Title:           Recursive Dreams [AiE]
Author:          NicoDeimos
Pastebin link:   http://pastebin.com/7xzxeAuF
First Edit:      Thursday 24th of July 2014 02:12:57 PM CDT
Last Edit:       Last edit on: Thursday 15th of October 2015 08:08:07 PM CDT

1
 
>Hey Nonny, it's Pinkie.
>I just wanted to tell you I've missed you.
>Things haven't been the same since you left us.
>There's less joy without you around.
>Remember when you first got here, I threw you a big welcome party?
>You didn't really like it, but I just wanted to see you smile.
>I just wanted to make you happy.
>You eventually warmed up, though.
>I was glad for that.
>We got to hang out more.
>We told each other stupid jokes.
>We played silly pranks.
>We laughed together.
>It was hardest for me when you left, because you said I gave you something you haven't had in a long time.
>It was happiness.
>You were always so nice and thankful to me.
>You told me once that you'd be there for me when I needed you.
>I need you now, Nonny.
>But you aren't here...
 
2
 
>You awake with a start, cold sweat soaking through your clothes.
>Shaking your head, you try to rid yourself of the creeping dread and hopelessness enveloping you.
>It had only been two weeks since your departure.
>The recurring vision seemed as an omen, despite your best efforts to put it from your mind.
>The ruddy tent you were currently residing in felt constricting, enclosed, and suffocating.
>You made to exit for some fresh air, but the dingy flap lifted aside in a glow of indigo light.
>Princess Luna's head poked through the opening.
>"Anonymous? I heard a lamentation of your voice. Was it the dream again?"
>Shrugging your shoulders, you give her an exasperated look.
"Yeah. It's almost always the same every time."
>"Surely just brought on by anxiety," Luna gives you an assuring smile, "being away from the ones you care about, even for a short time, can be quite distressing. I should know..."
>You give her a pat on the withers.
"Thank you for your support, Luna. It's a shame you couldn't investigate this dream further for me."
>She sighs woefully, "'Tis a shame, truly; that this particular dream rejects my entry is a bizarre occurrence. I have yet before faced such a formidable challenge, even with you being of a different species."
>In other words, she had been able to enter your dreams before.
>It was a bit of an embarrassing affair, that she had done so in a particularly lewd dream involving herself and bananas.
>But that was neither here nor there.
>"Anonymous, now that you are awake, shall we continue the excavation?"
>Ah yes, the reason you were here.
>A group of researchers had discovered ruins of seemingly human design in the arctic north.
>Princess Celestia had requested your assistance, considering you were supposedly the only human to have entered Equestria.
>You respectfully accepted the task, but the journey had taken you far from Ponyville.
>The others, your friends, had remained behind as it was unclear how long this task would take.
 
3
 
"Yes, I think we can continue."
>You've been at these ruins for a few days now, the architecture was much similar to that of ancient human civilizations.
>Despite the similarity, however, you couldn't place exactly where these ruins came from.
>Shoddy, weather-worn stone carving with an opening above most structures that would suggest the space above was previously occupied by thatched roof that had since disintegrated in time.
>Damn, being around all these scientist ponies has been stimulating the analytic part of your brain.
>You shake your head once more, and follow Luna out into the icy morning air.
>Gusts of chill wind stir across the snow-laden landscape, a frozen wasteland beside the mountain housing the ruins.
>Through the encroaching cold, a thought comes to you.
"Princess Luna? Why did your sister send you along as well?"
>Her warm breath escapes in a soft mist as she sighs.
>"My primary duty is to assure your well-being and safe return. She knows how precious you are to your friends, and vise-versa."
"But surely you have more important matters to attend to in Canterlot?"
>Luna bows her head in thought, quiet for a moment.
>"While it's true I am helpful to alleviate my sister from some of the bureaucratic duties of our station, the most important task I partake can be done from anywhere on this planet."
>Tapping your chin in thought, you question further:
"What would that be?"
>Luna gives you a stern look of contempt.
>She answers curtly, "raising and lowering the moon."
"Oh. Right, sorry..."
>Each of you walk on in awkward silence.
 
>After a brief trek, you arrive at the base of the mountain, the shambling skeletal remains of buildings scattered along the outside.
>Ponies dressed in parkas gallop between the shelter of the broken walls as you and Luna walk among them.
>One such pony approaches breathlessly.
>"Princess Luna, Sir Anonymous, we found a strange contraption in one of the lower halls of the largest structure!"
 
