Ah, shit. Out of every pony I could have run in, I had to run into the Rainbow fucking Dash of this universe. The worst of it all is that she was pointing a gun at me while my arms were full with Luna in them. She didn't take her eyes off me as I watched her adjust her grips on her gun. Taking a closer look I noticed she had a second gun in a holster as well as a knife slipped into her right combat boot.

“I will ask again. Who... are... you and why are you here?” She asked before she finally glanced down at the mare in my hands. “And why do you have Princess Luna?” Slowly watching her click the safety off.

“Nerada,” I answer.

“Excuse me?” She said looking both confused and angry.

“My name is Nerada,” I answered as Shadow began slowly creep up my tail.

“Nice to meet you. Now, why are you here?” She asked slowly moving to the right as I could see that her trigger finger shifted just a little. Great... she has an itchy trigger finger too. Fuck, I've got to deal with her too.

“I'm here for a ride,” I answered as I could feel Shadow slide up my side, and down my left arm.

“Sorry, this is a private ship. So I would suggest you put down the pony unless you want to have a... problem.”

“I can't do that.”

“This is not up for a debate.”

“I still can't do that.” Part of me wanted to trust her, I really did. But there were too many factors that I couldn't trust anyone. Celestia was a dictator in this universe as a Nightmare Moon figure. If that could happen then the 'element of loyalty' could be a backstabber. With Luna in my arms, I couldn't take the chance.

“Sorry to hear that.” She said as she straightened her arm. In a blink of an eye, Shadow shot out from shadow being created by under Luna. In that movement, Shadow reached up to point her gun up as I ducked down.

Bang.

The shot rang out striking the metal walls of the ship. That followed by a snap and a scream of pain from Dash. Shadow crushed down on her forearm and shattered it. He then grabbed her by the mouth and dragged her into the room. Setting Luna back down into a chair, I began to set Dash's arm with a splint while Shadow disarmed Dash of all weapons. The amount she had on her was a little surprising. I missed two brass knuckles, four throwing knives, three clips of bullets, and a pair of spring triggered boot knives, which left Dash in a pair of socks. Don't ask me where she hid them and I frankly didn't want to think about it. Regardless, after I had her arm set. I went to work inbounding and gagging her to another one of the chairs as well as chain her to the table itself. Lucky for me the latter of them were bolted to the floor.

“Shadow check the hall,” I said as Dash watched my shadow stretch to the door and under the small gap at the bottom. In seconds it snapped back as my left ear twitched a bit.

“Bad news, we have company and she's built like a brick.” As soon as Shadow said that there was a pounding at the door.

“Open this cotton-picking door.” Said a familiar southern drawl. Oh great, that's what I fucking need right now. God damn, Applejack of all ponies. Don't tell me I found the one god damn ship that had two familiar ponies on it. Grabbing Luna I began to sink into my shadow. Dash with her eyes wide watched as my world turned into an inky black. After a few seconds, Shadow spits the two of us out in what looks like a large shipping container. We came out in the back of it away from the door. We sat Luna down one of the largest creates in there as I began to focus on giving her more magic. This time however was enough time for her to get at least in the best condition as best as I could. I'm sadly not a medical expert, but after flash studying medical and first aid books. Gave me a one-up on dealing with this. As I began to give her a small physical to try and figure out the extent of the damage.

From what I could figure out, she didn't have any broken bones other than in her joint of her wings. Most likely a measure to keep her grounded and harder for her to escape. Otherwise, all I could see is a lot of bruises. Mostly in the ribs as well as the back between the wings. Very painful spots, especially the latter with the nerve cluster between them. One good strike could cause so much pain that it could drop any winged creature. It seems that 'Daybreaker' beat the crap out of her in ways to disable but not kill. Something like that comes from either a very sadistic being that wanted to cause as much pain as possible and to do that to one's own sister. If I didn't hate 'Daybreaker' before, I sure as hell now. As I pulled out a few healing cards, I placed them around the worst part. With a small bit of magic, the cards began to glow green for a few seconds. The wounds began to heal, as the spots looked like black oil on top of the water spreading out, but only in reverse.

It was at least a good ten minutes before Luna began to stir even a little. The only reason I have a good idea of this was that I used the clock in my prosthetic while I checked her pulse as she healed. She slowly began to move as I tried to help her get back up. Shaking the whole time, she began to look around. With a finger, I held up over where my lips were for her to remain silent. She looked scared, almost terrified as she found herself in a new box.

“Who... who are you?” She asked as she shifted back against the rather cold walls of the container.

“A friend,” I answered is a very soft whisper voice. “But right now I can't say we are safe. So please stay quiet.”

“Where are we?” Luna replied as she took the hint and began to whisper.

“A ship leaving Canterlot called The Royal Blue,” I answered.

“The Royal Blue... Royal Blue...” There were a few moments before something looked like it clicked as her eyes widened. “The Royal Blue. Sir...” She said and realized I never gave her a name.

“Nerada,” I answered.

“Sir Nerada,” Luna said and I could see the wherry in her eyes. “What happened?”

