Anon's Rebirth (Final Chapter)

>You are able to stand up after sitting in the middle of the graveyard for a few minutes and after defeating ... well, yourself
>The sun has risen and shines ironically down on you and your friends just as nothing happened
>Pain shoots through every bone inside you as you slowly approximate Princess Luna
C-can you take us to Princess Celestia?
>You have a message of grave importance for her and the look on your face lefts no doubt of it
>Luna takes a look around and shakes her head
>"I fear my powers are not enough to bring as back to Canterlot."
I see...
>"I can not take everyp0ny there. But I am able to take the two of us, Anon."
>You look at your friends, asking yourself what they think about it
>The answer is simple
>"No problem, we'll take the train, even if it takes a while!"
>"Yeah, ya just go ahead!"
>Reliable as ever
>A smile unfolds on your beaten face
Thanks, girls.
>With a grim look of determination you turn back to Luna
Alright, let's go!
>She nods and her horn glows in a deep purple light
>A shiny sphere engulfs you as you feel your body dematerialize
>Ascending into ... somewhere your eyes are forced to shut because of the bright light
>Before you could even try to blink you are already inside the castle
>What a convenient way of traveling!
>Princess Luna brought you inside the royal chambers where Princess Celestia is already waiting for you on her throne
Thank you, princess.
>Luna nods and flies over to her own throne next to Celestia's
>You stumble at Celestia and a few feet away you fall to the ground
>"Hello, Anonymous. Please stand up, we don't have time for formalities."
Must be a habit of mine. Heh, didn't I tell you to call me Anon for short?
>As you try to push yourself back up your coughing stains the floor with your blood
>"Well then, Anon. We have a few things of importance to-"
>As you are able to stand back up it becomes clear that she hadn't look at you since now
>"Sister, I thought it went for the benefit of Anon?"
>"It did. He defeated the darkness spawned by his very own heart."
>By the way, you'll have to ask her how she knew you fought against a separated part of your inner self
>"Look at him! He is at the edge of collapsing!"
>She turns to you seemingly worried
>"Anon, we have to treat you first. Everything else may wait."
>If it only was that easy
I'm sorry your highness but I'll pass this time.
>"Are you-?"
Yeah, I can manage it, don't worry.
>Always acting big, huh? You should get rid off that behavior some time
>"Very well. What is your message?"
We have to think of a way to protect Ponyville and Equestria! The elements of harmony won't work if even one is missing, right? I-I-I saw vision and I'm sure something huge is going on. We have to-
>"Please simmer down, Anon. I can hardly make out what you are trying to say."
>Having the opportunity to speak out you didn't realize how fast you've spoken because of the tension inside you
>Taking a deep breath, you want to give it another try
So-
>"We already know about these circumstances."
>You exhale and give her a questioning look
>"This is why I ordered you here. As former wielders of the elements we know what should happen if one element fails to spark. But we also came up with a solution."
Okay, I'm all ears.
>"I believe my faithful student Twilight Sparkle enlightened you as to Fluttershy's current state."
>You nod and keep quite, eagerly awaiting more information
>"Someone took a part of her memories and changed it with other memories so she was more than obsessed by you."
Is she going to be alright?
>As Princess Celestia sees your worried face a warm smile appears on hers
>The yellow harasser may have gone too far sometimes (or often enough) but this time it wasn't her fault
>"After your victory over Nobody she has gotten better and I am most certain we will be able to restore her. Some memories chained deeply within her freed themselves as his doings were negated. But I'm afraid she won't have her complete memories back after changing it so drastically."
Okay. I'm just glad she'll be fine. But why do you need me?
>"This is why I'm very proud of your achievements. Let me explain it to you. Currently a mass of negativity is building up. It is something I faced not long ago and it is growing stronger every moment. The only one able to possess such might is none other than King Sombra. He was once banned for thousand years but unfortunately I won't be able to ban him for another thousand years."
>What's with the thousand-years-banning anyways?
>"With the elements temporarily broken we won't be able to stop him. And I am afraid his next target will be Canterlot and Ponyville, using the circumstances to his advantage. The shadow you've defeated was merely a pawn to him. Indeed he was a very pitiful creature after the suffering he went through..."
And what am I able to do? Just look at me, even if I wasn't injured I don't think I'd be able to defeat a unicorn with his power!
>"You are wrong."
>Her smile turns wily
>"Have I ever told you about the special features of your human side here in Equestria?"
Er, maybe once, I can't remind it.
>"Tell me, how do you feel, Anon."
>How you feel? It's strange but you already thought about that, too
>After becoming one with your other part you felt ... sudden peace inside you
>Something returned and made you complete
>For whatever reason you feel better than ever, not considering your physical shape
>You feel...
Balanced, I guess. I don't feel an unrest or something anymore. The anger inside me ... hasn't disappeared but it ... changed. Sounds crazy, right?
>"No, not at all. After arriving in Equestria you were completely corrupted by your own nature. Once rage invaded your mind you couldn't stop yourself. Even the slightest insecurity in your friends would be enough to turn against them. Fear took the best of you."
>You blush but it's almost invisible since your face is red from your injuries
>Blood throbs painfully up your face, reviving every scratch
>So she knows what you did... damn omniscient alicorns...
>"Some would say this would prove you as a being of discord, one that would never appreciate others but try to hurt them instead. A creature seeking for strength for whatever reason."
>Yep, would be pretty much you in a nutshell. Can this get any worse?
>Nervously you shift your weight from one leg to another, ignoring the pain as shame wells up inside you
>"But you proved to be different. You valued your friends the most, even in the darkest of times. This is what makes you unique in Equestria. Never has one existed to inhere both, harmony and discord. Never has been something as a human existed here. The consequences of your possibilities would be fatal."
>You can give her that one, comparing your old world with this one
>"Watching as you were about to go astray I decided to give you another chance. You weren't able to withstand the influences of this world on your nature. It enhances negativity as it does kindness. That's why I separated the negativity inside your heart from everything else."
>Yes. She gave you the possibility of a peaceful life in Ponyville
>"But I can't make negativity vanish. It took shape. And King Sombra used this shape. This shape was called Nobody."
