> Sealed Within
>  by Shroomkin
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Prologue
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






A Day to Remember, A Victory to Behold



N’hir Vhanna. A land made by the Primes of old, with great magic imbued within by the two eldest of the Primes. Where the corruption of cryogems were halted by the very Primes who made the continents and oceans, who made the Northern and the Southern winds, who made the first flames of old. 

Each representing an element, the Primes demanded absolute order amongst the citizens of this new world. Draga, the eldest son, guardian of the holy Element of Light. Raggoth, the second eldest, master of the mysterious Element of Darkness. Oronos, the wisest and the adviser of all of his siblings, the third eldest dubbed the "Sun Gazer" by his siblings, represents the ever free Element of Wind. Tirge, twin brother of Taal and oldest amongst the twins, ever wrathful, holds the might of the Earth. Taal, ever vengeful as the younger one, lashes with the power of the Water. And finally, the youngest of them all. Eliana, ever cheerful, the foundation for all her siblings, she casts the Element of Fire. Together, they have built the foundations necessary for beings to live amongst the cursed planet. And together, they developed unity amongst those who made their kingdoms after their images. 

With the Primes' ever growing presence, they have decided to transform to their true bodies for all to witness, Elder Dragons, as some call it. Draga, the ever radiant serpent-like dragon, with four limbs and no wings, and a long slender body, with horns that of a reindeer. Raggoth, the definition of a wyvern, with the arms connected to the wings and the legs powerful enough for landing. Tirge, a massive land drake with a huge club on his tail and massive spikes amongst his back, living amongst the volcanoes of his own territory. Taal, a massive lindwurm, with powerful flippers to traverse the oceans with ease. And finally, Eliana, who despite being the smallest has the most powerful fire breath. She wasn't known as the Element of Fire for nothing, after all. She was, like her older brother Raggoth, a wyvern with beautiful colorings that matches her personality. It was only Oronos who did not bother to show his true form for he did not need to as he has found peace living like his people, as well as peace gazing upon the sun.

It was a land of harmony. The different kingdoms guided by the six creators, the six Primes gave the people wisdom and gifts. They have succeeded in defending the kingdoms from the threats of the Elgs, fierce beings who decimated lands in search of cryogems. It became a land of peace soon after when the Elgs were vanquished once and for all with the use of the combined strength of the siblings and the might of the armies. 

It was a peaceful land...

It was, until the Great Death. Everyone was in mourning, for Eliana passed away into the realm of the dead. The one who brought happiness and joy to the brothers, who her smile has touched even the wrathful heart of Tirge, one who loved her people so much that she gave them a land far from the reaches of the Elgs, has perished. It was not a natural death, no, it was an assassination. No one has ever killed a Prime, no, no MORTAL has ever struck down a Prime, let alone kill one. By this logic alone, each individual brother demanded a reason not to kill each other, for they themselves are the only ones who knew how to kill a Prime. With tensions rising and suspicions lurking, the eldest of the brothers decided that a meeting shall take place in his kingdom, Irunia, where they then proceeded to cast multiple barriers so the mortals can never hear what they talked about. There, the brothers spoke of truth, and the tensions between all of them died down to some extent. It was then that the eldest decided to outcast himself from the very people he pledged to protect, in fear that the mortals may betray him soon. He advised everyone of his brothers to do the same, in order to minimize the potential outcome of death. 

Prideful, however, are the twins, as they wish to gain terrain from the same areas for petty reasons. Oronos, on the other hand, never really interacted much with his people, rather, he spent most of his time indulging upon philosophies and written texts made and offered by his people. As such, he had the easiest way to "escape" his own kingdom, by simply walking amongst the commonfolk as if he was one of them. He vanished later on to the unknown regions of the Desert Isles. Raggoth, on the other hand, despite being the bearer for the Element of Darkness, was kind to his people and loyal to his older brother. Because of this, he gave his people one final gift, the Orb of Protection, to ensure that his people would be protected even though he is gone. And thus, Raggoth left and hibernated in the dark abyss he made as his own territory. 

It was then that wars finally struck with the rest of the kingdoms, demanding an explanation as to why the Primes are disappearing, with each kingdom blaming the other, asking why only the Tidal Prime and the Mountain Prime remain. With misunderstandings happening, the skirmishes of Taal and Tirge were not helping the cause. They were far too preoccupied with their own battles that they did not realize that these battles were affecting not only the welfare of the other kingdoms, but also the inner thoughts of the people. That was the breaking point for some. With their Primes gone, it was time to take action. Kings and Queens ordered their men and women for battle. Lands were taken in an attempt to gain resources. People were denied passage if it meant dealing more damage to the enemy kingdoms. It was no longer about their Primes. It was for greed and power, for the strength they were willing to show in order to make the cowards flee.  

It was only when the desolation of their sister's kingdom, Tha'Ruel, reached the brothers that the two stopped their war, though, the damage has been done. Casualties can be seen amongst the once pure lands. Soldiers drowning amongst the waves, cities burning and people famished. The wars affected millions of innocent people. With this revelation, Tirge and Taal decided that their war shall linger no more. They looked upon their people with guilt upon their eyes. Soon, the eldest came down upon the heavens to speak upon the brothers, and to scold the mortals who fought not out of love for their Primes, but for greed and the power that they can take, for the lands that they can conquer, and for the people that they can gain. It was here that the eldest took the brothers away, saying that they shall return once more for the glory of N'hir Vhanna. And the people cheered upon their missing Primes, and they swore to bring peace for their masters' return. And then there was peace yet again, with the Elgs no longer a threat, with cryogems no longer a source of corruption, with no Primes to lead.

It is a peaceful land...





Twenty thousand years have passed. The tales of the Primes were long forgotten, and a new Evil has risen amongst the people. One who has decimated the lands out of pure spite, he who has burned down farms to destroy the food supply of the Commonfolk, he who watched as the sacred forests of Eldenuur collapse under his great rule; the bringer of death to the Dwarves as he commanded his dragons to purge the mountains of KhaLagris and the ruler of the once proud nation of Irunia, the ancient city bestowed upon the people of Draga. 

Known as the Emperor of All, the Great King of the Draens, demonic beings with powerful magic who were never united until his rule, the Scourge of All Kin, the Desolator, he has amassed a number of deaths upon his name. The very utterance of his name stirs the hearts of people with fear, no matter the race. He is known simply as-

"OMNIDIAH THALION!" 

A loud shout echoed from the now open doors of the throne room. There stood six figures, each with different weapons and armor. The eldest among them, a Commonfolk Wizard, spoke once more. "THALION, SHOW YOURSELF YOU COWARDLY SNAKE!"

Just then, flames upon the torches start to appear, each light growing upon the dark throne room. Then, a pair of deep red eyes appear before them. Slowly blinking, it spoke, "Another challenger ready for their demise? How intriguing." The figure stands upon its seat, slowly walking towards the end of the stairs of the throne. "It appears you have defeated some of my more... disposable warriors. Your strength is remarkable. Alas, like all who thinks that the prophecy talks about them, you will perish." He grins ever so slightly, the being now known as Thalion walks with pride, his horns ever so sharp. His claws can be seen from the robe he was wearing, making it look like sharp blades drenched in blood. His tail ever moving slightly, like a wyvern ever ready to pounce upon its target. The six figures ready themselves for a fight they may not survive. 

"Hmm... An Elvish Archer? Your silly little group truly is prepared. I've heard of the abilities of such-" he ducked as he was interrupted by a passing arrow. "We are not here to talk, we are here to end you!" said the Elvish Archer with spite upon her tone. 

"Eager, are thee? Very well." 

With a slight flick of his wrist, a loud screeching noise came upon his fingers. His claws grew as he charges upon the insolent fools who dare challenge him. He first tackled their Dwarvish Paladin, that of whom has the armor to survive the most hits, magic and physical wise. As the Paladin falls upon the ground, he focuses upon the Commonfolk Wizard, who despite his age, has more magical power than the rest, and as such, could definitely cast a powerful spell that can hinder him later. As he charges though, a few arrows fly across his face, merely dodging moments before it hits their mark. That Elvish Archer was prepared, rather, has prepared her high ground. A worthy challenge indeed. As he gazes upon the Elvish Archer, a loud roar from the Lionkin Warrior broke the contact. He swung his axe in continuous motion, not giving much time for Thalion to move past and attack the Wizard of the group. He then hears the chants of a young Wolvenbred Priest, or rather, Priestess, healing the fallen Paladin. As much as he wants to interrupt the Priestess from healing the Paladin, and as much as he wants to harm the now casting Wizard, he is currently being pinned by this barbaric brute. He dodges and dodges, yet this brute is still upon him. He backsteps, placing his hand upon the ground, causing spikes to emerge, hoping that it would pierce this Lionkin Warrior. It only tore a bit of his pauldrons, much to his dismay. Just as he stops casting such a thing though, more arrows fly, barely missing its mark; his head. He has seen five already move, yet there was one missing. 

"The Assassin..." he murmured to himself before quickly dodging more of the combined attacks of the Archer and the Warrior. Just then, he noticed a snare trap, albeit, too late, as the snare catches him off guard. However, much to the disappointment of the Commonfolk Assassin, Thalion recovered too quickly, and thus proceeded to counterattack. He flicked the arrows with his claws and proceeded to rake the Warrior across his chest, scratching through his armor as if it was a hot knife through butter. The Warrior staggers as blood rushes upon his chest. Thalion then gazes on the Wizard, who at this point was still casting, with the Paladin rushing through with his shield ready to bash.

He is torn on who to take on first. Clearly the Wizard is casting a much more powerful spell, but if he turns his back around the Paladin, he would surely be tackled, much like how he tackled him early on. While the Archer can no longer shoot her barrage of arrows due to the Wizard, it would only take one arrow for her to find her mark. If he focuses the Archer on the other hand, there is a chance that the Wizard would cast and bring him down with one spell. And since he does not know what spell the Wizard is casting, it makes it all the more risky, yet if he manages to take out their most skilled comrade, it would be a risk he should take as that would leave everyone open. As the Paladin is slow with all his armor, he could take him down, but it would be a stupid move as he would leave himself open for the Archer and or the Wizard. With thoughts running amongst his brain, and with barely a second to think, he chose to attack the slow casting Wizard. He risks it. He knows that if he stops and tries to cast a spell, he would be shot, that alongside the mostly hidden Assassin, it would not be a risk he would take. So, he went on the physical aspect and tried to stab the Wizard. 

He was closing the distance. 

A few meters, and the Wizard is still casting. Arrows fly by as he dodges by feeling the air around him, a technique taught to him while he was blind for a few days.

The Paladin was almost there, shield in hand, he was almost upon the side of Thalion. 

He can hear their hearts beating fast. 

"Rein Athal'Phete!" 

He stopped. His claws mere inches upon the Wizard. He noticed as the Assassin now has a few mages behind him. He glances upon the Wizard, who sighed in relief, expelling the magical circle upon his feet. The Priestess, a smirk upon her face, let out a huge sigh of relief. 

"What is this?" Thalion said as he tried to move. It then dawned upon him. He was stuck!

"Looks like our plan worked. I knew you were more cautious of me..." The Wizard slumped down, tired after spending all that mana, yet something didn't seem right. "You spent ALL that time to cast a simple Locking Spell... WHAT WERE YOU PLANNING?!" Thalion asked angrily. "It is not me you should ask", the Wizard glances at the now blushing Priestess, "it is her." The Paladin huffs, "You know, before putting that spell on me, I really wanted to at least land a hit!" The Dwarvish Paladin laughs as he hugs the Priestess, making her even more embarrassed. "It was her who casted the Locking Spell. All the Paladin needed to do was to get near you." The Wizard states, with pride in his voice. Thalion then realized why the Priestess was slow in healing the Paladin. Of course, he thought that she was still a novice brought along for minor healing, but now he understood it completely. "Now then, allow me to demonstrate what I had casted." He points at the glowing floor, a large hexagon with runes upon the outsides. Thalion then noticed that the sides of the hexagon had arrows. "Sealing arrows..." Thalion said, allowing his voice to be heard. 

"We know that we can't kill you completely, otherwise, the previous adventurers would've been branded as Heroes. Instead, we opted for a smarter approach. To seal you for eternity!" As the Archer said that, the mages and the Wizard started to chant, each one of them positioned upon the points of the hexagon.

"No... NO!". Thalion shouted, dread upon his eyes. Is this really happening? "I BRING A CURSE UPON YOU! RELEASE ME NOW!" His words were in vain as they continued to cast. Suddenly, chains started to pop out of the ground, clasping his arms and then closing. "With this spell..." the Warrior huffs as he holds his chest to prevent more blood to spew, "you will... be forever trapped in this... miserable tomb. Free of charge... heh heh..." The Priestess then came over and gave the Warrior a Spell of Healing: Cure Wounds. 

Thalion was lashing out, spewing every curse in different tongues. "How the mighty have fallen!" The Assassin mocks.

"You will rue this day... DO YOU HEAR ME? YOU WILL RUE THIS DAY THAT YOU HAVE CONFRONTED ME!!" Thalion, enraged, did not notice another magical aura that soon enveloped him and this "new" tomb of his. However, the rest did not and thought that the one they captured, this ruthless monster, is now casting a spell. And in their very eyes, this new magical aura engulfed the now roaring Thalion, disappearing right before they finish the spell. 

"No... NO! That... thing! Did he disappear? Was that part of the ritual?!" The Archer asked, readying her bow, as did her other comrades. Before the Wizard can talk though, a mage spoke out. "Yes ma'am! It was supposed to happen, though, not in a bright light. Perhaps the God of Light has shone upon us!" While the Wizard wanted to rebuke the younger mage, he was too tired to do so, and thus, accepted it as an act of the Gods. And with that, they cheered. Victory, something that they didn't even believe in when they first got here, is at their grasp. Where they thought that death awaits them, after years of agony, years of losing friends and comrades to a war against evil, after years of treacherous journeys towards the center of evil. Finally, sweet victory... Though, the Wizard was still wary, for that was not the intention of the spell, however, he knows when to stop. He joined his comrades, with one last look behind the castle, and thought to himself, "I hope that the young mage is right about this being an act of the God of Light and that all of this wasn't for naught..." 





Chaos. If there was one word to describe the situation, it was indeed chaos. Buffaloes wearing tutus while dancing ballet, rabbits with giraffe like legs, houses floating and constantly spinning, pink and white tiled terrain, and a giant house of cards. Chaos, or rather, chaotic. With pies raining down, a sudden laugh can be heard. 

"Chaos is a wonderful, wonderful thing!" The amalgamation said sat upon his throne, about to drink and enjoy the glass of chocolate milk. Just then, a young female voice interrupted. "Not as wonderful as Friendship!" A lavender unicorn wearing a tiara stepped forward with her friends at the back, wearing what appears to be necklaces with different symbols. They were all ready to attack judging by the way they carry themselves. "Oh... This again?" The amalgamation drank the glass of the chocolate milk, tossing aside the chocolate milk and causing an explosion. 

"That's right! Yah can't break apart our friendship fer long!" An orange mare with a Stetson said, putting her hoof down. Soon after, her necklace started glowing yellow after being pulled into the amalgamation's grasp of magic. "Oh Applejack, don't lie to me. I'm the one who made you a liar!" The now known Applejack proceeded to struggle from his grasp. As she does so, the beast with a combination of limbs and joints pulls the other necklaces towards him. "Do you ever learn?" 

With a bright light embracing the lavender unicorn, she vanished and reappeared in front of the beast, alongside her now floating friends. She casted a bubble of protection, and lifted them back to the safety of the ground. "I'll tell you what we've learned, Discord! We learned that Friendship isn't always easy," her friends then proceeded to stand by next to her as she continues, "but there's no doubt it's worth fighting for!" 

A thought came to who we now know as Discord, for he can feel something was... off. As if there was an even greater presence being held captive. Being impatient, however, decided to ignore it and lash out on the six ponies in front of him. "Ergghh, gag! Fine, go ahead. Try and use your Elements, frenemies! Just make it quick!" he said, as he vanished and reappeared back in the seat of his throne. Upon his throne, however, he thought about the presence, and decided it would be a last resort for him, should he ever be harmed by these Elements. He then shrugs and speaks out, "I am missing some excellent chaos here!"

"Alright ladies! Let's show him what Friendship can do!" This was then interrupted by a pink mare, who was drinking from the chocolate raincloud. The look they gave her was priceless. Distracted, Discord took this opportunity to see if he can snap this being into this realm, to try and see if such a thing can be used against the Elements. However, he was surprised to see that nothing came out. Again he tried while he still had the time, and again, it failed to pop up. Was there someone intervening with his magic? Just then, a warm lavender light, that of which looks arcane in nature, shone brightly from the mares. Discord feigned a yawn while the Elements activated. As cunning as he is, he was still unsure as to what is happening with his magic. He snapped again, this time on his tail, to prevent them from ever noticing what is happening. As he was doing so, magic beams with the shapes of the Elements shot out from the necklaces and almost struck Discord, who was still lost in thought. Was there something wrong with his magic? "No" he muttered as the mares soon glow with a light that enveloped them. Their eyes glow with a white yet pure light as they float above the ground. In his desperate attempts to summon the said creature to, at least in his head aid him for his escape, he started snapping, focusing his magic time and time again, but to no avail. And with that last struggle, a bright light with all the colors of the rainbow struck him down, turning his body into stone. And with his body now turned into stone, the blinding lights proceeded to undo everything that Discord has done. Discord gravely underestimated the mares before him, and thus, has payed the price.

"We did it, we did it, we did it!" exclaimed the pink mare with an unnaturally puffy mane as puffy as the clouds above her. "Darn tootin', we did!" shouted Applejack, grabbing her Stetson and throwing it above. "Oh dear, I could definitely go for a spa after this... My mane is all disheveled." They all laughed and hugged each other, not aware of what Discord has done. 

For they were not aware that Discord has summoned a being much more terrifying than him.   

Deep upon the shadows of a forest, lies a now buried tomb. One that contains what the N'hirvhannians feared. One that they so greatly sealed upon with magic far greater than any mortal has done. One reserved for the likes of a rogue Prime, should that need ever arise. And upon that shadow of darkness, a pair of deep red eyes open...
> Chapter 1
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Awakening 


And here it begins in Ponyville, a town at the south of Canterlot, where ponies of the three different tribes live together in peace and harmony. From the Pegasi who guarantee good weather, to the Unicorns who produce fine items with their magical abilities, and the Earth Ponies who grant great harvests for all to feast in. It is a town filled with the bustling markets and the joyous cheer of the crowds, from little fillies and colts to the stallions and the mares. It is a peaceful town-

~Whoosh~

Well, almost a peaceful town. A loud screech echoed amongst the crowd who are trying their best to evade a scooter with a wagon hitched behind it as it zooms through. Three fillies of different tribes are present within such a contraption, with whatever plan they have for the rest of the day, though, judging by their initial cheers, it must have been something they were looking forward to. 

"C'mon Scoots! Faster!" A yellow earth pony filly with a bright red mane, a pink bow, and a saddle bag shouted.

"On it, Apple Bloom! Sweetie Belle, hold on tight!" Said the orange pegasus filly, using her small wings as propellers in order to speed up.

"Can you go slower please? You know the wagon's wheel is a bit dama-" the white filly unicorn squeaked as the wagon bolts upwards due to a ramp that they went through. 

And for a moment, they were flying. And then they landed, and with not a single moment to skip, they bolted off yet again. 

"What are those fillies up to again?" An older stallion asked, knowing full well that those three are active enough to enjoy their foalhood. He smiles, shakes his head, and then proceeds to go upon his merry way. 

