//------------------------------//

// Loyalty's Vengeance// by MilitisDash//------------------------------//

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 1: We Parted Ways. //------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,

Chapter 1: We Parted Ways.

I can still hear their cries, the screams of terror, and pleas of mercy that
fell upon deaf ears. The utterly nauseating scent of blood thick in the air, spread
about, by the beating wings of death. I was helpless; I couldn’t do a damn thing,
but sit and watch them die. For all my big talk, my ever growing boasting, I.
Couldn’t. Do. Anything.

Canterlot was the epicenter of the corruption, it was there that my friends and I
stood against Chrysalis, and her horde of Changelings...that’s where it all
changed.

Chrysalis, that filthy bug! I still find it hard to believe...even after six
years. She had sent a letter of attack to Princess Celestia, just as she had during
Shining Armor’s wedding, but this time she didn’t hide her intentions. It was in
great detail that she wrote her plan of attack, how she intended to storm into
Canterlot, free Discord...and destroy everything we loved. And that’s exactly what
she did. I can still remember being summoned, along with my friends, by Princess
Celestia. I was so angry, so enraged by Chrysalis’ arrogance, that I let my rage
cloud my judgement.

There we stood, at the gates of Canterlot, ready for that bitch and her army.
There I stood, among the greatest ponies to ever live; Twilight, Applejack, Rarity,
Fluttershy, Pinkie...even Princess Celestia and Luna stood at our side. My body
tingled with excitement, my soul longed for battle, and my egotistical mind wanting
nothing more than bragging rights. I can still remember AJ leaning over. She
nuzzled my neck, and whispered for me to watch her back. I’m sorry AJ, I let you
down.

The noise, the sheer thunderous booming of beating wings, and hate filled
hisses. That was truly a terrifying moment, a moment when we knew things would not
end well, the moment we saw the black tide of Changelings...with Chrysalis at it’s
helm. Shouts from the guard towers behind me, as well as the shouts of the
Princess’s and my friends, mixed with that of the Changelings...and soon...we were
at war. Bodies clashed, magic beams flew by in rapid succession, while feathers and
scales showered down from the air.

I took to the air, my intention to save as many ponies as I could, and so I

could watch over my friends. The battle was intense, and it raged on, body after
body falling. For every Changeling that would fall, two more would stand to take
it’s place. I saw AJ knocking those Changelings’ around like nothing, while
Twilight stood close to Celestia, casting spell after spell, ever the faithful
student...even to the end, huh Twi? Pinkie had modified her party cannon, to fit
pieces of whatever Rarity put in it, and fired barrage after barrage into our
attackers forces. While Fluttershy tended to the wounded, she was always so
kind...I wish I would have showed her how much I really cared.

I knew something had to be done, and quick, or we would surely lose. That’s
when I saw Princess Luna battling Chrysalis, and she didn’t look like she was
fending to well. I launched myself towards Chrysalis, my thoughts only set on
victory, my eyes focused only on her...that was mistake number one. Number two was
my shouting just as I was about to grab Chrysalis, giving her the time to move, and
cause me to slam into Luna.

Chrysalis...her voice...that laugh...it taunted me as I rose slowly. Thankfully

Luna was alright, shaken, but alright. Still Chrysalis continued laughing, even as,
the princess and I stood there before her. What happened next, even I can’t
describe...but Luna and I...we...we were beaten. Beaten by Chrysalis, as she
ensnared us in her magic, forcing the both of us against the castle walls.

A scream, I heard a scream, and even in my constrained state...I was able to

turn my head. I was pinned helplessly against that damn castle, by some weird
Changeling magic, and just watched. I saw Rarity, collapsed to the ground, her
beautiful white fur stained with her blood. Pinkie stood over her, defiant in her
attempts to protect our friend. And it was with the greatest sadness I’ve yet to
know, that I saw the Changelings overwhelm her...

I screamed, tears streaming down my face, as I fought against the magic that
locked me in place. All the while Chrysalis smiled, as she watched me with a sick,
and twisted sense of enjoyment. Then came another scream, this one not my own. I
jerked my head back towards the battlefield, eyes widening, as my muscles began
moving on their own to free me. “I swear to Celestia I’ll kill you all if you touch
her!” I shouted, as I saw Fluttershy surrounded, crying out for me to save her.
“Flutters!” I shouted, as I freed one of my forehooves, and reached out towards
her. “Flutters run!” I couldn’t save Flutters.

I watched three of my closest friends die, and I couldn’t do a damn thing.

Chrysalis let out another insane cackle, as she leaned down towards me. She had
begun to say something, but I quickly decided I’d had enough, and slugged her with
my free hoof. “Take that, you monster!” I shouted, flailing my free appendage, in
an attempt to strike her again.

“You’ll regret doing that,” she replied coldly, before turning to Princess
Luna. “Don’t you dare touch her!” I shouted, to no avail. I still don’t know what
Chrysalis did, or if I can reverse it...but she touched her horn to Luna’s
chest...and Luna turned to stone. “No!” I could feel a small pang in my heart, a
strange feeling I’d never known. Was it fear?

Chrysalis smiled, lowering Luna back to the ground, before she began laughing.
“I have use for your element.” Was all she said to me, as I levitated helplessly
behind her, wrapped in her evil magic.

“Just wait until Princess Celestia and Twilight find you!”

“Oh I look forward to it, but by then it’ll be far too late, you rainbow maned
buffoon.” Chrysalis replied, her eyes full of malice. “Now how about this? I’ll
just take what I need from you, kill you, and your suffering can end.”

I didn’t even have time to reply, before my body started glowing, and I felt an
indescribable pain ripping at my chest. I gasped for air, as it felt like my lungs
had locked in place, and I was slowly dying.

“Ah there we are.” Chrysalis chimed, before a small orb of brilliant red light
emerged, from my chest. “It’s more beautiful than I ever imagined...well I thank
you for this Element of Loyalty. With your essence, and my newly acquired magics, I
can now release and control Discord. I will be in direct control of chaos
itself...I am sorry you will not see it though.”

So what happened next? Chrysalis tossed me away like trash, she cast me from
Canterlot, free to the world to do what it willed to me. I nearly died, but I found
the strength to live, I found the resolve to pull myself from the pit I’d managed
to fall into. I’ve lived everyday of the last six years since training, and
imagining my vengeance. I still don’t know what became of Princess Celestia,
Twilight...or Applejack...but I do know that the Equestria I once knew, is long
gone.

Since Chrysalis freed Discord, the land has died, as well as many ponies. A
sickness has spread, Discords corruption no doubt, but those affected become
servants of Chrysalis. Scary thing is...there’s no way to tell if someone is
infected, at least once the corruption has taken full control. My greatest treasure
was my friends, and now they’re all gone. I don’t even have my element anymore.
That’s alright though, I’ll have the last laugh...The Element of Loyalty is dead,
Rainbow Dash died in the Changeling War, just like the other elements. My friends
deaths’ however, will not go unpunished. I may not be able to save Equestria, but I
won’t stop until Chrysalis, Discord, and anypony else who gets in my way is dead.

Today I will take those first steps, and never look back, as I walk down this path
lined with death. I know full well that I truly lose all that I ever was, if I
become the mare that is needed of me today. A mare of past pains, present regrets,
and future sins. Even if my mane is forever tainted red with the blood of my
enemies, and my coat becomes blackened as my heart will surely have to be to
survive. I will bear those burdens gladly, for those I loved, and lost...

Today I will become the tool in which judgement is passed down. I will show the
evils of this world to fear loyalty’s wrath, as I take on my new title: The Element
of Vengeance.
//------------------------------//
// Chapter 2: The Journey Begins.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,

Chapter 2: The Journey Begins.

The land of Equestria, the once beautiful home of my friends and I, gone. The
dead grass, the putrid rivers, and the smell of death now all that remains. It’s a
mockery, a slap in the face, to the peace loving pony’s who once called this land
home. This place, this world of evil incarnate, is now my home. I thank Celestia
everyday, not for my waking, but for my friends not having to see this. Hmph I must
be pathetic, being grateful that my friends are no longer here, but still...the
pony’s they once were...the pony I once was...oh Celestia how we’ve fallen.
Everyday I wake, I am reminded of my weakness, of my blind rage. The very thing
that drives me, my loyalty, completely thrown away...because I rushed in. Would it
have made a difference if I would have held back, if I would have stayed on the
front, could Luna have beaten Chrysalis?

These thoughts, these regrets...my only companion. Day in, and day out, a war
rages within myself. I am nothing more than a helpless bystander, watching my
heart, clinging desperately to what was. Is any of this really worth it, I mean I
can’t bring my friends back, right? Even so, I can’t let their memories fade, I
can’t let the horrors Chrysalis has committed go unpunished.

Oh how I wish I could return to Ponyville, my home, but it is no more.

Chrysalis began a propaganda campaign shortly after our defeat at Canterlot, using
slander and lies, to try and convert citizens to her cause. Many cities fell,
either believing Chrysalis’s lies, or simply wishing to avoid destruction...those
poor fools. Celestia ruled through lies, her enemies silenced before their voices
could cause decent, how could anypony believe that? Ponyville however, well they
stood firm in their faith in our princess, in their ways of harmony.

Chrysalis decided to make an example of Ponyville, so she sent in the one foe
we never expected, the one enemy we couldn’t even see...until it was too
late...Diamond Dogs. My friends, the pony’s I loved, and those I considered
family...fought til the very end...the Apple family being the last to fall. Big
Mac, I can still hear your voice calling out to everypony, telling them not to
believe in Chrysalis’s lies. How you said that the elements of harmony, how your
sister would not abandon the town, and how we’d return. I can even remember how you
stood there, in quiet defiance, as the Diamond Dogs tortured you. When they left
you there, bleeding to death, from the gashes they carved into your body...I’m
sorry big guy.

I watched the horrors unfold in Ponyville, I watched as it’s people suffered, but
they all kept smiling...They just kept smiling, even as hunger,sickness, and
Diamond Dogs took them one by one.I wanted to help, I wished nothing but to help,
but I couldn’t. Call it fear, call it cowardice...call it whatever the hell you
want, but I did nothing. The injuries I suffered from Canterlot still plagued me,
and I knew trying to fight, would only mean death.

I fled into the Everfree Forest, I took shelter among it’s wild, untamed canopy of
trees’. There I rested, I recovered, and slowly felt my old self wither. My mind
became enraged with thoughts of death, hate, and a lust for revenge. The days
brought me sleep, while the nights, brought me time to prepare myself. I learned to
live off the land, learned to hunt...to kill. I know poor Fluttershy wouldn’t
approve, but she was no more, and I had to live. There in that forest of darkness,
the very place we’d been taught from filly’s to avoid, was now my only place of
refuge. I called it home, and in time I learned to love it, and it was there...that
I spilled the blood of my enemies first, and found purpose.

The air was surprisingly crisp, full of the scents I’d come to know, then again by
that time I’d lived there for about a year. However I noticed something...off that
morning as I drifted in and out of sleep, an invader. I peered down from my bed
among the branches, and sighted the source of the odor, a pair of mangy Diamond
Dogs. I stayed silent as I watched them, those...things, and listened as they
bantered on...when I heard them say something I’d feared.

“So what did you do with that little orange Pegasus you caught?”

“You liked last night’s stew didn’t you?”

I couldn’t stop myself, I couldn’t even rationalize what they said, all I knew was
they took something precious from me. “I’ll kill you, you dirty bastards!” I jumped
from my perch, folding my wings against my back, as I slammed down into one of
them. “You ate Scoots!” I was furious...looking back...I still am. I had the
advantage of surprise, and speed, as the two gawked at me in disbelief. I didn’t
waste anytime, as I bucked the dog I’d knocked to the ground square in the chest,
causing all the air in his lungs to escape. The second lunged at me, and I stepped
back, as he fell off balance. I leaned in, grabbing the hilt of the sword at his
waist, and jerked it back...

The shrill scream that escaped that burly dogs filthy maw startled me, as I gouged
his side with the rusted blade, creating a jagged gash. The smell of blood rushed
to my nostrils, as I inhaled it deeply, and found myself enjoying his pain. He
staggered back, leaning against a tree just behind him, staring at me with fear. I
turned quickly, sword still tightly grasped between my teeth, as I heard the
mongrel behind me stir. I hadn’t intended to bring the blade across his throat, but
as I felt the blade pass through his skin, and slice through the sinew...I felt
something.
The strained gurgle that emitted from his wound, shout blood out, spraying my face.
The disgusting smell of his blood was enough to turn my stomach, which only angered
me further, as I drove the blade into his chest...before kicking his limp body from
the instrument of his death.

“Who, who are you?” The injured Diamond Dog asked, his breath ragged. I wouldn’t
find out until later, that I had actually punctured his lung.

“Who am I!? Who am I!?" I shouted, through the hilt I still held onto, my temper
flaring as I charged forward. I ran him through, pinning him to the tree, and gazed
into his eyes. “I am the only family that little Pegasus had.” I said in a calm
voice, unnerving even myself, as I watched blood pool at his feet.

“Really then where were you when she screamed? I even heard her scream your name,
Rainbow Dash, as I gutted her alive.”

That was it, the very thing that pushed me over the edge, that was all I needed to
hear. “You son of a bitch!” His eyes, his cold gaze, even now they haunt me. I
jerked the sword from his body, and went crazy, slashing and hacking wildly. Blood
splattered from his body, it covered my face and wings, and at first...he
screamed...then he stopped. I...I didn’t stop however, I kept hacking, and
eventually...there was nothing but a lump of flesh and blood. I stood there in
silence, the sword dropping to the ground, as I inhaled deeply.

Looking back now, it was sloppy...but hey you gotta start somewhere. Never the less
as I stood there blood dripping from my hair, staining my coat, I broke down into
tears. How brutal could they be, they tortured and ate Scoots, and they spoke of it
with no remorse...as if they had no soul. I sank down to my haunches, my tears
cutting a path through the blood that covered me, as I thought about poor
Scootaloo.

Had I caused this, couldn’t I have saved her, couldn’t I have at least been there
for her? No I had no room for doubts, no room for second guessing, no room for
emotion. I collected my thoughts, and soon I found myself returning to reality, and
to the heap of meat and blood that lay before me.

My stomach turned, and wrenched, as I felt the burn of its acidic contents build in
my throat. I couldn't hold it in any longer, as I expelled the contents of my
breakfast on the forest floor, my eyes burning from tears. I had tasted battle
before, I knew the rush of defeating another, but never had I killed with such
unadulterated hate. My forelegs shook from my weight, as I strained to hold myself
up, all while trying to calm my stomach...and my thoughts. I just sat there,
staring at the eviscerated corpse before me, as I finally realized...this was my
doing.

My thoughts were incoherent, and riddled with grief, as I accepted I had ended two
lives. I didn't feel remorse for their deaths, but instead wept through the night,
wondering how disappointed my friends would be. Scootaloo, did their deaths please
you, did their pain make amends for the tortures you were subjected to?

As I saw the first small trickle of light flood in through the thick branches
above, I had come to terms with my actions, and I came upon my answers. I left the
bodies of those things, as maggots crawled across their bloated bodies, and took up
the sword tightly between my jaws. I was headed to Ponyville, I would cleanse my
home of those abominations called Diamond Dogs, and I would send Chrysalis a
message...even if there was nopony left.

The journey was not a long one, as I made it a point not to venture too deeply into
Everfree Forest, and by afternoon I stood at the outskirts of Ponyville. Even from
the shroud of the treeline I could see those disgusting creatures, even through the
dried blood caked around my muzzle, I could smell their filth.

They wandered through the streets, ravaging the corpses of the fallen, using their
mutilated and mangled carcasses as nutrition. I was disgusted beyond belief, and
nearly to the point of vomiting once again, as I saw the disemboweled remains of
Big Mac still tied to a post in the town square.

How dare they disregard decency, and common morals, as they violated the dead. I
couldn't take anymore, yet I couldn't rush in, I was outnumbered twenty to one.
With a swiftness I'd only further developed within the forest, I made my way along
my floral cover, silently moving towards a stray dog near the trees...I took my
opportunity to strike as he stretched. In one rapid succession of movements I
grabbed him, and ran the sword I carried through his back until I saw it protrude
from his stomach, my hoof tightly clamped against his mouth to stifle his screams
of pain. He fought at first swinging his arms behind him wildly, tearing a shallow
gash across my right flank, and through my cutie mark. Then...silence, his
struggling replaced by the random twitches of his nervous system, as I threw his
body to the ground.

I took a moment to collect myself, before pulling the blade from his body, and
sighing. I wasn't filled with overpowering hate, or soul swallowing remorse...I was
calm. The raw emotions that filled me only hours ago, even as I stared down at yet
another death I caused...I only felt purpose. That is when I realized I wouldn't
simply be satisfied with the death of Chrysalis, or Discord, but with the deaths of
all those who sided with her.

I moved from the trees, slinky through the streets, my movements fluid as water
itself. I pressed myself against the wall of a hollowed out building, I can still
remember the pony’s that lived there, my friends Lyra and Bon Bon. That's when I
heard the labored pants of a pair of those mongrels, both of them engorged on the
flesh, and muscle of my former friends. I tried to hold back, I tried to maintain
my cover...but the fury...it overtook me. I swung out from my cover, sword held
firm in my jaws as they clenched, and I'm confronted the bastards.

“Who in the hell are you!?” One of them shouted, as he moved to stand, from a small
crate he sat on. “Your executioner.” I said through the hilt in between my teeth.
That was all that was said, as my wings flared open, and I dashed forward. One cut,
that was all I needed, that was all he needed. I took a step back, as I watched
what started as a small cut across his stomach, stretch until it contents of pony
fur and flesh spill onto the ground before him and he fell. The second, he was
smart...he tried to run. I leapt into the air, catching a small updraft that
propelled me forward, as I soared right by him. Dust rose from the dry soil beneath
my feet, as I landed, and turned to look at the now motionless Diamond Dog. His
face...his expression of fear, it was frozen to his face...even after his head fell
from his shoulders to the ground. Blood rained down, as the pressure of his still
beating heart pumped it through his veins, and out the gaping wound.

What happened after that, what happened after was simply...blood lust. I threw
caution to the wind, completely disregarded all rational thinking, and charged head
first. The center of town was the gathering point, they crowded around Big Mac’s
carcass as if it were art, and conversed with laughter. I can’t really say what
happened next...I blacked out...overwhelmed by rage. I can remember the feeling
though, the urge to kill growing, as my thoughts became centered around all I’d
lost. My blade passed through Diamond Dog after Diamond Dog, each kill bringing me
an almost euphoric feeling, each kill causing me to question...is this
vengeance...is this retribution...or is this simply my own twisted desire.
When I was able to think clearly, and regained control of myself, I stood amidst a
pool of blood and organs. The mutilated, and disfigured bodies that surrounded me,
no longer looked like Diamond Dogs...But like chunks of meat loosely held together
by sinew, and patches of skin, and fur. My body, my face, even my mane were dyed
crimson as blood dripped from my body. I felt free, liberated even, as I stood in
the carnage I created. That’s when I heard the final strained breathes of one still
clinging to life, and decided that I had a question for him, and he’d better
answer.

I made my way towards the sound of death, sifting through the bodies, until I came
upon the sorry sight of that dog clinging to life. “You, tell me, where is
Chrysalis?”

“I’ll not tell you a damn thing, you foolish pony, Queen Chrysalis will destroy you
soon enough!”

“Fine, then enjoy the last few moments of you deplorable life.” I turned from him,
throwing a swift kick to his nose, and I smiled as I heard the bones break and
crack.

I left Ponyville that day, after cutting down Big Mac, and burying him...along with
the other pony’s I could find. Once I’d finished... the sun had just begun to set,
buzzards circling up high, as I carried my sword carefully tucked under a wing. I
haven’t been back since, but I hope that final Diamond Dog suffered...until the
very end.
//------------------------------//
// Chapter 3: Westward Bound. //------------------------------//

Loyalty's Vengeance,

Chapter 3: Westward Bound.

The sun. That damnable glowing orb in the sky, bearing down on the
world like a heat lamp. I used to look to that sun and smile, as it’s warmth filled
me, and it’s gentle light made Equestria glow like a beautiful gem. Now though,
that same sun brought nothing but pain, as it hangs there, reminding us that our
princess is gone. There was a time, after the Changeling War, that I thought it
meant Celestia was still alive...still raising it proudly...her message of hope.
Sadly that wasn’t the case at all, our princess would never let the rays of her
gift to ponykind scorch, and decimate the earth as it does now.

That same sun now assaulted my back, with rays that tinged the skin
beneath my ragged coat, and my aching wings. Every breath I took was dry as the
earth I walked on, as my throat begged for water, and my weary soul begged for
rest. How long had I been walking, how long had it been since I left Ponyville a
bloodied mess that offered a fine meal to the scavengers of this uncaring world?
Had it been days, weeks, months...where was I even going?

Ponyville. It haunted my every thought, my every dream. The sight of

seeing so many dead, so many ponys I’d known for most of my life, to know they
would never return. I couldn’t shake the vision of so much death, pain, and
indescribable torment. The emotions I had felt when I was there were so
overwhelming they scared me. I couldn’t fathom carrying so much hate, the burden of
so many souls, but they were now my burden.

I thought about many different things, as I walked the land that

bordered the great expanse of the San Palomino Desert. The sea of sand that
stretched out as far as I could see radiated and reflected the heat of the sun. My
body ached and burned, as my muscles contracted with every step. I would need to
find water soon, it would surely mean death if I were to go without much longer,
and I couldn’t allow myself the sweet reprise of its embrace.

Not yet.

My body grew heavier with each step, the heat of the world beating me
down. I stumbled and feel to the ground, now knowing what tripped me. I struggled,
my brain screaming for my body to move, while my muscles refused and savored the
stillness.

Wait, what was that? Diamond Dogs? I could hear shuffling behind me,
feel the eyes of some unseen assailant watching, as it drew closer. How could I
have been so stupid not to notice? Had I been too wrapped in thought, too focused
on what has already been, that I couldn’t see what was?

Wait it’s not Diamond dogs, those are hooves!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------

Whispers. I can hear whispers, but where am I? I opened my eyes to

darkness, the feel of cold stone under me, and suddenly silence. “Hello, is anypony
there?” I called through my dried mouth, my voice straining and cracking as I
struggled to speak. No reply, not even a sound...what was this?

I had to find a way out, of wherever this place even was, I had to
return to the light. Within this darkness, within this silence, I could feel myself
slipping further and further from reach. The pitch black void of my surroundings
provided the perfect backdrop that my thoughts played across, as I found myself
reliving them in detail.

I rose to stand, and as I tried to move, I felt the pull of cold metal
around my fetlocks. Why am I shackled? What....what the hell have I gotten
into...where’s my sword? I searched frantically through the darkness, trying to
find my weapon, my only means of escape. I was alone, weaponless, and chained
within the darkness...was I going to die?

I was overtaken with dizziness suddenly, as I feel back to my haunches,

a small trickle of blood trailing from my forehead. How hadn’t I noticed it, how
could I not know I was injured? Could my fear have been that great? “Where the hell
am I!” I screamed, slamming my fore-hooves on the stone floor I sat on.

Movement. I heard something move from across the room, the rustling of
chains. My mind raced, my heart pumped, as I tried to calm myself. “Who’s there?” I
asked, shuffling back slowly, until I felt myself press against an unseen wall.

“Rainbow Dash? Rainbow is that you?”

That voice, that weak voice that called to me, I knew the voice...it
was a voice I hadn’t heard in years. “Braeburn?” I replied.

“Oh thank Celestia you’re alive.” He called out through the dark, his
voice weak, his breaths labored. “Chrysalis told us all the Elements were dead, but
I knew it couldn’t be true...so where are the others...are they in here too?”

I swallowed hard, trying to spread what little moisture I could gather

from my own saliva down my throat, as I hung my head. “No...they aren’t here, the
others are...the others are gone, it’s just me now.” I thought I’d come to terms, I
thought I’d moved past this, but still I could feel tears trickle down my face as I
spoke. I couldn’t see his face, I couldn’t see the sheer loss of hope in his eyes,
but I could feel his spirit break as I spoke.

“So you’re telling me...you’re telling me that even Applejack-” His

voice was shaking as he spoke, and I could tell he was to the point of tears. How
long had he been in here, how long had he held onto the false hope that...that we
would come...that Applejack would save the day.

“I’m sorry Braeburn...I’m so sorry.” Of course I was, I was the

sorriest pony to ever live...because I was the one who lived. Applejack, could you
have done better had you survived, could you have rallied the cries of countless
ponies...could you have been the one to save those who died as I sat by and
watched?

I could hear Braeburn prepare to speak, when suddenly a loud clang

echoed throughout the room, and light flooded in. I was blinded by the sudden
brightness, my eyes clenched shut as tightly as I could stand, as I heard voices
call out.

“Well, I see you’ve woken up Rainbow Dash, and I see that our little
hold out has been running his mouth again.” I was still trying to adjust to the
light, when I heard Braeburn’s cries of pain, and the deadening thud of the strikes
that rained down on him.

“Rainbow! Don’t believe them, even though you’re the only one
left...you gotta understand!”

“I said shut up worm! Sheriff Silverstar, take Rainbow Dash to my

office, I’ll deal with him.”

“Rainbow, you’re the only thing we got left to have faith in!”

My eyes shot open, and I saw Braeburn’s emaciated form hanging from the
shackles that held him to the wall of the grey room, and...the wounds that covered
his body. His once vibrant green eyes were now white as snow, blinded by the
darkness he’d been locked away in for so long. That's also when I saw him, that
worthless excuse of a pony, the vile creature that assaulted Braeburn and spread
Chrysalis's influence through Appleloosa...Prince Blueblood. “Braeburn!” I shouted,
when suddenly...everything went black.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------

“Well don’t just stand there you buffoon. Wake her, Silverstar.”

That voice, the unsettling disregard for anypony but himself, the
sickening air of wasted nobility. “I’m awake, you ass.” I said with a smile, as my
eyes slowly opened. “Now where in the name of Celestia have you brought me, and
where is Braeburn?”

“How dare you speak to me in such a manner, peasant!” Blueblood

shouted, as I felt the back of his hoof strike me across the jaw, turning my head.

“Well, what do you know, ole prissy pants here has a decent right
hook.” Sarcasm dripped from my words, as I stared at him, his face showing more and
more anger with each passing moment.

“Hold your tongue, before I have it cut from that rainbow maned
skull of yours!” He shouted once more, striking the other side of my jaw even
harder, causing me to nearly tip over in the chair I was tied to.

“Whoa there big boy, keep this up and I might get a little excited,
and you wouldn’t want that.” I smiled, a small trickle of blood streaming from the
corner of my lips, as I spoke. I took a moment before he could reply to shift my
gaze about, taking in the surroundings I found myself in.

“You trash, you disgust me. To even think that I’d touch you in
such a way!” He was furious, his eyes narrowed, as he pulled back for another
strike.

“I wouldn’t...” He hit me, square in the mouth, knocking the chair

and myself back onto the floor. “You see, I was just going to kill you.” I said,
spitting out a dislodged tooth from the back of my jaw, as I spoke. “But after that
little stunt, I’m not only going to kill you...I’m gonna make you suffer.”

“Well then, I suppose I’ll just have to kill you first...then

again...why dirty my own hooves?” He smiled, as he turned from me, and walked to a
large desk. I returned to my inspection of my surroundings, large desk, fancy
paintings...expensive looking timber used for the floor and walls...this had to be
the mayor’s office. “You see, Ms. Dash, as the acting mayor of Appleloosa, and
personal representative of Queen Chrysalis, I can just order somepony to kill you.”

I took a moment to smile, and think about how I’d totally called
being in the mayors office, before returning my attention back to Blueblood. “You
mean someponies, because it’ll take more than one. I’d start out with at least
twenty if I were you.”

“I should have expected such gloating from the ‘great’ Rainbow

Dash. You’d think after your friends died because of it, you’d learn a little
humility.”

“I will make you beg for death!”

“I’m sure you will. Now Silverstar, remove Ms. Dash from my
presence, I grow tired of her. Oh! Also let it be known that I am not to be
disturbed, I have an execution to arrange.”

“An execution, sir?” Silverstar asked, as I mulled over in my

silent rage, thinking of ways to torture that pompous Unicorn...perhaps impale him
with his own horn?

“Yes, that one deplorable earth pony called Braeburn, I think it’s
time we finished him off.”

“You just keep giving me ammo don’t you Bluebitch?” I was furious.

“Oh how amazingly creative of you, perhaps I can return the

favor...and think of an interesting punishment for your outburst? Silverstar, take
her out somewhere and finish her off, I’m sure our queen would love to know we
killed the last of the Elements.”

“Yes sir.” Silverstar replied obediently, as he took a lasso from

his saddle bag, and lassoed the chair I was still held firm to.

I was dragged out of Blueblood’s office, watching his self centered

smile baring down at me, until the door finally was shut. I wouldn’t be stopped, I
would make him pay...just like those Diamond Dogs. I wouldn’t rest until I cut that
smile off of his royal face, and made him kiss his own ass, although he might like
that, the prick. Silverstar did as he was ordered, dragging me through the halls of
town hall, and out into the dusty streets of Appleloosa.

I was shocked as I took it all in, not one thing had changed, not
one thing looked different. Ponies walked the streets, carried on their lives...it
was like war had never touched it’s borders. I couldn’t believe it, I was at a
loss, and I think Silverstar noticed.

“You see Ms. Dash, this is what happens when you don’t resist, when
you give into change...things end up even better than before.” He said with a
smile, a genuine smile that confused me.

“Yeah I’m sure, now can we get this over with, I have an
appointment with Blueblood and I don’t wanna be late.”

Silverstar sighed, and shook his head as we came to a stop in a

small graveyard, just outside of town. “Well, any last words?” He asked me dropping
the rope he’d used to pull me, before turning to dig through his saddlebag and pull
out a large hunting knife.

“Actually, I have one final request. Could you set me up? I know
you won’t untie me...so if I can’t die standing, I’d at least like to die sitting
upright.”

He rolled his eyes, as he held the knife tightly in his jaw, and
sat the chair back up. “Anything else?” He asked, foregoing any attempt to hide the
mixture of irritation, and sarcasm in his voice.

“Yeah...one last thing...you see, I never got to kiss anypony...and

well...I don’t wanna die not ever knowing the feeling.” I tried my best to play the
shy, sweet girl, as I looked away in faux embarrassment. Silverstar’s face became
flush with blush as I spoke, and I watched in amusement as he dropped the knife to
the ground, his mouth agape. I even felt kinda sorry for him as he leaned in
towards me, his eyes closing slightly as he prepared for a tender kiss, from a girl
standing on deaths door.

“You know what, on second thought...you’re not my type!” I shouted,

flinging my head forward, headbutting him in the nose. He let out a gasping breathe
for air, as his eyes watered, and he shouted in pain. I quickly tipped the chair
over, as I grabbed the knife he’d so carelessly dropped, and cut away at the rope.

“You bitch, I’ll kill you!” He shouted after a few moments. His
eyes went wide with fear, as he finally opened them, and I stood there before him
free of my bindings.

“Yeah well...I don’t think it would’ve worked between us. I mean

you want me dead, and you’re about to be dead...you see what I’m saying?” I didn’t
waste anymore time with words, I rushed him, an drove the knife deep into his
chest. He looked at me, eyes still wide with fear, as I twisted the blade lodged in
his body. “Don’t worry, I’ll be sure to send Blueblood your way, so you won’t be
lonely.” I watched the life slowly drain from Silverstars’ eyes, all the while
smiling, as I felt his heart beat through the knife.

I threw his body to the ground, removing the knife from his chest,
as blood leaked out and pooled beneath him. I wasn’t finished, no not yet. I still
had that idiot Blueblood to go after...and I had to save Braeburn. I wasn’t going
to let another friend die, not when I could save them, not when I knew they needed
me. I took off running, knife clamped tightly between my teeth, as I opened my
wings and soared into the sky.

Within moments I soared over Appleloosa, and saw the crowd of

ponies that gathered around a platform in town square, a platform that held
Blueblood.

“My dear pony’s of Appleloosa, I stand before you today not as your
mayor, but as a fellow citizen of our fair town. It is today that we will put an
end to one who seeks to destroy our way of life, one who seeks to besmirch the name
of our wise, and gracious Queen Chrysalis. I speak of the traitor Braeburn, who
sought to usurp not only her rule as Queen, but my own office of mayor...and send
us into war.” Roars of disdain, and hate, echoed from the crowd as Blueblood spoke.

I was sickened by their blind loyalty, their willingness to believe

Chrysalis was anything other than a tyrant, and their trust in Blueblood. I felt my
heart sink as I saw two large stallions dressed in cloaks bring Braeburn to the
platform, throwing him down at Blueboods’ hooves, kicking him as he tried to stand.

“My fellow citizens, here he is, the traitor that wishes to spread
chaos!”

I watched from the air as Braeburn raised his head, and spit on
Blueblood, inciting a series of gasps from the crowd...and a look of disgust on
Bluebloods face.

“You trash!” Blueblood shouted, as he kicked Braeburn, sending his

frail form skidding back. “Men, prepare him.” He said, before returning to the
crowd. “As your mayor, I see it only fit that this miscreant be punished for such
crimes, therefore he will be hanged until death.”

I watched as the two cloaked stallions grabbed Braeburn, and tied a

noose around his neck, as they positioned him over a panel in the center of the
stage. I watched as Blueblood walked to the lever that sealed Braeburns fate, and
that's when I decided I would watch no longer.

I folded my wings against my back, knife still held firm, as I dove

down towards the stage. Memories flooded my mind, how I had dove at Chrysalis, but
given away my position before I’d struck. I wouldn’t make the same mistake twice, I
wouldn’t allow anypony else to die because of my own foolishness. This time
however, I didn’t have to, as I was struck from the side as I closed in on the
platform. “What the hell!?” I shouted, as I regained control of myself, and
steadied out just feet above the crowd of ponies.

I saw who had hit me, a brown Pegasus with a crazed look in his
eye, who only stared as we seemed to hang in the air. The gathered ponies gasped,
as they turned their attention to the sky, and saw me. That's when I shot a look to
Blueblood, who stood there smiling like he’d won, as he pulled the lever. “No!” I
shouted as I sped off towards Braeburn, hearing the gears beneath him turn slowly,
only to have that Pegasus stop me once more. I watched in horror as Braeburn feel,
the rope around his neck tightening, then suddenly cringing at the loud crack that
echoed out.

“Braeburn...no...I’m...I’m so sorry.” I could feel my tears

swelling inside me, and I could feel the insatiable hatred I’d felt in Ponyville,
begin to build once more. “I will end you!” I screamed as I flung the knife at
Blueblood, and it embedded itself in the platform, only inches from him. I rushed
the brown Pegasus that had caused me to fail in saving Braeburn; I tackled him
midair, and slammed down on top of him as we hit the ground. “I’ll kill every last
one of you!” I shouted as I struck the Pegasus several times, before reaching down
in my frenzied state, snapping one of his wings at the shoulder.

He screamed, as panic spread through the crowd, some ponies ran,

while others weren’t so lucky. I could feel the hooves of those who’d stayed
grabbing at me, trying to pull me from the screaming Pegasus, which only pissed me
off more. I saw that coward Blueblood run into town hall. “I’m coming for you
Blueblood!” I cried out, as my wings lashed out, knocking back those who surrounded
me. “Stop screaming!” I roared down at the Pegasus I still straddled, as I stomped
a fore-hoof down on his throat, silencing him. I stood slowly, staring at the
pony’s who gawked at me wide eyed, and frightened. “You should have run.”

My rage knew no bounds at that moment, as it swelled within me,

bursting forth like a torrential cascade. I turned, swiftly kicking an approaching
Unicorn across his jaw, as a sickening snap echoed out. I swung at him again,
grabbing his horn, snapping it off. He quickly let out a shrill scream of pain, as
I spun around, and impaled the horn into the base of his skull...effectively ending
his life. “Who’s next?”

Those poor fools, rushing me, trying to stop me...they never had a
chance. Another Pegasus, I saw him leap into the air, and quickly dive at me. I
turned, and lined up my shot, when he’d drew in close enough I unleashed a kick
that even AJ would be jealous of. His neck snapped from the force of his speeding
body slamming into my back hoofs, and his body feel to the ground limp as it
twitched violently. How many more would come to meet their death at my hooves? I
could see the fear of death slowly overtaking them, when I was tackled from behind
by an Earth Pony mare.

“You stupid bitch!” I bucked, knocking her off of my body, before

turning and grabbing her. I headbutted her, once...twice...three times, my face
becoming more and more covered by her blood. “Just bucking die!” I shouted, as I
wrapped my fore-hooves around her head, and twisted violently....decimating the
vertebra. I turned, hearing another approach, and swung with everything I had as I
connected with a powerful strike. Teeth flew from the skull of the idiotic
stallion, as he began to fall back, I lunged. I grabbed him, wrapping my fore-
hooves tightly around his waist, as I took to the air, climbing to heights well
above the buildings of the town. In an instant my wings folded against my back, as
I dove nose first, the stallion still locked in my grip. Thirty...twenty...ten. I’d
never dove so close to the ground before. I’d always been cautious, but caution had
not part in the twisted plan I’d devised, as I pulled up at the last possible
moment, slamming the stallion down into two others.

I heard a symphony of broken bones, and screams, as he slammed down

into the others. I landed with a resounding thud, dust encasing me, as I ran
towards the pile of mangled pony’s. I could hear the pained cries of one mare who’d
been unfortunate enough to have tried to fight, as she writhed in agony at the
bottom of the pile, tears pouring down her face. “I pity you, I pity you for the
corruption that has taken hold of you, but I will show you no mercy.” I whispered
down to her, before bringing my hoof down swiftly on her skull, with a gut
wrenching crunch. Blood splattered onto my face and body, it’s scent so different
from that of a Diamond Dogs, but the satisfaction of the kill all the same.

“End it, you bitch!”

I turned my head to see another of my stallion bomb’s victims, his

hind legs broken, the bones breaking the skin. He left a trail of blood in the sun
drenched dirt of Appleloosa, as he crawled away, trying to cling to his life...but
it was now forfeit...forfeit to the victims that had come before him. I walked to
him, and I could see the rapid rise and fall of his chest, the sweat that covered
his brow...the scent of fear. I pressed my hoof down on one of his legs, inciting a
primal scream of ever enduring pain.

“You’d like that, wouldn’t you? You’d like to be free of the

burdens of life, to know the sweet embrace of death.” I turned my head and scoffed,
thinking about those that had fallen, and those that would fall. “You won’t know
the release of death, at least not by my hoof. Take your own life if you want, but
you’re not worth my vengeance.” I twisted my hoof on his legs, as another scream
escaped him, and I left him there.

My full attention was now on the one pony I would never forgive,
the one pony that I would follow to Hell itself, if only to end his life.

I could only think of the ways I would make him suffer, condemning
ponies to a life under Chrysalis’ corruption, and he would pay for each one. He was
a coward, total scum, and I would never forget what he did to Braeburn. I could see
the pony’s who’d fled earlier poking their heads out, trying to see the result of
the chaos they’d escaped, and smiled as I’d see them duck back in as I passed. Why
did I smile? Was I enjoying this madness? Braeburn’s death...could it have been the
final straw? Did my inability to save him, my failed attempt, push me to no longer
care about the depravity that I killed with?

