Game of Thrones: Equestria

The rain had been pouring heavily for the past few days since Beorn had returned to Canterlot to sheath his father’s sword back into its scabbard. Now that he reclaimed what was taken, his value as a King was recognized even more. However, reclaiming Kingslayer came with a heavy toll that affected some more than others. The people of Canterlot had gathered at the town square, by the Royal’s order, as a pyre surrounded by flowers sat in the center. Everyone was dressed in black as they gazed at the one being honored.

The body of the old samurai Changeling, Crafty Dodger, was dressed in ceremonial funeral robes and had his blades resting next to him. He had a peaceful expression on his lifeless face, and the Changelings present all wept at the loss of a noble soul. However, none were in more emotional strain than Queen Chrysalis and Princess Crysta, who wore black dresses and covered their faces with black veils. The Queen stared at Crafty, her lover, the father of her daughter and late children, with no tears shed. She couldn’t bring herself to cry, for they had all dried up the day her other children perished. Now all she had was an emotionless gaze as Crysta held her mother’s hand tightly.

Beorn and the other royals stood beside them as a thick bandage was tied around Beorn’s head that covered his eye. The doctors tried to save it, but the injury proved too severe. Now the young king had only the one good eye left, and it too had its sad gaze on the fallen Changeling. The moment of silence that the crowd shared was soon ended by Celestia slowly standing up and walking towards the podium. She cleared her throat to steady her nerves so as to speak clearly to say something for Crafty.

“Once more, this war has robbed a nation of a noble soul…but it also has stolen another father yet again. Crafty Dodger was a loyal ally to Equestria and to his Queen but most of all to his beloved daughter, whom he was forced to watch from afar but in his final moments, I was told that he smiled simply from being called Father by the one child he vowed to protect no matter what.”

Crysta wiped a tear from her eye as Celestia ended her eulogy.

“May we remember his last act of honor in service to his family and strive to be just as great.”

Celestia walked back to her family and sat down as she patted her pregnant belly. Her unborn daughter gave a small kick in response which made her smile a little but it soon faded since the atmosphere was too heavy. Beorn then decided to step up to say a few words and walked to the podium. He cleared his throat and he looked to his fiancé who was trying her best not to break down.

“My father told me about Crafty Dodger,” Beorn said solemnly.

“Next to Uncle Marshall, Uncle Shining, even my new Godfather, Dimitri Lockdrom, Crafty was one of the most admirably honorable men he’d ever had the pleasure of meeting. His fighting skills, his iron will, and his somewhat crude humor made him a great comrade my father was proud to fight side by side with during the Great War. I admired Sir Crafty, nearly as much as my own father, and it is a cruel shame that he was taken away from us so soon.” Beorn paused as he then looked to Crysta again.

“My godfather once told me something before I first went to the front lines and after my father passed away. He asked me some things that I didn’t really understand when I asked him what it means when someone dies. When a bullet or arrow pierces their heart? No…When he’s attacked by an incurable disease? No…Or when he dies on the field of battle in front of all his followers? No. A person dies when people forget him.” Crysta could not hold it in any longer as tears began to spill from her eyes as she covered her mouth. Many other onlookers also shed tears.

“So even if Crafty Dodger, Wulfric Warborn, or any other people who fell during this conflict, they will never truly disappear.”

With their final words now said, the Changeling Honor Guard marched in unison with torches as they surrounded their former leader but before his body was lit, one guard took his swords and presented them to Beorn as he humbly bowed before the young king.

“My lord, it is our hope that you will take our master's blades and use them in your quest to kill Blueblood. It is only right since it was his sword that helped you reclaim your fathers.”

Beorn looked to the queen who gave an approving nod as he reached for the wakizashi to glimpse at the blade.

“I swear, this blade will be the last thing that bastard feels before I end him!”

With tears of pride, the samurai bowed once more before rejoining his comrades to cremate Crafty’s body and place the ashes in a ceremonial jar for the queen and her daughter.

The rest of the day was met with silence as Celestia soon later called for a meeting with the royals. They had all met in the council room and said nothing for several minutes before someone said something.

“Chrysalis…I-” Rainbow tried to say.

“Do not speak,” Chrysalis said, raising her hand.

“No words said or any more amount of tears shed shall change what has happened. My tears are all dried up, and now all I have left is Crysta.” Chrysalis turned to her daughter who was still wiping her eyes as she placed a hand on her shoulder.

“Or…so I believed.”

“What do you mean?” Applejack wondered.

Chrysalis stood up slowly and gently placed a hand on her stomach.

“I had believed I was barren…but my time of the month was late.”

“Late? Hold a moment…” Marshall said, as the other’s eyes went wide.

“Crafty’s final blessing he left behind,” the Queen said with a sad smile as she rubbed her belly.

“But when-!” Luna was prepared to ask when Chrysalis turned to face them.

“The day after Beorn accepted my daughter as his betrothed, we made love…also before he left to join the front lines.” The queen’s voice began to tremble as the tears finally came pouring out.

“I wanted to tell him so badly! I…I wanted us to be a real family, for him to be called father by his children!!”

“Oh Chrysalis.” Celestia spoke sadly as she hugged her.

“How can this happen to us?”

“Please don’t cry, mother!” Crysta said as she hugged her mother from behind.

“Oh but how can I not cry, my darling? You finally met your father only to have him stolen from you…”

“But you still have me!” Crysta sobbed as Celestia let her go to embrace her daughter.

“And my future siblings! You’re not alone!”

“My sweet child, I love you so much…thank you.”

“You also have me.” Beorn stood up and approached Chrysalis.

“My father always spoke highly of you, and I too respect you as a man…and as your future son-in-law. Winning this war must be our top priority, so that my father and Crafty can rest without regret.”

“You are so much like your father,” Chrysalis said proudly as she hugged Beorn gently and he returned the embrace.

“I look forward to the day you wed my daughter, she has chosen a fine young stag.”

“On the topic,” Marshall spoke up, pulling out his holo crystal.

“I spoke with Dimitri the other day and explained what happened. He wanted me to call him because he said he had an idea.”