So ... it was you? But why? You know p0nies have been killed!!!
>Her eyes become sad as your words pierce through her
>"I never thought he'd serve Sombra. I was not able to foresee the ramifications. I... I am truly sorry."
>She looks to the ground as tears roll down her pure, white cheeks
>Must be hard to be responsible for the deaths of others as a ruler of a kingdom. And just because of some stupid mistakes...
I-I didn't mean to...
>Her sudden burst of emotions is a little too much for you right now
>Knowing her as a kind princess who always stayed strong and helped others with her wise counsel it's an unusual sight to see a weak moment of her
>"It's okay. I have to deal with it. Anyways..."
>Her head rises as her expression turned back to her usual calm and all-knowing way
>"I am responsible for separating Nobody and you. It was a kind of a stopgap solution. I knew this was not meant to last as finally you would have given in your inner desire of completion. At least it allowed you to find yourself or maybe to take a break. You weren't ready at any rate."
>Now that she mentions it... although you felt better after her spell something was still missing
>"So you went on and explored our world until you finally met your counterpart. The first time he took away one you valued as your friend. Again, I am sorry for what you have been through because of me..."
Let's leave it at that. Please continue.
>She can't quite hide the sorrow in her eyes but nonetheless she goes on
>"Tonight you've met him again. And you exceeded my keenest expectations. Not only you were able to overcome your own shadows, but you've reached a point of acception. This is what makes me so proud of you. Not many would be able to do so."
>Again that warm smile grows on her face
>This time you smile back and blush again
>Being highly praised by the princess would make everyone embarrassed
>"Can you understand what I am saying, Anon? You are neither a being of discord, nor of harmony."
W-what am I then?
>"You are a being of balance. Someone to keep the forces intact."
>A being of balance?
How does this make me special. Wait, I understand it, but how does it help me to protect Canterlot and Ponyville?
>Luna rises and takes the word
>"Only beings of balance are able to wield the special powers. So it is written for eternities. You have to understand that chaos can only be contained by someone who can balance it in order to resist it. One that is between harmony and chaos, As my sister and I are competent to maintain the balance between day and night you must maintain chaos as harmony in equal shapes. You represent the elements of disharmony."
>Elements of disharmony? Waitwaitwait, what?
What do you mean by that? Element of disharmony, am I not the complete opposite of the elements of harmony?
>Luna ponders a little while, searching for the best way to explain it to you
>"The answer would be yes as no at the same time. You inhere certain elements as the element of pain, the element of sorrow and not to forget the element of anger and others. But you are not a creature of chaos. You are in between the lanes. Accepting these feelings inside you but keeping things like happiness and friendship in your heart enables you to balance chaos and harmony."
>It kinda creeps you out to hear that you are partially some kind of maniac but a 'nice' person at the same time
Okay, I think I got it. But why me? And why now?
>Princess Celestia rises from her throne and approaches you
>"It was foretold that in times of need a being will rise to complete the elements of harmony. It may be that your absence would have ensured to keep the element of kindness intact. But King Sombra would have found another way to conquer Equestria. After all his power keeps growing and even the elements of harmony wouldn't be able to stop him."
How am I so special? I mean it could have been any other fool who's been sent to Equestria, can't it?
>"I told it already once to you but it seems you didn't listen. Would you like me to explain it again?"
>You remember how boring it was
Nah, I think I'm good.
>That isn't fully true
>Your head starts to get dizzy because of the blood loss and maybe the concussion you gained from getting beaten up
>"Let me help you, Anon."
>Princess Celestia stands right in front of you and lowers her head, just enough to touch you with her glowing horn
>Her wings spread and again you feel that warm feeling when Twilight restored you
>Your mind becomes clearer and the pain disappears
>The scratches and cuts close themselves making your skin look brand-new
>There isn't even a single scar!
>You take a step back and look at the giggling princess with a deadpan face
Why didn't you do that in the first place?!
>"I wanted to take care of you but you said I'll have to wait because of your important message, Anon."
>Oh, right. Did you mention that you should stop acting big?
>"We have a lot to discuss, element of disharmony. Come to the conference room when you are ready."
>With this she goes off, leaving you and Princess Luna alone
>As Luna stands up to follow her sister you stop her
Wait, princess!
>Her ears perk up slightly and she turns around
>"Yes, Anonymous?"
>Urgh, why don't the 'royal highnesses' get that you don't like the name
>It reminds you too much of your past and the things you did
>Things that went terribly wrong
I-I don't think you know the answer of this question but I saw a tombstone engraved with my name. It looked pretty old. Why would there be such a thing?
>To your immense surprise her ears lower and she turns pretty sad
>"It was a matter before you were even born. Things did not work out back then and it was my as my sister's fault. Maybe this is not the right time to illustrate the events of the past. Maybe I can convince her to tell it to you after we settled everything. You must understand that King Sombra has the highest priority right now."
Yes, sure...
>It still bugs you
>What happened back then? Didn't Princess Celestia mentioned another human besides you?
>A bitter smile adorns her blue face
>"You will have to know that the last human in Equestria appeared about a thousand years ago and not six hundred years as my sister told you."
B-but Discord told me he murdered that human six hundred years ago..
>"It didn't go quite that way... It wasn't exactly his fault. My sister will have to tell you the whole story."
>You'll definitely have to ask what all this fuss is about
>But she's right, it's not the time for these things
>You nod in determination
Okay. Let's go then!
>Just as you are about to enter the conference room you hear a very familiar voice
>"Anon! Won't ya wait for yer friends?"
>You turn around
Applejack? Hey there!
>Meanwhile your friends arrived as well
>You run towards AJ and embrace her as the others circle you
>"So, what did the princess tell ya?"
You know, bits and bobs.
>She gives you a stern look as you start to laugh
>"C'mon, tell us!"
>You are quite unsure how to explain that you're 'kinda' the opposite of them
Follow me! I'm just about to receive an important briefing from the princesses and I'm certain they'll want you to come along. They'll probably answer your questions, too.
