> What Am I?
>  by LordOctavianStark
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Bad Dreams
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

You're not sure where you are. The air is dense and fog as dark as night surrounds you. It seemed to create a glossy blanket, preventing you from gazing more than a few feet. Shouting for help has proved fruitless as nopony has responded to your attempts for over an hour. Still, you continue to wander the onyx landscape, determined to find your way home.

You then come upon a town, a whimsical city that lay in ruins. With buildings made of steel and glass stretching far beyond even the tallest towers of Canterlot. Large streets made of what appears to be solid stone instead of brick and cobble. Though you're sure you have never been to this place your hooves turn without command as if they walked the path before.

Soon you approach the only place that looks anything like what is in Canterlot. A zoo. You thought to yourself as you're drawn through its portal. Much like the rest of the refuse that was once a city, there is little not in a state of decay. Thick glass that lined the enclosures were either broken or severely cracked. You see something that makes you shiver, the lion enclosure was empty, it's… it's probably nothing. The city has obviously been abandoned for years. It can't still be around here… Can it?

That's when you hear it. A bone shivering roar that pierced the fog like a needle through cloth. Instincts took over as you ran to the nearest shelter. Bolting through the doors of an old brick building you took cover behind one of the many oversized counters. As you hid you began to hear the sound of faint whispering. Following the sound you reach a stone stairwell that seemed to reach into the bowels of Equis. The whispering still at the same level of volume as before.

Looking for a source of light, you found nothing. Just an engraving, Abandon all hope ye who enter here? Maybe I should turn back? Before you could contemplate further a call for help rang from the bowels of the subterranean level. Taken aback you steel your resolve and plunge into the darkness eager to help whatever lost soul is trapped below. 

Reaching the last step you see a light in the far corner of the underground room along with what appeared to be the steel bars of a dungeon. With the source of the whispering within sight you cross the distance. In the cell stood a single dark figure still whispering its incoherent musings. 

Keeping a safe distance from the bars you clear your thoughts and speak. "H-hello? Are you okay?" You ask to receive no response. Stepping closer you ask again. "Excuse me, are you okay?"

This time the figure responds, "please help me." Stepping closer to the bars yet again you ask the creature what is wrong. This was your mistake, once within distance the creature flings against the cell bars and latches onto you with long thin appendages, it's stubby claws digging into your flesh. "YOU HAVE TO LET ME OUT! YOU HAVE TO SAVE ME!"



………….


Bolting from your slumber you struggle to dislodge the nonexistent creature from you only to realise you are home within your bed. “For Celestia’s sake! Again with the nightmares!” Getting up you look toward the ornate clock in your room, 5:17 A.M.? It's too early for this, roll call isn't even for another three hours. 

Unfurling your long black wings you stretch, sighing. "I doubt I will be getting anymore sleep, might as well get ready," you concede. Making your way to the bathroom you take notice of yourself if the mirror. Your grey mane disheveled, eyes bloodshot, and your onyx coat is matted in various places. "Heh, I look like shit. Best do something about it." 

Walking away from the mirror you make your way to the shower of the surprisingly spacious accommodations given to you as an Officer of the Canterlot Police Department. Yes, you were a "pig", as the criminals of the city so eloquently phrased it. Though it wasn't your first career choice. 

Heh, the Princess reaaaaaally was adamant I go with Law Enforcement. Memories flooded back to you of when you first told Luna you wanted to become a guard….

"I mean, it makes sense right? My cutie mark is a battle axe and round shield. So obviously my special talent has something to do with it." I reasoned my position. Princess Luna "hmm'd" in contemplation, staring at some distant point located in the rather Spartan room provided to me in the castle infirmary.

"Perhaps, it has something more to do with defense rather than offense." She countered. Tearing her vision away from the seemingly uninteresting wall. She then turned to you. "I know you really want to travel, and the Guard and Legion will most definitely give you that opportunity. But you could also get a job in Canterlot, in say, Policing. Then you can travel in your free time. And maybe come with us-with I on diplomatic missions. If thou d-dost want to of course." She added quickly, and though you can't be certain, you think her midnight blue cheeks had a hint of crimson to them.

Your silence dejects her, and the princess looks away feeling slightly embarrassed for even asking as it was clear your mind was made up. "Princess" you call for her attention, though it seemed to have fallen on deaf ears. "Luna, look at me." At the sound of her name she glances back. "You're slipping again, with the words that is, and I'll tell you what. Give me a day to think about it. Because I won't lie, I'd definitely miss our talks if I'm not here." You gave her a soft smile that seemed to do just the trick.

Luna returned the joyous expression and gave you a hug which you happily returned. "We wou- I would miss our conversations as well. But I don't want you to feel pressured. Mayhaps I'm being greedy and simply do not wish to loose my friend." She broke the hug and stood to her full height. "Unfortunately, I have duties to attend to." As she made her way only exit in the plain room she stopped, looking back, "while I will miss you dearly, I still want you to do what YOU believe is best."

The hot water of the shower breaks you from your thoughts as you try to dislodge the memories from the forefront of your mind. Luna always treated me like such an old friend. As if I had known her for years long before we ever actually met. A smile touches your face. Just like it usually does when thinking of your closest friend.
 
You resume your bathing. Not in any rush as you had the misfortune of departing the sleeping world far too early. Hanging your head in exhaustion, you're already looking forward to getting off work so you can resume your slumber. But something catches your eye. The spent water flowing to the drain has a pink hue to it. 

Glancing around yourself and the shower you can see nothing that would make the water change colors. That is until you glance at your left foreleg. Refusing to believe your eyes you bring the appendage closer to your face. Only to see five crescent wounds hidden beneath your coat. Curious as to what caused the injury, you began to rack your brain for an answer. Much to your dismay nothing can explain it until memories of a pale beast latching onto you break you out of your stupor.

"I think I need to talk to Luna." You say to nopony and finish your shower. Making sure to be gentle on the partially scabbed wounds on your foreleg.
> Forgotten Memories
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Hey Star"

The sound of the many conversations that surrounds you are drowned out. Your gaze unflinching at the food that lay before you. Causing you to salivate almost uncontrollable. Swallowing thickly you continue to eye the charred meat. 

"Shielded Star?"

It felt like an addiction, as if you had ate the aforementioned flesh before and developed a dependency. No, it was worse than that. It felt as if something primal in you had been activated. Something that was always there but had been suppressed; though, now was breaking free of it's restraints-

"STAR!"

