> New to Ponyville; A Young Colt's Adventure
>  by AxtontheMechanist
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

> Moving in to town
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 1; Moving in to town.
The Sun shined down on Equestria as another new day came to a brightening new dawn. Rubbing his sleepy eyes with his fore-hooves, Axton woke up to the new day to the sound of his mother working downstairs, within the kitchen of their house, to what sounded like cooking. Axton was your everyday young colt, although he hadn't quite acquired his Cutie Mark yet ; which saddened him a lot as he always felt left out of modern society wherever he went. He constantly had to hide, or deal with bullies, and although he wasn't the brightest colour in the crayon box, he had a certain intuition, his dad called it a ‘keen mind’ that was passed on down through the family. His coat was a Khaki colour, like that of the desert camouflage and his mane was more of a dirt-coloured brown ,and was very messy due to him just waking up tired and on the wrong side of bed; but nonetheless fit in with his coat.   The smell of morning pancakes drifted into his nostrils, making him think (rather bizarrely) of chocolate sauce, slowly lifting him from his fairly sized ,but nonetheless small, bed, his nostrils flaring as he caught onto the scent of sugar, lemon and pancake mix. Recently, about a day or two ago, he and his family of four had moved into PonyVille, a place full of life that had many happy faces to welcome him into town, along with his father, Axel Wrench, his brother, Eagle Eyes, and his Mother, Bright Mane. He remembered the night before when he had just moved in along with his family, when a bright pink pony had burst in, demanding a welcoming party, which included cupcakes, music and bright decor along with an (apparently) humongous towering cake... How could his family say no?


(xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx)


The sun was mid-way through its course over Equestria and the family had just settled in to the house and decided to relax. However, Axton had different ideas as to what he wanted to do, as he had finished packing his room up AND made it tidy, which was mainly due to his mother’s incessant moaning and nagging. He wanted, over anything, to go to Sugar Cube Corner. Since moving from Oatsralia, he’d heard everything of it from his pen pal Iris Sapphire, who had been through Ponyville while on vacation, who said the cup-cakes were tantalizingly sweet and that they tickled your taste buds like a morning flower. His mother bade him well before checking he had a drink and a small map in his saddlebag; she nagged more than he could even begin to comprehend, and  Moving onward, he eventually found his way and was off to where Sugar Cube Corner was when, with the help of directions from a few of the locals. He had almost made it when-

“Hey there! Who’re you?” A voice questioned loudly behind his back, making him jump off his hooves a few feet into the air.
Startled, to say the least, he turned around to see a blindingly pink pony facing him with bright blue eyes and crazy hair, which gathered together would probably dwarf the size of his own body, staring at him with a inquisitorial  look on her face.
“Uh... me?” He stammered, whisking his head around, looking if the weird looking pony was speaking to anypony else. “M-My name’s Axton Coglink, you?” finally, facing this pony that seemingly came out of nowhere. How can a anypony be so sneaky? He thought to himself.
The Pink Pony came weirdly close, casting a searching eye upon him as she looked him up and down and said “Your’e not from around here are you?”
“Uh no, but-“
“GREAT! That means we can give you a WELCOMING PARTY! My name’s Pinkie Pie, by the way!” The pink pony was bouncing up and down now ecstatic right to her very core. All of a sudden, she stopped bouncing up and down, and stood, wide eyes staring at him expectantly. Axton, being only a young colt answered accordingly with a lopsided smile;
“Ok... Good to meet you? But about that party I guess you’ll kinda have to take it up with my mum. She lives near this giant tree down the street, you can’t miss it.” He seemed perplexed by this pony, as well as the fact of coming from nowhere, she also seemed to be extremely hyper and was showing so by constantly bouncing around him in  circles, which, as well as making him slightly dizzy, was a bit irritating.
After hearing his answer, she stopped mid-bounce in front of him and stopped to grin at him wildly. “GREAT! I gotta party to plan and friends to make and people to meet! Weheee!” She zoomed off in the direction of what was the giant tree like a giant tree near his house without further warning, leaving a dust cloud which looked uncannily like the shape of her in her wake.
“Well”, he thought to himself “that was... random.”
Warily, he looked around him, making sure that any more random ponies didn't pop out of nowhere at him and went into Sugar Cube Corner to get one of those cupcakes. 

(xxxxxxxx)



> The Three Fillies and The Colt
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 2; The three fillies
Axton, finally getting home after eating one of those cupcakes ,and spending a bit or two out of his saddle-money buying it, he entered the house to find Pinkie Pie speaking rapidly to his parents about a party, before rushing past him with a quick “Hey, Axton!” and a giant grin plastered all over her face. His parents, however happy they were to receive such a greeting, were bewildered nonetheless at the pink pony’s surprise appearance and gave Axton a questioning look before he innocently replied with “What, her? Oh yeah, we might wanna get ready, she looks the type who takes her partying seriously.”

Unimpressed, his parents replied in unison 

“You don’t say.”

However, it was his mother who spoke up first “Anyway, Axton, you better go and get ready for this party, it’s not like we have a choice in the matter is it?” His father chuckled at this. “Oh be quiet, honey, maybe the he’ll make some friends there!”
Axton’s mother looked from Axel, to Axton, and then to Eagle Eyes for support, who just shrugged and chuckled a little. Sighing in defeat, she went upstairs with Axel to see if they would wear anything; when coming to clothes, everything had to be just so with his mum. 

He went upstairs to his room and had a look around to see if there was anything he would wear. Looking through everything, he decided that no, there wasn't anything that he would wear to a normal party as all he had was a tux ;from his grandmare, telling him in the card it would make him look ‘dashing’. Gift’s from old people never went down as a good impression for starters; just thinking about wearing that tuxedo made him shudder; but something caught his eye. It was the pair of mecha goggles that Iris had sent in her previous letter. It had read;

Dear Axton,
Moving to Ponyville, and so soon! It all sounds very interesting, but me and my dad, Emerald Sight are living in Manehatten for another year or so, but he said that he wants to move to Ponyville sometime soon, so maybe in the future you and I will finally be able to meet, and for the first time at that. Anyway, I found these in the shops and from the drawing you sent me, I thought this would be your kind of thing as you like to tinker around with those little inventions of yours! I also like that little mechanical bird you sent me, although how you had gotten it to work perplexes me very much. The goggles will be in the package that comes with this letter, but these are no ordinary goggles as they have Sapphire-glass lenses which are enchanted (by yours truly) to help you focus on even the tiniest details. They should fix around your head or you can tie them loosely around your neck. Manehatten has been pretty boring lately, as, like you, I have not many friends and life quickly becomes boring in the city. Although, I hope to gain my cutie mark soon as I have gotten a talent at the use of gems and magically enchanting them. I look forward to your reply, Axton, and sit hopeful up in the bustling heights of Manehatten.
Wishing you all the best,
Iris Sapphire.

Looking up from the paper, he tied the goggles loosely around his neck and nodding to the rest of his family, walked out of the house and down to the town hall where, Axton guessed, was where the rest of the people coming to welcome his family to Ponyville. But honestly? He was nervous as, being a blank flank he thought that the chances of getting picked on were high, and that a few of the more ponies his age would laugh at him for not gaining his Cutie Mark yet. Shaking his head and directing his thinking away from that thought, and swallowing back his fear of bullies, he stepped through the door along with his family.

To be greeted by a mass of Confetti, and a brightly lit room with a giant cannon, handled by that Pink Pony, Pinkie Pie. Before he, or any of his family could utter a word, all of the crowd that had gathered in the town hall burst into a cheer and Pinkie, being bizarre as she was, fired off her cannon which released even MORE confetti, streamers, a table ;somehow having drinks on it already, and- wait, how did three waiters pop out of that thing? Bewildered he looked around the room at the sea of unfamiliar faces that surrounded him and his family, all with smiles on their faces and their eyes wide and expectant.
At this moment, his family were grinning ear to ear and Pinkie Pie chose this moment to shout “Let’s get this party underway! Welcome to PONYVILLE!”.

Another cheer resounded in the hall as the rest of his family went out to converse with the other house guests, who chatted happily away. Even Eagle Eyes had even managed to chat up a mare of his age, who was blushing a deep scarlet colour.

However, Axton seemed to notice a small group approaching him, a group of three to be exact. Within this group, there was a white unicorn (with a pink and violet mane), a pale yellow earth pony ,who had a rose red mane, and an orange Pegasus, who seemed to have a purple mane, which seemed very bizarre to Axton, and a set of small, but nonetheless flight worthy wings. All of them, luckily, were his age.

The pale yellow earth pony decided to make the first introduction on behalf of her friends. Piping up, she introduced them along with herself “Hey there! Ah’m Apple Bloom!” She said introducing herself “This is Sweetie Belle,” Indicating towards her unicorn friend on her left, and then nudging her Pegasus friend on her left she said, “and this is Scootaloo!” Welcome t’ Ponyville!” At this moment, her two friends gave encouraging smiles and then Scootaloo  spoke up and said “We didn’t catch your name though, so why don’t ya tell us?”

Taken aback by the sudden invitation to friendship; that which he had never really experienced much before, Axton replied with a smile “Well.. My name’s Axton Coglink, and me and m’ family have just moved here from Austallia. ‘S good to meet you, although moving in here was a bit daunting as this place is full of so many people. But it’s good to see at least a few new friendly faces.”

Sweetie Belle decided to speak and said with a small giggle “Is that why you have that kookie accent?” At this, all of her friends burst in a fit of giggles as Sweetie Belle imitated his accent. Rolling his eyes, he laughed along with them at the small joke. It felt good to have a few friends. Unfortunately, the laughter was cut short when a duo of other mares came up.

“Well well well! If it isn't the three blank flanks and Apple Bloom’s coltfriend!” A grey young mare said while her friend simply sneered at the three. This made the three young mares cower at these aggressive insults. The grey mare’s magenta friend ,who had a diamond tiara perched upon her head looking her look the spoilt and snooty type, remarked “why are you hanging out with these LOSERS! I’m Diamond Tiara, and this is Silver Spoon, and if you think you’re cool, you should hang with us and not these dweebs!” Her scathing remarks cut through the air like a knife, and also infuriated Axton, making his eyes turn from their usually khaki colour to a dark grey steel. Axton’s voice came out like a steely hiss “For your information, you stuck up no-good bullies, MY name is Axton Coglink, and I will NOT let you pick on my NEW FRIENDS!” With a glare, his horn glowed a silver colour and an aura burst from it, hitting the floor and turning the area surrounding the two bullies it to polished steel, leaving the two bullies slip-sliding around on it as though it were ice. After about 3 minutes, the two finally got a hoof-hold in the floor and stormed out of the hall in embarrassment.

All of the three, Apple Bloom especially, looked amazed by this sudden defending against the bullies and rushed to Axton with grins that threatened to split their cute faces. With a small squeal, Sweetie Belle exclaimed “That was Amazing! How..?” While the other two just looked at him with awe-struck expressions.
“I... don’t know.” Axton said, bemused “All that I know is that those bullies got their due.” A lopsided smile spread across his face.


After leaving the party (when it was finished), he thought to himself “I have friends”. He headed home with a good feeling for the future, and a light heart.

> A Duo Of Threats
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------


Chapter 3; A Duo of Threats


The sun shined down on the land of Equestria as a new day began its course, shining along the congregation of houses that made up Ponyville. Curtains were being opened as mares, colts and fillies awoke to the morning sun that was the outside and the sun shone down, giving everything a glowing hue of colours from illustrious whites to fiery reds and forest greens. The sun lit up all of the colours that were the primary colours of the houses. 
“Axton! Wake up; it’s time for your first day at your new school!” Bright Mane, Axton’s mother called from downstairs in the living room.

“mmphmph...” Axton murmured, his face buried in his pillow. He didn’t mind waking up in the morning, it was just that his bed was so COMFY! Pulling himself out of his bed and on his hooves he made his way to the shower, only for his brother to push past him muttering “yeah, you can use it now”. Like him, his brother hated getting up in the mornings. However, while Axton actually got out of the bed, Eagle Eyes usually stayed in it for another 20 minutes, which constantly made him a groggy and grumpy morning person after being woken up. After having his shower, he towelled himself off by using magic. Thinking to himself, he thought "Telekinesis with magic isn't actually that hard. Huh." and promptly went out of the bathroom to get ready for his first day at Ponyville schoolhouse. 


(xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx)


Arriving at the schoolhouse, he made sure he had everything he needed. Textbooks? Check. Exercise Books? Check. Stationary? Check. Last but not least, he made sure his mech-goggles; he had christened them this after the party, were secured around his neck before walking up to the schoolhouse with a last nervous glance behind him; he stepped into the brightly coloured school building.

A mare ,who Axton guessed was the teacher, welcomed him into the classroom. She had a moderate cerise coat, and gave him a small smile as he entered the classroom. “My name is Cheerilee, and I’m the teacher here at the Ponyville schoolhouse. Everyone, welcome Axton as he’s new here. Oh, and Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, see me after class, please”

Axton chose to sit nearby Apple Bloom who gave him a big grin as she nodded towards Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara, making Axton remember the night before. Axton simply gave a rueful smile and a shake of his head and turned to face the front. However, before he could focus on getting on with the set work on that was about to be given, a piece of paper hit him on the back of the head. Picking it up from the floor, he opened the crumpled piece of paper and looked at it, un-amused. It read;

‘When we get to you, you’re dead pony-meat!’
Un-sincerely,
Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon.

Underneath, there was a scribbling of skull and crossbones.
Laughing quietly to himself, he simply scrunched up the paper and threw it into the bin on the other side of the room, while the duo who had sent him the letter gave him glares that could melt an iron bar.

“Alright, Class, Let's quiet down please, we have a very important lesson to get to, thank you..."


(xxxxxxxxxxxx)


Walking out of the classroom, Axton stepped outside, glad to be out in the fresh air again. Catching up with him, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle came walking beside him.

With a questioning glance, Apple Bloom piped up and asked “Axton, why ain't you scared of them two?” Both Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo gave him the same questioning glance, inclining that Axton answered her question.

“Well..” Axton began “Throughout my years of being in Oatsralia, I learnt that I no longer need to be scared of bullies and other meanies, as all they are, one and the same; jealous, cowardly people who have nothing better to do than pick on the defenceless, which I hate. Also, the only reason the bullies pick on blank flanks like us is because we’re special, and we have all the time in the world to find out our special talent and to acquire our Cutie Marks. They’re jealous of our freedom, and that makes them the bullies they are today.”

“I’m glad you’re our friend, Axton.” Replied Scootaloo “Although I think we’ll call you Ax, just to shorten your name”
“It IS a bit of a mouthful” Sweetie Belle commented, as they laughed on the way home from the school. Axton’s first day had gone perfectly; he’d fended off bullies, and managed not to be intimidated by them. But most of all, he’d learnt not to be sad about being a blank flank, and had learnt an important lesson;

‘Be yourself, for that is who you are.’ 
 








> Bigger Problems
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter four; Bigger problems


After another few days of going to school (which wasn't that bad, Axton thought to himself) he found the weekend was upon him, and thus decided to go and explore Ponyville. He met many-a-pony while in town, that of which consisted of a purple mare going by the name of Twilight Sparkle (a mare whose knowledge far extended beyond any he had ever known, surprising him by spending almost ten minutes speaking about the origins of Ponyville), a buttercup yellow mare named Fluttershy (who to Axton seemed just a little quiet) who happened to be shopping for animal food and lettuce (she said the lettuce was to her ‘little angel bunny'); he also met many other mares and colts who weren't worried about spending their time talking about what they did, a lot of which didn't actually interest him, but nonetheless it was nice to have someone to talk to.

However, as he was walking along, another sight caught his eye. Three Pegasi were walking through town, yelling ungodly terms like ‘grounder’ and ‘weak earth ponies’ to those who were passing by in the market, receiving dirty looks that were full of contempt.

Before he knew it, the three Pegasi had turned their eyes onto him, and seeing that he wasn't a Pegasus, they deemed it okay to pick on him, surrounding him in a circle of muscle and stinking body odour.

“Well if it isn’t the new kid in town!” Snorted one of the three, who Axton would later find out was the one known as Hoops.
“Little Pipsqueak of a Unicorn isn’t he?” Chuckled the one known as Score.

“Reckon we should teach him a lesson?” Grunted Dumb-bell, muscles rippling.

Infuriated by this effort to intimidate him, but not letting it show, Axton simply uttered “Oh please, I could take any one of you on! One of you dumb Pegasi versus me, the apparently little pipsqueak unicorn. What d’you say?”

Apparently the three Pegasi thought this to be hilarious, but one of them seemed to rise to the bait, snorting in anger (Dumb-bell it seemed, that one had more muscle than brain). Confidence had left Axton as soon as it had came into him flowing out of him like water down a drain; he expected any moment to get a beating and soon enough, Dumb-bell had flew towards him, hooves outstretched, readying a punch and-


The beating never came. He looked up to see both Score and Hoops looking at him in terror while Dumb-bell was unconscious on the floor, moaning slightly. Looking down at himself he found himself to be coated in an armoured layer of... Steel, that of which made his skin feel hardened and protected under this unbreakable layer.

Looking again back to Hoops and Score, he decided to scare them off by running full speed at them. Scattering around him and picking up their friend, Hoops and Score flew unsteadily off and back to Cloudsdale, scared out of their wits.
Back on the ground, The Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle and Scootaloo had approached him, looking (yet again) amazed at what Axton had pulled off.

“How d’you do it?!” Apple Bloom exclaimed with what seemed a mixture of awe and excitement.

“I-“ Axton started, but before he could utter another word, he felt himself weaken, and the world spun around him, sending him tumbling to the ground in a darkness that enveloped his senses, plunging him into darkness.

> The Awakening
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapter 5- The Awakening

Lights blurred all around his eyes as Axton opened his eyes, the sudden light blinding him momentarily. After his eyes had adjusted to the near-blinding light of what seemed to be a hospital ward, he found himself being stared at by many-a-pony. However, before any of them could get a word in edgeways, a doctor barged through to check up on him.
“Ah, awake already I see! Quite the coma you’ve been in, hm?” The doctor pony remarked “Anyhow, you can call me Doctor Stable or ‘Doc’ as the others prefer to informally call me.” He chuckled lightly at this statement, making Axton smile a little.
“Uh... Doc, how long have I been out?” Axton questioned the doctor, worried that everypony may have thought the worst.
“Actually, that’s what has worried me... Axton, you’ve been out for three months, and that’s longer than anypony has ever been out due to magic over-use.” Doctor Stable explained “I'll just check you over once more before letting you get back on on your hooves, ok?"

Eventually, after his parents had greeted him, with a few tears and his mother saying “I’m glad my little Axty is ok. Such a brave young colt”. Even Eagle Eyes was impressed and said so when he remarked with a small smirk “Well, you’re tougher than I thought, you magic little blighter.” (Eagle Eyes was a Pegasus like his mother, but Axton was a Unicorn like his father). His father simply looked at him with a look that said "I’m glad you’re ok, but you’re a tough little bugger like your father so I had no doubt from the start". After his parents had left, his mother being the reluctant one to leave Axton alone which irritated him a little, but nonetheless made him happy as he knew that he wasn't forgotten.

Finally getting down from his hospital bed,after those embarrassing tests performed by the doctor,  he walked out of the hospital, picking up his goggles along the way and securing them loosely round his neck. All three of the young fillies, Apple Bloom, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle, decided to greet him by running up to him with grins plastered all over their faces.
Scootaloo decided to speak up first “So, Ax, you really beat up Dumb-Bell? Awesome... but then again it must’ve hurt what with you falling into that coma.”

Sweetie Belle chided “Now now, Scoots, you know he’s been in hospital, of COURSE it hurt!” before politely continuing “Anyway, Axton, we would like you to come with us. So, Axton, Do you accept?” She said this in one of the most ladylike tones of speaking he had ever heard.

“Eh, I don’t know...” Axton hesitated.

Before he could make a decision, Apple Bloom went and gave him puppy eyes before asking in an incomprehensibly cute “Pretty please?” I mean honestly, who could say no to that level of cuteness?

Rolling his eyes and smiling a little he answered “Alright but no-“before he could finish one of the three, Sweetie Belle squealed “Blindfold him!” before his world turned to blackness.

Adjusting to the light yet again, after the blindfold was pulled off he found he was in a small room, which he guessed was a tree-house. The one room of the tree-house consisted of a table, a small painted table complete with plates & flowers on the table. Also, a small poster adorned the wall, which Axton guessed was for the roll-call, along with a lamp hanging from the ceiling from a piece of rope above what looked like a painted target. Axton guessed that was the thinking spot. Next there were two windows on the left and right of the tree-house. All in all, it looked a decent place to hang out, and had
Apple Bloom, seeing the impressed looked on Axton’s face, beamed like a six-year old filly on a Hearth’s Warming and decided to explain.

