Game of Thrones: Equestria

After taking some much needed relaxation time, Beorn was finally able to rest in a comfortable bed with his herd adding some extra warmth.

The young king awoke to the first glimpse of sunrise and was preparing to get out of bed until he felt something big and soft press against his muzzle.

"Hm?" He muffled as his eyes adjusted to see Crysta snuggling his head into her chest. This made him smile for obvious reasons and his morning surprise would continue when he felt his hands groping two of his other herdmates.

"Mmm Beorn, be more gentle please?" Lithos hummed after she felt his hand involuntarily squeeze her butt while Azurys clinged to his other arm for warmth.

"Uh girls? I really need to get up." Beorn muffled under Crystas chest as she squeezed him in more.

"Mm just five more minutes..." The changeling princess hummed before the curtains were suddenly flung open.

"Rise and shine young master! It's a beautiful day!" A maid beamed as the group moaned in frustration.

"Why are you so loud in the morning?" Deshi whined while rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

"Forgive me young miss but it's not every day that a king turns 17!"

Beorn carefully set Crysta to the side as he sat up and realized.

"That's right, it's my birthday..."

"Oh? Well then happy birthday big boy~." Ruko hummed as she leaned on him from behind to kiss his cheek with her tail wagging.

“Yeah…happy birthday to me,” Beorn said sadly, making his harem look at each other.

“What’s wrong, Beorn?” Crysta asked.

“This…is the first birthday my father won’t be a part of.”

Beorn’s harem frowned at the young king as they all gathered around him on the bed.

“I’m sorry for your loss, Beorn,” Ruko said.

“Y’know, you didn’t really tell us about your dad,” Azurys pointed out.

“We’ve heard a little about him through stories back in our pack and what we heard from anyone around, but not him personally. What was he like?”

Beorn thought about how to answer as so many memories of him and his father came flooding back, then at last he smiled and said.

"He was the best dad ever."

As the young king stretched and got out of bed, he went to freshen up in the bathroom with his only difficulty being his left eyepatch since he had to remove it each time he had to bathe.

"Grrr...stupid eyepatch."

"I think it looks good on you." Lithos smiled while pulling him to the tub.

“Damn thing is a nuisance,” Beorn grumbled as his mates began washing him and themselves.

“Well look on the bright side, at least you got your dad’s sword back,” Lithos pointed out.

“I guess, but now my balance is off. I tried practicing the other day, I lost count how many times my blind spot made me get hit from the shield maids who practiced with me.”

“Aren’t there some old veterans who also lost an eye but kept fighting in the Great War?” Deshi asked as Azurys washed her hair.

“Some of them, yes, perhaps I’ll ask them for advice,” Beorn hummed.

“Something else, you should know, I heard some of the stags say that your lost eye is the same as that god your people worship,” Crysta said as she washed his backs

“What was his name again? Eden?”

SPANK!

"Eek!"

"It's Odin. Don't forget it."

The girls laughed as Crysta rubbed her flank. By the time they finally cleaned up, the whole castle was abuzz with excitement as the entire staff were setting up decorations.

"Wow. Busy morning." Beorn said when he was called to the banquet hall.

The group entered the hall where there were tables, balloons, streamers, and a big banner that said Happy Birthday Beorn! Beorn looked to see both his mothers and Luta and Thora giving directions to the staff so that everything was going to plan. Despite their very pregnant bellies, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, and Luta acted as if they weren’t pregnant at all. Rainbow’s belly was bigger than the other two since she was carrying twins, and it made Beorn smile and look forward to the day he meets his baby siblings.

“Hi moms,” Beorn said.

“There’s the birthday boy!” Rainbow said cheerfully as she hugged him.

“How’s my boy?”

“I’m good mom, how’re you?”

“Planning your birthday, how do you think?” Rainbow smirked.

Thump! Bump!

“Whoa easy kiddos!” She said as the twins began to kick.

“The little sugars are sure lively this mornin’. Ain’t that right my little darlin’?” Applejack cooed to her little one as she rubbed her belly.

“You got that right, remind me to give Lock an earful for planting this bundle of joy in me,” Luta said as she glanced down at her belly. “I’m just glad I finally get to be a mom.”

“Now eat up mister, you got a big day today.” Applejack ordered as a small buffet was laid out.

“Yes ma.”

The second Beorn sat down, many were shocked at how fast the plates piled up and how many tankards of cider he drank as he seemed to have an increase in his appetite.

“Good gracious! How is he able to pack that all in?” A chef asked as Beorn gobbled up an entire stack of waffles.

BELCH!!

“Oops. Excuse me.”

“Charming…” a butler grimaced while handing him a napkin to wipe his face.

“Whoo! That hit the spot!”

“That’s my boy!” Rainbow boasted, appearing to be proud of her son's lack of table manners while Applejack just rolled her eyes.

“So what now?”

“Now, you go spend the day with your girls. Momma Dash and I need to meet with Aunt Pinkie to plan your party.”

“Can do, ma,” Beorn nodded and stood up.

The girls and Beorn exited the hall and walked towards the forge so Beorn could pick up his sword and hammer. He had asked to get them tuned up for the upcoming mission and Smith was more than happy to oblige. When they got to the forge, they spotted Smith tinkering with a strange-looking device.

“Smith?” Beorn said.

“Ah! Just the youngn’ I wanted to see!” Smith grinned a toothy smile.

“Your sword and hammer are all nice and tuned up, and I just finished your uncle’s birthday present for ya! Give me your right arm.”

Beorn did as instructed and held his arm out. Smith then latched on the strange device on Beorn’s forearm as Beorn gazed at it curiously.

“What is it?” Beorn wondered.

“Give your arm a flick!” Smith said.

Beorn shrugged and flicked his arm. Suddenly, the device extended on both ends and curved out like a fan to open up into a finely crafted shield.

“Woah!”

“Ha! It works! That there shield was forged by Valyrian steel, just like your hammer, and can fold up on your arm in that little gauntlet! I’ve already got several orders to make just like it!”

The shield then fanned itself shut the moment Beorn relaxed his arm with a very satisfied grin.

“Amazing work as always, so how’s my sword?”

“Oh that. Well the thing is, the Elders took it and said they wanted to see you.”

“The elders took Kingslayer?” Beorn wondered before one of the workers yelped from the furnace blasting smoke in face.

“Hey watch it you idiots! You wanna burn the castle down?!? Gotta go, sire.”

“Good luck.”

Beorn was given his hammer back as he sheathed it behind his back.

“That Smith knows how to handle a hammer,” Thunderbolt said.

“Of course, he always takes pride in his work,” Beorn nodded as he glanced down at his new shield.

“I should call uncle to thank him for this later.”

Along the way, the young king received words of praise and congratulatory statements for his birthday. It warmed Beorn’s heart to see so many be happy so see him and wondered how the day would get any better. Beorn then noticed an old friend of his father’s, Surt, and he was walking with Upper Crust as she held his arm lovingly.

“Young master, hello! Happy birthday,” Surt said.

“Hello Surt, I see you two are finally going steady,” Beorn said.

“I’m happy for you two.”

“Thank you, my lord, I’m just glad my old flame didn’t snuff out in the end.”

“In more ways than one,” Upper Crust giggled.

“And young master Beorn, I hope you can forgive me for all the terrible things I may have said about you and your family. I was so very wrong, in the end, I see that now.”

“Already forgiven, ma’am,” Beorn smiled.

“So kind-hearted,” Upper Crust smiled.

“Top Notch is blessed to have a friend like you, and a new father figure like Surt.”

“You flatter me, my dear,” Surt smiled.

“Oh, but I mean it, you are the perfect role model for Top.” Upper Crust’s smile seemed to widen for some reason.

“In fact, I believe I should inform you about something I recently found out.”

“What’s that?”

Upper Crust looked up at her stag as she placed a hand on her stomach.

