Paradise Lost: Kill the Memory

Chapters

Chapter 1- Kill the Pests
Chapter 2- Kill the Feeling
Chapter 3- Kill The Past
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
Chapter 6
Chapter 7
Chapter 8- Kill the Invasion
Chapter 9- Kill the Conflict
Chapter 10
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
Chapter 13
Chapter 14
Chapter 15
Prologue

Chapter 1- Kill the Pests

Kill The Memory

Chapter 1:

Kill the Pests

Winds howled out across the desert landscape, the strong breeze blowing up sand in clouds. Amongst the dust storms, a lone figure lay still as the sediments were blown onto his unconscious form. The sands began to build up over his body, hiding him from the burning rays of the sun. After what seemed like hours, the body shifted where he was, his arm coming towards him from his face down, splayed eagle position, the sands building up as his limb scraped along the ground. A long groan sounded out, the figure beginning to draw the rest of his limbs, bringing himself up to his hands and knees, the golden dust falling from his back.

“What… the fuck?” The young man groaned, bringing a hand up to his face as his eyes still burned slightly. He put his hand back to the ground and stared at the shifting sediment beneath him, trying to get his thoughts back together. Several long minutes passed and his memories started coming back. He remembered getting up in the morning… dressing in his cosplay… arguing with John about bringing actual weapons to the convention…that creepy merchant…. His eyes began to widen in realization. “THAT SON OF A BITCH!” He shouted, punching the gritty sediment below him. With his head throbbing with the burst of adrenaline, the man stood to his feet and took a look around.

The sun was beginning to set over the sandy waste, the light glinting off the mesas surrounding him. “Where did that bastard leave me?” He questioned out loud, turning to his right and putting the sun on his left shoulder and started walking North. A few things were certain, he needed a cooler climate or else he was likely to die of heat exhaustion, especially with the heavy long coat draped over him, and he needed to find his friends, wherever they were. “No telling what that creep did to’em….”

He left his footprints in the sand as he went, not turning back as his goal was set… missing a small boulder shift back down into the sand followed by the sound of skittering….

Deep within the ground of the wasteland, the sound of skittering was multiplied a thousand fold, a dull buzz soon joining the sounds as a changeling flew through the underground tunnels, a singular goal in its mind. The drone took sharp turn after sharp turn, navigating the maze with ease before it came to a stop in front of a pulsating green door… or at least what passed for a door for the bug-like race.

“Come in,” a sharp, buzzing voice demanded, the door sliding up and out of the way. The drone stepped through the entrance and toward the one it looked to for direction. The larger male changeling turned his head to look at the smaller drone in front of him. “What did you find?” He asked, his horn lighting up in a form of invitation

The changeling’s horn lit up as its head bowed, establishing a link with the soldier turned breeder. Within seconds, the armored changeling knew about the strange being that had entered their dessert… and the pale pink pony was still traveling their lands. “Interesting…,” he murmured, turning his head away and canceling the link between them. For several long minutes, the big male said nothing.

“Go to the Queen and tell her what you have told me,” he finally ordered in a low, even tone. “And do not let her know that I know. Now, go.”

The drone nodded once more before turning and leaving the private room, its sole inhabitant staying behind, waiting and laying the groundwork for his plans. He smirked as his Queen, Chrysalis, sent out the information throughout the hive. He waited for a moment or two, just as his strategy suggested before wiping the smile from his lips along with the rest of his emotions and igniting his horn to open a connection. He waited some more until the consciousness of his queen slammed into him, demanding his thoughts. He opened the gates to his mind freely, expertly hiding away that which he didn’t want her to find.

Several moments later, she uttered the words he wanted to hear most: Do it. The connection was severed and the smirk returned to his face. He quickly reopened his channel and located those loyal to him and gave them their orders.

Hours. That’s how long he had been walking. The sun had sunk below the horizon and had left the young man to struggle into the chilling night. At least I’m not cooking alive, he thought pointlessly to himself, picking up his odd habit of talking to himself when he was alone or bored.

You’ll probably start freezing soon.

I’ve got a coat, I’ll be fine.

What about your contacts?

I had two pairs seared into my eyeballs. I don’t think they’re coming out.

About that, shouldn’t you be writhing in pain and agony?

How should I kno-

“OOF!” The human fell back as his he ran into something, the air rushing out of his stomach as he hit the ground. “What the hell?” He questioned, rubbing his abdomen a bit.

“What kind of a numbskull walks around out here in the desert at night?” The young man looked up in surprise at the feminine voice. What he found was an utter surprise to him. On the ground sat a pastel colored pony… or, at least, something akin to a pony. She and the signs clearly pointed towards her being female, was a pale pink color, her mane purple mane having a baby blue stripe running through it as she rubbed her forehead with her hand. That’s when he noticed the horn on her head and the pin resembling a shooting star in her hair. A loose, tan cloak was thrown open around her, revealing a long sleeved, white shirt and khaki cargo pants, rolled up a little to reveal her hooves.

The young man blinked as he processed everything he was seeing in front of him… then gave an exasperated sigh and leaned back so that his head hit the sand. “Are you FUCKING kidding me!?!” He shouted into his hands as they rubbed his face.

The mare finally opened her eyes and looked up at him, her eyes blinking a few times as she spotted the boots, army green cargo pants, black sleeveless muscle shirt, and long hunter’s coat. Slowly, her hand fell down to her the sand beside her. “What in Tartarus are you?” She asked, her hand reaching for a staff in the sand that she had dropped, the two prongs facing away from the two of them.

Memories rushed through the young man’s head as he heard the sound of sand on wood, sending off alarm bells in his head. “Don’t,” he said sharply, lifting his hand away and pointing at the unicorn, causing her to freeze where she was, her hand halfway between herself and the staff. The man sat up where he was, giving a loud sigh as he did so. “We can have a friendly discussion without getting violent.” He lifted his head and began to support himself by putting his hands behind him. “To answer your question, I’m a human. What are you?”

The purple maned unicorn slowly brought her hand back to her side and placed it on the sand, her eyes wide. “I’m a unicorn,” she answered flatly, her eyes still a bit spooked.

The young man chuckled a bit darkly. “Okay, unicorn,” he said before bringing his legs into a crossed position and folded his arms over his chest. “You got a name?”

The unicorn was taken somewhat aback by the sudden question, stumbling with her response. “I-I, uh, what?”

“What’s your name, miss unicorn?” The man questioned again, his tone impatient.

The mare was quiet where she was, giving her speaking partner a suspicious look. “Only if you share yours first,” she answered.

The brown headed man looked to the side and gave out a huff of laughter. “You really are going to play hardball, aren’t you?” He questioned, looking back at her as his answer formed itself in his mind; My name is Jeremy Ward. “Hikan Kanshi.” The man blinked his dark green eyes in confusion as the words left his mouth.

The mare looked Hikan over slowly, from his messy mop of brown hair, the bit over his left brow and temple spiked up and colored a honey blonde, down his finely tuned physique, eyes going over his belt where two large knives were visible. The unicorn gulped at this, realizing for the first time just what kind of disadvantage she was actually at. Nervously, her eyes darted to her staff as it still lay in the sand behind her. A sigh wrenched her attention back to the young man before her.

“If it’s really that big of a deal,” he said, gesturing with his hand to the staff. “Go ahead and pick it up. I won’t stop you.”

The pony started a bit at that before she looked behind her at her catalyst, the twisted wood so close she could feel the roughness in her hands. With slow, methodic movements, she reached out and grabbed the staff, drawing it back to her. With the scepter back in her grasp, she let out a little sigh. “Thank you,” she said, looking up at the man before her.

Hikan gave another breath of laughter. “No problem,” he answered, waving a hand in the air dismissively. “I mean, I’m armed, so it’s only fair… but you still haven’t told me your name.”

“Oh,” the unicorn said in surprise, a small blush at her forgetfulness reddening her cheeks. “I’m Starlight Glimmer.”

“And what are you doing out here, miss Glimmer?” The young man questioned, keeping the conversation going after the hours of silence he’d endured.

However, this only drew another suspicious look from Starlight, her grip tightening on her staff. “Why do you want to know?” She asked, her tone low.

Hikan watched her for a moment, his eyes searching before he sighed. “Because I’ve been alone in the desert for hours with only my very confused thoughts for company,” he explained. “I figured making conversation would be less maddening than just sitting here with another warm body nearby. Besides, I don’t have any clue as to where the hell I am.”

The pink unicorn blinked at him as all of this new information was thrown at her. “Are you seriously telling me that you don’t know where you are?” She asked, receiving only a nod in return. She looked at the young man for several minutes before she gave him her answer. “I came out here to burn this,” she said, holding up the staff of sameness. “And to find a rare crystal that only grows in this desert.”

Hikan nodded as he went over what he was hearing. “So, you’re going to burn the staff to try and let go of your past while getting something to get adapted to your new life…,” he said absentmindedly, not realizing he had spoken out loud as Starlight’s eyes widened.

“How did you know that?” She asked, gripping her staff tightly and shifting so she could stand up quickly if she needed to.

The human noticed this as his eyes focused back on her, his hand meeting his face with more than a little force. “Oh, goddamnit,” he muttered before he looked at her with a calm expression. “Look, this is going to be hard to swallow but-” Something buzzed in the back of his mind and he leaped forward, scooping Starlight Glimmer up in his arms and curling over her, tearing her away from the spot she’d been sitting as columns of sand were launched in the air where they had been sitting.

Hikan twisted his body until he was facing the coming threat, depositing the mare below him as he stood slightly crouched over her, his eyes narrowed and searching as a scowl formed on his face. He spotted black arms jerk back into the ground from their previous positions and watched as the sand rose and fell in an obvious path. The trails split around and made to flank them, several others joining them, two of which were much bigger. The hunter stood his ground, taking out the bigger of his two knives, light glinting off the blade with the serrated back as he reached with his other hand for his tristaff.

“Starlight,” he muttered quietly as he watched the trails circle them. “What am I looking at?”

The mare had frozen a bit in place, her eyes wide as everything happened so quickly, her body shivering a bit.

“Star!”

The shout shook her out of her shock as the trails rushed at the pair, closing in fast. “Changelings!” She shouted in response.

Hikan ‘tsk’d’ and wrapped his knife arm around Starlight, his legs drawing in and tensing. The trails reached them and Hikan unleashed his pent up energy, launching into the air with Starlight in tow as sand burst up around them like a geyser. Black figures left the ground, following the human and pony, the sound of buzzing filling the air… but it didn’t last long.

One of the figures dashed forward, aiming for Hikan’s back, only to have a section of wood smashed into its head as the man twisted and brought the links of his weapon down. The other figures followed suit, receiving the same treatment as the hunter spun his body expertly through the air, his staff like a fluid whip with a mind of its own.

The bodies in the air met the ground, Hikan on his feet and the changelings in heaps. The young man put Starlight’s hooves back on the ground so that she could stand on her own, though she still had her arms around his neck in a death grip. “Star, I’mma need you to let go if you want us to live,” he said tapping her on the arm as the drones got back up.

Starlight Glimmer looked up at him with wide eyes, the focus slowly coming back to them before she blinked. “Oh, right,” she muttered getting off of him and stepping back… just in time to not get steamrolled as Hikan was kicked in the back and sent flying.

The human met the sand with his face, sliding a little ways before coming to a stop. He picked himself up and looked behind him to find a soldier class changeling towering over Starlight, his armored carapace shining dully in the moonlight.The soldier hefted a claw as the unicorn stood frozen in place, her staff locked in her hands. The changeling swung down only to stumble back with a skittering cry of pain as its limb was severed from its body, green blood spewing forward and making a mess.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” Hikan sneered, bringing his knife topped staff back up, the blade gleaming in blood. “Did I interrupt something?”

The changeling turned and raised its remaining claw only to have its head removed from its body as Hikan spun his body and connected weapon, cutting through the exoskeleton with ease. “I suppose that’s a no,” he said as his eyes fell on the drones that were beginning to surround him once more. His eyes shifted from one to the other, spotting the other soldier easily among the drones. He swung his spear, the blood leaving the knife edge and splattering onto the ground as he reset his position, the staff of his weapon resting diagonally across his back, his right arm coming up and wrapping around the shaft at the elbow, blade pointed down to his left. The stance looked so nonchalant it was terrifying, especially when matched with the scowling smile on his face.

“Who’s next?”

The simple question rocketed the bug-like creatures into action, each of them hissing as they bared claws. Hikan just smirked with a ‘hmph’. The assassin rushed forward, slashing the knife blade up and through the first with practiced ease, putting it between the armored plates where it got stuck. Hikan’s smirk widened as he used the force of his halting momentum to swing himself up and over, using the dead changeling as an axis. His boots hit the sand and he grabbed the shaft of his weapon in both hands, swinging it around and smacking the other changelings away as their comrade was used as a hammer against them. Hikan swung the body until he brought it to a stop in front of him, putting his foot on its chest as he yanked the blade free.

The soldier, who had only been staggered by the body of its comrade, let out a roar and charged, bringing Hikan’s eyes up to it. The man spun his spear behind his body and slashing it down… only for the bug to grab the weapon by the shaft, stopping it dead.

Hikan’s eyes widened in surprise as the soldier brought its arm back to crush the pest before it. Hikan watched this… until a smirk lit up on his face. “Fisticuffs it is then,” he muttered, drawing back his own fist, the cuff of his sleeve coming up a bit as the amber accents on his black bracer began to glow. The two swung forward, Hikan taking a step forward as the creature’s punch blew past his shoulder. An audible crunch was heard as Hikan was hidden from sight, a black claw exploding from its back as it lurched.

“Uh-oh, was that your spine?” Hikan’s voice questioned mockingly before the soldier was suddenly split in half, green blood shooting forth as the body fell to the side, the sound of the hard carapace tearing echoing as Hikan’s arm came loose.

The young man relaxed, turning a wicked smile at the remaining changelings as the iridescent blood dripped down the black and amber armor on his arm. The armor looked extremely high tech while also resembling the arm of a wyvern, complete with razor sharp claws and wing, the sails between the wings glowing in amber hexagons.

The changelings stared wide-eyed at the monster standing before them. Hikan let his grin fall away and his features returned to his hard scowl. He turned and started towards them, spear in one hand and claws clenching and unclenching. The changelings decided it would be best to survive the night and return to the hive with their information despite the punishment, turning tail and flying away, some diving into the sand to escape.

Hikan stopped in his tracks as the changelings tried to escape. “Now this,” he stated, lifting the wrist of his armored arm as it began to fold and change, a cannon barrel forming over his forearm as an eyepiece formed over his ear and eye, the orange lens glinting as a targeting system locked onto each of the fleeing insectoids. “Is just disgraceful.” With his words uttered, orange lances of energy rocketed forth from the barrel, separating out and arcing toward their targets, a few burning through the sand. Some of the changelings let out screams of pain as the burning beams seared through the middle of all their chests, each of them falling to the ground with smoking holes, blood pooling around them.

The assassin dropped his smoking arm, his expression blank. “Targets eliminated,” he stated robotically as the black armor retracted back to his bracers, which then retracted even further into the basic carry mode, looking like little more than high-tech cuff watches. Suddenly, Hikan’s eyes widened as his scowl fell away, everything that he had just done crashing down around him. His expression became that of fear and he stepped back, stopping when he heard a squelch under his boot. He slowly looked down with shaky movements, letting out a gasp as he saw the pool of green blood he had stepped into.

He quickly turned and stumbled back, his heart pounding in his chest as he stared at his now green footprint. He started to breathe quickly and heavily before a crunch in the sand called for his attention. He lifted his wide gaze to see Starlight staring at the body of the changeling soldier, her arms wrapped around her as she looked she was fighting against herself to run away. Hikan’s breathing slowly returned to normal, his expression turning relatively downcast. He stepped around the body, avoiding the pool of blood as he made his way over to her.

Starlight simply stared at the violence before her, eyes wide and scared until a shadow cast itself over her and a body blocked her view. The mare blinked and looked up to see the saddened expression on Hikan’s face. “C’mon,” he said softly, the voice surprisingly tender for someone who had just slaughtered over half a dozen changelings. “We need to find some shelter…”

The mare stared up at him for a long moment before tears came to her eyes and she nodded, not knowing what else to do. Hikan’s downcast face nodded in response and he turned her around, putting his arm around her shoulders as they walked. As they walked away from the gruesome scene, he couldn’t tell if it was Starlight shuddering or himself….

Author's Note

Hey, guys, welcome to the new fic! This is a project between me and three other authors who go by Naturefang, RedRandom, and Maziodyne. For now though, here's the link to the Prologue if you want to know how our guy got caught up in this mess. Hope you guys enjoy this as much as we do!

Chapter 2- Kill the Feeling

Author's Note

I HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY!!!

I... am upset. Not because this story is not doing well, not because I got a single negative comment on the first, none of that. What has me upset is that someone went after one of my readers when they defended me. This is unacceptable! If you have a problem with me or my stories, that's fine, I can't please everyone, but if you go after my readers, there will be consequences. And if you feel the need to absolutely leave a negative comment about not liking my story, tell me why so I can improve as an author! That is the point of the comment section. And I don't mean something stupid like, "Oh my god, another Displaced story, what a waste of time". That doesn't help and if you don't like Displaced stories, why are you here? There was a clear label in the short description of this story, so why did you click on it?

My rant about being respectful to your fellow FimFic users aside, this chapter is extremely context heavy, meaning absolutely nothing really happens to further the story except understanding the main character that much more. Furthermore, this story will be the last in the chain to get an update meaning that Equestrian Psycho and When the Bass Drops are taking priority over this project. So, with all that said, if you see a mistake, have an idea, or just want to be silly, leave it in the comments. Please, please respect your neighbors, and, until next time, have a good one.

Chapter 2- Kill the Feeling

Chapter 2-

Kill the Feeling

...Calm. That’s the word that Hikan had been searching for the last several hours as he stared into the flames before him. He felt calm… and yet, he couldn’t get the images of his fight from his mind. He tsk’d and drew his knees closer to himself, his arms wrapped around them.

Why are you worried? It’s not like this is the first time you’ve killed something.

But this is the first time I’ve killed something! All those other memories, they’re not mine!

You’re Hikan Kanashi, an assassin of the Revolutionary Army’s Night Raid.

My name is Jeremy Ward, Texan born and bred!

A scuffling shift caught his attention and he cut his back and forth with himself off to look at Starlight Glimmer sleeping on the other side of the fire, tucked away deeper within the shallow cave they had found. Hikan’s eyes softened as he looked at the mare. Poor thing, he thought, his mind going back to their trek. She hadn’t stopped her shuddering until he had gotten her into the shelter and started a fire. It hadn’t taken her long to lay down, and an even shorter amount of time for her to start shivering again. This had led to the young man removing his coat and laying it over her, the shivers stopping soon after.

I wonder what she was more afraid of….

Stop that.

Hikan shook his head and put his chin on his knees, still watching Starlight in her slumber. He stayed like that for he didn’t know how long before the mare finally began to stir. She gave a soft groan and shuffled beneath the heavy coat, her eyes blinking a bit. She slowly lifted herself up into a sitting position with a yawn. She looked around herself blearily, her gaze coming to a rest on the fire before lifting slowly to stop on the young man across from her.

The hunter cracked a small smile and let go of his curled up position, extending one leg as he leaned back and rested his hands behind him. “‘Mornin’, sunshine,” he said with humor laced in his tone.

This only earned him an eye roll and another yawn from the unicorn. “Wheeere are we?” She asked through her yawn in a fairly unladylike manner.

“A little cave I managed to find last night,” Hikan answered simply, adding a little shrug before he looked into the flames and let his smile fall. “How much do you remember from last night.”

Starlight hesitated in her answer, subconsciously drawing into herself and pulling the long coat tighter around her shoulders. “...I remember everything,” she admitted, giving a short shudder. The young man just stayed quiet where he was, not speaking about the massacre he had caused the night before while Starlight stared at him over the fire between them. “...Why did you do it?”

The question caught Hikan by surprise and he looked up at her with a shocked expression. After a few moments, he looked away again in shame. “...I don’t know,” he answered, drawing into himself a little once more. “I just… reacted.” “Reacted?” Starlight repeated skeptically, frowning at him. “A reasonable reaction doesn’t lead somepony to murder others in cold blood.”

“They attacked us first,” Hikan argued, a glint of anger starting to shine in his eye. “What I did was self-defense.”

“Oh, yeah,” the unicorn answered with a roll of her eyes. “That totally justifies you killing all the ones that tried to run away!”

“What the hell do you want from me!” Hikan shouted, his anger clear in his face which caused the mare to flinch. “An apology? An explanation? A promise that I won’t do it again? I’m sorry, but I don’t have anything!” The man huffed for air as he stared at Starlight with his scowl, the pony having scooted back and raised a hand in front of her, eyes wide in fear. After a few moments, he realized he was looking down at her. He took stock of his current position and found that he had stood to his feet and clenched his fists as he had started shouting. His eyes widened a bit and he swung his head to look at the mare on the other side of the fire, seeing the fear in her eyes.

The young man’s face once again fell to that of shame. He dropped his fists, his entire body seeming to go limp as he looked away. “...I’m sorry,” he said quietly, turning and starting to walk out of the cave.

Starlight watched his back for a second before she realized what was going on, her eyes widening. “Wait!” She cried out, standing to her hooves. To her surprise, the young man stopped in his tracks and looked back at her. “Just… just come sit back down.”

Hikan looked at her over his shoulder for several moments, seemingly searching her for something. After the brief pause, he looked away and sighed before turning and going back to sit next to the flames, locking his unfeeling eyes on them.

Starlight Glimmer watched him for several moments before she slid back down to the ground. She glanced away for only a second to watch where her hand went and that’s when she noticed the hunter’s coat that had fallen from her shoulders. The mare paused as she processed the information and what it meant about the being sitting across from her. After a moment, she sighed and lifted the coat up in her magic and moved it around the fire to the man. “This is yours?”

Hikan lifted his eyes wordlessly and, with sluggish movements, took his jacket, light flickering off of the black and orange bracelet on his wrist before he looked back to the flames. This served to catch the unicorn’s attention and she quickly looked to the accessory, her curiosity peaking even as it disappeared in the sleeve of the overcoat. “What are those things?” She asked, nodding to the two devices on his arms.

The man started at that and looked at his wrist at one of the tools. “This?” He asked for clarification, raising his arm and pointing at the circlet with his other hand. “This is my Teigu, Dorkifu.”

“Your whos-a-ma-call-it, whatcha-ma-say?” Starlight questioned, raising an eyebrow in confusion.

Hikan sighed. “My Teigu, or Imperial Arms, Dorkifu,” he said again, saying the words carefully as he put his arms down.

He only received a series of confused blinks. “A Teigu?” She questioned before giving a tired sigh. “I’m going to need more than that.”

The assassin’s eye twitched a bit and he gave a long, deep breath. “A Teigu, meaning Imperial Arm, is an extremely powerful weapon with extraordinary powers and abilities. They were created by a great emperor with the help of the greatest minds and smiths in all the world. These weapons are so powerful that it is said that if two Teigu users clash, only one will walk away.”

Starlight sat silently as she processed this new information. After a moment, she thought she had a good enough grasp on the concept to ask her next question. “And your… Dor-ki-fu is one of these weapons?” She asked, taking great care with the name.

Hikan nodded an affirmative. “Each Teigu is unique,” he began. “Dorkifu is an armor type. From it, I can summon and form armor and weapons that boost my natural abilities. The only drawback is that I can only use a portion of the armor at a time or else I put too much strain on my body.”

“Is that how you were able to defeat that soldier so easily?”

The young man simply nodded his head sullenly. “Yeah, but I was still pretty new to using Dorkifu, so the armor was way to rough and could’ve given rise to the downfall.”

Starlight looked confused. “I thought you said Dorkifu was your Teigu and that it only had one drawback.”

Hikan was silent for a moment. “...That’s… that’s where things get tricky,” he said, starting to bring his legs back to his chest. “I have the memories… I know how to use it… but my body isn’t used to it. I have no muscle memory to go along with my knowledge.”

“That doesn-”

“Let me finish,” Hikan interrupted, raising a hand to stop her. “I’m… I’m not from around here, that much is obvious… but the problem is, this isn’t… I’m not me anymore. When I got… transported, I woke up like this, with new memories from who this body belongs… used to belong to. He knows how to use Dorkifu, and knows what it means to kill… all without invoking the drawback.”

Starlight Glimmer was stunned into complete silence as her mind tried to keep up with everything he was feeding her. “...And the drawback is… what, exactly?” She asked, still wearing her look of confusion.

The hunter gave pause for a time as he figured out what he should and shouldn’t tell her. Eventually, he came to his conclusion. “The first thing you have to realize about Teigu is how they were made,” he began again. “What gives them their powers is the materials they were made from… most of which came from extremely deadly creatures called Danger Beasts. The emperor and his scientists researched the beasts to figure out what they could do, then hunted them down and used parts from them to create the Teigu. Some of the Teigu… are still technically alive.” Hikan paused for a moment, rubbing his hands together. “Dorkifu is one such Teigu… though, that’s more my- his fault. Hikan wanted a Teigu so he could take his revenge on a group of soldiers that slaughtered his village. He searched for a Teigu that would give him the power he needed, but… it was half-destroyed when he found it. In desperation, he searched for ways to reforge it, and he found it in the form of beasts known as Wil-O-Wisps. They were masters of construction and served to rebuild the armor beautifully… but it also healed and revived the original Danger Beast it had been created from….”

By this point, Starlight’s eyes were locked onto the young man as he told his story. “...Then what?” She questioned, sounding much like an enraptured filly, even to her own ears.

Hikan looked up at her for the first time since starting his monologue. He stared at her for a long moment before a smile slowly crept up to his face, suddenly reminded of why he had started writing fanfiction back in his world, to begin with. “The Wyvern, no longer dead within Dorkifu, but alive, fought to control Hikan, but its influence was limited by how much armor was active at one time. Hikan was eventually able to fight the Wyvern and unlock Dorkifu’s full potential… but his body paid the price.”

He fell silent and the quiet permeated the small cave, neither of them wanting to break the spell, Hikan from the fear he had developed and Starlight from her enthrallment. After a few minutes, the mare blinked. “That’s it?” She asked, the spell broken from her as she lifted her head. “How does he do it? How exactly did he get experience.”

Hikan blinked in surprise at this. “You… want to know his story?” He questioned looking at her. “It’s… not exactly a nice story.”

“It’s not like we have anything else to do,” Starlight answered with a shrug. “Besides, you can’t expect life to be all flowers and rainbows for everypony.”

Hikan nodded his head after a moment of silence. “Okay,” he said before shifting a bit to get comfortable… just before lightning lit up the dark sky and thunder crashed in their ears. Hikan winced a bit and he looked over his shoulder just as rain started pouring down, pounding the sand outside the cave. With the storm hammering around them, the young turned his head back to Starlight.

“That’s ominous,” he said, giving a joking chuckle as he rubbed the back of his head.

“Yeah…,” Starlight replied, rubbing her arms for a moment before drawing her cloak in around in place of Hikan’s long coat. “But anyway, what about that story?”

“Right, right,” the young man said, once again fidgeting to get comfortable. “Now, I’m just going to paraphrasing the more important details of his life, or else we’ll be here until next month. Anyway, it all starts in a little village in a great forest. The people there are all hunters, fighters for lack of a better word. Each man was an expert with a staff and knife, and the woman were certainly no pushovers, but, at the end of the day, they were all like family, caring and kind to one another and strangers. It was here that Hikan was born and raised.

One thing that must be understood about the village is that it was within the Borders of a mighty empire, and the villagers did not only support their government, they practically worshiped it. It came as little surprise then that, when Hikan was eleven and a group of soldiers arrived, the soldiers were treated like royalty. They were served the greatest the village could offer, even if they had little to give. The men were ever so grateful for what the villagers had done for them, and they decided to repay them….” Here, Hikan’s tone turned dark and his gaze lowered to the flames once more.

Hikan watched with wide, frightened eyes as another of his village was cut down in front of him, blood spewing forth from the wound the large sword had left behind. The soldier who had cut down the man looked up at the trembling child before him. The man said something that the young boy was too afraid to hear as the murderer stalked closer to him.

A blur of motion came from behind Hikan and engaged the soldier, whose eyes widened in surprise. Several metallic clanks and meaty thuds sounded out alongside the sounds of screaming, fire, and running feet. The armored man fell forward with a loud crash and the figure turned to Hikan and ran back to him.

“Run, Hikan!” His mother shouted taking him by the shoulders and forcing him to look at her. The boy’s breath suddenly escaped his lips and he immediately went into action, turning and running away from the horrific scene, his mother not far behind him, staff in tow. The two ran through the burning night, dancing around the violence raging around them. A second soldier, this one carrying a mace, lunged from the shadows, giving an inhuman roar of bloodlust.

Hikan’s mother rushed forward and engaged the attacker, disabling him with ease in a flurry of movements, first striking his stomach then his face. As the man’s head snapped back and nose broke, the amazonian woman brought her hands closer together at one end of her weapon, spinning once to knock the man’s knees out from under him, and once more to bring the staff down on the back of his neck, an audible crack sounding out as his neck broke.

The woman didn’t stop to celebrate and turned quickly to urge her son on, quickening her pace and putting a hand on Hikan’s back, pushing him forward. Their footsteps were soon joined by raindrops, a flash of lightning and crash of thunder adding to the already grizzly scene as Hikan and his mother ran for their lives… only for a sharp whistling to sound out. Hikan’s mother cried out in agony as an arrow pierced her flesh between her lower back and hip, blood flowing quickly to stain her animal hide dress.

“MOM!” Hikan shouted, stopping and grabbing his mother’s arm as she stumbled to the ground.

She was breathing heavily, her breaths ragged and labored, but she raised her eyes all the same. “Go, Hikan,” she said, her voice tight. “Run.”

Hikan’s eyes widened and tears started forming. “No, mom, please-” he pleaded, only to be stopped as she put a hand on his arm.
“I’m right behind you,” she said tiredly before pushing him. “Now, go!”

Hikan nodded quickly before he turned and continued his all or nothing sprint. He only knew of one place he could go to be safe. Home. He ran through the nightmare that was his village, finally spotting the small cabin that was home to him, his father, and mother. He crashed through the door, shattering the small latch that held the door shut as he stumbled inside. He stood for a moment, breathing rapidly as his eyes darted around before he spotted what he was looking for. He went to the stone fireplace and started pounding on the rocks of the chimney until a hollow thud sounded out. He pulled his hands back for a moment before separating them a bit and lunging in with his fingertips. They scraped against a rough surface that protruded from the rest of the stone and tightened, the boy pulling with all of his strength. The stones ground against one another as the secret hideaway was uncovered. Hikan quickly set the stone cover aside and crawled into the tiny space. He turned as best he could and grabbed the edge of the stone and began to drag it back into place… just as he saw a figure step through the door, the sounds of chaos following close behind it.

The child’s eyes widened and he hastened to put the cover in place, but not before the shadow turned in his direction and lunged at him, grabbing the tablet before Hikan could seal himself in. The young boy wrestled with all of his strength to take back his only hope… but to no avail. The stone was ripped from his hands and he backed into the corner, wrapping his arms around his legs and burying his face in his knees, waiting for the end to come.

“...Hikan….”

The boy’s eyes and head jerked up, a shocked expression spread over his face. “M-mom?”

Hikan’s mother smiled kindly at him, even as a trail of blood led from her lips to her chin. “Hikan,” she repeated, keeping her soft, loving tone. “You must stay here and hide.” She paused and reached behind her, showing off the long, crimson stain going down the lower back and side of her dress, the broken arrow shaft pinning the clothing to her as she grabbed a small bundle and brought it forward. “Take this.”

Hikan brought his hands forward and grasped the roll given to him. “W-wha-”

“Your grandfather’s staff and knife,” his mother explained, giving him yet another smile before she gave him a stern look. “Stay here and don’t come out until you can’t stay here anymore. If anyone finds you, fight back and don’t let them take you. Nod if you understand.”

Hikan was frozen in place for a second or two before he slowly nodded his head in understanding, pulling a little further into himself and drawing one last smile from his mother.

“Good,” the woman said before leaning back a bit and taking the heavy stone in her hands once more. “Stay safe, Hikan, and remember… we love you.” With those words said, Hikan’s world became darkness.

Hikan stared into the flames of the crackling fire as the memory died away. “...The soldiers slaughtered the entire village and razed it to the ground,” he said, looking up in time to see Starlight’s shocked expression. “By the time Hikan left the hidden space, there was nothing left but smoldering ashes, mud… and bodies….”

The mare before him simply stared over the fire at him. “They killed… all of them?” She asked, receiving a nod in return. “...What happened next?”

Hikan continued his chain of silence before looking up at Starlight Glimmer. “He buried everyone in his village,” he began. “Dug the graves and buried them, going so far as to even create grave markers from what he could find… then he hunted the bastards down and slaughtered them in their sleep.”

Starlight gasped and drew back, her eyes wide. “He… he did?” She asked, fear more than obvious in her tone.

Hikan stared at her for a moment before lowering his eyes back to the fire. “No,” he answered. “Though, he certainly wished he had. He did hunt them down and challenged their leader to a duel… but he refused. Instead, he forced the newest recruit of their squad to fight Hikan.... Hikan had no mercy in facing the recruit and beat him soundly, even going so far as to cut a cross in the soldier’s eye. But, before he could land the killing blow, the others ambushed him and held him down while their leader beat him… just to show him that no one crossed the empire and lived.

They left him there to suffer and die, barely clinging to life… and he did so for two days. Just before he would have given in, an old man stumbled upon him and took him back to his own village. Turns out the old man was the leader of the village and he and his granddaughter took care of and treated Hikan until he was back to full health.”

Starlight seemed to take a little sigh of relief. “So, he finally got some help?” She asked and smiled when she received a nod in response… but Hikan was in no way enthusiastic.

“He spent a year there,” the man continued on. “He and the elder’s granddaughter grew close, and, for a while, he could almost forget what had happened… but then the anniversary came around. He couldn’t stop himself… he had to go back. He went back to the grave site of his village and stood before his parents. ...It was here that he formed his resolve. He would still avenge his friends and family, but he knew he couldn’t do anything against the soldiers who had attacked him. Hikan thought long and hard before his memory provided him with the solution. He had seen a book in the old man’s library, the cover untitled, the spine unmarked, and the entire thing wrapped in a dull leather binding. He had picked it up once and opened it to find the details on the creation of extremely powerful weapons. With a single thought in mind, he returned to the village and packed his things before going to the elder’s library and searched for the book… only to find it, missing….”

“Where the hell is it?” Hikan asked, moving books aside roughly on the shelf to find the one he was interested in. After several more moments of searching, he let out a frustrated growl. “Damn it!” He muttered, hitting part of the shelf with his fist.

“Looking for something?”

Hikan spun around in surprise, instinctively bringing a hand to the hunting knife on his belt. He stopped when he saw the moonlight shine off the golden locks of the elder’s granddaughter, Taigari. He slowly relaxed as she smiled at him with the ever-present mischievous look in her purple eyes. “Oh, thank god, it’s just you, Tai,” he said, straightening up. “I’m sorry, I'm just going to do some late night-”

“Hikan?”

“Yeah?”

“Shut up.”

“...Yeah.”

Taigari chuckled and walked over to him in her short straight skirt, tan leggings, sandals and cotton shirt. “You look like you’re about to go somewhere,” she observed as she approached him.

“Y-yeah,” Hikan answered, knowing it was useless to attempt to hide anything from her sharp eyes. “I was planning on going on a little outing.” Then again… he didn’t know how she’d react to him leaving.

“Then why are you in grandfather’s library?” She asked as she circled him, leaving his sight.

“Thought I’d brush up on my medicinal skills,” the young man replied easily. “You know, study a few herbs and stuff.”

“Herbs, huh?” Taigari questioned, her voice directly behind him. “You sure you're not looking for… this?” Something was suddenly thrust into his field of view, and it took him a moment to process just what was in front of him.

“How did you-!?” Hikan started jumping forward and turning around only to see the triumphant smirk on his friends face.

“Feminine intuition,” Taigari bragged, bringing the book closer to her and examining it smugly. “Now,” she turned to look at him seriously, “where are you going.”

Hikan was frozen in place for several moments. “...I’m going away, Tai,” he said quietly. “I’m going to go away and find one of those Imperial Arms, and I’m going to hunt down those bastards and I’m going to-”

“Get yourself killed,” Taigari interrupted sternly. “What are you thinking, Hikan? That you’re just going to run off into the wilderness, dodging Imperial soldiers and Danger Beasts and god knows what else, and then somehow find some random weapon that you don’t know whether or not it works, all so you can find people that almost killed you last year!”

Hikan winced at her words but he soon corrected himself and let his look of steely resolve show on his face. “I have to Taigari,” he said. “I… can’t shake this feeling. I can’t help but feel like I need to do this, so… I’m going and I need that book.”

The girl stared at him for several moments before glancing at the book in her hand and back at him. “No,” she said simply, stunning her friend.

Hikan stared at her with wide eyes before his face became angry. “Taigari…,” he said in a low tone, taking a step forward… only to stop as the blonde raised her hand.

“I’m not giving you this book,” she said before giving her mischievous grin. “So you’re just going to have to take me with you.”

“Tai’s grandfather met them at the gate,” Hikan stated, looking up from the flames to observe Starlight’s reaction. To say the least, he wasn’t surprised.

Starlight Glimmer’s smile lit up the small cave more than the fire. “So Hikan went on his travels with Taigari and they found an Imperial Arms?” She questioned, her voice positively buzzing with excitement. This delight only grew as Hikan gave a small nod and smile of his own.

“They spent six years searching for an Imperial Arms,” he stated. “They grew closer with each passing day, and, eventually, that closeness blossomed into something more. So much more.” Hikan gave a breath of laughter and shook his head slightly as his gaze grew distant. “Tai was so… fiery. She had a life to her that always recharged my more… downtrodden personality….” He stopped and looked up to see Starlight staring at him strangely. “What?”

“You said ‘my’ that time,” the unicorn pointed out, causing the young man to blink in confusion.

“I… I did?” He asked, receiving an affirmative nod from her. “Oh… I apologize for breaking the immersion.”

“No, no, it’s fine,” Starlight said, waving her hands rapidly in front of her. “Just thought I’d point it out. Please, keep going.”

Hikan gave a short chuckle and raised a hand to calm her back down. “Okay, okay,” he said, his little bit of humor reaching his voice and getting the mare to calm herself to a reasonable level. “They didn’t exactly find an Imperial Arms. What they found was fragments, the broken up remains of an armor type Teigu called Dorkuhato. Luckily, and only thanks to the book they’d been given, they had the knowledge needed to not only repair but even upgrade the armor. So, they did. It was surprisingly easy for them and they finally started to return home after their six-year journey, their new creation in tow….” Hikan’s smiling expression suddenly died away again and he stayed silent… very silent.

Minutes ticked by and still the quiet persisted to the point that Starlight began to grow worried. “Hikan, are you…?”

Hikan looked up suddenly and wiped his face quickly of the streams running down it. “I’m fine,” he said, his voice tight and wobbly. “But, uh, I think that’s enough for tonight.”

“Hikan.” The hunter rose his eyes up to meet the worried gaze of the unicorn he had come to think of as a companion. “...What happened?”

The words that came from Starlight shook him for some reason. Something about her tone… something in the way she formed the words. Slowly, Hikan felt his mouth begin to move on its own and he suspected magic, but a quick glance at her horn told him he was wrong. “We made camp for the night,” he began. “We were so… joyful that we were almost home. We decided to crack open a bottle of wine that we had gotten during our travels. Nothing too much, just a few drinks apiece. Unfortunately, what we thought was an easy drink wasn’t. The guy we bought the stuff from was known for selling alcohol that was much, much stronger than what he said it was. We were wasted in minutes. And that’s when…,” Hikan trailed off and gave a sniff, wiping his nose on his sleeve before wiping away a few tears with the palm of his hand. “That’s when we made a mistake… we didn’t watch our backs….”

Taigari laughed loudly as she held her wooden cup high, rocking back a bit in her mirth. Hikan, on the other hand, was looking rather pouty with his own ‘wine’ held between his clasped hands. He didn’t even brighten up when his girlfriend nudged him with her elbow. “Oh, c’mon, Hickey,” she teased, using the nickname she’d given him after their first night truly spent together. “It was funny!”

“Maybe to you…,” Hikan muttered, looking away a bit. “I didn’t exactly find it humorous when I tripped over that tree root….”

At the mention of the tree root, the young woman exploded into yet another fit of laughter. “You were so embarrassed! It was like watching a poor puppy fall over for the first time!”

Tai’s laughter only made Hikan sink his head down even further, his blush growing even brighter on his face. “It wasn’t funny,” he muttered before looking up at her. “And what about all the times you fell over?”

Taigari’s laughter halted suddenly and she looked at Hikan, a hurt look on her face. “Why’d you have to bring that up?” She asked, a bit of an ache in her voice… until her face lit up again. “Oh, I know why….”

The sudden shift from hurt to soft and sultry caught the young hunter’s attention and he looked up at her only to find her staring at him with lidded eyes and was starting to crawl towards him on the log she’d been sitting on while Hikan sat on the ground with his back to said log. “Tai…,” he said slowly, turning and starting to push himself back, away from the extremely predatory look his girlfriend was giving him. “What’re you-”

The young man let out a sudden gasp as Taigari lunged at him, pinning him to the ground as her long blonde hair hung down and tickled his face. “Oh, you don’t like it when I jump your bones,” she purred, coming a bit closer to his face. “But when it comes to me, you just aren’t all that shy in trying to get some.”

“Th-that’s not-” Hikan tried to argue only to find a soft finger on his lips as Tai shushed him.

“Just admit it, Hikan,” she said, her purr still present behind her words. “You really, really want me right now….”

The young man gulped a bit at how suddenly aggressive Taigari had become… but he wasn’t struggling against her anymore. Tai noticed the change in his demeanor and removed her finger from his lips only to place her own there in a soft kiss. Hikan closed his eyes and sank into the kiss, matching his girlfriend’s passion with his own which only caused her to pour out more, resulting in an endless cycle. The simple, soft kiss quickly evolved into something much more heated. It soon became painfully obvious that the young woman was straddling him as she began to move her hips back and forth teasingly.

Hikan lost touch with reality as his senses were overwhelmed by Taigari’s stimulation. The deep kiss held him enraptured as she held him down tight to the ground. He could feel his lust growing like a wildfire through him. The intensity grew and grew until a buzzing filled his ears, making his senses go numb to everything else but the woman on top of him. The kissing and grinding continued for several moments, Hikan’s drunken mind swimming with pure ecstasy… until Taigari pulled away with a small gasp.

Hikan simply laid there with his eyes closed, a happy smile on his face as he breathed a little heavily. The seconds ticked by and Hikan’s heart slowed to a steady beat before he started to open his eyes. “Ready to take it up-” The young man froze as he looked up at Taigari’s wide, frightened eyes. Her body jerked as the sound of tearing flesh echoed through the air and she slumped forward. Hikan’s own eyes widened and he brought his arms up and wrapped his hands quickly her. That’s when he felt it. The sticky, warm sensation of blood between his fingers.

Hikan’s eyes widened further and he lifted his hand to stare at it, finding a thick coating of the life essence over the appendage. And yet the buzzing still continued. Hikan suddenly lifted his eyes from his hand to see a blur of motion coming towards them. Hikan tightened his arms around his girlfriend and rolled out of the way just as something slammed into the ground where they had been moments before.

Hikan pushed his weight off of Taigari, and twisted into a kneeling position, cradling the young woman’s head in his arms. Hikan looked at her for a moment before lifting his gaze and finally discovering the source of the buzzing in his ears.

In front of him was a brown creature that stood a little below waist level with armor-like chitin plates covering its body. The monster before him was all brown, armored plates covering its elongated body. Two sets of arms ending in sharp, three clawed hands extended from either side, just under its dome-like head, an insect-like face extending forward with a pair of glowing red eyes over vicious mandibles. A set of insect-like wings buzzed across its back as it yanked its claws out of the dirt.

An Earth Wyrm, Hikan realized, recognizing the minor species of Earth Dragon. By themselves, they weren’t very effective unless they caught you in an ambush… but that’s where the problem lay. They rarely hunted alone. The young man’s eyes looked up from the monster before him to the surrounding woods and found the glints of many a red eye, all of which were trained on him.

The buzzing in his ears suddenly grew from behind him and he reached behind his belt and grabbed his tristaff, expertly flicking his wrist out and setting down Taigari’s head, rising up and slinging the linked rods around as his body twisted. The furthest link slammed into the side of the wyrm trying to charge him from the rear. As Hikan’s eyes fell on the beast, the sound of buzzing filled his hearing to his rear left. He turned and with deft movements he flicked the staff in the direction of the next pest, slamming it down over the head of the wyrm with enough force to send it into the ground, blood spilling from the resulting wound on its head.

In an instant, Hikan knew he had made a mistake. All the other eyes that had simply been waiting for him to wear down rushed him altogether, the added smell of more blood in the air breaking their resolve. The hunter’s eyes widen and he flicked his wrist as his other hand went to the knife on his belt. The staff snapped together and Hikan brought the two weapons together, forming the spear he had grown proficient in using. He spun the bladed weapon around his body, acting as a blender for anything that got too close to him and Taigari. Unfortunately, his drunken state was causing far too much excess movement, quickly drying up his energy. Sweat poured down his face as blood filled the air, the bodies of dozens of the small Danger Beasts littering the ground around him.

His spear was suddenly whistling through the air, no sounds of crunching chitin or splitting flesh following it. Hikan lifted his gaze and brought his weapon to rest. The blade pointed down and the staff rested diagonally across his back as he looked at the crowd around him. The wyrms were gathered in a circle around him, their wings buzzing every once in awhile as their mandibles clicked. They were waiting, and the young man knew exactly what it was they were waiting for. A slip-up. Hikan widened his stance and slowed his heavy breathing, narrowing his eyes as his face distorted into a scowl. Buzzing filled his right and he smoothly brought his left hand up to the butt of the staff extending from over the same shoulder. His feet and legs twisted and he brought the spear up and over his head, splitting first the skull of the Earth Wyrm charging his right from bottom to top before his follow through skewered the monster trying to sneak in on his left. However, he didn’t count on the third insect-like dragon following directly behind its unfortunate comrade.

Hikan’s chest was fully exposed to the reared back claws of the beast as it approached, and for a split-second, the man’s mind panicked. This was it. This Earth Wyrm was going to plunge its claw into his chest and tear out his heart, and he and Taigari would be gone. His wide eyes watched and a few tears formed in his eyes… until a metallic whistle sounded through the air and a thin red line traced diagonally across the center of the beast. Blood spewed out as the wyrm dropped to the ground, split perfectly in half.

“C-c’mon, Hikan,” Tai said, slumping to lean on him for a moment, her tonfa blade dropping to her side. Her blood stained lips parted in a small grin. “Don’t get sloppy on me now.”

Hikan’s shocked gaze looked at her for a moment before a blur of motion behind her caught his attention. His body moved on its own, spinning and hefting his spear to slash the approaching wyrm horizontally, severing its head from the rest of its body. Hikan came to a stop behind Taigari and she pressed her back against his, raising her bladed weapons up as the Earth Wyrms tensed up around them.

Hikan heard Taigari give a huff of laughter. “Just like old times, huh?” She asked as she raised her blades.

Hikan was quiet for a second before his scowl turned into a smirk. “Yeah,” he replied before the Danger Beasts rushed them and they ran to meet them. Hikan’s world became a blur as he twirled his spear about, the blade slicing through chitin like paper and sending bloody mist into the air. He caught very few glimpses of his girlfriend as she fought her own battle across the glade, but those he got brightened his hope of them getting out of this. A scratch along his cheek brought him back to his own fight and he attacked with a new vigor.

It wasn’t long before the glade was little more than a mess of body parts and blood. Hikan stood on his side of the clearing, breathing heavily as he held his spear in his hands and small streams of blood ran down his arms and chest from the small scratches and scrapes he had received. His body shook with exhaustion, and his mind still swam in small fits of drunkenness. He let the butt of his weapon fall to the ground, leaning heavily against it as he turned to face the rest of the battleground. Taigari cut down the last Earth Wyrm as his gaze found her, her weapons glistening in the red life of the beast.

The hunter’s tired features turned into a smile and he picked his staff off the ground before walking across the glade towards his partner… only to rush forward and throw his weapon away as she began to collapse. He only just managed to slide on his knees and catch her before she hit the ground, cradling her head and torso. “Tai?” Hikan said worriedly, moving a bit of her hair out of her sweat covered face. “Come on, talk to me, Tai….”

Taigari slowly opened her eyes and looked up at him with a smile. “Did ya get’em all?” She asked jokingly, her voice a little strained through heavy breathing.

Hikan laughed half-heartedly at her attempt at a joke. “Yeah,” he answered, using his thumb to rub her shoulder comfortingly. “Yeah, we got’em.”

Tai’s little smile grew a little and she closed her eyes, relaxing her body. “Good…,” she muttered quietly, causing Hikan’s worry to skyrocket.

“Taigari, stay with me,” he said, shaking her a bit, causing her eyes to open a bit and look at him. Hikan returned her gaze with his own, fighting back his own tears. “I’m going to get you out of here, just stay with me.”

Tai’s eyes came back into focus and she hardened her face into one of determination before she sat up on her own power with a groan, Hikan leaving a hand in the small of her back as she did so. “I’ll hold on,” she said, her voice tight with pain. “For you, I’ll hold on. Help me up.”

Hikan nodded and stood up, helping her gently to her feet before turning his back to her and offering his back. “I’ll carry you to the village,” he said softly. He heard her soft footsteps step forward just as the first drop of rain hit his face. He waited patiently for her to climb up, ready to get her home to get patched up, refusing to lose another loved one. And then everything happened at once.

A skittering sound lit up his senses to his rear left and it was followed by the hastened steps of Taigari. He started to turn his head in alarm and straighten up, only to feel a pair of hands press against his back and shoving him forward. Hikan hit the ground and rolled on his side, coming to a stop and looking up as buzzing and the sound of ripping clothing filled the air. The young hunter’s eyes widened in shock at what he was seeing. An Earth Wyrm, one arm and wing missing and a slash across its back flew through the air, a claw extended as blood followed it from the large gashes that now ran slightly diagonally across her chest. Time slowed down as Tai, wyrm, and blood fell to the ground, Hikan having to watch every instant.

Hikan was frozen as the rain began to pour down even faster around him. A flash of lightning and crash of thunder shook him from his paralyzed state as the Earth Wyrm rose back up to its feet. His surprised eyes turned angry and he leaped to his feet, giving a roar of rage as he lunged for the dragon, only to be knocked away like a ragdoll by two of the beast’s arms. The hunter landed solidly on his back, knocking all the wind from his lungs and causing a burst of color to envelop his vision. The sound of skittering and buzzing caught his attention just in time for him to throw up his hands and catch the mandibles of the jaw trying to come down on his throat. The wyrm and man struggled against one another, one’s jaws snapping open and closed while the other’s hands began to bleed from the sharp, thorn-like protrusions all over the mandibles.

The wyrm was slowly beginning to beat the human’s struggles, pressing forward slowly. Hikan’s mind began to panic and he started to throw his eyes around, looking for some way to defend himself. He spotted his spear off to his right but it was too far away to reach. Hikan raised his eyes back up to the slobbering jaws trying to end his life. He was frozen. The feeling of impending death brought back only one memory….

Lightning flashed in the night sky and Hikan came back to reality. He looked passed the bug towards Taigari’s motionless body, the rain forming furrows that allowed streams of red to flow from the young woman. The gravity of the situation hit him, turning his face into shock then into rage.

Green eyes turned back to the monster on top of him, his scowl returning in full force. He would get out of this and he would save Taigari. He owed her that much. The Earth Wyrm surged forward and Hikan jerked his hands left, guiding the monster's jaws to snap next to his ear. The beast pulled back and the hunter could feel it tense up for another strike. Another bolt of electricity lit up the night and a pair of glints off the bracelets on his wrists got his eyes. Hikan’s gaze narrowed and he looked up into the Danger Beast’s eyes. The snapping mandibles and jaws suddenly stopped and the monster stared at him with confused eyes as a dangerous smirk quirked Hikan’s features.

“Voice activation,” Hikan said in a low tone, the accents of the bracelet suddenly glowing with amber light. “Code word… slaughter the heartless.” The glowing circlets radiated pure energy as bright lines traced themselves like digital trails down the young man’s arm and across his back, black armor following soon after and solidifying. Amber energy raced from where the armor had begun to form, filling up little trails across the armor and injecting a new, burning strength into Hikan. The Earth Wyrm, realizing something was very off, began to struggle, trying desperately to get away only for the man’s reinforced hands to hold it in place by its mandibles.

Realizing there was no escape, the beast reared back the one remaining claw on its right side and throwing it down to skewer the young man… only to find its claw held in the hand of the hunter. Hikan’s right hand suddenly shot across, his fist slamming into the side of the monster’s face before twisting and grabbing it by the left side of its head. The man jerked his hands in opposite directions, straightening the beast out and causing it to screech in pain as its arm was stretched to its limit. The sounding of splitting chitin filled the air alongside its screams, tearing flesh soon joining the symphony.

Hikan watched on, his scowl becoming a grimace before he let out a yell of rage and tore limb from host, blood spurting from the wound and splashing over him. The monster gave a strangled cry as it was tossed away, landing with a thud that cut off its cry as a pool of red formed beside it.

Hikan watched as the Earth Wyrm lay still for a while before it started struggling to haul itself away with its remaining arms. The young man simply stared for several moments before giving a snort of irritation and standing to his feet. He turned slightly further right than where the monster had landed and started to walk slowly over to his spear, throwing away the arm in his hand with contempt. He came to a stop and squatted down, taking his spear in his hand before straightening back up. He faced the monster once more, finding a crimson trail leading from the large pool of blood that had formed, the Earth Wyrm on the other end as it made its slow escape. The hunter tsk’d and started forward, easily catching up to the injured monster before angrily stomping a boot down on its back, filling the air with a pained scream and the sound of cracking chitin as Hikan felt the flesh beneath begin to give way.

For several moments he stood there, listening to the danger beast’s cry before rearing his spear back and thrusting it down into the suffering creature’s head. The blade pierced the base of the skull, going through easily and throwing up another spurt of red liquid. Hikan let go of staff and removed his foot, staring down at his prey before him… before a shuffling sound and small gasp got his attention.

With widened eyes, Hikan spun around and sprinted back to Taigari, dropping to his knees beside her and gently picking up her shoulders with one arm while his wrapped around and supported her waist. The woman’s breathing was ragged and labored, her chest quivering as it rose and fell, her eyes unfocused and glazed over. Hikan stared down at her with fear in his eyes as his jaw trembled. “T-Tai?” He stuttered out, hoping for some sort of response.

“...Hikan?”

The young man gasped as Tai’s distant gaze settled on his face. “Y-yeah, it’s me, Tai,” he said quietly, giving a shaky chuckle even as tears built up and spilled out over his face. “I’m here, don’t worry.”

Taigari stared up at him for several long moments before she sighed deeply. “It’s cold, Hikan…,” she muttered, her own tears forming and running out of the corners of her eyes. “...Is it raining, Hikan?”

The young man was silent for a moment before he raised his face to the sky, letting huge droplets slam into his eyes, nose, and mouth before looking back down to his love. “...Yeah, it’s raining,” he answered, looking her in the eyes.

“Oh…,” the young woman breathed, eyes giving a slow blink as she turned her head to look at the sky. “I always hated the rain…. Hikan?”

“...Yeah?”

“Don’t cry too long.”

Hikan let out a breath of surprise and jerked his head a little. He opened his mouth and tried to argue, only to stop as a hand touched softly on the side of his face, drawing his attention back to her as she gave him a soft smile. “Don’t keep your mind on me…,” she said. “Keep going on… and live, Hikan. Live a full, happy life, and never stop to look back…. If not for you… please, do it for me.”

Hikan was quiet for a long moment as he struggled to swallow the forming knot in his throat and tears flowed unrestricted down his face. “I-I will,” he finally promised, his voice strangled. “I promise I will, Taigari.”

Taigari looked up at him with her happy smile, her purple eyes lighting up for just a moment as she pressed her palm a little more into his cheek, causing him to close his eyes a little as he brought up a hand to press against her’s. “I know... you will,” she said, her breaths coming slower and slower. It was obvious she was struggling to stay conscious, her body giving another shudder as she forced herself to hold on just a little longer. “Hi… Hikan…. I… I love… yo….”

Hikan’s eyes opened to their fullest as he felt her hand go limp in his own. He looked down at her face to find her eyes still half open and mouth agape, frozen as if there was still something she needed to say. Hikan grimaced as he stared at her, slowly lowering her hand to rest on her waist before bringing his own fingers up to her face and softly closing her eyes and mouth. As he moved his hand back, he realized that she almost looked asleep. Hikan’s grimace grew and he closed his eyes tightly, the tears still flooding down. Lightning flashed and he threw his head back, joining the crash of thunder with his cry of sorrow and pain.

Starlight stared over the fire at Hikan, tears built up in her eyes as the salty droplets ran freely down the man’s face. They were quiet for a long time as the rain pounded outside, howling winds and booming thunder adding their voices. The mare dropped her gaze from the man, drawing a bit into herself as she wrapped her arms around her knees. “Hikan, I’m-”

“That’s it for now.”

Starlight looked up in surprise to find the tears gone from his face, his face neutral. Her mind came to a complete halt as she tried to figure out how the saddened man could do a complete one-eighty in attitude. She was still processing this when said man stood to his feet and walked towards the entrance of the cave. He stopped right before sand that was darkened by rainwater, putting his back to the wall and sliding down so that he was sitting on the ground again. He leaned over and reached down his side with his right hand and drew his knife, lifting it up underhanded and stabbing it into the sand before looking off into the rain.

“I’m going to get some sleep,” the assassin said quietly, his voice even and toneless. “When the storm clears, wake me up and we’ll get going.”

Starlight watched the young man lean his head against the wall and go still. She was still trying to wrap her head around how he could go from such a strong sorrow to being like the war machine that had slaughtered the changelings earlier. She looked down into the fire once more, wondering what else could have possibly happened to him to allow him to flip the switch so easily from emotional being to heartless killer. On the other side of the cave and unknown to her, droplets of water were slowly adding themselves to already wet and dark sand that was within the rain’s grasp.

Chapter 3- Kill The Past

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 4 Author's Note

Bit of a side note that I forgot to add at the little excerpt at the end of the last chapter, Dorkifu has a spirit of a Danger Beast inside of it constantly trying to take over Hikan. Thanks to his multiple uses of Aces, the process has accelerated to dangerous levels. Anyway, enjoy.

Chapter 4

Hikan lay sleeping on his bed, the sunlight filtering through the curtains of the inn he and Starlight had stayed in over the night. His resting was peaceful, content, only the rise and fall of his chest disturbing his otherwise still form. It was in this bliss that he was unaware of the figure towering over him. The shadow stared down at him without any form of emotion before it started to lean forward. Ever so slowly, it approached his face. A single hand reached up, moving towards his side… and poked him.

“Hiiikaaan…,” a soft, feminine voice said. “...WAKE UP!!!”

The man jolted awake, his body reacting the only way it knew how. He launched towards the ceiling, instinctively turning in midair as Dorkifu formed claws over his hands, embedding said claws into the roof. Hikan’s eyes stared widely at the bed below, breaths coming heavily as he searched for the source of his fright… only to spot Starlight Glimmer standing next to his bed, arms crossed and hoof tapping in impatience.

“We’re late,” was all she said as she looked up at him.

Hikan just stared at her before blowing out a breath and wrenching a claw out of the ceiling to rub his face. “Damn it, mare, you couldn’t have let me sleep? Seriously, this is the first bed I’ve come across since being here!” “Well excuse me for wanting to catch the train home,” the unicorn replied as the man nimbly unattached himself from the ceiling and dropped to the floor. “Get dressed and be quick about it.” All of his clothing except for the pants he currently wore slammed into his face as she walked towards the door, turning and planting her back against the frame to stare at him.

The hunter stared back at her. “...What, you’re not going to give me some privacy?” He asked snarkily.

“It’s a shirt, coat, and boots. There’s literally nothing to be shy about.”

“Touche,” Hikan muttered as he pulled on his gear. After a few minutes, he stood in the room as if he had never even slept at all. “There. Happy?”

“Happier,” Starlight answered gruffly as she turned to leave the room… only to stop as she noticed something on his bedside table. She looked at the old, black pocket watch. “Is that yours?” She asked, gesturing towards the victorian style timepiece.

Hikan raised an eyebrow and scoffed as he stepped towards the table. “Remember that one time when you asked me for the time and I couldn’t tell you because I didn’t have a watch?”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever, smartass,” Starlight said as she rolled her eyes and walked towards him and the table. “Thought you might have picked it up at the market or something.”

“Well, I didn’t so no,” he answered, sticking his tongue out at her for a second before picking up the pocket watch. Immediately, an old, gravely voice entered his mind, speaking a long dead language.

“Aetas Imperium In Imperio,” it said simply, before in a puff of light blue and white smoke, a card appeared on the table. It had a gold wax seal with a symbol of an eye surrounded by a cog. On it, were the words, in English this time, “Come to Eravale if you seek wisdom. Come to Eravale if you seek strength. Come to Eravale if you seek adversity. Or simply come for tea and a gift of your choosing. Press the wax seal to accept the invitation.”

Hikan blinked rapidly before shaking his head rapidly. “Okay, not cool,” he muttered as he kept Dorkifu in check.

“What?” Starlight questioned, looking between him and the invitation. “What is that?”

Hikan rubbed his temples with one hand before looking back at slip on the table. “...An invitation,” he muttered, a frown forming on his face as he put a finger to the invitation’s seal. Suddenly, an array of glowing cogs surrounded the two, and a bright light covered their forms, until they arrived in an area that made them stop and stare in shock and awe.

They were in what could only be called an indoor garden, though flower field was more accurate. The sun hung high in the sky, and clouds passed overhead, but the flowers were what really stole the show. They were shaped like cogs, and would turn every now and again when the wind blew, letting sparkling drops of water leave their petals, but instead of simply falling to the ground, they would drop and then turn into little fairies. And on a hill, with a white and gold grand piano, sat a tall man in flowing white, gold, and blue robes, his hair a mixture of gold, silver, and light blue, and the robes containing cogs that moved every so often.

He played a beautiful yet sad song as the whole world remained silent, the fairies flitting to and fro around him and the two, his eyes closed. He flowed from one key to another without fail, and when the song ended, he opened his eyes and looked towards the two, smiling warmly.

Hikan and Starlight stared at the man before Hikan pushed the mare behind him, reaching for his tristaff. “Who’re you and what is this place?” He asked, voice carrying suspicion as his eyes darted from one place to another.

“Be calm, young one. There is nothing to fear here, lest you fear good company,” the man said calmly, standing up to his full eight foot height. “I am Stateran. And you, are Jeremy, as well as Hikan. An assassin, but I have welcomed those with less savory lives before.”

“Would you stop doing that!?” Hikan barked, putting a hand to his head as Dorkifu surged up again. “Damn it, this is hard enough as it is. Also, if you know so much, then you’ll know that good company has tried to stab me in the back on more than one occasion, so you’ll excuse me for being cautious.”

“I’ll admit I do. ‘Tis the nature of the world you live in to have good company betray you. But this is not your world. This…” Stateran swept his arms out. “...Is Erevale, Realm of Balance, Creation, Destruction, and Time. My home.”

Hikan searched the man before him with his eyes, his look of suspicion not fading… until Starlight put a hand on his shoulder. “I think… we should listen to him, Hikan,” she said softly, drawing his attention. For a moment, he didn’t react, but after a moment, he relaxed a bit, taking his hand away from his weapon. Stateran’s smile grew.

“Thank you, Miss Starlight. Now, how do you two feel about tea? I have some lovely Earl Grey and Jasmine,” he offered, motioning to an immaculate white and gold decorated table near a lake with glittering gemstones near it that had a tea set resting on it, three chairs around it.

“Jasmine.” “Earl Grey.”

Hikan and Starlight looked at each other in surprise at their differing tastes in tea… before frowning. “Earl Grey,” Starlight said again, a bit more forcefully.

“Jasmine,” Hikan replied, not lowering his gaze and causing the mare to huff.

“You’re so contradictory, you know that?” She said, putting her hands to her hips.

“At least I’m not snobbish!”

“You found me in the middle of the damn desert, covered in sweat, sand, and enough regrets to sink a ship!”

Stateran snapped his fingers, causing lightning to boom across the sky, startling the two.

“Enough. I invited you here for geniality, not hostility,” he said sternly.

Hikan looked up just as suddenly as the lightning strike while Starlight still looked a little miffed. “...We apologize,” the mare said, giving a little bow of her head.

Hikan just kept staring until Starlight’s hand whipped out and tagged him in the stomach. “O-oh, yes, I’m sorry we started arguing,” he said quickly, giving his own bow, which was more of a traditional japanese bow than Starlight’s head bob. Stateran’s smile returned.

“Good. Now, come, there is much to discuss, and I’d rather it were over beverages,” he said as he started to walk towards the table. As he did, the fairies around him and the two danced about them, chittering and chattering in their high-pitched language.

Hikan’s eyes darted towards the fairies surrounding them as he followed Stateran towards the table. “What’re they saying?” He asked, slight fear creeping into his voice.

“Hm? Ah, you mean the Time Fae. They are speaking of your future, the many timelines spawned by your arrival in your world, and the many possibilities they hold,” Stateran explained before adding with a small grin. “As well as what kind of boxers you wear. They are mischievous that way.”

“Black with tiger stripes,” Hikan replied unfazed as he rolled his eyes. “Can everything in this place read my personal life like a book?”

“Well, no, there are those in the Colosseum,” Stateran admitted. “But we’ll get to that later. Come, sit, drink.”

Hikan and Starlight came to sit at the table, taking seats next to each other, the mare putting her hands in her lap while the assassin but his forearms on the table and leaned forward a bit. “Sooo…,” Starlight began, patting her legs a few times. “What exactly did your invitation mean?”

“Just as it said. Erevale offers many things. Challenges in the Colosseum for those who wish for training, teaching to those who wish for wisdom, and much more. As for the initial message, well, that is simply a greeting to any fellow god,” Stateran explained. He picked up one of the teapots, pouring some tea for the two as well as himself, though they noted his was of a far different color than either of theirs.

Hikan raised his eyebrow a bit as he watched Stateran. “So, I could ask for training, wisdom… or a gift?” He asked for clarification. Stateran nodded before he took a sip of his tea.

“Indeed. Though, I do have a recommendation that you obtain all three. The gift coming last,” Stateran recommended.

“So let me guess,” Hikan said, putting a hand gently over Starlight’s tea cup as she started to lift it to her lips and guiding it and her hand back down. “I have to go through some sort of godly trials to achieve strength, wisdom, and then whatever I so choose. And, supposedly, there’s no strings attached. Correct me if I’m wrong.” Stateran frowned at the young man’s tone.

“Yes. And there is no strings attached, save for me wanting someone other than the disciples who do nothing but praise me instead of consider me a real person,” Stateran answered. “I can’t say I’m surprised at your distrust, but I do not lie. Not anymore. It’s been countless millennia since I have.”

Hikan sighed and looked away for a second. “...There are ways to lie without directly doing so,” he said before looking back. “...But I understand being put on a pedestal, too. So, pass the trials, stay your buddy-pal, and all will be well in the world?” Stateran nodded, taking another sip of his tea.

“Indeed. To be honest, if you do not wish for the trials, I do not mind simply having you here to talk. Tis nice to not be called, ‘Great Being’, over and over again like a broken record. It gets quite tiresome, both on the soul and mind,” Stateran admitted.

“That’s why we moved to the mountains,” Hikan muttered before clearing his throat for a moment. “...Why not both? I- we could use some time to relax.” He looked over to look at Starlight only to find her staring at him with an irritated expression as he still held his hand over her tea. “Sorry,” he said quickly, jerking his hand back. Stateran smiled wide.

“Wonderful. It will be nice to have company. I will show you to your rooms soon,” Stateran said. Suddenly, the sound of booming steps and the earth shaking interrupted him. Hikan and Starlight looked around to see two massive turtles approaching, one much larger than the other.

The smaller one had a resemblance to a Mississippi Map, and the larger one had resemblance to a Red-Eared Slider. Both had runes all over their shells, and the larger one’s shell looked to have been through quite a bit, malformed as it was. Stateran smiled as he turned his head to the two.

“Ah, Neilaas, Yorrik, how are my little Defenders doing?” he said genially. They walked up to him and nuzzled the man, cooing. It was of note that they were properly massive for turtles of any kind, taller than him by at least three feet and much wider and longer.

“Little?” Starlight muttered in question as she leaned towards Hikan.

“Defenders?” Hikan returned, eyes going to the turtles as his thoughts constantly went back to every Danger Beast he had ever seen and slain. Stateran chuckled as they nuzzled him more, the larger one even licking him.

“Calm down now, calm down,” he said, and they did as told. He turned to the other two. “These are my pets, Neilaas,” he gestured to the larger turtle. “And Yorrik.” He gestured to the smaller one. “I’ve known Neilaas since my parents saved her and I gave her a home at five years old, and Yorrik since he was a baby. They’ve been the last remaining friends I’ve had in this place for over twenty millennia. They are also my Defenders, a title gained from defending me and my brothers from the Demons of Hell about fifty millennia ago.”

Hikan’s brows went up. “Damn… those are some badass turtles,” he said in awe, drawing a look of annoyance from Starlight as she rolled her eyes.

“You are such a wordsmith, Hikan,” she muttered before putting her half-empty tea cup down and standing to her hooves, walking towards Stateran and his Defenders. “Can anypony take these challenges?” Stateran nodded, standing up as well.

“Indeed. Though I must warn you, the last one to successfully complete them all without fail was a demigod, the son of my nephew, Hitiya. He… Well, he ended up angering his uncle, my brother, by trapping his other children in the Frozen North, becoming their Captor as well as Warden. The trials had a very negative effect on him, to my dismay,” Stateran explained.

Starlight’s gaze stared at him for a long moment before she looked to the ground. Her hands fidgeted for a while before she balled them together in a double fist. She looked up with a confident expression. “What if I just wanted wisdom? Surely I could pass one trial.” Stateran nodded.

“Very well. Normally, I would ask my fourth child to teach you, however, he is…” he paused for a moment, frowning, before shaking his head. “...Not present. There is, however, his chosen Champion, Argvold, the Arcanist and one time loyal confidant to the Emperor of the Dwarves. He should be able to teach you more than well enough.”

“Thank you,” Starlight said, bowing her head as her eyes shone. “I won’t disappoint.”

“She’s serious about that,” Hikan said, walking over to stand behind her. “I swear her special talent is being unable to fail at anything she puts her mind to.” Stateran smiled.

“I can imagine,” the turtles suddenly started drawing closer to Hikan and Starlight, like they were sniffing them, before cooing and nuzzling them. “Seems they like you.”

Hikan tensed up as the turtles drew close, his hands twitching a bit as he beat back Dorkifu and his own instincts to activate his teigu and start swinging. Starlight, on the other hand, giggled a bit as they drew close, breaking a little smile as she brought up a hand to put it on the jawline of one of the turtles.

Neilaas cooed as she let Starlight touch her, while Yorrik licked Hikan, making his hair stand up from the saliva.

Hikan’s eyes went wide, pupils shrinking to pinpricks even as Starlight laughed, hand still rubbing on Neilaas. After a few moments, the young man started to chuckle and laugh as well, mechanical whirring signalling the activation of Dorkifu. “Heheheh, IIIII’M going to go INSANE!” Hikan stated as he raised his now clawed hands, amber accents glowing red as he brought them up to his head. As the saliva hissed at the touch of his heated hands, he slung the spittle off of him, flattening his hair down as he did so.

In response to this, Yorrik pinned the claw with his own claw, before tackling Hikkan and licking him all over, the heat from Hikan’s accents doing nothing to him. Stateran laughed.

“A bad mistake, my young friend. Yorrik actually likes being challenged, and you apparently smell like food to him!” Stateran said with a grin.

Hikan’s eyes went wide as he was pinned by the giant turtle, Dorkifu’s whirring noises revving up as amber grid lines started to crawl up his arms towards his chest. Starlight’s eyes widened next and she dove forward, grabbing Hikan before teleporting away with a flash. A fair distance away, a roar shook the air as a pure beam of amber energy cannoned its way through the sky with a boom. The light lasted several seconds before dying away. Stateran simply watched on before appearing behind them without a sound.

“I see you have a temper. Best control it,” Stateran informed.

Hikan slumped over Starlight, frantically holding her in his arms as he moved her smoking mane out of her face. “C’mon, c’mon, wake up,” he muttered, jaw trembling with the rest of him before he looked up and noticed Stateran. “...Help her, please… god, she was too close. Th-the heat, sh-she shouldn’t have been so close… please!”

