Among the Kitsune

Chapters

Chapter One: The arrival
Chapter Two: The Party
Chapter Three: Nature Vs Nurture
Chapter Four: Cold Day In Sweet Apple Acres
Chapter Five: Remnants of the Past
Chapter Six:

Chapter One: The arrival

Chapter One

The Arrival

Since ancient times the legendary but rarely seen kitsune have been believed to possess superior intelligence, long life, and magical powers akin to unicorn magic. The word “kitsune” is most often translated as “fox spirit”. However, this doesn’t mean that all kitsune are ghosts, nor that they are fundamentally different from regular foxes. Because the word spirit is used to reflect a state of knowledge or enlightenment, all long-lived foxes gain supernatural abilities.

There are two common classifications of kitsune: The zenko (good foxes) are benevolent, celestial foxes associated with the Inari foxes. On the other hand, the yako (field foxes, also called nogitsune) tend to be mischievous, or even malicious.

One of the physical and obvious characteristics of the kitsune is that the legends portray them as having as many as nine tails. Generally, the age and power of the fox is indicated by the number of tails; in fact, some folktales have hinted that a fox will only grow additional tails after it lived for an hundred years.

The moment a kitsune gains its ninth tail, its fur changes either to white or gold.These kyūbi no kitsune Or nine-tailed foxes as it’s translated gain the abilities to see and hear anything that is happening anywhere in the world. Other tales credit the kyūbi no kitsune with having infinite wisdom. After reaching 1,000 years of age and gaining its ninth tail, a kitsune turns a golden color, becoming a 'Tenko' (celestial fox), the most powerful form of the kitsune before it ascends to the heavens.

Of course, all of this is just a theory, since not a single pony, or creature for that matter, has ever seen a kitsune and lived to tell the tale. They’re as rare as the legendary ice dragons, whom are rumored to live in the coldest of regions, far beyond Yakyakistan or the Crystal Empire. It’s such a disappointment that there isn’t much more to discuss on the subject, but I personally believe the kitsune are still out there. Though while I do hold onto these beliefs, I also wonder and worry how powerful the kitsune are and if they pose a threat to Equestria or the world in general.

Star Swirl the Bearded and Commander O’ Saka Of the Neghpony royal army.

Spike and Twilight were in Canterlot for two reasons: the first was to spend time with their respected family, while the second reason; was that Princess Celestia had called Twilight to address the new students in her school of gifted unicorns. The polished copper stone streets, the unique shops and vendors that littered the said streets in the event of potential customers wanting to buy the items that were on sale. Ponies walked around the streets wearing beautiful clothing made from famous designers with some taking time to shop in one of the many stores with others just wanting to get where they need to in this pristine city.

It was close to noon on yet another beautiful sunny day that Celestia has brought forth with her power over the sun. Both she and her younger sister, Princess Luna, we're glad to have Twilight and Spike over for a little get-together. Something that these days was kind of rare since they were all busy with there day-to-day schedules. Twilight could vouch for that, as she had the responsibilities of running her school of friendship as well as solving mundane problems that often take 30 minutes to complete. Such duties include: writing down lesson plans for her students in the school of friendship, as well as making trips to various places in Equestria to educate the importance of friendship and how stuff like clouds and others wonders are made to make ponies life a bit easier. While he wasn’t a teacher per se, Spike assisted Twilight and any of the elements in any way he could, from getting them coffee, tea, and supplies for the daily lessons to giving them shoulder and back rubs if the stress the students provided.

When discussing the royal sisters’ duties, Celestia has to make public appearances, sign various documents, all while throwing ridiculous proposals and outrages complaints from various nobles to the trash. Luna, on the other hand, did pretty much the same thing at night, only the extra duty excluded from her sister’s schedule, was entering the dreams of others in order to comfort the sleeping ponies and protect them from nightmares throughout the night.

The three alicorns and teenage dragon were currently in the luscious royal garden. The flowers bloomed under the light of the sun, making the scenery an even more beautiful sight to behold, save for the moonlight roses, a blue rose that bloomed only under the light of the moon. Celestia, Luna, Twilight, and Spike were on a blanket made from the finest silk in Equestria. Normally, Celestia would be wearing her royal white dress, showcasing her perfect hips as well as her cutie mark and bountiful chest. But today, she was wearing a sleeveless yellow shirt that covered her upper body in a triangle pattern leaving her naval area exposed, a pair of black jeans that would surprise anyone but to those closest to her yet it didn’t help that despite fitting her, showcase her plump rear which every pony seem to found over.

Normally Luna would be in her own dream world by this time, she, however, didn’t want to miss this opportunity to be with both Twilight and Spike, especially the latter. Unlike her sister, the lunar monarch wore a black top with the symbol of a starry night sky with a full moon. Luna wasn’t as big as her sister, but her figure made up for the lack of breast. She wore matching pants which were a bit tight but still allowed her to move around without them tearing.

Twilight wore a black short sleeve shirt and much like Celestia it exposed her navel region. That was only when she was stretching out her arms. The lavender mare also wore a plaid skirt that matches her mane and tail that reach up to her tights. She also wore a black leather choker with a violet six-pointed star hanging from the center and thigh high stocking only with her hooves exposed. Out of the four princesses, Twilight was the smallest. She stood about 4 foot 11 inches tall, an c in the breast department, and like the other princesses, she had a round bottom but not as big as the others. The princess of friendship may not know it but others around her knew about the sex appeal she was giving off. Stallions and a few mares would stare or talk how cute Twilight look in her school uniforms. Yet Twilight pay no mind to them. Currently, she was calmly reading the book on Starswirl's theories on ancient tomes, and runes.

Spike was sitting there munching on some gems of different color and variables. From ruby to sapphire, emeralds to amethyst. The young teenage dragon wore a pair of blue jeans with a hole for his tail, a lime green t-shirt with holes in the back to accommodate for his wings. Over the years, despite him being an adult in pony standards the dragon teen had the appearance of a baby dragon. He stood about 3 foot 6 inches tall. This concerned both Twilight and Celestia as they wonder why Spike wasn’t growing. He was already 19 years of age. He would at least from what Ember told the princesses to be as tall Big Mac who stood about 5 feet 11 inches tall or taller. There were some theories as to why Spike maintain his short stature. One theory suggested that him being raised by ponies had affected his growth, another suggested that because dragons were carnivores that he requires meat. No pony knew for sure if those theories were true or not.

Spike for all his life knew that dragons only ate gems for nutrients. As he has gotten older he found out that dragons consume other things then gems. In front of the group were cakes, donuts, gems, and a few others treats but mostly cakes for the four of them to enjoy.

“So young Spike,” Luna asked with a devious grin, “how are things with that fair maiden you have been fonding over about?” The question caught the attention of the white alicorn who giggled and play along.

“Why yes, Spikey. How is Ra-, I mean your maiden doing? I hope she is returning your affections.” Celestia grinned. Both the sisters found it cute to embarrass the young drake, thus making it a game to see how red they could turn Spike’s face. Bonus points if they can make him bleed from the nose. This, of course, has happened on a couple of occasions. Celestia asking him for one of his famous back rubs, during the times she requested him for personal time with. The white alicorn would lay on her belly with nothing but a bra and panties. Because this made it hard for Spike to forces on the task he made a custom mask to contain that amount of blood that pours from his nose. That however proved to be useless when she removed her bra and panties leaving the alicorn bare in front of the drake.

The parts of polish marble floor were painted red that day.

Luna for the most parts would sometimes flash her breast and butt to him, knocking him out for a while. The lunar monarch always has plans to turn Spike red. She purposely leaves her clothes on the floor when Spike ever wants to play games with her, come up with stipulations that sometimes ending in him on the floor. The most famous one was when she and another mare made out in front of him.

Luna believes she had over did it when Spike was rush to the hospital for the massive amount of blood he lost. She would also visit his dreams and find some pretty interesting lewd things within them, with most of them being about a white unicorn with a purple mane and tail.

“S-S-She’s doing fine actually,” The drake blushed while looking down at the pearl he was munching on. As much as he enjoys hanging out with Celestia and Luna there are times where he wishes they would stop teasing him on his crush.

“Aww, don’t be like that young Spiky, we think it’s cute,” Luna giggled, “Besides, I know what lurks in your dreams. . .Spiky.” She said playfully teasing the purple dragon. Spike gulped as Luna continued much to Spike’s displeasure. “Oh yes, you and her on the beach with her, she’s laying down, her top undone, her white bareback to you, the bottom of her bikini riding up her butt.” The two alicorns grinned.

“Could you stop-” The drake was interpreted by something in his throat. He covered his mouth to prevent the flames within him to come out and burn Luna clothes, coat and skin, though in the minds of the celestial monarchs it appears that Spike was disgusted by Luna’s description of the mare in question.

“Spike it’s not only rude and kind of offensive to think of a lady like that. What if-”

She was cut off as Spike let out an especially loud burp, accompanied by his green flame, lucky for the lunar monarch she moved away to avoid getting burned. The heat from the flames scorched some of the luscious green grass, giving it a brownish tan with smalls bits of ember clinging to the charred grass blades. “Huh?” The dragon rubbed the back of his head before picking up the scroll. This caught the attention of Twilight who lay her body on the ground and looked at the Neatly wrapped scroll was neat with a symbol of an eye in the middle.

“It’s not from Ember or Cadence.” The drake begin. “Shining Armor, nor Thorax doesn't know the spell to send messages via dragon flame,” Spike stated. Only three ponies knew how to send messages via Dragon flame; Celestia, Luna after she returned, and Celestia taught her how to use it in case of an emergency or urgent matter.

Spike much to the princesses curiosity opened the letter and begin to read.

Dear Princesses of Equestria

I’m writing to you because we, The Kitsune race, have remained hidden amongst the shadows while the world went through terrible events which would result to the near extinction of all life on this planet and we did nothing to prevent them. The Lunar Princess returning after a thousand years of banishment to bring the everlasting night to your land, while the rest of the world burn in the hot sun. The return of Discord who almost turned the entire world into his personal playground. The mana stealing monster Tirek who escaped from Tartarus and stole all pony magic to not only take over the world but to destroy us by taking away my mana.
What was my greatest regret was not stopping the mad unicorn who caused a time paradox and destroyed reality as we know it. No longer will we sit in the shadows and watch as the world we share is in constant danger.

As an emperor, the safety of my citizens comes before all. But I want to open my borders and show that we’re as friendly as the ponies in your land, and it would be in our best interests if we come together and discuss trades and, if possible, an alliance.

After all, you ponies cherish friendship more than any other creatures residing in this world.

Hoping to hear a reply soon,

Emperor Seer of Vulpes Terra.

P.S. If you’re wondering how I knew about dragon mail and how I knew said dragon was with you, let’s just say I know a bit about draconic magic. To send me a reply, just picture a red fox with nine tails, a black choker a jade to the left, and a amber on the right.

“Emperor Seer? Vulpes Terra?” Spike asked. “What’s Vulpes Terra?” Spike asked passing the letter to Celestia.

Celestia took the letter and read it over. “I believe it translates to ‘Land of Foxes’, Spike, but I wonder why now?” The white alicorn asked looking at the letter.

Twilight smiled and said, “Oh this is amazing! A new race that was believed to be an old pony’s tale existed. The information, the culture, the history, the magic they processes and the knowledge!” The purple alicorn grinned with excitement as stars took shape in her eyes.

“That still opens some questions, like how did he know a dragon was here among us? Or the events that transpired in Equestria?” Luna pondered. “This seems too convenient.”

“Those are questions we must ask this emperor ourselves,” Celestia sighed, “There isn’t much information about the Kitsune from what ponies know, only that their magic can rival that of an alicorn, and even that is merely a theory.”

“Given the context of the letter, It is safe to conclude that they possess the knowledge of magic.” Luna said as she got up from her seat and readied her horn. “I fear this emperor may have sent a few spies within our land, and if possible in other lands as well.”

“I agree with you Luna, and if he indeed sent them within our borders, then the emperor may already know all of our secrets,” Celestia said as she placed her hand under her chin to think. “Until we know more of his motives, we’ll have to play along. Interview the castle staff and guards Luna then use a detection spell on them. If they can change like the changeling then we’ll know what his true motives are.” With a nod and a flash of midnight blue, the alicorn of the night was gone.

“Spike.” Celestia called out.

“Yes?” Spike replied.

“Take a letter.” She said as a quill and scroll appeared suddenly in front of the dragon.

The teenage dragon turned to Twilight, who just stuck out her tongue playfully. She always told Spike to have a quill and paper ready in case something urgent happened and this was one of those times. Though in his defense, Spike didn’t know anything major was going to happen so he thought there would be no point, but Twilight, being the studious mare she was, insisted the young dragon take a quill and scroll.

That and he had just lost ten bits.

Clearing her throat, Celestia begins to speak.

Dear Emperor Seer,

We are delighted to hear you want to form an alliance and we’d be happy to meet with each other. To be honest, we don’t know much about the Kitsune. Me and my sister will clear up our schedule next week for this momentous meeting. We do hope to see you soon.

Sincerely,
Princess Celestia of Equestria

After finishing, Spike rolled up the scroll, closed his eyes, and imagined what the letter told him to. It only took a few minutes before he finally pictured a nine-tailed red fox wearing a choker with a gem on each side, a jade on the left and an amber on the right. Then he let out his emerald green flame, which turned the letter into green ash that floated toward the west.

“And sent,” The dragon said proudly before gaining a worried expression, “Do you really think they sent spies to Equestria? What if they know my biggest secret, OUR secret? finished the dragon, worried that he might tell the ponies about his relationship with the royal family.

“I’m afraid so Spike,” Celestia grimly stated.

“Don’t worry Spike, he may know, but even if he tells the whole population of Equestria, we’ll be right here with you.” Twilight said reassuring the small dragon with a hug.

“She’s right, no matter what happens, if he chooses to expose us, it won’t change the fact that Luna and I will always love you Spike, as well as the Sparkles and your friends.” Celestia said in a motherly tone as she joined in to hug Spike herself. Spike gave a reassuring smile before wrapping his claws around the princesses to return the gesture.

“Than-” Before Spike could finish, he felt something get caught in his throat. Turning his head to the side, the dragon let out a loud burp, accompanied by green flames, which formed another scroll. Using her magic, Twilight picked up the scroll and begin to read it aloud.

I'm pleased to hear a reply, and that we can discuss the trade and an alliance between nations. A week from now, I, along with four of my elite guards, will appear before you and will stay for a week and a half for an equestrian experience at high noon. Until then, please refrain from using the dragon as a mail servant to ask me questions about the Kitsune. I’ll tell you all about it when we arrive. Also, believe it or not, dragons can choke if a letter or package gets caught within their throat, or suffer from painful throat contractions by receiving too much mail at once.

Sincerely,
Emperor Seer.

P.S. To clarify, I do not have spies within your borders, so I would appreciate if you can tell your sister to call off the search and save yourself from a headache.

During the week after the last letter the emperor had sent, Celestia and Luna ordered the guards to keep a close eye on the ponies that enter and exit the castle grounds and post them near the air dock and train station within the city. and report any suspicious activities. Despite the emperor saying that he hasn’t sent any spies in Equestria, that did not serve to alleviate their fears. Sadly, there were no suspicious activities within Canterlot other than an illegal sex ring underneath the estate of a famous entrepreneur name Gold Touch, second only to Fancy Pants in nobility and third most riches stallion behind the Rich Family and a couple of drug bust here and there.

Luna used a spell that reveals one's true self, canceling out any transformation or illusion spells the spy was used to pose as one of the royal guards. This, however, came up emptier than when she ented into ponies dreams, seeing if they had any information that would lead them into a confession.

When the day of the foxes arrival came, the three princesses waited in anticipation. The castle in Canterlot was clean as always, but it shone as brightly as the noon sun with the rays hitting the marble stone walls. Despite the lower morale due to some rumors getting out about a spy being present at the city. Celestia on her end used a mind-clearing spell in a last-ditch effort to expose the spy. However, much like with her sister, this came up fruitless.

The group remained optimistic about the situation and continued to wait patiently by the castle gate. The letter the emperor sent stated the time where he would be arriving and that he was planning to stay in Equestria for a week to experience ‘the pony lifestyle’ as he put it. The guards were stationed by the air docks and train stations for when he does arrive he along with his guards be escorted to the castle however there wasn’t any word on a scheduled train or any ships in the air coming to port.

Celestia wore her white sleeveless robe-like dress with a golden belt that prevented it from opening and revealing anything that she didn't want ponies to see along with a pair of matching white stockings and golden shoes. The dress itself reached down towards her legs that broke apart to reveal her thick thighs. And her golden shoes.

Luna wore a midnight purple and black dress that reached to her thighs, black thigh-high stockings, and her black metal shoes.

Twilight wore a purple and yellow dress that Rarity made for her in case she had princess duties to attend to. It fit but was a bit tight in the chest department, which showed off her bust to make it look bigger.

“It’s been about five minutes already, where is this emperor?” Twilight asked looking at the time. It was five minutes past noon and there were no foxes.

“Patience Twilight, I’m sure he-” Celestia was interrupted when an outline of a circle appeared inside the castle gate. A crimson mist formed within the circle along with a small dot that seemed to expand, revealing another location in its entirety. Cherry blossoms fell like snow as it landed softly on the ground. Like the gardens in Canterlot, the grass was green and luscious. A gentle breeze pushes the trees causing most of the pinkish white petals to fall upon the ground. A three-story castle that resembled Japonese architecture sat in the background. The stars shone brightly in the night sky, as well as the soft white glow of the moon.

Five figures walked through the portal from the other side. Two of them were wearing samurai armor, both were foxes with one of them having two white tails while the other only a single silver tail with a tip of both tails being black.

The twin-tailed fox’s armor was white with a tined blue at a few edges. The helmet she wore had a symbol of a snowflake with a white ponytail sticking out in the back that reached her spine. Two swords, one long and another short, rested on the left side of her hips. She stood about five foot three inches.

The silver tailed fox wore black with an eerie green tinted on some parts of the armor. His helmet and mask resembled the shape of a fox skull, which added to the creepiness given off by his appearances. Instead of a sword like her colleague, the silver fox carries a yumi(bow) and a quiver of arrows on his side. He stood about five foot eight inches.

Behind the armored foxes were two ninjas. One of them was a three-tailed black fox with a white tip. He wore a black ninja suit with a straight sword sheath behind his back and a belt that held three pouches, each one holding various tools and weapons. He stood at a good five foot eight inches.

Behind the silver fox, and much to the confusion of the royal guard and princesses was a dark grayscaled wingless dragon. Like the three-tailed fox, it too had a sword and a pouch for its tools and weapons. However, unlike the ninja who wore black, her outfit was gray as the storm clouds. The same colors that matched her scales. Her wrists, however, were covered in white fur. The dragon was about the size of the current Dragon Lord, Ember who stood about five feet, ten inches, and was the tallest of the group.

The three foxes and dragon got to their knees and bowed as a fifth figure walked out from the portal. It had nine tails, it fur was red-orange with white on it tips. The figure wore a sleeveless red and gold kimono with a golden sash that was wrapped around the red hakama with golden flames at the bottom (Pants commonly worn by samurai). Around his neck was a choker that held two gemstones that each shone when the rays of the sun hit them. A jade about the size of a pearl on the left, and an amber of the same size on the right. The red fox was the same size as Luna, who stood about six feet.

The nine tailed fox walked with both his hands behind his back. After the fifth step upon stepping away from the portal, the outline disappeared, canceling out the magic that sustains it, causing it to disappear in a flash of light.

“Princess Celestia, Princess Luna, and Princess Sparkle I presume.” His voice was clear but still held a nightponies accent to it. “I am Seer, ruler of Vulpus Terra.” He then bowed before the three in a show of respect. “It is an honor and pleasure to meet you all.”

Chapter Two: The Party

Chapter Two

The Party

“First off, I’d like to extend my gratitude for making time to meet with me like this.” The nine tailed fox spoke in a prescient manner. His four guards stood behind him and looked around the throne room they were in. The marble floor was clean to the point where they could see their reflections on the floor. The stained glass that told stories about Equestria’s heroes were clean as well.

“Oh no, the pleasure is all mine, Emperor. it’s not often we meet a remarkable species such as yourself.” Celestia spoke, keeping that motherly and regal tone of hers.

“Before we go further beyond this discussion, I, no, we demand to know if you have spies within our borders?” Luna spoke up, determined to get to the bottom of her mystery. For the past week ever since Seer send the princesses the letter, she had been searching for any type of opposing espionage among the royal staff and guard, both solar and her own. She had entered into ponies dreams to reveal the truth or asking them personal questions in case the foxes knew how to shape shift like the changeling race. Each attempt came up fruitless, leaving the lunar princess tired. Now since the emperor was here, she could get the answers she desperately wanted.

“I do not.” Seer just chuckled to the question, then raising a brow to the princess, more especially, Celestia. “And didn’t I tell you in my reply to call off the search to spare you and your ponies an headache?” The fox asked only for Celestia’s cheek turn red in embarrassment. “However, even if I did, it would be hard, if not impossible, to for you to find or located them among the ponies in this land.” Twilight was about to asked but was cut off by the emperor. “And before you ask, it’s a secret only those within my guard are allowed to share.”

“Then how did you know about the dragon in Equestria? How did you know about Twilight’s former pupil Starlight Glimmer?” Luna asked as she started rubbing her hands on her mane in frustration.

“Seer Dono can gaze into the past, present, and future of all.” One of the guard said proudly. The nine-tailed fox and the rest of his guard just planted his hand to his face and sighed. He didn’t want to tell them about his clairvoyance since it would likely dash any hopes in becoming allies if he knew secrets Equestria has hidden.

“Wait, you know the clairvoyance spell? “Twilight asked only to get a nod in confirmation from the fox emperor. “But that spell. . .its nearly impossible to complete, and even if you do, the user can only see up to ten seconds into the past or future.” Twilight explained, having read the spell herself. She had performed the spell and only saw ten seconds into the future, and nothing much has changed only for grey wall-eyed mare crashing into her castle with a letter addressed by her parents. And ten seconds later her vision happen.

“Oh For the love of Inari. . .Yajirushi.” The black and green armor fox turned to emperor who call.

“Yes, my lord?”

“When this is over, I’m going to punish you when I clearly ordered you and the others to not tell anyone about my clairvoyance.” Seer rubbed his temple softly.

The armor two-tailed fox bowed apologetically and begged. “Forgive me my lord.”

Ignoring Yajirushi’s plead, Seer addressed Twilight. “For one, the clairvoyance spell as hard as it is wasn’t meant for any creature to cast. Two; my name is Seer for a reason. And three; In order for the spell to be a success, there are special requirements that must be met.” Seer was about to explain, but he saw Twilight taking notes. “And if you think I’m going to tell you the steps, then you’re sadly mistaken.”

“Wah?” Twilight asked in disbelief, much to the two celestial sisters amusement.

“This spell is something you have to figure out on your own.” Seer declared with a coy smile

“Emperor Seer, you ‘may’ know everything about us ponies, but we have very little to go off of on you and your kind. Do you mind sharing some information about yourself or your species?” Celestia asked.