Jolted from your torpor you glance towards the origin of the raucous. Inches from your muzzle, a yellow beak fills your vision. "Back to the land of the living eh? You gonna eat your lunch or just drool on it?" He gestures to the salad in front of you. "Not gonna lie man, that's kind of nasty." The Griffon shakes his head and shivers slightly in disgust.

Foltess, your partner. A young Griff by any standard. If you hadn't personally knew him, you'd assume that he had lost his down feathers only a year or two prior. Though, he was still older than his looks betrayed. His soft black feathers formed the bulk of his chest and neck, with large white wings that would put most any Pegasus to shame.

Shaking the haze from your mind, you glance back down to your meal. And after a small amount of contemplation: you push the salad away, your appetite gone for the time being. Why does it look so good, why does it smell so good, and why in the name of the Old Gods and the Princesses do I want to eat it? Seeing you push away your meal, Foltess cranes his neck towards you. "Lose your hunger or something?"

"Hmm? Oh, ya. Not too hungry I guess." You responded, still trying to reason why you would want to eat the flesh of another.

A look of guilt crosses the young Griffin's face as he glances to his own meal, "Is it my steak? I, I can put it away if you want." You shake your head thoroughly at his question.

"Foltess, you've known me for how long now? You know meat doesn't bother me." You deadpan, the hybrid predator should know this, after working together for nearly two years. 

A cheeky smile graces his beak, "Which is pretty weird if you ask me. You're the only grass-muncher I've ever met that doesn't have an issue with it. Not to mention that you're the only pony in the whole department that isn't afraid to actually hit your opponent when sparring." He leans closer to you, his gaze critical, as he looks you over. "You sure you weren't a Griffin before you hit your head?" He teases.

He wasn't wrong, not the griffin part. But everything else. Glancing around, you are the only pony in the cafeteria reserved for the few carnivores on the force. And, he was right about sparring, ponies tended to have an aversion to hurting others, in any sense. You on the other hoof, did not. "Was I a Griffin before the accident? Hmmm, seriously doubt it. Maybe it's all this time I spend with this one foal-faced Griff I know." You smile back.

Foltess laughed heartily at the jape. "Well, you were probably raised by Griffins at least. Only other thing to explain how weird you are," he pauses to take another bite "Hey, it's our LFD for the rotation. Are you trying to go to the bar with your best bud?"

You shake your head, and sigh. He really does have a horrible memory. "Your 'Last Fucking Day' maybe. Not mine, I have the Verbal De-escalation seminar tomorrow, remember? Besides, I'm seeing Lu- the Princess tonight." You correct yourself. While Foltess likely wouldn't care, many ponies were put off when you referred to one of their Goddesses so casually.

The cheeky smile of the Griffin returned in force. "Spending time with your mare-friend huh?"

"She's not my-"