Stateran simply looked to her, and immediately she awoke, as if all it took to heal her was his gaze.

She woke with a gasp, coughing as her practically incinerated lungs started functioning once more. “Wha… what happen-” She was stopped as Hikan hugged her tightly. “....Oookaaay…?”

“You tried to stop young Hikan here from killing my turtle. The result was you nearly being incinerated,” Stateran explained, face a mask of stone.

Starlight blinked at that. “...You know, a week or so ago, that would not have made any logical sense…. Now, it sounds like something that’s going to start happening on Tuesdays.”

“Quite. Now, I believe something is in order, yes?” Stateran said, looking at them expectantly.

Hikan looked up, blinking a bit before he let out a sigh. “I apologize for trying to waste your turtle.” Stateran nodded.

“Apology accepted. Albeit, he would have likely been fine, but the intent is still not welcome in any case,” Stateran said. He turned on his heel and started to walk away. “Come. I will show you to your temporary rooms, and then to your teachers as well as adversaries.”

The two watched after for a second before they untangled themselves, Starlight standing up first before they walked after Stateran. “So… how long might these trials take?” Hikan questioned. “Not that we’re really on a time table.”

“Except, you know, the changeling army marching towards Ponyville,” Starlight said, looking up at Hikan with an accusing look.

The man shrugged. “Oh, they’ll be fine. It’s Ponyville after all, changeling attacks probably go down every two weeks or something.”

Starlight just huffed. “That’s not the point,” she muttered as they followed.

“I am the God of Time. Thus, I can alter it’s flow. Which means you can stay here as long as you wish, and no time will have passed in your world,” Stateran explained. “That said, it would take a week at the least.”

“Oh,” Hikan said, giving an impressed nod. “Well, then I guess we could sit back a take all the time we need.”

Starlight just stared up at Hikan incredulously. “You really do enjoy contradicting me, don’t you?”

“Eeyup.” As they walked, they came to find a building covered in tapestries depicting various things, but three of them stood out more, hung above the doorway they were heading into. One was obviously of Stateran, but the other two were different. The one to the right showed a sun with a man holding it in his left hand, a sword in his right. He was dressed in heavy plate armor of pure white and gold. The left tapestry showed a man wearing a mask that appeared to be sneering, and he had a crown of thorns on his head. In his right hand was the moon, and the left a scythe of pure purple. His armor was light, but there were plates of black metal on the shoulders, knees, and elbows as well as gauntlets.

“So, who are those guys?” Hikan asked as they walked passed the tapestries. Stateran said nothing for a moment as they walked past the doorway and into a grand hall decorated with even more tapestries and even statues of various people.

“...My brothers,” he said simply as they continued down the marble halls.

“Right,” Hikan said, dropping the obviously touchy subject. “So, this trial of strength… what is it?”

“You shall see,” Stateran said simply. Eventually, they came upon a part of the hallway with doors. Hikan and Starlight noted that a number of them looked almost like those you would find from teenagers, what with the scrawlings and pictures and such on them. One had a number of hearts on it with romantic lines written on them, one had famous quotes from wise philosophers, and one had a number of shields, knives, and swords and axes as well as spears attached to it. And there was a good number more. Stateran said nothing as they walked through the hall.

Hikan was quiet for a while before he sped up his step to close the distance between himself and the god. “...Previous challengers and students?” He asked quietly. Stateran shook his head.

“No. My children,” he replied, obvious sorrow in his voice.

Hikan’s eyes rose to meet the back of Stateran’s head. “I’m sorry,” he said quietly, letting his gaze fall to the floor once more. “I… truly am.”

“...So am I,” the god replied somberly. They walked in silence for a good few minutes until they arrived at two different doors, set side by side. One of them had masks all over it, and the other had pictures of various unknown but beautiful locations. “These will be your rooms for now. I ask that you treat the items within with care. They were precious to the previous owners, and are thus precious to me as well.”

Hikan stared at the door for a moment before he nodded. “We will,” he said, Starlight stepping up next to him.

“We promise,” she finished, her tone matching their somber expressions. Stateran smiled lightly.

“Good. Head on inside, I will come to get you later once I find Argvold and a few others,” Stateran said before walking back down the hall, leaving the two alone.

They watched him go until he was out of sight. “...We have really stepped into some serious… what was it again?”

“Shit, Starlight. We have stepped into some serious shit,” Hikan finished before turning towards the door with the masks and entered it, not waiting for Starlight to enter her own. Inside was a number of pranking tools, covering a desk, a table, and nearly overflowing a dresser. A closet near the far left end of the room was left open somewhat, allowing Hikan to see a number of costumes. Some he recognized, some he didn’t. On the the right wall was a huge board with pictures of various things, lines drawn between them. And then there was the bed, the covers looking soft and decorated with smoky patterns, and plush, smoky purple pillows with stuffed animals of kitsune. The paint on the walls was gray, and the floor was covered by a carpet that was pure black.

Hikan blinked a few minutes before sighing. “I picked the girl’s room, didn’t I?” He questioned quietly, walking further in and closing the door behind him. He made his way to the center of the most spacious portion of the room and sat down. From there, he systematically took off his boots, socks, coat, shirt, undershirt, and his gear, leaving him only in his pants as he neatly folded his belongings in a pile. Once done, he pushed himself back a bit and sat in a cross legged position, closing his eyes and folding his hands. He took a deep, slow breath, the orange accents of Dorkifu’s carry form glowing brighter with the inhale before dimming as the young man exhaled. It wasn’t long before Hikan drew himself into the deepest meditative state he could.

A few hours had passed before a knock sounded from the door. Hikan gave a snort and jolted awake, rubbing his eyes as he wondered when he’d fallen asleep. He got up from the floor and walked to the door, opening it up. “‘Ello?” He questioned. What he saw was a veritable giant of a being, with stone colored skin and bulging muscles, standing at nine feet tall. Stateran was beside him.

“Hello, meat,” the female said, as was made obvious by her mammaries being held together by a tight fitting set of leather armor.

Hikan blinked at her in an unamused manner. “...Meat?” He questioned, his sleep-filled mind still working on processing what was going on.

“Yes, meat,” she said with a manic grin. Stateran gave her a look and she shrunk a bit.

“Sorry, my Lord,” she said sheepishly.

“Ahem, this is Hiral, the one time Queen of the Giants, as well as master of and creator of their special fighting style, the Zulin,” Stateran explained. “She will be your adversary and trainer.”

Hikan yawned a bit as his mind processed the information. “Cool,” he finally gasped out. “Let me grab me shirt.” With that, he turned and went back into the room, leaving the door open as he retrieved his clothing. He picked up the black, sleeveless undershirt and threw it over his shoulder before making his way out again. “Alright, so what’s on the menu?” Hiral grinned.

“Sit ups, push ups, and lots of punches to the face,” she explained.

Hikan looked at her for a second before blowing out some air and rolling his shoulders. “Sounds just like when Najenda started training me,” he said before steeling his gaze. “Let’s get started.”

“You asked for it!” Hiral said before picking him up and slinging him over her shoulder, running off down the hall. Stateran smiled and shook his head as he watched.

“Mortals never cease to amuse me,” he said before walking over to the other door and knocking on it. Receiving no answer, Stateran slowly opened the door to find Starlight out cold on the bed while a familiar incense filled the air. He sighed and walked over to her, nudging her awake.

“Hm…?” She hummed as her eyes drifted open, looking up at Stateran with half-lidded eyes. Just about everything in the room glowed slightly with a turquoise aura as she woke up before dimming again.

“Young mare, tis time for you to waken for your studies. Also, next time, please refrain from using my son’s incense. I have precious little of it left,” Stateran told her.

Starlight blinked awake at this, eyes going to the lit incense. “I-I’m sorry,” she stuttered out. “I must have done it in my sleep after putting up the preservation spell….”

“Just… Don’t do it again,” he said before turning and walking towards the door. “Now come, Argvold is quite excited to have a student again, and tis hard to keep him contained.”

Starlight nodded dimly before looking towards her bag and levitating it towards her. She sat up, the covers falling away to reveal her bra as she dug around to find her shirt. She quickly found it and the rest of her clothing before throwing them in the air. In a flash of light, she reappeared at the door, clothes on and bag over her shoulder as she flicked her mane out of her shirt collar. “Okay, I’m ready,” she announced, giving one of her small smiles.

“Good,” Stateran said as they walked out of the room and down the hall. Once they reached the end, they found a doorway leading to a massive library, larger than Canterlot’s by huge margin, and a lone, stout and bearded being wearing a fur coat and golden bracers and shin guards. The short being’s skin was pale, and his beard was a striking gold, braided into rows. He had no hair on his head, so he was quite bald. He noted the two approaching and grinned widely.

“Ah, so this is the young lass, eh?” he queried as he looked her up and down. “She’s quite the looker! Hope’s she’s as good at magic and studying as she is good lookin’.”

Starlight’s eyes widened a bit before her ears flicked back and her eyes narrowed. “He’s not going to try and grope me or something, is he?” She asked Stateran, crossing her arms over her chest as she moved her hooves into a defensive stance. Argvold shook his head, laughing.

“Ha, good one, lass! I may be an old pervert, but I have standards! Now come on, let’s get crackin’!” he said as he ushered her into the library.

Starlight raised an eyebrow for a moment at that, wondering whether to be relieved or offended at the fact that the old dwarf before her “had standards”. She shook her head and pushed her confusion to the side for the time being as she approached Argvold.

“Great! We can start with Magus Inhild’s First Law. I’ll show ya the trilogy he wrote for extra reference material!” Argvold said as the old dwarf wrapped an arm around her and pulled her further into the library.

“Do try to refrain yourself, old friend. I’d hate to have to reassemble your spirit once more,” Stateran told the old dwarf.

“Ach, ya worry too much, milord! I’ll be fine!” Argvold called back. Meanwhile, Starlight was trying to ignore the fact that the dwarf was only tall enough that his arm rested right above her waist.

Starlight stopped her ear from twitching as she forced a smile and gave a half-hearted laugh. “So, Magus Inhild’s First Law,” she said, trying to spur Argvold towards anything that wasn’t her.

They arrived at a large table, bookshelves towering several stories tall around them, but it was far from a tight fit. The dwarf let go of her to walk towards a bookcase.

“Indeed, lass! ‘Magic is no one being’s tool save for the Omniverse’s,’ really drab ol’ rackas, but he sure knew his magic!” Argvold answered, taking three books from the shelf and placing them on the table in front of her. They were certainly large books, looking to be an inch and a half thick for each tome. “And these are your reference material.” He turned again to look for another book. “Just give me a moment to find his first publication…”

Starlight let her eyes drift over the books, almost on autopilot as she stepped towards them. Once she was standing in front of them, she stared down at the cover of the first. It read, ‘Magic As An Empire: A Magus’ Outlook’. She started to put her hand forward, stopping just inches from the cover before drawing her hand back ever so slightly and biting her lip. After a second’s hesitation, she let her hand continue down until it touched the front cover of the tome, her fingers tracing along the writing. The sound Argvold placing another book on the table startled her.

“Yer a lot jumpier than the last apprentice, lass. Any particular reason aside from my charm?” Argvold queried with a grin.

“S-sorry,” Starlight apologized, choosing to just ignore the little quip like she did Hikan’s. “It’s just… I don’t think I’ve seen books like these before…. They just feel… powerful? No, that doesn’t fit….” Argvold quirked a brow before his eyes widened.

“Open the book to the first page, lass. I wanna see somethin’,” Argvold instructed.

The unicorn gave him a confused look before turning back to the book. With a bit of slowness to her actions, she followed the dwarf’s instructions and opened the book. Inside she found what could only be called a jumble of rune-like writing, but at the same time she still felt a powerful presence from them. Her eyes widened a bit as her finger started to follow the first line of text. “I… I don’t understand,” she said quietly before looking up at Argvold with a pleadingly hungry expression.

“Seems yer one o’ the Outers. Those who don’t know the script of Mana. But, bein’ a Unicorn, ya seem to have the aptitude to learn it. So, let’s set these aside for now, and I’ll grab another text,” Argvold said, turning to find said text.

Starlight looked sadly between the text under her finger and the teacher before she gave a little sigh and shut the book, promising herself to come back to it later. “So, you’re going to teach me to read this stuff?” She asked as she turned to look at Argvold. Argvold nodded as he scanned the shelves for the book he was looking for.

“Aye, lass, that I am. Can’t have ya bangin’ yer head ‘gainst a wall ‘cause ya don’t know how to read the script of Mana, after all,” Argvold promised her. “Aha!” he cried, pulling a light blue book from the shelf that was even thicker than the others, about two times thicker, in fact.

Starlight rubbed her horn unconsciously and winced at the one time she had actually banged her head against a wall in frustration. “Okay, so on a scale of one to impossible, how doable is this before the trial of wisdom?” Argvold shrugged.

“Depends on how fast ya pick it up, lass. Though if I were a bettin’ dwarf, which I am, I’d say ya could do it,” Argvold assured her. “Though I might need to call up ol’ Grimly in case…” He muttered to himself.

“Grimly?” Starlight questioned, her tone a mixture of confusion and hesitance. “Who’s Grimly?”

“Hmm? Oh, jus’ an ol’ drinkin’ pal from my earlier days,” Argvold told her, before handing her the book. “Why don’t ya start on this translator, and I’ll go get him?”

“Oookay,” Starlight answered as she took the book, wondering if “an ol’ drinkin’ pal” was such a good idea to help her learn magic. She sat at the table and went over the cover of the blue book, much like she had with the one before it.

After about twenty minutes of her reading the book and feeling extensively confused, Argvold arrived with a behemoth of metal so bulky that the armor he wore even had chiseled abs. The spaces between each joint sparked with electricity, and no part of his face could be seen save for his glowing yellow eyes.

Starlight looked up from her book with half of her face in her hand, a thoroughly bored look on her face before she gasped at the sight of the behemoth. Her magic flashed and she was suddenly on the far side of the table, holding the back of a chair as if it’d be the perfect barrier between herself and the metal giant. “What is that!?” She asked out of panic.

“This little birdy is your new apprentice?” the behemoth asked Argvold with it’s echoing voice. “I am thoroughly unimpressed.”

“Ah shut it, ya overgrown rcich,” Argvold shot back before turning to Starlight and clearing his throat. “This is Grimly, one time Grand Magus of Filia’s Enchantment Triangles, and now a golem.”

Starlight stared for several moments before gulping and standing straight once more, though still trembling ever so slightly. “H-hello,” she greeted shakily. “I’m Starlight. Starlight Glimmer.” Grimly simply grunted.

“Honestly, Argvold, I know talent has been hard to come by, but if she can’t even read Mana, what use is she?” Grimly rumbled.

“Take another look, ol’ friend, and you’ll see,” Argvold assured him. Grimly sighed and did so, turning his gaze back to the mare. For a moment, his eyes shifted to green, then blue, and then back to yellow.

“Hmm, alright, I rescind my earlier statement. She might not be useless and without talent,” Grimly conceded.

“Ya may want to introduce yerself fully, Grim,” Argvold pushed. Grimly sighed.

“Very well. I am Grimly Endearvius the Fifth, Grand Magus of Filia’s Enchantment Triangles, and now golem thanks to this little Earthborn here,” he pointed a metal thumb at Argvold.

Starlight looked between Grimly and Argvold for several moments, wondering what it was they were looking at. “...Was you becoming a… golem an accident or…?”

“Oh no, some rebellious, upstart prince from the south was angry at me for making an idle comment in one of my books about his country, and poisoned me. If it were not for Argvold here, my soul would be without a body and I would be in a completely different area of Erevale,” Grimly explained. “Little brat couldn’t tell the difference between a neutral political comment and an insult…” Argvold clapped his hands together.

“Right, well, we have more important things to speak of than yer past, Grim. Let’s teach this li’l lass how to read our script, eh?” Argvold interrupted.

Starlight’s eyes lit up a bit at that. “Yes, let’s,” she said excitedly as she flashed back to the right side of the table, a smile on her face. Argvold and Grimly walked over to her, and then her lessons began.

A number of knives nearly embedded themselves in Hikan’s skull as he was forced to meditate while Hiral threw more knives at him, trying her best to break his focus. He already had a few cuts on his cheeks from some, ‘mistakes’, as Hrial called them, but Hikan was pretty sure they weren’t.

Hikan’s mind flickered with the ‘woosh’ of each blade, but his focus stayed firm. Years of keeping Dorkifu in check on Hikan’s part helped the conscious Jeremy mind to keep it that way. Nor to mention that wielding the Teigu all but required him to be in what amounted to a conclusion state of meditation on the battlefield.

Hiral grinned before she cracked her knuckles and approached him slowly. When Hikan was starting to wonder why he didn’t hear the ‘woosh’ anymore, he felt a large fist connect with his stomach, knocking the wind out of him.

Hikan’s eyes flew open as he tried to roll his body to better absorb the hit, but it was too late for the most part. As the daze went through his mind, he grabbed her arm, keeping himself upright as he collected his breath. “...What… was that…… for…?” He questioned, raising his eyes to meet hers. She retracted her fist, only to knee him instead, and then kick him to the ground.

“I told you to stay focused no matter what, remember? That includes when you’re getting hit,” Hiral replied with a wicked grin.

Hikan stayed on the ground for several moments before he stood back to his feet and rolled his shoulders, barely contained anger dancing in his eyes. “Thanks for the tip…,” he muttered, prying his mouth open to avoid gritting his teeth.

“Staying calm was also one of the first lessons,” she said as she spun around and roundhouse kicked him to the dirt once more.

Hikan’s hand touched the ground as his nimble body twisted around until he slid on his feet, coming to a combat ready crouch position, facing her. “Are you going to hit me every time you try to teach me something?”

“Only until you learn to be more calm and collected in combat,” she replied as she bumrushed him, but when he thought she was going to tackle him, she instead leaped over him, grabbed him in a full Nelson, and then flipped him over, slamming his head into the hard, packed sand below. “Come on, get up! I’m not even trying here!”

Hikan’s eyes flared open, the left going bright orange as a flood of killing intent raged across the area… before disappearing just as fast. “That’s one of the first things we learn as assassins,” he said lowly as he straightened up, an empty look in his eyes now. “To suppress our intent and stay calm so as to not be detected….” He was gone.

Except, when he reappeared next to her, she simply slammed her fist into his face, knocking him down once more before she grabbed his arm, lifted him up, and slammed him into the ground again, and again, and again, until his mouth was filled with sand and his nose and lip were bleeding.

Hikan hung limply in her hold, not struggling at all, eyes closed in unconsciousness. She grunted and lifted him up again, pulling him to his feet and trying to shake him awake.

“Come on, it wasn’t that bad!” she said as she continued shaking him. When she got no response, she sighed deeply. “Well, guess that’s it for today,” she said as she slung him over her shoulder and started walking out of the Colosseum and towards the doorway leading to the hall where his room was.

Halfway there, he slowly woke up, although he was rather surprised as well as embarrassed that he being carried like a child, and even more so when he found that her rear was right in front of his eyes and quite close as well.

Of course, Hikan never truly was unconscious, but at that moment, he knew… he’d overplayed it. “...God damn it,” he muttered as let his head go limp again, closing his eyes in self-aggravation. “Can’t even pull a proper Lubbock and get away with it….”

“Exactly,” Hiral replied, having heard him. “I’ve fought plenty of assassins, kid. I know a fake knock-out when I see one.” She smiled, jostling him a bit in her grasp. “Enjoy the view, kid?” She asked cheekily.

“Seen better,” Hikan answered just as cheekily with a hint of truth in his voice. “And I do mean in terms of both strength and body.” Hiral laughed.

“You’re quite a tfen, for a kid,” she noted. “Saying you’ve seen better is more of a challenge than an insult to me, though.”

Hikan just chuckled. “Yeahp, that’s how Esdeath took it, too,” he murmured. “By the way, I can’t feel appropriately insulted if I don’t know what tfen means.”

“Oh, you misunderstand, that’s a compliment in my culture. It means, ‘sex-fiend’,” Hiral explained. “Or something akin to it. Your language doesn’t have the full meaning of the word grasped yet.”

“Oh…,” Hikan muttered in response before he opened his eyes with a confused look. “What makes you think I’m a sex fiend? I’ve literally only ever slept with- okay, shutting up now….” Hiral laughed.

“Like I said, there’s a deeper meaning to it in my people’s language, and your people do not have a word close enough to it aside from sex-fiend,” she informed as she walked. “Though now that you’ve said that, you’ve only gotten me more willing to meet the challenge.”

Hikan grumbled to himself, putting his chin in his hand once more. “Me and my loud mouth….” Hiral laughed once more, teasingly patting his buttocks.

“Cheer up, kiddo. Least you can say you saw a Giantess’ ass, right?” she said as they arrived back at his temporary room.

“Yeah, right before and after having my own ass beaten,” he remarked as he commanded Dorkifu’s armor to his chest to begin sending out healing pulses to relieve the bruising he could already feel. She lowered him to the ground, letting him stand up.

“That’s the fun part, kiddo~,” she said with a wink before walking off. “I’ll be back in a few hours, in the meantime, practice your meditation or jack it, I don’t honestly care.”

Hikan blinked after her before he sighed and shook his head before entering the room. He once again went to the center of the room and sat down, stripping off his shirt and folding it into the pile. He crossed his legs and closed his eyes, dropping into meditation, albeit wincing each time the healing pulses went over one of more sore spots.

About thirty minutes later, he heard a knock on the door. Hikan’s eye peeked open at the knock and he slowly got to his feet. Dorkifu’s armor shifted onto his arm to form the Wyvern wing configuration as he moved across the room. When he reached the door, he let his left hand reach towards the door knob while his armored claw tensed. He turned the knob slowly before lurching the door open and bringing his wing up as a shield. He waited for several moments with baited breath but no attack came. Ever so slowly, he lowered the flared sail down to reveal an exhausted Starlight, her clean ponytail hanging down in a mess to signify that she’d run her hands through her mane many a time that day.

The mare blinked at him with a dead expression before looking him up and down. “...What in Tartarus happened to you?” She asked in a tired voice.

The hunter let out a sigh and returned his teigu to carry form. “A Giantess, who I’m pretty sure is a sadist, got a hold of me,” he answered, receiving a sympathetic nod from the mare.

“...Mind if I come in?” She asked quietly, as she rubbed at her arm and looked away down the hall.

“Sure,” Hikan answered with a shrug as he moved out of the way to let her in. He then went back to the floor and his meditating, not really caring much for what Starlight did after walking in. Then he felt a pressure in his side. Starlight lay beside him, resting her head in his side as she closed her eyes. No more words passed between them as the assassin closed his eyes again, knowing full well she needed the rest…..

Chapter 5

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 6 Author's Note

And it's in this chapter that things get... yeah, this is the chapter that made me start thinking about the 'porn' tag... Yeeeaaah, from here on out, read with extreme caution. In other words...

VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED!!!

Chapter 6

As Stateran and his wife disappeared, leaving Arela and Hikan alone in the garden, Arela blushed more as she saw her Devoted’s loving smile.

“D-D-Don’t give me those eyes… Y-Y-You’ll drive me crazy and burn my heart out…” she said, looking away in embarrassment.

Hikan chuckled and blinked his eyes. “We can’t have that, now can we?” He said, a bit of a laugh in his voice. She blushed and buried her head in his chest, lightly punching his chest.

“You’re mean…” she said.

Hikan gave an actual laugh at that and kissed her forehead. “C’mon,” he said gently. “We should head somewhere a bit more comfortable… and I should probably get the sweat and blood cleaned off.” He added the last part with a nervous chuckle. She nodded, blushing more as she thought of an offer.

“U-Um… The Great Being gave me a suite just a few halls away from the Hall of Gods… I h-h-h-have a personal b-b-b-bath in there, if you want to use it…” she offered.

“I think that would be just fine,” he said with a smile. His wings moved completely away from her and towards his back where they folded up tightly, Hikan turning his head and closing his eyes as they did. “That’s… still going to take some getting used to….”

“Come on, I’ll take you there,” she said, taking his hand and pulling him along. Hikan started a bit before getting his feet under him and following along. As he did, he found himself staring at her, memories from the true Hikan buzzing through his mind. His expression turned a bit to open confusion before melting into a soft smile that the assassin could have never have worn before.

She is so much different than the others, he thought. ...But that’s why I love her. The admittance of love in his own mind seemed to seal something inside of him as he felt a weight in his chest and felt his cheeks burn for the first time that evening. They walked for about thirty minutes until coming upon a very classy and gold decorated wooden door.

“Th-This is it…” She said, turning to him, still blushing.

Hikan studied the door, a grin forming on his face. “Y’know, if it's as elaborate as the door,” he began before giving her a mischievous look. “It’ll still only be half as beautiful as you.” She blushed more, stammering.

“I-I-I-I...:” she gulped. “Just… follow me inside…” she said as she opened the door.

Hikan gave another chuckle as the door opened up before them. He followed the angel inside and took in his surroundings with a trained eye.The walls were a marble white, all decorated in gold. The floor was covered in a white carpet, and just off the side of the door was a kitchen. In front of it was her bed, large, round, and covered in stuffed toys of ninjas with gold covers. Four doors lays off to the left side of the large room, one much farther, on the clear other side of the room. All the doors were just as classy and elaborate as the last.

Hikan gave an impressed nod of his as he looked around the room. “This is really, really nice,” he said. “But I do have one question….” He fell silent and started walking towards the bed. Once at the side, he turned and gestured towards the stuffed toys, giving a mischievous look and wide grin that asked the silent question.

“W-W-W-Well, I uh… My lord g-g-gave them, to me, out of kindness… E-Except for the one at the top… That um…” she blushed heavily. “I b-b-b-bought it when I was still alive at the Isle of Tears…”

“Isle of Tears?” He asked, dropping his grin and walking towards her again.

“Oh, uh, it’s an ancient Isle, home to the Glittering City and Snowfall Mountain, known for its ties to the God of Dreams and Wishes, as well as it’s special warriors, called Dream Knights,” Arela explained. “That toy is a representation of one, hence the complete cover of his head and blue cloak.”

Hikan took all this in, throwing one last look at the stuffed toy. “...It must be a very special memory for you…,” he said quietly before looking back to her and lifting a hand to rub her arm.

“Yes, it was. A Knight himself gave it to me before an important mission,” Arela admitted with a smile.

Hikan smiled at her softly before putting his arm around her shoulders and pulling her gently towards him, planting a kiss on her forehead. “He must have seen the same thing me and Stateran see…,” he said, still smiling as he drew back. She hummed and nuzzled him.

“He was really nice, too. Most Dream Knight’s are sworn to silence and a life of being alone, but he actually broke the rule and approached me and bought it for me…” she smiled happily.

Hikan smiled as well, rubbing her back for a moment. “Truly something special…,” he said. Though it wasn’t clear what he was actually talking about….

“Okay, go get in the bath. It’s the farthest door. You can use my soap. Oh, and I’ll ask my lord if we can get something to put on your wings for a better shine,” she said with a smile.

Hikan gave one last smile and kissed her forehead again. “Thanks, Arie,” he said before heading for the door she had indicated. Once alone, he took a look around to see what he was working with. The bathtub might as well have been an indoor pool with its size, and the walls were made of gold tile along with the floor, although it was white tile. He noted a shelf by the door with a number of soaps and bottles that looked quite old school, as well as a large mirror.

He nodded his head, once more very impressed before he started to run the water for the bath. With that going, he stripped but a glimpse of the mirror out of the corner of his eye made him pause. He turned his back and peered over his shoulder at the scaly appendages now sprouting from his back. He twitched a few of the muscles, spreading and folding the wings experimentally, going so far as to reach under one arm and finger the edge of the black scales where they transferred into his flesh. After a moment, he sighed and looked away, going to the bath and getting in.

He sank into the warm water, letting his muscles relax right until they touched the new muscles of his wings. He gave a gasp and stood back up a little before he started sinking back in. Eventually, he was submerged in the water and just sat there, adjusting to the new sensation as he leaned his head back and started to wonder why this was happening to him…. Eventually, he let out a huff of scornful laughter. “...We really fucked up didn’t we?” He questioned the ceiling quietly. He turned his head when he saw Arela walking in in nothing but a small towel, hiding her modesty and cute breasts. She was blushing more than he’d seen her blush, and slowly walking towards him in the bath.

The thought to be self-conscious flashed only very briefly through his mind before he turned his head back, letting it rest on the edge of the tub. “No need to be embarrassed,” he said softly, his mood following his muscular system. “Besides, your bath, your comfort zone….” She nodded stiffly as she slowly shed the towel, him hearing her climb in next to him, covering her breasts and still blushing. He noted she had a number of scars, mostly puncture wounds, all over her body.

His eyes narrowed dangerously at the sight of the scars, the wing furthest from Arela twitching. After a moment, he forced himself to look away and take a long, deep breath. He’d seen plenty of scars in his life, had plenty himself, but he could not take the sight of them on someone he loved.

“I… I wanted to bathe with you… I-I-I-I-it’s an Angel custom…” Arela admitted, having not noticed him looking.

Hikan took a moment and looked back at her. Slowly, his face softened and he gave a smile. “...Would you have done it anyway?” He asked. She nodded slowly, sinking her head into the water and blowing bubbles cutely. She was still blushing and covering her chest.

The assassin chuckled softly before looking away with a soft sigh, closing his eyes and facing the ceiling again. “...You have a cute blush, y’know,” he stated with a mischievous smile. She eeped, sinking further into the water.

Hikan gave a little laugh when he heard the water ripple. “Okay, c’mon, you’ll hurt yourself,” he said quietly before leaning forward and opening his eyes. His wings shuddered as the stimulation sent arcs of new information into his mind, the water flinging up little water droplets as they did. He started to cup water into his hands and splash it over his back and side, starting the process of clearing the dried blood from his skin. “Nph… how do you deal with this?” He questioned, eyes and face scrunched up in some strange combination of pain and concentration.

“Oh! I can help with that, here, love,” she said, jumping to help him, taking his wings gently in her soft and small hands as she softly and expertly washed them for him. The man’s body gave a shudder as she made contact, the sails vibrating in her hands as the new muscles and nerves reacted to the sensation. Hikan gasped softly, though not in pain. She giggled at this, continuing until as she was standing over him, washing his wings. She glanced down at his body and blushed brightly when she caught a glimpse of his lower half, quickly resuming looking at his wings and washing them more thoroughly.

Hikan was absolute putty at this point, the cleaning of his wings overloading his mind until he was just hunched in the water, nose just barely keeping off the top off the water. She blushed as she saw his member, hard and proud, and then stopped, jumping into the water at the center of the pool in embarrassment.

Hikan suddenly straightened up as water met his face, sputtering as he blinked rapidly. “Wh-what was that?” He questioned before looking around wildly for the angel. “Arela? Arela!?” He stood from his spot, mind going from zero to a thousand in no time. She surfaced in the water, just far away from him, pointing at his crotch with a massive blush.

“Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Y-Your m-m-m-m-m-member… I-I-I-I-I-!” she blushed more and covered her face.

Hikan gave her a confused look before he glanced down at his manhood. “...Okay…,” he muttered before looking at her for a moment longer. He suddenly moved out of the tub and grabbed his underwear and slipped them back on to appear more decent for her sake before coming back to the tub. “Better?” she peekd out.

“Y-Y-Yes… Sorry, I… I’m…” she looked away. “I’m a virgin…” she said quietly.

Hikan gave a little breath. “I kinda figured,” he said as he let the breath out. He hesitated a moment before going over to her and putting a gentle hand on the side of her arm. “C’mon… you got my back, I’ll get yours… that way we can sorta… get used to each other. How does that sound…?” She nodded slowly, turning and allowing him to see a massive scar reaching from her lower bits to her neck.

Hikan couldn’t help it this time around. His face turned up in a snarl, a feral hiss escaping his lips and eyes flashing into orange slits for a very slight moment. He jerked his head away and got himself under control before looking back and starting to clean her back with gentle, tender hands. His callused hands hesitated over the scar before continuing on, being even more soft with the off colored flesh. He opened his mouth and another reptilian hiss echoed from him, though with a different tone to it than before. He slammed his jaws shut and turned his head, clearing his throat then turning his eyes back to her. “Who… what did-.... What happened?” He asked, voice choked. She was silent for a long while.

“It’s… It’s from my death, love. The Great Being couldn’t fix the scars. The… the large one is… Is from when a Titan gave me a…” she choked back a sob. “A go…”

“Stop.” The word was soft. Gentle. Arms wrapped around Arela as Hikan hugged his Devoted, his wife according to his terms, wings wrapping around her through sheer instinct. “Don’t continue if you don’t want to…. You don’t have to relive that pain…. Not for me… not for anyone… and certainly not ever… as long as you don’t want to….” She sobbed more.

“I… It hurt so much… H-H-H-He was so big I… I tore in half, just like that…!” she sobbed openly. Hikan held onto her, holding her close as she sobbed. He didn’t make a peep as he let her get out everything she had been holding in. Eventually, she calmed down enough to speak coherently, and whipped around to face him, hugging him back tightly. He never thought to let go as he held her closely, his hand rubbing her back.

“...I’m not letting go…,” he said in a voice so quiet it was almost impossible to hear. “Not ever….” She blushed a bit at that, as well as when she felt his member on her, still hard.

“U-U-Um… I-I-Is it… painful…?” she asked nervously.

“...The first time can be…,” he answered truthfully.

She gulped. “I meant… your p-p-p-penis… It’s… twitching, a lot…”

It was Hikan’s turn to blush, face starting to burn red. “S-sorry,” he muttered, moving back ever so slightly. “I- u-um….” She shook her head, keeping him close.

“N-No, it’s… It’s okay… But… I-I-I don’t think I’m ready for the real thing, so…” she blushed more. “W-W-Would… O-O-Oral be okay?”

“We don’t have to do anything that you don’t want to, Arela,” he answered, bringing his head back to look her in the eyes. “Only if you are two hundred percent sure….” “HIKAN!?” Starlight shouted, the bathroom door suddenly flying open as the mare opened it, only to have to stop very short as a very familiar orange glow filled her vision.

“Starlight!?” Hikan questioned as he faced her with wings spread to hide Arela protectively while his arms were raised and armored up, the canon mode activated and charging as the weaponry pointed at the mare. “What the actual HELL!?”

“I-I-I-I-” she stuttered as she looked between the canons, his mostly naked body, and the almost nonexistent visuals of the angel behind him. “Sta-Stateran said I’d find you here….”

“Love, why is this mare blushing around you? I feel an urge to report her to my lord for peeking on your lovely body that is and should only be seen by me,” Arela said coldly.

“Don’t worry,” Hikan answered, as he relaxed, putting his arms down as the canons and claws retreated into the bracelets. “It’s just Starlight.”

Starlight’s eyes narrowed. “Just Starlight?” She questioned dangerously, raising her fist as it and her horn began to glow. “How about I ‘just Starlight’ you upside the head again?” Arela was suddenly in front of her, a flurry of golden feathers around her as she glared at Starlight.

“Threaten him again… Go on…” she dared.

Starlight raised her brow at this, her confusion far too clear on her face at the angel’s aggression. She looked between Hikan and Arela several times before it finally clicked that they were in a bathroom… and the two were both either naked or mostly naked…. “...What did I miss?” She questioned as her horn and hand stopped glowing.

“Quite a bit, actually,” Hikan answered as he stepped out of the tub and activated Dorkifu’s chest piece, a low hum echoing out as steam started to leave his body.

“I thought she was going to train you,” Starlight said incredulously, still looking between the two even as the man went to start putting the rest of his clothes back on. “Not… whatever this is!” Arela wrapped a towel around herself before stepping up into Starlight’s face.

“This is our love, wench. Please vacate the premises before I make you,” Arela growled, having felt insulted by Starlight’s comment.

Starlight looked back at Arela, giving an irritated look before her horn lit up again. The angel was suddenly sliding back on the slick tile. “First off, personal space. Second-”

“Starlight,” Hikan interrupted, looking up at her with his shirt in his hand. “It is her room and it is our business. I promise to fill you in later, but for now… a little privacy?”

Starlight stared at the man with a shocked expression for a moment, her gaping mouth opening and closing as she tried to find the right words. After a moment, she just stopped and let out a sigh. “Sorry, Hikan,” she said quietly. “I’ll… I’ll leave you to it, then.” With that she turned and started to leave the bathroom. But Arela had felt like her love was challenged by the magical shove, and Hikan could see her pure rage as blinding sunlight started to pour through a window and down onto her.

Hikan was almost instantly between them, wings wide as he put his hands gently on Arela’s shoulders. “Hey, hey, hey,” he said in a calm tone. “No need for that….”

“That… that whore threatened you and insulted our love, then challenged me to a duel!” Arela cried.

“EX-BUCKING-CUSE ME!?!?!” Starlight’s rage-filled cry filled the air as Hikan wisely chose that now was a very good time to move his ass. Starlight stood in the doorway, fists clenched and glowing alongside her horn and eyes as she gritted her teeth. “The BUCK did you just call me!?”

“A damn whore!” Arela replied, sunlight building again.

“You don’t know the first thing about me!” Starlight shouted in response, starting to step forward as her normally turquoise aura started to brighten to white. “What in Tartarus gives you the right to call me a whore!? I heard my friend was hurt and that makes me a whore!?!?” Arela growled ferally as the sunlight blinded them all but her, a quick but melodic war cry sounding out as the sunlight faded, revealing her in a titanic suit of armor made of pure gold, the suit so large it gave her an extra two feet in height and made her look much more intimidating. Arela held out her hand and a blindingly gold halberd with silver and lapis engravings on the blade appeared in her hand. Starlight could feel the raw, holy power absolutely pouring from Arela.

“I will not. Ask again. Leave. Else I shall personally send you to Triyte’s Wastes,” Arela threatened, voice echoing in the armor.

“I-” Starlight reached her left hand into a portal that suddenly appeared and pulled it out as a dark blue, two-piece shield with black accents formed on her shoulder and upper arm, forearm adorned with a matching greave. “Won’t be insulted for-” Her right hand reached into a portal and pulled out a matching greave and bastard longsword that looked like it should be too big for her. “Caring about my friend!” A portal raced from over her head and down to her feet, leaving behind the matching chest piece, shin guards, and thick black and white leather armor that filled the gaps.

“Enough!” Hikan’s shout shook the room for the second time. Arela had already raised her halberd and raised it right in Starlight’s face, but stopped short of impaling her head at Hikan’s shout. She growled, trembling with anger, before slowly, very slowly, backing off.

“......Yes, love,” she said bitterly, armor disappearing along with the halberd.

Starlight stared at Hikan, nostrils flaring for several moments before the portals reappeared and washed over her, relieving her of the armor she and the man had found. Hikan stared back at her before lifting a hand and finger towards the mare. “Go,” he all but ordered. “I will explain this later, and we will discuss what just happened.”

The unicorn took several more breaths before she nodded her head. “Fine,” she replied before turning and leaving the bathroom. Seconds later, another door slam signalled that she had fully left Arela’s home.

The man sighed at that. “...I’m sorry, Arela,” he said softly, looking towards her. Arela simply hugged him tightly, still obviously angry. Hikan hugged her back, rubbing her back. He stayed quiet for several moments before he spoke. “...Why did you call her a whore, Arela...?”

“She was staring at your body!” she said, hugging him possessively. “Only I can do that…” she muttered.

“Y’know, she woke me up a few days ago,” Hikan said. “And I sleep in what I was in when she walked in. ...Please try to understand that me and Starlight have been through a lot over the last few weeks. When we hear that the other is hurt… we don’t usually know how to react until we can make sure we’re okay….” Arela stayed quiet for while before sighing deeply.

“Okay… I’m sorry… I’ll try to be more kind around your friend…” she said slowly.

“That’s all I ask,” Hikan replied, giving her a little kiss. “Thank you for trying to understand.” She nodded, no longer caring that her small breasts were on his bare chest. The hunter held onto her for a few moments longer before he leaned back slightly. “You okay…?” she looked up at him, tilting her head cutely.

“Yes, why do you ask, my love?” she asked.

“You just… I didn’t think I’d see you that angry,” he answered.

“You’re my Devoted, why wouldn’t I be…” she blinked. “Oh, right, you don’t understand Angel customs,” she cleared her throat. “Angels who see other females staring at their Devoted longingly or when they are nude, are known to take that as a threat to their Devotion’s entire status. When harmed by the threat, they take it as a challenge to their love and Devotion’s future, and thus follow through on most occasions by eliminating the threat.”

“Oookay…,” he said with a nod, his mind taking in the information. “Just… know that Starlight isn’t a threat. She’s a friend. A friend who’s been through a hell of a lot considering the world she came from. And nothing, and I do mean nothing, is going to keep me from you.”

“I understand, but if she does that again, I can’t promise I’ll be able to control myself…” Arela admitted.

“Okay,” Hikan answered, rubbing her arms and giving her forehead a kiss. “...Y’know what? I think what we need is a little R’n’R after all of that.”

“My lord has a…” she blinked, trying to remember the word. “...device, of sorts, that allows one to see moving pictures,” she offered. “I don’t understand it, but he said anyone could use it if they wanted to.”

Hikan gave a smile. “You’re talking about a television,” he said. “And that definitely would help to ease our nerves.”

“I really liked a certain picture he called… Um…” she blinked, trying to sound out the word. “My Neighbor Totoro…?”

Hikan blinked his eyes for a moment. “You guys have that movie here?” He questioned before he gave a smile. “Well, I’m glad I’ll finally get the chance to see it, but first… maybe you want to put some clothes on?” She blinked, looking down at herself and blushing.

“I...I’m going to do that, y-y-y-yes,” she said as she rushed out of bathroom in a hurry. He idly noted he felt warmer than usual.

Hikan let himself wonder about this for a long moment before he just chuckled and shook his head. He slipped his shirt on and left the bathroom into the main room. He blushed as he saw her struggling pull on a set of lacy gold panties. Apparently her butt was too big for them now.

Hikan looked away to give her some form of privacy. “You okay, Arie?” He asked, scratching his chin for a moment. She blushed, turning around slowly.

“U-U-U-U-Um… could you… help me…?” she asked, tapping her fingers together adorably. He tried not to look at her shaved mound.

“Uhhh, sure,” he muttered making his way over to her before hesitating. “Um… what.. Do you want me to do...?”

“J-J-J-Just help me pull it up…” she said, blushing more.

“Right,” Hikan said softly before he started to reach down and help her pull her underwear up like it should be. It stretched, and when he was down in snapped on, making her squeak adorably.

“There,” he said, pulling back and straightening up. “Better?” She nodded, and walked over to a dresser to pull out a cute blouse with pink straps on the arms.

He followed her with his eyes, a question starting to burn in his mind. “....Why didn’t they fit?” He asked aloud, not even realizing he had until too late. She blushed even brighter, turning around and running over to him, slamming him on the head with the butt of her newly summoned halberd.

“Idiot idiot idiot idiot! Don’t call my butt big!” she yelled over and over, blushing adorably as she hit him with each utterance of ‘idiot’.

“Ow-ow-ow-ow!” Hikan cried, reaching a hand up and stopping the halberd with his palm before it could hit him again. “Why does everyone always go for my head? Besides, it’s cute!” She blushed more, slamming it into his gut instead. “OOF!” His breath rushed out of him and he slumped to the ground, his wings going limp on the ground. “...At least… it wasn’t….. My head….” She returned to getting dressed with a huff.

The assassin took a few moments to collect his breath before he pushed himself up off the ground. “...Was that really necessary?” He asked, tensing and waiting for another striking.

Thankfully she was dressed now, a pink skirt and the blouse she picked on her chest. Her large golden wings stuck out as if stretching.

“You called my butt big,” she said firmly before walking to the door.

Hikan thought very a short moment about defending his position before just letting it slide and followed after her. “So, which way we going?”

“To my lord’s room,” she said.

“Uhhh…,” the man started lifting a finger nervously. “Isn’t that a bit… um, risky with Mez here…?” She paled.

“DETOUR!” she said loudly, taking his hand and running off down a completely different hall.

Hikan gave a surprised look as he was suddenly turned around. “Where are we going?” He asked as he got his feet back under him.

“To my favorite place in Erevale! The Light Bringer’s Memorial!” Arela cried as she pulled him along.

The hunter gave the angel a confused look before he just shook his head, smiling as he let himself be pulled along. They arrived in a large garden with sunlight pouring down on a golden tombstone, flowers and many other plants around it. Hikan stared at the memorial for a second, a look of awe on his face. “...Arela… what is this place…?”

“The Light Bringer’s Memorial, a tribute to the Great Being’s sibling and the father of the Angels,” Arela explained.

“It’s beautiful…,” he murmured still stuck in place as his gaze tried to hungrily take in the sights around him. Arela giggled.

“Yeah, it is,” she agreed.

After a few seconds, the man stopped his staring and looked towards Arela. “Why here?” He questioned softly.

“It’s a haven for Angels, so I thought you’d like it. It’s my favorite place in Erevale, too. Lots of sunshine,” Arela explained as she sat down by the tombstone.

“Well, it certainly is beautiful,” he replied as he sat next to her. He stared at the tombstone… until one of the original Hikan’s memories pushed itself to the surface of his mind. Without warning, tears welled up in his eyes as his chest tightened. Arela noticed this.

“My love? What’s wrong?” she asked worriedly, rolling over to him and hugging him.

“Just-” Hikan choked, stopping and looking away as he closed his eyes, pushing tears down his face while he tried to force the others down. He cleared his throat and took a heavy breath before he looked back at her with a sad look. “Hikan’s memories.” He looked back down at the stone. “...The last time he looked down at a gravemarker like this.... It was of a woman he planned to marry….” He clutched the knees of his pants as he felt a fresh wave of sorrow wash over him. “...They… didn’t even have a body to bury….” Arela frowned at this and wrapped her wings around him tightly.

He lifted his hand and put it to her arm, squeezing it a bit as he continued to let his tears fall. “That was his curse…,” he mumbled. “The curse I gave him… now….” He clenched his eyes shut and his hand held onto her more tightly. “I’m afraid it’ll be mine, too….” She held him tighter.

“My love…” she said softly.

His hand slips away and he wraps his arms around her, wings falling down and hanging limply on the floor behind him. “...I don’t know what I’d do if I lost you….” he whispered in a constricted voice. “I don’t know how he made it… I just… I’m… I’m so scared.” He closed his eyes and held her close, finally letting the sorrow shake his body. She reached up and kissed him.

“...We can go to Triyte’s Memorial… It… Has the ability to clear curses,” she told him uneasily.

Hikan shook his head and took a deep breath as he pulled back and looked at, wiping away his tears. “It’s not an actual curse…,” he said quietly. “It was the tragedy I chose to write for him…. My philosophy as a writer was that every character should have a tragic curse. Hikan’s… Hikan’s was that he would have his love taken away by a monster until he... could accept and come to terms with the monster he was….” She frowned more, nuzzling him, allowing him to smell the calming scent of some kind of salt in her hair. Like sea salt, but sweeter.

The hunter stayed quiet for a long while as he just took the time to take in the moment. The smell of her hair, the warmth, everything. He drank it in like a man desperately drowning and reaching for a rope. She hugged him tighter as he calmed down more, the scent really helping. He let out a sigh as he finally let the tears fade away. “Thank you, Arela…,” he said softly. “...I, um….ahem… you’re, uh… you’re hair smells nice….” His face blushes as he realizes he has no idea why he just admitted that. Arela blinked at this before giggling madly.

Hikan blinked confusedly, his blush growing and brightening. “Wh-what?” He questioned. “Wh-what did I say?” She giggled more before nuzzling his chest.

“I love you,” she said softly.

Hikan was still for a moment before he let out a calming breath and gave a smile. “Love you, too…,” he breathed as he hugged her gently. She giggled.

“The scent is Sky’s Tears,” she told him finally.

“It’s nice…,” he said softly. He let out another sigh and held onto her, looking up and back towards the tomb, letting his gaze become unfocused once more.

They stayed there for a good long while, before falling asleep under the tombstone and sunlight.

Eventually, Mez and Stateran walked into the Memorial where Hikan and Arela were, and when they reached it, Mez noted that Stateran looked sad as they approached the sleeping couple beneath the golden tombstone.

“Why are you sad?” she asked.

“My… Brother’s left after the Cataclysm. They couldn’t handle the pain of losing their children as well,” he said sadly. “They… blamed me for the pain of all of the mortals and their children. We didn’t part on good terms.”

“I… see,” She said. They walked closer to the golden tombstone and Mez made a blanket appear on them. She then sat down and patted the spot next to her. He stayed where he was, though. He slowly approached the tombstone and placed a hand on the plaque, before his eyes glowed, and it gained a better sheen.

“Always stay golden, my brother…” he whispered softly and sadly before slowly sitting down next to Mez. She wrapped her arms around him and made a blanket appear around them. Mez looked up as she held her husband.

“I always loved the outdoors,” she said, looking up at the sky. “Reminds me of Esti’s realm.”

“Hmm…” he said noncommittally, looking up at the ever shining sun his brother so loved.

“You know, you never asked about the orders to which I belong to,” she said. He turned to her.

“I didn’t realise you belonged to any,” he said, before he growled. “You weren’t forced to do sexual favors for them, were you?” She laughed.

“Oh lord no, I do many dirty things but that,” she stuck her tongue out. “Just, ew, their kinda like family… well no that’s not it… it’s hard to explain it without explaining the orders.” He sighed in relief.

“Thank God…” he breathed, squeezing her possessively.

“So… you want to hear or simply sit here?” she asked. He shrugged.

“Only if you want me to,” he said simply.

“Well, I do and you might need to know since you’re kinda part of one of them,” she said, booping his nose. He blinked.

“Wait, I have an order? I mean, all I know I have that is close to that is my Time Lords and Time Motes and Time Protectors, but I made them myself,” he said, confused. She giggled.

“Kinda, let me explain,” she put up her hand and the runes on her began to glow. Soon a yellow orb appear in thin air. “This, is you, and these,” five more orbs appeared around that one while six more appeared away. “Are the others in the first order, they contain you, The God of Time or, and I think The Father will call you, The Father of Time, Jorund, the god of Music, Livo: God of Medicine and Remedies, Deim: God of Storms, Nuther, the Allhammer, and Inldir, the One who Dreams.”

She then pointed to the other six, “Those are the six goddess of the order, there’s Esta the Mistress of the Wild Hunt, Drusillia the Goddess of the Sea and patron Goddess of sailors, Yrelia the Goddess of the Harvest and Nature, my mother, Mairead the Goddess of Valor and Honor, the angel chick will love her, and Aotl, the Angel of Fate.” Stateran hummed in thought.

“I see…” He closed his eyes in contemplation. “Why do you not have an order, my love?”

“I am, you see in the order you can’t really have a relationship with one another, so if I was part of it me and my mother can’t… you know, but I’m not part of that order,” she pointed up and six new orbs appear. “I belong to a different one, The Inbetween, there’s me, Esti the Goddess of the Sun and Healing, Utos the God of the Moon and Rivers, Nit The God of Games and Tricks, and Rar'ghon The God of Knowledge and Master of Arcane Arts.”

With a wave of her hand the orbs disappear and Mez cuddled with Stateran. “There are more orders, like the one for the Wild and Elemental Lords and… others, but so far you belong in one of them and the gods and goddess in the orders are like brother and sisters to one another not by blood but by… family. The Second allowed them to be and created the orders.”

“Hmmm… How many world’s worship me, I wonder…” he paused. “All I know is that the citizen’s of Lleiya still revere me with many titles, including God of Destruction, Creation, Balance, and apparently a patron to the tragic, both tragic heroes and tragic villains and all between…”

“I see,” Mez said. “When I asked The Father why he gave you the mantle of Time he said that your idea is that of time, time is both creation and destruction, it’s both balance and chaos, he said you dreamed of a world to create and he simply gave you the tool to do it, time itself.” Stateran smiled.

“He’s a really nice god,” he commented, squeezing her ass possessively. “But I have to say you’re nicer. Especially in the body department~.”

“Thanks love,” she said, kissing him. “I wonder, when you go to him for the runes, what title will he give you?” Stateran shrugged.

“I don’t know. I mean, he said he gave me a rune on my literal brain the first time, which explains why I sometimes see things other God’s can’t see, but he also said there was the beginning of one in place already, so he just improved it,” he said honestly. She nodded.

“Well, for me it’s the Mistress of Pleasure and, oddly, Fertility, I wonder why that,” she said, raising an eyebrow. He laughed.

“Babe, you know you love it when I fill you with baby batter ‘till you bloat,” he told her, laughing again. The two laughed which caused the other two sleeping to stir.

Hikan lifted his head, arms still around Arela as he blinked the sleep from his eyes and looked around. “Hm…?” he hummed, his mind still taking its sweet time catching up. Mez giggled.

“Aww, they’re soooo cute together!” Mez said happily. Stateran nodded.

“Indeed, though I do worry for Arela’s future mental health. She wouldn’t take Hikan’s death easily, since she is ageless like all Angels, he is likely to die long before her,” Stateran said somberly. Mez slapped his shoulder lightly.

“Don’t be so moody,” she said with a giggle. This caused Arela to stir and open her eyes.

Hikan’s eyes finally came into focus. He looked towards Stateran, than towards Arela before letting a sad look flash very briefly across his face. His arms tightened ever so slightly around Arela protectively. Arela squeaked at the squeeze.

“What’s going on, my love…?” she asked before noticing the other two, especially Mez. “G-G-Great Being, Great Mistress!”

“Great Mistress?” Mez said, looking around. “Wait, you mean me?”

“My worshippers never knew who you were, but assumed you existed, so they created you in the pantheon, as a robed woman without a face. There’s actually a statue in the ballroom,” Stateran explained.

“OoooOoo, a secret goddess in your pantheon, I have any titles I should know? Like Mistress of Secrets? Or Goddess of… Umm… something?”

“Y-Y-Y-Yes, Great Mistress, you are a-a-a-also called, ‘The Caller of Mountain’s’, as well as the M-M-M-Mistress of Longing,” Arela explained. Mez blinked at this and looked at her husband.

“Caller of Mountain’s and the Mistress of Longing?” she asked, kinda confused on the meaning of the titles.

“The uh… first title is because I made the wind in all mountain tops on Lleiya gently and faintly sing in your voice, without real vocals, and the mortals believed they were you, my lover. I never told them differently, because it was true. As for the second title, it was because… Well, when my followers made a book on me, a Bible, I suppose, I told them in my words that you longed to see me and this world, so… They gave you that title,” Stateran explained, rubbing his neck nervously.

“That… that’s beautiful…” she said, wiping away a tear before standing up. “If you don’t mind, I want to see this statue alone, you know, to see for myself. You don’t mind do you?” Stateran shook his head.

“Of course not, dear,” he said, smiling. She smiled back before disappearing.

Hikan blinked at everything he had just heard. “...What… was that all about…?” He questioned.

“A lot of things, young Hikan. My wife has not had contact with me for over seventy millennia, tis understandable there is much she does not know,” Stateran explained.

The assassin stared in shock at the number before he sighed and rubbed his forehead with the heel of his hand. “That sounds… yeah, that’s fair….”

Stateran smiled at him as he saw something small and fast coming towards him. He moved out of the way and turned to see a thin needle sticking out of the tree he was leaning against. He turned back to see a dark shape moving quickly as more needles shot towards him. He moved out of the way, making the two stand up quickly as they too see the needles.

“Ah, hello, Alys, honey. Haven’t seen you in years, but I recognize that lifeforce,” Stateran said calmly. The response was a needle coming at his head. He moved his head but as it passed it glowed, exploding in smoke.

“My lord! Get down, please!” Arela cried, rushing over to him. He shook his head, stopping her with his magic.

“Tis fine, Arela. This is but another of my children, albeit she is trying to kill me, but I know the true intent,” he said calmly, dodging another needle. His eyes moved as there was a blade about an inch away from his face. He calmly bent backwards and the blade passed over him. As the smoke cleared Stateran turned and saw his child there.

The woman was around twenty years old looking and had long black hair with a silver streak that was tied into a ponytail. Her skin was white with some tattoos on her arms, legs, and chest as her clothes were that were dark red and very, very revealing, but like that of a Kunoichi. Her tail was that of a succubus but with a bladed tip at the end. Her eyes were violet coloured as she held a short black katana in her hand. She narrowed her eyes as she stepped back and disappeared into the shadows. The three of them looked around as there was a needle, longer than the rest, that hit the ground.

Arela waited for something to happen but nothing came from the needle. She then felt a prick on her neck as the woman came up behind her and put a needle in her neck, making her body numb as she then fell over, the same with the assassin. Stateran watched this calmly as she disappeared again. He heard something above him and looked up into the sun where she was coming down with her blade. He sighed, eyes glowing as she simply stopped in midair, then floated down to him.

“My dear, could you at least wait to do that after I’m done catching up with your sister?” he asked calmly. She looked at him and blinked.

“Was I at least good?” she asked, hopefully. He smiled, ruffling her hair.

“Very much so, my daughter. You’d give the Dream Knight’s a run for their money. And not just one, but all of them combined. Not even they could begin to make it here without immediately getting detected,” he said proudly. She smiled behind her dark red mask.

“Hehe, got some new stuff, like shadow walk from mom’s husband, works really well…” she stared at Stateran for a moment. “Umm, can you put me down please?” He smiled and did so, ruffling her hair again. She smiled as she looked at the other two. “Who are they?”

“Hikan, a young assassin from another world, and Arela, an Angel from my personal world, Lleiya,” he explained.

“Oooo~,” Alys said, going over and kneeling down in front of Arela. “I’ve never seen an angel up close before.”

“A High Angel, at that. Note the golden wings,” Stateran said, pointing to Arela’s wings.

A whirring noise sounded out as black armor started to form over Hikan’s arms and legs. “Stateran…,” the man started, his voice low as his limbs started to bring him up as the rest of his body remained limp. “What. Was. That?” Armor folded out over his neck and the lower part of his head before his gaze raised to show that one eye had turned orange, the pupil split into a four point star shape.

“What~!? How are you moving!?” the woman asked before looking at the armor. “Whoa, soul armor, neato.”

Hikan frowned as her form shifted and he felt a blade pressing on his back. “I do suggest you calm down, the poison in your bloodstream will make you unable to move for a few days until I give you the antidote, you have that armor but I think it’s a big no no.”

Hikan turned to face her in a blur of motion, his fist pulled back and launched at her face before she could react… only for the form to shimmer and shake as the limb went through her head. “Intent can be real bitch sometimes, can’t it?” Hikan asked as he kneeled next to Arela, checking on her as the other him flickered again. “Oh… and don’t try that again.” He raised his eyes again and looked between both of them. “I’ve been here two days, and I appreciate everything that’s happened. That you’ve done for me… but you’re starting to cross lines. Reading minds, suddenly being involved in your games. I already lived that life, and I refuse to go through it again.” Stateran stopped them both.

“Young Hikan,” he said firmly. “I apologize for reading Arela’s mind, but rest assured I will not read yours or anyone else’s unless it is in another’s best interest. Furthermore, this is no game, and it never will be. I invited you and Starlight here out of the goodness of my heart to grow stronger for the terrible future that lies ahead of your world, not for myself, even if it was nice speaking with you.” He paused. “And this woman is my daughter, Alys. she is training to be the best assassin ever known, and thus found it fitting to try and assassinate me for training.”

“AND SHE DRAGGED US IN!?” Hikan shouted, his armor pulling him to his feet. “You seem to forget that I was an assassin, and the first thing we always learned was never, EVER involve civilians that are not your target!”

“Civilians?” a voice said behind him. He turned and saw a fist punched him in the face. He fell to the ground and tried to get up before a blade was pointed at his face. “Tell me, what do you call civilians that are an assassin as well and a high angel, hmm?”

“Minding their own damn business,” A black helmet formed on his head as the rest of his armor formed for the first time since he’d been placed in his current body. A sudden will-o’-wisp flew between them, a concussive blast knocking her off. With the weight lifted, his form buzzed and he appeared further away. “And I’m sick of feeling like I’m in a minefield!”

“Stateran…” Alys called to him, looking at him. “May I?” she asked, her hand glowing. He shook his head.

“No,” he turned back to Hikan. “If you dislike me or my daughter, then you may leave. But I will no longer be able to send Arela back with you. Not if you take this route.”

Hikan’s armored form was frozen where it was. The draconic guise slowly drifted back to the floor, a whirring sound filling the air as the armor peeled away. The look on his face said it all. It was the face of someone who felt betrayed. “...I’ll keep playing by your rules…,” he said in a broken voice, his body looking like a puppet. “...But… don’t drag Arela into this… it’s the only thing I ask….” Stateran sighed.

“I’m sorry, I went too far and didn’t explain why I couldn’t. I wouldn’t be able to, not because I wouldn’t want to, but because she would require your essence to maintain her body outside of Erevale. If you leave, she would feel heartbroken and lose the ability to even maintain her body here,” Stateran explained. He walked over and placed a hand on Hikan’s shoulder. “I am not here to make enemies with you. And there were never any true rules here, only that you respect those around you and be polite.”

Hikan looked up at him from his slack position. “...How long will this poison last?” He asked in a quiet voice. He then felt a prick on his arm as there was a needle in his arm.

“It should last about a second now,” the woman said as she pulled her mask down and frowned. “And… I’m sorry, Stateran did say that I have a habit of ticking others off.” With that she bent down to the High Angel and prick her with a needle before moving away. Arela got up quickly, rushing over to Hikan.

There was no hesitation as Hikan took her into his arms and hugged her close, his body trembling slightly. “Are you okay?” He asked quietly. She nodded.

“Y-Yes…” she replied uneasily. Alys frowned as she turned to shadow and moved to Stateran’s side and reformed.

“I’m… not good at this, with what their doing… is this normal?” she asked. Stateran nodded.

“I’m afraid choosing to knock them out made things much worse,” Stateran said sadly.

“How was I supposed to know that? I thought they were bodyguards of yours,” she crossed her arms as she thought about it. Stateran looked at her as her expression changed to thinking, to frowning more, to looking upset about everything. Stateran sighed, bringing her in for a hug.

“Come on, let’s go see your sister. These two need some time,” he said, pulling her out of the Memorial. For a long while, Hikan and Arela stayed in the memorial before eventually the two stood to follow Stateran and Alys. When they arrived, a new woman was with them and in the midst of speaking.

“Not at all. It only means I love you even more, my eternal lover,” he said lovingly. She smiled as she heard footsteps coming this way. Her face vanished as she pulled away from Stateran, looking towards where she heard the footsteps. “Hmm? Ah, hello, you two.”

Hikan walked with Arela down the hall, his arm around her shoulders protectively. It seemed he still wasn’t a-okay. He simply nodded in response to the greeting. Stateran noted this quickly and sighed.

“Still quite angry, I see,” he shook his head. “For what it is worth, I am sorry. But I did not know my daughter would come to assassinate me, much less bring you two into it. Please, forgive me.”

Hikan was quiet for a second before he sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “I’m not angry, Statran,” he said softly, lifting his gaze to look at him. “At least, not as angry as the other part of me. Just… still calming down….” Stateran nodded sadly.

“What has happened?” Asilia asked him, to the shock of the High Angel.

“She’s… Just like the stories and legends…” Arela breathed, but trembled, remembering how the Great Mistress promised punishment for her earlier.

“Tis like I said to him, my love. Alys, your sister, came to assassinate me for her training, and these two got involved. The result was… Well, simply put, not good,” Stateran explained. She looked over at her husband before looking at her sister. Alys swore she saw white sparks coming out of the void that was her head. Asilia turned back before floating over to the two of them.

“Young one, for what my sister did is unforgivable and I’ll have a talk with her about what happened,” when Asilia said ‘talk’ Alys face paled as a cold shock went up her spine. “But please, don’t harbor any ill towards her, move on and look for a better tomorrow.”

Hikan blinked for a few seconds, looking between everyone in the room. “...I think I need a refresher…,” he muttered, putting his hand to his head before looking up at Asilia. “Forgive me but… who are you…?”

“I am Asilia, Mother of Gods, Caller of Mountains, Mistress of Longing and Bride of Stateran,” she introduced herself.

“In other words, she changed from Mezney to fit my world’s Pantheon,” Stateran explained.

Hikan gave his mind a second to catch up. After a moment, he had one thing to say. “...Gods are weird…,” he muttered before he shook his head, halting to look towards Asilia and give a little bow. “Hikan Kanshi, pleasure to meet you, Asilia.”

“No need to bow,” Asilia said before looking to Arela. “Oh, and you are?”

“A-A-A-Arela Vintswell, M-M-Mistress,” Arela said, bowing deeply as well.

“I’m surprised you don’t recognize her, dear. You did say something about punishing her for disrespecting River,” Stateran noted. Arela started to sweat bullets.

“River?” Asilia said before turning her head. “Where is River?”

“Hmmm…” Stateran’s eyes glowed and he sighed deeply. “In my brother Triyte’s Memorial, it seems. Fitting, I suppose, since he was father to the Demons of Lleiya.”

“Hmmm, I must see to her, Arela Vintsewell,” she turned back to her. “Mind joining me?”

“Y-Y-Yes, Mistress,” Arela squeaked, looking to Hikan quickly before turning back to Asilia and following her. The two headed off towards the Memorial before Asilia spoke.

“Tell me of yourself Arela, I want to know of you,” she asked.

“I...Well, th-th-there’s not much to say, Mistress…” she admitted. “I was born into a life of war, forced to train everyday lest the Demon’s of Hell take us…” Her voice started to break. “I… I died with my race during our final battle. Stretched and defiled so much I…” she started to cry openly. “I couldn’t… I-I couldn’t…” She then felt the cool hand of the Mistress on her shoulder.

“Calm Arela, I do not want to know the things that make you sad, I want to hear those of good you have seen, have done,” she said softly. Arela wiped her tears away.

“I… I’m sorry Mistress, forgive me,” she said softly, as if scared while she hugged herself.

“There’s no need to ask that,” the Mistress said, turning away to look forward. “It must have been a shock to you to see my other half, the one named Mezney.”

“Oh, um, yes, a little bit,” Arela admitted. The Mistress stopped and looked at the Angel.

“Then… I’m the one who needs to be apologising,” she said, bowing her head to her. Arela blaked at this.

“Wh-Wh-Wh-What?! I-I-I-I-I-I couldn’t - I can’t-!” Arela was thoroughly flustered, and, out of pure shock, fell to the ground unconscious. Asilia looked up at her as she was twitching.

“Oh dear…” she said before allowing the mists to form around the angel and carry her with the Mistress who was heading towards River.

Alys, leaning on top of a nook in the wall, looked down at her father and the young assassin. She was busy studying him to see how he moves, talk and holds himself up. He turned his head, looking directly at her.

“Honey, do remember your manners and greet young Hikan here, you’re being quite rude,” Stateran scolded her. She blinked at this before turning into shadows and shadow walking down to them. She had her mask down as she looked at Hikan.

“Hi, I’m Alys, sorry for pissing you off,” she said, holding out her hand.

Hikan took the hand and shook it. “It’s nice to meet you properly,” he answered. “And I apologize for Hikan’s temper… and for what’s about to happen.”

“Hmm?” Alys asked, not moving as her senses started to work.

“Just, don’t hurt’er, okay?” Hikan said just before he stepped backwards and released her hand, a turquoise spear of magic embedding itself into the floor where he’d been standing. As that happened, Alys was gone, disappearing in a blink of an eye… of anyone other than her father.

A flash over Hikan’s shoulder revealed Starlight, her eyes pinpricks as she swung a sword at his head. The assassin’s reaction was deft and calm as he ducked out of the blades path. Starlight’s hooves hit the ground and Hikan flipped forward with his arms behind his back, forcing the mare to block the kicks he aimed at her. The young man landed nimbly on his feet and spun in a mule kick, Starlight jumping back to avoid the blow. Starlight straightened as she felt a blade at her neck.

“You have three seconds to tell me why I shouldn’t chop your head off,” Alys threatened as her blade pushed into her neck, the mare felt some sort of magic in the blade as it touched her fur.

Starlight let out a frightened breath before she looked towards Hikan. “S-since when did you need h-help in my training?” She questioned, trying to sound confident and failing.

“I don’t,” Hikan said with a shrug, starting to step towards them. “Unfortunately, your intent was just too apparent, even from down the hall and using an invisibility spell. You have to keep that eyebrow twitch under control… but I think you need more than training right now….”

“You passed three seconds,” Alys said, pushing the blade into the mare, making her wince. A metallic click sounded out as Hikan’s armored hand wrapped around the blade. Gently pulling it back from Starlight’s neck.

“”It’s just our routine, Alys,” the man said softly, letting go of the blade. “But…,” he started looking back to Starlight. “I think this is about to get more heated than our usual sessions….” Suddenly, an ear shattering clap rang out, and all pressed their hands to their ears, turning to see Stateran with his hands together, likely from the clap. He did not look very pleased.

“Alys,” he said evenly, turning his gaze to her. She flinched at this.

“Sorry… sir,” she looked down at her feet ashamed.

“Go to my chambers and wait for me there. Me and your sister are going to have a long talk with you,” he said, tone still even and yet cold at the same time.

“Yes sir…” she said, disappearing in shadow. Stateran turned back to the other two.

“Apologies for her behavior, you two. Now, Starlight, why are you here?” He asked, tone remaining even.

Starlight gulped a bit before she answered. “U-um-”

“It’s my fault,” Hikan answered, stepping forward. “When she found her armaments and the whole thing started with the changelings, I started training her for her protection. She’s supposed to practice suppressing her intent and her sneak attack. I told her to attack randomly and without warning, regardless of our environment.” Stateran looked to him for a good, solid three minutes, seeing both mare and man sweating bullets, before nodding.

“Very well. Continue your practice, but be more mindful of those around you,” he said, though it was more of an order than a statement.

“Yes sir,” Hikan and Starlight answered, Hikan giving his usual short bow before starting to turn towards the mare. “Now where were-” He cut off as he was forced back by a slash by Starlight’s sword. He slid to a stop on the other side of the room, hands behind his back. He looked up and into the unicorn’s glowing eyes, the pupils shrunk to pinpricks once more. “I guess we’re doing this now,” he said rolling his shoulders before looking at Stateran. “I promise to keep this contained.” As he said this, four wil-o’-wisps formed and started to float around the room, light projecting from small lenses inset into them.

“Very well. In the meantime, I must see to my family,” he turned on his heel. “Do try not to harm anyone else.” With that, he left the ballroom. Hikan and Starlight continued their training, the wisp keeping them contained as Hikan pointed out some of Starlight’s mistakes. They went at it until the unicorn could no longer function correctly. The assassin put the mare on his back and went off to find the others. Halfway through the halls, though, the ground shook and trembled to the point that the man had a hard time standing. When everything grew still, the hunter began to sprint down the halls

Hikan came running out suddenly of the large building, his breath catching as he slid to a stop next to Stateran, an exhausted and sweat drenched Starlight on his back. “What the hell just happened!?” He questioned frantically, his eyes glued to the dragon as it flew away, his green irises briefly flashing orange.

“Oi! Assassin kid, you missed it!” Mez yelled at him. River giggled as she made faces like a dragon, making the High Angel giggle.

Hikan stared confused at each of them before turning to Stateran, his eyes desperate for some sort of straight answer.

“The Father, the one who gifted me my Godhood, took notice of the barrier around Erevale and all realms of my own making, and destroyed it,” Stateran explained. Arela was glaring at Starlight, he noted, but left it for them to deal with. It wasn’t his business.

Hikan, still looking a bit confused, looked around at the surroundings before shaking his head. “I… guess that’s a… good thing…?” He said, looking back up at Stateran.

“It is most certainly a good thing. It means my children can finally come home,” Stateran said, seeming to glow with happiness. Mez heard this and smiled as well.

“You mean our kids,” she said, pulling her twin, who was wearing her hood up, her face gone, to her.

“Yes, dear. All of our beautiful children will be coming home,” he said with a large smile. The two twins looked at one another before turning back to one, Asilia walked over and hugged her husband. He blinked at this but quickly hugged her back. Then, slowly, numerous figures appeared in the distance, drawing closer and closer.

Alys saw them and went into the shadows, nervous of so many of them coming closer. River was hugging her friend, bouncing in excitement for no real reason.

“Maybe Mezney should be the one to see them all,” Asilia said.“She’s really the one that birthed them, and… I’m tired my love…” Stateran gave her a sad look, but slowly nodded.

“Very well, dearest. But I’ll remember to show you our beautiful children after her,” he promised, kissing her. “And fill you up nicely after some fun~.”

“I guess that’s… fair,” she said, sounding tired as Stateran felt she was smiling at him. He smiled.

“Alright, go ahead and rest, my lovely,” he told her softly. She nodded as her being changed to that of Mezney. Stateran noticed that her breasts and ass grew a bit bigger, not the same size as normal but still large. She stretched a bit.

