Game of Thrones: Equestria

One Month Later
Day of The Freedom Tournament

There was a tense atmosphere looming over the Saddle Arabian Palace. The streets were filled with its denizens as they all flocked to the colosseum for a special event that many were looking forward to. A day that would mean the freedom of one lucky slave who would be able to win the tournament by defeating the champion and earning their freedom. All the seats were already packed with more spectators trying to see through barred walls. Up on the royal spectator’s box, King Saladin and his daughter Jasmin were sitting next to each other. Beside them were a few more nobles including Lock, who was in his disguised stallion noble form. Tarra and Rarity were acting as proper slaves as Rarity sat herself on Lock’s lap, occasionally fidgeting in place on his crotch and Tarra was giving him a shoulder massage.

“Rarity, ease up on the grinding,” Lock muttered to the giggling mare.

“I get you like to fool around, but we’re still on a mission! It’s an important day today!”

“I know darling but you were so rough last night that I’m still a bit tingly~.” Rarity teased while leaning back against him.

“Also, the girls managed to gather some intel and um…recruit some of the guards to our side.” She whispered in his ear before nibbling on it to keep up the act.

“My my lord Flare, seems your slaves are quite happy this morning.” Saladin grinned as he eyeballed Rarity’s bouncing chest.

“Quite. I made sure to reward them handsomely for behaving yesterday.” Lock grinned before the trumpets blared and the crowd began to cheer.

“It’s starting!”

The spectators cheered as the gates from both sides of the colosseum opened up and the fighters began walking through. On one side, Bruz, Grubber, Windy, and a few other ponies and griffins walked out. Behind them was Imperius and the whole crowd went wild at the sight of him.

“HAIL, WARRIOR OF THE SUN! HAIL, WARRIOR OF THE SUN! HAIL, WARRIOR OF THE SUN!”

Meanwhile, Lock had his eyes. Set on Imperius and he could hardly believe whom he was staring at. The nervous colt he had met many months prior, when he first arrived in this world, now had grown up to be a respectable stallion. Strapped to his back was a sort of pole, wrapped in a white cloth and he held a normal halberd in his hand. Lock realized that the one on his back was the weapon Celestia had sent him and thanked whatever god that they allowed Selene to deliver it to him. Speaking of his young marefriend, Selene soon arrived and daintily sat next to Lock. Saladin noticed her and began eyeing her up with a sick grin.

“Welcome dear princess.”

“My lord.” Selene said casually before seeing her brother carefully adjust the cloth covering his new weapon.

“What weapon is that?” The sultan asked one of his guards who shrugged at the question.

“He um…must’ve commissioned a blacksmith to make that for him, sire.”

“Well I hope it was worth the bits. Must’ve cost a pretty penny and his hairstyle is um…unique.”

“Thank goodness mother’s not here.” Selene whispered to Lock after noticing the mohawk Imperius was now sporting.

“People of Saddle Arabia!!” An announcer called from the podium.

“Today marks the start of our annual event. The Tournament of Freedom!!”

YAAAAAY!!

“Once a year, the fighters of the pits will compete in a test of strength and skill to earn their chance at fame, glory and above all redemption! For the winner of these games will not only be pardoned of their past crimes but will live on as the greatest warrior EVER KNOWN!!”

YAAAAAY!!

“BUT….who will claim the prize this year?” The announcer paused for dramatic effect while pointing to the competitors.

“Will it be our reigning champion, Zamnir The Destroyer?” He asked aloud as a mix of cheers and boos filled the arena.
“Or…will it be our newest rising star? The Prince of Piercing Strikes, The one winged warrior, The Warrior of The Sun! IMPERIUS!!” The crowd began stomping and chanting at the mention of his name with some of the females in the audience blowing kisses and waving at him as he raised his fist and roared to the crowd with a mighty battle cry.

“And now…introducing the vagabonds!”

The other gate on the other side of the gate opened and everyone immediately began booing as the criminals filed out. There were pony stallions who were armed to the teeth with crude and blunt weapons and swords. Some griffins were snickering to each other as they filed their razor sharp claws. There were even some zebra stallions who eyed some of the other slaves with murderous grins. Behind the group was the champion himself, Zamnir, and he was armed with a massive hammer that he carried over his shoulder. He wore a single plated shoulder pauldron, plated leg guards, and wore metal gauntlets on each hand. The two sides stood in front of each other while Lock and the others examined the large bull.

“Sheesh, and I thought I had my share of large enemies,” Lock muttered.

“He’s a monster!!” Selene said with fright and noticed the scratches on the hammer’s shaft no doubt the number of victims that fell beneath it as Zamnir marched up to Imperius to offer a handshake.

“I look forward to crushing you in the finals.” The bull grinned as Imperius returned the handshake.

“Try to stay alive before I skewer you.” Imperius grinned as Zamnir slowly crushed his hand before the prince used his new powers to burn off some of the fur around his arm.

“Interesting.” Zamnir grinned before walking back.

“Bastard almost crushed my hand…”

“Watch yourself, lad, that means you’re off limits to the others.” Bruze warned while the other convicts bowed and made way for Zamnir.

“Now I shall explain the rules…THERE ARE NONE!” The announcer shouted, causing the crowd to cheer again. “Everyone shall fight each other until our benevolent Sultan decrees that he has seen enough! So rip each other apart! Beat each other black and blue! Kill each other, for all I care, just give us a good show!”

“Guy really needs to pump the brakes,” Lock grumbled.

The announcer signaled one of the slaves bedside him to ignite a brazier to signal the start of the tournament.

“BEGIN!!”

All hell soon broke loose as all participants charged at each other and began fighting for their lives. Bruz saw two pony stallions try to run up to him and overpower him, but Bruz just raised his large fist and smacked both their heads to the side, sending them flying.

“I ain’t got time for you.” Bruz looked at his brother who just stood there with a grin.

“I got unfinished business.”

Imperius ducked and weaved past several opponents before kicking one of them straight into the spikes covering the walls as the crowd let out a cry of shock before watching him use his halberd and the mysterious weapon masterfully, despite it being covered in cloth.

“He’s gotten good.” Lock said to himself before seeing some of the sultan’s dancers leaning over the edge with lovestruck gazes.

“MARRY ME!!”

“LET ME HAVE YOUR FOALS!!”

“Now I’m really glad my mother’s not here…” Selene sighed before seeing her brother headbutt another opponent with a crack loud enough for the stands to hear.

