Lost in the Woods Chapter 2: Finding your Way (7/13)

>You scramble to your feet, naked once more.
>”Who are you? What’s going on?” You shout, panic over taking you.
>A nearly indistinguishable glowing form floats out of the tree line, “Welcome back.... Anon is it? That is what you’re calling yourself now correct?” The light form says, “You’ve been lost for quite some time.
>You relax and try to look cool. Which is impossible sees as you’re naked and covered in blood.
>Instead, you decide to just collapse on the ground again. As you check yourself over, you finally realize all your broken bones are mended. Your ribs feel a little odd from not being set right before... Whatever.
>”What’s wrong with me?” you groan as you catch your bloodied reflection once again as your body grows tired, “And what the fuck are you?”
>”I’m the spirit of your ancestors.” It says as it floats closer. “Only you can see me because we are connected.”
>”Connected? Ancestor? Spirit.... What?” You stammer as your eyelids feel heavier and heavier.
>It floats directly in front of you and takes a soft caring tone, “You are Garou... Gaia’s protectors. You have the strength and power to fight any threat, you just have to learn how and why.”
>Your still shaky hands dip into the stream water and you splash it onto your face. “Garou? You mean that monster I became? So my power is blind murder?”
>”No!” It snaps, grabbing your attention back, “We are protectors, it is controlled... First changes are usually a traumatic affair. Especially for Homid born, such as yourself.”
>”You keep saying words that don’t make any sense...” You sigh.
>It agrees, “Yes, you have so much to relearn. First thing first though, you must cover your tracks.”

>You look up to it, shaking your head, “But I...”
>It cuts you off again, “You are Shadow Lord, our tribe is quite capable of manipulation.”
>You then realize it’s right, how many lies and tales have you spun to get what you wanted?
>”You’ve already concocted this story about a monster,” It says, “The bodies will be claimed as another victim, however there is the matter of your involvement.”
>He means your vicious slaughter....
>”I need you to focus. You need to focus your inner beast. Become that monster once more.” It says with a sorrowful feeling of empathy.
>You shake your head. “I can’t... I’ll just...”
>”No child,” It murmurs softly, “If you focus it, it can be controlled. Only if you lack the willpower can it overtake you such as in a moment of rage.”
>You sigh and close your eyes.
>You feel all the anger you store, all the rage and you let it trickle out.
>It’s not the process that’s so terrible, it’s the feeling and the sounds.
>Bones cracking as they grow and expand.
>Muscles inflating.
>Teeth and snout extending, reverberating through your skull.
>As you breathe deeply, the world has a different smell.
>You have changed once more.
>The spirit gazes up to you, “Good child. This is your Crinos form, your warform.”
>You look again to your massive claws still covered in blood. “A form for war... How horrifying,” You lament in a bestial nonhuman language.
>”Indeed, but it is needed to fight the many enemies of Gaia... But that is for a later time. Now you must wound yourself.” It states matter of factly.

>Your head snaps to this ancestor spirit. “But, won’t I just heal like before? My arm, ribs, jaw....”
>The spirit floats up to your eye level. “No, your claws do damage that can only be healed with either time or magic.” It floats down again and begins to fade. “Rake your chest and return to your home. Make whatever story you wish.”
>You stare at your razor sharp claws. “...I’m... I’m so lost.”
>Before the spirit disappears, it says softly “I know child, there is much to learn. I will return and help you find your way.”
>Once again, you’re all alone.
>So tired.
>After gathering up as much courage as you can, you press your claws into your chest.
>Your skin splits as they rake down.
>Your own blood now falling to the ground.
>What did it say to turn into this? ‘Focus your inner beast’...
>Just do the opposite.
>One massive pawed foot in front of the other, you slowly walk back to that cottage you call home.
>Focus your inner human.... Be that man you know you’ll always be.
>Your form shrinks as you see the small path leading home.
>Bones again snapping into place.
>So tired....
>....So little blood
>You collapse with Fluttershy’s door within eyeshot.
>Fluttershy, the poor naive p0ny that trusts you the most.
>How would she look at you if she knew the truth?
>That’s your last thought as the world fades out around you.
>It’s a new world now for you.
>For everyone.
>It’s a world of darkness.

>Your eyes slowly open.
>Hey, you remember that ceiling.
>You remember the sight and smell of this place.
>What’s over there? OH! It’s Fluttershy.
>She looks ever so worried.... Wonder why?
>Oh hey, you're laying on a bed wrapped in bandages.... Oh... Oh right.
>”Fluttershy, I...” You start to say.
>Can’t finish it though because she has you wrapped in a gentle hug, “YOU’RE AWAKE! I was so worried... Angel found you outside and you were hurt.... I did my best and sent him to get Twilight.”
>You manage to bring your arms up to her and hug her back. Chest still really fucking hurts though.
>”I’m fine Fluttershy, really.... But,” You have to pull her off of you, hurts too much, “Something happened out there last night.”
>She nods, “It was... It was that monster wasn’t it? It did this to you...”
>You sigh, “Not just me... There were some guys that followed me... They weren’t as lucky as I was.”
>Fluttershy looks as if she might cry.
>You take her hoof in your hand, “Hey, I’m fine ok? It was their fault. They wanted a fight with me and that thing just came out of nowhere. I was distracted, I should have seen it coming.”
>What hurts more? Your chest? Or lying to her?
>She sniffles and rests her head on your shoulder, “I just get so worried when you go out... I... I like you... I don’t want anything bad to happen.”
>You pet her mane as you hear the door down stairs open.
>”Fluttershy?” The distinct voice of Twilight Sparkle calls out. “Your rabbit drug me all the way over here, is anything wrong?”

>Twilight’s led upstairs and into your room.
>She gives a gasp when she sees the bandages across your body. ”Oh Celestia, what happened?”
>You tell her what you told Fluttershy.
>As you do, her horn glows and she peels back the wrappings.
>Your still open wounds touch air making you wince.
>After some hemming and hawing, she gets to work. Hell, now your almost thankful she took the time for her science while you were out.
>You gasp at the odd sensation of your flesh stitching itself back together.
>Before you know it, all you’re left with is a few lengths of scars.
>After shooting a smile at Fluttershy, she throws herself into your chest, “Oh thank you Twilight!” She cries as she holds you tightly.
>Twi’s about ready to retort when the sound of the front door being kicked in makes you all jump.
>”Ah know he’s here somewhere, everyp0ny spread out an’ look for him!” The hateful drawl of Applejack rings through the house.
>You look to Fluttershy and her face twists in anger before she darts out of the room.
>Well shit!
>You quickly snatch up your pants and head out, leaving Twilight sitting in your room, confused.
>”How DARE you!” Fluttershy screams at the assembled p0nies as they frighten her animals. “What gives you the RIGHT to think you can just....”
>”This is fer yer own good!” Applejack shouts right back, “There was a killin’ and yer new pet is the main suspect.”
>Lynch mob rules.

