… Even if I have to die to make it happen.” I said, solid determination hardening in my eyes.

“Hm...Don’t tempt Death, he loves a gamble.” She said, summoning No Name. “Care to see something?”

I shrugged. “Don’t see why not. Won’t hurt anything.”

Getting up, she swung No Name in the air, the air itself warming and twisting...time travel...now this is interesting. “Come on, little known facts on how No Name’s time travel works.” I nodded and slithered on in, holding myself where the kids are to make sure they are alright during this.

Walking through time was...a bit odd. We arrived in… The Keyblade Graveyard… is that fighting. DT got down near a hill. “Slowly.” She said, the two of us looking up...this is when Vanitas and Ventus fought… before Ventus got taken over by him. “Know this point in time?”

“Yeah, I played the game back on my earth. I know this point. The question is, which reflection...Still mine?”

“This one. Yours.” She said, standing up. She then...threw both Keyblades into a dark strike raid… One sliced Vanitas’s head, and the other, his heart, well, dark half of Ventus’s. He fell, body fading to darkness after that. “Now then, what did we learn?”

“....You changed the past, or you always did change the past at this point.”

“Nope.” She said. “This is what’s known as a fixed point in time. While any points in time can be altered, the resulting future is actually a whole new reflection, created the very second the event was altered to keep time stable. THIS is No Name’s true power, creating Reflections by altering time. So while any point in time can be changed reality created a new reflection where the alteration is the event meant to happen. I learned this...when I did this very thing the first time… though back then it was a total accident.”

“Beyond the fact this is good knowledge to have, why tell me and show me this?” I asked, rubbing my hand to calm the children.

“Because while you can alter important events, there are consequences still. In this reality, Sora, Riku, and Kairi will never know the Heartless, and never leave their island. Or it’s ocean. They leave on the raft, and drown. Terra, Aqua and Ventus’s friendship will break apart until the three masters go their own ways, train their own pupils, and a bad seed from each form a new threat, and create the very same disaster Sora and them would have prevented. Notice the pattern?”

“Yeah, I do.” I said with a heavy sigh.

“When one grand disaster is prevented a new one will take its place. Sometimes less, more often equal to or worse than the one avoided.”

“So there is no true worry about letting Tiara try out her power, as it wont change our timeline?”

“Not exactly. You see, these are events already passed, in the current flow of time she could very well alter the future for us. That in mind I’d like to mention that No Name’s time travel has some rules to it.”

“Such as?”

“For Example traveling back in time can only send you back as far as your conception in reality, meaning the second dad screws mom that’s as far back as I am allowed to travel back. Traveling forwards in time is harder. You need to have a physical you there, and while you both will exist at that same point in the future but if you travel far enough you can only go as far until twenty four hours before your death. Another limitation is that you can only travel forwards in time for a day. After that you are ejected back to the second you left. While you are in the future only your future self can participate in future events, anything you do will be forgotten upon your ejection, and you forget everything you saw and did. But anything such as abilities, a sense of deja vu and purpose you acquire stay with you. While some items are possible to take back in time with you, they have to have existed from when you first went forwards in time.”

“A lot of rules. But makes sense.” I said with a shrug. “Wait, how does time travel work for one like me going into the past? I really was conceived inside the head of a Deity, so not in reality.”

“That’s it, you don’t exist in the past period yet you exist in the present and future. How you are even here is strange. Though at this point we can file it under you are weird.”

“And proud of it!” I giggled. “Well, I’m an timeline anomaly anyways, born from thoughts or not. Other Zekes exist, hell Cript is a reflection of him, But me? I’m the only one… Feels kinda lonely knowing that to be perfectly honest.” I shrugged.

“Well, that’s not entirely true.” Diamond said. “You were reborn into your world, in fact I can actually fast forward this to when you were born on your Equestria, which in this timeline if seven months away.”

“Yeah, but I was placed there by the god that created me, to the point where they said I wasn’t there until Velvet went into labor. The chances of Me being in another timeline are slim.” I said with a shrug. “Doesn't matter that much either way.”

“Still, there’s always that possibility.”

“Well, whatever the case may be, Is this going to be a problem for Tiara?” I asked.

“Yes and no. See, if she learns this ability she could head back in time to when the Heartless attacked your world, saving her parents, but, then there would still be the other her there. So while she can save her parents there will still be the other her there, and since nothing actually affected her timeline, you can imagine she’d be full of rage and confusion at such a realization.”

I sighed. “Sadly I can. But that's when I’ll need to be there the most for her, Being the near unkillable by normal means being I am.”

“Now there’s a rule that’s up in the air.” She chuckled.

“I never wanted immortality by age in the first place. It is a curse, not a power.” I said before shaking my head. “Anyway, Thanks for telling me this. Knowing what we know… I want to be the best I can, even if it is never going to replace what is gone.”

“Yeah...but the best at what though?” She asked, this reflection...going dark.

“I want to be the best parent, the best protector, the best guardian I can be, even if it means sacrificing much to get there.” I said strongly.

“Hm. Interesting. Well, you best be going then.” She said, standing up and walking a few steps ahead.

I followed, having nothing else to do at the moment until we go back.

“You sure you wanna stick around?”

“Got nothing better to do. Besides, You’re my ticket out. And I’m not leaving you here alone.” I said with my signature smile.

She rolled her eyes. “Alright.” Just then, the whole ground shook. “Just don’t tell my dad when you see him. He’d kill me if he knew I was doing this.”

“Deal. We all have our secrets. I’ll respect yours.” I said with a shrug. It wasn’t hard to understand.

“Alright, but I have to ask. Cript has told you that there is always something bigger, right?”

“Yup. Even the keepers of reality have something bigger than them in a never ending circle. Much like how everything has a end.” I said in a relaxed manner.

“Good...cause here comes one.” She said, both her keyblades in her hands.

I summoned my shield and Better Half. “As long as they don’t threaten my children.” I said with a slight hiss in my voice.

Looking ahead, I saw Terra, Ventus and Aqua… they were standing them… not...just three piles of gore, metal and blood...where? I then saw whoever this was. They were thin, like starved thin, wearing ragged clothes like you’d expect egyptian slaves to wear, and their long, black hair covered their face. They were hunched over, looking at the ground and nothing else.

“What is that.” I spoke in a low hiss, keeping it quiet.

I blinked...it was in front of me. It’s hands grabbing Better Half and my shield...It’s neck was cracking as it...twisted it around, snapping it’s own neck rather than just looking up… that...that’s my old face...from earth.. “Well well.” The other hissed. “The Glitch? Hehehe. It must be my lucky day.” It spoke, head now upside down.

Glitch? No, no time for you Curiosity. I rolled my eyes before unsummoning the shield and breaking apart Better half, dual wielding it. “Now now, that is no way to introduce one’s self.” I said with my grin, my eyes seemingly soft, if not for the coldness about them. “Don’t you know it’s rude to come on up to someone like that?”

“Ask me if I care?” It spoke… GAH! I looked down, his arm piercing my belly, and I felt his hand wrapped around my heart. “Time to die, Glitch-” DT jumped in, slicing it’s arm off before… PUNCHING it into the STRATOSPHERE! She then ripped-YEAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH that hurts!

“Sorry, but you do not want that left inside you.” She said, tossing it’s severed arm. “Eclips...a? Eh, meet what Cript calls a Crow.”

I was only half listening, my hand twitching as I tried to control my anger at that… thing that….Crow doing something that threatened MY Children! I took a deep breath. “What are they and what was he just calling me.”

“Crows are like… Insanities but...not crazy, well, less crazy. They eat the souls of those they kill and turn what’s left to, well, a pile of blood. They only eat when the last living thing on a planet is in their sights, then they eat the body. Cript said most are reflections of you, and others. As for the glitch part...not sure. That’s new.” She said, waving her hand and WOW I feel amazing! “That should fix any damage. So, yeah...been getting lessons from Cript. He’s been training me since dad doesn’t want to. I agreed to better learn stuff and get stronger. My Keyblade’s power over time means I can train with Cript for years but to my family I’ve only been gone anywhere from an hour to a day.”

“Much like how I plan to use My realm as a training area? Since it was newly made, it has eons before it reaches the date of the War.” I said, thankful that the heal calmed me or I would have done… I don’t know but it would have been bad. “Still though…. He acted like me being a Glitch or whatever was like finding the winning Lotto Ticket in the trash. Makes me wonder what the hell it means.”

“Well, doubt ugly will tell. But his bosses...maybe.”

“Oh, I’ll ask.” I said, giving the same smile that gives nightmares to battle hardened soldiers. “He threatened my children.” I let everything out, my body becoming ethereal and only semi solid. “Now, he will know true hell… I’ll be back in just a moment.” I said, not even snapping before I appeared in front of the Crow with my hand crushing it’s throat. “It is One thing to threaten me… but you threatened much, much more than that.” I let gray flamed burst out of my hand, covering the Crow.

“Heh, try it.” The Crow said, vanishing from my grasp on it and DT appearing to my right, blades drawn and blocking it’s strike.

“Just get out of here.” She said, opening a DTL. “I’ve killed six of these already...heh, this is my lucky number seven.”

“...” I forced myself to respond, my need to carve into his flesh slowly being reined in by the need to keep the kids, both unborn and inside my stomach, safe. I walked past DT, tapping her shoulder to, temporarily, let her use gray just as well as I can. “Give him hell for me, will you dear?” I said before slithering in, the very air around me frozen in place as my ice affinity took over for my gray.

“Duh...and keep it.” She said, flicking a finger at me...she returned the grey I gave her. “Not my cup of tea really.” She said, darkness pouring from her like niagra falls. “I’ll see you in a few hours… or minutes. Time is a fickle thing.” She laughed, a gust of energy forcing me into the portal.

The last of my tail came out of the portal as it closed behind me...she’s a strong one. “That she is.” FUCK! I yelped, Cript sitting at the kitchen dinner table. “And yes, I read you mind. Cause fuck it.”

“Great… Thanks Cript.” I said with a roll of my eyes. “And since you are doing that, I really don’t need to ask, But what the hell is a glitch and why did that Crow call me one?”

“I’ve told you about Nexus, right?” He asked, a soda appearing in his hand as he took a sip.

“The basics yes.” I said, intending to create a chair of gray… for it to make a throne…. “Great, even my own power forces royalty onto me.” At least it’s comfy...

“Heh. Well to recap they are a bunch of idiots with code powers despite not being admins that want to erase all creation. They breed the Psychopath hosts, Insanities. The Crow’s, are their...well, ‘cleaners’. They wipe out all life on a high resource world, and then they come in and mine the place til it’s just space rocks.”

“Then what is this with me being one? What did he mean Cript. Vita est mendacium.” I said, confused as to what the hell I said. “And why do I talk in a language I don’t even know!”

“First off, that’s latin, the oldest language in creation. Secondly, a Glitch, is a person who is one of many reflections that nexus will typically breed, ie, me, and are marked with their insignia.” He said, raising his right hand, showing me a small blue dot on his palm. “You, Eclipse, are a reflection not bred into existence by Nexus, you just appeared, and they refer to people like this as a Glitch, anomalies in reality to them. Nexus loves to play god...s. So when the unexpected happens they tend to get pissed.”

“So, I am the very thing Nexus looks at as a complete blight because they didn’t fucking create me?” I said… feeling tearful all of a sudden as tears started to run down my face.

“In short, yeah. Their ego’s are pretty big. Think of a rich snob who looks down on the common folk and that’s them, but way bigger egos and resources.”

“And universe bursting farts.” I said with a childish giggle despite the tears still running down my face.

“Mood swings?” He asked.

“I don’t know, is it bad?” I asked, rubbing my arm before shaking my head. “No, back on topic… So what is going to happen with me? Will my babies be affected because I am a Glitch?”

“Relax, if anything you are the luckiest SOB in creation. Not having any actual ties to Nexus means you’re like anyone else. You never have to know the burden of fighting a fate bred and programmed into you across generations. You and the kids will be fine.”

I suddenly was hugging him tightly, “Thank you...dad... “ I said with a slight hiccup from my earlier crying bought.

“You’re welcome...now get off, you’re my son/daughter, and your chest is not in a platonic place on me.” He said, me backing off fast. “So, now that that’s out of the way, let me tell you the benefits to being a Glitch.” He said with a clever smile. I sat down in what is basically the Naga way of sitting criss cross with a smile, the end of my tail wagging happily to hear what he has to say. “As a glitch, you have no ties to Nexus, but because you share the exact same DNA as their reflections of you on record, you can actually enter their operations undetected, screwing with their inner workings, and easily get lost in the floods of, well, your faces. You can cause them SO much trouble and headaches.”

“So a Sapper then?” I said with a cocked head.

“If that’s a TF2 reference then kinda. Point is that even if they discover there is a traitor they can’t ID you from others cause Nexus used DNA to ID their personal, so you’d be in the system but not even be a member.”

“....Did you know I was a Glitch before now?” I asked innocently.

“Yup. The whole time. Seen lots of you when fighting Nexus. When you came along I noticed, but you didn’t have the mark so I didn’t say anything since I figured it wouldn’t matter.”

“But now it does… Doesn’t it.” I said, my tone and posture returning to normal as I shudder. “Hate hormones…”

“Well, maybe. Do you want it to be?”

I took a breath. The choice is there, presented in front of me. “After the kids are born, and not before we talk with my spouses about it. And I mean you as well Cript.” I said, standing up. “You indeed have been a great father to me, with a few bumps here and there. But I am not doing anything without their say so any more, save for the war, as that is unavoidable.”

“True.”

“Come on dad.” I said offering a hand. “Besides, you should meet your Grandchildren.” I said with a smile.

“The ones inside you or the ones asleep upstairs?”

“Well, I’m talking about all the ones born, But the others can wait till breakfast, if you stay around.” I chuckled. “Come on, lets go.”

“Alright.” He said, following me upstairs.

We walked up the stairs as I opened the door to my room. “Dears, could you come out for a moment? We all need to discuss something.” I said with a caring tone before looking into the room.

They...were...out cold. Blitz’s sudden snore was loud enough to break a window and the other two slept through it. “Welp. Sigh. Cript, we have a room for guests. If you want to stay here you can, But I really want you to be here to discuss it with us.”

“Sure. I can stay for a bit.”

I smiled and showed him to his room. “We’ll talk in the morning dad. See you tomorrow.” I said.

“Okay.”

The next morning we woke up to an already made feast that put what you see in Hogwarts to utter shame. “Enjoy.” Cript said, sitting at a chair and table off in the corner of the dining room.

I chuckled and sat down, helping myself as the kids went crazy, causing me and Blitz to laugh, Luna to look amused, and Fluttershy to just shake her head. “Say thanks to Grandpa Cript kids.”

“Thanks Grandpa.” They all said as Cript just smiled and waved at them. I spent the time to bless the remaining kids with grey before stopping at Sweetie belle, who looked… Numb… a look I know sadly all too well. I noticed Tiara was with her and I smiled. That's better, someone her age helping her through the loss.

I noticed Cript was just drinking what I think was coffee. He was just observing. I sighed. Of course. I slithered on past Sweetie and gave her shoulder a squeeze as I nodded to her. I bent down so only she, and possibly Tiara could hear. “Don’t worry about showing the hurt… Bottling up those kinds of pain never help… I should know.”

“She cried til she fell asleep last night, she didn’t sleep well or much.” Tiara said.

“Hey… If you need the day off I can talk to Cheerilee, she will understand. Sweetie, Please talk to me.” I said, sitting down on the floor next to her. She nodded. Guess she’s not quite ready to talk. “Here, I’ll go to the school with you and talk to Cheerilee. Do you want to stay here today?” I asked, trying to be as caring as possible without smothering her.

She nodded. “Okay. Now eat what you can. Later on today I’ll treat you to some Sea Salt Ice Cream, alright?” I said, slowly standing up before turning to Tiara. “Please stick by her Tiara, she needs someone like you to help.”

“Kay.” She said, wrapping a hoof around the mourning filly.

I nodded before moving on. When I finished I brought out the infants for their breakfast. “Sigh… That pressure release is really calming.”

After taking Sweetie Belle to the school and telling Cheerilee about the whole thing, she gave Sweetie Belle a two week leave, but also gave her the two weeks work of make up work to do at her own pace. We came home, Tiara getting just three days so she can be with Sweetie Belle in her time or need. It was at this moment I was wondering...where are her parents?

I need to get this cleared up before going to the other room to talk about the possible mission I’ll have. I slithered over to sweetie belle and cleared my throat. “Sweetie, I love having you here, and I am not kicking you out, but I need to ask, where Are your parents? Are they on their way here from a trip?”

“...I dunno. Last I knew they were on a trip to Vanhoover, but that was three years back. Rarity always said not to worry but...I don’t know where they are now.”

I held her close. “You are welcome to stay as long as you want, Okay? You and Scoots already act like sisters, it won't be that strange having you stay here, a member of the family or no.”

“Thanks Eclipse… So, what do I do now?”

“Homework be damned.” Tiara said, surprising me a little. “About now is when the early airings of some Anime plays.”

“Oh, I rarely get to see them.” Sweetie said. “Are they good?”

“Yeah, been watching this one called One Piece. It’s kinda random but really cool.”

“Neat.” Sweetie said, the two of them heading to the living room and tuning the TV on...huh, One Piece is on… wow it’s been forever since I saw that.

I smiled before making my way to the kitchen where the hubbies and Cript were. “Sorry, wanted to sort some things out before we talk.”

“It’s okay.” Scotch said. “So, you want to talk about something?”

“Yes. Dad, care to start us off?” I asked, gesturing to him.

“Eclipsa here has a unique talent that can deal some heavy damage to some very bad people.” He summarized. “With your go on the matter she’s willing to do it, after her kids are born that is.” He said, now eating a pudding cup.

“Yes… Though what I am going to do will be dangerous if I make a slip up. A chance of not coming back.” I said before looking up at them. “But I told Cript i refuse to make a decision without your approval, not anymore.”

They all looked over at one another. “Well, I’d agree so long as it’s no more than a week.” Scotch said.

“And we have some means of knowing he is alright.” Star added.

“And kicking ass.” Bitz added.

“I can do that easy.” Cript said.

“Alright. Thank you girls.” I said with a smile, running over and hugging them, starting to cry as hormones took the wheel.

“Now that that’s out of the way, mind if we go for a walk Eclipsa?” Cript asked, standing up.

I sniffed and nodded, wiping my eyes as I stood up and straightened my dress. “Let's go.” With a few more touch ups, wow, as a guy this is a lot quicker but as a mare I kept finding details I wanted corrected til I felt good enough. After that we left. “Where are we going?”

“Well, I overheard Sweetie Belle say she didn’t know where her parents are, and I am interested. So, I figured a little snooping was in order.”

I nodded, hormones being dragged away kicking and screaming from the wheel as determination fixed it’s captain’s hat. “Should we start in Vanhoover?”

“Nope.” He said, heading over to a corner. I followed and Woah teleport. Suddenly we were in front of a two story, rather small house. Grass uncut for possible weeks, maybe months, mailed piled so high and partly decayed from rain or other. “Their house.” Cript said, squatting down to look at the old mail pile.

“The place looks like it hasn’t been lived in, but looks can be deceiving.” I said out loud

Nodding, Cript picked on a still decent shape looking letter. “Huh, this letter is dated a month ago. Guess that’s when the mail stopped coming.” Cript said, standing back up. “Welp, let’s check inside.” He said, grabbing the door knob and...broke it off, opening the door.

I followed in, Pistol drawn and checking my corners out of instinct.

“Dude, you won’t need that.” Cript said, walking around casually. He rubbed a finger across the wood floor. “Woah, dust here hasn’t been moved in well over a month… this is years worth.”

“So unless there is a secret in the house, no one has even stepped foot in to see if they are alright…”

“Well there’s no notices on the door so they might have called ahead and got their water and power shut off, and since there’s no notice from any bank, they must own the place. Now then, if I were going on vacation for that long, what is something I would…” He then began walking upstairs, myself following. We found the parents room. Bed made, photos hung, covered in dust. Daw, baby Sweetie Belle… GAH! Too Cute! Too Cute! “Bingo.” Cript said, finding a pamphlet for a Vanhoover casino. “Looks like they wanted the Las Pegasus Experience at a cheaper price.” He said aloud, opening it.

“Yeah, but what was the hidden fees…” I muttered to myself.

“Hm, seems a page was torn off.” He said, showing me the tear. “Whatever it was, it must have been more interesting than the rest of this place. I mean damn, indoor water park ,indoor zoo, indoor mountain climbing? How does that work...nah, not gonna think about it.” He said, looking over the rest. “Hmm… now onto the next location.”

“Lets go. I want to find her parents…. Dead or alive”

“Not just yet.” He said and woah another one...shit his teleports are like being in one of those rides that spin you really fast. Wait, this is Rarity’s...Rarity’s home. “If they were leaving for that long what parent wouldn’t sent a photo or letters? Phones weren’t a thing here til the Daybreak people showed up.”

I nodded, hesitating to enter. I haven't even entered Rarity’s room to collect my jacket. I don’t want to spoil her good. Cript opened the door. The lights turning on. Motion sensor, neat. We headed upstairs, Rarity’s room/office should have what we are looking for. It was here...I saw my jacket. It was half finished...she didn’t...she didn’t get to finish it… I looked down, unable to look at the old friend, the Oricalcium inclined fabric shining slightly at my presence as I continued to look around.

“Here we are.” Cript said, pulling out a large stack of tied together letters. “Let’s see, no, no, no, here. This is the last letter sent. It’s from the Casino?”

“As much as I hate it, lets take a look.” I said, thankful for an excuse not to look at the jacket.

Dear next of Kin,
We here at the Casino Vanhoover Hoofie regret to inform you that your family members that are staying in our care have been missing for three weeks. We know not their whereabouts or possible locations. Their luggage has been packed and will be shipped to your address as it was labeled as an emergency contact residents address in their hotel forms. We also request you pay their food and services tab listed below.
Food: 108 Bits
Room Service Calls: 50 bits
Casino Room Phone use fee: 10 bits
Travel fees: 250 Bits

“Well, looks like they were having fun before vanishing. What did they do for a living to afford tabs like this on vacation?” Cript asked.

“Whatever it was, seems like the called only once, maybe twice and not for that long judging by that price, But that travel fee is unusually high for just to and from the casino.” I commented.

“Might have taken some tours more than once.” Cript figured. “Now, to Vanhoover.” He said, clapping and we were… HOLY SHIT! This casino has strippers dancing in display cases! “Oh, well that’s unexpected.”

“Yeah, The one time I met her parents they didn’t… seem like the sort to go to this kind of Casino. Looked rather down to earth kind of people actually.” I said, feeling… was that pity for the strippers? Uhg.... Never going to look at them the same, am I? “Well, lets look around then.”

We entered and walked over to the front desk. “Hello and welcome to the Casino Vanhoover Hoofie, how may I help you?” The front desk mare asked...dressed in a sexy bunny waitress outfit…

“Yes we came in response to a letter.” Cript said, showing her the letter.

“Hmm.” She said, reading it over. “Oh yes, those two. Such a shame. Disappeared completely from the place. Made the owner so worried for the customers he put up cameras.”

“Is there room left alone, well, save for their luggage?” I asked

“The room was locked off for an investigation and since the owner is paranoide we haven’t rented it since. You are free to look around as the case was closed last week since they were never found.”

“Thank you… Also.” I went into my assistant and pulled out the owed amount of bits. So thankful for exchange rates of Rem to Bits. “I’m not sure if you were paid back from the costs, but the last living last of kin is still in school, as the eldest has passed. This should pay off the dept.”

“Oh, why thank you.” She said, taking the money. “And please, Enjoy your stay at the Casino Vanhoover Hoovie, the only casino and brothel combo in Equestria.” THAT explains it. Now I don’t pity the girls. What, my mom was one. I know that it isn’t easy getting into a brothel, plus they pay well.

“Well, let get a move on, shall we?” I asked, now much more at home here.

We headed to the room the receptionist mare gave us. Once in and flipping on the lights we saw that there was a cleaned up room, nice and tidy, and the suitcases, five in total packed and ready to go as the letter said...wait, they weren’t mailed? Shrugging, Cript began opening them. “Has to be something here.” He muttered.

“But odd that they were not mailed… especially with the owner being paranoid as hell… makes me wonder what has him so afraid in a city where people disappear all the time.” I said, keeping watch.

“Who knows.” Cript said, pulling out a torn piece of…” Well, here’s the rest of that flier. It’s an advertisement for a married couples sex therapy course. ‘Enjoy three months of non stop snuggling, sexual education and fetishes to spice of the bedroom’.” He read off. “Well, that explains why this place, but where did they end up going?”

“Well… it is possible they were tricked.” I said. “It’s easy to do so. My mother was a working girl, so I have a bit more knowledge than I honestly should. But it is possible their educator was really the Casino’s erm… “Recruiter” for trafficking. And the boss could be paranoid because they didn’t realise they got their hands on the parents of one of the elements of harmony.”

“Hmm… Well, one way to find out.” Cript said. We headed back to the receptionist mare in the lobby. “Hello again, um, can you tell us who was the instructor for this class two years ago?”

The mare looked at the pamphlet. “Oh yes. It was Princess Cadence herself! She was on tour for a while to help couples rekindle that spark. She did have an associate here who worked at the Casino, Pitter Patter, the Daycare mare. As you can imagine there’s a lot of pregnancies in our line of work, so boss made a Daycare for us.”

“Oh I know. My first mother was a working girl, so I know the ins and outs. Heh, pun unintended.” I chuckled. “But would the owner be free to talk to?” I asked. I noted down that it was Cadance. She I don’t think would be the cause of their disappearance, but I’ll have to ask her myself later.

“I’ll call for her, but if you wish to talk with Pitter Patter then please do, she kept the Princess's old couples log book of their progress.”

“Thank you.” Cript said.

The daycare was amazing. Wish the ones I was in were a quarter this nice. The mare, Pitter Patter, was a small Pegasus mare, light blue mane and a dark orange coat. Her cutie mark was a pacifier. “Oh, hello. Is there anything you need?” She asked.

“Oh yes. You see, we are looking into the disappearance two years ago. We were wondering if we could look at the records?” I asked as kindly as possible.

“Two years ago...Oh yes, Princess Cadence kept a log book of all her participants. She took interest in Hondo Flanks and Cookie Crumbles especially. Something about those two having a rather bland sex life.”

“Heh, well, that is not my place to judge.” I chuckled. “I just need the logs for the couple you mentioned. With them missing… I don’t want them to not only miss their daughter’s funeral but to leave the youngest one to go into the system.”

“Ah, understandable.” She said. “I keep all those old records in the Casino basement. Here.” She said, opening her desk and handing me a key. “This should let you into the basement. Just head for the door labels records and it will be in a box filled with other notebooks with cutie marks on them. Hondo Flanks if I remember was three footballs and Cookie Crumble’s was… Yeah, three cookies.”

“Thank you. Wish us luck.” I said with a small smile before handing the key to Cript. ‘I don’t trust this place. My mother always taught me to not trust any working girl, not even her if they seem to care or be cooperative.’ I spoke in my head, knowing Cript would hear. ‘Add that it is a casino and it doesn’t help that it has a legal front.’

“Well we’ll see then.” Cript said. Heading to the basement and finding the room, we opened boxes til we found the notebooks, and the one with Hondo and Crumbles cutie marks. “Here we go. Let’s see. Woah!” He said after opening the first page.

“What is it? I said, looking around for anything else out of place, in consistency and what have you.

“For apparently having a bland sex life Hondo had quite the member on him.” He showed me- DEAD GOD THAT’S A LEG NOT A PENIS! “So she took photos along with detailed notes? Shit this can almost be a porno comic.”

“.... If i was a guy I would have felt my masculinity plummet but since I am a female all I can say is owch for that…. That monster.”

“Well let’s see...crap. Alright looks like these two quickly became adept at Cadences different assignments. Sex in hot tubs, sex in showers, sex in public...shit these two became quite sex addicted fast. I mean crap, anal, oral, gender swapping, same sex, different partners, orgies, holy shit… And that’s also a fetish here. Not gonna ask… Ah, last entry.”

These two are doing so well, they have more than rekindled their spark for one another and now can keep each other more than satisfied in the bedroom. They said they have a special night coming up that will end in something that would impress me. Heh, now I’m interested. Apparently Cookie and Hondo are gonna fly to Manhattan via pegasus chariot and screw the whole way there. Heh, hope those ponies flying them don’t mind. A mile high membership for non winged creatures is hard to get, and total gloat worthy.

“So a sex flight to Manehattan, likely just a short one but they never came back from there. Damn, that can’t be good.”

“No it can’t. There is also the mystery of the owner being nervous and the luggage never being shipped.” I said, arms crossed as my fingers drumbed on my arms.

“Well let’s talk to him, this would explain the high travel tab on their bill.” Cript said. We went back to the lobby and met with a grey stallion, Pegasus, light yellow mane in a business suit.

“Ah, yu t-t-two are the ones looking into my missing customers, i-i-is that right?” He asked… Was that a stutter or is he that nervous?

Don’t like this…. “Yes, we are. I assume you are the owner of the establishment?” I said, my smile hiding my emotions so well it would make world champion poker players blush.

“Y-yes. It was inherited to me when my father passed. Been keeping it running as best as I can. So, a-any questions?”

“Yes actually.” I said, keeping the smile and not letting my eyes give me away. “My own first one is why haven't the luggage been shipped yet? We saw the letter stating it was going to be.”

“O-Oh, yes that. Well we sent that letter when the case was open. T-the police said that it was evidence at the time and when the c-c-case was closed they told me to hang onto it in case any new clues were found.”

“Alright.” Cript said. “When did you first notice they never came back?”

“O-oh. Well their transportation that night, Gull Flight arrived hours passed their return time, saying they left to tour and never returned. There’s a train that goes from Manehatten to here and we expected given those two’s… activities around the place they were just being kinky and would return within a day or so. Once three days passed we filed a missing ponies report.”

“Alright. Where is Gull Flight? I just want to talk to him or her before we leave.” I said sweetly.

“Oh, well around now the roof, he normally gives air flight tours of the city as part of the entertainments. But he took that shift that year since it payed triple the normal since, well, you can imagine. They weren’t the only couple to join the mile high club that night.”

“Yes well, Unless my partner in crime here has any more question, I just have one more.” I said with my smile before it dropped and my eyes hardened. “Why are you afraid? Where did your little stutter go?”

“T-t-t-th-” Just then another Pegasus mare, same coat as his but darker yellow mane cut in.

“My client here is a very busy pony miss, unless you have a permit or warrent for further questioning we are done here.” She spoke in a rather refined voice that bleed experience. She then pushed him off to the elevators where they left.

“Yeah, not suspicious at all.” Cript sighed..

“Played the game for a while that one. If it wasn’t the mannerism or the tone, it was the eyes.” I said before smiling. “Good to know I put on a better act then the pros.”

“Well, let’s go talk with Gull, and let’s be fast.” Cript said, snapping his fingers as we were on the roof already. There were a few Pegasus ponies returning ald taking off. “Now, which is Gull?”

“Lets ask.” I said, slithering quickly over to the nearest Pegasus worker. “Excuse me, do you happen to know where Gull Wing is? We need to talk to him about something important.”

“Oh him, yeah he’s the Orange coat one landing just now. Best hurry up before another couple takes his carriage for a fly.” They said.

Cript and I headed over, the Orange Pegasus taking a drink of water. “Huh? Oh, you two want a tour?” He asked.

“No, but we do need to talk to you about something. Do you remember your flight of ponies that went missing?” I asked, my mask back on to hide my emotions.

“Heh, not that much actually.” He said, taking another drink of water. “Landed at the Manehatten post, those two, well, finished...for like the eight time… then ran off like school foals to have a little midnight tour. It’s just a park, not much to see. At some point I fell asleep, woke up hours behind schedule and they were nowhere. Flew around looking for them for another hour but all I found was that stallions camera. Gave it over to the boss when I got back.”

And the pieces fall into place. They took a picture of something they were never meant to see. He is hiding evidence, no doubt because of the Player, as I am calling her until I know her name, Strong armed him. He is just a kid trying to run a business he has little experience in handling, add his lack of skills in the game and it wouldn’t be hard to do just that. “Thank you. About how long would you guess you were asleep?”

“Well it was eight when we arrived, fell asleep half an hour later since I already flew seven other couples across and woke up at midnight. They were my last flight and we were supposed to be back by ten.”

Between eight and ten they disappeared, with no one realizing until two hours later. “Thanks. Here.” I said, handing him a small pouch of 30 bits. “Sorry for bothering you.”

“Sweet, paycheck’s good but tips are better. No taxes taken out.” He chuckled.

Cript teleported us to the Manehattan port. It was a fair sized landing area with a really nice park. “Now what are we going to look for. It was two years ago so anything in the park would be gone or ruined by now.”

“Yeah, but if they were taken any Earth pony worth a member like what Hondo has would put up one hell of a fight. Look for bark that doesn't match its surrounding bark, gates with locks that might be near, anything.”

I close my eyes before expanding my senses in a 360 expanding circle around me before opening my eyes. Let me tell you, looking everywhere at the same time is disorienting the first time, but with it ai started to look for signs.

I found some uneven earth, uneven compared to the rest, a single bark tree scrapped with… is that...fur? “Find anything?” Cript asked.

Closing up my senses back to normal I answered. “Yes, over here, Some fur and scraped bark.”

I lead Cript over to it. I found the tree and we pulled out the fur. A pinkish color...Cookies. “Huh, let me see here.” Cript said, feeling along the dirt, finding the abnormal dirt changes. “Given the fur this low on the tree’s bark and the placement of these hoof imrents in the ground… They were screwing here.” Cripg sighed. “No fight, hmm… Hey Eclipsa.” He said.

“Yeah?” I asked, trying to not sound disappointed.

“You see that?” I looked in his direction. I saw the fence of this park, but there was a door built into it, thin, hard to notice. We got closer. It was open, and a walkway went down into the unfenced trees below. “This lock was broken, heh, guess Hondo got’s some muscle after all.”

“Not that shocking, based off his cutie mark he was a good hoofball player if I’m right.” I said, honestly impressed by the damage done by a normal, average pony.

We walked down and came across a stream of water in a small clearing. There was steam coming off it. “Natural spring?” Cript wondered, putting a finger in the water. “Woah. Okay, not water.”

“What is it.” I said, pering at it

“It’s practically acid. No wonder it was fenced off. At this heat you wouldn’t noticed you skin melting right away…” Cript reached his hand into it, lots of steam coming off it as he pulled up… a pony skull. “Oh no…”

“Shit… This is an execution location.” I said.

“I don’t think so…” Cript said, looking the skull over. “This is fairly new, the acid in this thing is strong enough that bones not taken out over time would melt also. Plus, just looking at the skull, the age is wrong. A mare yes, but an unlikely missing mother. This mare must be no more than sixteen. And if you didn’t notice there’s bits of clothes all over the place. Mainly bows, a saddle bag. Something tells me this was a mare who thought she found her own private spa but ended up taking a skin melting bath.”

I got over to the saddle bag to see if there was a way to identify her. I pulled out a wallet...and a student ID. Krissy Mayor. Age sixteen, Manehattan school of beauty and refreshment. “Alright, she was just a collage student.”

“In the photos in...Cadences notebook on them, it showed Cookie wearing these yellow earrings the whole time, see them anywhere?”

I continued to look around, trying to find the specific jewelry. I didn’t find anything. Not even in the acid, which was a relief. “Nope, not here. She wasn’t dumped into the acid at all.”

“Then they had to have kept walking… This river is flowing, let’s follow… no, let’s find out where it’s starting.” He said. Hiking through the thick forest with this tail. After half an hour we came across the source. A pipe, pouring out ths acid into the water. It was connected to some large industrial building.

“Found the people dumping acid and ruining the environment, not including several health code violations.” I joked.

“And causing several deaths.” Cript muttered. Scaling this wall was easy. This place was pretty out in the middle of nowhere. Entering, we saw boxes and opened them… “Batteries.” Cript said, lifting a pack of double A’s.

“Crack them open.” I said, grabbing one and breaking it in half.

Cript did the same. Just normal battery acid. “That explains it actually.” He said. “Battery acid when hot can kill, even melt you down. That pipe is spitting out the acid into the water, and since it does seem to have originally been a natural hot spring, keeps the acid hot enough to kill you when you take a swim. Surprised the flora and fauna are so well given their water is deadly.”

“Well, first things first we need to shut off the acid pipe, then find the why and where those two are.” I said, my hands ready to summon any one of my weapons. After meeting the Player, I’m on edge in a place like this.

“Well, let’s check the place out.” Cript said. We sneaked into the factory floor. It seemed to be fully automated.

Still on edge though. “Alright, any clue what to look for next?”

“Paperwork, or rather, evidence. If they found this out, then got caught…”

“Then they would have covered it to the public while keeping originals?” I guessed.

“Meaning Cookie and Hondo might either be in a house arrest, or in a jail under different names run by crooked cops.”

“Well, judging from the fact the camera is being held by the casino boss, makes sense.” I said before finding an office. “Alright, found a office.”

“Yeah, but he doesn’t seem the time to willingly go along with a coverup, that other pegasus mare though… she seems very out of place in there, doesn't she?”

“Yeah. She has been around the block and Played the game. We of all people should know how those people act when on business and people are looking into it.” I said, looking around for anything incriminating.

The office didn’t have much in it, a desk, two filing cabinets, some books. “Hmm… Now here’s something interesting.”

“What did you find?” I ask, going over to him.

“It’s tax forms. According to this about sixteen hundred thousand bits were donated to the local prison a year and a half ago by this company. Wonder why.” She asked, smiling.

“Maybe a price to keep someone in?” I guessed. “It fits the time table.”

“And pretend they aren’t even there.” Cript said, smiling as he placed the papers down. “Go confront that mare and the stallion incharge of the casino. I’ll be back.” He said, snapping his fingers and I’m in a pretty nice office. The owner was there, didn’t notice me appear, and was looking out the window, head against the glass… he looked miserable.

“Tired of being behind in the underworld games?” I asked after taking a seat in his chair for intimidation purposes.

“Gah!” He said, wings puffing to still and falling over. “O-o-oh...you… When did you get here?”

“That really what you are worried about, rather than what I know? You really are new in the game.” I said with a chuckle, summoning a bottle of whiskey for him and a smoothie for me. “Care for a drink?”

He looked at me...then sighed. “So, you know about the battery factory?” He asked, taking a seat in his chair.

I nodded, my smile fading. “Yup. And I know that at least one death is responsible for it. A Collage student took a dip inside recently, plus, no company donates sixteen thousand bits to a prison for no reason. Added the fact you have the camera that must have evidence and…..”

