Wolf held the edge of the chariot in a death-grip, “I do not like this!” He shouted, wide-eyed.

“Relax, Wolfie. You’ll be fine,” Pinkie smiled, leaning over the edge. “You can see my house from here.”

Wolf groaned, “Master, will you knock me unconscious?” He begged.

“No, Wolf. We’ll be there within the hour, I suggest you get comfortable.”

Wolf sighed, “Very well, Master,” he replied sitting with his back to the front of the chariot. Wolf took off his backpack and reached inside. ‘Damn pegasi and their stupid flying faces’, he thought. Rooting around inside he pulled out his mp3 player.

“What’s that thingy?” Pinkie asked.

“A music player,” he replied pulling out the speakers. “Would you like to hear something from my world?” He asked plugging in the speakers.

“Oooh, ooh, yes!” Pinkie begged. "Play some alien music."

“Personally I prefer classical rock and dance music, but I have a bit of everything.”

Twilight looked at the exchange in curiosity, “What is rock?” she asked.

“It’s what you do before you roll, Master.” He replied cryptically with a grin, turning on the machine.

The mp3 player lit up, causing Twilight to lean in and ogle the device. “How in Equus does it work?” She asked unblinking.

“The music on this device was turned into raw data via a computer, one of my people’s most advanced technologies at the time, then transferred over to this device. Or something like that, I can’t tell you exactly how, Master. It wasn’t one of my fields of study.” Wolf replied, shuffling through the songs.

Twilight looked on as Wolf went through the list, curiously staring at the squiggles on the screen, “Why can’t I read this when I can understand what you’re saying?” She looked to Wolf, “shouldn’t it be similar to Equestrian? Your spoken language obviously is.”

“Not really, Master. That would be the Magi’s doing. Kind of a universal language translating spell. I can read your written language, understand your speech and you mine, but not vice-versa.” He replied. “Which is why when I play a song, you won’t understand the words. So I’ll try and stick to mostly instrumentals for now.”

“Can I pick one?” Pinkie asked, “Pleeease?” she pouted, getting an inch from Wolf’s face.

Wolf leaned back attempting to put distance between them. “Pink one, you’re in my bubble…” He turned his head to Twilight, “Master, call her off, please, she’s being weird.” He whispered.

“That’s just Pinkie being Pinkie.” Twilight replied, eyes locked on the music player, “But would you calm down, please?”

“Okie-dokie-loki” She happily replied in a sing-song voice, leaning back.

Wolf sighed happily, “Thank you,” he looked over to the pink pony. “Yes, you can pick something. I’ll let you know if it’s appropriate.”

“Oh, oh, that one, it looks pretty!” She shouted, pointing at the screen.

“Hmm, not really appropriate and has a few words, but not a bad choice. I’ll allow it. Master?”

Twilight shrugged, “I don’t know, Wolf. I can’t read it, remember. Go ahead if you think it’s okay.”

“Very well,” Wolf hit play on the device with a smile. “Greetings, from Terra.”

Wolf began tapping his foot as pinkie stared at the speakers in awe, her shock soon turned into a cheshire-cat grin. Wolf dug through his pack and pulled out a pack of cigarettes and his Zippo. “May I smoke, Master?” He asked.

“Huh,” Twilight asked, coming out of her trance. “What?”

“Smoke, may I?” He asked again holding a cigarette out and wiggling it in front of her.

“What will it do?” She asked, full of curiosity.

“It’ll calm my nerves, this open air flying is getting to me.” He replied.

“Okay... I don’t see why not.”

Wolf flipped open the Zippo with a ‘tink’ and rolled his thumb over the striker, creating a small flash followed by a small flame that flickered in the wind. Twilight stared at the flame in awe, “It makes fire,” she said to herself. Wolf nodded as he brought the lit Zippo, that was fighting the wind, to the cigarette sticking out of his mouth taking a long drag. “Ahh, that's better. Much appreciated, Master.” He sighed as smoke flowed out of his mouth.

Pinkie giggled, “are you part dragon?” she asked as she bobbed to the beat.

Wolf chuckled. “I don’t think so, Pinkie Pie.”

“You can call me Pinkie.”

“Very well, Pinkie.” He smiled as he put the pack of cigarettes and lighter away, “Would you like something to drink?” He asked looking to Pinkie.

“Nope, but thanks anyway.” She replied with a grin.

“Master?” He asked looking to Twilight.

“Thank you, but no.”

“Anytime, Master.” He replied, taking another drag from his cigarette as he pulled out his flask.

Twilight watched as he pulled out the metal container, “What’s in that? That isn’t what you drank out of earlier.”

“You are correct, Master. Inside this is alcohol, or ethanol,” he corrected, “called Moonshine. Good for small scrapes, cuts, and lowering inhibitions. My mother made it, she always packs me some when I go out to scavenge. Which is what I was doing when I got your summon.” Wolf explained causing Pinkie to eye the container.