>Fluttershy puffs out her chest, “Anon? He’s NOT my pet and he’s NOT a murderer!”
>Applejack scoffs, “Why? ‘cause he told ya so?”
>You make your way down the steps as you toss a shirt on.
>”YES!” Fluttershy shouts, getting nose to nose with her friend, “Besides, what makes you think it was him?”
>AJ narrows her eyes, “Caramel and his friends said they was fixin’ ta show him he wasn’t welcome here.”
>So, that was one of them eh? Time to get involved, “Oh?” You call out and all eyes turn to you, “And I bet you had NOTHING to do with that decision Miss Grand Wizard?”
>The insult flies right over her hat, “Ah tried talkin’ ‘em outta it,” She declares, “It’s jus’ not how we do things here. An’ that’s not tha point.” She drops her head and shakes it, “They was found this mornin’, all tore’d up.”
>You nod, “Yeah, I know... I was there.”
>The assembled crowd gasps in shock and accusations start flying.
>You quiet them with a booming shout, “YES! I was there! They wanted to beat me senseless... Probably would have if that monster I’ve been talking about hadn’t shown up.” You slowly spin around the room, looking at the crowd assembled, “Got a good look at it this time!”
>You pull a chair up and stand on it, head almost bumping the ceiling, “About this tall! All muscle! Claws like knives! Teeth as big as my fingers!”
>Everyp0ny’s jaw drops and their eyes wide.
>You continue to spin your tale, “A natural... No SUPER natural predator.” Your head drops and you feign sadness, “I was lucky, only splayed me open, must have gotten full off of them...”
>They all buy it, except one.

>“Ok, then where’s yer injuries? Ya said it hurt ya... Where‘re they?” Applejack accuses, reigniting the crowd.
>”I healed them!” Twilight says, finally joining the group. “I saw them myself, so did Fluttershy. He DID get hurt, couldn’t have been Anon.”
>That spirit sure knew what he was talking about.
>You nod a thanks to Twilight and the crowd finally wavers.
>Applejacks little hate army starts filtering out.
>She starts grasping at straws so to speak, “But... Why didn’ it kill him? Why’d he only walk away with a few scratches!?”
>None of them listen and the tan mare’s left alone with the three of you.
>”I’ve asked this before, and I’ll ask it again, why do you hate me so much? It HAS to be some speciest thing.” You say in a low angry voice as you hop down from the chair.

>She starts turning red with anger, “We ain’t never had any real troubles with ‘monsters’ and whatnot until you came along. You wanna know what ah think? Honestly?”
>You return the stare and grit your teeth, “I’m asking aren’t I?”
>She shakes her head and looks at you with disgust, “Either ya brought that thing with ya, which makes ya every bit tha responsible for it... Or there’s only one real monster ‘round these parts.... An’ ah think it’s right here in this room.”
>Twilight and Fluttershy give cries of outrage, but Applejack’s not listening as she storms out the door.
>What was the saying? You can fool some of the people....
>Twilight pats your leg, “I’m sorry Anon, I don’t know what’s gotten into her.... My letter’s almost ready to send to the Princess, I might need to add something in about this monster problem.”
>You just shrug and head back upstairs, “I think I’ll just stay inside the rest of the day.”

>After thanking Angel for rescuing you, you spend a while sulking and contemplating in your room.
>Twilight does check on you before she heads off for the day.
>She makes sure her magic was performed correctly and even manages to reduce the scars on your chest.
>”I’m pretty excited to finally get this letter to Princess Celestia,” She says, making idle chit chat. “Though it’s more like a book what with you being a new species and all.”
>You’re not paying too much attention, just gazing out your window into the woods.
>She keeps babbling on, “I wouldn’t doubt it if she wanted to see you herself.”
>The forest calls to you.
>”She’s VERY nice, cares about everyp0ny in Equestria and I’m sure she’ll care about you too.”
>You want to go back out there.
>”And after she accepts you, I’m certain Applejack will come around.... Are you even listening to me?”
>You NEED to go back.
>”ANON!” Her hoof smacks your shoulder and snaps you out of it.
>You casually drift your head down towards her, “Yeah Celestia will like me or something.”
>She frowns and turns to leave, “I know today’s been really rough on you.... But I’m sure things will get better.”
>You just nod and turn your eyes back out the window.

>You need some air.
>Trot on down the stairs, and out the front door.
>Don’t know where Fluttershy ran off to though.
>Probably trimming a pussy.
>Cat that is, horses don’t do that.
>You take a different route into the woods. You’re sure all bodies or whatnot have been cleared, you just don’t want to be reminded of what happened.
>You don’t go too deep in, just enough.
>Once you’re nice and secluded, you sit under a tree. How do you get that ancestor guy to show back up?
>”All you have to do is will me Anon,” The familiar glowing visage forms before you. “Good to see you looking so well. These creatures are surely blessed by the spirits.”
>Oh boy, more shit you don’t understand.
>You stand up, “I would like to learn more about... Whatever I am.”
>It chuckles, “Excellent. Where would you like to begin?”
>No goddamn clue.... “WHAT am I?”
>It begins pacing, “Like I said before, you are a Garou, Werewolf in laymans terms.”
>”So... I’ll turn every full moon or something?”
>It give less of a chuckle, and more of a demeaning laugh, “No, throw out your preconceived notions and fairy tales. You proved that theory wrong just last night remember?”
>You rub your healed chest, “Yeah, I guess so....”
>The spirit continues, “You are Homid born... You are the product of a fellow Garou and a human. You were born human, raised human.” It sighs, “Too bad you weren’t Lupus born, this would have been much simpler.”
>You sit down, feeling like a student out on a boring but important field trip. “And Lupus born is?”
>”Not currently important,” It sighs. “Instead, let us go over your five forms.”

>”Earth, wind, air, fire, and heart?” You say sarcastically.
>If it was capable of it, you’d be certain your ancestor spirit would have smacked you. Instead it’s form just bristles angrily. “No you welp! Homid, Glabros, Crinos, Hispo, and Lupus.”
>You just blink for a few moments, “Again with the words... You said Homid was human... Last night... Crinos? That’s the werewolf thing... Warform right?”
>”Correct. We won’t worry about Glabros, it honestly has no use in this land.” It lowers down to your seated position, “You managed Crinos on your own... I want you focus your inner wolf.”
>You laugh, “Wolf... Like a dog?”
>”Indeed. Inside every Garou beats the heart a pack animal, a predator.... You’ve done it once before.”
>You shake your head and close your eyes. You think and focus. Picturing those wolves you keep seeing out here. Their bodies, their forms, their movements.
>Why does your clothes feel weird......
>You are a wolf! A black furred honest to goodness wolf!
>After shaking free from your clothes, you look around with new eyes. New sights and smells and sounds. The entire world perceived in a new light.

>”I... I’m a wolf....” You bark out in shock.
>The spirit gives a cheer, “Indeed! There are entire tribes that are made solely of Lupus born.”
>You sniff a patch of ground, catching a scent of something unfamiliar.... Then again, most things are. “Wait,” You pause and look up. “So... Lupus born is between a Garou and a wolf? So... We’re also dog fuckers... Great.”
>Again if it could smack you it would, “Look at yourself right now, There are those of your kind that were born, raised, and live this way. Your Lupus kin have a greater connection to the spirits than you ever shall! It’s not unnatural.... As long as they don’t do it in their human form.”
>Ok, ok... Makes sense.
>”So,” you start, “Five forms, I’ve managed three, one’s not useful, what’s the other?”
>It gives a spirit equivalent of a shrug, “Hispo.... Think a giant dire wolf. Not important now.” It motions behind you, “Besides, some of your friends want to play.”
>You look around and your tail begins moving on its own.
>The wolves you hunted with all that time ago gather nearby and watch you eagerly.
>It’s strange, You can’t understand them in the traditional sense.
>Instead it’s all instinctual.
>Every movement of theirs has new meaning.
>Just before you all sprint off together, your ancestor says, “enjoy the day, tomorrow, you get your spear back and learn about the spirits in the world.”