“Oooo, I simply can’t wait!” Mez said with a grin before wrapping an arm around the High Angel. “You’re going to see my kids! I’m so happy that I can kiss you!” Arela blushed, quickly rushing over to Hikan and grabbing him possessively

“Calm down, dear. Save it for the children, please,” Stateran said softly. Mez grinned, vibrating.

“Can you blame me?” she asked. He laughed.

“I suppose not,” he said before one of the figures approached. She was tall, not as tall as him, but tall, with multiple scars littering her perfectly tanned body. She had amber hair in a long ponytail that went down to her red short shorts, and a simple wrapping of bandages to keep her GG cup breasts in check. She rushed over and wrapped Stateran in a bone crushing hug.

“Pops! It’s so good to see you! How is everything? Did you kill that bastard? Damn, wish I was there to see the awesomeness!” the woman laughed. She noticed Mez. “Uhh… Pops, who’s the lady? You’ve never had girls over, always said it was too painful…”

“Oh, you’re feisty!” Mez said with a giggle as she circled her. “Don’t you recognize your own mother? No, wait, maybe not, oh well come here!” she then wrapped her arms around her, giving her a bone crushing hug as well. The woman blinked at this, before realization dawned on her.

“HOLY SHITBALLS! MOMMA PARRY?!?!?” the woman cried, hugging her back. Mez laughed at this.

“Momma Parry! I love it!” she yelled. “Just to be the greeting bunch, I’m Mezney, or Mez, or as you said, Momma Parry!” Mez noted that the woman was sniffling quietly and felt tears on her back, the woman obviously trying to hide it.

“My love, this is our little tough girl, Grel. She’s grown a lot,” Stateran explained. Mez smiled as she turned around and pulled Grel into a hug.

“My little tough girl,” she whispered, petting her hair. “It’s okay to cry… I missed you… and your siblings so much,” she said, sniffling as well as tears filled her eyes. Grel slowly let the tears fall freely, and the two cried for a few long minutes. Finally, Grel broke away, wiping her tears with a grin.

“It’s awesome to see you, Momma Parry. Dad used to tell me of the times you parried guys like it was nothing, and I kinda admired it,” she rubbed the back of her head. “Also… Did Dad tell you about my kids?”

“Kids…?” Mez said before beaming with joy. “You have kids! Oh my…your father, I’m a grandmother… again! Come here you!” she then picked her up and spun her around happily. Grel laughed.

“Mom, put me down, I don’t wanna flash Dad!” she laughed.

“Oh! Sorry,” she said, putting her down and simply hugging her. “Ohh I’m so proud of my little tough girl… or should I say tough Momma!” Grel laughed, pulling herself from her mother.

“Yeah, my two kids are busy with their own mortals, though, so I was the only one to come. Sorry ‘bout that,” Grel apologised.

“Oh don’t be sorry, I’ll see them soon,” Mez said as she looked down at her chest and smiled. “Also, nice you took after me a bit!”

“Heh, yeah. Ditty’s bigger, though, I just don’t care about all the frilly clothes she wears, so I’ve just worn these,” she said, juggling her boobs a bit before laughing. She noted Hikan and Starlight. “Whoa damn kiddo, you got a lot of struggle in ya, both past and future!”

Hikan blinked at the sudden attention, shuffling Starlight on his back. He gave Arela a look of mixed emotions before turning back. “Um… yeah,” he answered. “I guess having two-” he winced in pain as his left eye shot orange for a moment. “Sorry, three, lives worth of experiences does that….” Grel blinked before laughing.

“Well, guess I’ll be watching you, then!” she said with a smile. She then turned to the Void behind them. “Ah, here comes my favorite little bro!” Suddenly, just walking casually from the Void, was a man in a gray hoodie that Stateran and Mez recognized, along with black and blue hiking boots and gray cargo shorts. He had a green backpack on his back as he walked slowly.

“Is that...Feiray?” Mez asked both her husband and Grel.

“Yes, that is our little wanderer, alright. I recognize the hoodie. It’s the one I gave him, remember?” Stateran reminded her.

“Yeah, he’s been with me every once in awhile. We tag team helping mortals through strife every now and again,” Grel nodded.

“Dear, tough Momma, I would like to stay and chat but…” she then started to run. “FEIRAY!!!!!!!!” Feiray blinked, his hazel blue eyes watching her as she approached while his charcoal black Survivor style beard reminded her of her own black hair. She ran into him with a hug, his head in between her large breasts. “My little wanderer is all grown up! Look at you! So rugged!”

He paused at this, before slowly pulling her off of him. “Mother?” he said incredulously. Tears started to form in his eyes, but he quickly wiped them away and smiled. “It’s… Really good to see you, Mother.” He noticed that she was crying.

“I miss you all~!” she cried, hugging him tightly. He smiled wider, accepting the hug gratefully.

“I missed you too, Mother. But following yours and Dad’s advice helped me cope,” he told her softly. She smiled at this.

“Yeah… Oh! Your father!” Mez then started to drag Feiray to the others. Once there, they found the group with Grel, and Feiray gave her a fist bump.

“Hey, good to see ya, sis,” he grinned.

“Damn straight,” she replied. Suddenly, he felt huge arms wrap around him, and saw his father’s face.

“My son…” he said, tears in his eyes.

“Oi, don’t cry, Dad. You’ll get me going, to,” Feiray said with a chuckle. Stateran laughed, wiping his tears.

“It’s great to see you, son,” he said as he placed Feiray down. As the two talked, Mez stood beside her daughter with a smile.

“So… who’s the lucky guy~,” she asked with a smile. Grel looked away with a deep blush. “Ohoo, is the tough Momma blushing? My he’s one hell of a man!”

“...Dragon, actually…” Grel said after a bit.

“Oooo, you are my daughter!” Mez said, hugging her. “You know before I met your father I slept with a few dragons, brave souls but they’re fun!” Grel blushed more.

“He’s a… Primordial, so he’s uh… got some really big packages,” Grel admitted, blush deepening.

“A… Primordial dragon… damn… you lucky girl, I never bedded a primordial!” Mez hugged her more. “So proud of you!” Mez then heard Stateran speak in her mind.

‘I can be a pretty badass and big dragon if you want, Bouncy~. I’ve seen her lover, I can top it easily~,’ Stateran said lecherously in her mind. She looked at him with a lusty grin.

‘Later, momma wants some big dragon cock,’ she said before looking back to Grel. “So what’s his name?”

“Draigo. But he’s uh… Still working on getting his two lifelong lovers to agree with having me around. They’ve accepted me, yes, but it’s more my… Habit of destroying things they can’t tolerate,” Grel admitted, scratching her cheek nervously.

“Do you love him?” Mez asked. “Do you love Draigo?”

“Well, yeah, of course, it’s just…” Grel shivered. “His Tia and Lulu are really scary.”

Mez laughed, “Those two! Hell I remember turning into the blue one!” she brought her daughter closer. “Listen, just stay true to your heart and everything will turn out fine. But if you need help, just give me a ring and I’ll come runnin.” Grel was still nervous.

“Well… He’s got a number of other lovers, too. All in his adoptive son’s world, and they had kids before I did. He’s got…” she counted her fingers. “About five more there, I think.”

“Still, I’m one hell of a fighter,” Mez tapped her chin for a moment. “Say, when we have free time, want to go see if we can fight something? Mother and Daughter against… something?” Grel grinned.

“Hell yeah!” Grel agreed. They all then heard the sound of armor clinking and clanking, and turned to see a blood stained, dented, steel suit of armor with a Spartan-like helmet, and the being was quite tall, the plumage a blood red and frazzled, and a spear and shield in either hand. Everyone stared at the spartan warrior.

“Refresh my memory honey, it been a while,” Mez whispered to Grel.

“Oh, that’s just Kraek. Ya know, Dad made him a God of War and all?” Grel reminded.

“Our little warrior, honey,” Stateran added.

“Oooo…” Mez then walked up to her warrior. “My, you sure grew!”

“And you are, Miss…?” the warrior asked, voice echoing under the helmet. She grinned at the warrior.

“I’m your mom you lug, now give me a hug!” she said, spreading her arms out. He looked at her for a long moment, before slowly, almost shakily, hugging her. When he did, she could hear very silent and forced back sobs. She smiled and rubbed his back. “There there, momma is here.”

Hikan stared about at all the beings, gods, starting to gather around them. “Maybe… we should leave them to it?” The assassin whispered to Arela while Starlight muttered something about waffles from his back.

“That might be best, yes,” Arela agreed.

Hikan nodded and took one more look around before he started to walk back towards the halls… only to stop and hesitate. “Um… sudden thought,” he said quietly. “If all their kids are coming back… doesn’t that mean that they’ll be taking their rooms back?”

“Oh…” Arela noted he was right. “Well, you can sleep with me, if you want.”

Hikan looked at her as he thought about this for a moment… before he gave a warm smile. “I think that’ll be just fine,” he said before he seemed to realize something. His hand went to his waist for a second, his eyes starting go a bit wide with worry. “But I seem to have the rest of my stuff in the room Stateran had me staying in….”

“Which room?” Arela asked.

“Uh… the one with all the masks…?” Hikan answered after a second. “...Yep, definitely that one.”

“Oh… That would be Mistress Tatiya’s room,” Arela said. “I can take you there, but… I couldn’t let myself defile such a holy room, so you’d have to enter yourself.”

“I can handle that,” Hikan replied giving a little nod. “Though, to be fair, it’s going to be kinda hard to put everything on with miss sleepyhead on my back.” He nodded towards the mare on his shoulder as she grumbled something about Pinkie Pie. Arela glared at her but nodded, taking them all to the Hall of Gods where his room was.

Chapter 7

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 8- Kill the Invasion

Chapter 8-

Kill the Invasion

Hikan blinked slowly as they reappeared in the room he and Starlight had been in before being transported away to Erevale. “That…,” the assassin murmured bringing a hand up to his forehead. “Is going to take a lot of getting used to.”

Starlight just gave a nod and a groan as she brought her hands up to rub the area surrounding her horn. “I'd take my portal jumping any day….”

“I believe… I might need a moment,” Arela said, holding her mouth in anticipation of vomiting.

Hikan took a moment to steady himself, blinking a few lights from his eyes. “Okay…,” he murmured, giving one last shake of his head. “We should probably get going if we want to catch the train to Ponyville.”

“Well, maybe if someone didn't sleep all day,” Starlight said with a sigh, reaching towards her back pocket… before abruptly stopping and going wide eyed. She gave a nervous chuckle. “Uhhh, I'llberightback!” A bright flash lit up the room as the mare suddenly disappeared.

Arela blinked, then rushed over to a trash can and threw up. Hikan simply walked over and held her hair up and out of the way. He waited for her to finish, rubbing her back gently. “Better?” He asked. She nodded, raising her head from the can.

“Yes, I am fine now…” she assured, standing back up and stretching her wings.

Hikan gave a little smile and rubbed her back one more time before he gently let her hair back down and went to the wardrobe and opened it up. He reached into the top and pulled out a rather large pouch that jingled when he moved it. “Probably best not to tell Starlight about this,” he said, glancing at Arela for a second before closing the doors once more.

“What was that, my love?” Arela asked, looking to him.

“Just some extra cash I, uh, 'saved' from the cave Star got her armor from,” Hikan answered, giving a nervous chuckle and scratching the back of his head. He eventually stopped and turned slightly more serious. “We'd better get going or we really will miss that train.” He went to the door and opened it, holding it, and giving a small bow and smile. “Ladies first.” Arela giggled, walking over and giving him a peck on the cheek as she walked by.

“Thank you, my love,” she said warmly.

She only just had time to finish her sentence before the door across the hall suddenly swung open, a soft purplish-pink blur rushing out only to make a quick stop as Starlight slammed into Arela, falling backwards onto the floor. Arela groaned a bit, looking up and quickly pushing Starlight off.

“Watch where you're going, fala,” Arela hissed, the last word sounding archaic yet also smooth and flowing.

Starlight groaned and rubbed her head. “If my head didn't feel like I'd slammed it into a boulder, I'd be offended,” the unicorn muttered, wincing as she touched a particularly sensitive spot. “Damn it, your head is so much harder than Hikan's stomach….”

Hikan's hand met his face and he shook his head for a moment. “This is going to happen a lot, isn't it?” He muttered to himself before giving a sigh and stepping forward to help them both up. “You guys are going to be the death of both me and the schedule.”

Starlight's eyes went wide and she let out a gasp. “The train! We'll be late!” She all but yelled, scrambling to her hooves and racing down the hall, completely ignoring the hunter's hand. Arela growled before taking Hikan's hand, pulling herself up.

“I still do not like her,” Arela said truthfully, shooting a look behind her to Starlight's retreating form before looking back to Hikan.

Hikan gave a little sigh before chuckling, putting a hand around the angel's shoulder as he started to lead her down the hall and out of the inn. “Please try to be civil,” he said, mostly joking. “She probably isn't going anywhere anytime soon. And besides, she lightens the mood… most of the time.”

Arela sighed, leaning into his hold as they walked. “Yes, my love,” she replied.

“Thank you, Arela,” Hikan said, leaning down and giving the angel a quick kiss on the top of her head. They soon made it out of the inn, Starlight waiting just outside the door for them as she nervously ran in place. Together they made their way to the train station, and bought their tickets for the ride to Ponyville. More than a few of the small town's occupants tossed strange looks towards Hikan and Arela, but no one seemed to make a huge fuss and kept on their way. Hikan slumped into a bench and leaned his head back, closing his eyes.

“See, what'd I tell you Starlight?” He questioned. “We had plenty of time.”

“Indeed,” Arela agreed, before turning to Hikan. “But I am curious, what is a train?”

Starlight gave a little huff and smirked haughtily. “I guess angels aren't all that hot if they couldn't even invent locomotives,” she said, putting her hands on her hips and giving Arela an 'I win' look. “Trains are huge machines capable of reaching speeds of one hundred and fifty-seven miles per hour and carry literally hundreds of ponies from one place to another.” Arela blinked.

“We Angels had the second most advanced technology in Lleiya, the Dwarves being the first. We had teleportation arrays, Heaven's Wraths, and we even created Mana script, which became the foremost language of mages around Lleiya,” Arela informed. “We had no real need for land vehicles, as we had the arrays and our wings.”

Hikan let out a laugh as Starlight looked very deflated after the verbal beating she'd just undergone. It didn't last long though as she drew herself back up and steeled her features. “W-well, ponies-” She was quickly cut off as a loud horn sounded through the air.

“Oh, thank the lord above all that is good!” Hikan mumbled, standing to his feet as the train began to pull into the station. “If miracles are real, please let us make it through this trip without bloodshed….” The train came to a stop and the doors opened up, letting the passengers off a few at a time. It wasn't long before the conductor was waving them on with cries of “All aboard!”

However, as the group started to step onto the train, the laws of the universe had different plans for them as the sky and area around them suddenly started to darken. Arela looked up immediately.

“My love, why is the sun blotted out by innumerable insects?” Arela asked, pointing to the things blotting out the sun.

Hikan and Starlight quickly jerked their eyes to the sky as Changelings swarmed through the air, the sheer number of them blotting out the sun. “We're too late…,” Hikan said quietly, eyes wide with fear. Then the screaming started. Hikan and Starlight both dropped their gaze to find a squad of Changelings rampaging through the small pioneertown. “Starlight, we need a way to Ponyville, now!” Hikan shouted, tensing and flicking his arms as Dorkifu formed its clawed gauntlets over his arms.

“I'm on it!” Starlight answered, pulling the Staff of Secrets from a portal as Cataclysm suddenly made himself known from his hiding place on her back underneath her mane. But at the sound of the pair's shouting, the group of Changelings suddenly swung their eyes in their direction, giving out dangerous hissing as they spotted the two. Arela's eyes narrowed, realizing these were enemies.

A blinding light covered her, like the sun itself were shining it's light exclusively on her, despite being blotted out, and a set of large, pure gold armor appeared on her, covering her form completely and being so bulky that it gave her a foot and a half of extra height.

Then, she summoned her gold, silver and lapis gilded halberd and twirled it expertly before pointing it at the Changelings.

“Come, insects! Feel the wrath of a High Angel!” Arela challenged.

“Keep them off Starlight!” Hikan instructed, taking a defensive stance as the first drone reached him. The insectoid slashed at the man, its claws aimed at his throat only to be blocked by his armored wrist before he swung his other arm, cleaving the Changeling in two before he was faced with two more. Arela nodded, and spread her wings, before speeding towards a group of Changelings who were approaching Starlight, and cleaving them all in twain with a single, blurred strike of her halberd. She turned to face the rest as they approached.

By this point, more than a few of the Changelings had noticed the commotion the group was throwing up and quickly locked onto where Hikan and Arela were fighting, Starlight behind them with her staff raised as her other hand made circles in the air, turquoise magic beginning to form a circle in front of her.

More drones swarmed Hikan, though it was more like throwing themselves into a blender as the assassin spun and twirled expertly through and around them, the wings on his arms acting as the perfect blades.

Arela was like a hurricane of death, weaving in between Changelings and attacks, and weaving her own weapon so expertly and fluidly that it was like she was a storm. Legs, heads, arms, torsos, all went flying as she cut one Changeling down after another.

A flash of light behind them caught Hikan's attention as he grabbed hold of a Changeling, spinning and throwing it into an approaching group. “The portal's open!” Starlight shouted, turning and firing off several blasts of magic at the tide of Changelings. “Let's go!”

“Arela, you and Starlight first!” Hikan called over the sounds of conflict.

“Right!” Arela said, cleaving another Changeling's head before rushing into the portal.

“Hikan, come on!” Starlight shouted as she continued to fire off into the swarm.

“Go, I'm right-” The assassin was interrupted as the ground shook with a loud boom. Human and pony looked up just in time to see a brute class Changeling land, giving a screeching, bug-like cry before rushing them. Hikan's eyes went wide and he was suddenly beside the mare, wrapping his arm around her waist. “Fuck it, jumping in now!” He yelled, picking up the unicorn and jumping through the portal after Arela, the brute not far behind.

The three of them crashed to the floor of the room, books surrounding them as Twilight Sparkle and a young woman with short horns stared at them. “Appleloosa…?” Twilight muttered to herself in confusion as three figures came through the portal.

“My love, where are we?” asked a short, small angel with golden wings, short brown hair, snow white skin, and a long, white, strange corset with coat tails that went down to her knees and very long sleeves that went down past her hands. It had gold trim and pink laces tying the corset together.

Alexandria, Shanghai and Twilight all blinked in bewilderment at the sight of what seemed to be a literal angel in front of them, unsure of what to say. The angel noticed this, looking to them.

“...Is that… A demon?” the angel asked, frowning at Alexandria.

It took Alexandria a moment to realize what the angel said. “Oh, er, no, I'm not a demon,” she said to the angel. The angel sighed in relief, relaxing.

The young man had his arm around a soft purple-pink mare with a purple and turquoise mane, a small white dragon with dark gray feathers clinging to her back. “Oh, that was no fun,” the man said, rubbing the messy brown hair from his eyes despite the bit of honey blonde that stuck up into the air over his left eye. He raised his green gaze… until it landed on Alexandria. “John?”

“Uh, sort of,” Alexandria answered, caught by surprise. “I'm Alexandria Kijin, though John has given me his memories… I'm guessing you knew him?”

“Yeah, we were friends,” the man answered, getting to his feet, something black and scaley dragging on the ground under his brown, fur lined coat. “It's me, Hikan- I mean, Jeremy, but I go by Hikan no-” The man named Hikan's explanation cut short as he was suddenly slammed from behind, hitting a bookshelf as a huge mass of black chitin pinned him by the back of his neck, his boots hanging three feet over the ground.

“Hikan!” Starlight shouted, cutting her magic to the portal off as she lifted her hand to prepare a magic blast. But Arela reached him before she ever could, and, summoning her halberd once more, rushed over and thrusted the end of it, the spear, through its throat in one swift, fluid movement. She glared up at the Changeling.

“Farewell, filin,” she growled, before swiftly moving the halberd through its neck and cutting the head off, which fell and rolled to the floor in front of Alexandria.

Alexandria quickly used her foot to roll the head away from her, wanting nothing to do with it. “What in Hakugyokurou was that?” she asked.

Starlight's eyes went to the Yokai before they widened as they landed on Twilight. In a flash of light, the pink unicorn was in front of her mentor, grabbing onto her wrists in fright. “Twilight-Changelings-Coming-Entire hive-!” She said frantically, her hands moving through the air as she tried to explain.

Alexandria's eyes widened. “There's a whole hive of those Changeling things coming here!?”

“That's not good at all,” Twilight said. “But… why would they suddenly invade like this?” Twilight's brows furrowed in thought for a few moments before she shook her head and looked at Alexandria. “Alexandria, I'd like to ask you to help defend against the invasion. Try and enlist the help of your friends if possible.”

“Right,” Alexandria said to Twilight with a quick nod. Twilight then turned to the others as Alexandria rushed out of the room.

“I want all of you to go and help as well, alright?” she said to the three of them.

“That sounds fine to me. Helping the innocent and weak is a High Angel's calling, after all,” the angel said, pulling the body of the Changeling off of Hikan after making the halberd disappear.

Hikan rolled over and rubbed his head before nodding. “Will do,” he affirmed as he got shakily to his feet. “Besides, if I remember John, he's a pacifist mostly. Starlight, you should probably stay here and catch up Twilight while you get your strength back.”

“Pfft, what are you talking about? I'm fine,” Starlight said, waving a hand at him before she tried to step towards them… only to lose her balance and fall towards the floor. Arela forced back a snicker as she did this.

Twilight grabbed Starlight's arms from behind and pulled her back upright. “No, Starlight, you are definitely not fine. You're going to stay here and rest.” After a moment, Twilight added, “and since when did you want to be on the front lines of a battle?”

Starlight groaned as the little dragon on her shoulder looked at her worriedly. “It's a long story, Twi…,” she answered as Hikan started on his way out of the library, following after Alexandria.

Arela looked to Starlight, then Hikan, and followed him, not wanting to spend time with Starlight.

Hikan made it outside just in time to watch Alexandria take to the air and fly in the direction of the Carousel Boutique. The angel approached Hikan, looking up and seeing Alexandria fly off.

“Do you think her and these, 'others', will be enough, my love?” she queried.

Hikan was quiet for a second as he watched Alexandria fly. “...I sure hope so…,” he answered before he took off his coat, letting his black and orange wings unfurl as he tied it around his waist. He took a few nervous glances at them before running forward and jumping into the air, his take off more than a little clumsy as he followed after the Yokai. The High angel giggled at this and followed after him, taking flight as well.

Once at the Carousel Boutique, Alexandria went inside and made a beeline for Alice. Alice looked up from what she was doing and, when she saw how serious Alexandria looked, put everything down. “Alex?” she asked, slightly concerned.

“Alice, I need you to help me, please,” Alexandria said to Alice, urgency clear in her voice.

“Alright, with what?” Alice asked.

“Defending against invading forces,” Alexandria answered. “C'mon, we need more help,” Alexandria continued, motioning Alice to follow, who complied and followed Alexandria outside. Not long after the two walked outside, a blur of motion slammed into the ground with a thud and an, “ACK!” Hikan lay on the ground unmoving, his draconic wings twitching here or there.

Alexandria approached Hikan. “You okay there Hikan?” she asked him, concern in her voice. The High Angel landed gracefully next to Hikan, giggling a bit at his landing.

“Maybe I should teach you how to fly some time, my love,” the angel said, helping Hikan up.

Alexandria looked at the angel. “I don't think I've gotten your name yet,” she said. “Do you mind sharing?”

“Oh, excuse me for my bad manners,” the angel said, turning to face Alexandria and doing a curtsy. “Arela Biore, Lady of House Biore and High Angel. Nice to meet you, Miss…?”

“Alexandria Kijin, half-human half-Yokai,” Alexandria answered. She then turned to the girl in the blue dress next to her. “And this is my first, and best, friend.”

“Alice Margatroid, Magician and expert doll maker,” the girl named Alice said with a curtsy of her own. “I figure the man's name is Hikan?”

“That would in fact be me,” the man in question answered, rubbing his neck. “Hikan Kanshi, master assassin of the Revolutionary Army's special unit, Night Raid.”

“And my darling Devoted,” Arela said, hugging his arm with a smile.

“'Devoted',” Alexandria repeated. “What exactly would that mean?”

“It is like what you humans would call marriage, only different in that it lasts even after death, as well as a few other things,” Arela explained.

“Alright, I understand,” Alexandria answered. “Anyway, if you can get your flying under control, Hikan, we need to go around and get as much help as we can before the Changelings get here,” Alexandria went on to say.

“Aha, aha, aha,” Hikan fake laughed, letting his wings fold and unfurl a few times. “I can keep up just fine… just need to work on the landing….” Arela giggled.

“You're adorable when you're trying to be tough, my love,” Arela said, kissing Hikan's cheek, having to stand up on her toes, but she did it nonetheless.

“Alright, if you can keep up, then do so,” Alexandria said. “I plan on doing my best to protect this place, so I'm going to leave you behind to gather my friends quicker if you can't keep up.” With that, Alexandria took flight again, with Alice quickly following suit, the two heading off towards the Everfree Forest.

Hikan mumbled something, glancing at Arela for a second before performing his awkward running take off once more, though it wasn't as bad as the first. Arela giggled again as she followed after. As she did, she corrected her Devoted on his wing position and much more so that he could more easily fly without wobbling or crashing.

Alexandria and Alice then made a dive under the foliage a little bit further ahead. Once they'd landed on the forest floor, they found themselves in front of Marisa's house. Alexandria knocked on the door, which was quickly answered by Cirno. “Alexandria, are you here for more practice?” she asked.

“Not this time, Cirno,” Alexandria answered. “I need both you and Marisa to come help me with something. Make sure to tell Marisa that it's extremely urgent, alright?”

“Yeah, sure, hang on,” Cirno said before turning and rushing into the house. Cirno could be heard shouting “Marisa!” from inside. A loud rustling sounded out as more than a few leaves fell out of the trees followed by frustrated grunts and growls.

“Damn trees and their damn limbs and their damn- grrr- ow! Damn it!” Alexandria put her hand over her face and just shook her head at this. Arela giggled as she came down with Hikan, who was covered in leaves and foliage, Arela giggling at him all the while.

“I told you to use your wings to slow down, my love,” she said with a small laugh as she picked off the leaves and thistles and the like from Hikan's clothes.

“Yeah, I tried that and ended up getting them stuck on the tree branches,” the assassin muttered, picking out a few twigs from his hair before giving a sigh. “Sorry, just… sorry.”

“Maybe you should have tried decelerating before you reached the canopy?” Alexandria suggested, slight frustration in her voice.

Hikan shot a look towards Alex, giving a little frown. “Gee, thanks, I'll remember that next time I fly into a forest at god knows how fast,” he replied, his tone gruff and aggravated.

Alexandria had a rather pissed look on her face, as she grated her teeth slightly with her eyes squeezed shut, and her hands balled into fists. She suddenly raised one of her arms quickly.

Frustration [Flip]

In a split second, Hikan found himself flipped upside down. The man's eyes widened before he grew a scowl on his face, his lips curling into a snarl. His arm flicked out, a cannon forming before a small, concussive blast flipped him back over.

“Are we really doing this now!?” Hikan shouted, stepping up to Alexandria. Arela growled, speeding over to Alexandria in a flurry of motion and gold feathers, halberd summoned and tip pointed at her throat.

“Explain, fala,” she said threateningly. “Lest I show your friends your headless corpse.”

Alice looked like she was ready to attack at a moment's notice. Alexandria put her hands up. “Alright, calm down. It was a harmless gesture. Just a release of frustration. I meant him no harm.” As Alexandria explained this, the doll that had been on her shoulder had stood up and was looking at the halberd with worried eyes.

Hikan's eyes flicked from Alex to the strange doll for several seconds before he straightened up and let out a long, hot breath. “We don't have time to let out our frustrations,” he said, his cold tone far from the heat in his green eyes. “If you need to release your frustrations so badly, wait for the coming battle. Don't waste your energy fighting the people that are supposed to be your friends.”

Alexandria sighed. “Okay, I understand. I'll try to keep my emotions under control,” she said.

“What in Hakugyokurou's going on out here?” came a voice from the house. Standing in the doorway was a girl dressed like a witch from a child's story, with a black, pointy hat and a black dress, broomstick in hand. A young girl with icy wings and a blue dress was standing to the side behind the witch, looking out from under her arm.

The assassin's eyes drifted from one of Alex's friends to the next, finally stopping on Alexandria herself. “What kind of a team are you putting together?” He asked, confusion clear on his face and in his voice. Arela slowly removed her halberd from Alexandria's throat, but kept her glare on the woman.

Alexandria put her hands back down with a sigh of relief. The doll on her shoulder also relaxed. “I'm putting together a team of people that are stronger than they look,” Alexandria responded. “They're all people that I know I can trust to help when it's needed.” She then turned to the two girls in the doorway. “C'mon, I need you two to come with me. There's an impending invasion on its way, and I'm gathering everyone to help defend against it.”

“Sounds like an incident,” the witch said. “Alright, I'll help.”

“I don't really get a lot of what you said,” the winged girl added, “but if it'll help, then I, Cirno, the strongest, will go with you!”

Arela looked at the other two women and grunted before walking back over to Hikan and leaning into him as she hugged his arm, halberd having disappeared. Hikan wrapped his other arm around her momentarily before he looked at Alex. “If you say they can handle it, then let's skip the convincing and keep moving. Juno's forces aren't going to waste time in Appleloosa.”

“Of course,” Alexandria said. “Alright, we've got one more stop to make.” After saying that, Alexandria took back to the air, leaving through the forest canopy with Alice, Cirno and the witch following her.

“Come, my love, let us not tarry,” Arela said, spreading her golden wings.

Hikan nodded, letting his wings fold out as he looked to the trees… before he paused and let his wings contract. “...Y'know, maybe you should go first,” he said. “Maybe I can learn something from watching you.” Arela giggled, reaching up and kissing his cheek.

“Very well, my love,” she said, before flapping her wings and lifting off the ground, then maneuvering through the canopy expertly. Hikan's eyes watched her every movement to the tiniest detail before he started to run after her, jumping up and rebounding off and up the trees until he reached the highest branch that would support him before tensing up and jumping into the air, wings taking his weight as they grabbed the air.

As the two exited the forest canopy, they found the witch sitting sideways on her broomstick in a casual and somewhat carefree manner, having lagged behind the others, her intentions becoming clear as she spoke out to the two. “I haven't seen you two before,” she said, her speech casual. “I'm Marisa Kirisame, just a normal magician. Mind telling me who you are?” Arela turned to the woman and performed a curtsy midair.

“Arela Biore,” Arela greeted.

“Hikan KaAHnshi,” Hikan answered, wobbling mid flight as he tried to multitask. It didn't work.

Marisa swooped down swiftly and steadied Hikan. “Careful,” she said in a serious tone. “Make sure you understand your limits, and don't cross 'em. If you can't talk and fly at the same time, then don't.” Arela flew over, giving her Devoted another kiss on the cheek.

“Indeed, my love. I can teach you more as we go,” she told him with a warm smile.

Hikan nodded his head, refocusing on flying but giving one last murmur. “Pushing my limits is how I've survived….”

“Well, if you push your limits too often, you'll just break yourself,” Marisa answered. “So I'd suggest taking it a bit easier.” Marisa's serious expression was then replaced with a small grin. “Anyway, it was nice meeting you and all, but I'm gonna catch up with the others now.” With that, Marisa accelerated and made for the others, who were making for a large field of sunflowers up ahead. Arela followed after her, gold wings flapping as she did. Hikan did his best to keep up.

Arela noted a parasol down in the field below, and, having not seen one in millennia, smiled wide.

“Is that a parasol? I love those! Who's is it?” Arela asked Alice, pointing to it.

Alice glanced down where Arela was pointing. “That's Yuuka's parasol,” she said. “Yuuka is incredibly strong, but wouldn't help us if we asked. She only cares about maintaining her field of sunflowers.” Arela frowned at this.

“Oh… Alright then,” Arela said as they kept flying.

“Don't damage any of her flowers either,” Marisa chimed in. “You'll barely have enough time to regret it. Trust me on this.” Arela nodded.

“Noted,” she said.

As the group kept going, they surpassed the far edge of the sunflower field, which gave way to an equally as impressive field of Lily-of-the-Valley flowers. Alexandria angled down a bit, making a descent towards a figure with blonde hair and a red dress.

“Ah, I should have known…” Alice mumbled to herself.

Hikan's eyes narrow at that as they began to descend. “Should've known what?” He asked.

“Should have known that Alex would ask Medicine Melancholy to help,” Alice answered. “Her and I…” Alice paused for a moment, trying to think of how to put it. “We don't get along very well. At all, really.”

Alexandria suddenly butted in. “Sorry, but the two of you are going to have to put aside your differences for now. Protecting Ponyville should take precedence over that stuff, okay?” Alice just grumbled to herself under her breath.

Hikan chuckled a bit before flying a bit closer to Arela. “Almost sounds like you and Starlight,” he muttered just loud enough for her to hear past his mischievous smile.

“Hmph, just because I do not like that fala doesn't mean I wouldn't be able to fight alongside her,” Arela said, turning her nose up at the mention of Starlight.

“What's that word mean?” Marisa asked. “You know, fala.” Arela blinked.

“Oh, apologies, I forget that you humans don't know about angel customs and culture,” Arela cleared her throat. “Fala is the angel word for horned beings, typically translating to 'horned child stealer', but there is more to it.”

Alexandria twitched almost imperceptibly in response to the implications that the word was derogatory. She then decelerated as they approached the figure that Alice had called Medicine. “Medicine,” Alexandria started, “I'd like to ask you to help me with something important. Do you think-”

Medicine turned around as Alexandria was speaking, but then cut her off when she noticed Alice. “You,” she said. “No, I refuse to work together with her. There's no way in Hakugyokurou that I'd ever help that damned doll maker.”

“Medicine,” Alexandria said, her tone having a hint of frustration, “I don't care about that right now. You're going to need to put that conflict aside for now, unless you want to risk everyone living here dying.”

“Is that supposed to be a threat?” Medicine asked. “Because I don't think I like your damn ton-”

“Um, um…!” the doll on Alexandria's shoulder cut her off suddenly, its voice sounding urgent. “The sky behind us looks all black. Isn't that a bad thing?” Everyone quickly turned to see that the sky to the South had what appeared to be a huge, pitch-black cloud. And it was approaching rather quickly.

“Changelings,” Hikan murmured, his scowl forming. He turned to Alexandria and Medicine. “We're out of time. Those bastards will be on top of Ponyville in no time, and they will kill everyone here.”

“So that's what you meant,” Medicine said. “Fine. For now, I guess I can tolerate being on the same side as Alice. No guarantees that I'll be anywhere near her while fighting though.”

“That's fine,” Alexandria said. “As long as you help us.” Alexandria then turned toward the incoming swarm of Changelings. “Alright then, you ready Shanghai?” she asked, addressing the doll on her shoulder.

“You should know by now that I'm always ready to help you Alexandria,” the doll answered.

“Alright then, let's go,” Alexandria said, flying off towards the swarm, the help she had enlisted following her. Arela followed as well, having not landed to avoid stepping on the flowers, and took off after Alexandria. Hikan was the last to follow, but the sound of mechanical whirring soon changed that as his clawed gauntlets formed, spreading over his arms and back where the armor formed twin boosters.

The assassin sped up to get next to Alex. “I really hope your friends are up to this,” he said, glancing at her. “We need every ounce of power and every tool we have to win this.”

Alexandria glanced back at Hikan. “Like I said before, they're all more powerful than they might look,” she said. “It would be better if I could have gotten Patchouli and Yuuka to help, but Patchouli wouldn't necessarily be up to the task, and Yuuka couldn't care less, as long as the Changelings don't ruin her garden.”

Hikan gave a little huff of laughter. “If that be the case, someone should probably warn the Changelings,” he said. “They'll beeline right for the garden.”

Alexandria was silent for several moments. Finally, she said, “nobody say a word about Yuuka's garden to the Changelings. Let them walk into their own doom if they want to.”

Alice gave Alexandria a look. “That's… really evil, Alex. Are you feeling alright?”

“If this is going to be as much trouble as Hikan says it will be, then we're going to need to take out as many Changelings as possible, with as little effort as possible, by any means necessary. That includes allowing them to piss off Yuuka. If we're lucky, it might even spur Yuuka into giving us her assistance,” Alexandria explained.

“'War is for not the righteous, but the survival of many,'” Arela suddenly quoted.

“And only the strong survive,” Hikan added, his tone becoming a little deeper from earlier as his scowl seemed to burrow into his face.

Alexandria looked at Arela. “I agree with that quote. Sometimes, you need to get your hands a little dirty when the odds are ag-URK!” Alexandria was suddenly cut off when a Changeling broke from the swarm and rushed her, slamming into her. The impact caused a gray sphere to fall from the pouch at her waist. Caught by surprise, Alexandria panicked and grabbed the first thing her eyes fell on: the sphere. She then used it to bludgeon the Changeling.

ZZZZZT!

Upon colliding with the Changeling, the sphere released an electric discharge that paralyzed the insect. The Changeling then proceeded to plummet towards the ground, unable to move.

“Wha…?” Alexandria said in confusion, looking at the sphere in her hand.

“Alex!” Hikan called, flying towards her with a worried look. “Are you- where the hell did you get that?” Hikan's voice shifted from worried to slightly aggressive in seconds.

Alexandria looked at Hikan in surprise. “It was embedded in the street next to five others like it,” she said. “They were all sticking up, and I tripped on one, so I pulled them out so nobody else would trip on them. Why do you seem so agitated over this sphere?”

Hikan grit his teeth quietly for a moment before he let his eyes go back to the fast approaching swarm. “Nevermind, I'll tell you later,” he answered, keeping his eyes off her. “Just one question. Are you in excruciating pain right now?”

“Ummm, no?” Alexandria answered, incredibly confused. “What kind of question is that?”

“The kind that could kill you if you don't tell the truth,” the assassin answered darkly. “If you're really not in pain, I'd recommend taking them all out of your pouch. They work better when used with mental commands.”

“Do you really think I would lie about something so serious?” Alexandria asked, starting to sound a little frustrated as she pulled the remaining spheres out and let them float in a ring behind her.

“To be fair, we haven't known you more than an hour or two,” Arela pointed out.

“And I've known too many fighters that would lie about their pain so they wouldn't get pulled off the front line,” Hikan finished, glancing at Alexandria only to quickly look away as anger flashed through his eyes.

“Well, if using these put me in excruciating pain, then the first thing I would do is stop using them. The second thing I would do is fall back to recover. I'm not an idiot,” Alexandria shot back.

“Very well. For now, let us argue after the battle is finished and these cretins are gone,” Arela said, speeding ahead of them all in a flurry of golden feathers, halberd in hand and blinding golden glow encompassing her as she flew.

“Crash course,” Hikan said to Alexandria, flicking his claws out. “Don't let those things touch anyone you care about or they will die.” With that, he rushed forward, boosters blazing as he rushed forward with a roar.

“Good to know,” Alexandria said before turning to Shanghai. “Alright Shanghai, we're going to need as much power as possible. How about you activate that HDD you inherited now?” Shanghai nodded before being engulfed by a ball of light, which dissipated after a few seconds. The Shanghai that was left behind had vivid yellow hair instead of dull blonde, and vivid yellow eyes instead of blue, her eyes also having power symbols in the middles. Her clothes had changed from her old-fashioned blue dress and black dress shoes to much more modern attire: a white zip-up hoodie with yellow cuffs, hem and collar, white shorts with yellow on the leg cuffs, and white sneakers with yellow accenting. She had also become a bit more… mature in the chest area, and the zipper of her hoodie was unzipped a little, revealing a small bit of cleavage.

“Alright, let's squash some bugs,” she said, her voice a bit deeper, sounding more mature. She admittedly also sounded as if she were somewhat more competent than before.

Arela landed in the town square of Ponyville, halberd raised and gleaming, pure gold armor on, making her look bulkier than normal, and adding a good bit to her height. She looked up at the swarm and roared her challenge.

“Come at me, you simpletons! I, Arela Biore, shall give you a swift trip to Triyte's Wastes!” Arela challenged, twirling her halberd threateningly. A number of Changelings landed in front of her, surrounding her fully and hissing and chattering in their tongue. Arela smirked at this. When one lunged at her, she cleaved its head off with one fell swoop, then swung at it, knocking the head into the horde around her. “Come on! I know a wrinkly old Dwarf who could fight better than that!”

With that, the Changelings around her swarmed her, aiming to overwhelm her with numbers. But she simply whirled her halberd, hacking into them all like a saw blade, and leaving a pile of limbs and bodies all around her. Those that remained looked at their dead comrades in shock.

“You… You bitch!” a Changeling in armor yelled, charging her. Arela simply thrusted into his chest as he charged, impaling him. She then raised him up, and flung him across the street.

“Who's next?” she asked, voice echoing from within her armor.

Meanwhile, up in the sky, Alexandria was experimenting with the other five spheres to see what they could do. She had already determined one that caused whatever it hit to rapidly decay, and had decided to avoid using that one. She grabbed the next one and flung it at a scout that tried to rush at her. Upon contact, the scout was frozen solid, the icy insect falling out of the sky and shattering into a million pieces on the street next to Arela. Shanghai was nearby, fighting on her own, zapping Changelings with small lightning bolts. Alexandria's friends were also doing their part in their own ways: Alice was commandeering a small army of dolls that looked much like Shanghai before she transformed; Marisa was frying the bugs with small lasers; Cirno was freezing the insects, causing a pseudo-hailstorm of the 'Lingsicles on the street below; Medicine was producing clouds of poison. The entire group of them was making moderate progress against the Changelings.

Hikan rushed past Alex, his arms out as he dragged a pair of soldiers through the sky. He stopped abruptly, throwing them forward before disappearing and reappearing behind them, swirling through the air as his blade like arm-wings flashed, separating limb from body with no trouble. The man came to a stop and quickly flipped through the air as a scout tried to impale him with its sharp claws. He twisted and raised his leg before slamming it down on the Changeling’s head, a sickening squelch sounding through the air as the body shot towards the ground. Righting himself, the hunter raised his arm quickly, the barrel of his arm cannon stopping another soldier short. The Changeling's eyes widened in fear, looking between the weapon and the suddenly smirking man before its world was filled by an orange light.

Arela was literally tearing the Changelings on the ground to pieces, each movement like a flowing note in a song, each kill a symphony in an opera, and no matter how many times they surrounded her, she always tore them limb from limb, pushing them back. By now a hefty amount of corpses littered the street, Changeling blood running through the cracks in the cobbles like rainwater. Frozen Changelings fell from the skies like hail thanks to Cirno. Then, out of nowhere, a massive Changeling slammed down in front of her.

Arela grinned as she motioned it forwards in challenge, and it roared ferally as it met said challenge, stampeding for her, aiming to make her into angel paste. Arela started to make a number of arcane gestures none of those present had seen before, and all of a sudden, she sped towards the brute in a blur of motion, golden feathers being the only trace of her movement. She impaled the brute with her halberd, then did the same again, and again, and again, making it a pincushion, and then, she disappeared and reappeared behind it, and uttered a phrase full of holy power.

“Angel's Call,” she said simply, and the brute's body exploded with golden light, showering all the other changelings around her with spears of light from that very explosion.

Alexandria threw the next sphere, which collided with a soldier… and made a resounding KABOOM! This caught the attention of everyone nearby for several moments, Changeling or otherwise.

Taking the distraction, Hikan flashed forward, boosters blazing as he held his blade arm wings out. He slashed through countless Changelings without resistance before green light filled the side of his vision. The hunter acted quickly, wrapping himself in his wings and spinning as green fire slammed into him from three directions, the same number of soldiers flying towards him.The cocoon of wings suddenly stopped in midair, the soldiers coming to hover in front of it as the green flames of their magic engulfed the assassin. Moments stretched on before the flames finally stopped, leaving the orange sails blackened and smoking.

“...Did we get it?” One of the Changelings questioned in a skittering voice. A small click sounded out and the other two went wide eyed as the head of the speaker exploded, followed by two more clicks. The other two lost their heads as well and three more bodies fell to meet the ground as three wil-o'-wisps floated back to the unraveling hunter.

Arela looked up at the swarm still in the sky, before zooming up to meet them. Once in front of them, she decided to break out one of the innate skills her teachers had taught her, and that had been passed down from High Angel to High Angel. She spread her wings wide, made a number of complex arcane gestures, then uttered a prayer.

“Oh Lord of Holy Light, let thine disciple grant unto these fiends thine unshattering resolve to squash and make evildoers repent…” she opened her eyes and suddenly a light emerged from her wings, her eyes glowed, and a halo appeared around her head.

“Light's Might!” she roared, and a stream of pure lightning and thunder ripped through the swarm, taking out a good portion of it. It was still intact, but they were more than a little shocked at the attack, even more so were her companions. Arela was panting hard, sweat lining her brow as she glided back down to the earth.

Alexandria shook her head to regain her composure and used this distraction as an opportunity to target one of the stronger Changelings. She grabbed the next sphere and threw it at a soldier, which was engulfed in flames upon the sphere impacting it.

Hikan, seeing Arela's attack, got his own idea and zoomed high into the sky, straight up and through the center of the swarm. The orange sails of his arm wings glowed dangerously before he spun, twin waves of energy tearing through the Changelings before his boosters fired up once more, pushing him through the remaining layers until he burst out of the other side above them.

“This is gonna hurt,” Hikan muttered to himself before twisting to face downwards at the army as the top layer began to rush towards him. “Ace of Clubs, Meteor Falling.” Dorkifu's energy channels burned with amber light as armor formed over his legs, boots, and the edges of his back wings. Cannons took shape over his wings and wrists as the boosters suddenly jerked up, pointing their own guns at the coming hoard. He held his hands out to either side, hollowed barrels having formed in his palms and the bottom of his now taloned feet, the energy of Dorkifu glowing white before a loud boom shook the sky. White lasers rained down from the sky as every one of his weapons fired off at once, the burning energy slamming into the Changeling forces.

This kept up for several minutes before the firing ceased, the young man slumping forward and beginning to fall as his armor retracted. He was nearing unconsciousness when something lit up in turquoise swallowed him.

A quartet of soldiers rushed Alexandria at once, so she grabbed the last sphere and threw it at one of the middle ones. Upon impact, all four of the Changelings were flung away by a whirlwind. “Good to know everything these can do,” Alexandria commented to herself. “These might actually come in handy.”

Arela panted a bit, slowly getting her breathing under control. When she did, she stood back up and readied herself to fight more. A Changeling rushed at her from behind, but she could hear its approach and simply slammed the butt of her halberd into its gut, then spun around and knocked it aside. More came at her from the sides, shooting magic beams at her, but they just glanced off of her armor.

“W-What are you?!” one of them cried, taking a step back. She appeared in front of the Changeling, impaling it with her halberd.

“Your end,” she said simply as she flung them into the other, then used her wings to propel herself forward and then slam her halberd through both of their guts, killing the one beneath the one she flung.

The battle raged, the Changelings doing everything they could to get to the citizens of Ponyville, only to be stopped by the heroes. Suddenly, the insectoids fell back, ceasing their assault as they all regrouped… which was the last thing they should have done. At the other end of Ponyville, a light sparked at the top of Twilight's castle, only barely noticeable… before a huge beam of turquoise magic ripped through the air and slammed into the swarm. Bodies that weren't incinerated dropped to the ground as burning husks, the survivors scrambling to get as far from the blast as possible. After a second or two more, the beam died away, leaving the Changeling forces far more than crippled.

Now that the Changelings no longer posed a threat, Alexandria returned the spheres to the pouch, and Shanghai reverted back to her usual form, taking her place on Alexandria's shoulder again. Arela was finishing off the few remaining Changelings, and when she had finished, she looked around for Hikan.

“My love? Where are you?” she asked, searching for her Devoted.

“I think I saw him fall into a turquoise ring just before that big beam attack happened,” Alice said.

“That beam…” Marisa said, shaking her head. “It put my own Master Spark to shame.”

“Turquoise ring?” Arela wondered, before she remembered how her and Hikan had gotten here and growled. She spread her wings and shot towards the castle, set on keeping Starlight from trying anything funny with her Devoted. Her armor disappeared as she flew to the castle.

Alexandria decided to follow so she could make sure Hikan was okay. She'd need to head over and find Twilight so she could report that the invasion had been thwarted anyway. The other girls with her followed.

That's when another portal opened up and Arela found herself suddenly flying into Hikan. The assassin tumbled to the ground backwards, letting out an “Oomph!” as the air rushed from his lungs. “Ooooo… did you really miss me that much?” He questioned through a pained voice. Alexandria and the others came through the portal as well, finally making a landing onto solid ground.

“What kind of Angel would I be if I didn't?” Arela said, nuzzling him. “That fala didn't try anything, did she?” Alexandria winced slightly at the mention of the derogatory term.

“'Course not,” the hunter answered, wrapping his arms around Arela before grunting in pain. “Okay, my everything still hurts….”

“Guess it's a good thing I managed that spell then,” Starlight said, appearing in a flash of light, Cataclysm on her shoulder and the Staff of Secrets in her hand. “Not bad for a fala, huh?”

“It's fala, there is a lilt to it, a harmony. Though I suppose I can't expect a younger race to understand my people's language,” Arela shot back before nuzzling Hikan more.

Starlight let out a huff. “Whatever,” she muttered… she suddenly let out a tired breath and deflated onto her backside. “Got… more than… you did…,” she panted, the little Nil Dragon coming over her shoulder to sit in her lap, looking up at her worriedly.

“Are you okay?” Alexandria asked her.

Starlight looked up at Alex and gave a weak smile that didn't last long. “Just… tired,” she answered breathily. “Jumping Hikan here from there, that blast, and then jumping the rest of you here before teleporting… that's more magic than I think I've ever done at one time….”

“Well, you make sure to rest up then,” Marisa said. “And maybe try talking a bit less, save your energy,” she added.

“That would certainly bring me peace,” Arela remarked.

Starlight glared at the angel for a moment before letting out a breath and slumping a bit, closing her eyes. As much as she didn't want to, she was going to have to let Arela win this one.

“I'm going to go and tell Princess Twilight that we've thwarted the Changeling invasion,” Alexandria said.

“Sounds like a plan,” Hikan grunted, sitting up slowly and with more than a few grimaces. “I think it's time for a well deserved na-” The castle rumbled and shook as a boom sounded through Ponyville, cutting the man off.

Alexandria stopped short in the doorway of the room. “That could not have been a good noise,” she commented after a moment, turning back around and heading back towards the others.

“And just when we thought it was over…,” Hikan muttered, getting to his feet. Arela got off of him, summoning her halberd once more.

“We can handle it, I'm sure,” Arela said confidently.

“Let's hope so,” Starlight replied, getting to her hooves and levitating Cataclysm off of her. Her armor and sword appeared in a flurry of portals before the small Nil Dragon jumped back up onto her shoulder.

Alexandria walked over to the portal that was still open from when they all entered. “Convenient that you forgot to close this, huh?” she said before jumping through the portal to hover in midair on the other side. Alexandria's four friends did the same. Arela followed them all outside as well, armor returning to her form. Hikan and Starlight were last behind. And what they saw made them stop.

A huge brute walked down the road of Ponyville, dragging a soldier by its head as the smaller Changeling thrashed, kicked and clawed to get away. On the other side of the brute walked another soldier, but he was different. He was taller, and his horn was longer and more intricate, black robes with green accents were covering his armor.

“Juno,” Hikan's sudden growl was feral and full of anger, surprising at least Starlight.

“Why's that one bug struggling like that?” Marisa asked. “It doesn't look very happy.”

“Insubordination, most likely. Or they did not meet expectations,” Arela suggested.

“Go home, Juno,” Hikan called out, swooping down to the ground a small ways in front of the Changelings. “Your forces are in tatters and you can't beat all of us with just yourself, a brute, and an unwilling soldier.”

The Changelings came to a halt, staring at the assassin, the brute shaking the soldier roughly, drawing out a pained feminine cry from the smaller insectoid. “...I finally get to meet you in the flesh and you insult me?” The robed Changeling, Juno, questioned in a multi-toned and regal voice.

“There's eight of us, and technically two of you,” Alice pointed out as the rest of the group caught up with Hikan. “That soldier probably won't fight, and a few of us are capable of killing a brute fairly easily without assistance. If I were you, I'd make the smart choice and retreat.”

“I don't know, I rather enjoyed meting out punishment to these sinners,” Arela mused.

Juno looked to each of them… and smirked. “You think I would defile my hands on the likes of you?” He questioned, stepping forward to stand in front of the other two, the soldier's eyes following him with fear. “In all reality… you'll only be facing one of us.”

Hikan's eyes narrowed, a chill running over his spine at the breeder's tone. “What's that supposed to mean…?” He questioned, almost nervous about the answer.

Juno chuckled before looking up at the hunter once more. “You've been in the mind of one of our scouts,” he purred, still wearing his smile. “You should know that breeders are the second most powerful class in the Changeling race… but do you know how a breeder is created?”

As the hunter and Starlight shared a look of confusion, Juno continued. “A breeder is a fusion of two Changelings. The process is quite bloody and painful… especially for the submissive one. Only queens and other breeders can perform the ceremony, but a queen usually keeps her breeders at bay by ripping the knowledge from their minds… but I'm the mistake. Breeders are usually fused from two of the same class, but I am two. Soldier and drone, fighter and mage. I stole the information back, and now you shall suffer that knowledge!” With that, the robed Changeling spun around and threw his arms into the air, a ring of green fire surrounding the three Changelings.

Shanghai sensed that something really bad was happening, and decided to lunge for the robed Changeling to try and stop him. However, her lunge was stopped by a barrier, and she recoiled back, getting flung at Alexandria. Alexandria's eyes widened, and she put her hands up, catching Shanghai just before the doll slammed into her face. “Shanghai, are you okay?”

“Yeah,” Shanghai answered, taking flight. “Thank you for catching me Alexandria.” Shanghai then retook her position on Alexandria's shoulder, though she still eyed the Changelings worriedly.

“A barrier…” Arela noted, eyeing it carefully. Her eyes seemed to shimmer as she looked it over, before she frowned and looked to her Devoted. “Maybe your Spirit Weapon could break through?”

Hikan cast a glance at her before shrugging. “Worth a shot,” he replied before he swung his hand out, focusing on his inner power. He felt it surge forward and through his arm and out of his hand… forming a hot pink scythe. “...What the actual hell?”

“Hikan!” Starlight's shout rocked the hunter back to attention.

“Right!” He shouted before rocketing forward and slamming the scythe into the barrier. The magical shield and weapon sparked against one another, the assassin gritting his teeth before the buildup of force exploded, knocking Hikan back. The man landed with a hard thud before he slid the rest of the way to stop at the group's feet, his scythe fading away. “....Owwww….”

Alexandria and her friends decided that the display they just witnessed was enough to tell them not to mess with the barrier. None of them made any move to attack. Not even Cirno. Arela rushed over to Hikan, making sure he was alright.

“My love, are you okay?” she asked worriedly.

“...No…” Hikan admitted, his tongue coming between his lips where it met the blood from the gash found there. “...That hurt. A lot… and I've been punched by a giant suit of mech armor…”

“Here, let me heal you, my love. Everything will be alright,” she said, bringing her hands to his chest and uttering a few words. “Healing Light.” A golden glow covered his form, and he was back in tip-top shape.

Hikan gave a bit of a groan as he sat up. “Thanks, Arie,” he said, looking up at her… before a scream drew the group's attention back to the swirling circle of flame.

“Master, plea-”

“Shut up, filth!” Juno shouted, a crunching thud and second cry sounding out as he kicked the groveling changeling back towards the brute that stood behind it.

The soldier sniffled as it looked up at Juno, holding a hand to their stomach where green ichor started to seep through the new cracks in her chitin. “Please… I don't want to die….”

“Ohhh,” Juno said giving her a sympathetic look that matched his tone as he stepped up to her and crouched down in front of her and put a finger under her chin. “You're not going to die… just suffer.” The Changeling's eyes went wide as green whips of energy suddenly wrapped around her and started pulling her towards the waiting brute.

The soldier screamed, cried and thrashed as she was dragged backwards and forced into contact with the much larger Changeling's chest. Upon contact, more green flames leapt forth from the areas of contact, the soldier screaming out in pain as the brute gave a roar into the sky. The soldier continued to scream, plead, and struggle until her voice was silenced as her head was consumed by the flames, her reaching hand being the last thing to disappear. The brute began to grow in size and change until the large shoulder armor was spiked, its claws much bigger and the armor on its torso, arms, legs, and head growing harder and giving a metallic sheen. The last thing to change was its horn, the appendage growing larger to the point that it almost looked like an enormous blade.

Alexandria pulled the paralyzing sphere out of her pouch, preparing for battle with the huge breeder, all the comrades she'd gathered also getting into battle stances. Shanghai looked at Alexandria. “Don't transform yet,” Alexandria told her. “I don't want you tiring yourself too soon.” Shanghai just nodded at this, looking back to the massive insectoid.

“Let us not harm the poor creature too much, we may be able to convert them to our side,” Arela told the others, readying her halberd and getting in her own stance, wings spread.

“For once we're in agreement,” Starlight muttered as she placed a blunting spell on her sword. She stared for a moment before her eyes went wide. “Hikan, can you-”

“Yes,” Hikan interrupted, a hard, analytical look in his eyes as he watched the flames slowly die down. “But I'm going to need it to stand still and we can not do any worse damage than blunt or stunning. Which means,” he took out his tristaff, flicking it expertly until it clicked into staff form and tossed it to Arela. “It's best if we stay away from sharp, pointy things.” Arela gave it a once over when she caught it before nodding, dispersing her halberd.

Marisa blinked. “So, what'll we do?” she asked Hikan. “Punch or kick or something? Our Danmaku attacks can't really be made blunt.”

“Try to subdue them, and hold back your power,” Arela suggested as she circled the breeder slowly.

“Heh, loser,” Medicine taunted Marisa. “I don't know what you're going to do, but I can just use paralyzing poison.” Marisa just glared at the doll.

“Just keep it still long enough for me to get in deep,” Hikan said, before he took a deep breath. “Ace of Hearts, Master of Things.” Dorkifu once again whirred to life, armor forming over his torso, forearms, and head. On his shoulders and wrists grew mounds of armor, the will-o'-wisps coming out of the ends part way as an orange visor formed over his eyes before the energy channels of his armor began to brighten from orange to white.

Arela nodded, before rushing over to the breeder and slamming the tristaff into the back of it's head. When it made to swat at her, she propelled herself back and away from it with her wings.

Alexandria then flung the sphere at it, and the ensuing zap of electricity stopped it in place for several moments.

As it broke free from the paralysis, Medicine rushed up to it and shot a large cloud of poison towards the breeder's head.

The breeder roared and large wings shot from its back, launching it into the air and blowing away Medicine's cloud before its horn glowed in green flame, igniting its claws before sweeping out two waves of fiery magic at the group. It turned to charge Arela only to stop and lift a claw to guard against the concussive magic blast Starlight shot at it.

Arela rushed into the fray once more, landing strike after strike with the tristaff, leaving a number of bruises on the chitin.

Alexandria and her group dodged the two flaming waves, finding it beyond simple compared to what they were used to. After that, Alexandria took the whirlwind sphere out of her pouch and threw it, hoping to ground the enemy. However, the breeder was beginning to wisen up, creating a small barrier of magic which reflected the sphere back at Alexandria, who then caught it, nothing happening. The barrier disappeared after it had reflected the sphere away. Alexandria stopped to think of a new tactic she could use in order to hit the breeder.

Marisa hadn't been attacking up to this point, unsure of what to do. She glanced at Cirno… and then came to a realization. She went over to Cirno. “Hey, Cirno,” she said, grabbing the girl's attention. “I have an idea. I'm going to shoot bullets at you, and then I want you to freeze them, okay?”

Cirno nodded with a smile. “Okay, that's easy,” she answered.

Marisa then backed up and shot a few star-shaped objects at Cirno, who then proceeded to freeze them solid. “Now hit those at the bug,” Marisa said.

“Here, let me,” Alice said, coming over. She had several dolls that she was commandeering hit the frozen stars, launching them at the insectoid. They slammed into the breeder, shattering from the force of impact.

“Hah!” Marisa laughed. “Alright, let's keep it up,” she said, receiving nods from the other two.

The breeder gave a roar, lifting a claw and catching Starlight's now blunt sword as she tried to get in close alongside Arela. The unicorn's eyes widened as the enormous Changeling lifted her up by the sword. “Oh, shi-” Starlight's exclamation was cut off as the monster used her as a battering ram and threw her into Arela before turning its furious gaze onto the group that had shot it.

Demonstrating the speed that only comes from a brute breeder, the beast lunged forward far faster than anticipated. Before it could reach them, a blur shot in from their side and Hikan leaped into the air, twisting until he brought his leg down in a flying axe kick, slamming it into the ground. The hunter hit the ground just as the massive body rebounded off the earth, spinning and delivering a powerful roundhouse that sent the breeder skidding across the ground. It came to a stop several yards away before it started getting back to its feet, a feral hiss issuing from its maw.

As the beast finished standing up, Alexandria had a thought. She looked at Shanghai. “I'd like you to go around behind the Changeling,” Alexandria said. “I'm going to throw something to you, and I want you to hit it into the Changeling's back, okay?” Shanghai nodded, flying around the huge breeder, unnoticed due to her tiny size in comparison to the hulking insectoid. Alexandria then gripped the paralyzing sphere, before lobbing it at a high angle. The sphere sailed through the air, arcing over the Changeling's head, all the way to the waiting doll, who then rammed the sphere with her shoulder, sending it into the target's back, causing a shock of electricity that held it in place.

Arela quickly pushed Starlight off of her, before using her wings to propel herself forward towards the breeder, smacking it in the head so hard that it tumbled over.

The Changeling started to push itself back to its feet only to be slammed back into the ground, the earth shaking as Hikan used the breeder as a springboard. “Starlight, Arela, keep it pinned!” The assassin shouted as he sailed into the air, twisting as he aimed his wrist at the beast's back. The sound of a zipline ripped through the air as tendrils shot from the will-o'-wisp mounted on his arm, wrapping around the neck, waist, and shoulders of the Changeling before yanking him back down to slam into its back once more, leveling it and cracking the terrain underneath it.

“Roger!” Starlight answered, rushing to one of its sides and letting her magic start to wrap around its arm, torso, and leg to hold that side in place.

Arela nodded, uttering a prayer in a foreign language, before shouting, “Astral Bind!” and a number of golden ropes wrapped around the breeder's other side.

The breeder roared and started to try and pull out of the restrictions, Hikan's teeth grinding together as more tendrils came out of the other will-o'-wisps before the twelve shot forward and stabbed into the Changeling's back, tossing out green blood that splattered the ground and anyone close by. The Changeling roared out in pain, the dual tone of its voice splitting as the more feminine part screamed out.

The beast continued to thrash and fight as its body started to disintegrate, lifeblood pooling out beneath it. Hikan just stood his ground as best he could as the wisps' tendrils continued to writhe. Seconds rolled by like an eternity before, with a surprised shout and the sound of cracking chitin, Hikan fell, disappearing from view. The beast let out one more scream of pain, the higher pitch having died off long before, before it gave one last throw and laid still.

“My love!” Arela cried, spell breaking as she searched for her Devoted. “My love, where are you?”

Cirno went up to the motionless body and slammed her shoulder against it. The degraded chitin gave way to the force of Cirno's shoulder, and she fell inside of the beast as the carcass crumbled, burying her.

“Cirno!” Marisa shouted, running over to the crumbled carcass. As she made it over, part of the rubble started shaking, before Cirno's head popped up out of it, covered in Changeling bits and green insect blood.

“Grooooooss…” Cirno said, shaking the bits off.

“I have to agree,” a muffled voice replied before a concussive blast a little ways behind Cirno uncovered Hikan covered in the same squishy insect bits as he supported the unconscious soldier with his other arm and lap. Arela tackled him in a hug when she saw him, nuzzling him.

“Don't scare me like that! You had me worried!” Arela said.

Hikan gave a pained hiss before he gave a little chuckle and hugged her with his free arm. “Sorry, Arie,” he answered with short breath. “The bastard came apart a lot easier than I anticipated.”

Marisa helped Cirno out of the remains. Cirno's dress was soaked with insect blood and her whole body was covered in the little insect bits. “I'm going to make you wash when we get home,” Marisa said.

“You don't have to tell me twice,” Cirno said. “This is just nasty.”

“Oh…” Arela looked at her wings, now covered in insect blood, while her armor was knee deep in the crumbling corpse. “I believe I shall require bathing as well… My wings will need special attention, too.”

Hikan chuckled again before he lifted his hand and spread and closed his fingers, watching the green slime string out between them like webbing. “Yeah, I think we're all going to need to clean up after this one,” he muttered before an almost soundless yelp drew his attention back to the Changeling he was supporting. “Help me get her out of here.”

“I'd rather not get my clothes or my dolls dirty with that stuff,” Alice said.

Alexandria looked at Alice and sighed. She then went to give Hikan a hand. The assassin lifted the Changeling gently out of the mess, holding her out to the Yokai. Alexandria attempted to lift the soldier, with little success. “Alice, Medicine, do you think you could-”

“Sorry.”

“Not happening.”

Alexandria closed her eyes and sighed again. She braced herself to try again… But then the soldier was suddenly levitated up into the air.

“I apologize for my tardiness,” came a woman's voice from nearby.

Everyone turned to look. The woman had long, dark purple hair and eyes that were a vivid purple colour. She was wearing a pale purple gown and cap, and she had red and blue tags tied like bows in her hair.

“Patchouli!” Alice said in surprise.

“'Tardiness' is an understatement,” Marisa said, annoyed. “All the fighting's done already.”

“But you still managed to attain victory, even without my aid, yes?” Patchouli answered, gently lowering the unconscious Changeling to the ground.

“Um, guys?” Hikan's eyes turned as he tried to swipe off the goo from his shirt, his eyes narrowing at Starlight's worried tone. They only widened back when he saw Starlight in Juno's hold, one arm around her neck and torso to hold her in place as he held two claws in front of her eyes, poised to sink into the soft flesh.

“Excuse me,” an icy cold voice that sent a chill down everyone's spine - including Juno's - said from just behind Juno. “But I would suggest that you keep a tighter leash on your beasts next time…” Behind Juno was a woman with shoulder-length green hair and red eyes. She was wearing a white blouse under a red plaid vest, as well as a red plaid skirt… And she was also holding a very familiar pale purple parasol. “They trampled my sunflowers. They're all dead now. I'm feeling generous right now, however, so instead of killing you, I'll simply show you the way out of town… Painfully.” As she said that final word, Yuuka grabbed Juno's arm, very forcefully, causing him to drop Starlight. Patchouli's magic caught Starlight before she hit the ground, and Starlight was safely deposited next to the others. Yuuka then closed her parasol, and let go of the breeder's arm. She then took the handle of her parasol in both hands and reared it back like a bat. “Don't ever show your face around here again, or I will kill you,” she growled before swinging her parasol with all her might. There was a crunch as it connected with the Changeling, and he was sent flying towards the distance, out of sight. “Hmph,” Yuuka said, opening her parasol again and resting it over her shoulder before she turned and walked away.

Hikan stared and blinked at the retreating figure, eyes wide. “Alex… who was that…?”

“I assume that was the Yuuka the others warned us of, my love,” Arela told him.

“Yeah, that was Yuuka alright,” Alexandria said.

“You got front-row seats to a display of her wrath,” Marisa chimed in. “And lucky for you, you weren't on the receiving end.” Marisa then looked off in the direction Juno had disappeared in. “I actually feel kinda sorry for the poor sap,” she said.

“I am honestly in awe of her right now. She reminds me of the Northern Lion,” Arela said, watching as Yuuka left.

Starlight stared after her for a moment before a bright flash had her appear next to the green haired Yokai. “Hey…” she said.

“Yes…?” Yuuka asked dismissively, stopping to look at Starlight from the corner of her eye.

“Thank you,” the unicorn said. “Really.”

“I didn't do it for you,” Yuuka said looking away and continuing to walk. “That fool allowed his subordinates to ruin my flowers. You had nothing to do with it, so I simply removed you from the cross fire.”

Starlight was a little off-put by the Yokai's coldness, but all the same turned to watch her as she left. “Whether you meant it or not, you did save me,” she said before she turned around and started back towards the others.

“Yuuka doesn't care about your life,” Marisa said to Starlight as she came back. “If you went and damaged one of her flowers right now, she wouldn't hesitate to kill you on the spot.”

“That sounds…lonely,” Arela noted. “All by herself with nothing but flowers… It reminds me of my lord.”

“Yuuka is an odd individual,” Patchouli said. “Alone with nothing more than flowers is just how she likes things.” Arela frowned, but slowly nodded.

Starlight was quiet for a moment before she opened her mouth only to be interrupted by a groan. Hikan looked towards the Changeling on the ground, his hands going to his pockets. “...What are we going to do with her?” He asked.

“I assume she is not an enemy?” Patchouli asked.

Hikan was quiet for a moment, eyes flashing through hundreds of emotions. Frowning, Starlight stepped next to him and put a hand on his arm. “...What did you see?” She asked softly, looking at him with worried eyes.

Hikan took in a deep breath and looked up at her. “...Everything,” he answered quietly before going over and scooping the Changeling up. “We should get her some medical attention and somewhere soft to rest while we figure something out….”

“I can offer a place to rest,” Patchouli said.

“I could bring some stuff over to Patchouli's to make a soft surface,” Alice added. There was silence for a few moments.

“Anyone here a doctor?” Marisa asked. She received various forms of 'no' from Alexandria and the rest of her friends. Marisa then looked at Hikan, Starlight and Arela. “How about you? Any of you know anything about medical practice?”

“I do. All High Angels are required to study medicinal practices from a young age, and I was one of the top students in my class,” Arela said.

“Then I guess we have a plan,” the hunter said, wincing as the Changeling pressed into his sore arm. “Lead on, Miss Patchouli.”

“Yes, of course,” Patchouli said, turning and leading the way to her library. Alexandria followed as well. Alice went off towards the Carousel Boutique, Medicine left to go and do her own thing, and Marisa and Cirno left to wash up.

As the group approached Patchouli's home, Starlight and Hikan couldn't help but give confused looks. “...Didn't Tirek… destroy the Golden Oaks…?” Starlight questioned. “I distinctly remember Twilight tearing up over that once…”

“I am unaware of how the original one was destroyed, however I had the residents here aid me in drawing blueprints for it, and then with some enlisted help, I had it rebuilt,” Patchouli answered. “It is now my home, however it still functions as a library. I openly admit that I feel right at home surrounded by books.”

“Sounds like Grimly. He practically lives in Erevale's Archives,” Arela noted.

“An archive…” Patchouli said. “I would be interested in reading the books there one day.” Patchouli then opened the door and let the four in.

“Well, I'm certain my lord wouldn't mind showing you the Archives at some point. There are many tomes from Lleiya's old days that I'm sure would interest you. The fala here can attest to that,” Arela pointed out, jerking a thumb at Starlight, Alexandria wincing at the word again.

“I'm not even going to dignify that with a response,” Starlight said, turning her nose away from the angel.

Hikan sighed and rolled his eyes before he stepped up beside Patchouli. “This could take a while,” he muttered. “Where do you want me to lay her?”

“We will first need to wait for the doll maker to bring the cushioning,” Patchouli said. “However, if you are alright with placing her on a solid, wooden surface, then any of the library tables will do.”

Hikan nodded and went over to the tables and laid her down gently… before promptly falling out backwards. Arela rushed over to him, catching him before he fell to the floor.

“My love? My love!” Arela cried. When he didn't respond, she placed her ear to his chest, and breathed a sigh of relief when she heard his heartbeat. “Oh thank the Lightbringer…” She said as she held him close.

“Looks like he's exhausted,” Alexandria said. “He'll need somewhere to rest as well from the looks of things.”

“He could be out for a while,” Starlight warned, coming over to stand nearby. “The last time he used Hearts, he needed three hours of rest before he was ready to go again.”

“If you're talking about that Ace of Hearts he used earlier,” Alexandria responded, “then he'll probably need quite a bit more than three hours of rest, since he also used an Ace of Clubs before that.”

“Thank goodness he's alright,” Arela said, brushing a few strands of hair from his face.

“Hmmm…” Patchouli said. “Marisa is currently housing Cirno, and the doll maker is living at the Carousel Boutique, so I will allow him to rest here as well.”

Starlight shifted her hoof for a moment before speaking up. “I wouldn't want to crowd you,” she said to Patchouli. “I've still got my room in Twilight's castle so I should probably get going.”

“I see,” Patchouli said. “Farewell then.”

“See you,” Alexandria said as her and Shanghai both waved to Starlight.

Starlight gave a small smile and wave before her eyes fell on Arela and Hikan, her smile fading. “...Arela….” Arela raised her head.

“What?” she asked evenly.

