Princess and the Salamander

Chapters

Chapter One: Unexpected Savior
Chapter Two: Blacksmithing and Trouble
Chapter Three: Request and the Gala
Chapter Four: Fathers
Chapter Five: The Talent Show!
Chapter Six: Castle of Chaos
Chapter Seven: To War!
Chapter Eight: The Battle Begins
Chapter Nine: The Salamander
Chapter Ten: A Promise

Chapter One: Unexpected Savior

“But mooooom!” A little black alicorn filly whined, as she followed a lavender alicorn down a street in Ponyville. “I want to stay home and keep reading those books you started with, when you were a filly!”

The lavender alicorn smiled at her daughter, while she walked up to her. She looked at the teal eyes behind her glasses. “Nyx, I’m sorry but we have to go visit Auntie Rarity. After all, you need a dress for the Grand Galloping Gala coming up.” Her mother said, leaning down to nuzzle the smaller alicorn.

“But Auntie Rarity is going to put those silly dresses on me… They are too tight.” Nyx said, lowering her head in defeat.

The lavender alicorn smirked at her response, remembering the day she first met the unicorn Rarity. “Oh, don’t worry about it, dear. If you’re good, we’ll go by the book store and get you a new book.” She said, trying to convince Nyx to tolerate the visit. “Plus, Sweetie Belle will be there.”

Nyx face suddenly lit up with excitement. “Really? Yay! And you’re right, Sweetie Belle is fun to play with!” She said, bouncing around her mother, the two of them making their way to a rather decorated house, where a white unicorn, with a purple mane, was waiting for them.

“Twilight! Nyx! Darlings, welcome to my boutique! I must say, I am most excited to design a dress for the Princess of Friendship, and her adooooorable daughter.” The unicorn shouted, waving her hoof at the two of them.

“Thanks for doing this on such short notice, Rarity… I wanted Nyx to look her best for the Grand Galloping Gala.” Twilight said, hugging Rarity tightly.

“Anything for my dear friends, and their fillies, Twilight, dear.” Rarity said, looking down at the filly alicorn. “Are you ready, Nyx? I have the most gorgeous of dresses picked out and ready to be fitted for you.”

Nyx slowly nodded, ears dropping into her mane, seeming rather nervous at the event. “Y-Yes, Auntie Rarity.” She said, following Rarity inside, Twilight walking behind the two of them.

On a distant planet, where a terrible battle waged between the forces of Chaos, and a few brave Space Marines, things seemed to be dark until a group of Salamander Terminators took to the field, and lead their battle brothers into battle!

“With me, Sons of Vulkan! Into the Fires of Battle, and Unto the Anvil of War!” One particular Salamanders Terminator, armor decorated with the scales of the Salamanders on Nocturne and wielding both a thunder hammer with a storm shield. “Let us push back these Traitors, and send them back to their masters!”

The regular Space Marines, with Scouts, all cheered at their honored battle brother and charged alongside him! Crashing into a line of Word Bearer Chaos Space Marines. “With Brother Zu’hal, brothers! He leads the way!” A Salamanders Sergeant called out, before a regiment of Guardsmen came out into the charge, as well.

“The Salamanders answered our calls for help! Don’t let them fight this battle alone, Guardsmen!” A Commissar yelled, his Guardsmen all cheering and charging in with the demi gods.

Brother Zu’hal clashed into the Chaos Space Marines, swinging his mighty thunder hammer from side to side, crushing any traitor he saw. “Is that truly the best you have, Traitors!? In Vulkan’s name, I shall defeat every last one of you!” He called out, before crushing a Heretic under the hammer’s head.

Without warning, Zu’hal dodged a doombolt that was heading straight for his face, allowing it to crash into the ground behind him. The Salamander glared in the direction it came from, and saw a Sorcerer standing among his guards. “Is this all you can muster, Salamander? A few Space Marines, and some rag tag guardsmen? Truly, your Corpse Emperor has failed you.” The Apostle taunted, preparing another spell.

“Do not insult the God Emperor’s name, Traitor!” Zu’hal quickly charged into the Apostle’s guards, barrel into them and smashing through them like they were nothing. “I’ll crush you where you stand! This I swear!” He swung his thunder hammer towards the traitor, but missed when he backed away, still charging his spell and drawing a demonic power sword.

“It will be you who falls today, Salamander. Your soul will be a worthy offering to the Dark Gods.” The Sorcerer said, charging into the Terminator, in attempts to try and slash into a weak point in his armor but failed when the Terminator blocked his attack with the storm shield.

The two champions fought as if they were avatars of their deities, their weapons clashing with electrified power. The warriors of both side trying to keep the ground around them a perfect battlefield, creating a front line where the two were at its center. When the Sorcerer was able to push the Terminator back, with a spell, he was growling at the resilience of the Salamanders.

“Enough with this farce! I will end this now, with one fell swoop!” He called out, preparing a spell within his sword. The ground around him started to crack up, rocks floating in the air. Lightning striking the ground, giving off the feel of an extremely powerful spell being prepared. Those close to him, could hear a strange prayer being made to the Dark Gods.

Zu’hal suddenly charged the Sorcerer, mid cast. “I won’t allow you to pervert this world any further than your traitorous kind already has!” He bellowed, suddenly appearing in front of the Sorcerer, and brought his hammer down on to him.

By accident, the Sorcerer quickly pulled his sword up to parry the large hammer… When their weapons collided, a large amount of twisted energy, mixed with divine energy, started to crack and explode around the two. “You fool! What have you done!!!! Your actions have created a tear in reality!” The Sorcerer yelled, as their forms started to shift and pull themselves away from each other.

The Salamanders slammed the head of his hammer into the Sorcerer’s midsection…. Throwing all breath out of his next words. “If I die, and take you with me, then it will be a good death!” Zu’hal yelled, before they were both gone in a blink of an eye…. The Word Bearers, without their champion, now falling back at the face of the Salamanders… The Space Marines rallied at the sacrifice of their honored battle brother, who stuck true to the Promethean Cult’s teachings.

Twilight and Nyx slowly walked outside of Rarity’s boutique… The sound of thunder and flash of lightning made the two alicorns look up into the sky. “That’s strange… Rainbow Dash said there wouldn’t be any rain today…” Twilight said, noticing that the storm clouds had a strange purple color to them.

“Um… Mom… I don’t think those are rain clouds.” Nyx said, hiding under her mother.

“She’s right, Twilight! I didn’t cause this!” A blue Pegasus yelled out, flying up to her friend. “This is a freak storm, some of the other Pegasi are trying to quell it, but it’s refusing to listen to us.”