Marshall tapped the holo crystal and placed it on the table. The crystal shined and an image of Dimitri showed up as he was loading bullets in his six-shooters. The human glanced up to see everyone and sighed as he set his weapon aside.

“So we’re all here?” Dimitri said, and they nodded.

“Good, so first I’d like to ask something of Celestia and Luna. Do you two know anything of a kingdom that dwells deep within the border of the Enchanted Forest? Anything by the name of Thicket?”

“Do you mean King Aspen?” Said Luna.

“We haven’t seen him in ages, in fact the last time we saw him was after the forest overtook the castle.”

“And when you made that terrible joke.” Celestia said as she rolled her eyes.

“That’s him. I have an idea that-GOOD GOD! Beorn, what the hell happened to your eye?!”

“I lost it during my fight with Blueblood,” Beorn said but then showed Dimitri Kingslayer.

“But I finally got this back.”

“Wulfric’s sword…he’d be very proud of you, kid. I know I sure as hell am.”

“So what about King Aspen?” Celestia asked.

“Right, well this might seem a little far-fetched, but I think those deers might have a way to help Twilight track down and deal with Tirek and Sendak. Considering those two had stood hoof-to-hoof against one another, if you recall that war you fought with Aspen, Celestia.”

“Yes but I also recall Aspen does not welcome guests in the Enchanted Forest. He will not take kindly to trespassers.”

“That brings me to the next part of the plan. Beorn will negotiate an alliance.”

“Me?” Beorn asked, sounding a bit surprised.

“Good idea.” Said Marshall.

“This will be a good chance to test your political skills, plus the deers of the forest will likely speak peacefully to one of their own.”

“Deer? You mean the lost clan?” Beorn asked, catching everyone’s attention.

“Lost clan?”

“Yeah. The elders told us that long ago, a clan left the northlands to escape the freezing cold of the north and that they were given powers over the trees by Jörð, the Goddess of Nature.”

“Huh, didn’t expect that kind of history with the Deer,” Lock said under his breath.

“But are you sure it’s a good idea for me to go? Aunt Celestia just said that Aspen doesn’t welcome strangers.”

“The rest of us would gladly go on your stead to meet with Aspen, but we unfortunately are stretched too thin due to our responsibilities,” Celestia said.

“Speaking of which, Dimitri, how is your rescue mission going for my son?”

“We’re about to land in Saddle Arabia in a few hours, the Night Witches and I have a diversion set up and will put it into action as soon as possible.”

“What is your plan exactly?” Marshall questioned.

“Well…and just to be straight, this was your daughter’s idea, Selene is gonna act as bait to distract Saladin while I pose as a rich noble who is offering her as a peace treaty.”

“That’s our daughter.” Luna sighed.

“Rarity and her squad will pose as entertainers and try to gather intel on the prince. I only hope we’re not too late.”

“Do what you can Dimitri but please…save my son.”

Dimitri nodded in response to Celestia’s plea before ending the transmission. The royals then cleared the room to discuss the battle reports on the western front and to also discuss the actions of the noble who fled during the attack from the undead; Lord Dapper.

The lord regent read through a small stack of papers while Dapper stood there as calm as possible with a smug grin on his face, thinking he was going to be commended for his service on the front lines.

“Lord Dapper.” Marshall finally spoke.

“I understand that during the skirmish with the undead, you and your men fled leaving many civilians behind…”

The grin on Dappers’ face began to fade as Marshall continued.

“The report also says that you abandoned many wounded and even ordered those aboard your ship to be thrown off. Why is that?”

“Th-That is absurd! I would never do something so dishonorable!” Dapper argued.

“Is it? Then how do you explain the multiple eyewitnesses who saw you literally grab an injured soldier, who by the way had only a wounded arm, and damn near tossed him over the edge? If it weren’t for the other soldiers’ intervening, you would also be guilty of murder.”

“I-I…”

“Furthermore, I also know the words said by you during the whole ordeal.” Marshall glared at the noble.

“You said, there is no place for those who can’t hold their own. I’ll see to it that you all hang for your insubordination for nearly getting me killed in the crossfire. I only know of one stallion who is as thick headed and narcissistic as you, and we’re at war with said stallion. And here I thought, despite the numerous arguments we have during court, that you had at least some sense of reason; how wrong I was.”

“Lord Marshall, I-I assure you that I-”

“SHUT UP!” Marshall barked as he banged his fist against his desk.

“I expected better from you, Dapper, you disappoint me.”

“Disappoint you…?” The noble muttered, making Marshall arch a brow.

“Disappoint you?! How dare you, sir?! How dare you accuse me of being thick! The only ones who are thick are you and your wives!”

“Dapper Crunch, stand down!” Marshall ordered.

“I will not! I have the right to speak my mind! Regardless if you are the Lord Regent! For 15 years, we have kept our muzzles shut, for 15 years we have had to watch as you allowed those savages to roam our glorious city and settle across Equestria! You would even allow them to build lives here and wed our own kind! Did you forget what they did to us during the Great War?! The lives ruined by their savage ways, the humiliation they put the mares through?!”

“We were able to win the war because of Wulfric and the Warborns!” Marshall snapped.

“The combined might of the Knights of the Golden Sun, the samurai changelings, and the Warborn Clan is how we were able to live in peace for 15 years before Blueblood!”

“Hogwash! They assisted us, yes, but they should have returned from whence they came and stayed there! It’s no wonder most of the court aligned themselves with Blueblood, because they saw just how ridiculous and unnatural this alliance is!”

“Is this how you truly feel?” Marshall asked calmly.

“It is not just me, there are a number of us on the court who share my views. We will all die for Equestria, even against Blueblood and his totalitarian ways, but we simply cannot continue to support this alliance any longer. You may hold resentment towards me for saying such things, but it is my personal opinion on the matter. If you wish to address it, then I suggest you take up the matter in court.” Dapper turned to leave and opened the door before peering over his shoulder.

“And for the record, it is worth whatever punishment you have in store for me.” With that, the Dapper left Marshall to contemplate what had just transpired.