Starlight gave an annoyed look before she took a small breath, her look of worry returning. “Take care of him,” she said before leaving the library.

“Could you not have given her a farewell?” Patchouli asked Arela after several moments. Arela said nothing for a moment as she watched Hikan sleep.

“...I suppose I could have tried to be more civil,” Arela conceded.

The library doors then opened again as Alice came in carrying an arm full of clothing. “I've got the bedding,” she called out. Patchouli simply shook her head with a frown.

“Here, let me help you,” Alexandria said. Patchouli lifted the soldier magically as Alexandria and Alice spread the clothing over the tabletop. Once it was in place, the Changeling was lowered back down to rest on the cushioning.

“There we go,” Alice said. “I'll be going now, since it's getting late out. See you tomorrow.”

“Bye Alice,” Alexandria said. After Alice left, Alexandria was silent for a few moments. “I know that I'm already staying somewhere, but…” she looked over at Hikan for a few seconds before looking to Patchouli. “I'd like to stay here and make sure Hikan's okay, if that's alright with you Patchouli.”

“Yes, that's fine,” Patchouli said. “I rarely use my bed, so as long as you don't make too much of a commotion, I have no issue with you staying here.”

“Thanks Patchouli,” Alexandria said. She then turned to Arela. “C'mon Arela, let's get Hikan to Patchouli's bed.”

Arela slowly nodded, picking Hikan's torso up. Alexandria grabbed Hikan's legs and the two brought him to Patchouli's bed, setting him in it. Alexandria looked at Hikan for a few moments. “I sure hope he's alright,” she said. “He appears to have pushed himself rather hard today.”

Arela nodded. “My love is known for that,” she said, moving a few strands of hair away from his face. She smiled as she did this.

“I see,” Alexandria said in response, giving a small smile. She then went over to a chair that was nearby and sat in it. “Anyway, I'm going to get some sleep. I'm sure Hikan will be feeling better in the morning.” She then yawned and stretched as Shanghai floated down from her shoulder and lied down in her lap. Alexandria then sat back in the chair and closed her eyes, leaning her head forward a bit. “Goodnight,” she said.

“Good night,” Arela replied. After a few minutes, Arela decided to take a bath, and went looking for it. When she did and had finished cleaning herself, she climbed into bed with Hikan and cuddled up next to him, kissing his cheek as her wings wrapped around him.

Chapter 9- Kill the Conflict

Chapter 9-

Kill the Conflict

The next morning, the commotion of tables being turned over and the lower floor getting turned into a mad house woke Hikan from his exhaustion induced slumber. With a groan of pain, he moved his hand up to rub his face, several cracks sounding out as his joints popped one after another.

Alexandria finally woke up, having been more exhausted yesterday than she'd thought. She suddenly jumped up from the chair she had been sleeping in when she heard the crashing from downstairs, Shanghai being dumped off her lap. Shanghai's eyes snapped open, and she began floating before hitting the floor, chasing after Alexandria who had rushed downstairs to see what was going on.

Arela was mumbling in her sleep, still cuddling Hikan, as well as nuzzling him, a testament to her habit of being a heavy sleeper. Hikan blinked his eyes a few times before they shot open at another loud crash. “Arela, wake up!” He said urgently, using his already active arm to shake her shoulder gently.

“Mmhm… Wha?” Arela mumbled, slowly waking up until another loud crash made her eyes pop open. She got up from the bed at this, looking around. “Are we under attack again?” She asked, ready to summon her halberd and armor once more.

“No,” Hikan answered, wincing as he got up quickly. “But that Changeling we rescued last night isn't happy.” Arela noticed his wincing.

“Are you alright, my love?” she asked worriedly.

“Still sore,” he answered simply before rushing towards the stairs. “C'mon, she's going to need someone to calm her down.” Arela nodded, following after him.

Downstairs was havoc. Books and furniture had been thrown around like they had been sucked into a hurricane and, at the center of it all, the female soldier had stuffed herself into a corner. Her eyes stared widely at each of them, her wings spread wide and mouth open to show off her fangs as she tried to make herself look like far more of a threat.

Alexandria was standing near Patchouli, and she sighed in relief. Shanghai was grabbing onto Patchouli's shoulder, though she let go after a moment and took her usual place on Alexandria's shoulder again. Patchouli looked over the devastation that was the first floor, a large frown on her face. “I will have to spend the better part of the morning cleaning this…” she muttered to herself, shaking her head.

“I see our guest has made a mess in her fear-induced state,” Arela noted, looking around. “And I'm going to assume trying to calm her down the normal way isn't working, either.”

Hikan stared at the Changeling as her eyes went from one speaker to the other, a feral hiss slowly escaping her lips. “Four-seven-eight-two,” he said, the Changeling's eyes turning immediately to him in some form of recognition. “That's enough. No one here is going to hurt you.”

The Changeling stared at him for a moment before she blinked and her wings slowly sank a little. “...Was… Is that me…?” She asked, her voice not having the same dual tone as other Changelings.

“...It was, once,” Hikan answered lowly as he started to walk towards her slowly. “Now… Four-seven-eight-two is a memory.” She continued to let her wings fall and lose her aggressive stance until the hunter stood in front of her. Gently, he lifted a hand and brought it around her shoulders before he led her to an overturned chair, using a single hand to turn it back over before sitting her down in it. Arela smiled at this, seeing her Devoted acting so kindly to one he did not know. It warmed her heart.

Hikan backed up a bit before he picked up another chair and sat in it. He looked quietly at the Changeling before he spoke. “What do you remember?” He asked.

The soldier squirmed a little, letting her eyes drift away from his before answering. “...Pain… and darkness,” she started before shaking her head. “No… everything was blurry. I was fighting… but I wasn't in control. Th-then-” Her eyes widened and she wrapped her arms around herself, shaking as some part of her memories started to flood back all at once. “Oh, sweet mother, it hurt! It hurt so much!” Patchouli tensed slightly at the outburst, but didn't do anything, instead waiting to see if the Changeling would make a move first.

Arela frowned at this, walking over and wrapping a wing around the Changeling, her golden wings nearly enveloping her. “Hush, tylin, hush. All is well now, worry not.”

The soldier tensed up a bit at the angel's touch, her eyes wide as a few built up tears rolled down her cheeks. Suddenly, the Changeling surged forward, wrapping her arms around the angel as she cried unbridled into Arela's shoulder. Arela smiled warmly as she wrapped both wings around the Changeling, letting her cry into her chest.

“Calm, tylin, all is well,” Arela assured, rocking her back and forth. The Changeling continued to cry for several moments before she finally took a deep breath and stopped.

“...I can't go back…,” she said through a choked voice. “I can feel it… I'm not connected to the colony anymore… My queen has surely proclaimed me dead….” Arela frowned, rubbing the poor girl's back as she looked to Hikan.

Hikan's eyes seemed unchanged, the coldness of his assassin's training showing through. “...Where will you go?” he asked, his tone sharing no form of comfort with the soldier.

The Changeling sniffed as she shook her head, eyes looking at the ground. “I… I don't know,” she answered shakily. “Without the colony… no Changeling can survive alone in the wilderness… not even brutes….”

“...” Arela paused for a moment, thinking. “What if she were to stay with us, my love?”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he straightened up in his chair, crossing his arms and giving a stern look. “Not possible,” he answered harshly, drawing a scared look from the Changeling only for him to give a soft look. “Not without a name, that is.” Arela smiled at him.

“I have an idea, if you would indulge me, my love,” Arela began.

The Changeling looked up at the angel, tilting her head in confusion before Hikan gave a smile and nodded. “Of course, go ahead.”

“Why don't we call her… Allis?” Arela suggested. “It was the name of a great Cleric before I was even born.”

The Changeling scrunched up her nose a bit, her ear flicking back for a moment, Hikan giving a little chuckle at the soldier's reaction. “I'm not sure she likes that one, Arie,” he said with humor in his voice. Arela frowned.

“Shell,” Shanghai said. “She's got a really hard shell, right?” Alexandria couldn't help but grin at Shanghai's innocent, simple logic.

The Changeling looked up and blinked at the little doll before giving a soft little smile. “I really like th-” A bang cut her off as Hikan left and his chair tumbled to the ground. He threw the door open and pushed past a wide eyed Starlight, her knuckles raised to knock as she held a white cardboard box.

Alexandria was stunned, unable to say anything. “It appears that something Shanghai said has upset him,” Patchouli commented. “Although I am unsure as to what.”

Shanghai looked at Patchouli with an apologetic expression. “Um… I'm sorry,” she said.

“No no, it's not your fault Shanghai,” Alexandria spoke up, finding her voice. “You didn't do anything wrong, I'm sure. Maybe we should leave him be for a few moments. We can ask him about it once we've given him a chance to calm down.” She then gave Starlight a quizzical look. “What's in the box?”

“I, um,” Starlight started, still blinking a bit before she stepped into the library. “I brought pastries from Sugarcube Corner…. What happened?”

Alexandria looked behind her at the mess. She then turned back to Starlight. “The Changeling kind of freaked out when she woke up,” she explained. “We got the situation under control, and were trying to decide on a name to give her. Hikan stormed out after Shanghai suggested 'Shell', but we're not sure why yet.”

Starlight's confused expression dropped and she looked towards the floor with a sad frown. “Oh…” she said quietly, stepping forward and using her magic to pick up a table and setting the box down onto it.

Arela released the Changeling, making for the door. “I'm going to see if he's alright,” she said firmly.

“Arela, wait,” Starlight said softly, moving to meet her at the door before she could leave. “He… he really needs some time right now… just this once… trust me?” Arela paused for a long moment, one foot forward.

“I would suggest taking that advice,” Patchouli said, beginning to stand the other tables and chairs back into their initial positions. “In my opinion, he should have some time alone to relax and calm down.”

“In addition to that,” Alexandria said, turning to Arela, “you'll probably want to hear the explanation as to why he's so upset, and I feel like Hikan won't want to talk about it, even with you.” Alexandria then turned to Starlight. “You obviously seem to know the reason why Hikan is so upset. Maybe you could explain it to us.”

Arela remained quiet, before, after a long while, she sighed and walked over, sitting back down with crossed arms.

Starlight was silent for a few moments. Before she could begin explaining though, the door to the library was opened. “So how's th-” Marisa said before cutting off when she saw the scene in front of her, feeling the seriousness of the atmosphere. “I'll, uh, just stand over here quietly,” she said, coming inside and closing the door, standing to the side of the entrance as Cirno followed her.

“Wh-” Cirno began to ask Marisa, before Marisa cut her off with a sharp 'sh!'.

Starlight looked to the pair then to the others scattered about the room. She gave a heavy sigh and took a seat, her eyes on her knees where her hands clutched at her pants. “Hikan's past is not an easy one and it's not my place to tell you the entire story… but it starts when he was just a boy. His village was ransacked by soldiers and they killed everyone, including his parents.”

“He survived by hiding and after burying his village, he hunted the men down. He tried to fight one of them and cut a scar into his eye before the others jumped him. They… beat him and left him to die before an old man found him and took him back to his own home where Hikan stayed for a year and bonded with the man's granddaughter. ...He and Taigari left after his want for revenge became too much and they set out to find a Teigu, a weapon of immense power. ...She became his first love and together they found and restored Dorkifu… but on the way back, six years after they left, ...she was killed by monsters.”

“Hikan couldn't go back to the village after that, so he went to the capital… and started killing military personnel. That's when he was approached by Najenda and she trained him to be an assassin. They began a group called Night Raid… and that's when he met his second love… Sheele.” The name sounded exactly the same as the name Shanghai had suggested earlier, the Changeling looking at the unicorn for a moment before scooting a bit closer to Arela.

“I…” Alexandria started, speechless at the tale she just heard. She ultimately just shook her head and said 'wow' under her breath. Marisa was silent, looking towards the floor with a frown as she pulled her hat down over her face, putting a finger over Cirno's mouth before the winged girl could make a sound. Patchouli had stopped cleaning up to listen partway through, and shook her head slightly as she slowly resumed her previous task.

Arela was quiet, shaking as she clutched her arms tightly. Starlight looked worriedly at the angel before she kept going. “...Hikan became so… so attached to her. She… showed him light that he blocked out for years. ...But then, he came back from a solo mission and found out that a new member of the group, Tatsumi, had killed the one target he wanted more than any… Captain Ogre, the man that he had given the scar and had led the group that destroyed his home. Hikan was… enraged… but Sheele stopped him from leaving. He… he bought a ring… he was going to propose but he… got sent on another mission…. Wh-when he came back, she… she was….”

“....She was gone.”

Marisa, Cirno and Alexandria all jumped as they heard this from the doorway. They looked to the door… to see Hikan there. Arela remained where she was, still shaking, face hidden by shadow as it was lowered. Hikan looked at the ground, a dead look in his eyes. “....She was on a mission… She and her partner had killed their target and were coming back when they were ambushed… by another Teigu user… she died protecting Mine and the Teigu, it….. There was nothing left to bury….” He looked up from the ground, eyes misted over as they looked at Arela. “I'm sorry, I should hav-”

A powerful force impacted his stomach, and he looked down to see Arela crying hard into his chest. Her wings were tightly wrapped around him as she cried. Hikan stared for a moment before he wrapped his arms around her, his wings doing the same as they lowered on his back. His tears came down in a flood, the man not uttering a word or sound. Patchouli simply continued to fix the furniture, though she had definitely heard the tale as she lowered her head slightly. Alexandria and Marisa just allowed the two to let it out, and Cirno had enough sense to remain quiet without being told for once.

Hikan continued to hold onto the angel for a long while longer before he looked up at Arela and kissed her forehead. “Thank you… Arie…” he said quietly. Arela squeezed him tighter, wiping her tears away.

“Anytime, my love,” she said softly, kissing him on the lips. Hikan kissed her back before he pulled back, giving her a happy smile before a shuffle caught his attention. He looked up to see the soldier Changeling had gotten to her hooves and had taken a step back, freezing as his gaze fell on her. Hikan gave Arela a look before he went over to the Changeling. She shrank back a little before he stopped in front of her, and the two stared at each other.

After a moment, Hikan sighed and looked at her with a different expression. “...My past… should not affect your future…” he started. “...Did you like the name?” The Changeling was still for a long moment before she hesitantly nodded her head. Hikan continued to stare at her before he gave the smallest of smiles. “Then it's yours.”

Arela smiled, walking over to Hikan and hugging his arm as she smiled warmly at the Changeling. “Welcome to the family, ty Shell.”

Alexandria then walked over to Hikan. “Uh, now that that's been sorted out, there's something I've had on my mind for a bit now that I want to ask you about Hikan,” she said.

“Uh,” Hikan said before he was surprised as the Changeling, Shell, hugged onto Arela. “Yeah… what's up?”

Alexandria then pulled one of the spheres from her pouch. “This and the five other spheres… They're a Teigu, aren't they?”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he nodded his head. “The Ace Solution: Die Leaguer…,” he said quietly. “The orb Teigu.”

“I see…” Alexandria said, looking at the orb in her hand. “So it's called Ace Solution…” She then looked up at Hikan again. “Would the orbs also have names?”

Hikan nodded his head. “The Storm Orb, Explosion Orb, Flame, Ice, Lightning, and Rot,” he said quietly. “At least… that's what Champ called them….”

“Lightning Orb…” Alexandria said, looking back to the orb - the Lightning Orb - in her hand.

Hikan nodded his head. “You're really lucky,” he said. “Teigu are picky about their users. Had you picked up Die Leaguer and it not accepted you… you'd probably be dead right now.”

“It's a good thing it didn't reject her then,” Marisa finally spoke up. “I know Alice'd be devastated. I'd probably get a bit teary-eyed too.”

“Ah, that's right,” Alexandria said, putting the Lightning Orb back into her pouch. “Marisa, I have something I wanted to tell you about, and I thought that I might as well do it now since you're right here.”

“Shoot,” Marisa answered.

“The other day, I found out that Shanghai can inherit other people's abilities,” Alexandria said. “It only seems to happen if she's in physical contact with them when she sees them use an ability.”

“I'm having trouble buying that,” Marisa responded. “I want proof.”

“Hmph,” Alexandria said. “Fine. How about we try and have Shanghai inherit your Master Spark? If she does, that should be proof enough.”

“Sure, let's do it right now,” Marisa said. “C'mere,” she said to Shanghai, patting her shoulder, Shanghai complying and grabbing on. “Now, watch closely,” Marisa said, pulling out an octagonal device from under her hat. She then whispered into it and pointed it at an upward angle. After a few moments of energy building up within it, the spell was released.

Love Sign [Master Spark]

A massive beam came out of the face of the device, somehow barely managing not to hit anything in the library. After a few seconds, the beam dissipated. “Alright, now you try and hit me with one,” Marisa said to Shanghai, putting the device back under her hat. Shanghai then went back over to Alexandria before turning towards Marisa. “Though, I really doubt you'll be able to pull it-”

Shanghai [Mini Spark]

Marisa was cut off by a miniature version of her Master Spark blowing her hat right off her head. She stood there, wide-eyed and blinking for a few moments. “Well damn, whadya know? She actually did it,” Marisa said, picking her hat up off the floor and putting it back on.

“....Could you guys give us some warning next time?” Hikan stood in front of Arela and Shell, arms and wings held out. “Those were… more than a little bigger than I was expecting….”

“That reminds me of the Heaven's Wraths back home… Only much less destructive,” Arela noted, peeking her head out from behind Hikan. “Also, like my love said, please do warn us next time.”

“Alright, my bad,” Marisa said.

“Woooooow!!” Cirno shouted, rushing over to Alexandria and Shanghai. “I had no idea your Fairy could do that!”

“If you show her how to freeze something with her on your shoulder, I'm sure she could learn how to freeze things too,” Marisa noted.

“Really!?” Cirno asked. “That's so cool! C'mon Shanghai, I'm gonna show you how to freeze something!” Cirno then grabbed Shanghai's hand and ran out of the library, presumably to find something suitable to freeze.

Starlight, having hid behind a table, peeked out. “Is, uh, is Shanghai going to be okay with her?” She asked worriedly.

“Well, as long as Cirno doesn't bring her too far away from me, she shouldn't be able to kill her,” Alexandria said. “Though, I should probably follow them just to be sure that they don't get too far away.” Alexandria then quickly left the library to follow Cirno.

“I should probably go too,” Marisa said. “Keep Cirno out of trouble.” Marisa then went after Alexandria.

Arela looked to her Devoted. “What should we do now, my love?”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he answered. “Honestly, I could use some new clothes and a bath. After that… we need to get ready to go to Canterlot.”

Starlight stood from her crouching position with a confused look. “Why Canterlot?” She asked, stepping forward.

“That's Juno's next move,” Hikan answered, drawing a confused look from Shell.

“...You were in our link…,” the Changeling muttered. “You've seen inside the hive mind….” Hikan turned to look at her for a moment before giving a slow nod.

“I would like some new clothes, too. These ones are a bit… dirty,” Arela said, motioning to the bloodstains on her clothes.

“I would suggest the Carousel Boutique if you are looking to purchase new attire,” Patchouli spoke up, having finished cleaning the library. “Although the doll maker is there, many of Ponyville's residents praise it as the best clothing shop in town.”

“Thank you, Patchouli,” Hikan said, letting his wings fold back in… only to give one last surprise. Shell's colors had changed without the presence of green flame. The hardened dark blue plates of thick chitin turned to a darker purple, almost black, while the rest of her changed to a paler purple, close to lavender. The final change was in her eyes which had turned to a deep violet. The man stared at the Changeling as she blinked at him.

“...What?” She asked, her tone confused. “Is there something wrong…?”

“You… Changed appearances, almost as seamlessly as the Dream Knights,” Arela pointed out, gesturing to Shell's new look.

Shell blinked at the angel. “I could not have,” she said, lifting her hand. “I did not activate my-” She stopped when she spotted her own appendage, staring at it in surprise. “I-I don't understand….”

“Interesting…” Patchouli said quietly, watching intently.

Hikan stared at Shell for a long moment before he gave a long, tired breath. “Just one more mystery…,” he said quietly. “We should get going. The sooner we can get to Canterlot, the sooner we head off Juno.”

“Agreed. Let us be off,” Arela said, making for the door. They started towards the door, walking out, but when Shell came to it, she stopped and looked nervously outside.

“Is there a problem?” Patchouli asked Shell.

“Um… I… the ponies…” she stumbled, her eyes drifting nervously around.

Patchouli was silent for a moment. “Are you worried about how the residents will react to you after your kind attacked yesterday?” she asked.

Shell nodded her head slowly, the fear starting to become a little more obvious in her faded eyes. Hikan looked at her strangely. “Can't you just disguise yourself?” He asked, causing her to fidget a little.

“It's… a little more complicated,” she said quietly.

“Well, as long as we're here, no one will lay a hand on you, tylin,” Arela assured with a smile.

“I-it's not that…,” she said, shuffling her hooves. “I… don't have any clothes… an-and when we transform, we… we're, um… naked….” Arela blinked.

“Oh,” she said simply, eyes wide.

Hikan's eyes searched Shell for a moment before he gave a little sigh and let his coat drop from his shoulders. “Wisps,” he ordered, throwing the coat into the air in Shell's direction, his four will-o'-wisps forming and rushing the jacket. They circled around it, whirring sounds and lights buzzing out. When Shell caught it, she held a slightly short blouse and skirt made from the coat.

“Why did you…?” She started, looking up at him before he gave a small smile.

“I need a new one, anyway,” he said, letting his wings stretch out. “Can't just keep hiding these things forever.” Arela giggled as she traced a finger along one of his wings.

“Indeed. Much too attractive to hide,” she said with a smile.

Hikan chuckled before he pulled her close and gave her a little kiss before looking back up at Shell. “Go inside and get changed. We'll wait for you.” The Changeling looked down at the clothing then back at him before nodding and disappearing back inside. A few minutes later, a slate blue earth pony with deep purple eyes and mane walked out wearing the skirt and blouse that the wisps had formed from Hikan's coat.

“Is… is this okay?” She asked, Shell's voice coming through if not a bit softer. Arela smiled, walking over to her.

“It's wonderful, Shell. You look beautiful,” Arela complimented, adjusting the blouse on Shell like a mother would their child.

“Just like a Tanuki…” Patchouli commented quietly. “Except without the need of a leaf…”

“I'm… sorry…” Shell said, blinking at the librarian. “What's a Tanuki…?”

“Japanese raccoon of sorts,” Hikan answered. “Supposedly they have mystical abilities… just don't ask about some of the myths.”

“Well, either way, this tylin is adorable,” Arela complimented, smiling at Shell as she finished adjusting her blouse.

Shell smiled a bit before suddenly giving the angel a quick hug before backing up again. “Thank you, Arela,” she said before she cocked her head to the side. “But… what does tylin mean?” Arela giggled.

“Oh, it means 'little one', or 'young one', in Angelic,” Arela explained.

“But I'm close to a hundred years old…” the soldier said, her eyes blinking in confusion. Arela giggled again.

“That's still young by Angel standards, tylin,” Arela told her.

“One hundred years is young by the standards of your kind?” Patchouli asked. “If that's true, then what is your age?”

“Well, I'm still young by Angel standards as well, as most I knew lived to be ten thousand and still looked young. I only reached the age of adolescent two centuries ago, at the age of five-hundred,” Arela explained.

“Five hundred, two centu- Then you are seven hundred years of age,” Patchouli said. Arela nodded.

“Seven hundred and eighty one, to be exact,” Arela said with a proud smile, hands on her hips.

Hikan blinked at each of them in turn. “...And in one fell swoop, you guys have made me feel like a little boy again,” he muttered, putting his hand to his eyes and shaking his head.

“My age happens to be a little more than a full century as well,” Patchouli said. “Though even one hundred years is somewhat young by Yokai standards.”

Hikan gave another sigh before Starlight giggled and pushed his arm with her knuckles. “Oh, come on,” she said with a smile. “You're still older than I am, but I don't see why it's such a big deal.”

“With age comes experience,” Patchouli stated to Starlight. “And experience brings wisdom. Therefore, the more aged an individual, the wiser they would be.”

“Indeed. But that doesn't mean we can't have fun with the tylins,” Arela agreed, walking over and giving a swift kiss to her Devoted. “Right, my love?” She fluttered her eyelashes. Patchouli simply shook her head at this, a slight hint of a smile on her face.

Hikan gave a little groan, but smiled nonetheless. “That's going to stick, isn't it?” He asked, pulling her into a little embrace. Arela giggled.

“Most certainly, my ty Devoted,” Arela purred, kissing him again.

Hikan rolled his eyes jokingly, returning the kiss before straightening up. “We should get going before the sun gets any further along,” he said.

“Right,” Arela said as she turned to the door, arms wrapped around one of his. “Come on, we have some clothing to obtain.”

Shell gave a little smile and a nod before following after them as Hikan started to walk towards town. As they walked outside, Arela nuzzled lovingly into Hikan, still holding his arm.

As they approached the Carousel Boutique, they saw Alexandria, Marisa, Cirno and Alice out front… and it seemed like Alice was giving Cirno an earful. “This can't be good,” Starlight muttered, Hikan shaking his head in agreement.

“What in Hakugyokurou were you thinking!?” they heard Alice shout at Cirno. “How is anybody supposed to get in when the doors are frozen shut!?”

“Should we… wait 'till they're done?” Arela asked her Devoted.

“I… think that would be a very good idea,” Hikan answered, looking between Alice - who was still shouting - and Cirno, weary of the beings that were so closely related to Yuuka.

Marisa then grabbed Cirno by the back of her dress' collar, beginning to drag her away, the group just close enough to hear Marisa tell Cirno that she was grounded for the next three days, followed by Cirno's despaired 'NOOOOOOO!!'. Alexandria watched the two leave, Shanghai on her shoulder. Alice huffed and turned to stare at the frozen doors, her arms crossed. Alexandria then turned to see the four standing down the street, her eyes landing on Shell, who she didn't recognize due to the disguise.

“...Should we be concerned for the blue one?” Shell questioned, tilting her head.

“I'm sure she can handle herself,” Arela said. “Although… We do need to get clothes…”

Hikan looked over the scene for a moment before he started forward. “I think I can handle that,” he assured his Devoted, giving her a little smile.

Alice noticed his approach out of the corner of her eye. She turned her head to look at him. “If you're here to buy some clothes, you'll have to come back later,” she told him, her expression and tone moderately frustrated. “Due to a baka Ice Fairy, the doors are sealed shut right now.”

“I imagine that's making Rarity more than a little anxious,” Hikan said, a confident tone in his voice as Dorkifu revved to life and a visor formed in front of his eyes and over his ears. “Funny thing, ice and stone,” he started, walking up to the door as he reached into his pouch and pulled out a tiny pick and a small hammer. “In their own right, they're very strong building materials. But, with the right touch, and the perfect spot….” His visor traveled over the doors, the pick tapping against the ice and jerking his head in different directions. He then stopped and crouched down, putting the pick and hammer to the ice before tapping the pick into the ice sharply. Cracks spider webbed out, and the ice fell away. “They're as fragile as glass.”

Alice just looked at the doors wide-eyed, unable to say a word. “That was…” Alexandria started, before falling silent as well, unable to find the words to describe just what that was. Arela giggled, walking over to Hikan and kissing his cheek after lifting the visor.

“Amazing as always, my love,” she said with a smile.

Hikan gave a chuckle. “Being a smith was my first profession,” he said. “Dorkifu just makes it way too easy.” Alice just continued to stand staring at the door, dumbfounded.

“Are you guys going to get clothes or cuddle all day?” Starlight asked, looking at Hikan and Arela. “You did say you wanted to be out of here today.” Arela stood up, pulling Hikan with her as she shot a look to Starlight.

“You're just jealous,” she said.

“Tch,” Starlight said, looking away. “Yeah, okay. Let's just get some clothes and get to the train station before noon or else we'll get to Canterlot after the sun goes down.”

Hikan took a look up at the sun for a moment before looking back down. “She's right, we really should get a move on.” Arela simply grinned at Starlight, knowing she'd won, before turning back to the door.

“Let us do so, then, my love,” she said, leaning against him. Hikan couldn't make up his mind of whether he wanted to sigh or chuckle… so he compromised and shook his head before walking towards the door.

“You two are going to be the death of me…” he muttered before opening and holding the door for them, Shell being the first to slip in as she noticed someponies walk by, look at her, and start whispering to each other.

Alexandria stayed out front, an expression of deep thought on her face.

As the four entered, Rarity came out from the store's back room, having heard customers come in. “Welcome to the Carousel Boutique, how may-” she then cut off when she saw Arela's blood crusted clothes. “Oh, nonono, that won't do, that won't do at all,” she said, shaking her head with a frown. “Come come, allow me to help you find some cleaner attire,” she said, ushering Arela towards a change room. Arela blinked as she was ushered in, away from her Devoted.

“Oh, um, okay,” she said, surprised at the sudden and informal greeting.

Hikan gave a little chuckle before he started to look around. Shell looked more than a little nervous as she backed into a corner and kept to herself.

“Umm…” Arela said nervously, playing with her hands as Rarity looked at her expectantly. “S-So I have to… strip?”

“Of course you do, dear,” Rarity responded. “I can't put the clean outfit over top that soiled one.” Arela blushed and slowly nodded, untying the string on the corset and shrugging the clothes off, revealing her golden panties and bra. Her wings spread out as she took it off, revealing their golden splendor.

Rarity's eyes widened when she saw the wings. “My word,” she said under her breath, however she recovered her composure quickly as she began thinking up the perfect outfit for Arela. After a few moments, she seemed to figure out what to do. “Alright darling, you just wait right there. I'll have you looking presentable again before you know it.” She then went to get the things she was going to need.

Back on the Carousel Boutique's main floor, Hikan came to a stop, Shell still trembling a bit in the corner. “...You okay?” He asked suddenly, making the Changeling jump.

She looked at him with wide eyes for a moment before she answered. “N-not really,” she said. “How long will the unicorn keep Lady Arela?”

Hikan turned his head and gave her a questioning look. “Rarity's a master of her craft, it shouldn't take long,” he replied, turning his body to follow his gaze. “You seem to be really attached to her.”

Shell blinked at him before looking towards the floor. “She's been kind,” she said softly. “And….”

“You have my thoughts and memories.” The sudden statement shocked the Changeling who looked up quickly. She nodded with a scared expression forming on her face, but before Hikan could say anything else, Rarity opened the change room curtain as she and Arela stepped out, Arela wearing a completely new outfit.

Arela was now wearing a pristine white, short-sleeved blouse, which had slits in the back for her wings, and a skirt that reached to her knees. The skirt's colour was a sort of pale honey colour, looking much like gold. Arela's hair had also been made slightly wavy, a hair clip having been put in it off to the side. The hair clip had a small design on it made from gemstones: there were two angel wing shapes made from topazes, the two wings originating from a single opal at the center of the design.

“D-Do I look okay?” she asked, nervously gripping the hem of her new skirt.

“Not 'okay' dear,” Rarity said. “You look wonderful. It's an outfit made with my impeccable fashion sense after all.” Arela blushed, looking to Hikan, still gripping her skirt.

Hikan smiled and stepped forward, wrapping his arms around her. “You look beautiful,” he said, giving her a kiss. Arela blushed more, but leaned into the kiss.

Hikan let the kiss trail on for a few moments before he pulled back. He stepped and turned to look towards Shell. “Your turn if you're ready, Shell,” he said, giving her a little smile.

The mare tapped the tips of her fingers together nervously. “I-if you think so…,” she said nervously. Arela, now assured that she didn't look weird, smiled at Shell.

“You'll be okay, mai tylin,” Arela assured.

Shell gave a little smile and nodded her head to Arela's words before beginning to walk forwards towards Rarity. “Should… would it be better if I… took on my natural state?” She asked.

Hikan looked between the mare and Rarity for a second before he looked back at Shell and gave her a little smile. “I'm sure we can trust Rarity,” he said before looking at the unicorn. “So long as she understands you're a gentle soul.” The disguised Changeling hesitated a moment before she nodded. She closed her eyes tight and green flames swirled around her, the gray-blue mare seeming to burn away and leave behind a Changeling in the makeshift skirt and blouse. She looked up at Rarity with a scared look and brought her arms up to hug herself nervously.

Rarity's eyes widened in surprise when she saw the Changeling. It took her several seconds before she shook her head and regained her composure. “Well, you seem harmless enough…” she said slowly. “Alright, I'll see what I can do.” Rarity then went towards the back room to find some clothing. “While I go and find some clothing, how about you get yourself into a change room dear?” she said over her shoulder to Shell. The Changeling nodded her head a bit, walking into the changing room quietly.

After a minute or so, Rarity then brought some clothing from the back room into the change room with Shell. After several more moments, the curtain was opened again to reveal the Changeling in a simple blue outfit. It was comprised of a pale blue, short-sleeved shirt, the sleeve cuffs being slightly ruffled, as well as a pair of darker blue cut-off pants that reached just past the knees. The outfit was complete with a necklace that had a small scarab charm, the scarab being a small, etched sapphire.

Shell fidgeted nervously with the scarab charm, her eyes darting up and down between the floor and the others. “U-um, what do you think?” She asked, looking up at Arela, then Hikan, and back to the angel. Arela smiled, walking over and giving the Changeling a kiss on the forehead.

“Beautiful, my tylin,” she said warmly. The Changeling closed her eyes and smiled a bit as she kissed her before looked back up with a gleam in her eyes. Hikan smiled as well as he watched the scene.

The sound of someone clearing their throat shook them out of the happy moment. “We still have a train to catch,” Starlight reminded as Shell and Hikan looked towards her. “If we don't hurry, we will miss our train.”

“Right,” Hikan said, giving a nod before turning to Rarity. “How fast can you make a long coat that'll let my wings through?”

Rarity gave him a look. “Do you not know who you're talking to?” she said. “I guarantee five minutes at most, or my name isn't Rarity.” She then went into the back room to make the long coat in question. It was only three minutes before she came back with a brown-orange long coat that had slits in the back for wings. She then handed it to Hikan. “Don't worry about paying right now,” she said. “I wouldn't want you to miss your train. I'll just have you pay for the clothing at a later date.”

Hikan shook his head. “No way,” he said before reaching into his pouch. He rummaged for a moment or two to the sound of loud jingling before pulling out a handful of gold coins, precious jewels, and a pearl necklace. “Will this work?” Rarity stared in silence for a few moments.

“Y-Yes, that's more than enough,” she finally answered before taking the valuables from Hikan.

The assassin nodded. “Thanks, Rarity,” he said before turning towards the door and slipping on the coat, his wings coming through with no problem. “Okay, gang, let's get going.”

“But-” Starlight started only to be cut off.

“I'll give my other clothes a spit-shine along the way, don't worry,” the hunter said already headed for the door, causing the pink unicorn to fume.

“That's not what I was going to ask…” she murmured as she followed him.

When they stepped outside, they ran into Alice, who was finally about to enter. “Oh, uh, thanks for getting the door open,” she said awkwardly to Hikan.

“Uh, you're welcome…?” He answered awkwardly, getting out of the way and holding the door for her to enter.

As Alice went to enter, Alexandria - who was also still outside - spoke up. “You said that you had a train to catch,” she said. “And if I remember correctly, you said that it's headed to a place called Canterlot. Do you mind if I ask why you want to go there?”

Hikan shrugged his shoulders. “Not at all,” he replied. “When I use Master of Things I can basically 'hack' into just about any network or start to construct or deconstruct it. When I… connected to the breeder, I was able to sort of ride my way to Juno's thoughts. I didn't get much except the word 'Canterlot' over and over again. The first time I connected to a Changeling and found him, his thoughts surrounded around 'Ponyville' and we can see what happened here, though I doubt he's going to try such a rough tactic like he did here.”

Alexandria was silent for a few moments, though not due to thought or surprise. Instead, she seemed to have an expression of… almost determination. “I…” Alexandria began. “I just can't let someone like him run around freely. He attacked this town for possibly little to no reason, and I don't know why he's planning on attacking this Canterlot, but I frankly don't care. I don't want to let him. Please, let me come with you so I can help. I promise I won't be a burden.”

Hikan looked the girl over for a moment before he raised an eyebrow. “You sure you can handle it?” he asked.

“I'll handle whatever I need to,” Alexandria answered stubbornly.

“I hope you're right about that.” A voice suddenly said from behind Alexandria. Alexandria turned around quickly, her arm poised, ready to attack at a moment's notice… only to see Starlight there behind her.

“You startled me,” she said to Starlight, slowly relaxing. “I was about ready to hit you with a lightning bolt you know.”

“She could take it,” Hikan said, patting her shoulder suddenly. “But just so you know, that's what a rookie can do.”

Alexandria turned back to look at Hikan. “Well, I have my ability that I inherited from my mother as well as two types of magic at my disposal,” she began. “In addition to that, I've got Ace Solution now, and Shanghai has a few abilities of her own that will prove to be useful. I should be able to hold my own.”

Hikan gave a little shrug. “You're still going to need to learn a few things,” he said before looking towards Shell and Arela. “That actually applies to all of us. We're stepping into completely new territory.”

Alexandria gave a small grin. “Exactly, we're all in the same boat,” she said. “Plus, even if you say no, I'm planning on just flying after the train and following you anyway.”

“Never said no, Alex,” the assassin said. “But we will have to learn the terrain, some of us need to build up our physical strength, you need to figure the ins and outs of Die Leaguer… and we really need a place to stay….”

“Don't worry,” Alexandria said. “I'll be sure to pull my own weight. I can be a diligent worker.”

“That I can attest to,” Alice suddenly said, coming back out of the Carousel Boutique. “I only heard the beginning and a bit of the end of that conversation, but… I understand that Alex is going to be leaving with you guys to chase after that insect-like guy from yesterday?”

Hikan looks at Alice as Shell, having taken on her mare disguise, winces at the doll maker's description. “It appears that way,” he answered before looking back at Alex. “Not that I think we have much choice in the matter.”

Alice was silent for a couple moments. During this time, the group noticed that she seemed to be holding something in her hands, but she was gripping it in such a way that her hands hid it from view. She then walked over to Alexandria. “Um…” she started. “So, this is kind of a parting gift. You know how all my dolls have various weapons that they wield?” Alexandria nodded. “Well, Shanghai also has a weapon of her own.” At this, Alice opened her hands and held one out to Alexandria. In it was a very small, sheathed broadsword. “This is Shanghai's own broadsword,” Alice said, before speaking directly to Shanghai. “I want you to take it with you.” Shanghai then floated down to pick up the broadsword, slinging the sheath over her shoulder so that the strap went across her front diagonally. It fit her perfectly. Alice was silent for a few moments again. “Please promise me you'll come back safely,” she said to Alexandria. “I… don't know what I'd do if I lost my best friend…”

“Don't worry Alice,” Alexandria answered, putting her hand on Alice's shoulder. “I won't get myself killed, alright? And thanks for Shanghai's broadsword. I'm sure it'll be helpful.” Alexandria then turned to Hikan. “Anyway, we have a train to catch, right?”

Hikan went to answer before he was lifted up in a turquoise aura and started to be hauled away. “Yes, yes we do,” Starlight said as she started to walk towards the station, Hikan in tow. “And if we spend any more time sitting around talking, we'll have to wait for the late train.” Alexandria smiled and began following them.

“Bye Alice!” she said over her shoulder, waving. “I promise I'll come back safe!” Arela grumbled as Starlight carried her Devoted off, not liking the way she so roughly treated him, but not arguing as she could see that they did need to hurry up. Shell hurried after the group, sticking close to Arela as the group made their way to the train station.

The trip to the station was relatively uneventful. It wasn't long before they had their tickets and were waiting outside for the train to roll in. Hikan let out a tired sigh and sat on the bench… before his brow twitched. He opened one eye and realized how close Starlight was standing to Arela. For a moment, he watched them. “...Shell?” He said.

“Hm?” The mare answered, poking her head out from behind Alex.

“Could you stand there, please?” He asked, pointing directly between the unicorn and angel. The Changeling gave him a confused look before stepping between them. “Thank you.” With that, Hikan leaned his head back and closed his eyes, waiting for the train to come through.

“So… fala,” Arela began, addressing Starlight.

The unicorn leaned forward and looked past Shell as Hikan sank on the bench and gave a groan. “What?” She asked irritably, a frown on her face.

“...How was the Trial of Godly Eyes?” Arela asked, making Starlight pale and look away. Arela grinned.

“Th-that's not funny,” Starlight said quietly, a shudder in her voice that actually made Hikan open his eyes and caused Alexandria to look at the two women. Cataclysm climbed up onto Starlight's shoulder, giving her a worried look for several moments. Shell winced and backed away from the unicorn, starting to rub her arm that had been closest to Starlight.

“Well, I'm honestly just surprised you survived. Most who took the trial died on the spot from the sheer amount of information and shock,” Arela continued.

Starlight didn't seem to respond, just kept her eyes off of the angel, her shoulders suddenly giving a little shake, drawing a disgruntled rumble from the Nil Dragon on her shoulder.

Arela's grin grew, up until Hikan butted in. “Arie, that's enough,” the assassin said, stepping up behind the angel and putting a hand on her shoulder before walking to Starlight.

“Star, she-” the man was cut off quickly when the unicorn lunged forward and wrapped her arms around him, the sounds of her sobs muffled as she cried into him. Hikan's face was that of surprise for several moments before he gave a sad little frown and wrapped his arms around her too, gently smoothing out her mane as stress tangles started to try and take root. Alexandria watched this in silence for a couple moments before glancing at Arela, a hint of disapproval in her expression. Arela stared at the scene for a straight ten seconds, then looked away, realizing she had gone too far. She slowly walked away and sat down on an empty bench away from them all, ashamed of herself.

Starlight continued to cry until the train pulled into the station, at which point Hikan pushed on her shoulders a bit to get her to lean back and reveal her puffy red eyes. “You okay?” He asked softly, receiving a nod from the mare. He nodded his head and rubbed her shoulder. “Okay. Why don't you and Alex go find us a few seats?” Starlight nodded again and turned to board the train.

Alexandria looked at Hikan for a few moments before going over to the train as well. When she got to the door, she stopped and turned, looking back at Ponyville. She stood like that for a couple seconds before whispering “I swear I'll come back safe and victorious…” After that, she turned back and boarded as well to help Starlight find some seats. Arela didn't say anything, looking down at her feet. Shell stood by nervously looking between Arela and Hikan. Her gaze jerked to a halt on the man as he put a hand on her arm.

“Could you please go with the others?” He asked, giving her a soft look. The disguised Changeling was silent for a moment before nodding slowly. She threw one last look at the angel before following Starlight and Alexandria onto the train. Hikan watched her go before he gave a small sigh and walked over to Arela. After a moment, he lifted a hand and put it on her back under her shoulder.

“I…” Arela seemed to choke on her words. “I… I don't know what came over me. I didn't mean to make her cry…” She said softly. She hugged herself. “Gods, what is wrong with me? I've never been this way before!”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he wrapped his arms around her and rubbed her back softly. “Sometimes… we let the worst of ourselves come out when we least expect it…” he said quietly.

“That doesn't make it right, though… Gods, this…” her eyes widened in fear. “Oh Gods… This is just like my brother's taivente. Gods… Oh Gods…” She started to tremble.

“Hey,” he said softly, pulling back a little and rubbing her shoulder. “I'm not sure what this taivente is but I know one thing. You hurt somebody… but you're not a bad person. You realize that things went too far and I know you won't do it again… and I know you know what the right thing to do is….”

“You don't understand. A taivente is the absolute worst thing to happen to an angel. Even more so for a high angel like me. Back home, if it happened, I would be disowned, wiped from the annals, and exiled to the Frigid Wastes to die alone!” Arela said, seeming quite scared now. Her wings were fully folded now, and her hands were so tightly digging into her flesh her knuckles were white.

Hikan gave a worried look before taking one of her hands in his own and gently rubbing the back of it. “But you're not there anymore,” he said softly. “You're here, with me, and around here we call it a mistake. And mistakes are forgivable. You and Starlight are so much alike that this was bound to happen and I'm honestly surprised it took this long. But right now, the only thing you can do is apologize….” Arela hung her head again. After a short while, she rushed towards him in a blur of movement, golden feathers flying, and tackled him to the ground in a compromising position.

“You'll be there to support me, right?” she asked softly.

Hikan looked up and nodded at her, his face leaving no room for doubt. “Of course,” he answered quietly. “Forever and always, and without hesitation.” She smiled lightly, giving him a fierce yet quick kiss before getting off of him.

“Thank you,” she almost whispered.

Hikan smiled warmly up at her before getting to his feet. “You're welcome, my angel,” he answered softly, wrapping an arm around her shoulder and kissing the top of her head. “Now c'mon, don't wanna miss a train we're standing right in front of, right?” She nodded, following him into the train.

On the train, Starlight had found a seat and was quietly petting Cataclysm's feathers, the Nil Dragon dozing in her lap while Shell sat nearby, trying to avoid eye contact with other passengers. Alexandria was sitting across from Starlight, Shanghai having taken a seat on a nearby bench. Alexandria saw the two come in and waved them over. “Shanghai kept your seats warm for you,” she said to them as they approached, a small smile on her face. It was fairly obvious that she was trying to brighten the mood from before. Arela nodded with a light smile, before looking to Starlight. Slowly, she approached her, hands behind her back.

Starlight kept her eyes glued on the floor, her hand moving to scratch underneath the demon dragon's chin.

“...Starlight,” Arela said softly, surprising the unicorn as she had never addressed her by name before.

The unicorn looked up at the angel, a myriad of emotions flashing through her eyes. She still said nothing, but she gave Arela the attention she requested. Arela looked her straight in the eyes, then sighed deeply, scuffing a foot on the floor.

“...I'm sorry,” she said simply.

Starlight stared at her for a moment before her eyes sank back to the floor, silence ruling the air. “...Twilight once told me that forgiveness is the key to friendship…” she said quietly before giving a strangled sigh. “But… I find it hard.” She looked back up at the angel with tired, sad eyes. “Is it even possible for us to be friends? I just… I just don't understand….”

“I…” Arela seemed lost as well. Though, after a good moment of silence and the conductor telling the passengers the train was about to move, she had an idea. “Well… Much as I hate to admit it… You ponies have, what was it? Herds?” She shook her head. “Regardless, I think I can… learn to live with the idea of us being in one. I can't guarantee I'll be as pleasant, but… I'll try. I don't want my taivente to happen, ever. If this is how I can avoid it…” She reached a hand to Starlight, and made a genuine smile. “All the better.”

Starlight was quiet for a moment. Her silence permeated the air as she looked at the hand… before she looked away and gave a soft chuckle. “I'm not sure herd is what you meant,” she said with humor in her voice before she lifted her hand to meet Arela's. “But… I think we can work it out….” Arela smiled, pulling her up and, to the unicorn's further surprise, she was pulled into a hug, wings and all. She noted they felt… warmer, than arms.

“I hope so, you dirty fala,” Arela joked.

Starlight didn't move for a moment before she gave a little smile and returned the hug. Hikan smiled as well, happy to see his friend and Devoted finally making some sort of progress with one another. Arela slowly let go, before she seemed to remember something else.

“Oh! My lord wanted me to give this to you, and said you should share it with the…'Yokai half-breed'?” Arela said - eliciting a fairly noticeable wince from Alexandria, though Alexandria remained silent - before shrugging it off and pulling a large, purple book out of thin air, covered in arcane symbols that made Starlight's eyes go starry. Starlight took the book before throwing another one armed hug around the angel. She practically bounced back into her seat and pulled the book open. After a moment, the last part of Arela's sentence seemed to register.

She gave a sheepish grin before she looked at Alex and patted the seat next to her. “Sorry, I, um… get excited,” she apologized. “Care to learn a new language and some magic…?” Alexandria glanced at the book quickly, a bit of curiosity in her expression.

“Sure,” she answered as she went to sit next to Starlight, Shanghai following and settling on Alexandria's shoulder. As Alexandria sat down she looked to Arela. “Also, um… Please don't call me… 'half-breed'…” she said somewhat awkwardly. “It's… kind of a… very rude term for half-Yokai…” Arela blinked.

“Oh! Um, sorry, I was just quoting my lord,” Arela said, rubbing the back of her neck sheepishly.

“No, it's okay,” Alexandria responded. “You didn't know any better. As long as you don't call me that again, then it's fine.” Arela nodded as the two silently read the book. After trying to read the script for ten minutes, Alexandria realized that she didn't understand any of the archaic and strangely glowing words.

Starlight gave a little smile before she began to teach the Yokai the ins and outs she had learned during her time in Erevale. Hikan took his seat and sat back with a happy smile, leaning his head back. Arela chimed in from time to time, correcting the two when they made a mistake in pronunciation or vernacular, and making a few basic arcane gestures to demonstrate the spells. Shell was quiet for most of the trip, keeping close to Arela as the train rushed across the Equestrian landscape, Canterlot's silhouette looming in the distance and waiting for their arrival.

Chapter 10

Arela pointed to a word and an accompanying diagram in the book she'd given to Starlight and Alexandria. “Try again. Alos,” she said, a small rune appearing in her palm before a storm appeared in its place, dissipating quickly. “Channel your inner frustration, your confusion, into the rune lattices as you make them.”

Starlight nodded her head before she held up her palm and tried it once more. “Alos,” she said, the rune forming before repeating what had happened with Arela's spell… only it looked far less impressive.

“Good, good, but try and keep the lattices more precise. That way the spell is more powerful,” Arela explained.

Alexandria had been observing both Arela and Starlight as they performed the spell, wanting to see some examples before trying it. Seeing Starlight succeed, Alexandria finally made her first attempt at the spell. She held up her palm and read the rune. “Alos,” she said. The rune appeared in her palm, glowing brightly before disappearing, and… nothing else happened.

Hikan sat nearby watching the little lesson with a smile on his face. He glanced at Shell as she sat next to Arela, jerking her hand and saying, “alos” over and over again, but having no luck at all with it. He grunted a bit as he felt a weight push into his shoulder, looking to see Cataclysm with his four front legs on the back of the bench, watching the landscape go by. He shook his head again and settled back in. We're certainly an odd group, he thought to himself, closing his eyes again.

“Hmm… That's strange, it should have worked. You did everything perfectly from what I can tell,” Arela said, humming in thought as she looked at Alexandria.

Alexandria thought it over for a few moments. “Well, the magic that I can already use is purely inherited,” she started, half talking to herself as she thought out loud. “I haven't had to practice it at all… Maybe my body isn't used to learning new magic somehow, if that makes any sense?” Arela hummed in thought.

“I suppose…” She looked to Starlight, seeing her practice over and over. She giggled. “Don't get too magic happy, Starlight. You could accidentally create a real storm.”

Starlight's latest attempt faded and she clenched her hand and pulled it back into her lap. “Sorry,” she said, giving a sheepish grin. “I just get a little too into learning new spells.”

“It's fine, really,” Arela said. Starlight smiled before her head turned to look at Cat as his claws started to click against the window, the outskirts of Canterlot coming into view as they started to pull into the mountain city.

Hikan opened his eyes and leaned his head back to look out the window. “Ladies,” he said. “Welcome to Canterlot.”

Alexandria looked out the window and was awestruck by the large city. “Wow…” she said quietly.

“It's huge…!” Shanghai added from Alexandria's shoulder.

“Wow… It's almost like Koganusan…” Arela breathed. Hikan looked at her. “A very famous dwarven city, known as the Capital of Trade and nicknamed 'The Laboring City' by Lleiyans back in the day. It had large statues of the twin ancestors, Rickul and Grosh, on either side of it's gilded gates.”

“Oh,” Hikan said, blinking before giving a smile. “That sounds a lot like Canterlot. Certainly a place for the hustle and bustle of trade and economy, though, here, Celestia and Luna rule the heavens.”

“That sounds like Triyte and Litgh,” Arela noted, before shaking her head. “Either way, I loved Koganusan. My mother used to take me there for the famous Dwarven treat, rsiuli. Gods, I loved that stuff.”

“Well,” Starlight said, getting to her hooves and letting Cat jump up onto her shoulders. “Let's hope you enjoy it here, too.” It wasn't long before the train pulled into the station, brakes screeching as they came to a stop. The group made their way off the train, stepping onto the platform as the sun was starting to make its descent in the sky.

“Alright, guys,” Hikan said, taking in a breath of air. “First things first, we need a place to st-” A loud growl interrupted him and, as he turned his head to follow its direction, Shell put a hand to her stomach, eyes wide in embarrassment.

“U-um,” the disguised Changeling stammered before giving a nervous smile. “Excuse me…?”

“Seems like someone's hungry,” Alexandria noted with a grin. Shell gave a nervous breath of laughter. Hikan watched for a moment before he put his hand to the pouch at his hip.

“Hm…” Hikan hummed, thinking for a moment. “There should be enough for us to get a good meal before we start trying to ration…. Any preferences for what we eat?”

Alexandria shook her head. “Don't worry about me,” she said. “Being half Yokai, I don't need to eat as often as humans.” She then glanced at Starlight. “Or ponies, I guess,” she added.

“I'm curious if they have something that milord had me try once, I believe they were called… donuts?” Arela said, finger to her chin as her brow furrowed in thought adorably.

“I do remember Twilight telling me about her favorite pastry shop,” Starlight said. “I could actually go for some Bitalian food right about now….”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he lifted a finger. “How about… we find a Bitalian place for dinner, then go to Donut Joe's for dessert,” he said, ignoring the surprised look from Starlight. “How's that sound to you guys?”

“Again, I won't be eating, so I'm fine doing whatever,” Alexandria answered.

“I love it, let's do it,” Arela said with a smile.

Hikan nodded and smiled before turning and pumping his fist into the air. “To food!” He said excitedly before heading towards the platform booth to get a map of the city. With the map in hand, and several odd looks in the group's direction, he began to lead them through the city, following the route the ticket pony had provided them. Shanghai was looking around in awe, oblivious to the surprised looks she was getting.

Arela was likewise looking around in awe, although she did notice the stares. She shivered as the few pegasi around stared at her wings in particular, knowing why they were doing so thanks to being avian. Hikan mostly ignored the crowd before the angel shivered.

“Hey,” he said softly, slowing down to keep pace with her. “What's wrong?”

“J-Just a few lustful stares, I-It's fine, I got a lot back home, too,” she said unconvincingly.

Hikan raised a brow before looking out at the crowd. He lifted his hand and put his arm around her shoulders, pulling her in protectively. “C'mon,” he said quietly. “Let's just find that Bitalian joint.” She nodded, leaning into him as they walked. After a few more minutes of walking they found their way to the front of a mostly white building with a deep purple roof. Gold cursive writing above the door spelled out, “La Mela Dorata.” They went inside and found that the line, though moving, was rather backed up. Arela frowned, but continued leaning into her Devoted.

“I'm glad I don't need to eat yet,” Alexandria commented, eyeing the line with a small frown. Then, out of nowhere, Hikan felt a small, heavy bronze looking box fall on his head. A note was attached to it.

“GAK!” Hikan started, his head falling forward as the box fell towards the ground before getting caught in a turquoise aura. Starlight levitated the box up into her hands as the man rubbed his head. Taking the note in her other hand, she started to read it out loud.

“Hello, young Hikan. This is Stateran. I nearly forgot to give this to you. It is a Bali, a great weapon of the dwarves. It only requires you to fill it's cartridge with magic to reload. As for the appearance of it, on your head, I figured it would be easier to displace it with my temporal magic. Sorry if it hit you on the head, I was aiming for in front of you. The magic must be raw alone. Any kind will work, as long as it is raw. It refines it itself. Also, this is a top of the line model, from the peak of the dwarven empire, so treat it well. Signed, Stateran.” Starlight looked up with a confused look. “Why on Terra would he give you a weapon of mass destruction?”

Hikan looked up with an annoyed look. “Why would anyone ever give anyone else a weapon of mass destruction as a gift?” Alexandria asked, an eyebrow raised. Another note fell, this time landing on Hikan's face. The assassin pulled the note off, his brow ticking a little before he read it out.

“This item has been given to you because I have seen your future, and it is not pretty. You will need this weapon. I cannot say when, but it will happen. Know that I never give these out anymore, as the war during the Cataclysm of Lleiya saw so many of these in bandit hands that I had to intervene. Don't make me come down there and retake it. Sorry that I didn't explain this on the first note, there was little room. Stateran,” Hikan finished, putting the note down with a pat of his hands against his sides. “Well… I'll just take that and put it somewhere safe.” He plucked the box from Starlight's hand and stuck it into the pouch on his belt.

He looked up to see several ponies staring at them, some putting a protective arm around their children. “...What, you guys don't get gifts from Gods?” The man asked the crowd, looking around. Some seemed even more worried and others just rolled their eyes, but the effect was the same as they all looked away. The rest of the wait was much less eventful and eventually the group made it to the podium to be seated.

“Welcome to La Mela Dorata,” the hostess greeted, looking at her chart of open tables. “How many are in your-” she looked up and went wide-eyed when she saw the group. “...party?”

“Um,” Hikan hummed, looking around and doing a quick head count. “A table for five please.”

The mare blinked for a few seconds before tearing her eyes away and looking towards her chart again. “Uh, t-table or booth?” She asked, looking up again, albeit nervously.

“Hm… guys?” Hikan questioned, looking at each of them.

“Again, doesn't really matter much to me,” Alexandria said.

“A booth sounds good to me,” Arela said, nuzzling Hikan's arm.

“Definitely booth,” Starlight agreed.

The hunter nodded before giving a smile and looking back to the hostess. “Booth, please.” The mare nodded her head and grabbed some menus and silverware rolls.

“If you'd please follow me,” she said, before leaving the podium and walking further into the restaurant. Hikan nodded and followed after her, putting a hand over Arela's shoulder as Shell, Starlight and Alexandria followed. She led them through to the back of the restaurant to a booth that hugged and curved with the corner of the building. She set the places before stepping back to let them take their seats. Hikan moved out of the way to let the ladies take their seats first. Arela pulled Hikan with her to the back of the booth, then patted a spot next to Hikan for Starlight, giving her a knowing smile. Starlight gave her own smile before she slid in next to Hikan. Shell took the chance to slide into the booth on the other side of Arela. Alexandria then sat down on Starlight's other side, deciding to give Shell some space, knowing she was still bad with being near people other than Arela.

Arela smiled, wrapping a golden wing around Shell comfortingly. Shell let out a small breath and relaxed before the hostess spoke up again. “Your server will be with you shortly,” she said, giving a small bow of her head before scampering away a bit more quickly than was necessary. Alexandria watched the hostess leave, a small smile on her face, though with a hint of embarrassment in her expression.

“I think we, uh… 'surprised' her,” Alexandria commented.

“Well, to my knowledge, most High Angels or angels in general in other worlds don't have golden wings like me, much less as large as mine,” Arela noted. She lightly ran a finger down one of Hikan's wings. “And my Devoted is practically in the same boat.”

“That's… not what I meant…” Alexandria said.

“It's because we're not ponies,” Shanghai piped up.

“I think it may be a bit more than that…” Shell said, pressing her pointer fingers together nervously.

“Like the fact that three of us aren't native to Terra at all?” Hikan asked jokingly, lifting up a menu as he tried to play off the shiver that had run down his body at Arela's touch. Arela grinned a bit at this, making a glance to Starlight and subtly motioning for her to try it. Starlight frowned a bit at this before picking up a menu… but she couldn't help her eyes glancing at Hikan's wing. After trying to hold it, she smiled mischievously before doing the same as Arela had before. The man's entire body arched and shivered, a chattering noise coming from him. “Chchchch- Would you two cut that out? That is so weird!” He said, not agitated or angry, but definitely weirded out by something.

“Hello, my name is Gaelle, and I'll be your waitress for the night.” The sudden statement had the young man looking up to see a griffoness that resembled a blue jay standing at the front of the table with a pen and pad. “Can I get you guys anything to drink?”

“No, I'm okay, thanks,” Alexandria said, shaking her head.

“Water, please,” Arela said politely.

“I'll take water as well,” Starlight said with a smile. “But could I get some lemon with that, too, please?”

“Of course,” Gaelle answered, scribbling in her notepad before turning to look at Hikan and Shell. “And for you two?”

“You don't happen to have any green tea, would you?” Hikan asked, giving a little grin when the griffoness nodded. “Great, I'd like a cup, please.”

The waitress nodded her head before looking at Shell, the disguised Changeling shrinking back a little. “U-um,” she started, looking at each of them. “I-I'll take, um… green tea?” The griffon smiled at her reassuringly before scribbling down Shell's order.

“Alrighty,” Gaelle said, giving the group a smile as she put away her pen and pad. “I'll be right back with your drinks and I'll get your orders.” With that, she nodded her head, turned and walked away. For any that paid attention, she walked with a certain practice, something small but noticeable that turned more than a few heads in the restaurant.

“She seems to like the attention of men,” Arela noted, watching her.

Hikan watched her go with a critical eye. “She certainly does…” he murmured before his eyes traveled to other patrons. “...The mares don't seem too deterred either, though….”

“Hmmm…” Arela hummed in thought.

Alexandria watched Gaelle leave. “It doesn't seem like she's trying either,” she commented. “It seems to come naturally to her, almost as if she put a lot of practice into it…” Alexandria was quiet for a moment before adding very quietly, under her breath so that not even Starlight next to her could make out the words, “though it's oddly effective…”

Hikan's eyes narrowed for a moment… before he picked up his menu and started looking through it. “What she does on the side is her own business,” he said quietly, Starlight blinking at him.

“Are you saying she's a-” she started only to be stopped by his look. “Right, her business, not ours.” She picked up her own menu and looked through the dinners. Arela frowned at this.

“Reminds me of one of my old friends who taivente,” Arela said with a shiver. “She was sent to Triyte's Wastes for almost killing a man from not stopping.”

Even Hikan shivered a bit at that. “It's probably best we don't bring it up,” he said quietly, eyeing a picture of stromboli.

“I can't sense any lust from her…” Shell suddenly spoke up in quiet whispers. “In fact… she seems genuinely happy to be here…”

Alexandria's brows furrowed in confusion at that. “What do you mean she seems 'genuinely happy to be here'?” she asked.

Shell flinched a little. “I-I mean, she wants to be here,” she tried to explain. “It feels like she wants to be here rather than… somewhere else….”

“Well, why don't we ask her about it?” Arela suggested.

Starlight winced a little. “Maybe we shouldn't,” she said slowly. “Sometimes… ponies run from the pasts they're ashamed of… Prying isn't really polite anyway….”

Alexandria was quiet for a moment, looking down at the table. “But sometimes bottling up your feelings and just running away from your problems can be just as bad…” she said a little quietly. “Sometimes it's better to tell someone and seek help instead of hiding…”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before his eyes caught a flash of blue coming towards them. “Not a word to her,” he said definitely. “Her business is hers and hers alone until she invites us in. That's how it's always been and how we should remain moving forward.” Arela shrugged and laid against her Devoted.

“Alright,” Alexandria said simply. Starlight and Shell nodded their heads just before Gaelle stopped in front of their table, carrying a tray with their drinks on it.

“And here you are,” she said before reaching up to take one of the glasses. “Water for the angel, water with lemon for the unicorn, and green tea for the, um…” she paused at Hikan, her eyes resting over him. “Um, dra- for you sir, and for the mare.” She finished serving the drinks before straightening up and smiling once more. “Are you guys ready to order?”

Arela nodded. “I'd like the… Kenoli?” Arela shook her head. “Yeah, that sounds good.”

Gaelle nodded her head with a smile. “Trust me, it's a lot better than it sounds,” she said, giving a little wink before looking towards Alexandria.

Alexandria smiled sheepishly as she answered. “Actually, I don't need to eat very often, so I'm not having anything,” she said to Gaelle. “Unless you want to try something Shanghai?” she added, turning to look at Shanghai.

Shanghai thought for a few moments, looking at Hikan's menu. “The, um… rahv… eye-all… Um…” Shanghai struggled to pronounce 'ravioli'.

“You want the ravioli?” The griffoness asked the doll, giving her a patient smile.

“Um, yes, that looks nice,” Shanghai said with a smile. “I'll have that, please.” Arela smiled at Gaelle.

“Alright, sweetie,” Gaelle said, scribbling in her pad before returning Arela's smile and looking towards Hikan. “For you, sir?”

“I'll have the stromboli,” he said, giving a small smile as she nodded and wrote his order down.

Finally, the waitress looked towards Shell, the mare shrinking a little. “U-um, I'll have the… pasta sampler…?” she said quietly before she received a warm smile from the griffoness.

“Coming right up,” she said, flipping her notepad closed and slipping it into her apron before taking their menus. “I'll be back with your orders ASAP. If you need anything, don't hesitate to wave me down!” She smiled one more time before turning and leaving towards the kitchen.

Alexandria watched her leave again. “She seems like a nice person,” she commented. “And she didn't seem to have been fazed by our mish-mash group either.”

“I think I could allow her in, if that's okay with you, my love,” Arela told Hikan.

The assassin blinked at the sudden suggestion before giving a little chuckle. “Where did that come from, Arie?” He asked in good humor. Arela blushed.

“I-I well, Starlight opened me up to the idea, s-s-so…” she explained.

Starlight blushed. “D-don't drag me into this!” She said hastily, holding her hands up. “That was totally just an observation.”

“H-Hey! Don't leave me with this!” Arela said. Hikan looked to each of them before giving a little laugh while Shell looked thoroughly confused.

“Oh, I can see it now,” Hikan said before taking on a joking stage voice. “'Hey, miss waitress, do you want to join me and my Devoted as a part of our herd? It'll be great and we have cookies!'” The hunter snickered a bit at his own joke.

“Well, I do like cookies,” Hikan's eyes shot open as he looked up to see Gaelle refilling Starlight's water glass, looking at him with a smirk and mischievous eyes.

“I-I-I-I-” Hikan stuttered out before Alexandria spoke up with a grin of her own, a hint of mischief in it.

“You did technically offer it to her out loud,” Alexandria started. “And she did technically accept the offer. I think it would be rude to not let her join us at this point.”

“I think it would be interesting, at least. Besides, another avian would be comforting,” Arela pointed out.

Hikan looked to each of them before his head sank down and hit the table. “How do I get myself into these things?” Came his muffled voice as he shook his head into the table. Alexandria tried to hold back a small snicker at his reaction… The key word being 'tried'. Starlight's eyes jerked towards the Yokai before her lips puffed out and she put her hand up to cover her mouth as a small giggle escaped her.

Gaelle smiled at the little group before putting down the unicorn's now full glass. “Thanks for the offer,” she said with a simple smile. “But I've got my own little family to take care of.” Her head jerked a little towards the kitchen. “That's your order. I'll be right back.” With that, she turned and started to walk back to the kitchen.

Arela sighed, but leaned further into Hikan. Hikan lifted his eyes, but left his chin on the table. “These things really do just keep happening,” he muttered.

“You know,” Alexandria said. “She does seem like such a nice person. I honestly wouldn't mind if she were to join us.”

Hikan looked up to watch the griffoness disappear around the corner. “She does seem to lighten the room,” he said before he leaned back and shook his head. “But you heard her. She's got her own family to worry about, and have you guys forgotten why we're here? Juno could attack at any moment and we can't stop to watch out for someone else. She'd just end up getting kill-” A loud crash from the front of the restaurant interrupted him before a feminine scream filled the air. Many of the restaurant's patrons jumped to their hooves and rushed to the front of the building.

“What the hell…?” Hikan muttered, Starlight and Shell already moving to leave the booth.

“I have a feeling that's our cue to do something…” Alexandria said, getting to her feet quickly.

“I was looking forward to trying that… Um, 'ravioli',” Shanghai said, her voice slightly disappointed. “But if someone's in trouble, then the best thing to do is help them.” Arela nodded, flying out of the restaurant to the front of the building. Starlight, Shell, Hikan and Alexandria joined her not long after and Starlight's eyes quickly widened alongside Shell's before the unicorn threw her eyes into Hikan's side, trying to make her forget what she'd seen. Alexandria stared, her eyes wide, unable to look away.

A bright blue pegasus mare with a soft green mane laid in the street, her body twisted, broken, and naked, blood pooling out from the dozens of stab wounds in her abdomen, but her face was the most nightmarish of all. Her eyes and ears had been removed and her mouth gaped, gasped, and choked as blood poured out from between her lips. The hunter stared at the scene before he and the others were pushed out of the way by a blue blur.

“Gentle Breeze!” Gaelle shouted, running forward before she knelt on her knees over the mare. Her hands hovered over the pegasus as tears welled up in her eyes. “Oh… what did they do to you…?”

The mare jerked her head a bit towards the presence before her lips started moving and unintelligible groans escaped her lips, weak and strained as they were. Gaelle broke. She let her tears fall and sobs started to wrack her body. “What happened…? Ge, who did this to you? Where's Garrick? Ge… where's my cub!?”

The mare stopped her groaning and coughed, black ooze spurting from her mouth before she laid still. Gaelle's eyes widened and she put her hands over her friend's shoulders. There was no movement for several moments before Gentle Breeze's arm began to move. It raised up before her fingers pressed into the pool of her own blood that had formed around her head. Her hand came back down, her clean palm brushing the ground until it felt a space big enough for what she needed… and began to write.

The griffoness' eyes stared as the message formed before her… until the pegasus' hand suddenly convulsed and rubbed one last line before lying still. Gaelle stared at the message before tears welled up in her eyes once more and she shook her head. “No…” she said quietly, her arms wrapping around her friend. “No. NonononoNOOOO!!!” The waitress' pained scream filled the air as she threw her head back and flared her wings before dropping her eyes to cry over the dead mare. Alexandria finally managed to tear her eyes away once her view was obstructed. She hesitantly looked at the scribbled message on the street. It read 'CHT' with an awkward arrow pointing down to the word 'Garrick'.

“…'CHT'…?” Alexandria said out loud in confusion. “Is that an acronym for something…?”

Hikan's eyes narrowed. “Shell,” he said sharply, jerking the disguised Changeling's gaze to him. “Scan the crowd for emotions that don't match the situation.”

The mare stared at him for a moment before she nodded her head and closed her eyes. Her ears swiveled and her eyes scrunched and relaxed for several moments before they flew open. “Down the alley, across the street,” she said, not looking in that direction. “There's a stallion watching. He seems… almost giddy.” She shivered at that. “And on the other side, at the edge of the crowd, there's another that feels… relieved. …They're starting to move away now.”

Hikan nodded his head. “Starlight,” he said quietly. “Use your staff and go after the one in the alley. Arela, follow the other one from the sky. It's important that neither of you are seen.”

The unicorn stared at him for a long moment before she wiped her eyes, hardened her gaze and nodded. She summoned a small portal and pulled out the Staff of Secrets before she disappeared completely from sight. Arela wiped her own tears and flew up, muttering, “Falis,” and disappearing as well. Hikan took a deep breath before he looked at Alexandria. “Alex… could you talk to Gaelle?” He asked. “I'm… not exactly gentle.”

Alexandria looked at Hikan for a moment. “S-Sure,” she said. She took a deep breath before she approached Gaelle. “Excuse me, Gaelle,” she said gently as she carefully put a hand on Gaelle's shoulder. The shaking griffoness suddenly stilled before she lifted her gaze, the feathers on her face soaked and eyes red.

“O-Oh, it's you,” she said, rubbing her eyes and standing up as the guards started to rush through the crowd. “Y-You're that girl from earlier… What… What do you want?” She wasn't being rude but she certainly wasn't doing well.

“This pegasus here,” Alexandria started, gesturing to the corpse. “It seems like she was a good friend of yours. Also…” Alexandria paused for a moment. “It seems like your child is missing. I can tell that you're really upset about it. Me and the rest of the group I'm with would be willing to help you, but… Only if you're willing to accept our help of course. We can't force it on you.”

Gaelle stared at her for a moment before giving an extremely shaky breath. “...I don't think anyone can help now,” she choked. “The only thing left is to… go back….”

Alexandria's brows furrowed a little in stubbornness. “It's never too late to try and get your kid back,” Alexandria said firmly. “If we know where to look, I'm sure we'll be able to do it. If you know where to start, then please tell me. I can't just ignore something like this.”

Gaelle looked at her for a moment before she took another breath. “...Not here…” she said quietly.

Alexandria's eyes narrowed a little. “What do you mean by that?” she asked. Before Gaelle answered though, Alexandria realized something and looked at the message on the street. “…Does it have something to do with this message?” Alexandria asked. “Maybe you know what 'CHT' means?”

Gaelle stayed quiet but she nodded her head. “Just… follow me,” she said before she started back towards the doors of the restaurant. Alexandria followed, giving Hikan and Shell a glance and a 'come on' gesture with her hand as she passed them. Hikan followed after them, nudging Shell gently to make sure she was with them.

The griffoness led them back inside and to the back of the restaurant, through the kitchen and into the storage room. She turned and looked at them before she let out a sigh, sinking down to sit on a box with her head in her hands. “What am I doing…?” She muttered quietly.

“Just relax,” Alexandria said, putting a hand on Gaelle's shoulder. “We're going to help you, alright? If you know what 'CHT' means, then you need to tell us. That'll make it easier for us to track down Garrick, I just know it will.”