>It’s all good fun.
>You all bound and play
>They must have sensed the wolf inside of you, which is why they were so curious.
>They must have sensed the raw power lying beneath the surface, which is why they were so submissive.
>All that makes sense as you’re the Alpha of your own pack.
>You don’t notice the time as the sky begins fading into red.
>One of your pack mate’s ears perk up and he gives a low growl.
>You hear it too.
>Heightened wolf senses and all.
>A bestial roar, like a lion or something.
>They all retreat into the forest, you... You’re curious.
>It’s the first time you’ve seen one of these things. Fluttershy told you plenty about them though.
>A Manticore....
>Sure wants to get up into that tree though.
>Past it’s deep roars, you hear something else. It’s a terrified scream of a child. Trapped in the tree.
>What do you do? You can’t just charge in there as you are.
>A tiny wolf versus that thing....
>Your decision is made for you when the manticore swipes at the tree and it begins to give way.
>That familiar feeling of bones cracking.
>Your howl shakes the forest as your warform goes to war.

>It’s different this time.
>No blinding rage, no helpless observing.
>You are in complete control.
>Your howl stuns the manticore briefly as you erupt from the treeline.
>It rears back to swipe and you bring a massive paw up and block.
>Your teeth sinking into it’s arm and bone snaps in your jaw.
>It cries out in agony before you kick it away, slashing it’s belly open with the claws on your feet.
>The last you see of it is the creature limping off, probably to die of shock and blood loss.
>The urge to chase and finish it, difficult to suppress.
>But the child’s safety is your top concern.....
>There it is, shaking, terrified, and orange.
>You recognize her... That small one you threw in the air after the market.
>The look of fear in her eyes tells you enough. All she can tell is one monster’s been replaced by another.
>You’re easily tall enough to reach an arm out for her to jump down on. She just wails and shrinks back more.
>You wrestle with your tongue, forcing the simple words out. This form wasn’t meant for this type of speech, but you still manage a, “Friend.... Help...”
>She stops sobbing enough for you to get another few words out, “Help... Scoot... A... Loo.”
>Your ears fold backwards and you let out a whine like a sad dog. A massive 9 foot tall weaponized dog.
>She inches her way towards your open paw. “You... You don’t want to... To eat me?” She asks.
>”No... Hurt... I...” Talking is hard in this form.
>She takes a deep breath and hops down. She’s so small, or you’re so big, you could easily wrap your whole hand around her and crush her.
>Instead you let her down.

>She looks you over with wide eyes, “I thought you were the monster everyp0ny’s been scared of... I thought...”
>”Friend,” You grunt out as you sit down across from her.
>She nods, “I see that NOW... Wait, you knew my name. How?”
>You get up and make your way back to where you stashed your clothes.
>Scootaloo doesn’t follow you, but you hear her shout, “Don’t worry, I wont tell a single p0ny I saw you ok? Maybe we can hang out sometime?”
>”Go... Home...” Is all you say as you disappear into the ever darkening forest.
>Before you even get to your clothes, your ancestor pops out of nowhere, “That’s quite interesting.” He says.
>”Why wouldn’t I try and save her? She’s just a kid?” You say in your wolfen tongue.
>He floats along side of you, “No, not that. There’s no delirium here...”
>You get to the clearing and shake off your dirty clothes, “Deliriwha?” You ask as you shift back to your human self.
>”Back in your world, humans are so TERRIFIED of Garou, if they ever saw one in their warform, they phase it out of their memory. Usually after fleeing by any means necessary.” It explains while modestly looking away.
>After acquiring pants, you ask, “And why is that? More magic?”
>”No child, it’s instinctual... It’s what happens when a species is slaughtered and culled for thousands of year.”
>That’s cause for concern, “I thought you said we were protectors or something.”
>It sighs and begins to fade once more, “We have.... A checkered past. You shall learn more tomorrow, return home and rest now.”

>You head home and hope Fluttershy’s not too scared.
>It’s actually the opposite.
>Probably because what’s his name? Whopper.... NO Big Mac’s hanging around and just finished chatting with her.
>That jerk.
>No, he’s probably apologizing for his sister’s behavior.
>He’s just heading out and you say as he goes to pass by, “Here to apologize for Applejack?”
>”Nope,” He says without looking at you.
>He’s honest at least, you’ll give him that.
>Something about him just being here set’s your jimmies a rustling. “So just trying to horn in on my mare then?” You ask attempting to rustle right back.
>He flashes you an angry glare, “She ain’t yours.”
>You smirk and wave to Fluttershy as she heads back inside as you ask Mac low, “How do you know that? Maybe all she wanted was a man who was more direct.” You hold out your hands and wiggle your fingers, “Of course these help in getting things ‘loosened up’ if you know what I mean.”
>Oh he has an idea, “Why? Ah thought you was a better fella... Ya knew...”
>You start walking to the front door, “Your sister wants to start a pissing war with me, that’s fine, I can piss right on back... I think I should get to bed early tonight, probably won’t get much sleep though.”
>You leave him in the night as you smile to yourself. Feeling every bit the Alpha you know you are.

>You do get to bed early and get up just before dawn.
>You pack some things and head out.
>On your way to the forest, your ancestor pops back up, “Now child, are you ready for your next lesson?”
>You shrug, “I guess, what’ll you teach me today?”
>It chuckles, “Oh no, not me. First thing’s first, Why have you not retrieved your spear?”
>You sigh, “I lost it, when I ran from the storm that night.”
>”In a cave, yes?” It asks, hovering in circles around you.
>The forest envelops you, “....Yes.” The thought of that cave brings on memories of fear.... Why?
>”Perhaps that is where you should begin.....” Your ancestor muses as he drifts away.
>Why’s that stupid spear so important?
>Maybe it’s a family heirloom or some shit.
>You know you’re on the right path because you’re getting more and more scared at the mere memories of this area.
>Why are you so scared?
>Yeah it was because of the thunder right?
>But it’s perfectly clear out.......
>Your heart stops when you find the entrance to the cave.
>It’s horrifying to you.
>Still, you will yourself inside.
>It’s as dark as you remembered.
>Your shaking body stiffens as you hear a voice as low as thunder. “Welcome back egg-smasher.”
>Oh, that’s right... That’s why you were so scared....
>You thought you were afraid before, now you’re terrified.
>All you want to do is pop into your wolf form and run as fast and as far as you can go.
>”Last time we met, it was on less than pleasant terms.” The voice echos, “I may have misjudged you... It is hard for my kind to forget after all.”

>Ok, so you’re not paralyzed by fear anymore.
>But that just means you’re back to shaking, at least you can ask, “So... So what changed?”
>The throaty chuckle shakes the cave. “I spoke to your friend, it misses you ever so much. Would talk non-stop about you.”
>The cave rumbles as you feel giant feet getting closer... But you’re no longer scared. You feel something, something familiar. Maybe it’s just because it’s not angry.
>”A friend?” You ask, “Do you mean my ancestor?”
>Another rumbly chuckle, “No egg-smasher... Your weapon of course.”
>”My wea......“ You stop and your mouth drops as it finally emerges into the light... Or some of it.
>The beast is MASSIVE.
>Scaled and sharp with rows of vicious teeth.
>But you feel something familiar.
>Because it’s in you as well.
>It smiles a toothy smile. “I apologize, perhaps a form you are more accustomed to?” When it speaks, it’s mouth merely opens and the words pour out.
>It slinks back into the shadows.
>Claws rake the stone and a roar turns into a smaller shout.
>”Oh it’s been so long!” A voice so old, you can almost hear the dust calls out. “Let me get something.... AH this will do.”
>No tremors this time, just a patter of skin on stone.
>”My name is Swims-Without-Clutch... But you please call me Swims.” The wizened old chinese man says before giving a manic laugh. “It has been almost two hundred years since my last visitor.”