He took a deep breath, taking a few gulps of the whiskey before speaking. “Whether you believe me or not is irrelevant. I’ll be imprisoned for accomplishing it. You see, the mare that dragged me away from your question is my sister, Check Mate. Our dad left me this Casino and Brothel, and he left her the battery factory. She never liked it. Said it never made enough money, even after she invested thousands so she can automate the whole place, removing ponies on the payroll entirely and cutting corners to make the product descent in quality but, well, you know. She invested in a lot of magic to keep that forrect behind the place alive. I didn’t know how bad it was till Gull gave me that camera. On top of a lot of...rather saucy images, it held incriminating evidence of her factory, it’s pollution, safety hazards, and of course, they got a picture of her in the frame. I confronted her about it, but she was always so cruel. A lot of mares and wives of stallions who worked at that factory before she fired them all came to me for employment. I uphold dad’s values, and made it so there was work for them. Married mare’s here work mainly as just cooks, room service or other non sexual jobs. She threatened to blackmail me for a false tax fraud. This place is barely running, despite being two normally successful businesses, upholding morality and values is often pricy, and our location is rather out there, so we don’t get Los Pegasus’s numbers. The Heartless invasion last year thankfully missed us completely. A crown lawsuit would ruin this place and over a thousand ponies would lose their jobs.”

I sighed and took a drink of my smoothie. “Trust me, the last thing I want is for you to go down. You hold high morals and help those when they need it. And I can tell you hate being forced into this situation. All I need of you is one thing, and I can make sure you are not punished for your sister’s actions.” I said, turning to him. “Cooperation. I am friends with the ruling agent in Equestria, Married to Ex-Princess Luna, Ex- Student of princess Celestia, Sister in law to Princess Cadance, Sister to Prince Shining Armor, and Twin to Princess Twilight. I understandably hold some political power and if you work with me I can make sure this family you built in this Casino will remain so.” I said, offering a hand.

“That, that could be amazing!” He said…

The window broke, a massive wave of heat and wind blew in. An explosion… Cript, what did you do?

I looked at the Stallion. “I need you to run. Get as many Civilians and Employs to safety. I’ll see what that was. Do you understand?”

“No need.” Cript said, appearing next to me, snapping his fingers as the window fixed itself as it time went backwards. “Just taking out that Battery factory.”

…………… “A little warning would have been nice.” I said, miffed but not disappointed.

“Then we wouldn’t get this reaction out of her.” He said.

At that, Check Mate ran in, looking out the window. “NOOO! Damn it! It’s gonna take thousands of bits to build! And keeping the damn construction workers quiet will cost me. SHIT!” She only cares about the money… I see what he did.

“Oh mad that your business following the path of the old Flim Flam brothers is gone? Oh… that's too bad.” I said, full of sass and spunk… I like this moodswing!

“You...You BITCH! You did this! I’ll make sure you are so-”

Bang.

And...she’s dead. “Well that was annoying.” Cript said, holding the still smoking gun.

“Killjoy… I wanted to destroy her more.” I whined, honestly upset that I didn’t get to watch her as she realizes that everything she build up be destroyed around her before it ended.

“S...sister…” The stallion said...right, still his family…

“Wait for it.” Cript said, the Check Mates body twitching as her headshot healed before our eyes.

“Gah!” She coughed, taking in breath again. “W-what the…?”

“Seven.” Cript said, grabbing the mare by the mane and lifting her up. “Seven ponies died swimming in that acid filled spring of yours. So, you have seven lives. One for each pony killed. I found Cookie and Hondo in that prison you donated those bits too, to keep them locked up for knowing too much. You’re lucky they are alive, otherwise it would be nine times you have to die.”

“That’s too generous of you Cript.” I said but shrugged. “But hey, You’re the admin. I’m just a god.” I said, just to watch their reactions. Nothing to rille Cript up.

“G-god?!” Check Mate said.

“Sir, if you wish to leave, now is the perfect time. Your sister here needs to pay for her actions, normally I’d let your worlds courts sort this out, but she personally pissed me off, so it’s a personal matter now.”

Hesitantly, he gulped, backing away until he left the room. “Yup, A bonafide god. And want to hear the worst part? Yeah, you may have pissed me off, while I’m pregnant no less.’ I slithered over to whisper in her ear. “But you pissed of someone who makes me? Look like less than dirt between his nails.”

Her eyes widened, moving to see Cript behind her. “Now then, where were we?” He asked, grabbing his other hand around her neck. “Right, six left.”

I ended up having to leave too...that...that just went so dark so fast...and normally I get sick pleasure from that sort of stuff. That should tell you something. I shuddered at the one I witnessed last. Yup, gonna have a harder time sleeping at night. Just what I needed. “Now, sorry about all that.”” I said to the brother of the mare currently going through stuff that would make hell seem like fairy land

“Heh...I always wished she’d get her comeuppance...but actually seeing it happen...well, makes me regret wishing it.” He said.

I sighed. “I understand. After all, she is family… My wish is he leaves her with one life, as mentally scared as she will be, so she can learn to appreciate the smaller things… And to not tally up another pointless death.” I turned over to him. “I meant what I said earlier, I’ll help you come out of this with no problems, maybe even better off than you were.”

“I dunno.”

I sighed. “I’ll come out. I’m not a good person. I just do good things, even if the ways I do it are morally wrong. But you sir, you are a good pony, you were just being manipulated by someone who was more morally bankrupt than me and the people I fight almost weekly. Manipulating your own family…” I had to resist the urge to spit in disgust. “Even my own birth family of Criminals never did that to family. So no, I don’t want you or those who work for you to suffer, and if you don’t feel you deserve it? Think of all the ponies who look up to you, who you supply with a paycheck and a second family. You don’t want them to suffer because of self pity.”

“I know. A lot of ponies here look up to me, think me a great guy… honestly, I just follow along in my dad’s old hoofprints in the sand. He made the place a brothel, making a whole new kind of place that made money morally and legally.”

“And how is following in a great pony’s hoofprints not mean you are morally right?” I asked with a small smile. “You are just a good pony stuck between a seemingly blinding beacon, and a corrupt, black abyss. And I thing staring too long into the light made you advert your gaze. And I don’t blame you, Light is just as evil as Dark. But I believe you should always follow your heart, and you will find greatness. It’s how I became a god.”

“Heh, well godhood isn’t in my cards. Honestly I just want to get more customers in this place. We need more means for them to get here. Was hoping to have a train station right up front, connecting us between Manehatten Central and other cities, even if they stay for a day, hey, that's bits for the place and bits for the workers.”

“I believe I can talk with a few ponies and see what I can do. Hell, I could even put of an ad to allow beings from other worlds to come visit, if you wish.”

“Heh, that sounds impressive.”

“Yup, as long as your workers don’t mind treating beings from across the stars.” I said with a chuckle. “My mother would have killed for that, just for the experience. Wonder how she is doing with the news of my pregnancy… Anywho, I am willing to help.” I said, placing a hand on his shoulder.

“Thanks.” He said, the door to his office finally opening after dead silence. He came out...carrying a foal.

“And for life number seven, a reset.” Cript said, handing the foal to the stallion.

“Oh, that’s actually the best possible punishment he could give.” I told him.

The stallion took the foal, looking her over, smiling. “Heh...I remember when she first came home, just like this…” He said, lifting the foal….to me. “She was raised right, but still became so cruel and evil...maybe you can raise her to be better, something she either didn’t pick up on, or ignored with my family.”

“You sure you want to trust your heh, baby sister with me?” I asked, gently taking the foal.

“Yes. You’re good, and unique. I’m sure with you, she can be better.”

“Alright… If you ever want to see her, you can come by my home in Ponyville. Oh and any second now, don’t be surprised.” I said, as I knew what happens when my family adopts anyone. Her hind legs quickly became replaced by a blue and white scale colored tail, and her mane changed to...pink… Oh right, I’m the female now so...I am the mom but Scotch/Shy is the dad… huh. “Anyone I adopt becomes Genetically mine and my husbands, though, as you can see.” I said, holding her up. “She still has her eyes. She is still your sister.”

“I don’t doubt that. One can replace the entirety of the body, but never the soul.” He said. “So...what next?”

“That depends.” Cript said.

“It’s on you.” I said, waiting to feed Check until we are done here.

“Well, I need the business. But, I dunno. I guess I just worry.”

“Worry about what?” I asked caringly.

“The unknown I guess. Not knowing what’s ahead is scary.”

“Always is, but I like to think not knowing is a blessing, because then you don’t worry about the future, and enjoy the time you have.”

“Yeah. Well, I accept. THe money would help this place, heh, maybe we could finally expand.”

I smiled and sent out the ad Via assistant to all reflections and throughout my universe. “Done, now you need but wait.” I said, smiling.

I went home, tired. I saw Zeke’s Tiara was asleep on the couch. Before I got anywhere though something grabbed me by my tail, and I was in a large hug! Wait… another Naga pony? “Awh! So you are the new sibling! Heard you were a guy!”

I groaned before looking at my ‘attacker’ “I was, then I got knocked up. Besides, I don’t have a gender anymore.”

“Ah, neither do most of us, but we don’t mind.” The sibling was female, a sister huh? Her coat on her anthro pony half was a pinkish purple, mane a deep yellow and her scales were a eye catching gold and green colors. OH MY GOD HER TAIL IS TWICE THE LENGTH OF MINE!!!

“Wow, long tail.” I said casually, as if it didn’t bother me. “My name is Eclipse, yours?”

“Rare Berry. Hope you don’t mine but I put those sexy men of yours into my storage stomach, so we can talk one on one on why I am here. Oh, and the kids in my womb, save for that tart on the couch, heh, I know who not to mess with when I see them.”

“Huh? Was is so important than none of my family can hear?” I asked. “I prefer to let my family know what is what.”

“Well first off I wanted to tell you that you aren’t the only god in the family, just a heads up.”

“Not that surprising, as really anyone can become one with enough work.” I shrugged. “But I hardly think that warrants a ton of privacy.”

“Second is that pops picked me to both deliver some news, and to be your teacher for learning how godly powers work. I, since coming from the same world as your mama does, can teach you heritage and traditions. Two birds in one open mouth, a little saying back home.”

I chuckled. “So, god and nagga training wrapped up in one? As long as I have time to teach at the school, I don’t see the problem.” I said with a smile. “Besides, this way I get to know a sibling other than Ben.”

“Oh, and that’s the other news. I’m sure Dad told you about how him and the moms are gonna be gone for a while, right?”

“Yeah he told me. I’ve accepted it, but that doesn’t mean I need to be happy about it.” I said, thinking of my human mother.

“Well not long after that got out Dad said all of us old enough have to find our place in creation, that Home will also vanish when the time comes. So I’m actually moving here, some others might arrive too. The ones too little to care for themselves are gonna be raised by us, but only after Dad and the moms are gone. Secondly, all of us will get special markings on us, marking we are directly children of Cript and another that labels who our mom is, in your case, you might get three.”

“Or four due to Josh.” I said with a chuckle. I put on my smile, even if inside this talk was bittersweet. “At least I’ll finally get a few marks of my own rather than just Oblivion and Oathkeeper… no offence guys.” I said, looking up into my head to address they keyblades.

“These marks will give us some special extra aid, but what that is we aren’t sure. Also Dad did say that with special carved Statues of our moms, we can talk to them, but anyone of our kids or other people can’t hear them, but they can get a blessing for an offering, kinda like how Skyrims Arda work.”

“Wow, that’s useful,even if it sucks that some of my kids wont meet their grandmothers.”

“That’s where Churches come into play, yeah, that. When Dad reworks the whole of Creation Churches that appear will allow any of us with a mark to act kinda like a medium for the moms, or Dad, though I won’t be doing it but a lot did agree when they start appearing.”

“Wow, dad is prepared.” I chuckled. “Stars has my life gone tits up, and thats been in barely three years.” I sighed before taking a seat, my posture and eyes betraying my smile and showing my true emotions. “I just wish I had time, but time is the one thing no one has in spades, not even admins.”

“Yeah, can’t argue there.”

“Yeah.” I said before going back over to her and hugging Rare. “But I guess thats what us siblings are for, am I right, sister?”

“Heck yeah!”

I smiled “Well, want to meet the family’s newest member?” I said, presenting Check Mate.

“Dawh, what a dear. Oh, this is a good opportunity to tell you about some of the lesser known things we can do but not everypony can do, you ready to hear?”

“Sure!” I said, swallowing Check

“Okay then, so first off, how much of our culture do you know? Dad told me you were taken to our home realm but I want to know how much you know.”

“The basics really. Swallowing, stomage rules, a bit of the history, that stuff.”

“Okay then. Well as you already can guess socially not too much is taboo about eating one another. So long as there is consent and such. When dealing with the young, swallowing them as a punishment is often common, but not that effective. Swallowing another to digest while legal is taboo socially, for one it is considered a form of murder, but with the proper spells it can be avoided as that, but as you can imagine there are a wide variety of factors involved.

“First off consuming another for digestion means you take them as is, this means you also take any illnesses, allergies, things of that nature but also memories, as well as their conscious and soul, they become part of you entirely.”

“Yeah I noticed an ability to change my secondary stomage to something called Devorer.” I said “I’m guessing it’s a good thing I keep that off?”

“No, Devorer is dark magic. This is part of the natural magic we have. Now taking that into account consuming someone with intent to digest keeps them, in a sense, alive. They will exist within you but without their body, they will feel and see the world as you do, and you can speak to one another, while it can also be tuned out it all depends on various things. While you can bring them back to life, for example they can be reborn by either getting pregnant and getting knocked up, their entirety can be reborn as you child, much similar to how this little one went by. For males it’s similar, so long as a female is involved to concive whoever’s spirit and conscious will be reborn.”

“Huh. Still not using it until I’m confidant none of my current children will crawl in there.” I said with a shrug. “So, where do we begin?”

“Oh relax, part of our natural magic is actually rather interesting. With intent to swallow but keep safe or just store away, our stomach is, well, best described as a flesh sack. There is no entry/exit that connects to the throat until we wish to access that stomach, so they can’t climb in there as you can only swallow into one stomach at a time, and when none are in use it’s just sacks that hold what they are intended. No means of escape until you let them out, so you can imagine there is a lot of trust involved in this so forcing them to remain there against their will is highly illegal, cause while they will be sustained by the fluids in yours storage of healing stomach, it’s morally wrong.”

“Makes sense. Holding someone against their will, or forcing their easance into yours is just wrong. Freedom is a gift, one no one should have stolen.” I said with a shrug, showing my wisdom despite my relaxed nature.

“Exactly, now then. I feel I should tell you the basic uses for your stomachs and some other uses. First off your digestion stomach, is actually the smallest. While true it can stretch to the length of your whole tail, it is typically no bigger than your head. It stretches as you eat, and digests food actually fast. A completely full digestion stomach can dissolve all that food in two or three hours, but your body immediately stores is as fats that it releases the nutrients as needed. This means you can actually eat a large meal and depending on your lifestyle only need to eat a meal again from a week to a month.”

“But because until my pregnancy my lifestyle was none stop combat with only maybe a week or two of break, I needed to each every single day?” I guessed.

“Yes, and when pregnant it’s recommended you eat at least two pounds for every child you are bearing a day. Otherwise the infants are born small, and that is both logically and physically bad for them.”

“Alright, so at least eighteen pounds, got it.” I said with a smile. “Three per hubbie.”

“Nice. Now then, first off is a little known fact, you can actually keep smaller ones, mainly foals and small kids in just your mouth, and believe it or not, you jaw doesn’t detach, in fact it will stretch with your cheeks. This is normally done when they need to stay warm. You see, our kind don’t actually generate their own body heat until their teenage years, as part of our version of Puberty.”

“Huh. So this entire time I’ve just been stuffing them in my cheeks?”

“Yes but your mouth gets sore after an hour or two and it’s not often used because of the saliva left behind. It’s more of a last resort thing.”

I nodded.

“Another thing I doubt you knew is this fun little trick.” She said, her tongue sticking out...and going...and going...and going… until it wrapped around an Apple from the fruit bowel and brought it back into her mouth, where it unwrapped around the apple as she took a bit from it, and took the rest out from her teeth. “Our tongues can go as long as our bodies are and are mainly used to reach into our stomachs, to search and pull out things we might have eaten or others who need help. Better than vomiting them back up, less mess.”

“Thats…. That would have been really good to know.” I said with a sigh.

“Yes, and just between us girls, it’s a real turn on for men, if pleasing more than one, none shall go unattended~” She chuckled.

Hehe, oh the evil plans~ I began to grin much like my sister. “Oh now I’m thankful you swallowed them, that’s going to sooo be useful~”

“Heh, wrapped them all up in one go, the Pink haired one was blushing like crazy.” She chuckled.

“Figured Butterscotch would. Always the shy one that are kinky as hell.” I giggled.

“Now then, I bet from the name the Storage stomach sounds kinda boring huh?”

“I guess? Never gave it too much thought really.” I said honestly.

“Well it’s called that because unlike the healing/safety stomach, anyone kept in there isn’t soaked in special healing fluids, in fact, it doesn't give off any juices at all. It’s naturally near frictionless allowing smooth movements for whoever is inside, but it’s also used to keep non living things in, for example, I can swallow this apple in there, and get it back out later. THIS playes into how this stomach’s magic works. It actually can act something akin to a fridge, keeping food in it stored for MONTHS at a time and when it comes to living things, such as loved ones and foals, they can be in there much the same, not needing food, water or air while there. Some even called this little inborn magic of ours a life extender, as terminally ill patients can be in there and live quite longer than normal or expected.”

“I figured out the medical thanks to bringing a wounded mare to the hospital while inside… then a horny nurse is constantly trying to get samples after the first… vore fetish much…”

“Yeah, same issue back home. Despite us being part Equine we are considered the top Predator lifeforms on our birthplace Equestria. Now while we are now the only race capable of the things we do, we are the most well known for it.”

“I bet.” I chuckled “So now I know more about the tongue and stomachs. Anything else?”

“Yes, now this is hard to do but you can actually swallow yourself. As you can imagine it starts at the tip of your tail, then you just swallow. The result is actually not ending at a bulge or popping out of existence, rather we come back out, shedding out old skin and the result is often a longer tail and...other assets~” She motioned towards her chest. “I have done this four times, it’s why I am so much larger than you. Tail wise at least. These babies may be small compared to yours but I was flat chested before my first time self swallowing.”

“Damn… and I feel like somehow Star, Scotch and Blitz are going to talk me into it… After all, I adapt to whatever form I take so well it honestly scares beings.” I giggled, remembering the hubbies reactions as well as.… Rarity’s….

“Now then, a little few questions I have for you. Now I know you have already swallowed others but have you been swallowed?”

I thought about it before realizing the answer. “No, not yet at least. Mother was about to but my Momma Aurora and Josh kept her on track.”

“Ah, so you haven’t experienced that yet then. I can tell you from experience, as your kids and husbands that it’s a warm, safe feeling where everything feels like a pillow and the dangers of the world are no longer looming. You feel so close to your swallower, their heartbeat lullabying you to sleep, the gentle breaths they make, the silence soothing and relaxing, and even their movements while in there just make your flesh environment massage and cradle you. Aside from sex there is no means closer to another you love or care for in any way.”

That explains a few things. “So that’s part of the reason Soiled trusts me so much… I helped her not only escape and sooth the pain, but brought her psychological comfort as well as physical. Also explains how come Tiara was so adamant about being with Scootaloo for the longest time.”

“Yes, those harmed with deep emotional scars are often very reluctant to leave when they find this level of trust with another, this can actually lead to more intimate emotions such as love. It’s a part of our species way of healing, hence why we also have a healing stomach, designed by nature itself to heal the wounded, the elders pain of age, or even a youths fears. While many can and do see it as wrong, sexual or taboo, the simple fact is it creates a form of trust and emotions that can last a lifetime. In fact it can also lead to a unique bond, if the swallower and the ‘prey’ are close and this strong bond of trust is formed you can learn their emotions, thoughts, and past. It’s like...well, I’ve never experienced it, but I hear it’s like knowing everything about the person and not caring about how deep their flaws or pain go, cause to you none of it matters. Love I guess is a close word for it, but not sure it that even fits.”

I stayed quite at that, thinking and listening. I took a deep breath, a small sarine smile on my face as I opened my eyes. “That does sound absolutely beautiful, even if it isn’t 100% needed… must be the part of me that wishes to stay female thinking that.”

“It’s just our race. Many look at us and see either a unique form of evolution, sexy kinks or fetish fuel, but when you dig into it, it goes a lot deeper than any of that.”

“I guess it does. Heh, maybe I was always meant to be a Naga. After I adjusted to moving around… it feels almost as natural if not more so than even being human…. Hmmm…. Still need to see myself as human at some point, what with all my changes, both in gender and appearance.” I said, actually making a note of it in my assistant.

“Now then, there are a few other things you should know. First off is that our teeth do give off venom when we bite, micro doses, harmless to us but to others it can be either a paralysis effect or...laxative.”

“I know of them. Used it and I thought the other venom was an Adrenaline?” I said, getting now conflicting information. “Did Cript make a mistake when he first told me?”

“No, when swallowed by us, we don’t feel anything, but if we bite into out skin and let our own venom seep in, it created the Adrenaline effect, and if extracted, and fermented with some special oils it is quite the aphrodisiac for us and others.”

“A love drug? How potent are we talking about here?” I said, having images of hentias from earth in my head.

“Well it won’t make your crush fall in love with you but it will give your spouse's a four hour erection and you moist enough to fill a gallon bucket to spill over.”

“Ah so wont enhance what isn't already there, and if it is there, cause basically a mini heat.” I summed up.

“Yes, basically. It’s often sold back in our Equestria as a marital aid and to other worlds as, well, prescription marital aid.”

“And I guarantee there is a black market for it to be used for the wrong means.” I sighed before shaking my head.

“Don’t doubt it, with a large enough dose it can make one unable to control the enhanced urges and taken advantage of. It’s a forced willing rape drug of sorts, but in small doses it’s just aid for the bedroom. Now then, since you’ve never been swallowed, care for the experience? I’m gonna move here anyway and I already got a job at the hospital to swallow heavily injured patients and spit them out when stable. They expect mortality rates to plummet.”

“Be careful for a horny nurse there.” I giggled “I personally got a job at the school as a combat instructor for those without keyblades.”

“Oh, if she tries anything I won’t mind. After all, some fall into the area of trust faster than others, and if she does try something then it means she’s more in if for the kink, if she looks tempted than fights it it means she prefers you to me. So, you want the experience? I can stick you with your hubbies and frankly I won’t mind if you do some ‘wrestling’ in there.”

I giggled. “Fine… you peaked my interest sis.” I said with a playful roll of my eyes.

“Well then, time to eat~” She cooed, grabbing my by the arms as she opened wide… Sliding in was...at first a bit worrying but...it felt great, like a full body massage. I felt my stress and knots melt away as more of me went down, and it kinda ticked when she got to my tail area. Finally I entered with my loves, the three of them surprised to see me, but I explained the situation and they seemed more relaxed with it.

Finally I was all the way in and… it feels nice. She was right, the rhythm of her heartbeat was so comforting, her breathing calming, the walls of the storage stomach while not wet were easy to glide on and super squishy, like a silk sleeping bag. The silence and lack of outside noises made it even more enjoyable, and with my three loves here, cuddled around me I felt… I’ve never felt this safe or relaxed in my life. At least, not since I was a kid, blind to the true dangers of the world, and before my mom told me what her job entailed. I truly felt calmed. The war could wait, right now, I have all I need. I snuggled up to my lovers, their fur and wings feeling so nice. I wish that this moment could last an eternity.

Goddess

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After that night of relaxation, we, sadly, we're taken out. I bid my newly met sister goodnight with a promise that the next day we would begin my god training.

Oh boy….

I stretched, feeling relaxed but also tense. Man I can never just be calm. It’s like my body is on permanent war mode. I sighed after I took care of the morning routine and headed out to go meet up with Rare.

Turns out Rare’s place was a nice little one floor apartment, large floor area so her tail fit inside it. I knocked on the door. “Rare, it’s me, Eclipsa.” I said, ignoring some of the stares I was getting… god’s what about me is so sexy to everyone? Surely not everyone is into snake women.

She opened the door. “Hey sis. Ready to train then?”

I smiled and nodded. “I sadly won't be at 100% thanks to my coat never being finished, but I’m ready.”

“Well come on in then and we’ll get started.” She said, moving aside. I entered and… massive… Did I walk into Doctor Who’s Tardis again cause...this is a lot bigger inside. And fancy.

“What is it with our family and making things bigger on the inside or smaller on the outside?” I giggled as I entered.

“Dad took advantage of the old Timelords Tech, now a single building can comfortably house thousands, millions even. Really saves on resources and makes housing much cheaper.”

“I bet. Really is practical I must say.” I said, messing slightly with my hair. It was getting long so the hubbies suggested I pull it back in a ponytail, and it’s taking a bit to get used to.

“Well then, come on. I got a training room a few ways down the west wing hallway.” She said, the two of us slithering down, passing, in order of what I saw, an automated Mc. Donalds, a Starbucks, an Olympic Swimming Pool, Horse races, felt rather offended at that for some reason, three libraries, a smoothie bar, and a room full of toys. The room we entered was all white, large and empty. “This room will be perfect, it’s designed to stay firm no matter how much power is exerted at it. So we can go nuts while training.”

“Cool, haven't really gone full out since I got these powers.” I said, unconsciously starting to bleed Gray from my body as I stretched.

“Hold on there sister, don’t go unleashing all you got now. For starters you are pregnant, and the last thing you want is for all that power to overwork your body, causing a miscarriage.”

“I’m using my powers?” I said before looking at my body. “Huh, must have been such a small amount I didn’t notice it activating.”

“Heh, anyway. The first thing is the basics, you have an entirely new energy about you, so you should learn how it affects other things you are used to, and vise versa. I want you to use Grey and cast a simple Fire Spell.”

I shrugged before focusing on creating a fireball in my hand, only I tried to use Gray instead of my mana to do so, figuring that that was what I needed to do. I used Grey to power the spellwork rather than mana, and to my suprise, it worked, a spark of red fire with a blue core was burning bright in the palm of my hand. “Well that worked.” I said before adding mana to the gray fireball, experimenting.

As the grey and mana mixed… HOT HOT HOT!!! Thankfully, sis stopped it. “Yeah, figured…” She groaned, looking over the burn marks on my hand.

“Shit, that hurt.” I said, casting a cure over my hand, not caring what power I drew from.

“Yeah, dad told me grey on it’s own is a potent power. But, it’s true strength lies in it’s passive ability. Boosting it’s branching powers. Mixing a little grey with that fireball would have made a Mega Flare, but since it was all grey and a little mana, well, imagine a dam breaking after a single drop of water escapes it.”

“That explains why in that illusion I cracked the world with a single flick of my wrist.” I said, remembering the illusion I was under while visiting Phia. “My overwhelming strength turned my entire body into gray energy, and I combined it with my drive forms and spells while inside it.”

“Shit. Well anyway,” She said, healing my wound. “Now that we know that, we can move onto phase two.”

“Phase two? So soon, you must have thought it to be harder to call on the energy.” I guessed, stretching and moving my fingers before settling them.

“No, just think you’d want to move on. Now, summon your X-blade.”

I smiled, shaking my head before summoning Better Half. “Hey you two, having a good day?”

Well, all we can say is that this is new. Oath and Oblivion’s voice spoke at the same time, giving a pretty weird voice to their combined form.

“Okay, that we can agree on.” I said, shaking my head. Can’t go a day it would seem.

“Now then, flow Grey into it, let it flow through and with it. Let it intertwine your weapon and alter it on it’s own.”

I took a deep breath. ‘Sorry in advance if this hurts.’ I said before reaching into me, metaphorically, and gently letting the ocean of gray flow into Better Half.

The two energies began manifesting along the weapon, almost dancing as they began to combine, and when it was done, Better Half held a grey glowing aura around it, taking its shape like a crystal outline around the weapon. “Good. Good, now then, take aim at the wall over there, and swing, Start with a light burst of energy, as small as you can make it.”

I nodded and imagined a single drop of gray being flicked off the blade as I swing the blade across in front of me.

I was blown back, caught by my sis as the whole wall before me began cracking and catching fire like a volcanic eruption. When it ended, my hair was blown back, and staying stiff. “Wow, not bad.” Rare said, fixing my hair.

“That was a single drop of gray…” I said, in awe… and fear at my own power… is this how Zeke feels all the time?

“I’d say that was enough force to wipe the good chunk of your Kingdom of Equestria off the face of the planet.”

I took a shaky breath before smiling. “It’s a good thing I plan on sharing the power instead of keeping it all to me. If everyone is that powerful, no one has any reason to fear power, and everyone can have hope to strive to greatness.”

“Maybe. Anyway, now go all out. But not enough that you risk your babies, got it?”

I nodded and focused. My body itself started to turn into gray energy as the very floor around me started to crack, and I kept going. The ocean seemed endless, so I stopped once I felt it starting to get even a little dangerous for the kids, knowing that this isn't even half of full potential. My eyes turned silver as gray smoke fell around me. “Omnis finis.” I said before swinging.

The resulting effect was blinding. As it unleashed I felt...fear. Genuine, horror at the damage, the energy… it was borderline unholy. When it ended, all that was left of the room were where Rare Berry and I were standing. Rare whistled. “Not bad, not bad at all.”

“Rare…. Th-that wasn’t even a fraction of the endless ocean….I only stopped once I knew the babies couldn’t handle any more energy flow… That wasn’t even a half powered swing or a quarter…. And…” I said, my voice betraying my fear.

“Huh, neat. Cause that was enough power to completely wipe out a Reflection.” She said, the room rebuilding itself from what was left. She then got onto her assistant. “Wow, you're in the big leagues now.”

That had me afraid. “So I could whip out multiple reflections, without even putting in a half effort…” I said, taking deep breaths to calm myself down, knowing that too much stress is bad for the kids.

“Yeah, and check this out, you and some of your friends are in the real big leagues. You make in the top one hundred of Creation’s most powerful.”

“Wait what?” I said once I finally got my heart rate to calm down and checked the leaderboard on my own Assistant. Never bothered to check it, figured anyone can become this powerful if they had the will and drive to do so. I checked and my jaw dropped.

96.Kilter Grutto
97. Zeke Ventral
98.Kira Foreteller
99. John Corvo
100. Eclipse(a) (Colin) Ventral
101. Jenny Foreteller
102. Lan Foreteller
103. Ben (King of Nothingness)
104. Alex Foreteller
105. Dan Foreteller
106. Bethany Caliber

“Holy shit…” I said. “And I have the feeling that when I finally learn the ins and outs of my power I could pass up Zeke… holy hell.” I said, losing all refinement and sitting on the floor in shock.

“Maybe. So, since this room needs to be fixed and that will take a while how about girl talk?”

I nodded dumbly, still reeling that I was the 99th most powerful being in creation, and i still have yet to learn even a fraction of what I can do. “Sure… I’d like the distraction.”

We headed off to her kitchen, where we sat and ate. “So, what’s your plan?”

I took a sip of my Paopu fruit smoothie before raising an eyebrow. “Whatever do you mean?”

“Well, I mean regarding your kids, what do you want them to be? Warriors, or something normal, cause your eldest are reaching that age. In our family, when one of us reaches fifteen, we get a choice, fight as a warrior for those who can’t, or go on for a normal life.”

“I will leave that choice to them.” I said with a smile. “Scootaloo I can feel following in to the mindset of Warrior already. She is already getting into trouble not because she is a bad filly, but because she is tired of being seen as just another kid, especially after the heartless attacked. I can see Scaith doing the same, the little filly taking on 87 heartless herself already, and she isn’t even ten. I can see Winds becoming a warrior if not a smith. The boy was able to sharpen a wooden sword to the point where dropping it on ot a well crafted desk caused the sword to sink deep into it. Phia is already training to become a Soldier, Gerald and Greka are going to make fine spies and assassins, and for Chase… He seems to me to fit an adventurer vibe, doing everything at least once, but always having some kind of plan to fall back on in danger, but only time will tell with him. As for the rest, I see them living lives as civilians. But again, it is not my place to tell them what they can or can not be, just strive to keep them on the best path for them.”

“And of your unborns? Do you have specific hopes for them?”

I sighed with a smile. “I hope they make none of my families mistakes and live the lives they want, and ignore the expectations and desires pressed upon them. Hell, depending on what one looks like, and if any are male, I was thinking of naming one Joker or Akira, based off the ‘wild card’ Persona wielding Phantom thief. He who defied a god, and ultimately defeated him due to his noble soul and rebellious spirit.”

“... You didn’t have much of a life before being reborn did you?”

“No I didn’t.” I said honestly. “My childhood before my mom’s passing I spent mostly spending time with her, or hidden away. After that, is was a dull life in the system. Hell, I never even got adopted, staying in the system until I reached adulthood. No one gave me the time of day, and those who did I could feel in my blood were the kind that you don’t want to be around. Then came the day the world ended, and what did I do? I saw the chaos, or freedom if you could call it, and shut myself in my room, playing my games.” I said before looking Rare in the eyes with my smile, but my eyes showing the pain from that life. “So no, not much of a life when you never lived.”

“Huh… well you can live now, that’s for sure.” She said, taking a sip of her soda. “The realities we live in are big, and someday sooner than we’d think it’s gonna get easier to travel, sorta, but much, much bigger.”

“I know.” I said, smiling softly. “All I want is the best for my children. If I must suffer for it, so be it. If I had to give up every drop of the power trusted to me, so be it. If I had to die, so be it. As long as they, my family, live fulfilling, happy lives.”

“Hm. And when the Keyblade war hits? What will your role be?”

“Protector.” I said, a wave of power hitting me, causing me to stumble on my words for a moment. “I wish to protect those I can. I gained this power not out of greed, but to protect those who made my life worth living, those who made me not waste my second chance. All my power I give if it means even one soul is spared from the pain that this war will bring.”

“Hm, and what about Zeke?” I asked

“Well, rumor has it that Zeke’s finally showing what having a Balanced heart implies. He’s been playing the hero when his role is meant to be more… peacekeeper, or even Mercenary. All I know for sure is he’s been targeting high power figure heads, taking out any being with power that they use to abuse and get their way.” Berry said.

“Hopefully I’m not on that hit list. If he comes for me, he may be more powerful… but don’t fuck with a pissed off mother.” I said, venom dripping from my voice as I found out later that my eyes turned to snake like slits.

“Hm. Just be careful. Rumor has it he’s already killed four gods. One of which was actually just a demigod, a trickster of sorts.”

“Still, He may be a god slayer, but I at least am not a family slayer, not after my last mistake. If he comes for me, I will not be aiming to kill, only restrain. And even then, I don’t abuse my powers. If anything, it scares me they are so powerful, that I can wipe out reflections with ease.”

“Imagine Zeke’s reaction.”

“Yeah, he probably is over reacting to it.” I chuckled before sighing wissfully.

“It’s not just that. You know he and dad are Reflections, like dad, he wasn’t just born and got this power randomly, he was crafted to be this strong. You know Nexus made every reflection of dad, Zeke included, to be powerful, gain power like nothing or no one else. Zeke, if he could, would walk a different road, but with all the work Nexus put into him, just pretending or ignoring all that power inside is...impossible. He never got the choice to be normal, at least you could have done something else rather than be a hero, Zeke and Dad were built to get power, be the strongest. And sadly… you can’t deny results. Nexus is good at making their living weapons. Dad’s proof enough.”

“Your right, I can’t deny results.” I said before and edge of my classic defying determination leapt into my voice, my eyes flashing. “But anything is possible. They may have been made with the purpose of power, but how they use it? That is up to them. Destiny is but a tie to hold you back.” I didn’t even realize it when phantom, ethereal wings opened up behind me. “And I casted off those chains long ago.” I said with an air of finality, and not a hint of what one would percive as cockyness.

“And you became a self enlightened Alicorn, congrats, if our Princess Celestia were here she’d eat you to Celebrate.”

“Wait what?” I said, the wings vanishing with a small pop as I was hit with that news.

“Awh, your wings are gone.”

“I had wings?” I said, rubbing the part of my back where I knew they would be if I had them. What, you spend enough time around Pegasus and not have their anatomy memorized.

“So. What next then? There’s a lot to cover.”

“Well… We could visit my realm… see what needs to be done with a reflection made of energy.” I suggested.

“Hmm… I have just the thing. Come along.” She said, leading the way along to a large hallway with lots of labeled doors. “Let’s see here… ah, here it is.” She said as he reached the room labeled ‘Elements’.

“What’s in here?” I asked, finishing off my smoothie before snapping, teleporting the glass back to the table.

“A little idea for you.” She said, opening the doors as I saw several piles of colored rocks, each irradiating various levels of different energy, but their compiles mass together made it feel like thick smog, but not in a bad way oddly. “All reflections, back when Creation was young. The Admin of this Reality and all it’s reflections made each element, sub elements, and so on. As such, they all fall into a category, they all have their own unique energy. They take form in these crystals, each can be mined, combined and crafted, and so on. Take this for example.” She said, picking up a glowing dark sky blue Crystal. “This is the element Electronium, otherwise known as electricity. This one gem alone can power a whole city forever. When used by one like you or I, it allows us control over Electronium, like a superpower.”

“So you're suggesting I do the same to gray?” I guessed, looking at the crystal.

“Yes. After all, if you want it to be available to everyone, the best and easiest way to start is to send crystals that radiate it, out into reality. Of course, given Grey amplifies all it touches extremely, best make them smaller than the traditional elemental crystals.”

I nodded before focusing on a single drop of Gray in my mind, bringing it too my hand before asking it to become a solid, small crystal shard. I felt something in the palm of my hand. When I opened my eyes it was a small, half inch Crystal shard of Grey. “Perfect.” Berry said, taking it and looking it over. “Hmm… Good, but don’t make them all this pure. Dilute it by at least sixty, seventy percent.”

“Why, what’s wrong with Pure gray?” I asked, genuinely confused.

She gave me a plan look, placing the shard down and picking up the Electronium. She then used it’s energy, blue lightning shooting from her fingers to the ceiling. She then picked up the shard of Grey, and what came out the next use was like if the Chidori from Naruto met a Kamehameha From Dragon Ball. Breaking the ceiling above...through nine upper floors till I lost count. “That. Anyone else do that and well, let’s just say Hirochima will look like a grenade by comparison.”

“Damn.” I said shaking my head in shock before opening my mind to the endless, evergrowing ocean. “So how do I dilute it?” I asked, my eyes still closed though wisps of gray smoke came out of the corners of my eyes.

“Easy.” She said, spinning her hand around till what looked like...diamonds? “Regular, crystal matter is a great conduit for pure energy, but mixed with already pure element infuzed Crystal it’s just filler. Reducing what’s the elements potency. This is why most Energy Crystals need a cooldown before another, massive use. The more pure, the less or no need of a cooldown for it to self charge. An example is the Purest Electronium Gem in any creation. Arnora's Amulet. It’s power is so potent the only mortals able to even tap into its power is the Electrician royal family.”

I formed a crystal in my hand, not one of gray yet, and kept my eyes closed. “And what about my gray shard? What should be done with it?” I asked as I once again asked for a drop of Gray from the Ocean.

“Keep it.” She said, tossing it to me. “Each element has a Royal family who can use and guards the Purest gems of the respective element. Or, they did…”

“Guess I kinda threw a wrench into that.” I chuckled before opening my eyes to the set of diluted Crystals in my hand.

“Into what?”

“The whole Royal family per Element? After all, mine hasn’t been seen since before creation was made.”

“Oh, no, no, no, no. You have nothing to do with that… it’s just past stuff…”

“I won't pry sis, I have better manners than that.” I chuckled sassily.

“Well, best you learn anyway.” She said, snapping her fingers as two couches appeared for us. We both took a seat. “So, how much about dad do you know, before he became an Admin?”

“Honestly? Only the basics about the world he grew up in. Even trusted me with something from there, even if it would mean removing it from his old home.” I said.

