https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhRP6Ye4iHc

Luna was impressed with Fear. Her eyes held such regard for the young stallion before her that they nearly shimmered. A smile graced her lips, one of amusement and pride, poofing out her chest a bit and extending her wings, floofing them away from her with what feathers were remaining. Within moments, as Fear stood before her with a little bit of discomfort from her gaze, those wings wrapped around him like an angel and held him close. “I'm so proud of you little Fear. You have gotten so good you managed to defeat an umbran. He may have been laying dormant for years, and therefore weak, but you have still done something incredible.” Her wings pulled back and to her sides again.

Fear swallowed hard. “Well I mean, Dad almost got killed, and so did I.”

“Combat always has the potential for casualties. You should keep in mind that there is always a loser when conflict occurs. If there is a winner, there must be a loser.”

Fear considered that, glancing away. “Are Umbrans really that powerful?”

Luna nodded. “In a manner of speaking, yes. They control necromantic energies, negative emotion, and shadows intuitively among other things. They are natural born black mages. They feed on fear, depression, and so many other terrible things.” She held her head with a hoof. “That is why they were sealed all at once in the Frozen North so long ago. Because fighting them one-on-one, especially as a massive force, is impossible. Most ponies who fight them do not live to see another day, and it is only the best heroes of the past who have managed to counter them. It takes not only talent, but skill and hard work.”

“What? They can't possibly be stronger than Solanum was. That guy was super tough.”

Luna hmmed. “To be honest I think his arrogance is what killed him. He did not go all out on you because he underestimated you. Against many foes he would not have held back and would have cut them all down swiftly. Your small size and age aided you that day, little Fear.”

Fear just let out a tiny grunt at that.

“Not that your achievement is something to be taken lightly. In battle you must use every advantage you have to gain the upper hoof. So never belittle yourself, no matter how easy it might have seemed.”

The young stallion thought on Discord's words, their agreement that it was better to rely on your actual abilities instead of crude hat tricks. Still... war was often unfair, he might not be able to feel super happy about himself, but it was either kill or be killed sometimes. Fear glanced back up to Luna. “So what about this little kenaz symbol on the sword?”

Luna didn't even need to see the sword to know what he was talking about. She'd been there for the creation of most of them after all. She had to imbue her personality in each one. “It is the mark of a seal being unlocked. The fact that it is the same symbol as the first in your family tree is mere coincidence.” Luna stated such with full certainty.

Fear didn't much believe in coincidence anymore. Everything was connected, however vaguely.

“Those swords were built with enchantments that would unlock upon receiving an influx of magic, ranging through every rune. Due to the very nature of Umbran souls, the magic they exude would theoretically be enough to unlock one seal at a time and allow you greater control over its hidden capabilities. Provided of course it is the sword that strikes the finishing blow.”

Fear lifted an eyebrow. This sounded way too convenient to be believable. “And why didn't you tell me this sooner? And how is this even possible? I thought you stated the sword couldn't absorb magic?”

Luna grinned at the perceptive young stallion, her eyes lidding. “In order: I did not tell you sooner because I did not think it would ever come up. I did not believe it was need to know information. Back then I hardly had any faith in you if I am being honest, so of course I would not get your hopes up. The idea of you killing something with enough latent power to unlock those abilities was a concept beyond me at the time.” She shook her head. “As for the latter question, I meant that it could not absorb raw magical attacks. Not that it could not absorb magic potential. I am sure your mother, when teaching you the basis of magic in general, learned you that there are two different types.”

Fear grumbled something under his breath. “Y-yeah. She mentioned magic potential is something every creature has in their heart. It's a wellspring of power, usually tied closely to emotional output, and woven with the world around them.”

“Exactly, little Fear. Umbrans have such a large amount of magical potential solely due to their nature as agents of destruction. They are powerful foes and to take one on is normally guaranteed death. I am sure you noticed while you were fighting him that you could not mix your body with the shadows he generated, am I correct?”

Fear nodded. “Y-yeah.” He let out a breath he didn't know he was holding, eyes darting from side to side. “It was like trying to buck through a wall – just impossible. His will and magical power was too strong, and I was sure that if I even tried to mix with them I'd lose myself.”