Twilight raised an eyebrow at her friend’s words. “If you didn’t cause this, Rainbow Dash, then what did?” She asked, looking up at the sky and saw something that made her jaw go slack.

Within the center of the cloud, a large silhouette of someone appeared. Before long, they could see the green body falling straight to the ground. “Get out of the way every pony!” Rainbow Dash yelled, quickly flying over and moving a group of ponies from the crash site before the person could hit, whoever it was made a massive hole in the ground, crackling sounds coming from inside the crater they made.

“Nyx, go and hide! Quickly.” Twilight said, floating up into the air, and facing her daughter.

“But… Mom, I want to help.” Nyx said, trying to fly up but her wings had to move a lot quicker than her mothers. “I can help!” She said, looking up at the older alicorn.

“It isn’t safe, dear… Go and hide until I say to come out, alright?” Twilight said, as the little alicorn nodded, flying over to a nearby building. She quickly sat down, and poked her head out from around the tower portion of the building, so she could watch what occurred.

Twilight and Rainbow Dash went over to the hole, lucky for them the others of their little group were in town and came to investigate the crash. “What in tarnation is going on? Big Mac and me were selling apples, when we heard a loud crash. Every pony alrigh’?” An orange Earth Pony asked, as she rushed up.

“Yeah! That bad noise made me ruin a perfectly good cupcake!” A Pink One screamed, freaking out over something so small.

A yellow Pegasus arrived, as Rarity made her way outside. “Y-Yeah… The animals at my home are all going crazy because of the sound.” The yellow Pegasus said, looking at the others.

“Every pony is alright, Apple Jack… But Pinkie Pie, Rarity, Fluttershy, get ready. I don’t know who this is, or what caused him to fall, but if he needs help, we have to aid him.” Twilight said, making her way over the crater, in the ground, and look inside. “U-Um… Are you alright in there?” She asked, barely making out something green and black at the bottom of it.

A pair of red eyes suddenly appeared inside. “That heretical traitor sent me to a Xenos planet!?” A deep, metallic, voice growled. “I’ll dispose of them, before hunting his hide down!” Before Twilight knew it, a behemoth of metal exploded from the crater it had made and attempted to smash his shield on to her.

The alicorn was too quick for the giant, and moved away from his reach. “Whoa! That’s a really big human!” She yelled, noticing the body structure and obvious armor around his body.

“What do you mean, Twilight? He seems like a normal human from the fairy tales.” Rainbow Dash said, ready to tackle into the attacker.

“Most Humans get up to six feet tall, rarely seven.” She explained, looking towards the metal giant, as he pulled himself out of the ground and showed the hammer in his right hand. “This guy is easily nine feet tall. Which means, he’s not normal.” The group prepared to fight, the moment the attacker’s eyes were on them.

“Hm? So you Equine Xenos aren’t like those cowardly Eldar…. Good, I need to vent my anger.” He growled out, stepping forward and actually making the ground shake with each step. “Ready when you six are.” He challenged, revealing the crackling energy around his hammer.

“You’re never ready for us, you big bully!” Pinkie Pie said, before her and Rainbow Dash charged towards the metal, aiming to try and tackle him back into the crater…. However, they were met with a metal wall, the giant not even budging an inch.

“Hm? That’s all you got? You aren’t cowardly like the Eldar, but you are rather weak like them…” He said, before trying to bring his hammer down on to Pinkie Pie, only for Rainbow Dash to quickly recover and get her friend out of the away in time. “Damn, they’re fast!” He blurted out, nearly toppling over. “And my armor has been over used from fighting that traitor…” He looked around, noticing that Twilight and Rarity suddenly shot a spell towards him! Causing the giant to falter in his steps…. Towards a certain building.

“I’m gonna teach ya a lesson yer never gonna forget, big fella!” Apple Jack yelled, rushing up to the giant, quickly turning around and prepared to kick him hard as she could. When the giant noticed the orange pony, it was already too late! She slammed her back hooves right into his stomach and sent him flying straight towards the building!

The metal giant slammed through the wall, causing the building to become unstable! It was then that Twilight noticed Nyx was behind that building, and it was starting to collapse in her direction. “Nyx! Run!” She called out, but noticed a piece of the building fell on to her hoof.

“I-I’m stuck! Mom, help!” She called out, as the building was starting to fall towards the ground. “MOM!” She screamed.

“NYX!” Twilight yelled, before a large shadow suddenly appeared around the little alicorn, and the building crashed down, kicking up dust and covering what had happened. “My baby!” Twilight flew straight over to the building, starting to dig through the pieces of the building, the others joining in the search.

“W-Where did the big guy go!?” Rainbow Dash yelled, only seeing his hammer and shield off to the side.

“Who cares about that varmint!? We got to see if Nyx is alrigh’!” Apple Jack yelled, while helping dig through the rocks.

When they pulled away enough of the building, Twilight saw a green metal underneath one, before being forced to back away! The metal giant suddenly exploded from the rubble, both of his hands covering something within them. His breathing was rough, and his steps seemed a bit off, like he was hurt. Twilight just looked up at him, laying on her back from the surprise, when the red eyes just looked at her.

“Get away from Twilight!” Rainbow Dash yelled, before Twilight quickly got up and in front of her.

The alicorn flew up to him, hearing his breathing, and just looked at his red eyes. “W-Where is my baby?” She asked, on the verge of tears.

The metal giant just stared back at her, before looking down at his hands… He opened them, and revealed the small alicorn filly, unharmed, within them. “A… Son of Vulkan… Is sworn to protect the innocent, no matter who they are.” His metallic voice said, before the filly opened her eyes and saw her mother floating above her.

“Mommy!” She yelled, quickly flying up and hugging Twilight, nuzzling into the older alicorn’s chest.

Twilight was at a loss for words, she couldn’t believe what had just happened… The metal giant was attacking them, and when her daughter was in danger, instead of fighting further... He saved her. She looked up at him, a smile slowly forming on to her face. “T-Thank you… And I’m sorry that we attacked you.” She admitted, feeling like she should.

He tilted his head, and looked around, noticing the damage that their little fight had caused. “No… It is I who should be sorry.” He returned his red gaze to Twilight. “It seems, in my anger after fighting a traitor, I caused some damage to your home.” He reached up, and grabbed hold of his helmet. With a hiss, he slowly removed it, and revealed the char coal skin and deep red eyes underneath. “To make up for my anger, I shall help repair the damage I caused.”