“Well, when Dad was young, like, eight or nine, he was part of a group. Of this group, there were two Celestrians, a human Scientist, himself, and the lost Princess of Electron, Autumn. At the time, they didn’t know that, and they went on a lot of travels and adventures. Now, where did the Shadow Creatures come from?”

“Shadow creatures, you mean the Embodiments or the Heartless?”

“Neither.” She said, waving a hand as a small, almost looked like a Flood Unversed only with Shadow Heartless antenna on it’s head appeared. It’s eyes this human looking that was creepy, but it blinked, it’s eyes now like they are a dark purple. “Much like Heartless, they come from Darkness, but like Unversed, they come from Negative energy. You see, Darkness is a far grander infection than what you know. When an elemental Crystal is tainted by Darkness, it becomes a tainted, poisoned version of what it was. These creatures are a result.”

“But Gray is everything, Including Darkness. Darkness isn't inherently evil anyways.” I argued.

“Yes and no. While some Shadow Creatures, even this kind, in their old generation held intelligence that equaled other intelligent life forms, and many did defect, but the new generations were lobotomized, their intelligence stripped of them so they remain mindless monsters.”

I fent what little darkness that remained in me flash in anger… a memory maybe? “Still, I don't believe darkness is evil, like I don't believe Light is good. But anyways, you were saying sister?”

“They were created by an Electronian, a scientist for the Royal family. You see, the deposit they found and cut to be Arora’s Amulet, he gathered the shards left behind from when it was cut, and with them experimented. The result was unleashing a foul evil, he became a monster, and the SHadow Creatures were his army. The royal family went into hiding, even completely changing their species to hid upon a new world. Another product was this.” She said, a dark, pulsating crystal that wreaked of… evil. There is literally no other word for it. “Dark Electronium. Corrupted electronium. Arguably stronger, but unstable, corrupts whoever used it, and if broke, the explosion can range from grenade to tank shells.”

“That sucks, though sis, for the reader’s sake, we should probably hurry up the history lesson.” I said, giving the readers a wink.

She rolled her eyes. “Fine. The short of it is dad and his friends found the other Royal families related to the other elemental Crystals. Cause there was one final fight. The the heir to Aurora, to Electron, was meant to lead it… she didn’t.”

“Shit.” I said with a sigh.

“We don’t know what happened, but Dad picked up the role, and lead the fight. All the Royals died, soldiers...innocents… killed in the fighting. It was the first War dad fought in, the first of many he’d walk away from. The Celestrians, no idea if they died or not. The Scientist, vanished. And Autumn… well, no one knows.”

“Shit hit the fan.” I said, somehow wincing at my wording. “But If I have to ask, why did you mention them if they are all gone?”

“Because with you, a new generation, for a whole new element can begin again. One day these elements will regain their guardians, and their Pure Gems will be found again.”

“Heh, should have figured a new element suddenly appearing would shake up the powers of creation.” I chuckled nervously.

“Well it is the first new one since this reality was made. Here” She said, snapping her fingers as my shard gained a thin chain necklace. It then was placed around my neck gently. “Now, it’s official.”

“What is, my element being recognized?” I asked, placing a hand over the shard and my fingers tracing along the chain.

“It already was. This is how each guardian carried their Element’s Purest gem, around their neck. Hanging close enough to the heart. You are now Princess Eclipsa, Guardian of the Element of Grey.”

“Liberum arbitrium est dea. Seriously what is it an me talking in latin. I don't even know what I say.” I chuckled.

“It’s normal. Well, normal by our families standards. Latin was the first language Admin Creations spoke, it carries a special place in the languages, Gods Especially, since we are closest in terms of power to our Reality makers.”

“Heh, going to need to learn it later then, if I have the time. I want to know what I say half the time.” I giggled. “So Whats next, teaching me about being a Guardian more, or more about being a god?”

“God now, Guardian… not sure anyone can teach you that. No one alive anyway. So, now that you’ve got that down we can work a bit more on spreading these gems around later. For now, it’s time for something simple.”

“Alright then.” I said, snapping my fingers and storing the crystals somewhere safe for now. “Next on the agenda?”

“Well, first thing first. Is this Realm something you want life to exist in, or will it just be like, the battery for all the energy?”

“Well… I always had the wanderings of what being I could create, but I didn’t want to rush into things, nor do I want to be that silent, inactive god that treats you like your life is meaningless.” I admitted, twiddling my thumbs nervously.

“Well there’s no guidebook so here’s a thought, now, it will be awkward so feel free to deny it. How are your thoughts on Altars?”

“As a kid? Never really gave them a thought. Now? Well, as long as the god is active in someway through them, I don't see much of a problem… oh…. You meant for me.” I said with drawing realization. “I… uhm…. Don’t know. I’ve always been content being humble, but then again, I am literally wanting to play god…”

“You are a god. The easiest way to influence the life around you is altars. Someone gives you something at it, you reward them with a blessing, back and forth over the years you end up with a whole religion about you.”

I winced. “Well… I suppose it's not the worst plan…. Besides, I won't FORCE them to worship me, that will be their choice.”

“Yeah. I got a church on A place called Nophoris. In exchange for good harvests I get free cooked lambs and something they call Dipyu, tastes like pork and fish.”

“That's… interesting.” I admitted. “So… any tips?” I asked as I snapped, opening a DTG straight to the Destiny Island looking place I woke up on after the reflection was created.

“Well to start you have to make yourself known. Nothing small either, make a big, grand show so word spreads, then input the image of the altar you want, once it’s built your passive god magic will link you to it. And offerings given you can give them blessings. In this case, boosted abilities. Now, remember, you’ll want to have a time limit on it otherwise they come once and done. Also some people will pray to you, and you hear that crap… it can sometimes get annoying.”

“Well, first things first I need to give life… a nudge. The Realm is pure energy made solid right now, so, Time to create them…. But do something different, or use myself as a template… choices choices.” I said, slithering through the portal and looking around at the still strangely colored Island.

“Well you can influence life on another world. Heck everyone does it. Dad once dropped a flint lighter on a starting world. He made time pass four hundred years, the had cities and farmlands the size of New York. Point is, everyone screws with other worlds despite Keyblade wielders taking to it like biblical that no world should know about other worlds. Funny since they go to other worlds to recruit new wielders and reveal the very secrets they hide. Heh, hypocripts.”

“Yeah, your right, but honestly Sister, when have I ever been one to take the easy way?” I chuckled, giving my classic grin before closing my eyes and letting my body take its astral form, making all organic parts save for what keeps my kids alive into pure gray energy. ‘What to make… heh… well, there's an idea.’ I thought before letting my presence spread across my realm. I focused, breathing almost meditatively. ‘Why chose only one kind of being?’ I thought before flexing my powers and gently, carefully, creating the forms of the races I wished to make. One set was Naga. I remember of how Sis said that there are so few reflections that have us, and it would be a shame if I didnt help in any way. The next one I couldn't help but wonder where they would go. Think of a Half elf from DnD. Now make it so they are pale, have pale blue lips instead of human shades of red, almost as many hair colors as ponys, only all in darker shades, and I replaced their blood with pure mana, giving them the ability to utilize magic far greater than most, but having to learn how to use it I leave to them. I think I’ll name them Verita. Finally, I Created a Gel like race with a humanoid body structure. I made them to basically be me, Bubbly, happy, but the moment a hunt is called, they can change any gel on their body into a Crystalline structure, as well as absorb any Biomass they deem fit, as long as they are what struck the killing blow. Kryrahn, that's the name I give them.

When I finished I let out a sigh, that taking a bit out of me. I left them all asleep for now as I turned to Rare Berry. “Holy crap… that's tiring….”

“So’s childbirth when you get there.” She laughed. “So, now that you’ve made a whole new breed of life, multiple even, now let’s mess with already existing life.” She said, snapping her fingers as a catalogue appeared in my hands. “This is a list of yet-to-be claimed planets by gods like us.”

I let the species I’ve made to go throughout the world, turning to have normal colors before I took a look at the catalogue.

Volsuria:
A world of humanoid looking beings with very little in terms of established cultures or religions.
ACKF55:
A world of Intelligent reptilian species, Highly advanced, no known cultures.

There were others, but I wasn’t sure which to choose, each world had its own thing about it.

“Damn, so many.” I said, shaking my head. “Stars, how do you handle this sister?”

“I just picked one, did my thing, answer a few prayers. Perform a few miracles, and boom. It ends up pretty much being like an automated farm.”

I nodded before looking through and pointing at one at random. “Lets see… this one.”

“Crestpha? No god ever wants that world. It’s inhabitants are all complete shitheads. Angry jerk offs who burn or shoot anyone they feel is different from them. You sure?”

I thought for a moment before getting a Wicked grin. “Oh I already have an idea, and if it works, then I truly will be the middle finger of reality.” I said with a chuckle, my eyes flashing as I thought of my plan.

“Well, good luck.” She said, grabbing a book. “I’ll be here, awaiting the results.”

I nodded before closing my eyes and willing myself to orbit Crestpha, looking out over the planet before even thinking of going down. It was Medieval in terms of technology. While magic was a thing here most who used ot were burned alive. Kingdoms were varying. There was three major kingdoms and various villages and farmaldns between them, each using natural rivers and mountains as borders. Now, which one to start with? I chose one of the kingdoms at first, turning myself invisible so I can see how they act without influence.

The first Kingdom, Floshura, mainly dealt in farming, the majority of their land all for farming and cattle. Dagalo was all mines, largely coal and Iron. Lastly Calsophre, a less developed land of various villages trading crops, goods and such to one another with the center village acting as the ‘kingdom’. It ran it’s government with guilds, each village was owned or co-owned by guilds. Magic users, I have found, mainly live on a small island off the central landmass, the spellcasters free from the prejudice of the three kingdoms. Which to start with?

I decided to start with Calsophre. I start at the trade hub, the word will spread faster. I floated around, looking for anything that I could use to start a miracle.

It was, a lot like a western town you’d see in movies. Buildings all across one another in two straight lines. Kids were playing, adults were working, shopping… adults publicly adulterating… wow… just wow...

Well, time to make an entrance. I focused and created a Pillar of gray, making sure that it is releasing a calming aura instead of a fearful one. From it I slithered out, keeping my form made of gray as my eyes were a silver in color. After I had stepped out of the pillar for a moment, I let is calmly, slowly face into motes of gray until it was gone, leaving me in my ethereal form.

The town was frozen, no one seemed to move, fear likely. Crap...what do I say? I took a mental deep breath before letting my voice ring out, somehow the Ethereal allowing me to talk without even moving my mouth. ”Hello children I am Eclipsa, Guardian of the Gray. Some revear me as an Ally, one who safeguards your family, wives, children and husbands.” I said, slithering down the street. “Some Fear me as a Destroyer, one who brings down furry upon all those who stand in my way. However, all know me as for what I am. A goddess.” I said Slithering until I come to a stop before some children, too frightened to move. I smile and kneel down, in my hand forming a small mist that soon took the form of a wooden sword for the boy and a doll for the girl, handing it to them with a warm, motherly smile.

Hesitantly, they took them. I pat them on the head before gesturing for them to go to what is obviously their mother. I turned away from them to address the rest of the crowd. ”I have come, offering gifts to not just your people, but to your entire world. Many look at you and turn the other cheek, believing you to be nothing but brutes with no hope of redemption. I think differently. Everyone, no matter their start, may walk the line of Gray. To know the balance of dark and light, to forge their own path. This is the gift I offer, the power to change your fate, protect those whom you hold dear, and maybe, one day, prove to my fellow gods that you are better than what they believe.” I spoke out to them, Ethereal wings flowing off of me once again. This time I noticed them but didn't show my surprise. I don't want to seem as if it is anything new.

They seemed to mutter among themselves. “I’m not impressed.” We all turned around, seeing a man dressed in a long, black trench coat, and a hat that covered his face with it’s angle. He was leaning against a pole on the horse stables.

”Oh?” I said, all sense of calm vanishing as I let a feeling of just… emptiness flow out of me. ”Pray tell, whom are you?”

“Ignore him!” I turned around, seeing a boy dressed in hand made attire, clearly sacks remade into basic clothings. “He’s just a Caster hunter, like everyone else here he hates the magic users.”

“You best keep your mouth shut kid.” The man replied.

“My name is Frath.”

“Well Frath.” He started, I blinked before seeing him throw a blade at the kid, who dodged barely. The thrown blade hitting the ground and sinking to the hilt. “You wanna burn with the other magic users?”

After silently casting a blessing of protection over the boy, I calmly slithered forwards towards the man. “Tell me, Caster Hunter, What is magic to you? Is it any power in which you have no understanding? Or perhaps it is the act of using mana for spells. Perhaps it is the use of elements such as the Light and Darkness that count as magic. Perhaps even you use magic, whether you are aware of it or no in the actions that you take.” I said, never stopping my slow march towards the hunter.

“Heh, what, you think mortal men can’t do anything special without magical aid? For a Goddess you know little. The reason we all hate magic users is that just over two thousand years ago Magic users ruled this world, oppressing and enslaving the ignorant they kept their arts from. But, no secrets stay secret. Our ancestors learned that for one night a year, when all three moons are unable to be seen in the sky, their magic is gone. Gone until sunrise. That night our ancestors butchered and slaughtered the damn casters. We hate them because it’s a deep hate, after all they had our ancestors enslaved for over ten thousand years. They were everything from servants, labor, experiments… spare organs. We were expendable to them. You can’t wipe hate this deep away, so we hate, and continue the hate. It’s our history, our culture.”

I couldn’t help it. I giggled before full on laughing. ”My, is that all?” I said before chuckling again. ”Tell me hunter, what do you know of Light and Darkness, the two ever present powers of all life, the two powers that reside in every heart?”

“Don’t know and don’t care. And frankly, laughing at our history like that really pisses me off.” He said, taking out his spare blade. “You best leave. Cause this is how what happens next plays out. Either you attack me, and kill me, you prove you are just like those magic users of past, or you don’t attack, and I make you bleed. Then we’ll just see you as some magic user trying to play the role of a higher being. So which is it? You gonna kill me and prove our history right, or take the blow and die?”

I chuckled. ”Firstly, you are mistaken. I did not ever laugh at your history, rather I laughed that you believe it is impossible to ever move on from hate.” I said, my eyes quickly scanning over the blade to see if it was any true danger to me, or if it would simply thunk off my body. After confirming that is was I continued. ”Secondly, I would rather take option three, and perhaps prove to you that I can best you in a duel, without magic or anything boosting my powers. Simply you and I, a Pregnant god vs a man who is so narrow minded he cant see the truth when it stands before him. And Third, I ask you to humor me with a question. I know now about your history, but why do you fight? Hatred thousands of years ago should not affect your choice, your Free Will. Tell me why would you possibly doom many just for a foolish pride?”

“Heheh...heheheheh...hahahaha!” He began laughing madly. “Pride? I don’t deal with pride, I deal with revenge… look around this land, do you know what was here before? This very spot held the magic users of old’s castle, while most were butchered, a few escaped. So when Twilight broke, they cast a curse. Quite a nasty one really.” He said, moving aside his cloak...bones. “All who Spilled Caster Blood was doomed to walk forever more the land. Heh, idiots.” He said, closing it. “I lost a lot of my flesh over the years, but I kept my face untouched at least.” He said, taking some steps forwards. “This isn’t about pride, it’s about payback.”

”So it is the few who decide the fate for the many… one so focused on revenge isn't worth my time...” I said, turning my back after casting an invisible shield, using my bunker ability and a single drop of gray to enhance it as I slithered back over to the boy, Fraith.

“Don’t ignore me!” He screamed. I saw him charging me, but I knew my unseen barrier would block his attack… I didn’t expect the boy to step in the way.

“I said… ignore him.” Frath said, the blade through his chest. “Our kind isn’t worth it.” I saw through the tear in his clothes… no blood… he’s like this hunter?

“You brat!” The hunter said, kicking Frath off his blade.

I continued to ignore the hunter as I carefully went over to Frath. “Tell me child, what is the one thing you wish for. I think I know, but I wish to hear it from your lips.” I said, holding him like a mother would, knowing the others in town are watching.

“I wish, something could kill us. I’d not hesitate to drive it into that Hunters head. Sword, arrow, whatever.” Frath said.

“You’re talking fairy tails kid.” The hunter said, his voice getting on my nerves. “The only way our curse can end is when the last Caster on the world dies.”

I smiled. “Perhaps I can do one better.” I said as I looked into the spell matrix making up the curse. All curses can be broken, everything has an end, and for these souls, it is time for their suffering to end, and find rest. ”Tell me child, do you wish for a final rest. If I do this, I may break the curse over your people. Finally, you will know peace.”

“I don’t believe in peace. I’ve seen enough to know that. I don’t want this curse broken… I want my kind punished. This curse was to be our hell, but the ones like him made it their opportunity to continue slaying the magic users. I want justice, for the innocents they slayed, thinking, claiming them to be Casters.”

I smiled before putting my forehead to his, filling his body with a single drop of gray. ”Then I make you a true champion, one who as done wrong, and wishes to make a right. A true wielder of Gray.” With that, I took a copy of the cruse, and changed it, honed it to end the curse by killing the one who was cursed, before forging it into a sword made of diluted gray and diluted mana. The end result was a blade with a normal grip and guard, but the pomle and blade were made of swirling gray and blue crystal. ”I give you the blade Redemptor. With it, you may put to rest, and end those with your curse, and upon the time in which all others who abuse their punishment are dealt with, a gift has been left inside for all those who have learned from their past mistakes.” I said, placing the crystalline, nigh unbreakable short sword into his hand.

“Ha! If that thing can kill me then come here, I’ll be your test monkey.” He said, drawing his blade.

The kid looked it over, then, in a blink, was behind the man. He fell to his knees, his body turning to dust. “I’ll be seeing you in hell Caster Hunter.”

“Heh… you too… you brat.”

“That was...different, but works.” Berry said. After that event I left my little world and observed the events on fast forward with her. “I mean, yeah I said be flashy but that was a bit overkill.”

“Heh, I didn't intend for the Hunter to be there, so that wasn't a part of the plan.” I chuckled.

“Well you did just jump in there without at least learning a bit more about the world aside from the surface. On the bright side that kid did go one and end all the other hunters, casters are integrating nicely back into the world and you have over two thousand churches. Nice.”

I looked at what became my Symbol and chuckled. It was a winged snake wrapped around a sword similar to Redemptor. I chuckled. “Well at least my symbol wasn't a overly sexy snake woman.”

“And your offerings are piling up.” She motioned to the massive pile of foods, items and other goods given at the shrines in the churches they built for me. “Not bad. Not at all. For everyone who follows you, you do get stronger.”

“Well, helps that I give different blessing based off of what they need. If they are praying for a good harvest, I give them the drive to wake up in the morning and have pride in their work, if they are asking for healing, I accelerate their natural healing just enough to be noticable, while still keeping their morality, as if they are just adventurers, I bless with a passive boost to their strongest ability.”

“Wow you are really playing the role. Not even the older gods are like that anymore.”

I chuckled. “Well, what is the point of being a god if you leave people to suffer, but also don't let them live for themselves? Learn at their own rate, but help them when they stumble.” I sighed happily. “Heh, I guess I adapt quickly to what I am.”

“Well if it floats your boat.” She said, giving a stretch. “Oh yeah. Almost forgot I worked out a little Deal with the doctors back at my new job.”

“Oh? What kind of deal?” I said, taking a seat in a chair I conjured.

“Well, it’s about Spoiled.” She said, waiting for my response.

I sighed sadly. “Yes, I am aware of her… condition. As well as that the child she bares is not Ritch’s. What deal have you made.” I said, now more focused on what the deal was.

“Well, I looked her over personally. It seems that as well as her physical health, her mental health has it’s damage too. Expected given what she endured. Unfortunately it’s making her physical health… deteriorate, even with all the rest and medicine. I did take note at how she spoke of you, and she did admit while you swallowing her at first scared her, she admitted she felt safe and calm. This is like… ah, what’s that word… that thing when Nurses fall for their patients, but reversed. The patient has fallen for the doctor.”

I chuckled sadly a bit. “A reverse Nightingale effect… heh, Wonder if that is a good thing… And what of the deal?”

“Well, since this is the case with her the only way to both keep her mental health up as well as heal her physical health… is with you. Unfortunately, off the equipment for too long can and will kill her… but… inside your healing stomach… she’d be fine if not better than hooked up to life support.”

I gained a small, sad smile. “I guess this is one fate I can't break. I was the one who dived to find her, even defeating and putting to rest an Embodiment to do so. With me being the knight, only fair I make her feel safe. It’s the right thing to do.” I said.

“That, and this is common practice back on our homeworld’s reflection. Serious injuries are healed within the healing belly of another, be it a paid ‘carrier’ volunteer, or a nurse or doctor, it’s common in the medical field and even the Psychiatrists recommend it for those suffering through loss or mental instability. Plus, it will keep Tiara closer to her mother since she is already living with you. While I can not say if this treatment will make her… well enough to survive the birth, it does give her a chance. It also allows me to examine the infant as it grows. As well as Spoiled condition.”

“Heh, sister, I was already convinced form the moment you began.” I said, stretching before standing. “After all, I always strived to be better. Sometimes better doesn't mean power.” I said, hugging Berry.

“Thanks.” She said, hugging back. “But I do have a few selfish reasons for this.” She said, letting go. “While examining her, and her infant the energy the like, seventeen celled thing gave off felt bizarre. I can’t quite explain it, but given where she was it’s best to keep as close an eye on it as possible.”

“I will say this Sister, I have sworn to adopt and protect the child if the worst was to ever come to pass.” I said before smiling again. “But I trust your judgement. I can't do everything alone.

“Alright, now then. A little tip for keeping someone in your stomach this long you will have to treat Spoiled like two extra developing infants, meaning eating that much more food, three times really considering she is also pregnant. That is a lot of food, but possible.”

I chuckled before gesturing to the giant pile. “With this, plus the amount of Rem, Munny and Bits I own, I’m not to worried about the food, more worried about and Embodiment or something coming to kill me while I’m carrying her and the kids.”

“If that happens, call me, or Our Diamond Tiara. Yes, we have one as a sister too. Somehow give all these girls combat experience and they all kick ass. Anyway, sister DT can handle them. She’s making a place here too, but down in the frozen souths. Something about Cold Climate training. Girl takes this stuff too seriously.”

I was suddenly worried for Tiara. “Yes well, if she ever needs it colder, she knows a sibling with an Ice intunement is on the world.” I said before creating a way for the offerings to be stored on my assistant before opening a DTG back to Berry’s home. “After you, unless there is another thing I need to know?”

“No, that’s it. Head on off and get Spoiled, oh and that nurse that orgasmed inside you… keep an eye out for her… she’s friskey.”

I chuckled. “I bet.” I said, stepping thru. I made another Paopu fruit smoothie before heading off to the Hospital.

As I arrived the Doctors saw me and one walked up. “Ah, miss...mr… miss?” He asked.

I giggled. “Honestly Dr, just call me Eclipse or Eclipsa, depending on my body. Make it easy on yourself.” I told him.

“Right then. Eclipsa, as you know the...request you sister provided is abnormal, but given medical texts and the proven medical applications of said intestinal fluids of this particular stomach made quite the hard to dismiss argument.”

I nodded. “Yes, it is quite the thing, but let's not waste time. The sooner this is done, the higher chance Spoiled has.” I said with a understanding but determined tone.

“Yes, we have staff with her now waiting to unhook her. She has been informed and agrees completely with the situation. You know where her room is, right? Or remember at least.”

I nodded with a kind, surreal smile… guess being a goddess and having all those prayers is getting to me. Heh, and I… well, I cant help but love all those who I take care of, both on that planet and the ones I created. Makes me feel all fuzzy inside. “I can find my way doctor, I’ll let you get back to your own job.” I said, slithering towards Spoiled’s room.

As I went the floor up, her floor, I opened the next door and… Suddenly I’m on the floor, that nurse was here… drooling over me. “Finally~” She cooed… fuck why was that sexy.

“Uhm...Hello again Nurse… I realize I never caught your name.” I said casually from under her. “Anyways, please refrain from tackling me again, I am carrying young after all.”

“I know! I tasted that maternal love.” Shit did her eyes just turn into hearts?! “So much love… so much variety~!” She then flashed with Green Flames… Chrysalis?! She got closer to my face… “Take me..”

“What?” I said, my brain trying to focus and make sense of all this. “Chrysalis, look, we can talk about this in a moment, but right now, there is a mare that needs to be swallowed so she has a chance to see her own child. Please, just wait five minutes, then we will need to talk.” I said, not even freaking out over the fact she is a changeling, much less the queen who from what I heard ruined my brother’s wedding.

“Shhh. Just take me. Make you your breeding slut for all I care, just keep me in that love filled stomach!” She said, prying open my mouth and in a blink she was half way down… What the hell?!

I groaned and just accepted it before swallowing her, speeding her along. “Gods the hubbies are going to kill me.” I said, standing back up and heading back on my way to Spoiled. Thankfully she went into the storing stomach… oh god I can feel her licking my stomach walls and masterbating… why is that so kinky for me?! I bit my lip to keep a small groan in pleasure down as I tried to focus on getting to Spoiled’s room. Though my Queen passenger didn't make it easy. I’m pretty sure if my organs aren't hidden right now there would be a water mark on the floor right now.

I arrived at the room and there was another Doctor and two nurses there. “Ah, miss Eclipsa. We have been waiting for you. Miss Spoiled was given some heavy morphine and sedatives, so she can sleep for an hour or so while we unhook her. She might not be able to move much at first in you healing belly but from the samples nurse Wasp got from all those days ago we do know the pain for her will be dulled enough she can move a little, though from what your sister has given us, what we know and Spoild’s health as is we figure she might not be able to step out of your belly for at least two months.”

“I understand. Oh and Nurse ‘Wasp’ told me she might be busy for a little while, so if she doesn't check out if you could make sure that gets done for her.” I said, not believing I am covering for a horndog changeling right now.

“Oh, how abnormal. Then again she has been acting strangely lately. Maybe she has a crush? I often find her blushing and her head in the clouds.” She shrugged. “Eh, sure she’ll tell me one of these days.”

Oh you have NO idea. “Yes well, I’m sure she will. Has spoiled been removed from Life Support yet?” I asked, slithering over to the bed.

“We will begin now. We know your saliva is a natural disinfectant but we will be cleaning her off with some hot water. We will begin now, we just ask...huh, never thought I’d saw this but keep your mouth open wide by her hind hooves so we can slide her in and… you can swallow her the rest of the way. Wow...fourth weirdest thing I’ve said since Ponyville’s changed.”

“Do I want to know what number one was?” I giggled, my hand covering my mouth slightly.

“Well, it went something like ‘if you want his Keychain out of you she needs an anal orgasm’ … Yeah that was a strange one.”

“...Well… Stars even I can't top that one, and everyone knows how insane my life is.” I said with a dropped jaw.

“Yeah, bizzare day that one. Well, shall we begin Doctor?”

“Yes.” The doctor said as the three of them began working on unhooking her while I kept my mouth as wide as possible. I got a few stares for it but they kept their attention on Spoiled. Once all that equipment, even the casts were removed they moved her slightly. “Alright… we will begin moving her into your mouth… second strangest thing I’ve said.” The doctor said.

I chuckled and made sure the path to the correct stomach was open so there was no chance of her going down the wrong path. Once her back legs were entering my throat I began slowly swallowing, careful not to mess with her still broken bones and bruised areas. When I had finished I looked around the room. “Anything I need to sign?”

“Well a few forms stating any harm that might happen to her in your care is your responsibility. Simple stuff really. We also would like you to come in weekly so we can examine miss Spoiled and you, as well as gather more samples. You sister is a good source for acquiring them but multiple sources is always best.”

“Heh, I don't see the problem Doctor, as long as it is on weekends as I will be teaching starting tomorrow.” I said with a slight chuckle.

‘Ah, then either Friday afternoon or Saturday mornings can work.” He stated. “By the way, your, er, bulge seems bigger than it should be for a mare of Spoiled’s size within you. I am aware of your pregnancy but you should not be showing this much extra size so early, even from what I have read up on from the medical texts your sister provided. Is there another inside your storing belly?”

I chuckled, putting on a mask of peaceful mirth. Thank you Sunbutt for those lessons I never thought I would need. “Yes, I do have another friend resting up after along day inside, besides, I am carrying nine children.” I informed them, not lying but not saying the whole truth.

“Hm, well alright then. Just as long as their not in the same belly then. I shall bring the paperwork, just wait here while I get them.”

I nodded before sighing. I probably have a few minutes… after the doctor and nurses left I started to swallow myself to see Chrysalis. It is time for that talk.

Now I know sis said this works differently but I should be able to do it just right and- “Hello sexy~” Chrysalis said… oh, it worked… Before I could speak though she wrapped her hooves around my neck, and...was kissing me… wo-woah! Her tongue is long… Damn it why is this a turn on?!

I had to force myself to break away from the kiss. “Chrysalis, we need to talk, not bang.” I said seriously… and honestly worried for her.

“Can’t we do both~” She said, using that tongue to lick my cheek.

Damn it! “Look, First things first, I am Loyal to my mates. Hell, one of my spouse's is the… now ex…. Element of loyalty. Another is kindness and finally Princess Luna. I will not do anything with you without first their permission, and two, without knowing more of you, such as why you are practically in heat from my presence.” I informed her, physically having to pull her away to look into her eyes.

“It’s your love!” She said, licking me more...fuck that is a long tongue. “It’s so potent, so rich...so addicting. When I was first sent down into your belly to collect samples I was scared, after all, I am a bug, but the second I entered… dear heavens, there was no end to your love, your passions. It’s limitless, infectious. I wanted more, and I didn’t care if I have to be your whore, your brood slut, your toilet, just so long as I can have more!”

I sighed. “Chrysalis, there is more to me than just love.” I said, breaking my own seal and letting just a fraction of my bloodlust, my anger, my rage...my sorrow and despair flow out. “I just refuse to let others know just how much I hurt.” I said, for the first time in a while, letting my smile fall around someone whom I don't know if I could trust. “I’m not perfect Chrysalis. I don't want you as just a toy to use. I want to know the you before I allow you into my heart. And my heart is filled with much, much more than just love.”

“.... I don’t get it?” She asked, giving the blankest stare and tilting her head…

That can't be good. “Chrysalis, what don't you understand?” I asked calmly, but not resealing my emotions.

“... literally everything you just said.”

I sighed. “Chrysalis, Imagine the greatest despair you could ever feel. Imagine the fear that everything you have come to care about will disappear. Imagine the sorrow that you know that within two years you will lose loved ones because of your choices, and nothing will change that. Imagine the rage at the one that would cause that. And for the bloodlust? Heh… Well I always had that. I’ve just learned to accept it.” I said.

“... What’s a loved one?”

Now it hit. “Chrysalis…. You’ve never been loved before…. Have you?”

“I’ve...had love in me, when I eat it. Does that count?”

I shook my head and held her to me in a hug. “Chrysalis, you’ve only been feeding off of love meant for another… never love ment for you. Chrysalis, the reason why you feel so full, the reason it's so addictive, is because I love everything, even you to a degree. Hell, I’m not even mad about my brother’s wedding, because it is such a petty thing. What you are feeling, and eating, is unbridled love directed at you, not someone you pretend to be.”

“... You lost me.” FUCK!!!

I sighed in exasperation. “Chrysalis, emotions are more than food!”

“Well, maybe to you, but my kind do consider them food. We can eat other things but in order to not die we need at least a drop of love a day, and that’s just to make it to the next drop.”

I held her close. “And, what of your feelings? You may be a creature that consumes emotions, but others have seen you angry, happy, and I’ve seen you horny.” I chuckled. “Why dont you deserve the feeling directed at you? Why can’t it still be food, but also another thing?”

“I don’t know. Only Changeling with answers might be mom… but she’s been sleeping for the last four hundred years.”

“If you want answers, we could go and ask. Everyone deserves to be loved, and to know the feeling rather than the food.” I said, giving her a soft kiss right under her horn.

“Are you crazy!” She yelled, grabbing my face and looking me in the eye. “My mother may have been the best queen to rule the hive in it’s sixty seven thousand years of time on this planet but she is crazy! Any drone unable to do all their tasks and jobs on less than half a drop of love she drained then ate them! Hell I was only able to take the throne because she ate all my five hundred siblings! All because they failed in the most minute way possible! If you wake her up and she finds out I failed an invasion and led the hive into it’s current state of starvation I’ll be next…”

I chuckled. “Well, she’d have no way of knowing if all of your drones were full… would she?” I said, releasing not only all of my love, but the love that the followers feel for me.”

“Yes she would! Once she awakes the mind link will tell her all she needs. We’d be lucky if the spared the unhatched! Not to mention her war sword! Oh stars if she uses it forget it, dying would be mercy!”

I simply leaned back. “Wouldn't be the first, or even second time I’ve died or been tortured. Besides. Knowledge is a weapon onto itself. Tell me what the weapon does. And even if I knew nothing… Chrysalis, I am powerful enough to wipe out this entire universe with just a casual swing of my blade.”

“Well, uh… it’s about the length of my body, all black and I don’t know what it’s metal is, all I know it must be really powerful. Oh, and it has this chain that links to a dangling black crown towards the bottom.”

….. “Does it look like this?” I asked, summoning Oblivion to my hand.

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! Get me out of here!” She said, trying to claw out of my belly… hehehe, that tickles!

I simply chuckled before full on laughing, unsummoning Oblivion. “Oh it's just Oblivion… hehe I was worried there she had another more rule breaking blade.” I said. ‘And speaking of which, care to tell me why you are with her mother?’ I mentally asked the keyblade in question.

”I think I remember her… and I mean it when I say this Eclipse… she was, without a doubt in my mind, out of every single wielder I have/ever had, the evilest wielder I have ever had.” He said, Oblivion’s voice not even giving a hint of humor, all serious… unlike him at all.

‘Holy shit, sounds like a mega bitch.’ I said to him while I tried to calm down Chrysalis, to show her it was gone and wasn’t going to hurt her at all.

”You have no idea. It was back on the Equis Alicornian Era. She was given a Keyblade, me, at a young age, then trained under her master… her master, however, was a cruel, sadistic teacher. He taught her things that were outlawed all across the Keyblade Bearing kingdoms. When the Keyblade war struck, she found her Union master, Ira...and ate his heart. After that she proceeded to slaughter countless others. When the dust and blood settled she took Ira’s mask, wearing it as a symbol of her devotion to carnage. After all, to gain her mark of Mastery, her master made her fight him,kill him, then eat him, body, soul, heart. To do such a forbidden ritual like that while making one much stronger, gaining all the devourdes knowledge and even sometimes Keyblade, also taints them. I know how you are Eclipse, but I mean this. There is no saving this mare. She IS too far gone.”

I sighed, not liking it but I can feel it in my heart. Even if i was to talk her down, she would probably just commit suicide from the guilt. ‘Fine… But can she still even wield you with your loathing of her?’

”Yes. When a Keyblade chooses their master… it’s for life. Once we are first summoned in their grip, we are bound to them forever. No matter how dark or twisted they become… I chose her because… Well, at the time Oath and I had an argument. Our wielders before I picked her, while friends...fought… and killed each other. We wanted to keep a distance, the whole event just… It’s in the past.”

‘I can tell.’ I said with a mental smirk as I watched Oath’s pale yellow and while light wrap around Oblivion’s black and purple. ‘You both have grown, your X-blade status is proof of that.’

”While true… Eclipse, if you face her, brother can not be there with you.” Oath said. ”While you are without a doubt much stronger than she is, her bond with brother is stronger than yours. He will be on her side in that fight. You’ll only have me. And very few times did my wielders win against his.”

I smiled, My eyes flashing. ‘Tell me, does she have the recall ability? I know all keyblade wielders do… but some can’t recall if it is in the hands of another keyblade wielder.’ I said, my grin growing and slightly creeping out the changeling I’m with.

”It won’t work.” Oblivion sighed. She bound my Keychain to her heart. My weapon form to her teeth. She made sure no other wielders of me can summon me in her presence. It’s some of those forbidden teachings her master taught her. Total binding.”

‘Thats fine, because I already have a plan. Oblivion, you may be bound to her… but that doesn't mean you have to help her, only that your body does. I only ask that you fight back for your freedom while we fight, do not give her any help and instead fight back. We forge our own fate, as if she has tried to take yours, it is your duty to take it back.’ I said with conviction. “Chrysalis, I may have a plan to end your mother, after we get some answers. Her ‘War blade’ you call it? It is a living weapon and one of my best friends. She has enslaved it to herself, but I’ll be damned if I let someone keep one of my family captive and just stand aside.” I said with a burning passion, Gray practically flowing out of me as my wings yet again appeared.

“Love!” She screamed, licking me all over and WOAH! Only the hubbies touch there on me!

“Down girl!” I said, pulling back. “Look, I get that you are love starved, but right now I need you to focus. When we get to my home, I will be letting you out. We will have a talk to my mates. We can work out a deal for you to feed from me every now and then, but we will also be planing a plan of attack against your mother.”

“Fine, but when this fails and we all die, I’ll be telling you I told you so from my burning pot of hot oil in tartarus.”

“Heh, or I’ll tell you I told you so from on top your mother’s throne.” I chuckled. “So, I’ll need to get out here, but Warning ,next time you see me my…. Assets will be bigger.” I blushed while chuckling.

When I got out my scales shed, leaving a silk smooth revealed skin, even my pony anthro half was baby soft. My tail was easy a quarter longer, easy ten inches bigger, Spoiled and Chrysalis's bulges barely visible, and my boobs went a whole bra size up… crap, my shirt barely fits, any tighter and these bigger knockers will be staring it open.

“Damn, gonna need to go shopping again already.” I muttered right in time for the doctor to walk it and stutter. “Heh… just shed my scales. If you want, you could use them to learn more about nagas?” I suggested, trying to make this less awkward as my breasts were practically bulging in my shirt. So tight… so sensitive….

“Oh, well that could prove useful. I see you also grew in terms of length and size of your tail as well as your...teats. Hm, bizzare placement for them. Anyway, go on, just check in either Friday afternoon or Saturday morning.”

I nodded. “Alright Doctor. Talk to you later.” I said before leaving… time to head to the store before home… more clothes here I come.

As I walked through town, I noticed even more ponies were giving me a look. Has it been my boobs the whole time? Damn it, I have no idea what it is that’s giving me their looks. When I got home and the hubs saw me… their jaws dropped. “Um, Eclipsa… did you get work done or…?” Blitz asked.

I sighed. “No, Naga can grow their tail and breasts by shedding their scales and swallowing themselves. I did it so I can talk to someone privately and… well it had the necessary but not unwanted side effect.” I explained.

“Oh… that must come in handy.” Star said. “I think, maybe for… specific jobs… So, you spoke with Spoiled inside you?”

“Heh, no, she’s still going to be out for another hour… I met someone who has probably been more emotionally abused than nearly anyone I’ve ever met, to the point where they don't even recognize love as an emotion.” I told them. “I’m still carrying them so you could met them and help me plan something, but they have been working in the hospital and been rather helpful in their studies.”

“Who?” Scotch asked.

I sighed and forced Chrysalis out of me, putting her on the floor. “No one attack her… Blitz.”

