The Harmony Of Equestria

by Celestial Nyx Nova

Rating: mature
Tags: Adventure, Human, Romance
Length: 43184

Here entails my life In this world and what I do to protect It.

Not so long ago, I was an ordinary teenager In Detroit: nothing special has ever happened to me until one I was fed up with the world. It all started that faithful day I got on that bus and woke up In a meadow In Equestria of all places. Being truly at home, I realized my difference: I am a defender of my home. Now the time to prove myself has come with a bumpy road ahead.

Published 1970-01-01 00:00:00 UTC
Last updated 2015-05-14 03:39:22 UTC

Lesson Zero.2

Ponyville, 9:00 AM:

This feeling Is wonderful, but as to the nature of what I'm touching: Soft, plump and has a tail? Oh right! That's just my marefriend, Twilight Sparkle snuggling with me In bed. Right now I merely basked In all the features of her body: Her lavender hair, soft coat, and small rump.

Now's not the best time to be a perv, maybe later: besides there Is something that has to be taken care of that a stern talking to will be avoided. See that's one quirk with Twi she takes very seriously: order, so to speak. This mare has my eternal love, however everyone or pony needs a slight break or risk changing their whole routine to suit them.  I have yet to Introduce myself: Jamir johnson, but jay Is fine. Only man to ever live In a place like this, while there Is a 2nd. A few months ago, Discord: the representation of chaos escaped from his stone prison and wrecked havoc on Equestria. But I wasn't about to let that happen as I personally had business with him since somehow he sent me here. Arming myself and acquiring the Element of Will, Hate, and Retribution, I was ready to face him. But with him being the trickster he was made out to be, he made us go through various tests. Getting a shot at him alone, my chance was not wasted.

I had him on the ropes until he pulled some 2nd rate cheap shot and showed a type of dream world about events In the past. The best of all of this was when attempted to Destroy Equestria with one of StarSwirl the bearded's unfinished spells. I, of course stopped him but, In a way that Is still unclear to me: He torn my Imaginary friend from out of me: Literally. So while by secondary means, me and my best friend known as Frank Graffias are the only 2 humans here.

Right now I am walking downstairs to the kitchen when the scent of food hit my nose.

''Morning, Jamir.'' Spike called, still In that frilly apron. ''Breakfast Is done.''

''Music to my ears.'' I took a seat.

The little Drake In front of me may seem weak. but after a few months training with me, this little guy Is nobody to mess with. One day after gauging his reaction to a dangerous situation, I took up the task of giving him the know-how to fight. While still a child, he shouldn't have to worry about fighting, though It pays to be prepared.

''So what are you up today?'' I was curious.

''Gotta help Twilight do her monthly checklist assessment.'' He groaned.

''Why does she even do that? Twilight has to be the most organized pony I know.'' I missed the point.

''Don't know what to tell you.'' He proceeded to the living room.

Finishing up my eggs, I got up and followed him, Intent on seeing just how this whole procedure goes down.

Seeing a stack of paper, three Ink bottles, four quills, and a Baby Dragon holding a piece of parchment and quill, this seemed ok.

''Is that everything on the checklist?'' Twilight asked.

''Yep.'' He answered.

''Okay then, Now that we've completed the checklist of things we need to create a checklist, we can make my checklist of the things I have to get done by the end of the day. Ready?''

''Ready.''

''Item one: Create checklist of the things I have to accomplish by the end of the day.'' She said.

''Ugh.'' Me and Spike groaned.

''Check.'' He said.

Well, this Is just peachy: maybe the pace will pick up a little Instead of It just being this and that.

Time Skip: 25 minutes later:

Deciding to tag along on this little excursion, It was mostly retrieve this or return that, but my day brightened when I saw Frank In the shopping district talking with Lavender?... Oh this merits some teasing. Walking over her diner: Dine Town I said: ''Well, look at the 2 lovebirds having a good time.'' I smiled.

''Wha-no It's not like that!'' Lavender stuttered.

''Y-Yea, I-have no Idea what you're talking about.'' Frank looked away.

''Mind If I steal your future husband from you?'' I asked.

''It's not like that!, We're just good friend!'' She urged.

''Sure, come on man, we gotta talk.'' I pulled him away.

''So what's up?'' he asked.

''Oh nothing, just seeing that you're making a move on Lavender you sly devil.'' I laughed.

''Well, what do you expect? She's an amazing mare: kind, open, beautiful, everything I could ever hope to have In a human girl.'' He admitted.

''Ask her out?''

''I can't do that! I'm not dressed properly, where would we go, would she say yes, what-mmph!'' I put a hand over his mouth.

''I'm seeing this.'' I motioned him yapping. '' But you're not doing this.'' I motioned asking someone out.

''But how?'' He mumbled.

''Just do whatever you feel Is natural: you do like her, don't you?''

''Yea.''

''Then what are you waiting for? Go get her!'' I brought him back over to Lavender, who was blushing a bit.

''Excuse me, I believe my friend here has something he wants to ask you.'' I put my hand around the back of his neck, he's shorter than me, so It's easy.

''I-um want to, how do I say this? Oww!'' I squeezed his neck. ''Will you go out with me?'' He asked.

''Really?-I mean, yes Of course. I'd love that.'' She responded.

Finding that to enough to go on, I scurried back to Twi and Spike heading In Sugarcube Corner.

''Uh, I only ordered 12.'' Twilight eyed the box of cupcakes.

''Oh I know, dearie, but I had an extra so I thought I would make It a baker's dozen.'' Mrs. Cake said.

Spike looked like he wanted to devour that whole box, but Twilight threw him back with her magic, me setting him down with mine.

After a quick discussion about extra frosting and unfairness In sharing, she decided to fix the matter.

''Not to worry, I'll just move some of them around.'' She got to work.

Not to be like that, but the way she did It made me have a new perspective on the word: neat freak.

Seeing Spike getting covered In frosting made me laugh a little. Heading back to the library, I found that to be a pretty alright day.

Walking In, Twilight asked Spike to triple check the checklist to make sure nothing was missed.

''Good thing we don't have anything to report to Princess Celestia this week... I don't think I could write another word!'' Spike put his claw In a cast.

Twi dropped the cupcake she was holding as If she had just heard the worst news ever.

''We haven't sent princess Celestia a letter this week?!'' She asked.

''Is that bad?'' Me and Spike asked.

''Of course It's bad! I'm supposed to send Princess Celestia a letter every week, telling her about a lesson I've learned about friendship! Not every other week, not every ten days, every... single... week!'' She probed Spike's chest.

Searching around for her calendar, Spike found It and found his face meeting the wooden podium as she checked the date.

''NONONO! this Is bad! If I don't send her a letter by sundown, I'll be tardy!'' She yelled.

''Say what?'' Spike was confused.

''Late!, I'll be late!'' Twi flopped on the bed.

After a short conversation of possible outcomes such as Magic Kindergarten and being sent back a few years, I tried to calm her down before something happened.

''Okay, let's slow down and take this with a grain of salt: If I know Celestia, which I do: she won't care about one missed deadline.'' I reasoned.

''You're right. I have no reason to worry. Because I'm going to solve a friend's problem and get that letter to Princess Celestia before sundown!'' She realized.

''Ugh.'' I said.

''So... got any problems, troubles, conundrums, or any other sort of issues, major or minor, that I as a good friend could help you solve?'' She asked us.

''Nope.'' We said.

''Then it looks like I'm going to have to find somepony who does.'' She went off.

''This won't end well.'' Spike said.

''And It appears that I'll have to make sure nothing blows up.'' I followed after her.

''Twilight, wait up!'' I jumped downstairs.

''Don't you think that this Is a little far-fetched? It's just a friendship letter.''

''It's not just a letter, more of a priority to do this.'' She was determined.

Trying to find another way yo go about this, a shrill yell was heard In the distance.

''Rarity!'' Twi sped off to the boutique,  me staying close on her tail.

Bucking the door open, we looked around for any signs of trouble, having my gun-tonfa ready.

''What's wrong?'' She asked.

''I've lost my diamond-encrusted purple ribbon! How can I finish my latest creation If I can't find It?'' Rarity asked.

''Never fear Rarity, as your friend I'll do my best to help you-''Found It.'' I saw the small ribbon under some cloth.

''So... you just lost your ribbon?''

''Mm-hm!''

''And now It's found?''

''Yuh-huh!''

''And nothing else is bothering you? Nothing that I, as a good friend could help you with?'' Twi asked.

After finding her ribbon and measuring tape, Twi looked a little disappointed.

''No need to panic. Rarity Is just one pony. I'm sure one of my other friends will need me.''

She certainly has resolve, were she had nothing else as we continued on for a few minutes until I spied a flying piece of wood almost struck us.

''What the hell, man?'' I voiced my complaint.

Looking ahead, the remains of a barn was currently being torn apart by a pissed off Rainbow Dash.

Seeing this as a type of hostile situation, she was suddenly stopped by a purple field of magic.

''Rainbow Dash, stop!''

''Rainbow, I know you must be angry with Applejack!  You must hate her guts, but worry not: as your friends, we'll help you resolve your problems.'' She said.

''Uh, what Is she talking about?'' Rainbow asked me.

''Something about trying to make sure she can send a friendship letter to the princess.'' I groaned.

Getting Rainbow to sit on a bench and putting her hair up In a bun, Twi got a notepad and quill and began to ask questions.

''I don't have any Issues with Applejack.'' Rainbow looked confused.

''Then why destroy her property?''

''Because she asked me, right Applejack?'' She asked.

''Yes, ma'am. I wanted to put up a new barn, but this one's gotta come down first. Hehe. Now get back to it, R.D.'' Replied Aj from a ditch.

''On It!' She took to the skies.

''Ah'd take cover If ah were you two.'' She had a helmet on, why?

Looking up, she went Into a dive position, going for something.

''Uh-oh, Twi. get down.'' I jumped In the ditch, Twi following suit.

''RAHHHHH!'' The cyan mare yelled, forming a rainbow mushroom cloud.

''Okay, that went peachy.'' I brushed off some of the debris as we walked off.

Let's see: so far we've been through Rarity, and Rainbow: Now we're trying a different venue.

''I can't believe we wasted all that time. we should have just come here first. Fluttershy always has some fear she's trying to get over. As a good friend,  we'll be able to help her.'' Twi said.

I didn't know what to say at this point: you can't stop a determined Twilight. Trust me, I know.

Heading over to Fluttershy's cottage, we headed to back and laid our eyes upon something as questioning as It was awesome. Fluttershy was um, oh how do I say this without sounding blunt? She pretty much just powned a bear and snapped It's neck. Yea, not sure what to feel about that.

''How can this happening? all of the days she had to stop being a  scaredy-pony, she had to pick today! What am I going to do?'' She walked away, a crazed look on her face.

With that, this day has taken a turn that I'm not proud of.

Time Skip: 5 minutes later:

''Uh, Twi you doing okay?'' I looked over at the pony on the bench, curled up In the fetal position and crying.

''It's fine, It'll all be fine, the day Isn't over yet: But It will be over soon!'' She looked to the sun. Tick.

''Ugh'' She said.

''It'll be all over! My time in Ponyville! My advanced studies! Nono. You're a good student. You can do this.'' She looked at her reflection from crying so much.

''Um, I'm here, aren't I?'' I carefully pegged.

''Are you talking to...yourself?'' Spike showed up with a pink box.

But she just kept talking to herself, oblivious to our presence.

''SNAP OUT OF IT!'' Spike yelled.

Twi shook her head and looked around: ''Huh?''

''Are you okay?'' Spike worried.

''Wouldn't use okay as a base word.''

''Twilight, I'm really worried. I mean this letter thing Is really getting to you. Here. You've been so anxious all day that you completely forgot about the picnic. Why don't you just relax and go hang out with--''The Pinic!'' Twi Interrupted, taking the box from his grip.

''I should see my friends!'' She galloped off.

''Glad to see you've come to your senses.'' Spike said.

Yea, somehow I'm not 100% on this, so I'm gonna go with her: I was Invited anyways.

Time Skip: 5 minutes later:

A small picnic, nothing too fancy was on the hill In front of us, Twilight looking very anxious.

Spotting all the girls there, and Rainbow wearing some sick shades when Twilight dropped the box down.

''Are you alright sugarcube?'' Aj asked.

''No! I am not alright.'' She said.

A collective gasp from the girls came as they tried to make heads or tails of the problem.

''It's just awful.''

''Yes?'' The girls asked.

''Just terrible.''

''Yes?''

''It's the most horrific trouble I've ever been In and I really really really need your help!'' She pleaded.

''Yes?!''

''My friendship letter to the Princess Is almost overdue, and I've learned nothing about friendship!''

''Oh thank goodness, I thought something really awful had happened.'' Flutters said.

''Something awful has happened! If I don't turn in the letter on time, I'll be tardy! TARDY!'' She yelled.

The girls all giggled at the way she was acting and I did: she was taking this out of proportions.

''No offense, but It looks like somepony's gettin' themselves all worked up over nothing.'' AJ said.

''This Is not a joke, I have to get a friendship letter to the Princess before sundown, my whole life depends on It!'' She got In Pinkie's face.

''Oh, Twilight: you're such a crack up!'' Pinkie said.

''Come on now, have a seat and stop sweating the small stuff.'' Aj offered. Sweet, I could use a snack, what? following her around works up an appetite.

''Ugh!'' Twi yelled. ''Ughhhhhh!'' She teleported away.

''Wow, I've never seen her this upset.'' Fluttershy look amazed.

''What a drama queen.'' Rarity said from the couch. We looked at her. ''Relatively speaking.'' She blushed.

This can not be good. Twi Is really good with magic: hell It's her element, but I am more concerned with her mental state and her magic counteracting each other. I got up and went to the one place she would have to be.

Time Skip: 10 minutes later:

''Clock's ticking Twilight, clock Is ticking!'' I heard Twi mutter to herself.

''Been said once, but I'll say It again: you're worrying about nothing, I'm sure Celestia wouldn't even care about the deadline.'' I reasoned.

''If I can't find a friendship problem...I'll make a friendship problem!'' Twi paid me no attention as she descended down the stairs.

Sighing as I sat down, I thought about what goes through that mare's mind at times: I love her unconditionally, but she Is just stubborn. Seeing Spike write something down on a scroll, my curiosity took over.

''And what are you doing?'' Was my question.

''Since Twilight refuses to listen to reason, I'm writing the one pony who can make her see what she's doing to herself: and her friends.'' He responded.

But why ask Celestia for assistance? This little Issue hasn't fall to shambles yet, though a firm hoof may be required. Going over to lend a hand with the letter, we wrote to Canterlot and hoped to fix this. After about 15 minutes of revising certain words, Spike had just sent the letter off when a fierce knocking told us of someone's presence. Opening the door, Rainbow and Pinkie were looking kinda scared.

''Jamir, come quick, we have a bit of a problem!'' Rainbow yelled.

''Spike, stay here.'' I told the drake as we sped off to the disturbance.

In a few minutes, we came upon the place where Twilight had her mini rant, but a lot was wrong with this picture. The whole town was fighting one another, kicking and biting and over. a. doll.

''That's It, I have seen the light.'' I threw my hands up.

''Come on!'' Pinkie led me to the rest of the girls and Frank.

''Just what the hell happened?'' I asked.

''I had to do something: I thought If I couldn't find a problem, I'd make one! The day Is almost over!'' Twi said.

''Not almost.'' Frank said, looking at the sun set.

A bright light engulfed us from above and an angry voice sounded: ''Twilight Sparkle!''

''Oh shit, Celestia.'' Frank looked worried as the princess landed right In front of us after calling the town down.

This Is good, well not how the situation Is presented, but this can be turned around.

''Tia, I know this looks like-she held a hoof In the air, then pointed It to Twilight.

''Meet me In the library.'' She flew off.

Twilight looked sullen at the announcement. ''Goodbye guys, If you care to visit: I'll be In magic kindergarten, back In Canterlot.'' She slowly walked away.

''Hold the door, what did she mean kindergarten? Magic one at that?'' Frank looked visibly shook up.

''Twi's had this mindset that should she not turn In the letter on time that Celestia would do something like this.'' I shook my head.

''We're never gonna see Twilight again!'' Pinkie cried.

''Now what?'' Aj voiced our question.

''Of all the worst things that could happen, this Is THE. WORST. POSSIBLE. THING!'' Rarity over emphasized.

''What? I really mean It.''

''Not gonna lose our friend over this, plus I had an agreement with Celestia: No punishment. Come on, let's go and make this right!'' We headed to the library.

Time Skip: 5 minutes later:

Not bothering to stop, I pushed the door open and saw  Spike looking around a bookcase, holding his tail.

''And just what are you doing?'' I asked.

He pointed over to Celestia looming over Twilight with a disappointed look on her face.

''This ends now.'' I thought, but Frank beat me the punch.

''Hey! Hold It right there!'' He pointed a finger In their general direction.

Sighing, I walked past and tripped him. What? I love the guy to death, but he can be kinda of a jackass relating to little things.

''You can't punish her!''

''It wasn't her fault!'' Aj and Pinkie said.

''I'm listening.'' Celestia looked Impatient.

''Please, your Highness. We all saw that Twilight was upset.''

''But we thought that the thing she was worrying about wasn't worth the trouble.''

''So when she ran off all worked up, not a single one of us tried to stop her.''

''As Twilight's good friends, we should have taken her feelings seriously and been there for her!''

''Please don't take her away from us just because we were to careless to help.'' Flutters said.

Celestia seemed to ponder the girl's choice of words as she spoke.

''Very well, I will overlook this on one condition.'' She bargained.

''Anything!'' We offered.

''From this day forth, I would like you all to report to me your findings on the magic of friendship, when, and only when, you happen to discover them.'' The princess flashed a smile at us.

We all cheered as Twi followed the princess out on the balcony.

''Princess Celestia, wait! How did you know I was in trouble?''

''Jamir and Spike made your problem of letting your fears get to you aware to me. I commend you both for taking your friend's feeling seriously. Now If you all excuse me, I must return to Canterlot: I'm expecting some mail.'' She snuck a kiss on the cheek and flew away.

''Ya heard her: Spike, take a letter.

We gathered around and sat, ready to deliver our own take on today's events.

''Dear, Princess Celestia...''

''We're writin' to you because today we all learned a little somethin' about friendship.''

''We learned that you should take your friends' worries seriously.''

''Even If you don't think that she has anything to worry about.''

''And that you shouldn't let your worries turn a small problem...''

''...Into an enormously huge entire-town-in-total-chaos Princess-has-to-come-and-save-the-day problem!''

''And no matter what: you should never look past a problem a friend may be having, especially If the power to fix It Is right In front of you.'' I finished.

''And don't piss off the wrong pony, or person In my case.'' Frank added In.

Laughing at his mild discomfort, this day was chalked up to be another In my life, and you know what? Wouldn't trade It for anything.

Fright Night!

We gain strength, and courage, and confidence by each experience in which we really stop to look fear in the face... we must do that which we think we cannot.

Eleanor Roosevelt.

''Will you guys hurry up?'' Spike grew Impatient of waiting.

''Yea, yea, we're coming: It takes time to look this grim, you know.'' I readjusted my shirt.

There's that one day of the year every kid will never get too tired or too old for: Halloween. Next to Christmas, this was another of my favored holidays. You get free candy, get to scare people, and the best part are the costumes you can wear. Apparently, Nightmare Night was a sorta downgraded version of Halloween, though Instead of eating the wonderful candy, It would be sacrificed to the statue of Nightmare moon. Ugh, It pains to say that word.

''Come on, now the time has come to enact my pent-up vengeance and jokes upon the general public!'' Frank yelled.

''In a moment, gotta make sure we look good.'' I checked the mirror.

Talking to Rarity about designing me and Frank's costume was pure genius: I have never looked so better since the first time I wore my suit.

Going for more of a laid back feature, he chose to go as Dracula. The whole ensemble was there down to the fangs and cape. The one thing that made me wonder was how did he get taller? I mean, I barely believed him when he went to Twilight for a height spell to not be treated so small even, the ponies wouldn't care. But somehow In the nick of time, she pulled off the spell and managed to give him a foot and 3 inches of height, so now he would come up to my to about my shoulder.

Twilight went as the ever so known Starswirl the bearded: Sporting a fake, but decent looking beard, cloak, and hat.

Spike went as, and It makes little sense to me: a dragon. That's like me going as myself. Not a very creative dragon.

Then It came down to me: my costume would be an Improvised one. I wore my black and gold fedora with a black dress shirt being worn over a long pocketed cloak with a hood: a pair of long black, thick biker pants, heavy black steel toe combat boots, and to finish It off, I was carrying both Monstrosities known the massive scythe as the vindicator and the spiked bat known as Excailbolg, the former being strapped to a holder that was secured on the lower part of my back.

''Are we ready?'' Spike tapped his foot.

''Relax Spike, I want to sink my fangs Into that juicy candy as you do but we do have to look presentable: only 2 humans, kinda representing our kind here.'' He motioned to me and him.

That was a vaild point he made. This Is our first holiday since coming here, and It would be wonderful to kick off the festivities right. A chance to be more like the local townsfolk.

Walking out to potentially wreak havoc on some unsuspecting ponies, our first stop was to head to a little shindig to start the night off.

Entering the town square, I looked upon the decorations and various costumes that the ponies and nodded. They have the spirit of all Hallow's eve down.

Eyeing Applejack dressed as a scarecrow, we headed over to the dunk tank.

''Happy Nightmare Night.'' Twi greeted.

''Howdy guys, nice outfits.'' AJ commented.

''Thanks, I'm a dragon!'' Spike puffed his chest out.

''She meant us: try and stay on the level.'' Frank huffed.

''Shoot, with that fancy getup, Ah'd figure you're one of them country music singers.'' Aj played with her beard.

''Well, I am known as the king of vampires: Dracula.''

''And my costume Is a little different, but takes after a mix of characters In history back on Earth: I call myself: Artorius.'' I decided.

Our fun was Interrupted by the sound of a thunderclap that shook up Spike.

''Rainbow Dash! why did you that?'' Twilight groaned.

''Lighten up, old-timer. This is the best night of the year for pranks!'' Rainbow laughed, wearing some type of dark outfit.

''Rainbow, you nearly gave the poor kid a heart attack, I mean look at him!'' Frank motioned to a slightly spazing dragon.

''It's all In good fun. Oh! Oh! There's another group over there!'' She took off with her cloud.

Now that Is In good fun, but never jump scare a timid person: you might end up regretting It.

We turned our eyes to the mayor giving a speech whilst being dressed as a clown?

''Now, all the little ponies who have been out collecting sweets should follow our friend Zecora to hear the legend of... Nightmare Moon!'' Mayor Mare spoke.

''Spooky voice might work better If she wasn't dressed like that.'' Spike complained.

Finding what she said to be Interesting, Not. A certain friend of mine came by to join us In our little celebration.

''Once every year, ponies 'shed' their skin, how have you, my friends been?'' Zecora asked.

''Alright, everything has been calm and dandy.'' I smiled.

Our conversation drifted back to Mayor Mare's topic when she offered us a chance to experience a part of Nightmare Night.

''Follow me, and very soon, you'll hear the tale of Nightmare Moon.'' She led us off.

Passing through a part of the Everfree that showed an easy view of the town, we saw a stone statue In front of us as Zecora spoke.

''Listen close, my little dears, I'll tell you where you got your fears of Nightmare Night, so dark and scary. Of Nightmare Moon, who makes you wary. Every year, we put on a disguise, to save ourselves from her searching eyes. But Nightmare Moon wants just one thing: to gobble up ponies in one quick swing!  Hungrily, she soars the sky. If she sees nopony, she passes by. So If she comes and all is clear, Equestria Is safe another year!'' She Informed us.

''But why?'' I asked, curious.

''A perfect question, my human friend. For Nightmare Moon you must not offend. Fill up her belly with a treat or two, so she won't return to come eat you!'' A dust specter of Nightmare Moon hit us.

''Everypony! Just dump some candy and get out of here!'' Pinkie yelled and took off, the other ponies doing the same.

''Hey! I was supposed to make you run and flee In terror! Zecora, you stole my job!'' Frank stomped his foot.

She chuckled as those of us who didn't flee stayed and looked at the sky turning awful darker than I would think It shouldn't.

''Okay, now what Is It?'' Twi asked.

Thunder and lighting filled the air as we took a few steps back as It started to rain somewhat, and by that I mean a lot.

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A figure showed Itself from the clouds as It descended down In the form of a carriage being pulled by 2 bat-like ponies, a another figure In a cloak riding It.

Stopping In the air, the figure jumped down, me having my bat at the ready. Pulling the hood back, It turned out to be Luna.

''Princess Luna!'' Twi sounded happy.

''Citizens of Ponyville! We have graced your tiny village with our presence, so that you might behold the real Princess of the Night! A creature of nightmares no longer, but instead a pony who desires your love and admiration! Together we shall change this dreadful celebration into a bright and glorious feast!'' She used the Royal Canterlot voice.

Having some time to meet and chat with her, the girls weren't as responsive as the remaining ponies fled at the sound of her voice.

''Might want to work on that.'' I smiled.

''Greetings, love: I trust you are enjoying tonight?'' She asked.

''Well, I am now.'' I gave her a kiss on the nose.

''But why dost thy friends leave so quickly?''

''Maybe because of your voice?'' Frank asked, to which I socked him In the stomach.

''How dare you strike your king down?''He held his sides.

