Chapter 19

Something soft and warm is felt lying on top of me and I slowly open my eyes to see what it is. To my delight, my lovely little lavender lover is splayed entirely on my body and her muzzle is inches away from my lips and I can smell her breath. I inhale and get a whiff of it, a little sweet and minty which made sense since Twilight likes to brush her teeth very often. I tilt my head slightly to look down and see we’re both completely stark which reminded me we had made love again last night which made me smile but only briefly since last week’s report came to mind. Another city was liberated, San Pranciscolt, by this Angel’s Saint. What’s more is that it’s the same as Seaddle where most of the residents were taken and brought to who knows where the Saint was hiding. I could understand why he would be saving the slaves and brainwashed, but why would he waste his time taking the traitors, even the Caribou for that matter? Whoever he is, he’s been making a bit of name for himself since he’s taken two major cities already.

Twilight hums in her sleep and nuzzles into my chest and I smile again as I bring my hand up to pet her mane. I look to my right and see that the sun is about to rise so I slowly but surely scoot my way from under Twilight and replace my body with a pillow, to which she hugs closely and mumbles my name, making me stifle a chuckle. I climb out of bed and stretch my limbs and wings, getting multiple satisfying pops here and there, put my boxers back on, and walk towards the window. I open it to air out the room and take in a deep breath of the fresh air. The cold early winter wind blows against my skin as I look at the growing town of Ponyville. Thanks to all the former slaves and brainwashed we freed, the town has had more houses built in order to keep up with the growing population. I’ve even got requests from some of the original townsfolk who escaped to Canterlot to come back to Ponyville, to which I was able to meet Mayor Mare who expressed her gratitude to me and was glad to be back in her office. I even reconnected with Lyra who introduced me to her marefriend Bon Bon, who I already knew anyway, and she bragged to Bon Bon that she had always known humans existed to which I just smiled amused at the couple. But once again my thoughts were brought back to the Saint and how he was operating which made me frown and look up to the sky with an annoyed look.

“They had their chance to repent but they squandered it.” I said aloud. “And now you send someone to try and prove me wrong by having him take in even the enemy? Either he’s the misguided one or you are, Michael.”

My words seemed to have awoken a certain mare in the room, making glance over my shoulder and see Twilight raise her head and rub her eyes with her hand. I looked back to the town to resume my thoughts as I heard her yawn cutely.

“Mmm, Lock…?” Twilight muttered.

“Morning, sleeping beauty. Sleep well?” I ask.

Twilight climbs off the bed and I hear her walk up to me and stand next to me with her undergarments back on.

“You kinda surprised me last night, any reason why you wanted to do it again?” I ask. I didn’t have to look at her to see that she was blushing.

“Well…it’s just I’ve been helping Mayor Mare with rebuilding Ponyville and expanding it, not to mention rehabilitating the former slaves and brainwashed you brought back, so I just needed a little stress relief.” Twilight admitted.

“So that’s what I am to you now?” I accuse, arching a brow while glancing at Twilight. “All I offered was to give you a massage and the next thing I know, you’re straddling me.”

“I-No! I mean, yes? No wait, no!” Twilight stutters as her wings twitch. I chuckle and wrap my wing around her and bring her close.

“You’re adorkable, you know that?” I tease. Twilight crosses her arms under her bust and huffs trying to look unaffected by my wing’s embrace.

“You’re mean.” Twilight pouts.

“And?” I question while poking her cheek.

“…You’re not making this easy.” Twilight huffs.

“Now what gave that away?” I ask innocently.

Twilight sighs and leans her head on my chest as I bring my other wing around and hug her close. She then looks up at me and smiles as I lean down and peck her on the lips.

“You’re impossible to stay mad at.” Twilight said.

“And you love me for it.” I counter.

“So which city are you going to liberate next?” Twilight asks.

“I’ve gotten reports that the Caribou are gonna move a shipment of slaves and contraband out of Salt Lick City. It’ll arrive later today so we’ll make our move during the night while the enemy slumbers and is not on guard. For now I’ve got a few errands to do around here plus I need to make a stop at Canterlot.” I explain.

“Canterlot? What for?” Twilight wonders.

“Believe it or not, Celestia and Luna wanna talk with me about something.” I answer.

“Do you…still not trust them?” Twilight asks.

I paused at this question and thought to myself. It’s been a while since I confronted them about the Heat Season and they apologized to me, they even agreed to make those new laws I wanted them to establish. I’ve heard there was some protest from the nobles but I guess they passed the laws anyway just to prove they wanted to be trusted again. Granted I thought that they only did that to get on my good side, but when I took Twilight back to Canterlot so she could check in with her parents they were coincidentally visiting them to see how they’re fairing after Shining’s passing. Meeting Twilight’s parents was a bit unnerving because I thought they’d reject the idea of someone like me dating their daughter, Celestia especially since Twilight is like a daughter to her. But surprisingly they were all very supportive of our relationship and Night Light even welcomed me into the family.

When Celestia told me that she too has supported me being with Twilight, I could tell that she has changed for the better ever since my little rant towards her and Luna. She even told me that Luna was taking care of any unruly nobles who were still against the laws preventing them from hunting down any stallion they wanted to mate with just to satiate their heat. Hearing this made me smile and tell her that she and Luna had come a long way and I was proud of them for it.

“Hmm, to be honest, I guess they deserve a second chance. I might even accept their friendship since they have done so much to regain my trust.” I said.

“You really mean that?” Twilight asks.

“So long as they keep their promise and don’t try to jump me when the next Heat comes along then I don’t think there should be a problem.” I said.

“I’m glad to hear that.” Twilight said. “By the way, you seemed a little lost in thought for a while after you returned from the Everfree Forest last week, didn’t you take care of the Caribou who were hiding out in there?”

My hand twitches and I get a little nervous as to what I could possibly tell her. I didn’t want to lie, but at the same time I didn’t want to risk causing problems for my secret acquaintance hiding out in the Castle of the Two Sisters. Twilight looked up at me with curiosity which made it harder for me to keep it to myself. So with no other option, I decided to tell her the truth and hopefully she wouldn’t freak out. I sigh and unwrap my wings from Twilight and furl them as I walk back to the bed and sit on the edge.

“Twilight, can you make me a pinkie promise that you keep what I’m about to tell you to yourself?” I request.

“A pinkie promise? But why?” Twilight wonders as she walks up and sits next to me.

“I can’t tell you unless you pinkie promise me.” I repeat. Twilight tilts her head but nods.

“I promise I won’t tell anypony. Cross my heart and hope to fly, stick a cupcake in my eye.” Twilight said while doing the gesture.

“Thank you.” I said and then took a deep breath. “Last week, I found the stockade hiding out in the ruins of the Castle of the Two Sisters.”

“They were hiding out in such a sacred place?” Twilight asks in an irritated tone.

“Yes, naturally I dispatched the lot and sent the few survivors packing. But after I did I sensed something there, or rather someone, hiding in the shadows.” I said.

“Who was it?” Twilight asked, now sounding nervous.

