> Descent into Darkness > by Raven Shadow > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- > Chapter 1 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Descent into Darkness I am king Sombra. I rule the Crystal Empire... At least I did. Ha ha ha those were the best days I have ever experienced. I mean they obeyed my every command without a second thought haha. They worked my mines to bring so many crystals to me, fitting because they were the Crystal Ponies hahaha. Then those wretched do goody sisters showed up and ruined everything! I hate them... And I fear them... How easily they could have killed me with their power, maybe one on one I could have beaten them and forced them into being my slaves. I have fancied that thought for a long time. Just imagine it, the two royal sisters bowing before me hahaha oh what a wonderful thought. Then the land would've been just there for the taking... But it's just a thought nothing more. Oh how bored you must be with me talking to you, oh boo hoo how sad you're listening to me. I never asked you to, you just did. Hahaha that's right I'm supposed to be dead, I'm not. Seriously how many times do I have to explain this? My horn is the source of my power as long as my horn is ok I'm ok. Ok I see your question, "What about the time when the magical barrier cut your horn in half?" I was a shade, not really me. If you would so kindly remember my horn was flung far away from my beloved empire, hence how I am speaking to you now. But how I lived will be a other story. This is how I became the legendary King Sombra, ah I see you brought a chair haha. I admit I expected to be defeated by the mane six, you try to be an figure of evil and then confronted with the Elements of Harmony. Tell me how you would fare. Not very well. Just calm down I'll tell you my story... Now where to begin? Ah I'll start there. I was born into fairly noble family in the Crystal Empire, I can't remember who were my mother and father are. But I can say they didn't care about their son... How crushing. I studied and studied to show my parents I was worth loving, again to no avail. They put me into at the time the highest academic program the empire had to offer, ah yes the High Arts Imperial Academy. This was when I was about six or seven, I can't really remember. The days in the academy were rigorous and filled with extremely high risk extra credit opportunities, so much fun. I saw many a time when magical went wrong, sometimes harmlessly others tragically. Some were quite hilarious like the magical anamorphic spell hahaha, a class mate of mine turned in a rabbit bwahahaha that is still funny. I mean a proud student turned into a little fluffy bunny hahaha, her magic was very unstable. That was my first day. The school itself was a militaristic training ground, we shared our happiness with the whole world, we safeguarded it fiercely. I on the other hand was superb with the spell I expertly weaved. I preformed the levantiness resduh, or in words of the common ponies, Fiery levitation. My instructor was very impressed with my skill in execution of such a difficult spell. The spell itself was very superb, the flames leapt up pulling me into the air. A whirlwind of fire held me for close to five minutes, a feat which greatly impressed the commandant of the academy. She wanted to see my skills personally. After a great deal of courage from my part, she was highly enthused with how much potential I held. As a matter of fact she sent a letter to the Princesses themselves! Back before I would know them as my foes... But they responded with a haste that surprised my commandant. Well with that I was sent to the Canterlot Palace in a rushed fashion, I never saw my parents again after I left. Well I see you're growing tired of my history but I must say you've been a good sport for sitting here so long, tell you what. I will let you take a break, stretch your legs, and grab some cider. ... Welcome back, now where did I leave off? Oh yes I remember I was taken to the Canterlot Palace. Please take your seat. I said TAKE YOUR SEAT. Thank you. My childhood was mixed with good and bad times, well as I arrived in Canterlot and I must say not very impressive... In the Crystal Empire everything had a shine and this place, dull and dreadfully boring. I made my way past the royal barracks, this gained my respect. As I passed I could hear combat training, my I must say such a sound was calming. Through each hall I walked, guards at every corner. I expected as much a newly established kingdom, after Discord's reign. The two fat cats... You know as Celestia and Luna, sat upon their thrones. Their faces then were delicate but with an edge, after all they freed the land from Discord, wouldn't you be rough around the edges? I took notice of their regal postures, so high and mighty. I even tried to make myself look more respectful, a pitiful attempt when in their presence. I tripped in front of them, I scraped my knees and ruined my coats shine... If that wasn't bad enough, they gave a quite loud chuckle about that... So let me say this for being a Crystal pony I no longer looked like one, and the princesses were laughing at me. This was where I first experienced pure hatred... Being so young I had no idea what this burning rage was. Well this is what I expected to hear from them. "Well for being so talented he is clumsy." What I heard was. "Oh my are you ok? We are sorry we laughed we thought you meant to do that." And I'm supposed to believe that? Well they seemed sincere about it. So they asked me if I was well enough to show off my skills, well I did. They were fairly impressed, well I hoped for training as a royal guard. Instead I was put into a school in the "wonderful Ponyvile Elementary School." whoopee... I thought the mighty princesses would teach me how to harness my power, no I get stuck with morons... Yippee. Well, that's enough for today > Hatred unto ME > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome back, yes it's still me. King Sombra. Where was I? Oh yes my first day in Ponyvile school. Well as I expected nothing but simpletons, the nerve they had! Well fine I will tolerate them, after all I am far superior to them. So I guess this shall work until the princesses