Luna gave a curt, singular nod. “It is a good choice you did not try to brute force it. As for what the sword is now capable of, I do believe it is a light-based ability. In order to use it you must become one with the sword, pour your whole being into it. It is the same basis behind the Solar Flare spell, matching the wavelength of your inner magic to the magic within the sword. When two wills become one light will build within the blade until it becomes a sort of... flashlight. And then if you focus the energy, a beam will erupt from the sword, akin to a laser, to strike your opponent. It is not particularly... penetrative. But it will burn away armor at the focal point, allowing you to make precision cuts and stabs.”

Fear couldn't help but whistle. “Huh. Guess it's a good thing we've been practicing the Solar Flare.” He looked to the side with narrowed eyes. “Thanks for that I guess.”

Luna nodded. “Certainly, little Fear.”

“Anyways, about Acrid Root?” He asked, his vision returning to acknowledge the princess of moon and death. The incarnation of mirrored light and casted shadows. “As I said he's having trouble remembering a lot of his past, especially the most recent stuff. All he can remember is his family and so far he's been tight-lipped about that. The warning on the screen about brain damage was accurate.”

Luna frowned imperceptibly. “Indeed. He was in cryo for a long time, it is to be expected he would have difficulty with memory at the very least. However, the memory is strange and I am sure aromas, sights, sounds, and in general events will bring some of it back. But I am remorse to say that I do not know too much about Project Ace myself.”

Fear was taken aback, jaw falling open. “Wait, what? Why? How could you not know!?”

Luna simpered shyly. “Eh. I delegated most of those tasks, and did not go over the paperwork of every little thing. I left that up to the Ministry Mares.” She pushed a hoof against the ground. “Further, it has been nearly two hundred years my little Fear. Memories often deteriorate, especially when unmaintained. The sole aspect I recall is that the barrier in the Frozen North was showing signs of degradation. So I began research to put a stop to it. All I know is it was going well.”

Fear considered that, eyes moving to the side and tapping his chin with a hoof. “Hm, well I'll definitely take Acrid with me, get him some fresh air and keep him safe. Help him restore his memory and when he finally gets it all back I'll bring him to the Frozen North to reseal the Umbrans. Sound good?”

“Sounds perfect, little Fear.”

==========================================================================================

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90AABsWh8dU

The simulacrum of the moon Nyx provided for Fear was always the most calming thing he could imagine, so far away from his stressors and worries, so distant from the planet that called out to him and told him how much it was hurting. He was tired of hearing those wails. But here, in this dreamscape, artificially cut off from the world, Fear could be at peace with just himself and the ancient stallion next to him. With only his own agony whispering to him.

“Thanks for taking my, uh... spirit or whatever up here again Nyx.” Fear's voice was grateful. “I know it takes a lot out of you. I still don't quite understand the specifics of it.” The young stallion sat on the creamy dust-covered ground and stared at the... mostly healthy planet beneath them.

“You're welcome Fear. And all I'm doing is temporarily severing your consciousness from your body and bringing you to the moon with me. Could not be simpler.” Nyx gave a soft shake of his head, his voice a tad tired and mostly respectful. “It only takes a lot out because I have to make sure your body doesn't decline without you there. You could almost call it a sort of... possession,” he stated while holding a hoof against his chin.

Fear grimaced. “Please don't try to explain it to me, it's creepy enough as is.” Fear lifted a hoof, glancing down and to the side while holding it out against the stallion. “Anyways, why the moon of all places? You never told me.”

Nyx narrowed his draconic eyes and smiled. “Well, for one, it was the closest thing to Equus that I could travel to.” The stallion's voice flowed naturally like the waves against a cliffside, battering against it and breaking off rocks over time. His tone could erode any will. “It was supposed to be devoid of most, if not all life so I would not have to deal with the emotions of others. Finding the nightmares here was sort of souring, but I dealt with it. They hardly ever bother me due to how much I've disciplined myself and worked through my problems, and their emotions are nil and hardly affect the overall atmosphere. Besides, the view is really extravagant, don't you think Fear?”

Fear firmly nodded a few times, barely moving at all. “Yeah. I wish someone could paint it. But to be honest? I don't think a mere painting could ever do it justice. There's just so much expanse out here, so much context. It can't be replicated.” Fear threw his forelegs out, gesturing to it all.

Nyx merely gave a bob of his head in response. “You wished to know more about the umbrans, correct?”

“Y'eh. If you're up for a history lesson.”

