Aaron laid awake in his bed with sleep eluding him. He had not been able to sleep more than two hours at a time before awakening in the cold, dark room he and Applejack claimed for themselves. While Rainbow rested in the second, Draco and Spitfire were left to claim the third and final bedroom while the others were left to their own devices. It was understandable for Draco and his wife had been away for nary a year now and as Aaron would hear, they would be doing a lot of catching up throughout the night.

However, Aaron wasn’t distracted by the sounds of wild sex from the bedroom below him, he was focused on what was to come at noon. He was ready to face off against Ra’om and make him pay for what he done, not just to Rainbow but to those he had enslaved as well. Yet the consequences if he should fail plagued his mind. The thought of leaving Applejack and his new friends to live out the rest of their days in a hole, toiling away for the amusement of a sociopath. Then there was Twilight, Aaron would dread the thought of never being able to see Twilight again. She was his first friend and soon she would be taken to a mad king for who knows what. His mission was clear, he had to win, no matter the cost.

While in his thoughts, he failed to notice Applejack stir and sit up, groggily looking at Aaron. “Sugarcube?” She would ask, seeing him awake.

“Yeah, AJ?” He could hear her let out a yawn as she fell onto his chest, trying to wake up.

“What are ya doin’ up this late? You need your rest.” He would place a hand on her blonde mane, slowly stroking it.

“I know. I’m just… a little deep in thought.” She wouldn’t respond immediately, too busy enjoying the gentle touch of his hand against her mane.

“Something wrong?”

“Just a bit nervous I guess.” Applejack turned to face him, smiling softly.

“You ain’t got nothing to worry about, ya hear. You’ll do great tomorrow.”

“But what if-“

“No buts unless it’s the butt you’re kicking.” Aaron sighed to himself, only to feel a pair of soft lips connect with his own. “Look, I know it seems scary, but I believe ya can do this.” Aaron wasn’t sure of himself, but he was glad that at least someone believed he could. Applejack leaned in again, stealing another kiss from him.

“Thanks AJ. I’m glad you have faith in me.”

“Course I do. I’ve been training ya to fight for some time now. Even with what you learned, I believe you could whip that smug dog’s smile right off his face.” Her words soon brought a faint smile to his face. While he was feeling a bit better about himself, the thoughts of failure still lingered. He would wonder if Applejack, or even Twilight had ever gone through anything like anything of what he was feeling now. With a sigh, he would hold Applejack close to him, finding comfort in her presence… only to feel something else.

“Applejack.”

“Yeah?”

“Why is your hand on my junk?” Aaron could feel her hand lightly gripping at his genitals. Caressing and fondling to her leisure. She turned to Aaron with a lewd smirk.

“Just thought I’d help take the edge off is all.”

“Seriously? Now.”

“What, don’t ya like it?” Like was a bit of an understatement at the moment. Aaron would try to hold back his small moans of pleasure as she cradled and played with his balls.

“O-Of course I do. I-It’s just… ya caught me off guard is all.” Her smile soon faded, her hand retracted from his genitals, much to his displeasure. Before he could vent his complaints, Applejack soon straddled him, pinning Aaron down to the bed.

“That’s your first mistake, mister. Never let your guard down.” Her warm smile soon returned, mixed in with a bit of lewdness. Aaron could see she was planning something and there was no way he was going to stop her. Applejack’s hips slowly began to grind against his own, softly moaning as she felt something wedge between her thighs. “Now, how about we have a little fun before we get the day started.

“R-Really?” He would ask in disbelief, trying not to wake the others.

“Sure. Just to help ya take the edge off of course. I know how it is to be stressed out like ya are. What ya need is a good ruttin’.” Aaron couldn’t help but look at her in awe, feeling his heart flutter as he stared at the orange mare.

“Applejack.”

“Yeah, sugar cube?”

“I love you so much right now.” She chuckled deviously, leaning in to whisper.

“Wait until I’m done with ya.” Sitting back up, Applejack would let out a soft moan as she felt her lover slide into her depths. Aaron could feel the familiar and welcoming sensation come over him. Letting out a soft sigh, Applejack would begin to slowly bounce up and down on his lap. All that could be heard at the moment was her heavy breathing as she could feel her own pleasure wash over her.

Her movements were powerful but fluid. Applejack was in complete control and Aaron could feel it through her every motion. The grinding of her hips, the soft thrusts, the gentle swish of her tail; there was no doubt that she was in total control of the situation. There wasn’t a place in the world Aaron would rather be than right now. “A-Applejack?” Aaron said through a strained voice.

“Yeah sugarcube?” She opened her eyes slowly, a look of pure lust plastered on her face.

“D-Do you think I could… mmph… be on top this time?” Applejack would only smirk at him.

“Sorry, but I like being on top.” She paused to let out a sharp yelp from feeling him graze against a sensitive spot. “but… You can play with my breasts.” It wasn’t what Aaron wanted but he loved the alternative. He wasted no time in taking hold of her buxom breasts. His very touch would make her shudder as he began to massage her bountiful form. “Ohhhh… yeah… come on handsome.” Applejack began to pick up the pace, their hips would slap against each other to make a moist sound that seemed to echo in the room. Applejack wanted to keep their love making down but the pleasure she was feeling was breaking down her resolve.

She gave a few more thrusts and then came to a halt, softly panting to catch her breath for the moment. “You okay, Applejack?” Aaron could smell a thick musk starting to flood the room. The smell of their sex would arouse them both immensely.