>How could he be?
>But....
>He’s much shorter than you, mostly due to him being so hunched over, supported by.... YOUR SPEAR!
>”My name’s Anon,” You say politely.
>His wrinkled features twist into a warm smile.
>You notice he’s draped in tattered rags.
>”So...” You stammer, “What are you? You feel like... Like me I guess, but you...”
>He gives a maniacal chuckle and finds a rock to rest his bones. “I am a Mokole, Dragonkin.”
>More words you don’t understand!
>He sees the look in your eyes and smiles again. “We were the first changers, there are so many, but we were the first. During the time of kings... Dinosaurs. We possess Mnesis... The memory.” He lays your spear across your lap and gives a stretch. “We remember the memories of our ancestors so nothing can truly be forgotten. That was until.....”
>He suddenly grows quite sad.
>With a strain, he stands and begins drawing a circle around the both of you. “Until your kind came that is...”
>”That was... Back in the human world right?”
>He nods. “Your kind saw us as something to be exterminated. A relic of the old and tainted creatures to be destroyed. Such was the will of the Garou, Gaia’s defenders.” With the circle done, he begins jotting down markings, strange glyphs, “The War of Rage it was called... Exactly what it was. A war of hate and anger with no true point.”
>He looks up from his work with that smile, “I don’t know how I arrived in this land either nearly one thousand years ago, but my memory... It remained intact.”
>A thousand years? “How are you? What? A thousand years is a long time and you don’t look a day over two hundred.”
>He laughs, “Why, I slept!”

>Ok, sleeping prevents ageing, you’re learning so much already.
>”It was how my kind survived the Rage, we slept and waited until your kind were less.... Young and impetuous. The Sleep of Kings, we called it.” He sets your spear in the center of the circle and beckons you over.
>”Over time,” He continues as you join him, “Your kind forgot... It’s too hard for us though. Everything our ancestors knew, so do we as if we lived it ourselves.”
> You politely nod, “I see,” You say softly.
>Once again, he chuckles, “I apologize, it has been a few centuries since I had good conversation. I’m sure you want to be reunited with your fetish....”
>You choke out, “MY WHAT?!”
>Swims cocks his head to the side, “Your fetish boy! Your spear... It is a magical item of significance... A fetish.”
>OH... Oooooh, Ok that makes more sense.
>Well, not really, but having a magic spear’s better than wanting to have sex with it.
>Swims continues as he looks down at your weapon, “The spirit imbued into it speaks highly of you. Tales of valor and honor. You were once quite respected.... I’m rambling again, it is time to reunite you two.”
>Shit, you’re talking to a were-lizard in a cave talking about reunitting with a spirit in a spear. Why not?
>Swims lowers his head and mumbles something in a language you don’t understand.
>The circle begins to glow and hum.
>A hemisphere of light envelops the both of you.
>The light fades and the world outside your bubble is quite different.
>”What is this?” You ask as you look around in wonder.
>Swims chuckles, “This is the Umbra child, the spiritual reflection of the real world.”

>Everything has a near purple tinge.
>Near the entrance of the cave a very living plant bristles with a kind of energy as small spiders crawl all over it, searing bits off. Some sort of slug creatures devour the droppings.
>You spin and see the living embodiment of the wind playfully whipping around the cave.
>Even the rocks themselves seem alive.
>”I.... I don’t... This is amazing!” You exclaim.
>You can hear swims pick up your spear. “The world is inhabited by all manner of spirits. Every plant, animal, animate, and inanimate object has a spiritual equivalent that resides in them.”
>He stands and walks to you. “Sometimes, spirits can be coerced into helping. Occasionally to very special individuals, they grant their service within an object.”
>He takes the spear and extends it out from the bubble, into this ‘Umbra’
>It still looks like the same weapon, but it crackles with electricity.
>An electricity spirit? Lightning spirit? How long has it been there?
>Swims senses your wonder and pulls the spear back, “It says you two have been together for a long while, brought much honor and glory to your peoples.... It misses you. You two have been separated for so long.”
>”But I had it ever since I arrived here.....” You say with confusion.
>He sounds every bit the wizened old master he probably is as he laughs at you, “Yes, you had the physical object, but you were no longer connected to the spirit within.”

>”The spirit within...” You whisper as you reach out to your weapon.
>Swims gladly hands it over. ”Feel your spiritual connection, reach out with your inner beast, become one with your ally.”
>You breathe and focus.
>A rush of understanding fills you.
>The spear itself crackles in your hands.
>Followed by a shared mutual joy.
>”Brilliant!” Swims exclaims with a toothy grin. “Now let me see you.”
>He grabs both sides of your face and twists your head around. All the while going “Hmmmmm,” And, “Ohhhhh”
>After a few moment, he smiles to you, “You are....”
>Amazing? Special? Superior?
>”Completely average!” He says before laughing.
>Average?
>Swims mumbles something before clapping his hands.
>That purple shadow world seems to shimmer and in a splash becomes the world you two began this little trip.
>He continues as he gets up and wanders deeper into the cave slowly, “Interesting, I would have thought you special... Completely average for your kind.”
>You just give a grunt of disapproval and thank him.
>”This Rite has taken much out of me... Meditate on what you have learned. Feel free to return here if you wish”
>You shout another thanks as he disappears into the darkness of his cave.
>9 foot meat chainsaw with a magic spear.... Fuck yes!

>You’ve spent the past few days going to your favorite forest.
>Sometimes to hunt, but mostly to practice changing.
>Your spear ever magnificent.
>So attuned that it also grows with you when you enter your warform into basically a pole with a spikey bit atop.
>Things seem pretty awesome.
>One day as you’re getting ready to head off, Fluttershy stops you.
>She’s as adorably embarrassed as usual as she asks, “Um... You spend a lot of time out there for work...” She looks down and scuffs at the ground, “Maybe you want to just... You know.... Go for a walk or something? I could join... Only if you wanted.”
>You honestly had no plans other than just run around like a dog.
>Putting your spear aside, you give her a wink, “Madam Fluttershy I thought you’d never ask.”
>Suave mother fucker.
>She lets out a bizarre giggle and smiles wide.
>You wonder if taking your spear along would be a bit unnerving for her, but you grab it up and use it as a walking stick.
>You can almost hear the spirit within it grunting in irritation.
>But it doesn’t shock you, so you take that as a good sign.
>You pack some quick food items in case you two get a little hungry and head out.
>She must REALLY like walks, just smiling so damn wide.
>When she looks up and sees you looking at her, she blushes and hides her face.
>”Aren’t you scared?” You ask her as you two wander slightly deeper into the forest.
>She shakes her head, “No. I like nature.... And I know you’ll keep me safe.”
>Your turn to blush.
>Doesn’t help that she’s really close to you.
>Like almost rubbing against your leg....
>A loud bubbling snarl makes her leap back.

