Real time. The ship Eastern Storm. The third day of the sea voyage.

It was early morning, and the sun was just beginning to show its first rays on the sea horizon. The sea itself was calm, although the wet deck still indicated the fact that it had rained the previous day. The crew of the ship performed their duties in accordance with the distributed watch schedules.

That night, the ship's mate, Simhaashi, was in charge of the ship. He was pacing the deck with a friendly, but already a little tired face. "I swear, I need another cup of coffee." Simhaashi said, and making a serious face, he decided to check the navigator's work in order to maintain the set course.

The boatswain, Platinum Tail, was completing the distribution of sailors to serve on the ship, and after exchanging a couple of friendly words with Simhaashi, he headed to the officers' mess. Finding himself not far from the admiral's cabin, and looking at the door, as well as two guards who were on duty guarding the princess's rest, he was filled with pleasant memories.

"I swear, this mare is capable of driving any stallion crazy!" Platinum Tail thought, remembering how Amira staged a real erotic show, on the first day of the trip.

He stood in front of this cabin with dreamy expressions on his face, and completely ignored the two bored guards who were silently watching the Boatswain, and slightly raised one eyebrow.

But one of the guards was tired of such stupid behavior on the part of the Boatswain. "Boatswain Platinum Tail, how long are you going to stand in front of Princess Amira's cabin and dreamily roll your eyes? Because, of course, we are ready to understand what is going on in your head and all that, but you ..." This guardsman did not have time to finish.

Suddenly, Platinum Tail's ear twitched, and he looked with frightened eyes at this door. The door of this cabin opened with such force, and hit that very guardsman.

"Ouch!" the guardsman yelled, holding his nose.

All the sailors who happened to be nearby immediately turned their attention to Princess Amira. The boatswain's eye twitched nervously at what he saw.

Princess Amira was in no hurry to leave her cabin, and measured everyone with a serious look. Her mane was disheveled, and she was not wearing her saddle and other accessories. Her gaze was full of seriousness, and beads of sweat were dripping from her forehead, and it was noticeable how her body was trembling slightly, as if she had experienced a lot of stress, or had a bad dream.

Both guards hurried to make a respectful bow. But Amira, did not take her gaze off Platinum Tail, which made a silly grin, trying to understand the mood of the Princess.

But Amira did not take long to wait. "Platinum Tail? That's what I need! I instruct you to gather all the officers in the captain's cabin, it will be an urgent meeting! I'll be there in ten minutes, and you..." Amira spoke in an imperious voice, which was a bit unlike this mare, so it was possible to understand that all the stallions were experiencing tense feelings. However, she turned her attention to one of the guards. "Send Livardis to my quarters, and do it quickly!"

After these words, Amira still made a slight smile, and apologizing to everyone for her harsh words, she closed the door and returned to her cabin. Apparently, to put your body in order.

Simhaashi, who was watching everything from the side, hurriedly descended from the bridge, and ran up to Platinum Tail, who was trying to concentrate, to carry out these orders from Princess Amira herself.

Simhaashi swung his hoof in front of the Platinum Tail, and decided to attract attention to himself. "Any suggestions what's going on at all? And what has come over our Princess, and even at such an early morning?" Simhaashi asked in a low, worried voice.

Platinum Tail, made a serious grimace on his face, and rubbed his chin. "A thousand sharks!!! I think we will get answers. Help me run these errands and wake up Captain Starmore. And I'll go to the mess hall and warn all the officers." Platinum Tail replied, and only after that exchanged a knowing look with Simhaashi.

Simhaashi narrowed his eyes and looked reproachfully at the Boatswain. "Okay, BUT you owe me a bottle of Rum!"

And while the boatswain and the captain's mate hurried down to the lower deck, and one of the guards overtook them to find the senior officer Livardis, both stallions decided to express their opinion.

"Heh... I don't have a good feeling, Lieutenant Commander Simhaashi! And you already understand who this is related to." Said Platinum Tail, keeping some anxiety in his words.

And before they dispersed in different directions in the corridor, Simhaashi stopped and looked skeptically at the Boatswain. "Well, I agree with you, Platinum Tail. I swear, I have never seen Princess Amira in such a state."

Platinum Tail, thoughtfully looked at his hooves. "Today, I saw a bad sign for all sailors. A seagull flew in and sat on the stern! You know what this sign means, right?" Platinum Tail said, and looked questioningly at Simhaashi.

Simhaashi just rolled his eyes and put a hoof to his forehead. "Yes, I am well aware of some signs that sailors from Equestria believe in. A mare on board a ship is also considered a bad omen. But I don't draw any serious conclusions from this! And now, try to remove the panic and all these ridiculous fears! I'll see you in the Captain's cabin in five minutes. I think that unexpected changes are waiting for us all..." After these words, both stallions nodded to each other and dispersed to run errands.

Well, maybe these stallions really have something to worry about. But that's what they're about to find out.

Just at that moment, Livardis and the same guardsman with a bruised nose were hurrying along the corridor of the artillery deck. There was an excited conversation going on between them, and Livardis asked his subordinate to provide some answers. And he can be understood, since he did not have time to have a good rest, and perhaps could only fall asleep at three o'clock in the morning.

"I'm sorry, Lieutenant Colonel Livardis, but I can't tell you the exact reason why Princess Amira called all the officers for an urgent meeting. But, I swear, I have never seen the Princess in such a state! She almost broke my nose when she opened that door." The Guardsman said in a serious voice, and pointed his hoof at his nose.

Livardis took a thoughtful look, continuing to walk towards Amira's cabin. "Hmm... it's really weird, but I'll try to figure it out. And you need to see the ship's doctor, so I'm relieving you from guard duty for today."

The guardsman smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Lieutenant Colonel Livardis! But please, if possible, keep us up to date with all the events related to Princess Amira! Every royal guardsman aboard this ship is no doubt worried about her."

After descending one minute, Livardis stood at the door to the admiral's cabin, he took a deep breath and tried to drive away the tired look from himself, since he would have to be in a secluded company with the Princess again. "I swear, this mare will drive me crazy!" Livardis said in his thoughts, and assuming a resolute expression, knocked on the cabin door.

Amira POV. Part 2. Nice meeting.

A few hours earlier.

Today was the third night during our sea voyage. As always, after spending the whole day with the ship's crew, I was able to stand at the helm for a while, although the weather was rainy. I still strongly asked Captain Starmore to let me run our ship. Of course, Captain Starmore didn't dare refuse me. My friend, Officer Livardis, also took care of me, so he politely brought my raincoat to shelter from the rain. For a couple of hours, I was in the company of Captain Starmore, Simhaasha's senior assistant, and Officer Livardis. We stood at the wheel and watched the horizon while I turned the wheel. And this sight was certainly funny for all sailors.

Although such a rain was unpleasantly cool, and most importantly, not quite familiar to me, and other ponies from Saddle Arabia. But it was obvious because it was winter now, even though we are in a warm climate. But we all understood that when we start heading north, the climate will be cooler. And it's snowing in Equestria right now. Therefore, I will most likely have to put on warmer clothes.

That's how my next day passed, and as always I had dinner in the company of my friend. We talked a little, and chatted a little while looking at the sea horizon through the window in my cabin. But after that, I felt like I needed to be alone again and go to bed. And although I did not share my personal forebodings and anxiety in my heart, I tried to keep a cheerful look.

And again, after thinking a little before going to bed, I noticed how the moon began its unusual flickering, as if trying to give me a signal. But I tried to push the thoughts away from me, and finally I was able to fall asleep with the very newspaper that was lying on my bed.

Apparently, my inner feelings, which I diligently drove away from myself or tried to hide, caught up with me that night. What have I done so wrong to the higher powers? Why do I have so many nightmares?

I had a lot of questions, but I couldn't control this dream.

I found myself on the shore of an island, and I was alone and completely unarmed. Suddenly, darkness with red hues and a fiery sky swooped down on this island. In the sky itself, the wild and terrifying roar of unknown monsters did not cease to be heard.

It was unusual for me, as I have never seen such nightmares in my dreams!

According to the description, it looked like the beginning of what our ancestors could have predicted. It was the beginning of the Apocalypse! The horror that puts this world to the universal test of soul and body.

I really wanted to wake up, but I couldn't do it. However, somehow, I was able to master my body, and was able to move in this dream world that was gripped by a nightmare. And I really hope that only I see such a nightmare. Turning my head in different directions, I could see the sea, which was boiling and had a red, bloody hue! And from the sea itself came a plaintive and at the same time painful cry.

I felt my heart beat faster, panic seized me, and tears flowed from my eyes. Turning my head towards the vast forest, I could see how this forest was burning, and many animals ran out of this forest in panic to find their salvation on the seashore.

And then, I began to realize that it was not a simple nightmare. It seems that the higher powers want to warn me about something. Then I have to be patient and gather the courage to endure all these hardships that fall on my soul and at the same time keep my sanity. But when there was a trumpet sound in the sky, I was so scared, as if it was real!

From fright, my hooves began to feel even better, I also ran along with these forest animals along this coast, but when I turned my head to look at this sky...

My eyes widened in horror, and my tail pressed against my stomach in fear.

Of course, I understand that I'm sleeping now, and I really want to wake up, but I can't do anything, and at the same time I feel my body well and this coastal sand under my hooves. There, from the sky, some kind of fiery rain fell on this island!

"Oooh... What is it? Why am I having this nightmare?!" I shouted, and increasing the speed of my gallop, I overtook several deer that were also running along this bank to find their salvation. But I perfectly understood the hopelessness of such a desperate attempt.

Suddenly, my body was enveloped in fog, and I stopped feeling the sand under my hooves. I couldn't see anything, and that made my heart beat even faster. I had the impression that I was in zero gravity, and at the same time my hooves were hopelessly twitching, trying to find something solid on which I could stand while all this madness continues.

I do not know how long I was in this fog, but the only thing that occurred to me at this very moment is that I should not lose hope. I remembered how a few months ago, I was able to see in a dream the one we call the Keeper of the World. In this very dream, he touched my head, from which I began to feel the highest bliss and love.