>Your friends bandy mildly confused looks and follow you as you walk towards the room the princess went in
>The room you enter consists of nothing more than a big, round table with pillows around it
>Rays of the sun shimmer on the table, dipping the room in a warm light as you take a seat opposite to Princess Celestia
>The others spread around the table and sit down
>Celestia stands up and takes the word
>"Welcome, my faithful students. The reason I have gathered you today is one of particular importance. Another menace threatens to destroy peace as we know it and once again I depend on your help. A force between Hollow Shades and Ponyville is building up...."

>Approximately one hour after the princess started to instruct you about the upcoming events you leave the room, followed by your friends
>What was that all about?"
>Twilight's curiosity may be never satisfied, eh?
What do you mean? We have to get back and wait for King Sombra's arrival. Pretty clear to me.
>"That's not what I meant. You are the element of disharmony? I never read about something like that in my books, not even in the books of p0ny-tales."
Well, I also didn't get it all. I guess somehow my 'negative spirit' makes me something special, heh.
>"But that sounds dangerous. You could-"
>"Simmer down, sally. Anon is still the fellah we all know, nothin' changed, right pardner?"
>"Yeah, I think he became even more awesome with these cool new powers!"
>Rainbow flies around you, provoking you to defend yourself by poking your sides
>"And now that he's the element of disharmony I can easily beat him by being positive as ever!"
>You stumble as Pinkie jumps on your back and ruffles your hair
>You lay on the ground, your friends laughing heartily around you and you join their laugh
Right, thanks for reminding me. Now get off Pinkie or I'll have to use unnecessary force on you!
>Tickling her makes her fall off you and laughing even more
>"Hah, sorry, I didn't mean it that way..."
It's alright, Twi. I still don't know what to think of it myself. But I'll let you in on a secret...
>You whisper so your friends have to come closer
Everything will be just fine as long as we are together.
>Your friends smile widely as they embrace you in a hug, causing an awkward moment
>Yep, your last words sounded kinda gay
>Whatever it takes to boost common morale
So, are you ready? The train will be leaving soon.
>They nod and step off happily
>You can't help yourself but to grin, too
>It's been a while since you've been so ... free. Free of every burden you had
>Well, it's stupid to think that since you're going to face King Sombra, a unicorn with astonishing abilities and outstanding viciousness
>But the words you said ... you meant them
>As long as you have your friends you'll be fine come hell or high water
>Your train of thoughts is being interrupted by a pair of orange hooves pressing against your chest
Huh? AJ? What's the matter?
>The orange p0ny with the golden mane under her light brown stetson looks up to you, her emerald eyes worried and almost forming a question mark
>"Ah'm ... Ah'm worried, Anon. All that hooey 'bout ya bein' some kind of 'balance keeper' and stoppin' Sombra. What if anything happens to ya?"
That would be unfortunate. Seriously, listen to yourself, AJ!
>You snicker as you take her hooves with your hands
Since when did you become such a fraidy foal? Do I see insecurity inside the strong and faithful eyes of yours?
>"O-of course not... it's ... Ah couldn't take if somethin' happened to ya'll."
>She meets your small-aleck glance and blushes
>Seems like she wanted to say something else than 'ya'll', heh
Listen, AJ. This time I'll promise to protect you and the others. I'm going to be fine, believe me. There's nothing I couldn't handle, is there?
>Your self-confident behavior leaves no doubt
>A cute little smile appears on her face, right between her tiny freckles
>"Promise it!"
>You let her go and lay your right hand on your chest while rising your left
I vow that nothing will happen to me or our friends as long as I have the opportunity to prevent any harm. Good enough?
>She giggles
>"Yeah. Now come closer to complete yer promise."
>You squat down to be on the same level as her
>A kiss meets your lips as Applejack pecks your lips
>Leaving you totally confused she makes her way to the train station
>A weak scent of apples trails her
>You shake your head
>-"C'mon, Anon, don't just stand there like an idiot, get your ass to the train!"
>Huh, it's been a while since you last 'talked to yourself'
>Minutes later you arrive at the train station, the train already waiting to depart
>You get in swiftly and take a seat between Rarity and Twilight
>For a split second you wanted to sit next to Pinkie Pie but you had second thoughts about it
>You need some time to internalize the plan and this pink p0ne is sure as hell going to turn this ride into another party
>Good thing you'll at least be able to keep sitting next to Twi, since she's going to read books the whole ride as usual
>The train's whistle sounds loudly as it begins to move towards Ponyville
>Pondering you start to run over and over Princess Celestia's words
>The plan is remarkably easy
>After King Sombra arrives your friends and you will ambush him
>The elements of harmony will aid you since it must be expected that Sombra will have reinforcements
>This raised of course the question why you can't just rely on the guards down in Ponyville
>It was quickly replied by the princess when she said that the guards won't be much of a help since King Sombra's negativity and magical abilities would just take them out within the very first seconds
>On the other hand your friends are resistent to it as the elements of harmony and so are you
>But only to a certain point so you'll have to be cautious
>The aim is to withhold him long enough to restore Fluttershy and to complete the six elements of harmony so you could finally defeat Sombra
>Sounds easy to this point
>The only problem is the 'how'
>You don't  know what awaits you or what to do once you ambushed Sombra
>Hell even the princesses didn't know
>Never was there something as an 'element of disharmony'
>The only thing they told you were about slumbering powers inside you
>Yeah, that's freakin' helpful
>"Anon? Anon!"
Uh?
>"Darling, we have arrived, are you planning on sitting the whole day inside here?"
>Damn it, how did this ride go so fast? Usually you have the feeling it takes an eternity to go to Canterlot and back to Ponyville
Thanks, Rarity.
>Hopping out, you spot your friends waiting for you
>"What now?"
Everyone get home and prepare yourselves! We'll meet her in half an hour and then prepare the ambush by the edge of the road leading from Hollow Shades to Ponyville. If we're lucky he'll be stupid enough to take the 'front door'. Got it?
>A common 'Yes!' goes through the round as the p0nies gallop off in various directions
>You beeline your way back home because you have forged a plan yourself
>Relying on some 'slumbering powers' just won't cut it
>You won't take the risk of putting your friends into harm's way
>Breaking the door to your home almost in you run upstairs to your bedroom and grab what you need
>Your cape which is protecting you against any kind of magic and some tape
>He's going to be surprised, heh
>You gulf down some fruit and a bit of water and run back just to make it in time
*Pant* how did you get her *pant* so fast?