The lord regent rubbed both his temples as the stress was building within his mind. To think, the court still rejected the Northerners with such disdain, even after all they had done for Equestria. Marshall knew he had to do something before, gods forbid, a coup d’état sprung up within the ranks. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his holo crystal to call someone who might have the answers he seeks. He tapped the crystal and waited until a miniature projection of Dimitri showed up. He was dressed in his disguise and had his back turned as he straightened his tie until he looked over his shoulder.

“Marshall? Hey man, you okay? You look like your head’s about to explode,” Dimitri said with concern.

“Just had an argument with a member of the court.” Marshall sighed while pouring himself some cider.

“Despite the part they played in the war, many here in Canterlot are still untrusting of the northlanders and I fear the court may be up to something.”

“Seems racism is a plague no matter what world you’re in. So what are you gonna do with this guy?”

Marshall thought long and hard as he went over the report before tucking the papers away neatly in a folder and signing a few documents.

“I’ll be relieving Lord Dapper of his military command and replacing him with the newly gazetted Captain Boulder Bash. That should ruffle his mane for a bit.” Marshall stated before handing the documents to one of the guards.

“This isn’t something new for me, a whole race of people being segregated and oppressed just because of their appearance.”

“How so?”

“Humans have a dark history with shit like this. There was an era when we too enslaved other humans for a long time before the trade was abolished.”

“Seriously? That seems so unexpected coming from you.”

“Oh trust me, humans are far from being perfect. We’ve done shit that would make what Dainn did look like a slap on the wrist. On Earth, humans are prone to chaos and violence, it’s why we’ve had not one but two World Wars.”

“Two? I’m amazed your species hasn’t brought itself to extinction.” Marshall said as he took a swig.

“So aside from relieving him of command, I don’t know how to handle this but as for Beorn? I’m putting him on mandatory medical leave. The boy has been through enough.”

“I heard through the grapevine that he’s scored three new girls for his harem.” Lock smirked as he and Marshall shared a short laugh.

“Like father, like son I suppose.”

“Listen Marshall, regarding the issue with the nobles, you should appeal to them. Show them all the good that the Northerners have done for Equestria.”

“I already tried, many times, I always remind them of-”

“I’m not talking about the Great War. I’m talking about what they have done in the past 15 years since then. I’m not from this world, so enlighten them. Remind them of. all the things Wulfric and the clans did for Equestria for the past 15 years since the Great War.”

Marshall froze for a moment as Lock provided him the answer he was looking for and raised a glass to him as he said.

“My friend, you are a genius.” The lord regent complimented as he downed his drink in one gulp.

“Onto more pressing matters. How goes the preparations for the rescue mission going?”

“We’re ready.” Lock said with confidence as he donned his disguise.

“Good. Check back soon.”

The communication ended as Marshall deactivated the crystal and finished the last of his paperwork. On his way back to his chambers, he bumped into Gregor who was escorting Ragna, Hreidar’s mother, through the castle with arms linked.

“Oh! Marshall, we were just on our way to see you.”

“Then your timing is perfect Sir Gregor. I just finished my work for the day, join me?”

“Gladly.” Ragna said with a smile as they followed.

“Is Princess Celestia feeling any better?”

“Yes. Thank the heavens.” Marshall sighed as they continued towards his private chambers. The lord regent eyed how their arms were linked and arched a knowing brow.

“So how are things faring with you two? We haven’t spoken for a number of months and I see you are well acquainted with one another.”

“Indeed we are,” Ragna said with a warm smile as she leaned up and pecked Gregor on his cheek.

“Gregor has been a wonderful gentleman these past months and has helped me rediscover what it means to be loved, and to love another.”

“Never in my years did I expect to share my heart with a Stonehoof, no offense love, but here I am with my arm around this wonderful woman,” Gregor said.

“I’m truly happy for you two, and what about Hreidar?” Marshall wondered.

“Someone say my name?”

The three turned to see the young stag in question and Marshall was surprised. The boy had grown a few more inches and his physique had bulked up considerably. His hair was tied in a long braid and he wore traditional Viking armor, similar to Gregor’s. As he passed by a few maids, he actually winked at them, causing them to blush and giggle at the gesture.

“Hreidar?” Marshall said and the young stag nodded with a confident smile.

“Good sun above, boy, look at you! You’re as tall as I, and as muscle bound as Gregor!”

“Ohh, my baby is such an adonis now!” Ragna cooed as she pinched his cheek.

“MOTHER?!?” Hreidar shrieked as he began to blush.

“Oh come now lad, let your mother compliment you.” Gregor laughed while ruffling his mane, making Marshall smile.

“Hm. You look like a family already.” The lord regent said, making the couple blush as they finally entered his private study and sat down for tea.

“Is it true? The king got his father’s sword back?” Gregor asked while Ragna prepared his cup.

“Yes but he lost his eye in the process.” Marshall sighed after adding some sugar to his.

“Hmph! That will serve as a badge of honor. I heard that bastard Blueblood lost his arm as well.”

“Language, Gregor.” Ragna scolded as she handed him his cup.

“Well he did.”

“I wish I was there with Beorn,”Hreidar sighed.

“But Sir Gregor insisted I remain behind to train and not make too much of a public image.”

“The elders still do not personally know of you, boy, there is still time to prepare for your reveal, but I still fear what they might do with you and your mother,” Gregor stated.

“You cannot let the elders rule your uncertainty, my love,” Ragna said as she placed her hand on his.

“They just need to see what you see in us.”

“How exactly can I do that?”

“By showing them that Hreidar is nothing like Dainn since he has been under your tutelage for months now. Especially since you and I are together, me, a Stonehoof. Do you regret sharing your heart to me?”

“Of course not.”

Ragna smiled as she leaned in and kissed Gregor on the lips.

“Then what is there to worry about?”

“That…they might judge you for your bastard brother’s crimes…” Gregor admitted while holding her cheek.

“I fear what they’ll do to you and your son. I love the boy as if he were my own.”

Ragna could only smile as she held Gregors hand, assuring everything would be fine when Hreidar made a bold suggestion.

“If they won’t listen to words...then perhaps they’ll listen to steel.”

“What are you saying boy?”

“A Holmgang. The elders’ best champion against me.”