It was then that he explained to me that there were still many trials for my soul. But I could always please the higher powers, and be a good ruler for my subjects. I didn't lose faith. And for that I will get my reward. Yes... he promised me that he would return the soul of the very stallion to whom I gave my devoted love.

And since then, I've been waiting patiently all this time.

My short memories were interrupted and this fog dissipated. I was back on my ship. I was standing at the stern of the ship near the helm... But what I saw...

It was another horror! I squeezed my eyes shut, but the picture of the terrible sight I saw still tormented my soul.

Dead sailors and soldiers from my guard were lying on the deck. Someone had no hind limbs and was still alive, trying to crawl and find help. The ship was on fire! A few cannons lay scattered in the center of the deck and were still smoking. The sails were torn, and through their holes I saw the same heavenly Apocalypse. The bloody sea was raging because of an unknown magical anomaly, all the time tossing our ship on big waves. Several tornadoes were approaching our ship from the sea horizon... or rather, to what's left of our ship.

I clung to the helm of the ship with all my hooves, and from this strong wind, my mane began to develop in the same way as the flag on the mast. I tried to listen for sounds, but the noise of an approaching tornado drowned out all sounds. I tried to look around again so that I could find at least someone. But I was alone among two hundred dead stallions! I hope, will never see this picture in reality...

Tears rolled down from my eyes, and in my thoughts I tried to pray to the higher powers that they would help me and save me from this nightmare. My whole body was convulsively shaking from this fear, but at the same time, a signal of hope appeared in my soul. However, I was able to hear an inner voice that told me that I had to go through this ordeal, right now. And I have to harden my spirit even more, and not lose hope.

A drop of hope, in this sea of horrors, though a little, but pleasantly warmed my heart, and I wiped my tears with my hoof. However, it was all exactly useless, since the splashes from the strong sea waves still wet my face. That's only when I wiped this moisture from my face, and looked at the hoof... there was blood. I made a grimace on my face and tried to calm myself, but my body was in pain, as well as my soul.

Suddenly, all those tornadoes on the horizon evaporated. And surprisingly, the sea became calm again! The sky brightened, and the wind died down. However, there was still an unpleasant noise in my ears, and I could hear several painful moans. I widened my eyes, and let go of the strong grip from this steering wheel, after that I hurried down from the bridge to the deck to find live ponies. But the sight before my eyes, of all this tartarus, was terrible. Almost the entire deck was littered with corpses.

Finally, I was able to see some movement of the body, near one of the side guns. Making my way, and carefully stepping over the bodies of the dead sailors, I could not resist nausea and horror in my eyes. But gathering all the last will in my hooves, I finally got to that very stallion.

"SIMHAASHI!!!?" I shouted, and bent down and touched my hoof to the officer's chest. "Oh... The Almighty! For God's sake, what's going on?" I asked our assistant captain.

His armor was tattered and his tail was burnt. His body was shaking violently from fear, and his eyes were covered with blood. He was blind, but when he heard my voice...

Simhaashi smiled painfully, and stretched out his hoof, trying to find my body at the sound of my voice. And when I hurried to hug his hoof and press it to my lips, he was able to speak. "Princess Amira! I'm so glad... I... please forgive us all Princess Amira! It seems that we could not cope with this task, and now we are all finished." Said Simhaashi in a quiet, painful voice.

"What? Why? Simhaashi!" I said in a panic, and after that I watched Simhaasha's body go limp, and his hoof slipped out of my hooves. He took his last breath, and a bloody tear rolled down from his eye.

And again tears flooded my face, and I clenched my jaw hard, but there was such pain in my chest that I couldn't stand it anymore. "NOOO! NOOO! PLEASE! Whoever you are, please stop this nightmare!" I screamed looking at this sky, experiencing complete despair in my soul.

It was a terrible sight that tested my soul and willpower...

I was alone on this ship, among the dead crew. Various emotions appeared on my face, and I looked at this sky with a lifeless gaze. But my prayer cry was not heard. And then thunderclouds appeared in the sky. A few lightning bolts, and then thunder! And here again the sea began to show its cruel disposition towards those who dared to defy fate.

Suddenly, the ship shook, and a strong impact of the hull against something solid was heard. In a panic, I looked overboard to assess the situation, but my ears pressed against my head from the terrible noise. It was a terrifying rumble and roar coming from under our ship. I tried to get a better look, but what I saw made me back away with my eyes wide open.

Several tentacles of a terrible sea monster jumped out of the sea to a height higher than our ship. It was a Kraken...

I tried to say something, but I couldn't do anything. Fear gripped me, and when I pressed my hips against the mast and squatted down, these tentacles attacked our ship. There was a strong crack of the breaking deck, and the falling mizzen mast. One tentacle was flying towards me... and then I had no choice but to smile and close my eyes. If I am destined to die, then let this world remember me exactly like this.

But behind all this tragic moment, I was really able to forget that it was always a nightmare.

And again my body was enveloped in fog, and after that I opened my eyes and saw the same seashore where I was some time ago. However, this time everything was calm and suspiciously quiet.

I am still perfectly aware that my dream continues, and very stubbornly does not give me the opportunity to wake up. "So what's going to happen this time?" I said in an indignant voice, and grimacing on my face, crossed my hooves on my chest, expressing my complete dissatisfaction.

"Hey, Beautiful! How are you?" Someone's voice hissed behind my back, make my anus shrink with fear!

I swallowed the lump in my throat and slowly turned my head. "AAH!!!" I screamed, and quickly jumping on my hooves, I raced along the shore.

What I saw... I swear, all this time, I thought it was just fairy tales. But it was a real Nightmare Horse! I've only read about such demons in books. But I've always found it boring. Now I was able to see this creature in my dream...

"Come on, WAIT FOR ME! I Don't BITE!!!" The Nightmare Horse shouted, and rushed to catch up with me.

When I turned around, continuing to work hard with my hooves to save my life, I saw how this demon began to catch up with me! This thing was taller and bigger than Celestia!

The fiery mane and tail of this demon were waving in the wind, and a toothy grin appeared on his face. "So where are you going to run to?" The demon shouted when he was already approaching me.

I bit my lip in fear when the Nightmare Horse bit my tail. He was so fast that in a matter of seconds he knocked my body to the ground!

"AAAY! Bastard!" I roared in pain when I felt the intense heat of his body on my back.

"Haha... Gotcha baby!" The demon hissed as his fiery mane began to hang in front of my face, and at that moment he was lying on my back.

"Fuck you! HEY!" I growled, but at that moment I began to feel how this bastard slightly lifted his body and with his hind hoof, pushed my tail aside.

Suddenly my body was weakened by his dark magic, and I was almost unable to move. I could only breathe, and watch in horror as this demonic horse turned me over on my back.

"So... so... What do we have here?" The Nightmare Horse said and having licked his muzzle with his tongue, he began to push my hind hooves apart. "Wow! It's a Ring of Great Devotion! But I have not seen such a rarity. But it seems to me that you feel a little uncomfortable with this damn ring. Am I right?" The demon asked in a sly voice, and began to tilt his muzzle to my pussy.

I didn't want to look at what was happening to me in this nightmare. So I took a deep breath with a grimace on my face, and tried to close my eyes, but I didn't succeed.

Meanwhile, the demon continued to look into my eyes, and I could feel his hot steam from the nostrils on my bud of love. "I have to fix this." Nightmare whispered, and after that he winked at me and bit the ring with his teeth.

I felt his hot lips pressed against my labia, and it made my body tremble with sudden, sexual arousal. But there was anger in my heart at this demon! I hoped that even in this terrible dream, the magic of this ring would act naturally and be able to neutralize this demon.

But, it didn't happen! Instead, I felt great relief on my pussy, and for the first time in centuries, I was able to show my arousal in a natural way. Yes, I couldn't help myself! But when I saw this demonic horse raise his crafty face, that very ring was sticking out in his teeth. He winked at me again, and looked at me with the look of a sexual maniac. After that, he spat out this ring to the side. And although one part of my body began to show strong arousal, from which my pussy began to convulsively expose my clitoris, I still understood that it was only a dream. It hurt me in my soul, because I guess what is going to happen right now. He's going to rape me...

"And now, you can thank me." Nightmare said in a playful voice. But his voice caused a lot of suffering and made my heart ache.

I was breathing hard, and I couldn't say anything. Of course it was a dream, but this is already going too far. But I continued to fascinatingly watch this demon, who began to rub his massive body against my stomach. The Nightmare Horse stuck out his tongue and licked my face, which made me disgusted. However, his fiery mane continued to touch my face, but for some reason I did not feel pain. It was a little weird...

The eyes of this demon flashed with a fiery light again, and I began to feel my body in all places.

Finally I was able to speak, and I hurried to take advantage of this moment to make fun of this horse. "How long are you going to act like an idiot? I thought you wanted to get a thank you from me!" I brought my face closer, in intimate proximity to the surprised nightmare horse, who decided to give me some time to play with me and listen to my opinion. "So you want to get my gratitude for this illusion that you create in my dream?! I take it you're the one who sent me all these nightmares?"

The demon buried his forehead in my forehead, continuing to look at me with the eyes of a maniac, with a sly smile. "Yes! And it is only in my power to rid you of these nightmares. You can call me a bastard all you want, but don't forget that I can haunt you in your dreams for a long time until you go crazy! And it will concern not only you, but also your entire crew on the ship. But I have a business proposition for you. Are you ready to listen, or shall we proceed to what you need so much initially? I mean sex! And not simple sex, because you know perfectly well that you can experience for the first time in many centuries... Oh yeah... I know you and your story perfectly well! I feel your suffering, and I can save you from it. What do you say?" The demon whispered, continuing to tempt me, but still not trying to rape me, but only rubbing his massive sexual organ against my pussy.

I swear, at that moment I was already crazy! And when I finally wake up, I will urgently need to take sedatives, and maybe even alcoholic medications. I couldn't resist a groan, and decided to take this game, and use this stallion, for my base purposes. After all, it's still a dream, and I'm sure my ordeal will come to an end soon. But I have to be careful, and prepare for the fact that even in a dream, I will have to fight with all the troubles that will fall on my poor head and suffering heart.