“Y-Yeah… just… a little tuckered out.” She would take in a few more breaths before looking up at Aaron. Her mane would fall in front of her eyes, giving her a wild look about her. “How ‘bout you? This doin’ anything for ya?”

“You could say that.”

“Good, then I guess I best not hold back anymore.” Aaron was more than ready as AJ slowly turned herself around. Her back was now facing him, much to his admiration. Her toned shoulders, wild mane and shapely plot would drive him wild. She slowly flagged her tail for him, showing the dark pucker in the faint light of the room. Aaron had not seen a sight more beautiful, but his ogling would soon end as AJ readied herself. Her knees locked in place and her hands on the bed, once she was ready, she slammed her shapely hips down onto Aaron’s groin. “AHHH!!!” Applejack shouted loudly, feeling him reach deep into her folds.

This was the first of many loud moans she would make as she began to jackhammer herself up and down onto her lover. Aaron tried to hold in his moans but he was just no match for her. He would soon join in with AJ for a duet of lust filled moans and yelps as their hips collided again and again. “Ohhh fuck, Applejack… s-so good.” Aaron could barely form straight sentences as her thick folds gulfed him down repeatedly, feeling the love his marefriend dished out.

“Ahh… hahh… ahh… ohhh… A-Aaron… F-… Fuck me!” Aaron heard her command and would begin his own thrusts. Applejack began to howl like a wild beast once she felt him joining in, matching her deep thrusts with his own. It was tiring to keep up with a mare like her, but he tried his best to see to it that she got where she was going. “M… Moar.” She was trying to keep her moans to a faint whisper, but the wild sex was turning their minds to mush. Recalling their previous encounter, Aaron reared back his hand and slapped her right cheek, sending a powerful shudder through her and bringing her movements to a halt. It wasn’t long before Aaron felt a soft splash of her juices soak himself and the bed they laid on. “N-… No fair.” She stuttered, feeling her first orgasm rock her foundation.

“Heh, sorry beautiful. Thought you’d like it.”

“Ohhhhh… I liked it alright.” Applejack wouldn’t turn around, not wanting to show the dumb smile on her face. However, she could feel that he was still erect inside her. “H… How didn’t you cum yet?!”

“Dunno. I’m close though.” He reached up and brought her in for a hug, feeling the sweat that had matted her coat. “You want it outside this time?” She shook her head slowly.

“Dear Celestia, no! I wanna milk ya for all ya got.” Aaron couldn’t help but smile.

“You’re such a perv, AJ.”

“Hey, I can stop right now if ya want. I already came, I could just leave ya high and dry for the rest of the night.” Aaron smirked at her, only to be feel her soft lips bring him in for a kiss. “Though, I guess I got one more in me.”

“See. Total perv.” Applejack gave him a soft smack on the chest. “Ow!”

“Oh quit bein’ a big baby.”

“Is big baby?” The two would freeze, their heated time together growing cold as a third person came to interrupt the party. Aaron and Applejack turned to the door to see a small canine in a tattered robe. The sight of which made Applejack freeze up as she was still facing him with Aaron balls deep inside her. “Mink didn’t know friend had mates.”

“Mink! Not a good time, man!” Applejack covered her breasts with her arms.

“Sorry. Mink heard friend in room. Thought assassins come to kill friend. Mink now see something else.”

“Yeah, now ya best get goin’ before ya see too much.” Applejack growled.

“Mink meant no harm. Mink only brings gifts.” Aaron let out a soft sigh, feeling the mood had been ruined with the very bad timing of the diamond dog. Aaron brought Applejack in for one more kiss.

“Wait ten minutes?”

“Ya got five. After that, you’re gonna have to make it up to me.”

“I will. Promise.” Applejack let out a soft moan as he pulled out of her, feeling himself dripping her fluids as he got his pants on. “Alright, Mink. What’d ya come to bring me.” The two would leave the room, much to Applejack’s annoyance.

“Mink hear that friend fight Ra’om today. Come to give friend gift for luck.”

“Oh, well… I’m flattered, but… do ya think you can come back in like, I dunno, maybe ten, twenty minutes?”

“Mink can, but Mink here now.” Aaron would sigh.

“Yeah… Yeah you are.” With that said, Mink would reach into his cloak and brought out a shimmering black stone. “What’s that?”

“Mink’s favorite gem. Mink’s first gem. Bring to friend for being Mink’s friend. Mink’s only friend.” Aaron took the black stone, looking at it in the dim candle light. It was cold to the touch and as he looked at it, he could have sworn that it shimmered a brilliant rainbow. “Friend kind to Mink. Kindest in whole life, now that friend fight Ra’om, Mink want to see friend win. Give gem that brings Mink luck.”

Pocketing the gem, Aaron would smile at the diamond dog. “Thank you, Mink. I don’t know what to say, but thank you. I’ll repay ya for this.”

“Maybe name first born after Mink?” He asked with an innocent, and rather misshapen grin.

“I wouldn’t count on that. I can’t get mares pregnant.”

“Oh, great shame.” He shook his head and began to look about. As he did, Aaron caught a glimpse of something in Mink’s cloak. It was large, round, and glowing. Curious, Aaron knelt down and parted the cloth. “What friend doing?”

“Mink…” He reached into an inner pocket and brought out something he never thought he would ever see. In his hands was a vial; a vial of glowing, green synthetic magic. He could feel the warmth it gave off through the glass, the power it held. Aaron would look on in disbelief at what he was holding. “Where did you get this?”

