Rising Hope 2: The Harmony Of Equestria.

Chapters

Scary Times
Another Place
Let's Hatch A Plan!
Reflections
Crunch Time
Something New
A Lot To Put Up With
A Loving And Painful Reunion
If This Is Wrong, Then Screw Being Right!
Health Lessons
Time To Go...Somewhere
Really? This, Really?
Hoarders Never Prosper.
Looking For A Sex Partner...Yes, That
Inside The City
Unexpected Surprise
Let's Haggle
Let's Do This!
Here We Go
Just Another Day
What?!
The Ritual
Canterlot Wedding Part 1
Canterlot Wedding Part 2
The Start Of The End
Epilogue
Growing
Going In
Stress, Friends, And Facts
Watch Out...You're It

Scary Times

Fear

A calm breeze swept through the lowly lit town of Ponyville, the small chirps of grasshoppers and occasional barking of a dog bringing peace to the human's mind as he stared out his bedroom window. Looking to the mirror, he check over his appearance and did a quick twirl. His midnight black collared dress shirt, custom fitting dress pants, strapped biker boots and black and gold feathered fedora receiving a nod of approval from Frank. The latter chose to dress up for the festivities as the king of Vampires. Down to the long, black cloak, pointed shoes, suit vest underneath a white dress shirt, fangs, and done up hair making him seem If not just as, then somewhat to close the real deal with a slight alteration spell done by Twilight and Jamir. For the time being, his body changed In every way, giving him a more subtle, but convincing feel.

''Alright remember: this only last for a few hours so don't waste it.'' The human warned his friend as they proceeded outside, a slight drizzle falling upon them.

''Yes, I understand.'' Frank smirked, a bit of rain falling to his face.

Walking through the town: Twilight, Spike, Jamir, Xenia(his red panda companion), and Frank walked down the cobblestone path, discussing the activities that would befall them.

''So it's basically our version of Halloween? Meh, seems a little...hell if I know.'' Frank scratched his chin. Thinking to himself, Jamir figured that Nightmare Night seems like one of those unnecessary holidays, like Easter or Mardi Gras. Still, the chance for free candy and a spook or two did not stop him from saying yes. Listening on what Twilight was discussing, his little friend was currently resting in a pouch that Rarity constructed for Xenia should she grow tired of always resting on the human's shoulder or head. At least this way, both got what they desired: Xenia wanted to be more comfortable and Jamir looks like a mother Kangaroo with her joey.

''So you mean to tell me after all those history lessons I gave you plus a bit of what Discord said, you still don't know who Starswirl The Bearded is?'' The unicorn asked, her fake beard swaying back and forth with her every movement. Choosing for more of a knowledgeable theme, she chose to go as just the pony she mentioned. Sporting the beard, bells, and hoove stitched robe and hat, she appeared slightly better than the drake in question. Seeing as he is a baby dragon and how he has no real sense of fashion by going as a dragon in a rubber like suit. Few words came to the human's mind:

''He needs help.''

Back to the topic at hand: reviewing the aspects and interests of the holiday and complimenting ponies on their costumes, the group came into the town square, decorations and games going on all around. Lively music was playing, ponies were talking, and the atmosphere seemed good. Going over to the apple-bobbing tank and spying a young colt struggle and fall in, Applejack helping him out.

''Hey Applejack, happy Nightmare Night.'' Twilight greeted. Turning and cracking a smile, the scarecrow pony returned the gesture in kind.

''Howdy guys, nice costumes.'' The earth pony complimented. Puffing his chest out in pride, Spike took that for an excuse for his terrible wardrobe.

''She meant us Spike. Do try and stay level about this.'' The vampire chuckled. Conversating for a few minutes, all went quiet as Mayor Mare made an announcement.

The group turned their 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.

''Agreed.'' The human and vampire backed his play.

''Once every year, ponies 'shed' their skin, how have you, my friends been?'' Zecora arrived, In a mystic shaman's outfit.

''Alright, everything has been calm and dandy.'' The human smiled.

The conversation drifted back to Mayor Mare's topic when a chance to experience a part of Nightmare Night was offered.

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

Passing through a part of the Everfree that showed an easy view of the town, a stone statue In front, a depiction of a pony with armour looking rather menacing 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.

''But why?'' Frank inquired.

''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 the crowd, prompting their immediate leave.

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

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

She chuckled as those of us who didn't flee stayed and looked at the sky turning awful darker than would have been more comfortable with.

''Okay, now what Is It?'' Twi observed the skies.

Thunder and lighting filled the air as we took a few steps back as It started to rain somewhat, and by that count: was a lot. Lightning sparked in and out, the clouds grew a darker shade, the wind began to blow fiercely and a figure loomed its shadow to the eye of the clouds. For a better look, a pair of bat-winged stallions flew towards the statue, hauling a carriage that held a cloaked pony with their head down. Coming to a stop at the base of the statue, everything went quiet. Stepping off, the figure's hood was taken off to reveal the princess of the night, Princess Luna.

''Princess Luna!'' Twilight smiled.

''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 boomed with the Royal Canterlot voice.

Holding their ears in discomfort, Jamir winced and looked ecstatic to see one of his lovers.

Walking over and kissing her on the nose, the Luna blushed as they came into a embrace.

''Greetings, love: I trust thou are enjoying tonight?'' Her voice sounded rich and graceful, with a hint of old Equestrian Royal speech.

''I am.'' He stretched. ''And I know is must be a little hard to even show up at this time of year because of...well I'm trying to say that-

She cut him with a hoof to his mouth.

''Tis alright love: as much as I find it to be a tad vexing, this has to be a step to otherwise convince our fellow ponies that their princess only wishes for love and admiration. And if we have our love here with us...then we would not care of other's opinions.'' A few tears left her eyes.

Brushing them aside and looking into her eyes, a moment of silence befell them as everyone else watched on with curious intent.

''You're right about that: as long as we have each other and our friends then it won't directly matter about the other's opinions.'' He gave her a loving hug. Gathering their wits and heading back to Town Hall, the mood seemed to drop a tad as they trekked back.

5 Minutes later:

Going back to where the group started: Luna tried to go about greetings in a way 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 mayor. 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!'' A look of anger was plastered on her face.

''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.'' The human looked to the princess walking away in a tizzy.

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

''Yes, but nothing too much: do not want a heart attack victim.'' The human, his marefriend and pet panda followed. Luna's trail led them back to the statue near the Everfree. Slumped over with a sad look on her face, the human approached and took a seat next to her. Finding the right words to say, the human waked on thin Ice.

''Are you alright?'' He finally decided.

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.''

As if on schedule, an idea was offered.

''Oh,oh! Ms. Fluttershy can help! She has a nice voice.'' Xenia moved out from the pouch and onto the human's shoulder.

''That..actually may be a good Idea.'' He held his chin in contemplation. Finding that to be a solid lead as any, the group set off to Fluttershy's cottage.

A few minutes passed and the group came upon the dark, silent cottage. Walking up the small ramp, the look of shut windows and turned off lights showed for a longing silence as Twilight knocked on the door.

''GO AWAY! NO CANDY HERE! VISITORS NOT WELCOME ON NIGHTMARE NIGHT!''

Or that could be good enough.

''Uh Fluttershy, It's me Twilight.'' The unicorn hesitantly listened for a response. The door slowly opening, the timid pegasus showed her face and any previous feelings of possible rage disappeared.

''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?'' The human asked.

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

''Shall our lessons begin?'' Luna's voice boomed.

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.''

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

''Good, good.'' The human complimented.

''How...Is this?'' Her voice sounded more natural.

''Nice job Princess: right Ms. Fluttershy?'

''Mmm-hmm.''

''And... how about now?'' She spoke perfectly. Receiving a nod from all four of them, Luna smiled and bear-hugged Fluttershy to the point where her eyes nearly popped out of her skull.

''Thank you dearest Fluttershy: our new speaking voice shall surely win the affection of the villagers!''

With that in mind, the group along with Fluttershy made their way back to town to show the locals the change their princess made for the better.

''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.'' The human thought.

Twilight went over to Aj and tried to get some Ideas whilst the human, Fluttershy, and Luna talked to Spike and Frank, the latter not really getting a lot of time to chat with the lunar princess.

''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 looked as if a Ursa Minor came to town.

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 managed to land one on the net. Looking so ecstatic at just having a small bit of fun, she unfurled her wings and took flight for a few moments, landing with a backflip.

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

''I have a few Ideas.'' A smile came to the human's face.

Going with the flow of things, they tried pumpkin tossing, though Jamir put his own spin on It and played pumpkin ball. Having one launched at towards him, the human unsheathed his katana which he brought with him for appearance purposes and slight bragging rights and sliced a line through the gourd, sending pieces flying off.

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

''Go ahead.'' Frank went over and prepped a pumpkin. Giving the going ahead, the catapult launched with a fling.

''Here It comes!''

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.

A wave of thoughts came to the human as he got the chance to play and have some actual fun for once. A game that he was certain his lover would enjoy had to be search and destroy: pretty much capture the flag, but a tad different.

Time Skip: 10 minutes and a small cleanup later:

After the events of the game, which mostly included chasing: the group headed back over to the town center to enter In the 'best costume' contest, and not to jump the gun, but Jamir hoped he would get 1st.

Talking for a few minutes as slips were entered, 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.'' The vampire added competitive flare to his voice.

''And how am I a faker?'' The human made his way up the wooden steps and onto the stage.

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

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

''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.'' He smelled the rose in his hand.

''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.''

The crowd was silent for a second before a mix of 'Artorius' and 'Dracula' rang out. Looking to be the mediator for this, the mayor made her decision as to who gets 1st.

''It appears we have a tie, one way to settle this would be to-''Look out!'' Lavender shouted, coming to the party dressed as a bumblebee while her unicorn daughter, Rose went as a little ghost.

A low moan emanated from the crowd as a tinge of magic fired up. Looking over, the source turned to be that cloaked pony using his horn. The disturbance revealed Itself as a pack undead ponies rising from the ground. Scattering away, the putrid smell, torn flesh, decaying and mutilated bodies forcing everyone within reach to cover their nose and back away. Narrowing his eyes to the stallion, the human walked over and attempted to reach for his cloak to wring his small body when he suddenly teleported a few feet away.

''You...monster. Why would you revive the dead and disturb their souls? Have you no shame?'' Frank shook with slight fear and uncomfortableness. Laughing at his question, the pony merely backed away before lighting his horn back up.

''I only do what I'm paid to: so why should I care about the dead? They're dead. Just like you will be.'' He sent a blast of magic to the Frank, the magic seemingly going for his chest when it ricocheted off the blade of the human's sword and struck a walking zombie pony, knocking it over like a rag doll and slowly getting back up, cracking and bending its body a way that looked to be impossible. Blowing the smoke of his blade, he took the sheath and sword and passed It to his friend.

''Huh? What's this abou-

''Luna.'' Jamir called with absolute calm and seriousness.

''You, and Frank take care of getting the citizens to safety while Twilight and Applejack: you buy them time and put those disturbed souls to peace while I deal with this guy.'' he glared and cracked his knuckles.

''Ha! You think that you, a bucking ape or whatever the hay you are can possibly best me?! This I want to see.'' His neck was cracked, showing his determination and equal skill. Crouching down focusing his eyes, the unicorn shot a beam of magic to his midsection that he took head on, the most damage being done being a bruise. Rushing forward and letting a bit of magic into his palm, he slammed it to the stallion's chest which forced him back a few feet and slammed him into a house. Getting up from the crashed carrot cart, the Dark Mage limped a bit, but nonetheless brought forth his magic and erected projectiles of stone and hurled them to the human. Doing his best to weave in and out of the attacks, his leg was brought up in an arc and struck the temple of the unicorn as he knocked a tooth out and forced him to a sitting position.

''Nice try.'' He smiled.

Using the position to his advantage, the stallion delivered a buck that pushed the human's soles to the ground as he slid back. Growling, his magic pulsed and swayed, creating a trio of magic tendrils from behind his back that extended his reach beyond 5 feet. Using the first two to propel himself to the air, the last one brought a massive rock along as it contacted his jaw and brought a massive pain to the Mage's head. Spitting out blood and charging, the human did the same as their magic met each other In the middle and cancelled each other out. Jumping up and thrusting his front hooves forward, the human slid underneath and caught him midway and forced the momentum back as he slammed his body to the ground, a pained groan coming from him. Putting magic into both his fists, he slammed one down where the stallion's head was, narrowly missing and creating a head-sized crater. Bringing his right fist down, the same result albeit slower than the first. Growling in rage, a tendril found its way to the throat, holding the pony in place.

''Get...off me...you bastard.'' He wheezed. A curious look overtook the human's previous angry look as he smiled and only increased the pressure.

''No.'' He whispered.

''If I let you go, then you may as well do this again: but I will get a look at your face before you meet your demise.'' He grew sadistic. Pulling the hood back, It was revealed a pony that had a blue flat mane and mustard yellow eyes that were widened and a paralyzed look on his face. Ever so gently increasing the pressure, his breath began to come in short, quick sets, face slightly sweating, and whole body shaking as he looked to have another minute or two before it happens.

''Anything you want to get off your chest before...well, you know.'' The human straddled the male, forcing his eyes to look no other way.

''The...plan...will proceed a-a-as p-p-plaaaa-n-n~...'' His voice grew silent as the tendril wrapped its way around his throat so much that blood began to pool out of his mouth. Getting up, the sounds of slashing and magical blasts alerted the human to a bigger threat. Looking over, Aj and Twilight finished helping evacuating the general citizens and joined Luna and Frank in taking the hoard of undead ponies out. Paying the now dead pony no mind, his tendril grabbed the leg of a limping pony and threw it to the air which the head was slashed through by the human's sword being wielded by his friend. Joining the fray, the human worked in tandem with Frank, throwing bodies towards him and slashing the heads off that seemed to stop any further movements. As the princess looked to be slightly disturbed by the dead bodies, that did not deter her as she sought the quickest way to end their suffering. Twilight and Aj combined their efforts and herded them together in one spot, allowing the humans to wipe out remaining dozen with a surge of condensed magic that severed the remaining heads. Breathing a slight sigh of calmness, the first thing to come to his mind was more along the lines of:

''What the hell was that?''

''Okay, that's the last of them.'' Twi Informed the princess and human as the rest of 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 had been baffled.

''Whoever he was, somepony had to pay him to do this.'' Frank pointed out.

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

''Come, we should discuss this at the library.'' Luna stated.

Before we left, a few of the ponies who Initially were scared witless were now voiced their appreciation on how Princess Luna stood up and helped fight against the undead. The ponies...loved her, they cared and respected her. Just like her and her mate set out to do. Though small, the townsfolk began to see the true, yet somewhat gruesome side of their princess. Walking back to the library, the human pecked her on the lips and held in a loving hug.

''I'm so proud of you: regardless of how you were treated, you didn't let that stop you from defending your subjects when the time came.''

''Of course...it felt a tad saddened to hear and see our subjects flee but it looks to be a wonderful night to enjoy.''

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

Another Place

The feeling of sleepiness and dreams almost threatened to keep the human in bed, only to be replaced by grogginess. Through the darkness and silence a voice came in and out of the human's range of hearing.

''Hey...wake up.'' It echoed. Oh god, that voice felt like a thousand needles piercing him at once. Why does it feel like the room is spinning? The human tossed and turned in his bed, doing his best to drown out the voice and get some much needed rest that he...wait. Bed? Groaning as the pillow below him was covered with spit, showing it must have been a time following his sleep. When he opened his eyes, the very first thing he noticed was the slight weight on his stomach. Looking down, it was Xenia, looking rather worried.

''Huh? oooh, what happened?'' His thoughts felt like a ton of bricks. Going over and licking his nose, his pet friend expressed her happiness to see her master awake.

''How...long was I out?'' His question came.

''Almost an entire day.'' A soft voice replied. The source revealed to be Spike. From his current position, he did not see the drake as he held Xenia in his hands and slid his feet over. Below him was Frank, Iron, Valiant, and Spike: all looking concerned. Jumping down, his body took a moment to adjust to the sudden change and almost ended up hurling.

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

''But where the hell are we?''

''Prison.'' Valiant said bluntly.

''Wait, what?'' He asked.

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

''How the fuck did this happen?'' Was his question. Then It was remembered.

''That bitch Azure did this!'' The human 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 the bunk and looking out the window, he saw that the surroundings reminded him 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.'' The human spoke with confusion.

''What?'' Everyone asked.

''We're In the Griffon Kingdom.'' His voice deadpanned.

Azure Pov, Canterlot:

The mare stood in front of the large throne room doors and looked on with assurance. With the human gone, she could better pull off her plans. Making sure of nobody else's presence, she fired up her horn and took the guise of one of the Royal guards. Putting on her best dissapointed expression, she walked through.

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

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

Having explained to them In great detail what happened from her perspective and by the time she wrapped up the 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.'' She 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.'' She 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.'' A look of sadness was on her face.

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

''Yes, Princess.'' The urge to wash her mouth out with bleach seemed good.

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

''Probably fighting to death.'' A thought came to her head.

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 scent 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.

''That looks...good. Can I have some master?'' My red panda nipped at my ear.

''Of course.''

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, a Red Panda 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 held his claws up.

''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.

Let's Hatch A Plan!

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 came over and laid a hoof to Luna's shoulder.

''...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 grew concerned.

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 frowned.

''That's horrible!'' I exclaimed.

''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.'' Luna tried to use her amulet, but ended with the connection cancelling out.

''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 through her tears.

''Well, Is there anything that we can do princess?'' I asked my mentor.

''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 rushed to my side.

''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.

Reflections

Jamir's Pov, A month later:

''Okay, I do not want to have that happen ever again.'' Frank sounded perfectly sane. Hell, everyone is 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 people 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 observed.

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

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

''Master, what's a psycho?'' Xenia asked from inside her pouch.

''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 observed him gently tapping the door.

''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, Xenia sleeping soundly in her pouch on the upper part of his body.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, Xenia was sleeping so she was exempt 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 voice 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 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 pills.'' 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 backed away a good distance and brought out his magic and formed a sphere and did. the. unthinkable. He made his magic into a wave and let It fly towards the girl's 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 skyies 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.

Crunch Time

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.'' The griffon smirked.

''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.''

''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 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.''

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. Setting Xenia down, we rehearsed our move.

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

3...

2...

1...

SMASH!

We hefted our chairs at the right time, knocking two guards out while Xenia went over and bit one, providing Battering the chance to take care of with a buck to the face while Spike was on the defensive covering out flank with laying down some fire. 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?''

''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:

The alarm going off did little to calm me down, not to say I'm scared, just very surprised. 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 katana, Armour, and Excalibolg calling my name. Securing the former on my belt 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 figured.

''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 Xenia went with the others to 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

Something New

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.

''This fucking cocksucker again. I swear I might kill him this time!'' I spawned thousands of thoughts.

''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.

''Eww, that smells.'' Xenia clutched her nose.

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.

''Master, I want to take a bath.'' Xenia called inside the pouch that Frank had on. Poor thing.

''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 Put Up 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 And Painful Reunion

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, now 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.'' 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.

''Can we play something else?'' Xenia asked.

''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.

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 shirt 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 wear 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 This Is Wrong, Then Screw Being Right!

"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.

Health Lessons

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 began to cry.

''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.

Time To Go...Somewhere

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 whispered, happy to embrace her in a hug.

''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!''

Really? This, Really?

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.''

Hoarders Never Prosper.

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.

''Nice to see you too girl,'' I gave her ears a scratch.

''Isn't' this fun?'' she bounced up and down in joy.

Patting her head, It felt nice to get reaclimated with everything around me,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 downstairs!'' 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 hoof? 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?

Looking For A Sex Partner...Yes, That

Jamir's Pov Two Days Later, Canterlot Throne Room:

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.

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?''

''Not by a long shot, but don't worry: this part of the trek probably won't almost get you killed.'' Kanaranx joked.

Comforting.

Inside The City

Dragon Outlands, : Jamir's Pov:

Following the defeat of The Opposer and nearly losing myself to the madness of experimenting with my new form, I felt that due to all that happened, I could be somewhat at fault of how I behaved. But seeing as I did give the guys a week's notice, I have no time to be wasting.

Telling Radiance about what we really came here to do, and Immediately he narrowed his eyes and called us to a nearby tavern. Walking through, a bunch of prying eyes stared at us, a good portion looking at me In surprise and traces of fear. Picking a seat In the back, the hushed conversations and quick glances would have unnerved me, but that Is a small matter to me as I have no time for dealing with lies.

''Hey, Isn't that him?'' I heard one dragon whisper to another.

''Yea, The Opposer almost had him, but after that huge trick the human pulled, I'm thinking twice about talking to him.'' Another said.

''But...didn't the human spare his life?''

Now, that Is wrong: I did not spare him: his life ending Is of no Importance to me, so I pushed events forward quicker.

''Why...did you not end me?...'' The titan dragon huffed.

looking down to his lifeless face, one thing was already known we both understood: he's already dead.

''I do not kill all willy nilly for pleasure, be this any other time; that option would still be enforced. Your life Is not below mine nor above anyone else.''

''How did they hear about that already?'' I sat down, Twi and Aj sitting next to me as Spike, Kanaranx, Rainbow and Radiance sat opposite to us. Calling on the waitress to bring us something to eat, we all came together and spoke softly.

''Word gets around here pretty fast: but you should be wary If a few try and be dumb enough to challenge you.'' The guard replied. ''But back to our little 'conversation'? Are you certain about this?''

''Yes, we have a undeniable confession from warden Sergo admitting that Azure Light would be coming here to retrieve a package of sorts.'' Twilight stated matter of factly.

''Is that so-well It appears that-''Here you go, 7 peach juices and 4 hamburgers.'' The waitress brought our food. Setting the basket and mugs down, I marveled at how delicious the food looked. A cool cup of pale orange colored juice In a wooden mug called my name as I brought It to my lips and sipped the liquid, the feeling running down my throat and quenching my thirst from the long journey over here.

''So.'' The dragon tore Into his food. ''This Azure Individual sounds like the same pony Kan-Kan described to me some time ago and you mean to say she outwardly betrayed and almost killed you?'' He asked.

''Mmm-hmm.'' I mumbled before swallowing my juice. ''She must have plotted this from the first time she saw me and been studying my habits to see where I could slip up and she succeeded...almost.'' I groaned.

''What exactly happened?'' Rainbow asked.

I guess I never did tell them what happened to us personally while In prison, but the things I saw when I was drugged was so real, I could swear that shark attack was so real. Thank God she did not find that out: If there's one thing that can make me turn tail and officially cower like a little girl, It would be sharks. Ever since I was a little kid, a few movies such as jaws and pretty much any movie with sharks has just given me this tingling feeling whenever I went swimming as a child. (which was not often)

11 years ago, Belle Isle, Detroit:

''Honey, don't go too far out!'' My mother warned me as we finally arrived at the beach. Bouncing up and down In my seat, my black swim trunks ached to touch and feel the depths of the water.

''I won't mommy: I just want to go and play with the fishes! Wonald says you can't because they aren't friendly!'' I pouted at my 9 year brother, Ronald though I had nicknamed him 'Wonald' since his name Is like the clown Ronald McDonald, this way anybody can tell the difference. Looking out the window of our old 2004 red mercury cougar, he sighed and repeated: ''You can't num-nuts! Fishes aren't friendly, especially sharks.'' He snickered and clutched his backpack.

''Why? You make them sound like their bad fishes! Wonald, I'll prove you wrong and hug a shark: just you wait!" I hopped out and ran to the water.

''Jamir, wait up!'' My mother called after me, holding her chest to catch her breath from chasing me pretty much from the car to the beach that was on the other side of the massive picnic gazebo that separated the parking lot from the wide open ocean.

Being 5 years old at the time, I had no Idea of what came next or If It was even real.

''Yay! here I come fishes!'' I hopped Into the deep ocean and swam around.

''Come on Wonald let's play!'' I was eager to splash water In his face for making fish seems like meanies!

''Huh? Where are you?'' I wondered. Then again nobody else was In the water, just me. Looked to my left. Nothing. To the right? Nothing.

''Oh well, I can befriend those fishies myself!'' I swam out In the current and looked for any friends to play with. A few minutes In, a shape began to rise out of the water. It was big and had a fin on It's head.

''Oh, fishie, fishie!''I swam over. Reaching my hand out to touch the fin, It suddenly leaped up and showed It's massive serrated teeth and ragged body casting a shadow that blotted out the sun as my eyes suddenly met darkness. Thrashing around, I couldn't see where I was going, the harsh water filling my lungs and threatening to drown my air supply out. I was down under for so long, my nose began to bleed, body Involuntarily grasping for help to which none was found. Trying to get my bearings, my eyes opened enough to gaze at the approaching figure that swam at me with blinding speed.

''...Jamir! Jamir!'' A distant voice called.

Struggling to keep conscious, that proved to be very hard as my lungs felt bloated with water and my chest heavy as a rock. Feeling a quick thump, the violent sounds of water getting hurled back up left me feeling like a crusty sponge. In short, my brother pulled a prank on me with a type of rubber suit and almost made me drown to death. Good thing my mother came over and pulled me out In time, going right after my brother and his punishment the second I could safely breath again. The gist: me and water are not fond of each other. I'm barely able to step In without a chill running down my spine and paranoia flooding my mind.

Everyone at the table looked shocked at what I told them, Twi laying a caring hoof on my leg.

''It's okay, everypony has fears but It's those fears that make us who we are.'' She nuzzled my chest.

''Yea, heck ever since the parasprite Incident, those little buggers kinda gives me the creeps.'' Rainbow chuckled.

''Same, 'ere, but ah often show mah fear on tha Inside.''

That made me feel a slight bit better at knowing even the girls have fears, but that's kinda a known within itself. But back to other matters.

''That's behind me now. But now that we're here do you have any idea where Azure might want to go when she gets here?'' I looked to Radiance.