"Aaah... And what kind of offer is that, handsome?" I said in a moaning voice, and it certainly started to spur the demonic stallion.

"Ha ha ha! Oh yeah... I know you like it. Your body has refrained from affection for so long that you are ready to accept it even from a demon, although it is always your dream. Well... My suggestion is this: I will let you out of the nightmare, and I will not torment your sailors in a dream. But! You will be mine today... I won't hurt you, but after we mate, you will get pregnant in reality. And in a few months, you will give birth to a foal for me! But this is not a simple foal. It will be a horse, a Messenger of the Apocalypse for this world! When he turns thirteen, the first wave of sadness will descend on this world. Many countries and kingdoms will enter into a fierce war among themselves! Hunger and poverty, unrest... and all the most terrible things will descend on this world. Yes, I'm telling the truth, because it doesn't make sense for me to hide what will happen sooner or later anyway."

After that, he made a falsely good-natured face, and raised his eyebrows. Magic passed through his body, and the fire on his mane and tail went out, just like in his eyes. And only now I could see his pupils, and his face was kind, and even shone with pleasant bliss. He shrank in size so as not to seem bigger than me, which of course began to alarm me.

At that moment, my heart was telling me not to be afraid of this horse anymore. But there was something mysterious here. However, his offer was as unprofitable as possible.

I made a determined face and furrowed my brows, because I'm starting to get bored with this bastard. "No! I won't accept your offer. You can kill me, but I will not become the mother of the Messenger of the Apocalypse! Now let me go! AAH!!!" I said it in a grumpy voice, but when this demon horse heard my answer, fire flashed in his eyes again, and rage appeared on his face. He pressed me hard with his body, and held my hooves with magic. "Oh, you freak! I knew my answer wouldn't matter, you'd still want to get what you need from me!" I said in a grumpy voice, choking on the weight of this stallion, and turned my face to the side. "I swear, I will cut out of my womb the bastard that you want to plant in me..."

"Yes, you understand everything correctly, Princess Amira. I will get what I came to your dream for. And this is for you, my mark, so that you would remember that I will be your nightmare all this time! You had a choice, and you could have agreed to bear this burden, but then I wouldn't have harmed you and your crew of sailors! Although, I have a better idea. I will send nightmares to all your subjects when I can break out of my shackles and enter this world! Don't forget to look in the mirror, and you'll see my gift." The Nightmare horse growled. I felt a burning pain on my face above my left eye, as if some magical rune had inscribed its inscription on me, and made a tattoo... and after that, I felt the tip of his large penis begin to push the walls of my pussy apart.

I opened my mouth, gasping for air, and at the same time I felt pain, but it was pleasant. But I couldn't help moaning and crying anyway. I closed my eyes and began to pray for the salvation of my soul.

The demon bared his toothy grin, looking at my suffering, and began to put even more pressure on me, pushing his penis into my vagina. "I'm sure you like it, bitch..." But he didn't have time to finish.

Suddenly, a bright beam of light flashed near us! A second later, a huge bipedal creature with angel wings was standing on this shore! There was a blinding light coming from his body, and I squeezed my eyes shut, so I couldn't see him exactly. It was hard to describe. It was a giant whose face and body could not be seen, however, in his hand was a large fiery sword.

The two-legged Giant put the tip of his sword to the demon's throat. "It seems this lovely lady has given you her answer. And she doesn't agree to your proposal. The trial is over, and you must leave. Otherwise, I have the authority from the Supreme Keeper of the World to intervene in this protracted game." The Two-Legged Giant said in a majestic voice. But his voice sounded like he carried a lot of love behind him.

The demon opened his eyes wide, and stopped his violence against my body. After that, he hurried to jump up from my body, and turning to this glowing biped giant, stood in a fighting stance. "Heh... You can tell all the Keepers of this World that I do not intend to participate in these games! My patience is running out! And soon my army will get this world. A world in which our law will be..." But he didn't have time to finish.

Now I began to understand perfectly who this two-legged giant was. It was one of the Keepers! So my prayer was heard, and the Higher Powers were finally able to intervene!

The two-legged giant shook his head. "I don't usually do that." Keeper replied in a calm voice, swung his sword, and dissected this demon.

But a moment before, the Nightmare Horse had evaporated, leaving behind a heart-rending howl. It was a terrifying scream, but it didn't last long. After that, the sky in my dream brightened up again. I was already squatting, and I was still in shock from the ordeal, especially from all these mysterious conversations between two higher beings who are so powerful that I felt like an insect.

My body was shaking and I was still afraid to look at Keeper of the World's face. However, he noticed it, and in the blink of an eye, his body shrank in size, so he was standing in front of me. His bright light began to fade, and my eyes began to widen with surprise and shock at the same time!

In front of me stood a two-legged man with the same angel wings, very similar to the same alien named Heart Path. "Are you...?" I whispered, and slowly began to approach him, continuing to look into his glowing eyes.

The man smiled, but after that he turned towards the sea so as not to look at me. "No. I'm not the one you're going to meet in Canterlot. I just adopted his image so that it would be more convenient for us to communicate. My true appearance, you've already seen..." Keeper spoke, continuing to look at the horizon of the sea, and at the same time leaving behind a lot of mystery.

But I really began to understand something, so I easily succumbed to my feelings. A grateful smile appeared on my face and I slowly approached this mysterious man. "Thank you, for saving me from this nightmare!" I was in such emotional bliss, so I wanted to hug my savior.

But when he noticed my intentions, he stretched out his hand in front of him, and I was under the power of his magic. I turned my head in different directions to understand what was going on. I saw a pair of magically glowing wings on my back. My body started hovering at the Keeper's eye level, but I couldn't touch him!

I looked at him questioningly. "What's going on?" I whispered, continuing to shift my gaze from those wings to Keeper.

Keeper smiled, and lowered his gaze. "You shouldn't touch me. Otherwise you won't wake up. But you probably have a lot of questions right now that you're eager to get answers to. However, I came here to stop this madness, and to help you a little." After that, he looked into my eyes again. "The man whose form I took, Heart Path, he is not in Equestria right now."

His words made my heart contract with pain, and concern appeared on my face, and there were even more questions. "But how? Then where is he?" I asked in a worried voice.

But instead of answering, he smiled again, and slowly came up to me, after that he stretched out his hand to my cheek, but he didn't touch me. I felt a pleasant warmth that warmed my soul and gave me hope. "If I only had the right to give you many answers and reveal all the secrets, your life would gradually become meaningless. Keepers of the World usually do not interfere in the affairs of mortals. But you're not an easy mare. You were marked with the sign of destiny from birth, and received many blessings from Keepers of the World. But don't forget about the blessing that Princess Celestia gave you. It was we who gave her this ability." After these words, he turned around and slowly walked along the shore.

"But... Wait for me!" I shouted, and flew after him.

Keeper turned to me again. "I'm sorry, but I don't have time to be with you in this dream anymore. However, I have a gift for you." Said Keeper in a loving voice, and looked up at the sky. "Climb into this starry sky, your wings won't always be on your body. There in the clouds, your old friend, whom you haven't seen for seven centuries, is waiting for you. It is she who will give you many answers, because she is your guardian angel. And now goodbye Princess Amira. When the time passes... in this life or another... we will meet you again, my beloved oriental beauty!" Said Keeper, in the voice of that very stallion, Heart Path, and radiating love in his eyes, he began to disappear, leaving me alone.

I was floating in the air and looking at the place where Keeper had just stood. I was like in a trance, from what I saw and heard, in this short time. This whole dream definitely makes a lot of sense for my destiny. And to see Keeper in your dreams is nothing but a gift from higher powers. It was a vision, and it's not over yet, so I have to get answers before I wake up.

I shook my head and looked at my magic wings again. "Well... It looks like I have to follow this path further. In the end, Keeper mentioned my old friend, who, in addition to all this mysterious moment, is my guardian angel." I looked at that starry sky again and flew up. "In the end, this is a great opportunity that I may not have. Hmm... I think I guess who I'm going to see now."

After three minutes of my flight, I enjoyed this blissful moment, and tried to think about everything I saw in my dream during this time. I think today will not be an easy day for me and my team. Heh...

When I landed my hooves on the cloud, and looked back, I didn't see anyone."But... there is no one here!" I said with a slight indignation in my voice, however, I believed that after these words, something should happen.

After a few seconds, a flash of green light appeared on this cloud, but it didn't scare me, so I patiently waited for my guardian angel. And here was my friend squatting in front of me, but her body had changed a lot. As far as I could remember her from the last time we met. Her mane and tail became even longer, but also retained their greenish gemstone hue. There were no holes in her limbs anymore, and instead of the usual wings like a dragonfly, she had wings like a pegasus. She was the same height as me, although seven hundred years ago she had the same height as a pony from Equestria. In general, she looked like an alicorn, and only her green eyes with cat-like pupils gave away her true origin.

She is a former Changeling Princess whose name I remember for the rest of my life. And I'm sure that Celestia also couldn't forget this glorious mare! Although, maybe it's not, and only I have such a blessed memory.

"Are you going to sit there and look at me with a mesmerizing look? Or maybe you'll hug me already?!" Emerald said in a playful voice, with a loving smile on her face.

A tear of happiness rolled down my cheek, and I couldn't stand such emotions. I jumped up and ran up to this mare to hug her tightly by the neck, just like she did me. "Emerald If you only knew how much I've missed you!" I said in a happy voice, but I couldn't hold my feelings. I started crying and hugging my friend even harder. "So many years... Seven centuries... I..." I finally gave freedom to my tears.

