Between two to three months. That’s all I’ve got at the most, giving that bastard doesn’t choose to randomly escape me. I could be gone by tomorrow, next week, or even in a hour. I concluded. From late hours to early morning, I could only contemplate possible actions. I only gazed at the wooden flooring before me, counting all 567 rings in the 46 timber panels. As the moon departed and the sun rose, I pondered my position.

This must be what terminal cancer is like. I knew of it, mainly from the souls who had fallen to suicide other sins. There's a current dispute about whether or not euthanasia should be considered a sin. It's meant to be coming to close soon, after over one thousand years of debating. Death does have a strange way of altering moral standards and behaviour.

Can’t say I was any different.

New life, new job, a full purpose; I had it all. Sure I was a demon, but that wasn’t even bad. At least I could control this side of me, this primal desire to hunt injustice, even where there was none. Now in this world I was a wasting my life, laying upon a bed sheet, and thinking about the inevitable.

He would escape, I knew it. It would be that moment when he feeds I, and the others, will know when we have reached point horizon. That moment when I lose control… will be the moment I failed to live up to my chosen afterlife: to protect and to serve.

My brow dipped, fangs slowly became exposed, and nothing but fear and anger had consumed me the whole night. If I didn’t get back to Hell, and when it was all over, I probably would have brought damage that would take many lifetimes to repair.

I am more than certain that Celestia is trying to help me, only to save her subjects, at least before turning me to stone. Bloodrage would only take a single glance before devouring her.

Then there’s Twilight…

Speak of the devil; I heard the familiar soft steps of the librarian. Her hooves gently patting the staircase as she descended, at a rather slow rate I noted. Returning from my stupor, shaking my head of the apocalyptic imaginings of the possible future.

I craned my neck around and focused on the lavender mare.

With a small smile, she merrily said, “Good morning Magma Vein. How did you sleep?” She reached the bottom of the stairs and then began moving towards the kitchen. I began sliding my plates out, slowly rising to full height as she passed by. I could tell the long pause was on her mind when she gave me a concerned glance.

“I didn’t.” I stated flatly, stretching my form. Cracking the neck, popping the spine, and moving stretching the hooves got her attention. She winced at the demonic portions of my form, but then gawked at my hooves. I couldn’t fathom what was wrong; they seemed normal, thick, and muscular from what I gathered.

Ah, demon strength. Not easy to conceal with flesh and skin. Tally it as another reason to despise this body. I remarked to myself, earning a chuckle from my other conscious.

What? I question M.V.R, watching as the librarian quickly glanced away, and pause before heading back of into the kitchen.

Nothing…nothing at all. he stated, his voice wobbling between a serious tone and a mirthful snigger.

I ignored him and followed my land-mare into the kitchen. It was surprisingly spacious; the marble sides, chrome fridge, and silver cooker contrasted the natural occurring room. Glancing right, I thought I witness time reverse back to ye old times. Despite the modern utensils of the room, I found a half functioning stove, a cupboard with a door on its hinges, a tea pot and a kettle that rested on its heating stove, a mortar and pestle, and a cauldron.

Hell hasn’t even seen one in 300 years.

“Have you ever considered investing in the other half of the room, Twilight?” I asked, earning a sigh from purple unicorn.

“Yes. However, I always need to dip into the funds for something; like Spike’s gemstone habit, emergency train ride to Canterlot to meet the Princess; my air balloon insurance company just upped its policy by 2.34% alone. I can’t win, so I make do.” she admitted, turning to face me.

She arched an eyebrow and curiously said, “Why are you in here anyway? Normally I bring the food in there.” She then nodded to the front of the library, before returning to focus on me.

“Thought I’d help out,” I stated shrugging, “I think I need to make it up to you after all.” I finished, voyaging deeper into the period confused room.

“Oh you don’t need too. I-” she protested, but was interrupted in politest of ways.

“Twilight, I know we are going to talk about Bloodrage sooner or later. Choosing later will cause tension and awkwardness, sooner will remove it like a band aid. Besides, cooking will help me feel a bit more comfortable.” I removed my hoof from her mouth, before patiently waiting for a response.

I felt the drowsiness kick in, but remained still, not letting the temptation of sleeping before her win.

“If you think it will help. So can you make pancakes?” she asked, cocking her head to the side. The thought crossed my mind, and then quickly disappeared.

“Demon diets are… different.” I admitted, bringing a hoof to the back of my head. “We are omnivorous beings, who live without sugar, preservatives and have intolerance to blessed water.”

“Oh.” is what I got in reply. She then brought a hoof to her chin, tapped it for a couple of seconds, before returning focus to me. “What’s blessed water?” she asked curiously.

“It’s when a divine entity allows water to become healing, or to purify the soul. You have to drink the thing, but humans seem content with rubbing themselves with it, then letting it dry off.” From the confused look she gave me, as I made my way over to the fridge, I gathered I had found a new topic to start the morning off with.

“It’s like buying antibiotics, then throwing them at yourself. They only work if you eat them.” I replied, earning a sudden look of understanding.

“Ohhh.” She then giggled, causing me to arch an eyebrow. “I’m sorry, but that sounds ridiculous. Humans are really really strange creatures.” I paused, recapping my time amongst the mortal realm. Shrugging and smiling, I continued my lecture.