realize their error. Well first day, everypony said present when our teacher called our names. Then my turn. "Sombra? Am I reading this correctly?" I spoke up with charm and intellect. "Why yes it is ma'am pleased to meet you." With that I received many glares, each one telling me I was unwelcome. Oh the fun we learned shapes, letters, and numbers oh boy that was swell! (I hope you understand sarcasm). Well the first school year was dreadful but I learned quickly normal ponies don't take kindly to a Crystal Pony. As far as I was concerned they could stick it where the sun don't shine. The second year was much more trying for me, this would be my first year to experience bullies. Well I was making my way out of the class room when four young colts crept up from behind and those simpletons proceeded to kick, smack, and punch me. As usual I couldn't see it coming, and I was thrashed. For what seemed as hours they berated me as hard as they could. Everyday this happened, for three years. My hatred grew for Equestrian ponies, if you were to ask me if I would save them I would spit in your face! No no I would vomit on the suggestion. I think you felt that way before. Hahaha well let's see how life is for those wretched ponies... Damn they're still happy? How can they be? Even though young colts are being pushed into the dirt like me. Oh confound them, I just can't wait till dark magic is used more openly. Hahaha then somepony will get curious. Fine I'll keep going! The last year I received those idiots beatings, I conjured up all the hatred I had for them, well I won't exaggerate the details but I pushed them away with my now well focused power. Bwahahaha those children were terrified of what I could do! As almost I flicked my hoof at them, the sight of them running away was most pleasing. Until they reported me to the teacher. Such weaklings relying on others to protect themselves. I wasn't bothered by those fools again. But they were replaced with others, arrogant pegasi, self-righteous unicorns, and fumbling earth ponies. Aaaaaaaggggghhhhhh I hate school. I had to deal with morons nearly all my life, or someone that truly believed they were better than me! Me? I am King Sombra! I am the most gifted of my kind! Yet others of the unicorn kind seemed so sure that they could beat me in a duel, the nerve! Most of my teenage years was spent dueling with these lesser skilled, pitiful, and to a lesser extent just downright idiots. Oh how I hate repeating myself over and over again, everyday for magical defense. Everypony wanted to prove themselves to the teachers by knocking me down a peg. Fools. For four years this was routine. Until I met her... Another Crystal pony, like me. But she was spectacular in every way. Her grace nearly blinded me, in a good way. Her steps drew closer to me, sweat fell from my forehead. Now inches away from me, she began to inspect me. Her coat was so beautiful with that shine of our home land. Ok ok ok, I admit it. I had my first crush, so late in school you say? Nopony ever caught my attention like her... Eyes of blue that could fill an ocean, hair with gold, red, and black streaks shimmered in the light. Her coat so pure. When she asked me my name I was in shock. Utter shock. Well I made myself into the best suitor in the room at that point. "Sombra of the Emerald nobility in the Crystal Empire. And a pleasure to meet you." I spoke with nervousness hinted in my voice. And the displeasure of the other ponies snickering behind her. She gave a small giggle and to be perfectly honest I enjoyed it. Her eyes flittered over me, this was embarrassing. My coat never held the shimmer it once did, in fact it was dull like the rest of these commoners. My guess she had to be nobility as was I. In fact she was. "I am Princess Sapphire, daughter of King Ruby Sword. And for being of noble blood you certainly do not look as if you were. But it is quite lovely to meet you." > Hearts and Hooves Day > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Princess Sapphire... How do I describe her in one sentence? Ok I think I got it. Princess Sapphire has to be the most wonderful pony I have ever met: the one who wasn't cruel to me from the start, somepony that actually talked to me without judging me right off the start. Well her kindness was something to startle me. Hearts and Hooves day was approaching fast, I contemplated of asking her for hand that day. No no no not as marriage you twit! But maybe as a date you would call it. Courting if you will. I do enjoy her company... Oh shut up you're more annoying than that Twilight Sparkle, did you know that? No I guess not. Any way back to my story! We had become friends since our first encounter and have a great many conversations. One in particular I found very well spoken. She knew of me in the Empire, even back then yes. Both her and her father in fact, yes ever since my first well executed magical maneuver. They unbeknownst to yours truly, asked for me after I left for the Canterlot Palace. They even went to my parents. My parents had to be impressed if the King was knocking at their door! She told me they weren't... Matter of fact they told her I wasn't their child at all... Wow I couldn't begin to feel like bucking myself in the face. Well we talked for a good four hours, she kept apologizing to me, me trying to get off that subject... Jeez when this mare got talking she TALKED! And honestly I did not mind in the least. She told me of what life in the palace was like, being treated to nearly anything. Or when she was just a filly how she accidentally gotten lost in the garden for most of a day. Her distaste for history when she was younger, myself on the other hand was very versed in that subject. I told her of my hopes, some of which were kind of wacky. Well then the awkward moment came... I asked shyly if she would be my date for the Hearts and Hooves dance. Ok this is where I get a complete shock. Aww are your legs getting tired? Well fine have a break, I'll resume the story when you return. Well what were you doing hmm? Oh you have a lovely mare waiting for you... Well then umm tell me what is her name. Oh beautiful name. Truly is. Ok I'll finish soon. We went to the dance later that night and I must say I was the most dashing