Aces' Diary

Chapters

Prologue: The Crash
Chapter 1: Pony?
Chapter 2: The other side
Chapter 3: More ponies...
Chapter 4: Nightmare in the locked patience room
Chapter 5: Gettin' Dressed
Chapter 6: Nightmare Night is Neigh
Chapter 7: Nightmare Night
Chapter 8: Piece of the Past
Chapter 9: End of the Legend
Holiday Special: Hearth's Warming Eve Part I
Holiday Special: Hearth's Warming Eve Part II Final
Chapter 10: The Message
Tea Time With Thor #1
Chapter 11: Reparation
Chapter 12A: My Love, Gerd
Chapter 12B: Infiltration

Prologue: The Crash

Prologue

London, 1940

The wreckage and rubble of the buildings collapsed; just more for the civilians to clear up. The police and Home-guard watched them to prevent looting. Firemen struggled to put out the flaring fires they had been trying to put out all day long. The remaining children in the city played around the rubble of a bombed-out building, playing hopscotch. MPs patrolled the street, carrying armfuls of respirators. Mobile tea cars served the firemen, homeguard and the police. The shops in London were crowded with people buying food and household items, or at least what could be had in such lean times. Women, working in the munition factories started to go home. The Thames made beautiful sight, reflecting the sunlight and the building near the great river. Big Ben’s bell tolled 4 times. 4 pm sharp. A peaceful day...

Vroooooooo

The air raid sirens came to life. The patrolling air wardens blew their whistles and yelled, “TAKE COVER!”

London was in the Blitz. Civilians ran for underground bomb shelters in paths cleared of the rubble of bombed-out buildings wrecked by the last air raid. Firemen stood by, waiting for the inferno which was coming for London. The Home Guard ran for AA emplacements and spotlights, even though it wasn’t dark yet. Some of the Home Guard picked up binoculars and started to look for enemy planes. The peaceful day had been broken.

A few minutes later, the droning sound of German bombers and their escorts came closer. Swarms of Heinkel bombers flew in perfect formations. Their escorts flew by them, mostly Messerschmidt Bf-109. The rest were Junker JU-87 Stukas, for strategic bombing.

The Stuka dive bomber drove mass destruction to British war machine production. The siren installed on their noses would scream their hellish noise as they dive, bringing fear to the heart of the British people.

The AA guns started to bear on their marks as spotlights found their targets and tracked them for the gunners. Vast black clouds of smoke filled the sky as the exploded, shrapnel-shells scattered hot metal in all directions to damage the enemy aircraft.

An ace among the escorts. Gerhard Barkhorn, sat rigid in his Messerschmitt Bf-109, mentally checking his armament: a 20 mm gun on each wing, loaded with short-fused shells and dual MG 17 machine guns mounted in the engine cowling. If he had seen to them correctly, they would not fail him in battle.

He saw silhouettes on the horizon. He instinctively knew they were enemy Spitfires, and alerted his comrades through the radio right away, “Feindliche Flugzeuge! (enemy aircraft)”

As he throttled up his Bf-109 to engage the enemies and protect the bombers as he had been so rigorously trained to, flipping his Bf-109 in a carefully calculated barrel role to end up on the tail of the nearest enemy aircraft.

The Spitfire had seen him coming through; the British pilot turned his plane around to face the German, but it was in vain; altogether too late evasive maneuver.

Gerhard aimed ahead of the Spitfire and pulled the trigger on his flight stick.

Most of the burst missed, and the few machine gun rounds that did make contact failed to damage anything critical to the enemy plane beside scratching some of its camouflage paint.

Their fighters began to spiral closer and closer. They dodged each other’s fire, but one fighter would have to peel off eventually, and Gerhard knew it would be him.

After what felt like an eternity bearing down on each other, he pulled the flight stick with all his might and peeled off, trying to avoid the Spitfire’s superior turning circle. He looked at his opponent's plane and then saw a series of crosses painted beneath the cockpit. He was facing a Spitfire ace, and he knew all well that he could make a name for himself by taking down this skilled enemy.

He tailed the ace and took aim once again. His 20 mm cannons and machine guns burst out destruction at his enemy. The ace’s engine started to smoke, but yet again his enemy survived.

The ace pulled up and did a barrel roll, going inverted above him. He dived down on Gerhard and let loose rain of 7.7 mm bullets. Gerhard felt his aircraft’s tail getting peppered, but the tail flaps were still more or less functional. He had to be more careful around from now on. Especially anywhere near that ace.

He knew that Spitfires were faster than his Bf-109 at climbing and turning, but he did have one advantage. The Spitfire's engine seemed to cut out instantly when climbing up vertically. The sweet thought of receiving a Knight Cross came into his mind, rendering him more determine to eliminate the ace.

He pulled his nose up and throttled back into a near-suicidal stall. The ace didn’t slow down, but rather quickly pulled his aircraft’s nose to bear and fired his dual machine guns. Gerhard clenched his jaw as the British ace’s guns homed in. But in the last moment, the Spitfire’s engine cut out, just as planned. German fuel injection now gave Gerhard the advantage. He throttled back up and pulled out of the stall, the British aircraft coasting in a dive before him. Before the Spitfires engine restarted, Gerhard threw a burst of everything he had at the Spitfire. It was torn up by his barrage. Holes covered the enemy Spitfire, and the engine let out a plume of black smoke.

The ace fled to the clouds, so Gerhard followed after the trail of now-fading exhaust. The cloud, though, hid his prey well. When he came out the other side, the Spitfire had disappeared without a trace.

Suddenly, the ace descended and opened fire on him, damaging his left wing. He saw gaping holes torn in the aluminium, and a few stray rounds damaged the engine, releasing pitch-black smoke. The ace had returned the favor, and now the field was leveled. Gerhard started throwing everything he had left at the ace to survive. The hunter had become the hunted.

Gerhard brought himself around yet again, preparing for one last push, but he found nothing but empty sky. Even as he watched, all nearby clouds were blown away by a mysterious force. His radio crackled painfully through his headset.

“Hallo?” he tried the radio, “Hallo?” Dead. “Hallo?” he tried another attempt, but yet, no reply.

The only sound that broke the engine’s pained droning was loud and endless static. But then, out of nowhere, a sound from the radio rang in his ears: music...

Too happy to be war time music. He didn’t know the song, but it sound like music for children in happier times, and it was starting to creep him out.

He saw another aircraft approaching his own from the horizon, fast. He saw flashes, and his engine burst into flames. He tried to return fire, but no use: his main machine guns, centered around the damaged engine bay, had jammed. He tried the cannon, but no luck there either. He was helpless.

He started to fall from the sky; only death awaited him below. He tried to control his plane for as smooth landing as possible. The sun shone out its brilliant light. As he turned to face its warmth, shielding his eyes. He thought that must be heaven. He look down and saw the sea, the English Channel. He wished now that he had opted to keep his parachute, but it was too late. He closed his eyes and prayed.

The brilliant light flashed blindingly bright.

He waited for his death, one, two and three minutes. He hadn’t been that high up, was he? He opened his eyes slowly to see land below. He was pretty sure that it was water as far as eyes could see a little while ago. It wasn't the rolling plains of southern England either, but high mountains, a village, forests and...

Winged horses?

“Was?”

His eyes were tracking the creatures which just flew past him. They noticed his burning aircraft and immediately retreated, afraid of the flames.

“Dies ist nicht England, (This is not England.)”

He saw a smoke trail from the forest on his right. The source was a wrecked Spitfire, smoking from the massive crash landing. He noticed it all approaching him very, very quickly. He would end up like that ace: died from crashing.

He was still falling. The only thing he could think of is his wife back at the airfield. He may never see her again. He looked at the photo of her that he kept next to the attitude indicator.

A young woman, around 30, with short, blond curly hair and sparkling eyes looked back at him. She was also in the Luftwaffe, an engineer. He smiled for the first time between his mission.

He looked at the altimeter. 1000 metres. It’ll end soon. He would survive, if the Devil decided to give him some more time.

Just a smooth landing will be enough, he thought.

The his engine cut out completely, no longer burning, nor functional. He saw the forest from earlier below. He glided down to a clear field nearby, his landing gear not functional. He readied to belly out. In the final second before the jolting blackness overcame his mind, her name passed through his head:

Ava...

Chapter 1: Pony?

Chapter 1: Pony?

Gerhard woke up and saw nothing but darkness. He tried to look around, but his body wouldn’t obey him. He couldn’t feel his body either. Only darkness of the void around him.

So, this is how it end, a crash landing… he thought.

Suddenly, a mysterious bright light ahead of him drove away the nearby darkness. He tried to follow it, but no luck. He mustered all his might to follow it, still no luck. The light was getting brighter and brighter every second. His sensation of his torso had returned, followed by his arms, hands and legs. The light finally drove away the void. It embraced him. He felt warmth all over his body. He closed his eyes and waited for his judgment.

*****

Gerhard opened his eyes slowly t adjust his vision from the glare caused by sunlight. He was still in the cockpit of his Messerschmitt, but all his could see beyond its broken square canopy was a huge boulder and surrounding greenery. The propeller had bent and broken off before him.

So, this is what stopped my plane? he wondered while inspecting the gigantic rock.

Assuming that he was behind the enemy’s line, he decided to get out before anyone finds him. He tried moving his arm slowly to check its condition. Luckily, it remained unharmed from the crash. He felt liquid dripping from his head. He checked the wound, just a small cut. He continued to his legs.

“ARRGH!” he screamed in pain.

His left leg was broken, along with a few bruises. He tried to move it a bit to see how serious it was, but it merely lead to more fiery pain.

It’s very serious…

He unlocked his canopy and swung it open. He stood up on his good leg and climbed out. He stood on the wing, looked around. He saw a brightly-coloured field, mountain, forest, and a village.

This definitely isn’t England or France… he thought. Certainly not with those… flying horses. He shook his head to clear it. He looked about, but saw nothing. It must have been a hallucination, he rationalized.

He saw no one nearby. Considering the fact that this was probably enemy territory, which was a good thing. He grabbed his survival kit from behind the pilot’s seat and awkwardly walked down to the lowest wingtip, trying not to harm his fragile broken leg whilst still hurrying to get away from his downed aircraft. A crash landing would have drawn someone’s attention, so he only had a few minutes to get away. He drew his trusty Walther P38, just in case he was already too late.

Better be safe than sorry… he thought sagely.

He limped out of the open, to a bush near the forest. He hid in the bush and looked at his broken leg, covered fresh wounds. He could still do something about it. He broke off a twig and bit down on it before bending his own leg back to its normal shape.

“ARRG!” He cried in pain.

He broke some more branches to support his leg and wrapped some bandages around it. He found another to act as a crutch. As he finally settled himself back against a small tree, he felt something fall on his head. He looked up, rubbing his already sensitive scalp. He saw a lot of kids’ stuff, toys and tools.

Who would stashed tools in this bush? he wondered while taking account of everything hidden inside.

Then he saw an axe. He smirked and grabbed it. It was an ordinary axe in pink with some flower pattern on it. The handle was very smooth, must have been sanded. He tried it on one of the branch, clean cut. He grinned devilishly.

This would come in handy. He grinned deviously, staring at his reflection from the mirror-like surface of the axe.

He moved out of the bush. With a cane supporting him, he moved a bit quicker. Still, he felt uneasy, as if someone was looking at him. He looked around and readied his pistol. Nothing in the field nor the sky, only the forest he couldn’t check for the source of that feeling. He smelled something horrid, like someone who hadn’t brushed their teeth for years. He heard cracks from the bush nearby. He reacted by pointing his gun and readied his pink axe. He also checked his pistol, full magazine. He cocked his pistol and unlocked its safety, readied for anything closing on him.

A bunny came out, hopping as fast as it can. He lowered his pistol. Then he smelled it again, the horrid smell, this time much stronger. He looked around once more to find its source. He saw it: a wolf made of logs, branches and leaves. Its eyes emitting green light. It growled at him, the horrid stench almost destroying his sense of smell. It pounced at him and slashed at his chest with its wooden claws.

“ERRG…” He growled in pain. His blood burst from the ragged wound in his flesh.

He chopped its neck with his axe and kicked it off him. It flew through the air and landed a yard away from him. He stood back up, pointed his pistol at it, and fired a couple shots. Within the second the bullet pierced the beast’s body, it growled painfully. It was still alive, he shot two more rounds into its stomach. As his bullets ended the beast’s life, it broke into wooden pieces and disintegrated. Smoke emitted from it. He grabbed his axe from its remaining logs and branches. He then sheathed it into his belt.

He checked his chest, still bleeding. He unbuttoned his shirt to see three small cuts. He opened his first aid kit picked up a bottle of morphine and a syringe. He sucked some morphine into the syringe and injected it into his chest. He grabbed the alcohol from the kit and poured it all over the wound. He put down the alcohol and grabbed a needle and a length of surgical thread. He paused with the needle to his skin, but gathered his courage. He started to stitch his wounds one loop at a time, tying off each rough not as quickly as he could. When he finished, he grabbed a roll of bandage from the kit. He wrapped it around his chest and tied a knot to secure the bandage. He finished just as the effects of the morphine began to dull his senses.

Better make a fire before night comes…

He picked up the logs and branches from the wolf’s remains and built it into a teepee shape. He then walked to nearby bush and picked some dried leaves. He saw green smoke moving slowly to his campfire, but he ignored it. Then he smelled it, a stench that could kill an elephant. He dropped the dried leaves and unsheathed his axe. He couldn’t risk wasting more of the few bullets he had. Too late, it charged at him. He tried to dodge, and failed. The wooden wolf got him, he flew three metres away, and rammed into a nearby tree. He felt darkness begin to envelope him as his consciousness slipped away from him.

He saw a blurry yellow figure with something pink thing on its head approaching, fast. It reached where he and that wolf were. His consciousness was slipping even further away. It stood there and yelled something to the wolf. The wolf seemed scared; it fled to the forest. He was almost completely unconscious by that point. The yellow figure approached him.

“Ava......” he whispered his wife’s name

*****

He woke up in the same darkness again. But this time, he saw a figure in the distance. He focused. His wife.

“Ava!” he called out to her. She didn’t seem to hear him.

“Ava!” he called again. She still didn’t hear him.

“AVA!!” he yelled louder this time.

She heard him, turned her head, smiled, and walked away from him. He followed her, but the distance between them only grew. He ran to catch up; she started to run too.

“AVA! Why are you running away from me?” he asked his wife. She didn’t answer him.

The distance grew further and further. He started sprinting. The distance from her stopped growing, not increasing or decreasing.

“Ava, please stop running!” he asked her, and again, she didn’t respond.

He began to sweat, but not exhausted, thanks to his workout and training. She ran even faster, he started to get exhausted as well. The distance grew at great rate. Finally, he lost her.

“AVAAAAA!!”

*****

He woke up panting. He rose to a sitting position and shielded his eyes.

What a terrible nightmare…

Panting began to stop, took a deep breath and blew out through his lips. He looked around to see where he was. He was in some kind of house, a lot of cages and animal houses were there. He saw a bunny, looking at him with crossed arms. He looked back as it stared at him. The silence lasted for a couple of minutes, before it hopped to another room.

What a strange hare… He looked at the door as it hopped out

He took another look at his surroundings, same cages and houses. He looked outside, noticing that night had fallen. He checked his gear; service knife was still in its sheath in his boot, his pistol back in its holster with four rounds left in its magazine. He pulled out the spare bullets from one of his pockets. He loaded his current magazine, his spares already prepared. When he finished loading his magazine, he heard some footsteps from the door which the strange hare had hopped out. He put his magazine back in, cocked it and pointed at the source of the sound.

A yellow pony with a long curly pink mane shyly emerged from the door. It fell back behind the door after a few seconds. Suddenly, he heard a conversation on the other side of the wall.

“Oh, Angel, what should I do? He made that funny noise and pointed that strange metal rod at me…” said the lady behind the door. ‘Angel’ didn’t respond.

“I... I should t..talk to him?” the girl behind the door continued shyly.

What? Is she talking to herself? Confused, he froze there for a second, processing everything he had been listening to.

“Ahh. Ok…” she accepted her defeat.

The yellow horse with long curly pink mane. Butterflies tattoo and a pair of wings? Pushed the door open slowly and walked hesitantly toward him. It stopped before him, its mouth shivered. He sensed fear from it and he lowered his gun. He moved his empty hand toward it, trying to be as careful as possible.

It flinched and let out a small ‘eep.’ It trotted back and hid behind its long mane.

Eep? Horses can’t make that sound, right? once again, he asked himself the unanswerable question.

“Umm, where’s your owner?” he muttered. The yellow horse peeked out from its mane, seemed to hear it.

“I...I don’t have an owner....” it answered him quietly in a shaky tone.

“DID YOU JUST TALK?!” he let out a very surprised shout, thus it hid behind its mane and shook violently.

“Sorry, did you just talk?” he asked quietly. It peeked out again, tear in its eyes.

“Y...Yes, I did...?” it answered in a shaky tone.

“How can a horse talk?” he muttered, again it seemed to hear what he muttered.

“W..We’re ponies” it corrected quietly. He saw it said something, but couldn’t hear it.

“What did you say?” he asked quietly, careful not to startle it again.

“W...We a..are ponies...” it corrected again.

“Ok, you are a pony with wings and the ability to talk,” he replied quietly.

“I’m a p..pegasus” it corrected him quietly. It stood up slowly.

“So, you are a pegasus that can talk,” he said what he learnt a minutes ago.

“A..And my n..name is F..Fluttershy”

“Excuse me?” he asked what it said.

“M...My n..name is F…Fluttershy,” it said again, a bit more audible than the first time.

“Butter Pie?” he repeated for correction.

“Fluttershy” it said, a lot more audible.

“Fluttershy?” he asked for an approval from her.

“Y..Yes,” she approved.

“Miss Fluttershy, where exactly am I?” he asked, looking out from a window.

“E..Equestria,” she answered his question.

“Where’re all the humans?” he asked and started panicking a bit.

“W...What are humans?” she asked back with confused look on her face.

He would have panicked, but his training taught him to remain calm and solve the problem, whatever it is. So instead, he moved on to a problem he could actually solve.

“Err...so, I’m in your house?” he asked

“Y...Yes,” she answered. He moved to the next question that popped into his head…

“What happened when it attacked me?” he asked, waited for her answer patiently.

“I...I was feeding my friends here when I smelled something horrible. So, I followed the smell and found you. He was... mauling you. That was not very nice of him so I...” She trailed off, unable to finish.

“Thanks, for that. I really needed it back then. I wouldn’t have survived him if you weren’t there,” he said, grateful for her help.

“I..It’s nothing, I couldn’t stand not to helped somepony that’s in danger!” she exclaimed.

“By the way, did I drop anything?” he asked

“I found this lying on the ground near you,” she answered his question, picking up his survival kit.

“Danke,” (Thank you) he said in German.

“W...What?” she asked, making a confused look on her face.

“Oh sorry, it means ‘Thank you’ in my language,” he answered her curiosity, wiping the confused look off her face.

“Ok…” she answered quietly

His stomach started to groan, alerting him to eat something. He rubbed his stomach. He grabbed a can of his rations labeled ‘Sauerkraut’ from his survival kit.

“Can I use your stove?” he asked her while he tried to figure out the way to open it.

“O...Of course.”

“Where’s the kitchen?”

“T....There.” She pointed her hoof at one of the doors. “W...What’re you going to do?” she asked him, looking at the bag he just grabbed.

“Cook some food,” he answered her question, before he walked to her kitchen.

She followed him. Her animals seemed to be frightened by him. She calmed them down before following him to the kitchen.

“Miss Fluttershy, Do you have a knife?” he asked. He looked at her sought for her answer.

“Err.... no, s..sorry,” she answered with a sad tone, looking down to the floor.

“It’s ok, Fluttershy. No need to be sorry,” he said to comfort her a bit. He pulled out his own knife from its sheath in his right boot. Fluttershy flinched a bit. He stabbed the can and cut the top open. He stared at the stove for a minute to figure out how to use it.

Fluttershy stood there and watched him cooking. She wanted to help him with the stove, but was too scared to say anything much. Gerhard finally figured out how to turn it on, after 5 minutes of trying.

“JA!” he shouted victoriously, which frightened Fluttershy in the progress.

“Sorry…” he apologized when he saw Fluttershy shivering in fear.

He wasted no time. He picked the ration up, put it on the stove, and waited. While it was heating up, he opened his survival kit and grabbed a spoon. After 5 minutes, He decided his meal was ready to eat.

He turned off the stove and picked up his ration. Fluttershy watched from the corner of the kitchen, wondering what was in that can; it smelled delicious. Gerhard scooped the cabbage up and ate it. It wasn’t that good, but this would satisfy his hunger for a couple of hours. He saw that Fluttershy was interested in his meal. He decided to ask if she would like some.

“Would you like a taste, Miss Fluttershy?” he asked

“Oh, that would be very nice thank you Mr… you never did tell me your name.”

“Excuse my rudeness, Miss. I’m Leutnant Gerhard Barkhorn, pilot of the Jagdgeschwader 52, Luftwaffe.”

“Er... sorry, I..I don’t want to be rude but, I don’t know what you are saying,” she apologized silently.

“Sorry for my mother language, I’m Lieutenant Gerhard Barkhorn, pilot of 52nd Fighter Wing, German Air Force.”

“S...Sorry, w..what’s a fighter wing?” she asked shyly as always

He was in a land of talking horse. There could be more of them. If they’re actually the dominant specie, they should at least have military. He scooped up some more into his mouth before answering her.

“A group of pilots that fly fighter aircraft,” he explained after he had chewed all the cabbage in his mouth. “Anyway, you want some of this?" he asked the same question again.

“Oh, t...thank you,” she said quietly, grateful for his generosity. He had eaten enough for this meal, so, he gave the rest of his ration to Fluttershy.

Somehow, Gerhard felt that Fluttershy was really cute. He shook that feeling away. Fluttershy gave him back his ration can. He accepted it from her, washed it at her sink, and let it dry on the counter. He would stash it back in his survival kit when it dried.

He felt tired; his eyes were getting heavier and heavier. He wanted to sleep, but he had to warn Fluttershy about something first.

“Fluttershy,” he called her. She turned to him.

“W..What is it Mr. Barkhorn?” she asked him.

“This thing" he said as he pointed at his gun. “Please, do NOT ever touch this. it’s very dangerous, trust me,” he said and made a serious face.

“O…O…Ok,” She nodded as she replied him in shaky voice, fear on her face.

He noticed the look she gave him. Fear... “Sorry, Fluttershy," he apologized. “Anyway, don’t touch this, alright? It can kill you if you are not careful,” he said. The word ‘kill’ made Fluttershy flinch. She would never touch a thing that will kill someone. She nodded silently.

“Is there any chance you have somewhere I can sleep?” he asked, looking in Fluttershy’s eyes, seeking for her answer.

“Y...Y can use my bed, I could sleep on the couch.”

“You should sleep in your bed, I’m fine with the couch,” he exclaimed

“O..Ok,” she agreed, not wanting to argue.

He walked to the room he woke up. He saw the couch he lay on when he was unconscious. He sat on it and removed his black leather boots before lying down and covering himself with the blanket. He closed his eyes, waiting for the sandman to put him to sleep.

Chapter 2: The other side

Chapter 2: The Other Side

His Spitfire was engulfed in flame, and the heat began to seep through his flight suit. He had to act immediately. He attempted to unlock the canopy, but it was jammed. He grunted as he attacked it further, but it barely budged. Mustering all his strength, he used all his might against the steel, and finally, it snapped off. A smile crept on his face, but this wasn’t the time for celebration. He hastily slid back the canopy, stood up into the roaring wind, and leapt out.

Luckily, his parachute wasn’t damaged by the flames that engulfed his engine; the proofing in the cockpit saved him. His Spitfire plummeted down to the forest below, crashing at the edge of the forest in a brilliant explosion. Fire flared up in a mushroom-like shape, spreading its blaze to the surrounding trees.

He plummeted through the air, wind battering against his body. If he hadn’t worn the goggles, he would have been blinded by the pummeling breeze. Spreading his arms and legs slowly for stability, he aligned himself as well as he could in the air before reaching for the rip cord. With a correctly timed rip, he released the billowing silk into the sky behind him, jerking to a sudden halt. He eyed the spread white dome above him, noting a small greyed-out corner, tinged by heat damage. Hopefully, it wouldn’t ruin his parachute and take away his only chance of survival.

“Bloody Kraut,” he muttered, rage melting on his face. If he found that pilot, he would shoot him on sight, disregarding the Geneva Convention completely.

He saw a silhouette on the horizon approaching him with great speed of his late Spitfire. He squinted his eyes, using one of his ace skills: eagle eyes. The incoming figure looked almost like a horse with wings. Not believing his own eyes, he shook his head and looked again. Yes, he wasn’t mad. He just saw a cyan horse with wings, a rainbow trail behind it.

What in the bloody hell is that!? He made a wry face. The ground was coming closer, too close to overlook.

He focused on his fall. Hallucination, and apparently, brain damage, could wait. Below him was a forest. He quickly angled his fall to the plain nearby, avoiding getting his parachute ripped up by a tree. He bent his knees and tucked into a roll as he hit the ground jarringly.

After shaking himself out of the impact-induced daze, he unstrapped his parachute. He still knew this as the bonny British Isles, his homeland. But as far as he knew, there wasn’t a mountain anywhere near southern England.

Then he heard a buzzing noise of an aero plane engine. Considering that he’d been followed down by that blasted Jerry. He knew he would have to duck it, hide, and observe as the situation unfold. He ran to a nearby bush and hid himself inside. He peeked out just in time to see the smoking German hulk careen past his hiding place.

That’s him. He thought, remembering the number and the text on the plane’s side; probably his girlfriend.

The Messerschmitt glided down and bellied out at the other end of the field. He heard a loud crash shortly after. The thought of checking the crash site came into his mind, but it faded when he saw, yet more of those strange creatures. A herd of colourful horses appeared seemingly from nowhere and made their cautious way towards to the crash site. the cerulean flying horse he had seen earlier flew amidst some peers to the crash site as well.

What the bloody hell are those things? He wondered in frustration, flabbergasted.

He drew his trusty Webley break-top Revolver, checking the .455 ammunition. Be ready for anything dangerous.

Now, wait for the coast to clear. He plotted his movement carefully as he tracked the movement of those horses.

He observed those colourful horses as they examined the “Messer.” They just circled around it and examined it; as if afraid it would come to life and fly again. They finally decided to leave after half an hour of prodding about the wreck, returning to wherever they had come from. When the last of them was out of his field of view, he jumped out of the bush he had hidden in.

Then he smelled something, something truly awful. It smelled like a mountain of rotten flesh and manure heaped upon a bed of coals. He wondered where the source of it was. He looked around for a moment before catching a glimpse of a green light lit in the forest. What he saw there shocked him. A wolf made of logs, branches and leaves prowled along the edge of the forest. Luckily, it didn’t seem to spot him. He jumped back in the bush, just peeking out, but he accidentally snapped a twig in the process. His heart skipped a beat. It heard the noise, and began approaching.

Bollocks… He swore in his head.

His brain commanded him to grab a rock and throw it as a distraction, so he obeyed. He picked up a decent-sized rock from the ground and threw it, as far as his strength allowed him to. Success! It turned away from the bush he was hiding in, towards the clatter of the stone through the branches. He waited for the beast to leave the area before creeping out of hiding.

That was way too close… He thought.

He let out a ‘phew’, and looked around. The only logical course of course was a get as far away from both the downed aircraft and that scary-looking wolf-thingy, so that’s what he did. Under the cover of the trees, he felt a little safer, and began walking casually, until he saw yet another odd sight. Before him stood a cottage that defied description. It looked as if a French cottage had a love-child with an oak, and the poor bastard was now firmly planted before him. As he stood, contemplating how a cottage and a tree may have such a child, the door at the front of the building opened, revealing a yellow coated horse with pink mane and… a pair of wings? It sniffed the air. He jumped in the bush again, avoiding its eye-line by inches. He decided that the bastard-tree-cottage-thing was yet another place to avoid, but before he could get around it, he heard gunshots from the distance, from the direction he had just come. Well, looks like Jerry met Mister Wolf, He chuckled to himself. The yellow horse thing, though, was less calm about the sharp sounds. It galloped past him to the source of sound.

At least Jerry went out with a bang…? He thought, not particularly caring.

He followed the yellow horse out of curiosity to the source of the gunfire. He reached the scene just in time to see the German pilot rammed by the wolf. The yellow horse gasped. It ran to the wolf and just stared at the beast with scary eyes. It flinched and backed away slowly, unable to withstand her glare.

Holy me mother… it could scare a predator just like that? he asked himself. Not a regular horse, then.

It mouth moved a bit. Then, the unbelievable thing happened. It spoke. It SHOUTED.

“HOW DARE YOU HURT HIM LIKE THAT? WHAT DID HE DO TO YOU!?” it yelled in rage at the wooden wolf, making it shrinked in fear.

His jaw dropped, surprised and startled by it. By her, undoubtedly. He had never seen a talking horse with wings before in his life. He shook his head to regain his sanity. This was not bonny old England…

“WHAT WOULD YOUR MOTHER AND FATHER THINK OF YOU? DOING THIS TO AN INNOCENT…” She cut at the end, turned awkwardly to the German pilot.

“Errr… w-what should I call you?” she asked the German pilot awkwardly.

“Ava…” the woozy German pilot muttered quietly.

“WHAT WOULD YOUR MOTHER AND FATHER THINK OF YOU! DOING THIS TO AN INNOCENT AVA!?” she continued where she left.

“Snrk” He almost laughed, but held it, careful not to alert them.

Whoa… this thing is very scary. he thought, observed the scene from the distance, crouched to avoid being seen.

“NOW RUN ALONG, AND DON’T EVER LET ME CATCH YOU DOING THIS AGAIN!” she yelled for the final time, before turning her attention to the German pilot.

“Poor thing” she muttered, nuzzling the German pilot, before grabbing the unconscious body and hauling him up into the air, flying toward the hiding spot of a very startled Englishman.

He saw it coming toward him, and he once again dove into the nearest bush, hoping for the two to pass without spotting him. He kept out of the bush again, noting the direction the yellow horse-thing had flown: She had dragged the German pilot to its cottage. He followed from the distance, not to alert her. She opened the door and dragged the injured pilot inside with muttered coos. He ran quietly to the cottage. He ducked under the window, peeking in from the corner. He saw the yellow horse and a white rabbit with a frown on its face along with a pair of angry eyes.

Hmmm… lunch, He thought with amusement rather than actual intent, before eavesdropping on her unsure words.

“I… I should check his condition, r… right Angel?” she asked the rabbit, inside the house.

“...” The rabbit agreed, apparently.

“O… Ok,” the yellow horse said shyly, and grabbed a first aid kit and walked to another room.

Suddenly, the rabbit turned to the window. He shrank back into his cover, almost detected by that strange little bunny.

This is getting weirder and weirder… he thought with a small grin on his face.

When he peeked out again, the bunny was gone. He thought it went to assist the yellow horse with the injured German pilot. He was wrong. He felt something poking his leg. He looked down and saw that weird bunny poking his leg. When he noticed it, it stared at him with that frowny face of his.

How did… It spotted me? How did it know that I’m here? He asked himself.

It stared at him. He stared back. Silence struck them both. The bunny couldn’t talk, he knew that, so he broke the ice and said

“What is it?” he asked the weird white bunny, staring at him.

“...” It continued to stare, then it blinked.

It stopped the stare and hopped back inside the cottage. He followed stealthily. He snuck into the cottage. It certainly looked much larger on the inside. The house was filled with animals’ cages and roosts, but his eyes were drawn to the couch at the corner, where the German pilot lay, unconscious.

There’s the bastard… he thought, his gun readied to fire. But something stopped him.

No, this isn’t right, he thought, remembering what his commander had said when he was in training.

“You are a fighter pilot, first, last, always. If I ever hear you shoot a parachuted man, I’ll shoot you myself,” his commander had growled. If one thing had stuck from that old man, it was his honour.

For him, the unconscious enemy was a parachuted pilot, already defeated. He lowered his Webley, looking at the knocked out assailant. The Kraut was patched up by the yellow horse, his pistol still in the holster. He smiled at the unconscious Kraut, his hatred vanishing.

“God bless you, Kraut,” he said to the unconscious pilot. “May we fight again, someday,” he said with a big smile on his face.

He heard footsteps coming. He quickly dashed to the window, opened it, and jumped out. Someone was in the room; he heard them walking to the window. The footsteps drew closer and closer. He positioned himself against the wall under the window, avoiding getting spotted.

“A… Angel,” she called the weird rabbit. So it was the horse thing after all... “What kind of creature did you see, spying on us?” it asked.

“...” Silence was the reply from the rabbit. Apparently, he preferred to communicate through the proud medium of charades.

“I… It’s v-very tall?” she asked. If she got it right, the bunny, Angel, stretched itself to be taller. It nodded.

“H… How tall is it?” she asked. The rabbit pointed at her, stretching itself much more than last time. “A- A lot t-taller t-than me?” she asked the rabbit. Again, it nodded, then ran around like a monkey, scratching its head. “A-And it look like an a-ape?” she guessed, The rabbit stopped acting like a monkey and nodded. “It’s coatless?” she asked. The rabbit answered in a nod. “And it wore clothes too?” she asked again. Yes, the rabbit nodded.

“T-The d-description you gave me matched the poor creature we just patched up, Angel!” she exclaimed. “Y-You didn’t think this poor little creature here,” She gestured towards the German pilot, still unconscious, “walked outside or tried to run away, do you?” she asked the rabbit.

“...” It shook its head in disagreement.

“There is another one?” she asked the rabbit. The rabbit nodded

Bloody hell… he swore to himself, starting to panic.

He crawled away from the cottage, hoping to escape without being spotted. The ground was soft enough for him to crawl silently. He made it to the nearest cover, yet another precious bush, 10 metres away from the cottage. He crouched inside the bush. Not a single soul seemed to be nearby, so it was really easy for him to sneak around undetected.

Suddenly, something hurtled into him. “Ouch!” he exclaimed in pain. Something had fallen on his head. He turned around to glower at the offending object.

A teacup? He wondered. How the dickens did that get here?

There was also an iron pot with a box labeled “Tea” wrapped within it, a water canister, a pack of sugar, and lastly, a carton of milk.

How convenient, and it’s about tea time… He thought as he checked his watch. He looked at all the ingredients and the tools used to brew tea. He glanced about him and saw a lot of things stashed in the bush he had hidden in. He saw several packs of snacks, a mini stove, a couple of match boxes, a small pack of coal, several cans of rations, a sleeping bag, a flashlight, and an oil lamp.

Who would stash these things here? He wondered. Oh, right, swastikas on all this kit…Jerry, I owe you a thank you, mate! I could spend a night here and wait for you to wake up. He planned his actions as he rummaged through the tools and food stashed in there.

