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A Shadow Caught In The Sun

A Shadow Caught In The Sun

by Mystogan Vokunkiin

Chapters

Prologue: Happiness Is Sure To Lead To Tragedy

The country side comes into view, the sun shinning and the sky is as blue as could be. A child with pale skin and long messy black hair and vivid gold eyes runs down the main road on the way home from his usual adventures out in the woods. He was in a hurry as he promised his mother he would help with the daily chores before the sun started to set. His leather boots stomped the ground as he tried to get him with all his might. His clothing clung to his form, making his movements easy when he ran.

"Oh gods, I am going to be late if I don't pick up the pace. Mother is going to never let me here the end of it, that's  for sure..."

He said as he kept on running down the road. Eventually he made it to the crossroads that lead to his village, after he had made the right turn and came over the hill top, through the small wooded area he used as a shortcut. He came to the next hill that lead him into his village, but something was off. There was sound  of screaming, and thick black smoke rising from the whole village. He ran over the hill and stood at the top of it.

(End music here and que the next)

His eyes widened in horror at what he saw. Homes burning and people being slaughter by invading bandits with swords and spears. A large group of them on the other hill raining arrows with fire on them on the village below.

"Mother, father..my friends!"

He exclaimed in panic as he ran down the hill and into the town, running passed the bandits avoiding their attempts at trying to catch him. He ran and ran until he made it to his home, it was burning badly. He ran inside as came to find both his mother and father lying on the floor bleeding profusely from stab and cut wounds. tears flowing from the boy's eyes at what he saw when he ran in. He runs to their side and begins to shake them, trying to get them to move.

"Mother...father, wake up please! We have to get out of here. Their are a lot of bandits here. Please we need to go!"

Both of his parents looked to him with half opened eyes, they smiled weakly and coughed up a bit of blood.

"Ah..Zikel...you made it back...you kept your promise to mommy..."

She coughs up more blood and shakily reaches over to him,placing her cold hand on his

"Zikel...you need to get out of here. It's too late for us dear. Leave this place before they get you to..."

"I can't! I can't leave you two here to die. Please...I need you both!"

He screamed as more tears seemed to pour from his eyes. The house was burning more and more, the structure threatening to come crushing down on all of them

"Listen to your mother my son. It is more important that you live and continue with my legacy as one of the few shadowmancers here in this world. Take the secret pathway I have told you about in the main room. Go in the room and grab the books I have set out for you...and take the shadow dagger with you. You will need it my boy..."

The father coughed up more blood as well. They both looked to Zikel with weak smiles, both of their cold hands on his now

"We love you Zikel...don't ever forget that. We will be watching over you. Now go.."

"But I-"

"GO!"

They both shouted at him. He closes his eyes hard and reluctantly leaves them. He makes it to the fireplace and pulls on a hidden lever pushing the fireplace aside a bit and then closing it, he heard the house collapse from behind it and begins to run down the long halfway with tears still streaming down his face, he lets out screams of emotional pain and sadness as he runs. he falls to the ground as he gets to where his father had told him to go. Laying there and sobbing for a few moments before shaking it away and beginning to grab the needed items for him to flee with. He grabbed the near by satchel, stuffed the books and items needed into it. he looks over to the dagger that proudly sat on a display under bright torchlight. A sheathed dagger that was created in pure black steel,and had a black fiery aura flowing from it. He takes it and looks at the blade with hatred for the people who took his family from him. He takes it and sheaths it into his belt as he runs out of the room and out the secret exit which lead to a riverside outside the village.

"Goodbye mother and father....may goddess of life take you into her loving arms..."

He said as he began to run towards the kingdom, he knew that would be the safest place for him now, even though he had no where else or no other family to run to.

(end music here)

--Nine Years Later, Castle Town Market--

There was a crowd gathered in the middle of one of the squares of the city. A young man stood in the middle of the crowd, cheers and screams were going off around the unknown hooded man. He was tall, sort of athletic build and wore a scarf that covered the lower partof his face. He wore a black frayed robe that was tight up top, but got baggy and flowed freely at the bottom. And black clothe gloves and last but not least, dark leather boots with straps. He puts his hands out to his sides and smiles to the crowd

"You all ready for the show then?! Keep your eyes open!"

The crowd cheered for him again. both children and adults alike. He knew he only had a certain amount of time before the city guards could pinpoint his location though. So he had to entertain his crowd quickly. He holds his hand one above the other, soon two copies of himself would split from him left to right in the same pose. Then the would run in different directions as well as he would, a plum of black smoke covering the area. After the smoke cleared, everyone looked around, wondering where he had gone, They then looked up as they heard a whistle. He and his copies were on each side of the square, standing on the decorative ropes that ran across the area. They all started clapping with amazed looks on their faces. Even a few fangirl screams in there as well. He and his copies would bow deeply as they balanced themselves on the rope perfectly. Suddenly they began to run across the ropes as high speed, black streaks flowing behind them as they ran in a circle around the crowd, jumping to and from different ropes. Finally they all jumped and landed in the middle on their feet. him and his copies took another bow and the crowd clapped again. Tossing small pouches of money to him at his feet.

"Thank you all for watching my shows and supporting me the way you do. Without your patronage, I would honestly be starving. I really do appreciate all the money you give me.."

Just then,he sees a few children run up to him, the copies collecting the money as he kneels down in front of them the only thing that could be seen fromunder the hood and behind the scarf was his golden eyes. Though he was smiling brightly to them. There was a sickness going around the town. And he was doing everything he can to bring a smile to the young ones who were afflicted with it. It seemed that his shows made them smile at least. And that made him happy he could ease their pain.

"We love you Living Shadow. All of us. The way you move and the way you create your illusions...its really amazing!"

"Yeah..I wanna be like you when I get older. Will you teach us how to use shadowmancy?"

Zikel smiled and rubbed his chin a bit

"Only if you kids get better soon. You need to be strong to use shadowmancy. But I have no doubt, that when you are well. You will become good at it in no time."

He said reassuringly. The children gave him a big smile and clapped. Suddenly a random woman called out to him

"Living Shadow, the guards are closing in quickly. You need to go while you can!"

"Thank you for the warning! Alright everyone, time for the encore!"

He said as he finished gathering up the coins that were so generously giving to him. As the guards came and quickly surrounded him, weapons drawn and pointed directly at him, they shouted.

"Alright Living Shadow, your stealing and performing days are over. Come with us now or we will use lethal force!"

Zikel lowered his head for a moment, he was counting down in his head as the sun lowered down,the shadows grew around the square, the crowd knew exactly what was about to happen, their eyes on the guards

"You aren't going to catch him now boys...when its night time. You are in his world now."

An elderly woman spoke to them as they kept him surrounded

"Listen to her men. Save yourself the trouble and go back home to your families and call it a night!"

Shouted another man in the crowd

"Be quiet citizen! Your 'entertainer' is nothing but a thief and a lair! he is going to pay for his crimes and rot in the jails!"

"He isn't a thief! Sure he takes food from the market stalls, but he always returns the money eventually and gives us these shows!"

Shouted one of the merchants he frequently goes to

"Take him men!"

Shouted the commanding officer. And just like that, the sun was out of sight. Zikel chuckled, and just like that, he sinks into the ground and vanishes into the black shadows of the night, the guards closing in just a little too late as he shadow crawls with great speed and out of sight. They crowd cheers loudly again after his escape. And slowly begins to disperse, talking about the event and the show as usual.

Later that night, as Zikel was in his hideout. He couldn't notice a familiar feeling of dread coming over him, sending shivers up his back. And his feeling was correct, he suddenly her loud booms,seeing smoke rise from below the city from his high perched hideout, he makes his way to the corner of the roof top and looks out over the city. Smoke, fire and screams of panic flooded the streets. His eyes widen in horror as he whispers to himself.

"No...please not again...not this again!"

He grabbed his satchel and put what little belongs he had in it, grabbing his dagger and making his way down the roofs by wrapping a piece of roped around another and began to slide down it the ground level. As he does this, he sees a guard trying to fight off two other invade soldiers. As he slids down, he kicks one of them in the head and thrusts his dagger in the other's neck. The guard looks at Zikel with a glare for a moment, then shakes his head

"Thanks Living Shadow...I owe you one for that."

"Then tell me what in the seven hells is going on here?!"

"We are being invaded by the neighboring kingdom. We weren't expecting them so early though, this threw our plans right out the window, Especially with the plague having taken its toll on most of our soldiers!"

"Get to your squad then. You need to be with at least one other guard. Stay with them at all times!"

Zikel disappeared before the guard could protest, As he used the shadows to travel around the city quickly, killing off any invaders he could.He came across those very same children he had seen earlier....dead with arrows in their backs and the adults who had tried to defend him. He stood there with wide eyes, slowly walking towards them and falling on his knees before them. People who he had grown to care for and love. Gone from him again. Why was so much tragedy being brought to this man? He didn't do anything wrong...anything he took, he eventually gave back with the money he earned.

"My friends... I am sorry I wasn't here to help you. This plague that was killing you already was enough...but now this..."

He suddenly slammed his fist into the ground and looks up into the heavens, screaming.

"Tell me gods! What have I done? What have any of these people done to deserve such pain?! Do you get sick kicks out of watching innocent people die?! Do you enjoy loved ones being taken away from others so brutally?! You aren't true gods, you are monsters!"

Just then, large black clouds form directly over him and the city, thunder and lightning strike fiercely and wnd begin to pick up

"Come on then, strike me down you sons of bitches. I am right here! You have taken everyone away from me! Why don't you take my life then you monsters! Smite me down like the almighty beings you are!"

He screamed with his arms wide open, but it wasn't lightning that struck him, A beam of light came straight for him. he figured it was one of the gods answering his taunt and gave him what he wanted. he closes his eyes and smiles lightly

"Mother...father, my friends. I will be joining you soon.."

Suddenly there was nothing left, the light swallowed him up and took him where it was going to take him.

Act 1: A New Land And A New...Form?

Zikel slowly begins to regain consciousness. opening and shutting his eyes as he stares up into the blue sky, the sound of birds chirping and the wind blowing through the trees around him, the grass he was laying on felt so soft, a smiles forming across his face as he laid there. He reached up in front of him and looked at his hand.

"This must be paradise...where my family and friends are waiting for me to join them...at last.."

He then noticed something/...off about his hand, its was a dark grey, and he had..blue claws,he instantly shoots up into a sitting position, looking at his hand then up his body, the parts of flesh that were exposed were also dark grey. he reached up and felt his face, his skin now had a thick scaley texture to it. And he even had a...muzzle?!

"What in the seven hells?! What is going on?!"

He looked around for anything to see his reflection in, as he did, he removed his hood and his scarf from his body, seeing his face in the little pond near by, he lets out a scream as he sees what he had become. he had black horns with light blue tips, same as his claws/ What disturbed him the most though, is his eyes, instead of the part that should be black, it was blue, his irises were still gold, but his sclera was the same blue of his claws and horn tips And then he noticed his wings, dark grey with the membrane that same blue And a long thick tail with a spade at the end of it. He quickly got to his feet the best he could, nearly following back when he did, his legs were different as well. More like a dragon's hind legs, digigrade legs, his feet also like a dragon's, claws and everything.

"This...this is what you have me become then?! Why didn't you kill me and be done with you bastards?!"

He noticed his voice was now deeper and more gravelly. his muscles a bit larger and his over all height raised by another foot, bringing him to a total of seven foot even. White long strands of hair rested behind him,all the way down to his lower back. His hair was this long back home, but it was black. He began to try and work his wings, not really sure how they would work at all since he has never had them.

"I have to admit...at least I get to try something I have never done before though. Always wanted to learn how to fly..."

"He begins working the muscles slowly at first, getting a feel for having 'wing muscles' for the first time in his life. He had to admit,the wings he had were very beautiful to look at, but this new body of his scared him still. he was something that was proclaimed a myth back in his realm. But he was still showing some humanoid attributes in this form.

He begins to flap his wings a bit harder and faster now, feeling his feet leave the ground, he starts to get a bit excited and a bit scared as well. he flaps harder, harder until he was over the treeline of where he was, he looks around at the view, his eyes widening at the beautiful landscape before him

"Oh wow....its so lovely here...this place looks like it hasn't seen one ounce of war in its time. Perhaps this is a form of paradise after all?"

He asked himself as he began to drift forward in flight, often losing his control and still gaining a better grip on on of his new abilities. He sees what looks to be a small town in the distance. he debates on going there to ask for help. but given his current form. Should he? He could cover his face with his scarf and hood, but he can't his his wings and his tail.

"Maybe...this is a common thing for them? I am sure they have seen many dragons before..."

He said as he drifted down into the town square, landing in front of the large fountain, although not very gracefully, but on his feet non the less. As he did, he noticed something VERY odd. The town was full of...small colorful equines. No humans in sight. At all. Zikel places a hand behind his head and scratches lightly.

"Plenty of horses...but no humans.."

He said to himself. Suddenly he felt eyes upon him, and they stared hard. He looked around the see them starring at him with eyes as big as saucers and their pupils were super tiny. He chuckled lightly and lifted a hand to wave to them

"Uum...hi..I was wondering if I could speak with someone who-"

"DRAGOOOOOON! RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!!!"

One of the ponies screamed out,which caused the others to scream and panic as well. he tried tostopthem and waved his hands frantically.

"No NO...I am not going to hurt you..I promise. I just want directions and I want to know where I am is all, please!"

They didn't seem to listen as they all ran inside their homes and locked their doors and even took in their welcome matts. Zikel looked around, spotting the large crystal castle in the middle of the town and smiled lightly

"Ah, maybe their ruler here can help me. I am sure they are surrounded by guards. So I am no threat...right?"

As Zikel walked though the town, he saw eyes peering on him from the windows of the ponies. the windows quickly shutting as he got closer. He let out a sigh of annoyance, then looks up to the large castle in front of him. He walks up the stairs and knocks on the door. Awaiting for someone to answer. he waits for a few minutes, until the door opens and reveals....no one?

"Oh wow...another dragon?! Here in Ponyville?"

Zikel looked down and noticed a little purple dragon with green spines and green eyes. He lets out a sigh of relief and crouches down in front of him.

"Finally, a dragon! You there little guy. Where in the seven hells am I? First I was in my world, now I am here with these...talking equines that ran from me before I could even ask them questions."

"Well of course they would run from you. You are a dragon."

"But...so are you?"

"Well yeah...but I am a baby dragon. I guess they don't consider me a threat..."

"What are they think Iam going to do? Eat them? No thank you. I don't like horse meat."

The little dragon laughed and nodded

"On that we can agree on, that's for sure. Come on in, I will get the princess for you. She will be excited to see you. You aren't like any other dragon we have seen before."

"Princess? You don't have a king or queen here?"

"Nope, we only have princesses...and one prince who is an arrogant stallion who thinks to highly of himself."

"Oh great...nobles are just ad bad here to huh?"

They walked through the castle, passing large room and soon coming to a larger room with a large table and chairs surrounding them, sitting in the chairs were...a group of these colored equines, they seemed to be discussing something importantly, when the little dragon called out to them.

"Hey guys, we have a guest!"

"Not now spike, we are in the middle of a friendship meeting!"

Shouted The lavender one. Zikel spoke out

"I am sorry your highness...I didn't mean to disturb your meeting...I am just lost here> I don't know this land...or this worldfor that matter."

They all turned to look at Zikel as they heard his gravelly voice. They gave the same look the others did, wide eyes and pupils super small

"Oh boy, get ready for more screams.."

He said as he would cover his ears

Act 2: What Is A...Shadowmancer?

Zikel slowly opens his eyes, not hearing the shrieks of fear and panic coming from the group. But, they still had that same expression on their faces. The first one to react was the lavender colored alicorn that came around with glare that could pierce plate armor. Zikel would arch a scaley brow and watches her walk around him, studying his form. He looks down at the other dragon.

"Hey bud...I can understand that seeing me is rather...unsettling. But I didn't do anything wrong...did I?"

"The name is Spike by the way, and the reason why they are acting the way they are is because..well we had a run in with some dragons awhile back. Turns out they were quite the jerks. That's why Twilight here is starring you down. Though from what I can already tell. You don't seem like a bad dragon...you are dressed is very intimidating clothes, but we don't judge by looks here. Right Twilight? After all, he is like no dragon I have seen before. Maybe he is different than those mean ones from the migration."

Twilight continued to circle around him, he looked at the others sitting in the other chairs, three of them wide eyed still. But two of them with the same kind of glare that Twilight had. Zikel crossed his arms and lets out a sigh "Look, if you want me to leave, just say it. I am simply a lost hu-dragon who doesn't know where the hell he is nor what kind of world this is. Everything is so brighter...and talking equines isn't really common from where I am from. Or talking dragons to..."

He turned to Spike and crouched down in front of him offering his hand out to the little dragon. They both shook hands, a smile across his face formed under his scarf.

"Thanks for trying Spike, but I don't think I am welcome here. Perhaps it was a mistake for me to think I could find help here. I saw a city on the cliff side here while I was wandering about. Perhaps I could find some help there.

As Zikel begins to walk out the way he came, he felt himself being tugged on his tail with a strange magical aura, he looked at it then seeing the same aura around the alicorn's horn and quickly pieced it together. He looked at her with a look of confusion.

"Uuuh, if you want me to leave, you gotta let go first."

"I am sorry sir, its just as Spike said, we have had some bad experiences with dragons. But I need to take into consideration that you don't look like you aren't from our world. So again, I am sorry for jumping to conclusions."

"It is fine. Honestly I have grown up being judged upon all my life ever since my parents died. Its been nine years and I have made it perfectly okay. That doesn't mean I don't miss them terribly though."

The other ponies' expression softened a bit as they heard him talk, especially about the part when he lost his family. Twilight came to him first and lightly placed a hoof on his leg.

"What happened to them? If that is okay to ask?"

"Bandits came to our village and set our homes on fire...they killed my family and friends. I was the only one that got away from it all, thanks to my father's secret room."

"I...am really sorry to hear that sir...and I am guessing you were still just a child then?"

"Indeed, no older than nine years of age. I survived on my own from stealing food from market stands and such when I was little. I didn't have any family to go to, so I had to find a way or starve."

One of the other ponies with blond hair and orange fur came up to Zikel and placed a hoof on his other leg, her emerald green eyes looking up into his eyes for a moment,she then patted him gently.

"Ah am sorry to here about that sugarcube, losin' ones family isn't easy.Ah am lucky to have my brother and sister and grabbeh. But you lost whatever family you had...you have muh sympathies. Life will only get better."

Zikel looks between Twilight and the other pony, she had a strange accent for sure, but he didn't mind it at all. He saw the other ponies coming towards him,i with one being..absent. Wasn't there one with a pink mane and pink fur with them? Ah well, maybe she had other business to take care of. The others came in closer as well, first, it was a white unicorn with a purple mane, she was a little heavy on the eye shadow, but she was a beautiful mare non-the-less. Then a yellow pegasus with a pink mane timidly hid behind the white unicorn. And lasrly, another pegasus with a rainbow mane and cyan blue fur. He shifts his eyes between the group, getting a bit nervous at how quiet the room had become. Then white unicorn finally spoke up first.

"Darling what is it that you are wearing? By the looks of it, it is some kind of robe.  with pieces of armor  on your vital spots. Are you a warrior from were you are from?"

"Well, I wouldn't consider myself a warrior. Just a rogue and performer mostly."

Twilight's eyes seemed to sparkle at this new information, here was a new kind of dragon she had never seen before, he stood seven feet tall, seemed fully matured, but he wasn't like any dragon she had ever seen. His body was too different, other than the scales, wings and tail. His legs and arms were more uncommon, like he was a mixture of a creature she hadn't seen before and dragon.

"And what is it exactly you perform? Do you put on some kind of act or something?"

Zikel smiles under his scarf, snapping his fingers as two shadow copies of himself drift from his body, both seemed to have taken on his new form as well. He would see the shocked expression on the ponies' faces. Zikel chuckles lightly at this.

"Do not worry, they are merely copies I created from my magic. I am a Shadowmancer."

Twilight clapped her hooves together in excitement, the others just continued to stare at him and his copies. Whcih were now walking around the room at their own free will. They began to peek around at things in curiosity, like a canine exploring a new area.

"Don't mind them. They are....kind sentient beings in their own way, even though they are part of me and my mind. They won't bring harm unless I tell them to. Though I believe I should introduce myself. I don't want to be a rude guest in your presence. My name is Zikel. A pleasure to meet you all."

He said as he placed a hand over his chest and bowed slightly

"Oooh what a gentlestallion. he has such good manners, especially for a grown dragon! I am Rarity, a pleasure to meet you as well good sir."

The cyan pegasus flew up in front of him and starred at him with a cocky grin

"And Iii am Rainbow Dash. The fastest flyer in all of Equestria, and the toughest pony around!"

Zikel crosses his arms and arches a brow, offering a playful smile under his scarf.

"The toughest around huh? I think me and my shadows will test your theory. See, I am also good at pranks as I am with my performances...shadows can hide in places you would never think to look."

She grins wider at him and glares.

"You are on dragon boy..."

The orange pony catches his attention now by grabbing his hand and shakes it firmly within ehr grip.

"And ah am Applejack. It's a pleasure to meetcha Zikel. Ya should come by muh farm sometime. I got the best darn apples ya ever tasted in your life. Ya won't be disappointed, partner."

"And I am Twilight Sparkle, princess of friendship. It is a pleasure mister Zikel. You seem like quite the honorable dragon to be around."

Zikel smiles a bit and bows his head.

"Well, I am a firm believer in the old saying, "Treat those the way you wish to be treated.". Something my mother always told me when I was younger."

All the ponies smiled when he had told them this. Zikel noticed the yellow pegasus, hiding behind Rarity, he crouched down and rests on his legs, lowering his scarf to reveal his face fully now. She looks up at him with uncertainty in her light green eyes.

"And what might your name be my adorable little pegasus?"

She blushes at being called adorable, and quietly whispers out her name.

"I-I am...fluttershy...its nice to meet you as well, Zikel."

"N'aww...and adorable name for an adorable pegasus. Nice to meet you as well Fluttershy."

He said as he reached out a hand in front of her. she seems to tense up a bit, but he offers ehr a warm smile as reassurance. She nods and lightly places a hoof in his hand, he gives it a gentle shake.

"Now then, I seem to recall there being six of you here. Did your friend have some other business to attend to?"

They all giggled lightly and looked up to him

"Oh that was Pinkie Pie. And she is probably getting your welcoming party together. She does that for everypony who comes here to Ponyville."

Zikel arches a scalely brow

"Every...pony? I guess you mean everyone. But then again, this is a different world..."

Twilight reached up and lightly pulled on one of the hems of his robe, that hunger for knowledge clearly evident in her eyes.

"So...what exactly is a shadowmancer, Zikel? You said it was a form of magic. Is it an evil kind of magic?"

Zikel chuckled lightly, then rests his arms on his thighs as he gets comfortable.

"Well, shadowmancy can be an evil magic. But it usually depends on the user's heart. As my father once said, "Its not the magic that kills people, its the people behind the magic, that kills people.". And I took that to heart as I was growing up. Though I did have to take another's life to save another. Before I was brought here, a soldier from back home was being out numbered. So I stepped in and helped him. But I do not enjoy killing, I want you to know that.. As for what shadowmancy is. It is mainly illusion magic, Like those copies wandering about. They are an illsuion, but an illusion that can interact with objects and beings.Or I can cast a black smoke spell to make my getaways if I am in trouble. I did that a lot when I was back home. They called me the 'Living Shadow'. I was hard to catch, and even harder to track down. And when night fell, it became my playground. I have an ability called shadow crawling, where I can sink into the ground and travel through whatever shadow may be near. But in total night. I can go anywhere, and be anywhere. I also have a few snare spells and things like that. But ntohing to powerful. I mainly rely on my speed and strength, but being able to squeeze through tight spaces and even keyholes has its perks, considering being a rogue requires such skills."

"And did you use these skills to survive on your own?"

"Indeed I did. I had to steal from merchants in order to eat and drink. But I did give them the money I owed them evetually. Which came from the shows I performed."

Twilight nodded repeatedly at the new information. The others seemed to be interested as well.

"You also said you weren't always a dragon? Did you used to be something else?"

"I did,I was a regular human male."

"What is a....human?"

They all asked at the same time. Zikel motioned his copies to him, they combined into one and took the form of his human self, showing them and pointing out the features, Twilight nodded as he gave her the rundown of humans, grabbing her quill and notepad and writing down everything. Rarity seemed to be lost in thought at how Zikel looked, she looked back to him and smiled gently

"And even now, you still look extremely handsome, Zikel. Be careful, you may end up with a bunch of mares here fighting for your attention!"

She teased him, this making Zikel blush. He pulls up his scarf to hide his muzzle and looks away.

"Awww look at him, such a big tough dragon and yet he is shy..."

They all laughed at him playfully, he even let out a bit of a chuckle himself.

"Come on guys...I just get like this when I am around females is all..."

Suddenly there was a knock at the door, these sound like they meant business. Flags were going up in his mind as he shifted his eyes. Something was coming...and coming for him. He throws his hood back up and quickly dives under the table, sinking into the shadow of the structure and vanishing from sight.

"Wait, Zikel its alright!"

Twilight shouted to him. Guard busted through the door after they heard the commotion

"Where is the dragon princess?! Are any of you hurt?!"

Shouted a deep male voice

Act 3: You Cannot Catch A Shadow

Zikel watches from where he was hiding, lifting his head from the shadow he was in to see many gold platted hooves wandering around the main hall looking for him. As he saw them stop in front of the table, his sinks back in the shadow just in time as one of the guards lowers down to look. He shrugs and look back to Twilight.

"The princess received your letter Princess Twilight. But where is he? We need to take him to Canterlot for questioning and to see what his intent is. This is what she and princess Luna wanted."

Zikel noticed that they were looking away from an open window, he slowly climbed from the shadow and crept his way over to it. The girls just watched him in excitement, wondering if he will manage to escape. As he neared the window, he trips over a random floor pillow, causing the guards to look over in his direction. They then pointed to him.

"By order of the princesses, you are to come with us to Canterlot for questioning, dragon!"