4
 
>You and Luna share an eager look.
>"Let us proceed hastily, then!"
>Hurriedly, the two of you follow the pony and approach the largest piece of the ruins.
>It was reminiscent of a temple or cathedral of sorts, and had snaking tunnels leading underground.
>The walls were of cobbled stone, most of the rooms were empty of any tell-tale evidence of the previous occupants.
>As you race through the expansive corridors, you inquire about the finding.
"What kind of contraption is it, exactly?"
>The researcher pony shouts out excitedly, her voice echoing through the halls, "We have no idea! It seems to be mechanical in construction, but we haven't tested to see what it does yet! We wanted you two present for the initial run!"
>Run indeed, as this thing must have been pretty deep underground.
>Your group had been at a brisk pace for a while before the pony leading you screeched to a halt.
>She indicates a pair of large metal doors.
>It's always something ominous looking...
>"Through here is where we found the device. It doesn't radiate any sort of energy, yet, so we've assumed it's currently safe to approach."
"Thanks, that's very reassuring."
>You push open one side as Luna uses her magic on the other side.
>Her side opens first.
>Within, you finally see the contraption.
>A large metal ring lined with wires running to a number of consoles, each object being inspected by a research pony or two.
>Oh good, it's only slightly comparable to a horror video game.
>Surely nothing bad can happen with cute ponies around.
>Right?
>Luna steps forward cautiously.
>"This device... It seems to be the construction of a portal of sorts."
"Yeah, I think I've seen similar designs in fictional entertainment media. This is starting to look like some kinda bad crossover fanfiction or something..."
>Luna circles the ring, casting magic along itself and the wires.
>"Strange, the mirror worked specifically from magic but this seems to be entirely technological."
 
5
 
"Well, I'm sure it wouldn't be active in any case considering there's no telling how long it's been sitting here."
>You walk over to one of the consoles and place your hand on it.
"Good thing, too, this shit could have lead to something dangero-"
>Your hand slips down and knocks a lever out of place.
>A buzzing whir builds up as electrical energy is discharged within the ring.
"Oh. Shit. Whoops..."
>The research ponies scatter for the door with cries of terror, Luna shoots a disgruntled look at you.
>You shrug your shoulders innocently.
"Sorry! My hand slipped! All this dust and shit..."
>A growing rumble shakes the room, you find it hard to stand.
>You look to Luna who's also having difficulty staying steady.
>The rumbling and buzzing intensifies, Luna topples over landing with a thud in front of the device.
>"Oomph!"
>The fall seems to have dazed her, the energy building within the ring starts arching outward edging closer to Luna.
>You see the electrical bolts shooting outward and try to run to Luna, stumbling in the quake.
>A jolting shake trips you, slamming you chest-first into the ground.
"Augh!"
>The blow knocks the wind out of you, your vision blurs in pain as you gasp for air.
>The energy from the ring shoots out violently, marring the ground as it strikes near Luna.
>The intense shock shakes her out of the daze, she attempts to shield herself in a strained grimace but her magic fizzles out at the tip of her horn.
>Her face falls in despair as another powerful arch claws closer to her.
>"Ah! A-Anonymous!"
>She cries out looking to you, fear in her voice and desperation in her eyes.
>She needs you.
>A flash of light, you briefly see Pinkie as she was in your dream.
>She needs you, now.
>You clumsily jolt up and race for her.
>The vision is replaced by Luna, lying helpless on the floor.
>A sharp explosion erupts from the machine, a bolt of electricity archs toward Luna.
"No! Luna!"
>You dive out in front of her.
>The world spins into darkness.
 
6
 
>Nonny?
>It's Pinkie again.
>Luna said you're doing ok.
>But you won't come back.
>Everypony misses you, Nonny.
>We're waiting for you.
>I have a welcome back party planned that I know you'll love.
>I know you used to say my parties were childish.
>But I also know deep down you still liked them.
>They made you happy.
>I made you happy.
>And you made me happy, too.
>I want that happiness to come back.
>I want you to come back.
>Please come back...
 
7
 
>Your head swims groggily as you stir awake.
>The cold stone floor chilling your cheek.
>Your vision blurs tiredly as you open your eyes.
>"Anonymous?"
"Nuugh... Few more minutes..."
>You mumble as something shakes your shoulder.
>"Anonymous, please get up."
>You roll softly onto your back and look up, the ceiling blocked by Luna with worry in her face.
>"Anonymous, wake up. You are dreaming. It was an illusion of your mind."
>Hearing her words startles you into alert wakefulness.
"W-what? I- You... Didn't the device turn on?"
>Luna sighed in defeat.
>"Yes, Anonymous, the device did turn on."
>You sit up, grunting through an ache creeping across your body.
"You were... On the floor, the ring was expelling electricity..."
>"Yes, Anonymous."
"You couldn't use your magic, and the energy was getting closer."
>Luna nodded somberly.
"I tried to... stop it from hitting you. But what happened?"
>Luna looked down in resignation.
>"It seems as though nothing immediately recognizable happened."
>You give her a look.
"I mean were you hurt? Did I stop the energy from hitting you?"
>Luna put a hoof to her chin pensively.
>"Yes... Yes you did stop it, I mean. Why they would attempt to resuscitate now of all times... Oh!" she looks at you thankfully, "I do appreciate your concern, however!"
>You wave it off dismissively as you turn to look at the device.
"It was nothing, but an honor to keep you safe Your Highness. Has the contraption been turned off?"
>The thing sat quite inanimate and lifeless, but still held an air of foreboding.
>"It seemed to deactivate of it's own accord, after you so courageously protected me."
>You stand fully and move to approach it.
>"Ah, perhaps you shouldn't-"
>Reaching out a hand, you caress along the metal and wires of the ring.
"It's cold to the touch..."
>You turn your gaze back on Luna, stern interrogation in your voice.
"How long was I unconscious?"
>Luna stalled momentarily, pawing the ground with a hoof.
>"I'd say about a couple of hours."
 