“Wait… What!? You were just fighting us, now you are wanting to help us rebuild?” Rainbow Dash asked, completely confused by what he said.

He looked at the blue Pegasus, “Yes… It happens with those within the Salamanders… After all, our Chapter was nearly decimated by the traitor legions, and our Primarch taken from us by them. So… When we fight them, we sort of go into a blind rage.” He looked around again, assessing the damage done. “Looks like a full day’s work, if I have the right tools to use.” He turned to the lavender pony, who was still holding her child. “I am Brother Zu’hal, Terminator of the Salamanders. Please, allow me to make up for my transgression against you.”

Twilight looked at him, and noticed the scales he was wearing around his armor, then the mark he bore on his left shoulder. “Um… Sure, every hoof would be a great help, but… Avoid my assistant. Your trophies may scare him.” Twilight said, nodding to Zu’hal.

The Terminator tilted his head at the statement. “Why would my trophies scare him?” He asked, looking at the Salamander skins adorning his armor, along with their skulls.

“Because he’s a baby dragon, and… You’re wearing what seems like dragon skins.” Twilight answered, making the Salamander look up and realize why it would now.

“Ah…That would make sense.” He walked over and grabbed his hammer and shield, mag locking them to his armor. “Now then, where are the tools I can use to help rebuild? I rather get started.” He asked.

Twilight smiled, now holding Nyx in her hooves, before her horn suddenly started to glow. Within seconds, a few tools suddenly floated over to the Salamander, and were presented to him. “Will these do?” She asked.

Zu’hal opened both hands, and eyed the tools… Revealing, compared to his armor, they were rather small. “Um… If I am to use these, I need to get out of my Terminator armor.” He said, looking around for a second. “Which… I’ll need help with, and some clothes to put on afterwards.”

The moment the giant said “needed clothes” Rarity was right on top of him with a strange look in her eyes. “Did you just say you needed clothes!? My, my, my! I think I can help with that situation, dear! Just come with me to my boutique, there we can get that armor off of you, and get you some clothes fitted.” Up close to him now, she noticed the craftsmanship of his armor, and how the trophies complimented it. “I must say… You have quite the taste, and style. I think we’ll get along great.” She said, before her horn glowed and the giant was being pulled away.

Zu’hal looked around, as the others were starting to laugh at him. “Um… Is this a good thing or a bad thing?” He asked, now starting to feel his entire armor starting to be pulled after the white unicorn.

Chapter Two: Blacksmithing and Trouble

Chapter Two: Blacksmithing and Trouble

The Mane Six waited outside of Rarity’s home, after Twilight took Nyx home to rest after her near death experience, while the unicorn worked her magic on the metal giant. When around two hours passed, Rarity opened her doors, with a proud look on her face.

“Ladies! I present to you, the new and improved, Zu’hal!” She moved out of the way, allowing Zu’hal to walk out of her boutique.

He was wearing strange black baggie pants, which came up to where they seemed more like half overalls. His top was a dark green vest, matching his armor, while it had the symbol of a dragon sewn over his left chest. “…. She tried another outfit but I voiced my opinion rather thoroughly.” Zu’hal said… But what caught everyone’s attention, wasn’t the basic outfit Rarity decided to go with… But the fact his entire skin color was charcoal black. His body, from what Twilight remembered from the human world, was extremely well toned by comparison.

“The measurements were mostly the problem, never have I worked with such… Definition.” Rarity said, thinking for a moment and actually making Zu’hal blush a bit. “I’ll have to design more outfits for him, later.”

“I… Think this one will do for now.” Zu’hal said, keeping his eyes away from the white unicorn’s own strange gaze that made him feel really uncomfortable. “Now then! Time for me to get to work on that building!” He said, Twilight having the tools float up to him, the giant taking them and walking towards the very building he destroyed during their battle.

Twilight leaned in, so she could whisper to Rarity. “Where… Is his armor?” She asked, watching as the giant was sizing the building up in the distance.

Rarity rolled her eyes. “Pah-lease, Twilight. I have to work on it as well, the paint has been damaged, the symbol looks like it was in a brawl with some Timberwolf, and the chest piece looks like a dragon breathed on to it.” She gave a sigh, eyeing the giant in the distance as well. “I can’t wait to make him seem like the jewel of Ponyville, making us seem like the greatest town in all of Equestria.”

“Uh… Rarity, we don’t know how long he’ll be staying here.” Twilight reminded, looking to the daydreaming unicorn.

The statement suddenly broke her concentration. “Then I best get to work! Ta ta, girls!” Rarity said, going back into her boutique.

The group watched, as Zu’hal tap his chin. Twilight slowly walked up to the giant, looking up at him. “What are you pondering, um… Brother Zu’hal?” She asked him, breaking the Salamander’s concentration.

“Hm? Oh, how I can improve this building some…. Granted, if I restored it to the way it was, with a picture of it, I can get it done in one day. However, I was thinking of making it more sturdy, allowing it to take a harder hit.” He answered, looking at the alicorn.

“It is getting late, though… Shouldn’t you wait until tomorrow morning?” She asked, tilting her head while also thinking of where he could possibly stay.

“Oh, that isn’t a problem, I have another day and a half before I need any sleep.” Zu’hal said, walking up to where the tower fell, feeling the stone itself. “Space Marines can stay up for a whole week without sleep.” He grabbed some tools and went straight to work on the building, a smile on his face.

“A-A week!? How is that even possible? I’ve seen Humans that could barely go a single day without sleep.” Twilight asked, awe struck at how long Zu’hal was able to stay awake.

“We are engineered to withstand such things. Space Marines are designed to help lead mortal men through battles, like demi gods of war. So, to ensure this, we need to withstand long periods of time without sleep, and keep fighting.” Zu’hal explained, taking a stone at a time, recreating the stones that were broken, with new ones. “Or, in this case, get a damaged building rebuilt in a day.”

“But how can you rebuild this portion of the house? Usually, this will take us ponies around a week.” Twilight asked, watching as the warrior worked.

“Another trivial matter… I’m used to building hasty fortification within an hour, after landing on to a battlefield… Then have a fully functional metal fortification ready within a week.” He looked back at her. “You have any idea how hard it is to set up a trench and bunker by hand?” He asked.

Twilight slowly shook her head, “I… Never had to.” She said, eyes staying wide.

“It is a difficult thing to do. Granted, if I had the proper building equipment…” He went back to setting the stones right, even going inside to reset a few fallen support beams. “I would have his done within under thirty minutes.”