Emerald perfectly understood my emotions, and began to soothingly stroke my back. "I know... I've missed you a lot too. And it seems that the higher powers were able to make some concessions. That's why I was appointed your guardian. And this is good news for both of us! You can talk to me not only in your sleep, but also in reality. However, you can only see me in a dream. And I will always protect you, and give you many explanations and advice. The guardian who saved you from your nightmare gave me the right to give you answers to your questions. But sometimes, I won't be able to tell you much, so as not to break the rules and balance. All this is only for your good, and your beloved ones." Emerald said in a soothing voice, and after that her hoof stroked my left cheek. "Don't be afraid! This demon left a mark on you to make you chosen for his base purposes. Yes... He will haunt you in your nightmares, but at this moment, I will be there. However, you can completely get rid of this cursed mark only when you find Heart Path..." But she didn't have time to finish.

My eyes widened from understanding many things when I heard all these words from my friend. "Wait! So do you know where Heart Path is?"

Emerald's face became playful, and she smiled, while seductively playing with her eyebrows. "Wow! And you really want to meet him so much! But... You know he's not a stud anymore, right? Of course you know that. Yes, I know where he is now. By the way, he also has a guardian angel. And this is our mutual friend and my beloved stallion, who was with me until the very end. Valiant! You remember him, right? He was also in Heart Path team, he his best friend..."

I made a thoughtful face and turned my head to look at this starry sky. "Yes, I remember him. I remember all of you. But what happened to you in the end? Why is it still a mystery, even after all this time?" I asked in a low voice, but I began to show anxiety again from all these emotions and experiences.

Emerald put her hoof around my shoulder, and also looked at the starry sky. "I'm sorry, Amira. But I can't answer that question. The time has not yet passed to find out the whole truth... By the way, I was really hoping that when we met, you would want to kiss me, just like you did on the ship of Celestia, seven hundred years ago." Emerald said in a low voice, and put her chin on my shoulder.

I felt her touch and the warmth of her body perfectly. Her mane, which fluttered slightly in the wind. Despite the fact that it was my dream, and my guardian angel is sitting next to me, and asks me to kiss her. Of course, I didn't refuse her. After all, I don't want to miss this chance either.

I finally calmed down, and wiped the tears from my face. My mood has become good again. "Heh... Oh, I really hope that you will be in my dreams as often as possible!" I said, hugged my friend's neck with both hooves, and looked lovingly into her kind, playful eyes. "Before we start, I have a very interesting question. Have you seen Heart Path?"

But after my question, Emerald made a slightly saddened face, which began to worry me a little. "Yes, I saw him, in his new form. And I also wanted to talk to him, after all this time... But the Higher Powers do not allow me to do this. However, they promised to give such an opportunity in the future. And another reason why I'm afraid of meeting him... He's with Chrysalis now, and he truly loves her. And the way he caresses her, sometimes makes me a little jealous! I swear, I would like to be in her place for at least five minutes! But it looks like I have to be patient. And in case you haven't forgotten, Chrissy is our daughter..."

I decided to interrupt her, although I was a little embarrassed by it. But I urgently need to know the answers! Otherwise, all this drama that revolves around the same character, Heart Path, it will start to drive me crazy. And I really don't want to be a fool at the moment when I go to look for the one I love with great hope in my heart, despite the fact that now this soul is in a new body!

"Wait! Wait! Yes, I remember that you had your first daughter from stallion, Heart Path, but unfortunately, over time, I forgot her name. But now, you've been able to remind me of that! Chrysalis! Hmm... funny moment. So, Heart Path is in a loving relationship with his daughter?" I asked, raising my eyebrow slightly. But I was really curious.

Emerald chuckled slightly at my reaction. "Ha! Yes, it is. But don't be a silly filly! Firstly, he didn't even know about it when he met Chrysalis for the first time in his life. Secondly, she is his daughter from a previous life, and now he has a new life in a new body! Although it's the same soul. And don't you remember the same stallion who, between all this stupid war, managed to find time to give love and affection to another mare?! Although I won't say about him that he ran after every tail of the mare. He had his own method, according to which he chose a mare for himself, in his love herd. And you already know what it is! yes! He listened to the voice of his heart. And you are perfectly familiar with his taste of beautiful mares. And this is not a little bit, I, the former changeling princess, Princess Celestia, Night Flicker, who was able to feed the heart of this stallion, not only with my beauty, but also with modesty, combined with courage. And as far as I can remember, he had another mare, Pegasus, who lived in Canterlot. Yes... she is the mother of our friend, Quick Strike, but unfortunately I do not know about the fate of this mare. All I know is that she was supposed to give birth to a foal from him, about three months later, when I met Heart Path for the first time in ten years. Then you came along. Eastern Princess who sought refuge in Equestria, we all liked you now. We all fell in love with you. But you know the rest perfectly well."

I made a thoughtful face, but gradually I got a smile. "Oh yes! I know." I said and wiggled my eyebrows.

But Emerald grinned at my shy mood again, and rolled her eyes. "I still have a hard time believing that... What a desperate step you decided to take to demonstrate your devoted love to this stallion. Put On the Ring Of Great Devotion... and after that, to bear this heavy burden for seven centuries! By the way, you can not worry about this ring. The demon was able to rip it off only in your nightmare, but in reality you remained the same. So it's all right!" After these words, Emerald made a serious, thoughtful face. "But if Keeper hadn't intervened in time..."

I exhaled calmly, and waved my hoof. "Yes, I know about the consequences. I wish I could thank this Keeper properly. However, when I talked to him, I felt something that made my heart feel a lot of love. It was strange, and besides, he took the image of this man, Heart Path. He even spoke the same words as seven centuries ago." After these words, I shook my head, and again playfully looked at Emerald. "Hmm... Although, I probably load my head too much with all these thoughts. So what? A kiss in my style, or in yours?"

These words lifted the spirits of both of us, and Emerald's eyes sparkled with a happy sparkle. "Yes! Let's put on a show, right on this cloud! I have no doubt that Keepers of the World is watching our games." And after these words, she pressed her lips firmly to my lips, and our tongues slowly caressed each other.

We tried to delay this moment as long as possible, because no one knows what will happen in the next minute. And it seems that Emerald is not losing her grip, her passion is still as fiery, just like mine.

"Mmmmm..." I moaned lying on my back while Emerald caressed my side with her hooves, and at the same time her tongue licked my chin and cheeks, and everything ended in my mouth.

When we finished our friendly, affectionate games, Emerald decided that it was time to calm my soul and my curiosity a little. "You'll wake up soon. You need to change the ship's course. Heart Path is currently located on the island "Peak of Fear". But be careful, it's not as simple as it might seem at first glance. Why is this so? You'll figure it out for yourself. In the night sky you can see my signal that will show you the direction. Emerald glow. Don't forget that I'm always there. And now, it's time for you to wake up. On your way, you will meet someone who will become your friend. He can help you get to this damn island. I won't tell you much. Let it be a surprise for you!" Emerald said, and finally kissed me on the lips, her body gradually disappeared into the fog.

I feel sweat dripping from my face, and I am still impressed by the emotions experienced in this mysterious dream. A dream that started as a nightmare, and ended as love, hope and friendship.

I opened my eyes and gasped for air, although I felt my mouth go dry. "Ooh... It's been a long time since I've seen such miracles in my dreams!" I said in a low voice, still experiencing all these experiences, and threw off the blanket.

When I hurried to get out of my bed, I immediately went to my mirror. And of course, what I saw met my expectations. "Damn it!" I couldn't help cursing and rubbed my left cheek, in the place where the rune was inscribed. The tattoo that makes me the first target for this Nightmare Horse.

But when I took a closer look at this tattoo, I began to realize that, in principle, there is nothing terrible about it, and it made me smile. "And what? Looks pretty creative! After all, I'm sure that this tattoo on my face is only for a while... hmm... I wonder if others will see my face change?" I asked myself, and turning around looked out the window, shifted my gaze to the door from my cabin.

Outside the window, dawn was just beginning. On the deck, the voices of the sailors and our assistant captain, Simhaashi, could occasionally be heard giving orders.

But now I know what I have to do. And I must hurry, warn my officers that our course is changing.

That's what I did. However, when I abruptly opened this door, I accidentally hurt one of my guards! Of course, they were all a little shocked when they saw my appearance and the full seriousness of my words. Most likely, now there are various gossips among the entire crew of the ship. Well, I won't blame them for that. But this nightmare worries me a little. And I wouldn't want the ship's crew to get into trouble because of me!

While I was waiting for my friend, Livardis, I decided to put my body in order and comb my hair, wash my face, but I didn't have time to put on traditional accessories. And somehow I've already gotten used to them in my whole life. Sometimes, I have the thought that I probably won't be recognized if I show myself to my subjects without my royal, oriental saddle, and other ornaments on my head and hooves.

I was sitting at the table and calmly waiting for my officer, but it didn't take long. About five minutes later, there was a knock on my door.

"Come in, Livardis!"

The door opened, and my friend slowly entered this cabin. He looked worried, but as befits an officer of my guard, he was ready for anything. "Good morning, Princess..."

I didn't let my officer finish, and frowned."LIVARDIS! How many times can I repeat? When we are alone, just you and me, then you address me by name, without naming my title!" I said in a serious voice, but when I saw the confusion on my friend's face, I hurried to accept a good-natured smile, and coquettishly stroked my mane. "Relax. Come and sit at the table. We'll have a little talk and coffee before we go to Captain Starmore's cabin." I said in a soothing voice, and naturally it worked.

Livardis shook his head, but was able to relax and sit down at this table. "Did I tell you that you're going to drive me crazy before I retire?" Livardis asked me, and when he saw my eyes, which were shifting their gaze from the coffee set to the plate with cookies, he understood my hint. "Oh... yes. I'll take care of you, Amira." My friend said and started pouring hot coffee.

"Thank you, Livardis." I made a cup of coffee, and did not take my eyes off this stallion. "And now, I suppose you want answers, and I will naturally satisfy your desire. Moreover, I believe that the entire crew of the ship is obliged to know the truth."

Livardis also took a sip of coffee, and also did not take his eyes off me. To be honest, sometimes I see him looking at me with love, and with a secret desire to be closer to me. "Yes, you're right. After all, I'm your friend, and we're all worried about what's going on with you. I had to send that same guardsman to the ship's infirmary. What made you be so harsh?" Livardis asked, at the same time he completely relaxed and understood that it was better to communicate with me sincerely and not flatter me.

