Note: Please read the Author Notes to learn about what I'm doing for the stories' second anniversary....

The Domain of Dust
Luna's PoV

My breath hitched itself as my eyes drank in Alkeyore's true form, the creature I saw in my dream was staring at me with it's silvery eyes yet this time it was different because I knew it was Alkeyore.... my only real friend in a thousand years. Not some monster. He is not Sombra. The frightened look on his face when I first lay eyes on his true face strangely warmed my heart as it concern me, he was forced to take up the form not of his own because of something he couldn't help, he was born like this and had to live a lie in order to protect his family perhaps this is how Changelings feel in a way.... Shaking my head of the thought I set my mind on other things such as Dust and that thing Chaos. I didn’t know what to make of the two Dust and his impossible abilities, just he had so much power even more so than a elder god or Chaos and the notion he was Discord yet not Discord but created Discord but there was one thing I knew.

Celestia may see a monster but all I see is a man that had suffered, a stallion I could relate too. I smiled as I sorted through the weapons I had to choose from for the spar both exotic and known I recognize few of armaments that Dust had, this was something familiar, this was something I knew, when I was just a filly Celestia and me use to spar... I was always the best fighter of the two of us she was always the better mage. But that was in the past Celestia never spars with me anymore. It thrilled me that Alkeyore accepted my challenge now I can show him of what I could really do and turn I can see just how powerful Alkeyore is but there Dust's words repeated themselves in my head if Alkeyore was in his most natural form then I would of had died at the start...... Does he have another form he had yet to show? No that can't be it Alkeyore said that creature was his true self...... Hades... of course! How could I've forgotten Alkeyore's stigma.... if Alkeyore fought in his natural form his stigma would be fully release. Base from what little Alkeyore told me about stigmas that was never a good sign.

With a hum I selected my weapon, a light blue rapier at the same time Alkeyore chose a pair of clawed gauntlets that covered much of his arms. A strange choice I thought not seeing why he chose that for his only weapon after all he already had clawed hands then I reminded myself that from what little I had seen from Alkeyore's combative style, it relayed on his magics rather than his skills with a weapon. Or he wants too see how I would react.

''Alkeyore'' I called out to the Nephilim his silver and black eyes shining in the light as if a reminder of what he truly is. Again my dream haunted me with the image of Celestia cradling the butchered forms of Discord and Spike... that monster wasn't Alkeyore it wasn't him. He is nothing like Sombra..... then the memory of the Red horn played in my mind's eyes reminding of who he just was Sombra Rex the Violet Flame and the King in the North, the creator of the Alicorn Amulet, my best friend.... the stallion who wanted to marry me but I didn't loved him like that he was like a brother to me. My heart sank as the image of a stallion whose destroyed himself for love danced before me... could Alkeyore face the same fate as he? I did not know. Mother please grant me this one request don't let Alkeyore fall as Sombra did... what Sleipnir did to him was unforgivable he was the caused that destroyed the kind stallion once I called friend... the monster he was turned into.

'' Luna'' said Alkeyore interrupting my dark thoughts, entering the same stance he used with Celestia and Discord interrupted us back at the castle and his face hardens, '' why are you doing this?''

'' Alkeyore don't go easy on me'' I requested while not answering his question. I dare not tell him why I wanted this lest I lose my nerve I wanted to prove to my sister that I knew what I was doing but most of all I wanted to prove myself to Alkeyore. I wanted to show him that I too could fight. I wanted to show him that I am no mere mare, I wanted to show that I am the only one he wants, the one he should be with.... what am I thinking? I asked myself as more possessive thoughts enters my mind's eye showing me scene after scene that left me..... Mother preserve me! I'm turning into Cadence! or even worse my sister!

''Then you going to regret that'' he says then he launches himself at me with his clawed arms wide. His wings adding to the force that he launched himself.

I smirk at him and his foolish mistake he left himself wide open. I lunged with my rapier aiming for the opening only for him parry my strike with one single claw then in a flurry of strikes I was sent flying crashing into the wall with a loud crack before falling to the ground on my knees dazed. I glared at the stoned faced Nephilim before using both my wings and a series of speed spells I flew at him at top speed with shout but to my surprise he sank into his own shadow. Canceling my spells I stop in med air looking for the dark magic then in a blink of eye he was on top of me raining down savage and brutal blows shattering my rapier. I struggle to block each blow but he was just too fast by the time I deflected one, nine of his gashed into my coat .... teleporting away from him in order to catch my breath and for my magic to ease my wounds from existence. Returning to the ground Alkeyore just stood waiting for me to make my next move allowing me the time I needed.

''Alkeyore...why are you holding back?'' shouts Dust taking a moment to watch the spar frowning while seeing at her chance Nightmare stole a glance at the spar '' you could've finish this farce straight from the beginning!''

My eyes widen at the implications... that was him holding back... by my moon. He was right if he didn't held back then I would regret it. This wasn't like the spars or the battles I fought a thousand years ago this was something else... and I liked it, '' Alkeyore... is what Dust say is true? you were holding back?'' I asked in a small voice.

'' I am Gaeaish, it's doesn't matter if we hold back or not we still fight brutally'' said Alkeyore emotionlessly answering and not answering my question at the same time'' now come at me show me your power!''

At hearing his reply I felt new trills I never felt before and they demand satisfaction and willingly I gave in to them, focusing my magic I created a ring of sword constructs sent them all soaring through the air only for Alkeyore to create a wall of pure flame melting the constructs into nothing. Then shadows materialized in the form of spikes coming from the ground almost impaling me it was only thanks to my wings I escaped that fate focusing my horn I fire a beam of pure moonlight at him and to my horror he ripped it two with his bare hands the only damage my attack did was destroy his only allowed weapon, the clawed gauntlets. How could he....how could he rip my spell to pieces as if it was nothing but a minor annoyance? I placed a hoof over my heart urging it to still itself. This was a battle the matters of the heart has no placed here. I had to find someway pass his guard but how? It was clear he was the more experience warrior…there must be something I could do? Celestia and Discord are watching….

''Is that it? Luna you're starting to bored me'' said Alkeyore in a calm tone while his hands burned with magical power then methought that the air grew denser as his magic grew blacker. '' Come on little filly! I thought you would be more of an challenge!''

Once again focusing my magic I recasted the series of speed spells increasing my speed to my upper limits then reached deep into my magical reserves gathering the innate magic and allowed it to flow though my horn along with my divine power before flying at the Nephilim leaving a trail of starlight in my wake, '' Power! You wanted power Alkeyore! then face the Night's full fury! Lunar Art Starfire Blitz!!!'' I cried determined to show him what he wanted, my power, this time he didn't vanished into the shadows no he held his ground.

''Black Art Crimson Nightmare!!!'' He shouts in response the whole of his form bursting into a pillar of redden aura pulsating waves and after waves of red magic. The waves of magic fills the room ripping asunder almost everything they touch, Dust hastily summon an force field of magic covering both him and Nightmare grinning madly at seeing the destruction our spar had caused. Nightmare on the other hoof drops her... whatever that thing is.... and was watching me with wide eyes. Yes my daughter! Watch Mommy!

I cut through the red waves, my lunar magic piercing the redden magics before they could touch me. I smiled madly at seeing Alkeyore’s surprise but that smile quickly faulted when the dark magi winked at me before bursting into a flock of ravens causing my charging form to shoot through the flock completely missing him. He then reforms with a dark but taunting smirk.

‘’Time to end this my friend, Shadow Art Wylde Hunt’’ He shouts trusting his hand out towards me out from his hand black tendrils shot before warping themselves around my limbs effectively binding them down to my sides before pulling me towards him, I blushed heavily when I felt his hands on my coat and my ear flicks under his hot breath as he hotly whispered into it '' I win''

I closed my eyes and instinctual leaned in my head onto Alkeyore's powerful chest listening to his slow and strangely comforting heartbeat before tilling my head up toward him with my heart racing with exertion and I dare say love opening my eyes half lidded, daring him to kiss me. Alkeyore’s soft silver eyes gazed deeply into mine causing my heart to start racing as his lips lowered to mine....

‘’Oi if you’re going to fuck there’s a room for that! I just cleaned the floor!’’ shouts Dust shaking his fist at us ruining the moment.

I sighed as Alkeyore's tendrils vanished into shadow releasing me as I instantly started mentally reprimanding myself for what almost happen I didn't know if I had falling in love with my only friend nor knew if he felt the same yet I felt my cheeks warm up at the memory of being held by the Nephilim. By the moon I think I'm in love.... in love with Alkeyore. Perhaps seeing Cadence was not needed though it still would be wise to see her yet... why should I? I already knew that I was falling for the Nephilim. We almost kissed.... my first kiss.

''A-Alkeyore'' The words felled from my lips before I had the time to think of what to say '' tell me about Gaea, I know you don't what to talk about your past... I understand really I do but could you? could you tell me of the land you hailed from?''

''Why? why you ask this of me?'' asked Alkeyore with an look in his eyes his tone a mixture of questioningly and something else ''why you want to know about Gaea?''