“I’m…I’m pregnant, Surt.”

Surt suddenly felt his knees grow weak as he looked at Upper Crust with a shocked expression.

“You mean…you’re carrying my…”

“Yes!!” Upper Crust squealed as he leaned his head on her belly and both were shedding tears of joy in seconds.

“Odin be praised…I am to be a father!”

The group and the ponies who happened to be in the area gave a round of applause for the couple while Beorn and his herd bid them good luck and continued towards the elders.

“Top is in for a surprise.” Azurys smirked, looking back at the couple.

“Where is he anyway?” Crysta inquired.

“Meh, on a date. Best leave him be.” Beorn said with a wave of his hand.

They all finally arrived at the small council room where the elders had their meetings and Beorn found them sitting at a table with the sword in the middle. Thorodd and the other elders were chanting northern speech as runes were engraved into the blade. The sword gave off a dim glow as Beorn was finally noticed.

“Hail, King Beorn, son of Wulfric,” Thorodd bowed.

“Hail,” the other elders said and bowed.

“Hello, Elder Thorodd, what is all this?”

“A ritual for your family sword, my lord, something that will greatly benefit you.”

“How so?”

“When the sword was dishonorably taken, we all anticipated its return and decided to do extensive research on the old runic magic. As you can see, we are in the midst of ensuring that only those of your bloodline may grasp the sword. Otherwise they shall suffer a great curse, Thor allow it.”

“What’s left to do?” Beorn asked.

“Oh it’s simple, we just require a drop of your blood.”

The thought of using blood for such a spell made the young king nervous when to his surprise he was given a needle instead of a dagger.

“No fear. Just a prick of the finger and a few drops.”

“Whew, that’s a relief.” Beorn sighed as he took the needle.

As the elders began their chant, Thorodd began painting the runes along the blade as Beorn pricked his finger, allowing a few drops of blood to drip onto the sword. The runes then turned a bloody red as the sword was lifted into the air by a mysterious force.

The girls took cover behind their mate as bright flashes lit up the room until Kingslayer gently floated back to the hand of its master with magic runes now etched into its side.

“Incredible…” the young king said as he watched the runes glow with power.

“There is more my king. The sword will come to you even if it is thrown into the deepest chasm and it will help channel the great power that now courses through your veins.”

Just when Beorn thought his day couldn’t get any better, one of the elders walked to a corner of the room where a mysterious object was covered in sheets.

“This was a gift your father meant to give you.”

The second the sheets were taken off, the group found themselves staring at what only could be described as a mythic suit of armor.

“Forged by your fathers hands, every plate, every link in the chainmail made from the armor of fallen comrades so that when you fight, the clans fight with you.”

“Woah…” Beorn was in awe of the armor and felt as though it was staring back at him. Beorn’s mates then took turns taking a piece of the armor and strapping it on him. Once done, Wulfric’s cloak was the last piece of the set and was draped over his shoulders. Beorn then took Kingslayer in his right hand and Thunderbolt in his left and turned to face the crowd.

“Now that’s a king!” Crysta chirped excitedly.

“Truly an image of a worthy ruler,” Elder Thorodd nodded.

“Thank you, thank you all,” Beorn smiled.

“Pardon me, Elder Thorodd, but I’d like to ask you something.”

“By all means, ask away.”

“There are many of you elders who are without an eye, such as myself. Some of you I was told had even lived long enough to serve with my grandfather. Father also told me of some of your exploits in battle with only the use of one eye.” Beorn turned to a few elders, Elders Dan, Frodi, and Hauk.

“I need to be better attuned to my current predicament, especially in the coming battles if I am to wield both Kingslayer and Thunderbolt at the same time. Can you please arrange some lessons for me?”

"Are you sure you want that boy?" Elder Hauk asked with his voice sounding deep and intimidating.

"Even though it is our duty to guide future kings, our training is not to be taken lightly. Not even your father came out unscathed."

Beorn gulped at the elders' warning but was still sure of his decision and nodded yes to Hauks question.

"Very well but for now, enjoy your special day." Hauk smiled as the group gave a respective bow before leaving.

"So young and so eager to prove his strength." Thorodd sighed.

"Though he and his sister have proven worthy successors, I still wish Wulfric was alive…" Frodi added.

With his gifts received from his friends and family, Beorn headed back to his room to rest and remove his armor before the main event.

"Father…" He sighed as he looked at the helmet. A single tear fell onto the helm as the memories of all the birthdays he had with his father came back to him.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

A knock on the door startled Beorn, making him wipe the tears from his eyes.

"Uh, Come in!" Beorn said as he stood in front of the door and was given a huge surprise after it flung open.

"HI BABY BROTHER!!"

"SIS?!?"

Apple Jewel jumped on Beorn, knocking him onto the floor as she peppered his cheek with loving kisses and nuzzles.

“I missed you so much!” Jewel squealed as tears threatened to drip from her eyes.

“I-I missed you too!” Beorn said as she hugged her back.

“What are you doing back?! I thought you were still with Aunt Twilight in the Midnight Palace?”

“Did you honestly think I’d miss the most special day of the year? I may be a year older than you, but we still share the same birthday!” Jewel giggled.

“Oh, that’s right, we do,” Beorn chuckled sheepishly.

“Jeeze, you’re so out of it, you let that slip your mind?”

“I’ve been busy, alright?” Beorn sighed as she got off him.

“Sure you have, with three new girls to your harem, I take it?”

“How did you-?”

“Ma told me everything, I’m happy you found more girls to share your heart with.”

Beorn sighed with relief that his sister understood his situation. Jewel then reached up to cup his cheek and frowned at his patched eye.

“Was it worth it?” She asked.

“Very,” Beorn nodded and glanced at Kingslayer.

“You got it back…” Jewel whimpered. She approached the sword and ran her hand along the handle.

“Hello daddy, welcome home…”

“I know,” Beorn said as he hugged his crying sister from behind.

“I miss him too.”

“Jewel?”

From the doorway, a head peeked in and revealed a young-looking female gargoyle. She had reddish-brown fur and light pink webbed wings. She looked to be around Jewel’s age and wore casual-like clothes.

“Oh! Scoli! Come in and meet my brother!” Jewel grinned.

“Who’s this?” Beorn wondered as the young gargoyle walked in and bowed respectfully to him.

“It is an honor to meet you, Beorn The Behemoth.” She spoke in a calm, dignified manner with a warm smile.

“Your sister has told me much about you.”

“I’m sure. How did you meet my sister?” Beorn asked after noticing his sister take her hand.

“My uncle Vorak introduced us, she’s been a good friend to me.”

“I see, and how is your uncle and aunt?”

Scoli frowned and exhaled sadly. “According to the medical staff, my uncle was stabbed in a vital area and has been surrounded in a field of healing magic. It also doesn’t help that he’s old, so the recovery will take time. As for my aunt, she’s in what you would call a state of shock.”

“Shock? How?” Beorn wondered.

“The magic that was stolen from her by Tirek had been replenished, thanks to Auntie Twilight’s help,” Jewel explained.

“But I guess you could say that Queen Haydon can’t get over the fact that Tirek was a lost cause from the start. Running off on his own when he first came to Equestria was one thing, but going as far to attack her when they tried to help him? Put yourself in her hooves, how would you feel if your son betrayed you not once but twice? Twilight has been giving her therapy ever since, before I came home.”

Beorn let out a soft growl as the runes on Kingslayer began to glow before calming down and offering them to join him on his way to the gardens. The three chatted as they walked through the halls with most of the guards and servants looking at Scoli as she passed by.

“Sorry for all the stares,” Jewel sighed as they passed two maids giggling to themselves.

“It’s fine, most have never seen a gargoyle up close,” Scoli replied as they came into the gardens.

“MA I’M HOME!!”

“Oh my stars! Jewel!!” Applejack squealed as she met her daughter halfway for a hug.