“Alright, what you want to know?” Seer asked knowing what the princesses what to asked him.

“A friend of mine saw something akin to you near the border of Equestria. Her fur was white as snow. Her hair was a golden color and she wore a robe much like the one you’re wearing, only with hourglasses on them. When he called her out, she disappeared and wasn't seen since then. I was wondering if you know her or have known about her whereabouts?” Celestia had described the details on the encounter her friend had as best she could.

“I do. Her name is Hourglass, she the former ruler of Vulpes Terra.”

“What happened to her?” Twilight asked with an interested grin, her notepad at the ready again. “Did you banish her to somewhere remote because she was evil to her subjects?” This question caused the four guards behind the emperor to growl, causing the lavender alicorn to flinch and slightly hidden from the visitors, thinking she had done something wrong. Seer just raised his hand, causing them to calm down.

“Princess Sparkle. I know you are curious about us and want to know more about our culture, race, and history, all of which I’m happy to share, but please do not speak ill towards her. And no I didn’t banish her, she just retired after 3000 years of ruling.”

“I’m sorry to assume.-” Twilight apologies but was quickly interrupted.

“I forgive you,” The Emperor fox said waving his hand.” and I’m well aware of The Storm King, Queen Chrysalis, King Sombra, and Lord Tirek tried to conquer your land, which ended in failure.” Seer recounted.

“Why yes, actual.” Twilight said, not knowing where he was going with this.

“Ah, then I understand your feeling Princess Sparkle, but rest assure I’m not here to conquer your land.” Seer finished. Twilight smiled and nodded thankfully.

“Ok, how did you become Emperor? If you don’t mind me asking.” Luna asked out of curiosity.

The nine-tailed fox shrugged at the question and answered. “I was next in line for the throne, that’s all.”

“Are there any other types of foxes if I may be bold to ask?” Twilight still kept her pen and paper out ready to write the juicy information she was about to here.

“I believe Frostbite here would be able to answer that.” Seer said. He then motioned for Frostbite to do so, to which the white armored twin-tailed fox nodded dutifully.

“There are three types of foxes within our land. The first being called Zenko, well-behaved foxes that normally serves as the nobles in Vulpes Terra.” The white fox’s voice was soft but had a little muscularity to it. “In my opinion, some of them can be jerks.” The white armor fox whisper. Lucky for her no pony was able to hear her. “Normally there are some that live in poor regions however they somehow live relatively normal lives. Then there’s the Yako, which are very common. There serves as harvesters for our crops and soil.

“So in short, Yakos are like earth ponies.” Twilight commented not taking her eyes off the white fox. Her handwriting down every word the white fox spoke.

“Um. . .well yes if you think so, Yakos also managers of the weather alongside The Ryuujinn’s dragons.” She began to explain with Twilight scribbling down all the words the twin tail fox spoke.

“Ryuujinn?” The princesses asked simultaneously.

“It’s our way for saying dragon lord in our native tongue.” The white fox answered. “And yes, there are two dragon lords. The western dragon lord, I believe named was Ember, and the eastern dragon lord, Shizuku.” The fox clearing her throat before speaking again. “Anyway, Yako tend to be. . .very playful, so if you ever come to our land, take caution when around them.” The arctic fox turned her head to her three-tailed comrade in the ninja outfit, who just wore a goofy smile.

“And finally, there’s the Tenko, the rarest of us all.”

“You mean like alicorns?” Twilight asked while still taking down notes.

“In a way you ponies look at it, yes. Tenko foxes possess a tremendous amount of magical energy we call mana. However, reaching up to that level of power takes quite a feat. Lucky for you ponies, Seer Dono is a Tenko himself.” Frostbite finished with a proud smile on her face.

“Wait.” Twilight interjected, “in an entry written by Star Swirl and O-Saka, they said that after a thousand years and when a kitsune gains its ninth tail, their fur becomes white or gold. How is Seer this Tenko if his fur is that of any normal red fox?.” Twilight wished she hadn’t said that as the air inside the room grew colder.

The white twin-tailed fox glared at the princess of friendship with intent to kill. “How dare you insinuate that seer dono is a liar!” she seethed as a white aura begin to seep through her white armor. “He poured his time and energy to meet with you reached ponies and you accuse him of not being a celestial fox?!” Frostbite gripped the tsuba of her katana tightly, ready to strike down the lavender mare. The amount of energy she was released was enough to slowly encase the walls around them, turning it into ice.” I’ll freeze your very soul for such impudence!” The golden aura and midnight blue aura encased the sisters horns as well as there hands, ready to bathe the arctic fox in a glory of raw magic to protect their fellow princess and friend. The guards posted nearby the princesses ready there spars, despite the temperature change.

“ENOUGH FROSTBITE!” Yelled the nine-tailed fox with enough volume in his voice to shake not only the castle but the entire mountain. Upon hearing her emperor’s voice, the white fox shivered fearfully and let go of her sword. If looks could kill, Frostbite very soul would have died as well.

“We’re here to not only form an alliance but a bond of friendship with the ponies of the land, not cause a needless war! I already told you before a week before we left that the ponies here will only make assumptions since we gave them no preliminary information about us. And you dare dash that hopes away because of a pony’s assumption about me being a false tenko?”

The white fox’s ears moved to the back of her head. She then bowed before him in shame. “I’m sorry, my lord. I don’t know what came over me.” The glow from the sisters dimmed as they sensed that the situation had calmed down. The guards, however, kept their spars locked on the group only for Celestia to raise her hand, telling them to lower their weapons.

The crimson fox sighed. “I’ll find a suitable punishment for you Frostbite, once this is over, but for now, don’t utter another word. That is an order.” The white fox nodded in shame letting her emotions getting the best of her. “I apologize for my guard’s outburst princesses.” The fox said bowing before the three princesses.

“We, um, understand Lord Seer.” Both sisters said in unison, however, taken aback from what they saw.

Seer then turned to address Twilight and said, “Now then, as for your, or in this case This Star Swirl’s, assumption on this Princess Sparkle.”

“T-Twilight is fine, thank you,” The lavender mare spoke with a shaky voice.

“Very well, Princess Twilight,” Seer nodded, “Yes, normally when a Tenko is made they fur normally change to white or golden and it does take a thousand years after a fox gains its ninth tail. However, like Celestia, Luna, and your niece Princess Flurry Heart, a tenko can be natural-born as well. I’m the third natural-born Tenko in Kitsune history. And the reason my fur is red-orange instead of golden is that I like the color red and this is the natural color of a red fox.” he continued to explain. “Oh, and you have to discover a new type of magic or something akin to emotional magic like love or friendship, and then somehow use said magic to teleport yourself to the astral plane to finish the transformation.”

“Wait, the astral Plane?” Twilight asked looking away from her notepad.

“A plane of existence that can only be accessed through enlightenment of some kind, or by separating your soul from your body, or physical going there when you achieve an higher power. You and Princess Cadence have enter this plane I believe.”

“I have read stories about Kitsune have the ability to transforming into any form or shape they desire, akin to Changeling is this ture?” Luna added.

“ Oh that. Yajirushi, if you please.”

The silver tailed fox nodded and created a small green leaf that he placed over his head. “Hai!” He yelled as his body soon turned to smoke. Once the smoke cleared, the fox was replaced by a guard pony unicorn wearing a gold plated armor and holding a spear. The guard then removed the leaf, changing back to the armored silver fox.

“As you can see, we can change our form to whatever we wish.” the red fox stated. “However the transformation only last when the leaf falls off or when the Kitsune can’t maintain the transformation. Less experience will have several defects like there shadows being there originally selfs to having a tail exposed.”

“Fascinating,” Twilight was quick to take down all of the information. “Also, what spells do you know?” Wanting to know more about fox magic.

“All of them.” Seer replied casually.

“Excuse me?” Twilight asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I know every single spell there is to know.” Seer answered with Twilight blankly staring at the fox in pure disbelief. There was no where this fox could know every single spell there is to know in the world, much less ponykind.

Could he?

“Every single spell? Like every spell foxes know or every spell is known to ponykind?” Twilight asked, causing the emperor to roll his eyes in amusement.

“How to explain this.” Seer rub the back of his head, wondering how to explain his magical knowledge to another mage who was as gifted as him in terms of magic. “Ok Fox magic is much like pony magic, kinda but with that let just said I know every spell known to creature kind like transfigurations, transmutations, runes, tomes, hexes, curses, elemental magic, light magic, dark magic, chaos magic, time magic, dimensional magic, draconic magic which how I sent you the letters to you in the first place, changeling magic,” The fox continued to list the various types of magic, to which Twilight’s jaw practically fell off her face. Celestia smiled in amusement, but she was no less shocked herself. There were some spells not even Celestia herself knew. This even shock Luna as well when he told her he can enter into creatures dreams as well.

“To put it bluntly, Seer Dono is The Supreme Mage.” Yajirushi stated.

“The Supreme Mage?” Questioned Twilight? “I’ve heard of that name before.”

“It is a mage that has a very deep understanding and knowledge in mystic arts. Star Swirl said there were only four superior mages in the world. In fact it was one of his dreams. Sadly there wasn’t any known whereabouts on the supreme mage during his travels.”

“Well if This Star Swirl travel to lat say Dogstris then he would finds some lead as to my whereabouts.” The Emperor stated “Oh and you might want to close your jaw Princess Twilight, lest you want a fly to nest within your maw.”

Regaining her composer, the princess just smiled. “Right then. So, what does Vulpes Terra have to offer Equestria?” Luna asked.

Seer replied simply. “Resources that may benefit both countries.”

The meeting went on for two hours, during which Seer told the princesses all they needed to know. Culture, social norms, and holidays, to which Twilight asked if she and her friends could join one of the foxes celebration they called ‘Kansha-sai’ a three day holiday that brings not just foxes, but all creatures within Vulpes Terra together to play and help with the harvest.

On the last day, the attendants would get together for a feast. The others were hesitant at first, but Seer agreed while warning that most of the citizens were predators and asked to not gag, puke, or leave when they bring the food out. Such behavior would be nothing but disrespect. Of course, they would provide pony food, since a few of the citizens were kirin and some of the foxes were vegetarians.

Seer also discussed the alliance between Equestria and Vulpes Terra about sending aid in need of war, open trades routes, and offer things such as silk, wool, and food, and other supplies. It was recently agreed that he and his guards would be staying in The castle of Friendship for a week and a half to get the Equestrian experiences, and were invited to the upcoming Grand Galloping Gala.

Once the meeting was done, Seer and his guard bowed respectfully and the three princesses did the same. The foxes and dragon followed the princess of friendship to the train station, where the group waited for the train on the platform. During the walk there, Twilight explained to Seer’s group what was in Ponyville and promised they would have a good time. Seeing how there would be some time before the train arrived, Seer turned to Yajirushi and Frostbite deciding to use the time to reprimand the two.

“Alright. Yajirushi, Frostbite, here are your punishments.” he began, looking directly into the silver fox’s eyes, “For you Yajirushi, you’ll be assist the element of generosity at high noon tomorrow. You are not to use your magic unless she or yourself are in danger.”

“Yes, milord,” Yajirushi spoke while saluting his emperor.

“And now you, Frostbite,” he called out, gaining her attention, “As punishment for nearly ruining our first impressions with the princesses of this land, you are to assist the element of honesty and her family on the farm starting at dawn tomorrow. Like Yajirushi, you are also forbidden to use your magic, and weapons unless it’s absolutely necessary. Is that clear?”

With a sigh, the arctic white fox nodded. “Yes your highness...”

The train ride from Canterlot to Ponyville was a very slow one, just as they usually are. Much to the annoyance of Vulpes Terra royal guards.

Seer didn’t use a spell to slow downtime, or speed up, as he found it unnecessary to use such spells. The said nine-tailed fox had his eyes closed and his arms folded across his chest. To others, it looked like the emperor was asleep, but he was actually in deep thought about the whole meeting with the princesses. No sounds were made, save for those of the roaring engines and wheels, as well as the occasional whistle from the train.

And a few ponies whispering thinking the foxes couldn’t hear.

Sitting next to the emperor was the armored white fox, Frostbite, who stared at the floor the entire time with her two swords resting on her lap. She of course, was reflecting on her actions earlier. She had almost needlessly and recklessly attacked one of the princess of a foreign land. All because of some assumptions said princess had on Seer not being a Tenko.

“So, um...” Twilight began, gaining the group’s attention. “Well... I didn’t get all of your names, beside the two, um... samurai there.”

“Oh my apologies princess, my name is Manto of the Shadow Tails.” the three-tailed fox spoke in a rough voice, which was muffled due to his mask. In contrast to his gruff tone, Manto bowed respectfully.

“And I’m Gale of the Stormy Skies.” the dragoness sitting beside Frostbite answered. Her voice was also muffled, but unlike Manto, it was also upbeat and had a sense of cheer to it.

“So does that mean you belong to a clan or something?” Twilight asked before she pulled out her pad and pencil again, ready to take more notes. Gale was amused by this and took off her mask so she could speak clearly.

“Indeed. Each civilian, belongs to a family or house that specializes in something or is known for their actions. My family, for example, controls the skies and manage the weather within the capital; Inari no shuto, hence the name Stormy Skies; though, we only create storms when there’s no rain for a couple of weeks.”

“Interesting,” Twilight said writing down.

“My partner here,” She pointed to the three tailed black fox. “has a history of blending into the shadows and even using them as weapons.” The dragoness then to point to the black and green armored fox who removed his helmet, revealing his silver hair that reached to his shoulders. He was currently scarfing down a few cookies he bought. “Yajirushi here belongs to a clan known for their cursed and spiritual magic. Then you have Frostbite, who belongs to the Frozen Field clan who are famous for being cryomancer.”

Twilight continued to write down what she heard before turning to the leader. “What house or clan do you belong to Seer, if you don’t mind me asking?”

Seer kept his stoic expression as he addressed the lavender princess. “I belong to the house of fate, and I wouldn’t dwell on my family history. It’s. . .complicated enough as it is. And I mean really complicated...”

Twilight raised an eyebrow, but regardless nodded in understanding at Seer’s response while she continued writing down notes. Once she had reached a stopping point, she turned back to the others. “So... how long have you guys been Seer’s bodyguards?” she asked, wanted to change the topic.

“Hmm...” pondered Gale, “Me... I’d guess about 100 years or so.”

“I’ve served the royal family for 350 years,” Manto said. “My family has served dutifully since Lady Inari’s rule.”

Frostbite looked up towards the princess. “I have served Seer Dono for 200 years.”

“I’m new, but I’ve served Seer’s side for about a couple of weeks now,” Yajirushi said as he just walked over to the seat the five were in after eating a few more cookies. Twilight, who had stopped writing at this point, just looked at the group in complete bewilderment.

“Y-You’re all... over 100? B-But... you all look like you’re in your mid-20’s.”

“Hey, unlike the old geezers here, I’m actually 22 years old!” Yajirushi said indignantly. His insolence did not go unpunished, since he was immediately tackled to the ground by a dark gray blur, and pinned the fox to the ground.

“You forget two ladies are present, and you dare call Seer Dono an old geezer!?” seethed Gale.

“Considering he’s 2000 years old, yes!” barked the silver fox. Just like that, the play fight began with the two playfully hitting each other. Seer just chuckled and shook his head. Of course he had the power to stop it, but he chose not to since he enjoyed seeing his guards loosen up from time to time.

“Hey, being old means that I’m wisest out of all of us.” He then turned to Twilight to address her comment. “Much like dragons, our race have a very long lifespan. The life expectancy of a kitsune ranges between a hundred and a thousand years with very few exceptions.” His face then adopted a grim expression. “Unless my fam- I mean fate decides to step in and claim a kitsune’s life at an early age.”

Twilight’s expression went blank as she realized what Seer had meant. “O-Oh...” She apologized for her comment, but he quickly dismissed it.

“Oh, and Gale?” He then turned to the dragoness, who was wrestling with the fox samurai. Gaining the attention of them both, with Yajirushi slapping Gale in the cheek playfully. “Please try not to kill the ‘baby’ dragon.”

Gale looked shocked at her leader’s words. “But I’ll-” she tried to say, but instantly silenced herself when Seer raised his hand.

“I know how you act with cute and adorable things.” The fox then smirked. “And as amusing as it is... I don’t think the princesses would appreciate their purple and green scaled friend dying from blood loss.”

“Wait, how- Oh, clairvoyance.” Twilight made a mental note to do more research on this spell.

“Understood...” Gale said in defeat.

“I’ve been meaning to ask... how far can you see into the future?” This is a question the young alicorn has been waiting to ask since she and Seer first met.

“Until the end of time...” the emperor answered and then smirked, as he knew what Twilight’s next question would be. “And before you ask, no I can’t tell you major events that are destined to happen.”

After a long ride, the train finally came to a screeching halt at the Ponyville station. The doors opened with a few ponies coming out of the cars, and went on their ways. Some were greeted by friends and/or family, while others moved along, wanting to get home after traveling. Twilight, Seer, and his guard were the last ones to step off.

“Welcome to Ponyville!” exclaimed the princess of friendship. “The friendliest place in all of Equestria. I’ll show you around, but first...” Twilight’s horn glowed in a hue of magenta and soon, the dress she wore was encased by the same light. After a few seconds, the light disappeared, replacing Twilight’s purple and yellow dress with her white blouse, black vest, and plaid skirt, along with knee high white socklings, with holes for her hooves. “Ahh, that’s better!” she sighed, relieved at finally getting out of the somewhat tight dress.

The first location on the tour, was a three story building with a design resembling a gingerbread house. Even with all they have seen on their many years of exploring the world, the visitors seemed amazed at the architectural detail.

“This is Sugarcube Corner, one of the more famous and popular locations in Ponyville. As you can likely tell, it’s a bakery and one of my closest friends, Pinkie Pie lives in this establishment with the owners and their two twins.”

“I must say, I’m quite impressed with the design of this building. It reminds me of ‘Okashi no kyūden(Palace of Sweets)’,” marveled Seer. “It’s very inviting and has a very warm atmosphere. I can understand why you said it’s very popular, princess.”

“Aww, so I can’t eat the building?” Yajirushi asked, placing a finger in his mouth. This caused the lavender princess to giggle.

“Of course you can’t, it’s not actually made out of gingerbread. Luckily, my friend Pinkie Pie makes some of the most delicious treats, including actual gingerbread houses. I could ask her-” Twilight was cut off when a pair of silver and dark gray colors went on their knees.

“Oh please Seer Dono, I want to try it. Please, please, please?” begged both Yajirushi and Gale. The red fox sighed at the disgraceful sight of his subordinates’ eyes widening like puppies begging for a treat.

“First off, you two are in the royal guard, so no need to act like children. Second, you don’t need my permission for these kinds of matters, just go in. And finally, this is technically a vacation for your four, despite it being a diplomatic affair.” In a black, green, and gray blur, Gale and Yajirushi rushed inside, leaving Seer dumbfounded and Twilight smiling in amusement.

The inside of Sugarcube Corner was much like a restaurant with a few polished wooden tables around the main area, along with two to four chairs at each one. At the end of the main area was a counter with various treats on display behind a layer of glass. Behind the counter was a wall where even more tasty treats were on display. The sudden intrusion of the pair shocked a light blue earth pony mare in her early to mid-40s. Her hot pink mane was in a style that looked like frosting. She wore a white short sleeve blouse, blue denim jeans, and a yellow apron with pink fluffy frills and a picture of a cupcake stitched in the middle.

“Oh, um... hello and... welcome to Sugarcube Corner,” the mare greeted, nervously. Hoping to ease her worries, Manto and Gale bowed in unison.

“Greetings,” they both said, politely. Seer, Twilight, Manto, and Frostbite soon came in behind them.

“Oh, Twilight. These must be the guests you told us about,” The baker smiled. The red fox turned to Twilight who smiled sheepishly. “I’m Cupcake, co-owner of Sugarcube Corner.”

“My name is. Gale.” the dragon ninja answered while looking around at the sweets.

“Yajirushi,” the samurai fox added. “And I’ll take a chocolate cupcakes with sprinkles.” The blue mare giggled in response as she rung up the order.

“Same for me please, only with gems if you have them,” Gale said, licking her lips, imagining the treat with different colorful gems.

“You got it, any for the rest of you?” Cupcake asked, to which Seer and Manto shook their heads.

“I’ll um... take a milkshake,” Frostbite said. With a nod, Cup Cake walked to the back to inform her husband of the orders.

“You sure you don’t want anything, Seer?” Twilight asked, but he just smirked and shook his head politely.

“No thank you, I’ll wait to eat at the castle since your friends are already there waiting for us.”

“Same here.” Manto added, Twilight was about to say something when Cupcake returned with a yellow earth pony. Unlike Cup, who was slightly chubby while maintaining her figure, the stallion was quite skinny. He had a red and white lined chef’s hat, a peppermint style bow tie, a cyan dress shirt, brown jeans, and an apron with a carrot cake stitched by the pocket. He was carrying a tray, which held the items the visitors had ordered.

“One sapphire cupcake.” he called out in a cheery tone. Almost immediately, Gale raised her hand, took the cupcake, and happily bit into it. “A chocolate cupcake?” Yajirushi nodded, taking the cupcake. “And a milkshake?” Frostbite took the milkshake and began to drink it fast without slowing down.

“Um, you might want to slow down.” the yellow stallion warned.

“Not to worry sir, arctic foxes like her don’t get brain freeze.” Seer said as he pulled out a bag full of coins. “How much do I owe you?” he asked, much to the guards’ apparent horror.

“No milord! You shouldn’t pay for our snacks,” Yajirushi pleaded.

“Yes, we wanted the treats. You shouldn’t burden yourself with our greed,” continued Gale.

“We should be paying for our snacks, not you milord,” Frostbite chimed in.

“They’re right. We, the royal guard, swore to follow your orders and we’ll even pay for your meals in our expense.” Manto spoke.

With the situation getting a bit awkward, Seer stared at the married couple and back to his guard, rolling his eyes. “...Alright,” Seer shrugged, much to Twilight’s shock. He said he and the rest of his species were friendly, but it still surprised her to an extent. “But who are you loyal to, me or the throne?” he asked, making sure to clarify that it wasn’t a trick question. Despite that, the answer was obvious.

“You,” they all answered simultaneously.

“So if I asked you to commit seppuku despite doing nothing to warrant such an act, would you?” the red fox questioned. The four responded by nodding in unison, though with slight hesitation.

“Yes! If that is what you wish milord.”

“Then what good are the royal guard to me if they’re dead?” The four said nothing as they looked at each other awkwardly. “I might be your emperor, but I am also your friend. You lot know damn well I would give up anything to see my friends happy. I don’t want to pay because I have to, but rather because I want to.” Seer smiled as the four guards suddenly ran over to hug him and he, in turn, reciprocated the said gesture. All ears perked up as they heard a sniff from the lavender alicorn who was watching. A few tears rolled down Twilight’s eyes and it continued when they heard the Cake couple sniffling as well. “So, how much for the cupcakes and milkshake?”