''Because I want to understand, I want to know more about you'' I said with hopeful eyes I needed to know more about the man who had seemly stolen my heart'' please Alkeyore just some insight that is all''

''Gaea is a harsh land and home to even harsher peoples'' started Dust with a wave of his hand easing the damage the spar had caused and my daughter leaving her game returning to my side Alkeyore glared at the strange human but Dust rolled his eyes at the Nephilim '' yet given how both their society works and the fact they are in a war of attrition for the past eight thousand years that also destroy a large part of old Gaeaish culture it's only natural that their peoples are harsh by nature. There are currently twelve Gaeaish kingdoms Adin; Amos; The Beron Empire; The Duthy of Draaos; The Dark magi Confederacy which Alkeyore is the ruler and founder of; The Remnants of Aylie; Ern; Land of the Fey; Rohnir the land where Alkeyore hailed from; Tahuia; Torth; Orciemia which are also home to twenty two different races but according to the ancient records originally there was over two hundred nations that resided on the Gaeaish continent which gave the land the name of The Two Hundred Kingdoms Of The Golden Land yet that was before the rise of the Fallen Realms and Demon king Tydorel, the one responsible for the eight thousands years of war that confined the Gaeaish into the Hrydion peninsula so named for the hydra like shape it takes, the reason why for there were over two hundred nations in the Gaeaish past is in fact Gaea is a borderline super continent which also makes the situation in Gaea even worse since all of the surviving Gaeaish are confined to a very very very tiny in comparison peninsula because thanks The Demon King and his Fallen Realms the rest of the continent is an extremely toxic wasteland where you must have powerful magical protection just to set a foot in it, hell it's neigh impossible to repair the land it's so damaged even with magic. To make the situation even more dire is in the the twelve kingdoms the most of the surviving races absolutely hate each other and constantly war against each other which in a way is a good thing you have to keep the population low somehow. In Gaeaish society the highest authority are The Count of Twelve who ruled the kingdoms since Alkeyore is a Gaeaish King he sits on the count, and The Lords of Magic again I'm sure he has told you he a member of the Lords of Magic, they govern the magi clans and the first and only defense against the creatures from the fallen realms.

Gaea there is no peace, the word itself has no consent to the Gaeaish, war is a central part of their way of life and culture to the point where in finding a mate Gaeaish will look for the one that offers the ideal protection veterans; powerful warrior mages, basically battle proven men and women almost instinctual but of course love dose plays a part in this then once they find in interest they must earn the right to court and marriage the one they have an interest in for example if Alkeyore wanted to court you Luna then he must prove his worth in battle to you either by some feat of skill, strength and wisdom then he can court you this often will lead to an trade of sorts he'll give you something that remind him of you and you'll do the same then the long process of courtship begins until when time is right he'll challenge your father or the clan's head to a duel for your hoof in marriage. If he wins then by right he can ask you to be his if he loses then that will be the end of the courtship....well most of the time that is, some will keep on issuing the challenge till they win or they die. Romantic in a way I hear.

Then there are the clans, they are perhaps even more important than the Count of Twelve and the Lords of Magic. The clan is central to Gaeaish society because without a clan an Gaeaish is nothing and defenseless, in Gaea to be defenseless means death. The clan's head duty is the defense of their kin and of course lead the clan, when Gaeaish are in trouble they'll immediately head to the clan's head hold which is often built on the ground the clan was born on, the keep is not only an place to gather the clan in safety and where the young are protected from the clan's enemies it's where the clan's armory is kept. In the clan there's the head family and the branch families, the leadership of the clan belongs to the pure bloodline of the clan: the head family. when the young are born the first born is given the father's name and the second the mothers forming the bond between clans or the families but only the clan's head and the parents know which of the young belongs to their clan, this is done for the protection of the young when the clans go to war. An Clan War is very brutal which is very fitting for the brutal fighting styles of the Gaeaish and their very very long memories, Gaeaish take every wrong very seriously yet because of that, the histories of the Gaeaish peoples are extremely well documented no matter how bias they can be at times. It is strange that such an warlike society like the Gaeaish makes them excellent scholars.

From birth a Gaeaish is raised to be a warrior some clans like the Blood Ravens are legendarily for the great warriors and magi that came from their brood. While some clans like the Stone Talons prefer to be great masons and craftsmen. Yet despite the large focus on Warcraft the Gaeaish are very advance, the Gaeaish Nobility must earn their nobility by doing a great service to the kingdom or the Gaeaish king but the children of the Gaeaish Nobility can't inherit nobility, no once the noble dies the rights of being nobility are striped away and the only way to reclaim the right is to earn it. In Gaea nothing is given only earned. The Gaeaish craftsmen can craft weapons and buildings that can last thousands of years without consent repairs they would need in time while Gaeaish magic is extremely powerful and elaborate and Gaeaish law is very harsh and extremely demanding but fair even more fair than some of the worlds I have visited.

For an example if a noble or a regular Gaeaish breaks the law he not only lose his or her lands, titles and most of his or her wealth, They and their entire clan are banished from the kingdom with the promise of death if they should ever returned yet there is an way for them to regain entry one the clan kills the ''oathbreaker'' and ease their name from the clan's records the clan is allowed to return and reclaim their former holdings or two, one of the Clan's head children does an 'service'' for the kingdom like warning the king that there's an army at the kingdom doorstep; binding themselves though a blood contact to sever the kingdom until the debt is repaid; marrying into the royal bloodline. But if there's a traitor in the king's court then he gathers the nobles and offers them ''the right of stone and water'' which basically means I know that you know who the traitor is and if you bring him or her to me then the traitor's clan holdings is yours as long you have the proof of course and I might look over your part in plot if not then I'm sure that one of the others will turn you in. A thief once caught must work off whatever he or she stole while wearing a bell round their neck for the rest of their lives or demand an Proving where the thief duels the captain of the guard or a beast if the thief wins he's free to go but if he loses then oh where did that arrow in your heart came from I wonder. As for murders, the victims' clan then by right can kill the murderer or in some Gaeaish nations kill someone of equal worth to the murderer like if you killed somebody's wife then the widower can kill your mate. Slavers and Rappers are often buried alive or banished to the Fallen Realms armed with only a knife and again to be killed if they ever tried to return.

The Gaeaish Language is befitting ancient for a very ancient people, there are two main forms of the tongue. Old Gaeaish and common but there are other tongues as well D'Haran the language of the magical creatures; Bryi-hal the elvish tongue and many dead tongues. Alkeyore's name is D'Haran for The King in Sapphires and while his clan name Blood raven is Old Gaeaish so named for the red raven banner the first of the clan carried into battle, lead by Baldoel the bloody raven the son of Aron the Ravenking the father of the clan. The 'father' of an clan is the most important figure in an Clan's lore both magical and historical because more often than not the clan is expected to follow their father's footsteps. Aron the Ravenking is one of Gaea's greatest champions thus by being land's greatest hero cursed the Blood-raven to be forever bound to the fate of Gaea.... all Blood-ravens will die in battle as he did. There were others among Aron's statues Uerk the Wild; Selma the Silver haired; Talos the Red; Groim the Stormbringer; Arline the Ice-queen and of course their present day counterparts Gwion The Elder; Alkeyore Blood-raven the shadow devil; Hagi Krak-v-Drum ; Senna Rose; Tegid Kaos ; Erk the Wooden ; Screech ; Garanhir the Golden; Morning Star; Teigue Shinedown the white....

When the Gaeaish lose a loved one or in the old Gaeaish tongue Mel'lokr which their word for both friend and sibling they crave the image of the dead into wood before burning it and offer the dead an offering to pay respects.

The Gaeaish are dying, and they know it. They know that this ancient war with Tydorel will spell their end... it was bound to happen. Many of the Lords of Magic had warned the Gaeaish many times they can not hold, it is impossible to fully retake the whole of the continent because of its toxic nature and that it would take entire generations just to lower the toxins in both the air and the soil.... that is time they don't have, Alkeyore and his team was the very last chance the Gaeaish had for survival... the last Gaeaish Champions. And just by seeing Alkeyore is here and not there only means that they had failed in their mission to defend Gaea at all costs yet knowing the Gaeaish they will fight on just as they always had, it is just in their nature until the last Gaeaish is slain and until the Gaeaish way is dead they will fight.

In essence the Gaeaish are an practical yet very complicated folk, anything else you would like to know Luna?''

''Dust!'' growled Alkeyore his right eye twitching

''What?'' asked the strange human smugly '' She wanted to know so I gave her some basic information about you Gaeaish and besides you need to tell her about your past anyways''

'' I wanted to tell her about Gaea on my own terms. I wanted to save it until Celestia gather the Avalonian leaders as per our agreement so I could inform them of the Dahirm-hal threat accordingly and ensure that .....'' Alkeyore tailed off at the look on my face '' why are you looking at me like that?''

I had to earn right to his heart... the Gaeaish way is strange very strange but perhaps the pony way is frightening to him as well, the peaceful ways I was raised in must be so alien to him but are they only products of the land they hail from? could I teach him blissfulness of peace? How am I going to earn his heart? I am battle proven yes but that would do me little good Alkeyore was the better warrior and had proven too much wiser than I many times, he was so much more skilled that is the only way I could see why I lost to him. What feat I could do that would reach him according to the Gaeaish way? Or had I already proven myself in his eyes? I may had lost the spar, could of I had won the war in losing? Ohh I lamented how do I go about courting him!?! what am I supposed to do to in order to begin the court process? I know I need to give him something that reminds me of him, we ponies give flowers that matched the coat of one we wished to court then a feather from our first molting lastly an item created from our own magics ....w-would he accept me? would he want to be with me an pony? Then there was that word Dahirm-hal...

