> Pony Gaze
>  by ROZONROZARK
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Arrival
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Waking up hurt. No, I take that back it felt like every part of my body hurt. What the hell happened to me. Okay backtrack Joe what happened.

~Flashback~

I had arrived at a convention dressed as Oz from Demon Gaze, well mines the sword often seen in his picture. I had managed to recreate most of his attire with clothing around the house and colored contacts for the blue eye. The armor was harder to do but after some creative work I got it done then for the chain I just used an old dog chain. The only addition I added myself was a key ring on the belt with ten keys in it.

“Come on bro perk up.” Turning I saw my older brother, Phil in his outfit. “We are having fun at the convention with friends!”

“I’m not depressed, just embarrassed, Jeriya.” True to the character he was dressed as in the few seconds that I had been talking to him he had found a girl to watch. “So, everybody remembers where we are going to meet up, right?” Looking at the others I saw my friends in their costumes nod before departing.

“Well that was rude of them.” Turning back, I saw Phil still standing by me. “Well shall we head out,” in a second, he had almost blinded me with his smile before walking into the crowd.

“Seriously what did you use to get your smile so white?” I asked following him as best I can.

“L’Oréal because I’m worth it.”

“...That’s a hair product.” I think, I can’t remember.

“Exactly,” I heard him say as he checked out a weapons booth. Now some people would automatically assume that he was joking but having survived him for eighteen years I had learned to just accept it. “So little booth lady you have anything for me?” Much like how in less than ten seconds Phil was checking out another girl.

My brother and mine relationship were a rather odd one. From the outside we were total opposites. Whereas he was outgoing and always found joy in life, I on the other hand was introverted and always kept the same blank face.

“Sigh, remember not to spend all your money,” walking around him I checked out some of the other tables but nothing came to my attention while Phil checked out that booth. As my eyes wondered I saw something that drew me in.

It was the sword demon slayer, the one always seen in Oz’s picture. “I see the Demon Gazer has come for his sword.” Following the voice, I felt myself tense slightly when I saw The Merchant from Resident Evil.

“Didn't think anyone would have it.”

“Tell you what, seeing how authentic you look I’ll give you the sword and this,” my eyes went wide as he pulled out from somewhere a large shield and a brown bag, “for three hundred dollars.”

The shield looked like a large mirror was put into a shield shape. “Deal!” I said laying down my Visa card before stopping. “You do take Visa, right?”

“Don't worry you, I’ll take care of it you have fun.” I saw him pick up the card and put it in his sleeve as I hooked the bag to the other belt that didn’t have the keys. Before I could do anything about the card, I felt the ground pulled out from under me as a weightless feeling overtook me.

~End of Flashback~

‘Right, that's what happened’ I thought to myself as I started getting up only to stop as I saw the Demon Slayer fall right in front of me. It fell tip first into the ground right between my legs causing me to turn toward it. ‘Wait if the Demon Slayer fell down then where is the shield?’

Thunk!

‘There it is,’ I moved my hand around from my position back on the ground. Grabbing it I pulled it in, as I reached up and grabbed the hilt of the sword and pushed myself up. Looking around I found myself in some kind of underground area. “Wait if I’m underground then how did you two fall on me?”

Sense I probably wasn’t going to get an answer from two inanimate objects I figured that the next best course of action would probably be to find out where I was. Looking around I spotted a door that hopefully lead out. So, I took it and followed along the hallway outside. After a while I came across an intersection and just looked at three ways hoping for a sign or something to tell me which way to go. While I was considering how to find the correct way out, I heard a scream come down from the left way.

“Well I’m sure that isn’t human.”

“Backup!” A voice yelled from down the same hallway. I could also hear faint sound of some sort of fight.

“Well there is a fight going on over there but they don’t need me.”

I thought I heard another voice say something before the voice came back, “I don’t care about that we need help!”

Letting out a sigh I turned and ran down the hallway. What, I at least had to see if there was anything I could do to help first before showing heel. Reaching the end of the hall I saw that it ended in a wall. You might be thinking that this would be obvious but considering that I could hear the battle happening on the other side it caused me to stop and stare. Plus, the glowing pink gear symbol was a bit concerning to. The fact that I recognized it was even more. The symbol was meant to show where hidden doors were in the Demon Gaze game but only if you had Comet or Aries equipped. Shaking my head, I looked again but to my disbelief it was still there and shining.

“Help!” Hearing the voice yell from the other I decided to avoid confusion and try kicking the wall in front of me. To my shock the wall shattered revealing a door, “Hey did anyone else hear that?” Well there went the possible element of surprise I might have had. Gulping I opened the door only to be greeted by a group of weapons pointed at me.

“Where did you come from!”  Turning slightly so I could keep the other in sight I saw a
female with red hair and yellow steaks, her eyes were a bright aqua color and she wore a golden band with some type of crystal horn on it. I would have taken in more of her but the weapons at my neck and the fireball in her hand told me not to. Oh, did I forget to mention that? Yah she was holding a small fireball in her hand and had it pointed right at me. Now under normal circumstances I would be wondering how this could be possible but I had other things to worry about.

“Door, right behind me.” I got out as quickly as possible.

“Where did that door come from? It wasn’t there a second ago!” That was the voice that I heard earlier. Turning slightly, I saw that it a member in golden armor that shone with a somewhat mysterious force. The only thing I could tell for sure was her eyes were a golden color. I do mean that in every way since I couldn’t even tell if they were male or female. The other two were similar to the first but had midnight blue armor instead of gold. I would have again taken more in again but a light pressure from the steel at my throat told me otherwise.

“Well answer the question!” Redhead shouted as the fire expanded. Well only one thing to do, lie and hope they believe it.

“The door was hidden, when I kicked it from the other side it destroyed whatever was hiding it.” Okay that was a good excuse, good job brain.

“So, you came from behind the door?” One of the guards in black with a weapon asked pushing the weapon forward.

I opened my mouth to respond when I heard a wet slapping noise. Either someone was having sex or… Turning my head slightly I felt myself lock up as an armored zombie walked into the small room. I thought I might hurl from the sight and smell of it. It wore what might have been silver armor at one point but was now so rusted it looked brown. As for the walking corpse it might have been human at one point but was now so rotted and burn it looked like a painted in human with red, black, and green skin with the occasional hole through it. It had what’s left of its eyes trained on us before releasing the most ear-piercing scream. A light blue arrow flew through its head before it froze entirely. Taking a quick peek revealed that it was one of blue knights who shot the, for lack of a better term, magic arrow.

“Dam it they broke through. We need to move!” Pushing forward, the others and I almost instantly agreeing, ran through the door. Taking the lead, I ran until I reached the original intersection.

“Shoot which way,” I mumbled to myself before I saw a blue light flash from the north. I blinked once before I took off running down the hallway followed by the others. At the end of the hall we reached another door which I quickly slammed open. Running into the room I looked around it quickly praying to see something to help. I heard some talking behind me before I felt my body move by itself as the shield moved and intercepted a fireball. “What the hell!”

“Why did you lead us down a dead-end!” Miss redhead yelled as more fire flowed around her.

“Calm down Sunset, I’m sure he has a reason, right!” The gold armor one stressed walking forward and taking off her helmet. Yes, I said her because the second she removed it a bunch of green hair flowed from it and it also revealed her more female form.

“Totally, I have a reason,” I said quickly as I continued scanning the room. I saw the other two watching by the door which was frozen in a block of ice.

“Please, like you could do anything. Were in a locked in room what could you- “

“Found it!” I happily ran toward the wall ignoring the confused stares behind me as I kicked the glowing symbol revealing the hidden door. I ignored the door for the most part as I threw it open and quickly ran up the steps. “Please lead outside,” I kept mumbled to myself as I ran through the opening into a destroyed building. Letting out a sigh I walked forward a few steps and fell on top of a rock I saw.

“Wow guess you were right Lemon; he did know the way out.” The bow user said walking out of the stairwell. Now that I think about when they pointed their weapons at me was that bow one of them? Because who threatens people with just a bow?

“Yeah told you we could trust our new friend.” The artist now known as Lemon, but formally as green hair, said carrying her helmet with her. Speaking of her where was her weapon or was she a spell thrower like miss ketchup and mustard. Furthermore, friend? I think person we just met is a better description.

“He is not our friend! He is merely a passerby that helped us! And for the last time I’m not your friend!” Hey speak of the devil and it shall appear. Wait, nobody implied being friends with you. Huh, must have happened so often that it became automatic.

“Ahh, don’t mind her she’s just embraced.” Hmm, with how she acts maybe she is a tsundere. “Oh, never introduced myself,” taking off the helmet revealed blue hair with different shades of blue also running through it, “name’s Indigo Zap.”

The other moved forward, “Names Lightning Dust, and in case you haven’t caught the name of the crab over there it's Sunset Shimmer.” Removing the helmet revealed yet another female with pure, slicked back, silver hair, “So what is your name friend?”

Huh interesting names, oh well might as well introduce myself.

Crunch

Slowly turning my head, I saw a giant zombie push away walls and rubble as it walked toward the surface. The thing looked exactly like the Tank from Left for Dead. Which provided me with the answer I never wanted, what it smells like. Which is horrible, in case you were wondering. “Well shit hope he isn’t fast.” I mumble getting up slowly as it looked around.

“We have to kill it,” I heard Lemon yell putting on her helmet and drawing a short spear. I looked to my side seeing both Indigo and Night putting their helmets back on and taking out their weapons. Wait, where did Lemon get the spear?

Indigo took a few steps back as the Tank spotted us. What if it looks like a Tank, acts like a Tank, tries to kill you like a Tank, then you call it that. Then proceed to try and kill it or run away screaming. That being said it left me in a slight predicament seeing as how I was kind of scared, like really scared, but at the same time I didn’t want to leave the only people who could help me. Oh well, guess the only one thing to do. Stand to the side a little and hope I don’t have to help. Now take a few steps to the side and look like you're going to help. Good, now hopefully nothing bad happens.

“Ugh,” a groan sounded out beside me. I would like to say I didn’t freak out but that would have been a complete understatement. My arms flailed wildly, while my eyes shut in fear, I heard the sound of metal ring from my left telling me my shield hit or blocked something as my other waved towards the noise, slicing through something. Opening my eyes slightly I saw Demon Slayer had sliced through a zombie that had tried to sneak up on me. The poor rotted flesh was soon dissolved into black smoke around me. 

Turning to see what my shield hit I was greeted to the site of Sunset setting the Tank on fire, which lead it to charge her, and her screaming and jumping behind a damaged wall. Unfortunately for her I was occupied with the axe wielding zombie in front of me. Hoping my luck holds true I swung the demon slayer and thankfully sliced through the zombie with ease.

“Help would be appreciated!” Huh sounds like Sunset isn’t doing well. I turned slightly to have a look and saw that the tank was knocking down walls while paying no mind to the fireballs or anything else thrown at him.

“Why the hell is it so intent on killing her?” I mumbled to myself. I mean it wasn’t even focused on me, thankfully, or the others who were being swarmed. Now here was the hard part, to help or not to help. On one hand I was the only one not occupied with zombies, while the other would involve facing a built sponge.

“Ahh!” The fire mage yelled as the roid rage zombie tore off walls to start throwing at her. Unfortunately, one of them managed to successfully hit her knocking her down.

“No choice,” came from my lips as I started running at the tank. ‘This is so stupid,’ my brain shot at me as I swung my sword as best I could at its unprotected back. It dug deep into the things flesh but unlike the other zombies it wasn’t enough. My swing left a gaping wound on its back but besides that seemed to leave the zombie unaffected. ‘Told you,’ thank you brain I thought bringing up my shield as one of the massive arms swung at me. I felt the force of the things swing start to send me back as my arm vibrates a bit. As I peeked out around the shield, I saw the tank start walking towards me.

Thankfully before it could reach me Sunset seemed to have taken the chance to set the wound I left on fire. I think, I mean judging by the smell of cooking flesh it seemed reasonable. As the thing flailed around, I took the door provided to me I Concentrated. Rushing forward I swung my sword as hard I could. 

“Terra Bane.” Then right before my eyes what should have been one massive hit became two as a bloody x was painted on the tanks body. With a final scream the thing dissipated into black smoke.

“Nicely done kid,” A voice said right behind me. As I turned, I was greeted by the sight of a heavily armored man holding a spear. His hair was blue with lighter shades running through it and soft blue eyes. “Though I don’t remember you being part of the investigation team.” Ah crap, was I in trouble? “I’m going to have to ask that you come with me.” Yep, I was in trouble. Well this walk should help me come up with some excuses.
> Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sunset watched as the field commander, Shining Armor, interrogated the boy that had helped them earlier that day. Though it hadn’t happened yet, right now he was just sitting in the room fiddling with a set of keys. “This doesn't seem right.” Indigo mumbled from behind her. “Guy did nothing wrong.”

“Your just saying that cause you want him on the team.” Lightning replied back. “I got admit though his ability to find doors is interesting.” 

What significance did they have that he wouldn't give them to the soldiers unlike the sword and shield which he happily handed over? They didn’t poses any magic in them, unlike the weapons, which had above average amounts stored in them.

“It would be nice to have another member for our search team.” Lemon stated their opinion. “I mean he did pull us out of jam.” 

Sunset briefly stored her line of thought about the keys, having concluded that they had sentimental value to him, to think about what the others brought up. The ability to find hidden doors was useful… but could she.. would she let someone else join her team? The team Princess Celestia gave her to search the ruins of Equestria. Which for some reason have been acting up recently. Sunset had her theory, but without further research or proof remains just that.

She was chosen over Twilight, given a team unlike the friendless student. Not that she needed her team’s help. Sunset was given a mission by the Princess and was only occasionally checked up on. Yeah she was the one that demanded that she be given more opportunities to prove herself and gain power.

The recent dungeon they entered was only a minor error on her judgement. It had been notably more  traps and illusions then expected, which had quickly gotten her team turned around and lost. Sunset did admit that when the guy showed up, and helped to lead them outside, it was reliving. Not that she wouldn’t have thought of a way out.

But what had kept her attention on the newbie the most was when he assisted her taking down the large zombie. “Did any of you recognize the final move he used?”

“Huh, what are you talking about?” Lightning asked barely caring. Of course she didn’t notice, probably to busy focus whatever she was doing or getting out of whatever stupid situation she was in.

“Do you mean that weird thing he did at the end?” Indigo asked. “I only kind of saw it after the royal guard showed to help take out the rest of the zombie horde.” 

“Yeah there were so many of the undead. It was almost like it was a necromancer tomb.” Lemon threw in her two bits.

“Oh do you think that there really is a necromancer in there.” Lightning asked with renewed interest. “Maybe we should take care of it. You know before someone not as capable as us comes by.”

That was a good point but, “There hasn’t been an actual necromancer in Equestria in over fifty year. The only reason there still are rotten corpse walking around is because of their leftover magic.”

“Oh that’s lame,” glad those winds were taken out her sails. “Hey look Shining Armor is about to begin.” Sunset’s eye twitched, the fact that she wasn’t allowed to help in the interrogation irked her. But now she might get answers, to who or what he was.

********

I was very confused, they took away my sword and shield because they were magic, but not my demon keys? I could sense my connection to the keys, well one key right now, but the others just seemed to be waiting for me. So where was Terra? In the game he was removed from the MC at the end of the game and became an equipable item.

Second thing to come to my mind was who I now was. If I knew I would be turned into a game character I would have chosen someone more powerful. Like maybe… Goku or… I don’t know, Asura. Hell even the MC from Demon Gaze 2 then the demons would be party members and I could fuse. But no I had to be lazy and go with Demon Gaze, where I could only use one demon at a time and not even command them.

Thirdly, what level was I. In my game I was around level fifty if I remember correctly. But now I don’t know, I knew I was at least level five seeing as I had Terra Bane. But then what were my stat spread? Following up on that is that why I could only feel a connection to Comet. Don’t get me wrong I was glad that I was able to see those hidden doors.

Man getting lost in my own thoughts was no fun. ‘Plus now you're an isekai character.’ Thanks brain, you’re so helpful. 

Hearing the creaking of the door opening drug me out of my brooding as my head snapped up. I watched as the captain guard… person entered. He wore the same band with a crystle horn on it that I saw a few others wear. Tho his headband was a more royal blue with a pink crystal. And I mean I’m guessing he’s captain, seeing as he is the only person not wearing gold or black stormtrooper armor.

“So care to tell us what you were doing?” The man asked. I should really get his name, and give mine to.

“Hi name’s Oz, nice to meet you.” Wait that’s not my name, oh well keep rolling. “And what ‘doing’ are you referring to?” Oh my god mouth if you get me killed…

“Shining Armor, Captain of the Royal Guard, and the ‘doing’ I was referring to is you being in a dungeon you shouldn’t be.” They actually call them dungeons? Yep I got Iswekaied.

“Well, funny story about that. You see I was just relaxing, checking out some nice merchandise,” I started before fantasy Captain of Wherever I am raised his hand silencing my mouth.

“By merchandise do you mean you were shopping?” Ah pressing me for details.

“Yeah, I was out shopping,” in a sense. “So as I was checking out some the shops I saw this guy wearing a black coat and bright yellow backpack. So being me I decide to see what he had. Cause you see his stall was empty.” Once again his hand shot up.

“And it didn’t strike you odd that his stall was empty?”

“Not really, it was close to lunch and there were no food vendor's around him. Now back to what I was saying. When I got there I saw he had some really great items,” Okay he raises that hand again I’m not going to talk to him again.

“Let me guess when you pulled out your wallet, he took it then teleported you away?”

My jaw fell down for a second, “Yes, that exactly.”

Shining let out a sigh as he rubbed his temples while he pulled out a cylinder device. “He’s clear, just a grab and send.” Wait is this so common that they have a name for it! 

“So I’m good to go?” Please say yes.

“Not quite. While you didn’t intend to you still appeared in a restricted dungeon.” Oh, god damn it. “Now don’t worry like I said you didn’t intend to break the law. I’m sure even a new lawyer could get you the minimum sentence. So you’ll just have to come with me to Canterlot.”

Elder god damn it. “Fine take me to your leader.” I mumbled into the table as my head laid, hopefully, pathetically against it. As I moved my head up I saw the captain staring up at me with pity.

“Ah chin up man. Once we get there you can just use your bank account, get some money, and pay the tiny fine.” If my susbishen was right I didn’t have any money. Outer god damn it.

“And if I can’t pay it?” Please let it be light, please.

“Well, if you can’t then you’ll just have to work it off.” Not bad, not bad.

“Okay then let's get going.”

“Good, this works out perfectly.” Shining said getting up from his seat.

As he left my brain took the moment to assault me with every thought it could. Thanks Brain, I’ll give you a raving review, in HELL!

*****

Sunset followed Captain Armor as he left the room. To think Oz was just some random guy who was tricked, and by the oldest one in the book no less. Yeah he was strong but his lack of intelligence, as far as she’s seen, was a major hindrance.

“Ah, Sunset good to see you again.” The Captain’s voice brought her out of her thoughts. “Been awhile since your last update meeting.” Not long enough in her opinion.

“Yeah I’ll grab my journals, we can get this over with as soon as possible.” Sunset always hated this part of her mision. The update meetings were always a pain for her, although the books or messages Celestia sent her were always nice. She could do without her bring up Twilight every so often.

“Actually I’m here for something else.” He said before pulling out a scroll with a seven armed sun seal. “To my beloved student Sunset Shimmer and her Exploration team.” At the mention of them the her team perked up from whatever stupid conversation they were having. Probably trying to figure out what Class Oz was. Wait what Class was he?

It doesn't matter to her, she was just curious. “It has long been sense you and your team have left on your quest. It would bring me much joy if you all would join me at the Grand Galloping Gala. I look forward to getting to see there so that we may catch up personally and I can deliver something very important to you.”

As the captain finished up the letter Sunset’s mind went into overdrive. What was so important that Princess Celestia wanted to deliver it to her personally. “So we going boss?” Indigo asked with barely concealed excitement. It was no secret to anyone that her and Lightning Dust were attempting to get into the Wonderbolts.

“Yeah we’re going,” her mind still a whirl as she considered every possible thing. One thing was for certain, she couldn’t afford to miss this.

“Great I will let the Princess know you accepted.” Tucking the scroll under his arm Shining started to turn around, only to be interrupted by Lemon.

“So we bring Oz along with us?”

“Well Canterlot is the best place for him to be put on trail. Don’t worry though we will return all of his items to him, and keep at least two or three guard with him at all time.” Shining reassured casting a glance toward the cell where the could see him with his head firmly planted on the table. “Now with all that settled we should head back towards where you were staying. I doubt you left your stuff here at some random guard post.”

“Yeah our hotel isn’t far. We’ll grab our stuff, and meet back up with you. Sooner we get to Canterlot the better.”

“I agree it will at least be two days travel by sky boat.” Four if they hit rough weather. “Which means will be right in time for the party.” With that Shining made his leave. With a glance over her shoulder to make sure her team was following her Sunset followed his example. She had to get ready to meet HER teacher.
> Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

You know most people would be ecstatic being on a flying boat! Me on the other hand, I was miserable. Turns out that after about thirty minutes or so my mind and ADD thought that it was too much like flying in an airplane. So now here I was a day after arriving in a new world filled with magic and riding on an airship bored out of my mind. Yesterday I slept in a cell in the drafty old guard house only to dragged onto the ship. Not my worst flying experience, that goes to when I had to wake up before 5 to catch two different flights after working till 12 am.

You know reminiscence sure does kill time. But I should use it for more important things. Like figuring out WHERE IN THE HELL I AM. Following that logic, I started searching for a nice library or book cove. 

‘Well that was a waste of time’ my brain informed me. Despite this boat being the size of a nice navy ship it seemed more built to carry large amounts of people with some comfort. Like there was a kitchen and dining hall but much else. I guess I should be grateful that everybody’s room came with a toilet and nobody had to have roommates. Except for apparently the lower ranking soldiers and me. The reason I Now know this is because of a gold stormtrooper who ran up to me. He led me to where I would be staying, a cot in the corner of the room, thankfully there were no bunk beds on this ship.

Having fully investigated the bottom maze of the ship I slowly made my way upstairs. Having checked earlier I regretfully couldn’t kill any time on my phone. I miss my phone. I miss the internet. Walking above deck I saw the sun start its descent in the… west, hey I was never good at boy scouts.

“Oh, look who decided to come top side.” Turning my head away from the array of colors the sun was making as it set, I saw Lemon sitting around small fire with other gold and black troopers. “Come on over, we were just about to do a guard pass.”

Something on my face must have given away my confusion because I heard one of black troops chuckle. “Listen civie the guard pass is where the sun guard pass off their duties to us harder working night guards.”

“Harder working my ass, if I didn’t find the kitchen so dirty every morning, I might call you okay working.” One of the sun guard, see I learn things brain, retorted causing a few chuckles to pass through the circle. Though if the gold meant morning then that meant Indigo and Lightning were night guards, maybe, I need more info. Seeing an open seat between Lemon and a random sun guard I took my seat.

“Come on guys don’t scare him away. So as Bushwhack was saying the guard pass takes about an hour so we usually use the time to catch up with each other sense the others are catching up on their sleep.” Huh how relaxed, I think. I mean I’m not in the military or anything but an hour for people to get to their stations and swap info sounds good.

“Newbies got it right although with this type of trip only some of us are actually needed. So, the rest of us try to keep the others busy.” One of the night watch explained happily.

“Is that your excuse for dirtying the kitchen?!” The grumbling sun guard yelled.

“Gives you sun lovers something to do doesn't it?” The night watcher explained as if it made perfect sense. “I mean if it’s not enough work for you we could always do better.”

“Please don’t the man has been going to bed with a mop and broom for the past few nights.” Sun guard two with his face in his hand causing the first to shoot him the most betrayed look ever. “So how about you civie what's your story. I mean that dungeon supposedly hadn’t been explored in ages. How’d you get in?” Ah the old topic change classic, now if only it hadn’t involved me.

“Oh, you know the old teleport and grab. Bastard took my entire wallet.” Thank you mouth, being useful besides bringing me fresh air.

“Man, that sucks,” Night one said leaning back, on the air, how? Looking I saw that somehow, he had produced tiny wings on his feet. Kind of like the depictions of Hermes in Greek mythology except that these were pale blue and see through. “So, let me guess. Shining has you on track to be put on trial.” At my nod the guy let out a sigh. “I like the guy and know it’s part of the reason he became captain, but does he have to do everything so by the books.”

“Yes, I do.” Everybody around me and totally not including me, shot up at hearing the stern voice. “Now scoot over I have a few things to add.” Like the red sea a fresh spot was made for the heavy armored man. Though that might explain why Shining’s armor was so different than the others. “Those rules were made by the Princess or those before her and all of us took up an oath to protect and uphold them.” As his gaze swept over us, I felt my mouth start moving.

“Hey don’t worry about man. I get it, it’s your job.” Everyone’s gaze leapt to me. Whelp topic change time. “So… anyone ever heard the Tragedy of Darth Plagueis the Wise?”

“Do you mean Clover the Clever?” Somebody asked confused.

“No, for you see Darth Plagueis was not clever.” Though I made a note in my head to look up this ‘Clover the clever’. “Plagueis was a powerful sorcerer who started studying how to control life…” I started getting into my best storytelling mood. Hey how often do you get to use your Darth Sidious impersonation? I’m milking this for all I got.

“... and so, it was while he slept that his apprentice snuck into his chamber and killed him where he lay. Ironic is it not that the man who could keep those he loved alive could not save himself.” I finished letting out a dry chuckle. I think I did a good enough job. Changing out a few things like the force for magic. Didn’t need them questioning everything I say. Plus, magic was real here so when in Rome.

“So, what happened to the apprentice?” One of the guards who joined the circle part of the way through the story asked. It seemed that the fact that Plagueis could raise the dead was interesting them. Well then again, he would probably be considered a necromancer. If there was anything that fiction taught me it’s that necromancy was a very dark magic, especially if this world followed Dresden logic.

“Oh, that’s a story for another day.” I said letting out a sigh. Seeing the looks on the faces around me I continued, “But to make a long story short. He got himself two appreciates. The second to replace the first after an unfortunate ‘accident’.” I said slowly pushing myself up content with a job well done.

“Hang on you never said the apprentice name.” Shining said in a thinking position. “And how did you hear of this story anyways?”

Crap, well cover time, “Quite simple, I heard it from a fellow traveling storyteller, never got his name. It was like Sidious or something. And well we both had places to be so he never gave it to me. I mean he did tell me what became of the apprentice but… little details sometimes slip you know?” Please buy it. “Add to it the fact that when I tried to find him again to get those details nobody knew where he was. It was almost like he vanished.”

“So, you’re a traveler? Know any songs.” Thank you, Lemon. Though when I was telling the story she seemed disturbed by it. Must be because of her recent encounter with the zombie horde back in the dungeon.

“I know quite a few, but I shall spare your ears from my off tune singing attempt.” Giving her my best smile, I once again attempted to he’d down stairs only to be meet with a ballistic missile. 

*****

Sunset watched from above as Oz started to leave the circle. The tale he told of the necromancer Plagueis had caught her attention. She would have to check the books in Canterlot but the she was sure the story was fake. Someone of that stature would have been written somewhere for her to read about. 

THAWK

Being pulled out of her thoughts she saw the sight of Oz being launched back by Lightning Dust having rammed into him. 

“Hey watch where you're going!” Came the expected response from Lightning.

“Did anybody get the number of what hit me?” At this Lightning Dust’s face turned red and a couple guards jaw fell. Even Sunset felt stunned by his boldness.

“Did you just ask for my numbers?!” Her night guard yelled as the traveler got up.

“Something wrong? Sorry it might be the concussion but you seem embarrassed.” Was this guy really that bold or did he not realize what he asked her for.

“Damn right something's wrong. For this I demand a fight to avenge what you just did!” She was really mad.

“Well I would love to accept. But I don’t have my weapon. So, I’ll- “

“Wait they haven’t been returned to you?” Shining asked seeming really interested all of a sudden. Then again if the rumors were to be believed then he was dating the love of his life. He must think that Oz or Lightning needed taught a lesson. That or this was teach both of them. “I’ll go get them for you.” With that the Captain was off to get Oz’s weapons.

“Thanks buddy you’re really helpful.” He seemed happy to have his sword and shield back. Even if he wasn’t showing it on his face.

“Looks like we’re getting that fight.” Lightning stated excited at the prospect of a fight, as usual. “Can’t wait to put you down.”

Oz seemed to stare off at the sunset for a few seconds before turning his heterochromia gaze toward her. “Yeah this will be an interesting fight.” The air became saturated with the growing tension as a few soldiers ran off to tell the others about the coming battle. From her perch above Sunset felt her hairs raise up, even she couldn’t help but want to see what would come from this fight.
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

What the hell was I thinking! I have no idea what I’m capable of and yet here I am about to fight a probably highly trained soldier. I will take my Darwin Award after my ass kicking, thank you very much. ‘Relax’ my mind told me. ‘Nobody is unbeatable, we just need to stay calm and give this our best.’ Good advice brain. I take back some of the bad stuff I said about you. Some of it.

“Here you go,” Captain Armor said passing me back the Aegis shield and Demon Slayer. Another thing to complain about. I have the Demon Slayer and not the True Demon Slayer. How am I even supposed to get that now? In the game you acquired it when you fought the final story boss. Merging the Sol Key with the sword to awaken its power. How in Yog-Sothoth’s name am I supposed to do that!

“Are both fighters ready?” The good Captain’s voice boomed out drawing me from my thoughts. “This fight will be tell either fighter taps out or can no longer fight.” My view was drawn to my opponent who was hopping back and forth on her feet and throwing a few jabs. It seemed she was a brawler. Probably had some mean gauntlet or knuckle dusters prepared to hit me with.

“Oh yeah, when I’m done, he’ll be eating his teeth and his words!” She be spitting quite a bit of venom. Wait what was her name again?

‘Focus!’ Right monologue later, fight now. “Ready as I’ll ever be.”

“Oh, trust me, you are not ready for me!” My opponent replied giving a savage smirk.

“Is your name Freddy?”

“What? No, I told you it’s- “It seemed my question through her off.

“Then trust me I’m ready.” I replied with my best shit eating smile.

“Then let this match begin!” With that our judge shot a showy blast of magic to start the match.

It seems the black guard was still trying to process my question, which means first move is mine. I took advantage of this by charging forward and swinging my sword as fast I could. Seeing my sword swinging toward her seemed to snap her out of her stunned state. Not having much of an option, she jumped toward the left as one of her fists started glowing a bright green. ‘Shit’ I had almost forgot that magic was an option for her and hastily raised my shield I was about to pay for it.

The punch hit the dead center of my shield and with a soft boom I felt my feet start to get lifted of the ground. Just like most of media it seemed that wind magic was green. Quickly I plunged Demon Slayer into the ship keeping myself from being blasted too far away. Having kept my eyes on the Brawling Magician I was able to once again able to raise my shield and block another green punch. Knowing what to expect this time I angled it so when she hit it again it the wind blew around me and didn’t push me back.

But I knew that I couldn’t block her the entire time. I needed distance and a chance to Concentrate. If I wanted a chance at winning, I needed access to my stronger skill. I don’t know if I have Mars or Jupiter Bane but I have to stick to what I know I have for sure. Feeling another hit on my shield I lunged forward hitting her with my full weight. As she stumbled backwards, I pulled Demon Slayer out of the deck of the ship and stepped forward pressing my attack. As a Brawler she had a smaller reach than me but more mobility because of the lack of weapons. Right now, the ball was up in air sense at any time she could smash it into my court by pulling out another type of magic fist.

As another swipe neared her my opponent jumped up in the air instead of dogging. However instead of following the rules of gravity tiny baby blue wings appeared by her shoes as she rose higher. “That was a fun dance but I think I should end this. I’m starting to get a little bored.” Oh, how could I ignore such an obvious taunt.

“I know what you mean. My opponent, who I just can’t seem the name of, flew away at the best part.” Shrugging my shoulders in as casual manner I could I see her shake a bit in anger.

“My name is Lightning Dust! You better remember after I send you to dream land!” Wow seems I hit a nerve. Better try and get some more.

“Please any dream involving you would be more forgettable than furbies.” Seeing her confused look, I let out a chuckle. “See even you forgot those existed.”

“I’m ending this now.” 

“But I was just getting warmed up.” I mock whined to her using my best theatrical expression. “Besides what are you going to hit me with up there. Your boot?”

“Hah, watch this,” Lightning diving as a red and green glow slowly traveled down her arms.

“What, you getting in the holiday spirit?” I once again mocked. While we had been having this conversion, I had been loading the Concentration skill. Feeling it lock into place in my mind I tried to think of some way to get to her and unleash Terra bane.

“Nope this is my grand move!” Pounding her fists together Lightning slowly drifted back away as the magic started spreading around her. “I hope you have a spare shield cause there ain’t no stopping this!” Whelp only one thing to do.

Raising my sword, I tapped the Aegis shield slowly. “Please there is no way you could ever break this thing. But how about you try and attack it.” I gave a show of relaxing my muscles and adopted a lazy smile. “Or is your plan to use that dull wit of yours and bore me into submission?”

In response Lightning let out an angry yell while shooting, at what I assumed to be, her top speed. Now in anime of movies this would be the part where I stand my ground and try and block the attack. And while I did raise my shield my plan was a bit different. For you see I was more playing chicken with her. In most games the move Lightning just used locks players into a set action like Fox’s fire attack. Which means it has, what I’m hoping, a very exploitable weakness. As she got closer, I jumped and spun to my right getting out of the way.

Seeing me do this Lightning proved me right in sense as, still wrapped in the red and green aura, she landed right where I was standing. I gave her the best smirk I could as I swung Demon Slayer. “Terra Bane,” you know its kind of weird seeing realty break as one slash become three.

The flames around Lightning met the now three slashes head on as if acting as a shield. I only got a second to see her eyes change to that of worry when I knew something was going wrong. Lucky for me that I still had my shield up. Unlucky was I that it appeared it wouldn’t do me much good as the two attacks exploded around each other.

As I was hurdled back, I once again employed the tactic of sinking Demon Slayer into the ship’s deck in the hope of not flying off the boat. I felt the sword start slowing me back as my hand gripped the hilt in a death grip. As I slowed down, I was left lying flat against deck with Demon Slayer sunk up to the hilt. Slowly I tried to get up to my feet but every part of my body was screaming at me. It seemed that while my shield had absorbed the flames that I saw shoot from the blast the wind hit me dead on. As I slowly pushed myself up, I felt my arms start shaking and a sharp pain from my left arm. 

“Well seems that blast did a real number on you.” Lightning’s voice rang out. Raising my head, I caught sight of her through the smoke of the fires slowly dying. “So where is that ego you had?” I did a quick check and was happy to note that as far as I could tell all my clothes were intact. The reason for my concern was that whatever lightweight materiel Lightning used had broken in a couple paces. While not becoming scandalous in anyway her helmet was in utter pieces revealing her blonde and gold hair with somewhat orangish eyes. The shoulder part of the armor was gone just leaving cracked gauntlet behind. Of course, she still had her weapon. The main body of the armor had cracks running along it with a few pieces falling to the ground revealing skin or the clothing below. The leggings were much better shape than rest with only small signs of damage.

“Please it seemed my attack did a much better number on your armor.” Though was right that a good breeze could do me in. I only got a second to react and roll out of the way as a blast of yellow flew right at me. Finish my dodge I turned to see Lightning with a fist extended and wearing a very pleased look smeared across her face.