“I never saw any of that technology when I went to the human world!” Twilight said, becoming extremely interested. “They were just like us, granted their buildings were more suited to them and what not. But their earth was still interesting.”

That statement made Zu’hal suddenly stop. “E-Earth?” He said, going wide eyed at the name.

“Yeah… Isn’t that what you call your world?” She asked, the warrior suddenly slouching.

“Holy Terra hasn’t been called that in over thirty five thousand years.” He turned to face her, a serious look. “Not to mention, the way things were ran in that time, was nothing like this….. I fear that I may have…” He instantly went back to work.

“You may have what, Brother Zu’hal?” Twilight asked, becoming concerned about the giant now.

“I remember some Adeptus Mechanicus talking about alternate realities… Where things happen differently.” He said, putting up one of the support beams, and hammering a few bolts to keep it in place. “At first, I thought I arrived on a different world, full of xenos. But, with what you just said…”

Twilight slowly listening, realizing what the conclusion that Zu’hal had come to. “You may have… Entered one of those realities….” She said, eyes wide. “H-How did it happen, if you don’t mind me asking?”

Zu’hal suddenly stopped, looking up at the sky. “To be honest, where I am from? There is no peace, there is only war…. I was on a battlefield, leading my battle brothers, and the world’s guardsmen, into battle against a hated traitor legion.” He walked over to the wall, and started to work again. “I did battle with a twisted sorcerer, who prayed to the Chaos Gods, evil daemon gods that want nothing more than the galaxy to burn. When he was preparing a spell to destroy me, and my brothers, I interrupted it by clashing my hammer against his sword. The opposite powers didn’t like each other too well, and this was the result.”

His explanation caught her off guard, Twilight never thought Magic could be turned to such evil deeds. “I-I’m guessing… Magic isn’t liked where you’re from?” She asked, watching the warrior work.

“No… It really isn’t. After all, there is a Chaos God of Sorcerery.” Zu’hal answered.

“But magic is used for good here… Especially the Magic of Friendship.” Twilight noted, flying over to him. “I’m also the representative of Magic, when it comes down the Spirits of Harmony… Well, I was.” Twilight looked off to her left, making Zu’hal stop.

“Did something happen?” He asked, becoming curious as to how this world worked.

“There was an incident, me and my friends had to give up our elements, which ended with us losing those.” She said, rubbing her right side. “But when an evil being, known as Tirek, came… We defeated him when we opened a chest that contained the very power of friendship.” She went on, making Zu’hal smile.

“Of course…” He said, going back to work. “Classic good versus evil, and good triumphs.” Zu’hal said, placing few stones down.

“What is that supposed to mean?” Twilight asked.

“In my reality… The forces of good don’t always win.” Zu’hal simply said, this made Twilight stop herself, and remained quiet for a few moments.

“I-I’m going to… Check on Nyx.” She said, getting ready to fly away.

“Let me know if she’s ok? Her condition is was my fault.” Zu’hal asked, putting up another support beam.

“I-I will.” Twilight said, surprised at the humility that came from him… From what she remembers in books, beings like him were often less concerned about lesser beings… So, she flew off, as she said, back to her castle.

By the afternoon, of the next day, Zu’hal made good on his promise. The building was restored to the way it was, before he had wrecked it. When the giant asked if he could bed down somewhere, that had a smithy, everyone tried to get him to stay with him, but Twilight said that it would make more sense if he stayed at her castle. Rarity arranged for his armor to be sent straight to the castle’s armory.

“…. You stay at a castle? Are you a royal or something?” Zu’hal asked, following Twilight to her castle.

“Ehm… You can say that….” She said, floating next to the large giant, while he pulled the chart that carried his armor. “I’m kind of… A Princess of Equestria.”

The moment he heard that, Zu’hal suddenly stopped. “You’re… A what?” He asked, going wide eyed.

“A… Princess?” She said, feeling embarrassed about not telling him before.

“You mean… That whole time… I was fighting, and talking nonchalantly, with a Princess…” He said, face palming his forehead. “Well then, I feel stupider then a grox.”

“Whoa, now… Don’t go treating me like royalty! I only do it during formal occasions!” Twilight said, making Zu’hal raise an eyebrow. “I try to convince everyone not to really call me ‘Princess Twilight’ anyways. It feels weird, since I didn’t start that way. Wait, what is a grox?” She said, before going in depth about how she got the title, while taking Zu’hal to the castle. Allowing Zu’hal to also explain what a grox is, too.

After they arrived, Zu’hal was soon in an uproar about how empty her armory was. Even though he wasn’t of their world, nor really knew of their hierarchy, something inside of him hated the fact she had no armor, in case of invasion. He also made mention of having no real Royal Guard….

Before Twilight could retort his uproar, he went straight to the blacksmith wing of her castle, and got to work. The sounds of hammer hitting metal filling the nearby corridors.

“Twi? What is that sound?” A young voice asked, as a baby dragon walked up to his friend.

“Uh… Spike… It seems we’ll be having a guest. One you might want to stay away from.” She said, wanting to try and break the ice early for the small dragon.

“Why? A new friend is still a new friend.” He said, about to go and talk with the guest, but was stopped by Twilight.

“Well… The reason is… When he arrived, his armor had… The skins of Dragons, and even had the head of one on his belt.” She blurted out, feeling it wouldn’t help to dance around the matter. She soon regretted that…

“He… He… He had w-what on his armor…” The baby dragon soon fainted at the thought of seeing someone dressed in such things.

Oh boy… This’ll be fun to explain. She thought, before carrying the baby dragon off.

That night, Zu’hal had made five sets of battle ready armor. It wasn’t his best work, and all he had to work off of was a single set of base armor left in the armory. He used it as a drawing board, to help him decide the size of the next few. The armor will withstand the roar of battle, at the very least.

When he was working on the body portion of armor, he heard something behind him. “I hear you back there….” He said, as a quiet ‘eep’ sounded, and they hid behind a suit of finished armor. “Come out, no use in hiding.”

Nyx slowly walked out from behind the suit of armor, eyeing the black skinned warrior, as he stopped working on the armor. “U-Um… Hi...”

He just raised an eyebrow, before placing the hammer down, turning to face the filly, and smiled. “Greetings, little one… How are you feeling? I was concerned that harm came to you, after I was able to pull you from the rubble.”

Nyx jumped a little bit, hearing his rough voice and started to shake. “I… Um… I wanted to thank you, for saving me.” She said, nervously. Her mother told her about humans before, but did also tell her that this stranger wasn’t a normal human.