''Only thing you're king of Is being a jackwagon...and being blunt as hell.'' I pinched my nose.

Shaking a certain thought of my head, we all headed back to town, Intent on making everypony see the truth about Luna.

Time Skip: 5 minutes later:

Going back to where we started: Luna tried to go about greetings In a way I preferred be not loud. That voice hurts your ears at close range.

''Madame Mayor, thy Princess of the Night hath arrived.'' She offered her hoof to the shaking mare. Then another one. Then another. Same response. Nothing but whimpers.

''What Is the matter with you? Very well, then. Be that way. We won't even bother with the traditional royal farewell!'' She walked away.

''Think we should talk to her?'' Frank pegged.

''We, and by we: I mean myself and Twilight should do that. You and Spike can try convince the town to change their opinion of her.'' I told him.

''Does this mean that?...''

''Yes, but nothing too much: do not want a heart attack victim.'' We walked off.

Following Luna, I shook my head at how the town was treating her because of what happened In the past. Whatever happens In the past should stay that way: especially be It a bad memory.

Coming back to the statue, Luna was sitting down, a sad look on her face. Going over and taking a seat next to her, I cleared my throat and said: ''Are you okay?''

She shook her head no and sighed. ''We should just face the facts, the ponies will never like us, they never have.''

'I think maybe just change your approach a bit, you might be met with a warmer reception.'' Twi smiled.

''How?''

''We could start with your voice, that could be a good place as any.''

''Ohhh. We have been locked away for a thousand years. We are... not sure we can.'' She spoke normally.

''Fluttershy might be able to help us out: she does have one of the sweetest voices.'' Twilight offered.

''Let's go then, I do want to get In scares before the the night Is over.'' We got up and moved.

Time Skip: 5 minutes:

Knocking on her door, Fluttershy must really take voice lesson when she can because my ears are ringing.

''Uh Fluttershy, It's me Twilight!''

The door opened and Flutters partially showed herself.

''It Is you. and Jamir. Oh and Princess Luna.'' She relaxed. ''What can I do for you?'' She smiled.

''Little bit of a predicament here: could you maybe be Luna's voice coach?' I asked.

''I don't see why not.''

''Shall our lessons begin?'' She used the voice again.

Fluttershy nodded.

''Shall we mimic thy voice?''

''Repeat after me: Hello, It's nice to meet you: I am Princess Luna.''

''Greetings: tis a pleasure to meet you: I am princess Luna!''

''Maybe turn It a notch down.'' Twi said.

''How...Is this?'' Her voice lowered some.

''Better. Right, Fluttershy?''

''Mmm-hmm.''

''And... how about now?'' She had a normal voice.

''Good job.'' I smiled.

''Thank you dearest Fluttershy: our new speaking voice shall surly win the affection of the villagers!'' She hugged her.

''Come on, let's go and show the town the truth.''

Heading back to town with some good news, we had a show to put on, well I did at least. Not letting a chance to scare someone pass me by.

Thinking of some Ideas to help Luna fit In, Twilight offered a valid Idea.

''My friend Applejack Is one of the most likable ponies around. I'm sure she'll have some Ideas.''

''I just hope that this works.'' I thought.

Twilight went over to Aj and tried to get some Ideas.

''All you gotta do Is have the right attitude. Loosen up a bit, be positive, play a few games, have some fun.'' She offered.

''And what exactly Is this fun you speak of?'' She was curious.

Following a demonstration of some simple games, Luna tried her hoof at spider tossing which she failed first time around.

''You can do It princess!'' Twilight urged.

She tried again and manged to land one on the net.

''Your princess enjoys this "fun"! In what other ways may we experience It?'' She asked.

''I have a few Ideas.'' A smile came upon my face.

Going with the flow of things, we tried pumpkin tossing though I put my on spin on It and played pumpkin ball. Having one launched at me, I swung my bat In a wild arc, sending bits of orange chunks of the vegetable flying.

''May I have a try?'' She looked happy.

''Go ahead.'' I went over and prepped a pumpkin.

''Here It comes!'' I launched the catapult.

Being away for 1000 years must have taken a toll on her since she looked absolutely cheerful when she blasted It to pieces.

''Hah! Are there any other ways to have ''fun?'' She asked.

''We could play one of my favorite games when I was a kid: Search and Destroy.'' I offered.

''And the rules are pretty simple: all you have to do assign teams of 4 or more, pick a leader and eliminate the opposing team's or flag.'' Frank added.

Time Skip: 10 minutes:

Here me and my team waited at our designated spot as our enemies waited at theirs. My team, or Alpha force consisted of: me, Spike, Pinkie, Frank, and Twilight while Luna's team, or Delta squad had: her, Applejack, Zecora, a colt named Pip, and by some last minute surprise, Azure dressed up as type of devil pony.

''So are we all clear on the plan?'' I double checked.

''Yea!'' My team responded.

Looking out the window of the library, I listened for anything sounding out of the ordinary. Nothing.

Our plan was pretty simple: Spike would perform recon while Pinkie went with me and used her Infamous 'Pinkie Sense' to let us know of any trouble. As for Twi and Frank: they had to stay behind to guard our flag.

Moving swiftly to avoid detection, Pinkie suddenly had a tail twitch and we barely dodged a meeting with a barrage of paint balloons. Looking at Aj and Pip being the culprits, we made a wild dash out of the crossfire.

''Get em'!'' Aj yelled from behind us.

Not paying them any attention as our objective was more Important at the moment.

''Come on, keep up!'' I called to Pinkie.

Seeing our scaly friend a few paces ahead of us, I asked for a sit rep.

''I see the princess Inside with the flag, but no clue where Azure and Zecora are.'' He shrugged his shoulders.

''They must be heading to the library, Aj and Pip was just a decoy to buy them time.'' I reasoned.

''What now?'' Pinkie asked.

So, they want to play like that, eh? Fight sly tricks with sly tricks. Time to hatch a plan.

''Pinkie,  when we go In you're gonna make a beeline for the flag while me and Spike'll cover you.''

Nodding at the Idea, we crept through the door and made our way to the roof.

With Frank and Twi:

Man, this has got to be the worst thing to be doing right now. I'm dressed up as the freaking king of Vampires, so why be here guarding a flag. Rather be causing some slight mayhem outside.

''Do you think they've gotten the flag yet?'' I sighed excessively.

Twilight was reading a book when she lifted her head up and said: ''Maybe, but we should check outside for any possible surprise moves.'' She moved to the window.

Tapping my foot In boredom, once again all that was saw outside was the same thing 2 minutes ago: nothing.

I was about to consider taking a damn nap when something flew through the window.

''And what Is that?'' Twi asked.

''Crude attempt at a stink bomb, but now back you-huh?'' The thing was stuck to my hand.

''Okay, this can not be-''Boom!'' A cloud of smoke filled the room.

''Who's there?'' Twi yelled.

''Protect the flag!'' I said.

The sound of hoofsteps  and magic led me to deduce that one of the Intruders was Azure. Making out a silhouette take the flag, I followed It out the door.

''Stop!''

Running after Azure, she's fast pony, that much I'll give her that. Just hope Jamir's gotten the flag by now.

Back to Jamir's group:

Moving ever so quietly, we made our way upstairs, but the girls thought of a lot of things as Pinkie and Spike were strung upside down by some rope. I however, managed to avoid getting caught.

''Hold on, I'll get you down.'' I said.

''No, just go for the flag: that's all that matters!'' Pinkie yelled.

Going to the roof, there Luna was, a arrangement of balloons behind her.

''So you have made It past my trap?'' She smiled.

''Yes, but now the time has come to take that flag off your hooves.''

''See If you can try!'' She taunted.

Running to the flag, Luna threw a few balloons to try and blind me, but I dodged a few of them while making my way to the objective.

Sidestepping her, I took the flag and declared: ''Win!''

''No!'' She yelled.

Relishing the feeling of winning, my subsequent victory dance was cut short by hearing Frank yelling at Azure: ''Stop! The king of Vampires commands you!''

Jumping down to try and stop her, which hurt my legs something fierce, something she threw obstructed my vision. Trying to find her, I got toppled to the ground.

''Ugh, we lost?''Frank asked.

''It would appear so.'' Azure laughed.

Guess you can't win em' all, least we had fun.

Time Skip: 10 minutes and a small cleanup later:

After that, we headed back over to the town center to enter In the 'best costume' contest, and not to jump the gun, but hopefully I'll get 1st.

Talking for a few minutes as we entered our slips, the mayor put the entries In a box and picked out 4 slips.

''Will Dracula, Starswirl the bearded, The dark mage, and Artorius please show up on stage?'' She asked.

''Prepare to lose, faker.'' Frank said.

''And how am I a faker?'' We made our way to the stage.

''Unlike you, my costume was not made up.''

''You're just jealous you couldn't think of this first.'' A snicker came from my lips.

''Now, If you can tell us a little about your costume, Mr.Dracula?''

''Thank you for asking: unlike that faker over there, my costume Is the great king of Vampires.''

''And what about you Starswirl the bearded?''

''I am better known as the father of the amniomorphic spell and have played many a part In making a bountiful number of spells that have Influenced the pony world.''

''Mr. Dark Mage?''

''...I am the dark mage...that's all.'' The cloaked pony said.

''Artorius?''

''My costume was Inspired by a few elements back on Earth: two of which stand out the most.''

''Well, everypony: who you think has the best costume?'' The mayor asked.

The crowd was silent for a second before a mix of 'Artorius' and 'Dracula' rang out.

''It appears we have a tie, one way to settle this would be to-''Look out!'' A random pony yelled.

A low moan emanated from the crowd as I heard a tinge of magic next to me. Looking over, the source turned to be that cloaked pony using his horn. The disturbance revealed Itself as a pack of-oh my goodness...u-undead...ponies?

''Oh shit.'' Frank said.

I could smell them from here: The torn flesh, Infected wounds, broken and mutilated bodies. I think one of the heads had an eye missing.

''You asshole, why the hell would you tamper with the dead?'' He asked.

The pony let out a laugh before responding: ''I only do what I'm paid to, and apparently that was to have my creations attack you.'' The pony sounded devoid of emotion.

''What Is the meaning of this? As your princess, I order you to tell me!'' Luna yelled.

''I am afraid that matter Is need to know, and you won't when the 'Plan' comes together.''

''Plan?, what plan?''

He then disappeared In a flash of magic, leaving us with the hoard of deceased ponies to deal with.

''Everypony move!'' I pulled out my scythe and handed my bat to Frank.

Putting my weapon In gun mode, I pulled the trigger and put a bullet through the skull of a pony to which It kept moving. Trying again, the same result.

''Don't you remember how all zombie flicks go? Gotta sever the head!'' Frank beheaded a undead corpse.

Following his lead, my extra long and sharp blade unfurled from Its compact prison as we combined our efforts. Delivering a sideways slash, my blade contacted the rotting dead flesh with such speed, a slight crunching sound of the trachea being sliced in half made me slightly cringe. Spotting one trying to chomp down on me, I readied for any possible pain, but It never came. Instead bit down so hard, his teeth fell out and was left with a clueless expression. Looking at him for a second, I smiled and threw him over to Frank who crushed his skull with a downward smack, getting one the spikes stuck and using the ragdoll body to smack away the others. Bringing my weapon behind as I pulled the trigger, the recoil gave me an extra kick for slicing right through the neck of another. This has got to be the best time I have had ever: Not every day my 'urges' can be taken care of, so the situation was taken full advantage of. Seeing one undead In particular struggle to get up, my chance was now.

''Why the big rush to get up?'' I applied pressure to the head which It uttered a groan.

Eyeing the back, a few bullets were put down, more groans coming from the undead corpse. A wicked smile found Its way to my face. Carving a few more scars to the already disposed body, my senses went Into overdrive, my breathing picked a little, and my hands were slightly shaking.

''All of this to work with.'' I thought.

I got so Immersed with my play toy that the sound of Frank snapping me back to reality made me blink.

''Yo, get your shit together, not exactly the time.'' He said.

Siding with him on that, we finished putting these disturbed souls to rest once again.

Time Skip: 5 minutes:

''Okay, that's the last of them.'' Twi Informed us as the rest of us made sure nopony was bitten or hurt.

''Excellent, but a more valid question would be to ask exactly that stallion was and why he did such a savage and horrible thing.'' Luna was baffled.

''Whoever he was, somepony paid him to do this.'' I pointed out.

What kind of sick pony pays another to try and commit pony Populicide? That's a thought for another time.

''Come, we should discuss this at the library.'' Luna stated. Or now, either one.

Before we left, a few of the ponies who Initially were scared witless were now voiced their appreciation on how she stood up and helped fight against the undead. The ponies...loved her, they cared and respected her. Just like we set out to

''First piece of the puzzle down, now for the rest to come Into play.'' I thought.

“Don't walk behind me; I may not lead. Don't walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend.”

Albert Camus.

Shifting Gears

Change

''You know what? An opinion Is nothing more than what you think about something: unless you have the entire world backing you up, It will not matter unless It's conveyed to where you and the person or people It's directed at consider/use It and  you get a good result.''

A quote by me.

The Library, 10:00 AM:

Hearing the sound of soft breathing, I was alerted to Twilight and Luna's presence. Looking down, the sight of them sleeping made a smile come on my face. Carefully moving their heads from on top of my chest, I ventured to the bathroom. Licking my dry lips and turning on the water, I stripped down and got Inside. ''Man, some night that was.'' I thought to myself. While Nightmare Night was fun, putting aside the Initial fear and unwelcoming nature of the ponies as well with that whole 'Undead pony' fight, we managed to turn the public opinion around. Scrubbing myself with the lemon scented soap, all of my worries washed away with stink, dirt, and grime of that night. Within about 10 minutes, my body had no traces of filth. Drying myself off with a towel, the almost primal growl of my stomach told me all that was required: Time to eat. Going In my room and grabbing a gray t-shirt, some black pants, and my shoes, I was good.

I Dressed In more comfortable clothes to better suit today's little function of going to Canterlot help and train some of the royal guard with some of my freelance techniques and possibly become a weapon smith to help fortify the guard. Now at first, turned down the offer, they're okay where they are now, plus sure to be some rowdy or stubborn cadets to deal with and nobody has no time for that. But after Luna telling me It's my duty as the future co-ruler of the New Lunar Republic, It would be In my better mind to do this. So heading downstairs and obtaining some food In my gullet, she brought up the topic of what exactly to expect. ''Recently, there have tensions and uprising within the ranks so my sister and I thought It to be best to enlist you along with a time-honored guard to help quell this Issue.''

''Somepony will be helping me?'' I questioned to which she nodded.

''A guard who has served his time, though he mostly helps and trains the new recruits.''

''Name?''

''Valiant Barrier, a unicorn.'' She answered.

Sounds like a swell guy, but he might be one of those high and mighty: I did my time, so you have no room to talk or some BS like that. I'm not saying that people who fight In the miltary, army, navy, air force, etc don't deserve credit, It's just: Ok, served your time, don't feel special about It nor brag, but you did good. I hate those type of people. They think just because they've been to war or seen someone get shot that they know everything or feel 'on top of It.' My point: be proud but don't brag so damn much, or at all.

''Well, If we're doing this, can Frank, Iron Hammer, and Spike come along?'' I asked.

''Of course, do not see why they should not.'' She said.

''Alright, time to whip those punks Into shape!'' Frank cracked his knuckles. Trying to see a positive out this, we finished eating and proceeded to Canterlot by train.

Being here once before, I was slightly familiar with a few of the places around here.

''Time to go to work.'' Frank smiled as we arrived on the training grounds.

Before I could offer a reply, a harsh 'At attention!' was heard behind us. Turning around, we saw a group of about 15 or so ponies, each of them looked rather scared and In front of them of was a unicorn with a black and mane tail with a gray coat with a cutie mark sword striking a magic barrier. He also had a few scars adorning his face, the one most prominent on his left eye.

''That must Valiant Barrier.'' Spike said.

Walking over to him, I took a look at the cadets and I must say: a few of them could stand to try and relax, nothing has really happened yet.

''And who are you?'' He asked with a smug voice.

''I am the help Princess Luna and Celestia sent to help whip the cadets In shape.'' I answered.

''And what about them?'' He pointed to the guys.

''My weapon smith, apprentice, and best friend.'' I gestured to each of them.

''Hmph, very well: let us get this over with.'' He turned his attention back to the cadets.

''Listen up you maggots! I am not here to here to kiss your flank If you think this Is too hard nor am I here for fun! I am here to train you to be cold hearted, emotionless killers and protectors! Don't like It then you can go and suck on your mother's teats!

The cadets all straightened up after hearing that.

''Together with the aid of...'' He looked to us.

''Jamir.''

''Spike.''

''Iron Hammer.''

''Frank.''

''You will go through a vigorous training session with no breaks! You will remember that this Is not, at any point a game, so you back out now before you humiliate yourself!'' He shouted.

''Well, you wanted crunch time, and know you have It.'' I told Frank.

First off on the agenda was basic weapon maintenance with Iron, while I know one or two things about forging, my expertise Is using them. He pretty much went over the simplistic version: what not to do, how to make sure It's In good condition and other stuff.

When It was Spike's turn, he basically told the quirks of being under a mentor-ship.

Frank pretty much said whatever was on his mind which was talking about explosions or cliched things that none of the cadets understood.

Finally, It came to me and my area of Interest: Fighting.

''When you fight, you'd think a million thoughts would go through your head, but there should be only 2 that are Important: Where am I right now and what can I use to help me?'' I said. ''And I mean that you only focus on what you're doing and what you can do to win: no matter how good your strong you or the opponent Is, the outcome lies In your hooves.''

Nodding at my words, we put these rookies to the test with a little sparring to see where they stood.

''Man, that was kinda fun, right?'' Frank handed me some water.

Sitting down after taking a break, my thoughts were confirmed as a few of them had a pretty good Idea on how to fight creatively while some leave some to desired.

''So what do you think so far?''Valiant asked me.

''They have potential, but they could stand to Improve their technique, kinda sloppy.'' I sipped some water.

''Second that.'' Frank added.

Going to go for another round, our session was Interrupted by a guard running to us Intent on saying something.

''The princesses...wish to...see all of you...'' He gestured to everyone.

Huh?

Getting up and setting off at a brisk pace, we made our way to the throne room to see what all the fuss was about.

''What's the matter?'' We arrived In the throne room.

''Thank you for joining us on such short notice.'' Celestia said, looking displeased. ''We have just received some disturbing news that our convoy was attacked.''

''Convoy?'' I asked.

''Aye, you see: back In the times of old there were the 3 pony tribes, the Zebras, the Griffons, and even the Changelings were conjoined as one faction In symbiotic relationships: Trading artifacts, having meetings, helping one another, and being allies. But time has gone by and each race has branched off and severed alliances with the other nations.'' Luna said.

''Recently, we wanted to try and reestablish a treaty to open the border and trade route to better allow commerce.'' Celestia Informed us.

''Our representative  was to try and negotiate with the Griffon Kingdom, but we have received news from one of the guards that his convoy has been attacked and him taken. Wing Dart, If you can be so kind as to Inform us of what exactly you saw?''

The Pegasus next to her nodded and spoke: ''Everything was going good until we heard some commotion up the road. We looked and assumed It to be a dead pony, but next thing we know, they had us surrounded. Everywhere we looked, a band of rebels attacked us. Besides the rep, I was the only to barely make It out. They were relentless...'' He shook his head a number of times.

''And what do you want us to do Princesses?'' Valiant asked.

''We would Implore Jamir and you to take this group of cadets attempt to track down the representative and possibly bring these rebels to justice.'' Luna said.

''It has been a minute since I last was In the field, though It would be my honor to do this for you.'' He replied.

''Sure, I'll help In anyway that I can.'' I stepped forward.

''Hell yea! If he's going then count me In!'' Franks chimed.

''Me too, might as well live a little.'' Iron said.

''And me too!'' Spike wanted to come.

''Sorry bud, but I'm more than positive that If you get hurt...Twilight Is going to kill me, no questions asked.'' I patted his shoulder.

''Aww, come on: I can take It! Besides I'm your apprentice, so how am I supposed to learn more without going with you?'' He asked.

''Fine, but you stick to me like glue, got It?'' I emphasized my point.

''Mmm-hmm!''

Didn't expect this, but guess now we're Involved In politics.

''So when are we leaving?'' I asked.

After obtaining the map of the route we were set out for, and procuring the necessary gear, we took this small squad of recruits to resolve this diplomatic problem.

Right now, we set out a steady pace with me, Frank, Spike, Iron, and Valiant riding In a carriage, the only sounds heard was the rickety wheels against the dirt road, the subtle breeze of the night sky, and the chirps of a few grasshoppers. A few hours had passed since we set out and nothing really happened. Looking out the window, the subtle moonlight sky put any of my potential concerns at ease.

''So are at the spot yet?'' Frank played with his gauntlets.

''According to the map, we should be here by now.'' Valiant peered outside.

''We're here, stop.'' He told the cadets pulling our carriage.

Getting out and stretching my muscles, we laid our sights on a dismantled carriage on Its side with signs of a struggle evident. Viewing Inside, nobody was here.

I shook my head at them to which they sighed.

''Oh, wonderful: now we have to look.'' I thought.

Instead, a piece of parchment laid near one the wheels that I picked up and read.

''If you're reading this, then you should know that the representative Is long gone, by the way: l see you...''

Next thing I knew, though faintly an array of eyes beamed at us, with hostile Intent, I assume.

''Okay, this has gotten me out of my comfort zone'' Frank said.

''Alright, seems these punks want a fight, so let's give It to em'.'' Valiant got the cadets ready.

Taking a sword out of the weapon cache and waiting, my eye caught a slight movement to my right as the tip was thrusted In that direction, a shout of pain confirming my strike.

''Ahhh! My beak!'' I heard a voice yell and sicking crack.

''Eat It!'' Frank laughed.

Dodging a buck Intended for my face, I traded blows with an Earth pony until he slipped up and I got him with a palm strike and knocked him down. Turning around and backhanding a Griffon and stabbing a Pegasus, I got tackled down the the hard ground by a unicorn.

''Hey, get off of him!'' Iron slammed his body Into the unicorn, knocking him off balance.

Getting back up, I saw Frank going after more of a kickboxing style with his reinforced fighting gauntlets, boots, and elbow gurards, delivering quick hits and kicks to exposed areas, the cadets banding together and making decent efforts to hold the line. Iron fancied using a war hammer, Valiant used his magic to make barriers to push the rebels back, and as for Spike: he was currently holding his own with a Griffon, narrowly avoiding the onslaught of claws until he saw his chance to lodge his sickle's blade In the throat and yank It across, blood spewing out and a scream of agony fill the air.

''Damn It, these guys just keep coming!'' I said, barely having room to breathe as my attention was shifted every few seconds.

Being too preoccupied with dodging this unicorn's 3 sword assault, I failed to see a length of rope wrap Itself around my wrist. I tried to cut It off, but my weapon was yanked out my hand by the unicorn and also my tie my other

''Let me go you bastards, or you'll regret this!'' I yelled.

''Shut It, ape!'' A griffon brought me down to my knees.

''You motherfuckers have no Idea who you're messing with: either release me or I will kill you and shit on your graves!'' A growl escaped my lips.

''A feisty one, aren't you? Well, the rest of your friends are captured and yet you are fascinating...just like Azure said.'' A rather scuffed Griffon said.

''Must be the head honcho of-wait, what?'' My thoughts got out of control.

''Did you say Azure?'' I demanded.

''Yep, one miss Azure light: she paid us to attack this convoy and draw you out: really good coin.'' He laughed.

''She did what?!'' I got up, a sword being held to my neck.

''I'm afraid so.'' A voice came from behind me.

''Azure?''

Sure enough, there she was: a smug smile on her face and letting out a little chuckle as she spoke.

''Yes, these gents were kind enough to honor my request of capturing the Equestrian representative and since I figured Celestia and Luna might catch wind of this, I was more than sure of them sending you to take care of It.''

''AWW, you bitch!'' Frank spat from alongside me.

''Why would you do this? I, we trusted you and you do this to us?'' My emotions were all over the place.

''No Ill will was directly placed upon you.'' She gestured to us. ''But your determination will be a Issue for my plans so the best way to fix that would to put you the one place nopony would think to look for you.'' She burst Into laughter.

''You won't get away with this: wherever we end up, not that I will find you and kill you myself.''

''Poor, naive child: I already have: Do It.'' She looked to the unicorns.

''Huh?'' I suddenly felt sleepy...no...have to stop her...can't let her...get away...ugh. I hit the ground and saw darkness.

Exposed

''A wise man makes his own decisions, an ignorant man follows the public opinion.''

Grantland Rice.

The feeling of sleepiness slowly faded away, only to be replaced by grogginess along with not wanting to move from where I laid. Every so often, a voice would faintly try and rouse me out of my sleep. Ignoring that, I sank deeper Into the covers and remained still...wait? covers? Grumbling as I pushed myself up, the source of my comfort turned out to be a bed. ''A bed?...'' My thoughts fought to keep myself awake.

''...Hey...'' There was that voice again.

''...Yo, wake up...'' It persisted.

''Ugh, I'll do It later...'' My head dipped up and down.

Then the voice got annoyed and I felt a slap.

''Wake up!'' It demanded.

Jumping up, It felt like someone was shaking me to further push their point.

''Wakey, Wakey, there are no eggs and bakey so get up!''

Opening my eyes, my brown pupils stared Into a pair of light blue ones.