He grabbed the mini stove above him and set it on the ground. He grabbed the pack of “smokeless coal” He took out a couple of pieces and placed them in the stove, hoping the label rang true. He stretched out and grabbed a box of matches, picking one out and striking it. The fire burst from the head in typically weak German sparks. He threw it at some dry grass and twigs under the coal, which burst into dull, but very smoky, flames. He grabbed the pot and poured water from its canister, placed the pot on the stove, and waited. A couple of minutes past, and the water was boiling. He poured some boiling water in the cup, put the teabag in, and waited. Five minutes past, he pulled the bag out and squeezed it with spoon, the tasty tea dripping down from the bag. He added the sugar and some milk, and completed successfully making himself a cup of tea.

An hour further, and the sun was setting. The beauty of this place was remarkable; somehow always peaceful, very different from England nowadays, bombed by the Krauts day and night. The country scenery here was almost better than the English countryside. Almost. Its colourfulness was amazing, but it was a bit too bright during the day. But amazingly beautiful at twilight for sure.

After a cup of tea and some snacking on the supplies inside the bush. He lit the oil lamp with a match. He grabbed the mini stove, placed some coal in, and lit it with another match from the box he used to light the lamp. He grabbed the rations and tried to read all the labels. Of course, it was all in German. How inconsiderate of them Jerry. Still, the pictures were easily discernible. He found a couple cans of vegetable soup, mashed potatoes, and some meat jerky. He opened those cans and heated them on the stove. He stirred the soup and put the jerky in the soup for more taste. After finishing his meal, he put out the fire and cleaned the things he had used. No use in being lazy. He cleared the ground and unrolled the sleeping bag. He crawled into its cozy warmth, blew the lamp out and slept.

Such a peculiarday… he thought before closing his eyes in the darkness.

Chapter 3: More ponies...

Chapter 3: More ponies…

Gerhard woke up; his vision was blurry. He shook the cobwebs out of his head, waking himself up further. It took a couple of seconds to adjust back to its original state. He heard a familiar noise: the loud roar of Messerschmitt’s engine. When his vision came back, he realized that he was in the cockpit of his ‘Eagle.’ The photo of his wife had been taped back to its original position. He smiled.

Ava, I miss you… he thought, looking at her face in the photo.

He took note of the surrounding outside. He was flying over sea. He looked ahead and saw an enormous white cliff standing out against the battering of the wind and the sea.

“Dover?”he muttered asking himself.

The cliff was enormous. Seagulls flew carelessly to their nests hanging on the cliff. Waves battered against the cliff, carving the white stone in the process. The docksides nearby were patrolled heavily with warships and armed boats fully occupying the docks. Anti-Aircraft batteries were emplaced everywhere, protecting the dock and the ships from Luftwaffe’s destruction.

I should report this to the HQ, he thought.The brass at BdU and Luftwaffe would love to know this. He moved his hand to the radio and tuned his radio to his airfield’s frequency. If he recalled correctly, the Messerschmitt’s Funkgerät 7 should be able to contact the base from his position.

“Hallo,” he greeted the radio operator on the other end.

*static*

“Hallo,” he repeated.

*static*

“HALLO!” he bellowed in anger, whacking his radio. Where was the radio operator? I swear if I ever get back, I’ll have him court-martialed… he thought furiously, sighing in frustration.

The static he heard was gone, replaced by a happy-sounding song. He whacked his radio again to fix it; beating the electrical ware always seems to work. The song was still playing.

To hell with this. I should fly back and tell them myself… he thought.

He looked outside the cockpit and spotted nothing in the air around him. He stepped on the pedals with his feet, trying to turn the aircraft around, but nothing happened. He pushed it again, and yet it did not respond. He pushed his flight stick down, hoping it would obey the command given. Again, it did not respond. His aircraft was still flying downwards, towards the town.

“Scheiße!” he swore, rage building up in his head. He calmed himself down and began to look for the source of the problem.

As he was looking for whatever was wrong, a cyan blur flew out of nowhere. It flew beside his plane, stopping and appearing to look at him. He took a better look at it. Strangely, it looked like a pegasus. Its coat was cerulean, and its mane (he believed that was what it was called) was in the entire color spectrum, as well as its tail. It had a pair of feathery wings, and a pair of magenta eyes.

“Hey!” it called out, tapping the canopy lightly.

He remembered what it was, a pegasus pony. He had a strange feeling, like he had seen it before. He tried to look back in his memory, but could only remember one thing.

He was gliding down from the sky before he bellied out and saw a cerulean pony flying near him while he was descending.

This is a dream for sure, he concluded, pinching his cheek to prove his theory.

It was painless, his suspicion confirmed. He closed his eyes and wait for himself to wake up, confident it would happen.

*****

Gerhard woke up, this time inside of a house. He refreshed his memory. He was patched up yesterday by a pegasus pony named Fluttershy, whom he recalled, was quite nice. He slowly rose to sit on the couch, trying to drive away the drowsiness. He blinked a couple of times to drive away the eye crisp and noticed dozens of animals around him.

So that was real… he thought.

“Err… g-good morning, Mr. Barkhorn,” a familiar voice came from the door. It was Fluttershy.

“Guten Morgen, Fräulein, (Good morning, miss,)” he greeted and gave her a tiny wave of his hand.

“Er.. Good morning, Miss,” he corrected himself as he noticed Fluttershy was giving him confused look.

Her confusion quickly went away the moment when he had corrected himself. He stood up and stretched, producing multiple cracks in the process, startling poor Fluttershy.

How cute… he thought, accidentally letting out a small chuckle.

He blew those thoughts away and continued on his exercises. He started with push-ups, and then squatted. After a couple of minutes, he stopped and sat up. He panted lightly, and he felt refreshed and healthy again. Even though the injuries from yesterday were haunting him, he held off the pain the best he could.

He looked outside, noticing that it was already morning. The sun had just risen, shining its golden rays through the window. The dew on the leaves reflected the ray of the sun, shining a bright gold as birds flew happily in the sky.

Fluttershy observed him doing exercises, wondering what he would do next. He turned to Fluttershy when he finished his routine.

“Would you mind if I go out for a run?” he asked, pointing outside.

“Umm… no… I don’t mind at all,” she replied, giving Gerhard a small smile of approval.

“I’ll be back within half an hour,” he stated as he checked his gears, and departed. When he was finally outside, he did another stretch and he jogged away from the cottage slowly, conserving his energy.

On the way back, he heard a movement from the bush as he jogged past it, he swore he could smell the sweet essence of food from within.

That might be a meat-eating bush, he joked and rolled his eyes. I should check it out anyway.

He slowed down a bit and approached the bush. He wasn’t really the sneaky type; his footsteps could still be heard clearly. Then suddenly, an audible mumble emitted from the bush.

“Take that, Jerry!” the voice shouted from the bush. It made Gerhard jumped in surprise. He pulled out his sidearm cautiously.

He took a peek inside; what he saw shocked him: a man was sleeping inside the bush. Iconic blue uniform of the RAF (Royal Air Force), British pilot. He also saw some cans and tools lying around on the ground.

Tommy sleeping in the bush with survival kit? he chanted amusingly. Interesting… He smirked deviously and stepped inside the bush, being as stealthy as possible. He cocked his pistol and pointed it at the British pilot head.

“Rise und shine, Tommy,” said Gerhard, lightly slapped the British pilot’s face to wake him up.

The British pilot woke up, slowly opening his eyes. He quickly grabbed his Webley when he saw Gerhard.

“Easy there. Mein trigger finger ist nicht stabil,” Gerhard warned, pressing his Walther at the British man’s forehead. “Nun, why are you hiding hier?” he asked.

“Why ask? You’re the one that shot me down!” he spat sarcastically.

“So, you’re that ace,” Gerhard said as he nodded continuously. “How’re you doing? No injury?”

“Lovely,” again, a disparaging response. “Now, CAN YE PUT THAT BLOODY THING AWAY?!” he yelled, pointing at the Gerhard’s Walther.

“Ordnung,” said Gerhard. “Don’t try anything stupid,” he warned before holstering his gun.

“Much appreciated,” he thanked. “Now, I saw a barmy thing yesterday.”

“Was war es? (What was it?)” Gerhard asked, quirking his brow.

“A yellow horse wit’ wings saved yer life from that mangy beast!” he exclaimed, “an’ evin patched yer ninny arse up too!”

“Firstly, Tommy,” Gerhard started, moving to a more comfortable pose. Technically, he shouldn’t show weakness to the enemy, but this was an exception. “‘Sie ist ein pony, not a horse,” he corrected, “und sie ist eine wunderbare Fräulein (and she’s a wonderful lady), I assure you that, Und… she could talk too,” he quickly added.

“Yer bum’s oot the windae!” he exclaimed. “Horses cannot talk!” An objection was given: “shaken, not stirred” style.

“Did you not hear, Tommy? I said pony,” Gerhard corrected him.

“Urg… Fine…” he sighed, massaging his temples to lessen the headache; he hated morning. “How could a pony possibly talk?” he inquired.

“I HAVE NO IDEA!” Gerhard gave a shout as answer, laughing maniacally right after.

“I must be dreaming…” he murmured with his hand on his face. Gerhard heard that. So, he slapped the British ace’s cheek hard.

He groaned in pain, rubbing his cheek. It had gone red from the brute force impact. “Why on earth would ye do that, ye nutter!?” He made a stink eyes, staring at Gerhard furiously.

“Es ist nicht ein dream, Tommy,” Gerhard answered. “Wir are trapped hier, in einem land full of multi-coloured ponies…” he explained. “So, temporary Cease-Feuer?” he suggested, offering a handshake.

The British ace hesitated for a moment before giving in and accepted the handshake. “Can I sleep in that hor — I mean pony,” he quickly corrected himself. “Can I sleep in that pony’s cottage tonight?” he asked, “I slept in ‘nis bush the whole night long.” His tone lowered. “An’ as yer can see: I slept in a BLOODY SLEEPIN’ BAG!” He burst into ranting, pointing at his sleeping bag and cussed rudely.

“AND IT’S ON THE BLOODY GROUND! BY THE KING’S NAME, IT’S NOT A SINGLE BIT COMFORTABLE! AND IT WAS COLD AS HELL!” He stopped to catch a breath after a long rant, adjusting his tie and returning to his calm demeanor.

“Err… Fine, follow me…” said Gerhard, feeling strangely uncomfortable.

“Jolly good.”

Gerhard walked back to the cottage along with the British ace. The bush was just about ten metres away from the cottage.

“Also, was ist your name, Tommy?” Gerhard started.

“Me name’s Thomas, Thomas McMorrow,” he introduced, pounding his chest gently. “Friends call me Tom, but yae isnae me friend. Dinnae even call me with yer German wheesht, Jerry.”

“I’ll stick mit Tommy, then.”

They arrived at Fluttershy’s cottage. Gerhard knocked the door. There came a mysterious female voice from inside, and it wasn’t Fluttershy’s.

“I’ll get it, Fluttershy,” the mysterious pony said. “Who would it be this early?”

Both aces froze in place when they heard that voice. The door had been opened; a lavender unicorn with dark purple mane and a stripe of pink highlight ran down her mane stood at the door. She just stood there and gazed at both aces, confusion and fear visible on her face. She just stood there and stared at them. Gerhard decided to break the silence. “Hallo, miss.”

“T… Twilight, who is it?” Fluttershy’s voice came from inside the house, approaching the doorway. “Oh, welcome back, Mr. Barkhorn,” she greeted when she saw the German pilot outside the cottage. “W..Who is he?” she asked “Umm, If you want to tell me, of course,” she added shyly.

“Uh… can we go inside, miss?” Thomas asked. “It’s cold out here.”

‘Twilight’ fainted. Both aces were shocked by her.

“O-Oh, my…” Fluttershy exclaimed “C-C-Could you carry h-her to the couch?”

Gerhard nodded and scooped her up on his arm. They walked into the living room. Gerhard put Twilight down on one couch while Thomas sat down on the opposite one.

“Umm, Mr. Barkhorn, would your friend like to have some tea?” Fluttershy entered the room and asked, waiting for the answer.

“That would be excellent, miss..?” Thomas answered

“M-My name is Fluttershy,” she introduced herself audibly this time. “Umm, and you?” she asked back.

“Me name is Thomas, Thomas McMorrow, pilot and ace of Wing 127. You can call me ‘Tommy,’” he added, moving his hand forward to shake Fluttershy’s hoof. The yellow coated pony was startled by the sudden movement and let out an ‘eep’.

“N..Nice to meet you umm, Tommy,” she said shyly, as usual. “Umm, would you like some tea?”

“That would be brilliant,” Thomas said. Then Fluttershy trotted to the kitchen. “Two cubes and some milk, please!” he added when she was inside the kitchen.

“Err, Tommy,” Gerhard said, “I should introduce myself as well. My name is Gerhard Barkhorn, ace of Jagdgeschwader 52, or Fighter Wing 52 and you could call me ‘Jerry’ like you always do, Tommy.”

Fluttershy came back with a tray containing a tea kettle and four empty cups. She put the tray on the table and poured the hot tea in each cup. She handed the first cup to Tommy.

“Thank you.” Thomas smiled at her. Despite it being very hot, he took a small sip. “This is amazing!” he said, praising her tea brewing skills. “You could best my favourite cafe in London easily!” His further praise turned her yellow coat to cherry red in the process.

“Ummm, i-it’s… n-n-nothing,” Fluttershy said shyly, trying to hide behind her curtain-like pink mane.

“I think she would fly by now, Tommy,” Gerhard said. “Und how’s our Fräulein (lady)?” he asked, gesturing his hand towards Twilight. “I think we owe her an explanation,” he said. Twilight woke up right after he finished his sentence. She slowly opened her eyes and massaged her temples, trying to refresh her memory.

“Fluttershy, I just had a strange drea—” she froze before she finished the sentence as she noticed the two aces staring at her with awe.

Thomas facepalmed. “Oh lass, please don’t faint this time.”

“WHAT ARE YOU CREATURES!?” Twilight yelled, pointing her fore hooves to both aces. “Fluttershy get behind me!” she yelled and ran to the corner of the room, away from both aces.

“Calm down, Fräulein (Miss),” Gerhard said.

“Let me explain this, Jerry,” Thomas said to Gerhard. “Now, lass, here’s the thing: I’ve been shot down by from the sky b—”

“You don’t have wings!” she exclaimed, abruptly interrupting Tommy. “How could you fly without wings?!” she asked.

“Let me finish first…” Thomas said. Twilight simply nodded in response.

“As I said: shot down by him. I bailed and hit the silk.” Twilight was going to interrupt again. He raised his hand, gesturing the purple unicorn to let him finish. “I hid in the bush when I heard his Bf 109. He was gettin’ pounded by some kind o’ wolf, but luckily it didn’t spot me. So I threw a rock to distract it, and then that wooden wolf found him.” Gerhard squinted at him, looking angry. “Ey! I didn’t do that on purpose!” Thomas exclaimed. “So, Fluttershy heard it. She ran over there and scared that… thing away, saved his German arse, and patched him up. I followed her here and slept in the bush outside, over there.” He pointed at one of the bushes outside. “Then he found me sleeping in the damn bush, just earlier today.”

“Now, the questions. One by one, bitte (please),” Gerhard said.

“What are you?” Twilight asked.

“We’re humans, intelligent bipedal creatures,” Thomas answered

“And how do you fly? I see no wings on you,” Twilight asked. Fluttershy looked eager to know this too.

“We use das maschine (machine) called ‘Flugzeug’ (Plane),” Gerhard answered. “Er, I mean ‘plane’,” he corrected. “Excuse my mother language. It’s called German,” he explained when he saw the questioning look on Twilight’s face.

“That sounds like Germane…” Twilight muttered.

“And the plane I flew crash landed in the field yesterday,” Gerhard said, totally ignoring that comment.

“But mine crashed and exploded. I think it’s in the forest…” Thomas said. “Poor Edith, she was so fast, so beautiful…” he added with a saddened voice.

“Don’t be so sad, Tommy,” Gerhard said while patting his back. “I could lend you mine!” he joked. Thomas returned with a squint.

“Ha! real funny,” Thomas said. “Anyway, let’s go check your ‘Messer’.”

“Ja (Yes).” Gerhard said and stood up. “I think you would want to see her, she’s beautiful.” He noticed Twilight’s smile. “Let’s go, shouldn’t keep her waiting.”

“Fluttershy, would you like to come along?” Twilight asked.

“Umm, I guess so,” Fluttershy replied.

They all left the cottage and walked towards the field where Gerhard crash landed his plane. They reached the field and saw the wreck at the distance. A small crowd gathered around it. Both aces ran to the wreck.

“Anypony know, what’s this thing?” Mayor Mare asked the crowd, no answer came back. “Anypony?”

“Halten! (Halt!),” Gerhard shouted at the top of his lungs. the crowd turned their attention to him. They looked at him with fear and confusion visibly in their eyes. “Don’t you dare touch mein plane!” he yelled, approaching the crowd, which made them back away, except for the cyan coated pony with rainbow mane which he saw in his dream and while he was falling to his death.

“Hey! I remember you,” the pony hovered up from the crowd, pointed her hoof at him “You’re the creature in it!”

“Ja,” Gerhard said. “I’m the one that flew this beast. Now, would you ponies please give her some space here?” The crowd backed away for a couple of metres.

Twilight, Fluttershy, and Thomas arrived at the scene shortly after. Thomas looked at the wrecked aircraft.

“Whoa, I never really have had a chance to look at it this close!” Thomas exclaimed.

“EVERYPONY!” Twilight yelled, with some help from her magic to increase her speech volume. The crowd had been startled by her loud voice. “They’re humans…”

“I knew it, they’re real!” a mint green pony with short mane shouted. “Bon Bon! You owe me 50 bits!” A cream coat pony with blue and pink curly mane grunted and gave her friend a bag of coins.

“… They mean no harm. They just crashed their flying machines and are stuck here.” Twilight continued her announcement, after she had been rudely interrupted. Chattering came from the crowd afterward.

“Thanks for that,” Gerhard said.

“No problem,” she replied with a tiny smile.

The crowd began to disperse, except for the rainbow-maned pegasus, an orange pony wearing a cowboy hat, a pale unicorn with styled purple mane, a pink pony with puffy pink mane, the mint green pony from earlier, and the cream-coated pony with blue and pink curly mane.

The pale unicorn with styled purple mane gasped in shock. “Wah ah hahh!” she screamed and fell on the ground. “Oh, by Celestia! Darling, what happened to your clothes?! This is a crime against fashion! I’ll fix it for you right away!” She levitated Gerhard off the ground and ran away.

“Hold ya’ horses, lass!” Thomas shouted, trying to stop the pale unicorn. He got her attention, and she walked back to the scene.

“Oh by Celestia!” she exclaimed. “Your clothes should be fixed too!” She levitated Thomas with her magic and carried both aces with her.

“Hey, Fräulein!” Gerhard called the pale unicorn. “Put me down, please!”

“It’s Rarity, darling,” she introduced herself as she dropped both aces on the hard ground. “What about yours, dear?”

“Ich heiße Gerhard Barkhorn,” Gerhard said, getting up from the ground. “I mean, my name is Gerhard Barkhorn,” he corrected “Ace of Jagdgeschwader 52, Luftwaffe,” he said “Umm… I mean Fighter Wing 52, German Air Force,” he corrected himself “Excuse my mother language,” he said and helped Thomas to stand up.

“And I’m Thomas, Thomas McMorrow, Ace of Wing 127, Royal Air Force,” he said, finally standing up properly. “Call me Tommy.”

“So, you are both flyers?” asked the rainbow mane pegasus.

“Pilots,” Gerhard and Thomas said in unison.

“I only saw you in it.” She pointed at Gerhard. “But I think I saw another flying thing as well.”

“Dieses ist mein (This is mine),” Gerhard claimed.

“Sadly, my poor Spitfire crashed in the forest,” Thomas said with a frown. The Rainbow-maned pegasus seems surprised. “What?” he said in response to her reaction.

“Did you call the flying machine ‘Spitfire’?” she asked.

“Yes, what wrong about it?” he answered.

“I know a pony name Spitfire,” she said.

“Is that so?” he said.

“Enough with the little chit-chat, darling!” Rarity exclaimed. “Would you care to tell me, what in Tartarus happened to your clothes!?” she asked, pointing at Gerhard. His leather jacket had been torn into a big piece of rag. His uniform’s jacket had three lines cut into it.

“‘Wooden wolf attacked yesterday,” he replied. The remaining ponies except Fluttershy gasped. “It came alone out of nowhere and attacked me,” he went into deeper detail. “And it turned out to be that the wolf was lured away from him!” he pointed at Thomas. “He threw a rock to distract it, and it wandered to me!”

“Hey!” Thomas spoke up, “I didn’t do that on purpose, ok?”

“Ja, whatever…” He rolled his eyes.

“My name is Pinkie Pie. Nice to meet you both! Ohhh, you are new here, so I could throw you a party and because you had just arrived! I’m going to throw you a welcome to Ponyville party! There’ll be cupcakes. Do you like cupcake? I love cupcake so much! I ate like 20 of them last week—” She was stopped by the orange pony with blonde mane wearing a hat.

“Tha’ would be enough, Pinkie Pah,” she said with a southern accent. “Ah’m Applejack, nice to meet ya’ two,” she said. “Ah work at the Sweet Apple Acres right over thar! Ya two are always welcome to ma’ place!” she shook the two aces hand violently.

“N-Nice t-to m-meet y-you t-too, m-miss,” Thomas said, his voice shaking by her violent hoof shake.

“Hey, I’m Rainbow Dash,” the rainbow maned-pegasus said, “the fastest flyer in Equestria!”

“I bet my Spitfire is faster, but too bad she crashed yesterday,” Thomas said sadly.

“I’m sorry for that, but I know what would make you feel better!” Pinkie paused for a moment. “A PARTY!” Confetti appeared out of nowhere with blows of Trumpet, which made both aces jump, in confusion. “I must go prepare your ‘welcome to Ponyville’ party! Bye!” she finished and bounced away, leaving a smoke in her body shape behind.

“W-What?” Both aces exclaimed in unison.

“Oh, don’t worry,” Twilight said, calming them a bit “She’s just being Pinkie Pie. No one really know how she does it.”

Gerhard’s stomach growled violently. Fluttershy jumped and ‘eeped’, startled by the noise.

“Oh.” Gerhard put both hands on his stomach. “We haven’t had breakfast yet, have we?”

“No,” Thomas replied. “Let’s dig something up.”

“I still have some rations left at Miss Fluttershy’s cottage,” Gerhard said. “You mind German rations?” he asked.

“I could eat anything,” Thomas said, “as long as it’s food and not poisonous.”

“I need to run back there then,” Gerhard said.

“No need. I could go fetch it in ten seconds flat…” she boasted. “How does it look like?” she asked.

“Small green metal box with a write print of eagle on it,” he described the survival kit.

“Your ten seconds start…” Thomas said, looking at his wrist watch. “NOW!”

Rainbow Dash’s wings started flapping furiously as she soared through the air and flew towards Fluttershy’s cottage.

one… two… three… four… five… She reached the cottage, barging in through the window.Without wasting any precious time, she zipped back. six… seven… eight… nine…

ten… Rainbow Dash landed in front of Thomas and threw the box at Gerhard. He caught it perfectly in midair.

“Ten. Seconds. Flat,” she said, no sign of sweat visible on her coat.

“Wow…” Thomas awed “That was brilliant! We’re going to be good friends!”

“Indeed” she chuckled.

Gerhard opened it, grabbed two cans, and closed it. The label read ‘Hasenpfeffer’ and ‘Kartoffelsalat’. He forgot one thing: how would he heat it without fire? Thomas noticed this, so he asked Rainbow Dash.

“Miss Dash, could you go fetch a ‘mini stove’ from the bush, it’s about 10 metres from Miss Fluttershy’s cottage,” he asked.

“Will do.” She lifted off and flew back to Fluttershy’s cottage. Silence fell upon the crash site.

“So,” Twilight broke the silence, “what’s that?”

“Hasenpfeffer und Kartoffelsalat,” Gerhard answered. Rainbow Dash came back with the ‘mini stove’. She handed it to him. He set it on the ground. “I need Feuer (fire),” he said.

“Here.” Twilight used a spell, her horn glowing in purple. In a matter of seconds, purple fire lit the stove.

“Danke (Thanks).” He unsheathed his knife from its sheath in his boot, which frightened them. He stabbed both cans and pried them open, revealing the contents inside. The first can held creamed mashed mass, the second one held brown medium-sized rabbit meat with some vegetables. He sheathed his knife back in his boot. He put both cans on the stove, and a few minutes later, they were heated enough to take them out. “Could you put out the fire please?” he asked, Twilight complied and put out her magical fire. “We share half of each can, ja?” Thomas and handed him Hasenpfeffer.

“Understood.” Thomas accepted the can. He ate half of the meat and vegetable. At the same time, Gerhard grabbed a mashed piece of potato and scooped it up to his mouth. After he finished, he traded it with Hasenpfeffer.

“Darling, that looks delicious!” Rarity exclaimed. “Could I have a tiny bit please?”

“This isn’t what ponies should eat,” he said. “You eat vegetables, hay, and things like that, right?”

“That’s right, darling.”

“You wouldn’t want to know what it is,” Thomas said with his mouth full.

“Of course I do, darling,” she said.

“You had been warned,” Thomas cut in before Gerhard could answer.

“It’s rabbit.”

“What was that?” she asked. “I think my ears are deceiving me; I think heard ‘rabbit.’”

“Nothing wrong with your ears, miss,” Thomas said. “He really said rabbit.”

“Right” Gerhard exclaimed. Everything went silent, except for the birds chirping and the sounds of a slight breeze. Fluttershy bobbed her head dizzily before falling down on the soft, grassy ground.

“Why didn’t you warn me!?” she asked angrily. Both aces facepalmed.

“I did warn you!” Thomas crossed his arms. Gerhard quickly ate the remaining meat in the can.

“Now, that we finished unser (our) breakfast,” Gerhard quickly change the topic. “Let’s find somewhere for Tommy to sleep at night.”

“Right, I slept in the bloody bush last night,” Thomas muttered.

“He could stay at my house!” the mint green unicorn shouted.

“Really!?” Thomas excitedly exclaimed. He ran to the unicorn, and asked her “Are you really serious?”

“Yeah,” she answered and smiled upon him.

“Thank you! Thanks a billion times!” He smiled and hugged her. “What’s your name?”

“Lyra, Lyra Heartstring,” she answered. “No needs to be formal, just call me Lyra,” she added.

“OK! Lyra!” he happily exclaimed and hugged Lyra even tighter.

“UFF,” she grunted “I — I — can’t — breath.” Everypony including Gerhard stared at the overexcited ace.

“Oh, sorry.” He released Lyra from his deadly hug. She took a deep breath when freed from the hug “I owe you a lot!” he said

“It’s nothing, I have always dreamed of living with human.” She smiled, even though he almost broke her ribs.

“I must repay you somehow!” he exclaimed

“If you insist,” she said, thinking about what she could possibly want. “Ah! How about you help me with my research!” Her friend, the cream pony with curly blue and pink mane stared at her.

“Will do!” he happily replied.

Gerhard could only watch his overexcited temporary ally talking with Lyra. He smelled something, something horrid. He immediately remembered that smell, the abomination that almost killed him. He unbuttoned his holster, pulled out his Walther, and unlocked the safety. Thomas seemed to notice the stench as well, so he pulled out his Webley and cocked it. The ponies also smelled it too and seemed to know what it was. He waited for it to show itself. A howl and barking could be heard in the distance.

“Timberwolves!” Rainbow Dash shouted.

The ponies shivered violently, but Applejack and Rainbow Dash braced themselves for the attack. Applejack formed a pile of rocks, and Rainbow Dash flew up and looked for the wolves. Fluttershy hid behind her curtain-like mane, shivering and crying quietly. Lyra hugged her shivering friend. Rarity froze on the spot, shivering. From the trees, birds erupted from their nest. The howls and barks moved closer to the edge of the forest. Fluttershy’s shivering became more violent. Shadows and figures lurked around the forest, preparing for the attack. Gerhard released his magazine, checking how many he got: three shots left inside the magazine, and one already inside the chamber. He shoved the magazine back inside.

Seven Timberwolves leapt from the line of trees, attacking in pack this time. They barked at him and Tommy, probably marked as their quarry. Two of them charged at Gerhard, leaving him little time to dodge. He put a quick shot at one of the them, hit directly at its chest, resulted in a trip and broke apart. He barely dodged the second wolf’s charge, but got a chance to deliver a kick to its stomach. It lost balance and rolled on the ground. He aimed and shot the beast. The bullet pierced the creature’s head, breaking it into a thousand pieces of wood.

Two down, five to go, he thought.

A brave wolf stepped forward and charged the British ace. He cocked his revolver and shot it. The ‘bang’ from his gun was louder than Gerhard’s. The shot flew past its head as It evaded his bullet. He cocked his gun again and shot it, missing again. It leapt into the air, trying to pounce him. It was hit by multiple rocks, thrown from Applejack.

“Thanks!” he shouted and executed the wolf lying at his feet.

“No prob’, Tommy!” she exclaimed and kicked more rocks at the remaining wolf.

Three down, four to go, Gerhard thought and turned from his friend to the remaining wolves.

The remaining wolves decided not to attack the aces, but turned their attention to the ponies instead. The remaining wolves charged to Rarity, who was still frozen in place. Twilight cast a spell to the wolves, which hit one of them, paralyzing the wolf in place. Rainbow Dash dove down and delivered a double kick to the fastest wolf. It flew aside from the brute force and broke into pieces.

Abruptly, a loud trumpet erupted. The two remaining wolves were blasted away. It was Pinkie Pie with an 18th century cannon, cerulean coloured with two pink wheels, and a two-inches fuse plugged into the barrel.

“Let’s party Pinkie Pie style!” she exclaimed.

Gerhard aimed at the fallen beast’s head and shot it, his last bullet instantly executing it. He grabbed a fully loaded magazine from one of his pockets, release the empty one, insert the loaded one in and pull the slide, it made a ‘click’ sound.

“I think that’s all of them,” Tommy said and blew his Webley’s barrel; Wild West style. He holstered his trusty revolver and buttoned the holster in a flash. He sighed, still feeling adrenaline rushing in his veins.

But it wasn’t over; the fallen wolves had somehow glued themselves back into an enormous wooden wolf. It howled and growled at them; its smelly saliva splattered everywhere. It decided to eliminate Gerhard first. It charged in and prepared to attack.

“Scheiße… (Shit).”

Chapter 4: Nightmare in the locked patience room

Chapter 4: Nightmare in the Locked Patient’s Room

The resurrected wooden wolf was charging in, its speed increasing as it neared him. Gerhard couldn’t dodge in time. The impact was critical; he flew through the air and fell on the grassy ground of the field. He grunted painfully, his ribcage cracked from the landing. Bruises and lesions scattered all over his body; some were bleeding. The broken arm from the belly-out struck even more pain to his limb. He lost grip of his Walther during his flight, but he still got his knife sheathed safely in his boot. The wolf ran to him, ready to leap and tear him apart.

Tommy drew his Webley from the holster and cocked it. He took aim at the enormous beast’s head and pulled the trigger. The .455 lead projectile penetrated its neck, the wolf flinched from the shot, but it didn’t deal much damage to the creature. It turned its attention to him, switching from the injured Gerhard to the British ace. It quickly approach him in a zigzag line, circling around to confuse him.

He cocked his gun, preparing to take another shot. His eyes fixed upon the ferocious beast, trying to predict its movements. It leapt into the air, readied to tear him apart with its sharp wooden claws. He took this opportunity to kill it. He had salvoed every single bullet left in the cylinder before he barely dodged the beast’s pounce. Thomas’ salvo was effective. It groaned painfully and fell on the ground with a loud thud.

“DIE! YOU DEVILISH ABOMINATION!” he shouted victoriously.

It was still struggling to get up and kill both aces and the ponies. While it was trying to get up, he grabbed a fistful of bullets from his pocket. He broke the revolver top open, the shells springing out automaticly. He quickly inserting the bullets into the chambers. The wooden beast finally got up from the ground, trying to catch its bearing. It found where Tommy was and immediately charged him, trying to kill the British man. It leapt into the air in between. He was still loading the last two chambers, struggling to push the bullets in each chamber.

Gerhard still got some consciousness left. He hastily pulled his knife out. It was a good-sized gravity knife, the Luftwaffe’s eagle engraved on the handle. He flipped the small lever to the other side, spun it, and the blade popped out from the handle. He flipped the small lever back, locking the blade in place.

“Auf Wiedersehen, meine Messer (Goodbye, my knife).” he kissed it and threw it at the wolf.

Thomas knew immediately what gerhard was doing. He flung the revolver’s top back, locked it in place, and cocked it. He dropped on the ground, prepared to defend himself. If Gerhard missed, he would be ready to counter the beast. The knife cut through the thin air to its target. It met the beast’s head, cutting through the thick wood like butter. He salvoed half of the cylinder to be sure, resulting in the beast’s downfall. Its soul left the body midair, leaving hundreds of lifeless wooden bits behind. The remaining of the late beast fell on the British ace, causing many massive bruises to his body.

The last gunshot still echoed on the edge of the forest. Everything seemed to freeze in their places, except Gerhard. He was groaning in pain, all the injuries inflicted upon him causing great pain.

“H… Help!” He shouted with all his remaining power. “D-Doktor!” he shouted again to get everyone and everypony attention.

“Yes?” a mysterious voice replied from the bush; it was male for sure.

“No! Doctor, he didn’t mean you,” another mysterious voice scolded quietly from the same bush, this one was female.

“Whoops, my bad Ms. Hooves,” he said.

The ponies heard Gerhard’s scream. They ran to him and quickly, followed by Thomas. He began to blackout, his consciousness starting to fade from the blood loss.

“Quick! We need to get him to the hospital!” Twilight said as she lifted him up with her levitation magic. He grunted quietly. His consciousness was fading more and more every second.

“Too late!” Thomas exclaimed. “Put him down, I could do something.” he ordered. “Fetch me his survival kit!” he ordered, Rainbow Dash hastily picked the box and handed it to him

He ripped his jacket off, this made Rarity gasp and dramatically faint. He examined the German ace’s condition, he got a fairly big stab wound on his right shoulder , many cuts and a broken bone. He took the survival kit from Rainbow Dash and opened it, the last ration and other medical tools. Luckily, before the war he was a doctor. He put on the sterilized gloves on and grabbed a roll of bandage.

“Can you hear me!?” Thomas quickly asked “If you do, give me a sign” Gerhard winked, Thomas satisfied with the respond and continue to patch him up.

“L-Let me help” Fluttershy offered.

“Do you have any experience in this?” he asked, Fluttershy just nodded to reply. “Alright Miss, hold the pressure on his stab wound” he instructed and move Gerhard‘s arm a bit above his heart.