Blitz stopped just a few inches from the Changeling. “Uh, hi.” Chrysalis said.

“Everyone Queen… or should princess be a more fitting title… Chrysalis.” I said with a slight smirk

“Either or.” She shrugged.

“Now, Chrysalis, before we continue, do you have a place to stay?” I asked, taking a seat in a comfy chair, treating it like a throne.

“I have an apartment in town. Been living there the past four months.”

I nodded. “Now before we start to plan everything, you boys have something to get off your chest?” I said, looking at the still staring Stallions of the house.

“Um, it was really mean how you invaded a wedding like that.” Scotch mumbled.

“While your plan was impressive you should have kept young armor and Cadenza apart. At that point you’ll only have to worry about Eclipse. Who while not here his Keyblade wielding friends and Elements would have been your biggest threat, and you seemed to deal with them okay.” Star said.

“I don’t like you.” Blitz said short and sweet.

“Alright. Oh and the invasion would have been over the moment she saw oblivion apparently.” I said, a slight growl creeping into my voice as my eyes become slits. “Her mother enslaved Oblivion to her to the point to where if I was to fight her, I would be unable to even use him.”

“You can enslave a Keyblade?” Scotch asked.

“I imagine such an act is not well accepted among other Keyblade wielders.”

“It is a forbidden act. Hell most of her training was, right down to killing and eating her master’s heart, body and soul. She is also the one who killed the original Ira… hmmm… maybe the Foretellers could help… I’m sure Ian would like revenge….” I thought out loud “At least for one past reflection of him.”

“Well, that’s up to you then.” Star said. “Aid in combat is always good, and with you pregnant and holding children it might be best if they are there.”

I nodded. “But, one way or another, I will free Oblivion. Oblivion and Oath… they are not weapons, or even allies. They are family to me, and I will not allow my family to suffer in the hands of one such as her…” I said, the wings flowing out my back.

“Then what do you propose?”

I summoned my shield, Oathkeeper, My humanity blade, my gun, and as much gray as I could without harming the children or Spoiled. “Easy. I go to war.”

“Against one pony?” Blitz asked.

I summoned Oblivion in his pony form. “Oblivion, tell Blitz in a way he can understand please?” I begged.

”This monster is a one being army. She does this by both utilizing all the forbidden teachings she was taught, and utilizing fully my passive abilities. She’s fast, deadly accurate, and a fast calculator. She doesn’t go down easy. There is one advantage though.”

“And that is, besides her being alone?”

”The reason she stepped down as queen and went to sleep for this long is because some of those forbidden abilities were finally catching up with her. Her body was rotting from the inside out. Even sleeping all this time the rot has to have gotten to at least her greater left side. The more she fights, the faster the rot. If we can just keep her going long enough her rot might kill her for us.”

“Alright, oh and while your here, can changelings feel love as well as eat it?” I asked for the buggy queen, whom of which still put a lot of distance between herself and Oblivion

“I mostly eat it. Never felt it.” Chrysalis said.

“Well you would never have known it before have you? You consume it, but never have had any directed at you.” I said, letting some of my caring flow out.

“I guess not?”

I got out of my chair and hugged her. “Look, Love is more than food, you just need to open your heart to it.” I said, ignoring the shocked looks from the others as I even wrapped my ethereal wings around her. “Tell me, what do you hold dear?”

“...I don’t know.”

“Heh. So, your reaction about your subject being drained did not make you feel fear? One who didn't love wouldn't care about what happened to them, yet you did.” I said softly, letting my love flow for her, not just randomly.

“Fear is quite different from love.”

“But it was fear for one other than yourself.” I said, holding her as I gently rocked us. “Please, tell me what you feel, not what you eat.”

“Hmm… I feel afraid.”

“What are you afraid of, your mother?” I asked gently.

“Yes. Growing up out of all five hundred siblings I had, she made us fight, as soon as we were old enough to hold a small blade. She made the winners eat the losers, and at some point she got fed up...ate who was left. She left me spared because I barely started combat. Made me queen at three hundred years old, in normal pony years I’d place that at about four years old. She then went to slumber…”

“And since you knew nothing else, you somewhat followed your mother's footsteps.” I finished. “Chrysalis, tell me, do you believe in fate?”

“I didn’t follow her example.” She stated. “When I took the crown, it was to a kingdom with no subjects… I had to...lay, all the current generation changelings… I was alone in that castle for four hundred years till finally someone came along and found me. Starved and barely alive.”

“And who was that someone?” I asked, never once stopping the flow of love.

“Scorpan.” She said.

“Tirek’s brother?” Star asked surprised.

“Yes. He let me feed from him, raised me. He...said he came from a the badlands, but left with his brother, and returned alone. He never said much. But he told me there was a land where even love and friendship flowed among its population like water.”

“Equestria?” Scotch asked.

“Yeah. For the next three hundred years he told me stories and painted beautiful words in describing the place. Sadly, when I was of age and finally laid eggs and the first drones of my kingdom were growing, he passed. I went to Equestria, hiding as a pony to see how it really was… it was everything he described and more… when I felt I could drop the illusion… I saw how easily fear can overcome all past experiences of joy and companionship… So, if the sight of us would bring them fear, and forget all the friendships made the second we looked different, I figured… I’ll have to take it. Sixty years later, I started my invasion. The rest you know.”

“Chrysalis… Look at me.” I said, lifting her chin to look into my silver eyes. “I know this won't change the past, but if it helps, if you had came to me, I wouldn't have ran in fear… heh, I may not have even cared, simply ask if your emotions while you were hiding were genuine.”

“Back then...yes.”

“There is always a chance to change fate.” I said, seeing a string connected to Chrysalis become cut when I said those words…. Weird. “Take it into your hooves and forge your own. We can help you, and we will remove that in which had you hiding in fear.”

“...I’ll try.”

I kissed her forehead. “That is all I ask. If you want I can go with you to the hospital tomorrow, keep them from freaking out if you don’t want to hide as Wasp anymore.”

“... Just to Nurse Flu Shot, she’s...a bizarre mare, might not get freaked out at first… the others over time.”

I nodded caringly, slowly unwrapping from her. “Do you three have anything to add?”

“Still don’t like her.” Blitz said.

“This extra information is good to know.” Star said.

“You’ve had such a harsh life. You poor dear.” Scotch said.

“See, at least two of them are willing to give you a chance, and Blitz is just being stubborn.” I giggled.

“Figured.” Chrysalis said. In a flash of green she was back to her Nurse Wasp persona. “Welp, I best head home. I guess I’ll be here tomorrow. Don’t have work tomorrow. If, you’ll have me that is.”

I nodded happily. “So long as you don't mind stopping off at the school with me, need to pick up my teacher id and schedule.”

“I guess.” She said, leaving.

I smiled and turned around to a Star directly in my face. “Uhm….. Yes dear?”

He smiled at me. “You did a good thing.”

I smiled. “I know. I just hope that by the end, Oblivion will be free, and Chrysalis is no longer fearing something like that monster of a mother.”

“Yes, that will be the outcome. Because it’s you who is chasing said outcome. Also, I see you developed some wings. Interesting.”

“Yeah.. Apparently I’m a alicorn now, but the wings disappear after some time.” I said as they slowly faded. “See?”

“Hm. Not fully. The right to claim that title is there, but you need to perform a grand act before your wings will appear.” Star said. “What that is, I can not say. For me, it was aiding my sister in raising the moon and lowering at, after the strain of doing both wore her down over the months when she first moved both.”

“Heh, becoming a god wasn't enough apparently.” I giggled.

“These things are strange. So, now that this has all been established, dinner will be ready soon, so before then hopefully Spoiled will wake up and Diamond Tiara can speak with her.”

“Lets hope, though Let's hope I don't have to shed again so soon… already so sensitive, and I already needs new dresses and bras.” I chuckled before slithering over to the dining room.

“Hey.” I turned, seeing Zeke’s DT there, leaning against the wall.

“Oh hey, How’s Tiara doing with her training DT?”

“Good. Here.” She said, tossing- For FUCK SAKE! I backed up as I saw my own head rolling towards me. “Killed it.”

“Jesus Christ, Don’t throw my own head at me!” I said, holding a hand over my heart.

She rolled her eyes. “Eh. Anyway, I know you’ll be fighting another wielder of Oblivion.”

“Yeah, the bitch that practically enslaved my soul-brother.” I growled out.

“I decided to break a few rules and got some info on her.” She said, taking out a file with the Unicornius union mark on it. “This is her file. At least, what she didn’t keep hidden from them. I did include her masters journal though. That should give you some more info you’ll need to take her out. Once you finished reading both over and memorize the info, burn them. Can’t have paradoxical items existing out of their place in time after all.”

I chuckled. “Yup, being a living Paradox myself, I can understand that” I chuckled. “So, hows one of my many Nieces doing?” I asked with a smile.

“Alive.”

I frowned. “DT, what's wrong? What's going on in that Edgey pink head of yours?” I chuckled slightly.

“Nothing. After all, what can a time traveler really tell you?”

“True.” I said taking a sip of a conjured smoothie. God I’m addicted to this stuff. “DT, you know you can talk to me if you need to, right?”

“No. I can’t.”

“Why not?” I said taking a seat at the table.

“I made a promise.”

I sighed. “Fine, I won't pry, but you are not alone, alright?”

“Define alone.” She said, a massive clock appearing behind her as… through it, I saw her, all ages, genders. Races. Species. “It means to be alone, just with yourself… I guess I am.” She smirked, walking into the clock as it vanished.

“God damn time traveler's.” I chuckled, looking out the window and watching the setting sun. “Wonder how many more times I’ll see it…”

Training

View Online

I woke up in the middle of the night. Something wasn’t feeling right. Something happened.

”Oh Dear it happened again.” Oath said.

”Yup. Well shit.”

‘What’s going on?” I said, shooting straight up much to the groans of the hubbies.

”If we heard right, Trixie, Zeke’s, is now like him. A living X-blade.”

”I know. How exciting!” Oath said.

‘Then why doesnt it feel right. When Zeke became a X-Blade I barely felt it, but it never filled me with so much… dread.’ I said to them, my heart telling me, no, screaming at me that something is wrong.

”Maybe because you didn’t have this much power before? As for why you feel it is bad, I don’t know. We just got word from the grape vines. It’s fascinating, two! Two living X-blades. Never imagined such a thing could happen twice, and so soon from the first.”

‘Well we also never imagined that you two working together for the first time in eons would help forge a different X-Blade.’ I pointed out, still unable to shake the feeling.

”Well whatever the case, we will learn more about it later on.”

‘I guess… I just hope my gut feeling is wrong for once…’ I said before slithering downstairs to make breakfast. ‘You two want to eat or wanna pass?’

”Pass.”

”Hard Pass. Food is good, but digesting and shitting ain’t worth it.”

‘Fine fine. Heh, You know, I never got to tell you two thank you.’ I thought to them, dancing around the kitchen as I started up cooking a naga styled meal, using some of the offerings as well as the ingredients we already had.

”For?”

‘Being family to me.’ I smiled ‘You two may have been bonded to me outside of your choice, but I have known you two from the moment I could walk on my own. You two are just as much a brother and sister to me as Shining, Spike and Twilight are. Thank you.’

”Why, thank you Eclipse. But you do forget, Keyblades choose their wielders.”

”Yeah. And we chose you no more nuts. God may have handed us to you, but if we didn’t want you, we would not have appeared.”

‘Thanks you two. I… heh… I almost wish I was a keyblade, just so I wouldn't have to leave you two one day. But hey, this makes our time just the sweeter, and all the more special.’ I sighed in content, humming Simple and Clean as I cooked.

When everyone got up, hours later, the food I kept warm with some simple spells and we all ate. The kids went off to school and I got to go with them. Today was my first day of work after-

“Hold it!” We all looked up, seeing Cloud Chaser flying above us.

“Hey Cloud, Whats up?” I asked with a giggle.

“You all have to go back home. Got a late update that Ponyville is late for bringing winter...again. So we’re gonna make a snow storm for the next three days. You got five hours to get what you’ll need before then then lock up your homes. So school’s out foals!” She announced, the kids cheering as they bolted back home, leaving me alone… but...but… this was meant to be my first day...

I couldn't stop the small pout and single tear, mood swings hitting hard again . “Awe… on my first day too… I had so much planned…. sniff.”

“Oh, thank goodness!” I turned, seeing Cheerilee run up to me. “Eclipsa. I take it you got the news about the three day snow storms?”

I sighed, whipping away the tear. “Y-yeah, though it’s affecting me more than it should.”

“Heh, yeah. I was surprised when it came out. I figured since it will be a bit longer till you’ll have time to read these.” She said, reaching around in her saddle bags and pulling out some papers. “Some class planners and the District Guidelines for Physical Education classes. You’ll need to read and follow them before teaching. This will at least give you time to plan your first classes.”

“Alright… I just hope the first day I had planed fits the guidelines.” I giggled weakly before giving Cheerilee a small hug. “Thanks Cheer.”

“You’re welcome. Uh...Eclipsa, did your teats grow?” She asked, face buried between my now bigger knockers…

I blushed before pulling her away a bit. “Heh heh… yeah… When Naga shead our tails grow longer as well as grow our height and teats...heh… I did it for two reasons, the first to talk to someone privately, the other to try it out for myself… not like I needed it.” I blushed, hiding behind my lightning blue hair.

“Heh, well that definitely works. So, that was all I came over for.” She said, taking my arms off her. “I gotta do some shopping now to prepare.” She said, trotting off.

I sighed to myself, deciding to take a small look at the papers as I headed home, knowing that, if Blitz replaced the window properly, the house was already good, and its not like we have a shortage of food.

As I headed back I saw Tiara getting swallowed by Scootaloo… eh. Sweetie Belle was watching… classic Spider Man? Cool… why does this TV only pick up old cartoons?

Silver Spoon was here two, watching tv with Sweetie Belle as they shared a large bowl of popcorn.

I smiled before heading over to the kitchen to fill out and read these papers. I need to know what I can and can not do before I cause any legal problems for Cheer.

Ponyville School District Physical Education Guidelines.
Under no circumstances can any of the activities to cause physical harm to the foals under the teachers supervision.
If harm is to come to a student, the teacher is held responsible and will be given a two week suspension from teaching while they attend required court dates and District required re-evaluation and foal safety classes.
P.E. (Physical Education) Classes are to be graded based on three factors. Participation. Performance. And Teamwork. Participation in activities is the most, being a total of 50% of their class grade. Performance is worth 15% of their total grade, unless District mandated activities say otherwise. The remaining 35% falls on their Teamwork ability when in planned activities.

“Hmm… Looks like a lot of wards will need to be placed… but how to teach them to fear the pain without pain present…” I muttered to myself, writing notes on the side, one for lesson plans, the other magic structures, runes, and equations of how to complete what plan is coming to mind.

As time passed I didn’t even realize what time it was till I felt a nudge, looking down and seeing Pura there. “Hi.” She said sweetly.

I smiled, stretching before ruffling her mane. “And Hi to you to.” I chuckled. “What is it Pura?”

“You’ve been working for a longtime.”

I sighed. “I know hunny. I got a job as a teacher at the school for those who dont have keyblades, so they can learn how to protect themselves just as well as those with keyblades. Guess I sort of got carried away, huh?” I said, smiling as I used my tail to lift her and set her on my lap.

“I’ll say.” I saw Scootaloo, closing the fridge as she took an Apple Pie from the fridge. “It’s already ten… in the morning… you worked all night.” She said, slithering back up the stairs, the bulge in her tail told me Tiara was still in there.

I blinked. “I… Did?”

Pura simply nodded. “The moms-now dads tried a screaming contest last night too. Don’t know why.” She said, hopping off my lap and getting herself some cereal.

My eyes went wide. “Do you remember what they were screaming about?” I asked, being careful in my wording.

“They weren’t arguing screaming, just more like, loud yelps, like when you stub your hoof into a rock or something.” She said.

“I’ll talk to them.” I said, piling up my now full planers and… HOLY CRAP?! Did I just complete an entire arch, world class spell in a single night?! … Huh,Twilight rubbed off on me more than expected… Shaking my head, I headed up to our Bedroom. Upon opening the door I saw… why do they all look like they are in pain? “Alright, what did you lump heads do?” I asked, leaning against the door frame with my arms crossed under my breasts.

“... We tried anal together.” They all said at once.

“.... and none of you bought Lube, did you?” I chuckled.

They didn’t bother answering.

I sighed and snapped my fingers, summoning a bottle of Lube and putting it in the drawer with our other toys. “There, for next time you all decided to do something blindly.” I smiled before wrapping myself around them all gently.

“Eh, could have been worse.” Blitz said. “So, done with your papers then?”

“Heh, mostly. I was kinda going crazy until Pura broke me out of it not long ago.” I chuckled nervously, rubbing the back of my head. “Even made a Archworld class spell for the kids safety while still allowing them to know the dangers of what I am teaching them.

“Neat. So, gonna be snowed in for three days… what are we gonna do?”

“Well, We could take the kids on a road trip through my realm. I haven't gone around to explore it myself yet, only creating three races before letting life work itself out.” I said.

“Hmm… Maybe something less… big.” Star said. “Why not a little game night?”

“Sure, its been a while… Besides, I got a message from the authors-I mean one of my family members saying of how the latest Smash Bros is finally out.” I said

“The what?” They all asked.

I gasped in horror. “The others I could understand but you Star… and you claim to be a gamer… NO MORE!” I shouted. “KIDS! TO THE GAMING ROOM! WE ARE HAVING OURSELVES A FIGHTING GAME TOURNAMENT!” I said before snapping, teleporting all of us in the room to the gaming room as I quickly insta-ordered what the message called a Switch and got the game… sweet, all characters unlocked already if I put on Family night mode.

The next nine hours Everyone was playing. Finally sore eyes and hunger made us stop as we took a long needed break...dang, my neck is sore. I went into the bathroom, splashing my face with cold water. That was fun… I dried myself, looking up and double taking… huh, thought I saw someone?

Damn, must be the lack of sleep getting to me… one way to check. ‘Did you two see anything through my eyes just now?”

”Nope.”

”I didn’t.”

Shrugging, I decided a good nap is what I needed. I was really tired, cause as soon as I hit the pillow I was out cold.

My Dream was different. I was human, again. Male, wearing a white shirt, brown shorts and black shoes. I was in Traverse town, right in front of the ‘world exit’ as the game referred those huge doors to.

“Weird, haven't dreamed being human in a while… heh, it’s almost strange being male now.” I chuckled before putting my hands in my pockets. “Now, lets see why BIo decided to make me dream about Traverse town.”

As I walked around I decided to head into Cid’s shop… I didn’t see Cid… I saw Zeke. He was sitting on one of the couches near the fireplace.

“Hey Zeke, long time to see.” I said, smiling as I pulled out a hand to give a small wave.

He didn’t show any sign of emotion, but he did speak. “What is it you truly fear?”

Weird. “Well, I guess I fear that I won't be there when those I care about need me, or worse, I will be there, but be unable to even make a difference to keep them safe.” I said honestly.

No reply, but he did vanish almost like a vine trop… okay… I jumped back the ladder to the moogle shop opening up and dropping. Okay… guess someone or thing wants me to go there.

I casually climbed it, chuckling of how I was finding it harder with legs than a tail before glancing around the moogle shop. “Alright, anyone?” Looking around I saw Ben, leaning against the door out. I climbed up and walked over. “Yo Ben, Any idea of what is going on here? Cause I’m getting flashbacks to KH one, the prologue.”

“Who do you hate most in your life?” He asked… oh… OH this is like that then… okay...

“To be honest, I can't truly find it in me to hate anyone. Life is finite. People make mistakes and everyone, Even Insanity and Psychopaths I would bet, Have a reason to be who they are. We are never born evil, it is how we handle actions that make us so. Besides, why waste energy on hatred when you can love?”

He vanished, the doors opening. I walked out and headed out to the next district. On the other side… The Foretellers were there. “Alright, let’s get the next question done with. Ask away kiddos.” I chuckled.

“What would you kill a beloved for?” They all asked at once… creepy.

“That question depends.” I said, careful with my wording. “However, I would rather give up everything, and fall upon my own blade than kill my own. My family, my people, all those who hold a place in my weak, determined heart have earned their place, and I would gladly die if it meant they wouldn't have to. However… If they have become a danger to themselves and to others…. If I had to and there was no other possible choice… I would put them to rest for THEIR peace, no one else's.”

They vanished, and I saw the doors to the Gizmo Shop open up down the way. I ran over, finding...Twilight… Twilight was at the Gizmo place’s doors. “Who do you consider yourself to be?” She asked.

I paused… Who am I really? “I guess… I guess I’m just me. I am A glitch, an Anomaly, something that has such a low chance of existing it shouldn't be really possible. I am a lover, a father and soon mother. I am a beloved Deity to those who worship me, as weird as it sounds coming out of my mouth. I am a brother/sister, a son/daughter, I guess You could say I consider myself Gray. I am Everything, because I am Me.”

She vanished. I entered. Walking to the exit door on the other side… I was met by Core… “What do you treasure most in life?” He asked.

God I feel like a dick hating him way back when. “I treasure all those whom I consider to be a part of my life. You, Unum, Zeke, Ben, My family, Most of Ponyville, My extended family with Cript, Oblivion and Oathkeeper, I would give up all mo power, all my being, everything, If it meant that all them can be free from the fate that they have been tied to. If it meant that they could live THEIR lives instead of lives forced by others. Heh, Hell, if I was erased from existence, even my very memory erased, I wouldn't mind, so long as all of them can live fulfilling lives.” I spoke, my hand hovering over where I know my heart rests.

He vanished. I exited, and to my left, I saw John there, leaning against the ladder up. “What do you seek in life?”

I chuckled. “If you had asked me that years ago, I would have no answer for you, But now I have one. I seek to make a world where my family can be happy, where we don't have to worry day after day on if my kids will be attacked on their way home from school. One where no one has to fear power, because everyone has it. Where people are the masters of their own fate, gods of destiny be damned.”

He vanished. Figuring where I need to go next, I climbed the ladder, and at the top, sitting on the edge were three people… Sora, Riku, and Kairi?

“Man, haven't seen you three since the games. Well, lay your deep Psychological question on me explaining my every motive to the puppet master here.” I chuckled.

I first walked up to Riku. “Why did you lie?” He asked me.

Huh? “Which lie? The lie about me being reborn from a human?” I asked

“About hating no one. You hate yourself. Because you were always too late, or not there, trying to get stronger and missing so much. You hate yourself, for not being what you THINK your loved ones wanted. You already were what they needed.”

I sighed. “To be fair, I wasn't thinking about myself… a common trend I guess. You’re right. I do hate myself for having too much focus on my training. I hate myself for never being there for my family before recent events forced it. I was always out, helping others and growing stronger, but never spending time with those who made getting stronger important. I may already be what they need, you’re right, but I am striving to be what they DESERVE.” I told him.

He smiled, giving me a nod as he summoned Way to Dawn. He then gave me the handle, offering it to me.

I looked at him quizzically before reaching down and taking the blade, holding it in my hand as I looked it over. “Always did enjoy the symbolism of your keyblade.” As I finished looking it over, I saw Riku was gone… I looked over at Sora and Kairi. I walked over to Kairi.

“Alright Kairi, Lay it on me princess.” I smiled softly.

“Could you live on, knowing someone you cared for died for you? Pointlessly in the end?” She asked.

I held my free hand, gripping my shirt over my heart. “It would hurt…. Gods, I would be in a funk for who knows how long… however… I would carry on… They would have died so that I can go on. If that is what they died for then it wasn't pointless until I make it so… Besides, If I gave up and took my life after someone did that for me, I would be leaving behind too many, and two graves would have to be dug instead of one. I won't put people I love through that pain, through that hopelessness and despair… what kind of parent would I be if I leave that kind off impression on my kids…”

She smiled, taking out her Keyblade, Destiny's Embrace, and gave it to me.

I took it in my other hand. “Heh… wish we ever got the chance to see the properties of your keyblade. Rest safe Kairi… If I can, I’ll make sure any with your heart are protected rather than experimented on. Same for your friends.” I said, smiling at her as she faded and vanished.

Lastly Sora. I walked over to him. Rather than just standing, I took a seat next to him. “Why… do you exist?” Sora asked.

“Heh, why do any of us… but with me?.... I don't know. I mean, I could blame the authors…. But even they have limited control on the world and how it works. I’m a random chance. In all reality I shouldn't exist. My mom said she was steril before she had me, and never had a kid since. I should have died many times as a child and teen, then the one dime I do die, I am reborn as a pony, being the twin that shouldn't exist in any possible reflection. I’m a glitch. There are apparently countless number of me, but I’m the only me born naturally and with my fate in my hands. I wield a X-Blade, I brought back Grey, I even married three of the most caring mates I have ever had the pleasure of being with, let alone having a chance with. I don’t know why I exist… but I’ll be damned if I waste it like I did my last life.”

He nodded, smiling as he handed me… a familiar blue ice cream pop. I placed the two keyblades beside me before taking the Sea salt Ice cream. “Thank you Sora… be safe, you deserve it.”

He vanished too, leaving his Kingdom Key embedded in the brick of where he sat. I sat there, eating the Ice Cream before getting up, and taking his Kingdom Key also. Once up, I saw someone down out by the fountain/mural where this worlds Keyhole is.

“Alright, lets see if you still got it.” I said, activating my flow motion to hop down, the three keyblades following me before landing by the fountain. “So who is it this time?”

As I landed… I knew who this was… Kexez… “Good dreams?” He asked.

“Alright, you know, for cryptic mind games to learn all you can about a person. So, let's cut to the chase. I don't think you are here for a booty call.” I chuckled

“Woah, woah woah!” He said,... out of character for him. “Look, I don’t got a lot of time. Just, listen. Alright?”

I sighed. “Fine, what is it. Your acting out of character.”

“Actually, I am acting in character. Look, when Kexez awoke from Purgatory, I am the one who greeted the world. I’m the imprint of Zeke’s thoughts and personality on our body. The Kexez you know is… like a new being. He is filled with hatred and wants justice for how Zeke wronged him. At least, that’s how he sees it.”

“That's… a little weird. So why tell me. Why set up all this?” I asked, the keyblades still floating beside me.

“I didn’t. They did.” He said, pointing at the three Keyblades behind me. “Look, I’m telling you because you were the only one I could locate after I escaped. The Kexez you know rarely let’s himself sleep, cause he knows it’s the only way I can escape his control. Without a soul, at first I was in control because the original mind was missing, so the imprint, me, was used as a replacement. That is, until the bodies natural instincts and functions mixed with our returning Psychopath blood. Then He was made, and quickly took over.”

“So, deep in Kexez, there is still Zeke, he just suppressed you?”

“Yes. Think of it like Terranort, or when Vanitas was possessing Ventus. It’s why he keeps self experimenting, tormenting his allies, filling his empty insides with darkness. I can’t control our Physical body anymore with all he has done, only our soul can now. This brings me back to why I am here. You know he turned the Trixie our soul is working with into like how we were/are. A living X-blade, right?”

“Yeah, felt it and Oath and Oblivion said it… it didn't feel me with anything but dread though.”

“And that feeling is right. Kexez is planning on making more like we are, and now Trixie is.”

“Why? I mean, he already has some of Zeke’s kids, why make more human X-Blades?” I asked

“It’s not about just making them. He doen’t want an army, he wants the power. Not for himself, but for Zeke.”

“Why, Zeke hates his power, even if he constantly gains more.” I asked then it clicked. “Zeke is Cript’s reflection… he is ment to house as much power as possible.”

“Exactly. Kexez wants to make Zeke powerful enough to-” He stopped talking, the both of us noticing the world was getting darker. “Shit, he found me. Look, don’t let Kexez find our heart! It’s the key to his plan. Now go!” He shouted, pushing me away with a blast of wind as I was suddenly being tossed around in an ocean.

‘Yup, Kh one opening movie vibes now.” I mentally groaned as I tried to look around before swimming up.

As I emerged above the water I looked around, finding myself surrounded by water all over. Slowly, I saw a statue begin to rise from the waters… that’s no statue. It was Zeke, bound by chains all over with his hands barely keeping a crown off his head.

“NO!” I roared, trying to go over to try and break the chains, or at least help keep the grown away. I… I know that crown. I’ve seen it in my dreams since I was a kid and ever since I created gray again, its become much more common. And all I know, is right know Zeke needs help. “You can fight it Zeke!” I shouted, my eyes flickering, unable to flash….thats a first.

I saw the chains tighten. Trying to pull his hands down and make that crown rest atop his head. Zeke was fighting… but it’s a losing battle. The chains, I saw, were being pulled by hands, hands I saw held those small blue dots Zeke’s DT told me mark Nexus… They forced this path on him.

Well then… My eyes burst with gray as dived at the hands, the keyblades still flowing around me as I swear, many more started to appear, a army of keyblades around me. “If Zeke’s fate is out of his hands, we’ll cut off the hands of those who hold him! For family!” I said preparing to attack the hands. I know I can't win against Nexus… but I’m not aiming to win, I’m aiming to distract and annoy long enough for the keyblades to free Zeke.

As I rushed in, from the water countless arms reached up, wrapped around me and dragging me back under the water. I struggled, shooting off grey everywhere… it did nothing. I reached up, trying to grab at Zeke, but I was too far under…

I gasped, waking up… I think… in a white void… Behind me was… a framilier door. “Well now, what do we have here.” That voice… I turned around… Truth...

“I don't remember doing Human Alchemy.” I said as I looked at him.

“You didn’t. The Nexus binds of fate threw you here, cause you were trying to break them away from their post.” He said, that wide, all teeth smile on his… ‘face’.

“Fate… hehehehe.” I started to laugh. “Even the Authors can’t control my fate, as much as Lancerot tries.”

It was Truth’s turn to laugh. “Hahaha. Nieve. Authors don’t controle fate, they write what happens, imagination is just the passing energy through the multiverse, and what they ‘see’ and ‘think of’ is all just imprints across the multiverse the brain picks up and thinks it’s it’s own invention. Nothing can be made up when everything is possibility and is in fact reality within another reality.”

“Oh that I know. 4th wall is a bitch.” I said, flipping off the monitor typing the words. “Still, I make my own fate, and no being who isn't content with the randomness that is life is ever going to control me.” I said, my eyes turning silver as once again the ethereal wings flowed out of my back.

“Heheheheh. And that is why I like you. So let me give you one bit of truth, something free of charge. Hehehehe.”

“You? Giving something free?... Honestly I’m the most surprising thing in this...room? Whatever, not that surprised. Lay it on me.”

“Heheheheheheh. You will bleed. You will feel agony. You will feel despair. You will taste failure. All for the sake of your friend Zeke to break him from his fated place. Hehehehehe. You can’t save him. Try, and try, and try… his and those like him, are beyond your help. Hehehehehe. That game of chess was won before you were even conceived my friend. Hehehehehe. Disagree all you want… I only speak truth, for it’s what I am.”

“Then I’ll make a new game, and this game, all the pieces on my side move for themselves, and forge their own moves. The knight will charge forward, not make an L. The Bishop will keep the soldiers who would normally die alive. The rooks will defend everyone, the king will not be defenceless and the queen will forge her own destiny. I will be the pawn, charging forward so that no one else will have to suffer.”

Truth laughed, and laughed. “Pitty. I guess ignorance is bliss after all. Listen well, lord of Grey. By this second Keyblade war’s end, you will learn, everything you do, for the others you so care for, can only go so far.”

“If I can’t save Zeke, Then I’ll be there to catch him when he falls. He is family. And I’m sure you've already learned much about family, and not just from a certain pair of brothers.” I said.

“Hehehe. Don’t go soft on me yet.” He said, suddenly those black tiny arms wrapped all around me. “I said I’d give you one bit of truth free of charge, and I just told you another. I’ll be taking my payment now.” He said. I began screaming in pain, a blue card like from Castle Oblivion began emerging from my heart. When it came out, it fell to the ground, and one of those tiny hands took it over to Truth, who laughed.

“W-What did you take…” I said, feeling everything burning as my eyes started flashing like mad.

“I figured you wouldn’t mind much. You don’t even use this name anymore. I took you true name, as far as you, and those connected to you will ever recall, you were always Eclipse. ____ _____ is a different being entirely to you.” He said, laughing as the arms dragged me into the now open door.

N-No...NO! I … I looked directly at truth… and smiled at him…. “You know Truth…. You just made a big mistake…. Because I will come for you. Family is everything to me… and You just fucked with their memories…. Tell me…. Ever Dance with the devil in the pale moonlight?”

“Hehehehe. Of course. Of course, my Devil made me dance… in their dungeon.” He said, the door closing with me in it.

All went black.

I woke up, feeling drained. Fuck… how long was I out… Strange… I feel like… I forgot something… Shit, that other Kexez’s warning… fuck where even is Zeke’s heart?

I banged my head, trying to remember. It… it was something important… I feel it in my heart that it was important… but why can't I remember. “Gods, of course I would have mindrape dreams.” I groaned… wait, did I dream of rape? Nope, bedsheets clean… good, that’s one kink I don’t think I’d like that much… unless it was role play.

I layed there before idly checking my assistant over my stats… wait why under Alias is there a line that is just straight up blank…. Weird…. I shook my head before continuing to abilities. There has got to be something to explain my eye flashes, maybe why Sora, Riku and Kairi wanted to help me out. Why had Kingdom Key, Way to Dawn and Destiny’s Embrace come for me? Why did the topic of fate… always spark a rage inside of me?

I shook my head… right now I want to figure out about Zeke’s heart… where is it.. And how to hide it, if it’s the key to Kexez’s plan...

“And all while planning a war on a changeling empress, carrying children and a wounded mare, and a planed recon and espionage plan for after my recovery from birth… Stars…. Truth is a bitch.” And why did that bring Insanity to have a silent rage? Too many questions that I’m not sure I want all the answers to.

So much going on. I’ll need help, no doubt in my mind about that… I know Cript could help me out in some form or way. But is that cheating? Well, it might help me more if I do it, but will it be riskey? Well, likely. I Sighed and hit him up on my assistant, sending a message. Better the devil you know.

He replied, saying he’d be over in a bit. I waited for a bit before he arrived, actually exiting the bathroom door, which was closed. I got a brief peek and I did not see my bathroom through the bathroom door. Rather it looked like a large hallway. He closed the door behind him. “You called?”

“Alright, besides a trippy dream where not only was I questioned by all my companions, and Kingdom key, Way to Dawn, and Destiny’s embrace, But something just feels wrong. And to make matters worse, Zeke was able to contact me. We CAN’T let him become whole, not yet.”

“Woah. Talk about lighting the candle at both ends. So, what doesn’t feel right then? Anything specific?”

“I feel like I can’t remember something, and my assistant as this weird blank space in my aliases for some god knows reason that is driving Insanity into a rage for some reason.”

“Ah… Hmm.” Cript said, looking me over, waving a hand over me as I felt him cast some spell over me. “Huh, yeah… I know what happened.”

“What was it? The last thing in the dream I remember was fighting these hands that were holding a chained Zeke, trying to force the crown on them when my eyes… their flashing started to go weird. I Don’t know what it means when they flash to begin with but that was just… strange.”

“Well, while I can tell you what happened I won’t. Sorry, but this is something you’ll have to remember on your own. As for those hands, that I can tell you about.”

“Of course.” I mutter “Alright, what were those hands, and why did the keyblades want me, and what for?”

“Those hands were the hands of Fate, specifically the ones Nexus controles. It’s how they make sure their ‘experiments’ turn out how they want them to. I imagine Zeke was covered with them, right?”

“Yeah… at first, when I looked at them, a few back off, one even turned to dust, but then they just… so many….” I said, clutching my head as my eyes went haywire again. “What is going on…”

“Everyone, well, actually just Most people have a single hand or two of fates to guide them. Typically it’s to ensure specific time-space related events take place, even finding one's true love. Nexus though made their own, and those hands force whoever they are grasping down their path Nexus planned for them. I myself have over thirty seven attached to me. Even though I did break away from what I was destined for, I did still become what I was built to be. All powerful. So the hands that keep that in check, stayed, while the others that would have made me a Nexus Puppet died off when that path was no longer available to me.”

“Then what is with my look… and why are my eyes going crazy right now? And what about my hands?”

“You don’t have any, well, none that are permanent. You might have had one or two just to ensure things like your marriage and life went along well, but nothing like what I and Zeke have to deal with. As for your eyes, your body is… adjusting. No, not to your pregnancy, to something else but it’s something you have to remember on your own. Certain trama, events, words or even noise might trigger it.”

“Of course.” I groaned. “I can’t catch a break… What about Zeke’s heart? We need to keep him from becoming whole, or he will become something he hates, the very thing that Nexus built him for.”

“True, but Remember, Zeke and I are reflections. We were built with two goals in mind, first off, becoming all powerful, which I am and Zeke can be. Secondly, we were built to end life, in untold amounts. However, that path is also no longer available to him.”

“Still, he will be forced to take the crown if we don’t stop it and find a work around first.”

“Hmm… Look, I’m not gonna sit and say you can do it, in fact, I hate the fact I’m gonna say that even if you pull it off, it won’t matter. Zeke would either take the crown soon as Kexez wants him to, or later on of his own volition. He and I are too much alike, if he has too, he’ll take the crown and all that come with it, for the safety of others.”

“So… it’s hopeless.. I… I can't accept that… I can't.” I said, taking a seat.

“Look, While the fact is, Zeke will take this Crown, what he hates about the power he will get is something he and I have in common. Pure Depression. Something he doesn’t want. He and I take thrills from combat, but taking that power, well, he and I could give a trilling fight, the end result might be… risky just for some excitement. While in the end you can’t stop him from taking the crown, you can keep him positive. Remind him of his family, his kids, you guys, and when this is all over a whole literal infinite world of exploration and I won’t even really know. Imagine SaO met Minecraft then throw in season two into that mix while you are at it.”

“That's… kinda crazy.” I admitted “Just my style I suppose.”

“That’s my point. You see, a fundamental problem with each race having it’s own world, even multiple races sharing a world, is that despite they share it, they are so fucking self centered. The only times these things didn’t matter was before the world became so complicated. I don’t expect things to change and happen overnight, but I know it will be a step in the right path if the world is made big for all inhabitants, so stupid things like borders, race, ideology and culture become secondary compared to the vast, interesting in fanit world of mystery.”

“True… but that won’t stop bad apples from ruining the paradise you are imagining.”

“True, but that’s what the kids, you, your kids, will be doing. This world while amazing and endless will have many evils and bad people in it, so in the early years I imagine Heros will popping up to battle the bad, while Evil can never really be destroyed it can be evened out. Eventually those who are bad will realize that an endless world is just far too big for one person, or even a mass group of them to conquer, so most likely they will end up with their own cities they will rule where someday a hero will come along and end them or it just becomes like any other city.”

“I hope it works out…” I sighed. “Anyways, any clue about why Kingdom Key, Way to dawn, and Destiny’s embrace in the forms of Sora, Riku, and Kairi came to me and asked questions?”

“It’s a means for them to determine the kind of person you are.”

“But… why? What would warrant them coming before me, let alone my friends?”

“Those weren’t your friends, just illusions crafted by your heart. You see, there is much more to being a Keyblade Master that has been lost knowledge for far longer than you can imagine. Let’s just call that step one. As for why those three, well, Way to Dawn and Kingdom Key hold close ties to Kingdom Hearts, and Destiny's Embrace is heavily tied to fate. Those three only ever are together if there’s a big tragedy in your future… well then that explains it I guess.”