“Mink find in hole. Big belt of them. Thought they were fruit that pony brought down.”

“What pony?”

“Wing pony that friend met.” Aaron would recall what he was saying and then thought of Lock Pick. “Mink said that there was pony and non-pony coming down hole. This smell like non-pony. Curious so Mink try... Mink no like.” There was a small bit left but it was nearly full.

“Mink, is it alright if I trade something for this?”

“Feh, take it. Glow too low and taste bad; friend can have if want. No use for Mink.”

“Thank you, Mink. I really owe you one.”

“Think nothing of it. Mink happy friend will find use for green goo.” Aaron held the vial close and turned to Mink.

“Regardless, I’ll find a way to repay you in the future. I promise.”

“Mink believes so.” The shaggy canine gave a broken smile, his beady eyes drifting apart ever so slightly.

“Aaron! Ya comin’ back or not?!” Aaron would chuckle to himself.

“Alright, I’ll be right in.” Aaron turned to Mink, only to see he had vanished from sight. With the diamond dog, he looked to the two gifts he had been given. He would pocket the gem and walk back to present the substance to Applejack, but he would find himself distracted by another sight entirely.

“Hey, there ya are.” Applejack shot him a lewd smile, posing on the bed. “What’cha got there?” Aaron brought out the vial, lighting the area up around them with its eerie green glow. The sight of the vial would make Applejack’s eyes light up, dropping her lusty expression for one of amazement as she slowly climbed over to make sure that she wasn’t seeing things.

There was no mistake; it was in fact magic. “Where… did you get that?”

“A friend gave it to me. He said he stole it from Lock Pick after he hid it in a hole. Apparently he took one from the belt. Kinda glad he did it to be honest.

“What do ya reckon we do with it then?” Aaron would ponder on what they could do with the magic. They didn’t have a whole belt of the stuff and couldn’t get much mileage off of it for any significant jail break.

“Hm… well, if you want, we can keep it for an emergency… or we can get kinky with it.” Applejack couldn’t help but stifle her laughter.

“As much fun as that sounds, how ‘bout we just save it for a rainy day. I’m all for a little experimentation in the bedroom, but I ain’t about to take anything suspicious. Besides, if I used that stuff, I’d probably pound ya into the ground if I used that stuff.”

“Alright then. Do you think you can hold onto the magic for me?”