“After such a wonderful speech, they’re on the house,” Cup Cake said, wiping away a tear.

“Really?” The group asked and the couple nodded.

“Awesome!” Gale yelled, taking another bite of her sapphire cupcake.

After their heartwarming hug and bidding the Cakes farewell, the group left the bakery and made their way through town once again with Twilight showing them around. The next stop was the market district, where the ponies in town sold various goods and services. She then showed them the spa, which Manto made a mental note to visit on a later date. Next was Sweet Apple Arcs, where the best apple products were harvested by Twilight’s longtime friend Applejack and her family. The final stop was the School of Friendship, where creatures from all over have come to learn about friendship. It was also conveniently located near the Castle of Friendship.

“And that concludes our tour of Ponyville.” Twilight finished with another of her warm smiles. “What do you think?”

“Hmm? I’m impressed of all you had accomplished Princess Twilight.” Seer chuckled, leading Twilight to tilt her head in confusion. “You had a student yourself, who is now working with you as a guidance counselor to your school. You’re a princess and the headmare of a school that teaches friendship. And among your students, six of them, in fact, saved not only Equestria but the world by breaking a spell that took away magic from said world.” he explained and Twilight’s jaw dropped to the ground.

“You didn’t honestly believe any magic user in the world wouldn’t notice when our magic left us, did you?” Seer helped Twilight relocate her jaw back to her mouth. “Oh, and Tartarus wasn’t meant to house living creatures, especially a now 18-year-old filly. Tirek however, is whole other story.”

As shocked as she was, Twilight managed to at least open the door with her magic, revealing the crystalline walls of her castle. Gale was the first to come inside, her senses racing to see what the castle had to offer.

“Woah, it looks a lot bigger on the inside!” exclaimed the dragon, as she dashed into different parts of the castle in a display of speed, checking almost every room. She somehow and miraculously came back less than five seconds later. “You know, you guys really should label your doors. I couldn’t tell the bedroom from a broom closet,” Gale said to the young princess after finishing her cupcake. “Don’t you ever get lost in here? I mean, our castle is big, but yours is like a maze.”

“We memorized the rooms. Well... mine, Spike, and Starlight’s to be honest. I don’t even know if this castle holds any more secrets,” Twilight explained.

Moving towards the walls, Seer placed his hand on the cool crystal walls and felt feel strong magical energy flowing through it. The castle itself seemed to react to his touch, as the walls emitted a soft blue glow before disappearing. “Hmm... just a thanks for saving you, huh? Sounds like them...”

“What... What did you do?” Twilight asked, worried that the emperor was up to something. In fact, this was the first time she saw her castle glow and respond to anyone’s touch.

“Hmm? Oh, I’m talking to the Tree of Harmony,” the fox answered without facing the alicorn. “It told me it felt sorry that your old home was destroyed during your battle against Tirek. And because you saved it from having its magic sucked from Discord’s vines, it gave you this castle.”

“Wait, you can... talk to the Tree of Harmony from here?” Finally turning to look at Twilight, Seer gave her a deadpan stare but nodded.

“Despite being the element of magic, you lack the knowledge of the art,” he commented. “But yes, it is an extension of its magic. In fact, if I had to guess, this castle is a part of its roots.”

“Okay, enough talk about trees, I smell something very delicious coming from this room,” Manto said as he pointed to one of the green stained glass doors. The black three-tailed ninja fox slowly walked up to the closed door and opened it, only to find that the room was pitch black. Taking caution, Manto extended his right hand and then used his left to reach into his pouch, clenching several shurikens. Slowly, he backed away when suddenly the light came on, blinding the fox for a moment.

“SURPRISE!” yelled a pink pony, who seemed to come out of nowhere.

“WHOA!” In a panic and out of reflex, Manto jumped back and swung his arms, throwing the shuriken that were in his pouch. The star-shaped weapons flew by the pink pony and several other ponies before wedging themselves into the wall.

All the parties were quite shaken up after Manto’s little display of clumsiness, with the exception of Seer, who merely shook his head in shame. Upon taking another look at the room, Manto’s expression became completely blank with realization as he felt frozen in place. “Um... sorry?!” The black fox bowed his head, apologetically.

“It’s fine, I’ve been hit by worse!” the bubbly pony cheered. She wore a blue and yellow polka dot dress with buttons in the shape of candy around her waist. “My name is Pinkamena Diane Pie, but all my friends just call me Pinkie Pie! And you’re my friend as well, even though you tried to kill me. That’s understandable since I did surprise you with this party so you could make LOTS of friends. I do more than parties, including baking sweets like cupcakes, donuts, double chocolate cake, triple chocolate cake, a double-frosted triple layer black and white cake-”

“Ah think the fella gets it, Pinkie,” spoke a southern feminine voice. Just then, an orange earth pony walked up with a blonde tied off mane and tail. She wore a white short sleeve button shirt that was tied against her large breasts. Luckily, she also had a red bra underneath, which somehow didn’t show, despite the amount of cleavage that was exposed. Denim short jeans helped to cover her thick thighs, despite them looking tight on her. “We forgive ya, partner. Stuff like this happens a lot around here.”

Standing up again, the black fox smiled. “Thank you. Oh, and my name is Manto and I’m a royal guard to the throne of Vulpes Terra.”

“So you’re a royal guard, huh? Then why are you dressed like a ninja, huh?” a rough, raspy, and tomboyish voice cried out. A rainbow blur flew around the black three tailed-ninja as if it was inspecting him. Landing in front of the ninja, the blur revealed itself to be a cyan pegasus mare with a rainbow mane and tail. She wore a blue jumpsuit with a yellow lightning bolt going down the middle. Despite it being tight, the suit seemed flexible enough to allow movement. The mare’s bust wasn’t as big as her country friend’s, but her body tone alone made up for her smaller assets. “Instead of like that white fox over there?” She pointed to Frostbite as she walked up to stand beside Seer.

“Well, besides being a personal bodyguard to Lord Seer, my clan specializes in scouting, espionage, and assassination missions,” Manto clarified.

“Bodyguard you say?” Rainbow questioned and then smirked as an idea came to her. “Think I can tag this emperor of yours before you can blink?”

“Rainbow, ah don’t think that’s a good idea...” the orange mare chimed in. She knew how daring her friend here could be, but this was stupid even for her.

“I would listen to your friend here if I were you. We’ll most likely to slay you where you stand before that happens,” Manto warned. He could tell Rainbow wasn’t the type to listen to reason, much like some of his colleges back home who would sometimes jeopardize missions in order to prove how tough and brave they are. Due to their lack of training, such recklessness often ended with deadly results.

“Oh, is that a challenge? Then if so, you’re on!” But before Rainbow could even move, she felt something keeping her to the ground. She flapped her wings wildly and even tried to move her legs, but they all insisted she remains super glued to the ground. When her rose-colored eyes looked down, she gasped upon seeing what looked like a pair of claws reaching from her own shadow and holding her down by her ankles. “What the?”

“It was no challenge,” Manto snickered, making it clear he was responsible for this. “If it was, you would have already lost.” The black fox smiled mischievously. “If it wasn’t obvious before, I can control and manipulate shadows to my will. In fact, I’m guessing Lord Seer has something to do with this. But if you, let’s say did ‘try’, to assassinate him, I’ll have your own shadow drag you down into the abyss where ‘they’ will do unspeakable things to you.” This info sent shivers down both mares’ spines. “Also, where is your pink friend?” Manto asked, looking around to no avail.

“Knowin’ Pinkie, she’s probably greetin’ yer other friends,” the orange mare shrugged. “Oh and mah name’s Applejack. Sorry ah didn’t tell ya before, sugarcube.”

Since the guests have gotten over the small incident involving the surprise, the party began properly. The rest of the visitors entered the ballroom, which was decorated with colorful streamers, confetti, and a giant banner that read ‘Welcome to Ponyville’. Frostbite, despite her protests, decided to walk around to meet some of the locals. ‘They do seem friendly and Lord Seer seems to trust them well enough,’ the white fox thought to herself.

“My, you have such a delightful color darling,” an elegant voice called out, interrupting the samurai’s train of thought. “White and blue do suit you nicely.” Turning around, Frostbite saw that standing beside her, was an ivory unicorn mare. Her purple mane and tail were styled in curls, which seemingly took hours to style. The mare wore a black blouse with an amethyst in the middle, a light grey skirt, black stockings, and matching dress shoes. Even though she was about a few inches shorter than her, the mare carried around an elegant presence.

“Um, thanks?” Frostbite spoke, feeling a little awkward talking a complete stranger. “And... who are you?”

“Oh, where are my manners? I’m Rarity, fashionista exstoradlare,” the alabaster mare posed, flinging her mane to the side.

“Frostbite,” the twin-tailed fox answered, curtly.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Ms. Frostbite.” Rarity greeted as her sapphire eyes scanned the white vixen’s armor. “Darling, I simply must ask, why do you intend to keep that helmet of yours on?” Frostbite blinked and noticed she was the only one wearing her helmet. Manto who was just talking to Applejack and Rainbow Dash had his mask off along with Gale who was having a conversation with a small purple and green dragon. Then there was her fellow samurai, Yajirushi, who was watching Pinkie race from one place to another at breakneck speeds. He too had removed his helmet.

Finally responding to the ivory mare’s question, the vixen shrugged before placing her index finger on the snowflake symbol. Within seconds, the helmet changed into crystal clear solid ice, which shattered into small pieces shining in the light before fading away. The moment the helmet broke, Frostbite’s straight, long, white hair flowed out in a beautiful display of grace. Rarity was in awe as she witnessed such a display.

“That was... amazing!” she marveled. “Such poise, such grace. Oh, you simply must you have to come to my boutique. I have a wonderful idea for a delightful outfit for my up and coming winter line up.”

“You do know that it’s spring, right?” Frostbite corrected the fashionista, leading her to scoff.

“Pfft, I know that, but one can’t be too prepared for something unexpected.”

The fox giggled. “That’s something Seer Dono or Lady Hourglass would say.”

“Lady Hourglass, you say? May I ask who she is?” the alabaster mare looked around before leaning closer. “And if your emperor and this Lady Hourglass... are an item?” she added in a whisper, hoping to be the first to hear such juicy gossip of foreign visitors.

“W-What? No!” the white fox yelled, getting the unwanted attention of a few bystanders. After they dispersed, she leaned closer and whispered, “She’s his mother and a caring one at that. Lady Hourglass loves her son, but not like THAT. Although... she did try to force some of her maidens to bed him from time to time when he was younger. In fact, many years ago, before I became his personal guard, Lady Hourglass nearly made him marry a diamond dog princess to strengthen relations with them. Although that last bit is just a rumor.”

Rarity felt shocked at such a situation, especially since she had her own past misfortunes with diamond dogs. Though, it’s learning about this forced marriage that really had the ivory mare taken aback.

“Oh my, that sounds horrible. Putting a child up for marriage, and to such disgusting creatures. My sincerest apologies for my assumption as well.”

“I kind of learned my lesson when Seer Dono stopped me from attacking Princess Sparkle for the same reason, so you’re forgiven. But like I said, it was a long time ago.” The icy blue eyes of the fox spotted a small white bunny among the hooves, paws, and feet. Upon realizing that it had been spotted, the bunny began to hop away. Unfortunately, it didn’t get very far before Gale caught up to it and held it close to her torso.

“Huh, and where do you think you’re going you cute little bunny?” the dragoness asked, as she unconsciously bared her sharp fangs. Upon seeing the said fangs, the bunny began to struggle violently for its freedom. “Oh settle down little bunny, I won’t eat you. Though, I can’t say the same about my friends here.” She pointed her tail to the white fox, who was eyeing the bunny curiously.

“Angel!” a timid voice yelled out. A yellow pegasus mare with a long, pink mane flew up towards the ninja dragon. Without thinking, she grabbed the bunny and, like the dragon, held it like a mother would her baby. “I told you to stay in the cottage!” she cried in a worried tone. Gale just blinked in confusion as she looked at the pegasus. She wore a green, sleeveless turtleneck sweater, along with a cyan skirt, white stockings, and green shoes. She pressed the bunny against her impressive bust and in a calmer tone said, “Don’t worry Angel, just stay with me and you’ll be fine.” The bunny then pointed to Frostbite, who was still staring.

“Kind of going to be hard since you have one predator eyeing your, um... pet?” Gale pointed out. Luckily for the bunny, Rarity was able to get the fox’s attention once more and dragged her away before she could do anything. “And if you want to know. I’m Gale.”

“Mine’s, um, Fluttershy,” the mare said quietly as she hesitantly held out her hand.

The dragon reached out and shook her hand. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“I’ve, um, never seen a d-dragon like you before.” The timid mare stated.

“Oh I’m a storm dragon.” Gale said proudly.

“S-S-Storm Dragon? B-But you don’t have wings.” Fluttershy pointed out.

The dragoness rolls her eyes. “Well duh, I’m an eastern dragon.”

“An Eastern dragon?” The yellow mare questioned.

“A dragon that resides in the eastern parts of the world. Unlike our western cousins, for example, that little purple and green dragon over there,” She pointed to said dragon who was returning with a bowl filled with gems over his head. “We have, well most of the elders have, snake-like bodies.” When the dragoness was finished explaining, the small dragon flew over towards the two, landing beside the ninja dragon. “Thanks little dude!” she reached over and rubbed the purple dragon’s head, much to his appreciation.

“So Gale. Have you ever. um, gone on any secret missions or anything like that?” The small dragon asked while placing the bowl on a nearby table.

“Actually I have been on several missions, some more dangerous than others.” Gale admitted.

“Oh my...” Fluttershy gasped.

“I can’t go into details because most of them are extremely confidential, but it toughened me up. And it made me value life a lot more.” Gale then smiled. The bright yellow eyes stared into the nice sizable ruby with a chunk of it missing. “So not to damping the mood or anything, but what is it you guys do around here anyway?” The dragon ninja as wanting to get off the topic.

“I assist Twilight.” Spike answered. “And others around the town if and when they need help.”

“I run an animal sanctuary near my cottage.” Answered Fluttershy.

“That’s Cool.”Gale stared at the little dragon. “A bit young to be working as an assistant for a princess, don’t you think?”

“Oh, Spike here has been with Twilight side since day one. In fact, she was the one who hatched him in the first place.” Fluttershy’s surprisingly straightforward statement caused the dragoness to stare blankly at the two. There were a lot of questions going through her head that needed to be answered.

“Ok, one: How did that princess over there, “She then pointed at the lavender mare who was introducing him to two other ponies, both unicorns. “manage to gather enough magical power to hatch a dragon egg? Two: Where are your parents and what happened to them? Three: Did she or any pony steal your egg? And four: Why hasn’t anyone reported this?” The questions rained down like a torrential storm. Gale didn’t know whether to be concerned or furious that a pony of all creatures was able to hatch a dragon.

Much to her surprise, Spike was able to answer all of her questions. He explained that when Twilight was a filly, a supersonic explosion triggered her latent magical energy during her entrance exams for Celestia’s school for gifted unicorns. Because of the explosion, she was able to hatch him before temporarily turning him into a much bigger dragon, as well as turning her parents and examiners into different objects. Celestia noticed and calmed her down, thus making Twilight her personal student after the whole ordeal. Because Twilight was a filly at the time, and no pony knew how to care for a dragon hatchling, Celestia adopted him as a son and took care of him. He also explained that he used to play with Twilight, becoming her first friend.

So Celestia made Twilight, and the rest of her family, his guardians. Spike or anypony for that matter didn’t know where his egg came from or how it got into Equestria. The only thing Celestia remembered was that his egg was brought to her forty years ago. Spike also explained his adventures to the dragoness ninja including the time he suppressed his greed-induced growth, saved the Crystal Empire twice, became the dragon lord for a minute before passing it onto the current dragon lord Ember, and befriending a changeling who in turn became a leader of the changeling hive.

Gale was in awe at what she had just heard. But also this raised some concerns and a few more questions. “You accomplished so much for someone as young as you?”

“Hehe, well I am only 19,” Spike said as he sheepishly rubbed his feet on the crystal glass floor.

“Yes, but the dragons back home would praise-.” The dragoness paused upon hearing the small dragon’s age “Come again?”

“I’m only 19?” Spike answered once more, staring at the dragoness.

“19 years old huh?” She asked walking around the three-foot dragon dressed in a black t-shirt with a lime green flaming symbol of a dragon in the middle of his chest, and matching pants. The dragon wasn’t fat, nor he didn’t have a lot of muscle mass Spike found himself a bit creeped out at the way she was inspecting him. “Have you experienced any blood loss in recent years?” The dragoness asked placing her claw under her chin. “Or any hunger pains, or the need to collect more objects, like gems and stuff like that?”

Spike’s cheeks turned a reddish color. “Y-Yes? A-All the time actually.”

“Right. . .” Gale then turned to Fluttershy, who was just standing there quietly with Angel pressed against her bosom, and asked, “Did you notice anything odd when he was around you or others?”

“Oh, a few times actually,” she said as she recounted the times when Spike acted strangely. Fluttershy placed her finger under her chin and said, “Whenever me or the girls are together and we had our backs turned, something happened. Spike was on the ground with his scales going pale, or is bleeding through the nose.” Fluttershy explained, remembering the incident with and Rarity and her sister at the beach last summer.

Needless to say, Spike vow to never swam in the ocean again.

Gale just eyed the small dragon, her arms crossed in disappointment. “I don’t know whether to be proud of you or disappointed in you.” Spike was about to protest what she said, but Gale pinched his muzzle shut, stopping him from uttering another word. “And I know what you’re going to say; ‘yea I was raised by ponies, so what? I’m not like other dragons.’” Gale’s prediction seemed accurate as Spike just looked at her with pure shock. “That isn’t going to work. Your coming with me, Manto, and Lord Seer so that we can fix your stunted growth of yours.” She then released his muzzle.

“Stunted growth?” questioned Fluttershy and Spike simultaneously, to which the ninja slapped her forehead in frustration.

“Yes. After a dragon molt and gains their wings, in your case, they begin to grow a couple of inches taller. After that, dragons need to consume protein to help grow their body and mind. In addition, your body will start to produce something we dragons call The Lust Effect, or to put it simply, we enter heat that only lasts for a day. Because you neglected your growth by refusing to eat meat, your body is frail and weak.” Gale knew all about the trails when a dragon neglected there growth she had seen them before during her missions to both Seer, and Dragon Lord Shizuku both involving dragon trafficking.

“And” The dragoness continued. “the reason you keep losing your blood from letting your friends flash their asses or tits in front of you is that you’ve been keeping your inner dragon suppressed,” Gale explain, much to Fluttershy and Spike’s horror and embarrassment. The shy mare only fainted while holding her pet bunny tightly to her chest. “Oh, sweet Inari help me.”

Seer and Twilight, along with two other ponies, left the ballroom and entered the castle library.

The first was a light purple unicorn mare who had a purple mane and tail with an electric blue streak. She was dressed in a simple, yet elegant black gown with sapphires embedded into the bottom hem.

The second was a sunrise orange unicorn stallion with a darker orange shaded mane. He wore a gray suit underneath a dark blue cape with light blue stars stitched into it.

“I-I-It’s an honor to me you s-supreme mage, I mean your highness.” The stallion was on his hands and knees groveling before the nine-tailed fox. His body trembling being in front of a living legend who was thought to be an old pony’s tale.

“Seer is fine, and you really needn’t bow.” Seer said politely.

“O-Oh,” Sunburst quickly as he rose to his hooves and stood to attention, “Sorry It’s just that the myths and stories about the supreme mages I’ve heard...” Seer raised a hand to stop him before he could continue.

“There can only be one supreme mage.” Seer corrected. “And most of the stories are indeed true.”

“Sunburst, where have you heard those stories?” Starlight questioned, “I’ve never seen any in the libraries we visited together.”

“Oh, it’s “Myths and Legends of the world” vol. 12. It talks about the Supreme Mage and it’s, or rather his, accomplishments and feats,” Twilight interjected, “I may have leaned it to Sunburst when he was here last time.” She smiled sheepishly.

“Well, that explains it,” Starlight said as she rolled her eyes, “Anyway, Seer? Twilight, Sunburst, and I were working on a new spell. You see we tried several times to come up with the correct format for a rune that would restore something lost in the past back into its original conditions.”

“But when we activate the spell, it just creates a void that sucks everything in,” Sunburst continued, “We even asked Star Swirl for help, but even he couldn’t figure it out. We believe it has something to do with the format.”

“And you want my help to unlock this mystery?” The fox asked to which the three ponies nodded. “Alright, however, I ask only one thing in return.” All eyes turned to Seer expectantly. “Give me a reason why should I help the pony who destroyed the world on three separate occasions?” The lavender eyes of the unicorn grew to the size of saucers.

“Wait, you know?” a shocked Starlight asked.

“Of course I know, it’s my business to know. And You heard Twilight when she was telling you all about my clairvoyance. My destiny believes it or not is to watch the events in time unfold, and intervene only when someone or pony decides to change past event which affected the present and future in a negative way.” Seer explained. “Equestria is the start to most conflicts, the rest of the world soon follows.”

“I have seen the alternate timelines myself.” Twilight recounted, “Yes it may be true, but those events never occurred because my friends and I put a stop to them. Sombra, Discord, Tirek, Queen Chrysalis, Nightmare Moon, all of them were defeated.”

“True, but there is a thing called a time paradox, and alternate universes. The timelines you visited mostly Sombar, and Nightmare Moon should have never known you existed. I’m not going to go into more details to spare all of us a headache, but to put it simply, each timeline you went to prematurely triggered a world-ending event or time paradox that wiped out the universe because of a simple mistake in time. That and that barren wasteland both you, Starlight, and the little dragon saw is an unavoidable future.” Seer finished by crossing his arms together as his ocean blue eyes glared towards Starlight. “And my question stills stands.”

Starlight took a deep breath and said plainly, “I know that saying ‘I’m sorry’ won’t cut it and I know you’re angry at me for destroying the universe. But I’ve done things to redeem myself. I saved Equestria, helped with Twilight’s friendship school, and solved friendship problems. But if that isn’t enough, then I’ll accept any punishment you have for me.” At the end of the Starlight’s speech, she kneeled down before the nine-tailed fox and groveled at his feet, much to the surprise of Twilight and Sunburst. Seer sighed and rubbed the back of his head.

“Rise Starlight Glimmer,” Seer ordered and Starlight complied. “You’re just lucky that Twilight stopped you or I would have erased you from existence myself. I believe you’ve done enough for me to at least give you a chance. The fox then smile. “I’ll help you with the spell.” The three ponies all smiled. In a flash of white provided by the princess and her former student, a bag of black powder, a full inkwell, a couple of candles, and an old broken pot appeared all neat in a pile.

On the floor, Starlight took the bag of powder and poured it until a circle was formed. Twilight took the candles and placed them in the circle, with Starlight making a second layer with the black powder. Sunburst then used the ink within the inkwell to draw a star in the middle. Finally, he lit the candles and placed the broken pot in the middle. The magenta, electric blue, and sunset orange auras encased the horns of the ponies presents.