I sighed deeply as I stood at the door of town hall, only this

simple wooden door, the only thing separating me from him. “Blueblood!” I shouted,
as I turned and bucked the door open. “Where are you hiding, coward?”

“Coward? I assure you I am no coward.” He smiled, standing there in

all his arrogance, a fencing saber clenched in his jaws. “I simply wish for some
privacy while I kill you, a chance to enjoy watching your very life drain from you,
as you die by my blade.”

“I will destroy you.” My ears were pinned back, my muscles

tightened, and I darted forward. I was hoping to take him by surprise, to use my
overwhelming speed against him, but I was the one surprised. He moved so
effortlessly, as he turned, grazing my cheek with the tip of his saber...cutting a
small gash across my face. I skidded to a stop, and turned to stare at him with an
odd mixture of anger, and disbelief. He just stood there, tossing his mane back as
he laughed, and stared at me with that condescending gaze of his.

“Ms. Dash, you simply must do better than that. But then again, I
wonder if you can...I mean, I am royalty after all. I’m far above those common
class ruffians you slew outside, and I’ve only gotten stronger with the Queen’s
influence. Why, I don’t even think you can touch me.”

“Yeah, I seriously doubt you’re as good as you think.” I said with

a wicked smile, as he stared at me with a puzzled gaze, when he noticed the cut
that bleed on his shoulder. His eyes went wide, as I just stood there, my eyes
locked on him.

“But...but how, you couldn’t have gotten that close to me, I...I
mean I cut you?”

“Yeah you did, but I got you as well Bluebitch, and without you
even being able to see it.” I paused and lifted my wing, catching the knife that
fell with my hoof, with a smile. “You really should take the time to consider if
your enemy has a weapon. I mean, you should always assume they do, even if you
don’t see it.” I rushed him, he reacted, we clashed. I held the knife tightly in my
jaws, as I pushed against the force of his weight, and tried to push him back. He
didn’t give up though, as he bared down on me, trying with all he had to kill me.
 I brought my hoof up swiftly, landing a harsh strike against his
ribs, buckling his legs as I threw him off balance. I leaned back, making several
swift precision cuts across his body, as blood trickled down each of his legs. He
fell to the wooden floor with a resounding thud, as he stared at me in wide eyed
disbelief, all while I smiled.

“How dare you tou...” I stepped forward, kicking him in the jaw,
causing a chunk of his tongue to be severed between his teeth. He screamed
incoherent words, blood pooling in his mouth, as he spoke. He coughed and gagged,
spurting the blood out between quickened breathes, stray droplets staining my face.

“You don’t get to speak, in fact, you don’t even get to walk.” I
gestured to his legs, as his eyes trailed down each of them, finally noticing the
deep gashes across his fetlocks. “You can’t run, you can’t speak...you can’t have
any hope left.” I walked past him, grabbing a tuft of his hair in my jaws, as I
dragged him towards the door...blood marking the path he drug. I pulled him out
into the street, hearing faint sobs, or at least I think they were sobs...it was
hard to tell with all the gurgling. I pulled him up onto the platform, that
Braeburn still hung from, and released him from my grasp. I pulled the knife I’d
thrown earlier from the platform, as I moved to cut the rope that held Braeburn,
lowering him to the ground gently. “I’m sorry Braeburn, I tried...I really, really
tried.” From the corner of my eye, I saw Blueblood’s eyes slowly start to close,
and turned from Braeburn.

“Oh no, you aren’t getting off that easy. You’re gonna suffer.” I
kicked him in the ribs, causing him to cough violently, sending out another mist of
blood. I took what rope was left, and tied it around Blueblood’s hind legs, before
pulling him into the air. “You’re gonna die slowly, Blueblood. You’re gonna have
time to feel every ounce of pain I inflict on you, every second of which will be
your repentance for those you corrupted.”

He stared at me, and even as death surrounded him, he still carried

that condescending look. No matter what I would have done to him, I still feel as
if it wouldn’t have been enough, no matter what sick things I could have done...he
would not change. “You sicken me.” I started, as I tied the rope off, and let him
hang freely in the air. “I can’t believe you were considered family of Celestia, I
can’t believe you would betray her.”

I sighed as I walked back to Braeburn, and knelt down, closing his

eyes. “Tell AJ and the others I said hi, and I’m sorry, but I can’t see them...not
just yet.” I picked the knife up, that I’d laid at his side, and turned back to
Blueblood. “Can you feel your very life bleed from you?” I asked, as I cut a gash
in his side, causing him to shout. I didn’t stop, I cut another, then another,
walking around him...cutting him at random. I stopped when I saw tears streaming
down his blood soaked face, his chest heaving in a mix of pain, fear, and
hopelessness.

“How much of a coward can you be, sire? At least die like a man!” I was
angry, no I was pissed, how could he so confidently end lives, yet weep like a
child as he saw the end of his draw near? I couldn’t take it, my mind became
crowded with whispers, voices of my past calling to me. I could see them all, as I
held my head between my forelegs, and screamed. The fury was overwhelming, and
suddenly without warning, I found myself embedding the knife I held deeply into
Bluebloods chest. I could hear his lungs rattle, as the last few breathes he would
ever breathe escaped him, and death finally took him.

I turned from the blood drenched corpse that hung there, and went
back to Braeburn’s side, lifting his frail body onto my back. I carried him through
the deserted streets of Appleloosa, and out to the graveyard, where I’d left
Silverstar’s body. I could smell the disgusting scent of his body as I approached,
cringing as I watched the buzzards picking away flesh, from the swollen body of
Appleloosa’s deceased sheriff.

I buried Braeburn out there, I didn’t have any kind of marker, so I

hung his hat from the stick I’d dug into the ground. I wish that I could have done
more, but I still had work to do. I still had evil to destroy. Appleloosa was the
first place to truly open my eyes to the dangers of Chrysalis' corruption, the
first place where I killed a fellow pony, the first place I found myself able to
make a difference. With Blueblood gone, perhaps the pony’s of Appleloosa would be
free of the corruption, or maybe not, I only knew if I stayed...many, many more
would die.

I stayed long enough to fill a few canteens with water, and find a
cloak, to shroud myself from the sun’s rays. I did also manage to find a proper
weapon, a short sword with a scabbard, that I tied under my wing to conceal. Once I
was set, I waited until the sun began to set, following it’s path to the West. I
didn’t know where I was going, I’ve heard Los Pegasus was nice, and I’m sure there
were others there in need of somepony like me. Somepony who wasn’t beyond taking
life, who didn’t mind standing among death, somepony who was the embodiment of
death itself.

I glanced back over my shoulder one final time, staring at

Braeburn’s grave, as the sun cast a golden light upon it. Call me crazy, but as I
stared, I could almost see the light gold Earth Pony smiling...and waving goodbye.
I smiled, as a tear rolled down my cheek, and I turned from Appleloosa. I knew one
day I would return, but not until I could kill Chrysalis, and free the ponies that
called this place home. “See you later, cowpony...I guess I’m gonna carry this
burden.” I whispered, as I walked off into the setting sun, and towards a new day
of death.
//------------------------------//
// Chapter 4: Dreams Of A Simpler Time.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 4: Dreams Of A Simpler Time.

“Now you listen here, RD. Ah know Ah’ve asked things of you before, but you
gotta do this one thing for me.” That voice. That voice calls to me every night.
Whenever I close my eyes, hoping to find some slight reprise from the world, that’s
when I hear that voice call to me, and it makes me think of a time long passed.

“Rainbow, Ah’m serious! Promise me that no matter what, you won’t lose
yourself, that you won’t-”

I won’t what? That’s the moment, the exact placement, that my dream ends.
Is it a dream, or is it a nightmare? A terrible, terrible nightmare, that makes me
see them...makes me see her. The voices that call to me; the voices of Twilight,
AJ, and Princess Celestia. They call to me more and more these days.

Why does my mind play such horrible tricks on me? Why can I still hear
them? Will my heart not accept the truth? I mean, just because I didn’t see them
die like the others, does that make them anymore alive? Then again, maybe...no
Rainbow! You can’t let yourself get drugged into idle fantasy. They’re dead, they
all are. The sooner I accept that the better, but if I haven’t accepted it by now,
will I ever?

How long has it been since that day, the day Equestria died? Three, maybe
four years? That’s a long time to hold onto the dead, but I wouldn’t let go. I
swore that I would avenge them, and if I forget them, then what has all the blood
I’ve spilt been for? So let them come, let the voices of the dead whisper into my
thoughts, so that I may never forget them.

“You there, with the cloak. Remove your hood, and show your transport
pass.”

Then again, looking at the life I’ve been living, maybe their voices were
the only thing keeping me sane?

“I will not ask you again! Remove your hood and-”

“I think you need to calm down, you're disturbing my rest.” I whispered

into the ear of the stocky grey Earth Pony guard, moving from my seat with a speed
that left him breathless, lightly trailing circles with my sword on his chest. “I
mean you wouldn’t wanna get hurt, and I surely wouldn’t want to get this dirty.”

I could see the sheer look of awe in his eyes, laughing, as he ran from the
compartment. I was glad to be rid of the annoyance, it was a pretty good ride from
the outskirts of Los Pegasus to the heart of the city. From all the rumors and bits
of information I could gather, Los Pegasus was left mostly untouched by the war. In
fact, Los Pegasus was the only neutral city in all of Equestria.

After the fall of Celestia, Los Pegasus erected a huge wall around itself,
cutting it off from the rest of society. Of course pony’s were still allowed to
come and go, along with any other creatures that wanted to venture into it’s
streets, the only rule being pure neutrality. When you were in Los Pegasus, you
weren’t a soldier for Chrysalis, or a struggling subject of Celestia. In Los
Pegasus you were just another face, another small piece of a giant crowd; it was my
kinda city.

The tram pulled into the Los Pegasus terminal, and I could hear the hiss of
the steam driven engine, screeching to a slow stop. I cringed as the static riddled
speakers clicked on, and the voice of the tram driver calling out my stop, echoed
throughout the metal compartment. Finally I would get out of this tin box, I’d be
able to feel the breeze, and breath again. Though in hindsight, flying over that
much desert and the wall that encircled the city...yeah, wouldn’t have been much
fun. I guess when you use that logic though, having to ride a tram is the least of
my worries. Plus, I had bigger problems to worry about. The first one on my list: a
certain Changeling Queen, who just had to die.

My thoughts of vengeance, my goal of death, my journey of redemption. I had

given much thought to it of late, wracking my brain constantly, trying to hold on
to what justification I could find. I mean, killing Chrysalis or Discord, yeah that
didn’t need much consideration. They had to die. The others though, more so the
ponies of Appleloosa, the ones I’d left slain in that arid sun drenched place.
Could I really justify killing them? They were nothing more than puppets, under
control of Chyrsalis’ corruption...did they deserve to die? Well, Blueblood
definitely did, but...this is war, and with war comes sacrifice. Those ponies are
not to be mourned, Rainbow. You did what had to be done; you freed them. I sighed
as I stepped from the tram, and felt the cold steel of the platform beneath my
hooves, before gazing out at Los Pegasus.

Well this isn’t quite what I expected, I mean I’m not saying the pipe
covered walls aren’t a nice touch, but this is just not what I expected. Then again
I would come to learn the districts that separated the city, an imaginary line
created to keep the poor from staining the doorsteps of the rich. Sure this place
may be neutral, but how can a city that claims to be so righteous so carelessly
caste ponies in a system that divides them? Well, the politics of one city didn’t
matter to me. Though it did piss me off, I had my own business to attend to.

I had passed through the badlands of the San Palomino Desert, stopping here
and there in small outland tribe villages, collecting bits of information with each
stop. It seems my chosen path to the Los Pegasus terminal had been a fortunate one,
as it lead me to some very shocking discoveries. It seems that the path I’d tread
was a very popular trade route which Queen Chrysalis controlled, and one of her
generals was escorting a shipment ahead of me.

That’s why I had come to this city, I knew exactly how I would send
Chrysalis a message, one that she couldn’t ignore. I mean, nothing sent a message
of hatred better than a general being assassinated, right? That was just the tip of
the iceberg, though, as I was after somepony I despised, somepony who became the
personal student of Queen Chrysalis. This pony threw away all that she ever was,
and willingly became that bugs follower, became her right hoof....I was here to
find Trixie.

It had been a long time since I’d heard that name, and when I’d found out
these things about her great and powerful ass, I could feel every bit of disgust I
had for her before intensify. The one thing I wonder though, how easy would she be
to get to, I mean she was Chrysalis’ personal student. Pffh, I don’t care how hard
it is, I’ll get to her, and I won’t be satisfied until she gives me all the
information I want about the Bug Queen. Now, where do I start?

I made my way through the crowded streets, catching the occasional glance
from a passerby. The ponies I found myself surrounded by, they looked so...broken.
They didn’t seem the same as the ones I’d witnessed in Appleloosa, they had an air
about them, one that I’d found myself encased in more and more...death. Even the
air, as damp and putrid as it was, carried the stench of blood.

I ducked my head down, pulling the hood of my cloak up to cover my face, as

I stepped through a grimy looking door illuminated by neon signs. I nearly gagged
as I was hit by the overbearing scent of smoke, and alcohol, as I found myself in a
small bar. Music played in the background, and could barely be heard over the
constant chatters of the bars patrons, who seemed to be content with ignoring my
arrival. There was a time when something like that might have offended me, but now,
now I was content with remaining unnoticed.

I snaked my way through the small crowded bar, finding an open seat at the
bar itself, when I could feel eyes upon me. I sat there, peering around, from
beneath my hood. Scanning the many faces I saw, yet none of them paid me mind. So
who was watching me? I was so caught up in thought that I was startled by the
sudden appearance of a young cerulean mare, who stood behind the bar with a
friendly smile.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you. Welcome to the Feed Bag, the names
Ruby Lager, what can I get you?”

I was taken aback for a moment, inspecting the Unicorn mare, before
sighing. “Don’t worry about it.” I smiled as I spoke. Wow, it seems like forever
since I last smiled. At least, since I smiled for something other than the
satisfaction of the kill. “I’ll just have a glass of water, please.”

“Sure thing.”

I watched as she turned, raising a glass and pitcher with her magic, and
poured my drink. I offered only an appreciative smile as she sat the glass before
me, and laughed to myself as I watched her dart to the next patron. Was she the one
I’d felt watching me? I mean, I didn’t feel anything malicious...just eyes fixated
on me. I guess I was just letting my mind play tricks on me, somehow making myself
believe I was being watched. That’s when a strange orange stallion took the seat to
my right.

I saw him glance at me from the corner of his eye, before his eyes pivoted
back and forth, as if trying to avoid detection. He slowly reached into the cloak
he wore, as my hoof moved to the hilt of my sword, neatly tucked away and hidden
beneath my wing. He stopped, shooting a quick gaze to my wing, as he shook his head
slowly...and pulled a small envelope out. He placed it on the bar, casually sliding
over towards me, as he leaned forward and ordered a drink.

My eyes immediately searched the bar once more, trying to make sure no pony
was witness, as I carefully took the envelope. What in the name of Celestia is this
about? Some random stallion walks in, sits down, and hands me an envelope...he
didn’t even know who I was. I continued my scan of the bar, as my hooves took the
envelope, and opened it. A letter? Well this just keeps getting more and more odd,
I mean the chances of this even being for me are...

Dear Rainbow Dash,

...well...I guess it is mine.

I have heard many a thing about you, and I have seen first hoof the carnage
that is left in your wake. First off, I know you were in Appleloosa. I know you
killed Blueblood as well. Believe me when I say that he deserved all that you did
to him, and more. Well if you ask me. I know you have come to Los Pegasus for the
general of Chrysalis’ army, and I know you seek out Trixie, and I intend to help
you.

What the hell was this? How did...whoever wrote this get that kind of
information?

The general you seek, goes by the name of Bane Tooth, and he is a vicious
killer. I mean no disrespect when I say this Dash, but you cannot hope to face him
and live...not without my help at least. That being said, we’ll start with Trixie.
There is a temple of Luna sitting dead center in the city, it’s the actual meeting
point of both districts, where Trixie often visits. She’ll be there tonight, along
with five highly trained soldiers...take them out, and she’s all yours.

I had no idea who this pony was, and frankly, didn’t care. All I cared
about was the information the letter had contained. I glanced around, and stuffed
the letter into a pocket of my cloak, before taking a calming drink of my water. I
sat there, as if nothing had happened, casting the occasional glance to the orange
stallion who still sat beside me. Was he the one who’d wrote the note? How did he
know I’d be here? There were too many questions running through my head, as I
closed my eyes to collect my thoughts...that’s when I heard another voice of my
past call to me.

“Rainbow.”

“Twilight?” I murmured to myself over the brim of my glass, as I stared

into it’s watery contents.

“Hey Rainbow, do you remember when we all first met, and ventured into the
Everfree Forest?”

“Yeah, I remember.” As I replied, my surroundings seemed to blur, the

ponies around me just seemed to melt away. Soon I found myself sitting atop a
cliff, looking down at Twilight as she slid down the opposite side. The urge to
rise, and fly to her rescue swelled inside me, as my heart raced. That’s when I saw
her, Applejack, sliding down the cliff with reckless abandon. “AJ!” I shouted, as I
watched her grab hold of Twilight just in time. I saw the kind smile on her face as
she told Twilight to let go, and I nearly cried as I saw a younger, happier version
of myself fly down below with Fluttershy to catch Twi.

That’s when I heard Applejack say those words, the words that made me
realize she was nothing but a true friend. “Now listen here. What I'm sayin' to you
is the honest truth. Let go, and you'll be safe.” Then just like I’d been dreaming,
everything faded to black, and I was back in the bar.

“Do you understand Rainbow? I trusted Applejack that day, even though I
didn’t even know her. Some ponies in this world make mistakes, but when they ask
for something as precious as another pony’s belief...their trust, then they ask
from the heart.”

‘Why are you telling me this Twi?” I didn’t receive an answer, it was if I
was talking to myself, as all I could hear was the noise of the bar. Was I going
crazy? I knew Twilight wasn’t here, but still...I felt like she was right beside me
just then. “I understand Twilight, you want me to trust whoever wrote this letter,
you want me to accept their help.”

I sighed as I stood from my seat, and sat a few bits on the counter, before
turning to leave. I walked out into the freshly crisp night air, and inhaled deeply
as I looked towards the center of the city, and saw the peak of the temple that’d
been mentioned in the letter. Even though it was night, the slums were covered in a
soft glow, as the lights of the upper district shined down on everypony. I could
hear the hiss of steam forcing from the pipe lined walls, and felt an almost
surreal sadness, as I looked upon the ponies around me.

How would my actions affect those I walked among? Would I bring Chrysalis'
wrath down on them all? Would she make them bear the burden of Bane Tooth's death,
as a sick way of punishing me? I couldn't seem to get these thoughts, these doubt
breeding worries, out of my head. How much would I sacrifice? How many ponies would
I let die just to have my taste for vengeance sated? What would AJ do?

“Now Dash, you can’t be thinkin’ like that, you’re the only thing these
ponies got left to believe in. Ah know you know it’s true, and Braeburn knew it
too...he believed it to the very end.”

“I know AJ, but it seems like no matter what I do, I can’t save anypony.” I
could hear Applejack’s voice ringing out clearly in my mind, and just as it had
been when I heard Twilight’s voice, I could feel AJ standing at my side. I should
have known better, and I could feel the onsetting feeling of overwhelming sadness
slowly take hold, but I turned to she if she really was there. Dirty streets lined
with ailing pony’s, streets that ran cold beneath countless hooves, these things I
saw...but not her.

“You may not think it Dash, but to a lot of pony’s, you’re a hero.”

“I’m no hero.” I said in a pained whisper, my head hung low in some self
induced pity. “AJ?” Just like that, she faded away from my thoughts, sinking back
into the inviting world of my memories. I couldn’t help but wonder if I had gone
insane as I made way towards Luna’s temple.

I walked in silence, weaving through the crowded streets effortlessly, as

if I were a predator stalking it’s prey. I drew no attention to myself, as I locked
my mind away in thought planning how I would kill Trixie’s guards, and eventually
the magical mare herself. What punishment would that traitor to her kind deserve?
What tortures could I subject her to? My questions would have to wait, I stopped to
stare at the temple, as I found myself standing at its massive ebony doors.

“Wow! I never really pegged Luna for being the flashy type.” I said with a
smile, before scanning the building for an entrance, when I spotted a large opened
window just above the doors. I spread my wings taking to the air, gliding through
the window, as I landed silently on one of the many rafters. I could see shadows
moving, and blending, as I peered down into the candlelit glow of the temple. Then
I heard that voice, the voice that belonged to that fake magician, the voice of
Trixie.

“Guards! The Great And Powerful Trixie orders you to stand watch!”

Her voice, the pompous tone it carried. It pissed me off. I watched as the
Changelings that escorted her bowed in response, and moved to encircle the entrance
of the temples inner chamber, as Trixie made her way through the large wooden door.
Five guards exactly...just like the letter said. I took a moment to clear my head,
though a letter that has told me where Trixie would be...and exactly how many
guards would accompany her...something just didn’t sit right.

I pushed my thoughts aside, inhaling deeply, as I moved across the rafters

silently. Okay, so there are five, they have their entire front field of vision
well within view, and they’re too close together to take out one at a time. My
options were limited, and no matter how I thought out my attack, I couldn’t find an
easy one. “I guess I’ll just have to use my speed.” I whispered, steading my
breath, as I drew my sword. My heart raced despite my best efforts to calm it,
adrenaline pumped through my entire body, as my muscles tensed with a twisted
excitement.

I dove down, sword clenched tightly in my jaws. I spun, twisting gracefully

in the air, just as I landed. Three of the guards turned to me quickly, hissing as
their wings began beating furiously, before they noticed their two still comrades.
They watched in shock, as their fellow Changelings fell to the ground, their heads
rolling a few feet away. “Well, I guess that leaves three of you bugs left to go.”
I said with a sadistic smile, still gripping the hilt of my sword between my teeth.

They charged me, without warning, without any sign of attack. I was caught
off guard, and sent flying back against the wooden door of the chamber Trixie had
entered. I gasped for air, as I feel to the ground, my sword falling before me.
What the hell had just happened, how wasn’t I able to avoid...or at least block
their attack? I just couldn’t make sense of it, and felt my anger grow, the
familiar feeling of rage slowly spreading throughout my body.

I grabbed my sword once more, rushing head first at the Changeling Guards, as
they sped towards me. I clashed with them, my blade locking with one of them, as we
became trapped in a game of strength. The insect pushing with all he had, trying to
force me back, as I offered him the same. Soon however I felt the pain of a swift
blow to my hind legs, as they buckled beneath me, and I rolled to the ground. My
head turned, and I took in the sight of the two other guards, standing just behind
me. Those cheap bastards, they hit me when I wasn’t looking, the cowards!

I struggled to stand, my hind legs shaking heavily. “I’ll kill every last one
of you abominations! From the lowest worm, to your bitch of a queen!” I roared,
pushing forwards with a burst of speed that even surprised me. I locked blades with
the Changeling again, this time forcing him back, pushing him to the ground with a
resounding thud. His sword rolled from his jaws, I grabbed it with my hoof and spun
around, before throwing it at one of the other guards. I smiled savoring the
moment, as I saw it embed itself in the Changelings chest, watching his emotionless
eyes show just the smallest hint of fear as he died.
 I turned quickly to stare at the Changeling I’d knocked to the ground, when I
heard a sound that I’d learn to associate with death itself...the beating of a
Changelings wings. I looked over my shoulder to find myself staring eye to eye with
the last Changeling guard, the only one I hadn’t killed or knocked to the ground,
the only one that now could...and very much intended to kill me.

I closed my eyes tightly, when I suddenly felt a calming sense of warmth, and
safety. I listened for a moment, my eyes still shut, the sound of wings...gone. I
slowly opened my eyes, and was shocked when I saw both Changelings guards, swords
drawn on either side of me. There they stood still as statues, within inches of
ending my life, frozen by the light magenta aura that encased them. “What in the
name of Luna is going on?” Of course I knew this was magic, I mean I’d spent enough
time with Twi & Rarity, to know what this aura was...but whose magic was it.

“Well Rainbow, I’m glad you hit the chamber door, or else I might have not
come out here.”

Wait...that voice...it can’t be? I was in shock, my mouth agape, as I stared

at Trixie. Her horn glowing with magic, as she smiled at me.

“You might wanna take this chance to finish them off, Rainbow.”

I just stared at her for a moment, studying her face, and trying to see what
game she was at. I didn’t waste the open invitation to kill her remaining two
guards however, as I spun, carving a gash across each of their throats with ease,
before rushing Trixie. I stopped, my sword resting lightly against her throat, but
she just stood there. She stared at me with a quiet determination, as if some
otherworldly force gave her strength to stand her ground, even with her death
looking at her.

“Rainbow Dash-”

“Shut up! Just shut the hell up! Who the hell are you to save me, to call me
by my name, as if we are friends?!” I don't know what angered me more, that she
saved me, or that she spoke to me so casually.

“I’m sorry Rainbow Dash, but if you’ll let me, I’ll explain why I saved you.”

“Oh yeah, so I’m supposed to believe whatever you say...wait a minute? What
do you mean I? What happened to Trixie this, and The Great And Powerful Trixie
that?”

She sighed, closing her eyes, as a faint smile played at the corner of her
lips. “Well, let’s just say seeing your whole world crumble before you, and
watching everypony around you die, makes you see how referring to yourself in such
ways...seem unimportant.”

I was shocked by her answer, even more so because I’d heard her refer to
herself in such a way only minutes ago. “You liar!” I shouted, pressing the blade
against her neck with more pressure. “I heard you barking out orders to the guards
earlier, that sickening arrogance in your voice, acting as if you’re some high and
mighty pony. I don’t even know why I’m wasting time talking to you, you’re nothing
but a traitor, becoming Chrysalis’ lapdog!” What was that just then as I spoke? Did
I just see anger flash through her eyes?

“I am not that insect’s lackey, you idiot!” She shouted, as I suddenly found
myself flung back against the wall, pinned by her magic. “I have reasons you know,
a plan, if you’d like me to explain? Or would you prefer to act like an impulsive
killing machine, incapable of rational thinking?”

I wasn’t in any position to turn down Trixie, as I knew I was helpless in my

current state, bound by her magic bond. “Fine, go ahead...explain yourself.” I was
prepared to listen to some trivial banter about change, then she would try to
persuade me to join Chrysalis, but I wasn’t prepared for what actually happened
next. She was releasing me? I could feel the pressure that ensnared my body lessen,
before feeling the warm stone floor of the temple beneath my hooves, and finally
the full release of Trixie’s magic.

“First off, Rainbow Dash, I am not your enemy...or at least I’m not anymore.
No, there isn’t time for us to hold onto petty squabbles from years past, not when
the biggest threat to ever confront Equestria is upon us, and I hope that you can
understand that.” Trixie was pacing as she spoke, the worried expression on her
face, only intensified her already weighted words. “But first, I’d like to thank
you for placing trust in my letter.”

“Wait, you wrote that letter? How did you even know where to find me? Have
you been watching me?” This...now this was a surprise.

“No, I haven’t been watching you, and yes I wrote the letter. How I found
you...well that was a little tricky. Your element of loyalty, the very one
Chrysalis stripped from you, wasn’t completely removed. While Chrysalis did remove
the most of it, residual energies were left behind within yourself, which left me
to only tune a tracking spell to the frequency of those residual energies.”

“Say what now?” I could barely understand any of it, it was as if I were
talking to Twilight about one of her experiments, as Trixie spouted out
information.

“I used a tracking spell, okay?” She said with a sigh. “Look Rainbow Dash,
the reason I went through all this trouble was so that I could help you. I want to
join you.”

She wanted to what? Trixie’s words sent me reeling, as I thought on them for
a moment. “Yeah, likely story Trixie. This is probably all just part of some
elaborate scheme.Well, I’ll have no part in it.”

“Rainbow Dash, I told you where to find me, how many guards would be with me,
and even saved you. How after that are you going to throw away my offer of help,
even though it couldn’t be more sincere...do you think you’re the only one with
reason to hate Chrysalis?”

“Hate!” I shouted, as I found myself quickly darting to Trixie, our faces

only inches apart. “Listen here, Ms. Magic. Everypony, everything I ever loved was
taken from me, ripped away by that bitch Chrysalis...I don’t hate her...I despise
her with all that I am. You however, you cozied right up to the new Queen, even
became her student, so don’t think your little talk of hate will convince me that
you are not my enemy!”

There we stood, our eyes locked in heated emotion, while a storm of anger and
fury raged in us both. I couldn’t find anything in my heart but distrust for this
pony, and she...well I didn’t know what she was thinking, but I bet I wouldn’t like
it.

“I’ve done horrible things, Dash.” She finally said. “I’ve done things that I
will never forgive myself for doing, and all of it to keep up a facade, a damnable
charade. Do you want to know where I was when Equestria fell, when the beloved
Elements of Harmony were defeated, would you like to know Dash? I was home!”
 The emotions that surged through her as she spoke, I felt as if I could feel
them as well, as if they overflowed from her form and into my very own.

“My family, what little friends I did have...I watched them die slowly,
painfully due to the corruption. My beautiful home of Trottingham, it’s nothing
more than a memory now.” She paused, as I watched in amazement her emotional
display. “I didn’t know what to do at first, I thought about killing myself, I even
thought about trying to hunt down the elements.”

She shot me an apologetic glance, that carried a weak smile behind it,
ashamed at her confession.

“Finally, I decided that I would do something, I would show the ponies of

Equestria that there was still hope, and I would bring down that tyrant Chrysalis.”

“So what did you do?” I asked, finally breaking the air of silence that had
surrounded me.

“I trained.” She said with a smile, her horn glowing for a moment. “Studied
every book of magic I could find, as I made way to Canterlot, and to Chrysalis. I
was finally granted an audience with her, once whispers of my shows reached her,
and I was called to entertain her. Once I finished my show, well I was granted a
chance to speak, and convinced Chrysalis to take me on as a student, to help...ease
her relations with her newly acquired subjects.” She chuckled nervously as she
spoke, obviously seeing the disapproving grimace that was on my face.

“So you used everypony
Chrysalis. I knew this story
turned from her, sickened by
deserve to die by my blade.”
turned back to Trixie, tears
else’s suffering as a way to get in good with
was all lies, you’re still the same old Trixie.” I
the lies that I’d almost believed. “You don’t even
That’s when I felt a gentle tug at my cloak, and
cascading down her face as she sobbed in quiet misery.

“You don’t even understand.” She called out through the heaving of her chest.
“I only did the things I’ve done so I could get Chrysalis to teach me, to train me,
so that I could become strong enough to defeat her. I knew I couldn’t do anything,
not until I had the skill, not until I was at least a fraction of the spellcaster
Twilight was.”

“Twilight? Trixie, what does Twilight have to do with any of this?

“She was...she was my rival, the thing that pushed me to try and become
stronger, the only pony that I really respected. I mean, wasn’t it enough to take
my family, and my home...but did that monster have to take the pony I loved?”

I swear my jaw hit the floor as I listened to Trixies stunning revelation, my

own heart feeling a sliver of guilt, and sadness for her. “Trixie, you mean...you
mean you loved Twi?”

She didn’t speak at first, she simply stared at the stone floor between her
forehooves, as she sat back on her haunches. “I always told myself I’d tell her
once I got strong enough to impress her, but now, I guess that will never happen.
That’s why I did what I did, to gain the strength to make a difference, the
strength to make Chrysalis pay. I’d almost given up hope that I could do it on my
own, then I heard about a rainbow maned pony going from town to town, laying waste
to Chrysalis’ troops. I found my hope renewed at the thought it might be you, and
after some investigating I discovered it was, and convinced Chrysalis to send me
after you.”
 “So wait, Chrysalis thinks you’re running around hunting me down? So what
happens when she calls for you and she doesn’t receive word from you?”

“The only means of watching me she had now lay at your feet dead. So will you
let me help you Rainbow Dash?” She stared at me with her eyes wide, the glistening
of tears still present, but somehow causing her to look all the more innocent.

“Look, I don’t trust you, and as far as I’m concerned, I don’t have any
reason to trust you.” I could see her body language change, as her shoulders
slumped forward, and her gaze was cast back down to the floor. “But help me kill
Bane Tooth, and prove to me that you aren’t Chrysalis’ dog, and I might be more
open to letting you join me.” I couldn’t believe what I had just said, I couldn’t
even figure out why I said it, but then again...Twilight, did you know Trixie wrote
the letter?

I watched out the corner of my eye, still deep in thought, as Trixie tossed
aside her flashy cape and hat. She then took a much more normal looking cloak from
the saddlebag of one of the fallen guards, quickly fastening it around her neck,
before pulling the hood up.

“Come Rainbow Dash, we must make haste, if we are to catch Bane Tooth.” I
watched as Trixie robbed one of the fallen of their sword and scabbard, fastening
it to her back. She looked back over her shoulder to me, I nodded in response, as I
followed her out of the temple into the crowded streets once more.

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 5: New Friends, Newer Enemies.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 5: New Friends, Newer Enemies.

What the hell was I doing? Why was I following Trixie? I couldn’t figure
out why I was doing this. Could Twilight’s words, my words, have caused it? I
couldn’t explain the strange things that had been happening, but I knew one thing,
something was simply driving me on. My lust for vengeance, my insatiable hunger for
death, it made me do many things...but trust Trixie?

I weaved through the sea of ponies that crowded the streets, staying close
to Trixie. I didn’t know what she was planning, but I wouldn’t let her slip out of
my sight, and I didn’t care. My mind raced, playing out scenario after scenario,
trying to prepare myself for whatever may happen. Would she turn on me once we
confronted Bane Tooth? Would she even lead me to Bane Tooth, or was she drawing me
into some sort of trap? I would just have to trust her, place myself in her hooves,
for now at least.

She moved with a quickened pace, the expression on her face, imparting a
sense of urgency. She hadn’t told me where we were going, in fact, she’d only told
me to follow her. I couldn’t really grasp the entire situation. My mind screamed
distrust, shouted for me to simply disappear into the crowd, and let her continue
on alone. My heart, however, told me to feel nothing but trust, nothing but
forgiveness.

Dammit all! Why was I so torn? Why was my entire being a raging
battlefield, seemingly caught in the crossfire of what I knew, and what I believed?
I knew the others were dead, that I was the only one left, but still I believed in
some small sliver of hope. I believed they may still be alive, and that they were
speaking to me.
 Get a hold of yourself Rainbow Dash! The dead can’t speak, no matter how
much I wish to hear them once more, no matter how much I believe. This, this cold
desolate place that used to be Equestria, this was my reality...a reality without
those I’d cared for most. I couldn’t allow myself to slip into bittersweet
thoughts, and lose sight of my goal, which at the moment was a general of
Chrysalis.

I stopped suddenly tearing myself from the world of my thoughts, as I

collided into Trixie, nearly knocking us both to the ground. I raised my head,
rubbing my now sore snout, as I glanced ahead to see why we’d stopped. I was
surprised that we now stood amid a large crowd, gathered before a crafted gate,
Changeling guards all around.

“Trixie, what’s going on?” I asked, my voice low in a whisper.

“Whatever you do Dash, keep your head down, don’t speak.”

“Fine, but where are we?”

I had to admit I was growing frustrated. Maybe it was the fact that I was
being ordered around by Trixie, or maybe because I was sandwiched between so many
ponies. Whatever it was, all I knew was that it irked me to no end.

“We’re at one of the gates separating the upper and lower districts. Bane
Tooth has already passed through the slums, and should be at the trade warehouse
just inside this gate by now.”

“So why don’t we just bust in?”

“Sure, Dash. We could do that, fight the guards, and alert every other
guard within sight. No, we need tact, we need strategy, a plan.”

“Great idea, and lucky for us I have the perfect one. Uh, sorry about
this.”

“About wha-”

Before she could finish I pulled back, and caught her across the jaw with a
swift jab. I stared at her for a moment, a questioning expression broad across her
face. After a few moments of silence she surprised me, as she fired one back,
smacking me right in the snout.

What happened next was simply chaos as Trixie and I began to shove, shout,
and fight. The crowd around us began to move, ringing out with shouts of ponies
calling attention to our fighting, and soon everypony joined in. Trixie and I no
longer found ourselves in a crowd, but at the center of a hurricane, as the ponies
rioted.

“This is your plan Rainbow Dash!? Inciting a riot!?”

“Just wait a minute, horn brain.”

“Horn brain!”

Yeah, that one really got her fuming. I could see Trixie’s horn begin to
glow, and watched as the light magenta hue of her aura spread out, covering her
whole body. Static energies popped, and arched from her, and admittedly...it was
kinda scary.
 “Take that back!”

She shouted as I stepped to the side, my back to the gate that held us
back. I could see the Changeling guards whispering among themselves, no doubt
questioning if they should stop the crowd of rioting ponies before them.

“Oh, you’re glowing. I’m so scared.”

My tone was mocking, as I smiled at Trixie, and she became only more
enraged. She screamed, as the overwhelming aura surrounding her focused into the
tip of her horn, forming a small orb of pure magical energy. I took a step back
seeing the pain in her eyes, wait, pain. I couldn’t find any rage nor hate...only
pain. Had my comment reminded her of some old wound? I didn’t have long to dwell on
this, watching in amazement, as the small magical orb grew.

Silence fell over everypony witness, as Trixie fired the orb at me, it’s size
growing with each moment. I waited, staring at it until its size was easily large
enough to swallow me whole, before soaring into the air. The orb passed beneath me,
colliding with the gate, and the guards that stood watch. The sheer force exuded
from the blast decimated the gate and it’s guards, before sending me reeling back
through the sky, and others flying back across the cold streets. I quickly regained
my composure, leveling myself out from the turbulence created by the blasts
shockwave, and scanned the streets for Trixie.

“Take it back, Rainbow Dash!”

I heard Trixie shout, and saw her standing just below me, tears streaming
down her face. Had I caused that? Of course I had, I was the idiot that insulted
her. I lowered myself to the ground, tucking my wings to my side as I landed,
offering a weak smile to Trixie.

“Look, I’m sorry, but look on the brightside, we can get past the gate now.”

She turned to the gate, and I watched in silent amusement as she tilted her
head, trying to grasp the situation.

“What happened to the gate? And the guards?”

I chuckled softly as I walked to her side, placing a hoof on her shoulder,

smiling even amidst the chaos we’d created.

I laughed as Trixie blushed, finally realising that she’d destroyed the gate,
and the guards with her magic. She turned to me, a small smile on her face, yet
hidden within her eyes a look of determination. We didn’t need to talk, no words
could do justice to what we felt, and what we knew must be done. I couldn’t explain
it, and in all honesty...I didn’t want to.

I searched the chaos of the crowd, as the slum ponies rushed the now
decimated gate, watching the Changeling guards get overrun. I made my break, with
Trixie on my heels, as we ran for the gate. We pushed through, as we slipped past
the ruins of the gate, and soon found ourselves running along the lit streets of
the upper district.

