Meanwhile in deep in the Grand Draconic Empire's Long-Fang mountains…

Sealed in his prison made of pure magical ice, maintaining him there freezing him and his power; preventing him to do any kind of action with ease. The scrawny starved prisoner possessed a snow-white mane, the pale blue furred form once known as the Alicorn Venhayia awakes from his long but very long slumber. Tired echoes filled the space, the responsible attempted to stand supporting all his weight on his hooves yet he found himself unable to move. However he didn’t desist from keep trying until his head was cleared from the sleepiness and realizes the truth about his situation.

''I have forgotten about you…'' He was currently chained to the solid ice.

Sorrow was his only companion that couldn’t feel the void which the loneliness and isolation had created to torment him, weak sounds could be heard yet no one would ever hear them but the prisoner alone. There is no use, freedom is nothing but a wild illusion…” He looked around; at least his head could move partially freely. “Our subjects might have already forgotten about my dear daughter…'' Despite all the amount of years he had been trapped there practically only reducing him to sleep, he was exhausted.

However his ears perked up at a familiar sensation, it was the warm sensation which the winter gives to him. His lips contorted into a small smile knowing that it was time to check the outside world, he still was able to do so but the winter gives him strength to hide his magical signal so the monster of Sleipnir wouldn’t be able to detect him. Normal living being, no matter which race they were, shed tears. And gods could also shed tears; those tears were called by different names by the inhabitants of Avalon. However for Venhayia his tears were snowdrops rather than drops. “She…is free...'' Happiness, joy, bliss, and any other positive emotion filled him giving him strength to stand again on his hooves.

''Sleipnir!'' The resulting echo lasted longer. ''You will face the wrath of justice and mine!'' his rage fueling his long starved body melted the chains but the the ice around him, it didn’t matter to him that he will be chained again; he wasn’t going to give up without a fight, freedom was an illusion which will never become true no matter the situation. Without hesitation he charged against the sealed entrance of his prison, again and again he repeated the same action slowly turning himself into a mess of frozen blood and fur, sadly the magical mechanism of defense was triggered, new chains appeared from the ground and walls, the alicorn immediately took his defensive stance caring little about his unhealthy condition so the fight could be prolonged. Dodges and counter attacks was the only thing he could do, after minutes of futile opposition one of the chain got one of his hooves, the moment he noticed it, it was already too late to react. The chain with immense force began to drag him away like nothing; his body was smashed to the ground several times while other chains joined in the encasing. He was pinned to the ground and this time he couldn’t even move his head since more chains were around his neck, holding him tight.

Cries of frustration and impotence echoed inside the ice prison.

He kept struggling or at least doing that poorly resembled to actual struggle, as the time passed his boost of power did; then he returned to his pitiful state which he had been before. Breaths was the only action he could do, breaths which he used to dispel the rage and anger which had been forming inside him as he had tried to escape and failed. However his actions had to come to an unexpected halt when more chain appeared but this time they were smaller. He couldn’t do anything to stop them so as much as he hated it he let it happen, he groaned in pain when they pierced the skin of his eyelids and forced them open. He desperately tried to move away but the more he attempted to give resistance the more those cursed chains damaged him.

If he would have continued they probably would have ripped his eyelids apart.

''Daddy!'' a small voice called out from nowhere.

Venhayia's eyes widened at recognizing that voice, that beautiful voice which she misses so much.

''Luna!'' he calls back hoping that she would hear him and come to him, but hopes died when he recalled the sickness of this.

All was a mere illusion.

A cursed illusion made especially for him to torture him to no end.

Yet seeing the illusion of his beloved daughter was enough to bring him a smile and comfort to his loneliness.

Sleipnir perfectly knew the love that he held for Luna, and this illusion was done to remember him what he will never be able to touch and see again until the end of times. At first Venhayia hated it but as the time kept going he opted that it was better if he tried to find a good side in that.

“Where art thou daddy?” Fake Luna cried.

''I’m here.'' Venhayia replied perfectly knowing that she would never hear him no matter what.

''Daddy where are you? I need you daddy.''

''Sweetie I'm here, don't you see me?'' Of course she can’t see him, she is an illusion after all.

''I'm here Luna.'' another voice was suddenly inserted to the scene, the owner had a golden coat of fur color that the trapped alicorn immediately recognized at mere sight.

‘What is happening?’ Venhayia was at loss, he couldn’t place the part of the puzzle, the illusion was mostly to see his daughter crying form calling for him to help her but this time…this time was different.

Luna’s form immediately shakes in fear ''L-Lord Sleipnir, b-b-but y-you n-not my-y D-d-addy… Ven-h-hay-ia is…'' The fear that she felt induced her to stutter.

Sleipnir sneered and stroked Luna tiny form with his right hoof sending her flying against the nearest wall. ''Listen you little whore, I am your father not that lower life form of a Changeling and poor lover excuse of an Alicorn.” He said as he walked to the foal position where he didn’t hesitate to stomp her young wings causing her to scream in pain, and crying for Venhayia.

He finally understood.

And he didn’t want to accept the situation.