“Sure, think I can hold onto that for ya. Maybe I can hold onto the magic as well.” Aaron rolled his eyes in amusement, setting the vial of magic somewhere safe for the time being. For now, he had unfinished business to attend to.

~~~~~

The time had come. Everypony in the mines had gathered into the main living quarters, cramming themselves into the tight confines of the area to witness the only bit of entertainment they would be getting in a long time. Ponies and diamond dogs alike were eagerly waiting around the stage that was now acting as the arena, waiting for both combatants to arrive.

In the main building, Aaron had managed to pry himself away from the comforts of his bed and lover to get his things together. Noon was coming soon and as he came out to greet his friends, he was met with various encouraging greetings, wishing him the best today. Shining and Draco were waiting by the door, keeping watch in case Ra’om pulled anything before the fight started. “Alright, listen here.” Shining started. “The Ra’om may not look it, but he’s a pretty tough customer. He’s most likely gonna be fighting dirty, so be on your guard if he pulls a weapon on you.”

“Sure thing.”

“And if he tries to get any outside assistance, the boys and I will make sure that it’s just you two.” Draco said. “As much as I’d like to get in on this and smear his face on the wall, we’ll stay back unless things get too hairy.”

“Thanks guys. I owe ya.”

“Actually… I think I’m the one who owes ya.” The room turned to see a weakened Rainbow Dash slowly making her way down the stairs.

“Rainbow, what are ya doin’? Get back to bed.”

“I’m fine, AJ. I’ve had my fair share of beatings over the last few years, I can take it. Besides, there is no way in hell that I’m going to miss out on Ra’om getting his ass kicked. I’ve waited too long for this, I’m not going to sit back and just wait in a bed.” Draco and his companions were frozen from the sight they saw, even Gilda found it difficult to look at her former friend.

Walking up to Aaron, she looked at him with a stern face. “Aaron, I may not know much about you, I don’t even know if you can pull this off.”

“Not helping, Dash.”

“But if you pull it off by some miracle, I want you to do something for me. Just one thing.”

“Um… okay.” Rainbow’s eyes began to burn, ablaze with fires of so much pent up rage.

“I want him to suffer. I want his every breath to be nothing but excruciating agony. I want him to feel every bit of pain he gave to me, to us back to him. Can you do this for me?” Aaron would nod, knowing full well that he would try to make her dreams come true. “Thank you. Now, is everypony ready or are we gonna stand around here with our thumbs in our plots?”

Draco chuckled to himself in amusement. “It’s good to have ya back, Dash.”

“As good as it’s going to get, kid.” Rainbow gave the stallion a friendly smile. Taking a deep breath, Aaron turned to the sheet that worked as the door for the building. He pulled the curtain aside and walked out to see the crowd of ponies gossiping among themselves. However, when Aaron stepped out, everything went silent and all eyes turned to him.

Not even an applause or cheer could be heard in the deafening silence. Though they would part to make a path for him to make his way to the stage, the looks he got were like that of a respectful mourning like that at a funeral. He and his friends would make their way through the crowd, no pony wanting to make eye contact with Aaron.

With each step he took, he would feel his confidence dwindle more and more. However, that didn’t mean that he wasn’t going to give up. He saw the stage just a few steps before him but couldn’t see his opponent. A sense of worry came over Aaron as he figured something was up.

Stepping up to the stage, he would look around for his opponent. The ratio to diamond dogs wasn’t all that large but he had memorized the canine’s face as best as he could. “Oh, you showed up. Wonderful.” Aaron heard his voice and it made him tense up with anger. Yet where he found Ra’om would confuse him. “In all honesty, I thought you were going to flake on me. I didn’t think I’d have any entertainment today. Goodie.”

The canine was sitting in a chair, relaxing as he looked up at Aaron and the stage. “What the hell are you doing? We’re supposed to be fighting!”

“Oh really? Well, I don’t really remember saying anything about me fighting you.” Aaron furrowed his eyes, growing angrier with every word. Something was wrong and Aaron knew it. He only hoped the others were ready to jump in if things get too hairy for his taste. “I said I’d give you what you want, and what you want… is to die.” With a clap of his hands, the ground began to shake. Ponies began to worry to what was coming.

Aaron turned to the source of it and began to tense up. Walking up to the stage was a hulking monster of a diamond dog, one he had met before. Rainbow, Shining and Spitfire knew what was coming, but the others were new to meeting the enforcer to Ra’om and his will. The monster of a canine would stand atop of the stage, looking down at Aaron. It’s gem encrusted mouth would smirk in amusement at his opponent. “Not pony back. Not pony hurt Grub’s friend; Grub smash you dead!”

“Now, now grub. Don’t kill him.” Ra’om would say. “At least not yet. I want ya to… beat the lesson of why one shouldn’t oppose their alpha. As if Rainbow wasn’t enough of an example. Though, I guess that’s fine with me. Grub,” The monster dog turned to its master. “You may have your fun.” Grub turned back to Aaron, eager to play with its new toy. Before he could begin, the others would reach up to the stage. “Ah, I wouldn’t do that if I were you. Grub is ready to play and if he gets too many play things, he may go into the audience for more fun. You wouldn’t want that now, would you?”

Draco and Shining held onto the ledge of the stage, more than eager to jump in and help, but they wouldn’t jump in at the risk of innocent lives. They were torn between two options that would most definitely leave someone dead. The only difference would mean on a larger scale. “Guys…” Aaron would say, trying to stop himself from trembling. “Just stay back for now. I’ll be fine.” Applejack could sense that was a lie, but she would stay back, at least for the time being. She felt the synthetic magic in her pocket and she knew she could take it right then and there, giving him an edge. However, she didn’t know if it would be enough against this opponent.

“Aaron, this is insane!” Applejack would shout. “Run!”

“I can’t do that. He’ll chase me into the crowd and others will die. That is the last thing I want to happen.” Aaron would stare down Grub, trying to hide his fear. “Just keep the others safe. I’ll… see what I can do about this.” Grub would laugh in amusement, slamming his fist down mere inches beside Aaron in a manner of intimidation.

“Not pony say funny things. Grub have fun with not pony.”

“Yeah,” Aaron got into a fighting position, easing his breathing. “I’m sure you are big guy.” Seeing Grub smirk, Aaron would react almost automatically as the fist that was buried into the wood beside him slide over in an attempt to knock Aaron over or smear him along the ground.

Leaping over the massive arm was easy, figuring out how he was going to hurt the hulking dog was where he ran into the issue. He would take a few jabs at the side, barely getting a response. Aaron jumped away from another fist rocketing toward him. Aaron was helpless against Grub, his attacks were barely registering and one wrong move would be met with a grizzly end. Each hit the diamond dog would throw at him got closer and closer to its target. Soon enough, one of them would connect and the result would not end well.

“Not pony no stand still! Keep tickling Grub, why not pony do this?”

“I’m trying…” he ducked under a heavy swing. “To fight you!”

“Then fight Grub. Stop tickling!” Grub swung his fist down into the stage, the force it exerted knocked Aaron off of his feet. Applejack tensed up from the sight, reaching for the vial in her pocket. She wanted to get up there and help him, consequences be damned. With no other options, Aaron went for the low blow. Once Grub turned to face his opponent, Aaron attacked. Rearing his foot, he would send attack the diamond dog with a kick powerful enough to knock Grub’s soccer ball sized testicles about. The room would be filled with the painful roar emitted from Grub, sending Ra’om into a fit of laughter from what he had witnessed while Shining and Draco felt an ache in their own groin area. They were happy that Aaron at the very least was able to cause some form of damage to the hulking diamond dog.

However, Aaron would soon find his situation grow dire as Grub took hold of Aaron’s leg. He was gnashing his crystalline teeth with rage, baring them to strike fear into him. Before he could react, Grub would thrash Aaron about on the stage like a rag doll. Applejack would only look on in horror as her lover was turned into a plaything for the massive canine. She couldn’t take the sight and would rush in. “Applejack don’t!” Draco shouted, but his words fell on deaf ears.

Roaring with anger, Applejack was ready to save Aaron from his fate but would find herself meeting the same fate. Grub caught her in mid leap, struggling to fight back but the hand could easily hold her in place. Grub brought his flailing to a stop and held Aaron by his leg. She could see the bloodied and tattered human, now struggling to keep his consciousness. Applejack would only grow angrier from the sight of Aaron severely beaten.

“Well, well. What have we here.” Applejack turned to face Ra’om, casually strolling up to Grub holding his prizes. Ra’om would smile as he met Applejack. “You’re an interesting one. I suspected that you’ll end up being an interesting one.”

“Hey, don’t you dare touch her!” Draco shouted. With a smile, Ra’om backhanded AJ across the face, sending Draco into a fit of rage. Strong heart and Bulk would struggle to hold their boss back with Spitfire trying to calm him down.