“Twilight.” I start, looking her in the eye. “She lives, your old foe, Nightmare Moon is still alive.”

Twilight’s eyes slowly widened as she covered her mouth. She then stood up and backed away from me which made me a little worried.

“Nightmare Moon…is still alive?” Twilight asks shakily.

“Yeah, she’s in the castle ruins as we speak.” I confirm.

“What did she do when you met her?” Twilight wonders.

“Well not much, actually.” I said. “We just talked and she didn’t really seem threatening, despite her reputation.”

“You’re lying.” Twilight whispered.

“Huh?” I reply.

“I said you’re lying!” Twilight snaps. “There’s no way she didn’t threaten you! Did she cast a spell on you? Did she manipulate you into getting on your good side? Maybe she’s possessed you and she’s posing as the stallion I love!”

“Hey now, that’s going a little too far.” I said, standing up to face her. “She didn’t cast any spell or try to manipulate me in any way. Besides, why accuse me of lying when you know who I work for?”

“What does that have to do with anything?!” She accuses me.

“Because like The Devil himself, I too make it an obligation not to lie. So please believe me when I say that Nightmare Moon is not a threat.” I said.

“But how can you be so sure about that?” Twilight accuses. “She tried to plunge the world in eternal night not once but twice. How is she even still alive in the first place?”

“I’m well aware of what she did, Twilight. Believe me I was a bit hesitant myself to trust her, I’m still kinda on the fence to be honest.” I reply. “But after everything that’s happened of late she told me she no longer wishes to see through to her original plan. I even convinced her that she made a poor judgment call which is why she and Luna were banished to the moon in the first place. It’s like how I’ve given Celestia and Luna a second chance, Nightmare also deserves one and I’ve given her just that.”

Twilight was about to retort but she knew I made a valid point. Despite what she and her friends had been through, Nightmare is still a split personality of Luna. I figured Twilight would be the easiest one to break the news to and despite the rocky start, I’d have to say she’s taking it better than I expected.

“Dimitri, can you please tell me that this won’t end in a disaster? And that you have everything with Nightmare Moon under control?” Twilight sighs while pinching the bridge of her muzzle.

“You have my word, Twilight, Nightmare is my responsibility and I will make sure she won’t complicate things more than they already are.” I reassure her. She steps towards me and leans up to kiss me on the lips to which I return.

“I just worry about you Dimitri, if somepony like Nightmare Moon is still around I can’t help but be worried for you.” Twilight said.

“You’re sweet for worrying about me Twilight. I promise, everything is gonna be fi-”

“NO! NO! NO! A THOUSAND TIMES NO, ZEPHYR BREEZE!!!” We hear Fluttershy screech at the top of her lungs, scaring the daylights out of us.

“Ugh…it’s too fricken early for this shit.” I grumble.

After getting dressed, I walk down the halls with Twilight and we’re met with more of Fluttershy’s screams, making Twilight curiously worried and me just plain annoyed. We eventually make it to the source of the screaming, which was Zephyr’s room, and I knock on the door.

“Come in!” Fluttershy called out, still sounding agitated.

“Oh this should be interesting.” I grumble as I open the door.

I open the door and am met with an extremely agitated looking Fluttershy, a nervous yet also a little angered Zephyr, and their parents off to the side looking nervous and unsure how to respond.

“So…mind telling me why you two are going at it this early in the morning?” I question while crossing my arms.

“Lock! Thank goodness you’re here!” Zephyr said.

“Don’t you dare, Zephyr!” Fluttershy snapped as they both approached me.

“I told you, sis, I made my decision!” Zephyr counter.

“We just got you back and you wanna do something so stupid?!”

“It’s not stupid! It’s completely justified!”

“How is risking your life justified?!”

I couldn’t take the shouting and the constant ringing in my ear so I reach out and grab both their mouths.

“Now I’m gonna let go of your lips, and when I do, you both will tell me what it is you need to tell me, understood?” I demand in a calm tone. They both nod and I slowly release my grip.

“I/HE WANT/S TO BE YOUR APPRENTICE!” They both shout in my face.

Twilight gasped and I stood there completely blown away. Surely I must’ve misheard, right? I mean there’s no way I heard what I thought I did.

“What…?” I muttered, looking at Zephyr. “You want to join my crew?” I ask, hoping I just misunderstood.

“What’s all the yelling about?”

We all turn to see Flash walk in wearing pajama bottoms and a tank top, showing off the tribal brands on his arms.

“That!” Zephyr said, pointing at Flash. “I want what he has!”

I looked back at Zephyr and back at Flash who arched a brow at me. I wish Zephyr was just misunderstanding something but I unfortunately knew what he meant.

Well now. I hear Lucifer in my head. I know one must expect the unexpected, but this was quite unforeseen.

“Uh Lock, what’s he talking about?” Flash wonders.

I didn’t answer since I too was still trying to process what Zephyr asked of me. Flash is one thing, but now Zephyr? Did I influence him somehow? No, I only gave him words of encouragement to help him feel better. But why ask something like this?

“Zephyr.” I said. “Please tell me this is just some joke, that you were just trying to make us all laugh or something.”

“I’m not.” Zephyr said sternly. “I don’t wanna sit around any more, I wanna help, I wanna be like you and Flash.”

It was then Flash understood what Zephyr meant which made him go wide eyed. He then scowled at Zephyr and marched over to him and grabbed his shirt and pulled him close.

“Flash!” Twilight said but I raised my hand to stop her.

“Zephyr Breeze, was it?” Flash said and Zephyr nods. “Why in Tartarus would you ask something so foolish and downright stupid?”

“It’s not stupid!” Zephyr snaps, pulling away from Flash’s grip. “You both risk your life and are making a difference, so why can’t I?”

“You see these?” Flash asks while holding up his arm to present his brands. “You know what these signify, don’t you?”

“They’re just tattoos, so what?” Zephyr said.

“They are not tattoos!” Flash barks. “They’re brands! You know, the kind that’s burned into your flesh?! The kind that hurts like a motherbucker and will stay there for the rest of your life?!”

“Brands?” Zephyr said, now shocked. “But why did you get branded?”

“I got these brands after I ate the Devil’s fruit and got my power.” Flash explained. “It was quite possibly the most painful experience I’ve ever had, and they’re a reminder of what I sacrificed in order to bring peace back to this world.”

“What could have possibly sacrificed? You’re a soldier, aren’t ya? You always risk your life for Equestria.” Zephyr said.

“I gave up my soul to the Devil.” Flash answered. “So did Lock, we’re both branded and damned to end up in the Inferno on the day we die. Which is why we fight and sacrifice our souls for the sake of others.”

“But…you’re a soldier with honors and respect and stuff.” Zephyr said. “Why sacrifice your soul?”

“Because I felt it was the only way to prove to be a worthy successor to Shining Armor.” Flash answered. “Ponies doubted me ever since Princess Cadence appointed me as the new Captain and I started to lose my confidence. I wanted to prove them wrong and show everypony that I could be just as great a stallion as Shining Armor was, even if that meant damning my very soul. I ate the Devil’s fruit, despite knowing the price and risk, and I’m now honoring the late Captain’s memory by fighting for my home. So why would you of all ponies want to risk your soul to fight when you don’t even look like you can make a fist?”