What was happening was the worst mental torture a father could ever receive, torture his daughter and don’t be able to do something.

‘STOP!’ He mentally screamed as tears refreshed his dried eyes.

''Silence whore! I am your father not Venhayia.” he kept applying pressure turning cries into heartbreaking sobs, sobs that reached Venhayia’s heart. ''Do you want me to stop?” Sleipnir says smugly.

‘Please stop it, anything but this!’

''Yes Lor-gah-d Slei-sob-pnir'' babbled the alicorn foal.

Sleipnir’s face received a wicked smile and removed his weight from the afflicted wing only give a direct hit on the foals face, causing her nose to bleed. ''Call me Daddy whore!'' Mercilessly he began to beat her as the bastard grinned the whole time.

‘Get away from her you monster!’

''D-daddy..'' Then she kept sobbing, however she flinch when Sleipnir gently patted her head.

''That's good girl now I want to you to turn round and spread those leg-

Venhayia couldn’t take it anymore; the boost of strength once again appeared however the amount of chains that kept him down did their job very well. Resistance was futile.

All the hate, rage and despair fell upon him causing him to scream.

He screamed as he saw the atrocity of developed right at front of him.

He didn’t care anymore about the damage that his eyes were going to receive; he tried to close his eyes.

Another attempt.

And another.

And another…

Back in Canterlot

It was a very long conversation and exchange of pleasantries. But at the end I learned their names.The rainbow Pegasus was Rainbow Dash, quite fitting name.The other one who couldn’t introduce herself since she fainted on the spot was Fluttershy, again, quite fitting name.
The normal ponies came next, the pink one has the shadows keeping a good eye on her since her nature and abilities astonished me and also worried me. Her name was Pinkie Pie. The orange with an odd designed hat introduced herself as Applejack. Finally was the white unicorn who dared to insult me, I knew her name but a formal introduction was in order, but with the difference that she had problems with doing so. With Twilight Sparkle included they were the Elements of Harmony one of the most powerful artifacts in Equestria, Loyalty, Kindness, Laughter, Honesty Generosity and Magic. If I could only be able to get near them and get a closer look I could tell the amount of power that they actually have as whole and qualify them as a threat or not.

''Good, I believe is my turn as well.'' To show some respect and give a good image I stood up from my seat and slightly bowed "I go by many names which were given with the course of years, I am Alkeyore Blood-raven, Hexing beast, the Shadow Devil to the Tahuians , The Lord of the realm hidden in shadows, Last of the Lords of Magic.'' If would have told all of my titles the conversation would have prolonged a considerable amount of time, so I only mentioned the ones which I’m prouder.

''The Shadow devil?'' Luna questions reached my ears. ‘‘Such title is odd to hear and also the hexing beast.''

I couldn’t resist the urge to show a dark grin since those titles were won rather than achieved. ''Thus are the titles given by the ones who fear my presence.”

''I believe that those titles were given to you to serve as a warning to others.'' Celestia spoke the truth as she wisely hides the coldness behind the warm look which she was currently wearing. ''However you must have done something… ‘special’ to earn the names of The Shadow devil and Hexing beast, right?''

''It might be a possibility princess however you were right about my titles serve as warnings.'' I replied “Is a different story about the ‘How’ I earned them.”

''Oh! Can we hear the story, please?'' Pinkie came into the conversation with a wide smile surprisingly bouncing on her seat without falling from there.

There were advantages and disadvantages but the advantages surpassed the other side, spreading fear is always advantageous for a magic user like me and they will reconsider again about thinking to get hostile but at the same time the thin line of trust could be broken, but I am still wary about the veracity about the alicorns and the…chimera. ''I don't see why not.'' I said

After all if one is to find allies one must know how to play the game.

''Yay!'' Pinkie fell to the floor aftermath, or would have if it wasn’t for her friend who caught her on time. Said friend was Twilight who then materialized a small…kind of book with a quill; getting me to raise an eyebrow as response.

''Um..... You…you don't mind if I record your story Lord Blood-raven, right?'' she asked sweating profoundly as if she insulted me; in other words she was still afraid of me.

''Not at all Princess Twilight, take as many your heart wish'' I assured with a somewhat friendly tone so it could calm her nerves, ''And now that we have met each other properly, please call me Alkeyore, Lord Blood-Raven doesn’t… doesn’t sound very friendly.'' Finding an excuse wasn’t as hard as I believed.

''and civilized.. '' Rarity whispered in a very low tone that she could only her, however she completely omitted the part that shadows can help me to gather information, the only ones whose shadows areen’t manipulated are the Alicorns and the draco…draqu…chimera. Despite I still don’t believe that they are gods, they are powerful magic users since they have immunity to this spell.

''If that is the case, then you can call me Twilight.'' She replied, but her response wasn’t what I wanted, when I said that to her I was referring to everybody gathered around the table not just her.