''Let's see.'' He closed his eyes. ''A number of places comes to me: but seeing as she's the type who plays dirty then...the only place I can think of would have to be either the Library Of The 12 Scholars or the palace but the second she tries something the guards should take care of her, but I'll go check in at the palace to get a piece of mind.'' His face grew wary.

With those places in mind, a few more things had to be taken care of, two being equally as important.

''Which brings up another issue: Spike here is going through his cycle and we came here to get him a partner to curb his...urges. You know anywhere or any kid dragons we can find?'' Kanaranx asked. Hearing the question, he got a smile that looked as perverted as comforting.

''I know exactly the place: oh boy, your inexperience will kill you.'' He patted Spike on the back and got up.

''I'll take care of him, don't worry: do what you came here to do: me and Kana will make sure he gets 'taken care of.' Come on, this will be fun.'' Radiance walked the drake outside, but not before I flagged him down about the whole child issue.

''Meat? Head down to the business district and ask for one Mr. Trapjaw: the meat vendor and tell him I sent you and you'll be fine.'' He walked out with Spike and Kanaranx.

''So what do we do?'' Rainbow asked. Standing up, we went outside, avoiding the looks of some rather curious dragons. Stepping out in the hot, dry sun made me slightly cringe as I answered her.

''First thing we came here to take care of: head down to the business district and secure what we came here for, then we can head over to the palace to broker our official peace treaty with the lord and lady: then we can focus on finding that backstabber.'' My point emphasized by the sudden change of tone from the thought of her. Taking note of my discomfort, Rainbow tried to take my mind off it.

''Come on.'' She hovered beside me. ''We know how much you want to...

''Kill her?'' I helped her out.

''Yea. That. But, maybe you shouldn't let that get to you right away: we can take our time doing this.'' She chuckled.

''That's true, that slippery rattlesnake should be the least of ya worries. We came here to help out Twilight, not to get revenge on what Azure did.'' Aj stopped me with a hoof.

They seriously did not just suggest I should...let her run free? That can't be it, she needs to pay. Looking to my hands, I got a second to really think.

''Was what Azure did unforgivable? Yes. Should she pay for that that? Hell yes. But you can't-

''But nothing!'' Twilight shut me up. ''I don't know about you but I think that revenge is not the right path to undertake when it could littered with danger. The right thing to do would be to let the authorities take care of and her and they can handle her punishment from there. You always go head in without thinking and do you ''SNIFF!'' know what that has gotten you into? A month in ''SNIFF!' prison away from us.'' She paused. ''Even if they don't show it, the girls and myself have agreed that you should give up on going after her. She turned tail and ran away which tells me that she is a coward. All that matters is that you're here with us, so I'm asking you from the deepest part of my heart: will you please just give up on her and just stay with the ponies you love? We...''SNIFF!'' won't be able to handle losing you again. Please.'' She embraced me in a hug, Rainbow and Applejack following after.

Shit...they really don't want to go and do this, do they? While I can see their potential worry, I know that I can take on Azure with pretty much no complications, B-but w-what she did. How can anyone just plainly look that over like nothing? I sure can't. But maybe I am a fool: just trying to get time back that was lost and I'm just using Azure as a conduit to put the blame to somebody else. I escaped, made allies, got what I needed to get done accomplished, and came back home...that should be enough.

''You know what?'' I asked.

''...She's not worth me wasting my time, not when I have more Important responsibilities...like my child. I-no. It's a fact that you girls are right: I don't need to get revenge or anything like that, all I have or could ever need is with my heart.'' I brought them into a hug that a few bystanders looked at us strangely, but went on about their way. Walking down the slanted road, taverns, metal shops, a few inns and a few gathering spots passed by us as we ventured towards the massive circular wall that provided access to the secondary ring where the business district was leaving from the lower one. Walking up the set of stairs that seemed to go forever, I began to really focus on what we really came here to do so we can go home.

Unexpected Surprise

Azure's Pov:

Dragon Outlands, Library Of The 12 Scholars.

''You can find that book over there underneath the history section.'' The dragon librarian whom I came know as 'Misty' directed me and Wind Breaker to the shelf where I needed to get what was required. Trotting over, I paid more attention on the importance of retrieving this book will do for me. Whilst I am able to go ahead and do this however I find this way to be...more manipulative for me.

''Let's see: no, no, no...hmm...Ah! Found it.'' A smile came to my face. Bringing the oakwood styled book out from the bookshelf, a bit of dust came free and prompted a coughing fit from me. Looking at the cover, it said exactly what I needed it to: ''The complete history of the Dragons'' Giving it to Wind Breaker who lost track of events and was currently having another of his 'episodes.' That same dazed look told me that he was not paying attention and is most likely daydreaming.

''Huh...pretty birds...''He looked around and chuckled like a buffoon. Honestly, at times: I must have the dumbest luck. Get a pegasus, I told myself. He won't be that dumb, I assured. Maybe if it's not too late I can leave him here and just keep going.

''Wind Breaker!'' I shook him. ''Get your act together or I will-

''Quiet!'' Misty scolded.

Not choosing to prolong this any longer, I gave my subordinate a fair warning.

''Do you want to be like me? You know, no pride between your legs?''I furthered my point by using my magic to grab his most private area and squeeze.

''Either focus or you can go and have those male dragons claim you and I would not bat a eyelash..you do know that right?''

With that, his eyes got straight and looked alert:

''Yes, ma'am: please don't do that.'' He begged. Smirking, we got back to business and sat down at a table, the old and worn down book looked to radiate years of war, history, and secrets from within.

Opening the book, the entirety of its contents were open to me to feast my eyes on.

This is the most descriptive and dated records of the history of Dragons:

By Amadeus Clawmark

Chapter 1: The way of rule......

The earliest known way of dragon rule was classified to the closest resemblance to the order of a wolf pack with an alpha leader who would lead the rest of the group to food, defend against rival dragons, and maintain order within the group. For the passing centuries since this book was created, it was noted that this was the way of our people until one day a mysterious mare came to our predecessors and informed us of a change coming that would either make or break the foundation of our principles. At first glance, they scoffed at the thought and sent her back to where she came from, but not 2 years after the fact the biggest historical influence of our time happened: The Great Dragon War broke out. Over the death of nobility of one of our fellow dragons sparked a war with the Zebras that lasted over a period of 5 gruesome, insufferable years. Finally both sides gave up after the war reached a complete and total standstill. Both sides had spears or claws to their throats, each called a surrender. Coming to more civil terms, the Dragons and Zebras each appointed 12 of the best scholars to come and 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. Following that 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 who revolutionized the old ways and brought the Dragon Outlands to prominence. The war is a constant staple of what one death can mean to an entire nation. As one of the scholars who helped to draft and form the Proclamation I say this to those who read this: ''Anyone who has ever looked into the glazed eyes of a solider dying on the battlefield will think hard before starting a war.''

''Interesting.'' The book got my undivided attention. Taking a minute to absorb that message, I kept reading on.

Chapter 2: The Effects....

Next, the following result of making peace led to many opportunities with our now allies and friends such as discovering new medicine to use that help our people tremulously or to trade goods to better increase commerce. In the coming years, we helped shape our great nation and began put our best foot forward and build the path back back up. As with the end of the great war, something else occurred The current rulers Lord Tamulus Bright Fang and Lady Desane Arc Blight both tried to reach out the mare who came to prophesize the events that happened to attempt to get answers or clarity on the future. However, since she disappeared so long ago, none have seen her in ages as she could be dead. Due to this, both the Lord and Lady were furious that that mysterious pony came, only to provide small details that led to a bloody and brutal war with death counts that are unfathomable even to the current day. This is the way of our history and growth as a species: while it has been shrouded in mystery and death, the most we have is peace...for the moment.

''Hmm, this certainly seems like it can provide some assistance for my plans, don't you agree?'' I looked to Wind Breaker.

''Ha...bright lights...'' He lost track of himself. Again. Honestly, ever since that whole setback in the Griffon kingdom, he has been a major pain in my flank. Paying him no mind, I turned my attention back to the third chapter of the book.

Chapter 3: New perspectives

With all that happened so far, the entirety of the dragon outlands has seen its fair share of struggles, betrayal, and growth. In the rest of this book entails a portion of what the current day Dragon outlands has done and lists, mentions, and historical events that have occurred that can better provide clarity and knowledge to those who wish to learn for the sake of doing so. Though the mare that foretold the events of the great war and the overthrow of our way of ruling, the least that could be told about her from tales and whispers from the only one who still lives and can recall what she looked like: the one made this book.

''She...looked like any other pony: I have encountered. With a long flowing purple mane and tail that seemed to always breeze in random directions, a calm and stoic demeanor, and...she only spoke in a way that seemed to be of mystery or intrigue. The only thing that is confirmed about was the mark on her flank: blank..''

As I read more of this, a lot becomes so much clearer to me: what I need to do in order for my plan to work. One thing that dragons are known for are greed, pride, and most of all the fact of their stubbornness which I can use against them. Taking mental notes and returning the book from where it came, me and Wind Breaker proceeded to leave the library, the impressive rows of bookshelves and well done decor being replaced by the hot, crusty air that I cringed at. At least it was somewhat bearable inside, but this is ridiculous.

''Come, let us head to the next place.'' I put my hood up, putting me to ease.

''I thought we were going to head to the palace first.'' Wind Breaker reminded me.

''Yes, but we need to confirm one more thing than we can-''Whoosh!''

A sound stopped my advance from speaking. A familiar magical signature sparked my horn to respond but this felt...wrong. Carefully contemplating this, I looked over to see the human...walk right past me, those bucking mares with him but he looked different. His mop of hair now is flowing down to his knees, flushed with red on the outside, gold on the inside, a two tone hair color. His eye color changed from brown to red with golden trim, giving him the illusion of a spirit and his power...is reaching exponentially heights. To a degree I can just feel the magic flow off of him.

''Are we there yet?'' Rainbow Dash groaned, her eyes being stretched.

''If the map is right then we should be almost there so ya can calm your waters little ms.impatient.'' Applejack joked. Pulling back to not be seen, the human spoke with the unicorn.

''You sure about this? To my knowledge, you could very well be the first of your kind in years to do this.'' He tried coaxing Twilight out of something. She shook her head no and walked on.

''It's okay: I don't mind this, not as long as I have you and the girls with me.'' She smiled. Waiting for a minute until they passed by, I found myself needing to change my plans up almost immediately.

''Change of plans: we're heading to the palace now: we can't risk the human finding us out. Let's get what we came here for and go.'' I turned through a back alley. Keeping with my pace, everything just seemed to reconfigure itself at the drop of a hoof.

''You may escaped my clutches for now but rest assured...you and me shall meet and it will not be pretty.''

Let's Haggle

Value

The Business District, Jamir's Pov:

The blazing sun peered down on us, making my every footstep just that much heavier. A magic user and martial artist I may be, but even I can get winded from the simplest of things: heat. After walking up what seemed to be 10 flights of stairs, we made it the business district of the second ring of the city. Resting is not exactly a luxury I am afforded right now, not with Aj, Rainbow, and Twilight looking much worse for wear than I am. Panting heavily, mane stuck to their heads with blankets of sweat, and tongue slightly hanging out of their mouths, the girls needed some water. Going into my travel bag, I uncovered three canteens and gave them each one, myself taking the liberty to help Twi drink hers.

''You girls alright?'' I grew concerned. Wiping some sweat off with her hoof, Rainbow spoke albeit slow and somewhat rustic.

''Y-yea, just...this heat is getting on my nerves a little bit: we'll be fine.'' She assured me. Taking that as is, we went over took a respite from our long trek up the stairs and sat a table along the scorched road that looked to span for miles until the third and final ring showed itself, a rather large structure showing itself with a prominent feature nobody could miss: a huge banner with a shredded claw mark and a ring of fire surrounding it. Hearing the sound of desperate gulping and a sigh of relief, Applejack and Rainbow looked to be slightly better, though the sweat was still present. Holding the canteen to her lips, Twilight took very large gulps, the most being depleted in a few minutes. Gasping in satisfaction, she looked to be slightly upbeat than the rest. Man...looking at that smile just brings a tear to my eye, if I would actually cry. And yet she seems like the whole thing would be actually helping in this case. As for me, I was just barely recovering my breath from that whole and I know whilst I can fly that it would be unfair to Twi and Aj to leave them in the dust like that, plus...we can't fly up to the proceeding rings, only down.

''You feeling okay? Anything hurts, sudden 'urges', something?'' I asked for her well being. Looking down to her stomach, she flashed a even bigger smile which I almost broke down at, but maintained my composure.

''I'm fine: none the listed symptoms come to me at the moment: you want to feel?'' She pointed to her belly. Nodding, I carefully approached and listened...for a sound.

''.....Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump!'' The sound bounced off my ears and alerted me to slight kicking or the heart beating, though it is a tad difficult. Nonetheless: our child is safe, healthy, and while not completely with their parents. Holding her hoof, AJ and Rainbow came over as well, hearing what I did.

''Do you think?...'' Rainbow asked.

''Yep. Gotta be the baby kicking.'' AJ responded.

''Good, at least I know that our child is doing well: I would hate for anything to happen to him or her.'' Twilight sighed. Getting up, a voice cut through the air like butter.

''Did you say child?! Where, where I must see!'' A gruff voice sounded next to us. Turning around, a dragon around his mid forties to early fifties with a bloody apron and chef hat holding a meat cleaver looked so interested in me that he would have filleted me and slow roasted me if I didn't have my katana pressed to his neck in record time.

''Yes. Our child.'' I growled. ''What is it to you, unless you and my 'other child' want to antiquated right now.'' I threatened.

''O-Other child?'' He asked, his breath going short.

''The one to your eye sockets: so can you 'see' my point?'' I tested his willingness to crack under pressure. To my surprise he did as I would have predicted him to:

''H-Hey, I'm just a simple meat vendor that's it: no need to tear my eyes out.'' He dropped the cleaver. I waited a few moments before setting the blade down but still keeping it tight in my grip, though a few looks from some guards passing by prompted to just settle for putting it in my sheath, never taking my eyes off the dragon and wait. Meat vendor? Could he be?

''Are you Trapjaw by any chance?'' I wondered.

''Yes, how do you know my name?'' Now it was his turn to get defensive.

''We're asking the questions here! So are you Trapjaw or not?'' Rainbow grew impatient.

''Radiance sent us here: we were hoping you could provide us with some meat by any chance?'' Twilight interjected. Taking a step back he grabbed the fallen cleaver and picked it up, my muscles tensing.

''So...Radiance sent you eh? Ha! Looks like that old dog hasn't changed a bit.'' He laughed a bit, followed by speaking to us in a better sense than before.

''So what exactly brings you to my humble little meat establishment if I may be so bold?''

Figuring that it would not do so much harm to inform him of the current issue at least to a degree.

5 minutes later:

Trapjaw certainly was able to understand our current situation and sympathized with us on it and even wanted to help out with tracking Azure but I had all agreed to just...give it a rest. If she truly was the half the mare she left me to believe herself to be then she would face me but then again wimps run with their tails between their legs and I am nothing of the sort: while I can never forget what happened, I can at least set a example and not go after her just because of rage. Letting us go with enough meat to last a few weeks and a word of advice to me, we had to go to the palace to broker the treaty.

''Ya...ugh got tha treaty right?'' Aj cringed at the smell of the freshly cooked slivers of smoked Cockatrice tenders I currently am destroying with my mouth.

''Good point. I should check.'' I thought. Stopping for a moment, the girls looked to see if part of the main reason we're here is, well here. Feeling the thin and rigid parchment in my hand, I brought out of Twilight's saddlebag and viewed the golden seal of Canterlot. Yep, we're good.

''Mmm, it's here.'' I swallowed. ''Let's get a move on, seeing as if Spike gets taken care of quickly then we could be home before the days out.'' Another tender entered my gullet. Turning over, Twilight looked to be exuding one of the many traits of a pregnant woman: cravings. Her eyes tracking the current piece that was about to make its way down my mouth, she was slightly salivating until I shook her.

''Huh? Wha?'' She shook her head.

''You must be that hungry huh?'' I joked. Hearing a slight gagging sound, Aj and Rainbow must really be uncomfortable with this, but they won't have to eat this.

''Y-yea, i'm just a little n-nervous about trying this.'' She looked conflicted. Coming over and laying a hoof on her shoulder, Rainbow and Aj provided support in the midst of this.

''You don't have to do this, don't force yourself.''

''She's right sugarcube: If ya don't feel 100% okay with then take your time.'' For a moment, I almost wanted to just call this off, but she beat me to the punch.

''No.'' She laid her hoof down. ''I have to do this: not only for the sake of our child, but i'm...curious.'' She approached me. Thinking about this long and hard for a minute, I decided she's right: but there's no going back afterwards.

''You do know there's no going back once you do this: you'll technically be a...carnivore.'' I struggled to get the last word out. Eating meat? No problem for me. But Twilight...no. It's just like a band-aid: just rip it off and get it over with. Holding out the remaining 8 pieces of smoked meat out to her, she engulfed it in her magic and eyed for a moment.

''Well...here I go.'' She brought it to her mouth and took a huge first bite, stretching the meat until it snapped and broke off. Chewing it, she closed her eyes and had to be observing the taste, texture, and smell. A minute after chewing, she swallowed. Looking to her, that had to be hard.

''So...how did...it taste?'' Rainbow hesitated with the question. Thinking in deep contemplation, she slowly opened her eyes and said:

''It's...good.'' She decided. ''It's different, but good. Unlike anything I've ever tasted before: the smokey texture, glazed honey along with the gastronomic taste leaves me...speechless. It is just that good: I kinda want more.'' She looked a bit excited and finished the rest, Aj and Rainbow almost being to the point of actually throwing up. With that settled, we made our way to the palace, ignoring the looks I received from a few of the dragons who looked to carry themselves with a higher air.

Let's Do This!

Self-Restraint

Spike's Pov:

For a few minutes, all me, Kanaranx, and Radiance did was walk through some old markets, passing by some rather intimidating dragons. At this point, I kinda felt the need to suck on my claw to calm me down, but only foals and sissies do that: instead, I only kept looking ahead to the path ahead of us. Going down a long stone staircase, we walked past a door into a den of sorts. Long, velvet carpets hung from the wood-trimmed ceiling and laid out across the floor, perfume's in the air, and soft music is playing. A sign portraying the name: 'The Sidewinder' hung from above the counter where a female dragon stood, jotting down something onto a notepad. Looking around, this places looks a little too well designed. Him and Kanaranx going over and talking to her, the room was starting to get just a little bit much for me, I can hear shouting and cheering from ahead and out of the corner of my eye a salamander wearing a suit waltzed by and proceeded down some stairs, a group of 4 dragonesses with him. At a time like this, I would normally want to suck on my claw, but that's for the birds. I can handle this.

''We got a free one in...room 12: just tell him to be careful: this one seems a little feisty.'' The clerk laughed a tad nervously. Turning back to me, Radiance and Kanaranx both had looks of uncertainty but it seemed like they know what they are doing, so I shouldn't worry.

''Okay Spike, we all know you're a baby dragon.'' Radiance spoke slowly. ''But there comes a time where none of that matters: just go in there and take care of your business because based on the look and ugh! Smell...I would wager time is the important factor here, not just for you but also for Jamir. So, I wish you the best of luck, but not before giving you this piece of advice: if you see a chance, take it.'' He told me. Well, that seemed to be a bit helpful, but how is this going to help me?

''Hey, wait! Where are you going?'' The two went ahead of me. Smirking, they only gave me a thumbs up as they went into a different curtain.

''To do the same as you, to do the same as you.'' Kanaranx chuckled. Watching them disappear, I was left to myself, well me and the clerk.

''She's waiting for you, but me personally: might not even last a minute.'' Going the down the hall, the sounds of moaning of thrusting had me looking over left and right like a broken record. Back when I...almost flattened Ponyville I felt out of control, primal almost. But hearing these sounds are making a whole lot of feelings I don't think I should have come out. Walking down the numbered rooms, #12 was right down the hall from me, but on the way there I heard a particularly loud scream of pain and saw something get tossed out, the object making a thud as it fell towards me. Picking it up, it looked to be the entire length of my body and the width of a pickle jar with a shaped...oh sweet Celestia.

''I-Is this a jade thingamajig?'' I asked pretty much out loud. Hearing a familiar voice, it sounded like Kanaranx?

''That's a dildo! And give it back, we're not done with it yet!'' He yelled from room #9. A confused and shocked look on my face, I was shell shocked but picked it up and lunged it back into the curtain.

''Hey watch how you're throwing that!...it's my lunch later on.''

''....''

''What?! Not letting this go to waste!'' He proclaimed. Making a mental note to clean my claws afterwards, he sought to say one more thing.

''You want to know how sex is like math?'' He asked.

As much as I might regret this, he could give me some pointers.

''How?'' I grew curious.

''You add a bed, subtract the dullness, divide the legs, and pray there's no multiplying!'' He laughed. Ignoring that joke, if I can call it that: and proceeded to the room. Walking inside, this room looked to be something out of a somebody's mind. Long and jagged ridges spread throughout the room, the floor is decorated with rose petals, and the entire place is made out in a circle shape, giving the illusion of a cavern. In the middle sat a ginormous bed, a figure sitting there with a long cape draped over her neck accented the smirk on her face that made her body look so enticing. Around the same height as me, maybe a little bit taller, but that's up for debate. With red and black scales going up the length of her body, the spines on her head curved up, making it seem like she could cut something with those. With deep green eyes and a long slender frame, she looked to be just the type of girl who can help me out! Her face showing calmness, she waved a claw at me and wanted me to go over to where she is.

''I assume you're the one who's having 'trouble?' Guess we'll have to fix that.'' She looked to my lower region. ''Now come here and embrace me.'' She breathed. All of a sudden I felt like...doing that. Almost like her words have an affect on me.

''Yes.~'' I walked over. Climbing into the bed, she embraced me in a hug and whispered:

''I'll take good *care** of you...don't you worry about a thing*.'' She cooed. Nodding, everything felt like a massive haze on my head, struggling to focus, the kiss to my small lips got me thinking differently.

Here We Go

Spike's Pov:

Relaxing into the kiss, my entire body felt hot: not like the natural heat I exude, but more fierce. I've...never known this feeling before. No matter what I think, this dragoness puts me right back to her line of sight. Feeling her tongue probe my mouth and slink her way around, my mouth is completely open to this experience. Swirling it around the best, she took it as a go ahead to flip me over and hold me down. Panting and squealing, this feeling is amazing, but this is only kissing! Giving me a chance to breath, she looked at me with slitted eyes with a smile that seemed forced.

''Hmm, you still taste like a child: then it would be safe to assume you're a virgin?'' She teased me. Wow, now that was so uncalled for. But, I guess that I can't deny.

''Y-Yes.'' I turned my head, blushing all the more while. Bringing her face close to mine: she said something that shocked me.

''It takes one to know one.'' She whispered. Before I knew it, she brought her claw to a certain part of my body and rubbed very sensuously.

'''W-What are you doing?'' I gasped. Feeling her massage me down there, my breath went short as I got a look at the tag around her neck that said:''Zoe.'' In no time flat, a bunch of thoughts flooded my mind as I felt myself get erect at her touch. Standing upright, scaled and rigid Zoe eyed me with hunger.

''Well, aren't you quite the big one? Buuut. We can fix that.'' Zoe opened her mouth and started to slowly lick around my tip. Gasping, her mouth went around all the sensitive areas, drawing moans of pleasure from me. This...feels wonderful! How come nopony ever told me about this? With Zoe sucking me so tenderly I began to feel the tingle of thousands of needles pierce my body and force me to just sit there and take it.

''Aww how cute: you're trying to hold it in: but that's not gonna happen with me around.'' She lapped my shaft with her already wet tongue. Slurping and bobbing her head, every second feels like a massive cloud over me, legs are weak and sweat's pouring down my face.

''I'm cumming!'' I announced.

I came Into In her mouth, savoring the feeling of having my seed spurt out for the first time. I felt all hot and bothered, body shaking, moaning, and Zoe's mouth feels so warm and clingy. Feeling her lap up my tip and work her way around my shaft, a tingle came over me as I released more, eagerly swallowing and sucking all she could. Pretty soon, she let me go free and eyed me with hunger, slowly using a her claw to keep my erect.

''Hmm, you taste...a little bittersweet. No matter, we can fix that.'' Climbing up, she brought the lower part of her body to my member and slowly brought her weight down on me, a whole new feeling spread throughout my body.

''Ahh!'' I reveled at the intensity. Slicking back and forth against me, her insides feel like..I can't even tell anymore.

I resisted the urge to thrust It In and out, as I figured she might get angry if I did that.

''Whenever you're ready.'' I told her. she nodded, then slowly picked herself up, then back down, then up, and It repeated. but I heard hiss or a scream of pain come her.

''Y-Y-You okay?'' I shuddered.

''Don't worry 'bout me: you just need to f-feel good from this.'' Zoe groaned. Holding me down by the claws, she began to bounce up and down, taking her time by grinding and stopping at random intervals.

''What are you doing? Keep going!'' I demanded. Smirking, Zoe stopped to look at me.

''No.'' She firmly stated. ''Not until you beg for it.'' Seriously? She wants me of all dragons to do this?

''Well, it does feel good: and I could go on another rampage. Couldn't hurt.'' I thought.

''Please.'' I mumbled.

''Please what?'' She teased.

As he would say:

''F-Fuck me. Please.'' I made a mental note to ask what exactly that meant.

''As you wish.'' She resumed her thrusting which prompted me to cry out.

''I'm feeling something!'' Zoe yelled.

''Me too!'' I clawed the blankets and held my breath. Feeling her walls clamp down on me, I bellowed and released again. Keeping me silent with a kiss, our embrace lasted a few seconds being full of shaking, shouting and clawing with the primal sounds of other patrons echoing out in the distance. Lifting herself from off of me, the results of our arousal pooled out onto my stomach and the bed.