Zu’hal just looked at her, and suddenly frowned, before going back to work on the armor. “Please… Don’t thank me, little one.” He said, hammering away at the piece. “You wouldn’t have been in that situation, if it wasn’t for me.”

Nyx looked up at him, surprised he said that. “W-What? But… You saved me afterwards, didn’t that make up for it?” She asked, using her wings to flutter herself up beside him. “I mean, you did start that fight with my mom and aunts… But if it wasn’t for you, that building would have crushed me.” She stated, making Zu’hal stop.

“Yes… I know this, but still. I was the cause of that.” He said, placing the hammer down, realizing he shouldn’t draw the argument out. “Tell me, what is your name little one?” He asked, as she floated on to the nearby table.

“Um… I’m Nyx. My mom is Princess Twilight.” She said, slowly sitting down, before her glasses suddenly fell down, her horn started to glow before magic pushed them back up.

“Oh? Interesting. So, what brings you to the smithy?” He asked, walking over to her. “I highly doubt wanting to say thank you created that, you were nervous of me even noticing you.”

She nodded, looking up at the giant. “Um… I was curious… As to what you’re doing?” She asked, looking at the armor.

Zu’hal looked at it as well, before giving a soft smile. “It is known as the art of smithing. Or, blacksmithing.” He walked over to it, allowing the filly to float over and join him. “Before you ask, it isn’t just for war or battle… Blacksmithing can be used to create many things, including horseshoes.” He said, pointing at Nyx’s hooves.

“R-Really?” She asked, smiling at him.

This made Zu’hal chuckle a bit, he could tell learning was something this filly loved to do. “Yes. My armor, as you saw, is very old. Passed down from Space Marine to Space Marine, but looks brand new because every Salamander is an expert Blacksmith. We also take pride in our own works.” He said, slowly starting to work on the armor. “Would you like for me to teach you?” He asked, the filly nodded. “Alright then… First thing to learn.”

Zu’hal started to go into depth about how to blacksmith, stopping his work on the armor and getting out a sheet of metal for Nyx to work on. He explained that a fine piece of blacksmithing could take several months, or even a year, to do. It all depend on how detail the forger wanted to be.

Unknown to the two of them, Twilight was just outside of the door… Smiling at how her daughter was actually warming up to the giant warrior, and his knowledge of a rather difficult art. When Nyx started to try her hand, she watched anxiously as she swung the hammer. When it was too hard, Twilight was tempted to spring forward and catch the hammer from hitting her daughter, but Zu’hal did so for her… He never left Nyx’s side, making sure she was both concentrating and safe.

At some point, during the lessons, Nyx had fallen asleep, where Twilight made herself known to Zu’hal, and took Nyx to her bedroom… Thanking the warrior for showing her daughter a rather useful skill, in which he simply gave a nod to her, saying it was his pleasure to teach such things.

Far away, on top of a glacier outside of the Crystal Empire, a red armored sorcerer was moving across the ice, looking around the barren wasteland. He shivered some, before whispering a spell to ignite a flame, keeping himself warm.

As he was walking, the sorcerer came across a broken red horn, eyeing it carefully, before reaching down, and picking the object up “What is this? Some artifact of the Dark Gods?” He asked himself, smiling at the power that was just dwelling within it. “No, something else entirely…. I can sense the essence of something powerful, and old.” He gave an evil chuckle at what he found…. The demonic insignia of the Word Bearers Legion on his left shoulder pa

Chapter Three: Request and the Gala

Chapter Three: Request and the Gala

The day before Nyx’s first Grand Galloping Gala, Twilight was in a hysteria about something. Hearing her panicking, Zu’hal slowly emerged from the blacksmithing wing. During the time between his arrival and then, he had gotten enough sleep to make him effective once more. However, the panic of his host, was enough to have him pull away from his work.

“Oh no… Oh no… What are we going to do… What are we going to do…?” She continuously said, floating back and forth as Spike tried to calm her down.

“Twilight… Clam down, I’m sure you’ll figure out something.” The baby dragon said.

“Spike! This isn’t something a mere spell could fix, this is something I have to find!” She said, holding her hooves up and against her head.

Strangely enough, Spike didn’t hear the large Salamander right behind him. “Um… Might I ask what exactly is going on?” He asked, startling the young dragon, and falling to the ground.

This was truly the first time Spike had seen the giant, and was actually intimidated by him. “T-Twi was told that all royals… Are to have a Royal Guard with them. She doesn’t have a certain Captain or anything, so…” Spike tried to explain, before Twilight flew up.

“Nyx and I will look like fools in front of the other Princesses and the Royalty of Equestria!” She exclaimed, seeming like she was ready to pull out her mane.

Zu’hal looked down at Spike with a confused look. “Guessing… She is a perfectionist?” He asked, the baby dragon nodding, still having a scared look on his face. “And lighten up, little one… Just because I have the skin that looks like your kin, doesn’t mean it is one.” He explained, patting the baby dragon’s head. “A Salamander is something completely different. It is a dangerous creature that hunted the lands of my homeworld. It is a sacred rite to hunt one and prove one’s strength…. In fact, wearing the skin and skull of one is quite the honor.” He explained, Spike still rather intimidated, but relieved. Zu’hal looked back up at the frantic Twilight. “So… You need an Honor Guard, correct?”

“Yes! I have to have one, before tomorrow night! And there is no time to do so!” Twilight said, falling to the ground, and covering her face with her hooves.

“….. Well, I do have experience of being an Honor Guard member.” Zu’hal said, making Twilight stop her panicking.

“Um… Wrong answer.” Spike whispered, making Zu’hal glance at him for a second, before finding out why it was.

Twilight flew up straight to his face, a mere inch away. “Really!? Zu’hal, can you please, please, please, come with us to the Grand Galloping Gala!!” She said, extremely excited at the apparent information.

Zu’hal was wide eyed at the request, backing his head away from Twilight some. “Uh… Sure? If you have a standard, or anything like that, I could also mount it on to my armor.” He explained, tilting his head. “Though, I’ll also have to dress the armor in formal wear of the Salamanders and the Imperium… Which also means I have to place Purity Seals on to my armor, telling the deeds and battles I have been a part of.”

Twilight suddenly hugged his thick neck, making Zu’hal choke a bit. “Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!” She repeated nuzzling against his rather rough skin.

“Uh… Any… Time…” He was able to say, before Twilight finally let go of his neck. “Just let me get to work, and I still require a standard for you. I’ll just mag lock the thunder hammer to my armor, carry the shield and standard in my hands.” He explained, Twilight nodding rapidly.