“O-Ok” she followed what she had been told and press the wound, that made Gerhard grunted.

“Stay with me, Jerry. You’ll survive,” he said to boost Gerhard’s morale.

The other ponies stood there, but they had no experience to patch the injured Gerhard. Thomas continued to treat other wounds. He chose to stitch the cut first. He inspected every cut and identified which were deep and shallow. He took out the needle and the surgical string, seems to be covered in dried blood. He was trying to thread the bloodied surgical string, struggling to do so. Rarity suddenly awoke from her faint and levitated both objects from his hands.

“Here, let me help you with that, darling.” She easily threaded the string into the hole.

“Thank you,” he accept the needle back and started stitching the deep cut. “Jerry, you might need this.” He put a piece of bandage in Gerhard’s mouth to prevent him from biting his tongue off. He started to stitch the first cut on Gerhard’s chest. “You’re a seamstress or something, ma’am?” he asked while he was stitching.

“Oh darling! I’m a proud fashionista of Ponyville, maybe even the best in the whole Equestria!” she claimed.

“Alright,” he exclaimed. “That explains why you acted like a loony when you saw our clothes,” he muttered quietly.

“What was that, darling?” she asked

“Nothing...” he said, finishing the last cut.

“Liar!” Applejack shouted. “Mista’, Ah’ could smell a lie a miles away!”

“Could ya save that for later!?” Rainbow Dash said. “We got a casualty here!” She pointed at Gerhard.

The bleeding seemed to have stopped. He grabbed some more bandages and a roll of tape from the box.

“Ms. Fluttershy,” he called her. “Keep the pressure on, I’ll wrap some more bandages.” She nodded and moved a bit, giving Thomas some space to work.

He wrapped the stab wound with the bandage and taped it tightly, but not too tight. Gerhard took a deep breath and sighed, feeling safe at last. Thomas continue to the broken arm. It was’t as serious as the stab.

“Jerry, brace yourself,” he warned Gerhard before grabbing the broken arm. Gerhard nodded and close his eyes, preparing for the pain that would start soon. “One, two, three!” He bent the bone back to the straight line as it was before. Gerhard’s muttered scream could be heard.

“Hold him!” Fluttershy ordered, completely forgetting about her shyness. Her friends obeyed and held down the poor man still. Gerhard screamed and shivered painfully. It died down after a couple of seconds.

The poor ace panted. After the pain was gone, he spat the bandage out of his mouth, His pant slowly died away.

“M-M-My k-k-knife,” Gerhard said, the pain affecting his voice. “G-G-et my knife.” Thomas nodded and walked away.

He pulled the knife from the remains of the beast. Some kind of green goo adhered to the blade. He swung the knife horizontally, hoping to get rid of it. The result came out opposite of what he wanted, it blended with the metal blade. The silver blade merged with the green substance, and it was emitting green light. He was going to ask the ponies, as they might have been able to answer his question. But then, he got a crazy idea.

I should cut something to test it, he thought and walked to the nearby tree. He slashed it, but nothing happened. It left an ordinary slash, nothing special. He walked back to Gerhard. He crouched down and handed him the knife.

“F-Flick the lever, I-It’ll retract back inside...” he instructed, his voice barely audible. Thomas did as he said, and it retracted inside. “P-P-Put it in meine(my) boot.” Thomas obeyed and stood back up. He saluted the fallen ace, then looked at the ponies.

“Everyone!” he spoke up, his shout got the ponies attention. “Is there any hospital nearby?” he asked, and took off the bloody gloves.

“That’s what I was doing!” Twilight exclaimed. “I was going to teleport him to the hospital when you stopped me!”

“Oh, sorry...” he said. “Anyway, we should to get him there immediately,” he suggested. “I’ve done what I can. Now, let’s go.”

“I only have enough power to teleport two at once. That includes myself,” Twilight said. “I’ll take him to the hospital Girls, could you guide him there?” she asked.

“No prob’, sugarcube,” Applejack nodded.

Twilight teleported away. The light from the teleport almost blinded him. He blinked a few times in attempt to regain his vision. Applejack tapped on his hip, getting her attention. He turned to her.

“Er... Sugarcube, Ah’ think we should git’ going.”

“Lead the way,” he replied and then followed Applejack.

They walked and... trotted to the village. It was a long way from the crash-site to the village. They used the dirt road; the road lined on the edge of an apple orchard. Streams flowed through the orchard, ending at a big round lake. They passed a barn, which probably housed cows, from the smell of it.

“So…” Rainbow Dash broke the silence. “How did you know him?” she asked, the others look really curious too.

“Just yesterday,” he answered “He escorted the bombers to bomb our capital, London.” They gasped

“W-Why would he do t-that?” Fluttershy asked

“He was doing his duty...” he answered. “My squadron flew up there to intercept the bogey,” he continued his story as they approached the bridge. “We fought face to face first,” he illustrated the scenario with his hands. Even when simulated with hand motion, it still looked intense. “And then we did some barrel roll—”

“Wow! That’s gotta be so awesome!” Rainbow Dash cut in. Thomas shushed the mare, glaring/staring at her for interrupting. She smiled awkwardly in defense and took a step backward to ensure not to break in again.

“I got shot down by him.” He skipped the dogfight, which made Rainbow Dash frown. “I almost died back then, but luckily, I bailed and hit the silk in time before my beloved Spitfire crashed it the forest...” He frowned. Pinkie Pie was about cheer him up, but Rarity lifted her hoof to prohibit her.

“Did you say ‘silk’, darling?” Rarity asked

“Well, yeah. It’s a parachute, it helped me to reach the ground unharmed,” he explained and prepare to continue before anyone interrupted again. “I’m pretty sure I saw you, after I bailed out.” He pointed at Rainbow Dash.

“Yeah, I was on the way home when I saw something in the sky.” She gestured up to the sky.

“I hid in the bush many times in a row yesterday. And the rest was like what he told you, I saw that beast and threw a rock to lure him away from me. It attacked him, then Fluttershy found the poor bastard and patched him up. I shadowed him; I even snuck in your cottage to check on him!” Fluttershy gave him an uncomfortable look, but he ignored it. “Then I slept in the bloody sleeping bag all night, ‘till I was rudely woke up. And you know the rest” He finished his story when they crossed the bridge.

They were in the town area now, the ponies scattered around the big building, which looked like an important place. They greeted him warmly, saying ‘hello’ or waving at him. He waved and nodded back to the pedestrians. The houses and building looked as if they were built in 15th century. They walked past the fountain, traveling straight along the cobblestone road. They arrived at a square; a big fountain was at the center. They walked past it and turned right. A massive tree stood at the distance.

“That’s Golden Oak Library! Twilight lives there along with her assistant, Spike!” Pinkie Pie pointed at the massive tree that she addressed as a library. “Spike is a baby dragon, they just moved in like last year. The old stallion that worked there had just retired!” Thomas didn’t catch much information due to how fast she spoke. He chose to remember what he understood from the hyperactive pony.

The rest of the trip went quietly. They arrived at the hospital. It had a red cross imprinted on the sign in front of the building and above the top floor’s middle window.

I guess the Red Cross isreally universal... he thought

The building was three stories high. It looked the same as the house in the town. They approached the building, opened the double door, and stepped inside. The hall was almost empty, save for a couple of nurses at the reception and a doctor walking around. Twilight trotted out from the corner.

“He’s in the operation room,” she answered. “I’m sure he’ll be ok.” she said smiling a little. “Thanks to your help; he would be in much worse state without it.”

Thomas smiled. He sighed in relief; it was like he just lifted a five-tonne boulder off his chest. Twilight looked at him, smiling. He didn’t want to lose the only human friend; the only enemy he had in this world. He would do anything he could to save that Kraut.

One of the nurses approached the group. She was a pure white pony with bubble gum pink bun mane. She had the red cross tattoo on her flanks.

Hmm... So, the tattoo on their arse resemble their job? He wondered, as the nurse slowly approached Twilight. She seems a bit nervous getting close to him.

“Miss Sparkle, the… thing you brought in just finished the operation. We managed to speed up the healing process a bit, but he will need to stay here for a few days...” The nurse paused for a moment. “It’s sleeping right now. You all may take a look at him, please be as quiet as possible.” she finished her report and then trotted away. The group was left uninformed about Gerhard whereabout.

“I think we should ask the reception about his whereabout,” Twilight suggested. Thomas nodded and walked up to the counter, trying not to scare the nurses stationed at the desk.

“Err... Hello,” Thomas greeted. “Do you know where is my friend?” he politely asked them without scaring the lives out of their little bodies. “You know, the one that looks like me...” he added.

“H-He’s in r-r-room 37!” the nurse at the counter answered, her voice slightly raised into a higher pitch at the end of the sentence. “G-Go up the stair and turn right, y-you’ll see it on your left.. she added when the group was leaving them. Thomas simply thanked them and walked away.

The group followed the direction given. Some hospital staff peeked from the corner behind, looking curiously at the group. The walk wasn’t long; they finally reached the room with the number 37 on the door. Thomas gently opened the door, afraid that he might wake the injured German or anypony inside.

The room was painted in white. A light bulb in middle of the ceiling lit the room. There were two windows on each side of the room, since it was located on the corner of the building. A person and a pony occupied the room; the bed on the right was occupied by a sleeping greyish pony with black hair. The one on the left, laid the sleeping Gerhard.

Gerhard was still sleeping on the undersized bed. He still wore his bloody uniform; the uniform had been ripped apart, probably by the doctor; this made Rarity scream, but Applejack stopped her and reminded that they were in the hospital. His pilot cap was placed on the nightstand. A tiny spot of dried blood stained the hat.

Thomas looked at his enemy, wondered if he was dreaming; was it nightmare or sweet dream? He has no idea. He knew that his enemy would not wake up soon, so he decided to ask Lyra about her offer. He stood next to the bed, saluted the sleeping ace, and turned to Lyra.

“Lyra, you said that I can stay with you, right?” he asked.

“Y-Yeah, would you like to go check the place out?” she asked back, seeming really excited when he mentioned that. Her friend: Bon Bon, looked at her.

“Aye, let’s go,” said Thomas. Lyra bounced happily out of the room. Thomas and Bon Bon followed suit.

The group was split. Only six mares left in the room. The silence lasted for a couple of seconds, then Twilight broke it.

“Girls, I think we should leave too,” Twilight suggested, “since he isn’t going to wake up any time soon.” The group nodded in understanding.

“Too bad he can’t attend my ‘welcome to Ponyville’ party...” Pinkie Pie’s mane flattened. “But I can still throw him a ‘happy recovered party’!” she shouted. Her mane inflated and become puffy again.

“Shhhh!” the nurse from earlier popped in.

“SORRY!” Pinkie apologized loudly.

“SHHH!” she shushed again.

“Sorry!” Pinkie apologized again.

“BY CELESTIA, COULD YOU BE QUIET!” she yelled.

“SHHH!” the whole group shushed back. The nurse’s face went as red as cherry. She rushed out in embarrassment. The group bursted into laughter, though they kept it quiet.

“Let’s go back ta do our work,” said Applejack after the laughter died down. The group said goodbye and then left the room.

*****

“This is our house!” Lyra claimed excitingly as she pointed at the house. The house looks like it was built in Middle Ages, but it looked a lot brighter. It was a two-story house with little balcony on the second floor.

“Nice house,” Thomas said while trying to remember the route from the hospital to here.

“Let’s go inside, it’s getting cold,” said Bon Bon as she opened the door and trotted in.

The sun was setting, and the moon was already on the horizon. The scenery of the village was absolutely stunning at twilight; the colour was not too bright nor too dark. The ponies at the nearby market were wrapping up their stall and going home. The houses began to turn their lights on. The light glowed in the incoming darkness. This land was peaceful, not like England. He didn’t need to worry about the air raid or any duty. This was the first time in a couple of years that he felt… Harmony.

The trio stepped inside the house. The doorframe was a little too small for him; he needed to bend his knee in order to get through. Bon Bon already turned the light on. The lightbulb in middle of the room shone brightly. The hall was combined with the living room. The stairs were on the left of the door. There were two doors in front of him. He didn't know what lay behind those doors, but he felt sure that Lyra will tour him around the house.

“Make yourself at home,” said Lyra. “That door is the bathroom.” She gestured at the door on the left. “And that’s our kitchen” she gestured at another door. “Upstair is our bedrooms. You could sleep on the couch. Just remember to take your boots off first,” she added.

“Alright, I appreciate your generosity. I’ll help you with your research about us,” said the British ace. “Could I borrow your towel?” he asked. “I think I should take a shower, after all that field operating.”

“Yep, I’ll get it,” said Bon Bon. She trotted upstairs. He waited for her to return.

Wonder What would that Kraut do right now....

*****

Gerhard woke up. His eyes focused quickly. He was lying on his bunk at the airfield. He slowly rose up, massaging his temples. He looked out through the window, it was still daytime. He stood up and walked to the door, the wooden floor creaked as he walked. He reached for the handle and swung it open.

The outside was really bright and colourful. The airfield was nothing but a field with some planes lining up. He walked out to the line of planes, purely Messerschmitt Bf 109’s. The engineer saluted him as he passed by. He saluted them back and carried on with his walk. He finally reached the end of the line, were his wife was busy with his plane.

She was a beautiful girl. She had silky blond hair and blue eyes; like how the propaganda said: The good German girl should be blonde and have blue eyes. She was in her greyish blue engineer’s uniform.

She noticed him approaching. She smiled and wave at him, he did the same thing his wife did.

“Guten Morgen, Schatz (Good morning, honey),” Gerhard greeted.

“Guten Morgen, Ger (Good morning, Ger),” she replied happily.

“Könntet Ihr mir einen Strich? (Could you fetch me a spanner?)” she asked.

“Verstanden.” He walked to her toolbox and grab a spanner. He walked up to her and handed the spanner.

“Danke,” she said and took the spanner. She continued her work and start humming.

“Ich hatte einen wirklich seltsamen Traum (I had a really weird dream),” Gerhard said.

“Was ist es (What’s it?),” she asked.

“Ich stürzte in ein Land voller reden pony (I crashed in a land full of talking ponies). Ich habe von einigen hölzernen Wolf verletzt. Und Tommy ace patchen mich. (I got hurt by some wooden wolf. And Tommy ace patch me up.)” he narrated what he saw.

“Eine seltsame Traum tatsächlich... (A weir dream indeed)” she muttered as she closed the engine lid.

The sudden sounding of the air raid siren startled them. They could see a swarm of Hurricanes and Spitfires in the distance. They knew what this means: a raid. They ran to the nearest trench. The guards manned the anti-aircraft gun: flak 38 vierling, 20mm. The Hurricanes dove down and dropped their bombs at the aircrafts on the ground; many of which were being serviced by the engineers.

They were almost to the trench when a Spitfire descended and sprayed bullets at them. Gerhard was lucky, but his wife wasn’t. She fell to the ground; multiple bullets had penetrated her back.

“AVA!” Gerhard shouted, his eyes went wide. He braked and turned back to his wife.

The raid ended. The swarm fled back toward the channel, leaving destruction behind. Most of the planes were disabled, half of them were on fire, wings fell apart from the fuselages. The black smog from the fire drifted into the sky, obscuring the sun. Every man and woman ran around, putting out the fires.

“Ava, bleib bei mir. (Ava, stay with me.)” Gerhard held her hand. “Lassen Sie mich jetzt (Don’t leave me now.)”

“G-Gerh-har-rd,” she said quietly. Her voice was shaky. “I-Ich l-lieb-be d-dich, S-Sch-atz (I-I l-lov-ve y-you, h-honey.)” her arm went limp, her grip was loosened.

The lifeless body of Gerhard’s love lied in his arms. Tears were welling up in his eyes. He felt a mix of anger and sorrow. He wanted vengeance, but he couldn’t do it.

‘Sogar nach dem Abziehen den Feind zu ihrer Knochen. Am Ende fühlt man nichts, und dann merkt man, dass man nicht anders von ihnen, nachdem alle. (Even after stripping your enemy to their bones. In the end, you feel nothing and then you realize that you weren't any different from them after all.)’ his wife’s voice echoed in his head.

He wiped his tear. Her eyes were still open. He gently closed them. “Auf Wiedersehen (Goodbye)” He felt someone tapping on his shoulder, the hand that had tapped him was pretty big and hard. He turned back, saw a dark blue pony with starry flowing mane.

“WHAT ART THOU? WHAT ART THEE FAFFING IN MY SUBJECT'S SWEVEN” she shouted, the strong wind from the shout pushed him to the ground.

‘That was one of the ponies for sure. But, how did she get here?’ He wondered. I’m sure that was English, but… I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT SHE SAID!’ he thought.

“Errr, can you be a bit softer?” he asked, smiling cheekily. “Und maybe speak the proper English?” She froze there, shocked that the creature in front of her speaks. Gerhard raised his brow, waiting for the answer.

“What art thou?!” she asked, with a bit lowered volume.

“Ich (I) am Gerhard Barkhorn, proud ace of the Luftwaffe,” he introduced. “Und (and) you?” he asked back.

“WE ARE PRINCESS LUNA, THE PRINCESS OF THE NIGHT!” She covered her muzzle with her hoof.

“It’s ok,” he said assuringly. “You said something about me: fooling around in your subject’s dream, ja?” he asked. She slightly nodded. “So, this ist (is) just ein (a) dream?” She nodded again. “Verflucht seist du, Alptraum. (Curse you, nightmare)” Gerhard swore under his breath, so she wouldn’t hear it.

“State thy business in our subject’s dream, Gerhard Barkhorn.”

“This ist mein (is my) dream” stated Gerhard.

“Thine dream?” she said, sounded confused.Gerhard simply nodded.

“Ja, mein (Yes, my) dream,” he emphasized.

“What art thou doing in ye town o’ Ponyville?”

“From what I remembered: I crashed in this world, in the forest. Der wooden wolf attacked; I was heavily wounded. My enemy patched me up, and a pony named Twilight Sparkle took me to the hospital before I passed out.” The Princess stood there, thinking about what he said.

Several waves of air radiated from the spot he stood on, startling the pilot.

“Thou art waking up,” she said quickly. “We shall be gone at once.” Suddenly, she somehow flew backward, along with every object nearby. The airfield disappeared and was replaced with darkness.

*****

Princess Luna opened her eyes; the sight of the palace surrounded her again. The room was pretty quiet, since it was her royal chamber. She stood up on all fours; planning to go awake her sister.

We must inform our sister immediately.

Chapter 5: Gettin' Dressed

Chapter 5: Gettin’ Dressed

In the dark ward, where silence reigned the atmosphere, the two injured patients rested peacefully on their beds. The moonlight radiated through the windows, bathing the room in soft blue glow. The soft breathing of the two creatures was the only noise in the quiet room.

Gerhard’s eyes shot open. He slowly rose up, sitting on the white bed, sweating bullets. He tried to massage his temples, but he realized one of his arms was in a cast; so he used the other one instead.

He took stock of his injured body. Probably, most of his body was traumatized by those wolves. His right arm was broken, along with one of his legs, which was broken from his belly-out. His uniform was ripped by Tommy; luckily Tom was a doctor before the war. There were probably more wounds beneath his jacket, but he couldn’t see them.

That dream was too real, he thought, wiping his sweat with his cast-free arm and looked around. A roommate? It’s probably better than being alone.

The roommate buried itself under the blanket. It must have been a pony, judging from the size. The pony snored loudly, blanket shifting up and down along with the breathing.

The blanket moved away slightly, revealing his roommate’s face. She was a mare with a grey coat and long black mane, but it wasn't as long as Fluttershy’s. Her long, curly eyelashes stood gauntly on her eyelids.

Interesting… he thought, I should greet her in the morning. he glanced outside, checking the time.

The sun began to ascend into the sky, shining its warm rays into the room. The horizon turned to fiery orange tone as the sun rose up. The birds chirped happily outside, singing a soothing tune.

The first day’s light projected into the room, changing the blue glow of moonlight into golden tone of the sun. The ray hit his roommate’s face, waking her up from her slumber. Her eyes opened slowly; they were lavender purple, and as shiny as diamonds.

“Guten Morgen, Schätzchen,” Gerhard greeted, smiling and trying to look as friendly as possible.

She slowly pushed the blanket away, revealing a long neck brace wrapping around her neck and the cast all over her body, except her legs. She lay on her side, unable to move.

The moment she saw him; she froze for a moment and screamed. The scream wasn’t really loud because of the neck brace, but it was still high enough to make his ears ring. Gerhard lifted his cast-free arm, gesturing for her to stop frantically, but she didn’t.

“FRÄULEIN!” he shouted. “Stop screaming!” Gerhard commanded grumpily.

“AHHHHHHHHHHahhhhhhhhhh……ahh?” Her scream slowly faded away, like she didn’t even know why she was even screaming in the first place. “What are you ‘foul ape’ doing doing here in the hospital?!” she exclaimed hoarsely. “And HOW can you TALK!”

“Firstly, liebes Fräulein. I’m not a ‘foul ape’, I am a human,” Gerhard explained. “Two, I was taught, just like ordinary parents do to their kind.”

“Why are you here in the hospital? If I may ask," she asked. Gerhard deadpanned and gestured to his casting.

“Oh,” she exclaimed surprisingly. “Sorry for that, mister…”

“Barkhorn,” said Gerhard. “Leutnant Gerhard Barkhorn, ace of Jagdgeschwader 52, Luftwaffe,” he added. “But you can call me Gerd.”

“As you wish, Gerd,” she replied, smiling. However, his German confused her greatly. “My name is Octavia. Pleasure to meet you.” She extended her hoof to shake his uninjured hand.

“So, how did you ended up hier, Fräulein Octavia?” asked Gerhard.

“About a week ago, my roommate Vinyl Scratch happened to be testing her ‘Bass Cannon’ in our house when I walked in,” said Octavia, in refined demeanor. “The force sent me flying into a tree, and here I am.”

“Bass Cannon?” Gerhard muttered idly; lost in his thought. That sounds surprisingly familiar… he thought.

Octavia cocked an eyebrow, wondering what was troubling him. “So,” Octavia said, snapping him back to attention, “what, pray tell, caused those?” she asked politely.

“I think I should start at the beginning,” said Gerhard. “Es ist a long story.” He looked at Octavia, waiting for her approval.

She shrugged. "Seems like time is something we have in abundance,” stated Octavia. “Please begin.” She made herself as comfortable as possible, waiting for his story as a little child waits for a bedtime story.

“Also gut,” exclaimed Gerhard, “Back in my Welt…”

*****

In the downtown of Ponyville, the residents started waking up in the morning of the new day. Local birds welcomed the new day with their occasional chirps. Morning dew dropped from the plants into the soil, giving them some moisture. The local merchants gathered in the square, setting up their stall.

A loud deafening snore echoed through the busy square, making the nearby ponies flatten their ears and grind their teeth. The snore seemed to come from a house nearby. The agonizing snore echoed through the street.

The snore came from the British Spitfire ace: Thomas McMurrow, still sleeping on the couch. He drooled on the armrest, covering half of it with his saliva.

The hostesses: Lyra and Bon Bon, descended down the staircase. They both looked absolutely tired. Thomas’ snoring had lasted all night long, preventing anypony else in the radius of one kilometre from getting any sleep. Lyra’s face brightened up as a devious idea came through her mind. She smirked devilishly, rubbing her front hooves together and grinned quietly.

Bon Bon glared at her curiously, but she shrugged and walked into the kitchen.

She carried out her evil plan immediately. She trotted outside, onward to one of the neighbouring houses. The neighbours seemed to be as tired as she was: dark sacks under their eyes and messy manes. As soon as she reached the destination, she knocked the door.

Several minutes passed before the door finally opened up, revealing a creamy white mare with a shaggy electric blue mane wearing a pair of violet shades.

“W..What’s up, Lyra?” she greeted tiredly, but beamed upon her guest. “Why so early in the morning? Did my wub made anyone sleepless?” she asked as she noticed the dark sacks under her eyes. Lyra slightly nodded. “I’m sure I casted a soundproof spell on this house. Did it go off or something?” Lyra shook her head at that statement.

“I’m here to ask you for help, Vinyl,” asked Lyra.

“I’m sorry, I’ll cast the spell aga—” Vinyl did a doubletake, “W-W-What?!”

“Your spell didn’t go off, Vinyl. But I have a guest; he was snoring all night long,” she smirked, “and I need payback.” Vinyl put a hoof on her chin, thinking.

“Hmm… Sure! What do you need?” said Vinyl.

“Something…loud,” Lyra leaned in and cocked her eyebrows repeatedly.

“Got it. Give me ten minutes,” she said and walked back inside her house.

*****

Back in Lyra and Bon Bon’s house, the sleepy ace finally stopped snoring and opened his eyes. He sprang up to his feet when he saw the saliva-coated couch.

“This is wee bit too much…” Thomas muttered anxiously.

The smell of breakfast came from the kitchen. Thomas was sure there was someone in there; might be Lyra, Bon Bon, or both. He walked to the door and pushed it open.

Bon Bon was serving blueberry flapjacks the moment he entered the room. She gave him a small greeting smile and carried the frying pan to the sink.

There were three stacks of flapjacks on the table. A stack consisted of five to seven flapjacks. The blueberries were mixed with the flour, topped with a bar of butter and blueberry jam.

They made his mouth water, some of it dripped from his mouth. Bon Bon glared at him with a pair of stink eyes. He wiped it with his sleeve and smiled sheepishly.

“Oh, miss Bon Bon,” he called. She stopped from washing the used pan and turned to him. “Can I borrow a rag o’ yours, please?” he asked. She arched her eyebrow curiously. “Errrr, the couch…” He smiled sheepishly.

She pointed at a rag on the hanging line and went back to washing. He grabbed it and exited the kitchen.

The saliva seemed to have seeped in the armrest already. He dashed to it and started wiping at the liquid. When he finished wiping, he heard a call from outside; sounded like Lyra.

“Tommy! come out here, I have something for you!” she shouted, clearly emphasizing a certain word.

“Coming!” he replied and grabbed the door handle.

Suddenly, he felt something wasn’t right.

Why did she emphasize that word? He wondered, releasing the handle quietly.

He snuck to the window carefully and peeked from around the corner like the time he spied on Gerhard.

Some sort of box was set on the street. The side that seemed to be the front faced the door. A creamy white pony with shaggy electric blue mane mounted on it, hoof over a big red button. Lyra was cowering behind her, covering her ears.

From his experience as an ace and a trained pilot, that thing was suppose to be some sort of cannon. He gave her the stink eyes and readied his Webley. He carefully drafted a plan in his head. Using only a few seconds to eliminate all the impossibility, a foolproof plan came up.

Kraut’s famous Blitzkrieg is perfect for the job.

For safety; he removed all the remaining bullets in his revolver and stashed them in his jacket with the rest of the ammunition. He planned to use the element of surprise to scare Lyra.

She will wee herself for sure! He chuckled and grabbed the door handle again, more firm than the previous time. Sweat began to cascade down his forehead through the gap between his eyes and nose. He tightened his grip on the door, preparing to barge out and charge.

But suddenly, his stomach growled angrily, and suddenly, food became more important, as he realized that he hadn't even had dinner yesterday. He'd have to see to that before dealing with this trap. In a single motion, he holstered his Webley, grabbed the towel Bon Bon had lent him, and bee-lined back into the kitchen.

“Where’s Lyra? She never misses breakfast,” asked Bon Bon, sitting at the table with the food, waiting for both human and her roommate.

“She’s outside with a white lass with shaggy blue mane, wearing a pair o’ violet shade,” he explained as he sat down. “Oh, and that white lass is mounting some kind of cannon.” Bon Bon put a hoof on her chin, thinking. “From that look o’ ye: y’ must know something.”

“The mare you mentioned is Vinyl Scratch, the local DJ, and that box you saw is the infamous ‘Bass Cannon’ that put her roommate into the hospital,” she explained before she leaned down and took a bite of a flapjack.

“She’s up to no good, then?” he asked. Bon Bon slightly nodded in confirmation. “I’ll go get her once I have some o’ this.” He was about to start devouring the food when he noticed that the essential wares were missing. He sighed boringly and stood up, “I’ll go get her.” The said mare walked in, wearing a deceptive look on her face.

“You’re late, Lyra…” scolded Bon Bon.

“…” The scolded mare glared daggers at him, scrunching her face in the progress. Thomas sat down as soon as he realized that his duty wasn’t needed anymore. The mint green mare did the same, still glaring at him. The human glared back uncomfortably, hoping for her to break the glare and eat.

“Errrr,” Bon Bon broke the silence, “the breakfast is getting cold, you two.” Lyra was the first to stop. She started levitating the flapjack into her mouth.

“… Do ye hav’ any silverware er' something like that?” he asked quietly, still feeling uncomfortable from being glared at earlier.

“Sure, we have it,” said Bon Bon, who then looked at Lyra. The said mare rolled her eyes and lit her horn up; the glow emitted from it was golden like her cutiemark. A fork and a knife flew from the cabinet into his grasp. He nodded appreciatively before putting them down on the table, his hands jointed together and close his eyes.

The two ponies looked at him curiously, but they stayed quiet. Sounds seemed to be missing from the room, except for his prayer.

After a moment, the prayer ended, and so the silence. Thomas’s mouth curved into a small smile, then grew into an ordinary smile. He picked the wares up and started eating. The two hostesses looked at each other, dumbfounded from the scene. He looked up at the two, still chewing the food. He swallowed, and said:

“It’s a prayer. We hav’ many o’ religions back in the chaotic ol’ world; tha’ was one o’ em’,” he explained and continued digging through the second flapjack. They nodded in understanding and started to eat their own food.

“I’ll need to write that down. Can you explain it after we finished breakfast?” asked Lyra, levitating a bit-size piece of flapjack up into her mouth. He responded with a nod and returned to his meal.

Five minutes later, they finished their breakfast. Thomas wiped his sauce-full mouth with a napkin provided by Bon Bon. Without anyone speaking, he stood up and asked:

“I think I should explore ye town. Do ye hav’ any map lying ‘round here?”

“Nope, don’t think so,” replied Bon Bon, shaking her head.

“But you can pay Wes Navigate, the map maker, a visit at his shop though!” exclaimed Lyra. Thomas jumped, surprised.

“Aye, and where’s his shop?” Thomas asked back, arching his brow. Lyra took a deep breath and braced herself.

“Right, right, left, left, right, left, right, right, left, straight on, left, left and right!” bombarded Lyra, sending spittle flying everywhere, including the British ace’s face. Picking the used napkin up, he buried his face into it.

With some spittle on her face, Bon Bon grimaced deeply and facehoofed. She sighed, and told Thomas the proper way. He thanked her with a nod, and walked out the front door. The sight in front of him made him cringe: Vinyl smashed the big red button, and the front plate of the cannon opened up.

With a swift move, he leapt outside, still, though, in the trajectory of the cannon. He rolled out of the path when the weapon fired upon him.

WUB WUB WUB WUBBITY WUB WUB

The deafening sound wave sliced through the air, shaking everything in its way, including the house he resided in. Noticing this, he took it that this cannon was non-lethal. So, he sprinted to the cannon, out-tracking it miserably.

“Ye are finished. Surrender an’ ye will b’ treated under the Geneva convention,” Thomas recited loudly, due to the deafening sound emitting from the cannon. He took out his empty revolver and pointed it at Vinyl. She looked at him, surprised and confused at the same time.

“Did you mean Hayneva convention?” she corrected him, shouting over the loud seemed-to-be-music noise.

“Aye, that!” he exclaimed,

Then, I surrender.” she stood on her hind legs and held her front hooves up high in the air, letting him know that she really surrendered over the loud noise in the background. “I’m all yours.” Then, she stood on all four again.

A smile crept on his face, he then gestured to the black boxy cannon and asked: “Turn this thing off, please.” She smiled, and smashed the huge shiny red button. The sound wave weakened to the point where there was no more sound. Front plate closing, the silence restored to the street.

With the peacefulness calming Thomas’s nerves, he noted that the street was decorated with replicas of bats and spiders. It was Halloween. He nearly forgot that, being in an alien world filled with bright coloured pony sure distracted him well.

Without any notice or warning, a pink blur dashed in. It was Pinkie Pie, jumping up and down before him.

“Tommy, Tommy! Are you ready for Nightmare Night? Do you have costume yet? What will you dress as tonight? How’s your POW? Is that Bass Cannon?! Why is it on the street? Oh, hi Vinyl! How are ya' doing…” bombarded Pinkie, drowning him in sea of questions and random shenanigan. Surprisingly, she was still talking. His jaw dropped in shock.

*****

“… Und das ist pretty much it,” Gerhard finished. Octavia hadn’t asked any questions during his storytelling; a really good listener.

Before she asked anything, the door flung open. A doctor entered with a nurse pushing a cart behind him. The doctor was a khaki brown stallion with shaggy brown mane, wearing a white coat like ordinary doctor. The nurse was a grey pegasus mare with blonde mane, her eyes crossed, wearing a nurse hat. The cart was filled with medical supplies and tools.

“Good morning, mister,” the doctor greeted happily. “I’m the doctor.”

“Doktor, wer?” Gerhard arched his eyebrows.

“Just the Doctor, please,” Doctor reached in his coat, picking out a metal rod with his mouth.

The metal rod looked like something out of the pulp sci-fi stories that he’d read when he was a kid, glowing and pulsing as it was waved over him. Then the doctor paused, looking at the rod as if reading something, frowned and had a quick whispered conversation with the nurse, that neither patient was able to overhear. Gerhard and Octavia looked at each other questioningly, but Octavia shrugged.

The grey nurse spoke up: “With this new medical method, all your injuries will heal by the afternoon!” she picked some sort of fruit from the cart and a syringe.

“Didn’t Doktor Scalpel say my case needs months?” asked Gerhard, arching his eyebrow at the Doctor.

“This will sting for just a moment.” The nurse then injected him with the syringe, completely ignored his question. “Now, eat this, hurry.” She tossed him the unusual fruit.

He stared at the fruit, wondering what would it taste. He took a bite. It was sour at first, but the sweetness replace it. After a couple of seconds, he suddenly felt dizzy. He fell back, lying on the bed. Darkness slowly crept on the corner of his eyes. His eyelids became heavier and heavier every second.

Finally, the darkness took over and drove him to sleep.

Chapter 6: Nightmare Night is Neigh

A/N: From now I’ll be calling Thomas: Tom, because it’s shorter and seems more appropriate.

Chapter 6: Nightmare Night is Neigh!

“What do you mean you don’t have any costumes?!” Pinkie gasped in shock, glaring at Thomas as he backed away from the outburst.

“Err…” Tom grumbled, drying his brain for a good answer. “I… just arrived, and err…”

“Yepperonie!” exclaimed Pinkie, still bouncing. “Let’s get you to Rarity’s boutique for your costume!”

“Err… Lead the way then.” He nodded and turned to Vinyl. The said mare shrugged, then walked beside him. “Would y’ mind if I stop by at Wes Navigate’s shop fer a map?” he asked Pinkie who was bouncing her way to Rarity’s boutique.