“Trixie where are we going!?”

“Just follow me Rainbow, we’ll have to hurry, I’m sure Bane Tooth will hear
about the gate shortly.”

I ran after Trixie as she weaved through alleyway after alleyway, passing
several warehouses, hearing the sounds of anarchy behind me. I didn’t intend to
start a riot, I only wanted a distraction, but maybe this is what this city needed.
Those ponies deserved equality, especially in this world where we lived, and this
may be their only chance to fight for it.

“Rainbow! Are you ready?”

I looked ahead to see Trixie, still sprinting, looking at me over her
shoulder. I nodded in reply as I felt my heart race, and suddenly, all my worries
of Trixie betraying me flooded back into my mind. I tried desperately to hold back
my fears, fought with everything I had in an attempt to hold onto what composure I
had, as I followed.

Would she betray me? Why would she? She could have easily killed me back in
the temple, and yet she didn’t. Was this all part of some elaborate scheme born out
of Chrysalis’ twisted mind? Step one: get Rainbow Dash to trust Trixie. Step two:
have Rainbow follow Trixie to Bane Tooth. Step three: side with Bane Tooth to
ensure Rainbow’s death. Could I believe such a thing even if it was true?

I didn’t care. Trixie was my only means of finding Bane Tooth, I would let
her lead me to him, and if she betrayed me...I’d slaughter her with no mercy.
Though the thought of killing her, maybe it was what Twi had said, I couldn’t
really bring myself to believe I could.

“Rainbow, we’re here.”

I gazed up at the large warehouse, the dimly lit lanterns around it

flickering, as I stood at Trixie’s side. I shifted my gaze to rest upon her, and
was taken back, noticing the sincere look in her eyes as she stared back at me.

“Let’s go.”

That was the only response that I could muster, as I watched her sigh and
turn to face the warehouse door. Her horn began to glow dimly, shrouding the large
door in her magic, before moving it slowly. I crept towards the door, a hoof moving
to the sword under my wing, as my heart raced with excitement. I didn’t know what I
was getting into, I did know one thing though, I knew there would be blood spilt. I
leaned in front of Trixie, peering into the dark warehouse, seeing shadows play on
the wall from what little light was inside.

“Alright Trixie, are you ready?”

I waited for her to speak, but I heard nothing, not even her breathes. I
turned to look over my shoulder, curse my stupidity, only to find her
gone...vanished. Dammit! She left me here! She left me to fight Bane Tooth, and
whatever guards escorted him alone. I knew I shouldn’t have trusted her, though I
suppose leaving me to fight alone was the least of the things she could have done.

I calmed myself, inhaling deeply, trying to keep what composure I could. I

guess once this business with Bane Tooth is over Trixie will be the next pony to
die by my blade, though I still couldn’t fully imagine killing her. Maybe a part of
me pitied her, whatever it was though, I would burn that bridge once I got there.

I slipped into the warehouse, not bothering to close the door behind me, and
quickly hid behind a large stack of crates. I could hear talking, more like
hissing, as I held my place.
 “General, we’ve just received news that the southern gate was demolished,
those filthy ponies are flooding the streets, the slummers are rioting.”

How dare he speak of them in such a way! How much of a bastard was that guard
to so willingly downtalk others? To subject them to nothing more than being called
slummers? I continued to listen, as I slowly inched towards a small gap in the
crates, and peered through. That’s when I saw him, my enemy, the very insect that
I’d come to exterminate; Bane Tooth. He was tall, nearly as tall as Chrysalis
herself, his body covered in perforations just as every other Changeling. His wings
stretched out elegantly, reflecting what little light there was through them,
causing the polished ebony armor he wore to shine itself.

“Let them. Between the guards and the private security those rich ponies
hired, they’ll take care of the problem for us. Now for more important matters.”

His voice was deep, and it carried a silky smooth tone, unlike any other
Changeling I’d heard speak before. What important matters did he speak of, and why
is he looking over this way?

“I have a guest to attend to, so remove yourself and your soldiers from here.
Isn’t that right Rainbow Dash?”

How!? I was shocked, my chest heaved, and my heart pounded as I heard him
call me out. I stepped from my hiding spot, my sword clenched tightly between my
teeth, staring down Bane Tooth who only smiled. As instructed the guard that stood
at his side passed by me, never even glancing to me as he did, before several
others followed.

“Well then, Rainbow Dash, now that we are alone, how about you tell me why
you’re here, or even more importantly, why you think you can kill me?”

The look in his eyes, the cold calloused gaze that targeted me; it caused me
to shake. I could feel anticipation building in my muscles, fear playing at my
heart, and confidence filling my mind. That’s what I felt at first anyways, before
I saw the azure coated mare who appeared from shadow at Bane Tooth’s side, shame
spread wide across her face.

“What? Did you really think she was your ally, your friend?”

That laugh, the echoing thunderous boom of his laugh, it sickened me. My jaws
clenched around the hilt of my sword, the taste of blood slowly overtaking my
sense’s, as I unknowingly bit into my lip. How could she do this, how could I’ve
been so blind....why won’t he stop laughing!?

I charged, exploding from where I stood with a burst of speed that even
surprised me, and soon was within inches of Bane Tooth. I would end this quickly.
Kill the bug, torture the magician. Yeah, that sounded like a plan. I was shocked,
however, as I felt the steel of my blade clash with anothers, and scowled as I
stared into Bane Tooth’s eyes.

“Why so silent, Rainbow Dash? I always pegged you as one of those braggarts.
You know, the kind that just won’t shut up?”

This guy...he knew just how to piss me off, and that pissed me off even more,
as I put more force behind my blade. What the hell is that? I was suddenly
distracted by the now familiar glow of Trixie’s magic, as I heard the warehouse
door close, and the echo of the massive lock slamming shut. What in the name of
Celestia is she doing? Is she trapping me in here, making sure that I can’t escape.
 “Move, Rainbow Dash!”

I didn’t take the time to think I just jumped back, disengaging myself from
Bane Tooth, as a large crate soared by my head towards the Changeling General. I
turned as I landed and stared at Trixie, her body glowing with her aura, as several
more crates floated around her.

“Trixie! You would betray me, betray you teacher and queen!” The general
hissed, as he slashed through the crate, showering splinters onto the floor.

“I do not betray you, and I do not betray that false ruler Chrysalis!” Trixie
roared back defiantly; shocking even myself. “I can’t betray those I was never
loyal to!”

Trixie’s eyes flashed with rage, as she launched the crates that surrounded
her at Bane Tooth. I took my chance, spreading my wings, as I jumped into the air
and flew behind one of the speeding crates. Trixie must have known I’d do just
that, and I watched as she disappeared in a flash, before appearing just behind
Bane Tooth; sword held in her magic aura.

Bane Tooth slashed through the crates, his movements swift, and decisive.
There was no doubt in my mind that he’d seen battle many times, which only caused
my twisted excitement to swell, and I could see the surprise in his eyes as he
slashed through the crate I flew behind. I soared by him carving a gash into his
right shoulder, as he returned the favor, and matched my attack. I slid to a halt
turning to face him again, the warmth of blood trickling down my right foreleg,
when I saw Trixie clash blades with him. She shot me a gaze from behind the sword
she held, her eyes conveying all I needed to know: attack.

I closed in as quickly as my injury would allow, keeping a vigilant eye on

Trixie, before feeling a sharp pain run through my chest. I skidded back, finally
stopping as I slammed into a stack of crates, a bruise already showing from the
powerful kick I’d received. Dammit! I never would have got sent reeling had I been
paying attention. No! I was so focused on Trixie and how she fared, that I’d paid
no mind to the movement of Bane Tooth’s hind leg.

“Damn the two of you to Tartarus! I’ll see you there myself!” Bane Tooth
spoke, as if his words were fire, as I watched him knock Trixie’s sword away and
send her flying into the wall; a gash spilling blood from her chest.

“Trixie!”

She wasn’t moving, was she dead? Did Bane Tooth land a killing blow? I
couldn’t help but fear for the worst, as I forced myself to my hooves, trying to
fill my lungs with air. I stumbled towards Bane Tooth, as he turned slowly to face
me, his once calm expression now one of rage. I took my sword into my hoof, before
raising it to my mouth, and taking hold of it between my teeth once more.

“I’ll kill you, Rainbow Dash.” He spoke through clenched jaws, his eyes
filled with hate. “I’ll kill you just like your little traitorous friend.”

“Buck you!”

I charged and we clashed blades once more, our movements perfectly countering
the others as we danced; a dance of death, and destruction. Sparks showered through
the air as our blades rang out with each moment of contact, each passing second
bringing only more hatred between us, the scent of blood slowly rising. Brief but
intense flashes of pain shot through my body, his blade carving through my skin, as
I matched each blow. We lept back, separating ourselves, both of us panting
heavily. He was tough. My toughest opponent yet, and I was beginning to doubt I
could come away from this alive, or not. My only bit of peace amid this chaos, was
the hope, that Bane Tooth was just as bad off as I was.

My body was covered in wounds. My coat, and mane stained with blood, both
mine, and his. There I stood before an enemy of great strength, even in this
situation I found myself in, I could take pleasure in knowing I’d caused him pain.
Pleasure wasn’t enough though, no not this time, this time...I wanted ecstasy. I
wouldn’t know that ecstasy, that feeling of pure elation, if I allowed myself to
die now; I had to survive. The more I thought of this, the more the scent of our
blood mixture filled my breaths, and drove me closer to blood lust.

“You’re a skilled fighter, Rainbow Dash, but you won’t defeat me. To a
warrior such as myself, you are nothing more than some wild beast, attacking out of
instinct. Don’t think that I can’t see the blood lust grab hold of you, turn you
into a monster, and make you forget your goal.”

“I’ll destroy you!”

Once again I was blinded by rage, controlled by my hatred, as his words drove
me to the edge of sanity itself. Who was he to say anything? He was a murderer,
working for a tyrant, and praying on the weak. He was scum, the lowest form of life
I’d ever seen, and I would wipe him from existence. My wings flared open, and with
one powerful push, I soared towards him.

The speed with which he moved, how was it even possible...I didn’t even see
him. I fell to the ground with a resounding thud, quickly finding myself in an ever
growing pool of my own blood. Tears filled my eyes as I cried out in pain, and
reached out a hoof, towards my now severed left wing. The pain that ran through my
body was unimaginable, and it was only intensified by the mocking laugh of Bane
Tooth, as he stood over me.

“You’re just a bird with one wing, never again will you fly. You’re just a
bird with one wing, who’ll never know the sky. You’re just a bird with one wing,
and today is the day you die.”

Bane Tooth smiled wickedly as he recited his poem, raising his hoof, as he
prepared to kill me. Even though I was in pain, even though I lay there staring at
my end, I could only feel remorse. I had let them down, I let Chrysalis get away
with her crimes, I let everypony down. I closed my eyes slowly, whispering to
Celestia for forgiveness, as I waited for my demise.

What was that? What was that thud? I opened my eyes slowly, as I took in the
sight of Bane Tooth standing wide eyed in shock. I could see the faint glow of
something in the corner of my eye, watching it move closer, before realising that
it was Trixie. She was breathing heavily, her chest covered in blood, as her horn
glowed.

“She isn’t going to be dying anytime soon. Not if I can help it.”

“Damn you! I thought I’d killed you!” Bane Tooth turned slowly to face
Trixie, when I saw her sword lodged in his back, still gripped in her magic.

“You almost did, in fact you would have, had I not cast a shield spell just
moments before. Now be a good bug, and get squashed.”

Trixies horn gleamed even more brightly, as her sword pulled from Bane
Tooth’s back, and in one fluid movement, severed the generals head. I have to
admit, it was pretty satisfying to see his head roll across the warehouse floor, as
his body fell limp.

“Rainbow, hold on, I’ll help you.” Trixie was quick to move to my side, as
she covered me with her magic, trying to ease my pain. “I’m no healer Rainbow, but
I won’t let you die.”

“My wing. He cut off my wing Trixie.” I was in shock. Trixie's magic was
enough to numb my pain, but I had lost a part of myself, my spirit on the other
hand...it was shattered. I had lost the one thing that made me special. The one
thing that made me almost as happy as my friends, I’d lost my ability to fly. That
was all I could think about, as my body began to feel heavy. My breath’s slowed,
finally I gave into exhaustion, and I embraced sleep.

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 6: The Darkest Depth.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 6: The Darkest Depth

Weightless. I don’t feel anything, not even my own body, as I float in this
void. Darkness encasing all that is, stretching on for eternity, as my eyes
struggle to focus on some sort of non-existent light; there is none to be found.
How did I get here? Why was I here in the first place? I had a war to wage, loved
ones to avenge, and...Trixie. Wait, Trixie! Was she alright?

I writhed in pain; it ran through every inch of my being, as images ran

wildly through my head. They blurred past, projecting themselves into the dark
expanse that surrounded me. Like a movie playing out the very recent details of my
life. I saw Trixie, Bane Tooth...myself. The fear coated the excitement I felt as I
stared Bane Tooth down. The sheer rage I felt at Trixie’s believed betrayal, and
the overwhelming feel of horror when I thought she’d been killed. I watched it all,
my only emotions coming from those resonating within the memories I watched in
silence.

Am I dead? Is this the end of my journey, and if so, was this my punishment
for failing to avenge the fallen? Was my fate to forever exist in this darkness, to
watch the trails of my life...my failures? I’m so sorry guys, I’m so very, very
sorry. I guess the truth is I’ll never see you guys again. I’ll never get to hear
Pinkie laugh, Rarity talk about how she could style my mane for me, or Fluttershy
apologize for no apparent reason. I’ll never hear Twilight lecture me on the joys
of reading, or have her show me the newest edition of Daring Do...then there’s AJ.

Oh dear Celestia, how I miss AJ. She was...well, she was everything to me.
I have to thank Twilight. I mean, if she had never come to Ponyville, then I
wouldn’t have become such close friends with the pony I’d one day love. I won’t act
like it was easy; no, not by a long shot. But one adventure after another brings
ponies together. The distant summer days spent at Sweet Apple Acres, cold winters
spent in a blanket by the fire. I miss you so much AJ. I miss the faith you
instilled in me, and the love that we shared. I still laugh about the day we
confessed our feelings for each other. That awkward silence, as we just stared...I
mean neither of us were very good with talking about our feelings.

“Hey Dash. Can Ah have a word with ya?”

Yeah that’s how you said it, just like that, while I was helping you with the
apple harvest.

“Sure AJ, what’s up?”

“Well, Dash, there’s something Ah’ve been meaning to tell ya.”

The look on your face, that little hint of nervousness in your usually calm
voice...

“Uh, AJ, is something wrong?”

“Oh no! Everythin’ is just fine, Ah just...Ah just...”

I was starting to get nervous, and it didn’t help seeing the blush on your face, or
watching you shuffle your hooves in the dirt.

“Aw, horse apples, this isn’t getting me anywhere!”

That’s when it happened. That’s when you rushed me, I didn’t even see it
coming, and we had our first kiss. If I think about it hard enough, I can still
remember the softness of your lips.

“Rainbow Dash! Rainbow Dash, wake up! Please!”

No! No, I don’t want to wake up! Maybe this place isn’t so bad after
all...not if I can stay in these dreams, these memories.

“This isn’t looking good. She’s lost a lot of blood.”

“I promised her I wouldn’t let her die!”

Trixie...Trixie is that you? What do you mean you promised me? I never
heard you make a promise. Fire. Fire burned through my body once more, as the
memories of those last few fleeting moments surged back to me. Bane Tooth, I
thought he’d killed her. I was blinded by anger, and charged in, giving Bane Tooth
the perfect chance to finish me. My memory is so blurred, so full of pain...what in
the name of Tartarus happened? I can see Trixie, she’s standing over me, protecting
me...the pain...it’s unbearable.

“Dammit, Rainbow Dash! Don’t you dare leave me!”

Leave you? Trixie, what are you saying? It’s not like we’re friends...wait,
are we? What is this, this sudden pounding at my chest? Why am I filled with this
sadness? Wait, this isn’t my own emotion...is this Trixie’s? There it is again. The
pounding, like a dull thud echoing out into the nothingness I’ve become. No, I
won’t allow this. I won’t allow Trixie to suffer as I have, to lose the only friend
she has in this world, to know the sadness of my death.

“You’re not going to believe this, but her vitals are rising. She’s started
fighting!”

“You’re damn right I’m gonna fight.” I said, my dried throat scratching my
words.
I was weak, my body heavy, and I could feel the cold chill of metal under
me. I strained to lift a hoof, searching through the darkness, as my eyes refused
to open. That’s when I felt hooves gently wrap around my own, their touch tender,
full of concern.

“You scared me Rainbow. I thought...I thought.”

“Hey, don’t count me out yet. I mean, I am Rainbow Dash after all.” I said
with a laugh, before another intense wave of pain shot through me.
 “Rainbow Dash, can you open your eyes?” Called a voice that seemed
strangely familiar, and yet so far removed from my memories that I couldn’t place a
face.

Maybe it was my curiosity, or more likely my stubborness. Whichever it may

be, I forced my eyes open. I was blinded by an intense light, my pupils struggling
to adjust, as I could barely make out the silhouette of a pony standing at my side.
After a few moments I could see her, Trixie, trails of tears running down her
face. She smiled weakly, as my attention turned to the bandages around her chest,
and then the sterile room I found myself in.

“Trixie, where are we?”

“You’re at my clinic.”

My eyes shifted quickly to the voice that spoke. I found them resting on a
white earth pony mare. Her mane was long, and shined with a pink hue, as she stared
at me with her blue eyes.

“Nurse Redheart...is that really you?”

She only smiled, before moving to Trixie’s side, and placing a hoof on her
shoulder.

“This one, well, she’s been worried sick about you.” Redheart began before
taking a short pause, a sigh escaping her. “But her worries were not without cause.
You were on the very brink of death when she brought you in, and with that wound
she had...she wasn’t far behind.”

“I told you, I promised Rainbow I wouldn’t let her die. I intended to keep
that promise, even if it meant my own demise.”

Nurse Redheart began to speak, but I cut her off, as I squeezed Trixie’s
hoof in my own.

“Thank you Trixie, but don’t ever let me hear you say something like that
again. My life is not worth your own, but still...I owe you.”

I could see tears building in her eyes, as she smiled at me. The look
hidden in her violet eyes, it said everything. I could see the happiness, the
relief, and yet there was still pain.

“Trixie, go and rest, I’ll take care of Rainbow.”

I watched Trixie nod in reply, before looking back to me. She just stared
for at me, her gaze simply taking me in, and it warmed me. Trixie finally broke her
stare, before turning, and slipping through the curtain that encircled me. That’s
when my gaze shifted back to Nurse Redheart, who sat patiently by the bed, until
Trixie had left.

“That pony. She really cares for you, do you know that Rainbow?”

“What makes you say say that? I mean, not too long ago we were enemies.”

My eyes followed Nurse Redheart as she stood, and walked behind me. I could
feel her touch, even though it was soft, as it brought a searing pain through my
body once more. I flinched, bringing out an apologetic ‘sorry’ from Redheart,
before hearing her sigh once more.
 “I can see it, in the way she looks at you. I could see the desperation in
her eyes, and hear it in her voice when she brought you to me. She was afraid, and
it wasn’t for her own life...she feared you’d leave her.”

“She was afraid that I’d leave her?”

“Yes. You see Rainbow, she finds peace in you, you’re the only surviving
thing of her past. Even though it may have been a past filled with arrogance, and
selfishness. She’s lost everything else that ties her to it. Though I suspect her
reasons aren’t for that part of her past. No, I believe you remind her of a time
when she had family, and a home to call her own. You remind her of a time when
Celestia and Luna ruled this once great kingdom. You remind her of a time when
freedom wasn’t fought over, but was given to all those who lived.”

I layed there in silence, stunned by Redheart’s words. She was filled with
an almost all-knowing wisdom, a wisdom that far overshadowed her age. I couldn’t
completely grasp what she had said, but were her words true? Did Trixie see me in
that way, did I hold that big of a role in her life?
I must have. I mean, she wouldn’t have brought me here if she didn’t, right?

“Nurse-”

“Please Dash, there is no reason for formalities. The way I see it, well,
oh how do I say this? The way I see it, I’m in the same situation as Trixie, when
it comes to you at least.”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re a breathe of fresh air, a wind that blows in from the south, warming
those you touch. You remind me of Ponyville. I can remember all the times I’d patch
you up after one of your ‘little stunts’. Just seeing you has caused me to find
hope, and the thing is that many ponies in this cold world could benefit from that
hope.”

“If you’re trying to say I’m some kind of hero, well, I’m sorry to
disappoint you...but I’m no hero.”

“Dash, you are a hero. The fact that you refuse to see it, the fact that
you see yourself as just another pony, that’s what makes it so. Heros do not seek
out fame. They do not seek to make a name for themselves. No, they simply wish to
help others.”

“I’m not here to help anypony, I simply seek revenge. I may not be a genius
like Twi was, but even I know heros don’t spend their lives seeking vengeance.”

Redheart smiled down at me, as she stepped back around to my front. Her
eyes, those blue eyes, colored by the hue of kindness itself. Those eyes stared at
me, almost as if they searched my very soul.

“Dash...you cover your true intentions. You hide the fact that you only
wish to help others, fooling yourself into believing it’s impossible, by hiding
behind your search for vengeance. I know how you feel, how you wish to make
Chrysalis pay, because we all feel the same way. Your quest for revenge isn’t some
abomination to be questioned and tried at every convenient moment. Your goal is
just, and your will to save everypony you can along the way proves it. You are a
hero, the only hero Equestria has left. So please, don’t let doubt hold you back,
because the day you give up is the day Equestria, our Equestria is lost forever.”
 I couldn’t speak. I couldn’t even begin to form the thoughts of a sentence
in my mind, as I absorbed everyone of Redheart’s words. Thoughts of Appleloosa
flooded back to me. I could see Breaburn, hear his words, the words he called to me
as I was dragged away. He had said I was the only hope left in this world, the very
same words Redheart told me. Were their words true? Was I that important? Could I
do this all on my own? Had all this started as a journey of vengeance, or had it
all been to help others, and I only hid that behind my revenge?

“I know that’s a lot to take in, and I’m sorry if it’s a bit much, but you
must come to accept the simple fact Rainbow; you are our only hope.”

I wanted nothing more than to cry, to simply burst into tears, and wash
away all that was wrong. No, Rainbow. There would be time for tears later, right
now was the time for action. I struggled to lift my body, shouting out, as I felt a
severe pain in my left shoulder.

“Rainbow, don’t, you’re not ready to move! You’re not going to accomplish
anything but ripping open your wound.”

Redheart was quick to my side, and I could feel her touch just below my
left wing...wait...my wing. Another shout rang out as I remembered what had eluded
my thoughts earlier. Bane Tooth, he took it from me. He cut off my wing. Tears
streamed down my face, the pain numbing slowly, as my emotions blocked it out.

How could he!? How could he take my wing? Because of him, because of that
monster, I’d never soar through the air again. I’d never know the crisp feel of the
early morning dew that gathered on the clouds, as I flew through them. Never again
would I chase the setting sun westward, through golden skies, as I saw the moon
kiss the land beneath with its silver rays in the east.

“He took it!”

I shouted, my voice cracking, as my tears fell. Redheart wrapped her

forelegs around me, cradling me as a mother does her child. She comforted me, as I
felt her practiced touch stroking my mane, and her soft voice cooing softly.

“Shh, Rainbow it’s okay.”

“Okay!? This is not okay! He took my wing, stripped me of the only thing I
had left to love. I mean if I can’t fly, who am I? I’m not Rainbow Dash. She was
the fastest flyer in all of Equestria, the greatest flyer period. I’m not her, not
anymore at least. Now I’m just some one winged pegasus who’s lost everything.”

The hope that had slowly started to build within me, the happiness brought
on by Redheart’s words, now seemed to melt away, as I seemed to fade back into the
darkness I thought I’d escaped. I wanted to return to that darkness, to bask in the
bittersweet glory of my memories, and forget that I was now a shell of who I was.

“Rainbow, I promise things will be alright, just please have faith in my

words.”

“I don’t want to live, not without my wings, not without being able to fly.
What kind of life is that for a pegasus?”

“It is the life you have been given. The life that you cannot just throw
away because you are facing adversity. Rainbow, you must rise from these ashes you
find yourself in, and burn bright as Celestia herself. If not for yourself, then
for Trixie, for the ponies who need you...for me.”
 I hadn’t noticed until just then, but Redheart’s white coat was stained
with tears. Her tears. Why was she crying?

“Please, Rainbow, be strong, and if you can’t, then let me help you be
strong. If I’m not able to help you, then let Trixie help you, but please, don’t
let this be the end. You can’t give up, you just can’t.”

I just sat there, and stared up at Redheart. The way she looked at me, the
mix of emotions in her soft blue eyes, they spoke to me in a way that words could
never compare to. I saw within those eyes a mare who’d lost everything, a mare who
was just as hurt as I was. I saw within her moment of weakness the strength that I
would need. She believed in me, she believed with such conviction; I couldn’t even
begin to imagine why though.

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be, just please trust me when I say that I will make this right.”

“You’ll make what right?”

“Your wing, Rainbow. You’ve been unconscious for nearly two days. During
that time Trixie and I have been very busy. We’ve managed to locate somepony who
can help us, who can return you to how you once were.”

“You mean they can get my wing back...but how?”

Redheart smiled, and just as she was about to speak, I saw Trixie appear.

“We can go over the details later, but we have to get out of the city
first, and that’s gonna be a challenge. After our little ‘distraction’ the whole
city has become a warzone. We’ve caused a class war. Nearly everypony in the city
is out there in the streets fighting. Rich against poor, Celestian Loyalists’
against Chrysilian forces. Everypony who can find a reason to fight is out there
right now.”

I couldn’t believe what Trixie was saying. A warzone? We’d turned the
entire city into a frenzied storm of violence? I wasn’t really sure what to say,
but I could feel guilt creeping through me. But that was quickly dispelled by
Redheart, as she tightened her forelegs around me, and offered much appreciated
kind words.

“So, what’s the plan Trixie?”

I was sure if anypony had a plan, it would be Trixie, as she seemed to have
a firm grasp on our situation.

“We wait. As much as I hate to say it, we’ll wait until the fighting has
died down some, then we’ll make a break for the Northern gate. From there we’ll be
taking the tram to the Northern station. Then we’ll take the train to Vanhoover.
Once we reach Vanhoover, we’ll meet with The Mechanic.”

“The Mechanic?”

“Yes, well, that’s what she likes to be called these days, but I’d rather
not say much more about it right now. Rainbow, I want you to know that Redheart is
right, about everything. We need you, probably more than you’ll ever know. So if
you ever find yourself losing strength, then let us help you be strong.”

I smiled as Redheart released me and helped me into a comfortable resting

position. Trixie’s words, and not just her words of encouragement, but her plan.
They both put me at ease, and on top of it, I had a small glimmer of hope to cling
to. I didn’t know who this Mechanic was, but if she could help me fly again, I just
had to trust my friends.

“Thank you both, I mean it. Oh! Wait Trixie, I have a question. What is
gonna happen to Redheart?”

“I believe I can answer that for you Dash.” Readheart spoke up, as she
searched through the scattered contents of a nearby table. “I’ll be joining you and
Ms. Lulamoon. Neither of you have proper medical training, and I can’t exactly let
you both go out into this world knowing that. Plus, you two seem to throw caution
to the wind when you fight, so you’ll need somepony to patch you up.”

I let out a soft laugh as I listened to Redheart, and as much as I hated to

admit it, she was right. I mean, I’d still have both my wings, had I not been so
reckless, and willing to charge into battle blinded by rage.

“So, we wait then?” I asked.

“Yes. We wait and we recover.” Trixie answered this time, her gaze resting
on me once more. “We won’t be any good if we’re injured out in those streets. Who
would protect Redheart?”

“Oh, now don’t worry about me. I may have been taught to heal ponies, but
that doesn’t mean I don’t know how to injure them. I wouldn’t be here right now if
I wasn’t able to hold my own in a fight, now would I?” Redheart asked with a smile.

We all basked in the silence that had fallen over us, after Redheart had
spoken. The only thing breaking through was the occasional gasp I let out, as
Redheart rubbed a healing balm over what was left of my left wing.

“Now rest, Rainbow. We’ll be sure to wake you if anything should come up.”

I nodded in reply to Redheart’s words, slowly feeling the pain in my body

subside, as the balm took effect. I yawned, my eyes grew heavy, as I watched my two
friends smile before me. I felt like I was at peace. Despite all that was wrong,
all that had gone wrong, to simply know that they cared for me so much; it put me
at ease. Another yawn, then my eyes began to close, and soon...I was well within
sleeps comforting embrace.

-Oh look! A conveniently placed timeskip :D-

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I stared out at the burning embers that was once Las Pegasus, as I sat
within the safe confines of Redheart’s clinic. It had been another two days since
I’d awakened here, and recalled my failure, my embarrassment at Bane Tooth’s hoof.
Trixie, Redheart, and myself had spent the time preparing for our escape. The
streets, still flooded by waring ponies and Changelings alike, only grew more
violent. How much longer would we sit here, hiding in the shadows as chaos ran
rampant all around us? Would we even be able to make it out of this?

“Redheart! Rainbow! It’s time. We’re leaving!” Trixie shouted, as she

busted in through the door of the clinic.

I stared at her shocked by her sudden and somewhat startling, appearance.

That’s when I saw Redheart appear from behind the curtain, that divided the clinic.
Her long pink hair, tied back, hanging neatly over her shoulder. While a vest,
covered in pockets, was fitted tightly to her chest. The saddle bags that hung
across her back, filled to the brim with medical supplies of all kinds.

“I’m ready to go.” She said with a smile, as her gaze shifted between
Trixie and myself.

“Buck yeah! Lets get out of this hell hole!” I shouted, as I slung a pair
of saddle bags over my back, taking care not to hit what was left of my wing.

Trixie hadn’t thought to bring my sword with us when she brought me to

Redheart, and so I found myself without a weapon, at least I thought I did.
Redheart had given me a very odd sword, after I’d recovered enough strength to
stand and walk. She called it a katana, and I had to admit, I liked it. She had
told me that it was a relic, a memory of a time long passed in Equestria. It was
from a time of war, and chaos, much like the time we found ourselves in today. Pony
warriors of old would train night and day to master it. Learning to use it’s curved
edge in rhythmic, almost beautiful displays of brutality.

The sheer length of the blade was a bit daunting at first, as it easily
stretched out as long as my body. I had spent the past two days training with the
blade, learning to balance it’s weight in my jaws, and had come to respect it not
as a weapon of death, but a tool of elegance. The way in which I had to move, the
simple, yet timed twists, and turns. They all had to fit, they all had to fall into
an almost perfect rhythm, as each move seamlessly fed into the next. I was in no
way a master of the weapon, but I felt as if it suited me, as if I was meant to use
it. I carried this feeling with a sense of pride, and worth, as I secured it to my
side; just under my right wing.

I smiled as I saw Redheart shoot me a sly grin, as if she’d known I’d fall
in love with this ‘katana.’ I turned to Trixie who stood there, her eyes closed, as
she channeled her thoughts...her every emotion in her being. She was calm,
collected, frightening as she held such peace within herself. I had come to respect
her, even in the short time we’d been allies, and envied her resilience towards the
world around her. Though Redheart had told me several times that her resilience
came from being at my side. I didn’t argue with Redheart’s statement, but I still
didn’t know if it was true. I wasn’t anything special.

“Girls, let’s go.” Trixie finally said after a long silence, as her magenta
aura enveloped her saddlebags, and they moved to her back.

“Come on, you ponies, do you want to live forever?” Redheart asked with a
smile, as she moved to the door of the clinic, with a grace I’d yet to see in her.

That look in her eye. The subtle underlying tone in her voice; she was
ready for war. I was both excited and scared as I watched her. She carried herself
with an air of danger, that opposed her normally sweet nature. The kindness that
occupied her eyes, now replaced by an unshaken resolve that showed only the
determination she held within.

“Well then girls, we’ve only to cross this hellacious madness to reach our
goal; sounds easy enough.” I said with a grin, as I moved to Redheart’s side.

“I couldn’t agree more, Dash.” Trixie added, as she stood to my other side.

We stood there, the three of us, wrapped in silence. We stared out the open
door of the clinic, and watched for but a moment, as the flames of war burned the
city; licking at the clouded night sky. Could we really do this? Could the three of
us just simply head out into this, this horror, and hope to make it out alive? I
didn’t know if it was possible, but damn it all, we were gonna try!
 I quickly found my sense’s overrun by the smell of burning cinder, as the
scent of death flooded every inch of the city. We moved quickly. Trixie took point,
as she had spent the last two days studying the layout of the city, and had plotted
out our path to the Northern Gate. Redheart, and I ran close at her heels. I found
myself disgusted by the sights that surrounded me as we galloped through the city
streets. Bodies were strewn everywhere, both Changeling and pony alike.

The images around us quickly blurred, as the piles of bodies grew greater
by the second. The streets seemingly ran red with blood as we crossed through a
recent battlezone; it’s scars marking the land. Still, we couldn’t stop, we had to
press on.

“Come on girls! We’re not that far away now!”

“Trixie, duck!” Redheart shouted suddenly.

I looked ahead, and saw what Redheart was shouting about, as a small group
of Changeling guards charged us. Redheart galloped past Trixie, grabbing a scalpel
from the vest she wore, and clenched it tightly between her jaws. I pushed my legs
to move faster, as I drew my katana, slightly throwing myself off balance as I did.
Once I’d regained my balance I saw Redheart slash with a blinding speed, making
several precision cuts across one of the guards body, guided by a mind steeped in
knowledge of the body. Then, suddenly, a flash of light, a magic bolt fired by
Trixie, that flew only mere inches beside Redheart; before sending another guard to
death’s embrace.

“Rainbow, now!” I heard Redheart shout, as she spun, and sent the scalpel
she’d held flying through the air; finding rest between the eyes of another guard.

“Gotcha! Hey Trixie, how about a hand!” I called out, just as I saw Trixie
fire another magical bolt, ending the lives of a pair of guards.

“Coming right up!”

I found myself encased in Trixie’s magic, as it seemed to propel me forward

with a blinding speed, and directed me towards the last of the guards. I clenched
the hilt of my katana, barrel rolling as I soared past them with Trixie’s aid. Just
as I reached the first of the four guards, Trixie’s magic dissipated, and I felt my
blade pass effortlessly through his flesh. I hit the ground, skidding on my hooves,
as I used my momentum to turn. I arched my back as I shifted my weight forward,
before kicking off with my hind legs and flipping into the air.

The feeling was incredible. This sword, this weapon, as some would call it.
The way in which it was so perfectly balanced, allowed me to perform such
spectacular feats with ease. I twisted to my right, then to my left before landing
on the ground, closing the short distance between myself and the final guard. I
shifted my weight once more, this time kicking off with my forehooves as I sent
myself flipping back through the air. My sword carving a trail from the guard’s
chest, all the way up his neck, and across his shocked face. I landed softly on the
hard cobblestone streets, and quickly swung my sword down, throwing the blood from
it’s blade. The guards still stood, each with a look more horrified than the one
before, frozen on their face.

“Show-off.” Trixie said with a smile as she, and Redheart, walked by me, as
the guards bodies finally collapsed to the ground.

“Really? You of all ponies are gonna call me a showoff?” I asked with a
smile, and a light hearted laugh.
 I sheathed my katana, and soon found our little group galloping through the
streets once more. We passed through carnage, we passed through the very shadow of
death itself, and despite it all, we somehow survived. Soon I could see the
Northern Gate, as well as the tram sitting in the station, ready to free us from
this hell.

“Come on! We’re nearly there!” I shouted, when I suddenly made out the
silhouettes of several more guards surrounding the tram. “Dammit, looks like we got
another fight on our hooves. You ready girls!?” I called out to the others.

“Let’s take care of them quickly.” Redheart shouted, as I watched her pull
three more scalpels from her vest, and grip them between her teeth. “I’m ready to
make my move.”

“”Don’t worry, Rainbow, I got your back.” Trixie called to me.

Redheart let her scalpels sore through the air, as Trixie guided them with
her magic, and I ran in just behind them. I swung my katana, drawing it in one
fluid motion and cutting down two of the guards with ease. I watched in an almost
dumbfounded stupor as I saw Redheart quickly sink another scalpel into the neck of
a guard, before turning, and tossing a second scalpel into the air, which she then
kicked into the chest of the guard behind her.

“Redheart, get on the tram and start it up!” Trixie shouted before crushing a
Changeling in her magical grasp and throwing him into another guard.

Redheart nodded, and with one final twist, sunk another scalpel into a guard
behind me. “Watch your back, Rainbow.” She said with her usual kind smile, as she
vanished into the tram.

“Trixie, create a forcefield around the tram, and get on.”

“But what about you?”

“I’ll jump on just when it’s about to leave, but until then, protect
Redheart!” Trixie nodded, and did as I asked, as soon I saw her magic encase the
tram in it’s protection.

“Well...now the party can start.” I said with a smile, turning to stare at
the remaining few guards. “So...make a move you bugs. Wait, don’t tell me, you want
to live forever?”

They closed in, and I found myself overcome with not hate, or even the blood
lust I’d come to know...no, this time it was different; I was calm. The sound of
steel meeting steel, the shower of sparks that erupted into the sky. None of it
mattered. I was at peace, and I could feel my body move on it’s own, simply
following pure instinct. I couldn’t believe how free I felt; it was almost like
flying.

I spun, stepped, and turned, easily avoiding my attackers, and effortlessly

deflecting the attacks I couldn’t avoid. These Changelings were different, they
were common soldiers...not the elite guard, and none compared to Bane Tooth’s
strength. With a few quick movements, I found myself standing amid chaos once more,
as blood dripped from my katana. I inhaled deeply as I stood among the bodies of
the guards who’d foolishly rushed me, and once more swung my katana. The blood from
my blade pelted the ground beneath me, before I sheathed my sword. That’s when I
saw Trixie standing at the door of the tram, as her shield slowly vanished, with a
smile.
 “We made it, Dash.” She said, her voice full of spirit, full of happiness.

“No. No, we haven’t made it yet.” I said as I stepped past her, and sat down
aboard the tram. “We got a long ways to go before we see Vanhoover, and I’m pretty
sure it won’t be a smooth ride.”

“What makes you say that?” Redheart called from the conductor's seat.

“Just call it a feeling...and remember one thing, the both of you. For every
life we take, we are not guaranteed victory, nor are we denied defeat. In this war,
this path you two have chosen to take with me, there is only one truth. For each
life you take...You’re gonna carry that weight.”

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 7: Sol et Luna. //------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 7: Sol et Luna.

The distant rumble of thunder. The thickening air, condensing with unshed
raindrops. This was the setting I found myself in, as the tram barreled along the
tracks slowly. I couldn’t help but gaze out the small window by my seat. I took
note of the rolling thunder, the torrential ocean of clouds, streaking out across
the San Palomino desert. I hadn’t really moved much, considering I had so much room
to do so in, actually I’d been staring out the window for a while now. I hadn’t
heard much out of Trixie, or Redheart, for that matter. This was way too quiet, and
I didn’t like it worth a buck.