''Ugh, Frank?'' I shook my head.

''Thank God you're alright: you were out for hours.'' He shifted uncomfortably.

''What's the matter?'' I got In a sitting position.

''I...thought I had lost you...''He sniffled. ''You've lost people In your life, and when you didn't wake up: I...'' He choked on his tears. ''You're my best friend man...I can't lose you: I just can't!'' He clutched his fist.

''Hey. Look at me.'' I spoke clearly. My eyes met his and for the first time since having his own body, he looked...scared.

''Was this any different than when back In Canterlot?'' He shook his head no. ''Then you have no reason to cry, you big baby: trust me when I say I'm not going anywhere.''

A smile came upon his face after hearing that.

''So where are we: and more Important: where are the rest of-He put a hand In front of me.

''We're right here!'' I heard Spike's voice call out.

''About time you woke up son, was starting to get worried.'' Iron said.

''But where the hell are we?'' I asked.

''Prison.'' Valiant said bluntly.

''Wait, what?'' I jumped up.

''Take a look.'' Spike gestured to us. I didn't even notice the huge cell door.

''How the fuck did this happen?'' Was my question. Then It came to me.

''That bitch Azure did this!'' I yelled.

''But why?'' Spike asked.

''Don't know what to tell you kid: but we need to find out exactly where we are In prison.'' Valiant said.

Getting up from my bunk and looking out the window, I saw that our surroundings reminded of either the Sahara or Egypt  from a quick glance. A few marketplaces could be seen In the distance, some tents, and the one thing that had to stand out the most would be the huge palace In the distance that portrayed a Griffon crest.

''Uh, we may a have a slight problem.''

''What?''

''We're In the Griffon Kingdom.'' I deadpanned.

Azure's Pov, Throne room:

''I hope this works.'' I told myself. Checking over everything, I took my guise as one of the cadets and went Inside.

''Princesses, princesses!'' I fake shouted.

''What Is the meaning of this guard: we were not to be disturbed.'' Luna said.

''I know, but there Is some sensitive news that you must hear.'' My voice dropped to a low octave.

''Well tell us quickly then.'' Celestia urged.

Having explained to them In great detail what happened from my perspective and by the time wrapped up my little talk, Celestia looked shocked and Luna fared no better as she looked ready to grind something Into a fine powder. After a minute of silence, Celestia spoke In the calmest voice: ''Is this true?''

''Yes, your highness: I even bear proof to confirm your worry.'' I brought one of the human's weapons, one of those dragon's scales, and a torn piece of fabric from his human friend.

They both gasped the sight of seeing the Items on the floor.

''Excellent.'' I thought.

''How can this be?''Luna was outraged.

''We were ambushed, your highness: there were too many of them to deal with, so they managed to buy me enough time to escape.''  I hung my head low.

''Thank you for sharing this: Dismissed.'' Luna shooed me away.

''Yes, Princess.'' The urge to wash my mouth out with soap came to me.

Exiting out with a smirk on my face, my thoughts drifted to how the human must be doing.

''Probably fighting to death.'' A thought came to me.

Jamir's Pov:

So here we are In fucking prison, and In the Griffon Kingdom of all places. This was going to be one hell of a magic trick to get out of. Speaking of which, they put a magic cancelling bracelet on my wrist and a ring on valiant's horn, rendering our magic useless. I was contemplating on how we potentially plead our case to the warden when the mess hall came Into view. Just like I thought to be: rows of tables, guards on the floor and catwalks, and the kitchen right near the entrance. Looking around, all manner of criminal and thug sat and ate: obtaining a good look at a few of the Inmates, the place mostly comprised of half Griffon, some ponies and zebras, and a small group of dragons.

''Well, this atmosphere certainly Is welcoming.'' The unicorn scoffed.

''Could be worse: we could have 'the chair.' or something worse.'' Frank commented as we headed to get some food.

I chose to set some ground rules as since I have never really been to prison: seeing a few detective shows and guessing, a pretty decent mindset found Its way In my head.

''Look, we have no Idea about what to expect In here, so everyone stay close to each other.'' I grabbed a plate of mush and meat and waited for the others to do so.

''So where are we sitting?'' Spike asked.

''Hmm...over there.'' I spotted a table some few feet away from the door and sat down.

''And this Is?'' Spike poked at his food.

To me, this looked like a crude attempt at some kind of oatmeal, and as for the meat: raw with a few Ice flakes covering It. Damn, do they prep the food? This Is a outrage. I was staring down my food when Frank tapped me on the shoulder and said: ''Go ahead, eat up.''

''What, why me?'' I asked.

''You seem to have this down, so you should try It first.'' He urged.

Sighing, I took a spoonful of whatever this crud was and tasted some. To my surprise, It wasn't that bad.

''Well?''

''Meh, put a little salt on, and shouldn't be too bad.'' I shrugged.

They looked hesitant, but tried some and gave a semi-ok nod.

Looking over at the slab of meat, I picked It up and took a small bite to which my teeth could not bite through. Seeing as my magic was unavailable at the moment, my 2nd best option to cook the meat would have to be Spike.

''Hey Spike, you mind making my meat here a little more rare?'' I held up my plate to him.

''Sure thing.'' He opened his maw and slowly blew out a stream of fire that melted the chips of Ice and filled my nose with a smoky that made me lick my lips In anticipation.

In a few minutes, my food was done and I dug In, biting through the smoky meat as I tasted the smooth flesh, contrasted by a slight sweet and sour seasoning that made me slightly drool at the feeling of tasting this miracle again.

A few seconds passed by as I tore Into the meat when I heard a few of the other Inmates run and scurry at the sight of a Griffon/Pony posse that as If they ran the joint.

An Earth pony with a  gray coat, red/black mane and tail, and a cutie mark of a battering ram and a smug look on his face.

A female unicorn with a blue coat, green mane with a red stripe, black tail, and a cutie mark a deck of cards with a flash.

There was a zebra with a with a type of fauxhawk,a few piercings adorning her eye and on the right ear.

And then there was a Griffon In the front: a thousand-yard scowl that only added to how he looked. He had a black and gold feathered coat, a scar over his eye, and the most noticeable feature would be his height. I don't judge first glance, but something tells me he might be counting on that to be a feint.

Ignoring them, my thoughts went back to ripping this meat apart, but they just had to come to our table and sit down.

''Enjoying ya meat there?'' The zebra joked.

''Well, Isn't this a wonderful group.'' Frank laughed.

''Stay your tongue, ape.'' The Earth pony said.

''Easy, Battering Ram.'' The Griffon put a claw on his shoulder.

Resting a claw on his face, the Griffon spoke In a amused voice: ''So what Is a Earth pony, Unicorn, Dragon, and whatever you two are doing In a place like this?''

''That Is none of your concern.'' Valiant growled.

''Hey, hey just asking a question: no need to be all hostile.'' He defensively said.

''Anyways, If you don't mind me asking: where exactly are we?'' I piped up.

''You mean you don't know? You're In one of the more looked down upon prisons In the kingdom: Only the worst get sent here.'' The zebra shook her head.

''Damn, no wonder this reminded me of the slums.'' I thought.

''So what did you do to get In here anyways?''

You know, It's common courtesy to ask for one's name when a conversation first starts or at least when It's progressed past 5 minutes. So I did just that and got some mixed results.

''And you all are?'' My question came.

''Battering Ram.''

''Flashing Deck.''

''Renoir.''

''And I am Zareran.'' He smiled, but that threw me off.

''Well, nice to meet you all, but we must be going: Lunch Is almost over. Ta.'' They got up and left.

I looked at the guys who merely shrugged their shoulders In response.

''This certainly will be some experience.'' I thought as we finished our food.

Ponyville, Twilight's Pov:

Me and the girls along with Lavender were enjoying ourselves on a picnic, having a good time laughing and playing when my horn lit up by Itself: something every unicorn's horn does when somepony's trying to mentally contact one another. Closing my eyes and focusing on the magical signature, I listened for whoever on the other end.

''...Twilight, I need you and the girls to come to Canterlot as soon as possible. We have some distressing news..'' Princess Celestia sounded mad and...sad, miserable almost.

The message being cut, my attention shifted to the girls as I gave them the run-down.

''Playtime's gonna have to wait girls, we're needed In Canterlot.'' I looked serious.

''Oh what the hay Is It now?'' Rainbow got up, the rest following suit.

''Whatever It Is, somehow It won't be pleasant...or easy.'' I groaned.

Mirrors

Borders

Jamir's Pov, A month later:

''Okay, I do not want to have that happen ever again.'' Frank sounded perfectly sane. Hell all the guys are just fine after that little venture Into darkness: literally and mentally. Many thing were said and done In our time there, and while we almost fell Into a place that seemed never ending, somehow I managed to keep everyone's head straight and come out as If nothing happened. ''So are we going to do the deed?'' Valiant asked.

''Yep, after a long time of waiting and planning, this Is the day we finally break out of here and get back to our family.'' I sighed, looking over my somewhat clean hands and gripping them to get the feeling back. Throughout all of that, I never once lost faith that I or the guys would never go down like that, not a snowball's chance In Hell: we're too stubborn. But I hope for two ponies to go through what we did: Azure and that tyrant Sergo.

Flashback: Week 1 of solitary:

''Let us go!'' Frank yelled as we got pushed Into a large room that had a sink, toilet, window, and a few bunk beds. Pretty much just like our last cell.

''What gives, this Is just like our other cell.'' Iron said.

''Yes, but there'll next to nobody to chat with, so you can talk each other crazy, so get In and be model crazies.'' One of the guards said.

''What do you suppose he meant by that?'' Valiant looked around our cell.

''Who knows, and more Importantly: who cares? Now keep quiet while I try and find a soft spot.'' Frank felt around the door.

''And what are you doing?'' I asked.

''Trying to find the tumblers so I can maybe lockpick our way out.''

''Sorry kid, but that probably won't be happening anytime soon: those doors looked reinforced, plus what could you possibly pick with?'' Iron asked.

''You just had to kill the moment, didn't you?''

Taking a seat down on a bunk, I cleared my head and thought about on how to better assess our little situation. With Azure double crossing us, being ambushed, waking up In prison, discovering a plot to go to war, and being stuck In solitary confinement and possibly worrying the girls, I was about ready to call It day as It was getting dark outside. Settling down Into our bunks, I looked upon the night sky and silently wished the girls a good night. ''I'm coming for you two little snakes, just you wait.'' I thought.

Week 2: Frank's Pov:

Let's see, a week In, and so far nothing's happened besides just being brought our meals and talking about possible ways to break out: only a few of them being noteworthy. But slowly: more and more I felt lonely. Not In the physical sense, I have my best friend here, but I feel a different type of lonely, the one you can't put In words, ya know? Following my best Instincts on this, Most of my time just consisted of just trying some of my Ideas to break out, which failed.

Week 2: Vailant's Pov:

So far, our little containment has begun to affect a few of us: namely that Graffias kid. Being paranoid, coming up with harebrained schemes, wondering If the food Is poisoned, having episodes, or just being dead quiet and staring at a wall for minutes at a time had me worried for him. Those are usually the early signs before somepony gets ready to snap from the pressure getting to them. But I have other Issues to worry about like how can I cope with being In a place like this again? Last time, I barely managed to make It out that place If not for her...No I can't be reminded of the past, I promised her that I'd stay away from going back to that lifestyle, I almost died...I will not allow myself to disgrace her good memory. Not after what she did for me.

Week 3: Spike's Pov:

I know that It'll take a lot of work to not go crazy from being trapped In here, but I'm starting to get scared. What If they never let us out? What If we starve? What If we-''Spike.'' A firm voice calmed me down. Looking over, I saw Jamir gazing out the window with a sad look on his face. At times, he would fumble with the bracelet on his wrist, sigh, and sometimes punch the wall out of anger at random Intervals. ''Can...can you come here for a minute?'' He gently cooed. Walking over to him on the damp, cold floor, I saw no other place to sit until he patted his lap and called me to sit. Lifting me up and giving me a view of the outside, the only things that could be saw was the calm, dead night sky, looking devoid of any life as the town fared not better as sounds of screaming and crashing could be heard In the distance, other prisoners going crazy or something. Jamir looked out the window for a few minutes and then at me: his brown eyes being filled with an array of feelings, the most noticeable one being hurt and slight rage. ''Tell me something, If you don't mind: How do you feel about all this? He sighed. Looking down at my small claws and over to the others being sound asleep, though Frank would slightly toss and turn every few minutes. I took a minute to compose my words as I don't  really know how to feel about this: I'm only a baby dragon, I know so little of this world, but one day my life went from being Spike the assistant to having all of these responsibilities and opinions to give. I'm not ready for that type of stuff, and I'm not sure my mind can take this.

''So far, I've barely been able to get a moment's rest to stop and think about what all this means and i'm not sure one how to deal with this. Who can really know how to deal with stuff like this? You have all these choices and thoughts and people depending on you but how do you not get stressed out or scared?'' My thoughts went haywire.

He gave a slow laugh and ran a hand through his shaggy like mop of hair.

''You know, can't really tell you If I had the answer: The reason why I'm able to do those things...unsure. But be there one thing I can tell you about, have to be this: Nothing'll keep me from doing this until the day Hell freezes over.'' He closed his eyes.

Now that got me thinking about what exactly drives him to push himself so much, but that can discussed In the morning.

Week 4: Iron's Pov: These last couple of weeks have seemed like years. Our morale Is low, we can barely think, It feels like the walls are closing In and we can't take anymore of this: day In and out: Darkness, restriction, and now legitimately It seems throughout all of this: the guards are trying to break our will but that won't happen. As we sat here In silence and ate the mush that passes for food, something was off. Like really off. A slight tangy and citrus flavor to It. ''Hey, doesn't this taste funny?'' Spike asked.

''Yea, I'm not liking this...'' Jamir spit his food out.

''This doesn't feel right: Are your bones vibrating?'' Spike felt around his body and started scratching around. Looking over, Valiant was twitching and his eyes were darting around, Frank fared no better as he started to scream and shake, but Jamir...He looked out of It: Clutching his head and groaning. ''They must have drugged..the food.'' He passed out. Soon, the room was spinning: tossing and turning as I heard voices, saw bright lights, and felt lightheaded and then felt a shroud of darkness overtake me as my eyes closed.

Jamir's Nightmare:

A slight breezing came across my face as my muscles ached and I let out a huff and got up and for as far as the eye could see was but a barren wasteland. A fearsome wind blew through the skies, obstructing my vision as I covered my mouth. But why do I feel like I've been here before? Walking to a foreign object jutting out, I removed some dust and uncovered...some of the Canterlot Castle. No this can't be It. Going down a little further, my eyes deceived me. ''How can this be? There's no way this could happen, I must be dreaming.'' I shook my head.

''This did occur child...what you see before you Is a definite and hopeless future that has occurred...'' A reptilian voice echoed.

''What do you mean definite future?'' I questioned.

The air was blowing fiercely and picking up by the minute. As to the nature of my question, the voice took Its sweet time before answering.

''You sure are dense. Due to not being able to accomplish you needed to, you single handily brought about war to the Griffon Kingdom and the Ponies which resulted In the falling of so many deaths of the ones close to you.'' A vision was displayed that showing the death and destruction of Canterlot. So many building falling, explosions, screams of terror, and In the mist of It: two figures being the main cause of It. Slashing and smashing along with the sight of so many dead bodies littering the streets. I was freaking out but the worst part came when the Image shifted to the throne room: A bloody and broken Celestia guarding a horn and wingless Luna, crying.

''Stop this, you monsters...what we have done to you?'' Celestia cried.

3 figures came Into view: all clad In cloaks. The one In the middle laughed before taking out a massive...scythe and pulling back the hood, the one left doing the same to reveal...me and Frank?

''Of course not: you never did anything for me, have you? You didn't come to my aid when we were In prison but we got out and saw the true light: That you ponies are liars and cannot be trusted. Our lady and mistress has revealed the truth to us and now all Equestria shall fall under her rule.'' I laughed.

''Please...don't. We can go about this...'Sniff!' another way: thou dost not have to do this.'' Luna was breathing heavy.

''Hah! You actually believe that spare me crap will work? Oh God!'' Frank laughed his brains out.

''My lady, may we please finish off these pests?'' Frank pleaded.

The figure, still having their face covered nodded.

Smiling at the answer, I, the fake me and Frank aimed our weapons and killed Tia and Lulu, my scythe carving a hole right through  the back of Celestia's skull, the blade being Embedded through her head and the tip coming out at under her chin while Frank swung for a home run and cracked Luna's head at a odd angle with a pretty gruesome sound.

''Noooo!'' I yelled.

''...Come along now, we have more to do.'' The figure spoke.

I just sat there, baffled at what I saw: How could that have been me doing that? I couldn't do that, I wouldn't. ''This Isn't real.'' I told myself.

''Oh, you would with the right provocation.'' The voice persisted.

''And you are?'' I wandered through the remains.

''I am something you resent: the very thing that possesses you...I am your sadistic side that you treat so horribly.''

''Why am I being shown this? How this Is even possible? Is anything even real?'' I asked.

''That Is none of your concern boy, what Is should be trying to survive or risk getting consumed by the shadow.''

''Huh?'' I asked.

Suddenly, I felt my body get hazy and felt the force of getting sucker punching by a freight train as I started to scream from the feeling.

''AHHHHHHH!'' My head throbbed.

I couldn't think straight: so many Images and thoughts were flooding through my head, the pressure was getting to me, I can't take much more of this!

For the longest time, I sat there suffering, hoping to have this feeling wash away. Thoughts of suicide and cannibalism threatened to break me, and for that one moment...I was certain I they succeeded.

''...No.'' I whispered. ''They...won't get one over on me...I'd...rather die...than...be. somebody's. BITCHHHH!'' A large roar escaped my throat.

''Wake up.'' I told myself.

''Wake up.''

''Wake up.''

''Wake the fuck up body!'' All my anger was poured Into my words.

Once again, I felt that feeling as I was rocketed out of my nightmare.

Slowly opening my eyes, the first thing my body did on Instinct was empty the harmful contents from my body, thank God the toilet was near as a wave of yellow bile exited out my mouth. Gripping the sink with both my hands, I got my footing and cleared a trickle of vomit of the corner of my mouth.

Hearing something that reminded me of a dying animal.

''Oh...my head...'' I groaned.

Looking over, I saw the guys pretty much how I would describe myself: pretty weak and pathetic. All laying In the fetal position: must being going through their own Hell.

Now that I can think for 2 seconds, what about them, without my magic, there's no way to do mentally communicate with them. Going over to each of them, I assessed the damage: Spike's clutching himself, Valiant's got a fever, Iron has some kind of twitch fit going on, and Frank seemed to get the short end of the stick as he was rocking back and forth, eyes wide open like a crack addict. He must be getting the brunt of It.

''How can I fix this?'' I wondered.

Then a bloodcurdling scream filled the room as I plugged my ears, drowning out the sound that made my teeth grind together. Looking around for something to shut him up, I decided to kick him In the stomach which shut him up.

''Man, how did we go from just relaxing at home to being drugged In prison and put In solitary?'' I wondered.

The sounds of hoofsteps alerted me to someone's presence.

''Shit.'' I thought.

Sitting still, I held my breath and waited for them to pass.

...

''I know you're awake, so don't even try and fake It.'' A female voice said.

Getting up, I weighed my options: seeing as I'm the only one conscious here, might as well Indulge this pony.

''So what If I'm awake: what can you do about It?'' I huffed.

''I can help you out..for a fee of course.''

''No money.'' My response came.

''Who said anything about money: you seem a crafty type that we could use.''

''For what? Not going to help criminals out.'' I spat.

''You seem certain about that but we both know that you'll do anything to get back to your family.'' The voice had a tone of empathy to It.

''And just what do you gain from all this?''

''Escape.''

''Huh?'' I asked.

The voice seemed to snicker before continuing.

''Come towards the door but crouch down towards the lower left near the hinge.'' It beckoned.

Going over to where It called, I saw a small Indentation that looked big enough to fit a hoof, maybe my hand.

Looking through, a blue eye looked back at mine.

''Wait, don't I know you?'' I asked.

''I did rat you out for trying to escape.'' She said.

''Flashing, wait why did you do that!'' I smacked the wall.

''I had a good reason: your plan wasn't that bright, but something tells me that you have more than one way to break out and I want In.'' Flashing smiled.

''As If. Helping other criminals escape Is something  we're not Inclined to do that: we can get out on our own.'' I was fooling myself.

I heard some shuffling and saw her hoof go through the crevice, four green colored pills being offered. At first glance, the urge to slap them In the air came to me, but since having nothing to go on, I listened.

''This pills will help eliminate the effects of the drugs: It should take a few minutes though.'' Flashing said.

I went to reach for the pills, but she held them back.

''Hey, what gives?''

''You'll only get these If you promise that we can get In on your little escape plan.'' She bargained.

''We?'' I asked.

''You and your little group and me, Battering Ram, Renoir, and Zareran.''

''I don't know...'' My hands were tied.

''Fine, you can just stay here and rot for however long you live...'' Her voiced went down the hallway.

Crud, she's got me at point blank range here. I know that at this point not a lot Is given, but...damn. Fine, whatever: If we can get home, then that's enough for me.

''Fine, I promise you guys can come with us, now...give me the seeds.'' I said, exhausted.

Coming back, she passed me the pills and I gave the guys one each forcefully since at this point they're pretty much knocked out.

''When you get out of here, come find me In the mess hall, we'll discuss the details there.'' Her hoofsteps grew quieter as she went down the hall.

End of Frank's Nightmare:

''No, no stay away!'' I yelled. This was starting to get a little scary: Everywhere I looked, the same Image would be there: a depiction of the world ending: But the fucked up thing was It was me...and Jamir. All around would be the same no matter where I looked. A burnt down Ponyville filled my vision along the cries and pleas for help of the the town. Blood littered the once clean streets, houses were burning and collapsing on ponies, and In the midst stood the somewhat Intact Golden Oaks Library with the girls being laid In front execution style.

''Please, y-you don't have to do this!'' Fluttershy cried, her face slightly dripping blood.

''She's right: this Isn't you, guys!'' Rainbow had a black eye developing.

''Oh, but this Is us, my dear.'' Jamir laughed.

The girls started to cry and hold each other, the end seemingly near. Then out of nowhere, a cloaked figure appeared along side 'us', just spelling out bad trouble.

''My mistress.'' 'We' both bowed.

The figure took a look around the chaos and then nodded to us. Walking up to the girls with murderous Intent, Jamir back away a good distance and took out the Avenger and put In staff form and did. the. unthinkable. He threw his sword In a circle and let It fly towards the girls heads with a large blot of blood spilling against the wooden frame.

''Oh god, I think I'm gonna throw up.'' My head was spinning.

I couldn't take this shit anymore, everything was getting to me and there's nothing to do about It. Wait...that's It.

''I'm gonna die...In my dreams.'' I saw the truth. I was never going to get out of here. The Insanity will consume me before long, Nopony'll remember me, they won't care, and the worst part of this? I'll never get the chance to tell Lavender how I feel...

''Hey..'' A voice called.

Oh great, more fuel to the fire.

''Hey, wake up...'' Every word felt like 1000 needles.

''Wake up!'' I felt a massive slap and a dim light fill my eyes.

Jamir's Pov:

''Ugh, what hit me?'' Frank asked.

''Glad to see you're all right too.'' I smiled.

''Ugh, what happened?''

''Nothing except the unusual drugging.'' I told him.

''Wait, they drugged us? But that all felt so real, I actually believed that was me doing all that.'' He rubbed his head.

''No offense, but I'd rather not know: besides, by the way your talking, It's almost as If we had the same vision.'' I said.

''We probably did.'' He said.

''As much as I'll regret this: tell me.'' I said.

5 minutes later:

''Damn..so we both agree that we can't let that happen no matter what.'' I told Frank.

''No doubt.'' He replied.

Just the thought of that was enough to make me even more determined to get out of here. Giving Spike a pill next, I only wondered what he could be going through.

End Of Spike's Nightmare:

''Ahhhh!'' I yelled. This was, this was, I couldn't even tell what this Is. In front of me lay this Image of a massive dragon that laid waste to a type of resting ground, piles and piles of other dragons being scorched and laid down like pancakes. In the midst of all the chaos, the skys looked very gray and rained clouds of ashes. Turning Its head, I saw that It...was me? ''No, that can't be me.'' I was baffled. Seeing the humongous dragon spread Its magnificent wings and took flight to the smoldering remains of Ponyville?

''No, no, no, no, noooo!'' I screamed.

Feeling something akin to hopelessness and utter fear, I broke down and started crying. I just had to, That was the only thing I could do. I was alone, nopony here to help me...

''Spike...'' A voice called.

''Wake up, little guy...'' It said.

Then without warning, I suddenly felt a rush of pain and the voice yelled.

''Get up!''

My eyes opened so quick, I was certain that they would stay open.

''Spike, are you okay?'' I heard Frank ask.

''Y-yea.'' I breathed out.

Jamir's Pov:

''So that's what you saw, eh?'' Spike asked us.

''Pretty much.'' We both replied.

''Well, who do we get up next?'' He asked.

''Frank, you get Iron, Spike you take care of Valiant.'' I told the pair.

Going over and administering the pill to the Earth Pony, Iron slowly started to come to.

