A Blank Flank's Shadow


                                            >Be Tempest Shadow

                                            >Not even a month after the defeat of the Storm King.

                                            >Equestria is back to normal, if you can call the over abundance of sunshine, rainbows, and friendship normal.

                                            >You've spent your whole life, ever since that cave, avoiding friendship and Equestria like it was the plague.

                                            >Still, you're right back where you started and no more closer to finding the thing you've been missing. Nowadays even you don't really know what you're looking for.

                                            >You've spent so much time away from Equestria, that a certain thought has been springing up in your head: What if the place you've been avoiding, might hold the secret to your problems?

                                            >Preposterous

                                            >Morning dawns as light fills your room from the small peephole of a window. You specifically wanted a room where no one would see you and this is the best Twilight could offer.

                                            >Even with such little light entering in, the sunshine bounces off the crystallized walls, it brightens up the room enough to prevent anypony from sleeping in.

                                            >It's not that you aren't grateful for Twilight's hospitality, there's just a certain uneasy feeling you have sleeping in the same castle with somepony you've captured before.

                                            >After the Storm King's defeat, ponies have had two reactions to seeing you: Smiling with open hooves or with a cautious disdain.

                                            >Honestly speaking, you prefer the latter. Atleast there is no second guessing their intent.

                                            >You adorn your uniform, now missing the storm King's insignia, and head downstairs where Twilight is waiting with breakfast served on her dining table.

                                            >Pancakes with fruit? Usually she prepares oatmeal and some toast with butter. Can't complain, these have been the best breakfasts you've had since you were a filly.

                                            >"Good morning Tempest, I hope you don't mind I prepared something different this morning."

                                            "Morning, and it's quite alright." You sigh, "Can we just cut to the end where you tell me what 'friendship lesson' you have in store for me?" you ask as you take a bite out of your stack of flapjacks.

                                            >Twlight looks at you with a deep concern, "I understand that these lessons may seem beneath you but I want you to know that I'm doing this because I truly care about you Tempest."

                                            >It's difficult to look her in the eye, you almost feel bad for saying that. Almost.

                                            "It's not that I don't see how important friendship can be, it was you and your friends' friendship that defeated the Storm King..."

                                            >"But it was YOU that saved us so that we could ultimately stopped the Storm King," Twilight said with a genuine smile.

                                            "Well that's the difference, you needed your friends for all your major successes. Whereas I never needed friends for my accomplishments."

                                            >"You lead an army, you had Grubber, you even believed the Storm King would fix your horn." Your eyes dart up and focus on Twilight. "One could argue those could all be seen as friends."


                                            "Those were subordinates, they followed my command because they feared me. And the Storm King was simply offering a service for my service. There was nothing friendly about us."

                                            >You take another bite of one of your pancakes, now soaked with syrup. This breakfast would taste much better without the lecturing.

                                            >"So you aren't opposed to friendship?" Twilight asks as her horn glows faintly. She is clearly writing notes underneath the table. At least she's trying not to be rude.

                                            "Friendship isn't the problem. The friendship you offer me is only superficial. It's just..." You pause. "I can never have a friendship where somepony TRULY understands what I went through...what I'm GOING through."

                                            >"Are you willing to tell me what it is that you are going through right now? I may not be able to help but I'm sure I can think of a pony who has gone through something similar."

                                            >You push your plate away from yourself, you've had your fill and you have to address this problem now.

                                            "You will never find a pony that feels what I feel. I am alone in a world where I don't belong."

                                            "The world I knew as a filly was gone; I felt like I belonged as a commander of an army."

                                            >You feel tears welling in your eyes. Twilight says it's normal to feel emotional but you still say it's weakness.

                                            "But being leader of an army still had this superficial feeling to it but it was something I was GOOD at and now that world doesn't exist anymore either. I feel trapped in a world I don't belong to."

                                            >Twilight has clearly stopped writing and is deep in thought as her gaze has turned away from you. Not what you expected, seeing as she is always quick with a rebuttal.

                                            > She turns back to you with a smile, "Tempest, go on one last friendship lesson for me and if you wish to leave Ponyville afterwards, I'll honor your decision."

                                            "Deal. So what exactly do I need to do? Help bake some cake? Build another barn?" you ask with a tiny hint of mockery.

                                            >"You just need to get to know them. Learn a couple things from them and there's a chance you may find some similarities."

                                            >After finishing breakfast and cleaning up, you find yourself on the outskirts of Ponyville: secluded, quiet, and void of any other ponies.

                                            >Just the way you like it.

                                            >After about a half hour trek you come across a lone cottage in a open field with forests in the surrounding area.

                                            >You haven't seen any other homes so this must be the place.

                                            >Hopefully it's not another pony like Fluttershy. Such wasted potential in that one.

                                            >The way she commands disobedient animals, reminds you of a younger version of you. Too bad she has no backbone.

                                            >You walk up to the door and take a deep breath. Just a few hours of the same old boring friendship routines and you'll be back home, you think to yourself.

                                            >You knock on the door.

                                            >No answer.

                                            >You knock a few more times, nearly breaking through the wood planks.

                                            >Still no answer.


                                            >I had asked Twilight what if they aren't home when I visited and she just said, "If anything they'll be sleeping you just gotta wake them up."

                                            >It's nearly one in the afternoon, what pony could be sleeping in this late?

                                            >You look up above you and the surrounding area.

                                            >Open skies.

                                            >One of the few times you grin out of a true sense of joy:the suffering you will inflict on someone else.

                                            >Your horn sparks as you launch a firework into the air above the house which explodes and shakes the house below it.

                                            >Shortly after shuffling can be heard. Whoever it may be, they're wide awaken now.

                                            >The door creaks open as you are taken aback with such surprise as you stare up at the creature.

                                            >Before you stands a tall, bipedal creature with a green complexion, adorning clothes, and squinting its eyes. Probably due to adjusting to the midday sun.

                                            >You both stare at each other for what feels like minutes. He looks like a nearly hairless version of the Storm King, just shorter and less ugly. You now notice the stupid smile that's growing on his face.