“Ohhh I missed you!”

“You too ma.”

“Let me look at you,” Applejack said as she looked her daughter up and down.

“Yep, still pretty as a star and cute as a button!”

“Ma…” Jewel rolled her eyes with a smile.

“Nice to see you again, squirt,” Rainbow Dash said as she hugged Jewel.

“How’s your aunt egghead?”

“Managing, she’s back in the Midnight Palace.”

“That sounds like her to stay behind.” The two mares turned their attention to Scoli.

“And who’s this?”

“This is my new friend, Scoli!” Jewel said enthusiastically.

“I met her about a week ago and she’s been a dear friend already! And get this, ma, her favorite treat is apple fritter, after I made her one!”

“Really now?” Applejack curled a brow at her daughter after hearing how close they were before several servants came up to them with an elaborate cake.

“Congratulations your majesties! Happy Birthday!!” They cheered in unison with a round of applause.

“Wait, how do you have the same birthday? You’re both a year apart,” Scoli inquired as they set the cake down.

“Oh right, you don’t know the story. See when I had just turned one, my baby brother was born so rather than wait one year for each birthday, we share the same one,” Jewel explained just before confetti came raining down from the sky.

“SURPRISE!!”

“Aunt Pinkie!”

“Happy birthday, little Beorn and little Jewel!” The party mare squealed.

“Look at you both! 17 years and 18 years! You’re an adult mare now, Jewel! And you’ve got one more year to go, Beorn!”

“Thank you, Aunt Pinkie.”

“I just hope my little cupcake is doing well,” Pinkie smiled sadly.

“I heard about what happened to poor Imperius, you think he’s eating enough sweets?”

“I’m sure he’s fine,” Beorn nodded.

“My uncle is on the job along with Aunt Rarity, there’s no doubt he’ll be back before my wedding.”

“I sure hope so,” Pinkie said as she and Cheese Sandwich faced the rest of the crowd.

“Let’s party, everypony!”

Music and laughter soon filled the entire garden as Pinkie and Cheese oversaw the whole event. Top Notch arrived later with Estrid to hear the big news his mother had revealed earlier that morning to Surt.

“I’m gonna be a big brother?!” He shouted looking surprised.

“Isn’t it wonderful! That makes your little girlfriend an honorary big sister!!”

Estrid blushed after hearing such a statement while she held her coltfriend’s hand and urged him to dance with her. While the party was festive, some of the Canterlot nobility still found it to be too noisy for their liking.

“Good grief, it’s like a circus now.” Gold Rush complained as a few foals ran past her.

“Oh come now Gold Rush, you should loosen up every once in a while.” Fancy Pants replied while sipping some champagne.

“But…I must say it is a bit dull despite the atmosphere.”

“What do you mean?”

“There’s only one soul who could not make it to this special day…”

The nobles stayed quiet as they knew Fancy Pants was talking about Wulfric.

“…Did you know, he once brought a whole basket of fish he caught himself to their fifth birthday party?” Fancy asked as some of them began to smile.

“I was there. He was covered in mud and smelled like he just walked out of the fish market!” Madam Gold Rush replied as they began to laugh.

“Oh let’s not forget the time the children caught their parents wrestling in the broom closet!”

The laughter seemed to grow louder and more cheerful as they looked at the two young rulers enjoying the feast with their family.

“Stand aside! Make way!!” A loud voice shouted over the music.

The music soon came to a halt as the attention was turned to the entrance. Azurys nearly fell out of her seat as a very pudgy noble waltzed in, acting like he owned the whole room. Beside him were some of his personal guards as they shoved aside any pony or caribou who got in his way.

“N-No way! Why is he here?!” Azurys asked, hiding behind the table.

“You know this guy?” Beorn asked.

“Th-That’s the stallion my good-for-nothing dad tried to set me up with! He’s from Blueblood’s faction, and now he just decides to show himself?!”

“Attention! You gang of miscreants! I am Lord High Price, and I have come to reclaim what is owed to me! I demand that the little Diamond Dog girl named Azurys, daughter of Alpha Diamond Hyde, come forth this instant!” The stallion demanded in an overly posh tone.

“Mind your manners my lord.” Celestia replied, with an annoyed stare at the noble.

“Ah, Princess Celestia. Congratulations on your pregnancy.” High Price smiled as he bowed to Celestia.

“You have some nerve dropping in unannounced and at a royal’s birthday party no less. Be thankful my husband is away on business.”

“Oh yes. The King in The North is seventeen today and his half-breed sister is eighteen.”

“Mind your tongue, fat man…” Beorn growled as he slowly rose from his seat and walked towards the fat noble with a tankard of cider in hand.

“Or I might just have to rip it out.”

“Such sickening ferocity,” High Price scoffed.

“I still wonder why their majesties tolerate you savages.”

“Be silent, you cur!” Luna snapped.

“I shall not! But that is beside the point, I came here for one thing only, and I brought along a little incentive.”

High Price snapped his fingers and there were sounds of heavy footsteps coming from the doorway again. Azurys, Lithos, Ruko and Deshi immediately began sniffing the air and their fur stood on end.

“Oh no…” Lithos muttered.

“It can’t be!” Ruko said nervously.

“What’s wrong?” Jewel said with concern.

“AZURYS!!”

The doors slammed open again and a horde of Diamond Dogs came storming in, all armed with crude blades and blunt weapons. In the front of the pack was a large and bulky-looking Diamond Dog. He had scars all over his body and his fur was bushy and dark grey with a lighter grey underbelly. His fangs were razor sharp and he towered over all the ponies and stags in the room. The dogs all growled at any who looked at them as the lead dog glared at the four diamond dog girls hiding behind the table.

“There you are!” The lead dog barked.

“D-D-Daddy?!” Azurys yelped.

“I’ve been looking all over Equestria for you. You are to come home-NOW!!”

“She’s not going anywhere.” Beorn declared before chugging down his cider.

“Is that so? And who are you to say that Little Man?”

“I am Beorn, Son of Wulfric and you two just crashed mine and my sister’s birthday party.”

“Well just give me my property and we’ll be on our way.” High Price scoffed once more before he was suddenly kicked in the gut and hoisted up by his collar.

“Call her that again and I’ll roast you for my wolves.” Beorn hissed before glaring back at Azurys’ father.

“It’s Diamond Hyde right? I thought sending you your lackey’s head made the message clear. Your daughter is no longer bound to you.”

“Is that right little man?” Diamond Hyde smirked at the young stag with his fangs bared.

“It is. Got a problem with that?”

The two seemed like they were about to come to blows when a second voice shouted from the crowd.

“Brother!! That’s enough!!”

“Daddy!!” Lithos, Ruko and Deshi shouted in unison when a second diamond dog marched into view.

“Well well, my big brother, Rocky.”

This dog was smaller than Diamond Hyde, with dark brown fur and a lighter toned underbelly. Unlike the rest of the dogs, he had a sort of refined look about him and a more calm yet stern expression. His attire consisted of studded leather armor and a curved sword at his hip.

“Hello my beautiful daughters,” the dog smiled happily at the other three diamond dog girls.

“I’ll be with you three in a moment, daddy needs to take care of your brute of an uncle.”

“I thought I told you to stay out of this?! You dare go against your Alpha’s orders?!” Hyde growled.

“At first, I shamefully admit that I had no choice but to let you do as you pleased…since you killed Father and became the new Alpha. But now my own daughters are involved in this affair, so I can no longer stand by! Not to mention, I personally have had enough of your tyrannical rule of the pack! We had our flaws, true, but we weren’t just a bunch of mindless murderers!” Rocky lectured.

“Those who die are weak and don’t deserve to be part of the pack!” Hyde barked.

“Besides, Lord High Price promised us a treasure for a king or two once I hand over my good-for-nothing daughter!”

“Hold up!” Rainbow Dash shouted with one hand rubbing her forehead.