Imperius twirled his weapon and blocked every attack any criminal tried to land on him. He was up against two griffins and a zebra stallion armed with a mace. The two griffins slashed at Imperius with their claws but the young prince blocked and parried them with ease. When the zebra made a move to smash his head in, Imperius jabbed the blunt end of his weapon into the zebra’s gut. The zebra lurched forward as Imperius swept his weapon under both griffins’ feet, knocking them to the ground. Following up his movements, Imperius spun around and delivered a flying back kick to the side of the zebra’s temple. He finished the stallion off by spinning his weapon over his head and bashing the zebra across his muzzle and spraying a good deal of blood onto the sand. The zebra was knocked unconscious and Imperius backflipped behind the two griffins and kicked them both unconscious.

“Next?” The prince said as he laid his weapon on the ground and grabbed a spear from a dead gladiator while Bruze ordered the rest to fall back. Lock and the crowd watched in awe as he masterfully struck down each opponent with ease, moving with the grace of a dancer before swiftly striking down the last of Zamnir’s goons until only the two of them were standing face-to-face.

“No…” Bruz whispered as Zamnir gripped his hammer and dared the prince to make the first strike.

“HyaaaaaaAAAAH!!”

“NO!! LAD WAIT!!” Bruze shouted as they came to blows.

Despite the size of his weapon, Zamnir was able to block and parry every last one of the prince’s attacks with a manic grin on his face before finally pushing him back.

“My turn.” The bull said as he gripped the hammer with both hands and charged with alarming speed.

Imperius used his good wing to kick up a dust cloud but that did little to slow down Zamnir as his hammer came swinging out and shattered his spear as he was sent flying across the arena. The other weapon, hidden in cloth, was forced out of his other grip.

“NO!!” Selene shouted as the crowd gasped.

Imperius groaned in pain from the impact and saw his hidden weapon was just out of reach. Zamnir slowly marched up to the helpless prince while Bruze and the others stood frozen with fear.

“Not bad boy…” Zamnir noded in approvement before turning to leave the arena.

“But not good enough.”

“Don’t you walk away from me!” Imperius managed to stand himself up.

He charged at Zamnir and raised his fist. Zamnir glanced over his shoulder and went to block his strike. However, all the rage that boiled inside of Imperius had ignited his power. Small embers coated Imperius’s fist as he managed to jump in the air and connect his fist with Zamnir’s muzzle.

WHAM!!

All participants gasped, Bruz and the other fellow slaves included, as Zamnir staggered backwards a few feet from Imperius’s punch. The bull stood there for a moment as a stinging and burning sensation enveloped the whole right side of his face. He glanced back at Imperius who picked up his weapon wrapped in cloth and pointed it at Zamnir.

“We’re not done until that fat bastard up there says we are!” Imperius barked.

“You…YOU LITTLE!!” Zamnir growled with absolute fury as he prepared to charge again until he heard the clapping of the sultan’s hands followed by an amused laugh.

“Well done! Well done my gladiators!! You have provided me and these good citizens with a spectacle worthy of remembrance!” Saladin said as the crowd applauded and cheered.

“But you must save your fight for future battles. I hereby conclude this first event to be over! The winners of this bout will now face each other in a series of one-on-one battles!”

YAAAY!!

“Fighters, return to your quarters, dress your wounds and fill your bellies for tomorrow you will entertain us again! This is a command from your ruler!!”

Reluctantly, Imperius and Zamnir backed away from one another but not before the minotaur glared at the prince with a very clear threat.

“When I get through with you…I’m gonna pay your precious sister a visit!”

The moment he heard those words, the prince’s anger flared as did his fist before Bruze carefully pulled him away.

“Easy lad, you’ll get yer shot.” He said while glaring back at his brother.

Imperius marched back through his side of the coliseum and he kicked a barrel out of the way and flipped over a table.

“That scum sucking piece of manticore shit! Who does he think he is threatening my sister like that?! I should tear his horns off and use them to skewer his innards out!”

“Imperius, calm down!” Mona tried to say.

“Three months! Three bucking months I’ve been away from my sister! I was so happy to see her again, and now she’s in more danger than she realizes!” The temperature in the room began to rise along with Imperius’s rage. “This whole place should be BURNT TO THE BUCKING GROUND!”

“Imperius, hon. Calm down.” Ebony said while seating herself on his lap and kissing him, instantly cooling him down.

“Everything will be fine.”

“But…Zamnir-”

“Will get his flank kicked when he faces you. Did you see the look on his face when you sucker punched him? I was hoping a tooth would fly out!” Ebony giggled before joining her sister.

“You were great today and tomorrow you’ll be even better.” Mona smiled and pulled her lover into her chest as he let out a calming sigh.

“How is it you girls know how to calm me?”

“It’s a gift my love, speaking of gifts~.” Mona pushed him back and kissed him romantically while Ebony gently pulled him into his cell from behind. The two zebra sisters removed their tops and proceeded to take turns making out with their lover.

“Glad to see you’re enjoying yourselves.”

The sudden voice made them all snap to attention and look down from the bed. A dark red furred rat sat up on its hind legs and crossed its little arms. The sight of the rat made both mares shriek in fright as they hugged Imperius for dear life, smothering him in a valley of bosom.

“HELP IMPERIUS!”

“EEK! A RAT! KILL IT!!”

“MMPH!! Girls! Can’t breathe!!” Imperius muffled while his arms flailed about, looking for something to grab.

“Easy kiddo, it’s me.” Lock said before transforming into his human form.

“Sorry for the scare but security is tight now that the matches have started.”

“Master Lock!” Imperius smiled cheerfully as he escaped his lovers and hugged Lock.

“Woah, easy there kid, I’m happy to see you too.” Lock hugged him back and got a good look at him. “Damn, you sure grew the hell up. You’re definitely an improved version of the young colt I met almost a year ago.” Lock then turned to the two zebra sisters who eyed the man curiously as they covered themselves. “Oh, pardon the intrusion ladies, my name’s Dimitri Lockdrom.”

“So…you’re Imperius’s teacher?” Ebony asked.

“Well I hope you’re happy! My sister and I planned this for a month!” Mona pouted while dressing herself.

“Again, my apologies, I just wanted to see my student.”

“Master, how are my sister and Gummy?” The prince asked with desperation.