“What was the last thing you remember?” She began to think for a moment as she slid off the box onto the floor. In seconds her leg began to give way. Acting fast, I caught her and help her down to one of the later creates. “My sister asked to see me after I had gone out to do my daily rounds. She... didn't look happy about something.” She continued. Taking a spot next to her I continued to listen. “She looked rather worn out from something. From there, stuff becomes a blur.” She held her hand to her head as shook her head a little. The gesture that reminded me like someone in a fog trying to wade through it. “Just a lot of pain, then something around my feet and water... then nothing. Just all a blank after that.”

“I'm not surprised,” I said standing up.

“What do you mean?”

“Just, from the wounds, you had on you and the state you were in at the bottom of the ocean.”

“Bottom of the ocean?”

“Your sister dropped you into the ocean to 'deal' with you.” That got her to look at me in shock. “It's much worse, you were severely beaten. Nothing was broken or at least not that I could tell that wasn't already healed up magically other than your wing. Most of them were around the ribs, and the middle of your back.” She began to shake as she held herself. “The question is, what do we do now?”

“Don't you have a plan?” She asked as I can tell she's not in the best of mindsets for the time being.

“Right now it's mainly finding a safe place.”

“What about here?” She asked as she tried to get back up to her feet.

“Too many factors and I highly doubt any pony here would work with us,” I answered as I moved towards the door. Shadow taking the hint slipped through the crack to check the surroundings.

“Doesn't help you broke the arm of one of them.” Moon decided to snark in.

“That too.” I shot back over the link. Sliding one of the knives into my hand and two held magically.

“Then why this ship?” Luna asked as she with a shaken step moved towards me. Holding up a hand to make her stop, as she did. Shadow slid back in and told me the coast was clear. “Just so happened to be leaving port that I could easily hop on.”

“And what about the captain?” She asked.

“Haven't seen them.”

“Her.”

“Okay, I haven't seen her... yet.” There was a small pause before I finally ask. “Why?” She looked at me as she turned her head for a few moments. If I had to put my bits on it, she was sizing me up and down.

“I know the captain.” She answered slowly.

“How?” I asked slowly as I was not liking how this was lining up. Too many things were lining up, and if I was a betting stallion then the captain would be none other then Rarity. With both Dash and Applejack here, then I can bet that rest of them are here too. The odds of that alone just were mass to think about.

“From reports of a dear friend of mine.” She answered as I ran my tongue in the inside of my right cheek.

“And you want me to find her after we stowed away on her ship?” I asked and I watched her nod. “What's to say she's not on the same side as your sister?”

“If Twilight Sparkle trusts her then so do I.” She stated, and I so wanted to scream in frustration at hearing that. Seriously this universe is just as much of a jerk as my own, you bastard!

“I will leave this up to you then,” I answered as I walked back towards her. At that moment the door opened behind me and without even a thought I pulled one of the guns I took of Dash. Standing there in the doorway was a rather petite looking mare with an alabaster white coat. Both her mane and tail were very full and lushes purple as they both have a curled style. Her bright baby blue eyes stared at me as she stood there in a snow-white frilled shirt that was low cut, but in the cleavage area had strings to have obscure the look while still drawing a little attention to it. She wore black dress pants and with a rather functional royal purple dress shoes with a one-inch heel. In her hand was a small-caliber pistol that I wasn't sure about the ammo size. It was something that could easily hide up a sleeve at the very least.

“Ah, that's were you two of gotten too.” The very regal sounding voice of who I could assume was Rarity. “Luna it's so nice to finally meet you.” She said slowly moving into the container as the other door open to show a rather tall orange mare that was taller than me. Wearing a granny apple green shirt with a tan open vest with matching cowboy boots. Her jeans were rather straight forward with a stylized apple on the hip being covered by a set of holsters with a set of revolvers in them. In her hand was a long barrel twelve gauge shotgun with a stained wooden handle. She stared daggers at me through her bright blond mane done up like a ponytail as well as her tail too. On her head, as I had expected was a tan stetson hat, slightly pressed back as she kept her gun trained on me. Behind her was a rather angry looking Rainbow Dash with another gun in her hand as well as her broken arm in a sling.

“If ya'll smart, I would put that gun down now.” Applejack said as she cocked her shotgun. Taking the hint I dropped the gun on the spot as Shadow caught it. “Good, Now move.” She motioned with her gun as I took the hint and slowly walked past her. Followed by her she lead me to a makeshift brig. “Now I would suggest you don't move partner.” With a shove and the lock of the barred door, I found myself in a rather sparse room with only a bed in the corner. Slowly I sat on the bed as I waited.

“Why didn't you fight?” Moon asked.

“Because even I know that I am outgunned,” I answered. “The fact of the matter is that I'm a wild card in this universe. Even more so than my own.”

“So?”

“It's about this way, I've already placed myself in a position that I don't need to be in. I'm only looking for a magical sword.”

“Then why did you?”

“Because that's who he is,” Shadow answered for me. “Storm has this nasty habit to try and fix some wrongs. Especially when they are so morally wrong.”

“Morally wrong?” Moon asked.

“Celestia tried to kill her sister for no good reason. Going as far as to cause as much pain as possible that could easily be explained or hidden. This, this is something we are very familiar with.”

“So what does that have to do with allowing yourself to be locked up leaving a mare you just saved in the hands of some pony who pointed a gun at you.” The more she talked the angrier she got. I will admit, part of me was asking that very same question.