"We're gonna miss it! We're gonna miss it!" Apple Bloom called out. "What are we even going to miss? It's just herbology..." Scootaloo asked as she continued to propel the scooter and the wagon. "Come on, Scoots, don't be like that! We already talked about this at the clubhouse-" she said, as she was interrupted by Scootaloo. "Yeah, yeah, but it isn't as awesome as skydiving..." As Scootaloo said that, Apple Bloom interjected. "What if we gone and get our cutie marks wrestlin' a giant Fly Trap? Wouldn't that be amazin' too?" Scootaloo smirked, looked at her friend behind her, and said with an enthusiastic tone, "That's... actually awesome!" The three cheered as they went on. 

They continued until they reached a forest, though, this does not seem like a normal forest. It was dark, filled with an aura of danger. "I just hope Zecora's home..." 

They got off their mode of transportation and proceeded on hoof. They made sure not to step on the blue flowers, a bit of fear in their eyes. They treaded cautiously, not uttering a single word until they reach their destination. They know what lurks upon this forest. Beings made of wood that howls upon the moonlit night, a lion like creature with wings and a scorpion-like tail, a beast that turns ponies into stone, and large bears with midnight fur. Indeed, this forest is dangerous. Yet, in order for them to reach their friend Zecora, they would have to venture in such a forest. As they do so, a cauldron of bats flew right over them. This encounter scared them a bit, as they shrieked due to the sudden appearance of bats. Something felt off.

"Is is just me, or is the Everfree Forest a bit more... quiet?" Sweetie Belle asked. The other two turned to look at her, only to realize that she was right. Normally, at this hour, many howls and bird chirps can be heard, yet it seemed as if they wandered into a silent zone. "Ah think... we should hurry." Apple Bloom said, trembling. Not far from where they are now was the house of a zebra, their destination. Quickly, they dashed through the terrifying forest in hopes to be in the presence of Zecora. However, as they do so, Apple Bloom tripped. A slight crack underneath her hooves, Apple Bloom stood, she looked at both her friends, who were looking at her with dread. 

"Apple Bloom. Stay. Calm. Don't move, okay?" Scootaloo said, backing away slowly as she watches the cracks form. She grabbed a branch and quickly went back to her original position. Sweetie Belle, deciding to help, grabbed some vines and made it as a makeshift rope. "Uhh, girls? What's the matter with ya?" Apple Bloom said, not even noticing the ground below her. However, as she stepped forward, she felt a sudden... jolt underneath her. She realized then that her friends were making something for her. It was a means to get out. Panicking, Apple Bloom tried to run the distance as she screamed, however, it was too late as the ground began to collapse. "APPLE BLOOM!" 

Apple Bloom fell. She fell and hit her head, causing her to be knocked out. She woke up at the sounds of water dripping from the ceiling as it echoed around her. She expected a tiny hole, but what she encountered shocked her. It was not a cave. It was a structure of some sort. Strange symbols she has never encountered before filled the only area with light. "Hello? Anyone there?" She asked as she tried to stand, however, it appears that she has sprained her right front fetlock. Still, she does not want to be in the same spot, otherwise, that would make her an easy target. After all, she was still in the Everfree Forest. Slowly, and painfully, she decided to go towards the dimly lit structure. "If there is a safe place, it would probably be there... right?" She murmured to herself as she walked. Soon, however, she felt as if it were a bad idea, as the only light she can see is from behind her. However, she decided to conquer her fears, lest she succumbs and wait in the same position as easy prey for the Timberwolves of this forest. 

"Sweetie Belle? Scootaloo?" She called out, hoping, praying that her friends would answer. Her eyes adjusted quite a bit, though not as much as she would've wanted. As she walked, she bumped into a vase. The vase broke, a loud crash can be heard all around. If the Timberwolves didn't hear her asking for help, then they'd surely hear that. Forcing herself, she decided to run. She ran as fast as she can. She ran, evading multiple indents on the ground, tunnel to tunnel. Eventually though, she finally found light, and with that sign of hope, she dashed. At the end of the tunnel was a room with a hole above the ceiling. Perhaps this is her chance to escape. However, her right hoof gave in as she collapsed inside the room. She sighed, she breathed, for she knew she was temporarily safe. 

That was... until she heard a growl behind her.

She slowly turned around.

She closed her eyes, and as she opened them, a pair of deep red eyes peered into her soul. She did not move, for she was too terrified. This was not a creature of the Everfree, and she knew it. 






Five thousand years, trapped in that void. 

For five thousand years, he was alone with his thoughts. His inner demons. He had time to think about his mistake in that final fight. He had time to think about what he could've done. He thought long and hard, making sure to simmer down with the provocation. Should he meet those fools again, he wouldn't be easily caught off guard. He expected them to try and kill him, where all others have failed. And while they tried to at first, they didn't, and decided to simply seal him away. It was not supposed to happen that way. All he wants was a worthy foe that can end his misery and finally find peace. Misery that he long harbored and peace he longed for. Yet all failed. They stabbed him, crushed him, drowned and blinded him. And yet, he lives. Yet for five thousand years, he still had hatred. Hatred for those who did him wrong. Hatred to the races who sealed him. Hatred. A rather small and insignificant word for something so huge. He vowed that he would kill any mortal who comes in his way the moment he is free.

Then he felt a sudden jolt. Where he was floating on a void with not a single lingering light in sight, now finds himself underneath the earth. He could feel it. And then, he saw light. The warm light of the sun, out of his reach due to the chains that bound him. He was feeling the pull of gravity. He knows all too well that he is buried underneath, as he saw dirt and grass fall from the hole above. Perhaps this would be more uneventful. 

A few days later, as he stared at the barely visible horizon above, he heard a loud scream. "APPLE BLOOM!" Perhaps someone's pet fell. He could hear them panic and call out to this... "Apple Bloom" being. And then, they left. Strange... Though, they did sound like children. Calling the adults would be the smartest choice. He shrugged and proceeded to take a nap. After all, that is all that he can do. And then, he heard a call. So... this being is awake. This being called out other names, "Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo". Are they perhaps pets as well? At the thought of that, he remembered Lugris. He remembers this Sporekin friend of his naming his pet birds random objects. 

"Cherry Wing." He chuckled and returned to his serious demeanor as he heard a loud crash. He then heard footsteps — or rather, ones made of hooves. The being, now tired, collapsed in front of him. He can hear it breathe in and out, calming itself. Perhaps this is the pet. An equine, albeit a small one. Perhaps a foal. He growled, amassing all the attention for himself. He now has a better look at the equine. Short and small, it was indeed a foal, though he was not sure of what species. It was far too small for a horse, really small for a Djinguuran, and really big for a Timisk. Perhaps a pony foal sits in front of him. It squeaked, much like how a terrified little girl does when she sees a large dog. Perhaps this foal is a filly. And since she was the only being with him, he now knows that this being can speak. The filly is scared, terrified even. He noticed that the filly was injured, as he watches her limp whilst backing away.

"Althar uin, sanguine?" Thalion asked. The filly just cocked her head. It was... cute. If there was one species he would spare back at his homeland, it would be the animals. Animals ran on instinct. They do not cause others to suffer for the mere sake of it. Unlike the races he encountered, who would kill for money and toss aside the body, or would hunt prey just for the mere collection and trophies, animals were pure, despite some hunting, and he understood this. Well, at least the filly understood that he was talking. He learned to speak with animals at a young age. He was taught by his mother, after all. So, Elvishkin tongue did not work. This would imply that the filly did not belong to the Elves.

"Dar graan, equus?" He spoke in Dwarvish tongue. This made the filly curious. She gathered her energy, her breath, and her courage, and she spoke. "Uhh... hi?" 

"Ah, so she is of Commonfolk. Perhaps her masters are up there, looking for this filly." He thought to himself. He leaned down at the filly, who he assumed can only see his eyes. After all, the shadow that envelops him is strong enough to hide his true presence. With an exhale, he discarded his shadow cloak, allowing the filly to see him in his tattered state. "Who are you, pony?" He asked once more, this time in Commontongue. This gets a reaction from the filly. Albeit scared, she answered while limping towards him. "Ah'm... Apple Bloom. Please don't hurt me, sir." He watches as the filly lies on her stomach and cover her eyes, allowing herself to cry. "What a rare occurrence. A pony filly crying natural tears. This would definitely sell better than those farmed equine tears." He grimaced at the thought. He then leaned in closer, well, as close as he can get, and spoke with a calm tone. "Fear not, little Apple Bloom. You are safe here." She looks up at him, and she got a closer look. He had teeth growing on the sides of his cheeks. His horns were ragged yet equal in height. "Ya have a really long mane!" She chuckled, though short-lived as she winced in pain as her hoof began to ache. Thalion saw this and whispered something. A small circle underneath Apple Bloom appeared. It glowed a warm, yellow light and it healed her sprained fetlock. The look on her face showed it all. Confusion, with a touch of gratitude. She hopped in place before remembering where she was. She looked at the strange creature before noticing the chains. And before she could speak, the creature, as if knowing what she was about to ask, answered. "I was sealed here by my enemies." 

She looked at the creature. "Enemies? But why would they do that to ya? Yer a kind creature mister... uhhh... What is yer name?" She asked innocently without any malice, and as such, he gave her his name. "My dear little Apple Bloom, I am he who is known as Thalion," he paused as he thought of different outcomes. If there were indeed Commonfolk above, then stating his name would be disastrous. Those "heroes" might come for him again, and he hasn't found a way to combat that Locking Spell. However, five thousand years have been a long time. Perhaps these Commonfolk do not remember the wars that he invoked. And so, he made his decision. "I am he who protects and vanquish evil. I am he who is feared by the old evils. The utterance of my name sends shivers down their bones." As he said those, the eyes of the filly widen. "Tell me more, tell me more!" He looks at the filly. Perhaps she can set him free. This filly and her family would be spared, should he rise once more. He knows that there are equines trained to be loyal, and would never abandon their masters, so, if her family is still untrained, then they shall be under his care. 

Thalion sighs. "I am currently sealed within this place, to which I apologize. In my current understanding, you fell here, little filly, and with that, you hurt your fetlocks." He glances at the now sad looking filly. "All I need to do is to break these chains, though, I am in no power to do so." He looked around at this room. He then spoke once more, "There is a way to break these chains though." Apple Bloom looked at him, and asked innocently, "Can't Ah just break these here chains?" Thalion laughed at this and immediately apologized. "Apple Bloom, while I appreciate your willingness to break these chains, it is not that simple." He glances at the chains that bind him. "These chains are magical in nature. You need to break the seals. Though, judging from the sound before, you probably broke a few of them already. That and you are not yet strong enough to break it physically." Apple Bloom then pondered... "Hmm... So if the seals are located in these here vases... then all Ah need to do to get ya outta there is to destroy all the vases!" She squeaked, knowing that she can break things without getting reprimanded by her sister. 

A few minutes later, one final vase remains. Before she destroyed it though, she asked Thalion about it. "Why are ya sealed with vases anyway? Did they think somepony wouldn't destroy the vases?" Thalion smirked and answered honestly. "It's because the seal was not finished." Satisfied with that answer, she kicked the last vase, and the seal was undone. Though, the chains were still on his arms. 

"Nothin' happened..." She looks down, utterly defeated. Then, Thalion called upon her. "Apple Bloom. I've seen your kicking prowess, and has such deemed you strong enough to kick these chains." She smiled, and then kicked the chains, causing it to break. And with that, he is free. Free once again. He looked at a now tired Apple Bloom. Though the cuffs were still there, he did not mind it. He will use that once he returns to reclaim his world. He picks up Apple Bloom and places her on his head, a little kind thing to do as he does not want the filly to walk. "Now then, to leave this cursed tomb." 

"YEAH!" She shouted, then looked down at Thalion. "Sorry." And with that, they are now walking towards the hole above the ceiling. With a powerful jump from Thalion, the both of them are now outside.





A tiny little ribbon with a bit of blood was left upon the entrance.
Perhaps one would realize that it is of importance.
A sign of struggle, a sign of loss,
Perhaps the little filly is no longer one with thoughts.
> Chapter 2
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------







A Tale of Ruins


"APPLE BLOOM!" The two young fillies cried out in horror as they saw their friend fall into the sinkhole. "Apple Bloom! Can you hear me?!" Scootaloo asked worriedly, her fears realized when there was no answer. The forest was quiet, so too was her friend. "Oh no, no, no... Please no..." Sweetie Belle gasped, as she saw a bit of blood smudge in between some rocks. She knew then that her friend was injured. "Scootaloo, we need to get help!" 

"But what about Apple Bloom? We can't just leave her there!" Scootaloo cried, her emotions getting the best of her. She was shaking vigorously, ashamed that she can't just fly down there and pick up her fallen friend. "Scootaloo! The more we stay here," she paused for a second, looking back at where her friend had fallen, "the more she gets hurt!" She then points to the tiny smudge of red on the otherwise stone grey rocks. "She might be bleeding!" As soon as Scootaloo saw the blood, she gagged, covered her face, and cried a bit more. Sweetie Belle walked towards her and comforted her crying friend. "We need to get help. Let's mark this place with some sticks, okay?" Scootaloo sniffed as she looked at her friend. "Okay..." And they did just that. They marked it so that they couldn't miss it. They only had themselves once they were done marking the place. And then they ran. All they could do was hope for the best, that no Timberwolf would harm their friend as they left. They ran as fast as they could, in search of help. Sweetie Belle wanted to grab her sister as well as Apple Bloom's sister to ensure that Apple Bloom would be in the hooves of the ponies she knew.

As they returned to the clearing where they parked their scooter and wagon, they were exhausted. And yet, they pushed on. They forgot their transportation in the midst of their panic, for their friend's life was on the line. They ran and ran, and by sheer coincidence, they met the ones they needed.





It was a beautiful day for Applejack. She finished tending to her orchard, and got herself a free day. However, she was still aching to do more chores around the house. Granny Smith and Big Mac got together and told her off to get herself a darn holiday, and as such, she went to do just that. "Heya sis!" A sweet little voice she loves called out. "Apple Bloom! Ya gonna go with the rest today?" Applejack asked, a slight chuckle escaping her. She then ruffled her little sister's mane, much to the chagrin of her little sister. They then both laughed. "Ah am! We're gonna do Herbology! Ah just can't wait to get mah own cutie mark on that!" Her excitement melted the heart of Applejack, simply giving her little sister a nuzzle. "You be safe now, ya hear? Ah'm sure yer gonna get that cutie mark of yers in no time!" Apple Bloom giggled, and ran towards her friends, giving Apple Jack a wave of goodbye.

"Now then, for that 'relaxin' business." She grumbled, and then headed off towards town. The town was crowded, cheers and chatter fill the streets. She walked past stallions going towards a bowling alley, she walked past a wall-eyed mailmare delivering what appears to be an upside down box to a brown stallion, and she walked past a pink blur... 

Well, she walked by her, but not before the pink blur grabbed her and gave her the biggest hug. "Heh, hiya Pinkie Pie!" The pink pony with a mane as puffy as the clouds giggled. "HELLOO APPLEJACK!" Pinkie Pie screamed, then shook Applejack. "Today's gonna be the bestest, most amazingest, time in the history of time, EVER!" She squeaked, bouncing up and down and around Applejack. She then grabbed a cannon and pulled the rope, exploding a lot of confetti to cover Applejack. Applejack giggled at Pinkie Pie's antics. She then noticed four more mares going in her direction. "Hello, darlings! Oh, what beautiful weather we are having today!" The white unicorn said, with a flamboyant tone. She flicked her mane, and swayed to the right. "I must say, it is quite rare for you, Applejack, to be here without your apple cart..." She gasped. "Are you perhaps having a day off?" Applejack sighed "Mornin' ta ya too, Rarity." She then looked at a yawning cyan pegasus, floating on a white fluffy cloud. The cyan pegasus then stretched, as she began to fly and hover, whisking away her cloud. "Good morning to you, Ponyville! Oh and, to you too, I guess." She smirked as she landed on the road. "Good ta see that yer active, Rainbow Dash." Applejack snickered as she pointed at a messy rainbow mane, to which the cyan pegasus blushed. Rainbow Dash was not pleased. With a flick, she fixed her messy mane and began to fly once again. "Good morning, girls..." A yellow pegasus said as she was holding her mane. "Mornin' ta ya too, Fluttershy. Honestly, Ah thought ya were gonna be at yer house today." The yellow pegasus chirped with an ever so quiet voice. "I was... um, planning to meet you girls, um, at Twilight's library today and, uh, well, I... followed Twilight out." Fluttershy's voice trailed out on the last sentence, but it was still audible enough for everypony in the group to hear. 

Then, a lavender unicorn smiled and looked upon her friends. "Good morning, girls! Since we are all here, perhaps we can go around town and find a nice picnic place?" Everypony cheered, including a huffing little dragon. "Spike! What time is it? Are we still following the designated time protocol?" The young dragon huffed, tired from walking, perhaps a bit sleepy as well. Groggily, he answered. "It's nine in the morning, Twi..." He yawned and then proceeded to speak again, "Could you at least go a bit slower?" Twilight looked down at Spike, nuzzling his little head. "I'm sorry Spike, I am just excited... is all. Heheh." She then knelt down, allowing the tiny dragon to climb onto her back.

It was a rather enjoyable walk for Applejack and the group. They went to find the perfect place to set up their picnic, and they found it. Right by Fluttershy's cottage lies a secret grove, one she often visits to simply escape from her worries. As they prepared their picnic blankets and their baskets, they heard a muffled howl from the Everfree Forest. Not paying much attention to the howls coming from the Everfree, they proceeded to follow Fluttershy. Then, with the sheer silence that followed, they heard hoofsteps running towards the open area. They saw who made them, two exhausted fillies running away from the forest. They then realized that it was not a howl, but rather, a scream. The two fillies ran and ran and ran, hoping that they could go even further beyond their limits. The mares saw this and decided to intervene in this little marathon. "Woah there squirt! What's the hurry?" Rainbow Dash said, with a bit of worry as she placed her hoof on the head of Scootaloo. Rarity did so as well as she hugged her little sister, not realizing the problem. They were crying. They were tired. Applejack then realized that her sister was missing.

"Where's Apple Bloom?" She asked, panicking. The two fillies looked at each other, tears in their eyes, and then explained the situation. The look of terror in Applejack's eyes said it all. 





They ran as they followed the directions of the fillies behind their backs. Specifically, Sweetie Belle was on Rarity's back while Scootaloo was on Rainbow's. They ran and eventually found the hole. It was as the fillies explained. It was a very deep, ragged hole with the only light shining unto it was the sun's. "Apple Bloom! Where are ya?!" Applejack exclaimed. Her heart sinking as there was no response. Rainbow Dash flew down to check if there was an unconscious filly, hoping deep down that Apple Bloom was there, resting. However, her hopes were broken as she only found a little pink ribbon. She was about to fly back up when she felt a bit of a draft coming from behind. She then notices a strange structure, one that can only be found in those fantasy books that Twilight reads. Symbols carved in ancient runes. It was eerie. 

She flew back to her friends and gave Applejack the ribbon. Applejack, who normally hid her tears, wept at the sight. She couldn't believe it. Before the others could console her though, Rainbow Dash commented on the weird structure that she saw. With this new information, their hopes grew. Maybe, just maybe, Apple Bloom is in that "structure", safe and sound. 

As they ventured into the unknown, they were met with chills as there was indeed a structure never before seen. One that breathes "ancient". With a quick cast of light from the two unicorns, they mustered their courage and proceeded to go deeper into the depths of the unknown.