“Sure! If you have a map, you can go to Rarity’s by yourself! Sadly, I don’t have the map with me today and I haven’t restocked the stash yet. Anyway, can you say hi to Wesy for me?”

“O’course,” he replied, then looked at Vinyl who was following them since they had departed from Lyra and Bon Bon’s unharmed house. “Shall we, lass?”

“Yeah, let’s go!” she exclaimed.

Walking fast, they reached their destination without much talking. The shop was two stories tall with a paned window on the front, showing the hardware on sale. Without hesitation, they opened the front door. The bell rang as the door swung. The clerk sat there, reading a newspaper. He was a dark brown unicorn stallion with a shaggy silver mane, a pair of glossy lime green eyes ,and a map with a golden compass over it for a cutie mark.

Wes rose from his seat in surprise as the duo approached the counter.

“H-Hello, how can I h-help you?” he asked nervously at Thomas who easily doubled his size.

“Sire, do y’ hav’ map o’ this town?” Tom asked back with his thick Scottish accent. The clerk answered with an approving nod.

“Just a second, please.” His horn lit up, levitating a ribbon tied scroll from the cabinet behind him. “Here you go, sir.”

“How much is it?” asked Tom. Then he realized, he hadn’t got any pony’s money on him. He looked at Vinyl, who was looking around the cabinet for anything she might need. “Is it possible fer y’ to lend me some quids o’ yer?” he whispered next to her ear. She thought for a moment, before levitating her coin pouch, then gave him five bits. He thanked her and turned to the clerk again.

“It’ll be two silver bits,” he said, looking at Tom, wondering if he knew how the Equestrian currency works.

“Just give him a bit,” Vinyl said annoyingly. He obeyed, giving the clerk one of his five coins. He levitated it into the register, exchanged it for a silver coin, and gave it to him. “Thanks, have a nice day.” He smiled and waved to him as he walked out.

“Oh!” Tom exclaimed, “Pinkie Pie said hi,” he said. The stallion chuckled and went on to finish the newspaper.

Tom untied the red ribbon on the map and rolled it out. The map was decent enough: the placement of each household, landmarks’ names and direction to other cities. Rarity’s boutique was on the south part of the town, southwest of the Town Hall.

The duo continued their journey. When they were halfway to their destination, Vinyl broke the silence:

“I just realized I need a costume too,” Vinyl spoke up indiscreetly. “My costume’s gonna be so awesome!” she exclaimed cheerfully and wore a weird expression on her face.

The boutique: a tall building which sloped into a dome with two pony-shaped decorations on and a red triangular flag flying on the spiky tip of the dome. Somehow, it reminded him of the Old Bailey in London.

Tom took another look at the map to be sure. He perked up, smiling. “Tally ho! Let’s race t’ the boutique!” he shouted. Bending down, he started running toward the tall building.

His breathing quickened and his acceleration started to drop. Vinyl was galloping up to him, stamina starting to run out too. A smirk slowly crept on Thomas’s face. He slowed down a bit, preserving his half-empty stamina.

Finally, the agile Tom reached the destination: Rarity’s boutique, his stamina half depleted. A minute later, Vinyl arrived and collapsed to the ground immediately, panting hard.

“It… seems… that… I… win,” he muttered in his panting.

With blood rushing through her body, Vinyl’s heartbeat greatly quickened. Noting this, he decided to ask: “Can y’ walk?” Her mouth moved; nothing came out but air. “I take it that y’ can’t.” She merely nodded at his assumption. He crouched down and lifted Vinyl up into his arms; she wasn’t as heavy as he had thought.

He headed for the boutique’s door. Removing his arm, he knocked the under-sized door.

“Come in, darling! The door isn’t locked!” shouted Rarity. He proceeded inside instantly.

The interior was extremely tidy and clean. Several pony mannequins stood in order by size: from tiny filly to fully grown stallion. Few yards of many colours fabric leaned against the wall. A gramophone placed on the corner, playing a French-like tune.

Rarity, who was wearing a pair of red glasses, came to greet them with a cup of tea in her magical grasp. “Welcome to Carousel Boutique. How may I help—” she stopped mid sentence as soon as she noticed Thomas, still carrying Vinyl.

“She an’ me raced ‘ere. She’s jus’ exhausted,” explained Tom, panting no more. “Do you hav’ anywhere I could put ‘er down?”

Thinking for a moment, she levitated a fancy red couch out and put it down in front of him. “There, darling,” said Rarity, before taking another sip of her brew.

After he had gently dropped her on the couch, he proceeded to attend to his business.

“Miss Pinkie Pie ‘ad suggested that I should hav’ a costume fer Nightmare Night,” he paused, feeling that he had missed something. “Oh! an’ Miss Scratch ‘ere also in need o’ one.”

“What pray tell, do you wish your costume to be like?” politely asked Rarity.

Thinking, Tom put a hand up to his chin. A wonderful idea came up to him, but Rarity might need to make him a whole new uniform. And he needed some makeup.

“Make me ‘nother uniform, will y’?” he requested. “I’ll use this one fer tonight. An’ I may need some makeup.”

“Of course, darling. Would you like to have it customized or the same?” asked Rarity.\, who had already had taken out several measuring tapes.

“Same please,” he replied.

Rarity gestured for him to turn around which he obeyed unquestioningly. She probably needed the design to begin with. The measuring tapes flew around him in Rarity’s magical grasp, doing its purpose of measuring. She took note of every measurement that had been done.

Professional indeed thought Tom, who stood still to make the measurement easier.

“Finished!” exclaimed Rarity, “Your new uniform will be done in more or less than an hour,” said Rarity, levitating out some blue fabrics. “You can come back after lunch for it.”

“Much appreciated.” He looked at Vinyl, who had recovered from the exhaustion. “Ah! How are y’ feeling?” he asked worriedly.

“Much better!” Vinyl replied with an assuring shout. “Now, my costume for tonight.” She brought a hoof over to her chin. “A suit, white shirt, and a black tie would be good.”

“Isn’t that too formal, Vinyl?” Rarity asked incredulously, but Vinyl shook her head energetically, like she hadn’t galloped at all.

“As you wish,” said Rarity. “Yours will be finished as soon as possible after I had finished with Tommy’s.”

“YEAH!” Vinyl exclaimed happily and walked up to Tom. “Let’s get something to eat. It’s noon already!”

With that cheerful statement, they exited the boutique and stood at the entrance. Tom pulled out his map and unrolled it. There were three places which should suit them well.

“Where d’ ya think we should eat?”

“I say…” Vinyl lost in thought for a moment, pointing her hoof at him, before something came up from her mind. “How about my favourite pub?”

“Aye, let’s hit ye road.”

*****

With the sun looming high over the hospital, a human woke up. Gerhard’s eyes fluttered open, the mid-day light shining into his eyes. He quickly shielded them with his hand. Soon he realized that something was wrong, at least in a good way.

He felt no more pain from his injuries.

“Oh you are awake!” He looked to his side, to the speaker. It was Octavia, she gave him a small smile.

“Huh?” he muttered in confusion.

“The Doctor came in earlier to inspect your wounds,” she explained. “They said you can leave as soon as they are done with paperwork.” This news gave Gerhard a huge smile. “I’ve been asking them about the Doctor and that nurse,” she continued, “but they didn’t seem to have any staff that matches the descriptions given…”

“How ist das possible?” asked Gerhard. He started inspecting his healed injuries. The cuts had been healed, leaving little scars. His broken bones were sealed together once again. “At least they healed me,” he muttered happily.

“From what you have told me,” started Octavia, “You have nowhere to go, isn’t that right?” he nodded deceptively as an answer. “You’re always welcome at my door, Gerd.”

“Danke. I don’t know vas to say…” he silenced himself to remember the direction to her house.

There were several knocks on the door. It swung open, revealing Gerhard’s surgeon: Dr. Scalpel. He was a short dawnlight orange pegasus with a chestnut brown mane. His cutie mark, of course, was a scalpel. During the operation, he was the one who saved his life, which he really appreciated.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Barkhorn. You can now leave the hospital; we’ve finished the paperwork,” stated Scalpel. “Although you’re healed, you have be careful around your wounds, or they will re-open.”

“Verstanden,” the human replied enthusiastically and got up from the bed with his officer cap on. “I will visit you sometimes, Schatzchen.” He waved goodbye and left the ward.

Pacing leisurely, he approached the reception. The nurses at the counter were no longer scared to see a human. He sighed in relief that he needn’t to be too careful anymore.

“Guten Tag. Do you know wo ist meine equipment?” asked Gerhard.

“Just a second please,” a nurse replied. One of them went away, probably fetching his gear.

A minute later, she returned with a cardboard box on her back. She handed (or hoofed) him the box, and went back to work. He nodded thankfully and walked out the front door.

Ambling along the cobblestones path, he opened the box and checked on his equipment. Everything seemed to be intact and accounted for.

Now I need to get to Octavia’s, thought Gerhard. And the unicorns have magic. Hopefully, they can fix my ‘eagle’…

Then, he proceeded on the direction given by Octavia. Hopefully, her roommate: ‘Vinyl Scratch’ was already awake at this time.

*****

A couple of minutes later, a railroad track crossed his path. He could see the station on his far right. WIthout further sightseeing, he continued his journey to Octavia’s place. At this time, the street was crowded with ponies going about their usual business. On his right, the first milestone stood tall: Golden Oak Library. He turned left. From what Octavia had told him; her place should be at the end of this road.

A house with two stories stood in front of him. It looked pretty much like some old German house back home, except for the hay roof. This gave him a bit of homesickness, but he shrugged it off. It was strange that it had a yellow awning on the side.

He approached it and knocked on the door, but no answer came. He knocked again, harder, and added several more knocks into the series.

Maybe she’s gone out? Wondered Gerhard. Now, where should I go?

Suddenly, the corner building’s door swung open, immediately catching his attention. It was none other than Tom, with a white unicorn mare beside him. They were singing a tune which could only have belonged in a tavern. Tom’s cheeks were red like tomatoes: clearly tipsy, but his companion didn’t seem to share the same madness.

When the British ace noticed him, he waved cheerfully and walked up to him with his mare companion.

“Oi, Jerry!” yelled Thomas, in a little drunken manner. “Me thought y’ were in ye olde quiet hospital?”

“There was eine mysterious doktor that healed me, und he wasn’t one auf hospital staff,” Gerhard explained flatly. “Und mein wardmate: Octavia, offered me zu resident in ihre Haus. She told me zu see ein mare name ‘Vinyl Scratch’.”

“That’s me!” Vinyl exclaimed in a less drunken behavior when compared with Tom.

“How convenient,” Gerhard chuckled and smiled sanguinely. “Now that Sie haben informed, shall I go mit you two?”

“O’ course, Jerry!” exclaimed Tom. “We just ‘ad lunch, and on ye way t’ retrieve our Nightmare Night costume.”

“Und was bitte schön, ist Nightmare Nacht?” His native German speech greatly puzzled Vinyl, who scratched her head in confusion.

“It’s something like Halloween. I believe Kraut hav’ that too, ain’t y’?”

“Ja, wir haben Halloween.” When Gerghard’s reply ended, a snow white owl landed on the ground next to the trio, its leg tied with a small scroll. Noticing this, Vinyl freed the scroll with her magic and unrolled it. She cleared her throat and read aloud:

Dear Mr. Barkhorn and Mr .McMorrow,

We are pleased to inform you that you have a place at Princess Celestia’s School of Gifted Unicorns. Please find… Wait! That was wrong letter form!

Ahem! You are invited to “Welcome to Ponyville Party and Nightmare Night” party! Tommy would’ve got a costume for tonight by now. You need a costume, Jerry! And be at the Rally Point (Sugar Cube Corner) at five in the evening!

With love,

Pinkamena Diane Pie.

PS: Bring Scratchy too!

The three stood in silence, dumbfounded by the letter’s content. Vinyl was the one to break it. “That means you need to come with us, Jerry. We’re on our way too.”

“Then let’s go, Miss Scratch,” said Gerhard.

“Call me Vinyl.”

*****

Within a few minutes, they’d arrived at the boutique. By this point Tom seemed to have sobered up a bit, at least judging from his behavior, and that his Scottish was less pronounced now. Vinyl proceeded to knock the door without hesitation.

“Come in!” shouted the voice from the inside.

They stepped in. Gerhard opening the door for Vinyl, saying “Fräulein first.” She giggled at his gentlecoltness and went through the entrance coyly.

Once again, Rarity emerged from another room to greet them. But this time, she noticed Gerhard.

“Oh my stars!” Rarity exclaimed surprisingly and rushed to the German ace. “Those wounds surely don’t heal this quick. How pray tell did they heal you?” Gerhard answered the same lines he told Tom and Vinyl, which triggered suspicion from Rarity. “I don’t mean to press, darling! Just that it’s so good to see you up and about again.”

“Danke. Fräulein Pie wanted mir zu have ein costume.” Gerhard said with a small smile on his face. “Which I have no idea was I should dress as!”

“There’re many choices, dude,” suggested Vinyl. Tom nodded sagely in agreement. Gerhard was lost in thought, and then the lightbulb lit up.

“Even das ist ein bit disrespecting, but das wird do für jetz,” said Gerhard.

He requested a paper and pencil from Rarity and start doodling. He drew a long square with a circle in the middle and finished with a swastika inside. “Das ist the actual size.”

“So, y’ will go as a Nazi, Jerry?” asked Tom, who made a frown and put both hands on his hips.

“Ja, but I require ein kleine mostasche too.” With that statement, Tom ooh’d loudly and laughed his bum off on the floor. They all looked worriedly at the laughing ace, including Rarity’s cat: Opal.

A while and a scolding later, Tom finally stopped his madness. Wiping tears from his eyes, he stood back up, grinning quietly.

“Anyway Jerry, darling. Isn’t your costume a bit too… little?” Rarity asked as she stopped the glare and started working on Gerhard’s armband.

“Nein, this ist jus—” Rarity interrupted him by giving the Nazi party’s armband, “—recht…”

“Now, the moustache…” she disappeared into the next room. A minute later she returned with a pot of ink and a miniature paintbrush. “And the style?”

Gerhard put his hands on both side of his face, making a tiny space under his nose. “Kleine square under my nose,” he instructed flatly.

After that, she proceeded to paint his face. Gerhard frowned worriedly, but Rarity made an assuring smile to calm him. “Worry not, darling. This is washable,” she said as she left a finishing touch to make the moustache realistic.

Another grin crept onto Tom’s face, “Toothbrush…” he muttered in his resisted-fullout- laugh. But this time, Vinyl laughed instead. She collapsed down.

“Dude, that was priceless!” Vinyl stated in her laughter.

“Git y’ arse up, Vinyl,” commanded Tom. She complied and stood up, still laughing.

“Look who’s talking,” jeered Vinyl.

“Oi! shut up ‘n let’s pay Rarity fer ‘er service,” Tom averted with an annoyed expression on his face.

The said seamstress shook her head, “That wouldn’t be necessary, darling. For the sake of fashion; both your uniforms simply looked horrid,” declined Rarity. Both aces tried to object, but she shushed them. She turned to Vinyl, who was leaning against the wall. “Except you, Vinyl. It will be three hundred and eighty bits in total.” Vinyl grumbled disappointingly before requesting for a pen to write her cheque.

When she had finished, she blew a raspberry and joined the aces. Tom and Gerhard shared a hearty laughter on her reaction.

“Nun that das Köstum business ist done, let’s head zu das Sugar Cube Corner.”

“T’ Sugar Cub’ Cornar!” Tom exclaimed and ran outside with his usual cheerful nature.

“To Sugar Cube Corner…” Vinyl muttered deceptively and followed suit.

Chapter 7: Nightmare Night

Chapter 7: Nightmare Night

The sun set on the horizon, shining its last light upon the decorated streets of Ponyville. Shortly after that, the moon rose to the sky. The soft blue glow enhanced the spooky atmosphere of Nightmare Night, making the street emit a dark aura. However, the young ponies weren't anywhere to be found in the street, as they were busy doing festive activities elsewhere.

Vinyl and the two aces arrived at Sugar Cube Corner.

The multi-story building stood tall over all the others in the massive town square. It seemed to be made of colourful sweets and confectionery. This image reminded both aces of the house from bedtime story: Hansel and Gretel, except much taller and witch-free. One could simply say that it lived up to the name.

Gerhard proceeded to push open the door, ringing the doorbell in process. Inside, the shop was pitch-black. Vinyl simply hurried inside, leaving the confused humans there.

There was something wrong with this situation; they both could feel it. Tom took the first step in. The plank creaked under the pressure from his foot.

”SURPRISE!”

Tom simply stumbled back and fell on his ass, but Gerhard drew his sidearm instinctively. The source of the agonizing cheer was mass amount of ponies who populated the shop.

The ponies in the room consisted of the mares they both had met so far, and dozens of young ponies in costumes.

Applejack wore a raggy shirt, stuffed with straws; some of them also sticking out of her tail. A straw hat with big sunflower adorned her head. Tom thought it was perfect for fooling any approaching foe while hiding in the field.

Rainbow Dash was in some kind of dark coloured rubber suit, several lightning bolts sewn on it. Some parts were exposed to maintain her flying ability.

Finally, Pinkie Pie, who clearly dressed as a chicken.

Seeing they were in no danger, Gerhard holstered his pistol while Tom picked himself up off the ground, face reddening in embarrassment. Gerhard then made his way inside cautiously, motioning for Tom to follow him, who was hesitant at first, but then he gave in and obliged.

Pinkie squeed in delight to see that they made it and dashed over to greet them.

“Hiya! Welcome to Ponyville just in time for Nightmare Night! You will definitely enjoy yourselves tonight!” She paused for breath. “I like your costume, by the way. Lemme guess who you dressed as!” she put a hoof on her chin; lost in thought. “Are you a zombie, Tommy?”

Tom nodded in reply, “Aye, zombie pilot.”

“And you must be the infamous Dolfy!” Gerhard’s heart skipped a beat. Eyes widened in shock. No one in this colourful world would know that name, but how did she know? He hadn’t told a soul about it. Maybe Tom had? He glared at the British ace, demanding for answer. Tom simply shook his head innocently in decline.

When he was about to question the pink mare, the shop’s door swung open; a large pony entered.

The mysterious pony had both a horn and a pair of wings. Her coat was as white as snow. A golden crown adorned her head, as well as the matching necklace on long neck. Her pastel coloured mane and tail was flowing; even though there wasn’t any wind in the building. An image of golden sun engraved on her flank.

From the looks of her, Tom thought she was a royalty of this land. Gerhard looked at her closely; she reminded him of the princess in his dream, but had difference tone of colour and was taller.

“Hello,” she greeted. Everypony in the room bowed down as soon as they noted her presence. “I’m princess Celestia, co-ruler of Equestria. Mr.Gerhard Barkhorn of the Luftwaffe, I presume?”

“Ja,” replied Gerhard. “How do you know mich?” he asked with concern look.

“Can we talk in private?” she asked calmly. “Your question will be answered shortly.” He nodded in agreement. “Do you mind if we use the back room, Pinkie?”

“O’course, Princess!” Pinkie cheerfully replied. Then, Gerhard and Celestia disappeared into the back room.

Tom stood there in silence, watching the two depart. He wondered what it was all about. Then curiosity got better of him. He grabbed a glass from the table and put it on the door.

“—you because my sister had informed me of your presence. You have absolutely nothing to worry about, Mr. Barkhorn.” Gerhard sighed in relief. “My sister also told me that you’re an ace of an Air Force.”

“Es ist true.”

“I’ve saw your flying contraption. It’s somewhat similar to the one that crashed here about a couple hundred years ago.” Gerhard’s suspicion arose. There was someone before them? And who could it be? He needed to find out.

“Majestät, Ist es possible zu habe ein look at that plane?” he asked.

The princess nodded, “Why yes! You may have some clue about the flyer. We have recovered a journal from his corpse—”

“Er ist tot?!” His eyes widened in shock, but soon he realized that he had spoken German. “Er… he’s deceased?” corrected Gerhard. Tom, who was eavesdropping, facepalmed; he got looks from everyone in the room.

“Tommy! Eavesdropping is totally not cool!” warned Rainbow Dash. Tom shushed her and whispered:

”Tis is important.”

“But we need to go ask for candy!” exclaimed Pinkie.

“Hav’ a head start. Will catch up,” he gestured to the front door without removing his ear from the door.

Suddenly, he heard a whisper from behind the door: “There’s no need to eavesdrop, Mister. You’re welcome in on this conversation.” Even though the voice was warm and caring, it sent a shiver down his spine. “Come in, don’t be shy.”

He complied and pushed the door open. The back room was simply a kitchen. The princess and Gerhard looked at him with a flat expression. He smiled sheepishly and joined the ring.

“Kann he kommst mit uns? Er ist an ace just like me,” said Gerhard.

“Sure,” she gave Tom a warm smile.

“Thomas McMorrow at yer service, yer highness!” he bowed slightly. The Princess looked pleased.

“I recall that you two have a party to attend. We shall travel to the storage when you are ready.” Tom and Gerhard nodded and left for the party.

When they rejoined the candy hunting party, everyone was gone.;only Vinyl waited for them.

“Pinkie said: time’s candy, so she left with everypony,” explained Vinyl, seemingly annoyed. “Let’s catch up with ‘em!” she exclaimed cheerfully and dashed out. Gerhard ran after, followed by Tom.

Gerhard then realized that Vinyl was wearing a pair of sunglasses, and it was at night.

Was zum Teufel? thought Gerhard.

“Vinyl, warum do you wear sunglasses at Nacht?” Gerhard arched his brow.

“Oh. These babies?” She removed it from her eyes. Her eyes were blood red; pretty terrifying for Gerhard. “She’s an enchanted shade. I can literally see in the dark. Pretty cool, huh?”

“O’ really?” said Tom. “Can I hav’ one, lass?” he asked hopefully. “Flying at night’s hard as hell.”

“Double das,” agreed Gerhard.

“You didn’t say the magic word…” Vinyl teased playfully.

Tom knelt down and grabbed her front legs. “Pleaseeee/” She giggled joyfully and nodded in acceptance. “YAY!” Tom shouted merrily. “It’s time fer Scotch!”

With that final statement of Tom, they reached the town square. The stage was set up. A podium stood on it; a mare dressed as clown with a colourful wig had just finished her speech.

A zebra emerged from behind the velvet curtain. Her name was Zecora. She had black-tipped muzzle. Her white mane combed to both sides of her head. Fake spiders adorned her mane. Several golden rings were wore over her neck; match with her ring earrings. She wore a raggy, yet, stylish black robe.

The said zebra spoke in rhyme. It was funny for Gerhard, but Tom was fascinated by her genius.

She led the young ponies, plus Pinkie Pie, into the Everfree Forest. The tale of Nightmare Night was told there in front Nightmare Moon’s statue. The tale was similar to American Halloween. The only differences were the character and purpose of asking for sweet from the adult ponies.

“Sh’ she don’t eat y’ ponies up when she got som’ sweet?” asked Tom. A colt walked up to him.

The said colt was white, but some certain spots such as his left eye, chest and flank was brown. He wore a white shirt; the sleeves were torn. A dark blue vest with golden button over the shirt. He also had a toy dagger sheathed in a green belt. He tied a red turban around his head. A black eye patch with a skull on it covered his right eye. In conclusion, he dressed as a pirate.

“Are you from ‘round Trottingham, Mister?” he asked in quite thick British accent. Tom neutral expression turned into delightful one when he heard the colt’s question.

“Nay, little boyo’, but it’s good t’ hear a familiar tongue,” Tom replied in joyful manner. “Tell me, young lad. What is yer name?”

“Pipsqueak at your service, sire!”

“Ho ho!” exclaimed Tom. “What a cute lil’ name!” complimented Tom. ”An’ good manner even, lil’ chap. Y’ deserve a medal!” Pip squeed happily and stood by Tom. The colt must have grew some interest in the British ace.

Out of nowhere, the cloud swirled around, leaving a clearing for the moon light to shine down. The children were scared, but Zecora kept them in line.

BOOM

The moonlight brightened for a moment, and a carriage hauled by two armoured… bat ponies? dove down toward them. They broke their dive and floated over them. Everypony looked at the flying object fearfully as a lighting struck down. The flash illuminated the environment, revealing the hooded passenger’s face.

“IT’S NIGHTMARE MOON! RUN!” Pinkie shouted, creating a chaos. The ponies stampeded back the path they had come through.

Tom put a hand on Pip’s back before he joined the stampede, “‘Fraid not, boyo’. Y’ are safe wit’ me.” The white colt looked up at him and nodded.

Seeing nopony, the carriage’s passenger ordered the bat pony to follow them. Both haulers saluted and flapped their bat-like wings extremely quick before the carriage set its way toward Ponyville.

Gerhard instantly followed the mysterious contraption. Tom lifted Pip up into his arms and ran after Gerhard.

*****

When Gerhard arrived at the scene, everypony was cowering behind their legs. The only pony standing was Princess Luna, who was the one who had been in his dream the night before.

She was taller than anypony, but still smaller than her sister, Princess Celestia. Her midnight blue coat was as dark as night sky. The flowing blue mane superseded the nocturnal sky with thousands of stars. She wore a necklace similar to Celestia’s, but with a crescent moon in place of the gem.

Displeased by the frightened bow of her subjects, she started walking through the crowd of scared ponies. “Very well then, be that way! We won’t even bother with traditional royal farewell!” Luna departed from the crowd and headed for the forest.

Tom put Pip down on the ground and pat the colt’s head. “Be strong, lad. Now, run along ta yer lil candy huntin’ party.” Pip nodded in an understanding manner and ran into the town.

The two group met each other on their way. Gerhard’s eyes met her. A small smile crept on her face. She seemed pretty pleased

“Ah! It’s thou again, Gerhard Barkhorn,” shouted Luna. “How art thy injuries?” she asked loudly in a calm manner.

“Alle healed, princess,” he replied and gave a salute. “Shouting as usua.,”

“Thou needst not be too formal, Herr Barkhorn.” She grinned. “We understand that thou haveth conversed with our sister.”

He nodded, “Ja, I habe packed mein gear.” Tom gave him a questioning look, “I vill explain later,” he whispered and winked.

“Princess Luna?” came a voice from the bush. It was Twilight

She was wearing a wizard costume with long fake white beard which swayed along her movement. Her cape was decorated with hundreds of stars and crescent moons, and several bells at the end of the fabric. “Hi. My name is—”

“Starswirl the Bearded,” interrupted Luna. “Commendable costume. Thou even get the bells right,” she complimented with flat expression.

“Thank you!” She held up a hoof as if she had achieved something glorious. “Finally, somepony who gets my costume!” Luna gave her a worried look. Her eyes darted around the clearing from the awkwardness.

“Bitte, excuse uns für a moment,” Gerhard said and walked into the bush, pushing Tom into it.

“What’s it?” Tom asked as he removed a sharp-tipped leaves from his jacket.

“Wir sind zu pack up und join Das Wonderbolt,” explained Gerhard. “Es ist their air force.” he added.

Tom arched his brow, “And, why d’ we hav’ ta join?”

“Remember Princess Celestia?” Tom nodded. “She may be able zu send us home!” Gerhard exclaimed, trying to keep his voice down from the joy in him. The British ace wore a bemused expression on his face. “But ihr need ein month zu prepare,”

“O’ really?!” shouted Tom. He held Gerhard’s shoulders in his tight grasp. “And how r’ we gon’ ta fly? Grow wings and go chirping at the enemy?”

“Well,” Gerhard started awkwardly, “Der Welt ist filled mit magical talking ponies…” he paused, “Anything ist possible.”

A long silence embraced the bush. Contrasting with the outside, which was filled with Luna’s shout; sometimes a strong wind current was created as she spoke. They both wondered why, but shrugged it off to deal with the event at hand.

“Right...” Tom muttered sarcastically. “She said something ‘bout a dead pilot. We’ll look forward ta that.”

“Ja,” Gerhard murmured thoughtfully. “Let’s get out of this verdammten Busch,”

They managed to get out without much problem on the blasted bush, but Tom’s suspicion arose when he noted the shape of the leaves, so Tom inspected it closely.

It turned out to be a bush of stinging nettle…

“Bloody hell!” Tom cursed in both rageful and surprise manner. “Now things gon’ ta get scratchy.”

“HAH HA AHA HA!” came a laughter from behind the bush.

“Who goes there!?” Tom shouted while drawing his Webley.

“It’s me, Vinyl!” She emerged out of another stinging nettle bush.

Tom snickered pleasantly as the unicorn mare approached. “Are y’ following us, Vinyl?” he asked with a flat expression, but inside, he was laughing his arse off.

“Naw man, I was here the whole time. You just didn’t realize,” she explained, still giggling from the randomly played joke. “Anyway, I made you two these!” She levitated two pairs of sunglasses out and gave them to both humans.

Gerhard’s lens were tinted black. The frame was made with gold, which made his eyes widen in shock.

But Tom’s was simply a pane of blue tinted lens with plastic frame. Even still, Tom thought it was an awesome design; weird.

They both put on their newly acquired items without hesitation. Gerhard smiled happily when he saw the result of the enchantment. The environment was lit up as if it was in middle of the day.

“We better follow. This woods is creeping me out,” said Tom. “Can’t bloody believe that I didn’t jump inta any nettle ‘n the first day…” he muttered in annoyance as walked away, scratching the rash on his ass.

*****

“Why do alle look so sad?” Gerhard asked as he looked around the street.

“Luna has cancelled Nightmare Night forever!” cried Pip. “Gosh, I never thought my very first Nightmare Night will be my very last…” His head lowered down sadly.

BOOM

The sudden outburst of explosion startled both ponies and the two humans. The source of the agonizing noise was from over the Everfree forest. Gerhard looked up with his night vision glasses on. The object he saw threw him into alert state: a glider.

It was a DFS-230 B-1 model, famous for deploying Fallschrimjäger paratroops behind the wall of fort Eben-Emael in Belgium to destroy the defensive armaments. It could carry ten equipped troops, including the pilot, plus extra two hundred seventy kilograms. The fuselage was ten metres long, and twice the length on wingspan. It was in usual German’s grey with darker grey dots camouflage the lower half of the fuselage.

It glided past them, leaving the confused ponies behind. If there was a glider, there would be a pilot and nine more soldiers in that thing. So, Gerhard hurried to the direction it had gone. Tom, who was following his instinct, ran after the German ace.

*****

Meanwhile in the glider…

“Ist das nicht neben einem Strand Melame? (Isn’t Melame next to a beach?)” said a paratrooper.

“Ja, es ist (Yes, it is)” answered another paratrooper. “Kreta ist eine Insel, nachdem alle. (Crete is an island, after all.)”

“Dann nicht, warum es einen Strand? (Then, why aren't there any beach?)” the same paratroop asked again.

“Oh Mund halten, Franz. Ich bin sicher, dass das Schleppflugzeug flog in die richtige Richtung, (Oh shut up, Franz. I’m sure that the tow-plane flew into the right direction)” the third paratrooper grumbled annoyingly.

“Fein, (Fine)” Franz muttered deceptively.

“Das ist wirklich seltsam, Lud. Die Landschaft sieht nicht so Mittelmeer zu mir, (This is really strange, Lud. The landscape doesn't look so Mediterranean to me)” suggested the first paratrooper. “Ava, sind Sie sicher, dass wir in die richtige Richtung glitt? (Ava, are you sure we glided in the right direction?)”

The female pilot turned away from the cockpit’s window. “Ich bin mir nicht sicher… (I’m not sure…)” she replied. “Wenn wir verpassten die LZ, würden wir von Tommys Flak jetzt verprügelt werden. (If we missed the LZ, we would be pummeled by Tommy's ack-ack gun by now.)” She turned back and checked the compass. “Wo immer wir sind, müssen wir jetzt landen. (Wherever we are, we need to land now.)”

The paratroops in back readied their MP-40s and KAR-98Ks, gulping nervously. The atmosphere in the engineless aircraft tensed up as it descended from the night sky into the clear field below. A bump from the contact with the ground, it slid for a few metres, then stopped dead there in the open.

Ava flung the cockpit’s lid open and climbed out. The rest of the squad simply opened the door on the side and walked out. They open the equipment storage. They took their respective rucksacks, swinging it around on their back.

Looking around, they saw a village and an apple orchard. From what they noticed, there wasn’t any sign of their enemy; neither soldier nor defensive armament. It was probably why Ava had chosen this very spot to land.

Wasting no more valuable time and risking their lives, the squad ran into the nearest strategic point: the apple orchard.

Awaiting the plan from Ludwig, the unit spread out to secure the perimeter.

Then, three silhouettes of equines flew down from the sky and landed in the field. They fiddled with their glider curiously. Franz spotted them first. He did a double take.

Did they just fly down? thought Franz.

Suddenly, two silhouettes of men came running from the town. Franz started to panick and fixed his submachine gun at them, warned his comrades, and removed the safety.

CLICK

He furrowed his brows in annoyance; his weapon had betrayed him. The mysterious men and equines turned to them. He fired a burst of bullets.

They missed, alerting the two men. The rest of the unit was about to open fire, but one of the alerted men shouted: “Freundlich! Freundlich! Halten Sie Ihr Feuer! (Friendly! Friendly! Hold your fire!)”

The squad released their fingers from the triggers, lowering their guns, “Nennen Sie Ihren Namen und Rang! (State your name and rank!)” shouted Ludwig.

“Leutnant Gerhard Barkhorn, JG-52, Luftwaffe!” he yelled in reply. “Kann ich näher kommen? (Can I go closer?)”

Ava eyes widened in shock. She emerged from her cover and ran to him. “Gerd?” She hugged him tightly.

“Ava!” He hugged back. Tears of joy cascading down from his eyes.

She looked up at him and scrunched her face, “Warum sind Sie imitiert den Führer? (Why are you mimicking the führer?)”

Chapter 8: Piece of the Past

Chapter 8: Piece of the Past

“Macht nichts, dass. (Never mind that.)” Gerhard looked away, pursing his lips worriedly. “Wie auch immer, es ist gut, dich wieder zu sehen, Schatz. (Anyway, it's good to see you again, sweetie.)” He hugged her tightly.

“Ja, Schatz…” She returned the favour in full.

Tom could only stand there and observe the couple. He gave them an envious look and turned away, Lovey dovey, he thought.

“Ich meine nicht, um die Stimmung zu ruinieren… (I don't mean to ruin the mood…)” started Franz, “aber können Sie uns sagen, wo sind wir? (but can you tell us where are we?)” he asked nervously.

Gerhard released the hug and put a hand on his chin, “Umm… Dies kann klingt verrückt, aber wir sind nicht mehr auf der Erde nicht mehr. (Umm… This may sound crazy, but we are no longer on Earth anymore.)” The paratroopers shared a collective curious look. “Ich glaube, wir sind auf einem ganz anderen Planeten. (I believe we are on a whole different planet.)”