“Oh my. You’re quite the popular mare. Grub, are you done with your plaything?” The massive diamond dog held up Aaron, giving him a shake.

“Hm… not pony not moving. Not pony no more fun.”

“Then toss him. As for this fine young mare, break her legs. I don’t want her running.”

“Ra’om!” The diamond dog turned to the one who called his name.

“Oh, hello Dashie. What can I do for you?”

“Leave AJ out of this and call off your little hound.” Ra’om smirked in amusement.

“No, I don’t think I will. This young mare is quite nice; so full of life.” Ra’om ran a finger along AJ’s soft cheek.

“I mean it. Let them go.” Rainbow said in a stern manner.

“Or you’ll what? You think you can tell me what to do? Ha! That’s rich. No, I don’t think I will, Dash. You were a fun little toy but you’ve lost your luster. I think I’ll have fun breaking this mare in.” The ponies would turn to Rainbow in shock, wondering what he meant. However, Spitfire already knew the answer to that question.

“Ra’om.”

“Silence whore! You think you can tell me what to do? Do you think I care whether this mare lives? Well then… Grub, toss the mare.” Grub lifted Applejack up and sent her flying into a nearby house. Draco and the others would watch in horror as Applejack crashed through the stone, making a sizable hole in it. That however was as far as Draco and co. would take it. Roaring with anger, Draco and his team rushed the massive diamond dog.

Aaron was turned into a temporary weapon, being used to attack the oncoming group of ponies. They didn’t stand much of a chance, but that didn’t mean that they would just let their friends be turned into play things. While the others attacked, Gilda flew into the air and dived bombed at the canine, swiping at him with her sharp claws. Draco and Shining took on his legs, trying to knock the canine onto his feet. Strong heart and Bulk were attacking the head, trying to avoid the angry swipes of the large arms.

in the fury, the ponies would see Aaron being flung away from the fight after Grub accidently let go of his weapon, tossing Aaron into the same house as Applejack. Though there wasn’t a wall in his way when he fell in, his landing wasn’t the most graceful.

Aaron was in a severe amount of pain, so much so it was a miracle that he was still awake, let alone alive. He could feel his leg was broken, along with several other bones as well. Cuts and bruises decorated his body that would turn his clothes red with his own blood. He would struggle to get up off the ground, only to see Applejack lying motionless on the floor. She too was tattered but not as much as Aaron was. However, he could see a red patch of blood on her side that was also leaking a familiar green liquid.

With his one good arm, Aaron pulled himself across the room, trying to get to his herd mate. “A… Apple… j-jack.” Aaron would struggle to say. The very act of breathing was a challenge, his lungs burning with fire. “A-… Applejack.” His body shook, threatening to run out of energy before he even reached her. He heard a sound, a pained groan emanating from the unconscious mare. Aaron would let out a sigh of relief, knowing that she was still alive.

Applejack would slowly get up, gripping her shoulder in pained agony. “AH… f-fuck!” She shouted in pain. She could feel her shoulder was dislocated from its socket. She was too weak at the moment to push it back in. Feeling a moist sensation on her side, she would turn to see her other wound caused by the shattered glass of the vial she carried. But the moment she turned to Aaron, she would freeze in shock at the sight of him. He had one eye open, and he looked like he was struggling to keep it like that. He had a dumb smile on his face, over joyed to see that she was alive; Applejack wished she could say the same for Aaron. He looked like he was clinging to his last threads.

“A-… Apple-…” His hand landed in the green substance that was now mixing with Applejack’s blood. She placed a soft hand on his, trying to sooth him.

“I-It’s okay sugarcube.” She was fighting back a few tears. “Y-You’re gonna be alright.” A fearful expression formed on her face. She had lost her entire family, and thoughts of losing him as well began to cross her mind

“S-… Sorry…”

“Ya ain’t got nothing to be sorry about. Come on, just stay awake.” Aaron tried to smile, but his expression wouldn’t allow it as someone he dreaded walked in on their tender moment.

“Oh, I think he has much to be sorry about.” AJ turned to face the intruder, sneering angrily at him.

“Get! Haven’t ya caused us enough trouble as is?”

“Probably, but I still intend to make you my new plaything.” Ra’om walked over, taking Applejack by her busted arm and gaining an ear piercing scream of agony. “You’re going to be a fun one. Rainbow has lost that special vigor I longed for. You will be a welcome addition. You may even be good for baring a few pups as well.

“D-… Don’t…”

“Oh, you’re still alive.” Ra’om said in dulled surprise. “No matter. I think you’ve learned your lesson. If you live, just chalk it up as how merciful I can be.”

“Get off- AHHHH!!!” Applejack was pulled along, bringing her to her knees as pained tears began to flow down her face.

“Silence. Toys aren’t supposed to talk back. Now, let’s get going before Grub starts a rampage.”

“N-NO!!! AHHHH!!!” Applejack was pulled along, screaming the whole way. Her legs gave out as she was soon dragged. The last thing Aaron saw was her tortured screams of pain. He wanted to get up, but he was far too weak. He was too weak to stop Ra’om, too weak to fight Grub, and too weak to save those who mattered most in his life. Vision beginning to blur, Aaron found the last shred of his strength wain as he fell onto the ground.

Aaron began to find his breaths slowly starting to shrivel up as a strange numbness started to take hold. He was dying and he knew it. The last sounds he would hear were the terrified screams of the ponies beyond. Grub was losing himself and would soon turn his attention to the bystanders.

Before the last breath was drawn, he could feel something strange in his right arm. It felt like it was on fire, yet inside his veins. Feeling began to return to him, and with it he could feel strength. Within a matter of seconds, Aaron would take in a large amount of air as both eyes shot open. The strange sensation that began to flood him began to mix with his pain. That’s when he saw what was happening. Cuts began to close, bruises faded, and bones would realign themselves. The healing process was unlike anything he had ever felt, but once it was over, he had never felt any better. But the sensation didn’t stop there.

He felt his muscles start to flex, a potent sensation began to wash over him. Aaron found his breathing grow sporadic and short. His muscles lurched and tightened with every breath he took, but with it he felt more strength fill his body. With a final gasp, Aaron’s blue eyes began to change into a brilliant green that began to glow.

Standing tall, Aaron would be able to hear the sound of Applejack’s agony, slowly getting quieter the more she was pulled away. He wasn’t about to let Ra’om take her and turn her into his new plaything. However, he had to take care of something first. Or rather someone.

In the midst of Applejack’s screaming fit, Draco and his cohorts were tossed off in a fit of rampant anger. Grub was drooling from the excitement, turning his attention to the crowd. He wanted more fun, but he was also starting to feel hunger. With a wealthy supply of toys and food, he barely knew what to do with himself.

But before he could, he smelt the scent of familiar blood. Turning to face the smell, he would soon find Aaron standing before the crumbling building. “Not pony still alive? Not pony want to have more fun with Grub?” Aaron didn’t speak, all he would do was stare down the hulking monster of a diamond dog. The lack of a response angered Grub, knocking back the last of the two with a less than amused flick of his fat finger.

The two met, barely several inches from one another. Grub let out a snort as he raised his massive fist. Shining tried to call out to Aaron to move, but he was out of breath to utter a single peep. The fist would slam downward towards Aaron, who didn’t move a muscle. Some of the ponies couldn’t bare to watch the human be smeared into the gravel. Some close by would expect there to be a shower of blood, but it never came. Some would open their eyes in awe, others were left speechless at what they saw.

Grub could barely believe it, but it was happening. Aaron managed to catch the meteor fist with one hand, holding it just above his head. “W-What!?” Aaron tossed the large fist aside and crouched down.

“Sho-“ Aaron balled his own fist, clenching it as hard as he could. “Ryu-“ Aaron shot up into the air with a massive amount of thrust. His fist struck its target, kicking Grub into the air with enough force that managed to knock every gemstone out of his mouth. “KAAAAAAN!!!” Ponies would stand with their mouths agape, even Applejack, Draco, and Shining were left in utter disbelief as they all watched the towering canine start to fall back and land on the ground with a loud crash. Blood began to pour out of his mouth as he laid there on the ground, groaning in pain. Aaron landed on his feet, panting as he felt a rush he had never felt before in his life. His adrenaline rushed through him, the energy that he had seeing Grub’s teeth fly out of his mouth was a sight he wouldn’t be forgetting any time soon.

The area was silent, ponies still processing what they just saw. The diamond dog they had feared for so long was just rendered unconscious by a strange creature that was barely showing any progress in hurting it. Now, they were in the midst of a being more powerful than Grub, one that didn’t have anyone to control it.

Applejack let out a yelp, catching the attention of Aaron. Just in the nick of time, he saw Ra’om run off into the tunnels in hopes of escaping his fate. Furrowing his brow, Aaron would give chase. Ra’om was about to meet his fate, whether he wanted to or not.

