Anon is summoned to land of ponies that is full of danger. Can he overcome the force of evil? Probably not.
This adventure story I wanted to write. It's all simply based on image I found that is the cover of this book. This story will be semi-interactive so please give it read if you are into fantasy stuff.
Artwork is by Vincher Thank you to LordBuckets for link.
Anon is summoned to into Alternate Version of Equestia. Summoned by Twilight Sparkle. An Evil has invade the land and it's up to Anon to Overcome this Evil. CAN HE DO IT? CAN HE STAND UP AGAIN THE FORCES OF EVIL. Probably not but, gonna give it his best shot.
FEATURED: 10/5/20 <3 FEATURED AGAIN: 10/15/20 FEATURED FOR THIRD TIME: 10/18/20 [YES WILL ADD EVERYTIME I SEE IT UP THERE.]
The chamber was dimly lit by cerulean candle light, her heels did click against the ancient stone floor of the hallowed ground. The circle had been burned into the earth by her magic as was part of the ritual itself. The black and gold of her mage robes clung to the slender curves of her body. Purple furred skin felt the chill of the ruins. She didn’t focus on it.
This was her last hope. The last hope her people had. The feathered wings upon her back began to expand as her horn began to glow. She lifted her hands towards the tome that was seated upon a stone pedestal in front of her. The flames of her magical aura engulfed her hands and her horn. Then expanded to the book as she began to utter the words of the enchantment.
“Hear my Voice and come forth from the bends of time. I summon you in my time of need.” Shouting these words. The book began to float in mid-air beginning to spin rapidly on its own.
The light of her magic was soon drowned out by the blinding light that blanketed the books pages. She covered her eyes with her arms as the magic released from the spell, shaking the chamber itself. Loose dust came from the ceiling above as the light began to dim and the candles were blown out. A thud took over the chamber as a voice cried out in an annoyed pain.
“FUCK.” Shouting as he hit the ground. “My back. MY BACK.” His hands were on his lower back now. The sorceress looked down at the creature before her. He was…odd to say the least in her eyes. There was no fur on his body nor did he have any other details of her kind.
This creature was dressed in a three piece suit that was somewhat messy. The red tie was loose and a few of buttons were unbuttoned all the way up. Groans came from him as he finally looked up at the woman before him. “What…?” Asking in a confused tone.
“…A-are you the legendary hero?” Asking with hope in her tone as she stared down at him.
“…Legendary…what? Lady I am an accountant. I am also late for my meeting.” Lifting his arm upwards he looked down at the watch on his wrist that was…shattered. “Ooo great….that's really nice. My morning is just going so swell. First I missed the bus. I couldn’t even eat breakfast and now this.” He looked up at her with an annoyed glare. “You better have some good insurance lady. I better not get some back problems from this weird cosplay whatever thing you are doing.” He expressed as he picked himself off the ground.
“…C-cosplay? Accountant? I am sure I did the spell right.” She walked passed him to the tome flipping through it now. “No…you can only do the spell once! You have to be the hero.” She explained as the other was now looking over the chamber.
“Wow…I have to give it to your art team this set is amazing. It almost looks real.” Rubbing his chin as he took in craftsmanship of the stone work around him.
She tucked the book into the bag on her hip that was strapped to her shoulder. She focused herself walking up to him. “Hero! I am Twilight Sparkle. I am sorry that I have summoned you from your long rest but, Equestria needs you again. Please my people are suffering.” Pleading with him as she walked up.
“….I have to respect your devotion to this role lady but, you and your crew can’t just take people off the street to be in some weird video or something. I need to talk to your manager.” Voicing this to her in a firm tone.
“D-do you perhaps mean the princesses? I am the only one left. The rest have been captured. You are the only one left who can help set them free.” Pleading once more with him.
Arching an eyebrow at her with arms crossed over his chest. “Ah ok. The princesses. RIGHHHTTTT. Haha good laugh. This isn’t funny anymore. If you keep this up I will sue your whole company. I have a meeting that if I am late for they might fire my ass. Now take me back where you got me from.” His tone demanding now as he huffed out his breath. This was getting ridiculous.
“…N-no you can’t go back. We need you!” Reaching out grasping his hand with her own. Holding it rather tightly.
“Hey get your hands off me!” Quickly taking his hand back. “That’s it I am leaving. I will find my own way out.” Almost shouting that statement as he stormed towards the exit.
In a whirlwind of emotions she wanted him to stop. Her horn glowed that small pinkish purple as before. As a barrier of energy appeared before him. He crashed into it face first.
“OW! FUCK!" Shouting this out as he fell to his bottom once more rubbing the front of his nose. Now face to face with a crashing reality of what was really going on. The barrier standing before his eyes. “THE FUCK IS THAT?”
“I am sorry I just need you to listen please.” She begged walking quickly over to him. “You’re not hurt are you?” Asking softly as she kneel down to him. His eyes went a little wide looking up at her. It all began to slowly click in his brain that this might be real. As that thought crossed his mind. Something appeared in front of him.
A blue screen with writing on it. It was transparent and all the lettering was white. It read as follows:
“Anon, Legendary Hero.
Level: 1
Stats:
Str: 10
Dex: 10
Con: 10
Wis: 10
Int: 10
Cha: 10
Please choose your starting class:
Mage
Brawler
Assassin
Swordsman. ”
“The fuck is this.” He said aloud looking it over.
“You seriously can’t see this screen in front of me?” The question was asked for the second time.
“There is nothing in front of you, Hero and…what’s a screen?” Tilting her head in utter confusion. Most of his words had been nonsense to her from the beginning.
His brow furrowed as he stared blankly forward. “Ok then.” He stood up. “I guess I will play along for now.” Stating this more to himself then the woman before him.
She stood up with glee in her eyes. “DOES THAT MEAN YOU’LL HELP?”
“…Get me out of here and maybe I will think about it.” He uttered back to her with a sigh. The screen still looming in front of him from before.
“Right.” She pulled a small torch from her bag lighting it with her finger tips with a spark of magic. “The exit isn’t far Hero.”
“…Stop calling me that. I am Anon. Just Anon.” Replying back swiftly as he followed behind her as she began to lead him through a well carved stone tunnel.
“Of course! With you on our side there is no way we will lose.” The tone of her voice was determined. Which just caused a huff out from the man following behind her.
He shook his head looking down at the screen in front of him. “….Well I guess I will pick this one.” His finger clicked against the screen. Selecting…..BRAWLER. He used to get into fist fights in both high school and middle school so he knew how throw a punch well enough….he guessed. The screen instantly shut itself before opening again.
His Stats had changed to the following:
“Anon, Legendary Hero.
Level: 1 (Brawler)
HP: 50 (+40)
Stats:
Str: 50 (+40)
Dex: 50 (+40)
Con: 50 (+40)
Wis: 25 (+15)
Int: 10
Cha: 10.”
He looked over all of it before another screen popped up beside his stats. It read something in red text:
“Negative Effect Added:
BURDEN OF POWER.”
That didn’t look good. He didn’t know what any of this really meant. He just looked up at the woman he was following. Watching her wings move ever so lightly as she walked. He noticed they were truly real wings. He was so hoping he was in a coma or something. Maybe a truck hit him. Maybe this was a fever dream from eating bad sushi….
“….Alright so can you tell me where I am?” The question had been on his mind the whole time.
“You’re in Equestria.” Stopping herself turning back to him. “You been summoned before haven’t you? This isn’t the first time the book of prophecies has been used….you saved us before well…ponies of the past. It was before my time. Before the princesses took power and the elements of harmony were used.” She explained.
“…..The who and what?” Shaking his head and just looking at her dumbfounded. “I don’t know what any of that is. I've never been here before. Can you explain it to me…try to keep it as simple as you can ok?”
“…Well where we are standing right now is The Tomb of the Alicorns. The book said in ancient times when evil spread across the lands…the Alicorns of old would summon a champion from the book. That’s you. I am a Princess of this land as well. I am the Princess of Friendship. There is Celestia, Luna and Cadance. They're Alicorns as well.” Nodding at him.
“….Right….so that makes you an Alicorn. Is everyone an Alicorn in this….Equestria?” The expression on his face was growing more deadpan by the minute.
“Ooo no. Alicorns are rare. Equestria is filled with all kinds of creatures. Mostly ponies but, there are all kinds of friends to be made. I've never seen anything like you before but, you may just be rare like me.” Smiling at him as she finished.
“….” He didn’t like any of this. Not one bit. “So what are we saving these princesses or something?” Asking with his hands now tucked into pant's pocket.
“Yes, but we have to rescue my friends first. If we do we can turn the tides and save everyone. You see me and my friends were the protectors of this realm but, that was before….she came.” Twilight looked down gripping her torch a little tighter.
“That woman….came with strange creatures we've never seen before and somehow united all our enemies together. Her attack came out of nowhere. She caught my friends before we could use our powers. I was only saved because Celestia bought me time to escape. Luckily I was able to meet up with my master who gave me this book and told me what to do. Now that I’ve summoned you. We can gather my friends. Once we do I am sure we can force Lilith to surrender.”
Anon was simply just deadpan through all of this. He began to walk passed her with his hands in his pockets. “So we just gotta save the magical McGuffins so they can use their magical McGuffin powers on the super evil lady who has taken over the world…..god this is really sounding generic.” Sighing heavily at it all he kept walking.
After walking he heard her heels stomping against the ground. “THOSE MAGICAL MCGUFFINS ARE MY FRIENDS.” She shouted.
Anon turned to her looking puzzled. Seeing tears running down her eyes…and her hands were shaking. Man he had forgotten how bad he was with people even if those people had horns, wings and fur.
“…Listen Twilight I am not-“ The sudden burst coming from the ceiling cut him off as he spoke.
As a thick black mass coiled itself around Twilight’s body restraining her. As whatever this was began to lower itself into the tunnel. Clinging its massive form to the ceiling. Scales covered the thick hide of its body. Ebony in color as two emerald pools stared down at Anon. From what he could tell it was… A GIANT SNAKE.
A screen soon appear to his right giving him a warning:
“An enemy has appeared!
The Black Mamba, Servant of Lilith.”
Keeping his eyes on the serpent as he read. Its body tighten around the prey in its grip. She cried out as you could hear her body tensing from the pressure.
“TWILIGHT. USE YOUR MAGIC OR SOMETHING.” Anon cried sweat beginning to form on him.
“I…can’t……..used it……most of it….to……summon…..y-you.” Gasping that out as the breath was being taken from her by the force upon her body.
Panic. His mind raced with thousands of thoughts. Did he run? Could he run? Should he run? Could he save her somehow? Maybe he could go get help. All those thoughts were suddenly crushed with the blur of motion that whipped against his right side. The force of the blow sending him into the stone wall beside him. Cracking with a thunderous thud. The air left his body as the room span from the hit. It was the serpent's tail that done the deed. He watched it coil back to the beast as he fell to one of his knees.
The screen appeared again:
“Critical hit taken
Current HP: 25.”
He didn’t want to know what happened when his HP hit zero. The thought of his body going splat against the wall in a paint of crimson caused adrenaline to kick in. That was painful. This was truly real now. He felt that. Glaring at the serpent as it was preparing for another strike his body just moved on its own. Fuck it. All he had was his fists.
His fist tighten as the tail swung at him again. He jumped over it towards the serpents head. It struck out at him with dripping fangs. As he just…punched forward. The force of his punch caused the air in front of his fist to be blasted forward the pressure smashed clean through the serpent's head. A spray of green vile went everywhere as the impact kept going blowing through part of the ceiling in the shape of his fist.
The creature’s body went limp collapsing against the stonework of the floor. Uncoiling around Twilight. As Anon landed on his feet. He looked down at his arm his fist was smoking from the might that had been unleashed. The sleeve of his suit had been ripped apart.
“Holy….Shit.” He said staring down at his own arm.
Twilight got to her feet moving part of the body out of her way. “That…THAT WAS AMAZING.” She said elated walking up to him.
“Ya it really….” Again he was cut off by something. A screen had appeared beside him again and read:
“Negative Effect now Active: 5/s
Burden of Power.”
He was confused until the pain began to take over his whole body. Agony. Unfiltered Agony. He cried out in pain as he fell to his knees. It was as if all his muscles were being torn apart then stitched back together. His whole body began to sweat as tears flowed from his eyes. He didn’t hear Twilight as her voice called out as she ran to him. There was only….PAIN.
This lasted for five seconds. Until it just….stopped. Finally Twilight’s words reached his still ringing ears.
“ANON! ANON! WHAT’S WRONG?” She cried.
“I….don’t…..know….” It was all he was able to get out.
“It’s not safe here.” She lifted him up and put his arm around her shoulder as he leaned against her.
It felt sore to move but, slowly they began to head towards the light at the end of the tunnel. Exiting the tomb they were greeted by the cold mountain air. Anon saw for the first time Equestria ….even in the pain he was in. What was before his eyes was stunning. Green filled mountain tops that led to an orange setting sun just beyond the horizon. A massive staircase of stone led down to entrance to forest that lead into the mountains nearby.
“I…I think I can stand.” Anon righted himself looking out at the world before him. He was a city boy, born and raised. He didn’t go out into the wild much and even if he did he doubted it would look like this.
“Thank you for saving me.” Twilight uttered sheepishly. “I….I know you may not be from here but, we need you….I need you. Please….won’t you help me save my home.” She said reaching a hand towards him.
He looked down at her hand then back at the view before him. He let out a deep sigh. He knew he was going to regret his words. “Ah what the hell.” Reaching back and taking her hand she smiled at him.
The screen appeared once more before Anon reading:
“Twilight has joined your party.”
He released her hand the pain finally beginning to fade completely. “So….what now?” Asking her with a curious eye.
“Well…we have a few options. We could go to the nearby village and rest. It’s not far. We could also try to find my master Starswirl the bearded. I have way I can try and contact him….I also heard a rumor before coming here of where one of my friends maybe being held….we’re team now. What do you think we should do?” Asking him also excited to have someone around again.
“Heading to that village sounds like the best idea. I don’t even know this place and I am pretty banged up.” Stretching out his right shoulder as he spoke. It was sore from throwing that punch.
Part of him was kind of….proud? It was hard to explain. He never felt that kind of power before. What came after it wasn’t something he wanted to feel again though. The look on Twilight’s face was pure excitement. Which meant trouble for him. They walked together down those long steps into the forest.
She found the dirt path that had brought her to the tomb. They were surrounded by tall pine trees that stretched above them. Blocking out the sun’s rays. Anon took this time to open that screen again. He had figured out that if he tapped the air in front of him it would come up. This…menu had a number of things on it that were labeled:
“Stats, Skils & Effects, Equipment and Party.”
Clicking Stats showed both his and Twilight’s Stats:
“Twilight Sparkle, Princess of Friendship and Magic.
Level: 50
HP: 150
MP: 400
Current MP: 20
Stats:
Str: 60
Dex: 110
Con: 85
Wis: 170
Int: 250
Cha: 110.
Anon tried to talk to Twilight about these screens but, she truly said she couldn’t see anything. She said maybe it had something to do with his status as a hero. He also noticed his HP was recovering by itself. He was currently at 30 HP with it slowly increasing after a little while of walking. This was also happening to Twilight's MP. It was good to know he could recover it. He could also feel his body recovering from the pain physically.
He was still weirded out by all of this. Part of him wanted to believe his getting hit by truck theory while the other part of him wanted to give into the fantasy of it all. A wave of nostalgia attempted to wash over him but, he shook it from his mind.
“How….fucked are we? Do we have anyone that can help us…. like an army.” Finally breaking the silence that the two had been in as they had been walking.
“….Not that I know of without the princesses or me and my friends…not many have the power to resist her. She controls most of Equestria. She stomps out any resistance quickly if it comes up. Only few places still hold out against her forces without help they will….” She stopped herself shaking her head. “No. We'll help them as soon as we rescue everyone.”
That wasn’t what he wanted to hear. If this was real…he was pretty sure he was gonna die. He just groaned out closing the menu in front of him. “…Ok….so who or what is this Lilith person?” Asking his next question to the princess.
“….I don’t know. No one knows. We've never seen anything like her before. Her form is kind of like your’s but, it's different. She's pale and…she has this weight to her that sucks all the life out of where she walks. I only saw her for a moment as she….” Again she stopped herself. “L-look up ahead.” She pointed towards the end of the dirt road.
Anon stopped himself seeing in the distance what looked to be log cabins. Quite a few of them built into a small clearing in the woods. Twilight smiled. “That’s North peak Village. They're a wonderful group of Earth Ponies that help me make it up to the tomb.” She explained happily.
“…Earth Ponies?” He asked.
“Ooo right. Umm….you see ponies are broken into four types. Earth ponies who are strong in body and good with nature. Pegasi who can control weather and have wings on their back. Unicorns who have horns and are good with magic…then finally Alicorns like me…who are again very rare.” She explained as they walked towards the entrance of the village.
The two stallions at the entrance had spears in hand readying them for use until there expressions soften at the sight of Twilight. “THE PRINCESS HAS RETURNED.” Shouting this back into the village as she gave a wave to them.
The stallions gave an odd look to Anon but, he was with the princess so they welcomed him all the same. Walking into the village square. It wasn’t much. Most were dressed in a rustic garb a lot of the stallions looked much like lumber jacks or men of the forest. A heavier set older woman raced up to the princess. Her hair was grey and in a tight bun on her head. She had a shawl over the long dress she was wearing.
As she walked up a little girl of blue fur and orange mane ran to Twilight. “TWILIGHT YOU’RE BACK.” The girl said excitedly.
Twilight kneeled scooping her up in her arms in a tight embrace. “Hey, Ari. Are you being good for Miss Betty?” She asked.
“She's being a sweet little thing.” The older mare answered. “Seth. The princess has returned.” Betty called out from the log cabin she just exited from.
At this point a rather large crowd was beginning to form around both Anon and Twilight. The crowd only parting for the older man that walked up behind Betty. He was hunched over. He had blue furred skin and his mane was white as snow. You couldn’t see his eyes from the wrinkles that covered them. A thin mustache covered his lips and hung beside his chin with cane in hand he walked up to the Princess.
“Were you able to do it?” The Elderly man asked.
Twilight just smiled extending an arm to Anon. “Yes. I have done it everyone. I have summoned the legendary hero. Together we will save not only you but, all of Equestria.” Shouting this proudly to the village.
Everyone suddenly turned their gaze to the odd creature that had come with the Princess. Slowly hobbling his way in front of Anon. The elder looked up at him. “Is this true sonny? Have you come to save us from the Blight that has gripped us in fear?” He asked.
He felt the cold sweat take over his body as Anon eyes swiftly scanned the crowd that was solely focused on him. He cleared his throat. “Um….” He then stretched out. “Ooo boy am I beat from that walk down the mountain. Hey Twilight why don’t we rest a bit.” Uttering this out to her giving her a glare. She just tilted her head in confusion.
“Ah yes we have an empty cabin over there. We kept it warm just encase Twilight returned.” Betty stated.
“Great. Perfect. LET’S GO TWILIGHT.” Anon stated happily grabbing her arm and beginning to pull her towards the cabin.