"It's fine, I get it. Who wants to get drunk when you can get laid." He teases, standing from his seat, he discarded the remnants of his meal. "Come on, our lunch is about over. We gotta get airborne for patrol." He quickly leaves before you can retort. Leaving you blushing, and slightly angry. It's all in good fun. You think to yourself as you make your way after him. 


~~~~~


You pass through the gate of the palace proper. The guards allowing entry with little more than a nod. Though, this is to be expected. You're a quasi-regular visitor to the grounds. And the silver moon medallion around your neck denotes you as the herald of Luna. Giving you nearly unrestricted access to the castle and palace. The latter of which you were currently traversing the halls of. 

Even though you're here often enough, you always find some ornate sculpture, vase or painting that you managed to miss on your previous ventures. Stopping at a beautifully detailed mirror with golden trim. You admire your build, flexing your muscles to appear more toned. 

"Ahem" sounds a voice to your right. Embarrassed, you immediately straighten yourself and face the direction of the voice, only to see an empty corridor. Confused, you turn to glance behind you to see the same. You face the mirror again to have your confusion mount. 

The onyx black Pegasus that was located in the mirror before was gone. Now a smoky being was in its place. It's face is obscured and unrecognizable. The slender, bipedal, frame of the creature was covered in clothes made of the same dark clouds that kept its face hidden from view. It's forelegs bound by blackened chains. Glancing down at yourself, you see that the mirror is still functioning as intended. Your previous Visage being replaced with the creature in the mirror. The creature from your dream.

"Let's go, can't keep royalty waiting."  Sounds the same voice as before. Turning again to your right you see it's owner. He is clearly a guard, but he has the same smoky appearance as the creature, as you. A rather forceful, telekinetic, tug on your chains prompts you forward as you follow the apparition masquerading as a Royal Guard. 

A voice echos, and though you are positive you are not speaking it sounds exactly like you, albeit, younger. "So, I take it I'm going to die right? Your queen gonna run me through?" The voice reverberated through the hall and your skull. Making it difficult to understand. 

"Princess, not queen. And there's two of them. Though I seriously doubt they'd kill you. Princess Celestia isn't like that, and I would wager a month's salary that Princess Luna isn't either." The 'guard' responds. As the conversation between the Guard and your body-less voice continue; you begin to feel a profound sense of deja-vu. As if, you not only heard this conversation before. But lived it. You began racking your mind for an answer but draw short time and time again. You're so lost in thought you don't notice the maid you walk straight into. 

"Oh, I'm so sorry," you say in your dazed state. The maid responds in kind "no, it's as much my fault as it is your- oh Star, it's you"

Looking yourself over, you see that you are in fact, Shielded Star once again. Facing the brown-coated earth pony maid, realization dawns on you. "Hey Zinnia, didn't see you there."

"Ya, no kidding." Placing her hooves under herself, she pushes up into a standing position. "You're here to see the princess I take it?" You merely nod as you begin to stand yourself. "Well, you should probably hurry then. Night court starts soon." Confused, you look to one of the large bay style windows to see the moon resting high in the sky. It wasn't even eight o'clock when I got here. How did so much time pass? Shaking the inner dialogue away you bid farewell to maid and speedily make your way to Luna's tower. 

Once more, the guards let you pass without question. Simply stating that you were expected. Entering the antechamber of the Lunar Goddess' quarters, you see the aforementioned alicorn poured over a large stack of papers. Not taking her eyes off the document, she acknowledges you. "You're late." She drones, clearly invested in the contents of the parchment.

"Ya, sorry I got a little… Lost in thought on my way here." The prolonged pause causes Luna to glance up from the paper that blocked the view of her face. "Oh, my. Thou look horrid!" She exclaims, and she was likely correct. Peaceful sleep had eluded you last night, and most nights before that. And you're sure that your vivid hallucination before did little to help your current appearance. Though, the midnight blue pony before you looked as if she fared little better. 

You always considered Luna to be the most beautiful mare you'd ever seen. Even with your general non-attraction to the pony race. Her eyes were bloodshot, her coat was disheveled, and even parts of her ethereal mane seemed out of place. "It's you, not thou. And you are one to talk. Are you okay?" 

You move to take a seat across from her as she lets out an exasperated sigh. "Heavy is the head that wears the crown. There are many issues rearing their ugly heads. Unfortunately, it falls to me to fix them." She finishes, lowering her head in exhaustion. "The White and Red-Tails seem keen to start another blood fued, we fear it may spill into our bordering territories. To make matters worse, the Minotaur Clans have concluded The Thing and have elected their new king. An isolationist who wants to end his nation's trade deficit. Effectively crippling our economy in Iron mining and shipping…. It is taxing on us to say the least."

A civil war among the deer-folk is no surprise to you. Being a fan of history, you are well aware that every couple generations, the deers would slaughter one another. But the new Minotaur King was news to you, you weren't even aware the old king had passed. Luna broke you from these thoughts before you could form a response, "But such is the way of the world I suppose. What about you, I can only assume your appearance is caused by your nightmares? The one about the accident?"

That causes you to pause. She clearly has a lot on her plate right now. Last thing she needs is to worry about me when she has a nation to run. You reasoned to yourself before speaking up. "Ya, and I keep waking up before I hit the ground. I just don't understand why my wings wouldn't open, why they wouldn't work."

Luna walks around the large oak desk and sits beside you. Placing her large wing on your back and pulling you into her. "I am sorry you must suffer through these terrors. I wish I could help you with your dreams. Your will is simply to strong, if I didn't know any better I'd say that you were actually an unicorn that went through the training to become an Aeon."

This gives you pause, "my will?"

Luna glances down at you and smiles. "Yes, your will. Just as unicorns use their will to control the thaumic energies. You, and every other creature uses their will to manipulate and resist magic. Yours is exceptionally strong, even in an unconscious state, the most I can do is feel what kind of dream you're having. I can not manipulate your dreams, let alone enter them. You could likely break any magical bound placed on you with sheer effort of will alone. It's quite impressive." As she finished, she smiled warmly at you. "But, enough of that. I have court soon and it has been far to long since we have had a chance to talk."

And so you and Luna chatted what little time she had away. Feeling very grateful that she was willing to put her work on hold just to catch up. But under these happy emotions, you had a torrent of doubt and fear coursing through you. Continuously drawing you back to the hallucination you experienced earlier. Though, the more you reflected on it, the less and less it seemed like a hallucination. But instead, a forgotten memory.
> Edict of Species
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"One of the worst things you can tell a pony, or any other creature for the matter, is to stay calm. Ironic as it is, telling them to stay calm generally has the opposite effect. Instead, try to reason with them. Ask them their name and address them as such to establish familiarity." You're having difficulty following along as the old stallion drones on about the same seminar you've taken twice before. Even more difficult was simply trying to stay awake. Sleep once again eluded you, though not due to any nightmare or the strange creature in them. No, you failed to obtain any sleep through your own actions of staving off slumber.