''Sure Twilight.'' I said hiding my displeasure. ''Now I will begin with the story of how I received the name of Hexing Beast..” Almost immediately Twilight placed the tip of the quill on the scroll as the rest leaned a bit closer to hear me better. “I was a mere student of Val-nore an elderly wizard, veteran of the last Rohnirian-Draaosian war, we had just entered the town of Hagvons a small place near to our homeland, the reason was that we were looking for a rare plant called Lover's bane because it was needed for a antidote for a… potion which went wrong. It took us a while but at the end we found the needed plant in hands of the local Lord Bolsme… or was it Balduine?...” The honest truth was that I completely forgot about him and trying to remember him now not only was difficult but unnecessary. “...doesn't matter now, anyways; my master tried to negotiate with the lord, despite the offer were reasonable he had other plans for the specimen, resulting into a strong discussion which ended with yells over the plant which over time the fight escalated to an armed conflict when the lord pulled out a dagger and stabbed my master and ran away with the plant. I gave chase after I was sure that Val-nore began to heal himself. Using some support spells I managed to catch him and drag him to an isolate place. I was young, and being young mostly leads you to act despite you are influenced by your own emotions, the punishment I gave to him was a hex spell turning him in a rat of the size of a dog, every step he took a cat came to the scene.'' I ended the story with a satisfied laugh unfortunately the sentiment was not shared except for Discord who was trying to hold back his enjoyment of my tale.

Celestia had a look which clearly said her amusement was no-existent. ''The way you described it sounded like a terrible spell, I hope that your teacher Val-nore returned this Lord back to normal and gave you a lesson about what is right and not for even casting such spell, however I never heard of any of the places which you have mentioned Lord Alkeyore.''

''Expected as much, your race was never seen in my homeland before so you knowing about mine would be an understatement, however I question where I am? '' I asked after finishing my spoken thoughts. ''Another thing princess, Val-nore loved what I did; he was to one who gave me that title.'' I added earning a slight frown from her.

''You are currently in Canterlot the capital of Equestria, continent of Avalon'' Discord came into the conversation answering clearing my doubts about my whereabouts.

''Many thanks.”

''Now moving to another topic, I am from the kingdom of Rohnir, the continent of Gaea, the Duchy of Draaos is Rohnir's northern neighbor. Now I fully understand why neither of us knows about each other homelands… this is the very first meeting between Avalonians and Gaeaish.” My statement caused some commotion between them. I keep the other reasoning to myself

''Wait!” The smaller alicorn exclaimed. “Its impossible that you are across the sea because the Windigos destroyed all the lands except this continent.''

Before she could continue with her arguments supporting her position, the white princess intervened. ''It's quite possible Twilight, the world is still unexplored, we haven’t passed the safe borders of the sea yet. The Windigos are a native creature of this continent and this is their natural habitat, going beyond would be going against their nature.''

Twilight processed the new information acquired, however she wanted to defend her position further but her friend Applejack prevent her. ''Twi I don’t think that shouting or arguing against an old gods is a good idea…” Thanks to the shadows I clearly heard her, but I secretly thanked her because I understood the situation at hand; they believe I'm an old god. But there shouldn’t exist much surprise judging by their constant attitude towards me. With new information I began the awaited confrontation.

“Applejack, Can you repeat what you just said to your friend?''

Silence followed, the faces that they gave me expressed their discomfort and surprise fell while the farmer looked sideways showing how nervous she was. “I’m sorry partner but I don’t think I can'' She is the Element of Honesty, she technically isn’t lying.

“Well, you should tell me because I heard you and I want the confirmation now.” My tone of voice increased expressing my displeasure towards her defiant attitude.

Stating that I heard her took the small crowd aback, and my tone also stated that I was no up for games.

I crossed my arms together. “I am waiting.”

“Alke, I don’t…”

I didn’t allow her to finish the sentence.

“Don’t, YOU DARE to use a derogative on me!” I slammed both hands on the table causing everybody present to flinch back.

''N-nnnn-o disrespect Lord Alkeyore it's just t-t—that…”

“I WANT THE ANSWER NOW!”

I slammed my fist on the table again but this time I created a hole where my hand could pass easily in a future.

My outburst was premeditated, the first reaction would be fear and if they would have gotten hostile then I would have used their fear as a magical boost and escape or fight, both options were at my reach. But since they didn’t got hostile then it was better to keep gathering knowledge.

''WELL?!'' I said my voice sounding my rage.

''Relaaaaax…” Discord suddenly intervened, snapping his lion paw the next thing I saw was that Applejack wasn’t in her place anymore. ''Don’t be so mean with one of my friends, the little problem thingy here is that humans, just like you, are the old gods of Avalon who ruled these lands long before the Alicorn’s Era…And also mine!” His cheery tone was pretended. Just like the white princess he was wary of my actions.

“Another thingy is that you legacy is known to be the dark gods of Avalon; but that was the result of the not so little war which was lead by Sleipnir and came out victorious; and as you know what that little bird always tells us, the history is wrote by the victors.''

With only that the one who is feared by his enemies and respected, was rendered speechless. ‘Their attitude towards me is understood better now…’

“But I think our dearest friend over here…” He snapped his fingers and the earth pony appeared again but less scared than before. “Deserves an apology.”

‘My pride has been stained.’