“I see... Just don’t drink too much, Wolf. I don’t want you falling out of this chariot and I’m sure the princess still has questions for you.” She said sternly.

“Yes, Master. Just a little to take the edge off.”

“I changed my mind, can I have some?” Pinkie asked staring at the flask unblinking.

“Umm,” Wolf looked to twilight, who shrugged, “I suppose. But just a little, I don’t have much.”

Pinkie squealed in delight as she grabbed the flask, unscrewing the cap with her hooves, “Applejack always hides the stuff she makes from me… But I find it.” She said taking a rather large swig. Pinkie’s eyes went unfocused as she swallowed the liquid. “Ooo, that’s the stuff, got a bit of a bite though.”

Wolf smiled, “I like you, Pinkie.” He admitted, taking another drag as he motioned for Pinkie to return the flask. “Personally, I think you and Master are the the only ones that don’t see me as a threat or monster.” He said, taking the open flask from Pinkie and gulping down a mouthful.

“Not true,” Pinkie informed motioning for the flask, “Fluttershy likes you too.” She smiled as she took another drink. “The other girls will come around.”

“I’ll take your word for it.” He replied reaching for the flask, swallowing another mouthful.

“That’s enough you two.” Twilight admonished, “I don’t want to have to drag either of you in front of the princess and explain why you’re drunk.”

“Yes, Master.” Wolf sighed, grabbing the cap from Pinkie and screwing it back on the flask, stuffing it into his pack.

“Aww, party pooper.” Pinkie said looking at Twilight, “Don’tcha worry, Wolfie, we’ll continue this later.” Pinkie said as the music ended. Wolf nodded as he rolled the cord around the speakers and put the device in his pack.

Wolf took another drag then scooted to the back of the chariot. He snuffed out the cigarette on the metal edge then pushed back to the front; slipping the short into a pocket. “Feel any better?” Twilight asked.

“Not really, Master. Maybe in a few minutes.” He replied as he slipped the short in his pocket.

Thirty Minutes Later

“Wolf,” Twilight gently shook the groggy human, “are you okay? We’re almost there.”

“No, Master.” He groaned, holding his temples.

“So, you get airsick..?” Twilight asked deadpanning.

“It would appear so, Master.”

Twilight sighed turning to Wolf, “hold still,” she said charging her magic. Twilight leaned into Wolf and touched her horn to his forehead. “Any better?”

“A little, the world isn’t spinning nearly as much. Thank you, Master.” He replied with a smile.

“Good, now look ahead, we’re coming up on Canterlot.”

Wolf nodded and turned around taking in the scene before him. A large castle built onto the side of a mountain, five large towers with a mixture of gold, white, silver, and blue spires shone in the moonlight. A large objective lens poked out of one of the larger blue spires; obviously an observatory of some kind. Lights coming from windows dotted the building, giving the castle a lived in feel. As wolf continued to look he noticed a large waterfall coming from the base of the castle. ‘I hope that’s not full of their waste.’ He thought. “It’s very pretty, Master. It reminds me a little of Magi architecture, except without the black spires everywhere.”

“Um, okay.” She replied unsure, “From what you told me about them that doesn’t seem like a good thing.”

Wolf shrugged continuing to look at the castle, “It’s not a bad thing, Master. They’re architecture is pretty, all things considered. The buildings never did anything wrong.”

A small object took off from one of the towers and started to fly toward the convoy of chariots. Wolf watched the object curiously as it got larger, beginning to get closer. Soon the he was able to make out the object as another of the so called ‘Night Guard’. The guard flew up to the lead chariot, hovered beside it, then flew ahead to a large opening at the base of one of the towers. With a grunt he returned to his previous position of sitting in the chariot watching the sky, trying to keep his mind off flying in an open-air chariot with no restraints. ‘Ugh, this sucks.’

“You okay, Wolfie? You’re gonna’ miss the best part.” Pinkie asked looking to Wolf while she leaned forward, hooves on the edge of the chariot.

“I’ll pass, thank you.” He replied, then looked to Twilight. “Let me know when we get there, Master.”

“Alright, just... Try not to think about it.” She replied, in a compassionate tone, causing Wolf to nod.

Moments earlier at the lead chariot

“Princess, have you completed your business in Ponyville?” The Night Guard asked as he hovered beside the chariot.

“We have, so to speak. See to it our sister is informed of our arrival, wake her if you must, this is of the utmost import.” Luna informed, “See to it the chariot bay is secure, meaning no unessential ponies.” She turned her head to look at the guard, “dismissed.”

With that the lone Night Guard shot back to the castle. He glided low into one of the larger openings near the ground.

“We’re almost there, Wolf.” Twilight informed.