“I’m sorry you were saying something.” Damnit there goes my range advantage. Why did she have to lightning shots? I was in no shape to even get back into range and fight her head on. Come on I have to think of something.

‘Did you forget we have Gazer Heal.’ That’s right! In addition to Terra Bane you obtained the Heal spell at level seven. Slowly the pieces of a plan came together. First step in my plan was figuring out how to activate Heal. Well if anime taught me anything then magic was all about emotions. So, following that logic I focused on happy lovey thoughts. I noticed energy being ciphered away from something as my body started feeling better.

I was both relieved yet disappointed that there was no green energy to indicate its use. Noticing another blast heading my way I pushed myself out its way and slowly rose to my feet.

“Oh, my goddess. Are you really that hurt?” Lightning let loose a little chuckle. “Better give now before I take this seriously.”

“Says the person losing. Forfeit now and we can forget this happened.” I stated calling her bluff. If she did have some trump card, I think she would have used it already. Or she was going to try the Christmas charge again. 

“Don’t say I didn’t warn you.” Well looks like she did have another card waiting to be played. Her body started glowing red with bits of yellow mixed in. Going off color logic this was going to be a fast fire dash.

So, in conclusion she was going to hit me with a flare blitz. And seeing how last time I tried using the opening with a Bane skill had blown up on me. Quite literally might I add. That option was out. With nothing left to do and her looking like she was ready to go I braced myself for impact while casting another Cure over myself and Concentrate on what to do next.

It was a good thing I did that. Cause no sooner than the Cure started working I was face to face with Lightning. The second she hit the Aegis shield I felt the flames start washing around us. If that wasn’t bad enough, I also got a nice jot of electrical shock. I don’t know which one it was but my Concentrate was knocked loose.

While I was standing strong, I bore witness to Lightning flying back as if she had jumped of my shield or knocked back from the explosion herself. Either way she didn’t seem to notice me still in the now dome of flames. So as my blue eye started to light up as pressure built up, she was in the perfect position.

“Bolt,” I stated to myself as a lance of pure energy left me. It flew fast and true right up to my shocked opponent. Cure wasn’t the only spell at my dispoal, and unlike normal magic Gazer Bolt’s power wasn’t based on Intelligence or Magic but instead Strength. The Bolt hit true as the armor Lightning wore lit up. More cracks started forming and breaking while the aura spear hit and started to try and drill its way through. It seemed I got my answer for why she seemed so unharmed, her armor appeared to generate a field around her to either reduce or negate any damage she would take.

My attack pressed for another half second before doing what it did in the game. Exploding, sending Lightning crashing against the deck. Taking advantage of this I rushed forward while trying again to lock my Concentration skill. Arriving right before her I stepped down on her arm she was about to use to raise up. In the same moment I brought Demon Slayer to Lightning’s neck. “Yield, now.” I once again stated with more certainty than I had as another painful jolt of electricity passed through me.

Meeting the Brawler’s gaze, I saw endless determination glare back at me. From the corner of my vision I saw the arm that I didn’t pin down start to raise what little remained of her broken gauntlet up. I was really hoping I could control this next move because I don’t know how much of that field remained. Drawing my sword back I prepared to end this fight, “Terra Ba-”

“STOP!” A shimmering pink barrier of flowing energy appeared between us and before I could react moved me and Lightning apart. I must say it is a very weird feeling, levitating that is. I felt like could easily break whatever held me, but at the same time my entire body was aching so…

Shining stepped between us while the crystal on his head glowed a soft light. But what really caught my sight was the fact that he now held a large spear with a starburst head along with his other hand glowing the color as the bubble that held me. “I think it’s obvious who won this fight.” Turning his gaze to me his gaze softened but never lost truly lost the look of a leader. “Good job Oz, those were some interesting skills. Lightning hopefully this will teach you who to pick fights with in the future. Though you have come a long way from that hothead who challenged me not that long ago.”

Turning I saw Lightning with a very embarrassed look on her face raising to her feet. “But he started it.” I barely heard her mumble as she started to sulk away. On a side note she should properly grab a jacket or some other clothing. Cause with her armor being reduced to just a small bit of helmet, shoulder guards, gloves, and boots all that left her with was a tee shirt and sport shorts.

“Listen why don’t both of head downstairs to get checked out by the medics. Then we can discuss who started what, and MORE importantly who pays and helps repair the ship from this little spare.” Sweeping his spear back showed us the damage our fight did. I felt a little bit of embarrassment as I started noticing the holes, I had put into the deck trying when I was trying to prevent my ejection off the boat. There were already a few guards summoning water to try and put out the flames caused by Lightning.

“Yeah I got a couple sores I would like looked at.” Whelp time to leave before I somehow get stuck in another situation.

*****

Lemon watched as Oz awkwardly was led down stairs toward the medical room with Lightning following not far behind. The fight had been interesting in the beginning with the action going back and forth between the two fighters. But things became more interesting after Lightning launched her Burning Wind Trail, copyright pending according to her teammate. She had seen it done hundreds of time. The night Pegasus guard would charge up before using her flight to charge her opponent. Upon impact she would then use the shield generated by her armor to jump away before the explosion. A bit of a risky move but Lightning enjoyed it and the variants she made greatly. “The more powerful the more exciting.” The blonde always said.

But for some reason when her magic aura had been hit by the ‘Terra Bane’ it went sideways. Nobody yet knew what happened just that the move Lightning had prided herself on exploded putting a massive dent in the ship. It was obviously hit both of them hard based off how much damage it did to the night guard armor. 

Lemon had been there when Sunset had taken the armor from Lightning to add ‘some much needed upgrades. While untested they had all born witness to how much the Pyromancer had upgraded the protective enchantments already present. It was part of the reason Lightning felt so confident in her fighting style though she never voiced it. Yet somehow Oz was able to get back up from it only a little worse for wear.

She had a theory that it related to what she felt from him after his second dodge. She had felt it again from him right before he was hit by Lightnings Shocking Fire Blitz, patent also pending though making progress.

“Hey did you catch the name of that last spell he used.” Indigo asked drawing her out of her thoughts.

“Huh, you mean that spear he conjured?” A Sun guard goon asked.

“Yeah kind of seemed like an improved magic missile.” Indigo mumbled to herself. “So, he uses magic and a sword and shield? That would make our traveler a spellsword wouldn't it?” Here she goes again. Lemon knew Indigo liked competition, it was what made her join Sunset’s team in the first place.

“Makes sense. I mean he has the endurance of a paladin and magic of a wizard.” Another goon chimed in. Why did everyone focus on his class so much. Besides they had only seen him fight once and during that entire time he only used two techniques.

“Hey Indigo, since the fights over I’m heading to bed.” Lemon informed her teammate.

“Oh yeah sure. See in the morning.” Indigo waved her as she turned back to continue her discussion with the two goons.

As Lemon made her way to the private room provided to her and her team her mind went over what she had learned and saw today. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t interested in Oz. The man was a mystery demanding to solved somehow. Seeing invisible doors, a powerful sword technique, and now magic. But what had drew her in was the story he had told during the Guard Shift.

A previously unknown Necromancer and apprentice. When she had invited him over as show of kindness, she did not expect to learn such an interesting story. She would consult her leader about all this as soon as she could but for now, she really did need to sleep. Yes, maybe her leader would know what was going on and what Oz used after Lightning’s attack. She would talk about in the morning, with who would listen but for now she was tired and full.
> Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I laid on a small comfortable medical bed while a horned White Guard waved a staff over me. When I had been admitted they had made me take off most of my clothes which showed all of us the extent of my injuries. Despite my clothes having been unharmed my skin did not get off scot free. Thankfully it was nothing as third degree burns and the when they had started working their magic most of the bruises had started disappearing. But it was still shocking to see my own body be turned into a tie dye of purple, red, and blue.

“Well that should take care of most of your injuries. But I would still recommend that you try and limit yourself.” One of the medics said, at least I assume that’s what the blinding white armor means. Like I said the armor was primarily white with a few red crosses on the shoulders and highlighted by light blue. If I had to hazard a guess the light blue was to indicate they were the night shift medics.

“Hey Fix Minder you done with your patient yet? I got done with mine a while ago.” Another medic walked in pulling back the curtain.

“Almost,” the now name Fix Minder said before turning back to me. “As I was saying you shall stay here the rest of today until we can give you another checkup.” My clothes were brought over to me by surrounded by a light blue glow. Grabbing them I was quick to put them on. Years of changing in gym classes paying off. “Is there anything I can get for you while you're stuck here?”

“Yeah could I get a few books? You know to pass the time?” Please I need to know what is going on in this world.

“I’ll see what I can do.” And just like that Fix and the other unnamed guard left. Seeing as they were gone, I settled myself down on the cot. 

Hearing a sigh, I turned and saw my neighbor, Lightning dust curled up on her bed facing away from me. Whelp this was awkward. Hopefully I could get away with just ignoring her, like she obviously was with me. So, we sat in silence for a while content in our own thoughts.

“So, what was green, red charge move called?” Hermes damn it mouth. “I was thinking Hearts Warmth.” My med bay neighbor mumbled something barely audible. “Sorry you’re going to have to speak up. Oh, another name, Heat Wind Charge.”

“It’s called Burning Wind Trail!” She shouted turning to glare at me. Whereas I had a nice padding of bandages below my clothes she didn’t seem to have even one. No wait I saw one near her throat near where I had pointed Demon Slayer. 

“And the red and yellow, wait let me guess. Shock Volt, no even better Lighting Flare?”

“Shocking Flame Blitz.” Wow she was getting annoyed. Well time to see if I could get more of a reaction maybe even start of a conversation. I know really pushing my luck and skills.

“Do you have a blue and red one cause I just thought of a kickass name.” Her gaze focused on me and upon receiving no answer I proceeded. “Steam Engine.” She gives a thoughtful hum as if considering it over. “Or how about blue and yellow for Electric Stream?” Again, all I got was a hum for a response 

“What would you call a blue and green attack?” Seems she’s finally getting into the spirit of the conversation.

I hummed for a few seconds before responding, “Monsoon Wrath.”

Lightning fell into silence for a bit. “What was that attack you used on me?”

“Which one?”

“Both, but start with the sword slash.” Good seemed we got a dialog going. That is a step in the right direction. I think, been awhile since I talked to anyone this long besides my family.

“Terra Bane,” I licked my lips trying to think how to say the next part without sounding a little bit crazy. “It’s a skill that that lets me turn one slash into three powerful slashes.” Seeing her look I continued on. “The Bolt spell allows me to launch an aura spear to pierces the enemy’s defenses to land a nice hit.” My gaze had turned to the ceiling now as my mind started wondering. “Though I guess it never encountered something like your barrier before. Hell, Terra Bane is just a bunch of sword slashes how the hell did it hitting your magic result in such a strong explosion?”

“Don’t know, I’m sure Sunset is tearing her hair out trying to figure it out.” I returned my gaze to Lightning who let out a shallow chuckle. “She probably already wrote up several pages about both of those skills.”

“Seems we got off on the wrong foot. Names Oz, nice to meet you.” I said extending my hand.

“Lightning Dust,” She took my hand and gave it a firm shook before pulling on it and nearly making me fall of my bed.

“What was that for?” I yelped pulling my hand back. Unfortunately, Miss Dust hadn’t let go so it just resulted in the start of a tug of war between us.

“I will not be beaten by you again.” This woman had problems. Now the resizable thing to do would be to let her ‘win’. Well screw that. I started pulling with whatever strength I could trying to win whatever game this was. This of course resulted in Lightning giving a smirk as she pulled on her advantage.

“Well what’s going on here?” A voice asked behind me. Turning my head, I felt another pull and my head meet the floor.

“Thanks for the assist Zap.” Lightning chirped above me. Screw you! 

A sigh sounded above me as two hands pulled me back up to bed. “Mister Oz what did I say about limiting yourself.”

“She started it.” I weakly waved an arm at the triumphant looking Lightning who was now sitting on her bed.

“I swear everyone on this ship are a bunch of children.” The doctor said waving the staff over my head. “Thank god your thick headed.” Pulling the staff back I rolled my head to alleviate whatever ache might still exist. On the previous empty table were a pile of books. “Sorry but the only books on the ship were those given to Shining from his sister. So, you’ll have to give them back.”

“If what Sunset says about Twilight is true then those will put you sleep.” I’m guessing Zap said walking into my vision. “So good choice.” I could tell she was smiling behind her helmet. 

“Miss Zap I must inform you that despite being a Night Guard the visiting hours are still the same.” The medic stated firmly while now waving his staff over the still smiling Lightning. Though she seemed to smile bigger when I was looking. 

“Man, Sunset will not be happy about that.” Zap jokingly said while taking a seat on my bed. Whelp time to get some reading done. Plus, it should annoy anyone trying to talk to me.

A Brief History of Equestria was proudly written on the hard cover. ‘Brief my ass this could be used as an offense weapon in underground librarian pit fights!’ Well no time like the present to start my reading. Huh, it’s a comic book, weird.

*****

Shining Armor sat on his bed rolling a communication stone back and forth in his hand. One of the medics had stopped by not that long ago. He was looking for books, said that Oz wanted something to read while he was stuck in the med bay. Having Twily for a sister he had a large number of books that he hadn’t gotten around to reading yet. Don’t get him wrong he loved his little sister but not everyone had her reading speed.

Placing the stone, the mirror it fell into a little circle. “Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, Canterlot Castle.” Shining spoke clearly as the mirror fogged over for thirty seconds before clearing to show him the one who his heart belongs to.

“Shiny I didn’t expect to hear from you so soon.” Her voice soothed part of him.

“Yeah, something's happened. Nothing bad,” Shiny fell back onto his bed, “just confusing very confusing.”

“Well tell me. I might not be in the army but I am your girlfriend.” Shiny could swear he felt her hands on his. Any tension he once held quickly fled from his body.

“Well it started when my team caught up with Sunset’s team. They were being overrun by undead. We were quick to rush in and help but that’s when we came across two unexpected elements.” Shining said as his memory returned to what happened yesterday. “Sunset was fighting a mutated undead the likes of which at the point hadn’t been seen.” That was a report to file. The body of it had been examined as best it could before they had to leave. It was estimated to be four times strong than most Fighters and as sturdy as a Paladin. 

“Oh no is she okay?” Worry traced across Candace's face.

“She had managed to do some heavy damage to it with her Holy Fire but it’s skin was fire resistant. Add to it the undead's endurance made it more than she could deal with by herself. Me and the main squad were doing our best fighting against the hoard and probably wouldn’t had made in time. Thankfully she was saved by a still unknown fighter.” 

“Unknown? Do you mean he left after helping Sunset?” God her face was so cute when it was scrunched up in confusion. Shining so rarely go to see it that he always made sure to savor any moment he could.

“No, he’s with us right now. He managed to cut open part of the super undead’s back which Sunset used to pour her Holy Flames into. Seeing a chance, the, at the time, unnamed warrior unleashed a powerful skill to kill the weakened undead.” Shining took a deep breath before continuing. “It was at that point we managed to break through the rest of the hoard. So, I approached the warrior and asked him to come with me. He was surprisingly cooperative.”

Cadence had leaned into like she was watching an intriguing play. “Let me guess you charged him with trespassing in a dangerous and closed dungeon.”

“Yes.” Why did everyone tease him about it. The law was the law, and it was his duty to uphold and enforce it. “Though after integrating him I learned his name was Oz and that he had been teleported into there by a mugger.”

Cadence let out a small groan. “I thought we had cracked down on that thirty years ago.” Shining felt for his beloved. Learning that Oz was the victim of a crime that had unintentionally led to the death of hundreds of different people over the years was slightly unnerving.

“Yeah that's what I thought to when we caught somebody doing it two years ago.” That story was one he never wished to touch or remember again. “So, since we were already going back to Canterlot to deliver Sunset and her team to Celestia for the Grand Galloping Gala we brought Oz along.” The fact that he was bringing him for a trail left unsaid.  “This where thing get… well confusing.” Cadence leaned in waiting to hear the next part.

“It was around the Guard Shift when Oz finally came top side and was invited by Lemon Zest into a circle. I joined not long after. He apparently held no ill will for me doing my job but before I could try talking to him, he shifted to asking if we had heard some story.” At this part he looked at his, hopefully soon, to be fiancée. “He told us the tale of a necromancer named Darth Plagueis who would keep those he loved alive only for him to be killed in his sleep by his trusted apprentice.”

“That’s… dark. Fitting for a necromancer I guess.” Cadence said slowly reclining in her favorite chair. “I’ll have to ask my aunties but I don’t recognize the name. So, what happened next?”

“I asked him about the apprentice, see if he knew something else about the tale. He just said he got the story from some guy named Sidious. Then before I could ask him anything else, he tried to head to bed. Only for Lightning Dust to hit him knocking him back.”

“Who?” Again, with that adorable confused look.

“You know that member of Sunset’s team that challenges me to a fight every chance she gets.”

“Oh, you know I almost forgot about her. So, after knocking down Oz did, she challenge you again.”

“No, she challenged Oz after he,” Shining’s face started to become a little flushed at this next part. “Well, he asked if anybody got… the numbers of Lightning Dust.”

Cadence started at him for a few seconds before nearly falling out of her chair laughing. “He actually asked if anyone had Lightning’s measurements? Why?”

Shining’s mind tried to think of a reason for Cadence’s question. “You know, I have no idea.” Shaking his head to clear any errant thoughts he counted on. “So, to help teach him a lesson and see if I could go one trip without Lightning trying to pick a fight with me, I let her go at Oz.”

“Let me guess Oz won?” He loved how smart she was.

“Yeah but she had him in a few spots. At the beginning it really seemed that she had him in a corner only for him to push back. But what really caught my interest was what happened when he tried to use an energy attack against her.” Waiting a bit, he continued. “It seems Sunset modified her team's armor.”

Cadence let out a small groan of annoyance. The Guard’s armor was made special by a group of Enchantress with each one tested and approved by the Head Enchanter. Modification were allowed to be made to the armor as long as it was approved by at least on captain or higher along with a royal enchanter. “What did she do?”

When Sunset was given her team around two years ago only members of the royal guard were allowed to join. All was fine till the last update six months ago. Sunset had decided she was ready to lead a new team. A team she would pick.

Princess Celestia reluctantly agreed to her terms on the condition that updates were held every month instead of the previous three months. Many applicants were quick to rush in. Not only at the chance to explore dungeons but also the immediate promotion to royal guard. Though it was fun to see Sunset tear apart more than one stuck up noble who thought they should get in just because of their blood. The result was Sunset’s new team composed of people she saw fit to journey with her into ancient areas of Equestria. 

“Do you know how and when she modified them?” Cadence mumble trying to figure out how to let Celestia know what one of pupils did.

“Well last time me or one of my men indulged Lightning in a spar was more than four months ago and it was out of armor. So, who knows. The modifications she made lowers the durability of the armor in exchange for increased defense. The armor is now in storage until the self-repair activates.” Shining finished before letting out a small yawn.

“Seems these events are really starting to take it out of you.” He tried to protest only for the one who holds his heart to continue on. “Get some sleep my brave knight, the sooner you get here the sooner you can tell me that news you keep hinting at.” Cadence teased.

“Fine, just let the Princess know.” Shining didn’t protest knowing he would only lose it. So, he chose a tactical retreat.

“I will, good night Shining.”

“Night Cadence.” As he laid down the mirror fogged over again before returning to its reflective surface. Shining laid down on his rock-hard bed as his mind went over what to tell her Highness.
> Chapter 6 (re-uploaded)
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I stared at the sunset of my third day on this new world. I finally had some knowledge about this new world. To say this world's history was interesting would be to say that WOW was light on lore. The book had kept me up for a good while before Lightning threw a pillow at me to turn my lantirn off.

To start off with there were apparently three main kinds of humans on this world. They were called Unicorns, Pegasus, and Terran. I know, one of my skills is Terra Bane and there is a race called Terran. Well how they got those names is even weirder. According to history/believed humanity was visited near the beginnings of their existence by three powerful spirits. No prizes for guessing what those spirits were. Each one appeared before different kingdoms and bestowed gifts to the people of those lands.

The Unicorn gave the gift of greater control of magic to those of Mountain Kingdom. They were born with a focus crystal that grew with them and were connected to them in some special way. Nobody could figure out how they were connected to the individual only that no one could use somebody else's crystal. Thanks to gift they were able to use magic and pull off powerful feats that the other races couldn’t.

The Pegasus gave the those it found the gift of the ability to walk among the clouds. Those bestowed with this ability were quick to make their own kingdom in the very clouds they could now control like sculptures of the sky. A pegasus’s wings were generally appeared located near their heels and generally were almost impossible to injure permanently except by damaging a very specific part of the back where it was believed the magic cluster that powered the wings was located.

The Horse bestowed those of the plains with sturdiness and a greater connection to the ground. They were quick to call them selfless Terrans after the gifts bestowed to them. The greater connection to ground allowed them to easily find the best places to farm or hunt for food. The sturdiness allowed them travel great distances with ease.

Originally the three were standoffish against each other believing they were superior to the other thanks to the gifts given to them by the spirit they were visited by. The mounting tension eventually lead to an invasion by Wendigos. Unlike their Native American counterparts these Wendigos brought fierce freezing winds and feed of hatred, conflicts, and the souls of those caught by their winds. Surprisingly the were beaten back by three members of the races joining together and creating this world's version of Christmas called Heart Warmings.

I’m gererizing here because despite it having some sections that of a comic book it was a lie. Most of it was actually walls of words that ate up entire pages. It made my head very hurty to look at for more than any given length of time. The only other important thing I could tell that happened was the introduction of the forth race.

This race said why not both for all three races. The had the magic and foci crystal of the Unicorns. The flight and weather control from the Pegasus. And finally the sturdiness and connection to earth of the Terrans. In simple terms they were Demigods among mortals. I wasn’t far off sense the most prominent Alicorn, the forth race, Celestia raised the moon and sun. I mean according to the children stories there used to be another Alicorn who raised the moon but despite my best searching I could not come across a name besides Nightmare Moon. And while I wouldn’t dismiss the possibility, because generally in these types of situations all myths are true, I’m not putting much stock in it.

The final thing I had learned was the predominant religion of this world. That of Faustism. I know I hit my head against the book I was reading when I learned of this fact. Faustism was the worship of the Goddess Faust who was one of the major Gods that helped to create this world. I would inform you more of Powerpuff religion but I couldn’t get past the first two pages without hitting myself with the book.

Now this lead me to two conclusions. First the Faust was just coincidentally the same name. Kind of like showing up at a salon where your barber has the same name as you. Second was that Lauren Faust somehow made the greatest Faustian bargain in the world, became a Goddess, made this world I’m stuck in, and is now laughing about it somewhere with her husband who is no doubt doing the same with another world where the religion is no doubt Wander Over Yonder.

For my sanity I’m sticking with the first option. So with my head held high, after being cleared by the kind medics, I had returned the books back to Captain Shining Armor. Which leads me to my current situation.

“Good to see a traveler like yourself at least knows how to hammer in a nail.” Faint praise made its way over to me. Turns out Shining Armor was not joking about me and Lightning having to fix the help fix the damage of our spar. So here I was applying magic nails to the flying boat. Don’t ask me how hitting large cuts in ships fixes it but somehow it is.

“Where’s my compliments.” Lightning shouted as she lazily whipped a mop back and forth to clean up the burn marks.

“When you actually start working. Civie boy here is almost done and he had twice as much to do.” Our project manager yelled at her to which she just shrugged.

“I think you’re just picking favorites.” You know I don’t think I’ve seen her put the mop in the water bucket. She’s just been standing there shooting the breeze.

I felt a witty retort start to raise up in me before my brain realized how dumb it was and killed it. The guard watching us just let out a soft growl. “Listen Dust if you think I’m going to put up with your crap just because your one of Sunset’s little pets your dead wrong. Exploration or not you still wear the Night Guard uniform. Don’t disgrace it.” Damn it’s getting tense here better hurry and finish. Oh look, it’s amazing what you can get done when you want to get out two peoples ways.

“I’m done sir, May I be excused, sir.” Can never have to few sirs when talking to military personnel. I think, I really need to brush up on my military talk. Maybe watch Full Metal Jacket when I get a chance.

The soldier stopped his glare at Lightning before turning his statue gaze to me. He seemed to examine it for a awhile before nodding his head. “It’s acceptable. Go down they’re starting dinner soon.” Acceptable is still good enough. I turned to Lightning seeing still slowly moving her mop. “Think about helping her and I’ll have you doing pushups till your biceps explode.” With that threat I left her slowly mopping the spot.

Heading down I slowly made my way to the Mess Hall. Now this brought up a thought I thought I never thought I’d have. How did I know the way to the Mess Hall like it was the back of my hand. Don’t get me wrong I’m not directionally challenged but I had only been there once and that was yesterday. All the other times I had eaten in this world was when the meals were brought to me.

‘It's the Demons,’ my mind hazard a guess. It made sense in a way, once again, in the game you were provided a minimap. So which demon was it that was doing this. My mind only came up with two possibles, one logical and the other concerning. At the moment I was only linked to one demon, Comet. She had let me see the hidden doors so maybe her powers were what’s letting me have the map ability to. But the main character always had this ability so the only other option was the demon you always had, Terra. If this was true then it would mean I now knew he was if I didn’t have his key yet I had the ability he might supply. He was inside of me and not in the gay way.

‘Calm down, it’s only a theory right now. We need to focus on more pressing matters.’ My mind again asserted itself. It was right after all. Even if Terra was inside my soul I was still in control and there was no way I was going to lose to some Doll.

“Whoa you actually finished your job.” Zap asked as my legs still walked me into the Mess Hall.

“Yeah why wouldn’t I have?” The question left my mouth as once again my legs walked with a mind of their own. They moved me to the serving area where hot steaming food was laid out. Huh, seems either media once again lied to me or this was another difference between this world's military and home worlds.

“Oh, just thought you might wait it out until the self repair or self cleaning activated.” As my body was still moving grabbing whatever it thought looked good my mouth once again betrayed me.

“So that’s what Lightning is waiting for.” The traitor mumbled despite my protest.
“Yeah the trick is to be discreet enough so the commander doesn't catch on.” Another voice cut in from the entrance. Turning slightly I saw Shining Armor stride in and grab a plate. “Though she’s cutting it rather close if you ask me.”

“Dust’s an adrenaline junkie, if it’s not down to wire or have some risk then it’s not worth it to her.” Zap replied pulling me to her table when I tried walking by. “Probably the only reason she was so reckless fighting you. Thought you weren’t as good as you were or she might not have pulled the big guns so soon.” First the unintinal insult burned me oh it did. Second why was she making me sit with her.

“Indigo you can’t force people to sit and play with you.” Shining said as he to sat at the table across from the Night Guard. As I moved the spoon I had toward the soup mix I grabbed I noticed that Indigo Zap didn’t have a tray ladened with food but a deck of cards and dice around her.

“Oh no the Captain of the guard knows about my illegal gambling ring whatever shall I do?” Man women could give my theater teacher a run for mouny with that overacting. BTW this soup is amazing. So rich in flavor

“Well I have a list of guards complaining about complaining about you so what have you guys been betting?” Man was good at sounding both resigned and yet still stern. And oh my god this broth is amazing it was like the flavors were exploding in my mouth only to reveal more of their goodness.

“Oh nothing much just some chores, mouny, favors, you know the usual.” Women sounded more confident and relaxed then she had any right to. My hand moved to the drink I had grabbed while I watched the conflict.

“Unfortunately I do, in case you forgot this isn’t the first time we had this conversation.” Well this explains why they’re so relaxed about this conversion. Huh, wonder how many times they had done this song and dance.

“Oh, how could I forget. So usually agreement then? You win I forget about your guards debts I win they keep doing all my chores for the next four months.” Zap said passing cards between her and Shining.

“I don’t even know why we keep doing this. My men should really learn to stand for themselves.” Shining mumbled looking at each card as it was tossed to him and laying them out at different points on the table. Hmm, this okay in the drink department I would rank it somewhere between Mountain Dew and Sprite.

“Hey not my fault they never learned how to step up their game. Besides your one of the few people left that provides me a challenge anymore.” After Zap had tossed the cards they both pulled out pocket notebooks and grabbed dice from the pile. I was both confused yet entranced as I took another sip from my cup.

“Let’s Duel!” They both yelled at each other while flipping open their books while flipping over their center cards causing the table to change into a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes.. Holy shit this is getting trippy, hopefully I shall come to understand this game soon.

Ten minutes later I understood nothing yet I was highly entertained. “My Klaxion King hits your outpost and thus lets me conquare that section of your land!” The good captain said thrusting his arm forward as a red demon dwarf decked out in the most ridiculous wardrobe ever followed his command. Turns out this game was some combination of Yugioh, Fire Emblem, and Risk.

“Hah did you never question why I left it open to attack?” Indigo darkly chuckled as the area the King was standing on slowly started turning a deep purple and sink into itself.

“What?” Shining asked in shock as one of his key troops fell into a pit as the ground renit itself above him.

“Like it? It’s one of my new traps called Abyssmall Hole. It activates on the third turn of it being set so you hadn’t been so quick to act then it would have destroyed my own settlement.” Indigo actually did the Kiba pose and laugh at seeing Shining still staring at his now gone King.

See like I said no idea but so entertaining. Then again not knowing seems to be making it funner. “Wait didn’t he cast a Divine Return Abyss spell two turns back which would mean he could either bring back now Klaxion King or Klaxion Forgotten Knight?” I questioned trying to remember this fever dream of a game. They both slowly turned to me as if they had forgotten I was there. Then again they were pretty into this game.

Indigo only needed two seconds to process what I said before her face turned whiter than a fresh layer of snow. Shining on the other hand started smiling brighter. “Indeed I did and I still have one move left this turn. I’ll start with moving my Klaxion Tactician into place.” Shining no doubt was laying out a brilliant strategy but my mind was quick to tune him out and instead focus on the board. It seemed I didn’t have long to watch as Shining’s red dwarfs started overrunning Indigo’s small fortress ending the game, somehow.

“Look like that’s game.” Shining said standing up and returning his tray to the front.

“Not fair, you got help.” The blue haired girl glared at me before a smile slowly crept on her face. In response to that creepy look all I did was take another sip. “Hey Oz how about a go?”

“Would love to but I just don’t know how to play. I would be up to a game of poker though.” My mouth responded before I silenced it by 

“Sounds reasonable, so what you betting,” Indigo asked quickly putting away the cards she and Shining were using earlier. I found myself quickly checking my pockets before my hand slipped into the bag I had bought from the Merchant. Throughout all of my adventures so far it had stayed firmly attached to my belt a little behind my legs. My hand firmly grasped onto something in the bag which I pulled out. It was an old looking key. It was black enough that appeared to consume the light around it.

I knew this key. This was supposed to be Terra’s key but it did not house the demon it was at the moment an empty vessel. “You betting that?” Lightning questioned to which I just shook my head and put it on the table and again reached behind me to find something else to bet. Digging into the bag I pulled out a few small gems. They were a brilliant white with one depicting a sword stuck in a stone, another was a piercing spear, and two of the gems showed a notched bow. Indigo let out a whistle showing her and Shining staring at the the gems I had placed on the counter. “Please tell me your betting those.”

I found myself nodding, after all these things would just take up space if there were no circles to use them on. “So what are you betting?” I asked as she started tossing out cards.

“Well seeing what you just bet the only thing I could offer would be those numbers you never got.” Indigo teased with a Cheshire grin on her face. It seemed she was attempting to troll someone from the internet age. There was only one response you could give to this.

“Well then I’ll have to raise you.” I said pulling out another gem. This one had a red base that glowed with an inner light and on the top sat a gold circle that reflected the lights. Indigo started slack jawed at the the two gems as I laid them out on the table I even heard Shining let out a whistle but didn’t move my head to check. 

“If your raising then I’ll bet… one favor.” Indigo pulled out two sheets of paper then tossed them into the center next to my gems. She then proceeded to tap the deck which started dealing out cards to the both of us. While Indigo picked up each card that was dealt to her I let mine pile up. It seemed that this poker game would be the five card hold type often seen in Looney toons or in some movies. Once they had been dealt I started to move to pick mine up before Indigo stopped me. “I raise to two favors.” 

Another wad of paper was tossed into the pile now growing in the center. On reflex my hand pulled out another two bow gems. Meaning I matched her. She didn’t seem to realize that I still hadn’t looked at my hand, like at all, didn’t even know what suites I had in there. Once again I moved for my hand only for the ship to lurch forward causing me to slam my hands on the table. 

“What the hell are you guys doing up there!” Turning I saw Shining enter full Commander mode as he yelled into a microphone that was attached to the wall. It looked kind of like the ones you would see in schools now that I looked at it.

“Sorry captain we hit a bit of wind.” A voice responded. “It wasn’t on any of the weather schedule.” That seemed to make Shining even more mad. There was a bit of shuffling on the other end. “We’re going to stick with it for a while if that’s alright with you captain. It should allow us to arrive at our destination early.”

Obviously thinking long and hard about it he finally responded. “Very well but first sign of trouble we get out.” He ended the call before started to mutter to himself something about Wonderbolts and Weather teams.

“Ah come on Armor relax. This isn’t something new for them to pull.” Indigo said before grinning to me. Crap back in attention. I nearly ripped my hand of the table to make it look like I wasn’t eavesdropping. Seeing movement my jaw went limp as Indigo layed down a royal house party. Three Kings and two Queens. “How about helping me figure out what to do with my new rock collection.”

“Sure maybe I’ll take a couple from you.” Taking back his seat I glanced down at my hand to see what I had.

“Well you definitely won all I got is two pair.” Indigo had the most shit eating grin in the world as she examined the bow gem. “See a pair of aces and another pair of aces.” With that I showed them the twin pair I held. With all the cards on the table I moved forward and pulled the gem from her loose grip. “Mine.”

As the gems moved to my empty side of the table the cards were taken by Shining who started reshuffling. “Hey maybe you could win these back.” I know sore winner but with how she was acting I felt it was deserved. Her answer was to growl at me and angrily to start picking up her cards. Thanks to the superstition I didn’t move to pick up mine and instead look at the gems and paper on my side. Wait wasn’t something missing.

****

The key slid down a hole in the ship which was used to dispose of waste by a lazy chief. It would seal itself soon so no one thought about it to much. But as the key fell it felt the connection to its master start to wane. It was supposed to support him and it would serve its purpose so drawing on some of his demonic power it wrapped itself in it to return to his side.

But instead a tear in reality drew it in at the detection of energy not native to this land. As it disappeared from this world the energy it wrapped itself in changed for it would now serve a purpose closer to the others. As it was drawn deeper into the void and near other objects such as a silver pocket watch, a pair of gloves, a boot, a vial of mysterious goo, and a mask it released a call. I am He Who Gazes at Demons, Oz. If you are in need of a Friend or Ally you nearly need to call and I shall arrive with sword and shield to assist you in your time of need! 

Its Master will be so pleased that it had served its purpose he might even praise him and reward him with some nice polish.
> Interlude 1
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Twilight was pacing back and forth as her mind went over the letter the princess sent earlier. Princess Celestia wanted to meet up with her and her friends after the Gala. That was okay she wanted to talk too her mentor to but it was just a few things that had sent her on this spiral of worry.

“You don’t get it Spike, the Princess sent me a letter asking for me to bring back the books I borrowed from the royal archive! What if she doesn’t think I’m ready for them yet!” Twilight yelled at her purple familiar who was watching her dig a hole into the floor with her pacing back and forth.