“Without a doubt.” Nyx adjusted himself a little, rooting around in place to get comfortable before speaking. “The umbrans were much like the wendigos, but far more active in their approach. Instead of subtly swaying creatures into disharmony and hatred, they would take a concrete role in bringing others to their peak positivity only to tear them down moments later, swiping it all away, and siphoning their despair for sustenance and power, with the ability to lay dormant like tardigrades waiting for the conditions to be just right to revive.”

There was a pause as Nyx let that sink in. Fear did not like this new sink.

“They will bring creatures back to life solely so they can tear them back down once more. They will revive your loved ones simply to hold it over your head, and torture you with their existence. They have become powerful beyond what you could imagine, and they will stop at nothing to see their ends met, to reign over everything. They do not hesitate to make examples out of rebels because it only gives them more power watching others break under the weight of their acts.” Nyx gave a shake of his head as if he could not believe the monstrosity either. “They will put on a facade simply to lull you into a false sense of security and follow their whims, and then crush you when you least expect it. They will leash you and hold you down.”

Fear didn't like this at all. It gave him goosebumps, his form shuddering from the distinct sensation all was not right with the world. How could anything like this be allowed to live?

“In my time on Equus I only befriended one, and he had taken on the form of a pony so that he may be able to live life alongside them. Though I should say it was more along the lines that he took a foal as a host and subsumed their original mind. He only revealed the truth to me at the very end, telling me that he appreciated our time together and he apologized for deceiving me. He had been feeding on my struggles from the beginning, and had played his cards right to get into natural born arguments with me without breaking apart our relationship. He knew I was young, desperate for companionship. And used that against me. In the end, he let go of his pony host and I never heard from him again.” Nyx let out a large sigh. Fear found the whole explanation a little vague.

“So how did these things come to be, anyway? Do you know? How could a travesty like this be allowed to exist?”

Nyx's lips curled up slightly. “They originated in the desolate Frozen North. I do not know their exact birth, though there are theories. Some say they are the descendants of creatures who settled long before it was ever covered in unending blizzards and that they had become tainted with evil, or they had evolved into the only thing that would enable them to survive. Others say they are born when enough negative energy fills a piece of quartz that it can no longer be contained and fosters a will of its own. Either way, they are a force to be reckoned with, and they were re-invoked soon after ponies used magic to settle once more in that makers-forsaken land.”

Fear looked back toward Equus and let out a low whistle. He wasn't sure which origin story he preferred, but the one involving evolution seemed the most plausible. Could negative energy really gain a will of its own? To the point of becoming so intelligent and cruel? Were the umbrans essentially ghosts made up of ill will? Fear shuddered again.

==========================================================================================

“So,” Saway's raspy voice sounded out, her ever lingering glare settling on Fear. “I hear you fought an umbran.” A smile creeped onto her face, something sinister. “You really are a piece of work you know that, Fear?”

The young stallion leaned to one side, held a hoof out, and cocked his head to the other. “Well all this effort better be going toward something because if not I'm gonna have a fit.” There was a sassy smirk split across his face.

Saway gave a little humph and bumped Fear's shoulder with a hoof, making his body jostle slightly. “You better not do anything to disappoint me. After all you've done you're my new hero.” There was a hint of anxiety laced in her violent voice. “You keep me informed and keep doing you.”

Fear's grin only increased in intensity. “Sure thing Saway. I'm trying my best.” He would have nuzzled into her but knew Saway preferred a no touch policy most of the time. “So, apparently I'm going to be heading to the Frozen North eventually. In case any umbrans manage to snake out of their seal do you have any advice on how I can beat them back?”

Saway shook her head, a frown creasing against her lips. “Unfortunately I only have for you what I've heard. But I suppose that's better than nothing.”

“Sure. Shoot away.” Fear shrugged a shoulder nonchalantly.

“For one, you need to learn to control your fears. They use nightmare pressure almost exclusively from what I hear. They're like malevolent spirits in that they feed off the negative energy you exude, so the more you freeze up from what they put out, the stronger they become. An umbran who hasn't spent a lot of time laying dormant will be incredibly skilled at growing stronger the longer you fight them. So, best thing to do is to end the battle asap no matter what it takes.”

Ugh, Fear couldn't help but feel as if umbrans were sounding impossible. Everything he heard made them out to be insurmountable.