“I can so make a fist!” Zephyr countered.

“Yeah? But can you throw a punch?” Flash challenged.

Zephyr growled and actually raised his fist to try to punch Flash but it just looked like he was flailing his arm. Flash barely tilted his head to dodge the punch and stuck his hoof out to trip Zephyr, causing him to fall to the ground

“If you can’t even throw a punch properly, what makes you so sure you’d last in an actual fight? Let alone risk your soul?” Flash mocks.

“You don’t know how I feel.” Zephyr said as he sat on the floor. “None of you know how I feel!”

“Then tell us.” I finally spoke up. “What are you feeling?”

“I feel useless!” Zephyr cried. “I feel like my whole life was one big waste and I never amounted to anything! I wasted my days flying around doing whatever I thought would be easy to make a living but I always ended up either quitting or making excuses to quit! I always mooched off my own parents and disappointed my sis and I always laughed it off and made excuses for my shenanigans! My folks always had my back, no matter how much I took advantage of them, and I stupidly kept flying back home a failure but kept joking about it! Now the world’s gone to shit, I’ve been foalnapped, raped, abused, and I still feel like a failure! Well I don’t want to be a failure anymore! I don’t want to keep disappointing my family! I wanna help! No, I wanna fight!”

Fluttershy and her family were quite shocked to say the least at Zephyr’s confession, even I was a little surprised he had been keeping all this to himself for so long. I guess the invasion and his capture and torture were the final nails that struck a newfound resolve. However despite his conviction, I still was unconvinced he could handle such a thing as giving up his own soul just to fight alongside Flash and I.

“Zephyr sweetie.” Gentle Breeze said. “We had no idea you felt this way.”

“You’re not a disappointment to us, son.” Posey Shy added. “We love you, and we always will.”

“And that’s exactly why you shouldn’t risk your life, your soul for that matter, just to prove you’re not useless.” Fluttershy said on the verge of tears. “I’m sorry if I was too harsh on you, but I only wanted to motivate you.”

“And yet I never listened.” Zephyr sighed. “Well I don’t wanna be that kind of stallion any more. I wanna be a new stallion who ponies can look to for inspiration and hope, like how they look at Flash and Lock. I wanna be able to be proud of myself for once for doing something great and making you, Ma, and Pop proud of me for once.”

“It’s one thing to prove yourself.” Flash said. “But it’s another to risk your very soul. Just because we have power doesn’t mean we’re not in danger. We’re not looking for any recognition or words of praise wherever we go, we’re just doing what we must on the front lines. And you still want to fight with us despite the constant danger?”

“Yeah I do.” Zephyr said.

“What about risking your life?” Flash adds.

“Doesn’t everypony do that on that ship you fly around on?” Zephyr asks.

“Yes, but what about your soul?” Flash counters.

“Well…” Zephyr pauses as he glanced at Flash’s brands again and I caught him wincing and rubbing his arms.

“Power isn’t for everyone Zephyr.” I said. “You don’t need to sacrifice your soul for something like this.”

“I know, but maybe I’ll feel better about myself if I actually do something for myself.” Zephyr said as he stood back up. “Besides you can train me to fight, can’t you? And if I’m like you guys I can be just as helpful in liberating Equestria.”

“Flawless logic.” I said. “Except if that were the case then you’d see my entire crew lining up to ask for powers from me. But they don’t because they believe in their own strength and would rather not risk ending up in Hell. Which is why you should really reconsider your decision.”

“Well too bad, cause I won’t.” Zephyr snapped. “Sacrificing my soul, risking my life, getting those painful looking brands burned on my arms? You both tell me all of this to try and scare me out of it, and I’ll admit I’m terrified out of my mind.” He said as he began to tremble. “But that won’t make me change my mind, I’ll show you all just how wrong you are about me.”

I looked back at Flash who just shrugged since he couldn’t think of anything to say and Twilight was silent the whole time. Fluttershy steps up to Zephyr and holds her hands with his and frowns.

“Zephyr, are you sure there’s nothing I or Mom or Dad can say to change your mind?” Fluttershy pleads.

“I’m sorry sis, but there isn’t.” Flash said then turned to me. “So what do you say Lock, will you let me fight alongside you?” Instead of answering, I just turned away and walked towards the door.

“I need to think about this.” I sighed and Twilight was about to follow me but I glanced over my shoulder, stopping her approach. “Alone.” I added and left the room.

I returned to my ship and entered the Captain’s quarters after sending my crew off for their daily 5k run. It was a large office looking room with a few doors here and there. In the middle of the room was a large mahogany wood desk with gold engravings etched on the sides and a red cushioned chair. On the desk were a variety of documents, a sextant, binoculars, and a few pens. On each side were four drawers used to store different items and to file more documents but in the bottom drawer on the right was a hidden compartment to hide anything valuable. The room had a fancy look to it with portraits of sceneries hanging on the walls and windows in the back to see the outside. There were a pair of metal doors that led to the balcony of the outside to which I sometimes liked to stand out there and clear my thoughts. To the right of the room was a bed where I would rest whenever I wanted to spend the night on The Prometheus. Next to the bed, on the wall, was a door to a closet that had some of my clothes in it. At the foot of the bed was a large chest I had not been able to open yet since it held whatever Lucifer mentioned he had left for me back in Everfree. To the left of the room was just a sitting area with a couple of chairs, a couch, and a wooden coffee table in the middle all standing on a fancy rug. Off to the side was another door that led to the bathroom which had a shower and toilet in case I needed to clean up.

I glanced over to the chest and walked over to it and knelt down in front of it. I can only imagine what Lucifer left for me, a new weapon, a chest filled with Devil fruits, maybe it’s a prison of some demon Lucifer dragged from Hell to assist me. I sighed as I reached up and unlatched the chest and opened the lid. To my surprise it was nothing I was expecting, but armor that consisted of a hooded slightly tattered coat that reached to my ankles, leather straps that seem to serve as bindings for my arms and legs, belts that had four holsters, two that went across my chest and two that went on both sides of my hips, a single steel bracer that would attach on my right arm, steel knee guards, and a pair of steel toed boots to finish the armor off. On top of the whole outfit was what looked like some kind of faceless knights mask with no eyeholes or visor which made me arch a brow. I picked up the mask and curiously strapped the mask on which fit on my face like a glove. The mask seemed to work like some kind of two way mirror since I could still see all around me, like I wasn’t wearing the mask at all despite still feeling it on my face. I took the mask off and placed it to the side and grabbed the coat and lifted it up in front of me.

“Not bad.” I said aloud. “A little rough around the edges, but not bad at all.”