''S-So that w-was s-sex? Feels awesome.'' My whole body is shaking, almost can't seem respond to my thoughts.

''Y-Yea: can never get enough of it. I bet you're craving to do it more intensely now aren't you?'' She must be reading my mind here.

''How did...you-

''Know? I told you: it takes a virgin to know one, or my case took one to be able to know about others. Besides if you thought that would be enough to get me off then you are mistaken.'' Zoe kissed my nose and got off the bed. Digging through and old tarp she stopped and spoke:

''If you want to know one thing about the way dragons here operate then let it be this: we are very open. And curious.'' A pile of different items fell to the floor, one standing out to me the most.

''Is that?''

''Exactly what you think: but it would be boring cold so let's do it like this.'' She spewed a stream of fire on the object and played with it.

''Get ready for a fun time.'' Was the only thing I heard before she rushed at me.

Just Another Day

Ponyville Spa, 12:30 A.M.

''So... how do you think they're doing?''

That was a question that is currently driving a proverbial wedge on everyone's mind. Only three days have passed since the human departed alongside Twilight, Spike, Kanaranx, Applejack along with Rainbow Dash to go and rectify important matters, namely getting Twilight's child some proper sustenance in addition to appeasing Jamir's need/love for meat. Who could blame him? Besides the mares that he loves with all his heart, this also gets put to his list of imperative things. As he settled inside the warm waters of the spa, all the tension, worry along the filth of assisting Big Macintosh with applebucking vanished. Letting the water relax his stiff muscles, Frank hummed in comfort. Hey, applebucking was particularly hard this time around seeing as the 2nd strongest mare he knows cannot be reached, thus the slow, yet daunting task of striking the trees for their apples not only paid out with bits to spend, but also a sore body. Thinking to himself, the notion of Twilight being pregnant struck him like a bolt of lighting: some indication of being possible certainly was not thrown out of his mind, though seemed to be a scratch on the surface. A bout of happiness was present at the time with finding his best friend, his 'brother' in a sense took a huge step that really separates a man from a boy. The very first thing to do was to celebrate: however with the imprisonment, courtesy of warden Sergo put a major damper on that plan for the time being.

''Let me come with you: this seems like it could be a trap and I would rather be there to help you out of that then to sit by like a lump on a log.'' Frank pleaded with the human as he finished packing up his bags to depart for the Dragon Outlands. Halting his light packing for a second, he looked to his friend and chuckled somewhat before moving over and setting a firm, but comforting hand on his shoulder.

''I understand your willingness to come and help me out: know that it is appreciated...but I do have a reason for having you to stay here: I'm gonna need you stay here not only to help keep the peace while we're gone, but to also help out and keep the Diamond Dogs in check. This is not like the Griffon Kingdom: based on what Kanaranx was able to inform me about, it seems to be wise to have as few standouts as possible. Just a simple pick up and come back, nothing too crazy, I promise. This is one of those issues that I am confident that you can understand...besides you have your own responsibilities. You have Lavender whilst I have the girls: better to be one of us here to have the town at ease should something happen.'' The human walked downstairs to prep for departure.

''Right.'' Frank sounded down. Grumbling, he began to go down to see him off, but Twilight came in to chat with him.

''You okay Frank? You seem...sad.'' Twilight tilted her head. ''Want to talk about it?'' She offered a spot on the bed.

''I-It's just that.'' He paused. ''I don't get why ever since Jamir got the ability to cast magic he's seemed to be...a little more protective of me than he is you girls, if not as equally.'' He looked to the floor in frustration. He must been staring for a good minute before the unicorn cleared her throat and spoke.

''For somepony like me: this can only be a theory until proved proven otherwise but I believe the reason why Jamir is more aware of what's happening around him is due to the fear of losing you.'' She held a hoof to her chin.

No, that couldn't be the reason why. Could it? Nonsense is what that is, for no sudden reason would that be a valid outcome of that. Frank is by no means weak as he can handle his own, however small for the other side of this discussion...he finds some ground with Twilight's reasoning. With his level of magic and his Armour makes the human a formidable foe and one not to be trifled with or defeated nor deterred easily, plus he has been the recent target in the scope of those who come across their paths. Reassuring him did next to nothing as the decision to stay in Ponyville remained firm.

''That may as well be it right there Twilight: because nothing else is coming to me.'' He grew silent. Noticing this, she came over,embraced him in a hug, then left.

''Frank, if you only can only grasp one thing from all this: let it be this: Jamir only is doing what he does as a friend, protector, lover and father: protecting those and that which he loves. I know that you know that, and it's perfectly fine to feel that way. Don't worry, we'll be back before you know it and hopefully you've gained some light on this matter.'' She proceeded downstairs.

''Hmm...'' He pondered to himself.

With time passing by, he had just that: time to reflect on both of their words and come to a conclusion.

''They'll be fine: we have no need to worry.'' The steam helped to clear out Frank's sinuses and allowed him to breath better. The atmosphere around the room emanated a curious and worrisome aura, but shifted to one of calmness and peace. The unicorn guard below him sighed as he slowly climbed into the pool with him, letting the herbal properties of the spa water gave his coat a sleeker finish.

''Good, I thought for a minute that I was the only pony that had a slight concern.'' Valiant huffed. That statement by itself is a tad odd, but another voice laid gave way to a more favorable opinion.

''I felt the same way, but i'm sure they'll be okay.'' Fluttershy relaxed into her massage.

''Same here but I kinda wish we could come with them instead of just patrolling Ponyville.'' Iron facehoofed.

''Cannonball!'' A shrill voice sounded from above with a massive splash!

''Pinkie!'' Everyone scolded.

Rising out of the water and playing with her forehooves, she thought no harm of that.

''Sorry.'' She chuckled.

At that point another scream was heard, though this one in particular was accompanied by a groan of discomfort and the sound of a instant drying spell.

''Could you please take more precaution when you dive in Pinkie Pie: you almost ruined my mane.'' Rarity went over the massage tables. In all, everyone at the spa held thoughts of worry, concern or doubt but nonetheless figured next to nothing could be done at the moment: just wait for their friends and family to return to them with good news. Yet there are a few others who also feel more or less the same without directly showing it.

Canterlot Throne Room:

Everyone has the same emotions and are susceptible to falling victim to love, hate, rage, sadness, and emptiness: even the princesses. One key difference puts those emotions apart: immortality. Unlike others who can pick and choose then move on with love, Alicorns cannot. Once they pick a mate that's it. There is no second chance, no other option, none. The heart of a Alicorn only beats for one they truly and wholeheartedly love. A bond forms between the lovers, syncing their lifespans together by whatever means that are required. In short: eternal love. But there is a backlash effect to this: not done correctly can result in the destruction of the desired host or worse. For both to exist in harmony there is a ritual that has to be performed: ''Claiming.'' Due to the confusion and sudden departure of the human to the bowels of the Griffon Kingdom prison, the sisters never had the right chance to do so and the outcome of that is the slow, and inevitable painful procedure of withdrawal from the host.

Celestia along with Luna stood at the balcony outside, displaying the entire view of Canterlot to gaze upon as they contemplated.

''Sister.'' Luna sounded worried. ''D-Do you think that-

Her sister put a hoof to her mouth.

''...Yes, I do. This is most troublesome, indeed. We have to complete the ritual on time or else-'' She couldn't finish. This news disturbed both of the goddesses. No amount of magic can fix this dilemma, only love can. But their mate is miles upon miles away from them and something as simple as going to retrieve him would pose no threat to an Alicorn's heart as they are willing to fight to the death to protect and keep their property. Nothing too extreme, crazy or mad matters: once fully claimed, anything and everything will be done to keep that love. It is their life force that bonds them on levels inconceivable to mortals. Their thoughts, desires, fears, everything that can be possibly known between them is there: no matter where, when, why, or whatever it may be: they know and are suffering because of it. The darkness also consumes the two sisters and threatens to destroy all which they hold dear if not careful. At the most Celestia and Luna figured a few days before the symptoms arise, spelling possible doom. Both felt...alone, scared, unwanted, hurt and scarred.

A huge knife was torn in both of their hearts like a virus, left to fester and make sickness. They wanted him, they needed him. To feel his gentle touch, hear his soothing voice, for him to use his pride to lay claim to and ravage their bodies to no end: whisper sweet nothingness into both their ears and make the known world aware that he owns the princesses and they him.

''What do we do? Even now, I feel myself slipping...we need...him.'' Luna struggled to keep her composure.

''I agree...as well: we need to complete the ritual before late. But I also worry for the integrity of Canterlot should we up and leave.'' The solar princess sighed. In most cases, pretty much everything else that was not the safety of their subjects or land proved to be of no immediate importance.

...And yet love knows no limits.

''I will go sister.'' Luna ruffled her wings for flight.

''No, I should-

''Sister.'' Luna stared to the distance. ''I can do this, just give me the chance. Besides the longer we wait, the longer I have the urge to just randomly punt Blueblood to the nearest wall.''

''I second that.'' Celestia thought.

''Very well.'' She decided. ''Go...and bring our mate back to us: I can hardly contain this feeling in my chest.'' Celestia shuddered.

''I know: tis the same for me. Worry not, I will return with our mate: you can hold us to that.'' Luna hopped off the balcony and blasted off, creating a miniature soundwave that pushed Celestia back and chipped a few pieces the stone railing off as the trailing sound of the barrier being cracked echoed through and thrummed Celestia's ears however it could due to her casting a sound dampening spell at the last second.

''You're doing it again Luna: acting without thinking.'' The solar princess rubbed her ears and sighed. Walking back inside, she hoped to take her mind off the increasing feelings of lust and consuming darkness however one is able to do that.

What?!

Dragon Outlands:

Promenade

15:20 P.M.

A dead silence perforated through Jamir as he walked into the third and final ring of the city. One thing he noticed right off the bat: the massive size that appeared to be more than originally conceived. Fierce and massive dragons flanked every corner of the city, the smell of ash polluting the airways as distant figures came and left. The sky had longed turned to a slightly dull color, giving the impression of a vortex of destruction and broken dreams.

''What the hell is this?'' Jamir observed all he could. Taking it all in at once, sounds of screeching, bellowing, and screaming tore through the air like a sword through flesh. Walking past the large drop gate, millennia of political power, war, lies and perfidy bore into the human's mind. Why Celestia and Luna would want him to make peace with the dragons looked as promising when Spike tried his futile attempts to score with Rarity and he knows how that worked out. Back to the question picking his mind.

Why'd they suggest this is beyond me, then again: they have been acting strange lately with all the clinging and worrisome looks they've been shooting each other. Jamir figured that something's happening. Despite the philosophy of karma which he fully believed in, this cold be one of those matters that can have major backlash should he pry any further. Whatever the issue may be, he trusts the princesses can handle it it they didn't need to tell him. Then...he remembered Luna conversing with Celestia the day before he left, apparently they left the door open and sound can echo so much to a degree.

''Sister.'' Luna paused. ''We thinketh that it would be in thy best interest to inform him of our condition.'' Her voice was full of regret and sadness.

''You as well as I know that we have no idea of how'll he will react to the news: he may want to leave us.'' The solar princess sighed.

''W-Will he? ''He promised me that he would help with me-''

The throne room went quiet.

''I do not doubt or question his unwavering conviction to his responsibilities, but this...is one of those issues that he will have to accept and we are the causes of it. I just hope he will not be too upset with us.''

That same set of words plagued his mind to no end, but nonetheless did not let it take over his current priorities.

''So where's this palace? Ah'm not liking the look an' feel of this place,'' Applejack covered her nose. Moving forward at a brisk pace, various sounds and things were happening at once: citizens were disputing, buildings were beginning to crumble and it looked to be the start of something immense. As fate would have a stake in the matter, a wandering dragon waltzed by and laid eyes upon the group.

''What are you looking at bub?! Keep walking!'' Rainbow snarled. Going by a building that looked to be the subject of a raid and checking inside, pieces of glass lay strewn about, chair along with tables cut down the middle, and the quick breathing of a female dragon underneath a large counter nearby only added to the problem. Walking over, the human's hair swayed with the raging wind, a small, but noticeable trail of blackness oozed from the tips and contact Rainbow's nostrils, giving the pegasus a shock as her hooves shook and ears instinctively drooped. For that one moment in time, the rhythmic sound of her heart grew loud: to the point where she hissed.

''Everything all right sugarcube? ya seem-'' Grk! A deep pain thrummed in Applejack's head, forcing her to take a step back.

''The hay was that?'' Aj fiddled with the wave of darkness that Jamir virtually seemed to not notice.

''You think we should tell Twilight?'' Rainbow whispered.

''Tell what?'' Twilight and the human paused to voice their concern.

''Since when did''- Rainbow gestured to the growing stream - ''This starting coming out of you?'' She asked as they walked over.

''Whatever this is, it can wait until later: besides, it doesn't seem like that much of a issue.'' Jamir lied through his teeth. He had noticed this for quite some time as few parts of his body shook.

''Excuse me,'' - Jamir bent down to help the struggling dragon -''Are you hurt?''

''I-I'm fine, heh, just a little scrape.''

''Hold on ma'am, we'll get you out of there,'' - Rainbow laid her head underneath the counter - ''come on Aj.''

''Right.'' Getting underneath with her, they both held the countertop up long enough so the worker could climb out. Setting her off to the side and inspecting the damage, the most was a bruise that began to darken.

''Anything broken?'' Twilight asked to which she received a headshake.

''So, how did this -'' Jamir gestured to the mess around him - ''happen?''

The dragon sighed before speaking:

''It all started a few hours ago when some random guy came running by shouting out: ''The lord and lady has betrayed us, they have say I! Our rulers sold us out! Left us to fend for ourselves, left us alone!'' None believed him, then...he showed us a dead dragon's head but it was of eldest of the 12 scholars: Vargo Gilgamesh. After that, panic and mayhem ensued. I can't believe that this is happening! It's like the great dragon war all over again!'' She cried.

''Everyone here is acting like savages!- Twilight inhaled some ash which prompted her to cough. ''What do we do?''

''What we came here for: sign the treaty and get out of here, but- He conjured a magical bubble to shield them from potential pollution. it's being done my way.'' Before he could take two steps, a massive pain swept through his body like a brick to the temple. Groaning, he lost his footing and held onto his chest in pain.

''Jamir!'' Twilight bent down. ''Are you okay?''

''N-No!'' He screamed out. Thump! Thump! Thump! Thump! Every second, the feeling of a bomb igniting flowed through every inch of his being: his mind spun and experiencing yanking and pulling motions, his body feeling like a human conductor. No matter how, he could...feel it all. The veins in his arms pulsing, his muscles constricting, mind tearing: all threatening to consume him. Breath going short and sweat forming at a rapid pace, he struggled to stand on his feet which feels like lead, drawing him to sit back. Fighting against whatever is ailing him, the human staggered forward.

''Are you okay?!'' The words dug at his ears like a freshly made wound. At this point, drool's leaving his mouth, body hair standing on end and magic fading quickly.

''Oh my Celestia! What the buck is wrong with you?'' Rainbow inspected the forming bits of literal darkness spreading from his face and working down his entire body, his entire body glowing blue and yellow at random intervals. Branching to his eyes which are flashing the same colors. Something akin to a banshee's wail came from his mouth, spewing out a dark wave of living nightmares as his very core shook with fear. The ground starting to cave in underneath them, Jamir had to get a hold of himself, lest he risks killing himself or even worse.

''Come...on!'' A chill went down his body. ''G-Got to c-control thisssssss!'' He held an internal battle from within. Taking slow, but labored breaths calmed him down to the point where the mysterious markings pulsed down to a hum. Feeling his eyes damp, he wiped them to reveal blood and tears, but this was not the worst. A demon of some kind whisked its way around his throat, limiting his ability to speak.

''Can you stand?'' Twilight grew concerned, her ears splaying down. By whatever miracle, Jamir stood up and maintained his spell, giving the lavender unicorn a pat on the head.

''I'm f-fine.'' He breathed through his teeth. ''Let's just get the...treaty signed.'' He moved forward, having to lean on Rainbow for support.

''Easy there big guy. Let's-

''watch out!'' Applejack charged at a speeding dragon to have the latter and everything in the surrounding area forced back by a burst of magic. Barely holding his darkness infused hand in the air, it fell to his side. In a split second, a blast of fire rocketed towards Twilight, only to be misdirected by the shield Jamir put up.

''B-Big mistake.'' He growled. Gathering what little power he could, he slammed his palm to the ground to spark a concussive magic pulse that forced all not bolted down to be flung in the air. Looking ahead, everything seemed to be getting worse: food was being stolen brutal and bloody fights breaking out, and buildings giving way due to weak structure and stirring up massive dust clouds of rock, glass and soot.

''Hold on!'' Twilight put up a barrier to combat the flying pieces of debris striking the shield randomly.

''Ahhh!'' The darkness spread to his chest, pulsing wildly. Combating the thought of his mind snapping, the pain seemed to increase...but then past the midst of insanity, a voice squeaked in his mind that forced him to do a double take.

'' ...ove...a-are you...th-hello?...huh- ahh!'' The presence of the voice sounded tortuous. Struggling to keep his eyes open, the human peered into his own mind and located the source of the voice.

''L-Lun-na? T-The hell's going on, a-are you okay?'' Each word felt like a ton of sand.

''Explanations can come later: j-just tell me where y-you are!'' Luna's voice was on the verge of cracking. Noticing the stop in his movements, Applejack called out his name.

''I-In...the Dragon Outlands...on my way to g-get the treaty signed: y-you?''

''Ahhhh!'' Luna screeched, giving the human more issues to deal with. ''O-On my...way love, w-we have t-to-

''...L-Luna? Luna!'' He yelled.

''What about her?'' Rainbow asked.

Clutching the ground that is now turning to mush, one last scream exited the human's mouth before his back arched to unimaginable levels.

''Jamir!'' The girl's concerns went on deaf ears.

''Fu.''

''Fu?'' Rainbow repeated.

''Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck!!!!!!!''

Meanwhile With Luna:

''Ahh!'' Another wave of pain hit the lunar princess, forcing her flight pattern to be misdirected and to almost tumble to the ground. Zipping by aged trees and soaring past the growing clouds like a drunken Rainbow Dash performing 3 sonic rainbooms in a row certainly helped Luna to make headway to the outlands but complications such as strands of darkness began to eat away at her mind and body, forcing her to clench her teeth from the pain.

''I wonder how my sister fares with this condition: I only hope our love is better than us.'' Luna barely maintained consciousness as her eyelids dripped blood and muscles clenched uncontrollably. Though difficult, Luna shook her head to gain clarity, but failed to see the enormous tree in approaching until the last second.

Crunch!

A blast of magic arched a few branches off the tree that provided Luna with a brief respite. She then steadied her flight and found the right updraft to carry her forward.

''Hoo, that was c-close.'' Sweat dripped off her face and thought for a moment. ''I must hasten my advance: no doubt my sister is living this nightmare the same exact way I am, and no doubt that Jamir's struggle has to be even worse.'' Trying her best to ignore the growing pain along with the wave of darkness preparing to consume her body, a mighty flap of her wings propelled her further in the clouds, laying eyes on a trio of massive dragons flying.

''Would be best to follow them.'' Luna figured as she matched the titan's speed.

Back In Canterlot:

The current situation could have fared better. With her sister going on to locate and bring back the very object of their attention, affection, and worries put a strain on Celestia's mindset as she contemplated on her bed. A few minutes ago, the solar princess finished 'reading' a book(most likely got upset and angry and vaporized it.) and was now thinking of other ways to take her mind off of the growing pain along with worry placed on her.

''Oh what am I to do? It seems as if a invisible cloud lingers over my head and has me in a daze: this feeling has not occurred to me ever since Discord managed to take my triple layered chocolate cake and turn it to dirt.'' She groaned. Celestia has fought many foes in her time: some were tortured souls on the wrong path, others misguided tyrants and even family. Seeing as she possessed more endurance than her sister, the immediate symptoms were downset a tad. Not only did she worry about her lover, but also the fate of her faithful student and her niece or nephew.

What should I do? Perhaps...that could suffice.

''Guard!''

A few moments later and a white pegasus guard came bolting through the door.

''Yes princess?''

''I wish to be left alone for the next few hours: by no means am I to be disturbed. And you are to tell none of what you saw. Is that clear?''

''Ma'am!'' The pegasus sped off. Walking back over to her bed and contemplating the current slew of emotions swirling through her, while not limited had her up the creek. Fighting back a shiver, Celestia called some time to herself as to take her mind off of the growing darkness that has now spread past her hind legs and wormed its way around her midsection.As she her head down on her pillow, Celestia surveyed the ceiling with concern.

''Luna...please hurry: I do not know how long this may last before things get worse.''

Approaching the palace:

''Whoa, so this is the place? Very artistic.'' Jamir complimented. Even though he's in pretty intense pain, he knows this can be a lot worse than having a predator missle going off every few minutes. Now in hindsight, a sliver of the palace could be seen from their entry on the way here, but observing the rustic and medieval structured castle certainly put matters in perspective.

''Yea, had me looking the same way: heh, I still remember the days when the new recruits would come in and try impress us.'' Radiance recalled as the group walked through the long, detailed hallway. As to the nature of how Spike, Kanaranx, and Radiance came to be? Along the way to the palace, the guys came through, observing the destruction and mayhem of the riots.

''Well,''- The human used his magic to make his weapons invisible and set them to be enveloped in his aura to not be hassled for weapon checks, hell was hard enough for him to get past the 1st gate. Coming to a door that looked to be forge from gold itself drowned out the faint sounds of shouting from the window behind him.

''Shall we go and get this over with? Something tells me that we want to be a considerable distance away from here.'' Twilight reached in her saddlebag and showed the treaty.

''Yes, please.''

''Yep.''

''Same.''

''...Agreed.'' Kanaranx, Spike, and Jamir sounded. Pushing the large doors open, the creaking alerted a few guards as they rushed in, spears in hand: all pointing to Jamir.

''State your purpose of being here in this time of crisis ape!'' A young teen from about 14 to 17 locked determined, though scared eyes with the human.

''Look,'' - He set a spear particularly close to his adam's apple down, to no avail. ''Silence!''

or that could be a option.

''Hey! Watch where you point that!'' Rainbow complained. The only ones who were not having their lives immediately put in danger was the three dragons.

''Oh, what a nice looking mare we have here: nice, supple flank, cute face, seems like a nerdy type and...Oh my. Pregnant too? Mmm, make you just want to eat her plot out like cheesecake.'' The snobbish teen 'complimented.'

''That's too disgusting even for me.'' Kanaranx grimaced.

''Oooh, you pervert: if only I wasn't restricted like this, I would-

''Would what? Beg me to mount you?'' He slithered to which Twilight gagged.

''Hey come on now- he grabbed her face and forced her to look into his deep green eyes.

''I may let you and your pony friends go...but only if you call me master.''

The human had his head down to the marble floor as the red and gold colored bangs obstructed his face. So far at this point the mentioned darkness seemed to calm down, but showed traces of staying as strange markings began to form. His anger is at an all time high: Yevon, Discord, Sergo, Azure, and now this douchebag? Only fuels his rage to the point where he's growling somewhat. Every part of his body just said of wring his little neck, but he knew the bigger image here: the treaty. Sign that and get the fuck home and away from this. For the longest period, silence engulfed the room for a few short minutes until a laugh echoed.

''What is so amusing? Now, of all times.'' A prissy voice interrupted the break in laughter.

''...Your majesty: I would first like to thank you for seeing us on such short notice, you have my thanks.'' Jamir spoke almost to a whisper.

''And who instructed the savage to speak?'' A deep, powerful voice spoke with disgust. Yet another bullet.

''This is the foreigner that had everybody in a daze: he took on The Opposer and spared him, your lord and ladyship.'' Radiance bowed.

''Hmm.'' Tamulus contemplated. ''Bring him forward.''

''I agree as well: let us have a better look at this champion.'' Lady Desane said.

Lowering their spears, Jamir walked forward, treaty in hand but not before he gave that particular dragon a warning.

''You got lucky this time: if I ever see you again there will be trouble following you.''

The dragon guard laughed before quipping.

''Try it...fag.''

Losing his composure for a second, Jamir came so close to attacking, but nonetheless turned around and proceeded to the monarchs.

''Lord Tamulus Bright Fang and Lady Desance Arc Blight, descendants to the previous lord and lady Scaleton...we have come from Equestria bearing a peace offering.'' He spoke slowly.

Looking to his sister for a moment, both of them smirked and sought to hear him out.

''You have come here in the midst of a large scale panic proclaiming a peace treaty? My, what a massive set you must have...very well we will give you our time to-

''Ahhh!'' A voice yelled as a window was shattered. Hearing a figure's body hit the floor and groan as the human gasped. Eyeing the lunar princess on the floor with bits of darkness covering her face, lower body, and even horn shocked the human.

''Luna?!'' Jamir rushed over.

''Princess Luna?''

''What is the meaning of this?'' Lord Tamulus demanded.

A few minutes later:

After debriefing the entirety of the situation to the monarchs in a few minutes and then having Luna explain the true nature of this strange occurrence and feeling that he, Celestia and Luna put even more of a damper on the current headache Jamir is experiencing. Upon hearing this, the lord and lady was so merciful to go ahead and sign the the treaty. During all this, Jamir had his head down.

''...Why?'' He asked after a moment of silence.

''Huh?'' Luna asked.

''Why didn't you tell me about this before? I thought what you were talking about with Tia was something you could handle, but I guess not.'' He looked away, only to have Luna put her hooves to his head and force his eyes back.

''I'm sorry: we never to meant to deceive you, it's just that an Alicorn's heart is prone and drawn to only one lover: there are and have never been another. We...were scared that you might choose to leave-'' She wiped tears from her eyes. ''I was afraid that you might abandon us and-

Jamir cut her off with a hug that silenced her crying.

