Nocturnal Bats and Green-Eyed Angels

Chapters

Offers Of Shyness
A Touching Surprise
Nation Of Folklore Part 1
Nation Of Folklore Part 2
Gentle Nectarine
Royal Reunions
Enchanting Expirations

Offers Of Shyness

Author's Note

Please Read Author's Note

Before anyone reads this, I would like to make a couple of things known about this story and the things that will be seen in it. First off, it is a revival of an old version that I did not feel satisfied with and decided to redo from the ground up. It is at least three years in the making after it was first made in 2019 but was delayed due to some setbacks. A few things in this version are the same while still being vastly different and I can clarify it for anyone who is interested. I won't reveal too much though, as I want to avoid spoiling too many things in this little mini-clopfic series.

One more thing I would like to point out is that this series is more or less connected to a major project that I am working on behind the scenes. Some characters will be recognized, others won't be recognizable, and there will be mentions of unknown events too. All will be clarified in the series that will be coming back in later years. Along with any potential others as this series continues down the line to the fifth and final story.

Offers Of Shyness

Cool winter wind blew through the coolness of the afternoon air as it swept through the streets of Equestrian Empire's town of Ponyville. Snowflakes fell through the sky, their crystalline color gleaming in the orange light of the descending sun. Each continued their slow descent towards the ground, meeting either it or the white blanket of snow that was covering random parts of the streets. Mares and stallions - young and old - roamed in parts of the town, holding hooves or taking joy in each other’s company. Foals ran around energetically, laughing and squealing as they frolicked in the snow, some helping others with valuables they were handling. For the residents, everything was wonderful, with the excitement for celebrations right around the corner.

For one thestral stallion, it was anything but wonderful.

Nocturnus Yakōsei walked through the buildings and stores as the bustling activity flowed into his ears. His head hung low, the ebony locks of his mane obscuring his eyes like a curtain covering a window as he stared at the ground. With each step, the snow beneath his hooves crunched, leaving a hoofprint trail as his tail dragged behind him. Every few moments, the wind would blow his mane away from his eyes. Allowing anyone close by to see the blue irises - and the sadness swimming inside them.

‘What a day this was...’ Nocturnus thought solemnly as he looked up at the setting sun. ‘I can’t believe how the end of this day turned out to be. It had started off so well for me too. Ugh, why did things have to turn out this way?!’

Nocturnus's day started off as it usually did for a stallion of his age. After being woken up by the devil that was Epona’s sun, the young stallion pulled himself out of his bed to have breakfast with his family. Breakfast in the form of fruits nectar and lots of meat that was sure to have other ponies shivering with queasiness. Once their family bonding was over, Nocturnus faced the day in the form of reading, wilderness exploring, and hanging out with friends well into dusk. With the arrival of nightfall, the stallion returned home to spend the night with his precious flock. Except they already had plans of their own that did not involve the youngest member in any way, shape, or form.

Before he had the chance to feel sad, Nocturnus’s mother - Lilith - presented him with tickets to one of the faraway lands outside of Equestria. From what the mare told him, the kingdom in the west was holding a festival, and anyone with tickets to it would be able to go and celebrate in its festivities. Something she had taken the time to surprise Nocturnus with while he was out and about. From what his father - Tenryu - mentioned, Lilith was only able to get two, so Nocturnus would only be able to take one other pony with him on the trip.

Despite the lack of friends that he’d be able to take, Nocturnus’s excitement was not dampened in the slightest. He spent the next twenty seconds hugging his parents to the point of choking them before his sister - Miyako - ended it. Without wasting another minute, Nocturnus flew out the front door to find someone to go with him to spend the night outside of Ponyville. It was around this time that Nocturnus hit a major roadblock. Being that no one wanted to go with him on the nighttime trip. Each time he asked one of the residents, he was met with the same response. By the afternoon’s end, Nocturnus was rejected by everypony he asked, leaving him with very few options left. All of which led to where he was now. Sad and alone and feeling downer than garbage thrown in a giant dump.