''What's an Dahirm-hal? you had mention that word before what does it means?" I asked in an mixture of curiosity and worry, Alkeyore had said that this Dahirm-hal was a threat... an very dire one if he wishes to gather the other leaders that much I knew from what he said it. Yet I still knew very little about the Gaeaish though Dust's words had shed some light on them and their ways .... Alkeyore stills refuses to speak about them outside of how terrible and cruel he time among them was, how he was a hero and that his fam-

''An Dahirm-hal is a mage who willingly sold his or her soul to an demon for power or those who willingly serve Demon King Tydorel '' interrupted Alkeyore which surprised both me and Dust, I thought that he was going to refuse to give me answers once again '' the word itself means 'the traitorous dogs of the waste', The blood feud between the Gaeaish and the Dahirm-hal is as ancient as the war against Tydorel is itself but that is all I will say about the subject until Celestia holds the meeting... Luna and Nightmare it's time we finished this lesson and check on Moonlit, I fear for her. She was already weak to begin with that and I don't trust Chaos to leave her unspoiled.''

'' Come now Alkeyore this is Chaos we're talking about it's not like we left the them with Lust or Light hell even War watching over them.'' said Dust

''At least War does have honor and Lust is too vain to care what others think, Light is a control bitch and despises the both of us I think that last time she was here Fenrir pissed on her, I'm sure her hair is still stain with wolf piss but Chaos is well chaos no knowing what he has in that excuse of an mind he has.'' said Alkeyore flatly.

War? Lust? Light? what kind of names are those? I mentally asked, are they some how relented to Chaos? It appears another mystery had flown into my hooves... I wonder what Tia and discord make up of what had happen to us so far, all the things we had seen and learned since setting hoof into this realm. I knew I could always contact them by the mind talk spell yet.... Did I wanted too? No I don't, I don't want to talk to Celestia she's been not herself since finding me in Alkeyore's arms back in Canterlot though Alkeyore didn't help the situation in anyway but then must be something to make them get along at least for a while or until I was ready to talk with her... I needed to speak with her about Nightmare but I don't want too.

'' You're still mad at him'' said the strange human with an smile

'' He likes elves... of course I'm mad at him'' said Alkeyore uncaringly before changing the subject '' Nightmare the next part of the lesson is entering the spirit realm itself. Call forth your magic before your body and then pour it on yourself like cup of water while saying the incantation '' I seek the realm in between worlds may the gate be open death show me the way, gate of life and death open says I.'' '' You will only need the incantation only this once because after visiting the realm of spirits once will allow you to walk it with naught but a single thought, Once we are in that realm stay close to us for the realm is home to both good and dark spirits many who will want an young mage like yourself to feed off of or a little soul trapped with them forever.''

'' Alkeyore '' said Nightmare bashfully while her tail slightly wagging with small almost unnoticeable movements but of course I saw it since my divine senses were strong even in this realm yet I was blind to much of the Domain of Dust. Though I couldn't sense the secrets of this place I dare not to try out of fear that it would upset the lord of the realm Dust who proved to have strange powers and were much stronger than I if I trust the feeling in my bones... Alkeyore was right we should of listen to his wisdom but we thought that we knew better as Discord had said '' are you going to retake your human form or stay in your true form?''

Alkeyore raised a brow at my little filly '' I take it you like this form of mine?''

''Yes... could you um stay in that form just a little while longer?''

''For you my student I will but when we return to Avalon I must retake my guise, this body of mine be strange to you yet you like this from why? Few had see this form and fewer had lived to tell the tale thus why I named the Shadow Devil by the Tahuains for they had seen me in this body cloaked in shadows. Tell me why you wish to look upon me so Nightmare, why both you and Luna fear me not?'' asked Alkeyore his wings fluttered revealing for a moment his full wing span as if begging the Nephilim to take to skies. I suck in my breath at the sight of his full wing span they were massive and since I was part Pegasus my heart was further drawn to Alkeyore Pegasi mares were instinctual attracted to males with big wings it had was something to do with the primal aspects of Pegasi magics those with bigger wings often the perfect embodiment of being Pegasi. With a bit of shame I felt my own wings twitch with the need spring from my back to flash him with my own wing span, it only due to my mental fortitude that I kept what the Pegasi called an wingboner from making itself known.

''Your are my friend'' I said truthfully and my heart once again regaled me with my unclear feelings, '' From that day in my chambers you give me kindness and comfort, though I haven't known you for long, I want to share the same with you that much I do know... My heart tells me many things and I need time to discover their meaning but I want to be there for you as you were for me.''

''I know there nothing to be afraid of Alkeyore '' said Nightmare smiling '' you saved my life and became my master. What is there to be afraid of? If you wanted to cause harm then why save me? why you protected us from Celestia? why when Dust tried to make the deal with me you stopped him? You care that's why I don't fear you... as for you body I much prefer you like this than your human form.''

''Nothing eh?'' said Dust with a deep frown ''well hate to burst you naive foolish girls' bubble but Alkeyore is an killer, he had been trained from birth to kill and he had willingly partake in monstrous actions from slaughtering entire towns to the last child; torturing and devouring people humans beasts doesn't matter he dined upon their flesh and blood; sample the fruits of many women; An Hades Stigma with the power to corrupt others to the point they will wither away to dust and come back as undead under his complete and total control just by in his presents; Hen he is perhaps the most fitted to be my student of the millions I had taught there was nothing left in him for me to ruin his darkness was so seeped into his very soul. You should afraid him. He is merciless and relentless he can and will kill you if he chose too and there is nothing you can do stop it why because he is one of the ageless kin to both demon and angel not yet man breast or god. The Ageless are beings old as existence itself they above gods and second to only the Entities...he will outlive the both of you if either of you wish to be with him ''

I refused to believe what Dust was saying, Alkeyore is my friend he'll would never hurt me or Nightmare... but then I recalled the gryphon Alkeyore burned alive, the fury he held upon his face as he release the blacken flames. Hen despite Alkeyore's refusals to tell me about his past I am learning it by bits and pieces... his stigma the curse he has...

''What Dust says is true I am an Nephilim the child of demon and angel,'' said Alkeyore in cold tone interrupting my thoughts ''the third ageless race we had existed since the start of time. I am an killer but I hold true to my oaths for it is in my nature so you two haven't nothing to fear me yet I can not say the same for Celestia whom I have little love for. There is an great balance in the world one I had spoken of once before to you Luna for there to be darkness then must be light, that speaks of the race that Chaos hails from the Entities the creators of existence they created everything that is, was and will be. Chaos is one of the Eight. The Eight are the coronal aspects of existence it is through them we and everything we see exist and without them nothing can exist all eight are need, under the Eight are the other Entities such Love; Lust; War; Hope etc. they are born from the actions, thoughts and emotion of others as long they exist so does what they represent and there are the Ageless the first of the Entities' children. Under them are the gods the caretakers of the multiverse and under gods are the immortals and so on. This balance is similar to an caste system the Eight at the top then other entities and the Ageless; then gods and Immortals, mortals.

'' What do you mean Alkeyore?'' I asked my eyes widen with all of the new information and mysteries that the Nephilim gave willingly, is that what Chaos meant when he said he created Discord... impossible. That can't be. It doesn't make sense all the pony myths and the words of Sleipnir the oldest of our race lies and yet at the same time truth? Sleipnir had said that we Alicorns were created by All-mother Harmony and we alone are her children and we are meant to rule over all. But if what Alkeyore said was true then we have brothers and sisters....'' who created the Ageless?'' the words left my mouth before I could recall them.

'' The demons'' said both Alkeyore and Dust ''the first race of the ageless have no father or mother they appeared after the Eight created the multiverse, we believe that the Demons were born from the lament energy that was leftover thus making Demons the first lifeforms bestial creatures without minds of their own, but the Eight were torn with what to do with them, you see since the demons formed from the leftover magics they were unplanned thus earning the ire of Harmony who believed since the demons were never meant to be they needed to be destroyed before they could ruin what she called the innate harmony of the newly born multiverse. The other seven decide that they should wait and see what the demons would do for they were busy with designing lifeforms and wanted to study the demons to know what to expect in the desolate multiverse, sadly Harmony didn't see it as so. In her rage she created angels the second race of the ageless metallic and emotionless beings for the sole purpose of the easing of the demon race by doing so her actions gave birth to Rage and his sister Serenity and the war between angels and demons.

Time passed as the war was waged the actions of both sides created more and more entities adding to the number of the Entitic race while the Eight argue amongst themselves of what to do with the new entities and Harmony's mission to destroy all demons at this point the angels had succeed but then Harmony's favorite creations the Three Archangels Michael Lucifer Gabriel then begun to notice something they were never meant to have.... emotions at the same time the demons discovered thought.. the greatest of the archangels Lucifer took it upon himself to discover the reason for the sudden mutation in both races and his newly discovered lust for knowledge proved too great for the angel and though his experiments to find further knowledge he created Lust; Pride; Envy; Wrath; Gluttony; Sloth Greed and of course their counterparts but he also did something never seen before he took up a demon for a mate who bore him a daughter the very first Nephilim Hope before turning on his fellow angels and Harmony herself to save the demonic race. At his sudden betrayal his brothers Michael the father of War gathered all of the angelic army and attack Lucifer's realm that he claimed for the demonic race and fought him. The fighting was so fierce it not only gave birth to War and his sister Peace but to this day angel wept and demons shudder as if dipped into molten metal at the mention of the battle. In the end both Archangels the greatest of their kind broke and their brother Gabriel disappeared not barring to see his brothers fight or what they become... Lucifer became the first arch-demon while Hope grew into a great beauty and like her father she took a demon for a mate before fierce and never again did Michael drew his sword and that is the story of how the final race of the Ageless the Nephilim was born.''