"Twilight tried to protest, but the guards instantly rushed him. Zikel scrambled to his feet and took a leap of faith outside the window, but remembering he had wings, he spreads them out full span and glides away from his captives. Landing a good thirty feet away, he took to the ground and began running into the town, running through allies and climbing up building, anything to lost them. Ponies starred on in both shock and curiosity as they saw a dragon being chased by royal guards, some pegasi were flying overhead to get a good view of the show. He would now see he had to outsmart them even more now. Luckily there was a cross section up ahead.

"Alright boys, you know the drill..."

He said as the two copies split off from him and took the left and right path while he went straight. The guards stopping for a moment to decide on which one to chase. Since there was three they all split off after him and his copies. All he had to deal with was one if he ever got close now. Zikel wanted to use his wings and fly. But he was going to save that as a last resort, he was doing fine jumping over obstacles that got in his way. The guard wasn't doing so well though. All that clunky armor can weigh you down, bud. Zikel comes across an apple stand who had a large red stallion with a blonde mane, he leaps over it all the while grabbing an apple, tossing a coin behind him for the stallion to catch.

"Thanks!"

Zikel shouted as he put the apple in his mouth and continued to run off. The other guard have already made contact with his copies, but as they tackled them to the ground, they just grin and vanish into the ground, returning to Zikel. He finally comes across a nice shadowy alley, sliding into it and melting into the shadow. He watches as the guard is completely dumbfounded at how easily he had lost the target. He scratches his head and runs off to see if he could try somewhere else. Zikel just chuckles to himself.

"As long as there is even a sliver of shadow in the light...you won't catch me."

"Is that so?"

A female voice seemed to echo around him, a light brighter than the sun appeared in the alley he was in, forcing himout of the shadows and exposing him fully. He covers his eyes at the bright yellow light and backs away from  it. Out of the light appears a tall pony, she had a white coat and her mane flowed with a spectrum of pastel colors. While she was tall, she was also quite curvy in all the right places. Too many sweets perhaps? She wore golden regalia with the sun on the plate she wore on her chest along with it on her flank. She had a horn and wings like Twilight did. Could she be one of the rulers that he was told about? She took a few steps towards him, this made him back away. He was getting backed into a corner. And he didn't like that at all.

"Stay away from me...I didn't do anything wrong...please."

He said as he drew his dagger and went into a defensive stance. The alicorn stopped for a moment as he drew his weapon, but she smiled to him warmly and continued to approach him.

"You won't hurt me or anyone else here, sir. I can see behind those fierce eyes of yours that you are a warm and gentle soul who is just afraid of a new land. I understand that. But you need to come with me now. Please, lower your weapon."

Zikel knew she had him pegged, he wouldn't try to hurt her, he was hopping his bluff would have worked. But it seemed it had very much failed. He would have to resort to his final escape tactic. He sheaths his weapon and lifts his hands up in the air as if surrendering. The alicorn smiled again and nodded

"Thank you for cooperating-"

She was cut off by his wicked grin as the runes on his body began to glow their bright blue, he suddenly slams a hand into the ground and forces a large black dome over the town, creating a illusion of the night sky and moon that blotted out the sun, this shocked the princess for a few moments, Zikel runs by her with a chuckle, like a shadowy blur with glowing eyes, time slowed down fora moment as he spoke.

"I have more than a few tricks up my sleeve my dear princess. I may not harm the innocent. But I will find a way to escape. You cannot catch a shadow."

Time sped back up as he ran passed her, his sunk into the ground of the fake night he had created and shadow crawled away and out of sight. The ponies in the town where wondering why the sun had set so early in the day. Zikel made it outside of the dome and chuckled lightly, dispelling the dome and making a break for it, as he turned to do so, there she was again, a triumphant smirk on her face and a playful glare. As he was about to dash off again, she leaps onto him, her horn glowed brightly as they were teleported away.

They appeared in a white marble room, it had bookshelves and floor pillows all about the floor, a fireplace to one side of the room, but no windows. She knew exactly what she was doing when she brought him here. She stood over him as he laid there in a daze from the teleportation.

"Well look at that, it turns out you can catch a shadow if you don't give him a place to go hmm?"

Zikel slowly sat up and shook his head a bit,coming out of his daze and narrowed his eyes at her, arching a brow with a wise ass smirk. dusting himself off.

"Can you be sure you really caught me though, princess? Well anyways, you have me here now. And this is better than being put in a cell. So you want to ask questions, I may or may not answer depending upon them."

Celestia blinked a few times at his cryptic way of speaking. But then plops her rear on one of the floor pillows and nods.

"First off. How exactly did you get here? There was a massive magic spike near the Everfree Forest around the time you came here."

Zikel walked around the room, examining the books on the shelves and anything he could find, his eyes flashing a bit from time to time, he turns to her and shrugs.

"You got me, I was swallowed up by a beam of light that came down from the heavens. And here I am. I was in this form when I came here as well. I am not originally a dragon, I was a human."

"And...what precisely is a human?"

"That is a story for another time I am afraid."

"So you are from another world. That explains it then. Also, why are you dressed in such a manner? Are you a magical warrior of sorts?"

"No, I am just a simple shadowmancer and rogue. I steal to survive, but pay back eventually when I have the amount of currency. I am also an illusionist as well. makes for good performances for the little ones."

Celestia arched a brow, then smiled as she heard him say he returns payment, and even uses his magic to entertain children. She stands up and walks over to him, poking his chest a bit.

"You look scary to be sure, but under all that black clothe and scales, lies a heart of warmth. I do believe I trust my former student with you, and her friends as well. I would ask you more personal questions. But I do believe I must wait to get to know you first, sir."

"Well,I can at least give you my name. I am Zikel, A pleasure to meet you princess..."

"Celestia, one of the two rulers of Equestria. A pleasure to meet you as well Zikel."

"One of two you say?"

A dark blue light appears as another alicorn came out of it, she was shorter than Celestia, but she was rather adorable as well, a dark blue coat with light blue regalia on her body, the mark on the chest plate and her flank being that of the night sky and moon. She walked up beside her sister and looked up to her

"So this is the dragon we have heard about Tia?"

"Indeed he is Lulu, I was just questioning him on a few things. He seems like a good pony, despite his rather unsettling appearance."

Luna walks up to him and circles around his form, she then leans up and places her hooves on his chest and stares into his eyes for a moment, then laughs lightly as she looks over to her sister.

"I am afraid my dear sister, that you have been fooled into thinking this is the real one. This one is nothing more than an illusion created from shadow."

Zikel's mouth curls up into a wide wicked grin, crossing his arms as he looks over at the dumbfounded Celestia, her jaw nearly hitting the floor.

"This must be your little sister I take it princess Celestia? She is quite perceptive. Strange how the younger one saw right through me and you couldn't?"

Luna giggled under her hoof and puffed out her chest a bit in pride. Celestia narrowed her eyes at the grinning copy. He walked passed her and slowly began to vanish before leaving her with a few words.

"As I said before Princess...you cannot catch a shadow."

--Ponyville, In A Random Tree--

Zikel laid lazily in one of the large branches with his back against the tree itself, eating his apple as he controlled his shadow puppet. He laughs as he was found out and opens his eyes, finishing off his apple and tosses the core in a trash bin that was below.

"I switched when I was heading to the outside of the dome, I knew you would be there waiting princess. And now the trail has gone cold. Good luck finding me."

Act 4: The Reoccuring Nightmare

Zikel wanders the streets of Ponyville, the sun begins to set making this a good time for him to find somewhere to slumber for the night. He keeps clear of other ponies, staying out of sight until the streets are all clear. He finds a nice little alley and looks around. Plenty of shadow to rest in. he wanders in deeper into the alley, sinking into the shadows, when he did this, it was sort of like a little dimension pocket, he would just float there and drift, this made his sleeping arrangements quite easy when not sleeping in a bed. As he got comfortable, he began to slowly drift off into sleep, clutching his fists as he dreaded what was to come in his slumber.

Zikel's eyes open as he is surrounded by fire, burning building and the sound of screams and panic. He looks down at his hands and in a reflection. He was his child self again, he heard a sickening moan. He turned around to see all of his family and friends limping towards him with burn corpses. He backs away in fear.

"Ziiikeeeelll...you abandoned us....only to save your own skin...your own mother and father...and your friends...you are nothing but a coward..."

"N-no...I didn't abandon you! I didn't know what to do! Please stop! Why must you torment me like this every night?! I wanted to save you all I really did!"

The dream is suddenly consumed by fire, and flashes to the night he disappeared, he stood there surrounded by the adults and children who he performed for, the bodies sickly and full of stab wounds, invading soldiers with glowing red eyes cutting them down one by one, blood splattering the ground and walls around them. One of the children look up at him with a blank stare and a crocked smile.

"You promised you would teach us shadowmancy when we would get better. But now it seems we won't even get to live anymore..you abandoned us also...you are nothing but a monster, a liar, a thief.."

"Stop please! I didn't want this! I was taken from you all that night! It's not my fault!!"

Zikel fell to his knees and grabbed his head, his eyes widening, tears slowly starting to pour from them as the mobs of undead looking corpses started to close in around him.

"You killed us...you killed us...you killed us..."

"No I didn't!"

"ENOUGH!!!"

Shouted a loud bellowing female voice that seemed to make everything vanish around him, what replaced the surrounds was a large lage surrounded by a grassy meadows, and the large moon lighting the who area up with the beautiful night sky filled with stars, the only sound that was heard was the wind running through the grass. Zikel wrapped his arms around himself and continued shaking, nearly falling on his side.

"That is quite the nightmare you have to endure Zikel. I figured you would appreciate a bit of assistance of being rid of it."

Zikel looked up to see where the voice was coming from, it was the blue alicorn he had met yesterday, he quickly regained his composure and turned away, wiping his tears away.

"Thank you...Princess Luna...you are most kind to do that for me. But I didn't ask for your help. Nor should you have done so. I am not deserving of any help from anyone."

LUna arched a brow at him, she walked up and around him so she could look up into his eyes, he pulls his head over his head more to block her view. She narrows her eyes at him when he does.

Zikel...something tells me you have been having this nightmare for a long time now. And the final part of it is a fresh add on. Did this happen before you were brought here?"

Zikel went silent for a moment, trying his best to not break down again, he began to speak, his voice was very shaky.

"Y-yes...the first part of my dream has haunted me since childhood, and now this. I..I didn't abandon anyone! There was nothing I could do!. So why do I feel so guilty about it?! I wanted to help them, I really did, but it was too late!"

Zikel was about to go into another fit of sadness when he suddenly felt a pair of arms wrap around him, then another...and another. He opened his eyes to see his mother and father at first, both looking like they were just fine and smiling up to him lovingly. His body still shaking hard

"It is alight Zikel....you need to let this go my sweet boy. We know you didn't abandon us. We told you to leave us behind...you need to stop this self torment...and let it go my dear."

"Your mother is right my boy. It is time you moved on from this. And I am proud of what a fine man you have grown up to be. And I am even prouder that you have mastered our legacy..."

"Mother...father...I miss you so so much...A day hasn't gone by when I wish we could be a family again. How are you even here though..?"

"We...don't know Zikel, but its only temporary, but we are so happy...to see you have matured and doing well for yourself. We love you so much Zikel. And we hope you find happiness in the new world you have been brought to. Try not to cause them too much trouble."

"Zikel, be safe my son, make your old man even more proud. We will be watching over you."

They hugged once more, Zikel holding on for dear life before than vanished, next was the children and the adults who all appeared to him, they weren't sickly at all from the plague, in fact they were fine. The children smiled and ran up to him

"Its the Living Shadow!"

They all exclaimed as they ran up to him. Zikel's eyes began to water up again as he saw the very faces he couldn't save.

"I...I am sorry...I couldn't...I didn't.."

Two of them grabbed his hands and continued to smile up at him, then others wrapped him in a hug.

No more being sad mister! We aren't mad at you at all!"

"That's right! We know you would have fought to save us if you had known!"

"We want you to know, we don't hurt anymore! We are all in a nice place now were pain no longer exists!"

"Yeah, so no more tears, Living Shadow!"

"Well, we gotta get back now. Our mothers are calling for us! Bye bye Living Shadow!"

He watched as they ran off and disappeared, he then looks to the group of adults, who did nothing but smile kindly to him. He walked up to them and looked between them, the elderly woman that spoke up for him approached.

"We miss your performances dear. You were the best entertainment we have had ever since you first appeared in the city. You be good now. Never let the kindness you have in your heart stray away."

The two merchants he often 'shopped' from came forth as well, patting him on the shoulder.

"You know bud...if we would have known that you went through all that when you were younger, we would have just given you what we could. But, you still paid us back for what you took. You may be a thief, but at least you give back what was owed. And we say, good on ya bud!"

"You...really all don't hold me at fault for any of your deaths? Even thought I said I would do anything for my fans?"

"Of course not, lad. The city was being over run and you couldn't get to all of us at once. Besides, we are in a better place now. So no need to worry about us! We will be seeing you now!"

They all waved to him as they turned away and walked,, vanishing like all the others. Zikel just stood there, his hands forming into fists, then releasing, two words escaping his mouth.

"Thank you...."

Luna walks up beside him after everything and smiles up to him

"You had a lot of people who loved you and still do where you are from. I allowed them temporary gateways to your dream realm. And it seems I made the right call."

"Thank you for doing so princess Luna...I can finally escape this nightmare and be done with it. Knowing all my friends and family don't blame me and are safe in a better place...I owe you big time."

"Well, since you say you owe me. I have a favor to ask. Would you willingly come back to the castle and speak with me and my sister? She realized she was a bit too forceful on trying to uncover who you are. And wishes to apologize and try again. And feel free to callme Luna, thats what my friends call me"

"After what you have just given me...I will comply. It seems the least I could do. And...your friend? I don't think I am deserving to have a friend that is royalty, especially since you are one of the rulers."

"But you don't see me as just a ruler do you? You see me as just another pony who wants to be your friend, right?"

"Well...yes, I didn't want to say that on account of offending you...but you are more down to earth than I thought."

Luna giggled and winked at him

"Wait till you get to know my sister. She is even more down to earth than me. Anyways, we will be awaiting your arrival in the afternoon. We will be sending a couple of guards to escort you by chariot. Which will be in about.....thirty minutes. So you need to wake up now. We look forward to your visit."

The dream faded to white and vanished, Zikel snaps his eyes open to the pitch darkness that was the shadow he rested in, he no longer had to face that nightmare any longer.

Act 5: A Friendlier Visit Than The Last

Zikel slipped from out of his shadow, just as the sun hit it. I was about the time that Luna had said it would be. He looks up to see the chariot arrive just in time. As the guards landed. They motioned him to hop on, but gave him a glare as he did. Zikel smiled broadly at them, knowing it two of the three he had given the slip.

"Ah, hello again boys. Sorry about yesterday. Didn't feel like being taken away in chains and all that. But I suppose I can come along willingly this time."

They snorted at him and took off towards the castle. He wondered why they wouldn't just let him fly there, he did have wings after all. But if the royal guard saw a dragon fly towards the castle, things would probably get out of hand most likely. The whole way there was silent, the guards didn't speak to him, and he didn't speak to them. They arrived at the main courtyard in front of the main doors. he jumped off the chariot and began walking towards the doors. as the guards opened them up, Luna was already there waiting for him with a smile. She waved a hoof to him and motioned for him to follow her.

"Ah good. You made it! Was beginning to wonder if you would really come. Follow me. Tia is waiting the the royal study."

"Tia huh? You know, that name actually makes her seem a bit more cute. And let me guess, you go by....Lulu?"

"I do. How did you know?"

"I had a dear friend back home who's name was Luna. I called her Lulu as well. That was back when I was a child though. Miss her dearly."

Luna couldn't help but smile at up at him as they walked

"Well, feel free to call me Lulu if you want to Zikel. After all, I am your friend now to."

Zikel nodded and returned the smile.

"Very well, Lulu"

"Don't let my sister know I told you this. But she was actually very impressed you slipped by her with such an amazing copy of yourself.. She was a little upset at first, but she laughed it off."

"Awww the princess of the sun didn't like that a shadow escaped her bright light? It can happen you know."

They both chuckled, soon coming upon the door that lead to the royal study, Luna opens the door and walks in, Zikel following behind her. To see Celestia reading a book, it looked like it was on...dragons? Who knows. She heard them walk in and looks up from her book, closing it then standing up from the pillow she was laying on. She wasted no time in approaching Zikel and poking his chest with a hoof.

"Sneaky sneaky thing, you."

Zikel was a bit surprised at how informal she was, but also really didn't mind it. This was royalty he could get along with. he grinned a big toothy grin and puffed his chest out a bit.

"Well princess...all you had to do was ask politely the first time and I would have came to see you. But, because your sister helped me get over feelings I was struggling with, and you asked nicely this time. I am here."

"And thank you for accepting my invitation my dear. Please won't you come and sit with me and Lulu?"

Zikel nodded and sat on the floor pillow across from them, he looked around at all the books on the shelving and on the table. She must have been quite the bookworm, much like her former student. Zikel looked between the two, who in turn looked at him.

"So...what is it you want to know about me then Princess Celestia? I believe I told you I am not from this realm, and I told you that I wasn't originally a dragon..."

Celestia hold up a hoof to stop him, then shakes her head "I want to know about you Zikel. And asking you questions makes it a bit easier because i can be informal with you. As you aren't one of my subjects. You are a new being to this world...for the most part."

Zikel rubbed his chin in thought for a moment, then nodded.

"I guess I should tell you that I am just a simple rogue and performer is all. I grew up without a family. But I had people I could call friends. I have been on my own since I was nine years of age."

Both of the princesses frowned at this. Even though Luna already knew, it still made her feel sad, just as much as her sister.

"You had to go through much hardship and loss didn't you Zikel? I cannot imagine what that must be like. But you are in a new world now. And I understand this is your second day here. But have you considered a fresh start? You have a clean slate here. And with time I am sure that everypony will accept you. Even though you are a dragon. Spike is another exception. He is a baby dragon, as princess Twilight is his mother in a way. She hatched him from an egg during her magical exam. Which is how she also got her cutie mark."

"Uuuh....cutie mark?"

Both the sisters lifted one of their wings to reveal the marks on their flank, the same markings as their chest plates.

"Ahaa, those...so I assume that everyone-..I mean evrypony has one of these?

"Indeed they do,except mostly the younger ones who haven't discovered their talents yet."

"So that's how it works huh? Wish life was that simple back from my world. I suppose you are wanting to know my special talent then?"

They nod to him again.

"Well, I guess you can say Shadowmancy is my special talent. Its been in my family for as long as I know. Passed down from my father's father and even beyond that. And I suppose being a rogue came with instinct as I got older. leaning to fend for myself, stealing food and such. Eventually that lead me to being able to have such agility and the ability to scale buildings and structures with ease. I even learned to take coin from rich people just by smiling at them. I never took from anyone else though. The rich people had more than enough gold to spare...even if they didn't want to share it."

The sister would chuckle lightly as they heard of his method of surviving. They agreed that the rich ponies here did have more than they should have.

"I never told this to the guard or anypony for that matter. But I can understand when we have thefts of food and a bit of coin coming from the city. Its just ponies trying to survive, because no pony will accept them for any jobs. It truly is a said thing. Also,I am curious about your abilities. You call it 'Shadowmancy', this is a form of magic I have never ever heard of in all my time. We have dark magic yes. But I sense..no malice from your magic. Can you explain that to me?"

"Ah, the sun princess wants to know how I escaped her light does she? I suppose I could let you in on it, since we are on good terms now."

She puffs her cheeks out at him and narrows her eyes.

"Y-you don't have to rub it in you know..."

She said in a soft voice as she looks away a bit. Her sister was having a bit of a giggling fit beside her, Celestia shot a glare at her little sister then looked back at him.

"Well, shadowmancy is something along the lines of illusion magic along with a few defensive spells. The spell I used in front of you when you cornered me was an illusion spell. Its something I use as a last resort should I need to make a quick exit. I can only create in within a town at the most. But it allows me to shadow crawl away from my enemies. Which is a form of quick transport. I sink into the ground and use the darkness to get away at great speeds. And the one you grabbed and teleported away with was a shadow puppet. I can create up to six at once now. but my maximum goal is ten."

Celestia and Luna continued to listen to him talk about his abilities and who he was. Their curiosity growing ever more and wanting to know who this dragon was. Celestia seemed especially curious. As she was getting more excited about him. Was...her heart beating in her chest? From what?! This was just a conversation between friends right?!

Zikel and Luna looked at Celestia with her wide eyed expression, Zikel leaned forward a bit and waved his hand in front of her face.

"Uuum..princess? You alright? Did I explain a little too much at once?"

She shook herself out of her daze and chuckled a bit nervously

"Oh no...I am fine my dear...I zoned out a bit is all."

"A bit?"

He teased her with an arched brow. She huffs at him and suddenly stand up, walking towards the door, but turned and smiled to him.

"I have day court to attend to now. Zikel.Please let us converse again in the near future."

"I would would like that, Tia. You are rather fun to poke at. But your company is also quite...enjoyable."

She blinks at what he had called her

"Did you just...call me Tia?"

"I sure did, that's what friends do huh?"

She smiled even wider and nodded to him

"Yes...and thank you. Other than my sister...I felt like I could be myself around you. sometimes a princess needs to let down her collective mane so to special. Thank you again, Zikel."

With that she left the room and closed the door. Zikel could have sworn he heard her giggle like a schoolgirl as she walked away. Luna blinked a bit as she heard it as well

"Well well, look at you. Making an impression on my big sister. You really are full of surprises aren't you mister rogue?"

Zikel chuckled lightly and rubbed the back of his head a bit. Making friend with the two rulers of this land...for some reason, he felt like this maaaay lead to a bit of trouble down the road...

Act 6: To Find A Home

After Zikel said his goodbyes to the royal sister, he made his way back to Ponyville. It was getting rather late by the time he returned there. He wasn't sure where he should go. back to the same alley and into the shadows once more. He walked through the square of the city, his scarf and hood completely covering his face. Getting mixes of ponies who were either frightened or curious. he takes a seat at the fountain and goes into deep thinking mode, his claws lightly rubbing against his chin. they began to whisper about him

"What do you think he wants? He has been here for at least two days now."

"I don't know. But I hope he isn't here to eat ponies... or destroy our town!"

Zikel was too deep in thought to pay attention to the gossiping ponies. He then noticed three small shadows approaching him, his gaze lifts up to three little fillies gazing at him with big adorable eyes. He tilts his head at them.

"Something I can help you little ones with?"

"Well sir, we heard there was a big scary dragon roaming around town. But you...aren't exactly what we thought you were."

Said the orange and purple maned filly.

"Yeah, we thought you were much bigger and scarier lookin'. You are big yes, but not like actual dragons."

Said the one of the others said. Zikel noticed she had the same accent as Applejack. Maybe they were related?

"You actually...seem pretty nice sir. My sister told me that you were quite a gentlecolt. She wasn't lying."

Said the white unicorn with multi-colored hair.

"Well,thank you girls. Its funny, three little girls aren't afraid to come up to me, but all these older ponies take one look at me like I am some kind of demon."

They all four laughed at that, they moved closer to him, he reached into his inner robe pocket and pulled out a bit. The princesses were kind enough to give him some currency before he departed. He holds it in front of them.

"You girls wanna see a neat little trick? It's actually fairly easy."

They nodded their heads excitedly, there eyes on the coin.

""Alright, pay attention now!'

He said as he rolled the coin from one finger to the next. They watched with awe and then flinched back as he clapped his hands together, he then pulled his hands apart and revealed that the coin was...gone!

"Wh-where did it go?!"

They all asked in unison. They looked up at him with eyes the size of small plates. He grinned lightly and reached over to the yellow filly in the middle of the group, she closed her eyes, expecting something back, but it never came. he grabbed her ear gently and rubbed it, then removed the coin from it. He then chuckles and holds it out in front of them.

"Tadaaaaa."

The three fillies smiled brightly and clapped their hooves together. Zikel smiled again and stood up, taking a deep bow.

"That was pretty neat mister. Got anymore cool tricks to show us?"

She reminded him of somepony...like a smaller version of-

"Applenloom!"

"Sweetie Belle!"

"Scootaloo!"

Shouted three different voices, he saw two of the three pony he met earlier running towards them with worried faces. The other flying at him with a glare that was threatening to stab through him. As soon as they got to the group, they pulled the three fillies away from him. Zikel frowned a bit at this. If its one thing he hated. Its when kids are enjoying his show, and the parents or elder siblings pulls them away simply because of how he looks.

"Please forgive Sweetie Belle darling...she is only curious is all..."

"Please ladies I-"

"You better not have been trying to hurt Scootaloo bub!"

"If you would let me explain-"

"Ah told you not to go near him Applebloom, and yet you went and did it anyways!"

"LADIES!!"

They all froze as he shouted at them, he did so to stop them from scolding the fillies.

"Its alright, I don't mind their company honestly. I was giving them a little magic show was all.. Like the ones I told you about back home. Please don't be upset with them. At least they have more guts to approach me, more than I can say for all the adults around here."

The girls looked up at him with big smiles and puffed out their chests a bit. It seems that Rainbow Dash wasn'ttoo happy with that comment,she gets in his face, nearly touching nose to nose.

"I ain't afraid of you dragon boy. You are no scarier than Spike!"

Zikel grins darkly and takes a hold of her head with his claws, a fierce look in his eyes now appear and he draws out his dagger and places it against her neck. Her body goes stiff and her eyes widen with fear, the others gasp at him and watch in horror. After a moment. he sheaths his dagger and releases her. Laughing a bit.

"You sure about that? I believe I just saw fear in your eyes, I can see you still shaking."

"N-no I am not! I was just...surprised is all!"

He looked to the fillies, who looked at him disapprovingly at first, but they couldn't help but giggle a little.

"See? Even they know I would never really hurt anypony here...shake them up a little sure. But I will never bring harm to anypony here unless they are bringing harm to others."

The three fillies escaped their siblings and ran right back up to him, wrapping their forelegs around his legs.

"You know what mister? You are pretty cool yourself. You should come by and visit our club house some time!"

"Yeah, he could go on adventuress with us!"

"Ah second the motion!"

Rarity begins to protest.

"Now girls, I don't think Zikel here would care much for-"

"Sure thing, I would be happy to accept your invitation."

The three old ponies dropped their jaws a bit as he said yes. They jumped around him cheering. His gaze turns to them.