‘Nyx's gleaming fangs! I can’t believe nopony wanted to go with me to the Pink Moon Festival tonight! I guess not everyone is up for traveling to a land where folklore and myth are actually real.’ Nocturnus thought, lightly kicking the snow as he let out a huff of disappointment. ‘The only ones I haven’t asked are the other Cutie Mark Crusaders, but they might have plans to. It still can’t hurt to ask them if they want to go for a night out with me right? I just hope they won’t be as harsh with their rejections. Or as crazy.’

In the midst of his thinking, Nocturnus failed to notice the shadow of a pony coming up to envelop his own. By the time he did, they were already running into each other, falling on their rumps in the snow. Nocturnus let out a hiss as he rubbed his forehead from the collision, silently berating himself for not looking where he was going. He looked up to apologize, only to let out a gasp when he saw just who he collided with.

“F-Fluttershy?!” Nocturnus cried, scrambling to his hooves as if his tail had suddenly caught aflame.

The aforementioned mare shook her head, snorting out the snow that had gotten in her nose from her collision with the stallion. Groaning softly, she lifted her head, using a buttermilk hoof to brush away the cherry blossom curtain that was her mane. When Fluttershy finally made out who was in front of her, she mumbled, “N… Nocturnus?”

“Crap! Oh crap! Oh crap! What have I done?!" Nocturnus moaned, pulling at both sides of his face. He immediately went to the mare’s aid, not yet taking notice of the gifts that were scattered around them. “I am so sorry Fluttershy! I wasn’t looking where I was going and had no idea you were in front of me! Are you okay?!”

“...Yes. I’m a bit stunned and hurt from the hit, but I’m alright,” Fluttershy replied, graciously taking Nocturnus’s outstretched hoof as she got to her own. “I’m sorry for not noticing you either. I wasn’t paying attention and I ended up hurting you. At least, I hope I didn’t hurt you. Did I hurt you?”

“You didn’t,” Nocturnus replied, deciding not to tell the pegasus of the agonizing ache currently pulsing through his head. “I didn’t really feel anything until I was on the ground. I’m pretty sure that it was a lot more painful for you though.”

“Yes… it was.” Fluttershy nodded, gently rubbing her own head before taking notice of the scrambled gifts. “Oh goodness! The gifts! I dropped them!”

“Gifts?” Nocturnus blinked before looking at the items Fluttershy had. "Shit... I’m sorry about that.”

“No, it’s my fault.” Fluttershy countered, using her wings and hooves to pick the presents up. “I was the one who was carrying them and should’ve looked where I was going. I didn’t and I ended up messing up the gifts that I had bought for the girls. If anypony is at fault here, it’s me. Not you. And even if it was, I still hold some responsibility for this.”

Nocturnus’s ears dropped slightly at the mare’s statement. In the twelve years that he had known Fluttershy, he came to see her as a pony who was very kind and gentle-hearted. So much so that it was on par with that of his own mother and many other thestral mares he met in his life. Added by the fact that she didn’t have a single mean bone in her body or any kind of violent streak whatsoever. It was some of the things that he respected about the mare. Besides her motherly nature and love for children, pony or otherwise. All of which helped him to form a very close bond with her since they were more or less similar in personality. One thing he had a hard time with about Fluttershy though, was that she often made things more of her fault than they actually were. And even if it was all on her, she was known for habitually making it a much bigger deal than it really was, which usually wasn’t that bad at all. It didn’t bother him that much, but it always broke his heart to see that side of her come out. Over the years, she got better at controlling it, but it still did flare up occasionally.

“That doesn’t change the fact that I was careless in what I was doing,” Nocturnus stated firmly, reaching down to pick up some of Fluttershy’s items. "I think it’s only fair that I try to make it up to you. Both for this and making you feel like you just made a head-on collision with a yak.”

“I think you might be exaggerating love,” Fluttershy said, hosting her gifts onto her back. “I appreciate the offer, but I already said it wasn’t your fault. If anything, I should take this as a reminder to watch where I’m walking or flying... and maybe to carry so many gifts at once.”

"Yeah. May wanna get a cart or something with those,” Nocturnus murmured, watching as a nearby pony pulling a cart passed by them at the same moment. “Why do you have so many with you anyway? Are you gonna host a Hearth’s Warming get-together or something?”