I rose slowly from my seat, as I pushed a lock of my mane from my eyes.

Silence. Silence was all that I could hear, and then suddenly I heard hoofsteps.

“Trixie? Redheart?” I called out, my breathing quickened, as my heart

pounded.

Something wasn’t right. No more could I hear the distant thunder. No more
could I hear the soft screech of the tram I stood in. I could only hear my own
heart race within my chest, and the ever growing sound of hooves closing in. There
I stood in the aisle of the tram, my hoof slowly moving to the hilt of my katana,
as I awaited some glimpse of the pony that approached.

“Why darling, why ever would you need that?” Called the marshmallow colored
Unicorn mare that stepped before me, her smile innocent, and sweet.

“Rarity! How in Tartarus are you here? I watched you die!?” I couldn’t
believe my eyes, but, there she stood. Her mane, and coat, elegant as ever. Her
well kept tail almost sparkling, even in the dim light of the tram.

“Yes well, I suppose you did. Then again.” She paused, turning from me,
before looking back at me with a smile. “Maybe you didn’t. Now come Rainbow, the
others are waiting for you.”

“Others? What others?”

“Why The Elements of course. We’re going to finish off Chrysalis, once and
for all.”

I found myself caught in the midst of another internal struggle. My heart,

my mind, trying to grab hold of myself. Was this really Rarity? Had she in fact
survived? Had they all survived?
 “Why haven’t you guys found me before now? Do you know what I’ve went
through, and all for you guys?”

“Rainbow my dear, we know, we know more than you may ever truly understand.
So come Rainbow, let us join the others, and we will finish this.”

Rarity smiled at me, but something was wrong. I didn’t see the usually calm
determination that dwelled within her at moments like this, no I only saw hate. Why
would she stare at me with hate filled eyes? Eyes that seemed as if they were
cutting through me, or envisioning sinking a blade into my chest.

“You’re not Rarity.” I finally said defiantly. “You, what, who are you?!”
I shouted, my hoof once again moving to the hilt of my blade. “Answer me dammit!”

“I guess there is no fooling you Rainbow Dash, no I suppose not.”

There was a sudden intense flash of light, and I found myself blinded by
it. When I could once again focus, I nearly fell back with a mixture of fear, I saw
who this being really was.

“Why are you here!?” I shouted, trying to mask my true emotions, as I

watched the Draconequus before me stretch.

“Oh my dear Rainbow Dash it’s been years, lets see where was I again? Oh
yeah now I remember.” He said before pausing, staring at me with a blank
expression. “I was imprisoned in stone, by you, and your little friends. Oh! But
where are they now?” He cackled insanely as he spoke. His blank expression turning
vicious, cruel, and filled with malice.

“Discord, you, you monster!”

“Now, now Rainbow is that anyway to act?” Discord said with a smile, as he
fell back, and seemed to simply lay in the air.

“Why are you here?” I asked once again, gathering my resolve.

“Well I would answer, if I were really here?”

“What?”

“I mean who’s to say you’re really here? Maybe this is all some crazy
dream, born from your shattered psyche? Or maybe I’m some figment of your twisted
imagination?” He replied lazily, as he relaxed.

I was growing more, and more, furious by the second. I mean I didn’t know
if his words were true or not, but I knew I wanted to be rid of him.

“I just wanted to check in on my favorite Element of Harmony, well, the

only Element of Harmony left.” He said with a snicker.

“Shouldn’t you be groveling to your queen, instead of lounging there

harassing me?” I shot back at him, my words laced with well received hate.

“My queen is busy at the moment.” He replied coldly. “She’s is trying to

find out where her prized pupil has gone, as well as, trying to figure out what
started the chaos in Las Pegasus.” He yawned, as a pink cloud appeared under his
head, using it as a pillow. “But don’t worry your pretty, little, striped head. I
won’t tell her you’ve been gallivanting here, and there, laying waste to her army.
Oh! I definitely won’t tell her that her, favorite, pupil has sided with the
enemy.”

I couldn’t believe what he was saying. I couldn’t believe his words, could
I? I didn’t hear any deceit, no arrogance, not even a drip of sarcasm. Was he
really telling the truth? I mean even if he was, which I doubted, wouldn’t he just
turn on me?

“I can see you’re confused, as you should be. We are enemies you know? I
suppose I pity you, or perhaps, it might just be my chaotic nature getting the
better of me. No. I don’t see a reason for you to die yet. Not until I can see how
far, along in this game, you can get.”

“GAME!?” I was furious! Where only moments before I’d been frozen in fear,
my body now boiled with anger. How could he call this all a game? Even something
twisted as he was, had to at least know what decency was. “This is not some game
I’m playing! This is as real as it gets! I’ve watched friends die, whole towns
slaughtered, and taken life! I lost my wing, and for what, to make sure I killed my
enemies!”

He just stared. He floated there, staring at me, mocking me with his gaze.
I was angry. I was filled with hate. Memories flooded back to me, the pain running
through me. I could feel myself on the brink of death, as Chrysalis held me in her
magic bonds. I remember it all. The look on her face, the shear soul crushing
emptiness that ran through me. I had lost it, my element, to that insect. I
couldn’t fight it any longer, and rushed Discord.

“I don’t care if you’re the god of chaos! I’ll destroy you!”

He began to laugh, softly at first, before erupting into a wicked cackle.

“Oh my dear, dear, Rainbow. Remember, you’re only swinging at shadows?”

Just as I pulled back my right forehoof, and swung, he vanished into a pink
cloud. My eyes shot open. My breaths were sharp, and intense. I was staring ahead,
my forehoof planted, into the back of the seat in front of me. I was covered in
sweat, and my eyes quickly shifted to the window at my right, as I once again heard
the cry of distant thunder.

“Rainbow, are you alright?” Redheart called to me, as she appeared at my

side. She just stood there in the isle, gazing at me softly, a hint of worry in her
eyes.

“I’m, I’m fine.” I replied, taking a deep breathe, as I relaxed my body. “I

just had a bad dream, that’s all.”

“Are you sure Rainbow? I’ll sit, and listen, if you wanna talk about it?”

Celestia bless her. Redheart had to be the kindest pony I knew, or at least
she is now...damn, I miss you Flutters.

“Yeah, I’m fine. I promise.” I tried to offer my best smile, to ease her
doubt, but that didn’t work all too well.

“Rainbow Dash. You’ll trust me with your life, but you won’t trust me to
help you with anything else?” She only smiled after she spoke, before letting out a
soft sigh. “I won’t stand here and make you tell me. If you wanted me to know, you
would have told me. I will say this though; you can’t always hold everything in.”

“Thanks Redheart.” What else could I say? She knew something was bothering
me. She knew something was wrong. Still, she knew I wouldn’t tell her, and how does
she respond to that? A smile, kind words, and a moral.

“Remember Rainbow, I’m only one compartment a head, come find me if you
change your mind.” She said, before turning from me. “Goodnight Rainbow.”

I sighed as I watched Redheart walk away, before hearing the faint sound of
the compartment door opening, then closing. I sighed deeply, feeling an almost
serene calmness overtake me, as the moon broke through the clouds; covering me in
it’s silvered glow.

“What a beautiful night.” I whispered to myself, staring out the window,

gazing out over the desert. You’re only swinging at shadows. Just what in
Celestia’s name did that mean? Why am I even thinking about it? Why do I feel like
that has some kind of meaning, or relevance? Why do I hear singing?

I stood from my seat, and looked around the compartment, trying to find the
source of the music; thats when I realized it was Trixie. She was in the
compartment behind mine, and yet somehow I could hear her voice. The melody she
sang was somber, almost sad, each word imparting a sense of remorse.

I made my way down the aisle, following the sound of Trixie’s voice, before
barely opening the door that separated Trixie, and myself. That’s when I saw her.
She was sitting by the window, staring up at the moon, her eyes filled with tears.
I could feel a sinking feeling in my chest as I watched her, and could finally make
out her words.

“To all those children of the night, the sun has gone away. So let us bask in
the silver tides, of Luna’s brilliant beams. For lovers lost, and friends long
gone. Let us embrace the night, and be with them once more.”

I just sat there, peering through the door, as I watched her. The way the
moonlight danced through her mane, and shined on her azure coat. I couldn’t help
but have visions of AJ, sitting in the sun, flash through my head. They were two
completely different ponies, as different as night, and day. Still as I watched
her, I couldn’t help but think that they shared something, they both had a natural
beauty. Wait? Why am I thinking like this? Get your head in the game, there’s no
time to be thinking like this, I have to focus.

“Is someone there?” Trixie called out suddenly, startling me, as I bumped
into the door.

“Uh yeah, it’s just me, Rainbow.” I replied with a nervous laugh, scratching
the back of my head, stepping into the compartment. “I’m sorry if I bothered you. I
was just listening to you sing.” I could see Trixie’s face begin to burn with
blush, her eyes wide, while she stared at me.

“You, you heard that? I’m sorry. I wasn’t trying to bother anypony.” She
looked away from me, as tears began to stream down her face.

“You didn’t bother me.” I said quickly, taking a step towards Trixie. “I
liked it.” I smiled after I spoke, my gaze never leaving Trixie’s moon bathed form.
“Will you sing some more of it? Maybe just a little?”
Trixie sat there, gazing out the window, not even acting like she heard my
words. I sighed, and offered another quick apology, before turning back towards the
compartment door. That’s when I heard her inhale softly, and she began to sing once
more.

“To all those children of the night, the sun has gone away. So let us bask
in the silver tides, of Luna’s brilliant rays. For lovers lost, and friends long
gone. Let us embrace the night, and be with them once more. Dreams of simpler
times, ebb and flow as tides. Now is the time for Celestia’s children to sleep, and
Luna’s to rise. From times of labor, til times we cannot perceive. We shall stay
the children of Luna, for all eternity.” Silence. Silence overtook us, as Trixie
sighed, and turned to me. She smiled. Her magenta eyes, still fresh with tears,
shimmering in the moonlight.

“That was beautiful. Where did you learn it?” I asked.

“My mother taught it to me as a child. My family, or at least one of the

older members, has always served in Princess Luna’s night court. Because of that,
my family swore fealty to Luna. While other ponies were learning about Celestia’s
trials, tribulations, and victories; I was learning of Luna’s. That song, well,
it’s nothing more than a reminder of that. It’s one of the few things I have left.”
She said, trailing off at the end.

I simply continued to stare at her, my eyes locked on her, with an

unwavering conviction.

“Is there something wrong Rainbow?” Trixie asked, arching a brow, with a
quizzical look.

I suddenly realized that I’d been staring at her for sometime, and shook my
head, as I chuckled nervously. “Yeah, everything is fine, why do you ask?”
“Well, I just thought something might be wrong. I mean you do keep staring
at me.”

“Yeah sorry about that, you just reminded me of somepony.” Why did I say
that? Why in the name of all things pony, did I have to open that can of worms?
‘Who would that be?’, I know it’s coming...3...2...1.

“Really? Who?”

“Oh look! I’m right...dammit.” I sighed, as I moved to the seat beside

Trixie, and leaned back. “Applejack. You reminded me of Applejack just now.”

“Well, I’ll take that as a compliment. I wish I’d gotten a chance to

apologize to Applejack. I heard many good things about her, in fact, Chrysalis was
the only person I heard talk bad about her. Then again, Chrysalis talked bad about
all of the elements.”

I scoffed after she spoke, tossing my mane back, before looking at her once
more. “I can only imagine.” I said. My voice dripped with sarcasm as I spoke,
clearly making itself evident, by Trixie’s reaction at least. “Het Trixie, I got a
question?”

“What is it Rainbow?”

“Why me? Why do you wanna follow me around, and help me? I mean, I still
remember what you said in Las Pegasus, I wanna know exactly why though? Couldn’t
you just have easily followed some other pony, or gathered ponies to rally behind
you?” Trixie didn’t speak at first, she just simply sat there, responding with
nothing more than a kind gaze.

“It had to be you Dash. You are the only one I can follow, the only one who
can make a difference, the only one I will follow. I know you’ve heard it over and
over again, but you’re something special. You’re the one who survived.”
 “So it’s because I got lucky, and lived, that you follow me?”

“Yes, and no. I am able to follow you, because you’re alive. I choose to
follow you, because I couldn’t see myself at any others side. Twilight, you, the
other elements; you all were what every pony dreamt of being. You all were heroes.”

There was that word again, hero, I couldn’t understand why I kept hearing
it. I couldn’t understand why anypony would call a failure, like myself, a hero.
Redheart, Trixie, countless others; they all saw me as a hero. Even so, I couldn’t
allow myself to be called such a thing. No. Heroes save those they love, they fight
the good fight, but I couldn’t save anypony. I couldn’t save Twi, or AJ...or any of
them. So why do they keep forcing the title of hero on me?

“Rainbow.” Trixie said suddenly, snapping me out of thought, as I looked to

her. “Rainbow, will you make me a promise?” She said softly, as I was captivated by
the moonlight in her eyes.

“I’ll try.”

“Will you stay with me? Will you let me stay with you? I know I may be
sounding confusing, but I don’t wanna be alone again. I know we have Redheart with
us now, but I just...I just feel like I’d be empty if you weren’t around.”

“Whoa there Trixie. Keep talking like that, and I’ll start thinking you got
a thing for me. I guess I couldn’t blame you though, if you did, I am pretty
awesome.” I smiled after I spoke, and felt sense of peace fall over me, as Trixie
let out a small laugh.
“Well, maybe I do.” She said bluntly, once her laughter had died down, nearly
causing me to fall from my seat.

“Wait! What?” I couldn’t believe she’d just said that, or was I imagining
she’d said it? Either way, I couldn’t find any words to say.

“I’m sorry.” She whispered softly, her eyes locking with mine, as she leaned
towards me.

Wait? What is this? Why am I leaning forward? No, I can’t do this. What about
AJ? What about the love we shared? I couldn’t throw that all away, not for somepony
that I barely knew, could I? I’ve spilt blood with her. Feared the worst, as I
thought she’d died. I was even saved by her, but, was that enough for me to...love
her?

My mind raced, and my heart pounded wildly in my chest, as our lips met.
Soft, they’re so soft, so full of...of life. How was this even possible? Was I so
distraught that I wanted comfort, comfort that could only be found in another's
embrace? Was this betrayal? Did this mean AJ didn’t really mean that much to me?
No! Applejack was my everything! My friend, my lover, the very pony I would have
died to protect! But she wasn’t here, I had failed to protect her...I failed them
all.

I felt Trixies forehooves wrap around me, embracing me tightly, as I closed

my eyes. I became lost to emotion, and not just my own, both Trixie’s and my own. I
could feel every shred of doubt. Every speck of remorse, and sadness, flooding into
my very being; through her silken lips. I followed suit, wrapping my hooves around
Trixie, pulling our bodies closer; until I could feel the beat of her heart. It was
like a steady drum, beating in time, with the melody of our bodies as it’s
backdrop.

“Girls!” Redheart shouted, as she ran into the compartment. “We’ve got a
prob-” She stopped, staring at Trixie, and myself with a sly grin. “Oh I so knew
this was gonna happen.” She said with a laugh, clearing her throat, before her
expression grew serious.

I sat there, arms still wrapped around Trixie, as she and Istared at
Redheart. I was at a loss for words, and had the feeling, Trixie was as well. We
turned to stare at each other for a moment, before quickly releasing ourselves, our
faces crimson with embarrassment. An awkward silence filled the compartment, for
what seemed like an eternity, when Redheart cleared her throat. I turned to look at
her, and saw Trixie do the same, from the corner of my eye.

“As I was saying before I interrupted you two love birds; we’ve got a
problem.” Redheart had no sooner finished speaking, when the tram began shaking
violently. “Damn! I think they’ve boarded the tram!”

“Who’s they?” I asked suddenly, jumping up from my seat, as another wave of

tremors passed through the tram.

“Collectors,” Redheart replied.

“This isn’t good, this isn’t good at all.” Trixie suddenly said, rising to
stand as well. “Chrysalis must know somethings up if she’s sent Collectors.”

Damn you Discord! Was all I could find myself thinking. Then again, that
whole run in with him, hadn’t that all been a dream? What did Chrysalis know
exactly? Did she know Trixie had joined me? Did she know I was alive, destroying
her troops, and kicking ass? That’s when the most important question of all came to
me.

“What the Tartarus is a Collector?” I asked.

“There bad news, I’m talking worst of the worst. In fact, in the world of
Changelings, only Bane Tooth’s elite guard and Chrysalis are stronger than the
Collectors. If she’s sent them, then we’ve pissed her off royally.” Trixie replied,
with a deep sigh.

Suddenly I could hear the sound of metal twisting, and shifting, followed
by bodies slamming into the tram. I was about to speak. About to ask Trixie, and
Redheart, what we could do to withstand the Collectors attack. When the door
connecting Trixie’s compartment, to my own, was ripped away. We jumped back,
pressing up against the opposite wall of the door. My right forehoof quickly moved
to the hilt of my katana, while Redheart reached for her scalpels, and Trixies horn
began to glow.

“How do we always end up in these situations?” I asked. I watched the black

mass that stood at the door, as the Collectors, begin to flood in. Soon, there
stood before us a trio of black clad Changelings, each one looking more vicious
than the one before. The tattered scraps of their, sun drenched, cloaks barely
clung to their bodies. They just stood there, each one, easily as tall as
Chrysalis.

“Be careful girls. Collectors are the assassins of the Changeling

hierarchy, they won’t hesitate to kill you, so don’t hold anything back.” Trixie
said calmly, as I watched her stare down the Collectors.

“Hey, all we gotta do is kill em’.” I said, before taking hold of my katana
between my jaws.

“You certainly have a way of making the, damn near, impossible...sound

possible.” Redheart said, with a grin, as she held a scalpel delicately in one of
her hooves. “So Trixie. How do we beat them?” Redheart asked. Her gaze never
wavering from our enemies.

“Don’t take your eyes off of them, The moment you do...well...just don’t
take your eyes off of them” Trixie said, a small hint of worry in her voice. “Just
keep your eyes focused on the one in front of you, and we might just make it
through this.”

I was about to speak, but suddenly, we found the enemy upon us. The weapons
they wielded, were so unique, I could barely recognize them as swords. The blades
twisted, and bent, like a serpent's tail. They seemed to resonate will a dull hue
of stained blood, and stunk with a putrid odor.

I locked blades with one of the foul creatures. I was surprised by it’s
strength, despite it’s almost skeletal stature, as it was on par with my own. That
disgusting stench that flooded my entire being. That sickening odor of decay, it
was overwhelming, mixed with the scent of rust.

“What in the hell are these things!” I shouted, through the hilt of my
blade, pushing the Collector back. “These aren’t normal Changelings!”

“They’re shadows!” I heard Trixie shout. “The collective consciousness of

fallen Changeling soldiers, who’ve been given form, made from dark magic!”

Wait? Shadows? Remember, you’re only swinging at shadows. Damn you Discord,
damn you to Tartarus. Did you know these abominations were on their way? I don’t
see a reason for you to die yet. Not until I can see how far, along in this game,
you can get. That sick, twisted, bastard! This really was all just a game to him!

“How do we fight shadows!?” Redheart called out.

“Easy!” I shouted, before locking blades once more. “Hack, stab, and slash
until they stop moving! Then stab them a couple more times, for good measure!”

The Collector I fought hissed sharply, it’s piercing tone clawed at my

ears, before it spun away. I stepped back, collecting myself, before having my
katana knocked from my grasp. The Collector had abandoned his sword, which Trixie
told me later was called a Kris, and had knocked mine away with a powerful kick. It
rushed me, closing the small gap between us, with impressive speed. I raised my
forehooves, blocking a powerful strike, as the Collector launched a volley of
strikes.

My body felt each attack, waves of hatred, resonating throughout my entire

being. I wrapped one of my forehooves around it’s, as it struck at me once more,
and landed a strike of my own to it’s jaw. The Collector acted as if my attack was
nothing more than a playful hit, as it suddenly pulled me towards it, and caught me
in the stomach with a powerful upward strike. I coughed, feeling my hind legs
weaken, before being sent to the ground by another vicious strike. I rolled barely
avoiding the, ground shaking, stomp the Collector had aimed for my chest.

Within seconds I was back on my hooves, all be it still shaken, and ready
to fight. I quickly found myself on the receiving end of another flurry of strikes,
as I twisted, and dodged with everything I had, feeling it’s hooves grazing my coat
with each strike. I had to get on the offensive, and fast, if I was to survive.
That’s when I had an idea.

I ducked down, before kicking off the ground, and catching the Collector
with an uppercut. I dashed past the Collector, as it reeled from my attack, and
dove for my sword. I grabbed it, with my hooves, and rolled across the ground. I
brought my blade up, slashing with all I had, as the Collector simply dodge it with
a smug grin. I unleashed an unrelenting series of attacks, pushing with everything
I had, as I tried desperately to kill my enemy.

“Dammit! Just hurry up, and die already!” I roared, as I spun, putting my
entire body behind my attack. I was shocked, as it caught my blade, and left
speechless. Suddenly my hooves began to glow with a magenta hue and I could feel
Trixie’s energy, her warmth, flood into me.

“Hurry Rainbow! I can’t keep the spell up long, not while I’m fighting at
least!” Trixie shouted, as I heard the labored pants of her voice. She was still
fighting, fighting with everything she had, yet still, she did all she could to
help me.

“I’ll try and be quick.” I replied, in an almost low growl, as I stared

into the amber eyes of my enemy. I dropped my blade, hearing it clang against the
floor of the tram, and rushed the Collector once more. Something was different this
time. I found myself on par with it, a flurry of swings, and strikes erupted
between us. I would dodge, block, and counter. It would dodge, block, and counter.
We matched the others moves perfectly, but I could see something, desperation
slowly inching it’s way into the Collector’s attacks.

What was so different? Was it simply the addition of Trixie’s magic, to my

own strength, to my own skill? No. No, it had to be something more. Swinging at
shadows... Wait, that’s it! The Collectors were shadows, nothing more than dark
beings, created by dark magics. The light of Trixie’s magic, it’s very nature, was
a weakness to them; it was the means to defeat them.

“Not so tough anymore
stepping into another strike,
“I’m through playing games! I
another strike, returning the
Collectors stomach.
are you? You pathetic excuse of a bug!” I roared,
sending the Collector sliding back across the floor.
mean, who in the hell do you think I am!?” I blocked
favor, and connecting with an uppercut to the

The Collector rose to it’s hooves slowly, it’s cold gaze locked on me,
while I readied myself. We both charged, otherworldly roars of rage and, hatred
escaping us. The Collector drew closer, and I pushed my legs to carry me faster, as
my forehooves glowed even brighter. “This game, ends now!” I barely dodged the
Collector’s attack, before I shoved my hoof into it’s gaping maw, following through
with burning rage. The Collectors body slammed against the wall of the
compartment , hanging limp, just inches above the floor. I pulled back my hoof,
letting the cursed creature’s body fall to the floor, before watching it burst into
a swirl of shadow.

The aura of Trixie’s magic faded from my hooves, as I sighed, and turned to
see her. She smiled weakly at me, body covered in fresh wounds, and her coat matted
with blood. “I’m glad you’re alright Rainbow.”
She said, before collapsing to the ground.

“Trixie!” I shouted, quickly turning to Redheart for help.

“Damnable filth.” Redheart said, standing over the body of the Collector
she’d slain; though it looked more like a pincushion with all those scalpels in it.
I was shocked, and slightly impressed as it’s body burst into shadow, and the
scalpels fell to the floor. “That was almost easy.” Redheart said, with her usual
kind smile.

I was left dumbfounded. I was covered in bruises, Trixie was covered in

wounds, and Redheart looked as if she’d barely broken a sweat. Suddenly I was
snapped from my thoughts, as I heard Trixie cough, and I called to Redheart.

“Redheart! Trixie’s hurt!” I could see the smile fade from Redheart’s face,
as she hurried to Trixie’s side.

“We have to hurry and stop the bleeding. My dear sweet Celestia, how did she
get so beat up? Was she not even paying attention to her opponent?”

I hung my head, casting my stare to the floor, as I sighed. “No she wasn’t.
She was too worried about me.” I said weakly, shame filling my entire being.

“Rainbow, go and get my saddlebags from my compartment.” Redheart replied.

“And Rainbow!” She called, as I turned from her. “Don’t worry, Trixie will be
okay...I promise.” She said. Her kind smile returning once more, before she turned
her attention back to Trixie.

I ran towards Redheart’s compartment, quickly grabbing her saddlebags, and

returned to Redheart. I sat the saddlebags at her side, and watched nervously as
she began cleaning Trixie’s wounds. Please Trixie, please be alright...Will you
stay with me? Will you let me stay with you? I know I may be sounding confusing,
but I don’t wanna be alone again. I know we have Redheart with us now, but I
just...I just feel like I’d be empty if you weren’t around. How can you just say
something like that, ask that of me, and then leave? Just stay with us Trixie, stay
with me...

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 8: Solace In Despair
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 8: Solace In Despair.

“Is she going to be alright?”

“Yes, but we have to be watchful of her. That Collector she fought, it

worked her over pretty bad.” Redheart said, before pausing, with a sigh. “And as
much as I hate to say it Rainbow, she did overexert herself, maintaining that spell
she was using on you didn’t help any.”

“I know, I know, but she’ll be fine right?”

I was nervous, caged by some unseen force, as I stared at Trixie. She just
laid there, her breaths slow and even. Why was she even here? Why was she even in
this position? Why had I let her push herself so hard, and for what, to make sure I
was safe? She’d said back in Las Pegasus, that she’d give her own life for mine.
Well, she was pretty damn close to giving it. I thought I was stronger than this! I
thought I could protect those that I knew! I thought...I thought I could protect
the ponies I cared for! Damn you Rainbow Dash! Damn you for your weakness; you’re
pathetic!

“Rainbow, don’t beat yourself up over this. Trixie cares for you, that’s
very apparent.” Redheart paused, before offering me a kind smile. “She didn’t want
to see you get hurt. She didn’t want to take the chance to lose you.”

“She’s an idiot.” I said suddenly, as small beads of tears rolled down my

face. “Why would she die just so I could live, that’s selfish, then I’d be alone
again.”
 “Dashie.” Redheart cooed softly, as I felt her forehooves wrap around me.
“I know what you mean when you say you’ll be alone again but, I want you to
remember, I’ll be right here at your side; ready to help you.” She said, squeezing
me gently. “Now, I’m going to see what can be done, about the gaping hole in the
side of the tram.” Redheart let go of her comforting embrace, and moved to the door
of the compartment we’d placed Trixie in, smiling the whole time. “I’ll check on
you later Rainbow, but do try to get some rest, until then.” With that Redheart
slipped out of the compartment, and from my view.

What should I do? How can I help Trixie, is there anything I can even do? I
had only my thoughts to occupy the, empty, silence that hung in the air. “This was
all my fault.”

“Well, you are right about that one.” Called an all too familiar voice.

“Why are you back?” I asked the Draconequus that floated just behind me. I
turned from Trixie my eyes falling on Discord, as he lounged on a pink cloud.

“Well isn’t it obvious? You’ve fallen asleep.” He replied, pulling a glass

of chocolate milk from the cloud. “I mean it’s really the only time I can talk to
you, but that’s a story for another time; yes another time indeed. Now! Back to
business.” Discord raddled on, between drinks of his milk. “I came to check on you,
to make sure those ‘nasty’ Collectors hadn’t bested you, and here you are. Isn’t it
wonderful!?”

“Wonderful! Trixie is on the verge of death! Too weak to even be

conscious!” I shouted, while anger boiled in my very soul. “This is not wonderful!
This is-”

“Enough, enough, stop whining. The fact of the matter is simple; you were
too weak to protect her. Seriously, you almost got beaten, if Trixie wouldn’t have
helped you, then you’d have been KO’d; game over.” I watched him throw the empty
glass over his shoulder, and as it hit the ground it didn’t shatter, but turned
into a duckling.

I sat, dumbfounded, for a few minutes. His words had cut me worse than any
blade, because they were lined with something, something I had come to deny lately;
truth. The duckling hadn’t helped much either, but it was more...odd, than totally
disheartening.

“I...I...”

“Hurts doesn’t it? Hurts knowing that you can’t do anything, while those
around you fall, but survive.”

“It’s not like I wanted this to happen!” I shouted back, tears streaming
down my face. “It’s not like I wanted Trixie to get hurt!”

“But it’s your fault she did! Your weakness caused all of this!” Discord
shouted back, before his cloud vanished, and he stepped towards me. “You’re a
failure to your friends, to Equestria, and to yourself!” Discord said, his eyes
locked on mine.

What did he know? Why would he even care? He was on the winning side, that
insects side. Who was he to say such things, such hateful things, but then
again...who was I to say they weren’t true?

“Leave.” He said suddenly his face blank, his voice cold. “You don’t want
to see Trixie get hurt, nor Redheart, and the only way to make sure they don’t, is
for you to leave.”

“Why are you doing this to me?” I asked, falling to the floor in despair.

“You have a destiny, a higher purpose, that you cannot fulfill.” He paused
for a moment, glaring down at me sternly. “This world is pure chaos, disorder,
anarchy. You think that I’d be absolutely ecstatic about this, but the grim truth
of it is this; Chrysalis will burn this world to the ground.” I listened in
disbelief as Discord spoke, and watched as he sighed. “She and I are two different
sides to chaos, and believe it or not, I’m the lesser of the two evils.”

“Then why don’t you stop her?” I asked suddenly.

“It’s not my place to do so, never was, and it never will be.” He said with
a shrug. “You however...you will be Equestria’s emissary of change, as it is your
destiny.” He turned from me, and began to chuckle, before bursting out into full on
laughter. “I’ve said it before, but I’m still your enemy Rainbow, and you should
never see me as anything other than that.” Discord shot me a quick glance over his
shoulder, a mischievous gleam in his eyes, as he began to fade away.

“Wait a damn second!” I shouted after him. His laughter still echoing.

“You think you hate me now, wait until you wake up...then you’ll know true
hatred.” With that Discord vanished, and I found myself panting, covered in sweat
at Trixie’s side.