colt there, only outclassed by her. Sapphire's mane was expertly tamed and styled. Her dress was just as radiant as she was. My word, my jaw nearly slammed onto the floor. That is how I can describe this right now. Her gold trimmed eyes sparkled with such beauty I could hardly contain myself. She was too much to behold this moment in time. How was I so able to stand in her presence? She leaned over to me with her kind smile, as her date I pissed off many a colt. Hahaha that was so pleasing, but as I was saying. We danced for hours under the stars, stopping only to laugh and to drink. Oh we owned the night. Sitting at a far table we began to ask about each others dreams. Princess Sapphire quizzed me first, as expected, mares I swear haha. "To be a Captain in The Crystal Task Force! The royal elite of the Crystal Imperial Army! Captain Sombra, at your service ma'am." I honestly felt so stupid as I stood up trying to project myself as heroic as possible... And I slipped. Falling hard on the cold hard ground, messing my coat up more than I wanted... Sapphire giggled while watching me dust myself off. "My 'Captain Sombra' you seem just too excited about the position." Celestia why allow me to embarrass myself like this? Did I do anything to make you so angry in the short time we spoke when I was so young? Her eyes turned back to the sky, I was dusting myself off. My luck am I wrong? She turned back to me, those eyes always pierced me. Lowering her head, I swear she whispered something. I of course I leaned towards her, do you take me as a fool?! As I leaned forward I heard what she muttered, what I could make out was 'she would be honored if I was her royal guard captain'. My heart leapt in my very chest, if I could join the royal guard, I would feel my life would be complete! Oh fine tell that mare you'll be by soon, this section of my life is nearly over ok? For the love of Discord! Ok ok ok. Fine I'll finish now, impotent whelp. As I was just to start to prance around with great joy, she grabbed me and kissed me. To make the night more memorable we knew how much we meant to each other. Yes I know that was short. Well if you didn't keep walking away I could have explained this "love story" in greater detail. Oh blah you have no idea what I am telling you! This is the whole truth, not what your insignificant princesses have told you! Fine you leave, I grow weary of you pathetic sobbing anyway! Damn fool how dare he! I am King Sombra true lord of these lands! Yet I get the worst end of the stick by two impostors?! Oh I see YOU are still here, please excuse my outburst. Just needed to blow off some steam. No I'll continue my tale later. No I do not need any comfort thank you, just come back tomorrow. > Service to an Empire > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- With my last year of schooling complete I headed back to the Crystal Empire with The Princess. The journey was long and we had each others company so I guess it wasn't bad. Well it was very pleasant. We walked there to make the trip more exciting, also this was her idea to see if I was guard material. Well for the first three nights I was over protective of The Princess, until she gave me one nightmare of a scolding. I swear my ears were ringing at least for half the day... Well she apologized for yelling and I told her I was sorry for keeping her safe. Yes I was being sarcastic at the time. You would be too don't even lie to me. We still made our way to the Equestrian border. The Everfree forest was just ahead of us, oh joy. I being a unicorn of great magical skill and strength lead our way deep in the dead of night. We both knew of the dangers like manticores or bandits that stalked the roads. But Sapphire was confident in me, I would not let her down. Now I know you're thinking "why not just take the train? It takes you right to The Empire." Hey walking was her idea. Not mine. Well as you might expect she griped the whole time, I found this hilarious since it was her plan. Hours and hours passed until we reached a nice clearing, I took up the liberty of setting up camp. I kept watch over the surrounding area. I heard rustling in the bushes, so I went to investigate. A wild manticore pair leapt into our camp. One of the savages pinned me, I watched as the second one held Sapphire in its jaws. The flurry of the scene was a flash, and just as it started it was over. They bolted off with The Princess. No no no this wasn't happening. My guess their den would be where they would feast. Now the hard part, find that damn hole. For hours I walked, I didn't know I could have been walking for hours in one huge circle. Oh Celestia help me now! I can not return without The Princess in my company. I'm pretty sure if you were The King and no clue where your daughter was you would want some answers. Oh Luna find kindness and guide me! The thought of Sapphire being eaten wasn't helping me in anyway, shape, or form. Time passed away from me as I grew more desperate in my search, I would lose my closest friend and my future as a royal guard. Again I came to the clearing where camp was strewn about now. When I noticed the deep tracks that headed north. I felt like an idiot. Great... Follow the obvious foot prints. So I did I guess eight miles, maybe. I found a cave, of course a damn cave. How original. My luck is just so perfect. Ok I explored the cave's mouth, dark dank heavy. That's how I can describe it, just off the top of my head there was the roof of the cave. Many pointed rocks had cut me as I made my decent deeper. And I gotta say "This SUCKS!" What another potty break what is it with ponies and your tiny bladders? Fine go take your "wewe". Ugh simpletons I swear being of noble blood we were trained not to do the "Peepee" dance. Oh for Celestia's sake what is keeping you? I just love talking to myself, at least I don't have to urinate every twenty minutes. Oh welcome back did you at least wash your hooves? Good, now back to what I was saying. After I pretty much yelled, I think I let every if anything that lived in said cave know I was there. Not my most brilliant plan to date. As if on Que manticores descended upon. Two instantly recognizable from earlier, they didn't like I found their dwelling I guess. The third