“You two rest up! We’ll have a feast tonight in your honor! We will get you when the food is ready! IT’S TIME FOR A CELEBRATION.” Betty cried out as the crowd went into a roar.
Anon pushed Twilight into the cabin first. It was a cozy area with a lit fire place and small couch in the middle surrounded by a few wooden chairs. Anon shut the door behind them quickly. As he raced towards the front windows pulling the curtains shut.
“ANON! That was rude.” She commented with a furrowed brow towards him.
“RUDE!? Twilight why did you tell them all that. I tried telling you this before in the tomb. I AM NOT A HERO. I am an accountant. I do peoples taxes for god sakes.” Quietly shouting back at her.
Taken back by his words she gathered herself. “B-but you stopped that monster. I SAW YOU DO IT.” She stated firmly.
“I don’t know what that was Twilight. Also that punch….REALLY FUCK’N HURT AFTERWARDS.” Just finally laying all the cards on the table for her.
Silence took the room for a moment as Twilight slowly walked over to the couch collapsing onto it. A thousand yard stare on her face as she looked down at her legs. Anon just stood there for a moment waiting for some kind of reply. Twilight hands balled up on her legs. “I…I believe in my ancestors and my master. They put Faith in that book. If that book summoned you that means I have faith in you even if you don’t.” Looking up at him with resolve once more.
Anon rubbed the back of his neck finding it hard to look her in the eye. He knew he agree to help but, this was a lot of weight. The tension of the room was cut by the shouting of stallions. “RAIDERS!!” The warning was given to the whole village.
“LET THEM THROUGH. DON’T RESIST.” The Elder shouted back.
Twilight rushed to the door before she was grabbed by Anon. “WAIT. Let see what's going on first.” He expressed quickly.
He began to pull one of the curtains to the side peering out with Twilight. What they saw now in the square were ten riders on these strange horses. These horses had no flesh only muscle, and had deep crimson eyes. Atop their backs were beings dressed in full black iron plate-mail. All of them in similar fashion but, one. That one was larger then the rest and his armor was different.
His helm had two bull like horns coming off the sides. His chin was exposed under his helm. His flesh was green and he had two tusk like teeth sticking out of his bottom lip. He also had a large black great sword on his back that was peppered with blue runes on it. Carved into the very iron itself. He dismounted his beast in front of the elder.
“I am the Leader of The Black Riders. Varbu the Breaker. We serve General Esdeath. She is a servant of Lilith. YOUR NEW QUEEN.” Shouting this out as he made a small circle around the Elder. Towering over the fragile old man. “Lilith has felt a great distortion to the peace she has given you. Someone has slaughtered one of her beasts in cold blood. We were sent to investigate this crime against the crown. If you have any information speak now!” Shouting to the village as a whole.
Everyone tensed….mothers held their children. The men of the village held their spears tighter but, dared not get any closer to the riders. Varbu taking a good look around turned to the elder leaning close to him.
“Tell them to stand down old man. I would love to burn this place to the ground.” Smirking as those words left his lips.
The elder held his hand up to the warriors of the village for them to loosen their grips on their spears. “We want no trouble. We have not heard of anything or seen anyone new. Please we are but, humble loggers of these find woods.” Uttering calmly but, with a firmness in his tone.
“Hm….” The leader’s smirk soured but, then appeared upon his face again as a thought danced in his mind.
“I see…well then we shall simply use this village to rest for the evening. You will give tribute to your new leaders. We will take your ale, your wood and some of your strong men to work where they are needed. Do this and you will return to your peaceful lives.” Shouting this as he looked down at the old man. “Isn’t that right?”
“….Give them what they need. Don’t cause a fuss everyone!” The Elder answered.
The villagers put down their spears and began gather things for the riders. Twilight watched in horror at all of this. Gripping her own fists tightly.
“Just hold on ok?” Anon said back to her. Trying to think through all of this.
Twilight just looked at him her expression twisting to a resolve once more. “I am not going to sit around and do nothing. I….I won’t do that again.” Stating this to him as she began heading to the door.
“WAIT WAIT!!” He grabbed her arm stopping her in her tracks. “Fuck!” Swearing to himself as he knew what he had to do next wasn’t going to be pleasant.
“Let’s at least be smart about this. We have the element of surprise let’s not waste it. There might be an exit out the back of the cabin. We can flank them.” Anon suggested.
Twilight's eyes almost sparkled like her name sake. “So you’re gonna fight with me?”
“…YA. I GUESS.” He didn’t even believe what he was saying. “It would leave a bad taste in my mouth to let you go out alone. Come on.”
Both of them headed towards the back of the cabin being as light on their feet as they could. Finding there was a door that led to the backyard near the forest. Anon peaked around the corner of the cabin watching as the riders dismounted their horses. They were watching the village people gather supplies from their homes.
“Is it clear?” Twilight whispered in his ear right beside him.
“Ya I think their focused on the villagers for now. We should try to get behind them.” He stated.
“Wait.” She cautioned. Waving her hands in front of her forming a arcane sigil in front of her. As a soft glow then formed around both of their feet before fading.
“This should keep our footsteps quiet as we move.” She smiled.
“..Alright that’s pretty handy.” Stating this as he kept look out. He had started to notice something. His eyes were able to focus and see further then he thought he could. Was it because of those stats? He wasn’t sure but, it was helping to keep track of the riders.
Once he saw an opening. He motioned for twilight to move with him. Darting between the lines of houses that circled the town square. It took a few minutes but, both of them were able to get to the house right behind the group of riders. Varbu was still next to the elder keeping an eye on everything.
“What’s the game plan Twilight? Any way you can just hit all of them with a big spell and make this easy.” Anon asked with hope in his voice.
“…I don’t know maybe. I haven’t fully recovered from summoning you. I could hit all of them but, I am not sure it would be enough to take them down. The more I hit the less power will be behind those hits…and if I use everything and it doesn’t work….” She paused as a small bit of worry carried behind her words.
Great. He was shaking. He looked down at his own fist. Could he handle using that power again? That haunting idea of that red text appearing again was chipping away at his will. Taking a deep breath in he centered himself.
He thought back to all those times in his life he wished he could be the hero. When he was beat down by bullies in grade school for trying to stand up to them. Not having the strength to fight against them. He had strength now but, that fear gripped him. He was never good at standing up for anything. Just always picking a passive route if meant less trouble.
Something was stirring within him. Was it courage? Was it the delusion that perhaps he could be a hero? He didn’t know. He just knew for once…he wanted to act.
“…I will go for the big guy. Can you handle the other ones?” Asking her as a resolve of his own sparkled in his eyes.
“I will do my best. When I attack that should give you and opening.” She stated stepping in front of him.
[I would suggest listening to thiswhile reading next part. I feel sets the scene well]
Her eyes began to glow a burning white with both of her hand outstretched towards the riders. Her hands began to form the same kind of glow as her eyes. As two orbs of pure energy appeared in front of her hands shooting large arrow heads of force that burned across the sky. Seeking out their targets. Each one finding their mark. Impacting each rider and their horses in a small scale explosion of arcane might.
The riders let out screams of pain that quickly drew Varbu's attention.
“WHAT?!” Varbu shouted whipping his head to his men.
Anon didn’t miss a beat. As his feet dug into the earth. He blasted off the ground in a blur of motion moving at speed that he thought not possible for a human being. This closed the gap between him and his target within seconds he was within striking range. Varbu barely had time to look back before Anon was upon him.
Anon was aiming for his stomach. He was worried about attempting to strike anywhere else. He couldn’t afford to miss. He had to make contact with this punch. He knew the stomach was probably more heavily armored but, he fired it off anyway. It…..landed. The blow denting the blacken armor as the force of the impact sent Varbu flying back.
His heels digging into the earth being knocked away by the blow. Tearing through it as he was bashed backwards. Yet….he remained standing even as he coughed up blood against his own armor. Anon in his mind begged him to fall his knuckles were bleeding from the hit against the armor. He didn’t know if he could throw another punch like that. That’s when another screen popped up beside Anon that he could see. It read:
“WARNING:
HIGHER LEVEL ENEMY HAS BEEN ENGAGED.
VARBU THE BREAKER.
”
Varbu's name was in yellow unlike the rest of the text. As that message appeared so did the other message that he so dreaded. The Burden of Power activated. Sending a horrible pain throughout his body. His knees buckled under the intense pain but, remained on his feet keeping his eye on the captain.
Varbu…didn’t fall. He smirked wiping the blood from his chin. As he righted his body cracking his neck. “That was…..stimulating. That’s the first time I’ve actually felt something when someone hit me in these lands.” His right hand reached for his back drawn the massive blade as the glyphs upon it came to life from his touch.
“A human….I have not tasted the flesh of man in so long. Once I am done with you. I will burn this village to the ground. I will make sure to keep you alive until they are all dead.” Uttering that out to Anon.
“ANON!” Twilight yelled beginning to focus her magic once again.
That was until four of the riders upon their horses came barreling out of the smoking craters that her attack had made. All of them with swords drawn. She pushed off the ground quickly taking to the air to get out of harm’s way.
“With a blow like that I can see how you could kill one of our queen's beasts and look at that. Not only do I get to bring the general the head of the serpent killer but, I get the princess the whole kingdom is looking for. Ooo what a lucky day it is for me.” Laughter erupting from his throat.
[Small suggestion before reading this. Put on some good battle music while you read. It really enhances the read]
He was tired.
SO GODDAMN TIRED of being the world’s punching bag. He wasn’t gonna just stand around, and take it anymore. Anon grit his teeth, dug in his heels and tighten his fists. “YOU THINK I'M JUST GONNA LET YOU GET AWAY WITH HURTING PEOPLE. YOU OVERSIZED TIN SOLDIER. BRING IT ON. I WILL MAKE YOU SWALLOW YOUR TEETH.” Shouting with pride at the other as the Burden of Power finally started to end.
“Ooo…ho ho.” A smile painted itself across Varbu's face. “Looks like we got ourselves a live one. You might actually be ENTERTAINING.” This time it was Varbu that dashed forward. He was faster then he looked and this showed in the attacks he unleashed. Gripping his blade with only one hand.
Unleashing a volley of swings at Anon. Anon was able to avoid each swing as he back peddled away. He was fast but, Anon's eyes were keeping up with each swing. Varbu however, only smiled more at this development as he kept chasing Anon. These weren’t wild swings either. They were practice strikes aimed for vital spots on the body.
Varbu wasn’t leaving him any openings to attack. He was barely dodging some of them. In this fury of blows Varbu's next attack was a horizontal slash. Anon went to dodge but, suddenly the strike changed mid-attack. It was a faint. Varbu's left hand gripped the hilt in the middle of the swing sending it straight downward as the runes began to glow.
Anon panicked pushing off the ground with all his might blasting off to the side as Varbu swing came down. Dodging the earthshattering swing. That tore through the ground in a magical slashing wave that cut off a part of the log cabin before stopping. That piece of the roof came tumbling down smashing to pieces against the earth. The land where he had cut was smoking from the amount of power that had been unleashed upon it.
Anon skidded to the ground to Varbu's right taking deep breaths in. Sweat dripping from his brow from both exhaustion and fear. Varbu turned his head putting his sword on his shoulder with a joyful smile. “Well aren’t you light on your feet. You’re not gonna be able to beat me by running away boy-o.”
He knew that. He knew that all too well. He was just catching his breath.
Meanwhile, Twilight was hovering just above the village soaring through the skies. The riders on horseback gave chase firing crossbows at her that had been attached to their saddles. Twilight was dodging in mid-air only turning back to unleash a blast of energy from her palms. However, the riders on their horses were nimble as well dodging the shots she unleashed as they were making a circle around village in this battle.
The villagers watched in both hope and dread. Not knowing how this battle would end. It was the elder hitting his cane against the ground that broke their gaze. “What are you all doing? Is this not OUR village? Are we going to let these ruffians burn down our home? Take our princess and our land?” He asked all of them with eyes that still burned with a youthful vigor.
“OR WILL WE FIGHT TO OUR LAST BREATH.” He shouted.
The warriors of the village let out a war cry as they picked up their spears. A group of them chucking their spears at the riders chasing the princess. Impaling two of four riders that remained on their horses. Bleeding out crimson as they lie still against the ground.
Varbu caught this out of the corner of his eye. “Fuck’n pests.” Venom was in his words as he spoke out.
This was Anon's chance. He rocketed off the ground at the same speed as his first attack. He aimed for the same spot as before. He knew the armor had to be weaken from the last hit. It wouldn’t be that easy this time. Varbu's guard was up. The sword twisting downward as Anon fired off his punch. He used the flat of the blade to guard. The punch impacted the blade letting loose a small shockwave from the clashing of powers.
Both Anon and Varbu were pushed away from each other. Varbu whistled as he felt both his arms and blade tremble from that attack. “NOW THAT IS WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT.” Smiling ever so wide showing off his fanged teeth.
Anon’s body was quaking. The Burden of Power was worse now as it activated. His body had not fully recovered from the last hit. His legs felt like jello. Wincing in pain he barely kept himself up right. He refused to falter.
“Cheeky little thing you are. Don’t worry…..you have my full attention now.” Varbu’s words chilled the air as his stance shifted. His left foot forwards towards Anon, his body facing on its side to him. He raised his blade to his face. Pointing the tip of the sword downward at Anon. Both hands firmly gripping the blade. “I won’t miss this time.” He spoke as the glyphs sparked to life once more.
Anon knew he couldn’t dodge another attack like that. It was all or nothing. Even in the shape he was in, he steeled himself. He lowered his stance as stillness took the both of them. What felt like eons to Anon finally ended with Varbu being the first one to blast off again. Anon met him by dashing forward. They met at the halfway point.
Varbu thrusted his blade towards Anon's face. Anon resolved to take a blow. It was the only way he knew he would be able to land a hit. He narrowly dodged is head out of the way as the sword cut through the meat of his left shoulder. The power it unleashed blew off some of his muscle and flesh. The pain burned his flesh but, he kept his momentum. Swinging his right fist upwards towards the captain’s stomach.
The thunderous boom of flesh hitting metal once again filled the ears of everyone around. The armor around Varbu’s stomach shattered as if it was glass. A clean hit. Hacking up blood once more. Varbu was sent rocketing across the square in a blur of motion. His form breaking through an empty log cabin that was across from them.
Anon collapsed to his knees. The pain was pulsing through every vein in his body as the Burden of Power activated for second time in this exchange. It felt like his body was going to break down any minute. There was a silence that swept over the village as both Twilight and the riders stopped themselves glaring at the building. Was it over?
That silence was broken by a voice. A voice that called out from the broken cabin. “Are you proud of yourself? That actually got me on my knees. You will pay for this disgrace.” Picking himself off the ground as he walked out of the cabin.
The upper part of his armor was beyond repair. He ripped it off as the armor around his arms just fell on its own. He reached up with his free hand taking off his helm. Crushing the metal in his hand in pure fury. His body was something that only an Olympian could match. Not an ounce of fat on him. A deep white scar was upon his chest.
His jawline was strong and his eyes were black as coals. His hair was in tight dread locks that swept down his back. He let out a growl of air from his lungs. Snarling like an animal as his grip upon his weapon was tightened. The runes upon the blade began to bleed into crimson. As that crimson expanded to his body. An aura of magic forming around his whole being.
His body began to grow another foot in size as his muscles rippled and expanded. His eyes turning as red as the runes on his blade. He let out a war cry that shook Gaia’s skin with its fury. “I WILL SHOW YOU TRUE POWER FLESH BAG!!!” He bellowed.
Oddly enough Anon found his footing. Standing to meet the challenge. He wasn’t going to run ANYMORE. His body begged him to stop but, he tighten his fists once more. His resolved began to awaken a power all his own…..
His body felt broken. Barely moving as the weight of his opponent's power came crashing down on him. Even still he felt himself tightening his fists. He was going to die. Twilight was gonna die. The villagers were gonna die. All because he wasn’t strong enough. He never had a backbone until this moment. He wanted to win. He didn’t care what it cost him.
Varbu was already in the motions of attacking. Moving twice the speed of his first rush. The sword was raised high into the air as he was already upon Anon. Not even Twilight could keep up with that speed. Yet, for Anon it was as if time had slowed down. Everything moved in a slow motion as he heard something call out to him.
A voice that had been chained within his very DNA. Locked away by his passive nature. “Are you going to let this weakling push you around like this?” The masculine voice asked. There was a playful nature to the words as they were spoken. “You’re even burden by your own power…..come on. You’re better then this. You finally stopped being a wimp….my blood was wasted on your father but, you…..you are actually showing some potential. Don’t crap out on me now boy.” As the words were spoken….Anon felt something. His body was….light. All of the pain had just disappeared.
Without effort he dodged the slash. Varbu followed up with a fury of slashes, a blur of motion that no one's eyes could keep up with and yet….Anon dodged every SINGLE one of them. Anon didn’t notice this at the time but, the screen did appear again reading:
“SUB-CLASS OBTAINED.
Path of The Demon’s Blood [Descendant of the Ogre]
Negative Effect removed:
BURDEN OF POWER.
Negative Effects Added:
Bloodthirsty
Desire for Strength
Skills Added:
Feral Instincts
Apex Predator
Mark of the Ogre [Activation Skill]
“STAND STILL YOU WORM.” Varbu shouted gripping the blade once more with both hands. The runes upon the blade grew even brighter as he swung downwards. Anon’s arm moved the back of his hand upwards. Hitting the side of the blade forcing it away from him as the blast of force that came from the blade was double the amount from earlier. Cleaving the ground in two as it blasted forward.
Anon pushed off of the ground summersaulting over Varbu with ease. As he landed. He had his back turned to the crowd now watching the battle in awe. Even the Riders had stopped themselves to watch what was unfolding before their eyes. Never had they seen anyone last this long against their captain’s enraged state.
Anon was solely focused on his opponent but, Twilight noticed it. The physical change in Anon’s body. His nails were sharper and his teeth had become much more like fangs. The voice from earlier spoke up again from Anon’s body. Only Anon could hear these words.
“That’s more like it. Your mind set was really weighting you down. You shackled yourself. Was it out of fear? I am a little curious about your growth boy. I will be watching from inside your blood. You are my kin after all….show him what that really means. I’ve given you the greatest power after all…use it.” The voice commanded.
Anon’s body moved on pure Instinct. Taking a strange stance. His feet were shoulder length apart as his arms then stretched out upwards and then wide. Facing towards Varbu. In that moment his muscle tensed ripping what was left of his suit apart. That moment when his back was exposed to the crowd was moment that was passed down for generations by the ponies of North Peak Village.
As the day they saw a demon upon a man’s back. Anon’s back muscles had twisted into a demonic looking face with a wide grin.
The screen appeared again.
“Skill Activated:
Mark of the Ogre.”
Varbu's raged peaked at the sight of his enemy taking such a stance. “YOU DARE MOCK ME. THAT STANCE IS FULL OF OPENINGS. YOU THINK YOU CAN SO EASILY DEFEAT ME. I WILL SKEWER YOU.” Varbu shouted as he took a familiar stance. Pointing the tip of the blade at Anon readying another thrust attack. Building up a magical force within the blade. He would kill him this time. He was sure of it.