A dream? Was it all a dream? Discord had said I was asleep, that he could
only speak to me while I slept, but still, it all felt so real. I couldn’t help but
wonder, as my eyes drifted down to take in Trixie’s blanketed form. She looked so
peaceful, so at rest, as she lay there. The way her hair rested gracefully on her
pillow, barely covering her face, while her chest moved in rhythm to her breathes.
“Wait until you wake up, then you’ll know true hatred.” What did he mean?

~~~~~~The next day~~~~~

The first rain, it’s soothing scent, and it’s melodic rhythm. The rain brings
with it a surreal calm, a state of rest, and a longing for peace. That same rain,
falls before me, now nothing more than a reminder of my sorrows. Rain. Rain is
pouring down on this world. The sun hidden behind a sky of dark clouds, that sings
out, with the song of thunder. Why did this happen? Why did it all have to be this
way? Are we so powerless, so insignificant, that no matter what, we can’t even
dream of standing against the trails of this world?

Equestria, this wasteland it has become, is nothing more than a carcass

festering with each passing moment. The sun bleached bones of those dead, and those
who will die, will be all that stand the test of time. Time, the one thing we
always seem to have too much of, until we realize that time can end. This
realization comes to us all, once we see change, when it’s often too late.

Is it too late? Will time drive me away, or will you return from the edge?
What can I do to help, what could I possibly do, to repay you? Dammit! Somepony,
anypony, give me an answer!? Trixie wake up! Please don’t leave me. Please don’t
let me be alone again, don’t let me wander this place in solitude. I-I’m scared.
I’m scared to walk through this twisted, dark, world without you. Please Trixie,
I’ll stay by your side. So please, don’t leave mine.

“Rainbow, dear, are you alright?” I heard Redheart call from inside the tram
door, as I sat just outside.
 “I’m fine.” I wiped my eye’s quickly, hoping to brush away any tears she
might see, before turning to face her. “I’m fine, just watching the sky.”

“You wish you were up there in that sky, don’t you Dashie?”

“I do. I wish now, more than any other time before, that I could soar through
the sky above. I just want to fly away, to leave it all behind, and remember when
life was worth living.”

“Do you not think it’s worth living now?” Redheart asked, as she stepped to
my side.

“Everything, everypony, is gone.” I said, staring off into the distance,

before closing my eyes. “What’s left...I mean, is there anything worth fighting for
anymore?” I asked, as I looked to Redheart. She smiled, as she turned from me, and
sighed softly.

“Only if you think you’ve found something worth fighting for.” Redheart
paused, after she spoke, before moving towards the tram door.

“Wait.” I called, reaching out for her. “I’m sorry. I’m...I-I’m just scared.
I’m scared that I’ll lose you, Trixie, and everything I’ve come to care for.” My
voice trembled as I spoke, my body fighting back tears, as I closed my eyes. “I
lost everything once, we all have, but I feel like I’ve lost so much more.”

“Tell me then Rainbow. What is it that you lost?” Redheart said, with her
usual kind smile.

“I’ve lost my love, my home, my friends. I watched as Luna was turned to

stone, and heard her last shouts, before her sapphire coat turned to marble.” I
could feel my will give in, as tears slowly started streaming down my face, and my
memories flooded back. “I’ve lost my hope, my element...and my wing.”

….

“You really are pathetic, aren’t you?” Suddenly called an all too familiar
voice.

I opened my eyes to the sight, and sounds, of battle. The scent of blood was
thick in the air, and bodies lined the ground beneath me, causing my body to tense.
“What’s going on!?” I shouted, as I stared into the eyes of Chrysalis.

“You’ve lost! Your little rebellion has failed, and once again, the bodies of
thousands lay at your hooves!” Chrysalis said, her voice full of venom, as she
struck me down. “I can’t believe I ever thought of you as a threat. You pathetic,
broken, element.” Chrysalis laughed, moving a forehoof to rest on my throat, as she
stared down at me. “Don’t worry now you can be with that Earth Pony, and that
traitor Trixie!”
….

“I’ll kill you!” I shouted, swinging my forehooves wildly, as I pushed myself

up. “I’ll drag you to Tartarus with me!” I felt cold air rush across my face, my
eyes darted open, and I was back on the tram. I was alone, and in my cabin. My body
was drenched in sweat, I felt nauseous, and my head throbbed in pain. What’s
happening to me? Was that all a dream?

“I can assure you it wasn’t real.” Discord called to me suddenly.

“What are you doing to me!?” I shouted.

 “I’m doing what must be done.”

“Driving me insane? I’d sooner just let you kill me!”

“Who said anything about driving you crazy?” I turned quickly as I saw
Discord take form at my side. “I’m simply trying to help you, although...I’m more
so helping myself. Don’t worry yourself about the details.”

“Am I...am I still dreaming?” I asked suddenly.

“Why yes you are, in fact, you’ve been dreaming.”

“What?”

“You’re actually still in the same dream from before, or perhaps, this is the
original dream. Who’s to say? Now I’m sure you’re wanting out of here, and I
completely understand, but I can’t allow that.” Discord said, as he floated into
the air, and vanished.

“Please...please just let me wake up.”

“I can’t, well actually I could, but then you wouldn’t learn anything.”
Discord suddenly appeared upside down, above me, his eyes locked with mine.
“Remember that whole business I said about destiny? Well this is me giving you a
push in the right direction, or maybe the wrong direction, really just depends on
how you proceed.”

“What do you want from me?” I asked, my head hung low, as I cursed Discord
beneath my breath.

“The question is what do you want from yourself? Usually that’s an impossible
question to answer, even more so for myself, but that doesn’t matter.” Discord
sighed, before an idiotic grin spread across his face. “I’m giving you the chance
to answer that question. This world of dreams I’ve sealed you in, is well, it’s all
created from your memories. Here you may see what has happened, and what may
happen...based off your own thoughts, and fears of course.”

“So you expect me to find the answer, to a question, that I don’t even know?
I hate you.” I said with a drawn out sigh.

“As you should. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have chaos to spread about.”

I watched as Discord vanished once more, and sat there in silence, awaiting
him to call back out to me. Minutes passed, and I sighed in frustration, as I
finally stood from the bed. What am I going to do? How am I gonna get out of this?
What answer am I seeking, and for that matter, what is the bucking question!

A world of dreams, created from my memories, why would Discord seal me in

this place? What was the answer he wanted me to find? I couldn’t help but wonder as
I paced about the tram.

I stopped, inhaling deeply, and I cleared my mind. I could feel a change, a

shift, as my vision drifted in and out of focus. The cold steel of the tram was no
more, the low rumble of the engine vanished, and I found myself standing in
Ponyville.

“What in Celestia’s name is this?” I asked allowed, as I gazed upon my former

home. The streets were bare, devoid of all life, and yet it was still perfect. No
chaos. No death. This was Ponyville in it’s prime, in a time of peace, in a time
long gone.

“This is what you wanted to see.”

I turned quickly, as I heard a voice call out to me, and was left speechless
as I stared at myself.

“W-what kind of madness is this?” I watched as my other self chuckled softly,

and took a step towards me, as her form became basked in light.

“Madness? No Rainbow, this isn’t madness, this is fate.”

I couldn’t move. I couldn’t speak. I could only watch in disbelief as her

black coat reflected the sunlight. Her mane, my mane, deprived of it’s rainbow hue,
replaced by different shades of crimson. The thing that scared me most though were
her eyes, that stared at me with murderous intent, full of hatred.

“F-fate?” I asked, as I absentmindedly reached for my katana.

“Are you afraid Rainbow? Afraid of what I am?”

“I’m not afraid!”

“Liar!” She shouted. She rushed me, sweeping my hooves from beneath me,
slamming me to the ground. I gasped, stunned by her overwhelming speed. That’s when
I noticed...she still had her left wing.

“You lying filth! You can’t even be honest with yourself!” She roared.
“You’re afraid Rainbow, you’re terrified, because you can’t understand what’s going
on.”

I could feel my heart race, my body trembled, under the weight of this dark
incarnation of myself. I couldn’t speak though, I couldn’t do anything, all I could
do was stare into her soulless eyes.

“You were supposed to be something! You were supposed to evolve!” She yelled
before sighing. “You were supposed to become everything I am, and you almost did
it, but you couldn’t let go of the past.”

“Let go. LET GO!” I roared. I pushed myself up, planting my back legs into my
other selfs stomach, forcing her off of me. “I was never given a chance to let go!
My life was ripped from my hooves!”

“Stop your whining!” She shouted before knocking me back with a powerful
strike. “Wasn’t that why you’ve done all this!? Isn’t that why you’ve come so far!?
Because you wanted revenge for that life you lost!?”

“I never wanted revenge for my own sick pleasure! I wanted to avenge those I
lost!”

“You wanted blood for blood! You’re just too weak to admit it!” She pulled
back throwing another swift blow, and stared at me with a sick smile, as I met hers
with my own. Our hooves slammed together, resonating energy from their impact, and
suddenly Ponyville was gone; replaced by Canterlot during the Changeling siege.

“Just think back you coward, and remember, why do you fight?”

“I fight for those who no longer can! For those who never even had a chance!”
I was furious, enraged by my dark counterpart, as I readied myself for a fight.

“They died, they all died, and you’re the one who lived. Why won’t you just
admit why you fight? Why you crave battle? It’s not for some kind of justice, or
vengeance, you seek death.”

I was caught off guard by her words, and even more so by the kick she threw,
as I was sent flying through the gate of Castle Canterlot.

“You had abandoned all that love, and friendship, will save the world
bullshit. You had learned to crave the bloodlust that consumed you, found pleasure
in the death you left in your wake, and became the monster that Equestria would
need to survive.” She moved to stand over me once more, and stared down at me,
before throwing several kicks to my ribs.

I yelled out in pain, as I felt my ribs crack, and blood began to drip from
my mouth. “Why are you doing this to me?” I asked. My breaths were strained, my
chest heaved, and I could feel my body growing heavy.

“Look at you. You’re pathetic.” She said. Her voice full of malice, hatred
dripping with every word, as she spat at the ground. “You’ll never leave this
place.”

I could feel tears streaming down my face, my chest burning with an intense
pain, while I struggled to stand. “I will leave this place. I will return to
Redheart, to Trixie, to Equestria.” I said through blood soaked coughs.

“Why bother? You’ll only end up failing them?” She called as she turned from
me, and began walking towards the castle courtyard.

“I’ll return to Redheart so she can always remember what life was like,
before all of this, when our princesses still ruled.” I called out as I stood.
“I’ll return to Trixie so she’ll never have to be alone, so she’ll never know the
pain of loss, to face the horrors of the world with her.” I could feel my legs
steady with each word and the pain in my chest subside. “I’ll return to Equestria
and fight for it, fight for all those who still have hope, because I’m the only one
who can!”

My body became covered in light as Canterlot melted away, and I found myself
surrounded by the San Palomino Desert, my dark half simply smiling. That’s when I
realized that my wing, my left wing, had regrown.

“Things are about to get fun.” I said with a smile.

“Finally, we can agree on something.”

We stood there, surrounded by sand, as we stared the other down. I could

feel the familiar anticipation of battle surging through my body, but this time,
this time it was different. This time I didn’t fight out of selfishness, or the
guise of justice, this time I fought because I knew I must....because I was the
only one who could.

We launched, both soaring high into the sky, and I was overwhelmed by the
almost now foreign feeling of the wind against my coat. We collided, matching each
other blow for blow, as a flurry of strikes rained between us. The very world
around us rippled from the force of our strikes, sending shockwaves resonating, as
my body tensed with excitement.

My very life was on the line, along with those who still needed me, as was
the future of Equestria. Only I could save my home. Only I could restore it to it’s
former glory, and make sure that Chrysalis came to justice, but first; I had to
beat my own darkness.

“Be careful Rainbow!” She shouted.

She caught me across the jaw with a swift hook, sending me flying back
through the air, before I spun around to regain my balance.

“Why do you say that?” I asked, as I hovered in the sky.

“Because if you lose now, then you’ll never leave this place; but I will.”
She darted forward, unleashing a devastating combination of attacks, as I fought
with everything I had to put her words out of my mind.

“I won’t let that happen!” I shouted. I grabbed her throwing a vicious

headbut, sending her reeling, that echoed out with a sickening crack.

“You bitch!” She roared. She shot up higher into the air, disappearing into
the glare of the sun, before diving down and grabbing me. “I’ll make sure you never
leave this place!”

We slammed into the ground, sand flew into the air, and she rained down
strikes on me. I held up my forehooves, desperately trying to protect myself,
before planting my hind legs into her stomach, and forcing her off me once more.
She skidded back across the sand as I pushed off the ground, a small trail of blood
trickling from my mouth, and tackled her.

“Buck you!” I roared as I slammed my hoof into her stomach. “I’ll never let
you leave this place! I’ll never let you unleash whatever the hell you are on the
world!” I swung again, and again, landing strike after strike. I stratled her,
using the weight of my body to hold her down, as I connected with punch after
punch. She smiled, she only kept smiling, as I continued to beat her.

“Why! Won’t! You! Stop! Smiling!” I roared. I stood, throwing her over my
shoulder, before taking hold of her.

“I guess you aren’t so pathetic after all.” She said, as she continued to
smile, before I was sent flying back.

I yelled out in pain, as the world around us transformed once more, I slammed
into the remains of Luna’s Temple, and I took in the sights of Las Pegasus during
the pony riots.

“You’re stronger than I thought.” Dark Dash said as she slowly moved towards
me. “But you still haven’t learned a thing. Just because you realized you’re the
only one who can fight, doesn’t mean you’ve found a reason to fight.”

“Yeah you’re right.” I said. I stood slowly, flexing my wings, spitting up a

bit of blood. “But it’s a step in the right direction, the first step to finding
out what I want from the remains of this bucked up world, and the first step
towards kicking your ass.” I said with a smile.

“You know I almost feel bad about having to destroy you.” She burst towards
me, the ground beneath her seeming to warp from the sheer force of her speed.

I smiled as she reached me, and we locked, my hind legs dug into the earth
beneath as she pushed me back. I pushed back, my wings spreading behind me, causing
her to smile even more wickedly. I dropped down, falling back as I pulled her
towards me, and sent her flying over me. I sprung back to my hooves, as I watched
her turn mid air, catching herself with her wings, and I rushed her.

I tackled her once more, wrapping my forehooves around her, as we slammed

through the walls of the temple, and traded a few well placed strikes.

“Let go of me!” She roared. She reached down, grabbing me around the stomach,
as she lifted me, and slammed me head first into the ground. She threw a swift kick
to my body, sending me rolling across the floor of the temple, before I jumped up.
I rushed back at her, as we clashed in the center of the temple, pushing each
others strength to it’s limit.

I turned, taking hold of her forehooves, and slammed her to the ground,
planting my hoof firmly across her throat. I stared down at her, breathing heavily,
while she stared back at me.

“Why do you fight Rainbow Dash?” She asked of me calmly.

“I fight because I must, I fight because I want a world of peace, I

fight...because I want to save Equestria.”

“Well, well, it seems like you found your answer Rainbow.” I heard Discord
call out, and turned to find him, sitting upon Luna’s altar.

“Why are you back?” I asked calmly, moving my hoof from dark dash’s throat,
and turned to him, as she stood.

“I’ll get to that, but first, did you have fun playing with your shadow
self?” Discord asked with a wicked smile.

I started to speak, when my dark half stepped between us. “Listen here
Discord, goodie goodie over here may not have the guts to do it, but I’ll kill you
right here and now if you don’t leave.”

“My, my Dash, your darker side has quite the temper. Lets send her away so we
can speak, in private.” Discord raised his scaled hand, and snapped his fingers, as
my darker half suddenly vanished. “There, that’s better, now where were we?”

“Wait!” I shouted, as I took a step towards him. “What did you do with her?”

“Are you worried about her? Well don’t worry your little stripped head, she’s
still her, she always will be.” He replied with a grin, as he pointed to his black
heart. “She’s that rage you feel every time you fight, the bloodlust that consumes
you with every battle, and she’s the hatred that burns in your very soul.”

“Is there no way to be rid of her?”

“Nope, I’m afraid not. She’s just as much a part of you as you are her, and
theres nothing you can do about it, but anyways back to business.” Discord sprung
from the altar, and landed before me, with an impish smile. “So what have we
learned?”

I sighed deeply as I leaned back and sat down, before looking to Discord once
more, sickened by his smile. “I’ve learned that it has to be me that saves
Equestria, that restores balance, and stops the beating of Chrysalis’s black
heart.”

“Good, that’s a start, but what else have you learned?”

 “I learned that I don’t fight because I have to, but because I want to,
because I want to save Equestria.”

Discord smiled, and leaned back, as he stretched his arms out. “Well it seems
like you’ve learned all you needed to know, but that’s only a small part of it, now
you need to apply what you’ve learned.”

“So you’ll let me return? You’ll let me wake up?” I asked, trying to hide the
excitement I felt.

“Yes, once I leave you this time, you will wake up in the real world.” The
smile that had been broad across Discords face only moments ago, was now gone, now
replaced by a look of sadness. “This will be the last time I visit you Rainbow, so
remember what I’ve tried to get you to learn, because you will need it in the
coming days.”

I stared at Discord as he spoke, looking at him with more confusion than ever
before, wondering what he meant. I was thrilled to be rid of him, as he was my
enemy, the very creature that lead those filth that attack Ponyville. Still, his
sadness troubled me.

“One day you will know that which I cannot tell you, but until then remember
one thing; I am your enemy.”

I watched as the world around me vanished, Discord slowly faded from my view,
and I could feel a familiar warmth spread through my body.

….

I could suddenly feel the warmth of the sun against my face, as the soft
rumble of the tram returned, and the weight of my body against my bed. I opened my
eyes slowly, smiling as I took in the sight of my cabin, before feeling something
move at my side. I rolled over, my vision blurred slightly from the light around
me, and was met with the sweet scent of Trixie. She was there, at my side, cuddled
up to me with a smile. I could only smile myself, burying my face into her mane,
while I basked in the warmth of her body.

This was real. I was finally back, my nightmare over, after what felt like an
eternity. This is why I fight for this mare at my side, who filled a void that I
thought would never close, for Trixie. I denied being a hero so many times, despite
so many calling me just that, but I just couldn’t believe it. I have to believe it
now, I have to accept that very title, because I have to be the one to save
Equestria. I have to be Equestria’s hero, the hero to all those who still have
hope, and protect those I love with everything I am.

“Rainbow...you’re awake.” Trixie whispered.

I looked at her with a smile, before leaning forward, kissing her cheek
softly. “Yeah, I’m awake, but you still need rest.”

“I love you Dashie.”Trixie smiled, as she nuzzled her face against my neck,
and kissed me happily.

“I love you too Trix.”

I’m the hero Equestria needs, and now, I’m finally prepared to be that hero.
For now though I think I’ll stay in bed just a little longer.

//------------------------------//
 // Chapter 9: A Bittersweet Symphony
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance
Chapter 9: A Bittersweet Symphony

Vanhoover… It seems like it’s taken an eternity to reach here. Trixie, Red
Heart, and myself… We finally reached this place. We’ve fought our way here through
Changelings, Collectors, and everything else Chrysalis has thrown at us. I can’t
believe I’m now standing here, with the only ponies that matter anymore at my side,
staring out at the grand city by the bay.

“Rainbow?” Trixie called out suddenly, breaking me away from my thoughts.

I shook my head and turned to her, smiling. “What’s up?”

“Are you alright?”

“Yeah, of course, why wouldn’t I be?”

“Well you’ve just been rather quiet since we got here. Do you have
something on your mind?”

“Not really. I’m just glad that we’re finally here.” I continued to smile,
kicking a pebble into the water of the bay. I stood watching the ripples, recalling
something Apple Jack once told me. “No matter what Rainbow, every road will lead
you to what you want in life, but the road may not be easy.”

“Are you sure you’re alright?”

“Yeah.” I turned to Trixie, smiling as I stared at her. “So, any word from
Red Heart?” Red Heart had left Trixie and I here some time ago, as she had set out
into the city, scouting for potential threats. She had also mentioned making
contact with The Mechanic.

“I haven’t heard anything yet, but we shouldn’t let our guard down. We may
be in Vanhoover, far from the chaos of Las Pegasus, but we’re still not safe.
Chrysalis has agents everywhere.”

“Yeah, I know. This place just seems so peaceful, so far removed from the
chaos Equestria has become.”

“Yes, it is a nice change of pace.” Trixie replied, stepping past me and

looking out at the water. “However, this is still a city controlled by Chrysalis.
She only allows this peace as a way of keeping the ponies here in check. She could
cast this city into turmoil, and scorch it with flame; If that is what she wished.”

“Careful Trix, you’re sounding like a servant of Chrysalis,” I teased,

inciting a fit of blush from my azure companion.

“W-what? Don’t be absurd. I don’t speak out of admiration. I speak as one who
has seen her strength, and simply speak out of respect for that strength.”

“How can you respect anything about her?”

“I told you, I became her student so I could study, and become stronger. One
of the ways I did that was by studying books from the royal library. I came across
many books of war, surprisingly. One of them stuck with me. It spoke of honor and
duty, of trial and tribulation.”

I sat listening to Trixie intently, smiling as she went onto a Twi-rant.

“One thing that stood out most though, was a passage that said one must
acknowledge and respect the strength of your enemy. If you allow yourself to only
focus on your strength, and disregard the strength of your foe, then you are a
fool. Know your enemies strength, and aim to surpass it.”

I thought about Trixie’s words, watching her as she stood there, herself
deep in thought. “I guess I can see where you’re coming from. If we just ignore
Chrysalis’ strength, it doesn’t make her any weaker. If anything , it makes us
weaker, because we’re seeing our strength as being superior.”

“Exactly.” Trixie smiled. “It’s not about respecting who Chrysalis is, but
respecting the strength she has.”

I was about to speak, when I heard the sound of hooves drawing closer. I
turned and saw Red Heart smiling as she drew closer to us. “Hello girls.” She
called out.

“Glad to see you’re alright. Find out anything interesting?”

“From the looks of things this city has a small number of Changeling
forces. Being as this city willingly surrendered, Chrysalis didn’t bother sending
an invasion force. In all I would say the number of Changelings here is around two
hundred soldiers, along with a handful of elites.”

“That’s far less than I had anticipated.” Trixie mumbled. “Even without
sending an invasion force, Chrysalis would have sent plenty of guards to quell any
kind of uprising.” She paused, thinking for a moment. “There has to be more.”

“What are you saying, Trixie?” Red Heart asked.

“Chrysalis knows she’s powerful, and knows that any city that would willingly
surrender could potentially become a threat. She most likely thought out a scenario
in which the city surrendered to save it’s strength. If that were the case then she
knows it was an attempt to conserve strength so a force could be gathered to rebel…
More than likely the number of guards is somewhere near five hundred strong, with
close to a hundred elites.”

“I had no idea you were such a keen strategist, Trixie.” I said, almost
dumfounded.

“Know your enemy, Rainbow. The Changelings main strength is the ability to
change form, their most deadly art subterfuge. Chrysalis sent so few guards as a
sign of good will, and in doing so was able to plant even more soldiers in disguise
throughout the city.”

“If that’s the case, then anypony we encounter could very well be an enemy in
hiding.” Redheart replied, setting back on her haunches. “Though there is no way of
knowing… not unless you can force a Changeling to reveal their true nature.”

“Well we can’t very well go about fighting everypony we come across. We’ll
just have to move carefully and keep our heads down.”

Trixie and Red Heart stared at me after I spoke. Both giving me a look of
intrigue, before smiling and looking to the other.
 “I must say, Rainbow, those are rather wise words, for the situation we find
ourselves in.” Redheart said with a smile.

“They are indeed, and we should do just as Rainbow said. We move with
caution, but we can’t draw attention to ourselves. So Red Heart, any word on the
Mechanic?”

My attention focused on Red Heart, waiting for her to answer the question
Trixie had asked her. It was the very question I had wanted to ask her, but I
didn’t want to appear excited. I was trying to push away the feeling, trying not to
work my hopes up… but if I could really fly again…

“Indeed.” She replied, with a smile. “We should probably make our way to meet
with her.”

“Her?” I asked. “Does this mean you actually talked to her?”

“Well, yes and no. I spoke with her representative. It would seem that the
Mechanic is a Celestian Loyalist, and operates in shadow, so as to avoid providing
assistance to Changeling forces within the city.”

“Well, what are we standing around here for?” I beamed, no longer caring
about hiding my excitement.

Red Heart and Trixie stood there. They chuckled as they saw my face light up
and heard the excitement in my voice.

“Very well,” Redheat replied. “Follow me, and try not to draw attention to
yourself. Rainbow, you may want to pull the hood of your cloak up.”

“Why?”

“Well, how many other rainbow maned ponies do you know of that are trying to
usurp Chrysalis and save Equestria?” She smiled.

I could feel my cheeks flare up with blush, and chuckled as I pulled my hood
up. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. Now lets go.” I looked to Trixie, and she nodded
in reply, as we followed Redheart towards the center of the city.

Vanhoover. Such a beautiful city, a jewel that reflects the ebb and flow of
the water’s edge. Even though this city had surrendered to Chrysalis, it was a
place I found comfort and wonder in. I craned my neck up, looking at the buildings
tall enough that they dared to touch the sky, while the glass sides shown brightly
in the sunlight.

“Trixie, can I ask you something?”

“What is it Rainbow?” She replied, looking to me.

“Well… is Celestia dead?” I asked bluntly.

She looked taken back, and I could tell she was searching for what to say,
before she finally sighed. She stopped, staring at me with the most defeated look
I’d ever seen. “Yes, Rainbow. Celestia, our princess, is dead. She died at the
hooves of Chrysalis, not many days after the siege of Canterlot. Chrysalis had her
imprisoned, and tried to force her to surrender, but she would not falter in her
devotion to us all. Finally Chrysalis, tired of her refusal, put her to death.”

I couldn’t believe what Trixie had just said, and I cursed myself for asking
such a question. I had hoped, had wished that Celestia was still alive, but now I
knew she was gone. I looked to Red Heart, who was on the verge of tears and quickly
turned from her.

We continued on in silence, before Trixie cleared her throat. “There’s still

hope for Equestria, though.” She said suddenly. “Even though Luna is imprisoned in
stone, she is still very much alive.”

“I guess that’s the silver lining, isn’t it? One princess is dead, but we
still have one that lives.” I sighed.

“Indeed. Freeing her isn’t difficult, she’s bound by the same spell that she,
and Celestia cast on Discord. Which as you may remember was broken… twice. The
problem will be getting to Luna.”

“Where is Chrysalis keeping her?” Red Heart asked, suddenly chiming in.

“Chrysalis has her on display in the royal garden, upon the same pedestal
that Discord himself once rested upon. Basically, if we wanted to free Luna, we
would have to go into the heart of Canterlot, and of Chyrsalis’ forces.”

“We’re gonna need some help,” I mumbled.

“Which is why we’re here,” Trixie replied. “We get help with your wing, then
focus on finding help. Despite Chrysalis’ best efforts, there are many resistances
scattered about Equestria. We simply need to bring them together.”

“And that’s where I come into play, right?”

“Right you are Dashie,” Trixie smiled at me.

“Okay, well, sounds easy enough. I have another question though? If Celestia
is dead, and Luna is still imprisoned, then how does the sun and moon continue to
rise and set?”

“Chrysalis.”

“What!? She doesn’t have that kind of power… does she?”

“No, she doesn’t. Well, she didn’t. She needed a catalyst to increase her
magical abilities enough to control the sun and moon. Which she found by taking the
crown of Celestia.”

“You mean she’s wearing Celestia’s crown?”

“Indeed.” Trixie replied.

“We’re here.” Red Heart suddenly said.

I turned my attention from Trixie and put our conversation in the back of my
mind as we stood in front of a large building. It was a simple brick building.
There were a few windows that had been covered from the inside, and I could hear a
loud thud echoing from inside.

“What the hell is this place?” I asked.

“Just follow me.” Red Heart smiled.

Red Heart opened the door of the building, and we were met with thunderous
music and flashing lights. We stepped inside, and I was quickly thrown off guard by
the hundreds of ponies gathered in this place. They all danced about, laughing and
drinking.

“Red Heart?” Trixie, and I both looked to Red Heart, who only smiled and
hummed along with the beat.

“It’s rather catchy, one you get past the ear splitting bass.”

“You’re damn right it’s catchy!” Suddenly a white unicorn mare dropped down
between us, causing us to fan out and ready ourselves for a fight. “Whoa there!
Maybe you guys aren’t ready for some wubbing.” She laughed.

“Wait a minute… you’re-”

“That’s right!” She shouted. “I’m the most badass pony to ever put a hoof on
a record.”

“Redheart, you mean she’s-” Trixie started, looking to Red Heart.

“Vinyl Scratch at your service!” She beamed.

She stood there staring at us, or at least I think she was staring… couldn’t
really tell with those glasses.

“It’s nice to finally meet you, Rainbow Dash.” She said, turning to me as her
cobalt and cyan striped mane, and tail swayed. “I bet you’re here to see the
Mechanic, aren’t ya?”

I was taken back, and remained silent for a few moments, before finally
shaking my head and speaking. “Nice to meet you, too, and yeah that’s why I’m
here.”

“Well, come on then, you three. Let’s go.”

We all nodded and followed after her, weaving our way through the dancing
ponies. We came to a door, at the very back of the building, and Vinyl’s horn lit
up. The light cobalt hue of her magic enveloped the door, and the sounds of heavy
locks opening followed soon after. The large, metal, door swung open and she
ushered us in, quickly closing it behind us.

I simply looked around, glancing at Trixie, and Red Heart, before following
Vinyl down the corridor we’d been lead to. Right, left, left, right. How many turns
are there? I wondered as I followed after her, finally reaching a staircase leading
into a lower part of the building.

“The mechanic must like to stay well hidden.” Red Heart smiled, as she walked
at Vinyl’s side.

“She does these days. Before the fall she was one of those ponies that loved
to go and do things. After the fall ,however, she devoted all her time and energy
into learning.”

“What was she learning?” Trixie asked.

“Well, calling herself ‘The Mechanic’ should give it away.” Vinyl laughed.
“But she devoted her time to learning about mechanics, for the purpose of building
weapons, as well as aesthetic limbs for ponies.”
 “Why would she do that?” Trixie continued her questioning.

Vinyl stopped and turned to us, offering us a smile, before her horn began to
glow. The fur that covered her right foreleg seemed to rip away, as her magic
shrouded it, revealing her leg was actually made of metal. “I was hurt pretty bad
during the assault on Trottingham. I actually lost all but my back right leg… she
didn’t want to loose me, and she didn’t want me to give up on life. So she devoted
everything to learning how to build new legs for me.” She paused and sighed. “She
told me that without me around, life wasn’t worth living, so she originally did it
for me. Ever since, she’s kept on helping others and developing ways of stopping
Chrysalis.”

“Sounds like she really loves you,” Trixie replied, casting me a quick
glance.

“She does, and I love her just as much.” She paused as we stood before
another large door. “Here we are, ladies.” She smiled, opening the door in the same
fashion as the one before.

We stepped through the door, and I was immediately met with the scent of
burning metal and sweat. I scanned the room. Mechanical limbs lined the wall to my
right, and to the other side weapons. I glanced over the weapons, noting a skilled
craftsmanship to each one.

“I take it you approve of the little toys I’ve made.” Called a voice, with a
Trottingham accent.

“Tavi! Rainbow Dash and her group are here.” Vinyl said happily.

“I can see that, Vinyl,” she laughed, stepping out from behind a large
vehicle. She wore a thick, padded, vest, and gloves that covered the majority of
her forelegs. “It’s nice to finally meet you all.” She spoke softly. “I am Octavia
Philharmonica, better known these days as the Mechanic.” She smiled, pushing back a
few strands of her charcoal mane.

“You’re the Mechanic?” Trixie asked, her jaw agape.

“Well, if it isn’t dear Trixie. How has life at Chrysalis’ side been treating
you?”

Trixie huffed and flipped her mane before casting Octavia a cold stare. “It
wasn’t something I enjoyed.”

“I bet. When was the last time I saw you? Oh yes! It was shortly after the
first of Chrysalis’ forces invaded Trottingham. It really has been a while, hasn’t
it?”

“Not long enough.” Trixie replied.

“Well, enough nostalgia for one day.” Octavia smiled. “Now Rainbow, I believe
you are in need of my help?” She asked, turning her gaze to me.

I stared at her for a moment, wondering what that little exchange with Trixie
was about, before finally nodding. “I lost my left wing in a fight against Bane
Tooth. He was Chrysalis’ top General.”

“Was? My dear, he still is. Obviously ,you didn’t fight who you thought you
did,” She replied.
 “What!? Bane Tooth is alive!?” Trixie and I both shouted.

“Yes, he is very much alive. Last word that came in put him in Appleloosa,
cleaning up the mess you made. You can worry about that later though, for now…
follow me.”

“Go on, Rainbow.” Red Heart smiled, before moving to Trixie’s side. “Trixie
and I will wait here with Vinyl.”

“Tavi will fix you up, no problem.” Vinyl added, offering me a smile.

I offered them all a nod, before Trixie called out to me. “Rainbow… I’ll be
right here, waiting for you.”

“I know you will.” I smiled back to her, before turning and following after
Octavia.

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 10: A Future, Lost In The Past
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance
Chapter 10: A Future, Lost In The Past.

“I hope she’ll be alright,” I mumbled. I watched as Rainbow followed

Octavia, vanishing as they stepped through a heavy, metal, door.

“She will be fine Trixie. You and I both have seen just how strong she can
be.” I smiled at Red Heart, thanking her for her comforting words.

“Yeah, don’t sweat it. Octi has done this kinda thing many times,” Vinyl
added.

“So she’s built new wings for pegasi before?”

Vinyl gave me a nervous chuckle as a reply, before scratching the back of

her head. “Well maybe she hasn’t done anything exactly like this, but she’s put a
lot of work into making a new wing for Rainbow. I don’t have a single doubt that
Octi will help Dash fly again.”

“Yes, well, as much as I appreciate that vote of confidence I can’t help

but fear the worst,” I replied with a sigh. “If Octavia’s plan doesn’t work and
Rainbow doesn’t regain her ability to fly, then everythings done for.”

“Why? Just because she can’t fly, doesn’t mean we’re screwed.”

“Why don’t you take off those damn glasses and look at the bigger picture,”
I replied, growing irritated. “If Rainbow has put herself through all of this just
to have Octavia’s procedure fail, then what fight is left in her will be drained…
completely. Without the will to fight, well if she loses that will, we are doomed
and Chrrysalis will go unchallenged.”

“You’re acting like the entire future of Equestria rests in Rainbow Dash’s
hoofs. What about the rest of us? Even if something happens and she looses hope,
there are others who will stand and fight.”

“Didn’t I just tell you t look at the bigger picture? It doesn’t matter who
can fight… what matters is will Rainbow Dash fight.” I stood there, eyes locked
with Vinyls, as Red Heart simply smiled and watched our bickering.
 “The Elements of Harmony are either dead, or missing. Rainbow is the last
of the elements, that Equestria has. Ponies would be willing to follow her to the
heart of Tartarus and back, if for no other reason than that. The real reason she’s
needed is even greater though. Her element, loyalty, the very one Chrysalis ripped
from Dashie’s chest. That element now resides within Discord himself, and is the
means in which Chrysalis controls him. Think about it. She controls the very
embodiment of CHAOS!”

I took a step towards Vinyl, as she stepped towards me. “Do you understand
yet, you disc slinging buffon?”

“Oh I hear you loud and clear, you great and powerful traitor.”

I gritted my teeth as the aura of my magic covered my horn, creating arcs

of light, mixing with Vinyl’s own aura.

“Go a head, make your move,” I snarled.

“You’re about to get dropped harder than the bass in my last song,” she
replied.

We glared at each other, both tensing for a fight. Suddenly we jumped back,
as a scalpel embedded itself in the ground between us.

“Now, now, girls. You’re both pretty,” Red Heart said with a smile. “If you
two insist on continuing though, I’ll just have to step in.”

I couldn’t help but shiver with fear, as Vinyl did the same, at Red Hearts
words. “N-now Red Heart, lets not be hastey,” I chuckled nervously.

“Y-yeah, we were just messing with each other,” Vinyl replied.

The two of us sighed as we turned back to each other and offered an

apology. “I’m sorry Vinyl, I’m just really nervous and I shouldn’t take my worries
out on you.”

“It’s fine, I know you’re nervous and nothing I say is gonna make that
nervousness go away. All we can do is trust Octi’s skills and hope for the best.”

“Trixie,” Red Heart suddenly spoke up. “Why don’t you head topside and do a
bit of scouting. Rainbow is going to be vulnerable during her procedure, so we need
to be on our guard. I’ll stay here and lend a hoof, if needed.”

“You’re right. I’ll head up to street level and make sure nothings going
on.”

“I’ll head back up to the club and keep an eye out there. If I see anything
suspicious I’ll let one of you know,” Vinyl added.

“Well then, you two best head up there. Be on your guard, but don’t draw
attention to yourself. As far as I know we have gone undetected by Chrysalis’
forces. We should strive to keep it that way. Like I said, Rainbow will be
vulnerable during this time and for a time after. Our first priority is her
protection.”

Vinyl and I both nodded in agreement, before quickly turning and heading
back through the large door we’d entered before. We walked, side by side, down the
dark hallway. The only sound between us were the breaths that escaped us, as we
slowly made our way back towards the surface. We could begin to hear the dull boom
of Vinyl’s music penetrating the thick walls, as we climbed up the stairs.

“So do you really care for her, or are you just pretending so you can use
her as a tool for war,” Vinyl suddenly asked me.

“What in the name of Tartarus are you talking about, of course I love
Rainbow.”

“Really? See I always heard you had the hots for an Element, but not
Loyalty. No I always heard you had a bit of an obsession with the Element of Magic,
you know, Twilight Sparkle.”

“I’ll have you hold your tongue at once, DJ.”

“Don’t lie, there’s no need to.” She stopped and turned to me, her glasses
pushed up and resting just under her horn. She stared at me with defiant eyes that
burned a hole straight through me, boring into the concrete wall behind me. “You
know a lot of ponies may see me as some overhyped, bass pounding, idiot. But the
truth is, I’m a lot smarter than I look. I’m also really good at reading others,
comes with being a DJ and I can read you like a book.”

“Just what are you insinuating? Are you really trying to say I’m feigning
love and admiration for Rainbow?”

“That’s exactly what I’m saying. I find it a bit too convenient that you go
from being completely dumbstruck by Twilight Sparkle, to being in love with Rainbow
Dash. No. I think you’re lying. Lying to yourself, Red Heart and worst of all to
Rainbow Dash. I honestly don’t think you have one ounce of genuine feelings for her
in that deceptive body of yours.”

“Just who in the hell do you think you are to accuse me of such things!? To
prod your way into my personal business and make outlandish assumptions!?”

“I’m somepony who’s in love, that’s who the hell I am! I saw the way you
looked at Rainbow, as she walked away with Octi! It was a look of worry alright,
but not the worry that one feels when they are in love. You looked more like a
filly about to lose her favorite toy,” she shouted, stepping towards me. “So admit
it! Rainbow isn’t somepony you love! she’s just a tool, a means for you to extract
your own twisted revenge on Chrysalis! You don’t give a damn whether or not this
all kills her, as long as Chrysalis dies!”

I took a step back, feeling the cold wall pressing against me. “Shut up!
You have no idea what you’re rambling on about!”

“The hell I don’t! What is your plan, huh? Get close to Rainbow so you can
manipulate her and use her as a weapon, then after this is all over you can just go
back to your life? Or is it more? Maybe this is some pathetic attempt to hold onto
Twilight, by dragging one of her closests friends down into the misery that you
refuse to escape from?” Vinyl scoffed and turned from me as she spoke, refusing to
look at me.

“You… you bitch! How dare you! How dare you even speak Twilight’s name and
accuse me of such things,” I shouted in reply, before being sent crashing into the
wall.

“You said it yourself and made it very clear what your intentions are.
Rainbow is the last of the Elements and as such is one of the most important, if
not the most important pony alive. I have you to thank for that realization, after
our little spat back there with Red Heart. You see her as nothing more than a means
to create an army, but you don’t see her as the beacon of hope she is. Once her
procedure is done I’ll consult her on helping join the resistances, but I won’t do
it under the guise of false love, as you have. I will ask her as a pony who has
seen first hand the horrors of this war, I will ask her as a pony who needs help.”

“You would accuse me of such things, strike me and then just walk away!? I
will not have it! My love for Twilight was pure, born of admiration and respect! It
is the same love that I feel for Rainbow, the same love that now drives me to see
her achieve the greatness that she can attain!”

“Enough,” Vinyl shouted, not bothering to turn back to me. “You are a liar, a
cheater and nothing more than the forgotten toy of Chrysalis. The only reason you
are even breathing is because you’re an old friend of Octi’s and the false love of
Rainbow Dash. If I knew your death wouldn’t burden even one of them, then I would
end you here and now.”

I steadied myself and flipped my mane, trying to regain my composure before I

spoke. “Despite what you may think, I love Rainbow. Admittedly it happened rather
quickly and yes… part of the reason is because of the link she shared with
Twilight. That isn’t the only reason though. I’ve stood beside her in battle,
watched in horror as she nearly died and cried as she shrieked in pain. Do you
understand how horrible, how heart wrenching, it was to watch as she crawled to her
severed wing? It is an image that will forever be with me…”

“Actions speak louder than words and both can be easily falsified. Both can
also be easily manipulated and distorted to make one appear anything they wish,”
Vinyl replied.

I watched, in silence, as she continued on and took a moment to gather

myself. I inhaled deeply, trying to make sense of everything that had just
happened. and soon found the resolve to move once more. I followed after her,
keeping my distance, as I became lost in thought. She was wrong. My love for
Rainbow wasn’t simply a form of manipulation, that was absurd. I nearly died at the
hooves of a Collector, just to protect Rainbow. Perhaps my love is a bit… selfish.
But what love isn’t?

“Hey, you coming,” Vinyl called out to me, stirring me from my thoughts.