8
 
"This thing's been off for a couple of hours and the room isn't full of researchers investigating what happened?"
>Incredulous disbelief seeped through your words.
>You couldn't believe an important find like this, still capable of being activated, wasn't already swamped by the researchers.
>As if on cue, a group of ponies garbed in white coats filed into the room with a buzzing drone of conversation.
>None of the ponies seemed to pay you or Luna any mind as they went back to observing the device and consoles.
"How... Peculiar."
>"Perhaps we should move elsewhere, I would like to examine you a bit more privately for any possible injury or trauma," Luna stated matter-of-factly.
>The other ponies seemed to blur together in their business, but you caught on to Luna's suggestion and nodded.
"Yeah, that might be best."
>It seemed oddly out of place, for a few reasons.
>Questions about what happened were already cluttering your thoughts.
>You wonder why you were left on the floor rather than taken to a first-aid station.
>Or why there wasn't a doctor pony already examining you for injury.
>Most importantly, Luna seemed distant and was acting strangely.
>You figure it might have just been the traumatic experience that put her into a state of shock, but she's untold millenia in age and spent one imprisoned in the desolate moon.
>Surely she's been through more trying times than a malfunctioning ancient device.
 
>You follow her through the hall, to a room set up with makeshift medical equipment.
>There was no pony around, neither doctor nor nurses.
>"Sit," Luna commanded, gesturing to a cot with a hoof.
>You do as she asks, anticipation growing.
"What are we gonna do on the cot?"
>You smirk and give her a sly wink.
>She ignores your remark as she focuses her concentration.
>Her horn glows indigo with magic light, which flows fluidly out and encases you.
>"Try not to mind the tickling feeling."
>Too late.
>A tingle courses through your body as she scans your vitals.
 
9
 
>A moment passes as Luna's magic courses through your body.
>The tingling dulled down, ebbing into a glowing warmth.
>It was starting to feel rather soothing.
>All too quickly, however, the moment was gone and the magic within subsided.
>It left behind an almost hollow feeling.
>You heave a not-so-relieved sigh.
"Fantasy fulfillment of you invasively penetrating my body aside, what's the diagnosis doc?"
>Luna's eyes were closed in deep thought over her apparent findings.
>"Nothing detectable so far. You seem to be at peak health."
>You rub your temples with a hand.
"Well, that's uh, comforting? At least I might not die any time soon."
>"Anonymous, please bear with me. You risked your life to save mine-"
>Luna's voice betrayed the slightest falter before regaining composure.
>"I promised my sister I would see no harm come to you."
>She stood regal and stoic.
>You give her a sly smirk and wiggle your fingers before her.
"And here I thought it was because I'm an adequate masseur with these babies."
>A tinge of red flushed Luna's cheeks as her mouth falls open to protest.
>"I- That- It-"
"-Would probably help to speak in full sentences. Your Highness."
>Luna's muzzle scrunched in frustration alongside the steadily growing glow encompassing the rest of her face.
>"That was a special circumstance we agreed to never mention again," she stated tersely.
>You give a half-hearted shrug.
"Hey, you know we both enjoyed it. But if that's really how you feel I won't bring it up again."
>Luna shook her head exasperated.
>"Well, I am sure you are exhausted after the day's events. There's a cot and furnace ready in the next room. Do get some rest."
"Sure thing."
>You give Luna a short bow and walk to the shabby wooden door of the makeshift medical room.
>Opening the door, you turn one last time to the princess.
"I know I can be a pain in your ass sometimes, but at least you know I'm willing to alleviate it."
>Closing the door did nothing to stop her voice.
>"ANONYMOUS!"
 