"Yes actually! But it's not just me,” Fluttershy replied with abeam. “Spike, Zephyrus, and the rest of us were feeling pretty stressed from the friendship lessons, adventures, and jobs we were doing. So, we decided to have a Hearth’s Warming Party at Miyako's house. It was your sister that proposed the idea since we didn’t have the chance to get together since the last Grand Galloping Gala.”

‘Huh... so that’s why sis looked so excited when I got back home today. No wonder she was doing some much cleaning around the house.’ Nocturnus thought, looking off to the side as he processed the information. “I see… you guys must have a big night planned if it’s only going to be the nine of you.”

“Mhm! And I have a feeling I’m going to be in for quite the night!” Fluttershy nodded, giggling like she was a filly being taken around a petting zoo. “What about you Nocturnus? Do you have any special plans for tonight?”

At this, Nocturnus frowned, his ears fully pinning behind his back as he stared down at the ground, his mane shadowing his eyes. Fluttershy automatically took notice of it, and her maternal side flared up within her.

“Nocturnus?” She asked, her voice gentle and motherly. “Is there something wrong, sweetheart?”

“N-no… well, yes.” Nocturnus lied at first before eventually coming clean. “The truth is, I do have plans tonight. But… they are more or less at a dead end. So to speak.”

“A dead end? What do you mean?” Fluttershy asked, her curiosity peaked.

Nocturnus looked at her hesitantly. “Do you want the long version or the short version?”

“Um… the… long version?” The mare replied, not sounding very sure as to which version she wanted to hear.

“Alright, long version it is,” Nocturnus replied. “After I had gotten home from chillaxing with the Cutie Mark Crusaders, I went home to spend the night with my sister and my parents. But I got there I was told they already had plans for the night that didn't include me. Miyako was planning to spend the night with you guys, while Mom and Dad were going to head over to the Lunar Bay Empire for some… quality time together.”

Fluttershy’s cheeks darkened, making them contrast with the rest of the yellow on her coat. Nodding bashfully, she awkwardly coughed into her hoof before tugging at her scarf to hide her reddened face. “…Go on.”

“Right. So, after they told me that, my Mom decided to lift my spirits up by telling me she had a special surprise for me,” Reaching into his grey stetson hat, Nocturnus pulled out two red tickets that had symbols of a pink moon on them. “These are tickets to the Pink Moon Festival that - from what my Mom told me - is being held tonight over at the Western Rosière Kingdom. She thought I would want to take a friend with me, so she tried to get me one more. This way, I wouldn't be alone for Hearth's Warming.”

“You're going to the Kingdom of Rosière?!” Fluttershy cried, her hooves flying to her mouth as if she had stumbled upon an incredibly cute animal. “Holy Wings of Epona, Nocturnus! That’s wonderful! You have the chance to go to a land where vampires are alive and living as a society!”

“I sure do. Pretty exciting if you’re anything like me,” Nocturnus nodded, giving his best smile that did very little to hide the sadness he was feeling. “I was really happy when I got them, and I couldn’t wait to take who I wanted over to the festival and celebrate it with me.” His smile then fell as his frown came back. “Except... I wasn't able to.”

Fluttershy’s own smile faltered. “Did nopony want to go with you?”

“If you count having doors being slammed in your face, being chased away with a wooden stake, and being called a simp for the “demon mistresses of the night” as no one wanting to go accompany me to the festival, then yes,” Nocturnus confirmed bluntly, his response making the older flyer flinch as if she had been stung by a bee. “Not one and I mean, not one pony wanted to go to Rosière. I even asked Sparkler, who’s like a decade older than me! And do you know what her response was?”

“That she couldn’t make the trip and thank you for asking her?” Fluttershy guessed, trying to imagine the meeting going as smoothly as possible. Something that Nocturnus crushed into dust with his next response.

“She said that if I ever made her set hoof in that place, she would rip out my fangs and shove them so far down my throat that I’ll be shitting nothing but pulp from my ass for a week,” The thestral replied, watching as Fluttershy recoiled violently. “She also told me she’d use my fangs to give me a thorough experience of being butt fucked. If you know what I mean.