“They'll probably go easy on you solely to get you to let your guard down, and then strike when it hurts the most. Then, if that doesn't kill you or break your spirit, they'll use that emotional reaction to power themselves up and go at you even harder until you're begging for mercy.”

“Guh. What, so my sensitivity is going to be my undoing? Is that what you're telling me?”

Saway lifted her shoulders, twisting her head to the side. “Hey, don't talk to me that way Fear. I've been working on disciplining you for years but you're nearly impossible.” Then she smiled. “But I suppose that just means any umbrans who go up against you are going to have a hard time too.” There was a sly, conniving glint in her eye.

Fear couldn't help but brim with vim and vigor, smiling even wider at that. “Well after all I've been through it'd be absolute bullshit if I was stopped now.”

“That it would be, Fear. As for tactics, I don't recommend trying to overpower them. You're going to want to outthink them. They may be devils in all but name but they are hardly the most intelligent creature around. And from what I've seen of you, pressure's always making you come up with weird maneuvers at the last second. Just make sure you don't get caught in their shadows again and you'll be fine.”

Fear let out a grunt. “Yeah. Dad or me could've probably turned into something small when we were caught before, but then those binds would have just crushed us. As I was leaving, Princess Luna told me she'd teach me a flashbang spell alongside the solar flare.”

Saway laughed, her chest spasming as she let out guffaw after guffaw, calming down long after she started.

“What's so funny?”

“Nothing, Fear. But if you had the nightmares fused to your soul like I do you could probably overpower those shadows without using light. However, your sister was a prodigy in the making, using a flashbang spell on me unintentionally when I first fought her.”

Fear's face went slack, kind of dumbfounded. “What? She did? How?”

Saway's teeth bared on one side of her mouth in a hostile smile. “It was an accident. She mixed telekinesis with a light spell and fired it at me. The only reason it did so much damage was due to the dreamkiller laced into it. Any of those elements on their own would have done nothing.” The mare shivered. “She really was talented when it came to manipulating dreams.”

Fear couldn't help but smile, cocking his head to the side and closing his eyes, cheeks rising. “Heh, it's good to know she's so clever. I really miss that side of her.”

There was a moment's silence as they both reminisced silently. Finally Saway spoke up. “I'm sure someday she'll come back to us. She can't remain high and mighty forever.”

“I sure hope so,” Fear sighed dejectedly.

==========================================================================================

Freiya lifted a hoof and smacked it across Fear's face. “You need to be more careful!” The mare's face was in full blush mode, completely flustered.

Fear just rubbed at his cheek. “Yeah I know. I know.” He didn't know what else to say, just staring at the ground.

The mare before Fear took in a deep breath, her chest rising a few inches, before she let it all flow out, keeping her eyes closed. “I'm sorry Fear, it's just... so many ponies would be sad if something terrible happened to you, Sim, or any of the others. We don't get to spend much time together but if the worst case scenario does happen we'll never get to have any of that again.”

The young stallion wanted to point out that everypony died eventually, if only to defend himself, and how his grandma would probably be reaching the end of her life soon by natural means. But he knew it was a hollow sentiment. He cared just as much as her. “Yeah I get'cha. I'm trying my best to keep everyone and myself safe.”

Freiya breathed in again, holding the air, trying to calm down. “I know Fear. I know you're trying your best and it's natural you're going to get into all sorts of trouble at your age... your grandpa was one of our best scavvers and he was always getting into trouble. I think he might've actually met an umbran once upon a time. His silver tongue always got him out of everything.” Freiya crossed a foreleg over her chest, the other holding her head.

“R-really? Did he ever tell you specifics?” The young stallion stared at Freiya's dream self with wide eyes.

“Oh, certainly. He spoke of a pony that came to him, always trying to start trouble, always coming off as wiser than her years. That pony followed my dear Silver around like a ghastly specter, bringing about trouble wherever they went. My honey didn't mind... too much, so long as Yotta kept it to a specific time and place. She always ended up surprising him with just what she was capable of in battle and had helped him a couple of times with her sadistic ways. He assumed she was a raider but he said she just had a sort of... sense about her.”

“A sense?” Fear tilted his head to the side curiously.

“Yeah. Said she always seemed calm, cool, and in control. Very devious. She was hardly as excitable as a raider, as if she was always just putting on an act. They parted ways soon after Silver told her he was returning to the stable to bring back his haul. Then again it probably wasn't an umbran at all given the fact she didn't want to bring terrible things to the Stable.”