10
 
>Sleep did not come easy.
>After tossing and turning for an unknown length of time, in part because of apprehension at dreaming about Pinkie again, darkness enveloped you.
>Your eyes jolt open seemingly minutes later.
>Upon investigating your wrist watch, you notice it had been six hours.
>You dress groggily before making your way to the lab.
>Assuming that was where Luna wanted to meet up.
>You arrive on the scene, still occupied by science-y ponies in white coats.
>Approaching the one that looked least busy, you clear your throat to get her attention.
>The pony doesn't seem to notice.
>You give an audible cough.
>
>Throwing your hands up, you look around skeptically.
>You grab the pony's collar and spin her around.
"Oi, where's the princess?!"
>The pony stares blankly, as though through you.
"What the fuck?"
>"Anonymous!"
>Startled, you turn to see Luna entering the room.
>You breathe relieved and approach her.
"Hey, are all Canterlot scientists so professional?"
>You gesture toward the oblivious pony and notice she went promptly back to work like nothing just happened.
>Your hand falls in disbelief.
"What a cunt..."
>"Anonymous, please try to stay focused."
"On what, exactly?"
>You throw your arms up.
"None of this shit looks familiar to me, and I haven't had nearly enough experience to even start guessing. Hell, even these assholes studying the damn thing seem to be arbitrarily standing around!"
>"Remain calm and relax. I'm not commanding you, I'm asking. Please."
>Luna's mouth twitched, a small frown present.
"I- Yeah. Ok."
>You take a deep breath and exhale slowly.
"Sorry..."
>Her lips turned up briefly.
>"Thank you, Anonymous. Did Pinkie Pie appear in your dream once again?"
"Oh, no not this time. Wait, as the princess of the night and having power over dreams shouldn't you know that already?"
>Luna sighed and closed her eyes.
>"Contrary to what you may believe, I do not invade my subjects' dreams at a whim. I enter one's dreams to help when they are lost. To protect them."
 
11
 
>Some time had passed, you were currently enjoying breakfast in a mess hall thrown together in one of the larger rooms of the ruins.
>Apart from yourself there was only Luna.
>The tables around you completely empty.
"It's strange, but I think that electric blast had something to do with me not having a dream last night."
>Luna's ears perked up.
>"Oh? Please divulge your thoughts."
"I was almost certain I was going to have another dream. It's been happening every night now since a few days ago. I think when that shock hit me, it might have scrambled my mind in a way that blocks the dreams. Not exactly concrete, but I mean I woke up this morning and felt like I didn't sleep at all."
>Luna's stoic gaze had a glint of worry as her brow furrowed.
"That's... good, isn't it? I won't be plagued by nightmares anymore."
>You grin at realizing the unintentional pun.
"Aside from one particular night mare, but I rather enjoy being overcome by that one-"
>"Are they so terrible, Anonymous?" Luna cut in, her voice stern and expression serious, "Do they not give you pause to wonder the meaning behind them? Hold you no curiosity to resolve these dreams, rather than simply dismissing them at the aspect of their absence?"
>You blanch at her harsh tone.
"Luna, it's alright. They're just silly dreams that have been pestering me. Frankly, I am a bit glad to be rid of them."
>Her ears lowered at hearing your words.
>Her gaze falls, and she blinked.
>A glisten of light falls before her until it's life winks out in a patter against the table.
>"I'm sorry, Anonymous."
>Her voice barely audible, carried aloft to your ear by the finality behind the words.
 
12
 
>You give Luna a curious look.
"Are you... Alright princess?"
>She gives a small smile and looks into your eyes.
>"I'm fine, Anonymous. You have been quite thoughtful of my state. I wonder how you are doing."
>Shrugging, you lean back in your chair.
"To be honest, I'm not really sure. I still don't fully understand why Celestia would send me to investigate these ruins. I don't know why you'd agree to travel so far from home just to protect me. I don't even know how Twilight and the others could ever have befriended me."
>Luna leaned closer with a sigh.
>"It's because we care about you, and your knowledge and skills. You are a valued friend to us."
"But I'm just a-"
>"Truly great person," Luna interrupts, "one who has shown to be honest, loyal, kind, generous. One who was ripped from their world and dropped into alien lands, yet still find it within to laugh and make friends."
>You nod somberly at her words.
>"You have demonstrated your willingness to help friends in need, selflessness in the face of danger to protect others-"
"Alright, alright."
>Chuckling, you wave your hands.
"Laying it on so thick will only fuel my ego."
>Luna's head snapped up.
>"Oh? I thought you enjoyed a thick lay?"
>She gave a mischievous smirk.
>You gasp audibly at her snide remark.
"Your highness?!"
>The tone you used was meant to be admonishing, but the effect was diminished by the grin you couldn't contain.
>"I do not recall a rule stating you are the only one allowed to have fun."
>Her snout wrinkled as she stuck her tongue out.
"Oh yeah? Well-"
>Your witty retort was cut short as the ground beneath began to shake.
"What the hell? Is that the machine?"
>Luna's eyes opened wide as worry flashed across her features.
>"No. Anonymous, please, promise me you will avoid the darkness!"
>The tables and chairs around you clatter loudly.
"What? What do you mean?"
>"There's no time to explain, please just don't fall to the same fate!"
>Her last words faded as she disappeared in a blue flash.
 