>"We ... didn't know what to do at home, so we went back."
>Makes sense. Wait
Did you get the elements?
>The same moment you said it you recognize a bag on Twilight's back
>"Of course!"
Alright, here is the plan. Rarity, Rainbow and I will take the left side of the road, Twilight, Pinkie and AJ you'll take the other side. You'll have to listen to my commands if you want to get through this smoothly! If everything goes out as planned we won't even need to fight.
>Your position as leader of the guards shows itself
>You take a look around
>They are more than ready, judging by the serious look on their faces
>Without another exchange of words they take their assigned places
>You hide behind some bushes, RD in front of you and Rarity covering you back
>Trying to get to Rainbow without making unnecessary noises you put half your weight on her back and crawl forward slowly
>Surprisingly enough she blushes and her wings shoot out a little
>"Anon, that's not the moment for-"
Hush. Listen, I'll need your help. As soon as Sombra goes through here I'll need you to grab my hand and pull me up. Can you drop me on top of him?
>Her confusion doesn't last long
>"Of course! You're talking to the best flyer in Ponyville, this will be a breeze! Get it? Because we will be flying."
>Ugh, stupid pun
>Sliding back to your place you get ready and ... wait

>You wait half an hour. And another. And a third
>It's getting dark already
Where the hell is he?
>"Maybe Princess Celestia was mistaken?"
No! I know he's there somewhere. I just wonder why he isn't showing up though...
>Twilight, Applejack and Pinkie seem to get twitchy as well because nobody is showing up
>"Maybe we should call it a day?"
I said no! We have a duty to fulfill, pull yourself together.
>"Who are you waiting for?"
Are you serious? I told you-
>Wait. That was a much deeper voice. A male voice
What the-
>You turn around and see a charcoal unicorn clouded in shadows keeping Rarity's mouth shut and grinning at you
>"Good even-"
>You grab his horn intuitively with one hand and lay your free arm around Rarity's waist
>With a quick and strong motion you separate the two and push him to the middle of the road with a kick to his chest
>Luckily you got him by surprise and he stumbles a few steps giving you enough time to rethink your next steps
>Your brain works on pure adrenaline right now
Our ambush failed! Regroup!
>The other mares gallop out of the bushes and you pull Rarity to the middle of the road, a few meter distance between your friends and Sombra
Rarity, are you okay?
>Even though her fur has the brightest white you've ever seen you bet she is paler than ever
>"This brute ... he-he laid his dirty, his DIRTY hooves on me... I will DESTROY him!"
Woah, get yourself together.
>"I am the brute? Is that how you welcome the new ruler of Equestria?"
>Damn, you still got another problem to solve
>You nod at RD and she gets it instantly, grabbing your extended hand and pulling you up forcefully
>She is a pretty strong flyer, you will give her that one
>"Pinkie! You'll have to distract him! Rarity can you throw stones at him with your magic? Twilight, Applejack, I want you to support them!"
>A ball of pink fur starts to bounce everywhere like crazy while Applejack runs around King Sombra
>At  the same time Twilight lifts a few stones with her magic and throws them straight at him
>Rarity instead uses her gem-finding-spell and moments later razor sharp gems shoot through the air
Careful, you might hurt someone!
>"Mind your own business!"
>Wow, she really is mad at him. At least her aim is good enough so you don't have to trouble yourself about that
>During this storm of constant interrupt King Sombra is forced to step back, confused by the sheer amount of attacks from all sides
Okay RD, drop me.
>"You got it!"
>Rainbow pulls you over Sombra and lets go of your hand
>Bullseye! You land exactly on his back, holding his horn in your hands
>"What are you doing? Let go of me!"
>Something is telling you that it would be a very bad idea to let go of his horn
>Instead you pull your cape from your shoulder and wrap it tightly around his horn, fixing it with a lot of tape
>After completing your task with success you jump off his back and run back to your friends
It's done! Enough, we'll just have to wait for the princess now.
>The others assemble around you with questioning looks
>"That's it? I thought he wouldn't be such a pushover, hmpf."
>Rainbow Dash must act big of course
>But apparently she's right
>You watch King Sombra as he writhes in something that seems like agony, trying to reach his horn
>"No, what have you done? Where is my strength, my magic is gone! Why are you so cruel?"
Serves you right...
>His attempts to resist slowly come to a stop as he falls to the ground
>"Is he ... you know."
I don't think so.
>Something reeks
>As you try to approach him he stands up quickly
>"Why? Why~?! Why are you so PATHETIC?!"
>His horn glows through your cape and bursts it into smithereens as he laughs loudly
>"Nice try, but did you really think this would actually stop me? It will be an honor for me to wipe you all from existence!"
>FUCK
>You didn't envisage that he'd be able to resist your usually reliable cape
>Watching the pieces of the magic material blown away by the wind you realize the true extent of his powers
>Think fast! The others are standing around you as if they are waiting for him to take on them
>They need your lead right now!
C'mon AJ!
>You mount her with a quick jump and grab tight to her mane
>She squeals in surprise but there are more important things at stake than her hairstyle
>"Anon, whatcha doin'?"
Bring me closer to him, we can't let him get away.
>She gains hold of herself
>"Yeehaw! Let's go!"
>With this she sets off with an incredible speed
>While closing in you pull your hammer out of the attachment on your belt beyond your coat
>King Sombra eyes you seemingly unimpressed
>Idiot, he's risking a critical blow
>A few meters before you're close enough to hit him his visage turns into a vicious grin
>It's a ... trap?
AJ, stop immediately!!!
>"What?"
>Before any of you can react his horn flashes in a range from dark violet to sinister black
>Next thing you know is landing hard on your back, Applejack's body sliding past you
Ugh, shit...
>"Oh you, what a cute attempt!"
>He bursts out laughing
>"Six against one doesn't seem fair, huh? Since you're representing the elements of harmony I should even the odds, don't you think?"
>Again his horn glows and an army of dark figures appears around him
>These are at least thirty of those 'things'
>"How's that fair?"