A cold shiver went down Fluttershy’s spine. Yes, she knew exactly what Nocturnus meant. She knew all too well even if he didn’t emphasize what he was saying. In spite of that, it didn’t make her any less embarrassed to hear that a stallion she knew since he was a foal was rejected in such a manner. Even more so since it was by a certain mailmare’s daughter who was known for having a pottymouth. She made a mental note to talk with that mailmare about her eldest child’s language and how it wasn’t okay to speak such a way to someone like Nocturnus. Especially since he was the little brother of a mare who was her close friend and part of a species having powers that were considered supernatural.

“Y-yes, I do,” Fluttershy said as she gathered her bearings. “I’m sorry that happened to you Nocturnus. It must’ve been hard for you to be rejected so many times. Especially since it was from some you know when you were a colt.”

“It was. Some more than others,” Nocturnus nodded, sighing as he ran a hoof through his mane. “I haven’t completely thrown in the towel yet though. I was planning to ask Mokata and the other girls, but I’m guessing most of them already have plans for the night too. It still can’t hurt to ask, right?”

Fluttershy didn’t reply, her eyes moving away from Nocturnus’s as if there was a replica of her giving her the Solar Stare. He caught onto her change in demeanor instantly and fear gripped his heart like a falcon’s talons. Nocturnus knew then that the mare was hiding something and whatever it was, he was not going to like it.

“Don’t tell me… they have plans too?” He whispered, his face scrunching up in discomfort.

“…They do,” Fluttershy replied after an incredibly awkward period of saying nothing. “Apple Bloom is spending the holiday at Sweet Apple Acres with her Family. Sweetie Belle is going to Canterlot for a Hearth’s Warming Play, and Scootaloo... will be seeing a special Wonderbolts show over in Cloudsdale.”

A whimper left Nocturnus’s throat at the response he dreaded hearing. His eyes squeezed shut, trying to fight back the tears building up in them. With a slight crack in his wavering voice, he stammered, “So… you’re saying none of the other Crusaders will be able to go with me to the Pink Moon Festival?”

“Well, not all of them per se,” Fluttershy said quickly, trying to keep the thestral from feeling sadder than he already was. “Mokata doesn’t have anything big planned for tonight. I was planning on having her go with me to spend the evening with my parents while I had somepony else watch the cottage for tonight. I know it isn't what you wanted to hear, but…”

“Great… just fucking great!” Nocturnus cursed as he gave a stomp like he was a colt whose sandcastle got destroyed in front of him. “And here I was planning to ask my closest friends if they wanted to go to the place where every single myth and legend lived as one nation! Looks like I really did have my hopes up for nothing. Nyx dammit…!”

A solemn silence washed over the snow-covered holiday-lit streets, Nocturnus sobbing silently while Fluttershy looked on sympathetically. Out of all the foals she had met and grown to know over the years, Nocturnus was one of her favorites. She had plenty of other foals - now adults - who she loved and adored, but the thestral held a special place in her heart. Putting his heritage aside, Fluttershy admired Nocturnus for his sweetness, diligence, honesty, sense of humor, and big heart. It always hurt her to see him look so sad and heartbroken. More so whenever it was something he was looking forward to that he no longer had the chance to do. And as Fluttershy stood there, watching the stallion she had seen grown to love like a little brother cry his sadness away, she saw it happening once again.

She wanted to help Nocturnus. Holy wings of Epona she wanted to help him. If not to at least ensure that his night didn’t go to waste. Most of all on such an important day as Hearth’s Warming Eve. A time when, friends, family, and mates, should be together. One thing Fluttershy did not like was someone who was alone, which only ignited her desire to lend Nocturnus a helping hoof. Other than Mokata, she couldn’t think of anypony who’d be even remotely available to go with him on the trip.

Unless…

“Oh well… I guess I'm going to be spending Hearth’s Warming alone this year,” Nocturnus said softly, calming down from his outburst of emotions. “Thank you for letting me know the other crusaders’ availability Fluttershy. And I’m sorry for taking up so much of your time. I’m gonna head home to get myself ready for the festival. I appreciate you letting me talk my fangs off like this…”

Giving the mare a respectful nod, Nocturnus slowly headed in the direction of his parent's house. He barely made it two steps before he felt a tug on his scarf, almost making him fall and faceplant right into the snow. Looking back, he saw the end of the scarf in Fluttershy’s hoof, the mare looking at him with resolution in her eyes.

“F-Fluttershy?” Nocturnus stammered, taken aback by both the action and the look the pegasus was displaying.