“Storm didn't want to put Luna in danger. If Applejack fired then she could be hit from the spread. Right now this is the smart option and if we had to, I can shadow step us outside and we can take to the air.”

“You do have a point,” Moon said as I began to look out the porthole to see the ocean for miles. Out in the distance, I could see islands, possibly one of them be Canterlot. I continued to watch for a few hours before I heard footsteps behind me. Turning around I saw Luna standing there.

“Hello, Nerada.” She said as she opened the door with a tray of food in her hand.

“I see you are doing better,” I replied back as I continue to watch the ocean as we go by.

“Fluttershy looked me over.” She answered as I couldn't help but roll my eyes.

“That's good to hear.” I heard the footsteps of Luna getting closer and the sounds of the tray being placed on the bed. “Why do you wear that mask?”

“Because I rather keep my face hidden.”

“Will you please show me?” Luna asked as I turned around. She was only a few feet away from me, giving me a pleading look.

“Why?”

“Because I want to look into the face of the pony that saved me.” She said as I could see by the look in her eyes that she was being honest with me. Taking a deep breath I reached up and slowly slid the mask off. If she was taken by surprise, she hid it well. “You're not like any pony else.”

“You can say that again,” I said with a smirk before I replaced the mask.

“Where do you come from?”

“Let's just say, I'm from a far far off land,” I answered as she gave me a serious look. “You wouldn't believe me if I told you.”

“Be that as it may, Rarity would like to have a word with you after you get something to eat.” She explained as I went over to the bed.

“If I may ask, what about?” With a wave of my hand, the bottom half of my mask disappeared so I could eat what looks like a mixture of oatmeal, strawberries, and a heart attack worth of sugar means I have a pretty good guess who the ships cook is.

“About what happened between you and Dash.”

“She got in the way and pointed a gun at us.”

“Well, we did board her captain's ship.”

“Regardless, I will stand by my actions. So how was Pinkie Pie?” That got her to look surprised.

“How did you know she was on the ship?” I took a bit of a harder bite as I was cursing this universe.

“A gut feeling,” I growled annoyingly. “But I will meet with her.” With a few more bites I finished the almost sickeningly sweet meal that was made for me. God, I could kill for a good burger right about now. Luna nodded and turned around with me following her. Something I didn't notice my first time through here was that the walls had maps all over them. They looked like sea charts with different routes leading back and forth between at least a good twenty count of islands. But these weren't papers on the wall, but literally on the wall themselves. This leads us back up the stairs into the meeting room where I saw Rarity, Dash, Applejack, and a fourth mare that I already knew who it was.

The lavender unicorn mare with the purple mane with the pink strip done up in a ponytail at the back of her head. She was standing there in a lab coat with a purple shirt underneath with a black dress skirt. She was staring at me with a critical eye as her horn was aglow with magic. Luna moved to lean against the wall as I stood at the other end of the table.

“So... Luna tells me that you 'saved' her.” Rarity commented as she eyed me as all I did was give a small nod. “To that we are grateful, but you did assault Rainbow Dash here when she found you. Given that she has the tendency of being a little trigger happy, I can understand that you had to take action.”

“Excuse me Rarity, this bastard broke my arm!” Dash said angrily. “We should break his arm in return.”

“You'd find that a little hard to do,” I spoke.

“Why's that?” Dash said getting into my face and was holding me by the cloak, while she hovered in front of me. With a shift of my right arm to show off the prosthetic.

“Can't break what's not there.” Dash looked at it for a moment before I lowered it back under the cloak.

“Dash darling please step back.” Rarity said grabbing said mare in her magic and brought her back over to her side of the table. Kind of funny to be honest, and with the mask, it made it hard for them to see the smirk on my face. “Why are you wearing a mask?”

“For my own protection,” I answered and it was honest. Well partly honest, as I also wanted to keep my identity mostly a secret from Celestia.

“I see.” She said and I know that tone. That is the tone of a calculated move on her part. “What is it that you want?”

“Safe passage while I search.”

“To where and for what?” Said Twilight now butting in.

“So any place where I can get special information and for an artifact,” I answered.

“What kind of special information?” Rarity cut in.

“For the location of said artifact.” I could see the increasing annoyance on Applejack and Dash's face.

“What is this artifact your looking for?” Twilight asked.

“Something not from this universe.”

“I see.” Rarity once again stated. “Will you attack any more of my crew?”

“Only if they attack me or get in my way.”

“Applejack?” Rarity asked turning to her.

“He's not lying, but he's also keeping something hidden. I still say we lock'm in the brig till we get to port.” Said the mare who was at this point, still holding a shotgun at me.

“I agree with her,” Dash commented.

“I partly agree, but he hasn't done anything since we put him there.” Rarity said.

“That and the fact that he hasn't used any magic since he's been here,” Twilight commented, of course, she would be keeping an eye on any magical uses. If some pony has shown he's able to escape easily then keeping an eye on any magic used would be rather important to know if I had escaped.

“I think we should give him a little leeway, if you would Twilight.” Twilight nodded before walking over.