“That is absurd!” Gregor snapped.

“What is a Holmgang again?” Marshall wondered.

“It is a duel that is used to settle disputes between the clans,” Gregor said.

“Sometimes they end if one combatant yields…or dies.”

“Hreidar, what would a Holmgang solve? You could be killed!” Ragna pleaded.

“But the clans will listen! They value deeds above words as all northerners do.”

“Sadly, the boy is right.” Gregor said, much to Ragna’s displeasure.

“Gregor no! You said he was like your son!”

“And as such, we should support him...he’s made up his mind.”

“Mother, I swear I shall be alright. Gregor has taught me all I know, so I’ll be sure to win.”

“But…I don’t want to lose you,” Ragna whimpered.

“You won’t, because I don’t plan on losing.”

Ragna knew her son all too well. When his mind was made up about something, he would never back down.

“Very well,” Ragna sighed.

“Just please make sure you come back to me.”

“I will, Sir Gregor? Please call the elders and King Beorn. It is time for me to make my official debut.”

Gregor did as the young stag requested and soon word began to spread that the living heir of Dainn Stonehoof had come forward to submit himself to the judgement of the clans. The dueling square was set up in the castle courtyard where the nobles of both Equestria and the Northlands had gathered along with a few soldiers.

Elder Thorodd began the announcements as Hreidar stepped forward, ignoring the rotten vegetables and insults thrown at him.

“We are gathered here to bear witness to the judgement of this young stag. Hreidar Snow, Son of Dainn.”

The crowd booed while Beorn silently gripped his chair to the point of snapping the wood until Crysta and Azury’s managed to calm him down.

“Personally, I too would rather see the last of Dainn Stonehoof’s blood snuffed out from this very world. But…the boy has issued a Holmgang, and has been given his majesty’s blessing. As such, we the elders of the clans shall procure our champion whom the boy shall face. Alrik Beardcutter! Come forth!”

“What?! Alrik?! Are they mad?!” Gregor yelped as he snapped his head to the other entrance of the ring.

Heavy footsteps were heard as a behemoth of a stag strode in. He was taller than Gregor, and possibly had more muscle on his body. His hair was completely shaved off, save for a long braided ponytail that reached his lower back. Scars littered his body and his armor consisted of Northern grieves, waist guard, and a single plated shoulder pauldron that covered his left shoulder. On his back was a large claymore that was almost as large as the stag as he stood in front of Hreidar and towered over him.

“By the gods! Who the hell is that?!” Azurys wonderd.

“That’s…Sir Alrik of the Beardcutter Clan,” Beorn said in an uneasy tone.

“Beardcutter?” Crysta repeated.

“Think of it like scalping but on the chin.”

“Gross!” Azurys cringed as the brute gave a loud bellow to the crowd and shouted at Hreidar like a pro wrestler before a match.

“You ready boy? Cause once I’m through with you, I’m gonna pay your mother a visit!”

Hreidar gripped his hatchet as Alrik continued to show off to the crowd. Beorn stood from his seat to state the rules of the match.

“This fight will end when one of you submits or dies! Each fighter will be given two shields and no more! Fighters ready!?”

The crowd cheered as Alrik made his sword tip drop to the ground with a loud thump as he grinned at his opponent while Hreidar unhooked his axe and grabbed the first shield.

“BEGIN!!”

In a surprise twist, Hreidar threw his shield aside, daring Alrik to come at him and that is just what the brute did before he was struck in the muzzle by the blunt end of his axe. The large stag staggered as Hreidar zipped around him and jumped on top of him. He grabbed Alrik’s antlers and pulled with all his might.

“HHHRRRRRRRAAAAAHHHH!!”

To everyone’s complete shock, Hreidar managed to pull Alrik back and bring him crashing down on his back. Alrik grunted but only to be met with Hreidar landing on his chest and began beating his fists into his opponent’s face. Each strike felt heavy and fast-paced as Hreidar didn’t seem to stop in his onslaught. Alrik managed to grab Hreidar’s fist and throw him to the side so that he could lift himself up. Once he did, he cracked his neck as blood dripped from his nose and lip.

“You have fire in you, boy, it’s a shame I have to snuff it out,” Alrik grinned.

“Then again, it’s not, since I must be the one to end your poisonous bloodline in honor of Wulfric Warborn. I’ll finish what he started.”

Alrik charged once again with his sword crashing down for another devastating blow that split the earth. A small clump of dirt managed to hit Hreidar in the eyes, blinding him for a moment.

“Now I have you!!” Alrik shouted as he dropped his sword and trapped the young stag in a bear hug.

“NO!!” Ragna shouted as her son was slowly being squeezed to death.

“Beorn, stop this!” Crysta pleaded.

“I can’t! One of them must win!” Beorn shouted as he looked on helplessly.

Hreidar could feel his armor being crushed with his body while desperately trying to wriggle loose. Alrik gave a sickening smile as his opponent continued to squirm and looked to Ragna who was crying her eyes out.

“Say goodbye to mommy ya little bastard! Ha ha ha-!!”

SHANK!!

“AAARRGH!! MY EYE!!”

The crowd gasped in shock as Alrik howled in pain and saw a piece of Hreidar’s antler buried in his eye socket.

“Crazy bastard…” Gregor said after noticing a chunk of his antlers were missing.

Hreidar seized this moment to grab the shield he discarded and began smashing it against Alrik over and over until the lumbering brute was laying in a pool of his own blood.

“ENOUGH!!” Beorn shouted with both arms raised.

Hreidar stopped just as he was about to finish the job. Alrik’s face was swollen and bloody as he barely gargled a response. Hreidar grunted in pain since some of his ribs were cracked from Alrik’s hug as he managed to stagger to his hooves. He breathed heavily as the crowd was silent and he looked down at his opponent. He then looked at his shield, only to toss it away.

“I am not my father,” Hreidar said.