Fear grunted. “Yeah, probably not. Likely just a strange mare.”

==========================================================================================

The young stallion was more nervous than he ever had been before. Picking up mares and stallions for the sake of the job was one thing, but actually doing it for pleasure? In moments like these all his training went out the window and he was completely paralyzed. Why had Gentler insisted on getting him laid right before they left? Was it because he felt bad he'd almost died, or was it as some sort of gift? Fear's ears flicked above him as he held his head in a hoof, leaning on an 'elbow' on a familiar table. He perked up, listening to Gentler's smooth Abyssinian voice, full of stoicism across Scavver's Tavern.

“So you see, he's incredibly naive but you should definitely meet him. Come on, what do you say?”

Fear glanced back to the wall as Gentler tried to pick up a mare and make him out to be worse than he actually was so she'd be impressed. He knew Gentler's tricks – he'd tried to teach the young stallion them. But no matter what he did he was still just... so uncomfortable. He knew at this rate he was just going to end up dumping the mare ASAP. Fear glanced to the side, clucking his tongue and narrowing his eyes. This was a terrible idea. Why had he agreed to this? His heart hammered in his chest. He wasn't ready to move on yet, not onto another mare. He still had feelings for Amelio. Something would probably happen to this mare too. She'd probably end up sacrificing herself as well.

Irrationally, Fear couldn't help but expect that of every single significant other who took pleasure in him. If he built a relationship they'd just be disappointed. No matter how much he mindlessly practiced all the crafts he'd been taught, it felt better to see others as a source of transaction than a potential mate. Fear's body was shaking as his thoughts pervaded. He couldn't help but feel like everyone was staring at him with a combination of derision and indifference. Only when he was on the job did he get the sensation ponies wanted to be with him, because of how he held himself. It was all an act.

Fear was an impostor. It was all for the job, nothing more.

Fear didn't love himself. How could he?

It was at that moment the mare Gentler had been needling into came up to the table Fear was sitting at and sat down. She swept her bronze mane away from her eyes, revealing the pools of honey that were her brown eyes, her caramel coat finely groomed. She hardly even had a smell to her. Fear looked away, tapping his forehooves together.

“So you're Fear huh? Kinda cute in person. I'm Choco Chalk, it's nice to meet you.” Choc sounded sweet enough, her voice easy on the ears.

But Fear couldn't take it anymore. “I-I'm sorry. This was a mistake.” He shoved the chair outward. “Maybe we can get together another time Miss Choco.” Fear's eyes were downtrodden, his face tense and slack at the same time. He stood up, gave a little bow, and hurried off as Gentler facepalmed.

Choco was left with a dumbstruck expression, then she soured. A moment later she shrugged, her eyes meeting Gentler's and giving him a little wink as if she'd assumed he was just too shy.

Fear meanwhile knew for a fact he'd screwed up, constantly rubbing a foreleg over the other as his teeth chattered from frayed nerves. Choco was probably berating him for walking out on her like that, for disappointing her, for not being good enough. He was terrible. I'm horrible he chastised himself. She didn't deserve that – doesn't deserve me. Fear stepped out of Scavver's Tavern and looked up at the cloud cover above, letting out a sigh.

Gentler met up with him a moment later. “Fear what's wrong? Why'd you leave? Everything was perfect!”

Fear didn't look Gentler in the eyes, just rubbing and holding himself like he couldn't get comfortable, gnawing on his lower lip. “Gen... I just can't. She couldn't possibly love me. And even if she did it'd never work out.” Fear had seen so many one-night stands, and those that lingered were just purely business. Feelings of ugliness coursed through him. Fear was good at what he did, but he couldn't get close. Not to anyone. Not any longer. Suddenly every bit of dirt and grime meant so much more, able to feel it on his fur. A sigh of self loathing escaped his lips. “I'm disgusting. I'm too young to be wanted by anyone. It's too soon.” Fear came up with all sorts of excuses to avoid it.

Gentler was left in a stupor as he stared at Fear. “Well, if you're really not ready I won't push it. Just know sometimes you gotta throw yourself in no matter how you feel. Just get in and go. You won't know the outcome until you do it. That's what you taught me at least. I'll see you tomorrow Fear. Just know you're not too young. You can do whatever the fuck you want to do.”