>"I'm the villain here, remember? Never said I would play nice and clean. Attack!"
>About thirty shadows start to dash at your group
>You'll have to come up with another plan
Twilight, Rarity, you will back us up! Continue shooting stones and gems at them! Pinkie, AJ, you'll help me to defend me! We have to make sure that not even one of these abominations makes it through to them! RD you'll be our air support! What are y'all waiting for, move your p0ny arses!
>Your friends take up their spots and you have a few seconds left before the wave of creatures clashes
AJ, are you alright?
>"Ah'm fine, it's just a scratch. Watch out, there they come!"
>You let your hammer dextrously swing around
>The first thing approaching you jumps directly for you
>A quick slash from right to left solves the problem
>After that another three follow
>The amount of his underlings is unbelievable
>You connect the first strike with another to the opposite direction and lunge out for a third one from above
>Your aim has pretty much increased over time. Every strike is a hit
>It's a shame that there are so much still left
>A moment of distraction and another thing sinks his teeth into you right arm
>You use your left hand to punch it in the face and with a jerk you pull your arm out of its mouth
>Fuck, your hammer won't come in handy for closer combat
>With your left hand you pull out your knife and slam it right into it's skull
>It turns into black fog, like the others you defeated
>During your struggle the other things came closer than you prefer
>Since there's no use for your hammer you let it glide back into its holster and the blade switches from your left to your right hand
>You grab the head of another creature which tried to jump at you as well and slam it on the ground
>Quickly you spin around yourself and ram your knife into another thing's head
>Now that you've tasted the first blood of combat you continue your rampage
>The creatures around you have been obliterated so you run at your next target which is awaiting you with sharp and pointy fangs
>Again you grab its head but instead of smashing it you perform a flip over its head and mount it
>The creature cries out in fury and start to run around aimlessly
>Perfect for you to take out the others
>While riding this abomination you're able to stab another one by leaning to your right side
>Realizing that your knife's range is too small you put it away and get your hammer out once more
>Lunging out wildly and striking with incredible force you are able to decapitate one of Sombra's underlings
>Its body vanishes in two clouds of shadows
>Time to deal with that freak beneath you
>You grab its head and pull it brutally back to stop it from running
>Afterwards you jump again over its head and smash the hammer into its skull from above
>Wow, since when did you become so acrobatic?
>-"You're welcome."
>Are you talking with yourself again?
>This voice seems so familiar but...
>-"We merged into each other, remember?"
-That's just awesome...
>That would explain why you stopped talking to yourself but started it again recently...
>-"Part of my abilities descended to you. You know, the ones I trained hard for while you were sitting on your lazy ass? You're one lucky bastard."
-Oh, shut it. One person inside my head was more than enough. Now I'm SURE that I went crazy...
>-"That's not half bad..."
>During your monolog you took a look around
>The others are giving it everything
>A constant bombardment on the part of Rarity and Twilight keeps many of the other underlings covered
>AJ and you are fighting at the front, keeping them away from Twi and Rarity
>Rainbow nosedives every now and then taking quite a bunch out every time
>And Pinkie, uuh well...
>Somehow that crazy mare got a big show with balloons and fireworks going and a big part of the underlings are watching her, fascinated by the show
>You shrug
>As long as it works you don't really care
>But what you do care for is why their numbers isn't decreasing?
>Another underling tempts to buck you in your face but since you cleared some space for yourself it's quite easy to hit it in its side with the pointy side of your hammer
>That's why they don't decrease...
>You spot King Sombra who's constantly summoning more and more of his creatures
>Damn this fucker, there's no way to stop him like that
>It's just a matter of time until you succumb to exhaustion
>Beads of sweat are running down Applejack’s coat and the others, even Pinkie Pie, started to pant from fatigue as well
>You have to do something!
>While you rack your brain for a solution one of King Sombra's underlings was able to sneak up behind you
>A rough push from behind sends you face first to the ground
>Other creatures follow the first one and you find yourself below a pile of them
>It's getting harder to breathe
>"Twilight! Anon is in trouble!"
>A lady in shining coat draws Twilight's attention to you
>Moments later a bright barrier surrounds you and expands abruptly, blowing your tormentors off you
Thanks, Twi! AJ!
>Applejack struggles to deal with a bunch of these things herself
>One got her arms pinned down while the others are coming closer like predators for their prey
Fucking-!
>You pull your knife and with a fluent motion you send it flying towards the one holding Applejack down
>Its head gets impaled by striaght hit and the knife falls to the ground with a plinking sound
>Fortunately AJ didn't catch what you did, or you'd have to justify yourself later for the immense amount of violence you use
>"I owe ya!"
>She jumps back on her hooves and starts to take the others out one by one
>It's a bit too late though...
>A bunch of the underlings broke through your line and try to assault Rarity and Twilight
>Their range has decreased so much that it became hard for them to hit properly
>The only p0ny who is able to help them is
Pinkie! Do something!
>She nods at you and interrupts her show for a few seconds to pull a lever next to her
>A big trapdoor opens and almost all of the underlings that were running towards Twilight and Rarity fall into it
>The door closes again without leaving a sign of ever existing
What the hell...
>You're not going to investigate it further. It's simply Pinkie Pie
>The situation eased up a little so you have to take the next step
Dash!
>You reach your hand out towards the sky
>A blue hoof grabs it and you disappear in a stream of prismatic colors
Fly as low as possible! Can you toss me at King Sombra?
>"Gotcha!"
>On your way to Sombra you create a swath of destruction with your hammer
>Her immense speed makes it almost needless to swing it
>There he is, focused on summoning more abominations
>You let Rainbow's hoof go and fly towards him
>Your tense your back, lunging out for the final strike
>This will quite have the punch!
>His eyes shift all of a sudden to your direction and his horn flashes like before
>Your hammer leaves your hand and you slide away from him, lying flat on your back
>"Did you really think, I'd leave myself unprotected, you disgraceful monkey?"
>Probably some kind of detection spell, or who knows what else
>What really bothers you is the way he looked at you
>His glance turned into a dagger, piercing through your soul...