“Just a moment Nocturnus,” Fluttershy said, her tone making him stop in his tracks. “I think I may know a way to help you with your problem.”

“...What are you saying?” Nocturnus asked, slowly turning to stare at the mare.

Letting the thestral’s scarf fall away from her hoof, Fluttershy responded with a question of her own. “You said you only had two tickets to the Western Kingdom's Festival, right?”

“…Yeah, I did. I said my Mom was only able to get two tickets.” Nocturnus said, his brows furrowed in perplexion. Said brows then shot upward as he stared wide-eyed at the pegasus. “Wait.. are you saying that you know someone who can come with me?"

The buttermilk mare nodded in affirmation. “Yes love, I do. You remember me saying that I was planning to have Mokata go over to my parents for Hearth’s Warming, right?” She looked off to the side. “Well… I haven’t told either of them yet, they don't know about it. Mokata doesn’t know that either, and you have an extra ticket for the Pink Moon Festival, so…”

“No… no way! You’re kidding me!” Nocturnus gasped disbelievingly, his fanged jaw going slack. “You’re planning to have Mokata go with me to the festival?!”

“I am,” Fluttershy said simply, a small smile dotting her muzzle.

“B-but… but why?! Why would you do something like that?!” Nocturnus asked, those being the only words he could say at the moment. “You said yourself that you were going to have Mokata go see Mr. and Mrs. Shy! You have a house sitter for your cottage and everything! So why would you make a change of plans at the last moment to help me with my own?!”

“Simple. Because you won’t be alone,” Fluttershy replied warmly, taking a step closer to the stallion. “I know it seems out of the blue for me to do something like this, but I’m doing this because I want to help you. No one should have to be alone for any reason. Most of all on a day when ponies and other creatures should be together. One thing I don’t like is when others don’t want to be by themselves but have no one with them. That’s why I’m giving you this offer. To make sure that doesn’t happen. And if that means you taking my little sister to be with creatures of the deepest and darkest of legends, then that’s what I’ll do.” She back peddled a bit as she withdrew back into her shyer aura. “I, um…I-I mean... if that’s okay with you.”

For the longest time, Nocturnus stood, overcome by the shock of the surprising offer presented by the mare in front of him. He didn’t know how long he did, but it had to have been pretty long due to his eyes watering like they were twin damns that were about to break. After taking a moment to keep them from burning, he gathered his thoughts before finally speaking to the patiently waiting mare.

“W-wow Fluttershy… I don’t know what to say,” He said softly, so softly that Fluttershy almost didn’t hear him. “I never thought you’d go to this length just to help me feel better about something.”

“Well, you are one of Mokata’s best friends. You’ve helped her so much since you were growing up together, and I’ve always wanted to repay you for it somehow. I guess you could say this is partly because I wanted to show you how much I appreciate you always being there for my little sister,” Fluttershy stated sweetly, doing her best to hide behind the pink streams of her luscious mane. “So… is that a yes?”

The next thing Fluttershy knew, she was on the ground with her vision being filled with nothing but grey. She then felt herself being hoisted in the air as Nocturnus spun her around like a parent with their preschool-aged child. After a few seconds of feeling like her spine would be split in two, Nocturnus set the mare down as he gave out happy squeaks.

“Are you kidding me?! Of course it’s a yes!” Nocturnus cheered as his wings fluttered at his sides. “After everything that you just said, there’s no way I can say no! I get to have someone come with me to the festival now! And it’s gonna be one of my bestest friends in the world! Thank you for this Fluttershy! Seriously, thank you!”

“Of course, Nocturnus. Anything for the one who’s always been such a wonderful friend to my sister all her life,” Fluttershy cooed, giggling when Nocturnus rubbed his cheek against her own. “Just… don’t hug me so tightly next time okay? I appreciate the gratitude, but I’d rather not feel like my spine is going to be split in half by a Zebrican Cragadile.”

Nocturnus immediately deflated. “Oh! Sorry about that! I’ll be gentler next time!” He said, giving repeated bows with his head while Fluttershy straightened her back. “But really! Thank you so, so much for this! I’ll be sure to pay you back for this! I swear on Selene’s all-seeing eyes!”