“Yes well, they really know how to use it against my kind.” That got her attention. I stopped by the fridge rested a hoof on its handle.

“Blessed water is poison to a demon. In fact it is the only thing mortals have that can effectively kill a demon that walks amongst them.” I still remained frozen, but had craned my head around to spy her worried look.

“Why? If it heals humans, which you were once, why does it harm demons?” she asked, joining me by the cooling unit.

“It is because humans have something we don’t. You remember when I talked about what qualifies you to go into hell; a dark soul?” She nodded, but I noticed the slight grimace when she must have recalled what happened to said souls. “Dark souls are stained souls. How do you clean a stain Twilight?” I asked, before opening the fridge. Both the light of my form and the illumination of a fridge battled for domination, in the end they both settled and left the floor glowing.

“You clean it obviously, but-”

“Why do you have to be careful when using, say, industrial strength bleach?” I continued, scanning the contents of storage unit.

“Well, you could burn yourself. I mean you wouldn’t actually burn but-“

I faced her, stopping her mid-flow. “I would, Twilight. Punishing the wicked is in itself a sin. I have no soul to clean, so I just keep on building up crimes and vile deeds. I am nothing but a collection of cruel acts. So when the water comes…” I trailed of, turning back around.

“You’re scrubbed away.” she spoke fearfully, although I didn’t turn around, I could tell she wasn’t exactly smiling at me.

“Well, they’d have to get me first. I can move through the shadows, minimise exposure to humans and never come in contact to those who can poses blessed water.” I finished, selecting a few ingredients from the fridge.

“Okay; eggs, cheese, one onion a couple of peppers, half a tub of butter, milk, and turquoise?” I pulled out the chilled stone, before refocusing on the mare. After giving her a bamboozled look, she stepped closer into the light of the fridge,

“Spike likes to keep his turquois chilled. He says it makes them taste better. How I don’t know.” She shrugged, and then faced me with a small smile. “You still wanna make pancakes? I could whip us up some omelettes if you’d prefer.”

“You read my mind. After waking up to scrambled eggs yesterday, I kind of want something along those lines.” I admitted. I grabbed the peppers, onion and the butter, whilst Twilight levitated the milk and eggs.

We were mid-way through cooking, happily content with each other’s silence, when I looked over to my assistant. Well that would be a lie; she was the main chef here, mostly due to how I she knew where a few other ingredients were kept. Anyway, she seemed to be having trouble lighting the cooker.

“Need a hand?” I spoke instinctively.

“A what?” She replied.

“Sorry, old saying. Humans and demons often have hands instead of hooves. Well, my species has claws, but you get the picture.” I explained, strolling over.

“Oh right. I can’t get the ignition working on this.” she stated, frowning and pressing a little black button repeatedly.

“Is the gas flowing?” I added, sniffing the air. I already knew the answer.

“No.” She gave a small giggle, before allowing the gas to escape. I watched her move back to the black button, strike it once before waiting for the results. Nothing. Again she repeated her action, and still nothing happened.

“Excuse me, hot stuff coming through.” I added, gently nudging her out of the way. I looked at the inbuilt stove, resting atop the oven. The air around the circular plates became disoriented due to the escaping inflammable fuel.

I pondered as to what I could do, the ignition wire seemed bust and I only needed a small flame. As tempted as it was to spit on the stove, causing the flame to erupted, I settled on breathing out a short stream of heated air. Applying more and more heat eventually got the stove working.

With explosive results.

I didn’t mind; the flames washed over my facial features, as a small fire ball erupted towards the ceiling. The putrid smell of gas lingered in my snout, as did a small puff of smoke, when Twilight yanked me backwards.

“Magma!” I turned to face her worried stare, magenta eyes darting around my charred face. Pursing my lips to the side, I allowed the trapped smoke to escape. She watched as I smiled and stood back up.

“Twilight, I am fine. I suppose I better explain myself, but it is a secret you cannot tell anyone.” I gave her a serious look, before beckoning her over. She complied, raising an ear. I scanned the room behind us, looking for any other sign of life. Facing her I whispered “Come closer.”

Leaning in, I began to inform her of my hidden truth.

“Not a lot of ponies know, but I’m fire demon. It is really hard to hide it when subtle flames escape my well hidden plates.” I sniggered, feeling her ear slap my snout as she deadpanned.

“Very funny wise guy. I thought you had hurt yourself.” She glared at me, I was still snickering away. soon she gave a small chuckle of her own. “Alright, come on. I wanna eat soon.”

We both returned to our duties, me having to keep changing them as she told me what to cook. It was a pleasant morning, looking out of the back window, I could see the golden glow of Celestia’s work. Her sun graced what seemed to be a local park with its glory; a few trees scattered around to shade the benches beneath them, a playful bundle of foals bounced around, and a small trail weaved through the park and led off into a few distant hills.

“Hey, Twilight. This is a pretty good view. Say, where does that trail go to?” I added, inspecting the buildings closer to us. The regular thatched houses with the occasional business building tossed in.