                                            >Please don't be another Pinkie.

                                            "I'm Tempest," you say with a hint of caution.

                                            >"Nice to finally meet you Tempest, what brings you to my place?"

                                            "Um, Twilight sent me." Why am I at a lost for words? I've seen plenty of strange creatures in my travels but I've never seen anything like him. "She said I should get to know you?"

                                            >His grin turns into a half smile as he learns on the door frame. "Friendship lesson I presume?"

                                            >You nod, staring at the being before you. Could his looks be deceiving? You'll definitely keep you're guard up. Then again why would Twilight send you to a possible threat for a friendship problem?

                                            >Could Twilight be betraying you? Was it all a ruse to take out one of the biggest threats Equestria has faced?

                                            >"You coming inside or you just going to stand there all day? Never seen a human before?"

                                            >Human?

                                            >"Right. Of course."

                                            >You step inside, readying yourself for a possible struggle.

                                            >Inside the cottage, there's scattered clothes lying on the ground amongst random piles of books. Twilight must be fond of this human.

                                            >"Make your self at home; sorry for the mess. Twilight keeps sending me books even though I've yet to read the first one she sent me."

                                            >The human sits on one of the two couches as you sit on the couch across form him.

                                            "So... What's your name human?"

                                            >"It's Anon."

                                            >There's silence.

                                            >You never really did learn how to have a normal conversation with a stranger, all you know if commandeering your troops and manipulation.

                                            >It appears Anon has to break the ice, "Twilight's lesson are just the absolute worse aren't they?"

                                            >Your ears perk up.


                                            >First time you've ever heard someone else criticize Twilight's lessons. She did say he was a friend of hers so it's just odd hearing one of her FRIENDS say that.

                                            >"Yeah, I remember when the first few lessons she sent me on. Baking with Pinkie, helping AJ with the farm. Too bad I pretty much knew all the lessons ahead of time."

                                            "What do you mean you knew all the lessons?"

                                            >"Umm, let's just say they were very predictable for me. So did Twilight say what lesson you were supposed to learn here?"

                                            "She said to get to know you, there weren't any other instructions so let's just get this done and I'll be on my way."

                                            >Anon shrugs and says, "What do you want to know about?"

                                            "Well for starters, I've traversed the far reaches of Equestria, conquered towns, kingdoms, and for a brief period of time conquered Canterlot. I've never seen your kind before so where are you from?"

                                            >"Your kind?" Anon breaks out in a laugh. "Oh I can tell this is going to be a fun. I'm not from here, I come from another planet."

                                            >You groan. You don't have time for any Pinkie Pie-esqe shenanigans.

                                            "I am not like most ponies Anon, I don't find humor in these little jokes."

                                            >"You also clearly didn't learn about honesty with Applejack. I'm serious, I'm from another world. Maybe even time? I really can't be sure."

                                            >You start to feel a little heated but remember what Twilight taught you.

                                            >You take a deep breath and slowly release.

                                            "So you're an alien?"

                                            >"Just as much as you are an alien to me."

                                            >You still don't believe him but the thought of intelligent life living outside your world is a tad more interesting than any friendship lesson from Twilight and her friends.

                                            "Okay Anon, humor me. Tell me about your kind and the world you're from."

                                            >You make your self comfortable on the couch, as you hope he has some fantastical stories to share.

                                            "I could use an entertaining story or perhaps your memory coincidentally was wiped when you came to OUR world," you say with a hint of sarcasm.

                                            >"Well you wanna hear about me, the current state of my world, or just the general history of my people? The latter is mostly just wars."

                                            >You perk your head up. Did he just say wars? Multiple?"

                                            "Your people have had a war? like a full fledged war amongst a greater threat?"

                                            >"Oh no, mostly amongst ourselves and not just a single war, like hundreds of them. Maybe even thousands but I could be wrong on that. I didn't pay attention to history classes. Hell, we had countries at war when I came here."

                                            >Unbelievable, thousands of wars and still no victor. These are your kind of creatures.


                                            >You feel something you haven't felt before during a friendship lesson: excitement.

                                            "Feel free to tell me about any of these wars, the bigger and deadlier, the better."

                                            >"Well there we could start with World War One, it was originally called the Great War: the war to end all wars."

                                            >Every new sentence Anon says fills you with a twisted sense of joy that you have completely forgotten you were on a friendship lesson.

                                            "But why is it called World War One?"

                                            >"Oh an even bigger and greater war broke out like 20 years later.

                                            >You are no longer laying down and Anon now has your full attention.

                                            >Anon goes on for what feels like hours.

                                            >He calls his planet Earth and it sounds like a dangerous playground to you as he entices you more and more with every story.

                                            >Eventually his stories branch off into things he calls movies, stories of moving images and sound he explains.

                                            >They even make movies of the bloody wars they've had.

                                            >Anon talks for hours, every minute more interesting than the last until he pauses.

                                            >"Oh shit, sun's starting to set."

                                            >You break out of your trance and look behind you as the orange glow of the setting sun fills the windows.

                                            >Turning back towards Anon, you don't know whether to be angry at him for wasting your whole day or thankful for telling such fascinating stories.

                                            >Then it hits you. This feeling.

                                            >You were only a filly, before the accident.

                                            >You would spend all day playing with Glitterdrops and Spring Rain til the sun came down.

                                            >Even though it would feel like minutes, you and your friends would lose track of time as hours pass by.

                                            >It's the last time you truly felt happy.

                                            >Until now.

                                            >"Hey Fizzlepop, is something wrong?"

                                            >Your mind snaps back to the present; there are tears in your eyes.

                                            >Anon is leaning towards you in his seat with a concerned look on his face.

                                            >You wipe the tears away still shocked that you are feeling such strong emotions.

                                            "Wait a minute, I never told you my real name," you jump from your seat, horn glowing, and your nostrils flared, "Twilight set this whole thing up, you're just an actor in this play."

                                            >Anon leans back in his couch, barely affected by your intimidation attempt.