“No need to do that Nocturnus. Just keep being there for Mokata like you always were and everything will be just fine,” Fluttershy said dismissively as she patted the stallion's head, making his nose twitch like a rabbit sniffing a carrot. “Now why do you come with me to the cottage so you can tell Mokata about the big surprise you have for her? I do want you guys to be able to have as much time to get ready as possible so you can have plenty to get to the festival. That and I also wanna make sure that you don’t catch a cold out here in this cold weather.”

“Fluttershy, you do realize that I’m a thestral right?” Nocturnus asked, pointing to himself as if he was giving a presentation in a classroom. “Our species are built for cold climate and especially chilly weather no matter where it is! Why do you think we have such fluffy ears and coats?!”

“That’s true, but it can also backfire for you on warmer days like spring.” Fluttershy countered as the colt landed beside her. “It may protect you from the cold, but your coat can also make it hotter than usual for you during hotter months like spring and summer. Even adaptable creatures like you can suffer if you stay out of your element for too long. Wouldn’t you agree?”

Nocturnus’s mouth opened, then abruptly closed as he acknowledged the point in Fluttershy’s words. “Yeah, I can…”

“Yes, you could,” Fluttershy nodded, giving the colt a wink. “Now, come along so we can get you situated in my cottage. The sooner we get there, the sooner you can cuddle with Mokata in front of a nice cozy fire while at Rosière~.”

“Uh-huh… that too,” Nocturnus nodded, purring pleasantly as he felt Fluttershy’s tail wrap around him like a snow leopard on a mountain's edge.

“And the sooner we get there...” Fluttershy continued, her smile gaining a devious edge. “…the sooner you can also have my sweet little sister for dessert ~.”

Nocturnus felt his heart skip a beat as he locked his slitted eyes with that of the older flyer. With an inaudible gulp, he stuttered, “W-what did you say?”

Fluttershy merely planted a tender kiss on his cheek, winking far too innocently for the young stallion’s liking.

“Nothing love. Nothing at all~.”

A Touching Surprise

If there was one thing that Nocturnus loved about the winter season, is how much it changed the environment around him. Sure, he liked the other seasons and saw why they were favored, but winter held a very special place in his heart. Aside from it being colder than a freezer, it always blew him away just how beautiful winter made everything around him. From the snow covering the branches to the snowflakes falling like droplets of rain. Covering everything in a pure blanket of white. Like some mysterious winter wonderland that only those with a love for it could see as being beautiful. Regardless of how corny it probably may have sounded or been to others.

As Nocturnus walked with Fluttershy to her cottage, he found himself thinking just that. With each step, he found himself gazing around at the wonder that was the winter season. Something that was amplified by the setting sun helping to light up the scenery around them as the sky grew darker. Next to the stallion, Fluttershy led the way, occasionally looking back to see if Nocturnus was still following her. Each time she did, she found herself giggling at the look of awe in the stallion’s eyes. It reminded her of a foal that was learning of new lands that they never heard of before. She found it rather adorable honestly.

“My Nocturnus~. You look to be really out of it today,” Fluttershy commented with a playful edge to her tone. “Is there something on your mind right now?”

“Huh?” Nocturnus asked dumbly, the mare’s voice pulling him out of his silent daydreaming. At that same moment, he stopped centimeters away from running into a thick snowy branch. Upon seeing what he was about to run into, he backed up and quickly joined the mare on the road they were on. “Oh, s-sorry Fluttershy! I didn’t mean to zone out like that... are we at the cottage yet?”

“Not yet, but it won’t be too much longer. We’re making good progress, so we’ll be there long before it starts to get dark.” Fluttershy replied, reaching out with a wing to brush off some snow on Nocturnus’s hat. “Why do you ask? Were you afraid that it was taking longer because of how much you were admiring the scenery?”

“…Now that you asked, I suppose I was. I was so caught up in seeing how pretty everything looked in the snow that I wasn’t exactly thinking.” Nocturnus replied, blushing lightly while wiping at his muzzle.

“It’s okay love. You were finding what you were seeing to be beautiful and you wanted to take in as much of it as you possibly could. There’s nothing wrong with that.” Fluttershy said kindly. “Just make sure that you don’t get too absorbed into it. You don’t wanna maybe run into a branch or trip over a rock or anything worse than that.”