Time later I had already absorbed the new knowledge calmed my emotions and stained my pride. The meeting proved..... To be fruitful if you somehow take the useless as useful, learning about their tastes or way of life is a waste of time; personal business is called PERSONAL for a reason, but I cannot ramble about petty things all the time.

Aftermath the majority of the group slowly began to head to their bedchambers for the rest of the night but promising to speak the next morning, leaving me all alone with the alicorns and the chimera.

''Now with the weak ones away, the pleasantries are over.'' I firmly stated my position.

''Why start with all the hostility, Alke?” Discord is the reason that my hands clenched into a fist. “Don’t you see that we are all love and friendship?”

''My name is Alkeyore!'' I spat ''I SAID IT CLEARLY!'' It was so difficult to do not destroy some random object out of rage and forgetting everything about my teachings.

''Both of you cease!'' Celestia raised her voice ''we just had the floor repaired.''

''Relax Lord Alkeyore, you're among your kind.'' claimed the night alicorn.

“And that IS?” My emotions had not been controlled yet, a cleanse spell will be needed if this attitude continues.

“We are gods, Alkeyore.”

“And how do I know that any of you are not lying?” I finally shot the question that had been annoying me to no end. “Anybody with power can claim to be a god after all.”

The alicorns exchanged looks and approved my indirect request.

They started with deep breaths as the closed their eyes. I saw how magic gathered around them powerful sources of magic each one different from the other. Finally the raw magic engulfed them as whole, each one were orb of lights of different color but recognizable.

‘The Astral plane…’

It is said that every living being has an astral form but they will never achieve to reach that plane unless there is divine intervention.

But divine entities…or also called gods…

They weren’t lying…

I might be a powerful wizard and probably I can fight them offbut with so many around winning chances are slim to none. Especially now in my currant weaken state of being.

Ignorance was a bliss it seems.

As I keep watching the astral transformation I finally saw their new forms.

They still maintained they original silhouette but that’s all, it was like seeing mist concentrate in a sole place creating a body, instead of eyes there were only two glowing orbs.

“Now do you believe us?” I couldn’t tell apart who the one who spoke was; the voice was totally new to me. “Your mistrust is understandable, sometimes one need to see to believe.”

I crossed my arms and looked anywhere but them. ''Very well, now explain why everybody pretended to be…nice towards me, I felt their fear.”

However no answer came, instead a blinding light assaulted my eyes, my hands protected my vision as the shadows formed around me ready to start the defensive stance but that was unnecessary since when the light died down all of them were in their mortal forms.

Celestia cleared her throat and spoke. ''Pretend probably, however is the right thing to treat others nice and show kindness. However I will not question further about what you said about feeling their fear, but fearing a-“

''A human, who were the ancient gods of these lands; your friends were afraid of what would happen if they angered me, correct?'' I finished for her earning nods of confirmation. ''So tell me, what happen next?”

''I'll be frank with you Lord Alkeyore, your mere presence will bring a series of problems, both politically and culturally once a word of your existence leave this place; many will fear your very name, other shall seek you in hopes of your favor or your destruction, fanatics will worship the very ground you walk upon. But know this Alkeyore, not everything in Avalon is what is seems.'' This very day was the day when Discord acted serious most of the time; jokes or pranks were at its minimal.

“That a good assumption, and judging how normal beings acted then it highly probable that your assumption will come true, however I wonder about my future.'' I said with mild curiosity in my voice.

''What do you mean Lord Alkeyore?'' asked Celestia forgetting what I said a time ago about the title; but is also possible that she misunderstood it just like Twilight.

''Celestia, where am I supposed to reside?” I started with the typical question of a foreigner in a new land. “I have no home to call my own, nor currency that your … citizens would accept.'' Unless I sell the few golden coins I have by its weight.

''Fear not Alkeyore, you can remain here at the castle, besides this might be a fruitful cultural exchange speaking since we have to teach a lot about Avalon while you can teach us about Gaea'' The dark princess offered.

''You offer sounds fine Luna '' I accepted despite something is telling me that they are not doing this out of their hearts.

''If that is the case then a room will be ready for you shortly.'' Celestia said as she gave a single…clap with her hooves.

''You have my sincere thanks provide me with a roof and warm, but what will happen with this…business?'' I asked Truthfully I didn’t know that I’m seen as a god just for being human, and I’m sure that I’m not a god, the situation which I’m in is fragile.

''Anything could happen Lord Alkeyore but you remember that you can count with us to guide you if you in the ways of godhood if that is your wish'' The night sister again offered.

''Aye I have a feeling that I'll take you up on that offer'' I said still unsure since I don't trust either of them.

''Great!” The chimera clapped his appendages together. “But since is a bit late we should continue tomorrow.''

''True, I should have started night court some time ago.'' Luna was the first to rise from her seat and take her leave. ''Should I expect your presence the following morning?''

“That would be your decision princess.'' I gave a small smile before she left with a nod. Her element might not be darkness as whole but is similar; and that sole fact intrigues me to learn more.

''Lord Alkeyore, I believe it's time to retire for the rest of the night, I'm sure that you have many worries currently in your mind.'' Celestia spoke nearing to my position with no ill intentions.