~~~~~

Ra’om was running through the catacombs, a foreign sensation running through his mind. For the first time in his life, he was afraid. Afraid for his life. Grub was an undefeated beast of a warrior that Ra’om had manipulated well and cemented himself as the alpha of the pack for so long. Now, the one thing that managed to bring down Grub was coming for him.

Ra’om ran through the caverns, twisting and turning around the tunnels to make sure that nothing could follow him. He came to a chamber with a large blue lake radiating a light to illuminate the room. Ra’om fell to his knees and would take long gulps of water, trying to work himself out of the fit of terror he was going through at the moment.

Panting heavily, Ra’om would tremble as he looked into the pool of water. The pool would slowly calm down before he saw himself looking back, the sheer look of terror plastered on his face. That face only grew more terrified as he saw a dark figure in the back with two glowing green eyes looking back. “Now, I know what you’re thinking…” Ra’om was cut off, feeling something force his face into the blue waters. Ra’om squirmed wildly trying to get free.

Ra’om soon felt his head being brought out of the water, gasping for air as he was soon flung over to the wall. The canine roared with pain as he felt pain flow through him. “Wait… c-can’t we talk?”

“No.” The voice growled, lifting Ra’om by the neck and pinning him against the wall. Ra’om could see the green eyes in the darkness, staring into his own. He could see everything; the rage, the hate, all of it directed towards him.

“P-Please… have mercy.”