13
 
>You were alone.
>The shaking grew stronger, toppling chairs over.
>Standing up, you look around for the way out.
>Just across the room, the door stood ajar.
>You begin walking toward it, but a violent lurch staggers you.
>Shaking yourself into focus, you continue forward.
>A chill wind washes through the room, several torches flicker out.
>You reach the door and grab a nearby torch.
>The hall outside is already enveloped in a dense darkness.
"What the hell was she talking about?"
>You wonder aloud as you look down either path.
>Nothing is visible outside the faint glow of the torch.
>Trying by memory, you head left in belief it will lead you to the surface.
"Fuck the machine, and fuck this place. I wanna know what's going on. Better in the safety of an open snowfield."
>Slowly, you make your way forward.
>You dart your eyes between the ground and the endless void before you.
>Minutes go by and still no sight of an exit.
>You haven't even seen another door in this hallway.
"What the fuck is going on... I swear this was the way out. Huh?!"
>The soft sound of sobbing ahead stops you in your tracks.
>You slowly creep forward, apprehension building.
>The sobs steadily grow louder.
>Out of the darkness, the figure of a sitting pony materializes as it enters the field of light.
>It is facing away from you.
"Hello? Are you alright?"
>You steadily approach, getting ready to flee back if you must.
>"I don't like this... I d-don't like the dark... Please. Save me."
>Moving around, you notice it was the pony that was ignoring you earlier.
"Hey, it's ok. I'm here, I brought light see!"
>You thrust the torch out.
>The pony starts crying in utter distress.
>"No... no, no, no... it won't stay away... it's coming..."
"Listen, there's nothing out there. Everything will be fine."
>Your attempts to assure her fall on deaf ears.
>You reach a hand out to give her confidence.
>"Ahh!" she cries out in fear.
>Jolting up, she bolts down the path you came from.
 
14
 
"What the fuck..."
>Shaking your head, you turn back to your journey.
>The walls appear to be closing in, the emptiness in front and behind you emphasizing the closeness inside the hallway.
>You walk on within the featureless stone bricks surrounding you.
>A sharp scream echos out behind you.
>Jolting around, a chill crawls along your flesh as the scream cuts off mutely.
"H-hello?!"
>Yelling out, you hope for an answer.
>You lift your torch attempting to spread the light.
>A wisp of a dark smoke-like substance drifts into the faded edge of light before you.
>You clear your throat.
"Are you still there?!"
>The smoky substance straightens, snaking toward you.
>A raspy noise fills the air around you, vibrating through your mind.
>It sharpens into a discernible sound.
>"Yes"
>You tumble back in shock just as the smoky tentacle leaped toward you.
>The torch clatters to the ground, fire flickering.
>Within the dimming light, a larger figure loomed closer.
>As you stare in an attempt to see what it was, it's middle parted in tendrils.
>It was smiling.
>
>You crawl backward trying to get away, the tingling of fear overcoming your ability to move.
>The last bit of light from the torch extinguishes.
>The darkness envelopes you.
>You turn as you crawl, trying to escape.
>As you gain momentum, you try to pick yourself up.
>Your hand slips, your chest hits the cobbled stone floor knocking the breath out of your lungs.
>A cough escapes your mouth, spittle wetting your lip.
>In a staggered effort, you push yourself up onto your feet.
>A cold feeling touches along your back and squirms up toward your neck.
>Almost falling forward, you stumble into an awkward run.
>A rumbling sound behind you trails along.
>You push yourself, edging closer to a wall.
>You throw your hand out, running your fingers along smooth stone bricks trying and hoping for an exit.
>Your fingers hit wood, you almost trip at the sharp pain.
>You throw yourself at the door to open it before slamming it closed behind you.
 