Fear was the one who left Gentler standing there, thinking on his words, calling back over his shoulder, “thanks.” He had a lot to think about. A lot to deal with. So many emotions – tons of thoughts.

==========================================================================================

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XUUdMtPZ1xg

Despite everything Fear was feeling, now wasn't the time to dwell. He had a lot of obstacles ahead of him and he'd be damned if he let emotions bring him down because of it. His family was all gathered together in front of the farm house, preparing to leave. Gentler, Faith, and Acrid behind him conversing about all their plans for where they were going next, everything they'd decided on.

Jack was the first to give Fear a great big ol' hug, using telekinesis to squeeze a little tighter, his horn lighting up with an orange field of magic. “Have fun in Maneami. Try some drugs if you get the chance, but do it responsibly. It's a once in a lifetime thing, but if you have a bad reaction it'll be the last thing you do.” He let Fear go and stepped away.

“Thanks Grandpa. I'll think about it. Thanks again for the stories, I'll see you later.” He twisted around to face Emulae next.

Emulae spoke to Fear with a penchant for liveliness. “It's been such a pleasure having you around Fear, I'll always remember the battles of wits we always had.” She lifted a foreleg and bopped Fear on the noggin. “You take care of yourself, we'd all hate if anything happened to you.”

The young stallion gave a grateful nod and smiled. “You bet'cha Grandma. Thanks again for the map.”

Emulae shrugged a shoulder. “Eh. That world map from my old hive better come in use for something.”

Fear commented readily. “It's a lot of information to be honest. Makes me glad I don't keep a bunch of knowledge in my memory pocket. Whatever you want to call it.”

Sim came up next and swept a foreleg around Fear's neck and pulled him into his chest. “The Viola hive has infiltrated nearly every single place, even a few Steel Ranger hideouts from what I know.”

Viola nodded. “Indeed, you wouldn't believe how difficult it can be to act like a scribe. Only place I don't think we've been is above the clouds! Hard to take the place of a pegasus, even for a little while given they hardly ever come down.”

Fear thought on that for a few moments. “Well, thanks anyway. It's pretty incredible knowing I have all this at my hooftips. I love you guys.”

Jack was busy pulling out some boxes of sunflower seeds he'd prepared for them to take with them. “Make sure not to eat too many of these in one place y'all. Just a few should be filling enough. Keep them for an emergency.” He floated a box to Fear last, while Acrid was busy sticking his in the new saddlebags he'd been bought.

Mirage came up to Fear next, who turned around to see her as he levitated the box into his bags. “Keep on the look out for new vinyl records, please.” Her stutter was next to non-existent around Fear nowadays. She then reached up and gave him an innocent, yet affectionate, peck on the cheek before gesturing to a jar next to her. “T-take this with you please.” Okay maybe not totally non-existent.

Fear held it up in his magic at eye level, staring into it at the clear jelly-like fluid inside. “What is it?”

“Changeling aphrodisiac. It has ten applications in there. W-works like gel. You can either sell it or use it for whatever your imagination thinks of.” And with that she quietly slipped away.

“Th-thanks!” Fear called out after her as Chirp bolted right up to Fear, snuggle-tackling into him and nearly bowling him over, eyes squeezed shut and tail flicking to the side. Holding him in the type of bear hug only an earth pony could give.

“Make sure to be safe! I'm gonna be worrying about you all the time! Visit us in our dreams! You're my only nephew and I can't have you getting killed!”

Fear just lightly blushed and pat Chirp on the back. “I'll miss you too Chirp, you take care as well.”

Chirp snorted up some phlegm in an ugly way and pulled off so Rose could have a chance at him.

Fear couldn't help but smile a little brighter at seeing Rose, his grin becoming doofy.

“I will make sure to give you another of my patented massages once you get back Fear,” Rose stated simply, a small smile gracing her lips. Fear could already feel the kinks forming in his muscles, a needy sensation overcoming him. Man he was going to miss those massages the most. Thankfully he'd learned just how Rose did it so he could mimic it on others, but he'd always miss it from her.

The young stallion's vision swept over everyone, before hooking around back to his saddlebags, rifle, and sword. A memory floated into his mind.