Rocketing off the ground Varbu charged blasting the blade forward aiming for Anon’s chest. Anon didn’t move to meet him this time. He stayed on the ground. A smirk appeared upon his face as his fist came sailing towards the tip of the blade. The blade pushed into Anon's knuckle causing a bit of blood to be splashed. Varbu smiled but, that smile soon faded….as the blade snapped in half from the force of Anon's punch.
The punch kept going impacting Varbu's chest dead center. He was sent sailing through the air passed the entrance of the village. He kept going blasting through a number of the trunks of the oak trees as he flew. Everyone was in pure shock for a few moments.
As it was the riders that broke the silence as the two remaining soldiers cried out. “BOSS!!!!” They both raced out of the village towards where their leader was sent flying. Anon felt a wave of calm wash over him as the village erupted with pure joy. Twilight soared over to him landing in front of him. His whole body covered in wounds and dripping blood from a number of places.
“Anon how did you do that….what was that?” She asked.
“I don’t kn….” That’s all he got out before he fell forward his body finally giving out from the strain of battle. He was caught by the princess who was shouting his name as he faded out.
He awoke with a groan but, he wasn’t in the village anymore. He was in some kind of…endless black void. All around him was nothingness. Even the ground was this inky black that he pushed off of. His movements caused ripples in the ground as if it was water. He stood up taking in his surroundings. He spotted a figure in the distance…not too far from him.
It was a woman’s figure in a strange black dress with red accents that hugged her curves. The skin that was exposed was a pale white with red veins that crept across her flesh. Slowly her head turned towards Anon. The face was hidden by a black veil that had a massive vertical red eye stitched into it. The eye began to glow as it looked at him.
“I see you.” She uttered to him with a voice as gentle as freshly fallen snow.
Something came over him in that moment. Maybe it was adrenaline left over from the battle. He was feeling different. He stuck his hands in his pockets looking over this figure before him with a grin painted across his face.
“I hope you are at least seeing my good side." The tone of his voice was relaxed in front of this…being.
She wasn’t amused it would seem, turning to fully face him now. That red eye upon her veil stayed focused upon him. It felt as if that eye was trying to dig into his soul. Yet something in his very blood also enjoyed the idea of a challenge. This wasn’t like him. Yet he found enjoyment in this new feeling.
“Hope is a powerful thing.” The woman spoke. Her voice elegant in nature yet there was a fierceness to it. “When people unite against a common enemy they can form a powerful force. Which is why…” The glare of her eye deepen.“I will use every ounce of my power to snuff out any hope that exists. I will crush it with my full force.” The void under both of them rippled at her words.
Anon stood firm however, something within him was now egging him on to challenge this mighty figure. He could tell just by looking at her….that the strength she had was like an ocean. He didn’t know how deep that ocean was but, now for some reason he wanted to see how far he could push her if it came to it.
“I will give you one chance. Turn over the girl and walk away. Go back to your life. This is your first and final warning boy. Don’t…STAND AGAINST ME.”[She then flicked her wrist as if she was swatting a fly.
A maelstrom of winds blasted forward. Anon tried to hold his ground but, the force was too much. He was launched off his feet into the void above them. He swirled around into the vortex of winds when finally….his eyes shot open. Shooting up from the bed breathing heavily and sweating.
He winced as he felt a pain in his chest. Looking down he saw bandages around his chest and stomach that looped over the shoulder that got wounded. He looked over his body. He was still wearing pants which he was thankful for. Yet taking himself in he noticed his form had changed. His body was toned, more muscles and his finger nails looked more like claws now.
He felt it mentally too. Something had changed. He didn’t know if he should be worried or excited about it. The door to his room came open which caused his train of thought to be derailed. The person who entered shouted in delight. Looking over at the source, it was Twilight.
“ANON YOU’RE WAKE! THANK CELESTIA!” She rushed over to him putting the clothing she had in her hand down on the bed.
“How are your wounds? You were out cold all night.” She explained.
He looked over at the sunlight coming into the room via a window. The sun was just peaking on the horizon. It had to be early in the morning.
“What happened?” Anon asked rubbing the back of his neck. His body had a light ache to it.
“After you passed out. The village called all their doctors in…the ones they could spare at least. They fixed you up and we carried you in here to rest. You slept for close to half a day. The riders didn’t come back. I think you scared them off.” She paused. “What was that power you used? I'VE never seen anything like it.” She asked as the curious nature of her soul came through.
“I…I don’t know. Something just….came out of me ya know. I felt this pull from my body like it knew what to do.” Anon explained the best he could but, it was fuzzy to him.
“Well….” She just smiled. “Some of the women of the village made you some clothes while you slept. Get changed I think everyone wants to thank you.” Her tone was joyful as she patted the clothing and headed out of the room.
He just sighed. None of this made sense to him. He wanted answers to this power and why he was the one that was called here. With that resolve in mind he got dressed. Standing in front of a full length mirror he saw what was made for him.
A large brown trench coat styled like something you see in the old west. A long sleeved button up red shirt, a brown colored set of jeans and leather boots. The outfit fit him perfectly. He had never dressed like this before but, he thought he looked pretty good in it.
Stepping outside the log cabin putting his hand out until eyes adjusted to the light of the morning sun. He saw the crowd of people nearby. All of them began to cheer for him, some coming up to thank him as even Twilight clapped for their victory. It was overwhelming. He didn’t think he deserved all of this really. He was more so…trying to save his own skin and Twilight’s.
“Listen everyone…I am thankful but, I don’t think all of this is necessary.” Anon announced.
The elder stepped up to him with cane in hand leaning against it. “Sonny…you saved us. If it hadn’t been for you that brute would’ve taken our very way of life. You stood up when you didn’t have too. Risked your life for strangers. If that ain’t a hero….well I don’t know what is.” He explained. The crowd agreed with their elder.
Anon just sighed. The Elder walked closer to him. Reaching out an old hand out to him. “We ain’t got much too give you but, take this I have a feeling you will need it more than we do.” Handing over a pendant of some kind. It was a simple black string with a white owl carving looped through it. It looked very old.
“That has been passed down through out the generations of this village. It was said to be given by an ancient spirit of the forest to the first leader of our people. I hope it protects you.” He uttered.
When Anon took it in his hands a screen appeared beside him again reading:
“Item Obtained:
Pendant of the Forest God.
Effect: Unknown
Equip item to use.”
He was curious about the item now but, his attention was brought elsewhere as the guards of the village cried once more. “ELDER, SILVERWIND HAS RETURNED.”
Upon the back of what Anon could only guess was a huge white long legged bird was a hooded rider. A mare with blue skin and a silver mane was upon the animal. She was an earth pony. She was dressed in a green hood and robes that covered up clothing that more match that of a ranger of the wilds. She came to a dead stop in front of the ground. The elder walked up to her waving over to Anon and Twilight to come over.
“You two meet our fastest scout. Silverwind. What news do you bring?” He asked.
“Nothing good Elder.” She turned her gaze to Twilight. “Princess….” She paused. “Princess. I saw one of your friends in Riverdale. The new general of that city was parading the one you call…Applejack around on a metal pole. She looked pretty banged up.” The Ranger stated.
The screen popped up again for Anon:
“Feral Instincts Activated.”
Anon nose picked up on something. A scent coming off the Ranger that wasn’t her own. Something was…off putting about that scent. He couldn’t put his finger on though.
“ARE YOU SURE IT WAS HER?” Twilight shouted to her.
“I saw her with my own eyes princess.” She replied calmly.
“THEN…WE HAVE TO GO SAVE HER.” Twilight said looking towards Anon.
This was the result of the dice roll for this chapter:
As you can see it was 11% I am going to be counting this as a pretty bad failure.
I also forgot to show Anon’s stats last chapter. He did level up a lot from his battle.
Anon, Legendary Hero
Level: 8
Class: Brawler
Sub-Class: Path of the Demon’s Blood [Descendant of The Ogre]
HP: 120 (+70)
Stats:
Str: 85 (+35)
Dex: 85 (+35)
Con: 85 (+35)
Wis: 50 (+25)
Int: 15 (+5)
Cha: 15 (+5)
On to the chapter:
“We don’t have any time to waste. I’ll get us some….” Twilight stated.
“I am not going with her. We should do it by ourselves.” Anon announced to Twilight. His eyes firmly locked on the Ranger before him. Narrowing his glare at her. Her eyes stared back just coldly holding the reins of her mount.
“What do you mean you’re not going with her?” She looked back stopping in her tracks.
“We do this ourselves Twilight. We don’t need her.” Anon crossed his arms over his chest not breaking eye contact with Silverwind.
Twilight stomped her way over to him. Leaning close to his chest. “WHAT’S GOTTEN INTO YOU?” She whispered in a shouting tone.
“She doesn’t smell right Twilight. She smells….wrong.” He answers. The smell was still hitting his nose. It caused the hairs on the back of his neck to stand up straight.
“…You’re going off on a smell?” She shouted out loud to the village loud enough that everyone stopped in their tracks.
She trembled. “My friend. Someone who I have gone to the ends of Equestria with and who has helped me through so much has been beat and tortured. You want me to refuse help off….A BAD SMELL.”
Anon paused. He held to his words. If this had been back when he was first summoned he would have just gone with her. It was just something inside of him refused to walk with this woman. He just gave Twilight a look.
“Princess.” Silverwind called out. “This….creature is not of our people. This is simply an excuse to save his own hide. He may have saved this village but, that may have only been to help himself. He said it himself…he’s not a hero. Come on we will rescue her together.” She said extending her hand to Twilight.
Anon showed his fangs at her words. His blood began to boil at this woman before him. Twilight turned her back to Anon. Accepting the hand that was given to her. Silverwind pulled Twilight onto her mount. She finally turned to Anon.
“I have to go save her. She's one of my best friends.” She uttered weakly as tears ran down her face. Silverwind pulled on her reins as the creature went into a jog heading towards the entrance of the village.
“TWILIGHT.” He called out. “I WILL MEET YOU IN THE CITY. BE ON GUARD. I PROMISE I WILL BE THERE.” She didn’t call back. She just buried herself into Silverwind’s back.
Anon stared down at the pendent given to him by the elder. He felt the call of the forest as he looked at it. He needed answers. He walked straight back to the elder who was having discussions with a few of the village folk.
“Sorry to bug ya but, um….I will be meeting up with Twilight later do you mind me staying here with you all for a bit? Also…can you tell me more about this pendent?” He asked
“Hm. Well mostly it was handed down by our people as a good luck charm but, legend has it that if some pony walks into the forest wearing that on the night when the moon is highest they will have an encounter. An encounter with the spirit that guards these lands. You may just be in luck as well…the moon will be at its highest the evening after next.” The Elder explained stroking his beard.
“And how long does it take to get to Riverdale from here?” Asking the Elder next.
“On a good mount perhaps a day and a half.” The Elder explained as well.
Anon steeled himself, he needed answers. He spent the rest of that day helping the villagers with chores and other tasks. Asking them of this world. They explain the three tribes of ponies and their roles. They explain the ruling class to him. When asked where they were. They didn’t know. Twilight was the only princess they had seen since this whole mess started.
He drank with the villagers that evening. He found their way of life to be simple but, pure. He looked towards the sky seeing the moon closer to the middle of the sky. He sipped his drink calmly. He went to bed that evening not finding much rest. His dreams were nothingness. He just found himself worrying for himself and Twilight.
The Next day was much the same. He helped the villagers with their work as he was coming back with some of the hunters, he noticed everyone was packing up. He walked over to the elder. “What’s going on?”
“Well Anon. We are heading into the mountains. We have an old village there we will be fixing up. It’s not safe here for us. That village is harder to find and easier to defend. It’s harder to get wood but, the safety of my people is more important than anything.” He explained.
Anon nodded. The evening had begun to settle in. A thin mist hung in the forest as the darkness coiled around the woods. He felt the call already even without the pendant on his neck.
“Sonny. Be careful. Legend says that some of the warriors didn’t return from their visit with the spirit. Twilight needs you. The world needs you.” The Elder spoke out.
Anon placed a hand on his shoulder. “Don’t worry. I will come back no matter what.”
After stating that his eyes locked on the entrance to the forest that called to him. He place the pendent around his neck. The eyes of the owl began to glow a deep blue as it found itself around his neck. The screen popped up beside him.
“Pendant of the Forest God Activated.
Enter the Forest to Activate the Effect.”
Finally he stepped into the woods his form was overtaken by the darkness. He soon found himself in total shade as the light of the village faded away. Engulfing around him. The light of the pendent was all he had to go off of as he walked. Soon a path through the trees lit itself. Blue fireflies began to glow in a straight line that he began to follow.
This path soon emptied to a clearing in this forest. A solid beam of moonlight filled the whole clearing. He entered the clearing without fear in his soul. He stepped out into the grass looking upward. The moon held perfectly so this clearing was within its Apex. The pendant around his neck began to shake when it came in contact with the moonlight.
“ITEM EFFECT ACTIVE.”
The screen appeared again. Along with that warning came a rolling mist that surrounded the nearby trees of the clearing. The hairs on his neck stood up as his body tensed. His new instincts felt something high within the trees. He saw motion. A blur of white fur snaking through the trees. He didn’t get a good look at whatever it was.
“What do you seek?” A voiced called out.
Anon was on edge he didn’t know if this spirit was friend or foe. He let out a breath to calm his nerves. “I….” He paused. “I seek knowledge. I want to know why I am here….why do I have these gifts…and what am I fighting? I also come seeking aid from you.” Anon shouted to the trees.
“Knowledge and Aid….is what you seek. Hm.” The voice called out.
The shifting in the trees stopped. A long furred body coiled around one of the massive oak trees in front of Anon. Its body was as long as the trunk of the tree. Out of the shadows came a face that extended downward towards Anon. The face was that of a winter owl with pools of ebony specked with bits of starlight. Upon the head of this face was a set of antlers much like a deer. The face was nearly the size of Anon’s whole body.
“The land you step upon boy is a place of deep magic within its core is a power beyond reason. It feeds this magical land and allows those who live upon it to wield magic. That is what your enemy seeks.” The creature explained to Anon.
Clawed reptilian appendages reached out from under the face. It began to wave it’s digits as a magical aura appeared around them. Soon in the sky above them an image appeared…the image of the woman in his dream.
“She is a conqueror of realms. Much like you she is not of this world. She travels the realms in search of something. Something she believes she has found here. She brings with her armies from realms she now rules.” The creature stated as the image changed to that of marching figures of shadows.
“Beware. Her generals hold great power. Power that in your current state you hold a very small chance of matching. Especially two of them….one of them that holds a tainted holy blade and another who's very rage can shake the heavens themselves.” The warning was spoke but, Anon almost found excitement in this warning.
The image in the sky changed back to the woman from before. “Even as we speak she spreads her roots within the land. Attempting to draw the magic from the core.” The image showed black roots expanding within the earth. “However, the planet fights against her….it will take her many moons to drain the planet…she is impatient and seeks a faster way. She believes the Alicorns hold the key to the core. If she is able to gain this power….” There was a pause from the god.
“She will be unstoppable.” The image faded as it finished speaking.
Anon looked at the ground eyes racing back and forth. “Twilight.” He uttered under his breath.
“CAN YOU SHOW ME TWILIGHT?” He asked
The creature nodded waving its hands once more. As the image of a city appeared. A city of black iron towers waving flags of that same red eye that was upon the veil he saw before. These iron buildings let loose smog and ash into the air. The image zoomed through the city streets until it came to a tavern that went by the name The Broken Stool. Two hooded figures could be seen entering the building.
One of them was Silverwind, the other was Twilight in an illusion based spell that the image allowed Anon to see through. The creature spoke once more. “Her guide will betray her….”
Anon’s fists tighten at the words. He snarled. “WHY?”
“For the same reason many mortals have committed great acts of evil….for love. They have her lover. The general in charge of this area is within that city and has laid a trap for Twilight…that her guide will walk her straight into for all the realm to see.” The creature uttered as this image faded as well.
“I have to get to her!” He shouted almost turning to leave in that very moment.
“That is indeed a path that is open to you.” He was stopped by the god’s words.
“In this moment you stand at a crossroads. Many paths lay before you. You could leave now. Perhaps you would make it in time to save her but, if you clash with that general and her forces…your chances of victory become very slim. I offer you two other paths." One of its claws point towards the mountain above.
"High atop the mountain that hangs over us is a place of spiritual power. Those who enter it may speak with beings that are dead or beings they have a strong connection too. A being of your blood waits for you there to help you unlock even more of your power. It will take some time to get up the mountain. You may not make it in time to save her but, this would even the odds against the forces of that city.” The Forest spirit spoke softly.
“Another path I offer you is more dangerous but, holds the greatest chance of success. I can offer you my blood. Drinking of divine blood could kill a mortal but, if you survive the change in your power will be dramatic. You must decide in this moment what you will do. Know you hold the future of these lands in your palm.”
This is a 97% in my book. I would like to say how I do these rolls is based on DND percentage dices. This means this is a critical success. Let’s see how it plays out shall we:
His mind was a cocktail of emotions. Fear, panic and self-doubt. He didn’t know if he had the strength to do any of this by himself. At least with Twilight he had some backup. He was alone. Alone with the weight of another world on his shoulders. His chest felt heavy. Was he gonna run away again? Ah that thought finally crossed his mind.
The thought that always crossed his mind. Just run away. Don’t deal with it. It’s not your problem. He tighten his fists in anger. Staring up at the god before him who starred back with eyes that knew the secrets of the world. He needed to get to Twilight. He needed to be strong enough to get her out of there. There was no room for fear.
“I’ll take the risk. I want to save Twilight.” Uttering that out from his soul.
The creature before him nodded.
“So it shall be.”
The long body of this god uncoiled from the tree now hovering above Anon. “Hold out your hands.” It spoke as it dragged its nail against its skin. A golden blood poured from the open wound into Anon’s cupped hands. He stared into the pool seeing his own reflection.
“The blood of a god enhances what is already within you. It will consume you if you cannot overcome what lies within.”
The tone was relaxed yet held wisdom.
Anon took a deep breath in before pushing his palms to his face as he began to drink the blood to the very last drop. It burned as he swallowed. His whole body pulsed at once as he gripped his throat. Coughing and hacking as he lost his footing. The whole forest began to spin. As cracks appeared in Anon’s flesh. A golden light pouring out of his newly forming wounds.
Pain took root in every nerve he had. Yet, that was not what his brain was forced to focus on. This blinding light within his body spread to even his mind. He relived moments from his life. From the very beginning. When he just simply watched with a crowd of children as the school yard bully beat up a defenseless kid.
Then fast forward to his high school years. A girl he really liked who he had spent a lot of time with…he never confessed his feelings to her. He just watched as another person asked her out and they simply drifted apart. Again it skipped forward in time to the present day where his boss belittled him for nothing and he just took it saying he was sorry for something he didn’t do.
Finally….he was met with something painful. A woman crying in front of him. His Ex. She only ever asked him to try. He was always emotionally checked out. Always simply going through the motions. All she was asking was for him to try in that moment. He refused….and she ended it that day. As that final memory ended everything about Anon was engulfed in that blinding white light.