“Your left arm please.” She said and I complied. She then placed a silver bracelet on me, with a click of a button in her hand. The band changed from silver to gold as I could feel an odd sensation wash over me. The last time I felt something like this was when I was in surgery to regrow my eye. If I had to guess, this bracelet blocks my magic from being used.

“Magic Nullifier I assume?” I asked.

“Yeah, this should prevent you from using any magic while it's active,” Twilight answered as I nodded.

“Fair enough.”

“While you're on my ship, you will have that on and active.” Rarity commented standing up. “Do I make myself clear?”

“Understandable.” I answered as Luna looked worried as Rarity stepped closer to me.

“What other limitations do I have?” That got her to stop for a moment.

“None that I can think off, but we will be keeping an eye on you the whole time.”

“Understood.” With that, I turned and headed to the deck. I jumped to the top of the ship so I can enjoy a bit of fresh air without and to enjoy the sunset that was starting to come. This was going to be a long trip. Truth be told, it's been a very long time since I was on any kind of watercraft like this. Seeing the sun reflect off the water in ripples. Just gave the sea the look that it was covered in jewels laid upon satin waves of orange and gold. Something I haven't seen in a long time, even during my trip to Saddle Arabia, I didn't take the time to watch the ocean we had to fly over. Since I had time, I thought I would take in the sights a little before I get to work.

***---***

“Can I ask you something?” Luna asked walking into my room in the brig. The last few hours I spent reading over the book I got from the 'Forbidden Section.'

“Go right ahead.” I said as I was intrigued by what I was reading.

“From what I was told, my sister went and melted the snow to the north and flooded Equestria. Then tried to drown me in some stunt of jealousy. Since then my sister had turned into a tyrant and started calling herself 'queen'. So that leaves you. What do you get out of it?” She asked at the door leaning against it. Slowly setting up I turned to look at her.

“If you must know, it just so happened I turned up and thought I could figure out a mystery while I was on my own mission,” I answered.

“There's more to it, isn't there?” She asks walking in a bit more.

“If you must know, honestly there isn't. While I am willing to help you if I can, I am still on my own mission and that will take priority over whatever happens here.” I answered as I slide the book under my cloak and into my special pocket.

“What is this artifact that you're looking for?” She asked going over to the table and chair in the room. Sliding it out she sat down in a very business way with her right leg crossed over her left only in the front.

“It's a special magical sword.” I answered moving to sit on the edge of the bed facing her.

“What's so special about it?”

“It's hard to explain but it's a sword that came out of nowhere.”

“Nowhere?”

“Like it popped into existence here and I need that sword.”

“Why?”

“To save every pony I care about.”

“I see.” She said standing up. “This sword wouldn't be this one would it?” She asked as her horn began to glow. In seconds a small whirlpool of blue magic appeared before her. Reaching in she pulled out a rather familiar sword.

“It's not the Moon Cleaver Luna,” I answered as she gave the sword a rather impressive flourishing twirl, before she flipped the hold where she was holding it by the handle with the blade pointed down back and the hilt up and forwards.

“How do you know the name of my sword?” She asked looking a little surprised.

“Let's just say I'm just familiar with the rumors of it.” I answered, mostly not to flat out hint that I'm from a different universe.

“I see...” She said walking over to me and she hands me it to me by the handle. Cocking my eyebrow as I reached out to grab it. As soon as my prosthetic touched it, Luna's horn lit up. The wind began to kick up around me as waves of magic wash around me. In seconds all the waves stopped and beamed towards me and slammed me into the chest. That much force threw me into the far wall that leads to the outside of the ship. Bouncing off it, I fell to the floor while the sword remained in my hand.

“The hell just happened?” I asked as I was completely winded from the force of the blow and was on my hands and knees. It felt like I was just gut-punched by a full-sized elder dragon about Razors size. Fuck, did it hurt like hell. Rushing over Luna helped me back up to my feet.

“She just bound the sword to you,” Moon answered the standing question.

“I didn't expect it to so violent.” Luna said looking worried.

“Wouldn't be the first time something like has happened.” I commented with a light-dark chuckle at the end of it. “So why did you bound the Moon Cleaver to me?”

“How did?” She asked before shaking it off. “Never mind. I wanted to give you something important for saving my life.”

“But why your sword?”

“It's the only thing I could truly give. I doubt my sister would welcome me back without killing me. So out of my options this seems like the only one I had to repay you for saving me.” She sat down next to me. “All of it was a lot to take in, to find out that my own sister tried to kill me.”

“I'm not surprised.” There was a few moments of silence. “It doesn't surprise that me that it could come to that. I mean who's to say in another life, in another time that you were the one on the attack. So many factors can lead to what has happened. I'm not saying that it makes it right, but that it could happen.” Looking down at the sword that was still in my hands as I wonder where I was going to put the damn thing. Right as that thought crossed my mind, a orange whirlpool of magic appeared before me. “That's new...” Picking up the sword, I placed it into the whirlpool. Like water down the drain, it sunk right in and disappeared.

“The sword tends to react to the wants of its owner. I'm guessing you were thinking about putting it away.” Luna asked and I only nod. “Moon Cleaver has been a trusted sword, so please treat her well.”