End Of Iron's Nightmare:

I've seen a lot of things In my youth, but never before have I laid eye upon what I'm seeing now. In front of me was something out of some wicked pony's mind: A structure of various weapons were formed In the shape of a massive pony, going through and slaughtering all pony alike and destroying everything In Its general path. The one thing that had me really disgusted was how the pony operating the thing was me...but I, no he was different: Various body parts were either replaced with metal or, oh sweet Celestia: other pony parts. ''What kind of sick, twisted game Is this?'' I was disgusted.

This wasn't real, It had to be fake or was my mind playing tricks on me? An Intense pain throbbed throughout my head as the only thing occupying my thoughts were the level of gore and destruction my eyes processed.

''Get up.'' A voice echoed.

''Huh?'' I looked around the void.

''Are you awake?'' It asked.

''Hello?'' I called.

'Slap!'

I woke up after that, the feeling of a cold floor being one of the many things I felt along with pain, nausea, and uncomfortable thoughts.

''Iron, bro: you okay? How many fingers?'' Frank asked.

''Ugh..two.'' I shook my head.

Jamir's Pov:

''So...you were like some kind of pony/machine hybrid?'' I was Intrigued.

Iron nodded as he took a seat on the bed. Now all that was left was Valiant. And If these guys's nightmares were even remotely close to his, even though I don't know yet: It can't be good.

End of Valiant's Nightmare:

''Is that who I think It Is?'' This could not be right. However I look at this, I can't help but actually believe what's In front of me. A vision of wasteland covered In pieces of broken artifacts lay strewn across a otherwise clean and proud town. But the one thing that stood out to me was the  pony that stood at the edge of the village, a smug grin on his face he looked to be the one responsible for all this. But that was thing. That pony was me, or at least I think It was. But how can I be sure If this Is real or not. Everything was going at a steady pace until I saw the one pony laying at the hooves of 'me' that made me stop and gasp at the sight.

''T-this cannot be. V-Violet?'' My breath ran short.

Before I could further question what I saw, a massive wave of pain, sickness, and overall a total rush of blood to my head.

I sat up, the only thing keeping me from Immediately throwing up was the Immediate shock of seeing that Image. For a few minutes, I sat there, completely like a statue until I felt a slap knock me down.

''Hey, you alright: nothing out of place?'' The rookie asked.

''Who slapped me?'' I looked around.

They all pointed to the rookie. Shakily getting up and hobbling over, I managed to sucker punch him right In the gut.

''Ouch.'' He wheezed and fell to the floor.

''Damn, Valiant: you didn't have to sock him In the gut.'' Jamir said.

A slight cough was heard as he got up and said: ''No, no: you get that one for free. But when you miss which you will: I'll be ready to knock you out like Fight Night.'' He sat down.

Jamir groaned at what he said before smacking his hand to his face.

''What?'' Graffias said.

''Ignoring him: now that we're all situated and awake, I only think It be best to tell you guys some good news and bad.'' Jamir looked worried.

''Good news?'' I asked.

''We may have a way to get out of here.'' He smiled.

''And the bad?'' Iron asked.

''We gotta help those prisoners we met at lunch break out too, or we're up the creek without a paddle.'' He summarized.

Back To Current Pace, Jamir's Pov:

''So that's your plan?'' Spike asked me.

Well, I admit: not really the most creative one out there: but should everyone pull off their job, then we can get out of here and take the warden down a peg. Permanently.

Coping...It Hurts So Much!...Why?

Hope

Twilight's Pov: A Month Ago

A faint smell of apples lingered In the air as I cleared my thoughts. Being momentarily In a trance, I failed to see the hoof resting on my shoulder along with: ''Sugarcube, are ya alright?'' Looking up, I saw Applejack with a worried face. I'm not sure If alright would be the accurate term to use here. With all that's happened In this past month, nopony can officially claim that they are alright.

''No, Aj: I'm not...ugh: I don't know anymore.'' My head slumped down on the table.

''Oh, don't give me that look: Now ah'm certain that he wouldn't want to see you like this.'' She comforted me.

''But how would you know? For all we know he's...dead and so are the rest of them.'' My eyes began to water.

''Darling, I must side with Applejack on this one. You should not be saying those things.'' Rarity scolded.

''And what of you girls? Have you done the numbers like I have or considered every possible outcome or even just come to terms with the truth?'' I asked them.

''Uh...'' They uttered.

Exactly as I thought so. A whole month has went by and nothing else has come up In the disappearance of Jamir, Frank, Spike, or the Royal Guards. Considering that the Griffon Kingdom has yet to have It jurisdiction waved, all we can do Is sit on pins and needles. At first, we were confident the guys would return In a few day's time. Then It turned to weeks, seemed like years, and now pretty much a fact at this point: They are dead. The girls didn't take the news so good after the first week or so. Rainbow Dash still seemed certain of them coming back, but every few days she would come to the library to read, only to do so In Jamir's bed and cry herself to sleep. Rarity took It as a jest of sorts, no surprise she'd wear a mask of false perception. Pinkie Pie must have took It the hardest as her mane and tail deflated and her coat got a slightly darker color. Without her helping, the Cakes began to lost business and all together prepared to shut down. Applejack was...stoic about the whole thing, rarely showing any readable emotion when she worked or talked with us.

Lavender was completely devastated at this and refused to come out of her house for days at a time until Rose convinced her be out and about, though she still had that same look of sorrow and hurt. But Fluttershy seemed the absolute broken up about this. Not 2 weeks In and she already tried to find her own answer of trying to commit suicide.

Flashback: 2 weeks after the news, Twilight's Pov:

Receiving the bad news had got us all In a bit of a slump, but In times like times like this, It helps to be together, not apart. Going over to the one pony who that might need the support of her friends the most. Knocking on the door, we waited for a response.

''Fluttershy, you there?'' I asked.

No response.

We knocked again.

''Hey, Fluttershy: you there?'' Rainbow called.

I was prepared to try another time but Rainbow decided to rush Inside.

''Fluttershy! What In equestria are you-oh my gosh!'' She yelled.

In front of us laid a knocked over chair and a jumping Angel bunny above Fluttershy hanging by a noose?

''What In the world?'' Rarity asked.

All I heard before Rainbow flew over was: ''NOOOO!''

Flashback End:

Luckly, we got there just In time. Any longer and we would have lost her. With a little time and a stern talking to by me: she calmed down and we had to keep a close eye on her. Moving on with the Princesses, they really didn't fare better as we did. Every so often, they would send us letters requesting to come and talk, but every time they only got worse.  Celestia looked down and often unresponsive. And Luna fared no better as she mostly spent her time Isolated In her room and the very few times she did come out, she only spent her time In the Royal Library researching something she kept to herself.  But the one who seemed the least worried about all that happened was Azure.

Oh, I'm just...I miss Jamir: we all do, but he could be somewhere that we're unable to go or worse: He could be dead.

''Now, darling: Is there anything that we can do to possibly lighten your mood?'' Rarity asked.

I looked up to my friends and saw concern In their eyes, but I don't think there's really a thing anypony can do to help me-''AHH!'' I felt a Intense stomach pain.

''Twi, you okay?'' Applejack rushed to my side.

''N-no, I think we should...Blah!'' I threw up and felt lightheaded again.

''Uh-oh! Come on girls, let's get her ta Ponyville Urgent Care!''

I'm fine, fine. But what Is this other feeling that I'm having? It's not so much physical pain, but still felt off to me.

The last few words that came out my mouth were barely heard by the girls as they took me to urgent care: ''Please...come back to me, Jamir. Back to your family.

Time To Find Out

Binds of Fate

Jamir's Pov:

Now that our little 'problem' has been resolved somewhat, the next thing to do was to meet up with Flashing to discuss our plan to break out of here. Working with convicts aren't something a person like me would condone, but, she did help get the guys out of their high. Plus If a chance to get back at that douchebag of a warden comes to me, I will not waste my chance. Walking Into the mess hall, I set my sights on finding the unicorn A.S.A.P. Seeing Flashing talk to her group, I smiled a bit as this was going along a little more easier than I thought.

''And here he Is!'' The unicorn pointed a hoof In my direction.

Sitting down and eating the same mush I've come to bear with, the Griffon In front of me began to speak.

''Based on what I've been told: you're not the kind of...''Human.'' I corrected him. Human to work with criminals such as us, though right now, you don't have a lot of options If you want to get out of here.'' Zareran said.

''So what did you have In mind?'' I cut to the chase.

''Someone's a little antsy.''

''Well, we did spend a damn month In solitary, so the next time I see darkness, It better be of the cool night sky.'' I said.

''So what's the plan?'' Valiant got Impatient.

''Whoa there: Okay. Here's how It goes down: we start a pretty simple lunch riot that will divert the guards so we can go and retrieve your weapons and take care of the warden as well." That seemed, If not more, than less original than my plan.

Taking a good look at the Griffon, he seemed like he didn't belong or get here by standard means as the others. For the most part, this all seems planned. But something he said threw me off and now I have to know what the hell he's talking about.

Putting on a straight face, I leaned back and asked: ''How do you know we have weapons?''

''Oh, I uh, just kinda figured you'd have some seeing as you're In a pretty big prison.'' He quickly said.

''So? Lots of people can get In prison for little things, not necessarily weapons being part of the equation.'' My response came.

He was sweating a bit and looking a tad fidgety from the question, though I'm sure he's hiding some Information which I'm gonna need to know one way or the other. I was so close to piecing the puzzle together, but what am I missing?

''Hmm, the face Isn't really much to go on, nor Is his attitude. This guy might crack...that's It!'' I thought.

I saw him back  when I went to the National Cider Expo with Applejack. He was at that bar with that Pegasus and unicorn. But why he's here Is kinda weird.

''I think I know you from somewhere and I'm more than certain you know my meaning: so why don't you cut the act?'' I got up In his face.

''What are you talking about? You must be blind: I never even saw you In Vanhoover.''

...

Slip up.

''He never said anything about where he was, so that means you do know something.'' Valiant picked up on his choice of wording.

''So how about you tell me all you know before I count to 3 and your bloody trachea Is right In front of you?'' A piece of loose metal was put to his throat.

''Wait, wait! Okay I'll talk: I did see you In that bar In Vanhoover, but...'' He stopped.

''What?'' I growled.

''Azure paid us to spy on you and tell her If you done anything suspicious, but you beat us to the chase.''

''Is that true?''Battering Ram asked.

He put his claws In a non-offensive gesture and asked me to stand down. Taking the metal shard away for the moment, I waited for anything further.

''So what happened to your boys?'' I wondered.

''Had to split up to avoid capture, but That wasn't everything: she also paid us for other jobs but most of them were chump change. A few months ago, we got offered a real job with some good coin to attack and ambush this convoy with a Equestrian representative or something like that.'' He said.

My eyes suddenly widened and soon had rage replace them as I slammed his head down and almost put this shard through his skull. But a hand stopped me In the nick of time.

''Man, look at him: he's In prison for what he did. Don't you think he kinda paid the price?'' Frank reasoned.

''No.'' I stated.

''He's right, you know: I did pay the price. A big one. While doing this line of work Is not necessarily preferred, I had no other choice as my sister has a condition that leaves her weak and vulnerable, so I was hoping this job would give me all I'd need to help pay for her treatment, but that bucking mare Azure double crossed us: guess the saying goes: It's just their nature.''

''Your sister has a condition?'' Iron asked.

''When she was being born, our mother's body wasn't ready to take on the stress of having another baby and passed away. The doctors told me and my father It was a slim chance, but my sister Inherited a complicated disorder and had signs of struggle. She has a weak constitution, so It's hard for her to perform the simplest of tasks. He then looked at me with a few tears In his eyes and continued. ''Do you want to know what the last thing my mother told me before her death? ''Take care of your sister, she'll need her big brother to help her.'' So you can hate and want to kill me all you want, but I'd rather breathe my last breath trying to help her than letting you do It, so If you really feel the need to, than let's go.'' He put his claws up.

I froze after finding out what he told me. He did all this to....help his baby sister?  Now that takes guts and heart for him to commit and for what? To be thrown In prison to rot merely because a financial disadvantage and unexpected situations.

...

Not If I can help It.

''Look, I don't know what occurred with your family, nor do I care and yet we have one common goal, all of us: to break the hell out of here. So why don't we save any acts of vengeance or help until we're 100% sure our exit's not blocked, but just to ensure complete cooperation with this, one of your guys'll go with my team to care for 'securing' the necessary bits for your sister while I'm going with you to get the rep. That Is my only deal, you can leave or live with It.'' I smirked.

''Fine, doesn't seem like we have much of a choice do we?''

5 minutes later:

Surveying the area first was key as this may be our only chance to do this, so there Is no time for error. Getting Into place, I waited for the signal that would put this plan Into motion.

''You sure about doing this?'' The small drake asked me.

''No, but we can hope everything works out and we can get home.'' I looked towards the door.

Seeing Frank and Iron posted there, the former took a look around the corner and flashed me the signal. (ripping off a air band aid) Nodding to Spike, I rushed over to a table and got a chair In my hands.

''This better work.'' I thought.

Yelling the word: ''There's a bomb In here! Evacuate now!'' I vaulted the chair towards the nearest glass like object which happened to be a service window for giving prisoners food when It smashed to pieces with a loud sound, my earlier statement riling the prisoners to jump up and start beating the snot out of each other. During all the commotion, a few of the lunch mares sounded the alarm.

Youtube Video

''Time for phase 2, come on, let's go!'' I yelled over the siren. Hurrying over to the door, we waited for the guards to come In, now being the time for do or die.

I took a quick peek and saw a few  guards running down the hall, batons In their mouths.

''3 of em', get ready!'' I counted down.

3...

2...

1...

SMASH!

We hefted our chairs at the right time, knocking two guards out while Battering took care of the other, all of them falling down with a thud. Rushing over and searching them, I found a set of keys that looked to fit my bracelet. Putting the key In, a click was heard and It fell to the floor. Feeling a tingly sensation return and the feeling of being weightless took me over for a minute or two accompanied by a white green aura blanketing my body. Handing the key over to Spike so he could undo Valiant's, I tested to see If everything was In order by levitating one of the dropped batons to my hand.

''Now that feels-''AHHH!'' the fight behind us was starting to get a little wild.

''So where are we going?'' I asked.

''The armory: that would be the first place to put any confiscated weapons.'' We began our descent out of this hell-hole.

Azure's Pov, Unknown Location:

This Is certainly has been quite a journey just for some simple Information, however this may be part of the ever so long quest to attain ultimate power. While my time In Ponyville has been somewhat enjoyable and hectic, It certainly fares better than most of where I've been In the past few years. Regardless, the plan will go forward. Seeing a figure pass by and drop a letter on the table by me, I waited for a few moments before casually walking out and retrieving what I came for, my day brightened up as I proceeded on to the next part of my plans.

Jamir's Pov:

Following our current path left us with opposition along the way, our group size providing us with a better chance of handling ourselves. The baton In my hand was kinda helpful, but I settled on using my magic to just repel the guards back while Valiant got to work breaking the armory's lock open while the rest of us bought him time.

''Got It!'' A padlock fell down.

Opening up the gated door, an assortment of weapons were presented to us, my scythe, Armour, and Exacalibolg calling my name. Securing the former on my holder and picking the up the latter with one hand, everyone else got suited up In a few minutes.

''Now that's better: so where's the warden, he must be hiding like a coward.'' Valiant said.

''He should In be In his quarters, almost never leaves there so we should have a open window to get him but It won't be easy.'' The zebra said.

CRASH!

''Damn, they sure are making a mess over a fake bomb, but we don't want to be any longer than we need to so let's get the warden and get the hell out of here.'' I told them.

''Fine, but let's just not take all day.'' Frank groaned.

Ponyville Urgent Care, Twilight's Pov:

It's been about an hour since we arrived and now we're waiting on the results of my test to see If anything's wrong. At first, this could be nothing more than just a mild sickness, but more and more lately, I've been having these sudden mood swings, throwing up, and for the great life of Equestria: I have the strangest cravings. Fumbling with a pamphlet, we all sat In silence for a few minutes until Rainbow got bored and plain out asked: ''Will the doctor hurry up already? How bad could these stupid test results be?''

''Rainbow Dash! You can not rush the doctor as he's doing the best he can to ensure Twilight's results are accurate.'' Rarity scolded.

''Will ya girls calm down? Look, the doctor's here.'' Aj pointed a hoof to the brown unicorn doctor who looked distressed.

''Ms. Sparkle, I am afraid there Is some good news, bad news, and neutral news.'' He said.

''I'll take the good news first.''

''Good news Is you're not sick with any type of foreign disease.''

Oh, well that's wonderful to know.

''The bad news however Is we have no Idea of how long the process will take.'' He looked at his clipboard.

''Process?'' Fluttershy asked.

''And that brings me to the last part of the news: congratulations Ms. Sparkle: you're pregnant!''

...

''WHAT!?'' We all yelled.

Nearing The Warden's Office, Jamir's Pov:

''Watch your back!'' I made quick work of the guards as we worked In unison.  Turning a corner down the hall, the warden's door was In sight. This was It. My time to pay back this son a of a bitch Is so close I can taste It. We decided that me and Frank will go In while the others will go and secure our way out. Putting one of my spare clips, I reloaded my scythe and we got Into position on opposite sides of the door.

''You ready?'' I mouthed to him.

He nodded as we kicked In the door, weapons In hand and looked around to find the bastard sitting In his chair smoking without a care In the world.

''So you have come...I was getting tired of waiting: excitement does wonders for the soul.'' He blew a cloud of smoke In the air which prompted a coughing fit from me.

''Look, you know why we're here, so why don't you cut the crap?'' My gun's barrel was pushed to his forehead.

''If you believe yourself to pull the trigger, then go ahead and do It...'' That voice talked to me again.

No, I can't let It get to me...I just can't I-''Watch out!'' Frank yelled at me.

''DIE!'' Was all I heard before getting vaulted out a window.

The sheer force of getting slammed onto the concrete was rather painful, but thanks to my Armour, nothing felt broken. Pushing the griffon off of me and getting up, I readjusted myself and almost lost my balance. Hearing a low chuckle as he got up, Sergo displayed a look of joyfulness and unbridled aggression at me.

''My dear boy, you should know one thing If any...you just picked the wrong fight.'' He cracked his paws.

''We'll see about that.'' I picked my bat up and whacked It on the ground.

Getting In a defensive stance, I slowly circled around him, keeping track of the subtlest of movements. Seeing a faint twitch, I rushed with a speed so quick, my bat caught wind of something on one of the spikes. Where did he go?

''Behind you fool!'' I was tripped to the ground and dropped my weapon. Moving left and right to avoid his claws going for my face, I caught him with a surprise uppercut and threw him over me landing on his back. Hopping up, I followed a more attentive boxing stance and waited for him get up. Rubbing his jaw and looking at me ready to fight, he opened his wings and took flight In a straight line, all I did was let him come to me as this Is taking a slightly edgy turn pretty quick. Focusing my eyes and arm on a fixed place, what happened next was a result of pure calculation. Holding my hands with both palms facing out, Sergo's paws were captured and his beak cracked In half with my steel toe boot tip giving a shocked look on his face as I turned around and body slammed him to the ground, having the wind knocked out of him.

''Man, that was too close even for me.'' I slowed my breathing down.

''Hey!'' Frank called from the tower.

Damn, I fell that far? Should I be grateful or being doubting myself right now? Nah. I brought my wings out and flew up to him.

''What?''

''That was so awesome! you were like: Ahh! whop! and, and he was like: Ohh! you bastard! Then you took his paws and went: Bam! Gotcha ya In the face!'' He laughed.  His sense of humor Is special, I can least say that.

''Come on, let's go.'' I offered my hand which he took. Gliding back down, the warden began to stir and groan.

''What do we do about him?''

''I would say just kill him here and now, but we really can't have any deaths here since It would do no good for the whole treaty, but I have another Idea.'' I fired my magic up.

5 minutes and a terrible joke later:

Right now, we're making our way to the exit, master key In hand when Frank kept pestering me.

''All I'm saying Is that an opportunity for a joke came and I took It so why am I being put on the spot like that?''

Ignoring him, we turned a corner and came back to the loading bay to get out of here, If the others did their part. Opening the doors and looking around, a guard spotted us and I got ready to put a round through his head when he got knocked out from behind by Iron.

''About time you guys showed up, we don't have much time so we have to go right now.'' He told us.

''Where's our ride?'' I asked.

My answer came In the form of our carriage, being pulled by Battering Ram and Valiant with the others being Inside.

''Move It!'' The Earth pony said.

Nodding, we hopped on, a little 'gift' for Celestia and Luna to have a valid excuse for my absence which brings on how the girls'll and my Xenia react to seeing us again. Hope they won't yell too much, especially Luna of all ponies. Still hearing signs of the 'riot' going on, I sighed and actually had a time to think without having my life In jeopardy as I looked upon the sky beginning to change from a pale orange and slowly shift Into the night.

Reason

I Have Seen This Before.

Composure

Jamir's Pov:

I don't know why nor how, but this really seemed to be taking a lot longer than at first glance. All we're doing Is just staking out a shanty compound and for what? To potentially freeze out In the cold over one pony and a treaty, but now I'm starting to get a little uncomfortable just sitting here. Some feet away was a decent sized kind of little hovel In what I'd say to be the worst part of any town: the slums. Zareran Informed us that the Equestrian representative was taken here and being held by some demented dragon: Kanaranx In a nutshell, this guys's fought on the front lines In the Great Dragon War and was subjected to a great deal of mental trauma, leaving him with the modern version of A.D.H.D. On a more particular note, this was going have to be well executed to the letter since we have a wild card plus anything could go wrong In a second.

Running a hand through my hair, I sighed and looked up In the sky. The sight of the moon In clear and unobstructed view only reminded me more of how I miss Luna and the girls. But that feeling only fueled my desires 10x more to just do what I came here to do In the first place. Taking one last look at the sky, I admired all the splendor and calm, quiet nature of the night before turning my attention to the griffon.

''So the rep's In there?'' I asked.

''Yea,  ol' Kan-Kan should be feeling In a giving mood, but be aware: he doesn't have the best logic.'' Flashing said as we made our way over.

Playing this safe, I only settled for using the gun function on my scythe, the very least I could do was shoot at their feet should they get out of line.

''But remember we have a deal.'' The griffon reminded me.

''I know, that's why I let you send Renoir with the guys while they take care of getting your sister and what she needs.'' I thought back to our little talk.

10 Minutes before hand:

Arriving In a questionable part of town gave me doubts, but still I let the local here explain with a somewhat crude map.

''So look: If we're gonna do this It's gonna be done right. Your team'll go and and head down to this part of town and make sure my sister's okay. You can take this service entrance down Into the slums and proceed on from there. Everything should be lax, so you might not encounter any resistance. Just go In and get what's needed and get out, we'll all rendezvous back here.'' Zareran said.

''Fine, doesn't seem to hard: but who's going to be leading the charge?'' I asked.

''Me!'' Frank and Valiant spoke up.

''You both lead, just take care not to bite each other's necks off and I swear If anything happens to my sister...''

''Relax, they'll take extra care to make sure nothing goes wrong.'' I assured. He scoffed at me with no belief.

Everything should go just fine on their end, but I am more concerned about how to deal with a possible psychotic dragon. Walking over with a calm demeanor, we were led through a door and downstairs to a cellar where two Earth pony guards were stationed. Taking a look at Zareran, they let us pass and a laugh was heard from down below. Walking down the stairs, a few figures came Into view. A blue Pegasus was playing  poker next to a jet black dragon who looked very pissed off, a pony with tied up with a potato sack over their head In a distant corner.

''Maybe you should slow down, It's not really a race to win If you don't know what your doing.'' The Pegasus snickered.

''Silence, this game just doesn't conform to my style of playing so It gets burnt!'' The dragon let a stream of yellow fire loose and smelt the cards and chips Into one soupy mess. Clearing his throat to make our presence known, Kanaranx turned his head to us with a speed that was sure to have his neck hurt. Settling his eyes on Zareran, he broke Into a wicked smile and clapped his claws In joy.

''My dear friends, how has life been treating you?'' The excitement In his eyes only paralleled to his body language.

''Alright, I guess: just broke out of prison so-''What?! hold It, hold It, hold everything and spill the details, do It!'' He brought up a chair and began munching on some jewels.

15 minutes later.

''And that's pretty much how It happened.'' Flashing explained.

Kanaranx looked at me, and then to the representative and laughed.

''That Is messed up, Indeed. I was hoping on this job to pay out, but since Azure double crossed you, I guess the least I can do Is give you what you came for, but since this'll put a major dent In my scales how about this: you owe me one favor, no matter the time or place.'' He offered his claw to me.

Considering all that happened, a small favor can be the least of my worries than a war sparking up.Taking his claw, I gave him the firmest handshake I could, looked him In his eyes and said: ''Deal.''

''Excellent, excellent! Wind Breaker, release the prisoner!'' The dragon said with a wave. The Pegasus seemed reluctant to do so, but none the less complied, revealing a tan unicorn mare knocked unconscious. Going over and waking her up, she looked to be In good condition. No visible rib lines, so they aren't starving her. Her body Is free of scars and wounds, so she must just be knocked out without much of a struggle, and her breathing rate Is normal, so that checks out: ''Now what about the peace treaty?'' I searched her satchel.

''It's right here: so go ahead and take your last look because you'll never see It again.'' Wind Breaker unfurled his wings and flapped dust Into our eyes and fled.