“THIS is the Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse!” Apple Bloom announced in a voice which seemed to Axton something that would rival a Royal Canterlot voice.  Turning back to a normal voice she began her explanation “The Cutie Mark Crusaders, Or the CMC, are dedicated to helping those who don’t have their Cutie Marks!”

“Which seems to suit you well seems and though you don’t have yours neither!” Scootaloo pointed out.

“Anyway, before somepony butted in,” Apple Bloom sent a look in Scootaloo’s direction “We decided to let you in to the Cutie Mark Crusaders! Along with Babs Seed, you’ll be one of our newest members!” All three of them looked at Axton expectantly, waiting for a response.

“Well... meh, whatever I guess it couldn’t hurt to get a little jump start on getting my Cutie Mark.” Axton said this with a smile. It felt good to be part of something for once. 

“Then on behalf of my fellow fillies,” Sweetie Belle announced regally “I welcome you to the Cutie Mark Crusaders!” 

> A Dream of Gods
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

‘ugh...’ Axton thought, slowly standing up to find a large expanse before him, covered in dust, old cogs and machinery dwarfing him, looming over him like giant metal monsters. The floor below was covered in a thick blanket of dust and strange markings adorned the walls, somehow being complex and intriguing at the same time. He slowly started walking along the dust and machine filled corridors, and as he passed each machine it rumbled to life, gears grinding and clanking as the age old machinery came to life around him, filling the air with a rhythm of clunks and clanks. He continued walking and looking at the strange stone statues, guardians of what looked something old, and long lost into the endless web that was time itself. Looking up, he saw a light at the end of the corridor, emanating from a door, looking like it had not been used in centuries. As he approached the door, it glowed even brighter, a blue light emitting from underneath the cracks of it.
“Who goes there..?” A voice reverberated through the door and echoed in the corridor around him, causing the very ground beneath him to shake. What he had noticed though, was that he was no longer standing upon the dusty old floor that he had been standing on recently. What had once been dust-covered brick was now a polished silver floor glittering and shining like the finest steel plate in all of Equestria... remembering that great, earth shaking voice, he looked up at the door and answered in the bravest voice he could muster.
“M-my name is Axton Coglink, son of Axel Wrench and Bright Mane, brother to Eagle Eyes...” A little more nervously now he added “W-what is it you wanted?”
Yet again, the voice rumbled around the corridor again “Ah, we have been waiting for you, machine heart” the voice struck a chord in Axton’s mind making him confused. As if reading his mind, the voice spoke once again “You have no need to be confused, young one. Enter...”
And with this, the giant mechanised doorway started to open, cogs clunked and the sound of a bar of the inside was being raised came from inside. The blue light that was seen from those cracks in the door now bathed Axton in its glow, making him squint slightly as everything that surrounded him gained a blue tint.

Entering what looked like a humongous dome shaped room, Axton took a good look around the room. What looked like a giant blue Diamond floated upon a pedestal within the room, which left Axton awestruck. ‘That diamond’s the size of two minotaur!!’ Axton thought, stepping further into the room.

“Welcome to the room of Apparatus Guardianus, Machine Heart.” The Voice said again. Turning to where the voice came from, Axton faced what looked like three metallic bipedal creatures, clad head to foot in heavy bronze looking armour, looming him over him (they were at least quadruple his height and triple his width). However each one was different. The one who spoke was blatantly the leader of the group, carrying with him a large staff, which had was adorned with more of those strange markings, complete with a diamond on the top which emanated energy from it, and Axton could literally feel its power.

The being had glowing blue eyes in what seemed like its helmet, although his two companions differed greatly from him. The one on his left resembled a more female machine, and unlike the other two, did not have a helmet, instead donning what looked like hunting gear (still made out of the heavy bronze metal), and light looking boots. In her hand she held a gleaming bow which had forest green emeralds upon the limbs of the bow, matching her eyes which glowed within the same earthy green colour. The female metallic giant being struck awe and terror into his heart at the same time. The guardian upon the leader’s right bore a duo of two handed broadswords in his hands which had rubies in them, and just like the other two guardians weapons, the red glow upon his weapons matched the glow of his eyes, which appeared red and burning; forever burning hot coals in the darkest pits of his horned helmet. Like the female guardian, he was slightly shorter than their leader, but unlike the others, his glare held only anger, making Axton quake slightly and avoid eye contact.

Snapping out of his trance, Axton looked up at the leader of this trio of metallic gods. The leader looked at him with a fatherly smile, and spoke yet again in his earth shaking voice “Welcome to our home Apparatus Cor. My name is Magus De Praeterito.” He gesture to himself with the point of his staff, then to his left which made his staff glow green, where the machine huntress stood “This is Venatrix De Nocte, the huntress of the night.” Next he gestured to his right, again with his staff, this time the giant staff glowing red, like the hot coals that of the warrior god’s eyes “And this, is Fortissimum Draco Berserker... Although you can probably guess what he does!” The giant mage god said this with a chuckle, as his staff regained its bright white glow. 

“However,” He continued, coming back on subject “We have entered your dreams to tell you one thing. When the time comes, you must sacrifice yourself to save this land you call Equestria. You may survive, you may not. That will be Hades choice, although none of us here like him, to be honest.” The warrior god on his right grunted his agreement, making a movement with his head and neck which caused a sound like that of crunching metal. Judging from the snarl on the warrior god’s face, he seemed to be holding a grudge against whoever Hades was.

“But enough idle chit chat young Machine Heart. It is time for you to wake up from your slumber. And should you need us, look to your dreams where the world is entirely your own...” The Great metal giant explained this with the care of a father and after uttering the words, the giant diamond upon the pedestal started to glow again and a white light enveloped Axton waking him from his slumber.

> Preparation for an Adventure
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Waking up to another day within the reaches of peaceful Ponyville, another wonderful weekend, a vaguely tired Axton was about to go out of the door when a knock sounded off of it, catching his attention. Opening it to see who it was, all three of the Cutie Mark Crusaders tumbled in on him, a tsunami of bodies pushing him to the ground, dazing him slightly.
“Ugh... you do know how t’ make an entrance don’t you?” Axton mumbled, adjusting himself so that his saddlebag was in place, along with his goggles “Anyways, I’ve gotta tell you girls something, and although you may or may not believe it, it could mean something. But not here, at the clubhouse, ok?”

The three girls looked at each other with curious glances and back at Axton, as if examining him, unnerving him greatly. Scootaloo decided that it was probably best to get going and piped up loudly “MAYBE.... it’s about your CUTIE MARK!!” At the mention of a cutie mark, Sweetie Belle gave out a high pitched squeal of delight, and Apple Bloom simply grinned with a grin that threatened to split her face in half. Axton could only smile about how much these girls wanted to get their cutie marks. Who was he to stop them, as he still yearned for his to gain his rightful place in life? Scootaloo, decided to lead the party off to the clubhouse first, hopping on her scooter and zooming ahead of the rest of the small party of crusaders, leaving them galloping full pelt behind the scooter. 

Reaching, the secluded area of sweet apple acres, where Scootaloo’s scooter was parked, Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom and Axton made their way up into the clubhouse to see Scootaloo messing around on what seemed like a pair of drums, beating out an impressive solo. Finally, Scootaloo finished with an ear splittingly loud crescendo, holding her hooves up high, as if thanking an invisible crowd.  Noticing the other three’s stunned expressions; she flushed with embarrassment and stole a glance at the others before clearing her throat noisily “So... about that dream you had, Ax, I’d like to hear it. Anyway, what made it so serious that none of us could hear about it?”

Promptly sitting down at the ‘meeting table’ (which was where they talked about all their concerns and generally gossiped about this, that and the other), Axton explained his dream to the others, receiving varied reactions from them all. Scootaloo looked at Axton with a look that seemed to say ‘ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh, so AWESOME! But whether it’s the real deal or not is what kind of freaks me out’, Sweetie Belle looked at him in a mixture of fear and awe, with a mixture of comprehension in between. On the other hoof, Apple Bloom looked at him deeply, with a mixture of concern and affection. Axton brow raised in question when looking at Apple Bloom, who seemed to snap out from a trance, blushing furiously and hiding her face behind her mane. Scootaloo looked at Sweetie Belle and the two shared a knowing look before giggling. 

Seems they noticed what Apple Bloom was thinking as well. Axton on the other hoof was left clueless and simply thought ‘fillies... I’ll never understand them'. Shaking his head, he asked the other to voice their opinions.

“Well this could be serious, but I think it’s about your Cutie Mark” Scootaloo gave her input, her usually cheery voice dead serious.
“Uh, yeah...  ah agree with Scoots this one, although maybe it might mean” Apple Bloom was cut off as Sweetie Belle squealed with delight (yet again) and clapped her hooves together before speaking “That means we could become..” 

Sweetie Belle gathered her breath and then yelled in a voice that could rival Luna’s Canterlot voice “CUTIE MARK CRUSADER EXPLORERS!!!!” 

This new suggestion caught everyone off guard, and although Axton thought the idea was a bit weird, he agreed to go along with it as it may bring him closer to an explanation of his dream. After all, he doubted anypony had heard of it before making it nigh on impossible to think anypony would know what he would be babbling about. Even that pony Twilight Sparkle would most likely think it eccentric in the very least. No, it had to be kept quiet for now.

“Okay, that sounds like a good idea, but we’ll need to prepare for tomorrow, as we may not be back till nightfall so it would be wise to gather a lot of supplies.” Everypony nodded before Axton continued “Apple Bloom, we’ll need some rope, I’ll gather some hooks, water and food are an essential, but it could be wise to bring our tents just in case. Anything else that you feel is essential feel free to bring in your saddlebags, ok?” The others nodded their agreement and Apple Bloom decided to end the meeting standing and saying “Alrigh’. Cutie Mark Crusaders, let’s get to it!”

The group went home with high hopes and buzzing heads, returning to their respective homes to prepare for the next morning, and what adventures it would bring upon the Crusaders.

> A Minor Incident
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Waking up to the sound of knocking on the door, Axton groaned and thought to himself ‘Why in the hay are my parents always out when something needs doing?’.Dragging himself to his hooves, he sluggishly made his way to the door. Opening it, he saw the CMC standing there looking at him with giant grins on their faces and saddlebags on their backs, which by the looks of it, were full to the brim with camping gear. Along with the saddlebags, each of the girls had what looked like a tent on their backs.  Scootaloo looked at him accusingly.

“Uh... Ax, you ready to get going? I know it’s early, but that ain’t an excuse, dude! This is an exploration!” While she said this, she paced back and forth in front of the door, reminding Axton of a drill sergeant. Before she could carry on, Apple Bloom cut her off.

“Look Scoots, nopony’s perfect. Got your gear Axton?” Axton nodded and before he headed inside to get his gear, he gave Apple Bloom a thankful smile, making her blush slightly, hiding again behind her mane. As Axton walked out of ear shot and into the house to gather his stuff, Scootaloo and Sweetie Belle looked at each other before bursting out in a sing song voice “~Axton and Apple Bloom, sitting in a tree...~” Causing Apple Bloom’s cheeks to go from a blushing scarlet to a flushed crimson in embarrassment.

Meanwhile, back in the house, Axton had gone up to his room to gather the supplies from his room. Of course his parents did not know about his venture and he had already prepared a note just in case they weren’t there (Axton’s parents were Ultra-Strict). Opening a small hatch in the side of his room after moving his bed slightly, he accessed what was his medium sized, but nonetheless precious vault in which he kept his essential items and other stuff that he had kept over the years. Grabbing his saddlebags, he checked through them.

The left saddlebag was packed to the brim with items such as water, bread and other food items; these items made sure he would not get hungry or thirsty. The saddlebag on his right contained the more practical tools; the grappling hooks, a small extendable shovel and some rock pickaxes, to aid in climbing. Securing these along with his tent upon his back, he grabbed the final item he needed; his mech goggles. These would be essential, as sometimes maybe the finer details would need to be looked at if they found anything of interest, although he kind of liked to wear them just because they made him feel cool. 

Securing the goggles in their usual position around his neck, he made sure his note was on the table before shutting the house door and locking it with his spare key that he always kept with him (he had made one after a rather unfortunate of getting locked out of the house on a late night excursion, forcing him to sleep in a nearby hay bale. To make it all worse, he had woken up sodden and freezing), and set off towards a cave, nearby the Everfree forest with the other three.

Reaching the cave within a few hours, the four young ponies stood at the entrance to the cave which they had planned to visit the day before.  Looking at each other and venturing into the cave, they found the cave to be pitch- black. Lighting up the cave with his magic, Axton decided to get a good look around the cave, placing his mech goggles over his eyes. Nothing seemed too out of the ordinary, minus a few gems that were pointed out by small glimmers in the lenses of his goggles. Scootaloo asked if anything was up and why he was wearing his goggles and what they did.

Axton was obliged to tell what his goggles did, and gladly explained “These goggles were given to me by my Pen Pal, Iris Sapphire, who currently lives in Manehatten. Described in the schematic that came with the letter, these goggles can do many things at will of the Unicorn wearing them. These are magic goggles, but can be worn by other species of pony like pegasi and earth ponies, however have a lesser effect. Unicorns are enabled the ability to see in the dark, and notice the tiniest details with these goggles on, which helps if you’re making something or working on a project. The same goes to Pegasi and Earth Ponies to a lesser extent.” 

Sated by the explanation, the group Carried onward, where Axton pointed out to where the gems were to be found within the cave, and Scootaloo and Apple Bloom got to work on cracking them open with some small pickaxes that they had stashed with them. Sweetie Belle refused to mine away at any of the rocks as she stated it was “Un-becoming of a young filly” and refused to get her hooves dirty. While Scootaloo worked, she muttered something about Sweetie Belle being “Too much like her sister”.  Once both of the two fillies had finished (Axton was still looking around for anything out of the ordinary), and placing the gems into a sack they had dubbed ‘the loot sack’, the four ventured further into the cave, only to stumble upon a giant blue being, similar looking to a giant blue grizzly bear, which had a giant white star upon its head. Everyone looked terrified by this great blue titan, and ran for it.

Before they could react, a blue blur zoomed past them, headed straight for its face and delivered a swift uppercut towards the jaw of the great beast, enraging it. While the others were hiding at the entrance, motioning for him to run away with them, Axton got a look at the creature that was delivering a swift beating to the Ursa Minor. It was a colt, quite like Axton, but had small green horns protruding from his head. His tail looked like it was made out of crystals, and glimmered in the light. As well as this, the pupils of the pony’s eyes were knife like slits, sharp and piercing. When the pony had flown past Axton and the others, he had thought the colt was a Pegasus with a gift for flying, but Axton now saw the Colt had leathery wings, like that of a dragon which, although didn’t seem too big, seemed to carry the young colt effortlessly. Another strange thing was that the young colt had an unnatural amount of strength. All these differences caused Axton to think ‘Maybe it’s a hybrid pony. I’ve read about them in the libraries of Oatsralia, but I’ve never seen one. From what I can gather, he looks something like a half dragon, half pony hybrid. Strange.’

Coming to his senses, he had seen that the fight was swiftly over; leaving the Ursa Minor whimpering like a wounded cub, limping back into the depths of the cave it lived in. Turning back to them, the young colt flew with a surprising speed over to where the four had gathered at the entrance of the cave. Axton spoke up first.

“On behalf of me and my friends here, thanks for saving our flanks from that Ursa. Although I didn’t catch your name. What was it?”

The hybrid pony spoke, while he observed the others one by one “The name’s Defensive Flight, but that was nothing, the brute had it coming to him.”

Conversing more, Axton finally asked “By the way, how did you find us? Also, are you a hybrid pony?”

Defensive Flight looked worriedly at his wings, but replied in a steady voice “Yes and.... Yes. Half-dragon. And by means of finding you, you left tracks in the path AND I even saw you entering the cave, from my cave up there, hence I decided to help. And as to means as to seeing in the cave, I can see in the dark. Any other questions, or are you gonna stare at how weird I am?”

Raising an eyebrow, Axton replied in a surprised tone “Honestly? I don’t think you’re weird. But why live in a cave? Y’know, coming to think about it, you could crash at my place for a while, I’m sure my parents wouldn’t mind.”

The young colt looked at the Dragon-pony, eventually receiving a reply “...Really? You... don’t think I’m a freak?” The young dragon-pony broke into a grin and looked at the others with the same grin plastered on his face before his eyes teared up a little “T-thanks!”

The rest of them replied with an encouraging nod, and looked at their flanks before sighing, looking at each other and laughed it off as the now-group of five ponies made their way back home for the night, Defensive Flight flying above the rest with a smile coming across his face as he flew above as a single thought flashed through his mind.

‘I am accepted for who I am’.

> Justice is Served
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Waking up early, Defensive Flight stood up on the roof of the house in which Axton lived in. They were currently sharing Axton’s room (Axton slept as usual in his bed, while Defensive slept in a sleeping bag upon the floor). A thought flashed through his mind ‘Still, it’s more comfortable than the floor of a cave, and beggars can’t be choosers’. Getting up on the roof had been an easy matter, as his powerful wings had gotten him up to the roof easily within a matter of seconds. He watched the sun rise over Ponyville as far as the eye could see, a beacon of hope, radiance and beauty, giving a glow to all the surrounding houses, which glimmered like jewels under the glory that was the sun. The place upon the roof that Defensive had perched himself upon was also bathed in the light, which moved up his body slowly to bathe him in the golden glow, warming his body and wings, making him much more relaxed.

A little while later, he heard the household waking up, (being a dragon pony hybrid, he had more awakened senses than the average pony). Remembering he had school, not that he was enthusiastic about it, he flew down back into Axton’s room to get ready.

The small group of ponies reached the school within a matter of minutes, while Defensive trailed behind the group nervously looking from his new friends and then back to his leathery wings. Unlike the other ponies, he didn’t mix well at schools, due to the fact that he stood out like a sore hoof in crowds, and thus always attracted the wrong kind of attention to himself. The last school he had been in had every kind of bully going; from the small incompetent ones, to the huge, muscled thug and brutes that patrolled the corridors like bandits, lurking around and preying on the weaker students with their over-sized cronies; predators of the school. Of course, attracting the wrong kind of attention also meant he got into a lot of fights which mainly always ended with the bullies ending up on the floor moaning. Then they made up stupidly impossible stories about how he was the bully. It was a living hell, and one of the main reasons he had stayed away from society for so long.

Before long, he was broken out of his train of thought by Scootaloo waving her hoof in front of his face. 
“Equestria to Defensive, do you read me?” giggling a little, Scootaloo stopped waving her hoof in Defensive’s face, knowing that she had his attention. 

“Huh? Oh, sorry Scoots, I zoned out for a bit there” Smiling lightly, the ponies made their way into the schoolhouse before the bell rung, sitting down at their desk. Well, apart from Defensive, who was met outside the classroom by the teacher, Miss Cheerilee, who promptly introduced herself.

“Hello, Defensive, on behalf of the rest of the class I would like to welcome you to Ponyville. You may call me Cheerilee, as Miss Cheerilee is too formal for my liking. There’s no need to be nervous, as we’re a friendly bunch, so you can make your way inside and choose your seat.” She said this with a smile, and led the way into the classroom, with Axton following nervously.

Introducing him to the rest of the class, Cheerilee announced “Class, I would like you to meet Defensive Flight, who will be here for quite a long time. I ask all of you, yes that means you two as well” at this comment, she gave a distrusting glance at Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon, and then carried on “to make Defensive feel welcome at this school. I hope I make myself clear?” She questioned, casting a long look around the room, receiving a chorus of ‘Yes Miss’ from the rest of the class. 
Trotting to his seat, which was fortunately placed on Axton’s left, he looked down at his text book and exercise book that he had gotten from the school the previous day, and wrote down what was on the board as the lesson began. 

Before long, a spit ball hit the back of his head, followed by a series of titters from the back desk. Looking round, Defensive saw two ponies sitting and leaning back on their chairs with straws in their mouths and a bag of ripped up and small spit balls stashed in their desks. However, he was not the only one annoyed by the two bullies’ behaviour. 

Sitting next to Defensive, Axton had noticed that his friend was getting picked on, and he wasn’t going to let it go that easily. Focusing on the location of both Diamond Tiara’s and Silver Spoon’s back chair legs, he focused his aura to be invisible before his eyes briefly flashed grey; the effect that he had cast upon the two bully’s chair legs was instantaneous. Under the two ponies’ weight, the back chair legs crumpled and folded in, causing both of the malicious girls to fall back on their flanks, stunned.