I then laid the coat and the rest of the armor on the bed I saw in the corner of my eye another box. It was a long box that looked like it held a sword of some kind. Which seemed like an odd addition to my arsenal since I already had Surtr and Ymir. I picked up the box and opened it to find a short staff with long sharp looking blades on each side. The handle looked to be wrapped in some kind of red bindings and felt like it weighed just as much as my swords. I examined the weapon curiously until I noticed a small leaver in the grip. As soon as I pressed on the lever, the staff immediately extended out as long as my body which startled me a bit. I then examined the weapon more thoroughly and gave it a few test swings and twirls in my hands. The blades on each end of the staff sounded like they were cutting the air itself and it felt light to the touch.

“Hmm, a curious weapon of choice, but still a nice looking weapon.” I said. “Feels like it can carve up a large number of Caribou.” I added.

I glanced back at the box it came from and saw it had some kind of leather strap which looked like it was supposed to fit on my back. I set the staff aside, along with my other weapons, and began to put on my new armor. The gear felt smooth on my skin and the leather straps and belts felt durable and well made. Once I fastened the last belt around my waist and attached the steel bracer over my right forearm, I reattached my swords and placed my six-shooter in its new holster. I then got an idea for the three other empty holsters across my chest to the other side of my hip and walked over to my desk. I opened one of the drawers and pulled out three new six-shooters I swiped from Appleloosa and placed each of them in the three holsters. I walked back to the bed and put on my new staff’s strap over my back and put on my mask. I picked up my staff and walked to the door of my closet and opened it to see myself in the mirror on the other side of the door.

To add to the affect of my new look, I unfurled my wings and spread them out wide as I backed up to get a full view. I couldn’t help but smirk behind my mask since I honestly looked pretty badass. I can only imagine what the others will think once they see me, especially my enemies.

“Heh, nice.” I said.

Suddenly, the room became dark and the lights in the room dimmed which made me furl my wings and ready my staff in my hands. I looked around and felt a presence but it felt like it was all around me. I paced around my room, trying to find the source of the presence but couldn’t pinpoint it which agitated me a little towards the unknown intruder.

“Show yourself.” I call out. “Not many can sneak in here without me knowing, so come out right now.”

“Who said I snuck in here just now?” A voice answered that sounded all around me. “I’ve actually been waiting for you to arrive all morning.”

“Who’s there?!” I demand.

“So impatient.” The voice sighed. “Honestly, I wonder why Satanael chose you if you’re this quick to anger.”

“I won’t ask again.” I hiss as embers flicker off my body.

“Very well, if you insist.” The voice said.

Wisps of shadow soon appeared all around me and then in front of me in mid air. I kept my glare behind my mask and my staff at the ready as the wisps twirled around each other and began to form into a body. Soon the wisps retreated and in their place was another human looking creature with short brown hair, wearing a brown coat, blue-grey pants and black boots. But what really caught my eye were his own eyes, they had no pupils and seemed to be completely blackened like there was only the endless void behind them.

“Who the hell are you?” I demand, gripping my staff.

“A bit rude don’t you think, Dimitri?” The stranger said, crossing his arms.

“You come onto my ship, sneak into my quarters, and you call me rude?” I accuse. “Not to mention you somehow know my name yet I don’t know yours, so excuse me if I come off as rude.”

“Hmm, well I suppose you have a point.” The stranger agrees. “If you wish to call me something, I am The Outsider.”

“Outsider?” I repeat.

“Indeed, now would you be so kind as to lower your weapon? Satanael allowed me to speak with you and I am a busy fellow.” Outsider said.

“How do I know you’re not a threat?” I wonder.

“You’re still standing, aren’t you?” Outsider pointed out. I was a little annoyed by his response but I strangely didn’t feel threatened by him, despite his shadowy entrance.

“Hmph, fine.” I scoffed as I relaxed my stance and lowered my staff. “Now tell me why you’re here.” I said as I shortened my staff and sheathed it on my back and took off my hood and mask.

“So demanding, if you must know, I am here because I have recently taken an interest in you.” Outsider said.

“Sorry buddy, but I don’t swing that way.” I said.

“Amusing.” Outsider huffed sarcastically. “No Dimitri, the reason why I have taken an interest in you is because your future has recently been getting more and more clouded from me. It is something I have only experienced with a couple of other individuals whose future have also eluded me.”

“So what, you can see into someone’s future without them knowing? Isn’t that kind of, I don’t know, a violation of their privacy?” I said, crossing my arms.

“Since when is one’s future supposed to be private?” Outsider asks. “I was able to see your future just fine, that is until you struck up a deal with Satanael and it started to fade from my sight. At first I thought it was unlikely that there would be yet another individual who’s future I could not fully see, yet here you are standing before me and I still cannot entirely foresee what is to become of you.”

“Why should you even care about what happens to me?” I snap. “My future is my own and whatever happens to me or comes my way, I’ll deal with it.”

“Hmm, you remind me of someone who has the same mindset as you.” Outsider said. “Perhaps great things are in store for you, or perhaps not. You may not agree with me observing you but honestly, I don’t really care. All I wished to do this day is to meet The Devil’s new Hand in person. And I must say, I am somewhat impressed.”

“Glad I didn’t disappoint, now kindly fuck off.” I said.

“Very well.” Outsider said. “But know this, Dimitri, I’m always watching.” He said and disappeared.

“Dick…” I grumbled.

“I agree.” I heard Lucifer said as he appeared beside me. “That Outsider is a meddlesome pest.”

“Who or what even is he?” I ask.

“Believe it or not, he was once a human being who lived in an unnamed city over 4,000 years ago on Earth. Due to being unwillingly subjected to a ritual by an occult group known as the Envisioned, he was sacrificed to become the soul divine resident of an alternate dimension called The Void. The Envisioned vowed to keep him in the Void for eternity as to fill the eternal emptiness of the Void with a god who would contact selected few and grant them purpose.” Lucifer explains.

“Huh, didn’t seem like he had that much of a history.” I said. “But why contact me? I already know my purpose, and that’s to free Equestria and the rest of the world.”

“Perhaps, or perhaps that is not your only purpose. Which is why Outsider chose to contact you.” Lucifer guesses.

“How does that make sense?” I deadpan. “You’re the one who brought me here to help this world and settle a score by collecting Dainn’s soul. What else could I possibly be here for?”

“The Outsider always had a knack for being annoyingly vague, even in front of me.” Lucifer sighed. “If you wish for my personal opinion, I say you just ignore him and pretend you never met him. You already have enough on your plate as it is and The Outsider is just a meaningless distraction from your current mission.”

“Whatever, just as long as he doesn’t show up again that’s enough for me.” I said. “I still need to stop by Canterlot anyway.”

“Will you take young Zephyr as your new apprentice?” Lucifer wonders.

“…I don’t know.” I said as I turned to exit my quarters. “He’s got his mind clouded by self judgement but his heart seems to be in the right place. He just doesn’t seem like the type of kid to handle the face of war.” Lucifer was silent as I approached the door and waited for his response but still said nothing. “Isn’t this the part where you tell me to go through with it?”

“On the contrary, I believe you should make this decision on your own.” Lucifer said.