"Don't you ladies worry now, I will make sure these three stay out of trouble. And should they get into it. I will bail them out of it."

Sweetie Belle seemed especially attached to him, she looked up into his eyes and blushed a bit. A thought running through her head

"He is actually...kind of handsome when you look at him.."

Rarity saw the look on her little sister's face and couldn't help but giggle, pointing out what was going on.

"Careful mister tall dark and handsome. My sister looks like she is getting a crush on you."

"A-am not!"

Zikel chuckles softly and kneels down in front of the little unicorn. Lightly patting her on the head.

"Now now Sweetie Belle, its rather adorable you feel that way about me...but consider I am much older than you. Come back to me when you are a grown mare...then we will talk. until then, all I can be is your friend."

She seemed to lower her head in disappointment, but understood and smiled. Applejack came up to him now.

"So Zikel, where ya plannin' to live now that you're here?"

"Honestly Applejack...I haven't a clue. I was thinking I would build my home from the ground up somewhere. Or turn the interior of a cave to something more livable. I think it should be outside of town though. Don't want to cause trouble for anypony else because of a dragon living there."

"Oh sweetie you will be fine. After all, Spike lives with Twilight! I am sure we could help you find a nice place within the town!"

"Uum...Rarity...I have seen the doors on the building...I would have to nearly crouch to get into them."

"Well we can't just have ya sleepin' out in the streets!"

"Well,honestly that's how I grew up. Would be nothing new for me."

"Honestly guys, I could care less where he stays. As long as he doesn't try anything bad. Who cares?"

Zikel noticed, even before the stunt he pulled earlier on her, Rainbow Dash hasn't been too fond of him.

"Rainbow! Don't be so rude to him! He is somepony without a home!"

"Indeed, He is new to this world any you are insulting him like he has done something wrong! Shame on you!"

Zikel puts a hand out in front of Rarity and Applejack, he then approaches Rainbow Dash and locks eyes with her.

"Now you listen here. I could care less what you think about me. Or that you don't like me. But you need to straighten up your attitude. I am trying to make peace around here and make a few friends. But if you don't want to be my friend, then don't. But that doesn't mean that your friends can't be mine either. You don't control their lives. Got it?"

She was about to protest against him, but he was right. She growled at him and flew off, knowing that she was beaten. And she really hated to lose. Zikel turned to look at the others and rubbed the back of his head.

"Sorry...did I go too far?"

"Not at all darling. You were well within your right."

"Yeah, she was goin' way outta line there. We aren't gonna hold it against ya sugarcube."

"Thanks ladies. You are both very kind to me."

Rarity ran up to his side and wrapped her forearms around his arm

"First things first, we need to get you a place to live! There is an open plot in the city here that hasn't been built upon yet. And the land is up for sell. We will go see the Mayor, and then we will get you started! But until your house is complete, I insist you come and live with me and Sweetie Belle!"

Zikel's eyes widen a bit and kept his feet firm on the ground.

"N-now hold on a minute Rarity...that is sweet of you to offer really it is! But uh...I am sure you don't have enough room for someone my size! Yeah, that's it!"

"Besides Rarity, it wouldn't be good for you're customer flow, to have aa dragon livin' with ya and all."

Rarity knew what Applejack said was true, she whined and released his arm reluctantly.

"I have plenty of room over at muh place at the farm. He can stay in the loft of the barn.t Its nice and cozy up there with all the hay."

"I...don't think that will be wise Applejack. If you have other family members other than little Applebloom here. I don't think they would welcome me. But if it makes you feel any better. I will find someplace other than a dark alley. I just don't want to impose on any of you."

"You really are a sweetheart...putting others first before yourself. I could really fall for a pony like you Zikel."

Rarity said to him teasingly. Zikel was glad he had his scarf over his muzzle, so she couldn't see the blush forming over his scales.

"That...is very nice of you to say Rarity...um how about we go and find that land huh?!"

He said quickly changing the subject. They agreed and took him to the the Mayor, she agreed to allow him to pay the land off in installments, and that the first pay-off was free. She understood that he was new to this world as well. And took it easy on him. As they reached to plot of land, Zikel noticed...it was actually a pretty open spot, no surrounding neighbors at all! This was good. Zikel picked up the sign and tossed it aside, wiping his hands together and placed them on his hips. It was going to be a long month for him. But at least he would have his own home once more.

As he saw his new friends off to go do their own business, Zikel saw the sun was now fully gone, and the moon had risen. he decided he would return to the tree that he had made into his favorite nap spot. Not many go by there anyways so he won't be bothered, nor will he bother anyone else. When he gets to the branch that he is comfortable with. He sighs and looks up at the moon. It was so beautiful. The stars shown brightly and the wind was all he could hear going through the tree's leaves. He felt this would be a good night, and he didn't waste anytime.

He reaches into his void satchel, a bag of his own making and pulls out a full sized lute. That's right, he enjoyed music just as much as his performances. But he kept his music to himself. he strummed it a few times, making sure it was in tune. He began slowly, closing his eyes and listening to the notes echo in the area, his fingers working expertly as he played the song that was taught to him by his mother. He gently rocked back and forth, remembering all the good times he had back in his home world. before this all happened.

As he was playing, somepony was approaching, but then they stopped as they saw and heard his music. It was Twilight Sparkle. She had been coming back from an errand and came across him now. Her eyes widened in awe and her jaw dropped. She stood there for a long time, watching and listening to him intently. She couldn't explain it, but the song made her feel so...warm and safe. And to see such an intimidating creature play such lovely sounds from a lute. It made her remember back to one of her reports on friendship

"Never ever judge a book by it's cover. They may look fierce and unfriendly, but you get to know them and then they become your greatest ally...."

The song went on for a bit longer, after he strums the final note, all went quiet. He then heard to sound of hooves clapping together, his eyes snapping open to see Twilight was there, starring up at him with the biggest smile ever. Zikel rubbed the back of his head nervously.

"I...didn't know I had an audience.."

She trotted closer to the tree and nodded.

"You sure did. And I thought it was absolutely beautiful. You are quite gifted Zikel."

"Oh..it was just a song my mother taught me before she died. She used to play it for me every night before I went to bed when I was a baby. I miss her and my father very much. But I know they are in a better place."

Twilight nodded and thought about something for a moment. Then nodded firmly again then looked up at him.

"Rarity and Applejack told me that you purchased a plot of land for a home. But you have no place to go. I insist that you come and stay at the castle with me. You won't be imposing, and I have plenty of space."

"You are very kind to offer Twilight. But as I said to them. I cannot accept such a nice offer. Especially since you barely even know me."

"But I want to get to know you Zikel. The princesses told me of your visit. I want to be your friend to..."

Zikel looked down at the pony. Her purple eyes filled with a hopeful stare. He sighed and slid off the branch and on his feet, walking to her.

"If I come and stay with you and Spike. I am going to look for a job I need to save up as I am getting my home ready. And I will not freeload off of you. Those are my terms."

Twilight jumped for joy as he said that.

"YES! I accept them!"

She wasted no time in dragging him along with her magic. Zikel's mind was racing. This could be a good thing....right?

Act 7: First Day On The Job

It had been two days since Zikel started staying with Twilight and Spike. Already the three friends were growing closer. While he stayed there. He helped out Twilight with anything she needed. That included magic experiments, resorting books, just anything He could do for her. He then slid on his robe and buckled it down. When he wasn't out doing anything, he mainly just wore pants and his sleevless shirt that was tied together in the middle. He didn't wear his boots anymore, as his dragon feet and claws didn't fit them, so all he wore was his leather legs guards. After he got ready, he walks to the door to leave, grabbing the handle after calling out to Twilight.

"Hey Twi, gonna go look for a job again today. Hopefully I can land something. Wanna get started on my home as soon as possible after all."

"Alright Zikel, be safe. And happy hunting!"

She said as she waved to him while passing by. He returned the wave and opens up the door,closing it on his way out and began his search for a way to make money...well the honest way anyways. He went from place to place. Ponies either saying no or istantly shutting the door as they saw him approach. Zikel let out a frustrated grunt and throws his hands up in the air

"Oh come ooooon!"

Zikel walked on for a little more. Coming across a large building that had what looked to be steam coming from the top of the building from a pipe. He rubs his chin in thought, making his way to the building and opening the door, crouching a bit to get in and closes the door behind him. He looks around as he sees ponies getting...massages and taking baths in rather large wooden tubs. He blinks a bit as he continues to look around. This was all so new to him. He thinks back to his time and the primitive technologies and how...advanced this places was. It was like a mixture of future and past all in one. Come to think of it, this whole realm was! He was suddenly greeting by two mares. They both looked quite similar. the only difference was the color of their coat.

"Greetings sir! What can we help you with? Are you looking for a massage?"

The blue one asked.

"Or are you looking to soak for awhile in one of our herbal baths?"

Chimed in the pink one.

"Actually ladies...I am looking for a job. But...something tells me this place maaaay not be for meeee..."

Zikel then noticed the light in their eyes as they heard him say 'job'. They wasted no time in pushing him into the back and slamming the door. He nearly trips over himself entering the room, he turns to the two ponies, seeing them run up to him and smiling.

"So you are looking for a job are you sweetie? Well, you seem like a big and strong stallion. Could you please remove your robe so that we may get a good look at you?"

"Yes, we need to see your physique before we can offer you a position."

Zikel blinked a bit before the slowly began to remove his robe from his body, setting it on a nearby chair. The moment they laid eyes on him they noticed his arms and hands. Their mouths hanging open and their eyes shinning.

"Oooh Lotus....look at him. I think the number of mare customers will sky rocket if we give him a masseur position...he has such fine arms, and those hands look so strong.."

"Indeed Aloe...but we should have him test them out to see if he would qualify for the job."

Zikel blinked a bit. He was getting rather nervous at this point. The mares looked up at him, they giggled lightly and pulled a certain to the side to reveal a massage table.

"Just to let you ladies know...I have never  given a massage before. While I know the human body...I don't know the pony body very well."

"Not to worry dear. I helped out the last employ who signed up with us. My sister Lotus Blossom will be the one helping you...should you need it anyways. I leave him to you dear sister."

"Don't you worry Aloe. He looks big and scary, but also quite handsome as well. And if he is as good as he looks, we will be piling high in bits in not time..."

With that, Aloe smiled and winked to the both of them before she walked out.

"Be gentle with my sister now..."

"Wait what-"

The door closes before he could finish his sentence. He slowly turns around as he heard a gentle patting sound, seeing Lotus laying on her stomache with her head on her front arms looking over at him with a teasing gaze. Zikel could feel his heart beating hard in his chest. He was nervous as all hell. Lotus could see this through his eyes and couldn't help but giggle.

"Oh my, for a big guy like yourself, you seem very very nervous. Do not worry sweetie, just follow my instructions and the rest will fall into place in your mind naturally. Now then,come here."

Zikel gulped a bit, but complied, As he walked over to her, time seems to nearly slow for him, thoughts where racing in his mind normal...then lewd, doing his most best to shove out the lewd. He finally makes it over to the mare and looks down at her.

"Please don't take this the wrong way Lotus, but would you mind if I studied your body so I know the general anatomy. I can find pressure points and points of stress through one of my spells. That way, I can get a little ahead and I won't trouble you with so many mistakes."

Lotus blinked a bit and blushed slightly, but she nodded lightly swaying swaying tail.

"Alright, this will require me going inside of you, so don't freak out when you feel my presence."

She blushed even heavier and before she could say anything, and vanished and turned into a black mist, darting towards her shadow and sinking in it. Lotus went stiff, she no longer had any control over her form, she just laid there. Now at his mercy. he was speaking within her mind.

"Ahaaa....very interesting anatomy. And for someone who works at a spa...you certain have a lot of stress knots all along your back and shoulders Lotus. I am pretty much feeling what you are."

"Forgive me, Zikel...I thought you meant inside me in the...other way.."

Things went quiet for a moment..

"Ooooh nonono Lotus! I would never..i mean..you are beautiful but i....I'll be quiet and get out now..."

Zikel quickly left her body and materialized outside in front of her, looking away with a large blush on his face.

"Maybe...maybe I should go now. I think I may have overstepped my boundaries. I am sorry."

As he was about to leave, he felt her wrap her forearms around his arm. She shook her head at him.

"Its alright hun. I was just...taken off guard was all. Please let us continue. I know you will be an asset to this business."

She said as she looked up to him with a warm smile on her face, that blush from earlier still on her face a little. Zikel nods to her after a moment. Lotus gets back onto her stomach and rests her head on her forearms. Zikel cracks his knuckles and stretches out his fingers he then straddles over her body on the table and begins to place his hands on her back, remembering back to how he saw how his mother and father did this. He began to rub up and down her back, gently applying pressure to the most tense areas, circling and rubbing out the knots. He was careful to avoid using his claws. Meanwhile, Lotus was letting out moan and soft whines with a massive blush across her muzzle. The way he was straddling over her made her think lewd thoughts herself, but also the blush came from how good he was doing this for his first time.

"Oh my...oh my Celestia. You have such wonderful hands sweetie. And you have never ever given massages before?"

Zikel didn't say anything at first, he was now solely focused on the task at hand, continuing to rub up and down her form, making sure to get every tense spot and knot loose from her body, she turned her head to look at his eyes. They were so fierce and serious, but his touch was firm, yet gentle. She wondered what was going through his mind as he fell silent. Though after a few minutes, he finally spoke.

"I am a visual learner of sorts, my mother and father used to do this all the time for each other when they have had stressful days. I am only applying what I have studied. Though from the sounds you are making. I only assume that you are enjoying it. Or am I being too rough?"

"Oh no...you are doing absolutely perfect...I think you will be our most requested masseur we have...um...What is your name my dear?"

"I am Zikel. I probably should haven't given you my name earlier. I am sorry for that Lotus."

Suddenly the was a loud crack as Zikel popped Lotus' back in all three areas at once with both hands, Lotus let out a sharp gasp, her eyes widening quickly, but then slowly drooping back down and a goofy grin spreads across her face. Her tail was swaying faster under him, lightly thumping against his legs. Zikel could tell she was enjoying herself. Now that he had finished her back, it was time for her hind legs, he carefully switches directions and begins to trail his hands from her lower back, down her flank and to her upper legs muscles, kneading and squeezing them while working his wrists in circular motions working that tension from her legs. Wanting to make sure that he got the job. He could have sworn he heard a sensual moan coming from her as he ran his hands over her flank, but that didn't matter to him now.

"You know Lotus, before I came here...no one else was even letting me come in to their establishment to get a job or even ask if I could have one. But you and your sister took a chance with me. I want to thank you for that. I am saving up money so i can build my home just across town. And this opportunity you have given me is greatly appreciated. I will not fail you and her."

"Oh trust me Zikel. You do what you are doing now, and you will not have to worry about making bits. If its one thing I admire about non-ponies...its those hands...they are more effective than hooves. Trust me when I say...mmmnh~...that you will be busy."

Zikel smiled and moved down to her lower legs now, repeating the same process until he felt that it was enough. When he finished, he carefully got off the table and turned to look at her. Zikel blinked a few times as he saw that grin on her face and those sultry eyes...or was she just sleepy?

"Oh Zikel....Aloe is going to be sooo jealous when I tell her what just happened. but she will be excited non the less. Welcome to the team. Now then..could you help me and carry me over to the sofa over there? You have turned me into quite the jello pony..."

Zikel blinks and rubs the back of his head.

"Oh...sorry about that. I just really needed this job was all."

"Oh sweetie, the job is yours, no doubt."

He chuckled as he went over to her and rolled her on her back, lifting her up in his arms gently and carrying her to the sofa, laying her down gently. The door suddenly opens, Aloe makes her way into the room after closing it behind her. She sees Zikel Laying her down on the couch and gallops over with a worried look on her face, but the is relieved to see her sister grinning like a goof.

"Aloe....this dragon...he is without a doubt a master of the body. His hands are so very divine. He has the job alright..."

Aloe looked up to Zikel with big puppy eyes and lowered ears as if saying 'Me next?'. Zikel chuckled lightly and complied. he did the samefor her as he did for Lotus, and now he had two dazed out ponies lying on the couch before him. He was a rogue...rogues had to be good with their hands!

"Well then Zikel...since you have proven yourself to both of us, here is a bit of an advanced payment. Consider it a...investment"

She reached over to a drawer and pulled out a hefty bag of coins, she tossed it to him with her teeth. He caught it and opened it, his eyes widening at how much was in the bag.

"You...are really giving me this much?! Ladies...you don't understand how much this means to me...just a little more and I can get the materials I need to begin building my home! Thank you so so very much!"

He ran up to them both and hugged them in his arms, they each wrapped a forearm around him and nuzzled his face gently.

"And thank YOU Zikel. With you here. Our business will sure thrive even greater than before. And I am sure that your future marefriend will be lucky to have somepony like you. Alright stud, we will see you back here tomorrow nine in the morning. Be ready to impress."

"You better believe I will. Thank you both again. You won't regret this."

He said as he left the two ponies lounging on the sofa. he hoped they would be able to move soon. It finally hit Zikel when he noticed something after he removed the two sister from the massage table. It was a little damp where their legs had been. And the smell of...wait. He looks down at his hands and then back to the door, then his hands again.

"Naaah, couldn't be!"

He said as he walked out the establishment, he had the biggest smile on his face. He had a job, his employers seemed to reeaaallyyy like him and he had friends all over now. Things were indeed looking up for this man. Living here wasn't such a bad thing after all.

Act 8: A Surprise Spa Visit From Royalty Part 1

A month has passed since Zikel has worked at the spa. He has made quite a reputation for himself. He had been given the nickname, 'Hands Of Divinity' by both his co-workers and customers alike. Each one of his customers have left feeling better than ever before they came in. And they come to him on a weekly basis. Sometimes even twice a week. And with all the money he has saved up. He has more than enough to begin construction on his home. And he had it all planned out. His home was going to be made of pure stone. And it was going to have an underground and a ground floor. He was going to make the underground his living space and the ground floor the more common rooms of a home. Kind of like his old hideout back home. But a bit more spacious.

"Soon Zikel...you will have a place to call your own once again. I am pretty sure Twi is annoyed with my constant snoring at night by now. I won't have to burden her with it."

He thought to himself as he was waiting for his next customer to come in to his room. He leaned against the wall comfortably just deep in thought as he waited, his tails swaying behind him lazily. He looks out the window up at the sky. Judging by the sun's position, it was nearly noon. It was about the time and day when Rarity would come and see him for her massage.

"Hmmm, not like her to be not early. Hope she is alright."

Just then the door opened up, he smiled and thought that was her.

"Ah hello there Rarity go-"

This wasn't rarity at all, in fact it was Lotus and Aloe. Who seemed to be in a state of disbelief and...happiness?

"Oooh Zikel...good news, good news indeed!"

"That's right! The princesses have made an appointment here for tomorrow!"

Zikel's eyes widened a bit.

"Is that right, ladies?"

"Mhmm! And all three of them have requested you by your nickname! This is such a big opportunity for all of us here Zikel, and especially you!"

"Aah, so Princess Celestia, Luna AND Twilight? I will be busy, that's for sure."

The twins looked at each other then shook their heads

"Nono dear, Princess Cadence, not Twilight."

Zikel arched a brow at this. Just how many princesses in this damn world are there? He nodded to them again.

"And I take it they don't know my real name?"

"Oh no, they sent us a letter requesting you by the nickname 'Hands Of Divinity' no other."

Zikel's grin grew wider at this

"Tia and Lulu are gonna be surprised when they learn it's me. I can't wait till tomorrow."

"Well ladies. I will do us proud. I won't let you down."

They both run up to him and hug against him.

"We know you won't fail sweetie. After all, you are the best masseur we have here. Especially if Rarity requests you all the time. You are moving up in the world!"

"And its all thanks to you both for letting me work here. You two are very kind to me."

"We are happy to have you Zikel. All of us here. Especially me and Aloe. You have helped us or greatly with the private sessions you have so generously given to us."

Zikel cant help but blush and chuckle lightly

"It just too adorable to pass up...when I massage you two.You get all giglely and squirm under my hands. I can't tellif you are enjoying more than I am...wait..."

They both let our synced giggles and gave him a sultry teasing look. Zikel looks away from them when they do.

"You hear that Lotus? He likes it when we squirm under his touch. How leeewwd."

""Indeed Aloe, such a naughty boy. Not that we are complaining though..."

"Ladies come on...you know our sessions are nothing like that...stop teasing me..."

He said with a massive blush coming across his muzzle, the twins giggled again and hugged him close.

"We know they aren't Zikel. But you are so adorable when you get all flustered when we do tease you. Anyways, Rairty is on ehr way in now. We will leave you to your work!"

"Alright ladies. Let me know if you need help with anything else after I am done. Sge is my last appointment for awhile."

They nod as the leave the room, Rarity soon entered and disrobed in front of him, jumping onto the table and getting comfy, wriggling her body in front of him.

"Alright you stud...come and give momma a good rub down.."

Zikel rolled his eyes at her sultry tone and gaze, prepping his hands.

"Rarity...you are just as bad as the twins. Teasing me to no end."

"Only because its fun to make you blush each time darling."

Zikel narrowed his eyes and lifted a brow at her, she gives him a coy look and he shakes his head and begins his work.

"I swear....you all get a sick pleasure out of teasing a virgin male don't you? Well fine, I am going to make sure this rub down leaves you the way I feel, Rarity.."

He said with a wicked grin, She knew exactly what was coming. And she was swaying her tail in excitement. What? No get your mind out of the gutter! That's not happening till later in the story!

"Yes Zikel...give it to me please..."

(*crosses his arms* Reader..stop..reader, come back here! No! Stop! Stop it now!)

"One full body massage coming up."

He straddles over her back and goes to work on her shoulders and back while is tail coils around one of her hind legs and switches between each one over time, this was a new technique he came up with experimentation with the twin. They seemed to like it. The day went on as usual. Flow of customers died down as five o'clock rolled in. They got the place cleaned up and ready for the big royal welcome. They all seemed so excited except for Zikel. he had nothing to worry about really. After all, he knew two fo them so well that he had been writing to them every other day...he may have not mentioned he was working at a spa...oops. Ah well, they would find out tomorrow. He was happy that they were coming, he just didn't show it like anyone else would.

"Alright ladies, I am headed home. I will be here bright and early."

He said as he waved to the twins, the waved back.

"Alright Zikel, be safe hun! See you in the morning!"

Zikel makes his way back to Twilight's castle, the ponies that he sees on his way wave to him and smile. he smiles in return and waves his fingers to them all. He remembers when he first came here, they would always ignore him or keep their distance. but out of all the time he had stayed in the town, they have grown to accept him. Everyone, but Rainbow Dash that is. She held something against him, and he didn't know what it was. But he didn't let that bother him. If she hated him so much, then she hated him. Nothing could be done. He finally made it to the castle, opening the door and walking into the main room after he closes it behind him. He then sees Twilight sitting on one of the sofas, looking at him with a sly smile and narrowed eyes, lifting up a scroll and arches a brow.

"Well well, mister 'Hands Of Divinity'. You have gotten the attention of not just the two royal sisters, but my sister in law as well."

Zikel blinks a bit and smiles sheepishly, running a hand through his long white hair.

"Ahaaa. so Cadence is her name huh? But why would she make a trip all the way from the Crystal Empire just for a day at the spa?"

"Actually Zikel, that's not the purpose that she is coming here for. We are going to be spending a few days together. I will be joining the three of them as well."

"Y-you all want me to give you massages?!"

"That's right Zikel. You are gonna be one busy dragon tomorrow. Don't worry though. The spa will only be exclusive for me and the others tomorrow. We don't want to overwork you after all."

Zikel gives a mocking bow and smirks

"Oh your majesty, your kindness knows no bounds..."

He said in a mocking noble kind of tone, he then comes up to see her sticking her tongue out at him. He chuckled lightly and walked up to her, hugging her gently and petting her on the head.

"Its all good Twi. After all you have done for me, I would be happy to give you a massage with my magic hands. Its the least I could do."

"You are so sweet to me Zikel, to all my friends. Even though Rainbow Dash doesn't like you...you still smile to her."

"It's whatever with her Twi. Anyways, I am off to bed. Early morning for me!"

"Alright, sweet dreams Zikel, I look forward to tomorrow."

--The Next Day, 10:30 AM--

Everything was ready and in place, the staff members that were needed were standing by. Suddenly the doors opened up, as guards came in, so to did the princesses. Zikel was hiding in the shadows of both Lotus and Aloe. As they walked up to greet the princess, Celestia was the first to speak.

"I am very happy that you took this time to cater to us ladies. And to top itall off free of charge. We thank you both and your staff very very much. But first. I would like to meet this...'Hands Of Divinity'. I and the other princesses have heard so much about this pony from Ponyville and Canterlot ponies alike."

The twin giggled lightly and stepped sideways, as their shadows parted, a dark figure rose from them,spreading it dark wings and now coming into full materialization. Both Celestia's and Luna's jaws dropped as they saw their most dearest friend appear before them. Cadence on the other hand was a little put off by his...shadowy appearance, but Twilight reassured her that all was well.

"You majesties, I will be the one who will be giving you the massages that are ready for you when you should desire them. Please let me know when-"

"Zikel!!!"

Shouted both of the royal sisters, galloping towards him and pouncing him and a dual hug, wrapping their forearms around him tightly

"We have missed you so very much my dear. We had plans to come and see you after we were done here. But we never knew that you were the so called 'Hands Of Divinity'! Why did you keep this from us in our letters?!"

Zikel fell back and hugged them both as they pounced him, he could only smile and shrug.

"Well,I didn't think it would matter ladies. After all, you two are way to busy to worry about a simple dragon."

"That is just untrue Zikel, you are more than just a simple dragon. You are my and Tia's greatest friend. And we care for you deeply. And I am not going to lie...to find out you are the one we have been hearing about...I am...rather excited about it."

Celestia chuckled lightly and sighed

"More than anything though Zikel, we are happy to see you again.."

"As am I Tia, Lulu, As am I."

Everypony in the room was in a bit of a shock, even Twilight. To see the rulers of Equestria react in such a way to Zikel, it was almost...unreal. They got off of him and gave him some room to stand up, looking over to Cadence who looked up at Zikel with an unsure stare. Celestia spoke again.