“I doubt she would have given them to you if she didn’t think you were ready.” Came the dragons reply as Twilight slowed for a second taking some of his logic to heart. 

“Your right I told her about the necromancer we encountered in the forest so she knows why I wanted to learn about them.” It had come as a shock to them, and not Bishop Smith, when they learned that what they fought in the forest was not a True necromancer but a human who had taken the memories and name of the true Queen Chrysalis. Turns out that most of the practitioners were dark skinned long eared creatures known as elves. No one knows where they came from just that they appeared one day and started raising the dead and feeding off the warmth of mortals. Nobody knew for sure what they fed on just that the few bodies they found were cold to the touch and showed no emotions before dying. They had never been captured alive and any corpses they tried to study were quickly consumed by dark green fire magic destroying them completely.

When they had asked Granny Smith about them, she described how the battlefields were not covered in corpses but instead dust. The books Celestia had given her where backed full of information about everything they had ever known or learned about their dark race. She could go over from humanities first interaction with them to the war fifty years ago. Or how their artifacts could still bring, and did bring, the dead back to life. They even supposedly pulled corpses from other worlds to use! She had learned so much… Twilight’s eyes shot open as she can to a gut-wrenching conclusion that sent shivers down her spine.

“What if does think I’m ready and wants to test me on what I learned so far?” She was almost hyperventilating at this point. “Spike we need to grab all the books Celestia gave us now! I need to go over them again I need to be ready for any question she might ask. Wait what if she asks me about their artifacts and tomb locations? I need all books even related to the elves!” Twilight’s horn glowed along with her staff as books started being pulled off the shelves and hover around the room. “Oh, I knew I should have read Crypt Keeps book more thoroughly.”

“Now wha’ in tarnation is goin’ on here?” A drawl pulled her from her thoughts before a new one drew her in like a carrot to a bunny. 

“Applejack perfect timing.” The paladin took a small step back at seeing her friends disheveled main and pinprick eyes focus on her with laser like intensity. “I need any and all scripts your family has on necromancers. Preferably all of them!” Twilight walked toward her friend before tossing her hands on her armored shoulders.

“Now what is this about?” She wasn’t about to stop her book friend but something seemed off.

“I. Cannot. Fail. This Test!” Twilight almost yelled at Applejack trying to shake her heavily armored friend. She didn’t succeed. “If I fail Princess Celestia might think I’m not taking my studies seriously and bring me back to Canterlot and if she did that then how could I study the magic of friendship with you girls because I wouldn’t….” Before Twilight could continue, she felt her mouth blocked by the element of Honesty.

“I came to get you so we could start getting ready for the Gala. But it seems we need to deal with this first so why don’t you inform me about what's goin on as we walk.” The apple placed a firm hand on the Arcane Mages shoulder and started guiding here out of the tree library.

The Mage offered some resistance even as her horn still glowed and books trailed behind them. “Well you see I got a letter from Princess Celestia today who said she wanted to see all of us after the Gala. She said she would have rooms prepared for us because we had to spend the night.” Twilight started trying to pull one of the books toward her.

“That's mighty kind of her. But I don’ see how that got your branches all twisted.” AJ dogged out of the way of one of Twi’s books that almost hit her in the back of the head.

“She asked me to bring back some of the books that I had borrowed from the royal archives. You know the book about Necromancers.” Having finally got her hands on a book she was quick to crack it open and flip through it. Not hearing her honest friend talk Twilight decided to inform her about why that was an issue. “The Princess has never asked me to return a book! Not that it was ever an issue seeing how I always return them.” Twilight was ashamed to admit that she did have a late return mark on her library card. It was back when she was six years old and caught the flu so she was stuck in bed and her family were busy and couldn’t drop it off. That and the book was so good she just had to read through it three or four times.

“Maybe the Princess needs to check on something in them books.” Rarity’s boutique was growing closer. “Beside you said that she wanted to see all us to. So, I doubt it’s for some silly test.” 

“What test.” An invasion of pink popped up in front of them. “Is this about my dream last night where I was taking a test on the difference between types of parties. I mean it was a super easy test I mean who couldn’t tell the difference between welcome home parties and return parties. But then I realized that part of the test was in a different language so I had to get my- “

“Pinkie!” Applejack spited at the trickster.

“Yes AJ?” The megawatt smile she gave would have blinded most. The only response she got was the paladin indicating to their bookworm friend who was trying her best to escape her and Spike’s grip. “Oh.” Her hair seemed to lose some of its volume at seeing Twilights state.

“It must be a test! Pinkie’s Pinkie sense must of given her a clairvoyant dream!” Twilight reasoned as more books were brought closer. “I have to study!” She pleaded to her friends. Spike, who was using his mouth to hold onto her coat and claws to stay rooted into the ground, decide to use a dirty trick Night Light would occasionally use.

“Come on Twilight, you can study in while getting ready for the Gala. After all you wouldn’t want to arrive looking like a mess. Would you?” Spike felt a little dirty having to use this method but seeing his oldest friend slow down as his words started to reach her calmed him a bit.

Twilight tossed the thought around in her head as she laid limp in Applejack’s arms. It was true she had to look her best for the Gala. “For pete sake Twi if it’s really bothering you, I’ll quiz you.”

“Oh, can I join in to I love playing quiz games. I don’t mean to brag but you’re looking at the trivia night queen four years in the running.” Pinkies hair had regained its lost luster and now was back to its full glory.

“Yeah that would be helpful. Plus, we can inform the others while we’re doing it!” Twilight was really liking this more and more. “To the boutique!” She shouted like a captain ordering their army forward. Spike let out a sigh and jumped up to his favorite spot.

“See, even when things start looking bad, we can help you relax.” The calming voice of her friend stopped her from her march to think.

“Yeah I can’t tell you how many times AJ and Rare helped me with my parties when I was starting to get in over my head and looking worse than you.” Pinkie meandered past her.

“Your right.” Twilight let out a small chuckle as a few books feel into her hands as the others disappeared back to the library. 

“Should I send a letter to the Princess about this lesson?” Spike asked holding a piece of paper and a quill.

“No need Spike I think I’ll deliver this one to her in person for now we need to get ready.” She lazily grabbed a book out of the air and passed it to AJ. “Thanks for helping me.” She said with a warm smile.

“No problem sugar cube. Now let’s get goin’ I don’t want to any thin’ but my best for our…” at this Pinkie jumped between them making herself seem as big as possible. “BEST NIGHT EVER!” They all said together before once again walking toward their fashionable friend’s business slash house. As she was around her friends, she felt some of her troubles leave, as long as she was with her them what could go wrong. After all they took down Nightmare Moon together what could possibly happen.
> Chapter 6 part 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

You know maybe this poker game was a mistake. “I bet three bits.” I tossed three golden coins into the center of the table. Yes, gold coins, this world was so in fantasy that it used gold coins.

“I bet one gem.” Indigo had won most of my gems but I still had the papers.

“Then I raise with a red gem.” And there is the guy who was winning the most. The chips right now were a bit=1, gem=3, red gem=5. I’m not including the papers because both me and Terra, I am to use to thinking he’s inside of me, NOT in a gay way, to let them go.

“Match,” Indigo tossed a bit while I folded and thus did not lose to her. We went back and forth occasionally letting loose a quip or story as the game progressed. Occasionally another guard would join but it seemed Zap had drained them dry the day before so when they played it was only for short amounts of time before they folded. The only good to come out of them interrupting the flow of the game was more bits on the table. They never walked away with a gem, mainly because none of them were any good.

“Alright let’s all get to bed.” Shining said folding after another round. He won that round if you were wondering. I look at my nice pile of bits, which I recently started before the ship lurched and knocked them over, and decided to call it a night to. I had around twelve bits, the two sword gems and one of the increase gems. The other increase was with Shining along with the spears and Indigo had both the bows and four bits with Shining having eighteen other bits.

“Sounds good to me,” I scooped up my hall and dumped it into the bag hopping the magic would sort them out for me. Indigo mumbled seeing me dump the papers into my bag.

“Whatever I got a good game.” She stood up slowly still glaring at me. As I headed to the barracks, I felt exhaustion start forming up in me. Now normally when I go to bed, I’m one of those people who take forever to actually get to sleep. Hell, back home I took pills to help me settle down. So, it was something when I found myself drifting to sleep when I hit the bed.

‘Time for us to talk.’

*****

As my mind booted itself back online, I found myself in a strange location, again. Looking around I saw chunks of land floating off in the distance and auroras all around the air. Standing up I saw a small stone pathway leading forward. Looking ahead I saw that it led to a grand black throne where perched on top of it sat an intimidating figure.

They wore blackish gray armor that looked like it was torn from the very earth itself. Every part of the it ended with spikes and instead of a head I saw a red glowing area almost like Sarons eye but instead of the single dagger pupil was just a black haze. Despite never seeing this thing before I knew who they were. “Terra.”

The demon gave no indication of having heard me only continued sitting on its throne and acting like a king looking over his kingdom. “So, you are who I now share space with.” This made no sense to me. In the game Terra and Oz were one in the same. So, if I was now Oz then how could I be talking to Terra.

“Yeah I guess we’re roomies so how about you pitch in and we go see some movies. I know it might not be in theaters right now but I really think we should check out Infinity War.” Of course, this didn’t stop my mouth from vomiting up words.

“At least you’re livelier than the other Oz.” The demon muttered before somehow resting the swirl of red on one of its hands. “At least your better company than the other nuisance I had to lock down.” Wait other nuisance?

“Aww, thanks,” dammit mouth wrong thing to focus on. “So, let me guess you’re going to pull a soul battle and try to escape.” You get a pass, for now.

The demon general let out a chuckle, “If that was what I wanted then I would have destroyed you the second your soul appeared before me.” Oh, right he was a powerhouse. “Besides in the state we are in now that Captain you played games with earlier would destroy us before we could leave the ship.” Terra was scared of Shining?! I knew he was a Captain for a reason but damn.

“So, what you here to bargain?”

“If that is how you wish to but it then yes,” the haze of blackness started to condense as it focused on me. “To get to the point I feel we both know what we should be able to accomplish. The strength to challenge the gods themselves and not be struggling against a hot-headed low-ranking pawn.” The demon sneered at the end as if this was somehow my fault. Which it totally wasn’t… I think. 

“Let me guess you want that power to revive that Dark Sun of yours?” My mouth proceeded to mock.

“Yes,” huh honesty. “We demons were made for a purpose and only the fulfillment of that purpose will bring us pleasure.”

“Let me guess your purpose is reviving your master and killing all who would oppose them?” Mouth, time out, right now! Terra just started at me as if wondering how it took so long for me to figure this out. “What would happen if you went against your purpose? You know made your own decisions?” Suddenly I felt an all-consuming pain surrounding me as if trying to tear me apart.

“My very soul would be destroyed while my body became nothing more than a statue for the birds to use for the rest of eternity.” Sound like you care damnit! I felt the pressure slowly leave me as I slowly fell to the ground. Slowly looking up I see Terra lean back in his throne as if I was a play he got bored with. “Which is why for now I will wait here and let you play with my future pawns and sacrifices.”

How I wish I could wipe that smirk off his non-existence face. “Then why aren’t you being affected now or with the other Oz?” I yell back as best I could sense my throat was still sore from whatever the bastard did.

“Loophole,” Terra replies as if telling a boring joke. “You are not me and I am still making plans for Sol’s revival so I am not affected. Besides even back with that human soul wart I was still separated enough that I couldn’t be punished by my master. But now with this new arrangement I need the loophole and the nuisance to have around.” Terra seemed annoyed by this. “Don’t worry about me dying though your soul acts enough of a filter that we will not have to act often. Especially with the state our other partner left him in.” Yeah dying would but a damper on plans.

“Well seems our time is ending now so don’t die, yatta, yatta,” Terra rolled one of his gauntlets as if my presence has lost all entertainment. “Become strong so I can subject them to my will when the time comes. I will continue to give you my knowledge about fighting so good for you.” I felt my hand slowly disappear. Well if wanted to act like I was some kind of court jester then time for a joke.

“Mister Terra… I don’t feel so good.” I raise one of my disappearing hands. “I don’t want to go.” I pack as many feelings in to it as I could and greatly enjoyed the groan, he gave me as I left this realm. Last laugh is mine while I make my own plan to beat his ass.

*****

Revenge. How one could carry so much meaning defied explanation. It was a being made from that emotion and even now that word defined it’s being. It had waited patiently gathering the power it needed to fulfill its Revenge, both old and new.

You know one says that revenge should be cold and ruthless but they were wrong. No revenge was a flame, a flame to keep you motivated and burn those who wronged you. They would remember that burn and then know not to cross you again. What would a cold slow revenge give? It would melt and leave you with nothing but an unsatisfying feeling where as a nice burning revenge leaves you warm and content. And that was what she would give those fools after all one does not plan for a thousand years and not have many a backup plan. Even ones that the idiot who played host to her would know about.

Oh, how she had plans for that doll. But which one? Oh, why not take her time maybe even ask the others. Oh, how delicious this revenge would be but for now she would wait and watch them. Watch and plan, oh so many good plans. After all who better to make plans than a true Queen.
> Chapter 7
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I stood on the deck of the ship after the game of poker as clouds parted in front of the ship. The clouds parted to reveal a huge city built into the side of a mountain framed by the setting sun. The city was like Rivendell with flowing water coming down the mountain and through the city before falling of different sections. The buildings were Gondolin with white and gold primary colors. A few parts of it were hanging over the edge of main mountain area but it looked like a fantasy kingdom straight out of a children’s book.

“Beautiful isn’t it?” Lemon said as she approached behind me. 

“Yeah,” I mumbled as it grew closer. Turning I saw Sunset going over Lighting’s newly repaired armor as if looking for the smallest imperfections. “Hey what happened to her?” I asked seeing Lightning sporting a fresh black eye. Upon seeing me looking Lightning was quick to turn away and focus on something off to the side.

“Oh, she hit herself in the face with her mop last night.” Must have been when the ship lurched. “And because the cleaning activated while she was down Commander Buns figured out what she was waiting for them so he had her running doing drills all night and won’t let anyone heal it.” Lemon explained as Lightning seemed to grow more tired as she went over the punishment. My heart went out to her and I felt the beginning of a Heal spell work its way through me. Suddenly the ship jolted and my magic fell down. 

Turning I saw the ship settle in what I could only assume was a docking bay. I let out a breath at the my almost breaking of the rules and for Lightning no less. Turning I saw Lemon standing like a statue. “Hey, something the matter?” I was about to put my hand on her shoulder but she lunged back. She turned and stared at me before relaxing.

“Sorry always get jumpy when the ship moves unexpectedly.” She threw out before quickly walking toward the ramp. I started to follow only to feel an armored hand clamp on my shoulder.

“Where are you going?” Shining asked from behind me. Now a wise man would stay quiet at this obvious trap of a question.

“I heard of this great doughnut shop and I’m just dying to try it.” I think you should have figured out by now that my survival instincts are not in that range.

“Sorry but you have to skip on Doughnut Joe’s. My men will escort you to where you’ll be staying tonight.” I let out a sigh as I began following him to two standing sentries. “See you soon.” And just like that, I watched as he and Sunset left with her team.

“Here,” Indigo said as she thrust a piece of paper and a ring into my hand. I shoved them into my pocket not having time to look at what I got before the guards pushed me down a path.

We walked in silence for a few seconds before I couldn’t take the silence anymore. “So, Doughnut Joe’s? They have the best pastries in town?” I asked trying for a casual conversation. Obviously, I chose poorly as the two guards almost seemed to go at each other and me with ensuing argument about confectionery treats. I tried to keep up but it was a lost cause. As the two kept the debate no one asked for alive I felt myself wonder. 

‘Huh, what’s that,’ my brain, or maybe Terra wasn’t quite sure yet asked drawing my attention to a nice shiny watch laying on the ground. It looked familiar, so being the reasonable idiot, I was, I left my guards and walked down the dark alleyway to pick it up.

Huh, it kind of looks like the silver watch from FMA. As I reached down to pick it up, I heard something in my head. I am the one who constructs and deconstructs, the partner and protector of the moon. I aid the innocent, and protect the children, If you require aid, call my name and I will come forth, The Crimson Sage  

Crimson Sage, what the hell? Well doesn’t seem like someone I need right now. As I move to put the watch away a thought strikes me, is this guy like the Demons I could summon? Well, there was only one way to find out. As I pull the watch back out, I focus on it, trying to summon the person, or thing attached to it. “Man, this is hopeless. I mumble tossing it up in the air. Too bad I couldn’t see the portal open above, after all, it was meant to be in front of the person summoning, not tossed aside like a fool. Nor the body of the summoned now falling toward him.


****


Oz got a very distinct feeling of deja vu as he was once again face down on the ground. Pulling himself to his feet he heard another groan come from beside him. “Just once I would like to summoned and NOT land on my back.”

“Sorry about that old timer I’ll be more careful about it in the future.” Oz waved farewell to any chance of a good first impression. It was a very tearful departure on his part. Feeling like he needed to somehow make up for it he offered the red-cloaked man his gauntlet hand hoping to at least help him up.

It was unneeded because between one blink and the next he sitting up and glaring at me. “Who are you calling so old that they were Fred Flintstone's first-grade teacher.” 

‘Yep I just summoned the famous full metal alchemist and managed to piss him off.’ Oz thought to himself not knowing if he should congratulate himself or not. He took a step back and raised his hands. “Woah was just joking with ya’. I mean you look young and in great shape. Names Oz by the way.” You could probably tell his mind was going in the please don’t hurt me direction.

“Though, technically you’re not wrong. Names Edward Elric.” Ed said leaning back on his hands.

“So, if you don’t mind me asking…how old are you?” Oz asked carefully like he was walking through a minefield.

“Oh I’m 2,136 years old, give or take a few years,” Edward said getting to his feet and dusting himself off. “Well, you’re another Displaced so I’ll forgive you. So, why’d you summon me anyway?” The alchemist turned his head taking in the surroundings. “Wait are we in Canterlot?”

Oz’s mind was a whirl of confusion. “Well, I kind of summoned you just to see if I could. But wait Displaced?” Well better get some of the unimportant stuff out of the way.

“Oh, I’m guessing you haven’t encountered any others. Well as the first let me explain a few things to you.” Ed took another step back and assumed the pose of a teacher. “Dimensionally Misplaced, or just Displaced, is the term given to those of us who transported here from another world.”

Oz nodded his head, “Sounds like what happened to me. I bought this sword and shield from some vendor dressed as the merchant from Resident Evil then next thing I know I’m here.”

“Yep that’s pretty common, I came across one other who encountered the same person.” Oz’s jaw fell. He didn’t know what to say. The fact that this was so common and was somehow being done by the same guy was kind of shocking.

“Who else did you come across?” I numbly asked.

“The Displaced was a Fairy Tail Mage named Lex and the time pony by the name Time Turner and. You met him?” Oz thought about it for a bit before he shook his head. “That’s okay I’m sure you’ll come across him eventually. So besides to talk you need help with anything?”

“No, I was just on my way…” The rusted gears in Oz’s mind started to turn as he ran back to the entrance to the ally. “Those jerks left without me!” The two guards were nowhere in sight and the sun already had set and the moon was now rising higher in the sky.

“Whoa, who left you?” Ed asked walking up behind me.

“I was supposed to head to the castle but the guards escorting me seemed to have left,” Oz said not wanting to let the alchemist know about the prison thing.

“Huh, lucky for you then that I know where it is.” Ed proudly said walking out ahead of Oz. “Just follow me and we’ll be there in no time.”

Oz started following behind Ed trying to think of some form of conversation to pass the time. “Seems this version of Equestria has humans.” He heard Ed say to himself.

“Is that weird?” Oz asked catching up so he was walking beside him.

“No, I’m sure it’s normal here but in my world, they look human but have horse ears and tails.” Oz’s mind tried to picture what he described but all he came up with was a blue screen. “Another version of Equestria version I visited was more of an anthro version where their feet ended in hooves and they still had their fur coat.” What? My mind popped up blue screen after blue screen. Lucky my minded mate smashed his fist into them snapping me out of it. Only for another blue screen to slink towards us.

“To totally end my mind breaking, is that an iguana in a tux.” True to what I said there was a purple iguana with green spikes walking towards us.

“I’m not an iguana. Not like you’d care.” The iguana(?) spoke, somehow.

“Spike?” Ed leaned down to examine the lizard who stopped and looked at the red Jawa.

“Do I know you?” How a non-human face could convey confusion Oz might never figure out. Though he might run many, many tests.

“Yeah, I don’t know anything about what’s going on, so if someone can fill in the confused idiot on some subjects like how reptiles talk and how spikes are related to it. That would be nice.” Oz butted in.

“Wait you guys can hear me?” Looks like when it makes a face it’s stuck that way. Oz and Ed nodded their head. “Well as I said before I’m NOT an Iguana, I’m a dragon.” One of its claws went up to its chest as if taking a pose of pride. “And my name is Spike.”

“Well nice to meet you,” I mumbled as Ed adopted a pose while mumbling something about differences to himself. “So, what’s a noble dragon doing out here so well dressed?”

The pride slowly deflated from him like a balloon. “Well, my friends and I were going to the Gala.”

“Say no more I think I know what happened,” Oz said cutting Spike off. “Your friends abandoned you,” Spike perked up while Ed nodded his head, “because they wouldn’t let familiars into the dance.” Both of them fell onto the ground. “Don’t worry my good friend we will reunite you with your friends and we’ll start by getting all of us into the Gala!” Oz thrust one of his arms forward pointing toward the horizon.

“The castle is that way.” Ed pointed toward a large tower in the distance.

“How was I supposed to know? I’ve never been here before.” Oz muttered while picking up Spike. “Now come on we have a quest to complete.”

“Hey, wait isn’t this kidnapping?” Spike struggled in his grip as they walked toward the castle.

“Where I come from it’s called surprise adoption,” Oz responded back as they neared the gates and were met with their first obstacle. “Now be quiet we need to think of how to get by the guards.”

“Spike do you have any tickets?” Ed asked the logical question.

“No, I only have one for me.” He pulled out a single ticket from one of his pockets and showed them. “Look it’s nice that you want to help me but this isn’t worth it.” Spike seemed to melt in Oz’s arms. “I just wanted a nice night of memories with my friends, seems we both won’t get what we wanted.”

“Hey, Ed hold this.” Oz handed the depressed drake to Ed while he took the ticket. “By the way, you got any kickass titles?”

Edward was caught off guard by the out of nowhere question. “A couple:  The Crimson Butcher, now the Crimson King, The Golden-Eyed Sage, and the Fullmetal Alchemist, why you ask.”

“Follow me,” Oz said as his sword appeared at his waist with the shield popping on his back. “Be prepared to run this might not go well.” Strutting forward Oz approached the guard with as much confidence as he didn’t have.

“Halt who goes there?” One of the guards yelled.

“You dare ask ‘who goes there’.” Oz poured as much offense as he could into that statement. “Surely you recognize THE Golden-Eyed Sage?” Oz waved his hands toward Ed who was being oddly quiet. “I’m sorry your greatness, I’m sure the guards will correct their mistake.” Turning back, he thrust the ticket forward. “Here is his ticket. Please hurry we must get in as soon as possible.” Walking forward he whispered toward Ed, “Act like we're talking.”

“Sure, let's start with what the hell you're doing.” Ed almost yelled back.

“What you never pulled or seen the Nigerian Prince scam?” Oz asked, “We tell them you're important, do some Alchemy, maybe make a seat or something.” Ed rolled his eyes before clapping his hands and putting them on the ground. Lightning danced around as a seat was formed in front of him.

Taking the seat Ed continued, “So by making them believe that we are who we said we are they let us in.”

“That’s the plan,” Oz turned around, “Well they had enough time to stew.” Oz marched back toward the guards. “Well, are you opening the gates or not?”

“Yes, they should be opened soon. Terribly sorry to make you two wait.”

“Three, you meant to say make you Three wait.” Oz corrected as The Golden Eyed Sage walked through the gates with Spike riding his shoulder slack-jawed.

“Wait, sir,” One of the younger guards asked running up to Ed. “If it wouldn’t be too much trouble could I get an autograph?” Ah, to be that naive, you know before the internet.

Ed gave a kind smile before taking the small book and putting his signature on it. “Sure, and kid… Drop the disguise you won’t fool anyone with an illusion spell that sloppy.” Oz kept a tight grip on his jaw as an aspiring young soldier was replaced with a hardened veteran.

“I’ll have you know I was top of my class.” Ed and Oz slowly made their way past him and other gaping soldiers.

“Then you need to raise your standards.” With that final shot, we made it into the grand hall. It lived up to its title because it was grand. “Now time to find the Elements of Harmony.” Oz took that term that his new BFF just said and filed it away for later.

“There’s Rarity!” Following their dragondar they spotted a woman with royal purple hair wearing a gold and gem-encrusted headband that doubled to hold her foci crystal. The dress was pink with gold bands running across it and more precious gems with it. “That must be Prince Blueblood with her.” True to the young drake’s statement there was another person with her. If the women looked like she got a manicure every two days this guy looked like he got one every half an hour. The dude looked like someone brought to life a Ken doll and forgot to give him an appealing personality. The guy wore a suit lined with diamonds with black pearls as buttons. Oz could tell just by looking at him that he loathed this waste of perfectly good oxygen. 

“But how are we going to get her away from him,” Oz mumbled rubbing his chin.

“Don’t worry,” The Crimson Butcher said preparing for a slaughter, “I got this,” and he found his next victim. No tears would be shed for the man(?).
> Chapter 8
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Rarity was not having a good night. It had not taken long for her to find her prince. But after finding him she was quick to discover just how UNnoble Blueblood truly was. He had only talked about himself and expected her to praise him at every chance. The man had even had her use her shawl to cover up a water spill. Now, here they were back in the hall talking to other nobles. ‘Someone please get me out of this.’

“Ahh, you must be Prince Blueblood.” A man wearing a red cloak approached with another man carrying a sword on his hip not far behind. The first man was a truly great looking figure with fine gold hair and eyes while the other had messy black hair and mismatched eyes.

“I am indeed,” Blueblood said turning to the pair. “And who might you be.” Now that the illusion was broken Rarity noticed how condescending he said that sentence.

“You mean you don-“ the black haired man began only to be silenced by the gold one raising a white glove up.

“Now, now Oz I don’t blame him for not hearing about me.” Finally a noble with some humility. “After all he has his head shoved so far up his own ass that the only sounds he does hear are the gurglings of his own stomach.” Raising one hand he gestured toward the prince’s stomach. “And judging by all the slimming spells you listen to it a little too much.”

“Dang…” Hearing the familiar voice Rarity was ashamed to only now notice her Spikey Wikey riding on the red cloak’s shoulder.

Blueblood ‘s mouth opened and close a couple times as the man turned to her. “Come now my fine lady surely you would rather spend the night in a finer company then these nobles in name only.”

“Yes, I believe I would.” Taking the chance Rarity showed the prince her back as she left. “So, you are my new date?” Rarity flashed her lashes at Ed. He had saved her from that wretched beast in tacky clothing.

“Wait, no Rarity,” Spike yelled reaching his claws forward. “Hey, you said you would help me. Don’t make me fight you.”

“No need I’m not a cheating man.” Ed let out a soft chuckle before pulling off one of his gloves and showed off his favorite piece of jewelry. “So as tempting as an offer you make, I’ll have to decline.” 

“And I, as a proper lady will have respect another’s man. Though if I may ask where is your wife?”

“She, sadly, has duties she had to attend to. So as painful as it is to be away from her, we know we shall meet up with her soon.”

‘Was that a threat,’ Oz wondered in his mind. ‘Quick distraction time.’ Finding his target, he proceeded, “So, you’ll fight him?” Oz asked the perched dragon giving his best grin.

“Well, what I meant, you see, umm…” The dragon said while he flailed around like a fish out of water. “Oh, look it’s Rainbow!” Finding a lifesaver, he pointed to someone who took their name to seriously.

“No that’s a person, who could use less color.” The women wore a toga with a primarily white section that went to a rainbow on the bottom section. She wore a headpiece that kept her rainbow hair back from her face.

“What’s wrong with her dress!” Rarity snapped at Oz.

“Nothing it’s just, well I think the rainbow color might be a bit… in your face.” Oz tried to defend himself. Moving slightly, he shuffled his way up towards Ed. “So, master what’s the plan with this one.”

Ed stared at Oz like he was some kind of idiot. “We walk up and talk to her.”

“Genius they’ll never see it coming.” The Demon Gazer praised. They continued toward the girl with Rarity taking the lead.

“Rainbow I’m so happy to see you’re okay.” The purple haired women ran up and embraced her friend who looked happy to see her. 

“Rarity how are you doing. The thing with the Wonderbolts isn’t going as well as I’d hoped.” Rainbow backed up a bit. “Wait you seem to be missing part of your dress.” Taking notice of the two others she shot a glare towards them. “Was it those two.”

“No, it was the dra- oof.” Oz was silenced by the elbow planted in his gut.

“No, those two saved me from that beast masquerading around as a prince.” Rarity sneered, “Oh, I have to make my displeasure about him quite--”

“There they are!” 

‘Huh seems like today was the day where nobody could complete a sentence without someone cutting them off.’ Oz commented to himself as he turned to see Prince Blueblood being followed by three people following behind him. They wore blue tops with a strip of yellow and tan pants with each one having some type of weapon on them. “What seems to be the problem, my good sir.”

“Step aside servant. I have no time to talk to trash like you.” The prince sneered before pointing at Edward. “That is the man who insulted me. I demand you have him arrested now!” 

“Whoa, whoa let's calm down here. Maybe there is some way we could settle this.” Oz said freaking out about this turn of events.

“Yes, I’m sorry obviously you denied normal conventions and shoved your ass up to your vocal cords,” Ed spoke not backing down in the face of another noble.

“Your jester is right, there is another way to solve this.” Blueblood spat as he threw one of his gloves in Ed’s face almost hitting Spike. “Let us see if you are truly a man!”

Ed grabbed the glove before it could fall and almost destroyed it in his grip. “Very well what are the conditions?”

“You and your servant shall fight two of the Wonderbolts. You win I’ll let you off with a warning. I win and you two will be lucky to see the light of day again.” As he finished The Golden Eyed Sage threw back the torn glove back at the owner’s face.

“Fine, I just hope you apologize to the cleaners. I can smell the mess you made in your trousers from here. Oh, I’m sorry that was your breath and rotting ego.” The alchemist grabbed Oz as he stomped away Rarity and Rainbow following behind him. “You can fight right Oz.”

“Yeah, I can fight,” Oz assured him. “Though I wish we had a chance to beat that asshole.”

“We would only be covered in the same shit he coats himself in.” Ed was quick to shoot back.

“Can someone please tell me what is going on,” Rainbow asked. “I mean why are you fighting the Wonderbolts.”

“It’s because of that monster Blueblood. The good sir Edward here was kind enough to save me from his grip, but it seems that he can’t stand a single slight against himself.” Rarity said before putting a hand on her head. “To think you’re in this trouble because of me. Oh, how can I just sit back and watch.”

“Bucket of popcorn usually helps me.” A cheery voice said beside Oz causing him to jump in the air like a startled cat.

“Ahh, pink ninjas!” Oz yelled landing on his butt pointing to the girl who was wearing a bright pink dress with blue and white striped top.

“No, I’m a Trickster class.” She seemed to take a thinking pose. “Though I have always wanted to live in a not so hidden village and wind up facing zombie tree people then have my child overshadow me in the follow up which causes all my fans to cry out. But you better believe that is a story for later.” At seeing everyone's confused face she shrugged. “Oh, how silly I forgot to introduce myself, I’m Pinkie Pie.” Leaning down she grabbed Oz’s hand and started shaking it.

“Who told this world about Naruto,” Oz muttered while shaking the cotton candy haired persons hand.

“Its Pinkie don’t question it,” Ed assured before taking her hand. “Spike you should probably get off, I don’t want you getting hurt in the fight.

“Why do I feel like I’m going to hear that a lot in the future?” Oz mumbled as he started standing up. “Well let's go fight, at least that makes sense.” He started walking to where a large circle had been formed. At the center of the circle were three figures. One was the prince but the other two stuck out. The shorter of the two wore a dress that reflected the night being primarily light blue with white stars scattered about it. Her hair was a lavender color with a pink strip running down it held back by a golden band with a lavender foci crystal.

The taller of the two though stuck out like a sore thumb. She wore an elegant white dress with gold highlights. Her hair was a flowing mass of color with pinks, blue, green, and atop her head rested a tiara and long white foci crystal. Behind her floated white almost angle looking wings. Her very presence demanded attention and respect. So, I’m guessing this was Princess Celestia, the alicorn of the sun.

“What seems to be the problem here?” My mouth asked before Ed could.

“Oh nothing, my nephew here was informing me of how you two challenged the Wonderbolts to a duel after insulting him,” Celestia said like a mother who was told a story from a child. Which Oz thought was accurate given how old she supposedly was.

“I assure you Princess that is most definitely a lie.” Rarity said slowly walking forward. “Sir Edward here- “

“Worry not about defending us. I’m sure the Princess already knows what really happened. So, with all due respect, I would like to get this spar started.” Ed said as he walked toward the combatants.

“Well if that is how you want to do it may I suggest a little change?” The sun asked with a grin trying to break on her face. “You seem quite confident so how about we split the teams? Your companion and Spitfire against you and...”

“Rainbow Dash,” Ed said as Celestia was looking over the other Wonderbolts. All the heads turned toward him. “I will fight with Rainbow unless you have a better choice.” He couldn’t have made the question more baited even if marinated it for four days. 

“So, you wish to fight with the element of loyalty?” The matriarch asked as she turned toward the said individual who had adopted a deer in the headlights approach. “If it’s fine with her- “

“YES.” The girl yelled as she sprinted into the makeshift arena. Getting a nod Oz made his way across the arena towards his new ally.


******


What was today? First, summon another being from a different world, illegally entering a fancy party, insult a prince of the land, then get into another fight. If I survive today, I’m not getting up from bed, or I’m just going to hide under it for the rest of my life. Well on the bright side any weapon the alchemist made had no way to stand up to Demon Slayer. 

“Hey kid,” I felt one of my eyes twitches as I turned to face the woman who couldn’t be one or two years older than me. “What’s your friend over there?” Was that racist, it sounds racist. Well, white lie time.

“He’s a Terran if that’s what you're asking.” I shot back as I grabbed my sword and shield.

“No, his class,” Spitfire said drawing her twin blades.

“Oh, he’s an alchemist.” I saw her relax before everyone heard a thud as Ed summoned a giant crystal claymore.

“What the hell kind of alchemist is he?!” Spitfire yelled at me. Is this teamwork building? They have weird ways of working together.

“The best kind,” Ed said as he hefted the blade with ease. “So, you done gossiping over there? I smell some pies and would like one in the next couple minutes.” He turned toward his ally with a calm smile. “Let’s show them what we got.”

Spitfire stood up a little straighter, “Yes show me the strength you used to take down Nightshade.” At both of their cheering the jittering prismatic haired girl settled down. Well, guess it’s my turn.

“I agree with Ed I would like to get started soon. So, can we stop praising her now because if you inflate her ego anymore it'll smother me.” At the dirty glares, I just gave a lazy smile, “What, just saying what their thinking.” I gestured toward the crowd gathering around. Huh looked like purple hair was almost yelling at Spike about something. Oh well, not my problem.

“Well if the combatants are ready?” At reviving four nods the, hopefully, fair Princess slammed down her staff. “Begin!”