“.....Well fuck me sideways.” I groaned. “At least they had the courtesy to befriend me before I got this news.”

“Yeah… Well then, since you need the help and have little means to do what you need to do, care for some of my own self made life hacks?”

“Sure, why not?” I sighed “All this stress can’t be good for the kids.”

“Perfect. Now, first off I’ll be giving you an ability I gave to Ben already. He’s made great use of it. Starfish Clones.”

“So… Judging from the name… cut a piece off and it makes a clone?”

“Yes. The higher rank you make it, the less DNA is needed. I’ll be giving you the Maxed version so you don’t have to lose and regrow a limb, just drip some blood.” Cript said, holding out a hand for me. With a tired sigh i took his hand, knowing the feeling to come with the transfer of ability.

Thankfully it didn’t hurt, but did leave my arm numb for a bit. “The Starfish clones are Omnipresent with you. This means everything they do, see, say, and experience you govern, remember, and feel as they did. You can also basically take full control of them since they are you and you all share the same mind regardless. Anything you can do, they will also be able to do.”

“Please tell me they wont be pregnant as well..” I said, not wanting clones of nine kids.

“No, that’s all in/on you. I will be making you two clones. One you will be in control of and come with me for special training and work, you. Or your primary/pregnant body will stay here, enjoy housewife stuff and such, and the second copy will World Travel, gain experiences and such you don’t have. Normally I’d make one's for all your… spouses but given you don’t want more kids at the moment you’ll stay here while also piloting your copies who will be training, their bodies while expendable you will still feel the pain, so be careful, you can cut your connection to them if needed to not feel what they do, just in case they are gonna.. Kick the bucket painfully. Since they won’t be bearing kids or keeping a damaged mare safe within them, you don’t have to worry too much about unleashing.”

I nodded before pricking my finger and trying to make three clones, trying to focus on the ability. The drop of blood that came out split into two, and they hit the floor, and from them grew two of me. “Good. Welp, send one off, the other trains with me. This will also give you an edge for when something comes up and now, you can send the one out and traveling to deal with it.”

“Actually I was going to have one monitor and perform my active duties as a god while the other goes with you, leaving me to focus on my personal life.” I said, the other two nodding along… creepy.

“Well that works too. If something comes up tell me with the copy so I can send them off then get them back after, kay?”

“Got it… and you’re going to use that one to be used for your sabotage mission, aren't you?” I asked.

“No, training. You’ll be facing a very evil Keyblade Master, you wanna win, right?”

“Well duh.” I said. “I don't want to lose and end up leaving my family behind.”

“Then no time for Suicide missions. Come on, your hell begins now.” Cript said, opening up a portal that a clone of mine followed.

Poor sod… me…. Whatever.

I turned to the other me. “You know what to do… and try not to break the fourth wall too much around them. Don't want them all to break.”

“I’m you. No promises.” I told myself, opening up a Grey portal and entering it.

“And yet I know they would say that, damn it I’ve gotted predictable.” I groaned.

My clone, er, me? Wow, feels like I am here, but I’m also home… and in my realm… woah this is metta as all fuck. “Focus.” Cript said, gaining my attention. We were in a desert. “You ready?”

“Yeah, just getting used to focusing on multiple perceptions at once.” I replied.

“It will all become second nature to you in no time. Now, first order of business. I need you to summon Oath and Oblivion for me.”

I nodded and summoned the two “You two ready for some training?”

“Now then, first things first. You’ve summoned Oath and Oblivion for a large portion of your life, right?”

“Well yeah. From the moment my magic was strong enough to hold them I’ve had them and been using them. They are like family to me.”I replied.

“Right, but have you use them properly?”

“I couldn’t tell you. I’ve used them to play off their respective strengths, and combining them to create one solid unit, but other than that I have no clue.”

“You know what they can do together, on the surface. To understand them truly, you have to use one or the other only at a time. Your fighting style is solely based on dual wielder, but in your up and coming fight you can only use Oath, so you’ll be at a disadvantage.”

“Yeah, yeah you’re right as usual.” I sighed, looking down at my two lifetime companions.

“Since Oath is who you will be fighting with, use her first.” Cript said, summoning his Soulblade/Keyblade. “Come at me. I’ll just be blocking, not countering. You’ll need to learn what stance of single blade fighting suits you.”

I nodded, unsummoning Oblivion before trying different grip styles, trying to find one that feels comfortable. I ended up trying out a one handed style, though it felt weird not having another blade in my free hand. “Now then, try and strike.” I nodded before swinging oath as I would normally because fuck muscle memory.

Cript blocked with ease. “Remember, one handed. You’ll have to retrain your body so it doesn't immediately follow muscle memory.”

I groaned and nodded. “This is going to be a bitch and a half, isnt it?”

“Yup.” Cript said, blocking another strike of mine. “If it helps, hold Oath with both hands, you’ll deliver more power in your swings and it should help transition you if you have it in both hands then.”

I looked at Oath long and hard before getting and idea, and grinning. “Oh I think i have a plan of how to do it now. And the best part? So crazy it just might work.” I said before tossing oath up and catching her in my tail, the tip wrapping tightly around the handle as my dominate hand summoned the shield Momma Gleaming gave me. “Why break my muscle memory when I can just make a new one?”

“Eh, whatever helps.” Crips said, preparing to block. “Just remember, it’s up to you what you want to learn.”

I nodded before preparing and attempting to do a swift uppercut strike with oath before following through with another downward strike.

Cript blocked the Uppercut, and when I tried to hit with my shield he moved, making me hit my own tail… OUCH!!!! “Damn, gonna be one of those training sessions.” I mumbled to myself.

“Remember, this is to teach you how to one handed/one weapon fight. Stray from what I’m trying to teach and you will be suffering more than you have to.”

I took a breath and nodded, getting into my self made stance again, my shield ready to block or strike as needed and my now bladed tail ready to crack like a whip. “Not going to learn if we talk all day.”

Sighing, Cript raised his blade. I raised my shield and… collapsed. A deep, long pain went from my neck to the tip of my tail. When I looked… I was almost sliced open, a deep cut going from just below my neck to the end of my tail. “I told you, don’t stray.” Cript said, walking up to me. He kicked me on my back, placing the tip of his Keyblade to my neck as he kneeled down, applying pressure. “You’ll be training with only a Keyblade. No shields, no trying your own style. Maybe your military could never break you, but if you don’t obey what I am teaching, I’ll break you, both mentally, and Physically.” He said, the look in his eyes… terrified me. I’ve never seen him like this… serious…

I hid my fear, but still unsummoned the shield and held oath in my hand. “Fine fine, Don’t want the backlash to affect the other clones and in turn affect the kids.” I said, playing it off despite Oath feeling my fear.

“Don’t bother playing tough. You forget, I’m in control of my Psychopath blood. I can feel you fear. It’s understandably deep right now. I don’t like being tough, but if you don’t take what I’m teaching you as serious as I am, I can guarantee you, you’ll lose this coming fight, and war. Not all your Grey could even save you. Understood?”

“Fine… But if I’m going to train like this, should I also hone my Insanity? I haven't even tapped into it beyond the fourth wall since I tamed it. Or should that wait for later?”

“In time. For now, the basics.” Cript said, taking his Keyblade off my neck as the pain vanished. Looking again… the wound was gone. “As punishment, ten shouldn't cross slashes, both hands on Oath, and you’re just hitting the air.”

I sighed and griped Oath with two hands. It felt… wrong. Like I was bastardizing the style that made me me… but I can’t complain really. Cript is teaching me something that I would have never had the chance to learn, something I need to know if I want to take down that bitch who tormented Chisy and Oblivion. So I began my cross slashes, knowing I’m not doing them fully right but trying again and again.

By the time it was over, two full days had passed, at least I think. Two days back home anyway, sun here never set at all. When I finished I dropped Oath and fell. Crap, I’m more sore than I imagined. “Up and atem Eclipse.” Cript said. He watched me the whole time.

I grunted and forced myself up. I found out about halfway through I was unconsciously boosting myself and sealed off all powers boosting me from this clone. And had been forced to restart from the beginning…. fun.

“Now, raise your dominant hand.”

“Well.. I’m ambidextrous… sooo.” I said, raising my right hand.

“Good, that makes this easier.” Cript said, snapping his fingers as I changed… I was a pony again. Male too, given the,er, feel I was missing for a while already. “You, born as a unicorn relies heavily on your magic to swing and block, but you might not have that option. For this exercise, you’ll be in your pony form to start. Take Oath in your teeth, and you’ll practice attacking with it in your teeths grip.”

I sighed. “I promise to clean you later Oath.” I said before using my tail to place and hold her in my mouth.

“Now, this will make your neck sore, more so than your arms since these will be muscles you’ve never used. To start, fifteen basic swings across.”

I nodded and started to swing and- OH FUCKING GOD! This… is gonna suck.

“Wow… not even one and you had a cramp. Come on, your Aj does three hundred before she breaks a sweat. You wanna have her gloat on you for that?”

I sent him a glare before calming myself, Insanity being one thing I couldn't suppress its making me more agitated. Once I had calmed down I started again, ignoring the cramp, simply gripping Oath harder through the pain.

When the fifteen were done my head was bobbing like a bobble head. “Good. Fifteen more.”

I continued, keeping my Insanity under wraps through keeping in mind why I am doing this, keeping the goal in mind.

“Good.” Cript said when I finished the other- Yeah! Oath got… heavy. I looked, and Cript hung a twenty pound weight to her tip by a rope. “Fifteen more.”

Fan fucking tastic. I Grunted and continued, the extra weight making the attacks slower and the recovery from said attack harder.

“Keep going.”

I continued, and continued for I don’t know how long. Let me tell you, being a normal unicorn again, with none of my natural or given powers enhancing me…. It sucks. I remember flowing on the battlefield, now here i was struggling to swing a barely weighted keyblade.

“Stop.” Cript said, and I did. “Now, change direction, wide swing leading to an upward cut. Go.”

I grunted in acknowledgment before listening, the insanity trying to talk ’Master, heh, come on. You never play with me any more. And now here you are, un able to be rid of me, but refusing to use the tool at your disposal.’

‘Shut up. I need to do this.’

’Oh now where was it I heard that before… oh right! When you abandoned your family for your training’

‘I haven't abandoned them, I’m still with them right now.’

’Yet you continue to work, and try, but not go full out… oh come one master… you can't keep a animal caged forever~’

‘I’ll find a way if you don't shut up.’ I mentally growled, my eyes fierce as I took my swings.

“Arguing?” Cript asked.

“You could say that.” I said through the grip as I kept up my swings.

“Always have that much trouble?”

“Nope. Sealed everything so I am actually training, not relying on powers. Notices weakness. Trying to be tempting.” I said, keeping it short and simple so to focus more on training.

“So oblivious aren’t you.” Cript said, walking over in front of me and kneeling down to my eye level. “Eclipse, through all your training, through all your past, what is the one, single thing you are doing here, you never did before?”

“Be uptight and serious?” I said, thinking back.

“Close. You’re taking orders for a superior.” He stated. “You never learned DIscipline, and as such, deprived yourself of the ability to learn to control your Insanity, your power levels, and your effectiveness in combat. Your strong, your tactical, but you lack discipline. If you can’t control your own actions and learn to obey, how can you hope to control those demons inside you?”

“I did fine before now. Hell, I was able to collar Insanity, and while not nearly as potent as Psychopath, it is basically a little brother looking for recognition, through any means possible.”

“Yes, but if you had the discipline you still lack, you wouldn't have to collar it back into submission, it would listen to you, obey you. Until you yourself learn discipline, you can never utilize that power. While dark, it has its benefits.”

I sighed. “How? You are literally the only being I can take seriously… hell I bet even if fucking Nexus was in front of me, I’d laugh in their face just in spite of them. Even when Zeke becomes almighty, I still won't take him 100 % seriously. You are the only one that can do that to me, make it so I ditch the jokes and realize its game time.”

“Yes. But there inlies the issue. You can’t take anyone seriously, save for me. Know why that is?”

“Because I’m a powerful 4th wall breaker that honestly before and even during the beginning of my rebirth didn't really care?” I guessed

“And why did you never care?”

“Because In my past life, nothing gave me a reason to. I was just a drone, maybe even less than that, and in this life, it was Twilight that made me start to care, but by then I was already so powerful that I was bored. How many ten year olds do you know can take out an entire army of guards alone, who aren't a part of your or Zeke’s family?”

Sighing, Cript snatched Oath from me, and swing it, the blade missing me, but the weight slamming my jaw broken. I hit the floor. “You never cared because you never gave yourself a reason to care. Think Eclipse, how many like you were there in that Orphanage when you left? How many moved around through the forstercare systems, put into the care of irresponsible people only in it for the money? You know that suffering, and yet what did you do? Nothing. You kept to yourself, you had choices! You had chances to help them time, and time again and you did nothing, by choice! All because of your past, losing your mother. You were not the only one in those homes who lost your mother, you knew that, but you did not care. Why? Because you were Selfish!

“And when the Mayan event came and your God took you away, you got the family you never had, and what did you do? You learned to care, for them only! You saw it in Canterlot, but you still did nothing! You were given a second chance at childhood and life, and you wasted it, keeping your selfish mentality. When you came out with your powers, what did you do? You devoted yourself to being you sisters Body Guard, when you should have been better honing your skills, taking out the real threats you KNEW existed, but you didn’t care. And when REAL danger came it way, what happened? You got your ass kicked over, and over, and OVER! And when you finally stopped keeping your head up your ass only recently, then did you finally achieve victories. You never gave yourself a greater purpose. Well let me tell you Eclipse, do you know how many times when I lost my ability to die I tried! I began fighting just to hope I’d die! But when I met Lyra, when I learned to love, I learned I wanted to fight to protect. To save. Not just her, not just those I cared for, but for everyone. Strangers, random people. Background, creed, color, whatever does not matter. I wanted to save them all, even the bad guys, and damn it I did! I carry the weight of every living thing in Creation on my shoulders Eclipse, how many do you claim to carry?! Now are you gonna lay there and wallow in your own missed opportunities and potential, or are you gonna take Oath from me, and man up, and fight for EVERYONE.” He finished, raising Oath at me.

I looked up to him. “You can’t save everyone.” But then I grinned despite my broken jaw and wounded pride, my eye flashing as I heard a distant, faint scream. “But we can damn well try.” I said, taking the blade.

Cript smiled at me, that look… I’d never seen it before, but I knew what it was… Pride. “And even those who have fallen, I’ve brought them home. Save everyone, even the dead. That is my moto. Now then, are you a renegade, or a soldier!”

I chuckled, my eyes flashing again. “Why not both?”

Cript laughed. “Now that’s what I want to hear. Are you a ready to relearn, everything you thought you knew about yourself? Learn to hate yourself so much, you want to hang yourself before you even start rebuilding yourself?”

“Well, you are your own worst enemy after all. Besides, I’ve prided myself in my adaptability. And sometimes, to adapt, you must ditch, everything.” One, last bright flash before my eyes straight up glowed, hundreds of faint screams filling my ears. “I am ready, if you are willing to guide me.”

“I am. And when we are done here, you won’t need a leash for you Insanity, you’ll be ordering it, and it will listen without hesitation. You ready?”

“Heh, I think we both know I was created ready, weak, fragile heart be damned.” I said, allowing my heart to shine with its gray before sealing it back up.

“Heh, we’ll see how long it takes before you opinion on that changes.”

I Can't Win Them All.

View Online

I spent the good part of the morning next to the fireplace. It was Fluttershy/Butterscotch’s addition and it was nice with the snow in. With not much to do at the moment I was just looking over my papers and figuring out my class schedule and activities to do.

“Lets see… prep period till nine…. Two hour block schedules…. A side of disappointment.” I said as I grimaced at the note I made for myself, explaining what i could and could not do in the class. “I swear they are trying to raise a generation of wimps…”

As I went over the notes I heard Scoot’s call me. “Mom...Dad? Blech! One of your friends is here… I think?”

“One moment Scoots!” I called out as I reorganized my papers, straightened my shirt and slithered on over to the door. Wonder which friend it was, with it still being snowed in and all.

Eclipsa slithered down the stairs of her home, and saw something unexpected. Trixie. Well, Zeke, borrowing his reflections Trixie to move and summon the X-blade with. “You… What in the nine floors of heck?” Zeke asked.

“Oh, hey Zeke.” Eclipsa said nonchalantly as she slithered on over. “How’s it been cuz?”

“Well… Kexez made Trixie like I was.” They said, summoning four different Keyblades floating behind them. “Same abilities so far.”

“Oh… well… thats a thing.” He… she said as she summoned her own Keyblades, Oblivion and Oathkeeper looking different than last time. “We upgraded ourselves… in more than one way.”

“I know. I didn’t even know it could be repeated. Oh, you got them upgraded? Nice. Well, I came here because X managed to help me figure some things out. First off, where is your Reflections Trixie?”

“....Why?” Eclipsa asked.

“Because X explained to me what he believed Kexez will be planning, he wants, or rather, needs twenty people or beings with powerful balanced hearts that equal mine, before it became part of my whole living X-blade stick. All of Trixie’s reflections are one of these twenty he needs, but he also needs all their reflections, and while there are a FUCK ton, X did say there are spells he can use to drag them to himself. Knowing him though, he will go after the ones he knows he can gloat at us over. So that includes your Trixie.”

Eclipsa signed before closing her eyes and a… really weird feeling coming off her as gray smoke leaked from her eyes. “Give me a moment… narrowing down one mare’s reflection is a pain…..” It was done, thankfully, as the mare in question was located in Vanhoover at the moment. Sadly, Eclipsa also detected Kexez’s experiments roaming the same city. “Because fuck simplicity.” was her only response before summoning and slurping on a smoothie and calming down.

“So what’s the issue?”

“Oh just Kexez already has some experiments where Trixie is, and the pregnancy not helping my…. Frustrations.” She said before taking another sip and sighing. “Paopu Fruit, oh how I love you.”

“...Okay… Not gonna ask, so I guess I’m going Solo for this.”

“Oh no you don’t!” She said seriously. “Zeke, we are family for gods sake. You need to stop thinking you can take on everything alone. I’m coming with, if nothing else than to be a recognizable face to Trixie, rather than herself.”

“I’m pretty sure she’d recognise my face more than yours?” Zeke chuckled.

“Yeah, and freak out that a copy of her is trying to take her somewhere.” Eclipsa said, shaking her head. “Boys… heh… anyways, I’m coming with Zeke.” She said before pulling out a pin and pricking her finger, letting a drop of blood fall to the floor.

Zeke watched as a full body clone of Eclipsa grew from the drop of blood. “Okay… You been training under Cript, haven’t you?”

The pregnant Eclipsa’s face grew serious, so serious it was unnerving seeing on her face. “Anything to protect my family, and all those who look at me as a guardian. I’ve become so much stronger than the Eclipse that couldn’t even last a single fight, and I haven't lost sight on what I have this power for.” She said, her eyes turning Silver before Zeke’s eyes.

“... Who are you and where is the idiot I call my cousin?”

“Heh… He grew, and is currently learning the meaning of discipline.”

“You? Discipline?”

“I know right?” She chuckled.

“Well, off we go.” Zeke said, opening a DTL behind them. “You can lead us to Trixie, right?”

“Not with a DTL… not anymore.” She said before opening a gray version of a corridor. “Come on, this way.”

“...Show off.” Zeke muttered, closing his as they entered the DTG.

Once on the other side, the two were atop a skyscraper…. And surrounded by Armored Neoshadows. “Your landing sucks.” Zeke said, summoning two Master Keepers.

“Blow me.” Eclipsa said, summoning Oath and Oblivion before forming them into… a X-blade and summoning a shield into her other hand.

“I believe that’s more my shtick.” Zeke said, throwing both Master Keepers into Fire Raides, taking out four of the enemies.

“Firaga.” Eclipsa said, forming a gray… that was a Firaga? It looked like a mega flare before firing it at a group and quickly slithering in, slashing once at a strangler who tried to escape the blast.

“Nice, new spell?” Zeke asked, throwing a slash of light at five more.

“Nope, just a Firaga with a little something added.” Eclipsa said, a gray droplet being flicked off his blade and almost taking out the rooftop.

“Fuck! You trying to blow up the city! If you don’t cap your power you’ll blow up the whole damn Reflection!” Zeke shouted.

“Still learning my own strength! Not my fault that that was a drop in an endless ocean!” She grumbled pouting almost cutely if it wasn't his cousin.

The armored enemies were quickly dealt with and this game Eclipsa time to relocate Trixie. “Of course she is in one of the big cities….”

“Doubt she has a performance. Maybe she has a place here?” Zeke offered. “My Trixie used to have a place in this same city, her mom lived here. Might be a similar situation?”

“Maybe…. Got a lead…. She is praying for anyone to help her….” Eclipsa said, her voice soft and motherly suddenly.

“Oh fuck…”

“One moment… Here is the address, but dont come in until I tell you.” Eclipsa said seriously before handing Zeke a GPS with a location marked before Her body turned into Pure energy, one that Zeke has never seen before before disappearing.

“...The heck? Why leave me out of this?” Zeke asked.

Meanwhile, Eclipsa was just outside the apparent apartment Trixie was in. From the outside it looked normal, but Eclipsa knew better. Turning herself invisible, she listened to and for the prair.

There was nothing, which was worrying.

Using Oath, she tapped the lock on the door, it clicking open immediately as she slowly opened the door. The first room of this place was the Living room/kitchen. The walls were blank, save for some hooks, which held Trixie’s cape and hat respectively. The table held a large bag of bits, a few bills, and a travel map with marked locations. The couch was large, and very old, the TV was the only new looking thing in the apartment, as even the fridge was something out of earth's early years and there was no microwave to be found.

‘Shit… where is she…’ Eclipsa thought as she looked around the apartment, trying to find her. That prair… it needed to be fulfilled

The only other area was a small hallway with three doors. Opening the first, it was a simple closet filled with spare fireworks and items for performing acts on stage. The second door was the bathroom. Clean and well stocked. That left the Bedroom… Opening it slowly, Eclipsa saw the inside… and dropped her invisibility… Written above the small bed against the wall, on the wall written in pure darkness was ‘Oh, so close.’ The words mocking her… Pulsating in their form.

“Damn him... “ She said, Oath and Oblivion disbanding themselves before Eclipsa could do anything rash. Gray flowed off Eclipsa in waves from how hard she gripped her hands.

Meanwhile, with Zeke, they just were standing around. “Seriously, the hell?” They kept pouting, bearly reacting in time to deflect the incoming Keyblades. “Fuck!!” They yelled, DTD’s throwing them out like bullets. It was a split second action before A smaller DTD appeared below and just in front of Zeke on the ground, And Kexez jumped out, thrusting into Trixie’s heart… a X-blade, it’s design like Star Seeker, with with a framilier cap and cape worn at the blades tip and body. “Kex- F-fUck!”

The X-blade flowed into their heart, and Zeke felt it become his, the person it was, the Trixie they were after, merge with his. “Heheh. Come on, I thought you were smarter than that?” Kexez mocked as Zeke lost consciousness.”

“Stopga.” was the last thing Zeke heard, the form of a very pissed Eclipsa standing in a eerily calm manner on top of the roof, X-Blade pointed to the sky.

“Now now, you don’t want to be rash here.” Kexez spoke. “The building we are on houses over two hundred ponies, sixty of which are foals. You hit me, and well, I didn’t just send my little worker bees here to fetch her Reflection.”

“Mind yourself that Overconfidence does not become your undoing.” Eclipsa said in a dead tone

“I’m aware, hehehehe. I’ll be counting on it.” They said, opening a DTD under them, falling into it as it closed once they were all gone.

Eclipsa walked over to the still form of Zeke, time still stopped. “It may be Zeke’s fate to gain power, but it isn't Trixie’s.” She said, her eyes glowing before she grabbed the handle of the frozen, fusing X-blade. “I need you to trust me…. It’ll hurt. It’ll be painful. But you will still be your own person, not forced to be another's. Will you allow me?” I asked the keyblade.

There wasn’t a response. Eclipsa looking up as the Stop spell was gonna wear off soon. “Forgive me, all of you.” She said before flexing her divine abilities, eyes glowing brightly as she again swore she heard thousands of distant screams.

As she grabbed hold of the Trixie X-blade, the screams went from echos in her head… to full on high pitched ones hitting her ears. As she tried to yank it out, suddenly, those hands of fate flew out of Zeke, grabbing Eclipsa and removing her while others began dragging the Trixie X-blade deeper into them.

“ENOUGH!” She yelled, startled as a few suddenly combusted, sadly just to be replaced with others. “You will not hold me back! I own my own fate, and I refuse to allow someone to enforce a different fate to an innocent!” She cried, the hands burning at a faster rate, a tug of war of sorts going on between the goddess and fate itself.

The more hands Eclipsa burned off the more kept coming, the standstill seeming unbreakable… Until she saw something. Standing behind Zeke, was this…. Silhouette… one of a man, all white with a black shadowy outline. The only feature of them Eclipsa made out, was that smile… that smile… She flinched, the hands taking the chance, and threw her off the building, and the Trixie X-blade finishing entering Zeke.

Eclipsa, for her part, focused solely not on Zeke, but on the Silhouette figure smiling at her as she fell off the buildings edge… Time seemed to slow to a still as she looked at them, reading those near invisible lips. “What’s your name?” She read off those lips, the figure laughing as time returned to normal, Eclipsa catching herself on a window pane before reaching too far down the buildings edge.

“Damn… damn it.” She said.

“Swear!” Confused, Eclipsa looked in the window, seeing a small foal playing with toy blocks in their bedroom looking back at her.

Eclipsa smiled and giggled, handing the kid a small pouch with ten bits. “Put that into a swear jar for me, will you?” She said before launching herself straight back up to the roof.

Once there, that figure was absent, and Zeke/Trixie was laying on the floor. “Zeke!” She cried out, rushing over before laying their head on her lap. “Come on Cuz… Wake up.”

“...Eclipse?” Zeke spoke.

“Know any other smartass 4th wall breakers you call family?”

Rather than a vocal reply, Zeke slapped her. “Use that spell on me again, and I’ll skin you…” They muttered, falling back into slumber. Zeke HATED the Stop spells with a burning fury.

With a chuckle, Eclipsa picked him up and swallowed him. “Time to head home…”

Hours later, Zeke awoke inside the belly of his cousin… and punched the inside walls so hard, the bulds hit, and broke down the nearby wall, and gave Eclipsa severe nausea. And obvious stomach cramps. Needless to say, Zeke was out fast. “Fucking hell, bad Enough that was Unum’s number eighty eight fetish... “ They groaned, cleaning off the saliva and stomach juices from their body. Eclipsa was nearby, throwing up still from the stomach pains Zeke caused.

“What the -umgh- Fuck man? That stomach heals people. Hell my main body is holding a mare in critical condition in there!”

“I hate tight spaces. Kinda runs in the family, getting corners typically ment death for the Ventrals in the past… anyway, so that time unconscious gave time time to have a bit of a headcount, with X’s help.”

“Great…. Fuck…. I don’t hate anyone but damn it if Kexez is really making it hard.”

“He’s taking advantage that his face is, well, mine, using your good memories of ours as well as him being my body, using that as another card to escape damage since us being apart is a bad thing. He’s using all he can over us to play the game his way… So, you even wanna know how many Trixies were in that Trixie X-blade that’s now literally this body.”

“Yes… I… I need to know how many soul I need to work towards saving.”

“Well, I lost count at five hundred… but X did a proper count… Literally fucking all of them. He knew who to get and how to go about it, he left one out… to show off.”

“No… to demoralize. There is a difference.” Eclipsa said hard.

“Either way it worked. He’s showing that even though he is at a disadvantage, he can win… What’s the most fucked up is that that’s my philosophy. Using my own ideals against me… irony sucks…”

Eclipsa closed her eyes. “I almost freed them… the Trixies. We were at a standstill… then something distracted me for less than a moment, and we were overwhelmed. It isn’t their fate to be a source of power, yet the fates decided fuck their own rules because they apparently want you to hold more power.”

“Any reason given?”

“Heh… couldn’t hear them over their screams as thousands of hands burned…. But they were endless…. It was a standstill as I said, a swarm of ants running into the fire… only to eventually smother it.”

“Damn. Well, whatever that did, I’ll have to be careful. Not sure how much more juice my attacks will hold now… Why did you make me stay behind?”

Eclipsa sighed “Because I don't want you to freak out. Zeke, I am a God, or Goddess, really I have no gender anymore so it doesn't matter what you call it. I didn't want you to freak out about it, ask why I would go that far, or even how I did it.” She said, never once opening her eyes. “I even have a entire planet that worships me, and a few others slowly working up to that. And Entire realm, not reflection, Realm of my own… you really think I would have wanted you to know that? After so long of you having similar strength and hating every second of it?”

“....First off, you are an idiot to think I’d reflect that hate on you, secondly, I hate that I became that strong… and now, most likely just got stronger.”

“I know… and I’m sorry… I was just… I didn’t to lose a family member over the fact that I wanted to protect everyone.”

“That’s admirable. I don’t hate this level of power so long as the right people have it, I just hate that I’m acquiring it… My whole life, I’ve been both feared and respected, put up on a pedestal like a living god, all because of my eye color and my family. I was expected to be the strongest, deadliest criminal my family ever birthed, everything I did came naturally, perfection was… my norm… and I hated it. I wanted to fail, I wanted to… make it all stop. When I got the X-blade, I asked for it as a joke. So, when X told me what having him ment and how much power I truly had… I about snapped. I capped myself, and every battle I lost, against Core, against whoever… When I lost… I was happy, even when Core cut my legs off I was happy. Cause for once… I was weak, nothing special… I hate being special to others… and now, seems fate even finds me special…”

Eclipsa cleared her throat to keep from revealing something. “Yeah well… While You are tied to fate, Fate burns around me. Hell, even now I am hearing faint eco’s of screams just from being around you, heh, don't think the hands of fate like me much.”

“Somehow that’s not that comforting.” Zeke sighed. “Well, let's rest up a bit, X already gave me the location of someone who Kexez will be after… This time let ME open the portal and make the plans… cause your backfired…”

“No plan survives contact, so why have one?” Eclipsa chuckled

“Because unlike you, I know how Kexez will operate. That ambush when we came out, tactical training my uncle, you dad, taught me on a trip to China where… er, he um… ‘supplied’ some certain blueprints to them. While there they taught me some ambush techniques, that was on of them. He prepared an ambush for entryways and kept the building Trixie’s place was in field with his hidden ambush to have a card over you, another thing I learned from them.”

Eclipsa sighed. “Fine, lets get this over with then. Kexez is really starting to piss me off, pretty hard thing to do without fucking with my people directly.”

“Now you know why I rarely did anything.” Zeke said, standing up and drying off the last area of saliva. “Crap, this stuff just gets everywhere. We’ll leave in a few, right now it seems all those Trixies that came from worlds that were… less that a caring Equestria, Kexez also made their weapons Keyblades, and I wanna sort through some… Wait a second, no way in hell!” Zeke said, raising a hand as a handgun appeared… like a Keyblade would. “Keyblade GUNS?! Okay… is it wrong to be less mad at him now?”

“Oh yeah, I remember seeing Wolf forge a few of those. New Keyblades are being born more and more as different weapons, sometimes even armor.” Eclipsa said in recognition.

“Oh check this out!” Zeke saud, disbanding the key-gun-blade and summoning… a three barreled minigun. “Fuck the hell yes…”

“.....Sasha?” Eclipse said in wonder at the very familiar gun, only add trixie designs over it.

“Okay, less mad at the D-bag, gonna go see if these need to reload.”

“Meh, gives me a chance to show off my gun skills Josh taught me… or more accurately, honed for me.”

After a trip to the firing range, Zeke and Eclipsa learned these unique Keyblade Guns do not need to be reloaded, and can even fire off spells as fast as they can fire. Quite the advantage but they lack special abilities and can not change into gliders, which does seem to balance them out from standard Keyblades. Before they left, the two needed to know just how powerful this unified Reflections of Trixies as a single being/living X-blade was.

With the help from Rare Berry, Zeke was ready to see just how much lower his power cap had to be.

“.... did you just do enough power to wipe out an eighth of reality?” Eclipsa said, her jaw dropped from within the training room.”

“Damn it.” Zeke muttered. “My normal cap is even more potent than I thought.”

“Damn… at my quarter power… currently… I could only wipe out one reflection…. Holy crap how are you not ranked higher on the leaderboards.” Eclipsa said, shaking her head.

“Damn it, I was hoping I’d be able to just go down maybe six or so percents… I’ll have to go even lower than that.” Zeke kept muttering.

“What is your normal cap?” Berry asked.

“Eight percent.” Zeke sighed.

“What the crap?” Eclipse said, paleing just a bit.

“I was hoping I’d only have to lower it to two percent… crap, I’ll have to go way under one then.” Zeke sighed, thinking. “If eight percent does that much damage now, one percent might not even be that much of a difference.”

“Now now don’t go getting all depressed on me.” Eclipsa chuckled, punching Zekes arm and not even wincing. “Yeah you need to hold back… like a crazy lot, but at least I’m starting to understand you better, so your not alone.”

“Eclipse, that was just from the power I get from being a living X-blade, now I have that power as well as the individual power each of the Trixie Reflections got. I might not even be able to use that power if it means I touch something and it’s smashed to atoms. Plus, all of the Trixie’s have magic, strength, durabilities, all different from one another now all stockpiled together, in terms of power this means I might not even need to rely on the X-blade power, but I’ll have to cap how much magic and strength this now body has from what all of them piled into it. Berry, another test?”

“Eh, sure.” Berry said, the room fixing itself as a large metallic pillar rose from the floor. “Punch that, room will measure the rest.”

Nodding, Zeke walked over, ready to punch before stopping, rather placing a hand on the pillar and pressing. The metal, and room, then were hit with a force that sent it all into the rooms outer pocket dimension. “So, that’s full power.” Zeke said. “How much force was that?”

“How much force did the Big bang have?” Berry asked.

“And I felt that first hand…. Not fun having your atoms destroyed, remade, and destroyed in a never ending wave of force and heat.” Eclipsa said, a wince at the memory.

“Crap, and that was just Physical strength.” Zeke muttered. “Now magical.” Zeke asked, Berry nodding as a cable descended from the self repairing ceiling and attached to Zeke/Trixie’s horn. Zeke channeled magic into it. The glow looked normal, but BErry and Eclipsa knew better.

“Hey Berry? Remind me never, ever to touch his mana with so much as a drop of gray.” Eclipsa said, a crushing headache from the simply pure mana radiating off Zeke.

“That’s a good idea, according to this the amount of magic Zeke is putting out is a quarter of what Dad can do.”

“And gray is the one thing Dad can’t do unless he gets permission from me… holy crapola.”

“Actually no. Remember, Dad just needs to have contact with energy to copy and his body begin generating it. It’s why he’s careful around you as you are now.”

“....Huh… Explains why he didn't touch anything when my realm was first formed.” Eclipsa said before turning back to Zeke. “He wanted something he can’t do. Besides skateboard.”

“Which is funny since he hoverboards really well.” Berry laughed as the test finished. “Alright Zeke, given all this and the Rooms collected data you’d be safe not using any X-blade power, summoning Keyblades is alright, as are Chains of Light, in terms of your/Trixie’s body natural power, a safe three percent will keep you in the area you were before.”

“Three… dang. Alright, thanks Berry.” Zeke said. I could feel his power plummet, but knowing what he did was so strong, just what the body can do, no X-blade power included, made Eclipse feel it’s echo still.

Then Eclipse felt a pull towards Zeke and smiled, the hands of fate looking at Eclipse with disdain, but Eclipse knowing they can’t stop this. “Zeke, if you want, I can bless you so you can maintain your three percent, even if you get angry and start to lose some of your mental control.” Eclipse grinned. “And because it is and addition, not a subtraction, it will not screw with your fate.”

“... Okay, but no thanks. If I don’t learn to keep my own power under control, then I deserve whatever Kexez is thinking.” Zeke said, Eclipsa swore those hands… were laughing. “Come on, the next person might be someone Kexez hasn’t located yet.” Zeke said, beginning to walk out.

“Before you go, I figured you might want this.” Berry said, handing Zeke some clothes. “They’re special, if you are in controle, you’ll look like you, if Trixie is, then it will show her body.”

“Oh, that’s good. Been a while since I could see my own face in the mirror.” Zeke said, taking them and heading off to change.”

Once he was gone, Eclipsa groaned, creating a table of energy just to rest her head in her arms. “The fucking hands laughed…. Of course they did… I would have killed them to if it wasn't for Truth…. Truth…. Why did I say that?”

“I’m not sure what you’re talking about.” Berry said. “But, here.” She said, handing Eclipsa… her jacket! “I bought Rarity’s old place and finished it. For one, I made it a tad longer, and keeping all of Rarity’s original magic, I added to it as well.”

Eclipsa gently grabbed it from her, rubbing the Orichalcum+ infused, mana infused jacket, tears rolling down her eyes and falling onto the jacket with a slight sound. “Wh-what did you add to it?” She asked, still rubbing the jacket with her thumb.

“A special illusion spell, like Zeke’s. It will change to to a degree but in reality it’s just an illusion, you’ll still feel normal, but to others you’ll look normal by that world's standards. I also included something on the left and right arm sleeves. The right arm sleeve has a black line of fabric that, if it begins glowing grey, measures how much grey you are using, and the left arm sleeve is a special computer fabric, hacking not just tech, but weak minded people as well, just in case you need a quick get out of trouble card.”

Eclipsa giggled slightly, a soft, sad smile on her face. “Did you make it to fit my female body… even if it grows like it did recently…. Had to swallow myself to talk privately to someone.”

“Of course. It will automatically adjust to whichever form your body takes.”

Eclipsa then gave her sister a tight hug, snobing slightly. “Her funeral is in a week… Spike’s even coming over from the dragon lands…”

“I’ll be there. And hey, the dead aren’t dead forever.”

“I know… heh, Reminds me I still need to find the new barriers of the elements in my world.” Eclipsa said, whiping the tears from her eyes before gently putting back on her old friend. “Oh...I’ll happily never get used to the softness of female clothing.”

“Heh, a perk totally.” Berry said.

Zeke walked in, his face, hair, and eyes all as before, not even Trixie’s massive Bust was there to disrupt the clothes. His clothes consisted of a brown shirt, gray jeans, and a black trench coat. “Never was on for trench coats but hey, this isn’t that bad.” Zeke spoke, in his own voice. “Oh thank god, my own voice too. Almost forgot how I sounded.”

“Welcome back to being you Cousin.” Eclipsa said, feeling whole again with her jacket.

“Well, let’s get going then.” Zeke saud, summoning a Kingdom Key Keyblade and opening a DTL. “All X was able to temm me about this one is that they’re a highschool student. Let’s be quick and careful.” Zeke said entering as Eclipsa followed.

Eclipse was a bit unnerved by the light ‘Looking’ at her with contempt before the exited the otherside. Eclipse looked at herself, shocked to see they looked the same. “Huh, weird, did Berry mess up with her enchantment?”

“Maybe this worlds normal is a tad scue?” Zeke offered, pointing as some passing kids, one of which had a Dog’s head, and another a massive tail behind him.