“Are they safe? Are they-”

“They’re okay.” Lock answered while seating him down on a nearby stool.

“Gummy is a wreck after you got captured and your mother was devastated when they sent her your feathers…”

“They did WHAT?!?” Imperius shouted in anger before Lock calmed him down again.

“Easy kid. We’ll get you out of here soon but we gotta time it right.”

“What do you mean?” Imperius wondered.

“It all depends on your victory against that big bastard I saw you give a new shiner to, great work by the way. Rarity and I have a plan to spring a trap on that sultan and cause a massive riot. I heard Princess Jasmine has been feeding you intel and has gotten some of the guards to go along with her and rebel against Saladin.”

“Can’t you just turn into a dragon and eat Saladin?” Mona wondered. “Imperius told us how you did that once.”

“No, killing him is not enough.” Lock explained.

“We need to expose him in front of the whole kingdom. We need something juicy, some kind of dark secret.”

“Will rigging the matches against me help?” Imperius asked while giving his teacher some fruit.

“He’s been trying to get rid of me ever since I got here and the people are starting to favor me over their current champion.”

“No surprise, you’ve spared your fair share of opponents along with killing those who deserved it. You’re like a symbol to the ponies of Saddle Arabia.” Ebony said while seating herself on his lap again.

“And I have something to tell you.” Lock held his hands behind his back. “Imperius, you’ve been through many hardships during this ordeal but managed to stay on top of things and keep a level head. Your skills of combat and tactics have improved drastically, and I am proud of you as your teacher. With that being said, I shall now give you your final lesson as your teacher. Defeat the champion and help bring peace to Saddle Arabia. Once you are victorious, you will have officially graduated as my student.”

Imperius stood there dumbfounded by what he had just heard even as Mona and Ebony cheered and began smothering him with kisses.

“I’m…gonna be knighted?”

“You’ve earned it kid.” Lock smiled before hearing one of the guards marching down the hallway.

“Oop. Gotta go, ladies please treat him right.”

“Ohh we will~.” Ebony grinned as Lock took his rat form again and watched as the three lovers began to make out.

“Ahh young love.” He said to himself before Mona’s top was thrown to the ground.

“Hey! What’s all the noise in here?” The guard asked as he peeked into the cell to see a red rat scurry out and the prince with his two zebra mares smothering him with affection.

“Just having a little party sir.” Imperius grinned as he squeezed Ebony’s flank.

“Well just take it easy, I got a lot of bits bet on you.”

“Yes sir.” Imperius said as the guard left.

“So girls…where were we?”

“Mmm we have a surprise for you~.” Mona said as she gently laid him down on the bed.

“Remember that herbal mix we mentioned, the one that induces lactation?” She asked while slowly removing the blanket covering her bountiful chest.

“Yeah.” Imperius grinned as she got on top of him, her soft breasts just inches away from his dry lips.

“Say ah~.”

Imperius opened his mouth and latched onto her nipple. Mona moaned as Imperius drank her milk and Ebony crawled down to pull his trousers off. In the back of Imperius’s mind, he swore that he would win this tournament and free this kingdom from tyranny.

Midnight Palace

It had been a long and arduous time for the denizens of Midnight Palace. Apple Jewel and Twilight were trying to help keep the peace with Scorpan since he was acting ruler in his father’s stead. King Vorak was still under medical supervision and had to be kept a close eye on since the blade he was stabbed with punctured an organ. Thankfully, as the strong centaur he was, Vorak was able to walk on his own through the medical wing but still had to watch his stitches.

Queen Haydon was in another part of the medical wing as the staff helped her with replenishing her stolen magic. The queen was left in a frail state and Twilight had been working around the clock with the other gargoyles and centaurs to utilize their own magic for the queen’s sake. The poor queen had also been in a state of depression since she couldn’t get over the fact that her son had once again betrayed her.

Apple Jewel stood by Scorpan as he sat in his father’s throne and he handled day court. The weight of being acting ruler took its toll as Scorpan had bags under his eyes.

“I’m not sure how much more I can take,” Scorpan sighed as Apple Jewel stood by him.

“My mother and father are still recovering and all I’ve heard from the scouts are mere sightings of my brother and that hermit along the borders of the Badlands. I knew he’d pull something like this, why couldn’t I have just listened to my gut?”

“It’s not your fault Scorpan.” Jewel said while they looked at the servants running about to clean the throne room and bring them their breakfast.

“You’re doing the best you can, your citizens know it too. Don’t be too hard on yourself.”

“She is right, my lord.” One butler said while preparing their morning tea.

“In truth, we have all preferred you to inherit the throne rather than your brother. Even when he was young, Tirek wanted nothing more than to outshine your father and was willing to do anything to make it happen and it is understandable why you helped him all those years ago.”

Scorpan sighed as he was given his tea along with a scone.

“But you must understand that he chose his own path, it has nothing to do with you.”

“I know…but he is still my brother. Maybe if I can just talk with him-”

“You think he’ll listen?” Said Scoli who was walking towards the throne.

“Uncle, I hate to say it but Tirek is beyond saving.”

“I…perhaps you are right…” Scorpan said with a frown.

“Why so down in the dumps, Scorpy?” Discord appeared above the group as he munched on a twig.

“So what if your brother is behind saving, that’s actually a good thing! Because now you can inherit the throne with no one standing in your way.”

“That’s not the point, Discord, and you know it!” Scorpan snapped.

“True, but you look good sitting on that throne.”

“Ugh, I recall how you always used to give my family headaches with your incessant ramblings.” Scorpan rubbed his temples.

“Don’t be so blue, Scorpy, I have actually come to a decision to help you.”

“Help me? How?”

“I believe I can help your father recover to his full extent by acquiring a special medicinal liquid found in the Red Dunes.” That last part made Scorpan spit out his tea.

“That is the most hostile plain in all the Badlands!”

“How so?” Jewel wondered as Scoli explained.

“It is a desert that stretches for hundreds of miles with only a single oasis at its center but the journey is near impossible to complete. During the day, the dust clouds are kicked up by winds so strong that they blind you and at night it becomes as cold as the mountains in winter. Then there are the predators that stalk the wastes.”

“Tatzlwurms, Basilisks and Rocs.”

“Rocks?” Apple Jewel questioned the last part.

“Not like rocks in your head, dearie. Rocs as in the legendary giant bird.” Discord said before poofing up a picture of the creature mentioned.