Wolf sighed in relief as the chariot started to slow, turning his head and peaking over the side. They were very close to the ground now. ‘Thank the gods.’ He thought looking up at the sky. A small clatter was heard ahead, signaling the ground was coming. With a rush of air, Wolf flinched as the ceiling cut off his view of the night sky. A small thud was his signal that they had truly landed. He sighed in relief as it came to a stop, pressing his back firmly against the front of the chariot. ‘Finally.’

Wolf scooted to the end of the chariot putting his legs on the ground. He put his head in his hands, keeping silent as Pinkie bounced down off the chariot.

“You okay, Wolfie?”

“Yeah, are you alright? You don’t look very well.” Twilight asked, concern in her voice.

“I’ll be alright now, I just need a minute, Master. I’m still moving.” He replied.

“Alright. I’m going to go ask the princess what she wants us to do. You take your time.” Twilight informed causing Wolf to nod into his hands as she walked off the chariot.

Wolf tried to control his breathing, attempting to calm down; the room felt as if it were spinning. He felt the chariot bounce slightly. Parting his fingers he looked to his left, to his mild surprise Pinkie was there sitting very close to him. “It’ll be okay, Wolfie.” She said as she put a hoof on his back and began to slowly rub up and down. Closing his fingers he sighed into his palms.

“Hank ooo, Vinkie.” He mumbled into his hands, feeling slightly better.

The rest of the girls came walking up on the two, with three confused looks and one of mild suspicious. Fluttershy was the first to speak. “Oh my, what’s wrong?” She asked, stepping up to Wolf.

“Wolfie got airsick.” Pinkie answered stopping her rubbing.

“Oh, you poor thing,” Fluttershy said as she hopped up on the chariot sitting to Wolf’s right. She put the side of her fetlock to Wolf’s forehead and held it in place. She hummed to herself as she removed her hoof and placed it on his chest. Fluttershy held it there for a moment then softly started to pat his chest, “my mom would do this to me when I would get nervous as a filly, sometimes it helped.”

Oddly enough, Wolf started to feel better, ‘why are they so concerned? These two only just met me, an alien, a few hours before.’ Dropping his hands to his side he looked over to Fluttershy with a smile, “thank you, Miss Fluttershy. I’m feeling immensely better; that’s a neat trick.” Wolf said, causing her to look down with blush and cover the majority of her face with her mane. He turned to look at Pinkie, “Thank you too, Pinkie. I don’t know a lot of people who would have done that for someone they just met.”

“That’s what friends are for.” She smiled, hopping off the chariot.

Holding on to the edge of the chariot, Wolf stood and turned to the gathered ponies. “Okay, now what?” He said looking around. The chariot bay was fairly large, rows of empty chariots lined the walls. A single ‘U’ shaped runway made its way through the room, presumably one side for landing and the other for takeoff. The center of the ‘U’ held a few chariots in the midst of repair, with toolboxes and other equipment strewn about haphazardly. It was almost eerily quiet, the only ponies to be seen were guards posted on the runway and at the entrances to the castle itself.

“Now we wait for the princess’ decision.” Captain Armour informed as he walked up from behind.

“Very well, my Master just went to speak with princess Luna. Hopefully she will return with word shortly.” Wolf replied turning his head to the guard captain.

“Do you really need to call her, master?” He asked with a sigh.

“Yes, it shows the proper respect.” Wolf curtly replied, causing Rarity to smile and nod in agreement. The guard captain took his answer and walked over to the princess’ chariot.

Upon hearing this again Rainbow Dash groaned in annoyance, “tch, whatever. It’s still weird, though.”

“Well, I for one understand completely. And you, Rainbow, need to be more accepting of our new acquaintance and his customs.” Rarity quickly butted in.

“Humph, well, I stand by what I said. It. Is. Weird. An alien gets teleported from it’s home and family then is suddenly all, Master this, and Master that. Oh Master~, Master, Master.” Rainbow rattled off with an eye-roll, “I don’t buy it.”

Wolf took a step toward Rainbow with a scowl on his face causing her to take a step back. “Look,” Wolf growled, pointing to Rainbow, “like it or not, my Master’s life is important to me, the very chance of me seeing my family again rides on her survival. So, yes, I have my own agenda. Keeping her alive, and I’ll make sure she stays that way. You don’t have to trust me, you don’t even have to like me. I don’t care. The only thing I care about is keeping my Master safe so I can go home someday.” Finishing his small rant he turned and started to walk away from the shocked ponies, only to almost run directly into captain Armour. “Pardon me.” Wolf said politely as he skirted around him heading to the lead chariot where Twilight could be seen talking to the princess.

“What was that about?” Shining asked, walking up to the girls.

Pinkie shrugged as Fluttershy stepped off the chariot, “Umm, I don’t really know. He was fine a second ago.” Fluttershy replied.

Applejack snickered as she stepped forward. “Welp, I think I know what done set ‘im off." She continued walking to stand beside Rainbow, "Rainbow here was pokin’ the bear and the bear finally decided to poke back.” Applejack added with a grin, nudging Rainbow. “Sure had you backin’ off right quick.” She chuckled.