“Strange; you show no mercy to others, and yet you plead for it.” Ra’om soon found two hands take hold of his throat, lifting him up and pinning him against the wall. The only thing he could see was the silhouette of Aaron against the blow glow and his two glowing green eyes. He could see the rage, the hatred he felt for Ra’om. Aaron began to squeeze Ra’om until he began to gag and gasp for air. Aaron would lean in close to his ear, getting close until Ra’om could hear his enraged breathing. “Fine. You want mercy… then beg for master.” He would whisper. Aaron removed one hand from his throat, bringing it back and drove it into the canine’s gut, hearing his yelp of pain and soon vomit echo through the area.

Ra’om would pant huskily, trying to catch his breath before being tossed to the ground. Weakened, Ra’om could only crawl away with tears running down his muzzle as he trailed tears and a trail of urine. He would soon cry out in terror when he felt himself being turned over to face Aaron’s wrath once more.

Pinning him down, Aaron would begin to unleash his built up anger and rage into the diamond dog. Remembering everything he had done to the ponies, to his friends, and what he would have done to Applejack and Rainbow Dash. Aaron made sure that each fist that connected with his face would not be strong enough to kill him, but powerful enough to where he would feel every blow. Ra’om would feel teeth being knocked out and blood filling his mouth, he would pray that the beating would end soon.

Just as it seemed that Aaron ran out of strength, Ra’om would cough and whimper as he looked up to see the monstrous green eyes. “Please… I-… I’ll do anything.” Aaron leaned in to listen to his fearful voice, taking in his fear.

“Anything. Can you give Rainbow her wings back?” Ra’om couldn’t answer that. “Can you un-rape her, undo the humiliation she’s felt every time she subjected herself to you?” Again, no response. “What about the ponies? How many of them have gone through what you put Rainbow through?” No response, but Aaron would soon get one. He drove his fist into the stone beside Ra’om’s head, creating a sizable crater. “ANSWER ME!!!” His voice would roar.

“I-I don’t know!” Ra’om cried out, terrified beyond reason. “I-If this is about the Rainbow mare, th-then you can have her. She’s all-GAK!” Aaron straddled Ra’om once more, dragging him back to the pool of water.

“You think you can get out of this… by selling my friend to me?!” Aaron forced his head back into the water, watching Ra’om flail about and try to escape, only for Aaron to pull him back up. Ra’om would cough and gasp for air, a weakened look in his eye.

“Please… no more… I yield. I’ll do anything you ask. Just please… spare my life.” Rage in his eyes, he saw the look of total, abject fear plastered across the diamond dog’s face. His beady eyes, looking down at Aaron as he held him in place. Aaron would continue to squeeze down on his throat, hearing him desperately gasp for air. Leaning forward, Aaron would whisper into his ear to give his response.

“… No.” Before Ra’om could beg more, the room was filled with the sound of a sickening snap. Aaron had done it and with little to no effort. The moment he loosened his grip, Ra’om fell dead to the ground. His body lay lip and the look of fear forever etched into his face. Aaron would stare at the creature, panting softly as the realization had hit him; he had just killed someone in cold blood. There was no question that Aaron hated Ra’om, even loathed his existence. However, never in his life had he ever killed someone over it.

His body felt heavy, legs trembling as he fell to his knees. He had crossed a line he had never hoped he would ever have to cross. Yet he was staring at the body of another living being he had killed with his own bare hands. “Aaron?” A voice called out. Turning to face the entrance, he would see Rainbow Dash walking in. She would freeze the moment she saw the glowing green eyes staring back at her. “Aaron is that you?”

“Y-Yeah.” His voice cracked as he spoke. Rainbow slowly approached, only to look on in shock as she saw the unmoving body of Ra’om laying at Aaron’s feet. The sight caught her off guard, thinking her own mind was playing tricks on her but as she came closer, she would see that what she was seeing was true. She couldn’t remember how many nights she longed to see this day come, wishing that Ra’om would meet an ill end. Now, her dreams had been realized. The only way she could be happier is if she could have dealt the killing blow herself, but just seeing Ra’om dead was more than enough for her. She turned to Aaron with a smile, only for that smile to fade at the look of the human.

Aaron had a blank stare on his face, fixated on the corpse of Ra’om. “Are you okay?” He didn’t respond immediately.

“I… I don’t know.” Rainbow took a closer look at his face, only now realizing what it was.

“Oh… he was your first, wasn’t he?” Aaron would shoot Rainbow a look. “I mean your first kill.” He nodded. “I thought so. Look, I know it feels… terrible the first time, but I can guarantee you, what you did was right. Ra’om was a monster; no pony is going to mourn him.”

Aaron let out a sigh. “I know. I’ve just… never taken a life before.” Rainbow placed a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“It’s always tough the first time, but it’s good you got it out of the way now and with a real monster.” Rainbow stood up and glared at the corpse, glad that the world was rid of him. “Ra’om won’t be missed, I can tell you that right now. He’s done many terrible things to ponies and to me, all with a smile on his face.” Aaron soon rose as well, turning to face Rainbow. “Whatever the outcome, you did these ponies a great service. It may not be morally sound, but I can tell you that there are plenty of ponies who can sleep soundly at night now.” Aaron would sigh, running her words through his head.

“I… guess you’re right, Rainbow. It still feels… awful.”