“And I do mean giant. They got wingspans big enough to blot out the sun and cause hurricane winds with talons so large they could scoop up two cows in one go and let’s not forget about that beak. Strong enough to crack mountains to rubble!”

“That sounds scary,” Apple Jewel gulped.

“Not to mention…a death sentence.”

All heads turned to the entrance of the throne room to see Vorak, of all people, waking in and being supported by a crutch.

“Father?! You shouldn’t be up and walking around!” Scorpion yelped.

“I was stabbed in the gut, my legs work just fine,” Vorak corrected.

“Besides, a king must never look weak in the eyes of his people.”

“Father, this isn’t about pride! This is about your health!” Scorpan pleaded.

“Hush boy, I have overheard your conversation and must address it.” Viral turned to Discord.

“You do realize this task would mean certain death to those ill-prepared, even for you, a lord of chaos. Why take the risk for a king and queen you no longer serve?”

“I am simply doing this as a favor to a child of one of my dear friends.” Discord said while patting Apple Jewel’s head.

“This sweet little filly is willing to risk everything for a kingdom she barely knows, all for the sake of securing an alliance with Equestria as is her Queenly duties while her dear little brother is on the front risking life and limb. How can I NOT help?”

“Mmm very well, you have a point.” Vorak sighed while carefully seating himself in a chair.

“But it still doesn't feel right sending you by yourself young Jewel.”

“I may not look it, your majesty but I’m quite capable of defending myself.” Apple Jewel said.

“Both my brother and I were trained by our father since we were little and though he is the more skilled of us, I am the stronger one.”

“Beg pardon?” Vorak asked in confusion.

“It’s true,” Discord grinned.

“Ever since she was a young filly, the girl has had considerable strength. I recall she once broke her father’s finger when she grabbed onto it as a baby.”

“I did that?” Apple Jewel asked, a bit embarrassed.

“Indeed, the poor man couldn’t hold a sword properly for a few months. Drove him stir crazy, not being able to spar with his brethren.”

This made Jewel blush from embarrassment as she hid her face while Scoli and her uncle just chuckled.

“However it did warm his heart to just hold you in his arms when he had the chance. So precious!” Discord teased while pinching her cheeks.
“Still I think it’s best you should at least take some capable soldiers with you. I propose a test.” Scorpan said.

“The princess shall have a contest of her choosing to see who will accompany her and Scoli on this mission.”

“Hmm, bring me one of your strongest centaur soldiers,” Jewel said confidently.

“Uh, are you sure Jewel?” Scoli asked.

“I’m fine, I’ve been missing action lately.”

Scorpan nodded and gestured for some of the staff to escort his father back to the medical wing. Scorpan then sent for some of the troops to meet at the barracks courtyard. A band of large, muscle bound gargoyle and centaur soldiers stood at attention in front of their stand-in king and the young princess.

“Greetings gentlemen, I have gathered you all here today for a contest,” Scorpan said.

“This is Queen Apple Jewel, daughter of Wulfric Warborn.” Murmurs were heard amongst the troops

“Your task is quite simple, best this young mare in an arm wrestling contest.”

The men laughed, thinking this was a joke when Apple Jewel gave her mothers signature quirked eyebrow look and they instantly went silent while one of the castle servants set up a table.

“Gentlemen, prepare yourselves.” She said while cracking her fingers and awaited her first challengers.

One gargoyle guard scoffed and stepped up and thought this would be a win as he carefully gripped the young queen’s hand.

“Don’t worry sweetheart, I’ll be gentle.” He joked, making the other soldiers chuckle.

“Ready…GO!!”

SLAM!!

Before the guard knew what had happened, Apple Jewel slammed his hand to the table as easy as swatting a fly with a gentle smile.

“Next?”

All the men were stunned at the power from the young mare. One by one, gargoyle after centaur, Apple Jewel mopped the floor with the lot of them. Leaving them with sore arms and wounded pride.

“This might have been a bad idea…” Scorpan pinched the bridge of his nose.

However, Scoli had been distracted from the display of strength Apple Jewel showed off. Her cheeks flushed a little as she put a hand on her chest and kept staring at Jewel.

“Scoli?” Scorpan tapped her shoulder.

“Are you okay?”

“Oh! Um, I’m fine, uncle.” Scoli said while taking a quick breath to calm herself. In the end only three guards were able to pass Apple Jewels test while the rest were off to the nurses office to get their arms looked at.

“That girl is something…”

“No kidding, imagine being the lucky bastard that nabs her for a bride.”

Apple Jewel giggled while waving goodbye to the other competitors before looking at her new bodyguards.

“Congratulations you three, you passed.” She said with a warm smile.

“We depart in three days, be ready.”

“Hold it!” One of the centaur soldiers stepped up. A young-looking centaur with light blue skin and red hair stood before Jewel.

“I wish to challenge this Queen.”

“Abdor, the contest is already over, you passed.”

“Yet many of my brethren failed. I wish to experience her strength for myself.”

“What say you, Apple Jewel?” Scorpan asked.

Apple Jewel had to admit it, but this Abdor character was quite the looker for his standards. The young queen may have still been coming to terms with her sexuality, but she was still a young girl who had not yet found her significant other.

“Very well, you’re on.” Jewel said as she readied herself while Abdor did a few shoulder rolls before cracking his fingers.

As Abdor placed his elbow on the table, Apple Jewel noticed how muscular he was compared to the others and was nearly distracted before she gripped his hand and prepared to arm wrestle him.

“Ready…GO!”

In an impressive display, Abdor managed to stop the northern queen from bringing his arm down halfway and began to push back towards the center of the table with the three guards from earlier cheering him on.

“COME ON LAD!”

“PIN HER DOWN!!”

Scoli watched as Jewel struggled to hold him back and bit onto her handkerchief as the match continued.

“It seems I was right!” Abdor smirked.

“You truly are a powerful mare!”

“Thanks! You’re not so bad yourself!” Jewel grunted, pushing against Abdor’s arm.

“Care to make a wager?! If you win, I will carry you throughout the entirety of the Red Dunes!”

“And what do you get if you win?!” Jewel asked as she began to make headway by pushing Abdor’s arm.

“You go on a date with me!”

“WHAT?!” Scoli yelped.

“Challenge accepted.” Jewel smirked when she began to push Abdors arm down towards the table.

“You’re pretty strong for a princess!” Abdor said just before Jewel gasped in shock.