''You would be correct in that Celestia, perhaps some rest would do wonders on me” I replied

''Then come with me, I'll lead you to your room where you will take reside temporally.'' Celestia turned away and began her walking.

''’Till next Time Alkeyore!” Discord exclaimed as he snapped his fingers, a small cloud followed; when the cloud dissipated the chimera was already gone.

Celestia didn’t walk much when an idea struck her head. “Thinking it better, do you wish to walk or teleport? Either option will be fine.''

“I prefer the spell if you don’t mind, I'm quite tired after all'' I said rising from my seat. Allowing her to use magic on me was quite risky but I got a benefit from it, I was able to understand better her type of magic.

The spell didn’t take much time, soon both of us were engulfed in the light.

Outside the Guest’s chambers…

We appeared in front of a wide and quite expensive door, which I assumed was the entrance to my chambers.

''Here we are Lord Alkeyore, I'll send my guards to wake you for breakfast.'' Celestia was calm, but the neutrality still remained; thought said neutrality had tendency to become a bit hostile.

I searched the doorknob and without a second thought I made my way inside the room. Once inside I gave a quick preliminary look before turning to give her my…gratitude. ''I see no problem, you have my gratitude Princess Celestia'' She gave me another smile and a nod, but before she could give the first step I gave my blessings. ''May the darkness be with you on this great night.''

''Wha-'' Without hesitation I closed the door cutting her off, I heard a groan of frustration and then silence.

With a sigh I began to fortify my room with many defensive spells, so nothing could disturb me or enters this room unless I allow it. The last spell which I used created a small guardian to alert me and give me time to prepare in case that something manages to break through my defenses. Aftermath and gave another look around, but this time I analyzed the room with critical eye and there was something for sure.

''What an sick waste of gold, I think I just heard the cries of dwarfs.''

If these…ponies use the gold for these purposes with so much ease then I can speculate that gold is not that valuable. There were many reasons to complain and ramble about, but that was a waste of time, time I knew how to invest. I also notice the small window on the far wall show a very good view of an sleeping Canterlot under the most beautiful darkness I ever seen.

''That's the only upside of this garish room I wouldn't be surprise if they put gems on the crapper too'' I said aloud to myself hoping onto the bed I scowled, ''Soft.....too soft…”

An small ripple throught the very existence was open, it could be compared to a black hole in a way but it would be wrong. What I just opened was a space pocket, where I save small trinkets or artifacts that can only be seen by me and me alone. In case of my demise (Improbable) the items stored there will be lost in the endless void.

''Hmm... several flasks of Torthish mead.... an couple of potions... an few spell scrolls t.. A quite interesting amount of familiar statutes......A weapon against fairies…and more things. '' I just pointed the ones which are more important, after all the void is endless, judging by the way of how things developed a small drink was in order, and for the current moment the Torthish mead could do fine.

Feeling the touch of a strong beverage on my throat made me think about my situation once again, “what in the seven hells shall I do now?''

A question with an easy answer.

I searched between my clothes the dammed object responsible of all my sorrows and dread.

The Key.

The key which I protected to the very end and paid the price for it.

“I should be dead…yet I appeared in the other side of the world.'' I poured more contents of the flask inside my mouth. ''.. maybe… this is a blessing, without this infernal key Gaea is protected from Teigue's plans, he would need to start expeditions beyond the borders.'' I chucked merrily ''Teigue, you sold yourself to the demons for naught!”

However, I still can't warp my head around the whole ordeals especially the time which I spent with that female fairy, who technically claimed to have knownledge about me…and somehow deep inside my mind something was trying to connect the events and bring an answer about her. And her words about the fute also raised even more questions.

Sleep.

A rest would help me to clear my mind since I felt tired and I kept yawning. ''Perhaps the answers I seek lie within the realms of dreams.''

Inside Celestia’s chambers

Celestia was lying on her nice queen size bed alongside the mismatch form of Discord. Such scene was not even imagined in the wildest of dreams, even more for the fact of the events which happened a time ago, however it was happening.

''Discord, it had been over 2000 years since a human walked these land; and that thought alone frightens me greatly.” Her attitude was a lot different from the meeting, Celestia used an mask and that moment was not esception.

Discord noticing what troubled her, inmediatly grabbed one of her hoof which gently grabbed, a sign which expressed his concern for her. “Whatever will happen, we will face it together.'' Of course that kind of answer is completely unheard of, since it came from the mouth of a chaotic being.

The white alicorn locked gazes with him and him alone, the rest of world turned silent, their breaths were only heard. The slowly drew closer until both lips connected each other give reassuring the bond between them.

Those small pleasures of life always but always will bring you a smile, sadly Celestia needed to speak again. ''Do you have any ideas on what to do with… Alkeyore?''

The draconequus warps his limbs around the white Alicorn with a sigh ''Besides keeping your father out of this…I’m out of ideas… but I know that Avalon shall face many dangers in the future.''