“D-did not, I was just getting ready in case he tried something.” Rainbow poorly defended.

“Master, princess Luna,” Wolf said walking up to the chariot, “What would you have me do?”

Twilight and Luna turned to Wolf, “For now, ser Wolf, we would show you to your room for the night. We have more questions for you, as we’re sure you are aware.” Wolf nodded as Luna turned to Twilight, “We shall have Captain Armour take you to your rooms while we speak with our sister.”

“Okay, thank you princess.” Twilight replied with a slight bow as Luna headed for one of the interior doors of the landing bay. “I guess that’s it until the morning, Wolf.” She added looking up at the human, who nodded.

Wolf looked to the ponies gathered by the chariot he left and sighed, ‘This is going to be a long mini-vacation.’ He thought as he followed Twilight up to the group of friends.

“Okay, Shining, while princess Luna speaks with princess Celestia we’re to be given rooms for the night.” Twilight informed the group, getting a nod in return from Shining.

“Easy enough, please follow me.” Shining said as he headed to one of the interior entrances.

Wolf walked up to the side of the chariot and grabbed his bag, throwing a strap over his right shoulder. ‘At least I’ll get some time to think soon,’ he thought, as he caught up to Twilight and her friends.

“Welcome to Canterlot Castle, Wolf.” Shining said as he opened the large door.

The interior of the castle was quite large, twenty foot ceilings of polished white and grey marble. A strip of red velvet carpet, lined with gold tassels, was at the center of the hallway. Off to the side were columns, hundreds of them, traveling along the walls. White and grey tiles lined the ceiling and the parts of the floor that wasn't carpeted. Large doors, roughly ten feet tall, spotted the hallway on either side, for most doors there was a Night Guard present. With every adjoining hallway seemingly the same, ‘how do these ponies find anything, everything looks alike.’

As they continued down the hallway, passing a sentry every few minutes, one side of the wall stopped having random doors and abruptly changed to stained glass windows; every few feet. The windows portrayed ponies, Wolf obviously didn’t know, doing random acts he didn’t quite understand. One in particular caught his eye, causing him to stop. It showed a bearded pony dressed in a blue robe, with yellow stars and white moons, and a pointy blue hat tipped with a bell. The pony was standing amidst books and scrolls in the center of a magic circle, looking up to a night sky. A line went from his horn to what seemed to be a rift in space opening to a spiral galaxy. ‘What the hell? That looks li-’ He thought, until someone put the brakes to his train of thought.

“Wolf, are you alright?” Twilight asked walking up beside him.

“Yes," Wolf replied, a bit too quickly. "My apologies, Master. I was just looking around.” He replied turning away from the window. “Shall we continue?”

Twilight nodded as they turned to catch up to the group. Wolf on the other hand, was lost in thought. ‘That galaxy looked extremely similar to the Milky Way. Do these ponies live somewhere outside our galaxy? Have they been there in the past?’ Wolf sighed inwardly. ‘Something feels off about all this.’

Eventually, after a few more hallways, flights of stairs, ‘goodnights’, and ‘see you tomorrows’ all that remained of the group was Wolf, Shining Armour, and Twilight. “Here’s your room, Twily. It should be the same as you left it.” Shining said as he looked to Twilight.

“Thanks, Shiny, I’ll see you in the morning.” She replied with a half-hug. “We have a long day tomorrow.” Twilight looked to Wolf. “Behave until then, please.”

“Yes, Master. Goodnight.”

Hearing that Twilight walked into the room and shut the door. Wolf turned to look at the guard captain who was already staring at the human.

“That just leaves us I suppose.” Shining stated causing Wolf to nod in agreement. “Well, let’s continue to your room.”

“Very well, lead the way.”

Shining nodded and continued down the hallway in silence. A few minutes into the walk, Shining glanced over at the human to his side. “I’m only going to say this once so remember it,” Shining began, “if you do anything to harm my sister, they’ll never find your body, Human.”

“Uh, I don’t even know your sister.” Wolf replied casually as he looked around.

“Yes, you do.” Shining deadpanned. “Twilight, your ‘Master’, is my sister.”

That got Wolf’s attention causing him to immediately stop and look at the unicorn. “Now that you mention it... It seems a little obvious.” Wolf said gently. “From one brother to another, you have my word that I will not harm her nor will any harm come to her while I’m around.” Hearing the subtle hints of sorrow, Shining stopped and turned to the human.

“I see… Wolf?” Shining asked with a serious tone, causing Wolf to stare at the unicorn with a raised eyebrow. “I was wondering what that outburst earlier was about. You miss your family, don't you? Your sister.

“More or less, that and I’m not a big fan of being called a monster or a liar, or insinuated at that, anyway.”

Shining nodded and continued down the hall, leading wolf to his room.