Tom rolled his eyes, Kraut… he thought annoyingly. How much does it hurt to learn some English?!

“Gut!” exclaimed Gerhard. “Ich sage dir, eine kurze Version meiner Geschichte, (I shall tell you a short version of my story)” he said with an assuring smile. “Es begann im September 1940…(It all started in September 1940…)”

*****

The German paratroopers had been sitting on the ground since Gerhard reached the part when he was attacked by the Timberwolves. They all fixed their attention on Gerhard, staying quiet while he was talking.

“Nun noch eine Frage? (Now, any questions?)” asked Gerhard. Franz raised his arm nervously.

"Herr Leutnant, von dem, was ich verstehe: Sie war hier für ein paar Tage. Habe ich Recht? (Lieutenant, from what I understand: you had been here for a few days. Am I right?)” Gerhard nodded in reply, “Aber das ist heute 20. Mai 1941…(But today is May 20th 1941…)”

“Seltsam, (Weird)” said Ava.

“Oh!” Gerhard exclaimed surprisingly, “Enschuldigung, Princess.” He smiled sheepishly. “They sind ah…” He left off there, thinking. He didn’t find any good explanation. His eyes darted around nervously.

Tom sighed and buried his face into his hand. “Lemme handle this, Jerry,” he said, boredom in his voice. “Princess, they ar’ soldiers, same country wit’ Jerry there. They seem to’ share the same mishap wit’ us. That’s all.”

Luna was lost in thought for a moment, piecing the story together. A few seconds later, she finished her thinking, “In that case…” she said monotonously, “Willkommen in Equestria, meine Herren.”

“Jerry,” Tom whispered into the German ace’s ear, “Can y’ ask yer friend if any o’ ‘em can speak English?”

Gerhard nodded, “Männer!” he shouted, getting their attention. “Kann jemand von Sprechen Sie Englisch? (Can any of you speak English?)”

A short man raised his hand and stepped forward gingerly. He was extremely short for a paratrooper. Too short, in fact. How he had managed to pass the examination, Gerhard had no idea. His eyes were covered by his helmet, but Gerhard caught a glimpse of chestnut brown eyes behind the protection gear. Acne was dotted all over his face like rain . His windcoat covered his upper legs, making him looked even shorter. The MP 40 in his hand easily halved his height.

“How ol’ are ya, lad,” Tom approached and asked, looking down at the short man.

“Eighteen,” he replied, looking straight forward to Tom’s chest.

“Liar,” Tom spitted, “How ol’ are ya.”

“Sixteen,” he said again, his voice trembling with fear.

“Liar!” Tom yelled furiously.

“Fine…” the man muttered, “I’m fifteen…” He looked up at Tom’s face, frowning deeply.

Tom’s eyes widened in shock. Fifteen? Bloody hell! How can Kraut recruit a lil’ kid into a fight?! he thought grimly. “How did ye pass the exam?” he asked.

“The age requirement is sixteen. I lied to the inspector,” the boy explained irritatingly. He tried to remain disciplined in Gerhard’s sight; the German ace outranked the boy after all. Despite this, he couldn’t help but cross him arms and slack his leg.

“Jus’ don’t do anything stupid, boyo,” warned Tom, “Y’ may git inta a problem that yer can’t resolve.”

The boy rolled his eyes, “All right, all right, old man,” he replied annoyingly. “My name is Franz Addison, half English. German mom, British dad; don’t know his origin. I’m pretty sure he lives somewhere on the British Isle. The equivalent of my rank in your army would be…” He paused there, thinking hard. “Erm.. Herr Leutnant, hilfe? Ich bin ein Soldat.” He smiled sheepishly and pat his head.

Gerhard chuckled lightly and answered: “Private.”

“A private, yes, of course. Thank you, lieutenant,” said Franz. “Now, that I have introduced myself. What about you, old man?” Tom made a resentful expression at the given nickname; he was only thirty.

“Thomas McMorrow, Royal Air Force, Wing 127. An’ I’m not yer ol’ man, boyo. I’m just thirty.” He offered a handshake. Franz complied and jolted his hand weakly.

As they released each other’s hands, the carriage from their earlier encounter with Princess Luna landed beside them. Once again, it was towed by the bat guards.

Princess Luna simply hopped on, “We have arranged temporary dwelling for thy friends. Our guard shall lead them to it.” With that statement, a bat guard stepped out of darkness. Everyone was surprised by his trickery except Gerhard and Tom, who were wearing the enchanted shades. “Now, Herr Barkhorn, shall we proceed to the depository?”

“Aye.”

“Ja.” he turned to Ava, “Schätz, folgen dieser Wache. (Honey, follow that guard.)” She looked at him sadly, “Sorgen Sie sich nicht, werde ich unsere Wohnung so schnell wie ich kann, zu arrangieren. (Worry not, I'll arrange our dwelling as soon as I can.)” He calmed her. It definitely worked wonders as a smile returned to her gorgeous face.

“Climb on,” Princess Luna said.

They complied without any further question. “Take us to the depository, sires.” The towing bat guards flapped their wings swiftly, and then made a run into the field. The carriage gradually ascended from the ground, leaving the clear field behind as they disappeared into the darkness of the night.

*****

The carriage soared swiftly through the cold air of the night. The trip wasn’t as long as Gerhard had thought. In fact, it was even shorter than it should have been. He had almost asked the princess, but Princess Celestia’s words entered his mind:

It’s a kilometre from this town.

But Tom had no idea, so he asked: “Why is it so close, yer Highness?”

“We thought our sister hath informed thou of that?” Tom shook his head, but Gerhard, who was observing the passing landscape, nodded roughly.

“Why didn’t yer tell, me Jerry?” Tom asked resentfully.

“You didn’t ask,” said Gerhard, “und Princess Celestia caught you red handed while you were eavesdropping.”

Tom sighed. “Fine…”

A long silence followed as they landed next to a high mountain. Both aces could say that the bat guards were really professional flyers, judging from their slow descent and the gentle touching of the wheels on the ground. The towing guards gradually slowed down and stopped dead in their tracks.

Upon exiting the carriage, Gerhard noticed that there was a fairly large hole on the side of the peak, covered with bushes and vines to camouflage the cavity.

Princess Luna’s horn lit up; the bushes and vines faded away, uncovering a large metal gate further inside the cavern.

“Thine optics art enchanted with night vision arcane,” Princess Luna explained. “Illumination of the interior shouldn’t be required.” Both aces were curious about her knowledge of their newly acquired items, but they decided not to ask.

They approached the gate. Princess Luna inserted her horn into the hole and shot a burst of magic into it. The entrance softly glowed blue and slid to the side, making an entry for the group.

“Stand vigilant, sires.” Princess Luna ordered. Both of the bats saluted in reply and positioned themselves on both sides of the entrance.

“We shall proceed inside. Be aware, this storage is like a maze, thou doth not wish to get lost down there.” Princess Luna warned with a grim face.

“We understand, Eure Hoheit,” Gerhard said, craning his neck to see into the long hallway. “Für unsere safety…” he gulped.

“Then proceed we shall. Stay close to us.”

Princess Luna led them both down the long and dark hallway. With their enchanted glasses on, it was as bright as a sunny day down there. As she had told Gerhard about herself in his dream, she probably could see in the pitch black environment too. She was the ‘Princess of The Night’, after all.

They made left and right turns. True to her word: it was really a maze down there. They occasionally passed through a large room with millions of wooden crates, all of them varying in size. Tom wondered what they could possibly be; possibly artifacts and valuable items. There were also lanterns hanging from the ceiling.

How could they reach and light all that? Tom wondered idly as he stumbled upon a cracked open crate.

The crate itself was very old, judging from the colour of the wood and rust on the nails. Another thing: there was a creepy voice emitting from within the box.

Overcome by curiosity, he snuck to the box and peeked inside. To his surprise, it was a sword. Even though the time had passed, the sword was as rustless and shiny as a newly minted coin. The whisper he had heard from earlier was coming from the sword itself.

“Head… Head… Head…”

“Hello?” Tom greeted quietly and pulled the cutlass out of the crate. It brilliantly glowed green.

The sword seemed to have a mind of its own, replying: “Please… Use me to… decapitate… something…”

“Thomas, what in Tartarus art thou performing over there?!” Tom flinched, dropping the blade to the concrete floor

“Ouch…” the sword groaned quietly. The once brilliant aura diminished to a soft, green glow, leaving some kind of dark fog behind.

“Whoops, sorry,” Tom apologized sheepishly. He carefully picking the sword up again. “Ar’ ye all right, Mista Sword?”

“Please… decapitate… something… swordsman…” the sword begged, it’s voice trembling and crackling. It must have been so long since it last beheaded anything.

“Your highness, can ye portray yer story o’ this sword?” Tom asked, running his hand on the side of the blade. It radiated gentle green light upon his touch, startling him.

Luna started searching her memory for the suitable answer. It took a while before she remembered. “This sword’s origin is unknown. Our sister hath informed us of it recently. Twas found in our absence,” she coughed, “on the moon.” another cough. “Our researcher hath questioned said sword.” She gestured toward the blade. “It said that it was the sword of a mighty king called ‘Richard the Lionheart’.”

Tom’s eyes widened, looking back at the ancient sword. His eyes gleamed with fascination and excitement. Back when he was in school, he learned how to fence, and he was very good at it. His dad also trained him in the art of counter-attacking too.

“We taketh it that thou recognize this King?” assumed Luna, “Wouldst thou mind to educate us of thy knowledge?” she asked flatly.

“Aye.” Tom responded in excitement, “King Richard, or as you call him, Richard the Lionheart, was the King o’ England, which is where I live nowadays, back in the Medieval times, about eight hundreds years ago. Reigned fer ten years, more er less. Led the crusaders in the third crusade. He’s pretty famous too. That’s pretty much all I know.”

“Fascinating!” Luna exclaimed with her Royal Canterlot Voice, which made Tom stumble backwards. Some smaller crates fell off their original places, scattering random objects all around. “Oops.” She shielded her muzzle. “Remind us not to use the Royal Canterlot Voice inside any establishment…”

“Jawohl,” Gerhard said, giving her a quick salute.

“Less… talking… more… killing…” the sword whispered weakly, “I… need… power… please…”

“Wat should I do, yer highness?” Tom asked, facing the princess and lifting the sword up slightly.

“Since thou knowest its origin, the honour of returning it to its rightful place is in thy hands,” Princess Luna said.

Tom arched his brow in confusion. Oh me mother! How I hate those fancy puzzle coded talk! he thought without showing any annoyed expression. “So…”

“You kannst keep it,” Gerhard explained shortly.

The usual frown on Tom’s face transformed into a gleeful beam in an instant. He quickly searched the crate for its sheath and, after finding it, rejoined the little group and continue the journey to find the aircraft.

*****

“We were very troubled when there was a dragon dwelling on the very peak above us,” Princess Luna told the group, “but with luck, Twilight Sparkle and her friends managed to evict it.”

“Why was there ein dragon in der first place?” Gerhard asked,

“We have no idea, Herr Barkhorn,” They made another turn. “The dragon’s cave was one of many entrances in this structure. Our sister actually proposed to employ the dragon for extra security. Twas a shame that we were not swift enough.”

“A dragon ta guard the entrance? Sounds familiar, doesn’t it, Jerry?” Tom questioned with a grin.

Gerhard shared a light chuckle “Ja.”

The group walked into a dead-end. Confused, Princess Luna conjured a map out of thin air and observed it. They had made a wrong turn in the last two corners, and needed to go back.

Tom sighed, “We’ve been walkin’ fer—” He pulled out his pocket watch, “—an hour now. Ar’ we there yet?”

“Neigh, but close.” She looked the map again before making another turn.

Suddenly, a screech rang from behind them. Knowing that this wasn’t natural, Gerhard and Tom pulled out their sidearms and unlocked the safety. Tom broke the top off, checked his ammunition. (four having been used in the Timberwolf incident), and quickly reloaded it. Sadly, he only had a dozen magazines left.

“Don’ get trigger happy now, Tom,” he muttered while loading the cylinder.

Gerhard released his magazine. There were only three rounds left in the current one, the last one sitting in his pocket, fully loaded. The small caliber of 9 mm caused little damage, so that meant that he had to shoot accurately from now on.

Normally, people couldn’t see in the dark, but with the enchanted shades, they could. There were ponies lurking in the dark, moving with great speed and agility; so fast that they became a blur.

Squinting his eyes, Gerhard caught a glimpse of bat-like wings in the blur. Luna’s Bat guard?

One of them had gone out of their sight, leaving another one behind. The remaining bat charged toward them, galloping evasively.

Aiming precisely, Gerhard fired a burst at the assaulting enemy. For some reason, they missed completely. Reloading was too late at that point, so he pulled his gravity knife from its sheath in his boot. With a fluid motion, he flung the lever and spun it in his hand. The blade slid out smoothly.

The approaching foe leapt into the air, wishing to tackle him. It was the split second that he could see his attacker’s face clearly. It wasn’t Luna’s guard, but it was a bat pony. Its pupils were as red as blood, mirroring his reflection, and its jaw hung open, revealing two long fangs on the upper jaw.

“Vampire!” Gerhard shouted in panic as the creature reached him.

He grabbed its neck and stabbed it right below the ear. Blood spurted out from the wound, staining his hand. Suddenly, a burning smell erupted from the vampire’s body.

To his surprise, it was ignited by green fire. Gerhard quickly removed his knife and kicked the blood sucking monster. It stumbled backward and fell on the ground, screaming in agony.

Tom, who was watching the whole scene, jumped in with his sword and planted it into the vampire’s chest. Its heart was pierced for sure, but it was still moving.

“Ahh!” The sword roared victoriously, “Yes! Now, cut its head off!” Tom complied and sliced the leech’s head clean off. “YES! Finally after a millenia in that bloody box! Thank you, swordsman. I shall grant you the mark of the Peregrinus as my appreciation!”

With that, Tom’s left hand began to burn. He winced and knelt down, enduring the pain. A small spot on the back of his hand started darkening. When the pain died down, a cross was embedded into his skin.

“This mark shall grant me the ability to circulate my power into you, allowing you to use it,” stated the sword, “At the moment, you can only use two ability at the moment, though.”

“An’ what pray tell, is ye power?” Tom asked in a trembling voice. The sword simply radiated its green glow again. But this time, the black fog which usually came with it flowed into Tom’s head.

“Cut more head for newer and better power. However, you have your limit each day. Sleep to regenerate your power, or shed some enemy’s blood on my blade.”

All of a sudden, the last vampire materialized from the thin air behind Princess Luna, preparing to bite onto her neck.

Tom clenched his hand, the cross on his hand lighting up. “Fero,” he muttered. Within a blink of an eye, he teleported over the vampire pony’s head and prepared to finish it.

Gerhard acted fast and threw his knife at the pony.

At the same time that Gerhard’s knife penetrated the devil’s skull, Tom’s blade pierced its heart. He jumped off the corpse of the vampire just in time before it was set ablaze, then decapitated its head.

“To inform you, cutting the head off of a dead body counts as a ‘half-head’. Also, my name is Thorpe,” the sword explained.

“Nice ta know ye, Thorpe. Name’s Thomas McMorrow. Can ah call ye Thor?”

“Aye. And can I call you Tom?”

“O’ course, me metal friend!”

“I don’t want zu interrupt, but wir should get going, schnell. Before any more von ihnen show up,” said Gerhard. He removed his knife from the scorched cadaver and wiped it on his boot.

With that, they began to run instead of walking, wIth Luna in the lead, carrying her map, They finally arrived at their destination.

In front of them was a huge steel hangar gate. Both aces had seen hangar doors on a regular basis, but never in their lifetime had they seen any of this magnitude. There was the same hole in the door as the entrance they had encountered an hour ago. Princess Luna walked up to the door and repeated the same procedure she had used with the previous door.

As soon as she pulled her long horn out, the door started moving slowly to the side. Due to the slowness of the mechanism, they walked to the creak of the door in order to save more of their precious time.

In the hangar was an aircraft with three wings. It was painted red, adorned with iron crosses on both side of the wings, tail, and fuselage. A single seated fighter. Twin machine guns that faced forward were installed on front of the canopy. Anyone who knew about the first World War would recognize this legendary fighter immediately.

It belonged to Manfred Von Richtofen, or the name we all recognize: “The Red Baron…”

Chapter 9: End of the Legend

Chapter 9: End of the Legend

Gerhard was the first to run to the plane. He wasted no time in questioning anything. As he reached the aircraft, he noted that there were numerous bullet holes along the fuselage and wings.The first thing he did was to look for the pilot.

And, of course, he wasn’t there.

Tom approached slowly, gazing at the plane with admiration in his eyes. For him, the Red Baron was a legendary plane. He felt honoured to see it and had studied the way Manfred Von Richofen flew. Swift and beautiful, yet deadly.

“Where ist he, your Highness?” asked Gerhard. He looked into the cockpit. there was a stain of dried blood on the seat. What happened? he wondered.

“Follow us,” commanded Luna. She then used her magic, the ground shook violently as if she had triggered an earthquake with her magic.

After that, the ground nearby sank down silently, forming a stairway. Luna took the lead and headed down, followed by Gerhard and Tom.

Along their way downward, there were lit torches on both sides of the wall. How did she light all these torches? Tom wondered, but the question simply answered itself: magic.

Mind telling me about yourself, Tom? Thor’s whisper rang his head. It made him flinch, but he maintained his grace and continued walking.

How can yer do that, Thor? Tom asked in his head.

Do what?

Speakin’ in me head like this!

Oh. It’s just telepathic communication. Worry not, my friend, Thor said assuringly, You’ll only get a headache afterward. Then, your head will explode. Blood and gore everywhere, yeah! Tom face turned pale. Just kidding!

Fine, jus’ try not tah distract lil’ ol’ me, all right?

Will do! Thor replied enthusiastically.

Born in 1911. Mother’s dead from disease. Dad, been shot in ye filthy trench by a Hun. I held no anger, b’cus ey jus’ do their duty as we do.

So, it’s been eight hundred years already… Thor said sadly, I kinda miss Richard, he was a nice fellow.

Sorry fer that, Thor. But nothin’ can elude the time

Of course, it’s purely logical.

“Tommy, was are du thinking?” asked Gerhard, who noticed that the British ace was spacing out.

“O’ it’s nothin’, was wonderin’ how long will ye bloody stair be,” he lied, hastening his pace. The stairs seemed endless. “So, yer highness. How long’s ye stairs? We ‘av been walkin’ fer ten minutes!”

“Hush, it’s not any longer now, Mister Tom,” replied Luna, “We should have teleported thou in the first place...”

“Why didn’t yer do it?” Tom asked gingerly.

Princess Luna frowned. “We… forgot…” That answer hit Gerhard, making him grin uncontrollably.

“Enschuldigung, your Highness.” Gerhard covered his mouth, preventing any laughter from escaping.

The stairs finally ended in a hallway which led to a plain white room. In the center of the room was a glass coffin, holding the body of Manfred Von Richtofen, still dressed in his uniform.

In front of the transparent casket was a podium with a book on it.

Gerhard made a beeline for it, but was held back by Princess Luna’s magical grasp. She quickly cast a spell on him before letting him go. She nodded quietly, permitting him to move forward. She smiled lightheartedly, before she casting the same spell with Tom.

As Gerhard entered the room from the hallway, he felt a strange sensation around him. It was the lack of moisture in the air and coldness. This room was probably enchanted to preserve its content. He walked up the coffin, looking at the Red Baron’s lifeless body.

It was sorrowful to see a man with such a great ability in a coffin. He would have love to meet this man when he was more…alive.

Opening the book, he flipped it to the last page. Surprisingly, most of it was covered in blood.

“Tis a book written in an unknown language. The researchers tried their best to decrypt it, but no avail,” Luna explained. “Thine flying contraption is quite similar to the one upstairs, so we thought that either one of thou can read it.”

“Jerry can, yer Highness.” Tom said, pointing at Gerhard, who was engaged in reading.

“Would thou mindest to inform us, Herr Barkhorn?”

Gerhard perked up from the book. “Jawohl,” he replied flatly. “His name ist Manfred Von Richtofen; ein German name. Er ist quite eine legend back home. Best of the pilots. Ace of aces.” He paused, “But that was twenty years ago…”

“Git on with it already, Jerry. Tell ‘er what yer know from ye book!” Tom urged impatiently.

“Fine,” said Gerhard, picking the book up. “Dies ist his journal. Most of es was his log each day, except the last page.” He turned to the said page. “It was his last word…”

“Read it for us, Herr Barkhorn. Twas all we ask.”

Gerhard sighed, “Jawohl,” he said then cleared his throat. “April 21st 1918, Zu anyone who finds dies journal, please, give this zu Käte Otersdorf. She ist eine German nurse. I do not know how long kann I keep writing this. Käte, I should have listen zu you. Mein Kopf ist not healed completely, es ist bleeding. I also got shot, again…” Tom pursed his lips nervously. “I don’t think I will survive dies time. Find someone to settle with, someone who ist better than dieser arrogant pilot. By die time they take mir to das Krankenhaus, I would probably be dead. I love you, Kä—” He suddenly stopped.

“Why would y’ stop? Continue!” demanded Tom.

“Das writing endete there, Tommy. Er muss met his demise there.”

“Oh,” he murmured. “Sorry, Jerry.”

“Es ist in Ordnung,” said Gerhard, closing the journal and putting it back where it belonged. “Wir must leave now. Shouldn’t disturb him any longer…” With that, he exited the room and went back upstairs hastily.

Princess Luna simply followed Gerhard, leaving Tom alone in the chamber.

The said man walked up to the glass coffin and saluted the corpse. “Thanks fer inspirin’ me back then, Baron. Good bye,” Tom said and hurried off the tomb after the two.

It took a while before he could catch up with the others. From now on, I officially hate stairs! He thought offensively as he skipped two steps of stairs, almost stumbling onto his own leg. He cursed under his breath. Even an athletic man like himself could be conquered by endless stairs. Seeking for solution, he asked Thor with the telepathic link they had made:

These bloody stairs ar’ endless! Hav’ any idea how ta git to the top?

Have you forgot already? I *gave** you the power to teleport. However, your first teleport is inside the maximum range. Cut more heads to increase the maximum distance,* Thor said flatly, sending information of the heads required into Tom’s mind.

I’ll attend h’at later. Now, I need ta blink to the top, said Tom, raising his left hand and clenching his fist. Usual glow lit the mark alight, then he whispered: “Fero.” Immediately, he evaporated into the air, leaving a small cloud of black fog behind.

In a blink of an eye, Tom appeared again several metres away from his original position. Blink huh? Interesting name. Richard named it ‘apparate’, but I am yours now, so new name it is! Thor said cheerfully in his head. Tom chuckled at that statement and blinked again.

“Tommy, slow down!” Gerhard shouted from far behind. “Oh! Never—” there was a flash and a loud noise, “—mind!” Strangely, Tom heard his voice in front of him.

He blinked once again. This time, right on top of the stairway. “Blinkin’ like this is getting tiresome…” He trailed off there, staring blankly at Gerhard and Luna.

Gerhard looked at Tom worriedly. What’s wrong with him? he thought, waving his hand before Tom’s face. The British ace still froze there, drooling. His eyes fluttering endlessly, and then fell on the floor, out cold.

“He shouldn’t have blinked that continuously…” Thor said annoyingly. He would facepalm hard, if he had hands… “Help the poor devil, will you?”

Gerhard compiled by lifting Tom up. Luckily, the unconscious ace wasn’t too heavy, so he managed to put him on his shoulder. “So, was now, Princess?” he asked with a grunt.

“Thou shalt rest, Herr Barkhorn. This Night is rough enough,” said Luna. “Early at dawn, we shall send a party of researchers to study upon your flying craft. They shall be under thy supervision, and thou shall share the information with them. Understood?”

“Verstanden.” He dropped Tom there and saluted her. “Und was should I do about him?” He asked and pointed at the unconscious ace.

“Doth thou have any idea where he dwells?” she asked back. Gerhard declined with a shake of his head. “Doth thou have any place to sleep tonight?” He nodded. “Then thou shalt take him. Cometh thou upon thine own way of taking care for him whilst you walk.”

“Jawohl, now wir need zu exit this place…” He made a grumpy face and sighed, walking out of the hanger.

“Halt! This time we shall teleport us out!” shouted Princess Luna, lighting up her horn.

After a flash, the world spun around him. He tightened his grasp on Tom, not wanting him to fly anywhere. A second later, he could feel his feet again. He stumbled, almost falling on the ground. Probably need to get use to that… he thought irritably.

Gerhard took note of their surrounding once the headache from teleportation had gone. He and Luna were at the gate outside once again. The two bat guards still stood there with a flat expression. The moon was on the opposite side of the sky, making way for the sun.

“Sires, take us to Ponyville,” Luna ordered, walking to the carriage.

The two guards hastily towed themselves with the transport. Luna stepped on gracefully while Gerhard slowly hauled Tom with him to the carriage and dumped the knocked out Tom inside. Even if he was somewhat light, Gerhard couldn’t carry him all the time.

Helping himself to get on the carriage, Gerhard dropped his Walther P38. He immediately realized that it needed to be reloaded. The sidearm was picked up and reloaded. His ammunition were running low; only a single magazine left. Could the ponies make more ammunition with magic? *he pondered curiously.*

“Princess?” said Gerhard, gaining Luna’s attention, “Since Sie kann do Magie. Können Sie duplicate something like dieses?” He dropped his magazine and pulled a bullet out.

Luna pulled it out of his hand, inspecting the object closely. As the carriage took off into the air, the bullet slipped from her magical grasp. It flew overboard, tumbling down to the earth as the carriage ascended.

He frowned deeply at Luna, who was smiling and patting her own head sheepishly. She apologized and promised that she will make a new one; if she could...

Giving her another sample of the bullet, this time holding it himself, Luna began the examination. “What sorcery is this?” Luna muttered guardedly as she switched position to look at it from another angle.

“Ein Kugel,” answered Gerhard. “Es is ein shell filled mit gunpowder, which kann exploded on Kontakt mit feuer, capped mit ein shaped metal head, usually made of lead,” he explained boastfully. “Die Explosion will propel die lead through die barrel, making es travel straight vorwärts. Die speed des Projektils ist about five-hundred metre per Sekunde. Anything in its path will be pierced.” Luna’s eyes widened in excitement. The most powerful projectile weaponry she knew so far was just a crossbow, so Gerhard’s sidearm astounded her greatly. “Well, except thick Platte aus Metall und wall,” Gerhard added dryly.

Luna was about to ask another question, but Ponyville came into view on the horizon, and the carriage began to descend, attempting to land in the meadow next to town. Gerhard holstered his pistol and crouched down, picking Tom up. He grunted softly as the British ace was swung onto his shoulder once again.

The carriage touched the grassy ground with a soft ‘thud’. The towing guards started to slow down, and stopped dead in middle of the field. He exited the carriage roughly with Tom.

“Thou couldst inform us more about thy armament soon via Twilight Sparkle,” said Luna, “Farewell, Herr Barkhorn.” With that, the carriage took off, disappeared on the horizon.

“Now, zu get back to Octavia’s Haus,” Gerhard muttered as he started heading toward Octavia’s place.

*****

*Meanwhile in Tom’s mind*

“Arrg…” Tom grunted. He was lying on the ground with his face in the dirt. Realizing this, he quickly got up to kneeling.

The sky above was as white as a blank canvas awaiting someone to paint it. Around him, there were several gigantic boulders floating in the air. On each boulder, clusters of grass grew freely. They easily reached a half metre long. Other than that, there was nothing.

“Where am I?” Tom wondered out loud.

“You’re in your head, Tom,” answered a mysterious, yet familiar voice. He quickly sprung up and turned to the source of the voice.

There was an alluring woman standing in his sight. She had long, curly red hair cascading down her neck. Her ice blue eyes gazed at him, like two sparkling sapphires. She had pink glossy lips, as if she had put on the finest lipstick. She wore scale armor over a fur hide. The uncovered parts were pale like snow in the cold winter days. Armed with a sword and a dagger in their sheaths on her waist, and a long wooden bow on her back.

“Who are ye, lass?” Tom asked cautiously, inspecting her weapons carefully.

“As I have said: you’re in your head, Tom,” the woman replied again in a calm manner.

“In me head?!” exclaimed Tom, “How is that even possible?”

“Calm down, Tom.” The woman approached him and pat his shoulder. “You just blinked way too many times, so your energy ran out,” she said smiling assuringly at Tom, who had a lot of questions in his head.

“Who are ye, anyway, lass? Ar’ ye me subconscious?”

“No, I’m Thor! Remember?” Thor said as she amused herself by pinching his cheeks softly.

“Thor?” Tom was dumbfounded. Thor’s voice was manly, sounded nothing like a woman at all when he was awake. “Aren’t ye a lad?”

“Nay, Tom. My original master was a woman in England, so she dubbed me after her own last name: Thorpe,” Thor clarified, backing away to the comfortable distance. “Anyway, you’re a long way from waking up. We’ve just exited the flying carriage a minute ago. That Bavarian you called ‘Jerry’ is carrying us somewhere.” She paused, lost in thought for a second.

“He’s reached a house. White pony with shaggy blue mane opens the door,” she said with a blank expression.

“That mus’ be Vinyl,” Tom said in relief, “Can ye please tell Jerry ta take me to Lyra’s?” he requested politely, “Ask Vinyl fer direction.”

“Will do,” Thor replied with a small beam on her face before spacing out again. “He’s now walking with Vinyl to Lyra’s house,” she came back and reported.

“Thanks.”

“Your welcome.”

Then, a silence between them occurred. The boulders around them floated slowly throughout the area, making themselves look like cloud.

“So… Wat do ye call this place?” Tom broke the peace.

“Richard used to call it ‘The void’. Quite a nice name, huh?”

“Aye, really nice.” Tom looked at her, noticing that she was spacing out again.

“You’re currently on a fluffy lounge chair. Sleeping like a baby,” she reported again, adding a hint of loving in the latter sentence.

“Glad ta know that. Now, wat should I do?”

“Wait,” she replied flatly while conjuring two chairs out of thin air. Sitting down on her chair, she conjured a cushion on another chair. “Have a seat, Tom.” She gestured to the comfy looking chair. “All we can do now is wait until you wake up.” Tom made a bored expression as soon as he heard it, slumping on his hand which was placed against his legs.

“What should we do ta kill ye time?”

“I recall that you postpone checking the power available a while ago.” Thor pondered out loud, “Would you like to have a look?” she asked while leaning closer to Tom.

“Aye, that would be great!” Tom replied with a shout, “On ye double, lassie!”

“Hold your horses, Tom. We’ll be right here for a long time.” She paused, “Now, the first power you can gain: ‘Divine Perception’. See through the obstacles, right to your foes and useful objects. I want ten heads for it. Not too tough for an exceptional swordsman like you, right?” Tom nodded smugly at his title.

“The second one is ‘Devil’s Speed’. Your overall speed and agility will increase immensely. Thirty heads.” Tom smiled gleefully. He was a fast runner. God, he even won a race against horse! Technically, though it was just Vinyl, who was easily exhausted.

“The third: Telekinesis. Propel animate and inanimate object with invisible force. Five heads. Cheap, useful and powerful when used correctly.”

“The last, but not least: ‘Bend Time’. Slow down the time itself for a short duration, could be upgraded later to stop time completely. Fifty heads…” She gasped for breath, “Those are all the powers which are available at the moment. More will come when the time is right.” She stood up and walked over him. “One last thing: I can change myself into any weapon you desire. From shiv to longbow. Name it, and I shall transform.” She looked down at him and beamed, “Consider this a gift for my new handsome master.” Thor smiled and gave him a peck on the cheek.

Tom’s face reddened, steam came rolling out of his ears in embarrassment.

Thor moved her head to the point where only an inch of air stood between their faces, “We have a long night ahead of us, my dear Tom…” she said with a sly grin, making Tom gulp nervously.

The best options Tom could think of were: stop her, or just play along. He couldn’t decide; it all happened so fast.

“Lad, go fer it! How often does thing like this happen? Hardly evar! Tally ho and give ‘er yer whole nine yards!” A voice said out loud. Thor stopped, dumbfounded by the voice.

“Nay, lad. It’s wrong!” shouted another voice. “Ye jus’ met ‘er like… five minutes ago! An’ she’s a bloody sword fer god sake!” Now, Thor was making a weird face as the two voices argued.

“Stop!” Thor exclaimed furiously, silencing the two voices completely. “Thank you!” She said in sarcastic manner before launching herself at Tom, tackling him. On the hard stone ground, Tom was freaking out uncontrollably as Thor grasped his arms. “Hold still!” She commanded, and locked him in a passionate kiss. “Know this: I mean no harm. You must understand that I had been locked alone in that box for eight hundred years! Eight hundred bloody years!”

Her statement caused Tom to think. Eight hundred years of isolation was a great pain for anyone, especially a woman like her. By human’s nature, we are social creatures. If one was isolated for a couple of days, he or she would go bananas in the end.

After thinking carefully, Tom pulled her down into another kiss. After a few seconds, they broke from each other. “I completely, understand lass. Now, remove yer armor. Its weight’s killin’ me.” She complied without any further question.

“Now, bend over...”

Holiday Special: Hearth's Warming Eve Part I

A/N: This is partially a canon chapter.

Holiday Special: Hearts Warming Eve/ Christmas Eve/ Heiligabend Part I

It was December in Ponyville. Sounds of festivities could be heard amongst the residences. Little fillies and colts roamed the street, laughting and playing joyfully; while the adults watched carefully from the distance.

The houses were decorated with different kinds of ornaments and colourful streamers, which brought a smile upon the ponies’ face. Layers of white snow covered the roofs, making the street look like a row of gingerbread houses decorated with icing.

The snow had fallen upon the town over the night, piling up in the streets, over the buildings and trees.

Tom, a British Spitfire ace, walked out of his dwelling along with Lyra, who was wearing long striped scarf and a dapper top hat. They carried a present each, both wrapped in red and green paper, tied with ribbons of opposite hue.

“I hate winter…” Tom muttered. It was cold and lonely before he had been picked up from the street, and indeed, it was terrible.

*****

Glasgow, Scotland, 22 years ago

“Com’ back ‘ere yah bloody lil’ bugger!” shouted the shopkeeper, chasing a raggy looking boy in the snowy street.

“Like I will, yar halvwit!” the boy back, tightening his grasp on a loaf of bread in his hand. *I would’ve been gone a mile away by now! That big mouth gonna get what he did.** he thought ragefully.*

He made a turn at the corner, sliding on the slippery cobble stone pavement.

BAM

He crashed into a man: a Scottish soldier. The bread he had stolen fell to the ground.

The soldier glared at him curiously, puzzled by the boy’s alacrity. He squatted down and picked the loaf, “What’s the hurry, boyo?” he asked calmly, handing the boy’s bread back.

