Firstly, I must thank you for choosing my story before the thousands that you could have chosen. Secondly, this story isn't actually "Grimdark" Dark, but it does have some underlying Dark bits. Therefore, you shouldn't mind the "Dark" tag too much.
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I said "Dark" too much.

Another thing. This is a story involving a lot of purposely placed plot holes, meant for filling later. Don't nag me. Most are planned. Some are intentional. On that note, unless someone has already noted a plot hole in the comments, don't bother. It's a waste of perfectly good electrons. But do make comments about your opinions and thoughts. They're fun to read, and I will always personally reply to them. Fun comments and feedback are never a waste of electrons.

Oh. And also, this is two things. Firstly, my third story I have ever written. Secondly, it is designed to be a challenge to myself, to create a memorable story with a cliched plot and characters. Obviously, I'm adding some original ideas and plot devices, but more or less, this is going to be your standard "Prince humbled and enlightened" story. Like the the tale of the Buddha. But with ponies. And war. And demigods. And lots of homosexual undertones.
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Anywhoo... yeah. If you don't like the idea of this, click away. You tease.
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Oh. You're still here. Cool.

Also, unlike many fan-fictions on the web, this one will have short chapters, but lots of them. I am planning on having 50 500-5000 word chapters, increasing in length as time wears on. Cause I'm a lazy fuck. Several more little things I must cover are the possibility of “Lemons” in my story. I may or may not have erotic scenes, but most likely not. If I ever do, I will inform you, the reader, of their presence at the beginning of their respective chapter. More likely, I will post those chapters in another side-story. Likely on my co-author's profile.

Lastly, I will be making dozens, if not hundreds of references to pop culture, history, and things of the like. Try to spot them, if you can… that covers it (I think), so stop reading my ramblings and get on with the story, my fellow Brony/Pegasister!
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Thanks for reading all that! :3

Author's Notes:

Author's Author's Note Note: After much debate and discussion, I have convinced my co-author that lemons are not necessary for this story. Her disappointment is palpable, yet the decision is for the better.

Further Update: A fellow brony on youtube wished to be advertised by me, and so I will. You can find his game walkthroughs and whatnot here. Please lend your support to a fellow member of the herd, and I will always shoutout to bronies and pegasisters if you ask. /) Brohoof to him, and visit him please.

Update. Again: My good friend Lophane has started a story, but he is lacking support. His story is even better than this one, so check it out here. I hope you enjoy this story, and his too!