Three Hours Later

Wolf sighed, lying on his queen sized bed, ‘Not being able to sleep regularly sucks. I just want to end this day...’ Wolf stared at the ceiling and counted the tiles again, for the forty-seventh time. ‘When you are summoned,’ he recited internally with a mocking tone, ‘you will need to sleep much-much less, your sleep cycle will be roughly two to four days awake depending on how many hours are on the planet.’ He rolled to his side facing the open balcony, where unknown stars could be seen twinkling. He sighed again, ‘fuck it.’ Wolf rolled completely over, scooted to the edge of the bed, threw his backpack over his shoulder and made for the door.

Wolf opened the door and peeked out into the hallway, he was met with a stoic Night Guard. “Sooo, would it be acceptable for me to leave this room?” He asked the guard, who didn’t respond. “Okay... So if I leave, you won’t attack me?” He tried again, to no answer.

“Good enough for me,” he happily said stepping into the hall. The guard remained motionless. ‘Little victories.’ He thought, looking left, then right. ‘That’s right, shit, everything looks the same.’ Wolf rolled his eyes. “Which way to ‘outside’?” He asked, turning to the guard, who again did nothing. Wolf sighed internally, ‘Alright, time for some classic video game logic. Right is right, so it’s wrong. Left it is.’

Wolf went left, passing in front of the guard. “Thank you,” he said with a nod, continuing down the hall. Admiring the uniformity and utter silence of the castle at night. ‘Their security is kind of lax for a castle, holding two princesses... Hmm... I call bullshit.’ Wolf thought, Coming to a stop in the curving hallway, quickly doing an about face; he made his way back. Sure enough, the guard in front of room two-thirteen, his room, was gone. ‘Called it,’ He thought with a grin, ‘Observe and report, eh? Alright then.’

Meanwhile

“Princess Luna, I’ve gotten word the human has left his room. He asked how to get outside.” The night guard informed walking up to the dais.

“Very well, keep an eye upon him and inform us when he gets close to an exit.” Luna ordered to the guard, who saluted and promptly left. ‘What art thou up to, human.’ She thought as she watched the guard leave.

Wolf casually walked down another random hallway. ‘Seriously..? This has to be the ground floor.’ Wolf could feel the slightest temperature change coming from outside, but after running into quite a few open windows and two balconies earlier, he held off his relief. Coming to another fork in the hallway, he waited. He looked left, then right, nobody in sight, no sign of anyone since he left his room. The silence, peaceful at first, was starting to become eerie. He made his way left again and sprinted down the hall, ending in a set of double-doors.

Wolf slowed to a walk and stepped up to the doors. Knocking twice, he waited for a reply; only to hear nothing. Shrugging, he opened one of the doors slightly and peeked through. To his relief, it did indeed lead outside. On the other hand, to his surprise, he was met with one of the few ponies he knew. A princesses of Equestria, Princess Luna.

Wolf grinned, opening the door fully “Good evening, Princess.”

“Good evening, ser Wolf. May we ask your intentions?” The princess asked with a smile.

“I can’t sleep, so I decided to go for a walk.” He replied, stepping outside into the night air. “Nobody said I couldn’t, so I figured it was alright.”

Luna nodded and continued to smile, a thoughtful expression on her face. “If thou art restless we can have the kitchen staff prepare something to aid thee.”

“No, thank you. But you misunderstand, I’m literally unable to sleep. It will take quite some time for me to grow tired enough, now that I’ve been summoned.” Wolf paused as he walked closer to Luna. “Princess, may I ask you a question?” Luna nodded, “how many hours are in the day here?”

Luna stared at Wolf with a quizzical expression on her face, “Twenty-four, twelve in our sisters day and twelve in our night.”

“I see, thank you. From what I understand, it should take roughly three days for me to get tired enough to require sleep.” He replied sullenly, “This will take some getting used to.”

“How queer, 'twould be most disorienting for ones sleep cycle to change so drastically.”

“I’m beginning to think that’s the case. It’s strange being awake so long but not getting tired. They had little in ways to train us for this, aside from forming links for a few days and sleep deprivation. What training we did have wasn't extensive.”

“Hmm.. Ser Wolf?” Luna began, turning away from him.

“Yes, your highness?” He asked.

Looking back to the human, her ethereal hair gradually changing direction, “Would thou care to walk with us through the castle garden? Tis quite peaceful during our night, the Midnight Blossoms should be in bloom and their luminescent glow... 'Tis quite beautiful.”

“Oh, alright, that sounds like a sight to see.” Wolf replied, somewhat surprised, as the two started walking.

The two slowly made their way along a cobblestone path, moonlight shining down lighting their path. The slight clopping sound of Luna’s horseshoes and the constant chirping of crickets were the only sounds disrupting their conversation.

“So, ser Wolf. Wilt thou enlighten us on what thou did for an occupation on Terra?”

