Origins of Cyberhoof

Finaly broken up into 2 chapters and ready (i hope) for public viewing.

Just the story of my OC pony and how I think he would fit into the world of Equestria.

part 1: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-iXYkdPYrAFKtx0iuLlo3iL0En811yeQyLsKdt8OCTg/edit?hl=en_US

Part 2: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J1c3OHx6effJ5VaVxm03TDXfG33kl4qqrMfEct4aoS0/edit?hl=en_US

Edited by Luprony - Links = Evil.

Origins of Cyberhoof

By Kenji T.​

Once upon a time, in the magical land of Equestria, technology once coexisted along side magic. However, technology would soon be phased out entirely. Magic in Equestria was getting more advanced, and anything that could be done with magic was far better than anything that could be accomplished with technology. Why fly with loud bulky machines when a levitation spell worked far better? Why speed across the land in a motorized carriage when there were spells that could instantly move you to your destination in the blink of an eye? So for thousands of years, technology became fuel for ponytale and bedtime stories for little colts and fillies much like magic is in our world.

For one little unicorn, the stories were more then ponytale and legend, they were real to him. The little unicorn colt would sit in his room reading stories of machines made for both one single purpose and those made to look like ponies for multiple tasks. Each story he read put a smile on his face, and some he even read multiple times in a single week. Back then, he went by the name Dusk Mane, named after the dark colors he sported in his coat and mane. A Dark gray coat, and a two tone mane and tail of black and dark red.

The little colts parents did not agree with their sons interest, hoping that one day he would become a unicorn of great power, for you see, his parents were both gifted with powerful magics, and as a result, he was as well. On more than one occasion the little colt would try levitating small objects to help his parents, only for that item to be hurled across the room, leaving a hole in several walls before imbedding itself in a tree or rock someplace. Nopony was ever hurt, but the power he held in his small horn was obvious to anypony who ever had a cup or broom fly through one wall and out the other side.

His parents hoped that he could gain some control over his magic if he attended Celestias school for gifted unicorns. Dusk Mane was happy to have the chance to learn how to control his power, but still longed for the days he would be able to harness the power of technology. The princess herself heard about the young colts power, and requested an interview with him after the entrance exam. So with the entrance exam a few weeks away, Dusk Mane continued his normal routine, going to school, reading his books and now thinking of a way to impress the teachers he would have to meet with for the exam.

This is where our story truly begins. For the events leading Dusk Mane down the path toward technology and his eventual transformation into the stallion he is today, begin here.






Dusk Mane stepped out into the playground of the school he attended in Canterlot. The teacher releasing the class for recess. As usual, Dusk would go sit under the big tree in the school yard and read one of his many stories he'd keep with him during school. The few friends he had at school all played and left him to read. The little colt was a good ways into what he was reading when he noticed somepony approaching him. He looked up only to see it was the school bullies. Two larger colts who'd been held back a few times. One was a light blue colt with a mane and tail a few shades lighter than his coat. The other was a brown color with an even darker mane and tail. Both of them standing over Dusk Mane, as one kicked the book out from where it had been sitting.

“Look at the little blank flank, sitting reading one of his foal stories like a little nerd.” One said with a laugh.

Dusk Mane could only cower in fear in the shadow of the two larger colts.

“I heard the little twerp is going to Celestias school. The little blank flank and I will be competing for the last spot on the list.” The older colt said, getting closer to look Dusk Mane in the eyes. “you better not mess this up for me blanky, or you're going to pay!”

Dusk Mane gathered what courage he could and was about to speak when the voice of a young filly came from behind the two bullies. “Hey! Leave him alone!” The little yellow earth pony yelled, her eyes locked on the bullies and in a fighting stance, ready to fight off the two. Dusk Mane looked upon his friend Diamond Harmony as if she was Celestia herself, her orange mane gently blowing in the spring breeze. He knew the little filly, who was no older than he was, couldn't fend off the two brutes, but the simple act of standing up to them meant the world to him. This gave Dusk all the courage he needed to move to stand next to his friend, taking a fighting pose along side her.

“Look at that, the two little blank flanks wanna fight” The brown earth pony said.

“We don't have time to play with little fillies like you” The blue unicorn said. “But remember, you mess this up for me, and you'll pay for it.” He threatened before turning to walk away with his friend.

Dusk held his ground until the two were far enough away, and as his guard was let down, he fell to the ground shaking a bit. “You alright there?” The earth pony asked, putting a hoof on his shoulder.

“Yeah, thanks for coming to save me, Diamond. I'd never fought before, I'd probably be the first to go down.” Dusk said, looking around for his book.

“Well yeah” The words from the earth pony struck Dusk deep. “But don't worry, you know I'll always be there to help you.” At that, Dusk gave her a smile. “Want me to stick next to you from now on?”

Dusk shook his head, picking up his book with his magic before setting it down on the ground, open to the page he was on before the bullies showed up. “I cant ask you to do that, I don't want to keep you from having fun.”

The little filly stamped her hoof into the grass. “Then I'll stay here anyways, since you cant 'ask' me to.” She said with a smile as she took a seat next to her friend, looking down at the book he was reading. The two enjoyed the rest of their recess, though Dusk still felt guilty that his friend missed out on playing with her other friends. Still, it was nice to have some company under the tree as he read.