“You mean Star gaze path? Well…” Upon the pausing I faced her, seeing her aura encasing a knife halfway through chopping an onion. “Actually I don’t know where it goes. All I know is not a lot of ponies travel that path this time of year. Never understood why.” She shrugged and I could see her mull over that comment, even as she continued chopping the slices of onion up.

“Not a lot of ponies go there huh?” I muttered, before yawning loudly. Slapping my lips, the bad taste of cider still lingered in my mouth.

Might be a nice walk to let her talk to me about Rage. Plus it’ll get the recluse out of the library.

“Twilight?” I asked, slicing my third green pepper of the morning.

“Yeah?” she replied. We both faced each other, noticing our handy work. Whilst her slices were perfectly cubic, somehow, mine were progressively getting thinner. Mostly due to how it was my first time wielding a knife as a pony, so from large chunks to more appropriate sized cuts, I was slowly honing my vegetable killing skills.

“Remember how we said we would go for a walk? Well I wouldn’t mind going down there tonight.” I pointed the knife at the path. Returning to my chopping duties I added, “Just to clear the air about Rage. If not a lot of ponies go there, then there is less chance of us being disturbed. I know I said I wanted to do it sooner, but I think a good long walk will be better than a quick breakfast.” I finished off the pepper and faced her. “So what do you say? Wanna walk and talk tonight?”

I heard the soft sniffles as she turned to face me, a miniscule smile emerging from her lips. The teary eyes beamed with a tiny hint of joy and relief. The single water droplet crawling down her cheek perplexed my mind.

“Yes, I would like that. Nopony should bother us tonight.” She continued smiling merrily, until she caught onto my confusion.

“Err…Twilight? I didn’t say something to cause this did I? It’s just a walk, you know right?” I asked, bringing over a dry tea towel. She returned a stupefied look, before giggling to herself. I couldn’t help but stare at her as she collapsed the floor in a fit of laughter.

“It’s the onion!” she finally admitted, resulting in both of us sharing a hearty laugh.

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Breakfast was fine, but I still couldn’t get the state of the kitchen out of my mind. Not only that but I would occasionally catch Spike glaring at the library’s newest addition: Spot. Admittedly he was civil, between the moments when he didn’t lick his cup and plate clean. I took it as a compliment, as I am sure Twilight might of, but the little assistant seemed rather disgusted by his antics.

“So…When is sloppy here going home?” he asked, switching his view to Twilight. He took another bite out of his omelette, but before he could pull his fork out of his mouth, the lavender mare shot a deathly glance at him.

“Spike! I’m sorry Spot, you can stay as long as you need to.” she added, giving a sheepish smile to the hound sitting next to me. I slowly looked to the hound to find no discomfort on his face, besides the small traces of breakfast on his snout.

“Sparkle pony need not fear, and dragon pony is forgiven. Spot remembers him for when we snatched Whining pony.” I saw him cringe; he must have been recounting something I missed. “Spot is very thankful, yes, Spot will help Sparkle and dragon pony anytime.” He added, smiling between the two. Whilst Twilight beamed happily, and I sipped my fourth helping of coffee, Spike still eyed the hound with scrutinizing jade eyes.

“So what’s everybody’s plan for today?” I asked, stopping the build-up of tension between the canine and the young drake.

“I’m going to go see if I can find anything on multidimensional travel. I swear I recall something about it under Far Fetch’s research.” I gazed across the table to find Twilight glancing over numerous books tucked away in the corner of a bookshelf.

“I’m going help Rarity out, then do some chores, and then look after Owlicious tonight. Twilight, why do I have to do it again?” The borderline teen lizard, gave a merciful look towards his adoptive-sister.

“Because, Owlicious is a nocturnal animal, and will need feeding. All I’m asking is that you stay up a little bit longer whilst me and Magma talk about things.” She stated, before bringing a drink of tea to her lips with a violet glow.

“I’m sorry, but who?” I stated, arching an eyebrow.

“My pet owl.” Twilight replied, bringing the cup away. “He’s been in my room since you’ve been staying here. I don’t think he’s all too keen on you.” she finished, glancing at her room upstairs.

“A night owl, how fitting.” I remarked, earning a mocking frown from her.

“So why does you two talking mean I have to babysit buzzard breath?”

“Spike!”

“Sorry, he’s cool. Really, Twi, we’re good friends now. I’m just kind of freaked out by that neck twisting thing of his.”

“Well to answer your question, we’re going for a walk. To get away from any pony who might interrupt us.” She was met with an arched eyebrow from both the gem miner and the gem eater.

“What?” she asked midway from bringing a small portion of omelette to her maw.

“You and Mags ain’t… You know… I mean that’ll be cool and all… You’re awesome Mags… But-” he was quickly cut off by Spot’s interpretation.

“Magma pony is Sparkle pony’s mate?” he asked innocently.

Whilst I spat out my caffeine intake, narrowing missing the librarian, she defensively yelled, “NO!” at the top of her lungs.

“We are just going to talk about Bloodrage, Spot, you know the killer pony that…” Upon spying the curious reptile I halted my aggravated response. I glared at the mutt, bearing my fangs, ensuring he got the message to keep his mouth shut.

“We just need space to talk about him without anypony worrying.” Twilight retorted, holding her chin up high.