You were afraid. Not of having the nightmare, but of what it might mean or bring. Part of you is concerned that it may be a parasite harboring corruption. The time you spent with Luna left you well versed in dreams and their dangers. What if it's a Tantabus? What if it's THE Tantabus. The Nightmare? Those questions are what kept you up. You chastised yourself for not telling Luna of what plagues you, but after your hallucination, you also have a sinking feeling that there's more to it.

Whatever that vision was, it left you second guessing your oldest and closest friend. And you hated yourself for it, something in the back of your skull is telling you that you were wronged, and by Luna no less. But that's just not possible, Luna hasn't done anything to me but show me kindness. She's ALWAYS been my friend… Always… something clicked with that line of reasoning. 

"Luna always treated me like such an old friend. As if I had known her for years long before we ever actually met." The weight of your thoughts from the previous day crashed down upon you. Your disembodied voice echoed through your skull once again, reminding you of how much younger you sounded. Your chest tightened at the thought. No, no. I'm overthinking this. Tantabus, it has to be a Tantabus. It's trying to do the same to me as the Nightmare did to Luna. Make me question everypony till I feel like nopony is on my side. I have to tell Luna. 

With your resolve steeled, you sit upright. Determined to keep awake, not only through the seminar, but also until Luna awoke some time in the early evening.

… It was easier said than done.

Stumbling through the crowd of mostly ponies, you made your way through the double door that constituted the exit of the auditorium. Stepping off to the side of the building to adjust your saddle bags and bask in the rays of the sun. It alleviates some of your exhaustion, but does little else for you. Glancing to the celestial body, you guess-timate that it's barely past noon. Leaving you with quite a few hours to kill.

That was an issue. A part of you wanted to just wait it out at home, but you have little trust in yourself to not slip-up and pass out. The other option was to find something to do, there was a problem with that as well. The seminar was held at Canterlot Advance Thaumic Academy. Directly in the Upper Ring of the city. A place you did not visit often due to the expensive nature of the area, and the obnoxious nature of the ponies who inhabited it. 

Even with this dilemma, one thing was non-negotiable. Coffee. The nectar of the gods, and likely your only hope to remain conscious. Deciding it was prudent to obtain caffeine first,  your hooves began to stagger their way off the campus. Your gait is more reminiscent of a zombie as opposed to the living, though, you're far too tired to care. Passing through the closest exit, you begin to eye up and down the street. Desperate to find a cafe.

While scanning the block, you notice a shadow form above you. Glancing up, you're surprised to see a familiar face. "By the ancestors man, you look like you crawled through the wrong end of a hydra." Hovering a few feet above, Foltess looks down with concern.

"I wasn't aware there was a right end to crawl through, and hey. What're you doing here?" You step out from under him as he lands. His beak still maintaining his perturbed frown. 

"Well, since you blew me off yesterday; I figured I'd catch ya leaving the seminar and see if you wanted to grab lunch. Though, now I think I should take you home. You look half dead. Are you alright?"  

"I, well I'm not really too sure." The young Griffin's frown deepened at the statement. "It's, just nightmares man. Nothing to worry yourself over." You finish while waving your foreleg dismissively. He gives you a questioning look and  you answer his query before he can ask it. "And no, I don't want to talk about it. Atleast, not until I talk to Luna: but you said you wanted to get lunch? Cause I could definitely go for some coffee."

His frown still not wavering, he eyes you for a moment, before acquiescing with a sigh. "Sure, I guess. Did you have some place in mind?" He finally breaks his stare as he begins to survey the block. "Cause I don't think we'll find any here."

"Ya, I figured as much. I was actually planning on just trotting around till I find one." You finish with a nod as Foltess returns his attention to you. "Till you find one? Aren't you up here like twice a week?" He asks with an admonishing tone.

"Ya, to go to the palace. I never shop or eat here. Too blue for my blood." You search the recesses of your mind, trying to recall where you may have seen a cafe or restaurant. "Actually, I think I might know a place, c'mon." You stagger away from the Griff. Confident that he'll catch up. You were proven correct as merely a few seconds later, the sound of claws on cobble could be heard on your right. 

You're surprised that, in your sleep deprived state, you were able to remember the path to the elegant cafe so easily. "Un Avant-goût de Prance? The heck does that mean?" The black feathered griff asked. You can only shrug in response, "beats me, I don't speak Prench." You nudge Foltess forward, "s'go, I can already smell the coffee."

As you near the entry of the Cafe, a unicorn hostess trots out to meet you. She was tall, standing a hand or so over you. Her long-slender-purple legs looked like they belonged to a Saddle-Arabian, but her horn told otherwise "Excuse me monsieur. Is he with you" her accent was thick, and a little difficult to understand. Following her outstretched hoof, you can see she is pointing to your partner. 

"Uh, yes. A table for two please." As soon as the words leave your mouth, the hostess frowns. "I am sorry, monsieur, but we don't serve meat here." She informed while casting a sideways glance at Foltess.

"Well, that shouldn't be a problem, we just came here for some coff-", the Prench unicorn cuts you off before you can finish your statement. "No monsieur, you misunderstand. We don't serve carnivores here."

You're positive you misheard the mare, yet the words echoed clear as day in your mind. "What the buck do you mean by that?" You ask, your tone laced with venom. 

"Exactly what I said, we don't serve-"

"No, no. I fucking got that. Why in the name of the Old Gods won't you?" You let the anger get the best of you. Your voice is barely below a shout. And the effects were instant as two stallions exited the Cafe and joined the hostess. Seeing her fellow employees, the hostess puffs slightly in confidence, clearly signifying that she wasn't planning to relent. "Are you seriously not gonna let him in!? What the fu-" you were cut off by a talon on your back. Turning, you see Foltess shaking his head. "Come on man, it's not worth it." Bullshit it's not. You think too yourself. You are about to continue tearing a new one into the snobby Prench pony until you catch sight of Foltess' eyes, pleading you to stop. 

You acquiesce, but not before you put the unicorn in her place. "You still haven't been to the palace yet right? We can get some coffee from the Royal Kitchen." You say far louder than needed to ensure all can hear. "You sure it's okay if I go?" Your griffon companion asks. This puts a smile on your face, "Oh definitely. As the Herald of Luna I can definitely bring a guest. If the Princess asks about it I'll be sure to let her know it's cause this shithole coffeeshop refused us entry." You put extra emphasis on your title to get the point across. Turning away you can't help but feel a little smug, and glancing back to see the Prenchie have a worried look on her face was the icing to top it all off. 

Foltess runs to catch up to you, flapping his wings for added boost. "Thanks for sticking up for me Star. You didn't have too." You scoff before you begin your response. "Like Tartarus I didn't, what the heck is their problem? You're a Constable of Canterlot for Celestia’s sake, they not think you're good enough to eat there?" You pause to collect yourself and try to get your emotions under control. "Sorry, I'm tired and my temper is short as a result. Can't believe you kept your cool, of the two of us; you're by far the more wroth."