“.... That would do it.” Eclipsa shrugged, her hands placed behind her head as she looked like a female, blue haired naga Sora with that posture. “Well, lets get looking.”

“Yes, just show off that chest why don’t ya.” Zeke sighed, the Dog head kids now howling. “Alright, now where exactly are we?” Zeke mumbled, looking around.

After fixing her posture, Eclipsa slithered over to a gentleman with a body made of various rocks. “Uhm, Excuse me, but me and my friend are kinda lost. We flew in from overseas and kinda got turned around in the city. Could you help a girl out and tell me where we are?” She asked, crossing her arms under her bust to make it more appealing.

“Er, uh, s-sure. I assume since you flew in from Overseas you’re here for the UA Sports Festival. The school is a few blocks down the road left of here. Can’t miss it.” He said.

Eclipsa Smile before using her tail to get high enough to peck the man's cheek. “Thank you, have a good day!” She said with a smile before turning around and going right back to Zeke, ignoring the now blushing man.

“Slut much?” Zeke asked with a grin.

“Oh please, just using a few tricks Rarity had time to teach me.” Eclipsa waved off.

“Your Rarity didn’t have boobs.” Zeke sighed. “So where are we then?”

“Well, I wasn't able to get where, but I did find out that UA, a school of some kind, is apparently having a sport festival so big people fly in from around the world to see it. Our kid must be one of the students.” Eclipsa said. “Even found out where it is.”

“In a world like this I take it this Sports Festival must be more like the Super Power Olympics then. Only reason I can think of for people flying in to see it being normal. Alright then, lead the way.” Eclipsa smiled and nodded before turning around and slithering off, following the directions the stone-man gave her.

When they arrived they were met with a massive building surrounded by large walls going for miles either way, a single entrance open but the security seemed to be checking for badges. “So, how are we gonna get in?” Zeke asked. “Too public for a DTL and security is checking for badges before we can even enter.”

“Well… We could always stopga the place and sneak in.”

“No, the Area of effect isn’t that big. Though the Vanish spell should last long enough for us to enter quickly.”

“Bitch please I Stopped a world once.” Eclipsa said with a chuckle. “We could also temporarily mind control one, or hell… even a little bit of divine intervention~”

“Tempting but Even so, if someone asks for a badge as we enter we’d still be screwed… Hmm… We could steal some, but I’d rather not. Unless your Godliness can make us two fake passes?”

“Never hurts to try. I mean, I am quickly having an entire reflection peacefully convert over to me, and bless most of them on the daily, this should be a snitch.’ She said before focusing on her core, past her gray and all her other aculimitive powers, even past Insanity, to her core where her godly powers… and something else she still can’t place her hand on resides. Ignoring that other power, Eclipsa reached in and tried to do a simple wish, for passes to magically appear for those without and have a positive need to enter.

Two passes of such appeared in Zeke’s hand. “Oh, well that worked.” He said, putting on on while handing the other to Eclipsa. Once on, the two entered without trouble and made their way to the event Arena. It was massive, respectively. “Crap, if our guy is one of the ones participating, we are looking for a needle in a haystack.” Zeke muttered. “X won’t be sure without being close… Think we’d be able to blend in with them compedaters?”

“Maybe, after all from the gosip apparently it is the whole school competing, not just those in what is known as the hero course. We could pretend to be students from one of the minor courses.”

“Huh, that can work out. If that’s our goal they likely have a roster of everyone competing, so we’ll likely have to hack ourselves into their school system. I can handle that, I’ll just need a computer with Administrative access.”

“And our clothes should blend us in with the students as needed.” Eclipsa nodded before seeing a entrance. “Come on, a computer should be this way. Prepare Vanish.”

As they reached the door, they cast Vanish, entering and rushing through the rooms quickly before finding a classroom. E-4, and entering. “Alright, the Teachers Computer should be good enough. You go find us the uniforms they’ll be using for this event.” Zeke said as he began typing. Eclipsa having to admit, even though this was more advanced than normal computers, Zeke was quick to make it open it’s information to him.

Meanwhile Eclipsa started to cast a temporary spell to make her body that of a highschool girls, though her bust was still bigger than average it wasn't as big as some of the girls that were practicing out there. She quickly found a couple of uniforms that fit her current size and Zeke’s before tossing one to him. “Here.”

“Alright then. One of these lesser classes we should fit in nicely with is Department of Support, there’s a fair amount of students there and there’s five classrooms that teach it, so even though none of them will know us they will figure we’re just from one of the other classes. I kept our names and it seems I had to fill in something called a Quirk, it’s what they call powers here. I went with Snake of you and X-blade for me. Fits and from the others I’ve read, most are self explanatory.”

“Got it… I just hope I don’t have to leave Oath and Oblivion out of this. Oblivion will flip once he hears that I did a competition without him.” Eclipsa chuckled.

“Well I don’t know, it seems you have to register extra items into the competition, and it’s too late to add anything else.” Zeke said, putting on the uniform over his outfit. “To make our case a bit more believable I added in we are exchange students. School district seems to cover that and it goes over the Principal, so that should give us a bit of extra believability.”

“You did add in my coat as a item, right?” Eclipsa asked

“Yeah. That’s all I had time for. Since I put in that my ‘quirk’ lets me summon weapons that bypasses the Equipment requirement. Come on, all the other students will be meeting at the Arena, we have to find this kid fast and warn him.”

“Right.” Eclipsa said before sprinting down the halls, leaving a after image behind her as she rushes to get to where is needed with Zeke not far behind.

Once the two reached the Arena they were lost within the crowd of students, but kept near one another. “So far X feels he’s near, but there’s so many people here. I can’t weed the kid out.” Zeke said.

“If he is as powerful as X believes, he should be one of the final ten. We can weed him out… but we will be destroying the fate of this world doing so.” Eclipsa said before grinning. “So no problem with me.”

“That’s reassuring.” Zeke rolled his eyes. The event began and it was a race. First a rush outside from the narrow exit outside, then a large around the area dash back inside. “Seems simple but it would weed out those with more fitting or multi functional abilities.” Zeke said. “There’s likely obstacles too. As extra challenge.”

Eclipsa nodded before wincing. “Seriously, after this tell me your trick to capping your power. I’ve had to turn off almost everything to not dash ahead of the entire crowd, give the kids a fair shot.” Eclipsa said

“That’s your issue. You can’t shut it down, you can only minimize. Think of it like a Microwave cooking something like a frozen dinner. Too little time, the inside stays cold, keeping it on for longer means a fully cooked meal, otherwise known as pull power. I just keep it typically trying to heat up a meal ten seconds at a time, capping my power. Gets really hot.”

Eclipsa nodded before turning back on the powers, and just… limiting them all… save for Insanity, as you can’t limit what is you. “That… honestly feels a little better.” Eclipsa said, still in the front along with Zeke, but no longer struggling to hold back.

“According to the rules only the first forty two students provide, so a lot get taken out in this event alone. If we finish in the late twenties early thirties we won't stand out, but if I pick up our target then I’m rushing it. This kid has a lot more than a sports festival on the line.” Zeke said, the race about to begin.

Eclipsa began in a “Jog”, and by that a speed in which only a handful of the students, most of them being heros from the looks of it, could keep up before slowing down a little to give others a shot. Zeke kept a steady pace, the narry exit being something difficult but not unmanageable. As they ran out the narry exit ways suddenly there was a massive burst of frost and ice. Zeke jumping to the higher walls and escaping the ice grabbing the other students as he leaped across it. “Damn, whichever kid did that is impressive.”

“Your telling me.” Eclipsa said, having carved a hole through using subtle ice magic and a lot of brute force. “But I don't think that it was him, plenty of other ice users who can make stronger stuff in other reflections.”

“Yeah-” Zeke felt a tug. “The guy’s near. Let’s hurry.” Zeke said, he and Eclipsa rushing, til they were face to face with… giant… robots. “Are you kidding me. How much of a budget does this school have?!” Zeke said, dodging a stomp from one.

Eclipsa blurred up one of the bots, wrapping her tail around its neck before wiping it, snapping the head straight off and sending it crashing below. “About 15.72394 billion from the strength of the bots…. Don’t ask how I knew that.”

“Damn, money must be no object in this world.” Zeke said, leaping high up, noticing one kid flying along with what looked like a Hawk or Falcon shadow, the kids head also a similar black colored bird. “Eclipsa, that’s him, the one with the bird head and shadow helper.” Zeke said. “We gotta figure out how to take him out.”

Eclipsa thought for a moment, still continuing past the robots before snapping with a smile. Suddenly a group of kids that were once lagging behind got a second wind, and the race became hectic, even for the leaders once more. “A little bit of wish fulfilment should help, answering their call for a chance to win this thing.”

“Good, that gives enough chaos for us to snatch him real fast. We can drag him to the bushes on the other side of this wall.”

“... Fine, bit if he still wants to compete I’m helping him catch back up.”

“Fair enough.” Zeke said, taking the chaos as a moment to leap up to the kid, and body slam him.

“Gah! What the!?” He yelped, Zeke falling with him across the wall and into the trees, Eclipsa slithering over the walls quickly.

While Zeke was unharmed in the fall the kid was a bit dazed. “You alright? Was a high fall but I imagine you’d shake it off.” Zeke said.

“Hey, you two okay?” Eclipsa asked, acting like just a concerned student so as not not make the kid feel strange when she offers to help.

“Ugh, I guess but the hell was with you knocking me over here?!” The kid yelled at Zeke.

“It looked like a accident from where I was. Was it?” Eclipsa asked Zeke, eyes begging for him to play along with her clueless act.
“... You’re really gonna act like the clueless bystander when you know the circumstances?” Zeke asked.

Eclipsa sighed, rubbing her temples. “You’re a dick, you know that?” She said before turning to the kid. “Hey, sorry about him crashing into you… but we know something that you might want to hear for your own good.”

“Hm? WHat do you mean?” He asked. “Who are you people. I know I’ve never seen either of you here at UA before. I’m just a freshman but even I’d recognize someone with a Mutant Querk like yours.” He said to Eclipsa.

“Exchange student in the support class. Heh, we just showed up not long ago and suddenly wam, Sports festival. But right now, that's less important.”

“... I don’t buy it. I know you’re not freshmen and even if you were exchange students word around the school would have spread already.”

Zeke sighed. “I’m Zeke, this is Eclipsa. Look, long story short, you are one of twenty special people a really evil person is hunting.”

“Evil enough that…. Well the last person he hit… you won't find them anywhere anymore.” Eclipsa said with a tone of regret. ‘If only I had been better.’

He looked over the two, seeing Eclipsa’s regret and Zeke’s anger. “Well… if that is true, then what are you two? Special forces or something?”

“Heh, or something.” Zeke laughed. “So, your name?”

“Fumikage Tokoyami.” He said

“Listen Tokoyami.” Eclipsa said. “This person will actually look alot like Zeke here, but unlike Zeke, once you see him, you need to find a way to escape, find one of us, something, but whatever you do, avoid fighting him. You. Will. Lose. I bet even the best hero around might lose without a army of people like him backing him up.”

“Are you certain of that? And why me? What makes me so special?”

“Your Quirk.” Eclipsa said with a sigh. “He is going around, going to everyone who has a powerful, unique quirk, and…. Lets just say I would prefer it if he just killed them. But he doesn't.” Eclipsa said sadly. “And as for if I am certain… I have seen him in action. While he isnt as powerful as someone like you or me, he has power… and worse yet he knows his victims. He tricked me to leaving a friend just so he could do an awful thing to her, giving her a fate that is worse than death.” Eclipse said, not even lying for a moment.

“... What was it?”

“He took her quirk… no, fuck that. He took her and forced her into a weapon, and fused her with Zeke, who’s quirk makes him a walking weapon.”

“Wait, what?” Tokoyami asked.

“Yeah.” Zeke said, letting Trixie take over, the change surprising Tokoyami as Zeke changed looks and gender.

“Hey.” Trixie waved.

“Yup. And Trix, if your mine at least… sorry for not acting fast enough.” Eclipsa says before turning back to Tokoyami. “Believe me now?”

“I...But, why me? My quirk is unique, yes, but it’s nothing worth… that.” He stammered.

“It’s complicated.” Zeke said, changing back to him. “He’s smart, too smart. He knows compared to us he’s underpowered, outmatched in a fight. So he sneaks, snatching them and using speed and any advantage he can. He’s likely too smart to outsmart, so all we can do is try and keep you out of his reach. So long as he at least don't have one of you twenty, his primary goal can be stopped.”

“On that same hand, if you still want to compete, I can get you back up to the top forty two.”

“I… I don’t know. Is it even safe. Will be different from Zeke in anyway?”

“Hey, if you wanna finish Eclipsa here can rush you back up there and I’ll charge in if anything happens. Okay? We came to keep you safe.”

“Besides, It’ll be fun competing. No use trying to worry. Be aware, but don’t let that ruin your day, you hear me?” Eclipsa said, flexing her godly aura to try and calm down the small panic attack the kid was having with a smile.

“Well...alright, at least it might calm my nerves.” Tokoyami said.

“Alright. Eclipsa, rush him to the group, I’ll just meet you in the seats of the crowd.” Zeke said.

“Don't forget to cheer for us!’ Eclipsa said with a giggle before taking Tokoyami and rushing so fast her afterimages had a after image.

Zeke entered the gate dead last, not caring as he walked over to the seats. He began observing the Cavalry battle, and then the battle stage. Eclipsa fought some plant student, though it seemed like Eclipse had to try while holding back, but she did eventually win due to her simple defence, though one of her eyes was constantly glowing, it seemed as only Zeke noticed it. When Tokoyami went up against someone named Bakugo, this is when things started getting odd. Mainly Zeke noticed the sunny day began getting cloudy. “Hmm… I feel you’re here Kexez… so what’s with the weather? What’s your game?”

As Tokoaymi’s match drew on the clouds got darker. “Hm… why make it darker? What reason is there for that-” Zeke then had a thought. Tokoyami’s helper is, after all a shadow… He looked at the match, Tokoyami’s shadow was indeed larger and getting more aggressive than it was when sunny. “So, it’s docile when in daylight, but the darker it gets, the wilder it gets… clever, can’t intervene yet. He hasn’t shown his hand just yet.”

Eclipsa, who sat next to him, grunted as her eyes glowed so bright Zeke was surprised no one was noticing. “Don’t know where he is… but the hands are swarming, It is all I can to keep them off him.”

“You may wanna tone down the flashlights before we get called out, or even kicked out.”

A short student with purple, ball like hair looked up at Eclipsa and blushed, a small nosebleed trailing down his face. “H-hey, nice red eyes!” He said before saying to himself “Stupid” over and over again as he turned away, not even seeing the glow.

“Huh, not even gonna ask.” Zeke said, noticing Tokoyami’s shadow was even wilder now. “Crap, at this rate he won’t be able to control it… Which would make sense. Quick- we have to-” Zeke was saying, suddenly DTD’s appearing everywhere as Heartless and Unversed began flooding everywhere. “Fuck!” He yelled, summoning a Kingdom Key and taking out five. “That bastard!”

“I have an idea…” Eclipsa said before summoning more clones of herself, startling the students even more. “Protect everyone. Zeke, with me. I can keep the fates off him for now as he isn't tied to yours just yet, but if we don't act, he will be… and I’m not sure I can stop it when it gets to that.”

“Alright, I’ll try and get his shadow under control, you look for Kexez, I can feel him here.” Zeke said, jumping off the edge and racing over to Tokoyami.

Another copy of Eclipse ran with him, backing him up while the others took care of the others, surprising all the Heros that they were being upstaged by what seemed like a highschooler.

As Zeke and the copy of Eclipsa ran up to Tokoyami, they were met by his Shadow throwing a swing of it’s now car sized hand. “R-Run! I can’t control him when it’s too dark!” Tokoyami yelled.

“So, how you wanna handle it?” Zeke asked.

“I’m currently keeping the hands away from him, but we need…. We need light. I’ll focus on creating that light with a fire spell, you keep me covered incase Kezex shows up.” She said, lifting up her X-blade and focusing it into a giant as hell mega flare and keeping it on the tip of the blade.

As Zeke kept that Shadow of Tokoyami’s at bay, the situation only seemed to grow worse as the DTD’s keep letting out Heartless, overwhelming the pros and aiding students. Even with all of Eclipsa’s copies, it was a lot to deal with.

Eclipse hand even started to make copies with the purpose of making copies, hundreds of Eclipse running around, slaying heartless while the one by Zeke kept growing the huge mega flare, making a miniature sun that had started to shine brightly. “I will kill Kezex for this.” She grunted, her eyes never blinking in an attempt to hold back these “hands of fate.”

As more kept coming, time seemed to freeze. Eclipsa the only one noticing it. She couldn’t move, no matter how hard she tried… thankfully her eyes kept burning but that only took care of whatever she saw, even as she struggled against the magic.

As time, for her at least, kept on, she saw someone enter her field of view. It was a woman, young, fair skin and long blond hair. Her attire was as it it was made from countless loose strings all handing down from her neck down. When she walked into Eclipsa’s field of view, she looked at Eclipsa, and Eclipsa saw her skin was beginning to turn red, vapors coming off her.

‘Who the fuck is this?’ She thought, trying to pull back from the vapors fruitlessly as her eyes kept burning the fates, unblinking despite the need to.

The woman walked up to Eclipsa, the vapors and burns growing more so as she got closer. “Such will, such anger.” She spoke, her voice like honey to Eclipsa’s ears. “Shame, you hate me and my work so much. Just remember, despite what I often do, I am neutral in all of this.”

‘You… my eyes burn fate, as well as my very presence… you are fate herself.’ Eclipse thought, recognition in her eyes.

She walked over to Zeke, Eclipsa barely keeping her in her field of view. “Zeke Ventral, you and all your Reflections, possibly my greatest works, both the good and bad. So much I wish I could tell you, but not yet… not while he still draws breath.” She said, walking over to Tokoyami now. “Child… this is not what I had crafted for you… but, it’s what is now meant to be.” She said, placing a hand on him. “Forgiveness, a luxury I can never have. But know this, in the end, it will all work out. I can at least say that.” Time began to move again, Fate vanishing as Zeke was rushing towards Tokoyami, a DTD opening under him as a Darkside hand grabbed him.

As Zeke was about to slash, the hand pulled Tokoyami in, making the kids head the new target of Zeke’s attack. Zeke disbanded his Keyblade, right before it hit, flying passed Tokoyami as he was dragged into the darkness, and the portal closed, as did the rest.

Eclipsa sighed sorrowfully, all the clones disappearing back into the main original clone, each willed with detection and… despair. No hope seen in her crimson red eyes as she sat down, reverting back to her adult self. “It all begins and ends with him… doesn’t it Fate?” she said, laying back as the clouds parted and the sky became clear once more.

“Damn it.” Zeke cursed, pounding the ground. “That mother fucker…”

“No point in raging about what we could have done Cousin… heh, I guess this was an awakening that no matter how much I defy my own destiny… I guess I can’t change for others what is set in stone.” Eclipsa said with a slightly mad, yet sorrowful chuckle.

Zeke grunted, standing up. “Stone can break… just keep punching.”

“It may… it may… but what is the price for it? To punch a stone to the point where it breaks for a normal being, they would need to bunch far past the point of irreparable damage… “ Eclipsa sighed. “Zeke, I know I’ve always been a beacon of defiance… but I’ve grown. And if i go with you to the others, or stay, the outcome will be the same, only the means will change… and even fate isn't happy about it if her reaction was anything to go by.” She chuckled. “I bet she herself was hoping that I would have been enough to stop it, no matter the pain she is put under just from being around me.” Eclipsa said, sounding more mad than normal to Zeke, talking about Fate like a person.

“So what?! You expect me to just give up?”

“No… I wouldn't want that for you, even if my family was on the line.” She said, turning away from him as a small crowd of heros started to make their way over. “I hope you can defy your fate… but I will change nothing… and I won't hold my breath. Will I hope, pray even that you will find a way to reverse what has been done and prevent more? Yes. Do I think it will come to pass….That is something I am still looking for an answer to.”

“Hm. You really have changed. Then again, I guess you got other priorities.”

“Becoming a responsible parent for once will change you. As well has having million and millions of lives, all looking to you for help, salvation, even just friendship. Half of Daybreak ended up in my reflection, under my jurisdiction. I have a reflection almost exclusively worshiping me by now. I have my family that I care for, and soon I will be a teacher. I am training to save an entire race form a corrupted keyblade wielder, as well as having a suicide mission hanging above my head before this keyblade war even starts. I tamed my insanity and will soon be learning how to work with it, and last but not least I have to deal with the pressure that the moment one being catches wind of me currently, I can say goodbye to everything I have ever cared about before being killed, if not rewritten and coded to be under his command…. So yes, I have grown up.” Eclipsa ranted calmly. “And as much as this will sound rude, The fact that gaining power is your only concern is selfish.”

“...Maybe it is. But hey,” Zeke said, turning around into a DTL. “Who’s perfect in this world?” He asked, walking into it and leaving Eclipsa alone.

Eclipsa sighed sadly. ‘It needed to be said.’ She thought before turning to the afraid, cautious, confused, and angry crowd before her and Explaining. Explaining that she and Zeke came here to try and prevent Tokoyami’s kidnapping, What she was, though it required some proof she had to show, what the creatures were, weather or not they would see their friend/student/family again. That last one was the hardest No Eclipsa had ever said, and the tears on many of them did little to help. She left for home through a DTG before more cops could show up, a single tear of gray falling down into the floor below as she did so before arriving at her home.

The pieces have fallen into place.

The game has barely begun, and already our adversaries believe it all fruitless.

Tisk tisk, so naive.

Now now, let’s remember. We did not begin this game, just to build their perfect weapons. We started it, to make their perfect Heroes.

So what is this end result you crave so dearly Vincent?

Isn’t it obvious? And Ending of course.

I arrived home mentally exhausted, feeling like crap as I just collapsed on the couch. Before snapping and getting rid of this clone body, my focus once again on my original, pregnant self. I layed in bed, looking outside to Luna’s night. “I hope you find what matters to you Zeke… because currently, the example your setting to your kids… its just as bad as I was. Making a similar mistake that I did. Power isnt evil… and I can change fate… but it is your destiny to gain it to Cript levels.” She sighed before singing

”Simple and Clean is the way that your making me feel tonight. It’s hard to let you go.”

Hollow: Part 1

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Over the last two days or so I haven’t been myself. I’ve been putting on a mask for my family, and I know they suspect it. The day of my teaching job finally arrived and I was sitting in my new office, looking over the list of students I have for first period and the whole time I couldn’t get Zeke out of my head. I just felt like crap about it as I sighed, looking over my outfit as a Combat/P.E instructor.

It really was just a mini skirt as I didn't have anything to hide with a gray tank top and my own jacket as I didn't have time (or the care) to buy a different one. I groaned before resting my head on the desk, watching the time tick closer and closer to my first class.

The memory of me explaining things to the crowed when Zeke left… that look in his eye, and when I came back, apparently Starlight’s shop was robbed, or so everyone says. She’s been missing since then and nothing was taken. I can only assume she was the other target of Kexez here on Equestria. I’ve always been a determined one… the defiant one… but I’ve never felt so… so hopeless, even when I was getting my ass handed to me 24/7. I sighed as I started to pack up the papers that I will need for the start of class.

The bell rang and I got up, heading outside to the field where my students were waiting. It was a fairly small one. Seven. Three colts, four fillies. One of the colts was human, likely from Daybreak, the rest were ponies, though, one of the fillies had a Dragons tail rather than a pony one. Mix maybe? Oh well, time for the mask.

“Hello, I’ll be your new Combat and P.E teacher! My name is Eclipsa _______… odd I mean Eclipsa Sparkle, but please, call me either Eclipsa or Mrs. Eclipsa. Now before we get started I need to take roll.” I said with a soft, kind smile and as happy as I could get my eyes to be.

“Esmeralda Cal?”

“Here.” Esmeralda was a pink, earth pony, grass green mane and was actually wearing clothes… like, shoes and pants and a hoodie.

“Carl Phillips.”

“Here.” The human kid spoke.

“Hero… Hero?”

“Here.” Spoke a white coat, purple maned colt… huh, looks like a young genderswapped Rarity.

“Green Vase.”

“Here.” Spoke the other and last colt. He was purple, dark blue mane and was a unicorn.

“... Eclipsa?”

“Heh, here.” Spoke the filly with a dragons tail… huh, bizzare. Her coat was green, but her tail’s scales were all black, and her mane was a light blue.

“Okay, Evergreen Nights?”

“Here.” Spoke the filly all dressed in clothes.

“And lastly, Candy Corn.”

“Here.” Said the last filly, bright orange coat with a white mane.

“Alright then.” I said, double checking that none were missing before closing the journal. “So, You all signed up and got papers from your parents saying you can't take my class, and none of you have keyblades, correct?” I asked, setting the papers down in mid air and snapping, teleporting them to my desk.

“Duh.” Evergreen said.

I couldnt help but giggle honestly. “I was just making sure everyone was in the right class Evergreen.” I said to the filly before addressing the others. “Before we get into the meat of our class, I think a small game to learn more about one another in called for.” I said, thinking of a physical game that could tell me where they are in terms of fitness while still allowing me to get to know them better.

Utilizing my Goddess powers and Assistant, I manifested a small training course. A barrel break section, laps section, and a rock climb. While simple the magic in the course will tell me where each student is at in terms of strength, endurance and problem solving. The last may sound out of place but the rock wall is more of a puzzle rather than an actual climb.

“The way this will work is simple. Before the first obstacle, you will introduce yourself and your favorite hobby. At the second, you will tell us something that you find to be cool, or cute, basically anything you enjoy that isn't a hobby. And before the rock wall, you will tell us why you wanted to join this class, what your goal is, and why you wish to fight even when others have a very unfair advantage.” I said, the soft smile never leaving my face. “I will go through each one first, showing you it is possible and going through the same requirements. Any questions?”

No responses.

“Okay then, lets get started.” I said with a smile, taking off my jacket and putting it to the side as I slithered over to the barrel break. “As I told you all earlier, my name is Eclipsa Sparkle, and my favorite hobby is singing.” I said before getting a big old grin. …. Yes there was another reason for the barrel break. I needed to release some tension and stress safely. Like a viper, pun intended, I quickly struck in, bunching one barrel and sending it flying into a group, causing them all to shatter as my tail wiped one that I had missed. With practiced ease I slipped through the course and had destroyed them all in a time that Blitz would have enjoyed. Ten seconds flat. With a snap I repaired them all and put then back in place. “Don’t worry about your time, before the end of the school year this will be laughably easy. Just focus on destroying all the barrels.”

“So, who goes first?” Carl asked.

“Well, I’ll let you go, after all you spoke up.” I said with a impish grin.

“Oh, Um… Okay.” He said, walking up to the barrels. “Um… My name is Carl and favorite hobby is playing the flute.” He said. Looking this kid over, he was thin, like crazy thin, glasses and short yet somehow messy brown hair. Hope this won’t be too hard for him. Heh… then again, you never know with people like him… sometimes they are the most powerful. Looks are deceiving after all.

He took off his glasses and pocketed them. He then… began growing… and growing… and growing… He went from a short skinny kid to a ten foot tall body builder! He then swung a punch at the barrels, the first one shattering on impact, the others shattering from the WIND created by the punch, and several trees were uprooted or sliced clean through behind them as it ran over towards Canterlot Mountain… we felt that impact. We all stared at Carl, who, in an anticlimactic poof, returned to his tiny self. “Was that good?”

“Good? My my Carl, I’m afraid that was Excellent.” I said with a smile. “Though we will need to work together later to control that strength, and not let it control you.” I said

“Heh… sorry. It’s an ability I got from my dad, and it only works if I believe in myself or something like that.”

“Well then, We’ll need to just keep that Hope and Belief top top, now don’t we?” I smiled before ushering him to the other side and snapping, repairing all the damages and replacing all the barrels.

“Wait, your dad has the same power?” Eclipsa the student asked.

“Heh, yeah.” Carl replied.

“OHMYGOSH!” She yelped, racing back to her saddle bags and taking out… are those Daybreak Empire… collectors cards… sure, why not. “Uhh, no, no… AH! Here.” She said, placing down a card with an overly muscular man in golden armor, no helmet, and weilding a rather odd one handed Axe. “You’re Dad’s Escanore! Daybreak’s special forces and one of the few non-Keyblade wielders in the army!”

“Heh… yeah, that’s dad…” Carl said.

“Now now Eclipsa, while that is definitely interesting and dare I say, Epic in it’s own right, Please hold your Questions until we get to free sparing or after class. Don’t want you two to be talking all day now do we?” I chuckled. “Any volunteers to go next?”

“I’ll go.” Evergreen said, walking up the the barrels. “I’m Evergreen. I like punching stuff.” She took off her shoes, and bucked the barrel, the barrel suddenly exploding in what I could tell was pure magic. The shrapnel from that explosion penetrated the other barrels.

Evergreen… Oh! I remember her. Her file said she had a mana deformation. She creates enough to be considered a unicorn, but she’s an earth pony, so she can expel that excess mana through a well placed buck, creating a magical explosion. Sadly if I remember correctly her file also stated the lack of mana to the rest of her body makes her skin easily sunburned and it’s like a third degree burn after just five minutes. Quite the double edged sword with her. At least when she creates her explosions… Cheerilee gave me all the interesting students, didn’t she?

“Well done Evergreen! Though if you do need it, I do have some sunscreen on standby.” I informed her with a kind nod

That earned some giggles from the other students. Evergreen blushed, and looked rather pissed. “Sh-shut up!” She said, walking over to the area for those who finished.

“I agree with Evergreen students. You will learn that quite a few amazing powers come with a cost. Even my own come with it. Every power has a price, that just happens to be Evergreen’s.” I said with a slight frown, the first the students had ever seen on me before it went back to a soft smile. “Now then, who’s next?” I said, once again repairing the barrels.

“Me!” Eclipsa said… heh, sharing a name with a student is weird. “My name is Eclipsa and my hobby is collecting Daybreak Army Collectors Cards!” She walked up to the barrels, and… positioned herself in a way that her tail gave off a large shadow… that shadow then rose up, attached to her tail, and she smacked the barrel into the others, breaking them all. The shadow tail returned to being a shadow. “Yay!” She cheered.

Yup, Cheer gave me all the strange ones she probably didn't know what to do with. “Well done Eclipsa, very impressive use of natural shadow magic, I’ve personally never seen it used like that. Well done.” I said with a smile.

“Hehe. Thanks!” She said, bouncing along as Esmeralda walked up.

“Hi. I’m Esmeralda and I like pumpkins.” She said. She then tipped the barrel over, making it roll over to the other barrels where they all just… broke apart. Just… fell apart as if they lost the ability to hold themselves together….. Okay then.

“Wow, I certainly didn't expect them to just fall apart like that Esmeralda.” I commented as I started to repair them again and she trotted over past me.

Next came Green Vase. “Hi, I’m Green vase, and I like to make paper.” Making paper? He bucked the barrel… and it turned to paper… “Dang it…” Oh...so that’s why.

I smiled and nodded. “Very surprising Green. We’ll be use to use that while we train.” I said, repairing it as internally my brain was still trying to wrap around all the oddities my students have.

Hero walked up next. “My name is Hero, and I like swords.” Suddenly all the barrels were turned into pin cushions. “Your son makes good swords.”

“Cutting Wind?... I thought I told him no more sharpening wooden swords until he is sixteen.” I muttered to myself.

“This is just his Overstock.”

I sighed. “I won’t take it away, but as far as the teachers and your parents are aware, I had no idea you had one, deal?” I said with a playful chuckle.

“Okay.”

Lastly was Candy. “My name’s Candy, and I like eating.” She then bite the barrel… even the metal was bit clean through as she ate, chewed and swallowed her bit of splinters and metal...

This time I couldn't stop my jaw dropping. “Okay then just… wow, alright. On to the next test.” I said, writing down all of their abilities I know while moving on to the track.

Onto the laps, thankfully that went normal… they all sucked. I mean, they all got tired or fell over themselves not even halfway through...

“Okay, stamina… what stamina?” I wrote down, far enough away for them not to hear. “Alright, take a small breather then we will go for the rock wall.” I told them after the finally completed one lap.

Finally onto the rock wall, those that could made use of their abilities, and others were smart and walked around the rock wall. Goal is to get to the other side. Never did explain how.

“Well done children, now for the final part. Tell us all, why you are here, why you want to be a part of this class.” I said, taking a seat in the grass.

They all looked at one another then to me. “Cause we were kicked out of normal PE.” They all said at once.

I had a blank look before a honest smile broke over my face and I started to laugh. “Oh you lot do belong in my class. The same happened to me back when I was only eight.”

“So, what now?” Green Vase asked.

“Now, we find out what style of fighting I will be teaching each of you.” I said with a smile. “No one has the exact same style, so be sure to remember that you can and are free to make adjustments to anything I teach you, but we must find out what weapons, magic, or if any at all speak to you children.” I said before tapping into my godly power very lightly. “Now, to do this, everyone get someplace comfortable and close your eyes. This is going to be using some imagination to find out.”

As one me was teaching at the school, the other was still training with Cript, who was having me run through this endless, day and night cycle-less desert. “What exactly is it you want me to do Sensei.” I said, using the honorific in a non-sarcastic way.

“Without any of your normal abilities, you’re body has to be worked on from the ground up. You’ll need to learn to take on enemies with all kinds of adventaged on you, your first primary enemy is often your battleground. If it’s something you’re unfamiliar with or it’s changeable, you need to learn to make up for it.”

I nodded, determined to see this though. “Alright. Just point me in a direction and I’ll strive from there.”

“You’re in it. Sand is common and walking in it is a pain as it, battling in it is even harder. You’ll have to learn to move as fast on the sand as you would on solid ground, that’s why you’re running on it. This will also increase your reflexes and stamina.”

“I take it you don’t want me to have the advantage of my snake body then?” I said, remembering that snakes have a easier time in sand.

“Yes. Not every fight you’ll be in your normal form, you might and often will have to shift between the forms you have, human, pony, and now naga.”

I nodded before shifting back into my human form. Of course as my main body was still female, this one was as well, giving me medium-long, messy, dirty brown hair and my classic red eyes with my skin now having a slight tan to it. And a DD cup, but that is less important than training. I was dressed in a gray v neck t shirt and simple black jeans. “Alright.”

“Good. Here.” Cript said, tossing me a short sword. “For what will come next, no Keyblades. Got it?”

“Yes Sensei.” If your wondering, yes I am saying it so to try and help control myself from being a smartass and focusing on the task at hand.

“Alright. Look ahead.” Cript said. Ahead of us I could make out… buildings? “That’s a set of ruins, this place is a planet the underwent apocalyptic events. The monsters responsible are still around. You’ll be fighting them, got it?’

I nodded, Unsheathing the sword to inspect it before strapping it to my side. “Got it. I won't fail… too much is riding on this.”

As we arrived I noticed these houses looked… aged. So aged. “The monsters here were called Delks. Think of them like Leaches the size of bears that move like spiders.”

“Well shit.” I said with no joking as I took a good look around for any hiding spots for something that big besides the sand dunes.

“After they ate all the people and animals they evolved, switching to plant life, then they took to the seas. Ate everything there then began drinking it. Now they scavenge anything, ate this world to a lifeless husk.”

“Seems stupid. Why eat out all of your food supply and leave the planet completely barren, and essentially starving your own species?”

“It's what they were built for.” Cript said, pointing at the blue dot on his hand… Nexus… “any world they don't see as having an excess of valuable materials they send these monsters to take out. Not even because they fight back, because they want other worlds to know what happens when they think your worthless.”

I took a breath, calming myself from flying off the rails and maintaining the discipline thats been, literally, beaten into me. “they will be taken down. He is sure, he is confident, and because of that he is sloppy. Add that I don't think Fate has told him of me, and I will open the gates for you to take him by storm.”

“And even if I do kill Vincent, do you think it's all gonna crumble?”

“No. You can’t end something like this… something this big that has been at play for Eons just by cutting off the head of the snake. That is just step one to keeping it from getting worse.”

“You would think that.”

“So am I wrong?” I asked, going through one of the ruins.

“Eclipsa. Nexus has trillions of Reflections across multiple realms at their disposal. Not all of them just for resources. They raise, breed and grow their own cities, people, generations of life forms thinking Nexus is their leader, that this is all they know and everything else is crap. Father's, wives, children. When I rework all creation into one infant world they will all be connected and when they learn their leader, their 'god’ Vincent is dead, you can only imagine the actions they will take. Nexus made certain that even without Vincent their organization can and will live on. Forever likely.”

I stopped dead in my tracks. “Cript, Father, Sensei, There is one truth I have learned, in no small part thanks to you. Everything ends. Even Vincent’s “little” Organization. I know that one day even my Legacy will end, that every last trace of everything I had ever done will fade and become a memory long forgotten. The same will happen with Nexus. If me, a small little nothing with a weak heart, who Nexus probably deemed a failure from birth if he had ever known about me, could grow to become a actual threat, then His organization shall fall. That isn't a promise or wishful thinking. Simply a fact.”

“Hm. I won’t argue, but I will say this. Everything clings to life, for as long as possible. Nexus has about well mastered the art.” Cript said as suddenly from the sands emerged a bear sized tick with Daddy Long Legs legs, all kinds of eyes and a mouth not even it’s mother could love. “And there’s one. Weak spots are the eyes, underbelly and it’s ninth tongue.”

…… “Okay seriously what the fu-” I said before being body slammed so quickly I didn't even see it into a building across the ruined town. “That’s going to leave a mark.” I said with a groan as I pulled myself out of the crater, one of my arms clearly broken as well as a few ribs but, I have a job to do. I unsheathed my blade and started off with the monster, all emotion, even pain, fading from my eyes.

I rushed the thing, sliding under it as I gave a slice at it’s under belly. It roared, turning around and trying to swipe me. I raised the blade in time, though I still heard bones breaking from the force as I grit my teeth to keep myself from crying out. I used the momentum from the hit to swing the blade and cut off that leg in a single slice, controlling my breathing to keep my now broken body working.

The thing began to tilt. So, it can’t properly balance itself when missing a leg? Grinning, I took that as my advantage, rushing under it and jabbing the Short Sword under its head, and out an eyeball or two. The beast roared, then collapsed.

Seeing too many times where the beast played dead, I went to the underbelly and sliced it down, spilling its guts for good measure. “That hurt more than expected. “I said, knowing I am only awake due to will and a little adrenaline.

“Good job.” Cript said, walking over. He tossed me a Hi-Potion and I drank it, my minor wounds healing completely and major ones mostly fixed, now reduced to fractures.

“Now then, onto some minor facts.”

“Hm?”

“You may or may not know this but you can do certain attacks without Keyblades or even envent some for when you don’t have them or aren’t using them.”

“That so?”

“Yes. Strike Raid, basically all of the spells and Raid attacks can be used either with a different weapon or without one. This will give you an edge against stronger enemies your weapons might not be able to do much damage alone.”

“Huh. That will help... “ I thought, raising my sword. “Cure.” I said, the spell activating as the magic healed me. Now I felt great. “Okay, so what next?”

“First off, do you know why I brought you here?”

“Training in harsh environments with dangerous enemies.”

“COrrect. These monsters aren’t the only ones here.”