Zikel, let me introduce you to Princess Mia Amore Cadenza. Or what she prefers, Princess Cadence, Ruler of the Crystal Empire. Cadence, this is the dragon I told you about. Zikel, he has been great friends with me and my sister. Along with Twilight and her friends as well."

Cadence walks up to Zikel, cautiously. She locks eyes with him and stares deep into his heart and soul. She sees nothing but darkness behind those eyes of his, but feels an extreme warmth from...somewhere inside of him. She frowns as he did not show his heart to her, but nods to him

"My little sister has told me a lot about you Zikel. You are a kind soul and will do anything for his friends. But you seem to not bare your heart to anyone. Why is that? What are you afraid of?"

Zikel flinched a bit and averted his gaze from the group.

"Cadence!"

The other three said in a quick and hushed tone. She quickly lowered her head and closed her eyes.

"I...am sorry I asked you that. As the princess of love. It saddens me when I cannot see another pony's heart."

Zikel shakes his head.

"All I can tell you...is that too much happiness, can break the fragile balance, and the great the happiness, the greater the tragedy when it strikes."

The words that came from his mouth made everypony in the room gasp quietly, even the twins. This dragon that was usually joking around with everypony was suddenly a totally different dragon, and it made them both scared and concerned for him. The room was silent forafew moments..then his mood changed as he smiled.

"Alright everyone,let's get these ladies comfortable and pampered, time is wasting!"

"Right!"

They all shouted and began to head to the work stations, ready to help out any of the princesses with whatever they wanted. Zikel looks over to the four of them and nods.

"Well when you are all four ready for your massages, please come to the back room. Everything is set up. I will be waiting."

Celestia tried calling out to him to stop him. but he was already around the corner and gone. She sensed something in him when he spoke those words. Something that was...uneasy and she was going to find out what it was. She joined her friends in the herbal bath. The twins followed Zikel in the back, concern on their faces as they approached him. Memories of the past were starting to creep upon him again. It would seem that Cadence had triggered something within his heart. While he didn't have the nightmares anymore. Bringing up such close things brought him to his parents and friends of whom he had lost. he fought back tears as he kept hsi back to the twins. Doing his best to hide his sadness from his voice.

"Come on ladies...you should be out there with them. I need to get a few more things ready back here. I am alright...I promise."

They approached closer to him, Zikel moved away. They did it again, so did he.

"Zikel...what's wrong sweetie? Please talk to us..."

"Yeah, we are here for you. We may be your employer, but you are our friend as well.."

Zikel's breathing was shaky, he was doing his best to hide his tears and keeping them from spilling out from his eyes, he suddenly collapses to his knees and places his face in his hands.The twins sees this and instantly gallop towards him, coming in front of him and hugging him close, doing their best to calm him down. he lifts his head up to gaze to them, they have never ever since Zikel like this. thaty usual smirk he had on his face and his playful nature...gone.

"I am scared...Lotus...Aloe...I am scared I may lose everything and everyone again. All this happiness I am receiving. Its throwing everything out of balance...and it will all be taken from me..I don't want to go through that again.."

The twins continued to hug him closely and comfort him, Lotus gently lifts his chin with her hoof.

"Zikel..listen to me...there is only one thing you need to know. It is okay for you to talk about these things. You bottle it up too much and this happens. We know that you have a strong heart and a strong will, but remember this. You are not weak because you shed tears for your fallen loved ones. Even the mightiest warrior sheds tears for those he loved and had lost. Sodon't you think for a second...that you are weak for crying. You are a strong, brave and caring dragon who cares deeply about the others around him. And that, takes a lot of courage and will. And we know, that you will fight anything that threatens what you have here with us...with everypony here in our world...your world."

"Lotus is right Zikel...you aren't ever going to lose us or the others. You are too strong for that!"

Zikel began to shed more tears quietly as he hugged them closer against him. he wasn't sobbing, but the streams were quick and pouring

"Thank you both....you don't know how much I needed to hear those words. Especially from ponies like you. I know now I have one I can fight for and protect. And I will be here to do just that."

He hugged them once more before getting to his feet, wiping his tears away from his face and nodding.

"Alright...its time we got to it. Make sure they get what the need while I finish up back here for when they are ready."

"We are on it Zikel!"

They both said before hugging him once more and trotting off, he makes his way into the room he had prepared for allfour of them. Four tables. he closes his eyes and splits himself into four copies. He waits now.

Act 9: A Surprise Spa Visit From Royalty Part 2

Zikel leaned against the wall as he waited for the group of princesses to come when they did. He had gathered himself together after his break down. Lotus was right. It was bad to hold in all that pain for a long time. Zikel could not afford to be so careless with his emtions though. If he would have broken down in front of everyone that was out there. It would have been a bad day all around and he will not ruin it for them. He is taken from his thoughts as the door opened. The princesses were lead in by Lotus, who looked directly at Zikel, giving him a look over to see if he was doing better. She smiles warmly to the dragon,he gave one back. As he came off the wall, as did his copies. They all walked over to each table, one awaiting each princess.

"If you would please come and make yourself comfortable. I will get started."

He said in a professional tone of voice. The mares walked up to the tables and paid flat on their stomachs. Luna already seeking out the real one as she laid there. And seeing that her sister was the lucky one, she pouted for a moment but giggles lightly. Zikel's eyes shifted to Luna, as did the copies.

"Lulu...don't you even start..."

She gives him a coy look with an arched brow, but giggles

"I won't say a thing..."

"Good girl."

The others looked between him and Luna as they talked. Each copy and himself climb on the table and straddle over the princsses' bodies, he cracks his knuckles and places his hands on their backs, the copies doing the exact thing he did, same pressure and everything. As he massaged their bodies, they talked about random things. catching up and learning about things from each other they never had time to discuss. They noticed that Zikel was quiet the whole time.This bothered Cadence especially. Did she upset him with her question from earlier? She would be tense, but Zikel's copy was rubbing that right out of her body. She let out a low whimper of delight as he was indeed living up to his nickname. as did the others as well. He places his hands on their backs. the copies following his every move, and a loud crack was heard from all four of the mares' backs. They shuddered and slumped onto the table. Celestia kept her eyes on Zikel, Did she have the real one giving her a massage or was he just a copy. He caught her looking up at him.

"I am not being too rough am I Tia?"

"No...you are my dear..but after we are done here. I would like to talk to you in private. if that is alright with you."

"I don't see why not."

Celestia nodded, smiling to him gently before she laid her head back on her forelegs. suddenly, all the princesses' eyes shot open when he began massaging their wings. letting out sensual moans of delight when he did. This was nothing new to him. He had gotten used to massaging near sensitive spots of many ponies. He just kept doing his work, eyes solely focused on his task. Although he could hear their tails thumping against the tables as him and his clones worked their wings.. After awhile, he finally finished massaging their whole body. He dismounts them and all his copies converge back into just one Zikel. He nods to the princesses as he walks over to his station, getting things all cleaned up.

"I do hope you four enjoyed yourselves. Please, feel free to make an appointment with me anytime." I am sure being royalty can get very stressful."

He said as he turned around and saw....four limp alicorns with goofy grins on their faces. This cheered up Zikela little. He couldn't help but give a little smile.

"By the sun...'Hands Of Divinity' indeed..."

"Yes dear sister.....not even our best at the castle and in the city can compare to this dragon..."

"Zikel...I believe you owe me an apology..you have been staying with me this long and you haven't been giving me any free massages?! Shame on you mister."

"I I have to admit mister Zikel... I wish you fell into the Crystal Empire instead of here..."

"Well, thank you for your compliments ladies. Take your time getting up from the tables. I will be outside the room if you need me."

Zikel walked out of the room and closed the door behind him, the princesses laid their on the tables, feeling heavy and relaxed from his hands. As he walks down the hall. The staff met him with wide eyed stares, anxious for the result.

"They are going to be there for awhile everyone. Apparently my skills have turned them into jello. In other words, they loved it."

They all cheered and celebrated. This was going to boost business and get them even more bits. While everyone was celebrating, he smiles lightly and slips passed them and outside of the building and in the back. he leans against the building and lowers his head in thought. After a few minutes, an orb of light appears in front of him, and out of it appears Celestia. She smiles to him gently and walks up to him, lightly placing a hoof under his chin and lifting it up so their eyes met.

"Zikel I sensed great distress when you left earlier to get things prepared for us. It..had me worried. Would you care to speak with me about it?"

Zikel looked into her beautiful purple eyes. He remembered what the twins had told him. And he knew Celestia enough to be the one he could start opening up to. He reaches up and gently places a hand around her hoof that held his chin.

"Celestia...Cadence knew that something was wrong when she tried to look in my heart. She may be the princess of love, but that doesn't mean she needed to go snooping around for it. The questions that she asked triggered a large amount of emotion I had bottled up inside...I broke down in the back..."

Celestia widen her eyes a bit and frowned, but nodded.

"She was only looking out for her little sister Zikel. You understand that right?"

"Of course I do...but still...I haven't cried that much since I lost my parents. If the twins hadn't come to comfort me...I probably would have left without saying anything."

Celestia suddenly brought her hooves to his chest and leaned against him gently, gazing into his eyes even more

"Zikel, I know you don't want to bother me or Lulu. But when you are in need of a friend who can be there to comfort you when you aren't around the others. I want you to come to the castle and come to us. No more hiding secrets from me and Lulu...please. We have both grown to care for you very deeply. And to know that you have been troubled behind the smile you always bare. It hurts me especially to know you have been suffering."

Zikel arches a brow as she said that.

"Especially? How do you mean Tia?"

A small blush comes across her cheeks as she averts her eyes for a moment, then looks back up to him.

"I have grown more fond of you over the time we have been writing to each other Zikel. I didn't reveal this to Lulu..but I am always so excited when I get a letter from you...I rush to my chambers to read it every day I receive one. And I have seen Lulu do the same as she receives her letters from you. Zikel....you may be having the rulers of Equestria falling head over hooves with you. At least...I know I am. Lulu is hard to read sometimes."

Zikel blinked a bit as he looked into Celestia's eyes again..by the gods....she was serious! This wasn't a tease or anything. She was telling the truth about how she felt about him. Zikel's heart began to pound hard. nearly ready to explode, she frowned at him as he fell silent.

"Did I...saw something I shouldn't have? Did I come on too strong?"

"Tia...you are making a big mistake telling me these things. I cannot give you a proper answer because I am scared to..I care for you and Luna deeply. But if my happiness gets even more out of balance than it is now. I will be dragging you and her into my suffering. And I do believe you don't want that from me when that tragedy happens."

"Zikel...you are safe in this world now. The things that happened back in your world won't happen here. I promise you that. Me and Luna won't ever let you be hurt again. And we will destroy those who do try to hurt you. We consider you a member of our family."

Zikel thinks on it for a moment, then gaze back down at her.

You truly want you and your sister to go down my path with me? It won't be easy when the time comes."

"Yes Zikel, me and Luna have already discussed this before. We want to be there when you need sompony."

Zikel couldn't help but wrap his arms around her tightly and hug her closely. Celestia blinks a few times but closes her eyes and nuzzles into him.

"I can't give you a proper answer right now Celestia...give me a few days to think this over...and I will let you know if I am ready to bare my heart to you."

"Well my dear, maybe this will help you decide..."

She leans up and locks lips with him lovingly, his eyes widened as she did this, but he didn't fight back..that was his very first kiss, given to him by royalty! A common rogue winning the affections of not one, but BOTH rulers of the land?! What in the seven hells was going on around here?! Celestia slowly pulled from the kiss and narrowed her eyes at him with a smile.

"I shall be waiting Zikel..but don't keep me waiting too long. Its not polite to keep a princess waiting.."

She said as she walked away from him and disappeared behind a corner. Zikel slid down the wall and onto his rear, still in a bit of shock.

"What in the name of all shadows just happened...?"

Act 10: Leave Things As They Are...For Now

It had been three days since Celestia had told Zikel about her feelings towards him. It has been on his mind for that long while he was busy finally building his home. He asked the twins at the spa for them to let him take off for awhile so he could do just that. They agreed and allowed him happily, after all, he was one of the best and most hard working. A little time off would do him some good. As he worked on his home, he had a bunch of worker ponies helping him out as well. Not for free of course, he was going to make sure that they were well compensated even though they denied his money. But he was insistent As they worked hard through the day, thought and thought about his answer to Celestia. She was a wonderful mare and being the lover of royalty wouldn't be so bad...but at the same time, he felt it was being rushed, like he didn't know the royal sisters long enough and did want to know them more.

"That will have to be my answers, for mine, Lulu's, and Tia's sake..and I have an obligation as a man to respond in kind...."

After the day's work was over, they had gotten around to finishing the structure itself, now all that was left was to get the underground going and fully built. This was going to take a week and a half to do. But he didn't mind. Suddenly a letter appeared out of a small orb of light and fell in front of him, he caught it as it fell from then air. he opened it up to see it was from Celestia. He sighed quietly and read it to himself

Dear Zikel,

I hope this letter finds you doing alright. Lulu and I want to extend an invitation to come and stay at the castle for a day or two while your home is still undergoing construction. It would please us both to have you accept our invitation.

Yours truly,

Tia

Zikel closed the letter and slid it into his pocket. he sighs again

"I suppose this means I must also give her my answer as well tonight then...very well, no getting around it!"

He said as he went to gather the things he needed from Twilight's castle. She was out doing things with Cadence, so he just slipped in, grabbed his stuff and slipped back out. Unfolding his wings and beginning to take flight, he lifts into the air and begins making his way to the castle. He had gotten used to flying now, it was actually pretty damn cool now that he had wings. He could soar the skies now like the eagles he had watched back home, doing barrel rolls and loops and all kinds of fun tricks.

As he came upon the castle main courtyard, he was stopped by two guards as he landed and looked him up and down, then back up to him.

"You are Zikel, I presume?"

"Sure am."

"Please follow us, princess Celestia is awaiting you in the south garden. She has been...eagerly waiting for your arrival."

Zikel arched a brow at this

"Was she really so excited to see me?"

They just shrugged/ As they came upon the garden, the guards left him there and told him that she was just around the corner. he nodded and went into the garden, seeing Celestia sitting on a stone garden bench and looking out over the city. Zikel cleared his throat to get her attention, she nearly jumped out of her fur, turning around and eyeing him, spreading her wings and flying to him, pouncing him and nuzzling into him.

"Oh you came! Lulu is going to be so excited!

"Tia I-"

"Ooooh we will get to have so much fun to...it will be like a sleepover!"

He places a finger over her lips, quieting her down

"Tia...I know what you are really after. otherwise you wouldn't have me out here alone with you. And before we get too much into my stay here, I want to tell you my answer."

She gets off of him and rubs her hoof into the ground a bit, looking down and then up at him as he stands, walking over to the railing and placing his hands on it.

"And that would be..?"

"I cant Tia, I-"

"But Zikel...why not? Why won't you-"

"Tia, let me finish."

He looked at her to see her eyes nearly filling to the brim with tears, he walks up to her and gently cradles her face in his hands.

"I cant for now Tia. I am truly flattered that you...really like me in that way. And I really like you to. But I don't know you all that well for us to progress this quickly. You are a wonderful mare. And to get to know you and Lulu more would make me a happy man-...dragon. besides, going into this too fast..it would be my first relationship...and I am terribly inexperienced with that kind of stuff. Soplease give it time, and let this progress naturally. Can you do that Tia? Can you leave things as they are...for now? And let me get to know the sweet and beautiful mares behind their crowns? This applies to Lulu as well. Back home, having two females in one relationship would be frowned upon. But you seem to want her to become closer to me as well. Why is that?"

She nodded and wiped her tears away, giving him a warm smile, answering him without trying to cry

Lulu and I are practically immortal Zikel. And it is hard for us to find lovers in our lives. But someone like you. a dragon is nearly immortal is a potential mate for both of us. And should the love between us and you be true. You will be given immortality as well. To be our mate eternally. But our last partners did not belong with us apparently. So when you came here to Equestria..and you showed just how sweet and lovable you are..I guess I just...I just."

She was about to burst into tears. But Zikel wrapped his arms around her tightly and nuzzled into her, running his fingers through her flowing mane gently, she closes her eyes and nuzzling into his neck

"I get it Tia...both of you were lonely and heartbroken.I am not going to say I know how it feels..I have been lonely for only nine years. But to be alone for as long as you have. I cannot imagine all that time. In all honestly Tia...I do hope this relationship will progress. Because you and Lulu deserve it. And I won't lie, being the eternal mate of two immortal rulers does sound pretty fun."

"So...you are saying yes?"

"No, I not saying yes, but I am also not saying no. As I said, let them progress...I am not going anywhere Tia. Remember that. Now, in light of the conversation we just had. Do you still want to have me over for the next couple of days? I can understand if this has...put a damper on things and I will return to Ponyville right away."

He felt her forearms tighten around his form more, feeling her shake her head

"No..please don't..if anything I want you to stay more. Now that I know me and Lulu won't have to try and rush you...that we can take our time now. I want you here, and I know she will after I tell her about this. Also...Zikel...would object to me and Lulu sharing a chamber with you? We were hoping that..well...you would allow us to sleep with you. Its has been a very very long time since we have had the feeling of a male wrap his arms around us. That's all we seek. Nothing...sexual"

Zikel could see the large blush forming her her pretty white cheers, she looks up at him hopefully and gives him the most adorable puppy eyes ever. he can't say no to that, even if he wanted to.

"Honestly Tia, that would be nice...especially being a dragon now..I get colder than I used to real quick."

Her smile curves up even more and lightly bounces on her back hooves as she hugs him tighter. He couldn't help but chuckle at how she acted. She was...like a young school girl who was with her all time crush. And...Zikel reaaaalllyyy like it.

"You know Tia...behind that royal act you put on for your subjects...the real you is quite adorable. Like a little filly that can't seemto get her boyfriend out of her mind."

Celestia let out a whine and hid her face from him.

"S-so?! Luna is ten times worse than I am..you'll see!"

"Oh and I should also mention. That kiss to gave me...was my first one. And I won't lie, your lips are so very soft and gentle...it was very enjoyable.. Which is why I really hope this works between us Tia."

She covered her mouth with her hooves and widens her eyes.

"I-I gave you your first kiss...? Zikel...how old are you?"

"Oh, am eighteen. I turn nineteen in about a couple months. I am a winter baby."

Celestia's blush deepened as she looked away from him

"You are just barely an adult Zikel...and I took your first kiss...I feel so dirty..I am thousands of years old and you are just beginning your life."

"That may be Tia. But you act about as young as a girl just getting out of seventeen. And its adorable. Plus, I think you and Lulu are very beautiful. You don't look a day over twenty-four..then again you are immortal so that could be why. And remember Tia, I am an adult now. I know Spike is eighteen as well, but in your world, he is just a baby dragon. I have fully matured. My form just changed."

Celestia smiled as he called her beautiful. He was such a sweet man, and even though he denied her his heart for now, she still loved him even more even though she would have to wait longer. But she didn't mind now she knew things could go along naturally now.

So Tia, what are our plans for the evening hmm?"

She released her forearms from around him, plopping on her rear and fiddled with her hooves a bit, looking up at him from under her mane a bit. Another adorable thing she did. Just as she was about to tell him, they heard a voice calling out to her. The voice Zikel heard made him cringe.

Aunt Celestia, I have a commoner I need you to punish, she ran into me and spilled this disgusting ill prepared soup all over my beautiful coat and-"

As he came around the corner, Celestia stood up properly and get her royal face back on, Zikel stood there getting ready to vomit. This unicorn was already pissing him off to no end with his damned annoying whining. He was dragging along a young grey pegasus with blonde hair and rather...strange looking eyes. Them seemed to be all over the place. He was dragging her by her hair, and she was crying in pain as he did.

"Please sir I didn't do it on purpose! Let me go, you are hurting me!"

"Shut you you lowly commoner! I can do worse if I so pleased!"

Zikel had just about enough of this, he drew his dagger from behind him and suddenly shadow stepped towards him, moving in zigzags and leaving black afterimages as he moved, as if just sliding on the ground. The edge of his blade came to the noble's jugular vein, this made the unicorn freeze up and release the pegasus mare, she flew behind Zikel and hid there, peeking out from behind one of his legs shaking in fear.

"W-what do you think you are doing you foul beast, get your claws off me. I am prince Blueblood, and I will have you executed for this!"

He presses the blade a bit harder against his neck

"You know what friend? Anyone tell you that you lack compassion for those less fortunate than you are? I could cut your throat and leave you bleeding right here. I do not answer to you, nor do I answer to the rulers of this realm. I am not of it. But, for Tia's sake. I am willing to spare your pathetic life. It's nobles like you that give the good ones a bad name."

Celestia watched this with pure shock on her face, but did indeed answer.

"He is right nephew. while he isn't a member of this realm...yet. He could spill your blood and I couldn't do anything about it.I would be extremely unhappy with him. But he is right non the less. Be grateful he is deciding to let you go on my behalf. Now then, accidents happen. And a little bit of soup falling into your coat can be easily fixed with a bath. You honestly need one to clean your attitude anyways"

Zikel laughed as he walked away from Blueblood.

"Good one Tia."

He looked down at the little pony who was smiling warmly up to him, she leaned up and hugged him tightly, nuzzling into his leg.

"T-thank you Zikel...always looking out for me aren't you?"

"As always Derpy, just be more careful next time alright?"

He said as he reached down and ruffled her mane a bit, but petted her as well.

"Now, get back home, I am sure your daughter is wondering where you are."

She nodded and gave him one last hug before flying off. Blueblood was not pleased, the petty insults began.

"Aunty why is this....creature even here? He is a disgusting dragon."

"This 'disgusting dragon' as you call him is my personal guest nephew. And you will treat him with respect. He is mine and Lulu's best friend."

"THIS is the friend you boast about all the time?! HA, what a joke! Why he is nothing more than a commoner himself!"

Alright, Zikel was ready to shred this fool down verbally

"I may not be of royal or noble blood, but I have more nobility than you ever will. that much is true. And I will have you know, I bath regularly. And also, I would show Tia here what you really are, but i don't think she wants me to pull down my pants and show me ass"

Celestia nearly lost it then, she had a hoof over her mouth and nearly went into a giggling fit,a big one to. Blueblood was steaming,his horn began to charge up, he reared back and threw a lightning spell at the laughing princess. Zikel was quick to react, he only had time to get in the way of the spell and block it. He lets out a growl of pain as the stream of lightning hits his body over and over. Celestia'seyes widen in both shock and anger as she saw Zikel get struck over and over.

"Blueblood, that is enough!!! Stop this now!!!"

"Oh no dear Aunty, I knew he would move in front of you to protect you, I am going tokill this commoner, and throw him into the fire...he is going to pay.."

Zikel suddenly lets out a low growl of anger, his eyes shifting in Blueblood's direction as he began to fight against the spell, he pushed Celestia out of the way and sunk into the ground, he traveled the shadows over various items that were scatter about the garden, eventually making his way over to  the attacking unicorn and reached up from the ground, dragging him down into the shadow of a near by tree. What went on in the little dimension...lets just say Blueblood was coming out covered more in blood than soup. A few minutes passed, and suddenly Blueblood was flung from the shadows, covered entirely in small cuts from head to hoof Zikel flew out after him and straddled over his struggling form,he locked a hand around the unicorn's throat and began to squeeze,smoke rising from the dragon's nostrils and a look of pure bloodlust in his eyes, he readies his blade to cut the throat of the unicorn, but he got a better idea.

"So you like to throw lightning spells at your family do you? Well then, I am going to make sure that you won't be able to do any magic...at all."

Celestia only watched in horror at what was unfolding, she tried to stop him

"Zikel please...don't kill him. He may be a lowly coward, but he is still part of my family..."

"Oh don't worry Tia...I am not going to kill him."

He said, even though his was still choking the life out of the unicorn, his legs kicking and shaking under the large dragon. He brings his blade to the tip of the unicorn's horn and slowly begins to drive the blade into it, Blueblood's eyes began to widen and he let out a scream of pain and thrashed about even harder.

"How does that feel hmm? You feel the pain of others you caused with your petty nature and cowardly ways? Attacking when backs are turned. Does that hurt like hell?

"Stop, it hurts!!! Release me!"

Suddenly the blade is shoved in deeper, and with a quick twist, Blueblood's horn snapped in two and fell from his forehead with a blean cut, blood dripping down his face now. Zikel takes the pieces of the horn and holds them in front of Blueblood

"How does it feel to have something taken from you that you will never see again 'noble'? Not so fun is it?"

He asked before crushing the horn in his lands into dust and letting it flow away.He walks over to the beaten unicorn and kicks him in the ribs,sending him out the way he entered. Celestia looked at Zikel with pure fright in her eyes. This normally sweet and playful young dragon was now...a monster. Zikel sheathed his dagger and looks back over to Celestia. He approached her slwoly,she began to back away from him, her eyes met his as he got to her. He suddenly fell to his knees and lowered himself down a bit.

"Please forgive me Tia...this whole entire evening was ruined because of my anger I had towards nobles like him frommy world. Someone like him had a friend of mine executed in front of me. And I guess...the way he was treating one of my friends here..and the fact that he aimed at you to get to me..I lost control."

Celestia went quiet fora few minutes, Zikel nodded and stood up as he went to grab his things

"Understood, I will leave this place then. Sorry about cutting him up. Don't worry, he won't die, just have multiple scars is all. See you around Tia."

He was about to lift off until he felt her forearms wrap around his waist, pulling him down. he looks over his shoulder at her.

"Tia...?"

"You are a damned fool Zikel...stepping in the line of a powerful lightning spell to protect me. He wouldn't have hurt me as much. But you fell right into his trap. But...I can honestly say..it made me happy knowing that you would do something like that for me if the situation called for it. Please, lets go inside..we need to get you cleaned up after that...And Iam going to be sharing that bath with you. No negotiations."

She said as she would press against him, escorting him into the castle, walking passed the injured hornless unicorn who was now being tended to by the royal doctors.

"You..will pay for this dearly, beast."

Zikel stopped and turned his gaze to Blueblood.

"Whatever you plan to do, I may not be so nice next time. And if you EVER use Tia or Lulu like that against me again. You will lose more than your horn."

He said as he and Celestia began to walk to the castle.