“STOP!” Called out the fox causing the three auras to dim instantly. “You three were about to open a portal to another dimension that would have most likely sucked all of us in. Not to mention you forgot to write the runes of 3, 6, 9, and 12 between the lines of your circle where you placed your candles. And lastly, that,” He pointed to the star, “should be either be a four-pointed star or an octagram.” The fox pointed out.

“Amazing!” Sunburst stated. Taking the candles off, he begins to write the symbols down where he had been instructed. “Do I place the candles back?”

“No, put them outside the circle,” Seer answered to which Sunburst complied. The red fox then waved his hand over the star drawing, causing it to instantly disappear. He then dipped the tip of one of his nine tails into the inkwell and drew the octagram. “Alright, you can activate it now.”

The magical auras encased the ponies horns again as they charged up their magical energies, they released the built-up energy and poured it into the rune. The ink began to emit a bright aurora light. The octagram begins to move counter-clockwise. Pieces of the broken pot began to reappear, and the pot itself began to reshape itself. It only took a few seconds for the pot to regain all of it pieces, color, and luster. The horns dimmed once again and the three cheered in unison.

“I can’t believe it worked.” Starlight yelled in joy. She then grabs the nine-tailed fox and pulled him into a hug. “You really know your rune magic.”

“That’s because I studied under the greatest teacher of all time.” The fox exclaimed while petting Starlight on the head.

“I um. . .want to ask you something, your majesty. Would it be any trouble for you to take me in as your student?” Sunburst asked shyly.

“Sure” Seer answered simply. “But first, would you mind getting off of me, Starlight.” The mare in question just sheepishly and nervously giggled as she released him from her embrace.

“Really?” Sunburst asked in disbelief. He thought that he would have to be tested or perform a magical spell unknown to ponykind.

“However.” That phrase dashed his hopes. “you must prove if you’re worthy enough to become my student,” Answered the fox. “You have a week and a half to do it.”

“B-But how?” Sunburst asked. “I mean I can analyze and explain magic, spells, hexes, and just about any magical item in Equestria. But actual spellcasting isn’t my strong point. And surely you, being The Supreme Mage, must know every single spell known to the world.”

“Well yes I do, but it doesn't stop me from developing new spells or improving on the old ones. That’s up to you to figure out. Oh, and your friends are also forbidden from helping you.” Seer added, making the three jaws drop. The emperor fox chuckled at the silly display and wished Sunburst good luck on his task.

The party continued into the night. Staying true to what he said, Seer feasted on every snack, treat, and food Pinkie Pie brought out. He and the others, besides Gale, were adapting given their biology, but pony foods like oats and berries could only go so far. They agreed to go out hunting tomorrow morning and leave Frostbite so she could serve her punishment. Because of this, it was also decided that they would bring Spike along to take Frostbite’s place. The little dragon showed the guests to their rooms and after telling each other goodnight, the party went to sleep.

Chapter Three: Nature Vs Nurture

Chapter Three

The Battle Between Nature and Nurture

Everfree Forest was known as a dangerous place where creatures such as timberwolves, manticore, cocktrice, and other predatory animals roamed and called it their home. If one wasn’t careful when they intrude the forest, the unfortunate victim would become lunch for one of these dangerous beasts. However, such dangers didn’t give the Everfree its name. In fact, the very nature of the forest seemed to refuse to allow ponies to have control. The clouds moved on their own, the plants seem to come to life, and not to mention the animals that lurked within the forest. Ironically, despite the sun’s rays revealing the lush green of the forest, a dark presence lingered.

Over the years however the ponies became less scared of the forest but remained cautious of the predators that lurked within the forest. This seemed to be the case with Spike. The small purple and green dragon was practically dragged out of bed by a grey dragoness ninja who insisted they get an early start, much to his dismay. He was still able to make breakfast for the two ponies that lived in the castle before leaving though, cooking a stack of banana flavored pancakes for Starlight and a batch of sweet potato muffins for Twilight, and a pot of coffee.

The group save for Spike wore a black leather tactical suit that clung to there body for added movement. Gale was standing by the door with Manto, Yajirushi, and Seer. All of them save for Spike wore a belt that held a couple of hunter’s knives, throwing knives, a compact hunting bow, and a canteen of water.

Yajirushi was the only one carrying a backpack which held pots, pans, a couple of spices, and dinnerware such as plates and forks.

Spike just wore a normal purple and green matching shirt and pants.

“I don’t understand why do you guys need to go and this early in the morning to get breakfast. I already made some and it’s waiting in the dining room.” complained the dragon. The sun was already up. Spike normally woke up early then the two mares, to make breakfast for the two.

“It’s simple really,” replied the storm dragon. “the prey we’re hunting are usually up around this time to gather food for the morning. Furthermore, I don’t think the kitsune here can live off of sweets, oats, and other pony foods for long.” The others nodded in confirmation.

“Besides, some of us don’t like eggs,” Manto spoke now having his mask removed.

“Don’t worry, we also brought some some pancakes mix, oil and a pan, along with some fuirts.” Yajirushi pointed to the backpack he was carrying.

“Ok then why does he need to go?” the dragon asked pointing to the nine-tailed fox. “Isn’t he like your king? Shouldn’t he and one of you stay here while the others go out to get...‘meat’?” Spike shuddered from the idea of the visitors eating other animals.

“Normally yes, but it’s an good excuse to get out of the castle get some exercise and not having to deal with any boring political stuff.” the emperor replied with a shrug not having the patience necessary to deal with the petty complaints of the nobles.

Seer extended his right hand, channeling his magical energy though the door. The red fox then opened the door, and instead of Ponyville, the door revealed the outside of Everfree Forest.

“Woah, how did you did that?” Spike asked in amazement.

“I’m able to channel a bit chaos magic though the door and when I opens it, it opens the place I want to go.” Seer answered holding his head up in pride. The group walked through the door, which closed behind them before disappearing.

“Alright,” The nine-tailed fox began. “we’re hunting small game today, no Boar or any large creature that lurks in the forest. If you spot a cottage or any small animal running towards the cottage don’t chase it, just turn around and go somewhere else. Yajirushi, take short stuff over here and set up. Gale, Manto, and I will get the food.” Before Spike could reply, the two foxes and dragon leapt into the trees, almost immediately blending in with the forest’s environment.

“So um... you know how to set a camp up?” asked the silver fox.

“Sure do.” Spike gingerly reply.

“Alright then.” The silver fox entered the forest with the little dragon trudging behind him.

“Say, can I ask you something, um...?” The small dragon asked while trailing off at his name.

“Yajirushi, and you already did,” the silver fox replied with a grin.

“That’s not what I meant,” Spike said while stifling a laugh, “I was wondering what made you want to work with a guy who seemingly knows everything?”

“Hmm...” The silver fox shrugged and said. “I honestly can’t answer that. I mean, sure I’m his friend, and personal guard and it seems very irrelevant for Seer Dono to have guards when he knows what’s going to happen in a 24 hour period and how to avoid it if necessary. Though... there are some instances where his predictions are wrong.”

“Heh, and here I thought he was perfect,” Spike chuckled.

“Hah, hell no he isn’t! God or not, he isn’t perfect. From what I know, he’s made plenty of mistakes.” Yajirushi stated. “In fact there are some foxes still believe he’s a virgin which isn’t true.”

“Pffft ha that the same with some of the ponie- Wait, he’s a god? Like Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Twilight?” the purple dragon asked once again in bewilderment.

“I don’t know about the last two, but yes.” Yajirushi chuckled. Once he found a clearing, the fox set his bag down. “Mind getting some wood for the fire?” The samurai begin to set up. Spike just sighed and did what he was asked.

Meanwhile back at the castle of friendship.

Dear princess of friendship,

I heard yesterday from your assistant that he has neglected his growth into a mature dragon. Part of it is your fault seeing that you’re friends with Ryujinn Ember, and I’m sure she would have informed you about his growth. I understand that eating meat is taboo in your lands, but every creature has a diet requirement in order to grow healthy including Spike. Also, gems can only do so much, so we’re taking him with us to the forest with us for breakfast. Don’t worry, he’ll be safe with us.

Feeling sorry for dragging your assistant out of bed,
Gale of The Stormy Skies

PS: The princess of the sun is also at fault.

Upon reading Gale’s letter, Twilight sighed. She had always wondered why Spike hadn’t grown as much as other dragons she had seen. Maybe it was her own fault for now seeing this. Pony life really did affect his growth in more ways than one. She always resorted to going to either Ember or Smolder to answer any dragon related questions. She thought Ember was busy ruling over the dragons, and Smolder, being her adviser, was busy as well. With that in mind, she figured it would be good for Spike to go with them. At least he made some breakfast for her and Starlight.

Back in the forest.

Spike was flying for his life from a manticore that he had just stumbled across while gathering firewood. The combination of a lion, scorpion, and bat was looking for food and naturally saw the small dragon as a tasty treat. Spike bobbed, weaved, and on some occasion, avoided trees. The beast however, was able to keep up with the flying dragon by moving around the trees, only for some of the tree branches to slow the manticore down.

Taking the opportunity, Spike flew into a hollow tree and hid there while still holding the firewood he had collected. The manticore slowly inched closer toward its prey. Once near, it raised its paw, ready to take out the tree where his meal hid.

“Here, kitty kitty kitty,” a voice rang out, gaining the beast’s attention. When the manticore turned its head, an arrow made of green magical energy suddenly hit its head, causing a small explosion powerful enough to send the beast flying a couple of yards. It raise to his paws, growling at it attacker.

“That was your one and only warning beast. The next one is going right through you. . .so I would suggest looking for your meal somewhere else, unless you don’t want live.” Yajirushi said threateningly while having his bow out and another arrow of the same green magical energy aimed right for the manticore’s head. With a loud roar, the beast charged, causing the fox to sigh at it foolishness.

“I warned ya...” he said as he let go of the string, sending the arrow flying toward its destination. Instead of blowing up upon contact like the last arrow, this one went right through the manticore’s head and exited through the back, leaving a massive hole behind. The beast slid along the dirt ground, only stopping a yard away from the silver-furred archer. The heat of the magical energy that was released, caused the wound to cauterize, stopping the blood from pouring down into the ground.

“You can come on out now Spike, it’s dead.” Yajirushi called out.

Spike popped his head out of the tree and gasped at the sight. A corpse of a manticore with a hole in its head and its body laying still at the fox’s paws. This was the first time the small dragon had seen the corpse of another animal. Of course, there were a few times when he helped Fluttershy bury some of her critters, but all of them were in boxes.

“And...” Yajirushi spoke knowing what was about to happen. Spike turned his head threw up all over the ground. “...there it is.” he finished, knowing anyone who wasn’t prepared to witness death at first hand would either gag, puked or fainted at the sight. This also include the citizens of this land, save for the guard.“You alright there?”

“Besides nearly being breakfast for a manticore and seeing it killed right in front of my eyes, I’ve been through worse...” Spike stated sarcastically.

“Oh, you haven’t seen anything yet...” Yajirushi said in a low tone that Spike couldn’t hear. “Come on, the others are waiting.” With a nod, the two went back to the campsite.

“So how did you know I was being chased? Don’t tell me, Seer told you?” Spike guessed, only for the silver fox to chuckle.

“Nah, he was still out when I heard you crying like a baby.” he recounted earning a glare from the small dragon. “I thought it was a timberwolf or something, but it turned out to be some kind of lion with wings and a poison scorpion tail.”

“Actually, it’s called a manticore.” Spike corrected him.

“Right, manticore. Knowing you don’t possess the strength to take one on ‘yet’. I felt I had to intervene.”

Spike held his head before raising it and looking at the fox. “Thanks a lot,” he said before realizing what he said. “Wait, what do you mean ‘yet’?”

“Well... dragon's your age should be able to take down this manticore, and other creatures twice your size with little to no problem.” Yajirushi replied.

“So you were going to let me get eaten?!” Spike asked stopping in his tracks.

“Not really, dude.” the silver fox then placed his hand under his chin, then stopped. “Actually, I couldn’t get a clean kill shot because you were bobbing and weaving between the trees, nice agility there by the way kid.” Yajirushi copmanted.

“W-Well thanks...” Spike said with a blush. Flapping his wings, the little dragon took off and over toward the silver fox who placed his bow on his back and walk towards the camp site.

“So what took you two so long?” asked the dragoness floating over the two. “We’ve been waiting for you for like two hours!”

“It’s only been a two minutes!” snarled Manto.

Yajirushi did set up the camp. Inside their little campsite was three fire pits with stones circling around them to prevent the flames from escaping. There were two stainless steel pans over two fire pits, and a pot over the other one. The flames danced around the wood, keeping whatever was inside the pot boiling. And a table that held berries and a large bowl filled with pancake mix ready to be poured. And a cup filled with maple syrup.

Seer was standing there holding three well sizable rabbits by the ear in a comedic fashion. Each of them kicking and screaming. Manto was sharpening his blade, against the stone.

“I remember it differently. Like how I got the firewood and stuff like that.” The dragoness lower her eyes. “I bet you were you was off chasing some monster out there while getting firewood? And have the nerve to bring Spike along. What if something happen to him. You have no idea what Twilight or Celestia would do to us if we return and he was missing a scale.”

“I was the one being attacked. . .Yajirushi.” The little dragon paused, remembering what the silver fox did to the manticore. “Was there to save me.” Spike finished and looked up at the silver fox, who just grinned.

“Well I’m glad you’re ok little buddy.” The dragoness smiled. Seer just sighed and encased two bunnies in a red aura and floated one over to Manto.

“You sure this is enough for five? Maybe we should had gotten a boar instead.” The black fox asked, to which Seer nodded.

“It should be enough for the five of us...and Frostbite. Beside where would we keep the leftovers of the boar?” Seer shrug. Then addressed Spike “Alright little guy, you might want to turn away.”

“I can handle it.” Spike said reassuring himself.

“I highly doubt that, but if you ever feel the need to puke in about a couple of minutes, please go over to those bushes.” warned Seer. “You may begin Manto.”

With a grin, the black fox placed the bunny down while using his shadows to keep the its limbs pinned. He took out his knife and raised it over his head, ready to end its life.

“WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING?! RELEASE THOSE POOR BUNNIES THIS INSTANT!!!” Fluttershy yelled to the top of her lungs, forcing the foxes to cover their ears. This caused Seer and Manto to lose concentration in there spells and set the bunnies free from there prison, allowing them to run behind the pegasus.

“How could you? Twilight told us you foxes were friendly, but how can you be friendly if you bully poor, innocent bunnies? What did they ever do to you?!” she demanded.

Shaking his head, Seer turned to Manto, “I’m inclined to agree with the Element of Kindness. We’re not barbarians like those damn diamond mutts. We’re better than that.” The reprimanding caught the ninja off guard. “You should’ve put it to sleep first before killing it.” The fox then turned to Fluttershy, who was staring intensely at the group and Spike who covered his eyes. “And there’s a difference between bullying and killing. Not to mention that we’re hungry.”

“Well I’m sorry but you can’t eat these bunnies.” Fluttershy firmly stated.

“Give us a reason why?” Seer asked with his head tilted to the side. “And don’t say they’re cute unless you want to annoy us.” he added as if knowing what the butterscotch pegasus would say.

“Well there’s other food you can eat beside the animals in the forest, like in Sugarcube Corner.” Fluttershy said hoping they won’t harm the bunnies. “That is if you want to.”

“Indeed, but if you haven’t noticed, we’re not ponies. And we still have this dragon’s stunted growth to deal with.” Seer stated. “So is there any other reason?”

“If you want, I could find you guys some fish, or I have some eggs you can cook. We also have protein substitutions so you wouldn’t have to-” the mare began only for her to be stopped by the nine tailed fox.

“Just stop, please.” Seer placed his fingers between his eyes and pinched the bridge slightly. “For starters, protein substitutes don’t do much in our diet and we don’t want to be starving throughout the entire week and a half. Also, unless we’re on an island with no inhabitants, we’re not eating fish.”

“Well I can’t just let you eat those bunnies. There must be something you want without harming the animals here,” pleaded the yellow mare.

“So what you’re saying is that you’re denying us of our breakfast?” the silver fox added.

“It looks like it.” Manto said a bit disappointedly.

“No, no, there are other options for you to eat. There’s no need to harm the critters here.” Pleaded the shy mare once more. This only made the group sighed.

“... Alright, what do you offer. We don’t eat ponies... we could, but that’s not really recommended.” Seer shrugged and looked at Fluttershy. He then turned to the dragon who still had his eyes closed. The emperor notice and just rose a brow at this.

“I didn’t want to do this but you force me to do this...” Fluttershy used her stare on the group. Her eyes only grew in intensity. The foxes and storm dragon just looked at the mare indifferently.

“Umm, Spike, what is she doing?” The dragoness whisper with her head tilted to the side. “She’s just staring at us.”

“She’s using the stare.” purple dragon replied with his eyes still shut tight.

“The stare?” the red fox asked somewhat amused. “It look more like intimidations to me.”

“It’s something Fluttershy came up with to make her animal friends behave.” Explained the purple dragon. “She only uses it when something or someone misbehaves or bullies someone.”

“Or something she doesn't agree with?” Asked the red fox, not phased by this stare the mare was giving them.

The teal eyes met with Fluttershy’s green blue eyes. Before the red fox could speak, Yajirushi beat him to it. “Please stop staring, it’s beginning to creep me out...” the silver fox cried out. When Fluttershy refused, his knees grew stiff and his body froze in fear. “Please stop!”

“Just close your eyes, genius.” Manto said looking away from the mare and towards his comrades. “Also, you’re a part of the royal guard. You’ve face Oni, Kappa, Shisa, Goryo, and other monsters that threaten the the royal family. And you’re telling us that you can’t handle a stare from a pony?”

“In my defense, I’ve never faced what you old timers have centuries ago,” retorted the silver archer who had closed his eyes.

“Alright, you can stop now Miss Shy. Your stare isn’t going to work against us.” the nine tailed fox spoke crossing his arms. “Except maybe on Yajirushi.”

“You sure about that?” asked the yellow mare in a strained voice.

“Well the thing is and I’m being honest here , the stuff you face were mere child’s play compared to the eldritch abominations we had to deal with on a daily basis.” Seer shivered, thinking of all the monsters and vengeful spirits he had to deal with. Not to mention the nightmares he and a special unit had to endure. “Besides, it’s already nine in the morning and I haven’t even had my cup of coffee or eaten breakfast. . .So with that said...” Seer snapped his fingers and time itself froze in place except for the nine tailed fox. He walked over and grabbed the three bunnies that stood behind the pegasus’ leg. He then walked over to where Manto was and opened the palm of the black fox’s hand before wrapping it around the rabbit’s ears.

Seer then chanted a few words before snapping his fingers once more, letting time resume. Once it did, the bunny that was in the ninja’s hand fell asleep as well as the two he was holding. “Manto, please prepare the meat,” the nine-tailed fox commanded, much to Fluttershy’s horror and confusion.

“H-How?”

“Oh, I stopped time... You might want to turn away or use that bush over there.” he suggested pointing towards the bush a few yards away from the camp. Before Fluttershy could protest, Manto plunged the shark knife he held into the bunny’s throat. That was the last thing he did before feeling a something press up against his muzzle. Manto flew back only to perform a backflip, sticking his fingers and paws to the ground.

“Ow ow ow ow ow ow!” Before the black fox could retort, he saw a yellow hoof coming right at his face. He had enough time to avoid the strike by ducking his head.

“Whoa there!” the ninja exclaimed catching the mare with his hand, only to winch in pain when he felt something striking him in his... family jewels.

“FFFF-!!” The black fox went down riding in pain. He then looked up only to see a very pissed off yellow pegasus mare wearing a green sleeveless sweater and a long pink skirt.

All parties were surprised, especially Gale and Yajirushi. A pony of all creatures was able to take down a highly trained ninja guard with hundreds of years of experience with a single punch and kick.

Seer made a mento note to review the training of his guard when he gets back.

“Always the quiet ones...” Seer spoke in amazement, only to catch and stop a knife traveling at high speeds with his index and middle fingers with the blade mere inches from his head. His ocean blue eyes gazed at the one who threw the knife. “You do realize what you’ve done, right?” he asked the angry mare. Before Fluttershy could move, she felt a sudden hard kick to the gut which sent her back flying to a tree. Before she could get up, the tips of a couple of arrows made out of silver magical energy price though the shy mare clothing and embedded themselves in the tree behind her.

“I will not stand by and let you hurt those poor animals!” she yelled standing up only to have the blades of two swords press against her neck. Her eyes stared at the grey scaled dragoness and the still recovering black fox with anger and hate in their eyes “You may think we’re okay with you and your guard coming here and bullying the animals before eating and I’m sorry, but you’re in the wrong land mister. If you want to eat then you have to get your food somewhere else!” Fluttershy yelled at the top of her lungs.

The red nine-tailed fox just rolled his eyes. Fluttershy was about to move, but the blades dug a bit deeper, slowly drawing blood.

“Try and move bitch and we’ll remove your fucking head from your shoulders.” the dragoness growled, surprising Spike.

“You’re lucky we don’t kill you right here and now.” Manto whom quickly recover from his assaulted added with Yajirushi aiming his energy made arrow right at the yellow mare’s head, sending her into too much of a panic to use her stare.

She didn’t realize the how harsh the nine-tailed fox’s guard would respond.

“And now because of you just try to kill me, you just caused an international incident.” Seer sighed. “Spike, I’m sorry but can you bring Princess Sparkle here? Yajirushi, find Frostbite and bring her up to speed. Gale, get Princess Celestia. If they said she’s busy. . . Which she really isn’t, and if the guards try to stop you, knock them out, then tell her what happen and a reason as to why you assaulted her guard.”

With a nod, the dragoness was gone in a flash while Spike just looked at his shy friend with sadness, before flying back to the castle.

Manto pulled Fluttershy up and tossed her to the ground. Her shadow appeared to grow larger and larger. Hands began to form and drag her into the darkness kicking and screaming.

Both foxes waited until the air around them turn colder. “WHERE THE FUCK IS SHE!?” screamed an angry arctic fox. Her clear white katana which shone in the light of the sun sliced through the air. “How dare she attack Seer Dono over some fucking bunnies! And why didn’t you kill her for doing such thing!”

“And what would you have us tell the princesses, that we killed an animal loving bitch that prevented us from eating breakfast and attacked us?!” yelled Manto all while clenching his crotch. “Besides, I have her trapped in Naraku no rōgoku.

“Um Nara what now?” asked a now worried Applejack who had just arrived.

“It means Prison of the Abyss. And that’s where she’s staying until this matter is resolved.” Manto explained in a firm tone despite the pain he was feeling. The yellow eyes slid to the left, then the black fox leaned back, letting a rainbow blur pass him. The ninja grab the leg of the pegasus and tossed her to the ground, making her skid across the dirt. Getting back up, Rainbow, who was wearing a black sports bra and matching shorts, tried to charge at the black fox again only to be held down by her shadows once more.

“Let her go you freaks!” Rainbow yelled.