I barely had a second as a green arrow hit my shield. The blast of air was expected but the intensity of it was more than Lightning. My senses went off as I swung it up to block a follow-up fire arrow. The arrow hit and mixed with the winds causing a hell storm around me. Sensing another attack incoming I pushed forward and lunged forward right at a surprised Ed who was deadlocked with Spitfire. Seeing me coming he pressed down on Spitfire as his right arm grabbed her scarf. Having a good grip, he turned breaking the weapon lock
and allowing him to toss her at me.

Time slowed down for me as my instincts kicked in. Throwing the shield up in the air I was able to grab her and stop the follow-up air bolt. As we rolled on the ground, I saw my faithful shield get launched away from me. I didn’t have time to see where it landed as I was forced to drag Spitfire away from Ed’s swing. Demon Slayer was raised to block it but upon the crystal claymore hitting it I felt my arm almost break from the hit. And that was with me blocking it with my sword! I can’t get hit with that thing.

Tumbling back a quick Heal spell fixes most of my injuries as I’m quick to drop Spitfire from the awkward hold. “Seriously what kind of Alchemist is that?!” She was quick to her feet and thankfully they seemed to be giving us time to regroup. 

“Listen you’re a Pegasus right.” At seeing her look at me I continued. “I can hold off Ed for a while but we need to get the archer down and I can’t fly.”

“You sure, it seems you lost your shield.” I gave my best-determined nod as I watched Rainbow and Ed talk. “Alright think you can give me a distraction?” My mind went wild trying to think how I could pull that off when I heard my keys jingle at my side. “Well let's get the show on the road.”

“Comet, Flash!” I felt something break in my head as a flash of light blinded everyone, well everyone except for me and my allies. Taking the chance, I Concentrated while words flowed from me, “Change gear 2!” In my previously empty hand, I felt a heavy weight fall into it before it lightens to be barely noticeable. The new weapon is just as long as Ed’s claymore back a mix of a bronze hilt and red blade as if it attempted to catch the Sunset. I knew this blade it was Fallen Angel’s Blade a more powerful sword then Demon Slayer but a two-handed sword so you can’t equip anything else but it, normally. If I was able to use both so easily then there was only one answer, I had Gods Arms equipped. Gods Arms allows one to dual wield anything except for bows.

I don’t know what other artifacts I have equipped but right now I can’t care right now. I was nearing my opponent and only had one shot at this. “Terra Bane,” the attack was unleashed but it seemed Ed didn’t spend over 2k years doing nothing as he raised his own claymore and hid behind it. Both swords swung as they both unleashed three attacks. They all hit but achieve nothing more than pushing him back a bit.

“Alright what was that?!” The crimson butcher asked.

“Why that was my limit break Mister Cloud Strife.” My mouth responded. “And this is my spell, Bolt!” The aura spear shot out and hit the claymore only to fizzle out as if nothing happened. We both stare at each other for a second.

“I hope you were comparing me to the Kingdom Hearts version.” Uncovering himself from the blade he stepped toward me.

“... No, the TFS version.” Well if I dug a grave may as well make it one with a clown horn and shoes. Ed didn’t seem to take well to this comment as red lightning flashed across him while he swung his sword at me. “No don’t use your limit break now!” I managed to get out as the massive blade hit the impromptu shield of the two swords. As the swords met, I only had one thought, “OWIE!” I felt my legs leave the ground as I was thrown across the arena. As I enjoyed my flight to painville I cast another Heal spell while noticing my almost depleted MP. As I passed by Spitfire, I was glad to notice that she had taken down Rainbow something. As soon as I landed, we could team up and take Ed… hey was that a window?

CRASH

Yes, yes it was I thought as I now lay against a tree. I felt something scurry up my leg as my foggy vision was overtaken by some rodent-like thing. “Hi, can I be your new King?” I mumbled while trying to use what MP I had left to cast Heal. Not seeing a response my mouth continued on autopilot. “You see we need to overthrow the Tyrant Squirrel King.” Well, that was a dead end. “Now go Joahn, gather your comrades. But it is dangerous to go alone take this.” My hand passed my subject a small veggie. Wait, the item pouch we had healing items! A couple more creatures gathered around as my public squeaker went on about something while waving around the veggie. As my brain told my body to eat something it was halted by vines ensnaring me.

“WHAT IS THIS!” A voice yelled.

“Flee my army, the goddess of nature has turned against us! We shall regroup under the cover of snow when she is weakest!” The creatures headed my advice as they all ran for cover. “You may have my body but you will never break the spirit of freedom!” A blob of pink and green walked into my distorted vision.

“How did you get them to come to you!” The blob pointed a brown something at me. I might be fading and hanging from a tree was not helping. I saw something red drip down my nose. Huh, that explains the lightheadedness I must be bleeding, a lot.

“Common enemy,” my mouth responded, it might have its own energy source. I felt a few of the vines tighten around me.

“Give me a straight answer! I will make the animals LOVE ME!” I felt some MP pour in to me. Seemed enough to Heal with. So, I did which allowed my vision to clear. The blob gained focused and showed a girl with light pink hair dotted with flowers in it. Oh, and the brown thing was a staff so I now realized that I was being held hostage. Well only one way to solve this.

“GOLDEN EYED SAGE! A LITTLE HELP. NOW!” I cried out hoping for some support.

“You used some sage technique? Is that how you got them to come to you?” The vines tightened further properly cutting off blood flow. 

“What do you need… Fluttershy?” My red-coated savior asked deeply confused.

“WHAT?!” The now named Fluttershy asked before noticing the large number of faces looking at her. Her face started out a light red before upping the brightness. With a small meep, she threw herself into a bush where her staff acted as a pointer showing where she was. I was still left hanging, get it, by the tree as Ed approached.

“What happened?” He asked exasperated.

“Oh, I was attempting to lead an army against you and she wanted my recruitment techniques.” My mouth went on joyride explaining. Ed just stared at me for a few more seconds before turning to Spitfire who was laid out on the floor near Rainbow Dash. “Darn looks like I was too late to assist her.” Ed gave a twitch before turning toward me.

“You need training.” He stated firmly. “I will not accept any other answers got it?” I only nodded my head too afraid to say anything for once. “Good and one last thing before I leave.” A magic seal appeared before he did his best Gate of Babylon impression by summoning hundreds of swords. “BLUEBLOOD YOU WILL NOW TELL YOUR AUNT AND EVERYONE WHAT YOU DID TO THE ELEMENT OF GENEROSITY! DO SO NOW BEFORE I USE YOUR HIDE AS A TRAINING DUMMY!” At seeing a wet spot travel down the price’s leg along with a few people back away and cover their noses Ed looked pleased. “Well, my job is done.”

“And I’m sure you took no pleasure in it.” I snarked causing Ed to turn towards me with a grin.

“Your first exercise shall be freeing yourself from that trap. See you at the train station, I expect to leave bright and early.” I knew the bastard was laughing to himself as he walked away. I could only turn my head as Joahn landed on my arm and gave me a sad nod while taking a bit of his veggie stick. With that, I hung my head in defeat while I was confronted by a rodent.
> Chapter 9
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I did a pretty good zombie impression by shambling toward the train. It took me longer than I would’ve liked to admit to get down from the tree. My subordinate had stolen a few more veggie sticks from my bag and left to get help… I think he committed mutiny but I had no proof, yet. When I had asked for help Spike ignored me and left with his friends after convincing Flickercoy out of the bush. I think I got her name wrong but I had almost no energy left to care. They seemed to want to leave only stopping so Wingbeat could heal Rainbow Sortie. Probably didn’t help that I was trying to chew my way out. What my arms were tied up at that moment. After I had gotten free it was already nearing sunrise so I didn’t have much time to find the Aegis shield, which was sitting by the hole, and make my way to the train station.

“Wow you look like shit,” My new slave driver said upon seeing me. I gave a grunt as I approached. “Oh, I found this really nice hotel, I had to examine the beds because they were some of the comfiest, I ever felt.” My eye twitched as he said this. “So, what was that technique you used last night, Terra Bane or something.”

“Terra Bane allows me to turn what should be one attack into three,” I mumbled as I slumped into the bench. My hand went to the bag and pulled out a small trinket. It resembled a small pin with a triangle in front of a hexagon. This was an artifact, you remember Gods Arms, an in-game item that allowed one to learn non-class techniques. The one in my hand was Mars Bane, I never got Terra Bane because I didn’t see the point when the upgraded version was easier to get. “Catch,” I tossed it to him. “If you put it on, you’ll learn Mars Bane, the next stage of Terra Bane.” Seeing him staring at the pin for a few seconds I took my chance to ask a question. “So, what was with the Gate of Babylon recreation?” 

“That was the lost magic Arc of Embodiment.” My sluggish mind went blank for a second before rebooting.

“How do you know Fairy Tail magic?” I asked the very reasonable question. Ed attached the pin to his clothes before it glowed and disappeared. The Arc of Embodiment was a magic that allowed one to create anything they could imagine. Couldn't remember the limits if there were any.

“I now know how to break reality. Got any more?” My hand again went to my bag to fish around in it. “To answer your question, I came across a Displaced Levi who taught it to me.” My hand came away with three more in my bag. Mana Recovery I & II along with God Arms, all which I thought I had equipped, must have some spares. Since he was an ally of some kind, I passed him them to him. 

“Those three are passive skills. Two of them are Mana Recovery, one restores MP while you walk the other while you fight.” I don’t know how would one measure MYS so I didn’t mention it. “God’s Arms allows you to dual wield any weapon except bows.” Ed took the pins and was quick to put them on. “The only problem with them is you can only have five equipped at a time.”

“Thanks, I’ll have to try them out at some point,” Ed said as the train slowly started pulling into the station.

“Don’t worry about, you did promise to help train me after all,” I mumbled as I tried to stay awake. I felt my eyes start to flutter close.

“Sir Edward is that you?” A familiar voice jarred me away from dreamland. No, come back captain Nemo.

“Ahh, Rarity it is good to see you.” The alchemist polity bowed to her.

“Keep acting like that and I might have to steal you away from your wife.” Rarity teased, as the others walked up.

“Hi, people and dragon we kidnapped,” I muttered while trying to focus on the conversion. 

“You did what?!” Purple and pink hair yelled helping me wake up more.

“We helped him meet up with his friends like he wanted to do,” I mumbled while looking at the dragon on the shoulder. “Oh, hi Spike, did you get the night you wanted.”

“Yeah after we left the party, we went to donut joe’s and had a great time,” Spike said looking really happy but my sleep deprived mind was on something else.

“Why are you naked.” Unlike last night Spike now wore no clothes. Everyone seemed caught off guard by my question. “Though it is good that you had fun with your friends.”

“Wait you can hear Spike?” Pinkie asked appearing next to me. I gave a nod as my answer while Ed seemed intrigued.

“So are we not supposed to not hear him.” 

“No, as you noticed Spike can’t yet use his vocal cords so instead, he uses a simplified telepathy that all dragons can.” Ed nodded along like what she just said made sense. Wait what was her name? Did I ever introduce myself to her? 

“Hi, names Oz, you remind me of this Captain I met.” I stuck my hand forward properly cutting off whatever nerd conversion the two were about to have.

“Twilight Sparkle, apprentice to Princess Celestia.” I heard Ed chuckle while saying something about how some things never change.

“Oh, how is she, I hope we didn’t cause her to much trouble last night,” Ed said while we loaded onto the train.

“Think nothin’ bout it.” A southern drawl answered. “If what the girls say is anythin’ to go by you did the right thing putten that prince in place.” As I fell into the first seat, I finally took notice of who was speaking. She had long blond hair done up in a ponytail and emerald green eyes with a few freckles dotting her face. “Though I’m sorry I was too busy to see ya’ spar.” Please don’t bring that up.

“Oh, that was so awesome. You should have seen it AJ we were going back and forth. I even got to fight Spitfire!” Rainbow said as she flew up to us. “Though why the princess had us split up like that I still don’t get. Though how I wish I was up to see the end.”

Hearing a squeak, I turned to see the pink haired girl from last night. When she noticed my look, she seemed to try and melt into the train seat. Thankfully for her, my mind went to what I was trying to remember. “Now I know where I heard your name!” I said pointing at Twilight. “Your Shining Armor’s sister!” More head turned toward her and away from me.

“Twilight you have a brother?” Pinkie asked confused. Twilight answered with a nod while still staring at me.

“Yeah, he’s captain of the royal guard. But how did you know we were related?” Ed seemed happy with me talking with the group.

“Oh, he lent me a couple books. Some of the very questionable subsistence.” Once again who puts walls of texts in COMIC books. People should try to minimize the number of words in comics not take up pages with it! Rarity went red-faced while Ed almost fell over. “I couldn’t finish a few of them because of how descriptive a few of them went. I don’t need to know every little thing.” Twilight had adopted a look of sheer horror while AJ looked like she was reevaluating something. “And that's not even getting into the mess supposedly mess left behind by them. I mean I guess it's realistic but I don’t want to hear about every little stain-” I felt something hit me in the back as my vision went black. Oh, guess its nap time now.


******


The cart fell into silence as Oz’s word vomit was ended by Ed knocking him out. They stayed in awkward silence for a few seconds. “What’d you do that for,” Applejack asked as Oz was placed comfortably on the seat.

“He was obviously tired, so I’m letting him catch up on his sleep.” Ed defended/explained himself.

“Wow, you really know how to handle the guy.” Rainbow chimed in while poking Oz stunned how deeply he was sleeping.

“Comes from experience.” Ed chuckled glad the previous talk went down with Oz.

“Oh, how much experience do you have?” Twilight asked also happy to bury the past with cement.

“Around two thousand years,” Ed explained. The occupants of the car were quite while holding a silent debate about whether he was telling the truth or not.

“Yes, come my minions we shall overgrow the flower kingdom,” Oz said aloud in his sleep while a grin broke out on his face. “Joahn shall be the first in line for the feast.”

“Um, I don’t mean to interrupt but, um, should we be concerned about what he said?” Fluttershy asked peeking out from behind her staff.

“Not really,” Ed said while relaxing in his seat.

“But he said he was going to take over the plant kingdom!” Pinkie exclaimed popping up near the group.

“Half the stuff the guy says is just a smart-ass remark, just ask AJ and she'll confirm he means nothing by it," Ed explained alleviating any concern they had.

Rarity cleared her throat to get the groups attention. “I’m with Sir Edward on this one, these two have proven they are more than trustworthy.”

“I’m with Rarity on this one,” Spike said as he moved over to sit on Edward’s shoulder.

“Just call me Ed, I’m not too fond of titles.” He said giving his best-relaxed smile.

“So, where you two goin’ anyway?” The paladin asked glad the ice was long gone.

“Oh, I wanted to check on the Castle of the two sister ruins.” The car once again fell into silence at this. “Is something wrong?”

“Well the castle isn’t off limits per say, but, no offense by this, are you sure you're ready to go through the Everfree?” Twilight asked awkwardly.

“Yes, I’m quite sure I can handle what that forest has to offer.” Ed wondered what this version of the Everfree had.

“Well, I do owe you for helping me.” Ed turned to look at the dragon on his shoulder. “So, to fulfill the dragon code I shall help you get there safely.” As Ed was about to object another voice cut him off.

“Well, I do suppose I too need to repay my debt. It would be nice to see Steven again, oh I hope his wonderful mustache is doing good.” Rarity chimed in.

“Well, you did let me show my stuff to Spitfire so I guess I could take some time to give you a tour through the forest.” Rainbow said before her grin went atomic, “If you're lucky I might even tell you about how I took down Nightshade.”

“Well, shucks if they're going, I guess I might as well come to. How about Flutters?” The Apple asked turning to the druid. “From what I hear you do owe that Oz guy.”

Fluttershy turned atomic at the reminder of what she did one night ago. “I guess I could go. I mean if that's okay with you.”

“Oh my gosh, best idea ever!” The cotton candy haired trickster yelled while pulling out multiple notebooks. “We could have a picnic at the castle. I’ll pack a whole bunch of food like cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes, ice cream cakes, and maybe even ice cream cupcakes!” Already Pinkie had filled out four pages of the notebook. “But where would we fit the coolers maybe behind the freezers. No, the freezer keeps saying that the cooler is a prick.”

“Well, I guess it’s settled.” Twilight chuckled at her friends' antics. “We’re all going into the Everfree with you.”

Ed let out a sigh at this. If these girls were anything like the ones from his home dimension then he knew there was no point in trying to convince them not to come.

“Oh my gosh, we’re going to have so much fun!” Pinkie yelled while putting away a full notebook.

“Doom flags, so many doom flags,” Oz mumbled as the train continued on. “The Flower Kingdom is sure to fall. Nothing shall be forgotten.”

******

Sunset paced angrily near Celestia in the courtroom. Shining had left not long ago to grab Oz for his trial. This morning had been a disaster in every sense of the word. Not only did she have to share her time with Twilight the damn girl had actually forgotten about her. HER rival had not even known she existed! Not only that she had a bigger team than her. Twilight had insisted that they were her friends but Sunset knew better. She knew that someone like Twilight was incapable of making close friends. If Twilight was going to add more to her team then so was, she.

“What do you mean you lost him!” Shining yelled at two sun guards.

“Sorry, sir we were heading to the palace when he escaped.” The two idiot guards said going stiff. “We have patrols ready to find him.”

“What seems to be the problem here?” Sunset’s mentor cut in. 

“It seems Oz somehow escaped,” Shining muttered. Sunset felt part of her crush under the realization that the person she hoped to recruit had left.

“Hmm… this Oz wouldn’t happen to have black hair and different colored eyes, would he?” Everyone turned toward the sun princess at this. “Because I believe I met him last night at the party last night.” A mischievous grin grew on her face, “But still please do put out that search warrant I would very much like to meet this man.”
> Chapter 10
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“So… this is the Everfree?” I attempted at small talk. Yesterday was an interesting ordeal. Yes, Ed and Twilight had decided that it would be best to take a day to plan the trip into the Everfree. After the train stopped I was woken up by the girls and was then thrown into my first day of Ed’s boot camp.

I wasn’t new to training schedules having played soccer all the way through high school. Granted, I wasn’t good enough to be on their team but I still played on a recreational team. Even still that hadn’t prepared me for what he’d put me through. We’d slept in a spare room Rarity offered. Well, Ed had slept in the room I slept in the shed after making one too many comments about her business, demon cat, and her dresses. Jokes on her though I had found a well-used bed out there.

“Yep, I’m glad we got past the whomping willows so easily.” Pinkie said while taking her time walking. Once again, the group descended into an acquired quiet. So, looked like it was up to me to fill it. 

“So, Ed, you never told us who you’re married to.” My head moved through the trees as we neared a clearing, which for some reason had part of a boats mast sticking out of it. Now how did that happen?

“Oh, I’m married to Luna.” Ed happily informed me. He seemed so proud of it too.

“Wait do you mean Luna Lovegood?” My mouth asked before my mind could catch the question.

“No, the princess dumbass.” Oh, my feelings they’re bleeding. Did I say something to offend him?

“Wait, you're married to Princess Luna?!” Twilight yelled while the rest of the group looked shocked.

“Well, the Princess Luna of my dimension.” Now they looked even more confused. Meanwhile, my mind was still trying to figure out how I’d managed to piss him off so badly. Oh, maybe I can make it to him somehow.

“Woah, hang on a sec’. Your dimension?” Apple Cinnamon(?) asked Ed.

“Yeah, Oz summoned me here from my dimension,” Ed explained while pulling something out of his bag. He turned around and showed them a picture, the picture showed Ed with a different version of the group around them. A couple differences were made apparent through the people in the picture had tails and horse ears. Both Twilight and Rarity had horns growing from their foreheads while Rainbow along with… the pink haired girl had wings growing out of their backs.

“Wait, you're a Pegasus?” I asked while looking at, I really should ask her for her name. While Ed pulled a locket out and showed a picture of him with a beautiful woman with long flowing blue hair. She had both a horn and wings so following whatever logic existed that would make her an Alicorn. 

“Well guess you weren’t pullin our legs about bein from another dimension,” AJ said while rubbing the back of her neck.

“Wait is that how you knew you could trust me!” Rainbow yelled while somehow bobbing in midair. “Did you fight some sort of powerful villain with me!”  Ed chuckled while putting away both of the pictures

“No, I had actually just got done with training my version of you six.” Twilight stood still for a few seconds while her mind went over this information. 

“I think we need to turn her on and off again,” I said while poking her. “Ed you broke the wizard, can we get a new one?” He answered my question by shooting a dirty look my way. “Hey Pinkie got a cure for this? Mine involves, less than pleasant methods.”

“Yep leave it to doctor Pinkamena!” Said person popped up beside me wearing a stethoscope. Weird hanging thing doctors have around their neck. “So, let's show this problem not to deal with us.” I really tried not do it but years of repression needed to be answered.

Pulling the stethoscope of hers’s I altered my voice slightly while letting out a dog whistle. “Listen Roberta how about you stop playing doctor and tell me what's wrong with our patient. Or are you too busy in fantasyland playing with your candy bracelet collection to have grabbed the chart from the bed of flowers.” They stared in awe of me while I moved a finger in front of the still shocked Unicorn.

“Well, doctor it seems she has suffered a mild brain shock.” Not missing a beat pinkie had a pair of scrubs on now and holding a chart.

“If I wanted an answer that obvious, I would have called that blind guy who stands on the corner facing it. Huh, this no use, Lacy go get me a nurse we might need extreme measures.” I had glanced over the chart which was filled with plans of how to throw a ‘Late Alternate Dimension Wedding Shower Extravaganza’. “Oh, and if you could be kind enough to not badger her with another story about that new cupcake recipe that you found in that new candy and your book you found that be great.” 

Pinkie hopped over to what’s her name and started chatting to her. “Nurse Fluttershy,” there we go a name, hopefully, I’ll remember it, “Doctor Oz needs your help. And I found this great Carrot cupcake recipe that I just know Angle would love.”

Well having a few seconds, I moved the still unmoving Twilight over toward a tree. “Heya Twi, thought I let you know that we need to get moving so I really, really, don’t regret this.” My hand moved into my bag and pulled out a glowing blue bottle, which I threw at her, lightly. The bottle made contact with her and upon breaking drenched her down to the bone. “Well Nurse Butters I leave it up to you and Lisa to finish helping our, and by that, I mean you're, screaming patient.” Stuffing my hands in my pockets I walked forward toward Ed who had watched the scene with muted disbelief.

“Well, we don’t got all day.” I kept walking the somewhat beaten path. As I took a few steps forward I felt something pass me and saw Ed take the lead again. Turning I saw Flutter listen to Twilight go on about something while her horn drew out all the water her clothes had. As the group descended into silence again, I once again took up the task to fill the silence. Over the next couple of minutes, we had covered a wide range of topics such as magic, animals, and various bits of history. Which lead me to a very valid concern. “So, do we have to worry about any of those things? I mean I would hate to have a run in with them.” 

“Oh, I don’t think we have to worry about them.” Fluttershy said quietly with me barely hearing them. I stopped and drew my sword and shield while letting out a sigh, Ed seemed to catch on to what I was thinking.

“You just had to jinx it didn’t you?” No sooner than I had said that did than a bush started rustling near us. “Well, it better come out. there's no point in a surprise attack.”

“No fun, no fun, we would tear one to pieces and laugh at stunned face.” The creature that walked out looked like it had jumped right out of a D&D manual. It had the body of a lion, wings of a dragon, and spiked tail of a scorpion. This thing was a Manticore if I’d ever seen one. “Now though, now we fight.”

“Fluttershy can you entrance it?” Twilight muttered to the Druid who had gone as ridged as a statue.

“Manticores aren't supposed to be able to talk,” Fluttershy said to herself. Seeing a chance for an easy kill the beast lunged at her with a speed it wasn’t supposed to have. Ed was quick to push her out of the way but the Manticore still bit down on his arm. With all its strength it dug its jaw into the arm now in its mouth but the arm gave no blood.

“Hope you enjoyed the taste cause that’s going to be the last thing you’ll ever get,” Ed yelled kicking the beast off. As the creature spat out small bits of crystals, steel, and blood. 

“Arm is not meat buddy and it hasn’t been for a very long time now,” said ED with an evil grin as he ripped his sleeve to reveal the crystal and metal arm underneath. Everyone just stood in shock as the manticore got back on its feet or paws. “I don’t know how this world works when dealing with manticores, but I’m pretty sure you can’t just stand around like idiots with a deer in the headlights look on your faces. Oz, time for a few lessons about using the environment, so get your ass over here.”

“Yes, Ed-sensei!” Action time, so don’t look like an idiot. I Concentrated as I arrived next to him.

“Arm not real, me bite off other arm then you make match.” The freak of nature spat out one of its teeth upon realizing this it let out a long hiss. 

Ed took a long look at the thing analyzing every part of it before giving a nod. “You know the most important rule of a fight right.”

“End it as soon as possible. Never give your opponent time to recover. Stay vigilant.” I listed off what I could think of.

“Yes, to all of those.” Ed pulled his claymore out of his bag before taking a second to think about something. Making up his mind he planted the sword in the ground before clapping his hands together. Taking that as a signal the manticore charged forward but I was able to smash it in the face with my shield.

“Terra Bane!” Once again reality broke as the attack dug in but apparently the D&D monster guide was not lying about its natural defense cause it barely sunk in. That or I was way weaker than I thought. Either one was just as likely. 

“Sword is made from Darkness. Will take to master, master will reward.” Spat the rejected art project. 

“So, your master uses dark magic, do they? I would very much like to meet this person. There aren’t a whole lot of people out there that can wield it without succumbing to its corruptions.” Ed rose a replica of his claymore from the ground.

“Yeah tell the minion to take us to the boss cause that always works out” Oz snarked trying to get a glance of the others.

“Who knows this might be one of the smart ones.” Ed returned playfully.

“Me no unfaithful. Me always bring subjects for master!” The fur rose up on it before it let loose a howl.

“Huh guess it is smart, it brought reinforcements.” From all around approached wolves made of wood. 

“Please Oz these are nothing,” Ed assured. “Wait I take it back, they’re perfect training dummies for my new skills!” Turning back, he pointed one of the swords at the creature born from an orgy. “Oz next test knock that thing out so I can teach you how to properly interrogate someone for answers. Mars Bane!” With a single slash from his swords an unfortunate kindle wolf was turned into toothpicks as two became eight. “Me and the girls got this.”

Well I believe that he was a teacher of the hard knocks. So, facing forward I was not expecting him to put a hand on the back of my head. Suddenly I felt a flow of knowledge such as Gate of Truth and the three basic steps. “Well I know Alchemy now and have an entire Wiki page queued up in my brain tab.”

“Make good use of it.” As he took another swing clearly enjoying God’s Arms, I saw the manticore take a leap at me. Raising my shield, I once again blocked its attack. I had reused my Concentration skill so I was able to get another Terra Bane skill off. I felt waves of magic and power behind me but couldn’t risk taking my eyes off this creature. I saw one its paws swing toward me with unknown speed I dogged out of the way while pushing the limb with my shield.

“Master will get impatient soon. Quick allies gather sacrifices we bring all to Master.” Damnit, I ran through options but each one wouldn’t end this so we could get what we needed. I wanted this done as quick as him cause I didn’t to face this master in the woods. I needed help and soon.

“Did you forget what we could do?” Terra asked while my keys once again jingled at my side. Well I could be forgetful from time to time, so yes. I still feel like I was forgetting something. Pushing that in some cobwebbed part of my mind warehouse I focused on the chain representing my connection I pulled on. 

“Come Forth Comet!” Reality broke as a blue chained hole opened up beside me. Out from it flew a little blonde witch girl riding a wooden broom stick. She was obviously not human cause due to the joints that shown with an inner blue light. A book appeared in front of her and shot out a beam of red that set fire to the manticore. Comet started flying around me before releasing a few green sparks.

Comet was the first demon you obtained in the game and was a primarily magic focused Demon. “What creature summoned. Will it bleed when dead?” Manny wondered, what I had to name him.

“Let’s see you try. Comet hit him again then assist the others.” Once again in game you couldn’t control the demons when released but well, I think it has been proven that game to life features very from time to time.

“You got it big brother.” See she can talk now, big difference than never saying anything. The sound thing that flew around her let out a blast as a pure bolt of white hit Manny again. After the blast hit the F rated minion fell to ground letting out a whine while the damaged needles in its fur fell out. Another chance presenting itself I rushed forward and tried something new.

“Terra Bane.” Not wanting to risk hitting it again with my sword I thrust my shield forward. As the skill took effect I watched in numb silence as what should have been one face smash turned into three. The thing stumbled back daze putting pressure on its hurt paw resulting in it falling forward for a fourth hit.

“See you did good, though you didn’t need alchemy.” Ed walked before me covered in wood splinters and green goo. “So, feel like talking now?” The Crimson Butcher raised the once noble beasts head with his sword. “Who and Where is your master.”

“Answer now and receive a free healing.” Oz tempted while feeling the chain that represented Comet who was floating around occasionally letting loose a few green sparks.

“This one never betrays master. Return to castle home for punishment. Will laugh when see you broken in front of master.” The thing poked out its tongue before snapping shut destroying it. I could only stare in shock as it then turned into a cloud of black smoke and disappeared. 

“Well guess you were right about it being stupid.” Ed mumbled before turning to Twilight. “Mind teleporting us to the castle?” 

Twilight seemed to have been writing down a note as Comet offered word suggestions about. “Yeah just need to wait a second. Need to finish this.”

As we settled in to wait, I noticed Comet float over to Pinkie or maybe they were caught in each other’s orbit. The two were very animated with each other but I could feel the chains binding her to me slowly fade to nothing as the time passed. Letting out a sigh I finally got down to it. “Comet return to your key.”

“Okay, call me again when you need me.” The girl waved goodbye to Pinkie and Twilight before flying back through a portal. 

“Ahh why did she have to go? We were having so much fun.” Pinkie whined while comforting Fluttershy.

“So, what was that anyway?” Ed asked while looking at me for answers. I wanted to say Demon but that would lead to more questions which we didn’t have time for so I went for something a little more believable.

“She’s something similar to a Homunculus, that’s the easiest way to describe her.” At seeing Ed’s intense look, I carried on. “She is a very advance doll that has something powering her. So, homunculus is the easiest way to explain. I’ll give you the full story someday.” I promised as Twilight let out a triumphant noise.

“My letter is finished, okay let's go find that master and get some explanations from them.” Putting on her most determined face she focused while her horn lit up. In a burst of magenta light, we were in front of some castle with its drawbridge down. “So, should we split up and look for clues?”

I was ready with a retort but a shrill voice cut off my answer. A corpse shambled into view with a tattered robe and hair loosely attached to it. “Apple, Apple,” It yelled while walking around.

“Listen me and Oz are the most capable fighters, plus if things go bad, I can pull me and him into my world to survive.” Ed reasons while pointing at the corpse that drew closer. “You guys finish that quick and then we meet up in the hall room.”

“Please we’ll have this finished in ten seconds no problem.” Rainbow boasted while the litch fell of the bridge only to reappear on top of a multi headed skeleton dragon. “Ahh make that twenty.”

“Sir Edward please proceed ahead, we shall be along shortly,” Rarity said while summoning gems around her. “And Oz stay alive we must teach you about how to treat a lady.”

“Remember we just need to hold out until the princess arrives with help.” Twilight assured as Ed and I rushed forward past the lumbering skeleton hydra. “We’ll be along shortly.” A skeletal hand started pulling up a massive ape like creature. “I hope…” she finished quietly.

Upon entering the castle, I felt something pulling me forward like there was something I needed to see. “If I was a betting man, I would say that whoever this ‘master’ is that they’re likely in the throne room.” Still running we continued past the garden and hallways towards the wide-open room. Entertaining it we found the master… of nothing. 

“They must have heard us coming and turned invisible!” I yelled while walking around. “So, keep an eye open in case they try to stab you in the butt!”

“Damn it where are they. If we don’t find them soon, we head back to assist the six.” Ed yelled while doing their own look around.

“Got a good idea where they are.” I spoke up while Ed ran towards me.

“Where?” He asked looking around.

“Oh, you know the gapping vortex of black with a don’t enter sign.” I pointed at the portal hidden behind the moon throne. Ed gave me a look that spoke volumes about my rapier wit. “Well my strong handsome mentor how about you go first I would hate for my manicure to be ruined.” 

Ed gave me a look that could dry an ocean. “Get in there now!” I gave a salute before taking a running jump into the portal. As I opened up my eyes, I saw a field full of grass with white and blue flowers dotting the landscape. Looking up I saw a full moon hang in the sky with stars hanging around it. 

“Wow,” Feeling Ed land nearby I stood there taking in the ravishing view for a few more seconds.

“It is, is it not.” A regale voice said drawing our attention to women who I swear appeared out of nowhere. I definitely didn’t overlook her. “This is what our sister deprived our subjects of and when we take out place this is what we shall give them.” The woman had flowing dark blue hair with a few white spots and holding it back was a royal blue headband with a matching foci crystal. She wore a blue combat outfit that showed of quite a bit of skin and hovering behind her were black dragon like wings. Held in her hand was a black and blue glaive that radiated bloodlust. There was only one person she could be.

“Well I must say it is an honor to finally meet the princess of the night.” I spoke while stepping past a stunned Ed. He must be proud I figured out who she was despite the different appearances. “Did you know he’s married to another version of you?” She didn’t even seem fazed by what I said and only let out a soft chuckle.

“It is good to see we are still recognized despite being freed from our host.” Not Luna said, what I caught on to what she implied. “So how about good knight would you like to improve past that simple doll you are wed to?” Well looks like she spiked the ball back to our court.

“I would never betray Luna!” Ed yelled focusing on the thing in front of him like some form of burning feces. “So, you’re the Nightmare Moon of this world then.” Edward said not needing confirmation. Also, to add to my ever-expanding list of shit I apparently need to know, add Nightmare Moon please.

“Is that what they call us now?” Well if we’re getting setup time then better take advantage of it. I felt my MP drop as I cast Heal over me and Ed to top off our health. “We are no Nightmare we are the True Maiden of the Moon. We are the one who should be called Luna not that hallowed husk you claim to married to.” That seemed to piss Ed off even more as his fist almost destroyed the hilt of his swords. “But I can see you tire of this conversation as much as we do. So, come to either offer your life to us or offer your souls to make us stronger!” My mind flicked to the end of what she said. 

Souls to make her stronger. Well guess I need her alive to answer that. For now, exposition was done and it was stabby time!
> Chapter 11
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Oz brought up his shield feeling like it was needed. If the cannon hitting it was any indication then he was right. It wasn’t as strong as Ed but then again, his arm didn’t care. Pushing the shield slightly Oz saw an opening, “Terra Bane!” The three slashes hit a black mass that after being struck sprung back to Nightmare Moon. ‘What the hell?!’ Oz yelled in his mind as what looked like a black clawed hand disappeared into her shadow.

“Quite an interesting technique.” Moony praised moving out of Ed’s way. “We shall have to break your mind to find how you do it.”

“Just try it!” Ed yelled pressing his attack using his new abilities. “MARS BANE!” He screamed swinging both his swords. Nightmare Moon rose her glaive while a bubble formed around her as the eight slashes pushed her back.

“Slot two, Bolt,” Oz yelled as the shield was replaced by the claymore while the spear flew from his eye. Moon starred as the spear passed her shield and blew up in her face.

“So that was what it was supposed to do,” Ed said jumping back as the bubble popped like well a bubble.