"You're fine, you're fine. And I kept my cool cause it's definitely not the first time that's happened." You immediately whip your head towards him, your anger returned. "Whoa, whoa. Calm down there Star. It's not that bad and doesn't happen too often. Most ponies go by the Edict. Just places like Canterlot and Cloudsdale tend to be a bit more prejudice." His words do little to soothe you, if anything, they make you feel guilty. He's been my partner for two years for Luna's sake. How did I not know about this sooner? 

"Why haven't I heard or seen this before?" You ask as the castle grounds begin to come into view. "I mean, we hangout all the time." 

"When's the last time we hungout outside of the Griffon District? Of course nopony or griff is going to turn me away!" Thinking on his words, he was right. Your apartment put you right outside of Little Griffonia. Not to mention that the department precinct was right in the middle of said area."Hmm, maybe only once or twice. And what Edict are you talking about?" 

Foltess stops dead and looks at you flabbergasted. He opens his beak to respond before breaking into a hearty laugh, "with how smart you act I completely forget that you only have a G.E.D." He managed to say in between snickers.

"Hey, I'm sure I have a regular diploma… Somewhere. Just can't remember what name it was under." Your response barely hides your embarrassment as a soft blush manages to push it's way through your onyx coat. "But what's this edict thing?" 

The young griffon takes a moment to recompose himself. "The Edict of Species. Pretty much the document that separates all animals into three categories. Intelligent, Semi-Intelligent, and Non-Sentient. It's a document agreed upon to create a universal set of rights for species. Dragons, Ponies, Zebras, Griffons, Minotaur, etc. are all 'intelligent'. Then you have Semi-Intelligent, which can be used as slaves or like in Equestria, indentured servants. They consist of the Cows, Buffalo, Diamond Dogs, and Deer. Then-"

"Wait." You cut him off. "I've met the Deer before when I went on a diplomatic trip with the Princess. They're just as smart as Ponies." You're positive of this, they had such an elegant culture that vaguely reminded you of a more nature-centric Prench style. You saw their art; their music, sculptures, and paintings. They were not the works of an unevolved species. "You sure about that?"

"Well, yah. Why do you think they have all those civil wars? The Red-Tail are kept in power by Equestria and the White-Tail want sovereignty/be recognized as a first rate species. I mean, how else would the Red-Tail keep power when they're outnumbered like 10-1 in favor of the White-Tail?" He finish his response with a shrug of his feathers and a raised brow. As if both asking and simply stating.

You're taken aback. You read all the time, especially history. But never have you came across this tidbit of information. "That's not in the history books." You state, still in disbelief.

"Not in Equestrian history books maybe. In the Griffon Kingdoms, less tends to be censored. Not saying it's perfect or propaganda free, but they wouldn't want to draw the ire of Equestria by lying." He answers in a hushed tone, glancing around as if to avoid eavesdropping. As if it was some forbidden knowledge he brought with him from his homeland.

You're at a loss for words. Though you feel like you've never heard this before, a sinking sensation is telling you that this isn't news to you. You try and latch on to this inkling but it only leads to a searing migraine behind your eyes. Causing you to clutch hour eyes. "Ya, no. I-I think I heard this before." You stated, somehow able to keep the pain from your voice.

"Yah, kinda messed up. Hey, they got steak at the palace? Something exotic like a hydra steak?" He asks with a voice laced with gluttony. "Actually I think they do." You respond with eyes still locked shut. The pain only somewhat faded. 

"Race you there?" He asks, sounding as if he was already several paces ahead of you. "Ha, better not. I mean you don't even know the way.." you finally open your eyes to see your companion bolting towards the main gate. "...there." sighing at his immaturity you can't help but smile. His childish attempt at cheering you up apparently succeeding. You gallop after your compatriot, hopeful to catch him before he is tackled by the Guard. Pushing the disgusting revelation from moments out of your mind. I'll talk to Luna about it. The thought piled with your ever mounting concerns.
> Pandora's Box
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

"And then he comes bolting out of the shed, armor barely kept together, with the saw miller chasing after him with an axe in claw. Let me tell ya, my brother never tried to get with the miller's daughter again!" Flotess finishes the story with a laugh, and you can't help but join in. A grin not leaving your face since he began the tale. Even though you had known the griffon for a couple years, he'd never talk about his family or home other than the few inebriated tales here and there. Frankly, you assumed disliked his family due to his reluctance to talk about them.

It was nice to see that wasn't the case. "The best lessons are learned through pain, or fear of death, like for your brother. What is he up to nowadays?" You pause to take a large gulp of your coffee. "He still in the militia?"

Upon hearing your question, Foltess' jovial mood was immediately soured. "No, Vernon, he. Well, Vernon died in a bandit raid about a year before I moved here. He was the last family I had in Storms Peak, kinda the reason I left." His head hung in slight sorrow. "I just had too many memories there."

Your response was quick as you placed a large onyx wing across his back. "I'm so sorry man." You hated these situations. You never know what to say, and what can be said? All you could offer are sweet words that would change absolutely nothing about what has already happened. Luckily, the silence from Foltess tells you that he isn't looking for soothing words, he seems content in just having you near as he stares blankly ahead. 

Unsure of what to do, you begin to survey your surroundings. The Royal Garden, contrary to its name, seemed more like a small forest located within the castle proper, so dense with assorted foliage and flowers, that it was often impossible to see more than a few yards ahead. But that didn't make it any less beautiful. You're positive there must be a sound dampening ward as the clamorous cacophony of the city is undetectable, making the flowing water of the small koi pond near you the only sound. It's peaceful to say the least.

As the time dragged on you began to worry for the young griff to your right as he still had yet to recover from his distraught nature. Glancing around yourself, you look for anything that might allow you to broach a new subject. Eyeing the empty plate that lay in front of Foltess, you open your mouth to speak. "Sorry they didn't have Hydra steak. Was the manticore alright though?" You query as you remove your wing from his back.

"Hmm? Oh, yah. I never had one before, only thing that would've made it better is some booze to wash it down with." He responds, slowly returning to his chipper self. "Like a good ale or maybe even a red wine."

"Y'know, you could always go get some. Just tell them it's for us."

"Really!?" The mention of free alcohol seemed to perk him up. Were it not for the fact that he is young, and, that just until a few years ago, you drank as heavily as him. You would be worried that he was an alcoholic. He could use a drink. Besides, it's not like I didn't drink nearly every chance I had when I was his age. I mean, that's what your early twenties are for. You think to yourself as you let a small smile form.

"Yes, really."

"Sweet! Did you want anything?" He asked, already standing, stretching his back in the feline like fashion that always forces you to stifle a laugh. I probably shouldn't, alcohol seems like a surefire way to pass out, unless… "actually, I'll take an Irish Coffee." You respond, already looking forward to the sweet, cream topped alcoholic drink.

"A what coffee?" Looking to Foltess, you see his face portray pure confusion. "An Irish Coffee, whiskey, sugar, coffee, whipped cream. You never heard of it?" You reply, as if hoping the description would jog his memory.

"Oh, you mean a Marerin Coffee. The hay is an Irish?" His question catches you off guard. You would assume that he was simply messing with you, but his confused expression says otherwise. "You're fucking with me right?" The griffon merely shakes his head. "Irish, like, relating to the island of Ireland?" You explain, while making vague gestures with your hooves as if that will help explain it better.