“I will, thank you.” I said sitting there awkwardly for what felt like hours, but I could guess was minutes. In that time I just sat there looking her over. Not directly, I did it out of the side of my view. Honestly, she was rather attractive and if wasn't already to be wed to the Twilight of my universe. I could see me trying to date this Luna. Not counting the fact that I wouldn't stoop so low as to try and date a mare who I had just saved from her sister trying to kill her. Just doesn't seem right, you know?

“Ah, that's where you two went off to. Mr. Nerada, why don't we get you set up in one of the spare room.” Rarity said as she walked in without a warning. She stood there with a look that is very familiar to my own Rarity. The look that screams 'this is not up for a debate.' Taking the hint, I stood up and followed. She leads us into another room that looks a lot more spacious. Unlike the last one, the window was wider and had shades. The bed itself had covered on it other than just a normal white sheet. This one had a nice royal blue blanket it on it with a pillow with a few sides brighter pillowcase. “I hope this one is to your liking.”

“It works.” I said stepping in to see a small bookcase of assorted books ranging from romance novels, to a few manuals. Probably to give the one's using it something to read during the trip too and from port. Looking into it, I saw a wood-carved dresser and a door that was slightly open to a bathroom or sort. Looking at it more reminded me that I could use a good shower after spending some time in the ocean.

“Lovely.” She said happily almost what I could label as giddy. She then turned towards the door. “We will be having dinner in a few hours so I would make sure your prepared. Our chef said she is going to have a welcoming meal ready for our guests.” She continues before walking out the door. Luna and I just stood there for a few moments before she left too. As soon she left I closed the door and bee-lined it for the bathroom. After everything, a good shower was what I needed.

***---***

“Rare's I don't see why you're giving the stallion free reign of the ship.” Sounding a very familiar sounding Applejack voice as I was busy drying off my mane as I walked back into my room with my mask back on.

“Darling don't be rude, he did save Princess Luna after all.” Rarity commented as I was squeezing the water into the towel. Seriously how the hell does my mane soak up so much water?

“While I'm grateful for that, I still think he has ulterior motives.” Gee thanks Applejack, I can't do something out of the kindness of my heart.

“Applejack Dear, you're overthinking it. From what I heard he's not that kind of stallion.” She said and before I knew it. They opened the door to my room to see me standing there staring back at them. I watched their gaze went to my face and slowly lowered as I could see the blush on their face began to appear and expand. That's when I followed their gaze and realized I didn't have myself covered... again. With a quick motion, I wrapped my towel around me.

“Didn't anyone teach you to knock first?” I yelled back as mares began turn redder and turn away.

“I'm sorry Darling. I came by to remind you of dinner and I must have forgotten to knock. Since I have done what I came here to do if you would excuse me.” She said almost bolting out the door before I could even form a response.

“I... um... should go... bye.” Applejack stammered out before following suit. Seriously, what the fuck is wrong with these ponies that they can't have proper manners. Especially not to burst in or eavesdrop. After a bit I got myself dressed after magically cleaning my cloak and armor. Stepping out of the room into the hall and started walking around. Mainly because I didn't know where the mess hall was. So I just walked and walked, and in doing so I found a few things. One being a science lab and not a full-sized one, just one to fit in the small room. The other was what looks like a doctor's office or at least a medical room. After a few more open doors which looked like private rooms till I found the mess hall. Stepping in I saw for the most part standard fair. A few tables including a large on. Each of them having four and more chairs for each one of them. On one wall was a set of counters with what looks like a coffee maker, a french press, a teapot, and a rack with an assortment of mugs and cups.

To the right looks like a serving line that is like those in a school cafeteria that leads into what I could guess is a kitchen. The problem was that I couldn't see much as there was too much steam to even see into it. Finding myself a seat in the corner I sat down and waiting as I pull out the book again. What I could tell that this universe Celestia had been gathering and storing magical artifacts that she's found or 'obtained'. She then began storing them in a vault of such. The book I grabbed had catalog every artifact that she's found. Sadly not any full description of it or the location of the said vault. From what I can gather the vault itself is on the move as well. So finding the location of it is going to be a rather big headache itself. As I looked over a few more pages, something caught my eye. Looking up I saw a rather large dragon-like figure. Unlike those from my universe, this one took a more anthropomorphic in form. He stood there in a dark purple zip-up vest with a green strip horizontally across it. Under it was a white shirt that went all the way up to his claws. He was wearing Darker purple dress pants with a set of black shoes. All to cover up his light purple scales with green fin-like scales. He turned to look at me with his emerald green eyes that looked very pissed off. He started to head towards me as I groaned in annoyance. Sliding the book away, I prepared for whatever hot mess was about to be dropped into my lap.

“You.” The dragon said as he slammed his claws on the table with a loud thump. Watching him I could see how angry he was as his tail which lead up into a match light purple spade was curved up. If you don't know about the bodily signals that one gives you can mentally fight against it.

“Spike I'm not after Rarity so you can calm down,” I said rather bluntly. That got him to step back in surprised blushing rather red.

“I... what... how did... I... I...” He began to stammer at my sudden derailment of his anger.

“Don't worry, your secret is safe with me.” I said turning my right claw over in an 'its okay' gesture. He eyed me for a moment before sitting down across from me.