He let out screaming wail. As god watched on it began to turn away from Anon. “Yet another who succumbs to themselves.” It stated.
“N….Noo….” Anon voice called out from the orb of light he had become.
“I DON’T……I DON’T WANT TO JUST STAND BY ANYMORE.” He shouted as the wounds of light began to seal on his body as his image became his own again.
Light then exploded from his eyes and mouth expanding into the sky in a pillar of pure white. As the god watched on in awe of what this mortal had done that none other before him could have.
Meanwhile, Somewhere in Equestria.
The older pony cloaked in old robes walked the dirt path. A wooden cane in his hand. His face surrounded by the darkness of his hood. Stopped himself. As he felt something stirring in the magic around him. He turned back looking over his shoulder seeing the bright beacon that now lit up the evening sky above. At the same time someone else felt this distortion.
Canterlot castle,
The pale woman glares towards the moon. Feeling the ripples through the magical force that surrounds her at all times. She digs her blacken nails into the marble throne before her veil tilts over to someone in the shadows of the throne room.
“Cinder.” She calls out. “I have a task for you. Bring the Valkyries.”
The light soon faded as Anon fell to his knees. His eyes going blurry as the god leaned over him.
“I shall aid you the best I can. The rest will be up to you. Believe in yourself. This is your path now.”
The god spoke as Anon finally passed out.
A screen appeared in the void of his eyes while he was out:
“Blessing of The Forest God Added:
-Gain Five Levels Instantly
-Leveling Up has become Easier
-??? (Currently Unknown effect added)
Anon, Legendary Hero
Level: 13
Class: Brawler
Sub-Class: Path of the Demon’s Blood [Descendant of The Ogre]
HP: 120 (+70)
Stats:
Str: 105 (+20)
Dex: 105 (+20)
Con: 105 (+20)
Wis: 60 (+10)
Int: 18 (+3)
Cha: 18 (+3)
Anon found himself waking to the sounds of birds singing and the light hitting his face. He felt grass under his fingers. As he winced from soreness. He found himself blinking awake. He stared upwards seeing a tree top. He felt his back against the bark. He slowly found his footing standing up by bracing against the tree.
He looked forward and what he saw was the city from before. It was…Riverdale in front of him. It looked to be early morning. He saw the smoke of the black towers pouring into the sky causing it to go black just above the city. He felt a whisper on the winds saying:
“The rest is up to you.”
Anon tighten his fists looking towards the city. He wasn’t going to just stand by anymore. He was going to fight. Even if it meant he died…he was going to fight for once in his life. With that resolve he stepped onto the dirt path that lead towards the city gates.
Stepping into the beat of the marching feet. Anon took into the crowd that was heading into the city. A sea of ponies, griffins and even some Yaks. He did find it odd that the Yaks were the only creatures in chains that were being dragged into the city. By what looked to be some kind of group of bounty hunters. Anon didn’t have the time to worry about them.
He had found that it wasn’t just his sense of smell that had been enhanced. It was all of his senses. He could see further then normal. He could hear the heartbeats of the creatures around him if he focused well enough. He was on guard as he walked ever closer to the city. The shadows of the looming towers now draped over him.
That’s when he spotted the group of guards standing in front of the gate. They were checking everyone who entered. Stopping people and even pulling people off in chains that didn’t seem to have the right paperwork. It looked like he wasn’t gonna just walk in through the front door like he was hoping. His glare soon went to the ebony walls that surrounded the city.
He was gonna gamble with it. He lowered himself in the crowd vanishing into it. Before he got on his stomach crawling into the thick grass that surrounded the city. It was just tall enough to cover his body as he crawled through it. He kept his eyes on the patrolling guards atop the battlements. Only moving when he saw the small breaks in the patrols.
Getting to the wall he pressed himself against it. He had crawled far enough to be out of ear shot of the guards at the gate. Only problem was he couldn’t see the patrols up top anymore. He let out a sigh. He was gonna just have to wing it and hope for the best….that was usually his plan of attack at all times. He flicked his hand looking down at his claws.
“Well let’s see if these are worth a damn.” He exclaimed quietly as he then pushed his hands against the metal.
It was like butter. His nails easily dug into the steel with little resistance. He stared at his hand for a moment. That was kind of cool. He then shook his head refocusing himself as he took a sharp breath in and then began to climb. He knew he had to be quick. He moved in a blur of motion hands and feet moving in unity as he climbed. He launched himself up onto one of the battlements.
Landing crouched on top of it almost like a cat in terms of grace. This was…easy for him. He didn’t know how to feel about all these changes to his being but, he'd probably get used to it. As he landed he locked eyes with a soldier who just so happened to be standing in front of the edge he landed on. The guard was dressed in a black military uniform that buttoned all the way down. He wore a black helmet and red scarf around his neck. He had some kind of weird looking metal rifle hanging off his shoulder. Anon just smirked at the lone guard.
“Howdy!” He exclaimed cutely as his fist blurred as it punched forward. It connected with the guard's jaw. Anon heard a crack as the guard's body was spun in place from the impact of his fist. The guard was out cold on the ground. Anon then looked at his own fist.
“Wow that was….really easy.” He hopped down from the battlement onto the metal walk way. He looked to both sides of the path way seeing no one coming from either of the connected towers. He was safe for now. His eyes then locked onto the city. He focused himself closing his eyes.
“Feral Instincts Active.” The Screen stated.
As Anon attempted to zone in on Twilight’s scent…it was a bust. There were too many smells in the city on top of that all the smog in the air was making it even harder.
“It can never just be easy can it?” He asked. “Now what? I don’t have a lot of time and there's a lot of ground to cover.” He leaned over the battlements that faced the city seeing platoons of guards walking around the city. “And this place is swarming…how am I gonna…” He paused then his eyes looked down at the unconscious guard at his feet.
“…..This might actually be stupid enough to work.” Anon then grabbed the guard slowly dragging him to the eastern tower making sure to stay low as he moved.
Once he was at the tower. He cracked the door just a hair to see into the room. He didn’t see anyone just metal walls and stone floors. It was some kind of break area. It had wooden tables and chairs. He quickly dragged the guard into the room. He undressed the guard down to his underwear. He noticed something while doing this…the guard was some kind of elf. He looked human other than the pointy ears.
He didn’t have time to think it over as he put on the guard's outfit then put his own clothing into the guard’s bag. He then took some cloth from the room tying the guard up and gagging him. Pausing only when he heard a sound coming from the man’s ear. He looked over his ear seeing a brass ear piece. He stuck the piece into his own ear.
It was some kind of magical radio or something. He could hear all kinds of chatter on it. He checked himself out luckily this guard was close to his size. He began to head to the stairs of this tower that led down when he heard something on the radio that caught his ear. He pushed his fingers against the ear piece to hear it better and sure enough this activated the magical effect of the item.
“ALL UNITS REPORT TO TOWN SQUARE. REPORT TO CAPTURE POINTS AND AWAIT FOR THE COMMAND SIGNAL. BAIT HAS BEEN SET AND HIGH VALUE TARGET WILL BE ENTERING THE SQAURE WITHIN THE HOUR.”
“Is that Twilight? SHIT.” Anon uttered. He quicken his steps out of the tower. Going down a number of stairs that led to a wooden door. He slowly opened it. Two other guards were standing by the door. He simply tipped his helm at them. They gave a nod to him…it was working for now. He made sure his pace was not faster then a quick walk.
He took to the streets avoiding the bigger roads. They had larger patrols on them. Even still….snaking his way through the alleyways he got a feel for this city. The common ponies of this city had their heads lowered and walked with no passion in their hearts. Even the non-ponies weren’t save. He saw an elven man being pulled from his small home with a little girl crying out for him as her mother pulled her back into the house.
They stomped on him even as he cried out for mercy. Until he was bleeding from his broken nose only then did they slap irons on him dragging him away. Anon felt his fists tighten. He had to let it go. It made his stomach turn to keep walking but, he couldn’t fight all of them alone. This did make his pace quicken. He was heading for center of the city in his mind that is where the town square had to be.
He was right on the money. He saw a clearing within the buildings. The remains of a broken statue of some kind were a landmark. He was heading through a dirty alleyway his boots splashing against brown pools of water.
“SOLDIER!” A voice called out to him.
He stopped himself. Slowly turning to the voice. What he saw at the other end of the alleyway was…a human. He looked human enough besides his size. He was nearly 8 feet tall. He had tanned skin with dark brown eyes. His hair was platinum blonde neatly slicked back, not a single hair out of place on his head. He wasn’t just tall his form was muscular. He was wearing a similar uniform as one Anon had on. Only on his shoulders were three silver stars on each side.
His shadow began to loom over Anon as he walked forward. Anon tighten his fist preparing for what he thought was combat.
“Didn’t you hear the announcement the ambush is about to begin. This is our biggest operation so far since the invasion. I won’t have any slip ups in my section.”The man spoke in a loud commanding tone as he stopped just a few feet in front of Anon looking over his uniform. Spotting a set of numbers on the front of his chest.
“Ah your one of the new recruits that were sent from the north. That’s still doesn’t excuse your actions. Follow me I will make sure you head to the right position. I will overlook this transgression just this once because you’re new. If you want to make it far here with the General. You need to follow your orders to the letter.” Huffing this out as he shook his head.
Anon was just staring up at the large man in front of him. He just nodded. Going along with what was going on was the best play. He could come up with.
“Very good.” The man turned on a dime with ease keeping his hands behind his back as he walked back from where Anon came from.
Anon followed behind closely. He wasn’t sure if he should speak or not. He just…watched. This man before him was so large and it was his gut that told him that it wasn't just his size that made him formidable. He was strong. He didn’t know how he knew this it was just…as if his mind knew it by looking at this man. It wasn’t just him either. If Anon focused enough he could just gauge someone strength.
The hulking figure walked out into the main street heading towards the right side of the main square. He walked towards a two story home that was put together well enough. He opened the back door of this building holding it open for the other. “Up the stairs recruit. All the way to the roof.” He commanded.
He once again was just met with a firm nod from Anon. He walked himself up the steps. This staircase snaked up the spine of the building all the way to a door that led to the roof. He of course went through it. Popping out onto a perfect square of a roof which was odd because it didn’t look like that from the ground level. He glared up seeing a transparent image of a normal rooftop overhead. It was an illusion from what he could tell.
Upon the rooftop were five men. Four of them were in the same uniform as Anon the last one was in more of a dress as the man that had led Anon here. He was much smaller though. A normal build perhaps a little on the thin side. He was an elven man with high cheek bones and a single monocle over his right eye. He had three bronze stars on his shoulders.
The larger man followed behind Anon his heavy foot falls being noted. Anon step to the side and got out of his way. Upon seeing him both the Elven man and the other guards snapped into a salute. Which Anon followed in suit with them.
“T-third rank lieutenant Ira! What do we have the honor of seeing you here today?” The Elven man spoke his accent was heavily leaning towards a European nature.
“Well it would seem one of your men got lost going to his position. I was making sure he got back to the right spot. Make sure he doesn’t get lost again Captain Agis.” Staring down at Anon as he spoke out to the Captain.
Agis looked over at Anon checking the number on his jacket. “……Of course…it had to be you Johnson….the slacker.” He was glaring daggers at this point.
Ira simply turned and walked back down the steps. As Captain Agis stomped up to Anon. “IT’S ALWAYS YOU JOHNSON. Taking your long smoke breaks and being a thorn in my side. You've only been here for THREE DAYS! GET INTO POSITION WITH THE REST.” Shouting this at him.
Anon nodded trying to look scared as he lined up beside the other men on the rooftop. “Everyone. Mr. Johnson here has earned, you a lot an extra cleaning duties this week! I will not tolerate anymore sloppy behavior from anyone of you. NOW. RIFLES UP. The target is about to enter the area. DO NOT FIRE UNLESS GIVEN A SIGNAL BY ME.” He shouted checking his watch.
All of the soldiers snapped into position aiming their rifles downward towards the square all taking aim towards the center platform. Anon quickly copied their actions aiming the rifle downward. As he did a magical transparent scope appeared enhancing his sight like a zoom. He didn’t really need it but, it made it easier to see details at this distance.
There was a mare. A mare with orange fur and blonde mane. Limp against a metal pole. She was missing her right leg and it was only barely bandaged. She wasn’t bleeding but, she was covered in bruises and other tortures. Anon had to swallow back his lunch from just looking at her. The sight also caused his heart to beat faster. If they do that to her….what would they do to him if he got caught? He shook that idea from his head. He had to focus.
Captain Agis put his finger to the ear piece in his ear. “She is here men. FINGERS on the trigger. Always be ready to fire. We're dealing with an Alicorn here.” He announced.
Soon enough Anon did see through the scope two cloaked figures entering the square. One of them rushed up to the mare tied to the pole. He barely saw under the hood but, it was Twilight. As Twilight touched AJ. A third figure stepped into the square. Anon peered at this….new woman.
He began to tremble.
The amount of power she was giving off was beyond anything he felt before. She was a woman with long light blue hair dripping down her back. Her eyes were the same shade as her hair. She was a fit yet voluptuous creature. Her skin was pale but, almost flawless in a way. She was dressed in the same outfit as the captain only her’s was a snow white. The upper part of her jacket was unbuttoned exposing her cleavage and a strange black tattoo near her collarbone.
His instincts warned him of the power this woman wielded. Slowly did she appear behind Twilight and Silverwind. Silverwind pulled down her hood at the sight of her bowing before her stepping to the side. She began to clap for Twilight.
“My word you really are the Princess of Friendship. How terribly dull of you….You must have never waged war before.” She spoke with delight as she snapped her fingers as the illusion over top of Anon’s head faded. But, it wasn’t just him all the inner buildings surrounding the square had platoons of soldiers on top of them aiming their rifles down at her.
Others joined the square. One of them was Ira. Anon piece together these were the other lieutenants. There were six of them in total. He didn’t take in any of their details. He focused solely on Twilight.
Twilight rushed over to AJ kneeling down with her as her horn began to glow. Then…simply faded with no effect. A wicked smile painted the blue haired woman’s face. “What’s wrong? Teleporting not working? You won’t be running away again. We have warred the area. It took a little work but, your people….what do you call them Unicorns? They can be amazing with their magic with the right……….motivation.”
Twilight just looked over at Silverwind. “Why?” Was all she was able to get out of her throat.
Silverwind looked away from her. “Because I have someone I love as well….princess.” Silverwind spoke looking away still kneeling. The blue haired woman who Anon now assumed was the general walked over to Silverwind her hand cupping her jaw lifting it up. Patting her cheek.
“You were such a good pet.” Smiling down at her as she released her jaw. The general drew the rapier on her side. “Now Princess please come with me. There is no need for violence….unless you make this harder on all of us. You need not worry…you will not be killed. Our Queen simply wishes to explain why all this had to be done…you will come to see things her way in time. We all did.” She smiled again.
Twilight leaned her forehead against Aj’s for a moment before standing to her feet. Stepping up to the General. “I won’t let you….HURT ANYONE ELSE.” She shouted as her eyes flashed open becoming pure purple as a RAW magical force exploded from her body into a pillar of energy that stretched skyward. This caused a massive amount of pressure to be unleashed.
“Everyone fall back. I will handle this. Ira order our troops to fall back to secondary positions. I will handle this myself.” She exclaimed as she was only one holding her ground against the pressure that was forced outwards. All the other lieutenants pulled back from the square.
As Twilight unleashed a full blast of energy forward at the General. The General matched it by creating a massive pillar of ice that rose to the sky the impact of the two force releasing another gale of winds. Ira's voice then came over the ear pieces.
“ALL UNITS PULL BACK TO SECONDARY POSITIONS AND AWAIT FURTHER ORDERS.” He barked.
The Captain rapidly began to force the rest of his soldiers down the steps. Anon just watched in awe….and was unsure of what to do.
The clashing of ice and magic blasted across the sky in front of him. The temperature in the air dropped enough to where Anon was seeing his own breath. The rest of the soldiers on the roof began to hustle to the door. Captain Agis turned as he stood at the door. “Private Johnson. We are leaving. NOW!” Shouting that over the explosions of force that were going on in front of them.
The captain exited first. Anon gritted his teeth. “Dammit.” He quickly rushed to the door behind the platoon. He clung to the shadows of the stairwell waiting to hear the others rush out before he went down. He saw the door that led to the inner part of the floor level of the building. It was locked. He kicked it open busting the lock as he rushed into the room.
It was a small brick building for the most part. He rushed past the kitchen and into the dining room. He saw a set of four windows that looked out towards the square. He dashed over to the wall hitting against it. He hid behind it peering out the window to see how the fight was going.
The General's playful expression still held her face as she backpedaled on her heels. Effortlessly dodging the high speed orbs of pure arcane force that were following her. Each one smashing into the earth as she avoided them. They exploded leaving a small crater in the stone work. “Come now princess. This is a rather dull show. Surely you can do better.” She taunted.
Twilight snarled in return, all the hatred she had finally boiled over fueling her magic. Twilight clapped her hands together as hundreds of orbs came soaring downwards. Little meteors of raw mana racing down in the blink of an eye. Yet, they were matched by something that met them half way down. Spears of solid ice which cause the magic to implode on itself upon impact.
The ice rapidly heated from this causing a fog to blanket the sky. Anon wasn’t able to keep his eyes trained on the general for long. This was insane. There wasn’t even a chance for him to shoot. Even as he stared down the scope. He couldn’t find an opening.
The General used the cover of fog to close the distance between them. Twilight let out a pulse of magic to clear the fog around her but, it was already too late. The General was upon her right side. The rapier suddenly became a rush of a thousand strikes. Twilight countered by throwing up a barrier. The impact of the strikes caused it to crack from the physical force being bashed against it.
Twilight was being pushed back but, then she formed her barrier into a spear shape. The General turned her blade to the side blocking it. She was launched by the impact backwards to one of the flat roofs of the buildings nearby. She skidded across it for a moment before stopping looking up at the princess with joy.
“Now that’s more like it princess. That’s how an Alicorn should fight. I never got my chance to fight the other three sadly. I do hope you are not the weakest.” She stated.
“So you’re Esdeath then?” Twilight asked fury still holding her pupil less glowing eyes.
“It seems my name has traveled far.” She gave a bow to Twilight. “I am indeed Esdeath.”
“….Were you the one that did that to my friend?” The question was asked aloud the pain was easy to read in Twilight’s tone.
How quickly did that sadistic smile paint itself over Esdeath’s face. She flicked back to the moments she inflicted pain upon the mare. “Yes. That is my handy work. You would’ve been so proud of her. I am the best torturer in this empire. She didn’t give us anything….even as I sawed ever so slowly through her leg. She cried for you all you know. Whimpering like a child for their mother.” Looking right into Twilight's eyes when she spoke this out with delight.
Anon overheard all of this. He felt sick. What kind of monster was this person he was looking at through his scope? That thought was broken by the screams of rage that barreled out of Twilight’s throat. She covered herself in a magical aura, and then dived bomb towards Esdeath at speed in which Anon couldn’t keep up with.