The class erupted into laughter, and even Cheerilee couldn’t hold back a small smile as justice was served upon the two bullies, and they were sent outside the class to get a stern talking to. Before heading out of the classroom, Cheerilee turned to Axton to give a small nod, letting him know that she appreciated his actions, even if they were a little unorthodox.

The next couple of minutes passed quickly within the classroom as Defensive turned to Axton, still in his seat.
“Was that you? Y’know, saving my flank from those bullies.” Defensive asked Axton, who replied with a mischievous grin upon his face.

“Yes... and yes!” Axton said with a small chuckle, evidently pleased to get one back on the bullies “I weakened the metal within their chairs, making it fold beneath them. And man, did it feel good!”

“Well, I guess it showed those two bullies whose boss, right? Anyway, if Ax hadn’t done anything I would’ve.” Scootaloo  mentioned, looking at Defensive, before looking away with a pink tinge on her cheeks.

“Yeah, Axton, that was pretty cool! Well, ah thought so.” Apple Bloom stated with impressed voice. It was Axton’s cheeks which went a little pink this time.

Sweetie Belle, on the other hand, simply nodded curtly to Axton, before continuing with her work, and doodling now and then in the back of her books. The rest of the class looked suitably baffled as to what had transpired within those few minutes, but were happy nonetheless at the bullies who got a taste of their own medicine.

As the bell for the end of school rung, Axton was about to make his way home when Apple Bloom caught up with him, slightly out of breath. 

“Hey... Axton?” Apple Bloom inquired with a small smile and blush upon her face “Ah was wonderin’ whether or not you wanted to come to round mah place sometime. We’re having a small bonfire night, with all them fancy fireworks and everything!” By this time Apple Bloom was going all out to impress Axton, the blush in her face growing slightly more crimson by the minute.

“Sure, Apple Bloom, I would love to go to this celebration.” Axton replied simply with small smile on his face, glad to get the hang of what Apple Bloom was asking.

Without warning, Apple Bloom’s reaction to Axton’s reply was that she grinned hugely, before rushing up to him and giving him a quick peck on the cheek before blushing profusely and dashing off towards the direction of the converted barn house, the residency of the Apple Family.

Axton looked stunned, amazed and glad all at the same time before thinking ‘Didn’t see that one coming.’

> A Party In Bloom 
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The night of the party was fast approaching, and Axton was in his room, fretting on what to wear to Apple Bloom’s. Meanwhile, Defensive sat on Axton’s bed chatting idly to him. 

Looking over at him, Defensive asked “So, remind me again why you’re fretting over every single detail?”

Looking over, Axton was pacing the room back and forth, his mane in a mess as he thought of what to wear to impress Apple Bloom. Looking back at Defensive, he replied hastily, still foraging throughout his wardrobe.

“Because,” Axton stated “I need something to impress Apple- I mean, I need something good to wear to the party!”

“You could’ve told me you were trying to impress Apple Bloom” Defensive stated bluntly, smirking that his friend had a crush on someone.

“What? I didn’t say anything of the sort!” Axton exclaimed.

“Did so” Defensive quipped.

“Did not!”

“Did soooo~” jeered Defensive, finally bursting out laughing when Axton’s face burnt a deep crimson, giving away the truth at last. But Axton had a trick up his sleeve.

“Anyway, what about you and Scoots? I bet you’ve got the hots for her, am I right?” It was Axton’s turn to smirk now, as Defensive turned bright red, his wings snapping to his side suddenly, as sign that he was flustered.

Axton shook his head and with a mischievous grin, continued his search for something to wear to the party. For a moment, he paused to look at the clock which was mounted on the wall; he noticed the two ponies had around an hour to get ready.
After a few more moments of searching, Axton found what he was looking for. Below him lay one of his finest works ever. It was the ceremonial grey, but nonetheless shining steel chest plate that he had been working on for ages. The chest plate was a shining silver colour, only the finest metal work, with a golden trim upon it. On the center piece was a diamond encrusted within the metal work, which glimmered within the light, giving off a blue glint. The diamond was as big as one of Axton’s eyes, and was given to him after he helped fix the clock tower in the Oatsralia shopping center.

But that was not all. The diamond within the chest plate was enchanted magically, courtesy of Iris Sapphire and her father in return for a batch of mechanical parts, necessary to help operate a few of the machines at their store. The properties of this diamond were this; the wielder of the diamond that was within the chest plate would have what’s known as a Pure-Coat. This meant that any dirt or grime that came within contact of the pony’s coat would immediately fall off; making sure that everything on the pony’s body was clean. The diamond also made sure that the wearer smelt nice, emitting a clean and good smelling aroma. It was the perfect item to wear that would impress Apple Bloom.

Defensive, however, decided to wear something that he kept very close to him. Adjusting his wings, he attached his golden wing braces so that his wings shined with a golden and blue sheen in the light, reflecting what looked like a golden aura around the room.

As the two young colts were set, they set off towards Sweet Apple Acres, hopes high. Defensive flew above Axton, with his leathery wings spread out catching the wind and propelling him swiftly towards his destination. On the other hoof, Axton galloped towards his destination as his chest plate’s magic cleaned away his sweat and the dirt and dust that came onto him.
The two young colts’ hopes were high as they headed towards the party that night.

Meanwhile, at Sweet Apple Acres...

Apple Bloom hadn’t bothered with too much of a fancy get-up for the party, but that still meant that she wanted to impress Axton. Although she only hoped that he thought the same about her.
Upon her head, in place of her usual red bow, was something bedazzling in comparison. Given to her by Granny Smith a few years back, the velvet red bow she now wore upon her head had a large ruby securing it, and her hair was perfectly styled, courtesy of Applejack. Her eyelashes had been plucked and her hair groomed, thanks to Sweetie Belle and the help of Rarity.

A little while later, Scootaloo came into her room wearing a white satin short skirt, which reflected the light off as the golden trim that it had tiny, non encrusted jewels here and there. Scootaloo looked subconsciously at herself then back to Apple Bloom.

“Uh, Apple Bloom, will this be enough to impress Defen- I mean, uh, to wear to the party?” Scootaloo asked nervously, shifting from hoof to hoof.

“Yeah, ya’ll be fine Scoots, ah’m just hoping Ax- uh, ah mean... ah hope mah bow’s goin’ to be good enough for the other guests at the party!” Apple Bloom said the last part hurriedly, with a small pink tinge on her cheeks.
Little did they know, Apple Bloom’s elder sister was standing at the doorway, and caught both of the two off-guards before stating “Ah’m sure you’ll be all prim an’ proper for yer coltfriends. Well, they should be impressed at the effort you’ve made, at least”

Surprised, and hurriedly trying to cover up the fact that they both had crushes they both quickly exclaimed in unison “Wha-? No, we don’t have coltfriends! I mean, we’d like to but-“By this time, both of the young fillies’ faces were a deep crimson and the two were shifting on the wooden floor, avoiding eye contact with Applejack.

At this, Applejack knew she was right, and that Apple Bloom may actually have a special somepony. She just hoped that his thoughts were the same about Apple Bloom. Brushing the thought aside, she decided to get out of her room. Scootaloo after a final look, followed shortly.

20 minutes later, The Party at Sweet Apple Acres

The night had reigned in upon Equestria and the surrounding lands as the princesses had lowered the sun and raised the moon, and the party was already underway at the farm house. The Apple family had provided everything for the party guests; outside the barn was a large bonfire with small benches placed around it at a safe distance, providing more than enough warmth. Other members of the apple family had come from all across Equestria to sell their wares at the party, which were mainly food based. 

Axton entered the barn, along with Defensive, who decided it was best to eat first, and ask questions later. Watching Defensive run off towards the food with his saddle-money that he had got from Axton’s family, Axton decided to take a look around the place, and soon found that he had bumped into Apple Bloom’s elder sister Applejack, who looked suitably impressed by his attire.

“Howdy there, pardner and welcome to Sweet Apple- ah! Yer Apple Bloom’s friend, aint’cha?” Applejack questioned looking Axton up and down, glad that he had made an effort to impress her little sister. When she took a look at the center piece of Axton’s chest plate, her eyes widened significantly at the diamond that lay encrusted within, and thought ‘Cripes, a diamond like that would make somepony like Rarity faint!’ 

Axton looked at Applejack and chuckled a little before replying “Yes, I’m Apple Bloom’s friend, Axton. Pleasure to meet you. I don’t suppose you have any inkling of Apple Bloom’s whereabouts do you?” Axton replied formally to Applejack, wanting to make a good impression. After all, his father always said manners were free.

Applejack smiled at the young colts’ manners, before replying in a hushed tone “It’s good ya have manners, pardner. Don’t know where mah lil sis is though, but if yer havin’ thoughts about her, yes them ones, just treat her nicely or ah’ll have Big Mac on yer tail faster than you can say ‘horseapples’, do ah make mahself clear?”

Axton gulped before replying carefully, his words true “Applejack, I wouldn’t hurt your little sister if my life depended on it.” Looking round, he saw Apple Bloom, who was being cornered by...

...

Those two!

Excusing himself from Applejack’s attention, he saw that it was too late, as Apple Bloom ran out of the back entrance of the barn sobbing, with Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon standing there with triumphant grins on their malicious faces.
That was the final straw for Axton.
The room suddenly seemed to go a deathly silent as Axton was coated head to foot in steel armour, red orbs where the eyes were meant to be; he had transformed into a giant metal pony that was at least five times his size. Everypony backed away slowly as Axton made his way towards the two bullies, who were too late to notice the furious behemoth that was stomping towards them, flames licking off of its hooves. Finally, Axton opened his temporarily mechanic mouth and bellowed, his voice rocking the very foundations of the barn, reverberating deeply, making the two shiver.

“HOW DARE YOU PICK ON APPLE BLOOM?!” His voice was louder than Luna’s Canterlot voice, tenfold “NOW IF YOU HAVE ANY RESPECT FOR YOURSELVES, I SUGGEST YOU LEAVE, IMMEDIATELY! AND IF YOU DO NOT APOLOGIZE NEXT TIME YOU SEE APPLE BLOOM, I SWEAR BY THE PITS OF TARTARUS THAT YOU WILL KNOW PAIN LIKE NEVER BEFORE!” 

The two were terrified by this giant metal pony being, and Diamond Tiara promptly fainted; Silver Spoon placed Diamond Tiara on her back before scarpering from the vicinity of Sweet Apple Acres; not looking back once due to the fear that the demonic metal giant was on their tails.

The metal fell away from Axton’s body before disappearing into nothingness, and Axton was reverted to his normal form, with a large crowd of ponies staring at him in awe and the justice he had dealt in front of everyone to the two bullies.
One pony came up, who Axton would later find out to be Featherweight. The young colt bravely announced “Good riddance of those bullies, mate!” before nodding and moving off into the crowd that dispersed as the party went back to normal.

Applejack looked onwards from the sidelines in awe as Axton walked out in search of Apple Bloom. He was only mildly tired at the feat of magic that he had performed, and Applejack thought to herself before shuddering ‘Not even Twilight could know how to do something like that. Apple Bloom’s a lucky filly to have someone as strong as that protecting her. Wouldn’ wanna tussle with him when he’s in a bad mood.’

Outside the barn party of Sweet Apple Acres

Apple Bloom was sitting outside of the barn, looking up at the moon which was full and bright. She looked up at the moon and thought ‘What if those two were right? What if Axton doesn’t like me? Does me not having my cutie mark not make myself good enough for someone like him? Am I just a worthless filly...?’ 

Apple Bloom looked down at the ground and silently sobbed. Little did she know, Axton had entered from the same entrance that Apple Bloom had came from and before sitting down, he removed his chest plate and whispered softly so as to get Apple Bloom’s attention “Hey, Apple Bloom.” As Apple Bloom looked over at Axton, she smiled softly before nodding, telling Axton to take a seat on the floor outside the barn.

After Apple Bloom had calmed down, she asked Axton “Axton, why did you help me out when you first came here?” As Apple Bloom said this, she looked up at the moon, her eyes sparkling.

Caught off-guard Axton was stunned into silence before looking at Apple Bloom once and smiling before replying to her question “It’s because it was the right thing to do. I’ve always had this knack for being the unfortunate good guy in most situations. But, when I saw you three it reminded me of the first time I got bullied, back in Oatsralia. These two thugs were behind me and decided I was easy pickings. They pushed me over and beat me senseless and I couldn’t fight back; I couldn't move for five days afterwards and was put in extensive care, meaning I was hospitalized for a whole week before they let me out. I still have a scar from that time; they cut me up pretty bad, those bullies.” As he said this he used his magic to lift his unruly mane a little to reveal a large, ugly red scar that ran half the length of his mane. “You know why I hate bullies? Because they do things like this. When I saw you three getting bullied, I felt scared for you. I felt concerned for the other two as well, but you mainly. I didn't want my new friends to be picked on by simpletons like those. I had to be brave.” His feelings were in turmoil now; he felt strongly for Apple Bloom, and now he had confessed that he stood up to the bullies for her sake, he was at a loss for words.

Apple Bloom looked content at the answer and simply looked out at the moon. A few minutes passed, and Apple Bloom went to lay her head upon Axton's shoulder, finally feeling content and with a mixture of emotions that she could not comprehend. Axton, also turning his head, but with terrible timing; the duo ended up bumping into each other face to face, lips locked in a silent kiss. After what seemed like hours, the two broke away from the kiss, and settled more into a hug.

Apple Bloom looked into Axton’s eyes and saw what the emotion was in there, reflecting exactly how she felt; love. Axton smiled before giving Apple Bloom a small kiss on the forehead, and eventually stood up. He cleared his throat and decided it was time to go back. Apple Bloom nodded and stuck close to Axton, loving him all the more for sticking by her in her time of need.

Princess Luna looked down upon the couple from her vision that she used to survey Equestria. She used the moon as a personal telescope to look upon the two and smiled to herself before thinking ‘Young Love’.
> Hearts and Hooves Day
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The schoolhouse was full of young ponies as another new school day had begun; colts and fillies alike filled the school desks that adorned the classroom floor. However, today was different from your average school day at the Ponyville Schoolhouse; today was Hearts and Hooves day, meaning everypony got paired up. Of course, Cheerilee let the young ponies choose who they wished to be with for the project that was soon to be voiced to the rest of the class. There was only one rule; if you were a colt, you had to pair up with a filly and vice versa.

Apple Bloom looked across at Axton with a small smile, her face painted a little pink by a growing blush. Axton simply nodded with a welcoming smile, and Axton walked over to her table, grabbing a spare chair and sliding his desk to make it double the length. He slid his chair so he sat near her, her mane brushing his body lightly. At this happenstance, Apple Bloom’s blush turned her face a scarlet crimson before she turned and looked happily at Axton, who returned her look with a small nod and smile.

Meanwhile, Scootaloo had looked around the room for a partner. She most definitely didn’t want to go with Snips or Snails, those two were irritating and un-cool. She continued to gaze around the room for a decent partner. Looking in the other direction, she found herself face to face with Defensive and as the two ponies’ muzzles connected, both went bright red and wide eyed. Breaking away from the light connection of each other’s faces, the two paired up, still blushing furiously.

On the opposite side of the room, Pipsqueak had slowly and quietly approached Sweetie Belle, who was looking enviously at the others who had gotten their partners and proceeded to tap her on the shoulder. Sweetie Belle looked at Pipsqueak once and then smiled warmly as a pink tinge spread across her cheeks. No words were needed to be said and the two smiled at each other before looking towards the board at the assignment.

On the other hoof, Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara grumbled due to being split up and then being paired up with Snips and Snails, who looked away dejectedly.

Cheerilee looked around the class, making sure everypony was in a pair. Her eyes rested on Apple Bloom and Axton, who were sitting closer to each other, and smiled; the two made a lovely couple. With everypony in a pair, she moved on to announce what the assignment was about “Listen up everypony, as its Hearts and Hooves day, a special assignment has been given to us by Mayor Mare herself. The task is to build something that represents something related to love, or the happiness it brings. The winners will receive a prize of a large sum of bits, and the honour shall go to them as their project will be displayed in the town hall!” As Cheerilee said this, the class murmured excitedly to each other, discussing different sorts of ideas that may be good for their projects “All right, you officially have today to make your projects and by tomorrow we will be showing them to Mayor Mare, who will judge the winner. Good luck my Little Ponies!”
The class set off to work, gathering supplies they needed for the upcoming presentation of their projects.
Apple Bloom set off dutifully with Axton at her side, as they made their way towards the carousel boutique, where they received a few decently sized diamonds that were needed. Next up, the pair went to go collect a medium sized rock, about the same size as Axton’s head. The metal they needed was already in the forge below Axton’s house, which Axton was free to use as he pleased.
The roles were this; Axton would craft the main item as he had a steady hand and magic to help him make the main project, while Apple Bloom would draw it, and think of main ideas, with small inputs from Axton.
As the duo collected their last item on the list that they had made in class, which was a positive effect rune book, they were ambushed by a quadruplet of ponies, who were later identified as Silver Spoon, Diamond Tiara, Snips and Snails. Before they could grab any of Axton and Apple Bloom’s materials, they were forced back by a powerful magical force.
Axton’s horn was glowing and his eyes were once more a steel grey sheen, power emanating from him like a fountain. Snips and Snails fled from Axton, shouting something about being sorry, but Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara weren’t giving up so easily. With a snarl, the two jumped towards Axton, before finding themselves levitated against their own will. Axton was concentrating very hard, and before the two bullies could shout their heads off, they were bound by shining metal coils before being slung into a haystack like a pair of rotten fruits.
Apple Bloom couldn’t take any more and burst into laughter, before gathering herself and kissing Axton on the lips once. The kiss was sweet upon Axton’s lips and he felt his heart skip a beat, and swiftly returned the kiss before the two set off to carry on with their task. They were definitely each other’s Special Somepony.

Before long, the two had entered Axton’s house and entered through the trapdoor which was cleverly place under the stairs, and proceeded to enter into the large under-forge which was a large dome chamber under the house. The forge had been made at the request of Axton’s father, Axel wrench, so that he may work on his job in private. The room consisted of a smelter, an anvil, a workbench and grinding stone, along with a crafting bench. To top it all off, the dome had a large see through gem in the top of the room, which illuminated the surface with a bright, luminous blue glow. Contrasting with the red-orange light of the furnace, it lit up the dome shaped room perfectly and beautifully, which never ceased to amaze Axton. Apple Bloom looked at the room in awe as she took in everything. Being with Axton in this room only made the presence of this great architecture more magical and wondrous. 

Before long, the two had quickly drawn up a schematic/plan for their project piece. The design was going to be a lot to make and they quickly got to work, the sound of chisels chipping away at stone and saws sawing at wood filling the air as the two worked tirelessly to complete their project, taking a rest now and then to recuperate and then proceeding to work on the project for the following day.

Within the next few hours, the stone frame of their project was finished, along with the plinth that the project would stand upon; now for the hard part, the diamonds within and the runes that would be carved on the stone. Axton had to get the runes right, otherwise the effects of the rune would be devastating. Hovering up his book, he looked over the runes that were needed to be carved into the beautiful stonework.

The first rune was Balanced Joy, meaning the joy that one gets from friendship and love, the rune in the book showed Axton a straight line with a small diamond shape in it;






The next rune was the rune of Protection, showing that lovers protect each other, even in the dark time; the rune in the book showed it to be a strange design;







The next rune was the rune of Beginning, meaning that a relationship in terms of love can begin, but end just as easily. The rune shown in the book looked somewhat like this;





The second last rune was the rune of peace and happiness, which signified peace and happiness to be gained from a relationship and from being with ones partner. The rune that Axton etched onto the stonework looked like this;







And last but not least, the rune of love which signified the love that is exchanged within a relationship and the love gained from a joining together of loving harmony. The final rune in the book looked like this;








With all the runes etched into the stone, Axton placed the Diamond sphere that Apple Bloom had made into the centre piece, where it was held in place by the runes. Once the diamond had been placed, the runes glowed within the stone; a pink colour and the sphere within gained a pink tinge to it, representing the power of love. The tinge within the sphere floated around like a mist, flowing eternally.

The duo looked at their project with pride as the runes took their effect, which would last forever within a small area of effect. The effect that the runes had within an area of 10 meters would be that of peace, tranquility and happiness. However, that was not the only effect it had. Those ponies who were together in a relationship felt a strengthened bond of love between each other thus feeling more content in each other’s company.

As the day drew to a close, Apple Bloom knew she was ready for the presentation, especially if Axton was to be with her.