"Well, first I want to ask you something..." I said in a low voice, and I'll look behind Livardis towards the door to make sure that we are not being overheard.

Livardis noticed this, and raising an eyebrow, he also turned and looked at the door, and then looked at me again. "What do you want to ask? And why in the name of all that's holy are you acting a little weird?" Livardis asked, and watched me closely.

I was a little nervous, but I hurried to drive away all the bad thoughts. After all, why should I be afraid of such little things? "Do you notice any tattoos on my face?" I asked, and slowly turned my face, so that my friend could get a better look.

Livardis was frankly confused, and his ears twitched nervously, but after that he had a sly look. "Can I come over and take a closer look?"

It seems that this question caught me off guard, if I didn't know the true intentions of my friend. But I wanted to be in a good mood, and so I'll let him, this little game. "Yes, we have five minutes, so you can be bolder."

Livardis walked around this table, and when I turned to him, we looked into each other's eyes, and an intimacy formed between us. I could feel his breath on my face, and that made me smile and my heart beat faster.

Livardis squatted down and gently took my cheeks in his hooves, all the while continuing to study my face, as if he was my lover. Although maybe it's already starting to look like that. But I myself allowed this stallion to go a little further than the official relationship between the princess and an officer of her guard.

"No, Amira. There are no tattoos on your beautiful face. However, you still make me uneasy. Can you tell me about what is troubling your soul? I can feel your excitement..." After these quiet but affectionate words, he looked seriously into my eyes. "I swear to you, Amira! My heart is as restless as yours!"

I hugged Livardis by the shoulders with my hooves, and I felt that the more I get closer to this stallion, the harder it will be for my soul. "Livardis..." I whispered, but after that I decided to give my answers. "I had a very unusual dream. It all started as a nightmare in which I saw many horrors, including the death of our entire crew on this ship! Tell me, Livardis, have you ever read old books that mention certain mythical creatures? Demons from the outer worlds that are created to torment the souls of all living things!"

Livardis made a thoughtful face, but began to catch the train of my thoughts. He was well aware of my blessed abilities. I can see a possible future in my dreams, and communicate with Higher Powers. This gift is only available to the ruler of a particular kingdom, as a sign of fate and blessing.

Livardis slowly lowered his gaze, and it seems his face has acquired a sad shade. He does not doubt me, and understands that perhaps this trip may be the last in his life. But he didn't leave me without an answer. "Yes, Amira. I've read some books that mention demons as negative characters. But none of us has thought more deeply about the possible reality, and the existence of such beings." After these words, he took a deep breath, and I saw how his cheeks took on a tense look, he frowned and looked at me resolutely. "I think it's better for you to tell all these details at this meeting that you have scheduled. And now..." He suddenly pulled my face down, and our lips joined in a strong kiss.

I closed my eyes and hugged my friend's shoulders tighter. Our hearts beat in unison, and passion rose to the level of heaven. But it won't go too far. And I swear, I will do everything possible to make sure that all these stallions, if possible, come home alive!

"Mmmhmm..." At first it was just a strong kiss on the lips, but the passion in my chest jumped so high that I couldn't stand it. I opened my mouth a little and allowed this stallion to go a little further, in our friendly, and at the same time loving intimacy.

And finally, Livardis looked at me questioningly, and when I winked lasciviously at him, he understood my hint. His tongue gently entered my mouth, and I put a little pressure on Livardis to make him bolder. Our tongues began to circle their passionate dance, all the while transmitting these wet sensations, and the taste of excitement.

I completely gave myself up to this moment. And I also really wanted to kiss Livardis. Because he certainly deserves all these caresses from the mare. He might not have that chance again. Although I will try very hard to avoid all these troubles. And if necessary, I will go to this damned island myself. I'll take a boat and supplies, my weapons, and swim to shore alone, so as not to put all these stallions in danger. They do not deserve this terrible death, because of my desire to meet someone I have loved for seven centuries.

"Mhaaa!" I slowly freed myself from this lingering kiss, but I was pleasantly dizzy. I slowly rested my chin on his shoulder and tried to catch my breath. "Thank you... ahh... Livardis. I really needed it." I whispered and gently stroked Livardis on the back.

Livardis did the same for me, and I felt his pleasant caress on my body. "I want to thank you too, Amira." After these words, he pulled back slightly to look lovingly into my eyes. "I am ready to go with you even to Tartarus. I have a little sense of what you're up to. And I can't explain why this is happening. It seems that a stronger friendly attachment has formed between us. And I will not accept "NO" from you as a refusal!" Livardis said in a resolute and slightly trembling voice, but in the end he tried to smile.

Yes, I like his confidence and he is a completely devoted friend to me. A friend I love without a doubt. Therefore, I would not want him to be near me, in danger.

I gently stroked Livardis's cheek with my hoof, and gave my face more confidence. "I really appreciate your loyalty. But I ask you to trust me. Everything will be fine! With you is one of the most experienced and sexy mares on this planet. Now, do you mind helping me?" I asked in a playful voice.

Livardis grinned and smiled in a friendly way. "Yes, yes. I don't doubt you, and I don't doubt your experience." After these words, he made a jokingly serious face. "How can I serve you, Princess Amira?.... AAAY!" Livardis playfully waved away my hoof when I wanted to playfully hit him in the chest as well.

"If you make fun of me like that again, I'll bite you! And now jokes aside! Can't you see that I'm naked?!" I said with mock indignation, and furrowed my eyebrows.

But it seems that Livardis allowed himself to relax so much that he continued to play with me by his own rules. That's why I love him! And while I was squatting with my hooves crossed on my chest, he walked around me and stopped in front of my face, keeping the same official look.

"Actually, you look great in your natural outfit. Although I have to admit, and all the stallions on this ship will agree with me, that your accessories... it's always an erotic sight! You don't know many details yet, after your performance on deck. I heard that many sailors tried to secretly pour their sadness with wine and rum! They were all in grief and sorrow from the realization of their fate. And all because they understood that none of them could be closer to you and experience physical intimacy. That's why I had to strengthen the security of your cabin, and stay up all night myself, guarding your peace." After these words, he smiled and narrowed his eyes, slightly tilted his head to the side. "I think you just have to know this truth. And it is very good to think about the fact that by your actions, you sow in the hearts of all stallions not only the seeds of love... but also sadness." Said Livardis serious voice, continuing to look into my eyes, as if he was looking into my soul.

I looked away and sighed sadly, after that, I went to my clothes chest. "I know that, Livardis. But you didn't tell me something new." After these words, I opened the chest and gave everything I needed, and after hanging up my accessories and saddle, I went to my bed. But I was afraid to look at my friend because I was genuinely ashamed. "This has been happening to me all my life. And the idea of taking off the duties of the ruler of our blessed Saddle Arabia appears more and more often! I just want to leave the palace and start a new life, away from all the ponies." I rested my ass on the edge of the bed, and started pulling on a sock. "I'm tired of all this attention, and although it's a sin for me to complain, you still have to understand me." I said in a low voice.

Livardis covered his eyes with a hoof, and shook his head at the understanding of this touching sincerity in my words. "Forgive me, Amira, if my words hurt your feelings. I... I'm a complete idiot! Sorry... I'll help you now!" Livardis said in his agitated emotions, and ran up to me, after that he lay down in front of my hooves, and bowed his head, afraid to look into my eyes. "Amira, I'm your friend... and I can understand you, and what is troubling your soul, and this if you consider your blessed age! Forgive me again, but sometimes you give me a reason to forget about this important detail. And I, like any stallion, will always be fascinated by your beauty, and forget about everything in the world!" Livardis spoke in a pleading voice, and slowly wrapped his hooves around my hind hoof to begin affectionate stroking.

I looked at all this with a lifeless look, but after that my right hoof found the second sock. I took this sock and hung it on Livardis' shoulder. "Stop these self-deprecations, Livardis. I can understand stallions too. Therefore, I propose to close this topic, which will always bring me a lot of emotions. From love and passion, to sadness and despondency. But we should move on, and not lose heart! In the end, I definitely won't be able to fulfill the lustful desires of all the stallions who saw me as a desirable mare for intimacy. Now help me get dressed, and let's go to the Captain Starmore! We allow ourselves to linger every time. Although I absolutely don't care about all this gossip in the crew of sailors and officers."

Livardis looked into my eyes again and slowly got up to squat down. "So you forgive me?"

I just rolled my eyes and shook my head, which made my mane slide erotically over my neck and shoulders. I swear, these stallions are such cute creatures! That's why I consider it my duty to give my love and passion, but within my capabilities! Unfortunately, and maybe fortunately, I am not Princess of Love...

"For telling me the truth, which I already know perfectly well? NO WAY IN THE WORLD, I WON'T FORGIVE YOU FOR THIS!" I said in a feigned, serious voice, and narrowing my eyes, brought my lips closer to Livardis' lips. Of course, he fell into another confusion, and carefully watched my playful actions. "So today you will work out your punishment... and now proceed to fulfill the duties of my beloved officer!" I said with sincere passion, and after that I surprised my friend even more.

I rested my front hooves on this bed, and raising my right rear hoof to the level of Livardis' eyes, I decided to show him my stretching. A sly grin appeared on my face when I saw the embarrassment on Livardis' face, and after that, I put my foot on his shoulder.

Livardis, without moving his head, but only with his pupils, turned his gaze to my leg, while he could not resist swallowing a lump in his throat. A few drops of sweat dripped from his forehead and fell to the floor, after that he finally looked into my eyes with a serious face. "Do you know, Amira?! I've been thinking a little bit, and I think I've come to a final decision. I am resigning from your personal guard, and I will ask to be hired as your personal maid! And if you refuse me, then I will leave the city myself, just to try to heal all the wounds on my heart, which will always suffer because of your lustful games!"