Act 11: Sentencing And Bonding Time

Luna sat on the throne as Night Court was taking place, she had finished let last case and was about to wrap up for the evening. That was, until one of her guards ran up to her side and whispered into her ears,passing along info on what had just happened. All was quiet for a few moments.

"HE DID WHAT?!?! BRING HIM BEFORE ME, NOW!""

She shouted in the royal Canterlot voice. Oh she was furious, her mane nearly flowing like fire now as she had found out what had transpired in the south garden that early evening. Soon the  night guard brought the still battered and injured unicorn. He was half way bandaged up since he was just drug out of his hospital room in the medical wing. They tossed him in front of Luna as she sat there on the throne, very unhappy with what had just happened.

"So then, dear nephew...you decided to cause more trouble again did you?"

Blueblood struggled to his hooves and glared up at Luna.

"The beast started it all! I was trying to get a commoner punished for spilling soup on me, and then he had to go an mess things up! I demand that he be punished and put in the jails to rot!"

Luna was ready to explode, in fact that is what happened.

"THAT IS NOT THE POINT BLUEBLOOD! Do you know the severity of your crimes this evening?! You not only attacked someone me and Celestia hold very dear to our hearts, but you attacked her so that he would get in your way?! You could have really hurt them both, you bastard! Not to mention attacking one of the rulers of Equestria is grounds for treason and betrayal! You have really fucked up this time nephew. And there isn't any amount of begging you can do to save your sorry ass."

Blueblood finally realized what was going on, he did indeed start begging and pleading to Luna for forgiveness. saying his usual lines over and over. But Luna wasn't having any of it. She was going to do something Even Celestia wouldn't have done. This was HER throne for the evening.

"Blueblood, as punishment for your crimes. I here by strip you of your nobility and title of 'prince', and retain all your assets and estates. And hand them over to Zikel for compensation on the crime against him. You will also be exiled to the outer lands of Equestria. And for the record Blueblood, you were always such a pompous and arrogant stallion. And somewhere along the line, a mistake like you came into this world. How I pity your parents."

"You can't do this Luna, I am Prince Blueblood! I will not be treated this way!"

He said as he tried to jump at her, but the night guards grabbed him and held him down. Luna got up from her throne and walked over to him, looking down at him with a dark glare

"Not anymore Blueblood...you are nothing now. But a pathetic, lowly, hornless unicorn who has nothing. Fitting is it not?""

She looks over to her guards, a dark smirk on her face

"Gentlecolts, do see that this lowly commoner is escorted out of Canterlot and away from the other cities.And make sure he never comes crawling back again."

They both smile wickedly and chuckle

"With pleasure princess Luna...with pleasure." They began to drag him off, kicking and screaming out random nonsense as he was taken away

"And with that, Night Court is done. You are all dismissed for the night."

She said to her remaining guards, they smile and bow to her, taking their leave to go and find their posts or change shifts with the others. Luna walked down the hall with a bit of spring in her step. It felt good to be rid of that useless nephew of theirs now.

"I wonder if Zikel ever made it here...I suppose it's time I got and see!"

She said as she picked up in a trot.

--Royal Bath--

As Zikel walked in behind Celestia, his eyes widened at how...spacious and luxurious this bath was. three fountains that had unicorns with water pouring from their horns, the tub itself was in-ground and trimmed with gold. The tiles were marble and shinny. Zikel usually just finds himself a lake outside of the city he lived in back in his world, but this...this was just to much to take in all at once. Celestia looked back at his face and couldn't help but giggle. She removed her regalia and placed it on the counter top. walking over to Zikel and lightly dragging him by his sleeve towards the bath with her magic

"Come on now Zikel, strip!"

"Uuuh well maybe I should just-"

"Nope!"

She said as she would begin to undo all his buckles and straps of his outfit, tossing off his clothing to the side, as she did this, she eyes his form, she was smiling widely until she came across the large burn mark that covered his back, she felt her heart sink a bit. Zikel sighed gently as she saw his wound.

"That's why I didn't want to take a bath in the first place Tia...I didn't want you to see the damage..."

She came up to him and lightly wrapped her hooves around him from behind, snuggling into him and lightly placing ehr horn against the wound, using her magic to heal it up as best as she could. There was a large scar there after she had done so. she then pressed against him more

"I am sorry this happened Zikel...if it hadn't been for me-"

"Stop right there Tia, this isn't your fault, nor do I blame you for it. I was the one that provoked him. Clearly he didn't find being brought down with words wasn't to his liking. So I paid the price for my carelessness. So don't you dare feel sorry for me. It was my mistake. Now then, smile for me Tia. After all, it is bath time for me and you."

She did indeed smile after his reassuring words, she then leaped into the bath, splashing the water when she did. Zikel followed in, his body sinking into the hot water. He lets out a sigh of delight as he experiences his first hot bath ever. It was very nice..too nice in fact. Celestia came up behind him and began to play with his hair gently. She thought his hair was absolutely lovely. So long and straight, and it rested behind his horns so neatly

"Zikel...I never had the chance to say this. But you have such lovely long hair. I have never seen it on a dragon before, nor have I seen it so white."

He chuckled lightly.

"Would you believe it was as black as the shadows I cast? It seemed as I changed form when I came,My skin was pale andi my hair was raven black. Seems things have reversed. But you are very kind in saying this Tia. Normally I just keep it hid in my hood. But as I have been living here in Ponyville, I have had less of a reason to hide my face everyday. Just like these runes on my body that I carved into my flesh, they were solid black, and now they are...a bright blue. I suppose I will never fully understand why I was brought here. But now I am happier than ever."

"And I am happy that you are happy Zikel. Would you...mind terribly if I brushed your hair for you?"

Zikel blushed at the mention of his hair being brushed, and by her to boot.

"I mean, if you really want to Tia, feel free. It's...a little embarrassing though..never really had anyone brush my hair before...nor do I barely even do so."

She lets out a snort and giggles lightly.

"I swear...you males are all the same. Always a little embarrassed when somepony wants to pamper you."

She levitated a brush over to them and began running it through his hair repeatedly,making sure to get every single strand. he didn't want to admit it, but it really did feel nice. his wings twitched a bit as a shudder ran down his spine

"Its not that Tia..well that's not the only reason anyways. I am just not used to being pampered period. You know what kind of life I grew up with. So all this...its just so unusual for me."

"I know this Zikel. But you need to loosen up a little and enjoy it, this isn't like your world. you don't have to look over your shoulder...well, not as much anyways. And besides, you are with me now. So relax you silly dragon."

Zikel would sigh and begins to let his body become less tense, he leans a bit more, Tia letting him rest against her front while she brushes his hair. She was right...things could finally become less stressful when he was here with her. Zikel's ears picked up the sound of hooves making their way into the bathroom, Celestia giggling lightly

"Looks like she found us Zikel.."

Zikel shifts his eyes a bit then looks at Celestia, then the doorway

"Oooh boy...something tells me there is going to be trouble Tia..."

And sure enough, it was Luna, coming in with wide eyes as she saw what was going on. Celestia could only giggle at the sheepish smile Zikel was giving Luna. She narrows her eyes at both him and her.

"So you both decided on bath time, and didn't bother to come find me? For shame dear sister, for shame."

She said with a wicked grin, placing her own regalia on the counter next to Celestia's and jumps into the water, splashing both him and her sister, his hair falling into his face, he crosses his arms, not amused. Tia's hard work, wasted. Celestia let out a whine.

"Luluuuu...I was brushing his hair and now you ruined it!"

She said with puffed up cheeks and a slight glare. Luna giggled to herself and splashed Celestia a bit

"That's what you get for not inviting me!"

"Now ladies....let;s all calm down and-"

He is suddenly met with a small wave of water that washed over him completely, then meeting its target,which was Luna.

"Oh you will pay for that dear sister."

Suddenly it was an all out water war between the two, Zikel just sat on the other side of the bath, lowering himself more into the water and just watching them with narrowed eyes, blowing bubbles in the water. After about a few more minutes of that, everything died down and they spent the reason of the bath washing and scrubbing him down, Zikel tried to return the favor, but they wouldn't sit still long enough, nor did they want to stop washing him. After the bath, Zikel slips into his boxers and hangs his clothing on the chair in the chambers he was staying in, the bed was large and had dark blue pillows and blankets, the room itself was white marble with gold trimming. He walked over to the bed and fell face first into it's softness. He lets out a muffles sigh.

"I could never get used to this kind of...luxury life. I am a rogue and always will be. but I admit, my evening with the girls was nice..I enjoyed it."

Zikel heard the door open and heard hooves running in, sure enough, the two sisters leaped onto the bed and snuggled up close to him. Zikel smiled lightly and layed on his back, pulling the blanket over the three of them and wraps them in each of his arms, they get in close and rest their forearm over his torso and smile warmly.

"Good night Zikel..."

They both said

"Good night girls...sweet dreams to you both."

And with that, they fall into a deep slumber.

Act 12: Rollin' In The Bits And Summoned To The Crystal Empire

Zikel slowly opened his eyes, they met the shinny white ceiling over him. He couldn't help but notice that his right arm was lacking a princess in it. He laughed lightly

"Right, Tia has to raise the sun...wonder how long it took her to prey herself away from me."

He looked over at Luna who was still sleeping soundly in his left arm, a smile on her face as she was fully pressed against him. He finally realized where his hand had been resting while she had been resting his his arm, it was soft and supple, and he had the urge to squeeze. Blushing a bit as he quickly removed his hand from her, she suddenly whispers to him

"Awwww, that felt nice to..."

Zikel flinched a bit as he saw the now sultry stare coming from Luna, he looks away from her and chuckles lightly.

"How long....did you know?"

"Oh I knew from earlier this morning mister grabby hands. You were enjoying yourself as you slept, that's for sure."

He sighed and facepalmed.

"Great, I fondle rears of royalty mares in my sleep now. I am sure Tia got the same treatment then?"

"Oh yes she did, we honestly thought you were just faking sleep to get naughty with us. But you wouldn't budge. Not that we were complaining though...you do have the most wonderful hands..."

"Yes....you made that perfectly clear when I turned you two into a pile of goo on the tables."

He said as he stuck his tongue out playfully at her, she did the same. They laid there for a little while longer, just enjoying each others warmth and company. They finally got up and got dressed, Luna looked over to him with a smirk.

"So...you won't ever be getting any trouble from Blueblood again Zikel. I made sure of that. In fact, no one will."

He laughed and got his pants and shirt on, walking over to his mage robe and sliding it on.

"What did you do lulu? Lock him up in the deepest darkest cell you have for about a few months?"

"No, I stripped him of his nobility and title, exiled him and gave you all of his assets and estates as compensation for the damage he inflicted on you."

She said that so..casually. Zikel nearly fell face first onto the floor, looking over at Luna

"You did WHAT?! Lulu, once Tia finds out about this, she is going to-"

He was cut off by a hoof to his lips.

"She already knows Zikel, she was crossed with me at first. But understood the severity of his crime after I told her everything when her mind was in its right state. She was happy I made the decision. Something that she could never do."

"As./...as long as Tia is fine with it. So...what am I looking at here?"

"Well, if I remember correctly, you now own his bank account, which currently holds twenty million bits, along with all the estates across the land he lived in. All in all, you are now one wealthy dragon, Zikel. And also, you will be given his title as well...Prince Zikel..I like that.."

"Nope! I will not be taking that title. Not no way, not no how! And I will not be living a flashy life. Its not for me Lulu..."

"But Zikel just think about it. A prince title and all the riches you could want. Doesn't that sound wonderful to you?"

"Lulu, you know I am not like that..nor do I want to be. Rogues and thieves may seem like they want a never ending flow of funds. but to be honest, we steal from others who have more than enough money to spare. Not people who struggle."

"But Zikel, with that title, you will be able to come and go as you please. The guards will not be able to stop you and they won't question your business."

He sighed and looked over at her. That did sound pretty cool, he could come visit with Tia and Lulu whenever he wanted,and not to mention feel like he was on more equal ground with them.

"Alright Lulu...I will accept the title, on one condition. Gather up all your guards and staff. Make them SWEAR this doesn't leave outside the castle. I do not want that kind of attention? Do you promise to do that? Please Lulu."

She understood full well of how he felt, she nodded to him with a smile, hugging him around his neck.

"I can do that Zikel. I will swear them all to keep it within the castle walls and among themselves. I just know though...me and Tia will be absolutely happy now, knowing you can come see us anytime."

"And I am happy about that as well. Also Lulu, the families that have cases against Blueblood of which he brought suffering upon. Give them back the funds that was taken from them. and give the rest to charities. I will take five million for myself. Give the other fifteen million back to the public. But no rich ponies. And as for telling them who did such a wonderful thing. Tell them it was the "Living Shadow" Since you and Tia are the only ones who know that name. As for the estates, get them sold and have the funds deposited into my account. How knows, I may have the need for the money. Call it a....potential war chest for safe keeping that no one knows about. Yeah, that will work."

Luna was stunned at what he had told her to do with three quarters of his new found wealth. Her heart was now beating with happiness and stronger affection for him. This dragon was so very sweet and generous, that he would want to bring back a little bit of happiness to all the ponies that Blueblood has wronged, and the rest for charities?!

"Zikel...you truly are an amazing dragon. Your kindness and compassion knows no bounds, yet you become a monster in order to do what needs to be done in order to defend those you care about. How do you maintain such an equal balance within your mind and heart?"

He chuckles lightly as he gets the last strap of his robe buckled and tightened, he walks over to Luna and lightly places a hand under her chin, locking eyes with her.

"Its really simple actually Lulu. I do what needs to be done that others don't have the strength to do. And yet I don't fault them for it either. That doesn't make them a coward. Some just can't maintain a balance of...peace and brutality. Something my father always talked about. I always thought it was just nonsense, but mow I see what he meant."

Luna couldn't help but smile widely as he talked about his father in such high regard. She nuzzled into his hand happily

"When I allowed your friends and family to come see you through a few dream gates. I saw your mother and father. They looked like quite the nice couple. And I can see where you got your handsomeness from. Your father looked quite good for his age. And your mother....by the moon, she was beautiful.."

"Thank you for saying so Lulu. I am just glad they are watching over me, and not hurting anymore."

He was suddenly brought to the realization of one thing. His stomach rumbled loudly, it was breakfast time. Luna giggled lightly and motioned him to follow her.

"Come on Prince Zikel, breakfast awaits. he stands there with his arms crossed and arches a brow

"Luluuuuu?"

"I am sorry Zikel...but it just sounds so...awe inspiring! Like a warrior prince who cares for his people so very much! It makes me want to just..."

She lets out the most adorable little squeal and giggle. Tia was right...she was worse. He shook his head and laughed lightly

"Tia was right about you Lulu. You are like a little girl who dreams about noble princes who put themselves second to everyone else, to fight any monster that plagues the land. Its actually pretty cute."

She blushes fiercely and shakes her head

"H-hush you..."

She said as she walked out the room, Zikel following. They made it down to the dinning hall, as Zikel walked in, he saw the table not only lined with food, but meat! Bacon and sausage! His mouth was watering, his long thick tongue running over his lips as he eyes it like a predator cornering his prey, his tail swaying behind him rapidly. little did he know, the princesses were starring at him and trying not to laugh.

"good thing I had out gryphon chef whip this up for you Zikel...so long as you don't eat ponies though..."

"Oh no, no pony flesh for me...but everything else..beef, pork, chicken...its my favorite." He looked over to see Tia and Lulu suddenly bursting out into laughter.

"Looks like we know the way to his heart then, don't we Lulu?"

"Indeed we do Tia. We must keep this information stored..."

Zikel wasted no time in piling his plate high with the meat and a few fruits, he tore through the food with gusto, some how not making a mess, but tearing up the meat like he hadn't eaten in days. The two sister's just looked at one another in shock, but started giggling with their hooves over their mouths. Zikel didn't care he was eating with royalty, all he cared about was getting his tummy full.

"So Tia..I talked with Zikel about the situations this morning."

"Ah,please tell what he said then dear sister."

After finding out how Zikel had wanted things arranged and done, Celestia's heart couldn't help but do the same thing that Luna's had done for him. She wanted to leap from her spot at the large table and pounce him and shower him with kisses. Such a kind and giving dragon. Celestia felt her love for the dragon grow ever more and more, but she held it in.

"Very well Zikel, your conditions will be met regarding the title. And we will begin distribution of the funds back to those who lost it against Blueblood. And we will also make sure that charities around the land receive a fair share as well."

"Thank you Tia, If I can give the abundance of fortune I received, then I will do so. It will equal out the balance I have so...terribly unbalanced in my life."

A guard comes into the dinning hall, approaching Celestia and lowering himself into a bow.

"Your majesty. princess Cadence is requesting that the Elements Of Harmony make their way to the Crystal Empire right away."

"Very well, I shall write a letter to princess Twilight at once. Thank you."

"Also, she is requesting the presence of someone named...Zikel."

Zikel heard his name and lifted his head up from eating. Swallowing his food and arched a brow.

"What could she possibly need me for?"

"Very well, thank you again.You are dismissed"

The guard bowed again and ran off, going to do his guard duty and all that.

"Uuuh...you ladies wanna fill me in?"

Act 13: A Returning Threat Part 1

It was late in the night, the train car that held Twilight, her friends and Zikel was quiet. Everypony was sleeping, save for Zikel himself. He was busy staring out the window as the rode pass everything at maximum speed. For being his first train ride, he wasn't very excited. Then again, he has learned to just accept things in this world as they are. He was suddenly brought out of his thoughts by the sound of somepony clearing their throat quietly. Zikel shifted his gaze to see Twilight looking over at him curiously. Zikel nods to her in acknowledgment and returns his gaze out the window. She makes her way over to him and climbs up on the seat next to him, nuzzling into his arms gently.

"Are you alright Zikel? You haven't even been to sleep yet have you?"

Zikel shook his head, looking back to her and reaching up, running his claws through her mane gently

"No Twi...I have been able to sleep. I feel that when we get to..wherever this place is, something is waiting to strike. And my hunches are usually correct. As much as I do not want to have anything happen of course..I don't know."

"Don't worry Zikel, Cadence has asked us and our friends to come and help them with whatever is going on. And I know with you there, everything will be fine. The girls think so to."

"Most of you do anyways. Rainbow Dash still hates me for some reason. What does she even have against me?"

Twilight looked over at the sleeping pegasus then back at him.

"Zikel...I am going to tell you something about her that may explain why she is the way she is around you. We have dragons here as you know. But Spike is still just a baby. So Rainbow Dash has no problem getting along with him. But her family was killed by a full adult dragon. In the most grotesque way. She has been on her own since then,and carries a strong hatred for dragons other than Spike.I guess when she looks at you. She sees the creature who took her family away from her."

Zikel's hands form into fists, trying to keep himself quiet.

"She hates me because some other monster stole her family away? What right does she have to judge me then? Its not like I wanted this form when I came here. The one that killed her family is gone. So she decided to take it out on me. Geez, what a selfish little bitch. Blaming me for something I didn't do. She doesn't know a damn thing about me. I lost my parents to soldiers who invaded my home as a child..I watched my parents burn alive. Telling me there was nothing that could be done, and they forced me to leave their side."

He began shaking slightly with anger, clasping his hands together and baring his sharp teeth.

"She has no right...no right whatsoever to judge me. She can hate me all she wants to. But the fact that she blames me for the loss nof her parents...she can go fuck herself for all I care. Grow up and move on Rainbow Dash...I had to."

Little did he and Twilight know, Rainbow Dash heard everything he had just said, her eyes wide and tears quietly flowing down her face. He had her pegged. That is exactly what she was doing to him. Blaming him for something another creature did. And at the same time, the venom he spat towards her made her heart ache. She laid there, continuing to cry quietly. Twilight was shocked at how he talked about her friend, but understood his anger towards her.

"Zikel...please calm down...you get rather scary when you get like this..."

Zikel was about to let out a low growl when he opened his eyes and caught himself. Letting out a soft sigh.

"I am alright Twi. I know now that....she will never accept me because she can't move on. Why should I care for her when she clearly will never care for me? I know you want me to be friends with all of your friends. But that is never going to happen. When I first saw Rainbow Dash. I thought 'Well, she actually looks pretty cool.' Then we she finally saw me...well I think you remember what happened. But like I said, things will never change."

Twilight closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around him lovingly, crawling into his lap and snuggling close. Zikel in turn wraps his arms around the alicorn and nuzzles into her as well.

"Thank you Twi...for coming to check on me. You are too sweet to me,. You, Tia and Lulu...you three are the closest friends I have in this world...I will not let anypony or anything take you from me...."

"Nor will I allow you to be taken from me as well Zikel. The time we spent together while you stayed. I will treasure it forever."

They stayed like that for a long time, eventually they both feel asleep with Twilight resting in his arms. The rest of the train ride of quiet as they all slept. Early morning came as the train made it to the Crystal Empire, the sun barely rising up and hitting the large crystal castle.

"Oh wow...this place is...beautiful..."

Zikel's eyes widened as he looked around the whole kingdom, the crystals that made up the buildings, the streets, everything shone brightly as the sun rose. He spun around to get a full view of all he could see as he walked with Twilight and her friends. Twilight couldn't help but giggle at his reaction

"I remember the first time I saw it as well. Was the most gorgeous place I had ever been to, And when we defeated King Sombra and saved the Crystal Heart, it became even more lovely"

Zikel nodded and listened as they walked along. The other girls talking about their own thing, all except for Rainbow Dash..she was rather quiet. But Zikel didn't pay any mind to her silence. They soon came across the castle, going inside. Zikel noticed one thing for sure...something wasn't right here. There we slipping past guards who just nodded to them and didn't stop him. Zikel looked down at Twilight.

"Twi....that feeling I told you about...it just got stronger. Be on guard.."

They walked into the throne room, there waiting for them was Cadence and Shinning Armor. Zikel was about to test out something, first watching Cadence and Twilight. They usually did this silly little dance each time they saw each other, but all they got was.

"Good to have you here with us Twilight, I am glad the letter may it to you quickly."

Red flags were already going off in his head, he played along with it for awhile and bowed his head in greeting to Cadence, she smiled back to him and bowed as well

"Ah, a dragon with manners. And who might you be good sir?"

That was enough for Zikel, this had bad situation written all over it. As Zikel came up from his bow, he grabbed his dagger from behind and used his shadow step to quickly get to the princess. His blade right up against her neck and his eyes flaring a fierce glare, The girls gasped in shock as he placed his blade against the throat of the crystal princess, Shinning Armor moving in to defend his wife, But Zikel held his other hand up to stop the charging stallion.

"Who are you?"

Zikel asked in a dark tone, his dagger threatening to slice through the flesh of it's target. Cadence shifted her eyes and glared at him.

"Iam the Crystal Princess, Mia Amore Cadenza, lower your weapon!"

"Wrong answer."

He said as he pressed his dagger harder against the flesh

"Who are you?"

"Zikel, stop this now! What has gotten into you?!"

"Be quiet Twi. I will ask once more. If you cannot answer me truthfully, I will spill your blood here and now."

"I am the crystal princess, I swear!"

"If that is the case, then what is the nickname that she knows me by from her last visit hmmm?"

She did not answer, only to glare at him and suddenly lung at him with all her might. he falls back as she pushes him down and pins him to the ground. His dagger still pined to her neck

"Perceptive one aren't you? This kingdom is ours now...you ponies meddled in out last attack, you won't in this one. The queen has already set her plans in motion,and is dealing with the princess as we speak."

It hit them all at once, even Shinning Armor, their eyes widening as they figured out was exactly what was going on

"Oh no...not again...not again!"

Twilight yelled and looked to her brother

"Shinning! We need to gather the guard and-"

Suddenly the room was filled with guards, but turned into something else.black insect like creatures that had the blue eyes and hard and smooth outer shells that seemed to protect there bodies. Zikel kicked the one that had him pinned down off his body and jumped back up. Shinning and Zikel made their way over to the girls and made sure that they kept an eye on each other.

"This is bad...this is so very bad..."

Twilight said as the changelings came closer

"Twilight...get you and your friends and brother out of here. You need to go and find Cadence. She could be in absolute danger right now."

"Are ya serious?! We can't leave you here by yerself to deal with these vermin!"

Applejack said to him in a concerned tone.

"She is right, darling! You are a strong dragon, but this many all at once?!"

"There is no time to debate this! Get going, all of you!"

He said as a changeling tries to make a swipe at him, but he dodges and shoves his blade right through it's skull hard enough to break through the natural armor it had. Twilight was hesitant to leave her friend behind, fighting off all these changelings by himself wasn't going to be an easy feat, but she reluctantly nodded and teleported all her friends out of the room. leaving him with a room half full of changelings.

"Alright boys. Let show these oversized bugs what we can do..."

He said splits himself off into five other copies, each drawing their own blades as well and taking the same stance he did.

"Cut them down...all of them."

Him and his copies shot forth, beginning the slaughter that would most definitely be needing a cleaning team in the throne room after all this was done and over with. The battle was grotesque, body parts of changelings flying all over the place as Zikel and his shadow copies moved about the room with great speed, the sun hadn't started shinning through the windows quite yet, so the shadows he could find were of great use to him and his copies, flying through them like they were portals to each side of the room. The changelings made a big mistake attacking in here, that's for sure. But no matter how many of their comrades fell, they just kept attacking. Zikel wasn't getting off scott free either. He had endured some cuts to his arms, legs, back and chest. a few bites here and there. There was just too many of them for him to not have been hurt.It all came down to one more changeling, who know that they were beaten and tried to make a run for it. But Zikel was a bit more quicker than him and tackles the creature to the ground, shoving his blade into the changelings left forearm, it lets out a hiss of pain as he did, glaring at him

"Since you are the last one here. You are going to tell me were I can find this queen of yours..."

"N-never...I will never tell you, beast..."

Zikel grins wickedly and took his blade out, shoving it into a fresh spot, the changeling letting out another cry of pain.

"You know, I could always add more holes to your body than you already have...though I am not sure the next few will be good enough for your health. Now tell me where she is holding Cadence. Or I will end your existence VERY slowly."

He said as he takes the blade out and stabs the changeling multiple times,slow and deep thrusts into the creature's limbs

"One here....another here...oh, an we can't forget about here..."

Zikel continued to torture the creature, eventually he broke down and started talking. Shaking in fear at Zikel.