(xxxxxxxx)


High up within the Crystal Empire’s royal tower, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza (Or Cadence, as she preferred) sat in her quarters with her husband, Shining Armour.
The two were enjoying a late night supper when, all of a sudden, Cadence’s horn glowed, signifying a great artefact of Love had been created within Equestria; this hadn’t happened in over a hundred years!
Gathering herself, she turned to her husband, who raised his eyebrows, but did not question what his wife was doing as she stood up to go.
Looking once more at her husband, she told him her motives “Tomorrow we go to Ponyville, Shining, as another artefact has appeared. This of the utmost importance”.
> Runic Realization
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton awoke to another beautiful day in Equestria, the sun shining down upon the land, giving the land once more its buttercup yellow glow. Axton looked up to see the time- ‘Horseapples! I’m gonna be late for the presentation if I don’t hurry up!’ He thought, before rushing into the bathroom to get ready for the new day.

The school house bell rung, the ringing carrying across the playground and down the path. Axton had barely made it when he spotted Apple Bloom rushing up to him, grinning happily.

“Y’ made it! Now tha’ you’re here, we’re gonna present our project, and we’re gonna win.” She smiled sweetly at Axton, and then pecked him lightly on the cheek before leading him to the class room, where the presentation was to be held.

As the two came in and sat at their desks, Cheerilee walked in and greeted the class “Hello, students! Today is the day of your presentation for your projects. Mayor Mare and Princess Twilight Sparkle will be judging over whose is the best. Do I make myself clear?” The class nodded, and an excited murmur went around the classroom before they looked back at Cheerilee “Please get your projects ready. I am going to let the Princess and Mayor Mare into the class now. Good luck my students!” Cheerilee left the classroom, allowing Twilight and Mayor Mare to enter.

“Hello there, students. As you know, I am Mayor Mare, and this here is Princess Twilight Sparkle. May the best contestant win; good luck to you all.” Mayor Mare announced.

Twilight, producing a list from nowhere, levitated with her magic and read the first name from the list. “First up are Sweetie Belle and Pipsqueak.” She smiled gently, seeing those two paired up. Purposely, the two stepped up and produced the poem they had made, Sweetie Belle reading it aloud;

Love is an essence of happiness,
It brings us together,
And the tragedy we experience matters less,
For love lives forever.

Happiness is only a small reach away,
For some it is hard to see,
In your heart,  love will always stay,
From love you need not flee.


Love brings us together in the hardest of days,
For it is Love that is the essence of the Hearts and Hooves, or so we say .

Looking at Sweetie Belle and Pipsqueak, Twilight smiled before writing down a few notes and nodding to Mayor Mare, who also jotted down a few notes. Done with their notes, Twilight announced who was next “Up next are Defensive Flight and Scootaloo”. Defensive and Scootaloo brought up a shining dragons scale, which had a ruby heart embedded within it. The two stated that it represented kindness, even among those who were different.

Twilight looked kindly upon the two young ponies, before the two judges jotted down their notes on the presentation of the scale, and how it was preserved. However, Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara stated that they had nothing to present when they were called, and thus chose to storm out of the room.

Fortunately, Snips and Snails had brought forth a banner that the two had made without letting their evil partners know. It had a large heart upon it with the saying embellished beneath; love burns bright.

Thanking the two, Snips and Snails moved back to their seats. It was now the turn of Apple Bloom and Axton, who retrieved their project from the back cupboard and moved it on its stand to the front of the class. Twilight looked impressed at the complex rune-work.

Apple Bloom started off the presentation “Me an’ Axton made this to represen’ Hearts and Hooves day, an’ the essence of Love. The runes hold th’ diamond in place, an’ fills it with th’ essence of Love, which is why ya’ll see the pink inside the diamond. Axton will explain th’ rest.” Bowing her head to the judges she walked to Axton’s side as he began to explain.

“I present to you our project, which I have dubbed the Rose of Ponyville. The runes represent Joy, Beginnings, Peace, Happiness, Protection and Love. These are the essences of Love itself. As Apple Bloom has already told you, the runes levitate the diamond in place within the stone frame. What she hasn't told you is that the runes gather within the diamond to give out an area effect of happiness and whatever power the runes themselves posses. That’s not all though. Those who are with their lovers within ten meters of the diamond have their love strengthened for each other. Our project represents how precious love is, and the overall power it can have over anypony.” Smiling towards the judges, the colt went back to his seat on the double table, with Apple Bloom at his side. As Apple Bloom sat down, she nuzzled Axton affectionately, making him blush a little, before returning the gesture.

With all the items presented, Twilight and Mayor Mare were ready to make their final decision and release their results to the class. Twilight announced the results “In last place, is Snips and Snails, with the Burning Love Banner.” Snips and Snails looked at each other before shrugging; it was no biggie “In second to last is Sweetie Belle and Pipsqueak, with their poem” Sweetie Belle looked disappointed, but Pipsqueak gave her a small peck on the cheek as if to say ‘it doesn't matter, you’re still first to me’ “Second, is Scootaloo and Defensive with the HeartScale, meaning that the winners are...” Twilight looked towards Apple Bloom and Axton with a smile on her face; those two were definitely meant for each other. “Apple Bloom and Axton! Congratulations, please come and receive your prize.” Twilight held out the two companions’ prizes, which consisted of two bags containing six hundred bits each, and a small medal saying ‘Winners of the Hearts and Hooves Project’. 

Apple Bloom had never seen this much money in her life, and neither had Axton. The two looked at each other before hugging each other tightly and running up to gain their prize.

After they received their prizes, the Mayor spoke up “As a thank you for working so hard for our town on Hearts and Hooves day, we are going to let all of Ponyville see every single project for the next week, when the residents of Ponyville shall gather to see them. Thank you all for presenting them to us and- oh? Who’s this?” As she said this, Princess Cadence entered the room, along with her husband, Shining Armour. The two looked around the class before they found what they were looking for; Axton and Apple Bloom’s project. Cadence looked around the room before asking “May I know who made this artifact?” Her eyes rested on Axton who nodded in confirmation to her, Apple Bloom at his side bravely walking forwards with him.

Shining Armour greeted his sister, before letting his wife continue “Last night, due to me being the element of Love, I was alerted that an incredibly powerful artifact of love had been created. Yet I find that the creators of this artifact are as young as you, surprises even me. Once it has been presented to Ponyville, I would like to take it back with me to the Crystal Empire, if that is okay with you.” Cadence looked down upon Axton and smiled; such talent lay within this one. Not only that, but inside him was a great and hidden power that was dormant now, but could be opened at any moment.

“Of course, your majesty. It would be our honor.” Axton replied formally, and Apple Bloom swiftly agreed. Cadence smiled once more; these two are definitely perfect for each other.

The rest of the classroom looked in awe at Axton and Apple Bloom sat back down, and Princess Cadence and Shining Armour walked out.

The day had gone perfectly, and as it drew to a close, Apple Bloom knew she had found her special somepony.

> Treasure and Mysteries
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Another day dawned upon the expanse of Equestria, the sun shining down upon its inhabitants. Axton awoke to the sounds of cooking, which seemed to be coming from downstairs in the kitchen. Looking around his room, he couldn't see Defensive anywhere then thought ‘What am I thinking? He’s probably downstairs. That colt likes his food WAY too much.’ He chuckled at the thought of Defensive looking innocent while his cheeks were bulging with pancakes.

Shaking his head of the thought, he began to get ready for another new day with the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Little did he know, they had another adventure in store for him, and it was going to be another eventful day.

Axton and Defensive met the other CMC at the schoolhouse, and lessons ensued as they walked into the schoolhouse for another day of lessons.

The class were seated by the time Cheerilee walked in, and lessons had just begun. The class was doing basic pony chemistry, a subject which Axton and Defensive were aces at. However, Silver Spoon and Diamond Tiara weren't and thus thought it would be funny to bug Defensive about his heritage.

“Hey, freak. What’s the answer to number five?” Diamond Tiara hissed.

“He’s such a weirdo. I bet his parents didn’t-“ Silver Spoon was cut off by Defensive, who had flared his wings out and had turned to face the two bullies.

Defensive’s eyes had narrowed from the usual type to piercing slits, and he nearly bellowed at the two “You know NOTHING about me, or my parents!” and stormed out of the room with a flash of his wings.

Cheerilee glared at the two bullies before lecturing them “I hope you two are proud of yourselves for earning a week’s detention and a 10 page essay on cultural and racial equality.” She then looked at where Defensive had left through the door, a worried expression on her face.

“Miss, I’ll go talk to him. And you two better watch what you say; I heard that there’s a nice haystack just waiting for two bullies to get shoved into it. Next time you see him, you better apologize.” And with that, Axton walked out of the door after Defensive.

Defensive sat outside the schoolhouse, on the swings that sat in the playground. Tears ran down his face as he remembered his father’s words before he died; “My child, never be sad for who you are. Be proud of what you can become.” Throughout all his time, he had remembered how he had been an outcast. Manehatten, he was chased out for being a freak. Fillydelphia; he had lived there for a while, but ended up leaving as he felt out of place. Then his cave at the edge of the Everfree forest, where he had seen Axton and the rest of the CMC enter that cave. After saving them, he had come to live in Ponyville, where he had been accepted for the first time in his life. That day he would always remember. 
Aware of someponys presence, he turned to see Axton looking at him.

Axton looked at Defensive with pity, before speaking “Don’t worry about those two, they’re idiots and there’s no need to listen to them. You have no reason to be sad about your heritage; I mean you’re bloody strong, aint’cha?” Defensive chuckled at this. He had beaten up an Ursa Minor. “Anyway, you’ve got badass looking wings; all they’ve got is their attitude and their insults. Trust me when I say that won’t get them far.” The two laughed at the small joke they had shared. “What I’m saying is, D, you shouldn’t let those two get you down, they aren’t worth your time. Now, let’s get back to class. Oh, and by the way, they’ll be in detention for about a week; you won’t have to worry about them as they’ll be writing an essay, too.” Defensive seemed to lighten up at the thought of the two bullies getting justice served to them, and began to follow Axton back inside the schoolhouse.

After School, the Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse

“...And then we go from there. All clear?” Axton finished his talk about the plan for what they were doing for today. The five had geared up; shovels, pickaxes, magnifying glasses and copies of ‘A treasure hunter’s guide to exploring’.
They each nodded in agreement before Sweetie Belle burst out at the top of her lungs “CUTIE MARK CRUSADER TREASURE HUNTERS!!!” This sudden outburst of sound assaulted everyponys’ eardrums, and they swiftly set out for another adventure, in a cave not far from the one that housed the Ursa Minor. Defensive asked if they could explore it as he had seen some strange markings upon the wall, and the others had quickly agreed at the thoughts of treasure. However, Axton agreed due to a different reason. These marks that Defensive had mentioned reminded him of his dream in the machine adorned corridor, and the markings that were inscribed upon the wall.

Before long, the group had set off and had reached the mouth of the cave when a voice called out to them “Hey, wait up! I wanna go with you guys!” 

Turning around, they saw a colt running up to them. He had a chocolate dark brown mane, and his coat was just a shade darker, looking almost black at first glance. His race was clearly a unicorn from the small horn protruding from his head. He had a few scuffs on his knees and the odd patch of dirt here and there, so you could tell he loved adventuring. He had a small cloak upon his back where a variety items hung by small hooks.  There was a grapple hook on a rope, a weird spring activated device and a couple of climbing picks. There was also a small hold-all duffle bag attached to the cloak which most likely held food. The colt couldn't seem to stand still either, as if he was almost fueled by his sense for adventure.

Scootaloo decided to speak up first “Who are you, and why in the hay did you follow us?” She walked towards the colt angrily, before Defensive held her back. Being the voice of reason, Axton walked forward and introduced himself and the rest of the CMC “My name is Axton Coglink. These are my friends, Scootaloo, Defensive Flight, Sweetie Belle and my marefriend, Apple Bloom.” At the mention of Apple Bloom being Axton’s marefriend, Apple Bloom’s cheeks coloured profusely. Dark arched an eyebrow before dismissing the action and replying.

“My name is Darkmoon’s Crescent, but you can call me Dark.” He said, looking round the group “‘Course, I came here looking for adventure, and hence I kinda tailed you here.” 

Defensive, unlike Scootaloo, was impressed by this initiative; after all, he had spent a large portion of his life tracking animals to see where they drank and ate so he could get a decent meal. “All right, that seems legitimate. So, coming with us?”

When Defensive asked this, Dark nodded his head vigorously, confusing Defensive; honestly, this kid had way too much energy in him. How did his parents even contain him?

Without anypony there disagreeing, the seven ponies set off into the cave in search of treasure.

Putting his goggles over his eyes, Axton scanned the cave, finding small runic markings leading up along the wall to the central tunnel. The strange markings were constantly shifting, and seemed to make a doorway out of light, only visible to those with the enhanced sight that his goggles possessed. Axton quickly pointed this out to the others “Guys, stop here. There’s some sort of runic doorway there” When the others looked suitably confused, Axton explained to them that he was the only one who could see it due to his enhanced goggle vision (I know that sounds cheesy, be quiet.) and that the reason they couldn’t see it was because their eyesight wasn't acute enough.

The others seemed to agree on this and decided to set up camp for the night, campfire, tents and all. When Axton was about to investigate the doorway with his on-hoof book of runes, he saw Apple Bloom walking up to me while everyone else was around the campfire, trading stories and the such.

“Hey there, Apple Bloom. Something on your mind?” Axton asked, looking up from his book with a small smile on his face.
“Yeah, ah guess. Ah’m worried about y’, Axton.” She looked into Axton’s eyes with a mixture of concern and affection; doubt clouded her mind, along with millions of other worries. 

However, they soon disappeared as Axton nuzzled her affectionately and simply stated “Apple Bloom, there’s no need to worry. I mean honestly, you've seen what I can do. Anyway, I’ll always come back safe and sound, just to see your smile, ok?” He kissed her gently on the forehead, and moved back to the campfire. “Anyway, I’m pretty sure I’ll work out these runes in no time!”

The Next Morning, In the Mysterious Cave...

Axton woke up to the sound of birds chirping happily outside the cave, and wildlife scampering about outside. Scootaloo had fallen asleep aside the fire, with the slightly larger Defensive curled up beside her. Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom were already awake and had given out breakfast; boxed hay and cereals. After devouring their breakfasts, the small group turned to look at what Axton had said was the doorway.

Before he could get a word in edgeways, Scootaloo tried to charge the entrance of the tunnel, to find that a giant glowing hand had formed. This terrified Scootaloo, before she was abruptly shoved back by the humongous hand. After shoving her back, the hand faded into nothingness and promptly disappeared. After this sudden event had happened, a voice reverberated from the tunnel, the very same that Axton had heard in his dreams.

‘Only the machine heart may enter.’ With this statement, a blue beam shot from the tunnel and hit Axton, hitting the area of his heart, making him glow a gentle white glow. Everypony looked at him with a mixture of awe, curiosity and fear.
Looking at the tunnel, he hesitated before moving over and kissing Apple Bloom gently on the lips.

Axton looked back at the cave once more, and giving a final nod to the others, walked towards it, the floor lighting up runes on his very step.

> Depths of the Machine
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

As he walked down the tunnel, an eerie glow alighting at his feet, the clopping of his hooves made a sound, which echoed throughout area he was walking in, giving the tunnel a creepy setting.  Age old runes lit up at his feet, making it seem as though Axton was walking on a path of light.

After about ten minutes of walking within the deep tunnel, he came upon a door, quite like the one that appeared in his dream. However, unlike the door in his dream, which emanated a crystal white light, this door let off a lush forest green light; it calmed Axton and made him more composed before he stepped up to the door. Like before, in his dream, a voice came from the door. Unlike the voice of the mage though, this was a calming voice, a motherly voice; the huntress.
“Hello, young one. If you can answer my question, you may proceed. Tell me, what would happen if an item were to disappear?”

Axton thought for a few minutes about the question before answering confidently “If something were to disappear, it would disappear into nothingness, or thus happen to have not existed at all.”

The huntress’s voice laughed softly, before replying to him “Well, young one, you have a keen mind, of that I am sure! Please proceed to the next test of your wit.” With this, the green door opened, revealing a tunnel which walls were covered in emeralds. Resisting the urge to take one, Axton proceeded down the green crystal lit corridor. 

Before long, the colour of green faded, and the emeralds became sparser to see. He had come to the door of the berserker god, a red light emitting from the door which stood before him. Unlike the huntress’s door, which was made of polished wood and calmed the being of those who approached it, the berserker’s door was very different. It was made of rough basalt, and the face of a shouting, angry man adorned it. The red light that the door gave off emitted a hostile emotion; rage. The voice that answered his step sounded like grating granite, and was gruff.

“Hello, small one.” Giving a small bark of a laugh which made Axton shiver “Answer me this; what is the power of rage?” Although the giant was not present in his physical form, Axton could feel eye boring into him.

Axton already knew the answer to this and thus answered the berserker instantaneously “Rage has no real power” He mused for a bit before deciding to cheek the god a little “Or taste for that matter.” 

Axton stood there, a small smirk on his face. The god answered with a booming laugh before replying “Ha! I like your style, kid. With a mind like that, you will make a fine adult! Just don’t let your ego get too big, as there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Anyway, feel free to enter.” The door grinded open, with the sound of a rumbling earthquake.
Axton entered through the door to find a hoard of rubies and other red crystals adorned the walls. Once more he steeled himself not to take any; greed got one nowhere. 

As he continued to walk, Axton could feel the rage that had previously hung in the air like poisonous smog, fade. After a little while the stony corridor ended, and there was a small circular pad in front of a wall. Upon a small altar lay a tiny little knife.
Axton understood what he had to do. Grabbing the small knife with his magic, he shed a little amount of his blood upon the small centre of the pad, before casting a minor healing spell which sewed up his wound.
By now, the red light was completely gone, and once Axton had shed a little of his blood, bright white words started appearing on the walls. They read;

‘Welcome, Apparatus Cor, Machine Heart. It has been long since a guardian of the Cog-Link has came here with blood as pure as yours... Enter...”

With this, a bright white light enveloped Axton and teleported him to a central chamber, which he recognized as the one from his dreams. It was exactly the same. The runes adorned the walls, and machinery and cogs came out from the walls to meet him as he walked through the corridor which was connected to the chamber. Like in his dreams, the machines rumbled to life around him as he walked by; unlike the dream, they spoke to him in an old, repeating song:

One day, the machine heart shall rise,
With him, and his love, shall save the land,
To the doors, of the gods, we be openly prised,
And above, the dark gods, he shall stand.

He shall save this land from darkness and hate,
He will stand and ride on the open wind,
The powers of evil will dissipate,
And to his true power, he shall Ascend.

As the words were sung quietly to him, the runes on the walls pulsated, as if they had a life of their own; spirits of life that hummed with age old power.

Slowly and warily, he walked along the bronze metal corridor, the runes and the song giving him strength, until he came to a great door which was made of a shining gold material, which literally pulsated with power; it was what was most likely giving the runes their life, along with the old song. The door was that of a double door, and on each one was a large crystal which held a swirling mist of ancient knowledge. 

Standing on a rectangle of polished stone before the door, ‘reminds me of a giant doormat’ Axton thought, proceeding to  knock gently on the door.

Once more, the great voice of the Machine Mage God answered him “Hello, machine heart. You have no need to fear us. We already know you, but alas, you do not know us. Enter, and we will answer your questions.”

The great door swung open, revealing the three gods. The huntress was leaning against the wall, and upon seeing Axton, gave him a small nod and a soft smile, before returning to the reverie of her thoughts. The giant berserker god looked down at him before grinning wildly and knocking his newly acquired war hammer against a giant metal shield. Honestly, that guy sent shivers down Axton’s spine.

The last to greet him was the machine mage. He looked down with a fatherly smile upon Axton, making him feel safe, as if he was with his own father.

The silence lasted a few minutes before the machine mage gestured for Axton to sit upon a large bench, which Axton could literally lie on; it was that big. He simply chose to sit on his flank, his tail set out behind him. The three gods sat on a bench nearby, looking at him.

“I think introductions are in order, young Axton. Of course, we know about you, and no doubt you've seen us in your dreams, but you know not our names. Our Huntress is Alyna. No doubt you've seen she seems motherly, and she is rightly so. After all she is the forest mother, and thus keeps in contact with the creatures of the forest and of the night which have allied with us. These creatures consist of Timber Wolves, manticores, Ursas, Wereponies and Werewolves, Spriggans and other forest spirits and night spirits. She also keeps in touch with Luna herself, who is very fond of our Huntress.” He smiled at this; The Huntress had been around since Luna’s birth and had given her consul when she needed it, thus gaining her trust. 