“Oh, Spot sorry.” The dog gave an attempt to give his best puppy dog eyes but, whilst effective with his aged pair, he did not gain my sympathy.

“It’s fine.” she replied, before mumbling, “I think I’ll be saying that all day.”

“So anyway, what about you Mags?” Spike stated, awkwardly swinging the topic back to a more enjoyable one. I pondered over this, remaining silent as I leant back into my chair.

Maybe I could fix Twilight’s kitchen. I’d need tools but it’s the least I could do. Now where would I get tools? Well I’m no expert with them anyway, so perhaps hiring is the way to go. First I’ll need money, so I’ll need a job. Hey, maybe I could surprise her as well. Now who can give me a job? I thought, bringing a grey hoof to massage my snout.

Inspiration struck, and I gave a large smile, before returning to a calmer demeanour.

“I think I’ll find a job.” I stated, glancing to the hound. “You can come with me too if you’d like. We can get jobs, and offer a bit more work to do around the place.” I saw him fold his arms, before nodding happily, his tan toned ears flapping around violently.

“Job to help Sparkle pony, yes. Will follow Magma pony.” he replied merrily, switching to the purple mare. “Can pay for ripped pillow.” he stated sheepishly.

“It’s okay, really. You didn’t mean chew on it whilst you slept, right?” she responded, waving a hoof and keeping a reassuring smile.

As tempted as I was to inquire, I decided to finish the final slice of omelette before leaving the table. I collected mine and Spot’s empty plate and cups before heading off into the kitchen. Depositing my serving dishes in the sink, I quickly returned to the room.

“If you want a job I think Applejack’s offer is still available. You don’t mind working in a farm do you?” she asked, collecting her and Spike’s plates with lavender glow encasing them.

“Maybe, but I’m not much for farming. Maybe I could work at the pub. Benefits are payment, I know the guy behind the bar, and the occasional free booze.” The scowl on her face reminded me of when I revealed to have shared a hot tub with her mentor.

“Relax, Twilight, I won’t touch the stuff. Besides I’m trying to make money.” I responded, waving a hoof and heading towards the exit.

“Was it the booze that made him really friendly with those mares Rarity was with?” I heard my scaly roommate whisper to his guardian.

“I heard that.” I stated, passing the table. I looked over to Spot, studied him for a while, before meeting his curious eyes. “Still want to find a job?”

“Yes, Spot want to pay for his stay.” He nodded and accompanied me to the door. Arriving at the wooden portal, we both turned to face our hostess as she began to object.

“Are you sure you should work in the tavern? I mean, shouldn’t you be trying to find a way home?” she asked, concern laced in every syllable.

“What good would it do? I don’t understand a thing about magic, so how will I even begin to start? Seriously I wonder how you even use your magic to levitate objects. So I will leave the research to Celestia, and you as the case maybe. Right now I need to find something to keep me occupied.” I replied looking at her, then facing my canine companion, before nodding to embark on a job hunt.

“Fine...But if you end up in Rarity’s again you will have a Hell to pay!” she yelled as we left. I was surprised to find my vocabulary had rubbed off onto her, but took the threat in.

“Alright, no need to threat Miss Sparkle. I’ll see you past sunset, I have a feeling it will be a long day today.”

It was still a perfect day this in this town, not a single problem found in the cobbled roads before me. A still busy market place to the far right, an elegant standing town hall in the distance to the left, and the main town center a few roads ahead.

“How good are you at moving barrels of alcohol around?”

“Pushing carts of gems is puppies play; Alcohol in barrels no problem for Spot.”

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“I thought Ponyville didn’t want your kind around her litter kicker!” I heard a voice cry out. It belonged to a rather young stallion, bulky and head strong. He was shaded in tangerine orange, and bared a horn. He had been following me and my, once intended, murder victim for the past three streets.

“Spiteful pony better shut up soon, or else Spot remove mouth.” My companion growled. Luckily I had been able to quell his anger, up to now at least.

“Don’t even think about it. That’s my job, and we both now I can do it better.” I was met with a small snort before he slowly nodded his head. “He’ll get tired, then bored, and then leave.” I added, facing my new found ally. He walked on his hind legs, as expected, but I still had my head above his by mere inches.

“Magma pony and dragon pony can live with Spot. The party ponies of the Laughter pony seemed happy with Spot. This spiteful won’t leave Spot alone.” He glanced to me, displaying an emotional mixture of anger and disappointment.

“Ignore him,” I responded, glancing back at the troublesome colt. “Trust me, not everywhere in this town welcomes you with opened arms.”

“Where you going? The vet's this way, if you’re looking for a flea collar!” he yelled bitterly.

The ponies of the town glanced between us and him. I recognised numerous faces; many seemed distressed to find me with a diamond dog. However, they seemed to at least keep it to themselves, some even waved at us. Then once our new companion arrived on scene the ponies seemed somewhat confused. A few, I could sense, sided with him by glaring at the mutt, whilst others thankfully were more open minded.

They still kept their distance though.

“Sir, don’t you have anything better to do than to stalk us both? What exactly do you intend on achieving at this point?” I finally had enough. Turning around, maintaining a calm composure, I faced the annoying orange.