The waitress turned her gaze up to the Yokai before she took a deep breath. “CHT stands for the Circle of the High Tower,” she started. “They're an organization that started in Canterlot's underground hundreds of years ago. They control just about every branch of crime in the city. Drugs, theft… prostitution…” She stopped and looked towards the ground. “They run the entire underworld…. Years ago, when I was young and desperate, I… approached them. At first, I just danced in a few clubs. Y'know, just sort of showed myself off for a few extra bits… but it didn't stop there. They… they approached me and told me to stand on a street corner. I… I didn't want to, but… it wasn't a request. I was forced to go out, night after night, and do… such horrible things… I eventually got another job that paid enough that I could quit, so… I just stopped showing up. They tried to contact me but I ignored the messages… and so they decided to be more… direct. One night, after work, I was kidnapped and they… they tied me to a bed in some warehouse somewhere. The Circle hired a local gang to watch over me for… Gods, I don't know how long… and they… they-” She stopped and looked towards the ceiling, trying to hold back her tears as she tried to gulp in air. “They… took turns on me… One after another, they raped and tortured me, always driving me just past the point of breaking before they stopped… I don't know how long they held me there, but it didn't stop until the warehouse was raided by the guards… The Circle didn't contact me after that but… They had achieved what they wanted… I got pregnant. Garrick was born, and for the longest time, I thought we were safe… but a few weeks ago, they sent another message.”

“They wanted Garrick… They said he was their creation, their property… They wanted me to give them what was rightfully theirs… but I refused. And now… now Gentle Breeze… They must have ambushed her while she was bringing him to me… Don't you see now?” She looked up at them with a desperate look. “I can't escape. The only thing I can do is go back to them and hope they have mercy on me and my little cub…”

Alexandria was silent for a few moments, a mixture of anger and determination on her face. “No,” she suddenly said firmly, getting a surprised look from Gaelle. “Hikan,” Alexandria continued without turning. “We're going to topple a criminal syndicate. And I refuse to change my mind. I'll do it myself if I have to. This is outrageous. I refuse to let this scum remain in Canterlot.”

“I wouldn't have it any other way,” the hunter answered, barely contained malice in his voice. “Starlight, what did you find?” He turned to look towards the cracked door before it opened and the unicorn shimmered back into existence.

“Aw, I thought I had you…” she muttered before her face turned serious. “I followed him for quite a few blocks before he got into a carriage and took off. I couldn't keep up with them after that.” Arela came in next, seeming to be holding back her own anger. It was obvious she had heard the news.

“I know the pain of rape well, Gaelle,” she said, wrapping an arm around the griffoness. She looked to Hikan. “The stallion I followed got into a carriage as well. However, I was able to keep up with it. It arrived at a dilapidated, two-story house alongside another carriage, presumably the one Starlight mentioned. The two stallions got out and were greeted by a dark gray stallion with a scar over his left eye that went down and through his lips. After that, the three went inside. Because I had already been gone so long, I decided to return and report my findings instead of following them inside.”

“Probably for the best,” Hikan said before looking to the others. “We go in and see what we can find. Our primary objective is Garrick, assume everyone else is hostile.”

“Wait,” Gaelle interrupted, drawing the hunter's gaze. “You actually plan on going in there and fighting the Circle? You're either stupid or have a death wish.”

“Pretty sure he does,” Starlight said with a shrug, drawing an annoyed look from Hikan. “Besides, we can take care of ourselves.” The griffoness gave her a look of disbelief before the assassin noticed and gave a chuckle.

“Trust us, Gaelle,” Hikan said. “This isn't our first rodeo.” To make his point, a whirring noise sounded out and the black and orange clawed gauntlets formed over his hands and forearms. Taking his cue, Starlight summoned her armor and sword, Cataclysm coming to peek out over her shoulder.

“The last thing you'd want to do is underestimate any one of us,” Alexandria added. She paused for a short moment before suddenly unleashing a two-Spellcard combo in order to prove her point.

Reverse Sign [Turn Over]

Bolt Sign [Lightning Strike]

Gaelle was caught off guard as the first Spellcard suspended her upside down before a lightning bolt shot from Alexandria's hand… and struck right next to Gaelle's head. After being given a couple moments, Gaelle was returned to the floor, right side up. Arela simply summoned her WarSuit and halberd, blinding everyone for a moment and making the griffon's eyes widen at the armor's size.

Gaelle blinked for a few seconds. “O-Okay, point made,” she muttered. “You… can you guarantee I'll get Garrick back safe…?”

Hikan gave a sad frown and looked to the floor. “I'm… sorry, Miss Gaelle,” he said quietly. “But… nothing is ever guaranteed in situations like this. I won't sugar coat it… I'm not good at it. We will go in, and we will get you answers… but I don't know what those answers will be…” Suddenly, Hikan was punched roughly across the face.

“Don't say that, dammit!” Alexandria shouted at him, extremely agitated. “The whole point of doing this is to get Garrick back! If we can't get the kid back safely, then everything we're about to do will have been pointless! I refuse to tolerate that!”

“Agreed. I won't allow a child to die,” Arela concurred.

Hikan put a hand to his face as he stumbled a bit. He rubbed the spot for a moment before he looked up at Alexandria. His eyes weren't angry, not violent or wrathful… but sad and knowing, showing years on years of horrible experience. “...Guys, you need to be just as ready as I'm trying to make her,” he said, nodding towards Gaelle. “His chances are extremely high but… we're going into unknown territory… I'm hopeful but… it's the truth.”

Alexandria remained silent, a defiant expression on her face. After several moments, she crossed her arms and turned to face the door of the storage room with a 'hmph'. Arela gave him a sad look, as well as Gaelle.

“I know war, and I know it well. Even if this isn't a full fledged one, I know how it works. They will use any edge they can. If it means killing innocents, they will do it. I have seen countless peoples fall to fire and brimstone, to becoming naught but slaves, whether for sex or otherwise,” Arela's look was full of fire and steel as she turned to Gaelle. “But I will do all in my power to save your child.”

“I won't accept any harm coming to that child,” Alexandria said darkly, not moving or turning an inch.

Hikan's gaze looked between each of them before he gave a sigh. “...Let's… get going,” he said, turning to exit the storage pantry. “It'd be best if we could fly. Starlight-”

“Yes, Hikan,” she said, coming up behind him and patting the back of his shoulder. “I can keep up.” She flashed him a reassuring smile. He hesitated a moment before he gave his own small smile.

“Let's get this show on the road,” he said before looking back and hardening his face. “And let's show these bastards a good time….” With that, he left the pantry and started on his way out of the restaurant.

Hikan knelt down on a rooftop three buildings down from the dilapidated two story that Arela had led them to. An orange visor covered his eyes as he scanned the building. “What's the situation?” The visor raised up and he looked behind him to Shell and Starlight, the unicorn tapping her finger on her sword blade after asking her question. Hikan turned back around and put his back to the small wall before answering.

“The building is just a cover,” he said. “There's an entire complex underneath it, spreading out underneath the buildings to either side and the street. Four rooms, the biggest being a storage room and the others housing several heat signatures. I count seven up in the house itself and I counted a total of forty-two on the lower levels. ...This isn't going to be fun.”

Alexandria spoke up suddenly, having been quiet the whole way there. “I was thinking on the way here,” she started. “I realized that, yes, several Yokai from Gensokyo appeared in Ponyville, but…” She paused for a moment and gave Hikan a look as she continued. “That's not to say that Ponyville is the only place they've appeared in. I'd recommend caution as we proceed. We have no idea who or what we might encounter. Who knows? It's not outside the realm of possibility that the Circle could have picked up a Gensokian whose skills happened to interest them.”

“If they have, then the threat level goes from being two to three, and not a low three either,” the hunter muttered, scratching his chin.

“Indeed, and there's something more going on. A child of Triyte is near. Not a blood relative, but a creation… I sense occult magic,” Arela said, shivering as she was next to Hikan.

“'A child of Triyte is near'…?” Alexandria repeated, somewhat confused. “What do you mean?”

“A Fallen Angel,” Arela replied with a quiet growl.

Hikan raised an eyebrow before he let his gaze fall towards the rooftop. “...Anywhere near our target zone?” He asked. Arela hummed in thought, wings glowing a little.

“...No, in some kind of dungeon, further below,” Arela informed.

Alexandria's eyes widened and her brows furrowed. “In a dungeon…!?” she said. “I'm not sure what a Fallen Angel is, and even though it sounds like it could be something unpleasant or even unfriendly… Putting anyone in a dungeon is wrong.” She then turned to the building. “I'm personally making it a secondary objective to free them.”

Hikan thought for a moment before he lifted his hand and rubbed his face. “This is quickly starting to become a level four mission…” he muttered. “Maybe even five…. Not something I wanted to drag you guys into on the first go around….”

“I'm sure we'll be fine, my love. This isn't my first battle or infiltration,” Arela assured, hand on Hikan's shoulder. The assassin looked to his Devoted with a worried look before he let out a relaxing breath.

“You're right,” he said calmly before going back into tactician mode. “Alright, first, we need to take down those seven guards and find a way down to the sublevel. Shell,” the undisguised Changeling looked up, “you're going to play the distraction.”

“Um…” the Changeling hummed, putting her index fingers together. “H-how would I do that?”

Hikan grinned. “Easy,” he answered. “Walk right on up and sway those hips a bit.”

Shell's face and fingers fell at that. “I, um…” she said hesitantly.

Alexandria was silent before speaking up hesitantly. “I mean… if it works, then…”

Hikan smiled at the Changeling. “You'll be just fine, Shell,” he said. “Because while you're outside, Starlight and Shanghai will infiltrate the top floor and take out the guards.”

The suggestion caught Alexandria by surprise and she seemed like she was about to protest… before she stopped to think about it. “…I guess that would be fine…” she said hesitantly. “I just hope it isn't so far away that Shanghai gets hurt. I'm still not sure how far she can go while retaining her pseudo-invincibility that comes from sharing my life force. There might not even be a limit, but still…”

“She still has that combat mode, right?” The hunter questioned.

“Yeah, but…” Alexandria answered. “You remember what it looked like, don't you? I'd think the Circle might try to capture her if they saw that. I can't say how successful they'd be, but I still wouldn't want to take my chances.”

“Just checking,” Hikan reassured. “Just in case they get into a tight spot.” He looked towards Starlight and Shell. “No mercy. None at all. These guys are killers. Murderers. We take them out, all of them.” The unicorn stared for a moment before her eyes narrowed.

“Right,” she answered, her voice taking on a darker tone as she drew her sword off her lap. Shell simply nodded her head.

“I'm not sure how comfortable I am with Shanghai potentially… killing people, but…” Alexandria said slowly before steeling her gaze. “In a situation like this, I guess I have to be ready for extreme measures.”

Hikan looked to her before giving them a sympathetic look. “I'm sorry, Alex,” he said. “I know you're a pacifist… but this isn't a game. These guys won't give us a second chance or hesitate, so neither can we…”

Alexandria was silent for several seconds. “…I know,” she finally said. “Alright Shanghai, you heard everything Hikan said, right?” Shanghai nodded. “Then go with Starlight. Don't show any mercy, but save your HDD as a last resort, okay?”

“Okay,” Shanghai answered, drawing her broadsword.

Starlight got to her hooves as a portal ran over her sword, exchanging it for her staff. “Let's get going,” she said, holding a hand out and helping Shell up as she took on her mare form. With the Changeling disguised the mare activated her magic and her body started to disappear starting at her hooves.

“Um, hang on…!” Shanghai said quickly, causing Starlight to stop, returning to being completely visible.

“What's wrong?” Starlight asked Shanghai, a little confused.

“Um…” Shanghai hummed. “If you go invisible, then I'd lose you and wouldn't be able to follow you. I don't think that would be a good thing.”

Starlight was quiet for a moment. “Maybe if you hold on to me, I can get us in close,” she suggested.

“Okay,” Shanghai answered. “That would make it easy. If I'm holding you, then there's no way I'd lose track of you.” Shanghai then grabbed onto Starlight's shoulder in the same way that she does with Alexandria.

“Alright,” Starlight said before her horn lit up again. “Let's do this.” her body slowly faded away and disappeared completely. It looked like Shanghai was grasping the air itself. The doll suddenly vanished and Shell blinked.

“I-I guess that's my cue…” she said before going to the edge of the building, wings flaring into being in green flames before she jumped over the barrier and floated gently to the ground in an alleyway. The Changeling smoothed out her clothing for a moment before she walked out of the alley and started towards the hideout, adding a sway to her hips.

Meanwhile, on the roof of the house just beside the two story house, the sound of crunching gravel suddenly stopped. “Okay, Shanghai,” Starlight's voice whispered. “You ready?”

“Um…” Shanghai's voice answered quietly. “Don't you think we should have some sort of plan? Like, I don't think we should just run in and do whatever…”

“Agreed, what do you suggest?” The invisible unicorn asked.

“Ummm…” Shanghai hummed. She was silent for several moments. “I don't know. I'm not getting any ideas.”

Starlight was quiet for a moment before she spoke up again. “Why don't you go in and hit first, then I'll follow and take the rest?” At this point, Shell had reached the front of the building and the sound of a squeaking door sounded out from the street level. “Whatever we do, we better do it quick.”

“Okay,” Shanghai said. “I'll do something that you can follow up on.” She then became visible as she let go of Starlight's shoulder and then went over to the closest window and slipped inside.

Inside, she found that somehow none of the guards were looking in her direction. She went to the nearest one and tapped his shoulder. The stallion turned quickly and hefted the crossbow in his hands… only to stop and blink at the doll. “What in Tartarus?” He questioned out loud, drawing the attention of the other four in the room who were staring out the window.

“What're you- What the buck is that?” One of them said, turning to look at the stallion and doll. The five stallions all came to stand in a circle in front of the doll, some fidgeting with their weapons. Shanghai looked at the circle of guards, her hand at her mouth, trying to think of what to do next.

They all stared at her for a long while before one, a dark brown unicorn shook his head and raised his crossbow, aiming it directly at Shanghai. “Enough of this shit,” he said, his finger starting to squeeze the trigger. Shanghai noticed this and started panicking, but wasn't sure what to do. Ultimately, she didn't move and the bolt landed a direct hit.

“Oof,” Shanghai uttered, recoiling as the bolt slammed into her stomach before dropping to the floor. “That was really rude,” Shanghai scolded the guard with her brow furrowed. She was completely unscathed. They all stared wide eyed before they lifted their crossbows as well.

“What in Tartarus is this damn thing!?” One of them asked, panic rising in his voice.

“Someone get a hold of the boss!” Another said. A third, a red unicorn, lit up his horn, preparing to cast some sort of spell.

“I'm a Fairy,” Shanghai said, answering the panicking one. “But you're all starting to be troublesome, so why don't you all just stop!?”

Shanghai [Perfect Freeze]

Suddenly, Shanghai used her very own Spellcard. It was the ability she'd inherited from Cirno. Without warning, all of the guards, being grouped together in one spot, were frozen in one, big block of ice.

The air behind the stallions shimmered and Starlight flickered back into existence. “Wow,” she muttered before a couple of thuds sounded out from downstairs. Her gaze shifted towards the window for a second before she nodded towards the door in the room. “Come on, let's get to the others.” Shanghai nodded and then opened the door Starlight had nodded towards, going to leave the room.

As the Fairy left the room, Starlight started to follow her only to hesitate for a moment. She looked back to the frozen guards, a halting look in her eyes. After a moment, they hardened and she lifted her sword and ignited her horn, the blade following suit. She swung it out and five bolts of energy shot from her weapon, piercing through each of their chests where there hearts should be. She lowered the sword and let her magic die down before following after the Fairy.

Downstairs, they found Hikan dragging the body of a stallion inside, bringing it to a stop next to another, both with holes in their heads. Shell stood to the side, undisguised once more while Alexandria stood just inside the front door, a little off to the side. Arela was by one of the other doorways, in her shining golden armor and with her halberd equipped. She was checking to see if any more thugs were coming in. Shanghai rushed over to Alexandria giddily.

“Hehe, guess what Alexandria?” she asked, clearly excited. She then continued without waiting for an answer. “I beat up all the guards upstairs all on my own!”

“Really?” Alexandria answered. “Well, good for you. That's really impressive.” Shanghai's smile was absolutely beaming. Starlight's eyes looked to the little Fairy, but she quickly looked away, going to stand next to Hikan as he closed the front door.

“Did she take care of it?” Hikan asked, his normally warm tone gone and replaced by the voice of the assassin.

Starlight only nodded her head. “Y-Yeah, she got'em,” the unicorn said, drawing the hunter's eyes to her. He took one look over her then glanced at Shanghai, before he turned back and nodded his head in understanding. His gaze jerked away from her and down the hall.

“Okay, guys,” he said, drawing everyone's attention. “This is where things get dicey. From here on out, no more stealth. We get in, we hit hard, we get out. That's the plan. Any questions?”

“Just one,” Alexandria said from the front door. “What's our first target? Garrick, or the Fallen Angel?”

Hikan's visor reformed in response and he looked towards the floor. “...I think the cub is in one of the back rooms on the first sublevel,” he muttered. “At least, that's where the smallest heat signature seems to be tied up. If I'm reading this right, there's a ton of magical energy being dispersed around down there and every line leads back to another heat source farther down on a second level, albeit it's just the one room.” He looked back up after the analysis, the visor lifting up. “The cub's closer than the Fallen Angel, but there's a hell of a lot more guards between us and Garrick.” He stopped and looked around to each of them.

“Wait,” Alexandria suddenly said, her brows furrowing. “You said that there's a bunch of magical energy being fed from the Fallen Angel through lines all over the complex, right?” Hikan nodded. Alexandria's eyes widened. “A generator…” she whispered. Then her brows furrowed even further. “They're using the Fallen Angel as a damn magic generator…!”

“That's… That's despicable! A filthy tila they may be, but being used as a living battery…” Arela growled.

Hikan looked towards Starlight and Shell, and the unicorn did not look happy. “I think we may have to split up for this one,” Starlight said. “As much as I hate to say it, that seems like the best option.” she looked at Arela, Alexandria, and Shanghai. “If you three go after the Fallen Angel, the rest of us should be able to grab Garrick.”

Alexandria looked at Arela. “Alright,” she said. “Sounds like a solid plan to me.” Arela nodded.

“It shall be done, my love,” she said resolutely.

Hikan looked at each of them in turn before his armor whirred to life onto his arms. “Then let's do this,” he said before starting down the hallway until he stood in front of the wooden door under the stairs. Pulling it open revealed an elevator on the other side. He looked to the group and perked an eyebrow. “Who wants to go first?”

“I think you guys should go first,” Alexandria said. “Your elevator ride will be shorter, and you'll still have to navigate to Garrick's room after that. We just have to ride the elevator down to a floor which is just a single room. Doing it that way should maximize efficiency.”

Hikan nodded before looking at Shell and Starlight. “Let's go, then,” he said before stepping into the elevator. Starlight nodded her head and started forward, Shell right behind her as they entered the elevator. Hikan closed the door and a soft rumbling sound filled the air.

Hikan reached behind his back and pulled his tristaff from his belt, twisting his wrist and making the three pieces click together before he unsheathed his survival knife and started to screw it into place at the top. “Shell,” he said, drawing the Changeling's attention before he tossed the spear into her hands. “Remind me that we really need to get you a weapon when we get out of this.”

The Changeling looked at him before nodding and looking in front of her, waiting for the door to open once again. Slowly, a concerned look spread over the insectoids face. “Will Lady Arela really be okay?” She asked, looking up at the man.

“They'll be fine,” he reassured, giving her a quick smile before looking back to the door with an angry look. “But we need to worry about ourselves for the time being.” The elevator started to slow down and he stepped forward, extending his arm wings and wrapping his main wings around his body. “You guys get behind me. When the doors open, we charge and give them all the hell we can. We've got to buy the others some time and get Garrick out of here.”

The mares each took a step behind him, the motions being all the hunter needed to know. “Let's give'em hell,” Starlight said darkly, Cataclysm coming over her shoulder and starting to growl as his blood red eyes sparked. Shell's head tilted forward and her entire demeanor changed just before the elevator clicked to a stop, a ding sounding out.

The door opened and several stallions turned in surprise only to be cleaved in two as the orange wrapped warmachine rushed forward. Blood splattered into the air as more guards turned their eyes towards the elevator only for many of them to take their final breaths as the group continued their mad dash into the room, Starlight and Shell taking out their fair share of goons.

The group came to a stop in the middle of the storage area, Hikan's wings flaring out, Starlight's magic glow surrounding her horn and sword, Cataclysm jumping from her back as he showed off his ability to increase his size, and Shell twirled Hikan's spear expertly, green flames streaming from either end of it.

“What in Tartartus is going on out here!?” A voice shouted out, a door slamming somewhere near the back of the complex. “Seriously! I can't even sample our products without you idiots causing some sort of commotion!” A dark gray earth stallion came out from behind a stack of crates, his right eye opening a bit wider at the sight of the group. The other eye seemed to be hindered by a rather ragged scar that started at his jawline, went over his lips and disappeared somewhere under his white and black fedora. Hikan's sharp eye scanned him quickly, and he tensed up, not liking what he saw. The stallion was wearing a white dress coat with black slacks and shirt. A blood red ascot hung from his neck, matching the three vertical stripes on the black band of his hat. And his body language said he wasn't fazed at all.

“Who in Tartarus are you supposed to be?” The stallion questioned, stepping forward a few steps. His eyes scanned the group for a moment before he huffed. “Let me guess, that bitch Gaelle hired you to get her kid back.”

“Actually,” Hikan said, straightening up, his claws clicking against one another. “We're doing this for free. Must be your lucky day.”

The stallion chuckled darkly at that. “It sure is,” he said. “I get paid double a month's salary to kidnap a whore's cub, get to torture that sweet little babysitter of his, and finally, you bring me a new weapon, a trophy head, and two more bitches to sell.” He looked up at Hikan with eyes that pulsed with killing intent. “I'd say this has been a damn lucky day.”

Hikan clenched his teeth together before lowering down into a fighting stance. “I'm so going to make you eat those words,” the hunter growled, the others tensing up.

The stallion smirked as his hands reached into his pockets. “I'd like to see you try, kid,” he answered, pulling out and putting on a couple of brass knuckles. “Before they drag your asses through Canterlot, I'm going to carve the name 'Coal Swindle' into your chests!”

“Kill these bastards!” Hikan shouted, his orange visor shooting down before he rushed forward. Starlight, Shell, and Cataclysm followed suit, each rushing at another side of the warehouse.

Starlight was the first to act, her sword flashing through the air as crossbow bolts rushed at her. Her blade cut through several of the bolts while others shattered against a magic barrier. The firing stopped and the stallions stared at her in shock. Starlight smirked and rushed forward, jerking them back into action, some trying reload while others dropped the useless weapons and pulled melee weapons out. The unicorn suddenly disappeared in a flash and while the goons flailed their eyes about to find her, a scream filled the air before being cut short. They all turned to find one of them falling to the ground, a gaping hole in his chest and his head rolling through the air, blood trailing as the unicorn spun through the air, dead, narrowed eyes leveled at them.

The ponies gasped and took a step back, those keeping their crossbows hefting and firing their weapons quickly. The mare's hooves hit the crate behind her and she pushed off, lunging towards them, slashing the bolts out of the air. An earth pony with a hammer rushed to meet her, swinging his hammer only to be stopped as Starlight flipped her hooves over her head and planted them firmly against the haft of the weapon. She pushed off of it, launching herself into the air and dropping back down with a pulse of magic, coming back down to skewer the stallion to the floor.

A click caught her ear and she quickly raised her hand, swiping it through the air and rocketing six lances of magic into a crossbow wielder, the magic dragging him back and slamming him into a crate, the magic piercing through his shoulders, hips, and chest. He stayed upright for a few seconds before slumping to the ground with a thud.

Across the room, Hikan rushed Coal Swindle, the stallion jumping back as his minions ran forward to cover him. Two rushed the assassin, one drawing his sword as the other lit up its horn and hands. The sword wielder reached the man first and swung out… only to pause as his blade fell to the ground with a clank. He barely had time to lift the broken hilt of his weapon before his field of vision started to widen. Two halves of the stallion to either side, blood spewing forth like a fountain as Hikan rushed through him. The mage's eyes widened and he threw his hands forward, balls of magical energy launching at the man. Hikan wrapped his back wings around his torso, tanking the hits easily before leaping forth and spinning with his wing scythes held out. The orange sails cut through the stallion multiple times before the hunter and corpse hit the floor. Coal Swindle stared in disgust as his men tried not to retch. “What are you?” The boss questioned with a voice full of fear. Hikan's visor leveled at him as he straightened up and started to walk forward again. “A sinner,” was the man's only answer, a monstrous growl seeming to follow the words out of his throat before he rushed the terrified group, a red shine glowing from behind his visor.

As Starlight continued to fight, one of her opponents got a kick in on her chest, forcing her to skid back. She fell to her knees as she tried to catch her breath. She looked up and suddenly everything became a blur. The stallion that had kicked her held a spear poised over her before a growl jerked his gaze behind her and a black and white blur rushed over her head. The pony only had time to scream in fear as Cataclysm forced him to the ground. The Nil Dragon lunged forward with his jaws, chomping down on the stallion's face and throat several times before the demon got a hold of his throat properly. With a sudden and vicious jerk of his head, a sickening pop filled the air and the stallion ceased all movement. Cataclysm opened his jaws and let the head fall to the ground before he lifted his burning red gaze to meet the rest of the group. The Nil Dragon let out a feral growl as Starlight stepped up next to him and the charged the crowd together.

Shell twisted through her own opponents like a whirlwind, busting through them with ease, though most of them managed to dodge out of the way with only minor injuries. However, three of the ponies weren't so lucky. A pair of pegasi rushed her with clubs, one swinging at her legs and the other at her head. Just when it looked like the Changeling had no chance of dodging, Shell dropped her knees, bending before she shot through the air, her body slipping right through the gap between the bat-like clubs. Each one felt a tap on their backs as the insectoid jumped past them, each throwing the other a confused look. Shell hit the ground with her shoulder and rolled to her hooves, twisting her body so that she faced the two. She let the spear fall from her hands before she crossed them over her chest and to her shoulders, palms out as flames leapt to life in them.

She uncrossed her arms, throwing the flames from her hands at the pair, the spell circles on their backs suddenly flaring before the flaming lances pierced their centers, the stallions screaming out in pain as the bolts exploded through the other side. Shell's eyes narrowed and she closed the thumb and ring and little fingers of her hands before seeming to jerk them through the air. The bolts of flame followed her movements entering and exiting the pegasi multiple times until the two looked more like empty space than ponies. The stallions fell to the ground as the flames died and Shell let her eyes go to the group of shell shocked goons. With a deft movement, she kicked the spear back into her hand as she stalked forward, twin orbs of flame flaring behind her shoulders.

Hikan dropped to his knee, letting an axe sail over over his head before he jumped back up, his left hand grabbing the unicorn's chin and throat and lifting him off the ground. His right hand flashed forward, claws sinking into the stallion's chest again and again until he stopped moving. Hikan held the dripping corpse for a moment before dropping it to the floor. He turned to face Coal Swindle, who had somehow gotten behind him. The stallion had a gash on his forehead, his hat missing and letting his messy grey and black mane hang into his eyes as he watched the monster walk towards him with bloody claws and wings, the field of carnage behind him the testimony to his savagery.

Coal clenched his teeth and raised his brass fists. “Come on, then!” He shouted, standing his ground. “You don't scare me- GAK!!!” The earth pony looked down at his belly, watching as his intestines started to slip through four slash marks, blood already pooling at his hooves. The stallion stared in shock before a dead smirk crossed his face. “Ya couldn't at least let me die with my hat o-” He was cut off once more as a ripping sound filled the air and something tugged on his chest. His eyes widened at the sudden black scaled arm protruding from his chest. He slowly raised his eyes to see the fist of the assassin holding onto his now red stained and dripping fedora. Coal's eyes widened before he shuddered and fell limp.

Hikan lifted the corpse a bit before viciously throwing his arm to the side, the body sliding off his arm to tumble across the ground. With a jerk of his hand, he dropped the hat and started to walk back where he and the others had started, stepping over the mangled corpses of his opponents without blinking. He stopped at the center of the crates, the others meeting him not long after. “Targets?” He questioned, looking towards each of them.

“Eliminated,” both Shell and Starlight answered, Cataclysm shrinking down and jumping up onto the unicorn's shoulder.

Hikan nodded before he turned and started towards the back of the complex. “Good, now, let's do what we came here to do.” The pair nodded and followed him to the back where they found three doors. The hunter looked towards the left door and inclined his head towards it. “Starlight, get the mares and get them out of here,” he turned to look at Shell as Starlight moved to do as she was ordered. “Stay here and make sure we don't get any surprises thrown at us.”

Shell nodded. “Yes, sir,” she said diligently. Hikan gave her a small smile before turning and going towards the door, only to stop and look at a blood red banner that hung off the wall. A simple brown circle took up the center with four diamond shapes taking each corner, each a different colour, blue, green, gold, and white. Hikan tilted his head for a moment before lifting his clawed hand and casually slicing out a length of cloth. “This should do,” he muttered before starting forward again.

Before he could reach the door however, the right-hand door - which had a sign that read 'Do not enter. Exit only for generator room emergency staircase.' - burst open and a human-looking woman with short brown hair and long pigtails came rushing out. She had an absolutely terrified expression on her face as she glanced behind herself as the door swung open… Before she slammed right into Hikan due to not watching where she was running.

Hikan looked down at her and blinked. “...What?”

Her very wide eyes snapped to Hikan. It took her only a split second to register all the blood covering him. She instantly froze up, her fear-filled expression plastered on her face.

Hikan looked over her and, noticing a lack of chains or signs of abuse, his eyes narrowed dangerously. “Talk quickly,” he growled out, his claws clicking against each other as he turned his body towards her.

She almost screamed as she brought her arms over her head to cower under them. “P-Please don't kill me!” she said quickly, almost hysterical. “I-I'm only human! I-I just wanted to research building tanks! That's it!”

Hikan's eyes stared at her for a moment before his clawed hand clenched into a fist. “You had better run while you can,” he said in a low tone. “If you're still here when I walk back out, you will die.” Without hesitating for even a moment, the woman bolted away in the direction of the elevator. The assassin watched her go before he let out a breath. “I must be getting soft in my old age…” he muttered before he turned back and turned the knob in front of him, entering the room.

He closed the door behind him and the room was plunged into darkness, a small whimpering the only thing to stimulate his senses. He turned his head before his visor switched modes and the sound of a sonic wave echoed out. The white outline of a light switch shimmered into life on his visor and he lifted a hand. Flipping the switch flared the fluorescent lighting to life. His visor went back to its normal setting and he turned his eyes to see one of the last things he expected. A young hippogriff sat tied to a chair in the center of the room, a gag tied around his head and in his beak, his bright violet eyes staring at him. To be fair, he looked a lot like Gaelle, especially when it came to his blue feather head and wings, but a quick glance down revealed hooves that started black but started fading to white further up.

The young “cub”, he was going to have to do some thinking on that later, stared at him with fear ladened eyes and the hybrid only started to struggle when Hikan stepped forward. “Garrick, calm down,” the hunter said, holding a hand forward, palm towards the ground as the hippogriff stopped and went back to staring at him. “Your name is Garrick, right?”

For a moment, there was no response before the cub nodded his head. Hikan gave the best gentle smile he could before letting the armor on his left arm and face retract with a whirring sound. “My name's Hikan. Your mom sent me here to get you.” Garrick stared at him, his eyes full of disbelief. Hikan sighed a bit, giving a bit of a disheartened frown. “You're just going to have to trust me on this. Now, hold very still….” The hippogriff's eyes widened as the man suddenly hooked a claw under the gag and yanked sharply, the fibers of the cloth severing easily. Hikan took hold of one end and gently unwrapped it from the hybrid's head, Garrick coughing a few times to get air moving properly through his airways again. “Better?”

Garrick looked up at him before nodding his head. “Y-yeah…” he said softly, drawing a small smile from Hikan.

“Good,” he said gently before straightening up. “Now let's get you out of here.” With that he rounded the chair and severed the bonds holding his black talons to the chair before doing the same for his hooves. Garrick stood up and rubbed his wrists, getting the blood flowing through them as he stretched his wings. The hunter waited patiently for him until the cub looked up at him.

“Let's go,” the assassin said, holding out a hand as the armor retracted, the hybrid taking it after a moment's hesitation. Together they started to walk towards the door, only stopping when Hikan held the cloth out to Garrick. “You may not want to see this…”

The cub looked between him and the blindfold before stopping to look up at him. “I… think I'd rather just close my eyes,” Garrick said slowly, receiving a nod from the man. The hippogriff squeezed his eyes shut and Hikan lifted his gaze to the door, opening it and walking through. Shell and Starlight were waiting on the other side.

Shell looked over Garrick, a sad look coming over her face before she took on her disguised form. “You poor thing…” she said quietly before looking at Hikan. He only shared the melancholy look with her before giving a sigh.

“C'mon, let's get him out of here,” he said before he started to lead the cub out of the warehouse, maneuvering him expertly around the numerous bodies lying on the ground. They reached the elevator and Hikan pressed the 'up' button. Not long after, the doors opened and they all stepped in. The group turned and each of them got one last look at the bloody carnage they had wreaked on the bunker before the doors closed and took them to the ground floor. When the doors opened, the hunter led the young hippogriff out of the house, avoiding the last two bodies before slipping outside to find Alexandria and Arela sitting down with another woman wrapped in some sort of canvas.

“You can open your eyes now,” Hikan said to the hybrid, the cub's eyes blinking open to be greeted by the moonlight. Alexandria remained motionless, her head still down, continuing to obscure her face. Arela smiled at the cub, who's eyes were wide as he looked to her large and golden wings.

“Hello, tylin,” she greeted warmly.

Garrick stared at her with a look of dumbstruck wonder before his beak started working again. “You're… you're an angel, aren't you…?” The young hippogriff questioned, the awe in his voice unmistakable. Arela giggled and nodded.

“A High Angel, at that,” Arela said with a smile.

Garrick smiled at her for a moment before looking at Hikan. “Does… does that make you a demon?” Hikan's soft smile fell at that. Arela shook her head.

“Nay, tylin. He is a…” she thought about it for a moment. “...Dragon Warrior.”

“Oh…” the cub said, looking at the hunter. “Sorry….”

Hikan sighed but waved his hand. “No worries, kid,” he said gently. “I've been called worse.”

Arela smiled, ruffling the cub's hair. “We'll be seeing your mother in no time, tylin.” Garrick groaned a bit, but had a little smile on his face all the same. Arela looked around. “Is everyone ready to get out of this dump, then?” With the exception of Alexandria, who remained motionless still, everyone nodded. After several moments, Shanghai suddenly let go of Alexandria's shoulder with a startled 'Ah…!?' and backed away from her a bit, an extremely worried expression on her face.

Hikan's attention snapped to the pair. “Shangahi? Alex?” He asked, turning towards them. “You guys okay?”

Alexandria remained silent. “Ah, um…” Shanghai stuttered while wringing her hands a little, clearly distraught over something. “Alexandria's mind started to feel all weird suddenly.”

Hikan raised an eyebrow before he started to step forward. Kneeling down, he put a hand on Alexandria's shoulder. “Hey… you doing okay?” He asked, a worried tone sinking into his voice.

After a few moments of silence, Alexandria finally spoke. “…Awww, you're worried about me?” she said. Her tone was… Incredibly mocking.

Hikan's eyes narrowed and he stood to his feet. “Yeah,” he said shortly, suspicion in his voice. “Why wouldn't I be?”

“Ooooh, I don't know…” Alexandria answered, still in a mocking tone. “Maybe because…” she then lifted her head to look Hikan straight in the eye. She had a dangerously mischievous twinkle in her eye and a massive, shit-eating grin on her face. “…All the women you care about seem to end up dead?” she finished as she stood up.

Hikan's eyes widened and he stepped back. After a moment, his eyes narrowed. “Measure your next words very carefully, Alex,” he said in a low tone.

“Just think about it,” Alexandria said. “It's true, isn't it? Can you remember any women that you've cared about that are still alive?”

“Alexandria-” Arela made to say.

“Maybe you're next?” Alexandria said to Arela, cutting her off. Alexandria began to casually inspect her nails as she continued. “If you think about the trend, it's a certainty that you'll die prematurely… And it's all because lover-boy fell in love with you.”

“That's enough, Alex,” Hikan growled, stepping forward as his eyes hardened in the sign that the actual Hikan was coming forward. “I don't know what you had to do or see down there, but whatever it was does not, and will never give you the right to bring up things like this.”

Alexandria's dangerous grin widened. “Who knows?” she started. “Maybe your little angel will die today? Maybe even…” Alexandria suddenly rushed behind Arela, grabbing both her arms and pulling them behind and up, preventing Arela from being able to do anything. All this happened impossibly fast, her speed surprising everyone present. “…Right now.”

Hikan was in front of Arela in the next instant, his arms wrapping around her as his wing blades formed and pressed against Alexandria's throat. “…Let go…” he said, his murderous intent so clear that any doubt in the air shriveled up and died.

Alexandria seemed completely unfazed. If anything, her grin widened and her eyes seemed to sparkle a little. “Ah, the rage and hatred filling your voice…” she said. “It's music to my ears.” As she finished speaking, she released Arela.

Hikan dropped his blades and put his hands on Arela's shoulders. “Star, Shell,” he barked, the two mares rushing Alexandria to stand behind and in front of her. He let his gaze go back to his Devoted. “Are you okay?” He asked, voice shaky. She nodded numbly.

“Y-Yes, I'm fine,” she affirmed. He let out a heavy sigh and hugged her tight.

Alexandria laughed darkly. “Are you maybe naive or something?” she asked. “I don't necessarily need to be close to someone if I want to kill them.”

Reverse Sign [Turn Over]

Suddenly, Hikan found himself between Starlight and Shell, Alexandria standing next to Arela, lightning sparking from her hands. Their positions had been flipped. Hikan's eyes widened in surprise. “Alex, stop!” He shouted, stepping away from Shell and Starlight. “I don't know what you're playing at, but stop it, right now!”

Alexandria's grin widened greatly to show off her teeth. “Make me,” she challenged. Hikan stepped forward, reaching her in what seemed like two steps.

“You do not want to do this, Alexandria,” he said darkly.

“Maybe I do,” Alexandria answered a little teasingly. “How do you know what I do and don't want to do? Maybe I'll just keep trying to kill your little angel until you kill me instead? That sounds like it could be kind of fun.”

“No, it doesn't,” Hikan said quietly. “Dying is not something you want to do, and I don't make a habit of killing my friends. Now, cut. This. Out.”

“I see,” Alexandria said. “So the reason why it's so hard to frustrate you is because you see us as friends? Alright then, if that's the case…” she then glanced over to Shanghai, who was somewhere behind Hikan. “Shanghai, could you be a dear and stab Hikan in the back?”

“N-No!” Shanghai shouted, causing Alexandria's expression to falter for only a split second. “You're suddenly acting all weird! Please, snap out of it!”

Alexandria paused for a moment. “Fine,” she said, shrugging. “I'll just do it myself.” With that, she then jumped into the air, quickly flying behind Hikan before firing a bolt of lightning towards his back. Dorkifu revved to life, and he turned, throwing up his arm-wing, tanking the lightning bolt with the glowing orange sail before he jumped after her, his back wings flaring. “Arie, you and the others get Garrick back to his mother!” He shouted as he flew at Alexandria.

Arela stared for a bit, before quickly grabbing the other Angel and taking Garrick's hand. “Come on!” she cried, rushing down the streets. Starlight and Shell ran after her, Starlight throwing a look over her shoulder as Hikan reached Alexandria.

The assassin blinked out of sight before appearing over Alexandria, twisting his body to bring his leg down in an axe kick.

Despite the suddenness and swiftness of the attack, Alexandria still managed to completely avoid it. “Too slow!” she taunted as she retaliated with a tightly compacted pattern of small sparks. Hikan drew his arm wings together and let the bullets slam into him, grunting a bit as they detonated. He threw his arms apart before boosters formed on his back and launched him forward, his fist reared back.

Alexandria simply faked a yawn as she moved to the side, avoiding the punch. “Are you even trying?” she asked, her tone almost genuinely incredulous… Almost. The man came to a stop and swung around, his leg coming up to shoot towards the side of her head. She simply ducked under the kick before retaliating instantaneously with a lightning bolt to Hikan's stomach and a shout. “Stupid!”

The assassin was pushed back from the blow, his abdomen smoking as burn holes sizzled. And he looked up with a smirk. “Only if I was fighting alone.” A buzzing sounded out next to her and a bright flash and a concussive blast went off next to her head. Alexandria's eyes widened as she tried to quickly move away from the noise… Only to be partially successful as the blast clipped her head and her vision blurred from the force of impact.

“Finally getting serious, are we?” she said after a few moments, shaking her head as her vision cleared. “Good.”

Thunderous Sign [Thunderbolts]

Suddenly, many lightning bolts began to rapidly strike random locations in a 25-meter radius around Hikan. “…Now I can too,” Alexandria said with a smirk. Hikan let his visor form before he started dodging the bolts, his HUD brightening in red the closer the lightning got to him.

“This is ridiculous,” he muttered before his other three wisps formed. “Take her.” The four wisps buzzed around her, keeping just out of her reach before one of them rushed her face and the others kept her mostly contained. Alexandria did a stationary midair backflip to avoid the rushing wisp.

“Are you trying to make things difficult?” Alexandria asked Hikan mockingly. “I do love a good challenge.” Alexandria then started adding a ton of sparks into the mix for Hikan to dodge as she continued to effortlessly dodge each time a wisp charged her.

Hikan rushed out of the way, raising his wing-blade to tank whatever he couldn't dodge, wisps suddenly rushing at her much faster from every angle. The moment one passed or glanced off of her, another would zoom after her.

“What pests,” Alexandria said, unable to continue shooting sparks. “Don't you understand the concept of personal space?”

Repulsion Sign [Push Away]

Suddenly, the wisps were very forcefully repelled away from Alexandria by some unseen force. “Finally, I can breathe,” Alexandria said jokingly as she resumed her assault of sparks, the lightning bolts from before still striking around Hikan.

Hikan let out a growl before he looked up, one eye turning orange. “I've had enough of this,” he muttered before his back wings formed a shield over him. “Trump Card; Dragon's Rule.” Dorkifu whirred to life like never before, his wisps suddenly disappearing in dust as burning orange lines started to dart over his form. Black armor started to pour over his body like waves until it covered his body completely. Two amber orbs burned on his chest plate as twin cannons formed on either side of the growing wisp extensions on his wrist. Claw-like armor formed over his boots, vicious armor going up his leg to form into spikes that jutted out and away from his knees. Boosters formed on his back as more cannons took shape on the arcs of his wings, the last wisp extensions forming on his shoulders. A draconic helm formed over his head before his orange visor materialized and slammed down over the helmet's red eyes.

“Fancy~” Alexandria said mockingly. “Where'd you buy it? I think I-” Hikan's clawed gauntlet suddenly wrapped around her face and shoved her back. Boosters fired as the hunter dragged her back and slammed her into a wall, Alexandria barely even having time to register what was happening as the brick wall cracked from the force of impact.

“AAAAAHHHH!!” Shanghai suddenly screamed as the impact was made, dropping towards the ground like a rock a moment later. At the same time, Alexandria went limp in Hikan's hand. The assassin's visor turned to see the doll fall towards the ground. With a blur of movement, he appeared under Shanghai and caught her before she hit the ground.

Shanghai struggled weakly to get up in his palm. “D-Don't…” she mumbled weakly, her voice quiet and very strained. “…Hurt… A-Alex-… andria…”

For a moment, the draconic mask showed no sign of life before it jerked up towards Alexandria. “Shit, the link,” he said in realization. The visor lifted before the face plate split into six and slid back to reveal Hikan's face. “Shanghai, I'm not going to- I didn't mean- damn it, I'm sorry…”

“G-Gotta… Protect… A-… Alex…” Shanghai mumbled weakly, either completely ignoring Hikan's words or just not hearing them. Hikan looked sadly down at the doll before he sighed and turned, walking back towards Alexandria's unconscious body.

“Hold it right there villain!” a very familiar voice shouted from behind Hikan. “Without turnin' around, gently place the Fairy on the ground!”

Hikan gave a loud sigh. “What now…?” He muttered quietly before he slowly lowered to the ground and placed Shanghai down next to Alexandria softly. Shanghai then gripped Alexandria's dress tightly before also losing consciousness. Hikan then straightened up. “So what next? You want me to put my hands on my head and get on my knees? Because if not, I've got to get these two somewhere safe.”

“Yeah, so you can kill 'em I'm sure!” the voice responded. “Now put your hands up in the air where I can see them and slowly back away from the Yokai!”

“This is ridiculous…” the man muttered before raising his hands and starting to back away.

“Now turn around slowly!” the voice shouted at him once he was a good eight feet away from Alexandria. “And don't try anythin' funny!”

“If I was going to do anything, I'da done it by now!” Hikan shouted over his shoulder before turning around. What he saw behind him was exactly what he had expected to see: a very familiar magician in black clothing pointing a very familiar octagonal device at him.

“Now then,” Marisa said. “You're gonna explain yourself. Quickly.”

Hikan stared at her in surprise before he sighed again. “You've gotta be fucking kidding me…” he said under his breath before looking up. “Me, Alex, and the others came out here to rescue a kidnapped cub. We split up because Arela sensed another angel and when we met back up…” he paused and looked back towards Alexandria and Shanghai, a sad look on his face as his hands fell. “Alex wasn't acting right… She started making threats, acted aggressive… I was just trying to subdue her…”

“…I was watchin' the whole time actually,” Marisa said. “So I already know she was bein' all weird… But it look'ta me like you were tryin'ta kill her.”

Hikan opened his mouth to argue only to stop. He closed his lips and lifted his armored hand to look at his clawed gauntlet. “I… went too far…” he said quietly. “She… said some very… painful things to hear and I… couldn't hold Hikan back like I should've. I'm not even sure I tried…”

Marisa was silent for several moments. “…That still doesn't give you the excuse to kill her,” she finally said. “I know Alex, and she's not like that. Obviously, somethin's causin' her to act strange. We just gotta find out what and put a stop to it.”

“I wasn't going to kill her!” Hikan shouted, his orange eye flaring, Marisa tensing in response, before he calmed down. “I don't kill friends…” He turned and walked back to Alexandria before slowly lowering down and picking her up, being sure to place Shanghai gently on her stomach before standing up. “We gotta get her to somewhere she can rest…”

Marisa hesitated for several moments before putting her device under her hat as she approached Hikan. “I was just comin' to check on Alex 'cause I had a bad feelin' 'bout somethin',” she said. “But I think I'll stick around from here on out, 'cause this seems like a big deal.” Marisa then picked up Shanghai and gently placed her in the front pocket of her dress. “Don't want this little gal to fall off Alex while we fly back to wherever the others are.”

Hikan nodded his head. “We'll have to enter the restaurant from the back,” he said, his wings extending out. “I can't take this armor off until I get somewhere to rest or I'll be worse off than Alex here.”

“Alright, gotcha,” Marisa said as she got on her broomstick and the two took to the air.

Arela's head immediately snapped to the restaurant's back door as it opened. She rushed to the sound, barely managing to stop herself from barreling into Hikan's chest when she noticed that he was carrying Alexandria. Her tears couldn't be stopped even if she wanted.

“Hey, guys,” Hikan said, sweat dripping from his forehead as he stepped in. He stepped up next to Arela and hugged her with a wing, leaning sideways to kiss her on the crown of her head. “Sorry for making you worry…” Arela simply leaned into his wing, wrapping one of her own with his as she kept crying.

Starlight stood up from her seat across from Gaelle and Garrick. “Hikan… what happened?” She asked, worried eyes going over him and the Yokai in his arms.

“You don't really haffta concern yourself with that right now, alright?” Marisa said as she stepped in behind Hikan. “For now, we need to get Alex and Hikan somewhere to rest. Hikan says he'll collapse once he takes the armor off.”

“I don't think there is somewhere to rest here,” Arela said after wiping her tears away.

Shell looks up worriedly. “We can't stay here,” she said. “Someone is bound to notice us…”

“She's right. With all the chaos we caused, we're bound to have attracted the attention of the Guards,” Arela noted.

Gaelle was quiet as she listened to them go back and forth. After a moment, she looked down at Garrick before she took a breath. “You all could stay at my place for a little while,” she said, looking up at them. “It's the least I could do after what you've all done tonight.”

Hikan looks at her before looking to the others. “Any objections?”

“Hey, I get to stay somewhere for free,” Marisa said. “I ain't complainin'.”

“I can live with it,” Arela said softly, nuzzling into Hikan's side.

“It sounds fine to me…” Shell said, agreeing with Arela.

Starlight nods. “It's certainly a lot better than the streets,” she said before looking at Gaelle. “Thank you for the offer.” The griffon nodded back.

“It's settled then,” Hikan said tiredly, adjusting Alexandria a bit. “We'll crash with you for the night.”

“You can stay as long as you like,” Gaelle said, looking up at him. “I know what it's like being new to the big city with nowhere to call home. Just until you guys can find your own place, hopefully something big enough to support all of you.”

“I know the feeling as well. I once had to live in Koganusaun to investigate an Angel trafficking ring. While it was nice having such a large apartment, the depravity of the dwarves there was… Well, not very pleasant,” Arela concurred.

Starlight grimaced at that. “So, Miss… um…”

“Bludedge.”

“Miss Bludedge,” the unicorn filled in quickly, giving an embarrassed chuckle. “Um… which way?”

Gaelle just giggled a bit at that. “The building right behind the restaurant,” she said, a little humor returning to her voice.

“Well, ain't that convenient,” Marisa said with a grin. “'Cept it's an apartment buildin', so why don'cha lead the way?”

“Come on, my love,” Arela urged, gently pulling Hikan with her to the door. Gaelle giggled a bit before standing up with Garrick in tow and leaving the building.

“Your little group sure is strange,” she murmured good naturedly as she passed by Hikan.

Hikan blinked at the griffoness before looking back towards his group. Slowly, a smile touched his face. “Yeah… yeah we are,” he said before turning to follow her out the door.

Chapter 11

Knock knock

Marisa was woken up by the sound of knocking. She opened her eyes and looked around at her surroundings. After a few moments, she remembered where she was. This was the apartment of a griffoness named Gaelle. Last night after arriving, Gaelle had her son Garrick sleep in her room with her to free up the guest bedroom for Hikan and Arela, Shell having managed to talk her way into sleeping in the guest bedroom as well. The black-winged angel had also been brought into the guest bedroom, though she had been put into a sleeping bag on the floor. Alexandria had been given the sofa to rest on, and was still out cold, Shanghai having been placed on her lap. Starlight had claimed the smaller loveseat in the living area, her short frame fitting on the piece of furniture just fine. Unfortunately, that left Marisa with the armchair to sleep in, and her rest had been a little dodgy throughout the night.

Knock knock

“Hello?” a young girl's muffled voice came from the hall after the knock. “Is anyone home?”

Marisa looked to Starlight, who was still fast asleep on the love-seat. “Ugh…” Marisa grumbled to herself as she got out of the armchair. “Guess I gotta answer the door…”

When Marisa opened the door, what she saw was something she didn't expect. Standing in the hallway was what - at first glance - looked like a young human girl who was about a head shorter than Marisa. She had shoulder-length green hair and green eyes, her hair tied into a short ponytail on the left side of her head with a yellow ribbon. She was wearing a simple blue dress with white trim and short, white sleeves, a yellow ascot around her neck, and nothing on her feet. Though she looked human at first glance, it barely even took a moment for Marisa to realize that she wasn't. The large, transparent, oval-shaped wings - each with a golden strip along the top edge - on the girl's back proved that wasn't the case. Marisa recognized her as a Fairy instead.

“Um…” the Fairy started. “Have you seen my friend Cirno?”

“…Eh?” Marisa responded, her eyes widening a little in surprise.

“If you haven't, that's okay,” the Fairy said. “I'll just ask someone else.”

“Ah, no,” Marisa said, shaking the surprise off. “Cirno's watchin' over my place while I'm all the way out here.”

The Fairy perked up when she heard that. “Where's your place then?” she asked.

“Well, ah…” Marisa hesitated, rubbing the back of her head. “My place is really far from here. More than a day's travel I'd say.”

“Oh…” the Fairy answered, her wings drooping a little.

“Ah, but…” Marisa said quickly, not wanting to make the Fairy sad. “Cirno's a strong gal you know. She can take care of herself. I'll be stickin' with some other people for a while but, if it makes you feel any better, you could join us. Then, when I'm ready to head home, I could take you with me and then you'd be able to meet up with Cirno. How's that sound?”

“I guess that would work,” the Fairy said. “But I'm still worried about her. She's always doing dangerous things when I'm not around…”

“Yeah, a real troublemaker that one…” Marisa mumbled. “Anyway, c'mon in.” The Fairy nodded and entered, Marisa closing the door behind her. “So, what's your name?” she asked the Fairy.

“My name is Daiyousei,” the Fairy answered.

The door closing was enough to jolt Starlight awake. She blinked the sleep from her eyes before lifting a hand to rub at them. After a moment, her eyes widened. “Marisa, did you invite someone else in here…!?” The mare asked in a hissed whisper.

“Woah, calm down there,” Marisa said, raising her hands up in front of herself.“Daiyousei's a friend of Cirno's. It's fine.”

“We are in somebody else's home-” Starlight made to answer before the sound of a door creaking drew her gaze to where Gaelle was stepping out of her bedroom with a scarlet nightgown on.

The griffoness gave a loud yawn before her gaze dropped and she looked blearily around the room. Her eyes went from tired to confused to tired again. She lifted her finger and pointed towards Daiyousei. “She… was she with you guys last night?” she questioned, looking between Marisa and Starlight.

“U-Umm…” Starlight answered, averting her eyes and rubbing the back of her head.

“Nope,” Marisa answered honestly. “She came to the door this mornin'.”

“I'm worried about Cirno,” Daiyousei said. “Marisa said that Cirno's at her place. She invited me to join her and you guys so that she can take me to Cirno when she goes home.”

Starlight and Gaelle looked to Daiyousei, then towards Marisa, then towards each other, then back to Marisa. “And how long do you think it's going to be before you go home?” Starlight asked.

“I dunno,” Marisa answered with a shrug. “If I knew that, I'da asked Daiyousei to come back after that much time'd passed. Since I dunno, then bringin' her with me ensures she'll be around when I'm ready to leave.”

Gaelle blinked for a moment before giving a sigh. “Riiight…” she murmured before coming to sit next to Starlight as the mare made room for her. “So, not to sound pushy, but what are your guys' plan? If things keep up like this, it's going to be an even fuller house in here than it already is.”

“I guess we'll just have to work things out if it comes to that,” Marisa said.

“Hikan would probably have a plan…” Starlight muttered, looking to the floor. “He always seems to…” The sound of the guest room's door opening alerted them all to Arela's wakening form, her hair slightly ruffled and frayed and her clothes a little messy.

She walked over to a window, opened the blinds, and made a gesture that gave them all pause, as it seemed like she was yawning and stretching, but that proved wrong when she said, “Praise Lithg and his light,” then actually yawned and sat down on a nearby chair.

Starlight blinked at the angel. “What was that?” She asked, looking between Arela and the window. Arela looked to her as she plucked an errant feather from her wing.

“That? That's just the standard ritual all Angels do every morning. It's a custom of ours, although High Angels like me tend to bring out a special candle as well, but I lost mine ages ago,” Arela explained, before grunting a little as she pulled another feather out. “Could you be a dear and help me with my preening, Starlight? I'd ask my Devoted, but he's out cold.”

“Um, sure…” Starlight answered before getting up and walking over to Arela. “What exactly do I need to do?” Arela motioned to her large, golden wings.

“Just carefully pluck and straighten my feathers out. That's all there is to it,” Arela explained.

Starlight hesitated a moment before she shook her hands. “Alright, if you say so,” she said before getting started. After a few moments, the actions seemed to actually relax the unicorn. “How is Hikan…?” Arela grunted, guiding the unicorn to the feathers that needed to be plucked and straightened.

“Exhausted, but good enough,” Arela told her.

“Yeah, it makes sense that he's exhausted,” Marisa said, looking to Alexandria on the sofa. “Before he nearly killed her, Alex was beatin' him up pretty good, I'll be honest.”

“Huh?” Daiyousei said. “That girl on the couch is hurt?”

“Uh, yeah,” Marisa answered. “Pretty bad too.”

“That's not good…” Daiyousei said, approaching the sofa. “Let me try and do something about it.” She then put her hands on Alexandria.

Recovery [Healing Power]

Suddenly, a green glow went from Daiyousei's hands and spread across Alexandria's body before fading away, Daiyousei then taking her hands off Alexandria. After a few moments, Alexandria blinked her eyes open.

“W-Where…?” she started slowly.

Starlight looked in surprise before blinking and looking at Daiyousei. “Did you actually heal her?” She asked. “Like, completely heal her?”

“Um, it looks like it…” Daiyousei answered.

“Woah…” the unicorn breathed. “Even master unicorns struggle with healing spells that advanced…”

“Spell…?” Daiyousei repeated. “I didn't use any magic… I just healed her, that's it.”

Alexandria then sat up and looked around. “Where am-” she began to say before her gaze fell on Marisa. “…Marisa? What are you doing here?” She then looked around again. “And where is 'here'?”

“I'm sure you've met Gaelle already, right?” Marisa asked, receiving a nod from Alexandria. “Well, this is her apartment. We brought you here to rest up after Hikan introduced your head to a brick wall at high speeds.”

“…Oh yeah…” Alexandria said quietly, dropping her gaze as she remembered last night. “…I'm really sorry about that… I honestly have no idea what came over me…”

“Nah, it's fine,” Marisa said with a dismissive wave of her hand. “You're back to your usual self now, so don't worry 'bout it. Anyway, I'm here 'cause I started to have a bad feelin', so I came to check things out. I found you actin' all weird, so I'm stickin' around to get to the bottom of it.”

“…Alright,” Alexandria said before turning to Daiyousei, an expression of curiosity and confusion on her face. “And who's the Fairy?”

“Um, I'm Daiyousei,” Daiyousei responded. “It's nice to meet you.”

After a few moments, Alexandria gave a light smile back. “It's nice to meet you too, Daiyousei,” Alexandria said. “My name is Alexandria Kijin.”

“If it weren't for Dai here healin' you,” Marisa started. “You'd still be out cold recoverin'.”

“Healing me…?” Alexandria repeated, putting a hand on her chin as her brow furrowed. “Is that… Her ability…?”

“Apparently so,” Arela said, then wincing as Starlight accidentally plucked the wrong feather. “Careful, Starlight. I don't want to have my wings ruined.”

“Sorry,” Starlight apologized before a thought came to her. “Wait… could you heal someone that's been knocked out from exhaustion?”

“Um, someone that's tired…?” Daiyousei asked, receiving a nod from Starlight. “I don't know… I don't think I've ever tried…”

“Could you?” The unicorn asked, a bit of a hopeful tone in her voice.

“I guess so…” Daiyousei said. “Is there someone like that here? Where are they?”

Starlight nodded her head. “He's through that door there,” she said, giving a little nod towards the guest room.

“Here, let me show you,” Gaelle said, getting up from the loveseat before walking towards the guest room.

As Daiyousei followed Gaelle towards the guest room, Alexandria got up from the sofa, Shanghai having woken up as well. “I'll go too,” she said. “I… want to apologize to Hikan anyway…” With that, she followed Gaelle and Daiyousei into the guest room. The griffoness led them into the room and stepped to the side and out of the way to reveal Shell and Hikan still in the bed.

Shell was curled up near the edge while Hikan seemed to take up a lot more space, his breath a little more labored than the Changeling's. Daiyousei's gaze immediately went to Hikan as she watched his ragged breathing.

“That doesn't look very good…” she said, referring to his breathing. “I'll try my best to help him.” She then approached Hikan and put her hands on him, just like she did with Alexandria. Alexandria watched with interest.

Recovery [Healing Power]

The same green glow flowed from Daiyousei's hands and spread throughout Hikan's body before fading. Daiyousei then stepped back from Hikan. Slowly, the man's face scrunched up and his eyes blinked open. He groaned as he sat up in the bed. “What… what day is it…?” He asked, looking up at them.

“Um, it's the morning after our fight…” Alexandria said slowly to Hikan, looking down at the floor. “I'm… really sorry about yesterday… I have no idea what came over me… I shouldn't have said the things I said or done the things I did… I'm just… so sorry…”

Hikan blinked at her for a moment before he sighed. “I forgive you, Alex,” he said. “Whatever happened last night, I don't blame you for… but… I am sorry for my actions. I shouldn't have let Hikan influence my actions so far as to hurt you like that.”

“Sounds like you both have regret for last night,” Shell suddenly muttered, rolling over and opening her eyes.

“Oh! Uh…” Alexandria said. “Did we wake you…?”

The Changeling shrugged before giving a yawn. “Not really,” she answered. “I woke up when Lady Arela got out of bed.”

“Ah, alright then…” Alexandria said.

“So, how are you feeling?” Daiyousei asked Hikan. “Did I help you feel better?”

“Actually,” the hunter answered, stretching his arm over his head. “Yeah, I actually feel like a hundred and ten percent for once in a long time.”

“That's good,” Daiyousei said with a smile, relief in her voice. “I don't like seeing people hurt…”

“Certainly noted,” Hikan said, giving a little smile before he looked to Alexandria. “Are the others up yet?”

“Except for Garrick,” Alexandria said before noticing the Fallen Angel in the sleeping bag. “…And her, yeah. Everyone's awake.”

Hikan nodded his head before looking to the sleeping angel, noting the many scrapes and scratches on her cheek. His face formed a sad frown. “...I don't even want to think about what they did to her in that damn pit,” he muttered quietly.

Daiyousei finally took notice of the Fallen Angel. “There's another one?” she said. “Well, if she's hurt, then it's wrong for me not to help.” She then went over and put her hands on the angel's arm, which was outside the sleeping bag, before using the same ability as twice before. This time when the green glow faded, everyone watched as the scrapes on her face closed up and vanished completely right in front of their eyes. Then, she groaned and her heterochromatic eyes fluttered open.

As soon as they did, they widened, and she jumped out of the sleeping bag, a flash of purple and white light coming over her as two sais appeared in her hands, only to quickly disappear. Noticing this, she backed herself to a corner of the room.

“St-Stay away!” she cried, shielding herself with her large, black wings.

Daiyousei's eyes widened. “I was only helping you…” she said, confusion in her voice.

“We don't want to hurt you,” Alexandria said gently. “Please, we're trying to help you.”

The angel lowered her wings a bit, looking nervously between them all. “Y-Y-You're not gonna rape me until I'm u-u-unconsious…?”

“No, we're not,” Alexandria answered, her brows furrowing. “We took you away from the people that were doing that to you. We're going to treat you like a respectable angel.” The angel looked between them all again, then slowly lowered her wings completely.

“O-Okay… B-But who are you?” she asked.

“My name is Alexandria Kijin,” Alexandria said, introducing herself.

“I'm Daiyousei, a Greater Fairy,” Daiyousei said.

“I am Shell, a Changeling,” the insectoid introduced, getting up from her side of the bed and giving a little wave.

“Hikan Kanshi,” the hunter greeted, standing to his feet and taking off his coat. “And you are mostly naked.” He held his coat out to her at that. She graciously took it and covered herself with it, looking between them all before clearing her throat.

“I-I'm Ayis Filya VII,” the angel, now known as Ayis, said, trying to sound confident but failing.

“Nice to meetcha Ayis,” Marisa suddenly said, stepping into the doorway with her usual grin. She noted that Ayis and Daiyousei were the same height. “The name's Marisa Kirisame, and I'm just an ordinary human magician. There're a couple other folks out here for you to meet. Why don'cha come say hi?” The angel flinched, but managed to regain her confident composure.

“S-Sure, I guess,” she said, following the woman out the door.

“Marisa's gonna be a handful, I can already tell…” Alexandria muttered, shaking her head, though the small smile on her face betrayed her words.

“Tell me about it,” the hunter muttered as he got up and walked after them. “Does that girl have no sense of tact?” Shell followed him wordlessly into the living room.

“We should go out there too,” Daiyousei said. “Everyone else is out there, and being with lots of friends is always better.”

Alexandria smiled at that. “You're right Daiyousei,” Alexandria said. “It is nice to have a lot of friends.” She then turned to Gaelle as her and Daiyousei started to leave the room. “C'mon, no point in staying in here alone.”

“Ain't that the truth,” Gaelle replied, pushing her shoulder off the wall to follow the Yokai.

As they all walked into the main room, Arela looked to see Ayis, who looked back and promptly scowled.

“Who's the high and mighty bitch?” Ayis asked. Arela frowned.

“For your information, I helped save your hide,” Arela shot back.

“It's true,” Alexandria said with a frown. “Her and I had to work very hard to get you out of there. The two of us ended up fighting a tank alone.” Ayis blinked, and her scowl faltered, until she sighed, crossing her arms.

“Fine… Guess I should say thank you, then, even if one of you is a filn,” Ayis acquiesced. Alexandria raised an eyebrow at Ayis' attitude. She had a sneaking suspicion about something, but decided now wasn't the time to look into it.

“Now that you guys are done with the verbal catfight,” Hikan said, stepping forward. “We need to make a plan. Primarily a place to house all of us and,” he looked down and poked his finger through a burned out hole in his shirt. “Some of us need new clothes.”

Alexandria looked to her own slightly torn dress. “I'm kind of fond of my clothes,” she said. “If possible, I'd rather just get them stitched up. They're not really that damaged anyway.”

“New clothes sound wonderful. I don't like showing off my goods to everyone around me,” Ayis agreed.

“I think we could all use some, yes,” Arela winced again as Starlight plucked the wrong feather. “Please pay attention.”

“Sorry, sorry,” Starlight said with a grimace. Then, all of a sudden, Ayis looked sick, and rushed to the bathroom, then the sound of vomiting came from within.

Hikan looked after her with concern. He looked to Arela and Alexandria. “…She said she had been raped…” he said, pointing a finger to the bathroom before going quiet again. “…Add that to the list, she needs a doctor to check on her.”

Alexandria looked towards the bathroom in concern for a moment before heading in. She found Ayis bent over the toilet, her hair hanging down. “Here,” Alexandria said, lifting Ayis' hair back and out of the way. “Wouldn't want to get your hair all dirty.”

“Th-” she was cut off as she threw up again.

“You're welcome,” Alexandria said. “Take your time.” After a short while, her vomiting stopped, and Ayis was panting a little. “You okay now?” Alexandria asked her.

“Y-Yeah, thanks…” she stood up, going over to the sink to wash her mouth. She seemed shaken by a realization as she did so.

“Yeah, you said you were raped,” Alexandria said, understanding what Ayis realized. “We were thinking of having a doctor take a look at you to be sure.” Ayis was quiet for a bit.

“I… I don't know if I could handle being a mom. I'm still a teenager, how can I possibly handle a kid?” Ayis said, voice and body shaking. Alexandria was caught a little by surprise. Ayis was completely different from the tough punk she'd been in the living room.

“…Well…” Alexandria started a little hesitantly. “What if I offered to help you raise the child?” Ayis stopped at that. She slowly turned to Alexandria.

“You'd do that? For someone you don't even know?” Ayis asked, looking into the girl's eyes. Alexandria nodded.

“Yeah,” she answered. “Being nice to others is just the right thing to do, whether you've known them for years or if you've just met them.” Ayis blinked at her, then smiled, the first time she had since waking up.

“Thank you,” she said as Alexandria was wrapped in a quick wing hug. Alexandria noted that the wings were warmer than the angel's arms… She also experienced an oddly pleasant sensation she didn't recognize for a couple moments before the angel let go and coughed into her fist, a small blush on her cheeks. “A-Anyway, let's get back to the others.”

Alexandria paused for a few moments before a smile spread across her face. “Yeah,” she said. “We'll want to break the news to them, you know?” she added with a wink as she left the bathroom. Ayis blushed a little more before following after the Yokai.

“-nd a place on Halter Street,” Gaelle had just finished saying when the sound of the pair's footsteps drew her and everyone else's attention.

“Everything okay in there?” Hikan asked, worry in his voice.

“Yeah, everything's fine,” Alexandria responded, the smile still on her face. “We're pretty confident that Ayis is pregnant, since she's been showing a couple of the signs already. We'll have the doctor confirm that, but…” She glanced at Ayis quickly, who was continuing to blush a little as Alexandria explained everything. “Ayis says she's too young to raise a child on her own.” Alexandria paused for a moment as she turned to face everyone else in the room again. “So I offered to help her raise it,” she finished. There were a few moments of silence as everyone let that sink in.

After a moment, Gaelle got up from her resting position on the arm of the loveseat and walked towards the two, a strange look in her eyes. She stopped in front of the angel, looking down at her with that still foreign look in her eyes… just before the griffon wrapped the dark angel in a hug, tears building in her eyes. “H-Hey,” Ayis stuttered as her brows furrowed and the blush on her cheeks grew, somewhat flustered as she squirmed a little. “I-It's not that big of a deal…”

“Yes,” Gaelle said, letting go before backing up. “Yes, it is.”

Hikan smiled at the little scene before his face screwed up and he looked towards the ground. “Let's get one thing straight,” he suddenly said, looking up. “From here on out… not a single one of us is alone. Not now. Not ever.”

“Mm-hm,” Daiyousei hummed, nodding her head. “I like being with other people more than being alone…”

“Sounds good to me,” Marisa said. “Havin' allies that've got my back definitely eases my mind, that's for sure.”

“And I really don't want to have to fight my friends again,” Alexandria added. “If I start acting strange like I did before, then feel free to knock me out without hesitation.” Marisa grinned at this.

“Alright,” she said. “If you start actin' up again, I'll just give you a good smack in the head with my broom and knock some sense back into you.”

“W-Well you'll need a good Elemental Channeler if you want to survive, and I'm the best around!” Ayis said confidently, hands on her hips.

“Ah, so you're one of those. I'm a Tactical Fighter myself,” Arela commented.

Alexandria had fallen silent after Ayis had spoken, her brows furrowed and her hand on her chin as she looked down at the floor, deep in thought. “Actually, that gives me an idea,” she then said, looking up. “Maybe we could assign everyone roles, or 'classes' if you will. Doing that could help keep us organized during operations.”

Hikan nodded at that. “That's how we ran Night Raid,” he said. “Each of us had a specific role to play so when it came to enact a plan, we all knew where to be and what our jobs were. I didn't bother with us because there were only five of us.” A little rumble sounded out as Cataclysm pulled himself from under the loveseat. “…Okay, six of us.”

“Um, what about me?” Shanghai piped up from Alexandria's shoulder.

“Okay, there were seven of us,” Hikan said, before wavering his hand. “Give or take. But the point is, right now, we actually have a team of capable individuals that can actually get something done.”

“Alright so, what roles will we need filled?” Alexandria asked Hikan. “Before everyone can choose roles, we'll need to know what they are.”

“Well, if I had it my way,” the assassin started. “We'd have a team of eleven. Seems big, but when it comes to a job, specialists are what's needed. The roles should be scout, soldier, element manipulator, demolitions, tank, trap-artist, healer, sniper, spy, mage, and, of course, a public face.”

Alexandria looked at Gaelle. “If it's okay, I want to nominate Gaelle as the public face,” she said. “She seems like the best fit for it.”

Gaelle looked up in surprise. “Wait, what?” she questioned. “Why me?”

“Well…” Alexandria started. “Just look at everyone in the room. Most of us will stick out like a sore thumb. The only potential candidates would be Starlight and Shell. Shell doesn't do well with strangers, and I don't think Starlight would be the best choice here. You seem like you're good with people, so it just seemed like a perfect fit in my mind.”

Gaelle was quiet for a long moment before she sighed. “You guys would have a hard time getting anywhere in this city,” she said. “And you wouldn't be able to find a place to stay either, unless you went to the sleazy part of town… and you've all seen what that's like…” Alexandria shivered slightly, remembering what happened in that part of the city last night.

“Yeah,” she responded with a slow nod. “That would not be very pleasant…”

“I agree. The only question is, will you join us, Gaelle? We can assure you safety, along with your adorable tylin, but the choice is still yours,” Arela pointed out.

Gaelle looked at each of them before giving a smile. “You know, I always kept myself guarded,” she said. “I lived like that for ten years… never letting anyone in. …I think that it'd be a nice change to have you guys around.” Arela smiled at this.

“Damn straight!” Ayis concurred. “I'll take the elemental manipulator spot.”

“I'll take the tank role. My armor gives me quite a boost to defense, after all,” Arela pointed out.

“I could take the role of scout,” Alexandria offered. “I'm quick, and out of everyone present, I'm probably by far the best at dodging.”