                                            >"Sorry Tempest," you ease your muscles, "but Twilight didn't set this up. She never told me you were in Ponyville, let alone sending you to my place today."

                                            >You remain skeptical but there's a nagging feeling that there's truth behind his words.

                                            "Then why on Equestria would she send me here if it wasn't a planned friendship lesson?"

                                            >You try to work out the logic in your own head as Anon scratches his chin, also pondering.

                                            >"Perhaps she believes we can help each other's problems."

                                            >You look up into Anon's eyes, surprised to hear he has problems too.

                                            >The way he carried himself as he told his stories made you think he was living on cloud nine.

                                            "I'm sorry Anon but friendship problems aren't my forte. Now if you need me to stop an evil threat from taking over Ponyville, I'm your mare."

                                            >"Well it's not really a friendship problem and it's not a threat or anything. But I really enjoyed talking about my home world with you Tempest. I appreciate you listening."

                                            >You sit down on the floor, now calm and collected.

                                            >Back to the whole alien thing, but now a part of you hopes he is telling the truth.

                                            "It should be I who should thank you. Your stories are the most interesting things I've heard in a long time. Sure beats living in this dull land."

                                            >Anon smiles at you and you return one back, a real, genuine smile.

                                            >"So I guess you'll be heading back to Twilight's then, tell her the lesson went good. Maybe she won't have to send you on any other friendship lessons.

                                            >Your smile melts away, realizing you have to head home.

                                            >You really just want to stay and hear more stories but you know you must return and report back to Twilight.

                                            >"If you want, I can walk back with you to Twilight's. I can tell you another story."

                                            >Can Anon read your mind? It all starting to make sense.

                                            >How could anyone understand your pain unless they could SEE how you truly feel.

                                            >At this point, you probably wouldn't even be surprised now but you still have to check.

                                            "You can read my mind can't you? That's how you figured out my name!"

                                            >"Sorry, but I can't read minds either. That is a yes on the walk back though?"

                                            >You nod your head softly as Anon opens the door for you.

                                            >The two of you head out towards Twilight's castle.

                                            >"So remember that story about the killer robot from the future?"

                                            "Yes, I found it very amusing."

                                            >"Well they made a sequel and it's better than the first one."

                                            >The walk back home was a little over half an hour but it felt like one of the nights you would spend with your friends.


                                            >You and Anon arrive just outside Twilight's castle

                                            >"And then he says, 'I lied' and lets him go."

                                            >You both let out a hardy laugh.

                                            "I'll have to remember that one," you devilishly say under your breath.

                                            >You both stop just in front of the golden steps leading to the front doors.

                                            >"Twilight's castle. Home sweet home I'm sure," Anon says with an ironic tone.

                                            >Anon glances over to you and sees the somber expression you hold.

                                            >"You can tell me what's bugging you, I'm happy to do some listening instead."

                                            "I actually had fun today Anon but I'm afraid I still don't understand why Twilight sent me to you today. She's just going to pester me about what I learned and I just don't want to disappoint her. I've done that enough already."

                                            >Anon kneels down beside you, now looking at you at eye-level.

                                            >"Then tell her you need some more time, I'm free tomorrow as well so if you want to hang again."

                                            >Your eyes widen as your body fills with joy: the same joy that you felt as a filly.

                                            "I'd like to hear more stories, your world is vastly more interesting than Equestria."

                                            >Anon nods his head, "Of course. I'll try and wake up earlier tomorrow so can make the most out of the day. But if I don't answer, feel free to wake me up again."

                                            >Anon stands up, winks his eye, and walks past you back towards his cottage, "Have good night Tempest."

                                            "And you as well Anon."

                                            >You ascend the stairs and enter the castle, Twilight has set up a desk with piles of books and parchment paper. She must have been waiting for your return for hours.

                                            >She appears both surprised and weary by your entrance.

                                            >"Tempest! I was starting to worry that you already left town. Were you with Anon all day?"

                                            >You shut the door behind you.

                                            "I was. I'm afraid I didn't quite find what I've been searching for..."

                                            >Twilight's head droops down, "Oh, I understand..."

                                            "...but, I think it's a step in the right direction. Would it be alright if I stay here a little longer and go back tomorrow?"

                                            >Twilight's face lights up with the biggest smile you've ever seen.

                                            >"Yes, yes, yes, yes!" She runs over to hug you before stopping herself, her eyes are met with your glaring eyes.

                                            >You also aren't the hugging type. You walk around her and up some stairs towards your room before turning back towards Twilight.

                                            "Before I forget, Anon told me some things about being from another world? Full of great wars, is there any truth behind that?"

                                            >Twilight avoids eye contact, "I'm afraid so. He hasn't shared too much with me, but yes, he seems to be telling the truth."

                                            "Perfect" you whisper to yourself, before heading up the stairs some more. "Thanks, and good night Twilight."

                                            >"Good night Tempest." Twilight says as she goes back towards her books.

                                            >That night, you dream of battling hordes of humans by yourself. It was a good dream.


                                            >Every morning this week became the same: wake up, eat breakfast, and either spend time with Anon or do various jobs around town.

                                            >Each time you spend with Anon is better than the last as his stories keep enticing you. You almost start to wish you could see his world with your own eyes.

                                            >Today however, Anon is busy with his own work. You didn't pry but it seems he also does side work around the area as well.

                                            >You're on your way west to some rock farm as they need some extra help and you can't imagine a more isolated work void of any friendship lessons.

                                            >The extra bits is a nice bonus too.

                                            >Although Twilight offers free room and board, you still feel the need to provide for yourself. Plus it gets you away from her and her friendship brigade.

                                            >Some ponies in Ponyville didn't even know about the Storm King's invasion of Canterlot so there's a good chance none of these farmers know about you either.

                                            >It's strange that of all ponies, Pinkie Pie is the one to tell you about this job opportunity. You're curious as how she would know of such a place given her demeanor.

                                            >You arrive early in the morning by train and it's not much of a walk to the farm.

                                            >The view before you fills you with a sense of security: a desolate and dried up land filled with rocks as far as the eye can see, shadowed by the gray overcast.