The Mage continued “Next, is my other rather... enthusiastic, comrade. He is known to many as the God of Righteous Anger. His name is Hephaestus, aptly named after the great blacksmith due to his natural skill at being a blacksmith. He made the very benches we sit on, and the great doors that guard this chamber. As well as this, he governs the creatures of war, and keeps them in check. These beings consist of the Minotaur, Griffins, Oxen, Buffalo and Dragon, along with other spirits of rage, anger and grief. Many races like, the Buffalo, sometimes pray to him before stampeding or going on a conquest. Depending on what the conquest or action of war was, Hephaestus gets to say whether it can go ahead or not. He is the embodiment of war itself, in a way.” The Mage god explained this and frowned a little; he did not approve of conflict.

“The last god is me. I am the being of Justice, Peace and Law, also magic. My name is Abraham, although you may call me Abe. I govern the creatures of Magicka and Immortality. These consist of the Pony race; they each have their own kind of magic, even if some cannot perform it. The other races consist of Inferi, Alicorns, Elder Draconian races, which are a cross between a human and a dragon and the other spirits of Justice and Good. Like the other Gods, we answer to our allies, like Zeus and the other Greek gods of Good and Neutrality. You, Axton, are a Demigod of good. Your Demigod name is Cogniitus. You represent the heart of our machine core, and possess a great magic hidden within you, which no doubt you have seen with thine own eyes. When the time comes to sacrifice yourself for the good of this universe, only your intentions shall decide on whether or not you shall survive. For now we bestow upon you our blessing, and some gifts.”

The Huntress, Alyna, walked forward and knelt down to be on Axton’s Level. She gave him a smile, reminding him of his mother. Her voice was warm and reminded Axton of the whispering of tree branches “Hello, Axton. My gift is the Hunter’s Robe. It is a set of magically enchanted robe that comes complete with hood. It shall keep you hidden and silent, should you wish to wear it. To make it work, all you have to do is pull up the hood. Once you have done this, the robes make you nigh on invisible, and thine hoof steps shall be silent. I bless you with the gift of the forest.” With this, she walked back to her seat on the other side of the room, taking a seat while a small bird appeared and perched on her shoulder. Axton was clothed in the robes, with his hood down to make him visible.

Next up was the berserker god, Hephaestus. His footsteps clanked heavily on the floor, his war armor shifting noisily as he walked. He knelt nearby Axton and opened his hand revealing a set of pony type gauntlets, exactly his size. Hephaestus quickly explained “These, are the gauntlets of The Minotaurian Badlands. They bestow the wielder immeasurable strength and speed. May they bring you many a glorious battle!” He grinned madly and clunked in his armor back to his overly sized bench before sitting down, producing a whetstone and beginning the task of sharpening the broadsword which had previously hung from his back.

Last but not least, Abraham walked up to him; he didn't make a sound while he walked, he only had small amounts of light coming of his being while he knelt down, smiled proudly and placed a  caring hand  upon the side of Axton’s head. “You are one the many descendants of the Cogniitus bloodline, and I am proud to call you my descendant. With this I give you the circlet of Cogniitus. You will find it has many uses; use them well, my child.” Axton could swear he saw a small crystalline tear roll down that masked metal face. With the final gift given, the three gods joined in the middle of the chamber, standing in a line by the giant diamond that floated upon the pedestal in the center of the chamber. It gave off a bright light and showed Axton in his gifts. The gauntlets glowed slightly, giving a steel sheen to Axton’s coat, quite like the gauntlets themselves which gleamed in the light. The robes covered Axton’s body, fitting snugly upon him. The robes were of a grey thundercloud colour, with bronze-gold trim upon them. They made Axton look like some kind of guardian, which in a way, he was. Finally there was the circlet upon his head. It was made of shining silver, with jets embedded within it. Overall, Axton stood dressed from head to hoof in the gifts that had been given to him by the gods; he looked like a true demigod now.

“Now, Cogniitus. Go forth and bring good and happiness to this land. Walk through the Light Crystal, and you shall be teleported to your friends. Your gear will be unequipped and teleported to your saddlebag.” Abraham gave Axton a small gesture to let him enter the crystal.

As he walked into the crystal, which let him meld into it easily, he was bathed in a bright white light before being teleported. Before he left he heard Abraham’s words “Stay true to the Machine, Axton, and nothing will go wrong.”


> The Return
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The blinding light finally ceased, and Axton found himself upon the floor of the cavern outside of the invisible light door in which he and only he had walked through. Of course, this flashy entrance warranted a yelp from a certain Apple family filly that happened to be sleeping nearby. Surprised, to say the least, Apple Bloom flew about six feet in the air with a look of terror on her face, before landing on her flank. At least, by then she had a surprised look on her face. Axton chuckled a little, before grabbing her and giving her a small hug; no words were needed, he guessed he had been gone at least a day, and Apple Bloom looked as if she hadn’t seen him in an eternity. Her cheeks were stained were tears, probably from worry Axton guessed, and her mane was a bit messy, the stray hair sticking out of it. Yet in Axton’s eyes, she still looked beautiful.

“A-Axton, ah missed y’ ” She sniffled, her eyes twinkling “Y’all alright?”  She hugged him in a bone-crushing hug, before she noticed him gasping for air. She quickly let him go, with a small blush on her cheeks.

“I’m alright; I’ll tell you what happened when we get the others round the campfire. Anything happen while I was gone?” Axton inquired with an open mind; the sudden teleportation from the Chamber of the Gods had left him rejuvenated, and wide awake. His eyes had also taken an odd change; instead of their usual colour, they were now a steel grey; the colour of his aura.

Walking up to the campfire, they were met by Scootaloo, who was walking very close to Defensive. They seemed to walk together with a type of unity. Upon seeing Axton, Defensive gave a sheepish grin and uttered “Not a word, cogs, not a word.” 
Axton rolled his eyes; ‘cogs’ was the new nickname Defensive had called Axton a lot round the house, rather like a codename. In a likewise manner, Axton had taken to calling Defensive ‘fangs’, due to the pointy half-dragon canines that Defensive had. 


When the entire group had gathered round the campfire or what remained of it, Axton had sat down, and the others were looking at him expectantly. He spoke up “All right, what I’m about to tell you does not go beyond this cave, ok?” When they all agreed, he continued and proceeded to tell them about what had conspired within the chamber, and the corridors that lead to it. Silence reigned in the cave for what seemed like hours, the story clearly having an effect upon everypony there. Emotions on the others faces ranged from awe and wonder, to fear and a little confusion. 

Dark was the first one to speak “So is that what that saddlebag over there’s for?” He motioned to a saddlebag which lay by the entrance to Axton and Defensive’s tent. The bag was a steel grey colour, with a bronze-gold secondary outline which ran along the edges of the bag. The clasp was made of a familiar looking bronze metal which was in the shape of a cog. “We all tried opening it, even Defensive, but the thing wouldn’t budge. From what you’ve told us, you can probably open it.” 

Axton walked over to the saddlebag that lay beside his tent, next to his other two. Curiosity overcame him, and he reached towards the saddlebag, to find all his gear in there. Along with it, came a little note; it read ‘Good thing we enchanted this, your friend Dark is a curious one.’ 

He let out a little chuckle before closing the saddlebag. These items would definitely come in handy later. Looking back at the camp, he nodded in thought to himself ‘So, now what?’

Before long, the camp, and the tents that came with it had been packed away, and the group of six were ready to move out of the cave and go back to Ponyville.  As the six made their way towards Sweet Apple Acres, they heard Applejack calling “Apple Bloom! Ah swear to Celestia, if somethin’ has happened to her, ah’ll never forgive mahself!” 

At Applejack’s calling, Apple Bloom piped up “Over here, sis! Don’t worry, we’re all ok.” Applejack turned towards the sound, and before long, came rushing through the fields towards them.

Upon reaching them, she came up to her little sister with a small frown on her face, and used her back legs to get Apple Bloom on her back, before walking off, lecturing her “Apple Bloom, ya are in SO much trouble.  Granny Smith was worried sick, and don’t get me started on Big Mac! Ya are comin’ with me, young lady!” Apple Bloom sat helplessly on Applejack’s back, squirming helplessly and giving the odd whine.

Axton simply looked bemused at this sudden turn of events, before giving Apple Bloom a small smile and a wave as if to say ‘See you later!’ 

At this, Apple Bloom stopped squirming and gave Axton a small wink before the two sisters were out of sight. 

Axton turned towards the rest of the group and shrugged before saying “All right, it’s probably best if you get yourselves home for some rest and a wash. We’ll meet up again at the clubhouse ok? Dark, as you don’t know where the clubhouse is, we’ll come pick you up in the afternoon.” Fortunately, the others couldn’t spot the small heat in his cheeks.

Dark nodded before quickly filling in Axton on his address. Funnily enough, as soon as he had told them, he rushed off towards Ponyville. ‘Honestly’ Axton thought to himself ‘Is there no end to his energy? He’d been camping out for a day, trekked miles and STILL has boundless energy’.

Sweetie Belle soon left the others as she told them, with a small shudder “Need to get the dirt off of my hooves; otherwise Rarity will throw a fit.” With that, she left the group, along with Scootaloo, who gave Defensive a small kiss on the cheek before running off down the street, presumably towards where she lived.

Axton and Defensive returned to Axton’s house shortly, before washing. They received small “humph, kids these days!” from Axton’s mother, which warranted a small chuckle from Axton father. Before long, the two had gone upstairs to generally chat about things.

Axton’s room, a few hours after returning (13:50)

“So, you and Scoots, huh?” Axton questioned looking across at Defensive with a smirk.

“Yeah, we kinda had a thing for each other from the get go” Defensive said with a small redness in his cheeks.
“All right, whatever you say” Axton jibed at Defensive a little before going to the door of the room “I’m gonna do a bit of research on all this ‘machine heart and the machine gods’ stuff, so I’ll catch you later, ok?”

Defensive nodded “All right, tell me if anything comes up, let me know if you need any help” Axton nodded to Defensive, a sign of appreciation, before going out of the door to their room and out of the house.

Ponyville Library, 5minutes later...

Axton walked into the library, the earthy scent of books and tree bark filling his nostrils. He always felt calm here, for some reason. Maybe it was the feeling of tranquillity he got by being around so much knowledge, or whether it was just him. However, before he could put anymore thought to it, a young dragon poked his head in his face.

“Hey, Axton! Watcha doing here?” Spike had his face right up in the colt’s face, an eyebrow raised. Of course, this surprised said colt, making him fly about six feet in the air and unceremoniously falling flat on his flank. After a few minutes, Axton composed himself once more and stood up back on his hooves to reply.

“I need to find a book on ancient Equestrian history and Gods.” Axton replied evenly “Have you got one?”

Axton had met Spike after he had moved into Ponyville, during the Hearts and Hooves day project. He took a liking to the baby dragon’s eagerness to help, and his kindness. He also found it hilarious that Spike had a crush on Rarity, but only gave the odd jibe to Spike, in which Spike would end up flushing a bright crimson.

“Ancient Equestrian history and Gods...” Spike browsed the bookcases, and soon came across the book he was looking for “Ah! Ancient Equestria; A time of Gods and Magic. That sound good?” Spike called down from upon a rather large step ladder.

“That sounds perfect. Thanks Spike!” Axton grabbed the book with his magical grip, causing Spike to fall from his step ladder. He wasn’t particularly hurt, but a couple of books comically fell from above and knocked him on his head, making his eyes roll around in his head.

Satisfied from the book, Axton didn’t notice this and walked towards another side of the library, setting the book down upon a small reading desk. He read devotedly through the pages, before somepony interrupted his thoughts. 

“My, yer jus’ like Twi when she gets into a book.” Applejack stated with a small snicker from beside him. This made Axton jump a little.

“Gah! Don’t sneak up on me like that!” Axton exclaimed, before noticing it was Applejack, and replying hurriedly “You’re not mad at me are you, Y’know, for camping out for a day with possible dangers to Apple Bloom?”

Applejack waited until Axton had finished before saying “Heh, actually I was gonna thank y’ fer not getting Apple Bloom hurt. Ah was also wonderin’ whether y’ wanted t’ come to the barn raisin’ that’s goin’ on tomorrah. We don’t normally use magic, but the rest of the crusades will be there so ah was wonderin’ if y’ wanted to.” She gave a small lopsided smile, as Axton stammered for an answer.

“Oh, yeah! I would love to help out at the barn and see Apple Bloom- er; I mean help out at the barn in general, yeah Haha...” Axton rubbed his mane with his hoof and chuckled nervously.

“Ah’ll take that as a yes. Be at the barn at seven in th’ mornin’ alright?” Applejack nodded before Axton could give an answer. She walked off and had a small thought before chuckling to herself ‘Apple Bloom sure knows how t’ pick ‘em’.





> Hard Work and an Old Friend
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The sun rose over Equestria once more, and the songbirds sung their melody which awoke the other residents of Ponyville to another sunny day in town. Axton had awoke and looked at the small alarm clock he had made, seeing that it read 6:30, he dashed out of his bedroom door to get ready for the day, frantic not to be late. After hurriedly washing himself, he went to get some of his workers overalls which were slightly burnt from working in the forge under the house. Securing his trademark goggles before walking to the door, to find Defensive already sitting there. From the small bubble increasing and decreasing in size that was coming from his nose, Axton could tell that his friend had fallen asleep.

To solve the problem, he decided to levitate Defensive out of the door with him, and ran to Sweet Apple Acres at full pelt.
Half an hour later at Sweet Apple Acres...

Axton ran up to the farm, with Defensive STILL in his magic grip. ‘Honestly, he sleeps like a boulder!’ Axton thought irately. He was greeted by Applejack, who looked a little confused as to why he had a colt in his magical grip.

“Uh, Axton? Why is your friend in a magi-grip-thingy?” She question with a small raised eyebrows, looking at the small twitching Draco-colt. 

Axton gave a lopsided grin before replying “He told me yesterday that he wanted to help out, which is why he’s wearing a set of my forge overalls. Knowing him, he woke up extremely early, started waiting for me by the door and fell asleep.”
Applejack gave a small chuckle as Axton lowered Defensive onto the ground, still asleep. 

“Well then, pardner, I’ll just wake him up then!” Applejack went to go wake Defensive up, unknowing of the inevitable. Defensive, who had spent a large portion of his life time living in a cave, was used to predators attacking him while he slept, and as he woke with a small “Whuh?” He gave a explosive uppercut, acting on his instincts, with a bellow to Applejack’s lower jaw who stumbled back slightly dazed.

Of course, when he had realized what he had done, his eyes widened like saucers, and he started running for the hills, with Applejack on his tail.

“Come back here, ya varmint! No one hits me in th’ face like that an’ gets away with it!” Applejack was running full pelt after Defensive, who was running as fast as his small hooves would carry him.

Watching the scene unfold, Axton had to hold on to a fencepost to stop himself from collapsing in laughter. As he walked to the barn, still chuckling to himself.

Axton walked into the barn houses kitchen, to be greeted by the CMC (minus Defensive, who was still being chased by Applejack), Granny Smith and Big Macintosh. 

“Hey there, youngin’! How yer doin’ this mornin’?” Granny Smith slowly nodded her head to Axton “You ready ter get ter work?”

“That I am. Not sure Applejack is ready yet though” Axton laughed a little to himself as he recounted the tale of what happened at the entrance to the farm. This of course, got a small, throaty chuckle from Granny Smith and a booming but low laugh from Big Mac. The three fillies had burst into a fit of giggles, whereas Dark was just shaking his head and smiling.
Big Mac, who rarely spoke, decided to have a small input “She’ll probably hogtie him soon enough. Ah know that she can get in a foul temper when sucker punched.” 

As if on cue, Applejack burst through the door to the kitchen, with said hogtied Draco-colt on her back, and she had an air of satisfaction in her. Defensive however, was extremely displeased, and let out a frustrated ‘mmmph!’ through the makeshift gag that covered his mouth, sending a fresh wave of laughter.

After the laughter had died down, Axton got Defensive in a small magical grip, and cut through the rope with a few well aimed magic shards. As the rope fell to the floor, and the gag was taken out, Defensive gasped in air, before flushing with embarrassment, his eyes to the floor.

To comfort him, Scootaloo came up to him and gave him a small peck on the cheek before she punched him lightly on the shoulder. They both blushed a deep crimson before Applejack noisily cleared her throat. 

“All right, everypony! Let’s get t’ work!” Applejack stomped her hoof resolutely, and the small group nodded, donning the hard hats that were conveniently placed on the table.

Everypony toiled at their assigned tasks, long into the sweltering heat that was bearing down upon everypony. Apple Bloom and Axton worked on cutting down and reattaching the joints and nailing them down, Sweetie Belle helped organize the main work effort with Granny Smith, Dark recycled the wood with Applejack and Big Macintosh pulled up the beams on a pulley that he attached to a large metal collar that went round his neck. The barn was nearly done, and everypony put in their best efforts to paint the barn, bright and bold. Of course, Defensive excelled at this, due to his powerful wings being able to take him up and paint the higher reaches of the barn.

After many hours of tiring and excessive work, the Apple Family barn was complete, along with a few personal touches. Axton, with a few metals, was able to make small metal supports upon the bottom of the barns foundations, making it stronger, just in case a storm hit. Dark had decorated the interior a little and made a small lift system to get to the top of the barn, where the tools were kept, which consisted of a small platform and, upon pulling a rope, the platform would lift steadily up to the barns attic. Scootaloo and Apple Bloom had added a lot of artwork to the inside of the barn. Defensive, with more of the metal supports that had been on site, had hoisted them with his large amount of strength, to the top of the barn’s roof, where they were drilled into place by Axton, who held the large anchor bolts in his magic, and put them into the metal and woodwork to help keep the humongous supports in place.

As the group of ponies looked upon their handiwork with pride, they found that day was coming to a close. They each said their farewells, before venturing off back home for the night, as the day had been a tough one, and everypony needed their rest.

Axton and Defensive reached their home and went inside, to find a scroll on the side. The seal of the scroll was what looked like a small sapphire, surrounded by an intricate design. Axton immediately recognized it as a letter from Iris Sapphire, his pen pal. He decided to read it once Defensive had gone upstairs, turning to the lectern that stood by a large bookshelf within a more secluded part of the house. Fortunately, the house was well lit so there was no need for a secondary light.

As he opened the scroll, he read;

To Axton,
How have you been doing as of late? We’ve been doing great, due to our moving plans being forwarded! We’ll probably be by tomorrow, and our house apparently nearby Sugarcube corner. Can you believe it? Just imagine, being able to walk out your doorstep and being able to buy a cupcake within five minutes of walking. Apparently, according to dad, it was going on the cheap due to ‘loud party noises’. I can’t wait to see you again; it’s been very long, hasn’t it? When was the last time that we hung out? Anyway, I’m sure you will tell me, you’re memory is like that of a turtles, am I right? I still haven’t found my Cutie Mark yet, but a friend of mine, Babs Seed, was part of this little organisation called the Cutie Mark Crusaders. Have you heard of them? You’re probably in them, I mean, last time we met you didn’t have your Cutie Mark anyway. Not that that’s a bad thing, it gives you time to think what your special talent is, right?
Your Good Friend,
Iris Sapphire

As Axton slept quietly that night, and silence reigned as the night time of Equestria began.

> A Deathly Nightmare
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton’s Mind, the Dreamscape.

Axton stood up slowly, to find himself in a dark, dank and dimly lit chamber. As he walked around this chamber, he examined the scene that he was in, looking up at the light sources that seemed to be torches. He took a step back, feeling queasy as he saw what the torches were made from. They were made from merged skulls, pony and other creatures alike, with the skulls upside-down so that tar could be held in the top, or at least he hoped it was tar. The tar-like substance was set alight, which cast a dim and foreboding glow around the room when set alight within the many skull torches.

Fortunately, the floor was not made out of skeletal parts, but rather a dark and murky dark type of glass layering, with jet black gemstones beneath the seemingly solid floor. Inside said gemstones, a dark purple mist swirled contained by their crystalline cages; the mist called out to Axton, almost mesmerizing him as they shrieked with voices of the tortured inside his mind. He broke away from the sinister gems before stumbling back a little and falling on his flank. After a few minutes, he composed himself, before further investigating the malicious room. He pressed a small button that he found on the wall. With a grating scream, a corridor revealed itself to him. The corridor had spider webs in every corner, and furiously burning braziers crafted of even more bones lit the corridor as he continued his way down this reincarnation of darkness that he was experiencing.  