“We will kill all the ones you love!” Moon yelled ridding herself of the former regal attitude. The smoke parted to reveal Night with bits of her armor broken and unlike Lightning she didn’t wear anything underneath. “We shall start with the youngest and work up!”

“You already said you would kill them and us why threaten more?” Oz asked feeling the demon chain. “But you have a point, Ed we should finish this up.”

“Right let’s take her out!” Ed nodded as bits of red lightning flooded out of him.

“Come forth, Comet!” The gate opened as she flew forward sprinkling green fairy dust around while laughing. Oz followed after Ed enjoying the fact his arm wasn’t hurting as bad anymore. As the neared her four shadow hands sprung out of the ground. Oz swung at the one in front of him but unlike the one before it did not leave. The arm shoved Oz back while he turned and saw Ed able to push his back.

Closing his eyes, he saw the battle laid out in his mind. Moving forward again he hoped his plan would work. “Slash 3!” Reality broke as multiple attacks were sent out. Unlike the Bane series the Slash was to put it simply an AOE effect allowing Oz to attack multiple individuals at once. Unfortunately, his weapons didn’t have the range to hit NM but the slash did get the four arms.

“Do you really think you two mere mortals can fight the True Queen of The Night. Our reign shall know no end. No one shall remember you!” Any chance Oz or Ed got they weaves through the arms to land either a Mars Bane or Slash 3. “Let us show you what your resistance will lead to!” The scenery changes to a heavy fog before revealing a burning city. The city seemed familiar with white walls that were covered in red, oh wait that’s blood, but what seemed to be meant to capture our attention were the bodies strung up in various forms of decay or dismemberment. Part of my mind was puking its guts out but I just looked at NM with a bored expression.

“Really, I saw worse in movies and haunted houses when I was ten.” Seeing one of the hands trying to sneak up I lashed out with a Slash 3. “Right Ed, Ed?”

Edward stared forward looking at one of the bodies. “You know I have my own titles. Long ago I was the King of the Minotaur’s. They referred to me as the Crimson King due to my red coat but before that… I had another name.” Ed said coldly as the once controlled red sparks started shooting off in random directions.

“Um, Ed I don’t think we need a fancy bug zapper right now.” Oz said backing up a little.

“Oh, is that so? Then tell us what your other title before we turn make this a reality?” Nightmare Moon said uncaring while calling forth more black hands.

“They called me the The Crimson Butcher. A name that I did not want. Even now the mere mention of that title is enough to have most people turn tail and run.” The sparks started increasing in intensity and speed.

“Ed, I think you might need to calm down a teeny bit.” Oz mumbled while looking for the portal.

“My what an interesting little title we shall let you tell the tale of how you got it before your end.” Nightmare Moon said like a Queen looking down on her subjects.

“I was given that name because I slaughtered armies, the color was not from my coat like my king title but because I was covered in all the blood of my enemies.” More and more Lightning poured out of him till he looked like a walking red tesla coil. “And the fact that I looked like this!” Ed screamed as he charged at the shocked Nightmare. When one of the arms came close to grabbing him Comet came in with a book bomb.

“You take down NM, we’ll take down the arms!” Oz yelled while unleashing another Slash.

“You better cause I’m going to show her how I earned those titles!” The Crimson Butcher yelled, “Mars Bane!” The battle escalated slowly as Oz and Comet fought against the shadow arms barely holding them back. Meanwhile Ed was pounding away at Nightmare Moon with all the power he could.

“You will not win, We will not be deprived of what should have been ours. We are not a copy we are the real Luna!” The queen yelled as more wounds started appearing on her once flawless skin. “Is what I did so wrong, they blame me for what that brat did. She is the shell, we are the real one!”

“Shut up!” Ed yelled swinging his swords with Mana Regen proudly working overtime to keep him full. “You will not hurt my family!”

“Bolt,” Oz unleashed the spear at an arm that got too close to the alchemist. He was having to restrict his spell usage due to him needing to cast a Heal spell anytime one of the arms got close to hitting him. Oz could already feel his body being pushed to its limits. If not for Comet using their healing sparks then he would have been down for the count a while ago. Right now, he could feel the puddle that was his MP already almost gone.

“NO, NO, NO,” NM shouted as her glaive broke apart. “Our strength, our power where is it. That wretch took it from us. We shall flee for now, wait for our return and your punishment!” She slowly started to disappear into mist.

“You’re not going anywhere!” Ed yelled as he brought forth the Arc of Babylon. The swords appeared with a red glow around them. “MARS BANE!” The swords launched at women as reality shattered. Each sword was already charged with the red energy now tore into her to deliver four slashes each. At a glance Oz estimated that there were around twelve swords of decent make so that was around forty-eight strikes being delivered at once.

The retreating queen let out a scream of pain and anguish. Her body rematerialized while falling into a lump on the ground. The once flowing hair turned into a mass of normalish purple hair. What remained of the nightmare’s armor she clung to as blood flowed from open wounds. “You think we will die, no we are immortal we will always come back. So, go ahead do what your anger dictates. Kill what your wife truly is. Did you have the same reaction when your wife showed her true self.” The weakened spirit spat at her executioner.

As Ed went to swing his sword, he felt a hand grip onto his arm. “I feel like you above everyone know she is lying.”

“She is! There’s no way Luna is anything like her!” Turning Ed saw a very roughed up Oz standing beside him.

“Then don’t let her win.” Oz said letting his grip go on Ed. “I don’t know much about your world, or this one, but… well,” Oz fumbled for a second before letting out a breath of air. “It's just, is she really worth continuing the Crimson Butcher name?” Pointing down at the honesty pathetic pile she now was.

“Guess you’re right, but what are we supposed to do with her?” Ed asked as the red lightning died down.  

“Don’t worry I got this, you go home.” Oz causally said before seeing Ed about to object. “Ed something hit me, you are in love with your wife, Luna.”

“Well of course I am.” Ed said shocked at what Oz said.

“No, I mean you are in LOVE with being in love with her. I saw it first when you showed off your ring to Rarity. You probably clean that thing every chance you get with how clean and well maintained that thing is.” Oz pointed out before continuing. “Next was in the forest, you lashed out at me when I even hinted at making fun of her. Then when you showed the group the picture of your wedding day you looked so happy. Both in the picture and just looking at it. Hell, just mentioning her seems to make you happy.” Ed seemed embarrassed at this time. “Then when you saw NM’s fake hung up you lashed out like someone killed… well I got no analogy cause I doubt there is anything worth as much as she matters to you.” Taking a breath Oz finished up. “So, in conclusion I have no idea how you can stand to be away from her for so long except that your love for each other has pierced boundaries. So, with that said go home and be with the girl who you love.”

Ed let out a chuckle at hearing him finish, “Well you’re not wrong. If you’re sure I’ll leave a copy of the training schedule with you. So, hope you don’t mind if I take your token.” As Edward said this a black Key fell into his hand shocking Oz. “Huh neat trick.” As the portal opened Ed stated walking away before stopping one last time, he looked Oz in the eyes. “Hey Oz for what's it worth I think you have potential, just watch that mouth of yours. You have a tendency of being too much of a smart ass.”

“Aww, did you hear that Comet, Ed-sensei thinks I’m smart!” Oz cheered while Ed chuckled and left. “Now on to you.” Returning his gaze to the down woman he saw her trying to crawl away. “I hope you’re ready.”

“And what does tho plan to do?” Nightmare spat at Oz and watched as the pink blob fell short. “As we said we are immortal, we shall never know the cold embrace of death.” Turning fully, she felt suddenly constricted when she noticed the glowing, piercing blue eye of Oz. “Mortal what is with that eye! Why do we fear it!” Blue chains sprung up around her pulling her into the center of the mass. “What are you doing! We command you to stop!”

“Sorry just doing my job,” Oz said coldly while she was pulled into a small blue chain ball that flew into his eye. Oz cast one more glance around and fell down. “Comet rest for now I’m going to need your help later.”

“Okay big brother!” Comet chimed while returning back to her key. Oz felt horrible about everything that happened. But more importantly about why he sent Ed away. When he looked around earlier, he saw that the portal that had let them in earlier had vanished. He was locked in and he didn’t know how to get out, yet. Oh, he had ideas but until he ran out of options he was not running to Ed’s world. He still had his pride damn it… he would at least wait three days before considering it. But for now, he needed a nap.

*****

Twilight stood in the throne room going over everything that had happened today. First the fact about Ed being from another word. A world where he was married to Luna. It had been all too much for her and she had needed a second to take everything in. Apparently, Oz and Pinkie had taken that time to perform some sort of comedy routine. Then some sort of new species of Manticore attacked. Things had spiraled out of control after that. When they had arrived at the castle the long thought dead necromancer was still around and had found a HYDRA to bring back.

“Move!” Pinkie yelled while pulling out her favorite cannon and shooting it again with a piñata. When the wooden horse hit the hydra, it exploded again and again as it had been filled with dynamite.

“Apple!” The litch yelled for the fifth time during the fight.

“You guys not done with this thing yet?” Rainbow asked firing a fire arrow off at the skeletal mass that was trying to use its heads to get up. “Me and AJ finished up a while ago.”

“We don’t have a paladin to keep it down!” Twilight yelled before bringing up a shield to prevent the things breath form ending them.

“Well we might have to wait a bit longer. Flutters is healing her up after her rush attack.” Shooting an ice arrow off the elementalist froze one of the beast’s feet to the ground.

“Hopefully Ed and Oz are having better luck.” Rarity said while enchanting a gem. “I’m running a bit low on gems right now.” Content with what she had made she launched it at the litch that was healing the hydra. The gem hit her square in the head and blew part of it off.

“Apples!” The thing yelled while the beast rose off the ground.

“Know what you mean I don’t have much power left in me.” Twilight said while blasting at the leg. “She wasn’t this strong last time!” The foci crystal on her head slowly lost its luster.

“Well last time I don’t think she had a two giant monsters on her side.” Rainbow went to notch another arrow only to find her bow empty. “Well I’m out to… how much longer until the cavalry arrives?” The hydra somehow took a breath and exhaled a torrent of hellish green torrent of flame. Twilight attempted to raise a shield but got little no more than a small bubble around her staff.

When the flames got to close a pink barrier formed around them. A familiar barrier to Twilight. “BBBFF!”

“Men pin that thing down, I want it done yesterday!” Shining Armor yelled as his spear glowed and he marched forward. “Don’t worry Twili, big bro has this.”

“APPLE!” The almost headless skeleton screamed as a bolt of white light struck from above.

“You will not touch my apprentice!” Princess Celestia yelled descending from the heavens. Twilight felt herself relax a bit at seeing two of her favorite people arrive. Sun and Night guards swarmed in mass around the crippled hydra. “Twilight are you unharmed? I came as soon as I got your letter! Where is the manticore and master you mentioned?”

“They’re in the castle! Sir Edward and his squire are fighting it!” Rarity said in a rush. “We must hurry, they could be in danger!”

“Very well let us go,” Celestia nodded before turning to regard the others. “Where are Applejack and Fluttershy?”

“Here your majesty!” The apple paladin announced as she limped toward them the pink haired Druid not far behind. The Princess took a moment to take in the groups appearance before coming to a decision.

“I shall go on ahead, you six shall stay with Captain Armor and receive medical help.” Celestia said before turning toward her most trusted, and competent, soldier. “If they try to follow restrain them.”

“With all due respect your majesty, wouldn’t I be more useful with you.” The Captain said extending his barrier to swallow the rest of the group of friends.

“Yeah we need to go with you so we can get all the plot twists. Like who the master is, what became of our new friends, and what type of pie is their favorite!” Pinkie screamed while pounding on the immovable object.

“Don’t worry I do have backup. Come along Sunset we have work to do.” A very familiar woman followed after her mentor along with three others. Twilight watched as they entered the castle and disappeared out of sight.

“Twilight were being replaced with secondary and tertiary characters!” Pinkie wailed, “I will not be anything less than a MAIN character! I will not be another IF!”

Sunset followed her mentor along with her group toward what would have been the old throne room. “Keep your eyes open we don’t know what awaits us.”

“Of course, your highness.” It was good to see them act professional when needed. Upon entering the room, they came across the sight of the once proud standing thrones being torn apart by an anomaly spewing out red lightning. “What the hell?” Lightning asked breaking formation to walk toward it.

“Lightning no!” Sunset yelled as her crystal lit up as one of the stray bolts flew toward her. The automatic defense of her armor kicked on but the shield was destroyed before anyone could see. As she was pulled back her armor was already falling to pieces.

“Let’s not do that again.” Lemon said grabbing her spear. “What the hell is that thing?”

“Well it should be a portal.” Celestia said leaning forward with a greatly intrigued expression. “But it appears that something is Deconstructing it from the inside.”

“Wait, didn’t they say Ed was some type of an alchemist?” Indigo asked before throwing a rock at the swirling mass. The rock flew right at the mass before it was turned to dust by the lightning.

“Yes, but I never knew a type of Alchemy that could accomplish this.” Celestia said before the lightning turned in on itself. “What is it doing now?” Then right before their eyes the portal stated shrinking.

“That’s not good.” Captain obvious Lighting said as the red bolts tried to reenter the portal. “Shouldn’t we do something?” Before any of them could react the mass vanished disappearing before their eyes.

They were left in silence for a few seconds before Lemon broke it. “Oz was in there to, wasn’t he?”
> Chapter 12
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I trekked across the field of flowers and grass. I had no idea how long I had been here. Days, weeks, probably just a few hours. God I was lonely, no one to talk to, it was maddening. I had got a few moments to practice my new Alchemy skills. But I still need people!

I had tried talking to Comet but that had been a dead end. Sense I had nothing to fight the chains had run out and left me alone again. I had tossed around the idea of using Ed’s token to talk to him but he was probably busy and I had a few things to try.

“Ow!” My foot hit a solid red hammer, it looked kind of familiar, where had I seen it before? Picking it up I felt something enter my mind.

“Thou speaketh to the lord of Dawn, lord and friend to the Olog and Uruk people! If they wish is power, then thou hast found thy aim! If thou desire is domination of mine allies? Then may the gods have mercy on thy soul! Hold my Hammer aloft and strike it upon stone with intent twice, and thy call shalt be heard!”

Well what are the chances. By the way... Olog and Uruk if I was right then this was going to be great! “Lord of Dawn, I am Oz the Demon Gazer, I call you forth!” I saw the portal open up before me. I held my breath as a Pale white skinned humanoid demon appeared, with red, pulsing demon wings and a sharp, spaded tail. “Well that definitely wasn’t in the films.” I muttered lamely taking in the thing before me.

He looked around, seeming to see me but instantly dismiss me before he looked back towards the portal “Hey, Orvok, your turn to get some training in. We gotta be prepared for anything, and your magic might help.”

“Yeah and don’t worry about breaking anything.” No idea who he was talking to but after being alone for maybe two days I’ll take anything that can talk. “This is a pretty empty dimension. So, hey no property damage.”

Just as I finished talking, a tall Uruk dressed in vines, red thread, and red crystal over animal pelts plated with gray metal came through the portal, armed with a very fierce looking druidic staff. I don’t want to say it but I’m pretty sure that guy could kick my ass and still be in time to worship his gods. Dude looked scary so I had better watch my mouth.

“Oh, good a plant expert, can you tell me if I’ll cough up my lungs if I eat these flowers, I’m rather attached to them staying in my body and don’t want them escaping again.” Damn you mouth!

The Uruk and the Demon turned to me before the Uruk smiled warmly. “They seem to be alright for eating, although, I sense some trees about twenty minutes in the way you are headed, they seem to have fruit that is safe to eat that would likely taste better.”

Well it was good that I hadn’t killed my first impression yet so time for talk. “Thanks, I’ve just been eating what I have stored in my item bag. Like I said this dimension is almost empty. Besides the plants I think we’re the only living things here.” It was true I had used Comet to search for things to kill and the magic Demon had said that there was no life in the area.

The demon frowned “So, I assume you are trapped here?”

“No, it seemed like a lovely spot for a vacation. I mean who doesn’t want to spend the rest of their lives trapped in an empty realm after killing the dark half of some Moon Demigod?” Thank you mouth we appreciate your contribution.

The demon looked to the Uruk and smiled “This guy has balls. I like him.”

The Uruk nodded. “Most people freak out at seeing you, but he seems to be keeping relatively calm.” 

The demon then facepalmed. “We forgot to introduce ourselves…”

The Uruk broke out laughing. “Wondered when you’d figure that out, brother. Okay, let’s see...I’ll go first, I’m Orvok Wooden-heart, and this is my brother, the king of comraich, Simon SIVA-master.”

Simon gently smacked Orvok upside the back of his head. “You know I hate that honorific.”

“Well guess it’s my turn. My name is Oz the Demon Gazer.” I waited a bit before going on. “And well I summoned you here to maybe get your help escaping this place been trapped here to long already.” Seeing them still look at me I sealed the deal. “If you help me, I will award you with this!” Reaching back, I pulled out a bottle glowed a rainbow of colors. Information about this item flowed through me. “Behold God’s Hand an item that summons forth a miracle from the gods themselves. Results may vary depending on which god you ask for help from.” Hey who knows how this thing works now that it was in reality. I had tried to connect to Aris to get her power to summon miracles but… well she was too powerful and almost destroyed my soul so that was off the bored. But I was strong enough for Mars and Chronos. Sorry went off on a train of thought. “So, what do you say deal or no deal?”

“Do you mind if I have a look at it for a second.” Simon asked holding out a hand. Not seeing anything wrong with it I handed it over to him.

Simon eyeballed it for a second, a red light going from his eyes as if he were scanning it somehow… He then smiled “This can call up void dwellers too? Nice.”

“...Yes?” I didn’t know that and I was the one who owned it! How did he know that?

He then smiled to me “I recently met a friendly void being who was actually responsible for my displacement, he could probably send us three to your home dimension. Well, the one that is your new home.”

“Well that would be nice. Good thing I got like four more of these things to use.” I pulled out a similar bottle. “So lame question how do I use this?” 

He grinned and grabbed the cork “Think of the being, then pull the cork! It’s kinda like a genie bottle, but no rubbing the side.” Doh! Now I feel kinda dumb...

He then pulled out a black, heat warped key with what looked like a fire made from the night sky sealed in the space of its handle, with a coiled length leading to three teeth. He held it in the same hand as the cork and pulled, the bottle releasing a blinding light as a door appeared in front of us “...that’s it? A door leading nowhere?” I said, somehow expecting more.

Simon held up a hand to shush me, and inserted the key, the door then opened to show, through its frame, a massive fortress like stone complex. “Say hello to the realm of the Huntsman.”

“I get to meet RWBY characters? Or is this like Norse mythology?” I needed to know! How snarky could I be and not run the risk of leaving only a dust stain.

There was then the clearing of a throat as I looked around to find we were suddenly inside “Thou art a guest of sir Simon? Good, look upon me, man child, as I look upon thee.”

He was in head to toe plate armor, with a helm in the design of a human skull, with the back of the head seemingly warped from an unseen heat into the something analogous to the shape of a crown, the metal appearing to be warped from rust, overuse and that same unseen heat. Below that there was a more or less standardized full medium shoulder plate and greaves. His gauntlets and boots were light enough to walk in, thick enough to take several blows and also seemed warped, having seen heavy use. 

The strange metal plate and chainmail on his torso was covered by a raggedy dark grey cloak that went down as far as the elbows, and a bit further down along the back, holes riddling it throughout. The ends flayed out like sad, decrepit streamers, dancing in an unseen wind. It went up, covering and wrapped around the neck area, and there was something about it that was similar to a sort of skirt, going below the knees. One side went further down than the other, and the ends seeming to be almost like a pale fur of an unknown animal. Several belts were at the waist, mostly chains and loop hooks.

In his right hand was a weapon about the length of a longsword, maybe a bit longer, but seemed to be more similar to a dueling lance due to the spiral-like blades, though it was too small to be so. The blade at the pommel was shorter, half the size of the longer one, and the hand guards were circular baskets, as if made for a rapier or cutlass rather than a lance.

Within the cracks, crevices, and visible empty spaces in the armor, a dark aura wafted off gently, yet menacingly, similar in appearance to the cold night sky. Flecks of small dying cinders and embers jumped out and faded away as they floated gently away on an unseen breeze. The ‘sword’ was the same, the space between the twin spirals seeming to generate the malevolent aura in a similar way to the armor. It was like a blazing inferno being contained by an unseen force, as if he was willing it into containment. 

Well guess who I wasn’t going to piss of, got that mouth! “So, are you from Vale or Atlas?” God damn it! Maybe literally, I felt Terra groan inside of me.

The Huntsman chuckled, a deep resonant laugh that almost seemed to sound from inside my head. “I am of the void, child of man, bound to demon of the dark sun. Thou art quite fortunate that thy visit was alongside Simon, lest I mistook thee for another intruder upon mine home.”

How the hell did he know about Sol! Or for that matter Terra! I could feel him shift from within me. “Well guess my luck had to kick in eventually.” 

Simon smiled as Orvok busied himself with carving some sort of bone charm. “We were wondering if you could help us get back to Oz’s new home, as of his Displacement?”



The Huntsman smiled “It shall be done, but first, hast thou improved his equipment with thy power? We would like to do so as well, but thy SIVA is one of few materials that can contain my power.”

“Wait hate to but in here but Siva, as in nanomachines? Second do I have to pay for this cause I’m kinda, very, broke. I got some artifacts if you want.” I hated handouts so they are taking something if it’s the last thing I do.

Simon and the Huntsman grinned. “Nah, free of charge, really, although I won’t refuse new magic. And yes, my body is made of SIVA, in fact, I am a living swarm of the stuff.” That made so much more sense, in that I knew nothing.

“Well you accept Mana Regen? Or something that will let you double cast?” I should still have spares laying around somewhere.

Simon nods “Should let me use my Javelins more effectively, so sure. Oh, and I don’t think The Huntsman needs anything.”

He shook his head “Nay, the first favor must always be free, as are the rules of my existence.”

Well if he was offering, “Any chance you could do something about the soul I captured a couple days ago. She’s a very bad guest, I’ll kill something for you if you give her back trapped in a key.” Hey long shot but if it got Nightmare Moon out of my head, I’ll take it!

The Huntsman nodded. “It shall be done, would thou prefer a cyclops, a trio of elementals, or a SIVA infected Hive Ogre?”

“Um…” Damn it backed into a corner. “Any quests you need solved?” 

Simon raised his hand, “As per the rule of Mentorship, I take the weight of his challenge doubled unto myself.” Well someone is getting a full revival item and both of the artifacts he asked for.

The Huntsman nodded “Good, we were about to regret not telling him all the rules we are bound by. T’would have been quite a shame to have to fight him as an intruder.” Aw, I think he likes me. Despite my smartass responses. 

Simon nodded “Yeah, the smell of burning flesh and boiling blood is not fun. Anyway, let’s do this, I choose the two Hive Ogres.” Well if he’s going to be fighting might as well make small talk with his friend who he brought along. What, I can tell when someone is about to mop the floor with weaklings!

Shuffling over to the stands of the arena like area, I saw Orvok and The Huntsman sitting next to each other as if they had been for a few minutes. Orvok looked to me and my confused face and smiled. “Oh, you seem confused, never visited the realm of a majorly powerful being? The Huntsman is a powerful being born of a prison for eldritch beings that pose a threat to the multiverse.”

“First off I make it a rule not to intrude on things that could smite me with a bad look. Second… do they share a cell with Cthulhu?” What I’m curious, not every day you get to find out if mindflayers are real.

The Huntsman chuckled “That whelp is nothing compared to what lurks beneath my realms prison. Although, a few beings do call my realm home willingly. Most of those are safe to talk to, as so far as one does not attack them.” Well that was pants shitting scary.

“Quick question, how did these come to be?” I held out the God’s hand. “And what is entitled in the summoned miracle? Asking for a friend.”

The Huntsman shook his head “We are not at liberty to say. There are other beings responsible for thy displacement, and we have agreed with them not to encroach on Knowledge thou should discover on thine own merit.” Great now I have to do work. Speaking of avoiding work I look down and not surprising to see that Simon is cleaning house down there.

“So Orvok, got any family you want to brag about. Do good enough and you might get an artifact that breaks reality.” What they seem to respawn. So, I might as well treat them like candy.

Orvok frowned uncomfortably. “Ummm...sorry to say I have none left, my worlds Celestia is different from most...she ordered my village collected, harvested, and given to a local Lich for raising as an army. I was lucky and visiting my blood brother Grimgor at the time… L-let’s change topics, okay? Err… I do have someone I’m looking to propose to, but I worry she might be upset with me.” Wow my foot tasted delicious.

“Well first here’s your prize,” I tossed him a random artifact not really caring about what it was. Searching my brain, I looked for a new conversation to work with. Should maybe fact check Celestia, make sure she’s on the up and up. “So, hear anything about Balrogs recently? You know fallen angel demon things.” Memory why do you fail me about now! Come on Simon stop playing with the cool toys and finish up!

Orvok thought a moment “One has not been seen for a while, not since our god of War Guroth was destroyed by Solaris...And what do you mean fallen? The Balrogs were the servants of Guroth, they helped hold our borders for generations before Solaris intervened.” Huh seems like I’m dealing with different histories here. See this is why I need to study more, not that I’m motivated to do so.

As Simon finished the Ogres off, the Huntsman looked to us warmly “After we enhance thy blade, we have found thy world, the nearest place we can place thee is currently under attack, but we shall have Simon and his pet Graug accompany thee.”

“Yeah, but could we do something about the soul thing first, she’s getting kinda restless…” I feel like I overlooked something he said. Oh well, not that important.

The Huntsman nodded and made a key identical to Simons. He then plucked something from my head that looked like an orb of stars, and promptly crushed them together in his hand, forming a new key that seemed to glow with a gentle light. In other news ...OWIE, having a demon soul pulled out of your head freaking hurt! “Thanks, so how do I get back here if I need to do this again?” Knowing my luck, it would take about a week.

He chuckled “It is doubtful that thy shall need her soul fully removed a second time from thy being.”

“No, I was talking about other demons or souls I capture. Like if my Celestia turns out just as bad and I need her locked in a key for the rest of eternity. You know those crazy things.”  

He nodded slowly “Thou saw how Simon used a key similar to this one? The keys I make for you will allow thee to not only call upon their power, like thy demon keys, but also, they will open any door as a pathway directly to mine realm.” Well that was good to know. Should maybe give Simon a God’s liquor for this, full revive items are so useful. Just like him. 

Simon was then next to me and smiling “Woo! Feels good to fight something easy for once!” He then looked to me, seeing the key in my hand. “So, you mind if I upgrade your sword with The Huntsman? We are kinda in the business of keeping our friends alive.”

“Well if that’s the game then it’s only fair.” I pulled out a small doll, the Poinee doll. “This doll will take the place of you if you or one of your allies would die. Just to let know you will still be close to death.”

Simon nodded and took the doll before he nodded and put it in what I could only assume to be a portal back home. “So, with all the gifts given I’m ready to go back to the world of magic unicorns and talking rainbow haired archers.”

The huntsman had my sword in hand as I said this… wait... when did he take it? A small swarm taken from Simon as well. Orvok looked to me and chuckled “This is The Huntsman’s world, kiddo. He can do as he pleases here, he simply has to will it to be.” Was I that easy to read!?

“I can never play poker with you, can I?” Did I say that out loud?!

Orvok snickered as Simon and the Huntsman were busy infusing my sword. “Kid, poker would be terribly boring for me, as a Druid, I can tell whenever someone lies to me just by looking at their souls. Kinda defeats the purpose.” Wonder what my soul looks like. Especially given that Demon’s souls are supposed to be infinite. 

Orvok then looked to Simon and smiled as he walked over to us, the Huntsman still working on the sword. “My boost is done; your sword can shapeshift and eats enemy magic now.”

“So what forms does it have?” Screw the True Demon Slayer I’m keeping my new shape shifting sword. Wonder if I can access the magic it eats. Thoughts and tests for later.

Simon shrugged “Kind of up to you, although I’d not have it turn into anything alive, weapons turned into life forms don’t have nice temperaments. The Huntsman’s power boost, as he said for this one, will be that you can not only imbue your sword with the mystical elements, fire, water, etcetera, but also channel it through the sword into yourself, giving you a temporary power boost.” Hmm… wonder if I can channel demonic energy into it too. On another note no snake swords not only does it go against the Evil Overlord checklist but a Dark sword into a living thing just screams DUMB.

“Thanks, if there's anything I can do for you just let me know.” I felt the key fall toward me but I was ready this time. Reaching up I caught it and held it out to Simon. “I will come running.”

Simon frowned “You think I’m leaving this soon? No dice bud, your still in need of training, and I’m going to do it. Someone seems to have done decently with your magic, from my scans, but your martial mastery is a little low. No adaptability either.”

Was I that obvious! First Ed now him! At least Ed kicked my ass first but now I’m somehow sending out weak vibes… I blame Comet. “I wasn’t sending you off. I’m just a bit forgetful and if I didn’t do this now I might of forgotten to do it.” I said rubbing the back of my head chuckling.

The Huntsman was then to my left and holding out my improved sword, it looked largely the same, except its edge was now moving slightly, and it was surrounded by this aura that felt… it felt hungry. Like whatever hit it, it would just swallow whole. Reminds me of my brother after not getting breakfast. Or me after skipping lunch. Simon whistled “Nice work there, Huntsman, you have outdone yourself.”

The Huntsman nodded “He will need this boon, someone has sent a taken Balrog after you, Simon, I smell the ire of Oryx on you.”

You ever get that feeling like you were thrown into a world chalk full of history. That is how I felt right now, could really go for a wiki right now. “Wait what was that about Balrogs and ire? Should I be worried? I’m up to helping.” Hey I might not be that strong but I did have some Demons that were good for fighting.

Simon nodded “Yeah, and when we get to your realm, I’ll have Orvok go back for Snuffles, we’ll need the firepower.” Okay knowing anime tropes, Snuffles is either a badass grandma of Orvok or some killer giant monster. I’m hoping for the grandma angle myself, get some of those early embarrassing stories.

“So, shall we be off to go fight giant monsters, then stuff their heads and hang them on your castle walls? You do have a castle right... to scare off intruders?” I said slinging an arm over Simon’s shoulder.

Simon chuckled “Well, yeah, but it’s more due to my people insisting I don’t sleep in the pub anymore. Not my fault those booths are comfy.”

“One, how do they expect you to get breakfast beer now? Two, it is if you made them.” I said nodding my head.

Simon raised a finger, then lowered it. “Damn, you are right, it is my fault… anyway, the castle is supposed to be the center of Comraich, it is designed to oversee every square inch of the place from the tower up top, I’m currently expanding Comraich around the castle.”

I was half listening but was thinking on something else. “Hey Huntsman guy, quick question for you before we leave.” 

The Huntsman chuckled “Yes, man child?”

“If I seal the Balrog like I did with Nightmare Moon, could Simon or Orvok take it instead of me? I don’t really need a giant shadow and fire thing.” The thought had been hanging around in my head ever sense remembered the thing.

The Huntsman nodded and flicked my forehead, leaving an arcane mark behind, and a slight welt. “There, now thy sealing can choose a recipient. The mark will fade eventually, but the effect will be permanent.”

“Huh, guess I won’t be coming back here for more demon keys.” I muttered rubbing my head and feeling the mark. “So, Simon do you want it or should I give it to the Druid?” I asked walking toward what I hoped was the exit.

Simon grinned “Why not Snuffles? He’ll be needing the boost in power soon.”

“And here I was thinking you wanted to give him a playmate.” I mumbled out.

Simon shook his head “Naw, Snuffles plays with the citizens often.”

“Is it cute?” I asked, “Tell me on the way.” Turns out it was the exit. Then again with how this place works I think the Huntsman was taking pity on me.
> chapter 13
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

We exited on top of a mountain. Now I can say having grown up around mountains that I was not scared of heights… but damn if we weren't high! “Of course it’s in a mountain, why wouldn’t it be.” I muttered turning around to see Simon and Orvok exit the door. Upon closing, the door disappeared leaving no trace. “So any idea where we are?”

Simon formed a small ball and kneed it into the air like a hacky sack, it going a few miles high. Being a soccer player in the past I could tell he had a good kick and form. Hell he could probably give most World Cup players a run for their money. Instead of going down, the ball hovered at the peak of its ascent, then opened like an eye. I looked to Simon and felt ill when I noticed that he had formed that ball from his head.”You okay there best buddy?” I had to ask.

Simon’s body gave a thumbs up before absorbing some of the stone wall beside us, forming a new head. “Yeah, just made a little spy drone, Seems we are near your worlds version of Griffonstone, apparently they are harpies here, just like in mine.”

“Yugioh harpies or wing in the back harpies?” I asked trying to figure out what they looked like.

Simon frowned “err… never watched Yugioh. But…. not outta the back. Wings for arms.”

“Ahh… Yugioh harpies,” I nodded before turning back to look at the town in the distance. “So if they are related to griffons…. I got nothing. What are they like?” I think I failed my knowledge roll.

Simon smiled “They are greedy, but they are loyal friends once you get through to them. It’s hard work getting them to like you, but once you do, it’s a friend for life.”

“So should I try not to smart off too much to them?” I needed to know how much to scream when I say something bad.

Simon nodded. “Don’t compare them to birds or to cats, and we should be fine. Also don’t say any insults regarding feathers.”

“Well time to not think of pink elephants.” I start walking forward only to fall on my face when an earthquake shook the entire mountain. “Ow,” I mumbled from my new bed. I cast a quick Heal over myself. “Think that’s Snuffles new pal?”

Simon nodded as Orvok suddenly disappeared through a portal, a giant looking legendary Graug covered in red crystal appeared. It looked to me and waved “Friend?”

“The best!” I gave a thumbs up while screaming in terror on the inside. They were so much scarier in real life.

The Graug smiled happily “Yay! Friend! Share food when fighting done! Smell bad thing, want hurt poppa!”

“Thank god he meant the Balrog.” When was the last time I had a shower or bath? Note to self get a bath. “Hey Simon,” I whispered, “I smell better then him right?”

Simon shrugged “I have no sense of smell, lost it when I was eaten by SIVA. But Snuffles would tell you if you smelled bad, he’d say you were ‘stinky’ and try to get you to a river.”

I felt a hand slowly pick me up as my stomach dropped. “Which one of us jinxed it?” I yell while my feet left the ground.

Snuffles then set me on his head, a small seat like back pack on him, “Friend ride?”

Oh thank god, “Sure, but if you get tired or need a break just let me know. We need you big guy to beat the bad guy who’s illegally bird hunting.” I think Simon said something about not calling them birds but I forgot.

Snuffles snorted as if he were laughing “Funny! Friend funny! But need not say those funnies.” I’m trying Snuffles, I’m trying!

Snuffles then walked with Simon towards the rapidly approaching city, damn we were moving fast! How Was Simon keeping- oh right he can fly. I should really look into some method of fast travel, I think I can hook up mirrors to transport me across distances. “So do we have a plan? Please don’t say it’s attack.” I pleaded.

Simon laughed as we quickly reached the village, only to find that  the Balrog was pounding away at a huge dome of violet magic. Simon frowned “Okay, me and Snuffles will fight the balrog, you try to drain its power and seal it, okay?”

I attached another Demon, since I wouldn’t need Comet. “Come forth Chronos!” The gate opened as a woman covered in armor of silver and black appeared. She had long brown hair that showed through a horned helmet. Hovering over her shoulders were heavy black shields layered on top of each others held together by glowing blue chains. “I order you to protect the barrier!” She said nothing, only giving a nod of acknowledgement before flying over to the wall and blocking one of the hits. “I just need it worn down before I can seal it.” I mentioned while Concentrating.