"S-she is b-being held...i-in the lower secret prison cells below the....c-castle. The queen has made her new lair down there....please...I am telling the truth...Please..."

"I believe you..."

The changeling lets out a sigh of relief.

"....but that doesn't mean, I have to let you live..."

Before the changeling could scream, Zikel sliced his throat with one swift motion, its last words were this.

"You...are a monster...."

"I have to be...for those I care about. You brought this on yourselves, you and your queen."

As Zikel got up from his position, he began walking away and out of the throne room, heading to where he was told she was being held.

"Cadence...I know you are still alive...hang in there. The shadows will be your savior this time."

He said as he made his way out.

Act 14: A Returning Threat Part 2

Zikel soon meets up with the girls and Shinning after the bloody battle he had endured, it would seem that they were having their own fight as well with all the changelings that were coming for them. Zikel quickly made it to Twilight's side just in time to knock back a changeling that was attacking her from behind. She and the others saw what kind of shape he was in, they weren't all too happy.

Zikel..what happen to you?!"

"It doesn't matter right now Twi, you can chew me out all you want to later!

He then looked over to Shinning Armor, who was casting protection spells to keep the enemy at bay.

"You there, where are your secret cells in the prison under your castle?!"

"Why do you need to know? I don't even know who you are and you expect me to tell you things that need to be kept secret?!"

"Shinning, please tell him! He can be trusted...I promise"

Pleaded his sister, continuing to fight off the changelings that bombarded them, Shinning looked between him and her, then to him again.

"If Twily trusts you, then I trust you as well bud. Went you go back to the castle, hang a right and go down into the prison blocks, then at the far end of the hall, there is a wall, hit the very middle block of it and it will open and take you where you need to go."

"Thank you, and don't worry. I will bring your wife back to you, I promise. No one is going to lose their loved ones today...."

Zikel ran off towards where he was told to go before anyone could stop him,Twilight was about to run after him but was stopped by two changelings.

"Be careful Zikel...please."

--Prison, Under The Crystal Castle--

Zikel walked through the dimly lit halls of the prison, this worked out well for him, more than enough darkness to take out enemies should he needed to. He came across multiple cells full of real guards. He releases them by opening a shadow portal through the bars so that they could get out.

"They need your help up there everyone. Make sure to show no mercy to these bastards. keep the citizens safe and make sure that your commander and the mares he is with are aided in the struggle above. Good luck to you soldiers."

Without a word, they nodded and ran up and out of the prison, determined to take back their empire for the princess and their citizens. Zikel did this for as many full cells as he could find. eventually coming to the wall that Shinning had told him about. He presses the center stone, and just like that, the wall spun open and lead into a more darker corridor.

--Chrysalis' Lair--

Screams of pain and cries rung through out the walls as Cadence was being tortured, cuts and bruises covered the poor mare as she hung against the wall in chains, tears flowing down her face as a tall and slender changeling with a long mane and a large jagged horn watched as two of the lower changelings dealt out pain to her. She laughed wickedly as she enjoyed the show

"Mmm yesssss...scream, cry you pathetic pony...this is what happens when you foil my plans. You and that damn unicorn should have just stayed out of my way...and now you will pay the price for it. And when I am done with you. I will feed off of this kingdom's endless supply of love forever.And me and my children will flourish and soon, take over Equestria for all time!"

Cadence looks to her with a defiant glare, tears still streaming down her face.

"You will not succeed Chrysalis, the elements have come to stop you. And Twilight if a full alicorn now. She will have more than enough power to stop you..."

She laughed again.

"Oh we already know she is here, my changelings have already made sure she won't be coming down here..at all."

She then brought a hoof under Cadence's chin,locking eyes with her.

"And to make you pay for what you and those brats did...I am order your replacement to murder your beloved husband..."

"No, anything but that, please!!"

Fresh tears began to flow from her eyes again. As one of the changelings was about to strike her again, he suddenly vanishes into the floor, as did the other. Chrysalis looked around, seeing all of her changelings vanishing into the ground.

"What is going on here?! Who is doing this?!"

Suddenly the very same changelings that had disappeared fall from the ceiling, but each with a solid black chain wrapped around their necks, the drop instantly snapping their necks, or the others struggling to breathe, swinging back and forth, kicking their legs and convulsing, choking sounds and sickening snaps echoed through the room

"Today...you aren't killing anyone..."

Said a deep dark gravelly voice, a pair of glowing eyes emerged from the darkness, Zikel walked into the dim light, his eyes glared and full of anger and his hair which was normally combed back neatly was covering his face, but still stayed parted in the middle, carrying a changeling's head in his hand and tossing it at Chrysalis' hooves, the head blinking a few times before going still.

"Your army is going to die Chrysalis. And so will you if you don't give up now. I will kill more of your children if I have to. You have caused more suffering than you should have. And now...I will end it,should you choose to fight me."

Chrysalis looked down at the head of one of her children, and the others that were now dead from either strangulation or broken necks. She finally got a good look at Zikel, and she knew that she was in trouble. She stood her ground though.

"Y-you murdered my children?! How dare you! This doesn't even concern you dragon!"

Cadence's ears perk up as she heard that familiar voice...and the word 'dragon'. She gives a weak smile and calls out his name

"Zikel...you came...I knew I made the right call to have you come along..."

"I am here now Cadence....don't worry. The queen here will indeed be paying for her crimes."

"You will be dead long before you can do anything! I will avenge my children if its the last thing I do!"

She said as she shot a bolt of magic in his direction, but he vanishes quickly into the shadows again,his voice coming from all directions now.

"Poor little Chrysalis, so defenseless against the power of darkness, yet the evil queen who rose an army of changelings, can't handle one little shadowmancer. Who is the pathetic one now huh? You are weak...and can't survive on your own without leeching off others...no wonder you are hated by everypony...you are outcasts...untouchables...garbage.."

"Shut up! You know nothing about us. We don't care what you have to say. We can't help the way we are. So we do what we must to survive!"

She said as she began firing magic in all directions now, Cadence couldn't help but smirk at how she was losing control

"You won't catch him Chrysalis...you are in his world now. And because you made this place so ill lit. You made this his playground..."

"Shut up! Or I will kill you now!"

Suddenly five strands of chains comes down from the ceiling and wraps around her limps and neck, hoisting her into the air and spread out,the chains pulling hard at their captives.

As I said, you won't be killing anyone today. But I may just have to go and kill more changelings myself, and have you stay here and listen to the cries of your children. And maybe even after that. I will kill you myself and show your dismembered head to your children...that will break them completely..."

"Y-you wouldn't...you would kill me in front of them and all your friends..."

Zikel's eyes dart up to hers

'tell that to the bloody corpses of your children i left in the throne room,and the ones we have hanging here with you.'

'you vile brute...you cold blooded monster!'

she said as tears began to pour from her eyes

'Leave my children alone! Please! We will leave and never bother anypony every again!"

'How can I be sure that you are telling me the truth, Chrysalis? You have attacked before. And i don't think we can risk another with you and your army..."

He said as he drew his blade, the chains lowering down and having her hang in front of him.he drag his blade across her body, the edge threatening to pierce her outer shell.

"N-no...I promise..please...we won't do this again...'

He looked to Cadence, who had a look of fear on her face from what was going on in front of her, but nodded to him

'just let her go...this time Zikel....if she does do this again, I will let you do what you wish to her."

Zikel nodded and chuckled darkly

'Looks like the crystal princess is so kind hearted, even after what you did to her, to let you go..."

Chrysalis shook in fear as his dagger drew closer to her neck

"...but I am going to leave you something to remind you....that I will be coming for you should you do this again."

He suddenly dug his blade into her shell and her flesh, beginning to carve in his shadowmancing mark slowly and roughly, she lets out screams and cries of pain as he did this. Leaving a bleeding wound that she could never recover from. tears coming down her cheeks again.

'now...get the fuck out of my sight, and out of this kingdom...and take your children with you... ALL of them."

She nodded quickly, Zikel grabbed her by the neck and squeezed where he had cut her, the chains vanishing around her. He throws her towards the exit roughly, and she wastes no time in leaving, and as she does, her army follows as she had given the command to retreat. The Crytal Empire only left with a few corpses to clean up. Zikel looked at his dagger, covered in Changeling blood, he swings it through the air to clean it off.

"Filthy..."

He looks over at the still chained up Cadence who still had to look of fear in her eyes. Zikel sheathed his blade and walked over to her. he carefully unchained her and caught her in his arms before she could fall. She held onto him weakly and looked up into his eyes, the ones she had saw were gone,and now back to that kind and gentle gaze he had always had

"Zikel...thank you so much for coming...if you hadn't...things would have been much worse.."

"I know Cadence..and I am sorry you had to see me like that. It is true what she said, I am a monster...but only because I choose to be for my loved ones who I don't want to see suffer at the hands of other monsters. That includes you, Cadence."

She looked up at him with watery eyes, burying her face into his chest and beginning to sob quietly. He nods, carrying her out of the dark place,and to the world of the light. To her husbands side and to her people again.

Act 15: Unwanted Attention

Zikel walked out of the lower cells and into the main block, carrying Cadence in his arms. She continued to hold onto him. Shaking from all that just happened. Zikel looked down at her with a weak smile. He was starting to get a bit dizzy, as his had injuries he was keeping hidden from Cadence, and he was losing quite a bit of blood. But once he got out into the light, All would be seen. But for her sake, he remained strong.

"Hey..don't worry. All is well now. She is gone, and you are on your way back to your husband and kingdom."

She simply nodded and remained quiet. As they came to the surface, Zikel had lost more blood, it trailed behind him all the way from the prison to the stairs that lead down. When he got there, Shinning Armor, Twilight, and the others were waiting. They ran over as he laiid Cadence to the ground gently. He smiled again and looked to Shinning.

"She needs medical attention fast, get her to it."

He nodded and ordered the guard to take her to the medical wing, he followed soon after. zikel slowly began to walk away from the group, the sound of blood splattering on the ground as he did. This got Twilight's and everyone's attention. The look of horror on their faces as they turned to see Zikel covered in bite marks, gashes and all sorts of injuries. They ran over to him, crowding around him to help him as he collapsed to his knees. His vision blurred, and sound around him became muffled

"Zikel...hang...there! Somepony....now...bleeding out!"

Was all he could hear from Twilight. He slowly closes his eyes as everything fades around him. He opens his eyes quickly to find himself staring up at a white ceiling and laying in a rather warm and soft bed, looking down and seeing he was covered in bandages. He tries to sit up but grunts in pain, grabbing at his side. He heard a slight moan, he looked to his left to see Twilight laying half way on the bed next to him. He couldn't help but smile to her and reach over, petting her gently.

"Your bedside manner leaves much to be desired Twi."

He said with a weak smile, he then lays back down and sighs. Being confined to this bed with bandages wasn't his idea of a good time, thats for sure. As he laid there, memories of what happened come rushing back to him, the battle between those many changelings, Chrysalis, and returning the princess to her people. He chuckles to himself.

"Sure hope that Cadence is alright."

Zikel looked over as he heard the door open, a pony in a nurse cap and a rather...shiney coat and mane comes in with a tray, though she nearly drops it when she sees that Zikel was now awake. She quickly sets it to the side on a counter and runs to his side.

"Mister Zikel...you are awake!"

She said quietly but excitedly, so as to not disturb Twilight in he slumber. He nods to her in confirmation

"yes ma'am. How long have I been out?"

"J-just over a day and a half...you lost a lot of blood, you had us very very worried. Especially princess Twilight...she hasn't left your bedside since we brought you in here."

""Well, she is a good friend of mine. And I really do appreciate her staying with me."

"Princess Cadence also came by a few times to check on you."

"She is already up and moving around? Well,she is an alicorn, i guess they heal faster."

Zikel heard another set of hooves come closer to the door, they belonged to Shinning Armor, he peeked in, noticing Zikel was awake and approached him with a serious look at first, but then a smile comes across hiss face.

"I must thank you personally Zikel. You saved my wife and brought her back to me. Nearly at the expense of your own life. Twilight wasn't kidding when she said that you were a selfless dragon. She wrote tome a few times about you. Saying you were one of the best friends she has ever made."

"I am not that special Shinning...I just don't want to lose what I had lost awhile back. People...well in this case, ponies I have gotten close to."

"I see. You have my sympathies Zikel. But...I can see you and Twily are extremely close. So can I ask you a favor?"

"And that favor would be?"

"Please look out for her. Even though she is princess now. As her big brother I still worry about her. She gets a thought in her head and runs with it sometimes. And she gets too over eager and stresses about the little things. Could you be there for her when she needs someone like you?"

"You have my word Shinning Armor. I will make sure she is well guarded. Though I am sure she will get tired of me eventually."

Zikel suddenly felt her stirring beside him, she slowly wakes up and opens her eyes to see her brother and Zikel talking, she suddenly gives a huge smile and wraps her forearms around Zikel, nuzzling into him gently.

"You are awake! I am so very glad!"

"Gah, easy Twi...I am still a little sore..but thank you for staying with me like you did. Your brother here said you stayed the whole time. Didn't know you had that kind of affection for me Twi. Are you falling for me?"

A massive blush came across her cheeks, she shook her head rapidly.

"D-dont be silly! I just see you as a close friend is all..!"

Zikel can't help but chuckle, as did Shinning Armor.

"Well Zikel,I leave her in your capable hands. Make sure she doesn't push herself to far or stresses about every little thing. Once you are able to stand and walk, Cadence would like to see you."

"Iam on it. You here that Twi? I am gonna be your other big brother."

She lets out a sigh of annoyance, but smiles and nuzzles him once more

"Well, considering Spike is like a baby brother to me, I suppose having another dragon as another big brother wouldn't be too bad."

Zikel smiles and ruffles her hair gently, just enjoying the affection that Twilight give him with her nuzzles and hugs.

"Where are the other girls? Off doing their own thing I am sure."

"Yeah, they are just out in the city. Though, Rainbow Dash did want to talk to you about something. Perhaps you should let her speak with you."

"Why should I? After the way she treated me."

"Please Zikel...let her say what she has to say. For me?"

He lets out a groan of annoyance, but nods.

"I will listen to her..just this once."

Twilight nodded and nuzzled closely into him.

"Thank you Zikel."

Zikel was finally discharged from the hospital a little while later, bandages off and wounds sealed. It would seem that Rarity took the liberty of mending his tattered robe for him, it looked brand new. She even added some light blue accents and tribal designs along the arms that resembled the marking on his forehead and arms. He was lead through the castle by two guards, the servants and other staff seemed to look at him with..big smiles and waved to him as he passed by. He would offer a wave back. They continued to walk until they came to the throne room, which had been cleaned up it seems. It would also seem that...the room had been filled up with citizens and guards alike, they all gasped as he entered, each with eyes of awe and shock, but began to cheer loudly as he approached Zikel was half way down the like until he turned on his heel.

"Nope!"

He said as he was about to run off.

"Zikel please wait!"

Shouted Cadence from her throne, the ponies quieted down as she spoke

"I know you don't like this kind of thing...but they all wanted to meet the hero who saved them from the changelings. Will you please stay and at least speak a few words? Please?"

Zikel debated on it, he then let out a sigh and simply gave a nod. He walked up to Cadence and looked to her.

"Only because you asked me Cadence."

She nodded to him. He turned around and looked at all the ponies staring at him.

"First off everyone, do not revere me as a hero. I was just protecting one of my friends who needed my help. Simply because she requested me to come. I did this for selfish reason, not to be a noble hero. I don't like that kind of attention. But, since you all gathered here.I suppose I can leave you with a few words of wisdom I got by. Should you choose to follow them or not is your decision. But I have always believed, that when someone you love is in danger. There is no such thing as crossing the line when it comes to doing so. I murdered in cold blood to make sure princess Cadence here would remain alive. Simply because I see her as a great friend and didn't want to lose her. Now, should you see me as a monster, that is fine. I don't expect gratitude from any of you. If you still see me as a savior,that's also fine. But should something like this happen again. I will return and repeat the process if I have to. That is all I have to say."

Zikel turned to Cadence, she hadt a look of shock at what he had just told them all. The room was quiet. He simply nodded to Cadence and began to walk down the red carpet, avoiding eye contact with any of the ponies. As he walked, they whispered and talked among one another. JHe was half way out of the room until a young colt stepped out in front of him. Zikel stopped and looked down at him. The colt smiled up at Zikel and spoke.

"What you did to the bad guys...it was really scary. But if it hadn't been for you. we would have all been in trouble. I want you to know that I see you as a hero, even though what you did was...not the best way."

Zikel lowered down and patted him on the head.

"Thanks little guy. But do not grow up to be like me. Grow up to be somepony who can help others by means of not taking lives. I have already gone to far, and cannot be redeemed."

Zikel stood back up and walked around the little pony. He exited the throne room and made his way outside. walking down the streets, every pony he ran into gave him a smile and a wave, but he simply walked on. Eventually taking flight and making his way to the outskirts of the city. Finding a large crystal and perching himself on top of it, crouching and resting on his hind legs, placing his hood over his head to shield himself of the sun as well as his scarf.

"Someone like you doesn't deserve to be in this world. You killed and mutilated the changelings without any regards for their lives. You are a cruel and dark monster Zikel. How long will it be before you lay your blade into one of your friends hmm?

The dark whispery voice spoke to him in his head

"Don't you even start...I may let you out during my battles, but you will not lay a hand on my friends. You got that?"

You know Zikel, should you lose control. I will be taking your body for myself, and everyone you know and love will be at MY mercy. You know this better than anyone, that shadowmancy is a corruptible magic depending upon the user's heart[. How long before something so bad happens and it shatters? Which will open room for me to move in."/i]

"I won't allow it.Now how about you go back into the dark corners of my mind where you belong?"

"As you wish, master."

Zikellowered his head, his dark side did have a point. But he wasn't going to dwell on it.

Act 16: Returning Home

It was four o'clock in the afternoon when Zikel and the girls finally met up at the train station to head back to Ponyville. They all said their goodbyes to Cadence and Shinning Armor. Zikel however, was quiet and kept to himself. He was the first onto the train and claiming his spot furtherst away from the group. Its not that he didn't want to be near them. But considering that he revealed everything that happened between him and the changelings, well...he didn't want to talk about it. His dark side's words haunted his mind over and over. He gazed out the window as the train started moving going into a far off memory from his childhood.

"Now remember my son, once you start studying this form of magic, there can be no turning back. Shadowmancy is alive and developes within a person. As if having another soul within your body. but one that is created through shadowmancy and becomes one with you as your skills develop. Its...a symbiotic relationship so to speak.

"I see...so if I remember correctly, it like one can't live without the other?"

"That's right Zikel. You must be the one to lead it along, otherwise it may get out of hand. But you my dear boy, have nothing to worry about. Your heart is strong, and your mind is sharp. You won't let it take you over. I have faith in you my son. And I know you will do your old man proud."

"Father, where did shadowmancy originate from?"

"Well Zikel, there is many origins that the form of magic came from. But the legend goes, that the first shadowmancer offered his body and soul to the shadows themselves, as long as he lived, they would bend to him, do as he wished, anything the caster could conjure in his mind, the shadows would will it. But when he died, he would have to return to them. And pass on to another shadowmancer. But since this style of magic has developed over time. We have found a way to...escape the rules of the old ways. Thus when we die, we can still move on. As will the one that manifests inside of you when you die."

"I see...then I will do my best to be the best shadowmancer ever father. You will see!"

"Thatta boy Zikel. I know you will be a powerful one. Even more so than me."

His memory is cut short do to someone poking at his arm, he comes out of his zone out to look over and see Rainbow Dash sitting across from him. He simply turned his head away from her.

"Ah, yes Twilight said you wanted to speak with me. What is it?"

"Well..I um..listen Zikel. I want to talk to you about why I have been so cold to you. I-"

"I know the whole story Rainbow Dash. But it didn't give you the right to blame me for something another creature did. It's not fair to me."

"I know...and I want to say I am really, really sorry for how I treated you. I know its not your fault. When you showed up, I instantly thought you were going to be trouble. But....it turns out you are a pretty okay guy, I just wanted you to know I take back everything I said...Please forgive me Zikel..."

He turns his head slightly to gaze at her.

"I accept your apology. But you will not get my forgiveness so easily. For you will never understand the feeling of losing those you love. Twice. Maybe in time, I will forgive you. But not now."

She frowns, but nods to him.

"Fair enough..alright. I will just leave you be then."

As she walked away, Twilight came over and sat next to him and placed a hoof on his shoulder.

"Zikel..I-"

"Twi, that's all she is getting from me for now.I accepted her apology. That's a start. But like I told her, she will have to earn my forgiveness. Simple as that."

"I know Zikel..I just wanted to say thank you. You are at least taking the initiative. And that makes me happy."

She said as she nuzzled up close to him, resting her head in his lap. He reaches down and begins running his claws through ehr mane.

"So your home show be finished by the time we return huh?"

"It depends on how hard they have been working. Why, you eager for me to move out?"

"Well..that's the thing...I will be sad to see you go. I enjoyed your company over the time you have stayed with me and Spike. Especially those late night cuddles while I read."

"Oh Twi, I would be happy to come by and stay over every now and then if that would make you happy. Its not like I am moving the Canterlot you know."

She giggled and looked up at him with those big purple eyes. He ran his claws through her mane more, getting a few coos from her.

"I don't know why you are here Zikel, but I am really glad you are."

--Next Day, Ponyville--

Zikel was on his way to check on his home. He and the girls parted ways at the train station. As he walked up to the large stone structure, he noticed there was no one there. he walked into the see his home was...fully furnished with the things he had asked for, and the underground had been fully finished and furnished as well. He could have sworn it would have taken longer than the time he had been gone. He was gone for only four days. SO how was it done so quickly? When he walked back up to the ground floor, he noticed a scroll left on the counter top with the royal seal on it.

"Of course she would have. Why does she do these things for me? Silly mare."

He opened up the scroll, it read:

To my dearest Zikel,

Word of your heroic deed has already reached me and Lulu here in Canterlot. This letter will reach you way before you return to your home. Which I have enlisted the help of a few carpenter ponies from Canterlot to aid the current ones working on your home. I know you don't like it when you are given things for free, but humor me this once. This was a gift from me and Lulu to you. We miss you dearly, and hope you return home safely.

Yours truly,

Tia

Zikel gripped the paper in his hands, not out of anger but in..well he wasn't sure what he was feeling. Why did these creature shower him with such praise after what he did? And what is even more strange, Celestia and Luna aren't phased by what they had found out. Sure he saved Cadence from the changeling queen. But you would think in such a colorful and...cheery world such as this. there was peace all over. Boy was he wrong.

"I don't deserve all the things the ponies do for me. Its not that I am ungrateful...I really am. I just don't understand why. Do I have trouble with accepting happiness when it is given to me out of fear of something coming to take it from me? Do I have to worry like that in this world?"

"That is exactly the case, Zikel. You fear happiness above all things due to your past. This is something you need to break away from.otherwise it will not only ruin you, but the others around you as well. I am saying this for both of our benefit. I may be your dark side. But I am a part of you. And despite how I want your heart to become filled with darkness, I also want to enjoy happiness as well. Its...hard to explain.."

"I understand what you are saying. Well, its my fault for taking up shadowmancy and bringing you within my mind. You got landed with someone who wants to keep those close to him safe. Sorry about that."

"Honestly Zikel, I admire you for that. You are willing to kill anyone who gets in the way of that. and you do it so brutally. And when its all said and done, you go back to the way you where, you feel regret for what you have done, but you don't let it hang over your head. A killer with remorse is quite rare. My last master was just a heartless bastard who didn't care at all. I enjoyed it very much, but at the same time...it felt...empty. Like nothing in all the world could satisfy me. But your relationship with the girls and the two royal sisters. I hope you maintain it for all your life."

Zikel arched a brow

"Who are you and what have you done with the other one?"

His darker image chuckled lightly.

"Amusing."

"I thought so to."

Zikel rolled up the scroll and tossed it onto the counter. He went back down to explore the rest of the underground portion of his home. It was exactly as he wanted it. Even down to the secret exit behind the library fireplace. Just like he had back home when he was younger. He finally head back upstairs, he hears a knock at his door.

"Come in."

The pony that entered was Twilight, she looked around at everything the was in the room, she shook her head but smiled.

"With this small fortress you got here...ponies may get the wrong idea."

"Well, let them Twi, but it keeps the sun out. Torches are enough light for me. Want a tour?"

"Yes please!"

She said with excitement, running to his side as he begins to show her around the ground floor, then the rest below. Of course, the room she loved the most was his small library. Eyeing the books that princess Celestia had so generously donated to fill up his shelves. He had a lot of reading material, no question about that.

"Well Zikel, it may be dark and gloomy for me, but it definitely suits you."

"Thanks Twi. You are welcome to come over anytime. Should you get lonely."

"You as well mister. Don't be a stranger. I need to head back. Me and the girls are going back to the castle to discuss a friendship issue that has come up. We may be gone for a few days."

"Geez, first Cadence calls us out now you may have to leave again? You hardly get a break don't you?"

"Comes with the responsibility of being a princess. Anyways, take care Zikel, be safe."

"You as well, all of you."

Twilight closed the door as she left. but this time, it was late into the evening, the sun had fallen and the moon and stars had come out to play. He lets out a long yawn, seeing the large bed that fit  him nicely and walking over to it, faceplanting into the pillow, falling asleep nearly instantly

Act 17: More Time With The Royal Sisters Part 1

Zikel opens his eyes as he sits up. The dark ceiling greeting him as he awakened. It felt...rather nice to wake up in his own home. Feeling like he earned his sleep now that it was in his own home once again. Though it is not like his little hideout back in his world, but, it was like his old home combined with his own little spin on it. He slides out of bed with a groan, not wanting to leave the comfort of his wonderful matress. But he couldn't just stay in bed all day now could he? Maybe he would swing by the spa to see if the teins needed him to come in earlier than the time they gave him? Yeah, that seems like a good plan.

He makes his way into his bathroom, getting the water ready and cleaning his body thoroughly. After a good five minutes, he gets out and dries off his body. Seeing all the scars that were upon his scales. He lets out a sigh. beginning to get dressed in his usual attire.

"Fucking oversized bugs did a number on me...that's for sure."