“I can definitely attest to that,” Marisa said. “Alex might be outta practice recently, but in her prime, she was practically impossible to hit. I'll take demolitions. That sounds like somethin' I'll enjoy.”

“I'll be healer,” Daiyousei spoke up. “That's what I do best.”

“If Arela's going the way of the tank, I guess I should be the mage,” Starlight said.

Shell started to raise her hand. “…Yes, Shell?” Hikan questioned, looking towards her.

“Um, the role of spy sounds an awful lot like an infiltrator,” she said. “I think I'd be more than able to take the position.”

Hikan nodded before looking to the others. “I've always played the role of soldier, so I'll take that position,” he said.

Alexandria had been staring at Shanghai silently since claiming the role of scout. “…I'm stumped,” she suddenly said after several more moments, turning to look at Hikan.

“What's up?” The hunter asked.

“I've been trying to think of what role to give Shanghai,” Alexandria answered before shaking her head. “…I can't do it.”

“I'm not sure there is one,” Starlight said quietly. “She's small enough to infiltrate, could set numerous traps, and even take a huge hit, but… that doesn't really put her in any one category. More like all of them…”

“And even in regards to the roles she can't fill right now,” Alexandria started. “She has the potential to inherit abilities that would allow her to fill them in the future. She's like a little bit of everything.”

“Hey, here's an idea,” Marisa jumped in. “If she can do a little bit of everythin', why don't we make her a support? Then, dependin' on the mission, she could be assigned to help one of us.”

“That sounds like how the hive would choose what class a Changeling would become,” Shell muttered before looking up. “It was effective.”

“That sounds great to me,” Arela agreed.

“Eh, sure. Couldn't hurt to have the little squirt help out,” Ayis agreed. “And since I'm staying with Alex here so she can help me raise my kid, I might as well tag along on the missions you guys have. Sounds fun.”

Hikan grinned. “Well, then,” he said. “It's settled. Now, we just need a home base…and a preferably endless supply of clothing…”

“I know where we can find a top-notch builder,” Ayis offered.

“You know a builder here in Canterlot?” Starlight asked. Ayis nodded.

“He's one of the few people the Great Being allowed to come here, and he was here long before me. He helped plan the Garrison in downtown. I was taken in by him when I first came here,” Ayis explained. “I… Well, I kinda need to see him again anyways, because he doesn't know that I made it back from the Circle. I was taken from him a few months ago.”

Hikan nodded at that. “It's always good to have friends in overlooked places,” he said. “But I'd still like you to go see a doctor, just to make sure you're okay after everything.” Ayis nodded.

“I'd like to as well, if only to see the kid's gender,” Ayis concurred.

“I know someone,” Gaelle spoke up. “He helped me out after… well, you know.”

“I'll come too,” Alexandria offered. “If I'm going to help raise the child, I'll want to know if it's a boy or a girl too.”

“Okay,” Hikan said. “That sounds like a plan. As it stands, we probably shouldn't all be in one place in case the Circle shows up. I'm pretty sure we got everyone in the warehouse, but just to be safe, we should go in groups. I'd like to take another group to get us some less… morbid attire.”

“I can stay and watch the apartment if you'd like,” Marisa offered.

“I think I'll stay and keep Marisa company,” Daiyousei added.

“And we'll go and see a doctor,” Ayis said.

“We'll join you guys to get Ayis a proper outfit once we're done at the doctor's,” Alexandria said. “She can't just go around in Hikan's coat forever.”

“Yeah. It's not exactly easy on the nipples,” Ayis admitted. Arela groaned.

“Can't you have some decency?” she asked, hand on her head.

“Oh shut up,” Ayis shot back.

“Anyway…” Alexandria started, looking at Ayis and Arela pointedly. “That'll be the plan. We'll meet up with you guys once we're done with the doctor.”

“Sounds good,” Hikan said, looking to each of them. “Anything we need to do before we head out?”

“I just need to get dressed and get Garrick up,” Gaelle answered before looking towards Marisa and Daiyousai. “No offense to either of you, but I think it's best if he sticks close to me after last night.”

“Nah, no offense taken,” Marisa said, putting one hand up in front of herself and shaking her head. “If I were in your shoes, I'd be hesitant to let my kid outta my sight too.”

Gaelle nodded her head before turning back towards the master bedroom. “We'll be right out,” she said before walking off into her room.

“While she's doing that,” Hikan said, looking at the group. “Anything else we need to talk about before we get on our way?”

“Not really. But before we go, I need a good preening, too. Bastards kept using them for…” Ayis shivered. “...Wingjobs, so they aren't in good condition. Alex, mind helping me out?” Ayis sat down on the couch, displaying her large black wings that were matted together by some white substance and the feathers out of place.

“Alright, I'll try,” Alexandria said, stepping behind Ayis. “Any tips on what needs to be plucked and what just needs to be straightened?”

“Well, a rag will be needed as well. A wet one, so that we can get this filthy seed off of my wings. Just pluck the ones that look weaker and less healthy, and straighten the ones that are bent,” Ayis told Alexandria.

“Okay, thanks,” Alexandria said with a nod before glancing at Shanghai. “Shanghai, could you please get a wet rag while I start this?”

“Sure,” Shanghai answered before heading to the kitchen area. While Alexandria started plucking the damaged and weak feathers and straightened the bent ones, Shanghai looked through the kitchen drawers until she found a dish cloth. She then placed it in the sink and turned the tap on to wet it. Once that was done, she shut off the tap and picked up the soaking wet cloth. It then looked like she gave it a big bear hug as she tried to wring it out, though she wasn't very successful.

Arela giggled, and, her preening done, stood up and walked over to Shanghai, helping her with the rag. “Thank you,” Shanghai said to Arela after Arela had wrung it for her, bringing the wet dish cloth to Alexandria. Alexandria was just finishing up the majority of Ayis' preening by the time Shanghai came back, having gotten the hang of it rather quickly. Shanghai held the dish cloth out to Alexandria. “Here you go,” Shanghai said.

“Thanks Shanghai,” Alexandria said to her as she took the rag. “Now, let's get all this gunk out of here,” she muttered to herself as she carefully began to clean Ayis' feathers. Ayis stayed still as she looked over her shoulder, watching Alexandria clean her wings, and she couldn't help but blush at the way Alexandria's brow furrowed a lot as she focused intently on cleaning Ayis' wings without hurting her. She just found it to be so adorable. Shanghai noticed the staring, but remained silent, not wanting to break Alexandria's focus.

Hikan watched the group interact with a little smile on his face before a tap on his arm drew his attention to Starlight. “What's up?” He asked, noting the worried look on her face.

“Could… Could I talk to you for a second?” She asked, looking a bit worried.

Hikan's face shifted to match hers. “Star, what's wrong?” He questioned, turning his body to face her.

She hesitated for a moment before taking a breath. “From all the talk you did… it sounded like you wanted to go after the Circle,” she said, looking up at him.

The assassin was quiet for a moment before he answered. “Yes.”

Starlight's eyes widened. “Hikan, even I know the Circle has roots so deep in Canterlot that if you go after them, you turn the capital of Equestria against you!” She said, a panic forming in her voice. “And even if we do beat them, it could topple everything!’

Hikan looked at her and shrugged. “Not the first time I've done it,” he said nonchalantly. “And the group that did it wasn't nearly as talented as our group here.” Starlight looked ready to argue until Alexandria spoke up, sounding slightly irritated.

“Do you mind putting that on hold until later?” she asked, not looking up from Ayis' wings. “I can't concentrate properly with you two arguing a couple feet away.”

Starlight turned to look at her. “You're not the least bit afraid of what might happen? To any of us? To you, to Shanghai, to the city? This is like starting a war by ourselves! Getting back a kid or an angel is bad enough from the ponies that run this city. Now… we want to go to war with them on their own turf?”

“Seriously, I can't focus at all right now,” Alexandria said. “I'll think about it later, I'm a bit preoccupied at the moment.”

Starlight stared at the Yokai for several moments before she opened her mouth to retort only to be stopped by a hand on her shoulder. She froze and looked back at Hikan. “Starlight, just trust me on this one,” he said softly. “With the help of less equipped people with no real superpowers or magic, we took down an entire government. That would be like me walking in here with, say, ten Applejacks and wiping the floor with Nightmare Moon. So… I'll say it again. We've got this, Starlight….”

The mare stared up at him for a long time before sighing. “I hope you're right…” she muttered, just before Gaelle and Garrick walked out of the master bedroom.

“Sounds like you guys were having fun out here,” the griffoness said with a teasing smile.

“Mmmm…” Alexandria hummed as she looked over Ayis' wings one more time. “That should about do it. How do you feel? Better?”

“Huh? O-O-Oh, uh, yes, very much so,” Ayis stuttered, looking anywhere but at Alexandria.

Alexandria grinned at that, beginning to figure something out about Ayis. “Glad to hear that,” she said. “Now then, I think we're ready to head out to the doctor.”

“R-Right,” Ayis said, standing up.

“Alright, since you're the one who knows the doctor,” Alexandria started, turning to Gaelle. “How about you lead the way?”

Gaelle looked between the two, a small smile growing on her face before she walked towards the door. “Right this way,” she said, opening the door.

“We should get going, too,” Hikan said, straightening up. “Especially if we all want to meet up on time.”

“Hang on,” Marisa spoke up just before Alexandria stepped out the door. “One last thing before you leave. Got a spare key you could leave with me? Y'know, in case I get bored and decide to leave.”

“Oh, yeah,” Gaelle said before kneeling down and pulling a bit of the carpet in the hallway next to the door frame up, and slipped out a small silver key. “Here, but remember to put it back when you're done. It's the one the landlord uses on his… surprise inspections.”

“Gotcha,” Marisa said, taking the key. “Anyways, you guys have fun now!”

“Yeah, I'll see you later Marisa,” Alexandria said over her shoulder with a wave.

“And please stay safe,” Daiyousei added.

Hikan's eyes suddenly widened and he rushed to the door. “Alex, wait!” He said urgently, one of his wisps forming over his hand.

“Huh?” Alexandria asked, stopping short. “Why? What's wrong?”

He stopped and a click sounded out from the will-o'-wisp before a small black device fell into his hand. He lifted it up to show off a small earpiece. “We should probably keep in touch just in case,” he said, offering it to her.

“Ah,” Alexandria said simply. “That probably would be a good idea.” She then took the earpiece and put it on. “Alright then, we'll meet back with you once we're done.” With that and a wave, Alexandria, Ayis, Gaelle and Garrick left to see the doctor.

Hikan turned and another click sounded out before he tossed an earpiece towards Daiyousei. “And can't forget the two of you,” he said, a final click dropping a third earpiece into his hand before his wisp disappeared.

Daiyousei clumsily caught the earpiece Hikan had tossed to her. “U-Um… What does it do…?” she asked.

“It lets you talk to anyone else who's wearin' one,” Marisa said. “So, Hikan and Alex. Here, you put it on your ear, like this.” Marisa then took the earpiece and fit it onto Daiyousei's ear.

“Um, so I should be able to talk to Alex now, right…?” she wondered out loud, touching the unfamiliar piece of technology in her ear.

“Yup, I can hear you loud and clear Daiyousei,” Alexandria's voice responded through the earpiece. “If you get into any trouble, just shout, and Hikan and I will come to help you out.”

“Okay, thank you,” Daiyousei said, sighing a little. “I don't have to worry as much with these. I wish me and Cirno could have a pair all the time… It would really save me a lot of worry…”

Hikan looked at her for a moment before letting out a breath. “I'm sure she'll be fine,” he said comfortingly. “After what I've seen from her, she can take care of herself.”

“She always says she'll be fine because she's the strongest,” Daiyousei responded. “But she doesn't really have any sense of safety at all. She's always doing such dangerous things…”

“But she's nice enough. Eccentric, but nice,” Arela commented.

“Mmm…” Daiyousei hummed hesitantly. “I just wish she wouldn't worry me so much though…”

Hikan frowned a little before lowering his gaze. “...We should get going if we want to stay on schedule,” he pointed out, gaze still on the floor.

“Yeah, bein' late to a meetin' ain't fun,” Marisa agreed. “Don't worry, the two of us'll be fine. You guys get goin'.”

Hikan nodded and made his way out. “Stay safe, you two,” he said. “Keep in touch.” He made his way down the hall, Starlight and Shell following along. Arela looked back at the others, smiled and waved, then followed Hikan, Starlight and Shell out the door.

The walk down to Main street was mostly uneventful, though more than a few strange looks were thrown towards the group. Hikan let out a sigh. “That… took way longer than it should have,” he muttered as they walked along.

“Maybe we should have had Gaelle draw us a map,” Shell pointed out, her disguise in place.

“It certainly would have been helpful,” Arela concurred, holding Hikan's hand.

Starlight chuckled. “For all his careful planning, Hikan usually forgets the smallest details,” she said jokingly.

“Hey, at least I got us here,” the hunter said in retaliation. “Now… we just have to find a place to get some new attire… preferably something that isn't going to get torn up so easily.”

Arela then noticed a familiar building in the distance. She pointed to it. “Isn't that that Carousel Boutique from Ponyville?” she queried. “If so, I'm sure we'll find some really good clothes there.”

Hikan blinked before looking toward the store front… only to then slam his hand into his face. “Right… Rarity has three shops in Equestria…” he muttered into his hand before sliding it down his face. “But I forget who runs this one…”

“Well, at least we'll know the quality will be good, right?” Arela pointed out.

“That is very true,” Starlight said. “Rarity wouldn't let just anyone run her shop, and she would definitely make sure they understand the quality of her shop.”

“That was the vibe I got from her,” Arela concurred, snuggling more into Hikan, before she gained an idea. She muttered a word too low for any of them to hear, and then Starlight heard a voice in her mind. 'Why don't you grab his other arm~?'

Starlight blinked a moment before looking towards the angel. A little grin lit up her face before she grabbed onto Hikan's other arm, staggering him a little. “Wha!? What's gotten into you Starlight?” He questioned, raising an eyebrow.

“Ohhh, nothing,” she said, giving a giggle and sharing a secretive wink with Arela before starting to tug on him. “C'mon, we need to stay on schedule!” Hikan started to stagger as he was dragged along.

Arela giggled as she followed, still holding onto Hikan’s other arm. 'Good job, Starlight. You're on the right track. Expect more opportunities~.'

They reached the doors in no time and upon entering found themselves in a shop that looked much like the store in Ponyville, if not a bit bigger on the inside. “Welcome to Canterlot Boutique, home to the best couture in Canterlot!” A blue unicorn with a ginger mane said. She had a dark gray top with short black sleeves and a short black skirt with large triangular cutouts on the edge. Each point of the skirt had gold buttons on it, and she had a gold belt around her waist. “How can I help yo-...” She started as she turned, only to trail off when she saw them. Arela waved, smiling.

“Hello!” she said cheerily.

“Um…” the unicorn murmured before she shook her head and looked up with a slightly wavered smile. “Hello. I'm Sassy Saddles. How can I help you all?”

“Well,” Hikan said, glancing down at the hole in his shirt. “We need new clothing. Ours keep getting… mistreated.”

“I can see that…” Sassy said, looking the man's outfit up and down, pausing for a moment over his well-toned abdomen before shaking her head. “B-but I should be able to make something that will fit all of you with no problem.”

“Oh, wonderful! I could use a good few sets of clothes,” Arela said, looking up to Hikan. “Some very specific ones, too~.”

Hikan looked at her for a moment before he blushed a little and looked back towards Sassy.

“Thank you,” he said. “Also, is there any way to make these outfits a bit more… durable?”

Sassy blinked at that before closing her eyes and waving her hand dismissively. “I don't want to know,” she muttered to herself before looking up again. “I can almost guarantee that our clothing will never wear down. That's our promise. And if you do somehow manage to damage anything, we do offer free patch jobs as part of the guarantee.”

“Wonderful!” Arela said with a wide smile. She looked to Starlight. 'Why don't you secretly grab a few specific clothes for later, too~?'

Starlight blinked as she heard the voice, only to glance at Arela with a little smile and tap Hikan's arm with her index finger to signal back. “Well, who would like to go first?” Sassy asked, stepping forward and clasping her hands together.

“Why don't you go, my love?” Arela suggested.

“Alright,” Hikan said, giving a little smile. “But first… you two have to let go of me.”

“Alright then,” Arela said, letting go. Starlight let go as well, backing up a bit as Hikan stepped forward.

“Right this way, sir,” Sassy said, leading him towards the back of the shop where a curtained off area sat. The mare opened the curtains to let the man walk in before following and closing the curtain behind them.

“So…” Arela said, turning to Starlight. “…Any ideas on what kind of specific clothes we should get? I'm… honestly not used to this stuff. I'm kinda just doing what I've seen other girls do.”

“Honestly, I don't really know, either,” Starlight answered, looking towards the angel. “I've never actually been with anyone before…”

“He likes lace,” Shell suddenly spoke up, a finger to her chin as she looked to the ceiling, drawing a wide-eyed look from Starlight that was both surprised and confused. “And a very basic long sleeve shirt with most of the buttons undone and nothing underneath but panties…” Arela blushed at this.

“H-How-?” she began.

“Huh?” Shell questioned, looking back down. “What do you mean?”

“How do you know that?” Arela queried.

Shell looked at her for a long moment before her eyes widened. “O-Oh, u-um...,” she started, pressing her fingers together. “W-When Hikan pulled me out of the brute we, um… w-we…”

“You saw into his mind…” Arela put together, eyes a little wide as well.

Shell hesitated a moment before she nodded her head. “I-I think that's why I like m-my name…” she said softly. “And… and why my colours changed….”

“I see…” Arela said slowly.

“I-I'm sorry,” Shell said, looking even more nervous now, maybe even fearful. “You're… you're not mad are you…?” Arela shook her head.

“From what you described, you couldn't really help it,” Arela said with a smile, before grinning. “On another note, we now know what Hikan likes~.”

Shell let out a breath before looking up with a smile. “Thank you, Lady Arela,” she said, her nerves seeming to evaporate.

“Of course, Shell,” Arela said with a smile. Shell smiled before the curtains drew back and Sassy stepped out with a proud grin. Hikan followed her out, wearing something almost completely different. His boots came up higher on his shins, but retained the dark tan coloration of the originals, his cargo pants being swapped out for a baggier pair with black straps that ran from his belt down into his boots. He wore a vest that was black down the middle with dull green. A pair of dark brown belts held the vest tight against his waist, his knives, tristaff, and pouch hanging off of them. A black chest piece buckled to his upper chest, going from his sternum up to his collarbone while a pair of brown, loose wristed, fingerless gloves rested on his hands, buckled around his wrists, black sleeves lacing up to his biceps. Finally, a tan collared cloak fell around his shoulders, the collar and sides lined with long gray fur.

“What do you guys think?” Hikan asked, giving a little grin. Arela grinned.

“You look dashing, my love,” she said, walking over and giving him a peck on the cheek.

“I have to say,” Starlight said, walking around him. “It is quite the upgrade.”

“I have to agree with Lady Arela,” Shell said, giving a little smile.

Hikan grinned a bit wider before looking at Sassy Saddles. “Guess you hit this one right on the money,” he said.

The unicorn smiled a little wider. “Well, Miss Rarity does value quality and customer satisfaction over everything else,” she said before looking at the others. “Who's next?”

“Why don't you go next, Starlight?” Arela said, winking at her.

Before Starlight could answer though, Hikan heard a crackling in his ear as the earpiece he was wearing started to receive a signal from one of the other two. He put up a hand as he hovered his other one near his ear in case he needed to respond. “Um, hello?” Daiyousei's voice came over the earpiece.

Hikan pressed on his earpiece. “You've got Hikan,” he said into the device. “What's up, Dai?”

“You've got Alexandria too,” Alexandria's voice added a moment later.

“Um, I thought I would just tell you that me and Marisa are leaving the apartment,” Daiyousei answered. “Marisa locked the door and put the key back where Gaelle got it from.”

“Okay, Dai,” Hikan said, looking towards the others. “Just make sure you guys get home before dark and if anything happens, let us know.”

“And tell Marisa to try and stay out of trouble,” Alexandria added.

“Um, alright,” Daiyousei said before the earpiece fell silent again.

Hikan dropped his hand from his ear before Starlight spoke up. “Is something wrong?” She asked, the hunter shaking his head in response.

“No, not unless Daiyousei and Marisa running off together is wrong,” he said giving a shrug. “But you should probably get to work getting some clothes, Star.”

“Oh, right,” the purple unicorn said with a nervous chuckle before looking at Sassy. “Lead the way.”

Sassy smiled and nodded her head, leading Starlight to the curtained area before they both disappeared. Arela kept holding onto Hikan, nuzzling him a little. Hikan chuckled and wrapped an arm and a wing around Arela… before something gently tapped on her behind. She yelped and jumped a little at the foreign feeling, looking down to see what it was. A black, scaly tail swished through the air before shooting back under Hikan's cloak, the orange under scales flashing as the man gave an innocent whistle.

Arela gave an adorable pout and punched him lightly in the arm. “That was rude,” she said unconvincingly.

“Owww,” Hikan whined jokingly before chuckling. “Sorry, just been waiting for a chance at that. Figured stretching my new tail would be as good a time as any.” Arela went silent as she nuzzled back into his arm.

“So… You like lacy underwear?” she asked, teasing him back.

Hikan looked at her with a face of surprise. “How did you…” he started before his eyes widened and he looked towards Shell. He put a hand to his chest and gave a false look of betrayal. “Et tu, Shell?” He questioned.

“Umm…” Shell murmured before she chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of her head. Arela giggled.

Hikan chuckled as well. “But in answer to your question,” he said, turning back to Arela… before giving a smirk and leaned down so he was eye level with her. “I guess you're just going to have to find out…” She felt a pleasurable shiver crawl up her spine at that.

The hunter's smirk turned to a grin as he chuckled and straightened back up. “So, what are you thinking about our newest additions?” He asked.

“Well, much as I may dislike having a Fallen Angel in our group, I've learned to be more accepting. She seems useful, either way,” Arela replied.

Hikan nodded. “I'm glad to hear that,” he said, before pulling her into a hug and giving her a quick kiss on the crown of her head. “I'm proud of you.” Arela smiled, nuzzling into Hikan more.

Hikan rubbed her arm a bit as they waited. After a few more minutes, the curtains opened up and Starlight walked out wearing completely new clothing. She wore a three layered white skirt with frilled teal trim. Her top was the same color, showing off her midriff while scarf-like articles started on the back of her shoulders, wrapped under her arms and over her breasts, crossing at her collarbone before trailing off behind her. The layered cloak added over it was also new, being a dark blue, almost black, with the solid trim being the same teal color. A clasp kept it in place around her neck and shoulders. Atop her head was a wizard's hat, teal trim on it as well as a gold insignia.

“What do you guys think?” She asked, giving a spin and a mischievous grin.

“You look good, Starlight,” Arela complimented.

“Very witch-like,” Hikan joked, receiving a dirty look from the mare in return.

“That would be 'mage-like' to you,” she said, her horn lighting up alongside her finger before she flicked the air. A thump sounded out and Hikan suddenly grabbed his forehead with his free hand.

“Wha- owww!” Hikan exclaimed, actually in a small bit of pain this time. “That's not cool.”

“That was a bit insensitive, love,” Arela concurred.

“Noted,” he replied, still rubbing his forehead before lowering his hand and looking between Shell and Arela. “Anyway, you two are the only ones left.”

“I'll go next, then,” Arela said, moving towards the curtains. Sassy followed behind her with a little grin on her face. Once behind the curtains, the drapes drew shut.

Hikan turned to look towards Starlight. “Not to be a nitpicker,” he began. “But where's Cataclysm? I haven't seen him since we left Gaelle's place.”

“Oh!” Starlight said before giving a smile. “That's because he's picked up a new trick! Show him, Cat.” She lifted up her cloak and it seemed to shift a bit. Hikan raised his eyebrow at this.

“Star, what're you-” A sudden weight slammed into his chest and sent him backwards onto the ground. The man's eyes widened in surprise for a moment before he reared his arm back and Dorkifu's claws formed.

“Hikan, stop!” A turquoise aura suddenly lit up over his arm and stopped him dead. The man looked up at Starlight, his eyes wide. “It's just Cataclysm.”

The man looked towards his chest in time to see the light shimmer and the Nil Dragon become visible on his chest… and he was more than a little bigger than before. “...How…?”

“As far as I can tell,” Starlight replied. “Cataclysm is starting to adapt to the elements of light and darkness.”

“Darkness?” Shell questioned. “How did you come to that conclusion?”

Starlight gave a grin. “Cat, show 'em.” Cataclysm's red eyes shone for a moment before the demon was engulfed in dark, shifting mists, nothing visible except his eyes which seemed to glow. The cloud of shadow jumped off Hikan, no pressure coming to him as it launched towards Shell and passed around her harmlessly. The shadows drifted away from them and went to Starlight's shoulders before solidifying into the Nil Dragon once more. The little beast gave a yawn before settling back down on her shoulders.

Then, Arela came out wearing a frilly victorian style, short golden dress with lacey white frills and a small tail in the back of it, covering her posterior a little further. She had high heels on and was playing with her hands in nervousness, blushing.

“D-D-Do I look good?” she asked timidly.

Hikan gave a smile. “Absolutely great,” he answered. “It's very nice,” Starlight said, looking the dress up and down with a light smile. “It suits you!”

“It's very beautiful, Lady Arela,” Shell replied, reaching her hand behind her back to grab her other arm. Arela smiled wide, blush receding.

“Thanks,” she said, walking up to Hikan and giving him a kiss.

He smiled and put an arm around his Devoted before looking towards Shell. “You're up next,” he said with a smile.

“O-Oh,” the disguised Changeling murmured, bring her fingernails to her lips. “Um, okay.” She walks forward and Sassy gives her a comforting smile as she begins to lead her back.

“No need to be nervous,” the blue unicorn said as they passed through the curtains. “There's nothing to it.” With that, the curtains closed once more.

Arela wrapped her arms around one of Hikan's, smiling as she nuzzled him. The assassin smiled down at her, reaching across his body and rubbing her shoulder. Arela hummed in content, then glanced back at Starlight and shot her a knowing wink, telling her to join in. Starlight gave a little smile before walking over and wrapping her arms around the man's other arm. Hikan started a bit, looking to the unicorn in surprise… before giving a mischievous smirk.

Black and orange wings unfurled from under Hikan's cloak before wrapping around the angel and mare, pulling them in closer. Arela simply giggled at Starlight's blushing face as she returned the wing hug. Hikan chuckled, too, pulling his wings a little tighter before simply residing himself to silence as they waited.

After a few more moments, the curtains opened and Shell walked out once more, wearing her own new clothing. She wore a bluish-purple blouse lined in black that hugged her body well. The piece hung down in the front to form two points over the front of her thighs, two more coattail-like decorations that changed to scarlet near the end falling down behind her. A pair of black short shorts kept her modest while a light purple cloth hung down the front between the shorts and blouse, a longer section mirroring it on the rear. A pair of thigh high, cuffed boots completed her look.

The disguised changeling said nothing, only pressing her forefingers together as the others looked her over. Arela smiled and walked over, giving the changeling a quick hug.

“You look beautiful, tylin,” Arela said warmly.

Shell gave a little eep before a little blush lit up her face. Starlight looked at them for a second before giving a little giggle, lifting her knuckle to her lips. Hikan just smiled before looking towards Sassy Saddles. “Thanks for all the help, Ms. Saddles,” he said, the mare in question throwing him a smile.

“It's no problem,” she answered with a little wave. “It's why we're here after all.”

Hikan grinned in return and nodded. “I think that about does it for us,” he said before looking to the ladies with a glint in his eye. “Unless you girls want to do some… special shopping while I step outside…”

Arela blushed at being found out, stammering away like a broken record. Starlight blushed as well as Shell blinked in confusion until that slowly shifted to embarrassment, her face lighting up even more than the others. Hikan gave a laugh before reaching into his pouch and pulling out several precious gems and gold coins and holding them out to Sassy, the mare staring with wide eyes as the payment was placed in her hand. “I'm going to go outside to wave down Alex and the others when they come by,” he said, turning and starting to walk towards the doors. “You guys… go nuts.” With that and a cheeky grin, he slipped out of the doors.

He stepped out of the way of the doors and leaned on the storefront wall. Arela looked to Starlight, blushing still.

“Well, I guess we uh… Should get this rolling, right?” Arela said, breaking the silence.

Starlight remained silent as her face continued to glow, the mare simply nodding and walking further into the store. Sassy simply stood back and watched them, occasionally glancing at Shell as the mare had practically frozen in place.

Outside, it took several minutes before Alexandria, Ayis, Gaelle and Garrick came into view further down the street. “Hey, guys,” Hikan greeted as they got close, pushing himself off the wall. “How'd it go?”

“No STDs, thank Triyte,” Ayis answered.

“Even though it's too early to tell the gender, the baby's healthy,” Alexandria added. “And apparently half unicorn.”

Hikan blinked at Alexandria's final addition but shook it off and grinned. “Well, that's the best news I think I've ever gotten,” he said, looking between them before nodding his head to the door. “The others are inside doing some… extracurricular shopping. Go on in and get yourself something that's actually comfortable. I'll take care of the expenses when everyone's done.”

“Alright, cool,” Ayis said, heading inside. Alexandria simply followed. Starlight wasn't anywhere to be seen, but some rustling in the back gave away her position. Meanwhile, Sassy still stood off to the side, her worried look falling over Shell every now and again as the mare was still frozen in place. “Helloooo?” Ayis called out to Sassy as she entered. “Could I maybe get some service?”

Sassy jumped a bit and turned to face the two. “Oh, sorry,” she said, walking forward a bit. “Just… she's been standing there like that for a while now. Anyway, how can I help you?”

“Well, as you can plainly see,” Ayis started, gesturing to herself. “I need an entire outfit, underwear and everything. I had a bad run-in with some unsavory types. Anyway, think you could hook me up with some clothes?”

“Of course,” the blue unicorn answered, giving a bit of a smile. “If you'd follow me I can get you something just right for you.”

“That'd be great,” Ayis said with a nod, following Sassy behind the curtain at the back of the shop. After the two had disappeared, Alexandria looked to Shell, who was still frozen. She approached the motionless Changeling.

“Hey Shell, you okay?” she asked, giving her a nudge. The Changeling eep'd loudly and jumped, almost hitting the ceiling above her before she landed on her hindquarters.

“Oww…” the disguised mare muttered, sitting on the ground before she looked up. “What happened?”

“…I don't know, I only got here maybe a minute ago,” Alexandria answered, giving Shell a look and raising an eyebrow. “But it looked to me like you were frozen up. I wanted to make sure you were doing okay.”

Shell blinked before a much smaller blush lit her features. “Oh, u-um,” she stuttered for a moment. “Y-yes, I'm fine…”

“If you say so…” Alexandria responded slowly before turning back towards the curtain, waiting for Ayis. After several moments, the curtains opened up and Sassy walked out with Ayis not far behind.

The Fallen Angel now sported a black vest with a navy blue hood, her dual tone long sleeve undershirt having black, silver studded belts wrapped and buckled loosely to her navy blue sleeves in a zigzag pattern and the black collar that came up to her chin. A short, three layered skirt was held to her waist by a black belt with a large silver buckle, the layers on her frilled skirt alternating between black and navy. Black fingerless gloves covered her hands while black stockings with violet longways stripes covered her legs up to her thighs, two more black and silver buckled bands wrapped around each thigh to keep them up. Black, heavy-looking combat boots finished off the punk goth look.

“Wow,” Alexandria commented, her eyebrows raised. “You actually look pretty threatening like that.” Ayis grinned.

“Heh, I always do. Gotta give our enemies something to be scared of, ya know?” Ayis replied, doing a little pose.

The rustling in the back of the shop came to a stop and Starlight came out of the back, something in her hands. Upon noticing the others, she quickly hid whatever garment she had behind her back. “O-Oh, hey girls…” the unicorn greeted with a nervous chuckle. “Uh… when did you guys get here?” Arela came out as well, but hadn't noticed the others as she looked at her set of lacy golden underwear.

“We arrived just a few minutes ago,” Alexandria said before looking to Arela. “…And what would those be for, huh Arela?”

“Huh?” Arela looked to see the others there, and blushed a bright, cherry red, quickly stowing the underwear behind her. “N-N-N-N-Nothing! Nothing at all!”

“Riiiiiiiight…” Alexandria said, clearly unconvinced. “Anyway… If we're all done here, we should probably go find Marisa again, make sure she isn't causing too much trouble.” Suddenly, at that moment, a loud scratching and fumbling came over Hikan and Alexandria's earpieces. After a few moments of that, Marisa's voice replaced the noise.

“I need a big open area that we can meet in, like, now,” she said quickly.

“What about our base-?” Ayis began to say. Alexandria put a hand up to interrupt Ayis.

“Nevermind that,” she sighed in exasperation. “It sounds like Marisa's gone and found herself some trouble already…”

The bell over the door banged as Hikan rushed in, hand already coming out of his pouch. “For whatever they picked up,” he said briskly, his 'dark' tone back in full force as he handed Sassy more gold and gems before looking to the others. “Give whatever you bought to Gaelle and let's go.” He didn’t wait for an answer from anyone, simply turned on his heel and left the store in a hurry, the door barely having time to swing shut before he swung it open again and pressed a hand to his earpiece. “We're on our way, Marisa, just hold on.”

Ayis was still holding Hikan's coat and handed it off to Starlight, who was the nearest to her. “Finally, some action,” she said, quickly leaving the shop as Marisa's voice came over the earpiece again.

“That's great and all Hikan, but I still need an open area to head towards,” she said. “Preferably right now.” Alexandria frowned and followed Ayis and Hikan out of the shop.

Hikan tsk'd and summoned a will-o'-wisp to his hand as he ran, the orb giving a faint glow that showed him a map of the city and three orange dots, two of which were extremely close to one another. His other hand waved over the map for a few seconds before zooming in on what looked like an abandoned construction zone. “Marisa, to the southeast of your position is a construction zone. Head there and we'll meet you.”

“Gotcha,” Marisa answered. “And when you get here, be ready for a tough and unpleasant battle. Trust me, this ain't gonna be fun.”

Hikan fell silent and looked back at his group. “...We'll be ready,” he said into the communicator. “For right now, don't worry about us, just keep yourself safe.”

“Yup, one step ahead'a ya,” Marisa answered before the earpiece went silent.

“Where to?” Arela queried, eyes hardening.

“There's a construction site a few blocks to our northwest,” Hikan answered, his wings unfurling as he ran. “Marisa's in trouble and we have to hurry.” With that, he jumped into the air and took off towards the construction.

“Marisa sounded unsettled,” Alexandria added. “Nothing has ever unsettled her before. Whatever it is, it must be nasty. Be prepared for the worst.” After giving that warning, Alexandria also took to the air, following Hikan. Arela did the same, along with Ayis.

“Hope it's big. I like killing big guys. Lots of places to stab 'em,” Ayis said eagerly.

Shell flew after Ayis, giving a little shudder. “Let's just hope they're not very powerful…” she murmured.

“Agreed,” Arela concurred.

“If they weren't very powerful,” Alexandria commented. “Then Marisa wouldn't be worried. She's more than capable of taking on some really powerful opponents on her own, so something that forces her to ask for help must be incredibly powerful.”

“Sweet~” Ayis said with a cocky grin.

Hikan just frowned at this, a whirring sound filling the air as Dorkifu's clawed gauntlets formed. “We need to hurry,” he said before adding on an extra burst of speed. Alexandria raised an eyebrow before silently accelerating in order to keep up. Arela and Ayis did the same, speeding up and following after the others.

Within a few minutes, Hikan and the others flew into view of the construction site. They saw Daiyousei standing in front of Marisa, facing a strange woman that none of them had seen before.

The woman's hair and eyes were a similar green to Daiyousei's, her hair almost down to her thighs. She was wearing a long, dark blue robe that had a white band along the skirt hem and long, white sleeves as well as a long cape of the same dark blue colour. She had a dark blue, conical cap on her head which had a large, yellow sun design on it off to one side, the design partially cut off by the bottom of the hat. In her hands, she was holding what could be described as a scepter with a large, silver crescent shape attached to the end. It could also be noted that the woman seemed to be floating above the ground, and the group couldn't see her legs.

After a few moments, the woman then took her scepter and swung it towards Daiyousei. A beam was fired from between the points of the crescent and, to the group's horror, pierced straight through Daiyousei's abdomen. After a couple moments, Daiyousei then exploded into millions of tiny, white particles of light which dispersed into the air and vanished.

A roar of rage ripped through the air alongside the sudden sound of boosters as Hikan rushed the green haired woman, claws reared back. The woman's head whipped towards the sound and she then dodged to the side. “Oh my,” the woman said, turning to Marisa. “Are these the kind of people my apprentice is associating with?”

“I ain't your apprentice anymore Mima!” Marisa shouted back to the woman as Alexandria landed behind Marisa. “I haven't been for a very long time. I've taken my own path in life.”

“I guess so,” Mima responded with a smirk. “No apprentice of mine would ever ask for help.”

Another growl rent the air as metallic ringing filled it, Hikan's claws flashing towards Mima's smirking face.

“Impatient whelp,” Mima snarled, pointing her scepter at Hikan, a very forceful blast of magical energy erupting right in front of him a moment later. “Learn your damned place!”

“LEARN YOURS, BITCH!” A voice suddenly yelled from behind Mima before a beam of turquoise magic exploded into her back.

“URNK-!” Mima grunted as the force of the attack pushed her forward. “I already know my place!” she growled as she turned quickly to face Starlight, raising her scepter over her head. “And it's far above mortals like you!” She then brought the scepter down, the ground under Starlight's feet exploding violently.

Arela rushed forwards, halberd poised to slice Mima's head clean off. When the woman dodged the attack, Arela smirked, and the woman screamed in pain as she felt two sais enter her back.

“Take this, bitch!” Ayis growled as Arela made to charge once more, this time determined to slice off Mima's head.

“Get off me!” Mima shouted, blindsiding Ayis with her scepter, knocking her away before pointing the scepter at her and swinging it to point at Arela, tossing the one angel into the other, the two sais still sticking out of her back the whole time.

Green light filled the air before bolts of condensed eldritch flames slammed into Mima's back, using the sais as conductive rods for the magic. Mima winced as she waved her scepter, the sais ejecting from her back. “Pest!” she yelled, lunging at Shell and bringing the scepter down on her head.

A loud crack sounded out before the Changeling could react, her eyes rolling up before she slumped to the ground. “Hmph,” Mima said, pointing her scepter at the unconscious Changeling, tossing her to the side like a ragdoll.

“Stop it, now!” Marisa shouted, stepping forward. But before she could do anything, white light began to coalesce between them. After several moments, there was a small flash, which faded to reveal Daiyousei, perfectly unharmed.

“Oooooow… That really hurt…” Daiyousei whined, clutching her stomach, her eyes squeezed shut and her brows furrowed. Hikan groaned as he got to his hands and knees.

“Dai…? How…?” He questioned as he got up to his feet.

“She's a Fairy,” Alexandria answered. “Fairies don't die permanently. Instead, if they die, they reincarnate after a minute or so.”

“It still really hurts though…” Daiyousei added, taking her hands off her abdomen and opening her eyes to look at Mima angrily. “I'll teach you for messing with a Greater Fairy! Take this!” She then threw her hands up, a flurry of bright green kunai-shaped objects spurting out towards Mima.

“A Greater Fairy is no different from a normal Fairy in my eyes: neither is anywhere near a match for me,” Mima retorted simply, swishing her scepter in front of her, all the kunai getting swept aside.

“Unfortunately, she's right Dai,” Marisa said, stepping in front of Daiyousei. “Let me handle this.” Daiyousei nodded and stepped back.

“Finally. Let's see if you've managed to surpass your mentor,” Mima started with a grin. “…Or if you're nothing but a weakling still.”

“I ain't no pushover!” Marisa shouted, immediately firing several small beams at Mima. Mima threaded between the beams.

“We'll see about that,” she said. She then retaliated with several orbs of condensed magic, which homed in on Marisa. Marisa hopped on her broomstick and took to the air, the orbs following her. As she fled from the orbs, she fired some quick blasts of magic back at Mima.

“Take this!” she shouted. Mima took her scepter and caught the magic missiles in the crescent before flinging them back at Marisa.

“Sorry, they're yours,” Mima stated tauntingly. Marisa dodged her own magic missiles, Mima's orbs dissipating a moment later.

“Urgh, I'll just have to get serious,” Marisa said, pulling out the strange device from under her hat. The device began to charge up as she pointed it at Mima.

Mima simply laughed loudly at this. “Do you take me for a fool?” she asked. “There's no way I'll let you get that attack off!” She then pointed her scepter at Marisa, who promptly got blown out of the sky by a blast of magic.

“Gah!” Marisa screamed as she was knocked off her broomstick, her device falling from her hand to the ground.

A blur of motion and the sound of flapping wings met Marisa, catching her midair. “Need a hand?” Hikan questioned, hovering in place.

“Thanks…” Marisa said, her broomstick clattering to the ground next to the device. “I didn't expect her to interrupt my Spark like that.”

“Hmph, it seems you are just a weakling still,” Mima taunted. Alexandria's eyes narrowed and her brows furrowed.

“Fine,” she said. “My turn.” She turned to Shanghai. “Shanghai, HDD please.” Shanghai nodded her head before activating HDD. After the light dissipated, she drew her broadsword… Except for the first time, everyone noticed that it wasn't a broadsword in her HDD form. Instead, it appeared to be a long rapier with a fancy, intricately styled guard curving over the pure white grip. Meanwhile, the blade, guard and pommel were all a lustrous silvery colour with a golden tinge, resembling white gold. The shining metal that caught the sunlight was a massive contrast to the dull iron of the unremarkable broadsword she had in her normal form.

“I will strike you down for hurting our friends,” Shanghai announced to Mima, tightening her grip on the rapier she held one-handed in her right hand. “Take this!” She then rushed Mima, rapier reared back, point twinkling in the sun.

“Idiot…” Mima muttered, quickly flicking her scepter to cause a small magical explosion on Shanghai… But Shanghai simply charged through it, utterly unaffected. Mima's eyes widened, caught by surprise and she failed to avoid Shanghai's flurry of strikes.

Shanghai struck Mima several times in quick succession with her rapier before rearing back. “With my Aku no Tsuihō, I will banish you to the netherworld!” Shanghai shouted before lunging forward with a powerful jab, striking Mima before she could recover from the previous assault.

“Urk…” Mima grunted. “Damned pest… Why won't you just die!?” Mima swept her scepter at the Fairy, a series of magical explosions erupting on Shanghai. However, Shanghai was completely unfazed by them.

Meanwhile, Alexandria noticed Marisa's dropped device. She went over and picked it up. Remembering something from a while ago, she had an idea. She whispered something into the device and pointed it at Mima before bracing herself as power began to build in the device.

“What are you!?” Mima snarled in frustration at Shanghai.

“A Fairy, plain and simple,” Shanghai answered.

“Impossible,” Mima said, shaking her head. “A mere Fairy can't possibly be unaffected by my magic.”

“I'm not a 'mere' Fairy,” Shanghai retorted. “Now, prepare yourself!” Shanghai then continued to attack Mima with her rapier, Mima attempting to dodge the strikes, but Shanghai was surprisingly adept and swift with the weapon, landing blow after blow.

After a good thirty seconds or so, Alexandria suddenly shouted at the top of her lungs. “CLEAR OUT!!!” Shanghai ignored Alexandria, continuing to assault Mima, which prevented Mima from making an escape. Arela and Ayis looked to the glowing device in Alexandria's grasp, and promptly moved out of the blast range.

Hikan turned and his eyes widened before he flew off, still holding onto Marisa. “Star, grab Shell!”

“Rodger!” The unicorn answered, teleporting to the Changeling's side and grabbing her before another blink made the pair disappear.

Just as everyone cleared out, the device exploded with power.

Lightning Sign [Mighty Thunderbolt]

A massive, 2-foot thick lightning bolt fired from the face of the device, going through Shanghai straight to Mima where it hit hard.

“HRAAAAGH!!” Mima screamed as the bolt struck her.

“Ouch…!” Alexandria said, dropping the searing hot device after the bolt dissipated.

“Damn you…” Mima snarled darkly as she got back up. “You messed with the wrong spirit…” Alexandria's eyes widened in surprise as Mima swung her scepter to point at her. “I'll bury you where you stand!” Mima shouted, unleashing a beam not too dissimilar from Marisa's Master Spark. Alexandria was too surprised to avoid it in time.

“Agh…!” she shouted as the attack hit her.

“Ngah…!” Shanghai grunted in pain, flinching and recoiling from the blow Alexandria took.

“Alex! Squirt!” Ayis cried, and before anyone could stop her, she summoned her sais once more, and rushed at Mima, and when the woman turned to stop her, Ayis crossed her sais together, and magic Mima had never seen before glowed around the sais, building rapidly. “JUDGEMENT OF THE WASTES!” Ayis roared, and a gigantic sword of edged bone, held by two phantasmal, skeletal hands, slammed down towards the spirit, erupting in a shower of blackish purple magic.

While Ayis was doing all this, Shanghai shook her head, regaining her focus. “You…” she growled, sounding genuinely pissed off as she gripped her rapier and held it vertically in front of herself. “I will damn you to Hell myself!”

Aku no Tsuihō [The Doll's Judgment]

The blade of the rapier erupted with both flame and electricity. Shanghai then lunged at Mima, slashing her with a renewed vigor and swiftness, striking hundreds of times in a matter of seconds, each blow simultaneously exploding and erupting into sparks on impact. Shanghai then drew back and struck one final time with extra force, the attack coinciding perfectly with Ayis' spell.

“AAARGH!” Mima shouted, falling to the ground. It was at this time that everyone finally noticed that she didn't have legs, but rather a spectral tail under the robe. “This… Isn't the last you'll see of me…” Mima muttered in a strained voice. “I'll be back… To get my revenge…” With that ominous threat, Mima slowly faded away.

After completing her powerful Spellcard, Shanghai reverted to her normal form, her broadsword in its sheath. She put a hand to her head and wobbled in midair dizzily before dropping to the ground unconscious. Ayis rushed over to her, looking her over and sighing in relief when she found that she was unharmed. She then looked to Arela.

“Take her, please, I need to see my girlfriend,” she said. Arela nodded and did so as Ayis briskly moved to Alexandria, checking her over. While Ayis was looking her over, Alexandria then came to, putting a hand to her head as her eyes scrunched and her brows furrowed.

“Uuuuuugh…” she groaned. “That hurt pretty bad…” She then opened her eyes and started with a sharp intake of breath when she saw Ayis over her.

“Calm down, Alex. It's just me,” Ayis said softly. “How do you feel?”

Alexandria paused for a moment before sighing. “To be honest?” she began. “Very very sore.”

“Anything else? Any stinging pains in your body?” Ayis asked next.

Alexandria shook her head as she sat up slowly. “Just a lot of soreness.” Ayis breathed a sigh of relief.

“Thank Triyte…” she said, before placing her hands over Alexandria's chest. “Stay still, I'm going to give you a little pick-me-up.” Alexandria remained silent and still. Then, a greenish-golden glow surrounded Ayis' hands, and then Alexandria, and the soreness in her body died down. Alexandria gave a breath of laughter.

“I'm sure Daiyousei could have easily done the same thing…” she commented in good humor. Ayis gave a cocky grin.

“I'm still sexier than her, though. Like a hot nurse,” Ayis said, winking at Alexandria.

“Riight,” Alexandria said with a smile, just a little teasingly before her face turned more serious and she looked around. “…Where's Shanghai? She should have been right on me, worrying her little guts out by now.”

“Over there with Arela,” Ayis said, pointing to the two. Alexandria stood up and made her way to Arela quickly. She noticed that Shanghai was unconscious as she approached.

“Shanghai…!?” she said, her eyes widening as she grabbed the little Fairy and held her carefully. “W-What… Happened…!? Is she going to be okay!?”

“She's fine, just tired. She used a lot of power to help Ayis finish off Mima,” Arela explained. Alexandria let out a huge sigh, tears of relief forming in her eyes.

“Thank Heaven…” she whispered. “If I'd lost her, I… I…” Ayis put a hand on her shoulder.

“Don't worry about it. It's over now,” Ayis said warmly.

“…Right,” Alexandria said, gently placing Shanghai into the pocket on her dress and wiping the tears from her eyes. “I think we should go about building our base then. Shanghai needs somewhere to rest.”

“Hey, why don't we build it right on this very plot?” Marisa said, her hat off her head. She was using it as a basket to carry her device which was undoubtedly still hot to the touch. “It's big, flat, and nobody else's usin' it. It's perfect, ain't it?”

“Hmmm… We'll likely have to ask the city planners if it's okay first, since this is a construction zone, but I'm sure Ronzul will be able to work it out. He has a lot of friends up in the construction business,” Ayis said.

“Guys!” Hikan's call rang out over the abandoned zone.

“What is it, my love?” Arela asked, walking over. Starlight cradled Shell's head in her lap, a stream of green blood flowing from her forehead and down her face. Hikan stood over them, his eyes going over the silk like purple mane that flowed from the Changeling's head where Shell's now broken helmet used to rest.

“We need to get her out of here,” Hikan said dully, much of the emotion gone from his voice.

Arela and Ayis rushed over. “By the Gods…” Arela breathed, tears forming in her eyes.

“What are we standing here for? Let's get her to a doctor quick!” Ayis urged.

“I-I'm supposed to be the healer, right?” Daiyousei said. “I've never tried to heal anything this bad before, but… Let me try first.” Without waiting for an answer, she knelt down next to Shell and put her hands on the Changeling.

Recovery [Healing Power]

As the familiar green glow spread onto Shell, the group watched as the blood flow slowed and the large gash partially coagulated. It didn't heal completely, but it wasn't as bad as it had been.

“She still isn't fully healed. She needs a doctor,” Arela affirmed.

“I, uh, I made things better though, didn't I…?” Daiyousei asked hesitantly. Hikan nodded his head and bent down and lifted the Changeling, cradling her gently as her head rested against his chest.

“You did,” he said quietly. “But she needs help now.” He started moving away. “Ayis, Alex, do you guys know the way to the clinic you guys went to?”

“Yeah, follow us!” Ayis said, taking off into the sky, Alexandria nodding as she followed suit, giving the 'come on' hand gesture. Hikan activated his boosters and raised into the air gently before hovering after them, trying to keep the flight as stable as possible for his ward. Starlight watched them go a little ways before a light turquoise glow surrounded her body and she floated into the air shakily before following after them. Marisa grabbed her broomstick off the ground and got on it.

“C'mon Dai, let's go,” she said to the Greater Fairy before taking off, upside-down hat still in hand. Daiyousei quickly followed Marisa, her wings flapping.

Arela quickly followed, spreading her wings and taking flight, ending up next to Hikan and casting a worried look to Shell.

It wasn't long before Ayis and Alexandria landed on the street just outside the clinic. “Here we are,” Alexandria said once Hikan landed next to her.

Hikan only nodded in response before he started to walk forward, only to be met as Truth Seer exited the building with his keys in hand. The good doctor jumped a bit when he looked up to see Hikan. The zebra looked at him, then to the Changeling in his arms before looking back up at the man. “Bring her inside,” he said simply, turning and opening the door once more.

“Thank you,” the hunter replied, quickly moving to head inside, Starlight following after him. Alexandria went to enter, but was stopped by Seer.

“Sorry, but could I please ask you to wait outside?” he asked. “I know you're worried, but I can only allow two to accompany the patient.” Alexandria was silent, nodding slowly after a few moments. Seer then entered the clinic, the door closing behind him. Ayis and Arela looked on with worry and concern, but conceded.

“…Looks like we're stuck playin' the waitin' game, huh?” Marisa said, making her landing next to Alexandria, Daiyousei also touching down nearby.

“Apparently, yes,” Arela concurred. There was an awkward silence after that for several seconds. Marisa went and sat on the ground, her back against the building.

“Sooooo…” she said slowly. “Got anythin' interestin' to talk about?”

“No, but I know a game we can play as we wait,” Ayis offered.

“I like games,” Daiyousei said. “What's it called?”

“'Charmed Hands',” Ayis answered.

“Ooh, that's a good one,” Arela commented.

“Of course it is. It's a game of my people,” Ayis said proudly. Arela rolled her eyes at this.

“How do you play?” Alexandria asked. Ayis waved her hands, and a small box of cards appeared in her hand.

“Well, first, we each take a deck of ten cards,” Ayis said, pulling a stack of cards out of the box. They all noted that the covers on the cards all had various pictures of handsome men and women, either in armor or scanty clothes and robes. A few had more respectable clothes, but all of them were very attractive. Marisa raised an eyebrow.

“That's an… 'interestin’' set of cards…” she commented.

“It is called Charmed Hands,” Ayis pointed out. “Anyways, it goes like this…” Ayis said, beginning to explain. After a good while of explaining, they all played a game, then two, then three. It seemed they had gotten really engrossed in the game, and at this point, they had started to make bets with more than just money, as the game required some form of betting.

Ayis had bet Alexandria a favor, whilst Arela had bet the last coin she had from Erevale, as she didn't want to bet anything else. Hence why she said she was going to stop playing after the current round.

“Come on, just bet your clothes or something. Or even some gems. I know you High Angels can make them on a whim,” Ayis urged. Arela shook her head firmly.

“No way am I betting my clothes, much less using my magic just to keep playing. That's just low,” Arela said.

“Ugh, fine,” Ayis turned to Alexandria. “So, whatcha got, babe? Any Temptresses?”

“Yeah…” Alexandria answered. Ayis grinned.

“Guess I win then, because…” Ayis showed the group her hand. “I got a Tribunal Crusade!” She cheered, showing them the three paladin cards she had. Arela groaned at this.

“Lithg dammit…” she cursed.

“Oh hush. I won fair and square, so cough it all up, ladies! Oh! And you owe me a favor, Alex,” Ayis said, grin growing.

“I'm… Oddly okay with that,” Alexandria responded, laying down her hand to reveal the two Temptresses in it. “Though I guess it depends on what you mean by 'favor'.”

“Heh, the two of you're suppose'ta be datin', right?” Marisa asked, paying up and receiving a nod from Alexandria. Marisa's grin widened as she helped Daiyousei count out the money she owed. “Then I guess the question is… Is it a favor or a 'favor'?” Marisa made air quotes on the last word. Ayis giggled.

“We'll just have to wait and see, won't we?” Ayis said teasingly.

The bell over the door to the clinic rang out as the door opened up and Starlight walked out, eyes on the ground. She let the door swing shut behind her. “...Arela… Hikan wants you in there…” she said quietly, not letting her voice above much else than a whisper. Arela nodded, placing her cards down and walking inside.

“Uh, hey Starlight,” Alexandria greeted awkwardly.

“So, you got kicked out in favor of the angel, huh?” Marisa asked bluntly.

Starlight shook her head numbly before sitting down, not saying anything else and not lifting her head.

“Um…” Daiyousei started, giving Starlight a worried look. “Are you okay…?”

Starlight was quiet for a moment. “...Shell's really hurt…” she said quietly. “Dr. Seer says she may have a major concussion and… he can't take care of her here… And he said that the hospital might not help because… because…”

“Starlight, calm down,” Alexandria said. “I'm sure everything will end up alright.”

“So the ponies at the hospital might be racist, and won't help,” Ayis summed up. Alexandria looked at Ayis.

“That's right, the ponies have some… bad views of the Changelings,” she said. She then turned back to Starlight. She was silent for several seconds, but looked like she was going to say something the whole time. Finally, she spoke up again. “Well, if they won't do their damn job, then I say fuck 'em. We'll just treat Shell ourselves if we have to.”

“We can take her to Ronzul. He was a field medic back in the War on Mt. Saintkiss in Lleiya, I'm sure he could help,” Ayis offered.

Starlight was quiet for a while before she looked up slowly towards the Fallen Angel. “…Dr. Seer wants to keep Shell for the night,” she said quietly. “He has a place inside where he and the others can rest… but thank you, Ayis. We'll… we'll have to come back tomorrow and make sure Hikan and Arela know…”

“Ah, the doc's keepin' her for the night,” Marisa said. “Then I guess we're stuck goin' back to Gaelle's place, huh? We'll haffta tell her that Hikan and Arela're stayin' here at the clinic tonight.”

Starlight nodded her head, getting back to her hooves. “Yeah, Cat's probably freaking out by now, too,” she said.

“Alright then,” Alexandria said, getting to her feet as well. “Let's get going to Gaelle's.” She then looked down at Shanghai, who was still out cold in her pocket. “Hopefully Shanghai will be feeling better in the morning…” she added worriedly.

“Yeah. I miss the Squirt's voice already,” Ayis agreed, standing up as well.

Starlight nodded her head before she started down the street, her head bowed towards the ground.

Alexandria, Marisa, Daiyousei and Ayis followed her. Alexandria ran to catch up with her. “Don't worry,” Alexandria said to Starlight. “Shell's going to make it through this, okay?”

The unicorn looked up to her friend before giving a small nod and an even smaller smile. “I hope so,” she said, looking back down the street. “I really hope so…”

Chapter 12 Author's Note

Remember that time I warned you guys about maybe putting that porn tag on this story... yeeeaaah, this time I'm upgrading the "viewer discretion is advised," to

VIEWER DISCRETION IS REQUIRED!!!!

Chapter 12

The next day, after Shell had been taken by Dr. Seer, Ayis and the others went to see her friend, Ronzul. She took them downtown, where they found a tunnel in an alleyway, which Ayis explained lead to Ronzul's home. The tunnel was masterfully made, and had seemingly no flaws in the stonework.

“This ain't creepy at all…” Marisa muttered sarcastically.

“No kidding…” Alexandria agreed.

“Alexandria, I'm scared…” Shanghai said, clutching tightly to Alexandria's shoulder.

“I'm scared too…” Daiyousei added, clinging to Marisa.

“Oh hush, Ronzul's a really nice guy. He just likes his privacy is all,” Ayis said as they arrived at a stone door, carvings of a stone and chisel on it. Ayis knocked on the door. “Hey, Ronzul, you in there?”

The door slid open to reveal a stocky, stout dwarf with a black beard and slight mullet, the beard braided thrice over. He looked up at Ayis, and the group noted he had tattoos on his arms, both of some strange form of runes.

“Ayis? What're ya doin' 'ere, lass?” he looked to the others. “And who are they? Friends?”

“It's a long story, but yeah, they're friends,” Ayis explained. Ronzul stroked his beard before shrugging.

“Well, git in 'ere, then. Jus' don't touch tha' soil samples,” Ronzul said, stepping aside to let them in. Ayis entered, the door just tall enough for her. Daiyousei stepped inside too, having no trouble due to being the exact same height as Ayis. Alexandria and Marisa looked at each other, both being taller than the doorway. Marisa shrugged and ducked inside. After a moment, Alexandria also ducked in. Starlight, hanging in the back and having stayed silent for most of the trip entered behind Alexandria.

Inside was a room made of concrete, though not a kind of concrete Starlight, Alexandria, Marisa or Dayousei were used to. For one, it was a much darker gray, and two, it had a much smoother feel to it. The concrete walls were decorated with intricate carvings and murals, and on a table in the middle of the room was a collective pile of soil samples, all of semi-differing shades of brown, with flags in them.

There were two other doorways on the left and right sides of the room, and straight in front of the group was a large number of stone shelves with glass jars of more soil samples. Ronzul walked over to the left doorway.

“This way, lassies,” he instructed, descending yet another staircase. Alexandria, Marisa, Daiyousei and Starlight were a bit hesitant, though Ayis followed without question. Alexandria looked at the other three standing with her before descending the staircase.

“Ugh, this just keeps gettin' creepier and creepier…” Marisa muttered as she entered the doorway and followed Alexandria down the stairs. Daiyousei continued to cling silently to Marisa's arm, shaking a little as she glanced around at the dark and gloomy concrete that comprised all the floors, walls, ceilings and even the stairs of the staircase. Starlight pulled her cloak tighter to her and felt Cataclysm shift on her back, the Nil Dragon reassuring her as she followed.

Ayis kept her wings close to her as they descended the stairs, and while they did, the smell of fire and the feeling of intense heat started to make them all sweat profusely. They arrived in a room with smelters pouring some kind of silvery metal into kilns, which had cement in them already. Ronzul walked past them and towards the door on the other side of the room, walking down a small aisle between the two channels of which the mixed minerals were flowing beneath and to some other room, behind another wall.

“Don' mind tha' Mixers, jus' try ta' stay in tha' aisle,” Ronzul instructed. “Don' want ya gittin' yer feet burned beyond repair.”

“Yeah…” Alexandria answered quietly as she cautiously walked down the aisle, eyeing the molten substance. “I doubt touching molten metal and rock feels all that pleasant…” Marisa carefully walked down the aisle behind Alexandria in silence. The aisle was too small for Daiyousei and Marisa to walk side by side, so Daiyousei had to let go of Marisa's arm. Instead of walking, Daiyousei used her wings to hover just above the floor of the aisle and crossed quickly, grabbing Marisa's arm again as soon as she was across. Starlight looked from one side to the other as she made her way across, still holding her cloak tight as her horn began to glow, followed soon after by the rest of her body and the outline of Cat on her back.

They descended another set of stairs, and arrived at what could be called a living room. There were polished black and white tiles with a loveseat sitting by a fireplace, most likely a gas one. The floor in front of the fireplace had a unique and slightly unsettling rug, made of the hide of some unknown beast. It appeared to be gray and fuzzy, yet there were craggy parts as well. There was a number of family portraits on a shelf above the fireplace, although they were of Ronzul and a few different ponies instead of more people like him.

There were also more loveseats around the back of the homey looking room, and a couch next to the one nearest the fire. On the far wall was an armor stand with very well decorated armor on it and a greatshield hung up next to the stand, as well as a very unsettling looking mace in a display case on the other side of the stand.

Ronzul gestured to the couch. “Have a seat, tell ol' Ronny whatcha need,” Ronzul said, sitting down on the loveseat nearest the fire. Alexandria took a seat on the couch, eyeing the odd rug in front of it. Marisa remained standing, and Daiyousei continued to cling to her, giving the mace a scared look. Starlight found a shadowed corner of the room and went to stand there only to shift as Cataclysm jumped from her back. The demon beelined for the fireplace as he came into view and jumped in amongst the flames, curling up happily.

“No, Cat, get back here,” Starlight said worriedly, taking a step forward. “I'm so sorry Mister Ronzul….” Ronzul simply laughed.

“It's fine, lass. Ah don' mind the lil'un sleepin' in the fire. Long as 'e's comfortable,” Ronzul assured. He turned to Ayis. “So, what trouble didya git inta' this time? Didn' see ya for months!” Ayis rubbed her arm nervously, looking to the others.

“About that…” Alexandria started. “A couple months back, Ayis happened to get herself, uh… 'Angel-napped' by a large-scale crime organization called the Circle of the Hightower. Just a couple days ago, Starlight, a few others who aren't here right now and I went to one of the Circle's complexes to complete an unrelated objective. While there, we discovered Ayis there and we busted her out.”

Ronzul closed his eyes as he stroked his beard, deep in thought. A tense silence filled the room, none of the girls sure what to say as Ronzul thought to himself. Finally, he opened his brown eyes once more.

“Yew have a kid in ya, dontcha?” he asked out of nowhere. Ayis sputtered for a moment and flailed a little, more than a little surprised. He sighed. “Figured.” He stood up, walking over to the armor stand. He stopped in front of it. “So, those lil' kucknas really want to start a war…” He growled, lashing out at the wall with a fist, instantly cracking it and making a dent. “...Then war it is.”

“Please, calm down Ronzul,” Alexandria said. “We can worry about declaring war on the Circle soon enough, but first we need to talk to you about the real reason we're here: we need to build a base of operations to stay in, and Ayis told us you're the guy to ask.”

Ronzul stood there, fist in the wall, for a good minute just seething with rage. Finally, he removed his fist, leaving behind the dent, and walked over to the fireplace, casually placing his hand inside and petting Cataclysm.

“Yew'll git one and more,” he said simply. Ayis' eyes widened.

“Ronzul, you don’t mean-” she began.

“Ah do, lass. Yer gittin' the Imperial Bundle. Fortress an' all. Ah'll cover half o' tha' expenses,” he turned to face the group. “Long as y'all tell me tha' next time yew go ta' fight those bastards, yer gittin’ all Ah can give.”

Ayis got a little teary eyed, and couldn't help but rush over and hug the dwarf. He simply smiled and rubbed her back as she cried into him.

Alexandria smiled. “If you're offering to fight alongside us, we'd be more than happy to have you, Ronzul,” she said. “And thank you for your offer. We'll need everything we can get our hands on if it'll help us take down the Circle.”

“Anythin' for the lil' Feather,” Ronzul said with a smile as he patted Ayis’ back.

“I'm only 36 years behind you!” she said with a laugh.

“Still a young'un to me, lass,” Ronzul said good naturedly as Ayis stood up and smiled down at the dwarf. “Now, let's talk about tha' specifications. Yew'll be gittin' ma' patented Supreme Dozer, which Ah'm thinkin' Ah'll put at tha' top o' tha' fort. But first, where do ya plan ta' build?”

“Heh, as it happens, we were in a pretty big and abandoned construction site just the other day,” Marisa answered. “It was real flat and everythin'. Seemed perfect for buildin' a base.”

“Where exactly was this?” Ronzul queried.

“It was near the shopping district,” Starlight answered, stepping up. “Northwest of Rarity's Canterlot Boutique.”

“Really? That ol' place?” Ronzul queried. At her nod, he hummed in thought. “Ah'd hafta' git some legal permissions, but ya got a real good spot there, lass.”

“Hah!” Marisa laughed. “Well, lucky me, huh?” Alexandria rolled her eyes.

“If you need time to get everything sorted out, then that's fine,” she said. “We'll need to relay the news to the others anyway. We'll let you work out all the legal details, and then we'll meet with you at the site with the rest of us.”

Ronzul nodded. “Understood, lass,” he said as they all moved to leave the room. When Alexandria passed by him, he stopped her with his arm. “Oi, keep an eye on li'l Feathers, will ya? She's like ma' own daughter.” Alexandria laughed a little.

“Don't worry, Ronzul,” she answered. “I don't plan on letting my girlfriend die.”

“Good, now, git goin'. Ah have to go polish ma' gear and git in touch with tha' legal boys,” Ronzul said, making a shooing motion.

“We're goin', we're goin'...” Marisa said as they were shooed back out into the tunnel outside Ronzul's front door. “Yeesh…” she added after Ronzul had gone off ahead of them to go do what he needed to do.

“Don' go touchin' ma' soil while I'm gone! Tha' Minotaur Ambassador wants tha' best 'e can git for 'is new fort!” Ronzul called as he climbed the stairs.

“I don't think we'd have any reason to touch 'em anyway!” Marisa called back.

“Alright, we should probably get going to Dr. Seer's so we can get Arela and Hikan,” Alexandria said. “They'll want to hear about this, I'm sure.”

“I know Hikan would,” Starlight said, stepping out the door with Cataclysm cradled in her arms. The little demon had not woken up and Starlight was softly stroking the feathers of his head with a worried look. “I'd… also like to know how Shell is doing.”

“Yeah, same,” Ayis agreed as they all walked up the steps.

Once at the clinic, Alexandria was the first to step inside. “Hello Ms. Touch,” she said to the receptionist behind the reception window.

The mare looked up from some paper work. “Oh,” she said in surprise before giving a small, tense smile. “It's nice to see you again. How can I help you?”

“We're here to grab Arela and Hikan,” Marisa said before anyone else could answer.

“We were also hoping to maybe see how Shell is doing…” Daiyousei added.

“Ah, you're here for the bug,” Gentle Touch said tersely. “The doctor is finishing up taking care of your… friend.”

Alexandria glared at the mare. “That's right, she's our friend. And I'll have you know that she's one of the nicest people I've known. In addition to that, it's the clinic's job to aid people when they're hurt, isn't it? I don't think you should be letting racial prejudice get in the way of your job.”

The mare looked up at the Yokai and returned her glare, starting to get out of her seat. “Look here, missy-”

“Gentle,” the low, dark growl made the mare jump a bit as the door swung quietly shut behind Dr. Truth Seer. “Sit back down.” The mare gulped and sat back down quickly, the doctor's gaze following her. Once she was seated, Dr. Seer looked up at the group and his scowl turned into a gentle smile. “Unfortunately, I can only let two of you back with the others, though that shouldn't be a problem. Your friend pulled through the night just fine and should be able to return home with you all.”

“That's great news,” Alexandria answered with a sigh. “And it's fine if not all of us can go back there to see Shell. As long as we can talk with Arela and Hikan.”

“I'll be sure to send one of them out,” the zebra said with his kind smile. “If two of you would please meet me at the waiting room door, I'll bring you right back.” With that, he turned and left through the same door he had entered the clerk's booth from. Before the door had even closed behind the stallion, Starlight was rushing to get to the waiting room doors. Alexandria went to follow her, but she stopped when she felt a tug on her dress. She turned to look behind her.

“U-Um…” Daiyousei stuttered, glancing away a little as she clasped her hands behind her back. “I-I'm really worried about Shell too… I was really hoping I could see her…”

Alexandria was silent for a few moments. Then her mouth turned up into a soft smile. “Alright Daiyousei,” she said. “I'll let you go see Shell.” Daiyousei looked up at Alexandria.

“Really…?” she asked. “You're okay with that?” Alexandria nodded. “Thank you!” Daiyousei said, a big, bright smile on her face as she gave Alexandria a quick hug before rushing to join Starlight by the waiting room doors. The door creaked open and Dr. Seer walked out of the way, letting Hikan step out of the door. He had bags under his eyes and his hair looked a mess.

“Hey, guys…” he greeted before letting out a long yawn. “Mm, sorry….”

“Triyte's Orbs, you alright there?” Ayis asked with concern.

“Hm?” Hikan hummed, looking to the fallen angel. “Oh, yeah. Just didn't get a lotta sleep last night, that's all.”

“You look like a vitelin for crying out loud!” Ayis cried.

Hikan blinked for a second before shrugging. “I'm going to assume that's a compliment,” he murmured before jerking his head back the way he came. “You guys better get going. Arela can catch you up once you get back there.”

Starlight looked worriedly at the man before she simply nodded and walked forward. She stopped only momentarily to give him a quick hug before disappearing into the depths of the clinic. Daiyousei followed Starlight silently, but glanced at Hikan with a worried look as she passed him. The man flashed her a tired smile and a thumbs up before Dr. Seer led them down the hall, the door to the waiting room swinging closed.

At the far back of the clinic, Truth took a right turn and led them down to a room. In the center was a full on medical bed, Shell being its current occupant while the futon had been pulled out into a bed, pillow and a blanket sitting on top of it.

Arela was standing right by the edge of Shell's bed, looking worse for wear than even Hikan did. Her wings had lost the luster and sheen to them, and her brown hair was frayed and looked oily. Her eyes were puffy and red, and she was staring straight at Shell's wound. She didn't seem to notice them.

Starlight stopped for a second, looking the angel over with a worried look before walking over to her side and stopping. “…The doctor said she's going to be fine…” she said quietly. Arela simply nodded. If she was affected by Starlight's presence, she didn't make any notion of it.

Starlight looked at her for a long moment before putting a hand on the angel's shoulder, and, a moment after that, wrapped her in a hug. This whole time, Daiyousei had been silently looking at Arela with a great deal of worry in her eyes.

Arela couldn't help but cry into Starlight's shoulder, body being wracked with sobs. Starlight rubbed her back, letting her cry as she held back her own tears. “She's going to be okay, Arela…” she said again, her voice tighter. After a moment, she started to hum a little tune. Something her mother used to sing to her and her sister when they were ill….

Arela cried harder for a little while, but slowly calmed, and, to Starlight's light surprise, passed out in her arms. It would seem her lack of sleep caught up with her.

“Ah…!” Daiyousei said in surprise, quickly running over to Starlight and Arela. “I-Is she okay?”

Starlight gave a soft smile as she held Arela and slowly and gently levitated her onto the futon, pulling the blanket over her. “She's just tired,” the unicorn answered quietly, gently brushing the angel's hair out.

“O-Oh…” Daiyousei said, though she still eyed Arela with worry.

After a few moments, Starlight got up from Arela's side and instead made her way over to Shell's, but an indent stayed on the couch as Cataclysm came into view, asleep next to the angel. The Changeling was sleeping soundly with bandages wrapped around her crown, a small barely visible stain a little ways over her right eye. Daiyousei turned to look down at Shell.

“I'm really glad Shell will be getting better soon…” she said. “I was really, really worried…”

Starlight nodded. “Yeah, me, too…” she said quietly, tears forming in her eyes before she squeezed them shut and grimaced. “How could we let something like this happen?”