“None o’ yer concern, Mister,” the boy spat irritatingly and started to run again, but the shopkeeper emerged from the corner and grabbed his collar.

“Got ya, yer filthy bugger!” the shop keeper exclaimed victoriously, a smirk creeping onto his face.

“Let me go, ye’ lunatic!” the boy demanded angrily, struggling to break free from the shopkeeper’s grasp.

He exchanged glances with the boy and his captor, “Wat’ goin’ on ‘ere?” the soldier asked.

He lifted the boy a bit off the ground, “This lil’ bugger stole mah shop’s bread!” explained the shopkeeper.

“How much tah bread?” the soldier pointed at the bread curiously.

“Five pence,” the shopkeeper answered dryly.

The soldier searched the pouch above his kilt, picking out five pence and gave them to the shopkeeper, “Now, get lost, lad.”

The shop keeper looked at the coins, counting them. He dropped the boy and walked away in silent.

The boy grumbled annoyingly, pulling his colllar in place, “Thanks, Mister,” he said quietly, and started walking away.

“Boyo! Where yer mom n’ dad?” the soldier asked.

The boy turned back, “Dead. Mom died long ago. Dad got shot in the trench.” He departed after he had finished explaining.

He ran after the boy and grabbed his arm, “Hold yer horses, boyo. Where d’ yah live?” he asked worriedly.

“In ye alley. Next two street,” the boy answered. “Can ah go now?” he asked annoyingly.

“Nay, boyo. Y’ can’t live like that. Bugging people’s stuff! Y’ come wit’ me. Yah will live a new life from now on.” He extended a hand, gesturing the boy to take it.

The boy took his hand and shook it. He smiled joyfully. They took off in the opposite direction from the boy’s alley.

“So, what yer name?” asked the soldier.

“Tom, Thomas. I forgot me lastname,” he answered.

“Then I dub thee Thomas McMorrow.” Tom beamed joyfully.

“And you?” Tom questioned back.

“Angus McMorrow. Can call me Gus.”

*****

Tom arrived at Sweet Apple Acres with the Lyra. He spotted the newly built barn in the residental area of the orchard. The barn was somewhat wide, probably used to store the recently discovered triplane.

*****

Somewhere in Scotland, April, 1929

“Yah sure ye noted down everything, Tom?” Gus asked attentively. He watched the old biplane taxiing slowly along the runway.

“Aye! Watch me!” He accelerated, the tail gradually rose up, indicating that the plane was ready to soar into the sky!

He pulled the flight-stick back. The flaps angled down, bending the wind toward the ground, and lifted the contraption from the Scottish soil. Tom heart skipped a beat, knowing that he was finally off the ground. The world had been slowed down for the moment; Tom would never forget it, ever.

Gus was on the ground, waving to him. Tom waved back happily as he ascended to the blue summer sky. He stayed at the low attitude, not wanting to go any higher up.

**I will go even higher,* he thought wistfully, but perhapse not today With that, he turned his plane around, back to the airfield. The biplane gradually descended down the earth. Tom’s hand was shaky. He gripped the flight-stick tightly, and gently pulled it back, touching the ground with the rear landing gear.*

“Yer did it, kid!” The old soldier came running toward his plane, cheering joyfully to the boy’s success. “Tom, Tom, Tom!” Gus proclaimed.

*****

“Tommy, Tommy!” A familiar voice interrupted his train of thought. It was Gerhard, who was in the long leather coat.

The German ace came up and gave him a salute. Judging by the look on his face, he’d been waiting for him for a while now. “Kommen Sie! let’s get inside. Es ist kalt out here.” Gerhard gestured for him to enter the Apple family’s barn. He complied, and Lyra followed.

Applejack was the only pony in the hall, putting the finishing touch on a Hearts Warming Eve tree, “Welcome, y’all!” she exclaimed. “Supper’s in half an hour!” she stated and went back into the kitchen, probably to help with the food.

As they took their seats, Tom looked over at his companion, and asked, “So, how yah’ doin’ in Octavia an’ Vinyl’s place?” Tom asked.

“Sehr gut. Es turned out that Octavia kann sprech Deutsch!” He shot up in excitement, then quickly reigned himself in, and assumed a sheepish expression, “Und du?”

Tom rolled his eyes from the awkwardness, “Fine,” he replied simply. Changing the subject would be the appropriate action to do, at the moment, “This is meh first Christmas supper! Can yer believe tat?” A surprise look appeared on Gerhard’s face.

Gerhard leaned forward, “Sie serious?!” Tom, who was making himself comfortable on the chair, nodded sadly.

“Why ist das?”

“Let’s begin when I was eight,” he started with a grim face. “It was a cold Christmas Eve ‘n Glasgow…”

About twenty minutes later…

“An’ that’s why I nevar had good ol’ big supper…” Tom trailed off there, losing himself in old and rusty memories. His childhood memory hadn’t been told anywhere, to anyone before. Such an irony that he had just told his secret to the enemy.

Abruptly, a set of knocks on the door. Gerhard sprung up to his feet and rushed toward the entrance. “Komming!” he shouted on the way. The door had been flung open, revealing a herd of ponies.

There were Octavia, Vinyl, Bon Bon, Pipsqueak along with his parents, the rest of the element bearers, and several Wonderbolts were in the group at the door; Rainbow Dash went into over-exciting mode upon seeing her idols. Most of them had their saddlebags on, except the unicorns, who used their levitation.

Gerhard beamed merrily, “Kommn sie! Supper ist almost ready now,” he then made way for the crowd. They all shared greetings and holiday wishes, then spread out around the hall. One could say that Apple family’s barn is fairly huge. The once large mass divided into smaller group.

“Schätz!” shouted Ava, who had just arrived. She hugged him lovingly, “Bin ich zu spät? (Am I late?)” she asked. Gerhard shook his head in reply and gave her a peck on the cheek.

“Kommen Sie,” he said, ushering her inside. He took her coat off and hung it on the hanger next to the door.

“Oi!” Tom called, getting attention from everyone (and everypony) in the room, “Let’s sing the carols!” he suggested, getting ‘Yay carols!’ from Pinkie, they all started

They all sang along pretty well, except Gerhard and his wife. Pinkie came up with a brilliant idea: singing it again in Germane! She cleared her throat and started again. (The German version should starts right about now.) Octavia joined them; her voice was truly beautiful.

“Time für human carols!” Gerhard stated and started singing, and Ava followed suit. This time, Octavia also tried to sing along the foreign lyrics, which almost resulted in a disaster. Tom went ahead and sang in English version; decorated with his Scottish accent.

A moment later, Tom started another song. This time, Gerhard knew the lyrics well.

After they had finished, the ponies audience applauded and shared a hearty laugh for Tom’s accent. Compliments and critics flew around the room.

Applejack emerged from the kitchen, “Dinner’s ready, y’all!” she shouted to inform the whole hall. Chatter erupted from the populace of the hall, mostly about the smell of the food.

As the crowd mad its way to the food, Applejack couldn’t hold back an exclaimation. She wasn’t expecting quite this many guests

The cuisine was different from back home. The turkey was nowhere in sight. It replaced by a large fruit cake; courtesy of Pinkie. Mashed potato, Apple pies, grilled corns, carrot soup and other dishes sat there on the table, waiting to be eaten.

Tom sat down on one of the chairs around the dining table, waiting for the others to do the same.

I love Christmas! Tom thought, smiling happily before he dug down to the mashed potato.

Holiday Special: Hearth's Warming Eve Part II Final

A/N: This is also a partially canon chapter.

Holiday Special: Hearts Warming Eve/ Christmas Eve/ Heiligabend Part II

The supper ended with the fruit cake and apple pies; Apple family’s secret recipe, which Soarin ate about five of it. It was the best pie Gerhard ever eaten in his life.

What’s their secret? He wondered, but decided not to ask right away.

After the meal, drinking commenced. Young ones got apple cider, but adults had eggnog, whiskey, wine, beer, and other alcoholic beverages.

Tom, of course, chose scotch. Octavia, Rarity and Ava went for the vintage wine; high class bunch. Gerhard wasn’t much of a drinker, so he grabbed a mug of beer. The wonderbolts shared a bottle of whiskey. Vinyl took a whole bottle of vodka for herself. The others had Granny Smith’s moonshine reserve, except Applejack, who had applejack.

Gerhard rose up and raised his mug, “Für Deutsches Vatherland!” he toasted with a smug on his face, before drinking the whole mug in one sip.

Seeing this, Tom followed, “God save the queen!”

“Gott töten die Königin... (God kill the queen…)” muttered Ava, raising her wine glass mockingly. “Gott mit uns, (God with us,)” she threw in another toast.

“Oooh!” Pinkie gasped excitingly, “Toast battle!” she exclaimed enthusiastically. “To the party!” she declared and sipped her moonshine.

“Glory to The Wonderbolt!” shouted Rainbow Dash, making the members of Wonderbolt themselves cheer in agony.

The peticular sight remionded Gerhard of something. He spent the moment to himself, ignoring the others to bring up the past.

After a moment of thinking, the memory popped out. It was some time back when he was still in flying school.

*****

He was in the bar near the academy, where most people went to unwind after after classes.

”Mehr Bier! (More beer!)” yelled a man, who was sitting opposite from Gerhard. Clearly, he was drunk, “Schafer, ein weiterer Becher! (Schafer, another mug!)” The bartender complied with the man’s request, filling the mug with beer from the barrel behind him..

“Joachen, gehen Sie zurück in die Baracke. Du bist betrunken (Joachen, go back to the barrack. You're drunk,)” Gerhard warned worriedly.

The said man lifted his hand, gesturing Gerhard to stop, “Betrunken? Es gibt kein solches Wort in meinem Wörterbuch, (Drunk? There is no such word in my dictionary,)” Joachen replied and took another sip from his mug.

On the corner of Joachen’s eye, he spotted a lady; beautiful lady. She was a blonde girl with a pair of beautiful ice blue eyes. Flying school uniform, she probably was a student from other class. Joachen raised his mug, “Um eine schöne Dame dort drüben! (To a beautiful lady over there!)” he shouted shamelessly.

She giggled and lifted her wine glass in reply, “Zu der schöne Herr zu meiner Rechten! (To the handsome gentleman on my right!)” she yelled over the loud chatter of the bar. Gerhard realized that she meant for him when Joachen nudged him on the chest.

“Scheint, dass sie dich mag. Sagen Sie etwas, (Seems that she likes you. Say something,)” said Joachen, “Gehen Sie erhalten sie, Tiger! (Go get her, tiger!)” He passed out by the moment he had finished that sentence.

**Shit…* he swore in his head. Now, the courageous one’s down. What am I going to do now?*

“Erm…” Gerhard muttered coyly. She was looking at him, waiting for his reply, “Um Ihre Schönheit! (To your beauty!)”

She smiled and got up from her table, walking over his table. “Wie heißen Sie, gut aussehend? (What’s your name, handsome?)” she asked with an extreamly adorable face.

“Barkhorn, Gerhard Barkhorn,” he answered shyly. “Und Sie?” he asked back.

“Ava Herz,” she said in an alluring tone. She grabbed a pen from her pocket, and wrote something down on the bar’s napkin hastily, and finished with a kiss on it. “Ich muss jetzt gehen. Sehen Sie sich um, gut aussehend. (I must go now. See you around, handsome.)” With that, she departed and left the bar.

Gerhard took a read at her napkin. It had her room number, class, and where she’d normally hang out. He beamed joyfully, knowing that he just had a girl on his tail.

*****

Back at the dinner table, the toast battle had ended a while ago, with Pinkie Pie as the winner. They had all the fun they should now. It was time for presents.

Everyone (and everypony) gathered in the living room, placing their presents by the Hearts Warming Eve tree. The presents came in many size and shape, some were huge, some were really small.

Applejack, the host, wrote a number on each present, and wrote another set in a paper. She folded each paper and put them into a box, scrambling them by shaking the box.

Taking only a piece of paper, Gerhard picked out number thirteen. His face became pale by getting such a bad number, but he shrugged. What could possibly happen? He himself bought a pair of binoculars, hoping that it would be in good hands.

“Who here git number one?”

“That’s me! Rainbow Dash, the number one!” Rainbow Dash said egotistically. She took the present from Applejack’s hoof and ripped it open immediately. To her surprise, it was Gerhard’s binoculars. “Whose gift is this?” she asked disappointedly.

Gerhard raised his hand, Now, it seems to be in good *hooves*** He snickered quietly.

“Err… Thanks, I guess.” She hovered away without saying another word.

The next one was Ava’s. Spitfire stepped out of the crowd and grabbed it with her mouth, then walked back into the group. Tom exchanged his shortsword with Pinkie’s pink kitchen knife; irony.

Finally, the number thirteen was announced. Gerhard squeezed himself out of the crowd and picked it up. The shape of it was like an instrument case. He gently tore the wrapping out, revealing a violin case. A smiled as wide as mile appeared on his face. None ever knew that he could play it. Except…

Octavia gazed at him, happily. He had told her about it while he was staying overnight at Ponyville’s hospital; a joyful conversation. “May, I?” asked Gerhard. Everyone (and pony) in the room cheered, urging him to play something.

He started the first song which came into his mind: Ein kleine Nacht Musik. It was one of his favourite piece from Mozart, but personally, he liked Turkish March more.

While he was playing, all the eyes watched in awe, some of them even gaped their mouths.

This once again, reminded him of a rusty old memory. It was after his graduation from flying school, after he had dated Ava for a fair amount of time.

*****

His packing was completed. The graduation was fun. After all the time he spent in the flying school. He had found his love, sharing joy and bitterness together. He could never be more happy…

He sat on a compact chair next to the runway with his classmates, chatting about which Wing they would be sent to. One said: No matter how the future will be, do your best for the brighter future.

**It was wise of him.* Gerhard thought.*

“Schätz…” Ava approached, holding gift wrapped in colourful paper and bow. She simply handed it to him without hesitation. He thanked her, then carefully unwrap the present leisurely.

It was a violin.

“Danke, mein schönes Mädchen. (Thank you, my beautiful girl.)” Gerhard hugged her lovingly. Then tenderly kissed her on the soft lips. “Ich habe auch etwas für dich auch… (I also have something for you too…)” He searched his pocket. A second later, he picked out a tiny little box, and opened it.

A silver ring with refined diamonds laid inside, reflecting the light upon Ava’s ice blue eyes.

Gerhard knelt down on one knee, smiling nervously. “Ava, durch alle Zeiten, die wir zusammen verbracht haben, gute und schlechte, können Sie immer gestanden haben durch mich. Ich könnte nie mein Herz versprechen, jede andere. Ich werde dich bis zum Ende lieben. Egal, welche Teile uns, ich werde dich immer lieben. Ich bin die Erde, können Sie die Sonne sind. Willst du meine ewigen Sonnenschein sein?

(Ava, through all the times we spent together, good and bad, you have always stood by me. I could never promise my heart to any other. I will love you to the end. No matter what parts us, I will always love you. I'm the Earth, you're the Sun. Will you be my eternal ray of sunshine?)” Her eyes widened in shock. Frozen like a statue there.

A moment passed, she replied: “Ja, Ja, Ja!” Letting go of every single burden, she threw herself onto Gerhard and gave him the tightest hug in her life. His friends’ reaction was priceless; mouth gaping open. A stray fly flew into one of them, making him cough terribly on the ground.

Gerhard, turning purple, “Ava, loslassen! (Ava, let go!)” he said weakly, using the remaining air in his lungs.

She replied his request with a kiss, blowing some air into Gerhard’s deflated lungs. He coughed badly, but ended up with a smile on his face when Ava finally let go.

I love you, Ava…

*****

The crowd’s agonizing applaud echoed through the room as Gerhard finished the last note. He bowed down modestly.

“Schätz, Ihre Fähigkeiten nicht fallen gelassen ein Bit! (Sweetie, your skill haven't dropped one bit!)” Ava complimented with a pat on his head, “Und die Haare sind immer noch so weich wie Seide! (And your hair are still as soft as silk!)” she giggled playfully and joined the crowd once again.

“Look at the time!” started Rarity, looking closely at her pocket watch, “It’s quite late, now. Shall we call it a night and return home?” she suggested worriedly. Must be about her beauty sleep again…

“Aye, Merray Christmas, lads and lasses.” Tom yawned tiringly, eyes fluttering sleepily

“Auf Widersehen,” said Gehard. He gestured Ava to come with him, “Gehen wir zurück in die Baracke zu gehen. (Let's go back to the barrack.)” she nodded in respond and snuggled onto his arm.

Chapter 10: The Message

Chapter 10: The Message

After dropping Tom at Lyra’s house, Gerhard made his way back to Octavia’s. It had been one of the most eventful nights he ever had. Now, he only wanted a long, uninterrupted sleep. But, suddenly, a thought hit him.

He needed to find his wife.

Princess Luna said that she had arranged a temporary dwelling for them, but she never mentioned the whereabouts of it…

Gerhard sighed in frustration. Why didn’t he ask her? He cursed at his own forgetfulness, which made him more frustrated. Ignoring the thought, he quickened his pace. The distance between Lyra’s and Octavia’s wasn’t so far at all. He walked up to the house and knocked.

There was a silence. Even though it was early in the morning, he doubted that Vinyl was still sleeping. Waiting patiently, he knocked again, adding more pressure on each hit. From hitting, it turned into banging.

“Coming, coming!” Vinyl shouted from behind the door. Finally the DJ opened the door with a coffee in her magical grasp. “Oh, it’s you,” she said annoyingly as she picked the newspaper up with her magic. “Where have you been last night anyway? You and Tommy ran after that huge bird, and were gone for the whole night.”

“Es ist eine long story,” explained Gerhard, “Kann I come inside? Es ist Kalt out here,” he said in a shivering tone.

“Sure, make yourself at home.” She backed away for him to enter, and closed the door after he had moved inside.

The decoration inside wasn’t so fancy. It consisted of simple furnitures and wares, ll of which were placed nicely throughout the room. The one and only peculiar object in the room was a double record player, sided with a pair of gigantic speakers. On first thought, Gerhard mistook it for a podium, like the one from Hitler’s speech.

“Was ist das?” Gerhard pointed at the ‘podium’.

“Oh it’s my nothing special. Just some of my DJ equipment. Awesome huh?”

“Ja, ja. I have no idea what that ist, but danke für die explanation anyway,” he thanked and sat down on the couch. “Verdammt, last Nacht was too eventful.”

“What happened, dude? You look really worn out,” Vinyl asked as she dropped down on the couch beside him.

“As I said, lange story. Vould you prefer die lange Version or die short Version?”

“Long version, please. I don’t have work until tonight,” answered Vinyl, sipping her coffee calmly.

“Jawohl. Kann I have some Kaffee, bitte? Haven’t sleep at all…” he said sleepily, slapping his face gently to maintain consciousness.

“There’re some left in the pot, dude. Help yourself.” She unrolled the newspaper and began reading. “And dude, you still have your costume on.”

Gerhard looked at his arm. There was still a Nazi party armband on it. He quickly removed the armband and stuffed it in his pocket. “Und where ist der pot?” he asked while trying to wipe the ‘toothbrush’ mustache.

“Kitchen. That door.” She pointed at the said door, which wasn’t so much of a door at all. It was technically a square hole in the wall.

Gerhard got up and made his way for the coffee in a very sleepy manner. He bumped into the wall beside the door. Stumbling backward, he regained his composure and proceed to the kitchen. Stars began to obscure his vision. He had to hurry before he fell asleep right there.

The kitchen was furnished with simple appliances. Fridge, stove, oven counters, and cabinets were installed nicely. On the counter, there was a coffee machine. Half of its pot was filled with black liquid, which was unmistakably coffee.

Gerhard opened each cabinet hastily in a desperate attempt to find a cup. Finally, he found one. He beamed happily as soon as he had his hand on the cup. Without further ado, he grabbed the pot and poured the coffee into his cup.

Gerhard wasn’t a fan of bitterness, so he opened a cabinet which he remembered that there was a jar of sugar in it. He opened it and sniffed the content, making sure that it really was sugar; not long ago back home, he mistook salt with sugar. It was a painful experience. He never wanted it to happen again.

After he was sure, he put five pinches of sugar in the coffee. His energy was running low from all those walking and fighting with vampires. He usually added cream in his coffee, but he found none inside any cabinet. Only sugar will suffice for now… he thought as he mixed the sugar with coffee.

Lifting the cup up, he poured the extra sweet coffee into his mouth. Just tasting it made him feel better already! He put the cup down and returned to the living room. Vinyl was still there, reading newspaper and sipping her coffee.

“Hey! How was the coffee?” asked Vinyl, perking from her newspaper. “And you still have your spunky mustache on…” she added.

“Was zum Teufel?! I thought I wiped es already.” He rubbed the spot under his nose repeatedly. “Und die Kaffee ist heavenly,” Gerhard said with a smile. “Now, die story. Last Nacht, I ran after…”

*****

Meanwhile at Lyra’s house

Tom was sleeping on the same couch as yesterday. The difference was no snoring could be heard, which made Lyra and Bon Bon very happy.

Opening his eyes slowly, Tom finally woke up. He rose up to sitting, rubbed the drowsiness from his eyes, and stood up to stretch. The sounds of pops and cracks could be heard.

That was one weird dream… Tom thought

Nay, it all happened inside your head, Tom. Thor said happily.

Tom did a double take and stumbled back onto the couch. So you are really a lass, Thor?

Last I checked, yes, she answered with glee. And thanks for that. That’s quite a stamina you got there. If she had an eye, she would have given Tom a seductive wink.

“What time’s it?” He pulled out his pocket watch, which told 9 o'clock in the morning. “Oh it’s been late in ye morning already.”

“It is?”

“Aye,” he replied shortly. “What productive stuff shall I do today?”

“Cutting some heads? Thor suggested gingerly.

“Nay, ‘ey ponies won’t be happy ‘bout it.”

“What about visiting that Teutonic soldier you keep calling ‘Jerry’?”

“Well, that was a brilliant idea! Need ta show som’ appreciation fer carryin’ lil’ ol’ me last night,” he said confidently.

“Tommy, who are you talking to?” asked Lyra, who was descending the stairs.

“Lyra! Meet me new mate, Thorpe!” Tom said excitingly as Lyra approach him.

“Where?” said Lyra, searching the room for Thor.

“Right here, Miss Lyra,” Thor said, emitting the usual green glow.

Lyra gasped in surprise. “You are a talking sword, Thor?” she asked enthusiastically and moved closer to the sword.

“Well, yes.” Thor replied.

“I’ve never seen anything like you before!” Lyra exclaimed in excitement, extending the hoof to touch Thor.

“Neither have I.”

“Ahem!” Tom cleared his throat loudly to get their attention. “Well, I need ta visit Jerry today. But first thing first: I need breakfast. D’ ye happen tah hav’ any left, Lyra?” he stated.

“Yep! Jerry dropped you early in the morning, so I prepared an extra for you!” She went into the kitchen and levitated a plate of omelette au fromage back with her. “Here you go! Bon appetite!”

“Much appreciated…” Tom said before he started digging into the omelette.

“So…” started Lyra, “About helping with my research.”

“Right,” Tom said after he had swallowed the omelette. “How can I help yar, lassie?” He dug another chunk of egg into his mouth.

“It’s human research!” Lyra exclaimed cheerfully, “All you need to do is answer my question, and correct the data about humans for me.”

“A‘right, I will answer yer question when I return from visitin’ Jerry.” Tom stood up, “An’ thanks fer ye omelette. It’s bloody brilliant!” Lyra beamed joyfully at the compliment. “Anyway, I’ll wash this before I go.“ He disappeared into the kitchen. The sound of water flowing into the sink was heard, followed by a clink sound of plates contacting with each other. Returning, Tom picked up Thor and bid Lyra goodbye before leaving.

“Bye!” Lyra shouted from behind them, waving her hoof. Tom return the wave and made his way up the road, to Octavia’s house.

*****

“Und das ist pretty much es.” Gerhard finished with a sigh. His stomach was rumbling furiously for a while now. He needed to eat as soon as possible.

KNOCK KNOCK

Vinyl turned to the noise, stood up, and walked over to it. Outside, there was a grey pegasus mare with blonde mane. Her eyes seemed to have developed their own mind, darting around the area. Her cutie mark was several bubbles. What’s her talent? Gerhard wondered. Asking pony about the tattoo on their rear wasn’t a really good idea, so he kept his mouth shut and acted normally. She was obviously a mailmare, judging from her blue cap and the saddlebags filled with letters. She was strangely familiar, though. Where had he seen her before?

“I brought you letters!” exclaimed the mailmare, grabbing a couple of letters from the bag and giving them to Vinyl. “Can you give this note to Mister Barkhorn, Vinyl?” She grabbed another piece of paper out of her bag and handed it to Vinyl.

“Sure, Ditzy!”

“Thank you so much!” She rummaged into her second bag. “Here, have some muffin!” She handed Vinyl a paper bag.

“Awesome! Thanks!”

“You’re welcome.” She smiled and took off, soaring slowly through the air. She turned back and waved, still smiling.

BAM!

Ditzy crashed into the building on the corner, tumbling down to the earth. She quickly got up and carried on like nothing happened, still smiling.

Levitating the letters with her, Vinyl came back inside and closed the door behind her. She inspected each letter, picked two out, and left the rest on the table. One of the letter was for her, but the other one had Gerhard’s name on it, so she handed it to the recipient.

“Danke,” Gerhard thanked and tear open the envelope.

“Ihr Will, (Your welcome)” Vinyl replied as she opened her letter.

Gerhard perked up from his letter, “Du never told mir dass you sprechen Deutsch.”

“Ich kann etwas Deutsch sprechen, (I can speak little German)” She stated as she read the letter.

Gerhard was about to reply, but he had to read the letter first.

Dear Jerry,

Princess Luna has summoned you to my library and to give an elaborate explanation about your weapon, and to report about your flying contraption. She told me that a group of royal researchers will arrive at the train station at noon. Inform them about the mechanism as much as possible. Princess Celestia wishes to know if it could be repaired.

Come as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Twilight Sparkle.

PS: Princess Luna had told me that she forgot to tell you the whereabouts of the temporary dwelling. It’s in the plain which is west of the train station, shouldn’t be too hard to spot.

Gerhard sprung up in surprise. He completely forgot about that. He must hurry now. “Vinyl, I vill be at Twilight’s library. May or may nicht return in der Abend, guten Tag!” He darted for the door. But suddenly, his stomach rumbled again. He rubbed his belly in pain.

Seeing this, Vinyl threw the muffin bag at Gerhard. He caught it perfectly and took a quick peek at the contents. A smile appeared on his face as soon as he realize that it was a whole bag of muffins. He nodded appreciatively, muttering thanks.

Wasting no more time, he gripped the bag tightly and departed, waving to Vinyl in the process.

*****

Tom was just outside Octavia’s house, approaching the door slowly. He raised his hand, planning to knock a few times—

BAM!

—but the door swung open and hit him square in the face, pushed him to the side. The impact broke his nose. Blood cascading from his nose, he gripped them and groaned in pain. He bit his teeth and snapped the nose back in position. A burst of pain ran up his spine. He held the scream in, tear was welling up in his eyes. He never felt such pain since he broke his leg a couple of years ago.

Tom clenched his fist in the air, “God confound ye bugger who opened this door!” he cursed furiously.

Vinyl appeared from behind the door, “That was Jerry, dude. He said something about Twilight’s library and rushed off.”

“Many thanks, Vinyl.” Tom said flatly, trying to hide his pain.

“Do you need help with that nose?” asked Vinyl, but Thor began to emit the green glow again.

“That won’t be necessary, lass. I can handle this.” she said as her green iridescent luminance grew brighter.

After the glow had weakened, the blood on Tom’s nose flowed back in the nose, leaving no trace behind. The pain that had been on his face was gone like nothing had happened.

“It’s a miracle! Thanks, Thor!” Tom exclaimed joyfully as he rub his nose.

“Anything for you, my lovely master!”

“Thanks, I guess?”

“No problem at all!”

“That’s ye spirit, lassie. Now, let’s move tah that library.” Tom turned to the opposite direction where the library stood tall in the distance, and march down the road toward the library.

*****

Gerhard closed the door of the library. He had never been inside before. The whole place was carved from wood, including the bookshelves, which were filled with thousand of books. In the center of the tree, there was a round wooden table with a horsehead bust on it. Three desks were positioned on three spots on a fighter aircraft’s propellor pattern. There was a door across from the entrance, probably leading to a private study, judging from the sign hanging on it

“Welcome!” exclaimed Twilight, who was descending from the stairs to the second floor. “I’m expecting you. Have you had anything for breakfast? I have some leftovers, if you want.”

He shook his head in reply and held the bag of muffin for her to see. “Nein, I have diese Muffins.”

“Alrighty then. Let me go get some paper to write about your weapon.” She disappeared into the private study, then came back with couple of scrolls, a quill, and inkwell.

“I muss check on meine Frau first. Sie ist ein mechanic, who repair Christl before.”

“Who’s Christl?” Twilight asked innocently.

“Sie ist meine Flugzeug.” Gerhard answered, then realized that he was speaking his mother language, “Entschuldigung, sie ist my flying contraption,” he corrected himself with a sheepish smile across his face.

“Oh!” Twilight dropped the scrolls, “That’s a more important matter! The study of your weapon can wait. We must go now! it’s already 11 o’ clock. Those royal researchers will be here soon.”

Gerhard took a look at his wrist watch. It was 11 o'clock, just as Twilight said. “Dann wir must hurry.” With that Twilight, zipped into her private study again. She came back with a saddlebag full of scrolls and quills. “Mach schnell! Wir haben no need für das, leave it here!” Gerhard lifted the saddle back off her and picked her up.

“Whoa!” Twilight exclaimed in surprise as he started to run. “Put me down! I can teleport us there!”

“Entschuldigung, again…” He placed her on the ground gently, and pat her on the head.

“Please don’t do that.” She warded Gerhard’s hand off. “Spikeee!” Twilight called out.

A few second later, a purple lizard emerged from the top of the stairs. “What is it, Twilight?” it said with hint of boredom in its voice.

At first, Gerhard was shocked. Even a lizard could talk on this planet, what’s next? A cow?

“Spike, can you watch the library while I’m gone?” she asked with a smile.

“But where’re you going?” he asked curiously. As if Gerhard was invisible all along, Spike finally realized that he was standing there. “Are you one of those humans Twilight talked about lately?”

“I believe so,” Gerhard answered without hesitation, “Are you ein Komodowaran? (Komodo dragon)” he asked back.

“I don’t know what that is, but nope. I’m a dragon!” He pounded his chest proudly. “Spike at your service.” Magically, he pulled out a card which had a poorly drawn crayon portrait of himself, sided with info about himself. Gerhard squinted his eyes, trying to read the chicken scratches that Spike called writing.

“Leutnant Gerhard Barkhorn, JG-52, Luftwaffe,” he introduced himself, offering a handshake.

Spike accepted the offer and shook his hand, “Pleasure to finally meet you in person, Leut… Leut…” Spike sighed in frustration. “How do you pronounce it again?”

“Leut. Nant.”

“Leut-nant. Got it!” the dragon exclaimed merrily while shaking the ace’s hand repeatedly.

“Ahem!” Twilight coughed, getting their attention, “Now now, Spike. Can you watch the library while I’m gone?”

“You still haven’t told me where you’re going, Twilight,” said Spike, crossing his arms unsatisfied.

“Jerry and I are going to oversee the study of his ‘aircraft’. Am I pronouncing it right?” Gerhard nodded. “And to give his wife a visit.” He nodded once again.

“Can I tag along?” asked Spike.

“Nope, Spike. I need someone to watch the library.” Twilight replied dryly.

“Pleaseee.” Spike used the ‘puppy’s eyes’ tactic.

“Nope, Spike. Those eyes won’t change my mind.”

Spike dropped down on his knees, grasping onto Gerhard’s leg. He wouldn’t mind if the drake wanted to tag along, but Twilight needed someone to watch these precious books.

As if on cue, the door was kicked open, revealing Tom at the entrance. He walked in with a large smile on his face.

He’s up to something, thought Gerhard.

“Good morning, gentlemen!” Tom greeted cheerfully. “What’s going on here? Care to tell me, Gerhard?”

Tom’s behavior started to ring Gerhard’s suspicion. Normally, he wouldn’t hesitate to deny at all. Was something wrong with him? Or was it simply him being paranoid? “Wir need zu oversee das study of meiner Messerschmitt.” said Gerhard. “Wollen Sie mitkommen?”

“Maybe not this time, my fellow ace! I need a good ol’ break from time to time too.” Tom smiled sheepishly and put his tongue out.

Spike watched as the scene unfolded. His window of opportunity was here! He must grab it before it’s lost! “Please, mister. I wanted to tag along, but Twilight needed somepony to watch over the library! Can you please help me?” Spike switched from Gerhard’s leg to Tom’s. Again, using the ’puppy’s eyes’ tactic.

Tom thought for a moment before answering, “I suppose so, young dragon. I’m quite idle at the moment.”

“Can I come along now, Twilight?”

“Are you sure, Tommy? I don’t know how long will we be away,” said Twilight.

“It’s not a problem at all! Like I said: I have nothing productive to do anytime soon.”

“Okay, Spike. You can come—”

“Yeah!” Spike cheered victoriously, interrupting Twilight.

“—but I need to instruct Tommy on dealing with book returning and borrowing,” she finished with a facehoof.

Spike sighed in annoyance. “Just be quick, Twilight. I want to see the flying contraption!” he demanded

“Fine Fine,” Twilight murmured in frustration. “If someone returns a book…”

After twenty minutes of extremely detailed explanation later...

“And that’s pretty much what you’ll need to do!” she finished with a long breath. All that lecturing must have made her really thirsty, since she hurried into the private study. There must have been a fridge in there because she returned with a jug of water and a glass.

“Fräulein, es ist eleven thirty already.” Twilight choked on her water, spraying it onto Spike.

“I can only teleport two at a time,” she stated, “Jerry, you go first.” Her horn lit up, engulfing the whole room in the violet glow. Gerhard remembered the ritual of teleportation. The sensation of disappearing from point A to point B was hard to get used to.

Gerhard braced himself, keeping his arm aligned with his torso. A bright light flashed, then the pain followed. This time, it wasn’t as bad as the first time.

In a blink of an eye, he found himself standing on the platform of the train station, the temporary dwelling could be seen far in the grassy plain. With another flash, Twilight departed back to the library, and returned along with Spike.

Gerhard took a peek at his wristwatch, indicating that it was almost half an hour until the researchers’ arrival. In the meantime, he could pick up his wife. She was essential in the reparation after all.

“Wir are early,” said Gerhard, “I vill go pick up meine Frau. You two wait hier.” With that, he left.

“May I accompany you?” Twilight asked from behind, trotting up to him.

“Ja,” he replied unhesitatingly, “Meine Frau would be happy zu meet you.” His stomach rumbled once more. He blushed. He completely forgot about eating. The food was in his hand: a bag of muffins. Why hadn’t he grabbed a muffin after all the time he held onto the bag? He had no idea.