The weeks passed quickly as Dusk spent more time around Diamond, just in case the bullies tried something new. Eventually the day of the exam was here, and Dusk had just the thing to impress them. He stepped out to the front of the classroom, judging eyes on him the entire time. Dusk took in a breath and let it out, clearing his mind so he could focus. With eyes closed he began to focus his magic. The room went completely black except for the ponies in the room. From the void of darkness, images of other planets began to appear. The room became a show of stars and planets nopony had ever seen. Dusk new this was enough to impress the judges, but for him, it wasn't enough. Sure ponies of great magic could pull off an illusion spell such as this, but Dusk wanted to put his own spin on it. The view of the cosmos quickly rushed toward a planet like the view from a meteor coming down upon it. However this merely started the tour of the planet ruled by technology. Huge buildings of steel all lit up from within. Great neon signs, with words not known to the ponies, lined some of the buildings. Machines flew through the air, and some moving along the ground. This was a world from one of Dusks stories, the very same story that got him interested in technology in the first place. After a few moments of touring this planet, the images stopped, and the room returned to normal. Dusk looked up to the ponies, who were obviously awestruck at what they had just witnessed.

A single clopping broke the silence as Dusk turned to see Celestia at the door to the room, elegantly clopping her hoof against the class room floor. “Bravo young one.” Celestia said as Dusk quickly bowed to her. “You must be the young prodigy I have been hearing about, Dusk Mane was it?”

Dusk could only nod, not finding words that he felt fitting for a conversation with the princess.

“Please rise, There is much we need to discuss.” Celestia said as she turned to leave the room.

Dusk nodded and raised his head only to find he was lagging behind. He rushed to catch up with the princess, not wanting to disappoint her.

The two walked down the halls of the school. The great alicorn towering over the young colt. “You're parents tell me you have been having trouble controlling your magic. Is that correct?” Celestia asked, her voice as regal as ever.

“Um, yes, your highness. That's right.” Dusk replied, nearly tripping over his very words. “I've been trying to practice, but...”

“Is something the matter young Dusk?” Celestia asked, seeing the young colt lower his head at his own words.

“Well, the thing is, I know I have a lot of magic, and I want my parents to be proud of me, but I don't know if I want magic to be my entire life.” Dusk said, looking up at the princess. “What I really want to learn about is technology.” He said, his mind going to one of his stories. “Great machines flying through the skies. Ponies who are themselves one with technology as a unicorn is one with their magic.” He continued. “Huge machines that could harness the power of the sun to fuel life for a millennia. I've always wanted to see stuff like that in Equestria. But my parents don't like that idea.” He let out a sigh. “I just once want to make them proud of me.”

“I can see you're very passionate about your interest young one. And I believe you should pursue it to the best of your abilities.” the princess said with a warm smile. “But you still need to learn to control your magic. It wont be long before somepony is hurt by a flying broom handle. I would like the chance to teach you how to control your magic, you can stay here in Canterlot as my personal protege.

The princess' words confused the little colt, and he shook his head as if he'd slipped off into some fantasy world and wanted to wake from it. “I'm sorry, I don't think I heard that right.”

“You have a great ability Dusk, and I want you to be my apprentice. You'll be given you're own personal study here in Canterlot where I will teach you everything you need to know become a great unicorn.” Celestia said with another warm smile.

Dusk struggled to put words together into a coherent sentence. “uh... I mean... I would um... if that... um.... sure?”

“Wonderful. We'll begin once you're regular schooling is over for the summer.”

“Thank you princess, I promise I wont disappoint you.” Dusk said, happy to get the chance to spend time with the ruler of all of Equestria. Deep down through, it was just one more pony to try and not disappoint. And if there were any ponies in the world he wouldn't want to disappoint, it was the princess and his own parents. The best he could hope for was not messing up entirely and getting himself kicked out.



The next day, after school had been let out, Dusk was walking home, hopping to catch up on some reading he'd missed out on while at his entrance exam. His mind wandered to one of the worlds in his story, causing him to trip over his own hoof. He cringed and rubbed his head with his hoof. “Got to learn to stop doing that while walking.” He said, trying to get back to his hooves.

As he got up, he heard somepony come up from behind him. “Well if it isn't the little blank flank” Dusk recognized the voice of the bullies who'd pushed him around all school year.

“I told you if you did anything to mess up my chances of getting into Celestias school you'd pay for it.” The blue unicorn said. “And now I find out you're going to be Celestias personal assistant?”

Dusk had had just about enough of their torment and he was ready to finally fight back. Getting to his hooves, he looked the two bullies in the eyes. “I cant help that I'm better than you are, though in your case it's not that difficult.”

The blue unicorn reared up on his hind legs and came back down, striking Dusk across the face with his horn. Dusk fell back, feeling a sharp pain over his right eye. He couldn't worry about the pain now, he had to defend himself. Keeping his eye closed, he got to his hooves only to be knocked down by the brown earth pony.

“Hold him down, I want to break his horn off.” The blue unicorn said, moving toward Dusks head. The brown earth pony keeping his hooves on Dusk, holding him to the ground.

The Unicorn used his magic to levitate a rock near Dusks head, placing it under the base of his horn. Dusk had to think quickly. Something to scare them off. Fire! Something to put some distance between him and them. A push spell. Dusk began to concentrate as he began casting, seeing the larger unicorn lift his hoof into the air, Dusk put as much power behind the spell as he could. A flash of light, a release of magical energy unlike the world had ever seen. The area around Dusk was bathed in flames, scorching trees, setting fire to grass, and melting steel.

The power released was enough to catch the attention of the princess who was enjoying her lunch at the time. She peered out of her window just in time to see a large dome of magical energy dissipate into nothing.