“Who are you?”

“Nera-”

“Let me rephrase that. Why is there another dragon on this ship?” He asked and I groaned a little.

“Half dragon.” I answered.

“Half?”

“I'm what is called a Drony. Half pony, and half dragon.”

“Bullshit, prove it.” Giving him an annoyed sigh, I waved a hand over my mask and the lower half disappeared. With a deep breath I shot out a deep ruby red flame only a few feet. After a burn of a few seconds I stopped and let out a little bit of smoke.

“Is that proof enough of it?” I asked as the bottom half of the mask reappeared. The look on his face was fucking priceless. He just stood there wide-eyed and mouth open wide, like he was trying to catch flies. “I'll take that as a yes.” There was a few moments of silence between the two of us.

“Spike, may I ask you a question?”

“Um... sure?” He said shaking his head in surprise.

“Something's been bugging me, what's the whole deal here?” I asked intertwining my claws together on the table.

“What do you mean the whole deal here?”

“How did a fashionista, a farm mare, a student of knowledge, an animal lover, a party pony, stunt flying punk, and a dragon assistant all work on the same ship transporting goods?” I asked as I know I was playing a very dangerous hand with my knowledge.

“How did you know I use to be an assistant?” He asked looking angry.

“Because somethings never leave us. I see the pack of pens you have in your vest pocket as well as the small pad of paper. For quick notes, if need be. If I had to guess, your a more claw fighter but you keep a knife just in case that you keep in your left pocket. The same kind of knife that could easily break the seal or envelopes for official business. Just to name a few things.” I watched as Spike reached into said pockets pulling out the items I had listed. Setting them on the table.

“How did you know these were in my pockets?”

“Observations Spike. Your approach gave me enough time to view it to know you. The reason I figured your a more claw fighter is because you keep your claws rather sharp. Which can be hard to do if you don't have at least an enchanted file to help get through the scale covering.” I raised my left claw up to show them be rather sharp. Mostly because Twilight likes how deep my claws can dig into her fur to get the right spot. That and the fact that a sharp claw makes a good wine bottle opener, but I digress. “So my question?”

That's when this bomb got dropped on me. Up to a point, my universe and this one had the same set of events. The only difference was the fact that Nightmare Moon didn't happen so while Twilight was training with Celestia. Luna was also helping as well as deal with her duties. While still, young Twilight moved to Ponyville when it was still a place but Spike stayed at the castle. Mostly because he was too young at the time. He helped with day to day dealings till one point when he saw the darker side of Celestia. Not going into details of how he said he was too scared to stay there. So moving in with Twilight's parents who didn't move with her for reasons. He continued to help around till he was old enough to find work himself.

During that time the events that lead into the flooding and Luna's foalnapping happened. From there he helped with the construction of the slums. Hence why he was rather muscular then I had expected. After it was built he found a place and moved out. Since he worked in the High Quarter he was able to work back and forth between the two quarters. That was till one day when his employer sent him off on a job that required him to travel. In the course of that trip, the ship he was on was struck by pirates. He and most of the crew was sent overboard before the ship itself was raided then blown up. Leaving them stranded and alone at sea. Around that time Rarity came up with her ship helping those in need. What wasn't said at the time that the remainder of the ship was hers to salvage for parts.

In that time Twilight and Spike reconnected, this lead to him offering his services to Rarity and that's how they met up. What he was told me, Twilight had explained that when the first waves hit. Rarity a friend she made while in Ponyville offered her boat to every pony she could. Most of Ponyville took up the offer including the crew that was currently on the ship. They worked as a mostly salvage crew as well as a cargo ship. The contents of that cargo could be questionable at times, but it still worked. At this point, this left us to now, as he had thanked me for saving Luna. Someone who he also had a connection with before her disappearance. Sitting there Spike and I continued to talk about it when the door leading into the kitchen burst opened to show a bright bubblegum pink mare with a very bushy while very untamed. Standing there in only an apron pushing a massive tray of food. The problem with the apron is that it really doesn't leave anything to the imagination and with how large her um... assets were. Let's just say full-size watermelons would be jealous. Regardless Spike and I had the same reaction, a massive bright blush.

“Pinkie will you put on some clothes!” Spike said as he was bright red. I was at a loss for words as I couldn't take my eyes off of Pinkie as she 'bounced' around as she did. Oh god, if my Twilight was here, I know she would have pulled my ear for this.

“What is with you stallions?” Moon commented.

“What can I say, we are stallions.” Shadow shot back.

“Oh come on Spiky. I can't properly move around if I was bound by such restrictive clothing if I'm to cook a fantasta-wasta meal!” Pinkie said as she set the larger table with what looked like a buffet, all of it pony safe from the look of it. From what I could see that salad was the appetizer, next was to follow by some kind of soup. If I had to guess it was probably a vegetable broth-based one. The mane course looks like pasta, with a different verity of sauces.

“Pinkie Darling that is not how a lady is supposed to dress in front of a gentle stallion and drakes.” Rarity coming in with an outfit before she picked up said mare. She then pulled her into the kitchen and thank god, I didn't know how much longer I could last if Pinkie in this world was a nudist. I think I would be in mental danger. Shortly after Rarity entered and left with Pinkie, Applejack came in with Dash shortly after. Dash, in this case, had her arm in a sling. As soon as her eyes fell on me, her rather happy smile turned into a glare with such venom it would have killed me right there.