''Don't you ever think that Lulu: I would never think of leaving you, I was just surprised, that's all. But the fact remains that we all are hurting, you and Tia more than because of your preconceived notions that I would desert you and the girls over something so petty. But.'' He paused.

''You've just shown me a bigger picture: that you and Celestia are no different than anypony else: you have fears, but as Twilight told me: it's those fears who make you who you are, cause even I have them.'' He admitted.

''R-Really?''

''Yea, I'm afraid of a lot of things and I would admit them openly, but the one thing that takes precedence over all is you girls. I'd do anything, even lay down my life if it meant you girls would be safe so of course I would never leave over something so silly.'' He smiled.

''Oh, Jamir.'' Luna embraced her mate.

''Hahahaha!'' A familiar voice cut through the air with the clatter of spears. ''I see the mighty princess is not all she is cracked up to be! And neither are these guards!''

''Huh?'' Twilight looked over. The sight of two cloaked ponies put everyone on edge.

''Is that?'' Spike asked.

''Do you think?...''Kanaranx moved forward.

''If I think who it is, then we may have a problem.'' Jamir stood up. Stopping a few feet away from him, the figure took off the hood to reveal Azure's face laced with a grim smile and spoke with bitterness.

''I see you're well.''

The human backpedaled before realizing:

''Azure Light and Wind Breaker...just who I wanted to see. Then again, the saying goes: lay down with a mutt and get up with a big-ass flea.'' He growled.

''Please, save your threats as they will not do you any good here as I hold all the cards as you seem to have forgotten about.''

Jamir unsheathed his katana and swung it around with expert precision, stopping close as the tip barely contained Azure's snout.

''Were it up to me, I would end you here and now, but I have better things to do instead of killing a bug.'' He emphasized his point by cocking the gun portion of his blade, putting all ears to the human and unicorn. Instead of a fearful response like he had hoped Azure only did the opposite and chuckled her guts out.

''That is where I would beg to differ.'' She played the human's bluff.

''No, don't do it!'' Twilight pleaded.

''She's not worth it!''

''Yea, come on sug, just walk away!'' Aj and Rainbow tried their best to hold Jamir back which was working for the most part as he barely made any effort to move, just have his sword in that same place on the unicorn's snout. He almost considered putting the weapon away until one thing happened that prompted him to think different.

''And by the way: I had sent for this strange object some time ago to see all the fuss about it, but now all I see is a piece of folded, colorful parchment with the looks of Jayponese characters on them. What a disgrace.'' She conjured a fire and...incinerated the charm that Jamir made for Yasu's statue to ash in front his eyes.

''Ha! Where's that steely resolve you easily maintained?Like that time in the Everfree or when you fought my subordinates, or even when you had to fight your own kind, one who you considered a brother?! Huh? I'M WAITING FOR AN ANSWER!''

Sound came to Jamir's mind: not just any sound, oh no. This was the sound of a mind being blown, the screams of murder right in his very core: he felt the need for retribution. Gripping the handle with so much raw force and splayed his emotions in all directions that he failed to notice the darkness spreading at exponential rate, covering his entire forearms and working up the neck, his breathing picked up as the unicor kept laughing her brains out, not noticing Kanaranx and Radiance closing the gap along with Rainbow and Applejack, preparing to strike while Spike stayed a few feet behind the human with Twilight and Princess Luna.As the lord and lady watched on with curiosity, neither said a word as the very nature could of this skirmish could be felt like a slap to the face.

Then after calming down for a quick moment, a pin could be dropped and all could hear it despite the distant sound of rampaging violence outside, but instead a tear fell to the floor, all eyes being on the human as he slowly shook not in pain, but sadness.

''Jamir/My love!'' Luna and Twilight hugged the fallen human on the floor, staring down at his reflection, his sword at his side.

''What's the matter? Are you okay?'' Twi shook the motionless Jamir.

''Love, speak to us please!'' Luna begged, resting her head on his.

''I'm...gonna kill that bitch...''He whispered from the confines of his mind.

''What was that?'' Azure teased. ''Speak up boy, how do you think you'll be able to pleasure these mares if you don't speak up?'' She questioned.

''Uh, Azure...I think we may want to-

''Dieeeeeeeeeeee!'' Jamir looked up with tears in his eyes, he brushed off Luna and Twilight and charged forward with his sword. ''Die!!!'' He high jumped and brought his sword down only to be repelled by a magic wave that forced everyone back. Rolling with the momentum, he steadied his gravity and began to lose himself in rage.

''Kanaranx, Spike, Radiance: burn em'!'' He commanded.

''Don't you think we should-

''Quiet! Don't talk back to me: just do it now!''He slammed his palm to the floor and forced a layer of the floor to force her into the air, but only did so much as she suddenly displayed a new version of magical prowess by remaining in the air. A trio of yellow, green, and blue zoomed right the unicorn and stuck a mid-air barrier.

''What?! How are you doing that?'' Jamir wondered.

''Air and gravity manipulation: not that you would know about that.'' She aimed her horn down and fired a soundwave that thrummed into the floor. Bringing his wings out to combat her in the air, he took off only to find he could on get a few inches off the ground to only get slammed back down.

''Hey...what the hell?'' He struggled.

''What is this stuff?'' Rainbow fluttered her wings to no avail.

''Let us out!'' Applejack shouted.

''Ha, no. I would think it to be best that you all watch this first hoof.'' She air trotted over to the throne.

''Guards!'' Lord Tamulus ordered.

''Sir!'' A squad of four dragons swarmed in, breathing waves of fire to only have it dissipate and the guards pushed back.

''Stay away cretin!'' Lady Desane backed away, only to hit the wall as Azure seemed to focus on her.

''Sister!'' Tamulus flapped his mighty wings hoping to cut Azure. Dodging a narrow claw strike, Azure suspended the dragon king in midair by his throat.

''You of are no importance to me, fool. However you- She did the same to Desane. - ''Can and will prove useful to me.'' She got down to ground level and smirked.

''Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!!'' The sound of a blade cutting through flesh halted all possible conversations from continuing except Azure's.

''Ya know, funny little piece of history and science about dragons: they have two of every organ but the females with one one sex organ. So I just proved and did a little known fact of dragon physiology: rip out one of their hearts and it will still beat for a few years at most. But, dragon hearts don't'' - Azure sealed up the massive cut down Desane's midsection- ''Can never be put back as any remaining tendons and ligaments would be used to support the backup heart.'' Dropping them to the floor, Tamulus rushed over to check on his sister.

''You monster!'' Luna shouted.

During all this, Jamir tried and tried to break free but the growing rage in his heart made it only harder as he thrashed around.

''And as for you.'' Azure walked past everyone else and bent down to the human's level. ''What to do with you?'' Calming down for a second, his head faced the ground.

''Look at me!'' She shouted right in his face. Doing just that prompted a million things at once, the most sticking out the most being the unicorn's lips contacting Jamir's in a kiss.

A gasp from Twilight, Rainbow, Applejack, Spike, and a very primal growl from Luna certainly did something.

''Oh god, I think i'm gonna be sick.'' Jamir held the urge to throw up for the time being. Not only did her long tongue probe his mouth, it wormed its way halfway down his throat to the point where he almost hurled up his lunch. Trying his best to fight back, the kiss soon ended.

''Mmm, you taste...different. Too bad: if you had joined me, maybe I would not have to do this to you.'' She held a serrated knife close to her.

''Do...what?'' He asked.

Ten seconds passed by as they looked into one another's eyes: Jamir's red ones portraying confusion, rage, and darkness whilst Azure's purple ones had playfulness but also seriousness as well.

''No.'' She trotted off. ''I won't kill you here, that would be boring: you may wish to save your strength for the main event.'' She snickered.

''Whatever your plans may be: know that as long as blood flow through my veins...I will stop you.'' Jamir's voice held determination.

''Good luck with that.'' Azure summoned her magic and formed a rune circle underneath her and Wind Breaker who looked on with shock. Taking one last look, her eyes suddenly dilated as the circle brightened and a gust of wind picked up.

''This is your only warning: come after me and I will see to it that everything you hold dear is taken away so quickly that your feeble primate mind will be unable to comprehend it.'' A flash of light began to fill the room.

''Azure Light!''Princess Luna managed to utilize her magic for a concussive sound blast that missed the target but blasted a window to smithereens. Finding the ability to move again, Jamir tried to move forward, but he exuded more force than needed and resulted in 3/4 of his body being covered with darkness.

''Jamir!'' Everyone rushed to his side.

''Princess Luna: is there any way to stop this?''Twilight panicked.

''A-Aye: there is only one way: complete the ritual.'' Luna said.

''How is that supposed to be done?'' Spike worried for his mentor.

''L-Love, do you...recall what we did f-following your return from the G-Griffon Kingdom? We must do it again, but differently.'' She struggled. That statement got everyone except Radiance, Spike and Kanaranx to blush for a moment though the former was confused while the the latters groaned.

''What? Did something happen?'' Kanaranx whispered in his ear to provide some clarity.

''...''

''Oh.'' He realized. ''Oh.''

''Hurry along, we must get back to Canterlot at once: my sister will explain everything else there.''

''Wait, what about us?'' Rainbow asked.

''I can take care of that: tran-dimensional multi-movement teleportation is something I have dabbled in.''Twilight stated matter-of-factly.

''Huh?'' The initial question came.

''Ugh, it means I can teleport Jamir and Princess Luna to Canterlot and us to Ponyville at more or less the same time.''

''Well, let's do it then: these two aren't looking so hot.'' Kanaranx pointed out.

With that, Twilight's horn flickered to life like a candlelight, the tip sparking while the base was covered with her magenta aura and the groove lines swirled all colors of the rainbow. A sound akin to a short whistle sounded as everyone was encompassed in her magic and teleported away with a POOF! leaving Radiance to tend to and calm down the frantic lord and lady.

An array of colors came to the human's eyes as a vortex of swirling and pulsing light flew past them like light speed. For a quick millisecond, he could see Rainbow, Spike Applejack, Kanaranx, and Twilight out of the corner of his eye disappear as he and Luna had only a few seconds as an image of Canterlot was at the end of the spectrum. Barely recovering from what happened, he heard Luna growl something fierce.

''Oh, great I know that look.'' He thought.

''Luna?'' He pryed.

''What?'' She responded through barred teeth.

''It's going to hurt even more this time around isn't it?''

''Yep.''

''I figured as much, figured as much.'' Jamir groaned at the upcoming pleasure, painful, but kinky sex that was sure to be unlike anything he's ever experienced.

The Ritual

Celestia's Bedroom:

The ticking of an old grandfather clock is beginning to unnerve me as Tia is going around the room setting up sound and reinforcement barriers while Lulu just finished removing the last of the furniture save for the bed and special order mirror facing the bed. Looking into it, my boredom's being occupied with me just twirling my hair. Here am I sitting on the bed large enough to fit 4 people comfortably and have enough room for a dog, in my blue striped boxers instructed not to move from my spot until i'm given the go ahead. My only thought at this: why the dead silence?

''Now that's taken care of-'' Luna whisked away the end table. ''We can begin.''

''Begin what exactly?'' My question came.

''To complete the ritual or else all of Equestria could be in peril.'' Celestia took off her regalia, Luna doing the same. Peril? How can something so silly be true, but this is, well Equestria so this could be worth hearing out if anything.

''W-What r-ritual?'' I choked on my words from this stupid darkness or whatever the hell it is causing me pain. Taking a deep breath and locking eyes with me Celestia spoke first.

''Before we took up the great responsibility of being princesses, our father Era and our mother Solaris lead Equestria with compassion and kindness. They were the prime example of leadership, gracefulness, and honor.''

Nice and informative but how does this tie into-

''Also.'' Luna interrupted. ''Their love for one another reached paramount levels and constantly was tested time after time. But before they could fully be connected with one another: it happened. The darkness of an Alicorn's heart of not being synced with their significant other takes a toll on the body as once realized between the two the life force, soul, very being and heart becomes that of both parties. It was foretold, more or less suggested by our parents that a great power unlike any other will be born from the one who my sister and I truly connect with. In short, one cannot survive without the other.'' Her face held seriousness.

So this is sorta like yin and yang, eh? But even though they explained their reasons to me, I would think we held a deeper connection to share anything with each other, but i'd probably do the same if in their place. All of which is moot at this point, but understandable.

''As a result of that, many things occurred that we bore witness to as children: increased mood swings, a loss in appetite, emotions spiked randomly only to be preludes to the worst portion that claimed our parent's lives. The combination of negative feelings, magical essence along with the time made manifest to a physical form that consumes the heart, mutating from the inside out. What we are experiencing is merely a fraction of the sheer devastation to befall us if we do not complete the process.'' Celestia stepped back from the foot of the bed.

''But do what exactly? There's one thing you're not telling me.'' My patience's wearing thin at this point.

They both looked to each other with slight hesitation before coming clean.

''We seem to have run into a snag: in order for everything to go swimmingly a type of catalyst is needed for us to conjure up the seal that will take care of everything, yet it has been misplaced.'' Luna blushed from what little I could tell of her face due to the darkness slowly spreading.

''And this catalyst is?'' I had an urge to know, but fate tells me I may slightly regret that question.

''A pair of coins: a golden coin embroidered with my cutie mark surrounded by a ring of stars whilst Luna's is blue with her cutie mark surrounded by one of crescent moons.''

...Knew it, just had a feeling about it, maybe that charlatan Discord had a hand in this. Or paw, whatever the fuck he calls those. Making a mental note to slap myself once this ends, I focused my magic on the one place I thought to put those blasted coins after I came to Ponyville: the dresser in my room.

''Do you happen to mean''- POOF! -''these coins, by any chance?'' I held them up for them to see. Worming them out of my hands and to their eyes, I figured I done at least one thing right tonight besides letting that bitch get away and burn the protection charm I made for Yasu. I swear by all the power in the 9 realms that she will pay for her actions: a long and painful death awaits her...perhaps frying her body to nice, golden crisp over a low flame for a long period or have an entire room full of praying mantises make a meal of her, or even...

''What?''

''We know what you're thinking and I must say: I disapprove.'' Tia sounded so upset.

Wait, but...

''I feel more or less the same way: death is not the answer here. Though we possessed the urge to do away with her that was merely the thought of that mare touching our mate angered me so profusely.'' Luna held sympathy with her sister.

''How would you two know? You weren't there when she put me, Frank, Spike, Vaillant, Iron and Xenia in jail. She...said something to me back then I just can't shake off. I trusted her and she went and took time away from my family that can never be recovered and I intend to make her pay, one way or the other.'' I clenched my fists.

''Too bad you had to be kiss ups to Celestia and Luna, you would have made a fine mate.''

''Please, love we urge you to reconsider your quest for vengeance. Yes, Azure Light not only assaulted you, but also other Equestrians and will be charged on counts of assisted kidnapping, excessive force, conspiring against the princesses and reckless endangerment are just but a few of the consequences she will in due time, but-'' Luna rested her head against my chest. -''can wait until we finish our business here.''

''So now what?'' I scratched my head.

''Simple: now that we have we n-need: we can begin the ritual. Luna?''

''Right. Once we do this: none of us are permitted to leave the room until the ritual is complete.''

Touching both, magic infused horns to the ground, various lines began to form in a pattern all around the room, symbols of the zodiac like Pisces, Aries, Gemini, my all time favorite and birth sign: Sagittarius glowed in a dim purple light along with the 4 elements, Earth, Wind, Fire, and Water appeared underneath as a second layer. As if that was not enough, the magic in the room just raised considerably as Celestia and Luna's bodies began to feel more of the effects as more of the darkness spread throughout our bodies. After struggling for a few minutes, everything died down.

''You okay?''

Nodding, they walked back over and climbed onto the bed.

''Yes, we are fine, we just need you to just relax love...we have this under control.'' Luna mounted my chest and whispered.

''Just let us take care of you.'' Tia began to rub her slipper-less hoof over my crotch.

''Wait, that's-'' Mmph! Luna cut me off with a passionate kiss.

Eh, just gotta roll with the punches.

Holding her closer, I delved deeper into the kiss, our tongues coming alive to slither and squelch the confines of each other's mouths. Hearing Tia get fully engrossed in stimulating me, she planted small kisses down my stomach, bringing her head level to raging pride.

''My, my...'' Tia cooed. ''You got excited just from this? Looks like this needs to be punished.'' She circled her hoof over the damp spot protruding from my tip.

''Mmmph!'' I moaned deeper into the kiss. Running my hands down all her luscious curves, I began to buck my hips from the slight teasing. Then a sudden coolness spread over my lower region as Tia let my rod free. Giggling, she took my sack in her mouth while her forehoof gently stroked my shaft.

''Mmmph!'' Breaking away from our embrace, Luna joined her sister.

''What is this? Are you that lustful over us?'' Luna smirked at me.

''U-Uh...'' I struggled to find the right words.

''Because we are.'' She bluntly stated. ''Now prepare yourself.'' Her warm cavern engulfed my shaft as she lathered my tip with her spit and sucked.

''Ahh, good girls.'' I patted their heads. Doing that made them vibrate onto me more which brought me even closer. Playing with one and licking the other, Tia held nothing back while Luna deep-throated my dick, prompting me to thrust into her mouth at a rapid pace. Feeling her tongue come out and rub underneath my shaft, my movements increased as my crotch constantly hit her muzzle as she used her hoof to stimulate herself.

''Shoot, I-I might not last much-'' Crap!

Unloading my load down her throat, Luna's muscles grasped and milked my seed as Tia pulled hard on my sack. Swallowing what didn't pool out, I fell back on the bed and caught my breath.

''Sorry about that.'' I chuckled.

''Worry not, besides we-'' She licked a strand of cum off her lip- ''enjoy this primal side of you.'' She relished the feeling. Resting her back down onto the bed in a suggestive manner, she blushed.

''I want you to mount me...'' Her face got even redder. Stroking myself to stay erect, I decided to tease her.

''Apologies, didn't quite understand you-'' I rubbed my tip on her wet folds. -''care to repeat that?''

''Somepony's a tease.'' Celestia rubbed over my body. Luna pouted at the statement, but withheld a moan as I prodded her insides.

''Care to say again?''

Gaining some newfound confidence, her eyes glistened as she drew quick breaths.

''Please, love...ravage me: pound my brains out, whatever you wish...make love to me.''

With pleasure.

Using my hand to sneak a taste of her nectar, I pushed forward, feeling Luna's walls clamp down on my tip as I held her hindlegs up and hilted myself in a matter of seconds.

''C-Crap. Forgot how much you like to squeeze down on me.''

''Is my marehood too much for you?'' She rubbed my chest with a hoof.

Oh, two can play at that game my naughty little mare.

''Hey, Tia: could you stand back a bit? It's time to give Luna a crash course.'' I winked. Nodding, she stepped back and took a seat next to us, watching with a curious look.

''What does that-

''Ohh!!'' Luna gasped as I pounded her center along with her clit. Holding nothing back, I thrusted back and forth, not giving her a second to relax. Sweat poured down our bodies as Luna folded her hind legs, forcing me deeper inside. Moaning, groaning, plus the occasional shout of my name amplified became music to my ears.

''Yes, yes, yes! Keep thrusting please!''

Wait...I got a better idea. Can't wait to see how she'll get a kick out of this.

In the midst of voicing her pleasure, I took hold of her horn, stopping her momentarily.

''Wha-

''Use some magic.'' I commanded. Nodding, she sparked her horn to life having everything but my hand encased in her magic.

''Are you?...'' Tia asked.

''Yep.'' I simply replied.

Stroking her horn got just the reaction I'd had hoped for: a high-pitched shout. The look of ecstasy on her face brought a smile to mine: tongue hanging out her mouth, eyes rolling to the point where it might hurt, streams of hot breath and mane stuck to her face pushed me over the edge.

''Intriguing: the time is almost upon you Luna: don't waste it.'' Tia warned. The moment she said that, Luna's eyes focused, breathing went down to a decent pace and moved in for a quick kiss, pulling away the next thing that happened almost unnerved me: two of her front teeth are growing almost like's a bat's.

Time for what exactly though?

''I'm cumming!'' Is what I would have been able to say if her teeth didn't bore into me and pierce a hole through the right side of my neck. I'm too shocked to do anything at this point as I emptied my seed inside her: just feel the equivalent of two needles dig into a major vein. Pain was the very first reaction but also the sudden urge to vacate my stomach as I can literally feel the blood being sucked out. Taking myself out of her, the contents began to spill and pool on the bed as I voiced my pain.

''Tia t-this really hurt~s: why can't yo-''

''Calm yourself love: this is all part of the process.''

''P-Process? What are you...whoa...neat.'' Looking around us, the layers of the circle began to spin in different directions and glow as well did Luna and me.

''What is this?'' The pain numbed down to a hum.

''Tis the bonding portion of the ritual: with this, I have claimed you and you me though-'' She marvelled at the brilliant light surrounding her body and killing off the darkness. Multiple changes occurred to her body that made me gawk in surprise. Her wings unfolded, feathers breezing in a nonexistent wind as the base morphed from blue to white while the tips dulled to slightly silver color. A white, lush color overtook her midnight blue one. Her mane and tail sprung to life almost as if obeying her thoughts to move however she deemed fit. The fangs from before? Still there, though looked wicked sharp. Her body grew a tad taller and more pronounced curves for me to gaze upon, eyes turned a blood red, and her cutie mark changed...to Celestia's?

''Amazing.'' Tia marvelled.

''Well, this-'' ouch. ''is new. Was this the 'power' your parents told you about?''

''It would seem so,-'' But this energy signature seems just like my sister's but-it did work. Look.'' She gestured to the seals that portrayed fire for the first layer, a praying mantis for the second layer, the sun for third, and empty for the fourth. Then a thin magical tether was connected to our hearts, the notion of which certainly made me feel such a way of being connected on a deeper level. But one other thing alarmed me was a glowing depiction of Luna's crescent moon with splotches was engraved on the right side of my chest and around my back, stopping at an imaginary line.

''This is strange indeed: but feels right.''

''I agree.'' Luna's voice echoed in my mind.

Huh?

''This is the result of the of the ritual: our heart, minds, and bodies have become one: do you not feel it? Our heart beating?''

Listening, I felt a heartbeat definitely, but not so much as mine: both of ours beating as one entity. A warm feeling

''I take i-it all is w-well with you two?'' Tia looked to have just come down from a high.

''Yea.'' I nodded. ''So will you be doing the whole 'biting' thing?''

''It is the only way for us to be connected than never before but should not be as as troublesome as with Luna.'' She laid down and spread her glistening folds open for me to look at. Winking at me, I brought my mouth to her center and sucked of her juices out for a few seconds. Breaking away, I kissed her clit that hitched her breath before lining myself up with her.

''You ready?'' Tia looked at me with a blushed, but pouty face.

''What?''

''No foreplay? My handsome stallion.'' She stared deep into my eyes prompting me to do the same, revealing a multitude of hidden emotions.

''Trust me,-" I caressed her soft, white coat. -''there'll be time for that but I figured it wouldn't be an issue to want to connect with my mate A.S.A.P. would it?'

''Of course not,''- Celestia grinded her marehood on my tip. -''By all means, please: fuck me.'' Holding her up by her massive and supple flanks, I inserted myself inside, meeting the warm, almost blistering heat that i have come to love.

''Oh crap, this feels-''

''T-Too good? The feeling is mutual.''

Before I could start, Luna came from behind me and planted celebratory kisses on my back while wrapping her tail around me.

''You may continue.'' Tia bucked her hips forward.

''Awful jumpy aren't we?''

''Makes sense: Alicorns are increasingly needy and possessive of their mate: even more so now than ever so it would be best to see to it that my sister is taken care of.''

Pulling out, Tia quickly shifted from happiness to rage in such short amount of time, Angel Bunny would have crapped himself from the glare.

Note to self: don't do that.

Hoping to not feel the wrath of the Royal Voice, I brought her into a kiss while hilting myself back into her.

''You-mmph!''

Following common sense at this point, I moved back and forth, her slickness making my thrusts more fluid. Giving her cutie marks a thorough rubbing, she moaned deep into the current tongue scuffle we each tried to win. Angling myself to go in deeper, my body shook with every movement, body caked in sweat, and Tia shouting my name as we lost ourselves in the pleasure.

''Tia, I'm gonna-''

''Go ahead, do it inside!''

Grunting, I was met with a pinprick of fangs towards the left side of my neck as Tia held close in our embrace, the glowing of our bodies and the seals telling me of another occurrence. The seal landed on wind, owl, and the moon. As with Luna, Tia's coat began to shift colors, dulling down to gray, then silver, then black and than to deep blue. Her fangs grew more pointy, wings followed the same color scheme with the tips as her body grew slimmer and cutie mark and formed into Luna's. Pulling out, the results of our love spread out on the bedsheets as I laid down and caught my breath.

''So...that was a thing.'' I looked to either side of me with Tia being on the left, Lulu on the right.

''Yes, the ritual is finally complete and we have ridded ourselves of this lingering feeling in our hearts: now I see what mother said by ''You will know when the answer is right in front of you.'' Who would have thought in a hundred years that the one we sought out -Celestia rubbed our noses together- would be you?''

''Same here: I always thought myself to just be one of those lonely bachelors with little to no friends...and I believed that for a moment. But now I know that things are not what they seem as I don't even have to feel the immense emotions of possessives from you two to say that that will be a huge roadblock to break down.'' I chuckled.

''But of course.'' Luna adopted a saucy smile. ''My sister and I claimed you, made you our human, our mate and besides the element bearers: no other mare can and will have you just as we are yours: now and forever.''

Whoa, that's a little bit to take in, but the way they're clutching onto me seems a tad more possessive and instinful than with love, though that makes sense. But this kind of cuddling is more intended to keep me down as I tried to get up. Not say that i'm not a little contemplative on the word: claimed, but I trust Celestia and Luna with all my heart and would not want to be without them or the girls.