He hissed as he was finishing putting on his leather leg guards, tightening the straps after he secured them. He stood up and made his way out of his home, closing the door behind him and makes his way to the spa. All was..rather quiet as he walked through the street. Ponies just going about their daily lives and doing their daily things. Is this what it was like when the girls weren't around? Just a quiet little town? Never the less, Zikel made his way to the spa. When he walked in, it was also rather quiet. No pony was around at all. The twins themselves were layed out on the couches just enjoying themselves. They smiled widely and leaped from their spots as Zikel came in, running up to him and hugging him tightly

"Zikel, good to see you sweetie!"

"Yes, we have missed having you around hun. How goes the building of your new home?"

"Well, apparently they finished it ahead of schedule. So I was wondering if you wanted me to come back to work early?"

"Oooh no no. We would never ask you to come in on your time off...we are doing just fine."

Zikel chuckled lightly.

"I can see that. Not much business today huh?"

Lotus nuzzled into his side as she spoke

"No...its been pretty slow. We have had only one pony come in today. Me and Aloe we actually thinking of closing up early to get in a little relaxation time ourselves...maybe even as you to..give us a private session?"

She then gave him those bedroom eyes, along with her sister as well. Zikel sighed and shook his head.

"You missed doing that to me didn't you?"

Aloe giggled lightly pressing herself against him as well. Zikel would only let out a groan.

"You know ladies...what if I happen to take you up on that offer one day? Are you going to deliver?"

He asked with an arched brow, the twins only smiling more.

"We just might Zikel. You are definitely a strong dragon. I we figured two little mares like us would be no problem for you."

Zikel's eyes widen at their answer, a massive blush forming under his scales

"I...did not see that coming...Uh.."

Suddenly a scroll appears above his head. He reaches up and grabs it, opening it and reading it. Letting out a sigh of relief as he just avoided a very awkward situation.

"It seems I am being summoned by the princesses ladies. I won't be able to help you two today."

He said with a smirk. They both looked at him with adorable puppy eyes and gave him a little 'Awwwww..."

"Not so fun being on the receiving end of the teasing is it ladies?"

"I will admit...you got us. You...Mmmph..got us good.."

Lotus said while squirming a bit against him, he arousal could be smelt by Zikel, but he wouldn't say anything. After he prys them off his legs, he heads for the door.

"Don't worry ladies. I am sure you two can find other ways to..sate your aches."

As he left, the twins looked at one another, and gave each other a sultry stare.

"Shall....we lock up dear sister?"

"Mhmmm~ we shall."

The author will leave it to the reader's imagination on what the twins do. We now focus back on Zikel, who was back at his home getting ready to go and stay with the royal sisters once again. They seemed to love having him over quite a lot. Then again, he was one of the few creatures who saw them both as a dear friend, and not a ruler. He grabs his pack and heads out the door, but stops as he remembers something.

"Ah right, the chocolates I picked up for them back in the Crystal Empire."

He said as he heads back in to slide them in his pack, slinging it around his shoulder and taking flight right out the door. Soon coming upon the castle,it was about mid day when he arrived. As he landed in the main courtyard, the guards and staff that were around smiled to him and bowed slightly. Zikel returned the bow. To the guards and staff, he was a more pleasant creature than Blueblood could ever be, and they always awaited him to visit when he did. One of the guards walked up to him.

"prince Zikel. always a pleasure to have you come by. Are you looking for the princesses?"

"Yes I am. You know where I can find them bud?"

Princess Celestia is in the throne room, but I am afraid Princess Luna has not awakened from her slumber yet."

"Ah, then let her sleep...no one wants a cranky sleepy princess do they?"

Both him and the guard chuckled at that. Zikel patted him on the shoulder as he walked by.

"Keep up the good work bud. Oh, and you don't have to call me prince. relay that to the other guards as well..I hate that title to my name...."

Will do pri-....Zikel. This is gonna take some getting used to..."

"All good...see ya around."

Zikel opened the doors before the guards could get to it. He didn't like being waited on hand and foot...or in this cause hoof and hoof. He walks through the corridors,waving to the staff who wave to him. Catching a few of the maids giggling and blushing as he passes. he shakes his head a little. What was it about him that attracted mares to him? Aren't dragons supposed to be...you know scary monsters that will eat you if you so much as look at them? Then again...Zikel isn't exactly a real dragon. More like...a dragon and a quarter of human? He shrugged and just continued on to his destination. Once he got to the door, he quietly opened it and peeked in. Of course, poor Tia was buried in scrolls. But he took this time to get her blood running. He slipped in, pressing his finger to his lips to the guards, they stifled a chuckle and nodded. He took a crouching position, beginning to make his way to the corner of the throne room and going in a half circle, his foot steps ever so silent, even with his claws on his toes. He comes  up beside her and leans against her throne with his arm resting on it.

"Whatcha readin' there Tia?"

She instantly shot up, her wings stiffening all the way up as she lets out the most adorable little scream ever. The scrolls flying everywhere. She quickly turned to see who was the one responsible..oooh and they were gonna get it. But as she turned fully to see Zikel, a big toothy grin ojn his face, she couldn't help but not be mad at him, and threw her arms around him in happiness.

"Oh Zikel, I have missed you dearly! Me and Lulu are so happy to have you back home after what had happened."

Zikel lowered his gaze a bit from hers.

"How...much do you know?"

"Cadence was very...detailed in her letter. We know exactly how you handled the situation Zikel..."

He turned his head away from her, but was quickly brought back by her hoof to his cheek.

"Zikel...you did what you had to do to save her. I wouldn't have been so brutal in my tactics. But that's what I love about you. You don't see any line to cross when it comes to saving those you care about. So do not fear. Me and Lulu do not think any lesser of you. We promise."

Zikel looks into her eyes. They seemed sincere along with her voice. Zikel wrapped his arms a little tighter around the alicorn, nuzzling into her neck

"Thank you Tia...I am truly grateful to you and Lulu for understanding."

"That's what friends do for each other Zikel.We care for you. More than any other pony out there. Your safety and happiness means much to us."

"As do yours and Lulu's to me. You two are truly the closest I have to a family here. There is Twilight of course. But you two are just a little bit higher on the ladder. Speaking of which, her and the others went on some kind of...friendship quest thing. Said they won't be back for a few days. Your timing couldn't have been better."

Celestia smiled and clapped her hooves together.

"Then let us not waste any time."

She looked over to her guards.

"You are dismissed for the day. I am sure Zikel here will keep me safe should anything happen."

They nodded and went back to their posts or to change shifts. Celestia then looked to Zikel who had already picked up the scrolls for her and offered them to her. She takes them and stores them...somewhere on her person. She the drags him along with her magic by his robe.

"Let's go to the study, I want to hear all about what you have been up to lately. And also....just to spend some close time with you.."

Zikel blushed lightly as he knew exactly what she meant. And to be honest, she was really starting to grow on him just as much as her sister was as well. He didn't know it yet, but his feelings were starting to elevate to the levels of theirs for him.

Act 18: More Time With The Royal Sisters Part 2

Zikel was in the royal study with a book in his hand, leaning against the wall as he sat on a pillow comfortably with his legs crossed. His eyes solely focused on the words as he read within his mind. Celestia stole a few glances of him from time to time. She loved how focused his eyes were, she wondered what it would be like to have him stare at her so...intently. It made her shudder a bit, those eyes locking into ehrs...to her very core. It excited the mare.

"I just love how his eyes look..and with that serious stare..."

She thought to herself. He flipped a page as he finished reading the first. He lifts his head up to find Celestia starring at him with wide eyes. He tilts his head a bit in confusion. She quickly looks away with a slight blush.

"Tia...you alright?"

"Erm...yes Zikel. I am fine, its just I never took you for the heavy reader type. It's amazing at how focused you are."

"Well Tia, I am not much of a heavy reader. But I enjoy a book as much as the next pony."

She nodded to him and went back to her own book for awhile. She continued to glance up at him every now and then as he read. Then an idea popped into her mind, she couldn't help but giggle at it. She stood up and shelved her current book and pulled out another that seemed to involve the lives of a pony and a dragon. She brought it over to him and placed it in his face over his other book. Zikel then looked up at her. She had a big smile on her face as she suddenly pounced on the same pillow he was on and nuzzled up close to him.

"Let's read this one together!"

Zikel arched a brow, but didn't lean away.

"Tia...are you sure you are a ruler who has lived for thousands of years and not some little school filly in disguise? I think that would be frowned upon."

He teased. She looked up at him with those pouty lips and puffed cheeks, adorable as usual.

"its not my fault! I just...feel I can be myself around you is all. Me and Lulu never had that when we were younger. I guess I am just trying to makeup for lost time."

"Tia, I never said it was a bad thing. To be honest, I prefer the real you to the  one I first met. Same thing with Lulu. I like it that you two can feel at ease around me. As I know I can do the same with you."

Celestia smiles and presses more against him as he revealed this information to her. levitating the book more in front of him.

"Sooooooo?"

He grabs the book and chuckles lightly. opening it up and beginning to read it out loud with her. She would speak the mare's parts as he would speak the dragon's, this surprisingly went on for nearly three hours straight. They were laughing and smiling the whole time they read together. It was enjoyable for the both of them. Just spending time with one another. As they neared the end of the book, There was a rather loving and romance kissing scene. They both blushed fiercely  as they locked eyes, slowly leaning in closer....and closer...

"Ahem..you kiss her, you better not leave ME out of it.."

Both Zikel and Celestia jumped as Luna was just as close as they were. looking away from one another, but Celestia glared at her sister, who was smirking

"You know the agreement big sis. He has to kiss both of us!"

Zikel quickly stood up and shoved the book back onto the shelf.

"W-we just got caught up in the moment was all!"

He said as he tried to find a way out of this situation. Luna arched a brow, the a sly smile came across her face.

"So, you aren't going to finish what you started mister?"

"You know Lulu...technically I am already one kiss ahead of you. I smooched him when I went to go talk to him behind the spa the day we all went.."

Zikel did indeed remember that. He gives a sheepish smile and looks at Luna who was now pouting up at him

"Then its only fair I get to kiss him as well. C'mere you!"

Zikel had no time to react as a leaping Luna pounces on him and locks lips with his, Zimel falling back with his hands landing on her flank. She lets out a soft moan as this happened into his mouth, Celestia's mouth agape at her sister's blod move upon Zikel. She couldn't help but feel a little jealous. Ask the two kissed,Zikel noticed that her lips were just as soft as Celestia's. Ooooh to feel both pairs of lips...it would be...sublime.

(*crosses his arms again* Reader...do we have to discuss this again? No..NO! Get back here!)

Zikel laid there with a goofy grin on his face after Luna had her way with his lips. He wasn't going to lie. Being kissed by Celestia and now Luna was pretty cool. Not many can brag about that. Luna couldn't help but giggle as Zikel finally shook himself back into reality.

"Well now...that certainly was...actually it was very nice. Both of you have such soft lips."

He sighs a bit, going quiet for a moment. He knew is was time to get serious. He looked up to the blushing sisters.

"Tia, Lulu, I don't know what it is you see in me. But I am still surprised that both of you want to be with me. I am still trying to wrap my mind around how that is okay with both of you."

Celestia lightly smiles to him and plopped on her rear in front of him, as did Luna.

"Remember what I told you Zikel? About us finding the right mate that could stay with us for thousands of years? Me and Lulu agreed on sharing that same mate should that ever happen. I love my sister very much to do that for her. And you seem like the perfect dragon for it all. You are kind, brave, and you put others first before yourself, that last one dragons don't normally possess."

"That's right Zikel, me and Tia aren't making this decision off the fly either. After our last mates, who...passed on in such a short time for us. If we came across anypony we both liked, we would both be his. And if our love was true. We decided to use our magic to make him ageless like us.But the good thing about you is that you are a dragon. And we have more than enough time to work things out."

Zikel looked between the two sisters. Should he keep on denying the feelings he had for both of them?he knew he had liked them from the get go, but now his bond with them has surely grown over the passing months he has been living in this world. It certainly has been a roller coaster of events. He lowers his head for a bit, then looks up to both of them with another serious stare.

"If you two really want to be with me in such a way. Then you obviously know what could happen if things should get out of control if the kingdom fell under attack. It would be like what happened back at the Crystal Empire. Are you willing to have a killer as your mate, ladies?"

Celestia and Luna looked to each other for a moment, they nodded to each other, then to him.

"We know the risks Zikel, but that isn't going to lessen our feelings for you. We know you do these things not out of evil intent or maliciousness. But simply because you wish to protect that which you hold dear. Just because we are immortal, don't mean we are invincible. Our lives could be taken from us should we fail. But knowing we may have you at our side...there is nothing we couldn't face together..."

Luna would simply nod in agreement at her sister's words. Zikel looks between them both once more. He was about to make the biggest decision in his life, and it weighed heavily on his back. He was about to accept not one, but TWO hearts that seemed to beat only for him.

"And you two won't regret this decision you have made?"

They both shook their heads in sync.

""Very well then. I am willing to take on this relationship with you two. Even though it seems a bit...unreal, I would be happy to be called your mate. I have gotten to know you so much over the time we have been friends. I just really hope...this doesn't turn into a feud between sisters and their lover. That's the last thing I need."

They both gasp in delight and pounce him instantly, nuzzling into him, happy as can be.both of their tail swaying rather excitedly

"He said yes Tia!"

"He sure did Lulu! He is all ours now!"

Zikel laid there with the two alicorns in his arms, thinking back to the twins back at the spa and chuckled lightly. Looks like they won't be getting any sexy time from him after all. What a shame. He held them closely in his arms, not letting go. For the first time, he has finally accepted a little bit of happiness in his life. He wasn't going to fear it any longer. Instead, he was going to fight, even kill for it. Why should he be denied it when he has suffered enough? Zikel looked down at the two alicorns who starred up at him with eyes filled with love and hope for him. He couldn't help but lean in and press his forehead against both of theirs.

"I won't lie to you ladies...but I am rather excited about this. My first real relationship..with TWO beautiful mares. I honestly don't know how lucky I am do I?"

"Oh you are extremely lucky Zikel...don't worry. Me and Lulu will take good care of you. We would fight to the end of Equestria to make sure you are safe and loved...."

"That's right, no one will take you from us Zikel. Your heart belongs to royalty now. And anyone who tries to take you from us will suffer the consequences."

Zikel couldn't help but chuckles.

"You two really are like a couple of school fillies who have just found the stallion of their dreams. its quite adorable really."

They could care less about Zikel's teasing and prodding at the moment, for they were in pure happiness and bliss right now. They both had the male of their hearts now, in his arms and resting against him.Nope, they didn't care one bit.

"Well now, I think this calls for a celebratory bath time. Don't you Lulu?"

"I agree, Tia."

They both pick him up with their magic and drag him along.

:Let's go mister. You are coming with us to get all scrubbed down and pampered again!"

"Oh gods, come on girls you known how I feel about that!"

He latches onto the threshold of the door with his claws, like a dog who knows bath time is on its way. Eventually he is pried from the wood, which now had five claws marks in it.

"NOOOOOooooo!"

His voice trailed off as they got further down the hall.

--Royal Baths--

SPLASH!!

Zikel was thrown in after being stripped down, he rises up from the water as the two sisters joined in shortly by jumping in after they removed their regalia. He spat out some water that had gotten in his mouth and looked at the two with a rather unamused stare towards them. They both giggled at him and walked over, sitting next to him and nuzzling into him lovingly. they looked up at him with those big lovely eyes...damnit he couldn't be mad at that.

"You are lucky I find you two absolutely adorable..."

They bopth laughed and pressed closer to him, wrapping their forearms around his torso.

"And we are lucky that you are such a kind and loving dragon...our last mates didn't take things like these lightly...they would get so upset when we wanted to just play around and have some fun. But you seem to take it in stride. Its one thing we admire about you."

Zikel sighed and just smiled. She was right after all, he would never get angry at such a thing, especially since it wasn't really meant to upset him. He brings his arms around them both and hugs them closely, they both wraps their wings around him as they rest against him. After a few minutes of that, they grab the soap and the brush, looking at him with those big eyes again.

"Alright alright...fine."

They giggled and began scrubbing his body and combing his hair. They looked at all the scars that adorned his body from the last battle he had and frowned a bit.

"Zikel...those changelings really hurt you didn't they..?"

Celestia asked. He nodded to her.

"Well, when it's twenty oversized bugs against one shadowmancer with a dagger. I can't exactly slip passed them all without getting bit, cut, or anything else they threw at me. If it weren't for my determination to save Cadence, probably wouldn't have made it out alive."

They both lowered the ears a bit at his words, the both leaned in and started kissing at his healed over wounds. This made Zikel feel...oddly better. And he didn't know why. They continued peppering his body with kisses, finally one of them catching the last scar their soft lips hadn't touched> Zikel was really starting to enjoy their attention now. Could it be that their feelings truly are so strong for him, that they would treat him this way? Being his first relationship, his was a bit confused. then again, it could also be their maternal instinct taking over. Zikel was eighteen after all. And these two were thousands of years old. Could that be one of the reason why they wish to do these things for him? Maybe so. And to be honest, It was starting to grow on Zikel. In his mind, he remembers how his own mother used to be like that when he was younger. But their bonding was cut short by her death, as was his father's as well. He decided he would let these two do this then. If it made them happy to pamper their mate in such a way, he wasn't going to stop them.

"You ladies are too good to me. You know that don't you?"

"With what you have been through Zikel..you deserve all the love and affection in the world. And me and Lulu plan on giving it to you>"

"You bet your scaley rump we will."

Zikel smiles warmly and just relaxes, enjoying the attention for once. though something in his mind was bothering him, that last little peace of paranoia was nagging at him and telling him to be on guard. And when his mind is still fighting to tell him that, it usually mean something was going to happen in the future. Near or far though, he couldn't tell.

"I sense a malicious darkness creeping upon the land Zikel. Be alert, as events in the world are about to unfold. keep your friends and your lovers close...you will need them."

Zikel simply nodded as the princesses were too busy doing what they were doing

Act 19: Love Of The Sun, Moon And Shadow

WARNING: SEXY TIME AHEAD!

Zikel was finally out of the royal baths wrapped up in a towel. he had finished drying off and slid his now clean clothes back on..wait. Did sompony come in and take his clothes, clean them, dry them and put them back where they were..and who were they? Sneaky sneaky. He heard his two lovers call out to him.

"Go ahead Zikel,w e will catch up with you in a few minutes. We are going to soak a little longer."

"Indeed, see you soon sweetheart."

"Don't stay in there too long ladies, might get all end up like prunes."

He teased. They huffed, but giggled. Zikel heads to the chambers his usually stays at when he is at the castle, he gets into his boxers after setting his clothes aside neatly, ready for the next day. he falls face first onto the bed and rolls over. Another cuddle session with the two ponies he cares for the most. This was going to be a good night. He closes his eyes for a few minutes, nearly falling asleep at the ten minute mark when he heard the door open. He started sitting up.

"You two certainly to your-"

He was cut off by what he was seeing. The two sisters were dressed in lace stocking, completely nude and posing. Celestia was wearing black lace stockings, and Luna was wearing white laced stockings. Zikel was absolutely speechless at what he was seeing. And no doubt aroused. His heart beating over five hundred miles an hour. An exaggeration of course, but still. The mares both gave him bedroom eyes as they closed the door behind them, moving their hips in a sultry manner as they approached him.

"W-what's all this then?"

Celestia giggled lightly as she climbed up beside him, Luna following to the other side.

"Well Zikel, since you are now ours, we need to seal the deal after all."

"Mhmm, hope you are ready mister. Me and Tia are about to make you a full stallion..or in your case...an adult dragon."

"B-but ladies..I have never ever done this sort of thing before. I believe I told you two that I am actually a virgin. S-so I won't be of much use to you when I am so...inexperienced."

"And that's why we are teaching you now sweetheart. Besides, your body is looking rather...eager to find out."

Zikel looked at the struggling member between his legs, wanting to break free of it's clothe prison and reveal itself in full on erection. He wouldn't lie to himself, he was a bit nervous but at the same time, extremely excited. The two princesses began kissing at his neck, trailing down his shoulders, peppering him with affectionate kisses and nuzzles. He slowly began to relax, he was being pushed back down into a laying position, both mares gently rubbing their hooves up and down their lover's body. They to were extremely excited to see what this dragon looked like at full erection. In the bath, they never really took notice cause of all the bubbles and everything. But, this was in the bedroom. A whole new level.

"Look Tia...he is starting to relax a bit...well most of him anyways."

They both giggled at her joke

"Indeed little sister. We should take care of all that pent up stress this poor young dragon has been facing."

With that they both begin to slowly pull down his briefs, the large dragon member bouncing freely and hitting the air, causing Zikel to let out a grunt as the sensitive glands touched the air outside of his undergarments. His body may have changed, and so did his member. It wasn't human by any means. It was now ebony block with spines on the bottom and ridges all along the top and sides. It wasn't anything impressive like a stallion would have,its length was about seven and a half inches, but it's girth...that was a whole other story. The mares starred at it with big smiles.

"Oh Lulu...he looks magnificent...what he lacks in length...he definitely makes up for in girth. It might even be a tight squeeze for us..."

"And his scent....it's so intoxicating...not to mention he has quite a nice set of orbs resting below. I cannot wait to get my muzzle around those..."

They began kissing and licking around his package, licking at his inner thighs and continuing to inhale his scent, becoming drunk off of it. Zikel could smell their arousal now. And it was starting to fog up his mind,, letting out a snort as smoke rose from his nostrils. And without warning, the two sister began to lick and lap at their prize, letting out moans and coos as they enjoyed their lover's taste. he tasted so sweet, like citrus fruits. Luna wasted notime in claiming what she wanted earlier. She sank beelow and pulled one of the large orbs into ehr mouth, beginning to suckle and lick on each other over and over while her sister claimed his erected member for herself. The sounds of them both slurping and suckling on him, and the feeling itself was almost too much to bare. At the same time they were gently rubbing up and down on his thighs with their hooves. Zikel's hands began to move, his knuckles cracking and instantly and finding their soft and plump rears. Squeezing and kneading at their wonderful globes. No doubt from all that cake they consume. But he wasn't complaining

They both moaned with their mouths full as he began to fondle and molest them without hesitation. they began towork more eagerly in sync. Celestia beginning to take him further down her throat. Luna getting a big smirk on her face, releasing his orbs with a lewd pop. She ventures just a little lower, sliding her muzzle under his heavy sac and begins to lick at his dark, soft tailstar. This making Zikel twitch his legs a bit as she began lapping and kissing at that sensitive muscle. He lets out another growl and moan of delight, both the sisters giggling

"You hear that Tia? He likes a good mouth there...I will be sure to keep this in mind for future reference.."

Celestia only giggled lightly as she continued sucking and bobbing ehr head up and down on his throbbing member, Luna returning to worshiping his ebony tailstar, his sac continuing to rest perfectly on her muzzle. Zikel's hands soon find their real targets. Both of their dripping needy marehoods. They were so hot to the touch. he could feel them twitching and winking, begging for attention. Zikel in his current state, was only too happy to indulge them. Slipping his expert fingers into their sex, he began to rub and caress their innr walls, while his thumbs played with their clits, pinching and flicking them ever so often, getting cute little squeak and moans from them both as they worked him with their mouths

"Ladies...gonna...soon..very soon.."

He managed to get out. They both giggled and released him from their mouths, only to have both of their tongues start lapping at his throbbing, swelling member once more. Eventually wrapping both they lips around his tip and beginning to kiss each other like that, they both continued to moan in delight as Zikel played with their needing folds. Eager to have that monster inside of them, they work him as best as they could. And their work payed off, as he lets out a loud long growl of delight as he begins to flood both of their mouths with his thick warm seed, which also tasted rather sweet as well. They made sure to drink down every drop before they released their lips around his head, the sensual gulping from them could be heard throughout the room. Zikel went quiet for a moment, the two sister looking over at him while licking him clean.''

"Hehe, he must have REALLY loved that Tia..our last mates only wanted to mount us and be done with it. He let's us take care of him..and I like it.."

"As do I Lulu...as do I."

Zikel suddenly shot up from his laying position, his member still hard as a rock and his growling continuing to grow. They knew exactly what he wanted. And were all too eager to take it. Luna laid on top of her sister. Celestia was on her back, both their plump sexes presented and waited. Zikel's instincts started to take over, his knelt behind the two sister;s and prodded his member at their folds, positioning himself just right, he looks at them before he makes his way in, seeing those begging eyes made him chuckle darkly. He gives Celestia what she seeks first, sliding his member into her deep. I was indeed a tight fit, but he pushed on. The spines and ridges pulling at her inner walls as he began to claim one of his two mates, his tail coming around and sliding into Luna without hesitation. His plan was toalternate between the two

"Yes Zikel...claim us, make use your breeding mares! Oooh yes! We Have been needing this for so so long!"

Celestia shouted in delight.

"Yes Zikel, do not hold back, give us all you have, please!!"

Zikel was more than happy to do so, working both his hips and tail in complete synchronization. The moans and coos of his lovers evident that they are truly enjoying themselves, not to mention how tight they were squeezing him with those soft and warm walls. After awhile, he alternated his tail and member, finally giving Luna was she herself has wanted. Both sisters wiggled and writhed on one another, kissing each other feverishly. Zikel suddenly moved his hands under them between their legs. He fondled and squeezed their teats, this making the princesses squeal and moan as they locked lips. They wiggled more, loving at how rough he claimed them both. They broke their kiss and looked behind them back at him, eye half lidded.

"Zikel...you are such a lewd beast...and we absolutely love it. You don't know how long we wanted a lover like you..mmmh, take us until you are satisfied."

"Mhmm, break me and Tia like we are virgins again...you are doing an excellent job of that-aah! T-to be sure.."

Zikel's mind was now in a complete haze of lust and desire, not even answering them. He continued his asult on the poor needy mares. alternating every once in awhile so that they get what they want, this went on four hours, the mares having already climaxed three times from his savage mating, He was close now,and it was going to be a large amount of seed.

"Gonna...again...."

The two mares knew exactly what to do. They scrambled off each other and quickly got their mouths to the tip of his now hot and throbbing member and wrapped their lips around it in another kiss, letting out moans that vibrated against the sensitive glands. They gace him that same wanting look he had received earlier.

"Feed us Zikel...let us swallow you down again.."

Celestia begged in a sultry tone of voice

"You better not take it all Tia..."