The sounds of water dripping from the ceiling echoes around the ancient structure, with their hoofsteps breaking most of the sound of silence. Broken shards from ancient vases can be seen, yet there is no sign of a filly anywhere. Paper were scattered amongst the floor with no writings whatsoever. Runes carved on the wall with no apparent context. What bothered Twilight the most was that this ruined structure did not seem to belong to any of the pony civilizations who once lived here. None of these match what she remembers from her books containing history. It is as if this did not even exist. She scribbled down notes along with Spike while also focusing on the main task at hoof: finding Apple Bloom. Twilight then ordered Spike to take a letter. As the dragon finished writing, he blew fire upon the parchment, allowing it to be engulfed in flames. The smoke then travelled to where they once came in. And with that, Spike continued to walk alongside Twilight as they try and find the missing filly. They followed the blood trails of the filly, noting that she might have had a hard time navigating if she broke a vase whilst going right. Rarity then noticed a bunch of blue gems that even she did not know existed. They were extremely light yet somehow hard. She then noticed something flickering inside the gems. She showed it to Twilight and simply described it as "flames within a crystal". She then looked back to a furious yet tired Applejack and decided that it would be rather uncouth of her to focus on such a thing when sweet Apple Bloom is missing. 

And then, the blood trail stopped. It stopped at a room with a hole on the ceiling, light dimly enveloping that specific area. As they continued to search through the room, they noticed that the blood trail stopped directly in front of some chains. Broken chains. Fear arose from the ponies, as they now knew that there was some creature on the loose. Behind those chains was some sort of a sarcophagus, but this sarcophagus was broken.

When Applejack saw the blood trail stop, her whole world stopped. In the midst of chaos, she thought of an outcome. One that every mare had within that very moment. Apple Bloom is gone. With a heavy heart, Applejack decided to leave. "Applejack..." Fluttershy whispered, knowing full well that Applejack would not listen. Their friend was hurt, and with the loss of a sweet and innocent soul, they too were hurt. Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo could no longer hold back their tears. They wept for their friend. A once cheerful Pinkie Pie now deflates with utter despair. Her once poofy mane now turned flat.

The sun is on the verge of setting, and the night is nearing. The walk towards Ponyville was quiet and filled with dread and sorrow. As much as they wanted to comfort Applejack, no words came from their mouths. They languished in the silence. What monster could've done this to a sweet and innocent little filly? They decided to follow Applejack back home. Applejack, while silent, thanked them for being with her. She does not know what to say or what to do. This day was supposed to be perfect! How could she face Big Mac and Granny Smith? How could she face her family? How could she face her ma and pa, if she ever passes on? These thoughts lingered in her mind. Night soon came and they reached their destination, Sweet Apple Acres. Whatever happens, she needs to tell her family of the loss that they have suffered. They need to know, and she has her friends with her to try and ease them in...

As they entered the premises however, they felt something... odd. Something was in there with them, yet they can't see it. Twilight and Rarity especially, as they were both unicorns. They were detecting something within the farm. However, they shrugged it off as mere tricks upon their minds as they have encountered death at the moment. Maybe they were sensitive at this moment? 

Applejack sighed. She continued on, not really caring about that strange sensation. She knocked at the door. "Granny? Big Mac? Ah'm home..."
> Chapter 3
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------







Return


Seeing trees and foliage once again filled him with relief, even if the forest is filled with dread. He breathed, no longer bound by chains. By some miracle, a filly landed in his tomb and freed him from that wretched place. He cursed that Wizard for many years as he stared at the same spot for many years. And with this filly, he knew that the Primes were still with him. He walked westward with haste, for he did not know the dangers of this place. Ever confident in his skills, however, he thought to himself that should danger ever arise, he would destroy it with ease. And with a filly atop his head, he would not allow any danger to befall her. Whilst walking through, he noticed that the forest was silent. Even a dreaded forest like this should have a bit of ambient noise. Checking his surroundings, he made sure to at least detect a few creatures. He whispered something and his slit irises started to rotate like that of a goat's. With his now heightened senses, he managed to find a few wolf-like creatures, trembling in his presence. It appears that his arrival has decimated the fragile ecosystem. However, the filly atop his head continued on, stating her friends and family. 

"And then, there's Spike! He's a dragon, and he's Twilight's assistant! Ya should meet 'em, he's really friendly!" He stopped and pondered as he asked Apple Bloom about it. "Pray tell, little Apple Bloom, is this dragon friend of yours huge?" Apple Bloom replied shortly, "Nah, he ain't. He's just a baby dragon, after all." He nodded and asked yet another question. "Are his wings developing?" Apple Bloom then looked down at the eyes of her ride. "Eenope. He ain't got no wings last time Ah checked!" He nodded sagely, and then he spoke. "Ah, then perhaps he is a young drake." She cocked her head, amusing the mount. "What's a drake?" Apple Bloom asked, almost falling out of his head. He chuckled and gave a sigh. "A drake is simply a wingless dragon, dear Apple Bloom. Is your world not well versed with the different types of Dragonkin?" He looked at the now confused filly. "Eenope..." She glanced left to right, trying to find a specific answer. Thalion sighed and gave Apple Bloom a tired look. She is but a filly, after all. "I suppose I would teach you and your family about it. It might save you in a dire situation." Apple Bloom then giggled. "Yer mane really is long, Thaly!" He glanced upward and asked, "Thaly?"

"It's yer nickname." 

"Ah, I see. Normally my nickname would be Kirsh'nen..." He was then greeted with an upside-down filly on his face. "What kinda nickname is Ki- uhh, Krishinen?" He chuckled as he answered. "Kirsh'nen means Bottled Fire. In my culture, a bottled fire means one who has a large desire. It was a nickname given to me by my mother..." He then looked at the ground. "It's a... special nickname." Apple Bloom, ever the innocent filly, patted Thalion. She knew how that felt. "Ah'm sorry..." She knew that Thalion had lost his mother, something that she understood even without an explanation. "You need not apologize, Apple Bloom. It had been at least a few millennium, after all." Quickly changing the subject, he asked Apple Bloom if her family had ever encountered his kind before. The filly shook her head. He then remembered this young drake she spoke of. As such, he decided that there is one thing to do. He grabbed Apple Bloom and placed her on the ground. As he did, he knelt, his arms stretched and elongated. Spikes appeared on his back; his neck twisted and shifted upwards. His head transformed into that of a large reptilian creature, with his horns growing alongside him. His chains were still around his claws. He then looked at a now shocked Apple Bloom, with her mouth wide open. He leaned down and said, "Be not afraid, Apple Bloom. It is still me."

"Yer... Yer a dragon?!" He chuckled. "I am known as a Greater Dragon. Common Dragons do not talk, nor do they possess intelligence. They act with their instincts guiding them. Though, my form is that of which they call a wyvern. Dragons typically have four legs and a pair of wings, much like the pegasi you mentioned." He was massive. Had he stayed that way, there would be no doubt that panic would have been ensured within the Commonfolk. He then cast a bit of his own magic in order to shrink down in size, allowing himself to be as tall as the Djinguuran equines in his homeland. As he finished his spell, he grabbed an awestruck Apple Bloom with his claws and placed her on his head once more. She squeaked and hopped on his head. She then grabbed the two horns in front of her as she giggled with delight. She was on top of a dragon! They proceeded to venture forward, finally seeing what appeared to be a barn. "Are your masters in that area?" Thalion asked, hiding his tone so as not to scare the filly. "Ah'm not sure what you mean by masters, but Granny and Big Mac are there." She paused for a second and then spoke, "Mah sister too, but Ah think she's with her friends." She then had a thought as she gasped. "Ah never told ya about the Elements of Harmony!"

"Oh? Do tell. What are these 'Elements of Harmony' you speak of?" Thalion asked with a bit of curiosity. Perhaps these are artifacts that he can use soon. If it does give harmony, perhaps he might use that to control those pesky lowlife filth. "Mah sister is one of 'em! She's the Element of Honesty!" She gleamed with pride as she spoke. Thalion then stopped walking. He hummed, pondering what she had just said. "Perhaps I can use them for my plans. If I play my cards right, if I play as the hero, perhaps they can help me end the war once and for all." He thought to himself. He then asked with an innocent tone. "Tell me, does your sister have an artifact alongside her?" Apple Bloom then spoke, looking downwards on Thalion. "She has this necklace thingy. It only works with the others, though." He then nodded, confirming his theory. 

Then, with a few dashes, they were now standing in an orchard. He glanced at the trees that bore fruit. "Ya must be hungry, huh? Ya said ya were there for five thousand years, right?" Hunger was the last thing he was thinking about. He was in the territory of Commonfolk farmers, ones that looked like they came from the northern city of Ardien. This type of barn can only be seen there. He sat down, leaning his head on the ground, allowing the filly to get down. He then looked at the fruits. "Welcome to mah family's orchard, Sweet Apple Acres!" She stood on her hind legs while she stretched her front hooves to the side. A welcoming gesture indeed.

Thalion then looked around. Trees that bore fruit of different colors were organized and planted in rows.

"Mirthas. You have quite a lot of mirthas..." Apple Bloom then cocked her head. "Mirthas? Ohh, Ah get it! It's what ye call these here apples from where ye came from, huh?" She giggled and then bucked a tree. She frowned soon afterwards when no fruit fell. Thalion then proceeded to pick an "apple" and gave it to the little filly. "Here, eat a bit. I'll get one too for myself, so do not worry." He did so as he picked another one and ate it. It was... refreshing. Five thousand years of no food and no water, and these fruits have quenched both. Apple Bloom looked upon the hungry dragon as she ate one of the apples too. Then, she craved more. She didn't realize that she was this hungry. Seeing this, Thalion picked a lot more apples and gave them to Apple Bloom. 

Then, they heard someone speak. "Apple Bloom!" A deep voice echoed from the top of a hill. He was about to assume his battle stance when he realized that the voice came from a stallion. "Big Mac!" Apple Bloom rushed towards her brother and hugged him. She then told the stallion about what happened to her, and how Thalion saved her. Thalion sat on the ground as he listened to the little filly explain with haste, his right arm crossed over the other. He was looking at them. The red stallion then walked towards him. He was shaking a bit, but he still braced himself. "Thank ya kindly... For savin' mah little sister." Thalion knew that this was a stallion of few words. As such, he bowed to him and said, "You need not force yourself to thank me, Big Mac. She released me from my dreadful prison, I released her from my tomb." The red stallion chuckled as he spoke, "Eeyup!" 

He then glanced around, expecting this to be a trap, yet for some reason, there were no such things. He didn't want to scare the newly acquainted stallion, so he closed his eyes and activated his heightened senses. No Commonfolk around... He opened them again, only to find two curious ponies looking at him. "Are ya... alright?" Big Mac asked. "I was thinking of something. These 'apples' just made me realize how long it had been since I had food." He lied as naturally as he breathed, for he was checking where those bloody Commonfolk were. Could this be an illusion? With haste, he stood up and cast a barrier, shocking the two ponies. And yet, nothing changed. He sighed as he turned towards the ponies. "I apologize for the tiny scare. I just thought there was an illusion going on. My enemies did something like this before, and as such, I just wanted to be prepared." This time, however, he told the truth. 

It was mundane, meeting the older mare. She was quick and witty while still being senile. She offered the heroic dragon an apple pie, one that he appreciated. With no threats from the Commonfolk, perhaps he could manage to do one thing he had dreamed about. Finding peace. 

It would seem Apple Bloom was all tuckered out. It was quite an adventure, after all. Before she slept, though, Thalion made sure to make her memorize what he said. "Meeting here t'morrow, exactly at 7:30! Elements of Harmony to meet the one known as thee!" She said with glee, saying her farewells as she leapt towards her bed. As the sun began to set, he found a nice little place surrounded by these apple trees. He refused to sleep, as it was all he did when he was sealed. He was free, but he would not risk flying above the clouds. It might scare the populace.

He then noticed eight figures walking towards the barn. He glared at them, making sure that his presence was known whilst being hidden. Two of which were fillies, much like Apple Bloom. There were two earth ponies, two pegasi, and two unicorns, all of which seemed... depressed. They then shuddered as they tried to pinpoint where he was. Surprisingly, one of the earth ponies with what appeared to be some sort of hat did not even bother to try and find him. He then heard the earth pony with a hat speak.

"Granny? Big Mac? Ah'm home..." 

The rest then followed her inside.





Applejack walked inside the barn. What greeted her were two ponies talking to each other like nothing ever happened. Well, nothing that they know of. "Applejack, welcome home, deary! Finally had that time to yerself after weeks o' hard work. Best not let that get on yer head though. T'morrow ya start with work again, ya hear? I ain't raisin' a lazy farm here-" She stopped as she noticed Applejack and the rest of her friends were silent. "Oh dears, what's wrong?"

Applejack fell to the floor. She could not bear it anymore. "Granny! Ah'm sorry! Ah couldn't save her! She's gone! Mah dear sister's gone!" She let out a wail, one that she swore would never do again. It was painful to watch. Sweetie Belle hugged her sister, as did Scootaloo, who was hugging Rainbow Dash. Rarity looked at her sister and hugged her tight. Helping her up, Granny Smith led them to the living room, allowing Applejack to take a seat. Applejack then explained the situation. She placed the bow at the table, her hoof shaking as she did so. She held her head. Fear and despair were in her eyes. She lost a family member. 

Everyone grieved. It was silent-

"What are ya talkin' about, ya crazy whipper-snapper! Get up from that there seat and pull yerself together!" She grunted. Big Mac, who stood behind Granny Smith, was at a loss for words. Even he was confused.

"H-huh?" Applejack muttered. This was not the reaction she expected. Nor was it the reaction her friends expected. "What's with all that commotion?" Apple Bloom yawned and went to the living room. Rubbing her eyes, she spoke, "Ah haven't even slept for an hour and it's noisy in here!" She then saw her sister. Before she could speak another word, however, everyone in unison shouted, "APPLE BLOOM!"

A mix of joy and laughter filled the room, with most asking questions while some hugged the poor filly. The once flat mane of Pinkie Pie returned to her now puffy mane. Apple Bloom giggled at the attention she was gathering. Applejack, on the other hand, did not seem happy. She slammed her hoof down on the table, causing everypony to look at her. What they saw before them was a furious mare. "Apple Bloom! Do ye even REALIZE what ye've put me through? How worried Ah was for ye?" The older mare stopped right in front of the filly. "Ah thought ye were... Ah thought..." Apple Bloom shuddered. She realized that she had made her sister cry. She felt awful. "Ah'm sorry, Ah didn-" With tears in her eyes, Applejack grabbed her sister and hugged her. "Don't ya EVER do that again!" She nuzzled her sister, letting her Stetson fall to the ground.

As Applejack released her sister from a bone-crushing hug, Rarity asked the question that everyone wanted to know. "How did you escape from such an awful place? There were blood stains and some broken chains..." She shuddered at the thought. Apple Bloom then pondered for a bit. "Oh yeah! Ah was limpin' and there was blood on mah head. Then Ah tumbled into a room." She was interrupted by Twilight as this piqued her interest. "Were the chains already broken or was there something contained in them? We noticed a sarcophagus as well-" A cough can be heard. "And some fine gems, if I do say so myself." Interrupted Rarity. "Right... The sarcophagus was broken. Perhaps the structure was a tomb of some sort."

"Hold on, hold on, Ah'm getting there!" Apple Bloom pouted. She then inhaled. "So Ah was limpin' and then Ah broke a vase. Ah then ran 'cause Ah didn't want them Timberwolves to catch me. And then, Ah stumbled in these here room. And then, this here creature was behind me. And then, he healed me and then we talked, and that's how Ah got out!" She smiled so innocently. 

"Now wait just a moment here, Apple Bloom. Yer tellin' us that a chained creature helped ye escape?" Apple Bloom giggled. "Eeyup! Ah helped him break out!" Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo were amazed by their friend's feat. Rainbow Dash shuddered at the thought of an ancient beast terrorizing Ponyville. However, she kept her cool in front of her number one fan. "I must say, if this creature had those wonderful gems, then it would have some bit of taste." Rarity said, much to the chagrin of Spike. Twilight then went in front of Apple Bloom and asked. "Do you know why this creature was sealed? Perhaps it was the guardian of the tomb, but we would never know." Apple Bloom then remembered what Thalion said, but before she told them, she responded to Twilight in a surprisingly somber tone. "He was sealed..." She then looked around the others. "He was sealed for five thousand years, or well, that's what he told me." This revelation shocked everypony except the elderly mare and the tall stallion among them. "FIVE THOUSAND?!" There was a collective gasp. "That's older than Princess Celestia AND Princess Luna combined!" Twilight shrieked, a bit of her mane disheveled. "This HAS to be one of the greatest archeological discovery of ALL TIME!" Twilight said, making the pink pony laugh and giggle. "Oooh! I wonder if mister creature knows what a party is!" She then gasped and grabbed Apple Bloom. "HE KNOWS WHAT A PARTY IS, RIGHT?" She said as she shook the poor filly. "Ah don't think he would like that... He was in a war. It's what caused him to be sealed in that there tomb in the first place." Everypony was silent. "Was he with the good guys?" Rainbow asked, wanting to know more about this creature. "If Ah recall correctly, he did say he was 'he who protects and vanquish evil'. He also said that utterin' his name would bring fear to the baddies." This made Rainbow perk up. If he was indeed an ancient being, then she would be talking to a legendary hero. "That... is... AWESOME!" 

Apple Bloom finally told them about what Thalion said. "Ah just remembered! If ye want more answers, he's willin' to meet y'all!" Granny Smith, Big Mac, and Apple Bloom then said with perfect synchronicity, "Meeting here t'morrow, exactly at 7:30! Elements of Harmony to meet the one known as thee!" The three then giggled as Big Mac ruffled his little sister's mane. "Looks like we'll get to meet this ancient one. I'm so excited! Spike, get the paper and ink ready; we're going to have a great time tomorrow!" Spike rolled his eyes. "Uh huh, sure Twilight..." This made everyone giggle, but they themselves are excited too. Applejack mostly, as she wanted to thank this creature for not only healing her little sis, but also for saving her. The rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders were getting restless. They want to meet this creature who saved their friend. Rarity wanted to inquire about those gems and some silk that she found. Pinkie Pie, ever the party planner, wants to make sure that this creature would get the best, most amazing "Thank you for saving Apple Bloom and Welcome to Ponyville! Sorry about you being sealed" party. Rainbow Dash wanted to meet a hero, maybe even ask about cool techniques to fight evil. Fluttershy, despite being terrified about meeting a new creature, wanted to meet him since he was kind enough to save Apple Bloom, let alone heal her wounds despite being chained. As with Twilight, she wanted to know more about this creature. Why was he sealed? Did evil prevail when they sealed him? So many questions...

"Oh, by the way. He might be a tad bit, ya know, scary. It's why he shrunk himself to the size of Princess Celestia. If ye want to, ye can ask him to change back to his true size! He was massive!" Spike gulped at the thought. "What is he, a dragon?" He chuckled along with the rest of the ponies. "Eeyup! Though, he said he was a Greater Dragon." Then they looked at the filly. "What? Anyways, Ah'll be yer guide!" She chuckled and then went upstairs. "Good night, y'all!" She said, innocently. 





Whispers and mutters can be heard on the table, where twelve beings sit. Each one bearing a mark, a banner behind them, their soldiers and trusted second-in-commands with them. The twelve beings did not speak.

Just then, a massive door opened. Behind that door was a tall being with some sort of hat covering its face. Deep purple eyes emerged from across the room, filling it with silence.

"Proceed with the affairs. Make haste." A rather short being next to the threatening monster ordered. 