I looked up to see that we had reached the door to the club and that an
annoyed Vinyl was standing by it, waiting on me. I simply nodded as I approached
and the door became enveloped by Vinyl’s magic, opening it. We stepped through,
walking back into the controlled chaos of Vinyl’s club, as she closed the large
door behind us.

“Try not to get into any trouble.”

“My plan isn’t to get into any, just simply observe what’s going on about the
city.”

“Well if trouble decides it want’s to find you, just head back here. This
place is really easy to get lost in and you won’t find one supporter of Chrysalis,
in that sea of ponies.” Vinyl offered me a quick nod, before disappearing into the
aforementioned ‘sea of ponies’, leaving me to my own devices.

I made my way through the club, finally exiting out into the bright light of
the city. The sun had slowly begun to dull and set, giving off a beautiful mixture
of colors and hues, as the buildings reflected this beauty. I breathed deeply,
inhaling the crisp evening air, as a sigh escaped me. Not even the beauty that
surrounded me in this moment could move my mind from Vinyl’s words, however vulgar
and presumptuous they may have been. They had done their intended purpose though,
they had addled me.

Damn that pony and her idiocy, making me second guess myself. Still, I could
see where she was coming from. But one cannot expect to understand the mind, or
heart for that matter, of another. No. She was wrong. I love Dash and not just
because she’s an Element, it’s because she’s something more. What that is though,
well, has yet to be seen.

I steadied myself, letting out another sigh, as I started to walk the streets
of Van Hoover. I needed to focus, to be on my guard. I had to keep an eye out for
trouble and an ear to the ground for any dangers, less Rainbow fall into some sort
of harm. The thought of her being hurt… I don’t ever want her to feel hurt again. I
don’t ever want to witness something like our fight with Bane Tooth again, well
what we thought was Bane Tooth.

Octavia had said that Bane Tooth still lived, but how? I removed that
monsters head myself, so how can he be alive? Damnit, Trixie! Now is not the time
to have your mind clouded by these random thoughts, you must be vigilant. The stone
streets beneath my hooves slowly cooled, as the sun sank lower and I could see the
lights of the city begin to flicker on.

Like a dim fire burning in the darkness of night, the city of Van Hoover came
alive before my very eyes. Buildings became shining beacons in the night, guiding
ponies through the streets. Signs illuminated, displaying the names of
establishments and advertising the latest trends. This city, this shining symbol of
hope amidst the chaos that reigned supreme over all ponydom, this place filled me
with a dread that I hoped I’d never know again.

I was filled with loneliness, a despair that ate at my very being. No matter
what I tried the questioning void, that Vinyl had created within me, grew, pulling
me into it’s darkest depths. Why was I plagued with such absurdity, such nonsense,
as questioning what I felt? Perhaps I was lying, trying to gain the means to an
end. But for that to be true, I must be lying to myself as well and that was
something that truly crushed what little conviction I had managed to acquire.

A long, drawn out, sigh escaped me. My frustration boiling over to the point
of annoyance, as I shook those foolish thoughts from my mind, once again. I
continued to walk the streets, taking note to move cautiously past a small patrol
of Changeling guards.

“Haven’t you heard?” I heard one of the guards mumble to another.

“Heard what?” He replied, with an annoyed tone.

“Word came from Canterlot this morning, special orders from the queen
herself. Said that we’re to be on the look out for any suspicious activities,
something about the instigators of the Las Pegasus riot coming here.” I quickly
ducked into an alley, pressing myself against the wall as I listened in.

“Pfft, yeah right, like they’d really come here. They’d have to be fools to
come here.”

“Well they’re ponies, so we can’t expect them to be all that bright.” The
guards erupted into laughter and I waited patiently as they moved on.

Once they had left I stepped out from the shadows of the alleyway, looking
around me, before scoffing. “Those damned bugs.” I shook my head, sighing, as I
thought about what I’d just overheard. “So they know we’re here. From the sounds of
it though they don’t know how many of us there are and it seems like they don’t
have an idea of our identities.” I continued to ponder on this, thinking of a way
to use this knowledge to our advantage. “Best not to make a move yet,” I thought.

I continued on, hoping to find more useful information. I soon came to stop
at a large square building, similar to that of Vinyl’s club, where a large sign
hung just above the entrance; The Naked Mare. “Well… that sounds… lovely,” I
thought. Rainbow had told me that bars were useful places to collect information
and seeing as that was my reason for wandering about, I decided to take Rainbow’s
word.

I walked in and was immediately met with the overbearing stench of alcohol. I
coughed, trying to catch my breathe amongst the fumes of spirits and somehow made
my way to the bar. I took a seat, scanning the bar for any sign of Chrysilian
forces.

“Hey there, never seen you around. You new to the city,” The bar mare asked
with a smile.

“Yes, just recently arrived actually,” I replied politely.

“Well it’s always nice to see a new face. So, can I get you anything,” she
asked. I couldn’t help but look her over. She was small, well small for an Earth
Pony and her dark brown mane complimented the orangish tint of her coat.

“Yes,” I replied, with a pause. “I’ll have a apple cider, please.”

She nodded, quickly scurrying off to fetch my drink, when I noticed somepony
take the seat next to mine. “Make that two,” this new pony called to the bar mare.

The mare returned, setting a glass down in front of each of us, before
collecting her pay and rushing to the next patron. I sat there silently taking a
drink of the cider, taking note of it’s somewhat bitter aftertaste.

“Kinda bitter, ain’t it,” the pony at my side suddenly said.

“Yes, somewhat so,” I replied.

“Used to be if ya wanted Cider, you’d head on over to Ponyville. That place

always had the best.”

“Indeed. You’re speaking of the Apple Family’s cider, correct?”

“Yes ma’am. That Apple Family always made the best, too bad they’re all
gone.”

I nodded in reply, thinking of how I really didn’t know much of the Apples’.
All I really knew were the stories I’d heard about Applejack and the rest of her
family, from Rainbow Dash. “Did you know the Apples’?”

“Eeyup.”

I froze at hearing my conversational partners reply, my glass suspended in

air before me. I swallowed hard and turned to look at this pony I had been talking
with. I was met with the sight of a metal foreleg holding a glass up to it’s owners
mouth, before it set the glass down. All I could tell was that this pony was a
mare. “J-just… who are you,” I asked.
 “Well that ain’t exactly an easy question to answer,” she replied. “Ah kinda
gave up the name Ah used to go by so Ah could become more than Ah was, so Ah could
become a pony who could survive. You’re probably one of the only ponies around who
actually knows my real name anymore and that’s even if you remember me.”

I watched, dumbfounded, as she raised her metal foreleg to the hat she wore
and took it off, setting it on the bar. A long, yellow, beautiful mane spilled out
from under the hat, falling across her orange coat as she stared at me from the
corner of her green eyes.

“H-how… w-why... you’re supposed to be dead?”

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 11: The Apple Doesn't Fall Far.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance
Chapter 11: The Apple Doesn’t Fall Far.

“Well, sugarcube, that doesn’t seem to be the case… now does it?”

“Y-you’re… you’re Applejack.” I strained as I said these words, almost

forcing them past my lips. I couldn’t believe it. “All the reports, the soldier
statements, word of mouth… everything said the same exact thing.”

“And what was that? Ah bet they all said Ah’d kicked the bucket, died in
the Changeling war. Well you can see me, Ah’m right here in front of you. So tell
me… do Ah look dead?”

I stumbled over my words, trying desperately to make sense of this all,

when the answer came to me. “Kyorl areion kal'ythxal.” I spoke aloud.

She sat there, staring at the bar as she drank from her cider, her body
engulfed in emerald flame. “You done?” She asked me, taking another drink.

I couldn’t believe it. I sat there speechless as I watched her. I had been
taught that spell by Chrysalis personally, a spell that very few knew.

“So what is this anyway, one of your tricks?” Applejack asked, mocking me,
not showing any genuine interest in my spell.

“Obviously it’s a spell, a spell intended to reveal changelings.”

“Now why would you need a spell to reveal changelings, you being their
queens lapdog and all?”

I gritted my teeth at her words. I may have been many things, but a lapdog
was not one of them. I breathed deeply, collecting myself, before offering her my
reply. “I was Chrysalis’ student and she was an unforgiving teacher. She taught me
many things, but the way she taught them was nothing short of madness.” I paused
for a moment, recalling my time at Chrysalis’ side. “When she first accepted me as
a pupil.” I began to explain. “She tested me. She wanted to see if I had the skill
and resourcefulness to survive this new world she was creating.”

“Sounds like a load of shit to me.” Applejack replied, not bothering to

look at me as she ordered another cider.
 Yes, well, be that as it may I was taught the very spell I used on you.”

“A spell to reveal changelings, huh? Now answer me this… why would your
great and powerful ass need a spell like that?” She asked with a condescending
tone.

“I needed it because, as I said, she tested me.”

“Did you make sure you had a number two pencil?” She chuckled, taking a
drink of the cider she’d just received.

“I’m glad you’re having such a good time at my expense.” I scoffed. “She
sent assassins after me. Elite changelings, disguised as everyday ponies. I was
given thirty days to find them and reveal them… or die trying.”

“Sounds tough.” Applejack replied, before taking another drink. “Reminds me

of the time I couldn’t get some apples to drop from a tree, no matter how many
times I bucked it.”

“What in the name of Tartarus does that have to do with any of this, you
country hick?” I replied, rather insulted by her comments. “Despite my spell not
showing your true form, you’re nothing but a pretender. I wouldn’t be surprised if
you’re nothing more than a shade, a shadow, clinging to this existence.

“You’re serious, aren’t you?” She replied. She stared at me with a stern
gaze, not allowing her eyes to drift from mine, before smacking me. “Ah’m the real
thing, Ah promise.”

I swallowed hard, finding this all rather hard to take in. I turned from her,
grabbing the remnants of my cider and downing it quickly. How? This question burned
in my mind like a fire, with no sign of going out. How could she have survived and
even made her way to this place? “So tell me, Applejack. How did you manage to
survive?”

“Cutting straight to the nitty gritty, ain’t ya?” She replied, taking another
drink of her cider. “Here Ah thought your first question would be why Ah’m here, or
even what Ah want.”

“Those questions are waiting in the wings, but I’d first like to know how
you’re here. I mean… none of the elements survived the siege of Canterlot. They all
died.”

“How do you think Ah survived?” She asked me as she returned to her drink.
She stared at the golden liquid in the glass, watching it intently as if she was
watching her past play out on it’s surface. “Ah fought.” She simply replied.

“Well I would assume some fighting was involved.” I deadpanned.

“You’re just wanting to get smacked again, ain’t ya?” She shot me a glance,
from the corner of her eyes, before returning her gaze to her drink. “Ah watched
Pinkie, Rarity and Flutters all die.” She paused, sighing heavily. “Then Ah had to
watch the one pony Ah loved more than every apple in my orchard, Rainbow Dash, fly
into a fight against Chrysalis. She went to help Luna. Ah thought she’d be okay and
then… Ah saw her getting tossed around like a ragdoll.” She closed her eyes, a hoof
moving to her head as she sat there in a somber silence. “Ah watched Luna get
turned into stone and Ah watched Rainbow… Ah watched her get tossed from the edge
of Canterlot.”
 I couldn’t help but stare at her and have my mind fill with thoughts of Dash.
The way in which Applejack recalled the battle, the pain she conveyed with every
word. This symphony of war with hidden feelings of regret, remorse and complete
hopelessness. It was the exact same as Rainbow. These two ponies, so very different
and yet so strikingly the same.They shared a bond that I had never before
encountered. They held within their hearts a bond forged by friendship and
solidified by love. Be that as it may, I couldn’t let Applejack know Rainbow had
survived the fall, the wilds of the Everfree, or any of the things she’d
encountered. I couldn’t chance her taking Rainbow from me.

“Anyways, Ah fought on. During the chaos Ah found myself cornered on the edge
of a cliff. Ah kept fighting though, but eventually those changelings overran me.
Ah was knocked from the cliff, when Ah came to Ah was still alive… Ah had fallen
into the river that ran between Canterlot and Foal Mountain. Once Ah’d figured that
much out Ah made my way to Fillydelphia and the rest is history.” Once she’d
finished she downed the rest of her cider, tired of the images it reflected into
her green eyes.

“Well sounds like you’ve been through quite an ordeal.” I replied, a smirk
playing at the corner of my lips. How was it even possible that two of the elements
got tossed off of opposites sides of Canterlot and both survive? Apparently gravity
isn’t as effective a killer as some would believe.

“Yeah, Ah’ve been through a lot. Ah’ve also seen and heard a lot.” She
paused, turning back to me. “You wanna know one of the more interesting things
Ah’ve heard?” She asked, her face serious, her eyes focused.

“Even if I were to say no, I’m sure you’d just force the information on me
anyways. So please, do tell?”

“Ah heard that a certain rainbow maned pegasus had been seen… alive. Ah also
heard she has a certain trickster traveling with her. Know anything about that,
Sugarcube?” She asked, arching her brow in question.

I froze, my mind instantly going blank at her words. “That’s absurd,” I

replied. “All of the elements were confirmed dead, you included.”

“You’re starting to sound like a broken record there, but this isn’t about
that.” She snapped back at me. “This is about six years, six years!” She shouted.
“Six years of unwavering sadness because everypony, everything Ah knew was taken.
Six years of wishing the pony Ah loved was at my side. Years filled with a deep,
dark, regret because Ah couldn’t save her.” She slammed her hoof onto the bar,
drawing closer to me as she spoke. “So if you know something, you better tell me!”

I stared back at her and could feel a slight tremble spread through my body,
a nervous tension I could not subside. “I-I have no idea what you’re talking
about.”

“Alright.” She sighed in reply.

She turned from me, ordering another cider. I could feel the tension that had
gripped me moments ago, slowly fading as I let out my own sigh. I returned to my
drink. “I’m sorry to tell you this, Applejack, but Rainbow Dash is de-” My sentence
was cut short as she kicked my stool from beneath me. A loud sickening thud rang
out as my jaw slammed down onto the bar, leaving me staring at the ceiling
wondering if they ever clean that chanda… chanda... light fixture thingy.

“Ah don’t wanna hear your lies. She’s alive, Ah know she is.” She brought her
hoof down onto my chest, pinning me to the ground. “Now Ah’ll ask you one more time
and if you tell me the truth, this time. You might be able to walk again… at some
point.”

“I told you she’s dead! They’re all dead! How you managed to survive was
nothing more than a sheer fluke, because every other member of the precious
‘elements’ fell during the siege. Those rumors, the ponies you talked to… they
lied!” I shouted back to her as the taste of blood spread through my mouth.

My eyes widened as the glimmer of metal whizzed passed my head, only managing
to dodge her leg by sheer instinct. Her leg crashed through the wooden floor of the
bar, others in the bar gasped, directing their attention towards us. “Y’all go back
to what y’all were doing,” Applejack said aloud. “Ah’m just having a word with my
friend here.”

As if nothing had happened the others did as she said, going back to their
drinks and conversations. How they managed to ignore us while we were basically
having an all out brawl, well… I guess looking the other way is second nature to
most by now. My musings were cut short, however, as I quickly found my legs
buckling under the weight of a table. A table Applejack had conveniently grabbed
and decided to use as a weapon.

The table splintered with a sickening crack before I found myself once more
back on the ground. Applejack closed in quickly lifting the remnants of the table,
preparing to finish me off. “All Ah wanted was the damned truth, but Ah guess that
was too much to ask for… from somepony like you.”

“What the hell do you think you’re doing to MY BAR!” A large stallion
shouted, as he grabbed Applejack’s shoulder. She froze, looking rather sheepish as
she dropped the broken table and turned to the stallion. “Ah’m real so-” She was
cut off by a sudden hoof to the muzzle, sending her back a few steps. Her eyes gave
off a sense of bewilderment as she stared at the stallion, but soon rage became
evident.

“I hope you realize you’ll be paying for this.” The stallion smirked. A flash
of light overtook the bar and there I stood, my illusion dispelled, revealing the
‘bar owner’ to be myself. It’s amazing how easy it is to fool a dimwitted farmer,
like yourself.” I laughed, mocking the brutish farm pony. The illusionary version
of myself that had taken my place on the bar floor vanished, leaving Applejack to
simply stare at me with a newfound hatred.

“Now listen here ya two bit las pegasus reject!” Applejack shouted, enraged
by my little display of illusionary perfection. Ah know all about what happened in
Appleloosa! Ah even went there after Ah heard the rumors that Rainbow had passed
through. Ah found a dead Blueblood hanging upside down from a gallow. The grave of
my cousin Braeburn and at least a dozen bodies! Everypony left alive said it was
Dash that did it!”

“I have no idea what you’re bucking talking about, you country buffon.” I
smiled. “All of them are dead! How many times must I tell you this, before your
apple sized brain understands?” I could feel myself slipping back into old habits,
habits I had abandoned long ago.

“So Ah’m guessing you don’t know nothing about Las Pegasus then? The riots
that got started by a rainbow maned pegasus. Ah heard you were there too. In fact…
Ah’m certain you two started that whole mess.”

“You really shouldn’t think so much, Applejack. You might hurt yourself.” I
grinned, wickedly, as I spoke.
 “You better come clean, or I’m gonna buck ya into next week.” She rolled
her neck, eliciting several loud pops, as she walked towards me. “Where. Is. My.
Dashie?”

“Your Dashie is dead, as are all of the others you cared for. Now, tell me,
Applejack. What part of that simple little mind of yours decided it was a good idea
to attack a unicorn? Especially me?” I asked, my horn becoming engulfed in the aura
of my magic as I readied a blast of energy.

“Ah’ll tell you what part.” She replied. “The part that’s screaming for me to
ring that scrawny neck of yours.”

“Well… that’s the part that’s going to get you killed.” I replied coldly. I
fired the energy I had been storing. A light magenta ball of energy formed,
erupting towards the earth pony farmer. She stared at the attack, digging her
hooves into the floor of the bar. Just as the blast reached her, she threw up her
metal foreleg and knocked the blast away, taking out one of the walls. I stood
there in shock, disbelief evident as my jaw hung open. “How on earth did you do
such a thing!?” I shouted.

“How do you think Ah’ve survived all this time? A pony has to have a couple
tricks… up her sleeve.” She smiled as the dust from the explosion settled,
revealing her metal leg had transformed into a shield.

“What!?But, and you, that’s not, WHAT?” I stepped towards her, slamming my
hoof down as I demanded an answer.

“It ain’t magic.” She smiled. “It’s a little thing called technology!”
Applejack roared as her leg transformed once more, taking on the shape of a large
spike. “I’m gonna end this!” She shouted, rushing me.

“Be my guest!” I shouted back as I charged ahead.

“ENOUGH!” A voice suddenly rang out, stopping both of us in our tracks. The
point of Applejack’s weaponized leg was pressed against my throat, as I held a
broken bottle to hers with my magic.

“The two of you should be ashamed!” Redheart shouted as she walked towards
us. “Here I am trying to hunt you down, Trixie. Trying to find you and give you
news about Rainbow Dash and I find you fighting with Applejack.” She said, stopping
just short of us. “It’s nice to see you’re alive, Applejack.” She offered, cutting
off Applejack’s reply as she continued to berate us. “Now look at this mess you’ve
made, the both of you.”

“Sorry.” We both replied, lowering our weapons.

“If you two are really sorry you’ll forget about this senseless nonsense and
hurry back to Vinyl’s club. Rainbow Dash has just come out of surgery and before
you ask… it was a success. Rainbow is perfectly fine.”

“So you mean… Dashie is alive!?” Applejack shouted, beaming as she stared at
Redheart.

“Yes… did Trixie not tell you?” Redheart asked.

I simply wished to slink away and hide. I did not fear Applejack,
changelings, or anything else I could have had thrown my way. Redheart, however.
Now she was somepony I didn’t want to have angry at me.
 “She told me Dash was dead, that’s why we were fighting. Ah knew she was
alive, Ah just knew it.”

“Is that so?” Redheart replied, turning to me with an arched brow. “Well
then, I suppose Trixie has a bit of explaining to do.”

I swallowed hard, letting out a nervous chuckle as I desperately tried to

avoid her gaze. “I may have omitted a few things from what I told Applejack.”

“Well then, we’ll have to clear this all up… later. For now, however, Rainbow
is waiting. Lets go to her, it’ll do her good to see you both there, when she wakes
up.” Redheart turned from us as she spoke. “Now gather your things and let us be
off. Oh and Trixie.”

I froze as she called my name, causing me to hang my head and slowly move to
her side. “Y-yes?”

“I’m disappointed in you. If you truly love Rainbow, as you say, then you
wouldn’t have wanted to keep Applejack away from her. That is not Love, my dear.
That is selfishness and it is a cruel, cruel thing.”

As Redheart spoke to me I caught site of Applejack moving to the bar. She

grabbed her stetson, placing it back on her head, before moving to Redheart’s other
side.

“And Applejack.”

“Yes ma’am.” She replied in an apologetic tone.

“I don’t know how you found out about Dash, or what lead you to come here,
but if it was rumors… you should have known Trixie is not your enemy.” As she
finished Applejack and I looked to each other and sighed. “Now I want you two to
think about how your actions could affect Dash. She has love for you both and she
will undoubtedly do all she can for both of you, but she can only be with one of
you. It is a choice she will have to make, so no more fighting. If either of you
decided you’d like to fight it out, or want to start acting like a complete ass and
end up upsetting Dash.” She paused. “Then you will quickly find out just how sharp
my scalpels are.” She smiled after she spoke, patting us both on the shoulder.
“Shall we?”

Applejack and I followed after her, both our heads hung in shame. Redheart’s
words hit us both fairly hard, causing us to drift off into thought. We knew she
was right, or at least I did. I knew Rainbow would pick one of us and I was sure it
wouldn’t be me. I couldn’t blame her though. Luna knows if Twilight were here, then
I would undoubtedly chose her. Still I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense
of dread take hold of my heart, as the very real possibility of losing Dash sank
in.

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 12: The Sins Make The Mare.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 12: The Sins Make The Mare.
 The vastness of the ever changing, dark, expanse of my mind played out before
me. Shadows seemed to move before my mind’s eye, twisting into horrific shapes of
my past. Ponyville was shown to me, dark, dead and cold. Bodies lined the streets
and bathed it in a thick viscous culmination of blood and bone. Decayed remains of
it’s homes, stores and citizens seemed to create a dreadful Ponycasso. I cringed,
my very body writhing in disgust, not at that which I saw, but at my failure for
preventing it.

My thoughts, darkened by my self-loathing, caused the bodies of those dead to

move. They stood, bones bare of muscle and sinew, shambling through my past home.
Their breaths, moving effortlessly as wisps haunting the night, escaped their non
existent lungs. I screamed out, wishing this frightful image to leave my thoughts.
They turned, looking at me, eyes black as Luna’s darkest night pierced my very
soul. ”You did this, you caused us this pain. They called out to me, whispering,
through never moving and non existent lips. ”You were the tool of our damnation…
the herald of our undoing.”

’NO!” I screamed. My mind burned, catching the wreckage of Ponyville ablaze.

The skeletal creatures whispering dark thoughts of failure and betrayal hissed out.
Their bodies aflame they cursed me only more, their whispers darkening my very soul
as I thought of those I’d lost. ”You will deliver us all into the very cradle of
Tartarus!” Their collective voices screamed at me.

”Stop! Leave me alone! There wasn’t anything I could do! I was weak and on
the verge of death, I couldn’t have saved any of you!” I screamed back. ”Keep
telling yourself that, Rainbow.” A familiar voice called to me. Suddenly Ponyville
was gone, the darkness had returned and no light existed in the world my mind had
created. I could see nothing, I felt nothing. Eyes, eyes, suddenly appeared, their
crimson hue piercing through the darkness. Those eyes… those damnable eyes that
burned with unmitigated hatred and disgust. They stared at me, unwavering with
their gaze. “What do you want?” I called out into the darkness. ”I just want to
play.”

My entire body burned and my vision blurred, overpowered by a blinding light.

I found myself laying upon sand and stone. I rubbed my eyes and gasped, once my
sight had adjusted, as I saw that I stood among the ruins of Canterlot. ”Truly
terrifying, isn’t it?” My dark self asked, as she appeared at my side. ”I bet your
very soul, our soul, is absolutely writhing with pain. Then again, I feel nothing.
I feel no pain, no remorse, only hatred.” She smiled and stepped before me, her
black coat absorbing the light. ”Why have you brought me here!?” I shouted, rising
to stand.

She stepped towards me, bringing her right hoof up to strike my jaw. I
staggered back, caught off guard by her sudden assault. ”Like I said… I just want
to play.” I steadied myself, my wings spreading as I readied to charge her. She
simply continued to smile, bouncing on her hoofs. ”Come on champ, round two, lets
go.”

I rushed her, our hooves smashing into each others, as she met my attack head
on. We struggled for power, trying to push the other back, trying to assert an edge
on the other. ”I’ve been watching you, Dashie.” She whispered, seamlessly
transitioning from our power struggle to stand behind me.

”Damn!” I managed to shout before she brought her hoof up to slam into my
chest, sending me flying into one of the buildings that surrounded us. The decayed
building crumbled from the sudden impact, of my body and shifted, sending it
crashing down on top of me.

”This seems familiar, Rainbow. This time, however, there will not be a
Draconequus to save you. Now climb out of that mess you’ve created and stand to
face me.”

”I seem to remember me kicking your flank around, last time. Now tell me, why
have you been watching me?” I asked, shifting a large slab of stone from atop me.
”Or are you just trying to get inside my head!” I shouted back to her. I stood
among the rubble, staring at her, feeling a small trickle of blood make its way
down my forehead.

”In your head?” She laughed, kicking up a bit of dust in amusement. ”I’m
always in that little, striped, head of yours.” She simply replied.

”So you’re not going to answer my question then?”

”What was the question again?” She smiled.

”Fine! I’ll just beat the answer out of you!” I roared, leaping into the air.
I sped towards her, my right hoof pulled tightly against me, ready to attack.

She stood, never moving, as I drew closer. ”Poor, poor, Dashie. You’re far
too busy fighting with yourself to notice the truth.” She spoke, tilting her head
as her smile became more twisted. ”Or maybe you’d rather just ignore the truth.”

I struck out at her with all my strength, only to have her knock my attack
away. I spun, grabbing her with my left hoof, as I used the momentum of my body to
toss her over my hip. ”Damn you.” She hissed, quickly climbing back to her hooves.
”I’ll make you pay for that.”

”I bet you will.” I grinned. I readied myself to attack her once more,
digging my back hooves into the ground, my wings flaring open. ”So tell me, do you
remember the question yet?”

”Nope, can’t say that I do.” She replied flatly. Within a moment she was upon
me, we fought viciously, trading blow for blow, with no desire to bend to the
others will. Each attack seemed to bend the world around us as our fight went on,
each strike sending a burning sensation throughout my body. I suddenly feigned to
my right, quickly switching my stance as I fired a shot into her ribs with my left
hoof. She stumbled back, wheezing, as she tried to replenish the air my attack had
forced from her lungs.

”How dare you!” I screamed. ”How dare you pull me back into this twisted
world, this pit of hatred! You say you’ve been watching me, then offer me no answer
as to why! Within that moment I could feel all the disgust, all the disdain, I had
felt upon our first meeting return. I was not fighting to find an answer, nor was I
fighting for a cause. No. I had been thrust into this petty fight because of her
desire, her lust for bloodshed. I could feel the sensation of battle wash over me,
filling me with the familiar desire to destroy the one that stood before me as an
enemy.

”You!” I shouted once more as I moved towards her. ”For all your strength you
are still nothing more than a bad thought, a nightmare, that I wish to be rid of!”
I stopped, standing before her as I glared at her with an overwhelming desire to
strike her down. ”You think that you can take my place!? You think that you can
snuff out my light, with your darkness! I will destro-”

”Well that’s enough of that.” She grinned.

I gasped, staggering back as I reeled from the sudden impact of her hoof
against my throat. ”What was that, I can’t hear you, speak up?” She hummed as she
stepped towards me. I struggled to speak, my eyes full of tears as pain surged
through my throat. ”Well now you’re just being rude.” She spun, throwing a swift
kick to my stomach that sent me flying back. My body soared through the air,
slamming hard against the ground, before rolling to a stop.

She taunted me, whistling as she slowly approached me. She lifted me up,
standing me on my hooves, before throwing another swift kick to my stomach. I could
feel my legs begin to buckle from the force of her attack, another kick saw that my
legs would hold me no longer. As my body began to fall back to the earth she put
her forehooves together and brought them down between my shoulders, causing my body
to slam into the ground, bouncing from the force.

”You actually thought you could beat me.” She grabbed my throat, raising me
into the air, firing off several more attacks. A loud crack echoed out and I
writhed in pain, as her hoof slammed into my ribs.

She chuckled as she brought her hoof back and buried it into my stomach,
sending me flying through the air, quickly bringing it to a halt as she grabbed me
once more and slammed my beaten body back to the ground. ”Look at it, Rainbow! Look
at this world you bind me to!” She roared, lifting me once more and turning me to
stare at Canterlot. ”This is more than some silly world created by your mind! This
is a world created from your very soul! A world that reflects the world that you
will create! This is the future that you will bring to Equestria! This is what your
silly ideals will create, a wasteland! This is the truth that you ignore!”

I spit out the blood that had pooled in my mouth and scoffed, barely able to
find the strength to do so. ”What are you even talking about?” I managed, my throat
still gripped with pain.

”You wish to save everypony… you wish to restore this world, but the simple
fact is: You never will.” She began to chuckle, after she spoke, eventually
erupting into a fit of insane laughter. ”You hold onto ideals of the world as it
was, but you fail to realize that the world has changed. Ponies, even if Chrysalis
is defeated, will never go back to how things were. This war has changed them all.
Even if it were to end, they would forever carry the paranoia and fear that they’ve
come to see as normal. Harmony no longer exists and never will again, only darkness
will live on.”

”Ponies will go back to how things were.” I replied. ”They will not cast away
the ways of harmony, simply because of the things that bug has done.”

”No. You’re wrong, Rainbow.” My body stiffened as she threw me back to the
ground. I tried to scream, but my voice failed me as she put a hoof to the back of
my head and held me down. ”You’re simply a broken element, a pretender, holding on
to the past.” I tried to crawl away as she spoke, feeling her grab a hold of my
left wing. ”Many have already forgotten and many more shall. Those lucky enough and
strong enough, will adopt the darkness. They will grow stronger from it and use it,
like I’d hoped you would.” She whispered into my ear, before pushing my face into
the earth and ripping my wing from my body.

I screamed, my body convulsing in pain, having experienced losing my wing

once more. ”I usually try not to disappoint, but in your case I think I’ll make an
exception.” I managed through bloodied coughs, my entire body engulfed by pain.

”Aw, Dashie… that hurts. I was hoping that we could be friends, since you
seem to love making friends.” Her mocking tone was evident as she spoke, tossing my
now ripped wing to the ground. You know I’ve been wondering something, as you’ve
leisurely strolled through the carnage Equestria has become.” She paused, turning
from me to gaze at the ruins Canterlot had become. ”Why waste your time collecting
‘friends’ and ‘comrades’ when they’re just gonna die?”

”Shut up! I’ll give my life to protect them!” I shouted, causing my body to
tense and stifle my voice.

”You only have one life, Rainbow, and I’m pretty sure you’ve got more than
one companion. In fact theres that Trickster, the nurse and who knows how many
others. Do you intend to die for each of them? Have you somehow figured out a way
to bring yourself back to life, just so you can die for each one?”

”If that’s what it takes to keep them safe… then that’s exactly what I’ll
do.”

”Such conviction, such strength.” She paused, staring down at my with empty
eyes. ”I’m so very looking forward to the day when I can see you break… or perhaps
I’m looking forward to the day that I will break you.”

”Why have you shown up? Why would you show yourself to me now?”

She turned back to me, a smile playing at the corner of her lips and
chuckled. ”Show up? Why, Dashie, I’m always with you. I’m everything you can and
should be. You are nothing but a vessel, mindlessly navigating this world. You are
a shell, broken and cracked, simply waiting to fall away. What is within that
shell? Well, that should be evident… me.”

”I am Rainbow Dash and you are nothing more than a twisted shadow!” I
shouted. I pushed my body, focused my will and forced myself to stand. My legs
trembled under my weight, as pain throbbed throughout my entire body.

”To save this world from the monsters… you’ll have to become a monster.” She
replied calmly. ”You’ll realize this, eventually, and then you’ll beg for my help.
I’ll be waiting, watching, with anticipation for that day. The day that you and I
become one, once more, so that we can save Equestria.”

”You and I will never become one! I will never ask for your help! I will save
Equestria with my own strength and with the help of my friends!” I shouted,
coughing up more blood.

”One day, you will need me. One day, you will beg for my strength, but
perhaps it’s foolish to look to the future.” She paused closing her crimson eyes.
”No, it is too soon to look to the future.” She turned from me once more and began
to walk. ”Seek out the start of all things.” She called to me as she vanished
before my very eyes.

The very earth beneath my hooves seemed to tremble as a well of darkness

erupted from Canterlot. The blackness of my own hatred splashed across the canvas
of this artificial world, swallowing it and returning it to darkness. I turned and
ran, trying to stay ahead of it. I didn’t want to return to the darkness, to have
my light extinguished by it once more.

“NO! Not again!” I screamed. I sat up, my eyes darting open before quickly
covering them with my hooves. I had been blinded by the lights surrounding me, by
the sterile room I found myself in.

“Rainbow, are you alright!?” I heard Octavia call out and could feel her
hooves take hold of me, as I suddenly writhed in pain. I screamed, my entire back
ablaze with pain worse than that which a thousand blades could inflict. “Rainbow be
careful!”
 “My back!” I continued to scream, thrashing within Octavia’s grasp.

“Calm down!” Octavia shouted, pushing me back onto the table I had woke up
on. “You’ll rip open the stitching!”

My body continued to convulse, nausea quickly taking hold of me. I rolled to

my side, expelling the contents of my stomach onto the floor. “My back, my back is
on fire!” I managed to shout through gasps for air, as I continued to be sick. Then
suddenly, almost as quickly as the pain had started, it subsided. My body became
heavy and I couldn’t move.

“This is my fault, I’m sorry.” Octavia spoke, as she rolled me onto my back.
I watched her, through heavy eyes, tighten straps around my legs and chest. She
sighed, wiping a bit of sweat from her brow, before looking to me and smiling. “I
should have warned you this would happen.”

“You… you knew this would happen?”

“Yes, I did.” She replied. “The prosthetic I used, for your new wing, is
created from an ancient form of magic.”

“Earth ponies can’t use magic.” I managed to reply.

“All ponies can use magic, it’s just that unicorns are the only ponies able
to do so without a catalyst. In the case of your new wing, well, it acts as it’s
own catalyst. The metal used is infused with magic that allows it to become a
‘living metal’. Because of this magic, Rainbow, your new wing will feel just as
light and flexible as your original.”

“So you’re saying that it’ll be like I never lost my wing?”

“Exactly.” Octavia replied. “The wing will feel as natural as the one you
were born with.”

“So I take it everything went fine?”

“Yes, it did indeed. Luckily your fight with that ‘Bane Tooth’ pretender
didn’t do as much damage as I’d previously speculated. It was a clean cut, one
slice, no tearing or ripping. That meant the muscle mass was still there, which
aside from the bone is crucial to having the prosthetic take hold to the host.”

I thought over what Octavia was saying, relieved that everything had went
well. I was still hesitant to ask the one question that burned at the back of my
mind, though. Gripped by some sort of unfamiliar fear, a sense of unease that would
not pass, I finally spoke. “So tell me, Octavia, when will I be able to fly once
again?”

She looked at me, smiling, leaning towards me to place her hoof on mine.
“Don’t worry, you’ll be able to fly again, soon. You’re gonna have to let your wing
heal and get fully adjusted to your body, but after that you’ll be soaring once
more.”

I sighed and smiled, my body still heavy, but at least I was at ease. I
turned my head slowly, examining the room Octavia had placed me in, when a random
thought came to me. “Where is everypony?”

“Vinyl is upstairs, seeing to the ponies in the club. As for Redheart and
Trixie, well I believe they are out scouting the city.”
 “Oh.” I replied. “I had hoped they’d have been here, when I woke up.” I
turned my head to stare at the ceiling, sighing as I let my eyes slip shut. “I hope
they’re alright.”

“I’m sure they’re fine. I mean Trixie has always been one of those ponies who
seems to attract trouble, but Redheart can get her out of anything she stumbles
upon.” Octavia replied.

Her words brought me a mixture of unease and relief, as I thought them over.
“Thanks.” I said suddenly. “Now I keep picturing Trixie getting into a bar fight
and having Redheart bail her out.” I laughed.

“Well you wouldn’t be too far off with that assumption.” Redheart suddenly
called out.

My eyes shot open and I quickly moved to set up, but found myself still bound
to the table. “You’re here.” I managed, suddenly overcome by a surge of emotion.
“You’re safe.”

“Now, now, Dashie. There isn’t an reason to get emotional, we’re just fine,”
Redheart smiled. “In fact we even found a friend.” As she spoke she stepped to the
side, revealing Trixie. “Go on, Trixie, introduce our new friend to Dashie.” I
noticed Redheart shoot Trixie a stern glare, as the azure mare simply sighed in
defeat.

“Yes… well…” Trixie began, averting the gaze of Redheart. “Dashie, I’m glad
that you’re alright.” She said suddenly. She smiled as she stood there, looking me
over. “Well… I suppose you should speak to her.” Trixie sighed, turning from me and
moving from my sight.

I closed my eyes and sighed. “Whats wrong with Trixie?” I asked suddenly.

“Aw she’ll be okay.” I heard a pony call out.

My mind suddenly flooded with images of the past. I recalled the most mundane
of things, the simple things that once brought me joy. Then suddenly a scent, a
scent that I had always seemed to know, filled me with nostalgia and caused my
heart to swell. I could suddenly recall every single blonde hair that made up a
beautiful mane, as it fell freely across my face. I could feel the warmth of a
sunset that bathed two bodies in soft glowing light. A name, the one name that I
had carried with me everyday… everyday since I had lost everything.

“Damnit.” I mumbled softly, feeling a tear fall across my cheek. I cursed my

mind, cursed it for playing such an awful trick on me. That scent, her scent, was
no more. That beautiful blonde mane, was no more. That pony, she was no more…
Applejack… was no more.

“Something wrong, Dashie?” The pony called to me once again.

“Stop it!” I shouted. Tears fell as I clenched my eyes shut and tried to
think of anything but her. “Stop it, please.”

“Ah’ll do no such thing, not until Ah known what's wrong.”

I froze, my body stiffened, and swallowed hard. I racked my mind, thinking of

an answer to this newcomer. I wanted to open my eyes, to look at this pony… but I
was afraid. “You’re not her.” I spoke. “Theres no way you’re her.”

“Ah thought you might react like this.”

 I could hear hooves drawing closer and soon felt the presence of another at
my side. The scent, her scent, grew stronger. I couldn’t help myself any longer. I
opened my eyes, turning my head to the side, and gasped. Suddenly lips, her lips,
met mine and my heart felt as if would erupt from my very chest. She took a step
back, the warmth from her kiss quickly fading as I longed for it to return. I could
do nothing but stare at her, taking in every inch of her form. It was her… it was
Applejack… my Applejack.

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 13: Crescendo of Madness.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 13: Crescendo of Madness.

“I can’t believe it’s really you.” I said, my voice shaking as I spoke.

“After all this time… after everything that’s happened… here you are.” I stared
into AJ’s eyes, feeling them travel across my body as she took in my every curve
and edge. There was a silence, a deep, resounding silence that seemed to take my
very breath as I waited for her to speak. I could see Trixie standing just out of
the corner of my sight, with Red Heart, Vinyl and Octavia quietly watching. I
struggled to rise up from the table I laid on, my mind screaming to stand and wrap
my hooves around AJ. But no matter how I tried, I could do nothing more than
entertain the idea of such a thing.

“Sugarcube… Ah’ve missed you.” AJ finally spoke. A soft smile graced her
lips as she moved to my side and nuzzled my face with hers. The long, golden, hair
of her mane feel across my face and I inhaled deeply its scent. I was reminded of
days long past, days that were simple… days that are no more than a memory now.

"I knew you were alive... I just knew it." I whispered. I wrapped my
forehooves around her neck and squeezed her, finally living out the dream I had
carried for years. The longing to once again touch her, to see her, and hear her
voice. I had carried that for six years. What i had come to see as nothing more
than a fruitless desire, a idealistic day dream, was finally mine.

"Ah never stopped searching for you, sugarcube. Ah never let go of you
and our love." I could feel AJ's weight against me as she leaned down into my
embrace. "Ah always believed that Ah would see you again." I could feel AJ's body
shiver and laid there in silence as I felt her tears fall against my cheek. I could
feel my own emotion well up and my grip on her tightened. I was happy, yet afraid.
I could remember how I had felt when I lost her, that day of the siege. I never
wanted to experience such emptiness again and I knew she didn't either.

“So what now?” I asked, . “Now that you’ve found me and I’ve found you,
what’s next?”

“Isn’t it obvious?” Red Heart asked suddenly, stepping forward. AJ and I,

along with the others, looked to her as she stood there with her usual smile. “We
keep watch over you, let you heal and get used to your new wing… then we squash a
bug.”

We all shuddered at Red Heart’s words, not because of what she said, but of
the way she always spoke of such things with a smile. Even so, we knew that she was
right. Even if AJ and I could somehow reunite with all of The Elements, Celestia
rest their souls… and hers, still it wouldn’t be enough. No reunion, victory, or
achievement, would amount to anything until Chrysalis was dead. That was the truth
that we all knew. The one thought that always clawed at the backs of our minds and
yet made its home in the forefront of our hearts. It was the sole reason I had set
out on this twisted path of death, revenge and pain. Chrysalis had to die. Her
blood had to spill and stain the ground beneath her hooves, before anypony could