“You mean to tell us you basically sold your daughter to some rich fat guy for some quick cash?”

“And I would’ve gotten more if her virginity was still intact.” Hyde huffed with a disapproving glare at his daughter.

“I bet no male is willing to touch you after that…”

“On the contrary. Azurys, could you come here real quick?” Beorn called to his herdmate who seemed hesitant to approach before standing next to him.

“Yes? What is-MMPH!!” Azurys yelped as Beorn dipped her over with a passionate kiss that stunned the crowd.

“MMM! Mmmm~...hehehee!” The wolf girl giggled, her fear of her father seeming to have vanished.

“And I do more than that. Show him babe.”

“Show me what?” Hyde growled in anger when in a bold display, Azurys lifted the back end of her skirt to reveal her well toned butt and panties but also the bite mark now decorating it.

“You…YOU MARKED HER?!?”

“All of them actually.” Beorn boasted as he winked to the three girls.

“Looking forward to our marriage, by the way.”

“Hyde!” High Price growled.

“Not only did you fail to secure my personal wench, but you failed to get her back before her virtue was taken and she was marked?! This is not what we agreed on, and your reward is dwindling by the minute!”

“Damnit fine! Dogs! Go get my daughter back now!” Hyde ordered.

Before the dogs and surrounding ponies and stags engaged in battle, Azurys howled as loud as she could at her father. For Beorn, it was a confusing gesture that seemed out of place for Azurys. However, her cousins and the rest of the pack stared at Azurys as if she had grown a second head.

“Azurys! What have you done?!” Rocky said.

“The howl has been called, there’s no stopping it now,” Azurys said.

“You’re more of a dumb bitch than I gave you credit for,” Hyde snarled.

“What just happened?” Beorn wondered and felt Ruko tug at his shirt.

“She howled at uncle Hyde, it’s something we Diamond Dogs do when we want to challenge each other to a duel.”

“A duel?! But Azurys can’t fight her dad!”

“Not unless I choose a champion as the Alpha’s daughter,” Azurys said.

“And I choose you, Beorn, please?”

“Gladly.” Beorn grinned before giving her another kiss.

“To be continued~.”

“Hee hee!”

“You’re dead, little man…”

“KICK HIS FLANK SWEETIE!!” Rainbow Dash cheered as he began to stretch.

“So. Who goes first?”

“This will be a one-on-one, boy,” Hyde smirked as he cracked his knuckles.

“Loser either yields, or dies.”

“Fine by me,” Beorn nodded.

Wasting no time, the two combatants changed at each other and locked hands with one another. Hyde was surprised at how strong Beorn was as the two dug their feet into the floor below them. The crowd cheered for Beorn as the dogs barked for their Alpha. Hyde then opened his jaw and attempted to bite Beorn’s head off. Beorn jerked his head to the side and leaned his head back to head butt Hyde in the snout. Hyde grunted in pain as the two were shoved away from each other and engaged once more with their fists. Beorn blocked Hyde’s jabs and swipes of his claws and landed body blows on Hyde. His training with Lock kicked in as he raised his fists up in front of him as he weaved his body from side to side and hopped in place on the tips of his hooves.

“What’s that stance?” A stag wondered.

“I believe Sir Lockdrom mentioned once, he called it kickboxing?” A stallion said.

“Grrr hold still ya little shrimp!!” Hyde snarled as he lunged forward only to be met by a flying knee as Beorn leaped at him.

“Ooh! Right in the snout!” Top Notch cringed before Hyde managed to tackle Beorn to the ground.

“Now I’ll crush you!!” He grinned as he began to strangle the young stag.

“Ack!! I…don’t…THINK SO!!” Beorn roared as he trapped Hyde in an armbar.

“THAT’S IT SUGARCUBE!! HANG ON TIGHT!!” Applejack cheered as she watched them thrash around on the floor.

Beorn held on for dear life as Hyde thrashed about, trying to shake him off with his stamina gradually decreasing.

“Give up?”

“Grrr! NEVER!!”

“You asked for it!!”

SNAP!!

Hyde suddenly howled in pain as he felt his arm being pulled out of its socket before Beorn released him to deliver a punishing blow to the chest that completely knocked the wind out of him.

“Your daughter is mine. Threaten her again and I will not hesitate to finish you off…”

“Hah!” Hyde managed to laugh through his pain.

“You may have beaten me, but that don’t mean shit! Ain’t that right, High Price?!”

“Quite,” High Price grinned as he snapped his fingers. A servant of his came up and handed him a pouch and a piece of paper.

“I hold here in my hands a pouch of the finest jewels in my private collection and a deed signed by Lord Blueblood himself! For any of you dogs still loyal to Hyde, these items shall be yours if you kill that brat and get me my wench!”

The group of dogs all grinned maliciously and eyed Beorn. Just when they were about to pounce on him, Rocky Longfang quickly stepped forward and shielded Beorn.

“For shame! All of you! Letting your greed make you forget our traditions! Is this how you treat your new Alpha’s mate?!”

“Hold up, new Alpha?” Beorn asked, glancing at Azurys.

“It is our most sacred law. He who defeats the Alpha, becomes the Alpha.”

The pack slowly began to back off while High Price stood there feeling nervous and began to sweat. Hyde on the other hand was seized by two larger dogs from his brother's pack and was dragged before Beorn despite his injured arm.

“Your orders, Alpha?” One asked while pointing a spear to Hyde’s neck.

“Whoa hold up, I never agreed to be the boss.” Beorn protested

“Nevertheless, you accepted the challenge. This whole pack is loyal to you now.” Longfang said while Hyde grunted from the pain.

“Uhh…mom, help me out?”

“You’re on your own, Beorn.” Rainbow said casually while eating some cake.

Beorn was still processing what had just happened and tried to think of what to do next, then he noticed the deed High Price had mentioned and snatched it from his hand along with the bag of gems.

“Give those back at once!” The noble shouted as Beorn read the deed.

“These are mining rights to the caves beneath Canterlot. Blueblood doesn’t have the authority to do this.” Beorn said aloud before tossing the parchment into a nearby brazier.

“NOO!! My deed-”

“Is worthless! And as for these gems..” the young king reached inside to pull out a sparkling diamond that caught the crowd’s attention before he took Azury’s hand and held it above her ring finger.

“I think they’ll make great wedding gifts for my herd.”

“Oh Beorn!” Azurys chirped as she kissed him.

“And another thing, I don’t wanna be the Alpha of your pack,” Beorn stated.

“You don’t? But you won against my brother,” Rocky said.

“True, but I already have enough responsibility as King of the North as it is. Besides, I was only the chosen champion for this bout. It’s Azurys here who made the challenge so she gets to be the new Alpha, right?”

“Well…technically that is accurate, but…” Rocky tried to say.

“Is there a problem?” Beorn wondered.

“Of course there’s a problem! The pack hasn’t had a female Alpha in generations!” Hyde barked.

“You think you can just up and make my daughter Alpha like that?! Good fuckin’ luck trying to convince the rest of the pack back home! It’ll be a snowball’s chance in Tartarus before the Diamond Dogs accept a female as an Alpha!”

“Well as her future husband, I support her. Something YOU should’ve done as a father!! And if any of you mutts feel like it, I’ll take on anyone else who objects!!”

In that moment, Beorn’s eyes flashed their signature red glare that made the entire pack instantly stand down.

“I thought so…now, anyone who is still loyal to this douchebag can clear out along with that fat prick! We’re trying to have a party here!!”

High Price ran out as fast as his hooves could carry him while Hyde was escorted out by a few loyal dogs, leaving the rest of the pack to join in the celebration after things quieted down and the music resumed.

“Um Beorn? You mind if we catch up with daddy for a bit?” Ruko asked as her father hugged her two sisters.

“I don’t mind, I need a break. Crysta?”

“Yes my love? WHOA!” Crysta yelped as she was hoisted over his shoulder.