                                            >There's a single mare mining at a large rock, with a light periwinkle coat and a gray flat mane. She notices you and looks up at you with glaring eyes as she greets you with a gravely voice.

                                            >"I'm guessing you're Tempest? Name's Limestone, Pinkie Pie said you'd be hard to miss."

                                            >You stop in place.

                                            "Wait, is Pinkie Pie here?"

                                            >"Not today, my sister rarely even does work here when she does visit so nothing lossed there."

                                            >Oh no. You're not ready to handle another Pie in your life.

                                            "You're sister...is Pinkie Pie?"

                                            >The gray pony rolls her eyes and groans. Seems she has been through this exact conversation before.

                                            >"This is the Pie Rock Farm and Pinkie is basically the black sheep of the family. None of us are affectionate and open as Pinkie is if that's your worry."

                                            >Oh thank Celestia.

                                            "Well in that case I believe we are going to get along just fine, just show me what needs to be done and I'll get to work."

                                            >Limestone smirks at you, "Alright, head to the West side field. We've got a newer recruit there so he'll show you what needs to be done and don't worry. He may look odd, but he's got a few cool stories to share."

                                            >You make your way past the the farm house as you see another pony in the fields, with a gray coat and a darker colored mane.

                                            >She makes eye contact but immediately hides behind a rock. Perhaps news about your exploits spread further than you could imagine.

                                            >In the Western field, you survey the land and see no other worker here. That's when you hear the creak and swinging of the farm house storm door.

                                            >"Well I'll be damned, what brings you out here Tempest?"

                                            >That voice. You turn with the largest smile on your face.


                                            >"I was just getting some water, even with the overcast it's still toasty out here."

                                            >You haven't even noticed the heat, let alone the sweat already building up underneath your uniform.

                                            "I'm here for work, a fair day's pay," you say as you flash a quick smile.

                                            >Anon laughs, "Well we're definitely going to earn that pay today. Some pegasi are supposed to come by later and clear the skies."

                                            "The four most powerful ponies couldn't stop me, I'm sure I can handle a little heat."

                                            >"If you say so, come on, I'll show you what needs to be done."

                                            >The two of you spend the day carrying rocks, smashing rocks, and lifting rocks. All while listening to more of Anon's stories.

                                            >A little past noon a squad of pegasi fly by and clear the overcast.

                                            >More hours pass, and you continue to fight off the heat.

                                            >Your uniform isn't helping either, it's great in winter but it's something you refuse to take off in front of others.

                                            >Just a few more hours, you think to yourself.

                                            >At least the day is going by fast with Anon's stories.

                                            >"So there's a bomb on the bus, which is like a really long carriage, but anyways..."

                                            >As Anon talks, his voice starts to mumble as your eyes get harder to keep open.

                                            >Unbeknownst to you, you pass out due to over exertion.

                                            >A cool splash hits your face as you wake up underneath a large tree. The skittish gray pony from earlier has an empty cup in her mouth and you feel someone tugging at your uniform.

                                            >Your uniform!

                                            >You see Anon attempting to rip your uniform off as your confusion turns to rage.

                                            >Using your hind legs, you kick Anon away, but you're much weaker than you thought and just push him away.

                                            >"Tempest stop, you're dehydrated and weak. We need to take this uniform off and cool you down, Marble go get more cold water."

                                            >The gray pony makes a slight murmur before running away.

                                            "No! No pony can see me..."

                                            >Whatever adrenaline came from waking up is now fleeting. You nearly pass out again.

                                            >"Tempest, we have to remove this uniform quickly. You could die."

                                            >Your breathing is heavy and your mind is racing. You've had a good reason for covering yourself, the final thing that connects you to the past you've been trying to fix.

                                            >The final buckles become undone, as Anon takes off your old Storm King Uniform.

                                            >A wave of melancholy and embarrassment takes you over.

                                            >"You have no cutie mark..."


                                            >"A grown mare with no cutie mark. I thought you'd have like a lightning bolt or something."

                                            >You're too tired to reply and only tears form in your eyes.

                                            >Everything this past week has been breaking you down for better or for worse.

                                            >Anon's surprise finally dissipates and he realizes the emotional anguish you feel.

                                            >He looks back towards the farm, looking for another pony.

                                            >Anon takes his shirt off and wraps it around your flank. He makes eye contact with you and smiles as he ties a knot.

                                            >"Do any other ponies know?"

                                            >You shake your head.

                                            "No one."

                                            >"Other than the obvious embarrassment, you feeling a little better."

                                            >You nod your head this time.

                                            >You can feel yourself cooling down with every passing second, but you still feel like you've just fought an entire army.

                                            >"Just relax for now, don't try to move much or say much. Marble will be back shortly with some water."

                                            "Thank you Anon."

                                            >The thought of having your life saved by another pony really irks you, but Anon saving you feels better somehow.

                                            >You hear the another pony arrive, it must be Marble.

                                            >"Mmm-hmph" Marble hums as she hands a pitcher of water to Anon.

                                            >He carefully lifts your head up and allows you to drink.

                                            >Shortly after Limestone walks joins the group under the tree, "Heat stroke?"

                                            >Everyone nods.

                                            >Limestone groans, "I'll get the bath drawn. Anon, you good to carry her to the house and up a flight of stairs?"

                                            >"I should manage."

                                            >Limestone turns to you and sees how distraught you are. You haven't felt this vulnerable since the accident.

                                            >"Don't worry Tempest, this bath we'll make for you has some magical rocks to help revitalize your body. This isn't the first time a pony got heat stroke out here."

                                            >Limestone leaves and Marble follows suite. Anon bends back down to pick you up, carefully avoiding accidentally undoing the tied up shirt around your flank.

                                            >You want to protest but you have to accept your fate.

                                            >Being carried off a field by a strange alien creature.


                                            >Before you know it you're all in the farm house and in the bathroom, the coolness of the house already makes you feel better.

                                            >"Alright Anon, take that rag off her and toss her in." Limestone says.

                                            >Your eyes widen.

                                            >"If you ladies wouldn't mind, would you offer Tempest and I some privacy?"