attacked from behind me, great ambush, (one for the books, not like it's been done before). As it rose to get me, I ducked down quickly. So when I heard the loud thump, I smiled. All three hit heads! Hahahahahaha animals like that are quick to fool. Also they do react just as fast, so now I'm facing three ticked off manticores, fun being the hero. I used my magic as both a light and as a shield. I began to backpedal further into the cave to continue my search. Reaching the central chamber I picked two of the manticores off the ground with the rest of my magical abilities. The third stood back frightened by the tides of our conflict. The strain was beginning to take its toll on my magical reserves. With what I had left I threw the pair of now squealing beasts down a pit, while the their last member of the pack turned and took flight of this squabble. I stumbled a bit taking in the cave, wow I did not expect one really low rock right behind me... When I awoke my head throbbed. Like someone hit me in the head with a rock. Oh wait no I ran into the damned thing. (Ok my fault). But I was in the clearing? I looked around trying to figure this mess out, till I heard a very familiar voice. "Hey just lay down you are in no condition to be about mister." > One good morning > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- One Good Morning  When I woke again I found Sapphire, making oatmeal? A Princess making a meal? For me this was mind blowing, as I drew near. Stumbling nearly into the cooking oat meal, would not be pretty in any way. Her smile was uplifting. I flopped down beside her not caring about my coat, mane, or tail. I knew I was filthy yet she was so clean. She held out her hoof, I placed mine in hers. Her gold trimmed eyes locked on my hoof, I know she was observing my wounds. I didn't think I had any, well with adrenaline pumping I didn't feel a thing. I must have taken a beating in that cave, when I looked down I saw a lot of cuts, scabs, and blood. So she tended to me when I was unconscious, oh boy I was left completely at her mercy... I just hope she didn't apply any makeup on my face. To my releif there wasn't any, also there was nasty bump on the left side of my face. Must have been where I hit that damn rock. She was smiling as I looked myself over, giggling too.    "Don't worry I didn't do anything to you other than heal you, besides it was the least I could do since you did save me after all. Before you ask I dragged you up until I found a spot where I could heave you onto my back and carry you to safety." Her eyes twinkled as I blushed. She healed me and was looking out for me, more than my parents did. I sat down slowly wondering what happened after I knocked myself out. Again she spoke. "Well you were out for maybe six hours, and yes you been in that spot the entire time."    I've been still for six hours? Six hours she was unprotected? Six hours she watched over me, how could I have been so stupid?  I felt my self esteem drop faster than my head as it hit the dirt. What if more beasts had taken that to their liking and attacked? Those didn't help the state of my mind.    "Don't worry we haven't been under any predator's gaze, I know this may seem like your ego is bruised but look on the bright side."    "What bright side? I was unconscious for SIX hours! What could've happened in that time I wouldn't be able to save you if that happened!" My worry and anger obviously weren't helping, though I must admit I felt like bucking myself in the face. She held out her left hoof. Not being one for feelings since my parents and school life never helped me, I just looked at it for a bit. She giggled at me. I do enjoy that. I took her hooves in mine and we sat quietly until sleep crept upon us.   The next morning we packed up. (I did the packing but in her mind WE did the packing, but thats not the point.) We set out on the road again, hopefully no manticores to run into. We talked a lot; she about how beautiful the Empire is, and I spoke of why we didn't use the train that was at the station.   "I wanted to enjoy the sights and the beauty of nature."    Me of course gave the comment of nearly being eaten by nature. She giggled more, then she said something I hadn't expected.   "I also wanted to evaluate you personally before the my father does."    Of course I didn't expect that! Wipe that smug look off your face like you knew where it was going!  > And so a break > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ok I know you must be bored to tears about my life story, so here's a something new. I was a little colt that had a crush on a beautiful mare who was about three years older than me while I lived in Ponyvile. Oh she was beautiful so kind... to her coltfriend. He was the best looking one in her class and the star hoofball player, Celestia's mercy I hated him. But one day he walked up to me while I was in the restroom, he proceeded to beat me just for the fact I had a crush on his girl. After thirty minutes of being hit and tossed around. I had enough of him, I let my anger out in one act of self defense. The sinks were torn from the wall and they flew at his shaking form. Hahahaha that was a great day can you just imagine it!? She never wanted to see me again... > One long walk > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Welcome back my little pony, boy does that line get old or what? Anyway back to what I was rambling on about. The princess and I spent three days walking so far, the Everfree forest was now a good ten to twenty miles behind us. My wounds were healed under Sapphire's care. We walked and she would share what life was like in the crystal palace, my what a wonderful sounding place. She told me of what the Crystal Task Force mainly did should I join it. I would think it over and over until I found my absolute. I reassured her to be her captain of the guard would be the greatest honor. She gave me an uneasy smile. We didn't talk that much that night. ... The border to Equeatria, finally in sight. It had be a little over a week since the princess and I left Ponyvile > The Crystal Kingdom > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- And so we arrive at the point of the story where life was better for me. We had made it to the