“What do I want to achieve? I want that tick-ridden fur ball out of my town! Those dogs are nothing but trouble, they steal from ponies, they live underground, they crap in the corners! Nothing but degenerate waste of air. Filthy, disgusting, creatures!” he stated passionately, edging closer.

I held my ground, waiting for his next course of action. I had to stand between him and Spot.

“What’s the matter, scared I'll make your bitch run off?” He chuckled, before staring back into my eyes.

“Actually it’s to stop him from making you into cheap leather.” I stated, earning scowl from the colt.

“Oh yeah? Why don’t you let him try?” His horn started glowing, a vibrant shade of apricot.

I was seconds away from reacting instinctively; I really hated the existence of magic in this world, when I heard a word of warning.

Mags… Remember what the princess said. I growled shortly after, already thinking of an alternative way to settle this.

“Spiteful pony better go away, before Magma pony breaks you!” I heard my canine acquaintance yell.

“Spiteful pony murmurmurmurmur,” the pony mocked, before crackling out loud. I heard one pony snigger to my right, whilst others mumbled amongst themselves.

“Watch it buddy, or else you’ll end up like the vanity twins.” I snarled, bringing a hoof down for added effect.

“Who? Wait, you’re the guy who did a number on those two? Psh…Big deal, I could have taken them with all four hooves behind my back,” he retorted, bring s hoof the bat the air away. “You got nothing; you’re just a loser in a suit.” He grinned as my scowl deepened.

“You better go, before I lose. My. Temper.” I added, punctuating each word with an angry flare of fire.

“Whatever, I’m done here,” he added, keeping a straight poker face. “You better watch your back, runt, or else me and my friends will have fun playing fetch with you Fido. Your foalish friend here can’t protect you forever.” He turned around and, thankfully, headed in the opposite direction.

“Spot not welcome in Ponytown, is he?” I focused on my friend and found his expression had sagged. All of his facial features appeared to have been pulled by a mysterious force.

“Yes you are. Remember, not everyone one will welcome you with open arms, or hooves in this case.” I reassured him. Resting a hoof on his shoulder earned his attention.

“You think I, a demonic spawn of evil and bearer of a new age of pain, was given the welcome wagon?”

You kinda were.

Shut up,

Just saying; a free place to stay, entertainment in the form of books, a lot of helpful souls, and a party, with chocolate no less, does not sound like an attempt to throw you out of town. M.V.R stated. I could mentally see him shrug.

After fighting off Celestia’s guards, being bound in shackles, and being treated as a monster upon arrival.I pointed out, watching Spot eye up my hoof.

But you got to see the Princess naked, wet, and dripping with suds over her pretty coat. If you don’t want her, send her my way. he remarked, before wolf whistling.

I honestly have no idea what has gotten into you!

I have an idea about what to put into Celestia.

“Spot thought as much.” The fur ball cracked a smile as we made our way to the tavern. “Magma pony?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks.”

“…Don’t mention it.”

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Mercifully, the day blessed us with the benefit of not having to put up with more racist attacks. We approached the old pub, spying workers amongst the scaffolding, and entered cautiously. I scanned the room, much livelier than my first visit. We both caught the attention of patron, who after a brief stare returned to their private conversations.

Moving along the spectrum of varying level of intoxication, we both found our way to the bar. A rosé tinted mare came into view. With a flick of her mane, she faced me and smiled.

“Hey you’re the colt who put taught those two twins a lesson. Didn’t I see you at Pinkie’s party as well?” she asked merrily.

“Yes I am; I had a little help from Iron Hoof.” Spot took a seat next to me, but she didn’t seem to notice.

“Err…miss?” I asked, worried why she was still focusing on form. Mostly the hooves.

“Sorry, honey, can’t get over how life like your costume is. Very good job, it even moves when you talk.” she admitted quickly, before glancing towards the hound.

“Huh, never had a diamond dog come here before. Welcome to ‘The Broken Cart.’” she chirped, smiling at the hound. I watched another one form on my friend’s face.

“Thank you Pretty pony, nice to meet you.” He spoke, in a softer tone than what I was used to.

“Oh, what a gentlehound.” She continued beaming at him, before returning her attention to me.

“The name’s Berry Punch. I own a majority of the taverns in Equestria. If you can name a town, I can tell where to find one of my watering holes.” she stated, grinning with pride.

“That’s quite a large alcoholic empire you have there, Berry, must be hard to track all of them.” I asked curiously. This was definitely a job worth having. Discount on booze wherever I was. Then again I only had two months,

“Normally I move around, every four or so months I go around and visit each one, checking on the pubs. I collect the pay and return here.”

“Huh, why? If you don’t mind me asking?”

“Well I just like this town. The patrons are alright and I don’t get a lot of throw outs. That’s mostly the reason I have Iron Hoof; he can take out the trash.” she added, giving me a small scrutinizing glance. “Anyway, what can I get you two?” I watched her pull out two mugs, resembling two barrels. They even had a tap at the bottom.

“No drinks, Berry pony, we want to ask for something.” My companion straightened himself up, before resting both of his paws onto the table.