"Oh, where is Ireland at? That some island in the Gleaming Sea or something?" 

"No, it's in-" once again your migraine returns. This time even worse than before, it was as if a fire had been lit behind your retinas causing you to immediately clench your jaw and eyes shut. You would've fallen to your side if not for a pair of talons keeping you propped up. 

"Whoa, you okay Star?" You can merely nod in response as the pain pounds in your skull. "What happened?" Foltess inquires as he pushes you into a sitting position. Once he ensured that you were able to sit upright under your own power, he released his grasp.

"I-I'm not too sure. I think I remember something from before the accident. But when I tried to push the memory it felt like a steam engine crashed into my head." Trying to alleviate the pain, you slowly shake your head. "Gods that fucking hurt." 

"Did you want me to get you a potion from the infirmary?" The thought made you shiver. Healing and pain potions were quite notorious for their horrid scent and taste; completely betraying their healing properties behind a veiled scent of rot that would make one assume it was full rancid ruffage. "Oof, yah, no. I'd rather not lose my lunch. But, if you're offering, I'd gladly take some acetaminophen with my Irish Coffee."

"Marerin Coffee," he corrects you in a teasing tone. "And, I got you. Be back in a flash!" Before you could bid farewell, Foltess launched himself forward with a powerful flap of his wings. Nearly covering the distance between the pond and the palace entrance with one flap alone.

Left alone, you close your eyes, using your hooves to gently massage your temples to help alleviate the remaining pain. This seemed to work wonders, as the pain subsided nearly as quickly as it arrived. Sighing, you drop your head in content while letting the warm breeze cradle you into the slumber you had been avoiding.


………….


"So the garden stays green year 'round?"

"Yes, verily. It has quite the extensive set of wards surrounding it. It was originally started as an experiment to see how well unicorn and earth pony magic would compliment each other."

The sound of quiet conversation roused you. At first, you tried to ignore it. Not wanting to have your sleep interfered with. Yet, try all you will, you can't fall back into your rest as you no longer feel exhausted. Making an exasperated sigh, you open your eyes.

Glancing around, nothing seems overly off. The koi pond is still there, the dense forest scenery has not vanished, you're still in the Royal Garden. That revelation was clear enough. The only thing that seemed to change was the presence of the two ponies mid conversation. 

Looking towards their direction, it was clear why you believed something was off. The gentle conversation was clearly between beings you knew. One fairly well. The smokey, lanky, creature was back. That in and of itself would be cause for alarm, coupled with the fact that the pony he is talking to was an alicorn, and Luna no less, made it all the more worrisome.

You stand and trot over to the apparitions. The only way you can tell it is your princess, Luna, is due to her size and voice. She looks nearly identical to the smoky guard from your hallucination. Just barely recognizable enough to tell who she is. Pacing around them, it is clear that they seemingly don't or more likely can't take notice of you. It's kinda like how Luna described dream walking. You think to yourself as you take a seat next to the bank of the koi pond. Intending to watch the conversation unfold.

It was strange, seeing Luna so nonchalantly talking to the creature that plagued you. You're fairly certain that this is merely the works of a tantabus, trying to fill you with doubt. What's worse, it seemed to be working. That sinking feeling of half realized and remembered deja-vu that left you feeling that it wasn't the first time you watched this play out. 

With this internal dilemma, it was rather difficult to follow the conversation. You're only able to focus in for a short few sentences before turning back to the turmoil taking place within your subconscious as it crawls its way to the front of your mind. At Least, until you see the lunar doppelganger extract something from a pair of saddlebags near her.

"Dost thou know what today is?" She asks the creature while turning to the creature. A loud hum can be heard before it's response, "Thursday?" The being replies lazily. The answer seemed to be humorous as the alicorn let out a soft giggle. "Aye, that it is! But it is also something else. An old holiday, Amicitia, or friendship. Once it was a highly celebrated day, especially amongst the military. Now, since our banishment, it has been nearly forgotten." There was a restraint in her tone, laced with a sweet melancholy, as if remembering a fond experience with a loved one who's passed.

Taking notice of the box, the creature leans forward, now seemingly invested in the conversation. "What's it about?" He asks as you follow the box intently, even though everything about these two apparitions were obscured and only barely recognizable, the box retained such fine detail. I've definitely seen this before, but where?

"It was a day to be spent with comrades. Brother and sisters, not by blood but by covenant. It was originally a military holiday, that is how We were introduced to it. You start the day by offering a gift to your friends, a representation of how much they mean to thou. Then the rest of the day was meant to be spent drinking and reminiscing of the good times spent together. It holds a dear place in my heart. Though those friends are gone, their memories persist." She explained.

"That's oddly sweet. Also, you're getting much better with your speech. You seem to be using less and less of your Shakespearian dialect." A shiver shoots down your spine. Listening to the demonic figure talk with your appropriated voice and parlance was unsettling to say the least. It even corrects Luna's speech like I do.

"We, I, always found it strange that you had a playwright that wrote his plays in Old Equestrian, but I digress. Even though the holiday has fallen by the wayside, I still celebrate. And so, this is my gift to you." She hoofs the box to the creature. He accepts it in his claws. Scrutinizing it with it's blackened face. "What is it?" He asks while craning his head to view the objects underside.

"A memoir of sorts." The creature immediately makes a grunt in confusion, prompting the alicorn to clarify. "My sister and I are immortal. Immune from time and age. But like all beings, our memories are susceptible to them. They will degrade and fade over time. This is where the carved container comes in. It is an ancient and enchanted object. It's purpose is to store memories, so that they may never be forgotten. Inside, you would find the culmination of three millennia of friendships. Memories I hold so dear that I refuse to let them be washed away with the sands of time. Friends made on the field of battle, where somehow beauty and love blossomed surrounded by nothing but death and destruction. Friends made in the gilded age of peace, where there was never a worry and never was a day tarnished by despair. The memories that make me know, even when all those I hold dear will pass while I persist, that there is still reason for those connections and relationships. I tell you this because, like my closest and most loved friends of ages passed, I added our memories to it, and if you'd permit. I would like to add your memories to it aswell. Only the ones you want to that is." Even though this isn't real, you can't help but have your heartstrings tugged by the sentiment the apparition gave to the beast. 

"Heck, you're welcome to add all my memories to it. Just not the clandestine ones." The beast finishes the reply with a curt laugh.

"I wonder what that box is called." You state aloud. As soon as the words leave your mouth, time seemed to freeze. Falling leaves and flying insects left frozen in midair. The two being in front of you are paused, like actors holding pose as a play ends. "What the fuck?"

"Oh, so you are here, splendid." Sounds a familiar voice to your left, causing you to jump and rotate to face it. Only to see the still waters of the koi pond. "There's no need to worry, I simply wish to talk." Approaching the water, you see the reflective nature of the water at work. Though instead of you, the visage of the creature is once more in your place, but unlike before. You are still Star.