kingdom roughly in two weeks of non stop walking. Thank Celestia we made it, Sapphire was giggling as I had passed her test. The feeling of relief swept over me as we strode pass the royal gates. Many nights I had dreamed of standing proudly next to the guards, the sense of belonging to something larger than myself was unfathomable and in my reach. The throne room was beautiful in all respects, but not like Sapphire. Ruby sword the king smiled as his daughter gracefully walked to her throne. I stood before them humbled and delighted. "Sombra you have protected my daughter's life without question and for that I thank you with more respect and honor than I would give myself for protecting this kingdom." His words flowed like a river of divine grace. "So if there is anything I can do please do not hesitate to ask of me my dear boy!" My heart leaped inside my chest, the king thanking me?! This was a great honor of itself. What did I do? I worked my courage up to ask him for my dream. "Sir I wish to be apart of the Royal Crystal Task Force to serve and protect my king and my princess!" I nearly made the whole room shake with my voice. I could tell by his face he must have been thinking it over. Less than five minutes passed when his answer came. Yes. I was beyond joy and my happiness was unbound. "Tomorrow you will start your training, but for now get some well deserved rest my boy you have earned it." Ruby sword exclaimed. The princess and I both had the largest smiles anyone could've possible have seen. Sapphire lead me to my room for the night, the room was just amazing beyond anything like the Royal Sisters' palace. The bed was made with the finest silk sheets and most beautiful pattern. The room had great windows on two of its walls, from which the entire kingdom it seemed like could be seen. This had to be heaven because the next day surely felt like hell... ... Training with the toughest fighters was nearly suicide but I made it Hahaha still not dead! We trained the first half of the day on physical build up: push ups, pull ups, and running seven miles. The push ups I astounded my superiors with one hundred seventy eight of them. A stallion got the better of me in the pull ups exceeding me with forty three, and I had thirty six. The seven miles run I completed in twenty two minutes exact. Then came the real training. Against another, of course I was paired with the captain of the guard. This wasn't the first beating I took but I made sure it was my last. We had started off with a few punches and kicks, he landed most of his. My hits struck hard and fast I copied some of his moves but I mixed them as so he wouldn't guess what I was really doing. As the duel dragged on we could feel each other slowing and growing tired. As we struggled to keep going the others of the recruits and guards formed around us cheering on who'd they thought would win. His hits grew softer with each of his breaths, but I continued on. I drew upon my past fights and used the anger that was locked inside to deliver deadly blows. What I hadn't expected was King Ruby sword was watching me, and he saw the fight turn in my favor he watched closer. Until I had "blacked out". He gave the order to pull me off his captain of the guard, which I guess wasn't easy. But we both were taken to the small guard post hospital. Both the captain and I had suffered quite a bit of damage. He had the worst of it, with three broken ribs and one hell of a broken nose. I had a shattered bone in my fore leg and a few cuts here and there, nothing too serious. I had guessed after what I did the king would be glad to be rid of me. Again to my surprise he welcomed me with open arms. > Unbound and in love<3 > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Am I the only unicorn stallion to truly know so much pain? I know everypony feels a pain that is unbearable to deal with, but they have a family or friends to turn too. I had Princess Sapphire alone to confide in. I was truly greatful to know her. Oh where did I last leave off of? Ah I remember now how I was pulled off of the captain of the guard. Hahaha that would be five years from where I'm starting now, why? Because I'm telling the damn story that's why! Don't like it then go talk to your marefriend over there... she does remind of my Sapphire... no I'm not crying I just got some snow in my eyes! Please just go and give me a few minutes please... The years after my brawl with the so proud captain, I earned my spot as the new captain of the Crystal Task Force. I felt alive , and I felt a new lease on life. Sapphire and I spent less time together... I wish it wasn't like this. My duty was interfering with my time with her. Unfortunately for my soldiers I kept inspections up with a healthy dose of exercise if any of them failed. How many times was I out there, drilling my troops? Well most of the time I would glance up and see her, just watching me. Dear sweet Sapphire, you are an beautiful light in such a dab world. I just wish I had some time off. Well you that saying don't you? If you really wish for something it will come to you. Or is it something else? A thousand years really isn't good for a memory when you've been a shadow. Well yes I remember where I was. I wished for some time with the princess. She had requested me to the dinning hall, I swear I felt my heart leap inside my chest. I ran through the palace as fast. So many times I had done this. Just running my way in the palace. Until the dinning hall doors stopped me dead. I tried to compose myself as best as I could, that's when the door smashed in my face. Terrific. Whoever opened the damnable door was going to deal with me. "What's the big idea about that?!" I nearly screamed with tears clouding my vision. A giggle that's what caught me off guard. Sapphire oh she was going to get it Hahaha. I hurled myself at her, causing us both to fall onto the floor laughing. She still had the most beautiful voice. We stayed there for I guess ten minutes, before her father called for me. Uh oh. Walking with as much pride as I could, I made it to the throne. "Sapphire please allow Sombra and I to have a few minutes to speak my dear child." The king said. "Father don't be to hard on him it was all in good fun please?" She still giggled