“Oh, Rarity has to get both Nyx and me a dress to match your armor! Again, thank you, Zu’hal!” She shouted, before flying to grab her daughter from her studies.

“….. She wasn’t kidding when she said you’re actually a nice guy.” Spike said, looking up at him.

The comment made Zu’hal smirk a bit. “Yeah… Say, I know it’ll be hard for you, but when I finish with the seals and formality additions to my armor, want to help me put it on? It is rather difficult on one’s own.”

Spike looked up at him, pointing at himself. “You want me… To help you with the armor?” He asked, Zu’hal giving a nod. “O-Of course! Though, I don’t know how much help I’ll be… If you haven’t noticed, I’m a bit small.” He held up his hands, showing how it contrasted with Zu’hal’s larger body.

“An easy fix… I’ll hold the armor in place, all you need do is simply get it attached.” Zu’hal explained, the baby dragon nodding in agreement.

So, while the mares were out getting new dresses fitted, Nyx complaining the whole time about having another dress made, Zu’hal and Spike started to work on his armor. The seals, Spike noticed, looked like strange parchment being placed on to the armor itself, hot wax pinning them to the metal. Each one had depicted great deeds performed by Zu’hal…. One was when he slayed a great Salamander as a Scout, one that killed five others before he hunted it. There was another telling how he earned his Terminator Honors, with around two hundred years of combat experience and having helped stopped a full on assault by a group known as the World Eaters, where he was the only surviving member of his squad… Still holding out on the position until reinforcements arrived.

“Wow, Zu’hal…. You did all of these deeds?” Spike asked, examining each purity seal, and their tales.

“Yes, and before you ask, only the great deeds were placed. I have around two hundred years of service, plus around ten years as a full fledge scout. So, you can imagine the things I’ve done.” Zu’hal answered, working on another purity seal.

“What is that one about?” Spike asked, jumping to try and see what he was writing. “Some grand deed to earn as the final seal?”

“Actually, no… This purity seal is for a deed I swear to do at this…. ‘Grand Galloping Gala’ Twilight and Nyx are attending.” He moved his chair to where he can show the young dragon. “Purity Seals aren’t just for great deeds, but also for deeds I intend to do.”

Spike eyed the long strip of parchment, and began to read it. “So long as I stand as their Honor Guard, no harm shall befall Princess Twilight, or her daughter Princess Nyx. I swear in Vulkan’s name, and on the Golden Throne. If a threat arises, they shall meet both my hammer and shield, before they reach the two Princesses. Willingly, I shall give my life, in order for them to escape.” Spike went wide eyed at the purity seal. “Are all um... ‘Salamanders’ willing to give up their lives for others, with such ease?” He asked, looking up at the giant.

“Yes… It is part of the Promethean Code. Our Gene-Father was also the same way. Vulkan believed in self-sacrifice for the greater good of things, which included throwing himself in front of us to prevent any death of his sons.” Zu’hal explained, before walking over and sealing the purity seal over the eagle aquila.

“Wow… Mind telling me about this Vulkan? I mean, he sounds like my kind of warrior!” He chuckled, making Zu’hal chuckle a bit.

“Well… First off, out of all the Primarchs, the eighteen found, Vulkan was the tallest of them all. Despite his own strength, though, he was also the most gentle. Understanding the most humane way of doing things, even to his enemies.” Zu’hal started to explain, the baby dragon becoming wide eyed with each feat the mythical Primarch had done in the past.

When he ended the stories, Spike was awe struck by the now legendary, in his eyes, Primarch. He looked upon Zu’hal, and imagined how this Vulkan would have actually looked, since all Salamanders carried his genes within them. But, despite his thoughts, it was time for Zu’hal to put his armor on… And piece by piece, Spike helped the giant put on his armor, making even more so. Until it was only his helmet left, which went on last and the eyes lit up as it activated. “So… How does it look?” He asked, holding the shield up and revealing the purity seals around his armor.

“You look awesome, Zu’hal!” Spike said, ignoring the Salamander scales and head mounted around the armor. The scales that went over his shoulder pad, actually made it seem like Zu’hal had a slight cape going around him, which made the look of intimidation even better. “What is it like… Wearing that armor?” He asked.

“Somewhat restricting. However, you’ll find no better armor on the battlefield. I have a three sixty field of vision; my armor also can take a much greater beating. While I do move slightly slower than other Space Marines, I can act as moveable cover for them.” He chuckled a bit, “Basically? I’m a Space Marine Tank.”

Spike nodded, understanding what he meant by that comment. When they heard Twilight calling for them, he quickly hopped off the bench. “Oh! Twilight and Nyx are back! I bet Rarity made a banner for you to carry.”

“Then let us not keep them waiting.” Zu’hal said, starting to move forward in his armor, Spike in toe.

Like they thought, Twilight had brought a banner with their new dresses. It was on a royal standard pike, with her cutie mark at its center, while the main part of it was the same lavender as Twilight’s coat. However, there were two streamer banners flanking it, with the top portion of it being dark green and the bottom being black, the Salamanders insignia on the center of it. Twilight asked for them to wait where they were, so the two mares could put on their dresses, then make their way to the train station.

Zu’hal and Spike nodded, waiting at the castle’s doors, the banner in Zu’hal’s large hand. What they didn’t expect, was it would take the two of them another two hours before they came back down. This gave Spike more time to ask about the Salamanders Chapter and the creatures they were named after. His eyes grew even wider, the moment he found out that these Salamanders had no wings, like him! Yet were still able to defeat strong opponents.

After Twilight and Nyx finally came back, they were wearing dark green dresses with black outlines around them. Their manes were up, and neatly brushed, almost like they were truly ready for the Grand Galloping Gala right here in Twilight’s own castle. “Shall we boys?” She asked, the two of them nodding, allowing Twilight and Nyx to lead them out the castle doors.

When they passed through Ponyville, the whole town was awe struck at their Princess and her daughter, being escorted by the heavily armored giant that mistook them for enemies some days before hand. However, they couldn’t help but feel pride seeing their Princesses guarded by something so powerful, they also noticed Spike puffing out his chest and walking alongside the Honor Guard. Some ponies even tried to get close enough, to read the papers streaming down from Zu’hal’s armor, but weren’t able to get the chance to do so.

At the train station, Twilight’s friends were waiting for her, all in their own dresses and outfits, waiting for the train arrived.

“Oh my gosh! Twilight, you look incredible!” Pinkie Pie chanted, bouncing up and down.