15
 
>The door shudders as you stumble back into the dark room.
>You wait a moment until the noise passes.
>Looking around, you can't make out more than shadows around you.
>Feeling around with outstretched hands, you make your way around trying to find anything.
>Your hand bumps into a wall opposite where you entered, you walk along using it to guide you.
>Another door grazes your splayed fingers.
>You reach down to turn the knob and open the door slowly.
>Peering through, you notice a light across the way.
>A dim blue glow faintly reflects off the smooth stone walls of a thin hallway.
"Great, another fucking hallway."
>Your protest echos softly, you push the door fully open and move toward the light at the other end.
>The only other door, the light seems to filter in from underneath.
>Hope ebbs through you as your pace quickens.
>The hall seems to stretch longer, dragging the light away.
>You break into a run, fearing to lose your only salvation.
>A loud crack behind you sounds of wood being splintered.
>No time to look behind, the light is escaping.
>Muffled breathing getting heavier.
>The walls appear to be closing in.
>The sound of your own footfalls reverberate around you.
>The door in the room behind you erupts in a clattering cacophony.
>The darkness is coming.
>It knows where you are.
>You need the light.
>Abandoning reason, your mind jumps to your only defense.
>A rumbling noise grows loud behind you.
>The door is so close.
>A chill grips one of your legs.
>Tendrils of cold claw up your flesh.
>You nearly trip, with a great heave you throw yourself forward.
>You reach out in need.
>Your fingers hit wood, a sharp pain shoots through your hand before your body hits the floor.
>Scrambling into a crouch, the light shines just bright enough to make out the knob.
>Reaching up to turn it, you fall forward trying to get inside.
>The door flies open, your chest hits the ground across the frame.
>Pushing your head up, you see the princess of the night looking at you in shock.
"Luna! Help!"
 
16
 
>Luna looks into the hallway you burst from.
>You see her face contort in terror.
"Luna! Please!"
>You cry out as the icy grip around your leg tightens.
>You feel your body being jerked back into the dark abyss.
>You throw your arms out and grab the door frame just as the pull almost jolted you out of the room.
>Arms tense, your shoulders strain at keeping you in the light.
>You cast another look at Luna, still frozen in place.
"Please, Luna! Don't let it get me!"
>She shakes her head, snapping out of her stupor.
>She takes sight of you, barely clinging for your life.
>"A-Anonymous?!"
>She looks back into the darkness, a fierce look crosses her face as her eyes alight in magic.
>Throwing her head forward, energy builds along her horn with a buzz before zapping out with thunderous recoil.
>You tuck your head in as best you can, the bright flash nearly blinding you.
>Warmth spreads across your back as the beam flies past you.
>The hall ignites, awash with residual magic.
>You look back as a roar fills your ears.
>As the light subsides, a smoky trail falls away leading into the other room.
>A moment passes, you stand up and slam the door closed.
>You heave ragged breaths, exhausted from the sprint and near-death you endured.
"Whew... that was... too close."
>Turning to face the room, you spot Luna moving toward another door.
"Wait- just wait a minute!"
>You yell out and move toward her.
"Look, I appreciate you saving my life but you'll have to pardon my curiosity here; where the fuck did you go?! Where were you when that 'thing' showed up?!"
>Luna closed her eyes
>"Anonymous-"
"A pony died, your majesty! I almost died!"
>You spat out in anguish.
>"Anonymous, please calm down."
>Her eyes opened, worry reflected within.
"How can I calm down?! Some hellish monster just chased me halfway across these ruins, and the one pony that could protect me up and fucked off!"
>Luna looks down, pawing the ground nervously with a forehoof.
 
17
 
>"I apologize, Anonymous. There was something else I needed to tend to, an urgent matter regarding what happened."
>Luna turned her head away, looking toward the door she was walking to.
>You breathe deep for a bit, exhaling your stress.
"Right, the researchers. Did you get them out?"
>"No... I wasn't referring to the researchers."
>You give her a shocked look.
"Well, we have to go get them."
>You move to the door, but Luna steps in the way.
>"No, Anonymous. It is too dangerous."
"Luna?! Those are your subjects down there. They could be in danger."
>Luna shakes her head.
>"My duty right now is to protect you."
>With a snort, you sneer.
"Great job at that, considering I almost died."
>"Anonymous!"
>You sigh.
"Well, I'm safe now. We need to go save the other ponies."
>"Your empathy is admirable, Anonymous, but I must get you to safety," Luna intoned with grave urgency.
"And what of your subjects? You'd readily leave them behind for my well-being?"
>A hurt look overtook Luna's features.
>"As much as it pains me to admit, they are lost. I can do nothing more for them."
"We have to try!"
>You exclaim in frustration.
>"I am trying!" Luna responded, "Trying to protect you! You saved my life earlier. You showed me then as you do now that you care for us ponies."
>A tear trails down Luna's cheek, splashing quietly on the ground.
>"I don't want to lose you, Anonymous..."
>Regret builds up within you.
>At hurting Luna.
>At not being able to save the other ponies.
>You build up your courage and place a hand on Luna's withers, trying to comfort her.
"Alright. If- if you really think so, I'll go with your judgement."
>She gives you a relieved look.
>"Now we just have to get past the darkness. I might be able to get you out of here if we can get out of the ruins."
 