==========================================================================================

Storm knelt down close to her son Fear, the smallest colt imaginable as they hunkered on top of a hill. She was helping the colt hold her rifle, the butt of it sitting in the crook of her left shoulder, her right foreleg lashed around the underside and supporting it. Fear laid on his tummy with his right foreleg held under it, the thing too big to hold against his own shoulder, and kept the sten-like bit trigger safely in his maw. Mother and son, side by side, with Fear staring down the scope, craning his neck upwards to reach.

Through the scope Fear spied a skittering rad roach, occasionally scuttling along only to stop and waggle its antennae around as it tried to figure out where it wanted to go next, searching for trash. Its movements were erratic and sinuous, but with Storm's guidance Fear was able to keep a lock on it as they both remained as silent as a mouse. Storm putting most of the strength into moving the Garand and Fear guiding the process. When he was sure he had the shot lined up, he stilled and pulled the trigger.

BAM!

As Fear watched through the scope the radroach suddenly spasmed, a bullet penetrating its face. It tried to jump and scatter, but soon enough it flopped forward and buzzed a few times, its legs kicking weakly before it became motionless.

Fear yipped and hurrayed in his squeaky voice, getting up off the ground as an empty bullet casing rolled across the ground, sitting on his haunches and throwing his forelegs into the air banzai style. “YEAH! I DID IT! MOMMY I DID IT IT I SHOT THE RADROACH!” Fear whooped and hollered as Storm looked on with pride in her eyes and a knowing smirk.

“Congratulations my little Nightlight, you're getting so much better!”

==========================================================================================

Acrid had been silent for awhile as their journey came underway. Thinking about the events leading up to all this. He was... pretty sure he could trust Fear – he was the one who killed the... Umbran was it? They'd also been the ones to release him, and had escorted him back to Dryfield, filling him on what his objective was supposed to be, a faint memory he had. He sort of recalled the objective when he'd gone under. He recalled his family, but he wouldn't tell anyone about that. Trying to get his mind off his anxieties, he decided to ask questions. “So. Dryfield.” He began. Immediately all heads spun to look at him as easily as if he'd said something rather potent. “What exactly is it? Why do you all live there?”

Gentler was the first to speak up. “It's a rather accepting place all in all. Not going to find many raiders wandering around trying to steal your pelt off your back.”

Fear agreed with a grunt. “They're very accepting of changelings which is nice, and there's hardly ever a dull moment. Ponies are often passing through on their way to other places in the desert, and it also tends to get a lot of traffic solely for being one of the only places that has fresh food.”

Acrid latched onto part of that. He had a confident air about him that reminded Fear of his sister, someone whose word was law as far as they were concerned. And like his sister, he had a swaying, almost hypnotic facet to him when he used the right tone. “By the way, changelings are kind of gross and weird. I remember that much from my history. They were always out to get everyone. But you saved me so I'm going to give you a chance Fear.” There was a slight hostility in his voice that was not lost on the young stallion.

Gentler chortled. “What, you not like bugs much growing up?”

Faith seemed hesitant, not really liking Acrid much, moving up to Fear and draping a foreleg over his shoulders to comfort him from the cutting remarks.

“No,” Acrid started. “I didn't. All they ever do is hide under rocks and run away from you when you're about to step on them. And they were always feasting on my parents' crops. They're a nuisance.”

Fear cowered away from Acrid a little. Even if Acrid reminded him of his sister, that didn't mean he was nearly as kind.

Acrid continued, quickly changing the subject. “You mentioned something about going to Abyssinia, Gentler? What's it like? I've heard they have a few cities scattered around, and they're keen fishers. But that's about it.”

Gentler just shot Acrid a rebellious look before answering. “Well that's it mostly. We specialize in magical gems and enchantments, lyrical spells and tapestries among other things. We have an eye for design, and... well. You'll probably see if we make it there.”

Acrid wondered how they could be so cavalier about potentially going straight into death. “You're awfully cavalier about heading straight to your own death, any reason you're unconcerned?” The stallion, maybe a couple years older than Fear, blinked once.

Faith responded readily. “We trust Fear a lot. Not much more to it than that. Together we're an unstoppable force.”

Acrid's disbelief showed on his face. “Just 'cause he beat an umbran doesn't make him anything special.” There was a sort of guffy edge to his voice.