''Now that we have completed our business, we can really indulge ourselves with our mate.'' Tia licked my ear.

''Don't suppose there's get out of jail free card or am I bound here?''

The look in their eyes along with the summoning of some rope told me otherwise.

''Shit.'' I cursed myself. ''At least ease up on the rope this time, okay?''

Canterlot Wedding Part 1

Ponyville, Fluttershy's meadow, Jamir's Pov:

A week passed since the ritual was completed and once again: I have soreness issues, but that is irrelevant right now as I basked in the sunlight with Twilight's head in my lap as I stroked her mane and belly as everypony were conversating about random topics. Laying my head down on the soft grass, I sighed and enjoyed the peace and quiet of this past week. Just small things like helping few of the townsfolk out, making some deliveries, and getting back into the groove of my daily life is a gift I take not lightly.

''Ahh, this is just a beautiful day, isn't it?'' Rarity asked.

''Yep, gotta love sipping ice-cold lemonade on a hot day.'' Frank sounded from the tree above.

''Meh, I prefer the cold to this: but too lazy to get up.'' Valiant finally was able to relax after and hour of coaxing him to chill for one day. Biting into my apple, I waited patiently for Spike to get back with my special order of oatmeal raisin cookies. Hey, he was heading towards Sugarcube Corner, so I slipped him a few bits to get what he wanted while he gets my order, but it's been about an hour since he left and it only take 25 minutes to head from the bakery from where we are now.

''Where did that dragon scamper off to?'' I sighed.

''Gotta keep going, gotta keep going!''**

''Maybe he got lost or something.'' Kanaranx filed his claws.

''*Hurry, hurry, hurry!''*

''Maybe he's *gulp* playing his stomach like a bongo again.'' Rainbow swallowed her sandwich.

''Come on!''**

''Who knows, Spike does have a tendency to-

''Twi!-light! I have...hoo. Hold on, let me...catch my breath.'' Spike hopped in front of us. ''Here's...your cookies, Jamir.'' He passed me a brown basket. Opening it up, at least 30 cookies had to be there.

''Thanks.'' I bit into one.

''This is for you.'' He handed Twi a letter.

''Hmm, let's see what this is all about:

*Dear Twilight, I am sure you are as excited as I am about the upcoming wedding in Canterlot. ''Wedding?'' She looked to us.*

Wedding?

''Keep reading. This sounds interesting.'' Frank urged.

I will be presiding over the ceremony, but would very much like you and your friends to help with the preparations for this wonderful occasion. Fluttershy, I would like you and your songbird choir to provide the music.

''Oh goodness, what an honor!'' She grew excited.

*Pinkie Pie, I can think of no one more qualified than you to host the reception.*

''Alright! This is gonna be so amazing!''

*Applejack, you will be in charge of the catering for the reception.*

''Ah'd be honored.''

Rainbow Dash-

''Ugh, yawn.''

I would very much appreciate it if you could perform a sonic rainboom as the bride and groom complete their I do's

''Alright! Now we got something going!''

Rarity, you will be responsible for designing the dresses for the bride and her bridesmaids. ''

''Princess Celestia wants me to–laiigh - for a Canterlot wedding I, ah, ooh, oooh!''

''Sounds like a match-made in heaven for whoever's getting hitched, am I right?'' Frank jumped down and offered his hand a high five which I accepted.

*Frank, as you seem to be quite a colorful character with your bright and swanky attitude that I would like to appoint you as the bride's personal guard and escort around Canterlot as well as invite Ms. Lavender Splash and her Daughter Rose as well as our intrepid allies of the Dragon, Griffon, and Zebra factions as guests.*

''Well, at least Celestia knows when to play the right cards, guard duty duty eh? Nice.''

I would also call upon for Vaillant Barrier and Iron Hammer to temporarily called back into service as to better reinforce protection for this event.

''Us?'' Iron grew curious.

''Heh, seems like a big deal if they're calling us back in: whaddya think?'' Vaillant wondered.

''I'm in.''

And as for you, Twilight, you and Jamir will be playing the most important role of all: Making sure that everything goes as planned. See you all very soon. Yours, Princess Celestia.

''But... I don't understand. Who's getting married?''

''Oh.'' Spike deadpanned. ''I was supposed to give you this first.'' He brought out a second scroll. Opening this one, maybe we can find out just who is the lucky-

Princess Celestia cordially invites you to the wedding of Princess Mi Amore Cadenza and...

''My brother?!''

''Brother?!'' We repeated.

This calls for a spit take, if only I had some water. Dang.

''Your brother's getting married?''- Applejack came over and patted Twi on the shoulder. - ''Congratulations, Twilight! That's great news!''

Yeah, great news''. - she got up and began pacing.- ''That I just got from a wedding invitation! Not from my brother, but from a piece of paper! Thanks a lot, Shining Armor. I mean, really, he couldn't tell me personally?''- she held a sandwich which I assumed was to mimic her brother- ''Hey, Twilight, just thought you should know I'm making a really big decision that changes everything. Oh, never mind, you'll hear about it when you get the invitation.'' ''Princess Mi Amore Cadenza? Who in the hoof is that?!''

''I don't know: but are you okay? You seem a little-

''Rage happy?'' Rainbow chipped in.

''Sorry, it's just that Shining Armor and I have always been so close. He's my B.B.B.F.F!''

''Huh?'' Everyone wondered.

''Big Brother Best Friend Forever?''

''Oh.''

''Before I came here and learned the importance of friendship, Shining Armor was the only pony I ever really accepted as a friend.''

Youtube Video

Well, that certainly gave me some insight, though I wonder for a few things.

''So why all the worry: this Shining Armour sounds like an okay guy to me: so why all this?'' I took a look at the letter.

''He is pretty special. I mean, they don't let just anypony be captain of the Royal Guard.''

''Captain?'' Iron and Vaillant asked.

''So let me get this straight,'' - Rarity stopped Twilight. -''we are not only helping out with the wedding of a princess, but the captain of the Royal Guard?''

''Suppose so.''

''Ooh, ooh, oooh!''

''Uh-oh: easy there.'' Frank caught Rarity.

So, it looks like we're heading to Canterlot once again, this should be interesting.

Some time later, Ponyville express to Canterlot:

Hearing the clanking of the tracks with the train whistle blaring became background noise as I listened in on everyone's thoughts about their respective duties...but Twilight's mind looked to be going a million miles in every direction as she stared out the window. Going over and resting a hand on her forehead, she broke out of her trance and laid her purple eyes full of worry to mine.

''Why the long face, sugarcube?''

''It's just.'' - She slumped in her seat. -'' I'm just thinking about Shining Armor. Ever since I moved to Ponyville, we've been seeing each other less and less. And now that he's starting a new family with this "Princess Mi Amore Ca-whatshername", we'll probably never see each other.'' She leaned into me.

''Come on, now.'' -Aj waved a hoof dismissively. - ''You're his sister. He'll always make time for you.''

''Couldn't seem to make time to tell me he was getting married.'' She pouted.

''Twi.''- I brought her into a hug. -''Remember how I told you i'd do anything for you girls?''

''Mmm-hmm.'' She mumbled from my chest.

''Then you should take that same level of trust and belief that your brother would put that same amount into seeing you: regardless of what or when, there should always be time for family: something I barely had.''

''Really?''

''Yep.'' I whispered. ''My mother was always busy with her job, father is who knows where, brother and sister are grown up and either choose not to see me or just forgets and other relatives? More or less the same, save for my grandmother whom I will always cherish and respect. So trust in me when I say that your brother hopefully means well by not telling upfront, but I guess we'll find out when we-

''We're here!'' Pinkie shouted.

Looking out the window, once again the breathtaking view of Canterlot always fills me with a sense of astonishment: but the massive magenta sphere surrounding the city suggested otherwise as we descended down the tracks to the platform. How are we gonna pass through that, it looks pretty thick and-

''Sloop!'' A hole formed big enough for us to proceed through, a slight chill going down my spine as the magic physically washed over me as I shook it off. At this point, I realized just how important this really must be if they go to these extremes. Massive squadrons of Royal Guards clad in golden Armour and spears surrounded us as the train screeched to a stop. Opening the door, we exited out to view the massive barrier that encompassed all Canterlot, giving the illusion of a planet that appeared to stretch for miles. The second we all came out on the platform, 12 guards lined up, 6 either side of us with metal spears at the ready.

''Whoa, talk about tight security.'' Rainbow joked.

''It is a wedding, Rainbow Dash: these things do tend to bring out the more curious of ponies.'' Rarity scoffed.

''Doesn't this,'' - Frank nudged me. -''remind you of?-

''Back in 9th grade when the First Lady came to Wayne State to speak? Protection everywhere, even the bomb squad.'' I said back.

The clatter of shoes against the platform floor made me turn my head as a familiar face walked through the middle. Taking off his helmet, his stone-cold grey mane has gotten rather long and his once klutzy demeanor changed drastically. His dark brown eyes portrayed the look of remembrance as I embraced him in a hug.

''Stone Wall, how long has it been, you old dog?'' I tapped his Armour for emphasis.

''Stone, my bro: how's life been?'' Frank shook his hoof.

''Too long, too long: and do I have some news for you.'' He smiled. ''Guess who got a promotion and personally recommended by Princess Luna herself to become a personal guard and some time off to catch up?''

''So it finally: but when was this and who is it?''

''For Fancy Pants: turns out he's going to be heading to Reighsia for some important business next month with the emperor and asked that I accompany him! I'm moving up in the world!'' He exclaimed.

''Nice, nice: so are you here to escort us?''

''Oh, yes.'' He bowed. ''Princess Celestia asked that I take you guys to the Captain as he wishes to see his sister and 'the one whom taken her heart' as you could be of help to him and get everypony settled in. If you'll follow me.'' He turned to take us in the city.

Wonder what he meant by that.

''Well let's go.'' -Applejack trotted forward. -''you've got a big brother to congratulate.''

''Yeah. Congratulate.'' Her ears dropped. - ''And then give him a piece of my mind.'' She hustled past two guards at the entrance who looked a little shaken up at her face.

Proceeding after, the normally bumbly city with ponies walking by, doing business, chatting, or being snobs were cut down at bit as per every few buildings: guards stood at every corner, the same stoic look upon their faces as we went by. Turning down the cobblestone pathway, my question came in the form of a statement via Frank

''Damn, with all these guards, you'd think Canterlot's going to war-'' Oomph!'' Lavender socked him in the gut.

''Don't say that!'' She scolded. ''Maybe this Cadenza just wants to make sure that all goes well and not screw anything up.'' Lavender said.

Something I noticed about her was how she began to pick up certain traits that my friend here would normally exude, but the heart wants what the heart wants and those two seem made for one another. With that, Stone Wall escorted everyone else to the castle to get situated as he took me and Twi to see the Captain. We were walking for a few minutes when he spoke up.

''Actually.'' Stone's face darkened. ''She's not too far off the mark. I don't have all the details, but it seems some sort of threat has been made against Canterlot which is why you see the abnormal increase of guards: Captain Armour should have more details than me, but i've only heard about this through the grape vine: some even say that this is all part of a crazy unicorn's scheme to get revenge on somepony who wronged her, but what can you do? These are rumors.'' He put his helmet back on. A threat? During a wedding? Great, even more for the hotplate, but I guess-

''I've got something to say to you, mister.'' Twilight stormed ahead as we came to the entrance to the castle and saw a slight increase of guards towards the front, some even standing close to Yasu's statue of whom I beamed my eyes downward as we approached the stairs. Walking up, a trio of pegasus guards just left after being commanded by a unicorn with a alabaster coat, blue eyes and a two tone blue and sky blue mane and tail adorning a special type of outfit, laden with purple and gold with a symbol that resembled Twilight's cutie mark as a chest insignia.

''Twily! Ah, I've missed, you, kid. How was the train ride? I-'' He paused and looked at Twilight's bulging belly.

''You're pregnant?!'' He backpedaled. ''By who? How come you didn't tell me you let some bucking stallion defile you like that? Where is he so I can-

''I didn't tell you because one: It was so sudden and even I didn't know about it and two: I knew you would act like this: trust me, he's not who you think he-

''Who is he?''

At this point, I decided to speak up from my place.

''That.'' I stepped forward. - ''would be me.'' Craning his head towards, me Shining adopted a look of confusion with slight rage. Walking up to me, I did the same as we stared each other down, Shining staring up at me as I offered my hand in a friendly gesture.

''So you're the guy? Interesting.'' He circled around me. ''You seem to be in top shape, has a pretty powerful aura and must have a real set to get my sister pregnant and not inform me or expect this!'' He hurled his forehoof at me which I dodged and pounded his center with a low kick that pushed him back. Hearing clattering, the guards around me readied their spears.

''No! Stand down: this is not a fight, just testing him.'' He rushed at me again. Stepping to the side, I tripped him and brought magic into my hands and held his neck in place. Snapping my fingers, a long, rectangular case fell into my left hand and unfurled to reveal my 6ft long scythe that I easily held in one hand and leveled the tip of my blade to his nose as the other cocked the hammer.

''No!'' Twi yelled, the rest being shocked at my actions.

''Nice try: but I wasn't born yesterday. And don't worry: I'm not gonna do that.'' - I relinquished my hold on him and set my blade to the ground.

''Whoa, you- Cough! - know what you're doing: sorry for charging at you, I just needed to make sure that you're on top of your game if you are to be a father. I'm Shining Armour.'' He got up and offered his hoof that I shook.

''Jamir. I almost thought for a second you disapproved.''

''I do.'' He deadpanned. ''But...I'm willing to give you a chance to change my mind.''

Huh.

That was a little unexpected, but at that he really didn't want to- oh crap. Twilight's giving me a mean look that I interpreted as a stern talking to.

''Anyway.'' - Twi cleared her throat. - ''How dare you not tell me in person that you were getting married! I'm your sister, for pony's sake!''

''It's not my fault! Princess Celestia has requested a major increase in security. Didn't you see all the guards at the train station?''

''We sure noticed.'' Frank piped up.

''Yeah, there's a big wedding coming up. Maybe you heard about it?'' Twi waved her hooves all around.

''It has nothing to do with the wedding.'' - He looked to the skies. - ''A threat has been made against Canterlot. We don't know who's responsible for it, but Princess Celestia asked that I help provide additional protection. This, you all need to see.'' He stepped back and fired his horn to the sky. Contacting the barrier, it solidified and built a layer upon the existing one. Holding his head after gaining a headache, he spoke.

''The burden of keeping Canterlot safe and secure rests squarely on my shoulders. Staying focused on the task at hand has been... my top priority. You do understand that, don't you?''

''Okay, okay, I get it. You've got a really important job protecting all of Canterlot with a force field only you can conjure up. But still... how could you not tell me about something as big as your wedding?'' - She shed a few tears. - '' Am I not that important to you any more?''

Hugging her, Shining spoke from the heart as he looked to the distance.

''Hey. You're my little sister. Of course you're important to me. But I'd understand if you didn't want to be my best mare now.''

''I'd be honored!'' - She bowed. - ''But I'm still pretty ticked you're marrying somepony I don't even know! When did you even meet this "Princess Mi Amore Cadenza?''

''Twilight, Princess Mi Amore Cadenza is Cadence, your old foalsitter.''

If her smile could be any bigger, Pinkie Pie might have a rival.

''Cadance? As in the Cadance? As in the greatest foalsitter in all the history of foalsitters?!''

''You tell me, she **was your foalsitter.'' He chuckled.**

''So I take she's like a sister to you then?''

''Ohmygoshohmygosh! Cadance is only the most amazing pony ever! She's beautiful, she's caring, she's kind...'' She reminisced.

''How many unicorns can just spread love wherever they go? I only know of one! And you're marrying her!'' She hopped around in a sing-song voice. - ''You're marrying Cadance! You're marrying Cadance!''

As I chuckled about how she acted, I suddenly felt an immense amount of pressurized magic in such a close proximity to me. Before I could turn around, a voice cut through the air.

''I hope I'm not interrupting anything important.'' A girlish voice chided. To my was an alicorn with a pink coat with a three tone purple, pink and white color scheme weaved in a wavy mane and tail, encompassed in regalia with a cutie mark of a heart with a rather smug look on her face.

''Cadence!'' Twilight gasped.

''Sunshine, sunshine, ladybugs awake! Clap your hooves and do a little shake!'' Twi performed some very odd movements, though one struck me at the end when she raised her tail and showed her rump to me.

Hot.

''Easy there Twi: don't want to startle the baby.''

''What are you doing?'' Cadence look perplexed.

''Huh? Cadence, it's me: Twilight!''

''Uh-huh.'' She sounded uninterested. Paying me no mind, she walked to Shining and nuzzled him.

''I've gotta get back to my station, but Cadance will be checking in with all of you to see how things are going. I think I speak for both of us when I say we couldn't be more excited to have you here. Right, dear?''

''Absolutely.'' She cracked a wicked smile.

''We'll let you get to it.'' They walked off.

''Something seems off: that can't be the Cadence that I know.'' Twilight trotted.

''What makes you think that?'' I said, getting up from my bowing position at the statue and trailing after her.

''I've known Cadence better than anypony else: practically my whole life and not once has she acted like this: she always does the sunshine dance with me. I don't know about you, but there's something not right and I intend to find out.'' She lay a hoof down.

''Not by yourself, you're not: I'm helping you. I know you pretty well hon, and if there's one thing that I know: it's that your intuition is usually never wrong, but spasmodic and often backed up with science so I trust your instincts on this.'' I massaged her neck.

''Ahhh~'' She breathed out. ''Thanks for believing me: but we have to keep this between us: anypony else gets involved and we may have a problem.'' She stood on her hind legs and kissed me.

''Come on.'' - I took point. - ''We should get going.''

Frank's Pov, Cadet's Quarters

Getting fitted for my role as personal escort and guard to the princess came with a lot of perks. First off, I have authority to take drastic measures if need be and then ask for clarification later: simply put: I can lay down the law and restrain, detain, or knock out or attack anyone who threatens the princess and even to a degree if it gets to that point...kill with justifiable cause and reason should the need arise. I was given a schedule of what we needed to get down today and am currently reviewing it in my mind.

''So.'' A voice roused out of my thoughts. ''You ready for guard detail?'' Valiant tossed me my sash.

''More or less: but the clothes...kinda formal.''

''Well, this is what we wear and what you do too.'' Iron sounded from his bunk. To put matters in perspective: I'm wearing a set of white custom tailored gloves that are protected from getting dirty, a pair of black combat boots, gold armour plates around my knees, elbows, and shoulders with a miniature armoured vest that reaches down to the middle of my chest with a long cape worn over a black vest with a white shirt along with a pin of the princesses cutie mark on the top of the pink and gold trimmed sash that is draped over my right side with my new painted version of shock-charge with a red base and green trim on standby mounted my wrists to use the metal portion as a hammer.

Brushing a few long bangs out of my way, I nodded to myself and walked out the door, Valiant and Iron joining me soon afterwards. Walking over to retrieve our standard issue weapons: (they a spear, while me a pair of plain sais.

''You ready?'' Vaillant fired up his horn and teleported us to where the princess is.

POOF!

A small, circular room with various dresses along with decorations, gift baskets and bridesmaids told me this is the right place.

''Princess.'' We bowed.

''Ah guards: I trust you have all you need?'' She inquired.

''Yes.'' We responded.

''Very well.'' She trotted out the door. ''Let us be off...'' Her voice trailed downstairs as we followed her to check on preparations.

Jamir's Pov, Royal Kitchen:

''Mmmph...'' Twilight sounded from my side. After deciding to do this ourselves, she got a little peeved at the way Cadence reacted to her and had this pouty face ever since we got here, so i'm able to do is just pet her mane while she checks off her checklist.

''Cake: taken care of.''

Check.

''Ice sculpture: done.''

Check.

''Best darn bite-size apple fritter you ever tasted?''

Smush!

''Mmm! Check.'' Twilight brightened up. Getting a taste, it reminded me of the classic kind of Apple pie that my grandma used to make for me. Enjoying the taste, the doors to the kitchen opened, everypony bowing at the sight of the princess. Behind her walked in Iron, Valiant, and Frank: all clad with weapons and armour as they stood by the door.

''Hey.'' The trio greeted.

Nodding, I shot them the later gesture as I was busy munching on my cookies.

''Hiya, Princess!'' Aj greeted.

''Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.''

''Hiya, princess Mi Amore Cadenza, you've come to check on the food?''

''I have.''

''Well, here have a taste.''

Holding one of the fritters in her magic, she sampled the treat and gave her thoughts.

''It's...delicious!'' She hesitated.

'' Aw, shucks. Why don't you take a few to go?'' -she handed her a brown bag. - ''I know how you brides can be. So busy, you forget to get a little somethin' in your belly.''

''Oh...well thank you. I'll be sure to savor them: guards, let us be off.'' She departed.

''Yes, princess.'' They remained stoic. Walking ahead of her, she surveyed the area and threw the bag in the trash.

''Did...you see what she...did?'' Twi asked me.

''Yea.'' I whispered. ''Somepony's not a very good host.''

''In any case: this merits investigation: let's go check in with Rarity.'' She brought her list out. During this, a thought came to my head.

Why does feel like one of those soap operas?

''Oh, you should have seen how she acted back there.'' - Twi fumbled with my hair as I sat at the base of the bed. - ''I don't know when she changed, but she changed! "Please, call me Princess Mi Amore Cadenza.'' She imitated her. Hearing to her plight, it really seemed that Twilight's taking this new version of Cadence as bad as a thief would want something worth stealing. But, we can't just interrogate her about her behavior since 1: I know nothing about her and B: solid proof is a must. Rarity, however was more focused on doing a last minute check over on the dresses she designed for the bridesmaids and Cadence when I sensed a familiar aura. And here she-

''Did somepony say my name?'' Her voice honestly sounded like a chalkboard and nails to me, but I sucked it up as she arrived with the guys and three mares: one of which I have come to know under better circumstances. Eyes brightening, Rarity showed her respect and gushed as she expressed her honor for working.

''Your highness! L-Let me just start by saying what an honor it is to play a role in such a m-momentous occasion.'' She chuckled.

''Hey guys how's life being a guard?'' I joked.

''Ugh! So boring! Not once Once! has somepony tried to hurt the princess: and while that's all good, don't get me wrong.'' He waved his hands in a slow down motion. -''I was just expecting a damn challenge, not be dressed up as a literal stiff, though a good looking one at that.'' He snapped his fingers.

''Guard.'' Cadence firmly stated which Frank straightened up.

''Sorry.''

''Uh-huh.'' Her eyes narrowed. Is my dress ready?''

''Yes, of course. Um, I've been working on it ever since I was given the assignment.'' - She put her small, red glasses on. -''and I think you'll be pleased with the results! Mmm!'' She nodded. Taking a quick glance at the dresses, they looked rather good in my opinion: not too frilly, but not too plain.

''I was hoping for something with more beading and a longer train.'' Her demands kept coming.

''And those should be a different color.'' She rejected the bridesmaid's dresses.

''I think they're lovely.'' Twinkleshine commented.

''Me too!'' Minuette smiled.

''I love them.''Lyra said.

''Make them a different color. She demanded.

''Uh, very well princess.''

''Let us be off.'' She turned and left.

''Gee, maybe her name should be "Princess Demandy-pants.'' Twi mumbled.

Passing me a look of confusion as he left, Frank shrugged as we once again had to adjust to something changing.

''Now?'' Twi asked.

''Not yet: I trusted you intuition on this, so now you can trust in mine: we need to get her alone so guys can talk and or sort this out. Remember, we need to think a few steps ahead of her. Don't worry.'' I cooed. - ''we'll and by that I mean you will have your chance soon enough, but try to enjoy today: we are prepping for a wedding after all.''

Time Shift: Night.

Me and Twilight just finished informing the crusaders about their roles along with making sure that all the small details of the wedding as we strolled down the street, taking in the sights of the calm nighttime and grasshoppers chirping as we made a left and proceeded down to the ball room where the reception would take place. Brushing my hand past a line of flowers, the calmness of the night brought a smile to my face.

''So that was fun: at this pace we should be done by early tomorrow.'' I sparked up a conversation.

''Yea.'' She barely registered my voice as she contemplated.

''Okay, let me see. We've been over the games...the dances...and the music.'' Pinkie's voice sounded near the entrance. Ears perking up at the sound of music, Twi hushed me as she got closer to the door. Peering inside, Cadence was discussing the party situation with Pinkie who looked to be oblivious to the disapproving look she received.

''Okay, that's it!'' She flared her nostrils. ''I'm sick of her insulting our friends and thinking she can get away with it: foalsitter or not, she has to pay for this!'' Twi went to open the door, me holding a hand over her mouth and ducking in the bushes with a thud.

''What are you doing?'' ''Can't you see that-

''Sssh. Look.'' I pointed to the alicorn leaving out with Frank, Iron and Valiant. But I noticed a difference in their strides: like they've been worked to the nub, but masked it with a straight face. Waiting for them to pass, I held Twilight still until she licked my hand which prompted me to remove it.

''This cannot keep going on: we need to act now.'' She stood up.

''But how? What could we possibly do: force her to tell the truth?''

That got Twilight to smile sweetly like the grinch as she rubbed her hooves together.

''Maybe that's just what we have to do: come on, I got an idea.''

Frank's Pov,

''Never again,'' - I chugged my third juice down. - ''will I let you convince me to say that speech ever again, Valiant.''

''Come on, we had to tease you a little: we always make the rookies do one embarrassing thing.'' He mocked me.

''Gotta admit we had you.'' Iron nudged me.

''Bastards.'' I cursed them in my thoughts. Besides being forced to recite some lame ass speech that I just may have a aneurysm over, I relaxed as the princess gave us time off after escorting her to her temporary abode. I'm just glad to be relaxing here with everyone and with my sweetness as she leaned into me with a look of happiness on her face.