Simon nodded and flew to the Balrog as he grabbed it’s chain by the burning end, roaring in rage as he absorbed the Balrogs weapon, using it to form several spear like things that floated around him as he pulled out a sinister looking bow with a red string. He drew the spear to the bow like an arrow and fired it straight into the Balrogs center mass.

Meanwhile, Snuffles gently set me down off to the side before the Balrog was sent flying towards him in a massive explosion of SIVA packing solar energy. “Gear Slot Two!” I felt my shield disappear as The Fallen Angel Sword appeared in my hand while the Demon Slayer turned into a crossbow. I felt God’s Arms shift a little but seemed to settle as the SIVA pulled along the bolt. “Terra Bane!” The increased strength of both of the improvement and boost of the other sword caused the bolt to launch out of the crossbow and fliker into three. I felt some joy as it hit the Balrog in both of its eyes, which now glowed not from heat, but Taken energy.

Until, that is, the Balrog looked to me in rage after ripping out the bolts. Before I could even... shout in a super manly fashion, Snuffles was on the big bastard. Grabbing the Balrog from behind and ramming him into the dirt. Snuffles roared and seemed completely different from earlier, now emphasizing every syllable with a blow to the Balrogs body or head. “NO HURT FRIEND! FRIEND IS FRIEND! NO LOSE MORE FRIEND!” That needed looking into and not by me.

“Chronos protect the big guy! Iron Wall 3!” Sheets of metal appeared before all three of us before fading into us. Iron Wall was Chronos’s special ability, it lowered all physical damage you took. The Demon floated over and hovered around Snuffles.

Snuffles, however, was busy breaking the Balrogs horns off. No really, he ripped them off of the bastards head, before breaking its wings by jabbing the horns into them. He then looked to me and took a shaky breath. “Is weak enough now!? No want look at meany!”

I turned my full attention to the broken mass before me. I saw it start thrashing when it looked at me, or more specifically my eye. Blue chains started forming around it pulling it together. The thrashing became more wild as more of it was being pulled in by the chains. “Can someone hold it down for me!?” I yelled while sweat beads started falling down my face. This thing was way stronger then NM.

Snuffles nodded and pounded it three times on the head with both fists, knocking it out cold. The chains were quick to finish their job now as it was fully pulled into the ball of blue chains. Then they lashed out and buried themselves into Snuffles chest as if anchoring themselves. “That was not supposed to happen!” I yelled hoping not to piss of the SIVA king beside me. The chains proceeded to slowly push into Snuffles as his skin parted before them like water. Once the last of it was inside I felt the mark the Huntsman left turn off. I hadn’t even realized that it was going until now, but it did explain a lot.

Snuffles looked to Simon and frowned. “Snuffles sorry, poppa, got too mad again.”

Simon smiled and walked over to Snuffles as the dome lowered “Hey, no worries, bud. You are just a pup, after all, you did me proud though! You took out a freaking Balrog like he was some two bit punk! That deserves some extra jewels back home!” At this, Snuffles cheered happily.

“Yeah hate to break this up…” I said walking up, “But Snuffles do you feel alright? Is the soul causing you any trouble?” Don’t want anything going wrong at this point.

Snuffles shook his head “No hurty, just feeling lots stronger. Feel like can fight better, and… feel like this not only me now.” Snuffles closed his eyes, before long he was a few shades darker in color and had fire coming out of his mouth and nose, with bright white chain marks showing under the skin of his body, mimicking the leylines of his body. He then closed his eyes again, and reverted back, smiling happily. “Now have two me!”

“Okay, glad your doing good big guy.” I patted the side of his arm, the highest I could reach on him. “Just let Simon know if things start to go wrong.” I then turned to Simon, “So what now? Go and throw a party for saving the Kingdom. Which I’m sure is just another Thursday for you two.”

“Did someone say PARTY?!” A voice screamed next to me. I found myself clinging to Snuffles’s arm before realizing who had yelled at me.

Snuffles tilted his head curiously. “Why pink lady yell? It scare friend.” LIES! I wasn’t scared just startled… a lot. I slowly let go of Snuffles arm while dusting myself off. I saw Simon shaking with repressed laughter.

“Oh I’m sorry, and I screamed because Parties are important. Have you ever been to a Party?” Pinkie asked looking up at him with a head tilt. Why could I tell she capitalized the ‘p’s?

Snuffles nodded. “Had party last week before coming this world. Beat mean lady who hurt us, throw party celebrate!”

“And you just beat a meanie thingie!” Pinkie said pointing at Snuffles. “So what do you do after beating meanies? You party!”

“With logic like that, who could beat that?” I asked while looking at Simon. “So how bout it Hero King? Care to join us for what should be an awesome party?”

Simon grinned. “Sure thing. Just let me make a cave for Snuffles to sleep in, don’t want him having to sleep in the town.”

Snuffles nodded sheepishly. “Might squish, roll in sleep.”

“Aww… Do you need a massage too?” A quiet voice asked while patting Snuffles. So Flutter was a Pegasis. “How about some food? Can’t sleep on an empty stomach.”

Snuffles smiled at Fluttershy “Me eat rocks and metal, sometimes jewels if good! Like the blue ones… and am-ee-thist.”

Simon smiled at Fluttershy, “I got his food settled, I can make him a cave pretty easy, and I’ll even be able to seal it after, so no worries there. Snuffles, when do you want me to make the cave, about an hour?”

Snuffles nodded “Yes, poppa, want go to party!”

“Hmm… A party with a hour intermission,” Pinkie said while taking a thinker pose using one of Snuffles foot as a stool. “I can work with that, yeah I can work with that.”

“As nice as this all is. Who are you guys?” A voice butted in as a very familiar wizard said. Dang it memory why do you fail me now!? Twimight? Snarkle? Twiblight? Smatlight? Of course I could remember the others name. But her? Swoosh, gone.

“Yeah,” Rainbow archer said while rushing up to Snuffles. “As awesome as you are we still need to protect this place!” Wow a complement and threat.

“RAINBOW!” Flutters yelled appearing in front of her. “He is a giant teddy bear! Aren’t you?” She turned and started petting him like a dog.

Snuffles turned his head to Fluttershy curiously “What is teddy bear? Is nice? Snuffles nice until try hurt friend.”

“Well you guys have met the giant so how about you two?” Wow, she seemed tired. The shield must have taken a lot out of the purple wizard.

Simon frowned warily. “I’m Simon, I’m from another realm, and the current king of my people. Now, would someone please tell your polychromatic friend to stop giving Snuffles the stink eye? It’s really starting to annoy me. Snuffles is basically my son, so I don’t exactly like people being unkind to him.”

This seemed to get different reactions from the group. Purple people eater waved her hand for Rainbow to stand down while Rainbow hovered down to behind her. Pinkie had already left, talking a mile a minute about some thing to do with streamers. Fluttershy was talking a mile a minute asking questions from how he was born to if he born from an egg.

Well looks like it’s up to me to get things back on track. “You know I’m not sure if I should be hurt that you don’t remember me.” I gave a smile while walking a bit forward relaxed. “How’s it going?”

Twilight turned toward me as if seeing me for the first time. Her eyes widened while her hand raised while pointing a finger at me. “Yeah I know. Where’s Ed? I sent him home after we beat the ‘master’. So no need to worry, I got out.” I saw Rainbow stop flying and fall to the ground as she took on the same shocked expression.

“As much fun as it would be to get an explanation, I feel the need to offer our own thanks.” A harpy dressed in heavy armor said. They had whiteish wings with a few dark spots, like that of an owl, while the armor he wore was pure silver but showed wear and tear with knicks and scratches showing on its surface. “So shall we proceed inside.” Their voice was like gravel on cement with a deep tone in it. “I have quite a few questions to ask you three.”

Well been here for… ten minutes and I haven’t put my foot in my mouth! Wonder how long I can keep this up! “To the bir-” I was quick to bite my tongue. You were not ruining this now mouth. I saw a couple heads turn my way as I quickly started whistling. “What? I was just thinking of a song and forgot the lyrics.” Play it cool Oz, play it cool…

Simon looked to Fluttershy and smiled tensely “I would not know how Graugs are born, I found him near death in the badlands, healed him up with my SIVA, and we’ve been inseparable ever since.”

Snuffles nodded. “Almost go to forever sleep like momma cause hunters hurt for skin and bone.”

“Oh you poor baby!” Fluttershy cooed while trying to hug him. “Did you capture those mean bad hunters?” She asked while looking at Simon.

Simon nodded “The magi responsible are still being hunted to this day. I will not see the hunting of Graugs turn any profit for those disgusting wretches. Someone who would harm a cub is no longer welcome by my people. We are working with the magi to enforce our laws on poaching.”

“Oh so your from another dimension too?” Twilight asked while Fluttershy had pulled a blanket out of somewhere and was trying to put it on Snuffles.

As Snuffles played with the blanket, and laughed with Fluttershy and the ‘fun game’ Simon nodded. “I honestly doubt you would like my dimension, your people, the Magi, are quite cruel to mine, the Kin.”

“Um… guys are we just going to ignore the birdies?” I asked while pointing at the annoyed general. Wait, what did I just say?

Simon facepalmed and walked over to me before smacking me upside the head. “I said not to call them that, and I was about to direct us toward the kind general who was offering his hospitality.” He then turned to the annoyed harpie general. “I for one, if your offer still stands after my friends blunder, would be delighted to enjoy your hospitality.” Well if he didn’t accept I could always get on my hands and knees to ask for forgiveness.

“Yes the offer still stands,” The man said while gesturing for us to follow him. “Come I’m sure that pink menace has already made a party… This would have been her twentieth offence…” Dude sounded resigned to his fate.

Simon smiled wryly. “How about this? You and your people remove the party ban, and I get you your lost Idol? I can do things most individuals can’t, so… Offers open.”

“Wait what Idol?” I hate being confused, or lost. “Hey where is your ruler anyway?” You think the king would have been here by now.

Simon frowned. “If this dimension is like my own, they have no king, mostly just generals who head the village, like a mayor. The last king lost their sacred Idol of Boreas, which was their unifying force.” Wow I was learning so much today. 

“Alright I’ll get the whip you grab the hat, and Snuffles provides the wit, we’ll have this thing back by sundown!” I yelled while pointing at the sky.

Simon smirked. “Where are we going then, mister confident?”

“I have no idea!” I said giving my best smile. “But it must be somewhere in Griffinstone!” Behold my deductionary skills. BEHOLD I SAY!

Simon sighes and smacks my head again, this time knocking me face first into a lady Griffons bosom by accident. I would rate them a 6 out of 10 on the comfy scale. Could be the brain damage though.

Simon breaks out laughing. “Good luck with Gilda, man!” TRAITOR! Skills I don’t have don’t fail me now.

“Um… Lovely weather isn’t it?” Nailed it! “So… want to help find an Idol?” Please don’t kill me I have yet to smash my computer and destroy all the porn it contains! Or I could just delete the search history, that TOO!

“You want to make me your idol?” She asked while swaying from side to side. You know I think might be drunk. Lucky me…? “Okay weird monkey thing, you may worship me.” She started to go for her shirt.

“OH GOD SIMON! SAVE ME!” I yelled while grabbing her arms from doing what I think they were doing.

Simon then simply uses his SIVA to dissolve her top. From across the party. Damn he has skills. Not the skills I was hoping for though. But still, many points to him.As I thought this, he dissolved my shirt as well, and made them fall on the ground next to him. All points GONE! Well only one option left. Simon then wolf whistled, and shouted “Kiss, Kiss, KKKIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSS!”

“RETURN DOOR!” A gateway of glowing energy popped up behind me. I was quick to jump in it. I popped up next to Simon only to have my glare interrupted by a sudden weight on my back.

“Where you going?” Her breath reeked of booze and maybe… bread? 

“I blame you.” I said while glaring at Simon.

Simon whispered to Gilda. “He’s playing hard to get, guys really shy, just kiss his worries away.” Okay time for option two.

“Snuffles help me!” I yelled looking for my new savior, hopefully. Ah! She’s trying to kiss me! And she’s failing horribly!

Snuffles was too busy, it seems, playing charades with the girls. He had a huge moustache and clothes that screamed peewee herman.

Simon then clocked Gilda in the head smirking. “You owe me a life debt now,” At my confused stare he happily enlightened me, “Harpies mate for life.” Wow, I just dodged a million bullets. 

“Your still a virgin.” Terra informed me. Thanks for reminding me asshole.

Simon then chuckles “I’ll be back in a few minutes.” He left while I pushed the Harpie off me. I grabbed my shirt, god was I wore this ugly thing under my sweater!, and put it back on. Awkwardly I started putting Gilda’s shirt on while trying to not get sued for sexial harresment.

“What… the… hell?” Rainbow asked while I turned around.

“There is a very good, maybe, reason for this, maybe.” I said while finishing lowering the shirt. “Unless you're jealous, then yes it is.” 

She tackled me to the ground. “What are you doing to my ex-friend!” I tried to get up or push her up.

“Hey I’m back… You work fast.” Simon said holding a golden statue, hey that might be the Idol of Boring. 

“If it makes me look better then… yes.” I said laying down to accept whatever fate I disserved. Rainbow’s face turned bright red while I saw Simon give Gilda the idol. I saw a fist head my way as my world descended into darkness.
> Chapter 14
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I woke up in a nice hospital. And by nice, I mean it was pretty worn down. Now that I thought about most of this city looked pretty beat up. This place really needed some missionary help. I suppose the Balrog might have not helped. As I turned over, I saw that I now had a nice shiner around my eye from where Rainbow probably hit me. Huh, even the mirror had cracks in it, and was dirty… kinda wish I had some Windex. But on to more pressing matters, like planning my revenge on Rainbow, Gilda, Simon, and Snuffles, in that order. Maybe not Snuffles, he was to pure. But first I still, maybe, needed vengeance on Lightning Dust. I was very up in the air about what to do about her. I’m sure something will come to me.

I felt a Heal work its way through me as the black eye slowly faded away. “Hey Terra did anything happen while I was out?” I asked the Demon who lived inside me and refused to pay rent.

“How should I know? I see what your eyes see, granted my enhanced senses allow me to see better, so when you close them, I can’t see.” The demonic general answered back.

“Well your no help.” I shot back mentally trying to shove our connection away. It wasn’t needed since Terra gave an annoyed grunt before I felt him leave. “Time to find the others.” Leaving the, hospital(?), he started searching for his, friends? While he neared the exit, he went through his mental faculties and found something shocking. He had a second demon slot open. Now the question was what to put in it?

Tracing his fingers over different keys his mind felt smooth almost velvet key. A new key that he had obtained yesterday. Pulling on it he slowly slid it into the slot but it felt weird. Usually when the key went into the slot, he would see it like a doll sitting on a shelf with chains wrapped around both it and him. But now he felt like he was handed a character sheet and a new energy flowed from him.

“My we have forgotten how boring the harpy’s home can be.” An articulate voice said beside him. “We know not how this has come to be but it shall be a good place for us to start.” Turning I saw someone around my size with light purple hair that fell down and looked well groomed. She had a pitch-black foci crystal with the band hidden behind her hair. She wore light armor of manly light to dark blue that covers the upper part of her body with the lower only having shorts and armored leggings. The bottom of her feet had high heels, so that meant she was actually shorter than him.

“Nightmare Moon?” I asked while feeling the status sheet and wow this will be interesting.

“Indeed, it is Us,” Turning they saw me standing and stepped back acting like I was some coiled snake. This caused the mechanical wings behind her to spring out like a bird trying to make itself look bigger. “What thou should have been dust when we are remade!”

“Oh, guess you don’t remember me sealing you away?” I asked casually still trying to figure out what happened. “Well you were a threat so instead of killing you I decided that the better solution would be to seal you away, and well to make a long story short. I met a god and with their help turn you into a key. It happens,” I finished with a shrug.

“So, what does that mean for me?” Night, you know now that I looked at her ‘sheet’, she didn’t have a really have a name. Huh, should fix that, right now. Okay name time, name time, name… time… Damnit brain why do you fail me now! Sure, coming up with snarks, no problem, time to name something? Nope, got nothing.

“Well, first we need to think of a good name for you.” I said while rubbing my chin. I saw her step back with a shock faced.

“Wha-what did thou say?” She said while staring at me. “We have a name if thou have not forgotten!”

“No, you called yourself Luna, who you are not. Then again you were also called Nightmare Moon and I’m not calling you that cause that is too much of a mouthful.” I said waving her off while still trying to figure out what to call the girl in front of me.

Simon then took that exact moment to check up on me. He saw Nightmare Moon, and right as I prepared for the worst, he waved at her all friendly like! “Why hello there, what do you call yourself? I don’t feel like referring to you as that certain slur, or as your host.”

“Wait that is a slur? That explains so much!” I yelled trying to get my mind in gear.

“We have told thee we are the true maiden of the moon, Luna! Not that weak puppet who took our name!” The now enraged women yelled.

Simon frowned sadly. “Actually, you two are likely two parts of the same whole. From my...special senses, a certain chunk of your being is missing. Now, either we could try to fuse you two together again, or, we could try to regrow your two individual halves into independent beings.”

“We would prefer to just kill her and be done with all this.” NM said with a pout. “We do not want anything more to do with that… thing that would reject who we were.”

Simon grinned “Well, Stella, if you’ll have that name, I doubt murder would be okay. You must remember, that it is more useful to make allies than enemies.”

“Stella, guess that works,” I said pushing it toward the character sheet in my mind.

“Would you make an ally with someone who denied everything that you stood for? Who took your name and defiled it? Who backed down on everything we stood for? Would you forgive and make allies with them, KING?” She spat at him like she was personally insulted by his question.

Simon placed a hand on her temple in one quick motion, as we both saw...horrible, horrible things, the screams of children being harvested like cattle, of men being beaten for trying to feed their families, of mass clan genocide on horrifying scales, I think I need to hurl. “I have seen these memories from a firsthand perspective, through my people, who I swore to protect with every fiber of my being. Before I was a king? I was a doctor...and my world was sick, so very, very sick. I am still trying to undo these horrors, to cure the ailment, and that is why I MUST be a king. Because while no nation will listen to a single man, they will definitely listen to another nation.”

That was… Well only one thing to say. “Thank you for sharing that. I now need to use the can over there for a few seconds.” I said while walking over to a nice can and proceeded to empty my stomach into it while giving the nice man the bird.

“How, how could you live with those… memories, how can you… forgive.” Stella asked as she fell to her knees while looking up at him.

Simon smiled and helped her up gently. “Because everyone has darkness in them, and as a leader, it has become my job to make the world a safe place for my people, and their children. The only way to ensure that, is to ensure peace, no more hate, no more anger, just… forgiveness... on both sides.”

“Keep going like that and you’ll make King Arthur look inadequate.” I mumbled while getting up. “So now on to how weak we both are. She got downgraded to level one.” I said pointing at Stella who looked like she was trying to reevaluate her whole life using cliff notes.

Simon nodded and took out his bow, creating a much less menacing looking one and handing it to Stella. “Here, we are going to train, the three of us, Snuffles is already there, we are heading to Comraich.” Simon then grins and walks out of the hospital, before running into a stressed-out Gilda. She has rainbow hairs in her feathers… oh my~. All the implications~.

“What the hell did you two do!?” She ground out through clenched teeth.

“Me, I did nothing, all on him!” I said before sliding behind my new meat shield.

Simon smiled warmly to Gilda. “I gave the leadership to the most qualified person. You are the one who looked past your own ego to reach out to Rainbow again, even after you, incorrectly mind you, assumed she replaced you. You looked past your greed, and didn’t try to sell the idol for its worth, knowing its importance was greater than your own gain.” He placed a hand on her shoulder. “You are the best leader for the Harpy people. Not because you lack flaws, but because you rise above them.”


“If it helps any, I think you will make a great, beautiful, and kind leader.” I said from behind Simon while giving her a great thumbs up. “Besides you have the support of the element of… which element was Rainbow again?” I should really write these things down somewhere.

Simon chuckled “Loyalty, she is way different from the RD in my world, at least at first meetings, although… in her defense, she was under the sway of a prideful, conceited bigot of a god.”

“Yes, we know where our sisters’ weaknesses lie. You need not remind us.” Stella said having found the will to walk again. “Now Sir Simon if you would be so kind as to continue on the way.” Wow her ego was huge if she talked to Simon that way, you know like someone talking to a dog you wanted to keep walking but it stopped to smell the garbage on the side of the road.

Simon chuckled “Mind your tongue dear, lest your other teachers try to teach you respect. I will not be your only teacher.”

“Can Snuffles be one of the teachers?” Please say yes, please say yes!

Simon grinned “No.” Damn it!

He then opened a portal to our left and walked us through, him smiling as he saw a HUGE troll and his...family? Walking towards us. Well when in Rome, or new Equestria. “Top of the morning!” I said wishing I had brought a top hat, “how are you doing this most wonderful day. Interdimensional travel really takes it out of one and I wish to hear some good news.” Man, my British accent sucked, need to work on it more.

The huge troll looked to his wife, who nodded and covered his sons’ ears, before looking to Simon and pointing to me “Who this jackass?”

“Names Oz, and thank you for the compliment.” I said with fake cheer.

The troll man looked to me and tilted his head. “Why not talk like used to? Az-Barko could tell accent fake. Really crappy.”

Simon snorted in laughter as I soldiered on. “Thank you for the review I shall work on making it better for the next time we meet.”

Az-Barko, as I assume, he was named, patted my shoulder. “Wise ass bad idea if right guessing you here to train. Grimgor tough teacher. So is Simon.” Wonder if I’m right about the name? I mean Simon did mention someone who acted like him.

Simon smirked “Your right, Azzy, we’re going to put these two through the ringer, when we are done with them, they’ll be able to knock out Snuffles in a fight!”

Snuffles, who turned out to be relaxing in a nearby lava pit, must be toasty in there, climbed out and absorbed the leftover heat, letting the lava harden into obsidian armor. “Now why would I knock out that guy, I like him. Plus, I love living too.”

Simon smiled to Stella “First of all, recruit, is proper gear, Oz is getting gear after we get you outfitted, because at your current power level, a Ghul pup could kill you.”

“At level one I think a bad look from them could knock her out. You do remember at level one people usually fight ROUS right.” At seeing the blank stares, I let out a sigh. “Princess Bride. It stands for Rodents Of Unusual Size.”

Simon shook his head “Nah, the big rodents here? They eat Ghuls. Anyway, a Ghul pup would be a threat to you now, but when we are done, you will be able to beat a Dragon Lord into submission.”

“Alright what are we waiting for hit that Mulan soundtrack and ‘Let’s Get Down To Business~.’” I tried signing.

Az-Barko sighed and smacked me in the back of the head, sending me face first into what I hope was just fragrant mud. Really, really hope. Thank god my mouth was closed, but my nose, too full.

Simon leaned down. “That, was Caragor crap. Now get to a shower so you don’t disturb the other two recruits!” Thank you for confirming it.

“Thank you for the advice. Now if you could get me a map I shall be on my way.” I stood up trying to save whatever pride I had. Who was I kidding that went and threw itself into a bonfire.

Simon simply turned me in a circle, my back was to a huge, highly detailed, yet easy to read map. “And your assuming I will remember that. Hate to say it but half the time I can’t remember anyone's name.” Like that Lightning Bliss chick, or was it Lightning Dust? See what I mean!

Simon simply places my hand on the building on the map, and I was promptly at what sounded like the showers. Ahh, man! I missed a chance do say ‘Beam me up Scotty’. Oh, well shower time. I looked at the building for minutes staring at the two doors, the two unmarked doors… Well fifty chance. I opened the door and slowly made my way inside. “Hello anyone in here, part of facility cleaning.” What I’m shy and don’t like changing in front of others.

“Ohh, is someone there?” A quiet voice asked as I was greeted to a site many men would die to see. Fluttershy totally naked, and man what a rack. I felt some blood make its way up my head and exit out my nose. Looking up I saw her eyes widen before her pupils shrunk down to pin pricks. “AHHH!”

“Fluttershy what happened!” Rainbow yelled charging out of what I assume was the changing room.

“I think she realized the inevitability of death.” I tried, “So if you can excuse me, I’m just going to go clean the other bathroom now.” I slowly made my way to the exit.

Rainbow was following me with a calm air about her, the scary kind of calm. “You really think that’s going to fly, perv?”

Damn my pop culture references. “I am no mere pervert I am the legendary SUPER PERVERT OZ!” I said while going through the motions of the dance that goes with it. I think I did good. I saw Rainbow’s eye start twitching as she pulled her bow out of her pile of clothes, oh hey she was just in underwear. She drew back her bow as I threw my hand forward as my shield formed on my arm. The arrow hit my shield pushing me back and threw the wall. I felt a couple bruises form on my back but a quick Heal did away with any damage I had taken. Turning I saw a family stop and take in what happened. Well better explain myself.

“Kid make sure to stay in school or you two will have to clean up shit.” I pulled myself out of the wall and look forward. “Hey crazy arrow chick, you done? I have work to do.” Please buy it.

“Oh, hell no!” She yelled as I saw her draw her bow back to notch another arrow. I need to get close to… no wait I don’t have that restriction anymore. I was quick to dodge out the way of another shot that freeze the building behind me.

“Now, now, no need to be cold.” Feeling my sword change into the desired shape I launched the bolt that was already in it. As it flew, I Concentrated while trying to consider what to do next. If this RD was anything like mine than she could pelt me with Elemental Arrows while all I had to attack with was Terra, Mars, and Bolt. So straight up, she would win, not to even mention she had three-dimensional movement while all I could do was go up and down the road.

“Nice try but I will win.” And just like that she was in the air just like I knew she would. “There is no escaping me.” Huh, that was a thought. I slipped my hand into my pocket to get ready for my next move.

Simon then intervened, the both of us getting wrapped up in SIVA bindings. “Would someone, please... care to tell me... WHY YOU ARE WRECKING MY PEOPLES CAPITAL?!”

Wow he seemed mad. “Well you see I went to go clean but was then attacked by the streak.” Whelp, I’m going to die.

Simon frowned “That’s a load of shit. What you were actually doing, was disrupting the ladies shower, most likely. Let me guess, heard someone showering and thought you’d get a peek? NO DICE! I have a LOT of patience, but that, is NOT okay. Especially since as a result you two put citizens at risk, I was going to go easy on your training before this, but now? Prepare to be put through the fucking ringer!”

“Well… Yeah I got nothing, I should have thought before needling… god I forgot your name, have we met yet, in this world I mean? Anyway, to correct a mistake I walked in on accident, I was not looking which one I was going into. I blame my eyes watering because of the smell.” What a true man owns up to mistakes.

RD frowned. “Okay, granted you do reek, but you are in hot water with me until you apologize to Shy. As for now, I’ll pay to repair the damages from my savings… But you owe me. And I’ll show you the right showers for ya.”

“Oh, thank god you’re paying, I’m so broke ducks throw bread at me. So, Simon you going to leave us hanging.” I put on my best smile while looking at him.

Simon smiled warmly. “RD is free, because I’d react the same way if someone peeked on Chryssi, but you? You will hang there and ferment for three hours.”

“You know this is the second time this happened to me?” I asked while still hanging there. “... So, do I get any company. I mean beside the voice in my head?”

Simon smiled “Okay, I’ll leave you with… RD, armed with a hose.”

RD smiled “Thanks boss, what’s my punishment though?”

He still smiled “Mandatory confession to Shy. And you two have to go on a double date with me and Chryssi.”

“Oh, that sounds lovely, make sure to take pictures to show your kids.” I said trying to get one of my arms free. “Need them embarrassing stories.”

Simon stared at me. “I… doubt you know how much shit you just stepped in with that statement.”

“About as much as I fell into.” I answered honestly.

He shook his head. “More. Now rumors will spread…”

RD frowned curiously “Of what?”

Simon gestured to the two Uruk women off to the side, gossiping like nothing happened. “That Chryssi is expecting.”

“So, she isn’t?” I asked slowly getting one hand out, only for the SIVA to become a full body restraint tying me to the top of the wall.

Simon simply said a few words that rocked me to my core. “She is, and you just endangered my daughter.”

“Huh,” great now I felt like an ass. “...Sorry…” Man I sounded pathetic, probably looked it too. “So, are you going to punish your people by leaving a smelly man hanging here?” Good break the ice.

Simon sighed “You have a point, let’s see… Oh, Snuffles!” No.

The familiar big lug came lumbering up to us, “Yes poppa?” No, no, no.

Simon grinned “Dunk him in the lake a few times. Feel free to play with him too.” What god did I anger?! It was the Huntsman, wasn’t it!?

Snuffles nodded and grabbed me, running at high speed to the nearest lake, which had several Uruk women who actually didn’t look half bad. I had all of five seconds to stare before Snuffles punched a hole in the top layer of ice and dunked me the first time. Dear god it was cold. Thank god I had, have, the Vial of Breath. I can’t imagine trying to keep my eyes open without it. Unfortunately, as I took a breath a goddamn fish went in my mouth! Feeling the big guy pull me out I spat out the fish. “I have brought you the treasure of the sea now please release me oh Great Snuffles!”

Snuffles ate the fish like a junky would pop a pill, then sniffed me. “Still smell like poopie, dunk two more times. Then play! We play fun things!” Oh god it still is freezing, no wait... HOW IS IT MORE COLD NOW!?
> Chapter 15
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“You look like shit.” Stella stated as I flopped down in front of her. Why must she pun now!

“Hey Snuffles you want to play with the nice lady next?” I asked my face still buried in the ground.

Snuffles looked to Stella hopefully. “Play games? Maybe checkers? Snuffles like checkers! And tic tac!” This week had been hell. When Simon said he was going to put me through the ringer I thought he was just exaggerating not that his version of the ringer was made out of demonic SIVA HELL-SPIKES THAT SPIT GREEN FIRE! I mean it didn’t help that my mouth took every chance to snark... but hey I could feel myself becoming stronger along with more skills and Demons open up. Even got some chances to try out my Alchemy skills, need them up to snuff when I see Ed again. I really should thank him next chance I got for the magic canceling shield, it is so helpful especially when combined with the magic eating sword.

Simon smiled “And that’s what you get for saying my wife has a huge ass. I don’t care how spankable it looks, you just don’t say that to a married woman, especially in front of her husband.”

“I only say what is true and you know it!” I muttered trying to eat a worm that dared come close to a hungry me.

Simon smirked, “Oh, only speak the truth, eh? Well, my turn. Truth is, I am going to be giving every recruit but your second helpings of the meals today. Your rations are, again, halved.”

I looked up to see him also dangle my item bag in front of me. Simon had taken it from me during the first day of training when I had pulled some jerky out of it. “Whelp hope they enjoy the extras, I’m just going to lay here a few extra minutes.”

“What about us Sir Simon, will we suffer with this man?” Stella asked.

Simon nodded, “You two, thanks to the Huntsman, are bound by fate. You need to support each other, make up for each other’s weaknesses and shortcomings. If one of you fail, both of you do, one of you succeed? Both of you succeed.”

“And in other news… Worms don’t taste as great unless cooked.” I said sitting up. “So… anything else going on, I mean besides running a slowly expanding nation?” Already I felt plans form in my head of what to do about the food shortage.

Simon grinned “We are going to finally teach you how to use your special gear, Oz, you got to be the jack of all trades, the middle ground between any other party members that join your group in the future. Stella? You have to make sure that there are no hidden threats, no opportunities missed, you are the groups eye in the dark, am I clear?”

“About as clear as you have always been.” I pointed out, hey I’m not going to complain about having a wise mentor figure who doesn't speak in riddles.

Simon nodded, pleased, “Good, now, Oz, over the last week, I have been imbuing your mind with different basic battle styles for each weapon archetype. Be it an axe, hammer, gauntlet or spear, you will be able to bring the hurt, same with your shield. I also heavily sedated the demon inside you, so he will be so high that he can’t get any of this knowledge. He’s stoned silly.” Well that explains why Terra has been so happy lately.

“So, let me guess this is the part where you drag us to the arena to have us fight another one of your commanders and bet on how long we last against them?” I think the longest we did was one and a half minutes against Azzy and his wife. And that was because for half the time I was dodging. I have gotten very good at that.

Simon nodded, “Yes, almost. You two will be facing me.”

“Can I surrender now or at the arena?” What it is a legitimate question.

Simon responded angrily, “No, never surrender, that is to give up your reason for fighting, and to insult anyone with you. You NEVER surrender. Retreat, yes, but only when tactics mandate it. Never let fear rule you.”

“Fine, fine, I guess we’ll give it our best shot. Come on Stella, let's show him what we got.” I made my way to my feet while dusting myself off as best I could.

“Very well if we must face Sir Simon, we shall do it together, while enjoying your use as our human shield.” Wow, she is getting better. Last week I was her annoying meat puppet. Simon does good work.

Simon nodded, “Let’s get the commanders as well, they wanted to see this.” Yes, let my humiliation be known to all. Well at least I can’t die.

“Well at least it won’t be another husband and wife team.” I said before feeling a dark presence behind me. “I made an oopsie didn’t I?”

Simon smiled, “You know, I actually hold back around my wife. Don’t like scaring her. She’s out doing diplomacy with the Yaks and the dragons.”

Well crap, “Even though I walk through the Valley of Death I shall not fear.” I muttered to myself as I tried to venture forward.

Simon sent out odd looking drones made of SIVA, which I remembered were to lead the newer Commanders that had yet to receive their SIVA gear to the Arena. He smiled, “Seems they’ll be there before us. Let’s go.”





At the Arena





As I entered the Arena, I felt so glad that I had unlocked the third Demon Slot as I equip both Hermes and Chronos to the two empty slots getting ready for the battle ahead.

Discord was there, acting as the referee for this match. “Ladies and gentleman, as the magical authority of Comraich, I am glad to say, that this will be a fight to remember! Simon, verses his two-star pupils! Let’s see how well Simon has brought out their potential! I for one, am one eager beaver!” He said that as his teeth became beaver like for a moment as he gnawed on a piece of wood, making it into a statue of himself and Twilight. “Ooh! A nice gift for my own star pupil!...once I sanitize it.”

“Don’t forget to varnish it, paint helps too!” I yelled to him.

Discord gave a thumbs up, “Good idea, good buddy! Can’t wait to teach you some magical theory next week!” Oh god he’s going to teach me, should I be happy or worry about what little remains of my sanity?! I’ll do both.

Simon cleared his throat and Discord facepalmed, “Oops, sorry, did it again, hard not to dote on her, she is such a good student!”

“They all say that. Then you find out that they are doing EXTRA CREDIT behind your back! Then they demand that you grade all the books they highlighted! It is a very slippery slope.” I said with a nod.

Simon then sighed “Change of plans, Discord versus Oz.”

“Wait what about Stella?!”

Discord grew very quiet as Simon ushered Stella into the stands. “You… You dare imply that I would not only dirty Twilights learning with underhanded tactics for sex… but that I would care so little for my student as to take advantage of her like that?!”

“...Wait when did I imply that? I just meant that she is a bit of an …overachiever. Though if you are going to date her make sure to make plushies to sell. I’m sure they will do quite well.” Seriously this man needs to get his mind out of the gutter.

Discords eyes suddenly blazed “I would never cheapen her like that! She is like a daughter to me! A-And plushies? You’re sick! I’m going to enjoy this!”

“I get shipping is a bit of a weird thing to do but really?” I asked while getting ready for what might come next.

“And making it global? YOU ARE DEAD MEAT!” Well that summarizes this situation too perfectly.