“You’re coming with me.”

While Beorn left to relax, Apple Jewel took the opportunity to get to know her future in-laws and tell embarrassing secrets about her little brother.

“So whenever Beorn pouted about not getting his way, he’d throw a fit and cry with snot running down his muzzle,” Jewel giggled, causing the wolf girls to laugh.

“What made him calm down?” Lithos wondered.

“My Auntie Luta and Auntie Thora had to bring him his favorite toy sword and he’d vent his frustrations by challenging them to a duel. They even called him bear-bear the whole time.”

“Pfft, hahahaha! Bear-bear? Oh, I’m definitely going to remember that!” Deshi laughed.

“Enjoying yourselves?”

The girls looked to see the doe’s in question, Thora and Luta, walk up to them as Luta used Thora’s shoulder for support.

“Hi aunties!” Jewel waved.

“Hello, our little gem,” Thora smiled.

“Enjoying the party?” Luta asked.

“You bet! Beorn kicked that mean dog’s sorry flank!” Jewel then looked at Luta’s belly and smiled widely.

“Can I?”

“By all means,” Luta nodded. Jewel placed her hand on Luta’s belly and smiled as she leaned her ear against the large bump.

“I can’t wait to meet you too, little cousin,” Jewel whispered.

“Cousin? I thought there’s another sibling growing in there?” Ruko wondered curiously.

“Not exactly. This boy is my uncle’s.”

“Really?” Lithos wondered before her ear twitched.

“Ohh~.”

“Crysta?”

“Yup. Now where were we?”

As the evening went on, the girls returned to their respective bed chambers while Beorn wandered the halls feeling refreshed. As he stood in front of the window overlooking the courtyard, he was surprised to see Princess Luna with her night guard, placing lavender flowers in the halls.

“Beorn? It’s late, you should be in bed.”

“Sorry Aunt Luna, Tomorrow’s trip has me nervous.”

“I understand, but this is just one of the many things a king must do in order to ensure peace for his people,” Luna advised.

“I know…how did dad do it?” Beorn wondered.

“To be honest, I still wonder that myself,” Luna hummed as she placed a hand on her very bloated belly.

“When your father was crowned king, I got the distinction that he came to realize that there was a big difference between being a chief of a clan and a king of an entire nation. He not only had to look after his own clan but the other four clans that now looked to him for leadership. Marshall often received letters from Wulfric of the many trust issues he had to repair that Dainn ruined.”

“How did he get through it all?”

“Your mothers,” Luna smiled.

“He had your mothers to help keep his head held high and to keep pushing forward for a better tomorrow for the north. Over 15 years later, he was able to reclaim the Northern Clans’ lost honor. You may feel some pressure from being a king, especially since you’re still so young, but that just leaves a lifetime’s worth of experience for you. Not to mention that you have five wonderful young women who love you for who you are.”

“That’s not the only reason they love me.” Beorn joked with a smug grin while Luna rolled her eyes.

“My point is, don’t be afraid. If you’re ever in doubt, you can always turn to us for help, you are practically family after all.”

“Thanks Aunt Luna.” Beorn smiled as he gave her a hug and headed to bed where his herd was waiting for him.

“Enjoy your walk?” Azurys said.

“Yeah, just wanted to clear my head,” Beorn said as he climbed into bed and the girls all crowded around him.

“How long will you be gone?” Ruko wondered.

“About a week, two at the most.”

“That’s a long time,” Lithos said.

“Not as long as you think, I’ll be back as soon as I can,” Beorn said as he held them all close.

“I love you, girls.”

“We love you too, Beorn, happy birthday,” Crysta smiled and they all drifted off to sleep.

The Next Morning

The sun had just risen and the royals and the royals, Beorn’s herd, and some of the elders were standing at the gates to see Beorn and Hreidar off. Both bucks were about to board a carriage with enough provisions for the both of them in the back. Beorn had on his new armor and both his weapons were strapped to his back. Hreidar wore plated armor with a metal pauldron on his right shoulder and had his two hatchets on his belt.

“Remember, boy, keep your wits about you,” Gregor informed Hreidar as Ragna stood by him.

“I will, Sir Gregor,” Hreidar nodded.

“Good luck, my friend,” Top Notch nodded.

“Thanks, I’ll certainly need it,” Beorn nodded.

“Beorn, I should tell you that the Kingdom of Thicket has not received a visit from outsiders in hundreds of years. You must be on your utmost behavior when addressing King Aspen, or he will quite literally have you thrown out,” Celestia advised.

“And be careful, The kingdom of Thicket resides in an enchanted part of the Everfree Forest. Eyes will be watching you from the shadows.” Luna cautioned.

“And don’t uproot the trees, they’re sensitive about that.” Rainbow Dash added as her future daughter-in-laws came walking out with brand new wedding rings, each with a different jewel.

“Shame I can’t take you all with me.” Beorn said as Azurys clinged to his arm.

“If that’d happen, you’d be distracted the whole trip.”

“Fair enough.”

As the boys boarded the carriage, Rainbow and Applejack were already starting to shed tears while holding each other’s hands.

“Applejack...we just got him back…”

“I know Dash.”

The carriage soon pulled out with everyone waving goodbye as it passed through the city with most of the citizens dropping petals from rooftops and young pegasi passing by.

“Good luck King Beorn!”

“Allfather guide you!”

“Please return to us safely!”

Despite the citizens' praises, Beorn was sweating nervously while he did his best to smile and wave until they were out of the city. Once they were through the gates, he let out a long sigh of relief while slumping in his chair.

“Nervous already?” Hreidar teased.

“Of course I am!! I’m a soldier, not a diplomat!”

“You’ll be fine.”

“But what if I mess up? What if King Aspen refuses to let us in just because we’re outsiders?!? WHAT IF-MMF?!” Beorn was cut mid sentence when Hreidar stuffed a pastry into his mouth.

“Here, eat a cinnamon bun and shut it.” He said before reaching into a paper bag for another one.

“Mmm…”

“See? You’ll be fine.”

“Mmf-gulp!-I’m surprised the elders chose you to be my bodyguard on this.”

“Well your girls insisted since they can’t risk the shield maids going above their duties to help you on your visit.”

“Hey! I may be a horndog but I would never cheat on them!” Beorn said with his arms crossed while Hreidar took a bite of his pastry.

“Soo…you admit you’re a horndog?”

“S-SHUT UP!!”

“Heh.”

The carriage ride went on as the boys conversed with each other about their travels throughout the lands. Hreidar spoke about his travels with his mother while Beorn talked about the many battles he had been through in the war.

“So the undead really are that dangerous, huh?” Hreidar asked as he ate another bun.

“Very, I was told by Smith that he’s made almost enough Valyrian wares for the whole Equestrian army. I just hope he makes enough for the coming battles,” Beorn said.

“I’m sure it’ll all work out, it has to for the sake of peace.” Hreidar then looked serious for a moment.

“Beorn, can I ask you for a favor?”

“Sure, what’s up?”

“Well…I’d like you to speak with the elders about reestablishing the Stonehoof Clan.” Beorn paused from grabbing another pastry and glanced up at Hreidar.

“I know, I know, it’s a crazy idea. But I meant what I said back on Mt. Everhoof. The Stonehoof name was dragged through the mud, no thanks to Dainn. I want to help start the clan anew so Dainn’s sins can be forgotten through history. So I’d like your help with convincing the elders, think you can do that?”

Beorn leaned back in his chair with his arms crossed, what his friend asked was not only a reckless request but a dangerous one since there were many surviving clan members like Uba who wanted to see the Stonehoof regime rise again.

“Hmm…the elders will not take kindly to this and many will see it as a power grab since you are the clan’s chieftain by blood. It will not be easy.”

“So…you can’t do it?”

“I didn’t say that.”