''Your people were born of war??'' asked Nightmare in an sad tone, feeling my maternal instincts I nuzzled my little foal's muzzle. I did not like this story it went against everything I was told of the All-Mother Harmony, yet could it be true? Sleipnir had proven that he wasn't to be trusted and I know he despises me. He said it so many times... I wish mother was here she would know of what to do, mother father sister they were to only ones in the Pantheon that cared for me but do they? Faust Venhayia were both gone and Celestia..... no I mustn't think like that I have a daughter to think about!

''Yes, the very first war..'' said Alkeyore with an hard look, his silver and black eyes gave the appearance of being hollowed '' it wasn't long after that, both demons and angels alike started to slay the Nephilim because we not natural beings as they were we shouldn't of had existed not even Hope and her child were spared causing the sundering of the demonic race to thousands upon thousands of different fractions. Lucifer the Fallen is still out there hunting for his daughters and grandchild killer as well seeking out Gabriel as we speak... Dust you met with the first archdemon have they found out who the killer was? ''

''Yeah, it was an succubus class demoness by the name Arnia that did it, I think I have her skull around here somewhere she was pathetic she didn't even survived the first of my tests .. so anyways how about that spell huh, I mean that Nightmare should be ready by now at least '' said Dust twitching due to his clear inexperience in teaching non-stigmas. how many had he taught I wonder?

'' I believe so'' I said not sure since I didn't know the magical style that both Alkeyore and Dust were teaching my daughter. I felt a deep frown on my muzzle, the Nephilim are the children of both Demons and Angels and in turn they themselves are the children of Harmony or at least born of her power..... doesn't that make Alkeyore...*gasp* my brother? '' Dust'' I called the strange human that say he was over ten thousands of age the man that Alkeyore calls friend.

''Yes? what is it?' said Dust

'' Alkeyore comes to you for council yes?'' I asked not knowing how Dust or Alkeyore would take it. Alkeyore brow furrowed not understanding why I would asked the question but it seemed he felt something.

'' Aye he does'' said Dust looking at the Nephilim then back to me smirking

''Would it be fair if I asked for your council? I asked causing Alkeyore to move from dust and towards me.

''Luna I think that not a wise choice'' said Alkeyore moving towards me his wings twitched from disuse but an snap of Dust fingers freezes him in place along with Nightmare. I felt my jaw drop he had not only froze my companions but stopped time itself, an feat no Alicorn had ever manage to do even the Alicorns of time lack that power. Just what kind of power Alkeyore brought us too...

''What you want to talk about? I though that you didn't trust me which is the wisest thing you had done since coming into my home so what do you want to speak about?'' said Dust

'' Harmony'' I stated as I felt my throat go dry '' created Alicorns...'' I tailed of at look of Dust face.

''Oh... I see.'' said Dust slowly ''that's an problem especially with Alkeyore's slowly discovering feelings for you but then again it would of little matter to him since he's an Rohnirian.... you see the Rohnirians are wild folk they don't really care if you pardon the phase 'keep it in the family' no they prefer not to just speak about it cause in the wilds that kind of thing just doesn't matters yet that might be different with where you're from correct? ''

I nodded ''yes, there are laws against it''

'' Luckily he is a Nephilim, in that race incest is an impossibility because of their unique biology and they are a precursor to modern life forms ... no Nephilim are the same of the biomass so technicality you in the clear but you are an equine....''

''And what's that's supposed to mean!'' I growled my wings spread giving me the illusion of being bigger than what I actually was but judging by the look on his face he wasn't impressed or even cared.

''Oh nothing really it's just....equines are known for inbreeding'' said Dust '' but never mind that now your real problem is the fact your race is one of Harmony's creations if I was you then I wouldn't go around telling people that especially since she tried to ease all of existence.''

''What?'' I shirked, according the tales Harmony was peaceful being with the love of life she couldn't...

''Yes she attempted to ease all of existence and I was the one who killed her... one time we were allies but after the giving birth to her daughter Pandora she went mad, her husband Chaos tried to help her but it was too late she needed to be put down so I killed her and the angels in order to them from completing their mad mission, '' said Dust calmly as if his past relationship with Harmony was meaningless or it seems as so to me but I didn't knew the strange mage well enough to read the truth of his expressions '' and Alkeyore dose knows that I killed his angelic kin but that matter very little to him since he is more demonic in nature and body than angelic, he even helped in the slaughter on their fortress... so I'll warn if you continue you on this path of claiming him as your mate which I am supportive of because of Alkeyore's sake and to see what comes outs of it, but if you break his heart you'll wish he killed you when you met him after I'm done grinding you soul into dust and use your body for my experiments'' he finishes nonchalantly ''Oh don't bother trying to argue or understand me you clearly lack the ability to do so...''

I open my mouth but as soon I did Dust interrupted me before I could form an single word.

'' Luna tsk tsk you should listen to your elders. Tell Alkeyore about your races' parentage or not I don't really care, but remember Alkeyore is not a saint nor he wants to be, he will kill anyone for his own reasoning don't try to change him... in fact leaving him as his bloodthirsty self will save your life in the end, trust him Luna, love him for the warrior-king he is meant to be or not as I said I don't care now was there something else you wanted to speak about?''

''Yes.... why he refuses to tell me his past yet he freely shares all of these mysteries? and how I earn the the right to his heart?'' I asked a bit of annoyance for the strange human in my tone.

'' One that is just the way he is,'' said Dust shrugging his shoulders,'' plus he has many memories he doesn't want to relive, do you know that he saved countless lives and in return he was banished from the land he damned himself to protect.. well dammed is too strong an word since he was damned before he was even born it almost broke him you know all the countless sacrifices he made only for them to spat back is him if it wasn't for me and some friends he would of killed himself by now.. and there was other things that played in that point of his life before he forged his kingdom and join the Lords of Magic... it would be for the best if you waited until he felt that he was ready tell you about his adventures. AS for earning his heart just be yourself because you already taking root in his heart..'' ''Now we need to get back to the others being frozen in time is quite rude.''

''Wait''' I called lifting my hoof at the strange human ''just o- '' but it was too late Dust snapped his fingers canceling out his time magic then I found myself wrapped comfortably in the protective embrace of Alkeyore's arms his soft ashy blue fur rubbing against my darker blue nicely. I felt my cheeks catch fire at the closeness.

''Luna! Are you okay? Dust you should've known better than to take her out of the time steam, her body isn't like ours'' growled Alkeyore his eyes flaring up in pale blue flames licking the corner of his eyes, I felt the feather like touches of his claws checking my coat for injuries it felt nice... The I felt Nightmare rubbing herself up against like an cat cause an small smile to grace my lips.

''Mother, art thou in one piece?'' the little filly asked looking up at me cutely.

''Oh quit your worrying Alkeyore she is fine, and how is she suppose to do to get stronger if she doesn't take risks eh? and stop being so possessive... oh wait your part demon sorry.'' said Dust sheepishly even with my very limited knowledge of demons I knew that demons do had possessive tendencies... why am I just now?... By the moon Auntie Hel controls and creates demons why am I just now... This is worrisome I should... what should I do?? Demons are not an area I am experienced in or had studied. Demons are solely Auntie Hel's territory and it would be pointless for me to seek her out for anything the only time I see her is when the whole of the pantheon is gathering.

''Alkeyore. Nightmare.'' I said '' I am fine though I'm not sure why you worry so?''

''Because you were ripped out from time itself, I know not if you Alicorns can exist in places where time does not, I would be fine since my race is older than time and Dust is a True Immortal, an another being that can exist outside of time... it was very dangerous thing of Dust to do.'' said Alkeyore satisfied with find not a mark on my coat. Slowly he removed himself from me and in doing so I gotten an another look at his badly scarred chest but with his natural fur the scarring didn't look so bad yet at the same time I felt my heart race once more. I wonder how he looks without his ruin robes on...

''And she came out fine'' Dust added ''oh that's reminds me...''

''Reminds you of what Dust?'' said Alkeyore rising a brow at the strange human, his pale blue flares dying out as if something drained them of their magic giving way to his silver and black eyes to be seen.

''Your gear'' said Dust snapping his fingers once again but this time instead of stopping time Alkeyore's ruin robes changed into dark colored silk shirt and pants with a crest of the red raven long his back and an long sash of silver tie at is his midriff. The clothes made sure to show off the Nephilim's lean muscles and at his hip was tied an strange sheath-less sword marked in runes of an language I had never seen before yet I could read it 'Raven's Talons' then tied on the other side was an enchanted bag but was really took my breath was that shirt was sheave less... it left Alkeyore brutally scarred forearms bare they were worse than the ones on his chest or so I though yet since I only saw small glimpse of his chest I couldn't tell which was worse. Nightmare audibly swallowed at the sight of the scars her eyes wide yet I couldn't tell if was from whether fear of Alkeyore himself or his training methods. Alkeyore himself finches at the sensation of cool air brushing his scarred flesh and called upon his magic to create sheaves covering his arms from sight.

''The bag of course contains medicines; armaments; clean robes and your personal grimoire... don't ask how I got my hands on that you'll risk your brain would just cease existing if I explained it and plans for an golem of my own design. I'm returning your families' sword to you, I have the feeling that you're going to need it so no point in keeping it here. And of course the new outfit is well just because why not.''