“Let go of a pony who tried to killed the ruler of a foreign land? Yea not very likely.” Manto replied. Before he could say anything, Twilight, along with Spike, Starlight, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity soon arrived as well. Starlight’s horn glowed an electric blue aura. Its shine casting the shadows away. With Rainbow free, she charged at the black fox once again, only to be stopped by a red aura. All eyes stared to the crimson fox with his right hand extending and covered in the matching crimson aura.

“I would greatly appreciate it if you don’t attack my guard.” Seer warner as he released Rainbow from his hold.

“Mind tell me what’s going on, and where is Fluttershy?” the princess asked worriedly.

“We have that shy bitch in a prison of darkness.” Gale spoke in a low growl. Hearing this, Rainbow Dash was about to move and tackle the dragoness but was stopped by a violet light provided by Twilight.

“Rainbow Dash.” Seer began. “I understand you’re upset, but your friend did commit a crime. And if you so much as to strike me or any of my guard, I will consider this not only an act of aggression, but an act of war, and you will be the first to feel my wrath.”

“Challenging one of the Fates Rainbow Brash? As entertaining as that would be, I would highly reconsider it if I were you. You just have no idea the things he’s capable of doing.” An voice spoke in the distance. Looking up, a creature could be seen sitting on a pink cloud while munching on popcorn. It had a deer antler on the right, a blue goat horn on the left, one long fang, different-sized pupils, a snake tongue, a goat beard, and white bushy eyebrows. He has the arm of a lion, and a claw of an eagle, he also had a right leg of a lizard, and a left leg of a goat. In addition, he had a bat's wing on the right, a pegasus wing on the left, a horse's mane, and a dragon-like snake's tail with a white tail tuft. The shape of his body resembled that of a snake.

Teleporting from his cloud seat, the creature appeared right before Rainbow Dash, placing an arm over her shoulders. All while showing the cyan pegasus action figures of her and the nine-tailed fox in fighting stances with the latter beating the former “Fox boy here can, and will, ruin both your life and afterlife. Oh, and to put the cherry on top of the cake.”he said while placing a cherry atop a cake showing Rainbow and Seer in various combat positions, “If he wanted, he could easily erase you from existence entirely.” The creature grinned.

“Discord. It’s been a while.” Seer spoke narrowing his eyes.

“Why yes it has, little Seer.” The Draconequus disappeared in a flash of light and reappeared in front of Seer with a pair of binoculars, staring at the fox. “I see time has been kind to you. Not surprising, since you own it. And I must say how is that fine vixen that is your mother doing?”

“If you said you did her, I swear will in prison you myself.” Seer reply. “But other than that, she’s okay. And how about your cousin, Princess Eris?”

“Oh she’s doing good. Now that that’ formalities are out of the way.” Discord said as he pulled out a pair of goofy looking shards seemingly from out of nowhere. They suddenly began emitting a bright light that blinded everyone except Discord and Seer with the latter closing his eyes. Once the light dimmed, Celestia was standing there in all her glory.

“Release her.” Seer ordered, to which Manto nodded. He placed his hand on his shadow, causing it to expand. Slowly, the yellow-coated, pink-maned mare rose from the shadows. Her arms, and legs chained in black like shackles, her wings bonded in three black leather straps. She squinted her eyes once the rays of the sun hit her. Once she adjusted to the light, she only saw a disappointed look on her friend, and a displeased look on Celestia’s face with a hint of anger.

“Explain.” the princess of the sun demanded both harshly and bluntly.

“T-T-T-T-They were about to k-k-kill three innocent b-b-bunnies and feed them to Spike...” the shy mare said weakly. Celestia looked over at Seer.

“Is this true?” she asked with a frown on her face

“It is.” Seer replied casually, Much to the others disgusts, all but Twilight. “Just like what Gale said when she and Spike spoke, living amongst ponies has affected his growth. Also, because he been living with ponies for so long, he suppressed his dragonic nature, which is part of a dragon’s biology.” His eyes then turned to Celestia. “Which then begs the question, why didn’t you do something about it? You are allies with the western dragons, right? Surely you notice something different about Spike, like why wasn’t he growing? Did you even bother contacting Ember about this problem?” The nine-tailed fox eyed the both Twilight and Celestia who looked down in shame.

“I know you care for Spike, but leaving him small isn’t healthy for him, no matter how cute he may look. What if something happens that is out of your control and none of his friends are around?” Seer sighed softly. This question left both princesses speechless.

There were times when they wondered why Spike wasn’t growing. They knew that dragons lived for a long time and that their growth rate was slow, but they didn’t know that living with ponies was affecting his growth. If they had known, both Celestia and Twilight would have sent Spike to the dragon lands with Smolder for a while so he could learn a bit about dragon culture.

“Anyway, Fluttershy here assaulted my guard and nearly committed regicide.” Seer recounted, “If this was Vulpus Terra, she would most likely either be sentenced to death or worse. However since the crime was committed on Equestrian soil, I don’t have the jurisdiction to pass judgement, so the decision is yours princesses.”

Celestia and Twilight looked down at the bonded mare with sadness and disappointment. The teal eyes of the former looked over at her friend, who other than Rainbow Dash was sharing the same expression. “Fluttershy, what you did was noble, but it was also wrong. You were not only rude to our guests, but instead of making friends, you created an enemy of Equestria. As punishment for your actions, you will first sit and eat with our guests. Afterwards, you will be Seer’s attendant for the duration of his stay here in Equestria.” Celestia continued to speak, but no words came out of her mouth.

Fluttershy blinked as she was suddenly free from her bindings. Twilight Celestia, all her friends,even Discord seem to vanished leaving her alone with Seer, Manto, Yajirushi, Gale, and Spike. Manto was holding the knife to the bunny’s throat. All but the two were still, as if time had stopped.

“This is your future if you choose to act Ms.Fluttershy. And as noble as it is, you of all ponies should understand that animals like me need to prey on others, not only for suavial, but for population control. Too many of one thing is harmful to the ecosystem.” The tails of the fox waved from side to side. “What will you do? Act and attack out of rage, or stand there and let us do what nature attends? The choice is yours. However if you choice to watch, or leave, you have my word no harm will come to your pet bunny, or any animals in your cottage or sanctuary. That also does not mean take every single animal from the forest hide them in your cottage and sanctuary.” he asked as time resumed.

The ninja then moved the knife down, cutting all the way down towards the tail. Lucky for the black fox, the bunny he killed was female so he didn’t have to remove the genitals. From there, Manto began to remove parts from the bunny that weren’t useable like the bladder and intestines.

Once that was done, Manto cut a small hole around the bunny’s anus and pulled it out from the inside of its body. He then rolled it over to drain its blood. This process continued three times with Seer handing the ninja a new body. Once the blood was drained, Gale took the body and began to remove the fur before passing it along with the liver, kidney, and heart towards Yajirushi who added spices and herbs, as well as fat to make the meat taste better and so it wouldn’t stick into the pan.

All the while, Spike and Fluttershy were horrified at what they were witnessing. The brutal murder and skin removal of her animal friends. The sickening aroma of their parts being cooked a company with the scent of pancakes mixed with berries.

She couldn’t just attack the group out of sorrow and revenge, and even if she did, Seer’s guards would subdue and imprison her in darkness. This of course would cause an international incident that would paint Equestria in a bad light.

There was nothing she could do, they intended on having bunnies. Fluttershy knew rabbit’s most famous predators were foxes, which made her worry for Angel’s safety. Seer however did said he wouldn’t harm any animal in her care.

Spike was having it rough. He had to eat the meal the group was preparing. They said it would help him grow, but they had alternatives such as protein pills and even fish, which was meat so he could eat that instead of bunnies. But the aroma of the meat was intoxicating. He always thought of eating some of the animals Fluttershy had, but pushed that to the side since he was her friend.

He was raised by ponies. Ponies don’t eat meat. Being taught their ways, included eating cannibalism wasn’t just immoral, it was just plain wrong. Yet here were three foxes, and a dragon cooking a once living creature so he can eat it.

As Seer predicted, Fluttershy ran over to a nearby bush to throw up the contents she had all over the ground. ‘Glad the wind is blowing the smell away from our meal.’ Seer thought to himself.

When Fluttershy returned, Gale offered her a napkin and a bottle of mouthwash she had by order of Seer, which she accepted without hesitation, and used. “Y-Y-You...” She stumbled over her words after spitting out the minty liquid.

However the nine tailed fox who, with a snap of his fingers, created a polish wooden table and chairs with cushions to add comfort to their rumps cut her off by saying, “Heartless monsters? How could we kill innocent creatures such as bunnies? Well for one, bunnies are a kitsune’s favorite delicately. And it’s not heartless if you really think about it. It’s more of a survival instinct all creatures have. The need to live at any cost in the wild. Sure, foxes are omnivores, but like most..” he paused then winced at the word that was about to come out of his muzzle, “...dogs, our diet mainly consists of meat.”

“Predators exist for population control. Bunnies can reproduce rapidly, and such a large family would mean more food. And if every creature was an herbivore or didn’t eat meat, then we’d either be at war for food, or food itself would be very scarce,” the storm dragon chimed in while setting up the plates. “Being an animal expert, you should already know this,” The ninja then stared at the pink mane mare. “Right?”

Fluttershy didn’t say anything. She was too traumatized from the scene she had witnessed. “I think we broke her,” Gale said waving her hand in front of the mare’s eyes.

“Maybe...” Manto said rubbing the back of his head with his tail. The black tailed fox reached behind his back for his canteen, opened it, and poured the water on his bloodstained hands and fur. “Or maybe she just wasn’t ready to accept the truth.”

“About what?” Yajirushi asked after coming down from the spook that was the stare and taking a seat on the chair. “We’re predators. We eat meat in order to survive. That is the order of nature. And I want the bunny’s liver.” the silver fox called out.

“Hey! You’re not cooking, I am. And you get whatever I’m serving.” Yelled the black fox who was indeed in the middle of cooking the meat while at the same time flipping the pan that held the pancakes.

“Give the dragon the heart.” Seer ordered. “And I’ll take a loin.”

“Hmm, what do we do about the parts we won’t eat milord?” asked the storm dragon.

“Just save some for Frostbite. The rest is going to the little dragon here.” The nine tailed fox sat down on the table, waiting to be served. “Also Fluttershy, you can join us if you want.”

“Yea Manto is also making pancakes.” Gala spoke sitting down on the wooden chair.

It wasn’t long before Manto placed a liver on the plate for Seer, as well as a heart and a couple of shoulders for Spike, a loin and another liver for Yajirushi, and a couple of ribs for Gale. Fluttershy was served a stack of pancakes cover in maple syrup. Though she hesitated at first, Fluttershy picked up her fork and knife, still shivering from the display of brutality she and the purple dragon witnessed. The butterscotch mare gazed at the group who was just eating the cooked bunnies nonchalantly. It was good, but not not as good when Spike or Pinkie makes it.

The purple and green dragon looked at meat before him. He had never imagined he would eat something so vile despite it smelling relatively good. Picking up the heart, Before he could take a bite the dragoness stopped him. “Woah there. Before you take a bite you have to give thanks.”

“Woah give thanks to whom?” The purple dragon asked in confusion. His head tilted to the side.

“It consider disrespectful for not giving thanks to the animal that gave up his life for you too live. And for the ones who brought you food.” Yajirushi said placing his paws together in a pray. Fluttershy was about to say something but swallow the remaining pancake she was eating and follow sult. Along with the others.

“Itadakimasu!” All of them said in unison which surprised the visitors.

“Naghponies?” Seer asked to which Spike and Fluttershy nodded.

The purple and green dragon took a bite and winced at the tender feeling and the sweet yet salty and savory taste of the meat. After taking a small bite, the dragon began to chew it and contemplate the taste before gently swallowing it.

It was then that something within Spike snapped. After taking the first bite, the purple and green dragon began to devour the rest of the heart like a wild animal. When he was done, the dragon wanted more. The nine-tailed fox pointed to the rest of the meat on the plate to which Spike ate it all the more. Fluttershy only watched in horror as the small dragon she knew and called a friend consumed her animal friends. Gale did mention that eating meat would help him grow which she failed to notice, but it was at the cost of her critters. Sons and daughters to a family of the adorable animals that roamed around the Everfree who often visited Fluttershy’s cottage.

She’d never see Spike the same way again. She look at her pancakes that was given to her, then the rest of the group who was eating there meals. Fluttershy hesitantly picked up her fork and sink the four sharp edges into the fluffy goodness of the pancake.

More bunny meat was placed on the smaller dragon’s plate. Spike then looked at Seer before taking a deep breath. “So, um, Seer?” he asked while chewing his food.

“ You know It’s rude to talk with your mouth full, but yes?” the red fox replied only with a grin.

Spike blushed and swallowed before continuing. “Is it true that you’re a god? Like Celestia, Luna, Cadence, and Twilight?” the little dragon asked, not noticing he was gradually starting to get bigger.

“A Tenko literally means Celestial fox, so yes. I don’t know about Twilight or this Cadance tho.” Seer replied calmly.

“And you can see the future of everyone?” Spike asked as his growth continued.

Seer raised a brow, but nodded and replied, “Well my name is Seer for a reason.”

“I was wondering,” Spike tapped his claws together, “I have this, um, friend that really likes someone and-”

“Spike...” the red fox interrupted. “I have lived longer than Celestia and Luna, nor was I born yesterday. A lot of creatures have asked me about their coming futures, especially about any crush they may have. I know what you want to ask me so just come out and ask me.” The dragon gulped at the fox’s words, but nodded. All eyes were on him.

“I want to know if there’s a future between me and Rarity!” Spike yelled in a deeper tone than normal.

“There, was that so hard?” Seer chuckled. “Anyway, the answer to you question is that there is.” That simple answer was enough to lighten Spike’s mood. Now he didn’t care if he ate all of the meat here, as long he got the mare of his dreams. “However...” With those words, his hopes were dashed as fast as they came. “The love you want is extremely hurtful and, in some cases... toxic.”

“W-W-What?” The dragon asked out of disbelief.

“She does love you, but only as a friend. Nothing more.” Seer said somberly.

“W-W-What if I said I’m the son of the princess?” Spike clambered desperately, “Surely she would-”

“That would only make it worse for all parties.” the fox interrupted as he stared deep into the dragon’s eyes. “And the longer you fond over her, the more miserable you’ll become. And once you realize she wasn’t the one, it would be too late. Suitable lovers you rejected will have moved on.” Upon saying those words, the dragon was in tears. This was enough for Fluttershy as her attention was now drawn to their conversation and placed her hand on Spike’s shoulder.

“S-S-S-S-So, there’s no chance for me and her to be together?” the dragon asked between sobs.

“There is, but is that what you really want?” The fox asked while his ocean blue eyes started at the dragon. “Remember, the love you want will be a false one, and in the long run you and Rarity will both be miserable. Which will leads in one of you, mostly you getting hurt.”

“What he’s saying is that there are other fishes out in the sea.” Manto replied, taking a bite off his roasted bunny loin. After chewing it he said. “And once you catch one, don’t let go.”

The dragon sniffed and Fluttershy thankfully gave him a napkin to blow his nose. “I-I-It’s going to be hard. I’ve known her for so long.” he sniffled.

“N-N-Nothing is easy Spike...” Fluttershy spoke softly in a motherly tone. “But I’m sure a pony, or dragon, is out there and would love to date you.”

Before Spike could say anything, something soft blinded him. He quickly took it off and looked at it. It was a purple kimono with a lime green sash and a purple hakima.

“Yajirushi, help the dragon put those on,” Seer ordered while finishing his meal. Spike was about to protest until he heard something tearing. He looked down to see his shirt and pants starting to rip from his body. It was then that he noticed how much bigger he had gotten and quickly stood up in surprise. He couldn't believe it as the clothes he was wearing were getting tighter by each second. He felt his feet touching the grass, his tail grow longer, his wings getting bigger, and his spines becoming sharper.

At the moment, he was getting as tall as the current dragon lord.

“Come on, before you rip off your clothes.” Yajirushi said walking behind a tree. Both the purple dragon and yellow mare blushed as Spike rushed to where the silver fox was while being careful to not rip the clothes made for him by Rarity.

When they were gone, Seer snapped his fingers once more, creating a bento lunch box. Getting up from his seat, the nine-tailed fox walked over and began to fill the box with some roasted loins, a few ribs, and a couple of pancakes. “Gale, since you’re the fastest, I task you to give this to Frostbite in Sweet Apple Acres.”

Taking the box, the dragoness nodded at the order and, in a flash of white that left a trail which faded in a second, the dragoness was gone. A few minutes later, the dragoness returned only with her arm covered in ice. “How did you deal with that real stick in the mud fox anyway milord?”

“Please elaborate for us, and why your arm is frozen?” Seer asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Well I brought her the food like you said, and told the farmer ponies not to gag since she eats meat. What I didn’t know was that there had a pet dog and said dog smelled the food and chased Frostbite up a tree where she growled. I laughed and then she fired a beam of icy energy at me. I dodged it of course, but it kind of hit my arm. So I ran out of there.” Gale said still giggling at the facial expression the arctic fox made when she saw the dog.

Seer didn’t know how to respond to that. Though he was laughing on the inside, deep down he felt sorry that his guard had to go through such an ordeal. At that moment, Yajirushi and Spike came out from the bushes. The purple and green dragon had changed into the clothing akin to samurai. “So, do I get swords or something?”

“Do you know how to use a sword?” Yajirushi asked chuckling.

“Well, um, Shining Armor and I used to do swordplay when I was younger...” the purple dragon answered embarrassed.

“So I’ll just take that as a no.” the silver fox chuckled.

“You’re a samurai right? So where are your swords?” asked the dragon crossing his arms.

“I don’t use them...” Yajirushi replied.

“Then how can you be a samurai if you don’t use swords?!” the dragon yelled.

“You’re right. How can I be a samurai if I only use bows and arrows?” the silver fox grabbed his crossbow and stared at it. “Well you don’t have to wield a sword in order to become a samurai. One learns it by following Bushido. Or in pony languages, the ways of the samurai.”

“Bushido... like those Japonese mangas?” Fluttershy squealed then covered her mouth. Gale and Yajirushi both had a twinkle in their eyes, much to Seer’s and Manto’s displeasure.

“And here we go.” Seer and Manto commented simultaneously.

“You read manga as well!” Both the silver fox and storm dragon rush over to the shy mare and bombarded her with questions such as Cupcake Wars, Navy Moon, Noodle 1/2, Revolt Mare Utena, Neon Exodus Evangelion, and the main streams Ninto, Detergin, and Bit Piece. She was able to answer them, and tell them her favorite manga.

The conversation the three had continued. “Well I’ll put out the fire.”Seer said and snap his fingers. The campfire disappeared along with the pans. “And done.”

“Where’d you put them?” Spike asked.

“Oh, someplace special...” replied Seer with a confident smirk on his face.

Vulpus Terra Palace Kitchen

Kori was a eight-tailed white female fox who worked in the palace kitchen since Hourglass rule. As the palace head chef she was responsible for preparing food for the royal family as well as their guests. Whether it be a formal gathering, a party, or the famous holiday ‘Kansha-sai’ dinner. Thankfully, Kori had a team of well known chefs behind her.

With the emperor gone on his diplomatic mission/vacation, Kori was happy that he left. This give her the time she needed to make more recipes. That and she gave her team a little vacation. She was in the kitchen alone reading various suggestions on the new menu from her staff for when he returned when her ears picked up upon hearing a series of loud clangs. Closing her book, she walked over to the source and was surprised to see a pot and two pans in one of the three sinks.

“Oh for the love of Inari!” The white vixen screamed.

Chapter Four: Cold Day In Sweet Apple Acres

Chapter Four

Cold Day in Sweet Apple Acres

‘I can’t believe I have to do this! I’m a Zenko for Inari’s sake. I shouldn’t be doing any harvesting whatsoever!’ Frostbite thought while walking through the streets of Ponyville. Even though Princess Celestia hasn’t risen the sun yet, a few ponies were already awake and doing some early activities. Frostbite was unaware of the stares she was receiving, especially from a certain cyan pegasus who was doing her morning rounds.

Normally, the arctic fox would wear a black kimono with white haori and a snowflake symbol on the back. Instead, she wore a black tank top that was clinging to her B-cup size chest, with matching shorts that reached her thighs. Furthermore, her long silk white hair was tied into a ponytail, as despite being Seer’s personal guard for several decades, Frostbite still retained her girlish charm. The twin-tailed vixen continued to complain in her head while she trudged towards her punishment.

Frostbite used to be the tenth captain within thirteen imperial court unit of Vulpes Terra, a guard dedicated to enforce and protect the citizens of the island nation. In due time, Frostbite was promoted to join the royal guard and shortly afterward, became one of Seer’s five personal guards. The vixen was a bit hot-headed, despite her name and abilities. Very much displeased by this, Seer accurately theorized that Frostbite’s lack of discipline that stemmed from being spoiled by her noble family.

The frustrated vixen tried to calm down a little and temporarily stopped walking in order to put some thought into what it was that got her into this situation. ‘If only those ponies did a little more research and provided they leave the safety of their land, none of this would have happened.’The vixen’s mind continued to wonder even as she resumed walking and she soon arrived at the front gate of Sweet Apple Acres. “But this is what I deserve after attempting to claim Princess Sparkle’s life...” she sighed. “Well let's get this over with.”

In front of the arctic fox was a wooden red door. Frostbite began to lightly knock on the door. No answer. She knocked once more. No answer. She was about to bang on the door until it opens, revealing a tall red stallion with a dirty blond mane and tail. She wore a plaid button up shirt and blue jeans. Even though he was about an inch shorter than Seer, he had a build to him. She still needed to look up.

“Um, hello...” she said waving her hand. The stallion looked down at Frostbite, with a raised brow and didn’t respond to the vixen’s greeting.

“Um yes, I’m here by order of Seer Dono to, um... help out around your farm,” Frostbite spoke nervously. The stallion just nodded and move to the side, allowing her to come in. Without hesitation, the fox enter then look around. It was like any normal house, A sofa by a wall, a staircase that leads to the upper floor, a bookshelf that covers nothing but apples, and a couple of algebra books which surprised the white fox.

“Woah, who, and what is that?” a southern voice rang. Frostbite looked up only to see a yellow coated mare in her late teens early 20s coming downstairs with a groggy look in her amber-colored eyes. Her red mane was quite messy, indicating she had just got up from bed and had yet to brush it. When it came to clothing, she wore only a white button shirt, which didn’t hide her cutie mark of a red, pink, and purple shield with an apple in the middle. The shirt also failed to cover her thick well-toned thighs, as well as her b-cup size breast, and white panties.

The vixen raised a brow at such rudeness, but shake it off. “Kind of rude, but my name is Frostbite, and I’m a fox. Well, arctic fox to be precise.” she replied.

“Sorry, Ah never saw a fox before. Anyway, ma name’s Applebloom!” The mare exclaimed. “And this quite big stallion right here is Big Macintosh, but we call him Big Mac.”

“Eeyep.” The stallion reply.