“What else could be here?”

“Nexus.”

My expression hardened. “So… what will that part involve?”

Cript took a deep breath, seeming to collect himself before speaking. “Killing.”

“I’ll... “

“Yes. Taking life is no easy task. Even if you’ve mastered it, taking such an act likely is the mark of a monster. You’ll have to remember, it will be them, or you. Your family, or them. No matter how evil they are… no one in this world is born to evil, they either choose it, or are altered.”

“... Alright. When will this be?”

“In a week. Start counting the hours.”

Hollow: Part 2

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The next day was a half day. Another one of many Equestrian Holidays. This one is called Beaver Give Thanks Day, or this world's version of Groundhogs day. Though, rather than seeing a shadow the beavers all chop wood to replace the wood partly ruined over winter for their dams.

Ponies would mainly go to watch or help. It’s not celebrated in Canterlot but here in Ponyville they do it. When I came home Scotch was reading over a letter. I sighed a tired, but relatively happy sigh. “Hey dear, something good come in for you?” I asked as I hung up my coat, giving it a caring pat before turning back to my shy husband.

“No. Well, sorta. It’s from Zeke’s wives. It says he woke up after becoming this realms Admin, and now about twenty people and he are sharing their body.” Scotch informed.

At that, what little happiness the kids gave me during class today, left me. A frown appeared across my face as my eyes turned sad. “Is that so…”

“Yes. It said they are all going to be going to each of their worlds to wrap up business before anything, then it says they will better figure how to co-exist as they are. Wow… I always figured Zeke as the one with potential for power… but becoming the heart of all worlds and everything… AND an admin like Cript… Someone up there must have liked him.” He said, placing the note down before grabbing their saddlebags and giving me a kiss. “Sale on some rare herbs, gonna nab some for dinner. Be back later.” With that they were gone and I was left looking at the letter.

“Someone up there like him…. More like curse him… and I did nothing to help.” I said, not even bothering to read the letter, leaving it on the table as I went to make chocolate pancakes and blend it in a smoothie with Palpu.

I admit… I have Palpu addiction. With that in hand I sat on the couch and drank it, Oath and Oblivion suddenly summoning themselves… and casting the Confetti and Fireworks spells… even my X-blade was doing it… “Alright you … three… I get it, Kingdom Hearts is whole and with Zeke… now why are you celebrating….” I said, honestly trying to fight off depression.

”You kidding!? This is the first time our maker has EVER walked among with us!

”Plus, this means older brother’s prediction will come true!” Oath them proceed to squeal like a fangirl meeting her favorite boy band member.

“Look, I get it, this is big you you all… and I know my mood is probably a downer… But your maker is currently in the form of Zeke, the same Zeke that hates being all powerful… and guess what, he is now so powerful it takes people of a similar level just to make even try at really anything. If I had it my way… I would have had you wait a bit longer… and I’m sorry that it comes off as rude, but it is how I feel.” I told them before going back to my drink with a heavy sigh.

Their fun stopped, the spells stopping as they all just fell to the floor. Silent. ”Eclipse… Look, we know you feel bad about this, but this is the first time… ever, any of us have had the chance to even meet our creator properly. Kingdom Hearts, Zeke, you really don’t get it, do you?”

“I get that meeting your creator isn't all that it is hyped up to be… trust me, been there, done that….” I said before sighing. “I get it alright… Zeke was always destined for this, why else do you think I stopped? I can fight fate all day, even if I am hesitant now, but destiny is a different fish. He was always going to make your creator whole again, you were always going to meet them, your parent. But… I just… Can’t help but think that Zeke is nothing more than a sacrificial lamb at this point. A means to an end. Truth was right… what did I just say?” I said, confused as a few flashes of… something went through my mind before fading…. Weird. “Anyways… You can be happy. You are finally meeting them after eons and eons of them being gone. You deserve to be happy. I just can't help but think at what cost.”

”It’s not that no nuts! Tell me, what does Zeke and these other twenty have in common?”

“I’m assuming being unbelievably powerful in their own right or made by Nexus?”

”Nope! Their hearts. Balanced hearts don’t just appear, and making one is, well, you get what happened with Ventus and Vanitas.”

“Yeah. Mine used to be balanced, then I converted most of it into gray.” I said. “So they were all balanced, brought Dark and light back together, Recreated the original gray, making my accomplishment unneeded, and brought back kingdom hearts after all of them were turned into X-blades against their will, ruining any chance of a life as they fused with Zeke to allow KH to truly become whole. I miss something?”

”Yes. Balanced hearts are shards of our maker. This is why they can not be created, the bigger the shard the stronger the heart, and twenty in particular were created out of literally countless. This includes yours. Hell, if you didn’t turn to grey you’d be stuck sharing body and mind with your cousin right now.”

“Lucky me.” I grumbled and sighed.

”Point is these shards needed to come together anyway. Nexus can control what Zeke is, how he was born, how powerful he can become, but there is literally no way they could have predicted what heart he would have gotten. Zeke was destined for this BEFORE Nexus could have even planned this. And it’s not like they can control him anyway. Their Psychopath blood idea is botched now.”

“Yeah… wait…. If a balanced heart is supposed to be strong, why is my still so weak?” I asked, bringing out the gray heart... Such a tinny, cracked, chipped thing it was. If it wasn't floating, I’d be afraid that a touch would cause it to crumble in my hands.

”Because your shard was the last one, all that was left of them all. Why, you may ask? Well, let me ask you this, why make an extra part when all you need is already there? Answer, sometimes it’s handy, other times… it’s not THAT kind of extra part.”

“What do you mean?” I said, looking up from the heart floating shakily in my hand.

”What brother is trying to say is that your heart was never meant to be one of the many ment to bring back Kingdom Hearts, our maker and all that. It was meant to keep them in check. Your heart was so frail, because it was never meant to be light and dark, your heart was built for grey, and if you checked your heart now…”

I looked down at the heart that was barely containing the power it held as it seemed to slowly be repairing itself… again slowly, but it was happening.

”Your heart, while the optional part, is the only part able to, if needed, keep our maker in check, or, take over them.”

“So, I’m the fallout plan… huh… doesn't feel as bad as I think it should.” I said with a shrug. “Meh, better than when I found out I really was technically never meant to exist, being a Glitch and all.”

”Your heart is why you are a glitch I would wager. So worst case scenario you and Zeke are sharing a body… somehow bet your lovers would find that kinky.”

“They give Rune an run for her money, of course they would… but I could only do that as the only option… I have kids to look after.

”Oh god imagine all those honry bitches all in the same bedroom… jesus Admin strength could not even save you.”

“Okay horndog… Sigh, Still. If given the option I won't let myself become one with Zeke. I have kids to look after, and as much as they can handle me switching forms and genders, I won’t make them deal with knowing the person they are talking to won’t always be their mother/father.”

”Actually word along the grapevine is that the people Zeke is fused with seem to be able to change to their normal bodies when they take over so that’s cool.”

“Yes but unless he gets my ability to make clones if we fuse, my kids will have to be without me again… something I promised myself won’t happen if there is not more at stake.”

”I think that would happen… hey, if Zeke is the Admin now, you wonder what his first Admin thing he’ll do is?”

“Knowing him? Attempt to find some way to get drunk… and fail. Even Devil’s Poison only gives me a very, very light buzz now, can’t imagine him.”

“Hm. Guess you don’t know dad.” I jumped. Looking behind me and seeing Zeke’s Tiara leaned against the wall.

“Seriously, isn't it bad to scare a pregnant lady or something?” I said with a shake of my head. “Alright DT, what do you think?”

“It’s not what I think. It’s what I have seen. Hm. I won’t say much, but dad gets real pissed.”

“I bet. Not ever being with power is a relaxed and down to earth as me… hell most aren't. Zeke has always had a slight temper. Guess I didn't help much… hell his last chapter was flat out insulting.”

“Heh. So far you still understand so little.”

“More than you will ever know.” I said, closing my eyes as what I saw from Truth started to become clear. “More than you should ever know.” I said, opening my eyes to the 4th wall. “More than anyone has the right to know.”

“Do you plan on ever taking it back?”

“One day… I will take back what is mine… but I have more important things to focus on that a silly, petty name… those doors showed me that much.”

“Heh. Interesting. Then tell me, what will Zeke really do?”

“Simple…. Fuck everything up… Heh… You know, I specifically made gray to be a booster in a way., based off my personality of wanting others to grow so no one has to fear the next day… and he will pervert it. He will pervert everything…. And with his power, it’ll take a man upstairs to actually give a shit to shop him, and good luck with that.” I sighed, setting down my unfinished drink and leaning forwards on the couch. “Everything I built my realm for, everything I made it for, ruined in an instant, because of his stupid, stupid pride. Gray was never ment to be good, or evil. It was meant to show that Good can be done in Evil ways, and Evil can be done in the name of Good. He will take advantage of it… of me. I am Grey...and he will ruin me.”

“And what will you do then?”

I looked up sadly at the keyblades before looking back down at my hands. “The only thing I can… I need to try and stop him. He… He doesn't understand that Light can already be evil, that Dark can be good… by screwing with the careful balance of things… he goes against even his own philosophy.”

“And pray tell, what will you do to prevent this idea of his from ever forming?”

I close my hand, tears flowing out of my eyes as I know the truth. My hand goes to my stomach, feeling a small little kick, making more flow free. “I need to join him… that's the only way I can see… I have a duty to fulfill… the final fragment.”

“The optional Fragment.” Tiara corrected. “Lest you forget, time can be rewritten, this idea has not yet been created. Therefore, you can alter Zeke’s perspective.”

I took a shaky breath. “He won’t even want to see me, let alone hear me out. Not after I gave up.”

“Don’t be so sure. Remember Zeke’s origin. You’re more than a simple friend to Zeke, your blood. Zeke never liked his eldest brother, yet when the moment came, he rather tossed him into the void rather than killing him then and there like he did your grandfather. He knows his grandfather was beyond saving, his brother, he had hope for. You need to remind Zeke of something.”

“That we are family, and what it stands for? What our family stands for?”

“Hm. You need to remind Zeke who he is. Right now, dad is letting the others take the wheel, wrapping up anything from their world up before taking control again and figuring out how to utilize their existence and powers. Tell me, did you ever know who Zeke was?”

“I think I did. He was a kind man, wanting to live a normal life. He strived to better lives, to break away for the stigma his… our family had. A brilliant hacker, amazing strategist… a friend… one who you could always count on. Now… now he is so, so self centered when he used to care about everylife. He was so selfless, now he can only see himself, and those physically connected to him.”

“You need to remind dad that he did good thing because he knew, he always knew that only he could pull off what he did, what he can do. He’s got it in his head that he was just doing it because others wouldn’t, because those meant to do this did not want to. You need to remind him that he did what he did because he knew it needed to be done, not because the others meant for it didn’t care or just weren’t there.”

I stood shakily. “I need to do this myself… no clones…” I said before waving my hand and opening a DTG. Before I entered I stopped. “DT… Why do this. What do you gain from it. Either way you still have your dad… so why.”

“Hm. The old master of time, retired. Cript kinda screwed up all timelines… so, to atone for that, me and my others will… make sure the better option course takes control. We watch time for all eternity, see the possibilities, and make sure the best one comes. Cript won’t have his power when it’s done, just his immortality. He doesn’t want the world he makes to become something it was never meant to be.”

“Let me guess, I make it a pain in the ass?”

“On the contrary, you make it easy.”

“Oh?... Would have thought my constant denial of fate and screwing with what has been planed would ruin the timelines that much more.” I admitted.

“Actually no. Wanna know why?”

“Sure, why not?” I said, using the time to Psych myself up.

“Because despite you being fateless, you still help others, do what’s right. There are many with your gift for denying fate, and all they ever do is help themselves, you help others. So, you first need to do one thing before heading off to find dad.”

“And that is?” I asked, closing the portal.

“Remember who you are.” As Tiara said those words… everything grew white… and I was… Here…

“Well now, what brings you back?” I saw Truth across from me, a blue card in his hand. “Come back so soon for this already?”

I smiled, chuckling as I slithered over to him. “Trust me Truth, the worst mistakes you could have done, was let me live, and show yourself.” I said before I raised up my X-blade and summoned all of gray, all of Insanity, all of my near endless mana… and now, all of my Drive forms and D-links, causing my very heart to become a kaleidoscope of color. “You dun fucked up.” I said as dozens upon dozens of keyblades circled me, A simple, yet signature smirk on my face as one eye was gray, the other red. “I’d like my name back, Please and thank you.”

“Hehehehehe. Well done then.” He said, snapping his fingers and… all my power was gone. “Relax, it’s just reverted to before you went Super Sayan on me. Heh. Congratulations, you passed one of Cript’s trials for you, and I’ve completed my end of our bargain.” He said, handing the card over to me.

“..... I’m going to kill my dad.” I said jokingly as I took the card.

“Hehehe. Cript knows you better than you think. You needed to forget who you are, before you can truly embrace who you are meant to be. Did you even notice the Keyblades, The Colors?”

“Well… not specifically.” I said sheepishly, holding onto the card.

Truth began laughing. “Your heart isn’t an Optional part TO this realms admin, which Zeke is now. No, your heart, is in itself makes you capable of becoming an admin. Hehehe. The Admins are a dying race, plagues by generations of newborns unable to use their powers without endangering their creations or themselves, those that took this fact in toe wanted to ensure the Admins lived on. In one form or another. For here, it was Kingdom Hearts and it’s hair, and you, your heart fragment ment to become a new Admin, for Cript’s realm, his admin guided him, and soon he took over the realm he was born into while it’s old maker went into a retirement phase. Though no peace lasts forever, nobody understands this more than him. Many of the old admins find newly created Admins like Cript and soon Zeke will be abominations that need to be put down, but fact is this new type of Admin is far stronger than the prior ones, in fact even Zeke could take out one of those old racist egomaniacs easily. And Cript has killed easily five, maybe more. Such a shame, their biggotist ideals are leading them quicker and closer to the extinction they are trying to avoid. It’s poetic in an ironic sort of way.”

“So, I'm basically a child admin… huh.” I shrugged “So, the admins aren't a title but a race, and because the young blood is so different, the old men upstairs are gonna be racist pricks and try to wipe us all out. So, what does that make you?”

“I am Truth. There are many of me, yet only one of me. I govern all of the rules and Laws of a reality an Admin oversees and make sure nothing changes those rules. The only one who can change the facts I oversee is my Admin, otherwise, it’s all the same always. Think of me as that annoying prompt on your computer that asks you if you wish for a program to make a change to your PC.”

“Oh dear God those are annoying… So, what happens now? I'm a baby admin, I am holding my name in my hand, and I'm that one Fateless bastard they no one can really predict but I care about others more than myself.”

“Hehehe. Tell me, in the new Creation that will go on for eternity, what Role do you expect Admins to take up?”

“Honestly no clue. As long as my kids are alright by the time my story is over, I'm fine. My focus is making sure their story begins with peace.”

“Well, the odds play out like this. Those who hate the generation like Cript, Zeke, and you if you take up this potential you hold, will try to eradicate you. There will be some years of war, this is unavoidable sadly. Those that settle into this new world will become what many call Gods, only, heh, well while they will lack the power to alter the reality, they will still be able to create, and as such will become gods for various things. Much like the ages ago when there was only Admins. Each will take up a role, helping govern those who seek faith. Or the very flow of this new world itself. Lord will return to his primary title, the Admin of Mentality. Anything you can learn, can build, can think, he will help you achieve it, not directly, but I’m sure you get the idea.”

I closed my eyes “If I accept, what are the rules of a admin.”

“In this world or the one to come?”

“Both. I want to know what I am walking into here. Can't afford to go in blind anymore.”

“Hehe. The rules of an Admin in the current world are simple. You get your own Realm, with it’s own Multiverse, you create who and who can live in their in the beginning, then let time flow and let the population and Evolution, heh, if you like that kind of thing, and while you can screw around in all kinds of things in your realm, you can not interact in certain events. What they are, well, you’ll know when your body begins to fight you if you want to enter this event. That’s about it really, heck I knew one Admin who’s realm was nothing but women he fucked and kept on screwing. Horndog of a Admin.”

“That's the second time I heard of him. Popular guy?”

“He was one of the more… eccentric Admins to ever exist. Anyway, the new rules mean that you no longer create whole realms, but you can create life specific to what you decide to tie yourself to. These Admins while eternal will not be immortal, you can and likely will someday die. Save for one.”

“Who?”

“Cript of course. He’s already immortal, and as part of our Deal I shall return to him something that will solidify his role in the new world.”

I opened my eyes. “I hate it…but besides Nexus, reality isn't my fight any more. It's time for new warriors to rise.” I said, thinking of Scootaloo. “Besides, I already started the mentor role. Might as well solidify it.”

“Heheh. I see. You’ll accept the role of Admin, but you wish to pass it onto a successor. Is that correct?”

“Oh fuck no. I just believe my role of main character is slowly coming to a end… it's time for new heros to rise up after my final fight.” I said with a grin.

“Hm. So you want to give this power to another, when your time is at it’s end then?”

“Meh, I'll get there when I get there. Maybe just put all it into a keyblade or something.” I said, hearing Lance bang his head against the keyboard. Weird.

“Heheh. Do as you wish then. Just remember, what you wish and what you get will always be different things. So what you get when your final moment arrives will be what you get.”

“I'm fine. As long as my family is safe when my time comes, I will have no regrets.” I said with a smile. “So, when I become a admin, what will be my title?”

“Ah, well that is up to you. Be careful though, the road to becoming an Admin is not something to take lightly. Perhaps Cript is better suited to explaining it.”

“Got it. And Truth, I hope you find peace for yourself.” I said, activating the card as my memories flowed back into me.

“Hehe. As to you, Colin Ventral.” He said… that’s me… Hehe… that’s my name, my true name… “Now then, go meet up with Cript.”

With a snap of his fingers, Truth opened the doors behind me, and I entered. I woke up back home. Cript sitting on a chair in front of me while I was on the couch. “Glad to see you passed.”

“So you knew I was basically a baby admin?” I asked, getting comfy.

“Yes. It’s something that can be random, or implanted into someone. I knew Zeke held the potential the moment I realized out looking alike was no coincidence. To be honest the lot of you have this potential. Ben, John, Okami, you. Even your Scootaloo. Never seen so many in not only such close proximity to one another, but who also know one another.”

“So, how is this going to go down? I know you are still training me to kill, but what will change?” I said, fiddling with a drop of Gray before reasorbing it.

“Well, to be honest becoming an Admin is… well, gaining the power is the easy part… actually becoming one is… that’s where the choice comes into play. I was given the exception because I was the first… no other exceptions allowed I’m afraid.”

“What choice?”

“The choice to become an admin, think of it like… taking information from a game or one program and entering it into something like an AI. Taking out the model, coding and all that from the initial game, or program isn’t exactly easy, nor does it come without consequence.”

“I have the potential, might as well achieve it.”

“You sure about that?”

“Cript… my story is ending. We are on the home stretch towards the final arc. I want to prepare for my role as mentor to the next generation… And what better way then accepting myself and becoming a admin.”

“You say that now… but if you do, you won’t change like Zeke did. Zeke became an Admin by Inheriting it, you’ll become a whole new admin. That process is vastly different than what happened with Zeke.”

“I'll accept the risks… besides, this way Nexus will be that much easier to handle, and you and Zeke won't fight alone.”

“... Then your a hypocrite.” Cript said, turning his gaze away. “Becoming a new admin, like how I did, involves erasing you from this creation and rebuilding you outside it. It will be like you never existed here. No one other than me, Lord, Truth and Zeke will remember you. You’ll lose your family, your friends… the children you are carrying. Everything. I got the only exception, because I was the first. You won’t get my merical.”

“...” I closed my eyes and let everything fade around me. Cript, the house, even the kids kicking. It was just me, my heart, all of it's connections, and my keyblade. “I'm lost… I have the potential to make sure everyone is safe… to protect my family for years to come… but… to be erased… I… I don't think I can handle that… what should I do…” I said inside my personal space.

“Aren’t you the one who screws with fate and the rules? Look, I don’t know of any other means of doing this, and sadly… wait a moment…” Cript said, a look of Realization on his face. “That could work… but in no way will it be easy.”

I walked up to my heart, no longer truly Gray, but still a kaleidoscope of colors, surrounded by miniture keyblades. “What could?”

“Well, when and Admin kills another Admin, they take over the slain Admins domain, and their power… it might be possible with the shard you have that, such an act by taking in their power and domain over their realm could count as Inheritance, like Zeke’s case. In which case you’d not only unlock your full potential, but gain new ones as well. I have a lot of enemies, so finding such an opponent won’t be that hard in all honesty.”

“As long as fate stays away… she looked like she was suffering under Nexus's thumb.”

“Yeah. You have a ways to go before you can slay an Admin though. Both in terms of power and combat skills. Power I can shortcut you to, Combat you’ll have to learn yourself.”

“Well then.” I said, accepting my shard as keyblades floated around me. “Let's get started.”

“Alright.”

Lord’s Personal realm for his living needs was like the out of bounds area of a video game, an endless white void with random buildings, things, and creatures about just scattered without pattern or reason. Makes sense I guess. I stretched while turning to Cript. “Remember, home in time to cook diner, or I’m gone.”

“Sure.” Cript said, leading me through all the weirdness as we came up to lord, who was sitting in a desk in the middle of nowhere. “Lord, she’s here.”

“Good. Good.” He said, writing something down.

“Long time no see Lord.” I said respectfully yet casually.

“Eclipsa.” He said, finishing what he was doing then standing. “Now then, Cript send me a message telling his idea, and it might just work. However, your body and powers are not quite ready yet to handle becoming an Admin yet, you don’t want to explode and kill your entire inherited Realm now do you?”

“Or my children for that matter.” I said in agreeance. “Besides that, As much as Discipline and Responsibility have finally been knocked into me, the earlier rather forcefully, I know I am not yet ready to handle being a guider for all life in a realm quite just yet, as much as I am doing well with an entire reflection.” I said calmly and cooly.

“Well whatever realm you take over won’t be that bad off with you in change, but before that, we need to alter your body and infuse power into you. Cript can pump the needed power into you while I alter your body, without harming your children or that injured mare within you.”

“So long that you do keep them safe, I see no harm. However, if it starts to go wrong, I want you to try and save spoiled, and if my children are far enough in development, them as well, and leave me. Lives of the next generation far outweigh the lives of the elder.” I told him

“Wise for such a young lass.” Lord said. “Now, stay still.” He said, raising a hand over me as my body felt… tingly. Cript placed a hand on my back and… HOLY SHIT! It didn’t hurt but I felt so… so… so strong! So… powerful… Is this how Zeke feels?! Is this how CRIPT FEELS?!

It was almost overwhelming. The occasional kick from my children being one of the few things snapping me back from reality, as even insanity felt overloaded from the sudden influx of power… that just seemed to never stop growing. Code. Fragments. Everything. “01010111 01101000 01100001 01110100 00100000 01101001 01110011 00100000 01110100 01101000 01101001 01110011 00111111 00100001”

It went on like this for… an hour I think, this process was just… overwhelming. When it stopped… I felt unbeatable… unbreakable… “There, that’s the bare minimum for the power requirements.” Cript said. BARE MINIMUM?!?! Like WHAT THE FUCK?!?!?!

“You’re telling me, that this is the bare bones minimum…. Holy jesus fucking satan in a gay bar…..” I said, rubbing my temples as I was still having sensory overload.

“... Pssst…. HA!” Cript burst out laughing.

“Hehe, that was funny.” Lord said.

Heh, yeah, it was. “Wow…. alright… uh… okay these really, really heightened… everything is going to take some getting used to.” I said before growing pale. “Gods… using gray mixed with this….”

“Now, just need to find an Admin that hates me.” Cript said.

“Should be easy.” Lord replied.

“Yeah it should. Give me a second. Oh, and Eclipsa, I’ll be leading them here so be ready to take the kill. Alright?” Cript informed me.

I nodded focusing before unleashing my, as Truth called it, super saiyan form, the mix of everything I have with a ton of keyblades circling me, with Oblivion and Oathkeeper floating at my sides while my X remains in my hand. “Ready.”

Nodding, Cript opened up a portal. Lord and I waited for… three minutes before Cript jumped back out of one, an armored Female Admin looking at him with what I can only say is the purest of hate. “Cript you unclean abomination! Die!” She yelled, throwing a spear, the impact creating a massive explosion that Cript side stepped.

“Carvisa, you psychotic bitch, meet my daughter. She’ll be your killer this evening.” He said casually.

“Wha-?”

“Such a gentleman.” I said, not even questioning how I was behind her as I brought the ocean to shore, the entire realm for a split second… or was it a nano second, hard to tell, turning into shades of gray before I sliced, all the keyblades following the one movement as the powers of everything, super boosted by gray, struck the woman in the back.

“Gah!” She coughed blood, looking over at me. That same hatred at Cript aimed at me. “You impure scum…” She wheezed, collapsing over.

“Not surprised those were her last words.” Cript said.

“That was antiClimactic.” I said with a shrug, not even caring about her words.

“When you are at the strength level, Admins aren’t much different to kill than anyone else, besides, she wasn’t that strong, she rarely entered combat herself, so I knew this would be a quick win for you.” Cript said, green… numbers began floating out of her corpse as her body began to fade, like a hologram or something. The numbers then flowed into me and…

I… Feel… Powerful… If it didn't make me feel sick..... It’d be intoxicating by how much it was. I used the x-blade to keep myself upright as I hunched over, the power overwhelming my already shot senses, the lines of code… I could feel it binding with every part of me… but avoiding my heart like the plague. “How… Handle….?”

“Hm? Use your sentences.” Lord said.

“How do you both… handle all this?” I asked, feeling slightly violated as code continued to swim through my powers… and hit gray, boosting its speed to almost insane levels.

“Well, I’ve always been an Admin, so I can’t say I’ve known the difference.” Lord said.

“I’m genetically built for this crap, I never feel the power but I know how much I have. In a sense you could say I’m a black hole for power, I never feel it course though me until I use it. Even then I never feel the strength difference. See it though.” Cript said.

I groaned, seeing the code of even the air around me flash in my eyes like a HUD. I panted and nearly screamed when the code finally tried to enter my heart….. You don’t know the meaning of pain. You could have been a soldier being tortured for information, broken to the point where you are a mindless husk… it wouldn't even be a fraction of this pure, raw, pain. I screamed and thrashed, instinctively placing wards over my babies and Spoiled so they won't feel a thing as I thrashed on the floor.

“Well, that was unexpected.” Lord said.

“Well this is a new method.” Cript added.

I thrashed like I was having a seizure, till finally my heart… no longer felt weak. After that… All the pain was just… gone. I felt so… well, tense, but my body felt… fine… better than fine. “Alright… pain over… wow… okay, this feels better now.” I said, picking myself off the floor and removing the wards.

“Great, it worked.” Cript said, clapping. “And hey, your heart is fixed.”

“Feels like it… my whole life since I could feel my heart I was always worried someone would target and shatter it… now… just wow.” I said, still blinking the code out of my eyes as they cycled through a bazillion different languages for the HUD effect I was seeing. Finally disappearing, I looked over to Cript. “So… what happens now?”

“Now… Well, guess we can see what Carvisa Realm was all about.” Lord said.

“True, it is now Eclipsa’s.” Cript said.

“So… do I just think of my realm or something?” I asked, having none of the instinct these two admins have.

“Well when we travel between realms of Other Admins then head back we just sorta… feel for where our Code is most present in the vast infinity. That typically is where your Realm is. Since you have her Code, you should be able to do that.”

I nodded and felt the code. When I first got it, it felt sickening, probably because at the time it wasn't wholly mine. Now though? It was only slightly less natural then gray to me. I pinpointed the area before opening a DTG, though this one had lines of code around its edges. “There.”

“Good. Now let’s see what this crazy bitch had in her realm.” Lord said, sticking his head through the portal, then exiting. “Well it’s all stone and dark as all fuck. It’s a castle and there’s an ugly troll/elf/goblin looking fucker waiting next to the portal with an Igor hump.”

“Not very creative.” I said calmly slithering through.

When I entered Lord was right. This was a large stone castle… very large, the little creature walked up to me. “Yous… yous smell like master, but no looks like her?” It spoke…. I can’t tell it’s gender...

“Your old master has fallen. I have inherited her power and her realm.” I spoke kindly but with a air of commanding.

“Ah. Yous new master then. Come, come. Meet others.” It said, leading the way.

“Oddly hot in here.” Cript said, following behind.

“Strange, I don't feel it.” I said with a cheeky smile as I wave my Naga tail.

“Must be her code.” Lord said, entering also. “While code works in any Realm, it is also unique to each Admin. You inherited it, as well as its current uniqueness. It will be a while before it adapts to you.” He informed. “For now, you’ve just adapted to it.”

“Ah well, I wish the code luck on completely understanding me.” I said with a chuckle, following the creature through the halls.

I arrived in a room where a tree creature was rooted, holding an orb. It looked up at me… It has… Six, seven, eight… ten, ten eyes… weird. “New Master, Rootworm.” The little creature said.

“Ah.” The tree thing spoke. “So the old master has finally fallen. And you took her place?” It asked me… Rootworm, I think it’s name is, at least, that’s what the little guy said.

“Yes, I did. She was surprisingly easy to defeat, but I suppose being blinded by rage would do that.” I said calmly, holding myself in the same manner when I am addressing those who worship me.

“Hm. Very well then. I shall inform her forces that there is a new master.” He said, the orb glowing.

“Forces?”

“Yes. The former master transformed her realm into nothing but powerful armed forces, to attack him.” It moved a branch towards Cript.

“Eh, not the first.” Cript shrugged.

I for one frowned. “Unacceptable and a complete waste… and she called us scum, abusing her position, abusing her role to have a army…. Wasted potential.”

“Well, not all Admins are good so, what do you expect?”

“I know that, does not change that it is unacceptable, and will be changed.” I said with finality.

“Well, go ahead then.” Lord said. “Your realm your rules.”

I closed my eyes, and tried to feel the code around me. So much hatred….lets fix that. I sent out a pulse of code, changing what life existed to have something they never had. Choice. Emotion. To live instead of just being alive. “Step one complete…” I said shaking my head. “Going to need to get used to that feeling however.”

“Alright. So what next?” Cript asked.

“No clue… I gave them freedom of choice and emotion… but I don’t even know where to start.”

“Eh, your Realm, your rules.” Lord said, opening his own portal. “You’ll figure out what you want, which, guessing you, is what’s best for them.” He said, taking leave.

Awww, that gave me some warm fuzzies inside. “Cript, dad, any suggestions?”

“Psst. You think I know what the fuck I’m doing?”

“I assume you at least have a base idea and then just let come what may.” I said with a smile

“Nope. I rarely ever know what the fuck I’m doing.”

I smiled and chuckled. “First thing I need to do is repair all the damage the original master had done, then maybe experiment from there.”

“Alright then.” Cript said, shrugging. “Be careful of other Admins who will try and kill you.” He said, walking off.

“Heh, yeah well, what's life without the constant looming threat of death?”

As Cript left and I began to look around this new realm of...mine… heh, that’s weird to say… “Hi.” I turned around, seeing… a kid? Bright, glowing gold eyes, a shining blue long hair, and they had a big smile on their face.

“Hey there. What's your name?” I asked with a smile.

“Hehe. Oh, that doesn’t matter, but if you must, just call me Ghost.”

Huh. “So Ghost, what do you need?” I asked. They probably aren't truly a kid, but until I know for sure, I'm going to assume they are.

“You aren’t completely wrong there Eclipsa.” They said… did they… hear my thoughts? “Yes I did.”

“Well that interesting. So what is it you need? What was your role to the old Master?”

They laughed. “Oh, just to be annoying. And they were not my master. Surprised you haven’t figured out who I am yet. I figured the hair would have given that away at least.”

“.... I blame the crazy day that I didn't recognize that power of yours…. Kingdom Hearts.” I said with a playful smile.

“Heh, please, just call me Ghost, I am dead after all.”

“Fair enough.” I shrugged “So, to what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Just left the refused parts of my heart I shattered, turning it into the balanced hearts Zeke and those others had. Yours was the only one left out of the bunch so that’s where I ended up. My last shard, not even mine anymore yet I’m still bound to it. How sad.”

“Oh…. Sorry.” I said with a scratch to the back of my head. “To be fair, you didn't really need me.”

“Yeah, that’s true.” He said nonchalantly, walking around me in a circle. “I’m impressed though, you took what was literally the scraps left after I shattered myself and made them rather powerful.”

“Well, even a child with a glimmer of light shines bright amongst darkness. I just took the scraps and trained them, forged them, and eventually made it my own.” I said with a chuckle “When did I become the wise one?”

“Eh.” He said. “Still, I’m here to tell you something.”

“Oh? Let me guess, another major threat that is going to take place on the now inert keyblade war?”

“Nope. It’s about your current least favorite subject. Zeke.”

I sighed “Alright, lay it on me Ghost.”

“Well for starters, as you can guess he’s not being who he truly is anymore, then again, neither are you it seems.”

“Meh, I just grew up. I'm still the lovable 4th wall breaking goofball who is too stubborn to die, but parenting just gave me a more mature outlook on things.” I said, summoning some paopu fruit to eat.

Chuckling, Ghost snapped their fingers, my Paopu smoothy vanishing. “There’s a difference between lying to yourself and growing up. You don’t even realize what you’re doing, do you?”

“What, gaining power so I can leave the adventure to the next generation? We both know this story is nearing the climax.” I said, surprising myself with how defensive I was being.

“Heh. Cute. You believe your own lie too. Tell me, how much as the Paopu fruit legend changed since I made it?”

“Well, it's supposed to link the destiny's of those who share it. I did it with the hubbies once I realized my pregnancy cravings we're for the fruit.”

“Heh, so only half is left. Now that’s sad.”

“Alright, what is missing?” I said, starting to get tired of this.

“The Paopu fruit links those who share one together, as well as aids in remembering those who’s bonds are weakening, or severed. Tell me, anyone been on your mind lately?”

…. ”you already know who.”

“And now you do.” They said, holding out both hands, each with a glowing orb. Between them a chain formed, then in the center it began cracking. “This represents the current state of yours and Zeke’s bond. Fractured, and the more Zeke falls into his current condition, and the more you ignore it, ignore him, the more it breaks until,” The chain broke, and suddenly there was a wall of energy between them. “No more bond… and no more bonds can ever be rebuilt between you two. Ever again.”

“What the hell was I supposed to do?!” I yelled out. “I had a choice between fighting a battle with no possibly of winning, even with my Fateless ass, or trying to get him to see as such before it consumes him and guess what, the ending would have been the god damn same!” Tears flowed from my eyes.

“True, the ending would have been the same… from a blunt perspective.” Ghost said. “If you had… convinced Zeke the event was pointless in the end, helped him realize what he already knew, but did not want to acknowledge, the ending would have been the same, but, he would still be himself, content with his destiny to replace me. Why? Because he would have had support. He didn’t ask for your help to fight against his fate, he asked you for help cause you of all people would have been able to make him realize it, and rather than stay and support him through his troubles… you left. Abandoned him… So much for Ventrals always look out for one another huh?”

I looked down at my hands. “Shut up.” I said quietly, so quiet it put Scotch to shame.

“No one likes facing the reality of their mistakes. That’s the difference between Admins and our creations… when WE live in denial… the consequences are far harder than as the average mortal. I guess that’s why Admins don’t really have families that we can hurt, much easier to accept a mistake when there’s no one but yourself that will hurt for it.”

I closed my hands, gripping so hard my nails drew blood. “I tried… he left before I could do more…”

“Then why didn’t you chase after him?”

I was silent… why didn't I? Was I really… so willing to quit on family… on Zeke, the first of my birth family to actually care about me, even if we never knew at first?... What kind of monster am I….

“Now then, what are you going to do about this little screw up then?” Ghost asked, turning around. “The bond is still there, but weak. What will you do to fix it?”

“Going to try and get through to him and apologize the only way I know how… like a Ventral.” I said, snapping my bloody fingers and creating a space where two beings of our level of power can duke it out without collateral… or the other dieing.

“Hm. Good call, sometimes a good fight, a way to let off some pent up emotions is the best call.” He said, his body, or whatever it was, beginning to crack. “Ouch, well this hurts more than expected.” He said, looking over the forming cracks. “I guess that shard of mine is now officially yours? No more room in it for me.”

“What… no no, that's…” but sure enough… the only thing that didn't feel mine was the code yet… “We can find away if you can just hold on for a little longer-”

“Eclipsa.” He cut me off. “I only look like a child. I’m older than a fourth of all other Admin creations put together. I wanted to die, for the longest time. But just because I wanted to die, doesn't mean my creation should be helpless. I set this up so one day, someone from my creation could replace me, and I could finally move on… Funny, we create an afterlife for our creations… but I’m not even sure if Admins have one. Aww well, guess I’ll find out in about, oh, two more minutes.” He said, the cracks now covering up over half his body.

I slithered over and took his hand. “Then… at least you are not alone… no one should be alone in the end.”

“Heh, maybe. Here. My last gift ever.” He said, handing me a small box, wrapped with a red bow. “Give it to Zeke, after you’ve kicked his head in.” He said, his body starting to vanish now.

“I will.” I said, giving him a hug, having just enough of a form to do so.

His body vanished, a final goodbye echoed through the room after he was gone… I felt a tear cry down, and I let it fall. It was strange… how I never… never even knew him… yet, It feels like I cared so much for him.

I held on to the box, letting Oblivion and Oath float around me, letting them mourn in peace. “It… Kingdom Hearts was the one reason I didn't just… end it back on Earth… Now that the real one is gone… it feels like he was one of my children… or I was his…”

”Whatever happens next… will be quite the future.”

“Yeah… but the future can wait… right now… I need to get my family back.” I said before snapping, hoping Zeke will forgive me sending us both to the space I created.

When I appeared in the space I made for us to fight… I was met with an unconscious Zeke. Was he asleep or…?

“Zeke, get up.” I said, dumping water on him to make sure he wasn't asleep.

...Nothing… I actually had to list him up to get the water out of his nose… he didn’t even caugh instinctually.

I checked his pulse, worry etched on my face. What I felt for a pulse was… weird. It was like constant vibrations… Crap, right, he’s Kingdom Hearts now, his heartbeat would be all hearts...

“Zeke, or anyone inside him, get up.” I said as I changed my sight to focus on what I know is Zeke's heart, which is not easy with the infinite other hearts, but I did it.

It seemed still, twenty other massively powerful hearts all circling it like planets around a sun. Damn it, how am I gonna wake him up?

I looked at my own heart and sighed. “One way to get a admin to act… Threaten their realm…” I said, not actually going to do anything, but letting all of my power flow out freely, using Insanity's bloodlust to make it seem like the intent was death.

...Nothing? What is up with him?

“Zeke, wake up man, your scaring me.” I said shaking his shoulders.

“He won’t wake up for a while.” Cript said, walking out from a portal. “To be honest I’m surprised this didn’t happen a lot sooner.”

“What is going on with him dad?” I ask, unable to keep the worry out of my voice.

“Well, he has twenty people in his mind, but those twenty were all of their own reflections. Their reflections mindsets and personalities range from identical to vastly different. In short his brain is processing them all, and they will be figuring out how much of each of the similar and vastly different personalities will be more dominant in the final phase of this. He’ll be fine.”