 
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"What was it, then? Did it come from that machine?"
>Luna shakes her head.
>"No, the machine has nothing to do with this."
>You stare at her dumb-founded.
"Then where could that thing have come from?"
>"It is..."
>She struggles for a moment, finally looking you in the eyes.
>A strong sense of resolve emanates from her being.
>"It is a manifestation of the corruption that overtook me a millennium ago. I foolishly did not believe it would return, but-"
>She appears to be concentrating on her memories.
>"Tell me, Anonymous, what do you remember from before our trip here?"
>Startled by the odd question, you think for a minute.
"I'm not quite sure... Everything seems hazy just before-"
>"Just before you awoke yesterday morning?"
"Yeah. How did you know?"
>She shakes off your question.
>"What can you remember from before then?"
>You pause once again.
"I remember... the dreams. With Pinkie Pie. They felt like she was reaching out to me. From a vast distance."
>"Yes, go on," Luna urged.
"And I remember-"
>A forgotten memory strikes you.
"A hospital?! There was... something going on back at Ponyville. Ponies were running and screaming. I went with my friends to investigate, but all I remember is darkness. Next thing I knew, I was in a hospital. Pinkie was there."
>You lightly chuckle at remembering.
"I remember she thought I was dead. I told her 'Pinkie, I'm fine' but I felt tired. I think I fell asleep."
>"And then you woke up here?"
"Yeah. It's strange, now that I think about it. Almost as if I was-"
>"Dreaming," Luna finished pensively.
"But if I am dreaming, how are you here?"
>Luna stood regally.
>"I am here because you are dreaming.
 
19
 
>It all came crashing down, crushing you under the weight of reality.
>Suddenly, everything made sense in a way only dream logic would allow.
>The whole trip out here despite your lack of experience, the evidence of human activity, the ruins themselves, ponies ignoring your presence, even the strange machine now seems like something imagined from a fevered mind.
>After the earthquake, the unending halls, walls closing in, the unreachable door; all things reminiscent of a nightmare.
>You fall to your knees and stare at Luna blankly.
>"I would believe this has come as quite a shock. I do, however, need you to stay focused if I am to bring you back."
>Luna's tone was soft, but commanding.
>She was here to protect you, after all.
"This whole time... I've been asleep?"
>"Unconscious, rather. The disturbance in Ponyville proved to be a resurgence of the corruption. We believe it has taken possession of you."
"So even if I escape from it in this dream realm, it might still be inside me?"
>Luna looked uncertain.
>"My sister and I arrived as hastily as we could, bringing top medical practitioners from Canterlot. We are not yet sure of how deeply the corruption holds you, but I promise we will do our best to expel it."
>Curiosity overtakes you.
"But... how did it get into me in the first place?"
>"Please take no offense to this. We believe that, as a human, your being is a highly suitable vessel. From what you've discussed with Twilight Sparkle, humanity at it's core is easily corruptible. Take refuge, Anonymous, that you have proven to be pure of heart and considerate in intentions. I believe that you can overcome. I believe in you."
>You stand up, bolstered by Luna's words.
"And my visions of Pinkie Pie?"
>Luna rolls her eyes.
>"That one is a strange pony. I think that her innate bizarre connection to magic has lent itself to her being able to communicate with you in your current state."
 
20
 
>You give a light laugh.
"Now that you mention it, that makes sense. I guess."
>Looking around, the dimly lit room gives no evidence of where you are at in the ruins.
"So, how do we get out of here?"
>Luna shrugs.
>"This is the working of your subconscious imagination. How would you think we should get out of here?"
>You give Luna a suspicious look.
"Well, I don't suppose you could teleport us out?"
>She shakes her head in response.
>"I have limited power right now, considering the presence of corruption. Think Anonymous! You are aware that this is a dream. You are lucid!"
>You slap a hand to your face.
"Right... Not counting possible nightmare influence, I could pretty much do anything."
>Luna gives you a curious look.
>"And what comes to mind?"
>You close your eyes and think.
"Right now? I was just wondering what massaging your rear would feel like if you were human..."
>Opening your eyes, you notice Luna was gone.
>Who stood in her place currently was a rather buxom, yet regal woman of elegant beauty with flowing dark hair specked with twinkling white dots.
>And she was nude.
>You stare for a moment at the bountiful breasts before you, before blanching at the sight and looking away.
"Ew, no hooves..."
>"Anonymous! Now isn't the best time for games!"
"Sorry, couldn't control my urges."
>Luna was back in pony form.
>You shudder, reminding yourself not to do that again.
>Refocusing your thoughts, an idea springs to mind.
"Ok, how about this: that door-"
>You indicate the one Luna was about to use earlier.
"-will lead us straight to the outside."
>You walk over to it.
>Turning the knob, you throw it open and look out expectantly.
>Darkness stretches deep in front of you.
"Shit, it's dark. Wish I had a flashli- oh, hey."
>Your hand hefts the weight of a heavy-duty flashlight.
>Convenient.
>You point the beam into the darkness.
>It goes on into nothingness in all directions.
 