“No kidding, Twilight! You and Rarity did well this time!” Rainbow Dash said, before eyeing the dress colors even further. “Um… Though I do wonder, why green and black? I thought your color was purple?’

Twilight giggled, before motioning to Zu’hal. “Because he’s going to be my Honor Guard this year. Since we can’t really change the color of his armor, I decided both Nyx and I will wear dresses matching it.” She explained, making the group nod.

“I must say, it was quite the difficulty making those two dresses on such short notice, but I feel that it is my greatest work yet!” Rarity boasted, smirking at her handiwork, her own dress was a combination of a rather flashy purple and white, complimenting herself.

While they were talking, Zu’hal watched as Nyx was talking with three other fillies, who were also dressed for the occasion. Due to his enhanced hearing, he could hear how they were commenting the young alicorn and smiled. When Nyx mentioned how she was also learning how to “smith” from their Honor Guard, Zu’hal could hear the pride in her words.

This continued on, until the train slowly rolled in and stopped at the station, the conductor walking out and shouting. “All aboard, for Canterlot!” The group nodded, as they started to board the train. But when Zu’hal was preparing to board, the conductor stopped him. “U-Um… Sir? You’re a bit big to enter the train, don’t you think?” He said, feeling intimidated by the emotionless helmet.

“Oh, he is alright, Conductor. Zu’hal is my Honor Guard for the Gala.” Twilight said, looking back at the conductor.

“I can tell, Princess, but he might not be able to fit inside… That is my problem.” The conductor said.

“An easy fix, actually.” Zu’hal said, before rolling up Twilight’s banner, handing it to the ones inside, and climbing on top of the train. Just like he thought, it was able to support his weight, and he latched down on to the front of said cart. “There…. I’ll be able to fit like this, correct?” He asked the conductor.

“I-I guess… The overheads were designed to handle larger trains than this, and you don’t come close to a supply train’s height up there.” The conductor said, before rushing inside, not trying to show he didn’t want to upset the large guardian.

The train ride took some time, but the group arrived at Canterlot in no time what so ever. A full Royal Guard unit ready to escort them, but all backed away the moment Zu’hal jumped from the top of their train, eyeing each one. When Twilight walked out, he instantly went into his Honor Guard station and saluted the Princess and her daughter, taking the banner and unrolling the banner to show everyone there. He followed behind the Princesses, the others right behind the mighty guardian.

A wide grin slowly appeared on Twilight’s face, when she could hear the citizens of Canterlot talking about her Honor Guard and how he was the most impressive thus far. There was one comment that nearly made her jump for joy, a mare saying to her husband. “If anyone attacks the Gala, they will be in for a big surprise with that behemoth standing watch over Princess Twilight and Princess Nyx.”

Her husband nodded, his eyes wide at the weapon that was at the warrior’s side. “Judging by what he has, I really think they’ll have a bad day the moment that hammer collides with them… I don’t even think a rampaging herd of Buffalo would be able to push him out of the way… Let alone withstand a hit from him.”

There were even comments about the papers on his armor, some wondering what they were, and those able to read them blurted out to the others that Zu’hal was some sort of champion of hundreds of battles. “It seems Princess Twilight was able to bring an army of one to the Gala… Impressive, if one must say.”

Nyx could hear them too, but she wasn’t so excited. She was starting to become intimidated by all the looks. Twilight noticed, and quickly stopped to figure out what was wrong… But to her surprise, Zu’hal made a suggestion she didn’t expect.

He placed his shield against his armor, it instantly locking into place before lifting Nyx into his left hand. She instantly got a large smile, as the warrior marched behind Twilight, Nyx waving at everyone from the protect grasp of the Honor Guard.

This action made everyone gasp at how gentle the warrior could actually be.

When the group arrived to the Canterlot Castle, Celestia and Luna were awaiting the youngest Princess, and got a surprise to what she brought with her as an Honor Guard. Zu’hal lowered his arm down, so Nyx could jump off and hug her two aunts tightly, while he redrew his shield and continued to hold his position as an Honor Guard.

“Twilight… Who is this… Warrior you’ve brought with you?” Celestia asked, after hugging her niece. She just eyed the warrior, noticing the repaired parts of his armor and the fact it was purposely repaired for the occasion.

“Oh, Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, I would like you to meet my Honor Guard… Brother Zu’hal, Terminator of the Salamanders Chapter.” Twilight said, walking over to the giant, who used the banner to give a simple salute the best he could. “He…. Was sent to our world by accident, and after a tussle, realized we weren’t what he was fighting before. To make up for it, he actually repaired the damage to Ponyville, before staying with Nyx and me at our Castle… When I needed an Honor Guard, he offered his services.”

Zu’hal nodded, stepping forward. “She is correct… I have experience being an Honor Guard within my Chapter. Such formalities are familiar to me.” He said, the two Princesses nodding, before looking to the Scribe, who quickly wrote down the needed information.

“Alright… They’ll announce you both, when you enter, properly.” Celestia said, looking towards Zu’hal. “And thank you, Brother Zu’hal, for being the bigger person, and help repair Ponyville.” She knew he was human, despite being so large, and had to go with the proper customs.

“To be honest, Princess Celestia, I was honor bound to help. I caused the damage, so I alone was the one to repair it. I also helped fill Princess Twilight’s armory with new armor for when she finally has a Royal Guard of her own.” Zu’hal said, respectfully.

Celestia nodded again, hearing his words. “The kindness and humility you have shown, does your… Uh… ‘Chapter’ good, Brother Zu’hal. Now, please, enjoy the Gala.” She said, with a smile, the group moving in as the Scribe rushed a head of them.

When they entered, the Royal Announcer stood tall and shouted out their titles and presence. “Now entering! Princess Twilight. Her daughter, Princess Nyx. Escorted by their Honor Guard, Brother Zu’hal, Terminator of the Salamanders Chapter!” Everyone’s eyes suddenly looked to see the Princesses, with a towering guardian right behind them, bearing Twilight’s banner. There was awe struck at their presence, especially due to their guardian once more.

When Twilight and Nyx made it to the bottom of the stairs, a familiar pink alicorn, with an armored white unicorn walked up to them. “Twily! Nyxi! It is so good to see the two of you again!” The unicorn said, hugging Twilight, before hugging Nyx.

“Uncle Shining! It is good to see you!” Nyx giggled being picked up by her uncle, with magic.

The pink alicorn smiled, as she hugged Twilight. “I haven’t seen you in ages, Twilight! How have you been?” She asked, smiling at the younger Princess.