Celestia was wise; she was able to detect the indirect statement and leaned closer to her companion. “You're leaving me alone again aren't you?” It didn’t matter that it was for a short time, the feeling of being alone hurts, but she has her beloved sister and Twilight with her friends but that kind of love is different; very different from each other.

With his paws he carefully wiped her tears. ''sh sh sh sh please Celestia, you know that we must contact your mother, we'll need allies if the worse comes to pass.''

Discord… he changed, for the best.

Celestia press her face into his fur sniffing “Bu-but….I-I just got you back''

Discord hugged Celestia closer, sharing the warm with her. ''I know…l I know''

“Can you…can you stay with me this night?”

Discord’s face was graced by a genuine smile.

The sunlight attacked without mercy Alkeryore’s eyes, the sleep that claimed him slowly faded into the nothingness the more time the sun pestered him, he instinctively tried to find a better position but to no avail.

Finally he admitted defeat against the natural course of order.

''The light and darkness aren’t the same and one is not the other…I want to sleep again.” Its stupid to think that because I’m one with the darkness I hate the light at the beginning of the day, any human or living being does not like to be awoken by the sun. I buried my head further in the pillow trying to regain my sleep but I was interrupted when I heard knocks coming from the entrance of my temporary room.

''The Princess has requested for your presence for breakfast!! '' I assumed the responsible was a guard.

I sighed in annoyance, sleeping was far from my grasp; it was time to officially begin a new day. Without care the cover were throw as I got up from the bed where I slept, to begin a new day first I need to change my clothes.

Still that didn’t prevent me from giving a long yawn of tiredness; it was a normal action since I had just got up. After checking my surroundings one more time I made my way to the door.

“Good morning Lord Alkeyore, I am Captain Fleet-foot, please follow me.” The guard or captain motioned with his head and like that we headed for breakfast.

The walk didn’t take much time.

Later…

“I am lost…”

The captain kept talking and talking, his babbler annoyed me to no end so I didn’t pay him attention at all; thanks to that decision now I’m currently lost between the halls of the castle. After some more time of wandering around the empty halls I found myself in completely different part of the castle, I highly believe that they should use some reference for future guest to avoid my situation.

But then I halted.

My ears perked up at hearing a muffled sound.

''The sound…is broken.” I said to myself, I hesitated but then I decided to venture further where I heard the sound. The more I ventured the more I could hear it better. Being close enough I finally could tell that the sounds were cries of sorrow and dread.

''It's not my problem....”

But curiosity is a small defect of mine.

''Bah! Darkness takes me.'' My feet led me through the halls, to my surprise I arrived to a part where light seemed to be no existent despite it was morning. But I can see my surroundings, darkness is my friend and I’m one with the darkness. My eyes caught an entrance made of oak, well one of the many judging by the color scheme, and then the entrance was decorated with gems accompanied with ornaments together taking the form of a crescent moon.

And behind those doors the cries came.

''So this was the source.” I said to no one in particular just letting my thoughts wander. With my curiosity at its finest, carefully my ear was placed on the door and I was able to hear well. I could have used the shadows but it I didn’t have any idea if the room was protected by magic barriers or runes; that thought came judging by the appearance of the door itself.

I heard broken sobs and the word…daddy over and over again.

''Darkness binds me….''

I argued to myself over and over again about entering the room or just leave and forget that it ever happened. It was not my problem after all.

Yet I tried to open the door and find it locked.

Opening doors with magic was fairly common between thieves and assasins.

But there were other spells which could open locks which had been reinforced with magic.

The door was slowly opened revealing what was behind them, a bedroom but of course it was different; the room fitted for royalty.

The night was in the room, figuratively speaking; I ever seen greater then the fairies hidden holds unlike my room the color were masterly mix together gentle on the eyes The floors, walls, and even the ceiling were made out of the same oak as the doors bareing the colors of the night, the room was decorated by simple yet elegance bookshelves, displays, and furniture filled the room in the very heart of the said room was a large circle-like bed baring the laying sobbing form of....

“Princess Luna?”

She had her head deeply buried in one of her any pillows of her bed.

This isn't the princess who I met yesterday, judging by her appearance I thought that her emotions were controlled… perhaps she was only wearing a mask the whole time and such a thing wasn’t unheard of. She was so focused in her time of dread that didn’t heard the door being opened by my hand, slowly I began to made way to her but in circles avoiding a direct approach. Once there I leaned closer and placed my hand on her shoulder or what assumes is one since I don’t know much about their anatomy. The reaction was immediately; she snapped back to the reality and faced the one who interrupted who happens to be me. Her eyes were wide open, but they were red thanks for who knows how much she spent crying. However her eyes were looking to many directions probably trying to understand but when she stopped she sighed.

'' L-L-Lord A-Alkeyore what are you in my room? ''I assumed that her question was more oriented to be a demand.

She probably wanted to put her mask again but she didn’t recover from her pain.

Anyways, since I got in this situation willingly it was time to take responsibility of my actions and try to comfort her, even if that means say her a white lie or probably is not if I were an equine.

''Well princess, it happened that I was lost in the halls when I heard the most dreadful sound from a beautiful woma-...”