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"Whelp. This is disheartening."
>Closing the door, you turn to Luna.
>"Perhaps that was unrealistically hopeful. Try again with something grounded in possibility."
"Alright. Instead... A staircase leading up?"
>You open the door and shine the light forward.
>The beam is met by stone steps.
"Fuck yeah! Time to get out of here."
>Luna smiles at your exuberance.
>You both exit the room and make your way up.
>"Now where will these stairs lead us?"
>Inhaling deeply, you consider her question.
"I wouldn't mind them leading outside, but keeping it realistic I'm thinking a straight hallway."
>You pause in thought.
"A short, straight hallway. Well-lit. One door on the opposite side, that will lead out of these damn ruins."
>Luna nods satisfied.
>"Very good. When will we be reaching the top?"
"Uh... Right now?"
>The beam from your flashlight connects with a strong glow on horizontal ceiling a little further ahead.
"A-ha! Almost free."
>The stairs beneath you begin to shake.
"Shit! Not this time, fucker! Right Luna, haha?"
>Looking at Luna, her face fills with fear.
>"I must go, Anonymous. I'm sorry. I am too susceptible to the corruption."
>Her eyes light up with magic, she begins fading out of your dream.
>Her last word echos the despair within your mind.
>"Run!"
 
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>Your pace quickens, you climb the stairs haphazardly.
>Nearly tripping, you stumble to the top and turn around.
>Shining the beam back down, the smoky substance rises quickly.
>Thinking quick, you imagine a wall of steel wedged tightly in front of the monstrous creature.
>It appears, blocking the danger.
"Yes!"
>The sound of creaking metal precedes the wall you just imagined bending.
>A dark tendril snaps through with a metallic pop, then the whole wall caves in explosively.
>The smoky darkness rushes past the debris.
"Fuck!"
>You turn and run, the hallway appearing longer than you had hoped.
>The lights on the walls- there were no lights.
>You were surrounded by darkness once again.
>At least you had your flashlight.
>You point it forward, the beam flickers and dies.
>You throw it aside and focus on running straight and steady to avoid hitting a wall.
>The darkness around you feels heavy and cold, suppressing your senses.
>Then you see, just in front of you, a light shining in the darkness.
>A faint sliver, once more something to grasp for and hold on to in the bleak emptiness.
>Deep down, you hoped it was Luna coming back to rescue you from this nightmare.
>In a sprinting stride, you focus solely on getting to that light.
>The visceral sounds of encroaching hunger behind you growing in a gruesome crescendo.
>You reach out to the mute black with a hand, seeing it silhouetted by the gradually growing glow.
>You collide with a hard surface, feel around and find a knob shape.
>Twisting desperately and mustering your strength, the door doesn't budge.
>A knock echoes from the other side, growing louder with each resounding strike.
"Luna! Please save me!" you cry out.
>The knob in your hand turns of its own accord, the door swings in knocking you back.
>A brilliant light floods into the hall, the silhouette of a pony standing in the frame.
>The pony looks down at you, then turns its attention deeper into the hall.
 
23
 
>Hearing a jarring scream, you turn to look around.
>A twisted face made of shadows recedes back with a visage of pain as the bright light trails along following.
>You look back to the pony in the doorway and see it smile warmly.
>A soft comforting voice speaks seemingly from within your mind
>"You are safe now. Return home. Your friends await."
>The pony disappears in a blinding flash, causing you to cover your eyes with an arm.
>Standing back up, you notice the pony you saw was completely gone.
>You move through the open doorway and into the light.
>When your eyes finish adjusting, you notice the snow and cold air and realize you're back outside in the arctic north.
>No sooner had you wondered where Luna was that an indigo flash erupted beside you.
>Startled, you step away and watch cautiously as the light fades and Luna materializes.
>She notices you and gasps.
>"Anonymous, thank goodness you made it!" she exclaims as she rushes forward and wraps you tightly with her forelegs.
>"I thought I might have lost-"
>Returning the embrace, you silence her worries.
"You didn't, Luna. Thanks for coming back for me. Now let's get out of my mind."
>Luna nuzzles into your shoulder and you hear the slightest audible sob.
>Energy shines from her horn and crackles around the two of you.
>In another flash of indigo, you feel your body pulled into some inter-dimensional nothingness.
>The weight of Luna's body beside your own evaporates and you are once again left alone with a strange sense of fluidity flowing along your body.
>The moment passes and you feel yourself laying down, oddly warm and cozy.
>Your eyes had closed apparently, you open them to see a frizzy pink blob above you.
>"N-nonny?"
>The pink blurry thing descended upon you, engulfing you in a tight squeeze and causing your heart to leap in your chest as it consumed you.
"Hi ponka." you utter out in a muffle as your head was swallowed into the pink fuzz.
 
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