“Sure thing sweetie, what is it?” she asked, switching focus between us.

“Do you so happen to have any job offerings? Me and my friend are kind of in need of some work, with pay.” I added, chuckling to myself.

“Hmmm. Well I could do with somepony working when Iron Hoof ain’t here, but I’m afraid I only have the one offer.” She admitted, giving a sincere look.

I leant back on the stool, and glanced at the floor. I was staring at it whilst I pondered over the options. My mind was lazily drifting around. It was around mid-day, and the lack of sleep was beginning to show. Awning I managed to return to my thoughts, whilst the others waited for a response.

You could give the dog the job, at least he can have one here. By the look of this morning, not a lot of ponies are open to a Diamond dog being here, so finding other work besides this might be difficult.

See if Iron Hoof has any offerings. Working at the gym might be beneficial to disguising your abilities. Plus, you’re starting to get a bit pudgy. So waddle over there soon. The ever encouraging side of my mind was right, well maybe not about my weight. Then again, perhaps this gel thing I have for a gut is more responsive to the sugar intake. Last thing I want is to enlarge the thing.

Although, given that my glowing gut was actually Bloodrage, giving him diabetes might help best him.

“Could you give the job to my friend here, I think I might know a guy who might get me a job elsewhere.” I finally responded, earning a small smile from the mare.

“Great, you can start tonight if you want mister…”

“Spot, is called Spot.” The canine replied, wagging his tail.

“I’ll leave you guys to it then, see you later Spot,” I added, leaving the stool. “Oh and where is the gym Iron Hoof goes to?” I added, turning to face them.

“Down the road, first left, past Saddle lane, and second on the left. Can’t miss it.”

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I can safely say she wasn’t lying. The gym, although still maintaining a cottagey feel to it, was massive. Incredible huge, and was the length four houses combined, and three wide. This monstrosity was definitely a statement to ‘get bigger’ motto hanging above the doorway.

Err… Captain… It appears we have a large quantity of douchebags in the area, I suggest we proceed with caution. I recommend blending in, we are going to need tank tops and those red baseball caps every pony’s wearing. I heard M.V.R quip, maintaining a serious tone before chuckling to himself.

Although I’m sure he was just mocking the bruisers who were walking past, the fact that a majority of them wore similar attire did make me almost believe him. The pace was dominated by earth ponies, I suspect strength is their game, whereas pegasi fly and unicorns cast spells.

Unless you’re Pinkie Pie and have the benefits of all three.

Navigating past countless stallions, each choosing to greet me pleasantly or ‘accidently’ bump shoulders with me. If I had a bit every time they yelped after hitting one of my spikes I wouldn’t need to get a job. I passed numerous bench presses, rowing machines, bucking stations, and made it past the tread mill room.

“Come on faster; I can still see you pulling your punches!” I heard who I was looking for as I entered what appeared to be a training room. Three boxing rings divided half the room, whilst a large half empty stand and a single wrestling mat occupied the other. I could see the stallion I was looking for; his cream coat and signature flat hat and cigar combo was a dead giveaway.

“Kid, get out. I can see your beat. Not a bad day today but boy have you got a lot of work to do.” I heard him shout ringside. Looking towards the center of the ring, I spied two ponies; one was dressed with a blue vest, head guard and tapped hooves, whilst the other followed a similar fashion.

However the other was red, had a more padded form, much like a practise dummy. The blue one left the ring, began walking down path towards the exit, spotted me and jumped out of his skin. Upon apologising, he quickly scurried away.

“Mags!” bellowed the coach, making his way over to me. “How you feeling mate?”

“Still recovering,” I admitted, rubbing my eyes. “How are you, I’m told I might of out-wrestled you.” I smirked as I noticed his jaw bite harder on his cigar.

“Bah, you only get the upper hoof because I was wasted,” he soon returned to classic calm composure. “Gotta say though that’s a good arm you got.” He added smiling, pointing to my form with his lit cigar.

“Thanks.” I added flatly. As much as I wanted to accept the compliment, I knew I was given a supernatural edge. Still, there seemed to be benefits.

“Anyway, what can I help you with?” he asked, nodding for me to follow him back into the exercise machine rooms.

“Well, I was just wondering if you knew if there was any way for me to make a little cash. I could do with a job since I living with Twilight for a while.”

“Well I can’t give you any jobs at the moment, maybe in a week; there’s a guy who’s been caught taking money out of the till, so he’ll be going soon. I’ll let you know soon enough, and put a good word in for you to help around.” He was finishing off his cigar when we left the arena.

“Thanks, but do you know anything short term?” I asked, trying not to seem too desperate. He gave me a grin, meeting my neutral glance.

“As a matter of fact yeah, you could enter the steel pony contest. Put that strength of yours through five challenges and you got yourself five-hundred bits there pal. Just don’t spend it all at once, well, make sure I’m around when you do.” He chuckled heartedly; I joined in towards the end.

“Make sure you’re here in a week, I’ll walk you through it for the try outs. Basically it’s pulling carts, bench pressing, hammer throwing, not the tool variety either, the herculean hold, and finally good old fashion boxing.” He grinned merrily, and looked to the ceiling for a while.