Esdeath was different. Her eyes shifted from joy to cold and ruthless. Quickly she spun to the right avoiding the tackle as she kneed upwards into Twilight’s stomach shattering her barrier in one hit. She then followed up the attack with a round house kick to her ribs knocking her away into the building beside them. Twilight crashed through the roof of the building all the way to the ground floor.
She instantly soared back up to the heavens. The rage she felt dulled the pain even though one of her ribs had been broken by the kick. She unleashed another volley of magical shots. Spraying like a machine gun as Esdeath simply began to run across the buildings to the right. Avoiding her fire as she moved it across as well attempting to catch up with Esdeath’s movements. Anon watched as Esdeath dashed past his building.
He ducked for cover as the rain of fire broke apart the windows and a chuck of the building he was in. Anon instantly snapped back to cover kneeling down just barely peaking over the lip of the window to see what was going on. He didn't even know if he could call this a fight anymore. He didn’t know what it was.
After sprinting ahead of her volley Esdeath kicked off one of the corners of the building she was running along. She rocketed herself rapier forward towards Twilight. The Alicorn was ready for her this time. Stopping her volley as a massive amount of magical force formed around both her hands. Which caused in turn two huge hands of transparent energy to cup around Esdeath trying to crush her between their grips.
Esdeath formed a shell of ice pushing against the arcane hands but, Twilight's rage was fueling her magic. She pushed it further cracking the ice shell. The smile upon Esdeath's face was that of pure glee. Excitement for finally having an opponent who didn’t just roll over and die. Even as the walls of protection began to crumble around her…that smile upon her face never drifted far. She released more of her power. She froze the magic itself solid causing the hands to become brittle ice in seconds.
Esdeath exploded out of the icy tomb kicking off one of the chunks of ice her rapier once again aimed toward the princess’s chest. Ice formed in front of the blade in the form of a spearhead. Twilight had enough. She cupped her hands together forming a sphere of magic in her hands. Before shooting it out at Esdeath. A large beam of solid force that pushed against the icy spear.
It was a clashing of forces once again. Each of them now in mid-air pushing against the other. Anon saw this as his only chance to help out. He aimed his gun upwards homing in on Esdeath. He scanned her body…where did he shoot? The head maybe? He didn’t think he had enough skill to do that. He aimed down towards her heart it was closer to the center of her mass.
He waited. Esdeath began to push Twilight’s energy back freezing some of her magic as she pushed. “NOW!” He was already aimed. He let the bullet fly. It rung out with a thunderous roar from the muzzle. Arcane energy of yellow color formed around the bullet giving it more speed. Anon was unaware of this effect. It made the fire arms more effective in combat. Esdeath heard the gun shot but, avoiding it meant taking a hit from the princess. Yet….she was still a general. She twisted her frame in mid-air so the bullet would go off course only piercing through the side of her chest away from her heart.
She shifted her gaze towards where the bullet came from. Those icy blue pupils of her’s now locked onto Anon’s form. He trembled he didn’t think a person could move the way she did. She wasn’t human in his eyes. Were all the Generals of this army this strong?
This was the moment Twilight needed. When Esdeath's focus shifted her guard was lower for just an instant. Twilight eyes flared as they began to bleed. She summon forth power beyond her limits. The beam of energy she was blasting forward expanded dramatically. Esdeath snapped back to her but, it was too late she was over taken by the beam as Twilight let out a warcry.
The blast of violet energy sent Esdeath flying through the air. The beam blowing through several houses as it tore through the stonework of the city’s foundation. Leaving behind a scorch mark of a burnt street in its wake. Twilight's breath became heavy as her eyes were now blood shot. She started falling from the sky. She unloaded everything she had into that attack.
Anon dropped his rifle running towards her, sliding in to catch her. He was able to get to her before she hit the ground he cupped her in his arms. “Twilight! Twilight stay with me.” He shouted patting her cheek as she looked up weakly at him just smiling before she went limp in his arms. He let out a sigh of relief but, that relief was dashed by the sudden chill down his spine.
He slowly turned his head to the path of destruction Twilight’s attack had laid out. It was still smoking from the heat of the magical burst. The smoke began to clear. There was no way anyone could survive a hit like that. His eyes widen as he felt heart sink into his stomach. There she was…Esdeath just standing there a few hundred feet from them. Her left arm was smoking a slight burn from her guarding the attack.
Her eyes locked onto Anon the amount of bloodlust coming off her was….almost unbearable. There was nothing but, fear in Anon’s body in this moment. His fight or flight instincts kicked in. Running away from this monster was the only option his mind was allowing him to have. He focused all of his might on this single goal. Survival was his only key to victory.
Kicking off the ground. He activated his skill. The mark of the ogre. Using all the power in his leg muscles to move as fast as he could. Twilight was thrown over his shoulder. He raced towards Applejack ripping her off the pole in one motion and putting her under his arms. He kept running after that zipping and zagging through the narrow streets of the city.
His skill almost deactivated but, he hit it again…over and over again he activated the skill when suddenly a screen appeared beside his head.
“WARNING.
WARNING.
WARNING.
SKILL OVERUSED.”
It warned him yet, Anon kept pushing his skill further. He could still feel Esdeath’s bloodlust washing down his back as his whole form was nothing more than a blur to the people on the streets. In a matter of seconds he was already half way across this city. He only stopped when his legs gave out. The screen appeared again.
“WARNING.
WARNING.
Legs in critical condition due to over use of skill.”
He collapsed against the wall of the alleyway that was away from the main street. He was wheezing his breaths out. His whole body ached as he tried to calm himself still holding onto the two dead weights he was dragging. His legs felt like jello he had never pushed the skill that far. He carefully peaked out to the main street where the people were walking.
He didn’t see Esdeath at the moment. He just sat there letting his body rest against the wall unsure of what to do next when he heard it….a siren blared across the skies. All of the people walking the street quickly raced into their homes and into other buildings that allowed them to enter. As they heard this sound. It had to be some kind of alert. The general’s forces would be upon him he had to get out of here.
Eyes raced back and forth looking for any kind of exit. That is when he spotted it. A manhole cover. He could hide in the sewer and maybe Twilight would wake up. He found himself struggling to stand but, he didn’t have time to feel pain. He just pushed forward. Getting the girls back into their positions on his body as he carried them.
He saw the finish line in his eyes and hope almost filled his soul. Then someone blocked his path, stepping into view. A cold silver stare was upon him. The green cloaked figure raised a hand cross bow towards him. The tip of the arrow now pulsing with sparks of magic as she was aimed dead center for his chest. It was….
Silverwind.
“H-how…not even Esdeath could keep up with my speed.” He bellowed in frustration gritting his teeth at her.
“I didn’t have to keep up with you. I was watching the battle the whole time. I had a funny feeling about it. I guess that feeling was right….just like your's was. I have a tracker placed on the princess's robes. I know where she is at all times. Drop her. I don’t care about the other one. All I need is the princess. You can either give her to me….or I will take her from you.”
The clouds in the sky finally unleashed their tears. The sound of rain filled his ears alongside the crackling of her arrow tip. There was no other choice in his eyes. It was eat or be eaten. The coldness that held her eyes was a sign to him that she was prepared to kill him without a second thought. Anything for love right? He reached his own form of will as he slowly put Applejack upon the ground.
The droplets bounced off her body as it was placed against the cold stonework. He rose up from the ground slowly beginning to walk forward towards her. Twilight still on his shoulder. Those few steps he took his body tensed with every step. He only had a few more moments of power left and then his body would give out. He had to end this within that time frame.
Getting about halfway to her she called out. “That’s far enough. Put her down and back away.” Silverwind called out. He stopped himself when she asked. Kneeling down to the ground. Placing Twilight on the ground. This is what he needed. They were both out of harm's way now. This was the first time in his life…he was fully prepared to take someone else's life.
With everything that had been going on up until this point. He had not really thought about how he felt about killing someone. He was unnerved by the simple fact that his mind was so willing to accept murdering the woman in front of him. Had he changed that much since he had come here? That wasn’t the question he needed to ask right now. He refocused his mind.
As he was now on the ground. He picked up a loose piece of stone from the ground. “BACK AWAY NOW.” She demanded.
Anon answered her by rising leisurely then in a burst of motion he unleashed the stone from his hand. It was fast enough to where it could drill through her skull if it hit her. She snarled narrowly dodging the stone that was aimed for her face. In that moment she looked away. Anon activated his skill again the warning screen flashed.
“WARNING.
WARNING.
Body In critical condition. “
It was now or never. He rushed her. Both fists tightened. Her eyes snapped back to him and unleashed her bolt. It ran through his shoulder, and at the same time he connected with her stomach. He grit his teeth as it pierced his skin. The magical force now being unleashed upon him. He felt a surge of electrical energy throughout his whole body. The impact from his fist caused her to lose her footing. As it made a dent in her stomach.
She was on her knees, coughing up blood the wind knocked out of her from that one hit. He was fading in and out but, he refused to go unconscious. He pushed through the surging in his body gripping onto the side of her head. He took her skull, and bashed it into the side of one of the building nearby cracking the wall. Blood poured from the side of her head.
He gasped for air looking at her. She was twitching from the hit. He thought it was over. That is went he felt another pulse of pain as she dragged a knife into his calf. He howled in pain. There was still light in her cold eyes as she twisted the knife. He then gripped her by the horn. He then smashed his fist into her mouth. He heard the cracking of her teeth and jaw. Fury took over his body as he didn’t even notice the screen popping up in red text.
“Bloodthirsty Activated.”
He just started to beat on her diving his fist into her face with each hit. Blood dripping down from her broken face. As he caved it in. Pulling back his knuckles in rage as his fist dripped with her blood. He snarled only seeing red as he just wanted this woman to….DIE! He was only snapped out of this state by the voices calling out from the street.
“THE SOUND CAME FROM THIS WAY!” Someone shouted.
He looked down at his handy work seeing her still twitching. A light bit of air coming out of her mouth. He didn’t have the time to finish the job. He just raced back to Twilight blood oozing out of his leg from the knife still in it. He just threw Twilight over his shoulder.
He was able to get to Applejack as well holding her under his arm. His vision was solely focused on the manhole cover. He raced to it smashing it open with his good leg as he jumped down into it. The sewer was lit by small torches along the walls. He hit the floor somewhat hurt. Groaning out in pain from the impact but, the adrenaline was helping.
He zigged and zagged through the sewer system putting as much distance between him and the area he jumped down from as he could. That movement ended when the adrenaline spike did. He looked behind him seeing a small trail of blood but, kept pushing forward the two bodies were weighing him down. His vision was spinning yet he kept moving nonetheless.
“Just…got to….make….somewhere…safe….” He uttered out as hit the ground with a thud. Twilight limp body skidded in front of him. He was barely able to push himself up. He began to crawl towards her blood still pouring from his leg.
As his vision began to finally give way. He saw something….someone standing over Twilight wearing a green cloak over their body. A black horn stretched out of the hood. That’s all Anon saw as he gave out from his wounds.
The green veil of energy over her arm began to slowly fade. As she then rose her arm to the light, looking over the healing. Not a scratch was left upon her flawless pale skin. Her blue eyes traced back over to the woman who had healed her. A cute little thing, she had always kept as her secretary. White long hair that was well kept under her black patrol cap, purple eyes that glanced up at the General with a soft smile.
“Is that all you need my lady?” She asked.
“Yes, Lily. As always your medical care knows no equal. You are dismissed.” Esdeath answered.
Lily gave a gentle bow to her superior and began to leave the room. As she did Ira entered as she exited. Giving a sideways glance at her as he always did. He folded his arms behind his back and held his chin high as he stood at attention. He was always the soldier.
“Third Grade LT. Ira reporting for duty ma'am. I have news.” He declared.
“At ease Soldier. Tell me what you found.” She expressed swiftly scowling up at him.
“Yes ma'am! Silverwind was located on the western part of town heavily beaten and barely breathing. The soldier that found her took her to the closest medical center while the rest of their platoon followed a trail of blood. That led to a smashed in manhole cover. They reported a trail of blood that led deep into the sewer system.” He stopped himself knowing what the next set of words would bring.
“And?” Her tone turned icy almost chilling the whole room with her power alone.
“….The trail just vanishes ma’am in a small pool of blood. Someone…was also smart enough to rip out the tracker we had in the princess’s cape. We found it floating down the sewer water away from the trail.” Ira explained keeping his calm demeanor.
Esdeath smashed her fist into her desk causing freezing shards of ice to jet out where her fist landed. “You're telling me…we have nothing on the princess's whereabouts? After of course you allowed an enemy to slip past your usually tight guard.” The General stated aiming her displeasure at him.
“…He scaled the wall with ease. He slip past our guards by knocking out one of our own. He got lucky…the guard he took his uniform from was one of the few I didn’t know. He had just got transferred over here from one of our few northern outposts. If you allow me ma’am. I will take my platoons and hunt him down myself.” Ira words were calm but, as he spoke the hands behind his back tightened into fists.
Esdeath was about to speak again when her door flung open. Lily came in her face looking pale. “Ma’am…SHE sent a messenger for you.” She exclaimed as a creature floated into the room. It looked like some kind of squid only its head was bright red with bone like armor around its lower half. Crimson tendrils dripped down its body as it hovered into the room. Moving through the air as if it was water.
“That is all Ira. Both of you leave us.” The command was harsh as both of them bowed and quickly left the General’s office.
Esdeath righted herself straightening her clothing. As the creature’s head began to glow bright. As an image of…LILITH formed out of black smoke that began to pour out of the creature. The single glowing eye of her veil peering down upon one of her Generals.
“I have heard you had a setback….that YOU allowed the princess to slip away from you.” The calmness of her voice was the most threatening thing about her.
Esdeath stood up from her chair. “Madam I promise you-.”
“Did you have her or not?” Lilith cut her off sharply. Even without raising her voice.
She walked across from behind her desk. “Yes but, I will give chase and I will-”
Lilith tighten her hand slowly as she did a red eye the same symbol as her veil began to glow on Esdeath’s back. She was dropped to her knees in pure agony unable to move or speak as red veins crawled over her skin from the symbol upon her back.
“I don’t want your excuses. I demand results. You know this Esdeath.” She unclenched her hand. Releasing the effect on her General.
“You will refocus your attention towards the North. You will send a messenger to the King of that land. If he refuses to bend the knee. I want you to crush him with all of your might. If he doesn’t bow we will make an example of him and his people. Cinder and her Valkyries will hunt for the princess. I will also be sending you a few of my legions of beasts and one of the sisters to aid in your efforts. I will not leave them a single ounce of hope to cling too.”
Flashing images. A burning field of wheat. Red, Black, White and Yellow all cry out for help yet no one hears their call and they are swallowed…by eyes. A woman stands atop a blood stained hill wielding a white spear. The eyes appear in the sky above her they reflect in her own eyes. Black towers of iron shoot out of the ground like thorns on a rose.
A blonde little girl with metal tubes attached to her whole body open her green eyes staring forward. She weakly holds out a hand towards Anon. “Help….me.” She cries before Anon's vision is filled with those same red eyes as before. They flash into his brain as it then feels like it is melting out of his skull. Then….he awakens.
Panting, and sweating sitting up in the white bed. He takes in the whole room out of panic. He is surrounded by marble walls with blue gems in each corner of the ceiling. It’s a nice room. He grits his teeth in pain from the wave he felt from his shoulder, looking down at himself he has been bandaged up by someone. Lifting up the blanket even the wound on his leg has been covered.
The door to the room began to open. As Anon attempted to snap to his feet just encase but, failed. Wincing as the door came fully open it was….Twilight. Only she was dressed more in casual wear. A pair of purple pants and a white tank top. “ANON!” She shouted seeing him awake as she ran up hugging him.
“OW. OW. OW.” Was all he got out as she squeezed just a little too tight.
“Ooo sorry.” She said pulling back. She rubbed the back of her head as she took a chair and sat next to Anon's bed.
“…Where are we Twilight? I am not dead am I?” He asked stretching out his stiff shoulder.
“We’re in a place my master has control of. It’s actually a fascinating spell that bends space allowing you to create something that is between realms in a small pocket dimension that only exist on a sub-atomic level.” She exclaimed in a bright tone.
Anon went deadpan almost instantly. “…..in English please Twilight.”
“….It’s a really tiny tower he can summon.” She said clearly having done this before.
“Ah ok…how did we get here? Did Starswirl save us?” Anon asked.
“No it wasn’t him. Well…not directly. It was Phantom. I will explain on the way. I was sent to check on you. I was sent to check on you and if you were awake they wanted me to bring you with me. We’re having a meeting to decide what we do next.” She nodded holding her hands behind her back.
“Wait hold on…how long was I out for?” Anon questioned.
Twilight looked away scratching her cheek as she let loose the answer to that question.
“A WEEK! I’VE BEEN A SLEEP FOR A WHOLE WEEK.” He exclaimed.
“C-calm down. You lost a lot of blood and you pushed your body way past its limit. Its a miracle your even alive to begin with.” She paused. She held her arm looking away from him. “I….I’m sorry. I should’ve listen to you…” She began to softly cry. “I just…I don’t know what happened to my friends. I’ve been on my own for a long time now…” She said wiping the tears from her eyes.
“I get it Twilight.” He said taking her hand in his own. “But, I am here for you. You’re not alone anymore. We’re a team now. We got to act like it.” He stated with a firm nod.
She smiled at him nodding back sniffling just a little as she helped him out of bed. His leg still felt pretty sore but, he could walk on it. He was in nothing more than a pair of shorts. She turned her head away as he got up. “H-here. We were able to save your clothes.” She stated.
He took them quickly putting them on as they then moved out to the hallway. It looked similar in design to his room. White walls with blue trimming and those blue crystal orbs on the corner of the walls. They walked slowly for the moment.
“So wait this Phantom guy saved us?” Anon cut her off as she explained that part.
“Yes. It seem Starswirl and him have been working together. Apparently he is indebted to Starswirl after he helped him out of a jam that he got into with Lilith’s forces. He’s a little…rough around the edges but, I think he is really trying to help. I trust my master's judgement more than my own right now.” She said sheepishly.
“I’ve been using my time wisely. Starswirl has been teaching me new spells while we waited on you to recover.” She said pumping her fist.
“Twilight…” She had not talked about something important this whole time they had been walking. “What about Applejack?” He finally broke the ice looking at her. There was no reply she just looked away from him towards the ground. That’s when they rounded the corner.
They entered another hallway that ended with two massive double marble doors with golden handles. Leaning against the wall next to the doors was a stallion. His built was average for a male pony. He was wearing a green cloak. Anon remembered seeing that cloak before he faded. This stallion was a unicorn with a black horn and black fur but, there were small white patches of fur around his neck. He was dressed in leather armor under the cloak with a belt of throwing knives around his chest and a larger knife on his hip.
He stood up right when he saw Twilight and Anon rounding the corner. His golden eyes focusing more on the princess as she walked up. He got a grin on his face. He then walked up to Twilight softly taking her hand kissing the back of it as he bowed. “A pleasure to see you again Princess.” He didn’t even give Anon a sideway glance.
Anon arched his eyebrow at the kiss and his demeanor. Twilight got a little red in the face slowly taking her hand back. “A-ah well t-thank you. This is Phantom, Anon. Phantom meet Anon.” She exclaimed.