“I think I got that well before you felt the need to tell me that.” Nocturnus deadpanned, his half-lidded eyes locked right onto the mare’s amused teal ones. He looked back to where he almost ran into the branch as if he was expecting it to be in front of him again. “Long before…”

“I know! But it’s better to hear it from me than feeling it or tripping over a rock, right?” Fluttershy stated, tilting her head with letting out a chuckle. “At least those won’t leave you feeling hurt anywhere.”

“True,” Nocturnus murmured, taking a quick glance to see if there were any upcoming rocks in front of him.

“Anywho, are you feeling excited?” Fluttershy said as she looked ahead of her. “ About taking Mokata with you to Rosière?”

“I am! I’m really excited!” Nocturnus replied, smiling a bit before looking down at the ground. “I just hope when I tell her she’ll feel the same way. I’m… kind of worried she may not want to go with me at all.”

Fluttershy shot a confused glance at the stallion. “Why do you think that? You and Mokata are best friends. She sees you like family as I do. And you feel the same way about her. You go to each other about anything and always do everything together. Why wouldn’t Mokata want to go with you to something as amazing as where you want to take her?”

“Why do you think I think she wouldn’t want to?” Nocturnus countered, giving the homeworking veterinarian a knowing look. “Aside from you Fluttershy, I know Mokata like the back of my own hooves. Out of all the Crusaders, she’s the one that I feel the closest to. In those twelve years, I’ve seen Mokata display some rather interesting traits. Ones that make me more than a little doubtful that she would want to do what I’m planning to do with her. Ones that I’m sure that you’re well aware of.”

Fluttershy’s lips pursed, her head swinging sideways as if someone smacked her across the cheek. It was no secret to anyone in Ponyville that she and Mokata were alike in practically all aspects of the imagination. One on hoof, both were incredibly kind, having hearts bigger than the skies they flew in with nurturing, motherly sides to boot. On the other hoof, both were as timid as they were nonconfrontational, emotional, and easily scared. Something that Nocturnus had quickly come to pick up on and learn about the two while getting to know them. In the years following, both have gradually improved in their assertiveness, fearlessness, and being willing to fight when needed. It still flared up every now and again, but when it did, it usually tended to serve as a fond reminder of the old days. For the other Element Bearers and the Cutie Mark Crusaders, Nocturnus, and his own sister most of all.

“I-I see. And you think it’s because of this, um… traits that Mokata may not want to join you on your trip?” Fluttershy asked weakly once she managed to collect herself.

“More or less,” Nocturnus nodded affirmatively. “Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying those traits are bad. In fact, I think they’re really cute. And part of what makes Mokata who she is. I’m just kind of doubtful that because of them, she may not wanna go to a land where creatures like vampires are real. Plus, I really don’t wanna end up giving Mokata nightmares that’ll follow her to her grave.”

“Hm… it does make more sense why you’re so nervous about her reaction to this when putting it that way,” Fluttershy said, contemplating his words like she was figuring out what medicine to give to a sick animal. “Even so, I don’t think you have to worry that much. I’ve seen Mokata grow a lot from when she was a filly, and she’s made a lot of progress. Most of all in the areas where you mentioned that she, um… shares with me. I’m not gonna deny that there is a chance she may not wanna go because of it, but you shouldn’t base your chances solely on that alone. For all you know, Mokata may want to go to a land she’s never seen before.”

“What makes you so sure of that?” Nocturnus asked with a raised eyebrow. “You think she’ll see going with me to the Blood Moon Kingdom as a chance to face the very things she scared off?”

“No, I’m not. But, I wouldn’t put it past her to do that if it was for that reason. Other than wanting to spend time with you.” Fluttershy said, pausing before getting back on track. "My point is… try to have faith, okay Nocturnus? You never know the outcome of anything. It’s always a good idea to keep both outcomes in mind instead of one. That way, you’ll be more prepared for what will happen. When you think of it that way, it makes it easier when facing something like this, doesn’t it?”

Nocturnus blinked, mulling over Fluttershy’s words as they registered in his head. “I suppose so...”