“Do you now?” I said looking over my shoulder. “Not gonna try to convince me to give him a fruit or maybe find someone else to eat one just to spite him?”

“This is your quest, Dimitri, what you choose to do should be your decision alone. True I would bestow some insight but I believe you to make the proper decision.” Lucifer said. “Just because you are my Hand, doesn’t mean I must constantly include myself in your personal business.”

“If you say so.” I shrug. “I’ll be back in a few hours.” I said and left my quarters.

I made it to the deck of the ship and jumped in the air and took flight towards the royal capital as I pulled over my hood and put my mask back on. As I flew I thought about what Zephyr told me and why he wanted to be a DF user, what Outsider told me about my clouded future, and the fact that Lucifer was actually letting me make a decision on my own for a change.

“Ugh, I need a stiff drink as soon as I get back.” I grumble as I continue to fly.

About an hour later I finally made it to Canterlot and touchdown just put the barrier still surrounding the city. The tribal markings along the ground are still etched in the earth and I noticed some ash blowing along the dirt. This can only mean that someone probably forgot about my barrier and was met with a very burning end.

I ignore the ash covered ground and make my way to the main gate of Canterlot. As I pass by the gate and make my way to the castle, the residents all stare at me, some in slight fear or shock. I again ignore their stares since most of them are just a bunch of entitled nobles who probably got nothing better to do than judge anyone or anything out of the ordinary around here. However there were a select few of nobles who actually gave me curt nods and small waves to which I returned, guess not everyone’s an entitled prick. I arrive at the entrance of the castle and I see a familiar arrogant sergeant standing beside a fellow guard. Onyx Shine scowls at me and readies his weapon along with the other guard.

“State your business, creature.” Onyx orders.

“Tch, you know you’d think after all I’ve done I’d be recognized due to all the wanted posters flying around.” I scoff as I cross my arms.

“Wait, that voice…Lockdrom?” Onyx asks.

“No, it’s Napoleon Dynamite.” I mocked. “Of course it’s me.”

“That’s an…interesting set of armor you have on.” Onyx comments.

“Eh, what can I say, it gives me a mysterious look, don’t you think?” I ask.

“I suppose, what are you doing here anyway?” He wonders.

“I’m here to see the Princesses, they wanted to speak with me about something so here I am.” I said.

“Why would they want to meet you? They probably have more important matters to attend to.” Onyx said.

“Oh for fucks Onyx.” I snap. “I have done more for this country than you have by just standing around guarding the gate of a castle. You think just because you’re a faithful guard of Canterlot you can walk all over everyone else as you please?”

“You will show me respect, human.” Onyx growls. “I can have you arrested for harassing a guard.”

“Oh I fuckn’ dare you to try and bring me in, cause let me tell you something buddy.” I said as I reached for my six-shooter on my hip. “You won’t be so lucky.”

“What is going on here?”

I stop my reach for my gun and look past Onyx to see Celestia walk up behind Onyx. Onyx turns around and gasps as he immediately salutes along with the other guard.

“Princess Celestia! Good day!” Onyx said.

“You as well sergeant, who is this?” Celestia said.

“Really? You don’t recognize the wings?” I chuckle.

“Wait a moment, Sir Dimitri?” Celesta said.

“That’s me.” I said as I pulled off my hood and took off my mask. “Like my new armor?”

“Oh, why yes of course.” Celestia said. “It gives you a bit of a mysterious look.”

“Heh, that’s exactly what I was going for.” I said, earning a small giggle from her.

“Show some respect, human!” Onyx barked. “You must address Princess Celestia properly!”

“That will do, Sergeant Onyx Shine.” Celestia said sternly. “Sir Dimitri is my guest.”

“Your guest?” Onyx repeated.

“Told you.” I smirked.

“Now if you will excuse us, we have important matters to discuss.” Celestia said as she turned to walk back inside.

I followed her and gave Onyx a shit eating grin. “Next time maybe think before you speak.” I said.

I tucked my mask in my coat and walked up beside Celestia who smiled at me. “I am pleased you were able to come today.” She said.

“Well I figured I shouldn’t turn you down since you’re trying to earn back my trust. Besides it’s already been a bit of a stressful morning.” I said.

“I’m sorry to hear that.” Celestia said. “Would you like to share what troubles you?”

“Maybe, where’s Luna?” I ask.

“She is awaiting us in the throne room.” Celestia said. “I believe she has something to show you.”

“What is it?” I wonder.

“Oh you’ll see.” Celestia giggles.

We continue our walk and the staff all stare at me, the guards in awe of my attire and some maids I catch blushing or staring at me with that dreamy look. I smirk and shake my head since it’s a little amusing at how much attention I’m getting now compared to last time. We then arrive at the double doors leading to the throne room and Celestia opens it with her magic. Once inside I see a small table with a few chairs around it and Luna sitting in one of them. She doesn’t seem to notice us walk in since she’s fiddling with her hair which seems to be styled differently. She’s tied in in a long braid that reaches down to her lower back and is held together by a hair band that has a little crescent moon pin on it. I arched a brow at her new look and glance at Celestia who’s just giggling with a hand over her mouth. I shrug and clear my throat in my fist to get her attention which ended up startling her.

“Eep!” Luna squeaked as her wings shot out. She turned to face us and went wide eyed when she saw me and stood up from her chair. “S-Sir Dimitri! Good day to you!” She stuttered.

“Uh yeah, good morning to you too.” I said. “What’s with the table and chairs?”

“We were hoping you would join us for some morning tea.” Celestia said.

“Tea? That’s it?” I ask.

“Are you unhappy with our invitation?” Luna asks, sounding worried. “Oh sister, I knew he wouldn’t like this! I tried to tell you that Sir Dimitri is a busy stallion and has no time for such pointlessness!”

“Whoa whoa, slow down.” I said, raising my hands. “I never said I wouldn’t like this, it’s just a bit unexpected is all.”

“I must apologize, Sir Dimitri.” Celestia said. “It is just that Luna and I still feel guilty for your mistrust in us and we wanted to think of a way to make it up to you besides the new laws we passed.”

“We wish to simply spend time with you and get to know you so that you may trust us again.” Luna added.

“Well…” I said scratching the back of my head. “Look, it’s not that I don’t appreciate the gesture, I actually decided to give you two another chance before I came here.”

“Really?” Luna said, sounding happy.

“Why not? You both kept your promise by realizing the fault of your endeavors from Heat season and you learned from it. I’d say that’s good enough for me to trust you again.” I said.

Luna smiles widely and actually skips towards me and wraps her arms around my torso and hugs me close. “Oh thank you so very much, Sir Dimitri! We promise to never break your trust in us again!” Luna squeals as she nuzzles into my chest.

I was a little surprised at the sudden gesture as the alicorn of the moon was actually hugging and nuzzling me and I just stood there unable to react properly. I glance over at Celestia and she’s just smiling at her sister which made me crack a small grin myself.

“Not that I don’t welcome a hug every so often, but do you mind releasing me now?” I ask. Luna looked up at me and noticed she was still hugging me and her muzzle changes color from a midnight blue to a deep read as she quickly releases me and fidgets away all flustered.