Finally, he reached the end of the corridor, where a seemingly glowing black light was glowing upon the head of a carved monstrosity of a being. It had the head of pony, but had an assortment of other body types upon its head. This being reeked of some sort of dark magic; whatever types of magic this being gave off, made Axton’s stomach churn. As the door turned open and Axton walked into what seemed to be a rocky pathway. He walked along the pathway, taking in the scene around him. Lava fell from small cracks in the rock chambers walls, and the temperature was stifling; was he in Tartarus?

He continued observing the scene, only to find his gaze drawn to a bipedal dark being that possessed a towering height within the room, his demonic form sitting carelessly upon a throne of massacred bodies that had been melded together so they were literally unrecognizable. This demonic being was clad in obsidian black-purple armor, which emitted a mysterious and clouded shadowy mist. Axton walked towards the being, who, when noticing him, turned his coal red eyes towards Axton; the eyes bore into the very depths of Axton’s soul, making him involuntarily shiver.

“So, this is the Machine heart... Interesting. What did Abraham see in you, a puny colt?” The demon’s voice was grating and condescending as he looked down upon Axton, who now glared with an intense ferocity at the demon “Ah, potentially unlimited magic, I see... Undying spirit, strong heart. Pure. Soul. Bah!” The demon hawked into the lava below, his blue spit sizzling in the fiery depths of the chamber; He spat those words as they disgusted him.

“I’m not scared of you demon! You’re nothing but a reincarnation of darkness, a plague to all things good!” Axton spat at the demon with venom in his voice; anger bubbled away inside him due to this monster carelessly insulting his gods. 

“Listen to me, child. In the coming times, there will be a plague of darkness and the kingdom of Equestria shall crumble under the mighty legions of the undead. Understand this. Not even the Machine Heart can stand against the might of my legions. No one can against the legions of the Mortem Domini!” Domini roared the last words, and as they escaped his ravenous maw, the earth seemed to shake under the demon’s anger, wailing in pain that his very presence caused.

“No.” A calm voice came from behind Axton, and turning around, he saw that the three machine gods stood behind Axton, their eyes glowing brighter than ever. Abraham stood directly behind Axton and looked down to give the colt a reassuring smile “We stand as one, and Axton’s magic, when unleashed, will banish you once more. Not even you can begin to comprehend what this child can do. He is more powerful than you think, Mortem.”

“HA! You think a mere colt can stop me? When I rise, the lands shall be drowned in my darkness and not even you, nor shall your pathetic magic of Law stop me. No, I will rise once more. Then you will all regret banishing me from Olympus in the first place. You and ALL the other gods!” Domini’s eyes were glowing a bright red now, the idea of revenge making them glow greedily.

“That will not be so, Mortem. You boast of your hoards of the undead, while we have the very creatures that made up this land in the first place. Not even the magic of the dead can stand up to the essence of creation itself. I doubt even any of us could achieve such a feat with your useless excuse of Necromancy that you possess.” The gods nodded at Abraham’s words, agreeing with him that any being that manipulates the dead so easily would be banished and vanquished by the forces of good.

“I will talk no further with you, fools. Now be gone from mine chambers!” With a sweep of the demon’s hand, Axton found himself among the gods within their metallic and safe chamber once more.

“I’m sorry you had to see that, Axton. As he said, that was Mortem Domini. He is a greater demon of death and commands his legion of the undead, which, like him, have been dormant in the very depths of Tartarus. He is a being of Darkness, a Death Lord as you will, who despises living creatures. But you need not have any fear for when the time comes, and you must fulfil your destiny, good will ultimately triumph over evil. Now, rest for what is left of tonight and get some rest.”  Abraham smiled as Axton faded and left the dreamscape to fall asleep within a dream of his own. He turned to the other two gods.

“So” Hephaestus growled “You think Mortem is coming back? If he is, why rest our fate on the colt?” The berserker god was itching for an answer as he shifted from one hulking foot to another.

“The reason I trust him” Abraham replied levelly “is because he holds a great power within him, one I have not seen in many millennia. The prophecy foretold that he would win against Mortem. I only hope that this prophecy speaks the truth for if it does not... we are all doomed to succumb to the darkness.” He spoke gravely, but he was not deterred; he had faith in this pony child, and deep down, he knew that Axton would not fail. He only hoped the boy would not die in the process of trying to save Equestria.

> Catching up
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton woke up to another beautiful day in Ponyville, the sun shining down upon the houses, streets and rooftops, wrapping them in its warm embrace. After he had gotten ready, once again making his unkempt mane a little better than it was, he strolled downstairs to find it barged open by a gray pegasus. The pegasus had a blonde mane and after she got up, placed a letter on the table.

She tilted her head to the side, before looking at Axton “Sorry about the entrance, I just don’t know what went wrong! Anyway, got your post here. Hey are you alright?” The pegasus looked worriedly at him, wondering why he wore a look of indecision on his face.

Axton looked at this gray pegasus, highly confused. Many thoughts were going through his head, such as ‘How does she focus her eyes if they’re all...derpy? It would explain the way she crashed through the door. Luckily nothing’s broken. Why is her tongue sticking out of the side of her mouth? That sheer amount of derp has me addled...’ when he finally noticed that the pegasus was talking to him, he snapped out of his reverie and replied.

“Sorry, heh, I kinda zone out sometimes. I didn't catch your name; by the way, what was it?” Axton asked, still trying to comprehend the fact that this mare’s eyes could go in completely different directions. 

“Oh, my name is Derpy Hooves! You can call me Derpy, though. A- wait. Is that... a MUFFIN?” the mare’s eyes little up as she gazed longingly at the blueberry muffin on the breakfast table. 

Axton gave a small chuckle, before laughing and replying “Yes, that is a muffin. As you delivered my mail, feel free to take it, if you wish.” Axton gave a small smile to Derpy, who rose up in the air in a giant gasp before zooming at full speed towards the muffin, devouring it and leaving not a crumb on the wrapper. She gave him a bone crushing hug before yelling “Bye, new awesome friend!” and flying out the door with her mail bag and hat.

Axton watched her go with a mixture of confusion and gladness on his mind, but quickly dismissed it as he began to read the letter.

Dear Axton,
I have finally reached Ponyville, so I and my father have moved into our new home! Feel free to visit as there is no doubt that we will have finished unpacking by the time this letter arrives. I also heard that there is a young performer’s talent show going on, and I wondered whether or not you wanted to perform a duet singing piece with me. Anyhow, I’ll leave that to be your decision as I already have the song. You don’t have to worry about learning the lyrics as we both know the song, and trust me when I say it’s a good one! I was also wondering whether or not you could show me around Ponyville, and maybe let me meet some of your friends, as we both know that I never really had many, apart from you.

From,
Iris Sapphire


Axton finished reading the letter, and rushed upstairs to get ready for another day, this time with an old friend by his side.

Twenty minutes later...

The CMC had assembled and were on their way to Iris’s house. Questions were constantly asked about Iris, and Axton had to answer a lot of them, each one a good question, but nonetheless annoying; couldn’t they just talk to her when the group got there?
“So” Scootaloo asked “What’s she like? She an egghead, or a cool pony? Pegasus, Earth Pony or Unicorn? C’mon tell me!” This earned a small disapproving look from Sweetie Belle, who chided Scootaloo.

“Now now, Scoots, stop bothering him, I’m sure you will get your answers in due time.” Sweetie gave a small swish of her mane, before the group carried on towards the house.

Reaching their destination, Axton gave a small knock on the door, which was answered by a middle aged stallion. The stallion had a beard, a fairly average hairstyle and wore a pair of studious looking glasses. As well as this, he wore a small waistcoat which had small pouches that Axton guessed to be a gem fragment, which was the Sapphire family business; gem crafting.

“Hey there, kids. So, is this a bob-a-job project? If so, I have to say that we already bought out the last project so we’re not that wealthy in the project funds.” Giving a small chuckle he shook his head at his little joke. However when he noticed Axton, he gave a small gasp “Ah, you’re Axel Wrench’s kid aren't you? I’ll go get Iris, if that’s the case, maybe you can accompany her on her first day of school. Oh, and by the way, my name is Gleaming Sapphire, glad to make your acquaintance.” He hoof bumped Axton and nodded towards the rest, before going to get his daughter.

The group saw Iris coming down the stairs and smiled when they saw her; ready to get going to school so they could spend the time after school planning for the upcoming talent show. However, Dark was captivated by this beauty that stood in front of him. Her coat was that of the purest arctic white and it gleamed in the light. Her small Daring-Do custom colour jacket fit in with the azure blue colour of her mane. Speaking of which, her mane consisted of two colors. As well as the azure blue, her mane had an icy blue streak going through it, which matched the colors of her tail. To him, Iris was the very picture of beauty.
Iris noticed that Dark was looking at her with hearts in his eyes, and blushed as she hid behind her mane. She completed walking down the final few steps, and smiled when she saw Axton.

“Long time no see! Good to see you again. It’s also good to see you have so many friends!” She hoof-bumped Axton, before turning to the rest of the group “As you most likely already know, my name is Iris Sapphire. What are you called?” She gave a small nod to the rest of the group indicating that it was their turn to speak.

“Mah name is Apple Bloom. Ah’m Axton’s fillyfriend” She blushed little to herself before regaining her composure “This is Scootaloo, Defensive and Sweetie Belle. Oh yeah, and this is-“Apple Bloom was cut off as Dark rushed up and shook her hoof vigorously.

“My name is Darkmoon’s Crescent, but you can call me Dark. And might I say, you look stunning” He gave a small grin, his eyes sparkling.

Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo and Apple Bloom giggled as Iris blushed a deep scarlet colour. As the now group of eight walked off to Ponyville schoolhouse, Iris thought ‘Well, he IS quite handsome...’










> New Faces
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Another day at Ponyville schoolhouse had commenced, and Cheerilee had just entered the classroom, which was now occupied by a larger number of chairs which was due to so many new ponies coming into town. Cheerilee had decided to introduce each one of them as they entered on their own accord.

“Alright class, I would like you to welcome quite a few new students to our class. First off, let’s welcome Jackhammer.” A dark grey colt had entered the room. He was quite burly, and had forest green eyes. His cutie mark was a grey fist which was surrounded by what looked like an explosion. The gaze that he gave off was silent and calculating as he assessed everypony in the class, giving the odd snort. All in all, he seemed like a nasty piece of work. He took a seat along the back row next to Diamond Tiara, who was grinning maliciously.

“Another student has come here all the way from the Griffin Empires. His name is Lightning Bolt. Come in, please.” A fearsome looking griffin fledgling came into the room. From what Axton could observe, this griffin was aptly named due to the lightning bolt shaped scar that was etched into his cheek. His feathers were the average colour for a griffin, with only two minor details standing out on his body (minus the scar). His eyes, instead of being the usual gold-yellow colour, were a crimson red colour, like that of a small blood riddled pond. Not only were those features weird, the tips of his wings tinged black,  looking like dark tendrils that seemed to stain his feathers. He sat in the chair which resided in the darkest corner of the classroom, which happened to be on Silver Spoon’s left. Silver Spoon gave Bolt a small grin, which he returned.

“And now for our final new student, for now, I would like to introduce to you Iris Sapphire, who has come all the way from Manehatten!” Cheerilee nodded towards the door, but when finding that nopony came through, she spoke in a softer tone “There’s no need to be shy now, no one in here is all that mean.”

Iris however, was incredibly shy in front of ponies she didn’t particularly know and thus refused to come through the door. Dark, decided to do something and spoke up.

“Uh, miss? I know Iris; I could speak to her if you want.” Dark mentioned, his eyes lighting up at the thought of earning some brownie points with Iris. 

“That’d be a great idea, Dark. Alright, you are excused so you may talk to Iris, and hopefully convince her. We will start the lesson now, so feel free to start working as soon as you get back in here, ok?”

“Yes, miss.” Dark nodded and walked out of the classroom, determined to convince Iris.

Outside the classroom...

“Hey, Iris. You alright?” Dark gave a small smile to Iris, who was sitting outside the door. She looked up, a little spark of happiness glinting in her eyes.

“Yeah, I just-“She broke off from her sentence, bursting into tears. When she had calmed down a little she continued speaking; however, tears still rolled silently down her cheeks “I- apart from Axton, I don’t have any friends in there, do I?”

“That’s absolute rubbish. I like you.” Dark gave a small lopsided grin as he edged closer towards Iris, who now had a deep blush on her face “Anyway” he continued “If Axton thinks you’re ok, then the rest of us have no reason not to like you, right?” 

“I... I guess.” Iris had stopped crying now, and looked towards Dark with gratitude “Thanks, Dark. What you said means a lot to me.” With that, she went up to Dark and gave him a small kiss on the cheek, before walking confidently into the classroom to take her seat.

Meanwhile, Dark just stood there like a statue. After a while, he broke out of his ‘paralysis’ and cheered quietly to himself.


A couple of hours later, at the CMC clubhouse


“Ok. So what are we gonna do for this ‘Ponyville Talent Show’?” Dark inquired, his curiosity piqued about the 320 bit prize money.

“Well, I and Axton have a good song that we’re gonna sing. I have an idea though. What we could do, is each tryout in the talent show, that way we can split the money if any of us win. Does that sound good?” Iris smiled as she saw the others nodding in agreement to her plan which she explained to them.

“All right, let’s get to work practising!” Defensive nodded to Scootaloo, who ran off to rehearse for their performance.
“We’ll work on the sets then, ok?” Dark nodded to Apple Bloom who agreed.

“ We’ll make sure these sets looks the best!” Apple Bloom nodded before giving Axton a quick kiss on the cheek before going out of the clubhouse with Dark so they could get to work on both Axton and Iris’ set. Not only that, they had to gather equipment for Defensive and Scootaloo’s performance, so their work was cut out for them.

This left Iris and Axton in the clubhouse to practice their song for the talent show tomorrow, and also have a little chat.
“So, before we start practicing the song, can I have a little catch up on what’s happened lately?” Axton asked curiously.
“Well, first off we sold the store in Manehatten as Dad had earned enough money to retire and that meant we could move to Ponyville. Of course, I kept writing from time to time as we were mainly busy packing for our move to where we live now. Before we went though, I saw another group of fillies hanging out nearby the moving van. I went to talk to them and one of them spotted me. She introduced me to the rest of her group, explaining she was called Babs Seed, part of something called the Cutie Mark Crusaders, or the CMC for short. I remember her saying I should check up with Apple Bloom in Ponyville to become a member, but it seems I already have that covered. Speaking of Apple Bloom, How long have you two been going out with each other? It’s kinda cute.” She gave a giggle when she saw Axton blushing fiercely.

“Uh, about two months, I guess. Anyway, what about you and Dark? I saw you were giving him a good look over, eh?” Axton chuckled as Iris’s cheeks turned a deep shade of red, which contrasted against the rest of her body.

“Well... he is kinda cute I guess. I wanted to ask your advice on what kind of things he liked. Y’know, so I could get to know him a little better.” She still had a small light pink twinge on her cheeks as she said this, making Axton brow raise a little.
“Well, he likes the Daring Do novels; he also likes other adventure books. Pretty much anything to do with adventuring or medieval times will do.” Axton mentioned “Just don’t try to make him get involved in anything that consists of tragedies or horror stories, he hates that kind of stuff” Axton added, remembering the time that Apple Bloom had told him about, telling Iris about the events that Apple Bloom filled him in on. Basically, when Axton was in the Chamber of the Gods, Scootaloo had started telling horror stories. Long story short, Dark ended up setting himself on fire after he had jumped when receiving a scare from Defensive who had sneaked up from behind. Fortunately, he knew a healing spell, so Dark was ok due to his ability to heal himself.

“Nice, thanks Axton. So, how about we get to practicing?” Iris asked, ready to start rehearsing for the upcoming talent show (after she had stopped laughing).

> Talented
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

The night had come for the big performances at the Ponyville Talent Show, and the stage was set for the multitude of performances from the younger participants. The judges sat ready in their seats, looking with calculating glances at the drawn curtain, ready for the first performance.

The judge’s panel consisted of a tough crowd of judges. On the far left was an Earth Pony going by the name of Sky Quill, who had been ten years living in the business of judging and such activities that required a judge (like contests). He had seen many things in his ten years as a competition judge, and thus was extremely hard to impress. Next, was a Pegasus who was called Lightning Storm, who had spent quite a few years as a judge, and many years before that overseeing Cloudsdale operations and work sites which meant he had a lot of experience on giving orders and also possessed an amazing judge of character.
The third judge was known as Keen Sights, and was fairly old. However, she had a wit that was as sharp as any sword and this gave her an easy time at judging people. Unfortunately, she was the shrewdest Unicorn a pony could meet and showed it by judging harshly; it was nigh on impossible to impress her. The final judge was none other than Mayor Mare, and although she was fair with her verdicts, she had seen a lot in her time so the participants would have a fairly time to impress her.

As the show was signaled to start, Cheerilee came on stage to announce the start of the talent show.
“Welcome mares and gentlecolts, one and all to the Young Performers Talent Show!” Cheerilee announced, greeting the audience with a low bow “Tonight’s performers will perform their best for our panel of judges and shall receive varied comments. However, only one performance will win the ultimate prize money of an outstanding three hundred and twenty bits! I wish luck to all the performers in tonight’s show. Without further ado, let the show commence with our first performance; Defensive Flight and Scootaloo!”

Cheerilee walked offstage, and the red velvet curtains fell about like red waves to reveal the stage. The stage itself was magnificent, in its own unique way. The colors of the background stage colors were that of a blue and orange clash, with a pure white lightning bolt splitting the display into the two colors. On the stage stood a ramp, which was a blue colour with a lightning bolt of red on it. Trapeze ropes were set way up on high within the stages vicinity, promising the act of acrobatics.

All of a sudden, smoke started trailing onto the stage, and low pitched rock music was playing in the background, giving an air of tension to the stage. All of a sudden, Scootaloo zoomed up the ramp, gaining a huge amount of height in her ramp jump, before doing a triple back flip in the air before landing. She landed on all four wheels making the crowd go wild. After Scootaloo had zoomed offstage for her next move, Defensive had gotten up on the trapeze platforms, and the audience gasped; his wings were tied shut, basically disallowing him flight. As he jumped off the platform towards the first trapeze, the audience watched in awe as he performed a multitude of twists and flips in midair before catching the trapeze, and swinging off to the other side, earning an uproarious cheer from the crowd. 

The final move was now ready, and Scootaloo sped up the ramp for the final jump, the crowd watching with eager eyes. As Scootaloo soared through the air, she jumped off her scooter, twisting in the air, making the crowd take a sharp intake of breath as timed seemed to almost slow. However, before anyone could assume that Scootaloo would fall and get hurt, Defensive sped past on his powerful half-dragon wings, catching Scootaloo before placing her back on her scooter; they had performed a mid air twist before Scootaloo was placed back on her scooter, which sent the crowd wild. The duo landed, and the crowd was stomping down their hooves in appreciation of the spectacular acrobatics and scooter moves performance. The music went down, and the lights focused on the judges, the whole crowd waiting for their verdict on the performance.

Sky Quill went first, giving his comment and score “That was a highly impressive performance, but it could have lasted longer. I am going to give you a seven.” He pulled out a card marked ‘7’ and showed the audience, before resuming to sit in his seat. The next judge was Lightning Storm who had a small smile on his face.

“Now that’s an aerial show to be proud of! I’m going to give you an eight!” He announced placing his card marked ‘8’ in the air before once again sitting down. The third judge was Keen Sights, who had a small glint in her eye.

“An impressive performance, but like Sky Quill said, it could have been longer. I will award you a seven.” She showed her card to the crowd before taking her seat. Last off all was Mayor Mare, who showed her appreciation for the performance.
“A well done performance and an amazing feat for ones of such young age! I award you a nine!” She held up her card, smiling at the duo on stage, before resuming her place on the panel. Overall, this means that Scootaloo and Defensive were at an outstanding score of thirty one.

Defensive and Scootaloo bowed to the audience, who applauded once more, before they walked offstage, the curtains falling shut and readying for the next performance.

Many other performances came that night, from magic shows to dance groups, all vying for the best score from the judge. Finally the last performance was to be performed; Iris and Axton.

Axton was standing ready in hi costume, like Iris. However, Iris was looking nervous and asked Axton “Are you sure we’ll be able to do this?” She looked unnerved at the large crowd that was standing in front of the stage in the viewing stands.
“Don’t worry about it, we look fine and I know that by Celestia we can sing fine, so there really is nothing to fret over. Plus these costumes are epic.” He told her, glancing at their costumes. These costumes fit in with the theme of their song, post apocalyptic wasteland survivors. Good things Rarity helped them out due to Sweetie Belle asking her.