>Instinctively, you bring your spear up and search the wood line.
>You curse yourself for paying too much attention to her and not your surroundings.
>Through the shadows of the foliage, demons emerge.
>Quadrupedal.... No, centaur like with sinister clawed looking hands.
>Snarling crocodilian snout.
>You glance down to a shuddering Fluttershy, “Run,” You hiss to her. “Run NOW!” She can’t be here, not when you change... She can’t know.
>Well, why don’t you just run too?
>NO! They need to die. There’s something about them that makes every fiber of your being scream ‘slaughter’.
>Fluttershy’s too scared and you’re starting to get surrounded.
>Your spear senses a fight and has already begun cracking softly.
>Those things just circle menacingly.
>Growling and snarling.
>One lashes out, its tongue shooting from a hideously toothed maw.
>It... Misses you?
>No, not you....
>”ANON!” Fluttershy screams as she starts getting dragged across the ground, her hooves not very effective at slowing her.
>She’s out of your reach.
>But not theirs as one takes her by a wing and pins her to the ground.
>There’s only one thing you can do.
>Bones crack and muscles expand.
>The creatures seem stunned for a moment, just watching.
>It’s not until you let out a roar do they move.
>Right into you.
>They hardly stand a chance.
>The first one to you gets a spear to the chest and gets thrown back as your spear discharges a shock leaving a smouldering monster.
>The second, a claw through its neck.
>The third one... Well he gets through.

>You howl in fury as the thing leaps onto your back and sinks massive teeth into your shoulder.
>You drop your spear and wrench the thing off of you then snap its neck.
>Fluttershy’s struggling, but still pinned.
>Still surrounded....
>Your hands move on their own.
>Spirits of storms swirls into your grasp.
>You slam your hands together and the forest shakes with a Clap of Thunder.
>Trees bend and some snap as the boom knocks all the creatures to the ground.
>Like a vengeful avatar of death, you’re upon them.
>Tearing throats, rending limbs, and generally making a mess.
>Fluttershy’s just as affected as they were though.
>By the time she gets back her senses, one of them is already back on her.
>The nearest demon becomes your weapon as you take it by its legs and swing it in a roar of hateful fury.
>If there were any left alive, they flee.
>Your blood is up.
>You’re hunched in a war stance, claws ready for another target.
>You scan the woods, looking for more things to kill.
>The ringing din of anger in your ears punctured by a single soft sound.
>”A.... Anon?”
>You turn, snarling.
>Quickly, you’re pulled back to reality as you look into Fluttershy’s eyes.
>Oh no.....
>Your ears fold back and your shoulders sag.
>Of all the p0nies in this world, she was the last one you wanted to hate you.
>A sorrowful whine emanates from your throat. “I’m so sorry,” You say in your twisted wolf language.
>”Why should you be sorry?” She says, smiling, “You saved me.”
>Wait, she understands you?
>And she’s not terrified?

>Your ears unconsciously perk back up, “You... Understand me?” You bark and growl.
>Fluttershy nods, “I’ve ALWAYS been good with animals....” Her smile grows, “And that’s what you are! A big puppy! Come here and let me look at you, they didn’t hurt you did they?”
>You take two steps and you’re right next to her. In this form, she’s barely up to your knee.
>You lower yourself to the ground and she starts fluttering around you.
>You’re not hurt, your shoulder already healed.
>As she checks you over, you ask, “So.... So you don’t think I’m a monster? That I’ve been lying this whole time?”
>She comes back around to your front, still with that smile, “Anon, I know you better than anyp0ny. You’re no monster.” She rubs behind your ears, feels really nice. “You’re a wonderful human... Now come on, let’s get home.”
>You look at your form and the tatters of your clothes.... Really need to get better at that.
>This won’t work... OH! you know.
>She watches in amazement as you shift to your wolf form.
>Amazement turns to affection as she almost tackles you, “You ARE like a big puppy! OH! I KNEW there was a reason I liked you!”
>You honestly don’t know what to say.

>Fluttershy hums to herself happily as you trot beside her as a wolf.
>”Hey, Fluttershy?” You bark, “You said you don’t think I’m a monster right?”
>She smiles that kind smile again, “Of course you’re not silly.”
>You can’t help but give a whine, “But... I... But I am.”
>She shakes her head and laughs at you, “Of course you’re not... Those THINGS must have been the monster, I wonder how many there are...”
>”The cougar, those 5 stallion... That was ALL me Fluttershy.” You stop dead in your tracks, expecting a beating or a scream of terror before she runs from you.
>Instead another smile, “Don’t joke about that Anon, I... I can feel that you’re good.”
>”But I...” You try.
>Fluttershy just keeps fluttering home slowly, “I wonder what we’ll have for dinner?”
>Silly filly’s not hearing any of it.
>Is she in denial?
>Best not to push it now.
>You feel something familiar and you see the glowing form of your ancestor. Before you can say anything, he shimmers and softly say, “No need to respond, you’re the only one that can see or hear me.”
>Oh ok, that makes you feel ALL the more sane.
>”It pains me to see those things in this land, the great destroyers reach has touched here as well..... Fomori.... Those THINGS were fomori.”
>You’re about ready to ask what the hell he’s on about when he says, “I believe it’s time you learned about the Triat. I did so wish to start with the Wyld, but your friend Twilight Sparkle has made arrangements for you to learn about the Weaver first.”
>Before he disappates, he offers one word of advice, “When they come, don’t fight them.”
>And with that, he shimmers away.
>What the fuck did that mean?

>You refrain from more talk about what happened.
>Don’t want to damage Fluttershy’s mind any more.
>The next day, the two of you are visited by Twilight.
>”Good morning Anon,” She says with a sheepish smile, “I was wondering if you could join me? I need to collect some samples in the forest and... Well I could use the company.”
>She’s not looking at you... Great, you have a creepy stalker or a weirdo crush or something.
>Being the nice guy you are, you join her.
>It also gives you a chance to get away from Fluttershy for a bit. She hasn’t REALLY recovered from last night.
>And by ‘recovered’ you mean ‘not-shutting-up-about-you-also-being-a-wolf’.
>You and Twilight trek into the forest along a safe path you’ve used many times.
>”So, um...” She says, breaking a silence between you two. “I sent my letter about you to the princess.”
>Ah yes, this mystical ‘princess’ Twilight seems to get all wet about.
>You nod, “That’s good, I know it was important to you.”
>She stares down at the ground as you two enter a small clearing, “Yeah... In fact she wants to meet you.”
>Well not a surprise, a strange creature in her land and all...
>She stops and you take a few more steps before looking back at her. She finally raises her head with a sad look, “Please don’t fight them.”
>Why does that sound familiar?
>A cold metal wraps around your neck as your legs are swept out from under you.
>As you hit the ground, you hear Twilight screaming....

>You get your wits about you just as another chain loops itself around your body.
>Slithering like a serpent.
>Twilight shouts again, “Shining! You don’t have to be so mean!”
>Some unseen surfer dude calls back, “These were Princess Celestia’s orders Twiley, I’m just following them.”
>You finally manage to get to a sitting position, “Ok you jerk,” You growl out. “You’re making me angry... You won’t like me when I’m angry.”
>You’re seeing red.
>The asshole’s first mistake is that they didn’t kill you or knock you out.
>You focus your inner beast.
>.........
>Nothing.
>You look around and try again.
>.........
>NOTHING!
>Something’s wrong.
>That spiritual connection you’ve been feeling is.... Gone?
>What magic is this? What have they done to you?
>”Yeah, the princess thought you’d react like this.” This Shining guy says, “We were ordered to use silver chains for some reason, she said it’d make you more passive.” His horn glows as you feel the chains tighten and bind together.
>Next thing you know, you’re lifted off the ground and being levitated to a well concealed chariot.
>”Twilight! You bitch!” You shout out, “I trusted you!”
>Twilight makes a step as if she’ll rush to your aid before stopping, “I’m sorry... She just wants to talk to you... She’s just scared I guess.”
>Scared? Shit... This princess must know.