“..... mare crying, where would be my manners if I wouldn’t have come and offer some help?

Calling an equine beautiful…or acting as if I am a person of kind heart.

Then the unwanted happened, my words caused her cheeks to turn crimson despite her fur in a dark tone of blue. ''Do you think I'm beautiful?''

I sighed, I needed to finish what I started, so I cupped one of her cheeks with my right hand and wiped her remaining tears away with my thumb, glazing her the eye I spoke the words that sleep upon my tongue ''Why of course I do your beauty is akin to the most glorious of nights, the stars themselves fail in comparison to your beauty, in all my years you are the most beautiful mare I ever seen.''

She attempted to look away but my hand kept her in place

''Y-you are just s-saying t-that…. My sister is the beautiful one… the ponies love her but not me… I'm the useless one, they hate me –“

''Stop!.” My stern voice echoes throughout the room, Luna's sadness became fear in an instant while I looked directly to her eyes ''Listen here and listen good, for starters I never want to hear such degradation about yourself again, secondly; I am not liar my words held the sincere truth if I say something is beautiful then it is indeed beautiful, and finally...” I gave a quick look to my surroundings, then my tone lowered as a gentle smile formed on my lips “I’m not a pony and prefer you over your sister.''

There was silence for a brief moment until she burst into tears as her hooves find their way to pull me into a tight embrace burying her again on my clothes.

Taking responsibility I only returned the embrace caressing her hair letting her stain my clothes.

We spent the next few hours locked in the same position since her cries didn’t leave her. To be honest I felt my legs going numb for remaining in the same position but it was solved by moving a bit or carefully trying to get up so my blood could work correctly for a brief moment. But returning to the subject at hand, the princess did not only cried but she told me all her problems, sadness, worries; she told me about how her own family treated her and the only ones who actually cared for her were Venhayia and Faust; but she kept going, becoming Nightmare Moon, her banishment to the moon for a thousand years by the same sister who claims to care about her, then her return that happened years ago; being defeated by Twilight and her friends who also freed her from the demon that possessed her. But at the end there weren’t many changes; her subjects preferred her sister than her.

'Speaking about my sister… does she know about your presence in my chambers?'' Luna asked as she removed her chin from my shoulder.

''Actually I…” I hope this small occurrence doesn’t get me in real trouble; not that I will be in danger but it will tire me.

But as ever fate is cruel and the bedroom's doors slammed open revealing a Sun Princess who showed a face that expressed all her shock, and literally and I mean literally; her jaw reached the floor; such thing made me flinch back of both surprise and shock. Behind her were The Elements of Harmony and a guard squad who didn’t hide their surprise.

“It's not what it looks like.'' we both yelled into the other's face scrambling our forms away from the other.

Celestia eyes hardened when she composed herself. ''Guards size him, now.''

''B-But Princess…” The squad leader stammered his hesitation.

Celestia slowly trots forward with her anger remaining intact. ''DID I STUTTER?!'' She seemed to have determination in completing her new task in apprehending me.

''Refrain from your intentions, Celestia.'' I warned as I began to use the rise of emotions to rise defenses with my magic “There was no ill intentions, I only gave her a shoulder to cry on.''

However Celestia didn’t trust me and her glare proved it ''Is this true sister?''

''Yes....I… was crying and Alke…”

I felt a my blood boiling for daring to insult me but I needed to remain calm.

“…heard me… h-h-he only came in to calm me down and listen to me.'' Luna’s talk was always cut by an occasionally sob however to my surprise she gave me a warm smile. ''And he says that I'm beautiful, Celestia a stallion says I'm beautiful.'' With that said our fate was sealed.

''Did he now? '' Celestia just say it and then her eyes slowly began to turn white while the aura around her horn became stronger. ''That's good Luna, a male finally LUSTING after you.''

Celestia's blunt statement caused Luna to gasp loudly as her face turned crimson. But in my cause I sighed again.

''But I don't believe neither of you for one single second!'' the mad sister roared, her hoof pointing right at me ''He broke into your room and force himself onto you didn't he, didn't he??!!'' She was lost in her negative emotions.

Probably it was a lost cause to try to reason with her at that moment but it was a worth a shot. '' But nothing happened!!!!!'' We said in unison.

''How do you expect me to believe such a thing?'' She yelled again. ''He disappeared from Fleet-foot’s side and after 3 hours we find him on you Luna, do you know what it looks like to me?''

''Sister we already told you the truth.'' cried Luna, she sounded desperate.

''Luna tell me what really happened'' Celestia demanded

Tears start to form in the corner of her eyes again ''But I am tel-''

I cut her off. “Listen, right now is not the moment she is blinded by fury”

''But Alkeyore…'' Luna said as tears fell.

''Don't worry, everything will turn fine.'' I whisper loud enough for only Luna to hear with a gentle smile

''Well?'' commanded Celestia as she gave another step forward bu before she could gave another one I raised my hand.

''Celestia, may I say something in my defense.'' I ask while quickly trying to figure out a new plan.

''Be quick, Alkeyore'' She sighed.