“Dad…. I screwed up… but I guess what is new…. This is my fault… I need to make it right.”

“... Okay.”

“How can I help him?” I asked, turning to look at Cript amongst the starry space we were in.

“Well right now his brain is doing all the work here, no way to help there. But do you mean another way?”

“I… I was planning on us making up in a fight… where he and I can go all out and not worry about the other dieing or anyone dying in the crossfire”

“Hm, well that can work.” Cript said. “So you don’t know Zeke that well though, huh?”

“With us living on different reflections, and both of us having our own responsibilities… I never really got a moment to just hang out where the threat of death wasn’t ever present or I wasn't a depressed mess.”

“Hm, here.” Cript said, lifting a finger as a large orb appeared, floating over Zeke. “Let’s see some of Zeke’s memories then.”

I sighed and took a seat, looking at the orb. “Let go then, let's make this as painless as possible.”

Nodding, Cript activated the orb, and soon the blackness turned to color, showing what was the backseat of a car. In the driver's seat was a woman, the passenger was a man… Is this an early memory of Zeke’s? This perspective looks… like that of a toddlers. “Hm, his first time seeing someone die. Looks like he was three.”

“Of course… he was raised a Ventral, unlike me… heh… he must have been envious…. As much as he shouldn't have been.”

The memory played, the two stopping the car in what looked like a parking lot. The two having Zeke seated firmly in the back seat as they left the car… armed. Zeke said just looking around. He turned, seeing the car door open next to him as a man in leather entered, grabbing him and running off. From this perspective, Zeke could see his own parents shooting at the building, a bank, before his mother turned, seeing the man running off with him. She seemed to have yelled at his dad, who immediately, with reflexis that I didn’t even see Josh with, fired a round, the next thing, Zeke looked at the man, whose head exploded all around him. They collapsed, Zeke crying, his small arm broken from the fall. His mother ran over, picking him up, but not before taking a few extra shots into the kidnappers torso. She then took Zeke into the car, his dad jumping in with a small bag of cash before they drove off. The memory ended.

“Yeash, that was darker than I expected.”

“Yikes… though not as bad as it could be.” I said, remembering the day I watched mom die….

The orb lit up again, this time it looked like Zeke was in front of a Computer. “First heist.” Cript said.

Zeke was typing. All this techno stuff was beyond me. When he looked out a nearby window, looks like he was in a Starbucks while two others walked into a bank. Gunfire started as people began panicking, Zeke sighing, rolling his eyes as he drank some of his what I assume is coffee. He closed his laptop, walking off and around into a small antique shop. “Morning sir.” The old man behind the counter said.

“Hey Jone.” Zeke said, passing him, walking behind a staff only door, down a ladder leading into the sewers, where sections were redone to be small armories, cash stashes, high end computers, the works. Zeke placed the laptop on a table and took a seat. About five minutes later, the two that entered the bank came down.

“Damn those cops were trying.” One spoke, tossing what must have been a literal million dollar bag of cash.

“Yeah, but you sure hade Dad’s aim Dillen.” The other said, carrying the other bags of equal size to the first.

“Eh, just me Kevin.” Dillen said.

“So things went well?” Zeke asked.

“Yeah, no thanks to you.” Dillen said.

“Come on man, Zeke deactivated the security features and cut the silent alarms. We would have been lucky to make it out of there with only a fourth of this loot.” Kevin said.

“I agree with Kevin. You don't make as much money when security is working properly.” I said

“It wouldn’t matter if Zeke here would just pick up a gun and help us. He’s got the eyes, his killing mood alone would level this fucking city.” Dillen said. “Instead he prefers to sit back and let us do the hard work while he keeps his hands clean.”

“Dude come on, Zeke did his part and we made out with over four million in cash.” Kevin said.

“Still… it’s a waste of a family gift.” Dillen said, the memory ending.

“Damn. Heh, they would of HATED me. The fact that I was a Ventral who did even less than Zeke.” I chuckled, though I knew Cript knew I was not being self centered, just coping in my own way. I knew Zeke was going through a form of hell, your own family calling you a waste. I just… Sigh, next memory is ready.

It showed Zeke was laid in bed, a hotel room, looking up blankly at the ceiling. The TV was on in the background but he was not even gazing at it. There was a knock at the door. “Come in.” Zeke said.

Someone entered, Zeke looking to his side and seeing someone… interesting. He was thin, wearing a hoodie, long black pants, and had a box with him. “Well, here it is man.” He spoke, placing the box on the bed. “One Ps2, a copy of Kingdom Hearts 2 and Resident Evil four.”

“Thanks.” Zeke said, reaching into his pocket, a large wad of fifties in his hand. “Here, take it.”

“Heh, overpay much?”

“And you care why?”

“Eh fair enough.” The guy said, leaving. After a bit Zeke got up, and took out the Re4 and KH2 games. “Finally, been wanting to play these forever.” He said, his voice held some enthusiasm compared to the prior memories.

I smiled, remembering my first Kingdom Hearts game, a small tear falling down my face. The hope and joy it gave me… I can see it was the same with Zeke, the genuine smile on his face said enough.

Zeke then began hooking up the playstation and popped in Kingdom Hearts two. The memory played for a while, showing him beating the tutorial section before heading off to Hollow Bastion. As he was reaching the final boss there he sighed, pausing the game before walking over to the bathroom, closing the door and counting down. “Three, two, one…”

Suddenly, the sound of the hotel room’s front door bursting open nearly overtook the room. “FBI Ventral! You’re under arrest!” Someone yelled as marching into the room lead to banging on the bathroom door. Sighing, Zeke grabbed a Gas Mask from under the sink as well as several canisters labeled ‘Tear Gas, Smoke Bomb, and Flash Grenade.’ He saw the door about the break and pulled the Flash Grenade pin, the door breaking open as the grenade gave off a light that blinded all. When it faded, Zeke was outside already, tossing a smoke grenade at his feet and behind him down the other hall, the halls getting filled with the smoke as he entered an elevator, the smoke filling it as he rapidly reached into the elevators ceiling escape hatch. He then from there entered some vents and slid through them til he exited an intake vent out the back near the parking lot. “Fucking hell. Really wanted to at least get to three worlds before they came.” He muttered. He then found an unlocked car, and hotwired it with expert effort and drove off. The memory ended.

“Damn, never even got passed Hollow Bastion. That sucks.” Cript said, munching popcorn.

“Radiant Garden… and yeah…” I said, feeling selfish of how I've acted towards Zeke… and yet he always stood by me… I failed my Brother from another mother.

The next memory showed Zeke looking over a large crate of high end weapons. “... So you’re all just gonna go into the city… and shoot everything?” Zeke asked.

“Hell yeah!” That voice! Josh?! “If it is the end of the world I’m going out with a bang nephew! I even got some of our fam in Russia sending over a tank! They’re gonna drive that around some neighborhoods.” And I think I know how I died back on earth now… “So your folks taking ya to their own little set up for you lot to hold up in.”

“I’m not that superstitious.” Zeke said. “It’s up over in Ohio. If you wanna come say hi we’ll be there.”

“Eh, maybe. So, what will you be doing?” Josh asked.

“Sleep maybe.”

“Huh, well, take some anyway, even if you don’t join in the shootouts, your parents will have enough to defend.”

“They stockpiled enough from Aunt Nancy.”

“Ah. Well good luck to ya then. I’ll be off shooting up Chicago.” Josh said, Zeke walking out, only to be tripped by his brother, Dillen.

“You’re so worthless.” He said, Grabbing Zeke and tossing him against the wall. “You waste those eyes. Why do you hold back damn it?” He asked, kneeling down to Zeke and grabbing his throat. “Why?”

Almost emotionless, Zeke spoke. “I’m not… a demon…”

“Ha! You’re born into this family. You have the eyes to prove it without a doubt. Your skills in combat against Uncle Josh, Dad, even me show you match us but we both know you hold back… why?”

“I don’t… want to hurt you.”

“Oh, so what is it? Don’t wanna hurt us or anyone.”

“No… I just know I’ll enjoy it, once my heart starts racing.”

“Ah, so it’s your Killing Mood you’re afraid of then?”

“Part of it.”

Dillen let go of Zeke’s neck, but gave him a hard punch to the jaw. “You can’t keep living life afraid to let your heart beat. I know you, you enjoy a challenge. All those games, you play every single one on the hardest mode. Every family gathering when you enter the shooting range, you pick the crap guns, hell you hit the target a mile away with a god damned crossbow! You live for a challenge… so why hold back where it counts?”

“... Then where would the challenge be?”

The memory faded.

“Heh, looks like that’s something Zeke and I share.” Cript said.

“That's why I want us both to go all out though… I know I haven't reached his level… I may never hit that far. He is always a step ahead… but I can provide him a challenge, I know I can. My heart tells me that, and who are we if we don't follow our hearts?” I said, saddened but determined.

“Yeah, we’ll see when he wakes up then. So, how are you gonna handle this then?”

“....When do I ever plan that far ahead? Cript, I may know discipline now, but I go by my gut and heart at everything I do.”

“Heh, fair enough.” Cript said, standing up. “Zeke’s gonna wake up soon. You best be the one he sees rather than me.”

I nodded and summoned my x-blade “Do I have your permission to do this? I will be fighting your new parent, but not to kill or even really hurt, only for us both to let off steam.”

”As long as it’s just to spar.” Better half spoke… woah, very authoritative voice there.

“It is. If we cause any damage to each other it is a part of the spar, even if we both won't be holding back if my plan works.”

I'm Back B****es!!

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Zeke woke up in a bit of a haze. “Ugh, what armored assault truck hit me?” They groaned, rubbing their head.

“So, you’re awake.” Said a familiar voice… Eclipsa. She sat in a seat while all around the two empty space spanned on for who knows how long.

“... So this is my personal hell? Huh, figured there’d be more fire, red hot spikes and internal bleeding?”

“No this isn’t hell. Trust me, been there. Fine place if you don't mind crazies and for Jason Voorhees to actually help you out its so bad there.” She said, standing up and slithering over to Zeke, her seat vanishing. “We are in a space built for the sole purpose of Admin’s dueling without either truly coming to harm and yet allows them to go full out without collateral.”

“...Okay, so who are you gonna fight?”

She didn’t answer at first until she summoned her X-blade. “Zeke, you and I have some things we need to work out. And as much as we both aren’t ones for the Ventral traditions, a good ol’ duel will have to speak louder than words.”

“...” Zeke stood up, and walked away. “Where’s the exit here?” I already know my DTL’s won’t work here so where’s the exit?”

Faster than Zeke thought Eclipsa could move, She struck him… and it actually hurt. With a boom Zeke was flung away, his nose dripping with blood from the punch. “No Zeke. We are doing this. You and I… we are Equals. It’s about time you saw me as one.” She said, allowing everything she has come to bare…. It was more than Zeke imagined. Each power complimenting and boosting one another in a never ending circle of power… the longer it was active, Eclipsa was only going to get stronger with no repercussions.

“...” Zeke got up, fixed up his clothes, and just sat down. “No.”

“No…. heh. So that's it then? I knew you were as stubborn as me…. No that isn't this. You still think there is no point, is that it?!” Eclipsa said, her voice steadily growing in volume.

“... You have power, there’s no doubt, you have training, maybe matching mine. But in the past… even when it seemed impossible… I always won. Didn’t matter their armor, their weapon… Do you know why, I never used all my power, even before all this. Even back on earth?”

“Because you were hoping to lose. You desperately wanted to lose, just as much as for the longest time I just wanted to win at something. The difference, you’ve given up. Even when it stares you in the face, you give up. I know I did wrong by you. I shouldn’t have given up… But that gives you no right!” She says, closing the distance slowly.

“... If you spoke to your dad, my uncle, he could tell you this. My scores. Rang skill with all calibers, ten miles, shells is five. Pressure per square inch on a punch, three hundred pounds of pressure. In reality, it’s tripple for my range skills, my aim, and force behind my punches is closer to six hundred, and that’s before all this power. My speed is close to a hundred. Lie, I was able to run almost two hundred. Already that was MUCH faster than a normal human. I knew from a young age I was not normal. I blamed my eyes… my blood. In a way… I guess I was right. I knew from a young age I was built to fight, the proof was undeniable. I never go all out… because what if I like it? If I go all out, feel that rush… if I like it, and don’t stop… I’ll become what I never wanted to be. Addicted to the fight. Even if it’s against evil… when they are all gone...because of me, how long til my addiction make me… hurt someone I care for? If I never feel that rush, then I’ll never worry about this problem.”

That just seemed to piss her off more. “You are an idiot. Because guess what?” She bent down to eye level with Zeke, Red to Red. “There will be those to stop you from going that far, starting with me. And the first step to preventing you… is to break your chains.” She said before pointing her X-blade to him. A beam of gray shot out of the blade… and Zeke felt his personal restraints on his power start to crack.

Zeke grabbed the tip of her X-blade, and they were eye to eye. “I don’t want to fight. You’ll just get hurt.”

She smiled “Copies rock.” She said, another, far more pregnant Eclipsa waving from a portal before vanishing. “Besides. Let’s test… Strike me with a single hit of full power. If this body is destroyed in a single hit, I will let you go. Otherwise, we will duel. Do we have a deal?” She said, Zeke feeling the sealing power of this deal of admins.

“Fine…” Zeke said, taking Eclipsa’s head, and rather than hearing a snap when he spun it backwards… it just spun all the way around. “Yeash! That’s…. That’s nightmare fuel for sure…”

She giggled. “That actually kinda tickled. But, a deal is a deal, is it not?” She said, taking a step back…. And appearing 100 meters away in a nanosecond.

“Awh crap.” Zeke said, ready to fight, but not summoning a Keyblade.

She chuckled, one of her eyes turning silver and glowing while the whites of the other turned to black. “Lets both stop playing, and give each other a true challenge.” She said before appearing in front of him in a human form, her long, light brown hair flying behind her as she kneed him in the gut, not even wincing from the hit to Zeke’s Keyblade body.

Zeke caught himself on the landing, pointing a finger and… Eclipsa turned blue, and then got slapped repeatedly. “My Sans from Daybreak taught me this. I have to admit, I never used it til now.” Zeke said, throwing Eclipsa many distances away til the blue wore off.

“Clever.” She said, vanishing through a portal of gray she formed in her path. She was then flung out that same portal, now wielding Oblivion and Oathkeeper, though the two were shining brighter than normal. When she got close, she unleashed her gray into her flurry of attacks, each swing having enough power to wipe out a reflection.

And Zeke, like Sans, dodged with equally blinding speed. “My turn.” Zeke said, Eclipsa going blue again, rising into the air and blasted with…. Gaster blasters, wrapped with chains of light. “He also taught me how to make these. They’re normally for show.” Zeke said, slamming Eclipsa around some more before tossing her into another hail furry of Key-Gaster Blasters.

Eclipsa continued to smile, even as some cuts and bruises started to form. “Limit Break.” She said, suddenly her power, for a moment, eclipsing even Zekes. Floating all around her were keyblades… but not any that Zeke could hear. They were all made by Eclipsa’s connections, with others, her D-links, Her connection with her keyblades, her connection with gray. All of her memories and struggles, all of those from those Eclipsa cares for… Even Zeke. “You want to see my power? You want a challenge? Then come get it!” She says with her smile, The smile even Fate would recognize.

“Hmm, well, if you insist.” Zeke said, dodging her attacks, turning her blue again, but rather than slamming Eclipsa about, summoned countless Keyblades like floor spikes, impaling her across them repeatedly. He then finished it off with a Key-Gaster blaster hit. Zeke didn’t even notice his smile.

Breaking out of the dust cloud, Eclipsa donned the power of a Red soul, ignoring any further attempts at a blue attack as she charged for a close quarters fing, her countless keyblades following and drilling their way through.

Zeke’s Keyblades met hers, as it they dueled, and Ecpisa had to admit, Zeke’s skill at dodging was impressive. It was then, she noticed his smile. Eclipse’s smile became less about the rush, and more of joy as the duel continued for centuries, though for the two it felt like only a hour, the two to a outsider seemingly fighting to the death, but to them, it became almost a game.

“Hmm, I’m gonna try something new here.” Zeke said, vanishing then reappearing a ways away, countless Keyblades appearing embedded in the ground around him till they went passed what the eye could see. “Graveyard Reunion.” At that, light silhouettes of people appeared next to each and every Keyblade… and picked them up. “Oh cool it worked.” He smiled, pointing towards Eclipsa. “Gank her.”

“Only fair I try something.” She said, dodging the attacks fluidly almost as if dancing. Before a magic circle appeared. Gray oozed out of every pore on her before phantom copies of all those near and dear to Eclipsa, even those without keyblades appeared and started kicking ass. “Gray Truth.”

“Hacks!” Zeke called, dodging another attack from Eclipsa.

“Says the one summoning a army!” Eclipsa laughed as she landed a roundhouse kick to Zeke’s arms, which were blocking his head.

“Bad call.” Zeke said, his arm changing into a black version of the X-blades tip, giving Eclipsa a large gash down her leg. “One good thing Kexez did was learn to transform parts of his body into X-blade form.”

Gritting her teeth despite her smile, Eclipsa grabbed and held onto the X-blade transformed part of Zeke while summoning her own. “You forget I’m a crazy little monkey.” she says, ignoring the blood running down her leg and palm as she strikes Zeke across the chest.

Before the force knocked Zeke back, he grabbed onto her arm, and headbutt her. Hard, a visible crack in Eclipsa’s skull echoed a thunderous pain, but that wasn’t enough to take her smile away, after all, Zeke’s head got bruised it seemed.

Eclipsa staggered, panting as she wiped some blood away. “Now… this is fun.”

“Heh… yeah.” Zeke said, falling to his knees. “I’m not the only one who thinks so.”

Zeke’s body became wrapped in blood, it turning dark, almost black… then many eyes opened.

“I’m getting Hellsing Ultimate vibes.” Eclipsa chuckled, casting a quick cure spell over her major wounds, but keeping the minor ones to be sporting.

“Behold!” Spoke a booming voice, loud, immature, but clearly older and wise than it let on. The blood left, leaving behind a taller figure, dressed in red, wielding two very large handguns. “It’s the red undead sassy man who can’t help but tap all the ass! And you my fair girl are giving me a ranging stiffer watching you from inside Zeke. Care for a quickie before the fun begins?”

“Depends. How much of those genetics are my cousins and how much do you think the hubies will kill me?” Eclipsa said, possibly her being covered in her own blood making her less...against the idea.

“Hey if they get pissed I’ll fuck ‘em too. I’m not stingy. As for the genetics I have no idea but didn’t Cript say that as Admins genetics mean nothing? Eh, doesn't matter.”

“Awe fuck it.” Eclipsa says, pouncing on the tall, red clad vampire.

Alucard then shoved his gun between her legs… literally. And fired. “I can’t believe you fell for that.” He said, kicking her off then shooting her more. “Now how is it you’re that much of a horny slut?”

“Over here.” She said from behind him, the Gray clone vanishing from beneath Alucard as Eclipsa fired her own gun to the back of his head. “Oldest trick in the book.”

Despite being headless from the shot, Alucards body turned around, and fired two shells in both of her eyes. “You know I take much, much, MUCH more than that to kill me right?” He said, his head reforming. “Bitch I’m bullshit and fourth wall breaking all in one. How well can you match?”

“......hehehehe. Hey Lance, Bio, Does this guy even know just what the fuck he just signed up for. Oh my god you think you are the baddest bitch in the room here? Ass wipe I insult the writers on a day to day basis!” Eclipsa said with a slightly crazed laugh, but one that still felt good natured.

“If it’s for an orgy dibs on being the guy in charge of lube!”

“Come on, We both know, despite the cussing, sex, gratuitous amounts of blood and gore, Bio will never make Keys into anything more than a teen rating.” Eclipsa tisked.

“I know, and it’s depressing, but off camera, or rather off page stuff is free game! So, put up a scene transition ya cowardly bitches!” Alucard said, raising his guns. “We’re gonna go out of our rating for this.”

“Fair point. Besides I’m sure Scotch, Star and Blitz will just find it kinky.”

“Now that was some fun.” Eclipsa said, relaxed and a slight dopey smile despite being covered in even more blood than before.

“You said it. Last time I saw this much of my own blood I was fighting that Dandy Man prick.” Alucard said, hitting his knees. “Welp, my boner is gone. Time for someone else to take the wheel.”

Darkness covered Alucard… and from it, emerged someone Eclipsa did not expect to see… Core. “Okay… so… hi?”

“Hey Core… Been a while since we fought… and since you trained me.” Eclipsa said before remembering She looked like Wolf at that time. “Remember the student you had all those years ago… the one that got you and Unum together before disappearing suddenly?”

“Yeah… I figured that out already. Heh, Unum was right. Even as the bad guy I was still pretty clueless.”

“Heh, you bet your ass you were.” Eclipsa chuckled.

“You know, out of all our fights you still never beat me. Wonder if that will change?” Core asked, summoning his Keyblade.

Eclipsa chuckled and summoned her X-blade. “If you want to, why not…. master.”

“Alright then.” Core said, shifting into a Dark Impulse command style. I smirked and changed into Time Splicer, wanting to fight my master fairly, the way he trained me.

We stood there, daring the other to move before I launched forward, “Hasteza, Stopza!”

Core smirked, ducking into the darkness. Avoided the stop spell then emerging behind Eclipsa. “Impulse Leech!” He said, striking her back as a dark blob formed, Eclipsa feeling her energy zapping away rapidly.

“Equalibrium!” I shouted, summoning Oblivion and Oathkeeper, each shining with light and darkness as I glowed gray, Hasteza speeding me up to ludicrous levels.

Core backed up, vanishing then reappearing, slashing Eclipsa quickly before vanishing again.

Eclipsa closed her eyes, focusing on a skill Core himself taught to her, focusing on his location before he was there, not when. With reactions possible only by a trained god, Eclipsa Caught Core with her tail before cross slashing his chest, following up the combo with a dual wielded Ragnarok.

Jumping back up, Core smirked, rushing to her. She raised her Keyblades, only for Core to grab them. “Infection!” Oaths colored as were Oblivions became inverted, the two rushing to him. “I didn’t teach you everything… mainly cause I learned this when I was a nobody/Heartless.” He smirked.

Eclipsa smiled, Summoning Better Half and her shield. “You’re not the only one whose learned since our time together.”

We clashed, Core backing up, forming Oath and Oblivion into an upside down cross. “Purger.” Eclipsa kneeled over, vomiting violently as Core slashed her across, the stomach cramps not weavering.

“God damn it, and I thought you were a dick as the bad guy.” She says as she stabs Better Half into the ground, pumping gray like an infection, spreading faster and stronger than any darkness ever could. “Everything is Gray.”

Core Backed up, Darkness flooding around him. “Home Wrecker.” He said, charging at Eclipsa.

Eclipsa stood there and smiled, the world turning into shades of gray as she prepared to block with her shield. “Et ut mundum ex griseo invenire locum pro devium meam.” She said, her red eye starting to become the only color in the world.

There was an explosion, and when the dust settled, Oath and Oblivion with Eclipsa again and Core on his knees. “Heh, since when did you got all big and strong?”

“Heh, when I got my head out of my ass and learned some discipline.” Eclipsa told my old friend as she offered a hand.

“You? Discipline? Heh, and here I thought I already ended the world.”

“I know right?” Eclipsa chuckled.

“Well, someone’s up next…. Have fun.” Core said, darkness covering them… Then, emerging from that darkness was… a short, blond kid.

“Yo.” They said.

“You’re new. The name is Eclipsa, you?” I asked with a smile.

“Meliodas.” They said, pulling out a large dagger of some kind, a Keychain at it’s end. “Gotta say, never having to lose this thing again is nice. So, you strong?”

“You could say that. Heh, one of the only people who can actually challenge my cuz Zeke.” I said with a smile. “But now and days I’m really nothing special.”

“Same here. These days I’m just a tavern keep. You?”

“Well, Motherhood, Godhood, preparing for a war, and now becoming a admin. You know, nothing big.” She shrugs.

“Oh. So in other words I’m more relaxed than you will ever be?”

“Pretty much.” Eclipsa giggled, covering her mouth with one of her hands slightly. “But I wouldn't trade it for anything.”

“Same. So, shall we?”

“Why not? Any rules? I could fight as a human or a naga, and restrict ourselves of certain abilities?”

“Meh, I’m not picky.”

“If you say so. I’ll just be human then. Need to practise as one more often anyways.” She said, turning into her tan skinned, light browned haired, DD cup human self. “Never will truly get used to the changes I’ve gone through.” She chuckled.

“Meh,. Now then, let’s see what you can do.”

Eclipsa smiled, her eyes flashing as she summoned Redemptor, the blade of mana and Gray in one hand, and her X-blade in the other. “May the best being win.”

“Hehe. We’ll see then.” Meliodas said, smiling as he raised his blade.

Eclipsa smiled before finishing in to gray, observing the being… but not underestimating him.

Meliodas for his part, stood still and waited for her to attack.

‘Clever.’ Eclipsa thought before striking from everywhere with the gray still left over from Core’s fight.

She struck, casting Thundaga. Meliodas smiled, raising his blade to meet the magic. “Full counter!” He said, the second the spell made contact with his blade the Thundaga was sent back at Eclipsa with the power of ten. She dodged, smirking.

‘So he can reflect any attack? And return it stronger. Wonder to what extent? Is there one?’ She thought, dodging his slash and blocking a kick.

“Say, you’re good.” Meliodas said, the two locking blades.

“Not bad yourself, what with a amplified reflection power.” Eclipsa said back.

He grinned. “Yeah, it’s my little battle hack. Works great when my opponent is stronger than me.” The two clashed blades, Eclipsa feeling something off. Somehow he felt… slightly weaker. Acting fast she summoned her Shield turning around Justin Time to see a second him.

Two?! She thought, dodging both and keeping a distance. “You can clone yourself?”

“In a sense.” Meliodas said, the copy phasing out. “It cuts my power evenly between each copy though, so I try and use it tactically.” He said, raising his weapon. “So, let's get back too it.”

Grinning, Eclipsa rushed in, charging grey along her blade into an extended ethereal sword. Grey Blade Charge. Meliodas raised his weapon to block, the attack phrasing through his defenses, striking him and sending him across the ground.

“Woah.” Eclipsa said. She'd never used a command style before, and now, her element altered its normal state of magic and attack, making it phase through defenses. “That… will come in handy.”

Before she could react, she was slammed into the edge of her battle arena, blood covering her mouth, the iron taste coating her tongue. Meliodas was now… different. There was this aura about him, his eyes changed to black and there was this symbol on his face. A darkness seeping from him. It wasn't like the darkness of a heart, it was different…. It FELT pure, not like void either… it was evil. There was no other word that fit. “Well now, takes a lot to make me use this.” Meliodas said, even his voice, while unchanged sent chills down Eclipsa's back.

“What… are you?”

“Heh… I told you… I'm a barkeep.” He said, shouldering his weapon. “Though. Back home, many know me as, Meliodas, the dragon sin of wrath, captain of the seven deadly sins, and former captain of the demon clans elit, the ten commandments.”

“A...demon?”

“Yeah. I gave that up for humanity, for why, well, I guess… it's just preferred them.”

“Well, at least you aren't evil “

“Evil is relative to those who view it. The shortest example of evil, is a purely selfish act, be it big or small. There is so much that goes into the definitions of evil and good, but in they end the lines are so blurry that they end up the exact same thing. Selfish acts for different reasons, be them kind or malevolent.”

“Are you here to talk Philosophy or fight?” Eclipsa asked, raising better half.

Meliodas raised his weapon. “Enchant Hellblaze.” A putrid darkness covered his weapon. “Come at me, if you're that cockey.”

Gathering her Grey and Stance, the two charged in, time felt slowed as they clashed weapons, the putrid darkness and the purity of Grey clashing. The aura was like a twisted storm within a hurricane. Black Carnage twirling rapidly within the vortex. Their energies danced in a brutal, painful dance for power as they clashed in the center, neither giving in. Meliodas was powerful, tactical, and experienced. Eclipsa was driven, strong and stubborn, the two could have fought like this forever, and in this time warped realm, they did.

For the two within this world eons passed, while only minutes passed in their home realms. This time did change Eclipsa. Her once slim figure was now that of a worriers, her human half muscular and toned from the eons of combat while her snake half, while the same in terms of size, was harder, battle scarred and tougher, the blunt swing of her tail half could easily shake or even destroy a small world, and the pressure when she constricted it around a for could easily shatter Vibranium. Truly her endless combat with Meliodas was something the likes she has never experienced. A true, fair challenge. But this fight needed a winner. She needed to move onto the next opponent.

Charging herself, and Better Half with Grey, she rushed in, clashing with Meliodas, then, wrapping her tail around him, the pressure she was forcing upon his small yet sturdy frame would have killed normal people. To him, however, it was restraining him, allowing Eclipsa a clean and focused strike to his torso.

Laughing, Meliodas fell to his knees. “That was fun.” He said simply, eyes human in appearance rather than their demonic black.

“Heh… yeah.” Eclipsa replied, wiping some sweat from her forehead.

“You're almost ready.”

“Hmm?”

“Hehe. Look at yourself. Stronger, faster, your body is now reflecting your experience. Your power. In terms of raw power, Zeke out classes us all in here. But while you fought me, he learned from everyone within, the ones he is linked too. The dead, the unborn, all of them. He has training, but learning for as long as you and I have been fighting from near endless masters, all I've been doing is buying him time.”

“So while you and I fought this while time… Zeke's been practicing in there?”

“Yes. We all have. Learning what we all can do, truly. When I head back within, I will do the same.”

“So… you're all stronger now?”

“Yup.”

“That smug cheater.” Eclipsa laughed.

“This coming from the chick whose power is literally to supercharge literally everyone and everything she touches? Herself especially.”

“Heh, fair enough.”

“I'll see you later on.” Meliodas then was covered in a dome of darkness.

Eclipsa took the moment to look herself over, seeing Meliodas was right. Her body looked like that of a fighters, a worrier. She felt prideful. In this fight she managed to finally have an opponent who was not only worth fighting, worth the effort, but was enjoyable, and she learned so much of her own potential, yet still not what she can do.

Eclipsa looked up to the dark dome, waiting for the next opponent. From the top of the dome emerged… a top hat? “What the?” Eclipsa questioned.

Soon two gloved hands emerged, the dome shrinking as a Tuxedo wearing man emerged, his mask that of a goofy take on a skeletons face. “Hey howdy ho!” Mors said.

“Mors! You.. you’re human.”

“Yup! Seems Kexez managed to fix what Core broke in terms of my hearts darkness. Have to admit, it’s nice to have actual normal sized fingers again, though since I’ve been so used to my oversized hands, it’s an adjustment all over again.”

“Makes sense.” Eclipsa said, readying herself. “So, what will you bring to the table?”

“Oh, just my usual brand of combat, have to admit, it feels great to wield the X-blade again.” He said, summoning said weapon. He then proceeded to toss it up into the air, grabbing it at the near tip of the blade. Wielding it upside down.

“You… weild it upside down?”

“Yes. It’s different, something I came up with in my youth. I always wanted to stand out when I got my Keyblade, so I practiced with my Starlight like this, and when I got X, I kept the style.” He said. “So then, shall we-” Mors dodged Eclipsa’s thrust, smacking her hard. Eclipsa felt the wind knock out of her, the large normally gripped end of the X-blade hit her like a large wall, sending her flying some miles. “My my, quite impatient.”

Eclipsa quickly recovered. She was used to Meliodas’s combat, but Mors was different… he was a wild card. She grinned, another challenge. She rushed in, this time ready to cross slash him, only for Mors to stop both swings with one block, the large grip/handguard like ends of X stopping both her Keyblades in their tracks. Mors then slid X into her crossed weapons, slamming her nose hard then again between her breasts, cracking her rib cage dead center. Wincing from the pain, Eclipsa used Grey-Cure, her own Grey infused Cure, healing better than even Curaga. “How the-?” She said, interrupted by Mors slipping the tip of her tail into X’s into the grip and twirling it, like a fork with spaghetti, spinning Eclipsa around so fast that to say it was all a blur would be an understatement before slamming her hard into the ground. “Ouch… Why is my eyes spinning?”

Mors laughed. “I call that one the Funky Hammer.”

“How do you do that?”

“Hehe. Still have so much to learn, not just about your own skills, but about Keyblades as well. Hehe. Reminds me of an old saying. ‘Thee who holds the title of master of keys, understands little. Thee who claims to know everything about the keys, truly knows nothing.”

“So in other words I still have a lot to learn. Yay…” I huffed, getting back up. “Then come on, teach me.”

As with Meliodas, who trained Eclipsa’s body, eons passed yet again, training her mind and skill. Learning not only how to handle an adaptable, random and wild foe, but also how to use her Keyblades more proper. His time as X’s wielder, Mors was known as the Bunt End Wildcard, for his sporadic combat style that was near impossible to predict without a bit of luck, or foresight. As such, Eclipsa learned an important lesson within these eons dealing with all of Mors’s random attacks and patterns. Adaptability.

Another thing that was important was quickly determining what attacks of your enemy you can dodge, and which you can block, and withstand. Having such a large body ment it was harder to dodge, even with enhanced speed, Mors knew where to strike predicting her dodges with near perfect accuracy, only missing a handful of times. As such, Eclipsa learned to, subconsciously, chift to human form to dodge, then back to Naga for attacking. Her shifting process now taking under half a second, and still sure it can be less. Still, she has yet to even Strike Mors, the spastic movements of his attacks and dodging make such a feat tricky.

Even toned to be a worrier, This foe, was a challenge. And a challenge, is something Zeke and Eclipsa live for. “So tell it to me straight, are you all training me?”

“Yes.” Mors said, moving as if boneless to avoid Eclipsa’s blinding flurry of attacks. “Strong you are, talent you have, and you have power to keep it up. But proper skill, you still lack. Zeke knows there is always room for improvement. It’s why he is training from within. While one of us at a time trains you from outside.”

“I see… so after all of this, I get a rematch?”

“Or earlier. Like you, Zeke is a talented, stubborn student. But he is learning from the oldest and wisest of us all.”

“Who?”

“Unum, who else?”

“Wait, so his wife is in there too?”

“That Unum was born after the reflections were created. She is not truly Unum the first Wielder of X, who was born before them. She and Unum, the X-blades first wielder, are different completely. Aside from that, Zeke’s wife Unum holds a heart of pure light, not Balanced.”

“Oh… Okay then… How do you dodge so well?”

“Well, let’s just say that while I am human, my particular variation of human is extra jointed along our entire skeleton.”

“Oh… that’s actually cool.” Eclipsa said, raising her X-blade. SHe slashed it through the air, a shockwave of grey energy lashing out to meet Mors, who raised X, and slapped it aside like he was playing baseball. “How do you do that?!”

“I just do.” He replied, Preparing to block Eclipsa’s strike raid. “Surprise you’re going with such a simple att-” Mors was cut off, the Strike raid ready to his his block… only for her X-blade to puff in a flash of light. “What?!” He said, receiving a hard, swift slash to the back, sending him across the floor, though not too far. He stood up, disbanding the X-blade and began clapping, applauding his opponent. “Bravo. Bravo Eclipsa. That was the most impressive display of a fake-out I’ve ever seen utilized in combat. How did you do it?”

“Oh, you know. A Keyblade when used in a Strike Raid sometimes requires its wielder to summon it back to continue a combo. I took advantage of that. I knew you’d raise X to block such a simple attack, meaning for a second, maybe even less, your attention is elsewhere. I took that time to move, summoned it back to me when I was close enough, timing it so you had it right in front of you and got my hit.”

“Haha! You realized in normal combat you couldn’t hit me. So you crafted a means to strike me by tricking my attention. I am impressed. Mose Keybladers never think to actually move once they throw their Keyblade into a strike raid, they often wait and leave themselves at a disadvantage. I am very impressed with you.”

“Hehe. Thank you. So, are we gonna continue or?”

“Another time sadly.”

“Huh? Giving up?”

“No, it’s just that attack really impressed Zeke. He wants that rematch now.” Mors said, a dark dome covering him.

From the dark dome, Zeke emerged. Eclipsa quickly realized he was taller, more muscular and fit that before. His typical hoodie, jeans and sneakers replaced with a black trench coat, white shirt and pants with black boots, “Yo. Seems we both got a bit ripped huh?”

“Hehe. It would seem so.” Eclipsa said, raising her X-blade. “So, are you going to fight me seriously?”

“Hmm… Tell you what.” Zeke started, summoning X in one hand, a second X-blade that screamed Trixie in the other, and from his back floated other X-blades, all their keychains were chains of light linking to Zeke’s back. “I’ll use my full power, this move will likely knock me out. If you take it, and stay conscious, then I guess it’s a clear winner.”

“Heh… Bring it.” Eclipsa said, grey flowing around her, this amount was new to her. More than she’d ever conjured. It was blinding.

Zeke took a breath, smiled, and for the first time in his life, felt his heart beat with the thrill, of a true opponent. A true challenge… and let his full power out. “Come on then! Show me you! ARE! WORTH IT!” He said, the tips of all the X-blades and his heart, all glowing with the purest light and darkness, fired, the power was blinding as well, for Eclipsa, one would describe it as tranquility, for Zeke, it was like looking into the faces of Evil and Good at once. “Hearts Power!”

Zeke’s attack hit, Eclipsa, not even screaming, smiled, feeling the attack, the pain was far, far worse than the shift to an Admin, yet, she kept her smile, not screaming, eyes open through the tears of pain. She was determined to remain conscious. To win.

The attack ended. Zeke fell to the ground, all the X-blades disbanding, He was heaving. He felt tired, no energy to speak. The fact he was awake was amazing to say the least. Eclipsa was in a similar state, still, but she began to twitch. Her one defyant arm she was forcing to pull her naga body across to Zeke. Zeke, forcing out some weak strength, managed to do the same, to meet her half way.

Ech movement was agony, each pull torture, but still they continued, eventually meeting halfway, and grasping each others hand. “Heh… thought you said that would knock you out?” Eclipsa asked, her voice raspy, and dry.

“I said most likely.” Zeke replied, voice just as dried and raspy. “So, you did it… guess you win.”

“Heh… bearly. I feel like crap.”

“Same. Heh...hehehe.” Zeke said, laughing as tears ran down.

“Hey, what’s with the water works?”

“Hehehe. My whole life, I thought, and was proven right that no one could beat me, especially if I gave it my all. I held NOTHING back on that attack… And you stayed awake… Hehehe. I lost, giving it my all. I’m not at the cap… I’m not the strongest… I can actually improve…”

“Hehe. I tried to tell you.” She cooed and laughed.

“Well, you beat me… there’s only one reward I can offer to that.”

“I get a prize? Heh, and here I thought it was just bragging rights.” She laughed. “So, what is it?”

“Me.”

“We’re cousins.”

“A, we both know given how you are, you’d likely not even care. B, not what I meant.”

She chuckled. “True enough, but what then?”

“Eclipsa Ventral… You… … are… my… wielder…” Zeke managed to say, falling unconscious as his whole body shifted. He was a X-blade now, the crossed keyblades that made up the grip and handguard part were two Kingdom Key D’s, the white main blade part was black with swirling light within it.

“...Heh...cool…” Eclipsa said, falling into unconsciousness herself. “We’ll be… one heck of a team..."