And thus, the meeting has begun. 
> Chapter 4
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






Of Meetings and Interviews, Part One


When the door is opened, a loud screeching noise can be heard. On the other side of the door, a tall figure with what appears to be a deep purple hat, stands. His glowing purple eyes stand in contrast to the shadow cloak that he has. He breathed in deeply as he walked forwards. The mere sight of him made the twelve beings sitting on the chairs cower. He walked towards the empty seat, a large throne-like structure, yet he did not sit in it. He nodded at his aide, prompting the aide to speak.

"Proceed with the affairs. Make haste." The short Goblin stated. 

Silence grew as the figure walked towards the windows, looking at the moonlit sky. Two moons were in full view for everyone to see. The Goblin then prompted the messengers to continue with a flick of his hands. "By request of Lord Izerius of the Insektons, more food for the Beetlemirs of the Southern outpost." The Insekton messenger then closed his scroll, awaiting a response. Much to the dismay of the lord present in the meeting, there was no response. "By request of Lady Tigrea of the Stripedmark, more minerals for the ironworkers of her army." The Stripedmark messenger fixed his gaze on his mistress before closing his scroll. He saw his mistress filled with wrath when there was no response. "Lady M'rhea of Lamianfae requests an audience about the encroaching armies under the banner of the Light of Defiance. It is of the utmost importance." Much like the other messengers before her, there was no response. The messenger slithered next to her mistress. A messenger spoke reluctantly. "Master Tyr of the Orcrins would like an audience regarding the captured city of Mith'urn. He wants to know if he can ask for more troops to defend the captured city. After all, this city is known for its forging equipment." With silence meeting the messenger, a loud thud struck the stone table. Lord Karakk'en of the Electrocephalopods struck the table with his powerful tentacles. He was pissed. "Why bother calling us and asking us about our problems if we are not given a definite answer!" He said, glaring at the being gazing at the moons. Unbeknownst to all of them, however, the goblin was writing all about their problems and requests.

The Great Dragonkin Lord then stepped onto the stone table. "Where is our Master anyway? He should've been here hours ago!" A loud, thundering voice spoke out. "Lord Ratharos, Lord Karakk'en, please calm down. We are in the great hall of the war council. Respect the others who are present!" Lady M'rhea said, her rattlesnake-like tail shaking vigorously. Lord Izerius, a large beetle-like being, spoke in a monotoned voice. "Silence." Lord Izerius then brought down his halberd, making a loud thud in the process. "I have to ask as well, where is our Master at such a troubling time?" Lady Arachmin, Queen of the Dridereons, spoke whilst looking at her glass of wine. A loud crack of her knuckles alerted everyone of her presence. "If our Master has vanished, then I shall bring him back. It's been a while since I've cracked some skulls." A snicker came from an Alhi-Vhampiri Lord, gaining the attention of a confrontational Stripedmark General. "And what are you going to do about it? Claw at their doors?" This garnered an angry roar from Lady Tigrea, who was then hissed at by the Alhi-Vhampiri Lord. "I'd like to see this bat try and fly over their heads and bite their necks... A really great way to siege a kingdom."  Lady Tigrea snickered at the thought, much to the chagrin of the Alhi-Vhampiri lord. "Save it for a dog that cares." He rebuked, making the Deroswolf Lord shift his hands into large claws. "You feeling lucky, punk?" They both growled at each other, bearing their teeth at each other. 

A deep yet loud booming voice then echoed. "Enough! All of you! Lord Sithenar, please refrain from provoking Lady Tigrea. As for you, Lord Talios, not everything is a challenge. We are here for urgent business!" An older being with goat-like horns spoke out. A large tail then slammed into the ground, making sure everyone paid attention. He then grunted, smoke coming out of his nostrils. The Greater Novasaurian lord then proceeded to sit back down, giving a signal to another lord. "Thank you for that, Lord Aratorias." The Greater Draen lord then clapped his hands twice. "Now, may I have all your attention, please?" He then coughed as he fixed his tie. Every lord then looked at him, with the exception of the being looking at the moons and the Greater Novasaurian lord. "Now then, about the disappearance of our Master. As you all know, he has recently told every last one of us to vacate the kingdom of Irunia." This then made a few of them grunt and mutter, especially with the small number of soldiers behind their respective banners. "Now this was all for a reason. I believe our Master has thought things through." He then looked behind and signaled two Draens to get close to the table. As the two Draens walk, the Greater Draen continued on. "According to our intelligence, the Defiance were this close to remaking a lost artifact." The two Draens then placed the parchments onto the table. The look of disgust can be seen in their eyes.

"Those insignificant fools!" Talios roared in anger. "Lord Rictos, are you sure these are accurate?" Lady M'rhea asked with worry. "I will be honest with you, my fellow Lords and Ladies, I do not know whether it is or isn't accurate." Rictos, the Greater Draen lord said in a fearful tone, for what they saw before them were the plans the old Primes made. A weapon that decimated the Elgs a few millennia ago. A weapon so powerful, it was sealed by the Primes themselves in a crypt long forgotten to eliminate any thought of any kingdom ever obtaining it. A weapon they called the "Wrathful Shard". 

"This was not the only thing that our intelligence gathered." He then called for one of his men to retrieve something. The Draen bowed and left. "Had it been true, and that weapon been unleashed on all of us within Irunia, we all would have perished." He then fixed his tie once more. "Furthermore, regarding the disappearance of our Master, it is said that the 'Champions' that were chosen to defeat our Master once and for all were supposed to be equipped with Black-Tipped weapons. Enough to kill our Lord, or so it seems. It may just hinder our Master for eons, but that is besides the point." He then noticed almost every lord was on edge. Black-Tipped weapons are heavier and deadlier. Even a monster immune to being stabbed can be killed by such a weapon. Arrows and swords are the most common weapons to ever be crafted with a Black-Tipped base. "We were lucky we managed to convince them otherwise..." The Draen then returned, accompanied by a Commonfolk man. It was a mage. The others loathed the cowering mage.

"Allow me to present the snake within the High Court of Magic. Lucas, before you are the Lords of Thalion. The one you sealed away." With this information, the rest of the Lords prepared to attack. Rictos, however, raised his hand. "Now, I know how you must feel, but this was the only logical way to protect our Master." The Lords lowered their weapons, ready to harm the Commonfolk mage should there be a need. Rictos then looked at Lucas. He dusted him off as he looked at the other Lords. "He was responsible for calling upon a different magic source, allowing our Master to be sealed and summoned in another world." 

This angered Lord Karakk'en. "You are responsible for sealing our Master?" He lunged forward to the Greater Draen, stopping a few meters in front of him with a powerful slam of his tentacles. He then grabbed the Greater Draen and wrapped him in his barbed tentacles. "You helped the enemy SEAL our MASTER? Did I hear that right?" He then turned towards the Commonfolk as he dropped the struggling Greater Draen. "And you, who dares to enter this land-" He was then stopped by Izerius, a halberd in between their faces. "Stand. Down. That is an order." Karakk'en then backed away from the now cowering mage. "If you had allowed... me... to finish..." Rictos said, standing up after the initial attack. The mage then spoke out of fear. "I-I did it under the orders of Lord Rictos! I swear they were going to try and kill your Master... Please, just let me go! I did what you asked of me!" Tigrea then snarled at the mage. "Where did you send him?" 

"In... in another world! I made sure that he could be summoned there... Please! Have mercy..." Talios, ever confident, spoke out of line. "Then, perhaps we should find a new Master. It seems our old one is gone." He then snickered. "Since Izerius has the most soldiers, perhaps he should be the new leader!" Izerius looked at him, but before he could speak, Ratharos roared. "As the ONLY Great Dragonkin Lord present, would I not be the most logical choice?!" He slammed his tail as he said that. Aratorias, however, saw this and decided to stand up. "We have pledged our allegiance to our Master. Do not forsake our leader." He grunted, this time a bit more smoke coming out. Almost everyone seemed to love being the ruler if it meant subjugating the others. Then, Karakk'en did the unthinkable. He spat at the throne of their Master, saying that having him as a Master would be a disgrace as he had been sealed away. Ratharos, despite being in a heated argument with Karakk'en prior to the meeting, laughed as he did so. It was noisy as it almost became a brawl.

Then, everyone felt immense fear. One they felt when they angered their Master. 

Everyone became silent. Everyone who partook in the claiming of the role realized their mistake, for now they find themselves in the glare of the being near the windows. He slowly turned around and walked towards the mage. Rictos, who was standing in his way, bowed and backed away. "Please, sir, have mercy on me!" The being then grabbed him by the shoulder. Then the being spoke in a deep and raspy voice. "Where did you send him?" It was a rare and eerie occurrence for the Lords. "In..." the mage gulped. "In a place filled with magic... I made sure that there was a being powerful enough to notice and summon him... Please sir, I weakened the ritual for you. For you all!" The being then grabbed the mage and gently made him stand. "Do you have your papers with you?" The mage nodded and hurriedly gave him the notes. The being seemed... pleased. 

The being then looked upon the cowering yet relieved mage. And at that moment, the being decided what to do. With a grab on the mage's head, his very life is drained before him. The mage screamed and struggled, with the rest of the Lords watching in terror as the mage slowly turned into bones. The paste of what was once muscle now fills the floor. Entrails spew downward, blood dripping and drying at a rapid rate. His eyes were bulging as his skull was being crushed. The mage that helped with the sealing of their Master is no more. Blood dripped from the right hand of the being. 

He then spoke as he flicked the blood away. "Phalanx." He commanded the Lord of the Shapeshifters, "See to it that you copy the mage and infiltrate their rankings. Gather information and send it all to Sithenar." With a bow, Phalanx made haste to leave and prepare for his mission.

The being then turned and walked towards the throne. He then spoke.

"In the absence of our Master, I am in command." He then glared at those who caused a scene, making them sit back down without orders as he walked back to the windows. All except the Greater Dragonkin. Foolish, was he as he dared to stand his ground. The being calmly turned around and looked at him. Ratharos then charged at him, swiping his claws at him, but none of them landed. The being calmly blocked all incoming attacks. He then proceeded to grab Ratharos by the throat, and with a swift motion, pinned him to the ground. As Ratharos lay down on the ground, the being placed his foot on the back of his head. He then whispered loud enough for everyone to hear. "If you ever interfere again... I will kill you." 

He then let go and proceeded to go back to the windows. Then he spoke once more. "Izerius, gather your troops for a hunting party at Strumroad. There is a Galvaraan Common Drake who nests there." Izerius bows and leaves to gather his messengers, knowing full well that Strumroad is near the borders of the Southern Outpost. "M'rhea, if I recall correctly, your merchants bought 500 crates of metal. See to it that your merchants reach the borders of Morokon. Request escorts from anyone here if necessary. As per your request of aid towards the encroaching enemy, it appears that they are travelling to Fort Lalfirn. One of the capitals of the Dwarves in terms of mining. See to it that you gather enough information before charging with someone else's army alongside yours. Capture it at all costs to secure more mining resources." With the issues solved, Tigrea and M'rhea bowed. "As for you, Tyr, an additional army shall be dispatched, led by our Elder Lich. Soon, he shall be promoted in order to partake in the war council." Tyr bowed to the being and thanked him. 

As for the rest, it seemed as if only a few had problems they wanted to speak about. As punishment for their insolence, their requests were denied.

Rictos then spoke. "Lord Second, no, Master Carrion, what are your orders?" The being now known as Carrion then turned around. He walked towards a bowing Rictos and answered him. "The rest of you, gather your armies and secure the Dwarvish city of Moldruin. They thought of victory when the war had not yet ended. Make that their last mistake." Everyone bowed and accepted the order. Rictos then asked once more. "Master, what do you plan to do?"

Carrion then looked at the waxing moons. "I will find our Master and bring him back." 





"SPIKE! Wake up!" Twilight said in a hurry. Today was the day she could meet an ancient being. "Uhh... Twilight, can I sleep for 5 more minutes?" The young dragon yawned. "No time for that, Spike! We might be late!" Twilight said as she dashed back and forth preparing and double-checking her stuff. It was at this point that Spike just decided to get up and help. No use trying to sleep in all that racket. Spike then looked at the clock. "Twilight... It's 6 in the morning!" Twilight then looked at Spike. "Oh... Well, we still have lots of work to do! Come on, Spike! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity!"

Spike then rolled his eyes. "Fine..." Twilight then hugged the young dragon. "Thank you, Spike!" As Spike went downstairs, he noticed a pink blur moving to the kitchen. "MORNING SPIKE!" This made Spike jump. Pinkie Pie is now in front of the young dragon. She giggled and bounced around. "So there I was sleeping when all of a sudden I remembered that today is the day that I meet a really old creature, who was probably sucked from another world and, thanks to Discord, got placed here, and now he saved Apple Bloom from being trapped in his tomb, and oh my gosh I can't wait!" She said it without a hint of pause. And then she gasped. "I FORGOT THE CAKE!" Pinkie Pie then zoomed out of the Golden Oak Library. Spike shook his head. "Well, at least someone else is excited." He donned his apron and began to cook breakfast for the two. He then pondered, "If he is a dragon, can he eat gems too?" 

Meanwhile, at Sweet Apple Acres, the Apple family is having breakfast. Apple Bloom, however, decided to pay her new friend a visit before having breakfast. Thalion would probably be sad if they didn't eat together, or at least, that was what she was thinking. As such, she went and checked on Thalion, who was busy looking at the rising sun. "Thaly!" She called out enthusiastically. She then galloped towards him, stopping mere moments before crashing into him. "Good mornin' Thaly! What are ya doin'?" She asked as Thalion continued to stare at the sun. "My uncle used to tell me that the sun contained the answers we sought." He then glanced at Apple Bloom. "Why seek my company at such an early morning?" To which Apple Bloom responded. "Ah reckon' that ya'd want to eat breakfast with company. Come on! Follow me!" She said, as she galloped away as fast as she could. Shaking his head, Thalion then got up and walked to the barn. It was a short walk for him, but a grand marathon for Apple Bloom. Seeing the little filly tired, he picked her up using his jaws and placed her on his back.

"Applejack wanted to meet ya', and since we are havin' breakfast, it would be the best time to get to know ya'!" She said as she climbed the neck of Thalion, allowing herself to lie down and rest on his head. Thalion then hummed. "Ah, I get to meet an Element first thing in the morning. What a great way to start the day." Thalion thought silently, and then answered Apple Bloom to discard suspicion. "It would also be nice to know her as well." Once they reached their destination, Thalion crouched down, allowing the filly to get down from him safely. "Applejack! I brought Thalion with me!" Suddenly, a loud crash can be heard. "Whoa, nelly!" 

Applejack did not know what to expect. Apple Bloom told her a bit about this Thalion fellow, but knowing her sister, she might have just exaggerated things. She donned her Stetson and went in to greet the new visitor. "H-hello there... uhh... partner!" She then opened the door and saw a dragon as tall as Princess Celestia. Apple Bloom wasn't kidding... Thalion then bowed. "Greetings, dear Applejack." He paused for a moment. "Your sister has told me all about your deeds. Truly, you are most remarkable, and seeing you face to-face, she has clearly failed to glorify your presence." Applejack blushed as he said that. He then bowed once again. "I am in your care as a humble guest." For a being who got sealed away, this dragon has got some manners. As such, Applejack bowed and opened the door, allowing the tall guest to enter.

This is a start of a good day.
> Chapter 5
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






Of Meetings and Interviews, Part Two



It was a peaceful morning for Fluttershy. She had to wake up earlier than usual, though, as this was the day that she would meet Thalion. She made haste and prepared the food for all the animals. "Oh... I just hope he isn't too scary..." Fluttershy said as she remembered how Apple Bloom described him. She shuddered at the thought of meeting a huge dragon. "Oh my... I just hope I don't offend him." She paced back and forth as she finished placing the bowls. "What if he gets angry at me? What if I ruin the meeting? What if... what if..." She sighed as she glanced down at an irritated white bunny. "Oh Angel, what do you think?" The bunny then lifted his paw and dropped it as he rolled his eyes. "You're right... I shouldn't think like that. He did save Apple Bloom. Maybe he's a nice dragon..." She gasped as soon as she grabbed the ingredients for what appeared to be a salad. "Maybe he likes animals! Oh, I can't wait to ask if he has a pet!" She beamed as she gave Angel a salad. She then glanced at the time. "Oh my, it's almost 7:30! I'd better get going!" She checked her mirror as she brushed her mane. She then went downstairs and nuzzled the animals inside. Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. 

"Fluttershy! Are you up?" A familiar voice can be heard.

Fluttershy went to the door and opened it, greeting her friend in the process. "Good morning, Rainbow." She then saw a white unicorn walking alongside two fillies. "Good morning, Fluttershy!" cried Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo. "Good morning, girls!" Rarity said as she walked next to Rainbow. "Oh... wow... you're all up early." She smiled, hiding behind her mane as she greeted everypony. "Why of course, dear! One should never miss a once in a lifetime opportunity!" Rainbow Dash then snickered. "Yeah, that. And not the gems and silk you might get." Rarity was not amused. The snickering pony then flew upwards and did a loop as she landed in front of all of them. "I'm going to meet a hero! AN ANCIENT HERO! I can't wait to talk about fighting bad guys and the cool stuff he has!" She then lifted her hoof. "This is going to be so awesome!" Scootaloo cheered alongside Rainbow Dash as she fluttered in the air.

"Ahem," Rarity exclaimed, making sure that she had gathered everyone's attention. "Perhaps we should go? I do not want to miss out on the schedule Mr. Thalion gave us." Fluttershy went outside as she said her goodbyes to her pet animals. She then joined the group who were now headed towards Applejack's farm. With some idle chitchat here and there to keep themselves entertained, Rarity then talked about the dragon that they were about to encounter. "I must say, I am a bit... worried." This prompted the whole group to look at her. "Oh... you too?" Fluttershy spoke out. "Well, we are meeting someone who has been sealed away for Celestia knows how long. Perhaps he would have a hard time understanding us." Everypony then looked at each other. Sweetie Belle then spoke. "Maybe we should ease him in?" Rarity nuzzled her little sister. "Oh, you are most certainly right!" She then looked at Rainbow Dash. "Which means no sudden shouting and or questions about fighting, okay?" Rainbow rolled her eyes at the comment. "Better say that to Pinkie, too! You know how she is with newcomers." 

Back at the barn, a sitting Thalion can be seen mingling with the Apple family. Toast with butter and eggs at the side, warm milk, and apple pies can be seen at the table. It is what he would call a normal breakfast, to some extent, at least. "Make yerself at home, sugarcube!" Applejack said, passing Thalion a plate. "Your hospitality is truly appreciated." Thalion then looked at the mare preparing breakfast alongside her brother. Her love for her family is powerful enough to move mountains. "Most intriguing." Thalion said, not realizing that he had said it aloud. "What is?" Apple Bloom said, allowing Thalion to catch is mistake. "Your family's hospitality, Apple Bloom. Not many would dare invite a being such as myself into their homes." Apple Bloom then nodded. "Understandable, Thaly." She said, mimicking Thalion's actions. Applejack finally sat down alongside her brother. She then looked at Thalion and gulped. "He has... quite sharp teeth." She thought to herself. She shook her head and told herself not to judge him based on appearance alone. "He saved Apple Bloom, for darn's sake!" Thalion noticed this and asked Applejack. "Are you alright, Applejack?" She nodded and spoke. "Ya bet yer flank Ah am!" This prompted Thalion to nod as he proceeded to eat the toasted bread. 

She has to say it now, otherwise, it would only hinder her later. She spoke once again, "Thalion, thank ya kindly for savin' my lil' sister... Ah don't know what to do if she were..." She stopped, tears forming in her eyes. "Ah'm sorry, Ah'm just-" She stopped as she felt something on her withers. Something light and warm. She then looked at Thalion. "You need not apologize. You were scared and devastated, fearing for your little sister." A claw reached in and wiped her tears, the sensation making her heart skip a beat. This was not a monster to be feared; this was a kindred soul. "Th-thank ya..." Apple Bloom then squealed with delight, prompting Applejack to stare at her sister. "In my culture, crying in front of food can lead to bad luck. Wipe away your tears, dear Applejack." She did so and proceeded to enjoy breakfast. 