“Oh so he does speak.” Frostbite commented.

“Ah can talk, but Ah don’t do it a lot ma’am,” the red stallion spoke in a deep southern accent.

“Um... okay then...” the fox shrugged, feeling kind of awkward now.

“So um if ya don’t mind me asking, what are ya doing here?” Applebloom asked with her head tilted to the side.

“Oh um, to help out with the chores out of punishment,” she answered pointing her two index fingers together.

“Applebloom no need to asked our guest personal questions.” Came another southern voice from upstairs. The orange mare with a blond mane wearing her seton walked downstairs. She wore blue pajamas with light apples all around. “But if ya want to know it because she here tried to kill Twilight over a silly assumption.”

“Ya did what?” Applebloom screams staring at the white fox who taps her fingers in embarrassment.

“Well in my defense Princess Sparkle did call my lord a fraud. Not the words she used.” Frostbite lower her head in shame.

“And ya think it okay to try and assassinate the princess?!” the yellow mare yelled.

“Applebloom, ya would had done the same thing if somepony called ya boyfriend a fraud,” Applejack says only for Big Mac to raise a brow at the sudden comment.

“Ya had what now?” the eldest apple asked with a look of disapproval and a bit of anger on his face.

“Ah um got mahself a boyfriend...” Apple Bloom said shyly trying to sink back upstairs.

Big Mac said nothing, but shrugged which surprised both sisters. “Well as long he isn’t hurtin’ ya then it’s fine. Though Ah might want to meet them.”

“Meet who Macy?” asked a dark pinkish unicorn mare with a dark purple curly mane, and tail with the end tied in blue and white beads who happen to step out of the kitchen. She wore a purple bathrobe with a simple of a purple frosted cupcake. The top was slightly off, revealing parts of her cleavage. The unicorn was as big as the second eldest sibling in the chest department. She then notices Frostbite standing beside the stallion, who just waves. “Oh hello, you must be one of the foxes Princess Twilight told us about. My name is Sugar Belle, Big Mac’s wife.”

“Do all of Equestria know about us coming into this land?” asked a now confused vixen.

“Nah sugacube, just Ponyville,” Applejack answered.

“Okay then... When do we um... get started?” Frostbite asked with each of her tails swaying.

“Now hold yer apples there. Ah know yer eager ta get started, but at least let the rest of us get ready,” Applejack started with the rest of them nodding.

Before Frostbite could say anything, her ears picked up on something getting up. She then heard barking, which caused the white fox to jump up and cling to the ceiling for dear life. She looked down only to see a brown and white dog, barking up towards her while wagging her tail in excitement.

“Um... Miss Frostbite?” Sugar Belle asked with her head tilted to the side. Realizing what is going on, she spoke, “Um I think we should take Winona out.” After everyone else agreed, Big Mac, who was the only one dressed, decided it was his turn to walk Winona. With a whistle, the stallion walked out, and Winona ran over to his side. Once the dog was gone, the white vixen dropped, landing on her back.

“Ow...” she groaned and Applejack went over to her up.

“Ya alright there? Ya look spooked when ya saw Winona,” Applejack asked in a worried tone.

“I-I-I’m fine as l-l-long that d-d-d-dog isn’t around...” Frostbite shakingly stated, rubbing her rump.

“Well, Ah have breakfast ready if you want some,” Sugar Belle added walking back into the kitchen.

Frostbite was lead to the Apple family’s dining room. Inside was a round table, four chairs, and a small vase with a single flower. There were also several pictures on the left side of the wall. A few of an elderly lime green mares with a white mane who was sitting in a wooden rocking chair dressed in an outfit made in the early days of pony settlement. Sugar Belle, along with Applejack, came out with a plate of pancakes with the top covered in whip cream and garnish with brownish powder. A bowl with a spoon on it in her other hand. Sugar Belle follow suit. She held a tray with several muffins of different flavors, Hay bacon strips, a pot of coffee, and several cups in a violet aura the same as Princess Twilight. Big Mac who enter from the back, gave his wife a quick peck on the cheek.

“Sorry um we weren't expecting company this early in the morning I can quickly make you something, if you like?”

“No need,” The fox said with a smile softly. “I’m um kind of punishment and I’m sure eating was apart of the punishment.”

“Well dat’s some of the biggest bullshit Ah ever head!” Apple Bloom stated. “Ya not allow to eat?!”

“Apple Bloom watch your mouth!” Applejack warned.

“No, it’s fine. There are worse things he could have done...” Frostbite stated.

“Like what, make yah go buck naked around town and having someone ah mean fox yelling shame over and over while the town folks throw stuff at ya.” Apple Bloom imaging that her ruler was a mean dictator wanting power and only power.

“Compare to his other sentences that would be tame. As for any creature who cause trouble or did a minor crime. He most likely makes some fool live in the same pain as the victim or sent to prison.” Frostbite begins. “But the crime rate there is rather low, mostly due to the examples we demonstrated.” The fox giggle at the thought of some noble running around naked which did happen on a couple of occasions. She left out what will happen to those that commit horrible acts on the people and crown.

“Ah was right, he was a dictator only looking for power.” Apple Bloom stated. This would normally get under the white fox’s fur and skin, having some creature speaking badly of her emperor. However, Frostbite remembers what her emperor said that ponies would make assumptions.

“You’re wrong. He’s fair and kind to all of his subjects. He only gives punishment to those who deserve it.” The fox shot back. “Maybe you don’t think he’s good, because you never met him. . .Now I think about it, you weren’t at the party yesterday were you?” The arctic fox asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Well no, Ah was out of town helping meh friend out in finding her calling.” Apple Bloom explained but the white vixen wasn’t convinced.

She just nodded.

“Well, either way, I’m not hungry.” The white vixen said shaking her head. “But um I would like a cup of coffee.” She said smiling.

“You sure you don’t want anything else?” The unicorn asked, only for the fox to shake her head. “Like a muffin or cereal?

“I’m sure.” She said smile. Sugar Belle only nodded and went back to get an extra cup. She came back a minute later and poured the hot liquid into a cup for the guess. Frostbite grab the cup, and once she touched it, the steam the black liquid was producing disappeared. If someone would touch it, the cup would be ice cold. The mixture of apples and cinnamon which was tasty.

“So I’ve been meaning to ask...” Frostbite begin taking a sip of her cold coffee. “...any reason you have a tattoo on your rump? Ms. Apple Bloom?” All four pair of eyes stared at the white fox, then back at Apple Bloom. Both the elder brother and sister were about to say something about having clothes on when company is here but remembered that the vixen came before Celestia rose the sun.

“Oh um sorry, we’re normally dressed when company comes over, but that ‘tattoo’ is called cutie mark,” Apple Bloom answered, only for the arctic vixen to tilt her head to the side.

“Beg your pardon? A cutie what now?”

“A cutie mark. It a mark that represents a pony’s talent.” The teenage mare got up and lifted up her shirt flashing her cotton white panties. She then pulled the panties upward revealing more of her cutie mark that was hidden away, much to her sibling's shock and horror.

“Apple Bloom!” Applejack yelled. “show some dignity to ya guest, no need to show her ya cutie mark as a demonstration.”

“Well, she asked.” Apple Bloom restorative pulling her shirt down.

“Your sister is right, it’s rude to show a guest what’s a girl is hiding underneath there clothing. And just so you know.” She placed the cup she held down and pointed to the red stallion. “There is a male here. Brother or not.” Frostbite added only for the yellow mare cheeks to turn into a crimson color. “Unless you’re a geisha.”

“Ah geish what now?” Apple Bloom asked confused.

“It’s a fancy way of saying ‘prostitute’ in my land,” Frostbite corrected herself. “And before you say anything, no that wasn’t meant as an insult. Anyway, your destiny is tied to this cutie mark?” Picking up the cup, she sipped the cold liquid contained in the cup. Hoping to diffuse the situation.

“Basically. Ponies would get it after discovering a talent. It took me a while to get it. Nearly cost mah everything ah knew and love to get it.” Apple Bloom said remembering the ordeal she and her other friends had to do and endure in order to get their cutie marks. They were fun and often get the trio in trouble.

“Hmm. Interesting. So I’m guessing everypony has one.” The white vixen took a sip of her coffee once more, her eyes looking around the room.

“Oh not every pony.” Applebloom answer. “Mah and mah friends help ponies who can’t find their talent.”

“Ok, And what are your cutie marks then if you don’t mind me asking? And no visuals. I don’t need to see another mare’s rump as lovely as Apple Blooms was. . .”The white fox blush a bit. “No homo.”

The orange mare giggle. “Ah shucks, it’s ok sugarcube, mines ah jus’ three apples,” Applejack said while eating a bowl of cereal.

“Mines is just the inside of a Big Macintosh,” Big Mac stated while munching on an apple favor muffin his wife bake for him, and the rest of the family. Applejack gave him an amused look as ever since he and Sugar Belle became an item, her brother has been speaking in longer sentences.

“Oh um mine is a cupcake with a cherry on top.” Sugar Belle added. She then notices the now empty cup the white vixen was holding. “Would you like some more?”

“Oh yes please,” she replied with her twin tails wagging. Smiling, Sugar Belle poured the warm liquid into the cup before handing it to Frostbite. Upon taking it, the steam coming from the coffee vanished. Satisfied, that it was now cold, the victim begins to drink it.

“Ah been wondering, how in the hay ya been turning coffee cold that quick?” Applejack asked raising a brow.

“Oh um, it really hard to explain, but I can um absorb the heat of molecules all around me. The ice itself is the byproduct of that heat I absorbed.” Frostbite said gingerly.

“So ya saying you can make ice on a whim?” Apple Bloom asked.

“It’s more of me controlling the water molecules around me.” Frostbite opened the palm of her. As she said a small cube of ice begin to form and float around its creator. The white fox then place the cube into the cup. “But yes I can make ice on a whim.”

“That seems. . .pretty awesome. Ah mean ya don’t need to go to the pool or anything since ya can make ya own ice!” Apple Bloom exclaimed earning a chuckle from the white fox. The possibility was endless

“Yes... but if I really want to...” She places her fingers along the rim of the cup. The warm temperatures in the small dining room suddenly dropped, but not enough to for the ponies inside to shiver. Frost begins to coat the cup she was holding, the liquid inside still frozen. “...I could turn this entire world into a frozen wasteland, making the planet uninhabitable.” The vixen smile much to the ponies shocked and surprised expression with the room slowly warming up. “But in order to do that, it requires a massive amount of energy and concentration which I haven’t achieved yet.” The vixen explained.

After the apples ate and got dressed, both Applejack, Big Mac along with Frostbite and Applebloom headed out towards the orchard. She looked around at the thousands upon thousands of apple trees. Applejack was wearing a red plaid shirt that was button up which still show cleavage, a denim skirt with an apple shape belt with black biker shorts underneath. Applebloom wore overalls with a white t-shirt under the overalls.

“So Miss Frostbite ever buck an apple tree before?” Applejack asked only for the vixen to raise a brow to the question.

“If that a pony’s way of saying have I ever had sex with a tree before, then no I never have ‘buck’ a tree before.” The response only made the yellow mare chuckle and for the orange to blushes and shakes her head.

“No nothin’ like that,” Applejack quickly answered. “We just kick the tree hard enough so that the apple falls off. Big Mac and mahself place all the baskets underneath the trees. All we have ta do is buck em off the branches and carry em ta the barn.” The icy white eyes of the fox looked over and stared at the apple trees, that were ripe and ready for picking. She then looked at the baskets that Applejack had just pointed out to her.

“And you do all of this? By yourselves? No help from anyone, like extended family or friends?” the white fox asked, finding it difficult to believe that three ponies manage to harvest all these apples in one day, especially if most, if not all were ripe.

“Ya bet yer white tails we do!” Applejack said proudly. “The Apples have been doin’ this for the past 100 years when Ponyville was founded. But mah friends come and help sometimes.”

“Hmm... alright then.” The vixen walked over to one of the trees. Moving her foot back, she then swung it forward and kicked the tree. It wiggled a few times, releasing several leaves from its branches, but not a single apple fell down. She did it again and this time along with a couple more leaves, a single apple fell out and landed in the basket. She was about to use her powers to make an ice hammer but remembers what her emperor said and put the idea of using her magic in the back of her mind.

Apple Bloom couldn’t help her curiosity when she saw the look on the vixen’s face and trotted over to her. “Everythin’ alright?” she asked.

“I’m slowly getting the hang of it.” Frostbite responded trying to sound confident. She kicked the tree again, but just like before, she couldn’t get more than one apple.

Applejack giggle watching this. “Alrighty, here’s how it’s done...” she said kicking a tree next to Frostbite. The tree rumble with apples raining down from the tree, leaving it empty. “The trick is to find the center. Once you find it, giving it a good kick and tadaa apples would be falling into the basket like water.”

Frostbite wasn’t sure to respond to how the orange mare was able to make it look so easy. She watched as Apple Bloom took her turn to kick the tree and like her older sister, apples rained down and fell into the basket. Then Big Mac who just punch the bark of the tree. Frostbite was at a loss for words. ‘I’m not a harvester fox !’ she screamed mentally, then in her frustration punched a tree, leaving a hole in it, and the rest of the apples have fallen to the ground.

“Wha-Wha-What?” she stuttered, unable to believe her luck. She then looked back only to see the apple siblings staring in shock. “Um... sorry?”

Apple Bloom backed away and went to hide behind her sister.

“Woah there... I was um...” the fox snickered, then begin to breathe in and out, trying to calm down.

“Something wrong their sugarcube?” Applejack asked in concern. Frostbite either nodded nor shook her head at the question. Instead, she looked at her hand which was shaking.

‘What is milord thinking? He knows I’m a Zenko. All those years of training perfecting my swordsmanship, and magic for what being treated like a field fox. Could this be my lesson? I know this is punishment, but why? Princess Sparkle did call Lord Seer a Tenko a farad.’

“Um Frostbite?” Applejack called out, luckily Frostbite snapped out of it and looked at the concerned faces of the Apple sisters.

“Huh?”

“You feeling alright there? Ya seem out of it,” Applejack asked

“Oh um... a lot on my mind, don’t worry about it,” the vixen responded with a sheepish smile.

“Say, Apple Bloom, why don’t ya go with Sugar Belle to the market and help her sell some apples.” The orange mare smile then winked. Knowing what she had planned the yellow coated mare rush back to the house where she’ll meet her sister in law. Once Apple Bloom was out of earshot, the orange mare, and red stallion just look at the white fox. “Ok spill it, what eating ya up?”

“Nothing really..” Frostbite spoke, not very convincingly.

“Dat’s a load of horse apples. What’s bothering ya?” Applejack tried again. “Come on, we ain’t gonna bite.”

“Can we drop it?”

“Eenope.”

The vixen just sighed in defeat, knowing she won’t win against stubborn.“Fine. I’m not used to labor, well... I’m...”

“Y’all were born an’ raised into nobility and supposed ta act like somepony or some-fox in yer case all high and mighty with yer fancy powers and know how to get down and dirty. And being this samurai or whatever and servant that Seer fellow means you hold the highest rank and standers.” Applejack guesses only for the arctic fox to look at the pony in surprise. “And before ya ask, somepony named Trixie acted like that.”

“Who?”

“She’s a unicorn who’s always boastin’ about herself while performin’ those fancy magic tricks of hers. Ya might spot her hangin’ around Starlight as they’re the best of friends,” Applejack explained. “Anyway, ya can’t act like ya high and mighty cause you got some sweet gig with the royals.”

“I kinda have to standers. For my clan, and for the throne.”

“And them standards will get ya dismiss, discharge and the foxes ya protecting will come to hate ya.” the orange mare spoke. “Ah may not know this Seer fellow, but ah kind of understand why yer here. This whole ‘punishment’ is a way ta teach ya humility, missy.”

Frostbite raised an eyebrow unsure if she liked Applejack’s choice of words. For all she knew, he could be talking down to her. ‘Then again this is something Seer Dono would do.’ she thought to herself and kept in control.

“What Ah’m say is ya can’t let ponies or in ya case foxes judge ya, nor ya can’t living them high standers creatures put you up too.” Applejack smiled at the white fox.

“Believe it or not mah sis is right. She is after all part of the elements,” Big Mac said, picking up two basket full of apples and carrying them back to the barn.

“I’ll um keep that in mind,” Frostbite assured, watching the stallion get back to work.

The arctic fox is an elite warrior that belong to a noble family. She was taught how to defend herself, control her powers, and even hunt for food if it was necessary, despite all that, being in the royal guard for over 200 years she never once work as an honest commerner. She was too embarrassed that others would see her differently but after the little speech from the apple siblings, Frostbite was no longer nervous or embarrassed about doing work akin to a Yako or earth pony. This was her emperor teaching her humility, that having too much pride is dentmentle to oneself and others as well if left unchecked.

With that weight off her shoulders and a new perspective, Frostbite started her work by punching a different tree. This time it shook, letting the juicy apples of different colors fall into the basket.

Hey I can now consider this training...’ she thought to herself while sending a foot to another tree with Applejack and Big Mac doing the same.

A few minutes later, Frostbite had gotten to her 50th tree. As with the others, the moment her paw made contact, it started to shake, but apples weren’t the only thing that came down. The vixen got quite a surprise when a cyan mare with a rainbow mane and tail came crashing out of the tree as well.

“Oh um... I’m so sorry,” the white fox said, bowing her head in shame. “I didn’t know you were up there, and...”

“RAINBOW, HOW MANY TIMES HAVE AH TOLD YA NOT TA SLEEP ON MAH TREES?!” screamed the southern mare as she ran toward the two, looking quite livid.

“Well, it not my fault the trees are comfortable. And you should know that I always take my naps after a morning workout?” Rainbow shot back. “Anyway, why is she.” Rainbow pointed to the arctic fox. ‘Here? Should she be with King Seer or something?”

“Emperor,” Frostbite corrected her. “And he has three other guards with him not to mention he knows how to take care of himself. And the reason as to why I’m here is because of um. . .well, I um...”

“She try to kill Twi over a silly assumption.” Applejack chime in which added fuel to the flames that were Dashe's temper. Rainbow then or at least tried to punch the samurai in the muzzle only to miss her target mere inches as the arctic fox just moves to the side.

“Um?” Frostbite stare at the assailant.

“You bitch!” Screamed Rainbow as he charges the vixen. She didn’t have much time to avoid the attack to the Rainbow speed and was tackled to the ground. Using her quick thinking she rolls backward, and held the Rainbow’s waist. When the two came to a stop thanks to a tree. She then created a thick layer of ice to bonding Rainbow Dash to the ground.

“Okay... what the hell is wrong with you pony?!” Frostbite screamed, getting up and dusting up any dirt that got on her white fur.

“I should be saying that to you!” the cyan pegasus shouted back. The two continued to glare at one another, as a rivalry has obviously sparked. “Trying to kill one of my friends!”

“She dare accused Lord Seer being a fraud, and this is my punishment for trying to kill her!” Frostbite shot back.

“I dare you to try and say that again you damn mutt!” Rainbow barked only for a very sharp blade made from ice flew past her face, cutting her cheek. Falling on her back, Rainbow didn’t get the chance to grab hold of her bleeding cheek, as she felt her body grow colder along with the air around them. She looked up only to see the icy white eyes of the kitsune staring down at her with both rage and an intent to kill.

“Compare me to an inbred dog again, and I’ll make sure to send your body parts to your loved one,” Frostbite threatened in a very cold tone.

“ALRIGHT, THAT’S ENOUGH OUTTA BOTH OF Y’ALL!” Before the situation got even worse, Applejack came over and shoved the two apart. Though, it didn’t stop them from glaring at one another with Frostbite gowling. “Listen Frostbite, ya have to calm down, you’re destroyin’ mah family crops,” the apple farmer said, as she began to shiver from the cold. She took a couple of breaths, trying to relax from her little outburst. “And as fer you, Rainbow, Ah think it would be best fer ya ta go.”

“WHAT?! BUT SHE...! AREN’T WE FRIENDS!? WHY ARE YOU TAKING THIS BITCH’S SIDE?!” Rainbow demanded. After hearing the word ‘bitch’, Frostbite was about to release a hail storm of ice shards on the fool but remembered what her emperor said.

“Because she did nothin’ wrong and ya jus’ up and attack her,” Applejack explained, doing all she could to prevent another outburst.

“Yeah, and she tried to attack Twilight!” Rainbow shot back, as she began to struggle against the ice that was holding her in place.

“That’s why she’s here at the barn. It’s her punishment fer nearly puttin’ her fellow foxes in a bad light.” Applejack looked over at the vixen, who now had her back turned, giving the mares a good look of her twin tail swaying from side to side. Hearing Applejack cough a couple of times, Frostbite grumbled and extended her left hand. As she does this, the ice that was pining Rainbow Dash down began to crumble.

Breathing in and out, Frostbite walked to the other side of the orchard to get away from the cyan pegasus before she did something else she’d regret.

“Hey wait!” Rainbow cried out and tried to chase after the vixen, but was stopped by a hand being placed on her shoulder.

“Let her be fer a while,” Applejack sighed and pinched the bridge between her nose. “And here ah thought there wouldn’t be much trouble this early in the morning.”

Gale blinked when she saw in front of her, was Frostbite in a black tank top with matching shorts that reached her thick thighs, kicking and punishing some random apple trees. Apples of different colors fell down into a basket below the tree.

“Um... okay, not going to ask but... looking good. You really should try and seduce the boys when you get back to the castle.” Both the dragoness snicker much to the shock of Applejack, and the pink tant on the white kitsune’s cheek.

“Woah there, when an’ where in tarnation did y’all came from?” Applejack asked, looking at the dragoness ninja who suddenly appears beside her.

“I’m a ninja, it’s kind of my thing to appear at random times. Like that pink friend of yours, uh... Pinkie Pie wasn’t it? Anyway, I ran here from this forest back there.” Gale pointed to the forest behind her with her right thumb. “Guessing she didn’t eat anything huh?” Gale asked holding up a bento box.

“Well um...” Frostbite tap her two index claws together. “I haven’t actually...”

“Dang girl won’t eat any stuff meh sister-in-law makes. She just drink coffee which she made colder than the water in winter. That and she kept saying it punishment or something.” The Apple Farmer pointed only for the white fox to smile.

“You do know it rude not to eat the food offered to you, you of all creatures know this being over 200 years old.” commented the dragoness. “And I’m pretty sure Seer Dono didn’t say anything about you not eating as punishment”

“Wait ya over what now?” Applejack asked with a raised eyebrow hearing the fox’s age.

“And it’s rude to talk about a vixen’s age!” Frostbite shot back. “And yes I’m 221 years old.”

“How in hay? Ya as young as me ten years ago, yet you're older than Granny Smith Celestia rest her soul.” Applejack commented remembering her disease grandmother The farmer despite her age look pretty young, around her late to early 20s. “Ya must be lying.”

“Nah, kitsunes have a very long lifespan.” Gale added.

“And our tails can indicate a Kitsune age, we grow one every hundred years. However, there have been cases where a kitsune had gain a tail as young as three months. It kind of like that cutie mark thing you and your sister been talking about.” Frostbite shrug.