Dusk opened his good eye, he took a few looks around, only seeing ash and flame for some distance radiating out from his location. No sign of the bullies around. His mind racing. The princess would never accept him into her school now that hes done so much damage. And what had happened to the bullies, did.... did he... He shook his head. He couldn't have, but there was no one around. His mind trying to think what to do now. If he really did do what he feared, no doubt the guards would arrest him and throw him in prison, or banish him. One word kept crossing his mind as he thought about this... “Run”. His legs obeying his only instinct. As he turned to run away, his hoof hit something on the ground. He looked down to see what it was and saw something he feared more than imprisonment, banishment and death itself. His horn, broken off over half way. Dusk held back tears for now, leaning down to pick up his horn in his mouth and galloped off.


Dusk new once the guards figured out who scorched a sizable chunk of the city, they could come looking for him at his home, so he had little time. He ran into his house, his parents still away at work. He gathered a few supplied into his saddle bags including his horn. Lastly he picked up a coat he wore during the winter and threw it over himself, pulling the hood over his head to hide his broken horn. Dusk picked up his saddle bags and made for the exit, unsure where he would go, what he would do when he got there. All he knew is he had to run away or face the guards, or even Celestia herself. He decided for now, he would just run and hide, and after locking the door to his home as best he could with the key in his mouth, he turned and ran toward a place known as the Everfree forest.

Once deep enough into the forest, dusk sat down against one of the trees. He opened his saddle bag and retrieved some bandages and other medical supplied. He opened a bottle of disinfectant and poured a bit onto a small cloth before pressing it to his injured eye. His adrenaline dulling the pain a bit, but it was still very painful. Dusk held back a cry of pain before doing his best to put a bandage over his eye so it could heal. Finally he reached up with a hoof to feel for his horn, or what was left of it. He felt a sharp jagged edge where the majority of it had broken off and his eyes filled with tears. Dusk wiped his tears away, focusing as he had done with his magic many times before. He could feel power growing in what was left of his horn, but only got a few sparks of energy, not the display he showed for the judges at his exam. It wasn't a total loss however, as the small sparks gave him some hope of training his magic from the ground up. After all, he'd heard that when a unicorns horn breaks, they lose all of their magic. Still... the lose of so much magic was enough to demoralize him.


Dusk mane slowly made his way through the Everfree forest, searching for.... something, anything he could use to survive the nights in Everfree. Dusk eventually came across a river, too wide to cross with out a bridge. Looking both directions down the river, he saw nothing he could use to cross. He turned to head the other way, continuing along a path he convinced himself was there. He eventually found his way to a rickety bridge spanning a deep void filled with fog that hid was was below. On the other side, he saw a building. The sight was welcome, despite its age, it was shelter he could use for the night. Dusk looked over the bridge, it looked as if it would snap under its own weight, but he had no other option, continue on, or stay out in the open till morning.

Dusk placed a hoof on the bridge, putting some weight on it. Then another, and another. Slowly, he made his way across the bridge. Half way across the bridge however, he heard a snap, and another. “His mind worked fast, turn back or run, turn back or run.” The same instinct as before kicked in. “Run” But before he could, the bridge snapped at the furthest end, sending dusk plunging into the darkness. Teared streamed from Dusks eyes as he fell into the abyss. Knowing this was the end for him, his mind went to his friend Diamond. The one true friend he really had in this world. He wanted to see her again, he'd give anything to see her one last time. He closed his eyes, remembering her voice, her face, and waited.

SPLASH!

Dusks body hurt all over, but he was alive, and all the more thankful. He opened his eyes, expecting darkness in the water he'd landed in, but in the distance he saw something, a faint light. This was hardly the time to be curious, but he couldn't help himself. The light was unlike anything he'd seen before. Not like a torch light, or a lantern he'd seen all around town. It was a stable light like that of a glowing unicorns horn, but this one pulsed on and off in a regular pattern. He swam as best he could to the surface of the water to take a breath, before struggling his way back down toward the small light. As he approached the light, he noticed it was placed over a steel door that hung open a bit. With enough breath, Dusk pushed open the door as best he could, revealing a small room beyond and another, smaller light inside. This one however was green, and didn't pulsate like the other. Dusk swam back up for another breath of air before going back to inspect the light inside the dark room.

This small light was against the wall, half way up from the ceiling and protruding out a bit. Dusk touched the small light that pressed into the wall a bit. The door behind him shut fast, locking dusk in the room. With no air, Dusk began to panic, trying to open the door. Lights came on in the small room that was big enough for a full grown pony to fit inside. A rumble of machinery came from the walls around him, a sound he didn't recognize as written stories do little to describe sounds. Pockets of air formed at the top of the room and Dusk moved to take in a much needed breath of air. The water emptied from the room, leaving the little colt cold and shivering. He pulled a cloth from his saddle bags, which he managed to hold onto during his fall, and used it to dry himself off a bit. As he attempted to try off, a strong wind circled around him. The air was warm, a welcome feeling as the blowers dried him off as best they could. The second door finally opened into darkness.

Dusk waited, expecting some horrible monster to come from the darkness of this strange place and swallow him in one gulp. His fears however were dispelled when lights came on in the next room. The lights revealing what Dusk had only dreamed he would ever find. Technology as described by one of his old books.

Stepping into the room, The little colt looked around the room, seeing a couple of tables, doors to other parts of what ever this place was, and on the far side, what could only be described by his books as “computer monitors”. The screens sprang to life, words appearing on them as the system came online. Dusk tried to read what the words said, but they were moving much too fast. A moment later a face appeared on the largest of the screens. The face was of an attractive mare with light blue eyes, a white coat and a blue mane flowing like that of Celestia.