>Your trip’s pretty quiet and you calm down enough to attempt civil conversation.
>”So, Shining was it?” You say over the rush of the wind as you speed along in the chariot, still bound with the silver chain.
>He glances back to you, “That’s CAPTAIN Shining Armor to you.”
>”Well ok there Captain Shiny,” You say in your best mock military manner. “You and Twilight seemed pretty chummy, I take it you two know each other?” Though you can’t give him the nudge nudge, you sure do give him the wink wink, “Slip her your beef yet? If you know what I’m sayin’?”
>He quickly turns to you and backhoofs you, “She’s my sister!”
>You shake your head to get the ringing out, “Good to know she inherited the niceness of the family.”
>He just scowls.
>”What the hell’s going to happen to me?” You ask frankly as a large castle city quickly approaches.
>He smirks and shrugs, “Princess Celestia wants to make sure you’re not a threat. Something about how a thousand years ago, your kind laid waste to the land... Not really in any of the legends though....”
>You right yourself in the carriage, “Legend? What the heck happened a thousand years ago that warranted a legend?”
>Shining Armor raises a wary eye brow, an expression that oozes ‘are you retarded?’
>You stare at him until he gets the impression you’re not joking.
>His face becomes stone cold as he turns back to the front of the carriage, “Night Mare Moon happened.”
>This is serious to these folks apparently, “I have no clue what you’re talking about, but I guess I have no choice about seeing this princess of yours.”
>”Princesses,” He corrects, “Luna has a lot of explaining to do.”

>You’re drug from the carriage and taken into a large throne room looking thing.
>There stands two unicorns with pegasus wings.
>They’re a bit taller than normal p0nies you’re used too.
>Their manes wave and shimmer.
>The biggest of the two, the white one, just glowers at your form as it’s sprawled in from them.
>The smaller purple on just looks away in shame.
>The white one looks up to Shining Armor, “Leave us Captain,” She orders, “All of you! I want to ask our newest arrival some questions in peace.”
>The obedient soldiers filter out of the room without a question.
>You manage to get yourself into a more dignified sitting position, “You must be Princess Celestia and you must be Luna?”
>Celestia nods for a moment, her face still stern before turning to the other princess, “So Luna, is this one of yours as well? Up to your old tricks again?”
>Luna’s head snaps to her sister, fear and dread in her eyes, “No sister! We have since forsaken our old ways! The elements purified me of The Dissolver’s influences!”
>Celestia takes a few steps towards you, her horn glows and you can feel a warmth deep inside of you, “Hmmmm.... You may be right. I don’t feel the same corruption in him as I did the others.”
>You do your best to be polite, “What others? There are more like me here? Where are they?” >You can’t contain your excitement. You may not actually be alone.
>Celestia scowls and finally acknowledges you, “The last time your kind was here was about a hundred years ago, before that, a small army helped Night Mare Moon almost destroy this land.”

>”Night Mare Moon?” You ask. “I heard that name... She was around a thousand years ago right?”
>Luna looks even more ashamed as Celestia answers, “Yes, my sister was corrupted and I had to lead this land to war to defeat her.”
>You smirk and raise an eyebrow, “A thousand years ago? There’s no way you were around a thousand years ago and still look so young.”
>Aha! You finally get a small smile.
>Not the ‘Oh you flatterer’ smile you were hoping, but a ‘you naive fool’ smile, “A thousand years is nothing the physical manifestations of the Sun and Moon spirits.”
>Instincts kick in and you straighten up.
>Even with your limited knowledge, you KNOW these two are important not just to p0ny kind, but to you as well.
>Celestia continues, “My sister brought forth an army of your kind. They followed her because she represented their precious moon... They soon became corrupted just as she had. Those that survived were banished back from where they came and the bridge supposedly sealed.”
>You lower your head, “So that’s it? You’re going to send me back over this bridge and be done with me?”
>Your mind drifts to an image of Fluttershy all alone again, crying.
>”I wish I could,” Celestia whispers, “But as I said, the bridge is sealed.... I don’t know how you got here.... My plan was to kill you.”
>”So what changed?” You ask, bringing your head up again.
>Celestia looks back at her sister, “Because you’re not corrupted. You are pure and judging by Twilight Sparkle’s letters about you.... You appear to be an honorable being.”
>Warm and fuzzies, “So... You’ll let me go?”
>Celestia sighs to herself, “No.”

>New sensation.
>You’re phasing through the solid floors of the castle. It’s like you’re gently being lowered through layers of custard.
>You emerge into a large crystalline cavern... And plummet.
>With nothing more productive you can do, you scream.
>Suddenly, you’re bouncing... But still screaming.
>Once you dare to open your eyes, you find yourself in a massive web.
>Well, don’t just FIND yourself there. You’re stuck.
>The strands bounce slightly as you hear a voice behind you, “My my my, what seems to have been dropped for me now?” An icy cold feminine voice whispers from out of sight.
>You’re still bound in silver chains, “My name’s Anon and I’m apparently a prisoner of these princesses.” You tell her your name, maybe if you make it personal, she won’t hurt you.
>You hear her hum in thought before she says with a giggle, “No, I think I’ll call you dinner.”
>Well so much for that.
>Last ditch effort, “So uh... If you’re going to eat me, can I at least know your name?” You ask, your voice shaking slightly in fear.
>There’s a pause.
>You feel the strands bounce again as she moves.... Right over top of you.
>She’s a damned spider centaur thing!
>Her carapace and fine hairs of her body brush over you. Her eight legs move with precision as she turns to face you.
>Aside from the whole ‘spider thing’, her top half isn’t too bad looking... Aside from the small mandibles and multiple eyes.
She leans in and peers at you, “It has been MANY a year since my dinner asked me that... Weaves-the-Lies.”
>Wait... Weaves... WEAVER!
>You smile up at her, “I’ve been looking for you....”

>She steps back, “Me? How? Why?”
>She seems visibly flustered. Surprised even.
>”What’s wrong?” You ask, craning your head up to keep her in sight. “Didn’t really expect visitors?”
>Her multiple eyes go wide as she screams, “NO! Everything that’s happened in this kingdom over the past 30 years has been planned and manipulated by me.... Except that avatar of the Wyld, but he was taken care of!”
>She pounces back towards you, her mandibles sink into your neck slightly, just barely drawing blood.
>She tastes you for a second before screeching and stepping away from you.
>”You! You’re one of... OF THEM!” She brings her hands to her head in frustration. “Your kind always fighting so hard against the majesty of the great Weaver!”
>Ok, time to appease, “No, please, I want to learn more and... And accept The Weaver as my lord and savior.”
>She puts her fit of anger on hold, “You wish to learn the great former’s true glory?”
>You just nod.
>A crazed smile creeps across her face as she rushes back to you and strokes a hand down your cheek, “The Weaver, the entity that gives shape and meaning to all things. Bringer of order to chaos and enforcer of a rigid stasis.... Imagine.... An eternally unchanging universe.”
>You just smile... Smile and nod.
>She eyes your expression warily. “You seem to understand... but do you comprehend? I must meditate on this. I will see you tonight my dear.”
>She turns away from you and you watch in horror as her spinnerets coat you in a cocoon of thread.
>You’re left alone in a web in a cave.
>And your nose itches.