“Wait... one last joke please?” I asked raising my hand. “What has the worst plot ever?... Twilight,” I waited for his response and only got an eye twitch. “That’s the butt of the joke.”





The next few sentences have been expunged by Pinkie Pie and Discord for being too gruesome for even the most mature of audiences. Simon had to convince to revert Oz back from something resembling a Picasso painting.





Well that was… interesting... and painful, so very...very painful, yet at the same time so worth it.

Simon sighed “The magic lessons were supposed to be like a vacation, now they’ll be hell for you…”

“What’s the difference?” I asked while feeling Stella approach. “Hope you don’t mind that I stole the limelight.”

“Is thou asking us if we are sorry not to have partaken in the massacre?” Stella asked while poking at me with her glade. “Then the answer is no we are not.” She wore her new favorite bow on her back.

There was then a loud, earth shattering bang as a massive hole in the sky opened up, some weird looking airships coming out of them. Simon cussed loudly and looked to us, “Everybody, get ready! Battle stations!”

Az-Barko nodded and barked an order to his troops, the only regiment of Ologs Simon has made so far, and ordered them to man the outer walls and… something called the Archfiends?

“What is going on?! Who’s attacking?” I asked getting to my feet. I saw Stella mimicking an owl trying to find the enemy.

Simon’s voice was grim. “The first, of many invaders. The Eliksni, the fallen. They were originally beings of good, but they fell from grace, and judging from their ships that are coming in, they are ready for a fight.”

“Well good sir Simon it seems they weren’t the only ones prepared.” Stella said as she saw what I assumed were Archfiends being carried up and bolted down to the towers and battlements alongside the turrets, which were reactivated.

Simon nodded. “Roxy is still recovering, and Chryssi is pregnant with my daughter, I refuse to let them take part in this. With two of our heavy hitters out of the fight, I hope this show of force makes them think twice about us, I mean, an endless ballista armed with SIVA made Javelins the size of Ballista bolts? I wouldn’t want to fight it, and I beat down Celestia.”

“So, should I run for cover?” I asked while looking at the ships. “Or should I just get some ear plugs?”

Simon smirked “Get some earmuffs from Grimgor if you need them, but I need you and Stella to make sure every one of the civilians get to the bunker, it’s under the capitol building,” We shared a confused look at him. “er… the castle. Damn it, I hate saying I live in a castle!”

“Hermes!” I yelled as a portal opened behind me. From it appeared a man with long green hair and wearing a bright yellow hunter vest with a tan sweater underneath. “You heard Simon start getting everyone where we need them!”

“Consider it done,” The Demon of Winds said before taking off with a slight trail of wind behind him.

Snuffles was already at the gate, laying down large boulders for the weird siege weapon just by the gate, it looked like some weird air cannon, but with a bunch of odd parts, it honestly made my head hurt thinking of how thought out Simons defenses were. I mean, even Snuffles has a means of ranged attack! I could faintly hear Snuffles talking to himself. “If they mean... they go boom!”

“So… we just wait here for them or do you have a Mecha for me? No wait you probably gave that to Chryssy as a birthday present, didn’t you?” I asked trying to break the ice and get my mind off the HUGE GUN Snuffles has. Snuffles is great and all but that gun looks like it could wreck me in two seconds flat.

Simon simply pulls out a weird microphone connected to a stranger box, which I was later told was a broadcaster to their ship’s speakers, basically telling the whole ship what he was saying, and in their own language too. “Greetings Eliksni, we mean you no harm, only if you attack us will we fight back. I will warn you though, we are FAR more deadly than any guardian of the light. I, am the lord of Dawn, I walk both in light and darkness, and I WILL defend my people. If you dare try to wage war against us, you will be wiped from this and every world I visit.”

“Well that was a good warning, hopefully they accept it, turn around, leave, and never come back. Am I right?” I asked only to get hit upside the head by Stella.

“No, you fool they have traveled this far we doubt a simple warning will suffice.” Hello negative Nancy how are you today?

Simon then looked to Grimgor and Orvok, who had set up their own means of defense, turning the local Caragors into war hounds, and making a pack of lesser stygian graugs with armor. They all considered Snuffles their alpha male, even though he was just a pup, because he simply dwarfed them all. Grimgor gave Snuffles his own, much more threatening armor, and smiled “I look forward to them picking a fight, I really do.”

And just like that, an entire armada of Fallen ships appeared from midair, dropping spider like tanks and began to advance, with a small army of Eliksni soldiers, even a few weird floating robot eyes. Simon smirked even wider. “They made their choice. Let’s have some fun, eh boys?”

“Uh, ladies first?” I ask Stella, “You see I think Discord forgot to put my lungs in the right place so I might need a minute to catch up and Hermes is still gone so…”

“Get in there!” Stella yelled pushing me forward so I arrived at the front line.

“No need to be pushy. Simon what is the plan, I mean besides kick their assess?”

Simon smiled sadly. “The plan for me and my people? Survive. For you two? Leave the second it looks like you might die, because I won’t be able to finish your training. Even if we manage this battle unscathed, this marks the beginning of a new war for the Kin.”

Upon looking to where Discord was, I saw that he was now sweating profusely, his body looking much older as he seemed to be fighting something. “Gotta… close it… can’t… let more through…”

“Looks like we have our objective Stella, we shall protect the Lord of Chaos!” I said pointing my sword towards him as a wave of Fallen start approaching the immobilized god.

RD and Flutters, as well as the rest of the Mane Six of this dimension, came up to us, Simon looking to them and frowning, before he could say anything, RD interrupted. “No, we are not going to hide in the bunker like cowards, we have friends here, way more than ever in Ponyville, and it’s thanks to you guys that we have that! We’re protecting the inner city, two of us for each quarter of the city!”

Simon paused, then grinned “Looks like my lessons are taking effect, eh? Well, good to know. At your leisure girls, I’ll be going to the enemies front lines, sew a little anarchy along their ranks.”

“Game plan is a go then!” I said before running at the lines of Fallen. “Slash!” Once again, I saw reality given the middle finger as my attack started hitting enemies around us. But this time it went farther than one row. Thanks to the improvement of Simon and The Huntsman the Demon Slayer changed into a long-range weapon and was able to reach the full length of Slash 3. It made me all kinds of happy!

As I fought on the ground, the Archfiends let fly at any ship that tried to get close, blowing them into shrapnel. Snuffles would then use his huge ass cannon to suck up waid falling shrapnel and lodge it inside a SIVA boulder within the gun barrel, before launching it at a spider tank.

Everywhere I looked, it was the same, Fallen coming down from the sky, and dying almost instantly. Simon, who looked like he was beyond pissed off, punched his hand through the lens of the robot eyes, which I later learned were servitors, and yanked out a handful of wires before he basically roared a deluge of SIVA into it, the Servitor getting eaten whole. “YOU SHALL DIE HERE, FALLEN SCUM, AS THY JUDGE AND JURY, I DEEM THEE GUILTY! THY PENALTY IS DEATH!”

“Ahh!” Damn that was scary so glad he was on my side. I felt my shield raise up as a blast meant for my head hit it. So glad Ed upgraded it.

“Fool! Don’t take your eyes off this fight!” Stella yelled at me before launching an arrow off at a group of Fallen. When the arrow hit it blasted the enemies in a nice, cozy coating of hellfire.

I looked ahead to find that Pinkie was armed with a set of SIVA throwing knives, that seemed to regenerate a knife each time one was thrown, the knives seeming to brainwash whoever they stabbed into thinking they were on our side, until they fell down dead and exploded, at least. The fact that instead of gore, it was confetti and streamers was… oddly enough it was even more unnerving.

Applejack, who was buddied up with Pinkie for the northeastern quarter, was adorned in identical gear to the AJ of my world, except hers was coated in SIVA, which seemed to magnify her holy powers, making it so that for every enemy she hurt, she would heal an ally. Basically, this made her an invaluable ally, as she shrugged off most blows and healed her friends with the holy aura, I found myself grabbed by a huge Servitors beam and teleported to the opposite quarter.

“Damn it.” I ground out only to barely raise my shield in time to block another hit. I lashed Demon Slayer out turning it into a whip mid swing. I saw more and more start swarming around me as I wanted to grit my teeth at this point in frustration. “What are you guys? That one annoying respawning enemy in games?!”

“Master I have returned!” Hermes said making his way through the mob. Feeling his chain, I could tell that it was almost used up but at this point he was more helpful out of his key. I would just have to keep watch for a bit. Though he did seem a bit ruffed up, then again, I wasn’t doing much better.

As Hermes and I kept on fighting Fallen, I was greeted by the sight of Rarity and Fluttershy, who were busy keeping their own horde in check, Fluttershy was using a large staff/spear thing similar to Orvoks, and Rarity used an elegant looking wand, both also made of SIVA, I looked to Rarities enemies to see she was literally turning them into gems as Fluttershy summoned animal spirits to shatter them, the spirits then using the crystal to form bodies and temporarily join the fray.

I saw one of the spider tanks turn towards me as my eyes shrank down to pin pricks at what I knew was coming next. “Hermes return to your key!” I managed to get out before experiencing the world like Team Rocket did as I was tossed across the battlefield. “Ow…” I said upon landing, “Now, where am I?” I asked while Heal took effect.

Turns out I was knocked straight to the north western quarter, as Twilight and RD were busy using their SIVA weapons to literally make the weather and ambient magic turn on the Eliksni, making massive golems powered by SIVA energy and huge tornadoes that crackled with fire and electricity that basically turned them into baked baddy alamode.

“Well that answers that question.” I said to myself getting to my feet. “Need to get back to Stella and Discord. Hey you two think you can give me a lift or you too busy?” Might as well ask even though I think I pissed them off.

Twilight smiled “Just know that if you peek on my marefriend, or talk about me like that to Discord again? I’ll teleport your manhood into the sun.”

I let out a strangled cough and nodded so hard I think I put bobble heads to shame. “Yes Twilight, sorry Twilight!” Man... is everyone on this world terrifying?

‘Or maybe they’re really nice and you just keep pissing them off!’ Terra yelled in my mind.

‘My dick is your dick! So, don’t make us lose my dick! I only have ONE, despite your weird fan art, thank you very much!’ My vision was overtaken by a wave of purple as I felt the spell take effect. ‘Hope we are close by, then again this is magic so who knows?’ Man, I suddenly felt bouncy for some reason. Oh, Twi must have healed me along with the free lift what a nice girl I should bake her cookies some time~! Still low on chains though so no Demons for a while.

Spike and an older, grizzled looking dragon were busy fighting in the last quarter, which had the most direct path to the Arena, and they each had what Simon called a Smoulder-Maul, a type of hammer that channeled the fire within the dragons of Simons dimension to devastating effect, these two mauls were also enhanced by SIVA, so that whenever they slammed down, the resulting blast of heat would release smaller, incendiary bombs into the area. Spike and the elder dragon were actually just finishing beating down a massive Servitor and spider tank tag-team, they looked to me and broke out laughing. “Dude, what the hell happened to you?”

“Hmm, whatever do you mean?” I asked trying to rub the back of my head only to flinch back. “When did I get a bald spot?” I looked around to try and find a mirror only to succeed at discovering how vindictive certain unicorns can be. “Gravity Falls was right, Unicorns are not pure of heart, they are full of vengeance.” There was no other way to explain what I was wearing any other way. My once black flat hair was now neon yellow with pink stripes to match the dress. What dress you may ask? Why, the pink frilly atrocity I now wore. Seriously I think half the Disney Princesses would die before wearing this thing, though it might one hit Rarity. But that pales in comparison to my new footwear. I wore a pair of crocs one baby blue and one neon purple, that had the unfortunate luck of having my thigh high sock covered feet in them. My socks were also mismatched with one being covered in puppies and kittens and the other having planets and comets on them. My pants were now shorts for the sole purpose of keeping the plumage that would put a peacock to shame. Well there was only one response to this. I drew in a breath of air and let out my best chicken/duck impression while waving my arms up and down.

“BGAWK!” ...apparently these pants let me lay very big eggs too. “Am I a Yoshi now?” I asked picking up the egg. “Only one way to find out!” Now who to throw it at? I felt it start wiggling back and forth in my hand. Soon cracks started appearing on it until a tiny head popped out. “Spike am I drugged? Cause I think this is a dog?” Seriously what is going on?

Spike pounded his fist in his palm as he realized what was going on. “Twilight used her first bit of chaos magic on you! Discord will be so proud!”

“That’s great for her but what do I do with this?” I asked pointing at the dog that was sniffing at my hand. “I am kind of busy at the moment!”

The older dragon smirked. “Congratulations, welcome to being a dad! Now whine about being busy later, we have the enemy withdrawing.”

“Fine!” Picking up the dog/son by the scruff I dropped the egg. “Hold on tight boy!” I said doing my best impression of Kratos. “We have villains to lead to the slaughter. Gear Two!” I felt the shield disappear as my outfit changed. Wait I could have solved it like that, wait is it going to change back when I went back to One!? Well better make a gear Three slot at some point.

The dog nodded and... had a very determined face. I swear I heard ‘Okay, daddy’ In my head. I swear if this dog talks, I am naming him Scooby. Or maybe Koromaru. Yeah going with Koromaru, he was a good boy. With that we made our way to the arena with the pupper jumping out of my hands and walking beside me.

Right before I could talk to Simon, he frowned sadly at my battered state. “Okay… I think it’s time you two head home. You did nothing wrong...during the fight that is, but I can no longer guarantee your training in safety here, so… I am satisfied with your assistance, I release you to go home.”

“Wait but I need to show Twilight the new kid she made with me.” I mean it was technically true she did give the chaos magic needed.

Discord punched me straight into the portal that Simon made behind me, Stella coming with shortly after. “WORTH IT!”

The dog’s voice then could be heard in my head as she laughed. “Silly daddy!” Now where the hell was I now? Huh a nice beach... “Well... I guess I deserve this.” I thought as a giant tentacle came up. “Oh, for the love of…” Some god hated me and I think his name was Discord.

Or was it CHAUNCEY?!?!?!?!?
> Chapter 16
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

You know, sea monsters weren’t that bad after you realized they can’t get on land. I watched with waning interest as another tentacle tried to grab us again. “So… how much longer tell it gives up?” I asked turning the Demon Slayer into a long spear that I used to swat it away.

“We know not if it will retreat but we shall finish this soon.” Stella said before notching a faintly glowing arrow. “See if thou can keep them in place.”

I let out a bit of noise before nodding my head. As another tentacle lashed out at me, I moved forward. DS changed and merged with my gauntlet that I used to grab the beast with a grunt I dug the other sword into it. The sword pierced through it and dug into the ground. It tried pulling back but my grip on it and the sword kept them in place.

“We got this!” Koromaru said leaping forward and digging their teeth into it. They hung off the tentacle while letting off a growl. Stella let out a sigh before letting off a shot at the beast. With a single shot bit of giant squid went flying everywhere.

“Well I know what we are having for dinner.” I said with a sigh. “Then we can figure out where we are.” With a nod I dragged the large mass behind me.

“Fishy tonight?” Koro asked trotting behind me. “So, you know how to cook it?”

“A little…” I admit trying to think how to pull it off and make it edible. “Never really liked fish.”

“We know little to about how to cook it.” Stella said having grabbed a chunk that landed nearby. “Shall we set up a camp for the night?”

That caught me off guard but sure enough I saw the sun nearing the end of its journey. “Well looks like we don’t have much of a choice. Better find a place to rest.” Letting out a sigh I turned back toward the forest. I felt the keys inside my head shuffle as Chronos was replaced with Comet. I felt a power cover my eyes as they were drawn a little bit… west? I was never good with direction and now I don’t really need to be thanks to the mini map I got with these powers. “That way.”

“What makes thou sure?” Stella asked picking up more mass of fish as she followed.

“One of my Demons, Comet, offers an ability to help me find things.” I tried to explain which just got me a confused stare from her. “Please just trust me, if this doesn't work, we can just cut down some trees and make a primitive shelter with Alchemy.” I was going to use it anyway to make a bed. What I’m not sleeping on the ground if I don’t have to. I saw her narrow her eyes at me.

“Hey what do I call you two? I mean I called you daddy but are you really?” Koromaru asked trotting up to us with a tilted head. “I don’t think I came from the egg but my memories are fuzzy.” While happy for a break from Stella’s glare I was now left more confused.

“Listen just call me what comes naturally. But if I’m being honest just call me Oz, not ready to be a dad just yet.” I waved it off as Koro let out a hum of thought. “As for miss moody she is Stella, she is in a bit of a mood right now.” Stella let out a sigh and appeared to go back to what she was thinking. Looking forward I elongated the claws of my gauntlet and with a few slashes started cutting my way through the foliage. “I think we are getting closer, Comet is pushing a little more.”

“Oh, good I’m a little tired. Can’t wait to get some fishy.” The dog said happily trying to get past me but kept getting blocked by fallen trees and shrubs. “I already ate some on the beach but I still want to try some cooked.” Within a few more seconds I was able to cut some last vines and saw a nice clearing leading to a cave.

“Alright gang let’s have a nice careful look.” I said feeling the energy leaving me. That fight with the Fallen finally seems to be catching up to me. “Don’t want to barge in on some bears or dragon or worse a Beargon.” I let out a pity chuckle at my horrible joke upon seeing Stella and Koromaru’s blank stare.

“We believe scene thou have a shield they shall go first.” Stella said while casually tossing me under the bus.

“The fun talking lady does make a good point.” Truly man’s best friend has betrayed them.

“Okay I get it, but if I die, I’m haunting you guys.” With a bit of work, I managed to work Aegis Shield into the hand that had once held the Fallen blade. With careful steps I felt Comet try and fix my vision but the cave was starting to get dark and the setting sun wasn’t helping. Holding my hand out I used the SIVA to generate some light and was relieved to not see any life beyond some spiders. “We’re good!”

“Well make a fire we shall prepare the meat for consumption.” Stella said walking slowly into to cave. I let out a sigh as I started getting to work. I walked back out and was happy to find that the fallen blade was able to chop down trees with one slash, along with all nearby trees around.

“Oh boy! Are those for me!” Koro asked bouncing up to me. Not waiting for an answer, they charged ahead and grabbed one of the bigger sticks and started trying to drag it inside. I let out a sigh as I grabbed two myself. Upon getting near I clapped my hands together and laid them on the ground. With a flash Alchemy took place the wood was turned into something close to paper. Didn’t need to be exact here just needed a nice fire starter. Grabbing the other broken-down tree, I dragged them both back in. With another blue flash of lightning I had made a nice hole in the ground for a fire pit.

“Why do you not use that more often?” Stella asked while I started throwing in the fire starters.

“I thought I had explained it, I’m scared of the rebound.” What can I say I like my body intact and don’t want to find out if Heal can replace limbs? “Plus, it requires more knowledge then I currently have. You need to know the very makeup of the thing you are creating.” Might call Ed about that later and see if he could give me another knowledge dump.

“We see,” Stella said with a nod while she was working on the meal.

I heard a yawn off to my side. “Night new family.” Koromaru said as they laid down. As they did though I saw them break off into bits of light. A quick mental check showed that they now had taken another slot in my head I didn’t know existed. I guess they were treated as some sort of Demon for the time being. Might take some experiments but I would figure it out. But for now, there were more pressing matters.

“So, you given up on your revenge yet?” It had been more than a week, if I remember right, since she was created and had the talk with Simon. I had planned to have this talk with said individual present but, eh, intergalactic wars apparently happen what can you do?

“Are we not going to talk about thou’s dog?” Stella asked but upon seeing my blank stare let out a huff of irritation. “What do you want me to say? That we forgive her? That we learned Sir Simon’s lesson and will follow his point of view? That our heart and mind has changed?” Stella yelled at me with growing irritation. “Then idiot Oz we hate to disappoint you but our answer is no. No, we cannot forgive them so easily or quickly!”

You know I somewhat expected that answer but… yeah there was still a little shock. “Figured as much and I can’t say I get it. Because really, I doubt there is anyway expect for a mind share, which we are not doing, for me to understand.” I said with a shrug only to pause at seeing Stella’s glare.

“Thou are right, thou shall never understand what we went through.” Her words came out through clenched teeth like water being forced through a small grate. “To be made, no we were always there. We were just held back by that weak puppet that was too afraid. Afraid of what WE could do.” Was that the royal we or the inclusive we? What I’m not interrupting to ask, I prefer my body parts attached. “Then when we were let to shine, to truly shine and show the whole world what we can do. Oh, how we shone and OUR moon shone with us. It was a true sight to see. The moon, stars and me.” Stella slowed down as a found smile came to her face. I could see a mist start coming to her eyes.

“That was our first true memory you know?” I bit my tongue to not interrupt but instead subtly moved closer. “Before we only remember snippets of the puppet’s life, or blackness.” I barely caught the last part that she muttered. “But that night, when the moon and stars that we put up shone their brightest, that moment we shall always remember. Too sad for us it all lasted as long as a moment.” Now the anger returned in full. “OUR sister charged in and demanded we lower our art and turn back to the weak puppet we were before. ‘Let our real sister go!’ she shouted at us, like we were some kind of fake! We attempted to show her who was the real but her head was like her sun, among the clouds. As you know we then fought, lost, and were sealed in our very moon for a thousand years.” Stella finished her voice a mix of anger, betrayal and sorrow.

Meanwhile my mind was hitting the book I got from Shining. It had nothing in it about THIS! That secret librarian weapon was not the complete history if it missed this! I saw her start to turn to me. Crap need to keep her talking, “Thousand years, how did you keep yourself entertained?”

A slow chuckle escaped her lips. “We planned our revenge. We knew Celestia would never accept us as her true sister so we knew we had to deal with her. The puppet,” Stella let out a breath of air before going forward, “well guess she is the real Luna now, would not assist me so I mainly left her alone. I saw no use in her expect to as entertainment for when I wished to fish around for memories. When not doing either of those either slept or were left with our thoughts.” Damn sounds lonely, Stella seemed to agree with me. “Yet it was all for naught. That, that, BITCH Celestia made it all worthless. A thousand-year plan ruined due to incompetent minions and friendship.” Was this what Ed and Simon were talking about with the whole Elements thing? Side note, existing on a planet where the power of friendship was real and could kill you was wired.

“Then I employed our plan B. We laid low, modified and strengthened our selves and the nearby wildlife with the power we discovered.” Was she talking about Star Power? Star Power seemed the most reasonable sense she seemed to be treated as a Demon from the second game. “But then thou and that stupid Crimson Butcher came and ruined everything! We were broken and laid low! We could have recovered but that too was taken from us when that accursed eye of thou’s bound us! Now look at what we have fallen to! A mere servant with our legacy tarnished by a smear!” Stella continued on not seeming to need any further producing, not that she needed it more than once. She let out a couple more breathes as she turned toward me with her full force. “So, tell me Demon Gazer should I forgive them. Forgive them changing my name then dragging the new one through the mud! Forgive the Luna who would beg on her hands and knees for forgiveness when we did nothing wrong! Forgive the sister who wronged us more times than we could count! Forgive the people who even now spit at us and tell their children horror stories about us!” Man, that was a loaded question if I ever heard one.

I sat in silence near her for a bit before coming up with what I hoped would be a good answer. “I would be a hypocrite to day I never want revenge. Hell, I have a list of people of revenge and yes before you ask yes Simon is on it. No idea how I’m going to do but I might, hey he is on it.” I start with letting out a huff. “And like I said before there is no way for me to understand what you went through so I can’t tell you to just get over it. But I have to ask, and yes this does relate to revenge, is Celestia and Luna really worth this. The subjects from a thousand years ago are gone and the only one carrying on this thing is you.” Man, I floundered that out badly.

“What do you mean? Of course, our revenge is worth it! When our dear sister is brought low, we shall rule over Equestria and its people! How is that not worth it?” Stella yelled at me still running on the energy from her earlier rant.

“There right there is why it’s not worth it.” I say confusing Stella. “If or when you defeat Celestia you then have to rule over the people whose ruler you just killed. From what I understand she has been doing this for around a thousand years. So, upon killing her you would just wind up with a whole lot of revolutions that would stop at nothing to kill you or your followers. It would just keep going on till whatever few remaining subjects live in terror over you and start to try and find other ways to kill you.” I saw Stella take a thinking pose as if going over something might as well try something else. “Then what do think would happen with the other kingdoms? They would smell the blood in the water and try to take advantage of the weakened state to seize control. See what I mean about your revenge being pointless. Even if you get it against Celestia all that would happen is you would wind up hurting yourself the most. Plus, with that in mind you would be left with almost no subjects and an empty throne.” I point out as Stella fell further into further thinking.

“Now like I said before I have people, I would like to get revenge on but you know what? I don’t get or even if a chance comes, I might not take it. You want to know why?” I leaned forward so I could look in her eyes. “It’s because I truly want to be better. Better than them and better than the me who wanted to get that revenge.” I saw her focus a bit more on me now. “Now do I fail. Yes, most of the time I do. Like today after Twilight put me in that ugly as outfit and somehow messed with my Star Power I was pissed. All I did was open my mouth to make a joke, yes, she took it the wrong way and yes, I could have phrased it better but point still stands. So, in return I got revenge by making her first act a bit of a joke with the child joke.” Now that was a memory.

Stella seemed to focus on me a bit more. “So, thou did that on purpose? Here we thought thee just opened up thou’s mouth to let thee’s words cascade out so thou wouldn’t choke on them.”

One:  ow, that hurt. Two:  was I really that bad? I mean yeah, I seemed to piss of most people I came across in this world. Huh, when put that way, I should probably watch my mouth more. Ed did mention it when he was leaving. “That is true, unfortunately. But hey nobody is perfect.” I say shrugging my shoulders. “Back to you though with the whole forgiveness thing… I don’t think at this point if it’s possible for you to truly forgive them. So how about instead of truly forgiving them you try… maybe moving past them?” I offered weakly. Stella glared at me now with an expression demanding I explain myself.

“Listen you said it yourself, you are the ‘True Luna’. So why not prove it by doing what she couldn’t. Well what I assume she couldn’t do. Move past the past, stop giving so much of your energy to two people who you don’t believe worth it. After all, as a wise goat once said ‘Your story may not have not have such a happy beginning but that does not make you who you are, it is the rest of it - who you choose to be.” I’m not sure how much the quote fit in but I always found it helped me at points. After all I could only be the best me, and maybe try to be a better me that has control of my mouth.

“We thank you for the talk we are going to bed.” Stella said before getting up and walking over to a corner. With little talk I throw some blankets and pillows her way, what after Simon heard about what I could store in it we both shoved as many things we could in the item pouch. I am now ready for most things. So, I now head over to my own spot and get set up for first watch.

Turning I saw Stella quickly fall asleep so now with an actual moment to myself that doesn’t have me laid out died it is time to go over things with my helper. “Terra that nuisance that you mentioned when we first met. Is it a dragon star demon, a thing made of a lot of souls?” I asked the demon.

I saw some of the shadows on the wall darken as a red glowing eye appeared. “I don’t know how you know but yes, it is as you described. It is a somewhat lesser demon then the ones you are used to wielding.” So, Terra can’t go through my memories. That is very good to know, or maybe he just sees it as below him to do so. Next is the implications of having the Demon from game 2 in my head. One of which is how I would go about getting more Star Power to use the abelites it could offer.

“Yeah like I said it is a collection of Star Power and souls while you are some type of god corrupted by Sol or something.” I wave off as I moved my legs hearing them pop. “So weird question. Any idea on how to get more Star Power? I think I somewhat remember how to get some but that requires a radio and things we don’t have.” I knew my spotty memory would come back to bite me but to think it would be about video games… Man this is so, something.

I shook my head trying to keep awake as I saw the eye tilt and squint. “I don’t think we need to do much. This world seems to overflow with the energy. You should be able to draw it in to a certain amount while I work on increasing the amount you can hold.” Man having a powerful Demon in my head seems helpful at certain points. “Just remember that this is for my own purposes. The more Star Power you have the more I can use upon coming free.” Man, and I thought I was good at killing a moment.

“What about Koromaru? Is he somewhere in there?” I had to make sure I didn’t lose the dog on the first day of owning it.

“The creature born of chaos lies around here but it shall be a few days till it can be summoned again. I shall let you know when you can next use it.” The eye started fading, “Now I must go I have work to do. I doubt that the King you met doesn’t realize the damage him and the chaos disciple did to our souls.” I don’t know whether to believe him or not. On one hand if anyone would know our soul best it would be him. On the other he might be trying to get me to lose some trust in Simon. Seeing him disappear and whatever constituted as our bond vanish, I was left alone. Man, I hate being alone.

Trying to pass some time I started shifting through my item pouch. It was the only thing I could do at the moment and seemed to function more like a Pokémon bag then the one from DG. My hand let me know what things it came across as I continued to rummage around in it trying to stay entertained. “Wonder if the mini radio from two is in there?” As I said this, I pulled out not only the radio I was looking for but also some small crystals. “Oh, maintenance crystals? I almost forgot about these.” In the second game you could perform maintenance on the Demons you acquired. These would allow the Demon new ability and raise their states. “Do I need to use these on Stella? How would that even work I think I’m missing some equipment to do it.” Dang it so many questions, none of which I could answer. Mainly because the book about this subject was written in ancient elf. Maybe Stella knew the language but not me. With a sigh I dropped the shards into the bag while rolling the radio around in my hand.

“Why is this my life?” Wow, pity party for me. See this is why I hate being alone, I self-reflect and my past actions weren’t the best recently. “You know I never figured out why that Lightning chick got mad about me asking about here numbers.” Following up on my time from the ship what did Azure Zap give to me. Reaching back into my bag I pulled out the rings and sheet of paper. Looking over I slipped the rings on while unfolding the sheet. “Wait is this what they thought I was talking about?” I felt my face slowly start lighting up. “This somewhat, might, justify why they are mad at me. But, no why did they freak out about everything.” Whelp I got Lightning something’s measurements now.  “Whelp, at least this is a somewhat good distraction from other things.” Yeah like the way we might never see our friends and family again. Or how we have a Demon bent on bringing about the end of the world. I might need a therapist or two. Maybe Ed knows one, or I could just talk to him about other things and hope my problems sort themselves out. That works to and doesn’t require me confronting touchy subjects I would rather throw in a hole and ignore them.
> Chapter 17
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

I had managed to stay awake, somehow, and saw morning slowly come. I stifled a yawn mad I wasn’t one of those video characters that could go days without sleep. Hmm, wonder how a displaced Link would function. Guess it would depend on what game they came from.

“Did thou stay up all night?” Like would they be like the Smash version or BotW, these are questions that need answers. “Are we being ignored?” Was someone talking to me? Turning my head slowly I saw Stella with the blanks balled up and held under her arm. Her normily immaculate clothes and hair showed that she had moved around a bit in her sleep.

“Do we need to find someone for you, umm, like a stylist?” I asked my speech slow. I wonder if Heal would give me some energy. Or would it be Health Heal sense exhaustion could be considered a debuff. I should be able to access it now.

“No, we always look our best.” Stella stated while passing me the pillows and blankets. I shoved them into the bag repressing another yawn.

“I’m sure,” I mumbled out trying to figure out how to work Health Heal. If I used happy thoughts for Heal then maybe Health worked by me using, I don’t know maybe healthy thoughts. I went through my head trying to find what something to match and just went to the time I visited doctors or dentist. My family was on very good terms with our dentist, we even got invited to their house for the fourth of July. I felt my exhaustion slowly leave me as an energy similar to Heal but different flow through me I stood up. “So any idea where we are?” Out of either of us she would know where we are.

“We are sorry to inform you that we have no idea where we are.” Stella said shaking her head. “We don’t recognize the location, this world has changed since we have last been here.”

“Well looks like we’re going till we find something.” Come on Comet give me something here. I felt my senses start turning me toward one of the nearby mountains. “Comet says we start over there.” I point in the direction before walking over.

“Ah yes, that Demon,” Stella says following me. “How many do you have? We never got an answer.”

“Oh I have elven Demons. Though I can only access a few right now.” I kept having to tap Comet due to the lack of trail anywhere nearby. Checking I’m relieved to note that this is passive so I’m not using any of the chain. Would hate to get into a fight and not have any Demons all because I needed a compass. 

“We see, are we included in this number?” Stella asked trying to keep the conversation going. 

“No you are number twelve.” We continued on with me changing DS to a machete so I could easily clean the way. “Before you ask though I only have access four of them at the moment.” As we made our way around the mountain I see the guiding light break off into two different directions. What? My head swivels back and forth looking between the two of them. Were there two different cities nearby? Or two ways to get there. I mean there are almost hundreds of ways to get to the same location but I would think Comet would let me know the most efficient route. So why try to show me somewhere else?

“We shall not be ignored!” I yelled at being pulled out of my thoughts. “Now tell us what you deemed more important than our conversation!” Man she seemed mad.

“Comet’s guiding light thing just went off in two different directions.” I try to explain still trying to figure out which way to go. “One is heading deeper in the forest while the other is toward the mountain.” Reaching into my pocket I fished around and pulled out one of the gold coins I won. “You win we go toward the forest, lose we go hiking.” Seeing her sigh before nodding I flip the coin.

“Heads.” Stella says as the coin comes down. Slapping my hand down I hold it for a second before showing he the tail side of the coin. “Very well, shall we head toward the mountain?” With a nod we both head out. “So did thou really stay up all night?”

“Yeah, had to.” Man I hate awkward conversations. Well I am the one making it awkward but point still stands. “Someone had to make sure no critters tried to kill us in our sleep or steal things.” 

“Ah I see, we had not thought of that, for that we apologize.” Stella said offhandedly, but hey I’ll take what I can get.

“No problem,” I waved off clearing the way more. Fun fact:  after becoming the Demon Gazer I seem to have gained a video game characters endurance. Meaning I don’t get tired from walking or fighting. Now running, strenuous activity, or staying up all night will tire me out. Found that out during training. As we fell back into silence I checked my slot one to see if there was anything I could do about that atrocity. No matter what I tried the clothes stayed. So having to admit defeat I instead made it slot three while making a new slot one. Which confused me so much now that I thought about it. Slots just means weapons, so how did it change my appearance? Not that I’m going to complain. Upon nearing the base of the mountain the forest thins allowing me to see farther.

“So we go around or over?” The peanut gallery asked having taken out her glaive to keep herself entertained. Huh, wonder if I can use the mini radio to find something to listen to? No bad thoughts stay on track!

“We go through it,” I explain as I walk up to a stone wall. With a quick kick part of it fell away leaving a door in its place. “Wonder why someone would make this then hide it?” 

“We can think of a few reasons but that is not important.” Stella said waving it off. We walked a ways into the dungeon as the lights started to dim around us. The stone work was cracked in a few places but overall looked well put together and was holding up well. I held my hand up in front of me as I focused up on trying to make a fire. 

“Come on, come on… GAZER FLAME!” In my cupped hand a blue flame formed. The flame flew in front of me before hovering there. “Now stay!” Don’t know how this compares to the game but hey floating fire is useful. Turning I saw Stella giving me a blank stare. “What?”

“Nothing just wondering if you talk to all inanimate objects.” Seems I’m out of the formal thou category. What I do research, occasionally.

“Only when I feel like it.” I shot back while squinting. The Gazer Flame provided some light but it was still pretty dark in here. Plus if games, Legend of Zelda in particular, taught me anything it’s that dungeons had traps and puzzles. So not being able to see very far was going to be a problem. I ran energy through the SIVA in Demon Slayer but all I got was a dull light so I let it go with a sigh. “Long shot but you wouldn’t happen to have any light spells?” I asked while grabbing my bag and shoved my entire hand in there. Maybe I had a flashlight or something in there.