"So, where are ya from?" Granny Smith asked. Thalion then shook his head as he answered. "My apologies, Granny Smith. All questions about me shall be answered soon, together with the rest." He then gave her an apologetic smile. "Bah! Fine then, keep yer secrets." This made everypony in the table laugh. Just then, as soon as Applejack was about to take a bite from her toast, a knock can be heard. "Ah'll get it!" Apple Bloom said. She dashed towards the door and opened it. She then saw a lavender unicorn with a young dragon on her back, as well as a pink pony bouncing up and down. "Good mornin', Twilight! Mornin' Spike! Mornin' Pinkie!" She gleefully said, earning the chuckles from Twilight. "Good morning, Apple Bloom."

Apple Bloom then lead them into the kitchen. Expecting to see everypony from the Apple family, they quickly followed Apple Bloom. They gasped at what they saw. They weren't expecting to see a dragon as black as the void, with purple highlights on his horns and tail, and deep red eyes peering into their soul. The intense gaze made the visitors tremble. The dragon then stood, and much to the surprise of the visitors, bowed. "Apologies for making you tremble. I am aware of what my gaze can do." As he looked towards the guests, a pink pony was suddenly on his snout. Not bothered by the sudden interaction, Thalion spoke to the pony. "Greetings, pink one." Pinkie Pie then gasped and spoke in a high-pitched tone. "Oh my gosh, you must be Thalion! It's so nice to meet you! What's your favorite cake? Do you even like cakes? What about cupcakes? DO YOU LIKE PARTIES? Ohh, I'm so excited!" She squeaked with pure joy. Twilight and Spike looked at each other, awaiting what would happen. Then, a faint exhale can be heard from Thalion. "Indeed, I am Thalion, dear pink one. Apologies though, for I will only answer what you ask of me if and only if you are all present." Twilight then looked at Thalion with a confused look. "And why is that?" Spike asked, not knowing that Twilight was going to ask the same question.

"I do not wish to repeat myself. I find it tiring at times, especially when I talk to some villagers back at my home." Thalion hid his annoyance well, as everypony present just nodded and accepted that as truth. As he finished his meal, Thalion stood up and went outside. "Thank you for the feast, dear Apple Family. It was indeed delightful." This prompted Applejack to look at the now leaving dragon. "Wait a sec' there, sugarcube. Where are ya goin'?" Thalion then looked at Applejack and the rest of the ponies. He then spoke. "I shall return to the place where Apple Bloom found me gazing at the sun. I find that place very much to my liking, if that is alright with you all. Perhaps our little interview should take place there." He then bowed at the ponies. 

Apple Bloom waved as she shouted. "See ya at 7:30!" 





Deep within the empty undercroft of Wroughtdrake Citadel, Carrion was preparing for his quest to bring back Thalion. He had prepared vials of his own poison in case his master asked for it, as well as mana potions for long stakeouts and certain magical scrolls that could help him if the need arose. He had prepared the notes from the now-dead Lucas, the unfortunate soul who helped with the sealing. With him, Thalion got sealed away, yet that did not bother him. What bothered him most was that this young mage brought him to another world, something that Rictos did not anticipate. While he agreed to the initial plan, he did not want his master to suffer further in another world. He then prepared his own personal items; a necklace made of silver, engraved with the words of promise, and a tiny parchment with three figures on it.

As he finished, he closed his eyes and chanted magic words to open the portal. A few seconds later, a black void whirls in front of him. Suddenly, a low but respectful voice called out to him. "Lord Carrion," an elderly being said in a hushed tone, "are you sure you do not need assistance?". Carrion then looked at the elderly novasaurian and nodded his head. "Await for further instructions, Aratorias. In my absence, you are in command. Do not make hasty decisions." Aratorias nodded as another being spoke. "Master Carrion, all preparations are complete. We will now depart towards Moldruin." Rictos said as he bowed in the presence of their master. "Excellent. See to it that there are no prisoners. Remind them of their enemy."

"Ah, Master Carrion, it is good to see that you are still here." Talios said, trying to hide his fear with a mocking tone. "Not to be rude, Master, but why must you save Thalion? If he dies there, then you are now in command of all of us. So why risk it?" Carrion then looked at Talios as he spoke in a condescending tone. "It is not him being alive that I fear. It is when he dies that I fear." Aratorias and Rictos shuddered, as they were the only ones out of the twelve to ever know about it. It's why Rictos even proposed the idea of sealing their master in the first place. When Talios looked at the cowering beings, he dared ask Carrion. "What in the world would happen if he died?!" Talios said, no longer able to hide his fear. Carrion, as he is stepping into the portal, looked one last time at the deroswolf. "Watch yourself, a curse plagues this land." 

With that cryptic message, Carrion stepped forward and vanished before their eyes.





It was 7:30 in the morning, with everypony following Apple Bloom towards the clearing where Thalion sat. Two of the ponies were jealous that their friends got to meet Thalion without them. Rarity huffed while Rainbow rolled her eyes, causing every Element bearer to snicker at them. They then stopped where Thalion rested, gazing at the sun once again. The newer guests were, of course, shocked to see him, something that he had gotten used to for so many years. He bowed to them, allowing them all to gaze at him with awe. "Oh... my..." Fluttershy said, almost falling down on her flank. The two other Cutie Mark Crusaders were in awe. They could not turn away as they saw this dragon in front of them. Rainbow almost fell from her flight when she spotted his black scales and red eyes. In front of them was a dragon that did not bear any resemblance to any of the dragons in Equestria. Spike gulped as he looked at the dragon. If this was his shrunken size, how big was his true size?

"Greetings, ponies of this world." The mere voice shook everyone who haven't met him during breakfast. "Be not afraid, I am but your humble guest." Everypony then sat down in front of him. As they did so, Thalion looked around before kneeling as to not intimidate them. "Forgive me, for I do not know your names apart from the Apple family." This prompted Pinkie Pie to raise her hoof. "Oh, me, me! Hi! My name is Pinkamena Diane Pie, or Pinkie Pie! I love parties! Do you love parties? I hope you do! Oooohh I also have three siblings who I love very much, annnnd-" she was stopped by Applejack, who apologized to Thalion. Much to the surprise of everypony though, Thalion did not seem fazed as he greeted Pinkie Pie. With this act of simple kindness, Fluttershy mustered all her courage and spoke. Perhaps Thalion isn't so bad as she first thought. "Hello, m-my name is... Fluttershy..." She paused for a bit before continuing. "It's nice to meet you... Thalion... Oh my, I'm sorry if I interrupted..." She hid behind her mane as she spoke. Expecting the worst, she knelt and covered her eyes. However, a soft tone can only be heard from the "offended" creature. 

"Greetings, Fluttershy. You need not be afraid of me, nor would you need to apologize. You have not offended me with your words." With that said, Fluttershy allowed herself a moment to breathe. Rainbow Dash then spoke as she flew towards Thalion's snout and posed. "The name's Rainbow Dash, fastest flyer in ALL of Equestria and future Wonderbolt!" Expecting Thalion to be impressed, Rainbow smirked at the thought of a hero being in awe of her awesome feats. Noticing this, Thalion bowed at the pegasus. "It is a pleasure to meet one such as yourself, Rainbow Dash. You are truly as amazing as you say." Suddenly, a white unicorn stepped forward, bowing towards Thalion. "Greetings, Sir Thalion. My name is Rarity, proud owner of the Carousel Boutique. Oh, it is a pleasure to meet somepony, err, somecreature such as yourself who articulates with fine words and acts with manners." She then glances at Rainbow Dash, "Unlike somepony who brags almost immediately." As Rainbow scoffs at Rarity, Thalion bows at the majestic unicorn. "Indeed, it is a pleasure, Miss Rarity. It is an honor to meet royalty, one who is as sophisticated as yourself." And with that comment, Rarity blushed upon hearing such words. Nopony has ever thought of her as royalty, let alone a dragon.

Twilight stepped forward, allowing Spike to get down before she spoke. "H-hello, Thalion" she coughed as she continued, "I am Swilight Tparkle, I mean, Twilight Sparkle." Embarrassed by this, Spike decided to help out. However, before he spoke, he belched. A scroll appears from the young drake's flames. Twilight, by instinct, grabbed hold of the scroll with her magic. This amused Thalion as he watched the two, Twilight reading what was written in the scroll while Spike was trying to hide himself after the failed attempt to make a greeting. He looked at the now embarrassed young drake as he bowed towards them. "Greetings, Spike. Apple Bloom spoke much about you. In fact, you are the reason as to why I am in this form."

"Oh wow, really? I hope she didn't tell you much." Spike then looked at Twilight, who was busy removing the seal from the scroll. "It's nice to meet you, Tha-" the young drake did not get to finish.

"It's from Princess Celestia!" She exclaimed. Celestia. Thalion recalled what Apple Bloom told him. She told him that this Celestia being was their Princess, their ruler alongside another known as Luna. He recalled her saying that they are the ones who control the sun and the moon. Quite powerful... Powerful indeed. She was reading it silently, piquing the interests of everypony. "Well? What's it about?" Rainbow Dash asked, curious as to why Twilight wasn't reading it aloud as she used to. Twilight, noticing the gazes, decided to read the message aloud.

Twilight then coughed as she read the letter.


"My faithful student Twilight,

While I had received your message early on, I was unfortunately attending a meeting at that time. With that, I apologize for not writing back as soon as possible. I find it odd that a structure has been found underneath the Everfree Forest. When you sent me some runes carved within this structure, I tried to find out more about it. I scoured the library, even within the restricted sections, and found nothing that matched this language. Not even Star Swirl's books, my mentor, studious as he is, had any recordings whatsoever of such writings. It seemed ancient, to say the least. If possible, I would like to ask you to bring some items from this place, as I will ask my top archeologists to identify what time period this came from.

Regarding dear Apple Bloom's disappearance, I do hope that no harm befalls the young filly. That she has been found safe, with no injuries whatsoever. Dear Applejack must be worried, and as a sister, I feel her sorrow. May you find Apple Bloom safe and sound. By the time you read this, I hope Apple Bloom has returned, safe and within Applejack's arms."


Twilight then hovered over other text within the message. She decided not to read this part aloud for her friends to hear.


Twilight, this worries me so. I felt something before the defeat of Discord a few days back. I'm afraid that I do not know what we are up against, should something come and attack us. Please, be safe. Those runes bear a bit of darkness within them, for when I tried to decipher them with my own magic, I felt a surge of darkness, of dread, of sorrow. Twilight, whatever it is within those ruins, I fear it might bring darkness.


This made the gears in Twilight's head move. She then proceeded to read out the last words so as to not garner suspicion.


"Once again, I apologize for not sending this letter sooner, and that I hope Apple Bloom is back home with her family. Sincerely, your mentor, Princess Celestia."


As Twilight rolled the parchment, she called out to Spike to prepare her quill and parchment. She then saw Applejack ruffling her little sister's mane. Twilight then walked forwards, now more confident than before. "Mr. Thalion, would it be alright to ask you some questions?" 

Thalion nodded, noting to Twilight that this is why they were here in the first place. 

The group of ponies and a young drake then huddled together, making a plan in order to be more organized. They all agreed that each pony would have three questions each. Whatever it was, whether the topic was about parties or about their world, they would not interrupt each other. And if somepony has already asked about the same thing, then they should not repeat the question. Applejack then coughed, looking at Thalion. "Ehh, 'scuse me Thalion, but if yer alright, we would like to begin." Thalion then nodded, allowing himself to be comfortable. He then asked everycreature present if he could turn back to his "normal" self, seeing that he did not need to be a dragon. They nodded and saw him transform into this bipedal being. He had teeth on his cheeks, claws and scales on his arms, and a massive tail trailing behind him. It was almost as if he transformed into Spike, although a bit more vicious looking.

Applejack started as she coughed, fixing her Stetson that rested atop her head. "Apple Bloom tried to speak yer full name, but she can't. What is yer full name?" Thalion then spoke in a calm demeanor. "Omnidiah Thalion." Not saying much more, Applejack nodded. "And, uh, how old are ya?"

"I am close to thirty thousand." This made everyone look at him with shock. "C-come again?" Thalion then said it again with a monotoned expression. "I am close to being thirty thousand years old." This made Rainbow Dash rub her eyes. "Talk about really, really, REALLY ancient." Applejack then pondered. "So, uh, Apple Bloom told us about a war... How long were ya fighin' in it?" Thalion then looked at the sky, allowing time to count the many dreadful years of war. "For twenty-five thousand years. I was sealed soon after, and for five thousand years, I was not in the middle of a warzone." They all looked at him in a new light. He looked tired.

Pinkie Pie, deciding that she would want to cheer evercreature up, decided to go next. "Do you like parties?" Thalion then shook his head as he chuckled, knowing that this pony would ask him about that. "Indeed, only on specific occasions, though." Pinkie Pie then clapped her hooves. She then thought of a great question. "What type of party? Like a Birthday Party or a Wedding Party?" Amused, Thalion then answered. "If I must choose, I'd say that a Landentrogg would fit me best." Pinkie, wanting to know about this "Landentrogg" party, decided to ask her final question. "What's a Landentrogg?" Thalion, who picked up the pink pony and placed her near him, simply said with a somber tone. "It is a gathering for every family member to enjoy the winter. They would share stories, drinks, food, but most of all, they would be together on such cold days." Pinkie Pie then bounced. "How do you celebrate it?" Thalion then shook his head as he spoke. "Perhaps another time, Pinkie, for you have asked three questions already." Pinkie Pie pouted, but she didn't seem to be sad.

Rarity, inspired by Thalion's explanation of family, decided to ask. "Sir Thalion, do you have a family?" A question she quickly regrets as Thalion looks at her with contempt on his face. He went silent. He closed his eyes, inhaled deeply, and exhaled. "Proceed to your other question, Rarity." The lack of compassion from somecreature who used to speak with class sent shivers down her spine. That warm tone, gone in an instant. "Ah, yes, um..." She paused, looking back at Thalion. "About that silk and those gems... they were simply divine!" Trying to bring back the mood, she showed Thalion what she was talking about. 

"Ah, Mythren gems. Indeed, very rare. These can only be found at the mountains of Korlecchiah." He then looked at the silk. "And these are silk made by the finest crafters of Irunia. Apologies, Rarity, but this silk could not be made by your weavers, as the process can only be done in my homeland." Managing to suppress that anger, Thalion went back to the tone the ponies knew. Noticing this, Rarity discarded that sense of guilt and asked one more question. Hopefully, she does not agitate him even more. "Ahem, about your clothing... It seems old and tattered. Do you want me to prepare you something new?" Thalion then looked down, noticing the tattered cloth of his once royal clothing. "If you insist, though, if possible, I would want it to look exactly as this one." Rarity, despite wanting to do more, simply acknowledged Thalion's request.

Rainbow Dash was next. "Do you like to fly?" Thalion answered simply. "Yes." She then placed a hoof on her chin, thinking about what to ask next. "Did you, uhh, fight bad guys?" Thalion then laughed. "Of course, I've battled a lot, and no one has yet to win. The mere mention of my name strikes fear to those who are villainous." This prompted Rainbow Dash to hoof bump in the air. "What is your greatest feat?" She asked, wanting to hear more about Thalion. "I handled an army by myself, waiting for assistance. They came three days later and saw me as the victor." Of course, a part of this was a lie. He did handle an army on his own, that much is true, but he never asked for assistance nor did he ask for reinforcements. "That is... so... awesome!" Rainbow Dash said, doing a loop in the air. She then presented her hoof towards Thalion, telling him to bump it with his hands, and he did so.

Fluttershy was next, simply hugging a passing beaver on her chest as she gently floated towards Thalion. "Umm... hello again... Do you like animals?" Nervous about his answer, she gently caressed the beaver's head. "Indeed, I do." She beamed with joy. "What type of animals do you have?" Thalion pondered. "I have the same animals seen here. Beavers, ducks, and even tiny mice." Fluttershy then landed as she let the beaver go on his merry way. She then floated near Thalion as she spoke. "Oh, I do hope that you come by my cottage! I take care of a lot of little creatures, and they'd be happy to meet you too! We can talk more about different things and-" She then landed, acknowledging her sudden outburst. "Um, sorry about that... If you don't mind, of course, you are free to come to my cottage." Thalion simply nodded in response, allowing the shy pony to gather her breath. She then floated back to where her friends were, forgetting that she could still ask another question. 

As they were all asking questions and having their questions answered, Twilight wrote down the whole interaction. It was her turn. "Thalion, if I were to assume, you are from another world, right?" Thalion then nodded. "Indeed, I am from another world." She scribbled it down as she asked. "Why were you sealed and chained in a tomb?" Thalion, taken aback by the question, simply answered. "I was sealed by my enemies in their hope to stop me from vanquishing evil." Twilight took note of this. "If it is possible, would you mind allowing me more questions?" Thalion nodded. Being careful with her words, Twilight eventually spoke. "When did you last see daylight?" Thalion, knowing that this was an interrogation, spoke honestly. "A few days ago. It was a void when I was first sealed. Then, by some unknown force, I was buried underneath." 

"These enemies of yours, how would you describe them?" Twilight asked, not missing a single beat. "Barbaric, unruly. A resistance, if I must say honestly." Twilight simply wrote it down, not even looking at the parchment. "About the war, you said you participated in it for twenty-five thousand years. How did that war start?" Thalion then hesitated to speak. And then, as if he didn't want to answer, he spoke in a hushed tone. "I do not know..." Twilight then asked one last question. "About the other heroes, were they your friends?" Thalion, visibly annoyed now, tried to calm himself first before speaking. "They are..."

With that response, Twilight asked Spike to take a letter. "Will you excuse us for a moment?" Thalion nodded. After a few moments, the dragon breathed fire onto the parchment; the smoke travelling towards a certain mountain. They both then returned. "Thank you, Thalion, for your time." 

The rest of the interview went well, with the CMC's thanking him while also asking questions of their own, and seeing that Twilight asked more than three questions, they decided to ask a lot. Granny forgot what she wanted to ask, earning the chuckles of Applejack and Big Mac. And with a brief goodbye to Thalion, the ponies left. 





"Something feels off... why was he sealed in the first place" Twilight asked, making sure that they were out of earshot.

"Uhh, duh, he said the bad guys did it because they were too afraid!" Rainbow Dash said, confident in her actions.

"But why? If the villains really did fear him, why bother sealing him in the first place? Why add chains to an already sealed being?" Twilight said, growing ever more concerned about the whole situation. 

"Hold on now, sugarcube. Are ya suggestin' that Thalion may not be tellin' the whole truth?" Applejack asked. She knows that Thalion is a good fellow. If he wasn't, Apple Bloom wouldn't be here in the first place.

"He's withholding information from us, that's for certain... Have you seen his reaction when Rarity asked about his family?" Twilight said, looking at Rarity as she spoke. "Think about it. First, he was sealed, locked up in chains. Then, when asked about the other heroes, he seemed rather off. He sounds more like a prisoner, if you ask me." Twilight said.

"Hmm... Something painful must've happened. We shouldn't be quick to judge, Twilight, lest we do the same thing that we've done to Zecora..." Rarity insisted, knowing full well that judging someone hastily can lead to more misunderstandings.

"I just hope you are right, Rarity. I don't want to be paranoid..." A sigh came out from Twilight. She wanted to believe in Thalion, but his responses were just too... weird for her.