''My thanks Dust'' said Alkeyore slowly '' I do see your reasoning in returning my gear to me but isn't this outfit a little much?

''Would you prefer an Ernian suite'' deadpanned Dust

''... This outfit is fine enough thank you..'' flinched Alkeyore before taking an moment to grow use to the new outfit the subtle movements of his lean catlike muscles hypnotize me much like an moth to light my eyes following each and every subtle movement idly I wonder how he looked in just his fur alone. Was he like a stallion or the humans in the books? Mighty gods of destruction and creation; spirits of revenge the books calls them many things, are the stories true? I didn't know everything I thought to be true had changed, all because of one man everything had changed but I liked what I saw. '' Now then Nightmare, the spell if you will.'' he said with magic playing along within the gaps of his fingers dark as his nature.

..Luna Blood-raven has a nice ring to it...

Sometime later
Alkeyore's PoV

I smiled as we returned to the realm of the living with an sleeping Nightmare in my arms. She had done well in the realm of spirits once she had master my teachings she will able to walk and commune with the dead on her own and hopefully help them find the endless peace that is darkness. Just as the original necromancers did long before the coming of the white wizard. Luna came galloping to us as color returned to our bodies.... to be in my true body after so long staying in human form was strange... I couldn't remember the last time I was in my true form, it had been so long. Dust of course busied himself with his many notes he took on the young filly in my arms. Oddly I was happy to see that Luna didn't flinch at seeing my true form again... but then again this isn't Gaea, I suppose since she wasn't an Gaeaish my demonic self matter little to her. Then I remember her words... she was falling in love with me... me of all creatures and I for her. What an strange notion love was, it is something alien to us dark magi because we couldn't explain it nor plan for it though there was many a spell only Love could break like the sleeping death spell, Love it always came at a surprise and we hate surprises...

Love...I did not deserved it. Love belongs to the light and I to the darkness

Hen, then what about your wife Nephilim hm? said Caldorel, his dark growls making the demon known to the world once more ''You loved her.... you loved her you Nephilim firth does she not matters?''

''Caldorel... do not test me, if I die then you die'' I mentally growled back '' Have you unlocked the charm on my memories or not? If not then go back within the depth with you and bar the Hades away from our mind.''

'' Hen patience, patience master, memory charm are such fickle things if I do the wrong incantation the Hades' influence would the least of our worries'' said an amused Caldorel '' patience remember you must hold to your half of the deal... become an arch-demon and you will have your memories.... until such time has come to path why don't play with Luna oh I smell her innocence.. Ah yes she would a fine feast indeed when are you going to fuck her HA. ''

With my dark power I ripped into the demon before banishing me into the blackest depths of my mind buried with all of my fury and that of my magics feeding off of the torment I cursed the fel-unicorn demon with. How dare he spoke of her like that! She is Mine.

...Yet still he did had an point if I am to become an Arch-Demon then I must create an demonic fraction of my own, each Archdemon is the head of one of the many fractions in the demonic race and thus must have an demon legion at his or her command for the purpose to dominate and sure the Arch-Demon's will is obeyed... Could I do it? I had spent so long defending the younger races from Tydorel's demon legions, becoming an Archdemon would betray everything I ever stood for, will I become something worse than he? Am I no better than Teigue? No I would not! I am Alkeyore Alternis Blood-raven the Shadow Devil son of Talos Blood-raven Rohnir's Red Talon and Archdemon Amdula Arusi the lady of beasts! My logic is sound! I will rebuild my team and I will create my legions! I am a Demonic Nephilim and I will Rule these youngling races.

''Alkeyore how is she?'' asked Luna in maternal concern taking me from my dark thoughts of conquest.... she is so beautiful, '' is she okay???''

''She is sleeping Luna'' I said lowing the sleeping filly to between her mother's wings and using her wings Luna covered Nightmare in them much like an makeshift blanket. The weight of the Raven's Talon on my hip instantly reminded me to weary of it since it lacked an sheath, summoning some of my magic I sent it into my space pocket to be summon when I need it's services.... the Raven Talon the Blood-raven's most important artifact the very same sword that Clan-father Aron the Raven king once wielded against Tydorel himself and the very same weapon that freedom my mother's mind from Tydorel's control.... the blade that killed my human father.... only the head of the clan may wield it. I would need to turn it into a demonic soul blade once I find an black forge... Am I really doing this? Am I really going to surrendered the last of my humanity for total damnation? No there is nothing human left in me only darkness.

''You should be proud of her my friend,'' I said my smile returning to my short muzzle, I couldn't but help to smile at the sight of Luna carrying Nightmare on her back, her beauty stealing all of my senses and reminding me that my feelings would taking their toll on my heart... I wanted her.. no I-I couldn't, I am an dark mage love isn't meant for those in darkness '' she did very well much better than I did when I first attempted the spell''

She smiles at my praise '' is that so?''

''Aye, but Dust says that it's time that we returned to Avalon, '' I said my smile faulting at the notion, I just grew comfortable to being in my true form after hiding so long.. '' if we stay here any longer then we might never want to leave plus Dust need to ready the domain for training his own student.''

''I thought he was going to teach the Kirin Moonlit as well??'' said Luna in a questioning tone

'' There been an change in plans'' mumbled Dust his nose deep in his notes. ''need to run some tests...'' snapping his fingers the room changed once more entering the room where we left Chaos in charge we were pleasantly surprised by the sight we found. Both Celestia and Discord was tied up and muzzled with Chaos drawing on their faces while Moonlit still lied in bed in an deep sleep alongside Pandora.

''Alright you two little godlings I hope you remember this, never try to make sense of the inner working of the universe when I Chaos the very persona of all chaos there will be, is and long past chaos helped to make the multiverse, you'll ruin all the fun just like that bore Tzeentch and his lot."

Who? what kind of name is Tzeentch?

''Chaos, you really need to stop playing Warhammer 40k....'' complained Dust pinching the farrow of his brow ''you getting the game lore mixed up with our multiverse again before you know it you might attempt to bring the game pieces to life ''

''Oh relax Dust.... '' Chaos tails off perplexed '' I think you're too late on that one'' he mumbles under his breath forgetting that both me and Dust could easily hear him before adding '' I see that you're getting ready to sent them off??''

''Yes, I need to start your daughter training'' said Dust taking note of Celestia's and Discord's state '' you know Celestia that muzzle looks good on you''

''Mppphhm!!'' growled the while Alicorn glaring at both Dust and Chaos, while I try to stifled a chuckle at their predicament, I wonder what they did this time... How could Luna think these two as paragons of wisdom? Bah more like fools then anything. Yet of course they are young very young compared to the likes of Chaos, Dust and myself included, then again the youngling races are encroaching in territories that always been in Ageless and Entity control which perhaps explain the why in Demonic aggression towards them. Demons being the first of the Entities' creations believe that they should hold dominion over the multiverse for the reason of being the eldest (more powerful) and grievance for the attempted genocide in the Demonic race infancy.... then again the different Demon fractions each claim their own reasoning, the mind of an demon is unknown in reality it must be an side effect of their more primal origins and natures. Tydorel's demon legion Gaea's greatest enemy are an anomaly when other demon legions are concerned most demon legions dominate their plane of existence out of the physical and mental need to rule and to 'free' their rightful subjects from the laws of the Entities while Tydorel's only seeks to destroy.... recalling on both my and Caldorel's knowledge Tydorel became what he is now out of the desire to live so he stole the powers of the Gaeaish gods and absorbed them into his very soul, each time he absorbed an entire race the more powerful he grew but with the more power gain, he begun to slowly relives that the more power he took.. the more he ate that it not satisfied his hunger, his undying lust for more life and further power remained and he felled into despair but he still ate till he took so much he foolishly absorbed Gaea's soul revealing unto him that as long he lived so did Gaea and the only for him to die and end his suffering was destroy Gaea and in doing so would kill him. Then I felt my heart stop would that happen to me? I had already thought my becoming like him...... No don't think like that Alkeyore. You are nothing like him. Shaking my head of such nonsense I instead focused on my next move. The bond I share with my students and Luna was still weak if my plans to uncover what really what over two thousands age is to succeed I needed stronger bonds with my small number of allies and I needed a better sense of the political struggles in Avalon in order to discover which was a likely target for Dahirm-hal insurgency and of course build an force to quell the Demon mages... then I needed to see history scrolls to uncover any hidden threats and possible allies if I recalled what Luna told me in her room so long ago was true then compared to Gaeaish politics Avalonian politics should be relatively simple to deal with.. Darkness binds me I grow tired of the great game of thrones but it is my duty.

''Sister...'' said Luna with a frown upset at her sister's bound state but there was something else there in those words '' when we return to Avalon we need to talk..''

'' On another note how was the little one Chaos??'' I said with concern in my voice as I looked Moonlit over once more luckily it seems her wounds remained closed but it was the state of her mind that caused me alarm though she seemed to be fine when she was last awake but mental scars are a tricky business.

''Oh the Kirin? despite her current state, she is an strong little filly'' said Chaos his ionic insanity inducing grin fading from his lips ''...did the one that gave her those scars were punished...''

''Yes..'' I said coldly the word causing the Avalonians to look at me, the way I said that word told them that death's reapers collected a soul for the seven hells since both Celestia and Discord were muzzled they couldn't question what happen or my judgement while Luna remembering the blood on my form just looked from me to the Kirin on the bed, the shame of failing to protect one of her subjects weighing heavily on her , collecting the Kirin into my arms and once again casting my healing magics on her to make sure I didn't overlooked her many wounds '' I sent him and his men to the realms of death to face the final justice....''