know rest. Her wicked heart had to be ripped from her chest and burned, before
anypony could move on and create something new.

“Ah think the most important thing now is letting you rest, Rainbow.” Aj
said, nuzzling my cheek.

“Applejack is right, you should rest. Trixie, and myself, will fill her in
on what has happened during our travels together. Then once you’ve regained your
strength ,we can decide on what our next course of action should be.” Red Heart
smiled as she spoke, and turned from me. “Come now Applejack, we have much to
discuss.

I watched as Red Heart headed towards the door back to the club, Trixie
falling in line after her with a weak smile and soon after Aj followed suit. I
didn’t know how to feel, I didn’t know what to say, so I laid there in silence as
they left. I rested my head on the table and sighed deeply, wondering why I felt as
I did. Aj had returned, she was alive and well… I had touched her, held her… still
there was so much confusion within my very soul.

“Something wrong, Dash?” Octavia asked. She moved to the table side,
checking over my wing, her hooves delicately pressing around the base of my new
wing.

“Yeah… I don’t know… maybe.” I sighed once more, wincing a bit as she found
a tender area.

“Is it because you now have Trixie and Applejack here?” Vinyl suddenly
asked, stepping to the table side as well.

I just stared at her, I just stared in some mixture of disbelief and

confusion. Is that how I feel? I thought. It sure as hell makes sense to me. My
head erupted with pain, the voice of my darker half ringing clear in my
consciousness. What’s the matter, can’t handle a little company? I thought the dark
recesses of your soul was a bucked up place, but your head is pretty damn twisted.
The mocking tone of her voice made my very core writhe, as I cried out in agony.
“Get out of my head!” I shouted.

“Rainbow!?” Octavia and Vinyl shouted. I could feel them grab hold of my
body, trying to hold me still as I thrashed about violently.

Shit, you’re a real head case you know? All these sick and perverted
thoughts… how is that even possible, ponies can’t bend that way. I tried as hard as
I could to block her out, to silence her voice and send her back into the darkness
she came from. Aww well isn’t that a sweet thought, to bad everypony you know is
gonna die… eventually. I slammed my hooves onto the table, my wing flaring in pain
and I could see blood pooling beneath me.

“Vinyl! She’s ripped her stitching, quick hand me something to stop the
bleeding!”

“Stop! You’re killing me!” I pleaded. Oh no, not yet, that comes later. My
body thrashed against the force of Vinyl and Octavia, the pain I felt ever growing.
“PLEASE! STOP!” I shouted once more. Oh no, you said please, whatever will I do.
You’ve used my one weakness, manners, against me. Yeah, like pleasantries are gonna
make anything better. My influence over you is growing, Dashie, and soon you’ll be
just a memory.

“Vinyl grab that syringe beside you, we’re going to have to put her to sleep,
before she hurts herself even more.”

I could hear Vinyl do as she was told, feeling her hooves release me. I
quickly brought my free hoof up and struck myself, in the head, as hard as I could.
An even more intense pain wracked my skull, and I could hear my darker side
laughing at my futile attempts to quiet her. Trying to knock some sense into
yourself! I’m the most sensical thing in here! I readied another strike, when I
could feel Vinyl wrap herself around my foreleg. “Stop! I can’t take it anymore!”
Suddenly I was drowsy, my pain was slowly subsiding and the voice within my head
grew quiet. I’ll be waiting for you. I’ll be waiting for you to wake up again, my
sweet Dashie. Her haunting voice called out, before slipping into silence.

Who we are and who we were, matter not. That which we must become, that which
will allow us to rise, is all that matters. Those words… whose words are they? They
sound so familiar, as if I’ve always heard these words. These words now called to
me as I once more floated within the darkness of my mind. The emptiness, cold and
devoid of all things. Through this darkness I cannot see, but I can hear these
words. The body and mind must be as one, together they must unite and fall to the
command of the one who controls them. There was a strange warmth to these words, a
warmth that I could not quite recall. Who did these words belong to and why did I
hear them now? I was suddenly unnerved, despite being within the confines of my own
mind, as I did not see my darker half. “Where are you!?” Nothing… the void
surrounding me offered no reply.

Rainbow! You’re the only thing we got left to have faith in! Braeburn… that
was Braeburn’s voice! I turned my head, frantically searching the darkness, hoping
I would see him. I had faith in you, Rainbow. But you let me die. The emaciated
form of Braeburn appeared before me, a faint light piercing the dark. I caught my
breath, unable to reply to him. He looked at me, eyes filled with sorrow like I’d
never known. If Applejack would have been there, she would have saved me. My breath
quickened and I swallowed hard, fighting back a surge of emotions. She would have
saved us all. She wouldn’t have had to kill so many town ponies to do so… not like
you. You failed to save me and slaughtered innocent ponies.

“I… I did what needed to be done.” I replied. “They were corrupted, twisted
by the magic of Chrysalis.” The vision, ghost, spirit, whatever was before me only
shook it’s head. They were simply ponies trying to survive, trying to continue on
with their lives… the lives you ultimately stole. I could feel anger building with
every word spoke. “I didn’t steal anyponies life! I fought for what was right! I
fought to save you and to bring myself one step closer to saving all of Equestria!”
The spirit erupted into light, revealing the scene we spoke of. I watched myself
being attacked by the ponies, I watched as I frantically tried to save Braeburn’s
life. “I see nothing wrong with what I’ve done! They attacked me, when all I was
doing was trying to save you!” Suddenly I saw something truly horrifying. I saw
myself smile, blood flying into the air, staining my coat with every movement.

That is not the smile of a savior. That is the twisted grin of one who longed
for battle, the smell of blood and the taste of death. I grabbed my head, my body
trembling. “No! No, you’re wrong! I was trying to do good, I was trying to help.”
The spirit looked to the carnage before us and slowly chuckled. Why do you continue
to shout your innocence as if on trial? Perhaps you do not believe in your own
words. Perhaps you wish not to carry the weight of their deaths… their dreams and
wishes? Every word only made my anger grow and I couldn’t do anything but sit
there, slowly being consumed by rage. “I will not feel guilt for what I’ve done,
what is right! I was attacked, I was trying to save you, I was trying to save
everypony!” The scene before us shattered, falling into the nothingness, returning
this world to darkness.

“They weren’t innocent, they were no better than Blueblood! They all fell in
line and followed that pretentious prince and the bug queen. They kept me from
getting to you! They’re the reason you’re dead!” I cried out, my emotions boiling
over, my chest heaving with a mix of pain and fury. “Those ponies killed you! I
will never feel sorry for them, for taking their lives!” I continued to shout. Then
you are a monster. Feeling no remorse for taking the lives of those ponies, ponies
whose only crime was trying to preserve what little life they still had left. Is it
fear that keeps you from such emotion? Is your ego so twisted and inflated that you
cannot see the dark, twisted, horrible things you’ve done?”

Another intense flash and then… I could see Ponyville. The houses, streets,
every inch of the town covered in blood and gore. Mangled, eviscerated, bodies lay
strewn about into a horrific image of pure carnage. Then I could see myself. But
unlike the memory of Appleloosa, I did not see myself smiling within a mist of
blood. No. This time I saw myself, and knew that I stared at a monster, covered in
blood. Diamond Dogs, dead, all around me. My mane and coat completely drenched,
small droplets of red falling to the ground at my hooves. “I… This…” I could not
find the words to say, no words to describe the fear I suddenly felt. You slayed
every last one, and left their bodies to the scavengers. The spirit called out.

I looked to the spirit, it’s form still that of Braeburn, swallowing hard
against the dryness of my throat. “They ate Scoots…” I replied in an almost
whimper, still reeling from the visage that played against the darkness of my mind.
“They killed everypony I ever knew, loved, or cared about.” The spirit nodded at my
words and sighed. They were guilty and their sins great. But do you not think there
was another way? Did you not think that, despite them being as they were, you would
carry a weight for them as well? They had souls, just as all things do. When you
ended their lives, you took that soul from them and burdened yourself with it’s
weight.

“That’s insane. I do not carry a weight, a part of their soul, with me. Just
as I did in Appleloosa, I did what was right. I did what needed to be done.” The
spirit’s expression changed, it’s demeanor more angry, as it readied itself to
speak. Then show me how just you were, how right and honorable your actions were.
Look upon yourself, red as the blood that covers you. Look into the eyes of a
killer and know their name, because it is you. You are no better than those who you
fight, those who you kill and send away from this world. There is a monster within
you, eating away at your corrupted soul like a cancer, that you cannot defeat. Not
unless you look upon yourself and see the err in your ways!

“Why do you even care so much?!” I finally shouted back. “You are nothing
more than a shade, a memory, taunting me for my weakness!” All light left the world
of my mind, casting me into a pitch black void. Will you cast your world into the
same darkness I once hungered for!? The spirit had no form, but still its voice
rang out. I will not allow you to fall upon the path that I have already travelled!
Not when everypony, everything, within our world depends on you! I turned about,
trying to find the source of the voice, my eyes straining to find a glimpse of
anything. The day you slaughtered those Diamond Dogs you created the very thing
that will undoubtedly destroy the pony you are. I began to speak when I could
suddenly feel myself begin to lose consciousness. My eyes grew heavy, as did my
body, and I struggled to stand. Within a moment I could feel myself falling and
then… nothing.

“Damnit! This can’t be happening now!”

Why is Octavia shouting?

 “We have to move Rainbow! We can’t allow her to be captured!”

Trixie… is something wrong?

“They’re about to take out the main door!”

“What the hell is going on?” I rose, slowly, opening my eyes to the sight of
worried faces.

“Rainbow, you’re awake.” Trixie called out, soon moving to my side and
hugging my neck. I returned her hug and sighed, putting a hoof to my head as I
leaned away from her. “I know you’re wondering what’s going on, and that you just
woke up, so I’ll make this quick. You woke up from your wing surgery, had some kind
of freak out, had to be sedated, ended up sleeping for two days and now we’re being
attacked by chrysalian forces.”

I stared at Trixie for a few moments, taking in everything she had said,
before clearing my throat. “Why is it every time I get knocked out, or put under, I
wake up in the middle of some catastrophe?” Vinyl, Trixie and Octavia only stared
at me blankly, before looking off and pondering my question. “I… that wasn’t a
serious question.” I sighed and slid off of the small bed, they had moved me to,
looking around for my sword. “Where’s my sword?”

“Oh no, you’re not going up there.” Octavia said suddenly, stepping towards
me. “You haven’t even fully healed, there’s no way I can allow you to fight in your
condition.”

“Well that’s not your call to make.” I replied to her, much to her
displeasure.

“You should really listen to Octi. I mean what if something happened to you?”
Vinyl asked, standing at Octavia’s side.

“Then I got somepony, conveniently located downstairs, who can patch me up.”
I smiled as I spoke, finally catching sight of my blade. “So tell me… where are AJ
and Redheart?” Nopony jumped to reply, they knew why I was asking. After a moment
or two had passed Trixie finally spoke, albeit hesitantly.

“They’re upstairs… guarding the other ponies… in case the Changelings break
through the front door.”

“That’s what I thought.” I turned from the three, my sword neatly tucked
under my right wing, making my way towards the door to the club.

“Don’t make us have to carry you back down here and put you back on my table.
I’ll have to start charging you for my services.” Octavia called out, as I turned
to her and saw her smiling.

“Hey, Trixie.” I called to her, watching her tense up. “When this mess gets
sorted out…” I stopped and smiled, closing my eyes as I chuckled. “You know what
Trix,” I continued to smile as I looked to her. “How about You, AJ and me go get a
drink after this?” I laughed to myself as I saw her blush and stammer to reply.
“Just think about it.” With that I stood at the door, gazing at it, when the hue of
Vinyl’s magic covered it.

“You break anything in my club and I’ll have to charge you for it.” Vinyl
grinned as I looked to her.
 “Sure, just put it on my tab.” I threw up a hoof, waving off Vinyl’s comment.
The door opened slowly as I looked back and gave one last nod to the three. I
stepped through, the door closing quickly behind me. But not before I heard Trixie
whisper she loved me. Keep telling yourself that Trixie, keep telling me that.
Because now, more than ever, I need the strength those words can offer… because I’m
not just fighting Changelings anymore. I’m fighting myself.

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 14: Drop the Bass //------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 14: Drop the bass.

My heart pounded in my chest, my muscles tensed, as I made my way down the

corridor. I stopped and stared up at the door to the club, the music barely more
than a soft thump from this side. Can I do this? I thought as I tried to stretch my
left wing, only to have a dull pain flare up my shoulder. It’s too late to turn
back now… especially after the ‘Cool Hero’ exit I made. My eyes drifted to the
floor, staring at the metal I walked on, as I began to feel doubt wash over me. No!
I can do this. I looked to the door once more, steadying my resolve, and slowly
began climbing the steps.

With each step I could begin to see the visions of my recent past. The same
visions Braeburn, or the spirit that had taken his form, had shown me. The visions
of a killer, a monster, mercilessly slaughtering anypony, anything, that stood in
her way. Yet I still couldn’t bring myself to believe such a thing. Even though I
had seen it, I still could not believe I wasn’t doing what was right. These
thoughts haunted me, with each moment a new scene played before me, trying to cloud
the view of reality. What was that reality, maybe that is the true question? When I
sleep I see my mistakes, and shades of the past. When I’m awake I bear witness to
the dead. It seems with each passing day that I find myself more out of touch with
reality, more distant from the world I’m so desperate to protect.

I suddenly stopped my ascent, eyes wide, as I stared up at the door. Could…

Could this be the weight, the burden, Braeburn spoke of? Could these things I see
be the echoes of souls? The remainder of a life that I ended? I shook my head, as
if trying to forcibly throw these thoughts from my mind. No!That’s not it. They’re
reminders, moments frozen in time, to make sure that I never forget what has been
done... Or what I must do. I sighed and continued my climb, shortly reaching the
door to the club. The music had grown steadily louder, as I had made my way up, and
now I could hear it more easily. I waited a moment, trying to clear my mind of the
few straggling thoughts I had, before slamming my hoof against the door. There was
a pause, then the mechanism of the door turned causing a loud thud, before the door
swung open.

I smiled as I saw AJ standing there and she returned my smile, before

stepping aside as I walked through the door. The lights and music of the club
continued, despite the lack of ponies dancing. The aforementioned ponies now
pressed against the backwall of the club, trying to stay away from anything that
could, and undoubtedly would, happen.

“Glad to see you’re awake, Sugarcube.” I heard AJ say as she moved to my side
and nuzzled my neck.

“I’m glad to be awake,” I chuckled. I looked to Redheart, who stood on the

dance floor, and nodded. She smiled in return only allowing her attention to leave
the club entrance for a moment. “She seems really focused.”

“Yeah, she is.” Aj sighed and leaned more of her weight against me, using me
as a prop to hold her up. “She was the first one to get the information about the
attack. Apparently something about that information got her worried, which makes me
think this ain’t your run of the mill attack.”

“What are you trying to say?”

“Ah’m saying that something big is on its way here, ain’t too sure Ah wanna
know what it is.” She stood up straight and stretched, moving past me as she headed
towards Redheart.

“How did anypony first receive word of the attack?” I asked. I walked at AJ’s
side, falling into step with her, as we made our way to the dance floor and
Redheart.

“We’ve, well I should say Trixie and I, had scouts combing the city since our
initial arrival. We knew we couldn’t head into the city blind, so we quickly
established a connection with the underground resistance.” Redheart answered, her
attention now resting on me. “Vinyl and Octavia just so happened to be the leaders
of said resistance, which made everything a bit more convenient. We found ‘The
Mechanic’, the resistance and everything else we’d need all in this club.”

“That’s all well and good,” I began, standing before Redheart. “But that
still doesn’t answer how we received word of this attack. I can only assume the
scouts you mentioned?”

“Indeed.” Redheart smiled her usual smile as she spoke, offering me a small
nod in confirmation. “The scouts were the first to catch wind of the Changeling
movements.”

“Alright, I get that part. Now how about you tell us why this attack has you
so on edge?”

Redheart wasn’t quick to answer, in fact, she seemed quite distressed by my

question. She turned away from AJ and I, before letting a deep sigh escape her.
“The attack itself isn’t what’s worrying me. It’s who’s leading the attack.”

“Well it can’t be anypony to scary. Ah mean, hell… We’ve all seen our fair
share of fearsome opponents.” AJ added, pushing the brim of her stetson up.

“AJ’s right. I’m sure whoever heads this attack is no different than any
opponent we’ve faced so far.”

“That’s just it.” She replied. She began pacing the dance floor, her head
hung low in thought. Finally she came to a stop and looked to me once more. “Tell
me, Rainbow, have you learned anything since Las Pegasus?”

I was confused by what she said to me. I simply stared at her, her soft gaze
focused solely on me, and thought about her words. “What do you mean?” I asked
finally after a moment of silence. “Was there something I was supposed to learn?”

Redheart sighed deeply, her eyes taking on a hint of disappointment. “Do you
remember your battle with Bane Tooth?”
 My body tensed at the mere mention of that name, thoughts of our battle
flooded my mind, and I could feel the all too familiar sensation of rage fill my
soul. “I didn’t fight Bane Tooth,” I replied, my very blood boiling with anger. “I
fought a fake, a pretender, not the real thing.”

Redheart nodded and stepped towards me. She stopped just before me and placed
a hoof on my shoulder, just above my left wing. “Do you remember the rage that
burns in you? I can see it in your eyes, hear it in your voice, I can practically
feel it…”

“Bane Tooth was the one who cut off your wing, right?” AJ asked, remaining at
my side.

My gaze shifted to her and I nodded. “What does any of this have to do with
the attack?” Just think about it. A dull pain ran through me as I heard the voice
of my dark self, causing me to grit my teeth in a mix of annoyance and frustration.
“There it is again. There is your rage getting the better of you… Clouding
your judgement. I had hoped you would have learned from that battle how to control
your rage.” Redheart turned from me and shook her head, before glancing at me over
her shoulder. “I cannot allow you to take part in this battle Rainbow.”

“Like hell you can’t! This place is about to be under attack! There are
ponies huddled against a wall scared for their lives! I-” Suddenly I could feel the
cold metal of Redheart’s scalpel against my throat, and a quick glance towards AJ
confirmed she was in the same predicament. “What do you think you’re doing?” I
asked calmly, as AJ stood silent. Ha! She’s gonna put you under the knife! I closed
my eyes as I heard the darkness within slowly grow louder.

“What would you do?” Redheart spoke. “What would you do if you ever faced the
real Bane Tooth?”

“I would kill him.” The scalpel pressed harder against my throat at my

answer.

“What would you do?” She asked again.

I went silent, my eyes opened and focused on Redheart. “I… I wouldn’t be able
to control myself.” You’re right, you should just give me control. Another smartass
remark, another pain, and another moment of suffering my dark half. “I wouldn’t be
able to focus. I’d be so caught up in what has happened, that I would forget what
is happening. I would go after him with all of my anger and fury. I wouldn’t stop
until…” I suddenly stopped, my mind filled with the images of Ponyville, Appleloosa
and Las Pegasus. The image of my coat soaked in blood as I smiled. “I wouldn’t stop
until his blood covered me and I crushed his head beneath my hoof.”

The scalpel pulled back quickly and Redheart smiled. “That pause, that small
hesitation… Did you see it? Did you see what your anger has brought you? Did you
see how it clouds your judgement and makes you careless?”

I opened my mouth to answer, when my darker half spoke. Why don’t you tell
her what you really saw? I grimaced and turned from Redheart and AJ both, slamming
my hoof down. “Maybe… But that anger, rage and fury have brought me this far. Even
if they make me careless and reckless, my body can make up the difference.”

“They are killing you, Sugarcube.” AJ suddenly spoke up. She moved to my side
and nuzzled her face against mine, kissing my cheek softly. “Ah used to fight with
anger and hatred. That’s how Ah made it through each and every day. Ah held onto it
and used its strength, but it’s not true strength. Those feelings are just a
crutch, that help us get by. They don’t make us any better… They only hold us back.
Make us clumsy and irresponsible.”

Yeah, yeah. Bleeding heart this and bleeding heart that. But hey, you should
probably just smile and nod. Don’t wanna piss her off or you might not get any of
that apple pie later, If you know what I mean and I’m winking… just incase you
couldn’t tell. I let out a low growl of frustration and stepped away from AJ. “What
does any of this have to do with anything? Shouldn’t we be more worried about the
attack?”

“We’re worried about you, Rainbow. Because the pony leading the attack… Well
the Changeling leading the attack… Is Bane Tooth.”

“WHAT!?” My eyes went wide and I whipped around, closing the distance between
Redheart and myself. “Bane Tooth is coming here!?” Oh… Oh shit… Hold on, I need to
get some popcorn. This is gonna be good. “Shut up dammit!”

“I didn’t say anything.” Redheart replied, her face showing confusion from my
sudden outburst. She cleared her throat, collecting herself, before smiling. “Bane
Tooth, the real Bane Tooth, is leading this attack. Apparently he was sent here and
given his orders directly from Chrysalis. I had wished you’d stayed asleep for this
battle and avoided all this, but it seems that isn’t happening. At the least I had
hoped you would be able to fight him with a level head… But that isn’t going to
happen either, I see.”

I think she just insulted you with a smile, I like her. Why haven’t you been
playing nurse with her?

“Enough of this!” I roared. My wings flared open, my left side burning with
pain as they did. “I don’t know why the bug queen decided to send her top general
and honestly I don’t give a flying buck! I don’t care that you,” I said as I
pointed a hoof to Redheart, “don’t want me to fight! I’m gonna rip that monster's
head off and wear it like a damn hat!” Hell yeah! You could even put some beads or…
You know… Something decorative on it. I mean, why stop there? You could make a nice
coat or some boots. I hear Changeling skin boots are all the rage this year.

Redheart only sighed and returned to where she had stood when I first came
up. “Fine. I cannot choose the path you take. But know this, Rainbow. No matter
what you can’t allow yourself to die. You cannot allow your anger to make you
careless.” She paused and looked to me. “You lost a wing against a fake… You’ll
lose your life against the real thing.”

“What the hell ever. That bug wants to come get squashed then bring him the
buck on!”

“You know… Ah’ve only ever seen you this mad once before.” AJ said, stepping
past me. “It was at Canterlot and we both know how that turned out.”

Hey I remember that! Blood everywhere, chaos gently floating through the air
and a whole lot of your friends died. Good times, good times. My body trembled and
I started to chuckle, as if I’d finally lost my sanity. “Fine! The two of you want
me to keep calm? Then I’ll keep calm and keep on killing every bug that walks
through that door, until there isn’t a single one left!” I had no sooner finished,
before we heard a loud thud against the door and an explosion rocked the club.

My body felt heavy as I rose to my hooves, the shock of the blast having
caused me to fall, and coughed as I tried to see through the dirt and debris.
Finally the dust settled as light poured in through the breach in the wall, casting
elongated shadows of the creatures that began pouring into the club. The clicking
of hooves and wings, the scent of the changeling filth. My mind immediately
returned to Canterlot, flashbacks of that battle now on full display within myself.

“Dammit Rainbow, snap out of it!” Redheart shouted. I could feel the back of
her hoof smack me across the cheek, knocking me from my luled state. “Rainbow
they’re coming!” I turned from Redheart to see the door of the club completely
blown apart, and a sea of black pouring in through opening. Foot Soldiers, Elites,
and every scaly thing else in between… But I didn’t see Bane Tooth. I looked to my
other side and saw AJ ready to get this shit storm kicking. I couldn’t help but
chuckle, causing her to shoot a ‘quit it or Ah’ll kill ya’ glance my way.

“Alright you dirty bugs!” I shouted, stepping towards the writhing mass
before me, “you came all this way for a fight? Well we’re gonna give you one!” The
moment those words left my mouth all hell broke lose and the fight kicked into
drive. Redheart unleashed a volley of scalpels, dropping a couple dozen from the
start, while AJ and I rushed in. It was chaos in the club and everypony who hid
behind the three of us finally got to see what the war really was… It was horror,
pure and true.

AJ and I pushed through the center of the Changeling force, carving a path to
the center of their mass, back to back taking on every challenger. My sword swung
with rapid, deadly, precise attacks that cleaved many of the Changelings in two.
While AJ put on a splendid show of strength, tossing and bucking anything that
stepped near her.

“I’ll send every single one of you to hell!” I roared. Even though it was
chaos… Even though it was the purest form of brutality… I was in love with this.
The pain of my wing, that had plagued the greater part of my left side, just melted
away as my body began to move on its own. That’s right, just let go. “SHUT THE BUCK
UP!” I demanded of the increasingly growing voice, the darkness within, that
wracked my mind. I spun and rolled across AJ’s back, slicing through several more
changelings as I landed.

“Where’d you learn to fight all fancy?” AJ called out.

“I didn’t! I just go with the flow!” I yelled back, impaling a changeling on

my blade, as I heard the sickening crunch of another’s face meeting my hoof. Seeing
you like this makes me so proud, but let me show you how a pro does it! A sharp
pain spread through my skull, as my body seemed to will itself to move. Suddenly I
was rushing towards AJ, my sword tightly grasped between my teeth. “Give me a
lift!” I shouted, through the hilt of my blade, without even thinking. AJ nodded
quickly and steadied herself in response, clearing back a few changelings. I leapt
into the air, my back hooves landing on AJ’s front, as she catapulted me into the
air. LIFT OFF!

I spun in the air, a flurry of scalpels being unleashed beneath me, and
watched in awe as they all missed AJ, finding themselves embedded in a number of
changeling skulls. Hey, you ready? I heard the darkness call, causing me to worry.
My wings flared open and stretched, quickly folding back against me as I dove back
towards the dance floor. I slammed down onto a changeling, the sound of his body
breaking beneath me rang out like a symphony of the damned, bringing me nothing
short of pure ecstasy. That moment of twisted joy was soon over though, as my gaze
came to fall upon the object of my hate and rage... Bane Tooth. The Changeling
General now stood at the destroyed club entrance, a cocky smile displayed just
below his condescending gaze.

I could see Redheart turn her attention to me, quickly putting down the
enemies that separated the two of us, so she could stop what she knew was about to
happen. The world… No… The entire universe seemed to standstill when I looked back
to Bane Tooth, and our eyes meet. Would you like me to take care of this? “You’d
like that, wouldn’t you?” I could feel my body lighten and the pressure that had
been exerting itself over me lessen, after I spoke. I’d like for you not to get us
killed, not before I can kill you and take this body for myself. I scoffed at the
words the darkness spoke, giving them no concern. “You can try to kill me, but I’ve
told you once already. I’M THE REAL RAINBOW DASH!” Just like somepony had flipped a
switch or removed some kind of spell, the universe was suddenly back to full
motion.

“Rainbow, don’t!” Redheart shouted. “You can’t just rush in!”

“Oh… But I can, or have you forgotten? I’m Rainbow Dash.” I’m Rainbow Dash. I
crouched down and in an instant I was headed for Bane Tooth, slicing through any
changeling that stood in my way. Bane Tooth’s sword became covered by his magic and
was drawn within a mere moment. Sparks erupted into the battle filled air, the
sound of steel ringing out above all, as our blades meet and skimmed off each
other. My hooves slammed against the club wall, while Bane Tooth simply turned, our
eyes meeting for just an instant, before I kicked off the wall. This time we meet,
our strength being tested by the other, trying to force a quick finish.

“You’re the Pegasus filth that killed my second!” The Changeling General
roared, planting his hoof into my stomach with great force.

I was sent flying back, slamming into a group of changelings that quickly
became fodder for my blood lust, before laughing. “Yeah that’s right! That bug got
squashed, just like you’re about to be!” I rushed in once more, staying low,
attacking the general’s legs. His defense was astounding, easily blocking every
attack I threw at him, until I swung my back hoof up and connected with a kick to
his jaw.

Bane Tooth turned his head and spit out a tooth, licking the small trickle of
blood from his lip with a sadistic grin. “I’m going to carve you into tiny pieces
and feed you to the Diamond Dogs, but only after I use that fur of yours to line my
armor.”

“You’re doing a lot of talking for a changeling that’s about to die.” I

didn’t have time to say much more before the general was upon me, bearing his
weight down against mine. The force of his body made his blade seem like it weighed
nothing short of a large stallion, his killing intent all too clear. His eyes
burned with an intense rage, yet there was no lack of control, no lack of
composure… only serenity. “You are still far too inexperienced to face me. Because
of that, this will be your last battle, Rainbow Dash.” A sudden shift, a quick
blur, he moved so fast that I could barely believe it as I was sent soaring back
again.

I slammed into the wall of the club, every speck of air rushing out of my
lungs, before falling to the floor. I dropped my blade, gasping desperately for
air, my hooves moving to my ribs. Wow, he just knocked the shit out of you. I think
he even cracked a rib or two with that last kick. “How in the hell is he this
fast!? I didn’t even see him throw a kick!” Are you sure you don’t want me to
handle him? “Buck off! I’ll be damned if I’ll cower behind your power!” I grabbed
my head, squeezing it tightly, as I fought against the voice within. Oh… Poor
Dashie. You’re already damned, but you’re about to be dead… if you don’t move.

My eyes suddenly shot open and I saw Bane Tooth standing above me, his sword
held high. “Poor creature, it seems as if you can’t accept your own weakness.
Killing you now will be more of a kindness than I had originally thought.” He
brought his blade down swiftly, with the same speed that he’d been able to use
against me only moments before. This is the part where you get out of the way~. “I
told you to be quiet!” I roared. I barely avoided Bane Tooth’s blade as it sliced
through my mane, allowing my body to fall to the ground. I had no time to rest
though and spun, sweeping Bane Tooth’s legs with my hind legs.

The Changeling general toppled to the ground, a shocked expression clear on

his face, as I leapt up. “Poor Dashie! Poor creature! I don’t want anyponies, any
creatures, pity! I am Rainbow Dash, Celestia dammit, and all I want is your life!”
My right wing flipped my sword into the air as I caught it between my hooves,
bringing it down with all my strength. Once more sparks erupted and the sound of
steel meeting steel rang out, but this time I was the one with the advantage. “I
will destroy you, your queen and myself if I must!”

“You are nothing but a foolish mare who refuses to accept that her kind has
lost everything, and it will never be reclaimed!” Bane Tooth roared in reply. He
reared back one of his hind legs and planted it into my stomach, the force sending
a shockwave throughout my body. I screamed in pain, blood erupting from my mouth,
as I stood there refusing to give into his strength. “Die damn you!” Another, then
another, kick after kick, Bane Tooth continued his assault.

I could feel my hind legs strain, they screamed to give in, as I stood my
ground. “I… Will not… DIE HERE!” I screamed. Blood flew from my mouth as he landed
another kick, but this one would be his last. I grabbed a hold of his leg, and
smiled sadisticly, the scent of my own blood fueling an already intense desire to
kill.

“You fool! You just sealed your death!” Bane Tooth pushed me back, as I kept
my hold of his leg, and brought his sword back fully prepared to cut me down. “For
my queen,” he smiled.

Let go dumbass! “Kiss my ass… Both of you.” I dove forward as Bane Tooth
swung, my head barely ducking the blade, exposing my back. Well, congrats, you’ve
done bucked up. Now we’re both gonna die. I only laughed at my darker self and
brought my sword down, severing Bane Tooth’s right leg, before rolling safely to
the ground. Wait a damn second! Why aren’t we dead!? “It’s because I knew they
wouldn’t let me die,” I replied as I turned and gazed at RedHeart and AJ. “Thanks
for the help girls.”

AJ just scoffed at me and rolled her eyes, her metal foreleg held up against
Bane Tooth’s blade.

“You’re quite welcome, Rainbow. But please be more careful going forward,”
RedHeart replied with a smile, holding a pair of scalpels against Bane Tooth’s
blade, alongside AJ.

“M-my… My soldier's,” Bane Tooth managed, gritting his teeth in pain.

“We killed a whole mess of em’,” AJ started, knocking away Bane Tooth’s
sword. “Then the rest of em’ got smart and ran. Guess they don’t believe in their
queen, at least not as much as you do. Can’t blame em’ though, Ah think she ain’t
nothing special myself.”

“You damn ponies! You pathetic filth! How dare you speak about my queen in
such a way!”

“My, my, such language,” RedHeart said suddenly. She threw one of the
scalpels she held at Bane Tooth’s injured leg, embedding it just above where my
blade had sliced through it.
 Bane Tooth roared in pain and swung his left leg at RedHeart, only to have it
go soaring through the air and land several feet away. The Changeling general
gritted his teeth, several cracks ringing out, as they cracked from the pressure.
“I will not yield,” he said slowly, fighting through the pain. His horn began to
glow and his magic enveloped his blade once more, as he brought it closer.

“I’ve taken both of your hind legs, you can’t even stand,” I chuckled,
stepping closer towards him. “You might as well give up and die with a bit more
energy… Insect.”

“A true warrior will never surrender! Even if I am made lame, blind, or deaf…
I will continue to fight on, until I die, because that is how I’ve chosen to show
loyalty to my queen!” Bane Tooth swung his blade at me and I simply knocked it
aside with my own, following through and slicing off his horn. “You bitch!”

“Yeah, that’s it, call me a bitch. Get it all out of your system now, because
you’ll be dead soon,” I grinned. “Don’t worry though. I’ll be sending your queen to
meet you, very soon.” Bane Tooth looked at me with a gaze of sheer hatred and
disgust, spitting in my face. Oh shit! Did he… He did… Oh shit! I growled in
annoyance as I wiped my face and suddenly brought my sword up, before bringing it
down across Bane Tooth’s neck. I felt a divine satisfaction as I watched Bane
Tooth’s head fall to the ground, that look hatred forever frozen on his face.

“Dashie… Ya alright?” AJ asked suddenly, a nervous tension in her voice.

“Me? Oh I feel amazing,” I smirked, turning to AJ. “Bane Tooth is dead, the
Changelings routed and the ponies in the club are now safe. Why wouldn’t I be
alright?”

“Rainbow, sweetie, you’re covered in blood and grinning from ear to ear.”
RedHeart stepped to AJ’s side as she spoke, and I could see that they both looked
worried. I turned from them and looked to the ponies against the back wall, each
one looking more and more terrified.

I dropped my sword and took a few steps back, my eyes darting between my
companions to the club ponies. “I… I need to go,” I said suddenly, turning and
running from the club.

“Dashie!” I heard AJ yell and looked over my shoulder at her, pausing for
only a moment. She started to run after me, when RedHeart grabbed her and shook her
head. “Let Rainbow go…” I could feel tears cascade down my face, as I gazed at AJ
and heard RedHearts words, and broke out into a full gallop.

Why are you running, you just saved the day? “Just shut up! Just leave me
alone!” Where the hell are you even gonna go? I skidded to a stop and kicked at the
stone beneath my hooves, biting my lip in frustrating until it bleed. Are you
absolutely losing your shit? “I have to get rid of you! I have to get you out of my
head!” I shouted as I took off running again. Know where you’re going now, or are
you hoping you can run me out of here? I let out a frustrated growl as I kept
running, trying to quiet my darker side. “I’m going back to where I first found
you.”

I was surprised at the sudden silence, the wonderful reprieve I found, from
my darkness. Well, this should be... interesting. I heard my darker side chuckle,
causing a chill to shoot up my spine. But what about your injuries? Think you’ll
make it back there with those? “I’ll deal with them when I can, right now I just
need to put space between myself and the others.” Awww don’t want your friends to
know you’re crazy? “Piss off… I just don’t want them to try and stop me.” You’ll
come to regret that decision. “It won’t be the first one.”
 //------------------------------//
// Chapter 15: Return To Cowardice.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 15: Return to Cowardice.

I ran for the better part of two days, not stopping for rest, as my mind
replayed the image of AJ and RedHeart. It was when I finally reached the edge of
the Unicorn Range, that I allowed my body, drenched in sweat and pain, to finally
collapse. I could do nothing but stare at the stars as my body, refusing to move
another inch, just seemed to shut down. I don’t know why I ran so far . . . why I
ignored this pain . . . Then again, I know exactly why I did it.

Are you sure a random hay field is the best place to take a nap?

“Would you just shut up.” I mumbled, to drained to think of anything else to
say.

Well I was quiet for the entire run up to this point, so I think I deserve to
talk.

“You deserve a hoof to the head, now shut your mouth.” Suddenly there was
silence, my darker half not responding. “What, no smartass remark? Well that suits
me just fine . . . maybe I can pretend my mind is still my own, for a little
while.”

Your mind is nothing but trash, trash that doesn’t deserve an element, a
body, or even a life. My darkness hissed suddenly, causing the pain I already felt
to surge. My body, that may as well be dead, suddenly thrashed about violently. I
cried out in pain trying, with all I could, to regain control of my body. I am
getting sick and tired of your mouth! I could kill you in an instant, and take this
body, but I still have hope for you.

“I thought I already told you,” I said suddenly, “I will never become one
with you!”

You remember, I’m touched. My body suddenly feel limp, my chest heaving, as I
desperately gasped for air. But you realize what you’re doing, don’t you? Well I
suppose you do, or you wouldn’t be doing it, but things won’t go according to plan.
I couldn’t work up the energy to reply, my eyes fixated on the night above me. You
think that you can just go back to that hole, you crawled out of, and simply get
rid of me? I’m sorry to break it to you, but that’s not going to work.

“N-no . . . that’s not . . . my plan.” A sharp, twisting, pain ran up my

throat as I forced out those few words.

Oh, well, then I suppose you have everything figured out? Of course not,
you’re just mindlessly grasping at straws. My darkness chuckled. But I can see that
you’re determined to die, which makes things easy on me, so go right ahead. Rush
off and put into action your, idiotic, plan.

My idiotic plan? What was my idiotic plan? I had an idea, a hunch, that I was
going off of . . . but I couldn’t be honest with the darkness. I couldn’t admit
that everything I was doing was just a lie. I couldn’t admit that I’d only ran away
to get ‘it’ away from my friends. There was nothing more that I wanted than to rid
myself of this darkness, this twisted soul that had taken root within my own.
Moments like this make me miss Twilight even more . . . I bet she’d know what to
do, or at least figure out something.

How are your injuries, Dashie? I heard the darkness whisper.

The wonderful reprieve I’d found from the physical world slowly melted away,
feeling returning to my battered body. Pain flared through my ribs and left side,
laboring every breath I took. The taste of blood was fresh in my mouth, as I turned
my head and coughed up a bit. “Damn, guess I over did it a little bit.”

I think that’s an understatement. You should really take better care of our
body or, at the least, have that nurse pony patch you up before you do something
like this.

“Hmph, her name is RedHeart.”

Oh, I know. Believe me . . . I know. The thing is, Dashie, that I don’t give
enough of a shit to use her name.

“You just love to piss me off, don’t you?”

It’s one of the few, simple, joys that I’m allowed. Besides, somepony has to
keep you on edge.

“Just be quiet, please. I probably won’t be able to, but I’d like to try and
get some sleep.”

Oh, by all means rest. I won’t keep you from your sleep, in fact I wish you
sweet dreams, my dear Dashie.

Sweet dreams? That’s not possible, not after the things I’ve seen. But that
was of my own doing . . . horrors created by my own hooves. I wish that I could
still be at ease when I sleep, free of this malicious darkness that has become
intertwined with my soul. I long for a day when I can sleep like I once did, when
all I needed was a comfy cloud, and the silver glow of the moon. But that was in
the old Equestria, a world that no longer exists.

My body seemed to melt away as my consciousness floated through the darkness

that sleep brought. Somewhere within that world devoid of color, the world of my
mind, I awaited my darkness. I knew all too well that she would appear. I knew with
every moment that passed that she would suddenly reveal herself, smiling in her own
depravity. She just loved to build up the tension, to see my face when she appeared
from the nothingness.

“You’re there, aren’t you?” I called out into the void. I was silent, waiting
for her to respond, but there was no reply. “I know you’re there, so just reveal
yourself already!” I shouted.

You’re supposed to be having sweet dreams, Dashie dear. She whispered.

“There’s no way I can have anything close to a dream with you in my head!
You’d probably try to take control of my body, or something along those lines!” I
replied, infuriated by her very voice.

Light slowly filtered into the world, pushing back the darkness, to reveal
her. I stood still in a mix of anger and fear, my dark side standing before me, her
muzzle nearly pressed to mine. She stood just as still, her wicked smile broad
across her face. Now why would you ruin such a good chance to escape reality, just
to accuse me of such underhanded actions? If I wanted to take control while you
slept, I would have already done it. No, I want you to fight. I want the
satisfaction of watching your very soul, your entire being, become nothing more
than a broken mess, my dearest Dashie. She spoke softly and raised a hoof to stroke
my cheek.

“I always thought you were psychotic. Now I know, without a doubt, that you
are. But you’ll find breaking my spirit to be a challenge, one that you won’t
overcome.”

She tilted her head and sighed, moving her hoof up to my mane. I can’t
believe that Bane Tooth sliced off a chunk of your mane, such a pity. On the
brightside, Dashie, you look good with a shorter mane. Why, you almost look like
Scoots.

“Don’t you bucking say her name, don’t you ever say her name again!” I
shouted, knocking away her hoof.

Is that still a soft spot? She asked. She brought her hoof to her mouth and
licked the spot I’d struck, her ever present smile beaming. I think I’m starting to
like it when you hit me, it’s always so . . . pleasing. She began to chuckle,
before erupting into full blown laughter. She rared back and stood on her hind
legs, head turned towards the sky in laughter. I feel sorry for that little
creature, Scootaloo. She worshiped the ground you walked upon, and in the end you
let her die.

My mind went blank, and a white hot searing pain engulfed my entire being. I
could only see her, Scootaloo. I could see every moment I’d ever spent with her,