>You gasp for air as you turn around and try to crawl to your hammer
>It had quite the punch. His spell, not your failed attempt
>You're stopped by a big hoof crashing painfully down on your back
>"Seems like my job is done."
>What does he-?
>Looking around you see Rarity and Twilight circled by these things
>Rainbow Dash is being held down by them and even Pinkie got captured by the crowd which she distracted minutes ago
>And Applejack ... AJ is lying motionless on the ground surrounded by the creatures
Shit. SHIT, I'LL GET YOU!
>You try to turn around but the pressure of his weight and your drained body keep you face down
>If you only could reach his head you'd break his neck in a split of a second
>"Let this be the beginning. The beginning of your end and the endless nightmares i cast upon you."
>You feel a hard and spiky object touching the back of your head
>The weight is being taken off your back and you are able to push up
>Sombra is gone
>But your friends still need you
Show yourself, coward!
>Time seems to be frozen around you
>Your friends as your enemies don't even twitch a single muscle
>A voice appears out of nowhere
>"I'll have you know something. You see, normally I can bend the will of any fool I meet. The elements of harmony are something else. Usually I enjoy to watch living beings suffer inside their darkest nightmares. But the elements of harmony are something else. I need to break them completely before I can bend them to my will."
>What the hell is he babbling? Your eyes scan the area, but there's no sign of him
>"You on the other hoof are nothing else but one of them fools. I can't quite get through to you but you shall amuse me by your suffering. You will be engulfed by the deepest abyss of your heart. I hope you'll enjoy it."
>Time starts flowing again
Rainbow, Applejack!
>The shadow creatures pounce on them and they disappear within a dark cloud including these things
No!
>You start to dash
>Your heart pounds dolorously against your throat
Twilight, Rarity, you have to stop them! Hold on, I'll be there in a second!
>They do the same as they did to Rainbow
Pinkie! Come on, defend yourself! Please!
>But it's too late
>You reach the fog of darkness and try to grab whatever lingers inside
>Your fingers go through nothing
>The cloud disappears and you are left alone in the middle of a lonely road
>Even the moon shining upon you can't cover your uselessness
Reveal yourself! Give. Me. My. FRIENDS.
>Rage blinds everything else out
>If he wants to pick a fight ,one on one, you say he got it!
>"Your friends? Indeed, I shall return them to you."
>Where is he?!
>You turn around and spot very well known figures
Y-you are okay? But how?
>Starting to run back a wicked realization runs through your mind
>You reduce your speed and take a closer look
Are you really fine?
>"Oh, we never felt better."
>The answer comes out of every mouth, distorting their voices into a dissonant mix
W-what do you mean?
>Their fur has turned gray with a shade of their former color and their eyes turned into circles of green
>"He took us under his wing and showed us the truth."
What are you talking about? You were here just seconds ago!
>"Yes, but were have you been?"
>Your 'friends' start to walk towards you and it's not looking good
>You retreat carefully
>"We needed you. And you let us down. Not the first time, Anon."
I-I-I wasn't fast enough!
>"Oh, that's okay. If it weren't for you we would have never met this fascinating unicorn."
Wha- Stop the nonsense! He's going to destroy Equestria!
>"No, he won't. He only wants to rule it. But the likes of you will get extinguished, that is true. Unless you want to join us?"
>Join the one who messed up every single one of your friends and who's going to push Equestria into an era of sorrow and evil?
Have you lost it?! I'll never join him! Come back to your goddamn senses and cut it out!
>Another step backwards and you bump into a hard object
>Inhaling sharply you quickly turn just to see an endless wall stopping you from getting away
What the-?
>"Ya keep disappointin' me. But that's old news, don't ya think?"
>While the others closed a ring around you Applejack went to a tall and strong-looking unicorn
There you are! You fuck-
>"Stop it right there, or you'll get hurt."
>Dark Twilight blocked your way as you wanted to reach King Sombra and her glowing horn is pointing perilously at your face
>"Step back."
>You obey her and watch the scene unfold, unable to do anything
>"Ya risked everyp0nies life, y'know? And ya broke yer promise, ya lied ta me. Again. What's yer excuse?"
I...
>Overwhelmed by her accusations you're barely able to open your mouth
>"That's right! Ya have none! How could ya let yer friends get hurt? Can ya do anything right? Ya are just a burden fer Ponyville! And a disgrace fer every guardsp0ny out there! Leader, hah! Ah prefer..."
>Her eyes turn to King Sombra and close slightly as if she's enjoying a hot bath
>"...fellas who can be true as their words."
>With this she leans in for a kiss and Sombra answers it with the same passion
No... Applejack...
>Bitter tears of agony and sadness run down your face
>She is ... they are right. You're are good for nothing. You're not even able to keep your word
>Everything happens because of you
>Just fucking everything
>What a fucking mess
>Their kissing intensifies and you can clearly hear her moaning
>You just stand there, frozen onto your place as tears keeps dropping on the ground
>It hurts ... it fucking hurts ... WHY DOES IT HURT SO MUCH?
>Right now you'd prefer to get your beating heart ripped out of your chest just to stop the feelings inside you
>Oh, but that's only the beginning...
>Unfortunately you are not only forced to watch this but your 'friends' have to rub salt into the gaping wounds that cover your inside
>"You are weak!"
>"Just look a you!"
>"You couldn't even achieve a hing if your life depends on it!"
>"Where have you been?"
>"Why didn't you rescue us?"
>"You are nothing."
>Yes, you are nothing
>Closing your eyes you try to let your sink into the void
>Anything to make it stop
>The darkness around you feels like it's taking substance
>You're being embraced by the shadows inside your own mind
>-"Hey!"
>Who... who is calling you?
>-"Wake up! You won't give up now, will you?"
>But why should you resist? There's nothing left to do to turn the tables anymore...
>-"Get a hold of yourself, man! Does it have to be me of all people who's going to save that sorry ass of yours?"
>It's him
-What do you want?
>-"I went through your memories. Are you really going to fall for the same shit twice? Chrysalis did the same, didn't she?"
-I don't remember it. Leave me be.
>-"Yeah, I'll leave you and meanwhile our friends as our home go into the crapper, right?"