“I’ve been fine, Cadence, and it is good to see you again too!” She said, hugging her former foalsitter tightly before letting go. “How is the Crystal Empire?”

“Still the same, no trouble what so ever.” Cadence said, smiling, before looking up at their Honor Guard. “So… Who is your protector?” She asked, the warrior giving a nod.

“Brother Zu’hal, Terminator of the Salamanders. Princess Twilight needed a protector for herself and for Princess Nyx. Since I am staying at their castle, until I am able to find out how to return to my brothers, I decided to offer my assistance. Being a Terminator, isn’t just the fact I am an Elite Warrior, it also means I must be an Honor Guard for some situations.” He held the banner off to the side, looking down at the alicorn addressing him. “So, naturally, I got my armor ready for the occasion.”

Cadence nodded, as Shining gently put Nyx down. It was Cadence’s turn to hug their niece, while he addressed the warrior. “What are these parchments on your armor?” He simply asked.

“Purity Seals, sir. Each telling my past deeds, except for the one I have placed on my armor’s aquila. That one explains my intentions while attending the Gala.” Zu’hal explained trying to remain formal within the Gala.

Shining Armor leaned in, to read some of the seals, and became wide eyed. “Whoa… Some of these are great feats.” He said, before noticing one. “These World Eaters don’t sound like very… Kind ponies, at all.”

“Trust me, when I say this, you don’t want to fight them. Their blood lust is a feared thing. They won’t stop charging until you either brought them down, or they bring you down.” Zu’hal said, giving a nod.

“H-How many did you defeat? For that purity seal, exactly.” Shining Armor asked, feeling like he was the latter between the two warriors.

“A total of twenty by bolter fire, then another thirty with my war hammer.” Zu’hal said, Twilight noticing that the memory wasn’t a fond one of the guardian, since his head was lowered a little more than before.

Shining read the purity seal, and noticed why it wasn’t a happy memory of his. “Oh… I’m sorry about your squad.” Shining said, looking up at the guardian. “If I read further, I wouldn’t have asked.”

Zu’hal shook his head. “They all fell valiantly, protecting the retreating citizens of the city we were protecting. Had we not held our ground, well… You can figure out the rest.”

Shining nodded at the statement. “I see, they fell doing their duties, then.” He quickly smiled up at the warrior. “It is an honor to meet you, Brother Zu’hal. I am Shining Armor, Princess Cadence’s husband, and older brother of Princes Twilight. How long were you in the service of the Salamanders?” He asked, wanting to change the subject.

“The honor is mine, Prince Shining Armor… Also, ten years as a scout-initiate, a hundred and fifty as a battle brother… The last fifty years as a Terminator.” He answered, putting a shock on everyone’s faces at his age.

“You’re two hundred and ten years old?” Cadence asked, her eyes wide.

“Yes, and do not worry for your safety. While I am here, no danger will go unnoticed. Those two hundred and fifty years of service have rendered my senses to their peak of combat efficiency.” Zu’hal said proudly, making Twilight feel even more prideful at the guardian she brought.

“Heh… I could use your experience up in the Crystal Empire, helping prepare the warriors of our Kingdom.” Shining said, chuckling a bit.

“Back off, B.B.B.F.F! Zu’hal is mine.” Twilight said, jokingly, as the group began to laugh.

When Nyx tapped Zu’hal’s shoulder, he looked down and noticed the Princess was motioning for him to for him to come down closer. The Terminator slowly leaned down, and lowered his helmet down for her to whisper in to. “Um… Zu’hal…. Do you mind if I get on your shoulder? I want to see what is going around the Gala.” She asked.

The request made Zu’hal smile behind his helmet and nod. “Hop on up, Nyx. I don’t mind at all.” He said, lowering his shield arm to allow her to climb on up.

The young filly cheered, making the others wonder what she asked, before smiling as Nyx quickly climbed up Zu’hal’s arm. To reach his shoulder, she had to use her wings to reach it, but soon found a good spot to lay down, between the shoulder and breastplate. “Alright, hold on.” The princess nodded, as the guardian stood back up, and allow her to see the entire Gala from on top of his shoulder.

This actually made her giggle, and her eyes shine with excitement. “It seems… You’ve found quite the protector, Twilight.” Cadence whispered to her sister in-law, smiling at the sight.

“Indeed…. I hope he can stay longer, Nyx seems to have latched on to him rather fast, after he saved her.” Twilight said, making the two look at her. “Oh… I forgot to mention how we met, huh? Funny story, really…” Twilight grinned before going into how they met Zu’hal, and how he threw away the fight and saved Nyx from a falling building. She even told them how he was showing her how to work a forge, and metalwork, in the castle armory.

All the while, Zu’hal was allowing Nyx to direct him around the Gala, after he placed Twilight’s banner where the others were standing. Some of the other attendees chuckled some, seeing the filly Princess ordering the large guardian around, even going so far as to hand her a cupcake from the snack table.

Even when the dancing started, and Nyx didn’t have a colt to dance with her, starting to look upset… Zu’hal suddenly walked up, and became her partner. Despite their obvious height distance, the Terminator lowered his hands down and allowed Nyx to put her hooves into his hands… She began to dance a bit, while he went with the movements. Twilight saw this, and actually smiled at how much fun her daughter was having.

“Twilight…” A voice said, making the Princess turn to see her sister-in law walking up to her. “Despite their difference, it seems like Nyx really enjoys Zu’hal’s company.”

Twilight gave a nod, “Yeah…” She said, watching the two of them dance. “Makes me wish she had a dad, to be perfectly honest.”

Cadence frowned some, nuzzling the younger mare. “What did happen to her father? I mean, where is he? You never did tell us.” She asked.

“I-I don’t know. One day he was there, then next he was gone.” Twilight admitted, lowering her head. “It was soon after Nyx was born, leaving me alone with her.”

Cadence saw the hurt look in Twilight’s eyes, and instantly hugged her. Though, the exchange didn’t go unnoticed, Zu’hal was watching them. While he couldn’t hear the entire conversation, and most of his attention was on young Nyx, he did catch the word ‘Father’ and noticed how it made Twilight become sad.

When the Gala was coming to an end, Zu’hal had Nyx sleeping in his arm, behind the storm shield, while he had grabbed the banner with the other hand. They said their thanks to Princess Celestia, and Princess Luna, before departing back to Ponyville… Twilight couldn’t help feel herself, and Nyx, safe around the behemoth. Spike, who seemed so timid at first, was walking proudly beside him.

Chapter Four: Fathers