“It usually does. It’ll numb in time, trust me.” Rainbow took in the image of Ra’om dead on the ground one last time. Taking a deep breath as she felt a great weight removed from her shoulders. “Come on, let’s get back to the others. They’ll want to know what happened.” Aaron nodded to her, walking off with Rainbow and leaving Ra’om’s corpse to rot in the cave. He really hoped that what Rainbow said was true about the strange sensation that came over him.

~~~~~

The small town was abuzz with talk. Ponies would salvage what they could from the monstrous diamond dog that had almost gone on a rampage of destruction, which was now laying on the ground unconscious and in a severe amount of pain. Applejack was outside the main building, stifling her grunts of pain as the doctor bandaged her arm up after popping the ball back into the socket. He had already removed the broken glass from her side and was already feeling the effects of the paste they used. “Alright, Miss Applejack, you are good to go. I suggest you not use that arm of yours for quite some time.”

“Thanks doc. I’ll be sure watch the arm.” Turning to her friends, Applejack would see that they were not in any better of a situation than she was. Draco and Shining had taken a beating and had several fractured ribs. Demo Reel was nursing a minor concussion and a shattered right hand. Bulk, Spitfire and Strong heart had barely gotten out of the fight with broken legs. They’d be walking with a limp for some time but other than that, their injuries were on the lines of severe bruising and deep cuts. However, she was more worried about Aaron.

She saw him run after the alpha dog, but what sent chills down her spine was that look on his face. She had never seen him look so angry in her life, and those eyes; the sickly green tint was etched into her mind. The unnatural tint of it gave her a bad feeling all around. The strength he displayed was not his own. Whatever that was, it had saved the lives of her friends but she couldn’t shake the feeling something is very wrong. “Hey, AJ.”

“Huh, what!?” Applejack was brought out of her deep thoughts, turning to face Draco.

“You alright, AJ? You seemed kinda out of it.”

“I’m just… worried about Aaron is all.”

“He’ll be fine. You saw what he did to that behemoth. One punch KO; I had no idea he was that strong.”

“Y-Yeah… neither did I.” Draco had a worried look as he saw Applejack’s expression.

“Hey, don’t worry about it. I saw Rainbow run after him. So he won’t be alone.” Applejack could only sigh.

“Yeah. I guess you’re-“ Applejack was cut off when she saw Rainbow, followed by Aaron, emerge from the caves. The two walked closely together, the ponies all stopped what they were doing. Before they or anypony could talk, Aaron and Rainbow were stopped by three diamond dogs. The three could see they were terrified of Aaron, not daring to make eye contact with him.

“W-What has become of our alpha?” Aaron would not answer right away, but he would show them his bloodied fist.

“Ra’om… is no more. He died by my hands.” The three would back up a bit, but still remained.

“I see… then… by the laws of combat, you take his place as alpha.” Aaron watched as the three bowed to him, recognizing him as their new leader. The ponies began to whisper, fearing that they would have a worse jailor than the last. As for Aaron, he was left speechless, but he knew what he could do to make use of this newfound power.

“Very well then. As first order as your alpha, I want you to set the ponies free. Dig tunnels that lead to the surface, far away from the griffon camp.” The diamond dogs were shocked from the order.

“But… our slaves will be lost.”

“I know. That is the point. They’ve been kept here against their will for long enough. It’s time they got to go home.”

“But… but…”

“Are you questioning me?” Aaron said in a stern voice. The diamond dogs felt a surge of fear run through them, feeling the chilling stare.

“No, no we will do as you ask.”

“Good, now, as you are doing that, I want you to help me build several smaller tunnels leading to the griffon encampment.” The canines whimpered softly.

“You are not going to give them more of the gems are you?”

Aaron shook his head. “No. You no longer have to give the griffons anymore gems. From now on, the entire mine is yours to do with as you please.” The diamond dogs beamed, over joyed at this revelation. “But… if you want it, you’re going to have to help me fight the griffons.”

“But they outnumber us.” Aaron looked to the crowd of ponies.

“I’ll take care of that.” Pushing passed them, Aaron walked up the stage, all eyes turning to him in wonder what he was going to say or do. Applejack and the others were among them, all ears for what he had to say. “Um… hi.” He started out. “I’m not the best at speeches, but I guess I’ll try. My name is Aaron; I am… a being from another world and I am here to help. You may not believe me or… even care. To you, I’m just some strange thing that showed up and started causing trouble. But I want to tell you that things will be better now. Ra’om is dead, slain by my own hands and I have claimed his pack for my own.” The ponies would gasp and gossip. “But I am not like Ra’om. I will not keep you locked away in these caverns. As of right now… you are all free to go.” The would stare at Aaron in utter disbelief, thinking that this was some sort of trick but some were more than eager to hope it to be true. “Once the tunnel is dug out, you will be able to flee this place and never look back. You can find your friends, family, whatever. You are free… but… I need your help. The griffons have captured Twilight Sparkle and are holding her captive. They plan to give her to someone who will deliver her to Tirek. I need your help to save her. I cannot do this alone. Please… help me save her.”

The ponies would look to one another, debating among themselves of what they wanted to do. If they believed him, they would be able to return to their old lives, or what was left of them. However, the couldn’t knowingly abandon a princess. Some would step back, having too much to lose, but some would come forward for the challenge. More and more ponies came forward, outnumbering those who could not fight for one reason or another. They would have more than enough to match the griffons. With a smile, Aaron stepped down from the stage. “Thank you. All of you.” He took a deep breath. “I guess we have some work to do.”

Author's Notes:

Sorry it took so long guys. Anyway, I'm back and I hope to get back on schedule. Hope ya liked this one. Even if it does rely on the deus ex machina. I promise I won't make that a constant thing... or at the very least try to.

Next time; Chpt 20; ... Rescue the Princess.