“Excuse me?!?”

“I-I meant that as a compliment!!” Abdor said as he began to lose focus.

“I-it’s just that most princesses don’t arm wrestle! You’re less feminine than the others I’ve met.”

“Ooh, he shouldn’t have said that,” Discord winced.

“LESS FEMININE?!?” Jewel yelled in anger as her grip tightened.

Before Abdor could react, Jewel pulled the centaur soldier off his chair and spun him in the air. The entire barracks spectators went slack jawed, seeing the small mare swinging a large centaur being tossed around like a rag doll. With an enraged cry, Jewel threw Abdor across the training grounds and smashed him into the wall. Jewel scoffed and blew a strand of hair out her face.

“How’s THAT for less feminine?!”

Jewel stormed off in a huff as Abdor slowly began to recover and could see stars swirling around him before coming to.

“What was that about?” He asked while his seniors sighed with disappointment and shook their heads.

“Lad, you gotta watch what you say around ladies.” One elder centaur said as they left to prepare for the trip.

Scoli shot a dirty look at Abdor and ran off to find Jewel. She eventually found her standing on a balcony with her hands balled into fists.

“Less feminine…who does he think he is?! I’m plenty feminine!” Jewel huffed.

“Jewel?” Scoli called out.

“It’s not fair, Scoli! I’m eighteen and still single, but who cares! I can have any special somepony I want! But no pony seems to want to be with me! Why?! Who cares! It’s not my fault they’re all wimps!”

“Jewel.”

“My brother and I are different! He can screw anypony he wants while I do all the important negotiations!”

“Jewel!”

“Y’know what?! I’m better off on my own! I have better things to do than-MMF?!”

In a bold display, Scoli pressed her lips against Jewel’s to silence her ranting while the young mare just stood there dumbfounded before finally giving in.

“Mmm…mmmm~.” Jewel purred before returning the kiss and instinctively pushed her tongue into Scoli’s mouth as they held each other tight.

“Mmm Jewel…” Scoli huffed as they kissed again.

Their kissing lasted another minute before Jewel went wide eyed and pulled away.

“Uh…what was that about?”

“You looked like you needed something to take your mind off the drama,” Scoli said with a smile.

“But I…but you…why?!”

“Duh? I like you.”

The sudden confession caught Jewel off guard but she felt a warm sensation build up in her chest.

“Wait, wait, wait, you like girls?”

“Yep.”

“Since when?”

“Hmm, since I was a teenager.”

“And…how would you say it’s different from liking boys?”

“I dunno, I guess I’m not as attracted to guys as I am to girls. Girls are just more appealing to me and I feel more comfortable with them, just like I am with you. Besides, you don’t have to be feminine to be attractive. I find you extremely attractive already, which is one of the reasons why I like you.”

Jewel blushed at what Scoli just told her and started to become flustered while looking away.

“Th-that’s crazy! Why would you like me? I’m not like you, I don’t attend tea parties, I prefer to work in the fields or go camping a-and aside from my chest, there’s nothing really attractive about me-EEP!! Forget that last part!!” She begged, making Scoli laugh before she was kissed again.

“Mmf!”

“Jewel. I like you because of those things, you aren’t bound to the traditions of an everyday princess, you can be your own pony.” Scoli said with a warm smile.

Jewel’s blush only brightened and the pounding in her chest quickened. This gargoyle girl had confessed her feelings and it was a very heartfelt feeling. Before she had not been able to come to terms with her sexuality, but this might have been the push she needed.

“You’d still like me after all this?” Jewel asked, grasping Scoli’s hands.

“Yep, now and for the foreseeable future.”

“I’m…not exactly sure what to do now.”

“That’s fine, we can take it slow.”

Jewel nodded and hugged Scoli and she hugged her back. A smile crept on Jewel’s lips as they stayed like that for a good long while.

A Few Days Later

“RRRAAAHHHH!!”

CRASH!

“Ugh…again with this,” Rainbow groaned along with Applejack as they lay in bed.

The castle of Canterlot had been less active since the war efforts were finally leaning in the alliance’s favor somewhat. One would think the atmosphere would be more calm and collected, if not for a certain few pregnant females.

“Luta’s mood swings?” Applejack deadpanned as she dragged her hand down her face.

“I guess we can be thankful it’s not Celestia and Luna this time, but I swear I’ll kill our human stallion for knocking that doe up,” Rainbow grumbled. Both mares sat up and looked down at their very bloated bellies. “You three better keep quiet as you have been.”

“Now Rainbow, don’t forget we were like that in our first pregnancy.” Applejack sighed but could not deny Rainbow was right about Luta’s mood swings.

A few of the servants helped get them into their morning attire since they were almost near their due date and didn’t want to risk any stress to the babies but Rainbow didn’t seem to mind as her mane was combed and she was given some tea to relax her.

“Man I’d kill for a cup of joe right now…” the pegasus groaned.

“Sorry, my queen, but caffeine is bad for the babies.” One servant said while placing their breakfast cart in front of them.

“I know but these little guys are so rowdy.” She sighed while rubbing her belly and smiled at her growing twins.

“Aurora, Tyr, I can’t wait to meet you both.” She smiled when one of them kicked.

“I don’t care what you say! I want some grog right now!” The doors slammed open to reveal Luta and her pregnant belly, followed by her sister Thora. Behind them was an elderly doe who the two queens recognized as their mother, Bera.

“Sister, would you please calm down?!” Thora sighed.

“Shut it?! Where’s the grog?!” Luta demanded.

“Young lady! You sit down this instant!” Bera snapped.

“I didn’t come all this way to visit just to listen to your complaints! It was your decision to carry this child, and you must see it through properly and not throw a fit every hour on the hour!”

“But mother-”

“No buts and no grog! You trying to kill your first child before it’s born?!” Bera snapped when Luta finally settled down.

“Now just sit down while I fix us some breakfast, Thora dear please go wake the king?”

“Yes mother.”

“Knowing that boy, he spent the whole night practicing for his honeymoon.”

Bera was not far off the mark as Beorn was in his chambers with his herd who were taking turns waking him as Crysta gently rode him while letting out a pleasured sigh.

“Is this how our mornings are gonna be?” Beorn asked while groping her chest.

“Only if we feel like it~.” Crysta said as she bent down for a kiss.

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK!