“You know I won it three times, in a row, once. Shame my back packed in or else I’d still be competing.” He added, holding a small smile as he straightened his cap.

“Huh, seems tough. Three times huh? Might need a good coach soon, thinking you could help a guy out a bit more?” I asked, facing an up-coming turn off; left headed out of the cool building, whilst right led towards what the silver sign said was the offices.

“Kid, you wouldn’t even get passed trials without me. Of course I’m helping you; just need a good place to practice. I’m fully booked when I’m working here, and sometimes have to work at the pub as you know. I’ll be free around half four, find a place to practice and we’ll talk.” He stopped at the split in the corridor, eyeing me up.

“And for Celestia’s sake get some sleep. I need full focus from you tomorrow.” He surprised me to say the least. Not many had caught onto my ever growing fatigue as wondered the halls, searching for this colt. Then again, not man approached me to get a good look.

Even then, how would they know what a tired demon looked like?

“That obvious, huh?” I stated, earning a slow nod from my coach.

“Yeah. By the way, I guess you did finally sort things out with that librarian. So how are things between you two?” He cocked an eyebrow, smirking as I groaned.

“Hoof, I only wanted advice so I could apologise. I need a place to say, and she is the only one offering.” That seemed to gain a disapproving frown from the stallion.

“You’re just using her? Not very gentlecolt like pal.” he stated, voice laced with slight irritation. I waved him off, before smiling.

“I mean she’s still my friend, she was before the…argument. I wanted to apologise because I might of hurt her feeling a tad; it’s just coincidence that she is the only one offering me a place to stay. Hence the reason I’m here looking for a job.”

Thankfully I soothed his growing anger, and replaced it with both of us sharing a chuckle at our miscommunication.

“Good, good. Well see you later Mags, remember: find a place for you to train.”

“Will do, see ya round Hoof.”

“See ya soon, lad.”
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Celestia’s sun began to descend towards the ground. I marvelled as the sky slowly morphed into a veil blending from fiery orange to a more soft purple. The night will soon arrive, along with the instinctive response for many to return home. Many residents were as still about, either taking a second out of their lives to greet me, whom I replied to groggily, or simply walking by. The air remained humid; an embracing sort of heat, one associated with a slightly over heated room. Not too hot, and not overwhelming either, only the sort to keep you comfortable.

Walking to the library was a taxing experience; the soothing warmth, combined with the need to sleep was soon infecting me. Like venom in my bloodstream, the need for sleep was spreading around my entire body. A quick walk, followed by a good sleep might just be what I need.

Fucking mortal body.

Eventually I found my way at the step of the great oak house; an amusing thought entered my mind, which I acted on. Before, however, I noticed a strong scent of something that reminded me of a solvent and also metallic. Sticky, unbreakable, strong an unwavering; those words came to mind.

“Honey, I’m home!” I announced, grinning as I opened the door. However, upon seeing the occupants I regretted it immediately.

“Magma Vein? Art thou courting Miss Sparkle?” The indigo alicorn switched glances between me and her sister’s student. Then the rainbow maned one broke out into hysterics.

“What! No, no no no. He’s just trying to be a wise guy,” the accused mare stated defensively. “RIGHT, Mags?” she finished grinding her teeth.

“You didn’t seem to mind last night.” I added, restraining a chuckle. Shortly after I joined Rainbow Dash on the floor, by which point she was choking on her tears, when I saw the shocked look on royalty’s face.

It was the point where Twilight burst into flames, that I picked myself up and attempted to calm things down.

“I’m sorry… I couldn’t resist,” I commented, gasping mid-sentence. “We’re not dating Luna. I was merely joking. You should have seen the look on your faces.” That response earned a small smile form the Mistress of the night, but the lavender unicorn was only staring daggers at me.

“Oh, that was good. No offence, Twilight, but you can do way better than Mags.” The cyan pegasus added, flying up and taking a seat next to purple pony.

“None taken.” I added, arching an eyebrow. I earned a slight titter from Luna. “So what brings you here tonight Luna?” I asked, taking a seat by the table. I watched as she brought a tea cup to her lips, whilst Dash seemed to be refilling her glass cup with a brown fizzy liquid.

“We heard about your…incident.” She seemed nervous about actually stating my past crime. Immediately the Wonder-bolt wanna be perked her ears up.

“What incident?” she asked, bringing her drink down before it had even touch her tongue.

“I am sorry Rainbow Dash, but this is a private matter. It has been wonderful to see you again, but I’m afraid I’m going to have to ask you to leave whilst we discuss certain topics.” She gave a sincere look, almost apologetic.

Groaning, the azure speedster slumped into her seat. After a short pause she sighed, before facing her ruler with a smile.

“Sure, okay Princess. It’s been cool to hang out tonight. See you around Twi,” she commented merrily, before eyeing me up from across the table. “See you later Magma Vein.” I could sense the suspicion in her voice, as well as smell that I finally managed to suss out. Loyalty, strong and stuck to whoever she follows, the scent only made sense moments ago.

She was starting to lose faith in me, which she should be.

The rainbow blur, followed by the slam of the door, signalled her departure. The gust of wind knocked a few books over, much to the librarian’s annoyance. With an adorable facehoof, she groaned, and then grasped all of pieces of literature in her aura and returned them to their rightful places.