"Then... what do we do?" Fluttershy, now hiding behind her mane once again at the thought of an evil Thalion. 

"Silly! We take him to Princess Celestia, she'll know what to do!" Pinkie Pie exclaimed. 

"Plus, we're the Elements of Harmony! If Thalion does become evil, we can take him!" Putting her hooves together, Rainbow Dash said.



 

As the ponies left, Thalion glanced towards his shadow. "There is no use trying to hide from me." Thalion said in a calm voice as his shadow morphed into a being. "Nothing seems to get by you, master." The being said in a hushed tone. "Carrion, we are alone for the moment. You need not address me as such." 

"Of course, brother." Carrion answered, relieved that he could finally stop calling him as such. No one else knows, and he will see to it that no one ever does. "This world's equines... Why can I understand them? I do not speak in Algaentongue." Thalion then looked at Carrion, a glint of intrigue within his eyes. "I, myself, thought that they were mere pets or even animals. Equines of burden. However, there were no Commonfolk, Elven, or even Dwarven, that took care of these equines. It appears that they are a civilized race." Carrion cringed at the mere thought of these ponies joining "the cause". The cause is to hunt them down and end them. 

"Have you heard the entire conversation?" Carrion then nodded. 

"They will surely perish in our world." Carrion paused. "Do you want me to end them?" Carrion said, agitated. "No." Thalion said, with a rather calm tone. "Carrion, go to this 'Canterlot', and seek out information about the Princesses and the powers of this world. I will give you further instructions soon." 

"Do you wish to use them?" 

"Yes. They might be valuable assets soon." Carrion then nodded as Thalion spoke.

"Before you go, though, report to me about what has happened. I fear I might be... outdated." 

"How long were you sealed?" Thalion then looked at Carrion with a great deal of rage hidden beneath a stoic expression. "Five thousand years, Carrion." Carrion shook his head. "It has only been three days for us." Thalion nodded, not affected by the new revelation. "I see." Carrion then sighed, knowing that Thalion is already thinking of a question about how he got here. "I do not know, but for what it's worth, I came here by a portal rather than through a ritual." Thalion nodded, allowing this to be the current answer to his question. Carrion then handed him something, a necklace of some sort. "You forgot this." 

"Ah... this old thing." He was mesmerized by the silver necklace. He gently caressed it with his claws. "Tell me, Carrion, are you tired of this war?" Carrion simply sat next to him. "I... do not know. I hate them all, for what they've done to me and to you." Thalion then looked at the necklace. "Do you think she'll forgive us?" 

"I do not know... I hope she does." Just then, Thalion coughed up blood. "Oh... I've tainted this pure land..." Thalion said, as he wiped his mouth clean of blood. Carrion, knowing that this was a side effect of his own poison, slowly grabbed his own antidote. Thalion then drank it, immediately feeling relieved. "The curse is acting up again... Are you sure you are alright, Thalion?" Thalion nodded. "I've survived worse, Carrion. This would probably be my fifth death, if not for them sealing me away..."

"Perhaps this is an omen... Carrion, see to it that you do not harm anyone of these ponies unless I give you the order." Carrion then nodded as Thalion gazed at the sun once again. 

"Thirty thousand years... or close to it at least..." Carrion said silently. 

"Oh, Miri..."
> Chapter 6
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------






Among the Canterlot Sheep


Canterlot, a bustling city built on the side of a mountain where the nobility and upper class reside. The capital of Equestria, this place is the residence of one known as royalty. Princess Celestia, a pony of grace and humility, is the embodiment of all the three pony tribes. Known as an Alicorn, the three pony tribes' features are united within her. The Earth Ponies' mighty strength, the Pegasi's ever graceful flight, and the Unicorns' mysterious magic. And with her guidance, Equestria flourished into the land that it is now. For a thousand years, and a thousand more if she never leaves the throne, the world will be peaceful and just.

And with the defeat of a certain Draconequus a few days ago, the kingdom is back to peace.


"And that shall, therefore, be the standard!" 

"But your standards counteract the standards given by the council!" 


Well... almost having peace.

While many ponies aspire to the throne, few realize the price of such a position. The cost of the crown lies heavy on the heart while light on the head. And such a cost may be considered excessive for someone, nay, somepony like Princess Celestia. However, as the princess, she does not have room to complain. She bears it all, the grief, the sorrow, and even the annoyance. And when she banished her sister to the moon a thousand years ago, she had to deal with it and move on for the sake of her ponies. She had little time to cry; she had to be strong. So what's making her lose her patience? The minor problems some of the nobility present.

"The specified width of the table should be exactly 40 inches! 45 inches? Probably, but goodness, 43?!" The stallion with a suit and a mustache said, as he placed his hoof on his suit. "Why, I might consider you a mad pony!" 

"According to the council present at that time, 42.5 inches is the standard, and I repeat, STANDARD width of the table. The Council of Craftsponies has SPECIFIED these exact numbers for maximum comfort!" The tall stallion with a bowler hat said. "The lowest we can accommodate is 42.1 inches!"

She hid a thousand years of sorrow behind a smile. Now, she hides that slight bit of annoyance. The current day court was troublesome, to say the least. For a thousand years, she thought she had heard it all. Disputes about land, disputes about food, disputes about ownership of certain items. But now, now she's listening to two stallions fighting over the exact measurement of width for a table.

 A table. 

"While I do love my citizens, there are times where I wish they would just settle things on their own..." Celestia thought to herself. She shook her head, mentally waving off those thoughts. Suddenly, a scroll popped out in front of her. While the stallions did not notice such a thing due to their arguments about the width, Celestia took it upon herself to read the letter. 

The letter read:


Dear Princess Celestia,

My apologies for not sending a proper friendship report instead, but I think me and my friends have found an underground ruins while searching for Apple Bloom. While we were following Fluttershy to our picnic spot, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle ran towards us. They were worried and we decided to follow them. We learned that Apple Bloom fell into a sinkhole, and as such, decided to make haste. Applejack was, and still is, worried. I just hope we manage to find Apple Bloom while we venture on in this place.

This structure, though, makes no sense! None of the symbols here match any of the archeological records we have! I have tried my best to copy the symbols and write them here. 

ᛗᚨᚤ ᛏᚺᛖ ᚷᛟᛞᛋ ᚷᛁᚡᛖ ᚢᛋ ᛋᛏᚱᛖᚾᚷᛏᚺ ᚨᛋ ᚹᛖ ᛋᛖᚨᛚ ᛏᚺᛁᛋ ᚷᚱᛖᚨᛏ ᛖᚡᛁᛚ. ᛗᚨᚤ ᚺᛖ ᚾᛟ ᛚᛟᚾᚷᛖᚱ ᚹᚨᚾᛞᛖᚱ ᛏᚺᚱᛟᚢᚷᚺ ᛟᚢᚱ ᚹᛟᚱᛚᛞ, ᛚᛖᚨᚡᛁᚾᚷ ᛞᛖᚲᚨᚤ.

ᛗᚨᚤ ᚺᛁᛋ ᛏᚤᚱᚨᚾᚾᚤ ᛖᚾᛞ ᚠᛟᚱᛖᚡᛖᚱᛗᛟᚱᛖ.

Your faithful student, 
Twilight


Celestia then gazed upon the unknown symbols, and when she did, she felt a slight pain in her head. Whatever these symbols are, they can cause such danger. Celestia then called upon her guard to cancel the day court; a discovery had been made and a filly was in danger. However, before she could give the order, the doors toward the throne room opened with a loud bang. A dark-coated mare with a flowing mane filled with stars entered the room, her wings folded in, a bluish hue surrounding her horn and the door handles. "Tia!" The mare called out, startling the squabbling stallions and alerting the guards.

"Luna? What's wrong?" Celestia asked worriedly. The moment she glanced upon the runes, pain struck her. Did the same thing happen to her sister too? The alicorn mare now known as Luna panted. "Tia, there is a mushroom on our garden!" Celestia then stared with a blank expression. "What?" Luna then rushed towards her sister's side. "A mushroom, Tia! There is a mushroom in the Royal Gardens!" And with that statement, Celestia face-hoofed. She was worried that by mere glancing at the symbols, they would cause her sister to feel pain. And yet, she was worried about nothing. "Sister, it is natural for a mushroom to grow in the Royal Gardens. If this stresses you so much, perhaps we can ask the Royal Gardener to remove that mushroom." Luna then shook her head. "Nay, Tia! This mushroom is alive!" Celestia, at the verge of anger, calmly smiled at her sister. "Luna, all mushrooms are alive-" Luna then stomped her hoof.

"The mushroom has a cart full of merchandise, Tia!"

The cogs within Celestia's head then turned and whirled. A mushroom suddenly appearing, a cart full of merchandise, the Royal Garden... Celestia gasped at the thought as she excitedly walked towards the doors. "Could it be?" Luna, glancing upon her sister, asked worriedly. "Tia, where are you going?" Even the once bickering stallions were confused. "Princess? What about today's court?" 

"We shall move this discussion tomorrow. An important matter arose." Those present were left with confusion on their faces. As the two sisters walked together, Luna asked her sister. "Tia, why art thou excited?" Celestia, without even glancing at her sister spoke in a thrilled tone. "Because, he's back!" Confused, Luna asked once more. "Who's back?"

"Arumnis." Celestia spoke.





Within the Royal Gardens of Canterlot Castle, there was one who hummed a tune. He was happily looking at the sky, resting in a nearby tree alongside his merchandise. He had a piece of hay on his mouth as he sighed comfortably. "Ah, this is life, hmm hmm." Though he was still surprised by the sudden disruption to his peace as an alicorn smaller than Tia stared at him as he lay down to rest. And when he spoke, the alicorn fled. "Hmm hmm, are all young alicorns like that now? Hmm hmm." 

He continued to stare at the sky, casually imagining the fluffy clouds to be whatever he desired; a pony, a plant, a house, or even mushrooms. And then he tipped his hat to cover his face. "Looks like I need to get some sleep, hmm hmm." A few minutes later, however, the sound of hoofsteps awoke the napping mushroom. "Ah, yes, welcome welcome! Here to sell and repair, yours truly, the wandering merchant, hmm hmm." As he looked at the possible costumers in front of him, his eyes widened. "Ah, Tia! It's good to see you again, hmm hmm!" Celestia, at the sight of a familiar face, grabbed the merchant and welcomed him with a warm embrace. "Ah, it's so good to see you again, Arumnis!"

Arumnis then chuckled. "Well of course! I need to make bits, hmm hmm. What better place than to do it here, hmm?" Celestia chuckled at the comment. While her subjects treat her as royalty, she has always felt that they are so distant. However, this mushroom merchant seems to treat her like a normal mare. "Oh, how I missed you so. How long was it since we've last seen each other?" Arumnis, placing his hand on his chin as he pondered, spoke with a humorous tone. "Oh, almost 600 years, no big deal hmm hmm." He then smiled at the princess. "Though, we almost met 15 years ago, hmm hmm. My fireworks really need an update, hmm." He then placed his hand on Celestia's hoof. "Hmm, intriguing, perhaps you might want to repair your regalia? You already know the price, hmm hmm." Celestia, again, chuckled at his comments, much to the chagrin of her sister behind them. "Perhaps it is unwise for such a fool to address their princess in that way." Luna said, making sure to put an emphasis on the word "fool". This garnered the attention of Arumnis. "Ah, if it isn't the other alicorn, hmm hmm. Tia, is she the new ruler? I can see why she isn't popular, hmm hmm."

Luna gasped, "How dare thee insult us!" Celestia calmly placed a hoof on her sister. "Now now, Lulu, there is no need to get angry," Celestia said glancing at Arumnis, "that's just the way he is." Placing her wing to her sister's back, Celestia gently nudged her sister towards the merchant. "Arumnis, meet my sister, Luna." Arumnis, looking at the annoyed little sister, lowered his head. "Greetings, Princess of the Night, she who raises the moon for the ever beautiful night sky. I am Arumnis, travelling merchant and craftshroom, at your service, hmm hmm."

"H-how did you know about us?" Luna gasped. "Ah, well, your sister talked about you a lot, hmm hmm. Of how she misses you dearly and how she could've saved you, yes." Arumnis then looked at Celestia with thoughtful eyes, "For a thousand years, she has suffered with her guilt of banishing you into the moon. Know that your sister loves you dearly, hmm hmm." Luna, eyeing down the mushroom, simply smiled. "Of that, I know." 

Not wanting to see them in tears, Arumnis coughed. "Bah! Now that we are acquainted, what do you want to buy? I am very particular with costumers holding down the line!" At the mere mention of this, Luna took a closer look at the merchandise. She fancied a mirror, its frame handcrafted from silver. Allowing her sister to get acquainted with her friend's attitude, she knelt down and glanced at the other merchandise. "Ah, yes, that mirror is handcrafted by yours truly, hmm hmm!" Luna, wanting to know more about the mirror, asked the merchant some questions. "How much is thy mirror?" Arumnis, chuckling at the new customer he gained, simply said what any merchant would say. "Ah, for you, I give a discount! 69 bits!" Gasping at the price, Luna questioned even further. "Only 69 for such a well made masterpiece? Thou art crazy, master Arumnis!" Laughing at this, Arumnis simply waved his hand. "Ah, yes, yes. But, this makes others who are not of wealth and power enjoy such masterpieces, no?" 

With that statement, Celestia remembered why she even trusted such a creature. He was, and still is, a merchant, yes, but he acknowledges that some of her citizens weren't of noble blood. And when some ponies can not afford the item, instead of shooing them away, he sells it to them for only a few bits, even offering it to them for free. Does this make him a terrible merchant? Yes, most definitely. And yet, he doesn't mind. He doesn't even drop the quality of his works.

"I am indeed a merchant, Tia. But, how can I be happy with giving away my crafts if only a few ponies can enjoy them?" She remembered fondly.

Just then, a sudden pain surged through Celestia. The same pain she felt when she glanced at those symbols. "Tia, what is bothering you, hmm hmm?" Celestia then looked at a concerned Arumnis, holding what appeared to be a small figure of an alicorn. "I'm fine, Ru, it's nothing." She smiled weakly at an unamused Arumnis. While placing down the figure for Luna to gawk at, Arumnis went by her side. 

"I've known you for a long time, we've talked for a long time, you can't fool me, hmm hmm. So, tell me, what's the matter, Tia?" Celestia grimaced at the thought of her friend experiencing the pain, however, she knows she can't lie. "It's a matter concerning my dear student, Twilight." Arumnis then nodded. "Ah yes, the young lavender pony, hmm hmm. She loved my fireworks, yes, yes. So, what about her?" Celestia sighed. "Twilight and her friends found a structure of unknown origin while searching for Apple Bloom. The poor filly fell into a sinkhole..." Arumnis nodded, waiting for her to continue. "And within that structure, strange symbols appeared. She wrote it down in her letter." Curious, Arumnis asked for the letter, to which Celestia gave it to him hesitantly. "Hmm hmm, interesting." He then looked at a worried Celestia. "An ancient language I read years ago." 

"Can... can you read it?" Arumnis shook his head. "It will take me a while, yes. This will cost you a lot, Tia. You do know that this will hinder my business, hmm hmm." Celestia nodded as she placed her hoof on his shoulder. "Oh, Arumnis, I'm so sorry! We finally meet after years, and I'm asking for help once again... I really am a failure, huh?" 

"Shush, do not berate yourself like that, Tia. Not in the presence of your sister." He glanced at Luna, who was currently busy admiring his merchandise. "Hmm, you know that you are great, yes? Remember what we talked about, hmm hmm? That you are not a failure just because you can't make a decision, hmm hmm. Rely on others too, yes? You did that even without me by your side for 600 years!" He then placed his hand on her hoof placed upon his shoulder. "You are a great princess, strong as the iron forges. Always remember that, hmm?" 

She bore it all, the grief, the sorrow. And when she banished her sister to the moon a thousand years ago, she had to deal with it and move on for the sake of her ponies. She had little time to cry; she had to be strong. And she became strong not just by herself, but with the help of others, especially Arumnis, who was with her 600 years ago, in the secret gardens. And right now, with her sister finally back, she has to stay strong. A tear formed in her eye, "Thank you, Arumnis." Celestia muttered.

"Bah! No crying! You'll ruin the merchandise! Now then, hmm, I suggest, yes, I suggest that you read on this too. Perhaps your mentor has notes on his books, hmm." Celestia nodded. She knew that if there was someone well-versed with artifacts, it would be Star Swirl. There is a chance that her mentor has analyzed such symbols before, writing it within his research. "That's it! Star Swirl must have written about those symbols!" She stood up and grabbed Arumnis in a hug, much to the chagrin of the sporekin. She then called out to her sister, who had grabbed a few items with her magic. "All that costs no more than 175 bits, hmm hmm." She paid him in full and added a few more as she waved to her new acquaintance. Although a bit taken back by his attitude, she could feel that he could be trusted.

As the two alicons left, Arumnis went back to his spot underneath a tree. "Surprising that they found ancient N'hirvhannian, hmm hmm!" He smirked. He understood the runes, yet he did not give out that information. He shook his head as he tipped his hat. "I wonder if Ponyville is a good place to sell, hmm? Perhaps I can meet an old friend there, yes." He said as he drifted into dreamland.





She scoured the library for information regarding the symbols. She thought she was close, and yet, none of Rockhoof's runes match the symbols, nor does any language whatsoever. In almost a whole day, she read more than 400 books with the hope of ever understanding the symbols. She started calling it "runes" as it looked like such. And with her sister's help, she read over 100 more. And with each book she read, she felt some sort of darkness emanating from the runes. Her trance was only broken when her sister called for her to lower the sun. Had it not been for Luna, she would've been stuck in the library for a whole day and a whole night. 

"Tia, thou been saddled with that letter in hoof. Art thou sure thou art alright?" Celestia, tired as she is, nodded. "I'm fine, Luna," she said with a weak smile, "Really, I am." Luna saw this and pleaded for her sister to rest, making sure she does so in the process. And Celestia did so. She was tired, and yet, she has more to worry about tomorrow.

As she drifted into slumber, she couldn't help but think of the runes that she read. What was it all about? Why was there a structure? Would Apple Bloom be alright? Within her dreams a shadow lurks, with scorching red eyes that glared at her. The nightmare had just begun, for in her dreams a figure taunts her. She tried to reach it, yet no words came from her mouth. She tried to run, yet this figure stayed so far. "I see you," it muttered. "I sense your very  fears," it snarled. "Tell me, Celestia... How do you wish for your sister to die?" Celestia can only quake as she stared at death. "STOP!" 

And all went silent as her surroundings turned as black as the void. She awoke earlier than she was used to, sweat dripping from her brow. She cursed under her breath. She then gazed at the letter Twilight gave her, and decided to finally write her response. And with a brief flash of magic, she sent her letter with an enchantment so as to not bother a sleeping Twilight. The morning was cold, and the moon was still in view. 

A few hours passed after she raised the sun for everypony. She wanted to talk to her dear friend at the Royal Gardens, only to find that he was no longer there. "Well, he does have his ways of getting in and out..." Celestia chuckled softly as she glanced at the footprints of an animal, one that Arumnis kept as his storage and mount. With this information, she went back to the throne room to start the day. Before she entered, though, she ordered her guards to summon forth archeologists should she get a sample of the ruins. With a brief chat to her maids and butlers, she pressed on to day court. Just then, she noticed another presence. She looked around, only to see her sister behind her. "Tia?" Luna called out. Relieved, she gently nuzzled her sister and told her to rest.

Luna agreed and wished her luck in today's court. As Celestia finally went to the throne room, Luna walked towards her own private quarters, not realizing that she was trailed by a living shadow. The shadow latched onto the unaware princess, finally starting his plans. 