“Sure, It’s no big secret and hardly a glamorous job.” Luna looked over to Wolf signalling that he had her complete attention. “I was a scavenger,” Luna cocked her head in confusion. “I would go out into the wilderness and scour the wasteland in search of old technology and other useful items. Mostly I look for precious metals, as they’re required in all of our technology. It pays extremely well, so I can help provide for my family, but It can be a bit dangerous at times. I always make my mother worry.” He informed with a smile.

“What would make such an occupation so perilous?”

Wolf came to a stop, causing Luna halt and turn to him. “There are creatures, in the wilderness, that have mutated to such a point they’ve become nothing more than killing machines. When the Magi used their magic on our atomic weapons, it did something to them. Whatever they didn't kill they changed, into Thrulls…” Wolf shivered at the thought. “Their blood curdling screams haunt even me. One on it’s own, that knows you’re there, is more of a threat than a group of random humans. They’re bloodthirsty, relentless, highly resistant to damage and most have unbelievably sharp talons. They are usually larger, faster, and stronger than the average human. Some fly, some are so silent you never know they’re there till it’s too late. Some can regenerate from the gravest wound and most travel in packs. It’s a fool's job, but very profitable.”

Luna stared at Wolf in abject horror, “Such monsters exist. Truly?” Wolf nodded, “'Tis a fool’s errand indeed.”

“Aside from those, you have humans. They usually have gone crazy and the few that are sane just want what you have. Thrulls are extremely dangerous but have no greater consciousness, that we know of. But, humans you also need to watch out for, they can lure you into traps that you’ll never notice till you’re caught inside it. They can even kill you from so far away that you never knew what hit you. I’ve ran into quite a few cannibals and raiders in my time out there, but I’ve been lucky. They're not all bad, but you never can tell. After my first time caught in an ambush I just started avoiding people out there altogether... When I can anyway.” He said as he continued down that path again, Luna at his side.

“What did thou do to escape?”

Wolf went silent for a moment as he thought of the best way to answer. “I didn’t need to. They tried to kill me, rob me, and possibly eat me… So, I killed them before they had that opportunity. If I had ran they would have shot me in the back, there was no escape.” Wolf answered with a sigh. “It’s what some of my kind is reduced to. It’s better to just end them so they can’t kill anyone else. And sometimes you have to be reckless to come out alive.”

“We understand, for the most part. We are no stranger to fighting nor killing. Yet it has been quite some time since those days, and we regret it still.” Luna said in a melancholic tone lowering her head.

“We all do what we have to, Princess. That seems to be true on any planet. Right or wrong usually comes second to survival.” Wolf let out a sigh, “the faces of those I’ve killed still haunt me and I’ll never forget them, I owe them, or I deserve that much. It doesn't matter if they were good or evil.”

“Yes, now that, we truly understand…” She replied looking up. “We are here.”

“This looks more like a hedge maze than a garden.” Wolf pointed out, looking up at the tall hedges that were perfectly trimmed.

“It doubles as both. We often come here to clear our thoughts.” She informed as she sped up, ahead of Wolf. “Come, there is much to see.”

“Okay. Just don’t lose me, I’d rather not be wandering around in there all night.” Wolf chuckled.

“'Twould be most unfortunate. But thee wanted to walk.” She replied looking back to Wolf with a sly grin on her face.

"Princess, may I ask you something?" Wolf asked as they made their way into the maze.

"You may," she replied turning onto another path, Wolf at her side.

"Don't take this the wrong way, but, you sometimes seem to switch slightly between old-English and common English. Why is that?" He asked following beside Luna as she walked past a few paths.

Luna sighed, "We have been away for quite some time and just recently returned. We have been seeing an instructor, so that I may adapt with current times." She stopped and stared down yet another path, after a moment she chose to walk it. "It has been difficult. I can speak to my sister perfectly, but when we-I address our subjects, I get nervous and fall into my old speech patterns. I shall endeavor to speak correctly around you if 'tis a bother."

"I see. And, no, it's not bothering me. You can speak to me in whatever way is most comfortable to you," he replied, looking up at the sky, missing the subtle blush on Luna's face. "But, if you don't mind me asking, where did you go?"

Luna's smile fell, "'tis quite a long story, one for another time. We art nearly there." She said quietly, quickening her pace and taking another path, Wolf following alongside.

"Fair enough."

They continued down the winding and changing paths until they reached a small alcove. The small cobblestone walkway they were on came to a 'T'. The garden was full of small rose-like flowers, coming up to Wolf's shin. The flowers surrounded a small pond beside which was a statue of a mare holding out an urn that poured an endless flow of water. The glowing blue flowers swayed in the subtle breeze, sending small orbs of yellow bio-luminescent pollen into the air. Luna and Wolf stood, side by side, taking in the scene before them. A sweet scent hung in the air, reminding Wolf of the patches of Honeysuckle around his home. The moment of tranquility was only interrupted by the quiet rustling behind them.