''This is nice, isn't it?'' Lavender soothed to me.

''Yea, I really can unwind and enjoy these moments, or could if these guys could stop **loudly talking then all would be good.'' I tried my best to drown out their voices.**

''Never mind. Rainbow Dash, you're with me, right?'' Twilight hoped.

''Sorry Twi,'' - She stretched her wings. - ''I've been too busy prepping for my rainboom to notice the princesses bad attitude.''

''The princess is about to get married. I'm sure any negative behavior she might be displaying is simply the result of nerves.'' Rarity pointed out.

''You call that nerves?'' - Jamir brushed some of his long, two tone colored hair. - ''I know nerve: and that is not it.''

''And I'm sure it's the result of being an awful pony who doesn't deserve to even know Shining Armor, let alone marry him!'' Twilight thumped the table.

''Think maybe you're being just a tiny bit possessive of your brother?'' Applejack pryed.

''Yeah!'' Everypony save for Spike, Jamir, myself and Lavender agreed.

''I am not being possessive, and I am not taking it out on Cadance! You're all just too caught up in your wedding planning to notice that maybe there shouldn't even be a wedding!'' Twilight stormed off in the opposite direction, leaving us to think about her outburst.

Geez, slammy much?

''Wonder what's gotten into her?'' Spike wondered. But, as we all tried to make sense of her leaving off like that, Jamir trailed after her.

''Hey! What about our plans?''

But he appeared to pay me no mind as he broke out in a run after Twilight down the dark, calm streets.

Twilight's Pov:

Oh! The nerve of my friends! Can they not see that I'm trying to help: they're all caught up in planning for the wedding to think properly for a moment. Whatever, if they won't help me try and get Cadence away from Shining Armour to try and figure out why's she acting so differently then...I'm on my own. This whole wedding makes no sense to begin with: just out of the blue this all comes up and I'm expect to just go along.

''Well, time to put a stop to this.'' I constructed a few thoughts on my way to try and talk some sense to my brother.

''Wait up, Twilight!'' My coltfriend called after me. Stopping, I had all but forgot about him and his willingness to assist me. Sometimes, I really am glad to have a special someone like Jamir with me and the girls.

''Hold on: and where are you going?'' He showed concern.

''To put a stop to this: since everypony else seems to be to blind to really see the truth then it falls to you and me to act. Come on, we're wasting time.'' I urged as we took off down the walkway.

Whoosh!

''Whoa!'' I yelled, being swept up in Jamir's arms as he took flight and soared to the skies, the ground quickly disappearing beneath us and the crisp waves of air breezing past my mane. From this high up, the entirety of Canterlot shone like ants with us picking up altitude rather fast. Passing by one of the many libraries I used to frequently visit, Shining Armour's temporary's house came into view as we touched down.

''Are you sure about this?'' Jamir asked, barring my way with his hand. Moving his hand aside, I knocked on the door.

''Of course.'' I assured him. ''Plus we can't back out now.''

''Twily!'' My brother embraced me in a hug as we came inside. ''Jamir.'' He sounded neutral. ''Whaddya think? Big brother's looking pretty sharp.'' Shining complimented our uncle's garb. ''What's wrong?''

We need to talk. I think you're making a big–

''Ahem!'' Cadence's voice interrupted us.

''Oh, uh, hi, sweetie.''

''Could I talk to you for a minute?'' She ignored our presence.

''Better see what she wants: help yourself to some- Poof! -snacks.'' He brought a bowl a butterscotch to the table. Waiting for them to head to the other room, I slowly crept over to the door listened on for-

Rustle! Crunch!

''Huh?'' Turning my head to the source, the entire bowl was empty, a few wrappings on the floor as Jamir stuffed the candy into his pocket. Looking at me, a sightly confused look on his face.

''What?'' He muffled. ''I like butterscotch.'' He reasoned.

Smiling, I motioned for him to come closer as I heard their voices from the door.

''- look, we need to talk.'' Cadence's voice muffled through the door.

''I'm here to talk, but what about?''

''It's about your sister, okay?''

I– ''look, look, she's okay–

''Just... listen to me alright? No no–

''I'm listening, I'm listening.''

''I thought I made it perfectly clear I didn't want you to wear that.'' She scolded.

''This was my favorite uncle's.'' My brother retorted.

''And?''

''And I think I should wear it.''

Are you disagreeing with me?

I guess I am– Ah! Peering through a small crack, Shining was clutching his head in pain.

''Oh, dear. Are you getting another one of your headaches? Let me help you.'' We observed a sliver of her horn turning green and zapping my brother, making his eyes all swirly.

''Gyah!''

''Feeling better?'' She asked.

''Uh, mm-hmm.''

She's not just mean and snobby: she's downright evil!

''Come on! Let's go!''

Running outside, the force of the wind blew my mane back as Jamir took me in his arms and ascended to the sky before we could be caught. Dipping through narrow alleyways and old drawbridges, the look of confusion, shock and concern plagued his face as his eyes glazed over and grip on me tightened slightly.

''What the hell was that?'' He shook his head.

That is something I would like to find out as well.

''Whatever that was,'' I tried my best to think of a valid answer, but was perpelexed. - ''but this is obviously undeniable evidence that I was right about Cadence not being who i've come to known...as much as it pains me to do this...we have to ask the girls for help.'' My ears flattened.

''We can't do that: I refuse to put the girls in danger, much less you Twi. I'll...think up an idea of how to handle this.''

''And just how do you propose what we are supposed to do while you go play the dangerous hero game? You said it yourself: you'd do anything for us right?'' - I reasoned. - ''then you should be well aware of the fact that we are not frail, little ponies. We are all in this together.''

Exhaling a swift breath while he rolled his eyes, Jamir looked to already agreed with me as he kissed me on the cheek.

''Guess it's hard to deter you, isn't it? So what's the plan, because I know you have one.'' He smirked.

''It is and I do, sorta.'' I blushed. ''While no physical evidence has been presented, we may be able to convince the princesses to at least investigate her change in behavior.''

''Hmm.'' He craned his head upwards. - ''my idea involved a little game of cat and mouse, ya know? Bait her, get her alone and Bam! Exposition of the truth.''

Considering that option for a moment, it seemed plausible, but could take plenty of planning, waiting, and cleverness which we have no time to do all that. If anything, then my idea would seem to be the better on in this case due to time, yet we have to inform the girls about this. His feet gliding back down to the ground, the suite we were housed in had the lights on, door open, and sounds of chatting drew looks from both of us as we approached.

''Guys! Shining Armour is in real trouble! You have to help-

Stopping to see what the commotion is all about, Rarity, Fluttershy, Rainbow, Aj, Pinkie all are in very stunning dresses while Frank, Spike, Iron, Valiant, and Kanaranx wore black suits.

''Dresses, what are you-

''Can you believe it? We're gonna be Princess Mi Amore Cadenza's new bridesmaids!'' Fluttershy gushed.

''New bridesmaids? What happened to her old bridesmaids?'' I questioned.

''She didn't say,'' Aj admired her dress. - ''But she did tell us that she would love-love-love it if we'd fill in for them.''

Seeing as we've been working so hard and everything.

''And you had your doubts about her.''

''Told you she was an absolute gem!''

''You sure this is what I should wear? Doesn't seem all that aerodynamic.'' Rainbow flicked her dress around.

''Hmm. I'll see what I can do.''

Paying my serious issue no mind, I turned back and walked out and laid my head on the balcony. Hearing soft footsteps behind me with a groan of discontent, Jamir looked to have the same set of thoughts I do.

''Guess since nopony'll listen to reason I guess we're on our own with this.'' I groaned.

''And I know for a fact that it will not be easy, but then again: what is?''

Time Skip: Morning, Jamir's Pov:

Walking down the long, decorated hallway with banners and mosaic tiles added to the quietness that slowly got replaced by the sounds of an organ playing the wedding theme. Seeing Cadence enter in first, me and Twilight slowed our pace down to go over any last minute thoughts.

''You sure about doing this?'' I wanted to assure her decision

''Yes.'' She nodded. ''I'm well aware of what we're doing and do want to back down: Shining Armour and everypony else are so blind to see that Cadence...that's not her. I'm not backing away from this, besides you'll be there with me so hopefully everything will be fine.'' She nuzzled my leg.

Well, no going back now.

''Right.'' I smiled as we made our way to the large double doors. ''I have no doubt in my mind and rest assured that I will be right at your side.''

Twilight's plan is a tad reckless, though the limited time we have is working against us and this needs to be noticed. Plus, I saw it myself: this has gotten a tad out of proportions.

''Sir!'' The two solar guards saluted as me they opened the doors, revealing Tia to be standing at the top of the stairs, in her original form while Shining Armour and Cadence stood in the middle, embracing each other while the girls stood to the latter's left and the guys to the former's right. Hearing out entrance, all eyes were put to us as Twilight developed a sudden scowl at how close her brother and foalsitter was together.

''Twilight, Jamir: you're a little late, but we can still-

''I'm not standing next to her! And neither should you!'' Twilight directed to Shining.

''I don't know why she's acting this way.'' Shingin withheld a nervous chuckle to his bride.

''Maybe we should just ignore her.'' Cadence suggested.

''You have to listen us! We're telling you the truth!'' Twilight continued.

''Oh, my are you okay?'' Fluttershy grew worried.

''I'm fine.''

''Ya sure bout that?'' Aj remained unconvinced.

''Not really a good time girls, it's a lot more complicated than I would love to explain.'' My attention shifted to Twilight taking a step forward, the others having looks of worry.

''She's evil!'' A hoof was pointed to Cadence. ''She's been rude to my friends, demanding, sneaky, and on top of all that: you've changed...and it's not for the better.'' Twilight's ear flattened.

''And also,'' I jumped in. ''Twilight tried her best to inform the girls about her behavior that me and her have observed, but decided to talk to Shining Armour, so we went to go and discuss just that when we saw him being zapped with some green magic from your horn that made his eyes disoriented and even to make matters worse: you never once talked or acknowledged me.'' I folded my arms. With Twilight backing her into a corner, Cadence looked to be panicking as she looked left and right as Twi held a smug smile on her face.

''W-Why?'' Tears streamed down her face. ''Why are you being so mean to me?'' She darted out of the room and past me as she bawled her eyes out.

''Because you're evil!'' Twilight teleported as she ran to emphasize her point. ''And if we don't stop you, you're going to ruin my brother's life!- oof!''

Twi bumped into her brother who had a look of steel plastered on his face.

''You two want to know why my eyes went all 'like that?' It's because ever since i've put up my protection spell, I have been having extreme migranes.''

''But I thought-

''She's been using her magic to **heal me.''**

''But we didn't have any idea that she was doing-

A look of rage and disbelief cut me off.

''Also, with me performing my duties with the Royal Guard, she's had all the responsibilities of planning the wedding put on her and it's been stressing her to try and be on her best behavior and to make sure that everything goes perfect!'' - A breath of hot air left his snout. - ''Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go and comfort my bride...and you can forget about being my best mare. In fact,'' - He paused. - ''you can forget about even coming to the wedding and those goes triple for your brainless savage ape of a coltfriend too: don't bother showing up or you will be dead.''

''Wait, i-i didn't mean to. Guys, help me out here...guys?'' Twilight gasped at the sight of everyone just walking past us, disapproving looks and heads held up.

''Come on ya'll, let's check on the princess.''

''Spike, Frank, Valiant, even you Kanaranx?'' I had no real words.

''Hmmph!''

''You two have a lot to think about.'' Tia's voice held no feeling to it: no care, no love, just upset and hurt as she swatted my reaching hand away. ''Maybe you should just stay here and think about what you've done.'' She never looked in our direction as the door closed.

Wait...we were wrong?

''Maybe all those accusations were all just delusions in our heads...I could have gained a sister, but lost a brother instead.'' She laid her head down on the velvet stairs as even she shed a few tears.

''Twi.'' I came over and brought her in a deep hug. ''We messed up, but it'll be okay...we'll figure something out.'' I whispered.

Time seems to be in a standstill for us as my breathing overlapped Twi's. Everything around us became nonexistent and unimportant until a hoof rubbed both mine and Twi's heads. Looking up, Cadence loomed over us, a small, comforting smile on her face.

''I-I'm sorry.'' She apologized through a few of her tears.

''You will be.'' was all she said before a ring of green fire circled around us began to sink us into the floor at a rapid pace as the last thing I saw was the smug look on her face. And here is some crap to get out of. Again.

*''Cadence!''*

Canterlot Wedding Part 2

Jamir's Pov:

The first thing I noticed that was the very center of my attention is the darkness. So dark that it seems like a living nightmare. I can't even tell where my hands are, it's that dark. If only I can- ''Oh! That's my eye.'' Twilight complained.

''Sorry, are you okay?''

''I'm fine, but think you can provide some lighting? I'd like to know where we are.''

''Got it.'' I brought my hands forward, bringing my magic to my hands, creating a bright golden glow of magic while I put a little extra into my eyes to better compensate and enhance my sight. The light refracted, filling our surroundings of visions with images of ourselves.

''Wait, are these-''Ouch!'' crystals?'' I ran a finger down the surface: smooth and cold with jagged edges.

''Correction: raw crystals, but where are we?''

''Hahahahaha!'' A voice echoed throughout, causing me to look around. ''Why you're in the caves beneath Canterlot, once known to be the home of greedy thieves, brigands, and petty crooks...and now you're prisoners.'' Cadence's voice trailed to a nearby rock where her face was highlighted in green.

''Help!'' Twi yelled.

''It's no use,'' - She smirked. - ''most have forgotten of the existence of these very caves which is why I chose it to be the ideal place for those who interfere with my plans.''

''What plans?''

''The ones I have for Twilight's brother, of course.''

''Don't,'' - She brought her horn to life. - ''don't you dare do anything to him, you monster!''

''...Only way to stop me is to catch me! Hahahahaha!''

''Why, you-

''Nope, over here!''

''Huh?''

''Over here.''

''Stop this you coward!'' I stomped my foot.

''Hahahahaha!''

Blast!

A giant hole formed from blasting a weak spot, revealing the tratious mare who looked scuffed up from the shock of the blast.

''Wait, no- oof!'' Twilight tackled her down. Acting quickly, I summoned both my swords, rushing over and planting one to the ground while the other was set near her neck.

''Don't move.'' I growled.

''Wait, please don't hurt me! Twilight...it's me, Cadence, don't you remember?''

''Yeah, right faker! The Cadence I know would never betray me!''

''Please, the Cadence that brought you down here is an imposter!''

''Likely story, and not one we'll be so easy to believe.'' I brought the sword closer, but heard a trace of actual fear in her voice so I decided to withdraw for a second.

''Sunshine, sunshine: ladybugs awake: clap your hooves and do a little shake.'' Cadence performed the same motions as Twilight when we first got to Canterlot.

''Cadence...it really is you, you do remember me!'' Twi embraced her in a hug.

''Of course, how could I forget the filly I loved to sit for the most?'' She asked. ''wait, when and how did you get pregnant? And who is this?''

Momentarily paying them no mind, I looked to the distance and saw a faint, but noticeable twinkle.

''That,'' I sheathed my weapons. ''can be discussed on the way out of here: come on, we have to stop whoever's impersonating you, stop the wedding and clear our names.'' Breaking off into a run, Twi and Cadence trailing close behind me as I took a left through the jagged caverns, trying to make headway of where to go. Hearing that same laugh echo through the caverns, all sorts of thoughts flooded my mind.

''So who and what are you?'' Cadence asked.

''My name Is Jamir, the one and only human in Equestria that I know of.''

''And how and why is Twilight pregnant?''

Ugh, some many personal questions, we could focusing our efforts on getting out of here.

''Let's just say...it was under unforeseen circumstances.'' I chose not to say any more at this point.

Canterlot, 'Cadence's' Pov:

Looking over the dresses along with mild interest, a smile came to me. How simple it was to deceive everypony. Ha! I deserve an award. After all this time, I will be one step closer to achieving my destiny. Plucking a lone rose from the bouquet, an urge to sing came to me.

This day is going to be perfect, the kind of day which I dreamed since I was small...everypony will gather 'round, say I look lovely in my gown, but what they don't know is that I have fooled them all...

This day was going to be perfect, the kind of day which I dreamed since I was small...but instead of having cake with all my friends to celebrate, my wedding bells they may not ring for me for me at all...

I could care less about the dress, I won't partake in any caaaake, vows well I'll be lying when I saaaaay that through any kind of weather, i'll want us to be together, the truth is I don't care for him at alllll! No I do not love the groom in my heart there is no room, but i'd still him to be all mineeeeeee!

We must escape before it's too late, find a way to save the day, hope i'll be lying if I saaay I don't fear that I may lose him to one who wants to use him, not love him, care for him and cherish him each daaaaay. For I also love the groom, all my thoughts he does consume, oh Shining Armour, i'll be there very soooooooon!

Finally the moment has arrived for me to be one lucky brideeee! Oh, the wedding, we won't make it, he'll end marrying a fake! Shining Armour will be-

Mine, all mine, hehehehehehahahahaha!

''Mares and Gentlecolts, we are today to witness the union of princess Mi Amore Cadenza and Shining Armour...''

Jamir's Pov:

''Oh, we're never going to save him!'' Cadence shed a few tears.

''We will.'' Twi assured. ''We just have to find a way out.'' She looked to the distance. ''There!'' That same gleam from before showed itself, but also lead to a light source from above.

''A way out, finally.'' I sighed, being tired of running through these caverns. Snapping my fingers, I teleported us to what I assumed to be one of the entrances to this place.

''Whoa.'' Twilight held her head in pain. ''I forgot how dazing teleporting can be.''

''Sorry about that hon, it should go away relatively quick, but we can talk about that as we get out of here.''

''You're not going anywhere.'' A trio of voices called.

''Huh?'' Looking ahead, three figures slowly approached us.

''Lyra?''

Some Time Later

Running through the halls of the castle, various was happening at once: I can hear the sound of the organ playing a few feet away from me, Cadence's trying her best to outrun me to get to the wedding first, and Twilight looked to be in slight pain as I heard her groan from my back.

''You okay, Twi?''

''Y-Yea.'' She mumbled. ''Just a slight headache is all.''

And why do I feel like that is nowhere near the real issue here? Hmph, we can discuss it later when-

''I now pronounce you-

Shit.

''Stoooopppppppp!'' I yelled, kicking the door open and setting Twilight down. A series of gasps rang throughout the room as everyone looked to us.

''Ugh, why do you and that human have to be so protective of her brother? W-Why are you ruining my special day?''

''Because.'' Cadence sounded from behind me. ''It's not your special day...it's mine!'' She stepped forward.

''How did you escape my bridesmaids?'' The imposter demanded.

''You're not going anywhere...'' the girls approached us.

Crap, now what? I don't want to hurt them, but it seems like-

''Look!'' Cadene wiggled a bouquet of flowers. ''Go get it!'' She hurled it behind us. Zooming past us, they fought over that stack of flowers like cats and dogs.

''Mine!''

''Don't touch it!''

''I want it!''

Or that could work.

''Let's go!'' I climbed up the rocks.

''Wait.'' Applejack paused. ''How can there be two of them?''

''This calls for an episode of Springer.'' Frank commented from the side.

''She's a changeling! She takes the form of somepony you love and feeds off your love for them!''

Changeling? Love? Why does that feel so familiar to me? Wait, maybe if I sense her aura...w-wait. This can't be...How can it be? I must be mistaken. Concentrating my magic, I felt conflicting auras interact with each other in a way much like the Affinty stones, but this feels wrong. I feel everypony's aura in the room and they're all different, save for mine, Tia and the two Cadences. Hers felt like pure love, almost but behind that was hate, so much hate, remorse, fear, and confusion, but in the midst of those feelings...another showed itself. One that I've felt a few times before, though this was more fleshed out...in the Outlands. No, nononononono!

''This is your only warning: come after me and I will see to it that everything you hold dear is taken away so quickly that your feeble primate mind will be unable to comprehend it.''

Backing away, the first my body instinctively did was trigger the fight or flight response, causing my eyes widen, body to tense up, breathing to go short, and stomach shutting off, giving me a sick feeling as I shook...in actual fear. The flames around the imposter Cadence engulfed her, changing her body in every aspect. Her slim body now grew firm and longer, hooves formed to have holes in them, her cutie mark vanished before my eyes, wings grew to an insect's with black overtaking the entirety of her body while her mane grew thin and green, horn longer and jagged like a knife and eyes opened to reveal a deep green hue. Fangs opening, her long tongue slithered out as she laughed.

''How right you are princess.'' She flicked her mane. ''and as queen of the changelings, it is up to me to find food for my subjects. Equestria has more love than anyplace I have ever visited. My fellow changelings will be able to devour so much of it that we will more power than we have even dreamed of! Oh? Look how it is.'' She pointed a hoof to me. ''The vermin who I warned to stay out of my plans or there would be dire consequences, but you chose not to listen to me.''

''W-Who are you?'' I shook with hesitation to the question, though I really regretted doing that.

''You may call me Queen Chrysalis, or you may know me better as...Azure light.'' She hummed as she moved toward me.

''N-No, stay back, you monster: stay back or I'll-

''Do what? I already control you and you have no idea about how I did so: I can bend you to my will and there's nothing you can do about it.'' She sparked her horn and fired a blast of magic to my chest that didn't hit me, but did something worse.

''No!! Get out my head! Ahhhhhh!!!'' My head throbbed at the pain and shock of some many things flashing back into my mind.

''Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!'' A massive pain surged throughout the human's body: rippling his body and forcing him to scream and slam his fists to the ground, splintering the stone steps. Growling In primal rage and agony, the one thing that the human deduced was:

''This feels worse than a Centaur fucking you In the ass with a 2 foot long spiked dildo!''

Feeling his mind be pushed to the very brink and back, a type of tether snapped Inside him. A distant echo sounded from the deepest reaches of his mind and forced his entire body to move, despite the feeling of thousands of triggers fired telling him to stop.

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

This was the sound of a mind being blown, the screams of murder right in his very core: he felt the need for retribution. Gripping the handle with so much raw force and splayed his emotions in all directions that he failed to notice the darkness spreading at exponential rate. Then after calming down for a quick moment, a pin could be dropped and all could hear it despite the distant sound of rampaging violence outside, but instead a tear fell to the floor, all eyes being on the human as he slowly shook not in pain, but sadness.

''I'm...gonna kill that bitch...''He whispered from the confines of his mind.

''What was that?'' Azure teased. ''Speak up boy, how do you think you'll be able to pleasure these mares if you don't speak up?'' She questioned.

''Uh, Azure...I think we may want to-

''Dieeeeeeeeeeee!'

''Jamir!/My love!'' I barely made out the voices of my friends as I blew steam out my nose, teeth clenching, screaming my lungs out and almost choking on the slew of emotions swirling through my mind, tears filled my eyes as I did all was able to: scream for help as Twilight hugged me as tight as possible.

''Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!''

''Hahahahahahaha! Foolish boy, I told you that you would-

''You bitch!'' Frank shouted, charging forward with Valiant and Iron, weapons in hand.

''Ha!'' the queen laughed. ''back you go.'' She blasted her magic to the trio who were forced back and knocked to the wall with a thud.

''Frank!'' Lavender ran over to check on her lover.

''You honestly think you are to take on me? Fools! When my changeling army breaks through the barrier and take Canterlot: none shall be able to stop us!''

''They'll never get the chance! Not with Shining Armour's protection spell!'' Cadence argued.

''Ha, I doubt that: every moment, Shining Armour gets weaker, and so does his spell, even now my minions are chipping away at it.''

''Why, you-

''Hmm.'' She floated over to Shining. ''He may not be my husband, but he is under my complete and total control...and i'm sorry to say: unable to perform his duties as Captain of the Royal Guard!''

Gasping, Cadence galloped forward, only to be stopped by Chrysalis.

''Ah-ah: don't want to go back to the caves, now do we?''

''Ever since I took your place, I've been feeding off of Shining Armour's love for you and it has been heavenly. First, we take Canterlot, then all Equestria!''

''N-No.'' Tia interrupted. Looking at her best I could, I found out just how serious and true our bond is as her face and actions reflected mine. Her body was shaking, teeth clenching and normally caring, unwavering eyes had tears fill them. When Luna said everything would be shared between us, I didn't think actual psychical and emotional pain applied. I can feel our mind running rampant, body scared out of its mind and our heart...beating like a drum and even though she's not here: Luna has to be feeling the exact same way. ''you won't. You may have made it impossible for Shining Armour to perform his protection spell, but now that you have so foolishly revealed your true self,'' She clashed horns with Chrysalis. ''I can protect my subjects from you!'' Tia let loose a magnificent beam of light that combated Chrysalis's magic.

''Gyah!'' I slammed my fist harder into the floor, hoping to redirect the pain in some way, but it wouldn't stop. Nothing. Nothing I tried is helping me. My mind's doing donuts, too moo stuff's happening to keep track of, body's going crazy and-

The sound of screaming and the clang of metal against the floor stopped all my current feelings as I heard one name be shouted across the room.

''Princess Celestia!''

Mustering whatever strength I possessed from that whole ordeal, a burst of electricity flowed through my legs, letting me jump towards Tia with Twilight in my arms as I landed and collapsed to my knees.

''T-The elements of harmony.'' She gasped, green lighting sparking over her body. ''you must use their power to defeat the queen.''

''No.'' I picked her head and rubbed her burning forehead. ''I'll not leave you here with her.''

''It'll be okay, love.'' She smiled. ''go.'' her voice and steady calmness set an opportune rest with everyone else, though in spite of that, Tia is concentrating all her efforts to not allow the effects to dominate her. Curses, here another extemporaneous problem shows a habit of flaunting itself around every corner. No, I need to remain focused: the elements may just be precisely what we need.

''I'll be back quickly, I promise. Come on girls!'' I regained a tad of my confidence as we rushed out the doors, the girls taking off their dresses.