Phantom turned to Anon with limited interest. “Charmed. You did make a lot of….noise going into the city didn’t you?” He questioned. “We should all head in before the old goat starts screaming for us like he lost his hearing aid.” The stallion stated with a sigh walking through the double doors.
Anon just slowly looked up at Twilight giving her a look of….really? She just smiled back at him nervously.
“He did save us. Come on give him a chance.” She then walked through the door as well into the room.
Anon just shook his head walking in behind her. The chamber they entered was a large one. A dome like room in the same style as the rest of the rooms he saw. Only there was a large round table in the center of the room. On that table was a display of some kind. A 3-D map that was being projected upwards. The table was surrounded by four throne like marble chairs.
Standing up in front of the map near the northern most chair was…an older stallion from what Anon could see. He was dressed in a blue cloak with a massive white beard that hung down to his chest. He had curly white hair that was hidden mostly by the cloak. He was a unicorn as well. His fur was grey and his blue eyes snapped towards the door as everyone entered.
Using the large wooden staff in his hand as a cane. He walked over towards Twilight and Anon as Phantom just took his seat on the eastern most chair. Anon could hear the hum of the blue crystal that was floating within Starswirl's staff. “You must be Anon. A pleasure to FINALLY meet you. I was hoping it would be much sooner than this but, here we are. I would like to apologize for my student's actions. She sometimes allows her heart to think too much for her. Which can be both a blessing and a curse.” Starswirl stated looking at her. Twilight didn’t make eye contact and just scooted over to her chair which was across from Phantom.
“Not that I am ungrateful for the save or anything sir but, I got to ask. How did you know we were in the city?” Anon questioned first and foremost.
“I didn’t. I saw and felt a powerful release of magic coming from the forest nearby. I had a gut feeling something was going to happen in the city. Perhaps it was a stir in the magical force of this world. Nevertheless Mr. Phantom can move more easily than I can so I sent him. We all got lucky that he found you. Come sit down. We are about to discuss our next course of action.” He nodded stroking his beard as he walked back to the northern chair.
Anon shrugged. He didn’t think he was lying if either of them wanted too they could’ve just easily turned them into Lilith’s forces. Anon took the remaining seat looking upwards. He was seated across from Starswirl now. This was a magical display from what he could see, it was a map of the whole of what they called Equestria.
“Now then thank you all for coming. We have much to discuss. I believe we must strike well the iron is hot. No matter what we do now. It must be done now before Lilith is allowed to let her plans grow anymore.” Starswirl explained as he flipped through a journal on the table in front of him.
“Shouldn’t we wait for Applejack to get here?” Anon finally asked the group.
Starswirl looked to Twilight whom in turn just looked down at her hands. He then turned back to Anon. “We’ve done all we can for lady Applejack. We have fixed her wounds but, healing her leg is beyond our means. We need someone who specializes in healing magic. Whatever they did to her also shattered her mind. Even in perfect health she still has not awakened. I have set a spell to help her heal her mind but, there is no telling when she will wake up or if she will wake up at all. We have to move forward for the time being. Don’t worry she will be safe within this space.” Starswirl stated.
“From the intel that Phantom has collected from the city. We gather that General Esdeath is planning some kind of assault on the northern kingdom that belongs to the Yaks. They’re one of the few forces of the world that has been able to hold its own against Lilith’s forces. However, I don’t think they can hold out forever. I believe it may be in our best interest to offer our aid against this assault. If we help the Yaks now they will aid us in battle against Lilith herself when the time comes. The Yaks are some of the fiercest warriors of Equestria. Even against raw magical might some of them can hold their own.”
“Yaks?” Anon questioned.
“Ah yes I forgot you know not of our world.” He nodded pointing a finger at a snow covered area of the map. It zoomed forward displaying an image of a winter covered land. A large city surrounded by massive wooden spikes as a barrier. He saw Yaks walking in and out of the city. He remembered seeing these creatures before just outside of Riverdale before he climbed the wall.
“I say we leave the brutes to their own devices. This is the perfect opening for us to deal some damage to Lilith's whole army with Esdeath busy we can attack here.” Phantom stated as he spun the map with his fingers before touching a single point on the map. This area of the map was…blacken with massive towers of ebony stone that surrounded a massive purple portal of some kind.
“This is where Lilith is getting all her reinforcements. It’s where all their weird weapons come from. If we can sneak in there and destroy it. We could cripple them for a while. It would make our job so much easier.” Phantom explained leaning back into his chair.
Starswirl stroked his beard looking over the area. He did seem interested. Twilight straighten up in her chair. “What about looking into finding my friends? You said it yourself master. We NEED the elements of harmony to defeat Lilith.” Twilight exclaimed.
“Elements of Harmony?” Anon was lost again. Phantom rolled his eyes at the question.
“They are beings who have defended our lands for some time now. Twilight's friends all hold a single element to them. Combined together their power is near limitless. Twilight is also one of the elements. I don’t believe Lilith can be defeated through normal means. We will need SOMETHING to seal her away or something that can destroy something as powerful as her.” Starswirl said with a heavy sigh as if this was a problem he had been working on in his head for a while now.
“It would seem we all have different ideas of how we should go about this.” He paused looking towards Anon. “Yet one of us has been quiet through it all. I would like to here your opinion on the matter. You are the hero that was summoned by the book even if you don’t believe in it. A magical force may be guiding your hand towards your fated path. What say you Anon? Where should we focus our efforts?”
Chapter 14: The Yaks of Yakyakistan and The Trial by Fire.
Anon sat back in his chair thinking about it all. He looked back up at Starswirl. He wanted to help people. He found the resolve to try this whole hero thing. He might as well give it his whole being. “I say we help the Yaks. We need more allies right? If we don’t stand up to Lilith's plans who will?” He asked out to the round table.
“Well said. I think that settles it for me. Phantom we need a larger force to take down that portal and Twilight…we can’t get your friends back by ourselves. We need the aid from others. We're going to the Yaks.” He nodded to the group. Twilight seem disheartened but, soon found her focus.
“Great I get to smell Yak again.” Phantom spoke out with a sigh.
“Get some winter gear from the closet over there. We leave at once. I have all you need in my bag.” Starswirl spoke out as the group headed towards the room.
Starswirl tapped his staff against the wall as a rack of white clothing shot out in front of the them. A number of different styles of jackets and pants. They all picked out a pair that suited them the best. After putting it all on Starswirl gathered them again. The crystal in his staff began to hum to life as he drew a circle in mid-air creating an arcane portal in front of them.
Now what laid before their eyes was a sea of white as Starswirl headed through the portal. Anon went after him, then Twilight with Phantom covering their flank. They landed at the bottom of a small snowy hill that Starswirl began to climb with staff in hand.
“So not to be an ass or anything but, why didn’t you do that to teleport Twilight to the mountain to summon the hero?” Anon questioned Starswirl.
“Lilith has many MANY talented magic users within her forces. She herself is extremely gifted in the arcane arts from what I've seen and heard. We cannot risk her tracking our portals so we must use them sparingly. If she finds my safe haven then we will no longer have any place to hide from her.” He explained as he climbed.
“….That’s a good reason.” Anon answered back.
There was a cold breeze that sweep over the ground sending a shiver over everyone but, Anon. The screen popped up beside him.
“…Huh that's neat.” Anon uttered as the group walked passed him.
“Oi. Keep up.” Phantom spoke up nudging him forward.
“Ah sorry…so…how did you team up with Starswirl?” He asked Phantom as they walked beside each other.
“…Not that it is any of your business but, if you must know….I was raiding one of Lilith's supply runs. I had done it a hundred times at that point. I guess…I got cocky. I didn’t notice the trap in time and well…the old man just so happen to be raiding the same supply run. He was looking for info on everything. I owe him for saving my bacon. Plus…I really hate that witch. I don’t want to be ruled over by anyone.” Phantom stated as they both moved up the hill.
Starswirl stopped at the top of the hill. As Anon and Phantom crested it. Starswirl gestured outwards in front of them. “Welcome to Yakyakistan.”
What Anon saw was a large city of wooden buildings in the shape of tents, surrounded by a high wooden wall that was made out of darker wood then the rest of it. What caught his eye most though, was two massive wooden statues of Yaks that stood proudly in front of the main gate. Each one had a torch in one hoof raised to the sky, while the other hoof had a shield under it.
Starswirl led the group to the main gate unlike the other city that Anon had been through there wasn’t a lot of traffic in and out of the city. As they head down the snowy path towards the city gates. They were met with two massive figures of muscle and brown fur. Dressed in nothing but, a leather loincloth. Wielding great-axes in their hands. Anon was in awe, these Yaks were close to nine feet tall.
“WHO YOU?” The Yak on the right called out his grip on his ax tightened.
“Ah hello their good fellows. We mean you no harm. I am Starswirl the bearded. This is Twilight sparkle a princess of Equestria. We have come to talk with the great king of the Yaks.” The Wizard spoke out with a gentle bow to them both.
“NO MORE STRANGERS TODAY. YOU LEAVE.” The Yak commanded.
“Please gentlemen. We must see the King it is of great importance to all who walk this land.” He uttered back.
Phantom stepped up to Starswirl ear slowly. “I can make this easy for us if you want.” He stated his horn beginning to glow a faint grey color for now.
“No. It will only hurt our cause with them. The Yaks are proud people they hate trickery most of all.” Starswirl whispered back to him.
Phantom just rolled his eyes at all of this. Both Yaks then raised their axes in a defensive position.
“YOU LEAVE NOW OR YAKS SMASH YOU.” The Yak commanded again.
There was tension in the air as even Anon tighten his fist just encase. Everyone did the same but, Starswirl. The tension was cut by a loud yelp of joy from behind the guards.
“TWILIGHT!!!” A girlish voice shouted as a blur tackled Twilight into the snow. Phantom drew a knife holding it downward towards Twilight. As Anon also raised his fist not sure of what was going on. They only lowered their guard when they saw it was….a young Yak girl.
She had red brownish hair with two large pink beads in her hair that made her bangs into small loops. She dressed in more traditional tribal wear which was a brown shirt and a darker brow skirt. She also had a green scarf around her neck that was tied in the front.
“Yona?” Twilight questioned.
The young yak girl just smiled up at her. As Twilight eyes sparkled with delight wrapping her arms around her. Picking her up from the snow in a deep loving embrace.
“You know her?” Phantom said putting the dagger back at his hip a little confused.
“Of course! How could I forget one of my star pupils from The School of Friendship?” She explained putting the young Yak down on her feet.
“There was a school….for friendship?” Anon asked arching an eyebrow.
“Yes there was! I was the principle. We taught the students how to work together even if they were different from each other. It was working well. The school was on small break when the invasion….” Twilight paused looking down sorrow taking her expression again as she had that thought.
Yona took Twilight's hand softly smiling at her. “No worries Twilight. Yona see friends again soon. Yona know this. Yona believe in good winning.” She then turned to the guards with a huff. “WHY YOU NO LET FRIENDS INTO CITY? YOU LET YONA FRIENDS THROUGH OR I MAKE GRANDMA PUT CURSE ON YOU.” She shouted at them.
The guards looked at each other before firmly stepping to the side allowing the group into the city. They all walked into the square. Anon took in the sight. It was…loud to say the least the Yaks were shouting at each other and playing music. He even saw two of them butting heads with each other over a disagreement then laughing it off after it was done. The place was very rough and tumble to him. He liked it. There was a sense of honesty to it all.
“…Well we got into the loud smelly place. Now how do we meet with the King old goat?” Phantom question keeping his eyes on the surroundings. His guard was still up as they walked through the streets headed towards the center of town.
“Must you always address me in such a manner.” Starswirl stated. “I am sure with enough reason the guards will let us through. We can’t allow ourselves to be stopped by harsh words here.” He stated a firmness in his tone.
“YONA CAN HELP. Grandma is very important lady in village. She is the King’s shaman.” Yona spoke out as she led them to a very large wooden building in the center of the city.
“We’re not really gonna leave this up to a kid are we?” Phantom asked aloud.
“….I trust her. She never let me down before and…she did get us into the city.” Twilight replied.
Phantom found himself wondering already if he was on the right side of things, as Yona led them to the large double doors of the building they were headed too. The guards stood at the ready for a moment but, Yona quickly talked them down explaining she was going to introduce her friends to her Grandma.
“….Yona. Be careful. Other Strangers already here talking to King.” One Guard explained as he opened the door to the grand hall.
After entering the hall they were led up a step of red oak stairs. The hall itself was massive fit to house as many people as they could or that is the way it looked. Two massive tables on each side of the hall with a fire place in the middle of it that was still burning. In front of that fire was a group already speaking with the King.
There black robes were all too familiar to Anon’s group. Everyone’s eyes in the hall turned to the new arrivals. The group talking with the king was none other than….Esdeath’s lieutenants. Well everyone else was in shock. Anon couldn’t help himself, he gave Ira who was already glaring at him a salute which almost caused the giant of a man to step up to him. Only a pink haired woman with red eyes stopped him from doing anything too rash. The person talking with the king was dressed in the same uniform as the others only he had single silver stars on his shoulders. He was young looking maybe in his twenties with medium length black hair, silver eyes and a scar just over his right eye. He had a sword on his hip that had a yellow hilt.
The Yak on the throne seemed indifferent towards the young man who had been speaking to him. He was the biggest Yak Anon had seen so far with pure black fur with only small line of grey fur down the center of his beard. That hung from his chin. He was the most muscle bound of the Yak and that was saying something. He was a warrior. Anon could tell that even without his extra senses. He was dressed in heavily designed leather and hide armor that stretched over his chest. He was flanked by two other Yaks who were standing guard.
Yona was the one who broke the tension in the room as she shouted. “GRANDMA!” She ran up to the only female Yak in the room. A very old looking Yak who was almost as small as Yona. She had a large wooden staff in her hand that had the carving of a bull on top of it. Her eyes were grey and blind but, when she looked towards you it felt like she was looking through you. She was dressed in a number of hides and had some kind of strange animal skull that covered her head.
“Ah my sweet child. How are you? Who have you brought with you? This is not a good time.” The old Yak spoke out.
“Grandma! This is Twilight and her friends. They need to speak with the King Grandma. They said it is important.” Yona spoke out to her.
The old woman looked towards the group focusing on Anon. Her grey eye darted for a moment seeing…something. As wandered over with Yona looking over the whole group as she had done for the other group of Strangers that had come. Starswirl was first to break off walking straight up to the King. Giving a gentle bow to him.
“Great King of Yaks, Slayer of the White Fury and his hounds. The king of the White Mountains. We've come to speak with you. I am Starswirl the bearded and this is Twilight Sparkle. Princess of Equestria.” Starswirl spoke as Twilight walked up to the throne as well. She took a bow.
“It is an honor to meet you.” She spoke softly.
“…Sir. These people are enemies of my General and our Queen. You need to think of your people. My queen has no need to harm your people if she has no need too. All she asks from you is loyalty.” The black haired man looked towards Twilight. “What they offer you will only cause your people pain and suffering.” He stated.
“SILENCE!” The King finally spoke. “KING KOLE WILL HEAR THEM OUT. AS HE HAS HEARD YOU OUT.” He shouted his voice shaking the whole hall with its power. “WHY HAVE YOU COME TO YAKYAKISTAN?” King Kole spoke out.
“We have come to aid you in your fight against Lilith. She is a common foe. Lilith brings tyranny. Even if she does offer peace now…she will only take more from you later. She will keep demanding more of you and your people until there is nothing left. She only craves power and nothing more.” Starswirl spoke out.
The King seem to chew over his words looking towards the other. “Zach. That is what you call yourself. What say you to the pony’s claim?” The King was began to stroke his beard leaning in.
“You are being offered a one-time deal here. Turn these people over to me. Then you will have no other troubles with us. Our Queen will even share more gifts with you for aiding her in this matter. If you refuse…that means war. We have greater numbers. All of your people could be wipe out.” Zach spoke out softly.
The king of Yaks lean back in his throne as the old shaman came over. He looked towards her. “Old Wise Woman. What say you? What future for Yaks?” He asks her bluntly. Everyone's eyes turned to the old woman before them.
“Hm….many paths lay before the Yaks right now. Both of them may lead to many hardships.” She took some old bones from her robes throwing them on the ground before kneeling feeling how the bones landed with her fingers. “The ancients have spoken great king. THEY MUST BE PUT THROUGH THE TRIAL OF FIRE.” She announced to the whole room. The Yaks in the room gasped and began to talk among themselves.
Both parties seemed confused by this. The King stood up from his throne. “THEN SO IT SHALL BE. THE TRIAL BY FIRE SHALL DECIDE THE FUTURE OF YAKS. BY THE ANCIENT LAWS IT IS WRITTEN.” The King shouted as all of Yaks in the room beat their Axes as one upon the ground.
“W-what is the trial by fire?” Twilight asked the old woman.
“In times of great discourse between Yak leaders. A circle of fire would be made and set a blaze. Two warriors would step into the ring. They would fight until one was pushed out of the circle or was unable to keep fighting. There is to be no killing within the circle. You must push your opponent out or knock them out. No more, no less.” She explained. “Both parties must pick a fighter.” The old woman stated.
Both groups huddled around each other.
“Great now what?” Phantom said his expression not at all happy about this.
“I’ll do it.” Anon spoke up.
“Are you sure?” Twilight replied.
“Perhaps I can try and reason with the Yaks first.” Starswirl spoke up.
“If we back out now that means the King might go with them. We have to fight Starswirl. We can’t let the Yaks join forces with Lilith. Phantom you don’t look like someone who duels straight up with someone. Starswirl we need you healthy if something goes wrong…and Twilight if you go in they might try something fishy given how important you are…I have to do it. I am the hero right? This is my job. This is what you summoned me for.” He said softly looking out at them.
“…Alright. We will leave it up to Anon.” Starswirl stated.
“…I know you can do this.” Twilight spoke taking his hand for a moment. Anon just nodded at her with a smirk.
“Ooo great we're leaving the future of our lands to first a child and now to a flaming wrestling match. Joyful.” Phantom commented holding his forehead.
Anon stepped up to the wise woman. “I will fight for us.” Anon spoke out.
The old woman nodded then looked towards the other group that was still debating who to send in.
“Sir allow me to fight. I want to cream him. I will show him what it means to fool us.” Ira spoke up.
“No.” Zach commanded. “This is too important to mess up Ira. We can have the Yaks and Princess on our side if we win. I will do it.” He stated.
“But, sir you’re too….” He spoke out but, was cut off by a glare given to him by his superior.
“I will be our fighter.” Zach spoke out.
Everyone then followed the wise woman outside where the Yaks had built ring of coals about 100 feet all around in a perfect circle. She then began to chant something under her breath as both fighters entered the ring. As she finished chanting the ring suddenly burst into flames this was the signal to start.
Zach took his stance. His left hand held his ebony blade within it. It was a short sword of pure black it was in the shape of a gladius style blade. He had blade pointed toward Anon pulled back to his chest while his right hand pushed forward pointing two of his fingers towards Anon. He had his right foot forward and his left foot back both were shoulder length apart.