“I-I am so sorry, Sir Dimitri! I did not mean to embrace you like that! I know you are with Twilight Sparkle and I would never come between the two of you!” Luna stammers.

“Luna, chill out.” I chuckled. “It was just a hug, no harm no foul.” Luna takes a breath to calm herself but still looks embarrassed by her actions. I sigh as I step towards her and place a hand on her shoulder. “That’s quite a new look, how you styled your mane, you do that yourself?”

“Um, yes…I thought I’d try something different besides letting it flow on it’s own.” Luna said.

“Well it suits you.” I said with a smile. “In fact, it’s pretty cute, if I’m honest.”

Luna goes wide eyed and blushes again at my compliment and begins to twiddle her thumbs. “You think…I’m cute?”

“Of course, now why don’t we get this little tea party started, shall we?” I said as I looked back at Celestia.

“By all means, Sir Dimitri, take a seat.” Celestia said as she walked over to the table. Luna and I join her and I sit at the table as does Luna. Though as I sit down, Luna scoots her chair a little closer to mine and smiles warmly at me with a still faint blush. “So tell us, Sir Dimitri, where exactly did you acquire such armor as yours?” She asks as she pours herself some tea.

“It is rather dashing on you, Sir Dimitri.” Luna said with a sigh.

“Thanks, it’s actually a gift from Lucifer.” I said, making Celestia pause her pouring.

“The Devil gave this armor to you?” Celestia asks.

“Yep, he may be an unholy being but at least he’s got good taste. Can’t exactly go around liberating Equestria in my street clothes.” I joke as Celestia levitated the teapot to me and I poured myself a cup.

“Hmm, I suppose you’re right.” Celestia said. “How have you and my student been fairing lately? You seemed to have made quite an impression with her parents the last time you were here.”

“We’re doing quite well, thank you. I came here after having to get away from some drama back in Ponyville.” I said before I took a sip of my tea.

Mmm, lavender with a hint of honey. I think.

“Drama? What happened?” Luna wondered.

“It’s…sort of complicated.” I admit. “Do you recall how I told you Flash Sentry approached me to gain power similar to mine?”

“Indeed, you explained he wished to properly succeed the late Sir Shining Armor.” Celestia said after she took a sip of her own tea.

“Well now there’s another who wants me to give them power.” I said.

“Truly, Sir Dimitri?” Luna asks, surprised. “Who?”

“Fluttershy’s younger brother, Zephyr Breeze.” I answer.

“Zephyr Breeze, but he is but a colt with no combat experience.” Celestia said. “Why on Eques would he want to do something so dangerous?”

“I wondered that as well, apparently he said he always felt useless towards his family and himself. He said that before the Fall he was a freeloader who leaned on his parents despite his sister constantly trying to steer him on the proper path. Now ever since he came back from being saved in Cloudsdale, he wanted to find a way to be a better stallion than he is now.”

“And he believes partaking of the Devil’s fruit is the answer?” Luna asks and I nod.

“You didn’t give him one already, did you?” Celestia asks.

“To be completely honest, I’m on the fence for this one.” I said. “Zephyr’s heart is in the right place and his goals are just, but I get the feeling that maybe he’s not thinking this through. I tried to explain to him that if he ate a fruit of the Devil he’d be damning his soul and would never be the same again. Yet, despite mine and even Flash’s words of warning, he still insisted on wanting power and joining us in the fight. It is as you said Celestia, he’s young and has no combat experience. If one wrong move is made he’d lose his life before having a chance to throw a proper punch. But on the other hand he does have some potential.”

“What do you mean?” Luna wonders.

“Back at the Castle of Friendship, Zephyr and Flash got into an argument and Zephyr tried to punch Flash. Though his form was sloppy as hell, he did have some force behind his strike. I believe he’s somewhat of a combat prodigy and he doesn’t even know it. With the proper training and guidance, I think he’d make a valuable asset to the resistance.” I said.

“Does that mean you plan to bestow him a fruit after all?” Celestia questions.

“Flash and I, along with my crew, have been doing pretty well so far regarding the process of liberating Equestria. More ponies join my crew almost every day and I make sure to give them proper training every time so they can protect themselves when in the face of danger. I kinda expected someone else to approach me to ask to give them power but I didn’t expect it to be Zephyr. If he still wants to eat a Devil fruit by the time I get back, then maybe I will give him one so he can join us.” I said.

“Are you sure that’s wise, Sir Dimitri?” Luna asks. “Would you truly be willing to risk his life?”

“I won’t let him run blindly into danger without being properly prepared, especially during these times of war. Back in my world there have been people who joined up to enlist for reasons either foolish or honorable, sometimes both, yet they still fight on for their home, me especially during my own service in the military. So if Zephyr is still willing to risk his life for the sake of his home, to prove himself and to his family, then I’d be sure to make him into a proper soldier.” I said. Celestia and Luna look at each other after my explanation and back at me.

“He’s still a colt.” Celestia said.

“A colt who wants to be a stallion.” I counter.

“He’d be cursing his soul.” Luna adds.

“He said it’s worth it.” I said.

“And you would train him?” Celestia asks.

“Like a proper mentor would his apprentice.” I said. Both are silent for a moment before Celestia sighs and pinches the bridge of her muzzle.

“You sound as if you have already made your decision.” Celestia said.

“Perhaps I have.” I shrug.

“I do not like the idea of my little ponies bearing the curse of the Devil, but I suppose I cannot stop you from going through with this.” Celestia said.

“If it’s any consolation, I don’t plan on just offering power to all who I see. Flash and Zephyr are just a couple of special cases.” I said.

“Very well Sir Dimitri, we shall leave the matter of Zephyr Breeze to you.” Celestia said. “I just hope that you are aware of your actions and the outcomes that will come of them.”

“You and me both, Celestia, and thank you. I promise to prepare him properly.” I said. “So let us for the time being enjoy our tea.”

“Of course.” Celestia said.

I spent the rest of the day enjoying tea with Celestia and Luna and just having one nice conversation after another until it was time for Celestia to lower the sun and Luna to raise the moon. I’m now flying back to Ponyville as the sun set and the moon rose with a decision in mind that might be either quite foolish or very beneficial. I still could not believe that out of all the ponies to approach me for a Devil fruit, Zephyr was the one out of all of them. I thought of just turning him down but that probably would just cause a rift that I didn’t want on my conscience. An hour later, Ponyville eventually comes into view and I fly over to the castle and land in front of the entrance. I glance over to The Prometheus and hear Alpha Squad still training with the rest of the crew which made me smirk as I walked up to the castle doors. I opened them and walked inside to find Zephyr so I could see if he still wanted to go through with this. I eventually made it to the dining room where I found the main six, Flash, Posey Shy, Gentle Breeze, and Zephyr Breeze all at the table about to have dinner. Zephyr notices me and stands up with Twilight, Fluttershy, and Flash lingering behind Zephyr as he walks up to me. I didn’t see Cadence which meant she was probably already asleep with Flurry Heart, which was for the best since I don’t think she should be here anyway for what’s about to happen.