Upon opening the paper bag, there were several muffins plus a piece of paper, which must be some kind of note. He picked it up along with a muffin, reading it as he took a bite of the baked goods.

Those vampires weren’t suppose to be there. If they were here, there’ll be more of them. Don’t let any of them bite you when you’re off guard, Gerhard Barkhorn.

—The Doctor

Tea Time With Thor #1

Tea Time With Thor #1

In the sunny countryside circle, surrounded by dense fog, a charming red-headed lady sat with her leg crossed, sipping a cup of tea. Her name was Maria Thorpe; most people called her ‘Thor’ for some reason. She was a magical talking sword.

Normally, she would wear scales armor with her weapons ready, but today was a special day, so she picked a plain dress instead. All of her gears were hung on their respective showcases, except her dagger, which was still in its sheath tied onto her leather belt.

Next to her was a medium-dized dining table. A silver tray was placed in the range for her to grab the contents easily. On the tray were a couple of empty tea cups and a full kettle of hot tea. Also by the tray, were a couple plates which contained many kinds of baked good.

Thor perked up with a smile on her face, putting down her tea cup. “Greeting, readers!” she exclaimed and waved to you. “Yes, I do know that you are reading this novel. I think that should answer your curiousity.” she said and flicked her hand, another chair apparated out of thin air, and dropped down on the other side of the table. “Anyway, have a seat. We have something to discuss.”

You sit down on the provided chair with many questions in your head. Why did she have to talk with you? You have no idea at the moment, but soon all will be answered.

“Just a moment, please. Let me get the author of this novel.” Thor said before rising up and walking right into the surrounding fog, then returned with a young boy, barely out of his teens age. “Meet… umm… What’s your name again?”

“Thanawat Kittimethee, but that is my real name. You can call me BCCgb, BCC or something like those two. Fancy to meet you.” He offered his hand for you to shake it. “I was just reading for my final in the week after next week, and the Oridinary National Educational Test this weekend.” He sat down and poured the tea into two cups. “I shouldn’t have much time online. Don’t get me wrong, I can still write in the good old way: pen and papers. More chapters shall come soon, you have my word.” He took a sip from his cup, and handed you another.

“Aww, I wanted to have more heads. Tom isn’t cutting any lately,” Thor pouted, shoving a cupcake from the tray into her mouth.

“You’ll get more heads, Thor. Just wait for a couple more chapters, and you’ll surely get more than five hundreds heads in a row.”

The statement intrigued her. She sprung up from her seat, beaming happily. “Really!?”

“Yeah.”

"Huzzah!” she exclaimed with joy walzing around the place energetically. Then suddenly, BCC’s digital watch beeped repeatedly.

"Whoops, I think it’s time for me to say good bye. See you soon!” With that, he disappeared behind the thick fog, leaving only faint silhouettes behind as he travel through the vapor.

"Farewell, BCC!” Thor shouted behind him while waving a hankerchief. Where did she even get that?

You could only sit there, thinking about the information given by the young boy. If he had to take two big tests in such close interval, you could only wish him luck while you have fun and high quality gaming sessions.

“Anyway, have I mentioned that I got some more power for Tom?” You shook your head in denial. “All right then, here’re what I got: Shadow March. Stay invisible for a short duration. Perfect for stealthier approach. .

And the second one: Domination. Control animal, but since all the dominant species here are animals, I don’t think the second improvement is needed.” Thor paused for another sip of her tea; it was nearly empty when she put it on the table. “The last one: Nine lives. Cheat death by making a deal with the devil. He usually demands some souls, nothing to worry about. Tom’s got the Lord on his side, he will never do any harm to Tom.”

She stood up as she finish, stretching for a bit. What’s her antic this time? “I think it’s time for you to go back doing your business. Farewell and expect a brand new chapter soon, reader!”

The last thing you saw was her, snapping her fingers and a bright flash. With a poof you were back in front of your computer. And then, a message popped up:

All of those experience you’ve encountered was real.

Sincerely,

Maria Thorpe

Chapter 11: Reparation

Chapter 11: Restoration

Gerhard took another read at the note. Of course, he understood the content very well, but who was this Doctor?

Suddenly, the moment with the strange doctor and his nurse played in his head. The mailmare earlier at Octavia’s house matched the nurse in every aspect, from coat colour to those unkempt eyes. Was it coincidence or they were watching him?

Shrugging the thought off, he focused on walking to the camp, followed closely by Twilight. He grabbed another muffin and took a bite. He recalled that these muffins were the courtesy of that mailmare. Each bite filled his mouth with smooth texture of the baked good, sweetness came with each bite. Disregarding his suspicion, that mare’s baking skill was outstanding.

He continued to eat the remaining muffins. When he finished the last one, the camp was only a couple dozen of metres away. He took a look at the watch; it was almost noon. He better hurry up.

The camp was surrounded by ten small green tents, just large enough to shelter an adult, one for each member of the paratrooper squad. In the middle was an extinguished fire pit, ember still illuminating its last light deep within the burnt firewood, faint smoke floating up into the sky.

Franz, the young soldier, was the first to notice Gerhard approaching. He called out for the rest of the squad, every single troop rushed to him, forming a row. All of them had their rifle and sub-machine gun ready at their side.

“Achtung!” shouted Ludwig, the squad leader, tapping his feet together and standing to attention. The rest of the paratroops followed one by one, looked straight forward.

Gerhard took a step forward and copied the same action. As if on queue, they saluted him in unison. Gerhard returned the salute with a small smile, “Rührt euch! (At ease!)” he ordered stoically, which they complied without any question, easing their stances. “Wunderbare Arbeit, Oberfeldwebel. (Wonderful job, Master Sergeant.)”

“Es ist Elementar, Herr Leutnant, (It’s elementary, Lieutenant)” Ludwig said proudly, smiling. “Wie auch immer, was bringen Sie zu unserer bescheidenen Behausung, Herr Leutnant? (Anyway, what bring you to our humble abode, Lieutenant?)” he asked, lifting his scoped Kar98k and slinging it on his shoulder.

“Ava,” he called out for his wife, who was standing at the end of the row. She first emerged from the row, looking for the source of the call. She beamed at Gerhard, stepped out, and approach him.

Ava gave him a good morning kiss. “Was ist es, Schätzchen? (What is it, sweetie?)” she asked innocently.

“Ava, Staub Ihrem Mechaniker Geschick. Christl braucht du, (Ava, dust your mechanic skill. Christl needs you” Gerhard answered as he offered his hand, gesturing for her to follow him.

She took his hand, giggling. “Sie brauchen mich immer, meine Liebe, (She always needs me, my love)” she joked light heartedly. Gerhard chuckled in reply and looked at his watch. It was five minutes to noon. He shouldn’t make a bad first impression for those researchers.

Turning to Twilight, who was following him quietly, he tapped several time at his wristwatch, informing her about the time. The mare of which nodded in recognition. “Should I teleport us to the train station?” she asked, pointing her hoof at Ava.

“I don’t think that es ist necessary,” replied Gerhard. He turned back to Ava, who was observing the landscape, “Ava, wir müssen uns beeilen. Wollen Sie mir, Sie wie damals zu tragen? (Ava, we must hurry. Want me to carry you like that time?)”

Ava nodded enthusiastically, waiting for him to be ready, and jumped onto Gerhard’s back. He caught her legs perfectly in his tight grip, jumped to put her on a more stable position, and bent his knees for the extra weight. Ava’s arms found their way around his neck, resting her head on his back.

“Ihr Rücken ist so warm wie üblich, mein Gerd, (Your back is as warm as usual, my Gerd)” she complimented as she enjoyed the warmth of his back with closed eyes. Her soft blonde hair swept past his cheek. The scent of shampoo emitted from her hair. He could say that he enjoyed every single moment with her.

“Genau wie damals, oder? (Just like that time, huh?)”

“Ja,” she replied and planted a kiss on Gerhard’s cheek, which resulted in him blushing.

Spectating the love birds, Twilight couldn’t help but giggling at the romanticness of the scene. It was just like seeing one of the scenes from her novel played in front of her. Disturbing now would only ruin the mood, so she stayed quiet and enjoyed as more romantic actions unfold.

*****

Tom was all alone in the library, excluding his sword companion, who never moved anywhere. The whole was place set in silence. There was no need to speak. Tom and Thor had their telepathic link, so they didn’t need to waste their energy on unnecessary action.

You simply acted weird today, said Thor. I’ve seen your memory. Volunteering to watch the archive wasn’t really a thing you would do. What happened?

It’s nothin’, Thor. I jus’ think bein’ nice fer a day wouldn’t hurt, he replied with a tiny smile, switching to more comfortable position.

Had that door slam broke you or something? Thor asked in concernful demeanor.

Umm… Tom murmured curiously. Was it genuine gratefulness from being carried by Gerhard, or did that slam had really damaged his brain? Better get it checked before something happens. Can ye possibly check me brain?

That’s possible, but quite… difficult, said Thor, brightening her glow, charging up her supernatural power in her possession.

In the following minutes, silence engulfed the whole library, except from the creepy noise Thor was creating while she scanned through his head. Tom felt her magic sweeping through his mind. It was one real strange sensation: tickling, yet, relaxing. The feeling sent a chill down his spines, caused him to wince.

“I’m finished,” Thor stated, lowering her green glow, “It seemed that you had minor brain damage. Nothing to worry about; I’ve healed you in the process,” she said reassuringly. “There’s one little side effect from healing your brain though,” she added with a serious tone.

Tom’s calm and merriful demeanor faded away, replaced by a really pale expression on his face. “Please don’ be a bad one, please don’ be a bad one!” he chanted repeatedly, closing his eyes and keep his fingers crossed.

“Oh, it’s not actually that bad, my dear Tom. It’s just that you cannot drink any alcoholic drink for a week. A hangover will *possibly** blow your head clean off.*”

“Wot!?” he exclaimed, stood up and held Thor in his hand, “I can’t live without Scotch! You can take ye Scotch away from yer Scotsman, but ya can’t take ye Scotsman away from his Scotch!”

“Wow, that’s a new catchphrase.”

“Don’ yar dare change ye subject!” he shouted, slamming the table with his fists. “How can I last a week wit no Scotch!?”

Thor blew her imaginary mouth, which annoyed the British ace a little. “Piece o’ cake. You just need to practice fencing, perhaps cutting some more heads to get more of my powers.” she said calmly.

“An’ where in the bloody world can I find more head ta cut?” Tom countered, crossing his arms.

“I sense something in the forest south-east of here. It’s dangerous out there. Here, take this.” Thor’s power flowed into his head. Slowly, he felt something looming in the dark far away. It was probably the forest she was talking about. “I just shared my power to detect murderous aura in the vicinity of fifteen English miles. Use it to get heads. Have fun slaughtering enemies!”

“Many thanks. Now, up an ‘bout, chums!” Tom sprung up from the chair he was sitting on the whole time since everyone left. “Morph t’ dagger, Thor. We’ll lay low ‘til we reach the border of the forest.” She obliged.

The transformation was like smithing a brand new weapon. First, Thor heated herself up to the melting point, then the unnecessary metal evaporated into the air, leaving only the essential steel in the shape of dagger. The finished dagger was extremely hot; the whole blade was blood red from the heat.

“Wait for a moment, so that the blade is cold, Tom. I don’t want you to get a burn from me…” she warned with a caring tone.

“I know lass, I know.” Tom gave her a gentle smiled and sat down, waiting patiently as the blade’s heat started to emanate.

*****

Gerhard arrived at the train station with Ava on his back. Twilight trotted closely after them. Spike was waiting for them. He waved as soon as he spotted the group coming, gesturing for them to come to him. Gerhard complied without any question.

On the station, a sign with silhouette of a locomotive hung from the wall, indicating that it really was the train station. The ponies around stood patiently for the train to arrive. The station was basically a ticket booth with a small platform to stand on. It had a single rail, one end toward the beautiful castle on the cliff. One could say that the city was shining from the distance. Aside from the stunning castle, there was a train coming from the said direction.

The train looked quite… cute? Its size wasn’t as big as an ordinary locomotive. The colour of each car varied from bright pink to light brown, which could be spotted from a kilometre away. Some hearts were painted on the train, also the window on the locomotive was a heart.

Someone must really like hearts, thought Gerhard, gently dropping Ava on the ground. Once she touched the ground, she stretched lazily.

“Nun, das war eine kurze Fahrt, (Well, that was a quick ride)” Ava said after she was done with stretching. “Gerd, meine Liebe, warum sind wir hier? Sollten wir nicht an der Absturzstelle sein? (Gerd, my love, why are we here? Shouldn't we be at the crash site?)” she asked.

“Wir werden, aber das Pony Forscher werden Sie mit der Reparatur zu helfen, (We will, but the pony researchers will help you with the preparation)” Gerhard explained, looking at the approaching train. It shouldn’t be longer than a minute for the train to arrive now.

“Excuse me, Jerry,” said Twilight. Ava gave her stink eyes, which troubled Twilight greatly. What had she done wrong? “Erm… Why are your wife glaring at me?” she asked confusedly.

“Jerry ist ein nickname which die enemy gave uns,” he pointed out, “Es ist counted as eine harsh word, aber I don’t mind as much as Ava does.”

“Oh… Entschuldigung, (Sorry)” Twilight apologized with a sad face, avoiding eye contact with Ava.

“Es ist in Ordnung, hast du nicht. (It’s fine, you didn’t know.)” Ava pat her head with a heart warming smile.

A few seconds later, the train approached the station and stopped dead in its tracks once the cars and the station were aligned.

A crowd of ponies started to flood the tiny station with their massive numbers, leaving little to no space for them to stand. Most of the ponies in the train departed from the station immediately. They must hadn’t got the wind of humans in Ponyville yet, but they did now. Most of them gasped before running for their lives upon spotting Gerhard and Ava. The German couple simply shrugged; they got used to it after a couple of visits at the local bars in the occupied France.

Finally, the crowd dispersed, leaving them alone on the platform. But the moment of tranquility didn’t last long.

The door of the last car swung open. Then, a group of ponies exited the carriage, followed by two snow white earth stallions in golden plate armor. All of them, excluding their guards, had their saddle bags on. But only one caught Gerhard’s attention.

The said pony was a cream-coated stallion with hint of light brown fur on his muzzle. A snow white lab coat adorned his body, distinguishing him from his fellow. From this look, he must be the leader of the researchers.

Upon spotting the group, the pony approached them without further ado, followed by his team and the two guards.

“Gerhard Barkhorn, I presume?” Gerhard nodded in response. The cream pony offered his hoof for him to shake.

He bent down to match the pony’s height and shook his hoof. “Ja, und you?” he asked back.

“Oh where are my manners. Forgive me, I’m Calpain: the head of The Royal Bureau of Scientific Research, Canterlot branch,” said Calpain, releasing Gerhard’s hand.

“Ava Barkhorn,” Ava broke in, bending down to shake Calpains hoof too.

“Nice to meet you too, Frau Barkhorn,” said Calpain, “Und ja, ich kann Deutschee sprechen,” he added with exceptional German accent, which both surprise and enlightened the German couple greatly.

“Wunderbar!” exclaimed Gerhard. “Nun, werden Sie unsere Übersetzer, Herr Calpain sein? (Now, will you be our translator, Mr. Calpain?)” He tried to contain his happiness and asked, “Ava Übersetzer, wenn es möglich ist. Ich kann nicht jedes Mal dabei sein, sie spricht, (Ava’s translator, is it’s possible. I can't be there every time she speaks,” he added, kneeling down and place his hand on the stallion’s shoulder.

“Natürlich,” replied Calpain, a slight beam on his face. Happy with the answer, Gerhard returned to his tall stature, brushing his knees from any dirt. “Let’s get down to business. First, you show us where your flying machine had crashed, then fill us in with everything you know about the machine. Their Highnesses wish to see it soar in the sky as soon as possible.”

“Ich bin der Ingenieur von Christl, (I’m the engineer of Christl”) Ava stated, letting go of her husband’s arm. The mentioning of the mysterious name triggered Calpain’s curiosity instantly, which made him perk his brow. Seeing this, Ava explained:

“Mein Gerd wollte sie nach mir benennen, aber es verwirrt unsere Kameraden manchmal, so dass wir beschlossen, es den Namen meiner Schwester ändern. (My Gerd wanted to name her after me, but it confused our comrades sometimes, so we agreed to change it to my sister's name.)”

“Ich verstehe… (I see...)”

“Ahem.” Twilight coughed, getting everyone’s (and everypony’s) attention. “We must hurry. It’s quite a long walk from here,” she stated boringly.

“And hurry, we shall,” Calpain said with determination in his eyes. “Den Weg, Herr Barkhorn. (Lead the way, Mr.Barkhorn.)” Gerhard nodded in response and made his way off the station, in fast pacing.

*****

“All done. Let’s roll!” Thor proclaimed as Tom put her into the sheath she conjured a minute ago.

Checking his equipment, he started counting each item one by one. First was Thor, which he had just put into the her sheath earlier. Next was his trusty Webley and its .455 ammunition, and lastly: the map he had bought from the local store yesterday.

Regarding that everything was accounted for, he exited the library, flipping the ‘closed’ sign on the door on his way. He unrolled the map. Even if he could feel the aura from the forest, he needed to navigate his way through the town, which wasn’t easy for a stranger like him.

Locating the library was quite easy since it was the only gigantic tree in the vicinity of the town. Then, he persisted on to find his bearing. The sun was directly above his head, thus, making the look-at-the-sun method unavailable.

Miracally, a mare with compass cutie mark walked by. Tom saw the opportunity and grasped onto it instantly. “Miss! Miss!” he shouted after the mare. The mare of which turned back, quirking her brow curiously. “Can y’ tell me which way’s the north?” he asked with a convincing smile.

“Hmm…” she muttered, spitting a small portion of her saliva on her hoof and raised it up high. In a jiffy, she lowered her hoof. “That way.” She gestured toward the direction of a colossal city in the cloud.

“Thank y’ kindly, lassie.”

“Don’t sweat it, Mr. human.” The mare departed, going on with her business.

Tom waved as she walked away, “Hav’ a jolly good day!” She looked back and gave him a warm smile before disappearing around the corner.

“I could have told you which direction before you asked that mare.” Thor peeked out from of the sheath and stated smugly. In reply, Tom snorted quietly. He took another look at the map. It indicated that he needed to travel southeast. Surprisingly, there was only one clear path into the forest: the one behind Fluttershy’s cottage, which was near the Messerschmitt’s werck.

With confidence, he started his journey into the mystical forest.

First he headed for the town hall. As indicated on the map: there should be two bridges over a small stream from Saddle Lake up north. He could swim or walk along the stream into the forest, but didn’t wish to soak himself.

Tom turned left at the square which had a fountain in the middle. The town hall was in sight at the distance. It was easily noticed by its large size and its dome; only building with dome-roof in town. He headed straight to it without wasting anymore time.

According to the map, there were two bridges to cross a stream. One led north to cherry blossom field, and another led south to Fluttershy’s cottage. The path across the bridge followed the skirt of the Everfree forest. In the map, the forest was simply a big green spot with a notable red description:

EVERFREE FOREST: A VERY DANGEROUS PLACE. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ENTER IF YOU WISH TO COME OUT ALIVE.

Ponies seemed to be overly afraid of this forest. What could possibly be in there to give them such fright? Tom wondered idly as he went around the town hall to locate the bridge.

From my source: the forest has numerous supernatural phenomenons, and ferocious creatures roam the landscape, explained Thor, using the telepathic link she had established last night.

I see… Tom muttered, deep in thought. And who’s this so called ‘source’? he asked curiously.

One does not simply question the Lord.

Remind me not to, Tom replied mockingly, crossing the bridge as he had intended moment ago.

Along the rest of the journey went quietly. A couple of ponies travelling in the opposite direction waved at him with their smiley faces. The peacefulness was quite rare back home in the jolly old England. Bombed day and night by Göring’s Luftwaffe, paranoid of invasion by Hitler’s army. Tom couldn’t rest his mind, worry about Angus: his parent and savior; alone at home in Glasgow with no one to tend the old man. A man at sixty isn’t exactly helpless, but nevertheless, he couldn’t help but concern about his wellness.

Within Tom’s head, Thor was observing his thought and couldn’t resist the urge to calm him. Your prayer has been answered.

“What?”

“About your elder. He’s all well and happy at home, practicing with his bagpipe and traditional Kilt,” Thor said in calming demeanor.

“That old man loves his pipe. I swear he even slept with it once,” Tom joked with a smile on his face. The trouble was far from his mind once again.

But the calm sensation didn’t last long. His ace pilot instinct was kicking at his head violently. He sensed trouble following at the distance. He looked back to see Gerhard and a herd of ponies at the bridge he had just cruised over, heading at the same direction as his.

This was the perfect moment for him to start running.

First, he quickened his pace, started by running, then ended in full sprint. He was quite agile. The world went into blur. The landscape flew by. He moved past the same barn which he had passed two days ago. The scent of cow’s manure made its way to his nose. He could see a clock tower in the distance, indicating that he was near his destination.

Upon arrival at Fluttershy’s cottage, Tom noticed the three fillies from his welcome party. He didn’t quite catch their names yet, but he decided to ignore them for the time being, even if they were tampering with the wreckage of the once glorious Messerschmitt BF 109 E, which was potentially dangerous for non-air force personnel.

Tom proceeded onto Fluttershy’s doorstep, knocked in sequences, and waited.

Inside, Tom heard Fluttershy’s voice closing in, “Oh… There’s someone at the door. I’ll be back real quick, little ones…” The door opened a little bit, then Fluttershy peeked out, brushing her pink curtain-like mane a little bit for better view of the guest.

“Oh… Tommy, What can I do for you?” she asked in her usual shy posture, trying to avoid unnecessary eye contact with her mane.

“I jus ‘av lil’ favour ta ask yer,” he replied, relocating to get a clear view of Fluttershy’s face. “I’ll git in the Evarfree. If anyone ask, tell them I’ll be back by the evening.”

Fluttershy gasped in surprise. “D… Don’t go in there!” she warned softly.

“Why?”

“The weather in there operates on its own! The animals are untamed. Dangerous creatures roam the territory! P… Please don’t go in there…” she implored while hiding majority of her face behind the door.

“I need to, lass. An I got Thor here,” Tom said reassuringly as he pat the dagger tied to his belt.

“W… Who’s Thor? If you don’t mind me asking, of course…” She looked around outside, scanning for anybody beside the British ace.

“Here” Thor hissed, which made Fluttershy jump from the creepiness and slam her door shut in fear.

“Hold ya horses, lass!” He snickered at the little pun he made, but shrugged it away in order to regain his composure. “Thor, ye shouldn’t have scare her like that!” Tom scolded fretfully.

Thor, beside from giggling at her antics, was shaking with mirth.

Sighing in frustration, Tom pounded the door a couple of times, “Lass, she’s just pullin’ yer leg. C’mon out.”

There was silence, except from Thor trying to stop her laughter, then the door swung open slowly. And once again, Fluttershy poked her head out, but this time with more caution.

“Thor, introduce yerself properly like a lady ye are.”

“I’m Maria Thorpe, the holy enchanted sword, but I just changed into a dagger, as you can see. You can call me Thor like Tom just did. Charmed to meet you,” Thor introduced. “I would offer you a handshake, but unfortunately, I don’t have hands; at least in this form anyway.”

“Erm… My name’s Fluttershy.” said Fluttershy, very quietly.

“Come again?”

“Fluttershy…” she repeated, a bit louder this time.

“Perhaps a little bit louder?”

Tom facepalmed and exhaled in annoyance. “Her name is Fluttershy,” he interrupted to cut short the conversation. “Anyway, we will go in there an’ git out by the evening, don worry. lass. What could possibly go wrong?” With that, he departed, leaving Fluttershy to look at him worriedly as he disappeared into the Everfree.

*****

“Und there it ist…” Gerhard paused. There were some ponies messing with the Messerschmitt’s wreck. He recognized them from the Nightmare Night Party. He only hoped that they hadn’t done any more damage to the plane yet.

Gerhard rushed to the plane. Soon, the yellow one acknowledge his presence. She jumped off the fuselage onto the left wing to greet him.

Without warning, the nose MG-17s started firing its 7.92 mm rounds at the herd. The three fillies were scared by the loud noise of gunfire, jumped off the wreck, and ran away.

Twilight cast a shield spell instinctively to defend the little group. Gerhard dived out of the way automatically on the second the gun started firing, but unfortunately, the bullet was faster than him. His foot was shot; blood splurted from the wound. The pain was strong. He bellowed in agony while crawling away from the ballistics, blood dripping in trail everywhere he dragged himself upo..

Back behind Twilight’s magical shield, the unicorn grunted tiredly, struggling to keep the shield up against the barrage of bullets flying right at the group of researchers and herself. Within this rate of fire, she couldn’t hold on any longer than a minute, so she started strafing out of the bullet path; the others followed.

The trail of blood ended at Gerhard who was near his fighter, he tried to stand up, hoping to limp to the three fillies to grab them out of danger, but his current strength couldn’t comply his wish.

After calming herself and adapting to the situation, Ava dashed out toward her fallen husband. Upon reaching Gerhard, she picked him up carefully, trying not to cause any more pain to the wound.

“Gehen Sie erhalten diese drei. Ich werde in Ordnung sein. (Go get that three. I'll be fine.)” Gerhard grunted, grabbing onto his ankle in attempt to stop the bleeding. “Los!” he barked.

Ava compiled without question. She ran behind the machine guns and grabbed the frightened fillies out, put one on her back, and carried the rest in her arms. She rushed out of there as fast as her legs could carry her and the fillies.

Finally, the continuous firing stopped. The barrels turned into hot red tone from the heat, smoke emitting from the wing from the air-cooling process.

Twilight lowered her shield, worn out. Calpain, who was behind Twilight at all times, exhaled in relief. He took out a little notebook from his lab coat’s pocket and started scribbling. The information about the armament was written down in full detail about the experience he and his team just faced. He described it with a single word: devastation. Nothing is better to portray it.

Ava put the fillies down and darted back to the injured Gerhard. “Schätz, hat die Blutung aufgehört? (Honey, has the bleeding stopped?)” she questioned in concern.

“Nein,” was a short answer from Gerhard. “Krankenhaus... Jetzt… (Hospital… Now...)” said Gerhard. He needed to conserve his energy. He had lost some blood and was still losing more. A doctor was the only thing he wanted right now.

“Jawohl.” Ava grabbed Gerhard’s wing and got up carefully. Gerhard stood on one leg like a flamingo and limped away.

“Halt!” Calpain shouted after them, He called up three of his researchers and asked them to give the German ace a lift. They lined up in a row, “Schau ihn an. Sie werden das Krankenhaus so schnell wie ihre Hufe lassen Sie sie erreichen. (Drop him on. They will reach the hospital as soon as their hooves let them.)” He gave his stallions a nod. They left with great haste, blood still dripping from Gerhard’s foot, staining the stallion’s coat.

“Ich werde auch gehen! (I’ll go too!)” Ava uttered on the verge of tears. She couldn’t stand having her husband getting hurt and being able to do nothing but look. Since their marriage, she had vowed with her life to be at his side, disregarding any consequence or situation. And she wouldn’t ever go against her own words.

“Aber wir brauchen Sie hier für den fliegenden Apparat. (But we need you here for the flying contraption.)”

“Vergiss es. Ich werde mit ihm sein. Er braucht mich mehr denn je, (Forget it. I'll be with him. He needs me more than ever)” she stated with her arms crossed, frowning upon Calpain, who started to be more vulnerable against her strong will.

Calpain sighed in defeat. “Verstanden, beeilen Sie sich oder Sie werden nicht, ihn einzuholen. (Understood, hurry up or you won't catch up with him.)” He agreed and let her go.

Ava thanked him shortly, then departed in hurry, disappearing in the distance.

Calpain watched her, wondering if he had a wife, would she be like her? He shrugged the thought off. There was much work to do. He turned to his team plus a couple of royal guards. “Secure the perimeter. Don’t let anyone except those two or us in. Fillies and gentlecolts, we have much to work on.”

Chapter 12A: My Love, Gerd

Chapter 12A: My Love, Gerd

“Ich werde in Ordnung, Ava sein, (I’ll be fine, Ava,)” Gerhard murmured on the back of two stallions, closing his eyes. He was losing a some blood; it dripped from his foot to the ground along their way, creating a velvet trail.

“Halte durch, mein Schatz. Wir sind fast da, (Hang in there, my love. We’re nearly there,)” said Ava, tears welling up in her eyes. She rubbed them, preventing any tear from being visible; show no weakness. She put some pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding. It worked quite well. The bleeding seemed to be slowed down.

The town hall was only less than a minute from them at their current speed. The two researchers could gallop to shorten the travelling time, but canter in order to let Ava follow. The group crossed the same bridge which they had passed over some time ago and went along the path they had walked to reach Christl. Ava recalled quite clearly that she saw a glimpse of a red cross on a big facility near the train station; that must be the hospital.

There, near the train station, Ava saw it at afar: the hospital. It looked more like a manor in her opinion. She shrugged the thought off and quickened her pace to reach the front door as soon as possible.

Upon entering the building, the atmosphere of a typical hospital kicked in. Smells of vinegar and sterilized medical equipment flew into her nose instantaneously. There were only few patients at the reception. A mare amongst them got one of the weirdest injuries: head stuck in a jar, which was clearly a cookie jar.

The nurses who were stationed behind the counter screamed the moment Gerhard came in, this time not out of nervousness, but horror. His foot was punctured and bleeding little by little over time. It was slower than before, thanks to Ava’s attempt to stop it.

One of the two nurses zipped off, then returned in great haste with a wheelchair and Dr. Scalpel.

“Put him on the chair,” he ordered, but the two stallions and Ava were unresponsive. “Now!” he emphasized with high volume.

They complied after regaining their consciousness. Gerhard was still awake, despite all the blood he had lost on the way. He assisted Ava by hopping on on seat with little help from Ava and the two researchers. A little word of thankfulness from Gerhard, he made himself as comfortable as possible on the wheeled recliner as the nurse push him away.

Ava tried to follow, but was blocked by the doctor. “No, you can’t come with him. Stay here please,” he said, and hurried after the nurse and the wheelchair.

“Gott helfe meiner armen Gerd, (God help my poor Gerd,)” Ava beseeched solemnly. She chanted the prayer over and over until her husband vanished around the corner.

Gerhard struggled to stay awake. He couldn’t afford to lose himself now. He had survived more severe injuries before. He survived a crash-landing, and he survived the wooden abominations called ‘Timberwolves’ and their Über form… He shouldn’t die by little gunshot, right?

The wheelchair clashed with the double doors at the end of the hallway, going through them and coming to halt next to the operation table. The nurse and Dr. Scalpel lifted him on the table and put on their surgical masks. Before he began, he asked: “Is there any other injury beside your…” he left out there, waiting for answer impatiently.

“Nein. Only der Fuß,” Gerhard replied briefly.

“It seems that something impaled through your foot at very high velocity. I suppose you know what it is, correct?” Scalpel asked as he pulled the jackboot off his foot. Gerhard nodded in response. “Luckily, the thing punched right through your ‘fus’, so we don’t need to pull it out.” Gerhard sighed in relief. It would be a vast amount of pain if it was still in his flesh.

The doctor then flew up a bit to move some kind of medical equipment down. “We’ll X-ray your foot to see if there’s any broken bone.” He turned to the nurse and nod. She did the same thing and beelined out in great haste. “She’s out to get the films,” he clarified, “and fetch our bone specialist.”

In just a minute, the door swung open. The nurse had returned with another unicorn mare. She was a quite skinny mare, judging from the size of her head compared to her body and legs. Her curly mane was chestnut brown, with sand colour highlighted.

“Bones is the name,” she promptly introduced herself and started the procedure. Gerhard could say that she lived up to her name. Her coat was exactly bone white. “Penny, slide the film under his fus,” The nurse complied. Then, she suggested that Scalpel should stand back. “You sir, close your eyes if you don’t wanna be blind,” she ordered. Her horn lit up in yellow glow.

The X-ray machine growled a low mechanical sound and flashed a brilliant light.

The flash was so bright, Gerhard could still see it through his eyelids. He heard Bones’ voice telling him that he could open his eyes. He did so.

Bones used her magic to levitate the film underneath his foot out and clipped it on the projector on the wall. Surprisingly, the film showed that the bullet went through a gap between his toes without causing any extra damage to the bone. For the first time, Bones smiled. Even so little, but visible.

“Good news. Whatever impaled your fus, it went right through. No damage to the bones whatsoever,” she proclaimed with glee, “Anyway, I’m off. Somepony just found a skeleton on the outskirt of town, and it needs an autopsy.”

“Good luck, Bones!” the nurse bid farewell to the doctor as she depart.

“You cheated death once again, Mr. Barkhorn.” rasped Dr. Scalpel.

“Es ist nicht der death. I only have gute Freunde und Familie,” Gerhard objected while examining his wound. The bleeding had stopped. He chuckled amusingly at wound. Now, it should be treated well and he’ll be back to normal in no time.

“I see the bleeding has stopped?”

“Ja,” Gerhard replied, “Nun, zu tend die Wunde.”

“Let’s go to surgery room then. Can you assist me on dragging you on the chair?” Gerhard groaned in annoyance and compiled by hopping on his good leg. The nurse could do little to help him, so she positioned herself at the side to catch him in case he tripped.

Dropping his bum on the seat, the nurse stood up on her hind legs and grasped onto the handle behind the wheelchair. The little group made their way back along the empty hallway. Occasionally, there were a couple of hospital staffs walking about or relatives visiting their sick ones. It was a warm sight to see. The hospitals back home weren’t like this at all. Most young men went to war; some never return, but some return in pieces, so the only visitors were children and ladies, rarely elders.

“The wound will only need stitching and bandaging, that’s all. No need to stay here another time,” started Scalpel. “Octavia is quite lonely in her ward. Well, mainly because her new ward mate had a serious injuries all over, so he can’t talk at all.” He paused, thinking. “Tell you what, you should pay her a visit after I’m finish with your wound. Is that fine with you?”

“Ja, es would be best. Meine Frau need some hospitality from her,” said Gerhard. “How lange do you think es will take zu be fully recovered?” he asked, sneaking a look on his foot. It didn’t exactly seem severe, but nevertheless, disabled him from any fast pace activity.

“I say… about six months, and you will need a support cane for half of that period,” he answered. “Though, the healing time can be accelerated by taking therapy every week.” he added in suggestive manner.

“Was therapy?”

“Herbal therapy,” replied Scalpel. The tenseness shown on his face changed to more enthusiastic demeanor. “It’s amazing that these plants in the Everfree Forest are capable of accelerating healing rate and curing some diseases, don’t you think?” He paused. “I hear that Zecora is quite an expert herbalist, but… I haven’t got a chance to talk to her yet.”