"Ha-ha-ha! Oh... Livardis, Livardis... And what, you're just so easy to leave your mares that are waiting for you at home? And all because of me? Put those jokes aside. I can joke like that, but you can't!" I laughed a little, and after catching my breath, I looked at Livardis with a loving look. "I am absolutely sure that in our kingdom, there are many mares who can be more beautiful than me. And never lose hope, Livardis!"

Livardis took off the sock from his shoulder, which I hung up for him, and lifting my leg with his hoof, he began to carefully put on my accessory. But his face became serious, he didn't even want to look into my eyes. This saddened me a little, and I saw moisture in his eyes. Even stallions like him can give in to emotions, especially when such a mare is nearby.

But when he finished pulling on my sock, he gathered his courage again, but this time he looked at me again with a serious look. "Princess Amira, how else can I help you?" Livardis asked, while his face gradually became lifeless. And he turned off the role of my friend again, and turned on the role of my officer.

I began to realize that most likely, I told this stallion something that saddened his heart even more. And as a last defense against going crazy, he decided to put on a mask. But I know perfectly well what's going on in his head. However, I don't want to put any more pressure on him.

I've had enough! I've already gone far enough, and I don't want this stallion to suffer!

But I pushed these thoughts away from me and carefully looked into the face of Livardis, who was looking in front of him, and was afraid to see my eyes again. Eyes that have the magic of charm!

I slid off the bed and squatted down to be at eye level with my officer. But his gaze was glassy, as if he was looking through me.

"Livardis..." I whispered in a hoarse voice, and a sincere sadness appeared on my face, and a nagging pain in my heart. There is real chaos in my thoughts, as if even now, this demon, a Nightmare, is haunting me, and cursing my life!

"Princess Amira?" Livardis answered with a question, maintaining an even and even detached tone of his voice.

I decided to say the first thing that came into my mind: "Lieutenant Colonel Livardis, please go to Captain Starmore's cabin and notify all officers that I will be arriving in five minutes. I need a little more time to prepare. And also warn the navigator that we will change course. This will be an order on my behalf! And I ask you, Livardis, just be my friend, at least a little more, and prepare all the officers for my appearance. You can briefly tell them what I told you. And now you're free. I'll put the saddle and all the other accessories on myself."

I spoke sincerely and imperiously, and it was my intonation that made my friend look at me again as a living and... and beloved mare.

"I'll do it, Princess Amira." Livardis replied in the same serious voice, adjusted his guards cuirass, turned around and hurried out of the cabin.

"LIVARDIS! We'll talk to you again! I swear, you..." I said in a loud and slightly angry voice when that door closed.

My face twisted from the feelings of sadness that surged over me, and uncontrollable tears wet my cheeks. "Ahmhemh... Livardis... forgive me..." I ran to the bed and pressed the pillow to my face, trying to stifle my sobs.

But the heart... pain... the soul suffers. And the realization that this fate haunts me all my life, like a curse or a high price for my immortality and youth.

"Amira?" A familiar voice sounded in my head. And I was able to recognize my friend, the guardian angel, Emerald.

I quickly raised my head, and my ears perked up, my heart accelerated its rhythm. "Emerald?"

"Yes... all this time, I've been patiently watching you. And when your soul suffers, it also hurts me as your guardian angel. And I understand you very well. But I'm here so that you don't lose faith in the best. I'll calm you down..." Her voice in my head sounded like a whisper, but like an echo. But after these words, I suddenly felt someone gently touching my neck.

I closed my eyes and felt comforted. A smile began to appear on my face, and I wanted to hug my guardian angel. "Emerald, thank you for calming me down... you understand me."

"So, my girl! Quickly gather your courage! Drive away all the sadness and anxiety! Drop your doubts! Go wash your face, put on your accessories, and go ahead! Life goes on, and this world will hear about you many more times. Your officers are waiting for you, and you need to explain all the details to them as soon as possible, and then change the ship's course. Otherwise, you're letting yourself waste time on all this drama!" Emеrald said in a determined voice, and I felt her wing touch my back for the last time.

"You're right! I don't have time for these tears and sadness..." I replied and went to my washbasin to put my face in order.

I was able to quickly restore my mood, and after taking a few breaths of fresh sea air, I left my cabin. I was fully dressed and ready for decisive action on this day. And I'll talk to Livardis later. After all, I'm not a ruthless mare, but we definitely need to end this kind of intimacy between us. It's my own fault that I let this happen. And now the stallion is suffering because of me! I should apologize to him, and maybe try to be a little more modest.

Although I know myself perfectly well. Everything will turn out as usual. It will take a little time, I will calm down and be a mischievous, playful mare again.

Light and quite humid, the morning wind pleasantly refreshed my face, from which I felt a new wave of cheerfulness. As always, all the sailors and guards greeted and politely wished me a good day. The smell of damp wood and wet sails, all reminded of the past rain. I answered them with the same good-humour, but their attention did not escape my haste when I went down to the lower deck and went to the captain's cabin.

I am sure that Livardis has already been able to prepare all the officers for my appearance. But I hope that all these stallions will be able to understand me, and will not secretly think that I am a crazy mare.

When I entered the captain's cabin, I saw that all the officers had already gathered and were patiently waiting for my arrival. "Good morning, Princess Amira!" The officers said in one voice and respectfully bowed.

Livardis was standing by the window at that moment, looking at me expectantly. Captain Starmore got up from his saddle cushion, watching me sit down at this table, he carefully looked into my eyes. "Princess Amira. We've already heard something from your officer, but if you don't mind, could you let us all in on your plans? And before it's too late..." The captain pointed with his hoof to the map that was lying on the table, and attracted the attention of all those present. "We are now about ten days from the port of Baltimare. And I already know that you want to change course. Can you show this place on the map or name the port we should arrive at?" Starmore asked in a serious voice.

"Good. Have you ever heard of the island "Peak of Fear"?" I asked and looked expectantly at Starmore.

A strange silence was created in the cabin, which was broken only by the noise of the sea and the light wind. This alerted me a little, and I slowly raised my gaze to examine all the officers. Each of them had different emotions on their faces, but Captain Starmore narrowed his eyes and made a grimace on his face. However, he had a thoughtful look and was in no hurry to give his answer.

I made an impenetrable face and banged my hoof on the table to attract the captain's attention. "CAPTAIN STARMORE! Did I ask a stupid question?" I said in a slightly angry voice, and this action shocked all the officers a little.

Starmore cleared his throat and made an apologetic face. "Forgive me, Princess Amira. But when you mentioned the island of "Peak of Fear", I was transported into my memories for a while. And these are not the best memories..." Starmore answered in a quiet, serious voice, and when he saw my stern look, he looked at the map again.

I blew the mane bangs off my face, and decided to calm down my sudden temper a little. "Can you let us into the secrets of your memories, and how is this connected with the island "Peak of Fear"?" I asked in a calm voice.

Captain Starmore nodded, and after examining all those present, fixed his mysterious gaze on me. "Twenty-three years ago, I was a young stallion then, and dreamed of seeing what was happening at sea. I wanted to serve in the Navy. But just at that time, I heard from my great-uncle that their group was going on a research expedition to discover unexplored areas of this planet. And it is possible to open access to new resources... I asked to join the ship's crew together with the researchers to be accepted as a sailor. And so it happened. Our expedition Brig was ready to sail, the crew was fully equipped, and the pony scientists were rubbing their hooves in anticipation of new discoveries." Captain Starmore broke off and putting a hoof on the map, decided to attract the attention of all the officers.

I looked at the section of the map that was south of Abyssinia. "Starmore? But there is no such island! And to be honest, I have never heard of it, and I have no idea where this island is located." I looked into Starmore's eyes again. "Can you explain? After all, we shouldn't waste any time." I said this with undisguised curiosity, but out of the corner of my eye I noticed how nervous our boatswain was. "Wait, Starmore." I looked at Platinum Tail and slightly raised an eyebrow when I saw his terrifying grimace on his face. "Boatswain Platinum Tail, can you explain the reason for your nervousness? Otherwise, you look like you've seen a sea devil or a demon!"

Platinum Tail shook his head and caught his breath, after that he took a calm look, turned his gaze from the map to me. "Princess Amira, of course I don't dare to doubt you and your decision, but when you named this island, I also remembered something. I am familiar with the legend that indicates that this island was raised from the seabed by higher forces, and this happened about two thousand years ago. But during all this time, no one could get to this island! And all because of the fact that this island is surrounded by a kind of protective dome and magical anomalies. Therefore, many sailors captains, in their excessive superstition, nicknamed this island just like that! Peak of Fear. There are other islands near this island, and the pirates use them as their bases. The strait itself, south of Abyssinia, has always been dangerous. Although the Abyssinians themselves do not admit to being guilty of this, and even try to fight the pirates. But it seems to me that this is always a political game, since the admirals of the pirate fleet pay off officials from Abyssinia, and quietly use the local islands for their own purposes. Princess Amira, this place is cursed not only by nature itself, but also by the fact that it hides many dangers. And it seems to me that pirates are the smallest part of all the chaos on this piece of land." Platinum Tail said, but when he saw the confusion on the faces of the officers, and my sincere curiosity, he frowned and crossed his hooves on his chest. "What? If I'm a sailor, it doesn't mean that before serving in the Navy, I didn't have hobbies! I am a unicorn, and my second passion is to read books about the various mysteries of Equus."

I looked sternly at the grinning navigator, and he caught my eye and apologized. "I'm sorry, Princess Amira."

I looked thoughtful and shook my head. "Well, this is very useful information, and now you, Captain Starmore. Continue your story."

"Yes, Princess Amira. But here I completely agree with Boatswain Platinum Tail. This place still holds an undisclosed secret. We also had no doubt that this journey could be dangerous because of pirates, but our Brig was able to develop good speed, and the ship's armament, these are the first light guns with a twelve-pound caliber, were able to give a worthy rebuff. That's what we thought and hoped... But it's not even about pirates, it's all nonsense. But the fact that our ship got into this so-called anomaly, which Platinum Tail told us about, this can make you think and change your plans. On that clear day, the weather was favorable at sea and the wind blew into our sails with enough force that we could reach the shores of the island of "Peak of Fear" in a few hours. The island itself was already visible on the horizon, about ten or more miles from our position. We were all looking forward to the arrival, and many were already preparing expedition equipment and supplies to land on this ill-fated island and start exploring. But long hours passed, and our captain, as well as the entire crew of the ship, began to realize that something was wrong..." Starmore spoke, putting sincere anxiety and mystery into his voice.