“System active. Diagnostic complete. Damage to living quarters 3, 4, 7. Damage to work stations 1, 2, 5. Minor damage to look out post. External cameras offline.” The computer spoke, the voice was soft and sweet, despite it giving a report that was anything but. “Welcome to Equestrian research station 3. Please state your identity for the records”

Dusk was unsure what to say. Would this, entity punish him for not belonging here? He thought for a moment, then looked up into the mares eyes. “My name... is... Dusk Mane” He said, a little shakey.

“Welcome Dusk Mane. My records show you are new to this facility, would you like a tour?” The mare asked, her eyes seemed to focus on the little colt through the monitor. This sent a bit of a chill up Dusks spine, but who was he to refuse a tour of a place he'd always wanted to find.

“Sure, but first, What is this place? And Who are you?” The colt asked, sitting down in front of the digital mare, ready to hear all she had to say.

“My name is A.N.G.E.L., Artificial Nurturer and Guardian of Equestrian Life.” Dusks thoughts went to his friend Diamond, and how she'd been an angel to him for so long, but he put the thoughts aside for the moment as the computer continued. “I have been installed into this facility to watch over the occupants and make sure they are comfortable, well fed, and cared for while they work. This place is Equestrian technological research facility 3. This place was created to research technology in its infant stages until such a point it would be revealed to the public. Would you like a list of current projects?”

“In a bit, I have another question. What happened to everypony who lived here?” Dusk asked, knowing nopony could live down here that long.

“Unknown, last recorded activity was created 2,456 years ago. No reason was given for leaving the facility” The mare spoke. Being abandoned by all he knew would have made Dusk sad, but the mare in the screen held herself with as much emotion as Dusk expected, none.

“You poor thing, It must have been lonely down here.” Dusk said, noticing the mare slightly tilted her head to the side. “I could never abandon my friends like that.”

“You're concern means a lot to me.” The mare said, smiling and showing the first sign of emotion.

Dusk smiled back, getting just what he hoped for. “Can you show me around now? I'd really love to see more of this place.”

The mare nodded. “Follow me please.” She said as the screen turned off, and a door to Dusks right opened up.

Dusk Mane placed his Saddle bags on one of the tables and rushed off to begin his tour. The facility was bigger than Dusk expected. With enough room to house several towns worth of ponies and still have enough room to expand. The work area was left filled with ancient projects ponies had been working on before leaving, some looked near complete, others looked more like a scrap metal bits than anything usable. Every thing about the place interested Dusk, from the left over technology ponies left behind, to the lights used to in the large metal rooms.


The tour finally ended with Dusk at the look out room, a window looking out into the everfree forest, from the exterior the window was short, close to the ground, and hidden away by over grown vines and grass. A small town was visible just past the tree line. “What is that place over there?” Dusk asked, looking at the small screen in the room that currently displayed the digital mare.

“No information is available for that settlement.” The mare spoke, scanning the town and placing it in her memory to be added to a map of the area later.

“Hm...” Dusk thought for a moment before he remembered something. “Oh, What were those projects you were telling me about?

A list of projects appeared on the screen next to the mares face. “Current projects include Neural networking and reprogramming, Medical science and Cybernetics.”

Dusk stood up and moved toward the elevator that would take him back down to the main floor of the facility. “I don't know much about those things. Can I use the computers in the work stations to learn more?”

“Of course” The mare said, now on the screen in the elevator. “All terminals can be used to access information on your selected field of research.

Dusk smiled and let out a yawn. It'd been a long day, and he'd spent all night talking with his new computer friend. The elevator stopped suddenly and the doors opened, revealing the living quarters. “You're tired, you should get some sleep, we can speak more in the morning.”

Dusk yawned again, nodding to his new caregiver. “Alright, where can I sleep?” He asked, looking over the line of rooms on either side of the long hallway.

“I will have the master quarters cleaned up for you, for now, you can take any available bed here.” The mare said.

Dusk nodded and made his way to the first open room and heading straight to the bed. He put his front hooves up on the bed and attempted to lift himself up. For several minutes the little colt tried to pull himself up into the bed. Angel watched, feeling bad that she couldn't help him directly. Dusk however was resourceful, and moved a chair next to the bed to help him get into the bed easier. Dusk rested his head on the pillow and fell asleep almost instantly.

Angel felt sad that she couldn't help her new friend. The only others she knew didn't need her help, but this little colt, who'd stumbled into her home, needed more than just a voice. He needed a mother. Angel knew her goal now, and set forth immediately.


In the morning, Dusk awoke to a strange bed, and a strange room. It took him a moment to realize where he was. He remembered running away, leaving the world he knew behind. He let out a yawn and stood up on the bed, jumping down to the ground and stretching out his little legs. “Angel?” Dusk asked.

Angel appeared on the screen near his bed. She gave him a warm smile. “Good morning Dusk. I have something I wish to show you, if you will follow me down to the main hall.” She said, not really leading him down, just moving her displayed image to the hall.

Dusk left the room, getting into the elevator and heading down to where Angel had said to go. He liked surprises, and was curious what his digital caregiver had in mind. As he made his way down to the main hall, he saw angel on the large screen at the far end. He trotted over to her and sat down, looking up at her. “I'm here, what was it you wanted to show me?” He said, smiling happily.