                                            >Limestone and Marble share a confused glance and Marble then shrugs.

                                            >Limestone is cautious, "Fine. But we'll be right outside the door if you need anything. Come on Marble."

                                            >The two rock farmers leave and shut the door behind them.

                                            >Anon removes unties his shirt and carefully lays you into the bath.

                                            >It's cooling temperature sends a shiver down your back but quickly turns warm and relaxing.

                                            >"Feeling better?"

                                            "Much! Thank you Anon, it truly means a lot to me."

                                            >You feel too sentimental now. The plague that is Twilight and her friends must finally be rubbing off on you.

                                            >Anon acts bashful, "Oh it was nothing, you ponies aren't very heavy so it was no big deal."

                                            "No, the other thing," you move your eyes towards the tub, "Thanks for making them leave."

                                            >Anon nods his head, he seems oddly too pure despite the world he came from.

                                            >"Listen, if I ever step past some boundary or something just let me know, but if you want I know someone who may be able to help you."

                                            "What do you mean by help me?"

                                            >Anon sits down, his back against the door, "Let's just say I know three ponies that are experts at helping others get their cutie marks."

                                            >You sulk back into the tub, the thought of having to rely on other ponies to help you still makes you feel undignified.

                                            >But it is the one thing you haven't tried yet.

                                            >"I see that you're the lone wolf kind of pony, but whats the harm in trying this? Best case scenario you discover your cutie mark, worst case you're in the same position you are now. Nothing to lose."

                                            >You let out a loud groan.

                                            "I'll meet these ponies."

                                            >Anon smiles and nods his head, "Trust me, you'd be surprised at how many ponies they've helped."

                                            >You stay in the bath for another five minutes before Limestone knocks on the door.

                                            >"You should feel good as new now Tempest, we're calling it quits for today so you two can head home."

                                            >You get out of the bath as Anon hands you your uniform. After dressing again you both collect your bits for the day and head back to the train station.

                                            >You spent majority of the train ride contemplating the upcoming days, getting help from other ponies.

                                            >Conquering the various towns around Equestria: simple.

                                            >Capturing all four alicorn princesses: a walk in the park.

                                            >But this may be one of the hardest things you will ever do.


                                            >You both exit the train, as you realize you will be heading to different directions from here.

                                            >"I'll come by Twilight castle as early as I can tomorrow, those ponies I told you about live in Ponyville."

                                            >You feel a slight blush, you don't want to be caught by any ponies as you try to get your cutie mark.

                                            >Anon takes notice, "Don't worry, you can wear your uniform and if anypony asks, we're just helping with some chores. Trust me."

                                            "I trust you."

                                            >You haven't said that truthfully in years.

                                            >You both part ways and head to your respective homes.

                                            >Twilight awaits you once again, "So how did today go?"

                                            >You don't remember your own parents being this persistent.

                                            "It was...eventful to say the least."

                                            >"So you are DEFINITELY staying in Ponyville longer?"

                                            "I will, I'll be spending tomorrow and possibly the whole weekend with Anon. We have some chores and jobs to do."

                                            >"I understand, I'm glad to hear you'll be extending your stay here and I hope you're making progress."

                                            >You nod your head and start to ascend the stairs.

                                            "Tomorrow will decide how much PROGRESS I make, but thank you Princess."

                                            >You continue up the stairs and hear a brief gleeful squeal.

                                            >You go and wash your uniform as you prepare to head to bed.

                                            >It takes you some time to fall asleep, as the possibility of finally getting your cutie mark keeps you up.

                                            >You've known this feeling before, last time was when you first met the Storm King.

                                            >Hope.


                                            >Morning as usual.

                                            >You awake with a smile on your face, that's a rare feat.

                                            >Breakfast was silent, Twilight must have spent the evening reading instead of sleeping.

                                            >This day couldn't get any better, you thought to yourself. But perhaps it could.

                                            >If Twilight wasn't so mindless this morning, she may have noticed the odd smile on your face.

                                            >You sit outside awaiting Anon, but only ten minutes pass by until you see him off in the distance.

                                            >You meet halfway and exchange pleasantries.

                                            "So where to?"

                                            >"Sweet Apple Acres."

                                            >Applejack. Of Twilight's friends she and Rainbow Dash are the two more bearable ponies in Twilight's circle of friends.

                                            >Loyalty and Honesty, strong and quick, all great attributes you wanted in the soldiers you led.

                                            >Doesn't mean they don't get on your nerve.

                                            "You could have told me Applejack was one of these ponies. It may have changed my decision."

                                            >"We aren't seeing AJ, not even any of Twilight's circle of friends. Well, sort of."

                                            >"If you want to back out at any time, just let me know."

                                            >Implying you would ever surrender before even starting.

                                            "If I can survive Pinkie Pie, I can handle any pony."

                                            >Anon chuckles under his breath.

                                            >You arrive on the outskirts of the Apple's farm.

                                            >Before you is a tiny tree-house with some small stairs leading up.

                                            >You stare in confusion before Anon interrupts.

                                            >"Ready to meet your teachers?"

                                            "Is this some kind of joke, because I don't find this amusing."

                                            >"Trust me, all three of them got their cutie marks, by helping others get their cutie marks."

                                            >You sigh and begrudgingly climb up the tiny stairs as Anon follows behind you.

                                            >Muffled sounds of childish voices come from beyond the door.

                                            >You at one point in time were the leading conqueror of Canterlot. Reduced to asking fillies for help.

                                            >You knock on the door.


                                            >The voices quiet down.

                                            >The door creaks open as three tiny fillies stare through the cracked door.

                                            >You've reached a new low and glare back at Anon.

                                            >"Trust me," he says. "Apple Bloom, Sweetie Belle, Scootaloo, you may know Tempest Shadow here and she has a favor to ask of you."

                                            >The three fillies exchange confused glances amongst themselves before Apple Bloom speaks up, "We've seen you helping around Ponyville before, but what do you need us to help you with?"