I noticed how Starmore's body began to shake, and his eyes became glassy. It seems that these memories really bring a lot of excitement to him, and I hurried to take the necessary measures to keep calm among my officers, otherwise Starmore and Platinum Tail, with their revelations, created a tense situation.

I looked at Simhaashi, who had been patiently looking at the map all this time and silently listening to the captain's story. "Lieutenant-Commander Simhaashi. Be so kind, go to the kitchen, and ask on my behalf that tea with soothing herbs be brought to us..." When I said the last words, I noticed how Captain Starmore twisted his face in disgust and turned away from this table.

"Ugh! Better ask them to bring us three bottles of rum!" Starmore said in a grumpy voice, and went to the window to look at the sea horizon.

Simhaashi looked questioningly from me to Starmore. But I decided to be diplomatic. "Yes, Simhaashi. Order rum to be brought to us. I think we're going to have a long and tense conversation." I said in a serious voice, and caught Livardis' eye.

Livardis made a sly grin on his face. "And don't forget to bring snacks! Otherwise, Princess Amira, is still new to drinking rum! Heh..." Said Livardis, not hiding his grin in his voice.

And this was certainly noticed by all the officers who raised an eyebrow and looked at Livardis, trying to understand the reason for his behavior. But Livardis himself, only winked at me conspiratorially, and as if mentally said that he was ready to bear any punishment for his audacity.

Simhaashi nodded affirmatively. "Yes, Princess Amira! Rum is what you need to calm any anxiety." After these words, Simhaashi hurry to leave the captain's cabin.

I made a cute face and squinted at my friend. "It's very nice of you, Livardis, that you take such care. Why don't you sit at this table next to me? Otherwise, it confuses me that you are standing near the window all this time, and behaving distantly." I said in a serious voice and pointed my nose at the empty saddle cushion to my left.

Livardis only shook his head slightly, but complied with my request. "I dare not refuse you, Princess Amira. And I'm not being distant. It's just that I don't think I can be of any use if I just look at the map. Moreover, I don't know where that damned island is located." Livardis said in a calm voice, and while maintaining a noble expression, he looked into my eyes.

Suddenly, I saw in the window how the sun's rays began to disappear behind the clouds and a strong wind blew, and this gave me a signal. I have to collect my thoughts. "Captain Starmore!?"

Starmore turned and looked at me carefully. "Yes, Princess Amira?" Starmore answered with a slight hoarseness in his voice, and again approached this table.

I made a serious face and gathered all my resolve. "Tell us what you saw in the sea, being near the island of Peak of Fear!" I said in an almost stern and even commanding voice. After that, I turned my attention back to the strait south of Abyssinia and squinted my eyes, trying to make out the barely noticeable points on this map. And indeed, it looked like a cluster of islands with different sizes, and each of them is about fifty kilometers from each other.

"Yes, whatever you say, Princess Amira. Our Brig sailed on these sea waves in the direction of this island for almost a day! And all this was unsuccessful! And all because our ship fell into the same anomaly every time, and therefore it seemed to us that we were still sailing, but we could not get closer to this island! Several scientists have tried to unravel the cause of this anomaly. We even lowered the boats, and tried to make the same move. But it always led to the same result. Our boats were floating in one place, and this damned island was mocking us. Then, the head of the expedition and the captain of the ship, made the most obvious decision: leave this island alone, and sail to other islands. That's what we did. But each of us understood perfectly well that if this island has such magical protection, then it hides something! But no one has managed to solve this mystery, and to this day, ship captains bypass the cursed island, whose name is the Peak of Fear!"

Everyone listened attentively to this story, and just at that moment Simhaashi and a couple of guards came into the cabin, who brought and placed a tray of snacks and three bottles of rum on this table. While I was conducting internal reflections and trying to reason sensibly, all the officers hurried to calm down and poured themselves a glass of rum.

If what Starmore and Platinum Tail are saying is true, which I have no doubt about, then how can I get to this island? But at that very moment I heard the inner voice of my friend

"Amira, don't lose hope. And order the ship to change course! You'll be able to figure out, a little later, how to overcome this magical barrier." Emerald whispered in my head.

But at this moment, my pensive state was distracted by Starmore's voice. "Princess Amira. Maybe now you can tell us about your plans, and what course of the ship we should set. We need to do this now, and maybe use pegasi, to strengthen the wind in the right direction." Starmore said, and took a big gulp of rum with a shaking hoof. After which, his face twisted. "Damn it! Great medicine!"

I slowly examined all the officers who were looking at me expectantly and waiting for my order and my revelation. "Listen to my order!" I said in a commanding voice, and all the officers lined up in front of this table and looked in front of them with complete determination on their faces. They are ready to follow me, even if it would be stupid or terrible. "We are changing course and heading towards the island of "Peak of Fear"!" I gave my order and carefully studied the faces of all the officers.

But only Captain Starmore began to show his nervousness again. His eye began to twitch, but the rum he drank relaxed his facial expressions a little. Starmore looked at the navigator and nodded. "Turn the ship on a new course, as Princess Amira orders." After that, he looked at Boatswain Platinum Tail. "Platinum Tail, distribute groups of pegasi to each sail, we are going at full sail and squeeze everything out of the ship that it is capable of! Follow orders!" Captain Starmore commanded.

"Yes, Captain!" The boatswain and navigator answered in one voice and hurriedly left this cabin.

After that, Starmore looked at me with a determined look. "I hope you know what you're doing, Princess Amira! And I don't doubt you, just like the rest of us." Starmore said, and after looking at all the officers with a stern look, he received affirmative answers from all.

"Yes, we dare not doubt you and your orders, Princess Amira!" The senior officer-gunner answered, and scratching his chin a little with his hoof, made a sly grin. "And besides, I'm just sure that it wouldn't hurt for this ship to stand out a little, and in the event of a collision with pirates, to show the full power of our naval artillery! I swear it will be the happiest day of my life!" Said the officer-gunner, and rubbed his hooves in anticipation of a funny adventure.

His words gave everyone a good mood, but Captain Starmore, still remained serious, and looked at me. "Princess Amira, we are all ready to go with you into any danger! But that's the thing..." Starmore, without taking his eyes off me, put his hooves on the table. "Now it's your turn, Princess Amira."

All this time I was thinking about the words of my officers, and I was thinking where to start telling my revelation. But I'm not going to hide the truth from them. "Yes, now I will tell you my mysterious dream. You must know the truth. But I beg you all, don't take me for a crazy mare. Treat me with full understanding." I said with a slight hoarseness in my voice, and it seems my awkwardness was noticed.

All the stallions looked at each other, and I sadly lowered my eyes, from the fact that I again began to experience the disturbing emotions that I experienced in my mysterious dream. But it was Livardis who decided to save my situation. Still, he is a good friend and perhaps understands my mental anxiety better than anyone on this ship.

Livardis poured a glass of rum, and pushed it towards me. "Princess Amira. Remember, no one is putting pressure on you. The order to change course has been received and is already being executed, as you can see if you look out the window." Livardis said in a soothing voice, and pointed his hoof at the window.

And indeed, I noticed how the sky and the sea horizon began to change their direction, as our ship made a maneuvering turn by about 15 degrees.

"Well, then I'll start from the beginning." I said in a low voice, and to remove the anxiety from my heart, without thinking about the possible consequences, I drank rum in one big sip.

Time has slowed down...

No matter how hard I try to look like a steadfast and experienced Princess at this moment, I'm still a mare who can't get used to such a strong drink. Therefore, I felt my cheeks begin to warm up, and several pairs of eyes were watching me. My eyes suddenly glazed over, and my mouth opened, trying to find salvation from this burning sensation in my throat.

Of course, Livardis was so kind, and naturally pushed towards me a plate with branded sandwiches made of olives and lettuce leaves, seasoned with spices. I didn't take long to wait, but I was still trying to maintain the appearance of a leader. I just looked gratefully at my friend, and with a graceful movement of the hoof, grabbed one of the sandwiches.

Time has returned to its course...

A few seconds passed, and I was chewing a sandwich with a satisfied smile on my face, and I began to feel my changed state of mind. I felt that I was no longer afraid of any adversity or anxiety. Now, I am again a mare who will show her strength of spirit and leadership qualities.

And then, I told my story in full detail, while putting all the emotions experienced during this dream. It certainly shocked every officer, but they understood that they had to trust me, and not consider me a crazy mare. I hope that they will not secretly fall into a nervous state.

All the officers looked at me with understanding, and even with respect. But it seems that our senior officer, who is responsible for the artillery on board the ship, had an amazing idea how to help me and further strengthen the spirit of the ship's crew.

An officer with the rank of Frigate Captain (or Lieutenant Colonel in the army), it was a stallion at the age of thirty-eight, and had a dark gray color, and its mane and tail were golden in hue. His name is Coal Trail, and he is always an optimistic stallion. And all of us absolutely like it, so we had not only respect for our senior gunner artillery, but also friendship.

Coal Trail walked around this table, and stood next to Captain Starmore to playfully look into my eyes. "Princess Amira! I am sure that no matter how impressionable your story turns out to be, the revelation from your prophetic dream, we must live on and smile in the face of possible danger. Therefore, I suggest you, after your revelation, to cheer yourself and our team up a little. I, like all of us..." Coal Trail examined all the officers, and again fixed his gaze on me. "We'd like to see how you can handle it alone to load a sixteen-pounder cannon and fire it. I even suggest to our carpenter that he build a small dummy as a target." After these words, he looked at everyone with a smile and serious eyes. "We all believe in you and your experience, Princess Amira. But you should practice a little and be prepared for possible danger. If the cannon crew is disabled, but the gun is still capable of firing, then everyone on this deck should be able to take on the role of a gunner! What do you say to my proposal, Princess Amira?" Coal Trail asked me, keeping the same enthusiasm in his voice that only made Captain Starmore wince and shake his head.