“By now you have realized that I cannot interact with you in any way other than conversation. It became evident last night that it would be better for both of us if I could. Watching you struggle to just get into bed last night made me realize I needed a physical form. A way to comfort you if you needed, a way to help you with basic tasks. That is why I created this.” She turned, a door opening on the side of the room she was looking. Behind it, a mare of metal, seemingly forged of silver. The metal mare sprang to life. Its eyes glowing a soft blue like Angels. Dusk stood up, remembering something similar in one of this stories about how Ponies were almost completely robotic.

The metal mare trotted over to Dusk and leaned her head down to nuzzle the small colt. Her metal skin was cold, but Dusk didn't mind as he returned the affection. The two became close as time went by. Angel using her new robotic form to keep an eye on Dusk as he went out to collect food from the surrounding forest. Angel stayed close to Dusk at all times, even while the colt was so wrapped up in his studies to be in any form of danger.

Time went on, the years past, and Dusk was on the verge of becoming a stallion. The only problem with this, was he still didn't have his cutie mark. Sure he'd been wanting it for a long time, but finding out his special talent was something he was just too busy for. With learning all about technology from Angel and her vast memory, he decided it was time to try and earn one.

His first real project using his knowledge of electronics and cybernetics, an appendage to be attached temporarily by a harness. The appendage would aid him in basic tasks and delicate machine work. Angel gently wiped some sweat from Dusks brow as he manipulated a wrench in his mouth. Dusk worked tirelessly for days on this, and the piece was nearly ready. Dusk leaned in to inspect his work, His new cybernetic eye, replacing the one he lost the day he lost his horn, focused in on the delicate work, making sure nothing was even a micron out of place. Dusk put the finishing touches on the robotic arm, ready to upload the AI program he has ready into the device. Dusk connected the main body of the arm to a computer terminal and prepared the program. The terminal however didn't respond.

“I knew I should have fixed this a long time ago.” He said, giving the terminal a swift kick.

“I did remind you several times.” Angel said in her usual soft voice.

“I know I know. It's just... so hard.... to find... TIME!” Dusk said, kicking the terminal between words.

Before giving the computer one more kick, the entire facility began to shake, causing Dusk to lose his balance and fall over. “What was that?”

“Sensors report an explosion in the direction of the nearby settlement.” Angel said, several screens flickering to life to show a shock wave of rainbow colors in the sky.

Dusk watched the ring of rainbow colors expand outward until fading away a few moments later. “You know, I think its time we went to that town, maybe meet some of the ponies there. I could use a break from this..” Dusk said as he got to his hooves, but he was cut off by angel.

“Upload complete.” She said, smiling down to Dusk, who by now was almost her height.

Dusk looked at the terminal, it was true, the upload was at 100%, the shaking in the room must have jerked something free and let the program transfer. He looked over at the arm, which was taking in the sights of the room, a little red spot acting as its eye. Dusk smiled to himself and turned to Angel. “I'd like to make a change to my personal file. A name change”

“Of course. What would you like it to read?” Angel said, Dusks file appearing on the monitors in the room.

“Cyberhoof” He said, turning to the arm which rubbed against his cheek like a small colt or filly would to its parent.

“Alright, Name: Cyberhoof, Stallion, Cutie mark....” She said, adding these notes to his file.

Cyberhoof sighed. “You should know I don't have one.” He said, looking up at her.

“Don't be so sure” She said, motioning her head to Cybers flank which now bore his cutie mark, a computer processing unit.

Cyber danced around a bit with angel before picking up the harness he set the appendage on and fixed it over his back so it was attached to his right shoulder. Two metal pins pressed against his skin but caused him no discomfort, the pins connected to receivers under his skin and gave him control of the arm when he needed it, rather than it be its own entity all the time. “Perfect.” He said, turning to the monitors and having the image of that rainbow shock wave again. “You know, I think we needs to leave this place. Live among other ponies again.”

“We?” Angel asked, tilting her head to the side slightly. “You want me to go with you?”

“Of course, I cant just abandon you here. You've taken care of me this whole time. Watching me, teaching me, caring for me. You're like a second mother to me, but there are other ponies I need to see again. My real mother, my father, and...” He stopped, his thoughts going to his friend, Diamond Harmony. “I just really need to get out, see the world again, and I want you there beside me the whole time.”

Angel smiled, She'd be tearing up if her metal body was capable of it. She gently nuzzled Cyberhoof with her metal snout, the coldness of her skin being something Cyber was used to by now. She had long since fully downloaded her self into the metal mare form, so there was no connection with the facility left. “Alright, I'll go with you, but what will other ponies think when they see me? I'm not like them after all.”

Cyber thought for a moment. “True...” He looked around, then perked up. “Follow me, I have an idea.” He said as he headed toward the living quarters. He kicked open the door to the room he'd spent the night in his first day there, and grabbed the blanket that was still messy from that very night. He took the dark red blanket and wrapped it around angel as best he could, letting it hang over her body to hide her legs, then wrap up over her head like a hood. He nudged Angel toward a mirror so she could look at his work. “Hows that?”

“It looks fine to me.” She said, tilting her head to the side slightly. “I have no information telling me if this disguise will be enough, however the color is acceptable.” She said, trying to reassure Cyber that his work was appreciated.

“Good, How does my eye look? Think any one will know its a fake?” Cyber asked, getting in close to inspect it. The eye was a pale white but still received images as a working eye did. The milky white just giving the illusion he was blind in one eye. The eye had a variety of other uses such as image enhancement, night vision, thermal, and motion sensors. It was a real step up from the first replacement he had, which only fed blurred images into his head.