“It wasn't our fault…” Daiyousei said. “That spirit lady was the one that hit Shell… And she did it too quickly… None of us could do anything about it… But I do wish I could have stopped her…”

Starlight was quiet as she let her tears fall down for several minutes before she opened her eyes. “...I'm going to make sure that never happens again,” she said quietly, her hands gripping the railing of the medical bed until her knuckles turned white.

“I… I agree,” Daiyousei said. “No matter how many times I have to sacrifice myself, no matter how much it hurts… I won't let this happen to anyone anymore.”

Starlight nodded her head and dried her tears before straightening up. “No matter the cost,” she said. “This won't ever happen again.”

Shell did eventually wake up, surprised by her new mane and went home with them. She spent the next month recovering in Gaelle's apartment alongside the others. But, nearer the end of the month, Ronzul found them and took them back to the construction site… only, it wasn't exactly an empty lot anymore….

The once empty lot was now a full on fortress, albeit not as big as the Castle in the upper district, but still bigger than what Hikan had seen. Arela and Ayis had seen forts of this like as well, but even they were a little blown away by the sight. Alexandria, Marisa and Daiyousei had never seen anything quite like it, and were speechless at the breathtaking sight of the building.

The walls and ramparts were lined with steel spikes, a few ballistae on each wall. The walls themselves were made of bricks of dark, almost charcoal color brick and mortar, and it was all masterfully done.

At the top was a small tower with what Hikan and Alexandria figured was a mortar, the large, quadruple-barreled hunk of metal standing proud as it's orange paint gave it a golden glow. At the entrance to the fort were banners with a symbol Hikan had specified he wanted. The black silhouette of a wolf head snarled towards the ground, it's yellow eye burning with the red cross pupil, the shape resembling something of a sword.

There were a number of smaller towers along the walls where archers could set up, and the fort had more than a few arrowslits all along the walls.

“It's…” Shanghai began before trailing off, unable to find any good words to describe the fort. Alexandria, Marisa and Daiyousei continued to remain silent, still stunned speechless.

“It's amazing,” Hikan finished, a bright grin on his face before he looks down to the Dwarf. “Thank you for this Ronzul. We really appreciate this.” Ronzul grunted.

“Long as ya give those Circle bastards what for, Ah don' care what Ah have ta' do. Jus' remember ta' pay tha' bill later, aye?” Ronzul said, looking up at his work. “Oh, and be mindful o' tha' walls inside. There're secret passages for ya.”

Starlight looked down from her gazing with a surprised look. “Um… maybe you should give us a tour…” she said, giving a nervous chuckle. Ronzul chuckled.

“Ah figured yew'd say that, lass,” Ronzul said as he began walking towards the doorway. As he walked, he called back. “Oh, and ma' pal in tha' Royal Guard said she was gunna send some o' her boys yer way.”

Hikan pauses for a moment at that and looks at the dwarf. “No offense, Ronzul,” he starts. “But are you sure that's a good idea? What we're doing here isn't exactly legal by any means. Not only that, but I can almost guarantee that some of the Circle's members will be nobles from the royal court.”

“Weren't ma' call, lad,” Ronzul replied, stopping at the doorway. “Was ol' Huey's idea. Crazy bat's been tryin' ta' find and stop these Circle clowns 'long as Ah've been 'ere.”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he looked to the doors. “So long as none of us end up in handcuffs,” he muttered.

“Huey'll worry 'bout that. Now, let's git this show on tha' road, eh?” Ronzul said, walking through the doorway. Hikan nodded his head and followed after him, Starlight and Shell going behind him. After a moment longer of staring up at the building's outside, Alexandria, Marisa and Daiyousei also followed after them.

Ayis was close behind as Ronzul, much to the group's surprise, pushed the fifteen foot tall - and likely reinforced - iron doors open all by himself. He turned to their shocked visages and chuckled.

“What? Ne'er seen a dwarf push a door?” he asked.

“Well, I mean…” Alexandria started. “That's not it. It's just that I've never seen someone so small push something large and heavy with so much ease.”

Hikan laughed at this. “Seriously?” He asked, looking back at her. “You guys really are going to have to work on your physical strength if that's the ca-” A quick thud cut him off as Starlight chopped him in the back of the head. “...Ow… What was that for?”

“Be nice,” the unicorn answered. “They've all seen combat and know what we're up against… but they haven't seen the other things we've seen. The things on the flip side of the coin….”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he let out a sigh and looked at the group. “She's right and I apologize,” he said. “But at the same time, we're not stepping into a game. Whatever or whoever the Circle is, expect feats of strength like that to become a norm. Not only that, but we'll have to be even stronger than that. Do you guys understand?”

“Got it,” Ayis said with a nod.

“Understood, my love,” Arela confirmed.

“I'll do whatever needs to be done,” Alexandria stated with conviction.

“Amen,” Marisa agreed.

“I may not be a very good fighter, but I'll do what I can to help,” Daiyousei said.

Hikan nodded before turning back to Ronzul. “Sorry for the interruption,” he apologized with a little bow. “Please, continue.” Ronzul nodded, guiding the three around the fort. He showed them the barracks where the, as he put it, 'Blind Guards', would be staying, the kitchens, the mess hall/dining room, the ramparts, and much more, like the bunker. In time, he showed them the rooms they would be staying in, along with the private bathhouse. Then, he brought them to the main tower where the mortar was, and explained how it worked, including how to make the special ammunition for it.

“And that 'bout sums it up,” Ronzul stated, looking back at the group as he turned from the mortar.

“You really went all out, didn't you Mister Ronzul,” Shell breathed, still looking around in awe. Ronzul grinned.

“Yer damned right, lass! Ah'd do anythin' fer Feathers 'ere,” Ronzul said, patting Ayis' side. Ayis smiled at this and gave the dwarf a brief hug. When she released him, she looked to her friends.

“So, who wants some Fallen cuisine?” she asked.

The base completed and the new Night Raid finally moved into their new home, time marched on. Hikan began to organize training regimens for them all, wanting to make sure they could all overcome their weaknesses before any real danger hit them. It was on one night while he was finishing up the last of the routines that the sound of someone pounding on the front door reverberated through the base.

“Hm?” Hikan looked up tiredly from the paperwork laid out before him as the loud banging seemed to pierce into his sleep-deprived head. “Now who could that be?”

“Sir! Somepony is here to see you! She has a young Hippogriff with her!” came the feminine voice of his personal guard, Little Locket.

“A…?” Hikan questioned before his eyes widened. “Thank you for reporting, Locket.” He got up from his seat and quickly ran to the front door. Locket nodded as he ran past her and out the door. The man stopped in front of the door before pulling it open.

Outside, in the cold and rain, Gaelle stood with an umbrella over herself and Garrick. The griffoness looked up from the ground, her eyes red. She'd been crying…. “Gaelle?” The assassin questioned before coming to stand beside her and usher them both inside. “What are you two doing out at this time of night? And in the rain, no less.”

Gaelle remained quiet as she and her son were led inside and Hikan closed the great door behind them. When he turned back to look at them, the griffon almost broke down into tears once more. “They found us, Hikan,” she said quietly, drawing a look of surprise from the hunter. “They… burned down the apartment we were staying in. Luckily, we weren't home… but when I saw the flames and smoke, I… I….” The griffoness' body shuddered and her voice broke as tears flowed down her face.

Hikan watched her for a moment before wrapping her in a hug. “It's okay…” he said quietly. “It's all going to be okay….”

The griffon sniffed and looked up at him. “How can you be so sure of that?” She asked, her voice tight.

Hikan looked up into Gaelle's eyes with a gentle smile. “Because I'm inviting you to stay here with us,” he said simply.

The griffon stared up at him in shock. “You… there's no way you could-”

“Of course I can,” he said. “After what you did for us, of course you can stay here. No charge and indefinitely.”

Gaelle stared up at him for a long time before her eyes teared up once more. “Thank you…” she breathed, holding him tight once more. “Thank you so much.”

Hikan smiled as he hugged her back. “It's no problem…” he said quietly. “No problem at all… not for our friends.”

And so, the Bludedges joined the Night Raid base, finally free of the nightmares that had plagued them for many, many long years. But, for a long time after that, everything went on normally. It wasn't until many months later that the group was given their next big shock….

“VYLASIIIIIIIIIIIIIIN!!!!” screamed Ayis as she was on a bed, trying to push her baby out. Alexandria was next to Ayis, holding her hand.

“Just hang in there Ayis,” Alexandria said. “It shouldn't be too much longer.”

“Just keep breathing, Miss Filya,” Dr. Seer said over the sound of screaming. “You're almost through the worst of it.”

“Vilas kan til ghu!” Ayis roared at him in her native language before screaming again as she pushed.

“Just a little bit more Miss Filya,” the doctor said calmly. “Miss Kijin, if you would please help to keep her calm.”

“Come on Ayis,” Alexandria said. “The doctor unfortunately can't just do that. It'll just take longer and hurt longer unless you just grit your teeth, push and get this over with.”

“AAAAAAHHH!” Ayis screamed louder, until finally, the sounds of a newborn crying filled the room.

Dr. Seer let out a breath as the crying continued. He reached over to a table next to him and after little bit more shuffling, he stood up holding Ayis' new baby girl.

The little girl had pale skin, black wings with two-toned black and red feathers that faded into the other color across the length of each feather, a small horn on her forehead that was black with a red tip, the colors also forming a gradient in the middle like her feathers, and purple hair like her mother, but with black fringes.

She opened her eyes to show them all the heterochromatic orbs of green and blue that she had. Ayis panted, but smiled as she held her arms out to receive her child. The zebra gave a little smile as Nurse Red Cross handed him a blanket with which to swaddle the baby. With that done, he stepped over to Ayis and gently held her out. “Congratulations, Miss Filya,” he said gently. “You're officially a mother.”

Ayis took the child and looked down at her with a tired but warm smile, brushing the hair from the little girl's face. She held her close to her chest as she panted a little more.

“Yis…” she said softly. “Yis Vyala…” she said, nuzzling the child a little. Alexandria smiled.

“'Night's Splendor',” she said. “A beautiful name for such a beautiful baby.”

“Mother would have liked it,” Ayis said softly, giving her child a kiss. The child was asleep in her arms, but cuddled her head into Ayis' bosom at the action. Ayis looked up at Alexandria.

“Want to hold her, babe?” she asked. Alexandria looked down at the baby.

“I do want to,” she started. “But she looks really comfortable right now. I can always wait until later.”

Ayis smiled and shrugged, nuzzling her child more. “Suit yourself,” she said.

A new member of the family certainly did wonders to brighten up the mood, everyone pitching in whenever Ayis would let them. For two months after the birth of little Yis, things were pretty quiet, or at least as quiet as it could be with a team of assassins hunting down an evil organization. However, the turn of the third month gave the team something new to look forward to….

Alexandria was taking a moment to relax between training sessions when Marisa came up to her.

“Heya Alex,” Marisa greeted. “Got somethin' to ask you.”

Alexandria looked up at Marisa and noticed that she was carrying a doll. The doll looked exactly like Shanghai with a few differences. Notably, the irises of the eyes were red, and the hair reached all the way down to the doll's thighs, as opposed to Shanghai's shoulder-length hair. Finally, the doll had been made with its mouth turned down in a frown. “…What is it Marisa?” Alexandria asked, not sure what to think of the doll.

“Well, a while back I thought it'd be cool if I could get a Fairy for myself, so I ordered one of Alice's dolls for delivery,” Marisa answered. “It finally got here today, but last week I remembered that it's not that easy to make a Fairy outta it. It was too late to cancel the order, so I thought I'd ask you if you knew what I should do with it.”

Alexandria was silent for a while, thinking of what to do with the doll… And also of how exasperating Marisa was being. “Just give it to me,” Alexandria finally said. “I'll figure something out.”

“Cool,” Marisa said, handing the doll to Alexandria. “Thanks Alex.” With that, Marisa left.

Alexandria spent another ten minutes thinking of what to do with the doll. Finally, she had an idea. She got up and went looking for Ayis. She found the Fallen Angel in her room with Yis, playing with the child and cooing at her. Alexandria smiled at the scene.

“Sorry to interrupt,” she said to Ayis. “But I just wanted to speak with you for a quick moment.” Ayis turned to Alexandria, cradling Yis in her arms.

“What's up, babe?” she asked, curious. Alexandria walked in, doll in hand.

“Well, I got this from a certain magician who acted before she thought,” Alexandria started, holding up the doll. “I don't feel the need to have another doll - Shanghai is plenty enough for me - so I thought to give it to you as a gift.” Ayis looked at the doll and hummed in thought.

“It would be nice to have a Squirt of my own…” she mused. After a short while of thinking, she smiled and nodded. “Alright, I'll take it. Thanks, babe.” Ayis took the doll from Alexandria.

“No problem,” Alexandria said with a smile. “Though it's still just a doll for now. But giving it a name will help you grow more attached to it. So, why don't you do that now?”

Ayis hummed in thought as she kept it out of Yis' reach. “Hmm… Nyilla.”

“'Peace'?” Alexandria said. “That's not a bad name. I hope that Nyilla does eventually become your very own 'Squirt'.” Ayis smiled and nodded.

“Yeah, same here. Can you imagine the pranks we could do together? It'd be priceless!” Ayis said with a mischievous grin.

“Hah, you sound just like a Fairy yourself, getting so excited over pranks,” Alexandria said in good humor. Ayis giggled before Yis started to cry.

“Well, looks like my kid's hungry,” Ayis said, making to move her shirt so her child could latch onto her breast. Alexandria checked the clock.

“Aaaaand, I'm about to be late to my next training session,” she said before going to leave the room. “Remind me later to thank Marisa.”

“Will do. See ya later, babe!” Ayis called as Yis started to suckle on her mother's breast. Ayis smiled down at her child as she looked to the doll in her off hand. “This should be fun.”

Everything seemed to calm down after that and many long months passed. The Night Raid members trained and continued to dig into the Circle, though couldn't get very much farther than simple drug busts and other minor crimes. The team's time at the base slowly approached the one year mark before the next big event rushed to meet them. Only this time… it wasn't anywhere near as positive as the previous encounters….

Hikan slammed his fist into the concrete block once more, making the block shudder as he paused and took several breaths to relax his muscles. He straightened up and let the sweat drip off of him as he turned and grabbed his towel, quickly wiping his face and arms down before wrapping it around his shoulders and picked up his water bottle. He popped the cap off the bottle and lifted it to his lips.

“HIKAN!!!” Starlight's scream ripped through the base, making the assassin jump and pour the contents of the bottle over himself. He stopped and looked towards the living areas and listened to make sure his tired mind wasn't playing tricks on him.

“HIKAN HELP!!!” The second scream was more than enough for the man to dart towards the rooms, slamming the door open to the unicorn's room.

“Star!? What's going-” The man stopped as he saw Starlight sitting in the corner, cradling Cataclysm's head in her lap.

The mare looked up at him, tears streaming down her face. “He… He won't wake up…” she said quietly, her voice tight before she looked down at her familiar, stroking his feathery mane gently as sobs wracked her body. Arela came in the room and noted Starlight's tear filled visage and Cataclysm's still form, and gained a concerned look.

“What is wrong? Did something happen to your familiar?” she asked.

“I-I don't know…” Starlight said quietly. “He's been sleeping more and more, but he always wakes up when I come in…. But… But he won't wake up….”

Arela frowned, walking over to check the small dragon's pulse.The pulse was there… if only barely. The demon's chest didn't even move up and down as he took breath.

“This… Is bad. We need to do something!” Arela said, turning to her Devoted.

“But what?” Hikan said, stepping forward, a sad frown on his face. “We don't know any veterinarians, let alone anyone that knows anything about Nil Dragons.”

“Yukkuri shiteitte ne,” came Marisa's voice from the doorway. She was leaning against the frame. “Take it easy. If there's nothin' you can do about it, then there's no use worryin'. I'm sure everythin'll work itself out fine.”

“How on earth could you possibly be so sure of that?” Hikan questioned, turning to her with frustration in his voice.

“To be perfectly honest, she can't,” Hikan took a step back at the new voice even as Starlight's ears swiveled a bit and she looked up and around. “Excuse me.” A finger tapped Marisa's shoulder. Marisa turned around.

Behind her was a silver-haired man with deep purple eyes wearing a black trenchcoat. A constant half-smile lay on his face even as the hilt of his broadsword gleamed over his shoulder.

“Who're you supposed to be?” Marisa asked Soldier.

“A friend,” the Displacer said with a twinkle in his eye. “May I enter?”

“Ah, right, sorry,” Marisa said, entering the room and stepping out of the man's way.

“Thank you,” he said before stepping in, Starlight giving him a confused look.

“Soldier? What are you-”

“Doing here?” The man finished, stopping just short of her and kneeling down to rub his hand over Cat's mane as well. “I heard from a little bird that you were worried and came to lay your fears to rest.”

“Milord?” Arela queried. “Did milord send you?”

Soldier shook his head. “Not this time, I'm afraid,” he answered before straightening up. “But the reason for my visit is no less important.”

“And what is that purpose?” Hikan asked, his voice suspicious.

“Simply put, delivering a few things,” Soldier said, throwing a smirk at the assassin. “Think of me as an overqualified mailman.”

“And what exactly are you here to deliver?” Marisa asked, her tone curious as opposed to suspicious.

“I'm glad you asked, Marisa,” Soldier answered with a little grin. “Mostly information, but with that information, a few gifts.” With that he reached to the inside of his coat and pulled out a small, blue crystal on a black leather cord, and a much larger dark red crystal.

“What-” Starlight began before she was yanked out of the way. Soldier moved in a blur and before anyone could stop him, plunged the dark red crystal into Cataclysm's side with a sickening squelch.

“Whoa, what in Hakugyokurou are you doing!?” Marisa exclaimed as she rushed forward. Arela moved to stop him as well.

“What in Lleiya are you doing?!” she cried.

Soldier straightened up. “No need to worry,” he said before he found a blade at his throat.

“You have three seconds to convince me not to cut your fucking head off,” Hikan growled.

Soldier looked over his shoulder with an amused look as the crystal began to spread out and cover the Nil Dragon's body. “The crystal is cut from the original, a large column of gemstone from which this species of demon was first born. It is the only thing that allows them to metamorphose into their adult phase.”

Hikan’s confused look was more than enough for Soldier to chuckle.

“Something going on here, guys?” came the voice of Ayis as she walked in with Yis in her arms. She then noted the new arrival and how Hikan had his blade at Soldier's throat. “I'm guessing this is an intruder?” Ayis asked, eyes narrowing as she held Yis closer for protection.

“He's apparently tryin' to help,” Marisa said. “Or at least, that's what he claims. It's kinda hard to believe him after he shoved a large crystal into Cat's side.”

“Believe me or not,” Soldier said, bringing his finger up and pushing away the blade of Hikan's knife before turning around. “It is for his own good, but in order for it to do any good…” he paused and stepped towards Starlight before holding up the other crystal. “You'll need to wear this.” Hikan took a protective step back towards the unicorn before the necklace was enveloped in Starlight's aura and floated over to her.

The mare took it in her hand and looked between it and Soldier, to which the man nodded. Starlight looked back down at the crystal, took a breath, and slipped the cord over her head. The moment the gem made contact with her chest, her eyes flared up bright red and she collapsed. “What the hell!?” Hikan yelled, catching her before turning a snarl on the Displaced. “Arela! Marisa!”

Arela immediately summoned her halberd and pointed it at Soldier, a scowl on her face. Soldier felt the octagonal face of Marisa's device press into his back at the same time.

“Jumpie bunch, aren't you?” Soldier said nonchalantly as Starlight began to stir.

“Wha… What happened?” The unicorn asked, putting a hand to her head.

“What did you do?” Marisa asked him in a flat tone, not moving an inch.

“I simply completed the mental link that should have formed between them at Cataclysm's birth,” Soldier answered without falter. “Now, she can keep tabs on his mental state as he grows. She can hear his thoughts, know his dreams. And, someday, he'll know hers as well.”

“I dunno…” Marisa said, slowly lowering her device. “Sounds like a load'a hooey to me.”

Starlight was quiet for a moment, staring up at the man before looking towards the crystalline cocoon that now covered her familiar. “He's… not lying....” She said quietly. “I can feel… something… like the edge of a word….”

Soldier smiled a bit at that. “It will grow to be more than that, I assure you,” he said before clapping his hands together. “NOW! For the other reasons I came here.” He opened his trench coat once more and reached inside. Arela sent her halberd back to her pocket dimension, but kept a close eye on Soldier. Marisa kept her device in hand as she watched to see what Soldier pulled out of his coat.

The Displacer withdrew his hand and pulled out a black coin. It was about an inch in diameter, one side having the imprint of a wolf's head with intricate engravings and the other having the image of an owl, wings spread wide and talons outstretched. “This is for you,” he said, flipping the coin to Hikan, the assassin catching it with cupped hands.

The younger man stared at it for a long moment before he looked up with a confused look. “What is this?” He asked.

“That,” Soldier answered as he took his sword belt off his shoulders and swung the scabbard into his other hand. “Is your Token. You'll have to ask Alexandria about that later. Would you hold this for me please?” The question was directed at Marisa as he pulled his sword free and held the hilt of it out to her. Marisa grabbed the hilt of the sword and almost immediately began inspecting the weapon in obvious intrigue.

“Try not to drop her,” the man said as he overturned the sheath in his hand and started shaking it. “She's rather sensitive about that sort of thing.” As if to accentuate his point, the blade glowed an esthetic gold color, a serpentine hiss sounding from it. Marisa jumped, and the others present expected her to drop the weapon in surprise. On the contrary, however, her grip on the weapon tightened, Soldier's point having gotten through.

“A hissin' sword…” Marisa said. “That's a new one for me…”

“She does a little more than hiss, I can tell you that,” Soldier said with a chuckle putting his hand inside the scabbard. “…Ah! Here it is!” He pulled his hand out of the sheath and with it came a long, slender box. It appeared to be made of polished red wood, with a handle and a pair of silver clasps holding it closed. “I took the liberty of snatching this as it made its way to this world. You all might find it useful someday.” He held the case out and Hikan took it.

“What's in it?” He asked curiously, his eye scanning over the case.

“A Teigu,” Soldier said shortly, causing Hikan to pause. “Specifically, L'Arc Qui Ne Faut.”

“That's an odd name,” Marisa said, looking at the box. “What is it, and what's it do?”

“I imagine it's like my love's weapon, but as a bow?” Arela surmised.

“A bow, huh?” Marisa said, a twinkle in her eye. “Though… I'm not sure what it'd do to be honest.”

“L’Arc is the bow that doesn't miss,” Hikan began to explain. “Even the worst bowman in the world could pick it up and hit their target, so long as they knew their name.”

“Really now?” Marisa asked, handing the sword back to Soldier and swiping the box from Hikan, catching the man by surprise. “Well, ain't that nifty?”

“I wouldn't,” Soldier warned, putting his sword back into its sheath and throwing it over his shoulder. “Teigu are known for their pickiness in choosing a partner.”

“Well, we won't know if I can use it unless I try, right?” Marisa countered as she undid the clasps and opened the lid. Inside was a bow with flat, curving arms and a strange ring around the grip, and what appeared to be a normal quiver, though the quiver was rather small in order to fit in the slim box, only capable of holding about ten arrows at most. Marisa picked up the bow while slinging the quiver - which already had five arrows in it - over her shoulder. She then drew an arrow from the quiver and nocked it.

“Alright, let's see how well this works,” Marisa said, drawing the bowstring. “Shanghai!” she announced loud and clear… Though she then just stood there for several seconds, not letting go of the drawn string.

“....Marisa…?” Starlight asked after several more moments. “Are you okay…?”

Marisa hesitated a little longer before gently letting the bowstring go loose. “Gah, my everythin' hurts all of a sudden…” she muttered, wincing. “What in Hakugyokurou is this all about…?”

“I did warn you,” Soldier replied, gently taking the bow from her. “Being rejected by a Teigu can be very painful… and sometimes lethal.”

“Well I ain't dead… Nor do I plan on dyin' anytime soon…” Marisa answered, wincing again as Soldier took the quiver off her shoulder. “But damn, does this hurt… I think I'd better be off to the infirmary, make sure I get properly looked at…” Marisa then left, clearly in a great deal of pain.

“And that, my love, is why I do not wish for a Teigu,” Arela told Hikan.

Hikan shrugged. “They're not for everybody,” he said simply. “I've seen people who were just as powerful without a Teigu as those who had them.” Arela turned to Soldier once more.

“So, is there anything else you came here for?” she queried.

Soldier seemed to think for a moment before something flashed in his eyes and he frowned a bit. “...Do any of you know any Displaced named Sam, Chris, or Amelia?” He asked, a somber tone in his voice. Arela shook her head.

“I know of only the few milord kept eyes on, like Herobrine, Alonne, Kalt, and a few others,” Arela answered before shivering. “The first of which is not my favorite.”

Soldier frowned a bit. “Would Alexandria know about them?” He questioned. “What I have to say is very important, but I'm running out of time.”

Hikan and Starlight shared a look before turning back to the Displacer. “Of course we can,” the assassin said. “What is it that's so important?”

The man was quiet for a moment before he sighed. “I've… made a mistake,” he said quietly. “I Displaced someone I shouldn't have, and now many worlds are suffering for it. But I fear it could get worse. There is another Displacer whose sole goal is to destroy the lives of those he thinks have wronged him. I fear he set his eyes on my mistake… and the three I mentioned will be in grave danger.” Arela looked to her Devoted, worry etched on her face.

“...What can we do to stop it?” she asked.

“Yeah, I'd rather my kid doesn't get thrown into this crap, especially at her age,” Ayis concurred.

“I doubt any of you would get directly involved,” Soldier assured. “I simply need you to pass on the message.” Arela looked to her Devoted once more.

Hikan shared her look for a moment before he sighed and looked to the Displacer, nodding his head. “We'll pass it on,” he said. “One way or another.”

Soldier smiled a bit, the desperation leaking away from his eyes. “Thank you,” he said before turning towards the door. “I should be off now.”

“Thank you for what you've done,” Arela said politely, watching him go.

“Anytime,” the man said, giving them a smile before he stepped out the door. “Stay safe. All of you….”

“We will,” Ayis affirmed. With that, Soldier left, and the group was somewhat more at ease. Ayis looked around at her friends. “So… Anyone wanna help me find more outfits for little Yis here?”

With their fears laid to rest, time continued on its march and soon, two years had flown by since they had begun their crusade against the Circle. Frustratingly, they hadn't made as much progress as Hikan would have liked, but the day wasn't a day for fighting or death. Instead, it was a time of celebration….

Today was the day of Ayis and Alexandria's wedding. Or, as Ayis called it, 'Devotion Ceremony'. It was late in the evening, and the moon was a bright, blood red, the perfect time and only time that the wedding could take place.

Alexandria was wearing a beautifully pristine, white, sleeveless gown with a large, puffed out skirt that had many frilled layers. Her hair was glossy and brushed, a white rose in it off to the side. Needless to say, she was quite stunning as she stood in the atrium, waiting for Ayis. Floating just behind her shoulder was Shanghai, wearing an identical - if much smaller - dress. Alexandria gazed around at the numerous empty chairs, only a few of them filled with her friends in Night Raid. Alice and Medicine had also come to attend. Alice had been overjoyed to see that her best friend was okay. According to her, Patchouli had also wanted to attend, but couldn't make it due to her asthma acting up.

Alexandria had been told by her lover that the rest of the seats were for her ancestors, though Ayis had never explained how they would possibly attend, instead focusing more on the decorations. This brought a smile to Alexandria's face as she remembered seeing her love get fired up over something as girly as a wedding, and thus her attention to the decorations.

A number of banners with Ayis' family crest on them hung from the walls, the crest itself being of a black rose dripping with blood on one side and the other dripping black liquid. Ayis had gone through many arguments with those who made the banners about getting it done right. The rest of the atrium was decorated with black streamers and ribbons, and there were even an assortment of black roses along the corners of the room. An organ player patiently sat to the side, his massive organ at the ready. Numerous other musicians with various other instruments were also standing at the ready.

“I can tell you're excited to see what Ayis looks like in a wedding dress,” Shanghai said to Alexandria with a smile and a slight giggle. Alexandria blushed a little at that comment.

“Y-Yeah, I'll admit I'm curious…” Alexandria answered.

“This should be interesting,” Arela whispered to Hikan, head on his shoulder.

“It really should,” Hikan answered just as quietly, a smile on his face as he rested his hand on hers.

“Just wait until ours,” she said with a smile.

Hikan's smile widened and he squeezed her hand gently before planting a kiss on her forehead. “Can't wait,” he said softly. Then, the doors to the atrium flew open, and out walked Ayis, wearing a black and red wedding dress with black frills and dark red trim. A black veil covered her face and sparkled with small gemstones, courtesy of Rarity. Her ears had two red roses tucked behind them, and the dress accentuated her figure quite well, her large, raven black wings tucked behind her as her bridal train, covered in more roses, slid along the floor behind her.

Alexandria was silenced, her face awestruck. “Wow, that dress is beautiful…” Alice murmured, staring at the dress with wide eyes.

“I must admit she's got a good taste in colour,” Medicine agreed, referring to the fact that her own clothes were also red and black.

Starlight stared at the dress with a happy smile on her face, her hand going to the jewel that had embedded itself into the center of her chest. She didn't say anything, but the look on her face showed just how happy she was for her friends. Arela smiled widely at Ayis, who quietly walked up to her lover and stood beside her. She then smiled at Alexandria, and turned back to the altar, which had a small basin with a prong in the middle.

Ayis quickly pricked her finger on it, letting the blood flow down and into the basin, before beginning a chant.

“Oh Hallowed fathers, brothers, mothers, and sisters… Denizens of Triyte's holy kingdom of gentle light… Come to see your child begin a life anew with her partner…” she chanted, and the lights dimmed until all that was visible was thanks to the light of the blood moon. After that, a number of winged, transparent forms appeared in the room, each one smiling at Ayis. Two in particular walked up to her and smiled.

“My little vintala…” the female said softly, gently stroking Ayis cheek.

“Hey mom. Glad you could make it,” Ayis replied back just as softly.

“You've done us proud, sweetie,” a tall, bulky man said with a smile. He turned to Alexandria, smiled at her and winked, then turned to the woman. “Come, my dear. We shouldn't cause too much of a scene. This is a Devotion Ceremony, after all.” The woman nodded and the two took their seats, many of the others doing the same. An elderly looking man walked up to the podium, and began the procession.

“We are gathered here today, under Our Lord's holiest of nights, to bring these two lovely women together in matrimony. We are here, for a Devotion Ceremony,” the man spoke, voice like rolling gravel. Ayis reached over and grasped Alexandria's hand, squeezing affectionately. “Should any of you wish to object to this hallowed proceeding…” the man's ghostly eyes glowed red for a split second. “Then damned to the Wastes you shall be.” His eyes returned to normal. “Now, let us begin. Ayis Filya VII, do you take this woman to be your Devoted? Do you vow to protect her from all harm, to help her through life, to hold her and care for her, until Triyte takes you both into his sweet embrace?” Ayis nodded firmly.

“I do,” she said with conviction. The man turned to Alexandria.

“Alexandria Kijin, do you take this woman to be your Devoted? Do you vow to protect her from all harm, to help her through life, to hold her and care for her, until Triyte takes you both into his sweet embrace?” he asked. Alexandria nodded without hesitation.

“Of course,” she answered. The man smiled.

“Then commence your vows. As is tradition, the proposed shall do so first,” he gestured for Alexandria to speak. Alexandria turned to Ayis and cleared her throat.

“Ayis,” she began. “I promise that I will love and protect you, help you up if you feel down, to care for you when you're sick, and to stand by your side for all my life and beyond.” Ayis wiped a few tears from her eyes, and cleared her own throat as the man turned to her.

“Alex, you are my moon, my vyala, my everything. I promise that I will always be there for you. That I will always be a shoulder for you to cry on, that I will always be there with you, like a blessed shadow. I promise to hold you and love you like a dragon does it's treasure,” Ayis said, taking Alexandria's other hand and staring into her eyes. “This, I vow.” As Ayis was finishing her vows, Shanghai came around and wiped at some of the tears from Alexandria's cheek. Shanghai had a few joyful tears of her own running down her face.

“Then, by the power invested in me, I declare you both Devoted. Present your tokens of love,” the man said. Ayis plucked a feather from her wing, whilst Alexandria presented a lock of her hair. Ayis placed her feather to Alexandria's lips, then removed it and kissed Alexandria on those very lips. She withdrew, smiling widely as tears of joy ran down her own face. Alexandria then took the lock of hair and pressed it to Ayis' lips before removing it and returning her kiss, tears streaming from her eyes the whole time. “And thus, by the holy decree of Our Lord so long ago, is this Devotion Ceremony now finished! Devotees, feel free to mingle with everyone now!”

Alice was the first to reach the two of them. “Congratulations Alex!” she said. To those who paid attention, she was trying to hold back the tears of joy in her eyes. “I'm so happy for you!”

“Yeah, congrats,” Marisa said simply with a large smile.

“Indeed,” Shell said, making her way over. “It's nice to see you both express your love for each other openly like this after these last few years.” Ayis grinned, wrapping an arm around Alexandria's waist.

“Damn straight!” she concurred. Arela walked over, Hikan with her, as she smiled broadly at the new couple.

“It's great seeing that you two finally made it official,” Arela said.

“It definitely took long enough,” Hikan joked.

“Oh shut up,” Medicine said, taking it a bit too seriously. “They couldn't do something like this until Alex turned eighteen anyway.”

“I see you've made some good friends, sis,” came a male voice from behind the group. Ayis quickly turned to find a transparent, ghostly man with a broad grin and wild, untamed long hair and what must have been some form of officer's getup.

“Arn!” she cried, rushing over and, to the group's surprise, hugging him. The man laughed, patting her back.

“Calm down, sis. Jeez, you're gonna embarrass us both,” he joked. Ayis released him, then turned to the group.

“Guys, this is my older brother, Arn Filya II,” she introduced. The man waved.

“Heya,” he greeted.

“Hello Arn,” Alexandria said. “You have a wonderful sister.”

“Don't I know it,” he said, ruffling his sister's hair. “She saved my skin more than once back during the Cataclysm. Of course, I died in the end, but hey, I'm here now, yeah?” He told them, smiling. “Did she ever tell you guys about the time when she tried to eat a-” Ayis elbowed him in the gut, blushing madly.

“Don't tell them that!” she said quickly. Arn just laughed as he recovered from the blow to his gut.

“Now you've gotten me curious,” Alexandria said with a grin. “Maybe you could tell me about it later?”

“You'd have to perform a ritual, buuut-” Arn began, starting to stand back before Ayis stomped on his foot with her high heels.

“No! Absolutely not!” she said, blushing more. Arn just laughed the pain off.

“Still as fiery as ever, sis,” he chuckled.

“Um, anyway, congratulations!” Daiyousei said, trying to divert the conversation from the subject of whatever Ayis once tried to eat.

“Yeah,” Ayis said, before grabbing Alexandria by the waist again. “I can't wait for tonight~.” She purred, squeezing Alexandria's rear. Alexandria blushed but smiled.

“Neither can I,” she answered.

The Devotion of Ayis and Alexandria was one of the best moments the Night Raid group shared together. The bonding of two souls was one that warmed their base, turning it from being the simple headquarters of a group of assassins into a home they each cherished. And over time, the little mix matched family grew….

Ayis was playing with her daughter, Yis, in her room, throwing up unwanted trash that had been left around the fort, while her daughter changed them into stuffed toys in mid-air with her magic, clapping and giggling all the while.

“Amazing that such a simple activity can bring so much joy,” a voice suddenly said from behind Ayis. The voice sounded very much like Shanghai's, if only a little deeper… And maybe a little more passive-aggressive.

Ayis looked around in surprise, turning to find that the doll Alexandria had gifted her, Nyilla, was standing behind her, arms crossed and brow furrowed slightly, watching the angel play with her baby.

“Well I'll be damned. You're awake and alive now, huh, Shrimp?” Ayis said, picking Yis up and cradling her in her arms.

“That's Nyilla to you,” the now Fairy retorted, puffing out her cheeks as she frowned. “You gave me that name. The least you could do is use it.” Ayis blinked at this.

“Well, alright then, Nyilla,” Ayis said. “Can I ask how long you've been watching?”

“About a few minutes or so, not too long,” Nyilla answered.

“Huh,” Ayis said simply. She then noticed how Yis was reaching for the doll, and smiled. “Why don't you come over here? Yis seems to like you.”

“Oh, I'd love to,” Nyilla answered in a sarcastic tone. “Except that you're all the way up there.”

“You can't fly like Squirt?” Ayis asked, a little surprised at this.

“If I could fly, why in the Wastes would I be standing on the floor like this?” Nyilla shot back. Ayis blinked again, before giggling a little.

“Oh by Triyte, it's so adorable hearing you attempt to swear at your size,” she said, hiding her giggles behind a fist. Ayis noticed as Nyilla blushed.

“I-I am not adorable!” she stuttered. Ayis giggled uproariously, and Yis joined in.

“Oh Gods, oh Gods… You,” Ayis devolved into a fit of laughter. Nyilla blushed even more.

“V-Valas!” she shouted in embarrassment. Ayis laughed harder. After another moment, just as Nyilla was about to say something else, Alexandria came into the room.

“What's going on?” she asked. “What's so funny?”

“Can you please just make this zil stop laughing at me!?” Nyilla shouted. That stopped Ayis' laughter dead.

“…Did you just swear in front of my kid?” she asked in a low voice. “Using a word even I rarely use? Because if you just called me what I think you did…” Ayis began. Nyilla was silent for several moments.

“…Yeah,” Nyilla answered. “Yeah I did. What are you going to do about it?”

“Oh, I'm not going to do a thing…” Ayis said as she slowly placed Yis down, who spread her wings. “My kid, is.” Then, before Nyilla knew it, her head was in the child's mouth. To Alexandria and Ayis' surprise however, Nyilla didn't struggle. Not even in the least. She simply let the baby have her way with her. Ayis watched this with a frown as Yis continued to slobber all over Nyilla. After a good minute, she sighed and picked Yis up, pulling Nyilla out of the child's mouth. “Look, I don't want to make an enemy of you, but I would like it if you keep the swearing to a minimum around my kid. Capiche?”

“…Fine,” Nyilla said.

“Um…” Alexandria started awkwardly. “Con… gratulations on your Fairy…?”

“Yeah, I guess,” Ayis said, her child gurgling up at her. Ayis looked to her Devoted. “You wanna hold her? She doesn't see you all that often with how much training you do.”

“Alright, sure,” Alexandria answered.

The family grew evermore, even as the present day caught up with them. Gaelle and Garrick still made their home with them, the young ones grew, Cataclysm still slept, Nyilla was integrated into the home, and the bonds amongst them became stronger. Even now, those bonds were being reinforced….

Arela and Hikan's Devotion Ceremony was almost larger than Ayis and Alexandria's, if it weren't for the fact that they did not have as many guests as the previous Ceremony did. There were golden water fountains lining the walls of the atrium, something that Hikan had to pay many expenses for, gold and white streamers and ribbons, and sunflowers in pots placed between each row of seats whilst the fountains were placed between the pots.

Like Ayis, Arela's family crest hung up on golden banners, a white flame with a golden blade inside. The flame itself had been given much detail, really making the banners stand out.

Hikan was currently waiting for his bride at the altar, where Ronzul was, taking the place of Priest in place of another High Angel. Hikan was wearing pitch black slacks with a matching jacket, an amber tie sitting over his slate silver shirt, his wings held tight to his back as his tail mirrored the butterflies in his stomach. Then, the double doors opened, and the harp player began to play as Arela walked down the aisle, her white and gold dressing shocking all present as it looked like it was a complete piece of art.

The flowing, intricate golden patterns of flames, swords, and fleur de lis' were expertly woven with gold thread into the dress. Her head was adorned with a golden circlet made up of small golden leaves, and the train looking like golden fire with how the light caught it just right. She held a bouquet of morning glories in her hands, and she stopped at Hikan, blushing madly with a smile as she looked up to her love.

Hikan returned the smile, albeit a bit nervously. “Are you ready?” He asked quietly, joy springing through his voice. She nodded, turning to Ronzul.

“Well, let's start the proceedin's, then, aye?” he said, opening his tome. “First, ten moments o' silence, for tha' fallen brothers and sisters that once made up tha' Biore family.” Arela immediately closed her eyes, clutching her bouquet tightly. Alexandria, Marisa and Daiyousei all complied as they looked to the floor, Marisa going so far as to remove her hat in respect. Hikan bowed his head and closed his eyes as Starlight also closed hers. Shell looked to and fro for a moment before she followed the example of those around her.

A solid ten minutes of silence followed, and when they all opened their eyes, Hikan looked to Arela to see that she was fighting back tears and losing. Ronzul noticed this as well.

“Do ya need a bit, lass?” he asked. She shook her head, wiping her tears.

“N-No, I'll be fine,” she said reassuringly. Ronzul looked at her for a good second before nodding.

“Right then,” he said, turning back to the tome. “Before we continue, are there any objections ta' this Ceremony?” Ronzul asked. At the silence that ensued, he smiled. “Good. Now, Hikan Kanshi, do ya take this 'ere lass ta' be yers? Ta' hold 'er and love 'er, ta' keep 'er safe from all harm, e'en beyond yer death, should it be ta' pass? Ta' nurse 'er back to health should she fall ill, 'till Triyte takes yer souls ta' Eyther?”

“I do,” Hikan answered without pause, his voice unwavering. Ronzul smiled, turning to Arela.

“Arela Biore, do ya take this lad ta' be yers? Ta' hold and love, ta' keep safe from all harm, e'en beyond death, should it be ta' pass? Ta' nurse 'im back to health should 'e fall ill, 'till Triyte takes yer souls ta' Eyther?” Ronzul asked the Angel. Arela nodded firmly.

“Yes, I do,” she said resolutely.

“Then commence yer Vows,” Ronzul told them.

Hikan looked towards the dwarf for a moment before he took a deep breath, looking back to the angel he loved. “The day I met you,” he began. “Was the day I got my wings. That morning, I woke up not knowing what to look forward to. Just like the rest of my days in this world, I woke up dead to what was to come, so grounded that the only things I felt were anger… and numbness. …And then we danced. We danced to a song that I still remember in the hall of a god, beneath the stony gaze of a deity… and for the first time, I felt happy again. That day, it wasn't my wings that allowed me to soar. It was you…. And so, from this day into the rest of eternity, I vow to stay by your side. To protect, to love, and to care, for the rest of my days… and beyond.”

Arela cried tears of joy as she heard those words, and took his hands in hers. “Throughout all my years, I was told to find a suitable husband. One who would sweep me off my feet without a second thought, one who did so selflessly. I was told by my grandmother that the day I met that man, I would know true bliss.” She looked up to her love. “Even after all I knew was in ruins, and my body was violated, you appeared in my life. The handsome, dashing rogue of my wildest dreams, come to steal me in the broad light of day. I swear to always love you, to care for you as you have me and more, and to protect your honor and spirit for as long as I am allowed to live.” Arela was crying throughout all of this.

“That…” Ronzul drew all attention back to him as he sniffled and pulled out a handkerchief, blowing his nose into it. “That was beautiful, yew two.” He shook his head. “A-Anyway, present yer tokens of love.” Arela gladly did so, taking one of her feathers like she had all that time ago, and placing it against Hikan's lips. Then, she removed it and kissed him swiftly but passionately. Hikan smiled gently as the kiss ended before he brought up the lock of his hair, a swirl of honey blonde and chocolate brown. He put the lock tenderly against her lips before pulling it back and returning the kiss with all the love he could muster before pulling back. Shortly after this there was a shout from outside.

“Everybody come outside!” came Shanghai's voice. “There's a surprise for all of you!”

“Trust us!” Nyilla's voice added. “You won't want to miss this!” Alexandria turned to Ayis with a knowing smile as the two got up and left. Marisa got up as well.

“Now, what's this all about?” she asked as she stepped outside as well. Daiyousei followed her, a look of curiosity on her face. Gaelle nudged her son gently and the two got up from their seats, making their way outside as Starlight and Shell followed them out. Arela looked to her official Devoted, grabbed his hand, and led him out, Ronzul following closely behind.

Once outside, they found Shanghai and Nyilla. Nyilla, being flightless, was riding piggyback on Shanghai. Meanwhile, Shanghai was holding one of Die Leaguer's Orbs, the Explosion Orb, while the Ice Orb and Flame Orb both floated near her.

“Hee hee, are you ready Nyilla?” Shanghai asked with a smile.

“Go for it, just like we practiced,” Nyilla answered.

With that, Shanghai then tossed the Explosion Orb upwards, and Nyilla caught it, passing it back to Shanghai. Meanwhile, the Flame Orb lunged at Nyilla before bouncing off her. Shanghai then threw the Explosion Orb up again, Nyilla catching it and passing it back, followed by the Ice Orb striking Nyilla. This pattern repeated several more times before Shanghai stopped. Everyone present noted that none of the Orbs were going off even though all three should have gone off upon contacting Nyilla.

“Heh,” Nyilla chuckled. “Prepare to be amazed.” With that, she then raised her hands above her head. Suddenly, a large fireball shot from her hands, shooting high up into the air before exploding beautifully in midair. Then, an iceball shot up and shattered, the shards of ice in the air catching the sunlight and sparkling brilliantly. Nyilla then continued to fire off more of the fireballs and iceballs in varying combinations and frequencies, putting on a beautiful fireworks display. Soon enough, the makeshift fireworks stopped.

“Looks like I'm all out,” Nyilla commented, lowering her arms. “We hope you enjoyed that. A lot of work and a lot of practice,” she looked at Shanghai pointedly who blushed a little in embarrassment and looked away. “…Went into making that possible.”

“Wow…” Arela breathed, leaning against Hikan. She smiled up at the two dolls. “Thanks, you two.”

“You're welcome!” Shanghai said cheerfully.

“That was really somethin',” Marisa said.

“It was amazing…!” Daiyousei said, her eyes shining in awe.

Hikan smiled up at the Fairies before turning the smile to his Devoted. “The perfect way to kick off a new beginning, don't you think?” He asked softly, wrapping an arm around her before kissing the top of her head and holding her close. Arela nodded, nuzzling into her love's embrace.

“That was downright beautiful, yew two,” Ronzul applauded, drawing everyone's attention. “But Ah think we should git on with tha' event, aye? Specifically, tha' dance,” Ronzul reminded.

Hikan nodded his head before starting to lead Arela back inside. The others joined them as they arrived in a small makeshift ballroom. The man smiled a bit before looking to his Devoted. “Almost like the day we met, isn't it?” She nodded, smiling up at him.

“I think we both know the right music for this, too,” Arela told him.

The hunter's smile widened a bit. “I think we do,” he replied before his four will-o'-wisps formed in the air and each floated to a different corner before music began to play. The entire group danced for what must have been hours, Hikan and Arela too lost in one another's eyes to notice anything but themselves as they danced beautifully.

When the dancing was over and the party ended, Hikan led Arela to their room, opening the door for her. Arela walked in and turned around, a confused look on her face.

The hunter entered the room and closed the door before he turned and noticed his Devoted's look. “…What?” He questioned before rubbing a hand on the corner of his mouth. “Do I still have cake on my face?”

“No, no, just… Why did you bring me here?” she asked, curious and confused.

Hikan shared her confused look. “This is our room,” he said raising an eyebrow. “Why…?”

“Oh… I thought you-” she shook her head, blushing madly. “N-N-Nevermind.”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before the realization hit him. “O-oh,” he said quietly before he stepped forward and put his hands gently on her arms. “After everything you… i-it just never crossed my mind…”

“W-Well… To be honest… I've been, w-w-wanting to raise a child…” Arela admitted. She looked away with a mad blush. “Or two…”

Hikan was quiet for a moment, letting his hands go down her arms so he could take her hands. “…Why didn't you say something sooner?” he asked quietly, looking into her eyes. “You know I'd do anything for you….”

“W-Well, I've just… I've been scared of having something in me again…” Arela admitted, glancing at her feet.

Hikan was silent once more before slowly and gently using the knuckle of his finger to lift her gaze to meet his. He looked into her eyes for a moment before he let out a breath, closed his own eyes and touched his forehead to hers. “…Do you trust me?” He asked quietly. She nodded.

“Yes…” she said honestly. Hikan opened his eyes at that, once more looking into her eyes before kissing her gently.

She returned the kiss hesitantly, but slowly got more into it. The hunter deepened the kiss at a slow pace, slowly bringing his hand to the middle of her back. Her wings twitched a bit at this as she raised her hands to his chest, clutching his shirt. Hikan held the kiss for a few more moments before he parted his lips from hers, if only just barely. Arela was panting lightly at this, looking into his eyes with a blush dusting her cheeks.

“…Are you ready?” He asked simply, a bit of worry still edging his voice.

“Yeah…” She said, nodding her head as she gazed into his eyes.

Hikan watched her for a moment before he nodded and kissed her once more, pouring more passion into the kiss than before. Arela moaned a little, wings twitching more as she let him deepen the kiss. The man's hands slowly came down to rest on her hips, resting there for a moment as the kiss continued. She withdrew from him, looking into his eyes with need, yet hesitance.

“U-U-Um… Could you… T-T-Touch my wings?” she asked. Hikan smiled gently before nodding ever so slightly.

“Anything for you,” he answered, his hand coming up to rub the base of her wing. The effect was immediate, as she moaned at his touch, her wing twitching a little while she squirmed. Hikan smiled a bit before the hand resting on her hip reached towards her rear as his other hand traced the edge of her wing.

Arela clutched his shirt more tightly, moaning louder. Hikan squeezed her rear as he slowly ran his hand down the feathers of her wing. Arela bit her lip, looking up at her Devoted as she squirmed under his caresses. Hikan met her eyes and let his reservations leave him as he hugged her to him, kissing her with every bit of pent up physical emotion that had built up during the two years of their relationship, one hand massaging her rear as the other worked at the base of her wings.

Arela moaned more at this, and surprised him by slowly trailing a hand to his crotch. At his look, she simply smiled timidly.

“You've been waiting a long time, r-r-right…?” she queried. Hikan felt his body shudder a bit at her touch before he nodded.

“Yes,” he answered truthfully.

“W-Well…” she started to undo his zipper. When she had, she blushed as she saw his member's outline through his underwear.

Hikan felt his face warm up a bit. “Um… maybe this… maybe this wasn't the best idea...:” He muttered. Arela shook her head rapidly.

“N-No, it's fine!” she assured him. She glanced down at his twin members, outlined by his boxers as the two large phalluses pressed against the fabric. “I-I-I'm actually a little… c-c-c-curious…”

Hikan was quiet for a long while. “I… um…” he said awkwardly before clearing his throat. “I think Dorkifu has been affecting me more and more as things go by….”

“O-Oh…” Arela said, making an 'o' with her mouth. She glanced back down to his two members, then slowly grabbed the hem of his boxers. “Well, let's not w-waste time…”

Hikan was quiet for a moment before he nodded. “As long as you're still sure….” He said. Arela pulled them down to reveal a pair of cocks that didn't look like they belonged on a man. The bases started thicker than the shaft, but the changes didn't stop there. Around the reproductive organs spread black scales that disappeared under his shirt and boxers. Arela blushed a deeper shade of crimson, and slowly reached a hand to each cock, closing her hands around them.

Hikan felt his entire body shake and shudder as he felt her contact, forcing out a heavy breath from the depths of his lungs. “Ohhhhh…. Okay…” He murmured quietly, bowing his head a little.

“They're so warm…” Arela noted, squeezing them a little as she felt them up, slowly stroking them. The assassin shivered again and he took a breath.

“S-Sensitive, t-too…” he muttered before he reigned in enough motor skills to start massaging the base of her wings once more. Arela moaned a little at this, stroking him faster before noting he was leaking pre. With a blush, she hesitantly licked it up, her warm tongue lapping at the tips of his members as she did until she retracted her appendage.

Hikan gasped and groaned as waves of pleasure shot through him, his hands once again coming to a stop. Arela looked up to see his blushing face, and managed a giggle.

“Seems you liked that,” she noted, looking down to his members. Hikan took a few breaths as his penises twitched in response.

“Yeah… yeah that was…” he started to say, only to have to focus on taking in more air.

Arela giggled, making him gasp again as she trailed licks up the length of one of his cocks, doing the same with the other. Hikan's wings flared out and his tail waved as he suddenly swayed, his extra appendages helping him to keep his balance as his Devoted worked on his members. She started to suckle on the tip of one of them while her other hand stroked the remaining one swiftly. The hunter put a hand to her shoulder, further steadying himself as he felt pressure begin to build up inside his twin penises.

“Arie, I-” He started, only to gasp for breath as his body shuddered, one of his wings flapping frantically to keep him on his feet. Arela looked up at him, then suddenly shoved half of his cock down her throat while her hands went to his other phallus and balls. Hikan moaned as he felt his cocks unleash shots of cum, half into the angel's throat and the other half onto her chest.

Arela swallowed what got in her throat before letting her mouth off of his cock with a wet pop. She hummed before looking up at him.

“It doesn't taste too bad,” she noted, looking down at her cum covered dress. “I'll have to get this cleaned, though…”

“S-sorry,” the man apologized, his wings flapping periodically to keep him up straight. After a moment, he was confident enough to look down at her and give a little smile. “But I do believe it's time to return the favor.” Arela blushed, but nodded, walking over to the bed and laying down on it on her back. Hikan waited until she was comfortable before coming over to the bed, slowly striping out of his suit as he did so, leaving a trail of clothing behind him and revealing that the black scales traveled up to his pectoral muscles and down half of his upper leg, softer orange scales plating his stomach.

Arela blushed as she took in his toned physique and scarred form, squirming a little on the bed. “Y-You look handsome…” she complimented.

Hikan's smile grew a bit at this before he leaned over her and put his hands to either side of her. “Not nearly as beautiful as you are,” he answered matter-of-factly before planting a gentle kiss on her lips.

Arela blushed more at this, wings wrapping around him instinctively. Hikan pressed deeper into the kiss as he felt his Devoted's wings press in on him, bringing one hand to her hip and sliding it up her side to the edge of her dress. Arela moaned into the kiss as he did this. The man worked his fingers under the dress and started to pull it down, slowly revealing the bra hidden underneath.

Arela's B cup breasts were one piece of clothing away from being bare, and Hikan couldn't help but stare at the long scar that trailed up her body, as well as her breasts. The man ran his fingers over her stomach and up to her bra. Arela watched as he did this, running her own hands over his abs. The man began to massage the angel's breast through her bra. She moaned loudly at this. The hunter smiled gently before kissing her gently once more, seperating as he slid her dress the rest of the way off, tossing it to the side. He slowly began to plant kisses down her neck, her collar, and her chest. He paused at her breasts, kissing softly on the exposed flesh of one as his hand worked to remove the bra, all the while his other hand gently ran over her lower body to and massage over the angel's slit.

Arela gasped at this, her wings twitching erratically as she clutched the bed sheets. Hikan felt his Devoted's bra come loose, slowly peeling it off and moving it out of the way much like he had her dress. With her breasts fully exposed, the man once again kissed the soft flesh, his lips meeting her skin around her sensitive nipple, his hand massaging her other breast, his finger occasionally running over her nipple.

“My love…!” Arela moaned, legs squirming under him. Hikan hummed as his kissing met her areola, his hand beginning to slip underneath her panties. Arela bit her lip from the waves of pleasure that ran over her body, panting at her love's ministrations. Hikan lifted his lips from his lover's breast, his warm breath tickling her nipple as he used his hands to massage her other breast and slide down her panties. He kissed her nipple once more as he slipped the undergarments off and discarded them the same as he had done her dress and bra before he once again began to trail kisses down the angel's body, going over her stomach, waist and hovering over her slit.

He smiled as he saw how wet she was, and she looked down at him with a deep blush as she reached her hands towards his head and pulled him to her needy slit. Hikan let out a little grin before he surrendered to his Devoted's wishes. He licked at her juices, lapping them up fervently as his hands ran up and massaged her sides. Arela moaned loudly, gripping his head firmly as she pressed him further into her lower lips. The man continued to lick at her womanhood before pressing his lips forward, tongue snaking into her.

“Oh gods…” Arela gasped, feeling her climax incoming. Hikan hummed, deep and reverberating as his tongue tasted her insides, bringing one hand down to play with her clitoris as his other came up to massage her breast once more, fingering, rubbing around and tickling her nipple. Arela let out a scream of pleasure as she came hard, her juices overflowing in the man's mouth.

Hikan withdrew his tongue from his lover's lower lips, lapping up as much of the juices as he could before planting a gentle kiss over her clit before coming to hover over her once more, his twin cocks rubbing against her womanhood. Arela panted as she rubbed back, looking up at him with need. The man looked down into her eyes, his question dying in his throat as he kissed her briefly and lovingly. She looked down at his twin cocks with some hesitance, but seemed to make up her mind when she looked up at him and nodded.

The man nodded shortly in return before he gyrated his hips, one of his cocks pressing against her entrance before pushing its way inside, the ridges on the underside of his other penis rubbing against her clitoris. Arela moaned at his entry and the feeling of his other warm cock on her clit, and as the man pushed inside, he could feel that the inside of her was scarred as well. Thankfully, she didn't appear to be in pain. Hikan frowned a bit sadly, his hand coming to cup her face gently and bring her gaze to his before he kissed her gently.

Arela prodded his mouth with her tongue at this, requesting entry. The man opened his mouth and their tongues danced with one another as the man began to move his members, slowly starting to pull out of her before pushing back in. Arela moaned into the kiss, wrapping her arms and then wings around him tightly, her legs coming around to lock him in place. Hikan wrapped his arms under her back and shoulders as he felt his own wings come up to meet hers, scales beginning to vibrate gently against her feathers. The man arched his back a little as he continued to move his hips back and forth, sliding in and out faster and faster with each gyration, the ridges under his penises rubbing against her insides and clit.

Arela bit back a moan as she withdrew her mouth from Hikan's, holding him tighter to her as she looked up at him with a blush and the fire of need in her eyes. The man needed no other signal as he pulled his cock almost all the way out before pushing back in slowly, the tip of his second cock joining the other inside as they pushed her open.

Arela moaned louder than she had before, Hikan gritting his teeth at the tightness that his twin cocks now felt. Nevertheless, he pushed forward until his cocks sat hilted inside of her, the man giving a moment of pause to let the angel's insides grow accustomed to the twin girths. As they waited, Hikan panted and looked into her eyes.

Arela met his gaze with eyes full of lust and love. “Please… Give me a child,” she pleaded. The man nodded and kissed her as he withdrew his twin rods and stuffed them back in. He repeated this, each thrust growing faster as he pounded into her, arms holding her tight. Arela moaned, yelped, and moaned again and again as her lover pounded her like an animal. “My love…! My love…!” she cried in ecstasy.

Hikan could only grunt in response as he grit his teeth together and continued to hammer into her again and again, reaching deeper as his cocks throbbed and began to bulge as pressure built up once more in his shafts. Soon he felt the tips of his rods touch another entrance deep inside her. He couldn't help but smile as she gasped in pleasure, and he grit his teeth once more as he felt that wave of pleasure travel through him at her shudder. He felt his body respond and hips buck forward harder and faster, the tips of his cocks spreading open her cervix. He lifted his gaze as the pounding continued. “Arie, I'm gonna…” he tried to warn before grunting as he thrust hard into her. His lips suddenly met her neck, kissing and sucking at the sensitive flesh as he gently pressed his teeth into the surrounding area.

“I-I-Inside! Do it inside! I want your child!” Arela told him through her gasps and moans. Hikan felt a rumble roll through his throat as he sucked at the love-bite, his thrusts still growing stronger as the tips of his shafts entered her uterus over and over. Suddenly, his arms tightened around her and he pulled his cocks almost all the way out before slamming them back in as deep and hard as he could. His dicks throbbed violently as they shot rope after rope of cum inside of her, quickly filling the angel's uterus with his double load. Arela moaned loudly, gripping him tightly to herself as she screamed in ecstasy, her walls clamping down on his cocks and milking them for all they were worth. Hikan groaned and slowly pulled off of the love mark he had made, thrusting his hips a few more times to shoot out several more waves of his seed.

Finally, he pulled out, his seed leaking a little onto the bedsheets. “That was… amazing…” Arela panted. Hikan panted as his wings slumped. He tilted to the side and fell onto the bed beside his lover, wrapping his arms around her as he held her close.

“Definitely… worth the wait,” he agreed through heavy breaths. Arela wrapped her arms around her lover as well, nuzzling into him.

“Yeah…” she agreed, smiling happily.

Finally, feelings of love had been completely cemented and the two were bonded, body and soul. Night Raid only grew stronger with this, the family of assassins only forming greater ties to one another as their strength grew and their hunt for the Circle continued. However, it wouldn't be for another month or so before the group was given the breakthrough they needed….

Chapter 13

Something has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.

Chapter 14

It had been a few weeks since the raid on the Circle’s drug ring, and Asala had been training the group hard. The first thing he taught them all was how to use ki, although it was still a learning process for them and none could fly with it yet. Of course, most of them did not need to, but Asala assured them learning to would give them more speed in flight. Regardless, all they could do was create orbs of it and launch them. So, in the afternoons, Asala would have them work on energy control, and in the early mornings, he would have them work on speed and power.

Currently, they were all in the main training room, trying to land just one hit on Asala with whatever means they could, as they were told to by the alien.

“Hyah!” Shanghai shouted, striking at Asala with her broadsword, only for him to disappear and flick her on the head, sending her back.

“Nice try,” he said. “But try to use your ki more.”

A ki blast shot towards Asala's head, burning with turquoise light. Asala deflected the blast with his tail, knocking it towards Shell. The Changeling's eyes widened as the blast soared towards her before she thrust her arms forward, palms out and a thin ki shield formed only to be shattered as the blast detonated against it. Starlight winced as Shell was thrown back a little ways. “Sorry, Shell!” She called out. Asala was suddenly right by Starlight, and her eyes widened as he whacked her away with his tail, knocking the unicorn into Alexandria. Alexandria caught Starlight and quickly put her on her feet.

“Thanks, Alex,” the mare said, readying her hands for another go.

“No problem,” Alexandria said, before taking to the air and rushing Asala, firing several blasts of electrically charged ki at him.

Asala launched his own barrage, these ones being green, tossing them like a certain warrior all feared, and then launched two more at Alexandria. Asala's ki blasts moved many times faster than Alexandria's reaction time, and it was nigh impossible for her to dodge. When they collided with her, he appeared behind her and flicked her forehead.

“Too obvious. Try again,” he said, then had to dodge a deep red coloured blast from Ayis, which he did so easily. She yelped when she was punched into the falling Alexandria, the two landing in a compromising position. Arela tried to sneak up behind him, only for him to flip over her head, and then grab her with his tail, spin once, and throw her into Hikan. Ronzul tried to create a blast in his hands, being the one most unused to using energy like this, and thus he was slow. Asala simply grabbed the dwarf by the arm, canceling the charging attack, and slammed him into the ground. “Too slow. Try again.”

Hikan caught Arela around the middle with his arms, slowing her down before putting her on her feet, all without using the black, clawed digits of his hands. “You okay?” He asked, fear in his voice. Arela nodded, groaning a little bit as she rubbed her neck.

“The grip was a bit tight, but I'm fine,” she said. “He didn't grab me hard enough to choke me.”

“Battle has no conversation, lest the converser wishes to die,” Asala said from behind them. “Unless you were trying to distract them, there is no point.”

Hikan looked over his shoulder, the four-pointed pupil in his eye narrowing to a slit cross. “C'mere!” He shouted, spinning and spreading the claws wide as he poured ki into them before he threw out five arches of slash-like energy. Asala simply batted them away with his hands, and then sped over to Hikan and punched him in the face, making him tumble head over heels a number of times. Then Nyilla came hurling through the air, having been thrown by someone. She brought her fist forward, an aura of deep red ki surrounding it. Asala turned just in time for her fist to meet his face mask, and though he did not budge, he did retract his mask, and then look down to her as she fell to the ground.

“Very good, Miss Nyilla!” he praised. He looked to the others, all panting and sweating from the hours of training. “Well, that's it for now, everyone. Feel free to do as you wish, now.” He looked down to Nyilla. “You, little one, get to have an ice cream cone!” Ayis groaned.

“Ugh… Always denied the good stuff…” she mumbled as she removed her face from her Devoted's chest. As she glanced at Nyilla, she saw the Fairy looking at her with a smug look and her tongue sticking out.

Hikan put his clawed hands under him and pushed himself up, taking deep, heavy breaths as he did. Asala noticed this.

“Are you alright there, Hikan?” he queried, a tinge of concern in his voice. The man gave a gruff grunt in response to this as he got back to his feet, tail dragging on the ground.

“I'll be fine…” he answered, turning away before starting to walk off the training arena and towards the private rooms.

“Ah'll be back at mah hovel, if'n ya need me,” Ronzul said, walking out of the room after picking himself up. Arela watched her Devoted go with a sad and concerned look. A hand rested on the angel's shoulder.

“How's he doing?” Starlight asked gently. Arela shook her head.

“Not good. He's been getting worse by the day,” she told the unicorn. Starlight looked to the angel before watching Hikan's retreating form. The claws that swayed at his sides, the devilish horns that poked out of his hairline.

Starlight's eyes watered for a moment before she just patted the angel's shoulder. “Just… hang in there,” she said in a voice barely above a whisper. “He'll come back around….”

“Starlight, he's been like this since you two woke up. And he won't talk to me about it, either,” Arela told the unicorn. She looked to Hikan, then hung her head. “Has… Do you think he… lost interest in me?” Arela asked fearfully.

The unicorn opened her mouth to answer before closing it again. “Of course he hasn't.” Starlight turned to see Shell walking towards them. “If anything, he loves you now more than ever.”

“Right.... Thanks, Shell,” Arela said, before turning and walking away. Starlight watched her go worriedly before giving a sigh and turning towards Shell.

“Look after her, won't you?” She said in passing before she headed off in the opposite direction, Cataclysm shimmering into existence next to her as she walked. The Changeling looked between the two retreating pairs before giving a sigh.

“If only they could see what I could…” she muttered before following after Arela and Hikan at a distance. Asala watched this from afar, stroking his chin in thought as Nyilla licked her cone of ice cream, which he had made with the one spell he knew: Magic Materialization. He sighed before walking out of the room as well, then to the courtyard, where he found Elise waiting for him, the bow Teigu, L'Arc Qui Ne Faut, in her hands.

“Alright, I'm ready for today's lessons Asala,” she said as Asala approached. Asala nodded.

“Good,” he said, walking over, before walking a bit farther, so he was opposite her, as well as a good distance away. “Today, we focus on speed. Should you need arrows, just tell me, and I will make some for you.”

“Ugh…” Elise grumbled under her breath. “Alright, I'll see what I can do.” She then turned to face Asala, putting her free hand to the full quiver, preparing to loose the whole quiver of ten as fast as she could. She took a deep breath, then took the first arrow, nocked it, drew the bowstring and let the arrow fly before quickly moving her hand back to the quiver to grab another arrow. The process took around three seconds for each arrow. The amount of spread on the arrows was rather massive too, not a single one coming even close to Asala. By the time Elise loosed the ninth arrow, Asala could almost picture the smoke above Elise's head; she was downright fuming. As Elise drew the bowstring with the tenth and final arrow of the quiver nocked, she angrily shouted one word: “Asala!” She then loosed the arrow, which went way off course, only to change its trajectory mid-flight and beeline for Asala. Asala sighed, grabbing the arrow out of the air and breaking it.

“Temper, Lady Elise. Just keep trying,” he told her calmly.

“Mmmmmff…” Elise growled angrily. After a moment, she sighed. “I dunno why we gotta practice firing speed when I can barely loose an arrow as it is.”

“It is one of the basics of using a bow, Lady Elise,” Asala explained.

“Yeah,” Elise said. “But wouldn't I need to know how to properly loose an arrow before I can start loosing them faster?”

“You learn both skills as you go, but, if you so prefer, we can focus on just the one,” Asala said. Elise sighed again.

“Well… You definitely know more than I do, that much is clear,” she said. “If you think I should be learning both together, then that's probably the way I should be doing it.” She then went to start collecting the nine arrows that were littering the courtyard. “Just lemme get these arrows back and I'll be ready to continue.”

“Very well,” Asala said, staying where he was.

Meanwhile, Hikan sat on the edge of the couch in his and Arela's room. The same place he'd been sleeping since coming out of the stasis pod. He stared down at his claws. The sparkling white talons. The black scales. The orange accents. His fingers clenched and he squeezed his claws into his palms, pushing harder and harder until a single, minuscule drop of blood seeped out from under one of his talons. He gave a sigh and let his hands fall open, still staring at the small droplet of blood.

A knock sounded at the door. “My love…? Can I come in?” came the voice of Arela. The man looked up from his spot on the couch.

“Arie…” he said, his voice monotone and only just audible through the door. “You don't have to ask permission to come into our room….” The door opened, and Arela walked in. She moved over to him, sitting down next to him and resting her head on his lap. Hikan didn't move as she did this, simply letting her do it. She shot a frown his way.

“My love…” she said softly. She reached a hand up to his face. “Please… talk to me.”

The hunter stayed quiet for a long while. “…I don't know what to say…” he answered quietly. Arela was starting to tear up.

“Do you… Do you not love me anymore…?” she asked, fearing the answer.

The man winced at that. His hand moved instinctively to hold hers only to hesitate and come to rest once more on his knee. “…Of course I still love you, Arie,” he answered. Arela was crying openly now, her tears falling down her face to the couch below.

“Then why do you not embrace me? Why do you shy away from my touch? My love, is it my body? Am I unsatisfactory? Please, tell me!” Arela sobbed.

Hikan looked at his Devoted with misery in his eyes. “Arie, it's not you,” he said, his hands moving to hold her only to stop. “It's not you. It's not your body. You're definitely not unsatisfactory. The problem is… it's….” He paused for a moment and looked back down at the floor, turning his palms upward where the tiny droplet had trailed a red line over his palm. “…The problem is me….” Arela looked at him in shock, her tears falling faster.

“I'm… I'm turning into a monster, Arie,” he said quietly, voice tightening. “A-and after what happened to you… I can't stand thinking that one misstep. One single slip… and I could hurt you….”

“My love…” Arela began, before tackling the man, the two falling back on the couch as Arela looked into his eyes with her own tearful ones. They were filled with pain. “I am yours. And you are mine. I would never consider you a monster. Even if you hurt me, I know it would never be intentionally, that it would be a mistake, and I would never fault you for that.” She gripped his shirt tightly. “So please…” she said, hot tears falling onto his chest. “…Don't berate or make yourself out to be some monster. Because you are the man I love. And seeing you like this…” Her lip quivered as tears aplenty fell from her beautiful face, marring it with their streaks. “…That's what really hurts me.”

Hikan's eyes stared wide up into hers before his look of surprise faded into sorrow. His finger twitched and ever so slowly, his hand lifted towards her crying eyes and, for the first time, the talon on his thumb retracted. Gently, his hand cupped her face, his thumb gently wiping away the tears that streamed down her face. “I'm so sorry…” he whispered, voice tightening up as tears welled up in his cross-pupiled eyes. Arela pressed her face against his hand, one of her own reaching up to grasp it as she finally smiled at him, tears still falling.

“I'll forgive you…” she said, before burying her head in his chest. She then looked up at him, still smiling. “…As long as you never do this again, and give me a second child to mother.”

Hikan gave a small chuckle at that. “I can do that,” he said before lifting up to place a kiss on her lips. Arela kissed him back fiercely.

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!” Elise's extremely frustrated scream from all the way in the courtyard suddenly cut the mood to smithereens in an instant.

Hikan gave a sigh. “…Elise is practicing archery again,” he muttered. Arela giggled a bit.

“Yeah…” she said as she placed her head against his chest again, hugging him, her wings wrapping around him as well. The hunter smiled and wrapped his arms around her, his claws withdrawing into his fingertips.

“I love you,” he said quietly.

“I love you more,” Arela said softly. The man simply chuckled and held her a bit tighter, enjoying the physical contact he'd kept himself from for weeks.

Outside, Starlight sat on the edge of one of the wall towers, Cataclysm curled up behind her as she stared out at the rest of the city. A small sigh escaped her, drawing her knee up to her chest and wrapping her arms around it as her other leg hung off the edge. She heard the sound of feet behind her, and turned to see Asala standing there.

“Something wrong, Miss Glimmer?” he queried, stopping beside her.

The mare turned back to look out once more. “Just… thinking about things I should've said,” she answered, her chin coming to rest on her knee. Asala hummed in thought.

“'Love is blind', yes?” he said out of nowhere.

The mare let out a mirthless huff of laughter. “Yeah…” she said. “I… I didn't think I'd never get the chance to tell him how I feel….” Asala nodded.

“Miss Biore told me your situation. From what she said, she's been waiting for the right time to tell him about you,” he said. He looked down to her. “I told her recently you should be the one to do it. You still have a chance. From what I've gathered, she agreed to a herd with you. So, the question is, why do you wait?”