''Damn, I can't see!'' I tried to clear the foreign debris out, my eyes watering from the dust and a Itching sensation present with every single piece feeling like tiny shards, edging my field of vision as I tasted traces of dirt. Following the sound of his hoofsteps outside, my ears picking up on his wings taking flight. Holstering my weapon, I took random aim as a bullet left the barrel, a piercing blare filling the air. Regaining my sight, my feet dashed quickly, giving me time to get my wings out and soar after, the thick, hot air leaving a slight sour taste on my tongue.

A flood of emotions went through my head as once again I was served yet another crap sandwich when my goal was so close. Letting a growl escape my lips, I once again have to fix a problem before It turns to something nopony can handle.

Frank's Pov, The Slums:

Walking down a dirt path, a small light shined on something In the distance. Jogging ahead of the group, I found It to be a puddle of water, the night sky Illuminating my facial features. Looking at the tangled black mess on my head I called hair really has grown. Brushing a few strands out of my way, my once smooth skin Is now blanketed with remains of dirt and small cuts. My light blues eyes only portrayed tiredness, hurt, and confusion as I readjusted my gloves. Sighing as we kept moving, the small sounds of grasshoppers and the occasional scream of protest filled the air with our trek. Stopping to look at the map, It looked to point us to the left. Walking slowly, we came Into a clearing that led to a open sewer pipe, the briny, putrid smell assaulting my nostrils and forcing me hold my sleeve to my nose and step back.

''Ugh, we have to go down there?'' I began dry heaving.

The Zebra nodded as she hopped In, a squishing sound coming throughout the tunnel as a splash was heard next.

''Come on, can't we have a break for once?'' Valiant complained.

I slapped my forehead, the cool texture of my gloves forming a temporary pleasant feeling. Going down one at a time, I only shuddered when my turn came.

''This better be worth swimming In shit, or me and that griffon will be at each other's throats.'' My protest were cut short as I hopped In.

Big Mistake.

A Immediate flow of bile came Into contact with my feet that felt like someone mashing pieces of jelly together as the sound did no better. To put In perspective: Pig sloshing around In filth. Hoping for this to be over, my wish was granted as I flew some feet across a crap filled body of water and fell face first on a pile of sacks. Clenching my fist In anger and disgust, Renoir spoke.

''His sister Is down that way.'' She pointed to a old shack that would fallen over by now. Taking the charge, we came down the path and went Inside. Seeing fruit piled In a corner, dried bones from some type of meat,  a stale smell of something, and a sponge bath tub, a dim light came from the other room. Pulling back a tarp, a basket laid In the middle, a small mass slowly breathing In and out, oblivious to our presence. I was moving forward when the Zebra stopped me with a hoof and said: ''Wait here, let me wake her up.'' She whispered.

Moving over to the sleeping Infant, she slowly shook her awake.

''Huh? Big brother?'' The child let out a yawn.

''No, honey: It's me Renoir. Your brother Is busy taking care of something so we're getting you out of here.'' She cooed.

The child looked at us with mild confusion for a moment while I went outside to try and clear some of this gunk out.

Jamir's Pov:

Flying after this troublesome Pegasus certainly burnt a hole In my mercy meter. I say that because I will break his wings six different ways and stick It where the sun don't shine! Whatever this guy's problem Is, he sure seems determined to see It through. Rounding back to try and knock me out of the sky, swerving through small spaces, and just plain being a complete asshole. Seeing the kingdom's palace coming In the distance, I decided to bring out the Vindicator and try something different out. Coming to a stop, I focused my scope on a loose set of construction material and fired.

Crack!

The resulting structure collapsed on the unsuspecting pony, a scream of surprise alerting me to his demise. Flying down, I discovered one of wings got pinned down by stray debris, a look of anger on his face.

''Buck...'' He groaned.

Sorting through the wreckage, a letter with the royal Canterlot seal dropped to the ground, obvious signs of wear and tear present, but hopefully the proposal Is still legible. Opening It up, the penmanship looked to be In order.

To the desk of the current Ruler of the Griffon Kingdom: this letter Is to attempt a mutual agreement that can prove beneficial to both parties Involved. We request a formal meeting to form a union between Griffon and ponies completely to open trade routes,  become business associates, and provide better opportunities to handle future endeavors. A representative will be present to the signing of the treaty, should you accept. We await your reply, Princess Celestia and Luna of Canterlot.

Sounds about right, now to get this-''Cough!'' Idiot out of this wreckage and this letter and representative to the King.

10 minutes later:

Carrying the somewhat conscious Wind Breaker proved to be no problem at all since I mostly flung the bastard with my magic like a rock, only to let him flop down and hit the ground at a decent height that won't kill him. After all this shit that happened, I need a stress reliever and take what I can get. Letting him spin like a rag doll, he hit the ground one last time before letting out a small groan. Landing next to him, I went back Inside the little hamlet only to find everyone back here, a small basket on Renoir's back as Kanaranx was slapping his knee at a joke I would assume only Frank would tell him. Clearing my throat, all eyes were on me as walked down the stairs and-Oh god, what the hell Is that smell?

''Okay, either someone's being eating shit or taking a bath In the stuff, so who's the culprit so I can throw them In a tank of disinfectant?'' I held my nose at the brimy, stank scent.

''That would be these potty heads.'' Zareran pointed to my group.

''And what compelled you to do all...this?''

''Don't ask, can we please just go home?'' Spike said.

''Yes, we can: all we have to do Is just deliver this peace treaty with the representative and then we finally can go back home.'' I assured.

''Yes!''

Turning to Zareran, I thought for a moment what he did, what I did, and most of all: what I'm going to do.

''You guys, I may have a solution for your troubles: come to Equestria with us, It certainly would be a big Improvement from where you are now plus I can tell you all want revenge for what Azure did to you, as do we. So why not join us In getting payback?''

''You make a valid point, I do want revenge on that bucking traitor, and leaving here would not only be best for me, but for her too.'' He looked to his sister. ''After what you did by breaking us out, saving our lives, and helping rescue my sister: I would be more than honored to follow you, we all would.'' He bowed to me, the rest following suit.

Smiling, this turned out to be a great win for me today. Not only do I have more support to fuck that **** to oblivion, I also got what I came here to, and the best part Is: We can go home after this. No more dank, dark rooms, no more smart asses, no trouble to deal with...at least for a time. Putting the knocked out Pegasus In some rope and getting my newly formed team In order, we had one more thing to deal with. Delivering this peace treaty and returning home.

''Come on guys, let's get to the point: We've always done It this way.''

A Lot To Deal With

Twilight's Pov, Urgent Care:

Waking up, I began to feel slightly better than I've felt lately, however after finding out that I'm pregnant, a lot has happened.  At first I thought this to be a simple Illness and nothing more and paid It no mind, but time has passed and my symptoms have been resembling those of a pregnant mare, only mine feel more concentrated and...primal almost. Having sudden mood swings, strange cravings, stomach aches, and most of all: my hormones have been fluctuating at random Intervals. One minute I feel perfectly fine, and the next I find myself  In my bed with my hoof furiously stimulating my marehood. All of this Is happening so fast and It's a little hard to keep up with It. But even more, I'm not sure If I can do this by myself...become a mother. I'm not by no means thinking of getting an abortion, but It's been such a long time since I performed that spell so I never really considered any risks to be present at the time.

Flashback:

''But why?'' Jamir asked.

''There was a chance to experience how to live a day In your shoes, as you say, so I did It to prove to you how strong our bond Is.''

''Well, If what you say Is true and I am pregnant, what are you prepared to do about It?''

''What I have to, no matter what, It's just I never expected to be a...a Father.'' He said.

''As long as we have the support of our friends and do this right, we'll make fantastic parents, don't you think?'

''...Of course.'' He smiled.

Flashback End:

That's what he said, but here I am alone to deal with this burden by myself. The girls could help and while they have done all they can to ease my troubles, we all know one thing that's a fact: Jamir's gone: so Is Spike, Frank, Iron and the royal guards. We've given up searching for them and pretty much everypony knows by now that the future co-ruler of the New Lunar Republic Is dead. I...just can't accept this. He has to be out there, he just has to be! He wouldn't abandon us: his marefriends, town, principles, or most of all his child. Staring down at the plain hospital bed, I heard the door open and saw the doctor come In to perform our weekly check-up.

''Hello, Ms. Sparkle, I trust you are doing well?'' The brown unicorn asked.

Blowing a strand of my loose mane out of the way, I basically said what was on my mind.

''Not good, not really good: I really wish this empty pain In my heart would go away or be resolved.'' I sighed.

Prepping his materials and giving a comforting smile, the doctor got to work as I was left to wallow In my suffering, but I have to stay positive, yeah just look to the bright side of this. Everything'll get better.

A Loving, Yet Painful Reunion

Love, Hate, And Hurt:

“Defensiveness is usually someone silently screaming that they need you to value and respect them in disguise. When you look for deeper meanings behind someone’s pain you can then begin to heal not only yourself, but others.”

Shannon L. Alder

Jamir's Pov...En Route To Home:

''Damn, after getting thrown In jail, exposed to stereotypes, trying to break out, getting thrown In solitary and being drugged, then to only break out and capture the warden and help the group of rebels that tried to kill us out of jail with us while rescuing a Infant child and delivering a peace treaty to prevent a wide scale war...I'm tired as hell.'' Frank breathed out.

Letting out a chuckle at how quickly he said that, our goal was finally done after all this time and It only took a month longer than expected. But I can definitely side with him on all that we did. Dealing with the Griffon King wasn't as bad as originally thought beforehand, In fact: he turned out to be mellow about the whole thing, hey at least we got It signed however the nature of doing so took a very slow turn.

Flashback, Griffon Palace:

Pulling the curtains, the first thing I noticed was the Initial feel of the room: calm and serene. Seeing a long hallway room with guards on either side. Massive windows In rows of three sat on either wall, long purple drapes hanging down and a velvet carpet along the floor leading to a Greek-like thorne where the king sat, a rather bored look on his face. Moving up, I got a better look at just who I was dealing with. A pale brown and tan coat added to the red scarf weaved around his neck with a Insignia, small crown, and gold plated chestplate. Everyone else walked up and bowed, me and the representative High Point greeted the king.

''Your majesty: I would first like to thank you for seeing us on such short notice, You have our eternal gratitude. The original deadline was to be a month ago, but due to some complications I would not want you to worry about happened, better late than never right?'' I asked.

He looked at us with a face that said: I could just be here making a sandwich at this point, yes I'm that bored. Anyways, High Point pulled the treaty out of her satchel and presented It to the king who took with a lazy hand. Looking over the contract for a few minutes, his eyes widened a bit with Interest. Clearing his throat and calling for a guard, a bottle of Ink and a quill was brought to him.

''Uh, your majesty?'' High Point asked.

Within a few minutes, he signed the document, put a stamp on It and handed It back to us In a matter of seconds. Looking behind me, my team had the same look as me. Then he spoke.

''I signed your treaty because I know for a fact that you're not going to leave without having It signed, so you may go back home assuming you have transportation means, and If not: a carriage will be waiting for you. That concludes my business with you so leave.'' We were shooed away.

Flashback End:

While that was nothing like I expected It to be, we did what we needed to with minimal trouble. Sitting back and looking out at the warm embracement of the sun, I felt something I've not felt In months: homesick. Looking over to everyone else, they were either asleep or copying me. Being locked away for all that time sure never made me homesick, but I guess It caught to me now as I cannot wait to get back though another Issue or should I say hurdle will be right at my doorstep. Dealing with that Bitch Azure Is on the top of my list, right after reuniting with the girls and avoiding the death hugs by Luna, Fluttershy, and Pinkie. Wait. That gave me an Idea. It can work, but I'll need everyone to be on board. Thinking for a minute, I nodded to myself and addressed everybody.

''Guys.'' I motioned towards the group I came with. ''I know we're all excited to get home, but how about we mix things up a bit?''

''How?'' Spike yawned.

''Well, we're gonna have to pass by Canterlot to get to Ponyville, and no doubt Luna and Celestia will come, horns blazing If they saw me, so I was thinking about me, Valiant and Flashing putting up a barrier strong enough to mask us.''

''But why go to all that trouble, they'll find out given enough time.'' Zareran brought up.

''True, but I want to surprise all of them: They must all think we're dead, and while I'd prefer to just be direct, It might not be the best option at this point.''

''Okay, but how'll this work?'' Frank asked.

Good point, we need some kind of scapegoat to shift their attention long enough. But who can I pick here?

''...High Point.'' I chose.

''That's stupid: they'll know we're here If you send me.'' The unicorn replied. Looking at Renoir, Battering, and Kanaranx, I had something.

''Not If we send you five saying you 'brought her back.' It's worth a shot, right?''

''Eh.'' The collective reply came.

Face-palming, I shook my head and we got to work putting up a magic field around us, hoping my Idea would work.

5 minutes later:

Okay, so the spell's done, not we just to get by without screwing this up. Passing some trees, slowly the castle of Canterlot came Into my line of sight. Being somewhat giddy, I quickly composed myself and waited as It would take a minute to get there.

25 minutes later:

''Are you feeling what I'm feeling right now?'' Frank asked me.

''Absolutely.'' Iron and Spike agreed. Going along the mountainside, nothing out of the ordinary occurred, so It must be working. Hooray for my Idea. We just dropped off High Point along with Zareran's group to put together phase 1. As for us, when we get to Ponyville, I've already got that problem covered. It'll be easy, at least I hope so. With nothing else to do except for wait, me and Iron performed some routine maintenance on the Vindicator as best we could with what little we have and Frank played a game of 20 questions to pass the time.

''Is It bigger than a barn?'' Valiant tried.

''Nope.'' Frank said.

''Does It move?'' Spike followed up.

''Yes, but It has no head, eyes, or legs.''

''Ugh, how many questions do we have left? This Is really starting to get under my scales.'' Spike huffed.

''2 left, and It's not really that hard: just take this from a different perspective.'' Frank laughed. After numerous attempts, they still couldn't figure It out? I got It after the 5th question, but I've better things to do, like checking the strength of my hammer and clean out my barrel, and that's not the worst: I might to revise a couple parts, but that's why I made spare parts. Holding the gray and deep green compact weapon, It just yelled: fix me. Looking outside the window, my day brightened up as the small town of Ponyville were In my sights.

''Guys, we're almost-''What!?'' Valiant yelled. ''How the buck can It be a wheelbarrow?''

''Yea!'' Spike crossed his arms.

''I don't have to answer that, but the fact remains: na-na-nana-nah! I won the game, and you didn't!'' He teased. Looking back out, I told the Griffons pulling out carriage to go a little faster as I told the guys how close we were to which they all smiled. Laying back, my thoughts went a certain song's lyrics:

''Just hold on we're going home.'' I whispered.

High Point's Pov, Canterlot:

Walking through the halls of the castle reminded of the old times, but what bugged me was nopony really noticing me. You'd figure the Equestrian representative would get a little more attention. Going to the door, the guards opened the door and we proceeded In, the princesses sitting on their respective thrones with almost forced smiles. Looking up at us and gasping, they got up and starting speaking profusely. Letting them cool down, I answered their Initial question 'truthfully.'

''I'm afraid not: these are the ones who aided me In escaping, but there Is a more pressing matter that I would think to merit your attention. There Is a...situation In Ponyville and the ponies there need your help.'' I said.

''What ever Is the problem?'' Princess Luna asked.

''Unclear at the moment, but It has been requested that you head to the Golden Oaks Library as that seems to be the epicenter.''

Getting up, the princesses charged their horns and put on their game faces and said: ''Let us quell this dilemma.'' before teleporting all of us.

Back to Jamir's Pov, Ponyville:

Now I'm pretty sure we look like a bunch of creeps just hiding out like this, but I don't think nopony can see us. Taking a quick look out the alley, I had a perfect view of the library, nopony In sight. Good, now this won't take much effort then. Dashing out, we made a beeline for the library, all seemingly calm.

20 feet away.

Everything's good.

15 feet away...

Still nothing yet.

8 feet away...

It doesn't look like much has changed here.

3 feet away...

Ok, I just pray nopony's actually Inside or I'm going to be seriously pissed.

1 foot away...

''Go, go, go!'' I whispered, holding the door to try and keep this covert.

Made It.

''Now that's taken care of: what about the girls?'' Spike sat down.

''High Point should have already told Tia and Lulu, so they should be here any minute, and as for the girls: Derpy should be able to get them all here with a little hustle, beside I told her to tell them It's an emergency so they ought to be here within the few minutes or so.'' I walked up the stairs to my room to find It just how I left It. I smiled and took off my Armour and weapons and set them on the bed, seeing as I wouldn't be needing those right now. Going over to the ornate dresser and running my hand through the wood grain, I felt at home again. Hearing the guys come up, I turned around and look at them.

''So what now?'' Iron asked.

''You guys might want to get cleaned up: I didn't say so on the way here, but you guys all smell like shit and that's gonna be a major turn off for Lavender.'' I pointed to Frank.

''We don't smell that bad-Ohhhkay we do.'' He grimaced.

''How can we get cleaned up In a few minutes?'' Valiant pondered. Opening my hand, I summoned a bottle of dish detergent from downstairs and shoved In their general direction. Heading over to my dresser for some fresh clothes, I simply snapped my fingers and said: ''It's called soap and water, you might want to be quick by the way.'' I produced the same effect on them. Poof!

Grabbing a change of clothes, I rushed towards the shower quick as I could to try and cleanse myself.

5 minutes and a Impromptu song later:

''Much better.'' I sighed, putting on some laxing clothes(large black with extra long sleeves and a pair of black and red striped pajama bottoms) and walking down the stairs, waiting for the rest of the guys.

Poof!

''So now do you feel cleansed, because I sure do.'' I laughed. Looking at them, they each looked better and 'Sniff!' smell okay. But the manner of their clothing could be worse, If not just barely clinging on the edge of sanitary. Since Spike really didn't wear clothes to begin with, he just charred his old rags, same for Iron and Valiant: they weren't wearing much except for some light Armour which they discarded. And Frank must have some real balls to just be almost stark naked but his modesty was preserved by a light blue pair of boxers.

''There's some extra clothes In my dresser you can have.'' I gestured upstairs.

''I was going to do that anyways, thank you very much.'' He sped up the stairs and not a minute later came back down In something similar to me, only gray.

''Now this Is how you should good clothes.'' He smirked and sat on base of the stairs, the others just taking a seat anywhere.

''So how long you think we got?''

''...About a few seconds at best, so put on your game face, I know for a fact this will hurt.'' I picked up a book and skimmed through It.

''What Is the problem Derpy?'' I heard Rainbow mutter from outside.

''Yea, I don't see anything wrong here.'' Pinkie added.

Looking at each other, we nodded and listened some more, only to hear a teleportation spell go through and hear Lulu's voice ask:''Where Is the problem?''

Hearing Derpy hold back a snicker, she told the girls to go Inside for the real surprise. At that time between the door opening, I only had thing to say:

Showtime.

A series of gasps echoed out the room as before I could blink, 8 blurs tackled me to the ground with a force I've never felt before, my head hitting the wood floor.

''JAMIR!'' They all yell, squeezing me In bone-crushing hug. But It didn't stop there, the girls continued their assault by rubbing, kissing, and licking all over me, my body reacting to the pleasure In earnest. Groaning as I barely could formulate two words, Twilight tongue kissed me, taking complete of the battle Inside our mouths. Swirling her larger tongue around my much smaller one, my breathing became erratic and quick, my eyes closing and just saying: Fuck It.

''Uh should we go? High point asked the group.

''To where?'' The jet black dragon was desperately trying to peek.

''Out to eat or anywhere but here: come on let's go.'' Frank took hold of a stiff Spike and pushed the rest out of the door.

Coming back to me, the girls were not giving a Inch as Aj  ripped off my bottoms whilst Rainbow took care of my shirt.

''Damn, I just put that on.'' I complained.

Feeling somepony get from off my arm, I heard Luna say: ''Hold on tight everypony: this space will not do.'' She fired up her horn and teleported us.

Poof!

Seeing a quick flash of white light, I was In the air for a second before plopping down on a large bed. Using my peripheral the obvious place had to be Celestia's bedchambers seeing as I already know what Luna's looks like. Breaking away from our kiss, Twilight and the girls looked at me with a combination of emotions: Happiness, anger, slight concern, and most of all: primal lust. Sweating a bit, I chuckled as the atmosphere got kinky. And not that regular kinky bs. I'm talking about mega BDSM extreme reverse rape swimsuit and very 'Inquisitive' kinky. Yea, I'm gonna be preoccupied for a day...or three. Resigning to my fate, I sat back let the girls do whatever they pleased: not like I could or would stop 8 horny mares.

''I don't know where you've been or why you've gone as long as you have, but you're going to explain later, but as for now: We're going have our way with you and. Make. You. Fuck. Us. Senseless. And vice versa.'' Twilight licked my ear lobe. Damn, this may be just a bit more than I can chew off, but It's passionate sex, well more like 20%. Or 10. Maybe 5? Nah, not even a little bit.

Ugh.

If Getting Laid Is Wrong,I Don't Want To Be Right!

Can't fight this, had to happen

"Wait!" I tried to calm down the eight horny mares down. Stopping for a minute, they looked at me said: "No!"

With them making quick work of my disappearance, the only thing I could do was to just groan as I felt my legs get pinned by Rainbow and Pinkie as they along with the others went back to licking over me, my throbbing member standing to attention as I heard Luna chuckle as I got a second to relax.

"Love, you have worried us all so much, so you can understand why you're putting us to the point of barely containing ourselves after first seeing you, all you need to do Is sit there and let us have fun with 'this.' Agreed?" She slowly engulfed my dick In her mouth, only to suck and lick vigorously.

"Hold on, I-"mmph!" My protest was cut off by Celestia's flank on my face.

"She I-Is right, you k-know-Ahh!" Celestia moaned as I lapped her overlapping core.

Tasting her honey once again had me slurping and kissing her pussy with gusto. Going back to Luna's blowjob, I felt two more tongues join the fray with two sets of teeth biting my nipples and both my hands being coated with something wet, warm, and fleshy.

With Luna sucking my tip from the shaft up, Aj and Pinkie shortly joining with massaging my balls, and the stimulus of my nipples, I was ready to release. Luna must have red my thoughts as sped up even faster.

A massive wave of my seed spurt out of my tip with the sound of swallowing present. At the same time, a flood of fluids got In my mouth and on my hands. Feeling Tia get off me, I looked up to see four small vials of  'enhancement and growth.'

For me, this was already beyond my power to stop, so after downing  a bottle each, I smirked and asked: "Who's first?"

Pinkie, Rainbow and Rarity held nothing back as they got into the tower position and gave me a clear view of their marehoods, each giving off a pleasing scent. Putting one tip to Pinkie's center and the other to Rainbow's rear while lightly probing Rarity's clit: I dove In at the same time.

A gasp of pleasure was heard from the girls I relished this and slowly began to thurst,  with Pinkie's moist center meeting my tip along with the tightness of Rainbow's cavern clutching me forcefully, but still felt lovely. Hearing Rarity let out a whinney from me nipping at her clit that only added to the taste of her blueberry flavored arousal. Gong slowly, I was preparing to fuck the living daylights of these mares, but they beat me to the punch with: "Go faster!" Rainbow yelled.

"Oh, I Intend to, you slutty mares." I  growled.  Pulling back until both of my tips remained, I slammed back Into them with more force, the moans coming from the girls as I held nothing back and pounded Rainbow and Pinkie's slits to pieces. After a few minutes of thrusting and licking, the end was In sight as their marehoods began clutching desperately. Chuckling, my movements only Increased.

''Cumming!'' I yelled.

''Inside, please!/Do It, please!''

Going back to pleasing Rarity's center, a groan escaped my lips as I released again, holding on to the girls for dear life as let loose my seed and my mouth was met with a splash of fluids. Swallowing as I pulled out, the labored breathing of the girls brought a thought to my mind as I shifted over to Fluttershy and Aj were patiently waiting for me, well more like somewhat performing foreplay on each other, but counted to me. Laying down, Flutters brought her weight down on my shaft, Aj taking care of the other. Reacquainting with Aj's sturdy, but warm Insides with Fluttershy's being more of a gentle type.

''You girls ready?''

They moaned a bit, but nodded. Locking Aj In a passionate kiss that lasted a few seconds, she began to lift herself up and down, bringing a shiver down my spine due to my sensitivity. Gritting my teeth, the urge to go wild really didn't be appear as on any day: Applejack could 'outride' me so I let her take the lead. On the other hand, Flutters didn't hesitate as went at her own pace with a look of euphoria along with a small line of drool hanging on her mouth as she voiced her pleasure of grinding and pistoning my tip against the slightly opening lips of her womb.

''What's the matter, cat got your tongue?'' Aj teased at my face of self-restraint.

''N-No, I-I'm fine.'' A squeal came out.

''Uh-huh, ya don't have ta hold back: Ah'm an Apple so Ah can take It.'' She slowed down and grinded her clit on my stomach. Well, she Is Insisting, so why not oblige her and let her have at It? Quickly changing our position, I merely looked at my little farm pony and said: ''Warned you.'' Thrusting back and forth at the right angle, my tip was constantly hitting against her g-spot while my fingers rubbed against her clit with such speed, a fire could probably be started from the friction.

''Ahh! No, Don't do that!'' She moaned.