about what just happened. The king merely nodded. Once Sapphire had left the room I noticed the vibe pulled a 180. He glared at me for what seemed like hours, before he broke into the biggest smile I've ever seen from him. And of course he broke the silence. "I've seen how you two act, it warms my heart to know my daughter smiles when around you. So Sombra I offer my approval. You and my daughter are meant for each other, please take care of her." When he finished speaking my heart was pounding against my chest, it must have been loud because the king again laughed. Once he dismissed me I swear I flew. Down the halls and rooms, looking for my beloved. Once I found her I tackled her with a powerful embrace. She gasped then was cut off by my kiss, which she returned with equal passion. For an hour we stayed like that. Nopony bothered us as we were locked with each other. Sapphire then caught me by surprise, by whispering we will anouce this to the entire kingdom. ..... "My dear subjects it is with great honor and pride to anouce my Coltfriend Sir Sombra of the Crystal Task Force. And the king to say a few words, father." Sapphire said with grace. Then the king's turn to speak caught me by surprise again. (I know how many times in a day could I be surprised). "Well I am old and all my life I've watched my lovely daughter grow into the beautiful mare she is today. And Sombra when I first heard of you I knew you had many great things in your future. So I would like to say, Sombra I name you heir of the throne and this glorious kingdom and I offer you my blessing for marriage." All this to take in my mind spun at breakneck speeds so much so I collasped. The darkness closed in on my vision. > To war! > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Well I covered the happy part yesterday so let me think... oh yes war. Well tell me a little about yourself. Hmmm, uh huh. Expect a foal soon? Well congrats to you. Oh I see. Wait you're getting married?! Well then this calls for a celebration! Oh that's right, I can't. Anyway back to the truth, after all you can tell your children the "Tell of King Sombra". Hahaha okay okay I'll continue on one condition. Please don't let the truth turn to dust with me... spread the word of my story. I can't say I'm glad to tell it, but it will hopefully give me peace... Weeks after I left off, the princess and I were soon to be wed. I loved her, she loved me. And we were expecting a child! My life finally was worth living. But fate must have truly hated me, because the Griffons declared war on all ponies. A mass genocide if you will. They took at least five villages, killing every stallion, mare, filly and colt. We reacted, pushing their forces back to the mountains. The royal sisters tried to stop the blood shed with diplomatic talks, while we faced slaughter each day! I was at the front lines everyday boasting the moral, fighting with my soldiers! I would die fighting to protect my Sapphire, and our child. Days turned to weeks, weeks turned to months, and months turned to years. The diplomatic talks still took place. We were tired of all this death and bloodshed. We wanted to go home and see our wives and children, but the griffons wouldn't let up. Finally having enough of this I lead a strike team to kill the griffon generals, with hope of ending this war. Once my team and I were ready we set off. Unknown to us the war was over. We left before the news reached us, those damned sisters made a treaty with the beaked bastards. My team trecked through the frozen tundra, around the main roads. Unfortunately we were caught in a blizzard, I was lost from my soldiers and they took the wrong path I guess. Never to be heard from again. I slipped and hit my head on something hard. Then darkness over came me once again. So much bloodshed over what? How different we were from them? Or beliefs? What started this war I can't say. But it was after the war I truly did die. Okay that's enough for the war... give me a few minutes please... I lost so many friends and soldiers! Ponies that depended on me... I let them down. So many screams so much blood... Yes I am crying. Look at your marefriend, imagine never coming back to her. Or she hears of of your death in combat. Can you imagine what she'd feel? Not anything happy. She'd be depressed. I was when I watched my men die. I couldn't bear to tell their wives and children daddy isn't coming home. But where was I? Yes the darkness. While I was out I didn't know how long that was but my head was filled with war. It was a horrible scene to see over and over, seeing what I could have done to save them. So many times I've watched these horrors being played. When I finally came to. I was in a hospital in the Crystal Empire. Home! Sitting up wasn't the best idea. I lurched forward in pain. So I was kinda stuck. But that wasn't so bad I was home. Well a short time after I awoke, the pompous sisters decided to see me. After all that, they wanted to see if I was doing alright. Well for about fifteen minutes I did fine. They expressed worry about me since I was at the front throughout the war. I told them about the nightmares I had, which would stay with me forever. They again said I need rest. But I would have none of that. I wanted to see my princess. They both shared a look of worry when I expressed I wished to see my wife to be. When I asked about it they responded. "If we take you to see you must not say a word." My mind raced trying to figure what they had just said to me. I only nodded in agreement. We were teleported by Celestia's magic to what I found most horrifying. Sapphire and a other stallion kissing while a young filly played. My daughter. My loving mare. What happened?! Then the filly turned to the stallion, her eyes full of love, said what could have possibly killed me right then and there. "I love you daddy!" She squeaked. My daughter told this unknown stallion she loved him. Tears raced down my face. I could barely make out what she looked like... she was an alicorn, a soft pink coat, three toned hair. Sadness filled my heart to watch this. Then I heard her name. "I love you too Cadence." My heart sank even lower. That's the name Sapphire and I were going to use if it was a filly. But there was my daughter