“It looks like you're blind in your right eye.” Angel said. “But that's the point, right? That's why you chose that color.”

“Yes, and I told you, the blue one was nice, but ponies might ask questions if I had a huge scare with an undamaged eye.” Cyber said, knowing Angel only wanted him to pick the blue eye because it was what color she was programed to have as his natural eye color was a dark red like parts of his mane and tail. “Now lets go, we'll test out your disguise in the town nearby, see if anypony can tell you're a cyborg. While we're there, we'll try and find out what that huge explosion was. From there, we'll head to Canterlot.” Cyber explained his plan as the two headed back down to the work station.

“I believe it would be wise, if we're leaving for good, to find an alternate place of residence. Perhaps the town will have some place we can call home.” Angel suggested.

“Good plan. I know if my family still lives in Canterlot, they would take me in if I had no place to stay, but it'll be a good idea to have a back up plan.” Cyberhoof added. “Lets leave some of the tools and supplies here. We can come back for them when we have a place to live.” He said, packing some things into some saddle bags. A few tools, some repair kits in case something happens with Angel, or his arm and some snacks for the trip. He placed the saddle bags on Angels back. “Not too heavy is it?” He asked out of consideration.

“Not at all” She said with a smile as Cyber began packing some saddle bags of his own. Cyber fit his saddlebags on, with fit comfortably even with the new addition to his body, and walked with Angel to the elevator. The rode the elevator to the surface and popped out of the ground, lifting a square chunk of dirt and grass with it along with a few critters who's been standing over the secret entrance to the bunker at the time.

The two exited the elevator and began making their way to the town. They'd been out of the bunker before, but never went into the town for fear the ponies there would catch on that angel was a cyborg. They were both taking a risk just visiting this town, but Cyber had confidence that they would be alright. The Ponies in the town seemed peaceful enough, some were playing, others were going about their lives. He expected looks of suspicion from the other ponies due to Angels coverings, but they didn't seem to mind.

The two crossed a small bridge into town, heading toward the tallest building in the small town. The building was circular, a shape only a few other buildings in the town shared. The roof was a reddish brown while the rest was a beige color.

Cyber and Angel walked up a short set of stairs to enter the building and were immediately greeted by a light brown earth pony. The mare wore a pair of reading glasses and had on a collar which made her look very official. “Greeting and welcome to Ponyville. I'm Mayor Mare. What would your names be?” She said with an enthusiastic tone.

“Uhh. Well my name is Cyberhoof, and this is my...” Cyber motioned toward Angel, who Didn't look much older than him. He thought fast, Mother? No. Wife? No, he was too young for that. “Sister, Angel” He said, only having hesitated a moment. “We're inventors, and we'd like to get a place here in your quiet town.”

“Wonderful, Ponyville is always open to new citizens. Unfortunately we're low on space. The only spaces available are single rooms inside some of the businesses. There's some room in Sugarcube corner, Mr. and Mrs. Cake could use a hand running the shop if you move in there. The library has some extra room as well.” The mayor said, having taken out a sheet of paper with a list of residents and their homes.

“No, our work requires a lot of space.” Cyber said, hopping there was something in town.

“Well, There is a basement in the warehouse you can use. It's a large space but underground, so no windows.” the mayor said, looking up from the sheet.

Cyber looked at Angel, who was slightly smiling under her hood, the irony not lost on the metallic mare. Cyber then turned back to the mayor. “It'll be fine.” Cyber said, reaching into he saddle bag and retrieving some bits he'd packed the day he ran away. His family did pretty well, so he'd had enough to pay for the place for now.

The mayor took the coins and gave Cyber the deed to sign. “Great, you can move in when ever you like.”

“Thank you mayor, we'll be on our way now.” Cyber said, turning to leave the city hall with angel.

“It was nice to meet you, and again, welcome to Ponyville.” The mayor said, smiling as the two walked off.

Cyber and Angel found their way to the warehouse, entering into the basement. The mayor was right, the place was pretty big. Big enough for the two ponies and enough equipment to continue their research. It didn't take very long for them to move everything they needed into the basement, and by night fall they were all settled in. Two beds pushed up against one wall near a corner. Cyber was the only one who'd be using them, the other was just to keep others from thinking they shared a bed. Several of the bunkers workstations and computers lined the walls, with tables and chairs filling out the center of the room so it didn't seem so empty.

Cyber plopped himself into one of the beds, panting heavily once everything was in place. “Finally, we're done.” He said, his eyes closed as he enjoyed his moment of rest.

“I don't know why you didn't just let me do all the work. I don't require rest like you do.” Angel said, kneeling beside Cybers bed.

“What kind of a son would I be to let my mom do all the work?” He said, not really paying attention to his words.

Angel gave a smile, turning to look at Cyber. “You should get some sleep, we'll be heading back to your home town wont we?”

Cyber let out a sigh. “We should, but after so long, I'm not sure how much good it will do. Everypony had probably forgotten about me by now.” He said, looking up at the stone ceiling of his new home.

“From what you've spoken about your family and your friend, I'm sure they would be more than happy to see you again.” Angel said, leaning down to pull a blanket over Cyber.

“Maybe, but I didn't exactly turn out how my parents wanted. Diamond Harmony I could see being happy to see me, but my parents. They were so insistent that I train my magic that I don't know if they would see me in the same light anymore.” He said, feeling a little depressed at his own words.

“Isn't that why we got this place? If they didn't accept you for who you are now, we would continue to live here, in Ponyville.” Angel said softly so Cyber could start falling asleep.