Anon would begin to bounce in place…almost excited for the battle as a screen appeared.
“You will begin at the sound of the gong.” The wise yak woman spoke aloud.
The area went silent for a moment waiting for that sound to ring aloud. Anon focused his gaze at his opponent who had already taken their stance.
“No hard feelings if I kick your ass right?” Anon spoke out as he bounced in place getting ready for the battle before him. That rush of excitement soon filled his veins.
“Words are cheap. I am assuming you are one that invaded the city, correct?” Zach replied back.
“Aw you know about little old me? Ya I have to take responsibility for that one.” Anon answered sending a cheeky wink towards the swordsmen.
The swordsman's eyes narrowed. Pure annoyance held his face. “You will pay for disgracing our general like that.” His words had a bitter sting to them much like the howling winter winds that blew around them in this moment.
The gong was sound. It’s loud roar caused the crowd around the flaming pit to become unmoving. Who would make the first move? Neither men moved. Anon had decided to play this defensively for now. He just stood there waiting for Zach to attack. Anon couldn’t keep glee off his face. He was just that excited to fight. He could feel the others strength from here.
“Fine. If you will not come. I will crush you where you stand.” The swordsmen announced.
A pentagram forced in front of Zach’s right hand. Yellow in color that sparked with magical force. As that pentagram forced the hairs on Anon's neck stood up on end. As a ball of electrically energy formed above Zach's head unleashing a bolt from it aimed towards Anon. Anon was already in motion when the bolt landed. Scaring the ground black where he once stood.
Zach kept a volley of bolt after bolt was fired each time a ball formed before it was let loose. Anon was in motion. After-image after image was left in his wake as he moved to dodge each bolt that was slung at him. The crowd watched in as Anon moved to the right circling around the other.
“ANON CAN DODGE LIGHTNING?!” Twilight spoke out in awe.
“He’s not dodging the lightning. He’s moving before they fire off. He’s predicting where they are going to land. That’s the only way he can dodge them.” Phantom corrected her and his eyes focused on the match. Seemingly keep with the flow of battle.
Anon pivoted on his foot blasting off the ground racing towards Zach. He was tired of this long distance game already. He knew these weren’t Zach best. This was child’s play. He wanted the real deal. “Idiot. That’s what he wants.” Phantom stated harshly as Anon rushed in.
As Anon closed the distance. Zach attacked. His sword thrusted forward in a blur of ebony. Yellow runes sparking to life as he did so. Thrust after thrust was sent towards Anon. Each one aimed carefully for a vial spot. Anon kept dodge narrowly escaping the sharp edges of the blade. Zach speed….increased suddenly.
The top of Anon’s shoulder was sliced. A surge of lightning blasted through his body. The pain caused panic. He began to back pelt. Another sphere of lightning appeared unleashing another bolt of electricity this time unleashed at an even faster firing rate. Anon barely escaped becoming like the charred earth where the bolt landed.
Blood dripped onto the ground in front of him as kneel down, his breath already sharp from the exchange. Zach remained calm. Taking his stance once again. Anon was in a tight spot but he couldn’t shake this feeling. This feeling rising in his chest as a gleeful smile painted itself across his face.
Anon rushed towards Zach again pushing off the earth hard enough to crack it. If speed was the game then Anon was more than willing to play it. Zach responded with another flurry of thrusts but, this time Anon dodged every one of them and answered with straight right towards his stomach. Zach blocked with the flat of his sword.
The impact caused him to go soaring back towards the edge of the arena, his heel digging into the earth. Anon just smirked at him. As he blew at the top of his knuckles. “We gonna keep playing around or ya gonna actually try?” Anon called out. “Don’t get me wrong I don’t mind blasting you out of this arena.” Anon teased with a grin towards Zach.
“Don’t get cocky.” That was all Zach answered as he then rushed in himself.
Unleashing a torrent of attacks. A deadly dance of slashes and thrusts with his ebony blade. Anon kept light on his feet dodging around the circle arena. Zach kept the attack going as then the spheres of lightning appeared beside him. Firing off with his sword attacks. Anon focused more on dodging the lightning than the sword.
That soon gave way to small cuts all over his body beginning to show as Zach was beginning to catch him. Twilight watched on in horror. She was keeping up just fine but, it was beginning to look like the gap between Zach and Anon was wide.
Phantom was beside her watching the match closely. “Calm down. It’s not over yet.” He replied to her.
Anon was watching carefully...for his OPENING. Then Zach went for the finishing thrust. Anon stepped in that moment using the back of his hand to parry blow then fired off his right towards Zach’s face. He barely shifted back in time, the fist cutting against his cheek splitting it open blood began to rush down it as Zach put some distance between them.
“Tch...I missed. I was aiming to disfigure that pretty face of your. You're pretty good.” Anon called out. Beaming with joy. Blood poured from his wounds. He could feel his heart racing and vibrations in his fists. This was bliss at it’s finest. This was...BATTLE. Battle with oppenect that could match him. He wanted more of it. What was even better than that? He knew Zach was holding back.
“....” Zach wipes the blood from his cheek with his glove. Staring down at the crimson on his fingers now. “It would seem I have unimpressed you...imposer. That won’t happen again. You just lose your only chance at victory.” Zach commented as a surge of magical energy began to spark off his body in the form of electricity that surged from his very being.
“Ooo really? Just you wait pretty boy...I am gonna send you flying.” Anon announced, gripping his fist tighter.
A wide swing towards the swordsman's face. He pulled back. The fist going wide as Zach backpelted himself. Ah the joy of this. His blood was boiling. The smile upon his face was that of pure delight. Anon was solely focused on this fight. may have been hidden until now. Anon himself didn’t know. Everything else died around him. Maybe this was his blood or perhaps this has always been the case for him. This nature
He had not even noticed the bleed of his own blood from the small wounds on his body from barely avoiding Zach strikes. Zach rushed him again unleashing another thrust towards his legs. A low blow, he was trying to make it harder to dodge. Anon smirked...he was getting to the timing of these thrusts.
The thrust looked like it caught Anon at first. Then that image faded as Anon spun in place dropping an Ax kick into the side of Zach. He was able to block it with his arm but, he went skidding across the ground. Now things were starting to get interesting! He knew that it was almost time for both of them to get serious.
Yet, those thoughts were killed by something. “You can do it Anon! I believe in you.” Twilight shouted from the side lines. Anon flashed back to all. All him and her had done up until this point. It killed any joy he had for the battle. This fight...this wasn’t about him. This wasn’t the time to give into desire….
He needed to focus on winning. A no holds match? He wasn’t sure if he could actually beat Zach. It was iffy at best. He had to make his chance better. He smirked again. He was good at running his mouth when he needed to. Anon began to circle the edge of the ring getting to the point where he was facing right in front of the swordsman.
“You know I really feel sorry for you. Having to work for such INCOMPETENT general all time can’t be easy.” He stated aloud for the whole crowd to hear.
Zach righted himself. Whipping the blood from his lip. Magical energy surged from his whole form. Yellow lightning sparking even harder from his form as stared down Anon with fury now holding his once calm eyes. “What did you say?” He asked.
“Ooo I am sorry….that was a slip of the tongue I guess.” Anon stated, smiling wide for his opponent.
“What is he doing? Why would he say that!?” Twilight said, pulling down on the edges of her hat.
“He’s winning the match.” Phantom replied.
Zach blasted off the ground. He was even faster now. Anon knew he was holding back. He even doubted this was his top speed. Another thrust….this was perfect. Anon grit his teeth. He moved only a few inches out of the way, the blade cutting open his side. The electric surging through the blade impacted his body. He was used to pain now though. Both hands moved in unity. Gripping onto Zach's outstretched arm. Another surge of electric blast through his system. He bared the pain as he slung him forward over his shoulder. The throw was performed as a counter to his thrust. Zach was caught off guard by this. He wasn’t used to fighting under the rules of a ring. Neither was Anon but, Anon goal for battle had shifted from defeating Zach….to winning the match.
“Apex Predator Passive ability Activated:
Resistance acquired: Resistance to Electric Skill Acquired.”
His system menu announced this to him. He let out a heavy breath holding his side as blood dripped onto the snow. He fell to his knees. Zach found himself wide eyed recovering from the snow. His eyes instantly looking up towards Anon. Anon just smirked at him. Zack balled up fist hitting it into the dirt.
“THE MATCH IS OVER. ANON HAS RINGED OUT HIS OPPONENT. THE GODS SMILE UPON HIM. YAKS MUST HONOR THIS!” She smashes her cane against the ground looking over towards King Kole. Who nodded in returned.
The others of Zach's troop walked up to him. He raised hand to stop them from speaking. “...We will honor the agreement. I lost.” He spoke aloud.
“BUT, SIR!” Ira spoke out.
Zach shot him glare. “We are leaving.” He stated firmly. He then looked towards the King. “You do know this means...war.”
The Yak King huffed out of his nostrils. “You tell your general. YAKS ALWAYS READY TO FIGHT.” He stated, beating on his chest with his hand. “Take these strangers out of the city.” He commanded the other yaks. They began to move Zach and other lietuants towards the main gate.
Zach shot Anon a look. “This isn’t over. Your end will be by my sword.”
Anon just blew him a kiss as the flames of the circle began to die out. Twilight rushed up to him full force tackling him into a hug. “YOU DID IT.” She shouted.
“OW. OW. OW….Please not so hard.” He pleaded with her with a cough.
“Ooo right sorry.” She let go of him.
“I thought for sure you were gonna go for a full battle with him…..Good job.” Phantom said walking up. The King of Yaks loomed over Anon now with his guards beside him. “You gave up personal glory for friends….is no small feat for a little thing. You have my respect.” He said beating his chest again at Anon.
“We have not the time to celebrate. Death knocks at our door and we must be prepared to answer it.” Starswirl spoke up looking towards the king and the others.
“Phantom and Anon. You must stay and help the Yaks prepare for War. While I and Twilight will go for aid. You must hold the lines until we return. I have allies I can call upon.” He spoke aloud.
King Kole turned towards the Yaks around him. “YAKS PREPARE FOR WAR!!” Shouted so loud that all of the city heard him the yaks instantly went to work all men and women who were warriors began to set up defenses and ready themselves.
“.....I could be of more use here Master. They need me!” Twilight Pleaded with Starswirl.
“Twilight. We have spoken about this before. You must be kept out of danger. If you are captured all is lost. You’re the final piece Lilith needs to open the door to the center of the planet….all magic as we know it would be lost. The planet itself could die.” Starswirl answered her back.
Twilight turned towards Anon looking into his eyes.
"You should go with him. You're good at rallying people, from what I've heard. He needs you more than we do Twilight." Speaking from the heart, Anon simply tried to convince her to leave.
Twilight looked back at him in silence, biting down on her lower lip before turning away. Starswirl stepped up to Anon. "You must hold out as long as you can. It'll take time for us to get back to you with reinforcements. So hold out till then...no matter the cost." Starswirl put a hand on Anon's shoulder, looking deep into his eyes. Anon nodded with a determination of his own.
"Goodman." Starswirl commented, stepping away. He tapped his staff against the ground uttering in an old language. Arcane runes spread like wildfire against the earth, collecting in a single spot before the wave of energy exploded outwards, creating a swirling mass of energy opening a portal in space itself. He then ushers Twilight to follow him as he steps forward. Twilight turned back to Anon, holding both hands in front of her legs. They were clasped together tightly; she wasn't making eye contact.
"....please just be safe." Those words were weak as she turned away into the portal. He thought for sure he saw some tears running down her face. The portal then closes behind her.
Anon stood up from the ground, looking towards where the portal once was, his hand drifting to the back of his neck. Phantom stepped up to him. "That was a nice fight. I thought for sure you'd be the kind of person to square up to him but, you chose the last glorious path. So I'll give you a few points for that. I need your head in the game now, though. We got to stall until they get back with help. I know the armies our enemies possess. Esdeath will bring everything at her disposal." Phantom turns back to the Yak, watching them prepare. "Even with this many people, I don't think we stand a chance we're outnumbered 10 to 1."
"Phantom... You're a wealth of optimism as always." Not that he didn't have a point but, Anon was trying to look brighter side of life.
"Numbers not matter. Heart matters. Yaks have more heart than any. We crush tiny Ice witch. Yak's strongest." The King had overheard everything beating his chest proudly as he approached the two.
"You can have all the heart you want, but that doesn't matter much if it's pulled out of your chest. We need a plan, something to hold onto. The enemy will probably be upon us in less than a day." Phantom replied.
The Yak King simply huffed at Phantom. "We Yaks have plan. We strike first well they unprepared. Then, in the dead of night, we raid their camp. Hit hard and fast. We scatter then before they have time to counter hit them before they get to City." The King spoke out with conviction as he put one fist into the other hand as if he was crushing a Nat.
"That's insane. We don't even know their numbers. We could be walking dead into a trap for all we know. So I think we should make a small strike force. Maybe just me and you Anon...or at least a small team of Yaks with us." Phantom explained as he looked up as well.
Anon's thoughts drifted for a moment. He would reply with his own suggestion before suddenly his vision faded, collapsing into the ground. Something had taken hold of his mind. He heard many voices call out his name as he fell to the earth, losing consciousness. He felt the impact of the world as everything went silent.
His eyes opened up into the darkness. He was within an empty void, at least above him below him with something different. It was a sea of Bones from all kinds of creatures. Some were even human others were foreign to him that he couldn't even explain what they were. He pushed his hands against the pile of bones to get himself up, looking around, and he saw this pile of bones expanded into the horizons. A thin layer of mist poured out of the bones obscuring the area.
He finally spotted something else. A massive figure obscured in shadows and mist. He could only tell out specific details of them. Their hair was wild, making an odd silhouette. Their form was tall and muscular other than that, he couldn't tell how much else. Until the other figure began to smile, showing off white fangs that looked more Beast-like than human. Laughter erupted from this figure; it was kind of laughs that was pure amusement. Anon found himself quickly taking a defensive stance, both Fists ready-to-fly should this being try anything.
This only seemed to cause the figure to laugh even louder, waving his hands off dismissively as if he was talking to a child. "It's too early for that. You have matured enough for that. You're barely a toddler. There wouldn't be any fun in it. I'm here to offer a warning. That woman you're about to face, she's coming. She's much like me; she enjoys the hunt. She's way above your level. I don't think you'll be able to stop her even with some help. It's a high Gamble." Those words made him snicker. Reveling in the facts almost.
Anon form loosened, eyeing up the other. "I have sense Esdeath before... She is unreal, but what can I do. Maybe we can just stall her until help gets here." Anon spoke out.
The figure was visibly upset by the words crushing his fist against the bones, causing the ground to shake about. "What kind of warrior are you, huh? Are you going to let everyone fight your battles for you? You won't be able to win against her that way. There's an even bigger fish beyond Esdeath, or have you forgotten that part? You were sent here for a reason, little one. The face-off against that great evil. You're one of the few that can step up to her power. She has a lot of friends as well. So it may come down to just you and her. What will you do then?" Asking out in a booming tone.
"...I..." He paused for a moment.
"Unless you get a lot stronger, you won't have a chance against her. Come to the mountain. I can make you stronger. I can give you the tools you need. It'll be up to you after that point in your current state... You aren't even using half of your potential. I would hate for it to be wasted and cut short." The shadowed form spoke out.
"What am supposed to do, abandon them? They won't be able to fight off the Army without me." Anon shouted back. "As you are now, they're dead either way. If you hurry, maybe you can get back to them the time to fight. If you can't even beat one of her generals, what good are you? Are you not some hero of legend? If you want to fill that role, you'll have to make tough choices. It's up to you. The path of my kin has always been their own. So don't disappoint me now." He then snapped one of his thick fingers. The bones gave way from under Anon's feet. He let out a scream as he spiraled down into the void below.
His eyes shot open, looking around and seeing nothing. He was in some kind of an infirmary covered in bandages. He stared down at his own hand...wondering what he should do next.
It wasn't the time to be lying around doing nothing. He felt the sting of some of his wounds. Rushing from his bed, he knew where to go next. Time was of the essence, at least in his own eyes.
He ended up bumping straight into Phantom. "About time you woke up. It's been like 3 hours. So, where are you rushing off to in a hurry? We figure out a plan here." Crossing his arms over his chest as he spoke out to Anon.
This wasn't going to be easy to explain. But, determination was flowing through his veins. "Phantom. I know what you're going to say, but I have to leave. I'm going to go talk to that Mystic woman. The Village Shaman and see if she can teleport me somewhere." Speaking out to Phantom with steel in his gaze.
"You're kidding me, right? We need you here. What could be so important?" Throwing questions back at him with his own resolve.
"You know what, this fight is going to come down to Phantom. No matter what we do to her Army, if we can't stop Esdeath, then none of it matters. I don't think sheer numbers will do it. I'm being called to a mountain. I know where it is. It was near the outskirts where the temple was.
When I first got here." His mind flashed back to the figure that had been called to him for so long.
"That's deep behind enemy lines. You could be walking straight into a trap. So how do you know this isn't some kind of mind game?" Phantom was now leaning against the wall.
"I just have a feeling. I have to do this. I promise I'll be back before the battle begins." His fist tightened, ready to face the unknown.
Phantom just let out a sigh.
He knew that look. He knew he couldn't stop him. "You got to get back to a safe then. Hurry up, you ain't got much time."
(Rolling to see what Phantom does: Above a 50, he goes on recon, below 50, he does not).
(94% Phantom will go on recon)
"I will work on the King. I will take some Yaks and scout out while he works on the defenses.
I can't let you and Twilight have all the fun." Smirking, as he sped off himself.
He burst through the wooden doors of the infirmary and headed out into the cold winter air again. His body immediately adjusted to the environment. He was starting to get used to that effect. He made his way to the old woman's hut. She was on the edge of town near the base of the mountain. Her hut was much simpler than the other buildings around it. He approached slowly, lifting up the tent flap to enter.
The old yak woman was waiting on him with her cane in hand, her blind eyes focused on the entrance of her tent. Anon was about to speak when he was cut off by her. "I know why you are here.
I have felt it in the bones. I have felt many things. Great darkness comes our way. I will warn you now if you are not successful in what lies next... None of us may survive. You were chosen for a reason, you know." She spoke out already grabbed some herbs from her shelf.
He was taken aback by the wise woman. Looked at her as she began to make a small circle in the center of the room with some strange-looking dust. "What do you mean?" He asked, now stepping fully from the doorway.
The old woman chuckled to herself as she began to finish the circle. "The land is alive. It pulled you here for a reason. It believes you possess the strength to combat the great evil we face. But you must be worthy. What you face next is.... difficult. The mountain you seek is a Nexus point we're many lands flow into one. A spiritual place where one may speak with someone across time and space. Your ancestor waits for you. Be warned... He is a true predator. The one who sits upon the top. He could help you... But it could also eat you if you prove unworthy in his eyes."
Anon was already beginning to sweat bullets. He didn't like where this was going. He had never really felt worthy in his life for anything. Let alone something that held the fate of a world. The wise old woman smiled up at him, though. "Worry not what can be. Focus on what is. You can only do your best. As long as you live with no regrets, then that is the best life you have lived."