“Oh, Bear-Bear! Come down for breakfast! You can practice your dirty dancing all you want once you’re married!” Thora called out.

“Uh just a few more minutes, auntie!” Beorn shouted back as Crysta began riding him faster.

“Fine but the rest of you girls hurry down for breakfast!” Thora said as the rest of his herd got out of bed.

“Have fun Crysta~.” Deshi said while getting on her underwear and morning robes.

“Mm I could use a break.” Lithos sighed while giving her fiancé a quick kiss.

“One for the road?” Azurys asked while presenting her juicy rump to him for a quick smack that made her giggle as she left with her cousins.

“Are you really-nng-okay with this Crysta?” Beorn managed to ask as he reached his limit.

“Yes…I know, ah~, it’s early, but I don’t want to wait any longer!” Crysta bounced up and down more fervently as she leaned down to whisper in his ear.

“Give me your children, my king~.”

Beorn growled as he clasped both Crysta’s cheeks and pounded upwards, making her cry out in pure bliss. With one last thrust upwards, he managed to push past her walls and into her womb and flooded it with his baby batter. Torrents of cum erupted into Crysta’s womb until it found its mark, which was her egg. The millions of sperm cells enveloped her egg and eagerly went to work to sow themselves and give her what she wanted most from her future husband.

“Our child…will be strong and prideful as his father~,” Crysta panted.

“Or as kind and beautiful as her mother~.” Beorn said as they kissed one last time and got out of bed.

“Crysta…are you really okay with me having more than one wife?” He asked as they finished freshening up.

“Of course, I don’t mind sharing you with those girls.” Crysta said while fixing her hair before joining him in the dining hall.

“Well well, look who decided to join us.” Bera smirked while the ones gathered at the table gave a few short chuckles.

“Just wanted to make sure we looked appropriate,” Beorn said with a knowing smile towards Crysta.

“Young man, not at the table,” Bera lectured.

“Y-Yes, Granny Bera.”

Back in the throne room, Celestia and Luna were dealing with their own pregnancy problems. Similar to Rainbow Dash and Applejack, their due dates were also quite near and their bellies were even more bloated than before. It also didn’t help since milk accumulated in their breast, which made their bosoms even larger than before. The two royal sisters were attending court again until Luna caught sight of a few nobles.

“Sister, they’re staring again…” Luna muttered quietly to Celestia.

“I see them.” Celestia sighed as the day court began.

“Good morning gentlemen. I thank you all for coming to this meeting.” Celestia said as the meeting began.

“Apologies for not standing, as you know the condition of my sister and I restrict our movements.”

“No apologies needed, your majesty.” Said Madame Goldrush who was in attendance.

“If it pleases you, your highness, we have reports from all over the front that Blueblood’s forces have halted their advance.” Fancy Pants reported while fixing his monocle.

“Despite the heavy casualties, the war has at last tipped in our favor and we hope to see its end by this winter.”

“Here here!” Another noble said as they gave a short round of applause.

“Thank you for the report Fancy Pants.” Said Marshall who was seated between his two wives while holding their hands.

“I only wish that…” He would say no more, knowing it would upset his wives but Luna understood.

“We know darling, we wish our son was here too…”

“Damn that coward Saladin, using a boy as a hostage. We all pray for his safe return.”

“We thank you.” Celestia replied before her husband stood up and had the guards bring him a small map showing details of the frontlines.

“Our main concern now is not Blueblood and the rebels but the ever present threat growing in the north.”

“The undead.” Fancy Pants said with Marshall nodding in acknowledgement.

“Our scouts report droves of them marching towards Equestria, raising the bodies of every soldier left to rot on the field.”

“How many do they have?” Celestia wondered.

“Nearing at least eight thousand, and growing.”

“Curses…at this rate, we’ll be overwhelmed. Even if Apple Jewel and Twilight manage to accomplish their diplomatic mission at Midnight Palace,” Marshall cursed.

Perhaps…I may be of assistance? Marshall flinched when he heard a dark voice in his head.

Calm yourself, Lord Regent, it is simply I, Lucifer.

What do you want, demon? Marshall growled as he kept a straight face during court.

If you do not wish for your home to be destroyed, I could always empower your troops. Just as I have done with you… Lucifer cackled darkly in Marshall’s mind.

Absolutely not! Marshall snapped in his head when the doors burst open as Beorn marched into the room.

“Sorry I’m late, Council, Uncle Marshall, Aunties.”

“Really, young Beorn, if you’re going to be king you must learn to be on time.” Madam Gold Rush lectured.

“Again, I apologize. What’s the situation?”

“Well aside from the massive army of the undead growing, we basically fought Blueblood to a stalemate.” Fancy Pants said while Beorn looked over the map.

“Bluebloods province is here, in Trottingham where most of the other barons have fled. I heard that there’s a bit of a rebellion going on, a band of rogues who swipe their war profits and hand them to the poor, they are led by a master marksman.”

“Sounds like someone who might be an ally.” Marshall said as they continued to plan the upcoming battles.

“Our best bet would be to push through the center here while the rest of the army keeps the enemy at bay on the eastern and western front then it’s a straight shot to Blueblood.”

“But sire you barely won last time and with Sombra now infused into the traitor prince’s body, how do you expect to win?” A councilman questioned as Beorn ran a hand over his eyepatch.

“I’ll take his head no matter what…and if he is possessed by a tyrant from a thousand years ago, then Kingslayer will have twice the banquet when I kill them both.”

“Just like your father, never afraid to take a challenge.” Fancy Pants complimented.

“Now that we have this settled, there is something else we must discuss,” Luna said as Marshall helped her to her hooves.

“As you can see, my sister’s and my pregnancy have almost reached their end. My triplets and my sister’s daughter will be born within approximately a month, or so. So until further notice, we shall temporarily step down from ruling Equestria and our assistant Raven will be joining us. We shall be confided in our chambers, as to ensure our children’s health and safe birth.”

“But who will lead us in your stead while you three are bedridden?” A noble asked.

“Our husband, Lord Regent of Equestria, shall temporarily take the throne. He will watch over Equestria just as we have,” Celestia said, smiling at her husband.

“If you do not have any objections, that is?”

“None at all, your majesties, and congratulations again.” Fancy Pants smiled along with the council.

“Now we just need to focus our efforts on getting Imperius back, if I could I would join them on the mission.”

“No Beorn, your place is here.” Marshall said sternly as the young king sighed.