“Did you think about it yet?” Flash asks.

“I have.” I said.

“Have you made a decision?” Twilight wonders.

“I did.” I said.

“So what do you say?” Zephyr asks. Instead of answering again I just reach into my coat pocket and pull out a fruit with tribal markings all around. It looks like a melon of some kind and is a tannish gold color.

“Zephyr, I’m warning you once again.” I said as I handed Zephyr the fruit. “Are you positive you want this? There’s no going back and you’ll never be the same again.” Zephyr looks down at the fruit in his hands, completely dumbfounded, and looks back up at me with the same shocked expression. “You have to be willing to kill and risk it all for our victory, can you do that?”

“…Yes…I can.” Zephyr said and opened his mouth out wide. Not bothering to wait for any more or protests, Zephyr bit down on the fruit with two massive bites. Zephyr quickly chewed the fruit and kept his eyes closed tight as he chewed. Eventually he swallowed the fruit in his mouth and tensed his body up. A few seconds later, he opens an eye and looks down at his hands. “Well that was…GUH!”

Zephyr buckled over and fell to his knees as he tore off his shirt. He shakily looked at his arms and saw a little steam coming from them as the brands started to burn on his flesh. Zephyr immediately screams in pain as the tribal markings slowly trailed up from his wrists to his shoulders. Fluttershy and his parents rushed to his side and tried to comfort him in his time of pain as the others could only watch the horrific scene unfold. As the brands crawled up his arms, I noticed his mane and tail began to change color as well. It started to become shorter and it changed from its dirty blond color to a pure white, like fresh snow. His eyes also changed as they seemed to glaze over in a white color leaving only his pupils which were shrunk down to pinpricks. After an unbearable minute, the brands finally stopped burning into his flesh and Zephyr fell limp on the floor. He looked like a different pony since his physical appearance had changed so much and one would not be able recognize him at first glance. He also seemed to have grown a few inches like Flash, along with his wingspan and muscles. Zephyr Breeze was now my new apprentice, and it was anyone’s guess what his powers were.

“It is done.” I said, just before the doors flew open and Soarin came running in with a panicked expression. “Soarin? What’s wrong?”

“Captain! We just got word over the comms chatter from our scouts, Salt Lick City was attacked!“ Soarin cried, making everyone gasp in shock.

“What?! Was it the Saint?!” I asked.

“That’s the thing, I don’t think it was! The reports are unlike anything I’ve heard of!” Soarin said.

“Shit, of all times, and Salt Lick of all cities.” I grumble. “Go prep The Prometheus for immediate departure!” I order and Soarin salutes and flies back out of the castle. I turn back to the others as Flash walks up beside me. “Make sure Zephyr is properly looked after and is mentally prepared upon my return. His training will begin as soon as I am done seeing what the hell happened to Salt Lick City.” I said as we both turned to walk out the door.

“Be careful Lock!” Twilight calls out to me as I pull over my hood and put my mask on.

This day just keeps getting better and better. I think sarcastically in my head.

It took a few hours to arrive at Salt Lick City and I sent Flash and Alpha Squad to do recon before we advanced on the city. It was now in the dead of night and I was sitting in the Captain’s quarters of my ship looking at the map of Equestria and waiting for Flash and Alpha Team to return from their recon on Salt Lick City. The scouts reports of a strange creature over the comms had me both curious and worried that there was a new threat looming in the shadows. As if the Saint, whoever he is, running around wasn’t enough, now I gotta deal with this? It’s just one mess after another in this war.

“Captain?” I hear Shadow Star from the door.

“What is it?” I reply.

“We’re back with Flash from our recon.” Shadow Star said.

“I see.” I said.

“With all the mares and brainwashed from Salt Lick City.” She adds making me perc my head up.

I turn and walk towards the door and open it to see my Alpha Squad member standing on the other side. I walked past her and headed to the main fourier. Once we arrive, I see Flash and the rest of Alpha Squad standing with dozens of mares and unconscious stallions all huddling together on the floor and wearing blankets. Each one of them looked like they’d seen a ghost and would flinch at the slightest movement.

“Flash.” I said, approaching my apprentice. “What’s happened to them? What about Salt Lick?”

“It’s…complicated.” Flash said.

“When we got there the whole place looked like something or someone tore eveypony limb from limb! There were bodies everywhere, all except for these ponies.” Wild Ace said.

I arched a brow behind my mask and slowly walked up to the closest mare. She flinched as she looked up at me as I leaned down on my knee to look at her at eye level.

“You alright?” I ask. She nods slightly. “You’re not hurt anywhere are you?” She shakes her head. “Got a name?”

“Honey Drizzle, sir.” The mare said in a nervous tone. She had cream fur and amber gold mane.

“It’s nice to meet you, Honey Drizzle.” I said as I took off my hood and mask. She blushes when she sees my face as I smile. “My name is Dimitri. Would you like a glass of water?” I offer.

She stared at me for a few moments with a blush still on her cheeks as she weakly nods. “Please.”

I glance over to Flash and tip my head and he nods and runs off. He quickly returns and hands me a glass of water and I hand it to Honey. She drinks a few gulps before taking a break as I then sit criss crossed in front of her.

“Feel better?” I ask.

She nodded weakly as she as well as the rest of the mares started to calm down, Flash was even kind enough to fetch more waters for the other mares of the group.

“Must’ve been rough, being abused by those villains.” I said as I placed a hand on her shoulder. “You’re safe now, so you don’t have to suffer anymore.”

“W-well we were actually saved before they could abuse us any further.” She admitted, sounding slightly relieved and at the same time shaken up.

“By them?” I ask, pointing to Flash and Alpha Squad.

She nervously shook her head. “No, by…it.” The other mares all looked equally nervous as soon as she said that which pondered my curiosity even more.

“Honey, I know you’re a bit shaken up right now, but for the sake of this investigation I need you to be as descriptive as possible, ok?” I ask. She looks at me but nods anyway. “Start from the beginning.”

“B-But that’s the thing, none of us knows what saved us, or if it was trying to help us.” Honey said and other mares were quick to nod in agreement. “See, it started when me and a group of the mares here were being taken to Salt Lick City. We had just been rounded up from Vanhoover and the Caribou had us in a wagon inside cages. The Caribou were taking a shortcut through a field of long grass, that’s when it happened…”

“You were attacked?” I guessed.

Honey shook her head again. “Not us but the Caribou.” Some of the mares started to quiver as they huddled up together. “There were maybe twenty Caribou at first. We were all sitting in our cages when we heard one of the Caribou scream. The group stopped and looked around. One of the Caribou in the back had suddenly disappeared along with his screams.” Honey started to hug herself as she rocked back and forth a bit. “It was quiet for a few minutes, then we heard something that sounded like a snarl and heard two more Caribou screaming and disappearing.”

I started to think about the different predators of this world that could do something like this but none of them seemed to fit the description.

“And this went on until there were none left?” I ask.