''Rarity!'' We called to the fashionista, trying to preserve the garbs.

''Oh, coming!'' She galloped with us.

''Hahahaha! You can run, but can't hide!'' Her voice bellowed right in my thoughts. Hitting the ground, my legs vibrated as I sped down the streets of Canterlot, trying my absolute best to orientate myself to my surroundings. Sliding down a railing, the girls each had looks of stone cold determination adorning their faces.

''Hang on,'' Twi said. ''We should be there in-

A massive sound spread in every direction, accompanied by a sickening crack from above.

''They shattered the barrier?!'' I was astounded at the size of figures floating in the air like insects.Diving down, they sooned turned into green projectiles, soaring quickly towards us.

''Move it, move it!'' I yelled. Cutting across an alleyway, the building where the elements began to be in our sights.

''Good, maybe this will be-

Blam!

A crater formed at a changeling landing in front me, bearing his fangs and hissing prompted me put a decent amount of force into a kick that knocked his body back as we continued on.

''Ignore them falling, just get to the elements!'' Twi urged. Zigagging to avoid getting hit, we went up a set of stairs and laid our eyes upon an entire platoon of changelings waiting for us, fangs shown, horns shown, and intimidation factor slightly going up.

''Now what do we do?'' Pinkie facehoofed.

''Uh, panic?'' Flutters suggested.

''We'll just have to do this the old fashioned way.'' Rainbow stretched her neck. ''a good ol' fight.'' she rushed up to meet another Rainbow Dash identical to her.

''Huh?'' She tilted her head, the double doing the same. Then an eye squint and then- ''Oof!'' Rainbow grunted, having the air knocked off of her for a moment.

''What?''

One by one, the changelings began to into Rainbow, Pinkie, Aj, Flutters, Rarity and Twilight: the one throwing me off the most was when only three turned into me.

''Stop them: they must not be allowed to reach their destination!'' A fake version of me ordered.

''Don't let them distract you: we have to remain on the task at hoof.'' Twi growled. Charging forward, what happened next was akin to a bloodbath minus the blood. So many things happened at once: Applejack uppercutted Fluttershy, Rarity bucked Rainbow, Twi backhoofed Pinkie, and a whole lot more happened, the most noticeable some even double teaming themselves. In the midst of all the fighting, the three copies of me each stood in a particular place, one right in front of me, the other just barely within my peripheral vision as I waited.

''What are you waiting for human? Attack, though it won't do you much good: just like the unicorn captain, you're slowly being drained of your magic.'' the one in front chuckled.

''Thanks for noticing: magic or no magic, I won't need it to take down two bit fakes of me.'' I cracked my knuckles.

''Ha! Think fast!'' the one on my right rushed, kneeing me in the gut.

''Ack!'' my eyes dilated from the change in speed.

''Hey, where's your cocky-ass attitude now, eh?'' the one to my left rushed in and caught me with a left jab, knocking spit out of my mouth as I got light-headed.

''B-Bastards...'' I breathed out.

''Hah!'' I got tossed to the one in front who struck me with a side kick, pushing me to the ground. Leaping up, a cocked back fist alerted me to move as I somehow managed to block the fist with my hand, albeit sloppily. Staring into the eye of this faker, I only had one thing to say.

''I-It's not my cocky attitude.'' I spat out. ''It's my confidence! Something you fuckers don't haveeeee!'' I forced him back, getting on my feet in a defensive stance.

''Rip em' to shreds boys!''

Dodging a wild right jab, I ducked under and struck the underside of the chin, a fragile, but unprotected spot that landed with a crack and yelp of pain. My eye catching a slight movement, I intercepted the low kick with my right hand as I balance myself on the other and forced my tip of my shoe to the other's chest and pulled him down, striking him to the face.

''Die!'' the leader charged, throwing a magic blast which I countered with my own that cancelled each other out with a boom. Coughing up magical residue, I moved quick and tied the other's hair together best I could to give me a moment to breathe.

Crouching down, the last copycat got back on his feet and smirked.

''Well.'' He nodded. ''the queen said nothing about you being this feisty, especially after having your mind ripped apart at the seams.''

''Oh, no: I'm still seeing and hearing those damn visions, but they're not important.''

''Impossible, how can you still be standing? You shouldn't be able to face your worst fears and nightmares, it doesn't work like that!'' He yelled.

''Maybe because you feed off of love and can never comprehend just that. I have fears, but...it's who makes me who I am!'' I ran forward and traded blows with him, each one of my strikes being blocked or dodged.

''You're not even trying are you? It has to hard managing living through all those horrible times, being conscious enough to stand, dealing with those you love not trusting you and on top of all that: you're fighting yourself!'' He shoved me back until I hit something.

''Huh? A-a-a-a-omph.'' I collapsed to the ground after a neck chop did me in. Before I blacked out, something one of the three me stooges said had me wondering.

''And he's supposed to be the savior of our world? Please, don't bucking make me laugh.''

''Wake up...'' A voice called to me. Ugh, since when has my head felt like lead?

''Love, wake up please...'' It called again. Opening my eyes, the sight of multiple blurs confused me as it took a minute to adjust, however when I did, my eyes saw something they should not have. Everypony's gone, I can hear distance screaming, and the ever so reoccurring feeling of pain swept through my body. The girls were all pinned to the floor in some kind of green webbing, the guys tied up with rope, and Tia roped up in a cocoon on the ceiling.

''Tia!'' I tried to move, but found myself unable to move.

''Good luck trying to move.'' the queen hummed. ''you just sit there and look hopeless.''

''Well, I am: do somethin' about it please!'' Frank complained as usual.

W-Wait, why am I the only one not strapped down? Seeing Chrysalis go over to the window and stare out to the distance, I tried my best to crawl over to free Cadence and Twilight.

''This day has been just perfect...the kind of day which I dreamed since I was small...everypony under my control, evert stallion, mare and foal! Who says a girl can't really have it allll?

Staggering over to her, I used whatever remainder of my magic to slice through the goop.

''Go.'' I whispered. ''while you still have the chance.''

''Shining Armour...'' Cadence breathed out, embracing him in a hug. For a few seconds, nothing happened...then a spark of love emanated from the two lovers, creating a bond of energy that reached Shining, knocking out of his daze.

''Huh? Wha? I-Is the wedding over?'' He rubbed his head.

''Hmm, so you broke my control, no matter: it does you no good! My changelings already roam free!'' She pointed a hoof outside to the unseeing chaos of ponies being held down, beaten up, chased after, and having their love drained from their hearts.

''Your spell! Use it!''

''Nggh! It's no use: my magic's too weak, I can't do anything.'' Shining tried his best to bring life to his horn, yet only a faint spec of his aura flowed out, barely enough to light a candle.

''My love will give you strength.''

''What a touching, but boring sentiment.''

''Y-You b-bitch.'' I willed myself to speak. ''You w-won't...get away with this.''

''Oh please.'' Chrysalis sighed. ''it seems giving up just does not appear to be a word your feeble primate mind is able to process. I already have-

Whoosh!

A powerful surge of brilliant light shone from their eyes, creating a massive wave of swirling energies that forced the changelings back and out of the city with a resonating shockwave that bounced back in my ears, forcing me to howl in pain as the screams of my inner demons coursed through my every being. Managing to get to my knees and slump my head on a window, the streets looked to be rid of the changelings.

''We did it.'' Shining cheered. ''they're gone.''

''Hahahaha!'' A laugh bellowed. ''I would not go that far Captain, would not be wise to have an inflated ego.'' Chrysalis remained untouched.

''How can you still be here: that should have creamed you.'' Rainbow wound up to charge.

''I have my ways, but there are pressing matters,'' She pointed a hoof to me. ''unless you want everything you know and love to be destroyed before your very eyes...then fight for your life.''

The Start Of The End

Queen's Gambit Vs Rook's Demoniac Imagination

''Fight for your life human, or be added to the immeasurable tally of those imprisoned to my will.'' the queen of the changelings demanded of the human who stood up, despite his limited motion of only standing on his right knee as he stared back into the alluring, yet dangerous eyes of Chrysalis.

''Now why would I want to do that?'' Jamir's body shivered at the feeling of a nonexistent cold wind blowing over. ''And what do you mean fight for my life? You intend to k-kill me?'' the pain steadily increased, drawing every ounce of willpower to not break down, voice pain, discomfort, suffering, give in to the temptations and for what? A major threat not only to him stood some 3 to 5 feet away, also one that caused a slew of different complications to the human's life exponentially.

Laughing at his words, Chrysalis trotted forward, way past the normal boundaries of personal space as her nose touched his own as both locked gazes, hers being ever so sneaky while Jamir's portrayed masked bravado, his mind filled by absolute fear branched to the furthest reaches of his mind. The urge to back away became second nature, well it would have if not for the human's muscles not responding to his brain signals.

Come on, move: this is way too close. Jamir thought. I've got to get away before she does something i'll regret. his mind ran amuk, confusing his notions of right and wrong while the queen kept up the staring farce, waiting for a minute before speaking.

''...Yessss.'' she breathed right in his ear, prompting him to only fall deeper under the proverbial bridge that spanned on, no matter what was done to rectify it. Mouth hanging open with a thousand yard stare present, the queen chuckled as she ran a cold, black hoof along the entirety of the human's smooth face, stopping at the nose to flick it before backing away.

''Oh, worry not:'' she smirked.

''It will not be as your mind would be able to conceive it to be: I present you with a offer you cannot refuse.'' Chrysalis conjured up a mirror with her magic, presenting it to the human to face the reality of what is happening. Staring into it, the human's gentle face accumulated quite a bit of dirt as he could just feel the small dust shards of crystals pierce his eyes as a source of his tear-soaked shirt. His once almond brown pupils long shifted and to a deep red with gold trimmed around the edge of the iris. Dragging the mirror down some, the human's attire fared no better as the black suit vest was completely torn to shreds from the result of the fight with his doppelgangers, however the white dress shirt just screamed filth as a large red blotch of blood long dried over from his eyes bleeding. His black dress pants went through Hell and back seeing as a pant leg was ripped off as somepony (of who he has no idea who) bite it off, leaving deep teeth marks that would bruise in the morning. Lastly, the only thing not completely defiled was the human's luscious, flowing red-golden knee length hair that somehow remained tied up in his scrunchy.

''Tell me...what do you see?'' the queen asked, using her influenced control of the human to force the answer out.

''A-A hopeless s-soul.~'' the ear wrenching sound of grinding teeth alerting Chrysalis of his resistance.

''That you are, that you are.'' she agreed. ''but, that can be fixed...in a number of ways.''

Huh, m-ms. prissy here thinks t-that she has m-me on the ropes, eh? We'll see about-

''Jamir!'' Twilight yelled, running towards her coltfriend, the rest of his friends and lovers rushing to his aid.

The sound of a magical spell striking the human urged everyone to stop in their tracks.

''Oh, no.'' the queen stomped her hoof. ''we would not want the human here to have an accident now would we?''

A blast of energy struck the human's core, easily decimating his shirt as he writhed in agony, only adding the queen's enjoyment and the suffrage of his friends.

''Aaaahhh!'' the force of the blast knocked him back down to a sitting position as he barely managed to cover his arms to shield the blast. Feeling the beam be more concentrated on his heart than any other place forced his mind to create false images, broken dreams, and waking nightmares that clawed at the human's psyche. In turn, his pain and suffering as the princess of the sun experienced the backlash from her place with everyone else on the sidelines, observing the fight as the central view of the the surrounding areas all looked to be drenched in one thing: emotions.

''Ha! I find it amusing how you squirm underneath my hoof like a bug! How do you feel that I should torture you even more?''

Raw emotions, confused emotions, even ones that lay dormant awakened at the apex of the human's capacity for restraint as a tether snapped inside of him.

''Chrysalis.'' the human snarled. ''you obviously has no idea of who you're messing with.''

Raising an eyebrow, the queen narrowed her eyes as she laughed. Slowly walking to the middle of the aisleway, the small stream of smoke and smell of semi-burnt flesh brought out a sadistic smile to both Jamir and Chrysalis.

''Prepare to be die, human.'' the changeling flicked her tongue to the floor where her saliva ate away at the carpet like termites.

Really? Acid saliva? She's not playing around. the human's thoughts recognized the danger in front of him and retaliated by pumping adrenaline into his veins, enabling a bit more controlled movement of his body. Trying his absolute best to stand on his two feet through the feeling of 10 tons bearing down onto his back made for a slow, pain filled rise.

''Yea.'' Jamir understood now. ''that's not happening...so why not do this how we both know this is to end?'' his fist were put up.

''Very well: when I gut you, do not say you did not have a chance to have your life spared.'' Chrysalis stood her ground.

''Hold on, we're coming to help you-

''No, Frank.'' the human calmly ordered. ''If she wishes for a fight then she shall receive one...but know this,'' he paused. ''Chrysalis: you can call me obsessed, it's not your fault that they hover, I mean no disrespect, it's my right be to hellish.'' he stopped.

''But.'' Frank sighed. ''We can't just stand here doing nothing!''

''It's okay.'' Shining Armour laid a hoof on his shoulder. ''he's got this under control, or at least he better have it under control.''

''But we can help!'' Rainbow argued.

''Look at them.'' he gestured to the look of rage and concentration in both of their eyes. ''something tells me that they're not likely to let any of us interfere or it could be a problem.''

''He means to say that the only thing we can do at this point is just watch.'' Cadence figured.

''I will do no s-such thing: my mate is scared, confused and rapidly having his magic depleted. I must help!'' Celestia hissed.

''Sorry, princess: I don't think you're in any condition to help out: you look as bad as Jamir does.'' Fluttershy advised. That made the solar princess feel helpless at the moment. How could he just stand by while a international threat stands not a few feet away? And to top it off, her mate, her love is fighting this battle with everything that he has besides the wave of fear she can feel swaying from his very soul.

''Tia..'' the human's voice echoed in her mind. ''I-I'll be fine, y-you just make sure everyone stays c-clear.''

''Very well...I trust you, but do not fail.'' she thought back.

''Huh?''

''But...I still get jealous!'' he blasted off with precision, aiming a fist right for the midsection of her chest as the blow landed with explosiveness, drawing a grunt from the queen as she braced for impact, taking the attack head on. Bringing her forehoof down, the human managed to move out of the way to try and avoid the onslaught of hoof strikes aimed for his head. Weaving and bobbing proved to be more difficult as a stream of spit hit his arm, distracting him to acknowledge the burning pain while the queen struck him across the face, forcing him to the floor.

Damnit! That...really h-hurts.~ Pulling dirty tricks, well I can do that too! Jamir devised a small plan he hoped could tip the fight in his favor.

''Come on, that's all you got? Even Aj can be more feisty, pleasing and ready to blow in bed, even before I tease her all the way.'' Jamir taunted.

''H-Hey!'' A blushing Applejack scolded.

''You little brat!'' the queen growled. ''I was going easy on you, but I see you really wish to die!'' she fired a blast of magic to the human, who remained still.

''Move, move out of the way!'' Pinkie screeched.

''Come on, you idiot: I know you're beat up, but not this stupid!'' Frank berated.

I just hope this works. he hoped in his mind. Crouching down low to better control his gravity, he smirked as the wind around picked up, blowing his hair every which way. The spell hit with deadly accuracy as a shriek of pain was heard, but not from the human.

''What have you done?!'' Chrysalis recoiled at the scorch mark left on her coat as she shied away from touching from her position on the floor.

''Quite simple.'' the human said, holding the source of Chrysalis's pain in his palm. ''I got a little curious being down in the caverns with Twilight and Cadence, so I picked a curious hair: those crystals you mentioned? A few remained, one holding a higher chance for a refractive nature as Twilight's magic struck it. Before I knew it, I had a natural shield in my hand to counter your blast with a little location magic in the case you or 'Cadence' might have wanted to attack me, that's how you're on the ground now: the spell tracked yours so fast that I knew where you would fire before you did.''

''Hmph, clever move.'' she praised. ''I underestimated you, a big mistake on my part, one I do not intend to make again!'' A bright light filled the room, blinding the human as hoovesteps were heard, throwing the human off guard at the worst possible moment.

''Gah!'' A bloodcurdling scream rippled through the entire room from Celestia and the human as a blunt, but sharp force pierced Jamir's lower stomach, drawing a cough of blood to sully the velvet carpet as he managed to compose himself long enough to see that the changeling's horn was the culprit.

''Jamir!'' Twilight panics, rushing forward, being turned away by Cadence to not see the gruesome sight before them. Almost all of her sharp, jagged horn struck the human's stomach, tearing the skin like flesh so far that it was forced out the other end as the blood and stomach acid dripped out, coating the appendage.

''A-A-h, a-ah...'' Is all Jamir was able to manage out from the shock. The pain was on par with the emotional pain he beared in the Griffon Kingdom, controlling.

''Hahaha! What was that about not dying?'' the queen joked. ''I would think you have more fight in you then this, but I guess that-Oof!'' her head was struck at the base of her forehead, drawing a involuntary panic attack to occur. Feeling his hands take hold of her, hushed screams of anguish confused the changeling as she figured no one, not even him would be able to react to this level of trauma.

''You.'' his eyes narrowed. ''just m-aa~de a colossal mistake.'' he grunted harshly. ''Raaaaahhh!'' he yanked forward, ripping the foreign object from his body, drawing a spurt of blood to seep out as over a thousand nerve endings sparked, Jamir ignored it however, besides at this point nothing else could possibly hurt that his mind has not fabricated a possible scenario for.

''W-What are you?'' Chrysalis rubbed her head. ''why won't you die?!'' she panicked at a steady growth in the human's magic that spiked. She can literally feel bits and pieces of his magic returning, but what is making him do this?

''Those harlots!'' Chrysalis thought to herself. ''they're supplying him with magic!''

Steadily, the small cuts, bruises, and otherwise miniscule things healed over, barring the 2 inch thick hole in his stomach still remained, the blood long stopping. With his head down, hands clenching uncontrollably, tears along with a thicket of his breath becoming smoke began to unnerve the queen. Upon seeing a concentrated portion of magic be focused to his throat and left hand, she possessed a pretty good idea of what to expect.

''I had hoped it would not have to come to this.'' Jamir spoke with complete seriousness. ''but, it appears I have no choice but to go all out.'' he stared at the floor for what seemed ages until he raised his head, revealing the human's blood red eyes, fixed only on the queen as into looking to them...Chrysalis's cold heart stopped for an entire minute, tricking her brain to believe that she died right then and there.

''It's time to...''

''No, it can't end like this!'' Chrysalis panicked.

''For you...''

''This is not how it will end!''

''To die!'' he released a condensed beam of magic that zoomed by Chrysalis, striking a bit of her mane off as it cracked a hole through the mosaic glass as it whizzed by, decimating a nearby building to smithereens as it caught fire and exploded, the heat bouncing back, splaying out in the room, raising the temperature as she sweated a bit.

''Next one won't miss.'' he blasted off, rushing with a cocked back fist, the magic behind it swirling all colors of the rainbow.

''No!!!'' she brought her horn to life, sliding the broader side to Jamir's fist, each contacting the other with a ear shattering sound, creating a wave of different colors, a shockwave pushing everything back.

''Ahhhhh!''/''Ahhhhhh!'' the sound reached unimaginable levels, the light consuming both into a state of limbo as the entire building ruptured to the base.

Some time later, unknown location:

A cold silence swept the barren wasteland as Jamir looked over it with a curious eye. From where he stood was a vast land that spanned for miles with a layer of clouds and snow plastered on the ground around him as he brought his eyes to the horizon, gazing at the breathtaking sight of a ginormous planet in front of sight, a moon in its orbit. Taking a moment to admire this vast, unexplored land, he almost shed a actual tear of joy from this.

But then he realized something: where the hell is he?

''Hello?!'' he yelled, hoping to grab someone's attention. Brrrhh! It's cold out here. Thanks to the Changeling queen, Jamir was not exactly cut out for artic weather. To him, it seemed like nobody has lived here for ages. Is this some dream world perhaps, or some random delusion?

Whatever it is, the human saw fit to address the growing cold as he checked his magic.

''Hmm, I still have some left: better use it wisely.'' he closed his eyes and thought of more appropriate clothes for the weather. A white tee shirt was draped over a nice, long green sweater wrapped over a white puffy coat with a hood. Some red and black trimmed pants with extra padding covered Jamir's body snugly as his black, steel toed buckled winter boots sank into the snow. Lastly, whatever reason, he summoned a white cloak over all clothing as an attempt to blend in. Flipping both to his head, he walked forward in the hopes of finding out where exactly he is. However before he could take two steps, a distressed voice bellowed in his mind.

''Love, where are you? I cannot sense you anywhere.'' Celestia's voice sounded hurt, scared almost.

''Well.'' he started. ''some arctic tundra of some kind, i'm by myself at the moment, and it looks like i'm on an entirely different planet.''

The human looked around to try and spot signs of life, but came up with squat.

''Is Chrysalis there with you?''

''No.'' Celestia replied.

''Must mean she's here with me then.'' Jamir deduced. ''I'll find her, force me to take us back, and arrest her for her crimes. it seems that-

''iieeeeeeee!''

I have a visitor...and pretty good idea of who.'' the human brought forth his sword. ''talk to you later.''

''Wai-

He cut the connection after that. Craning his head upward, a small blur was rapidly approaching him, a tint of green telling him all that was needed. Sucking in a brief inhale of air, he sprinted forward, closing the gap. Dodging the flurry of airborne attacks was somewhat of a issue as the hole in his stomach caused a slight stumble. Scaling up a ledge, his majestic green and white trimmed wings lifted him off the ground.

Flying up to the heavens, Jamir's sword was fully unsheathed as his grip tightened. Getting closer to his target, he swung his sword in an arc, upon contacting Chrysalis's horn they forced each other to a stalemate, a wave of pressurized air crackling between them.

''Where are we?'' he demanded.

''The place of your death!'' Chrysalis roared back. Pushing his sword back, she rushed forward, clashing attacks once again. Being slammed into a revenue, Jamir struggled as he lost leverage with Chrysalis bearing down on him. With a slight red tinge coming from the base of his throat, Chrysalis gasped as a beam of magic exited the human's maw that put considerable distance between the two. Getting up, rage began to fill his eyes with a stone cold determination with the changeling evading the narrow attacks, each shot leaving his mouth like a cannon until it struck a glacier that caused a massive avalanche to flow down. Soaring to the sky at maximum speed, the surrounding air condensed, forming a cone to propel him forward almost as fast as Rainbow Dash. Holding his sword for a overhead swing, steel met flesh as screams of pain filled his ears, but he was done, not by a long shot. Correcting his flight pattern, he came around to grab hold of Chrysalis and take her with him as he kicked her with such force that it not only forced the wind out of her, but knocked her unconscious and packing across the horizon line.

''Great, now I gotta go get her.'' Jamir trailed after.

Within in a few minutes of flying at high speed, the arctic tundra slowly disappeared beneath him to be replaced by bright lights and shadowed figures. Coming over a mountain, another sight lay before him that paled in comparison to the cold, desolate plains. A large metropolis that spanned for miles to come, with many advanced technological buildings flanking magnificent ships that each portrayed a blue glow with one building towards the bottom appearing to be a central hub.

Scanning the area over as he glided through, the sights of the foreign world enraptured Jamir, but the one thing that had him truly shellshocked was the sight of people...actual humans, at least that's the basic defining characteristic of the populus with the presence of a human touch. Mainly comprising of a mutation with animals and technology brought a thought to his head. Some had Lion manes, others with Wolf tails, Ram horns, Tiger claws, and some even had Dragon wings. For the technology portion, a few had circuits embedded into their skin, small transformable parts strewn about the arms, legs and torso. The whole sight was extraordinary.

''Is this some kind of ancient civilization?'' he asked. ''No doubt Twilight would get a kick out of-

Crash!

''Huh?''

Looking to his left, a rather large smoke cloud began to form at the site of what looked to be a information hub from the number of inhabitants inspecting the crash as well as others conversating around. Shedding his bulky clothes, Jamir adapted to just the white tee and cloak. Landing down with a thud, the looks of mild confusion did little to unnerve him as these people are human in a way, so any preconceived racial notions were tossed to the side. Moving past some broken glass and chipped solar panels away, the human stepped inside the circular dome, many lights shining on him as the source of his plight lay near a portal of sorts, surrounded by a slew of light with a stone arch.

Approaching the downed queen with determination, a pressure began to weigh down on the human, but was later ignored. The sight of Chrysalia hunched over on the glass floor, horn slightly sparking as she groaned. Grabbing a firm hold at the base he prepared to lift her up, only to for his eyes to turn white and experienced visions of a past life, living nightmares flashed in his eyes.

Unknown Location:

Once again, the human opened his eyes to see yet another wide array of blank surroundings, however this one was not unlike the previous ones: this was filled with hate, regret, fear and confusion. Jamir could feel all these emotions like a leech sucking away at his blood. A damp, dark forest was laid out before him. Ugh, why couldn't be easy for him? Always some dark, spooky place to track down someone, never a nice little cabana with drinks or a nice village but no. He didn't complain, besides somebody like him had no real room to do that. More importantly is what the fuck is going on with these roaring voices lingering around his head. It wasn't this random since Twilight snapped about a friendship letter.

Going forward with caution, the voices began to increase, causing him to pause. Upon seeing a small green orb next to him, the human inched over, grasping the softball sized object in one hand, small images pulsed in and out at random.

First Vision

In a distant sector of what appeared to be a hive swarmed with changelings, old and young through the dense underbrush of the hive, ducking and sliding past colonies going to conduct business, talk, patrol, etc. In the middle of all this lay a great alcazar, home to the current queen. This all seemed like a twisted maze of confusion until the image shifted inside, a large black mass hunched over a changeling infant.

''Mommy, mommy! Are you okay?'' A tiny voice sounded. The filly before looked to be fairly young with a dark coat, a somewhat greenish blue mane and tail with a little bow in her hair as her little wings buzzed about worriedly.