“I know but he’s my friend…”

“We understand but let your uncle and Lady Rarity handle this. You’ve done plenty by securing an alliance with King Aspen and the deer of the Enchanted Forest.”

“Very well…” Beorn sighed.

“If that is all, then our meeting is adjourned,” Celestia said.

The group stood from their seats and exited the council room. Beorn sighed as he went back to join his wives until he glanced out the window and saw Hreidar in the training grounds. He was sparring with the young deer buck, Bramble, and Dyani was sitting by and watching them. Beorn saw Hreidar reach Bramble and the young buck ran up and tried to tackle him. Instead, Hreidar scooped the boy up and spun around. Beorn smiled at the display and Dyani giggled as she walked over to Hreidar. Beorn’s smile only widened when he saw Hreidar and Dyani share a kiss.

“Heh, good on you, brother,” Beorn said to himself as he walked along. During his trek, Beorn spotted a mare exiting a bedroom. It took him a minute, but his eyes soon widened when he recognized the mare as Trixie herself. The mare had a sad frown as she looked up and noticed Beorn approaching her.

“O-Oh no…” Trixie tried to back away but was met with a pillar in her path as Beorn continued his approach.

“L-Lord Beorn…w-wait, p-please! I-it wasn’t my fault! D-Don’t hurt me!”

“Hurt you? Hurt you?! I SHOULD KILL YOU!!” Beorn roared as he reached for Kingslayer.

“Do you have any idea what you’ve done to my family? WHAT YOU TOOK FROM US?!”

“I’m sorry!” Trixie whimpered with fearful tears running down her face.

“Sorry won’t bring my father back!!”

“BEORN!! Stand down!” Shouted the voice of Shining Armor approaching with two royal guards.

“Why is she here?! She’s the enemy!!”

“I’ll explain later but right now I need you to calm down.”

Beorn gripped the handle of Kingslayer to the point where he thought he’d snap it in two. Trixie sank to her knees and covered her head and trembled in fear as Beorn loomed over her like an executioner. His eye burned red and he grit his teeth hard, but he slowly released his grip from his sword.

“Stand up.” Trixie peeked from her arms and up at Beorn.

“STAND UP!!”

Trixie yelped as quickly stood up and Beorn stepped closer so she could look at him dead in his red eyes.

“I am letting you live, hear me? You are a dead mare walking, but only I allow you to live. You’re not alive because of Shining, not because of the princesses, or whatever gods watching down on you. You’re alive because I, and I alone, say so. So you’d better heed my words. Step out of line in the slightest, and I have your head.”

Trixie frantically nodded yes before he stormed off now completely infuriated while Shining Armor helped her to stand.

“Good thing I showed up when I did, who knows what might have happened.” Shining Armor said as Trixie calmed herself.

“Thank you, Sir Shining Armor…”

“It was no trouble. Come on, Starlight said she’s ready to meet with you.”

Trixie nodded and wiped her face as she followed Shining. Her legs shook a little as she walked but kept her pace. Anyone who saw her gave her dirty looks and hateful glares, but she kept her eyes down so as to not look at them. Shining led Trixie to one of the meeting rooms and opened the doors. Trixie saw her old friend, Starlight, sitting in one of the cushioned chairs and sipping on her tea. Something else Trixie noticed was Starlight’s belly was swollen, which surprised her. Starlight looked up and saw Trixie and already felt a flurry of emotions run through the both of them.

“I’ll let you two have some time alone.”

Shining closed the door and Trixie swallowed hard as she slowly walked to the other side of the coffee table and sat down. An uncomfortable silence filled the room as Trixie fidgeted in her seat.

“Um…hello, Starlight.” Trixie waved a little at Starlight, who kept her arms crossed under her chest.

“Hello…Trixie.” Starlight said with a straight face while rubbing her belly.

“I heard from Shining Armor that you were a parent already…”

“A lot happened while you were gone.” Starlight said when Trixie noticed her wedding ring.

“You got married!?” Trixie gasped and the awkwardness slowly fading.

“Yes, Sunburst proposed to me a month after the war, we got married in the Crystal Empire and a year after, we had our first foal. Flare is her name.” Starlight said when Sunburst came into the room with a little bundle in his arms.

“Speaking of which.”

“Hi hon, she just woke from her nap.” Sunburst said while gently giving the foal to Starlight.

“Hello my sweet filly did you have a nice nap?” Starlight cooed to her little one as she yawned.

Sunburst noticed Trixie and frowned.

“Oh, hello Trixie.”

“Hi, Sunburst,” Trixie said, then sighed.

“Look, I know what you two are thinking.”

“Do you?” Starlight said as she held her daughter.

“Fifteen years.” Trixie flinched. “Fifteen years, I waited for you to come to your senses and come home. Fifteen years, I always defended you when other ponies said horrible things about you. Fifteen years…I thought you wouldn’t stoop lower than actually staying with Blueblood. And then, Wulfric was killed…and you still stood by that traitor’s side.”

Trixie frowned and her ears drooped. “I also have suffered. We had a daughter together, but he cast her aside. He used her to gain power.” Trixie clenched her fists as tears seeped from her eyes. “I saw him…I saw him defiling my baby girl right in front of me! His drive for power and conquering Equestria has deprived him of his moral compass! He no longer is the stallion I thought cared for me!”

The shouting caused little Flare to start crying a little as Starlight quickly soothed her little one and began bouncing her in her arms.

“Shh sh sh, it’s okay. Mommy’s here.” Starlight said with a smile as the filly looked at her mother and smiled.

“There we go.”

Starlight then asked Trixie to explain everything and was horrified at how far Blueblood had gone in his mad quest for power, even Sunburst was disgusted by the atrocities he committed against his own family.

“I suppose you were right Starlight…I should have left him years ago…” Trixie said with a saddened expression when Starlight gave a warm smile and scooched closer to her old friend.

“Do you want to hold her?” She asked while letting Trixie look at her daughter.

“Oh, I couldn’t,” Trixie tried to say.

“I insist.” Starlight handed her baby to Trixie.

Trixie looked down at the filly as she giggled and held her little arms up at her. Trixie started crying again as she held her finger out for Flare and she grasped it.

“I-I’m sorry…” Trixie whimpered.

“I’m so sorry…”

“We know, Trixie.” Starlight and Sunburst embraced Trixie in a hug as the mare wept.