"So," Wolf asked, breaking the silence as he looked over to Luna, "this is quite beautiful. But, exactly how many guards are following us? My count is at two. But, knowing that, I know there are three. Which means at least four." He finished with a grin.

Luna didn't miss a beat as she looked to Wolf, "very astute. You are correct in your assumption." She smiled, "there is a squad of our guard following. Our sister thought 'twould be best we keep an eye on you for the time being."

"Ah, well, understandable. But as beautiful as this place is I could never truly enjoy such a place while being watched. No offense to you or your sister." He replied with a glance behind him. " But this place is remarkably peaceful, I'll have to come back here before I get unsummoned. Thank you, for showing me this place."

Luna's smile dipped slightly but was quick to reform. "No offense was taken, and you are most welcome."

"So, is there anything else open this late?" Wolf asked.

"In the city proper? Not to my knowledge." Luna paused, lost in thought, a hoof coming up to her chin. "Please, follow me, we have an idea," a grin forming.

"You know, now that I know they're there, you don't need to have your guards hiding in the shadows."

"Indeed. But 'tis wise never to underestimate the element of surprise, even if 'tis slight." She replied, still grinning, as they made there way to the exit.

Ten Minutes Later

"What is this place?" Wolf inquired, as he looked around.

It was a large field surrounded by a track, the outer wall visible on the other side. Along the wall there were worn patches of ground every few feet, with a fabricated pony holding a wooden sword and shield in the center. There were several of the Night Guard practicing with the dummies, that seemed to track movement and swivel on its mount. The obviously enchanted dummies would swing their wooden swords as the guard attempted to evade, trying to get in a strike of their own. A few of the wingless guard were in full armour doing laps around the track as one in light armour shouted from the sideline. In the center there was a group of unicorn. Some were levitating what appeared to be large dumbbells as the others levitated quite a few small stones. The unicorn levitating the stones would send wave after wave at the other waiting guards making them defend and evade them, like a swarm of angry bees.

"'Tis the guard training area. It also doubles as an arena when the situation calls for it." Luna informed, looking over to Wolf.

"Why bring me here?" He asked, confused, watching the guards train.

"A few reasons, ser Wolf," She replied as she made her way out to the track, Wolf following close behind. "We are quite curious as to what one such as yourself can do. We planned on testing you tomorrow but considering your inability to sleep, there is no time like the present."

"Okay... I could use a workout and the experience will be nice. I've never fought against a quadruped." Wolf smiled, "My combat effectiveness will be lower without my weapons, not to mention my lack of magic at the moment. Otherwise, this should be interesting."

"Quite," Luna replied simply as she glanced around the arena. "Lieutenant Colonel, Night Flame! Report!" She shouted, causing Wolf to recoil and shoot his hands over his ears.

'By the Ten Courts of Hell, she's got some pipes!' Wolf thought, over the rigging in his ears.

"The Lieutenant will put you through your paces. He has been freelancing for our sis-"

"What!?" Wolf interrupted, "sorry, it's hard to hear you!" He stared at the princess, jiggling a finger in his ear in attempts to stop the ringing.

"Apologies," She replied sheepishly.

"It's alright! But warn a guy next time! My ears are sensitive!" He continued to shout.

"Ma'am?" They were interrupted by a, lightly armoured, light blue stallion with a short blue and red mane. He was an average sized pony and the only thing that truly set him apart was his black hooves and wing apparatus on his back.

"Yes, we would like thee to taketh, the human, ser Wolf here," she began, motioning to Wolf, "and test his abilities in combat."

"Very well, your Highness." He replied with a slight bow. "Wolf, please follow me to the training area."

"Alright," he replied simply, following the pony, "Princess, could you hold onto these for me?" Wolf asked, looking back to the princess. She nodded as he took off his backpack and pulled out his Browning Hi Power. He carefully removed the magazine and popped the round out of the chamber, slipped the bullet into his pocket, and held them out.

"Your other weapon?" She asked.

Wolf nodded, "you see... I've been trained to use it on instinct, when I'm in trouble." He paused, "just in case."

Luna nodded as they made their way across the field, Wolf could feel the eyes on him as the yard seemed to get slightly quieter. They stopped near the wall and waited for Night Flame to remove the wooden dummy and set it aside.

"Okay, Human, I assume you know this is merely a training exercise?" The light blue stallion asked, looking up impassively at the human.

"Yes." Wolf kept his answers short and concise.

"Good, one moment please." Night Flame replied as he started walking down the row of practice areas.

Wolf looked back to Luna who was sitting on the grass a few feet behind him. She didn't notice, her focus was on the weapon currently suspended in her magic. She flipped it around, looking into the square-ish hole on the side, only to flip it again and look down the short rifled barrel. Wolf sighed, secretly thankful he unloaded the weapon before handing it over. 'It's like giving a gun to a child.'