'' Good'' Chaos hummed darkly '' if it's one thing that bone head can do right it's seeing that justice is done''

''Then again Justice is his son'' Dust add '' and my teacher''

''Death... he taught you... '' asked Luna shaken at the consent of Death teaching Dust and Dust teaching me, death is a funny thing... everyone fears death they fight it with everything even the Ageless and the lesser entities but are those that seek it... they want to die but death has no sway over them which makes everything rather boring and pointless.

'' Alkeyore are you ready? '' said Dust ignoring Luna,

''Aye Dust I believe everything is in order... unless they want to stay '' I said jesting towards Celestia and Discord which gave cause for the two so called gods to glare at me '' though if they should stay then you would at some have some new subjects for your experiments...''

''Go or stay! Either way is fine with me, I don't care as long they don't reset'' huffed Dust hotly

'' Er..what???'' both me and Luna went not understanding what Dust meant.

'Don't ask about it Alkeyore'' said Chaos shaking his head '' Now if you excuse me, I'm going to draw on my Pan's face... what color should I use HA!'' The crazed entity of all things did just that drawing on the sleeping maiden with greens and blues giving her an bead and matching mustache.

Okay since everything is in place and you haven't lose anybody in my H.O.M.E'' said Dust as his magic started to rise all round us, bathing the whole room in many colors , along the floor runes known and long forgotten danced.. the wind picked up causing my new sash and Luna's hair to go wild as did Celestia's. The wind was soon joined by pale golden flames that didn't gave off heart or burn. Together the winds and flames started to circle us if it was an pack of wolves circling its prey. Then the circle starts spinning faster and faster.

''GET OUT MY HOUSE YOU BASTARDS!!!!" I hear Dust yells before the world goes black

The Kingdom of Awan
The Gem Highway

Fraxture's PoV

My hooves crunched the stone of the road under their weight as I sat on a boulder a little ways from our camp on ‘’The Gem Highway’’ Awan's most famous trading route so named by the many jewel mines it leads to and the many more merchants that use same road. I sat alone and took the moment of peace to over my armor and weapons, ensuring that their were polish and sharpen all to keep our cover of being merchant guards for the merchant caravan we joined into order to pass through Awan all the quicker. While the highway was to safest way into Equestria it too had it’s troubles bandits, pony raiders, thieves out here it was more safer and wiser in numbers and getting a little bit of coin on the way was always welcomed. The caravan end station is the Awanian capital city Ire. But perhaps to most important reason why we joined up was to collect more rumors of Human sightings, the merchants did always had loose tongues it came to rumors and the like.

Looking over my shoulder towards the big campfire and the different occupants. It is a strange merchant caravan perhaps one of the strangest I had seen in my years of seeking out the gods, the caravan held nearly every race in Avalon both natives and ponies and in the distance was Fort Iron-Claw just one of the many forts that guard the trade route thus creating safe stops throughout the entire stretch of highway it had always been said that The Gem Highways was the lifeblood of the diamond dog kingdom.

Around the campfire was No-wing the wingless gryphon and Mari Kruch the Centaur maiden both formerly of the northern Centaur band... my new traveling companions, talking up the merchants. It had been some years since the last time someone willingly traveled with me, as an Seeker it was expected of me to remain in solitude hence one of the few reasons why I speak so little it was expected of me yet I didn't minded having the two following me and help me to my destiny... they at least did make the traveling a bit more bearable by filling the air with song and a story or two from the ancient days. I didn’t question them when they first started following me. How could I? I’ve saved their lives and in return they were honor bound to me that and they didn't listen when I ordered them to return to Centaur country.

No-wing voice deeps with both a smile and glint in his eye causing the many natives share the same look. while the ponies looked around us nervously when they started to sing, bring a small grin to me.

The castle is lit with candles and torches
The carriages of the ponies arrive in front
The smell of splendor and decadence
And nobody can foresee

The masters and the mistresses are walking through the hall
They are smiling, laughing and showing that they're tall
They don't recognize that we're waiting there
And just nobody can foresee
This is the last night of the Alicorns

We are Aronnos's folk and we have the right
To stand up and to fight for an independent life
We are the force, we are the might
And we will stand up for an independent life

The ball has begun and we're closing our trap
Inwardly we're gathering ourselves
While the dance comes to higher pace
Still nobody can foresee

Joining the circle in black robes unknown

Unsheathing our swords and get ready to dance
Our hearts are filled with the will to survive
In the last night of their lives
It's a murderous, murderous ball night

We are Aronnos's folk and we have the right
To stand up and to fight for an independent life
We are the force, we are the might
And we will stand up for an independent life

We are heroes, heroes of the night
We are ready to live forevermore
Our gods will lead us through this fight
On and on, we are one and on our way

We are Aronnos's folk and we have the right
To stand up and to fight for an independent life
We are the force, we are the might
And we will stand up for an independent life

Then Mari sang as if in reply causing for the ponies among us to scurry away and into their tents before poking their little heads out. Seeing the scurrying ponies caused our follow natives to let out a gruff before joining in the song

We drink to our youth to the days come and gone
For the age of oppression is now nearly done
We'll drive out the ponies from this land that we own
With our blood and our steel we will take back our home

All hail to Aronnos you are the high king
In your great honor we drink and we sing
We're the children of Avalon and we fight for our home
And when Annwfn beckons everyone of us dies

But this land is ours and we'll see it wiped clean
Of the scourge that has sullied our hopes and our dreams

I smiled warmly at what I was seeing and hearing, the true faith was strong perhaps stronger than the ponies thought, soon we'll be ready.... ready for the final battle for Avalon yet as we walked I began to ponder why there was so many ponies in Awan? They should be in their territory not in ours… are they preparing in invade the kingdom? It would make sense the Gem Highway did made Awan one of the richest nations in present day Avalon not to mention it’s many port cities the Diamond Dogs’ wealth would attract the Alicorns and their followers yet why now? Then reaching into my pouch I pulled out the poorly drawn wanted poster of a human.

‘’Are you the reason why? Old one?’’ I asked the poster, I knew it couldn’t answer me I haven't lost that much of my mind but when you lived in land of magic you could never be sure of something. ’ Don’t worry Lord Alkeyore .. I will find you and take you home’’ I whispered before placing the poster back into the poach. Looking back at the campfire I noticed that Mari had left No-Wing’s side and was browsing some of the trader stalls specify Madam Rose Petal’s brazzer….

A mare’s clothing shop?

At seeing this out of characterized motion from the centaur mare I removed myself from the watch and soonly joined her but did not allowed her to notice my present, watching her as she looked upon the dresses. Madam Rose Petal, an rose pink Lamia watched us too yet made not any indentation pf my shadowing probably preferring to watch the coming show. From what I been told of the Lamia from the traders she was once the forced wife of a Changeling Slaver in Saddle Arabia and supposedly killed her very unwanted husband in order to be with the Changeling Queen Asy (also called Dragonfly by the ponies) from Clan Obusi, the green changelings, and helped freed all the Changelings he had caught. Yet unfortunately there was little to prove the claim outside the words of the merchant folk and she is a pony after all the ponies are the ones who actively and opening practicing slavery, I wanted to believe that the claim was true but again there was very little to prove it.

'' Mari'' at the sound of my voice being spoken so suddenly causes the centaur mare to flinch and gasp before pulling a knife on me which I caught with an readily open palm the move caused the mare to glare at me.

''Fracture! I'm putting a fucking bell on you! it's not wise to sneak up on a Centaur just that!!'' she says with a glare before pouting ''you almost made rip a dress I wanted to try!'' she gestured towards an orange dress that all so happens to be designed for Centaurs.

''You try it, you buy it!'' piped Rose Petal not bothering to look at us '' but if you're buying it to treat that there Minotaur of yours I might give you a discount.... Or it's free if you put on a good enough show!

Ignoring the Lamia and her wishes, I asked the centaur '' Why you want a dress Mari? you don't seem the type of mare for such things''

'' Oh it just like thing like, I dunno because I AM a girl perhaps? ''

''Fair enough I supposed....''

''Why of course it's fair you bullhead male!'' piped Rose Petal once again '' every gal no matter the breed wants to feel pretty every now and then if not then how can we call of ourselves girls hmm? Teats and ass only get you but so far in life! Believe me! I tried''

''You know Seeker this is the most I heard you speak since you saved us. You have a nice voice perhaps you should use it more'' said Mari ignoring the snake pony as well.

'' I am an Seeker, one of the bulls who continues the never ending mission to find the gods and bring them our people safely'' I said feeling rightful pride filling my wide chest. The Gods will put everything to right but if only we could free them of their unjust prisons.

'' True but what when that mission ends? what you will you do once the need of the seekers is o'er? settle down?'' asked Mari looking at me with an look I knew that would only led to trouble but...

I haven't ever thought of that.... '' I wish to remain in the employ of the gods this is my fate to stay at their side in all things even in death should they bid so'', '' what about you and No-wing? what will the two of you do after helping me in my destiny?''

She doesn't answers.