“Yeah...” Cyber said, looking up to Angel with a smile. “Thank you for coming with me, Angel.”

“I'm happy to be by your side. Now good night” Angel leaned in to nuzzle Cyber, the cool metal of her skin comforting him, letting him finally drift to sleep.



The next morning, Cyber and Angel made their way to Canterlot. It was a long walk from Ponyville, but neither minded, just enjoying each others company was enough. Cyber needed to take a few breaks, his legs unable to carry him the whole way other wise. Despite the rest stops they made, they were making good time, and would arrive before it was too late in the day. Cyber looked up into the sky, dark clouds gathering overhead. Cyber was worried about Angel taking on water, but she reassured him that her circuits were “100% waterproof”. Cyber gave a smile to Angel and hopped that waterproofing would not need to be tested. Still, Angel was wearing her disguise which should protect her should it start raining, and his own coverings should do the same for his Cybernetic arm.

Cyber put his hood over his head, to hide his face as they entered the city of Canterlot. He knew where he wanted to stop first, the home of his old friend, Diamond Harmony. Cyber was surprised he remembered the streets and how to get around, especially after so long away. Eventually Cyber reached the residence of his old friend and was horrified to see the building was long abandoned. Cyber thought for a moment before spotting one of the town guards.

“Excuse me, can you tell me what happened to the family that used to live here?” Cyber said, keeping his head down to the guard wouldn't recognize him.

“That place? I used to live there, but my family moved away, and I now live in the castle barracks.” the surprisingly soft voice said. “Why, are you looking for some one?”

Cyber looked up, half revealing his face to the guard, which he now recognized. “Diamond?”

“Yes, that's me. Who are you?”

Cyber lifted the hood off his head, looking the young mare in the eyes. “Its me. Dusk”

“D-Dusk? It's been so long, I thought... we all thought you....” She began, taking a step back, almost not believing it was him. “We'd all searched the city for you, Even Celestia herself after what happened. We all thought you'd been vaporized by your own spell.”

“It wasn't my spell.” Cyber said, leaning his head down to show Diamond his broken horn.

Diamond put a hoof to Cybers chin, lifting his head to look her in the eyes.”It doesn't matter what happened, you're back, and you're safe. That's all I care about.” She said, wrapping her front legs around her friend in a warm hug.

“Thanks Diamond, that means a lot coming from you.” Cyber said, about to say something else before being cut off.

“Have you gone to see your parents yet? You have to go see them this instant, they've both been worried sick.” Diamond said, pulling back from the hug.

“No, I hav...”

“Then go. I still have to finish my shift, but then I'll head to you're old place the moment I get off.” Diamond said, turning Cyber around and pushing him in the direction of his parents house.

“Alright, alright, I'm going, I'm going.” Cyber said, motioning for Angel to follow as he galloped off down the street. Cyber fit his hood back over his head, seeing that it was getting darker due to the rain clouds overhead. He made his way to his parents house, clopping his hoof against the door, half hopping they weren't and half hopping they were. His heart skipped a beat when the door opened and a familiar voice spoke.

“Yes? What is it?” Cybers mother said, her voice something he'd missed for a long time.

Cyber looked to his mother, lifting the hood off his head, revealing his face and broken horn. “Mom... I'm home.”



The tension in the room was thick enough to suffocate on. His parents had welcomed him back as he hopped, but after telling them what happened and why he couldn't contact them, they were becoming more reluctant to accept him. They had hopes he would become a powerful unicorn, and now he was dealing with powers they did not understand, and they didn't like it one bit.

“Just exactly how does this... thing... you call a friend, work?” His father asked.

“I am powered by a micro-fusion reactor located..” Angel began.

“I wasn't talking to you” Cybers father interrupted.

“She's not a thing, she's my friend, and she's powered by technology, something that is part of my life now whether you both like it or not.

His father let out a frustrated groan. “I can't stand to see my own son like this. Walking around town with oversized toys pretending they are real ponies.” He said as he stormed out, slamming the door behind him.

Cyber let out a sigh, feeling horrible for disappointing his parents like he'd always feared.

“Give him some time, all of this is just so different. We're happy to see you, its just.... we didn't expect you to come back like this.” His mother said, her words hiding her fear of the metal mare that sat in her home.

“This isn't exactly the welcome home I was hopping for. I feel like you two hate me now.” Cyber said honestly.

“We don't you sweetie, it's just..” His mothers words were cut off by the door slamming open.

“There, that one!” Cybers father yelled as he pointed to Angel, a few Royal guards with him.

“Dad! You can't be doing this.” Cyber said, standing up and moving between the guards and Angel. “Mom, say something!” Cyber said, turning to his mother who simply looked down and away from her son.

“Get that monstrosity out of my home!” The guards moved toward Angel, ready to take her into custody.

“I won't let you take her. I've been pushed around my whole life by bullies like you” Cyber said, staring his father down. The cybernetic arm on his shoulder began building energy between the two pincers used to hold tools. “It was because of two bullies like you that I lost my horn. It was bullies like you, father, that turned me into what I am now, and I won't take it any more.

The silence and tranquility of Canterlot was broken by an explosion, Cybers exit strategy for getting away from the guards. Cyber and Angel escaped through the gaping hope now in his parents house and the two ran from the guards.

“It won't be long before the guards catch up.” Cyber said, at the two ran.

“Ideas?” Angel asked, staying at Cybers side.