>Bound by spider silk.
>The anguish of your itchy nose replaced with a desperate need to pee.
>Before you get a chance to dishonor yourself with release... She comes back.
>The familiar and frightening bounce on the web, “I’ve gaze into the Pattern-Web,” Weaves says in a singsong voice in the dark. “I see your place here.”
>Oh man.
>”She stands at your feet and presses her human half against your restricted body, “I shall let you go in time, but first... Why do you want to know about the great Weaver? Your kind seem to disparage the grand designer at every turn.”
>You swallow hard as her mandibles brush against your cheek, “A... Curiousity. Like you said, my kind tends to disregard the Weaver, why’s it so important?”
>Her eyes light up like a fangirl asked about her hobbies, “Why.... EVERYTHING! Dogma, science, technology, all Weaver influenced. Why your very NAME is a result of his glorious touch.” As if to emphasize her point, she gently wraps a chitin covered hand around your throat.
>”That’s... Really interesting.” Your legs do a restricted potty dance in your cocoon. “Uh, do you think you could let me go though? I REALLY need to use the....”
>She quickly pulls away and her spider body straddles your, “Of course, we don’t have much time and they’ll be coming for you.... Just know, I’ll be keeping my eyes on you.”
>You simply pee yourself in terror as her form dissolves into THOUSANDS of spider.
>Just a melting undulating mass of crawlers.
>They make quick work of the cocoon and you drop heavily the last few feet to the ground.
>You scramble to your feet as the spiders vanish into the dark.
>”Why hath thou invaded this land?” A voice booms through the cave.

>The loud voice almost sends you back to the ground.
>You’re still bound by the silver chains, so staying on your cramped legs is a bit awkward.
>You turn to where you assume the voice came from and shout right on back, “What the hell do you mean? I just woke up in a library with a creepy p0ny! I’ve been living as peacefully as I can with a quiet yellow pegasus! If I wanted to do something I would have.....”
>The princess you recognize as Luna emerges from the dark, her expression not the shameful one you saw earlier, only angry.
>”The evil thy kind wrought when we were.... A different p0ny remains fresh in our mind.” She says in a less loud tone, but still angry.
>She seems different... Very respectable... You feel like you NEED to respect her.
>But that makes sense, werewolf, Luna, moon, all that.
>You drop to your soggy knees, “That was supposedly a thousand years ago princess, please don’t blame me for the actions of a few so long ago.”
>Her eyes narrow, “And a hundred years ago? The previous time on of your ilk arrived?”
>You drop your head, “I don’t know anything about that princess, I’m sorry though. I’m sorry for whatever happened.”
>She grits her teeth, “One came... A SINGLE beast! It destroyed an entire town.... The survivors thrive now in the land you call P0nyville. Perhaps thou assume to finish the task?”
>You’re simply horrified and let it show, “No... Why would I do that? They’re my friends. They care about me!”
>She scowls before dropping her head, “We know. That is why you are to be freed.”

>You’re at least hosed down before you’re taken back to town.
>The sun’s just barely setting by the time you get back.
>What a shitty day.
>You get dropped off just outside Fluttershy’s cottage and released.
>Three fillys roar out of the front door to greet you.
>Ok, day’s gotten a lot better.
>”Mr. Anon!” Scootaloo shouts as she buzzes with excitement. “Fluttershy said Twilight said you were talking to the princess!”
>You smile, “Yup kids, that’s right.”
>”Princess Celestia seems like she’d be real nice,” Applebloom says.
>Sweetie Belle hops and screeches, “I really like her mane!”
>”Sure kids,” You say as you gently push past them, “Let me just say hi to Fluttershy really quick... Have you eaten? I’m starving.”
They bounce, giggle, and follow you through the door.
>And of course, Rarity is chatting pleasantly with Fluttershy.
>You give her a polite nod, but she’s in a talking mood.
>”Anon! Is what Fluttershy says TRUE?” Rarity shouts out the second she sees you.
>Oh shit, what has she said? What did she reveal?
>You stop dead and the three fillys run into the back of your legs, “I... Uhh... No, not at all.”
>Fluttershy giggles, “Oh Anon, no need to be modest. You saved my life after all.”
>Rarity hops over and puts a hoof on your leg, “Fighting those horrid things all by yourself to save poor Fluttershy.... I do apologize for how I’ve acted in the past. From now on, you shall be treated with the respect you deserve.”
>”Oh...” You say, “That’s all she told you?”
>Rarity smiles warmly, “But of course dahling, what more would she need to say?”
>You look over to Fluttershy as she gives you a wink.
>Yeah, day’s going better....

>With a new pep in your step you head into the kitchen to get something to eat.
>Rarity follows you as the girls scamper about in the other room.
>”I must say,” Rarity muses as you start pulling out plates. “You’ve quite endeared yourself to little Scootaloo. She thinks you’re simply marvelous and her enthusiasm seems to have rubbed off on Sweetie Belle.”
>You turn to Rarity and lean against the counter, “Which in turn rubbed off on you?”
>She nods, “Helps that Fluttershy simply ADORES you.”
>Oh boy, have to do it...
>”So you’re saying,” You mischievously state, “That I have or very soon will.... Rub off on you?”
>Different lands, different terms you suppose because she doesn’t get it, “Oh yes dear. Continue pleasing Fluttershy and you and I shall become quite close.”
>You have to turn back to the shelves to hide your giggling.
>Such a child you are.
>You reach for a cupboard while fumbling for a knife.
>Rarity says behind you, “Oh if you’re making something for the girls, I can handle it. I know what Sweetie Belle likes and all.”
>You shake your head as you pull out a package of something. Your other hand finds the knife, the metal cool against your skin, “I can manage...”
>A thrum of soft magical energy and the knife is pulled from your grip.
>You swear to yourself.
>You were stupid enough to grab the knife by the blade just before Rarity pulled it from your grasp.
>You instinctively hold your hand out, just a simple slice on your finger.
>You’ve had worse.
>Rarity freaks out a bit. “OH DEAR!” She cries as her forelegs wrap around your arm and your finger goes straight into her mouth.......
>Gross and awkward.

>She sits there for a quick moment before her eyes go wide.
>She almost spits your finger out before blushing deeply, “Oh... I’m so sorry... Just a little something my mother used to do... Habit must have stuck and I panicked....”
>You quickly find something to wrap around your finger and say, “Yeah, it’s ok... Hope it doesn’t get infected now or something.”
>She shoots you a scowl before giving a shudder.
>Poor thing’s probably more disgusted than you are.
>She turns from you and slowly starts to head out, “If you’d be so kind however, once Sweetie Belle’s ready to come home, would you mind walking her? I do so worry about my sister.”
>With wound patched, you go back to making food, “Absolutely Rarity. After all, what are friends for?”
>You can hear her chuckle as she says her goodbyes to Fluttershy and gives Sweetie Belle her curfew.
>The food you make is accepted gratefully.
>Fluttershy mentions how sweet you are and sits pretty dang close to you.
>The girls ‘Awwww’ and you blush.
>This is.... Actually pretty nice.
>After the meal, you step outside for some air.
>Scootaloo follows you.
>”I want to thank you again...” She says, smiling up to you.
>You give her a smirk, “For what kiddo?”
>”For... Saving me from that Manticore,” Your heart drops, She DOES know.
>You open and close your mouth a few times, trying to find words.
>”Don’t worry,” She whispers, “I won’t tell anyp0ny... It’ll be our super special secret ok?”
>You nod and smile before reaching down and rustle her mane, “Thanks Scoots.”
>She giggles just before Sweetie Belle runs up, “Um... Sorry Mr. Anon... Can I go home? I’m really tired all of a sudden...”
>You give her a wave and head off.