The Dead Fields of Dennathor

The former count of twelves now even fewer in number frown at what they were seeing an raising black sun and an setting red moon the most feared omen in all the lands the sign of endings according to the ancient text the black sun and red moon represented Tydorel the demon king himself and his promise to see the destruction of Gaea and the greatest of ironies his own death. Tydorel could not be killed only trapped for to kill him was to kill Gaea and to kill Gaea was to kill him. The gods are cruel indeed cursing the last remaining Gaeaish with a foe as such as this to ensure that Gaea livid was to also to him see him livid and in turn dammed them to a never ending war of attrition.. all for the sin of simply wanting to live (or wanting to die in Tydorel's case). They eyes scanned the surrounding dead fields the sound of drums ranged like a god ringing a hammer on a anvil, they did did not needed a spyglass to see the coming foe, the banners told them enough the orcs were there in a mighty horde with the honor guards of the Fairy Queen and the Speaker of the Dark magi. Not far from them lay another host but on whose side they did not know nor what lord the host severed. Behind the remnants of the count stood the gather might of Gaea ready to sever the lands they held dear. Yet they were only a fraction of Gaea's might the Ernian, Dwarven, Draaosian and Tahuain troop still had not joined them leaving worry on their leaders' faces Pao-lot; Tane Njor; Bahu; and Ironbeak only had their honor guard and each other for protection an very problematic situation given their histories. Though they did not say it aloud they knew that their forces should of had arrived a long time ago hammering that nagging feeling that something was wrong..... Rodin had vanished without a trace and without him the Beron support had faulted, the Beron armies saw it fit to return to their Empire to keep the peace until the fate of their king is known and an new ruler was crowned thus further weakening the host.

With the Berons gone it left the gathered host coexisting of Elite Elvish Ental Guards their blue armor mirroring the sky; Rhonirain stoned blades warriors who crafted their armaments from raw stone adding shades of grays to elvish blue; Dragons of every shape and color lurked in the skies their pearl white fangs sparkling in the light of the sun; Dryad Branch-wraiths with iron like thorns adoring their wooden shells they add greens and browns to the host; Dozens of Knightly orders and Magi Orders from all over the Twelve kingdoms who was loyal to their own kingdom and ruler added an large sum of colors to the host. And the odd mercenary company again adding a sum of colors.

As the three opposing armies approached each other the once calm weather starting to get more cold and dark clouds starting to gather returning to the ever stormy Gaeaish sky but it was different it was much colder and darker than normal, as if Gaea herself was feeling the tension and was reacting to this gathering of forces. It worried the rulers but they stood fast as it was expected of them, the wind picked up sending the banners and the rulers' capes flapping in a flurry and lightning arced across the sky but never striking it nor smiting those below. Deep in the rulers hearts they knew that it wasn't natural but it was magical. In a way magic is alive and it always came at an cost but what is that cost? it depends on the one who invoked it's might, no ones how magic came about in the world yet it was always there.

''Come.'' said Teigue seeing an number riders from each the orcish horde and the unknown army riding to meet with them, one that held a banner while the others were the host's leaders ''it's time that we see to the terms''

''And if the terms fail?'' asked Tane Njor drawing his great axe while deepening his frown he was dwarf thus being under the open if stormy skies he was on edge more so than his fellow rulers.

''Then we fight'' answered Luwin simply

With the thunder both of sky overhead and of the hooves of steeds Teigue the lord of light lead the rulers to the heart of the field and there waited for the foe and the strangers to meet with them. Of the Strangers only three an Shokr dressed in red, Drosi whose armor sparkled like emblems and a Satyr (Beastmen) with wooden armor meet with the Gaeaish rulers. Of the foes the orcish warchiefs Kongul and Togul both armored in black , Fairy Queen Isika dressed in orange that flows with the growing wind , Nar-Thosik the speaker of the dark magi whose had traded his magi robes for dead gray armor made of bones with the crest of an red raven upon his breast. The gathered leaders only looked at each other only put a moment before Teigue took charge of the meeting.

'' Terms! Terms is what I seek who here can treat with the voices of Gaea! The Storm is brewing and the arms of men shake thirsty for battle! who here can treat with I, Teigue Lord of Light last of the Lords of Magic and the Count of Twelve? shouts the white wizard.

'' I bring forth Terms! I am Lord Corm Evergreen of the Drosi! In my right hand is a spear of amber and in my left mighty shield of jade I speak for the Thdrai Alliance the future thirteenth Kingdom of Gaea!'' shout the Drosi thrusting his spear skywards

''I bring forth Terms! I am Kongul Choppa of Orciemia, father to Warchief Togul Choppa! In my right clawed hand is a axe of Elf bone and in my left the book of ruined flesh! I speak for the Alliance of Three! shouts the elderly Orc pointing his ax straight at the Tahuain Overlord Bahu '' I come to claim what is rightfully mine''

'' I bring forth Terms! I am Jun-Neben-Strumah Elder of the Dovahri of Adin! in my right claw is the wisdom of the Dovahri and in my left the torch of knowledge! I speak for Gaea! shouts the great dragon taking over Gaea's terms but the other rulers didn't question it for they knew that Dovahri wisdom was far more fit for the terms than theirs.

'' What are Gaea's terms?'' asked the white wizard.

''Thdrai Alliance abandon the field we have no qualms to you, if you seek to become the thirteenth kingdom then send your voice to the next meeting of the count of twelve until then begone! But as for The Alliance of Three, Queen Isika of the land of the fey you are hereby charged with high treason and breaking the ancient oaths you sworn to the Lords of Magic and Gaea. Togul and Nar-Thosik we know that you only holding to the promises of aid you swore too each other, I ask of you to stand down and return to your homes for our fury is for Isika alone refuse this then prepare for war.'' said the dragon dismissing the wood elf who refused to step aside but chose to listen to the whole of the terms.

'' War is already upon us Dragon!'' Snarled Kongul reaching into his saddlebag and pulled out Reymore's and an Tahuain's severed heads before tossing them at the count's hooves '' Bahu sent an assassin into my house to slay me and my wife in our sleep only for my adopted son Kern Carenard to die in our place, protecting his warchief according to our laws.. the same laws all of Gaea holds dear, Bahu's life must be taken in payment for this outrage and General Reymore had invaded my lands and wet our ground with orcish blood along to his way to the confederacy before we stopped him... so tell me dragon you ask us to stand down? For WHAT? to avoid a war? no the war came to us! Tis you lot who should stand down not I!'' then he points at Teigue ''that wizard, that so called lord of magic is a Dahirm-Hal!!! How else you could explain how he survived the battle instead the likes of Alkeyore, Morning Star and The Elder the most powerful and the most skilled magi in all of Gaea?!? or the other Masters? is not Teigue the weakest and the most meek of the master magi?'' if it was the fairies who attacked then Gwion The Elder would still be Alive and so would Alkeyore Blood-raven!

The Gaeaish rulers looked at the now accused Dahirm-Hal with narrowed eyes in words of the the old orc ringing with their minds. They did forgot the fact that Teigue was the weakest of master magi, the others could easily defeat him yet he supposedly alone survived the attack where his betters were all slain how peculiar.... yet the rulers withheld their judgement in case if was an attempt to break their unity in the matter. But even still the seeds of doubt were planted as they watched the wizard closely '' Dahirm-Hal... that's a bold charge Kongul, what proof you have to prove your word'' said the dragon elder with a shake of his head.

'' The word of Isika herself who had fought Dahirm-Hal like both her father and brother before her, she can tell who is and who's not of the demons by an glance unlike the rest of us who faced very few ourselves only one other than her that could tell who is an Dahirm-Hal was an lord of magic, '' said Kongul '' but of what my and my family's right to Bahu's head? You can not denied me of my right, the law demands. The Law Demands! the law demands that he dies on this day!''

'' I'm afraid Kongul that in the given circumstances we can not take Isika at her word for mere words is not proof enough despite the questions it brings up, the last of my blood died supposedly in a battle against her fairies and as you say the law demands that I too see payment in blood. But both of our disputes must stand aside until this business is done, yes I do see the head of the man who attempted to kill you and your family yet even with him you have no proof that Bahu order the deed to be done since the dead can't speak. I'll ask you again stand down.'' said Jun-Neben-Strumah, the gathered leaders could see in the great worm's eyes the rage and bloodlust his great wisdom was struggling to hold back. It was a miracle that the dragon was able to hold his emotions back from clouding his judgement a feat that many of the other leaders was surely fail at.

'' Proof?'' asked the Drosi lord '' you ask for proof? but isn't the head of a Tahuain assassin proof enough? I thought at the Tahuians answered to Bahu alone?

The dragon Elder went to answer the wood elf but another demanded to make themselves known ''Silence Drosi winch you had been ready dismissed from this meeting! go home or this will taken as an act of war'' shouted Luwin drawing his sword before shouting in a form of elfish one only known to the elfs whatever he said caused Crom's arm to burst with magical power.

'' Aylieite bastard'' shouts Crom with his spear at the ready and hated in his eyes '' Slaver! False Lord!! Krakri gor lro (Demon Lover)!! you may led the elfish people but the Drosi will never bend the knee to the likes of you!''

''Peace!! Peace!! I will have peace!'' Yells Teigue taking over the terms for the moment '' Luwin! Crom! be at peace or the both of you be banned from further terms! Please Jun-Neben-Strumah, Kongul, Crom finished the terms before any chance of warring is done''

''Thank you Lord Teigue,'' said the dragon slowly '' Corm you do raise a good point but as I said Kongul's dispute must be put aside until the council can meet in full to investigate the claim. please remove yourself from the-

''Kongul of Orciemia I support you and your cause in this fight for I refuse to accept that the lords of magic was destroyed by the fairies Lord Alkeyore who I knew well for he was the one who forged the jade crown of Thdrai, he was too powerful to be defeated by the likes of the fey and the count has no authority to denied you of your blood right, does The Alliance of Three recognized the Thdrai Alliance as the thirteenth kingdom and promises to aid us when the time comes? asked the wood elf interrupting the elderly dragon

'' Yes and a thousand times yes, we welcome with you open claws Lord Crom of Thdrai'' said Kongul '' once we save Gaea we will help you build your nations into it's rightful place as the thirteenth kingdom of Gaea.''