“We in fact do but would prefer to save our magic for more important matters.” Stella said with a wave of their hand. Oh how much I wanted to chew her out for that but my gamer instincts were yelling to save MP. I should properly get her some MP Regen artifacts soon. Next town for sure. Probably call Ed then too.

I stuck out my tongue a little in concentration before pulling out a flashlight. “Thank you foresight!” I cheered while turning it on. A beam of light lit up the path forward as we continued on our way down. “So… how you doing?”

Stella shot me the most confused expression while her brain tried to process what I said. “...We think we slept on our shoulder wrong. We are not used to sleeping in caves or rougher terrain.” Well that was more than I was expecting.

“Yeah sleeping outdoor requires a bit of work. I remember, somewhat, my first time camping outdoors. Wound up putting my tent on an ant hill, was not fun, at all.” I said back while swinging my light back and forth. Something was a little off, I just couldn’t put my finger on what yet. Man this is going to drive me crazy.

“Yes even our memories of Luna tell us that we always had a bed and other sleeping essentials with us so we would not sleep on rocks. So then Demon Gazer please tell us why it is that you do not have a bed in your bag?” That is a very good question. I mean Furiter was a thing in both games, used to up characters stats, so why didn’t I have one of the beds? No bad brain focus on the uneasy feeling in our guts. Why are we so on edge, were we about to be attacked?... Wait a second here…

“It’s quite, too quite.” I muttered suddenly spinning pointing my light in all directions, yes I checked above me, I’m not that stupid. “Where the hell are all the monsters? Where are the slimes that want to digest us in their fluids?” I cry out trying to figure things out. My mind was cycling through tropes while I cursed myself for jinxing everything.

“Yes now that you mention it we to find it odd that not one creature is about. Dark energy clings to these very walls.” Stella added throwing my mind into overdrive with the new pariona added on to it. 

“Damn it!” I cursed wishing I had more lights. Well time to remember my rules of how to survive a horror movie. “Rule one:  Just leave!” I turn to go back the way I came but found a wall in the way. “No, no, no, NO,” I start saying as I summoned my mental map. I saw the grayed line behind me meaning it was a one way wall. Don’t ask me how a wall can be one way it just lets you walk through it then block the way, “NOOO!” I screamed while trying to figure out what to do next. 

“So sense you can’t do whatever ‘rule one’ is, what now.” I did not need this right now. Need to stay on track and not die. 

“Rule two:  Never split up. It never helps, ever.” Unless you had a talking dog, but I’m not bring that up, sense I do have one. “So Rule three: Slow and steady, always check things.” I am not letting something sneak up on me. “Come on we are finding the exit and leaving.” I let Demon slayer slide up a bit and turn into a crossbow. I needed long range for anything coming up.

“Here we thought you would like walking around finding treasure.” Stella said following close, good she is listening to me.

“Maybe later but right now I had no sleep and we are not equipped for an area this dark.” I say while waving our single flashlight around. If there is something I hate it is not seeing what is coming up. Heck I don’t even have another flashlight and Gazer Flame I sent behind is barely giving any light. Damn it at this rate I’m going to start jumping at any sounds in the distance. “Now come on I want out of here,” note for the future, stop going in new places without full equipment.

As we walked I saw the hallway open up into a room. I held up my hand as I slowed down. My gaming instincts were yelling at me that opponents were up ahead. I turned the flashlight off while peaking over the door. A broken lantern lay on the floor giving off a faint light and thankfully letting me see four skeletons with a faint red haze around them. Damn it, the only way forward was through here. I slowly backed up as different plans went through my head. “Stella do you know how strong those things are?”

“Hmm,” She shuffled past me as she gazed at the enemy. “They seem quite old so they are bound to be quite strong. We would suggest avoiding them.” 

“Easier said than done. BUT, this is the only way,” I let out a sigh as I finished the plan. “I suggest we rush full force and try to take them out before they see us.” I turned to Stella who deadpanned at my brillent, but obvious, plan. “Now let’s go full force.”

I looked at Stella eye to eye as I pulled at the Star Power trying to get it to move. I felt it surged forward as it pushed forward. “Stella break your chains and become the True Queen of the Moon!” The words poured out of my mouth as Stella was enveloped by blue chains. I knew there would be a bit of dust kicked up but damn I really should have tested this before doing this. The chains were smashed to bits with a hysterical laugh as Nightmare Moon stepped forward. Very little had changed about her except that the once mechanical wings that hover behind her were now actual wings that looked like a cross between bat and bird. I heard the skeletons start heading our way.

Thankfully the door blocked them all from coming out at once and they seemed dumb enough not to change strategy. “Bolt!” I screamed launching the aura spear while Demon Slayer turned into a spear. I saw a red arrow launch over my shoulder as the arrow impacted it went up into a giant fire storm. “Mars Bane,” I pressed on stabbing forward as the attack went off four times. The fire died down showing a pile of ash and two skeletons still pressing forward. I let out a small curse while brining my shield up blocking a hit from the first skelton. I barely registered the pain lacing up my arm as a foot bone sneaked past and impacted my stomach. I was sent past Stella who launched a blue sparking arrow that hit the first skelton which upon impact started spazzing as the second passed. The second was quick to slash at Stella who managed to block the slash.

“Mars Bane,” Demon Slayer launched forward and knocked the second back. I spun it around landing another hit, “Bolt!” Make that two. Thankfully it crumpled down into a pile of ash as the first finally recovered and sprinted forward. Another blue sparking arrow hit it but didn’t slow it down much. “Mars Bane!” I had barely gotten the Concentration in as I launched another attack as it to went into a pile of ash. I let out a sigh as a Heal started working through me. “Well that went well.”

“Yes, we are glad that the fight went well and we have returned to our rightful…” Her thought ended as a golden light flashed out of her. Once more Stella stood where NM had once been. “So it appears that it is not permanent, yet.” I saw the glare she gave me demanding that I find a way.

“Yeah I’ll get right on that.” I mumbled out while rubbing my shoulders. I might not get tired anymore but that didn’t mean my arms didn’t hate carrying these heavy things. I took in the room before me. It was a barren room with only a table, a few chairs and a bookcase off to the side. Oh there was also some golden armor set off to the side. “What do we have here.” I walked forward slowly as I reached out my armored hand. It landed on the shoulder piece where I felt a bit of slow movement. “Still barely alive eh, well better fix that.” Checking my MP pool I saw that I have about two or three Heals in me. Should be enough to get them more then stable. I launched the first one going through the process of summoning my happy and loving memories before going right onto the second Heal.

“It seemed that you have found what the servants of the tomb were playing with.” Stella said from behind me. Having used up all my MP I stood up slowly while fishing around my pouch looking for some MP restoration items.

“So if those were the servants then rule fifteen must be followed.” I could see Stella about to question me and was about to answer when a groan interrupted us. I was prepared to go against another zombie when I saw it came from the sun guard in front of us. Slowly golden eyes looked up and a loose gaze met mine.

“Oz?” A tired voice asked as I found the item I was looking for. Bringing out the seed I threw it into my mouth and felt the MP flood my system.

“Huh you look… familiar.” Damn I feel like it was on the tip of my tongue. I mean gold eyes and green hair was a bit unusual. “Sit still I should have you good soon.” I casted another heal on her wanting to make sure she was in good health.

“We need to go…” She started and stop a few times as if trying to get her mind working. “Yeah we need to go help Sunset.” Oh that was how I knew her! She was part of that one team… 

Which meant if she was here then Sunset, Lightning something, and Indigo Zep were here. So one out of four found. I hate this dungeon already.
> Chapter 18
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

My head felt heavy, I felt my memories swirl around as they fell into place. After the incident in the Everfree forest Sunset spent a few days researching in Canterlot then the report from Griffenstone came. Some unknown creature was attacking  so Celestia sent Twilight and some of her friends to help the kingdom. It was amusing to see how mad Sunset got with her dissection. They were only there for a day but apparently the creature was beaten by Oz. Yeah somehow he came back and with two unknown creature/companions. They had not seen how the fight ended so how they did it was still a mystery.

After hearing what had happened Sunset had dived back into the library searching for another lost dungeon or tomb to ‘clear’, as Lightning would say. Apparently some random Harpie was made ruler which threw everything into chaos and revolt over there, so that was fun. Back on topic though was when Sunset came barging in after having found a rumor about an old dungeon. Within a day they had arrived at the location and had started exploring before they had run into a few skeletons. This lead to my current predicament. After trying to deal with them we had found that they were much stronger than expected and were pushed back. Unfortunately for me, I was still a little hungry and was unfortunate enough to step on a trap that sent me tumbling into a secret passage. 

Within a couple of minutes I had wondered upon what seemed like an old brake room where more skeletons ambushed me. Being caught off guard and not having much room to movaver my spear I was quickly overrun by the three reanimated beings. I remember the pain of being tossed against a wall after one of their swords destroyed my weapon. I had spat out blood as I felt some of my wounds from earlier open up. I was going to die, of that I was curtain as I felt one of them hit my head rattling me even more. Already I could see darkness encroaching my vision. I wondered if this was how the she felt during her last moments.

So now I was curious as to how I was opening them again. I mean I heard of having your life flash before your eyes but I think I was missing a few moments. “...rule fifteen must be followed.” A soothing voice said. I felt, good, full, and well rested. I tried opening my eyes only for them to feel like lead weights. A blurry image came into focus. Well not so much an image as a person. A vaguely familiar one, 

“Oz?” I saw his mouth move as he got closer to me. My mind was finally starting to have pieces fall into place. “We need to go…” We needed get out of here but to where? Back to base? To see the leader? I felt my mouth move as I contemplated what to say. It was kinda hard to think as more energy flowed into me. My thoughts slowed down as I remember my mission. “Yeah we need to go help Sunset.” The mission always came first.

I saw Oz’s face contort in thought as various emotions went through him. “Alright I need to know what is going on.” He said letting out a tired sigh.

“Why change now?” A silky smooth voice asked. A women stood behind him wearing typical hunter gear yet not matching any of other companies he had been seen with. “You seem to do well being dumb.”

“Be that as it is, I would prefer to at least have a hint before fighting more skeles.” Oz said before grabbing me and with a grunt forced me into a seat. “So tell me what is going on if you would please.” So I did just that, I told him everything he needed to know.

~Later~

I rubbed my nose in slight irritation. What the hell was going on? When did my once simple life turn into this mess? I really need to look into religion cause I need more gods to curse then I can remember at the moment. “So your team is still somewhere in here?” 

“As far as I know, yes,” Lemon replied. Now before you ask yes I remembered her name, it just took longer then I would like to admit.

“So what are we going to do?” Stella asked having paid the minimum amount of attention to the conversation.

“I thought it was obvious, we’re going to help them.” I told her plainly, seriously were they expecting me to run? I mean if nobody else was here then yeah I probably would, but people are in danger. So I must find them, then run away.

“So how are we going to find them?” Damn you Stella and your logic! Reaching down I looked at the Comet key before closing my eyes. The key had lead me this far can’t doubt it now. As much as I would love to swap it out, I need it right now. Now with Chronos in the second slot I could at least survive long enough to take down one or two skeletons. I don’t want to spam Demonize to often. Can’t waste SP, might need it later.

“Comet can lead the way, most likely,” I mumbled the last part under my breath as I stood up. “Now come on we will get nothing done if nothing is done, and more importantly the longer we wait the more likely the others are to die.”

“Right,” Lemon said putting on her helmet as she followed.

“We shall let you lead,” Stella said while falling into step.

As I head out I stick to the wall peeking around corners as I check for any enemies. I’m not getting sneaked attack! I followed the corridor to the end where it split off in two directions. “Damn it,” I tried pushing or pulling on Comet only to get nothing meaning I had to make a choice. “Anyone got any advice or suggestion?” The room was square with two doors on either side behind two wooden doors.

“I am still a bit disoriented, sorry.” Lemon said shaking their head. 

“We see that Comet has failed you so we shall suggest… left.” Sounded good to me. I gave a nod as I walked left only having to check once to make sure I was going the right way, left. I might be just a bit dyslexic. We continued down the corridor till we reached a corner. A quick peak around the corner showed us a being wearing heavy armor shuffle forward. I think I saw another one behind them but I pulled my head back to look at the group. I held up a finger as I pointed around the corner hopping they would catch on.

Stella nodded pushing me back as she took my spot. I felt two hands on my back keeping me up. Lemon must not like people getting close to her. Just to be sure I looked behind me to see her giving me a blank stare. Leaning forward I watched as Stella let an arrow fly. We heard a scream as something came charging forward. “Shit!” I yelled grabbing a stunned Stella before running back to open cross room. As I run in I grabbed the door shutting it with as much force as I could. “What happened!”

“That armor must act somewhat like your shield.” Are you kidding me! I was jared from anything else as a gleaming sword started hitting the door breaking parts of it. What kinda Minecraft crap is this! More and more of the door was destroyed as another groan was heard. Turning the Demon Slayer into a crossbow I took aim at the door while loading another Concentration. As they burst into the room Stella and I were quick to hit them with a “Mars Bane,” and another arrow.

I tried to force another Concentration but it was slow as the zombie came closer though without the armor. It seems that whatever these were made of they were nowhere near as durable as the ones Ed had. Lemon charged ahead thrusting her hands forward with her crystal glowing. Her hands glowed with a faint yellow light as she thrusted forward causing a surge of electricity that filled the room with the scent of burnt flesh. With a groan the zombie fell down into a twitching mass.

“Double tap!” I yelled swinging Demon Slayer down onto the head. I was rewarded with the sight of the head rolling away as I gave a firm nod. “Good now let us continue…” Hearing pounding I turned to see the other door bending inwards. “No, Stella freeze that door we are running now!” With only a second delay the door was frozen shut as I turned and covered as much distance as I could hearing Lemon and Stella following not far behind. 

Rushing down the halls I slammed into another door opening it quickly. As Stella and Lemon entered I shut it just as quickly. “Stella freeze it I’m not taking chances!” Jumping back another blue arrow hit the door freezing it solid. “Good that should be enough to hopefully get the agro off us.” 

“Does thou have any more of those seeds that restore mana?” Stella asked walking up to me. As I reached back into the bag I pulled out three more seeds. “So do we venture deeper?” The archer asked while I dumped them into her hands.

“No choice we haven’t even found a way out yet.” I answered while she chewed and slowed causing light blue energy to flair around her briefly. I wonder if that happened to me? “We should rest for a second before continuing.”

“That sounds good…” Lemon said collapsing into a chair while removing her helmet. “I still am not quite at hundred percent even with all those heal spells.” Huh so Heal just restored Health but not Stamina, just like in most games. Huh was this like Persona 3 where being tired would lower stats and increase chances of missing. Either way she is staying out of combat.

I leaned against the wall while thinking of some way to get through the rest of dungeon. This would be so much easier if I knew mine or the others stats. Closing my eyes I looked at what little of this area I had mapped out. Half opening my eyes I saw Stella pacing back and forth while mumbling to herself. “What is it?”

“Nothing just… Where are the rest of the monsters? Why did those other zombies quit following us so quickly?” Stella said rubbing her temples while Lemon perked up.

“Yeah when we first entered there were ghosts around every corner but I haven’t seen any since joining up with you guys.” Huh wonder why that could be. I saw a blue flame hover around the room, you know I almost forgot about that thing. Must have been because of the sudden abundance of torches. 

“It’s because of Gazer Flame,” I said causing Stella to turn towards the flame. “Not only does it give off some light but also scares away some monsters.” Hopefully that explained something to them.

“An interesting technique.” As the conversation died down the door not frozen was knocked open when two black armored figures fell in. We were all quick to pull out our weapons as I drew close and poked one with DS. 

A soft groan came from the one on the bottom as yellow eyes looked up before dilating at seeing the blade right in front of them. “Lightning I think we might have a problem.” All she got in response was a groan as the one on top fell off showing cracked armor with parts falling off in places.

“Indigo Map?” I asked confused causing her to snap up to look up to me.

“First off, it’s Indigo Zap! Second… you look familiar, but what are you doing here!” Okay that is fair, I don’t remember most people after not seeing them for awhile. 

“Indigo where is Sunset?” Lemon asked as Indigo’s eyes widened as she looked at her teammate.

“Lemon your still alive!” Indigo yelled trying to get up. “We were so worried!” Man other person must be really hurt if she’s not moving. Leaning down I put my hand down as I started my Heal rounds.

“Yes, yes great to see you too, now where is Sunset?” Lemon pressed she reached down to help grab Indigo before stopping for a second. “Stella you mind helping me I’m still a little tired.”

Stella gave a grunt before following Lemon’s lead as they got Indigo to a seat while I started draining my MP to help Dust, I think that’s her name. Anyway I was lamenting the diminishing return on Heal. As we got to the higher levels it restored less and less HP. I might need to look into fixing that or finding a way to change around Artifacts. Man it seems to be doing a little less than usual, Light Something must have alot of health.

As I got off the third she let out a groan as her eyes fluttered open a bit. “Wha…” she moaned out while trying to move. “Whoa stay still. I’ll get you good soon.” I really should conserve MP, but I still need to heal her… I’m an idiot. Reaching into the item bag I pulled out some MP restoring seeds and two bottles of slave.

“We ran into a dead end so Sunset in a fit of panic cast a teleportation spell to save us.” Dammit I forgot to listen to Indigo. I turned my head toward them while rubbing in the slave onto the exposed skin, while trying not to blush. “She was interrupted part of the way through so something went wrong and we all got separated. Lucky me and Lightning wound up close to each other. But then to balance it out we got chased by some ghosts to here.”

“Wait you were chased here by ghosts?” I asked interrupting her story. Everyone turned to me as I walked toward the door looking out of it. “Where are they!” I am not being killed by Casper!

“Oh crap, I almost forgot about them!” Indigo yelled while looking around. “Why aren’t they here right now!”

“Have you forgotten already. We know why the female would know not but for you to have forgotten so quick, shameful.” Stella said while shaking her head. “That ball of flame seems to scare them off. Or dissuade them from coming near.” Oh right… oops.

“Well let’s wait a minute before leaving, anything else we should know,” I said trying to break the awkward atmosphere while I went back to treating Lightning.

“Well now that you mention it…”
> Chapter 19
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

We sat around in the room with me twitching every so often. I looked around trying to spot any ghosts trying to get in while thinking of something to do to pass the time. Eventually my eyes landed on the three teammates laying around. Lightning was holding her knees to her chest looking very sollun, Indigo was looking over her bow that had bits falling off, and Lemon was looking like she was ready for a nap. “Hey Lemon do you use one or two handed spears?” I saw her head snap up and look at me in shock.

“Oh I prefer one handed spears. Better maneuverability and such.” Huh, well she is pretty useless without a weapon. I reach back into my pouch hoping that all the items came with me from the games. I never really had a reason to check before to see if they came with but hey, better late than never. My hand gripped something that felt a bit like wood so with a pull I started bringing it out. 

Poiniriurs was the name of the weapon, one of two S ranked spears in the game. It was a short spear meant to be used with one hand. It was made of something looking like polished wood with leather wrapped around it to give it better grip. The spearhead was an intricately forged metal metal that appeared to have grown out of the shaft itself leaving no clear indicator where one ended and the other began. Dotted throughout the spear were different gems that shined with an inner light. “Here catch,” I said tossing it to her. What was meant to be a light thrown wound up with the spear logged into the stone beside her. “Be careful with that thing it’s powerful.” Note to self be more careful with S ranked gear.

“Um… thanks…” Lemon said trying to pull out the spear. “This thing is logged in there good.” With a final grunt she got it free and stared at the weapon in awe. Indigo looked back and forth between us as she stopped to look at her bow before returning back to me and Lemon. 

“Hey bro any chance I could…?” I thought about it before Stella beat me to it.

“Ask not what thou need not. Thou’s weapon is fine so thou shall use it.” Turning a gaze to Lemon she continued, “We shall want that back when thou hast found another spear to use. We fear that one is too strong to leave in thou’s hands for too long.”

Lemon looked saddened by the news that she could not keep it for good. I wanted to tell her that it would be no problem but the gamer part of me demanded that I keep the S ranked weapon near me at all times. Call it compulsive but I like having the most powerful weapons I could get on me or near me at all times. I do not like not knowing if they could be used against me, ever. 

“I understand, thanks for letting me use it for awhile.” Lemon said dipping her head in appreciativeness. “I shall take front line with you Oz.” I shook my head negative.

“No you are still to tired, stay in Mid line I can at least handle myself for awhile.” I said waving her off. “Same goes for you Light,” Lightning just gave a small nod. Seems she was still worn out if she wasn’t going to put up a fight.  “Alright thirty more seconds then we head out.” 

I felt the time pass slowly as the three newcomers gathered themselves up. Indigo attached her bow to her back, Lemon held Poiniriurs close to her while taking deep breaths to calm herself down, and Lightning tried to get to her feet only to wobble as she tried to steady herself. Damn I needed to figure out how to restore stamina, was it a debuff? Was it a stasis condition? I felt Health Heal rise up as I casted it over her. I saw Lightning steady herself a bit but was still not all there. But she was obviously doing better but not well enough to be in the thick of it. 

With a nod between all of us I opened the not frozen door and we headed out. Once again I took it slow checking around corners and crevices to try and spot any enemies. We spotted a few ghosts up ahead. Creeping up we managed to catch them from behind. Unlike the zombies they were quick to dispatch and only took a few hits to down. Well more like turn into dust. When hit hard enough they popped and left only a bit of dust behind.

As we pressed forward I saw a split in the path ahead so with a quick check I proceed to the left and after a minute was shown I had chose the wrong path. “Cave in,” I heard Indigo mutter as we turned only to come face to specterd face with some, happly, regular zombies. Needless to say they did not last long but the fight dragged on due to the number of them that kept coming.

With a sigh we continued on slowly again with less interference now that the horde was slain. I started to feel my mind drift a bit as we continued back and down the other path. “Anyone know where they could be keeping Sunset?” 

“Well sence we don’t even know if she is alive then I would say some pit.” Stella the optimest said. “Or if she is still wondering around then she is most likely somewhere ‘safe’.”

“So that limits it to anyplace we haven’t been yet.” I muttered with a roll of my eyes.

“Are you sure it is wise for you two to talk so much?” Lightning asked having perked up more. She must be getting more energy thanks to Health Heal.

“I doubt those things that lie in this… dungeon have working ears.” Stella muttered, which I found amusing that she would say that yet still lower her voice. Caution, maybe, but hey I’m not going to complain about being overly cautious. 

The conversation dropped for a bit as we approached another room, that I cracked the door open. Slowly leaning my head inside I saw an empty room so I opened the door as we all piled inside. “We are getting nowhere fast.” Lightning said as Stella closed the door behind us. “We are just heading in a straight line to wherever hoping we find the hot head along the way.” Damn I wish she was tired again, and didn’t have a point.

“Well what would you have us do Dusty?” Indigo asked leaning against a wooden table. “We have no map and in case you didn’t notice most of the other ways have been destroyed by cave ins.” Huh, wait did they come across more cave ins? I know we came across one but now that I think about it, this dungeon this wasn’t lining up with how most dungeons are laid out in Demon Gazer. This place seems like a long hallway only broken up by rooms.

“I just think we need to figure out how to track her down. You know like a tracking spell or charm?” Lightning muttered rubbing her right arm. 

“Huh that’s not a bad idea, we can do that right?” I said looking around I got head shakes from both Lemon and Indigo. “Stella?” When in doubt ask the most knowable.

“I would need something of hers if I were to do it.” Ahh going Dresden rules of scrying.

“Well guys we got anything of hers?” Long shot but hey, what else we got?

“Not that I’m aware of…” Lemon muttered while looking around before her eyes settled on Lightning. “Would magic work?”

“As long as it is a large concentration or the runes were made using there blood or other parts, such as hair.” Stella allabrated with a shrug.

“Then we might have a way.” Lemon got up and held her hand in front of Lightning.  “We need to use part of your armor.” Lightning looked like she was going to argue but gave up what was left of her right arm armor to Lemon who then passed it to Stella. 

Stella focused on it for a bit before her horn sparked. The sparks circled the armor before the finger moved to point at the door leading further in. “While this ‘Sunset’ used her magic to create this, her magic has long ago drained from it. This is not useable.” With a wave she tossed it back to Lightning. “Unless somebody else has some other way we shall have no other choice but to keep searching.”

My mind reached for an answer, some way to solve this. Koromaru is an option but then I can’t use Demonize without risk of running out of Star Power. Still I don’t have much in the way options. With a shift of power I felt reality change as the four legged creature dropped down. “Hey Koro how you doing?” The dog turned its head to me and gave a big dog smile.

“Oh! Hi friend! Yeah friend sound good!” Koro said happily while running around. “What can I do for you? By the way who are the other two leggers? And what’s that weird smell?” Damn question barrage. Alright time to get down to business.

“I’ll answer everything but first we need your help finding someone.” I kneeled down as they shifted to a more serious expression.

“Someone is missing? I shall find them in no time!” Good, they are ready to go, now for the moment of truth.

“Anyone got something that smells like her? Or has her scent?” I asked reaching out my hand. They all fished around before Indigo pulled out a damaged book.

“I *cough* borrowed this from her room,” Indigo explained passing me the book. “This should work, right?”

I held the book upto Koromaru who took a few good whiffs of it. “Oh yes, yes! I got her, I got her!” With little warning Koro ran to the door and started clawing at it. “This way friends we must get to other friend!”

“Come on guys follow the dog.” I said opening the door and chased after the dog. The others looked around at each other before I left. Soon though I heard I heard the sound of footsteps chasing me. Giving a smile we went forward following Koro only stopping to slay the random ghost or zombie. As time pressed forward we went further and further in. Thankfully I was able to keep the SP gauge from falling below half. My apparent change into a video game character prevented me from getting exhausted unlike the others, beside Stella who was a Demon, who were getting tired.

“Through here!” As we went further down the stone work became newer and looked well taken care of. Which I assume explained the door that looked straight out of a medieval film with its grand interlocking design.

“*pant* How are we going to get in?” Lemon asked heaving from the run here. 

“The easy way hopefully.” I said stepping forward. “Slot two,” As the second blade fell into my hand I felt Concentration ready my next skill. “Here we go, Mars Bane!” With a loud crash the powerful attack took down the door. As it fell down it showed a grand hall with torches down both sides. In the center on a throne sat a skeleton decorated in royal garbs holding a golden staff. “Nope.” I muttered making to back off.

“Welcome intruders,” The skelton said raising his hand as a golden wave was sent forward. I barely had time to summon a my shield as the wave hit, stopping it for a second. The enchantments on the shield starting slowing down the magic. With a wave Demon Slayer was brought forward and the SIVA started eating the magic that the shield couldn’t cancel. “Interesting…” The being mumbled turning to look at the others as more magic was launched. Sence I was busy with the wave I couldn’t see how they did.

“Well this is going great.” Man today is not my day I think to myself as I hear some bodies hit the ground behind me.
> Chapter 20
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Quite an interesting shield and sword you have there.” The thing said as I pushed forward as I felt my feet started losing traction. “One eats magic while the other weakens it.” Okay how did he figure that out so quick! I gritted my teeth as beads of sweat started sliding down my face as my arms started straining from holding back the wave. “I wonder how they would do if I cast another spell?” Crap need to do something soon.

“Bolt!” I yelled as the spear launched from my eye. The spear hit the wall as it acted like rubber bending and straining as the aura spear kept flying. The spear started slowing down causing my breath to stop but thankfully with a sound of breaking glass the wall broke into shards that dissolve into particles. I stumbled forward at no longer having something to push against. Once again I was forced to raised the shield as a green attack hit the surface and harmlessly dissipated on it.

“You are quite interesting. Much sturdier than the others who came before.” It said while one of its hands raised to storck its chin. “I suppose I had better ask why you are here. Are you like the others who came here before? Did you come seeking my treasures, my knowledge, or maybe to try and slay me?”

“I choose D:  None of the above.” I answered looking around before landing on reflective pillar. I see in it Stella and the other laying on the ground still breathing but otherwise motionless. “I was just planning on walking through here. You know treat it as a shortcut. I mean it was either this or try to go over the mountain.” I wave off trying to act casual.

“So you did not know who this place belonged to yet you still walked the halls?” The litch asked sounding annoyed. 

“... I would say yes but that would make me sound more stupid than  usual.” This seemed to amuse the thing as it leaned against its empty hand.

“So how do you think I should deal with you? How would you deal with people who trespass into your home?” As a somewhat proud American I had to clamp down on the first response that came to my mind.

“Well we could work for you,” I suggested trying to play it nice. “Do some jobs and get things done you can’t?” Now most people might try to fight the skeleton but being down most of the party and barely able to stop their opening move has made me a little cautious. I could try summoning someone to help but that would take time I doubt they are willing to give.

Risking a glimpse behind I saw the other three laying on the ground and sense my SP wasn’t going down anymore that meant that Koro was gone… yup can’t fight this thing as I am now. Well I could but it would too dangerous to have the entire party be exhausted. Seeing how things were spiraling out of control I needed to get things heading in a safe direction.

“Now that is an interesting suggestion…” They raised a hand up into a thinking position. “It would be easy to keep track of you too.” Good, good, just keep thinking don’t look at me as I try to Heal. Their head snapped up as there hand raised while a glowing orb appeared between me and Stella. Wait people can do that?! “Quite and interesting spell, what did you intend to do with this?”

“Um… it’s a Heal spell?” Whelp just use the truth. “You know to make sure they aren’t about to die?” 

“It doesn't look like a normal Heal spell.” The orb flew into the bony hand as it hoverd before them. “You are quite interesting, very well I shall take you up on your offer. You shall work off the debt owed by trespassing into my tomb.” Thank you whatever deity I previously cursed! “If you can pass one test,” I take everything back as a massive zombie walked forward. The thing dwarfed me and took up most of the room as it waddled over. “Defeat one of my guards and you may considered the test passed.” As they said this my nerves flew into overdrive as I tried to steady myself for the fight.

“Aw come on now is this really necessary I mean I get the whole test thing but why here? I would hate to destroy anything in here and have to pay off more.” I said trying to get a bit more time to think of something. The room started to become covered in fog and then disappear. As it vanished I saw we were now in a wide and tall arena. “Well I guess this is better…”

My opponent seemed to agree as they let out a roar before stomping forward and waving one of its colossal arms around. Ducking I rolled out of the way as the arm hit the ground and caused shockwaves. Acting on gamer instincts I jumped up and watched as the wave hit a wall causing it to collapse. “Damn boy lay off them Rare Candies!” Turning I transformed Demon Slayer into a shield and raised both of my shields to block a hit coming at me. As the attack hit I felt my knees almost brake from the blocked hit.

Gritting my teeth I casted a Heal on myself while changing Demon Slayer into a drill. “Turn baby turn!” I yelled while using the stored magic in the sword to start tearing into the arm. The creature yelled as it pulled the mangled mass back and turning its entire body trying to crush me. I tried to move out of the way only to find my legs still too numb to move. Letting out an annoyed noise the drill turned back into a shield while I fell forward letting the hit carry me lessening the damage but sending me flying into a wall. Cursing my hand went to the bag and pulled out a ball that my mind informed me was some sort of food. I shoved the whole thing in my mouth as I chewed and swallowed the fish tasting ball. Side note:  I hate seafood.

I felt my whole body refresh as I stood up once more only to feel some energy leave as the once mangled arm start fixing itself. Alright no way around it time for some help. “Mars, I call you forth!” The gate opened behind me as the dragon women appeared.

“Where’s my opponent!” Shrugging my shoulders I pointed forward as a savage grin spread on her face. The chainsaws on her shoulders started buzzing as she flew forward her lizard tail wagging in anticipation. As she took on the overgrown zombie I ran to the side changing DS into a crossbow. I watched as the zombie wave one of its arms hitting Mars. I felt some of their HP deplete but she was still good for at least two more. 

“Mars Bane!” I yelled launching the attack distracting and letting Mars get another hit in. The zombie yelled as the chainsaw dug into it. With a backwards slap of his hand it sent Mars flying as it dug into the ground. “Really!” I yell launching another bolt as soon as it reloaded itself. The zombie pulled a large chunk of the earth up and threw it at me. Barely ducking out of the way I was hit by some debris as it broke upon contact with the ground. Well Mars did need some health back and I wanted this done and over with. “Mars by my command let loose your rage and power! Become the Raging Demon Claw!”

The blue chain on Mars shattered as as she was enveloped by a ball of fire. The ball and the arm of the zombie were cleaved in half as Mars reappeared. Her two chainsaws were gone and in there place was a massive kattana that left a trail of flames as it circled her. Most of her clothes were now gone with only her privates covered by black clothes. Her arms, legs, and tail were now covered in lava with pulsating flames running through them. Her head now had horns sprouting from it along with her once white hair now burning red. The last change was her blue eyes now being red with slit pupils. “Alright now this is what I wanted!” She shouted her voice sounding rougher and more booming.

Once more she rushed forward bringing her fiery weapon down through the rotting flesh. Following behind her I shot another bolt into the regenerating mass. As Mars swung her sword I ducked below as DS turned into a sword as the shield disappeared being replaced by the Fallen blade. Getting within range I swung both forward with another cry of ‘Mars Bane’. As the attacks hit I had DS shift into a Hookshot, guess even tools are allowed, and shot it at a wall. As it sunk into the wall I was dragged away as the bleeding mass swung around what was left of its arms. Mars got hit by one of the flailing arms but thankfully it didn’t do as much damage as last time. I saw Mars fly up as I felt an idea form in my head.

The zombie was regenerating a bit faster so as I shot the hookshot at Mars who grabbed the chain I let the other sword return as I reached into the bag and started throwing bottles at the beast. As the random bottles hit the beast was alite with random burst of explosive water, fire, wind, explosions, and anything else as I kept throwing until I arrived next to Mars. “Hey mind if I borrow your sword for a second?” I asked as she held me up next to her. With a grunt the massive weapon hovered before me as I resummoned the Fallen blade. With a good throw I sent the Fallen blade right at the zombie guard while grabbing the burning blade. As I fell DS turned into a larger weapon while I closed in. With hopefully the final call of ‘Mars Bane’ I swung down and priced right into the thick hide.

The thing struggled as the three blades went off doing multiple times the damage. I smiled while jumping back watching as the zombie could no longer move thanks to the blades holding it in place. Mars then came down like a comet, with their entire body covered in flames, sending up a large amount of dust as they hit the ground. As it cleared Mars returned to my side with her weapon floating to them, DS and Fallen also returned to me just as quick. As the dust settled I saw the mass of flesh that was once my opponent. I heard slow hitting of bones as the fog disappeared and I was back in the throne room. “Well done, well done.” The litch said with a small hint of approval. “I do not know how you summoned another to your side but it is obvious that they are a thing of your power.” With a final nod they waved their hand as the others reappeared, including Sunset. “These were the beings that invaded my temple. As promised I shall release them and you but I shall call upon you when the time has come to repay your debts.” With another wave more fog started covering us. “Now leave and don’t return.” 

This time when the fog cleared we were outside near a tent. “Well good day to you too.” I said before feeling something being carved into my skin. Looking down I saw an intricate seal in my skin. Letting out a tired sigh as I walked toward the tents. “Well time to hope no harem antics happen.” Dragging four girls to bed with one day of no sleep in me. What could go wrong!

“Hey master you got any food lying around?” The now no longer enraged Mars asked walking toward me. Whelp now more could go wrong!