The golden smoke came onto the stage signalling that they needed to get on stage. This golden smoke looked like the sands of the Mojave wasteland from a video game that both of them had played a lot. By now, however, they were on the stage and the backing track was ready and starting. Axton started off the song, both of them looking like a silhouette, their bodies hidden by the golden smoke, which soon started to disperse, revealing a set which looked like a desolate nuclear wasteland, with Axton and Iris in the center of the stage.

The song started off well, the crowd getting into a rhythm of stomping hooves and nodding heads as the song got into its midst. Axton sung for the melody and the rap, while Iris filled in with the harmony and chorus, which they both sung together. Before long, the song was finished, and the judges stood up to give their scores. They received a nine from Sky Quill, an eight from Lightning Storm, an eight from Keen Sights and a ten from Mayor Mare. This put them in the winning place for the competition.

After the show, outside the clubhouse...

“That. Was. AWESOME!” Scootaloo exclaimed, bouncing up and down on the spot “We were like ‘Whoosh!’ and ‘Pshoo!’. You were great, D!” Scootaloo rushed up to Defensive and gave him a big kiss the cheek before saying her goodbyes and heading off home for the night, leaving a blushing Defensive standing there next to the others who were chuckling quietly to themselves. Before long, he said his goodbyes and headed off back to Axton’s house to get some sleep as the acrobatics really took the energy out of him.Iris asked Dark to walk with her, and they walked off into the night together, chatting amiably.

With them gone, Apple Bloom smiled at Axton before walking up to him and giving him a passionate look “Ah was amazed by that performance tonight, Axton. Y’all are pretty impressive.” She sat down with him as they gazed up at the beautiful moon, which hung in the sky like a beacon of beauty.

“I couldn't have done it without that amazing set you and Dark made. After all, a performance is nothing without an amazing stage, right?” Axton turned his head to give an encouraging smile to her.

“Ah guess so...” She turned her head towards him and stared deeply into his eyes before they embraced in a passionate kiss. They stayed like that for a few minutes before they broke away from the kiss, both of them blushing deeply.

“I, uh, guess I’ll see you tomorrow. Thanks again, Apple Bloom, you’re pretty amazing.” Axton said, giving Apple Bloom a small peck on the cheek before going to walk home for the night. He whispered a small “Love you” into her ear before walking off into the night back to his house.

Apple Bloom looked up at the moon for the last time that night with a smile on her face. She thought of one thing before leaving to go home to the barn with her share of the prize money ‘I love you too, Axton’.

> Grab The Bull(y) By The Horns
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Another day had started in Equestria, and the CMC walked down the paths in Ponyville once more towards their school, chatting animatedly. The weather was sunny once more in the peaceful town and all seemed well. Or at least it seemed. As the CMC were casually walking towards their school, they were interrupted by a small, but nonetheless loud group of young ponies. Or rather, three ponies and one griffin. As they walked past, they snickered at the angered faces of the CMC, laughing at their dismay. 

“Hey look, Bolt, it’s the Blank Flank Crusaders!” Jackhammer laughed in a booming volume at his own joke “Weak little things aren't they?” He leered at the CMC. In a sense he was right that they were little. At least to him. Jackhammer wasn’t all that small like other colts and fillies, as he was rather large for his age, and what he lacked in brains, he made up in brawn. 

Lightning Bolt laughed at the CMC beside him, while Diamond Tiara grinned maliciously. Silver Spoon was a different case however, as she looked discomforted and had a look on her face as though to say ‘I’m sorry about this lot. I don’t like the way they’re bullying you... I just want to seem cool.’

Axton noticed this, but kept it to himself, eyeing up his opponents wary of the suspicious new students. While Jackhammer was strong, admittedly Axton would be a fool to tangle with him; he lacked in brains and thus could be easily outwitted. Unfortunately, Lightning Bolt was a different case as his face betrayed nothing behind those dark gold eyes; he was gonna be a tougher cookie to crack.

“Look” Axton spoke “We don’t want any trouble, so why don’t you lot clear off?” He stood his ground against the bullies, not wanting anyone to get hurt. Unlikely, as Jackhammer strode up to him, looking down upon the colt.

“Look at you, little colt. Can’t fight I bet. Why don’t you take you and your little wussy fillyfriend and get the hay out of my way? Huh?” He leaned in towards Axton, hot breath slowly going against Axton’s face.

Axton looked around at Apple Bloom, seeing if she was insulted. While her friends surrounded her, he could still see a small trickle of tears run down her face, a small waterfall out the surface of her eyes. Big Mistake.

“Y’know what, Jackhammer? Buck you.” Axton growled a low growl, which emanated from deep inside him. Everypony heard it, and cowered a little. Everypony except from Jackhammer, who got right up in Axton’s face.

“What did you say, punk?” Jackhammer bellowed into Axton’s face. That was strike three, and the last straw for Axton.

Axton collected his thoughts ‘Alright, big flank bully in my face. What to do? Oh, I got an idea. Not sure whether this will work, but I remember Vinyl saying voice magic was easy if you got it right. Always wanted to do this...’ Axton remembered his favourite video game as his magic grew up inside of him, confusing Jackhammer who let out a “Huh?” before backing away a little. Unfortunately, he was not out of Axton’s magical range and before he knew it, Axton bellowed, using a huge amount of voice magic for his newest attack.

“FUS RO DAH!!!!” Axton shouted, remembering the lessons Vinyl had given him in voice magic, something that Twilight couldn't teach him in his time at Ponyville.  He felt absolutely epic as he saw Jackhammer fly back through the air, forced back by the large grey shock wave that emanated from Axton’s mouth, sending everyone into silence.

Everyone just stared at the magical phenomenon that had happened before their eyes, awed by the sudden show of power. Jackhammer got up slowly and snorted angrily “Y-You aren't gonna get away with this!” and with that, he strode off in fury, with the rest of the bullies.

“What in th’ hay was that?” Apple Bloom asked, her voice a mixture of awe and admiration. Axton turned to her with a small smile, before going up to her and kissing her on the lips and replying.

“Voice magic, Vinyl taught me. The whole ‘Fus Ro Dah’ thing wasn’t really necessary, but it felt pretty epic anyway. You okay?” Axton asked, worried that the bullies may have hurt her feelings.

“Not in front of everypony, Axton...” Apple Bloom blushed “And yeah, ah’m fine.” She gave him a peck on the cheek in reply as they carried on walking.

“Axton” Iris walked beside him and saw what had happened “Did you just make a ‘Skyrim; The Equestria Scrolls’ reference?” She smirked at him, surprised at Axton’s evident gamer instinct. He rolled his eyes and laughed as they walked down the street, saying it was ‘too good of an opportunity to pass up’.


Twenty minutes later, Ponyville Schoolhouse...

“All right class, feel free to go to recess for now. Remember, class resumes in ten minutes!” Cheerilee sat down at her desk, humming away happily to herself as she marked the papers handed in from recent homework assignments.
As the young ponies (and other species) filed out of the class like ants, Silver Spoon had walked up next to Axton and gotten his attention. She looked worried, and glanced around herself before speaking.

“Uh, Axton? Could I talk to you for a minute?” Silver Spoon asked, worriedly.

“Uh, sure, ok. What’s it about? I saw you acting a bit strange when that jerk Jackhammer was picking on me and the rest of the crusaders.” His voice was bitter as he remembered how Jackhammer’s words had stung Apple Bloom like an angry wasp.

“I... I don’t wanna hang out with Diamond Tiara anymore. The bullying she’s doing with the others is wrong.” Silver Spoon blurted, before composing herself once more “I was going to ask whether I could stick with you guys from now on. That is, if that’s okay with you.” She gave a small lopsided smile to Axton, a request for his friendship.

Axton hesitated for a moment, pondering on her request. After all, her words seemed sincere, and he HAD noticed that she seemed uncomfortable with Jackhammer’s bullying. After a while, he nodded and replied “All right, I’ll explain to the others about this, as long as you promise to not associate yourself with those bullies any more. How does that sound?” He spoke evenly as he wanted to make sure that she was telling the truth.

“All right, that’s probably for the best. The only reason I was like that was because... well, I wanted to be cool and accepted. I guess that being cool isn’t everything, huh?” She smiled at him as he nodded, agreeing with her.


As Silver Spoon walked out into the playground, following Axton, a single thought flashed through her head.

‘Time to start anew’.



 








> Fury
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton walked outside into the noisy but nonetheless friendly playground of Ponyville Schoolhouse, with Silver Spoon close behind. As they neared the CMC clique, they got a few strange looks from the bullies, who glared down upon them beneath the shade of a tree Silver Spoon shifting nervously under their predatory gaze.

Before long, the duo had reached the area where the CMC were hanging out, a lunch table bench where the young ponies were eagerly chowing down on their lunches. Axton cleared his throat, getting everypony’s attention before speaking.

“Alright everypony, I’d like you to welcome Silver Spoon to our little group. Even though she has her cutie mark, and yes, even though she was a bully, I would like you to welcome her as a friend. She is no longer the bully you remember as she has, one could say ‘turned a new leaf’. I hope I make myself clear when I say that under no circumstances should you try to exact any type of revenge upon her for past actions.” He looked around at the group, all of them nodding in assent to his conditions, before returning to their lunches.

Three fillies came over from the opposite side of the bench to talk to Axton, curious looks on their faces. Scootaloo looked at him, and then glanced over at Silver Spoon suspiciously before speaking.


“Axton, you sure we can trust her? I mean, I know you do and don’t get me wrong, I trust you and all, but it’s... Well, Silver Spoon!” She exclaimed exasperatedly, gesturing dramatically at Silver Spoon who was sitting at the lunch table, getting along with the others and making the odd joke which earned a few laughs.

“Look, Scoots. She told me everything I needed to know. How she hated bullying in the first place, she just wanted to be cool and all that. Just trust me on this one. Anyway, I think Diamond Tiara was a really bad influence on her.” He glanced analytically at the bullies, who were STILL glaring at them.

One of them caught his sight though. Bolt was the only one out of the trio of bullies who weren’t glaring at the CMC. Instead, he held a twinkle of interest in his eyes, but apart from that, his face remained impassive as always. Before Axton could say ‘horseapples’, he found that Bolt was staring straight at him, yellow eyes boring into his almost seeing through him.  Axton finally managed to rip his gaze from the steely one that was the young griffon’s, shuddering involuntarily as he did so.

Scootaloo hesitated for a moment, before shrugging and going to sit back at the lunch table, making sure to sit close to Defensive. Defensive, noticing Scootaloo resting her head on him, blushing a little before beginning to talk to her. Sweetie Belle simply smiled at Axton, agreeing with him before going to join Pipsqueak at the lunch table.

Apple Bloom smiled at Axton, motioning for him to follow her to a more private area of the schoolhouse. Axton, curious about what was she was going to ask, followed her.

Finally finding a more secluded spot of the playground, Apple Bloom turned to Axton, who raised an eyebrow in question. She gave him a reassuring smile to tell him it was nothing bad before speaking.

“Are y’ alright? I saw y’ lookin’ at that Bolt fella, and shudderin’. He seems the shifty type, doesn’t he?” She shuddered, remembering the griffin’s cold gaze.

Before she could say any more, she had heard the play ground had grown an eerily quiet. She looked worriedly at Axton before speaking “Uh, Axton? We should go check what’s happening.” She had a little fear in her voice as she ran off towards the playground with Axton in tow.

Silver Spoon stood facing Bolt, seemingly in a debate with him; others gathered around, too fearful of what Bolt would do if they interrupted. Axton arrived and managed to catch on to the conversation.

“Why are you hanging out with these dweebs? They’re losers and totally uncool!” Bolt snarled, sneering at the rest of the crowd.

“These ‘dweebs’ are my friends, Bolt. If you knew any better, you wouldn't follow Diamond Tiara and Jackhammer like a lapdog.” Silver Spoon looked at Bolt coldly, replying in a leveled tone.

Before she could react any more, she was sent sprawling to the floor by a cruel backhanded hit from Bolt, who hawked and spat on the ground near her before snorting a little and saying “That’s right, dweeb. Know your pl-“He was interrupted mid-sentence by a rather large cog hitting him square in the face, dazing him for a second before recovering and bellowing “ALL RIGHT! WHICH ONE OF YOU DWEEBS DID THAT!?”

He was about to lash out randomly at the crowd, when a hoof tapped him on the shoulder. A strangely cold and smooth one at that. Bolt turned around to find himself facing a very familiar colt. ‘Him! Why does it have to be him?!’ Bolt thought, before he found himself being hit full force in the beak, sending him flying backwards into a tree trunk. Picking himself up, he managed a few seconds reprieve before the metallic colt pinned him up against the trunk with a terrifying amount of strength. Then, Axton spoke, his voice cold and merciless.

“Stay away from my friends, Bolt. You will regret your existence if you try to hurt any of them again. Do I make myself clear?” Axton’s voice grated against everyponys ears as everyone stood and stared at the scene he was making. Bolt, turning blue in the face due to lack of oxygen, nodded frantically before being dropped to the floor, gasping for breath.

Axton looked down at the floor as he turned back to normal, his gaze blurring before refocusing once more. He looked at himself and realized what he had just done as even though his friends looked at him in awe, he caught the look of Bolt who was staring at him in fear. A single thought passed through his head ‘I’m a monster! Why did I do that..?’.

His eyes blurred with tears as he ran full pelt away from the schoolhouse trying to get away from his act of violence, disgusted with himself. As he ran, Apple Bloom went after him, calling his name, begging for him to come back.

> Defying The Nightmare
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton ran towards town, his eyes still blurred with tears as he passed the multiple market stalls that lined the streets. He did not know where he was going, only that he wanted to run, and never stop. He wanted to get away from the violence, the power, the nightmare that was inevitably eating away at his mind. It moved through his mind, slow and sluggishly crawling into the very depths of his emotions, corrupting his heart. His steps started to slow as fatigue took over his body, limb by limb as the darkness latched into his consciousness, fighting for control.

Finally, he could take it no more as the nightmare took complete. Darkness slowly started to ripple around him, his eyes turning to black pits with red slits for pupils. Shadows danced around his body as he finally lost control of his own body.
Civilians ran for their lives as the now Nightmare Axton caused havoc, destroying stalls with the tendrils of darkness emitting from his horn as he laugh maniacally at the complete chaos.

“I aM tHe DeAtHbRiNgEr! RuN aNd CoWeR, fOoLs!” Nightmare Axton cackled as he dispatched of an apple stall. Axton was trapped inside the recesses of his mind as he fought for control.


Inside Axton’s Mind...

Axton ran full pelt through the cybernetic corridors that were his mind. He knew what was happening outside of his mind, the chaos that was being caused. He knew that it was up to him to stop this madness before it reached a climax. As he looked around his surroundings, trying to find some sort of control point, he came to a central chamber. The chamber was domed and dark tendrils scaled the walls, corrupting the blue veins upon the wall, turning them a sinister pulsing red. 

Axton, feeling a presence behind him, looked up to find a face upon what looked like some sort of glass screen. The face resembled his own, but was enveloped by a dark shadowy skin which danced along the features that made it up, occasionally lashing out, licking the air before returning to its dark embodiment. The eyes of the colt that was Nightmare Axton looked down at him maliciously, the red eyes burning with the intensity of hot coals.

“HeLLo AxToN. If YoU dIdN’t KnOw AlReAdY, I AM YoU. BuT bEtTeR tHaN yOu. MoRe PoWeRfUl. AnD wHeN I dOnE wItH yOu I wIlL MuRdEr YoUr FaMiLy AnD aLl ThAt YoU HoLd DeAr To YoU.” The face of Nightmare Axton dissipated on the screen, leaving Axton alone in the room. Or so he thought.

As Axton started to walk away from the room, the corridor was sealed off by a wall of darkness, which oozed slowly, eventually pooling onto the floor in front of Axton, taking shape before him as a bipedal behemoth.

Nightmare Axton’s voice echoed around the chamber as the giant being stood before him, ready to strike “MeEt TiTaN, AxToN. PlAy NiCe...” Nightmare Axton cackled maniacally as his voice slowly faded from the room.

Axton turned to Titan, who bellowed loudly before charging madly at him, murder intent in his glowing red eyes. Axton barely had time to dodge before a humongous arm smashed into the floor beside him, making a large dent in the floor, only a few feet away from where Axton had rolled out of the way. 


‘I can’t fight against him this way; this guy is probably too tough and will most likely deflect any spells that I throw at him.’ He thought as he dodged another punch thrown by the Titan. He spotted a glowing red crystal on the beings back, which must’ve been its weak point. ‘I can’t get to that at the moment, there’s only one of me... Eureka! There has to be more of me!’ He smirked as he thought the idea up. 

Concentrating immensely, he began to imagine multiple decoys of himself appearing. Looking up at the giant, he ran straight through its legs, confusing it. As he ran through, multiple copies of him began to force themselves out of his body, running into different directions of the room. Of course, this made the giant thrash around madly, trying to hit all of his copies at once. Each time one was destroyed, another would run through his legs and multiply to compensate for the destroyed decoy. 

After a few minutes of dodging around with the decoys, he saw his opening. As the decoys were distracting the madly flailing Titan, Axton made a heroic leap onto the creatures back, grappling onto the behemoth with all of his might, encasing himself in a steel skin just in case the Titan threw him off. The giant roared ferociously as Axton clung on for dear life on the giant’s back. Axton encased his hooves to be extra thick before tapping on the Titan’s head.

“Hey big guy!” Axton yelled into the Titan’s ear as the decoys all disappeared; this was going to be risky. “Up here!” Axton continued to shout, bracing to complete the final step of his hastily assembled plan. 

As the giant found his prey, he tried to pluck the young colt off of his back, but failed miserably and thus resorted to the final option. As the giant smashed its great shadowy fists through its own chest, effectively destroying the weak point on its back, Axton jumped to safety on the other side of the room, quickly making a shield spell as the Titan exploded in a mass of dark gelatinous gloop. 

Axton emerged from the dust of the battle that had ensued with only a few small cuts to show. He faced the screen once more and looks at it with a glare before speaking.

“Show yourself, Nightmare. Your power can’t last forever and you are most likely using a lot of it to keep me incarcerated in here. Let’s end this here and now.” Axton spoke with confidence, unfazed by the dark nightmarish visage of him as it once more appeared on the screen.

“WhY aRe YoU nOt DeAd?!?! NeVeR mInD, I’lL dEaL wItH yOu MySeLf!” The voice spoke furiously before the terrifying visage of Nightmare Axton made an appearance, grinning viciously with razor sharp teeth.

They circled each other for a moment, before they came forward, metal clashing upon shadowy muscle. They were both driven back each time they clashed with each other, but neither decided to give in.

Axton was soon beginning to tire and before long Nightmare Axton had found an opening in their repetitive combat, striking Axton to the floor with a vicious backhoof. Before long, Axton was being pinned to the floor by Nightmare Axton, who held a sharpened metal hoof to Axton’s throat.

“SeE? YoU aRe WeAk! PaThEtIc! YoU cOuLd NeVeR bEsT mE!” Nightmare Axton hissed into Axton’s face, a triumphant grin upon his gruesome features. Axton lay beneath his cold grip cut and bruised as he tried to think of a way to be released from the merciless beast that was Nightmare Axton. 
Axton let loose a light flare from his horn momentarily blinding Nightmare Axton behind the bright illumination that flashed into the Nightmare’s sight, making him drop Axton to the floor, growling in frustration at having to let his prey go so easily. Before long, Axton was seemingly nowhere to be seen, which infuriated Nightmare Axton all the more. He spoke threateningly to Axton, still knowing his more pure counterpart was in the domed room.

“YoU hAvE nOt BeStEd Me YeT, aXtOn... GiVe Up AnD I wIlL kIlL yOu QuIcKlY!” Nightmare Axton hissed to his hidden enemy, determined to strike the final blow “YoUr MiNd Is MiNe!”

Before Nightmare Axton could react, he was struck in the back of the head by a great force, sending him tumbling forward. Axton revealed himself, pulling down the hood of the Hunter’s Robes before speaking.

“This is my mind” Axton declared as he thought ‘That means I can do what I want’. He continued when he retorted to the Nightmare’s claim “I’m simply taking back what’s mine.” He drove forward in a powerful offense, fighting back Nightmare Axton with the Berserker’s Gauntlets. He had the upper hand when he was driven back by a powerful blast from Nightmare Axton’s horn. Now, they were in the same state; cuts plagued their bodies, and blood slowly oozed from them, each of the powerful combatants bruised and beaten, neither ready to give in.