At that moment a arrow struck Bahu in his heart the Tahuain Overlord could only open his mouth to utter the word Dau (Traitor) before falling from his mount dead. The gather leaders could only stare at the dead Tahuain none of them expecting the sudden attack but with his death the terms had failed, reason had died on this day. But before they could figure out from who the arrow came, Teigue roared whilst allowing his body to be drenched with magical power.

''The Terms had failed!'' shouts the Lord of Magic his voice amplified by his magic ensure all those gathered in the field heard him '' They had not only failed but the Traitors spat on the Gaeaish ways! They dare kill when the terms are being held!! Dishonor! The ancient magics of the land are enrage and the blood must be repaid. Peace is dead and warring time is at hand!! All those who are true Gaeamen wet thy blades with the blood of the Traitors and Oathbreakers! So say I Teigue Shinedown the Last of Lords of Magic!!''

The gathering of leaders broke apart each of them racing to the safety of their own lines watching for more hidden arrows, unfortunately another of the kings felled dead to the ground the Ernian Priest king Pao-Lot his massively fat and blobbed body hit the unforgiving and uncaring stoned ground lying where he felled none bothering to retrieve his body much like Bahu. Once the surviving leaders reached their lines, The Thdrai and the Alliance quickly reformed themselves their hosts mixing as per the pact, Crom and his company joined Kongul's strengthening the newly make bonds. On the other side the might of Gaea let loose their battle cries and curses, roaring for the blood of traitors and oathbreakers before letting loose of their arrows and artillery both magical and practical only to find that their shoots felled short while those that did reach were stopped mid-air by the means by magic. With an shout from the allied leaders, the Drosi shoot their arrows and smiled gleefully as the they flew fast and true, biting into the flesh of the Aylieite elves and many others.

Thus the war begun

Jun-Neben-Strumah roared only once and all the dragons in the sky relied in kind, the rain causing their scales to gleam with a flap of wing the dragons charge at the united lines. For moment the allies faulted at the sight of the many worms but their resolved stayed their feet the giants began their own attack throwing trees like they were javelins and giants boulders knocking down hundreds of dragons stunning them before falling on the down worms like waves upon the mountains ripping unfortunate worms apart with raw strength while others were clubbed to death. But not all of the Dovahri fell victim to the giants some stank claws, fangs into the giants and set them on fire with magical fire, at seeing the great beasts' brutal brawl the smaller races charged to aid their shock troops with the leaders leading some for the front while other in the back. Goblins shirked as they were tramped but that didn't really matter there were many goblins to replace those tramped to death yet again not much was expected of the little cowards, at most they could bleed the enemy before running away. The Drosi and the Aylieite elves enter an deadly but beautifully brutal duels full of their ancient blood feud jade spears piercing blue armor while crescent like swords slashed flesh, The two brother races glared at the other their hate burning hotter with each kill. Orcs fought wildly as befitting their race killing everything that wasn't on their side protecting the Warchief and the Orc royalty but stayed away far enough to allow the royals kills of their own, taking rightful revenge for Kren and Alkeyore. The Orc Princess Gwendolen fought like a true orc (despite her very unorcish behavior of the past and her very limited skills with an weapon) bellowing war cries as her sister Vryn disembowels an unlucky knight.

Another of the kings felled, the dwarven high king Tane Njor his ionic massive ax lay discard on the ground far his body, he was picked up by an Shokr before being dropped from leagues in the sky his metallic body shattering from the impact sending shards of metal tearing into those round him specially the allies who were slowing gaining ground. Dryad Branch-wraiths with their iron hard thorns bite deeply into the equally primal Satyrs and Lizardmen before Rohnirain stoned blades warriors batter the bestial creatures away with their namesake weapon huge stoned swords sending the very broken bodies back into the allies allowing for the bodies to slow down their advance.

The kings' magi orders and the odd mercenary company did what they could to turn the battle to their kingdoms' favor, in this the Shokr and the Satyrs leaders that company Crom were slain but unlike the other fallen leaders their bodies were quickly recovered before any revengeful mutilation could be done. The Ogres and Trolls feasted on the dead from both sides, bones snapping in their great maws the fear of being eaten destroyed the moral of the weaker willed of foes.

Yet not even the stormy sky was safe from the warring dragons; Pegasi baring Drosi archers; Augga and Shokr ( and some giants that also happen to be tall enough) filled it with one of their own. If they wouldn't dodging lighting both natural and magical they were either dodging each other or swarming the dragons hoping to ground the great beast while hoping that they didn't end up underneath the worms when they were falling out of the sky.

Isika and Nar-Thosik took the leadership of the allies few magi and casted thousands of spells into the kings' forces maiming many of the weaker foes, their eyes and magical senses sought out Teigue yet failed to locate the white wizard no matter what spell the used they couldn't find the accused Dahirm-hal. And their had precious little time to hunt for him they had to focus on the battle and choose the right time to unleash their magical might. As the fighting thicken and grew even more brutal, the two forces failed to notice the sifting of the earth until it was too late.

With might quake the earth in the heart of the fighting opened up swallowing thousands of warriors including the Darrosian Ironbreak and the elf lord Luwin, their death screams pierced the air causing those were still fighting to pause in surprise. The remaining leaders looked at their other questioningly visibly wondering if the hole was the work of the other then drums sounded in the deep and the darkness of the deep turn blood red. All those gathered eyes widen with fear at this for it was one sight that had haunted them in their darkest of nightmares and the Gaeaish leaders cried with even greater panic for the remaining mights to reform. With the speed of gods the hosts did as they were bided, the time of warring with each other long pasted from their mind (...at least for the moment). Now the former foes will have to stand together to survive.

''FOR THE TRUE-FATHER!!'' an thousands voices cried from the depths and sounds of thousands of hooves sounded echoing the thunder over head, Orc pikemen hastily rushed from the host to form a pike wall while the elves re-sheath their blades in favor of the power of their bows, The Rohnirain stoned blade warriors quickly add their strength to the pike wall and the other races ran to guard the flanks of the wall of Orcish pikes to ensure that the pikemen couldn't be out flank. The remaining flyers retook to the sky and the magi took the center of the force knowingly that magic was the one thing that could verily well saved the day for the Gaeaish as it once did so long ago. And the knight rode to the rear to be at the ready when the leaders tell them when the time was right to ride down enemies or to out flank the real enemy.

The greatest fear of all Gaeaish both alive and dead had came to past, the Demons had returned to the twelve kingdoms.

Slowly from out of the darkness the one true enemy of all Gaeaish walked in taunting, hideous monstrosities at the sight the Gaeaish hiss in pure unadulterated rage, the more primal of the Gaeaish formed at the mouth and the remaining leaders seethed in outrage at the sight of the one who was leading their long time hated and feared enemy Teigue Shinedown or rather what once was the lord of light, his face as horribly mutated with demonic energy while his one bright priest robes was now ragged and thorn something you could find a corpse in.

Jun-Neben-Strumah shared an silent look with fairy queen as if asking forgiveness in his blindness to see that Teigue was indeed an Dahirm-hal and that the old hatreds clouded the count's sight, so did the other surviving rulers silently asking for forgiveness from Kongul; Nar'thosik; and Togul but with an understanding shake of Isika's and her ever loyal friends' head the slight was forgiven and the remnants of count of twelve reunited.

'' Teigue Shinedown!!!'' roars the Dragon Elder magical fires licking at the worms' jaws he roars once again but this time his voice is joined by all the Gaeaish leaders '' YOU HAD FALLEN!!! WE ARE THE COUNT OF TWELVE, THE HEART AND SOUL OF ALL FREE GAEAISH! PEACE IS DEAD AND WARRING TIME AT HAND! IN THE NAME OF THE SIX AND BY THE SOULS OF DEAD AND THE LOST!! WE SENTENCE YOU TO DEATH!!! WITH THE SACRED FLAME AND THE BLOOD OF KINGS WE SHALL ERASE YOU!!!''

The white wizard says nothing, he looks to the sky and watches as the the storm o'er head grew in it's fury and the earth at his feet shook as if Gaeaish herself was ripping into herself with rage and then he simply thrusts his hand at the now united Gaeaish host and the demons charged. In an great tide of wickedness and debauchery the demons charged the valiant and gallant Gaeaish line. Swallowing the Gaeaish up with their sear numbers and in essence swallowed up hope...the demons felled upon the Gaeaish as the Gaeaish met them with blades drawn.

Author's Notes:

Finally Arc One is done... about time.

This one was a little difficult to write since I still cant get in touch with Dontaskaboutit the owner of Dust, Pandora and Chaos so I tried keeping them close to how he would write them.... anyways with our anniversary coming up soon I decide to do something a little different this time around.. Character Theories, yes that's right! I want you guys to send in your theories about the characters in this story and Me and Portal82 will answer them so pm me or Portal82 your character theories and we might make an joint video of us answering them you have until Dec. First to send in your theories or questions you have for us.

P.s. the songs used in the chapter can be found here. I couldn't but help to use them...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rt4CQc1MSso

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzHXt6n1QhM