hugging this other stallion, I couldn't bear to look anymore. I guess the princesses shared my discomfort because we left. And as we did I muttered, "Daddy loves you too Cadence". > What doesn't kill you... > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- That night I rested in Canterlot, if you can even call it rest. My heart filled with sadness, how long was I out? My little girl wouldn't even know me... I was alone. I was powerless to do anything at this point in my life. The hell of war forever stained into my mind, my daughter calling that other stallion daddy.... talk about tear jerking. I just laid in the bed made for two wallowing in sorrow. Celesta and Luna would check on me every now and then, and each time they'd find me looking over the balcony. My back turned to them so they wouldn't see the tears falling. About a month later I walked outside of the castle, just walking without reason. The princesses didn't know I was up and about, they had there courts to attend to. One night I sat alone in the garden, enjoying the peaceful silence. Or I was until Celestia snuck up from behind me. Instead of trying to scare me she laid a wing over me, comforting me. I can only assume what she wanted to ask me. But we just sat there for an hour. My eyes closed still fighting tears, head facing the ground. "Sombra. Please talk to me. I'm here to help." I felt the warmth radiating from her. I looked up to see a loving smile. Only to jerk away from her. "I want my daughter. To hold her and tell her I LOVE HER. Keep her safe. But she won't know I'm her real father. But I can't take her away from her mother, even if she didn't wait for my return". "Sombra that's very thoughtful, you would've made a great father". Those words stung I would have? No I should be! So I snapped back at her. "Would have? Would have? No oh no, I should be there now! Not here with you". As I said this I saw Celeatia shrink back as though I spit at her. Maybe I did I can't remember every detail. Seeing her cringe as I spoke was fun, but wrong. "Celestia, I'm sorry. Just make me one promise please". "Yes Sombra?" "Just watch over my daughter, keep her safe?" "Yes Sombra I will". When she said that I left her presence. I returned to my room, instead of sleep I chose to practice my magic again. Through the night I endlessly kept up my magic practice. Until I remembered the war and that stallion. It filled me with anger and hatred. Things I had long forgot, but this time was different. My magic turned blackish purple, and as the morning sun rose I felt, I felt free! The door to my room opened and there in the doorway was Luna. I didn't have time for another heart to heart, I had magic to hone. But she walked to me, covering me with her wings as she embraced me. I felt her crying. Why was she crying? Wait I didn't care. I wanted to make myself more powerful. But she wouldn't let go of me. This was getting me no where fast. So I pulled away from her, staring at her. She wept even more? For the love my flank. So I finally asked her what was eating at her. What she said caught me by surprise. "Sombra I want you to know from the moment you became a stallion I felt like I needed you. I know this sounds crazy but Sombra I think I love you". My anger intensified, all the will I had gone. Purple mist began to flow from my eyes, the whites of my eyes turned green while my iris turned red. What I didn't know at the time was I just invented dark magic. Dark magic fueled by my rage and sadness made me strong, stronger than I was before! Oh the power! But this mare in front of me was a mockery of my strength. I could feel her fear? This was incredible I can feel emotions that cause negative things. Yes this was something new and great! I eased my way up to her, putting on the most seductive smile I could possibly muster I spoke with her. "My dear sweet Luna, I have as well. Even though Sapphire held my lust, you have my heart". Oh she took the bait with hook, line and sinker. Too easy. She sat on my bed, blushing and giggling like a filly about to have a party. I sat next to her my eyes locked with hers. We shared a kiss of passion. What she didn't know was I planted seeds of evil into her mind. How open her mind was it wasn't hard. As we "made love" I would whisper that her sister hogs the glory, leaving her in the dark. She bought every word. Stupid simple mare. Hahahahahahaha fools. As she left to raise the moon I slipped away from the castle. Traveling north. Traveling back home. > Just pisses me off > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Time skip! Hahaha after weeks of traveling back to the Crystal Empire, I made it back This would be fun. I noticed that the king was still alive, just how old was he? You know what didn't matter I was going to pay him a litlle visit too. Hahahaha the fun I was going to have! I slammed the doors open to the effect every guard shook and other gasped as I proudly waltzed in. Wearing my armour and still alive must have been a sight to see. They didn't know what to expect hahahahaha. Anyway I was expected to be dead or just brain dead. What fools. They didn't even stop me from making my way to see the king. Once I was at his door I opened them slowly, for dramatic effect. The old fool of a king smiled when he saw me, he had no idea I was going to kill him. He beckoned me to his side. Coughing and sometimes heaving into a bucket, I felt nothing but pity at the once proud ruler. I made my way to his bedside slowly. I wondered if he'd die before I got to him. No he didn't. "Sombra my boy, look at you. Full health, still in great shape". He coughed even more, to just prevent the end. "I'm sorry that Sapphire moved on. But it was for the best". Again my anger rose sharply, the mist billowing out of my eyes. I could only look at him with disgust. "For the best? I will never be able to see my daughter, and its for the best? Do you take me for a fool?" He cringed as I spat those words at him. "I can never hold my daughter or my Sapphire and its for the best? No it isn't." He just stared at me, shaking with fright. "I'm sorry that this happened to you..." "Shut your mouth old delirous fool! I want what is mine. And you're the one thing in my way. I'll say this once, where is my