The light in the carriage suddenly grew dim and the atmosphere felt tense as the both of them looked outside to see a thick forest and a dense canopy blocking most of the sunlight.

“We’re here.” Beorn said as he ordered the carriage to stop.

“Something wrong my lord?” The driver asked as he stepped out to get a better look.

“This forest is old…very old.” Beorn said as he looked around and could swear he saw movement in the treetops.

“We travel by day and rest at night. Tell the men to stay close at all times.”

“Yes sire!”

The boys exited the carriage with a small group of Vikings following them close behind. Each of them were on edge and they felt as though there were eyes all around them.

“Stay close, young master!” A stag advised.

“They say that a great sorcerer lives in these woods. A deer wizard.”

“Deer wizard?” Hreidar asked.

“Aye, one of terrible power. All who look upon him fall under his spell…and are never seen again.”

Beorn…Warborn…

Beorn looked around after hearing a voice in his head, but saw nothing but trees all around him and his group.

“Beorn?” Hreidar said, as Beorn went to take his hammer.

“I think…we’re being watched,” Beorn said quietly while keeping an eye on the trees.

“We are? Hmph, well I’ll tell you this much, here’s one stag this wizard won’t ensnare so easily. I have the eyes of a hawk and the ears of a fox-oh!”

Out of nowhere, as Hreidar turned his head back around, he was met with a couple arrow heads aimed straight for his face. The whole group soon found themselves completely surrounded by hooded archers, all now frozen in place at the mercy of their surprising ambushers. One of the hooded ones stepped forward and pulled off his hood to reveal a more slender-looking deer stag.

“A caribou stag breathes so loud, we could’ve shot him in the dark,” he scoffed.

“I’d advise you all to raise your hands and disarm, trespassers of Thicket.”

All did as they were ordered and allowed the archers to take their weapons, save for Kingslayer as the archer felt his hands getting burned by the magic runes.

“Ah!! Damn blade is enchanted!!”

“Sorry.” Beorn said sheepishly as the archer’s captain got a better look at him.

“You are Beorn, son of Wulfric.”

“Yes?” Beorn said in surprise.

“I am Blackthorn, captain of the king’s guard. We have been expecting you.”

With a quick nod of their captain’s head, the archers blindfolded the party with no resistance as they were led deeper into the forest. Some however were already in a panic and began making wild assumptions.

“Oh gods this is it! They’re gonna slit our throats and leave us for the scavengers!”

“Shut it.” Hreidar said, unaware the guards were smirking.

“Or they’re gonna throw us to the timber wolves and say we got lost!!”

“Timber Wolves? Oh no, we’d never do that.” One guard replied before leaning in with a mischievous smile.

“We throw intruders to the cragadiles, less cleanup.

“AHHH!!”

“Shut your mouths! That’s an order!” Beorn snapped while the guards laughed.

Their trek lasted about another half hour until they stopped in place. The deer all stood behind a stag and simultaneously pulled off their blindfolds. The sight they bore witness to was a wondrous sight to behold.

An entire kingdom surrounded by tall trees, stretching for miles around them. Everywhere they looked they saw deer stags and doe’s, peacefully walking about and minding their day. Blackthorn then stood in front of the group and held out his hand to the kingdom.

“Welcome to Thicket, hidden kingdom of the deer.”

“It’s…so beautiful,” Hreidar said

“Why thank you…son of Dainn.”

Shing!

Hreidar gasped as he slowly looked down to see Blackthorn pressing a blade against his throat and Blackthorn glaring at him.

“You have the face of the blasphemous one, including his blood.”

Hreidar slowly became angry as Blackthorn slowly pressed the blade against his throat when a flash of bright red startled everyone and Blackthorn carefully turned around to see Kingslayer in Beorn’s hands.

“Remove your blade from his throat or I will remove your hand…”

“You would defend the son of a tyrant?”

“No….But I would defend my friend.” Beorn smiled at Hreidar before the runes on Kinglsayer flared with power.

“Last chance…remove. Your. Blade.”

“Peace, Lord Warborn.”

The deer all turned and immediately bowed on their knees, Blackthorn included. Approaching them, surrounded by heavily armed deer soldiers, were two deer dressed in royal woodland robes. Upon their heads were clowns that looked like they were made of tree branches and each were adorned with their own precious jewels. The deer stag had pure white fur with pale beige patches on his face, moderate chartreuse green eyes, and his antlers were large as they were valiant-looking.

The doe who walked beside them made some of the stags’ breath hitch, due to her surprising beauty. She had moderate cerulean eyes and her fur was grayish gamoge. Despite the woodland robes she wore, her body was that of a supermodel’s with all the right curves.

“Blackthorn, why must you treat my guests this way?” The royal stag asked.

“Your majesty, he is-!” Blackthorn tried to say, but the royal stag raised his hand.

“I am aware,” he interrupted and looked at Beorn and Hreidar.

“My greetings to you, guests of Thicket, I am King Aspen, Ruler of Thicket and Overlord of the Enchanted Forest. This is my wife, Queen Fyr.”

“Good day to you all,” Fyr smiled.

Beorn and Blackthorn set down their weapons as the young king stepped forward to kneel before the royal family.

“King Aspen, I humbly seek an audience. Equestria and the alliance are in desperate need of your aid.”

“Rise young king.” Aspen said, gesturing Beorn to stand.

“Let us speak more inside, you all must be tired from your long journey.”

They were brought to the king’s palace, through the elaborate walkways and buildings that still looked like something out of a dream.

“This place is amazing, I still can’t believe it’s real.” Hreidar said as he looked up to the leaves falling from the tree tops

“It’s like we walked into Alfheim itself.”

“Thank you. Our people built this place generations ago after we left the northlands.”

“So the legends are true.” Beorn said in astonishment before the glimmer from the palace doors.

“How did you make all this?”

“We take what we need from the forest but we always make sure the forest endures.” Fyr said while tending to a flower.

“You should know young Beorn, we met your mother and her friends once.”

“Really?”

“Yes. You have her loyal spirit as well as her brave heart.”

Beorn smiled after hearing those words and noticed Aspen was smiling at him with an approving nod as the next set of doors opened.

“And you also have your fathers strength.”

“Did you know him, your majesty?” Hreidar asked while keeping pace with Beorn.

“Not exactly.” Aspen replied before showing them a mural depicting the many battles of the great war.

“That’s...the Battle of The Frozen Wastes!” Beorn said with glee as he ran to another part of the mural.

“And here’s where dad met Uncle Shining! A-and over here! The Siege of Canterlot!”

“So enthusiastic.” Fyr giggled when Beorn stopped at one image in particular. The image of when his father was crowned king.

“Dad…”

Beorn and Hreidar examined each of the murals in awe.

“How do you have these murals? I don’t recall any of my family or the Princesses ever seeing any deer during and after the Great War,” Beorn wondered.

“We see what happens even beyond the borders of our forest,” Fyr said while noticing the sad expression on his face as he placed his hand on his father’s image.

“You miss him, don’t you?”

“More than anything…” Beorn sighed before following them to the dining hall.

The king’s servants arranged a small feast of berries and other fruits found in the forest as they sat down to begin their meeting.

“Now. What is this urgent request you have?” Aspen inquired while taking a berry from the bowl.

“Where to begin, but I suppose I should start with what matters most. My Aunt Twilight and sister recently went on a mission to the Midnight Palace to seek an audience with King Vorak and Queen Haydon. Long story short, they wanted their son Tirek back so he could spend the rest of his days in their dungeons. Sendak was supposed to help, but ended up scheming behind everyone’s back. Now Vorak is injured, Haydon is bedridden, and there’s a couple of power mad centaur’s on the loose in the badlands. We were hoping you could find a way to help subdue Tirek, and also maybe join us in the war against Blueblood; including the coming battle when winter comes against the Windigo King and his growing army of the dead.”

The king and queen were a bit surprised by Beorn’s request and some of the guards began talking amongst themselves as Aspen folded his hands and began to think.