"What do you want beast?" You ask, your tone laced with anger. Upon hearing this, the reflection let out a smug snort. "I only wanted to show you this," it nods it's head to the paused scene before you. "To inform you of the importance of that box, and the choice you must make." 

Sparing a glance to the ornate case, you turn back to the pond. "And what makes it so important?" Though it's face is still obscured, you can still notice the large smile spread across it's flat face. "Because that is Pandora's Box." You tilt you head to the side, puzzled, before the beast can clarify. "If you open that box, and view the memories within. Then you will destroy the world as you know it, and be awoken from this fallacy. Every doubt you have, every question that has been gnawing on your mind, will be answered. That is your choice, to live the beautiful lie, or the view the world as it truly is and know the hideous truth." It responds with a slight shrug of it's shoulders. "You've seen it before, the box. Luna keeps it on her desk in the antechamber of her quarters."

"And why would I do that? Why would I betray the trust of my friend and go through her things without permission?" You shot back.

"Why? Because, unlike ponies, your curiosity is insatiable. And how can it not be? It is hardwired into you, into me, into all of our kind."

"What do you mean by our kind?"

"Hmmm, we don't have much time left." The creature muttered to itself. "If you truly want to know what I mean, open the box, and all will be revealed."

"Or how about you just tell m-"


…………


Your eyes flutter open quickly. Only to see the teasing smile of a familiar beak. "Hey there sleeping beauty, you enjoy your nap?" He asks while proffering you a large mug of what you can only assume to be the Irish Coffee you requested. You accept it in your hooves as you force yourself upright into a sitting position. "Oh, and here." His claw opens up, presenting a white pill. "That aceta-whatever you wanted."

You greedily accept the pill and immediately swallow it, chasing it down with your spiked coffee. "Ah, that's good," you groan into the mug. Reveling in its taste. 

"Ya, the ale I got is pretty good too. I needed it to pre-game for tonight." He says with a light laugh before taking a sip of his own mug."Why? What's going on tonight?" 

"Oh, I'm going to the bar with a couple guys from work later. Actually, I should probably head out in the next hour or so to get ready. Sorry I can't stay with ya until the princess gets up." He explains.

"It's fine. It's fine. Actually… I think I might have to do something before she wakes up anyway."
> Revelations
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

You continue to pace as you have done for the past thirty or so minutes. Your eyes glancing to and fro anything in the small room, just something to latch on to so you can continue to postpone your planned venture. Unfortunately, the waiting room offers nothing more than the same two paintings and matching loveseats that were present when you first entered. 

Stopping at the large double oak doors that lead to Luna's antechamber, you proceed to lightly bang your head against the oak surface. Foltess left you to your own devices nearly an hour ago, and in this hour you had yet to steel your resolve and just commit to it. I need to know what's going on. Taking a deep breath as if you're about to plunge into frigid water, you slowly push the door open with your hoof. Just enough to peak your head through.

Glancing around the antechamber, you see nothing out of place, and most importantly: you see no signs of the Lunar Goddess. Releasing the breath you'd been holding. You trot your way into the room, attempting to be as quiet as possible. Your eyes locked on your objective, a beautifully carved box sitting atop a golden inlaid desk. Pausing before it, you eye it cautiously. If Luna thought this was dangerous, she wouldn't leave it out, right? You reason to yourself before taking the box in your left hoof and hobbling your way to the love seat across from the large desk.

Placing the box on the adjacent cushion, you take your seat. I've come this far, no reason to stop now. You think as you use your muzzle to unlatch the container and peer into it's contents…


……..


Darkness was the best word you could use to describe your location. A hallway with only a floor, no walls, no ceiling. The only thing present was the rows upon rows of floating mirrors on either side of you, stretching for nearly eternity. Each one with a nameplate below it. "These must be the names of Luna's friends." You think to yourself aloud. Flapping your wings you approach the first mirror on your left, Cloud Chaser was stamped boldly on the bronze plate. Glancing to the dull mirror you see nothing but yourself. Shrugging, you continue down the row. Each mirror presents the same as before. That is, until something catches your eye. A soft glow eminents from the mirror furthest down. Though, that is not the only thing that separates it from the rest. Unlike the previous mirrors, this seems to have two nameplates as opposed to one.

The top plate was scratched out and entirely unlegible, the bottom on the other hoof read Shielded Star plain as day. Running a hoof over the raised lettering you look up to the mirror only to see everything fade to black. Then a brightness overtook all causing you to shield your eyes with your left foreleg.

Lowering your hoof back down to the ground you notice that you are in the throne room of the palace. Everything seems to have a slightly hazy appearance, as if trying to remember a dream. You move to take a step but trip over yourself, impacting the marble ground. "By the Gods, that hurt," checking for any injuries makes you pause. Your hooves are replaced with stubby, pinkish white, claws. Staring down at the reflective marble you can see the confused mien of the beast that has been haunting your dreams. It's face no longer clouded and obscured, soft and familiar blue eyes stare back at you,  between those a small protrusion of flesh sticks out. Looking further down you see soft pinkish lips. Bringing your hoof up to touch them you feel the soft digits of your claw brush against them. The feeling so foreign, yet familiar. You continue you brush the claw across your face, trying to understand this feeling of hiraeth.

"While thy face is unique, we would assume thou had seen quite enough of it." Jolted from your stupor you fling yourself back. Staring up you see the face of your close friend. Luna looks at you with a smugly amused smirk. "By the Gods Luna! What did I say about sneaking up on me!?" You shout in annoyance.

"By the Gods? Hmm, has't thee converted  to our religion? Yond doest not soundeth liketh thee, what is it thee sayeth? Jesus?" Glancing to her, you quickly remember that you are not truly experiencing this. Shaking your head from this realization you began to stand up on your two shaky legs.

“Luna, what are you saying? And why are you speaking like that? You've never used classical Equestrian this much.” Bringing yourself to your full height you see that you stand far above the alicorn. Possibly even taller than Celestia herself. 

“Mine own apolo-, I mean, I'm sorry. It doth take time to adjust to the new ‘lingo’ as it t'were.” She says while making air routes with her left hoof. “But art thee well? You seemeth unsteady?” Her voice laden with concern as she approaches further. You finally make sense of what is happening. 

This is a memory. If this is Luna's memory I wonder what other one's are here? As if on cue everything fades to black. Until the blinding flash returns.

Looking down to yourself you see your hooves have returned. Lifting your gaze you see a cake, further above are Luna and Celestia in pointed party hats. “Happy birthday Sheilded Star.” Celestia says as she magically proffers you a gift, opening it you see a new set of spell binding rings. “I know the department issues these already, but I had them specifically ordered. They are enchanted by the best spell drafters around. Not a single unicorn would be able to break this.” She finishes with a smile, the same one she gives you every time you see her.

Deja-vu hits like a steam train. “T-thank you” You say, still baffled. This is my last birthday. Why are my memories with that creature? What is he? 