She went over to the table, and Spike joined them. After a few minutes, I decided to sit down and waited. Rarity and Pinkie came back after a few minutes right when Twilight stepped in. The latter of the three came in wearing her lab coat still. So that's Pinkie, Rarity, Twilight, Dash, Applejack, and Spike all here, that only leaves Luna and Fluttershy to join the party. As if on mental cue, Luna came in followed by Fluttershy and oh god if Pinkie had assents. Fluttershy had a freaking monopoly in the chest department. All contained within a very baggy blue knitted sweater that was closer to a knitted dress. Complete with long sleeves that one could easily hide one's hands in. Her mane covered her face much as I see in my universe Fluttershy. Stepping in she went to a seat closer to Dash as she looked like she was fretting over Dash's arm. Waving her off with her off-hand looked annoyed at her friend.

“I'm fine Fluttershy.” Dash groaned.

“But Dash it could get worse if you aren't careful,” Fluttershy said.

“Sugarcube, you know Dash is too hard-headed to let a broken arm keep her grounded. So why don't you give it a rest before you twist yourself up like a lasso knot.” Applejack said leaning on the back to legs of her chair as she used her hat to fan herself.

“Let us enjoy this meal before it gets cold,” Twilight said before digging into her salad with a rather swift stab of her fork. Dash started right after she made sure I was looking at her as she pieced a cherry tomato-like she pictured that tomato was my heart. Waving my hand over the bottom of the mask, it disappeared as if I had just wiped the mask away. The salad itself wasn't too bad, just something about it seemed off. It could be that my taste buds aren't compatible with the food here, and so that it leaves everything muted in a way. The same with the soup and the pasta. All the while, I listened to all of them talk with each other. Dash and Applejack were talking about the Wonderbolts, which seems to be a mixture of stunt fliers and erotic dancers. Twilight was talking to Rarity about Luna and the ship. Pinkie was being Pinkie talking about anything and everything, which her current topic was about oatmeal. Fluttershy was remaining silent as well as Spike who was just watching everyone talk as heat. Luna was looking me up and down curiously as I just ate. Which went on for a while, as I was digging into pasta when things changed.

“Nerada was it?” Twilight started eyeing me. “What's with the mask?”

“Depends on what you're inquiring about regarding it Twilight Sparkle.” I answered before getting up to refill my drink.

“The bottom half of your mask is currently missing even when I saw it earlier that mask was whole. Not counting that it's clearly magical but I'm unable to sense any kind of magic from it.” She pointed out.

“Ah, that,” I said coming back with my cup of tea after I poured a little lemon into it. “The answer to that is rather simple, it's an untraceable kind of magic if you're not looking for it.” Sitting back down I took a sip of my drink.

“How?”

“How is anything done? Someone invented it.” I answered with a smirk before sipping my steaming cup of tea. “Before you ask, I'm not divulging that secret as it's not mine to share.”

“Then how can we trust some pony like you?” She asked and I could tell she was angry. Something this Twilight shared with mine is that if they didn't get their answer when they aggressive about it. My Twilight did that when things didn't add up with Chrysalis changed into Cadence for her wedding. If this is going to go the way I think it is then I'm about to deal with a raging Twi-storm coming.

“If you must have the truth, then the mask itself uses Chaotic magic. Something that even Celestia can't stop when in place.” That got all of them to stop and look at me, that's before I saw a few of Twilight's hairs start to spring out of place.

“That's impossible!” She yelled.

“You mean like how it's impossible for me to remove your magical device that is supposed to suppress my magic without you knowing?” I asked with a smirk on my face she could see.

“Exactly tha-” She got out before she saw my tail come up with her device on it.

“Nothing is impossible,” I answered, but I did say I would keep this one me. “As a friend told me, regardless of how big you think you are. There is always someone bigger, smarter, or more magical then you.”

“How?!”

“Magic.” I couldn't help but give a smug smirk and I could see a few more hairs start to spring out of place.

“Twilight Darling, you need to calm down. We don't need another meltdown on board.” Rarity commented.

“Yeah, sugar-cube. He's just trying to rial you up and by the look of it, doing a good job of it.” Applejack tacked on giving me the stink eye.

“I want to know how,” Twilight said getting up and tries to magically lift me.

“If you were smart, I wouldn't try that,” I commented as I began to take a defensive stance.

“Your not going to do anything, your in a room full of ponies and I can tell you at least four of us are armed,” Twilight said walking over to me.

“Would you bet their lives on that?” I asked not losing my smirk. That got her to stop for a moment before she pulled out a pistol. It looked like a laser pistol straight out of a Fallout game. She pointed it at me.

“I wouldn't move a muscle.” She said with as her grin started to turn manic. Oh, I know that look. She just flipped into crazy Twi mode.

“Hate to burst your bubble, but Shadow,” I said as the bottom of the mask faded in as the smile and eyes began to glow red. In seconds my shadow spread out and shot up and formed claws above everyone's head but Luna's. “Now I would suggest you drop the gun.” She turned and saw what happened.