They circled each other once more before coming to a final clash, each of them releasing a beam of energy that could rival Celestia herself. Axton’s beam was a silvery-grey but had veins of light entwining through it, whereas Nightmare Axton’s was a midnight black, with veins of blood red snaking their way through the attack.

Each of the combatants started to sweat as they neared their limit, but the beam of silver light from Axton soon overpowered the beam of Nightmare Axton, driving the beastly colt onto his back, damaged beyond any type of repair. As Axton walked forward to deal the final blast, Nightmare Axton attempted one last attempt for control.

“P-pLeAse... AxToN... YoU aNd I ArE qUiTe AlIKe... YoU aNd I CaN bE aN uNsToPpAbLe FoRcE!” Axton stood over the Nightmare now, looking down upon the sniveling and evil mess below him.

“There’s not room enough in this mind for the two of us. And I am sure as Tartarus not letting you run free.” Axton brought his horn down, emitting a white light which burned away at the shadows of the room, including Nightmare Axton. The Nightmare screamed an unnatural scream as his dark life-force was burned away by the purging white light.

Axton let the light envelope him, thinking ‘That part of me is no more’.











> Life of the Party
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton awoke to the sound of heart monitors and medical equipment as he lay in a ward in the Ponyville hospital. After his blurry eyesight cleared, he looked around to find that he was the only one in the ward and the place was eerily quiet. That was, until Nurse Redheart burst into the room, followed by Axton’s family and friends.  For several minutes, everypony spoke at once, creating a cacophonous noise, until Nurse Redheart noisily cleared her throat and shouted “QUIET!” after which everyone fell silent in the room.

“Alright, I’ll let you see him in a minute. Give the patient some room, now!” Nurse Redheart commanded everyone else, ushering them out of the room before turning to Axton.

“Ok, Axton. How do you feel? Your vitals are normal, I just want to double-check that you’re ok.” She kept constantly running through a clipboard that she marked with a pencil, muttering something about ‘kids these days’.

“I feel fine, Nurse. Better than I have in a long time actually” He gave a lopsided smile at Nurse Redheart who simply gave him a small smile to him and walked up to his bed, unplugging the heart monitors and switching of the apparatus that surrounded him, allowing him to stand up. 

“It’s actually quite surprising that you recovered from that... ordeal in a couple of weeks. Any normal colt your age would be out for at least a month.” She looked at Axton, her face puzzled as she tried working out how somepony would recover so quickly. In the end, she dismissed it, walking to the door and allowing Axton to wait in the visitors lobby.  

Before he could react, he was swamped with ponies hugging him in a humongous group hug, with him in the middle of the mass of fur and happiness. Before long he was gasping for air as they all let him go. From among the small crowd, he could spot his mother, father and brother along with Defensive and the rest of the CMC. His eyes welled up as he realised how many people had come here, worried about him. His family, after checking up on him to make sure he was okay, went back to their house after making the CMC promise to make sure he didn’t get in too many scrapes with danger. As they left, Apple Bloom ran up to him, literally showering him with kisses as she hugged him tightly, small tears trickling down her face.

“Ah missed you, Axton. Don’t you ever, EVER do that again.” She looked at him, a mixture of happiness and concern in her eyes, making him feel guilty on the inside; if he hadn’t regained control, well.... he didn’t want to think about it.

“Don’t worry, Bloom. I promise” He replied gently, wiping away her tears and making her smile by placing a small kiss on her forehead before continuing “I’ll tell you all about it later. So, what are we gonna do now?” Axton looked around at the CMC.

“Well Pinkie said she was holding a ‘Hooray Axton Got Better’ party, along with a ‘Welcome To PonyVille’ party at the same time in about two hours. It’s a casual one, so no need for any of that fancy evening wear stuff Iris told me you tend to wear at parties.” Dark grinned at his little quip, looking at Iris, who simply had a small smile on her face as she rolled her eyes.

“So, who’s the new pony then?” Axton asked, Apple Bloom at his side. He looked at the others who simply shrugged, not offering any input. “Well, I guess we’ll find out at the party. It’s best if we split up to get ready, right?”

The others nodded, agreeing before they went their separate ways to prepare for the most interesting party of their lives.

A couple of hours later, at the party...

As Axton entered the town hall, which was usually the main venue for large parties, he was greeted by a sea of faces that smiled at him, congratulating him for getting better so quickly. Axton made his way over to the CMC clique, smiling at him as they chatted amiably. Occasionally, a good song would come on and they would go dance around on the dance floor, but mainly they just messed about, playing games such as ‘pin the tail on the pony’ and ‘twister’. But the main game they all played was on what was known as the ‘Dance Dance Revolution’ machine, or the DDR for short.

The group chose to do a small tournament of versus matches, beginning with Defensive and Scootaloo (Sweetie Belle chose not to dance on the DDR machine).  The song they chose was called J-E-N-O-V-A, the complete version. It was a very fast paced song, and as it began everypony cheered as the two competitors seemed to match the song step for step. That was, until Defensive fell flat on his face near the end of the song, casting him out of the round as loser. Everypony cheered as Scootaloo bowed dramatically for the crowd, smirking at Defensive before helping him up and giving him a small peck on the cheek. Defensive, even though being out of the tourney on the first round, smiled as he walked into the crowd.

The next round was Iris versus Dark, and everyone laughed jovially as Dark tripped over head over heels, landing on his flank by the dance pad. He gave an embarrassed chuckle before picking himself up and going to his dance area. Iris was the complete opposite however, and strutted along towards her dance pad, smiling confidently; nopony had ever beaten her at DDR. Well apart from Axton, but he was basically a pro at games.

The chosen song, called Pony Rock Anthem, began and the two started off on their predestined dance routine. Iris danced nearly flawlessly to the song, constantly getting enthusiastic ‘Good!’ and ‘Perfect!’ remarks from the machine, making her all the more confident. Dark, even though he danced clumsily, still managed to maintain an even score with her, smiling at how he was even with his fillyfriend even after having only played the game once before. Halfway into the song, he started pulling off combos which made the crowd go wild as his score boosted far beyond that of Iris’s own. She couldn’t pull off as nearly many combos as him before the song ended, making her lose and go out of the tourney. Dark, however, cheered her up by giving her a kiss on the lips, making her blush a bright red. The crowd, seeing this, made catcalls and wolf whistles before Iris walked off stage.

The semi-final was Apple Bloom versus Axton, the song being a song called Cotton Eye Joe. The song began with the playing of a fiddle, which made the neon arrows appear on the screen once more. The two danced flawlessly upon their respective dance pads, earning large cheers from the crowd. However, Apple Bloom was completely outclassed by Axton when he started pulling off some crazy combos halfway through the song, making everypony in the crowd drop their jaws in amazement as Axton twisted and danced on his dance pad, earning double points for each combo made. The song ended with Apple Bloom at 5000 points and Axton at 13,000 points, making Axton the winner. Before Apple Bloom walked off, Axton whispered something in her ear, making a light pink blush appear on her cheeks before she walked off the stage.

Scootaloo, wanting to see Defensive, decided to quit the tourney, making the finals Dark versus Axton. As said ponies walked onto the DDR machine, Dark gave Axton a small grin before mouthing ‘good luck’. Axton simply laughed, saying he wouldn’t need it, before stepping onto his respective dance pad and choosing the song, which was called Pray. As the song began, the two got off to a good start, hitting all the right commands into their dance pads. Before long, they were both pulling off amazing combos, making the crowd gasp as they watched the furious battle of dance between the two. The song ended and the two tired out colts looked up to see their score; it was a draw at 35,000 points!

They looked across at each other, grinning as the crowd gasped in amazement. They hoof bumped each other and walking off into the crowd. Before Axton could reach Apple Bloom, he was stopped by another pony. The Pegasus colts coat was a rusty orange-brown colour and his mane and tail were the colours of blonde and brown, complimenting his coat. He wore a white vest, green flight goggles and had a black bracelet on. He nodded at Axton, his Vinyl-esque mane style bobbing as he did so. He spoke confidently “Hey. You did well on the DDR machine back there, so you seem cool. The name’s Bunker Blitz, Vinyl Scratch’s biggest fan. Oh, and the new pony in town. Wanna hang out some time?” Blitz gave Axton a small smirk, which radiated with brashness.

Axton replied, ever the one to get new friends (or at least since he had moved to Ponyville) with a small smile “Alright, you seem Ok. The name’s Axton. I have to go see my fillyfriend, but we’ll chat some other time alright?” Axton asked the question with a hint of curiosity in his voice.

“Sure thing. See you later, bro.” Bunker Blitz said before walking off into the crowded room, his mane bobbing up and down as he walked off. 

As Axton walked towards Apple Bloom, he breathed in relief; it was good to be back.



> Labyrinth
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton had entered his dream world once more, and resided within the glowing mechanical maze that was his mind. As he wandered around the endless corridors, a door materialized to his right, seemingly out of nowhere. The door, unlike the rest of his mind, was not made out of the cybernetic metal that he was used to. This one was made of some sort of ancient carved stone, and was adorned with age old carving and runes. Upon the towering door (which was around five times the height of an average stallion). Not only this, there was a gigantic rusted iron door knocker in the middle of the door, about the size of Axton’s head. Using his magic, Axton knocked on the giant door, a thundering ‘dong’ echoing from the monstrous thing. Nearly as soon as he had knocked on the door, it swung upon making a grating sound upon the stone floor it was placed over.

As Axton walked inside, he was face with a T-shaped passage way, with one corridor forking left and the other corridor bending off to the right. Naturally, he decided to go right, and started to canter down said path. Before long, he had realized he was in some sort of Labyrinth, to his obvious dismay.

‘Well, horsefeathers’ Axton thought ‘Why am I given all the bloody puzzles?’ He snorted in frustration as he closed his eyes to compose himself. ‘Right, if I just keep walking, I’ll find the end of this Celestia-damned maze. Labyrinth. Whatever!’ He shook his head in anger as he kept walking.

The labyrinth seemed to stretch on for hours, Axton wandering the aimlessly. Eventually, he sank to the floor. ‘I’ll never be able to escape... why did that door even appear? What was its purpose?’ As he raised his head, he saw a small inscription upon the ancient wall. Getting up, he went closer to the wall, looking at the inscription closer, to find a phrase presented to him.

‘Even in the darkest of hours, ones resolve is never truly lost. All one needs is a spark of courage’.  Axton read the inscription quietly, repeating it slowly to himself. Before long, he felt ready to proceed further into the maze, and got going.

The maze continued to stretch onward endlessly, but after what seem like a millennia, Axton reached a stone carved central chamber. It was domed, rather like a lot of the chambers in Axton’s mind. There was a fire burning brightly in the centre of the chamber, glowing with an unnatural blue light, rather like some sort of spirit or soul fire. Axton remember reading about those; it gave him the chills just to even think about that sort of thing. 

Axton stepped forward into the room, to see some sort of robed figure sitting cross-legged beside the fire. He had never seen anything like this creature, not even in the ancient mythology book that he studied fervently to learn about the supposed Machine Gods. Of course, the book he had been reading (Ancient Mythological Creatures, by Fossil Fire) offered no knowledge upon such beings. He doubted that any book of that sort held any solid info on this creature either. From what Axton could gather, the creature seemed bipedal, with two legs and some weird appendages instead hooves.

The creature, noticing his presence, turned around and stood up, making Axton’s jaw drop; the creature was easily level in height with an Alicorn, easily towering over him. Axton back away a little, a combat spell at the ready, before the creature spoke.
“So, you’re the new Machine Heart? Christ, you’re only a kid, what was Abe thinking?” Axton noted that the creature spoke perfect Equish, which confused Axton; He could also tell the creature was a male, or at least he thought so.

“What in the hay are you?” Axton asked unsure of whether this creature meant ill intent or not. The creature chuckled, obviously used to being asked this. He settled down again by the fire, motioning for Axton to join him. 

“I am a human, and you can call me Marcus, or as those who were friends with me in life would call me, Cogs.” He laughed a little at his own nickname, continuing “I was the previous Machine Heart. Naturally I am from another planet, which would explain why none of your books contain any info on me. Or the Machine Gods for that matter. Anyway, you were taken into this maze for two reasons; one, to test your resolve, a test which you have obviously passed. Two, you were brought here to make a choice upon the upcoming battle with the Mortem Domini, or better known as the ass of a death lord.” He laughs at his own little joke, which has only served to confuse Axton.

“So, what was that about choices? And why do I have to fight that- that demon?” Axton inquired, stuttering in his words when he thought of the terrifying demon. However, the idea of actually having a choice of battle pleased him. 

The human nodded, gesturing for him to look at the fire before speaking “Alright, kid, the first choice is called the Overlord.” He throws some powder upon the fire, making images of a very powerful Alicorn standing over the dead body of Mortem Domini, or at least the burning husk that is left of it. The Alicorn now has glowing red eyes as a red aura constantly burns around him. “After defeating Mortem Domini, you the ability to absorb his magic and power, making you extremely deadly and all-powerful, even more so than Celestia and Luna themselves. Now, although I don’t recommend this option, it is your choice entirely.” He noticed Axton’s scared expression, and continued “Of course, there are still two more options. The first of the next two is called the Sacrifice” The pictures within the fire, showing ponies celebrating in the background of Ponyville “this means that you sacrifice a large portion of your life force, in return for destroying Mortem and of course saving Ponyville in the process. Now, you may or may not die in the process of doing this as it’s a fifty-fifty thing. Now, the last option is called Ascension.” The fire shifted again, showing a rather handsome looking Alicorn looking down upon Ponyville with a small smile “You will become one of the fabled Alicorns, defending and ruling Ponyville as Lord Coglink, for the rest of your life. Of course, each decision is your choice entirely, so I will not judge you based upon your actions. Choose wisely when the time comes.” And with that, the human disappeared as the room began to crumble, signalling Axton’s return to normal life.

> Finale; Battle Of Ponyville
> --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Axton awoke to the sounds of screaming and muffled booms outside. Thuds echoed through the streets as citizens ran for their lives from the demonic giant that roared loudly, a roar as loud as a hundred fold Canterlot voice. He slowly but steadily stumbled to his hooves, wiping the tiredness away with a frantic shake of his head. He already knew who it was.

‘Mortem.’ He thought bitterly, knowing he would eventually have to fight the gargantuan death lord. He raised himself to his hooves, gathering his stuff that he needed to use. He eventually got kitted up; the Minotaurian gauntlets shone in the low light of his house, the Robe of the Hunter shimmered faintly. Then there was the last piece of the magical items at his disposal; the Circlet given to him by the Machine God of Justice, Abraham. He looked at himself in the mirror, seeing the reflection that stared back at him.

He stood quite tall for his age, his coat its usually rusty brown, his mane just a tone darker, making it a chocolate brown. The magical artifacts that adorned him made him look like some sort of prince, or king. ‘King Axton Coglink. I like it. Has a ring to it.’ He was quite worried about where his family were, but he HAD to deal with Mortem first, otherwise it would become much more terrible for the town of Ponyville. He dashed out the door to see the Death Lord, his rippling dark and shadowy back turned to him, a shadowy curtain of hatred broiling in the sunlight. He seemed to be terrorizing the town hall, or at least he was about to. Axton was not gonna let that happen, not if there were innocent ponies were in there. He readied his magic, shouting out.

“Hey, big dumb and ugly! Looking for somepony?” Axton yelled, firing off three high powered magic orbs at the Death Lord’s face. Said Death Lord received these orbs to the face after turning to face him, roaring in rage as they tore large chunks out of his tough skin, black oily blood falling down his gruesome features.

“There you are, mortal. Ha, the pony who wants to let everypony live, come to die. If you surrender, I may be merciful.” He stomped over towards Axton, throwing an earth shattering fist down upon the floor where Axton stood, only for Axton to dodge, putting his robed hood up, and disappearing from the fray with the help of the Hunter’s robes.

Mortem swung around angrily like a bull in a china shop, smashing a few buildings to pieces. In his anger, the gargantuan demon didn’t notice the robe clad colt jump on his back, digging his hooves in for a better grip. However, Mortem did notice the very painful tap on his shoulder.

Said tap came from a rather large magic emitting colt who grinned and announced “Sup?” before landing a  very heavy hoof on his face, making him stumble back. Axton merely laughed a little at Mortem’s disorientation, jumping from a roof, then onto a ledge and back onto the floor, ready for the next attack. Before he could get a word in, he was shoved aside by a fist, slamming him into a wall. Even with his hastily made shield, he was still embedded into the concrete and bricks like a ragdoll stuck into a casing.

Try as he did, Axton could not escape the stranglehold the wall was keeping him in. He did not even have time to react to the giant fist that slammed him through the wall, knocking him back and wounding him badly, scarring him with multiple large cuts. His vision blurred before he collapsed, the world turning to black.





He awoke in the chamber of the Machine Gods once more, but it was empty, the gods not there. He trotted over to the centre of the chamber, seeing that by the pedestal were three altars. One housed a red crystal, while the second one held a blue crystal. The final one held a green crystal. 

Axton comptemplated what each one meant; then suddenly, it came to him. These were his choices. The red one was most likely the least moral option, where he gains the demonic powers of Mortem, enabling him to destroy him and become an Overlord. While that amount of power was quite tempting, he didn’t want to do that. He looked at the green crystal, its soft green light bathing him in calmness. This must have been the Ascension choice, allowing him to become an all-powerful Alicorn. Even though the prospect of becoming an Alicorn was quite welcoming, he knew he could not do it; it would mean out-living Apple Bloom, and that was something he could not bear to think about. 

And then there was one.

The last crystal, which emanated a soft blue light, literally called to him; Axton knew what taking this crystal meant. He would sacrifice a large portion of his life force in order to gain enough power to have a chance at defeating Mortem. Of course it also meant he’d have a 50/50 chance at living... was it worth it? Then again, the other two options weren’t really something he wanted to go through with, so this was his only realistic choice.  

‘Alright, Axton... this is it. For home. For Apple Bloom. For Equestria.’ He thought to himself as he grabbed the blue crystal in his magic aura, walking towards the white glowing crystal at the pedestal. The white crystal had a chip in it for some reason, which was the exact same shape as each of the crystals. 

As he walked towards it, the crystal shuddered in his grasp, breaking free and sticking to the white crystal. All of a sudden, the crystal let a blue mist into the white crystal, turning it an azure blue, emanating an aura of Justice. A thousand voices whispered to him.

“Sacrifice... Sacrifice... Sacrifice” A blue light blinding Axton more and more as the word repeated over and over in his head. 





Axton awoke from a pile of rubble, knocking the stones aside so he stood on all four hooves. He stood before Mortem, who was staring at him incredulously.

“But... You died! I saw it! How is this possible?!” He bellowed; his voice was full of shock and fury.  He shook his large head, horns glinting in the sunshine “Never mind... I shall kill you for real this time! Then you shall join me as one of my Undead Minions!” He laughed; the sound was like a hundred screams that echoed across the plains.

Axton dodged another flying fist, and leaped ferociously up to a ledge, the crystal’s power allowing him to perform nigh-on-impossible feats. Mortem roared, throwing his giant fist into the ledge, making Axton fly up into the air. He twisted in the air like an acrobat, landing onto Mortem’s arm, running up it.

While the Death Lord thrashed around, Axton charged up his and the crystal’s power to full, and as he charged up the demonic arm, a point of energy began focusing into his vision. After three seconds, he was a fully charged magical and deadly dart, a bringer of Justice in the form of pain. As he reached the Death Lord’s head, he burst through it, dark oily blood spouting like an oil well around him as he flashed and back down to the ground.

Mortem roared in pain, bellowing “This isn’t over Machine Heart!!!! I will Retuuuuuuurrrrrrnn....... GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!” He roared in pain once more, exploding in a black explosion which ravaged the landscape.

Axton clung on for dear life upon the ground, the shadows eating away at his energy reserves. When the explosion finally stopped, he finally collapsed, allowing his vision to tumble down into a black abyss of darkness.


Six Months Later...

Axton awoke in the hospital of Canterlot, his friends and family surrounding him. How many times had he been in a hospital? Three? Four? He lost count after ten, that’s how many times.

“Alright, ponies get out of the way!” A nurse burst through the crowd before checking his vitals, and making sure he was mentally stable, walked off to file a medical report.

Apple Bloom ran up to him, hugging him while his friends cheered at his return to life. “Don’t you ever, ever do that again, Axton! Ah want you to promise me.” Apple Bloom sniffled a little, giving him puppy eyes.

‘Damnit! Why is she so Celestia-damned cute?!’ He thought before answering.

“I can’t promise anything, beautiful. What I can tell you though that this is not the end. It’s only the start of another Great Adventure.”