Suddenly the blinding flash returns. Looking over yourself you see your stuby claws locked in steel chains. Glancing up you find yourself surrounded by guards. To your front are the element bearers and Princess Celestia. the confusion you've had since entering this strange realm returned a thousand fold. Your attention is drawn to Celestia as she begins to speak.

“Since you have lived here A̴̡̜̗̩͌͆̃̏͠n̶͔̙̫̻̪̏̅͗̒̈͐͠o̴̩̖̎̎̔ṇ̵̦͓̲͈̞̖̖̮͑̈́͌̆̿̕ͅ, you have been subject to ridicule and disdain. I would like to think that Pony Kind is above that, but sadly we are not. I want to protect you A̴̡̜̗̩͌͆̃̏͠n̶͔̙̫̻̪̏̅͗̒̈͐͠o̴̩̖̎̎̔ṇ̵̦͓̲͈̞̖̖̮͑̈́͌̆̿̕ͅ, I don't want you to spend the remainder of your life cooped up in here. But if I were to let you out the world would know of your existence, countries would do their best to capture you for the information you possess, then when that is done you will most likely be experimented on until death. I refuse to let that happen so I had Princess Twilight develop a spell.” She finishes with a nod to the young alicorn. Everytime she states the creature's name a pulsing migraine forms behind your eye. You try your best to ignore it to formulate a response but it was nearly useless as you could barely think straight.

“W-what?” was the only response you could form as the migraine began to subside. 

Celestia continues her speech. “In order to… Protect you from the world, Twilight has developed a spell that will allow you to become a member of Ponykind.”

“I'll become a pony?” You state aloud, your mind begins reeling as the migraine returns with burning intensity. “AHHH” You howl in pain as a fire lights in your skull and you fling yourself back in pain as you are ejected from the dream. Darkness claims you as you pass out from the intensity.


……..


You're jolted awake by a sharp strike to the muzzle, it spins your skull to the side as you awake from your slumber. Opening your eyes you see pale claws lift your gaze skyward. Above you is the beast, you stare into his eyes as he gazes into your soul. “Wake the fuck up samurai, we have a city to burn."
> A Guest
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The beast holds your muzzle in his claws and stares into your eyes for a moment before finally releasing you. He stands to his full height and takes a step back before pacing back and forth. His massive size amplified from your prone position. Causing fear to rise in your heart. “You shouldn't still be here. It should've worked. Why didn't it… Why?” It continued to ramble to itself incoherently. Finding it impossible to follow along with his verbose speech you roll yourself onto your stomach and push yourself into a seated position facing the apparition.

“What- what do you mean I shouldn't be here?” You ask as you shake the daze from your mind. The attempt was in vain. The creature somehow vanished from its position and reappeared in front of you almost immediately, as if teleporting like you had seen Luna do hundreds of times. This causes you to fling yourself back, his sudden appearance nearly scaring your soul from your body.

“I mean,” he pauses to take a step towards you. “That you shouldn't be in here.” He taps a finger to your skull. “The spell should've been broken and you should be gone. I should be back in control instead of this acid trip spirit guide you see.” Each word was punctuated by another tap against your skull. 

You smack his claw away confused. He should be in control? You mull his words over until it clicks. “You, you were trying to kill me!?” You shouted with a voice laced in venom. You fling yourself into a standing position and spread your wings in a defensive stance. Crouching low you stare daggers at him.

“Yes, I should be in control. Jesus fucking Christ. No way I'm this fucking dense. How does he not get it yet!? Did they take away my common sense when they turned me into an abomination!?”

You brush off the fact that it seemed that he had read your thoughts and continued. “You certainly love to talk to yourself creature.” This causes him to fling his head in your direction with a scowl that could kill.

“Well, I have been locked in my own mind for SIX FUCKING YEARS! So yes, when you have no one else to talk to you tend to talk to yourself.” He shouted in pure anger, causing you to fold your ears back in response. “They took everything from me. My humanity, my body, my life, my own name, hell even my death. Then locked me away, as I watched some masquerade of myself go about life in my body!”

“Your body!? Just because you failed to do to me what the Nightmare did to Luna does not make my body yours!” You shot back. You knew Luna had sound dampening spells on her room but you pray that maybe she'd hear you and come to your aid.

The creature facepalmed with an exasperated sigh. “God you are stupid. You saw the memories did you not?” You remain silent but nod in response. “Don't you think it's strange that my memories and yours are together? That when you went through the history that should have been yours you found mine?” your eyes open in realization. Why were my memories with his? You think to yourself as you mull over it's meaning. “Don't even bother thinking of it. You're to dumb to piece it together obviously.” 

Dread sets in. “You can hear my thoughts. What… what are you?” You say aloud. It wasn't a question, it was a statement of fact. The thing only hummed in response.

“Of course I can. I am you, and you are me. We,” he motions to himself then to you, “are human.”

Realization suddenly hits you. “You're not really here are you?” You ask as the implications of it finally sink in. 

“Of course I am, I'm just not here physically.” He states then taps a claw to his own skull. “I'm up here.”

Your eyes widen. “By the Old Gods. I'm going insane.” your voice trembling as you say it. 

“The ‘Old Gods’? They even have you worshiping their fake deities. Y'know, I prayed to a lot of gods in my life. But at least they were all gods of men.” He squats down to eye level with you. His posture becomes relaxed and it seems to ease some of your fears of him. “Look, I'm gonna level with you ‘Star’,” he uses his claws to make quotation marks around your name. “I've been locked away a long time, and my plan to get free didn't quite work. But you can still help me get back at the bastards that did this to me.” He finishes with a soft smile.

“And why the buck would I do that beast?” You ask, your tone dripping with hate.

The creature's smile then grew demented in nature. “Because, you are me. Listen closely and don't interrupt.” he stood from his squatted position and began to pace agian. “Six years ago the Princesses tried to do something horrible. They tried to take away my humanity. I couldn't accept this obviously, and took an out. I flung myself from the castle tower and committed suicide. Atleast, that was the plan. I laid in a dream, thinking ‘oh, fuck. I'm in a coma,’ well that was until you woke up. They had turned me into one of them and locked me away in your subconscious.”

Coming back to you, he looks down on you with pity. “You never crashed during a late night flight. You never lost your memory because of it. You are a version of me that had his memories stripped away until the barest bit of my personality remained. Then you were fed lie after lie. Your life is a sham and I truly am sorry you had to find out like this.”

You want to call him a liar, you wanted to rage against the story he had fabricated. But deep down, you knew it was no lie. You knew deep in your heart that this was the truth. “I destroyed the world as I knew it.” The words barely choked out as tears began to run down your cheeks.

“Pandora's Box, it's a bitch and a half.” The creature takes a step even closer and sits to the left side you. Letting you cry silently as your world came crashing down. All that you couldn't explain suddenly made sense. Every question that gnawed at you finally had an answer. It did not give you joy as you had hoped. It left you broken and hollow. After a few moments the human apparition draws your attention by bumping into your left side with his shoulder. “Hey, there is something that will make you feel better.” He says, staring forward.

“What's that?” You ask, no emotion in your voice. Your gaze still planted forward. Not looking at anything other than empty space.

Out of the corner of your eye you see him turn his face to you and you respond in kind. Looking into his eyes you can see a glee in them. His mouth cracks into a crooked smile before he speaks. “Revenge.”