                                            >You've met these fillies before, they're sisters of Twilight's friends. Perhaps Scootaloo was adopted? You didn't care to ask about the relationship.

                                            >Anon gestures with his hand to you.

                                            >Your heart starts beating faster, as you sigh. You unbuckle your uniform and it falls to the wooden floor.

                                            >The three fillies stare at your blank flank before simultaneously squealing louder than the brakes on a locomotive.

                                            >They start jumping around, clearly excited to see your blank flank.

                                            >Then Apple Bloom stops and gets a serious look on her face. "Cutie Mark Crusaders, huddle up!"

                                            >The other two stop themselves and they form a secluded huddle.

                                            >They begin whispering amongst themselves while glancing back at you.

                                            >You adorn your uniform while they continue their chatter, feeling angry and embarrassed.

                                            >They turn back towards you as the Apple Bloom steps forward, "Miss Tempest, you have come to the right place. We can guarantee you that we'll help you get your cutie mark or your money back!"

                                            >Scootaloo turns to Apple Bloom confused, "Wait since when did we start charging for our services?"

                                            >"Well, we don't but it sounded like the professional thing to say." Apple Bloom says. "First things first Tempest, is there any specific things you care to share with us about yourself. Any topics you think fondly of?"

                                            >You roll your eyes and give in, sitting on the floor of the filly sized tree-house.

                                            "Well, I'm not too fond of other ponies but I'd say I'm fairly strong and don't mind physical labor. I was a leader of an entire army, I conquered Canterlot once, and I can do this," you say before stepping outside.

                                            >The Crusaders watch from one of their windows as you launch one of your fireworks into the sky.

                                            >You step back in as Scootaloo jumps in your face, "You...are...the.. coolest pony EVER!"

                                            >She then covers her mouth as if she just spoke blasphemy.

                                            >Apple Bloom speaks up, "Alright Crusaders, are we ready for our ultimate challenge?"

                                            >Anon speaks up, "One thing Crusaders, this has to be on the down low. If anypony asks, you can't tell them about Tempest being a blank flank."

                                            >The three of them look at each other and bump hooves while shouting, "Secret Cutie Mark Crusaders ultimate challenge...yay!"

                                            >This is going to be a long day.


                                            >You, Anon, and the Cutie Mark Crusaders head off into the fields of Sweet Apple Acres.

                                            >"I've seen you help my big sis around the farm once or twice but with easy work."

                                            "Yes, she mostly used easy work to try and teach me a friendship lesson. Also a thing I'm not fond of."

                                            >"Understood. So let's try some real farming work."

                                            >You did enjoy your time on the rock farm, despite the unfortunate outcome. Maybe these fillies can help you after all.

                                            "Should be an easy day."

                                            >You spend the better half of the day plowing fields, bucking apples, and destroying old dead trees.

                                            >The work is easy and feels like a decent workout, but nothing feels exceptional in your mind.

                                            >One of the trees you bucked, some of the apples roll down a hill towards a dense forest where the farm ends.

                                            >Apple Bloom hurries down the hill to grab every last apple.

                                            >You notice her leaving in the corner of your eyes and looking down where she's heading you notice something else.

                                            >Those green glowing eyes lurking in the dense forest.

                                            >Apple Bloom is picking up the final apples when out from behind her comes a timberwolf.

                                            >It's roar paralyzes Apple Bloom as she falls over in fear.

                                            >The timberwolf lurks closer, fixated on the tiny filly.

                                            >Too bad you're here.

                                            >You were galloping towards Apple Bloom the moment you saw those green eyes, before anypony knew what was about to happen.

                                            >Before the timberwolf could open its mouth you were already pivoting and launching your hind legs faster then ever before.

                                            >BOOM

                                            >With a single kick, the timberwolf explodes as branches, leaves, and logs scatter on the ground.

                                            >Apple Bloom is still in shock as you help her up on all fours.

                                            >"How did...you were...you, you saved my life." Apple Bloom pauses and contemplates what just happened, "How did you know there was a timberwolf, usually you can hear them howl."

                                            "Living on my own, I had to learn to watch my back. Once I became a leader, I had to watch the backs of my subordinates. It's become second nature to me."

                                            >You help Apple Bloom back on her hooves.

                                            >"So...how did you like farming today?" Apple Bloom gives a worried smile.

                                            "It was enjoyable but boring. That timberwolf was the most exciting thing all day.

                                            >"Oh applesauce, I was hoping farming was for you. You're a natural at bucking apples!"

                                            >You all gather up and head back towards the tree-house.

                                            >Nothing more to do here but move onto the next task.


                                            >After reconvening at the tree-house, you all follow Sweetie Belle who leads the next adventure.

                                            >You arrive on the outskirts of Ponyville, still wondering what she has in store for you.

                                            >"Tempest, you truly are a one of a kind pony and with that awesome horn of yours you could become a start performer!"

                                            >Having a fellow unicorn compliment your horn tugs a certain heartstring but the idea of being a performer is a tad belittling in your opinion.

                                            "I don't know Sweetie Belle, I think I can tell you I already despise this plan."

                                            >"But you won't know until you try it! And I know a certain somepony that could help you get into the business!"

                                            >Great, another pony thrown into this mix. Twilight always said it's important you step out of your comfort zone.

                                            >Today, you not only left your comfort zone, but it's going to take weeks to get back into it.

                                            >There's still a slight chance you get your cutie mark and find that purpose you've been searching for.

                                            >If you can't find it after all these years, how can three fillies find it in a day.

                                            >You arrive at a decently sized purple travelers cart.

                                            >Sweetie Belle goes up and knocks on the door.

                                            >Scuffling is heard that turns into a boisterous ruckus.

                                            >The door opens as a light azure colored unicorn steps out.

                                            >"Who dare disturb the Great and Powerful Trixie while she is napping?"

                                            >She looks down towards the little filly.

                                            >"Hi miss Trixie, our friend here was interested in assisting you with your performances, she's gota neat little trick that you might find...explosive."

                                            >Trixie looks up towards you and realizes who you really are.

                                            >"You're the unicorn that captured the princesses and practically enslaved us."