''I'm fine, Chrissy, but mommy needs you to make her a promise.'' The older changeling assured being a somewhat spitting image of her child, looking to be tired after a long day's work, but masked it with a small smile.

''What's that?''

''I'm not feeling too well, sweetheart: mommy's...sick and needs your help.''

''I'll do whatever I can for mommy!''

''Good child, I've sensed a particular frequency for quite some time now and it has only grown more pronounced ever since. Mommy called in a favor from an old friend, you remember Mr. Discord, don't you?''

''Of course, I'll never forget the day he made it rain milk!''

The queen chuckled, reminiscing on that day: she's never seen Chrysalis more hyper than before.

''Well, I've asked him to take care of a certain problem for me as I go away for a while.''

''Will you come back?'' Chrysalis hoped.

''Of course I will.'' she rubbed a loving hoof to her child's head. ''But it will be quite some time before I can return but I need you to promise me that when the day when that presence comes to be at its highest that you will do what needs to be done so mommy can come back.''

''Okay! I promise mommy!'' the filly cheered.

''Wait, was that...Chrysalis?'' Jamir grew confused. ''I never knew she wasn't so much of a bitch, but that's her mother? Whoa.'' he shook his head. Viewing back into the sphere, the image shifted to a more laid back setting in a lush forest as a more aged Chrysalis trotted through, a wandering look on her face.

''I wonder when mommy's coming back.'' Chrysalis spoke to herself. ''It's been a few years since she left, but I still miss her. No! I can't be distracted, I have to keep an open eye for that disturbance thingy she talked about!'' she looked back to her reflection in the pond.

''Well, look who I spy with my eye!'' a voice sounded next to her. Looking over, a actual eye was in front of her as she jumped back in shock.

''Mr. Discord?'' she asked, still frightened.

''Ha!'' the lord of chaos slapped a knee as his eye dropped down to the floor, slicking over to his goat leg and heading back over to his face. ''Apologies, my dear, couldn't resist.'' he reasoned. ''I overheard your entire conversation and wanted to assist you, after all I do owe Vestia a debt, so allow me to give you some insight on your quest.'' he brought forth a bright light in his paw, a mischievous grin on his face.

''What'll that do?''

''Answer all your potential questions my dear. Answer all your questions...''

''Wait that prick had a hand in all this?'' Jamir was flabbergasted. ''What. The. Fuck?'' Taking one last look inside, the image moved to another, portraying a more current image. Seeing her walk through the lines of incubation pods, Chrysalis stopped at one and sighed.

''Mother.'' Chrysalis looked to the floor. ''If you can hear me, I would really wish for all this to be to a end already. Day in and out, I have trained my subjects, done my duties as queen, handled minor issues and still nothing has surfaced for that 'grand disturbance' you mentioned. I've been through ages of the same things, over and over again. Should I just give up? Or just...Oh: I don't know anymore.''

Dropping the sphere from his hands, Jamir fell back onto his rear as he received a mental slap to the face from that entire ordeal. Swallowing a lump in his throat, he...understood everything now. All of it. No shroud of confusion was left out, nothing. Everything he possibly needed to comprehend, he already did. Before he could get a complete sentence out, his body was jerked forward with the speed of fighter jet then hit the brakes as the force made his eyes close and body feel the G-force equivalent to a small moon shattering his bones. Hissing in pain, all of his nerves fired off at the same time, making his body flare up like a christmas tree. Feeling a rigid object in left hand and a smooth one to his right, Jamir looked to see that not only was he back where he originally started, but also that Chrysalis had woken up with tears in her eyes.

Contemplating what he witnessed back in what he presumed to be her mind, all manner of ripping her spine out and using her skull for a drinking cup slowly faded as he looked to her broken face.

''So.'' she choked on her tears. ''Now you know: go on and be done with it. End my miserable life, I have nothing else to do with it anyhow.'' Chrysalis accepted her fate. After all this time of waiting, scheming, fighting and betrayal, the human finally had the chance to get even with the one who did not him wrong, but those he loved and cared about, so he took his time thinking about how to end her life with his katana pressed to her jugular.

Then...he remembered as he thought back.

''Was what Azure did unforgivable? Yes. Should she pay for that that? Hell yes. But you can't-

''But nothing!'' Twilight shut him up. ''I don't know about you but I think that revenge is not the right path to undertake when it could littered with danger. The right thing to do would be to let the authorities take care of and her and they can handle her punishment from there. You always go head in without thinking and do you ''SNIFF!'' know what that has gotten you into? A month in ''SNIFF!' prison away from us.'' She paused. ''Even if they don't show it, the girls and myself have agreed that you should give up on going after her. She turned tail and ran away which tells me that she is a coward. All that matters is that you're here with us, so I'm asking you from the deepest part of my heart: will you please just give up on her and just stay with the ponies you love? We...''SNIFF!'' won't be able to handle losing you again. Please.'' She embraced the human in a hug, Rainbow and Applejack following after.

While this was a tough choice to be made on his part, Jamir showed no regret or second thought as he removed the blade, offering a hand instead.

''W-What are you doing?'' Chrysalis asked.

''Helping you up: come on we gotta get back.'' his sense of logic must have smashed like a watermelon. This is Chrysalis. Chrysalis! How can he be acting so calm and...unaffected by what occurred?

''Why?!'' she bellowed. ''After all I have done to you, why are you doing this? You could have ended my life and nopony would have cared. This is baffling! W-Why are you so easy-going about this? For buck's sake I tried to kill you!'' she thumped a weak hoof to his chest. ''J-Just do it already.'' Chrysalis burst into tears. For some time, all was quiet with the human as he sat there, watching the queen bawl her eyes out not only in pain, but confusion and hopelessness.

''Because you didn't mean to actually do it. You were urged, more or less forced into this position. You had no choice but to this for your mother, but that's the cause for all this: you did this out of wanting to please and bring back her back after all those years of being alone. Only hurt people hurt people, or ponies in this case. While I would not have been so naive to fall into the trap you did, I would never kill if I did not have to, that being said for the times I did: I have always considered and hoped for another option. Chrysalis i'm sparing you because...I understand now. I'm not slicing your neck because you need to live your life the way you wish to live it. Real living is living for others.''

Being shellshocked long enough to take his hand in a good grip, the queen and human stared at each other, no longer hints of rage shrouding their eyes.

''I-I can't go back.'' Chrysalis's ears dropped. ''I caused so much trouble with so many others, how can I-

''Hey, let me take care of that.'' Jamir stopped here. ''I mean, you are sorry for what you did, right?''

''Yes.'' Listening to the tone of her voice, it held no malice, deceit, trickery, or anything of the sort: a genuine apology.

''Then that's all that matters: we can handle that as the issues fly to us but this'll take one hell of a explaining to do back home.''

Charging what little of her magic she possessed left into her horn, a brilliant green glow swirling through both of them as Jamir laid a hand to her back before teleporting.

''You know that you will have a lot to atone for, right? Just because I have forgiven you does not mean the girls and everyone else you wronged will be so willing to do the same. At the very least, the death penalty can be off the table with a little convincing.''

Lifting her head up, Chrysalis actually had a heartfelt smile on her face right as the light overtook them.

''Thank you.''

Poof!

Canterlot:

Poof!

Everypony had just come back from helping free the citizens from all that, ugh goop. At this point, nobody's ever thinking of eating jelly again or peanut butter for that matter. Celestia had not heard from her mate in quite some time and began to worry even more. She would have followed after him in a heartbeat, but due to her low magical reserves, she had little in the way of trying to duplicate the spell Chrysalis used.

Coming back into the place where all had started, a massive surge of power hit Celestia in the face like her least favorite thing as it stopped her in her tracks. In front of her stood Jamir, a white cloak strung over his face. Her love's here! She doesn't have to panic anymore, she won't have to-

''What the buck is she doing here?!'' Rainbow Dash growled. Looking to where she gestured, the changeling queen stood next to him, a look of rage coming to Celestia's face.

''You insufferable hag!'' Celestia lost her composure for a moment. ''How dare you return here! Do you really think that-

''Guys!'' Jamir stepped in front of her. ''I know this looks bad, trust me I know: but don't do what I think you're gonna do.''

''Why not?'' Applejack readied to charge. ''After all she's done you're defending her?''

''She must be controlling you again!'' Rainbow said, doing the same as the farm pony. ''Let's rumble!''

''Hear me out: i'm not under any control, I just saw the true nature of why she did all that: it's all pretty justified to me.''

''The wedding, controlling Shining Armor, putting us in the cavern: how can that be justified?'' Cadence wondered.

''If you'll give her a chance, I promise you that this will all make sense.''

Everyone remained skeptical as he could be under some hidden influence.

''Please, guys.'' he begged. ''I wouldn't go this far if I didn't know what I was doing. Just...let me show you and if by some miracle i'm wrong then do what you will to her, but she deserves a fair shot, doesn't she?''

''You know, you never cease to amaze me.'' Twilight trotted over, nuzzling the human. ''If he's this determined to try and prove that her actions were not just cause, then I say that we give him that chance.''

''Thanks, Twi: even in harsh times you still had my back.'' Jamir smiled.

''Of course, who would I be without-

''Twi?'' Jamir asked.

''It broke.'' she whispered, shock on her face, but happiness in her voice.

''Huh? What broke?'' Pinkie poked her friend.

''My water broke: the baby's coming!'' she announced.

''What?!'' Everyone yelled.

''Quick, somepony get her down to the medical wing!'' Shining commanded.

Epilogue

Bonds Of Time:

4 months later:

Let's see: a few months passed since the wedding and a lot occured during that short period. Where to start first? Hmm, oh. The first thing would be the birth of our child after all this time of waiting and thinking. A few things, it's a pony(kinda figured that.) a unicorn filly to be more precise. With a whole hour of screaming at the top of her lungs, caked in sweat, panting and nearly crushing my hand with her hoof, out came our baby who bore a striking resemblance to her mother, with a purple coat same as Twi's though her red mane and tail a white and grey vertical stripe running down it made her look so adorable.

''So.'' Twi spoke after catching her breath as she cradled the filly in her hooves. ''What should we name her?''

''How about Amethyst? Yea, Amethyst Sparkle.'' I decided.

''That's a good name, Darling.'' Rarity complimented.

''I like it.'' Rainbow agreed.

''Same here!'' Pinkie shouted.

''Me too.'' Flutters nodded.

''Well, it seems to fit her.'' Aj tipped her hat.

''It seems we are in agreemence.'' Tia said, handing us the birth certificate.

Amethyst Sparkle:

Born in Canterlot Medical Hospital at 9:30 A.M. on September 12th, 2015.

(A/N: just going with that, had to put something.)

Parents: Twilight Sparkle and Jamir Johnson.

''I love it.'' Twi drew me in a hug. ''Hey there, come and say hello to your daddy.'' she handed the filly to me, a cheerful look on my child's face as she stared at me.

''Hey there, I'm your dad: nice to finally meet you.'' I smiled. But, in return I got a slobbed on nose as Amethyst chose to nibble on it.

''Great, she thinks i'm a toy.'' I laughed.

''Daaadi.'' she spoke for the first time. ''Da-daddy!'' Amethyst burst into laughter.

Pushing that aside, all's been well with me, Twi and our little bundle of joy. Every now and then Auntie Pinkie Pie or Fluttershy would come by to babysit or play with her while Rarity got to work designing clothes for her while Rainbow and Aj tried other methods to chip in, such as offering to teach her to fight. And of course I denied that idea...for now. What else has happened? Ah, yes with some actual time on our hands, me and Luna began drafting up plans for our empire together. She's already got the best architects working on the final design as we speak, though the track was *cough my idea. *cough. Construction's scheduled around the next two months so that will be something to look forward to.

The wedding was put back on as planned, everything going smoothly this time as Shining Armour took a better perspective on me as he wanted me to say a few words and perform a double rainboom beside Rainbow Dash.

Anything else i'm missing? Oh yea! My boy finally did it! After years of pestering me of still having my virginity, the bastard finally lost his to Lavender. About time, any longer and the dust mites would have all but rented out her vagina. Ha! Burn.

What else on the agenda? Oh, yes, that's right. Before all this drama went down about the baby, I had just came back from whatever fucked up place Chrysalis dragged me to when I managed to convince the girls to give her a fair chance. I saw things back there...some I wish not more than others, but it explained a lot to me about why she did what she did. Do I forgive her? No, not entirely anyways, I no longer wish to gut her when I see or hear her name. Do I still have my fear of 'Azure Light?' To a degree, but I've prepared a slight contingency plan. A type of magical chain and collar system. While I was inside her mind, I discovered things I can use against her should she step out of line. She's already pleaded her case to the High Canterlot council and they've found her innocent of her crimes from me showing them exactly what occurred in her head. They tasked her with a year of community service and made it they're own thing seeing as I have access to her memoires now that I keep the closet eye on her while she repents for her wrongdoings.

Kicking back on the balcony at the library, Twilight called my name as she came up.

''Come on, we have to go and pick up Amethyst from Fluttershy's.''

''Alright, let's go.'' I hopped on the railing.

''Uh, Fluttershy's house is the other- ''Whoa!'' she yelped, being put into my arms. ''What are you doing this time?''

''Flying: it's quicker.'' I responded.

''You promise not to do any barrel rolls this time? Last time, I nearly threw up my lunch.''

''No barrel rolls.'' I smooched her on the cheek. ''But nothing's said about this!'' I leaped off, my wings expanding to full growth as I circled back around, soaring up past the clouds to Fluttershy's cottage.

''You just love showing, don't you?'' Twi held her hooves around my neck.

Smirking, I turned over, having her body on my stomach as my wings glided with the wind current.

''Only for you girls, only for you.''

End

Growing

He who conquers others is strong; He who conquers himself is mighty.

Lao Tzu.

The quaint, little town of Ponyville was known for many things. Being a peaceful and welcoming town, home to many colorful and unique figures. Being a epicenter for one of the self-proclaimed best places In Equestria to have the freshest and exquisite apples this side of Dodge Junction. In the wee hours of the morning: ponies got to and went to work, conducted business, engaged In friendly conversation and made the day go by. As for the nighttime: most went to bed snuggled up with a book, a nice cup of late night tea or a loved one. All In all: Ponyville seemed like any other town. However, one day 6 mares and a baby dragon were going about their day when a sudden and unknown species came to Equestria not only on a whim, but with a target on his back. The human had no Idea that what he Idolized, almost worshipped to a degree turned out to be real. Stepping through a trans-dimensional portal with no Idea of where his destination took him, the small town of Ponyville out of endless possibilities just seemed to fit the bill. With nothing but the knowledge he received In school, his wits, phone, and the human's Imaginary friend: a lot happened. In a part of town, the blazing sun shone on the library In the distance, blanketing the town with a heat wave that seemed hot enough to cook flesh. Sitting on the balcony and utterly paying the heat no mind as It actually helped the human to better get a well done tan going. Alongside him was a baby dragon with a green scaled coat that covered the back of his body and spines that reached up to the tip of his head while the front was adorned with purple. Short, stumpy claws, small feet and a pair of slick shades on his face, a sigh came out.

''This Is the life.'' The dragon welcomed the blazing heat that reminded him of an embrace with his surrogate mother, Twilight Sparkle.

''Yea, just feels good to relax and unwind.'' A soft voice laced with laziness spoke. Next to the dragon sat another human, more specifically the embodiment of a voice turned human after a turn of events. Wearing a wife beater and pair of well fitting pajama shorts, the human wiped a wave of sweat from his forehead and wiped his hand to the tangled mess of his black shoulder length hair and smiled. Aiming his blue eyes to the horizon ahead, familiar sights were In his vision.

''For you maybe, I hate the heat.'' A third voice sounded, though this was of complaints and annoyance. Sitting besides his best friend and apprentice that he's been training for a few months was the one that this all started with. Legs crossed, face In a book, and wearing a pair of swimsuit trunks and a umbrella behind him, a male with a smooth and young face that showed signs of much faster growth than others around the facial area and black hair contorted In the way of a fauxhawk and deep brown eyes sat In a small pool In an effort to combat the heat and cool down. As with the current times, he chose to take his time In looking at a book that reminded him of the best seller book he loved: Harry Potter. Reading Daring Do and the Griffon's Goblet, the book enthralled the human and had glued his eyes to the current page he was reading. In all, a few months ago: quite a lot happened. With first arriving with no real sense of self and purpose: the previous life left nothing for him to grasp as he wanted a better place to go to. Constructing his weapons with the aid of a Earth Pony smith and obtaining the know-how to adapt to this new world: he was ready. Defeating king of the Diamond Dogs, Yevon: he was next In line to take over as the next king as some type of hierarchy system. He was killed, so whoever else the position could be filled by eluded him to this day. Along with that the magic of Equestria as well the ancient and mystical power of the strange, but powerful Affinity gems changed the human's life by granting him the ability to cast and even to a degree resist some forms of magic.

After meeting a strange unicorn who came to the humble town came out of nowhere seemed nice to the human. Him and Azure Light got along as a older sister and her younger brother would. Which brings another point to his life In Equestria: the undying and steadily growing love for the 6 mares and two princesses that not only bonded with him from pure romance, but the feeling was In the air and can heavily Influence the most fragile of hearts, no matter who they may be. Their love has been tested a few times before, but something In the human's gut told him that this was merely the beginning to prove himself. Through his life going by a moderate pace, he soon encountered a 'demon' In his past that he was forced to confront and vanquish. Another friend of the human, Yasu Tsukiko or 'Yasu-kun' as he Is only referred to be the human was somehow the start and end of his troubles. Following a stray lead on a Internet forum talking about a 'package' of sorts at the Detroit Model T plant and checking out the source, the least that was found was a dirty composition and two strange coins: one golden coin with six plated stars surrounding a Image of of the sun while a blue one with the same features, only a moon and a jump scare In the form of a Intruder, the human played the hand he dealt himself and found It to pay off and to a thorn to his side.

Sometime after attending the Grand Galloping Gala, the human soon found out that the Lord of Disharmony, Discord broke out of his stone prison and somehow possessed Yasu's body due to a spell by Starswirl The Bearded that was performed centuries ago that was able to change a state of matter to another and transport It somewhere else, but the spell was Incomplete following Starswirl's death and ended up doing something completely different. Worming his way on Earth, taking control of Yasu and going back to Equestria to force the human fight against his friend. It happened.

''Wait, Yasu-kun!'' Jamir yelled, not accepting the fact of what just happened. Growling and then formulating a coherent sentence, he spoke In pain, but nevertheless portrayed a tinge of happiness and slight regret.

''Y-You were my only...friend. W-would have done t-this for no other!'' He shouted, the rest of his body disappearing. A few seconds passed by until a massive burst of magic shot up towards the heaven and travelled upward, lost to the stars In the exact same spot Yasu just was.

And that was not the worst: Discord turned Yasu Into a monster...a werewolf and forced him to fight, though by a slim margin: he broke free and sacrificed himself to save his friend. Those same words rung throughout his mind and threatened to destroy a bit more of his soul every time the thought came to him. For the time being, he would have done the exact same thing, but nonetheless wished for It to not happen at all. Purging the thought from his mind, he focused back on the sentence he was reading and bookmarked the page. Standing up out of the water and grabbing a towel to dry off, he sat back In the chair and let the sun braize his skin just right to get that golden complexion he wanted.

''You guys okay up here? It's hotter than those cupcakes Pinkie made when Twilight came to Ponyville.'' A tomboyish voice called. Looking over, It was the speedster pegasus who pulled off the legendary Sonic Rainboom: Rainbow Dash.

''Fine, I'm actually ready to come Inside: Celestia's sun Is nice and all, but I don't want to be freshly cooked bacon.'' Frank got up and proceeded Inside.

''Yea, bout ready to pack It In: been out here for 2 hours, so that's my excuse for the day.'' The drake followed after, leaving the human to his own devices.

''Aren't you coming In? We got Ice cream.'' She offered.

''I'll pass for now, just tell Pinkie to save me some: girl's a mess when It comes to sweets.'' He chuckled. Turning back and joining the rest of the girls, the human contemplated his life so far and what It meant to him.

Going In

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

He 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 freelance techniques and possibly become a weapon smith to help fortify the guard. Now at first, turned down the offer, he seemed to think that they are 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 informing him to be his duty as the future co-ruler of the New Lunar Republic, It was in his better mind to do this. So heading downstairs and obtaining some food for his 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?'' The human muffled through some toast.

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

''Name?''

''Valiant Barrier: a unicorn.'' She sipped her orange juice.

''Well, If we're doing this, can Frank, Iron Hammer, Xenia and Spike come along?'' The first four people came to mind.

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

''Yay! I get to hang out with master!'' The red panda exclaimed from the top of his head, munching on what appeared to be bamboo.

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

Some time later:

The human and his friends came across the same field where him and Blueblood had their sparring match, oh there's still a little bit of the indent left. Princess Luna had to take care of business so she decided to check up on the status of their training around nighttime. Being somewhat familiar with the layout, a group of 12 recruits stood in three rows of 4, all looking to 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 be Valiant.'' Spike pointed out as the sound of his voice boomed from a distance.

''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.''

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

''My weapon smith, apprentice, pet and best friend.'' He 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!''

Now that got the cadets standing upright.

''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. With that, the first thing to be taken care of was basic and simple weapon maintenance by Iron, Spike telling the cadets the benefits of being under a mentorship. Frank pretty much said whatever was on his mind which was talking about explosions or cliched things that none of the cadets understood. Then it finally came to the human's turn. Going over and having their complete attention, he spoke.

''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?'' 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.'' His words of wisdom reached a few cadets.

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

''Man, that was kinda fun, right?'' Frank handed the human a bottle of water and face towel.

Sitting down after taking a break, the initial 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 observed the cadets doing basic drills: push ups, endurance exercises, and even some hoof to hoof combat.

''They have potential, but they could stand to Improve their technique, kinda sloppy.'' The human found their drive to not be quite there.

''Second that.'' Frank added.

''They seem nice, I like them!'' Xenia ever was so enthusiastic from the human's shoulder.

Going to go for another round, the session was Interrupted by a guard 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, the sudden announcement had the human

''What's the matter?'' The doors to the throne room opened.

''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?'' Valiant 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 paced back and forth.

''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 guard next to them looked worried before he 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.

''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.'' The lunar princess implored.

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

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

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

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

''And me!''

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

''Sorry you two, but I'm more than positive that If you get hurt...Twilight and Fluttershy are going to kill me, no questions asked.'' The human patted both their heads.

''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.

''Master, master, I want to come too! I can help, oh please?'' Xenia cutely pawed his legs. At this point, he could not resist that cute little smile and aura of innocence. His resolve crumbling, he sighed and let them come.

''Fine, but you stick to me like glue, got It?'' His point emphasized by a little poke to both their chests.

''MMM-HMM!''

With that out of the way, the group went down to the armoury and got suited up for this Search and Rescue mission.

Right now, a steady pace was set out with Frank, Spike, Iron, Xenia, Valiant and the human 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 they set out and nothing really happened. Looking out the window, the subtle moonlight sky put any of my potential concerns at ease.

''So are we 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 the carriage to stop. Opening the door and stretching his muscles after that 3 hour trek left him slightly wound up. A dismantled carriage on its side told the human all of what he needed to.

''Nopony here, but I can figure whoever did this didn't mean for this to be a picnic otherwise these...yep. Dead bodies would not be here.'' He observed inside and saw three laid down forms, all slowly leaking blood and bodily functions spiraling out of control as the smell of defecation assaulted his nose. Seeing their faces locked with fear and surprise made the human make this a bit easier for him by closing their eyes.

Instead, a piece of parchment laid near one the wheels that Frank 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...''

What could that mean? Wait, does that mean-

''Take cover!'' The human's enhanced hearing detected some kind of rustling a few feet from him.

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

''Alright, seems these punks want a fight, so let's give It to em'.'' Valiant got the cadets ready. Taking his sword from its sheath, the human stepped forward.

''Come on out: I can hear you.'' He growled. Hearing silence for a few seconds, a figure slowly came from underneath the underbrush, a number of others coming from every direction the human could look. Unicorns, Pegasi, Earth Ponies, Zebras and a Griffon showed themselves.

''So you found us out: big whoop. Come on guys, lets take care of this quick.'' A unicorn rushed forward.

Dodging a buck Intended for the face, the human traded blows with an Earth pony until he slipped up and got him with a palm strike and knocked him down. Turning around and backhanding a Griffon and stabbing a Pegasus, he 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, Frank was going after more of a kickboxing style with his reinforced fighting gauntlets, boots, and elbow guards, 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 Earth Pony, narrowly avoiding the onslaught of bucks 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!'' The human complained, barely having room to breathe as my attention was shifted every few seconds.

Being too preoccupied with dodging this unicorn's 3 sword assault, he failed to see a length of rope wrap Itself around his wrist. Struggling to get if off, another did the same to his other and his legs.

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

''Shut It, ape!'' A griffon brought him down to his 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 his 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 smiled.

''Did you say Azure?'' The name caught him off guard.

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

''She did what?!'' A sword stopped him from advancing.

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

''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 would be too busy or too cowardly to show up.''

''Why would you do this? I, we trusted you and you do this to us?'' The human struggled to keep his thoughts In place.

''No Ill will was directly placed upon you.'' 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!'' Frank shouted.

''Poor, naive child: I already have: Do It.'' She looked to the unicorns. Before he could even get the word out, a blunt object struck the human across the head and knocked him to the ground. Feeling a sudden case of whiplash, the human struggled to keep his eyes open as he lay there. The last thing he registered before passing out was a kiss to his cheek and Azure's voice, having pity along with it.

''Too bad you just had to be kiss ups to Celestia and Luna, you would have made a fine mate.''

Stress, Friends, And Facts

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:

Luckily, 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.

Watch Out...You're It

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.