“Wer ist this Zecora?” Gerhard questioned curiously.

“Oh she’s a zebra. Came to town a little over a year ago. At first, everypony was scared of her, but after a while, she became quite a common sight down the market. Little Applebloom said she’s a super expert botanist the last time she paid a visit. Not only that, Zecora also mastered the art of brewing potion too!” He smiled in excitement.

“So I should visit her für die Therapie?” he uttered, quirking his eyebrow, waiting for the approval.

“Yeah, ask Applebloom about that. She’s the only one who goes in that forest every so often. Quite brave, if you ask me. That place is way too creepy for me.” A jolt of cold ran down Scalpel’s back as the image of the forest projected in his head, forcing him to shiver as it passed along his spine. “Oh and here we are!” he exclaimed as they reached a door.

“Endlich! (Finally!)” exclaimed Gerhard, “Der pain ist more tense by der second.”

“Then, we should hurry. Nurse, prepare disinfectant and the stitch. Maybe a roll of bandage as well — thanks.” The nurse who had been pushing him nodded and went ahead in the room. Scalpel noticed Gerhard’s glare and quirk of eyebrow. He smiled and resolved the curiosity on the German ace’s face: “You see. I’m no unicorn, so stitching your fus is out of question.” He sat on his haunches, lifting both front hooves for Gerhard to see.

“Richtig… (Right…)”

“By the way, what did you do this time?” Scalpel questioned while inspecting the hole in Gerhard’s foot. He hoped what it wasn’t infected yet… If it was, then this man would have a hard time ahead of him.

“Es ist complicated—” Gerhard made a woeful face, “—und most unfortunate ever.”

Scalpel simply shrugged. “Well, we have some time before she returns with a unicorn nurse. Go ahead and tell your tale!” he beamed at Gerhard, encouraging him with best possible pleading eyes. They sparkled in the glowing light bulb from the ceiling, casting an eerie glow on their pupils. Gerhard had no idea how the ponies did it, but indeed it was unresistable.

He started his tale from the time he was at the train station earlier that day, and ended with the three little fillies fooling around his Christl.

Doctor listened quietly the whole time like a well-mannered gentlecolt. From what he had been hearing, this man’s luck wasn’t at his side for all these time. Pity.

In middle of the story, Gerhard felt a minor pain from the hole in his foot. Inflammation must have begun, he thought. Telling his doctor would be a good idea.

But abruptly, he sneezed, forcing Scalpel to shield himself in order to avoid catching anything from Gerhard.

“Bless you.” He wiped his front leg which, was covered in saliva and other liquid, with his doctor coat.

“Vielen Dank. (Thank you very much.)” He rubbed his nose. The sudden sneeze also gave him a running nose. “Ava used zu say dass if someone ist talking about you, you sneeze.”

Finishing cleaning his leg, he turned back to Gerhard, intrigued. Even though he was occupied with something else, he was paying attention the whole time. “That’s an interesting belief.”

“Indeed es ist. Wonder who was es.” Gerhard pursed his lips, feeling that he forgot something. “Oh! I feel little pain from der Wunde — I think es ist getting infected.”

Scalpel’s eyes widened. “Where is a unicorn when we need one!” he grumbled in frustration while walking to the corner which the nurse had disappeared and peeked around. “Oh, there you are. Come quick! We don’t have time for your tardiness now!” He beckoned anxiously for her to come over in great haste.

A unicorn nurse bolted into view from behind the corner, panting in exhaustion from running at full speed.

“Sorry!” she exclaimed, panting. “Let’s get to work before his wound gets infected.” She pushed the wheelchair into the room with her magic.

Infection wasn’t something you can fool around with; getting killed was a possibility. It had started. If the nurse immediately applied the disinfectant, things wouldn’t go any deeper down the hole.

Gerhard was inside. Everything was like the previous room: plain white wall, plain white floor, except that it was smaller. Everything seemed to be in plain colour in this place. He held no offense toward the colour, but should they at least add some other shade?

“Seriously, dieser place needs mehr colour,” suggested Gerhard.

“We planned to, but the fund isn't here until next month. They are gone to... new medical equipments...” he explained, patting the back of his head.

Suspicious... Gerhard thought. Had they wasted the money on unnecessary stuffs?

"Okie, let's get started.” The nurse levitated out a stitch and a length of sterilized string. She gestured Gerhard to sit on the wooden pony-sized chair in the corner before following with the stitching tools and a bottled of disinfectant. He placed his rear on the chair gently, putting his weight on his legs, fearing that it might break into pieces from all his weight. He shifted his weight little by little, the tiny seat taking more of his weight as well.

Finally, he let go of all strength. The chair gave a short quiet creek and bent. It must have been made of softwood to bend this much and stay in its distorted shape. He shifted his weight onto his legs in order to avoid destroying the property of hospital. It would cost him arms and legs for sure; property of the state was quite expensive, except if this was a private hospital.

“Kann I have einen bigger chair bitte?” He sprang up on one foot, regaining his balance before he could crash down with the chair.

The nurse looked around. Coincidentally, there was a medium sturdy-looking stool sitting around in the corner of the room. She brought it over in her magical grasp, emitting a peculiar sound whilst as if it was meant to ring aloud every time they use magic.

“Here.”

“Danke, schön.”

The nurse was a bit confused at the reply, but eventually, she made out that it was a ‘thank you,’ so she carried on.

Scalpel just stood beside her, overseeing the procedure closely. He felt quite useless. Not having a horn was quite a powerful con for a stallion in his career, but at least he had his wings…

The stitching had begun.

First, the nurse splashed some of disinfectant on piece of cotton and wiped the wound, sterilizing it. Gerhard winced as soon as the coldness of the liquid made contact with his wound, sending a jolt of pain up his back. He gritted his teeth tightly, preventing himself from amputating his own tongue. Doubling the safety measure, he rolled his tongue back.

The pain was a lot less than when the Über-Timberwolf was trying to shred him to pieces a couple of days ago. It was unbearable, yet he survived. This shouldn’t be much of a problem for Gerhard.

For a nice clean wound, the nurse soaked the stitch and string with antibiotic and started her job. The needle was steady as she sewed through his flesh at great speed, but with gentle sensation as if she was only touching. It must have took a lot of concentration, but her stature showed otherwise: licking her lips and constantly shifting between left and right side.

Cutting off the thread, she packed up the equipment. It went fairly quick, quicker than Gerhard had expected. He took a look at her finished work. The wound looked closed

Good. For once in a while, an amused smile crept on his face. He gave the nurse a thumb up before she left for her other assignments. She winked at him in return and disappeared behind the door.

Scalpel, after watching the whole thing, approached. “Well, I never saw her doing that.” he stated, wondering. “What does that sign mean?” he asked, pointing at his hand, still giving a thumb up.

“Es means gute job.” Gerhard shared his smile, getting up carefully. “Nun, es ist time zu pay Octavia einen visit.”

“Let me accompany you. I don’t have any urgent work at the moment.”

“Danke.”

They traversed gradually through the corridor of the hospital in silence. Last Gerhard remembered: he and Octavia were residing in room 37. But initially, he needed to get Ava from the reception. Luckily, the route leading toward the lobby didn’t have any stairs, or he would need a while to get past them.

The destined reception was in sight. It gave Gerhard a victorious feel that he had successfully hobbled around. He quickened his pace to reach Ava. She needed a roof over her head tonight. Hurrying to ask Octavia would be a wise thing to do. Her answer was unpredictable, but trying wouldn’t hurt.

At first sight of her beloved Gerhard, she dashed over and hugged him, tears welling up in her eyes. Gerhard was pushed back a it by the force, but kept what was left of his balance. He returned the favour, nuzzled her head, and caressed her soft blonde hair. The moment lasted for a whole minute. Ava was the first to let go. She wiped away the tears with her handkerchief, followed by clearing her nose from snot. The used hankie returned to her chest pocket. It would be washed later, but the matter wasn’t as important as the one in front of her.

“Ava,” Gerhard started, looking down at her still-teary face, “Wir müssen mein Freund für das Dach über dem Kopf heute Abend fragen. (We'll need to ask my friend for the roof over your head tonight.)” He backed away. “Sie ist nur im Obergeschoss, kommen Sie. (She’s just upstairs, come.)” Gesturing for his wife to follow, Gerhard limped away. Ava and Scalpel followed, catching up with him just a bit after.

With all the hobbling, Ava decided that she should support her husband. She approached his side and slung his arm over her back, taking some of his weight. Gerhard turned to Ava and muttered his appreciation, planting a kiss on her forehead. Immediately, she shied away, blushing.

Some time passed, they finally arrived at the destined room 37, with direction from Scalpel. Honestly, Gerhard couldn’t recall the way to it either. The room brought back memory: pain and disability. He hated when he could do nothing, not even move. It made him stressed even to think about. Hastily, a nurse walked in on them, informing that Dr. Scalpel had an urgent operation waiting. He bid farewell to the couple and departed in hurry.

“Ihr Name ist Octavia,” said Gerhard, “Hier ist, was wir tun werden: da rein, führen Sie und fragen Sie sie, ob Sie in ihrem Haus zu bleiben. Die Antwort ist entweder ja oder nein. Es ist bis zu Ihrem Glück. (Here's what we're going to do: get in there, introduce you, and ask her if you can stay in her house. The answer is either yes or no. It's up to your luck.)”

She gave a quick salute in agreement. They locked eyes and nodded at the same time.

Gerhard knocked a couple of times on the door. There was a yell: “Come in!” So they complied. Gerhard swung the door open. The population of the room included Octavia, still on her bed with some casts removed, Vinyl, just visiting, and a new patient who replaced Gerhard.

Vinyl was sitting beside her roommate’s bed with a book in her hooves, presumably reading Octavia a story. “Oh hey, Jerry, how’s the thing at Twilight’s library?” asked Vinyl, closing her book and putting it next to Octavia for easy reaching.

“Guided some researchers um mein fighter. Accidentally got shot in den Fuß by it.” He pointed at his bandaged wound. “Aber alle jetzt besser!” He quickly added when Octavia’s expression showed her concern.

She sighed in relief and patted her uncasted chest while doing so. Noticing something, she leaned to her right and looked behind Gerhard. Now, she saw Ava, “And who’s that you’ve got with you?” She pointed at Gerhard’s wife. She knew all too well that pointing at other ponies was rude and ill-mannered, but what could she possibly done?

“Oh, sie ist meine Fräu: Ava,” answered Gerhard, ushering Ava out in the spotlight. “Sie arrived last Nacht, in einem glider mit einem squad of Fallschrimjäger,” he explained, and paused for a bit. “Und das ist why wir are hier. Sie needs ein roof über her head.”

Octavia sat up on her haunches and inspected Ava closely. Her appearance only displayed beauty. It made Octavia a little bit jealous… “Bitte kommen Sie ein bisschen näher, (Please come a bit closer,)” she requested, waving her hoof.

Ava complied. With her husband being aided, she couldn’t leave him, so she brought him forth. Gerhard was taken off guard by the sudden movement, but he had seen much more unforeseen things, so it was nothing.

Good at heart. Interesting… thought Octavia. All of this was nothing but a test for Ava to pass in order to earn her place in her house while she was absent, and of course, she had received top-score without any doubt.

Octavia nodded in acceptance. Ava’s expression was blank at first, but then merriness abruptly surfaced within her neutral demeanor. She squeezed Gerhard in her hug, making him choke. He lightly tapped on his wife’s shoulder to let her know that he was indeed, choking to the point which his face was turning purple.

In realization, Ava released Gerhard and apologized with a sheepish smile. Then, she turned to Octavia and gave her a hug too, but really gently

Ava gave her a thumb up. “Jawohl.”

“Danke.”

“Ihr Will. (You’re welcome.)”

Only the confused Vinyl Scratch was left out of the conversation, understand nothing. But she was sure she heard her name in Octavia’s line. There was something about her, judging by that acceptance reply from Ava.

“Jetzt ist die Zeit, die ich endlich sehen, wie meine Christl ist! (Now is the time I finally see how my Christl is!)” Gerhard exclaimed happily, disregarding his crippled movement.

“Aber Sie sind verletzt! Bitte, meine Liebe, nicht gehen… (But you're injured! Please, my love, don't go…)” Ava pleaded, holding onto Gerhard’s shoulders.

“Ich kann laufen! Und wer Ihnen Ihren neuen Ort führen wird heute Abend? Ponyville ist ziemlich groß! (I can walk! And who will guide you to your new place tonight? Ponyville is quite large!)” He paused.

“Vinyl kann Sie, Frau Barkhorn, (Vinyl can guide you, Mrs. Barkhorn,)” Octavia cut in politely. “Sie wird mehr als glücklich, dies zu tun. (She will be more than happy to do so.)”

Again, Vinyl heard her name. The plot about her was getting to the next level. She couldn’t let this slip. Perhaps she should start learning Germane…

“Tavi, what are you planning to do with me?” she asked.

“Oh it’s nothing, Vinyl. You just have to guide Mrs. Barkhorn back to our place. And maybe help Mr. Barkhorn with walking to his destination.”

“That’s quite a lot to do…”

“Why yes, it’s quite a lot. Now, would you assist the poor man and his lovely wife!”

“Aye aye, miss.” Vinyl gave a mock salute and walked over to Gerhard, levitated his wing, and gestured the German couple out the door.

“Such a lovely couple they are,” Octavia mumbled in a merriful manner before going back to finish the story which Vinyl was reading for her.

*****

“Nun haben wir hier Vinyl, Sie zu führen, vielleicht sollten wir sie nehmen, um Christl sehen? (Now that we have Vinyl here to guide you, perhaps we should take her to see Christl?)” Gerhard suggested as their small group passed the Golden Oaks library. And again, Vinyl felt the urge to learn Germane so she could understand what they were planning with her.

Ava took his idea into consideration for a moment. “Vielleicht. Gehen Sie weiter und frage sie, (Perhaps. Go ahead and ask her,)” she replied neutrally.

“Vinyl, would du like zu see mein plane?”

“I guess so? I’ve been wondering what that thing looks like ever since you told me about it a while ago,” said Vinyl.

“Then lass go then.”

The town of Ponyville was a lot more peaceful than it had been in the day. Celestia’s sun set on the horizon, shining its last golden light before making way for the night to fall. The population of the town was either inside their homes or strolling about in the cobblestone streets.

It was Gerhard’s turn to take the lead. He had passed the street of which Octavia’s house was located on. He meant to inform Ava the position of her sleeping place that night, but it was a tiny bit too late; his memory wasn’t functioning at its finest at the time.

Without realizing, the little group crossed over the bridge leading toward the crash site of Gerhard’s Messerschmitt Bf-109E. They travelled through the eastern orchard of Sweet Apple Acres, spotting a barn on the way.

Fluttershy’s cottage was in sight, and so was their destination. Along the way, there were roads: both cobblestone and dirt. They would save a large amount of time if they had a car at their disposal. They approached the bird carefully, not wishing to have the same mishaps again…

Vinyl Scratch was in awe of the Messerschmitt’s size, which easily octuple her size. She lifted her purple shades up to see it more clearly. Even when the aircraft was a wreck, she kept her beauty intact.

“Dude, this thing is huge…” Vinyl mumbled to Gerhard, closing in on the aircraft hoping to touch its surface, but the ambition died down when she touched the black and yellow tape which surrounded the plane. “How do you manage to fly this thing? It must weigh, like, half a dozen tonnes.”

“Naturlich Wissenschaft, Vinyl. Naturlich Wissenschaft… (Science, Vinyl. Science…)” Soon, he realized his mistake for speaking his native tongue. “I-I mean science, Vinyl. Science.”

“Oh! That made much more sense.”

The vicinity of the aircraft was blockaded by pre-made fences, topped with barbed wire. The two royal guards from earlier were patrolling the perimeter. They were soon to be switched by Luna’s Night guard. One of them seemed to spot him, hence, came fourth and give him a watchful expression of despise of the royal guard’s usual stoic demeanor.

“All better, I see,” said the guard.

“Ja.”

“I’ve been meaning to ask… What hit you earlier today?”

It was quite hard to explain. Maybe Gerhard should make a script especially for this question?

“Magie, (Magic)” he answered. The expression of the guard was priceless, he made a duckface and squinted at his reply. “Just kidding. Hier lass me explain…”

One boring explanation of whole history of firearm later…

“Wow!” he exclaimed, amazed. “I wish I have that kind of weapon…”

“Fret nicht. Princess Luna ist working on it. Soon, you will have them in der Waffenkammer.” Gerhard gave him a slightly comforting smile and carried on staring at his fighter.

She was a wreck alright, but nevertheless, her beauty was intact. A few scratches ran along the side of grey fuselage, revealing the messed-up interior. Her yellow nose was crushed by the impact against the boulder, which shattered the propellers in every direction, ranging from tiny little shrapnels to a whole blade. The cockpit’s windows were broken. Shards and dust of glass were littered on the seat. They shone against the last golden light of the day, reminding Gerhard of stars and planets in the distance space.

GRRRRRR

The loud noise of a rumbling stomach distracted Gerhard from staring blankly at his plane. Ava snickered lightheartedly at his side while he was rubbing his belly. It was at least six hours since his last meal: several muffins. His ration ran out two days ago. Pity, he enjoyed those Hasenpfeffer and Kartoffelsalat so much when they lasted.

The royal guard too, couldn’t help but chuckle along with Ava. Gerhard turned to the royal guard and gave him a glare, but broke it eventually. He proceeded to ask: “Wo are die researchers?”

“Oh… They put on yellow tape around the place and left us to guard it. I suppose they’re in town for dinner, and perhaps a hotel. They have work tomorrow after all,” he pointed out.

Out of nowhere, duo bat guards trotted in on them. The day guard stood to attention instantly, saluting both of them. They returned the salute and walked in on his place. They exchanged salutes before parting. Both day guards walked away in silence beside each other with synchronized pace.

Sensing something, Gerhard turned around. He was being watched. He could feel it. There was something in the forest, but now it was gone. The feeling of being watched faded away in time. This shouldn’t slip past. Too suspicious. He approached one of the bat guards, informing him of the sinking feeling growing in the pit of his stomach: one of a great eye sweeping its gaze upon him.

Gerhard sighed. He was too hungry and tired to stay here in the darkness with those eyes watching him. “Perhaps wir should go back und have dinner?” he suggested.

“Man, you gotta want to see my club. We serve food too. Good idea?” asked Vinyl, “Maybe get a couple of drinks before ditching at Tavi’s place?”

“Ja, lass jetzt los. I am so hungry…”

Chapter 12B: Infiltration

Chapter 12B: Infiltration

Tom moved down the dirt road into the heart of the forest, keeping Thor ready in his hand at all times. He was extremely confident about this trip. With his swordsmanship combined with Thor’s supernatural power, he was unstoppable.

His eyes darted around the environment, wondering when the beasts within the wilderness would emerge from the bushels to strike upon him. There were eyes glowering from various directions: within the bushes, up in the trees, and even in plain areas at afar in the darkness. He didn’t care what they were; they were following him since his entrance to the forest.

His sense never failed him, not in casual life nor combat. Well, maybe once or twice, but he never repeated a mistake. Now that he had gotten himself a pair of shades from Vinyl which allowed him to see in pitch-black conditions, failing to see in the Everfree was pretty much impossible.

He bet that every creature in this cursed forest must have had the same ability too, since it was so difficult to see.

The deeper and deeper he marched, the more dense it was. The eyes lurking within the shadow had disappeared pair by pair over time, their whereabouts unknown to Tom. The path he was following ended before him, revealing a hut in middle of a clearing. It explained the absence of the eyes: a resident of mysterious pony in middle of the clearly dangerous forest.

The hut was carved into a fat elm tree. The trunk was awfully wide, but wasn’t as large as the Golden Oak library. Vines draped over the majority of its branches as if they were snakes squeezing the tree; one could easily mistake them at the distance. Two tribal masks decorated the exteriors: one above the door, and another laid against tree’s root beside the entrance. Twin oval windows made holes on both sides of the door, barring by mere crossed twigs.

Most importantly, several bottles of various hues dangled from the branches with only ropes to hold them.

Tom wondered if the owner of this hut was really a pony or some other being. He had been reading some novels about adventure in African savanna. The masks on the door matched the description of African tribal masks perfectly. The tribe in the great plain was known for cannibalism, from the statement in one of many books, but if it wasn’t proved by many sources, he wouldn’t believe in such mad allegation.

Aside from the uncommon appearance, Tom could smell something foul from each bottle. The scent’s role was possibly to keep any harmful creature at bay; smart tactic.

Suddenly, Tom heard some muffled speech from inside of the hut. The owner’s home, he thought, preparing to dive into the nearest bush in case someone would go outside. Then, he stopped dead. The last time he entered a bush, he stumbled upon a nettle bramble. One could say that he had learnt something in a very hard way that night with that big red rash on his bum: from now on, albeit any situation, he shouldn’t jump into any bush without proper examination.

Leaf after leaf he had stared upon, he finally find an applicable one which he search for. So in he went…

Making himself comfortable in squat position, he peered through thick layers of leaflets. Observation gradually became his profession through countless reconnaissance missions behind enemy’s line until the Commonwealth force desperately retreated in humiliation at Dunkirk a few months back.

sssssssssss…

Tom turned to the source of the noise behind him. It was a snake. His choice of hiding place couldn’t be worse

At the speed of lighting, the snake sprung at him and left two tiny holes over the cross mark on his left hand. He grunted in pain with teeth clenching. Screaming would only attract attention. He retaliated right away by slashing Thor blindly. Such action was foolish of him. He could cut his own hand, but a little resistance in his swing made him realize that he had hit the destined target, and most importantly, it wasn’t his hand. He felt the splash of blood contacting his skin, followed by an audible ‘thud’ on the ground.

Panting heavily, Tom opened his eyes. The pain was almost unbearable. Going to library every now and then gave him knowledge of survival in Africa and other parts of the world. Why had he read so much about Africa? Not long ago, he dreamt about flying in a desert as far as eyes could see, and that was when the Italians attacked Egypt, and when Britain deployed its troops to defend Suez canal from any threat looming.

Back to the point: there were two kinds of snake: non-venomous and venomous. The illustrations of both type of snakes were still fresh within the depth of his memory. He recalled that the venomous family, the pit viper, had triangular head, in exception of the coral snake.

Looking at the decapitated snake, it was definitely dead in that state. Serpent problem aside, he inspected his left hand. To Tom’s surprise, there weren’t any holes on his hand, indicating that the snake which attacked him was, in fact, a non-venomous kind of snake.

Tom shared his sympathy. It shouldn’t have died. With a closer look, he noted that the snake had a beautiful pattern on its skin. Most of its body was brown, except for some part which had a white stripe across. There was also a gooey ball beside its corpse. He made out some features from the unrecognisable bunch; it was just a half-digested vermin.

Interrupting Tom’s train of thought, a series of gunshots echoed through the forest, startling the birds nested on the trees. From squatting stance, he dropped down on the ground in prone position instinctively, and stayed like that until the firing had ceased.

The pattern of the firing was long and unbroken. Machine gun was his first assumption, judging from sound and interval of each shot, unless it was a dozen of soldiers commenced focus firing upon specific target, which of course, impossible. He heard an agonizing scream, muffled by the wind. Someone was shot…

What the bloody hell is happening out there?

Oh it’s nothing! The wounded will survive. Carry on with your head hunting, Thor replied.

Tom was unsure whether if Thor was serious or not, but she was a magical talking sword with supernatural abilities, so distrusting her would be downright foolish.

The door to the hut swung open, revealing a pony-sized insectoid creature. Absent of slightest trace of coat or fur, its skin was as dark as the sky of the moonless night. The horn which adorn on its head was much like that on a rhinoceros’ nose, but unlike its pony counterpart, it was much smaller and had darker shade. Pupils which should be in its eyes were also missing, replaced by blue compound eyes; as well as several portions of its limbs. A pair of long fangs hung down from its upper jaw like vampiric bat.

Before any further inspection of the dark creature could be done, it burst into a green flame right before Tom’s eyes!

He was caught by surprise and stumbled backward, being careful not to fall on the ground, as well as avoid creating any noise.

When the fire died down, in the creature’s place, there stood a female zebra with many golden rings over her neck, smaller rings on her leg, and ridiculously large earrings.

Tom was even more surprised than before, rendering him stunned for a few more seconds.

The zebra shook her head a little bit before walking the path he had taken on his way in. She disappeared into the midst of the forest, leaving the disoriented ace behind.

What the hell was that!? he thought with his jaw dropped.

Shut your mouth, please! You wouldn’t want anything flying in your mouth, Thor suggested, so Tom complied without further question. Things are getting fishy here, Tom. Investigation should be carried out. Be swift and silent like a wolf on the hunt.

Acknowledged, Tom drew Thor out of her sheath, creating a small sound of metal grating with the leather. He rolled toward the suspicious hut. Everything was dead quiet: no wildlife, no natural sound whatsoever. He rolled out of hiding, forward to the building before him. Hard ground had rendered his backside aching, but little pain could wait. He moved silently under the shadow of the house and stopped under one of the windows.

Due to the shininess of Thor’s surface, she doubled as a mirror. Tom held the reflective dagger above him to observe the situation inside.

More of those dark hole-y beings were inside along with a gagged zebra tied to a chair, blindfolded. He spotted three of them plundering the whole place in search for something. This was a great chance for surprise attack, Blitzkrieg style.

Great. A hostage situation.

I’m sure you can handle petty thing like this, Tom. Go and whip their arses!

Tom sighed in annoyance. Thor’s attitude had changed lately, but he could worry about that after leaving this forest. First, was the matter at hand. Discussing it could follow.

My dear master, I shall answer your curious meddling thought afterward. Now, charge in there already!

He had completely forgotten about their telepathic connection. Keep on with this, and he would have no privacy.

Tom took a deep breath, preparing himself for lighting assault. He kicked the door from its hinge and charged inside, hands drawn for combat. The door had flown off under shear force and landed on one of the dark creatures, killing it instantly. The other two flinched at the agony scream of their friend; they stood dumbfounded with jaws dropped.

Taking advantage of the element of surprise, he dashed to the closest one and grabbed its horn, struck hard at the shiny neck, and ripped the decapitated head off its body. Instantaneously, it burst into flame and evaporated away in the thin air. Tom eyes widened, surprised, but the combat hadn’t end yet.

One last ebony creature was finally out of shock. Its horn started glowing sick green light, preparing to cast a spell to eliminate the threat in front of him.

Acting quickly, Tom threw Thor in the air, caught her by the blade tip, and threw her at the attacking creature. She cut through the air like an arrow seeking its target, fast and deadly.

She missed the target by an inch… Instead, she stuck herself into the wooden wall behind the creature.

Tom roared ragefully. Failure isn’t an option, he thought. He was left with his trusty Webley, but his ammunitions was almost out at the moment. He turned to the last option: his two god-given fists.

Tom leapt to the dark creature in attempt to tackle it, and he succeed. Both of them were on the ground, vulnerable. He brawled and wrestled the creature to stay put while he jabbed its face, specifically targeting the two white fangs standing out from the hard black skin.

A fang snapped from its place after several punches. The black creature hissed furiously upon seeing his own beloved fang fallen beside his head. In retaliation, it delivered a powerful kick to Tom’s groin: the universal weak spot for male creature. He stumbled back and dropped to the floor, clutching his life-box.

The creature got up to its leg, wiped its goo-filled mouth with its cheese-like hoof and smirked. It was time to return the favour.

It walked over the ace with difficult, and performed the horn-charging ritual again. He was unsure what the creature planned to do with him, but it would end soon. he closed his eyes, waiting for his judgement.

You bloody half-wit! I didn’t give you powers just to die like a dog! Blink! Godspeed!

Tom had completely forgotten about his newly acquired power. Silly Thomas, forgetting such important matter of life and death… He clenched his fist. The mark etched on his hand lit up in soft golden light.

“Fero,” he muttered. He evaporated into the thin air within a blink of an eye and reappeared next to Thor, a little bit disoriented.

The creature seemed puzzled. One second, the ape was lying at his mercy before him, the next, he was gone. It looked around the house in desperate attempt to find the British ace. Leaving an ape which had murdered his friends on the loose wasn’t a good idea.

POOF

Upon hearing the noise, the creature turned around, readying itself to face the ape. What it saw sent a chill down its spine

Tom’s face matched with the creature’s, dagger at its neck, smiling.

In fear, the black creature’s eyes turned from blue to yellow. It backed away instinctively, away from the razor sharp blade of Tom’s dagger. Tom followed suit. If it kept escaping, he would definitely lose the upper hand, so he grabbed its neck, holding it a little above the ground without suffocating it.

“According ta Geneva convention, er Hayneva convention, ye are ta surrender unconditionally. Nay knavish trick, nay nuthin’, an ye will b’ treated well. If ye dunnae cooperate, ye see yer ma early, understood?” Acknowledged, the creature nodded in reply. “Glad we got that straightened oot.” he slowly put the creature back on the floor, and drew his Webley with an empty hand.

“Wid ye kindly untie the poor lass, Swiss yeese?” Tom kept his sidearm fixed at the ebony creature cautiously. It walked to the chair and bit the rope loose in silence.

“Mercy? Are you sure?” Thor asked.

“Aye, Ahm sure. He was scared oot o’ eis bahooky. Let the ned live. Annae beside. Ah huv som’ quistionin’ ta do.”

After being freed from restraint, the zebra on the chair removed the blindfold. “Thank you for your kindness, to relieve me of that cloth of blindness. Changelings have been meddling with this place, and they never let me have my space. They want news and infos, in exchange for these mojos.” She gestured at her enormous earrings. “Your presence is known, but your might hasn’t shown. They wanted to know, but I could not bestow, so they —”

“Changeling?” Tom started.

“Yes—”

“Why d’ ye want the news?” He turned to the changeling. It remained quiet, avoiding eye contact with the British ace. “Ye’ll mak a better moose food than a talker, eh? Answer me er I will cut ye into pieces an feed em ta hungry rat fer supper.”

Suddenly, there was a noise of burning at the front door. “Антон, Александра, Евгений, я вернулся!” The door swung open, revealing yet another changeling. The gooey pool of blue and green blood of its friend’s corpse sent the creature into shock. It froze there right on the doorstep, unmoving.

The last changeling facehoofed and sighed. It was the last one who still stood. Finally, it spoke, “Я Александра Тредьяковский из COфКР. Серийный номер 33510 из OШО.”

“Whit did ye jus’ say?” Tom asked, puzzled by the gibberish which came out of the changeling’s mouth.

In reply, it repeated the same dialogue.

In confusion, Tom turned to Zecora, “Dae ye ken whit it said?”

In confusion, she tilted her head and cocked a brow. “To ask me this is a dead end, for this language I cannot comprehend.”

“One o’ those Saxon’s tongue are we? A’right I will speak in ‘proper English.’” He paused. “Back ta ye qustion, do ye know what it jus’ said a second ago?”

“The one who's fluent in Equish speech may be out of your power to beseech.” She pointed at the decapitated corpse on the floor with a deadpanned expression. “But on the contrary, they are something to be wary. They possess the power to disguise, which will exceed your surmise—”

Ignoring the rhyme montage, Tom once again began the interrogation. “Listen ta me, ye bugger. I ken ye understand the bloody English. Noo, answer me questions. Why d’ ye want ta know about me?” He stared into the changeling’s pupilless eyes, demanding an answer with his intimidating build.

The changeling remained silent, peering back at Tom with a stoic expression.

“Silent treatment, ar’ we? We’ll see… We’ll see…” Tom backed away for a second before drawing Thor from her sheath at lightning speed. He pulled the changeling’s leg and stabed through one of the cheese-like holes with deadly precision. Of course, the changing tried break free from his grasp, but it was all in vain. “Next, it’ll be any non-hole part o’ yer body. Noo, talk!” He pulled the dagger out. The changeling fell to its haunch, sighing in relief.

What about the Geneva Convention? asked Thor.

Whoops…

“Erm... Sorry. Me emotion has overcome the course o’ me action. It won’t happen again, promise.” Tom smiled awkwardly at the changeling for forgiveness. Then a thought hit him: why’d he not doing proper thing and take them to Equestrian authority? He mentally slapped himself in the head, ashamed of his idiocy.

Now, to execute his plan, he needed to tie them up and escort them out of the forest, but sadly, the available rope resources were too short to even make shoelace. Connecting them via knots would take too long to do. The last resort was to knock them out. Unfortunately, Geneva Convention had prohibited any kind of violence toward surrendered hostile personal, so he had to come up with something…

Tom looked around as he crossed out methods from the options. Then he realized: he was standing in a hut with the zebra who had vast amount of botanical expertise at her disposal!

“Zecora, do ye hav’ any sleepin’ brew er somethin?”

“As the matter of fact, I do.” She walked to a cabinet and opened it. Inside, there were various bottles ranging from small to big, colourful to lifeless black and white. Grabbing the midnight blue hoof-sized one, she handed it over to Tom. “And it’s universal too!”

Tom mumbled a word of thank and proceeded to uncork the vial, which was abruptly stopped by Zecora’s hoof. “This here elixir you hold has an instruction to be told. Apply a dose where it hurts the most, and you’ll find your pain has met its bane.”

Tom nodded, “A’root, got it,” and pulled the cork out. He quickly pinched his nose, blocking the entrance of the possibly-harmful stench which typical potions tended to emit. “S’ Ai splush tae thin’ oon te woon?” said Tom, still with the fingers on his nose, rendering his usual thick Scottish accent incomprehensible.

Zecora gave a simple nod as answer, fetching a shovel from her closet to bury the remains of the changelings. “You should leave now with the two of those, for these bodies I will now dispose.…” She left the spade leaning against her door. “Return to Ponyville. Bury these corpse I will.” Pointing outside the door, she waited patiently for Tom to sedate the changeling while she picked up the shovel with her mouth.

“WAHHHH!”

Without hesitation, he splashed the whole bottle onto the changeling’s head. It yelped in surprise, staggering for a moment before dropping on the floor, out cold. Tom smiled smugly and lifted the sleeping changeling up in his arm.

Amidst the disgusting shell of the changeling, he saw glimpse of cuteness. Everything in this particular world seemed to be adorable. Silly him.

He then proceeded to pick up another survivor of the changeling’s squad. It was still unconscious. Now, he had no means of defending himself in the forest, since both of his hands were occupied with two knocked out changelings.

On his way out, the forest was unnaturally quiet, as if there was something which ceased all the activities of the wild. He paid no mind to it, but he kept his guard up, anticipating for the jump-scare surprise. He swore he caught a flash of a tall pony in a black suit and tie, but it might just have been his imagination.

Finally he was out of the creepy forest. He took a deep breath in relief. How could Zecora live in that forest? he pondered.

“That thing you saw. He was just trying to make sure you get out of the forest unharmed. Shall we give him a visit next time?”

“Meh.” Tom then quickly made his way to Golden Oak Library in search for the mare who would know what to do with these two: Twilight Sparkle.