“A cutie what now?” Gale asked, tilting her head.

“I’ll tell you later,” Frostbite answered.

“Anyway Seer Dono though you might be hungry so here.” Gale pass the bento over to the Arctic Fox, she then turned over to the Apple Farmer and said. “Oh and if you are squeamish I suggest looking away.” Gale said hoping she wouldn’t puke as butterscotch mare did.

“No promises their partner, but what’s in that box there?” the farmer asked in an understanding tone.

“Rabbit.” The white vixen said sniffing at the bento. “Roasted at that.” Much to Applejack horror, and disgusted.

“If Shy catches ya eating em critters, there will be consequences,” Applejack warned.

“Oh her, yea she kind of used ‘the stare’ on us. Beside Yajirushi it didn’t work.” The dragoness rub behind her short white hair.

“Wait Fluttershy is with ya, as we speak, and ya all resisted the stared?” Asked now a shock Applejack.

“To be fair we did seen, face, beaten, and killed much worst. Yajirushi on the other hand, not so much to be intimidated by one animal loving shy pony.” The dragoness shrug. “And if anything Lord Seer is most likely showing Fluttershy the possible future and the consequences if she dared attack us. So there’s that.”

Before Applejack question it, she smelled the sickening aroma of roasted meat invaded her nose. She quickly covered it, trying not to gag. Frostbite was about to say something, but Gale shook her head. “Well then I’ll be over there and.” The vixen ears picked up hearing a bark and something running toward her. Her face turned to the source then her face turns into pure horror as what was running towards her. A brown and white furred dog was running towards her, barking.

Growling the vixen quickly ran up an apple tree with her bento. She look down growling at the dog while she ran around the tree. She looked down only to see Gale on the floor, laughing. “THIS ISN’T FUNNY GALE!” Frostbite screamed.

“Winona!” Applejack yelled, calling her dog over to her. “Now how many times I told ya not to go scaring off guess.” She turn up to the fox up on the tree. “Ah mighty sorry about that, Winona here is usually friendly.”

“JUST KEEP THAT FEE WRITTEN MUTT AWAY FROM ME!” Frostbite only climb the tree a bit higher.

“HEY DON’T YA BE CALL MEH DOG FEE WRITTEN, SHE DOESN'T EVEN HAVE A FEEs!”Applejack shot back only to be stopped by a gray scaled claw with a white fur on the whist.

“S-Sorry but... k-kitsune have... an n-natural fear and... hatred towards d-dogs...” Gale said, trying to hold back her laughter. “Sweet Bahamut this is funny.”

“Well, that explains why she clung to ma ceilin’ shakin’ like a leaf on a windy day. Not to mention when she went old cold queen when Rainbow called her a ‘mutt’. Hold on a tick, aren’t foxes dogs?” A ray of cold light was fire from the tree. It tried to hit Applejack and Winona but missed only as a grey blur whisk them a couple of feet away, leaving behind a frozen foot wall of ice.

“Not to mention calling or comparing a kitsune to a dog is one of the, if not, the highest insult you can say in front or near then. And calling a vixen a ‘bitch’ is a guaranteed death sentence.” The dragoness explain then look up at the tree. “AND AS FOR YOU, DIDN’T LORD SEER SPECIFICALLY SAY YOU ARE FORBIDDEN TO YOUR YOUR MAGIC?!”

“Oh snap!” Frostbite said, realizing just how much trouble she was in.

Gale then looked down only to see her arm covered in ice. “Oh come on?” The dragoness said pouting. “Anyway, I going back. See ya.” With that the dragoness disappeared, leaving behind a trail of white, that soon faded.

“So he’s in Equestria huh?” a feminine voice called out.

“Yes mistress,” replied a light blue female bushwoolie, bowing before her mistress. She wore a mini maid outfit. Standing in front of her was a light brownish Abyssinian cat. Her sunrise orange hair reached past her shoulders and down her back. She wore a dark red robe with lavender fuffed around the neck, sleeves, and at the end of the robe. She was sitting on the sofa reading a book titled ‘Tales from the hidden world.’ Strangely enough, the book had no author.

Next to the bushwoolie, was a gray single tail fox who wore a black kimono with a white slash. There were several scars that covered his body, but the most notable one was on his right eye. The gray fox also carry a katana that rested on his side, sheath and unused.

The slitted green cat eyes and the bright blue eyes of the gray fox looked down at the maid.

“Seems like him, to go off on random adventures to leave his duties behind, but why Equestia of all places, Katrina?” he asked.

“Hmm...” the cat known as Katrina, placed her paw under her chin, then got up and walked over to the stack of books that reasted along the thick stone gray walls and reach for a black book with golden strips on the spine. The title read References of Hexes and Curses. Flipping the pages, she looked at the text written in the book. “Knowing him, he always keeps two of the six stones with him. And with his clairvoyance and insight in the arcane arts. I doubt we can just walk in and take them. Not to mention his brother Fenrir and his sister Destiny have two stones with them as well.”

“Added his guards would be around him at all times, it won’t be easy,” the gray fox commented.

“What will you do mistress?” asked the bushwoolie. “With all due respect, Seer alone is powerful enough to best you in a magic duel without even chanting a spell. And despite being the weakest out of the three in terms of physical strength, he knows how to fight hand to hand.”

“It won’t be easy, but I have an idea, Takao you will accompany me to Equestria,” Katrina said, only for the fox to raise a brow.

“In case you haven’t noticed, I can’t draw my blade or use any weapons thanks to his curse,” Takao added.

“I know that...” the feline said squinting her eyes at him. “And whose fault was it to challenge an emperor who had lived for over a thousand years, knows basely everything, and thought that he hasn’t picked up or learned anything non-magical related?” she asked placing her hand on her hips. “Like hand-to-hand combat or swordplay?”

“Don’t remind me...” Takao growled, only to have his nose flicked.

“No growling,” Katrina said as she reaches into her sleeves, and pulled out a stone. Handing it to Takao, the fox looked down at it and saw it was gray like his fur, but it had also had a rune that glowed in a purplish light. “This is a gate stone. I set it to bring you back here when you pour a bit of mana into it.”

“I still don’t know why you insist on using me instead of that maid over there,” Takao said and this time instead of being flicked, Katrina slapped him hard across the face.

“That maid is a very special friend of mine!” the cat sorceress growled. The fox held his cheek returning the feline’s glare since her claws left three nasty scratches across his face. Without changing his expression, he licked the fresh blood that flowed from the wound. “And don’t forget that I was the one who saved your worthless hide from being forest food.”

“I apologize if I upset you,” Takao grumbled, deciding he didn’t need any more scars today.

“Good, now as I was saying, you will act as bait and lore him and his guard out. I will go and put Libidinem Concitans on the ponies he’s staying with,” Katrina spoke of her plain.

The fox nodded in agreement before a thought came to him. “But won’t Seer know we’re coming, and won’t he have plans for our arrival?” Takao stated, only for Katrina to giggle.

“You really don’t know him. . .And you’re supposed to be in the black ops unit back in your home country.” The Bushwoolie spoke.

“That was a long time ago.” The gray fox reply gowling. “I may not be able to use weapons but I’m still able to use magic.”

“And your magic won’t be enough,” Katrina sighed. “Look, we’ll go into Equestria and you’ll lure Seer and his guards out. I’ll go in, cast the curse magic on the ponies, then leave. We wait for a couple of hours, he’ll be too exhausted to fight by then. That’s when I’ll grab the stones so we can head back here.”

“Alright, let's get this over with.”

“I’ll return little one,” Katrina assured, using a much more softer and affectionate tone that was reserved for her loyal bushwoolie maid. Grabbing Takao’s hand, the two disappeared in a flash of green light.

“Do be careful mistress,” she called out.

Chapter Five: Remnants of the Past

Chapter Five

Remnants of the Past

“Are you sure we’re at the right place?” Takao asked while looking around at the ruins of an old castle forgotten in time. The stones, as well as the walls were covered in dust. The roof with some parts had cave-in over the years, allowing the rays of the sun pass into the ruined room. Because of the cave-ins some of the castle pathways were blocked and the only way to access them was to find alternate routes. In the middle of what is the throne room lay two seats. The left was a yellow and golden chair with the symbol of the sun, and the other was a midnight blue with a crescent moon on the top. “I highly doubt Seer and his guard would stay in a castle like this.”

“This is the castle of the royal pony sisters,” Katrina explained. “And to answer your question, yes we’re in Equestria.” The feline then places her hand on the cold cobblestone ground. “Falsum stratum vitae,” she chanted and a magic circle appeared around her. The lines glowed a bright greenish color before disappearing completely. “There... now neither he nor anyone else can sense my presence.” The sorceress then closed her eyes, her hand shifting counterclockwise. She could feel the life roaming the forest, from the smallest insects like spiders to the largest which at this time were manticores. Katrina also felt the presence of a zebra, which confused her greatly, but neither of less she found what she was looking for.

Three foxes, one pony, and two dragons? “Seer and three of his guards are in the forest...along with one of the locals and another dragon? Just south from where we’re at.”

“Another dragon huh?”

“Yes, now remember, don’t try to fight them head-on. Just lure them into the forest and leave. Don’t gloat them, don’t even try to use any spells. Just avoid their attacks,” Katrina clarified hoping the fox would remember not to do anything rash, and get himself killed.

“Yes, milady.” Takao bowed and then leaped out from one of the many holes. The sorceress sighed and waited for her subordinate to return.

Seer stopped on the dirt road and looked back into the forest that he had just left along with his guard, Fluttershy, and a now taller Spike. The purple drake was debating with Yajirushi and Gale whether or not if The Power Ponies From Night Horse Comics could beat the Star Squad a neighponese manga with a group of five ponies with special powers fighting the forces of evil all while maintaining a normal school life.

“Is there something wrong, milord?” asked Manto, who stopped and looked at his emperor.

“I felt something just now, however its presence seemly disappeared suddenly.” The nine tail fox respond. Seer then looks over at the four ahead of him and said. “And The Power Ponies would win against the Star Squad since the series is new and we don’t fully know all of the groups' abilities and power. Yet.”

“What!” Both Yajirushi and Gale had there mouth agape with the purple-scaled dragon fist bumping the sky. “You can’t be...wait since when were you into manga? Or Comics for that matter.” This question made the fox rolled his eyes.

“About when the first issue of Kami no ryū no negai was released, then the first issue of Weird tales issue 1.” The Emperor chuckled, only for the two guards to stop and comprehend on what he told them.

“B-B-But that was like 50 years ago,” Gale stated, only for Seer to smirk.

“Even an emperor needs a good story to read,” he retorted.

“That’s something Twilight would say,” Spike chuckled.

“Indeed.” As if deciding it was time to change the subject, Seer took out his bow and aimed at the forest. Pulling the string back, an arrow of red energy is formed and before the others could react, Seer let go of the string. The crimson energy arrow collided with a barrier, which shattered upon impact, causing the user to fly a few feet from where he was and land on his side. Deeming the stranger a threat, Manto and Gale slide in front of their emperor, kunai knives in hand, ready to take on the sudden intruder. Yajirushi pulls out his bow and stood in front of both Fluttershy and Spike, who looked at each other, surprised.

“It has been a while milord,” the stranger said, slowly getting up. It was none other than Takao. “And here I thought I might get the jump on you.”

“And how did that work out for you?” Yajirushi asked with venom in his voice.

“Oh, you must be a newbie? Let me guess... Bow and arrow, captain level mana, and young?” the grey fox chuckled. Yajirushi made the move to shoot at him, but Seer held up his hand.

“What do you want Takao? I doubt you came all this way to fight me again,” he demanded, lowering his own bow.

“Oh, you know... I was in the neighborhood and I felt a very interesting presence.” Takao then pointed to Spike. “I know this is a land filled to the brim with ponies, but why is there a dragon beside Gale here?”

“I live here!” Spike loudly spoke up. “I was hatched and raised by ponies. Who are you anyway?”

“A traitor, that’s who he is. Former 2nd lieutenant of the Imperial Guards 2nd division black ops unit, Phantom Blade swordsman, Takao Kit,” Yajirushi answered. Even though Seer told him to hold his fire, Yajirushi was still pulling on his bow’s string, to where an arrow made out of greenish energy formed.

“I see I’m famous amongst the fellow guards. But I noticed you’re one guard short. Tell me, where is that sexy vixen of yours. Frostbite?” Takao asked, snickering once more. “I thought she of all vixens would be by your side, Seer.”

“More like you’re infamous, and Frostbite’s whereabouts are none of your concern.” Manto and Gale clenched the handle of their knives closer, ready to attack if needed.

“Oh, the ninjas think there can take me on, huh?” Takao asked, arrogantly.

“Yajirushi, take Spike and Fluttershy back to Ponyville,” Seer ordered, to which the silver fox nodded.

“If you two would come with me,” he said, motioning for Spike and Fluttershy to follow. Both of them look back only for the silver fox to smile. “They’ll be fine, this isn’t the first time this has happened,” he assured. Without another word, the three begin to run back to the quiet town.

With Spike and Fluttershy out of danger and earshot, Seer resumed his conversation with the former guard. “I’ll repeat my question, why have you come here? Is it to ruin this diplomacy mission? Or perhaps to assassinate one of the princesses of this land and blame it on Vulpus Terra?”

“Oh please milord, I wouldn’t do anything as to tarnish the name my homeland by slaughtering the princesses. Besides, you would have seen it coming and do anything in your power to prevent the outcome.” The grey fox took a step back. “I’ll have you know, I’m here on a different reason.”

“I’ve had enough of this bullshit!” A dragon of her word, Gale opens her maw, and a bolt of lightning came out, moving with the intent to kill the grey fox. Before the bolt could hit, Takoa moved out of the way and ran into the forest.

“After him!” Seer commanded and both he and his ninja took chase for their former accomplice.

The feline sorceress, Katrina was standing in the throne room waiting for her time to move, granted she could just teleport near the edge of the forest to save time. Sadly, she didn’t know the layout of the forest let alone the town. The spell she cast would help in concealing her presence. There was no need for Seer and his guard to sniff her out immediately after she teleported here.

All she had to do now was wait for the right moment to strike.

Back in the forest, Takoa was avoiding everything, from blasts of lightning to shuriken that came out of his shadow. “Woah! It’s like you’re trying to kill me,” the grey fox grins, avoiding another shuriken, however, this one was spinning at such a rapid speed and that it was creating winds so strong that it slices the upper part of a tree, causing it to fall with a loud turd “Woah! Can’t we talk?”

“Not after what you have done,” Gale snarled before doing some hand signs. Once she was done, blue lightning discharged from her hand and reaching her forward, the lightning was reshaped into a small ball of electricity and shot towards Takao. “Denki sāji!” Upon saying that, the ball discharged, and anything within a 30-foot area was electrocuted. Luckily for Takao, he managed to find enough time to leap beyond the reach of lightning and smirked once again.

“Have it your way.” Landing on the ground, Takoa places his hands together, making it look like he was holding a ball of his own. Once the energy took the form of a sphere, air gathered around the ball, increasing in speed the longer Takao held onto it. “Kaze no uzu!” He unleashes the whirlwind ball, which begins to expand and unleashing the pressure. Fortunately, Gale had anticipated his spell and canceled it out by performing the same thing.

Meanwhile, Manto rose from Takao’s cast shadow and stuck his knife against his fur, but he said grey fox faded like a ghost.

“Ha! You’re supposed to be Seer’s royal guard and you can’t tell from real to fake!” Before Takao could make another witty remark, let alone move, an arrow made out of red energy hit him. However, instead of blowing him up, the energy wrapped around, bonding him, resulting in him falling from a tree and landing on the ground with a soft thud.

Seer walked from the bushes that he was hiding the whole time. “Now you’re going to answer me.”

“D-Damn it...”

Katrina moved throughout the crowd of ponies. Luckily, she used a spell that makes her invisible to others, and thanks to her early spell, neither Seer not any of his guard were able to sense her, especially since they were busy dealing with Takao. Since it was 10:15 in the morning, the citizens of Ponyville were out and about during their daily routines, shopping, having present conversations. Typical since Ponyville was said to be the friendliest place in Equestria.

Being invisible had its disadvantages, which was proven when a couple of ponies had stepped on Katrina’s tail without realizing it. This caused her to scream out in pain and ran towards the nearest building. Upon hearing the scream, ponies looked around, wondering who caused it.

‘Damn it, it took hours to groom my fur.’ Katrina thought, scoffing at the work she’d have to do to get her tail back to the perfect condition. Despite the harsh training she went through as a kitten, all those drills, excuses, magical and combat training, she always kept her fur in perfect condition in case she had to attend a meeting or party. Putting the grooming on hold for now, the sorceress begins to scan the area. ‘This place... seems friendly... and nice... wait is that pink pony looking at me?’ Katrina’s green eyes met the light blue ones of the pink mare staring at her from the distant. The mare’s mane and tail begin to twitch and her tongue slips out of her lips, before putting back in.

“Um... Auntie Pinkie, what are you looking at?” asked a young pegasus colt. No older than the age of 10, his coat was cream color with a brown mane and tail. He wore a tan short sleeve shirt and green shorts. Next to him was his unicorn twin sister, whose coat was a light orange color. Her split fluffy pumpkin mane had a blue ribbon at the end of the mane and tail. Pinkie who was wearing a white t-shirt with a cupcake on it and blue shorts, looked back at the twins. It was her day off and she made a promise to take the twins out to see their friends at the park.

“Something is out there,” she said, pointing to some random building. However, when Pound and Pumpkin looked to where she was pointing, the feline sorceress was nowhere to be found.

“No one is out there, Auntie Pinkie,” Pound argued, while his twin sister shook her head.

“It’s Pinkie being Pinkie, brother,” Pumpkin responded.

“I’ll think about the party later, come on you two,” Pinkie Pie said cheerfully.

Sighing in relief that she hadn’t been exposed, Katrina hopped from one building to another until she spotted one of Seer’s guards walking alongside a butterscotch pegasus, and a purple and green dragon. ‘I thought I told him to keep them busy!’ she mentally screamed but snapped her fingers as she got the idea to simply follow him.

“I do hope Seer and the others are okay,” Fluttershy said while glancing back at the direction they came from.

“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about them. Besides, having trained guards with years of experience, we also have someone who can not only see the upcoming future but controls luck as well,” Yajirushi stated as he looked around, thinking that Takao didn’t come alone.

“This other fox... what did he do?” Spike asked.

“To make a long story short, Takao, along with several others foxes traded secrets about us having powerful artifacts to some shady individuals,” the silver fox explained. “Sady, we caught wind of their plans in starting a coup and arrested them along with the creatures they made their deal with. However, before we could sentence him, the bastard challenged Seer to the throne.”

“Wait, if he’s arrested, then what right does he have to demand a fight?” questioned Spike, seeing a flaw in this story.

“Well my scaly friend, in my land, foxes and only foxes have the right to challenge the current leader in Kōtei kettō. It’s kind of a rule Lady Inari placed when foxes became greedy for her spot on the throne. And unless the party is guilty, the current leaders have to accept the challenge.”

“And judging from the result this fox lose.” Spike guess only for the silver fox to nods.

“Oh, he got his ass handed too like no other!” Yajirushi chuckled, remembering the fight, and how Seer dispatched the bastard with nothing but his sword. “The rules were simple, no magic. Back then, Takao made the mistake of forgetting that Seer mastered several fighting styles in his youth, including kenjutsu.”

“The Art of the Sword?” Fluttershy asked.

“Right again. Seer-dono put that scar on him on his eye as a reminder. Anyway, after he beat the hell out of that traitor, he put a curse on him and banished him from the island.” As he explains this, the three arrived in front of the castle. Yajirushi then opens the door and they all walked inside. Unbeknownst to the three, however, they were being followed.

‘Of course he would stay there at a castle? And here I thought only whitetails would make a castle from a tree... could this be the Tree of Harmony doing?’ Katrina thought and then moved towards the castle being as quiet as possible. When she was near, she placed her paw on the trunk. ‘Here goes nothing.’ Closing her eyes, she began to chant. “Qui habitare velle tua intumuerunt. Ad nimium calorem transeat ne nova et anima, et quod usque vectigal campanis.” As she chants, a small rune appeared on the castle trunk. “Qui ingredimini per calorem qui non pulsant. Tepidum qui sentitur tactu libidine sua peribunt. Usque ad ruinam lunae et solis, quod moritur, cum execratione maledicta congessit.” The rune then disappears. ‘Alright, now to get out of here and wait.’ And in a flash of green, the sorceress disappeared.

“Okay now answer me, who sent you?!” Gale demanded, pressing her knife hand against Takao’s neck. Seer was leaning against a tree, his eyes fixed on the trapped fox while Manto was on a tree, watching to see if any more of Takao’s ‘friends’ would show up.

“Oh, sweetie...” the grey fox started, only for Gale to growl and push her knife closer to the skin, slowly drawing blood. “You know I can’t tell you...” Reaching into his pocket, he pulled out the gate stone, and pour a bit of his mana into it. Seer knowing what he was about to do, grabbed Gale and threw her off of the fox before he disappeared.

“Well, we now know he isn’t working alone,” Seer commented, standing straight from the tree. “Let’s go back and inform Frostbite when she comes.”

“You know who that bastard is working for?” Manto asked as he landed back on the ground.

“I do, and we need to inform the princesses about the possibility of someone attempting to steal my stones or claim one of their lives.” Seer closed his eyes. “Damn it Kat...” he spoke in a whisper, regretting the things that will happen.

“SPIKE, WHAT HAPPENED TO YOU!? YOU’RE SO BIG?” Starlight yelled the moment she saw how tall the drake was now.

“Oh, um...”

“We kind of made him eat meat,” Yajirushi answered for him, looking back on the outside before he wasn’t followed. The news on Spike eating meat wasn’t new since Twilight had told both Starlight and Sunburst that they went out early, and wouldn’t be back for a while. “Stunted growth and all.” Letting out a soft sigh in relief from the feeling that there was no other presence besides the residents, Yajirushi slumps to the door. “Anyway, is Princess Sparkle still here?”

“Yes... um... we were trying to figure out that clairvoyant spell. You know, the emperor, seem to have mastered.”

“Oh if anything, you’re not going to figure it out. Anyway, Seer-dono would like to speak to her when he comes back... alone.” The silver fox moved away from the door, then looked around.

“Why’s that?” Starlight asked with a raised eyebrow.

“Believe me, it’s best for you not to know...” Yajirushi replied, quietly. “And before you say anything, this is highly classified.” Anything to further this little discussion was cut off when the door opened, revealing Seer and his clan.

“I need to speak with Princess Sparkle,” the nine-tailed fox demanded and made his way into the castle library where Twilight was. Within the library, there were books on the floor, couch, and even a couple on the ceiling. Seer wasn’t even going to ask how that happened. Looking around, he saw that the princess of friendship wasn’t alone, as the sun orange unicorn was right beside, reading a few books about transfiguration magic, and from the looks of it, they were here since they left.