“I may have his face, but I am nothing like him. He tortured and raped his own sister, something that is considered taboo in the North. You all think I am here to reclaim the throne, well you’re wrong! I want nothing to do with the throne! In fact, Beorn Warborn is the true heir to the throne! He is more deserving of it than anyone! I cannot expect you all to forgive me for what my father did, and I am content with that since I would feel the same. All I want is to at least try to earn your trust as time goes on, and no longer hide in the shadows. You may choose to resent me for the rest of your lives, and again, I am fine with it because your hate is justified.” Hreidar turned to Beorn and the Elders.

“What say you?”

The elders turned to the young king who stepped down from the stage to meet his friend at eye level before facing the crowd.

“This warrior has shown courage!” Beorn shouted.

“Not just through strength of arms but strength of heart! And are we not the people of the North? Do we not value courage?!” He asked with many of the crowd nodding yes.

“It is true he has the blood of a Stonehoof but he is as much of a Northlander as you or I!! So I say that this warrior…this stag whom I am glad to call friend shall not be judged for past crimes committed by his father and I will have words with any who object!!”

At first there was silence and then a rythmic thumping as the soldiers began pounding their shields in unison.

“Hreidar…Hreidar…Hreidar! Hreidar!! HREIDAR!! HREIDAR!!”

In moments the whole crowd followed as Beorn held up Hreidars right hand and the cheering grew even louder.

“Now everyone, a moment please! I have an announcement to make.” Beorn shouted as they quieted down.

“Sir Gregor, step forward.”

Gregor stepped out with Ragna holding onto him as they knelt before Beorn.

“Yes my king?”

“Gregor. You served with my father during the war, you have proven yourself to be a great warrior time and again.” Beorn said before he unsheathed Kingslayer and held it above Gregors head.

“It is only right you should be rewarded for such service. So by my right and authority as king, I hereby name you Chief Warrior!!”

Beorn tapped both Gregor’s shoulders as the older stag smiled proudly. He then stood up tall as he faced the crowd and they all cheered for him as well. Ragna reached up on the tips of her hooves to kiss him on his cheek. Hreidar smiled as he held his side and stepped towards Gregor and his mother.

“Congratulations, Lord Gregor,” Hreidar said.

“You too, Hreidar, you’ve come a long way from the young stag I met months ago.”

“I’m just glad you can finally show your face in public without anyone throwing something at you,” Beorn said.

“Seems like this is your first step in reforming the Stonehoof name.”

“I certainly hope so,” Hreidar said.

“You know, I’ve always wondered, even after all these years. Why did Dainn hold the Warborn’s with such disdain?” Gregor wondered.

“Probably due to the legend of the first Warborn,” Ragna said, making the stags turn to her.

“You…do not know?”

“This is the first I’ve heard of it, not even my father mentioned it,” Beorn shook his head.

“During my captivity, Dainn would prattle on about his hatred for the Warborns. All because of the blood that flows through their veins,” Ragna said.

“We can take it from here, my lady.”

The group turned to see Thorodd and his fellow elders approach them.

“We were waiting until you were a little older, but since young Hreidar is pardoned and Gregor promoted, the timing seems just about right. We shall tell you the legend of the first Warborn.”

The group soon vacated the arena until they arrived at the Elders’ private council room. The royals, Gregor, Ragna, and Hreidar sat at the table as Thorodd cleared his throat to begin his tale.

“In ancient times, it is said that Tyr; The God of Justice descended from Asgard after the beauty of a mortal doe caught his eye. The two fell in love and had many children which he taught the art of war and the values of honor, chivalry, and justice before returning to the world above.” The elder spoke with clarity as he caught the attention of a few more guards.

“The children soon had families of their own and formed a great clan that would serve as the protectors of the north who only fought to protect the weak and strike down evil in times of war. Thus was born The Warborn Clan.”

Beorn was in awe of hearing such a tale and began to understand why his father had a strong sense of justice and the need to stop Blueblood just as he had stopped Dainn.

“You see my friends. Since the Warborn Clan served as protectors of the North, it was only natural that the Stonehoof Clan would try to exterminate us for our blood is that of the god of justice.”

“So he left us for dead and conquered Equestria just to prove he was more worthy of the blood of Tyr?” Gregor spat bitterly.

“Talk about holding a grudge for no reason,” Beorn said.

“Indeed, this story has been passed down from generation to generation of each Warborn Chieftain,” Thorodd explained.

“Your grandfather told Wulfric when he turned eighteen and he was supposed to tell you once you turned eighteen, gods rest his soul.”

“You see, young master, just as Lord Wulfric vanquished the evil king, you must also follow through with your destiny and slay the enemy whom we fight now.”

“I plan to get even with Blueblood anyway,” Beorn said with conviction.

“Hmm, forgive me, but I do not believe it is Blueblood you must face to bring true peace,” Elder Froni hummed as he stroked his grey beard.

“He’s not? How come?”

“Though there will come the time when you face Blueblood one last time, I believe the true enemy you must vanquish…is that King of Wendigos.”

“Him?” Marshall said, sounding surprised.

“I hate to break it to you but he’s gonna need a few more years before he faces that monster! And those others that were with him…”

“Others?” Ragna inquired.

“The king had several officers with him when we last met. I suspect they were members of his court when he was alive.” Gregor replied while remembering the undead minotaur he faced in the north. His expression became blank for a moment until Ragna held his arm and smiled.

“We can worry about that some other time. Now we need to focus on our current situation,” Luna said while rubbing her very bloated belly.

“My sister has received word that Twilight and Apple Jewel have run into some complications in the Nether Lands.”

“What is the condition of King Vorak and Queen Haydon?” Beorn asked.

“She says that they are stable but are still recovering from their injuries. Neither of them are fit to step up to l rule their kingdom, so Scorpan has taken command. Twilight is helping him all she can, but it is beginning to be too much for the young gargoyle prince.”

“And Tirek?” Marshall asked.

“Still at large with Sendak, but there haven’t been any reports from the border patrol from any sight of them. Discord is assisting them on that front in any way he can.”

“Gods above, it’s like whenever we take a step in the right direction we end up taking a few steps back,” Beorn sighed in irritation.

“I believe you should begin your negotiation mission to Thicket in a few days time,” Celestia advised.

“If what Dimitri says is true, then we can finally take care of that accursed centaur.