-What am I able to do? How could I possibly change anything? I'm no use to no one...
>-"Listen to the 'element of disharmony', heh. And here I thought you'd be better than that. Isn't that fucker stealing your mare?"
-So what? I couldn't protect one of my friends anyway.
>-"About that. Like he'd let them unharmed. You know, because he's great with the elements of harmony, probably the only thing to stop him since YOU are acting like a little bitch?"
-He won't touch him since they joined forces...
>-"Are you out of your fucking mind? Why should he tell you the truth? He already got him where he wants them! Basically we are the last bastion!"
-Are you sure?
>-"Do you let him treat you like that?"
>Well, no...
>-"What about everyone else? They are relying on you!"
>Re...relying?
>-"Don't you care for your friends?!"
-My ... friends...
>-"Yup, your-"
-This motherfucker won't let a single of his filthy hooves on them!
>-"That's it! Let your wrath be the key to get out of this prison!"
>Your mind draws on your last resorts
>If he's going to wreck everything you won't go down quiet, for fuck's sake!
>-"Lucky enough he doesn't know that I'm with you, heh."
-I'LL RIP HIM INTO PIECES!
>The upwelling fieriness inside you eases the omnipresent grip around you as a long cry of a beast leaves your lungs
>-"Let's finish this!"
>A light appears in front of you
>You reach for it and feel the light go inside you
>An unknown power streams through your system
>Brightness blinds you for a few moments as you try to open your eyes
>The scene is unchanged, the wall is gone and your friends are still where you have seen them the last time
>Even though the underlings are gone they don't move
>Instead their bodies shake as you hear them crying
>The crying of your friends
>It fuels the fire inside you and takes you to the edge of exploding
WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU ARE DOING?!
>Sombra, who was currently concentrating on keeping the spell intact looks up as his eyes widen
>Without breaking the spell he stands up and observes you critically
>"No one has ever broken the spell by oneself before?! How did you-?"
SHUT UP!
>Spurting to him, you raise your right fist and send it right into his face
>He lands on his back and you kneel upon him
>"So, what are you going to do now, heh?"
>His horn still keeps glowing which is probably the main reason he hasn't repelled you as before
>"We both know what happens now. Come on, save your friends. You will have to kill me or I will kill you. Just do it, let revenge flow through your body. Retaliate for everything I made you go through!"
>You fists shake in anticipation and you feel more than ready to beat him into a bloody pulp
>But it doesn't feel right...
>Haven't you learned anything? You thought you would have these emotion contained...
>Your fists lower and you shake your head
No, not this time...
>"You fool!"
>His head jerks up as he tries to impale you with his horn
>Without even knowing what you're actually doing you grab his horn with your both hands
>The dark matter around it flows into you and you close your eyes, trying to focus
>A cold feeling pushes deeper and deeper into you leaving a trail of despite and hate
>You try to stop it but it keeps invading every cell in your body
>Sadness and grief fills your head, pushing everything else aside
>You get completely swallowed by his wickedness
>For a moment you're about to succumb to him
>But eventually...
>-"You are the keeper of the balance. C'mon!!!"
>Your grip
 around his horn tightens and you push every particle of his existence back into him
>His spells, his feelings, his true nature, nothing of this can hurt you
>Because you already lived through everything
>As the last bit of him is being forced back he starts to scream
>A scream filled with anguish
>For a moment you can see him in front of your inner eye, facing you
>"How are you able to do that?"
I am the element of disharmony. My duty is to restore balance between evil and good. I am between the lanes.
>"I see..."
>You let go of his horn and open your eyes
>The whole procedure got you out of breath and you sit next to him for a moment gasping
>King Sombra is still lying on the ground, but he's writhing in pain
>Looks like his spell backfired on him
>As for your friends, their crying stopped
>You can spot them one by one waking up from their devilish nightmares
Are you okay?
>They still look pretty shaky but eventually one after another nods
>It sure wasn't nice being captured within your own fears...
>Looking back again to Sombra you notice his resistance decreasing to the point where he finally lies immobile on the ground
>Only his chest moves up and down from his slow breathing
>Something hits you from behind causing you almost to fall
What-?
>"Anon, don't ya ever do that ta me again!"
>A pair of orange hooves appeared on your waist
>Uuh, sure, but would you mind telling me first what I've done? Again?
>Actually you planned on saying this
>But seeing her tear-dimmed eyes make you realize what she's been through
>And you are not one of those tactless ruffian you hug her firmly and bury your face deep into her silky, blonde mane
It's alright...
>Her little body shaking in your arms from sobbing almost breaks your heart because of the pity you feel
It's over, don't cry, sweety.
>You have broken the spell and King Sombra is imprisoned in his own tainted magic
>The others don't look much better than Applejack, hell, you bet you are no sight to see yourself
>Still, you have to keep strong. For Equestria. For them.
>Twilight is the first one to get to speak again
>"Is-is he...?"
No. It wouldn't be right. He's currently getting a dose of his own 'medicine'.
>"But will he stay this way? Forever?"
I highly doubt that. A creature of this deviousness will ultimately find a way out of this trap. It may take a while but I'd be more than happy if the princess would get here and finish this.
>"I never EVER want to see him or his underlings again! These terrible, simply terrifying things he showed me!"
>Rarity started to complain and blushes a little as she feels all eyes on her
>"What? I'm talking about my mane. You wouldn't want to know what he did to it!"
>She raises her nose up to the air but no one is in the mood to answer to this
>You are quite sure she's lying ... but who could blame her for that?
>All of you went through a lot of shit
>"I never would have thought to experience this spell ever again. This is truly dark sorcery..."
>You raise one brow and look at Twilight
Say that again.
>"Well, he once used this spell on me and Spike when we were at the Crystal Empire. but this time it was about ten times worse. Seems like a direct contact amplifies the spell's strength, instead laying it out like a trap."
Oh yeah, did you figure that one yourself?
>Twilight looks at you with confusion written all over her face
>"Anon, there is something pulsating on your forehead. This doesn't look very healthy."
WOULD YOU MIND TO TELL US THIS KIND OF INFORMATION BEFOREHAND NEXT TIME?!