My smile darkens, I feel my stigma flaring up, Celestia's guards back away slowly fearing consuming them, the air itself grows cold causing the others to shiver uncontrollably ''You want me Celestia then...''

''...Come and get me.'' And my defenses were triggered.

''B-Black magic...'' says Celestia fearfully but sadly she composed herself quickly. “Now your titles make sense 'The Shadow devil' and 'Hexing beast'…You are an participator of the dark arts of magic!!''

''Partially correct, unlike others I’m not naïve fool who gets drunk in power and allow the corruption to rule, this is an art when is mastered you don’t have to pay the price.'' I finished, they feared me but Celestia determination prevented her to fall into that emotion. But Luna of course didn't fear me, because just as she told me her problems and practically most of her life, I had to yet to tell her about mine in return. Celestia stood tall glaring at me her horn channeling a spell which I assumed to be a powerful one since her horn produced such a light that could blind. This type of spells shouldn’t be used in direct combat since they leave you at a vulnerable position which I would have taken advantage if it wasn’t for Twilight Sparkle and her brother who joined to her side to help her to finish the spell.

''STAY OUT OF THIS!'' I shouted at the two smaller Alicorns, and then they were chained to the floor with the shadow chains. They couldn’t move.

Both yelped when they were pulled down to the ground, Twilight was the first to attempt to dispel them only to find that it has a negative backlash on her. I could see a hint of despair forming in her eyes. “SPIKE!”

The dragon entered the scene and tried break the chains with his draconian strength, pretty useless.

''Right…. call a lizard to help you.'' sneered Shining Armor before the one of chains found his way around his throat and tightened its grip; I was responsible for that action. Again I have the advantage of the situation, I could demand things such as our safety till we are out of the castle.

Celestia’s anger faded and fear took its place for the safety of both Alicorns; same case was for the other princess.

“Don't hurt them please.'' Pleads came in.

When a life is at your mercy, you feel powerful like any other. You decided who lives who doesn’t, is an overwhelming sensation but also fragile. One bad step and the thin barrier will shatter falling to the abyss of the dark path. ''If you trust me Luna, then follow my lead.'' I told her, she looked hesitant at first but after giving one last glance to the others she nodded.

''Alright princess, I will not bring any harm upon them.'' I chimed ''Luna, is there a way out of here?' I quickly asked in a low tone.

“The doors and the balcony are the only exits.''

The doors were out of the question since there were many guards there, though it wouldn't matter; it would be like creating your way through a virgin jungle. But spilling blood wasn’t very encouraging knowing who was my currently and only ally in the whole ordeal. ''Luna, where is the balcony?''

''Is right the next room wh-'' Immediately she realized what were my intentions.

''Alright, this is how things will run, I will leave with Luna and if any of you dares to move; then the Alicorns will suffer the consequences, you try follow us…you will be consummated by darkness.'' I stated as together got up from the bed.

Together we made our way out of the bedroom, I never turned my back to Celestia and the rest, and soon we find ourselves out on the balcony. The sun was still there but is reaching the horizon.

“This is where we must part our ways.” I said with a hint of sadness.

“Wait! I’m sure that once my sister calm down we can put this all behind us.” She still had hope in a good ending.

“Don’t fool yourself Luna, we both know it's too late for that” I bluntly said as I stared to the landscape in front of me, but a smile formed on my lips. “But you can always come with me.”

‘’Do you really want me around?’’ said Luna nervously.

“Of course, you’re my friend after all.” With that said Luna smiled and literally gave a small jump of joy.

''But we are still trapped here.'' Luna stated totally forgetting that she could easily fly away, but probably she already knows about it and she doesn’t want to leave me behind.

''Not for long.'' I said after giving a glance below. Before the night princess could question me I wrapped both of my arms around her and gave a leap of faith backwards, intead there was nothing below to catch our fall.

''AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!”

Luna's screams filled ears I couldn't do anything but to laugh at her.

''If I would have told you, then you probably would have refused!'' I shouted still laughing until I feel satisfied.

''ARE YOU INSANE?! she shrieked ''We're going to die if you don’t release my wings!''

“Fret not my friend that I had planned ahead!'' From one of my pockets I retrieved a familiar, which has the ability to fly. I always carry one for emergencies or for other reasons.

''What is that?!'' shouted Luna the moment she saw the small statue in my hand.

''Our ride!'' I shouted while I brought a hand closer to my mouth, then without hesitation I bite my hand with enough force to draw blood. Without a second to lose I started the summoning spell.

''Lost feather be found
form of stone be gone
I call you lord of the skies
aid me now in time of need
with this blood, seal be undone''

A flash of feathers and talons filled both my and Luna's sight followed by an eagle's cry which probably all the citizens of Canterlot heard it.

Then we started to ascend towards the sky.

The sound that we heard weren’t screams or laughs, just the wind and the wings of my familiar serving its master. We kept going upwards and forward but for some reason I felt the need to turn around and see what was behind me.

Right on the Balcony was Celestia staring at us with a different expression which I couldn’t tell apart.

“Keep flying.”

Then her form faded.

The distance between us increased.

We left.

Author's Notes:

edited by xluferx