“You seem like an honorable young man but…I’m afraid we can't help you.” The Forest King said.

“I…I see,” Beorn sighed as he slunked in his chair.

“Please understand, we cannot risk getting involved with another nation’s war, let alone fight one against the undead.”

“How…how can that be your decision?!?” Hreidar asked in frustration.

“Do you know what’s happening out there? This war is forcing Equestrians to fight their fellow countrymen!! Even now there are skirmishes all across the borders!”

"Hreidar, calm down!" Beorn urged as he pulled him back in his chair.

“I understand your frustrations, young one,” Aspen said calmly.

“But I still recall when my grandfather told me when my ancestors took us away from the North and created the Kingdom of Thicket when I was but a young buck. According to the scriptures, the race of deer were scarce and looked down upon by the caribou. We saw no place in the North, so it is why we left. Countless generations later, as we built up this home of ours, we swore to protect our own in our own way. Thicket may cover most of the Enchanted forest, but we are strictly forest folk. Despite the turmoil that has happened outside our borders, we have been able to live in peace amongst the trees. Besides, and no offense to either of you or Equestria, but I must put my people first above all others.”

“And how will you protect them from an eternal winter?!?”

“Hreidar!! That’s enough!” Beorn shouted.

“My apologies, your majesties. This war has been hard on all of us.”

"We understand." Fyr said calmly.

"Let us discuss more once you have all rested, you both must be tired from your long journey."

"We humbly accept."

“Mother! Father! We’re home!”

The doors opened to reveal three new deer. One was a young-looking buck, about the same age or younger than Beorn and Hreidar. He wore traditional woodland attire and had small horns on top of his head. His fur was light brown with a white underbelly and his eyes were a brilliant tangelo. He had a wide smile as he had a bow slung over his shoulder.

Next was an older deer stag with large and prominent antlers on his head. He wore what looked to be hunter’s garbs and had a larger bow slung over his shoulder. He had a more muscular build than Aspen, his fur was grayish brown, and his eyes were apple green. Some of the doe maids who looked at him swooned a little since he was admittedly quite attractive to look at.

Finally, a doe, looking about the same age as Beorn and Hreidar, walked in and was also dressed in regal-looking hunter’s garbs. Her fur was as white as Aspen’s, her eyes were as blue as Fyr’s, and her body had just the right curves for a girl her age. Even though Beorn was already promised to others, he could at least admit she was pretty. However, Hreidar on the other hand couldn’t seem to take his eyes off the young doe. For him, she was the most beautiful creature he’d ever laid eyes on.

“Ah, my son and daughter!” Aspen exclaimed happily as the buck and doe came up to the King and Queen.

“And how was your training, son?”

“It was great! Uncle Hawthorn said I’ll be as good at archery as him someday!” The buck said.

“Hmph, maybe when you finally learn to shoot straight,” the doe scoffed.

“Dyani! Be nice to your little brother,” Fyr scolded.

“Yes mother,” the doe sighed.

“And who are these people?” Beorn asked.

“Ah yes,” Aspen cleared his throat.

“My youngest son, Bramble, my eldest daughter, Dyani, and my brother, Hawthorn.”

Aspen looked at his brother with a quirked brow.

“Where is…Larch?” Hawthorn frowned bitterly and looked away.

“Still missing, hmm?”

“Seems we stumbled into some family drama.” Beorn whispered to Hreidar who appeared to have an unusual sparkle in his eye after noticing Dyani.

“Uh, Hreidar? Equestria calling Hreidar! Yoo hoo! Come in Hreidar!” Beorn waved his hand in front of his dazed friend before finally getting annoyed.

“Wake UP!!”

BONK!

“OW! Geeze, what was that for?!?”

“You looked totally out of it, dude,” Beorn smirked.

“I was? How?”

“I think I can guess,” Beorn smirked, glancing at the deer Princess.

“What, her?” Hreidar dismissed, sounding nervous.

“You seemed to be staring quite a lot.”

“I was not! That’d be creepy!”

“Woah…” prince Bramble said as he walked up to Beorn and Hreidar.

“You two look awesome! That sword is pretty cool!”

“Thanks kid,” Beorn smiled.

“How interesting,” Dyani hummed as she approached the two.

“I didn’t expect to see Caribou within our borders. My grandfather often spoke of the North, yet I’ve never been. Then again, we haven’t exactly gone that far from the forest before the new war began.”

“It’s nice to meet you both, I am Beorn Warborn, King of the North and Lord of the clans.”

“I am Hreidar Snow, I’m just here to accompany my friend,” Hreidar nodded.

“Oh, so you’re The Behemoth!” Dyani said in realization as she looked him over.

“You don’t look like a monster.”

“Dyani!” Aspen scolded while Hreidar gave his friend a nudge.

“Oh trust me, he’s a real beast when he snores!”

“Oh for Odin’s sake, let it go!” Beorn groaned after one of his more embarrassing secrets was revealed.

Dyani and Bramble laughed before joining them at the table as the king called for more refreshments.

“Now as we previously discussed. You two will stay as my guests until your visit is over, feel free to treat this place as your home.”

The two nodded in appreciation as they were escorted out of the room and to their guest rooms. Once they were gone, along with the royal children, Aspen waved his hand to the staff so that it was only him, his wife, and brother. Waiting until the right moment, Aspen turned to Hawthorn.

“Is it true?” Aspen asked.

“We checked everywhere, Aspen, no one’s seen him,” Hawthorn sighed.

“What about his loyalists?”

“They won’t talk, they’ve sworn to secrecy.”

“Brother, this is our cousin we speak of,” Aspen reminded his brother.

“You two may never see eye-to-eye, but Larch is still family regardless. I must know for certain so that these rumors of…a coup d’état can be put to rest. So please, Hawthorn, please at least try to find Larch before it is too late.”

While Aspen and his brother were discussing what seemed like a family issue, unaware that Bramble and Dyani were peeking in on Hreidar who was polishing his armor.

“Bramble move! I can’t see!” Dyani whispered while trying to get a better view.

“Why are we even doing this? Can’t you just talk to the guy?” Bramble asked as his sister pushed his head down.

“Don’t you remember the stories we were told? Northlanders are supposed to be brutish, savage warriors who crave battle and lust after females! This is our chance to see not just one but two of them!”

The two suddenly found themselves falling through the doorway as Hreidar opened the door with a confused look on his face.

“Care to explain yourselves?”

“Sorry!” Bramble said as they quickly stood up.

“We just wanted to see what you were like.”

“How do you mean?” Hreidar wondered.

“We had heard about what happened during the Great War, how Dainn and his followers conquered Equestria and forced females to be subjugated to slavery,” Dyani said.

“So…we were wondering if the Northerners were still like that.”

“Just how out of the loop are you deer?” Hreidar questioned.

“Before the whole mess with Blueblood, Equestria had been at peace for over 15 years. King Wulfric, gods rest his soul, ensured a steady alliance between the North and Equestria. So to answer your question, no, not all Northerners are as diabolical as you think.”

“Oh, I see…sorry for judging you,” Dyani said.

“It’s fine, I get that a lot anyway.”

“How come?” Bramble wondered.

“It’s…complicated.” Hreidar admitted.

“If I tell you, will you promise not to freak out?”

“Freak out? Why?”

“Can you please promise? I’m afraid I must insist that you do.”

“Well if it’s that serious, then I promise I won’t,” Dyani smiled.

“Me too! I’m great at keeping secrets!” Bramble chriped, making his older sister roll her eyes.

“Okay…sigh, the reason why my last name is Snow, is because I am Dainn Stonehoof’s illegitimate son…”

The children were surprised by this revelation but were more curious than shocked.

“So if you were Dainns son, how come you’re friends with the new king?” Bramble asked as Hreidar smiled.

“I still wonder about that myself,” he said as Dyani raised her hand to ask her question.