After a moment's silence, Acrid spoke up again with the same abrasive tone. “I remember some street preachers from Equestria during the war. A lot of them got rounded up by the Ministry of Morale. I saw more than a couple get hauled off. It's weird knowing that's allowed now, but also refreshing to know you're doing it for a good cause, Faith.” There was a compliment hidden in there.

Faith was a bit irritated but took what she could get. “Thank you Acrid. I try my best. I feel everyone needs someone there for them. I put myself out there so that others might be willing to come up to me and ask me questions so I can get to know them and be part of their life.”

Acrid was curious about that, not familiar with street preachers wanting to get to know someone. Then he looked to Fear, his curiosity only piquing at seeing the young stallion. “Fear, why would you choose to help me despite me not liking you? What do you hope to gain?” There was a suspicious tone.

Fear could tell Acrid was just anxious. He understood where his traveling companion was coming from. “It hurts sure. But I learned recently that I base my self worth on how I treat others.”

Acrid rose an eyebrow. That ruined the magic somewhat of being selfless, he thought.

“It's why killing in cold blood bothers me so much.” He glanced away from Acrid, staring straight ahead. “And I've learned that in the end we define our trauma, our trauma doesn't define us. We are better in spite of it, not because of it. You're supposed to let it wash over you – let those emotions dribble down your awareness like water from a shower, then dry yourself off with the laughter of better times. Just because you don't like me doesn't mean I have to not like you back. I can treat you with respect and dignity, and while again it hurts, I've come a long way and don't hurt others just because they do it to me.”

Acrid gazed at Fear appreciatively for a few moments.

“I have barely enough confidence in myself to keep my head high despite what others say nowadays, but it's still something. Back when I fought Solanum...”

Solanum? Acrid thought. Another question for another day.

“...I took what those changelings...”

Oh. A special changeling perhaps?

“...had to say about me to heart, and because of that I didn't care if they ended up dying or not. But I've learned I can care about them despite that. It's not their fault they felt that way. I have some confidence in myself, and others have confidence in me.”

Acrid was left thinking about Fear's words. As non-sequitur as they sometimes felt. As revolting as Fear seemed at first, he could... probably be trusted.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1mH0pNw6yw

I just wanted to spend some time elaborating on Fear and Amelio's personalities here. This isn't required reading or anything, and isn't even specifically about this chapter, so feel free to ignore.

While I was speaking with a friend the prospect of playing dress up came up and I was explaining how Amelio doesn't do dress up for fun even though she enjoys it. It's all professionalism for her, and that's how it stays. For Fear, he enjoys it because it's fun and because his naturally low self esteem makes feeling pretty or handsome incredibly appealing.

Also I'm sorry to say, but as far as I see it Fear needs to lose his mother or undergo some other struggle in order to start the journey toward reaching his full potential. Even if it's him growing up in the stable and going out on his first scavenging hunt all on his own. He needs both the drastic change and the emotional influx in order to gain his cutiemark and form control over his magic.

In non-FoE universes Fear usually gains his cutiemark because while he's away from Canterlot visiting his grandparents in Ponyville, he ends up entering the Everfree Forest in order to prove his courage and show his bullies that he's a strong little colt. Whenever he does he always meets a trapped ghost who guides him back out and helps him realize that, while he may be courageous, he needs to be careful because there are ponies who DO indeed care about him, even if it doesn't always feel like it. Not only that, but he was being selfish and mean by forcing his presence on the monsters of the Everfree and causing such a disturbance. Also, as an addition, Fear often ends up applying to Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns in order to show his bullies he's someone to be respected, but almost always ends up failing the test because he's just not what they're looking for.

Amelio always gains her cutiemark in some simple, small way that involves making a grand, sweeping change while being at peace.

Speaking of her, it's unfortunate I probably won't get to portray it in this story, but Amelio usually smokes as a matter of fact, be it sweet smelling herbs or actual cigarettes. It's my headcanon she feels it makes her look more refined, though she only smokes for special occasions, keeping the addiction in check otherwise. She either uses a cigarette holder or a kiseru. No matter what it is, it's usually styled in the vein of a hissing changeling head made of ebony wood, with sapphire or amethyst eyes, pink topaz forked tongue, and moonstone fangs. It's one of the few things Amelio takes pride in as far as aesthetic goes. Gives her a sense of feeling powerful and in charge. Especially given in the wasteland only the wealthy can afford such a bad habit.