She spoke out. "Step into the circle."
Anon stepped inside the circle.
He wasn't sure if he was ready but, there wasn't really a choice in the matter. The wise old woman turned her back on him, rifling through one of her shelves once more. Pulling forth what looked like an intricately carved hand-sized bull totem. She handed it to him, which he gladly accepted with a bit of raising his eyebrow. Then, a message appeared from his systems.
"Return Totem Added." The message read.
"This totem will bring you back to my hut when you are done. You must be swift. The shadow fall's soon." He nodded in agreement with her statement. She began to chant, tapping her cane against the ground. Words he couldn't understand, her club's beating became louder, and the room started to spin in place. Her eyes began to glow as then suddenly there was a flash of light that blinded Anon. He felt his feet lift off the ground and then hit rock once more.
He was now at the base of a mountain. A familiar forest was behind him. Staring up at the mountain, he saw a gateway of stone guarded by two bull-like carved totems. He felt an ominous pull towards the cave. He was met by a sharp wind that bellowed out of it. It was time to meet Destiny head-on, for better or worse. He began to climb the mountain. It took him a few hours to get to the top, where he saw the gate trying to move carefully to not be noticed. He didn't know if there were any enemies around. He couldn't risk being spotted.
Once he pulled himself over the lip of the cliff, he was met with Inky black void. No light could pierce the entrance of this cave. He found it hard to move. As if his instincts were scared of something.
Something far beyond any other challenge he had ever faced. Still, he found his feet finally moving forward towards the darkness. Until he was swallowed by it. As soon as he stepped into the mouth of the cave. He found himself in a black void of nothingness.
He couldn't see where he had come from nor where he was going. All he could do was press forward. Until he finally felt something against his feet, something crunched as he stepped forward. He looked down. There was finally some light in the room. It was sourceless but, he could see. What he had stepped in was a pile of bones, hundreds of them. So many that they were covering the floor for as far as he could see.
He looked forward right in front of him. He finally spotted someone. Sitting on top of the bones with a smile on their face. It was a man, but that wasn't how he wanted to describe this person. He was more than that. The figure slowly stood out from the bones. He was only a few inches taller than Anon but, looking at him, he was massive. Monolithic was an excellent way to put it. There was an ounce of sat on his body. It was pure muscle from head to toe. His hair was long red is fire looking like it was more of a mane than an actual pair. He was dressed simply in all black.
"Took your sweet time getting here. You were starting to make me worried. Thought you'd croaked before I got even a chance to see you." He let out hardy laughter. His teeth were pure fangs. The present this man was let off with staggering. He felt his instincts on edge already. He had never felt this before, this kind of weight and what was worse. He knew the other wasn't even trying, even with sweat dripping down the side of his face. Anon still found himself speaking.
"Well, sorry I was a little busy. Trying to save the world, ya know. Now you gonna help me or not?" He mouthed off. The giant of a man laughed.
He was amused, glaring down at the other. "Cocky little brat. Should be careful who you mouth off too. If you want some help, you're going to have to earn it. I'm hoping you don't disappoint me." The man then clapped his hand together as he did so. The whole area around him began to change, sands lifted up from the bones covering them. A wooden fence in a circle, both of them in what looked like some kind of fighting arena with strange kanji on it that he didn't know.
"Defend yourself. You either awaken or be slaughtered." Speaking out with pure glee in his voice.
Anon immediately switch to defense. The instincts were screaming at him... That this fight was suicide. That there was a 0% chance that he would win. This was like the time he faced as Esdeath. A chill raced down his spine. The looming presence in front of him was staggering. It was as if this man's shadow was longer than his body, as if it was big as a mountain reflecting the power within. He took his usual stance. Right fist pulled back, left fist extended forward with his left foot forward. The man in front of him took no fighting stance. He simply placed his hands in his pockets, then he took a single step forward. Even with no stance, there were no openings. Not a single hole in this man's defense. He knew that from watching him grow ever closer. He was consumed by fear, cold sweat running down his spine. As his Ancestor stopped in front of him. Hand still placed in his pockets. They were within striking range of each other now. Anon stuck to his guns. He felt as this was the only way to even land a hit. "Cheeky little brat. Thinking you're some kind grandmaster. Let's see if you can land that counter. I will go slow for ya."
With those words leaving his lips, the left hand of this Brute began to slowly rise into the air, the palm spread open. It began to steadily come down towards Anon fast. Anon was still waiting to get close before a solid straight right flew towards the giant man's stomach.
His right fist collided with something. There was an impact but, what he felt when he hit the skin was... It was as if he had hit a mountain. His opponent didn't even block the punch. He didn't even take out his other hand from his pocket. His left hand then collided with Anon's face. It was even a slow strike. This sluggish slap had enough force behind it to send Anon flying to the other side of the arena. Anon's body crashed into the wooden frame of the arena, splinting the wood. The whole room was now spinning. Everything was Fuzzy within his vision yet, he could still see the hulking figure lethargically walking towards him. Both hands back in his pockets, a relaxed smile upon his face.
"What wimpy punch. Can't even take one either. Don't be a disappointment. You've got my blood in your veins. What's wrong with you? I know it's been diluted but come on. You should be doing a lot more than this." His booming voice was heard clearly even through the pain. Anon let out of gasp of air from his lungs. At least he was breathing again. That one hit knocked all over the air out of him. Was he gonna die here? That thought crossed his mind. His fingers grip the sand as images of Twilight and others burning in a sea of war. That is what got him back on his feet.
His legs were shaking though, he didn't know if he could take another hit like that. Anon's glare was focused on his so-called Ancestor. This did make the other stop in his tracks. His relaxed smile became more of a gleeful one. Showing off those pearly fangs of his. "Now, that's a better look. That's a look someone of my blood should have in their eyes. Not that pitiful excuse of fear. If you're afraid to die, you shouldn't step on the battlefield.
Death is around the corner for all of us who seek the pleasures of battle. Only one can stand upon the top, after all. That's why I want you to succeed. I want to see you meet me at the top. I've been waiting for an exciting opponent." This guy was really starting to piss him off. Was this all game to him? Those are the thoughts running in Anon's head. As he threw his jacket down.
"Mark of the Ogre Activated." The system readout.
As an on the back, muscles twisted into that of a face of an enraged demon. Anon pushed of the dirty dashing toward his Ancestor at full speed. His Ancestor kept his relaxed dance, but the smile on his face never left.....
Meanwhile…
[I am going to roll to see how well Phantom's scooting goes. Above 50. It goes well. Below a 50...it goes poorly]
[78. Not that great but, luck is on your side, readers] Phantom came bursting through the gate, frost clinging to his jacket. Helping an injured Yak through the door. Two other Yaks were behind him who were also heavily damaged, but they could walk. The other Yaks rushed to him, beginning to pick up their wounded. Phantom didn't have time to get treated himself. Even though his lungs were burning, he pushed past the pain rushing towards the King's throne room.
Phantom pushes with all his strength against the heavy palace's doors. Barely having the power to make them open as he collapsed on the ground in front of them. The royal guard rushed to him. He gently pushed them aside. As King Kole steps away from his advisors. "What news you have?" The King got straight to the point, looking over the wounds Phantom had suffered.
"Their army is bigger than we thought... They got wyverns. Ice Elementals and worse...." Look straight up at the King. "Princess Luna is with them... And she's dressed for war." Phantom's words chilled the air more than the winter winds. As all yaks grew silent...and King Kole let out huff through flaring nostrils.
Anon was rushing his Ancestor from all angles, increasing his speed dramatically. He was a blur of motion, appearing in multiple places at once, each time striking out with his fists as hard as he could. His Ancestor's blocked each hit with a single hand catching it in his palm. Until that freehand caught Anon in midair. Gripping the front of his face as the giant of a man slammed him into the ground shaking the whole arena. Anon coughed up blood, tasting the iron in his mouth.
It wasn't even close. How could there be this much of a difference in their strength? He couldn't understand how a person could be this strong. He also couldn't understand why this man wasn't helping others with this strength?
"That was at least better. That demon of yours is too small, though. He's being held back by you. All those fears and doubts. Cloud your mind and spirit. You should focus on getting stronger... Coming more deadly... Reaching the peak. You won't be able to beat her like this. You're running around playing the hero with half measures. You run away from a challenge you think you can't win.
You should revel in this, especially if an opponent is stronger than you." He raised his foot and stomped downward. Anon put his guard up both arms, his bone strength against the weight of the stomp. As his Ancestor kept pushing down until Anon hit something solid at this rate, he was going to be crushed to death.
The foot kept crashing into his chest; even with his arms guarded, it was as if there was nothing there. The ground beneath his back begins to crack under pressure. It was hard to breathe. He coughed up blood as his ancestor offered no reprieve. Was he going to die like this? The images of his past flash with his brain, images of disgraceful defeat.
When bullies pushed him down or managers told him he'd never been good enough. He was grating his teeth. The rage was bubbling within him. He felt other powers trying to creep into a soul, but he denied them. He was going to do it his way. A golden aura began to expand from his chest with each beating of his heart the golden energy expanded further. There was an explosion of light that knocked his ancestor off of him. The foot of his ancestor was smoking from the sudden release of energy. A whistle escaped from his lips.
This little brat..... The ancestor stared ever forward as the aura began to calm down, still coiled around Anon's body. All the hairs on his body were beginning to stand up. He could tell this little brat hit unlocked something unique. It was still a little underdeveloped, but this is what he had been waiting for. Level: 45 (20+)
HP: 310
Stats:
Str: 205 (+70)
Dex: 205 (+70)
Con: 205 (+20)
Wis: 160 (+100)
Int: 20 (+2)
Cha: 38 (+20)
Skills added: Unbreakable Will (Resistance to Charm, Mind Control and fear) Humanity’s Will (Activation Skill) TRUE MARK OF THE ORGE (Activation Skill)
Ultimate Skill Added:
God Slaying Fist (Activation Skill)
"Old man, you wanted to see what I could do. Let's do it then." Anon spoke out with determination in his soul. He tightened his fist has all the golden energy rushed towards it like a waterfall hitting the riverbank. He was now the one slowly walking towards the other.
His ancestor was grinning ear-to-ear as if he was in some drunken stupor. His hands were still in his pockets as Anon swung his mighty fist towards them. The energy exploded outward, creating the image of a dragon's head. Its gaping maw open wide is the energy clamp down on his ancestor's body. He tried to take the energy on head first, but it pushed him out of the Arena in an explosion of force.
Anon dropped to his knees as the energy was released, wheezing and panting as a system screen came on. "God Slaying Fist Activated and on cooldown." The system read to him. He wasn't focused on that. He was focused on the cloud of smoke in front of him that was dissipating. His opponent... was still very much standing. Only this time, one of his hands was out of his pocket. He had to guard against the attack. He turned his palm towards himself. There were a few scratches on it. The ancestor let out an ungodly laugh as he looked at these scratches.
"Forging your own way through, huh? What a cheeky little brat. Maybe you are a Hanma after all." Another laugh spilled out of his throat. He threw something at Anon's feet. It was a metal object of some kind. It was three black triangles put together with the strange pentagram in its middle. "I usually don't help out people in their own fight. The battle for this planet is your fight, not mine but, you've impressed me. I want to see you grow. I want to see if you can make it to the top where I am. If you crush that object in your hand, it'll take you to her prison. She's locked up several people who might want to Ally with you... If you can, break them out. I will warn you, though, the warden there is not to be taken lightly." With that, he put his hands back in his pockets, turning away from Anon.
"Will meet again as long as you survive. I would suggest you hurry your friends don't have much time." With those words spoken, the cave grew dark again. Anon was left alone.
Meanwhile…..
They were prepared for war. The whole capital was every able-bodied Yak was lighting the exterior walls. But, of course, the catapults and ballistae had been prepared for war crude wooden machines as they were designed by Yaks. The thick iron gates were locked tight. The armies of Yakyakistan stood proud in the white snow. Hundreds of thousands of yak warriors stood with battle-axes in hand with barely any armor on. Their bodies were their Shields, after all. In front of the pack was their King. Holding his own magical Axe in hand.
Phantom was on the ramparts, still recovering from his wounds but watching the skies given command of the archers for this great battle.
The enemy forces crested over the hill. The main fighting force was a mixture of soldiers and Ice cavalry. Living ice that looks like centaurs in armor. In the skies were thousands of wyverns, all with riders upon them. The Yaks were outnumbered three-to-one standing in front of the enemy army was...Esdeath and a hooded figure. "Remember, we should try to keep casualties low. Esdeath." The hooded figure spoke out.
Esdeath's chuckled with a wicked grin upon her face. "I don't take orders from you.....Princess of the Night. MEN. SLAUGHTER ANYONE WHO GETS IN OUR WAY. SHOW THEM OUR STRENGTH." She shouted to the heavens.
Anon raced out of the cave as fast as he could. He felt the wind at his back with this newfound power maybe...just maybe he could do something. He soon found himself racing towards the light, picking up his pace even though he was exhausted from the battle. He found himself feeling the sting of cold air for a moment before his body adjusted. However, he didn't like what he saw when he came into the light.
Sitting about 20 feet from him dressed in all black was a woman holding a tea glass at an ivory table. He had seen this woman before. She was dressed in all black with hints of red throughout the dress. She had a black and red veil over her face. She was sipping from a glass of tea that she sat down against the table as Anon burst into the open. Surrounding her with four beings...two female and two males. All of these beings were extremely powerful. Anon could feel it... But none of them held a candle to the power radiating from the woman sitting at the table.
This had to be her...LILITH. Anon was stunned for a moment, unable to move. Why was she here? Anon scanned the area, trying to look for an exit as one of the men stepped up with a smile on his face. He was a purple-haired man. His hair was long, and his eyes were golden. He was dressed in very Arabian-like clothing with the turban around his head. There was a ruby in the center of his turban. He had gold and silver draped across his neck, yet his demeanor was friendly.
"Hello there. I am Sinbad, King of Sindria,. A pleasure to make your acquaintance. Our lady would like to have a word with you. She promises this is but simply talk. You'll be free to leave and do as you wish afterward. She wishes only to speak with you." The man spoke out with authority in his voice but with compassion. Anon didn't know how to take this. His eyes raced over to the other beings around Lilith.
The first woman was dressed in Knightly armor of silver and blue. She had golden hair that was tied neatly into a bun. She had a sword on her hip that was in a golden Scabbard. The woman across from her was completely different. She was floating off the ground with green eyes and hair. A green aura was wrapped around her body as she floated. She was looking indifferent towards Anon. The man directly behind the table was the biggest of them all. He had tan skin, black eyes, and a scar over his right cheek. He was dressed in some kind of strange battle armor. That was green and black.
Anon was sweating bullets...he was so close...why were all of these people here now suddenly?
He was gritting teeth. The yaks needed him. His friends needed him. But, now he was stuck here. He couldn’t fight them. Fighting even one of her guards would be a struggle right now even with the strength he had gotten. The idea of attacking her crossed his mind. If he could kill her then all of this would be over. Cut off the head of the snake and all that. Yet, even with that thought in his mind. That almost seem suicidal. She had this…aura. This overwhelming strength that he couldn’t see past. It was different from his Ancestor’s strength. Yet at a similar level…was there no end to her strength.
The man in front of him known as Sinbad gave bow to Anon, gesturing him towards the table. Anon gave a look but moved forward towards the table. Taking a seat across from Lilith. He offered her only a glare as her guard surrounded them. Lilith didn’t speak. She gave a wave of her hand for her honor guard to give them space.
“But, my lady…” The woman in knight armor spoke out.
“It’s quite alright, Arthoria. This is just a talk right Anon?” Lilith finally spoke. The voice was quiet. A whisper on wind that weighed down.
Anon nodded as his reply. Arthoria shot a look towards him. Anon glared back without breaking his composer. “Please listen to what she has to say. I know it may be hard to hear but, actually listen to her please.” She spoke before giving Lilith bow and back away the rest of the guard back away as well. The green haired woman gives a huff and Sinbad simply crosses his arms behind his back as they give the table some distance.
“First and foremost thank you for speaking to me. I know our relationship didn’t start off on the best foot. Would you like some tea?” She asked as if she was speaking to an old friend. She was calm, relaxed as if a thorn in her side for the last few weeks wasn’t seated across from her.
Anon was already grinding his teeth at her. She was this close to him. A woman murdered, enslaved and conquered anyone would get in her way. Maybe he could do it. He just needed a mortal wound. One solid blow to her head or heart. He didn’t show it on his face. Letting out a single breath to calm his thoughts.
“I have somewhere to be. So let’s skip the pleasantries shall we…and you get part where I don’t want to put your head through this table.” He could only hold back vile for so long.
That’s when his body locked up, a green aura appeared around his body locking him place. He flexed his muscle trying to escape was this her trap. He…couldn’t move. Even as he strained. “Hey blockhead, she is trying to be nice to you. We could cream the floor with you with ease. I could have done it all by myself. She wanted to talk to you. Be grateful.” The green-haired woman spoke in an annoyed tone.
Anon could move his eyes enough to see a green aura around her hand that locked him in place. It was some kind of weird mental energy. Was she a psychic? Lilith raised another hand. “That’s quite alright Tatsumaki. If I were in his situation. I might feel some….aggression. Please release him.”
Tatsumaki huffed again, lowering her hand as the tension broke around Anon's body. He let out a heavy breath. Sweat rolled down his cheek. This was worse than he thought. Could he get away now? He kept his focus on the source of his anger.
“Let me ask you some Anon. Do you know why I am doing all of this?” She asked, tilting her head.
“I don't. I am assuming it because you want to rule over everything or you get your sick kicks out of it.” That was true. He didn’t know why. It never really mattered to him. He saw her handy work. Enslaving people…making them bend to her will using force if needed. He didn’t feel the reason to fight against a tyrant.
Arthoria took offense to Anon words gritting her own teeth. Lilith however, only laughed. Chuckling at his words as if he had said some kind of joke. “Nothing that simple. I am afraid. All the people around us were just like you when I came to their worlds. They fought back at first and then I showed them what I fight against. So they joined me. I am not a threat here Anon.”
“What are you talking about?” Anon spoke. She had piqued his interest.
“There is something coming that threatens…the whole of existence. I have seen with my own eyes. In the world I come from I was a great Oracle. One cast her vision beyond the stars…and I saw something horrible. Something that cares not for life or peace. I took up my banners going world to world with power I had massed. I have gained much strength in my time but it is still not enough. This world has what I need. An unlimited amount of magical power within the planet itself.” Her words were focused and held weight to Anon’s ears.
“....” Anon’s fist tightened. “How do I know you are not lying? How do I know you have brain washed these people into believing you?” He paused looking at her. “And…even if that is the case…..you can’t just hurt innocent people just to justify your actions.” He slammed his fist into the table causing it to shake. He could feel his rage boiling over thinking of all the people who she has hurt.
All of the guards except for Sinbad went on the defensive but Lilith raised another hand to calm them. “They didn’t believe at first until I showed them. Would you like to see it, Anon? Maybe then you talk your friends down. Show them this is the only way. Luna saw it my way.” She offered her pale hand towards Anon.