“How?” She asked as I could see all of the vinegar just leave her. Her gun dropped to the floor with a clang. Shadow picked up the gun and brought it to me.

“Because like I said, there is always someone better than you.” Shadow pulled back into my shadow as I sat down. “As for everyone else, I'm a simple being. Don't threaten me, and I won't return the favor.” Everyone stared at me and Twilight as she stood there as I could see the fear on her face. As well as the fear in just about everyone eases eyes. Well... all but Pinkie who I guess figured out already that I wouldn't hurt anyone unless I was attacked. “Now, in the sense of fairness.” Reaching up I pulled off the mask and slide it into a portal. They all continue to stare at me as this confirmed that I didn't look like them. “I know, I don't look like a normal pony. I'm what's called a drony. Part pony, and part dragon.”

“I've never heard of some... one like that.” Rarity said and I could see she's trying to be tactful, while still scared.

“Because we like to keep ourselves hidden. In my case, I wear a mask so I can go about it.”

“And that strange magic?”

“Dronies have a different kind of magic. Depending on the type they are will depend on what kind of magic. I'm a special kind as I am an elemental drony. I specialize in all kinds of magic and that includes chaotic and shadow magic.”

“How were you able to know that your this specialty?” Twilight asked sitting down.

“Dumb luck to be honest and a lot of trial and error,” I answered with a shrug.

“That's dangerous.”

“You have no idea how true that is.” I said pulling out my prosthetic from my cloak. “This was from a spell backfired and now there is no way to regrow it magically. So now I have a reminder of how dangerous magic is if you don't know. But I also have got a new understanding of it.”

“That's just insane!” Twilight said standing back up before anything else can be said a voice range out.

“This is the Celestia Guard, prepare to be boarded for a surprise inspection.” Said a rather gruff voice that boomed throughout the ship. Kind of reminded me of the Royal Canterlot Voice.

“Oh, hay baskets.” Applejack said getting up.

“Keep calm everypony, we know the drill.” Rarity said also getting up as the rest of them did. “Luna, Nerada.” She continued looking around. “Follow Dash down to the hold. She will point out a special compartment that both of you can hide in.”

“Do I have to Rarity?” Dash whined.

“Dash this is not the time.” Rarity said running out of the room with most of them. Pinkie went around and picked up the dishes as Fluttershy helped.

Dash groaned a bit before looking at Luna and I. “Come on you two, I'll show you the way.” She said leading us out of the room. Back down to the haul and into the back corner. She then pulled out a crowbar and then with a jammed it into a small hole that was around the support bar that went a few feet from the wall. At that moment a small door slid open to show a small panic room that both Luna and I entered. Dash motioned for both of us to remain silent as she shut the door.

The room itself was rather simple. The room had shelves with a mixture of drinks and simple foods. Looking around the gray-blue painted wall I saw a set of monitors that showed a lot of the ship as we saw what happened. A large heavy cruiser pulled up and dwarfed 'The Royal Blue' as I could see the 'ESS Sunshot' painted on the side. Rarity walked up on deck to great the four pegasi and two unicorns that descended onto the ship. Sadly I couldn't tell the colors as the screen was grayscaled. They descended into the halls as I watched them do a methodical search, that reminds me of a military standard pattern. Making sure that each room was done in a two or three pony teams leaving the other two in the hall. One was looking over a clipboard that I could only guess was a manifest. Room by room Luna and I watched them get closer and closer. Pulling out the mask, I slide it back on as a means to prepare myself. When they got back down to the cargo hold, they began to open and search each one of the creates and shipping containers. When one of them began to knock on the walls of the cargo hall, that got the hairs on the back of my neck to stand on end. Every so often, all I could hear was a knock-knock. It started from the far end of the room, as it just got closer and closer. Just knock, knock. Foot by foot I could hear the solid wall reverberating back till it hit the corner of the safe room as the first hallow hit can be heard.

“What's behind this wall?” Said a voice on the other side of the wall. Luna looked ready to fight as I had to began to prepare myself.

“Just some mechanical things, I wouldn't know as I'm not the ship's mechanic.” Rarity said and I will give her this, it was a well-constructed lie that she believed or at least she portrayed that she believed.

“We are going to have to check for ourselves.” The voice said as on guard went with Rarity to talk to whoever was the mechanic. Two of the other guards stayed behind and a few feet away from the wall.

“Think we should try opening it ourselves?” Said one of the other guards the unicorn. The other one nodded as he turned around and I could see them look for the seem of the door itself. Which would be hard to do, as even I couldn't see it. Either it's hidden magically or an expert in his craft did too good of a job. Don't know what was going to get to me first, the worry about what they may try to do when they see both Luna and I in here or what I may do. From the groan of the metal as we watched an aura appeared around the door. They were going to brute force it opens, fucking lovely. I put Luna behind me as I prepared. First, it was a soft groan of metal as they started with minimal force. Then I could tell from the heavy groan that almost echoed in the room as they applied as much force as they can. Even the pegasus guard was grabbing the edge that had began to buckle to pull. Taking a slow deep breath I whispered one thing.

“Here... We... Go...”

[End of Chapter]

Author's Note

Insert Dramatic Music Here
Tee Hee!