Suddenly, the sounds of running footsteps came barreling down from outside as the door slammed open. A certain rainbow haired pegasus and farm mare, both with very pregnant bellies as Celestia and Luna, glared their eyes at Beorn with wide smiles but soon both gasped in horror at the sight of his missing eye.

“Uh…hi moms,” Beorn waved nervously.

“Oh my gosh!! Beorn, what happened to you?!?” Rainbow shrieked as she cupped his cheeks to get a better look.

“Mom, I’m fine!” The young king whined before being hugged by Applejack.

“Ohh my poor darlin’!” Applejack said while giving him a few kisses.

“Ma, seriously! I’m fine!”

Despite their shock, both mothers were overjoyed to have their little stag home and took turns to hug and kiss him with a few tears here and there.

“Ohh Beorn, your eye…”

“It’s fine mom, this just makes me twenty percent cooler,” Beorn joked, giving his mothers signature grin to make her smile.

WHACK!

“This is not something to joke about!” Rainbow scolded as she slapped her son upside the head.

“Ow! What was that for?!” Beorn whined as he rubbed the back of his head.

“For bein’ a reckless idiot!” Applejack snapped.

“Have ya any idea how worried we were?! Did you forget about your baby siblings still on the way?!”

“They’re at it again, Thora,” Luta sighed as she walked in with her sister. Luta’s belly was also bulging as much as the other pregnant mares as she laid a hand on her stomach.

“Lady Applejack, Lady Rainbow Dash, what have we said about over exerting yourselves?” Throa scolded.

“You both need to calm yourselves for your babies sakes. I mean, look at Luta, the doctor said her little buck is as healthy as can be because she’s been resting most of the time.”

Both mares took a deep breath to relax before hugging their son again and finally noticing Kingslayer strapped to their son’s back.

“You got it back…” Rainbow gasped as her son showed them their family heirloom.

“Yes.” Was all Beorn would say as they placed their hands on the sword.

“Oh Wulfric…I wish you were here,” Applejack said and could see her son looking more like his father.

“You have done your clan a great honor, Beorn,” Marshall said.

“I know, now I just have to learn how to wield both a war hammer and a claymore,” Beorn said as he held both weapons in his hands.

“I’m amazed you’re able to hold them both at the same time,” Crysta said.

“Must be from that potion he drank,” Thorodd hummed.

“Besides all that, I have to prepare for my new mission.” Beorn looked out the window to see a tree standing next to it. He gazed at the leaves and noticed a few here and there changing color from green to orange.

“The summer is nearly over, autumn will soon start, and winter after that. That’s when everything will happen all at once. We need to be ready, all of us.”

“Well you can count on me too, Beorn,” Hreidar declared.

“It’s time I finally show my worth, so I’ll be joining you on the front lines.”

Beorn nodded with a smile before his mothers noticed Deshi, Lithos and Ruko all wearing collars that had his name engraved on them.

“And who’re these young ladies?” Applejack asked, placing both hands on her hips and leaning forward slightly with a quirked brow.

“Ah that! Uh well…you see ma, they are um…that is to say-!"

“We’re his new brides,” Ruka smiled as Beorn cringed from her answer.

“Seriously?” Hreidar said.

“Dude, you get more tail than anyone around.”

“That’s my boy alright!” Rainbow smirked.

“And he’s totally his father’s son,” Applejack rolled her eyes.

“Hah! It’s like I said before!” Gregor said as he slapped Beorn’s back hard.

“The boy has moxie!”

“Oof! What can I say, it all just sorta happened,” Beorn cringed.

“So you girls are gonna be my new daughters-in-law?” Rainbow said to the three other wolf girls. The three seemed a tad nervous at first, meeting their fiancé’s mother, but Rainbow just smiled and wrapped the three of them in a big hug.

“My boy is an idiot sometimes, but I can tell you saw him for who he is on the inside. So it’s only natural why you chose to be with him.” Rainbow leaned back to look down at the girls.

“Promise me you’ll keep him out of trouble, okay? That’s all I can ask of you as a mother.”

The girls smiled after Applejack took her turn to hug them as well, making Beorn sigh with relief.

“If it pleases you my lady, we have each brought our most prized jewels as gifts for your family.” Ruko said in a graceful manner as she presented them with an emerald the size of an apple.

Lithos presented a sapphire with a silver necklace and Deshi held up a large topaz that seemed to shine with a light all its own.

“Please accept these gifts.” They all said in unison.

“Oh you girls are the sweetest.” Applejack said.

“But I think it’s best if you hold onto these here jewels. They are your family’s treasure after all.”

“Thank you ma’am.” Ruko smiled.

“Now if you want to give us a REAL present. How about some grandfoals?”

“MA?!?”

“All in good time, miss Applejack,” Crysta giggled.

“All in good time.”

Later

Marshall had personally called a meeting with a handful of nobles who he knew did not agree with the treaty with the Northerners, Dapper Crunch and Upper Crust included. Marshall felt as though he should handle this situation alone so that there wouldn’t be any more setbacks within the council like what happened with Jet Set, especially during such a crucial point in this war. The nobles stared at Marshall as he sat in his chair with his arms crossed, thinking about what to say. Dimitri’s advice gave him an incentive on what to say to appeal to the nobles, only he had many different ways to start.

“I gathered you all here to discuss something that I admittedly failed to acknowledge,” Marshall spoke calmly.

“To those of you who I have gathered for this meeting, I am aware that you do not fully support this alliance we have with the four clans, and I would like to address it. So, one by one, please voice your opinions as to why, after 15 years of peace before Blueblood, you still believe there should be no alliance at all and they should return to their homeland.”

“Indeed.” Dapper replied.

“The changelings are one thing but those filthy northern savages have lingered here long enough!”

“I concur with Lord Dapper.” Said madam Gold Rush.

“Now that the Stonehoof’s are gone, they have no business being here in our lands.”

“And what would be your solution then?” Marshall asked.

“Simply give them the boot and tell them never to come back?”

“Exactly!” Dapper exclaimed with a finger pointed at the lord regent.

“Those caribou turned our once beloved city into a place of rape, drugs and murder! Countless stallions, mares and foals suffered under their hooves!”