''You said not to hold back, so this Is what you get.'' I smirked. With how they are acting, this should be over relatively quick. Moving back and forth, the girls moaned my name I took In each feeling I was experiencing, all fueling me to move as fast as possible to get the best result possible. Looking at both their faces plastered with ecstasy did wonders for me. Sweat poured from our bodies, hair was strewn about, and the overall mood of the room was a type of cloud that hazed and scrambled my thoughts as I let the pleasure consume me as I only resorted to grunts and growls.

''Rahhh!'' I snarled, putting all my weight down on the two mares, another load gushed out my tips with a scream filling my ears. Staying In that position for a few minutes until I slumped over on my back panting with a small of puddle of my spunk forming out of Aj and Flutters on the covers.

''POOF!''

''Gulp!''

''Huh?'' I looked up to see three awesome, but somewhat frightening sights that made me jump up and ask: ''Uh...'' To really get a clear picture of this: Celestia was wearing a very skimpy, but sexy pink nurse's outfit complete with the cap, skirt, and a stethoscope while Luna was wearing a blue swimsuit that hugged her curves In all the right places and even had a cute little symbol of her cutie mark on the chest. And Twilight...looked perfectly fine, nothing out of the ordinary except she has a fucking dick jutting out above her marehood, twitching even now and then. Okay, this may be a bit too much for me to handle: Tia and Lulu I should have no problem with but mmmm...Twi may be a obstacle I'll just have to get by, This just better not hurt. Moving closer to me, Luna looked at me with lust, as did Twi and Tia. Before I could blink, Tia already hanged my hands In the air and brought me to my knees with her magic as Luna got In front of me and Twi behind me, my breathing picking up awful quick.

''H-Hold on now girls, don't you think this might be a little-''Shh.'' Tia cooed. ''We'll take care of everything, you just need to sit back and fall In throes of our love.'' She brought Into a french kiss I automatically lost with Luna took both my members In her mane and gave me a hair job as something wet and hot touched me back there. Turning my head best I could, Twilight displayed a look of what I call rage lust.

''Mmmph,Mph! Mmmph, Mmmph!'' Which roughly translated to: ''Twilight, no! I'm not ready for this!''

Breathing heavily and staring down at her new appendage, she rubbed It with a hoof which got a moan out of her. Her mane was disheveled, eyes focused on me, and only said this before doing the deed: ''No, I'm sorry: I can't hold back any longer! Besides. I want to know how you feel when you rut us.'' She lined herself up and pushed In slowly. Groaning and screaming Into the kiss, It felt weird to say the least. At first, I reflexively clenched, but relaxed as her stomach met my back.  It feels like Twilight's Inside of me and...I kinda like It. The twitching feels a little awkward and she feels so hot and big. Blowing out a puff of hot air, I calmed my thoughts and pretty much let what happened next happen. Pulling back to her tip, I felt a warming sensation disappear, only for her shape to be made out as she picked the pace and broke out In a full thrust.

As with Luna, she used her mane to stroke and tease me as I could only moan Into the kiss with Tia. Back when I made love to Luna and Tia after the night of the gala, she told me that during her Imprisonment on the moon, she found some 'kinks' to mess around with and move her mane In very creative ways, I would say. Anyways, she manipulated It to rub and flick against my tips which got a moan out of me where as Twi was being caring, and by that I mean she's thrusting with a good rhythm and actually pleasing me. Now I'm pretty sure how the girls feel to be on the receiving end. I was tingling all over, getting light-headed from the kiss, and couldn't ask for anything better to happen than right now. Moaning at how Luna played with my sack, Celestia sooned joined In the act. Feeling Twilight move faster behind me told me all I needed to.

''I-I'm feeling something, something amazing!'' Twilight proclaimed. Feeling her stop and shake, I suddenly felt something discharge from her tip and flood Into me, thought It felt like warming and comforting, yet a bit disgusting and weird but It's somepony I love and trust completely so that counts for more. At the same time, I let another groan out as I ejaculated again right Into Luna and Tia's mouth, their eager tongues picking up any stray traces of my seed. Feeling Twi pull out, I looked over to still see that look of sex on their face. They were not planning on stopping and neither am I. A bright light filled my eyes as Tia and Luna changed outfits again.

Laying down with a smile, Luna wore her ever so arousing blue lingerie which she pulled open her pussy lips and let me see the Inside of her: Clit stiff as a bone, leaking fluids and winking at me, beckoning me. Giving me a seductive smile, she ordered me: ''Your Princess of the night demands that you fuck her senseless.'' Swallowing a lump In my throat, my still erect members twitched from her words. I took hold of her hips and slammed Into her, a moan of pleasure coming from both of us.

''Ahh! Yes, I've missed this!'' She moaned.

''S-Same here.'' I started out slow and took my time and relished the feeling, but then soon broke out Into a full on primal bangfest.

''Yes! Yes! Yes! Faster!''

''As you wish!'' I replied.

Going for the most pleasure possible, I heft Luna up fuck her by holding by her flanks with my hands as I repeatedly pounded her center, howls of pleasure coming from Luna.

''Rut me harder, harder! Claim me! Mark me! Make me yours! It's all yours: My flank, my plothole, marehood, mouth all belong to you! My whole body Is yours!'' She yelled.

''Fine, you slutty mare: I'll make you drown In pleasure!'' I pushed her against a wall and began to french kiss her and furiously stroke her horn which she clamped down even harder on my dicks and moan In our mouths. I held nothing back as my legs started to go weak, our bodies shaking, and was feeling hot and bothered. Breaking away from the tongue fight, Luna let a squeal as I reached around and probed her asshole.

''N-No, not t-t-there!'' She groaned, her tongue lolling on the side of her mouth.

''So sexy.'' I thought.

''Luna, I'm cumming!''

''Go, let It out! I want your seed Inside of me!''

We came together for one last kiss as I came, filling her core to the brim as her moans died down. I must have banged her so hard, she soiled herself as a puddle of something was dripping on the floor. Putting a hand to her marehood, I curiously had a taste. ''You dirty mare.'' I whisper In her ear.

''I-I'm 'Gulp!' sorry...'' She went silent after that.

Bringing her over to the bed and pulling out, her small marehood was plugged up, a little bulge noticeable. Celestia and Twi on the other hand, looked very Impatient. I was begging to get a bit winded, but nonetheless decided to go for a more creative Idea.

Using my magic, I place Twi on top of Celestia and tied their hooves together, making the sight before me getting me even more aroused. Taking a hold of Twi's member, I forcefully shoved It In Tia's core, a moan coming her. lining up with her and Tia's marehoods, I thrusted Inside. Starting things off fast, the combination of their juices served as a lubricant which only made our lovemaking all the more sweeter. Thrust, Thrust, Thrust was all I did. All I thought. All I wanted. Growling, I got ready to release yet again.

''I'm cumming! Again!'' I yelled.

''Inside please!'' They both yelled. Yelling as loud as possible, I emptied myself and basked In the sensitivity and splendor as I slowly exited them, falling on the bed. Finally getting a chance to breathe, the sight before me was truly a marvel. I did this, the girls were all pleased. Go me. Once that was taken care of.

''A shower and something to eat: here I come.'' I got up and tried to steady myself, only to get thrown back on the bed, the girls all up again.

''The shower can wait, but If we are still 'hungry', darling.'' Rarity said.

''But I thought you were all 'satisfied'.'' I spoke carefully.

''...That's the other stomach!'' They tackled me back on the bed with lust In their eyes. You know what? Screw It, I'm home so pretty sure I can afford to take a long needed 'vacation.

''Just hope I'll survive.'' I thought before Pinkie caught me In a kiss and I heard some magic and a very Interesting pile of 'toys' that were gonna be used, one way or the other.

Follow The Leader

Back To The Library, Right After The Girls And Jamir Have Their 'Fun', Frank's Pov:

''Uh should we go? High point asked us.

''To where?'' Kanaranx was trying to peek.

''Out to eat or anywhere but here: come on let's go.'' I took hold of Spike and pushed the rest outside.

''Well...that was um: something.'' Iron said.

''Yea, so why not take our mind off of that by going somewhere else?'' High Point wanted to change the subject. And I could agree with her, not that what happened In there was not sexy and stimulating, just I have manners. But I guess we could go and eat, that crap we had back In prison was not really up to my palate as I would rather have a nice juicy steak and some french fries, but this Is Ponyville, they won't have meat just laying around. So deciding on a simple restaurant, we set off with pep In our step to get away from here asap.

5 minutes later:

Sitting down on a bench seat , I enjoyed the feeling of the sun hitting my back. Granted, I'm only wearing pajama clothes, but since we're home, I could really care less. Plus I picked this particular restaurant because I have somepony to apologize and confess to and I'm not ready, but that's why It's called Improv on the spot. Clearing my hair of any dust or crud, I recited my personal mantra: Just do It, rip off that bandage. Seeing just the mare I wanted to came to take our order, however she looked rather glum and depressed. On the Inside, but I can tell she's forcing that smile.

''Welcome to Dine Town, may I take your orders?'' She asked.

''I'll have the hay fries and a glass of your best Apple cider.'' Iron said.

''Make that two, and with a make It a large.'' Valiant chipped In.

''Give me two daisy sandwiches.'' Flashing decided.

''Same.'' Renoir added.

''Mmm, Pancakes and hash browns with some orange juice.'' Battering chose.

''...Do you have any gemstones?'' Spike and Kanaranx asked.

''Afraid not.'' Lavender said.

''Ugh, just cider then.'' Spike groaned.

''Breakfast omelette, strawberry crepe, and a parfait with a small bowl of oatmeal.'' Zareran looked to his sister.

''And I'll have to ask for your best order of refreshments, and for a date.'' I smirked. The second I spoke, she turned her head at me so quick with dilated pupils and gasped.

''Surprised?'' I joked.

She slowly moved towards me, as If seeing a ghost and touched my cheek with her hoof and began to tear up.

''I-Is It really y-you?'' She was baffled.

''Yes, I'm sorry If I made you worry and understand If you're mad, but let this convince you  If this Is real.'' I closed the distance between us and brought our lips together. Is this stupid? Maybe. Is It out of the blue? Not really. Wait, why am I asking myself this? I know what I'm doing.

Our embrace lasted a few moments, but had months of emotions behind It. Breaking away, I whispered something In her ear to which she nodded and went to get our food.

''And just what was that about?'' Kanaranx asked.

''Something you don't know about, but I'll explain later.'' In a few minutes, Lavender came back with our food  and sat down with us, the remains of tears on her face and a smile. With everyone else digging In, I got time to speak with Lavender.

''So where have you been?'' She asked me, concern In her voice.

''Tons of places. A few you might not believe, but It started after we went for a little training session In Canterlot...'' I explained.

''And that's pretty much how we got here. May not be the most exciting way, but at the very least we didn't break too many things or laws.'' I chuckled, though Lavender on the other hand looked angry. For a minute, she looked this way before speaking.

''So Azure double crossed you? Oh when I get my hooves on that on that little hussy she will-''Hold your plans of choking her out; we all want a piece of that pie, but she turned tail like a...what did you call It again?'' Kanaranx asked me.

''Bitch.'' I clarified.

''Like a bitch and now we don't know where she Is.'' He tapped his claws. He Is right on that Idea, but who could track her down? No, wait! I am but a fool as the answer hit me upside the head.

''By a show of hand, claws, or hooves.'' I groaned. ''Who knows how you can track an escapee or In this case, a traitor?''

To my surprise nobody had a clue because they're not thinking like a snake. Elusive, crafty, but there Is one who Is just as much. The Canine. More specifically the Diamond Dogs, they could use their natural talents for good.

''We may have a chance to try and track her down and the Diamond Dogs could be our solution.''

''Diamond Dogs? How long has It been since I've seen one of them?'' The Black dragon held a claw to his face.

Time to find out. Finishing our food, we left outside and waited for Lavender to close up early so we could go and take care our business. Walking through Ponyville barefoot certainly felt the same as with shoes, the warm dirt road heating my feet up. Passing the boutique and Sugarcube corner, our surroundings changed as the chipped rock and dry dirt of the quarry came Into view.

''So do you think Gizmo's given up following Jamir and they've revolted or patiently waiting for him?'' Spike asked as we proceeded through a tunnel. With a grain of salt, I answered his question as they probably wouldn't or they could and then there may be a problem.

''Meh.''

Jumping down, we entered the hall and saw business going by as usual the few times I've been here. The hall was always kinda cool to look at. As we walked down, the path began divide In two and curve up to circle where the entire overlook of the colony could be seen. In the front was a Diamond Dog on the top platform barking orders like a general.

''Come on, let's move It!'' Gizmo yelled.

Well, he seems to know what he's doing.

''Oi, you gonna share that power or take It for yourself?'' I placed my hands on my hips.

''Oh, uh First Lieutenant Graffias! Where have you been and where Is my master?'' He panicked.

''Relax, we've just been occupied, and by that I mean we have a traitor amongst us that's on the loose. As for Jamir, he's...otherwise engaged.'' I decided on that, yea, decided on that.

''And these are?'' He snorted his nose In protest.

''Haha, see funny story: these are the criminals that ambushed us, then got high and went through crazy nightmares, broke out, forged a treaty and a lot more crap I'm too lazy to talk about.''

''But why are they here?'' He asked.

''Jamir offered them a second chance to make up for the crimes they did and help get revenge on that bitch Azure for kidnapping us and almost killing us, so we figured they should come here to suit up and join the ranks.'' I summed up.

''And how do you propose we do that?''

''You guys may be the best option we have. With you know who busy, I'm filling In for him and organizing a search party, so let's get to It. Chop chop.'' He looked over the guys before sighing and saying: ''Come with me.''

''Now that you've taken care of that, now what?'' Lavender asked me  as they guys followed after Gizmo to the armory. Turning around and walking back out at a brisk pace, I responded with: ''Just us, so I'd figure If we could...um go on that date?'' I blushed a bit. Smiling, she nuzzled my hand and looked at me with happy eyes.

''Let's go.'' She ran ahead of me.

''Wait up!'' I tripped and scurried up.

''Last one to Sugarcube Corner buys!...'' She began booking.

''That's gonna be you!''

A Lesson In Health, Kids

Wait, Are You Serious?

Jamir's Pov, Three Days Later:

After fucking the girls senseless for three days straight, though Lulu and Tia had to be partially excluded so they could raise the sun and moon, otherwise this would have been a looong day. Now I know with all my might...I am so sore. The sex was amazing, not gonna lie: but With Twilight and Pinkie being that rough back there seriously chaffed my behind. So much so that I might need a Ice pack. Speaking of Twi for a moment, we all were taking a group bath when she as well the others looked at me with complete straight faces. I stopped washing my hair and looked at them. Something tells me what's about to be said Is nothing to joke about.

''Jamir, I'm sorry we didn't tell you this before we made love, but you can see why we did what did...for so long and so fiercely.'' She blushed to which I chuckled a bit.

''But there Is something I need to tell you that we-she gestured to the girls. know and you don't so since I only know how to be direct, I'll guess that-''Oh for Buck's sake: Jamir, she's trying to say she's pregnant!'' Rainbow Interrupted.

...Oh my god.

Slowly getting up and moving towards her, Twi began to back away In fear. Her back hitting the edge of the path, she had nowhere to go as I took hold of her hoof and was silent for a moment. Then I spoke: ''A-Are you serious?''

She nodded and looked down to the water. ''I-I'm sorry I didn't tell you, but with you being gone and me doing the spell, and stressing over what to do, I couldn't take the strain anymore! I...'Sniff!' even considered for a moment to h-have It-I cut her rants of panic off with a kiss. Tears streaming down our faces, her anguish, as well as the girls's was felt by me. Feeling her pull away, I brought my hand to her head and brought us deeper In our kiss, It soon turning to a small tongue battle where I took control this time and gently caressed her and let her know that she would have nothing to worry about. Breaking away, a string of saliva broke off as she blushed and looked scared.

''Twilight, don't you ever say anything like that ever again, you hear me? I understand completely why your actions reflected your feelings and I nor the girls blame you for doing that. In no period of time do I want to see the mares that I love In distress and I am left powerless to do anything because I will find a way. B-but you've done something for me I thought Impossible and trust when I say you have made me the proudest man In the universe. I, we can have a family and raise It together, but also care for my child the most.'' I cried.

''No matter what happens, nothing will ever happen to you, Tia, Lulu, Aj Dashie, Flutters, Pinks, Rarity, or my child as long as I am present.'' I rubbed a hand over her stomach.

Jumping Into my arms, she and girls joined In a group hug, letting all of our emotions out. This has to be the best news any man could ever get and I swear on (you should never do this, but It's just to reinforce a point.) my Grandmother's life that I will be the best man and father to this child I can possibly be. After a few minutes of embracing each other, we got back to washing each other off and ventured for some food.

10 minutes later, The Castle Dining Hall:

Getting back Into my lax clothes, even though I had to conjure up a new pair; we climbed Into our seats at the table and sat down and waited for the servants to bring us our food. With everypony 'taken care of', I had some explaining to do about my sudden disappearance. Sighing, I began to recall exactly what happened when I heard a voice that Instantly brought back memories, and none of them were good.

''Excuse me, where Is my food?'' I heard the arrogant prince request. To be honest, I'd rather deal with this joker than be In prison, but I can't really change my choice now. With him sitting down, he did something that shocked even me. he greeted everypony calmly and like a gentleman, even me. Seems like that, ahem little chat we had back at the gala made him turn his demeanor around exponentially. On the Inside, I marveled at how he changed with the most violating measure I took to be the feather to break his back. A few minutes passed by as we received our food and the girls at while I feasted.

''So where are we going?'' I looked around at our surroundings.

''To the medical facility to get the latest news about the child to be.'' Luna said, with a smile on her face. That makes sense after all; checkups are frequent with pregnant women however I don't know If pony and human cycles are the same, but that doesn't matter: as long as It's healthy and well then we'll take the necessary steps to proceed. Turning a corner, a door with the words medical bay were In red, two day guards In front of the doors. Passing through another door, a team of unicorn doctors were conversating. Clearing my throat as they looked at me, I waved.

''Ah, Princesses.'' They bowed. ''Ms.Sparkle, you are here for your weekly checkup, no?'' A green unicorn mare asked.

She nodded, pointed a hoof to me and said: ''And this Is Jamir, the father.'' She blushed. Now that I'm hearing that out loud, It sounds that more wonderful, but also says a lot too. Twilight got up on the bed and the doctors got to work. In a few minutes of taking samples, listening for heartbeats, and other things, they compiled their results and told us.

''Everything seems to check out, though It seems the bone structure Is weaker than normally so we consider you take some supplements and your foal should be bouncing around healthy and happy In about...3 months.''

That sounds nice, so turns out that-wait, hold the phone. 3 months? That's not right. By the time It rolls out of there, the poor thing should just getting past the embryo stage.

''Uh doctors, are you sure that Is a accurate guess for the deadline? You're off about 6 months.'' I said.

''Why, you must be hard of hearing, my dear boy: the average mare pregnancy Is 5 months.'' The mare got her answer wrong.

''No I am not having hearing loss, but In case It slipped my mind so time ago, but the average deadline for humans Is 9 months with 3 trimesters.'' I reinforced.

''Are you trying to make us look like fools In front of the princesses!?''

''No, I'm just explaining how-ugh. Everypony take a seat: this Is gonna take a minute.'' I groaned. And thus, I began to recollect all of what I know about the marvel of human birth ranging from early signs, mood swings, Increased hormones, weight gain, and most of all: what not to and what to expect. But as I assumed, the topic of food, more specifically meat had shocked the girls a bit, however seeing as I need It to survive I also see Twilight needing to eat It to keep our child healthy.

''That Is preposterous! No mare has ever needed to consume meet In order to help the development process.'' The doctors argued.

''But If Twilight told you, we had sex while she was human that therefore constitutes something. There could possibly be a gene mutation and the density of the bone Is different, or a change In the chromosomes, perhaps the cell was rewritten by a change In the Immune system or even DNA expression mutation...what?'' I look to see the doctors with slack jaws.

''Anyway, my point Is you should at least consider this, I would never tell you anything If I didn't think It to be true.'' I said. Twi looked In my eyes, no trace of doubt present as she faced everypony and said: ''I trust your judgment, so how can we do this?'' She asked. A simple question with varying answers, but I'll be damned If we're heading back to the Griffon Kingdom, had enough of that place. So my other options would either be the Zebras or Dragons and luckily I have two people who'll tell me all I need to. Walking out, we proceeded out and discussed possible plans. But first I'm gonna have to secure Ponyville before anything so If that fly comes to far Into the web, she'll get stuck so she and Exacalibolg may get better acquainted. But right at that moment, I felt a sudden tinge wash over me like a aura of mistakes and shame. Sighing, I formulated a decent Idea of what or who In this case might be doing.

''You just better not get yourself killed or I'm bringing you back and doing It all over again myself.'' I huffed.

Suit Up

3rd Pov, Canterlot Express Back To  Ponyville:

Sighing as he sat back, Jamir looked outside the window and admired the vast landscape of Canterlot fade In the distance. For the time being, nothing had plagued his mind: no Griffons to fight or prisons to break out of. Merely relaxing with the mares he loved so much as the ride back to home would be a while. Taking a look at Twilight, she laid her head In his lap, the faint, yet almost silent sounds of her breathing slowly made him smile and rub her mane to which she sighed In happiness. The mare before had gone through a lot during his Incarceration and still Is experiencing the loss of all that precious time wasted, thinking he was taken from this world. But not even Death himself would prevent him from these ponies as It would be Impossible to live without them. Her choice of words back In Canterlot put In a thought to his head.

''We'll make fantastic parents, don't you think?''

No doubt was placed, no second thought spawned, nothing. This man was only a cub In this giant puzzle called Equestria though he has seen and done many things In his time on Earth that some would revolt at the thought of. Consistent worry and trust Is placed upon him and yet...he lets not It control him. Propping up his pillow, he sat and listened on the conversation Rainbow and Aj were having as the sudden urge to clips his ever growing long fingernails came to him.

''And how much do you think It'll be this time?'' The cyan pegasus snickered.

''Ah don't know, but one thing's for sure: hate to be In his horseshoes.'' The farmpony sipped a glass of juice.

Now that sounded like a prank, and normally while Pinkie has been known to be a more proficient prankster, Aj often dabbled In harmless pursuits from time to time. Catching only half of their chat, It appears some poor stallion name Caramel will be In for a rude awakening. The chugging of the train's whistle along with the lively atmosphere did wonders. Feeling a bit parched and calling for the food tray, he opted for a cup of some Ginseng tea with a lemon wedge: his favorite type of the herbal elixir. Taking the hot cup In one hand, he added two sugarcubes and stirred patiently. Blowing on his tea, he slowly brought It to his lips and sipped, the hot liquid running down his throat and warming his core, fighting back any bouts of coldness.

''Ah, that's the stuff, be there one thing nobody can take from besides you girls, It's tea.'' His thought sounded a little far-fetched, sure: but Jamir has always been a...somewhat stubborn person when It comes to material Items. When the tables turn on him (which Is always), he does not get upset nor angry. He bends the rules however small they are. Would he openly admit that? Perhaps not. The only things he can admit Is that road? A waste of hot air he obviously did not want to deal with.

As his body let out a Involuntary sneeze, he quickly blessed himself and finished his tea, wiping his mouth with a napkin.The human Is known for a lot of great deeds and mentions, but none could even amount to having his offspring. Someone to be a proper role model to. To have his own flesh and blood, but most of all: someone to call him Father. How he came to the conclusion that one day about ending his life after a very embarrassing moment, only to cry his eyes out and come within arm's reach of death, but falter. Why? Nobody, pony, god, demon, king, queen, knight, tyrant, or divine force may even know exactly why and damn sure how Jamir thinks, but one thing that Is known to all Is one thing that cannot be forgotten as their very life may depend on It: No other can do It but him. Running a hand through Twilight's lavender mane, he sighed and only said one last thing before taking a brief respite.

''I'm ready.''

Frank's Pov, Everfree Forest:

''Ugh, out of my way vine.'' I yanked another piece of hanging plant down. Now In hindsight, this could be worse, but I actually thought Azure could be In there, but apparently the Manticores there would have tried to make work of her and be some Indication of her being there. Seeing the light of the outside world again made me take out my little list and Everfree forest out In bold.

''Okay, strike one and what did we find?'' I asked the group.

''Manticores, a cockatrice, and I think there were a few leeches too.'' Spike shuddered.

Noted.

''So where we off to now?'' FLashing picked some leaves out of her mane.

''To the mountains. I have a hunch that she might be there.'' I decided.

''You sure about that?'' Valiant asked.

Actually no, but at least I'm trying.

''Of course. Let's go.'' I lead on. After that 2 day long trek, we come back out with less than we started with. Oh well, back to the grind.

This Shit Again? Celestia Help Me.

1 of the 7 sins

Jamir's Pov, Ponyville:

Two days have passed since the checkup and Twi has been doing okay, especially since she's agreed to give eating meat a try. With all that I've been told and whatnot, this seems like the best route to undertake for precautions. Sitting down with her and the girls at Lavender's diner to grab a quick bite to eat, I still have this lingering feeling that something bad happened, but I am paying It no mind. Leaning against the the walk-In booth, the atmosphere of the place Is very nice: every since I gave her the funds to open up, she has raked In quite a few customers, so much so that the Cakes ought to be careful. As of that point following my return, based on what the girls told me: everything returned to normal, but I almost flipped when I heard about what Fluttershy did. That alone made me realize how much these mares love and care for me and vice versa. They will never have to feel that way again.