My mood was written all over my face. "I will say that if every officer on this ship keeps the same mood as you, Coal Trail, then we will be able to do even more than it is written in our destinies!" I answered with the same enthusiasm and stood up to rest on the edge of the table with my front hooves. "And now, all of you, look at this officer!" I pointed with my hoof at Coal Trail. "From now on, you all must remember that our mission will be dangerous and unpredictable! But! I, Princess Amira! And I'm with you... and I will not allow, and I will not forgive myself if any difficulties or troubles on our way turn out to be stronger than our spirit! And now pour rum for everyone."

Every officer who was in this cabin and stood near the table, hit his hoof on the table. "GLORY TO PRINCESS AMIRA!" The stallions shouted in a cheerful voice, and with even greater respect and self-affirmation, bowed their heads in front of me. After that, they started pouring rum into glasses, and I feel their mood perfectly. But the main thing is their sincerity.

The possible fear and anxiety were gone, and in their place came universal love and respect for me, a willingness to follow me even into the mouth of the Kraken to get my luxurious saddle out of its entrails. Well, I, in turn, told them everything that I saw in my dream. Naturally, each stallion had something on his mind, but they all looked at the map thoughtfully. However, as I asked, they understood me, and did not doubt my decision. Livardis has been by my side all this time, and his friendly support has always warmed my heart pleasantly.

Now there will be various rumors and gossip among the ship's crew. But it was an obvious result of my revelation, so I wasn't too worried about it. However, I have decided that I will no longer drink rum with these stallions! I swear, I'm not quite ready for such a self-approved act yet, to molest one of the stallions in a drunken delirium. No! Once was enough for me.

And when all the officers left this cabin, including Livardis, I was left alone with Captain Starmore. I needed to discuss something, and maybe find out more details that should help us in the upcoming mission.

However, even one glass of rum was already affecting me, so I put a hoof under my right cheek and looked at Starmore. "Now we are alone. Maybe you can tell me something more? You know perfectly well that I'm not a simple mare. I can feel and understand a lot more. What happened after you sailed from that anomaly? You're obviously not telling the truth, and you're doing it to please me, so as not to sow panic among our officers. And this is certainly right on your part. But I have to know what will be waiting for us on this journey!" I said and, opening my mouth slightly, poured a glass of rum for my interlocutor. After that, I pushed the glass of rum to Captain Starmore.

Starmore, who was already looking at me as if I was still just one of the mares in the port brothel, hiccupped and frowned. "No! I still haven't forgotten that you, Princess Amira, and I am always the Captain of this ship, which serves with all faith and truth for the benefit of Saddle Arabia and ITS GREATNESS..." Starmore said with a hoarseness in his throat and a slight indignation.

I decided to calm him down. "Shut up, Starmore! Now, YES... YES! Right now, I'm asking you to take a little rest in my company. Forget about the fact that a Princess is sitting in front of you! But don't dare look at me as a wharf whore either! I'm your friend, and I really want to prove it... I have already initiated everyone into my revelation. And the same demon... Nightmare! That bastard will haunt me every time I let myself fall asleep! So, don't even think about the fact that my fate is much better than that of someone on this ship!" I said without hiding my emotions, but after I felt my nostrils strongly inhaling air, showing my rage, I decided to be more courageous.

I also poured myself a glass of rum, and without asking my interlocutor about anything, I also drank a full sip of this drink. But this time I was already ready, and my body seems to have got used to it, so I didn't show a grimace on my face, but only smiled, looking at the surprised captain.

And although it was a heavy drink for me, I was able to exhale several times and look at Starmore in a friendly way. "Oh... Heh... A picky drink, however! Relax, Starmore. I won't bite you for behaving as if an ordinary mare from a tavern is sitting in front of you, in which you probably spend your free time quite often." I said in a very cheerful mood, but I could not restrain my hiccups, which caused a sincere laugh from Starmore.

"Hahaha! Oh... Princess Amira..."

"Amira. Just Amira, if we are going to be just the two of us, I ask you to call me by my first name only. I swear, I'm very tired of my title. And you can probably understand me why exactly."

Starmore, still trying to maintain a noble appearance, and a playful stallion who is able to love and give a lot of pleasure to mares, shook his head, and looked at me with one half-open eye. "Well... Amira... Amira, I know..." After these words, he got up from the table and began to walk around the cabin, indulging in his memories. "I know that you, blessed mare, and all these blessings are granted to you for a reason. I am sure of this, as each of us is. Anyway, the ponies from our blessed, Saddled Arabia, who love you, they believe and do not doubt that you are... YOU, Amira..." He looked at me intently, but I also got up from my saddle cushion and went to the window, all the while carefully watching this stallion. "Amira, you bring real prosperity to our kingdom! And your love for the subjects of our kingdom, this is already becoming a universal example and a glorious legend. Yes... I haven't lived as long as you have, Amira... Once upon a time, I perceived you as the highest thing in this world. But then I was a colt, and now I know the truth perfectly well. You, like all of us, pursue your goal. You are eager to meet someone who dared to leave you..."

"NO! HE DIDN't DO IT to leave me! And his vow, and his love for me... This is SOMETHING THAT I do not question! He promised to come back, in this life, or in another... then I could not understand the power of meaning embedded in these words. But the years passed... and when I found out that my beloved stallion, to whom I gave my devoted love, DIED..." After these emotional words, I put my chin on this table and covered my eyes with hooves. I didn't cry, but the memories of the past still hurt my heart.

Starmore did not stay away from my sadness. He hurried around this table and gently hugged me. As if I were his friend. "Amira! I know all this. And of course, I want to understand you and your loving heart, but it's not that easy. You don't have to go into the past every time! Now we have the future in front of us! And if you decide the fate of everyone on this ship... You know that perfectly well! The team will follow you, and will laugh in the face of any dangers... but... as a captain, I feel sorry for these guys. Especially if at home, they are waiting for families. And it would be stupid not to think about it."

His words did not calm me down, so I stared lifelessly at the edge of the table, and at that moment Starmore began stroking my neck and shoulders. "I am sure that my guardian angel will help us overcome any obstacle on our way." I looked into Starmore's eyes and smiled gratefully. "Thank you for your friendly hugs" I said in a low voice. "And you're certainly right, but you should let me in on your story in more detail. Because you're obviously not telling, and sometimes you're even afraid of your memories. I feel it perfectly."

Starmore released his friendly embrace and looked at me with a serious look. "You mentioned the Kraken from your dream. And I can't help but worry about it..." Said Starmore and returned to his seat again, and after that poured two glasses of rum. "Have you ever seen this monster in reality and not in a dream?"

I also looked at the captain seriously. "No! but! I've read a lot about it, and the sailors' gossip, which also reaches the palace, leaves no doubt that it's true!"

Starmore, grinning and frowning, crossed his hooves on his chest. "This is not a joke or fiction, the Kraken exists! And I saw him with my own eyes! This creature tried to capture our ship when we were already sailing away from that very anomaly. And then I realized a lot for myself... I want to live! Like all those sailors on our ship. You can be sure that we will follow you into any danger, but I wonder what you think about all this." Starmore closed his eyes and rubbed his forehead with a hoof. "I don't need to know about many of your details and thoughts. I will carry out any of your orders! Even if we have to start a war with Abyssinia."

I also winced at the realization of all this information. "Captain Starmore! I want you to be present at the moment when I fire the cannon! Yes! Yes! I intend to fire at least three volleys from each caliber. And, perhaps, I am the princess who will destroy the Kraken and solve the mystery of the island "Peak of Fear". I said, inspiring our captain.

However, Starmore did exactly as I expected. "Ha ha ha! Amira! You won't stop surprising the stallions on this ship! But I won't miss such an event." Starmore said in a cheerful voice.

Five minutes later I was standing by the cannon. Captain Starmore and the senior gunner, Coal Trail, were closely watching my actions. Although, such a funny event clearly attracted the attention of all the sailors.

But now I'm going to show these stallions what I'm capable of. I thought about it and inserted the "cartouche" into of the cannon.

"Oh!" I groaned right after I rolled the projectile (core) into the barrel of the cannon. "Heh... are there 32-pounder cannons on the lower deck?" I asked, looking at the grinning officer, at Coal Trail.

"Yes! Princess Amira, I'll remind you a little. 16-pounder cannons are mounted on the upper deck, depending on the weight of the projectile. The 24-pounder cannons are mounted on the second deck. And on the lowest gun deck are 32-pounder cannons. I hope you don't have to touch them! Oh, and a heavy thing, I'll tell you!"

But at that moment, we were all distracted by the screaming sailor.

"Look! There's an Abyssinian on a boat!" Pegasus shouted from the "crow's nest", and pointed with his hoof in the direction where he could see the same cat.

I exchanged glances with my officers, and was able to remember Emerald's words. "Hurry up, get ready for the fact that we will have a passenger!" I gave the order, and hurried to the bow of the ship. "It looks like this is an interesting twist of my fate. If this is the one who should help me in my mission."

"Yes! It's him." Emerald replied in my thoughts.

We all hung our hooves overboard and looked in surprise at the Abyssinian cat, who was diligently trying to pump water out of his small boat with a wooden bucket.

Starmore exchanged a serious look with me. "Damn it! Looks like this poor guy is in big trouble." After these words, he turned to the sailors. "Platinum Tail! Find a couple of pegasi to fly after this cat! It looks like he's gradually sinking. And I am sure that we will all have a lot of questions for this Abyssinian."

I also quickly turned around when I noticed that this Abyssinian was on his last legs, and his boat was already half submerged in the water. "Hurry up! He needs help!" I shouted in an imperious voice and pointed with my hoof in the direction of the drowning cat.

Author's Note

To be continued...

However, I'm using a nautical concept from an old computer game, Corsairs 3.