Honey nodded her head. “All we heard were the screams of the Caribou, along with this scream like roar. I barely saw anything besides a long tail quickly dipping back into the grass. I watched as one Caribou tried to crawl to the wagon only for whatever was attacking to drag him back and his screams died.” Most of the mares were covering their ears as Honey went on. “Then I saw something that made a chill run down my spine. A pair of glowing eyes staring right at me from the grass. I was so petrified that I couldn’t look away as it moved close. That’s when I got a real shock.”

Honey looked like she was about to pass out from fear. So acting on instinct I reached up and wrapped her in a one armed hug in an attempt to calm her down.

“Take your time, Honey, just breathe.” I said soothingly.

She took some deep breaths before finally continuing her story. “As I watched the eyes move close I saw something reaching out of the grass. It was three black claws dripping with blood, and hanging from those claws were the keys to our cages.” She took a few more deep breaths before continuing. “It just hid there waiting as the keys dangled from its claws. I wasn’t sure why I did, but I was desperate and reached out and grabbed the keys as fast as I could. When I pulled my hand back with the keys, I looked back up and it was gone.”

I again pondered her words about the monster that attacked the group. I then remembered what Flash told me as another question popped in my head.

“What happened to the city?” I ask.

“W-When we were trying to find another place to hide, we met up with the other mares.” She looked back to the group and two earth ponies who seemed more shaken then the rest. “All we got from them and the others from the city was something about some huge monster going around killing the Caribou and traitor stallions.”

I looked to the two earth mares who were hugging each other and seemed to be trembling more than the other ponies. I scooted towards them as they looked at me with nothing but fear in their eyes. It was then I recognized the two mares based on their fur and manes.

“You’re Carrot Top and Tree Hugger, aren’t you?” I ask, surprising them.

Carrot Top had yellow fur and an orange curly mane as she looked at me with mild curiosity. “H-how do you know our names?”

“I have my ways.” I said vaguely. “Can you two tell me what happened in Salt Lick? If it’s too much to share, I understand.”

That seemed to cause her and Tree Hugger, a mare with lime green fur and Light amaranth dreadlocks, to hug one another closer. “It was Tartarus there, we heard roars that sounded like dragons and the screams of Caribou and stallions being ripped apart.” Carrot Top answered while tears started to trail down her muzzle. “Not to mention the loud noises from their weapons and some explosions every so often.”

I placed a hand on her shoulder to calm her down. “Breathe, nice and slow.” I instructed her.

Tree Hugger did her best to also help Carrot calm down by patting her back. “It was crazy man, we were all locked up in our cages in one of the warehouses when the ground started to shake. Then we heard this loud roar that shook the building, along with the sounds of the Caribou screaming about some kind of monster.”

“Did you manage to see what kind of monster attacked the city?” I ask.

Both mares shook their heads. “It attacked in the middle of the night and we didn’t see anything. Whatever it was, it threw the keys through the window and that's how we managed to escape.” Carrot said.

“Hold up, again with the keys being thrown?” I question but they just nod. “Alright, so I’m guessing after you freed yourselves and regrouped with the other mares my apprentice and rescue team arrived?”

All the mares nodded their heads. “And the weirdest part was that none of the brainwashed stallions were killed. They were either unconscious, or trapped under some rubble.” Carrot Top added.

“Hmm.” I pondered.

Suddenly I heard one of the stallions groan as he started to wake up making all the mares gasp and scoot away. I was quick on my feet and marched over to the stallion as I grabbed his shirt collar and hoisted him up. His eyes still had the sickly green glow as he looked up at me in confusion and shock.

“I have questions, you have answers. Do the math, and everyone wins, understand?” I instruct.

The stallion continued to groan and cough as he tried to speak. “…many…of them…so many monsters.” He coughed again clutching his head. “Such big fangs and claws, never heard them coming…”

“Hey.” I said snapping my fingers in his face. “Focus pal, what attacked you? I need more info.”

“I-I don’t know…so fast didn’t see what hit me.” He coughed and wheezed as he was starting to fade out of consciousness.

“Shit…” I sighed as I ignited my hand in Hellfire and grabbed his head. There was no pain as I cleared his mind and the sickly green glow from his eyes faded away and he finally lost consciousness and fell backwards.

“Flash, Wild Ace.” I called out. “Get these mares whatever they need, I need to see the damage for myself.” I said as I cleared the other stallions’ minds.

I looked at the mares as they stared at me healing the stallions and I smiled as I finished the last stallion.

“I’ll be back as soon as I can, so get some rest and don’t hesitate to ask for anything from my crew.” I tell them all.

They all nodded and followed Flash and Alpha Squad to the med bay to be treated and taken care of. I walk back up to the deck and look out in the distance to see Salt Lick City and I could already see it was worse for wear. I pulled my hood over my head and put my mask back on as I unfurled my wings and took off towards the city. It only took a few minutes to arrive and I was met with a grim sight. Everywhere I looked there were dead bodies and partially destroyed buildings, as well as lots of blood and gore. I saw half a Caribou’s body with only his legs remaining and it looked like he was literally torn in two and few more bodies that looked like that were completely crushed which left a very bloody mess. There were destroyed airships crashed into the ground, some that even crashed into the buildings along with claw-like marks that ran up the walls of the buildings of the city and along the ground. The strangest part is that there were these huge unfamiliar looking footprints that looked like a three clawed foot which made me arch a brow. The whole city reeked of death and destruction and I couldn’t sense a single soul throughout the whole city.

“Just what the hell happened here?” I wonder as I gazed upon the mutilated bodies of Caribou and stallions. “What sort of creature would be capable of such destruction?”

Unable to deduce what could have caused all this, I reluctantly decided to just pin this investigation for another day since I still had to get back to Zephyr. I turned away and unfurled my wings and looked back at the destruction once more before flying away. I would’ve put up a barrier around the city, but something told me that wouldn’t be necessary after the carnage that just happened this night. I jumped into the air and slowly flew back to my ship with nothing but more questions than answers swirling around in my head. What could’ve caused such mayhem? Could a creature exist to slaughter and destroy a city of that magnitude? It couldn’t have been the Saint since there was nothing here that matched how he operates. So I suppose the only conclusion I can think of is that there’s a new player in this world, whether it be sentient or a mindless killing machine I couldn’t be sure. Just from now on I had to keep my guard up in case something like this happens again.

“Whatever it is, I have a feeling this won’t be the only time it will make its presence known.” I said aloud as I continued to fly back to my ship.

Author's Notes:

Zephyr Breeze, the new apprentice of The Devil’s Hand. Things just got more interesting, especially since there’s a possible new threat lurking around.

Let me be the first to say that I AM SO INCREDIBLY SORRY! I was just typing my chapter like I usually do and the next thing I know, MY FREAKING FINGER SLIPPED ON THE PUBLISH BUTTON! Regardless, I finally managed to ACTUALLY FINISH the chapter so I hope you all enjoyed. And again, I am sorry for the clickbait and I promise it won’t happen again.

~WurkyWilk has left the building…