As for the whole peace treaty thing Is concerned? Everything's been signed and all Is beginning to come along but two Issues still remain In play.The warden had to know something, so naturally any Information about Azure had to extracted one way or the other. We(me, Tia, and Lulu) spent about a hour and half of using all the torture methods I could think of: he cracked.

''Okay, okay! I don't know all the details, but she told me about heading to the Dragon Outlands to go and secure a package for something Important! That's all I know, so go ahead and let me-oof! His protest was cut off by me slugging him In the stomach. So that's where she's going? You little snake.

Letting a laugh out, I turned to face Tia and Lulu and said: ''We're done here: what you choose to do with him Is up to you.'' I snickered.

With that nipping away at the back of my mind, I viewed the menu and found the same stuff: no meat whatsoever. Also brings up another thing. The Griffon Kingdom and I do not have fond memories of one another so my best bet would be ask Kanaranx about what he knows In obtaining some meat. But, that can be discussed after we-''Can I take your order?'' Lavender asked me.

Smiling, I settled on a glass of water while the girls got whatever. Looking out the window, I saw something, or rather someone who squashed that low feeling only to replace It with curiosity. Opening the door, Frank along Spike, Vaillant, Iron, and Kanaranx came In looking rather scuffed up and taking a seat. A slightly dazed look In his eyes Informed me of something as he spoke.

Taking a deep breath:''So how are you all doing?''

One way or the other, they might surprised by this.

''Guys, I think we found out where Azure may be next.'' I said.

...

Rushing over and grabbing my shirt collar, Frank so elegantly said: ''Are you fucking serious? Don't be fucking playing with me! Where Is that **** so I can rip her a new one for making go Into the Everfree and-''SLAP!'' He stopped talking to look at me with shock on his face. Holding up a hand, I got a second to register what he said before responding.

''I said think, not, know. However we can't just Ignore this Information either. That's why I'm gonna need local assistance from you.'' I pointed to the black dragon.

''Me?'' He questioned.

Sigh.

''Yes.'' I nodded. ''Based on what I was told, It appears she'll be heading to the Dragon outlands to pick up a package. As to what It Is, no Idea: but the chance to strike has come upon us and will not be wasted. Kanaranx, what can you tell me about the Outlands? anything about political power, rights, traditions, current rulers, anything of that nature?''

The dragon sighed before speaking:

''I was only a baby when I heard stories of the old times. Long ago, when the world as I knew It was young and pure, the earliest known origin of dragon rule was classified as a wolf pack with a Alpha dragon. This was the way of my people for centuries until a mysterious pony came and Informed our predecessors that a change would occur sometime In the future. They Initially scoffed at the Idea, but then not 2 years later, It happened. The Great Dragon War was a result of a petty squabble over the death of nobility: one of our own that sparked the war In the first place. I still remember every little detail. I was only 19 at the time when fate chose me to defend the dragons on the front lines, 100 years ago. The war was brutal. Some much blood, suffering, and trickery and then life chose to take something away from me: my bride to be: Amber. The stress of losing her was too much and pushed my mind to Its limits and broke. For 5 years, I fought to protect and serve. Then the war came to a close and soon after the original way of rule was replaced by the birth of the current rulers: Lord Tamulus Bright Fang and Lady Desane Arc Blight: son and daughter to the previous Lord and Lady Scaleton. Our predecessors along with our once enemy, now ally: the Zebras and 12 dragon scholars came together to form The Proclamation Of Peace In The Face Of  Beak, Claw, Hoof, Paw, and Tooth. This was and still Is the baseline for our laws, principles, rights, and traditions. The most Imperative part of the proclamation are the 10 Ameliorations. Basically, It states In order to gain citizenship and be granted access to the Inner ring of the city, anyone not of descent of the 5 representations must undergo The Descent Of Cold Blood: a fighting competition to prove you are of worthiness to enter otherwise the penalty...Is death. Should Azure be In the Outlands, you'll have to go through the Descent before anything else.'' The dragon was shaking and wiped a tear from his eye.

Taking his claw, I held It and said: ''It's okay, you don't have to remember all that. Sorry for making you relive those moments.'' I soothed.

Wow...that was a lot to learn for today. But one door opens, two more In front of you. But If what Kanaranx said Is true, then I have to go through a fight tournament before I can even get remotely close to her.

''One more question Kanaranx: do dragons eat meat?'' I asked.

''Yea, almost as much we do gemstones: why?''

''Because Azure Light sounds like It could be good should It be made Into a stew.'' I chuckled. Frank picked up on my wording and backed me up.

''Wonderful.''

...You're A Hoarder, Shame!

“You have succeeded in life when all you really WANT is only what you really NEED.”

Vernon Howard

Jamir's Pov, Diamond Dog Mines:

Walking to the metal platform, I looked over and saw things running smoothly: troops are being set straight by Valiant, weapons currently are either being forged or Inspected by Iron, and Gizmo just came up to me with a list of this month's results. The clipboard shows the food supply, materials, and attendance sheet. Giving It back, I turned around and left.

''Everything looks to be In order, Gizmo you know what to do: I'll be back.''

''Where are you off to now?'' He wondered.

Nowhere really, just to Spike's birthday party. Can't believe the kid's growing up on me, seemed like only yesterday he had these preconceived notions of being a hero by following my example. Well, the least I can give him Is one thing that's special, just hope It can do. Coming from underground, the warm sunlight beamed onto my face and made me feel alive. The air was blowing a gentle breeze, picking up leaves every now and then and the dirt path In front of me seemed to stretch for miles until Ponyville slowly came Into the distance. Using a moistened finger, the wind direction was optimal for flying. Bringing my white trimmed and deep green wings out, I took to the skies and let the current guide me as my thoughts about this little party would be fun.

Passing through Ponyville, I saw plenty of ponies with smiles adorning their faces, though Derpy's little crash Into a mailbox prompted me to stop and help her out. Touching down, she looked to have her muzzle trapped. I want to laugh at this, but Its kinda cute to see a klutz every now and then. Crouching down, It looked to be fairly simple.

''Derpy, I'm gonna get you out of there, just stay calm for me okay?''

The trapped mailmare nodded and stopped her attempts to escape as I took In a deep breath and focused my breathing. With one quick snap of my fingers, Derpy was Instantly teleported from the box right next to me with a poof.

''Wow thanks!'' The pegasus gushed.

''No problem, I hate to cut this short, but I do have somewhere to be.'' I brought my wings back out.

''Where?'' She wondered.

''To Spike's party: you wanna come?'' I offered.

''Sure! We can all have fun together!'' She cheered.

This ought to be just that. Birthday parties should as many people as possible to share In the celebration of one's growing up. Taking off to the skies, the bright embrace of Tia's sun warmed us as we headed to the library.

''Come on, Twilight, please?'' I heard Spike's voice plead.

''No! And that's final, mister.'' Twilight's stern side took over. Approaching the door to the library, It sounded like a losing argument. Opening the door, decorations were strewn about, gifts were placed In the corner, a punch bowl replacing the wooden bust,  everypony was here conversating and having fun, and the scaly drake himself slowly backing away from a menacing Twilight with a tub of Ice cream?

''Oh come on, please? It Is my birthday.'' He smirked. Ah, excuses: how I miss you so.

Snatching the pink tub out of his claws, Twi brought the tub Into the kitchen freezer with her magic and stated: ''Sorry, but no. You'll spoil your appetite on just Ice cream, or worst: you can get a stomachache.''

Looks like somepony's got a case.

''Aw, come on Twi: let the kid have his stuff, besides birthdays are once a year.'' I reasoned and smooched her on the cheek.

Sighing, she resigned. ''Fine, but a certain dragon better not come crawling to me about stomach pains.'' The tub reappeared.

''Thanks, Jamir.'' He shoved a clawful of strawberry Ice cream Into his maw. Laughing at the rate he shovelled It In, the punch table called my name as a certain little critter found her way to my shoulders and nipped my ear.

''Master!'' Xenia was ecstatic to see me.

''Hey girl! Sorry If I worried you: didn't mean to.''I ruffled her fur.

''It's ok, Ms. Sparkle told me what happened and I didn't doubt for a second: you're strong master so I never gave up hope. I knew you would come back.'' She smiled.

Patting her head, It felt nice to get reaclimated with her, but that moment got killed as three blurs each stuck to one of my arms and both my legs. Been tackled this much, kinda get used to It plus I know exactly who this Is.

''Hello to you girls.'' I remained still.

''Tackle magnet.'' Frank joked, talking with Lavender and looking lovey-dovey all the more while.

''Jamir, we thought ya had kicked the bucket! For ponies sake, what were ya doing?'' Apple Bloom asked.

''I can never get a break, can I?'' I thought.

Telling the them the kid-friendly version, they Immediately got enthralled with what scare details I told them.

After about 10 minutes of recalling what happened, the girls began handing out presents  to Spike: A blanket, dumbell, a book, some art supplies, a handmade slingshot, a painting of Spike's likeness, and a few other things. But when It came to my present, the only thing on hand I could give him was one of the Affinity stones me and Iron found some time ago. Giving the best warm-felt hug I could, the gem was presented to him.

''Happy birthday Spike!'' We all yelled.

The dragon just seemed to leak out happiness, but later had confusion? Hmm.

''You don't like It? Sorry If Its not what you wanted, but the thought that counts, r-right?''

''Well, no, I love the gifts, It's just whenever my birthday comes around, I get one present. From Twilight. A book.''

''Oh.'' We collectively said.

''But It's okay! With all these gifts, I wish It could last forever.''

At that point, Pinkie hopped out of the torn present boxes and said: ''Of course It can't silly, you still have to go and get your present from the Cakes!''

At the sound of that announcement, the dragon sped out the library quick, leaving us here.

''Didn't mean It had to end right now!'' Pinkie whined.

Spike's Pov:

Oh boy, oh boy! I can't wait to see what I'm gonna get! First the gifts from my friends, and now this little surprise from the Cakes. Can this day get any better? Hopping through the double doors, Mr and Mrs. Cake were going about their business when I made my presence known.

''Hey, there's the birthday dragon!'' Mr. Cake greeted.

''Oh, happy birthday dear! When Pinkie Pie told us about your birthday, we just had to try out a new recipe: Sapphire!'' A blue cupcake with with small pieces of my favorite gem all around. It feels just like that dream I had last night. Taking the pastry In my hands, I thanked them and left, the cupcake just calling my name to devour It. Walking down the cobblestone path, my claws are slightly shaking from the temptation of having this amazing gift! Hmm, I wonder what else somepony can get on their birthday...

Oh, boy: look at all this stuff I got! A ball from Lickety Split, a cool white fedora, and some flowers! I have got to be the luckiest dragon around. Looking at Ponyville, It sure has...a lot of stuff...that I can take... Wait, no.

''Oh, what am I thinking, Ponyville Is my home: I would never dream of being some kind of pillager to It, that would be so...right though.'' A cloud of smoke escaped my nostrils. Shaking my head free of any bad thoughts, I gotta take a walk and clear my head, maybe I'll go and draw In the dirt.

The next day, Jamir's pov:

''Master? Tap master. Tap master. Tap master. Tap master. Taaaap.''  Clearing any sleep from my eye, I woke up to find Xenia on my chest, poking my nose with a cute smile. Moving carefully to avoid waking Twi, I looked up to face my little red panda friend and smirked.

''Yes?'' I asked amusingly. She bounced up and down on my chest before she hopped out of bed and pointed to the door.

''Master, master: there's something you have to see downstair!'' She sounded like a little ray of sunshine. Going over and placing her on my head, I opened the door and went down.

''So what's so Important that I have to-Ohh, my god.'' I stopped In my tracks. In front of me lay a pile of crud: books, flowers, mailboxes, and weirdly enough: a globe. But that Is not the kicker. What Is throwing me off Is that giant green mass up top It. Creeping over, I saw that Spike was the culprit? Laying around the pile In a defensive manner, the drake was sleeping. Not for long. Soundproofing our room and Xenia's ears, I used my magic to enhance my voice and yelled: ''Wakeeee uppppp!''

''Ah! What's going on?'' Spike's voice took on a deep baritone. Getting up, his small stubby body was Instead long and thin, like a slinky. His claws are tad bit sharper, scales a deeper color, and he seemed to exude a higher body temperature because I am slightly sweating from his heat.

''You tell me.'' I folded my arms. ''Why Is all this stuff here, and more to the point: what the hell happened to you?''

''Ugh, I...can't really remember. One minute, there I was at Sugarcube corner getting my treat from the Cakes, and then...nothing. I just woke up.''

''Try and think: what was the last thing you did after you left the Cakes? Focus.'' I told him.

''Let's see: Oh, boy: look at all this stuff I got! A ball from Lickety Split, a cool white fedora, and some flowers! I have got to be the luckiest dragon around. Looking at Ponyville, It sure has...a lot of stuff...that I can take... Wait, no.

''Then after that: ''Oh, what am I thinking, Ponyville Is my home: I would never dream of being some kind of pillager to It, that would be so...right though.''

''Ok, and?''

''I felt all grabby: like everything In my line of sight just had to be mine. What's wrong with me?'' He asked.

At that time, Twi came downstairs and saw Spike.

''What happened to you?'' She gasped.

''I don't really know: how do you think this could have happened?'' He panicked.

''Since he's the only other one around, maybe Kanaranx could provide us with some Insight on what's happening to him.''

''Alright, let's go then!'' Twi trotted out, only for me to hold a foot In her way.

''Wha?'' She asked.

''It's alright hon: Me and the guys can take care of this. You can call over the girls and relax or something.''

''Are you Implying just because I'm pregnant that I will suddenly become a stay at home mare? I do have obligations too.'' She argued.

Bending to her level, I gave her hoof a squeeze and delicately kissed It.

''By no means am I saying that, I just wanted to make sure the baby's alright. But you are right: you do have things you need to do. I'm sorry.'' I whispered. Twilight smiled and whispered back to me: ''I understand, buut you can make It up later. In the bedroom and rut. me. wild''. She gave my ear a nip.

...Damn sex cravings.

''Fine, let's go.'' I summoned some comfortable clothes ( wife beater and black shorts with black and white chuck taylors) and flew us to the mines.

5 minutes later, Diamond Dog Mines:

Dropping Spike from my magic first, I landed and looked around for the older dragon. Walking through some newly renovated tunnels, I come to find him along with Zareran's group with Frank In the mess hall and Zecora! Oh this'll be good, I have to talk to her anyways.

''This should be a piece of-Hey!'' I yelled to the green drake who was trying to sneak away with a few ration crates. Well, more like drag across the floor.

''Uh, Frank did It!'' He scurred away. That got him to spill his deck of playing cards and have left right eye start twitching.

''I'm gonna kill that two timing-'' I win!'' The Griffon announced showing his hand of three 8's and two 4's.

''What!?'' He yelled.

Going over, It looked to be a game of poker. Huh, I never learned how to play. Anyway, not here for that, here to find out just what the hell Is wrong with Spike. Calling both the dragon and Zebra shaman over, they both looked pleased to see us, kinda of Interested at Spike, however.

''Do you know what's going on with Spike: Xenia found him this morning with a pile of stuff and Smack! for some reason Smack! he keeps trying Smack! to take things that aren't Smack! his AND WILL YOU STOP THAT?!'' Spike kept trying to snatch that same crate. Zecora came over and performed some basic checkups.

''Ooh, he is starting to mature. Of this fact I am quite sure.''

''Really? But then why the stealing?'' I asked.

''A dragon's heart Is prone to greed, a steady diet to make growth speed. Then, the resulting bigger size only makes their hunger rise. If this trait should go unchecked, If Spike continues to collect, more growth will certainly occur – he Is going to turn into a monster!''

''Kid's just going through his cycle, all dragons do It: and trust me when I say this Is not the worst thing to happen yet.'' Kanaranx groaned.'

''So how do we stop him from becoming a monster?'' Twi asked.

Zecora provided a lifeless answer: '' You must Impede Spike from practicing greed.''

''Did you hear that Spike, you just have to-Uh, where did he go?''

Blam! ''Watch out!'' We moved out of the way of falling debris.

Looking where he stood, not a moment ago: A giant hole was above the spot where he stood, claws marks along the wall leading up to the hole. Great, this has got to just as worst, If not more than the drugging. Gathering all of my magic In my hands, I shot one hand down,  creating a massive crater that lifted us up, and one to the air that created a barrier to protect us. Coming out to the top, a massive dragon grew to tremendous heights, leaving colossal footprints In Its wake.

''We gotta do something: at this rate he'll destroy Ponyville!'' Frank panicked.

''I-I know. But how?'' I struggled with my magic. My grip was starting to go slack, my thoughts are slipping, and the stress Is all getting dealt to my body. Tapping Into a portion of the magic of my Element, everything began to feel lighter and easier to grasp. Focusing my eyes, Spike looked be growing by the minute as he began to pick up random objects and roar to the sky. Channeling even more of my element's magic, I moved us forward and chased after him.

''Slow him down!'' I yelled, Twi, Valiant, and Flashing using their magic, which only managed to annoy him as he swatted his tail at us. Avoiding that, I sped ahead and hopped off the flying landmass. Using my hand, I brought some support to hold It In place.

''Stay here!'' I set Xenia down and told everyone else as I walked over to the dragon.

whilst  I confronted Spike. Seeing him charge at me with clouded rage, a huge barrier trapped him a feet few away from me. Thrashing all about In a attempt to break It, this looked to be a good opportunity to crack at least one joke.

''Spike, Spike the dragon...you're a mess. Have you been on hoarders yet?'' I fooled around. He looked be about the size of a house.

''Let me go!'' He bellowed, the force giving my ears a slight ringing.

''Can't do that.'' I leaned against the bubble. ''You're just going through a process and I'm gonna need you to just stay there until we can figure out what to-OOF!

Crack!

Falling down to the ground, he actually managed to crack my shield. Being slightly dizzy, I came face to face with his snout that expelled hot smoke right In my face to which I coughed.

''Don't ever do that. Again.'' He growled and left. With him going on a rampage, I gotta think of something, otherwise-''Ahh!, Jamir!'' I heard Twilight yell. Spike had everyone In his claws and proceeded to Ponyville, a rainbow streak coming from that general direction. Bringing my wings back up, Rainbow came over to me In the sky and observed the dragon laying waste to the ground below.

''What In Celestia's mane Is that?'' She asked, baffled.

''That Is Spike.''

''Come on, you mean to tell me that behemoth Is little Spike?'' She nudged my shoulder.

''Rainbow.'' She looked at me. ''That Is Spike and he has our friends.''

''What? Why didn't you say before hand? Let's teach that over lizard a thing or two!'' She was pumped up.

''No, we can't hurt him: Spike's our friend, but I don't know what to do.'' I sighed.

''Think of something because at the rate he's going to flatten Ponyville In a few minutes.''

Wait...I may have something here.

''Hold on.'' I said. ''There may be a way, It's risky but just might work.''

''All ears.'' She said.

''Well, thanks to a quick lesson on dragon psychology by Kanaranx: dragon ears are sensitive and susceptible to sound waves. They have excellent hearing, but It comes at the price of being so exposed to the right sound that can Irritate or even In some cases Incapacitate them but a good portion relies on amplification, duration, and type. So what Is the loudest sound that we know of?...''The double rainboom!'' She realized.

''Correct, but we have to get pretty close for the best results: you up for this?''

She responded by giving me a kiss on the cheek and saying: ''Let's do this.''

Flying up to the highest point possible, I made a cloud appear underneath us we gave each other a nod and jumped. Soaring through the sky like lead weights, Spike was closing In on Ponyville. We had to make this right, no room for error. Pushing against the sound barrier, my entire body felt like the weight of a semi truck was pushing down on me, forcing my eyes to squint, blood vessels to constrict, and forced spit out of my mouth. Barely making out the ground, I had only one chance to do this. A massive burst of energy burst from behind, blurs of light flickered In and out of my eyes as I suddenly brought myself up and pulled up, a massive roar of discomfort adding to the list of painful things. Coming towards me, Rainbow asked: ''What's the plan now?''

''Get everypony clear and tell them to close their eyes! This'll be bright!'' I flew ahead. With Rainbow turning back and rescuing everypony I stopped and faced the dragon, holding his ears In pain. Swiftly, I put up another barrier around us, encasing us to the outside world.

''Last chance, or do you want It the hard way?'' I mocked.

Youtube Video

''Or we could do that. Either way's fine with me.''

Drawing In power from my element, my normal white-green magical aura shifted to a light red and golden one as I felt the power of 10 alicorns surge through me, enhancing my every body part. My wings became bigger and also shifted color, my body became more toned and muscular, and my hair grew longer and reached to the back of my knees, a red base with a golden undertone running through my course locks, and top It off,my element revealed Itself In the form of twin bracelets on my hands. Clapping them together, I Instantly remembered a certain Image of a weapon and brought It forward. A long, dark metallic lance with my apparently signature colors pulsated In my hands, seemingly of light.

''This feeling...It's amazing.'' I smiled.

''Prepare to meet your retribution!'' The lance emitted a light that blinded me, felt hot almost as the center of Spike's chest was struck. The light engulfed everything In my field of vision, appearing everlasting until It died down completely and revealed two huge footprints, a small green mass laid down In one of them. Gliding down, everypony rushed to Spike's side to see If...It happened. Holding a claw to his throat, Kanaranx assured us Spike's fine, he just lost consciousness. Thank goodness he's not hurt, just a little scuffed up, but that's why-''Hey!'' I was tackled down by Rainbow and Twi.

''Sorry, It's just that...you looked so sexy when you transformed like that. It kinda made me hot and bothered.'' The unicorn chuckled.

''S-Same here.'' Rainbow blushed.

''That's okay, but now we need to-''Oof!'' I was pushed back down. Really? Here of all places?

Fortunately enough, Kanaranx saved me from a night of somewhat painful, but kinky sex...even though that would be the shit.

''Well, thanks to whatever you did, Ponyville was saved, but now comes a even harder task. Spike's gonna need someone to fulfill his desires or you could see a better chance of this happening again.''

Huh?

The Quest For...A Sex Partner?

Jamir's Pov Two Days Later, Canterlot Throne Room:

''Well, thanks to whatever you did, Ponyville was saved, but now comes a even harder task. Spike's gonna need someone to fulfill his desires or you could see a better chance of this happening again.'' That same thought  Is running through my head even now. If what Kanaranx said Is truth, then like It or not: Spike needs get laid...and that sounds a lot weirder In my head. With Spike's troubles, Twilight and I having slight complications regarding health Issues, and the backstabbing **** Azure possibly being there, I have no room for error, no room to sugarcoat, and no time to waste. Which Is exactly why I am ordering for a small squad of Royal Guards to patrol and keep Ponyville locked down tight. But a quick footnote: the girls's reactions to my transformation: tried everything I could, nothing happened so I'm stuck with these features that somehow has made me even more of eye candy to the girls, Luna almost dry humping me as we sat and chatted about what occurred.

''So are they ready?'' I asked Tia and Lulu.

''Yes, they are being deployed as we speak, but...love: are you certain you want to do this?'' Celestia asked.

No, and yet am I certain when It comes to matters such as these? However things are different this time. New rules, just a simple In and out.

The girls Initially rejected the Idea, pretty much barricaded me from the door. But nobody'll get the wiser of me: It just won't happen.

''No.'' I sighed and ran a hand through my newly acquired hair. ''But there Is a lot riding on this Information. You were there when Sergo spilled the beans about where Azure Is and even more so, she'll only be In the Outlands for a few days, so we can't miss our chance to do this.''

''Even so, you have barely returned to us and now are embarking on another journey? What If you fail? What If you-''Shh.'' I put a finger over Luna's lip.

''That won't happen: I promise you. Besides, It'll take something grade a to take me down, even more so prevent me from returning to you guys. But with Azure going there, Spike's hormonal Issues, and the well-being of your niece or nephew at stake, I am seeing no reason to not go, and It would provide an chance to peace talks when I secure the victory In the Descent Of Cold Blood, right?''

Tia and Lulu were silent at the news, but nonetheless agreed. Getting up and coming Into a group hug, I each gave them a 5 minute kiss that both were subject to tears and slight shaking

''Give me a week's time: no more, no less and I will be back with peace treaty and Traitor In store. I Pinkie Promise.'' I performed the motions.

''I love you...'' They both whispered.

''And I love you girls too.'' One last kiss was exchanged between both of them.

Breaking away from the embrace quicker than I had liked, I got up and walked out the throne room, not before I turned around and said with complete confidence: ''I'll be back, make sure to take care of each other.'' Turning away, I walked down the hall, the clapping of my shoes against the glass-like floor gave an air of seriousness. Pausing for a moment, I looked at my reflection In a nearby mirror: My brown eyes usually portrayed tiredness, but alertness was present. My facial hair Is starting to get a little unseemly. My beard Is beginning to get bushier, my mustache Is coming back and cigar mark from Sergo has vanished. The only permanent thing Is this scar above my right eye that resembles a scuffle between the ground and my face. My once short black hair has turned Into knee long red base hair with golden streaks on the Inside, a two tone hair color. My body looked to be In perfect condition: a fully developed six pack, slim chest and well toned arms. Clutching my hand Into a fist, my anger for that bitch for putting me through all this heartache has reached unimaginable levels.

Resigning, the window behind me was open as I hopped through and took flight back to Ponyville, a million thoughts on my mind.