splayed out before me. Tears began to stream down my face, and my vision blurred,
as I started to laugh.

Is something funny, Dashie? The darkness asked.

“Yeah . . .” I simply replied, wiping the tears from my eyes. “I just thought
of how I’m going to destroy you.”

Oh? Well that is quite funny. Do tell me how you plan to do it, Dashie. She
smiled.

“I’m gonna beat the shit out of you, then slice you into a thousand pieces.
One for each memory you showed me of Scoots . . . the one pony above all that I
regret I couldn’t save.” I replied as I looked to her.

You know that won't work, and here I thought you'd finally used that brain of
yours. she sighed as she flipped her mane.

“I'll figure out a way to make it work . . . because I'll be damned if I'll
let your existence continue anymore. I'm the one who created you, the one who gave
your entire being form.”

Actually I think you owe that to Discord.

“I don't give a flying buck!” I roared as I rushed her. I slammed her to the
ground, pinning her beneath my weight as I stared down at her. Just as she always
had she simply smiled, amused by my outburst, as if to show me the futility of my
actions. That damnable smile was becoming the bane of my existence, as each time I
saw it I could only think of my failures. “Why do you always have to smile!” I
shouted suddenly. “Is it not enough that you’ve twisted my entire being into a
shell of who I once was? Does my suffering bring you so much joy that you have to
constantly show your amusement? Answer me, Celestia damnit! Answer me!”

I think you should calm down, my sweet Dashie, or you might end up getting
yourself hurt . . . well more hurt than you already are. Let’s not forget that
while you waste your time questioning me, instead of trying to have a peaceful
respite, our body is in fairly poor shape.

“That’s not a bucking answer!” I shouted in return as I drew my hoof back and
slammed it down next to her head.

You’re nothing more than a coward Rainbow Dash, or whoever you are now. We
both know that I’m the true Dash, or what’s left of her, while you’re nothing more
than weakness ponysonified. I allowed myself to be held here, I’ve not even
attempted to move, giving you the perfect chance to try and ‘end me’, and yet you
still strike the earth next to my head. For somepony of such conviction you show me
nothing but cowardice . . . Is it because you finally understand the futility of
all this.

I shook my head as a torrent of emotions raged within my mind. Her words, my

words, whoevers words they truly were resonated within. I clutched my chest as I
fell back on my haunches and gasped for air, my throat feeling as if it were
closing up. I was suffocating . . . the pressure of all that happened, the
realizations of everything, all that I had done. I couldn’t take it any longer and
now it was manifesting into physical pain, becoming a wave that was undoubtedly
crashing against me.

As much as I enjoy your suffering I believe that I should spare you this, for
now. I can’t allow you to die just yet . . . no not yet, not until I feel you’ve
suffered truly and completely. I can’t allow you to die until I’ve destroyed every
last bit of what you are, and shown you the true meaning of despair. She drew
closer to me and grabbed my throat, lifting me into the air effortlessly. This has
been fun, but I think it’s time you woke up. Before I could reply she slammed my
body into the ground, causing it to crack and shatter. I fell and looked up to see
her gazing down at me with that smile, that damn smile.

I seemed to fall forever as I found myself enveloped by darkness once more

and then suddenly I felt my body slam into something. I sat up and coughed
violently as I covered my eyes, then there was nothing but pain as I let out a
shrill scream. My eyes were blinded by the sun, my body broken by battle and my
soul crushed by darkness. I was in the midst of a completely hopeless trifecta that
seemed like it would never end, as the harshness of reality returned to me once
more. “Celestia dammit!” I shouted as I fumbled around until my eyes finally
adjusted to the sunlight that covered me. Though I could see my other senses were
still a mess, leaving me feeling like a newborn foal.

My chest heaved and my body strained as I forced myself to my hooves, quickly

becoming reacquainted with the ground as I slammed back to it. Damn this infernal
body of mine! Damn this whole world and everything about it to Tartarus! My mind
still raced and thoughts of my darkness lingered, as I made another push to stand.
It took several attempts, each one ending with a reintroduction to the ground,
before I was finally able to stand and hold my weight. I was covered in dried
blood, it’s scent causing my stomach to turn and wrench. I tried to put the feeling
far from my mind as I pushed forward and willed my body to move, staggering around
like a drunkard. I was still intent on putting as much distance between myself and
Van Hoover as possible, but I had no clear goal on where to go. I mean . . . I did,
but would returning there turn out to be waste?

I decided that before I could even hope to do anything, I needed to wash this
blood from my body. Thoughts of the San Palomino desert returned to me, as the sun
turned it's eye to me and glared unblinking. My body burned and ached, though the
green fields I found myself in were far removed from the deserts harshness. Still I
needed to be careful and not allow myself to stop, lest I become some scavengers
meal. I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt at that thought, and suddenly found
myself recalling all those I've left to that very fate. Diamond Dogs, Ponies, it
didn't matter. I killed them and left them to be nothing more than food. Now that I
found myself staring at the possibility of being reduced to a meal . . . I can't
help but wonder if what I did was right.

My thoughts were quickly shoved aside though as I heard the faint sound of
running water, and frantically began to look around. After a moment I caught sight
of a small stream and hurried to it, falling to the ground at its side. Without
another thought I shoved my muzzle into the water and drank all that I could, until
my thirst was sated. I leaned back and gasped for air, rolling onto my back as I
covered my eyes with a foreleg. This . . . all of this feels like some sick dream,
like I'm starting over from scratch. Bruised, bloody and nearly dead. I felt like I
was reliving the day of Canterlot’s fall . . . the day I crawled into the Everfree
and went into hiding. Except this time I hadn't been thrown from a mountain, or had
my element ripped from me. No. . . this time I was in this mess because of my own
choice, my own fear.

I finally picked myself up once more and slowly waded into the stream,
sitting in its cool water. I washed the blood from my coat and mane, taking a
moment to curse at my darkness once I realized she was right about my mane. I bet
Scoots would have loved to seen it like this . . . her big sis having a mane like
hers. I really do miss her, I miss all those I've lost. I just wish that I could
have done something, anything, to save them. My body began to tremble as I thought
about them all and tears began to stream down my muzzle, while sobs escaped me. I
stared into my reflection on the water and only wept harder as I did. I was a
failure . . . I was worthless as a protector.

I sat there and cried, feeling sorry for myself, until the chill of the water
became to much and made my way back onto the bank of the stream. I didn't even take
time to dry myself off as I began walking once more, following the stream.
Occasionally I would catch glimmers of light play at the water's surface and look
to see my sorry reflection, only to sink further into sadness. I didn't even look
like my former self anymore with my mane cut, and the cutie mark on my right flank
scarred by Diamond Dogs. It was fitting though as I was no longer the mare I once
was. I wasn't even the mare that, not to long ago, I believed I had become . . . as
things stood I was simply a ghost of an Equestria that would never return.

//------------------------------//
// Chapter 16: You're Gonna Go Far.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty’s Vengeance,
Chapter 16: You’re Gonna Go Far.
 I stared into the embers of a fire I'd started, lost in thought, as I passed
the time. I had spent three and a half days walking, following that stream I'd
stumbled across. Two days ago I caught sight of Cloudsdale and for a second
considered heading there, but eventually decided against it. I gotta admit that it
didn't look any different from the last time I saw it, then again it was probably
crawling with Changelings. Even I would think Chrysalis a fool if she didn't secure
such a city, though I consider her a fool no matter what. Despite all that I now
found myself sitting here, at the foot of Canterlot, wishing that I was stronger.
When that once grand beacon of ponykind first came into sight . . . well I broke
down. I couldn't help but fall deeper into this sadness I surrounded myself with,
and lament my pathetic being. Even now my eyes burn with the stinging sensation of
freshly shed tears. All I've been able to do these last few days is cry and wallow
in self-pity, like the failure I am. The only respite I've found during this time
was the silence my darker self offered, which honestly scarred me worse with each
passing hour. I know she's there, waiting in the corner of my mind, watching my
suffering with that smile of hers.

“What the hell is wrong with me?” I suddenly found myself asking. I've been
reduced to this . . . this whimpering excuse of a pony, not from loss or pain. No,
this time it was because I finally realized that I was a monster . . . I was a
killer. That ghost, Braeburn, had warned me of this and yet I was too foolish to
listen. Did I deserve this misery, this building self-hatred that was threatening
to devour me whole? Would I lose everything because of my own actions, and my own
twisted sense of loyalty? The dead have no need for loyalty or anything of the
like, because they're gone. Was my dark self right, did I simply wish to repay
blood with blood? Could I really be so indulgent of my own desires, and could those
desires really be so grim? I couldn't help but sigh as I tossed another piece of
wood onto the fire, and closed my eyes as I listened to it crackle in the flames.
In a way I was like the very wood I burned for warmth, just a piece of scrap that
served no purpose but to burn and be reduced to ash.

Now that I think about it . . . the spot that I landed, when I was tossed from
Canterlot isn't too far away from here. Neither is Ponyville . . . maybe I should
go back and check in, though I know it's probably just a ghost town. Suddenly my
head began to ache as visions of Ponyville flooded my mind, along with all the
bodies I left there in my wake. “Dammit . . .” I mumbled under my breath as the
thoughts slowly subsided, leaving me with nothing but the silence around me. There
in that silence, in the still of the night, I found myself without a single thought
other than returning to Ponyville. Could I really return though? Could I willingly
go back to . . . to the beginning? I stood and kicked at the ground, finally
realizing that it wasn't a question of if I should, or could, go back. I had to
return to Ponyville, without a doubt. That place, once filled with happiness, was
the place where I first took a life and found enjoyment in it. Ponyville was the
key, the place where my darkness was born, or at the least conceived. The only
question was how returning could help rid me of that same darkness, the Dark Dash
within me. Still I now had my answer, at least on where to go and it was better
than nothing. Though I would never admit it to the darkness within, I had intended
to return to the spot where I had fallen, in hopes of being rid of her . . . in
hopes of reclaiming myself.

I sighed and sat back down, prodding the fire with a twig, as I mulled over my
revelation. To be honest I knew, somewhere inside of me, that I would have to go
back. Though when I told my darkness I was returning to the beginning, I didn't
expect it to be Ponyville . . . or maybe I did and just didn't even realize it.
More likely I just didn't wanna think about that place again, let alone see it. I
seem to do that a lot though, act without thinking and try to handle things as they
happen . . . all while trying to ignore what I actually fear. That way of thinking
and acting, well it hasn't really worked out well. I wouldn't be sitting here,
alone and wallowing in pity, if it actually worked. My rashness was the constant
thorn in my side, and on more than one occasion my downfall. I wish I was able to
do away with it and be more like AJ, Trixie, or Redheart. Actually . . . I just
wish they were with me. No matter how much I wished though I knew I couldn't return
to them, not until I was free of this darkness within. Then again . . . if I
couldn't rid myself of it I may never see them again.

My chest began to burn as I moved a hoof over my heart, tears once more
starting to form at the corners of my eye's. I had just gotten AJ back, after so
many years of living without her. I was finally able to reunite with her, and now
we're apart once more. I even left Redheart and Trixie behind, without so much as a
word. I'm almost certain they're freaking out, worried sick about me, after I ran
away covered in blood. I tried to wipe away my tears as I thought about everypony,
but it was useless as each thought brought on more and more heartache. How could I
be so selfish as to run and make them worry, then try to comfort myself with
thoughts of protecting them from . . . myself. “Buck me, I'm an idiot,” I sighed as
I held my head in my hooves.

Is something wrong, Dashie Dearest?

My skin crawled as I heard her call out to me and I slammed my hooves down in
frustration. “What!? What do you want from me now? Why do you choose to call out to
me now, are you no longer entertained by this sorrow that has filled me? No longer
amused by your plot to break me?” I called out in reply.

I was . . . But after that little display I may have to reconsider. I could
hear her laughing. I could almost see that smile of hers, twisted in its depravity,
as she enjoyed my pain. But I still feel like you can suffer even more, and I
intend to make you suffer in every way imaginable. Because as I've told you, my
dearest of Dashies, I plan to shatter you into a thousand tiny pieces.

“Leave me be you sadistic bitch!” I shouted as I jumped to my hooves and

cursed at the sky.

You know I'm not up there, right? Though I do belong in the heavens, but
that's a given. Sadly for you, and I both, I'm stuck inside your pretty little head
. . . for now.

“Don't worry I'll be rid of you soon enough.” All the sorrow and remorse I had
been drowning in seemed to drain away as I spoke, now replaced by hatred. This
hatred that burned inside me, the hatred I had for my darkness, was beginning to
rival that which I felt for Chrysalis.

You know, Dashie, all this pain and suffering could come to a quick end. All
you'd have to do is accept me and return to our former glory.

“I'll never accept you or your lies, and I'm growing tired of reminding you of
that.”

And each time you deny me I only want you more.

She went silent after that, once again leaving me to my thoughts. I tried to
calm myself as I felt tension spread throughout my entire body, and sat back down
by the fire. I stared deep into the flames and found that it's once comforting glow
now just reminded me further of my misery . . . of my darkness. How much more of
this could I really take? How much longer could I torment myself with all these
emotions, all these memories, and the weight of my sins. Have I fallen too far into
the maw of darkness? Could returning to Ponyville even resolve anything, or would
it be the final piece to my darkness' ascension? I pushed these thoughts aside and
rose to stand again, before kicking dirt onto the fire. Once the fire was out the
world returned to its dimly lit self, giving me nothing but faint moonlight to
navigate it. With one final moment to collect my thoughts I pushed forward, and
headed for Ponyville.

All was silent as I made my way towards my former home, with only the sound of
my hoofsteps breaking the silence. Even though I was removed from the carnage, and
battle that I'd come to know, I couldn't help but feel uneasy. Usually I would find
solace in a silence such as this, use it to clear my thoughts and emotions. This
silence, however, was different. Within the quiet world I now found myself in I
could feel nothing but a creeping fear, as if I were being watched. I stopped and
looked around, thinking I heard something move, taking a moment to try an
rationalize this feeling. That's when I caught sight of something unmistakable, row
upon row of apple trees as far as I could see. Even though their branches were
broken and twisted, I knew exactly what this place was . . . it was Sweet Apple
Acres. The once glorious jewel of the Apple family was now nothing more than dying
land, blotted with decaying trees, that stunk of death and rot. An unbearable pain
surged through my body as I fell to the ground, my mind filling to burst with
images of this place's former glory. I recalled memories forged in this place with
AJ, Applebloom, Big Mac and Granny Smith. Each and everyone causing my chest to
heave with sobs that I fought to restrain.

You know the saddest part of all this is you're doing this to yourself. Didn't
I tell you to let go of your past? I mean it's done, lost to the echoes of time,
and every time you recall those 'happy memories’ this happens.

“Just be quiet . . . my memories are the only things that keep me sane.”

Keep telling yourself that and maybe one day you'll realize it's a lie. I
mean, as I see things, you're always fine until you dredge the waters for a memory
or two. Then it's nothing but pain and agony, opposed to the relief that you
believe them to bring you.

“I don't remember asking for your opinion. So why not do me a favor and keep
it to yourself. My memories are treasures that I will never let go of. But I don't
expect some perverted creature like you to understand.”

You're right, I don't understand. I don't understand why you hold onto
weakness so willingly . . . but that just makes your inevitable defeat all the more
real.

“My defeat? I'm not going to be defeated, not by you or anypony,” I replied as
I stood and steadied myself. “No matter how much pain, or weakness, or whatever
else my memories bring me . . . I'll never let them go.”

You know . . . you keep saying that and I thought by now it'd be getting old,
but it's just as funny as ever.

“I don't give a damn how funny you think it is, you're just covering your fear
with condescending nonsense, you overgrown shadow.”

I'm afraid, really? You're the one who abandoned her friends because she
feared what would happen to them if you stuck around. I believe that's the pot
calling the kettle black, or something like that. So why don't you take a bit more
time to think, next time, before you speak.

I growled in frustration and kicked a small stone, sending it flying into the
darkness of the orchard. I was on the verge of responding to my darkness’ idiotic
comments, when I heard something move among the trees. The snap of twigs and dead
leaves, accompanied by a menacing growl and then suddenly a silhouette. Two
piercing eyes gazed at me, unwavering in their stare, as the creature moved towards
me. “Who the hell are you and why are you kicking rocks into my woods?” A low gruff
voice called out, before the creature finally stepped into the silver light of the
moon and revealed itself to be a massive diamond dog. “Wait a minute . . . You look
familiar.” He smiled and revealed a mouth full of jagged teeth, flexing his clawed
hands. “You're that pony that killed my pack. I was hoping I'd run into you
someday, and it seems this is my lucky day,” the diamond dog said as he began to
walk towards me. “I'm gonna make a meal of you and use you bones as a toothpick.”

I bet you regret dropping your sword back in Van Hoover now, don't you?

“You're not helping,” I muttered under my breath as I suddenly took off deeper
into the orchard, trying to escape that monstrous diamond dog.

“Where are you trying to run off to!?” I heard him roar when the ground
beneath me seemed to lift up. I leapt back just as his body erupted from the earth,
and barely avoided a powerful swipe. I ducked under another attack and took off
again, only to have one of my hind legs grabbed hold of. The dog lifted me into the
air and swung me around, before slinging me into a nearby tree. My body crashed
against it, I heard the trunk crack and strain from the force, before suddenly
toppling over. I gasped for air and felt blood beginning to pool in my mouth, as I
forced myself back to my hooves. I didn't have much time before he was on me again,
a claw held high above him intent on crushing me beneath it. I wasn't able to run
away this time, but I'd be damned if I was gonna die, so I did the only thing I
could do . . . I fought. He brought his claw crashing down just as I dashed
forward, barely missing me as I lowered my head and rammed into his stomach. He
staggered back and clutched his stomach, before letting out a frustrated growl.

I couldn't give him any time to gather himself, not if I intended to survive .
. . especially without my weapon. I closed the distance between us and stood up on
my hind legs, before firing off several shots with my forehooves to his muzzle. He
let out a shrill whine and sent me flying with a backhand. I finally slammed onto
the ground and shakily stood back up, coughing up a fine mist of blood. The ground
seemed to shake as he stomped towards me, pushing over a tree that stood between
us, before letting out a rage filled roar. He rushed me suddenly and without a
second thought I did the same, sliding between his legs as he tried to land a
killing blow. I jumped up, my body aching from old and fresh wounds, and leapt onto
his back. I brought my forehooves together and smashed them down on his head, only
to have him howl in pain and grab me. He tossed me from his back, slamming me to
the ground once more as he began to rain down attacks. I frantically rolled across
the ground and finally found enough of a window to stand, only to have him slam his
fist down on my back and put me back on the ground.

“I'm gonna enjoy tearing you apart, limb from limb, and hearing you scream.”
He said as he picked me up and slammed me against the ground several times.

This wasn't good . . . I was losing consciousness. I could feel all my

strength draining away, my very life was flashing before my eyes. Was this really
how I was destined die, at the hands of some diamond dog? Was this some sort of
cosmic Irony, a fitting punishment for slaughtering those diamond dogs in
Ponyville? Wait . . . he said it was his pack. I fought against the blood filled
coughs that escaped me, and through the blistering pain managed to squeak out a few
words. “You . . . you said I killed . . . your pack.”

The diamond dog let out an unsettling laugh as he lifted me, by one of my hind
legs, and stared at me. “That's right, filthy pony. Those diamond dogs were my pack
and I was their alpha. You just happened to attack them when I was away on my
queen's orders. Had I been there . . . well things would have ended differently.”
He squeezed my leg and I let out an agonizing cry as I felt it start to break, then
suddenly he let up. “You're the most entertaining thing I've had to play with in a
while. Not like that foolish pony that wanders around here, acting like her life
isn't completely destroyed. She just runs when she sees me and it's become rather
annoying.”

What the hell was he talking about . . . a foolish pony? There isn't anypony
left in Ponyville. “I think you're imagining things,” I said as my chest strained
to keep breath in my lungs. “All the ponies of Ponyville are dead.”

He was silent at first but then began to chuckle, and eventually bursted out
into full on laughter. Once he regained his composure he smiled and brought me
closer to his face. “She's what's left of the ponies that used to run this place,
or at least that's what I was told. But I wouldn't worry myself with that, if I
were you, you'll be dead soon and none of this will matter.”

There was somepony still alive here! It has to be one of the Apple’s, it just
has to be. I can't let myself die now, not after learning about this . . . there
has to be a way out of this. I couldn't think of anything, I couldn't even begin to
think of anything and then I noticed his smug grin. He knew I was wracking my brain
with what he just told me, that sick bastard! He wants me to try and put up a
fight, just so I'll die kicking and screaming . . . well buck him. I was gonna
survive and I was gonna find whoever it was that still lived here. Aside from that
I still had to destroy my darkness and return to everypony. I couldn't just die and
let them live not knowing what became of me . . . no . . . I have to survive.

“I think it's time I ended this, Rainbow Dash. My queen will reward me
handsomely for bringing her your head.” He readied his free hand to land the
finishing blow, his claws glistening in the glow of dawn's first light.

“She probably would . . . but you'll never get to find out.” Suddenly I threw
my head forward and grabbed his head between my forehooves, as I bit down on his
throat with all my strength. He began to let out a surprised yelp, but was quickly
silenced as he let go of my leg and I twisted in the air. Between my quickly
shifting weight and the force of my jaws I could taste blood, his blood, start to
trickle into my mouth. I planted my hind legs into his stomach and pushed off with
all I had. I could hear skin, muscle, and sinew begin to tear, when finally I
managed to rip his throat out. I landed on the ground with a hard thud and
struggled to stand, as I spat the blood and chunk of flesh from my mouth. I watched
him squeeze his throat in vain as blood cascaded down him, and eventually he fell.
I limped to his side and stared down at him, the last lingering bit of life quickly
fading from him. “Buck you and your bucking queen,” I said as I watched him die.

Holy shit . . . that was bucking savage, even by my standards. But weren't you
freaking out about killing things?

“Yeah . . . and I'll end up feeling awful about this, eventually. But right
now I only need to worry about surviving.”

I think you might have some mental issues, Dashie.

“I don't give a shit . . .” Suddenly my body was stiff and heavy, as the trees
around me began to spin. “Dammit, I should have . . . just . . . ran,” I managed
before falling to the ground, my body too weak to move anymore. Then the all too
familiar feeling of sleep began to creep over me, but I was too weakened to resist
as I allowed myself to drift off into its embrace.
 //------------------------------//
// Chapter 17: The Horror Of Hospitality.
//------------------------------//

Loyalty's Vengeance,
Chapter 17: The Horror Of Hospitality.

Warmth . . . I could feel warmth surrounding my entire being, as it

seemed to cradle me. I could feel the warm rays of the sun shining down on me as I
tried to rouse myself, but found that I couldn't move. My eyes opened slowly and I
stared up blankly at . . . a ceiling. What the hell was a ceiling doing above me? I
remember collapsing in the orchard after the fight . . . so why am I here? I looked
around the room I found myself in, noticing that it somehow seemed familiar. I
tried to rise up once more, my plan to get a better idea of my situation, however I
was still unable to move. I looked down at my body and froze, a mix of shock and
confusion taking hold of me, as I saw several straps in place to hold me still. Why
the hell was I here? Why was I strapped to this bed? How in the name of Celestia
did I even get here? My mind raced, thoughts of the worst possibilities filling my
head, and my heart pounded within my chest. I didn't like this . . . this
restraint. I had to get free, I had to somehow slip free of these bonds. I
struggled and tried to wriggle out from beneath them, only to have them feel as if
they tightened with each movement. Please . . . please somepony get me out of these
things.

I was on the verge of tears when my heart stopped, and my eyes turned
their focus to the door of the room. I could hear hoofsteps drawing near, along
with a soft hum that steadily grew louder. I could feel my heart start to pound
once more, and swallowed hard as I anticipated who, or what, would soon be in this
room with me. Until this unknown being arrived, however, I would try to get a
better idea of where I was . . . but first I had to calm down. As I looked around I
was filled with a sense of nostalgia, almost like I had been here before. Despite
that I still couldn't shake the unease I felt, the foreboding sense of dread that
slowly spread throughout my body. The hoofsteps continued to draw nearer and just
as I was about to put forth another attempt to free myself, I caught sight of a
small picture frame. My eyes focused on the frame and the photograph within, and I
finally realized why this place felt so familiar. I was inside the Apple family
home . . . but that still didn't answer why I was restrained, or any of my other
questions.

The hoofsteps I had heard earlier came to a stop just outside of the
room. I stared at the door as my body tensed, and tried my best to push back the
unease that gripped me. The door opened slowly and I held my breath in
anticipation, waiting to see who was responsible for my current situation. A
slender earth pony mare stepped through the door, her red mane, and pale olive coat
ragged . . . unkempt with a bow. “Apple Bloom! You're alive!” I shouted as soon as
I saw her. There was no mistaking it, despite everything I believed to be true,
there stood Apple Bloom. The bit of happiness I felt was quickly replaced with
guilt, as I found myself thinking about all that Apple Bloom must have been
through. She lost her entire family, her home, her very way of life . . . all of
that she had to face alone.

“Of course I'm alive, silly. Why wouldn't I be?” She continued to smile
as she spoke, making her way to the bedside. “Now what in tarnation made you think
I'd be dead?”

“I . . . I Thought everypony in Ponyville was dead. I mean . . . I

watched those Diamond Dogs kill so many ponies, I never would have imagined you
survived.” I couldn't find any other words than those, retreating back into my
thoughts after I spoke. Had she been here this whole time, waiting out some never
ending storm? She had undoubtedly believed, just as Braeburn had, that AJ would
return . . . that the elements would be victorious. So she sat here, hiding,
waiting for a reality that would never exist. Suddenly I pulled myself away from
those thoughts, forcing my mind back to the present. “Why do you have me tied
down?” Applebloom just sat at the bedside, her smile ever present, as she listened
to me intently. She finally moved, standing and turning from me, as I asked her
about the straps holding me down.

She walked to the far corner of the room, stopping as she stared at the
photo I'd noticed earlier. That's when I swore I heard her whisper faintly under
her breath, just quiet enough for her words to elude me. It was then that I looked
her over more carefully, taking note to how she'd grown over the years. I bet AJ
would have been happy to see her sister alive, to see how she's grown. Last time
they met she was barely half our size and now, as I looked at her, it was easy to
see she was just as tall. Despite that she looked thin and frail, as if she hadn't
had a decent meal in ages. I was so caught up in my thoughts of AJ and Apple Bloom,
that I didn't even notice the later had now turned to face me again.

“Rainbow Dash I found you in the orchard, nearly dead, and brought you
back here. I'm guessing that big ol’ diamond dog was what did it to ya, but he
looked a lot worse for wear.” She moved back to the bedside and sat back on her
haunches, moving a forehoof to one of the straps. “When I got you here we tried to
figure out what to do with you, and finally we decided to put you in here. Now you
were pretty messed up, keep that in mind, so we reckoned it was best to restrain
you. That way you couldn't move around and hurt yourself.”

“Apple Bloom . . . who is 'we’?” I asked after she spoke, trying to fully
grasp everything.

"You sure are acting strange,” she said with a chuckle. “I mean who else
could we be? I'm talking bout the rest of my family. AJ was worried sick about you,
I could tell. She kept coming in and checking on you every few minutes.”

I stared at Apple Bloom, completely silent, as I thought over her words

carefully. She said her family was here . . . the family that I knew were dead,
hell I had buried them. The only survivor was AJ and she was in Van Hoover, no
where near us. Apple Bloom believed she was here, that her entire family was here
and alive. I suddenly felt the need to be free of my restraints grow, as more and
more questions emerged from the depths of my consciousness. “Apple Bloom can you
take these things off me? I'd like to go and thank the others.”

Apple Bloom’s smile quickly faded as she took a tight hold of the strap
across my chest, tightening it until I felt my chest heave against its bind. “You
haven't healed up yet Dash, so I can't let you out of bed,” She moved to the next
strap and tightened it as well, as she spoke, causing a small pain to shoot up my
injured hind leg. “Granny will give me a whooping if I don't take proper care of
you.”

“Apple Bloom stop!” I shouted as I tried get her to listen. “I don't know
what Granny told you, but it'll be alright to set me free. You'll even be taking
better care of me if you do.” My words fell on deaf ears as she continued
tightening the straps, until they were all satisfactory to her.

“Sorry Rainbow, but I ain't going against Granny. She really knows how to
be a mean one when I don't listen, and I'd rather avoid getting yelled at.”

“The hell do you mean? Granny would never yell at you. I'm sure you're
just over exaggerating . . . “ I trailed off when I noticed the look she gave me,
and the vacancy in her eyes. Those eyes of hers, once filled with youth and
passion, now we're like voids of darkness. They didn’t shine or sparkle, but
instead reflected my very soul back at me. This young mare was gazing into my very
being, judging my every word, and weighing its merit . . . it's worth. Why did she
look at me in such a way? It was as if I was suddenly no more than a stranger, who
said something she didn't wanna hear. I was almost frightened by her gaze as I felt
a shiver run down my spine.

“Are you saying you know what Granny Smith wants? You claiming to know
what she told me herself, Rainbow? Or maybe you're trying to say I'm crazy, is that
it?” She suddenly slammed her hoof down on my injured leg, a cry of pain escaping
me after. “You can't know what Granny wants . . . only I can. She doesn't even tell
Big Mac, or Applejack, what she wants. That's because I'm the only one she trusts.”
Her hoof twisted against my leg, as my body began to ache and I felt pain filled
tears begin to form.

“I'm sorry, I'm sorry, please forgive me. I wasn't trying to speak for
Granny Smith.”

Her smile slowly returned as I frantically apologized and she was

suddenly back to her old self. “I'm gonna take real good care of you, Rainbow Dash,
so don't worry. You'll be right as rain in no time.” She stood up and stepped back
before giggling, covering her mouth with a forehoof as she did. “Just remember to
be a good house guest and we won't have any problems, understand?”

I nodded my head and swallowed before replying, my mind racing in

thought. “Y-yes . . . I understand.”

“Good!” She replied with an overbearance of excitement. “Then I'm gonna go

get supper ready. Everypony else is starving and I’m sure you are as well. Now
don't be going off no where, cause I'd hate to have to come looking for ya.” With
that she turned and quickly made her way out of the room, shutting the door behind
her.

After I heard the door shut and Apple Bloom head down the hall, my first
thought was freedom. I had to get out of this mess, to get away and forget what
just happened. She's nothing like that little pony you have in your memories. I'm
not even sure that is the pony you remember. I heard the darkness call out suddenly
and gritted my teeth in frustration. In fact I think she's more like you, in a
sense. She's broken and clinging to memories, lost within a self burdened weakness,
as she slowly loses touch with reality.

“Shut up, shut up, shut up,” I mumbled as I continued to struggle, in vain,
against my restraints. “The last thing I need is you chiming in with your idiocy.”

My idiocy? Well if that's how you choose to take my council, then so be it. I
suppose I'll just stay quiet and let you face this trial alone. Wonder how long
it'll take you to break.

“Your council? I don't know if you actually pay attention to the shit you
say, but it's most certainly not any council.” There was no reply after I spoke,
just silence that slowly regained its hold over the room I was in. No hoofsteps, no
darkness, only the beating of my heart and worried breaths.

I couldn't control the thoughts that ran through my mind, as I tried to make
sense of all this. Apple Bloom had saved me, in a sense, but now she had me tied
down at the request of a dead pony. None of this made any sense to me, and I had
this foreboding sense of dread still swallowing my entirety. I tried to calm
myself, pushing aside all the chaos within my head, and think of a way out. I was
beginning to feel panic take hold as I continued my pointless struggle for freedom,
finally deciding the straps wouldn't budge. I wonder what AJ, or Trixie, or
Redheart would do in this situation? I wonder if any of them would have even gotten
themselves into this mess? It's pointless to try and think about things like that,
when the truth is . . . I'm stuck in this mess by myself. I sighed as I had these
thoughts cross my mind and soon found that those three, the three I had abandoned,
were all that I could think about. Why had I run away? Did I really fear my own
darkness so much, or did I fear becoming close to them? It took all that I had not
to break down into tears, thinking about the precious moments I'd spent with them.
I was quickly ripped from those thoughts when I heard the door open once more, and
soon after Apple Bloom appeared carrying a tray on her back. The smile she had
earlier still graced her face, though it seemed a bit twisted, as she walked to the
bedside.

“I hope you're hungry, Rainbow Dash, I worked really hard on fixing up this
stew,” she said through her smile as she sat the tray on the bedside table. “Granny
and the others thought it was great, so I hope you'll think the same.”

I was about to reply and try to reason with Apple Bloom to release me again,
but then I was overcome by the scent of her stew. It was putrid and fetid, causing
my stomach to turn as I fought the urge to gag. “The hell is in that?” I asked as I
turned my head from it, trying to find even a small breath of fresh air.

Apple Bloom’s smile slowly faded and I turned back to see her pick up the
spoon she'd brought, dipping it into the viscous bowl of broth. “Now, now,
Rainbow . . . there's no need to be rude. My family thought this was good enough
for them, so it's plenty good enough for you.”

I didn't have a chance to reply, to protest, or voice any thought I may have
had about Apple Bloom’s words. Suddenly she slammed a hoof down on my injured leg,
causing a loud shout to escape me, and I felt the spoon she held jam into my mouth.
The pungent aroma of the stew overtook my senses as she force fed me, and then her
hooves clamped down on my muzzle until I swallowed. I could feel the vile substance
make its way down my throat, causing my body to convulse, as I desperately tried to
break free of Apple Bloom’s hooves to spit it back up.

“Don't even think of getting sick, you shouldn't waste the kindness of others
. . . and if you do I'll just have to shove it back down your throat by force.” She
said in a crazed whisper as she released my muzzle and began stroking my mane. “Why
do you keep making me hurt you, Dash, I just want to help you. I mean you think
everypony is dead, so something has to be wrong with you.”

“They are dead!” I shouted back in reply, my patience running thin. “They're
all dead, every pony in Ponyville is dead! I know because I buried them!” Apple
Bloom fell deathly silent, her eyes turned down to gaze at the floor, as I shouted
at her. I even felt bad afterwards . . . until she raised her head back up and
glared at me, a sinister grin on her face. I was shocked by the sight, finding
myself suddenly envisioning my dark half and that damn smile of hers.

“I'm gonna hurt you, Rainbow Dash.” She said after a moment. “I'm gonna hurt
you, until you're free of these thoughts. I'll cure you with the only truth that
exists . . . pain.”

“What the bu- “ I started to shout in protest, only to have Apple Bloom
quickly grab the bowl of stew and slam it down onto my muzzle. My entire being was
assaulted by the stench and foul odor of the stew, while I choked on it.

“Make sure you eat it all, Dashie,” she said as she laughed, watching me
struggle with some kind of joy.
 I continued to fight for air, finally turning my head enough to shake the
bowl from my muzzle. This whole situation was more than I could handle, as I laid
there at the mercy of a pony who was once Apple bloom. What bothered me the most
though was what she called me . . . Dashie. Of course it wasn't anything I hadn't
been called before, but it was usually my darkness that reserved that name for me.
The longer this all went on the more I was convinced Apple Bloom had lost all her
sanity, and I was almost certain she held a darkness in her, just as I did. She
must have surrendered to her darkness, to the voice that Clawed at her mind . . .
would I suffer the same fate? Between my thoughts and coughing up that abomination
called stew, I didn't even notice the twisted sense of joy displayed in Apple
Bloom's smile. Not until I found her hooves wrapped around my throat.

“Why are you even here!?” She shouted as she bared all her weight down on me,
her hooves trying to squeeze the very life from my lungs, as she straddled my body.
“You're not real! Applejack told me you're not real, you bucking changeling!”

I tried to say something, anything, but I couldn't even manage a single word.
I tried all that I could, struggling with everything in me, as I felt my lungs burn
for air. Was this how I was gonna die, at the hooves of Apple Bloom? No . . . I
can't allow this to happen. I can't let her end my journey, not after all I've
done, after all I've seen and slaughtered. Would I have to add Apple Bloom to that
list, could I add her to that list? I was close to blacking out, when I realized my
forehooves were slipping free of their binding. I strained to cast my gaze down,
seeing my forehooves drenched in the stew I'd been forcibly fed and covered in.
With what strength I could muster I pulled one of my forehooves free and quickly
used it to bash Apple Bloom in the side of the head, sending her toppling from atop
me. I made quick work of the straps, first freeing my other forehoof and then the
rest of my body. I rolled off the bed and winced as my injured leg made contact
with the floor, forcing me to shift my weight.

“I was, I mean AJ was, right about you! The real Rainbow Dash would never
have hit me!” Apple Bloom shouted as she climbed back to her hooves. “I've gotta
get rid of you before you can hurt the others!” Apple Bloom rushed me and I quickly
sent her rolling back across the floor, causing her to slam into the dresser in the
rooms corner. The photo from earlier fell from the dresser and slammed onto the
ground, the sound of shattering glass ringing out. She went silent as we stared at
each other, before turning and retrieving the photo. She examined it as she held it
and offered me a quick glance, when she suddenly left the room without another
word.

“What in the actual buck just happened? I mean for the love of Celestia, am I
in some kind of nightmare? Surely Apple Bloom isn't this messed up.” I said aloud
as I stared at the door of the room, the soft echo of hoofsteps moving farther away
with each moment.

I think you wish you were in a nightmare, because you realize that this
reality . . . is the most nightmarish thing you've come across.

“I thought you were gonna keep your mouth shut.” I replied curtly as I moved
towards the door.

Oh I don't plan to say much more than that, well other than this. Somepony
has to remind you that this is real, otherwise you'll convince yourself
differently.

“Right now I'd rather convince myself of anything other than this, if we're
being honest.” I pressed a forehoof against the door and pushed it open, peeking
out into the hallway. I was immediately met with the overbearing scent of decay and
rotten flesh, as I held back the urge to be sick. The stew had been bad enough and
even though it covered me, it was nothing compared to the odor that now attacked my
senses. “What . . . dear Celestia what is causing that?” I asked as I stepped out
into the hall and slowly creeped towards the stairs. The closer I got to the stairs
the stronger the odor grew, making my eyes water as I coughed. Suddenly I could
hear Apple Bloom's voice, as she carried on a conversation with some unseen
partner. After the way things have gone so far, I was more than a bit cautious as I
started my descent down the stairs. I wasn't prepared for what I saw once I got to
the bottom step, and turned to look into the living room of the Apple house. There
Apple Bloom sat on a molded couch, her brother's corpse next to her and Granny’s
sitting opposite them in her rocking chair.

Both of their bodies were severely decayed with bone showing through
eviscerated, disfigured, coats and scraps of flesh. The smell that permeated from
them was horrendous, as festering remnants of organs clung to their rotten bodies
or laid at their hooves. Apple Bloom just sat there talking to them, as if they
were alive and well, moving Big Mac’s jaw with a hoof as she mimicked his voice. I
watched in horror as Mac’s jaw suddenly fell away and landed on the floor, only to
have Apple Bloom pick it up. There was a sudden crunch as she forced the jaw back
into place, and she smiled as she took away her hoof to make sure it stayed in
place.

I backed away slowly, accidentally backing into a small table, causing the
various items on it to shake and topple over. I froze and swallowed hard, my eyes
focused on Apple Bloom. She was silently facing Granny Smith, still as death,
before a small chuckle escaped her. Her head turned slowly, tilting to the side,
and soon I was staring at her. There was a large, twisted, horrifying smile that
stretched unsettlingly across her face and I could feel fear well inside me.
Without a word I suddenly found myself slammed against the wall, Apple Bloom’s
muzzle just inches from mine and a knife at my throat.

“I was talking with Granny and Big Mac,” she said before pausing and looking
over her shoulder at their bodies. “We all agree that you need,” she paused again
and turned back to me, her bottom lip bleeding as she bit down on it with a sick
excitement. “Some old fashion Apple family hospitality.”

Well now . . . I wonder what that could mean?