“Oh no doubt about that.” Marshall admitted.

“But don’t be so quick to put all the blame on them when almost half the ponies gathered here-including YOU Lord Dapper, were eager to join sides with those bastards rather than fight for your homeland!!”

Much murmuring was heard amongst the council after hearing that statement. Though they hated to admit it, Marshall was right.

“I too was forced to serve that bastard Blueblood up until he used me as a scapegoat for Shining Armor who at that time was in exile with his pregnant wife!”

Marshall took a moment to calm down and recompose himself before speaking again.

“It took a foreign army from a distant land to help take back our kingdom and restore the princesses to their throne. While it was the caribou who destroyed our land, it was also the caribou who helped restore it.”

Marshall would prove his point by showing an old map of Ponyville via holo-crystal.

“Ponyville was nothing but a small town on the map, even with Princess Twilight residing there and during the war it was one of the largest markets for sex slaves anywhere in Equestria.” He then changed the image to a more updated version that showed the local market bustling with crowds of not only ponies but almost every other race in Equestria.

“But after the war, King Wulfric established trade routes, offered us goods we could find nowhere else.” He paused to look at madam Gold Rush.

“Tell me madam, what fur is that?”

“Oh why it’s pure tatzlwurm fur.”

“And where did you get it?”

“From...a fur trader up north…”

Marshall then turned to Fancy Pants who had just finished polishing his monocle.

“Fancy Pants, surely you have heard of the drinks they brew up there?”

“Indeed. Their mead is truly an exquisite beverage, one might dare say it is the nectar of the gods.”

“All this is not enough, Lord Marshall,” Dapper huffed.

“Just because they may have established new merchandise and trade routes, does not absolve them of their nature! They are savages, the lot of them! It’s only a matter of time before they too decide to rise up and take Equestria by force!”

“Dapper, just what made you become like this?” Marshall said sadly.

“I remember you were once a humble soul before the war, why must you act like this now?”

“Because I love my country,” Dapper stated.

“Ponies have also been the pinnacle race of this world. Our glorious Princesses are proof of that since they are living goddesses. We ponies have class, humility, and grace while the northerners are brutish and uncivilized. I would rather suffer a thousand deaths than relive what Equestria went through! Once for ponies, always for ponies!”

Surprisingly, Dapper earned himself a round of applause and gained a confident smirk while looking at Marshall.

“So they are savages, you say?”

“Yes.”

“Brutish, uncivilized, prone to violence?”

“Indeed.”

“Were we so different?” Marshall asked.

“Let us look back before the founding of Equestria, before we were a united kingdom. The unicorns were at the top, they ran politics, held the most land and kept most of the gold and jewels for themselves. Pegasus ran the military and controlled the weather, when a tithe wasn’t paid, they’d cause a drought or flood an entire village with the inhabitants still inside!!” Marshall shouted the last part as he divulged Equestria’s dark history.

“And then we have the earth ponies. Ponies like me who were treated less than dirt for not being gifted with wings or magic and were often sold as…what were we sold as Lord Dapper?” He asked, giving a sarcastic smile.

“I asked: What were we sold as, Lord Dapper?”

“…Slaves…” Dapper finally answered, shrinking back into his chair.

“Exactly,” Marshall nodded.

“That is why we fight in this war, so that those times do not become a reality. The Stonehoof’s tried to do it, but failed. And now Blueblood is trying to attempt the same thing, and we must ensure that he fails. Besides, ask yourselves, in the 15 years since the Great War, have the Warborns and clans done anything to give the impression that they want to take control? And do not say it is because they are savages, for they are not, and that is besides the point.”

The entire room was silent, no pony in the council could find the words to counter the lord regents statement.

“Wulfric spent a good deal of his life repairing the damage caused by his race. Do not turn a blind eye to that fact over a simple grudge. If we fail to learn from our own mistakes, we are doomed to repeat them.” That is all Marshall would say as he took his seat with Fancy Pants and a few others smiling proudly at their lord.

“I…I support the alliance,” a noble said.

“Lord Marshall is right, we mustn’t allow our personal grudges define the Warborns,” another noble added.

“I did not want to say anything, but I am in a relationship with one of those shield maids,” a stallion said.

“She may be rough around the edges, but she has become something precious to me. I no longer wish to hide any longer.”

“What say you, Lord Dapper? Lady Crust?” Marshall said to the two remaining nobles.

“Very well…” Upper Crust frowned.

“Upper Crust?!”

“Stow it, Dapper, I no longer wish to listen to your lies! Marshall is right, the Warborns are not a plague, they are a blessing! And…and I too wish to accept them for who they are! Starting with confessing my feelings for the stag who once saved me from becoming a slave to Dainn Stonehoof!”

The crowd gasped at such a confession since Upper Crust was previously married and was not known to have any other relationships.

“May I ask who the lucky man is?” Marshall chuckled a bit.

“His name is Surt, he is one of King Beorn’s officers.” Upper Crust responded while collecting herself.

“He...took care of me when I was separated from my husband.”

“You...you gave yourself to him?!? YOU, a married mare?!?” Dapper shouted in disgust.

“Is Top Notch his son then?!?”

“NO!! I made sure that he was definitely my ex-husband’s foal but yes...one night, I gave myself to Surt or else I would’ve been thrown to the warbeasts…”

“It seems everypony is in agreement now supporting the alliance,” Marshall nodded contently.

“All that is left is you, Dapper.”

“You’re all fools!” Dapper snapped growled.

“I refuse to be part of this council! Have fun reaping what you sow!”

The enraged noble stood up and stormed out of the room. Marshall simply shook his head but thanked the nobles for their newfound support. Once the meeting was adjourned, Upper Crust made her way to the barracks where the vikings were stationed. After asking around, Upper Crust made it to her destination and knocked on the door of one of the soldier’s bunks and waited patiently. The door soon opened to reveal Surt and he was surprised to see the upper class mare.

“Upper Crust! How…unexpected to see you,” Surt said as Upper Crust smiled at her old flame.