“It’s gonna be okay, Trix,” Starlight said.

Later in the Night

Saddle Arabia

The cool breeze blew across the city of Saddle Arabia and most were asleep. It had been a riveting few days as preparations for the main event of the tournament was to begin the next day. Many bets were wagered, the combatants trained to their limits, and Saladin could only gloat about the whole event.

Far off on the outskirts of the palace, a lone hooded figure walked through the quiet streets. He kept his pace forward until he spied a zebra stallion enjoying a smoke outside an alleyway. The hooded figure approached the stallion and cleared his throat.

“Are you of the mercenary guilds of Saddle Arabia?” The hooded figure asked.

“What’s it to you, dumbass? You want me to kill somepony?” The zebra scoffed.

The hooded figure reached into his robes and pulled out a hefty bag of bits and showed it to the zebra.

“I hear you’re one of the lieutenants. Kinda strange for such a high ranking officer of the guild to be in a dump like this, but that’s not the point. These bits are yours if you call the head honcho on your holo crystal. I wanna have a word with him.”

“And uh…what’s to stop me from just taking these bits and leaving you for dead?” The merc asked while bringing out a knife but as he grinned he spotted two bright amber eyes glowing from under the hood and heard the distinct sound of a gun clicking from under the cloak.

“Right…hold up.” He said while frantically activating his crystal.

“Boss, we got a client.” He said in a rushed tone.

“Grrr, this had better be good…” A voice grumbled.

The zebra held up his crystal and an image appeared before the hooded figure. A bulky zebra stallion, wearing steel plated shoulder pauldrons, thick leather trousers, and had two large falchions strapped to his hip. He had scars all over his body and half his mane was shaved off. Next to him we’re two zebra mares wearing skimpy clothing and rubbing his shoulders. The zebra was in the middle of eating a meal when he glared at the hooded figure.

“And who the hell are you to interrupt my dinner?!” The zebra barked.

The hooded figure reached up and pulled off his hood, revealing Lock’s face.

“The Devil’s Hand, that’s who.”

“Well, well, WELL, the great Dimitri Lockdrom himself.” The zebra smirked, his mood suddenly improving.

“You’re quite the legend. So to what do I owe this surprise call?” He asked while popping a grape into his mouth.

“It took me a while to find a way to contact you, let alone debating whether I even give you the time of day. You and your guilds have been under Blueblood’s payroll since the start of this war. Why sweat loyalty to him anyway?”

“Loyalty?! Ha! The great Zalik ain’t loyal to no body!” Zalik scoffed.

“The little prick pays pretty well, more than we ever got paid in the past.”

“So you only care about who pays you better?” Lock questioned.

“That, and it depends on how it benefits me and my guilds.”

Spoken like a true merc. Lock thought.

It’s a good thing I’ve faced scum like him during the military.

“If that’s the case, what if I were to offer you something that trumps whatever Blueblood is paying you?”

“If it’s not one of those princess bitches who will become my personal whore, or a dragon’s trove of treasure, then I ain’t interested,” Zalik scoffed.

“Better.” Lock snapped his fingers and a plume of flames appeared in his hand. From the flames, a fruit appeared in his palm.

“I offer you the power to subdue all who oppose you, along with the gift of immortality.”

“So that’s it…” Zalik grinned while looking at the fruit.

“That’s the fruit that gives you incredible powers?”

“One of many.” Lock said while making sure he got a good look at it.

“How do I know that ain’t a fake?”

“It’s no fake, you’ll find no other fruit like this in Equestria. I’m offering you a choice, take this and the money and leave Blueblood or…I track you down and kill you myself.” Lock said while the merc holding the crystal gave a nervous gulp.

“Heh…hahahahaha!! I like this guy, he knows how to do business.” Zalik laughed while leaning back and pulling one of his girls onto his lap.

“So what’s the job? I know you ain’t just giving this stuff for free.”

“No job.” Zalik arched his brow as he fondled the mare’s breasts.

“All you have to do is cut ties with Blueblood completely, and swear on your name that you and your guilds won’t step another foot in Equestria. Whatever business you have outside its borders are none of my concern. Swear to that, and the fruit is yours. Do we have an accord?”

Zalik grinned before giving his girl a kiss and fondling her body as she gave a few moans.

“It’s a deal, and in honor of our new…partnership I should tell ya what the sultan’s got brewing in the palace.”

“…I’m listening.” Lock said, taking a gamble on the word of a mercenary.

“The sultan’s got some kind of project in the dungeons below the palace and I heard that his champion is gonna be part of that project. Some kind of super soldier…” Zalik’s voice seemed to trail off and his gaze became distant for a moment.

“You better hope that prince doesn’t face off against whatever monster they’re making down there, my friend. There are some things that even I am afraid of.” With those last words, Zalik cut off the feed and Lock handed over the fruit and bits to the lieutenant.

“Don’t eat that, unless you wanna be hunted for the rest of your life,” Lock warned, making the merc gulp and nod before departing. Lock pulled over his hood and looked up at the moon and stars.

“It’s for the best…”

Meanwhile, back at the palace dungeons, a group of guards were escorting Zamnir to meet with the Sultan. The Minotaur was shackled with thick chains and had a bored expression until he was led into a chamber, cut off from the rest of the palace. Waiting for him was the Sultan himself, along with a team of medical staff who wore gloves, masks, and aprons. Beside them was an operating table and objects that looked like pieces of strange-looking armor.

“Zamnir, good to see you,” Saladin said, stroking his beard.

“What’s this about, Saladin? I was in the middle of plowing my girls,” Zamnir scoffed.

“This is just to help give you an edge.” One of the doctors said as the others began strapping the armor onto Zamnirs body.

“Hm. Not a bad fit but I prefer the color red.” The minotaur joked as he was laid on the operating table and suddenly restrained by the locks.

“What the?! WHAT IS THIS?!?” Zamnir shouted before the other two doctors pulled his head back by the horns as a helmet fitting his size was slowly lowered down.

“Don’t worry, this’ll only hurt for a moment…or three.” The sultan grinned as he watched the prisoner struggle in vain to get loose.

“Get off me! LET GO OF ME!!” Zamnir said as the helmet was slowly placed over his head and he began to feel his face burning as if the helm were fresh out of the forge.

“Let’s see that little pest land a blow on my new and improved champion.” Saladin laughed evilly through the pained screams of Zamnir.

End.