                                            >And you could do it again if you really wanted to. You remain unfazed by her remark

                                            "That would be me."

                                            >"Well, from another reformed unicorn, Trixie will happily judge your performance. With Starlight busy with Twilight's school, the Great and Powerful Trixie could use another part time assistant."

                                            >Trixie trots out of her cart and leads them to stage she has set up behind her cart.

                                            >"Get on up there and show Trixie what you're made of! Anon, we shall sit in the crowd and judge her performance."

                                            >You stand at the stairs leading up to the tall stage.

                                            >This isn't the worst fear you've experienced, but it doesn't mean it doesn't sting.


                                            >Living in this town has made you soft.

                                            >Sweetie Belle nudges on your foreleg and whispers, "You conquered Canterlot, I know you can conquer this stage."

                                            >Years of conditioning, survival, and foes fought.

                                            >And it's all led here.

                                            >You're now contemplating whether a cutie mark is worth this or not.

                                            >Before you know it Sweetie Belle is dragging you up the stairs.

                                            >If you can call it dragging.

                                            >Apple Bloom and Scootaloo are on the side hollering and cheering you on.

                                            >You groan under your breath and let off a series of fireworks from your horn.

                                            >Trixie is not only impressed, but amazed.

                                            >The others have stopped their cheering and have replaced it with oohs and ahhs.

                                            >Sweetie Belle slowly moves back in an attempt to get a better angle at your explosive art.

                                            >You notice her next to the edge of the stage with no sign of stopping.

                                            >In a quick blur, Sweetie Belle loses her footing and is about to fall backwards.

                                            >You dashed over, practically tackling her, and falling on your back to break her fall.

                                            >The fall wasn't a problem for you but for a little filly, it could have ended in a problematic situation.

                                            "You gotta always pay attention to your surroundings Sweetie Belle or you may end up like me one day."

                                            >You both get up and dust yourselves off.

                                            >Sweetie Belle looks up to you with sad and confused eyes, "What would be so bad about becoming you?"

                                            "Look at me. I'm beaten, battered, and bitter. You have a home in this world, I clearly do not. I wouldn't wish the things I went through upon any other pony."

                                            >"Well all I see is a beautiful unicorn who protects others. I'd like to be that."

                                            >You can't think of anything to say.

                                            >You storm off without saying a word.

                                            >Everyone follows you, calling out your name, except for Trixie.

                                            >"Trixie will be here in case you wish to try again!" Trixie exclaims.

                                            >Everyone is too busy trying to catch up to you to hear her.


                                            >You're a warrior, a leader, and you're done with these silly games.

                                            >Anon and the Crusaders catch up.

                                            >"Miss Tempest, we can move onto the next thing if you want," Sweetie Belle says.

                                            >"Yeah, Scootaloo says she has a great idea that you'll truly love." Apple Bloom adds.

                                            >You keep your head up high as you gaze upon the fillies, as Scootaloo creeps forward.

                                            >"Can I at least tell you what I had planned for you?"

                                            >Her sad eyes stare at you and you find it hard to stare back.

                                            >You sit down and relax yourself.

                                            "One last thing, then I'm leaving this forsaken town."

                                            >Scootaloo's face beams as she huddles up with the other Cutie Mark Crusaders.

                                            > Their meeting is brief, as Scootaloo leads the way.

                                            >You walk behind them alongside Anon.

                                            >He looks down at you as you glare at him.

                                            "You're going to owe me a week of stories for this mockery."

                                            >He simply chuckles, "The day isn't over yet."

                                            >You all walk for about an hour, being lead to a clearing  near the path you're on.

                                            >Before you stands a crudely built obstacle course.

                                            >Scootaloo runs ahead, eager to present the challenge for today.

                                            >She clears her throat, "Tempest, you're fast, agile, and one of the strongest ponies I've ever met. So, why not utilize all your skills and become a world famous..." pausing for dramatic effect, "stuntpony!"

                                            >You remain stoic and unamused.

                                            >"Best part is we can make you a uniform that completely covers you so you can remain anonymous!"

                                            >"I'm sorry what?" Anon

                                            >"No not you Anon." Scootaloo adds.

                                            >You aren't keen on the idea, but it definitely is the best thing these fillies have come up with all day.

                                            >The obstacle course appears simple enough so you decide to humor them once more.


                                            >You step up to what appears to be the beginning of the course.

                                            >Just some staggered platforms to ascend, hoops to jump through, and a large barrel to jump over with about twenty foot drop to the ground.

                                            >Easiest task so far.

                                            >You jump up the several platform to some scaffolding where three hoops at different heights stand before.

                                            >Each hoop is easier than the last.

                                            >Finally a large metal barrel, twice the size of a full grown stallion.

                                            >You hop over it with ease but your back-legs clip the barrel as you fall to the ground.

                                            >Scootaloo is standing below as you land past her, her eyes were glued on you the whole time.

                                            >"That was amazing! You were almost as fast as Rainbow Dash..."

                                            >You smile at her but your attention is towards something else.

                                            >You hear a creaking coming from above you and as you peer up you see that the barrel wasn't stationary.

                                            >That barrel is falling towards you and Scootaloo, she's oblivious to the the impeding danger.

                                            >Piece of cake.

                                            >As the barrel falls and just before it crushes Scootaloo, you pivot and kick with all your might.

                                            >The barrel bends around your legs as it flies a few feet away, make a loud clanging sound that rings in Scootaloo's ears.

                                            >Everyone remains silent.

                                            "What is with you fillies and your affinity for dangerous situations? Why do you always need saving?"

                                            >Scootaloo's face carries a sense of shame but then changes as she has an epiphany.

                                            >She looks up to you, "Why do you always save us?"

                                            >You step back, unsure on how to answer.

                                            >Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom step next to Scootaloo.

                                            >"Did it feel good to save us?" Sweetie Belle adds.

                                            >You feel your emotions taking over again as tears well in your eyes.

                                            >You look away, but you can't move.

                                            >The plague of Ponyville has finally gotten the best of you.