“Gotta say, Twilight, didn’t know you could copy me and erupt into flames. You’re just full of surprises.” I added coolly, shifting my head to the right.

“Sorry, I don’t usually do that. Or know how, just promise not to annoy me like that okay?” she added, giving a sheepish smile.

“Maybe, no promise, love.” I heard another groan as I faced the Princess. “So what exactly do you want to talk about?” I asked, restraining a yawn.

“Celestia told us that you may have…performed something… worthy of banishment.” She seemed unsure of herself, as if she was caught between wanting to know the truth and fearing it at the same time.

“Oh, she just announced that I may have done something terrible?” I asked. I knew she would have been informed. Sisters, and royalty, do not keep secrets from each other; the two combined was going to have obvious results.

“Well, we were explaining that we planned to visit, when she told us not to; for my own protection, apparently.” She rolled her eyes, and folded her hooves. “As if I cannot defend myself.”

“Wow, I’m feeling the love all around. You think I’m weak and RD thinks I’m hideous. Tell me Twilight anything you want to point out?” I asked, leaning back into my chair and feigning annoyance.

“You’re sometimes moronic and annoying.” We shared a small laugh, before we returned to the matter at hand… or hoof to be precise.

“Sorry; it’s just a coping mechanism, Twilight. I’m slowly getting used to all this, but it’s still weird at times.” I explained, earning a reassuring nod from her. I couldn’t fight it any longer; the yawn had built up and now need to be released. Upon doing so, the Princess must have caught on.

Not that you could miss it. I must have looked like a flaming bear trap groaning.

“Magma Vein, are you sleeping well?” she asked, taking a second sip of her tea.

“I didn’t get any sleep last night, so I’m kind of exhausted.”

“I see, well that does make things difficult if you cannot concentrate. This is a serious matter; we would prefer thou to be able to explain thineself fully. Perhaps another time is more preferable.”

“That sounds better,” I added before smirking. “We have plans tonight.”

“Oh? What sort?”

“We are going for a walk, not too long, just to talk.” Twilight added, oblivious to the expected results. Luna was confused, much to my silent amusement.

“I thought thou proclaimed that neither of you were a couple? Why would you wish to walk beneath a starry sky tonight?” she asked, bringing a hoof to her lips.

I couldn’t help but snigger as Twilight began explaining the purpose of the walk, further increasing the height of the eyebrow belonging to the Diarch.

“I see. Very well I shall leave you to your ‘walk’.” she added, before heading toward the door. She turned to face us, standing beside the doorway. “We shall see you tomorrow, until then, farewell.”

“See you later, Luna, it’s always a pleasure to see you.” I added, waving goodbye. I let out another yawn, much to her amusement.

“Goodnight, Princess.” Twilight chirped, smiling and waving.

“Trust us Twilight,” she gave a small smirk, before heading out of the door. “It will be.” I noticed Twilight pause, confused by the statement. “Goodbye.” We both heard a strong flapping of wings, before silence engulfed us.

“What did she mean ‘it will be’?”

“No Idea,” I stated, getting out of my chair. “Where’s Spike?” I asked curiously.

“He’s in bed. He kind of had a long day today, Thursdays are the days he has the most chores, and he was helping Rarity out.” She stood up and began to head for the stairs.

“What about Spot?” I asked, halting her form putting her forehoof on the first step.

“Oh, he’s working at the tavern. He was really excited, thanks for getting him a job.” She replied happily.

“And where do you think you are going?” I continued, once again stopping her on the staircase. I arched an eyebrow before grinning.

“Err… to sleep? I thought you were tired?” she responded, cocking her head.

“I also said I’d take you for a walk. As a gentleman…gentlecolt, sorry, I feel obliged to do so.” I commented, heading towards the door. Once I opened it, she was half way across the floor.

“I thought you said you were exhausted?” I was, in fact I was running on reserves, but I had a couple of hours left and I wanted to clear the air about Bloodrage. Practice for talking to the Mistress of the night tomorrow.

“I still have a couple of hours left in me. We only need half that. Come on, it’s a great night, it’s warm, and we can finally talk in piece.” I replied, stepping out. She pondered over this for a while; I could see the cogs in her head spinning as they weighed up the pros and cons.

“Okay, shouldn’t interfere with my schedule, or sleeping pattern as well. Normally I read for an hour and forty-five minutes before sleeping anyway.” she concluded, following me out of the door.

I smiled, and took a moment to examine my surroundings. A slowly growing black canvas was being filled with the pulsating glow of a thousand stars. The town was shifting to its nocturnal stance; random housed lit up by the soft glow of the lights by their windows, and others becoming silhouettes in the ever approaching night. The air remained comfortable warm, and carried the scent of the town.

“Goodnight Rainbow Dash, see you tomorrow.” I added, turning to face my walking buddy with a smile.

“Huh?” she responded, before spying something zip out of her tree-house.

“Awww, come on! I can’t even follow you…” was all I heard as she sped away mumbling to herself.

“You’re scary when you do that.” I heard Twilight state, heading towards the chosen path.

“Is that all? Must not be doing my job right.”