Celestia, still troubled about Twilight, her friends, and those ruins, looked weary and tired. Her concentration was then fixated on a scroll that appeared in front of her. Luckily, she managed to resolve the issue regarding a certain table before the scroll appeared. With no other stressors present, she unfolded the scroll. 


Dear Princess Celestia, 

I bring great news! Apple Bloom is safe and sound thanks to Thalion. He's a giant "Greater Dragon" as he calls himself, but he can shift his size in order to fit inside buildings. I must admit, I was shocked when I first saw him inside Applejack's house. We were given the chance to talk to him. We're so excited! He was there in those ruins when Apple Bloom fell, and as such, opted to save her. If what Apple Bloom says is true, then he's older than both you and Princess Luna combined!

Your faithful student, 
Twilight


This piqued Celestia's interest. A new being that has lived far longer than she? Somecreature who was within that structure? She sighed, relieved to hear about Apple Bloom as well. Perhaps all her worries were for nothing. However, she noticed that the scroll had more writing. She unfurled it even more.


Dear Princess Celestia, 

Something's off about Thalion but I can't put my hoof into it. Perhaps that's just the way he looks or acts, or maybe he's hiding something else. When asked about his friends, he just felt... distant. It's the same way when he's asked about his family. I don't want to feel paranoid, but if possible, perhaps you would like an audience with him? I want to know if he really is trustworthy or if he's the danger that you mentioned before. I just hope he isn't.

Your faithful student, 
Twilight


That relief slowly faded as she read that last part. If this Thalion really is a threat, he must be dealt with, but, she doesn't want to judge him immediately. "Guards!" She called out. "Alert everypony within this castle that I will be going to Ponyville today for an important meeting. Cancel the day court today." With a quick salute, the guards dashed off to inform the other nobles of the predicament. 

"I hope it's just a mistaken feeling..."





Within a slumbering princess's room, deep purple eyes scroll through its surroundings. It morphed itself and stood within Luna's chambers. Glancing around to see if there was anything of interest, he turned towards the door. Ornate in design, he went towards the bed of the princess. He stared. "My brother told me not to harm you... yet." Carrion said, with a sinister tone. Had this been a normal mission, he would've already made the castle succumb to his poison while allowing his targets to live. They lived, not for the sake of mercy, but for the sake of watching those around them die like flies. He particularly enjoyed it when his victims pleaded for the lives of their loved ones. Not even the children were safe. He knew that if they left the offspring, they would only encounter more soldiers with hatred in their hearts. There were only two children that he valued, and yet, those two are gone.

He heard approaching hoofsteps and morphed himself back into the shadow of the princess. "You are lucky, I do not need to kill you. Not yet." He whispered in her ear, startling the poor mare. "Who goes there?" She asked frantically. When there was no one who responded, she sighed and went back to sleep. "How long has it been since I had animal meat?" Carrion pondered this as he went back into stasis. He'll have to wait for his master to call upon him.

As if to mock the now sleeping alicorn, Carrion called out to her and said ever so innocently, "Sweet dreams."
> Chapter 7
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------







Treachery


Paper scattered as a messenger ran through the stone halls. Soldiers marched as the wounded were transported to a different area of the citadel. What was once a great citadel known for its defense is now burning and on the brink of ruin. Desolation drew near for everyone. Citizens flee in terror, leaving their once great homes. The sight was all too brutal and painful for the lord to see. At the door, a messenger barged in. "Your majesty! The western gates are breached! Multiple casualties were noted!"

A soldier with broken armor then held onto the doors. Tired and wounded, he collapsed to the floor. He did not give up, though, as he crawled towards his lord. "Reinforcements... are not... coming..." The soldier succumbed to his wounds as he lay on the ground, dying. A piece of parchment was in his hands. Finally, the king of the citadel awoke from his trance and marched upon the fallen soldier. He grabbed the parchment and read it, after which he tossed it aside soon after. Disappointment was in his eyes. "Gather the soldiers. It is time to defend our home." The messenger gave a quick salute as he ran, announcing loudly to rally upon their king. The remaining soldiers, tired as they were, gathered all their strength to meet their lord at the citadel gate, where civilians ran in the hope of safety. Most did not make it. 

The king of the citadel marched alongside his generals, their armor made of steel with gold engravements. He held his helmet on his right while his left hand rested on the pommel of his blade. He looked on at the wounded among the halls, legs missing, arms torn to shreds. One even had an axe blade on his back. This infuriated the king. "They've cut off the head of the dragon, and yet, they seem more organized than before," he thought to himself. As they reached the main entrance, he glanced at his men. A soldier then gave him his shield as he wore his helmet. "Men!" He shouted. "We have won countless of battles, gained the blessing of the God of War himself. We fought our enemies to the bitter end, never faltering in the presence of such evil." He paused as he looked at his soldiers. "We have survived, time and time again, and we have proven that we will never be vanquished." The king said as he walked in front of the gates. "So, are we letting such vile beings conquer us after our victory against their lord?" 

"No!" The soldiers said in unison.

"Shall we let them take the lands that our forefathers fought for?" He shouted, raising and closing his fist in front of them. 

"NO!" The soldiers shouted, their fury present.

"Shall we let them do as they please to the lands we valiantly fought for?" He said as he unsheathed his blade, pointing it upwards.

The soldiers shouted in unison, his words echoing within the hearts of his men. He looked at the gates, closed ever tightly. The king raised his shield, pointing at the gates as he ordered his men to ready themselves. "There lies the gates of Hereim, and beyond are the draens and fools who think they can destroy our home." 

"In this moment," he continued, boosting the morale of the soldiers, "on this day, no more shall you be considered as mere soldiers, but great heroes blessed by the God of War. We shall fight to the bitter end, whatever that cost may be. We shall fight our enemies to defend our families, our home, our bastion!" He ordered one of his men to open the gates to hell. A great horn was blown in response to that battlecry. "WE SHALL NEVER SURRENDER!" The soldiers marched alongside their king, their fury ever present, for today, Moldruin stands. 

Bright were their hopes, their sun rising as if the very heavens were with them in this battle. Yet sinister storm clouds appear, blocking their very sun. For in that moment, their enemy stands greater in number. They did not yield. Brave were his men as they stared death in the eyes, their souls were forged with the strongest steel and blessed by the great crafters of the heavens. Their shouts echo within the streets of the city, snow falling ever graceful, landing upon the dead and beaten. 

Then all went silent. And all was calm.





"So, 'commander', what are your orders?" Talios asked the elder novasaurian. To say that he was depressed was an understatement. After all, Aratorias had a relationship with the dwarves. He had great respect towards them. The dwarves of Moldruin, specifically, as they treated his people with respect, not as mindless mounts nor beasts to break the siege. In fact, they treated them like family. The novasaurians of this city helped on their own accord, and the dwarves gave them their freedom. For the first time in many years, he is torn. And as a novasaurian, no, as an alpha himself, it hurts to see his own kin fight against friends, and at that point, family. 

He sighed as he looked away. "Continue the attacks." His soldier nodded and blew the war horns, the signal recognized by the soldiers below. 

"What a great day to destroy the pestilence, don't you think so?" Ratharos said as he placed his hand on his ally's shoulder. "Come, Aratorias. Let us watch as this city burns." He looked at the annoying pest at his shoulder and simply walked away. No point in arguing with a warmongering dragon. Just then, a loud and booming horn thundered on the gates of the great citadel. He glanced at the gates and saw the soldiers rally among their king.

"Good... Very good..." He mumbled to himself. "Talios," he ordered, "I will be going down the mountain. Their king fights with his men, and so must I." Talios bowed as he glanced at the others participating in this battle. "Should we come too? Our numbers are great, and our appearance alone would surely lower their morale-"

"No need." Aratorias said, waving his hand at the idea as he dismissed it and ordered them to stay, not wanting them to get in the way of his personal plan. "Understood, commander." Talios said, walking back to the other generals. 

A few minutes pass after the novasaurian left. He managed to order his men to lead them away from the city and into the cliffside near it. Despite his old age, he was still one of the most powerful among the lords. He was swift as a fox and as mighty as a rhino. And yet, standing before the king and his soldiers was an old man. "King Mithran, an honor to meet you again." He bowed, placing his right hand in his chest. The soldiers were eager to end the snake before them, but the king, to their surprise, ordered them to stand down. "Had this been a normal circumstance, I would have gladly bowed back." 

King Mithran Aramir III, High King of the Dwarves, Champion of Moldruin, stood tall and glared at his enemy. "What a shame, I have been looking forward to meeting you once more." Aratorias said as he sat down. "Come, have a seat with me, old friend." 

Mithran took a second and calmly walked towards Aratorias. While a battle was indeed happening, this was a mighty chance to talk to the enemy. The king sat in front of Aratorias, looking back at his soldiers and giving them a wave of a hand. To his surprise though, his enemy was offering him alcohol. "It is not poisoned. Watch." Aratorias drank the beverage and poured some for his guest. "Tell me, how is Litharna?" Aratorias asked casually, sipping on his cup. Mithran chuckled as he shook his head. "Ever the stubborn one. You novasaurians really are hard-headed." 

This made Aratorias beam with joy. "Aye, we tend to stay true to our words, even to a fault." He looked soberly at his cup. "We really are a hard-headed lot." Aratorias then poured a bit more of alcohol on his cup. "I sure hope you take care of your wife. She can get a bit... what was the word for it?" Mithran stared at Aratorias, finally letting go of his demeanor. He chuckled and sighed. "Don't push yourself, professor. You know how you are when you think hard on a subject." 

"Ah, it has been so long since I last heard that title..." Aratorias said, taking another sip from his cup.

And then there was silence. The cold winds of winter blew, shaking the trees and rattling the pine leaves. It was... calming. Breaking the silence, the king glanced at his cup, taking a sip of the alcohol. "Why do you push yourself in a war that you dread?" Mithran said, concerned for his former teacher.

"It is as you said. We are ever the stubborn ones," he looked at the sky as snow started to fall, "my loyalty to my master is ever going strong." 

"But why? You saw the deaths. You saw how they burned villages. Why be loyal to someone so... monstrous?" Mithran asked, genuinely wanting to know why his teacher joined such dark forces. Aratorias looked at him, almost as if he was looking at his own child. "He used to fight for something else." 

"And what would that be? Desolation? Madness? The riches of the people?" Mithran asked, agitated at his answer. Aratorias then shook his head.

"Freedom." 

Aratorias then stood, walking towards the cliffside. He watched the waves, the sun, the birds flying across the windy skies. "When I first joined twenty thousand years ago, when I first met the master, he was one of sorrow. However, despite of that sorrow, he helped every creature find their place. He saved those who were about to be enslaved, those who were about to be placed in the pits of the arenas. He saved me. Their loyalty is true for that reason. My own loyalty is true for that very reason." He paused, looking back at Mithran as he grabbed something out of his pocket. "When I joined, I asked him to leave Moldruin alone. And here I stayed along with my brethren. Here I taught young, bright minds, from your ancestor to your father." He glanced at the pendant, slowly closing his hands and placing it at his lips. "Here, I found the love of my life, a foreigner, not even a citizen of the city; a stripedmark beastkin." 

He went back to Mithran as he gave him the pendant. The pendant looked like a claw with black markings surrounding it. He continued to speak, a hint of sadness can be heard from his voice. "The hate and the agony that the elves gave her when she was with me, the scorn of the commonfolk as they spat at her... It was all too much to bear. I saw how they treated the other beastkin, and how they treated her kin..." He grimaced at the thought. 

"All of the bloodshed, families torn, starvation and devastation... to prove what exactly? That treating evil with evil is the only way?" Mithran exlaimed, standing upwards as he glared at his teacher. "You've murdered hundreds, millions even, when all that could've been done is to settle it accordingly and peacefully... Do not tell me that your cause is just."

"It isn't. It no longer is." Aratorias turned around, looking back at the sea. "We've lost that cause after a few years of war. We've lost it when our master lost his way..." 

"So why didn't you leave? Why stay with such monsters?" Mithran asked angrily. "They are not monsters! They are people too, born in a world where they were hated due to their flesh and blood." Aratorias countered as he inhaled deeply, smoke coming out of his mouth. He then exhaled, allowing the smoke to dissipate. "I stayed because I know I no longer have a place in society. I stayed for the sake of my granddaughter's sanity. I stayed because I thought I could change his ways... I was wrong. The straw that broke my back was when I was ordered to attack this place by the second-in-command." He sighed, placing his hand on the ridge of his nose. "They are all far too gone... All they wish for is decimation and bloodshed." 

Silence. Mithran glanced at his soldiers, then back at the tired old man.

"So... what do you plan to do." Mithran spoke, not wanting to pester the tired novasaurian in front of him. "I plan to try and do the right thing, starting with my granddaughter." Mithran was taken aback. He said he was loyal, and yet, his enemy is here, in a state unknown to him. "I surrender..." Aratorias said, tiredly. Mithran did not react. He did not even flinch. "Who is she?" Curious, Mithran asked Aratorias about her. "Her name is Taraminea, my precious little Tigrea." 

Mithran nodded. "I see." 

"I plan to leave with my granddaughter and inform my master, should he ever return, either by faking our deaths or even by surrendering." He glanced back at the sky, snow falling at his fingertips. "I want to start a new life... one where I can uphold my promise to her..." 

Mithran sighed. "I..." he stammered, "I do not know what to do but I am willing to help you..." Aratorias bowed at the king, one that he has done before. Mithran, now allowing himself to see the true nature of his enemy, bowed back. They both smiled, willing to finally put this issue to rest. Of course, this does not free Aratorias of his sins. As such, he told Mithran to treat him, along with those who wish to surrender, as humanely as possible. Mithran nodded and gave his word. In truth, he didn't want to fight the novasaurians.

Just then, a shadow flew past them. Without a second to react, a sword impaled Aratorias in the back. He gasped, looking at the one who dared. "Oh, so unwise." The assailant said with a snarl. "Ra...tharos?" 

Ratharos smiled sinisterly. "Indeed, it is I." He plunged the sword deeper into Aratorias, blood spewing more and more from his chest. "What have... you done?" 

He looked at Aratorias with a confused look. "What have I done? What have you done? Surrendering at the enemy..." He snarled, "Do you honestly think you can do such a thing?" He then glanced at the dwarves, all getting ready to attack. As they did so, he blew the horn three times, alerting the army of their need of assistance. Knowing that the army is coming their way, Aratorias opened a portal with his dying breath. "That... leads to... mines... Your people..." He coughed, gasping for air. Ratharos was not pleased. He grabbed Aratorias and flung him into the ground. "Save... Tigrea... please..." The king saw this and ordered his men to retreat. "Oh no, not this time, dwarvish pests!" 

A bright light then struck Ratharos, temporarily blinding him. "Go, my liege! We'll hold the line." The king nodded to some of his men and ordered the rest to retreat. Holding onto the pendant, he looked one last time at his teacher and entered the portal. 

This angered Ratharos as he proceeded to lash out on the dwarves in front of him. He didn't kill them though. He has a plan. He then looked at the struggling Aratorias. He picked him up by the neck, choking the already moribund novasaurian. "Honestly, to think that you are this weak... I even prepared to go all out against you..." He then crushed his windpipe as Ratharos then shook his head. "Oh well," he smirked, "such a wasted opportunity." He then threw his lifeless body in the sea as he proceeded to turn his attention towards the unconscious dwarves. "Now then, to remove the evidence." He then opened the dwarves' mouths and tore their tongues out. As he finished doing so, the army arrived.





At the Wroughtdrake Citadel, all lords were summoned. Every lord went as the summons were under the category of urgent. They were all in their seats, waiting for whatever it is they were summoned for. However, it seems that one was missing. "Where's the old man?" Tigrea asked, but the rest looked away. Annoyed, she looked somewhere else, lest she beats them all up in her annoyance. Just then, the doors opened, revealing captured dwarves and a rather gloomy Ratharos. 

He went to the front, near the throne of their master. "My friends," he paused, "I bring... morbid news." He looked at everyone, making sure that he looked the part of a grieving person. "The rest of us were ordered to conquer Moldruin, and for that we prepared, yet it would never truly prepare us to lose one we called our friend." He glanced around as different reactions can be heard. Tigrea, however, didn't even talk. She looked at Ratharos, an expression she never had in years. "My friends, today, we lost Aratorias to these wretched dwarves. These... these... bastards ambushed him and slew him with this blade!" He raised the blade up high as he threw it in the ground. "The nerve of these dwarves to show no honor!" He then grabbed one of the soldiers and tossed him back into the floor. "Then... they threw him off!" He shuddered, "All I could do was watch... I was too late..."

He then inhaled. "I was too late to save him... We won... but at what cost?" He then glanced at Tigrea. She was... calm. She stood up and walked towards the soldiers. Not even batting an eye, Tigrea extended her claws and swiped at their throats. It was a swift death. She sighed, turned around, and headed to the doors. 

Then all went silent. And all was at the state of unrest.
> Chapter 8
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------





Two figures stood together, hand in hand, across the golden fields of flowers. One seemed to have horns and a massive tail, while the other seemed delicate in nature, the long dress simply flowing along with the wind. A serene sight to behold. 

"And I vow to always love you." The woman said.
"And I vow to always be by your side." The horned-being said.

"And I will always be truthful, I will always be faithful. My words shall never hurt you, for your love is what I will always pursue. May our hearts beat as one, for I vow to always cherish you, for a thousand moons and a thousand suns.
I love you..."

And the voice faded away...






And so it begins...


Deep in the ruins within the Everfree, a dragon dreamt of the past. A rare and relaxing moment for the one they called the Scourge. However, all good things must come to an end, as the dragon finally joins the rest of the waking world. As he opened his eyes, a tiny figure with a few boxes behind greeted him. A mushroom, no bigger than the filly that he saved from this wretched place. "Ah, so the big guy's awake, hmm hmm." It spoke. "I thought you'd awaken after a hundred nights again, yes yes." He stood up, scratching his chin as he removed his bag and grabbed what seemed to be a pitcher of water. "How are you, old friend?" The mushroom smiled, taking a swig directly from the pitcher.

Thalion simply lifted his head as he stared at the mushroom in front of him. "Ah, what brings you here, Arum Thaan'nail?" The mushroom simply shook his head, unthreatened and unbothered by the large dragon in front of him. "Always straight to the point, hmm?" He drank once more as he exhaled with satisfaction. "Also, do know that I'm known now as Arumnis, hmm hmm." He then placed the pitcher back in his bag and grabbed what appears to be a long wooden staff, chanting a bit as he pointed the staff towards Thalion, alongside a bottle of beer. 

"Hmm, so you really aren't an illusion... Though," he chuckled, "it would be really weird if you were, yes yes." Thalion simply flicked his tail as he looked at the hole in the ceiling. "So... this was were you went." Thalion said, a bit relieved to see an old face. "Indeed, indeed. Look at you now, hmm. Smaller than before, did you use shrinking magic?" Thalion simply chuckled at his comments. "I fear being in my original size would only cause unnecessary panic." 

"Ah, yes, it will, most definitely." He laughed heartily. "So, why is the Scourge in such a peaceful place?" His tone shifting, no longer sounding like the fun-loving mushroom. Thalion recognized this tone. The tone that sent shivers down to the bones of those unfortunate enough to encounter "Arumnis". 

"And tell me, what has garnered your wrath to even try and speak with that old tone of yours, dear friend?" 

Arumnis stopped and pondered, looking at the shackled form of Thalion as he gazed in the eyes of the beast in front of him. He sighed and scratched his chin, looking at the now empty bottle that fell upon the cavern floor. And then he chuckled.

"Is it ever so wrong to be worried for a friend? Or is it wrong since I am worried for the likes of you?" Arumnis said, smiling warmly at Thalion. The old smile that Thalion was accustomed to. That old smile from the olden days. 

