This story is a prequel to To Love a Hybrid. It is not necessary to have read this beforehand to understand this one. Also, rated M for mature content in later chapters, though they won't be the main focus in the story.

The Badlands, which lie at the border of Equestria, have always been considered a hostile territory. When a squad of Royal Guards are sent past the border to patrol the area for safety measures, one of them discovers a strange and never before seen specimen, weak and famished by all means. Out of pity, he goes against the protocol and discreetly brings the creature back home to nurse it back to health.

As the days in the strange pony’s company pass, Thunderbolt will see that something sweet and fragile lies hidden under its hybridity, and will do whatever it takes to protect it, even at the risk of losing his status as a Royal Guard.