“So what's the deal with your friend? I heard he was a monster on the battlefield, a warrior who fights like a demon! But he seems pretty normal to me.”

“Trust me, he can fight…” Hreidar paused to look out the window.

“But it’s nothing to brag about.”

“How so?” Dyani asked.

“Don’t get me wrong, Beorn’s an excellent combatant with most weapons. But he’s known to be a bit excessive. There’s a reason why he’s nicknamed the Behemoth.”

“Why’s that?” Bramble wondered.

“Because he butchers his enemies without remorse,” Hreidar said bluntly.

“I once saw him bash a poor sod’s head in with his hammer and another time when he beat another’s face in so bad, his skull was caved in and brains spilled out from his ears.” Dyani looked nauseous from the description while Bramble had stars in his eyes.

“Oh, my apologies, I sorta got carried away.”

“It’s…quite alright,” Dyani said, gulping down whatever threatened to be regurgitated.

“If you don’t mind me asking, I overheard from your father about some issue with his brother. Would it be alright if you told me about it?”

“Umm...I don’t know.” Bramble rubbed his arm nervously.

“Oh it’s just our uncle.”

“Dyani?!?”

“What? We might as well tell him.” Dyani shrugged while grabbing a chair to sit on.

“So a few months back, one of our relatives suggested that we actually go to war.”

“Against who?” Hreidar asked while sitting on the edge of the bed.

“Everyone. Princess Celestia, Prince Blueblood, King Beorn; all of you! He said it was the perfect time to strike.”

“But our dad was against it.” Bramble added.

“He owes a lot to Princess Twilight and her friends for saving me.”

“I see, so now he’s out there doing who knows what?” Hreidar asked and they nodded.

“He just up and left without warning after getting tired of arguing with our father. Uncle Hawthorn was sent to find him so father could try and reason with him, but so far there’s been no luck. That last known sighting of Uncle Larch was deeper in the forest, towards the forbidden tree line,” Dyani said.

“Forbidden tree line?” Hreidar repeated.

“It’s known as The Mirkwood, the trees and plants are foul with decay and dark creatures have taken residence there. There have been times when deer venture in Mirkwood in search of unlucky wanderers, only none ever return.”

“If he’s there, then maybe he got eaten by something?” Hreidar guessed.

“We thought that too, sadly, but Uncle Hawthorn has always said in his reports that he could’ve sworn he’d seen Uncle Larch around the tree line. He almost wants to go in Mirkwood, but even our father says it’s too much of a risk, even for Uncle Larch,” Bramble said.

“Why’s that?”

“A Boggart lives in those woods.”

“Boggart?” Hreidar inquired when Bramble grabbed a book from the shelf to show him the beast's picture.

“Boggarts are one of the most dangerous creatures here. They’re solitary and have a nasty temper, they live mostly underground and are blind but they have an excellent sense of smell. It usually takes an entire battalion to bring down one.”

“Hmm, looks like it had a stoney hide.” Hreidar said while getting a good look.

“Sharp claws too and those teeth.”

“CHILDREN!!” A voice shouted when all three turned to see a palace guard with a lantern at the doorway.

“What are you two doing up so late? Back to bed at once!”

“Y-yes sir!”

QThe two deer scurried out of the room, leaving Hreidar by himself. This information was interesting to him and could be useful in convincing King Aspen to help with the war efforts. Hreidar made a mental note to inform Beorn in the morning before he laid in bed and went to sleep.

“And that’s what they told me,” Hreidar said as he and Beorn made their way to the dining hall. Hreidar just finished explaining all that he had been told, which interested the young king. “This Mirkwood also sounds dangerous, especially that Boggart thing, what should we do?”

“Hmm, I’ll have some of the boys who came with us ask around for further information. For now, let’s just focus on trying to get on Aspen’s good side. He may not realize it, but his aid could be a turning point in this war,” Beorn said.

Hreidar nodded as they entered the dining hall where the royal family were already present. Aspen was going over some last minute documents as they waited for their breakfast and the boys took their seats.

“Good morning, you two,” Aspen said.

“Good morning, your highness,” Beorn and Hreidar said while bowing their heads.

“King Aspen, I understand you do not wish to have anything to do with the war, but perhaps we can discuss other matters?” Beorn offered.

“Oh? Such as?”

“Maybe we can share trading goods with Thicket and Equestria?”

“An interesting offer young one. What can you give us, should we accept?” Aspen asked when Beorn showed him his cloak.

“This cloak was made by my fathers hands but we have many more craftsmen who can make all sorts of clothes and jewelry, plus we can offer exotic pelts and foods not native to the forest.”

“I see. So does that mean you do not wish for us to join the war?” Aspen asked while sipping some tea.

“Not exactly…” Beorn took a deep breath and folded his hands.

“King Aspen. I understand you have a potion that can help plants grow at an incredible rate, I ask that you use that potion to help heal this land after the war.”

The king and queen were shocked at this offer as Beorn’s tone became solemn and a bit sad.

“Because of this war, many forests and grasslands have been destroyed and many animals are without homes but worst of all is that many civilians rely on those places for resources. So I ask-no, I beg you…” Beorn walked over to the king and queen and in a surprise he dropped to his knees and bowed before them.

“Please, help us!”

“Sire!!” A soldier shouted in shock at the display.

King Aspen and Queen Fyr were surprised to see such a display of submission from Beorn. They had always believed the Northerners were as prideful as they were strong. Yet the young king himself was practically casting his pride out the window just to beg for his kingdom’s aid in the war. Aspen was admittedly at a loss what to do in this situation and wondered what the best course of action would be. On one hand, he cared for his people and would remain safe should he decline and let Beorn and the alliance fight the war themselves. On the other hand, should he agree to Beorn’s terms, he would risk the enemy targeting Thicket and destroy everything he had worked so hard to preserve.

“King Beorn, I-”

BOOM!

Suddenly, the room shook from a loud bang from outside. Aspen and Beorn scrambled to the window to see smoke coming from outside the walls of the kingdom and the citizens beginning to panic.

“What is the meaning of this?!” Aspen demanded when the double doors swung open and a deer soldier came running in.

“Sire! We must get the citizens to safety!”

“What the heck’s going on?!” Beorn demanded.

“Monsters from Mirkwood have appeared and are attacking the walls! And…a-and a Boggart is among them!”

The group ran out to the balcony to see smoke stacks rising from different parts of the city followed by the screams of frightened citizens as the royal guard rallied to their defense.

“King Beorn, barricade yourself in your chambers.” Aspen instructed but saw Beorn unsheathing his sword.

“To Helheim with that! Hreidar, grab your hatchets and let’s move!”

“You’re going to fight? But this is not your city…”

“Maybe not but that’s no excuse to stand around!” Hreidar snapped as he rushed to the nearest guard post.

“…Get the children, wait until I come back.” Aspen said to Fyr as he kissed her.

“Be careful.” Fyr said as he raced back to the throne room for his armor.

The two young stags both ran for the entrance, followed by their accompanying Viking warriors, and sprinted down the streets. Beorn had Thunderbolt in hand and Hreidar with both his hatchets. They eventually made it to the lookout tower on the wall and looked past the trees. True to the messenger’s words, an army of grotesque monsters stood together. From what Beorn remembered reading once in a book from Twilight’s library, these monsters are a race of grey-skinned creatures called Boggans. They were thought to all be extinct hundreds of years ago, but it seems now there was a whole army of survivors. They were all armed with crude, yet deadly-looking, weapons while dressed in the bones and skins of animals and a group of them were carrying a battering ram that knocked against the front gate. Behind the army of monsters was a larger monster as it roared at the top of its lungs at the walls of Thicket.

“Beorn…there’s so many,” Hreidar said.

“I know,” Beorn said as he glared at the Boggart and gripped his hammer. “Which is why we will never allow them to take this kingdom.”

End.