Said Luna with narrowed eyes. They both giggled and resumed their kiss upon the tip of his member. Zikel placed his hands on their heads as they did this, running his claws through their manes, continuing to enjoy the attention once more. His breathing increases and his muscles tense up, hsi throws his head back in pleasure and lets out a mighty roar, a stream of fire flowing my from maw as he began to spew his seed into his lovers' mouths once more, this time it was more than the last. They gulped it down quickly, but it was flowing to freely and some of it got on their pretty faces. After the stream died down, so did Zikel. he fell back onto the bed and panted in delight, his mind slowly coming out of the lust filled haze it was in. After the sisters had licked each others faces clean, they turn to his now soften member and crawl over, beginning to give it a gentle licking and cleaning.

"Mmmmh...just think big sister...this dragon is all ours now. We no longer have to go without wanting anymore."

"Yes Lulu...I don't know why he was brought here, but I can't say I care. All I know is that I love him so very much, and Iwill do anything for him."

"As do I Tia, as do I."

Zikel laid there with a goofy grin on his face. The sister saw this and couldn't help but have a little giggle fit. They crawled up to his side and clung to his body, wrapping their forelegs around his torso, and their hindlegs around each of his own legs. Zikel brought an arm around each of them and pulled them closer, letting out a rumble of content.

"And I love you, both of you. And I will do everything within my power to keep you safe...even though I am sure two powerful alicorns don't need my help.." he said with a chuckle

They both leaned up and kissed him, giving him a loving gaze.

"Zikel...we may be the rulers of Equestria, but that doesn't mean we are invulnerable. We have weaknesses to you know."

"We do, and you are one of them...but you are also our strength. if we have you at our side, then there is nothing we can't handle.

"Lulu is right Zikel. You make her and I happy. So long as that remains, we will destroy anypony who threatens that for us."

They laid there for a little longer, snuggling and holding each other closely. Eventually, all three of them fell into a deep slumber, smiles on their faces.

--Northern Equestria, Icy Arctic--

Blueblood sat in a cave in front of a dying fire, shivering from the tempatures.

"Curse that monster.....taking everything I own...I will get revenge for that..even if it kills me."

"And how badly are you willing to want that revenge ex-prince?"

Said a dark gravelly echoing voice from around the cave, the fire suddenly dying out right there

"W-who's there?! Show yourself!"

"Answer the question. How badly do you want your revenge?"

"I..I would do anything for it. I want him to suffer for what he did..."

The voice chuckled darkly, suddenly something flew at him and landed on the spot where his horn had once stood, a black magic securing the horn to his head. Blueblood lets out a scream of pain as his body begins to change, the transformation eventually finished and he was reborn, King Sombra. He had taken over Blueblood's body for his own. He lets out a dark chuckle.

"The darkness in your heart is enough to sustain me. Thanks for the body...pathetic welp.."

Sombra laughed again, making his way out of the cave.

Act 20: Signs Of Suffering Approach

Zikel breathes heavily in his sleep, sweat forming on his body as he slightly thrashes in his sleep. he was suffering from a nightmare. A rather horrible and very vivid one. In his dream, it is dark and stormy, lightning everywhere and hard rainfall. he is standing in the middle of a war zone. weapon in hand. Ponies dressed in gold and blue armor facing off against ponies is pure black armor. Zikel attacks the ones in black armor that come for him, hitting them with death blows from his blade and swinging his tail at the others to send them flying away from him. The sound of war cries and metal hitting against metal rung through the air. magic spells of all kinds of elements flying overhead. suddenly the dream shifted into a large room, a throne room of sorts, covered in nothing but black crystal. Zikel looks around the room to find both Luna and Celestia chained up against a wall of dark crystal. They lift their heads slowly and look at him with pleading eyes. Zikel begins to run as fast as his legs would carry him, but no matter how fast he ran, its like he couldn't get to them. A dark laughter echos through the dream as he tries to get to them.

"Your princesses will fall by my magic. And I will kill them right in front of your very eyes...you will have no one left. despair will take you."

said the shadowy figure sitting on the crystal throne before him. A dark grin upon it's face.

"You will have to kill me first. Those princesses are mine! And I will not let you take them from me!"

Zikel screamed out, the dark aura starting to surround his body. Suddenly the dream shifted to Zikel looking over head. Seeing...a monster of some sorts leaning over the shadowy figure that now had fear in it's eyes, and the two sisters...not moving and bleeding. Zikel's eyes widen as he knew exactly what was going on. Are they...and is that him..? Zikel suddenly opens his eyes and shoots up, letting out a slight scream as he nearly flies forward. Sweat dripping from him and his breathing quick and heavy. Both Celestia and Luna sitting up with looks of worry on their faces.

"Zikel, what is wrong love? What happened?"

Celestia asked as her and Luna gently placed an arm around him, trying to calm him down.

'There...there was war...and ponies dying...you two. And a shadowy figure...lots of dark crystal...'

Both of their eyes shot open, leaning in.

"Zikel...are you sure about the dark crystal? What did this figure look like?"

"I couldn't tell...he was mostly smoke. But he had these odd eyes...the sclera was green but the iris was red."

The sisters look at one another again, then nodded. They looked back at Zikel, nuzzling into him gently.

"Listen Zikel...the one you saw in your nightmare was a unicorn king named Sombra. He enslaved all of the Crystal Empire thousands of years ago. The fact that you had a dream about him...means that something terrible is on the horizon. I know you have a home back in Ponyville. But until things resume normally...we ask you Zikel, we plead to you. Stay with us at the castle. If we lose you during to upcoming conflict...I don't even want to think about it."

"I agree with Tia Zikel. We beg you to stay close to us. Times are about to get very rough here. If your dream is a vision of what is to come. Please stay with us."

"But what I saw in the dream at the end...I am scared ladies. He had you tied in chains...I couldn't get to you..and you were...you were.."

Zikel began to choke up a bit, placing a hand over his eyes. trying his best to keep his eyes from watering up. the fact that he had dreamed it...and seen it in the dream. It filled him with great sadness. he felt both of them wrap their forearms around him lovingly and nuzzled close to him. Doing their best to console him.

"Sweetheart calm down...sssshh. we are right here. Always will be.'

"That's right..we made a promise to stay together after all ZIkel...you, me and Tia. No matter what happens, we will not be torn apart."

Zikel was still quiet, the images flashing through his head, They pull him back down gently and cuddle in close beside him, leaning in and kissing him gently.

"Try to go back to sleep love. We still have hours away until the sun needs to be risen."

Zikel nodded to Celestial as she urged him to try and get back to bed. He held them both closely in his arms as he closes his eyes. He hopes to the heavens above that his dream was simply that, a dream. He drifts off into sleep after laying there for what felt like an eternity, finally succumbing to the grip of slumber once more. The two sisters nestled up closely against him, each one wrapping their forms around him protectively.

The morning eventually came along. Zikel slowly opens his eyes, finding out he was the only one left in the bed. He gets up and stretches his body, letting out a growl mixed with a yawn as he does. The dream still on his mind even though he was able to sleep. Those images flashing in his mind again. He shudders at them, quickly pushing them to the far dark corners of his mind.

"Maybe some good breakfast will calm my nerves...nothing like a good meal to settle a man after a rough night sleep."

He said as he walks out of the room, closing the door behind him. He makes his way downstairs and passed the guards, greeting them with a nod and finally entering the dinning hall, where both of his lovers were waiting for him with loving smiles.

"Come sweetheart...please feast till your heart's content. We had this meal ready just for you."

Luna nods in agreement.

"We wanted to help you feel better after last night. And we do know how you enjoy food. Please, eat up love."

Zikel gave them a small smile, gathering the breakfast foods on his plate. Sausage, bacon, pancakes hashbrowns...so many good foods all laid out just for him. As he began digging into the food, his nerves did indeed start to calm down a bit. He continued to tear through the food like he hadn't eaten in days, Celestia and Luna watching him with wide eyes, but they giggled all the same and went to eating their own meals. After breakfast was over, Zikel stood up and began heading to towards the training grounds.

"Thank you, both of you. I feel much better already. But I am going to go and get a morning work out in. you will know where to find me."

"Of course Zikel, we will be there should you send for us."

As Zikel disappeared around the corner, Celestia looked to her younger sister.

"I have Day Court to attend to my dear sister. Please do keep an eye on our beloved. He didn't say much during breakfast. And I am wondering if it is because of what he dreamt about last night. Something is telling me he is going to the training grounds to..well, I'd rather not say."

"Of course Tia, I will make sure he doesn't do anything irrational."

As Luna walks out of the dinning room, sneaking off after Zikel, Celestia looked out to one of the balconies and frowned slightly.

"If he truly is indeed back, we are going to be having quite the ordeal. And the last thing I wanted was for Zikel to have to deal with anymore than he already has in his life. But it seems that his poor soul can't seem to ever get a break..."

Zikel walks into the training grounds, nodding to the guards that he passes by, Luna watching him from afar and hiding from his view. She notices that he walks out of the gate that lead into another part of the castle. It lead into the back of the storage of all the weapons and such. Zikel went into the back of the room, opening a door before he shifts his gaze from side to side, entering the room and locking it behind him. Luna comes into the weapon and armor storage just in time to see him disappear into the dark room, and hearing the sound of the door locking into place.

"What is he up to in there...?"

She asked herself before quickly moving into the room more, pressing her ear up to the door to listen for what he might be doing or saying.

Zikel cuts out all the torches that were in the room after clearing all the crates that were hiding a strange dark arcane circle that he sat in the middle of. he placed his hands together light his was praying, sitting with his legs crossed. The markings on his body beginning to lightly glow as he began to speak in the language of the shadows.

"Veldrin, veldrin, nym'uer uns'aa. Veldrin, veldrin doer fotus. Usstan joros biu ashl'ah xuil l'draeval p'los dron d'nindol olath lloun. Belbau uns'aa zhaunil pholor lu'oh ulu g'jahall l'ogglin nindel uriu noe'sh wund ussta deis." < Shadows, shadows, hear my call. Shadows, shadows, come forth. I ask an audience with the past lives of this dark art. Give me wisdom on how to defeat the enemy that has shown within my dreams.">

As Zikel conccentrated hard, the runes on his body began to flash slowly at first, his breathing in sync with them. Luna could feel a very very dark energy radiating out of the room he was in. And the words his spoke frightened even the princess of the night. She begins to try and force her way into the room, but the lock was securely in place. But this time, Zikel was now in a full trance, his eyes wide and glowing brightly as well as the runes on his body, the circle having little up as well with black and blue fire filling it in.

"Zikel please open up! Whatever you are doing can't be good! Please don't do this!"

Luna begged as she continued to pound on the door with one of her hooves. But it was too late. Zikel had already gone into the shadow realm. the circle acting as both a portal for his soul, and a shield for his body. As Zikel opens his eyes, he finds himself within a spectral dark chamber with chairs surrounding him in a circle, each one with a hooded robed figure stareing at him with glowing eyes, dark chanting in the back ground

"Well well, look at who we have here. It is the son of the late Azrael Magnus. Come to seek advice from the Council Of Shadow have you, boy?"

Zikel stands up from his position and nods, taking a bow to them..

"Yes master. I have come to learn more in the ways of shadows as well."

"And we know why young Zikel."

An elderly sounding female voice comes from one of the figures.

"We know all about the dream that you have had dear boy. The dream you had was a vision we had granted you of your possible future. One that is...and isn't set in stone. Should you chose the power we offer to teach you...you will be able to fight off the threat that will steal your loved ones away from you. But it may come at a terrible price should you not be able to control it. As you know, shadowmancy is like walking on the edge of a dagger. Such as the one your father wielded, and had left in your possession before he died. Knowing this risk. Are you still willing to potentially give up your sanity and soul for the lessons we are about to give you?"

Zikel nodded firmly.

"I will do anything to make sure my new family never becomes a slave to pain and suffering. not like I have."

"It is true masters. The boy is quite the noble shadowmancer. Not like the others who have only taken up our powers for personal gain. It has really rubbed off on me..."

"Aah, shadowmancer Zeraph. So you are the guiding soul who was bound to this young one. Good to see you again."

The elder woman spoke again.

"Very well then Zikel. We shall begin your training now. Should the shadows favor you and your soul and deem you worthy of more power. They will give it to you. If not. You will die on the spot, and your body will be taken over be a bloody thirsty demon.Do you still wish to do this?"

".....Yes."

"Proceed."

Luna was still banging on the door and calling out to Zikel, continuing to plead and beg for him to open the door. She could feel the dark energy growing more and more the longer she stayed. She was reluctant to leave the room, for her love was in potential danger, even though she didn't know what it was from. She finally started galloping out of the room and into the training grounds, passed all the guards and taking flight, zooming through the castle corridors and bursting into the throne room. Where Celestia was in the middle of Day Court. Luna's paniced face and tears spelled out what was going on to her older sister.

"Tia...I tried to watch him...but he locked himself in the weapons storage in one of the back rooms. he started chanting these strange words. And very dark and evil energy filled the rooms. I couldn't get to him! Please Tia, we have to get in there and stop him from what he is doing, I think he has really dug himself too deep this time!"

Celestia's eyes widen as her sister tells her of what had become of their love. Standing up and looking to her guards.

"Day Court has been dismissed! Guards, come with me, Prince Zikel is in danger! No more nobles are to come in from here!"

As they run out of the throne room with guards in tow, they make their way to where Zikel is located, the door that had been previously untouched was now set ablaze with black fire, not burning, back acting as a barrier between the outside. This inside of the room Zikel was in was blazing with black and blue fire.

"Tia..this energy...this magic...it scares me so much..."

Luna said as she began to shake a bit. Backing away from the door as her sister approached it.

"I know Lulu...but he needs us now. He feels that by doing this..he will gain more power so we won't be taken from him. But we need to get in there and drag him out of what is going on."

She said as she fired a beam of pure light magic at the door, the beam slowly chipping away at the dark flames, but slowly regenerating. Luna knew that her help was needed, and pitched in, as well as the unicorn guards that accompanied them.

Back in the shadow realm, Zikel was standing in the middle of the same kind of circle his body was in the middle of back in the physical realm, but this one was surrounded by five other circles,smaller ones similar to the larger. the robbed figures took their spots on the circles, putting their hands out in front of them. They begin the chant.

"velkyn ussen d'l'veldrin, zud'dar nindol waelin uss d'ukt equidain lu'belbau ukta l'yorn uk lac'na ulu g'jahall ukt ogglin. Jous ukta khurzon zhal'la dos ji orn ol." <unseen ones of the shadows, test this young one of his abilities and give him the power he seeks to defeat his enemy. Show him worthy should you so will it.>

As the black energy flys toward Zikel, he closes his eyes and thinks of his two loved ones who he could not live without. And suddenly, the black energy hits him like a thousands swords impaling his body, he lets out a silent scream of pain as the others continued chanting in the language of shadows. Zikel's body was in just as much pain as his soul was, continuing to thrash about in pain as black markings were being carved into his flesh in the physical realm. His darker side watched the ritual go on from the side lines. He had grown fond of Zikel, and it hurt him a bit to see the young man who he had guided and watched over ever since he was bound to him, go through so much pain just to protect those he cared about. Zikel continued to let out silent screams of pain, the looks of it plainly on his face. He was going to be in a world of hurt when...if he was still alive in the physical realm..

Celestia and Luna continued to try and break away the dark magic that was keeping them separated from their beloved mate. Finally after nearly an hour had passed, they shattered the door and looked upon the room and Zikel in horror. They saw the markings being carved into his skin by an unseen force, blood trailing down from them and turning the darkest black as they seal up. The two sisters instantly tried to make their way to save Zikel, but the black fire burned them slightly as they tried to approach. tears began to form in both of their eyes as they watched helplessly as whatever was doing this to him was continuing to hurt him. But they didn't see him react to any of it. His eyes still glowing a bright blue. The flames thrashing about the circle, rising and falling in all spots but the middle, indeed acting as a shield so the shadowmancer is not to be disturbed.

"Zikel...why are you doing this...? We promised to protect you..."

Celestia began to sob slightly as she watched him bleed in front of her, Luna's own tears beginning to stream down her face as she leaned against her sister, burying her head into her sister's neck.

Zikel was thrashing about, but his mind was strong. Keeping his thoughts on those he cared for and was doing this for. So long as he had them, he felt invincible, no matter what kind of pain he had to face. The shadows will not claim his body nor his soul. He will claim their powers.

" I cannot give in...I will not! I have two mares I cannot leave behind god damnit! You will not take me. Give me your power! to protect hose I care about. I will become a monster should I have to! But you will not take me away from them, and you will not take them away from me!"

Zikel screamed out in his mind as the dark energy continued to ravage his mind, body and soul. As the final part of the ritual was coming to a close, Zikel was lifted into the air as the shadows surrounded both his physical and spiritual self, diving directly into his chest and claiming their spot in his body. Zikel drops to the ground, motionless for a moment as the robbed figures lower their hands. He was motionless for a good while.

"What a shame...the poor boy had so much potential, but it seems that they decided not to deem him worthy after all."

Just as the masters were about the turn away, Zikel opens his eyes and balls his right hand into a fist, slamming it into the ground and pushing himself up. A look of determination in his eyes.

"I will not be taken so easily, master. I have beings I need to protect and fight for. They would be extremely sad if I up and died on them because of something stupid I did."

A deep raspy voice chuckled from one of the figures.

"Yep, just like his father. No wonder he didn't join us down here. It was because of the way he used his abilities, that the Maker saw fit to grant him a place in the heavens. You have come very far, young Zikel. And I admire that you maintain the razor edge of falling to the dark abyss, and keeping to the light. It is not an easy path. But you walk it like it is nothing. But know this, it will now be harder than ever now that you have taken in the pure essence of the shadows. But, you are the son of Azrael Magnus. If he could do it, I know you can..after all, you are my grandson. Make me proud Zikel. Don't fall into the same mistake like this foolish old man did. As long as you keep those two at your side, and fight to protect them. Then the shadows will not overtake your kind heart. Be safe, my boy."

Said the figure as he removed his hood to reveal a long white haired man that looked to be an elderly version of his human self, covered in black markings all over his face. before Zikel could speak out, he was then torn from the shadow realm. he was thrusted back into his body which now laid flat on the ground. The fire died down as he could hear the voices of the two sisters calling form him and hooves rushing towards him.

"Zikel..Zikel please wake up, Please! You can't die from this, we need you!!"

Celestia and Luna sobbed into his chest as they tried to bring their beloved dragon back to them. Zikel weakly brought a hand to both of their cheeks, softly caressing them and wiping their tears away.

"Sorry ladies...but I...had to do this...for you."

He said as he dropped his hands, the pain he was now feeling causing him to black out, but he was still alive none the less.

"Guards, take him to the medical wing, NOW!"

Both Celestia and Luna shouted, still crying profusely. They knew he would live, but to see him in such a state, it tore at their hearts.

Act 21: The Shadowmancer That Follows His Own Path

Zikel slowly opens his eyes to reveals a pitch black dimension, he sits up from his position and looks around. Seeing absolutely nothing, he gets to his feet and takes a step forwards. He does this a few more times, all ist quiet. He walks forward more, until a shadey whispery voice calls out to him.

"Ah so you are the one named Zikel who we deemed worthy...it is a pleasure to finally speak with you."

The voice came from all directions, it had multiple voices mixed into one, both female and male.

"That's right. I am your master now. But, what is it that you want with me?"

"We are simply letting you know, we are watching your every move. And once you die, you will be joining the ranks of the shadowmancers within the shadow realm to pass on to another. You will not escape us like your father did. So do not go thinking about trying to do so."

"If I wanted to escape you, I wouldn't have done this now would've I?"

The voice chuckled lightly.

"Even so, The maker decided to steal him from us because of how he used his abilities. But your hands are more soaked with blood than your father was. The maker will not take pity on your soul for what you have done."

"Should he or should he not. My intentions are clear. You will now serve me to help me protect those I love. And I will not follow the path of darkness nor light. My own path. So do not think I will be swayed by your whispers. Should my path benefit you in some way, I don't care. I am establishing my rules here and now."

"Very well master. We will follow you in whatever endeavor you seek. And should the Maker see you redeemable. We will make it harder for him to steal your soul from us. We doubt that will happen though."

"You also have to worry about the bonds I share with my eternal lovers. You could be waiting all of time for me to pass on and claim me."

"What...do you mean?"

Zikel couldn't help but grin to himself.

"Now that I am eternally bound to the two sisters whom I had fallen in love with, I now share their immortality. Looks like you didn't do your research on me enough before you entered my body."

A slight growl was heard.

"You may be immortal now, but you aren't invincible..."

"Well of course, that would make things too easy on my part wouldn't it? I would get rather bored if nothing couldn't hurt me. Now then, how about you just be quiet. My loved ones are probably waiting for me to wake up from my enduring trial."

He said as he began to walk on, eventually coming to a bright light and opening his eyes..again, this time seeing a white ceiling. He smiled lightly, knowing exactly where he was. The Canterlot medical wing. As he came to, he felt the warmth of hooves holding each of his hands at his sides. Zikel could only smile slightly, but knowing he was going to get quite the talking to. He gently squeezes their hooves gently in his grip. The princesses lifting their heads from their slumber to see that their dragon had finally awakened. Zikel looked between them both, tears starting to well up in their eyes.

"You...you idiot! How could you have been so reckless?!"

They both shouted at him. But then suddenly leapt onto him and wrapped their forelegs around his form, nuzzling into his chest as tears fell down their cheek. Zikel couldn't help but chuckle on the inside.

"Come on ladies....it needed to be done. I am not going to take any chances with this enemy when it comes to your safety...I care too much for you to let that monster have his way with you."

Luna looked up to him with a serious and sad look on her face.

"Whatever that was Zikel...it kept both me and Tia from even getting to you! It scared me to even get near it!"

Celestia nodded to Zikel, wrapping her arms around him a bit tighter.

"Yes Zikel...it took us nearly an hour to get the door down so we could at least see what was going on. The horror we saw that was happening to you...you were being carved into by an unseen force..the fact that we saw you shed that much blood for...Faust knows what. We were so worried!"

"Tia..Lulu...I am alright. it takes more than that to take me out, silly mares."

The glared up at him for a moment, but then went back into nuzzling and snuggling in closely.

"Just...please don't ever do that again Zikel. If we had lost you..especially since we had just celebrated our mateship...we wouldn't be very happy with you. That's all I am going to say."

"But what you really wanted to say is that I would suffer the wrath of a thousand suns and moons?"

He teased, trying to lighten the mood, That time he got a chuckle from them

"Its more like a million."

"Well, you have to be able to catch a shadow my sweet mares. I have slipped passed you many times before, and I can do it again."

Celestia chuckles lightly, leaning up and kissing him lovingly, Luna doing the same.

"But love. What would ever make you want to slip pass us? Especially all that we offer to you is love and affection?"

"Well who knows. gotta stay on my toes with both of you."

They all laughed. The mares only nuzzled into him more and pressed themselves closer to him.

"When the enemy tries to come and take you from me, I will be ready now...no one is taking happiness away from me again."

They stayed like that for awhile, enjoying to warmth and love that they shared with one another. Zikel looks down at both of them, a smile on his face.

"Zikel...we are rather curious about what was carving those strange markings into your flesh...we couldn't see it at all."

Zikel nodded.

"I wasn't in my body at the time so to speak. I was in the shadow realm. Meeting with my masters."

Both Celestia and Luna blinked at the word 'masters', they leaned in more with curious gazes.

"You have masters? Like others like you who you serve?"

"Asked Luna.Zikel shakes his head.

"I suppose I should have used the term 'Mentors'. And I found out my grandfather was actually one of them. I never got to meet him when he was alive...but...for a brief moment I got to see his face. Despite what he said he had done in his books, he had such a kind face. I was always told that he was a ruthless man who showed no mercy when it came to battle. But his last words were so...caring."

Both Luna and Celestia listened to him as he spoke about his family and his past. Happy to be learning more about their mate, all the while, the shadows in his body gagging at the growing love and affection. Not like they could do anything about it though. Later that evening, Zikel was checked out of the medical wing...most because Celestia and Luna wanted him back in their bed, and his wounds finally recovered. Though the markings that were left on his body were an everlasting remind, that he was to be cautious with his increased shadowmancy abilities.But what else did he gain from the ritual that was performed on his body and soul? He would find out in the training grounds. But, after what had happened, he doubts that Celestia or Luna will let him go there without at least one of them at his side. Though he can't blame them for that. He didn't tell them the whole truth.

"So then mister. I believe you owe me and Lulu some bath time with you. It's the least you can do to make it up to us."

"That's right, we are gonna brush your hair and make you feel all pretty."

Zikel's eyes widened, he backs away slowly and shifts his eyes for anyway out of this situation. He would make upfor what he did, but not like that! They turns around and closed in on him, noticing his behavior, pouncing him before he could make his escape. Lifting him up with their magic combined with wicked smiles.

"Come along, love"

They both said in a melodic tone. Zikel flails and tries to latch his claws into anything that came across his vision, walls, poles, pillars, anything . He clings his claws into a pillar as they pass by it, the mares noticing he wasn't budging and puffs their cheeks out at him with determined stares.

"C'mere you!"

Celestia said as she grabbed hold of his pant legs with her teeth and started pulling, Luna doing the same. The staff watching with both confused and amused looks on their faces. Even the near by guards chuckled a little. This continued until they finally pried him from the pillar. Zikel floating with his arms crossed over his chest, making a slight pouty face. Next thing he knows, he is tossed into the large bath tub once they are in the royal bath. already had been stripped of his clothing. He comes up from the water and spits out some that had gotten in his mouth.

"Hey...I did get injured you know, maybe you two should take it easy on me?"

They both jumped in after him and pounced him, sending all three of them underwater then coming back up. They clung to hsi form happily and nuzzled him.

"You don't seem to be complaining now do you?" Luna asked with a sultry stare, Celestia offering one as well. Once they gave him those stares, Zikelcouldn't be mad at them. They are the most beautiful mares in his eyes.Knowing they would do anything to make him happy, just as he would for them. He didn't care about how his family lineage was dark and murderous back then. Zikel is living his life, his way. And that is to protect those he loves with the power of the shadows. He didn't care if it was part of their agenda or not.

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A Shadow Caught In The Sun

Mature Rated Fiction

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