Cadence?" He wouldn't tell me where she was. I counted on that. I used my new found abilities with vigor. He asked what I used on him, to which I responded with "Dark magic". He couldn't possibly know what it was so I gave him a little show. I called a guard in. The moment he stepped in his legs broke, his fat face suffered cuts and bruises, and as an added bonus I made him face his worst nightmare. Hahahahaha the sweet suffering. The king watched as this guard died a slow and very painful death. I turned back to the king, his eyes were wide with terror. I chuckled. "Where is she?" Well long story short I killed him by throwing from his balcony. He landed with a nice splat on the palace steps. When I looked out side I saw Sapphire! Her and the stallion, with my little filly. I leapt off the balcony, using my magic to land safely. Sapphire saw me. Terror flashed across her face. She knew I had strong magical abilities, and this must have shown her I was even stronger. She told that stallion something because he put Cadence on his back and ran. I held my attention on Sapphire. She was now the one thing in my way. Little did I know Cadence was taken to Celestia and the stallion would be pleading for her help. That would bite me in the flank years after that day. But nothing would deter me from this, not even a night with Celestia. That's how dead set I was on making Sapphire pay for her sin. I made beg for death after I was finished. But I remembered her father promised me the throne. Just before night overtook the city I made a very public speech. "Its been a long time since you have seen me moving about, but as your new king I promise there will be many great changes! As I King Sombra lead this empire into the future, we will be a example to the rest of Equestria!" Many cheered for me while others hissed many curses on my name. They would be dealt with in due time. But I needed rest, after all what would a king be without some well earned rest. > My Darkness is ever lasting > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Hello, well I'm nearly finished with my tale. This has brought back so many memories. Both happy and horrible. But before I finish my story I must ask some questions. How does a father that has done so many cruel things ever face his child? How does one redeem the unredeemable? What would happen should Cadence known I am her father? How can I repay for everything I have done? Needless to say I ruled with an iron hoof. So many were broken. So many pleas to stop the punishments. I truly deserve to burn in hell... It was thirty-two years into my rule, I think... I locked my age. I had basically unlocked the secret of immortality, I saw it as the final piece to ascending into godhood. I know now it was a mistake. I had already lost. How you ask? Simple, I became a monster. I lost my sanity. You know what happens next. The royal sisters banished me to the ice where I stay'd for a thousand years. My daughter was married to a unicorn stallion, who was a brother to Twilight Sparkle. I guess that makes me her uncle. I pray that whatever fate awaits me allows me to right my wrongs. Celestia if you can hear me allow me to see my daughter as I was before I became this... this monster. Please I beg of you. Show me that kindness once. Please. I want her to know I wasn't always a monster... Yes I am crying I may never see my baby again. Listen to me treasure your loved ones, don't let them forget how much you love them... I let hate rule most my life and well look at me slowly fading into nothing... my hopes and dreams shattered and lost. Please tell the world of my story so I'm not veiwed just as a monster or a beast. I know my time is short so please while I'm still here tell a group of fillies and colts so I may listen. Thank you. You possibly told it better than I did. And how you weaved it, oh it was like poetry. But the day is ending, you have a mare to see. > Epilogue > -------------------------------------------------------------------------- Sombra sat alone in the shadows waiting for the end to finally take him. His story was finally told and at least it would give him some peace. Hoof steps could be heard approaching, Sombra could only guess who was coming. Maybe it was Twilight Sparkle or Celestai, either one would just push the poor king into his grave that much faster. Sombra sat awaiting this new visitor quietly hoping they wouldn't notice him. "Daddy?" What in the name of Luna's flank did he just hear? Somepony called him daddy? Maybe his mind was playing tricks on him. "Daddy? I heard you were here?" There that voice was again, but it was closer. Now he knew he wasn't hearing things somepony was really coming. Sombra turned to face who was soon to be here. To his great surprise it was his daughter, Cadence. The moment she saw him her stance shifted into a battle position. Last she saw Sombra he was nothing more than a literal shadow of himself, but here he was sitting. She prepared a spell to get rid of him. As she did she noticed Sombra's head was cast downward, tears ran down his cheeks. "I am sorry, Cadence please forgive me. Please take pity on a father who's done so much wrong." "And who's father are you?" "Yours." Cadence stared at him in disbelief at the broken stallion before her. His tears still pouring from his eyes. Cadence couldn't help but feel sorry for him. "My daughter I've done so much wrong I have no way to repent for what I've done, I have always wondered what I would say to you should I ever have the chance." "How can I be sure you really are my father?" Suspicion was heard in her voice. "Celestia knows the truth, I asked her to take care of you. But you look so much like your mother, did you know that?" Sombra said softly. Stepping closer to Cadence he did the one thing she never expected. He pulled her into a hug and cried on her shoulder. Cadence was taken aback by this. The once gruesome tyrant balling his eyes out on her shoulder. His sob were loud enough to hide the sound of Celestia making her way to them. "What he tells you is true, he is your father. And he loves you Cadence. More than power. His love for you is the only thing keeping him here. He is telling the truth. Please give him this one moment maybe then he can rest finally."