Picking up the book he looks at the title; Seeing the Future for Dummies 101. “You know, perfecting clairvoyant isn’t written in any text,” Seer said using his magic to float the book back on the shelf. “And again, it’s best to figure it out on your own.”

Twilight looked up, only to see the red nine-tailed fox smirking. “O-Oh!” she exclaimed, sheepishly hiding one of the books behind her back. A small blush form on her cheek. “W-What can I do for you then? Maybe help in testing out some spells?”

“As lovely as that sounds, I need to speak with you.” Seer then stared at Sunburst. “Alone.”

“S-Sunburst, could we... um, have a moment... please?” Twilight asked with a huge smile.

“Oh um of course, j-just um... yell if you need anything...” Having said that, the stallion picked up his book and walked out of the library like he was asked to. Once the door closed, Seer snapped his fingers, making a soundproof barrier.

“Now, before I tell you what happened...” He looked over at the door, “...I just need to say just because you’re using an invisible spell doesn't mean I can’t sense your presence... Ms. Glimmer.” He then looked over to where the mare was standing by the door after reluctantly dispelling her own magic. Now exposed, the light purplish unicorn, smiled sheepishly, much to Twilight and Seer’s disapproval.

“Umm...” was all she could say before the fox rolled his eyes.

“Starlight!” Twilight said in an ‘I’m disappointed in you’ tone.

“It’s fine,” Seer sighed, waving his hand. Hoping to keep this a secret, and the reason why he was even here in the first place. “Your friends would have eventually found out one way or another. Starlight, do you know the reason why I’m here?”

The light purple unicorn placed her fingers under her chin, thinking. “Is it because you need a break from ruling a country?”

“Yes, but there are a few more reasons.” Seer walked over to a couch and sat there. The two mares follow suit sitting on the sofa. “Three actually. The first is a legend. Tell me, are you familiar with the legend of the dark days? Or when the sun and moon were eaten?”

“That’s an old pony-tale,” Starlight recollected the old story. “It was a story that parents tell their foals. Apparently, even though nopony knows where they came from, there are two wolves that chased the sun and moon. If they stop moving, then the wolves will eat them and rob us of light. Because of this, Celestia and Luna would move them so the wolves could never catch the celestial bodies. And this prophet named... well, Prophet said that the two wolves would arrive in Equestria and eat Celestia and Luna, thus bringing the end of ponykind.” When Starlight finished telling the story as best as she could, Seer just nodded.

“Well, that’s one of the reasons Seer is here,” Twilight began to explain. “When the sun and moon disappear, the two wolves will appear in Equestria. I do not know where, but when they do, they ponies will either chase them out or kill them. Because of their death, their father who doesn’t like the ponykind to begin with, will be enraged and will order the eradication of the equine race,” Twilight said grimly, her eyes forced on the fox. “Seer is here to warn us so we can prevent that from happening.”

“As scary as that sounds, we have the tree of harmony, along with several very powerful ponies. I mean we have magic, what do the one wolf have, fangs and claws?” Starlight stiff a giggle, only for her to have the blue eyes of the fox stare her down. In addition to his tails swaying from side to side, Seer’s eyes told how serious he was. Truth be told, it took all his willpower and mental training not to slap the unicorn for her arrogance.

“The last creature to say that ended up with a horn in the wrong hole. That creature... was a alicorn.” The emperor began, his voice as cold as the top of a mountain in the middle of winter. “The reason those two were in the cosmos is because of the alicorn race.”

“The alicorn race was wiped out by this single wolf who grieved over the loss of his wife and sons. All the cubs wanted were to befriend them...” Twilight added. “At least that what Seer told me and Princess Celestia.”

“The other reason as to why I’m here is because a few of my citizens went missing a couple of months ago. We later found them being used as slaves for those some shady treasure seekers looking for the entrance to the land of the dead. They were the same treasure seekers who defiled some of the sacred temples in my land...” Seer said placing his hands under his chin.

Starlight just stared at the fox. “Were they ponies?”

“Yes,” the nine-tailed fox confirmed. “Several to be exact. One goes by the name of Doctor Caballeron.”

“Caballeron, as in one of Daring Do arch-enemies?” Starlight asked, for the fox to nod. “You mean he’s real?”

“Is he that infamous among those lands?” Seer asked tilting his head.

“Oh um sorry... but there’s this series ongoing series about her adventures. I’m not a fan personally but...”

“Twilight and Rainbow Dash are?” Seer spoke to which there were a light pink tan coming from the princess’ cheeks. “Twilight told me, and currently I had him, along with this mare that goes by Daring Do in prison for a number of charges, as well. Daring Do was set free and all her charges were dropped.”

“So Daring Do is real too?” Starlight asked only for the two royals to nod. “And here I thought she was just some made up mare. If you don’t mind me asking, what were they after?” Starlight asked, only for the fox to remove the two gems attach on his choker.

“These,” he said with the two gems glowing and Starlight gasped at the sight.

“Are those...?”

“The gem of infinity,” Twilight answered.

“But I thought those were just something that would appear in the comic books, the one Spike reads.”

“Apparently someone in Seer’s guard was trading very sensitive secrets to them.” Twilight begin. “Those gems are extremely powerful and if one of them were in the wrong hands, it would be a catastrophe.”

“Okay, but we have the tree of Harmony's magic in case something were to happen, right?”

“In short, yes. The magic of harmony can undo two of the six gems magical powers,” Seer stated.

“So why have them with you?” Starlight questioned, only for the fox to chuckle.

“Luna asked the same thing when I showed them to her. And the reason is because by the off chance that somepony would discover the whereabouts of said gems, let’s say the Amber of Souls? And have the means to enter into the land of the dead and retrieve it, or if the princess of the moon wanders into the temple where the ruby of dreams lay,” the fox explained. “And before you say it, no because I have seen a bunch of timelines where creatures discover the gems and want them for themselves.” After stopping the thoughts of the light purple unicorn, Seer then explained how Takao and others’ planned a coup upon the throne, sharing sensitive information, creature trafficking for profit, as well as several other offenses. He and the court guard caught wind of this and arrested them after finding proof of the betrayal.

“So someone is after those gems?” Starlight asked, understandingly.

“Pretty much.”

“And he’s not working alone?” Twilight asked to which the fox nodded. “Any idea who is this Takao partner is?”

“Hmm... I have a hunch that it’s my former student, Katrina...” Seer placed the two gems back on his choker.

“Former student?” the two mares asked in unison.

“Yes, a powerful Abyssinian sorceress who I trained when she was a kitten.” Seer sighed, having clear memories of the ordeal. “But again, it was just a hunch and I pray that I’m wrong. But whoever Takao’s partner may have placed a spell on this castle. What spell it is, I don’t know. While we figure out what spell was placed, I suggest not touching anyone outside town.” The fox then snaps his fingers, undoing the barrier. Seer has a feeling things are going to get hot in the next couple of days.

“I told you to keep the guard busy!” Katrina screamed at Takao, only for the grey fox to nonchalantly rub his ears.

“Hey you of all creatures knows that foxes are clover.,” Takao replied. The sorceress just sighed.

“Whatever. I found out where Seer and his guards are staying. And since I already set the curse, all we need to do is wait.” Katrina then walked over to her desk and glazed at her crystal ball.

Chapter Six:

Chapter 6

The sun was at its peak and by this point, just about every citizen of the small town of Ponyville was out and about. Spike, along with the silver tailed archer who changed from his tactical clothing to a more modern one. Long blue jeans, and a shirt, written in kanji in bold gold letters.

“You sure you want to come along? I mean Seer dono did tell you what you needed to know.” The silver fox asked looking at the winged drake who was as tall as him.

“I’m sure. I mean I don’t fully believe him but I have to try.” Spike said to the silver fox. “Also I need new clothes.”

“Alright. . .Alright. . .I’ll be here for when you cry.” The fox snicker only to earn a glare from the dragon.

“You said Seer can predictions are wrong, yes?”

Yajirushi asked with a raised brow. “What are you getting at Spike?”

“What if he’s wrong? What if his predictions are wrong. And Rarity does return my feelings.” The drake asked ensuring his mind that the write mare would return his feelings.

“Then he’s wrong. Its nothing new to him.” The silver fox shrugged once more. Unlike the others who would ridicule the purple drake for doubting the nine-tailed fox abilities, Yajirushi, however, wasn’t like them. He knew that creatures would have doubts about Seer’s predictions. He himself doubt him at times, however, his predictions indeed came true. It was only a matter of time. “Look if you doubt him, then that’s fine. All other creatures he had met doubted him at first. All I can tell you is the choice is yours whether you believe him or not.”

“Ok one more thing. . .why are you coming along?” The purple and green dragon asked, only for Yajirushi to snicker.

“I kind of reveal Seer Dono clairvoyant to the princesses when he said not too. I’m actually lucky he didn’t set the worst punishment for me.”

“And what is the worst thing he could do?” Aske the dragon, only for the silver fox snickering at the question.

“Oh trust me you really don’t want to know.” The silver fox stated as he continued to walk down the path to the Boutique.

“Oh, my Spike what happen to you? You're not hoarding again, are you? And what are you wearing?” Asked the white mare wearing a matching blouse and black pants. She also had on her work glasses.

“No no, we just. . .how can I explain it.” Spike said rubbing the back of his head.

“I feel like if I do it, you might faint but here we go. . .” Yajirushi explained that the visitors feed Spike meat due to his condition. The white mare took the news fairly.

“How could you make such a sweet and innocent little dragon such do something so barbaric like eating other creatures.” Rarity screamed. The once cute and adorable little dragon that follows her endlessly doing various chores. Worship the ground she walks on, and to an extension, the path she went rather it be from her home, to the store, or to other towns and cities was now replaced with a slightly bigger dragon, one that is a cannibal.

“Question. . .do you know how dragons grow naturally?” The silver fox asked with a raised brow. This also made the mare in question to speak with no sound coming through for an answer. “I thought so. Anyway, He doesn't need to eat meat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. . . we did, however, prevented you ponies from dealing with dragon hunger pains.”

“Hunger pains?” Ask the pony and now a teenage adult dragon.

“Yes, All dragons go through it once in there life when they're small. Usually around 10 to 12 years of age. In fact, Spike is a strange case since you somehow avoided those pains.” The silver fox explained. “But it either here or there.”

“Um changing the subject. . .mind if I get new clothes, I um.”

“Say no more darling.” Rarity sweetly smiles. “Tho I’m going to need to take your measurements again, and with my. . .um assistant helping we’ll get them in no time.” The white unicorn they smirk. “And your emperor told me what you did.” This made the fox’s ears flatten.

For the next several minutes, The white unicorn, with the help of her silver furred assistant measurements of the now tall and barely nude dragon. From his head which was about 27 inches. Then neck which was about 16 inches. The unicorn moved towards his chest, which was a good 40 inches. Then the arm length which was about 3 inches long, and 4.6 inches in 4.7. Yajirushi found it funny that the dragon was trying to show off to the mare of his dreams by showing how much he had grown. The legs were measured next was the hips which Rarity did by wrapping around the measuring tape, revealing that he had lost all of his baby fat. Despite being slim he was still a good 35 inches. She then moved to his thigh was about 32 inches from inner thigh then foot with thighs begin. And finally, his tail that was around 50 inches in length.

While she was taking the dragon’s measurements It took all of Spike willpower to not pop a boner right there and then. Normally such touching would likely cause a reaction, ether him fainting or blood rubbing down his nose.

“So tell me.” Rarity begins, taking down the notes on Spike’s measurements. “What is your home country like? Um, Yajirushi was it?”

“That’s my name.” The fox said with a smile. “And it’s peaceful to say at the least. sakura petals falling like snow during the spring. Which reminds me that I’m going to miss the Sakura Spring Festival.” His ears perked up remembering the festival he planned on partaking.

“Oh?”

“Yea, it a festival that only happens once every year when Sakura Trees bloom all over several regions in Vulpes Terra. Kitsunes and other creatures would gather around parks, or any place with a Sakura Tree, set up a picnic ether under the tree, or somewhere within the park and enjoy the warm spring day or the cool spring night. while the sakura petals fall to the ground.” The silver fox closed his eyes remember the time where he was either with his family and friends all sitting under the tree, or in buildings sipping tea, or partying. Having fun, pranking others, and just having a good time.

“That sounds lovely. Under the pink petals of beauty, Oh I can see it now. The perfect stallion of my dreams under those trees. Kneeling down and asking me for his hand in marriage.” Rarity coo thinking of the image. Spike who wanted to gag also thought about it as well. Him and Rarity, under one of pink blooming trees. Him opening a box, revealing a diamond ring ‘Which he was tempted not to munch on it) proposing to the mare of his dreams. How beautiful would that be?

“Well. . .this is a very common thing to do.” Yajirushi explained placing his fingers under his chin. “In fact, it is so common that most of us place bet how many foxes propose within the area. We call it Koibito dōshi no kake, or lovers wager.”

“Really now is it really that common?” Spike asked.

“Mhmm?”

“Oh and I bet a strong and handsome fox-like yourself has a vixen back home upset that you’re going to miss this festive of yours.” Rarity leaned forward and cup a hand on the fox’s cheek. “You do have a special some fox back home right? The green eyes looked at the mare with sadness in them.

“I did, and she was beautiful. A fox who fur shine like the golden rays of the sun. Despite having seven-tails, the citizens of believe her to be a tenko. She was a Zenko by the way.”

“What is an zenko?” Rarity asked interrupting the fox’s story. “Or for that fact what’s a tenko.”

“A tenko is the Kitsune version of an alicorn,” Spike said putting on his clothes. “There emperor is this tenko.”

“And the zenko are the nobles of our land. Fun fact Frostbite is a Zenko. Anyway, we met one night during the Sakura Fall Festival. And it was love at first sight. We went on dates, me paying for most of them. I took her any way she desires. . .unless I was at work, of course. Also, our fur color had this um yin yang thing going on.” The green eyes look down on the floor. One day I had sabbatical leave so I ran as fast as I can to her house so I can propose to her. . .come to find out she was cheating on me behind my back with some other eight-tailed kitsune. She was only using me for material gain. And was in fact in love with this guy.”

Upon hearing the tale Rarity decided to wrap her arms around the fox, bring him into a hug.“Oh dear. I’m so sorry.” Spike only walked over to the pair and place his claw on his shoulder.

“Yea. . .I mean that harsh.”

“Nah it fine. It happened a few years ago anyway, and pardon my language but the bitch got what she deserved.” The fox snicker. Evilly. “I place a curse on her. I won’t go into details on what happened, but needless to say, she or her ‘husband’ won’t expand their family.” Yajirushi on the inside knowing that the two kitsune who was the only child to their respective houses would never produce offsprings. “Oh and before you say anything, yes I was disciplined, nearly dishonorably discharged because it's an illegal practice of magic, arrested and fined.”

“Wait. . .are you?”

“A Yako, why yes. Kind of in my nature.”

The white mare let go. “Well um. . .I just go and get started on the designs. Um come back in a couple of minutes Spike, and I’ll have some new clothes for you.” With that, the white mare walked off to another room to get started.

“So does she live here by herself?” The silver fox asked placing his hands in his pocket.

“Something. . .she has a little sister who stays here on occasions. . .why you ask?”

“Just wondering.” Yajirushi smile then pushes the drake over to the direction where Rarity went. “Just remember I’ll be here when she breaks your heart.” This earned him a glare, Spike however shrugs and walked into the room.

Spike knew the layout of the Boutique like the back of his head. He has been in the clothes shop/home for many years now, and knew which Room the ivory mare would be in. And sure enough there she was sitting in her room designing clothes for the purple drake. Entering the room, Spike closes the door. “Um, Rarity?”

“Oh, why yes Spikey?” Asked the ivory mare tilted her head. “Is something the matter?”

“Um, I would. . .I kind of want to know.”

“Yes?”

“Well here goes nothing.I love you. . .I always love you ever since I arrived in Ponyville with Twilight.!”

Flashback: Yesterday

“You want to know if there’s anyone out there interested in you?” The red nine-tailed fox asked while he was chewing on a green frosted cupcake that tastes like apples and cinnamon.

“Yes, Miss Frostbite did say you are able to see into the future.” The blue eyes of the kitsune just looked at his armor guard who blushes then shyly looked away. His eyes then shifted back to Rarity and nod in conformation. The cat was out of the bag anyway. “I was wondering if you know when I would meet the perfect stallion?”

“First. Do you like him?” He pointed his tail over to the small purple and green dragon who was just eating gems with Gale who was explaining in detail about her powers over the weather.

“Why yes, I do like him.”

“I mean do you really love him?” The red fox asked once more.

“Well, I do admit that I always look at him as a little brother, or something close to that. He is special to me.”

“So you have no feelings for him?” Rarity only shook her head.

“Like I said. . .he’s like a little brother I never had.” The fox only nodded listen to the ivory mare. As he finished his cupcake, Frostbite dash to the table, picked up a couple of things, including a cup of fruit punch, and dash back towards the two offering the sweets to her emperor.

“You know you didn’t have to do that Frostbite.” A red magical aura encases the treats and floated towards the fox’s side. “As for Spike. . .let him off easy He has a lot on his mind as it is. And as for your future. . .Not to sound rude or anything, you may want to lower your standards a tad bit.”

“What?!”

“Knowing you’re interested in males. No stallion would want to date someone with high or double standards which you out of your entire life wants. Tall, good looking, must be polite, but not to be polite. In short, you want a stallion that knows how to treat a mare but is also in touch with his emotions, am I right?” This causes the mare jar to drop and the red fox to smirk. “I take your silence as a yes. If you lower your standards and come to a compromise then the perfect stallion(s) will be waiting. . .hell the stallion you want may even be nearby.”

Relocating her jar, Rarity looked around the room. Yajirushi was now talking to Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy. Manto was having a drink with Applejack and Pinkie, while Twilight, Starlight, and Sunburst were having their own conversation.“How would I know if he’s the one?”

“That’s is up for your heart to decide.”

Flashback ends

Rarity was just standing there. The dragon she knew for so long just confessed. She was aware of his crush on her for some time now. She thought it was a childhood crush and he would move on to someone else. But here he was saying those three words that she wanted to hear from someone else.

‘Let him off easy.’ The voice of the nine-tailed fox echo throughout her head. “Spike. We knew each other for a long time. And you’re my friend. But, I don’t feel the same way you feel.” Upon saying this. Spike let out a sighed in defeat. “Please understand that you will always be special in my heart.”

“I understand. Though I might try.” The dragon sounded defeated. He then turned around and walked out of the room. Before Rarity could say anything, the dragon closed the door, leaving her alone.

Spike walked downstairs to the main room only to find Yajirushi sitting down on one of the sofas. A teacup in one hand. On the table were three more cups. Sitting next to the silver fox was a white unicorn wearing white dress no doubt made from Rarity that shows off her curves. Her pink and purple mane rested on her shoulder and to some extending over her dd cup size breast.

“And that is the reason why we foxes are here,” Yajirushi spoke taking another sip of his tea. He was explaining why he and his friends were here leaving out the details on the reason why there were here in the first place.

“Oh. . .well to be honest I never seen a kitsune before. I’m even surprised you’re a part of the royal guard despite you not looking like one? And young to boot.” The mare commented while taking a sip of her tea.

“Thanks, but there are some good looking vixens that are in the 3 til 4 digits and still look like they're in their late 20s. Oh hey, Spike. . .how did the rejection go?” Asked the silver fox with a coy smile. Upon seeing the drake the mare cheeks turn into a crimson red. She did remember him being an adorable small dragon that reaches up to her hips. Now he’s a tall slender and to her handsome. Yajirushi could have sworn he heard someone's heart rate increase.

“S-Sweetie Belle? I thought you'll be with Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Gabby?” Spike asked surprised to see the up and coming singing idol here.

“Well, we were in Manehattan for one of Countess Coloratura concerts the other night and caught an early train after helping a colt find his cutie mark.” The jade eyes of the mare scan the dragon up and down. “Growth sport?”

“You could say that.”

Picking up the tray, the silver fox walked out of the main room. “I’ll leave you two alone.”

Meanwhile

“Oh snap!” Gale screamed out causing most of the ponies, as well as the emperor, Manto, Twilight, Starlight, and Sunburst to stop in there tracks. Currently, the group was making there way to the spa per Manto request. The nice massage would also help the emperor to clear his mind and figure out what spells his former student place. The visitors change from tactical clothing to a more modern one. “I completely forgot about the Sakura Spring Festival. I told Iwa I was going to meet him in the palace garden.”

“We thought you told him that you were going on royal business?” The black fox asked.

“You do know you can send him a letter...now that I’m thinking about it Bijin is going to kill me when we get back.” Seer just rubbed the back of his head.

“Who? Oh, are more foxes coming?” Ask Pinkie who just appears out behind Twilight, scaring both her, Starlight, Sunburst, Manto and Gale. “And did someone said festival?”

“Sweet rice of Inari. . .do you try to give ponies heart attacks?” The ninja asked clenching his heart.

“Well. . .there was this one time when we throw a big big big surprise party of Shining Armor and Cadence Anniversaire. . .and we were all in this giant cake and.” As Pinkie continued but was silents by a violet bubble that forms around the mare’s head.

“Well yes.” Twilight nervously chuckling remembering the ordeal. So many frosting. “Anyway, I believe it an event that happens every year during spring where Cherry Blossoms bloom. Am I right?”

“Oh, I heard about them. . .from Mistmane. . .she said it a tree that blooms once every year for a week. There are some in the crystal gardens.” Sunburst spoke, remembering the plants. “Oh um me Starlight, took Flurry into the gardens.”

“Yep, but not to slope or anything, but who is this Bijin? Is she your girlfriend or something.” Starlight asked with a soft grin on her face, wanting to any juicy details on the emperor. Before Seer could speak, Gale beat him to the punch.

“Lady Bijin is the most beautiful vixen in the land. And the best geisha of them all. Heck if I wasn’t into dragons I wouldn’t mind sleeping with her.” This causes all parties to blush, including the emperor. “However she’s Seer Dono’s concubine.”

“What?”

So this will be an A/N: I wrote out this chapter over a year ago, and never posted it. In fact, this chapter isn't even halfway finished, I have some much plan for this story, and this would be my longest story yet. Life is a bitch. Also, I lost all interested in not only continuing this story but the fandom as a whole. I still am writing fanfiction since A; I was bored and B: I found a new interest in The Loud House. Will I post my works over in Fanfiction.net? Maybe, And only the ones I completed which is the two stories that are on here. You know in Highlight I should have had posted my work there years ago. Anyway, I'm on the other site check out some of my work there if you want. It's the name only without the star. But other then that, this will be my last post on this site. Also Why and I tell the readers this here instead of my Blog?

More people will read it here? I don't know. I just won't delete this account since I been on here for over seven+ years when the time I wrote this. So there's that.

On that note do not. I repeat do not pm me on here or on Discord to have this or any other story I have. The answer is No. I do not care if it's your birthday, Christmas, or any holiday. You will not get this or any other MLP story I wrote.

Crisis Novastar Not saying goodbye, but see you later, and keep reading and making wonderful stories.