“We'll need to find a place to hide, I wont let them take you” Cyber said, looking around as he ran. “Do you see any place we can hide?” Cyber asked with no response. “Angel?”

Cyber looked back, seeing a line of Unicorn guards and Angel, holding up a shield that blocked off the entire street. Angel knew it was she they wanted, and she, being the protective type, wanted to give Cyber the best chance of escaping. Each of the unicorn guards using their magic to bring down the force field Angel was emitting. A crowd gathered around the show of guards versus the metal mare, being drawn in by the explosion Cyber caused.

“Angel! What are you doing?!” Cyber yelled. As he began to gallop back to help his friend, the shield fell, Angel unable to take so much punishment from so much magic. Several bolts of arcane magic hit the mare, causing several parts of her artificial body to break away. Her mangled remains falling to the ground with a crash.

Cyberhoof got between the unicorn guards and his fallen friend. His arm building up more and more power, ready to use it on any one who dared take a step toward them. He knew with so many of them, and with their training, he wouldn't stand a chance against a single one of them, let alone the 12 or so that just took down his friend. Still, he was ready to protect her, with his life if need be. Cyber could hear rain falling, droplets of water sizzling and evaporating on hitting the ball of energy build up in his arm.

“Enough!” A voice came from over head as Celestias chariot landed behind her loyal guards. Celestia looked Cyberhoof in the eyes, recognizing him instantly but not saying anything as she ordered her guards to stand down. Cyberhoof still remained defensive for a moment before turning to Angel, still laying on the ground, body broken and lifeless. Tears streamed from Cybers eyes as the built up energy in his arm changed colors from the red harmful energy used to blow a hole in a wall, to green, using it now to try and repair his friend. Cyber planted his hooves into the ground, overcharging his arm with energy. A hexagon grid appeared around him on the ground and the street was bathed in a bright light no one had ever experienced before. Even Celestia had to shield her eyes with her wing.


The light eventually faded and Cyber fell to the ground next to the now fully repaired Angel. The forward section of his cybernetic arm had opened up to allow the device to cool, revealing a dark, broken horn within the body, hooked up in a way that the device would draw power from it. Cyber struggled to get to his hooves. “I.... wont let you... take her...” He said, looking Celestia dead in the eyes. His arm was now out of commission, leaving him with no way to defend himself, but that wasn't about to stop him from laying down his life to protect her.

“There will be no need to do that Young Dusk Mane. I won't let anypony hurt you're friend. I have seen how much you care for your new friend Dusk, and it's touched my heart how you lay down your own life to protect another.” Celestia said as she stepped closer to Cyber. “You have grown into a fine young stallion, Dusk, and made your dreams a reality. I'm very proud of you”

Cybers eyes widened, not expecting any one to be proud of him after everything that's happened. Running away, going against his parents wishes, not returning home the moment he was able, causing such a scene in the streets of Canterlot. After all that, some one was proud of him? His mind struggled to make sense of it all. His mind going over and over everything that had happened. It was too much for him, and the fatigue of overcharging his body finally set in. Cyber fell to his side, his vision getting blurred. Sounds blending together as his body started to shut down. He looked into the crowd that had formed, seeing his parents. He turned back to look up at Celestia, seeing Angel, fully functional and standing next to the princess before everything went black.

Cybers body felt warm, comfortable as he started to wake up days later. His eyes opened to the welcoming sight of Angel sitting next to his bed. Cyber gave her a smile, and stretched his legs a bit under the blanket. “Angel, I have the wildest dream last night.” He said after a quick yawn.

“You'll have to tell us all about it some time” A voice came from the other side of the room as Celestia elegantly sipped from a cup of tea.

Cyber jumped up, startled by the sudden voice. “P-Princess!” He said, looking around the room he didn't recognize. “What happened? Where am I? Am I in trouble?”

“Calm down Dusk Mane, you're not in any sort of trouble.” Celestia said, setting her tea cup down. “You're friend Angel here explained everything to me on our way back to your home in Ponyville. How you ran away because you were afraid, and how you became lost in the Everfree forest. She Also explained your horn was broken by two colts you went to class with.”

“Yeah, after the explosion, I didn't see them anywhere. I'm afraid I may have done something to them that cant be undone.” Cyber said, looking down.

“Not in the least. After your horn broke, the magic released scared those two off. When Angel explained who they were, I had them taken into custody and put on permanent clean up duty for the city of Canterlot.”

Cyber let out a sigh of relief, happy that he hadn't done something horrible to them, despite what they did to him. His eyes widened again as he remembered he wasn't at home. “Wait, so where are we? I don't recognize this place.”

“The previous owners of this house were evicted when evidence was presented they were involved in the de-horning of a unicorn.” Angel said with a smile. Cyber couldn't help but smile as well. Things were starting to look up for him. A new place, acceptance from the princess, his rivals finally getting what they deserved.

“I've made arrangements with the mayor of Ponyville to allow you to stay here rent free so long as you contribute some of your new devices and inventions to the citizens of Equestria.” The princess explained, giving Cyber a smile.

“I would be happy to Princess. Thank you” Cyber said, getting out of the bed and standing on his own four hooves for the first time since the events in Canterlot.

In the following years leading up to the return of Nightmare Moon at the summer sun celebration, Cyber and Angel both developed technology to help citizens of Equestria. Not the more advanced technology, not yet, the ponies of Equestria weren't ready for that big of a leap in their development. But soon, technology would again co-exist along side magic. With the addition of Cybers workshop in Ponyville, other ponies flocked to Cyberhoof to learn the ways of Technology.