“Hello Surt...it’s been a while.” She said nervously after noticing he wasn’t wearing a shirt and despite fifteen years, his body was as fit as ever.

“So what brings you here?” Surt asked with a big yawn.

“I came to...to um…”

“What? You came to what?”

“I...oh buck it!!” Upper Crust cursed before she latched onto him and kissed his lips, catching the old stag off guard.

Surt was surprised at the gesture, but accepted it as he closed the door and they separated for air.

“Upper Crust…?”

“I no longer wish to bury my feelings, Surt, I decided I want to be with you,” Upper Crust said, leaning her head on his chest.

“I…I love you! I’ve loved you for so long, but I was too cowardly and let my pride get the better of me!” Upper Crust looked up to the stag with tearful eyes.

“Unless…the old flame we shared was snuffed out when I chose my former husband?”

“Does this answer your question?” Surt asked before aggressively kissing her and pinning her to the wall as she gave a muffled yelp.

“My passion for you has never stopped burning.” The old stag growled before kissing her shoulder as her blouse lost a few buttons.

“I respected your wish to return to your husband when I learned you were carrying his child but I never stopped loving you.”

“Ah~!” Upper Crust yelped as he pulled her head back to kiss her neck.

“Oh Surt! I’ve longed for this day!” Upper gasped as he managed to pull off her blouse. Her large breasts were on display behind her bra as she looked away bashfully.

“Do I look strange?” Upper asked.

“You’re as beautiful as the night we made love,” Surt whispered as he grasped one of her bosoms.

“That memory has stayed with me for 15 years, and now we shall repeat that night.”

Surt kissed the mare as he guided her to the edge of his bed and he sat down with her straddling him. Upper Crust reached behind to undo her bra so that her breasts would spring free. Surt only smiled warmly as he latched his lips around her nipple and suckled on it.

“Yes, Surt, please hold me,” Upper whined as she wrapped her arms around his head.

“I always knew you were the one, I should have run away with you~!”

“Mmm no.” Surt replied, catching her by surprise.

“It’s only fair your boy got to meet his real father rather than spending his life with a fake one.”

“Mmm~, I still wish he was yours~,” Upper Crust moaned as he placed her on all fours to remove her skirt and panties.

“Remember when we first did this? You were so frightened, thinking I would ravage this beautiful body of yours.”

“But in a way you did~.” Upper Crust said as she bent down further to entice her old lover.

“You gave me pleasures I never thought possible.~”

The mare began swaying her flank in a hypnotic manner before the old stag finally hilted himself inside her and began ramming her slowly.

“Grr! I truly wish we could’ve had a child of our own all those years ago~”

“Ahn~, it’s not too late!” Upper Crust moaned.

“I would love to bear your child as well, Surt, I’ve waited a long time to find the opportunity to be with you! Mmm~! I love you so much! So claim me! Ravage me as you did and make me your mare!”

Surt grunted in response as he thrusted into his old mate hard. He then spun her around on her back and penetrated back into her as he latched his lips onto hers. This was a long time coming for the two, and the wait was well worth it. Their old flame was reignited, their passions rediscovered, and their love brought to light once more.

“You’re mine, Upper Crust,” Surt growled into her ear.

“To love and hold for years to come.”

“Yes!”

“And I will give you what you have dreamed for,” Surt said as he thrusted more into his mate.

“I shall give you my foal!”

Upper Crust’s eyes were rolled back as he became more aggressive and her once quaff mane was turning into a frizzy mess. But she didn’t care as her lover pounded her over and over to the point where both her legs were wrapped tight around his waist.

“Grrr!! Upper Crust…” Surt slowed down for a bit so that they could talk but made sure to keep pace for his mare.

“What about your boy?”

“Top is a-Mmm~- a grown stallion, he’ll understand and besides he-ooh~-is seeing a maid who works at the castle.” She replied before looking Surt in the eye with a seductive grin.

“Now pound me and make sure the whole barracks hears me~!”

“As you wish!”

Surt grabbed both her arms and pounded his mare with all his vigor. Upper Crust’s wails echoed throughout the barracks as her tongue hung out of her muzzle.

“Do you want my foal, Upper?”

“YES!”

“Beg for it!”

“PLEASE! RELEASE YOUR SEED IN ME! MARK ME! MAKE ME A MOTHER AGAIN! I LOVE YOU SURT!”

Surt wasted no effort as he slammed his hips into Upper Crust. With one final push over the edge, Surt erupted deep into Upper’s womb, causing her to scream in pure bliss. Theur climaxes lasted for an unknown amount of time until Surt managed to pull out, causing a wave of his seed to come gushing out. Surt flopped on his back as Upper Crust crawled up next to him and nuzzled his chest.

“I feel so full~,” she cooed, rubbing her belly.

“I’m probably already pregnant after the amount you shot into me.” She looked up to him with a tearful smile.

“If I am, will you still stay with me?”

“Of course I will.” Surt said as they kissed.

“I’m never letting you go again.”

“Mmm Surt~,” Upper Crust purred as he rolled on top of her and they began to make out.

“Can we go again?” The stag asked, making her giggle.

“Mmm if you tie me up, maybe~,” Upper Crust bit her lip as she grinned, knowing that response would get him worked up.

In another part of the Castle, Marshall was standing in front of his office window holding a piece of paper as he watched a large stormcloud rolling into the city.

“Dapper, you fool…” he said as he looked at the paper again. The sheet was Dapper Crunch’s official resignation from the royal council and his declaration to join Blueblood.

The lord regent felt the wind blow against his face. It was beginning to grow colder as rain began to fall from the clouds above.

“Dimitri…please hurry back,” Marshall frowned.

“Winter is coming…”

Elsewhere

The airship carrying Dimitri and the Night Witches landed at the ports of Saddle Arabia. Everyone was dressed in their disguise as Lock transformed into a stallion noble and stood in front of Selene with a pair of handcuffs.

“I’m still unsure about this…” Lock frowned.

“This could go either way, and I don’t mean to jinx it, but the odds seem stacked against us since we’re deep within enemy lines.”

“That is why we cannot fail.” Rarity said as she finished her makeup.

“Places everypony. The show is about to begin.”

End.