Touching back down, the town looked to be In better conditions with the arrival of the small squad of Royal Guards here, but to make extra sure, I've also sent In a few of my best troops to patrol as well. Since I only have a week to do this and get back, only a few are going with me, excluding the 2 dragons and by discussion (during sex) Twilight as well. Now three more, but who would be best? I would consider Frank, but I need him to stay here In case something happens which It won't be If It does...he can defend the town with everypony else. Valiant and Iron would be good choices, but they are also better off here with their expertise. And believe me  when they fought to come with me, but I Informed them of the situation at hand plus with my authority over Iron and Valiant along with a stern talking to Frank, they agreed to hold down the fort. I guess another unicorn would help, so Flashing Is a good pick for a sticky situation and preferably an Earth pony for the force but between Aj and Battering: I couldn't decide so we had a mini test of strength to see the better victor and sure enough AJ won. And lastly: another flyer would do wonders for recon/and providing air support. So Rainbow comes too.

Going through checking and reloading my weapons, I changed my clothes Into a long gray sleeved zip up shirt, some loose fitting jeans, and I got a few scrunchies from Rarity to tie my hair up so It wouldn't fly all over the place. Aj, Rainbow, Spike and Kanaranx were all ready to go, now we just have to wait for Twilight.

''So what do you think'll happen when we get there?'' Spike fidgeted.

Looking through my scope, I set my weapon down and guessed: ''Hostile Individuals, treacherous path, possible carnivores, and that's pretty much It.'' I hoisted my bag.

''He's right you know: that's we do It In the Outlands, or least how I used to.'' The dragon chuckled.

''Is everypony ready?''I hear Twi ask. Looking at her, signs of her pregnancy are starting to be visible. The slightly bigger belly brought a smile to my face. She looks so happy, I'm proud of what I've done so far and would never change It for the world.

''Yea, but are you sure about this?'' I asked.

''Yes, whatever Spike's going through, I want to help be there for him.'' She said.

''So where are we going?''

The dragon In front us pondered that particular question for about a minute before he looked to have a epiphany. Conjuring up a small flame, he divided the fire Into 1/5ths and remained stationary over our heads, but mine was a different color: black.

''This fire will show that you are accompanying a fellow dragon In the outlands. Even the proclamation gives all species the right to enter, It has been quite some time  since I have been back, so this will just further secure your rights while being there: yours Is different Jamir because for any foreigners to enter: that black flame shows your automatic admittance Into the Descent. Now come on, we're burning daylight: let's hustle!'' The dragon took flight.

''Hey, wait up for me!'' Rainbow sped after him, her signature trail following.

''How In the hay are we gonna catch up to them?'' Aj groaned.

''Like this.'' I brought forth my magic and lifted a sizeable chunk of ground around us, the ground separating and rising up. Concentrating, I willed the structure to move and move It did. Moving at a moderate pace, Ponyville slowly began to fade and disappear as we soared on top of the clouds and observed the what little Intact part of the Everfree fill our eyes looking down.  Catching up to the speedster pegasus and dragon, they both noticed my face that said: ''Really?' Landing down as they closed their wings, I began to think about what to expect this time. With this going on, there Is no room for screw ups. There Is a lot riding on the outcome of this, but even bigger If we fail.

''So where are we headed?'' I called over my shoulder.

''Keep heading North for about 3 miles and then you should see a group of Sentinels patrolling: follow them to the city limits and we'll take It from there.'' He sat down. Maintaining my current speed, everypony else was pretty much lax: Rainbow and Aj were playing cards with Twilight who was slaughtering them In a game of go fish and Kanaranx was lazing around, obviously bored.  I called over to Spike to better assess how he's doing. After the whole rampage, If I can even call It that, Spike has been awfully quiet, doesn't really have a appetite, and even has been slacking on his training. He must be feeling horrible for what he did.

''Hey Spike, you good?'' I shouted loud enough.

Being silent for a moment, he picked with his claws before responding: ''Y-Yea, besides this raging headache and these weird feelings, I should be alright.''

Taking his answer as Is, I focused back on navigating through the sky seeing as I have nothing else better to do.

Azure's Pov, En Route To The Outlands:

''So what we need Is there?'' My subordinate, Wind Breaker pointed to a visible structure In the distance, winged figures soaring around the sky. The once crisp, cool air was now hot and acrid. The ground was usually so vibrant and full of life, Instead dried up and flaky. The only thing that appeared full of life would be the trees though they too seemed to be slowly withering away.

''Yes.'' I confirmed. ''What we seek Is certain to be there: I even checked In advance so we should have delays or Issues this time.'' My patience began to wear thin. Following the major setback In the Griffon Kingdom and the so called threat on my life has severely dampened my plans, but no matter: this time, not only has location set up with goal: the human can not possibly hope to survive The Descent Of Cold Blood. Checkmate, plain and simple. Relaxing In the seat of this carriage, the entire fate of Equestria rests on my hoof, can be easily cast aside If I see fit.

Jamir's Pov, Approaching The Outer Limits:

''So...let me get this straight: I'm gonna have to fight a dragon pretty much the same size as Spike was...just to get access to Inner ring?'' I'm making Kanaranx's words perfectly clear.

''Well, maybe a tad bulkier, but yea.'' He simply said.

''Oh great, now they can write: crushed by a giant dragon to my tombstone.'' I thought.

''You can't be serious: that's crazy!'' Rainbow argued.

''Hey, I didn't make the rules: the scholars did. In the case of any foreigners, they must figured them to unworthy or dangerous so they appointed one of the higher tier dragons to be the opposer. There have been no challengers, so all The Opposer does Is just sit around and occasionally pull pranks on the newbies.''

''But that Is still not right!'' Twi Intervened.

Closing my eyes for a brief moment, this news felt troubling, to say the least. Hearing hoofsteps over Twi and Dash's argument with Kanaranx, Aj came over and laid a comforting hoof on my shoulder.

''Ya alright sugarcube?''

''...I'm fine Applejack. It's just...a small part of me hoped that this would be simple...not bloodlust or combat. But I know the real world Is just that harsh of a game to play, but I Intend to win, even If some rules have to be broken.'' I sighed. Bringing us slightly down, a group of 5 dragons with Armour and spears flew In a v shape, a large cylindrical architecture In the distance. The air began to get hot and tasted of ash, the ground below looked to have the signs of a recent fire as It was chipping and drying away.

''Follow us!'' A gruff voice called from below.

Hefting us down, we hopped down and walked over to the squad of dragons who stood at the position of attention.

''State your business!'' One groughly said.

''We have urgent business: this poor baby here Is going through his cycle and It's that time of the year.'' Kanaranx cracked a smile to the one In middle. Taking off his helmet, It revealed to be a dragon with prominent features: a white scaled body, light rapier sword bound to his sheath on the right side of his body, green eyes, blue spines, and a kind of pelt-like coat tied down to the bottom of his midsection, resembling a half open kilt.

''You sly dog.'' He chuckled In a deep voice. ''What are you doing here?'' He gave a warm felt hug. Holding the embrace for a minute, he broke away and explained.

''Oh, so that's why you're here...sorry to say this but It doesn't look like your friend there will be able to last a minute with The Opposer.'' Radiance was skeptical, hey I couldn't really blame him. The size of The Opposer Is more or less the same as Spike, If not slightly bigger. In a short summary: this guy has a glossy red set of scales, grey spines, obvious signs of aging from the worn out condition of his wings and the apparent look of boredom on his face.

''So...this Is the one who wishes to challenge me In the past 500 years? How amusing?'' He breathed out a small fire ball at me which I fended off with my Armour. The Intensity of the heat was no joke, feeling It dissipate, I swiftly exhaled and walked forward.

''So this Is my opponent: a old cranky dragon with no playmates, but I assure you: you will not be bored playing with me.'' I cracked my knuckles. Walking up to us, Radiance recited the rules.

''This Is the Descent Of Cold Blood: by blocking his attack, you automatically agree to the match. There Is no time limit, no medical aid, and no rules. Besides this one: The winner will be declared when one has either killed the other or be deemed to not fight any longer. Ready?''

This Is It...

''Set?''

No time to back out now...

''Begin!"' He flew backwards. Locking eyes with the dragon, I summoned a barrier around us and brought forth my bow, firing off several sticky arrows, to which he breathed fire on, but these are special arrows.

Splat!

''Augh, what Is this?!'' He tried to get the gunk off, only for his claw to get glued to his chest. Trying desperately to remove It, I saw my chance as I hefted up two huge boulders and and hurled them at his face, moving him back a bit. Looking to gain some distance with me and him, I fired off some more arrows as cover fire. Taking a swipe with his massive claw, I jumped and dodged out of the way, landing back on my feet. Opening his maw and delivering a long burst of fire at me, I brought up a rock wall and protected myself from the brunt of the attack. Hopping over the charred rock, I slammed my fists down to the ground, causing It to  split and quake, trapping his head In a x pattern of pillars.

''You sow!'' He growled.

''Aww yeah, show 'em who's boss!" I heard Rainbow cheer.

Getting In a loose stance, I backflipped In the air, putting a percent of my magic Into my foot as a massive chink of ground uppercutted his jaw and disoriented him. Charging my magic Into a ball the size of a tank Into my hands, the power was absorbed as my arms glowed red and gold. Bringing a platform from behind me, I hopped up and launched myself forward.

''Ahh!'' I yelled, sending my left hand Into his jaw, cracking/and or knocking out his teeth while the other aimed for his forehead that formed a major dent and forcing his brain to bounce around In his skull. The force of the Impact was so great, It pushed me back some distance while The Opposer was forced to the edge of the barrier, slamming against It with Immense force. Wiping what blood he could from his slack jaw, he laughed.

''You have certainly shown me a good time: those attacks actually hurt. But now the time has come to die!'' He let a sea of fire loose from his mouth, clearing out the dust cloud and aiming a condensed line at me. Standing my ground, I brought up another rock wall that Instantly shattered and forced me off my feet. My back met the barrier's wall In no time flat, my breathing going short, sight blurring, blood coming out my mouth and whole body shutting down as I hit the ground.

''Ha! After endless years of no competitors, one strong enough poses a actual threat and falls!" He bellowed.

''Jamir!'' I barely heard everyone yell out.

''So Is this how It ends? After all that big talk...this Is how my light goes out? I tried my best, but even that wasn't enough. Man, I'm such a jackass.'' I sounded fed up.

''Get up!'' I heard a voice call In my head.

''Twilight?'' I asked.

''Yes, It's me but that's not Important right now: you have to get up!'' She yelled.

''I don't If I COUGH! can. That last attack kinda winded me...'' I groaned.

''Please, get up: I lost you once already: I-we, don't want to lose you again.''

''Yea, sugarcube: buck up. Ya can't let this here varmit get the better of ya...''

''Come on, get up: after all you've done: now you decide to kick the bucket? Are you wuss or a winner?!''

''...I'm a winner.''

''I'm a winner!'' I shouted, fighting back the grueling pain In my chest.

''Mmm? Did you say something: I couldn't hear you over the sound of me slashing your guts open.'' He skulked over. Not for long. Bringing his large claw down on me, I met him In the middle as we fought a bout of strength. Gaining the upper hand, I flung him to the top of the barrier. Crisscrossing my magic, I brought up the largest solid slabs of stone I could hold In my magic and slam them together to create a huge dust cloud.

''I need more, more!'' I shouted.

Tapping Into more of my Element's power, It showed Its second form as a winged choker with a knife cross. Touching the wings In the center, a brand new feeling spread throughout my body: almost similar to what happened with Spike. My whole body felt Invigorated, the fatigue and hurt vanishing. My red-gold hair changed again white with purple highlights, my magic aura took on the same color, my wings sprouted out and transformed to bone wings with the magical color acting as a type of skin, and my eyes shifted two different colors: one purple and the other green. And to top It off, another thought crept Into my mind as a pair of massive chains wormed around my wrists and legs.

''This ought to be fun.'' I broke Into mad laughter. Holding my arms out, the chains found and pinned their way to his legs and arm. Seeing him struggle could not have made me smile anymore or I might need surgery. Hopping on his stomach(avoiding the sticky goop), I bent down and looked In the eyes. He made no attempt to shy away.

''Hmph, go ahead and do your worst.'' He mumbled.

''With pleasure.'' I charged a magic spell for point blank range and let It grow before It was the good length of his body. I was preparing to do him In when I heard  that mysterious voice again.

''Yes, let It consume you...be one with It...'' It hissed to me.

Holding back on my attack, I powered down my spell and calmed down. Hopping down, I distilled the barrier and joined back with everypony else. Looking over my body, It reverted back to the pre-transformation state: red hair and everything.

''That...was...amazing!'' Radiance slapped me on the shoulder.

It wasn't so much as that: more so seeing as Its me or him and naturally I chose-''...Why?'' I heard a hoarse voice say. ''Why didn't you end me?...''

I waited a moment before giving him a answer.

''Because I'm on a tight schedule: even If I had the time to do so, I wouldn't. I don't kill all willy nilly.'' I responded.

''In any case: The Opposer has been bested and Is unable to fight, therefore the...''Human.'' Human wins! In the first time In 500 years, we have a victor of The Descent Of Cold Blood: per the ancient tradition, any foreigner Is granted access to the Inner ring should they complete the trial and you have proven your worth. You may pass through the gates.'' Radiance announced.

''Well, that was the easy part, right?'' I asked.

''Not by a long shot, but don't worry: this part of the trek probably won't almost get you killed.'' Kanaranx joked.

Comforting.

Finding Common Ground

Findings

Twilight's Pov, Canterlot:

Me and the girls were on our way to see the princesses after receiving a telepathic message that seemed to be urgent by the tone of It.  The guards let us pass easy, probably being told ahead of time. Going down the large corridor leading to the throne room, Rainbow Dash voiced everypony's  thought at the sudden request to come here.

''So why do you think Celestia wants to see us? Some kind of threat?'' She asked.

''I don't know, but based on how she sounded, this won't be something that'll be as simple as just talking It out.'' I sighed.

Approaching the large ornate doors that lay In front, two guards opened the door with their magic and proceeding Inside, Princess Celestia and Luna sat looking rather glum and confused. Going up to them, I saw that their  eyes were somewhat bloodshot, a symptom of crying.

''Princesses, are ya okay?'' Applejack asked.

''...Hah...I am sorry to say that: no we are not okay, fair Applejack: far from It.''Luna's voice was shaking.

''What ever happened?'' Rarity asked.

Celestia sighed as she got up and looked at the window. For a minute, all was quiet until she spoke: ''There Is some disturbing news that has been brought to our attention.'' She  spoke softly.

''It would seem that our efforts to strengthen our alliances with the Griffon kingdom has hit a minor snag as the representative to deliver the peace treaty has been kidnapped.'' Luna said.

''That's horrible!'' I said.

''Yes, but the truly horrible and cowardly thing Is how we found out that enlisting In his aid along with Valiant Barrier, Iron Hammer, young Spike, and Frank: they were tasked with attempting to retrieve the representative, but sometime ago we received word that their carriage has been ambushed as well.'' Celestia sighed.

''Wait, how?'' Pinkie wondered.

''While still not completely known: we believe the use of guerrilla tactics to catch them off guard.'' Luna said.

''I don't mean to be rude your highness, but are you sure?'' Lavender asked.

The princess nodded as she levitated a cloth behind her to the floor and opened It, showing us something that made us gasp. One of Spike's scale, a part of Frank's shirt, and Is that Jamir's weapon?

''At first, we did not believe this to be true, but It has been quite some time and his amulet has not been responding.'' She said.

''This can't be happening!'' Fluttershy panicked.

''Easy there, darling: I am more than sure than our friends are alright, perhaps these Items were just lost.'' Rarity reasoned.

''Yea, I'm sure that wherever the guys are It's nothing they can't handle: besides, where could the be the worst place they could end up?'' Rainbow joked.

''This Is no laughing matter girls: The route they took was along one of the Griffon's main roads for Importing and Exporting goods, and as much as going to get them would be In my better Interest, we cannot as for the Issues with jurisdiction.'' Luna explained.

''Well, Is there anything that we can do princess?'' I asked.

''I...am afraid not. It Is up to Jamir to get him and the others out this mess and come home safely, oh how It Infuriates me to be just standing here and doing nothing.'' Celestia stomped her hoof on the floor.

I stood there, thinking about what the princess had told us when I felt my stomach cramp and a sudden wave of nausea come over me as I fell to the floor.

''Twilight, are you okay?'' Fluttershy asked.

''Ugh...no...everything...hurts...make It stop!..'' I yelled and grunted.

Jamir's Pov, Griffon Kingdom Prison,  Approaching the loading area:

If this has never been said, then l'm the first to: prison Is not all that bad as It seems. And hopefully I haven't gone crazy from the lack of pure sunlight on my face, but If you really think for a minute: so far all we've done Is just wake up and be escorted to lunch. But that will not be a regular thing as one way or the other: we are getting the hell our of here first shot and I think that I just found out how. Might be a close call, but It may be our only chance and I'm not going to waste It. So here's the rundown: once a week, the prison gets a fresh supply of supplies: Toilet paper, soap, bed sheets, etc, and every Wednesday around the evening, a carriage comes to deliver It with a few prisoners go and bring the dirty ones and trade. The whole process takes a few minutes, and there being no willing volunteers, me and the guys signed up with that unicorn we met: Flashing Deck.

Walking down a long service hallway, which mostly had nothing but a bunch of storage rooms and a few stains of something dried out and red on the wall, our pace picked up slightly. ''Ugh, guys, I think this Is blood.'' Spike held his nose In disgust.'' ''Eh, you get used the smell, at least I did.'' Valiant had a face of remembrance. Seeing a pair of double doors, I opened them and got a decent look outside.

A decent sized fence adorned with thin coiled wires went around the entire area, a slim shadow was cast over us due to the height of the columned building behind us and the ground was littered a few claw and scorch marks along with a few patches of blood, feathers, and some teeth.

''This really Is where the worst get sent, eh?'' Frank picked up a tooth.

''Yea, It's not all that bad If you don't get the warden's attention.'' Flashing chuckled.

''Why, you make sound like you've met the warden.'' Iron looked around.

''...I have and trust me when I say you don't want to make him mad: he did things to me...things that would make you think twice about doing wrong.'' She had a fit of shudders.

''Oh really? that's how Jamir Is should you piss him off: he even threatened to shit on the graves of those jackasses that got us In the forest by surprise.'' Frank laughed.

Our conversation was cut short by the sounds of wheels against the concrete path and a voice  In the distance saying: ''Go and get that delivery!''

Walking over and dragging the cart with me, I began to formulate my plot to get out of here, and while not pretty, there was a chance that It might work.

Unloading the fresh cargo and passing It to Flashing and somehow without her seeing: I did hand gestures to the guys one by one to get them to quietly get In, all the more while the unicorn not seeing this by going back and forth putting the stuff In a storage room.

For a few minutes, the goods were exchanged and everything seemed to go ok. Smiling, I looked around for something to help make this a little more easy. Bingo.

Picking up a small rock, my sights were set a random part of the wall as I chucked the rock.

''Huh?'' Flashing turned her head towards the sound.

Hopping Inside, I tapped the side of the carriage to which It began to move.

''We did It: huh, guess this wasn't so stupid.'' I thought.

But then came the part of enduring this smell. Oh god, I think I'm gonna puke, just what the hell passes for sanitation here?

Judging the distance beforehand, I assumed that It might take about a minute to get past the gate, so as long nothing happens-''Some prisoners are escaping!'' I heard Flashing yell.

Or that could happen.

The carriage stopped and the hoofsteps and flapping of wings had me scrambling to get up but I suddenly was grabbed by the collar and slammed down on the hard ground.

''Hold It right there!'' A guard held me down.

''Hey, let me go!'' Spike yelled.

''Just hold on, I'll get us out of here: You might not believe me, but we're Innocent.'' I kept my composure.

''They all say that.'' The guard scoffed.

''Then take us to the warden: since you won't believe us, maybe whoever's In charge will.'' Valiant snorted.

''He'll just tell you the same thing we did.'' We were hoisted up and pushed back Inside.

In hindsight, this was not that well thought out, but being In my shoes might make you think a little sluggish.

Finding my 1st attempt to be a setback, nothing I can't bounce back from, I allowed myself some time to think about a few things: most of all, how the girls must be, but considering It's only been a day, so they wouldn't be worrying their heads off. Regardless, we are accused of something that I know that Is not true. Huffing, the guards led us to a office door that overlooked the prison from a tower. The door opened to reveal a room decorated with different forms of furniture: some being made of wood, some made of glass, and a few with bones for the legs, handles, or trim. Seeing lush velvet curtains and smelling perfume, a groan and the faint sound of sucking, this left me speechless. Looking towards the source of moaning and groaning, In a chair sat a very disheveled Griffon with a dark blue and white feathered coat with a small vest on and wearing a beret.

He seemed to be oblivious until I cleared my throat and he looked at us. ''And just what Is this?'' He spoke In a deep voice.

''The prisoners that tried to escape: they wanted to meet with you.'' The guard pushed us down.

Grunting as he readjusted himself and lit a cigar, he took a long drag before blowing out a cloud of dark smoke that reached my nostrils and I began to cough.

Gesturing to bring me closer, the guard slammed my head on the table, the sudden movement giving a light headed feeling.

''So you must be my new specimen to play with.'' He gave a dark, low laugh.

''What do you mean, specimen?'' I had to crane my eyes upward to see him.

He looked under his desk and told the mare sucking him off to go a little slower as he rested a paw on his face In a laid back manner.

''You see, my two legged friend: my profession, no I dare say my purpose In life comes from acquiring rare and exotic species all overthe world. To me, this gives me great pleasure In deciding the faith of another living being and making It end: 'Snap!'...that easy. You are here because of a favor that I cashed In from a long-time partner of mine: Ms.Azure Light, I presume you know?'' He stared me In the eyes the entire time.

This guy was seriously getting underneath my skin: almost If he's radiating an aura that just says bad trouble, but he continued with his little speech.

''You may be wondering why you all are here: and here Is your answer: You have been charged with: the kidnapping of a Equestrian representative and declaring an act of war via a threatening letter from the princesses to have you released with the price being war should the Griffon Kingdom not agree to the set terms.'' He smiled.

''You can't do that: It'll destroy and slander the princesses's good names and bring about more bloodshed than we could ever Imagine!'' Valiant yelled.

''Precisely, yet It matters not since you will be 'Broken In.' So this conversation, while way off topic Is still amusing.''

''Fucking bastard, I'm going to-'' A claw was wrapped around Frank's throat.

''I would like to have that attitude removed from now on.'' He put out his smoke right on my face.

''Ahh!'' I thrashed around, the hand on my head keeping me In place.

''There we are, consider that a warning of sorts: and while we are talking about that topic, you should know this: every Inmate who comes In, stays In, lest they risk coming out In a body bag...or without all of their body parts.'' He snickered which broke Into a laugh.

''So what's gonna happen to us?'' Spike was shaking.

''Since you attempted to break out, you get the usual punishment for those who dare defy my rule: confinement for a month.''

...

...

...

...

''What?!'' We yelled. ''You can't do this you asswipe!'' Frank broke away and charged for the warden, only to have a 19th century flintlock pistol pointed at him.

''Always come prepared, dear boy: get them out of here.'' He waved his hand.

Pulling us back up and taking us out the room, I had one thing to say before they hauled us off.

''WAIT, wait: tell me one thing.'' I demanded.

''And what Is that?''

''Your name.'' I stated.

''You may call me warden Sergo.''

''Great, what the fuck are we gonna do now man: we're going to fucking solitary!'' Frank panicked.

At this point, I kinda ran out of options but someone had to stay strong and I guess that fell to me. But If we're gonna get the hell out of here, we can't do It alone, we'll need some allies.

''Don't sweat It guys, yes this Is fucked up, but this time I'll think of something.'' I thought.

I merely gave Frank the best shrug I could manage as we were dragged away to be stripped of the daylight for a month...damn It.

Of Sound Judgement, Or Not

Azure's Pov, Unknown Location:

Heading towards the approaching library, I was hoping for this to be over. While I could be preoccupied with more Immediate Issues, this small task merits my attention. After what the human did to my followers some time ago, It would be In my best Interest to handle my business myself. Looking over the letter I received was not providing me with much along the lines of leverage. Tapping my chin In thought, Nothing came up for a few moments until I received a telepathic message. Letting the connection go through, my horn glowed with a faint and steady pulse.

''Speak.'' I responded.

...

''Hey Azure.'' Flashing Deck spoke.

''What Is It? Unlike you, I am busy so this has better be of grave Importan-''Hello? hello, hello? can you hear me?'' A voice Interrupted.

No, that can't be: I made sure to take care of him! This has to be a joke!

''I don't think so Azure, It's exactly who you think: and you know something else? He's not the only one who's...huh? oh, okay. Pissed at what you did, and now you're going to pay.'' She said.

''You dare to defy and abandon me? Why I should-''Should what, bitch? Keep running your mouth because that won't help you, only make our revenge all the more sweeter.'' The Human threatened me, me of all ponies! Before I could continue, he kept speaking.

''Let me tell you something: you can run, you can hide, you can even pull  more dirty tricks, but no matter how long It takes, I will find you...and kill you myself, so you'd better watch your back...because I'm coming for you.'' The connection cut after that.

This cannot be good. If he finds me, he'll-wait! I am but a fool. If he wants to wage a personal vendetta on me?...than he better be prepared to pay the ultimate price, they all better.