>She still looks puzzled but then bursts out in laughter
>As the others join her laughter you couldn't resist and start to laugh heartily as well
>After all this tension it feels good to have a moment of joy
>Even though it doesn't last very long
>"We still have to deal with 'him'"
>Rainbow points a hoof at the lying body of King Sombra
>"Let me get Spike, I'll write a letter to the princess!"
>As on cue a little, purple dragon comes out of nowhere, seemingly out of breath, holding a piece of paper with the royal seal in his claws
>"Twi...Twilight *pant* I-me-the princess and *pant*."
Woah, take a deep breath buddy. So, the princess...?
>Before he had time to breath your friends bow down
What? Oh.
>You bow down immediately, too
>"I see you have been successful?"
>The princess appeared in a bright flash and is standing right in front of your group
>"Twilight, the princess will be here any second!"
Hush now.
>As he sees the princess his cheeks turn read and he keeps his mouth shut
>"Yes, Princess Celestia. Anon made sure that King Sombra won't be a threat to Equestria anymore."
>"You did very well my students. I'm really sorry I put you into this kind of danger but I wouldn't have if there had been another way. Did you bring the elements of harmony with you, Twilight Sparkle?"
>Yes, your highness, here they are!"
>Within the presence of Princess Celestia Twilight switched back to her eager egghead-behavior, being adorkable as ever
>"Excellent. I brought someone special as well."
>A yellow something with a pink mane slowly starts to leave the safety of Celestia back shyly
>"H-Hey girls."
>"Fluttershy!
>"It's Fluttershy!"
>In an instant the others dart off to meet with their friend
>A smile sneaks into your face
Thank goodness.
>Being totally overwhelmed by the sudden streak of affection her face turns into a similar color as her mane
>"H-hey, I missed y-you, too. W-what's the r-r-reason for all this?"
>As your friends bother to explain to Fluttershy that they've been worried because of her being under special treatment you approach the princess
>"Oh-oh my. I hope I didn't cause too much trouble. I'm sorry."
>You hear them telling her that she doesn't have to be sorry for every little thing
>Heh, that's Fluttershy all over
Your majesty?
>"Yes, Anon?"
Could you tell me what you've exactly done with Fluttershy?
>"That is an interesting question you have. Are you worried?"
No! Well, kinda...
>"We restored her memories and rearranged them, as I told you before."
But will she be the same again?
>Celestia ponders a little while before saying her next words
>"We had to separate a few memories to link the others back together. She might have forgotten a few things. All these things are about and with you."
>Quite shocked by these portentous words you look at Flutters being awkward while crowded by her dearest friends
She has forgotten who I am?
>For a second Princess Celestia's face is covered by surprise, but a caring smile crosses her lips
>"No, I said she has forgotten a 'few' things. These things are all memories of you, though I never said that she had forgotten everything. She isn't able to remember 'certain' things."
What do you mean by cer- nevermind.
>You avoid eye contact and look down to the ground ashamedly
>There is a line which shouldn't be crossed when it comes to privacy
>While looking to the ground you haven't noticed a certain yellow somep0ny coming closer
>"A-Anon, what's the m-matter?"
>Her words jolt you out of your thoughts
Huh? It's nothing, really. Sooo...
>You kick a stone out of your way, while running your fingers through your hair, not knowing what to say next
I-I'm glad you are fine, Flutters.
>"Yeah, me too..."
>Someone pushes you from behind and you have to hold onto Fluttershy so you don't fall down
>A sardonic laughter behind you indicates Rainbow Dash as the perpetrator
>Damn, you'll get that fast, blue p0ny for that...
>Holding Fluttershy in your arms there's no way to retreat without acting weird so you do the next thin that comes to your mind
>You give her a big hug and hear her squealing in surprise
>"*Eep*!"
I'm really glad that you are here.
>Tenderly she returns the hug
>"Thank you, Anon."
>You hope RD is happy now, damn pegasus
>Breaking the hug you take a look around and see that all eyes are fixated on the princess
>Since nobody seems to take the word you have to stick with the job
So, what are we going to do now?
>"Listen closely. We can't let King Sombra dwell within his own dreams, even though it seems like the best for now. The elements of harmony must use their combined powers to stop him from ever doing such a thing again."
But how?
>"The elements cannot take away the evil nature of his. But they can block his magic abilities to never let him abuse it again."
That means ... you want to turn him into an earth p0ny?
>You try to imagine how it would be if you had the ability to perform magic and this ability gets taken away from you
That's cruel...
>"We won't 'steal' what is his, Anon. He will be send to a long journey to find himself. And eventually he will be able to use his powers again. But this time for good."
>You are not that stupid. It's crystal clear that the elements don't posses such powers or they'd already dealt with all threats in Equestria that way
>You lean to the princess' ear and whisper so only she could understand you words
The elements are only able to block the magical flow within his body temporarily, right? And even if this wasn't the case he could discover some sort of mystical artifact on his journey that could help him to get his old strength back.
>Her eyes open wide in surprise
>"Twilight Sparkle's close proximity to you is doing you very good I see. Yes, that is correct."
Then why take the risk?
>"Would you want me to petrify him, like Discord? Or should we send him to the moon for a thousand years? You see, in the course of time I have become wiser and I recognize the mistakes I did."
>Her eyes meet yours and you can feel the compassion emitting from her
>"Everyone deserves a chance, Anon. This may be a lesson you learned today when you defeated him without ending his life."
>Everyone deserves a chance? She's probably right...
>"Please, take your elements now."
>Your friends go into their formation with Twilight in the middle while wearing their necklaces
>A colorful rainbow emerges from them and flies at Sombra in a high curve
>During this you stand beside Princess Celestia, thinking about her last words
Everyone deserves a chance...
>"Indeed."
You are right, your majesty.
>The bright shine makes it impossible to spot Sombra
>But now you are sure they're doing the right thing
>And if something goes wrong you will still be there to keep the balance intact
The world is on a diagonal... I am the balancing point.*
>The light of the sun shines brightly through the curtains of the darkness, ending the horrible nightmares and calling a new day

END of CHAPTER 12

*-Vaas Montenegro


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