"Tell me, hmm, of your adventures in this world," Arumnis said, climbing on the boxes he set inside the tomb. "I heard that you saved a filly, no?" He continued, finally finding a comfortable spot to sit on. Thalion merely glared at him and sighed. Words travel quite fast. "Had it been a different occasion, I would have only watched." 

"And yet you didn't, hmm," Arumnis stated, pointing at Thalion with intrigue. "It was not by choice. It was more so by sheer coincidence and luck!" Thalion snarled, tempted to use Arumnis as a toothpick.

"That's what they all say, hmm. I know when someone is tired from something, or in your case, some world," Arumnis said, bringing back that cold tone. "You freed yourself with the help of that filly, and now you are curious. Curious to this world and curious to the beings living within this world. Why fight that desire for peace, old friend?" He looked down at his own hands, contemplating upon his own words. "I have done unspeakable things, and yet, I found the solace of rest in this place. You should too. Though, that does not excuse you for bringing Carrion in the mix. You know how dedicated he is to your cause." He stared at Thalion, worry written upon his face. "You didn't order him to do anything... drastic... did you?"

Thalion sighed, "I have only ordered him to gather information," he said darkly. He then opened his claws, and with a quick breath, he said stoically, "For now at least..." 

"The rulers of this world are safe, lest I have no more need for them. And I plan to keep it that way." He said, smoke rising from his mouth. 

"And what happens when you no longer have that need for them?" Arumnis questioned cautiously. Deep down, however, he already knows the answer. "I plan to give their bodies to the Insektons, maybe even force the 'Elements of Harmony' to finally finish off those inglorious buffoons who dared challenge me." A smile can be briefly seen in the muzzle of the dragon. "Perhaps you want to join me, one last time, old friend?" 

Arumnis simply looked down and sighed. "You really have lost your way, Thalion." Thalion, upon hearing this, smashed his claws on the ground, letting out a growl. "Do not dare speak to me that way, Arum Thaan'nail! Or have you forgotten your loyalty towards MY cause before you abandoned us all?" 

"A mistake I shouldn't have done..." Arumnis said, defeated. "Your care for the 'civilized' will be your downfall, Arum Thaan'nail." Arumnis simply chuckled, picking himself up. "Ah well, your care for animals might bring you bad luck soon, hmm?" 

Thalion glared, and with a few minutes of dreadful silence, finally spoke. "Do you plan to stop me?" 

Arumnis simply sighed. "You assume too much, dear friend." Thalion simply grunted. "I will forgive you for your transgressions, if only you answer my inquiries," Thalion said as he loomed towards the sitting mushroom. "You've been here for so long, perhaps you know of a few who might want to join my cause?" Arumnis nodded, finally relenting to Thalion's powerful aura, though, this did not damper his smile. "I know of a few, however, you might want to know who brought you here in the first place," Arumnis said, piquing the interests of Thalion whilst walking towards the light provided by the hole in the ceiling. "His name is Discord, and he is currently a statue in the Royal Gardens. How and why, I do not know. But the moment I felt a strong and powerful surge of magic, I decided to go to Canterlot to... investigate." He then laughed, "After all, I am a merchant. I should try and cater to every creature, right?" 

Thalion chuckled at his words. "And you tell me that I have lost my way. Tell me, whatever has happened to my prideful general?" Arumnis, upon hearing those words, simply clutched on his sleeves and answered. "That line of work does not fit me. Had I remained a scout, I would have probably stayed for the most part." 

"Besides," Arumnis paused, sensing movement upon the corridor. "It appears we have guests," Thalion stated, sensing the intruder as well. "Your senses are still as sharp as they were, old friend." 

There, outside the doorway stood the Princess of the Sun, horrified at what she heard. Not only was she horrified about the dastard plans of the dragon, she felt betrayed. Betrayed that Arumnis, who she considered a dear friend, would give information to the one who blatantly stated his villainous plans. The same being associated with those runes. The same runes that caused her nightmares. She was no longer safe. The once regal and brave princess quivered upon the unholy sight. She backed away slowly, her hooves ever shaking. 

"Arumnis... no..." It was all that she could muster as a force powerful enough pulled her closer towards the beast. She wanted to run. She could have. But that moment tarnished her thoughts. She could not believe it. All her secrets and her woes, she trusted him. "How could you?!" Enraged, she started to thrash about, trying her damn hardest to escape. But she couldn't.

"You've heard too much, Princess." It spoke. And with that statement, the darkness of the void started to fill her vision. 





When Celestia left the palace, she did not expect her day to be like this. Being trapped in the claws of a dragon from another world, no, being trapped in the claws of a warlord who feeds in the deaths of those he deems worthless. Such a vile creature should not have been given the chance to roam. Now, all she hopes for is the safety of her citizens, her student, her friends, and most importantly, her sister. 

She awoke after a few minutes, maybe even hours, who knows at this point. The only time she decided not to bring her Royal Guards, how shameful of her. She has ruled over a thousand years, even more, and she still gave in to her hubris. What broke her even more was the knowledge that the one friend she has counted on, the one who has lived a long life with her and gave her the peace of mind she needed, turned out to be such a monster as well. If what she heard was true, then this Arumnis, despite being "neutral and changed", had been with the warlord and has given him all the knowledge that he may seek. She was devastated. But if what she heard was true, then perhaps she really had a friend in him. 

"Ah, so she awakes." She turned around to face that disgusting creature, only to find a bipedal creature standing before her, his horns being the most prominent feature. Beside him was Arumnis, who she has conflicting feelings about at the moment. She tried to move, but she could not. 

"It is an honor to meet you, your grace." The biped spoke, bowing his head as he greeted her without malice in his voice. "Who are you?" Celestia said, thinking of ways to escape. "I assure you, you won't be able to escape. Not until I am done with you," the biped said with a harsh tone. "To answer your question, however, I am the same dragon from before." 

Dread filled her eyes, her body quivered. The dragon has powerful magic, not known to any pony, griffin, or any dragonkind on this world. She bit her lip to try and stay focused, blood drenching her lower muzzle. "You really are despicable," she said, anger apparent in her eyes as she glared at the biped. This only angered the biped as he grabbed her by the neck and brought her closer to his eyes. "I could strangle you right now," he said, "if only to see your world burn. But I will not. Not now." He let his grip loosen as she fell on the floor. Gasping for air, Celestia once again tried to move, but could not. It was as if she was paralyzed. 

Upon sight of this, Thalion pointed at her with two fingers and released her magical binds, but only for a slight release. After all, it would be a stupid move to let her go. Celestia, weak as she might be, crawled towards Arumnis, tears in her eyes. "H-how could you?" She said, waiting for an explanation. But Arumnis simply turned away. Her heart sank. Was this really all there was to their friendship? She clung towards him, pleading, begging for an answer, but Arumnis simply stared at her. Who was this? This was not the Arumnis she knew. 

"I will make a deal with you." Thalion said, prompting her to look back. 

"Relax, both deals won't involve the harming of your subjects," he said, coyly. "All I ever wanted was to bring a stop to the war once and for all." 

She fell silent as she waited for him to continue. "Either you keep the secret and your sister would not be harmed, or be under my control. It's simple, right?" He chuckled as he held her chin, bringing her face towards him. "It's a simple bargain, honest." Thalion smiled sinisterly.

"And what if I disagree on both?" She stared at Thalion with such righteous fury. A stare that can melt iron. 

"Well, let's just say," he paused, magically conjuring an orb. An orb that showed exactly what would happen should she decline both offers. All of which ending the same. Her sister's head, stuck in a wall along side those she cared for. Their blood flooding the streets of Canterlot. 

All she could do was scream. She screamed and screamed. She pleaded to the beast, but it was to no avail. The horror. And then she felt it, some sort of magic gripping upon her tightly, like a snake ready to devour their prey. She could not even answer as her mind went blank. She could not even speak.

"Arise, princess, for you have only one purpose." Thalion said. And she did. She arose like nothing has happened. There was no resistance, not even a single sound. She simply did what she was told. She was controlled like a puppet. "Your purpose, is to simply put Twilight's mind at ease about this whole situation and return to Canterlot." 

She nodded as she bowed her head. 

And when she heard a snap, she awoke from her "slumber", only to find that she was by the entrance to the Everfree. Her mind filled with false memories, of how she met Thalion and how she had a great time talking with him, unaware of the horrid truth. And so, she walked towards the library, excited to tell her most faithful student about her pleasant encounters with Thalion. Her mind filled with philosophies from another world, the courageous acts of valiant sacrifices. She knew that she could trust him. She remembers asking about the runes, to which Thalion replied that the runes were purposefully casted with dark magic in hopes to break his spirit.





"So, why did you let her leave?" Arumnis asked, silently thanking the Primes that Thalion just let her go like that. His friend... "Oh Celestia, I hope you are alright..." he muttered to himself. "After threatening her like that, why simply let her leave with false memories?" Thalion simply looked at Arumnis, as if he was expecting him to answer his own questions. "Tell me, wouldn't it be better that Twilight, the one who seems to be the most suspicious of me, trust in me due to the words of her mentor? Wouldn't it be easier then to gain the trust of the other Elements should she finally get confirmation from her beloved mentor?" Thalion then shrugged. "Besides, I have better plans for her dear sister anyway." Thalion smirked as his shadow departed from his body. "Eager to follow orders, he is." Arumnis sighed. 

"This will not be the last that we would meet. I have to set up my stall for the ponies at Ponyville. Maybe even earn a large sum." He tipped his hat and moved towards his own bags and crates. Thalion simply nodded as he transformed back into his dragon form and lied down upon the cold floors of the tomb. "Even after these events, it is really is nice to see you again, Thalion." And with that last statement, Arumnis vanished within a blink of an eye. 

"It sure is..." 

Thalion then pondered. Has he really lost his way?
> Chapter ???
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Allow me to paint you a picture of a world lost long ago...


One often seeks those that one cannot obtain. It matters not who they are, for they will try as hard as they can to grab and hold onto it. Whether through the intervention of fate or sheer chance, those who do become known as legends. However, it is only through the vision of others that they become the said legends.

However, our story does not speak of legends. It speaks of uncharted lands and mere optimistic dreams, once honored by many, now lay forgotten at the hands of time. Our tale follows that of a young princess, a fair maiden upon the wretched and tarnished lands.

Ancient tomes speak of a land ruled by a mighty king of Commonfolk nature. And with a mighty ruler, a prosperous kingdom lay untouched by the hands of those who sought to tarnish it. And with a mighty king, there stood a benevolent queen. The two rulers partake in their own accords, each ruling in their own way. The king frequently attends to his armies, whereas the queen stays with her people. Two sides of a coin.

They were blessed with three children—two that hold the light of the kingdom, while the other held pity. Evidently, these two were pampered by their peers, engulfed with treasure upon treasure, hoards of gems upon their own liking, while the other merely existed. 

Eleir and Mythir were the brothers' names, with others addressing them as the Sun and the Moon. Though not related to the celestial bodies of the sky, the two were honored as such because it is their namesake. Their sister, however, is merely known as her namesake, that of which is the sky. They are not pantheons nor champions of such, they were simply given those names to please and honor the Primes who gave them their own land to rule. 

While the two got whatever they wanted, she simply indulged in the normal things in life, refusing the gifts given to her. One particular place she loves more than anything else was the calming and serene gardens of the castle. There she would sit and cry about whatever troubles her at that time. 

She found solace in such a place after her mother's passing, which wasn't long after her third birthday. With the passing of their queen, the kingdom began to be torn on what to do. As such, the princes came forth and filled the role of their mother, and became the light for their people. With this, they had less time to be with their younger sister, and as such, she was left to wallow in her own isolation and despair. And with all of this happening around her, the young princess withdrew herself from everyone. 

Showing a moment of weakness, a lady dressed in red wandered through the kingdom grounds, in search of the princess. Her face, vivid with life, saw the princess within the garden and struck her with a powerful curse before cackling like a mad hyena. Without anyone even noticing, she left the castle grounds, proud of her work. The princess, on the other hand, panicked and tried to tell anyone, only to find that her voice was missing. She tried desperately to speak and utter a single word, yet none came out. The wicked witch in red took her voice and casted it into the unknown, forever binding her in silence. 

The king, upon learning of this, summoned every single doctor within his lands to cure her of her sickness, yet all failed to do so. Because of the princess, their credibility as doctors and healers dropped, and they blamed her for something she never caused in the first place. 

On her seventh birthday, instead of receiving gifts, her friends decided to play a cruel prank on her, one that involved snakes and mud. They dunked mud upon her hair and shoved her within a pit filled with the illusions of snakes. Not even her brothers helped. Instead, they laughed at such a thing. She cried and cried, missing out on her own birthday party.

On her tenth birthday, when her brothers found her on the garden, they decided to desecrate her flowers that she ever so lovingly gave her best to grow. Despite trying to fight back, and desperately telling her father of their wrong doings, their father merely brushed it off as a simple problem, paying it no mind. 

The bullying only got worse.

And by the time she reached her eleventh birthday, she has had enough. She left the castle grounds and ventured to a nearby forest. In that forest, she has encountered wolves and owls, beasts she never recognized. Fear encroached her entire body. In her attempts to leave the "safe haven" of her home to avoid her would be oppressors, she has reached a place of no return. Will she die here? Why did she even do this? It was all she could think of. When a hungry wolf came by, she tried to run away. She ran, and ran, tearing her cloak and a piece of her dress. When the wolf was about to reach her, she tripped and fell in a pit and into an unknown clearing. 

When she awoke, she cried. She cried because of her own stupidity. She cried because of her mistakes. She cried because of the pain. The pain of it all, living as someone never understood her, living that her mother is no longer there to comfort her, living... 

It was because of her crying that she met two individuals residing in the forest. She looked at them, she feared them, and decided to crawl away. She crawled and crawled, eventually reaching a wall. She closed her eyes, awaiting her own death, only to be surprised when one of them simply wiped her tears away. She was... surprised, baffled even. 

The being then spoke, told her his and his companion's name. Apparently they were brothers. When he asked her of her name, she tried to speak, only remembering that she can't. She looked away, embarrassed at the situation. She feared they would make fun of her, just like the others. Instead, when she looked upon them, all she could see was worry. Worry from such strangers...

The boy with the horns simply drew a circle on the ground while the boy with the hat whispered something on it. To her surprise, the circle glowed, and with it, some liquid substance was made. The boy with the horns then scooped the liquid and rubbed it in her throat, chanting once more. He told her to speak again, but she was too afraid. What did they do to her? Was that magic? So many questions, yet she couldn't even ask them. With nothing to lose at that point, she began to speak, only to hear such a raspy voice. She coughed and coughed, and then spoke again. Her voice was back! 

She hugged and thanked the two of them, only for her smile to falter as her body ached from the sudden movement. She was still in pain. The boy with the hat cocked his head and simply smiled. He then told her to calm down, and that they will take her home, not without healing her, of course. 

When she returned home, the king and her siblings were worried. For the first time in forever, her own kin is worried about her safety. She giggled and laughed, surprising the king and her siblings. The sound of her voice, ever as bright as the day she lost it. She smiled and wholeheartedly hugged the three of them, speaking for the first time. The king, stunned and amazed by this, decided to hold a feast for his daughter. She was, however, sad that her new friends didn't enter the castle. They did say that they needed to get home. How they could get home is beyond her. 

When night came, and she was within the confines of her room, she twirled around and laid upon her bed, smiling that the curse has been removed by two that she can call her friends, strange as they may be. A knock by the window distracted her from her musings. Confused, she looked at her window, only to find the boy with the weird looking horns, sitting in a tree branch near her window. When she asked how he knocked, he simply said that he knocked. 

"I never got your name, milady," the boy said, clearly annoyed at the instance. He really wanted to get inside and maybe grab a few meals on the way. 

"Miri," she stated. "It's Miri," she said, smiling at the boy.

The boy simply smirked as he stood in the branch. "Well, you best remember our names too, okay?" He said as he jumped down, waving at the girl by the window, only to hit himself in the face with another tree branch.

She giggled as she stared at her friend's antics. She waved him goodbye, still giggling at his embarrassment. "Goodbye, Thaly!"

Upon regaining her voice, she began to be happier. Happier that she can follow in her mother's footsteps as a humble artist in the ways of song. Happier mostly in the arms of her true friends, those two boys who came by in a mere coincidence. Happier was she when she finally got the recognition from her father. Happier in living. Yet, it still troubles her that the ones who she calls her friends refuse to come with her inside her own home, only ever visiting her in the gardens. The only time they ever got inside was due to sneaking in; their magic was great with a power to warp into her room by a summons in the form of a magic circle, one that she begged to learn so she can have someone to talk to. She only managed to do it once. 

Upon learning that she can do magic, she asked her father for a tutor that dabbles in the arts of magic. Her father agreed, as his sons were asking for one as well. She, along with her brothers, got their own tutor, allowing them equal opportunity to learn magic. Out of the three of them, she was the only one who managed to grasp the full concept of the scholarly art. 

A few years went by as quickly as the seasons. Little did she know that she would ever fall for one of her friends. On her thirteenth birthday, she saw the two boys, now teenagers, dressed in royal suits, sitting on the balcony's edges while holding their own plates. To her surprise, they were there of their own accord. However, as she knows how things happen, she was expecting something from her other friends. In some ways, it's sinister. However, the moment her friends came by to initiate the prank, she was suddenly grabbed by none other than the boy with the horns. To her surprise, however, his horns were gone. 

He slyly smirked as he held her hand, inviting her to dance. She had the time of her life. She enjoyed seeing the both of them pulling pranks on her would be pranksters, grabbing food and placing it in their "pouch of infinite things", and generally being with her in the castle grounds for the first time. When the party ended, they decided to go to the gardens, spending more time with each other. She knew for sure that this was love. Love at the purest form. 

Her heart was beating faster, and her face was flushed as red as a rose. She could not take it any more. She could not hold this feeling anymore. However, she herself was surprised when the boy with the horns confessed his love for her. She did not know nor did she see the signs, her naivety to blame. She only thought of it as him being him. 

The boy with the hat simply shook his head at the sight of it all. His two best friends, fluttering about all skittishly. He simply sighed and told them to say what they want to say as he will simply warp back home. The boy with the horns, annoyed by this, simply swatted at his brother. Miri laughed at their shenanigans, loving every single bit spent with these two. They filled the void that she thought would never be filled. No longer was she in isolation and despair. 

When the moon rose high in the sky, she decided to go home and part ways with her friends. Upon reaching her room, she looked upon her wardrobe. Before undressing, however, a knock by her window can be heard. There, in the open window, sat the boy with the horns.

"Pray tell, he who walks unseen, do you plan on striking the branches with your face, again?" Miri mocked, smirking at the boy. The boy simply smirked back. "No, but I do plan on hitting the rock once I jump down," he said, earning the laughter of his dearly beloved. "Chaotic, it is, when two hearts beat as one," the boy with the horns said as he walked near her mirror, inspecting it while cocking his head to the side. Miri simply blushed at this, hiding her own face with her hands. "Don't hide, you're cuter that way..." 

The moment she looked at him, he was gone. She turned around, only to feel a gentle press upon her lips. Shocked yet curious, she gently pushed him away, touching her lips soon after. "W-what?" she said, looking at him with caring yet bashful eyes. "Well, you best remember this day too, milady," he said as he smirked, waving his hand as he jumped off the window, walking away with his brother.

Wanting to scream at him for his actions, she found that she fell silent, lost for words for what just happened. In truth, she wanted this. She simply looked outside the window, her childhood innocence gone. She looked at him dreamily as she sighed, "Goodbye, Thaly..."