                                            "Yes!" you yell out as the tears run down your cheeks. "There's that warm feeling I get but this isn't the life for me. I've hurt and betray so many others, living a life of protecting would just feel like another lie."

                                            >You sit down, defeated. A shell of a former conqueror who was in turn a shell of another pony. You feel as if your heart is being pulled in all directions.

                                            "I would just be a hypocrite, I can't escape my past. I've become so weak."

                                            >You're finding it difficult to find anything to say.

                                            >Anon kneels beside you and throws his arm around you. If you weren't so distraught, you'd snap at him.


                                            >"Your past doesn't define who you are, it's merely a sliver of who you were and builds upon who you can become. If you were truly the same pony that captured the princesses, you wouldn't had saved these fillies." Anon says.

                                            >You hate to agree, but you know it to be true. You always believed this sentimentality would lead to your demise, a flaw that would get exploited.

                                            >"The fact that you feel good about saving others shows that you have changed, you ARE a different pony. A pony that was just dealt a bad hand and look at how far you got despite that."

                                            "But what about those that know what I've done, how would they feel when the pony that once enslaved them, is now saving them?"

                                            >"If any are still holding a grudge, they'll have to forgive you after you save them."

                                            >You wipe away the tears, remembering the last time you felt such strong emotions. It was just after your run in with the ursa.

                                            >In the back of your mind, you imagine yourself being there to protect your past self. You imagine Sweetie Belle, Apple Bloom, and Scootaloo being there, with no one to protect them from the Ursa.

                                            >Your heart breaks.

                                            "What if some never forgive me. I've held onto a grudge ever since I was a filly, others may do the same."

                                            >Anon lets out a heavy sigh, "There's only one pony that needs to forgive you Tempest." You turn to look Anon in the eye. "Yourself."

                                            >Ever since the defeat of the Storm King, you've kept reminding yourself of the evils you committed, to never forget what you had become. It was your penance.

                                            >"Are you strong enough to do that, Tempest?" Anon asks.

                                            >You never forgave yourself for what you did.

                                            >Until now.

                                            "Yes. Yes I am. Thank you, Anon."

                                            >Anon pats you on the back.

                                            >That's when you feel something tingling, almost a warm spasm on your flank.

                                            >You get up and undo the rear part of your uniform, hidden from the view of Anon and the Cutie Mark Crusaders.

                                            >That's where you see it, your cutie mark.

                                            >That warm feeling in your heart comes back in full force as you tighten up your uniform once more.

                                            >"Did...did you get your cutie mark?!" Apple Bloom yells.

                                            >You smile and nod your head, tears of joy slowly running down your cheeks.

                                            >All three of the fillies surround you, their voices a muddled mess of asking you if they can see it.

                                            >You walk past them and turn your head back towards them.

                                            "Maybe one day girls, but I got some business to attend to. Thank you, for everything."

                                            >The Crusaders are disappointed but are satisfied with helping a grown mare get her cutie mark.

                                            "Oh and one more thing: this remains a secret to us and us only."

                                            >The Crusaders head back towards their clubhouse, another job well done. Anon walks back to Ponyville with you.

                                            "You know, you're pretty good with those speeches. Sounded like something from one of your movies."

                                            >"Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. You wanna hear another movie?"

                                            "I'd love that."


                                            >A month has passed.

                                            >After making amends with Princess Celestia and Princess Luna you decided to offer your services as part of the royal guard.

                                            >The Princesses were almost too eager to have a pony of your abilities training current and new recruits.

                                            >You rise in rankings rather quickly, but you never cared for any of that.

                                            >You save others now, and due to your strength, agility, and prowess, you are really good at it.

                                            >One of the best.

                                            >Some of the residents of Canterlot and even some of the guard were initially cautious of you, but now everyone has become quite fond of you.

                                            >Still, you prefer isolation on patrols and you almost never spend time outside of work with the other guards.

                                            >Today however, you're in Canterlot at a restaurant, sitting at a table for two. Off duty.

                                            >You're the only one at the table.

                                            >"Is this seat taken?" a familiar voice asks.

                                            >You look up from the menu to see Anon who has just sat down.

                                            >"It's great to see you again Tempest."

                                            "It's great to see you again too, Anon."

                                            >Anon grabs a menu and surprise overcomes his face.

                                            >He must have seen the prices.

                                            "Don't worry Anon, it's on me today."

                                            >"What's the special occasion?"

                                            "I wanted to properly thank you. If it weren't for meeting you, I wouldn't be where I am today. I would had went off from Ponyville in search of something I could never find. Only in Ponyville."

                                            >"I'm glad I could have helped. I'm proud of you Tempest."

                                            >There's a brief silence.

                                            >"Remember how I said I sort of knew Twilight's lessons before she gave them to me?"

                                            "Yeah, I think I recall you saying something like that."

                                            >"Well in my world, there was this show. There were quite a few similarities to Twilight and her friends and a huge emphasis on friendship lessons.

                                            >You lean forward. It feels like ages since hearing about one of Anon's stories from his world.

                                            >"Anyways, in this show there were tons of characters but one stood out to me above the rest."

                                            >"A character who had betrayed her own kind and nearly brought upon the end of their civilization. But to her it would be all worth it for she was trying to fix herself cause to her, she was broken."

                                            "Then what happened?"  You lean forward some more.

                                            >"She eventually made the sacrifice to save her kind and fix all she had done, she was able to fix everything except herself. Any chance of fixing herself was out of the question."


                                            >"But in the end she realized that those broken parts were what made her beautiful, made her powerful, and made her perfect. She was my favorite character.

                                            >You start to feel tears in your eyes.

                                            >Anon leans back in his chair.

                                            >"To me, she taught one of the better lessons of friendship," Anon says as he leans forward.

                                            >"Learning to love yourself, forgive your past, and live for your future: that's the magic of friendship Tempest."

                                            >Tears begin to run down your cheeks.

                                            >Anon grabs your left hoof and squeezes it softly.

                                            >You feel happy. You feel alive. You feel like yourself again.

                                            "Please, you are my friend Anon. Call me Fizzlepop."