Starlight was quiet for a moment. Her eyes swam with so many emotions, but her lips never parted. 'She's scared.'

“CAT!” Starlight shouted, rounding on the Nil Dragon, the demon lifting his head to match her gaze with his.

'What? You weren't going to say it,' Cataclysm challenged. 'If you kept up like this, you would have just… withered….' The mare was quiet at that, staring at the demon's eyes before she gave a sigh. Asala smiled at Starlight, sitting down next to her.

“Fear is good. It drives you. But letting it rule you is far from good. Don't let it be a tyrant. Let it be a stepping stone to a new future with the man you love,” Asala advised. The unicorn looked up at the alien, her eyes searching his for some answer.

“…How?” She asked. Asala smiled, lightly flicking her with his tail.

“You know the answer to that,” he told her. “Simply go up, and ask him. That's all there is to it. If he turns you down, then move on. Life is about continuing the journey. Don't let it end or stop short because of fear.” Starlight stared at him before looking away towards the city street below.

“…It's that simple?” Asala nodded, patting her shoulder.

“Yes, yes it is,” he told her truthfully. The mare was quiet for a second before she jumped off the ledge. The street below rushed up to meet her and she closed her eyes before flipping her legs over her head and putting her hooves under her before turquoise magic spread from her horn to the rest of her body. She slowed her descent until she came to a gentle landing on the sidewalk, and going to enter the front door.

Back at the top of the tower, Cataclysm stared over the edge. '…That went well.'

“Hush. She is fine. If the look on her face was any indication, then the talk actually did go well,” Asala told the dragon.

The demon rumbled in his throat. 'Almost sounds like you doubted how that would play out,' Cataclysm replied with an amused snort. Asala flicked the dragon on the snout.

“Hush,” he said, although it was obvious the dragon was right. Cataclysm sneezed softly at the thump before looking up at the alien.

'…I'll bite you,' the demon warned, throwing his head back a bit and letting a rumble run through his throat, though it wasn't exactly threatening. Asala gave the demon a look.

“You could certainly try. I wouldn't recommend it, though, not unless you wish to be my next meal,” Asala shot back. The demon gave a draconic chuckle.

'I probably don't taste all that good,' he replied before laying his chin on his legs. '…You really think she has it in her?'

“Young Cat, never underestimate the will of women,” Asala told Cataclysm, leaning back. “Never.”

Hikan walked through the base with a lighter step, a sort of glow to him. Then, Marisa came up to him carrying Nyilla.

“Hey Hikan,” Marisa said. “I really wanna use a Teigu, 'cept all of 'em have rejected me. I was wonderin' if you could do somethin' about that. I brought Nyilla too, 'cause she also wants a Teigu.”

“I feel like I'm not really all that helpful,” Nyilla explained. “I can't do much on my own, so I thought I'd be more helpful with one, except they're all too big for me.”

Hikan turned to look at them with a raised eyebrow. “First off… how many times have you gone to the infirmary, Marisa?”

Marisa grinned. “I lost count,” she said. The man stared at her for a long while before his hand met his face and he sighed.

“You know you could've been killed, right?” He asked in a flat tone.

“Yup.” The hunter just shook his head.

“Okay…” he said before looking forward again, continuing towards the armory. “Did you at least feel one that was kinda not as painful as the others?”

“The ax one,” Marisa answered. “It wasn't so much excruciatin' as it was just very painful.”

Hikan nodded his head at that. “You understand that even if what I'm planning works, there's no guarantee that it'll bond with you.”

“Couldn't we just keep tryin' then?”

Hikan looked down at her with a stern look. “Depends,” he said, gaze still stuck to hers. “Do you want to die for something as trivial as a Teigu?”

“These Teigu seem really cool and powerful,” Marisa said, meeting his gaze with her typical casual grin. “They don't seem too trivial to me.”

Hikan simply searched her eyes before looking around. “What I'm going to try could depreciate the abilities of the weapon, or even drop how much it takes to kill someone if it doesn't bond with them.”

“By the same logic, it could improve the abilities or make it less likely to kill someone when rejectin' 'em, right?” Marisa argued.

Hikan pursed his lips. “…We're dabbling in science and alchemy that is centuries old,” he answered. “The only record of how these weapons were made was a single book… a book that was destroyed.”

“Yeah, okay, but if you think about it, my argument could still be true, right?” Marisa said. “If it could make 'em worse, then it's only natural that it could also make 'em better instead.”

“It's not that simple,” Hikan said, his voice becoming even more worried as they reached the armory. “Here, in this world, I do not have the same materials, or even the same form of magicks. What I do will not make them any less likely to kill you. Maybe up their power, maybe change their abilities, hell, even their temperaments, but… it can only increase the killing power towards any they deem unworthy.”

Marisa was silent for several moments. “…Fine. I'm willin' to take my chances,” she finally said, a serious expression on her face for once. “And if I die, that'll be my fault, and my full responsibility.”

The man was silent for a long moment before he nodded his head. “So long as we're on the same page,” he said before looking towards Nyilla. “The same applies to you, too.”

“Actually,” Nyilla started. “If one of these Teigu things rejects me, I won't feel any pain, and it sure as the Wastes won't be able to kill me. So, if you ask me, it doesn't really matter.”

The hunter gave a little sigh before pushing the door open. “On your head be it,” he muttered. “Now, let's get your Teigu picked out. Marisa, if you would please retrieve Belvaac.” Marisa nodded quickly before heading to the safe the Teigu were stored in and opening it. She placed Nyilla down inside, then picked up Belvaac. Nyilla looked around at the other Teigu inside before her gaze fell on the ring, the smallest Teigu they had. She grabbed it before following Marisa out of the safe.

“All set?” Hikan asked, looking between the two of them.

“You betcha,” Marisa answered, using her foot to close the safe behind her.

“Yes,” Nyilla said simply.

Hikan nodded before turning on his heel. “Let's get to the forge, then,” he said, starting to walk away. “And hope that everything goes right at the end of all this.”

Marisa's eyes lit up. “So you're gonna be reforgin' these Teigu?” she asked. The man nodded in response.

“That is the only way I can think of to change the weapon's affinity for you,” Hikan said. “As for Black Marlin… well, if we're resizing it for Nyilla….”

“Well, I wouldn't say resizing would be what I was thinking of when I grabbed the ring,” Nyilla responded. “You were talking about how the abilities could end up changing, so I just grabbed the smallest one. Seemed to make sense to me.”

Hikan shrugged. “Fair enough,” he said as they approached the doors of the forge room. “I hope Ronzul has stocked up on durable metals.”

“This is Ronzul we're talkin' about,” Marisa pointed out. “I'm sure he's got more than plenty of metals.” The man opened the doors and immediately squinted his eyes as the heat hit him. His visor formed over his eyes before he stepped the rest of the way inside.

Inside was a number of smelters, shelves behind them filled with metals that were both familiar and alien. A forge was in front of the smelters, a number of channels from them leading towards it. An anvil rested beside the forge, and as they walked closer, they saw that the shelves had plaques to show which metal was which. Ronzul was currently rummaging through one of them when he noticed the three.

“Well 'ello there! What brings yew all ta' tha' forge?” he queried, turning to them with a bronze bar of metal in his hand.

“Marisa and Nyilla are dead set on Teigu,” Hikan answered. “And rather than let the former kill herself trying to force it, I decided it'd be best to try and reforge them instead.”

“Ah see… Well, allow me ta' help ya then. Yew'll need a dwarf's touch fer this,” Ronzul said.

The hunter was hesitant for a moment before he nodded. “Alright,” he relented. “Two sets of hands are better than one, but all the same we'll still have to be careful.”

“Lad, Ah've helped make tha' very kinds o' crossbow yew've kept on ya, and those are more o' a pain ta' make then yew may think. A lot more,” Ronzul told the hunter. “Trust me, we'll be fine.”

Hikan nodded. “Let's get started then,” he said before turning towards the others and holding out a hand. “Marisa, if you would please.”

“I've been thinkin',” Marisa said as she handed the ax Teigu to Hikan. “I've always wanted to try usin' a lance. Hmmm, or maybe a flail… Ooh, or a big hammer… No, I can't quite decide… I think I'm leanin' towards a lance though…”

Hikan raised an eyebrow as he drew Belvaac towards him, sharing a look with the dwarf. “…Actually…” he murmured before looking back towards Marisa. “Could you go find Shell for me?”

Marisa was confused by the sudden request. “Huh? Why?” she asked.

“I may need her help,” the man answered simply before turning to Ronzul. “You ready to get started?”

“Lad, a dwarf is always ready ta’ smith,” Ronzul told the hunter with a toothy grin as he put the bronze bar down. Marisa was silent for a few moments before she shrugged and left to get Shell.

“Let's get started, then,” Hikan said before turning to the forge with the Teigu in hand.

“Right, lad. We're reforging it, correct?” At Hikan's nod, he gestured to one of the smelters. “Then toss it in one o' those, and we'll git started.” The man lifted the weapon, pausing just for a moment to look at the ax.

“…Won't take long… promise,” he said quietly before putting the weapon into the smelter. After that, Ronzul moved over to the bellows and used his foot to press on it, keeping the forge at a good heat level. He pointed to the pile of coal with a shovel nearby.

“Start shovelin' some coal in 'ere, lad,” he told Hikan. The man complied and made his way to the pile, taking up the spade before beginning his task.

This continued for a good while, up until Ronzul motioned for him to stop and moved over to a lever by one of the channels, pulling it and changing where the molten metal would flow. Then, he moved back to the smelter and opened its door to the channel, allowing the metal of Belvaac to pour out and down the channel, and then over to a pool for the metal. Ronzul walked over and then looked to Hikan.

“Go grab that li'l Flame Tosser. We'll need it ta' keep tha' metal hot until tha' lass comes back so we can imbue it with tha' right properties,” Ronzul said, pointing to what looked like a primitive flamethrower. Again the man nodded, striking the shovel into the ground before sliding off the heavy coat he wore, followed by his shirt and throwing them in an out-of-the-way corner. With that, he made his way to the device and hefted it.

“No wonder you dwarves are so good at this,” he said as he made his way over. “I had to remake Dorkifu with a hammer and tongs.”

“Well, bein' the favored children o' tha' Divine Smith helps too,” Ronzul said with a grin. Hikan just chuckled.

“So… what exactly do you want me to do with this thing?” The hunter asked.

“Git it on, then use it on tha' metal ta' keep it nice and hot,” Ronzul explained. “There weren't enough room ta' allow me ta' make a proper Dalvasken, but a good ol' Flame Tosser is a close second.”

Hikan took a moment before looking the device over and finding how to turn it on. He then aimed it towards the melted metal of Belvaac and pulled the trigger. A torrent of white-hot flames jumped out of the tube, washing over the melted Belvaac and keeping it at the right temperature. It wasn't long after that before Marisa returned with Shell.

“I brought Shell,” she announced. Shell looked about nervously before her eyes stopped on the man.

“Um… what did you need?” She asked, her hand going behind her back to clutch onto her other arm.

“Nothing major, I promise,” Hikan answered, never looking away from his work. “But maybe a little odd. Do you have any hair or nail clippings we could use?”

The Changeling stared blankly at him. “S-some… what?” she questioned.

“Have you lost it Hikan?” Marisa asked, an equally as confused expression on her face. “'Cause it sounds to me like you've gone all kooky. Not sure what in Hakugyokurou you'd want Shell's hair or nail clippin's for.”

“For the power of change,” the man answered simply. “You wanted a lance, a flail, a hammer, so… why not all three?”

Shell stared at him for several long moments. “Why didn't you just say so?” She asked before stepping up next to him and extending a hand. Eldritch flames leaped to her fingertips before the magical flames jumped forward to combine with the Flame Tosser's. Marisa's eyes widened at Hikan's words. After a couple moments, a large grin spread across her face.

“Ooooooh, I've got a real good gut feelin' about this…” she said, rubbing her palms together, a familiar twinkle in her eye. Hikan glanced towards the witch before giving a little grin and turning back to his task.

“Alright, lad, Ah think that's good enough,” Ronzul said after a good few minutes of bathing the metal in flame. He looked to Marisa. “What do ya want tha' basic form ta' be? A spear?”

“I was leanin' more towards lance than anythin' else, so yeah. A lance,” Marisa answered. Ronzul nodded.

“Right,” he said, before walking over to another lever and pulling it, the metal disappearing down a drain. “Follow me, lad. Yew too, lass. We hafta' find tha' right mold fer ya.” He then made his way to a stairwell leading further down. “Quickly now!”

Hikan let go of the trigger, wiping his brow and setting the flame tosser aside before he followed the dwarf to the stairwell, Marisa not far behind. Once down there, they saw what looked to be a storage room of molds, all on shelves, with a forge and anvil in the center of the room and the channel next to the entrance of the stairwell, the channel connecting to a place where molds would be put. Ronzul walked over to one of the shelves.

“Alright, lass, pick a mold from one o' these,” he said, gesturing to the shelf he was at. Marisa came up to the shelf and looked over it. Soon, her eyes landed on a mold for a lance with an ornate tip on it. She picked it up, a sparkle in her eye.

“Aw, wow!” she said. “This one looks really badass!”

“Good eye, lass. That's one o' tha' few molds fer a Vilg Ah have left from when mah family last visited,” Ronzul appraised. He gestured to the channel. “Go place it at tha' end o' tha' channel, and we can really git started.” Marisa made her way over to the end of the channel with the mold.

“Mind if I ask what a Vilg is?” she asked as she walked.

“It's tha' name o' tha' famous lance mah family is known for makin' back in tha' heyday o' Lleiya. In tha' human tongue, it means, 'King's Piercer',” Ronzul explained as he walked over and pulled a lever, the molten metal pouring into the mold.

“Ooh,” Marisa said, clearly interested. “Did any of 'em have special names?”

“Well, there was tha' Northen Lion's Fang, or, 'Grity Fit Lang', in dwarven,” Ronzul said as he waited for the metal to cool down. “Then there was tha' Demon Queen's Gambit, or, 'Rilv Riyt Wronf'.” Ronzul then looked down at the now cooled metal and removed the mold, grabbed some gloves, put them on, and pulled the lance out. He gave it a once over, then looked to Marisa. “Whatcha think, lass?”

The shaft of the lance was relatively normal, if made of a strange, navy blue metal instead of wood and also being one piece with the tip. Said tip looked very abnormal however: it was a very elongated triangle shape with slightly rounded edges coming off of a circular disk. There was a slim, triangular hole hollowed out of the center of the triangular segment. The disk at the base was just a little wider than the rounded triangle, and there were two large barbs on each side of it. At the center of the disk, right at the bottom of the hollow bit, a small, blue, spherical stone, which seemed to be a sapphire, was embedded into the metal. The disk then made a steep taper into the shaft. Finally, all the outer edges of the tip were bladed and a glimmering golden colour.

“It looks so cool,” Marisa said, practically snatching the reforged Teigu from Ronzul's hands. Ronzul wrenched it from her grasp.

“Careful, lass. It's still quite hot. There be a reason Ah'm wearin' gloves,” he said.

“Oops, right,” Marisa said. “I got a bit over excited, heh.” Ronzul then took the lance over to a workbench that none of them had noticed before, near the corner. He looked to the drawers and hummed in thought.

“Lass, come over 'ere. Ah need ya ta' tell me which kind o' grip ya prefer,” Ronzul said. Marisa quickly made her way over.

“Preferably somethin' with a lotta traction,” Marisa said. “Somethin' that'd make it difficult to drop it.”

“Alright, let's see 'ere…” Ronzul started to rummage through some of the drawers, looking through different kinds of faux leathers and fabrics. Finally, he found some faux sheepskin, and gave it a once over. “This should do nicely!” he said as he grabbed the lance and wrapped the sheepskin around two points of it. First the bottom, then the top below the blade. Then, he fastened it securely by placing platinum rings at the edges of the wrapped areas, the rings popping on with a click as they fastened to it. Then, Ronzul turned to Marisa.

“Alright, lass, any kinds o' decoration ya want for this 'ere beauty? Ah could gild it or engrave it, if'n ya want,” Ronzul offered.

“No, it's plenty cool lookin' already,” Marisa said. “Ooh, I can't wait to try it out.” Ronzul chuckled, handing it to her.

“Alright then, 'ere ya go. Jus' be careful, it's still a bit hot,” he told her. Marisa grabbed the leather grips, hefting the weapon.

“Is it weird for me to say that it feels like it was meant for my hands?” she asked. “Or is that from a personal bias or somethin'? 'Cause I'm pretty sure I've fallen in love with this thing just lookin' at it.”

Hikan grinned and gave her a pat on the back. “That's because it was meant for your hands,” he said before backing up a little. “But, let's see if all that hard work paid off.”

“You said somethin' about the ability to change when you were talkin' to Shell, right?” Marisa said. “So, I should be able to change this from a lance to somethin' else?”

“Theoretically,” the hunter answered. “That's at least what I was going for.”

“Let's see if I can't get me a hammer then,” Marisa said. The words were barely out of her mouth before the lance head glowed white and became a round hammer with a thick spike on the back. The shaft remained unchanged, and the weapon as a whole was still a single piece, and still made from the navy blue metal. Finally, the hammer head was decorated with golden highlights, mostly situated on ridges.

“Well would ya look at that! Quite a sight, yeah?” Ronzul said with a laugh as he nudged Hikan with an elbow.

“Ha HAH!” Marisa laughed, hefting the hammer into the air triumphantly. While doing this, Marisa made a mental note of how lightweight the weapon seemed. “Take that! Ain't no pain either! I knew I had a real good gut feelin' about this!”

Hikan chuckled, crossing his arms over his chest as he leaned back a bit. “First impressions are a big part of it,” he said. “I had a feeling everything would turn out okay after you said you had a good feeling about it.”

“Now we just need to name it,” Marisa said, slinging the unnamed Teigu over her shoulder. As she did this, the hammer head glowed white and reverted to the original lance tip, signifying a return to its dormant state. “Got any suggestions Ronzul? Maybe some old Vilg your family made could gimme some ideas.”

“Well, there is Geirskögul, although Ah don' know what tha' word means, as it was coined by m'lord, Stateran, the Great Being,” Ronzul said.

“Ooh, that sounds cool,” Marisa said. “Very legendary and stuff. I like it, so I'm gonna be namin' this Teigu after it. From this moment forward, I hold Geirskögul, the universal polearm.”

“Sounds great ta' me, lass,” Ronzul said with a grin. Hikan simply smiled and shook his head.

“Just take care of it,” he said, letting his arms fall to his sides. “If you do, it'll take care of you. And remember that it still has tricks up its sleeve that we don't know about, so be careful.”

“That's great and all,” Nyilla interrupted, standing on the steps they'd used to enter the room, still holding Black Marlin. “But I'm still waiting you know.”

“Right, sorry Nyilla,” Hikan said, coming over to her. “What's say we get started?”

“Great,” Nyilla said. “I honestly don't care what you make for me, as long as it's small enough for me.”

“Fair enough,” Hikan said, holding his palm out for her to step up on, Nyilla gratefully doing so. The man carried her up the stairs back to the forge, his eyes screwing up in thought before he snapped the fingers of his unoccupied hand. “I think I got something.”

“What's that, lad?” Ronzul queried. Marisa silently followed them up, carrying the now-named Teigu, Universal Polearm: Geirskögul.

“A bit of a… reach advantage,” Hikan said before holding out his other hand to the fairy. “Ring, please.” Nyilla silently complied, dropping the Teigu into his palm. The man closed his hand around the tiny ring before turning to Shell. “Thank you. Now, if you would wait with Shell while me and Ronzul get this finished up.” He extended his hand to Shell who held out her own in response. Nyilla stepped onto Shell's palm and turned around to face Hikan before silently sitting down cross-legged.

The hunter nodded towards the fairy before turning to the dwarf. “You have any experience forging energy weapons?” He asked. Ronzul shook his head.

“Closest we dwarves e'er got ta' those in tha' Pentagon o' Tacitus was tha' crossbow yew got on yer hip,” Ronzul said, pointing to the cube on Hikan's waist. The man glanced down at the cube before looking back.

“So, I'm going to be on my own on this one?” The hunter asked. Ronzul nodded.

“Sorry, lad, it seems so,” Ronzul apologized. He looked to a clock hanging on one of the walls. “That time, eh?” He sighed. “Well, Ah gotta head ta' tha' castle. Tha' Princesses want ta' know 'bout this 'ere fort, and I gotta make sure they don' git wind o' yer illegal biz.” Ronzul put his gloves away and started to walk out.

Hikan's eyes widened at that and continued to stare at the spot the dwarf had been before the door closed and shook him out of his stupor. “W-well, I should probably get started,” he said shakily as he walked over to a furnace. His visor came into being over his eyes once more before he lifted the ring, pinched between two black-scaled fingers. He glanced at the furnace and once more at the ring before he gave a shrug and thrust the ring and his hand into the burning coals.

“You sure you're gonna be okay doin' that?” Marisa asked. Once again, the man shrugged carelessly.

“Th-There's no pain,” he answered. “Why should there be any reason to w-worry? Everything's going to be fine….”

“You don't sound very convinced to me,” Marisa said. “You sure there's no pain? You're not lyin'?”

“Y-yeah,” Hikan replied shakily, claw still sunk wrist deep into the burning embers of the furnace. “The flames aren't that b-bad. They're actually kinda comfortable….” Marisa raised an eyebrow.

“If it doesn't hurt, then everythin' should turn out just fine,” Marisa said, though she still sounded a bit sceptical. “If you're speakin' truthfully, then you need to relax. Your stutterin' is throwin' me off.”

“S-Sorry,” the man said, shaking his head before sinking the black claws deeper into the coals. “Guess… I guess I'm just not in the right mindset for reassuring people.”

“Ah, yukkuri shiteitte ne,” Marisa said. “You'll do a great job of reforgin' that ring. Have some more confidence in yourself big guy.”

Hikan was quiet for a while before he pulled Black Marlin from the furnace, lifting the white-hot metal to his visor to inspect it. “…It's not the Teigu I'm worried about,” he said quietly before turning and going to the anvil and setting the ring down on top of it before he reached into the pouch at his side and pulled out miscellaneous small tools.

“If it ain't the Teigu,” Marisa started. “Then what are you worried about?”

The hunter was once more silent as he started working on the ring with his tools. “…It's been over two years,” he said. “And yet… the princesses haven't caught onto us….”

“And how exactly does that worry you?” Marisa asked.

“Why wouldn't that worry me?” He retorted, lifting his hands for a moment. “The entire army of Equestria could come crashing down on this place and we could do nothing. Each of us could be thrown in prison… or worse.”

“Should that happen, call upon me,” came the voice of Asala from behind them, causing Marisa and Shell to jump.

Hikan glanced over his shoulder for a moment before looking back to his work. “What would that accomplish?” He asked. “You'd break us out and then what? We'd be even more guilty than when we were arrested.”

“Do you care more about being guilty, or being safe, Young Hikan?” Asala asked evenly. “Either way, I could trump your princesses, as well. I have done so in my world, even if it was not of my own volition.”

“I would rather we not put the life of the innocent in danger,” the hunter answered, his voice becoming a low growl. “Rule number one around here: everything we do, everything we sacrifice, is for the good of the people. If we went to jail and you broke us out, how many lives would that endanger?” Asala simply stared at him for a while. Then, he turned to leave.

“As you wish,” he said, walking back up the steps. As he reached the door, he finished with, “Just remember. It is either safety of self, or safety of others.” With that, he left.

Hikan was quiet for a long time before he muttered something that was only audible to him. After a few more moments, he put his tools to the side and lifted his wrist, Dorkifu's canon forming before he aimed it down in front of him, firing out a single intense laser. A moment later, the beam cut off and the canon deformed before Hikan stood up and turned back towards them, hand closed around something.

“I'll think you'll like this,” the man said, holding his hand out to Nyilla before he opened it. Black Marlin had been twisted and reformed until it formed a sort of hilt with a cage in front of it, the dragon-like decoration now facing towards the sky, mouth open as if ready to spew flames. Nyilla looked at it for a few moments, but instead of picking it up, looked at Hikan.

“…What is it, and what's it supposed to do?” she asked.

“Well,” Hikan started, giving a shrug. “It's a whip and it should allow you to increase the range at which you can attack and even interact with things.”

“I see,” Nyilla answered, looking back to the hilt, her eyes more interested than before. She then picked the Teigu up. After looking it over in her hand, she lashed out with it, and a beam of bright orange energy came forth like a whip. “Interesting…” the Fairy said as she looked at it, the energy whip hanging from the handle. She then shrugged. “I don't get how it's supposed to let me interact with things though.” As she shrugged, however, the energy mimicked her shrug, much like an arm.

Hikan smirked. “A bit like that,” he answered before he leaned back. “So, what are you going to name it?”

Nyilla thought for a moment. “I have no idea,” she finally said.

“Ooh, ooh, how about, 'Doll's Wrath: Kamshik'?” Marisa offered.

Hikan looked up a bit, nodding his head back and forth for a moment. “That has a bit of a ring to it,” he said.

“Doesn't it?” Marisa said with a big grin. “Sudden inspiration can be the best.”

“It does seem to fit…” Nyilla agreed. “Sure, let's go with Kamshik.”

Hikan nodded his head for a moment before he seemed to have a thought. “…Thank you both for this,” he said. “This has actually been very relaxing.”

“Heh, no problem,” Marisa said. “Now, I think I'll be goin'.” With that Marisa began to leave.

“Oh no you don't!” Nyilla said, using Kamshik to grab Geirskögul by the lance tip before pulling herself over to Marisa. “You're not leaving me behind.”

“Heh, my bad,” Marisa said casually. Marisa then left, a fuming Nyilla on her shoulder who was giving her a bit of an earful. Hikan smiled a bit and shook his head before he started making his way out, Shell following behind him.

The man’s grin slowly faded as they walked, though, drawing the Changeling's attention. “What's-”

“I may leave for a little while, Shell,” he answered before she could finish her question. “I… think I need some time to clear my head.” Shell slowed to a stop, still watching the man as he disappeared down the hallway and a worried look formed on her face.

Elsewhere, Cataclysm lay next to the wall of the guards' mess hall. For whatever reason, he had taken a shining to the armored guards that Ronzul's friend had provided them. Maybe it was the hubbub and energy they were always exerting. Maybe it was the shiny gold armor. Or maybe it was the food scraps they sometimes threw towards him. But, at the moment, the demon simply rested his chin on his forelegs and gently exhaled a steady stream of shadows from his nose. However, trouble was brewing for the sleeping Nil Dragon as Shanghai peeked around a nearby corner, suppressing a giggle. The mischievous Fairy was planning a prank at the expense of poor Cataclysm. Shanghai silently made her way over to her target's rear and carefully placed her hands against it, making sure not to wake the dragon. She waited a moment to make sure Cataclysm was still asleep, then finally executed her prank.

Shanghai [Perfect Freeze]

Frost formed on the demon's ass as it was rapidly chilled to a very uncomfortable temperature. The demon's eyes flew wide open, jumping to his feet, growing in size and giving out a startled hiss as he spun around and snapped his jaws together in front of the doll. Shanghai's eyes widened for a moment before she broke down into uncontrollable laughter.

“Ahahaha! That-! Th-That was-! Just so-! S-So funny-!” she managed to stutter out, clutching her stomach as she continued to laugh, having fallen onto her back on Cataclysm's back. The Nil Dragon stared at her as she laughed, ears folding back.

'What were you thinking!?' He questioned, the entire room privy to what he said now. 'I could've seriously hurt you!'

“B-But…” Shanghai began to say as her laughter died down and she wiped some tears from her eyes. “It was so funny, heehee…”

The demon was quiet for a long moment before a breath escaped him and he started to shrink back down to his normal size. 'Maybe to you,' he replied. 'But I wouldn't have found it funny if I had bitten you in half.'

“I would have been fine,” Shanghai said, still smiling widely. “After all, you can't hurt me unless you attack Alexandria. Plus, even though I wasn't trying to, I did learn something from you just now.”

The Nil Dragon still only stared at her before lowering down on his stomach again. 'Just… don't do it again.'

“Heehee! No promises!” Shanghai said before getting up and flying away.

The Nil Dragon sighed and simply closed his eyes once more. 'That Fairy…' he murmured mentally.

“Got a little freezer burn there?” a male voice said with a chuckle.

'Keep laughing, Iron Sights,' the Nil Dragon answered, lifting his head to look towards the thestral stallion. 'I still remember last week when you hopped around like the floor was on fire, just because the coffee was a little too hot.'

“H-Hey, I told you that was reflex!” Iron Sights said with embarrassment.

A humorous rumble made its way through Cataclysm's throat before he let his head rest again, the shared chuckles and laughs of the guards soothing him.

“You're leaving?!” Ayis shouted. Asala winced a little at the volume, but nodded all the same. “Why?! I still need to beat your tail from here to the Frigid Wastes!”

“And I'm still pretty bad with the bow,” Elise said. “I'd like to keep training you know.”

“You have been very helpful in getting us to where we need to be,” Shell added, her arm reaching behind her back to hold the other.

“I'm afraid I must leave. My pupils back home are… worried, we shall say,” Asala said apologetically. “I'd rather not make them worry. Much as I have grown fond of you all, this is where we must part ways. For now.”

“Alright, we understand,” Alexandria replied with a nod.

“But I wanted to kick your ass! It's so much fun fighting you!” Ayis whined. Asala chuckled.

“Apologies, Miss Filya. Much as I enjoy our bouts, this is my duty. I can't just go back on my word and leave my prized pupils to rot, after all,” Asala explained.

“But-!” Ayis began.

“We. Understand,” Alexandria interrupted, being a bit forceful with her tone. “Isn't that right Ayis?” Ayis looked to her Devoted, then sighed deeply.

“Yes, love…” she said in defeat.

“Will you at least come visit us?” Arela queried. Asala smiled and nodded.

“Of course, Miss Biore. You are all my pupils as well as good friends,” Asala affirmed.

'Perhaps next time you'll share a bit more,' Cataclysm said, giving a good humored rumble as he sat facing the alien. Asala laughed a little.

“Hmhmhm, perhaps. We'll have to see, won't we, piccolino?” Asala said, ending with a word in his native tongue.

“And maybe we can fight again! I'll keep training so I can beat you into the dirt!” Ayis cheered. Asala smiled.

“I look forward to it, Miss Filya,” Asala said warmly. He turned to Hikan, who had been silent, and extended a hand. “I trust you will remember my words, Young Hikan?”

“I remember them,” Hikan answered, taking the offered hand and shaking. “But I also remember why I started doing this in the first place.” The man took a moment to look off to the side where Gaelle and Garrick were working on the young hippogriff's homework. Asala nodded.

“Good, now, I have one final thing to give you all before I leave,” Asala said.

“What's that?” Arela queried. Asala pointed his hand to the ground, a yellow beam shooting from it, and then, eight, orange orbs with eight, purple stars in each of them appeared, all about the size of a baseball, if not a bit bigger.

“My token, one for each of you. Well, almost, but I figure Young Cat would rather I not steal all his potential chew toys.” He shot a wink to Cataclysm.

“Thanks Asala,” Marisa said. “Very thoughtful of you, 'specially considerin' Yukari disappeared with the one used to summon you originally. She probably still has it, I'll be honest.” Asala chuckled.

“Indeed,” he turned his back to them, waving goodbye as he did so. “Farewell, everyone,” he said, walking away. Then, he stopped, realizing something. “…I forgot that none of you were the ones who summoned me.”

“Can you not go back without needing the person who summoned you here?” Daiyousei asked.

“Not always, no. It's either random, or caused by the summoner saying a certain phrase,” Asala explained. “Is there any way to contact the woman who summoned me?”

“Yukari?” Marisa replied. “Yeeeeeaaaaaahhhhhhh… Good luck gettin' ahold of her… 'Cause you probably won't be able to…” Asala sighed.

“Well, I suppose I shall be staying after-” he began, until a black portal appeared under his feet and swallowed him up, closing quickly. The group was silent for several moments.

“…Well, he did say it could happen randomly…” Alexandria said.

Starlight blinked at where the portal had disappeared. “Well…” she said quietly, giving a little sigh. “Let's hope he gets home safe.”

“I hope so,” Arela agreed.

“Yeah, would kinda suck for my favorite sparring partner to just up and die,” Ayis concurred. Everyone looked to her. “What?” Alexandria smiled as she shook her head.

“Just…” she started. “…Never mind.”

Hikan chuckled at the group before his smile faded a bit before he looked towards the armory for a minute. After a moment, he let out a sigh. “Well, with our sensei gone, it's up to us to keep up our training until something comes up again.”

“Exactly what I was thinking,” Alexandria agreed. “We never know when we'll get our next lead, so we need to make absolutely sure that we remain diligent.”

“Well, we have new abilities, so as long as we keep up with the regimen he left us, we should get stronger, right? I mean, he did say that with ki, there's seemingly no limit to power,” Ayis pointed out.

“That does seem to be the goal,” Starlight said, flexing her wrist a bit. “Next time, the Circle won't know what hit them.”

“I can get behind that,” Arela agreed.

“This ki stuff is kinda like magic,” Marisa noted. “It shouldn't be too hard for me to get the hang of it. On top of all my usual magic, it'll probably make me strong enough to just bust up one of those Circle places on my own. That'd be fun.”

“Heck yeah sister!” Ayis agreed, offering a fist for Marisa to bump. Marisa didn't hesitate to follow through, a big-ass grin on her face.

“Careful, girls,” Hikan said with a little chuckle. “Remember, we're not the only ones that have taken time to improve. And there's still tons of Teigu out there, so we still need to be careful.”

“Ah, you're such a party pooper,” Marisa said with a frown, hands on her hips. “Besides, I'd be just fine now that I've got Geirskögul.”

“Just-” Hikan paused as he raised a hand, taking a moment to let out a breath. “Just don't let your guard down and… be careful….”

“Yeah sure,” Marisa answered dismissively. Hikan shot her a look before he gave a little sigh and began to walk back towards the living area.

“I'm going to rest for a bit,” he said over his shoulder as he walked. “Let me know if anything comes up.” Arela frowned, and looked to Starlight, as if asking her something, the unicorn only giving a small shrug in response. Arela sighed, walking after her lover, but not before sending a final look to Starlight. After that, she came up next to him, following him inside the fort.

Ayis turned to Alexandria. “Well, we need to check on Yis, right babe?”

“Yes, wouldn't want her getting into any trouble,” Alexandria answered, following Ayis towards Yis' room.

Once there, they found the young angel giggling happily as she hung onto a chandelier, chewing on one of the lights.

“Yis! Get down from there!” Ayis cried.

“Can't take our eyes off her for one minute without her making trouble…” Alexandria muttered, putting her hand on her face before flying to the ceiling to get the mischief-making child. The child resisted, however, hanging on tightly to the chandelier, starting to throw a tantrum for being denied her new chewtoy. “No,” Alexandria said firmly as she descended back to the floor. “Being all the way up there is too dangerous for you Vyala.” The young angel whined and whined, until Ayis came up and took her from Alexandria, and she calmed down, burying her head into her mother's bosom. Ayis gave a sigh at this.

“Seems she still sees you as the bad cop,” Ayis said a little sadly. Alexandria nodded.

“I know,” she answered. “She's just too young to understand that I'm always so stern with her to keep her from hurting herself.” Alexandria shook her head with a small frown. “I'm tempted to just leave her be the next time, then maybe she'll learn her lesson when she goes and does get herself hurt…”

“It is tempting, but let's leave that for when it's more trivial. I mean, if she had fallen from up there, she'd have gotten more than just a bruise,” Ayis replied. “Seriously, the ceilings are like, sixteen or eighteen feet above us in every room.”

Alexandria sighed. “Yeah, but the problem is, it's almost never trivial with Vyala,” she retorted. “She's always been putting herself into all kinds of serious danger. I remember the last time; she found a damned lighter lying around. She was about to scorch her tongue from chewing on it when we came to check on her just in the nick of time.”

Ayis winced at the memory. “Yeeeah… I see your point,” she said, looking down at her daughter. Said daughter had apparently fallen asleep in her arms, making the mother smile a little. “Well, maybe we should take a note from what sensei taught us?” Ayis proposed. “Remember? Back when he first came here and she first met him?”

“Yeah,” Alexandria answered with a nod. “Next time we'll 'take it further'.” Ayis smiled, walking over and kissing Alexandria on the lips briefly.

“We'll get through it no problem, too,” she said with a grin.

“I have no doubts about that,” Alexandria responded, returning the grin. “The only thing I'm really worried about is that Vyala will still be a little troublemaker when she grows up.”

“Yeah, don't want her turning out like me in that respect,” Ayis concurred. She looked to the crib they had been given for the young angel, and walked over to it, placing her inside it. Only for her to whimper and thrash a little in response. “Crap, she's having a night terror…” Alexandria came over and gently picked the child up, shushing her quietly.

“Ssssshhhhh, everything's okay…” she whispered to Yis, beginning to rock her slowly and gently. To their surprise, Yis started to actually calm down, something she'd not done with Alexandria since her birth. Alexandria smiled, continuing to gently rock the baby angel.

“That's amazing! She actually calmed down with you!” Ayis cheered quietly, pumping a fist as her wings flapped in tandem with the motion.

“I know,” Alexandria whispered back, barely audible so as not to wake the child. “I'm… afraid to put her back. I don't want to accidentally disturb her rest. If it's okay with you, I'd like to sit in the chair here and just let her sleep in my arms.” Ayis smiled radiantly at her lover.

“That's fine, babe. Just be mindful of her horn,” Ayis replied. Alexandria nodded before carefully making her way over to the chair in the room and sitting down in it. Yis was still sleeping soundly in her arms. Alexandria sat there quietly, watching the baby sleep. After a few minutes of tranquil silence, she felt her eyelids grow heavy. Before long, she herself fell asleep, lulled by Yis' quiet, steady breathing.

Ayis smiled warmly, walking over and moving a stray strand of hair from Alexandria's face. She then kissed her forehead, and quickly rushed over to a drawer to find a certain device. After some rummaging, she found it, and took out a camera. She had been given a rundown of how it worked from Starlight, and snapped a picture of her lover and their child. With glee, she took out the photo and stowed it away in her pocket.

“Totally saving this for later,” she said, before going over to the couch and taking its blanket, then walking to her family and wrapping it snugly around them. With that, she laid down on the couch and fell asleep herself.

Later that same day, it was discovered that the food stores were running low. Alexandria ended up being nominated to get food. She stepped out through the large front doors and began making her way across the lot towards the sidewalk. She barely made it halfway, however, before, without warning, shackles suddenly appeared on her wrists and ankles, her feet immobilized, and a chain connecting the wrists together behind her back, which quickly shortened to immobilize her arms as well. She made to shout, but a hand clapped over her mouth before she could make a peep.

“Shush,” came a woman's voice from behind her. “I just want you to do something for me. It will only take a minute, and as long as you listen to me, I will let you go alive. Understand?”

Alexandria didn't move a muscle. The woman sighed, taking her hand away from Alexandria's mouth. Shanghai is connected to me, Alexandria thought to herself. If I focus enough, maybe I can relay to her that I'm in trouble…

Meanwhile, the woman made her way in front of Alexandria. Alexandria's eyes widened when she recognized the woman as being the one that had been in the secret Circle drug ring they'd hit a little while back. She remembered seeing her flee when they started their attack. This woman was surely a Gensokian, though not one Alexandria knew.

The woman had long, pure white hair that was done up in a braided ponytail, held together at the end with a blue strip of fabric that was made into a small loop. She also had sky blue eyes and she was wearing a dress that was blue and red, the colors separated into quadrants. The entire dress had constellation designs on it, and she wore what appeared to be a blue nurse cap with a red plus symbol on the front and more constellation designs, and on her feet she had some simple, black shoes. She was holding a small vial with a shimmering golden liquid inside.

“All I want for you to do is drink the contents of this vial,” the woman explained, holding the vial forward. “Do so, and you will be free to go.”

“What makes you think I'd willingly drink some dubious substance?” Alexandria challenged. The woman closed her eyes and shook her head.

“I thought it would come to this…” she said. “Reisen!”

“Yes, Lady Yagokoro,” Suddenly, another person came around to Alexandria's side. This other girl had pale purple hair that reached almost down to her ankles, and red eyes. She wore a black jacket over a white shirt and a red tie, and a white skirt. She had brown shoes with rolled-down, white socks and… what seemed to be slightly crumpled, white rabbit ears on her head.

Reisen made a finger gun with her right hand. Seeing Alexandria's unimpressed expression, she pointed it right next to Alexandria's foot and put her thumb down. There was the sound of a gunshot, and a very real bullet mark in the dirt. Reisen then pointed the finger gun at Alexandria's heart.

“You have five seconds to drink this before you are shot through the heart,” the woman Reisen referred to as Yagokoro said, holding out the vial again. Alexandria realized that her hands were free again, though she knew that if she tried anything, Reisen would shoot her dead in an instant.

“Five.”

Alexandria looked at the vial, still a little hesitant to drink an unknown liquid.

“Four.”

She closed her eyes tightly, conflicted.

“Three.”

She grabbed the vial, and inspected the contents more closely.

“Two.”

The liquid was completely opaque, and resembled gold in color, shimmering in the light.

“One.”

Alexandria sighed, gripped the vial, closed her eyes and threw back her head, downing the golden liquid in one go. It had… A strange taste that was some combination of sweet, salty, tart, and bitter, and it was surprisingly viscous but slippery, going down her throat with ease. The odd taste caused her to drop the vial, which shattered on the ground.

“Alex!” The shout rang through the courtyard as the doors to the base flew open, Hikan racing out with his claws glinting in the sunlight as Starlight came flying out to hover behind him, Cataclysm coming to a rumbling halt beside them, his size increased even more than it had been in the drug ring hideout. Marisa and Daiyousei were with them too, Marisa wielding Geirskögul, and Arela was beside Hikan, halberd at the ready. Ayis was right behind Shanghai, who was at the front of the group, worry etched on her features until she noticed the two suspicious people near her Devoted, one she recognized as being from the Circle drug ring.

“Alex!” she cried.

“Zero,” Yagokoro said, finishing the countdown despite the fact that Alexandria had done what she wanted. Before anyone could do anything, Reisen put her thumb down, and a gunshot rang out again, putting a hole straight into Alexandria's heart. Time seemed to slow down as everyone looked on in horror as Alexandria fell forward towards the ground, unmistakably dead. At the same time, Shanghai's eyes had widened, her breath having caught in her throat. She fell towards the ground, beginning to glow, before halfway down she exploded into a cloud of small sparks.

Dust kicked off the ground from where Hikan had been as his form disappeared… but not his killing intent as the pressure seemed to crush down on the area. The man reappeared in front of Reisen, claws already poised to plunge into her eyes as his own glowed in burning orange.

Just before Hikan went to strike, however, the sound of arcing electricity building up started from behind him. He quickly turned around to see electricity overflowing from Alexandria's body, arcing from it to nearby ground, and after another moment, there was an electrical discharge. Immediately after that, the cloud of sparks that came from Shanghai - which if anyone had looked, they'd have noticed that it hadn't dispersed - began to concentrate back together before another, much smaller, discharge brought the Fairy back into existence. After that, Alexandria pushed herself up to her hands and knees, bringing one hand up to her chest where her heart was situated, finding a severe lack of a bullet hole.

Hikan skid across the dirt, wings flaring as his claws dug into the ground, bringing him to a grinding halt. “...Alex?” He questioned. “But how…?”

“Excellent,” Yagokoro said. “I have not lost my touch for making the Hourai Elixir.”

“The 'Hourai Elixir'?” Alexandria repeated as she got to her feet. “Is that what you forced me to drink?”

“Yes,” Yagokoro answered. “It is an elixir that grants the consumer absolute immortality. I simply needed a test subject to make sure I had made it correctly.”

“You were testing it!?” Ayis exclaimed. “Meaning it might not have worked, and my Devoted could be dead right now!? Damn you, you're not getting away with that!”

“Sorry, but I'm a busy woman,” Yagokoro said. “Reisen, if you will?”

With Yagokoro's prompt, Reisen moved, and put her index finger to the side of her own head. Suddenly, everyone felt light-headed and out of breath. Their vision blurred before they all fainted.

Alexandria was the first to regain consciousness. She looked around. Yagokoro and Reisen were both gone. Slowly, Hikan and Cataclysm began to stir, the Nil Dragon shaking his head with a disgruntled growl. Ayis shot up next, a flurry of blood red thorns following her as she jumped up, ready to fight and tear limbs, before noticing that the two women were gone.

“Dammit… Dammit dammit dammit vayl utu hi grend!” Ayis roared, thorns writhing around her wildly as her anger surged.

“Ayis!” Alexandria said, quickly making her way over to Ayis. “Ayis, calm down, please!” Ayis rounded on her, then faltered as she saw her Devoted there instead of an enemy. The thorns withered away and Ayis tackled her Devoted to the ground, her wings wrapped around her tightly along with her arms.

“Thank Triyte you're okay… I swear to the Gods that if that jeler had killed you…” Ayis growled.

“It's okay,” Alexandria said comfortingly. “I'm not dead.” Alexandria paused for several moments. “And… I don't think I ever will be.” Ayis paused.

“…What do you mean?” she asked after a few seconds of thought.

“You heard what that woman said, right?” Alexandria asked. “About the Hourai Elixir?” Ayis shook her head.

“I was too focused on rending her in two, healing her, then doing it again and again,” Ayis said honestly. Alexandria sighed, shaking her head slightly.

“Well, the Hourai Elixir apparently grants whoever drinks it absolute immortality,” Alexandria said, repeating the woman's explanation. “And just before you guys showed up, she forced me to drink some. Considering that I got shot through the heart and most definitely died from it, but am alive, speaking to you now, the Elixir works. I'm pretty sure I'll just keep coming back if I die.” Ayis blinked a number of times.

“I’m not sure whether to be overjoyed that I will no longer outlive you, or still be angry for that jeler killing you,” Ayis said. “…I think I'll just settle for not letting go of you at all tonight, and actively hunting down those two yilps whenever I have the time.”

“Uh-huh,” Alexandria responded. “You know, it makes me feel kind of sad, and a little strange, knowing that now I'm guaranteed to outlive you.” Ayis smiled softly at her Devoted and kissed her.

“Well, think of it this way. If I do die, you can visit me anytime at Triyte's Bulwark,” Ayis said.

“That does bring me some comfort,” Alexandria said, giving a small smile of her own.

“But man, you're gonna be livin' forever, just like poor Mokou,” came Marisa's voice. The two turned to see that everyone else had woken up while they were speaking with each other.

“Doesn't sound that bad,” Hikan groaned as he helped Shell to her feet where she had dropped behind the two women.

“It is lonely beyond compare, if how my lord is is any indication,” Arela commented as she stood up, helping Starlight up as well. Marisa nodded.

“Mokou'd agree with you there,” she concurred.

“My master used to say that he thought the same once, until his master quoted one of his famous poems,” Ayis added.

“What's the quote?” Daiyousei asked.

“'Mortal lives are fleeting, and most do not see the wisdom and beauty of life to its fullest. Immortals have all the time in the world to gaze upon the bare face of life, and say that they still have more to see,'” Ayis recited. “Master Hyl drilled that into my head pretty early on, since I had had my own times with mortal races.”

“I wonder what Mokou'd think if you told her that,” Marisa commented.

“You'd probably have to ask her,” Starlight muttered, leaning heavily on Arela as she rubbed her head.

“Regardless, those were some insightful words,” Alexandria said. “I'll be sure to remember them. Anyways, you should probably head back inside instead of standing out here. I've still got to go get the food.” Ayis didn't move from her position on top of Alexandria.

“I think she wants to stay with you,” Arela said with a small smile. Ayis nodded, hugging her Devoted tighter to herself. Alexandria smiled, shaking her head.

“Alright, you can come too,” she said. “Either way, I've got to get the food.”

“Don't worry about it, Alex,” Hikan said, he and Shell finally recovering enough to stand straight. “I'll go for you. I think you deserve that at least.” Alexandria looked at him for a moment.

“…Alright,” she said. “Thanks.” She then stood up, Ayis still clinging to her. She paused for a few more seconds. “…Don't die on us,” she added in a joking tone of voice and a grin. Ayis giggled, kissing her on the cheek.

“Don't worry,” Hikan answered, his voice dangerously low in comparison to the Yokai's light tone. “We won't.” With that, he turned and nodded his head to Shell, the changeling bathing in green fire before she was disguised as the pair walked out onto the sidewalk.

“I think he needs to lighten up a little sometimes,” Alexandria commented as she made her way inside, basically dragging Ayis along as she entered with the others, though Cataclysm stayed behind. The Nil Dragon shrank down to his normal size before he padded up to Shanghai.

Are you alright, little one? He questioned, worry etched into his mental voice as he gently nosed her.

“Yeah, I'm okay,” Shanghai answered. “But it did feel kind of weird when the one rabbit girl did something to Alexandria.” The demon looked at the little Fairy for a long moment before he suddenly stood up on his rear legs and wrapped her in a hug.

...You died, Shanghai…. This time Cataclysm's voice shook, a low rumble making his body shiver.

“…Died?” Shanghai repeated. “So… That means Alexandria died, and… That weird feeling… Is how it feels to die?”

The Nil Dragon could only nod his head in response, holding her a bit tighter as mist started to form in his eyes and he squeezed them shut.

Shanghai was quiet for a little while. “…But, both me and Alexandria are alive now even though we died,” she said. “Does that mean that I won't die if Alexandria dies anymore?”

...I don't know… he answered gently. I just don't know….

Shanghai gave Cataclysm a look. “Are you okay?” she asked. “You're acting kind of weird.”

A low rumble echoed through the demon's chest in response, a warm, comforting rumble that resonated through the Fairy's body. ...I will be… he said quietly. ...Do you remember what I told you in the cafeteria…?

“Ummm…” Shanghai hummed in thought. “…Which part?”

The part where I said it wouldn't have been funny if I had bitten you… the Nil Dragon answered gently.

“I remember it,” Shanghai said. “Why?”

...Do you know why I said it…?

“No,” Shanghai responded simply, shaking her head. Cataclysm slowly let go of the Fairy, backing away so she could see his face.

Because I can't stand to see you hurt, he said quietly.

“But…” Shanghai started. “Even if you did bite me back then, it wouldn't have hurt. You can only hurt me through Alexandria.”

The Nil Dragon looked the Fairy up and down for a moment before a small sigh escaped him. I don't want to see you hurt, he elaborated, pushing his nose into her gently.

Shanghai put her hand to her bottom lip, a thoughtful expression on her face. “Why not?” she asked.

Cataclysm pulled back once more to look back at her. Because… we're a family, he said. And family looks out for each other.

“'Family'…” Shanghai repeated. “Then… I'll be looking out for you too!” With that cheerful statement, Shanghai then went inside, leaving the demon as the last one outside.

Cataclysm watched the Fairy return inside, waiting for her to disappear from sight before the feathers around his neck rose aggressively, a low growl rumbling from him as he dropped back down onto his front legs and walked to the spot where Yagokoro and Reisen had been standing. He lowered his snout to the ground and inhaled deeply through his nose, opening his mouth slightly to let the taste of the scent sink into his memory. He lifted his head and seemed to glare at thin air for a moment before he finally turned and made his way back inside the complex.

Elise was in the small library in the fort, looking for any interesting books. She'd been told about Alexandria being in trouble earlier, just like everyone else, but unlike the others, she hadn't gone to help.

She heard the door to the library open as Arela entered, who noticed her. “Elise? Why are you in the library? Didn't you hear Shanghai?” Elise turned only just enough to look out the corner of her eye at Arela. After a few moments, she turned back to the bookshelf, shrugging.

“It's not my problem,” she said simply. “And what's it matter to you why I'm in here?” Arela frowned, walking up to Elise and stopping next to her.

“It matters because a member of our team died,” Arela explained. Elise was silent for several moments before sighing.

“I gotta admit that that really sucks,” she replied. “Not that I'd have been able to change that if I was there anyway.” Arela's frown deepened.

“You know, none of us may know you that well, but you could at least try and be more open,” Arela said.

“I don't see why I should,” Elise answered. “I'm being given a room here, and in return, all I've gotta do is give support when you guys make one of your attacks, that's it really.”

“Would you rather not have us supporting you when you are in trouble, or in times of sorrow?” Arela countered with a raised brow. “You have no one left around here but us.”

Elise froze at this, and was silent for several moments. “W-Well…” she stuttered, struggling to come up with an argument. Arela's look softened and she walked over to Elise, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“All I'm offering is friendship. All any of us are offering is friendship. In this world, at these times, would it not be better to have people to fall back on?” Arela asked. Elise was silent again as she tried to hide her troubled expression from Arela by looking away. Just as Arela thought that Elise wouldn't answer, Elise spoke.

“I…” she started hesitantly. “…guess so…” Elise finished, a bit quiet, still refusing to look at Arela. Arela smiled lightly, patting Elise's shoulder.

“Take some time to yourself to figure this out. I won't push you on this, I'm only… Making sure you know your options.” With that, Arela turned to leave, walking towards the door.

“Wait--!” Elise called out to her suddenly. As Arela turned back to look at Elise quizzically, Elise had turned to face her, but was still looking off to the side, avoiding eye contact. “I'll… consider the offer… I guess…” Arela's smile grew and she nodded to her.

“That's all I ask,” she said before walking out the door.

Chapter 15

Night still hung heavy over the streets of Canterlot, the base that Night Raid had called home for years quiet as those within slept soundly… all but one. Hikan made his way through the building, never making a sound as he used every ounce of his assassination skills to sneak up on the door that formed the only entrance or exit to the building. A bag hung from his shoulder as he opened the door. The young man took one last glance behind him at the interior of the team’s, no, of his home. Breaking his oldest code, he let out a single breath before he slipped out of the doors….

It was a completely normal morning for the team. Alexandria and Ayis were attempting to eat their breakfast while simultaneously keeping Yis from taking the food and playing with it, and Marisa was seated nearby, eating her own food with a grin plastered across her face as she watched the shenanigans unfold, but making no move to help. Daiyousei was seated next to Marisa, but didn’t have any food, since she didn’t need to eat. Cataclysm was asleep in the corner of the mess hall, Shanghai and Nyilla both nearby to him, likely trying to come up with their next prank. Ronzul was happily eating chalk, and Elise was sitting with a bit of distance between her and everyone else as she read a book that had piqued her interest, slowly eating her own food.

Eventually, Starlight wandered into the mess hall, letting out a yawn as she crossed the mess hall into the kitchen. Without a single word, she made her way to the coffee pot and started making up her mug. After a moment, she turned and leaned against the counter, facing the others as she took a drink and let out a sigh of relief. “Morning, everyone,” she finally said, the cup held in her two hands as the liquid within steamed. Elise ignored the greeting, but by now the team had come to expect her prickly attitude.

“Good-” Alexandria started, turning to look at Starlight before Yis took a handful of food from her plate, cutting the Yokai off as she turned back to try and - somewhat gently - wrestle the stolen food back from the child.

“Mornin’,” Marisa greeted without looking away from the struggle between child and Yokai.

“Good morning…” Daiyousei chimed in with her typical timid tone.

Yis eventually let go of the food, pouting adorably. Ayis smiled at this, glad her child was being more behaved, before turning to Starlight.

“Morning, Starlight,” she said with a smile. Alexandria sighed in relief, returning the badly mottled food to her plate before turning to Starlight again.

“Good morning,” she said to her in a somewhat tired voice.

The unicorn gave a small smile. “Another restless morning?” She questioned the couple, a quiet bit of humor in her voice. Alexandria simply nodded. It was fairly clear that raising Yis was tiring for her.

“I feel fine, to be honest,” Ayis said truthfully.

“I feel like that has something to do with her being blood-related to you,” Alexandria responded, returning to her breakfast.

Ayis shrugged. “Probably. But I don’t really know, nor do I have anyone to ask for confirmation.”

“Well, whatever the case, all I know is that it’s tiring for me,” Alexandria commented.

“Well, we did also scr-” Ayis started.

“Please don’t just blurt that,” Alexandria interrupted quickly. Ayis shrugged again.

“Eh, fine. Just trying to list all the factors,” she informed. Alexandria just continued to eat her breakfast in silence. Ayis did much the same.

Starlight continued to smile at the group’s antics as she took another sip of her morning elixir before she took notice of something. “Hey, guys,” she said, drawing their attention. “Has anyone seen Hikan or Arela?”

“I remember seeing Arela zooming through the hallways,” Ayis informed.

Ronzul took a big bite of his chalk, letting out a burp before answering with, “‘Scuse me. Ah saw th’ girl tear ‘er way ‘round th’ library, but tha’s it.” Elise finally spoke up in response to this, though she still didn’t take her eyes off the book in her hands.

“Yeah, that definitely gave me a start,” she added. “I considered asking her what was wrong, but she rushed back out before I had the chance.”

“Doesn’t that seem kinda… I’unno, suspicious?” Marisa asked.

“Eh, High Angel’s are just high strung, nothing to worry about if they suddenly start zooming around looking for something,” Ayis said, shrugging once more.

And then a flurry of golden feathers rushed into the room, and revealed Arela in only her nightgown, eyes wide with worry.

“Where is he?! Where is my lover?!” she screeched. She rushed over to Starlight, grabbing her by the shoulders. “Starlight! Have you seen him?!”

The pale unicorn choked up on her coffee as the angel came running in. “N-GAK! N-no!” Starlight gurgled out, bringing her arm over her mouth. “W-cough-Why?” Arela released the mare, hands now on her head, running through her hair and messing up it’s once pristine shape.

“Oooh! I knew I should have done the ritual! Now he’s gone!” Arela said with increasing worry. Alexandria looked up from her breakfast, suddenly seeming much more alert.

“…Gone?” she asks.

“Yes! I woke up and he wasn’t in the bed like usual! Nor was he in the bathroom, the basement, the battlements, the roof, the library, or anywhere else!” Arela explained, hair frayed.

“Somethin’ tells me he’s gone and flown the coop,” Marisa speculated. “Probably snuck out in the night.”

“But why?! Am I unsatisfactory? Does he not love me? What did I do?!” Arela said, continuing to panic. Starlight stared at the angel for a moment before walking up to her, setting her coffee on the counter.

Without a single moment of hesitation, she wrapped the angel in a hug. “We both know it’s not your fault…,” she said quietly. “If it’s anyone’s fault… it’s mine….”

“What…? What do you mean?” Arela asked, tears threatening to fall.

The unicorn sniffed and pulled back a little to wipe at her eyes. “Hikan’s not stupid…” she answered softly, eyes on the floor. “Ever since we… since he got us out of that cave in…. I was so close to talking to him when we met you and… I was so cold t-to both of you and-and-”

“‘Tain’t that, lassies,” Ronzul said, taking another bite of chalk. “Lionelle be missing, so Ah’d bet he went off ta fix it. Lad was talkin’ ‘bout it ta ‘imself a few days ago, didn’t notice Ah was nearby.” He took another bite with a loud crunch. “Was wondering when he’d do it, though Ah didn’t expect ‘im to go alone.”

“Isn’t that extremely dangerous?” Elise abruptly piped up, closing the book she was reading and turning to look at Ronzul with a shocked expression. Ronzul shrugged.

“Well, ain’t like Ah knew when he’d do it so Ah could stop ‘im,” Ronzul explained. He finished his chalk with a final crunch before getting out of his chair. “Either way, yer right, lass. We best head out ta git ‘im.”

“...No….” Starlight’s single word rang through the air as she stared at the ground.

“Ah’m sorry lass, what was that? Sounded like ya said no,” Ronzul said, narrowing his eyes at her.

“I said no,” Starlight answered, reaching out and grabbing Arela’s wrist. “We’ll go after him….”

“I really think it would be a better idea to do it as a team to offer more safety,” Alexandria argued, standing up.

“Agreed. Hikan has a bit of a bad habit for being a magnet for trouble,” Ayis concurred, standing up as well, taking Yis in her arms and swaddling her.

Starlight shook her head as she kept looking to the ground. “Please…” she said in a silent voice. “Just this once… I-I don’t know why… but this time I feel like this is something we need to do….” A single tear dropped to the floor as she spoke, her unoccupied hand curling up on itself.

“Starlight, you’re being unrea-” Alexandria started to object firmly.

“Stop.”

This interruption caught Alexandria off-guard as she turned to look at Elise, who had stood up. “Just stop,” Elise said. “If she wants to be all emotional and unreasonable about this, then let her. Either she’ll learn her lesson the hard way and come crawling back to us begging for help, or she’ll surprise us all and pull this off. The way I see it, it’s a win-win.”

“That’s… A bit harsh, lass,” Ronzul noted.

“But true…” Shell said, suddenly appearing in the doorway, holding an arm to her side. “And… Starlight’s right. Hikan, Arela, and Starlight need to do this, no interruptions or distractions…. I’ve seen the tangled up emotions surrounding them and… if it doesn’t happen now it may just… strangle them….” Ayis looked to Shell, and Ronzul did much the same, both looking at her with mild surprise, before sighing.

“Alright, lass,” Ronzul conceded.

“Fine. But I’m kicking your asses if you don’t come back safe,” Ayis acquiesced.

“I’ll be similarly upset if we end up having to come and save you three from trouble,” Alexandria added. The shorter mare gave a small nod before she finally looked up, turning her gaze to Arela. Despite there being tears in her eyes, there was a resolute look in those orbs. That was all Starlight needed for confirmation.

The unicorn gave a small nod before she started to make her way out of the room. “We’ll leave as soon as we’re ready,” she said, her tone rising in conviction with each step. “Then we can get to work tracking him down.”

“He’s in the dessert.” Cataclysm’s sudden words made the mare stop on the spot and look back at him with wide eyes. “I saw him leave the compound last night and watched him go until I lost sight of his lifeforce. Judging by his trajectory and direction of travel, he’s probably already got sand in his boots.”

“I’ll go get ready, meet me outside in ten,” Arela said, wiping her tears away. She then flew out of the room.

Starlight turned to watch her go before she turned an angry look on the Doom Dragon. “You couldn’t say something before!?” She asked angrily, the demon looking up slightly at that.

“No. This was a conclusion you and Arela had to reach on your own. No more dancing around the subject and this way you couldn’t ignore it anymore.” The mare stared at him for a long moment before she simply sighed and left the room. Cat closed his eyes and laid his head back down as if nothing had ever happened. Ronzul sighed, Ayis grunting as she sat back down, Yis in her arms still, who was nuzzling her mother.

“Well, I guess we’re going to be here for a good while, left to worry about those three until who knows when,” Alexandria said.

“Aaaah, no use worryin’ too much about it,” Marisa commented, still as relaxed as always.

This is the last me and the team wrote for Kill the Memory and Daughter of Terra. If it wasn't already obvious in my sections of writing, by this point it had become a chore to write this story. Every plot point I had thrown out the window, every decision a fight. It may be selfish to think this way but... when you want to tell a story and have so many ideas, only to have to throw them away to accommodate other writers... it becomes taxing....

Anyway, there is a point to all this. Lately, I've realized that I am way too nice when collaborating. People pulling things off that they shouldn't be able to do, changing and twisting and perverting some of the things I've written. I hate to say, but I am far too selfish with my characters and my stories for things like this to just slide. I have legitimately spent entire days sitting at my desk doing research and doing the math and creating entire magic-systems to the point that I've spent more time prepping stories than I have writing them.

Long story short, I put way too much effort in these stories for anyone to come in and just shatter it all. Therefore, from here on out, I'm going to be a little more picky with stories and authors I do crossovers with and if something comes up during the cross I don't like, I will speak up. I don't want to be that guy... but I have to protect the things I love, and these stories are filled to the brim with all the emotion I can muster anymore.

Thank you guys for reading. Perhaps, someday, Hikan will make a return to my stories and page, but, for now, it's time to say goodbye. If you have anything you want to say, have a joke you want to leave, or a criticism you want to point out, leave it in the comments below. I hope you guys all have a great one and I'll see you in the next one....

Prologue

Anime Con was more than anyone could have bargained for. The people were cheerful, the sights were colorful, and the souvenirs were top tier. Too bad four of the convention's attendees were all but dead broke.

“Damn it!” Jeremy muttered as he and his friends, John, Itachi, and Clayton, passed by another booth. “All this good loot and we have to pass it up….” Jeremy was dressed in combat boots, army green cargo pants, a tight fitting, sleeveless black shirt, and long, fur lined hunter’s coat. A pair of custom made bracers sat on his wrists while a secured survival knife and tristaff sat on his belt, covered by the coat.

“Dammit Jeremy, We already got here which is cool enough,” Clayton said, a bit annoyed as he stood there with his arms crossed. “I really don’t think we need more shit...not like you guys need it or anything…” He added before he sighed. Now, unlike his friends, Claytone wasn’t into dressing up or anything like that, not that he was against it or anything. He simply wore a tan shirt and some jeans, which he regretted as his shirt was soaked with his sweat from a combination of not only the fact that he’d never been in America before, but also because it was summer and the inside of the building was...Hot. As. Balls!

“You say that, but my costume is incomplete: I'm still missing the horns,” was John’s response. For weeks before the convention, John had been letting his hair grow out so that he could pull off this cosplay as perfectly as possible. He had a purple contact in his left eye, and a crimson contact in his right eye. He was wearing a white dress with a blue, stylized electricity pattern all over the skirt, and had a custom ribbon (made by sewing the end of a blue one to the end of a red one) wrapped around the waist and tied in a bow on his back. In the pocket of the dress, he had a small doll with long blonde hair, blue eyes and a black dress with white frills on the hem and a white apron-like piece of fabric attached to the front. Finally, on his feet he wore some Geta, one with a red strap, the other with a blue strap. With his hair down to his shoulders, his tall, slim physique, his surprisingly high pitched voice (for a male) and the outfit he was wearing, it's no surprise that most of the people at the convention mistook him for a girl.

“You think missing such a small detail is so bad, try missing an essential thing like the plate with the scratched through village insignia that identifies my character as a Missing-nin from Kirigakure!” The last of the four said, before proceeding to curse his luck in words his friends did not understand. “Dare ga kiri no naka ni kakusa reta mura no kishō nashide watashi ga kakurete iru mura no dore o shitte iru to omowa reru nodesu ka?”

“Yes James we know you can speak Japanese, it’s a very good life skill to have..” Clayton sighed as he looked at his friend. “...In like...one of the places that doesn’t speak English at all..” he added sarcastically.

“I'm sorry if my family speaks my mother's language at home, you know she can't speak English!” He said to his French friend. “And for the last time, when not at home or with Hahaoya no family you can call me by my given name not my father's family name.”

“And I’m sorry if I don’t see the point in trying to find stuff for our made up characters that are not even remotely a part of the shows they’re suppose to be from,” Clayton said with a frown, his patience dying. “...Sorry..”

“At least we’re all missing something generic,” Jeremy said. “Horns, a headband, some contacts and… what was it you needed Clay?”

“A Cowboy hat…” Clayton said quickly. “Doesn’t matter the colour.”

“It is more than a headband, it is what identifies my character as a Shinobi in the first place! Watashi no seikaku ni wa fukaketsudesu!” He gestured to the place on his hood where his left eye was hidden, anger clearly visible, even through the light grey contact he wore on his right and the cloth mask over his nose and mouth. On his back the Wakizashi he was wearing clanked in its sheath and the fang shaped dagger sheathed on the right side of his abdomen shook, the tiny vial of liquid in the hilt sloshed the stand in snake venom as it moved. The false Kunai on his right leg and foam Shuriken in the pouch on the left side of the belt around his waist and Tanto on the back of it staying relatively still as the leather boots he had on showing the wear of actual use.

“Oh...another bunch of lonesome wanderers lost in clouds of greed…” A voice said with a tone of amusement from the right of the group. “I think I have just what you’re looking for, cool cats...” This caused Clayton to snap his head in the direction of the voice, revealing a man clad in a robe of fur, the robe being so thick that it hid not only his build, but also his face.

John turned to look at the person who spoke. When he noticed what they were wearing, his eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Aren't you hot in that coat?” he asked, the surprise in his voice painfully obvious. “It’s the middle of Summer!”

“More importantly, Anatahadare?” Itachi asked.

“Oh..I can assure you sir,” The man started, looking over at John as if he didn’t need any help to know he was talking to a guy. “I am rather cold..and to answer your question, I’m a..” he then throws off his coat to reveal a man with blue skin and tight looking clothes, a yellow hat on his head. “MAGIC...MANNNN!”

After a few moments of stunned silence, John regained his composure somewhat. “Well, it would take some kind of magic to tell I’m a guy through such a perfect cosplay, I guess,” he said, not realizing he was speaking his thoughts due to the lingering shock, “but you said something about having what we're looking for? What do you mean by that?”

“Yeah Papa Smurf, what’d ya got?” Clayton asked, very impressed with the man’s costume as he was a big fan of Adventure Time. “Got a cowboy hat?”

“Why, of course!” Magic Man said with a smile as he unrolled a bundle of fabric to reveal the exact items they were all looking for. “How much are you willing to pay?”

“Wait, that's right. We’re flat broke,” John said, suddenly remembering the argument a minute ago due to all the stalls that they had passed from their lack of funds.

Itachi reached into one of the pouches on his costume and pulled out his wallet, “It may not be as much as it is worth, but would 50,000¥ be acceptable. I only have Yen left.”

Magic Man took the wallet and inspected the money. “My...My...using all of your money for a chance to play dress up more...It is acceptable..” He said, tossing the wallet back, the money being gone even though none of them saw him take anything.

Itachi reached out and grabbed the symbol of Kirigakure, and ran a finger across the carved in groove along the centre of the symbol, just by touch he could tell it had been put there by an actual Kunai knife. It was as if it had lept off the page of an issue of Shonen Jump’s popular Manga series, Naruto.

Jeremy had fallen silent when Magic Man had spoken out to them, and had grown even more suspicious when the merchant had pulled out the exact items they needed. However, the lure of the green contact lenses and survival knife that looked far more accurate to his cosplay got the better of him. “I’ve got a hundred and fifty bucks for the contacts and knife,” he said as he reached into his coat for his wallet.

The magic man smiled as he nodded at Jeremy. “That will do, price is not a bother to me,” he said with a small hint of a joke in what he said, even though what he said was not funny..at all.

“I might have a little money for the horned headpiece,” John said as he removed the doll from his pocket so he could check it freely. “Here we go, some loose change,” John said cheerily as he pulled out a few coins, before taking a moment to count them in his head. “one-fifteen… one-forty… I have two dollars and forty cents. Is that enough?” With a nod from Magic Man, John put the coins on the counter of the stall and picked up the headpiece he had just purchased, admiring that the horns were just the right length for his cosplay, and the slight padding on the inside of the band making them comfortable to wear.

Clayton, who stayed quiet when his friends were talking, inspected the hat, it had a wide brim, but not overly wide, something he liked and knew he would need. It was made of leather, not cheap leather either, real good leather. The best part he would say was it was brown, so he didn’t have to paint it and then mess up the material. He took a look into his pocket and cursed as he had literally no money at all. “Shit…”

The Magic man nodded at all of them before he smirked. “Now..here is my gift for you,” he said in a chipper tone before he snapped his fingers. The Kirigakure symbol attached itself to Itachi almost magically; the contacts and knife flew at Jeremy, the contacts flying into his eyes and locked in place, a process that was very painful, while the knife attached itself to his belt. The horns on John locked in place, being unable to be taken off while the same was for Clayton’s hat, which had flew onto his noggin. “What the hell?!” Clayton shouted as he tried to pry it off, the hat not budging in response.

Itachi screamed in pain as he pulled the part of his hood covering his face and grabbed at his left eye as he felt it be gouged out as a long jagged scar seemed to rip itself into existence through it, the contact he wore sliced and sunk its way into his cornea and became it and as it finished and the scars rapidly healed he lost the vision on his left side, before he fell unconscious.

“Gah-” John gasped in pain as he felt his contacts burn into his corneas. He willed himself to think through the pain and realized he couldn't feel the headband anymore. He went to take the headpiece off to see what was going on, but no matter how much he dug under his hair, he couldn't find the band. He quickly realized that the horns were still there, but they were fixed in place.

Jeremy didn’t fare any better than his friends, yelling in pain as it felt like the contacts were burning into his eyes, fusing with them. “What’re you doing, you son of a bitch!?!” He yelled out, clutching his eyes even as he felt as if something were invading his mind.

As all these events were coming to an end, the three that were cosplaying started losing consciousness. The last thing the three heard before blacking out completely was Magic Man’s response: “Since you all seem to like dress-up so much… I thought you'd like to play the ultimate dress up: becoming your costumes.”

“I don’t fucking dress up you son of a bitch!” Clayton shouted as he rushed for the Magic Man, the only thing happening to him was the fact that he was wearing a red vest with a white shirt, the sleeves folded at just after the elbow. On top of this was a brown trench coat with many different pouches and holsters to hold equipment. But before he could land a punch, his face had met the floor as he too went unconscious.

End of Prologue