>Sweetie Belle is exactly what her name implies.
>It’s well into the night, all the shops and everything are closed.
>She sings a soft song as you two walk.
>A soft lilting tune that makes you smile.
>As much as it pains you, you interrupt her tune, “So Sweetie Belle, you and your sister get along alright?”
>She’s adorable.
>She smiles up to you and gives a hop, “YEAH!” She screeches. “Rarity’s the best sister EVER!”
>She spends the rest of your walk telling about the time she proved how much Rarity loved her. Switching places with Applejack and a race.
>All pretty hard to follow.
>You drop her off at the boutique and head back.
>Of course, your ancestor apperates and asks, “So, what did you learn about the Weaver?”
>You scoff, “If that’s an accurate representative? Weaver’s fucking crazy!”
>It chuckles, “Indeed, however remember, the Weaver is the embodiment of order. Look around, all technology, structure, and everything we hold dear... thanks to the Weaver.”
>You let the words sink in.
>”Have I ever told you about my parents?” The soft voice says.
>You shake your head in the dark alley.
>It continues, “Oh so desperate for a child... All I had to do was put the mere thought into their mind and they accepted it without question. Of course once they had a REAL child, I feared the worst... But I do love my sister.”
>This is amazing, you love hearing this....
>”Oh but listen to me playing with my food. It is just so good to talk about these things.”
>And it’s so nice to listen.
>”Don’t worry, this won’t hurt at all and I’ll be sure to leave enough for you to keep you going. I just had a taste and needed more dahling.”

>You take a seat on the ground and she leans in.
>All Rarity had to do was ask and you were oh so willing to oblige.
>You tilt your head to the side as she wraps her lips around the the skin on your neck.
>As soon as her teeth sink in....
>Your hair stands on in and you snap out of whatever spell she put you under.
>You see red and push this abomination from you.
>She tumbles across the alley.
>In an instant, you’re ready for war.
>Teeth bared and claws strike the stone as you howl in rage.
>Nothing matters for you but this things death.
>Of course the pathetic creature screams in terror and runs.
>You’re fast, but so’s she.
>She tries to duck around some buildings in an attempt to lose you.
>You just barrel through them.
>NOTHING will stop you from getting to this appalling thing.
>She runs to her boutique and slams the door shut.... As if the flimsy wood could stop you.
>The door explodes off its hinges as you roar angrily.
>In the middle of the room sits an ottoman, your only obstacle.
>Who would just leave that in the center of the room?
>You smack it out of your way and it hits the wall with a ‘crack’
>There she is... That creature called Rarity.... She’s screaming!
>Makes you smile.... Except...
>She’s not screaming in fear.
>It’s a scream of sorrow that matches her expression.
>Your head clears long enough to hear what she’s actually saying.
>A long pained drawn out scream of pain as she looks to where you smacked that ottoman away. ”SWEETIE BELLE! NO!”
>You look over and see what you did.
>Sweetie Belle lays on the ground, a twisted mess beneath a splatter of blood.

>Oh no oh no...
>You did it again!
>You lost control....
>Now you tore up a chunk of the town and murdered Sweetie Belle.
>You look down to your massive paws and back up to Rarity.
>She’s already rushed to Sweetie Belle’s side.
>You can hear the townsfolks starting to form a militia or something.
>This is quite terrible.
>Rarity looks up to you, then at her demolished front door, “I... I can save her. They can’t see... You need to keep them away.... Please.”
>Her eyes tell you all you need to know.
>Well, you’ve fucked everything up... Been a rollercoaster day.
>Here goes nothing.
>You once again burst through the front door, this time, taking as much of the wall with you as you can just for the spectacle.
>Oh how they scatter when you pound out into the night.
>They scream and run.... All except one.
>She looks up defiantly from under her stetson.
>Your eyes narrow for a brief second before howling and scaling the nearest building.
>You stick to the rooftops as you charge out of town.
>The p0nies try their best to follow, but you’re pretty damned fast.
>Helps that once you get to a clear spot, you pop into your wolf form and then you REALLY book it.
>You plow through Fluttershy’s front door, much to her and Scootaloo’s surprise.
>Then you’re in your room and changed before running back down the stairs.
>Just in time for an angry mob.
>Led by your FAVORITE p0ny in the whole wide world.

>Slightly out of breath, you nod casually to her.
>”Applejack.” You say, containing your nervousness as best as you can.
>”Quite a coink-e-dink we chased that THING o’er here huh?” She shouts as she comes up the way towards you.
>Ok... Be cool... “Yeah, got a reasonable explanation for that....” Now think of one dummy.
>”Oh, ahm sure,” She muses, “Ya always seem ta. So what is it this time?”
>You take a deep breath, swallow hard, adjust your shirt.... Doing whatever you can to bide your time.
>”ANON! Dahling!” Rarity shouts as she pushes through the crowd. “Thank you ever so much... I see it didn’t hurt you? Must have ran off when it heard the rest of the town coming...”
>You smile, oh how you smile.
>”What in tarnation does that mean?” Applejack shouts.
>Rarity puts a hoof on your leg and leans in for a mock hug. “Anon here was being a dear and walking Sweetie Belle home when... When that THING attacked!” She pulls away and flails her forehooves around in a spectacle of theatrics. “Anon was so brave, he let it chase him so neither myself nor Sweetie Belle got hurt... I’m just so glad YOU’RE ok.” her acting lessons sure are paying off.
>As always the Applebitch isn’t buying. “Ah saw it! Ah didn’ see Anon... Ya sure YA weren’t mistaken Rarity?”
>The marshmallow unicorn narrows her eyes, “Quite, I owe Anon a great deal... Besides, with all the screaming and running around, it’s easy to see how one might have overlooked him.”

>Applejack shakes her head, “Dunno how ya keep gettin’ in tha middle ah these... But ah finally saw it.... Ah know what it looks like and errything.” She turns and begins to walk away. “Ah won’ let what happened ta Granny Smith’s home happen ta P0nyville.”
>You almost swear you see Rarity stick out her tongue as AJ and her mob head back to town.
>Another crisis averted.
>How much longer can you keep this up?
>”Rarity!” You ask, turning to the smiling mare. “...Sweetie Belle, is she?”
>Rarity motions to the still confused Fluttershy and Scootaloo, “She is perfectly fine dahling, thanks to you.... Just had to show some of my trademark generosity... Like I said dear.” She begins her walk back to town as she says with a sad voice, “I would give my very blood....”
>Huh... Why does that bring a tear to your eye? Why does that give you thoughts of slavery and servitude?
>But... She’s alive right?
>”Hey Scootaloo?” You say as you pass her and Fluttershy, “Too dangerous out there tonight, maybe you should crash here... If that’s ok with Fluttershy that is.”
>You don’t bother listening for a response and just head straight to your room.
>Sure enough....
>”So tell me great ancestor spirit... What now? I almost KILLED her!” You hiss in pure anger and hatred.
>It pulses and sighs, “You need to learn balance... Perhaps you should leave town for a few days. It’s time you learned about the Wyld from the Sleeping Bear...”