Wolf decided to inform the princess of her 'would be' dangerous mistake. "Princess," Luna looked up to Wolf, who was walking over to her, "If those two pieces were together, looking down the small tube in the front is extremely dangerous and could result in immediate death." She stared at Wolf, her curious expression turning to understanding followed shortly by worry. "It's about as useful as a bookend in it's current state though," he quickly added, noticing her expression drop. "I would be glad to show you the proper way to handle it when we get a chance. But remember it is, after all, a weapon. A powerful weapon, of the industrial era before The Accord. It was my grandfa-" He was interrupted by Night Flame clearing his throat.

"Ahem," Wolf turned to face the pony, who was flanked by a smaller female Pegasus in partial armour, another Night Guard. "This is Private Hot Start, she will be your opponent for this sparing mach." The stallion looked up to the human. "Do you require a training weapon?"

Wolf thought for a moment. 'Well, hmm. Before I take things too seriously I really should see what these ponies are capable of. After all, this is only a sparring mach.' He grinned, "No, thank you." He replied, nodding to the stallion.

"Have it your way. Please take your positions and hold," The two moved away from each other, roughly eight feet apart in the almost sixteen foot square.

Wolf stared at the pony in front of him, she was smaller than most of the Night Guard he's seen so far. Her light blue mane was short obviously parted in the center with the way it came around her face under the helmet. She had the same golden cat eyes as other guard but he noticed her ears were a just a tiny bit bigger, for the size of her head. She was crouched, ready to pounce, her front legs bent and wings slightly flared. 'She's going to shoot toward me, fast. Or that's what she wants me to think.' Wolf suppressed a grin as he decided his first move. 'This is gonna be fun.' He made a fist and gripped it with his other hand, popping his knuckles, then repeated. He held his hands together and twisted his arms over his head, popping the joints in his elbows and shoulders. The mare across from him flinched at the sound. Finally, while staring at the guard, he shot his head to the right letting out two loud pops. "My apologies," he spoke to his opponent, as he stood on one leg and pulled the other up behind him, "just limbering up." Hot Start scoffed.

"Whenever you're ready?" Night Flame added, as he stood between them on the outlying grass.

"I'm ready." Wolf replied, bowing to his opponent and settling into a half-assed stance.

"Ready," Hot Start answered, still crouched.

'She sounds young, what the hell is the recruiting age on this planet?'

"On my go," Night Flame bellowed, "Three... Two... One... Go!"

Hot Start shot her wings down and launched herself toward Wolf's chest at an alarming speed. 'Cac naofa!' He had time to think, as he dropped slightly, fully expecting her attack. As the mare began flying overhead he put his plan into action grabbing her midsection, just in front of her hind-legs, causing Hot Start to squeak. He pulled her into his shoulder and wrapped his arms around her. The mare was incredibly light and for all her speed she had almost no physical strength by comparison. Using her forward momentum Wolf arched backward. She struggled for a moment, seeing her impending doom, but with her physiology no amount of contortion could let her escape or lessen the blow. Wolf continued backwards, unable to stop even if he wanted to, so he thrust harder putting all his weight into the Northern Lights suplex. The mare had just enough time to slam her hooves into his back in a last-ditch effort to get away, but it did nothing.

They hit the ground with a dull thud and a heavy metallic clunk.

Wolf quickly rolled off the mare and leapt to his feet. He backed off dropping into a Swarmer stance, with every intention of taking the fight seriously from this point on. He no longer had a plan but he knew how quick she was now. He looked down at the Mare that had yet to move since the suplex. She was still breathing, the rise and fall of her barrel gave her away. He suppressed a laugh, "playing possum will not work on me." She remained motionless. He looked over to Night Flame, his mouth was hanging open, a look of utter shock on his face. Wolf quickly glanced back to Hot Start, then looked to the Princess, her face was a carbon copy of Night Flame.

'Not good.' He thought, quickly dropping his stance, hurrying over to the mare. He dropped to his knees and slid the remaining distance. Wolf rolled the mare onto her side and put his fingers to her neck, 'strong pulse, good.' He fumbled momentarily on the buckle to her helmet but it was gingerly removed, he tossed it aside noticing a sizable dent. He put his palm to her mouth, 'still breathing.' He parted her hair that covered her face now, a small trickle of blood was coming out of her nostril. 'Shit,' Wolf put hid hand on her forehead, using his thumb to lift her oversized eyelid, her eye partially rolled backwards. 'She's out cold.' He looked back to Night Flame, the look of shock still on his face. 'Really!?' He looked back down to the small mare, 'Dammit, I over did it again.

His mind going a mile a minute he did the only thing he could think of, he breathed in and shouted as loud as he could, "Medic!!!"

Author's Note

And that's chapter two. Thank you for your patience and sorry it took so long but life happens.

Also, thank you Wand3r3r3 for letting me use your OC Night Flame and looking over some of Rainbows dialogue.