“Of course, it does!” Fluttershy nodded, wrapping a loving wing around the stallion’s neck. “Don’t worry, I have no doubt Mokata will want to take time out of her night to go to an event with you. You are one of her closest friends! I’m sure she’ll accept! And even if she doesn’t… well, at least you’ll meet a pretty mare in the Rosière Kingdom who’s more than willing to spend time with you. Even if it’s just for a night, right?”

“Right…” Nocturnus replied awkwardly, not even attempting to think of the implications behind Fluttershy’s last statement. “Thank you for that Fluttershy. That really cheered me up.”

“You’re welcome, love!” Fluttershy crooned warmly, pulling the stallion closer to her for a brief moment. “Me and the other girls are there if you need to talk to us about something. Even if it’s for things like this. Never forget that we love you, and we’ll always be here for you. Through the good and the bad, okay?”

“Uh-huh! I’ll be sure to remember that!” Nocturnus chirped, hugging the mare around her neck and nuzzling into it. “You're the best Fluttershy!”

“I know~,” Fluttershy said gently, planting a soft kiss on the stallion’s nose. Her ears perked when she heard birds chirping, making her look ahead to see where they were. “Oh! It looks like we’re finally at the cottage!”

Pausing in his nuzzling, Nocturnus pulled away from Fluttershy to see the giant hut that was the latter’s cottage. Most of it looked to be untouched by the snow thanks to the trees hanging from above. Though there was a good portion of it at the top of the roof thanks to the many branches growing out from atop it. As the thestral scanned the front yard, he could see burrowing holes and treehouses devoid of any residents. No signs of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and any insects of the sort anywhere.

‘I guess they decided to turn in early.’ Nocturnus thought, landing next to Fluttershy as they headed for the door. Not wanting to be outside any longer, he flew inside, dropping his gift on the rug in the middle of the floor. Nocturnus then propped himself right up to the fireplace, sighing in delight as the fire wrapped him in its flames of warmth.

"Looks like somepony’s eager to get himself all nice and toasted up. Not wasting any time, are you Nocturnus?” Fluttershy asked, carrying her bags over to her Christmas Tree.

“Nuh-uh! I want to get myself as rested as I possibly can! That way, I have plenty of energy to let loose at the Pink Moon Festival,” Nocturnus replied as he spread his wings out to their full span and moved them in front of the fireplace. “I also wanna make sure that I have extra energy to do whatever Mokata wants while we’re both there. After all, she’s also coming with me to the festival, so she deserves to have as good of a time as I do too.”

“Well, you are a thestral Nocturnus. You have far more energy than the standard pony. So it makes sense you should have lots of it for something like a kingdom festival.” Fluttershy commented, acknowledging the thestral's point. “I just hope Mokata will have the energy to keep up with you.”

“If you’re worried about me burning her out, then don’t,” Nocturnus said while glancing back at the mare. “I’ve had more than a decade to know Mokata. Sure, we’ve gone on our own little adventures and did tons of shit on our crusades, but even we knew there were some things we just couldn’t do. Had we not known or learned where our limits lay, we would’ve been worse off when we were foals.”

“Yes, I know…” Fluttershy laughed, thinking back on the times the Cutie Mark Crusaders all but demolished Ponyville during their adventures. “In any case, I appreciate you taking Mokata’s safety into consideration. It makes it easier for me to let her go knowing there’s somepony who’s looking out for her. I just hope she won’t overreact when she does meet the residents in the Western Nation. Epona knows the last thing she needs is to start looking for monsters under her bed or in her closet.” She shivered lightly. “Again.”

“You’re telling me.” Nocturnus nodded. “Where is Mokata anyway? Did she decide to go do some shopping of her own too?”

“No, she decided to say here and look after the animals for me while I shopped for us,” Fluttershy replied, tilting her head to the gifts she had set on a Christmas Tree. “I don’t sense her anywhere downstairs. She must be in her bedroom. Let me go get her for you."

As Fluttershy turned to head upstairs, she saw a cloud of what looked to be steam coming from the hallway. Stopping, she listened to the sound of water running briefly before stopping as a door being opened replaced it. A gentle and melodic humming followed by hoofsteps made its way in their direction before the pony making said sounds was revealed. It was a mare around Nocturnus’s age, looking to be a younger replica of Fluttershy. Save for her gentle sea-green eyes, stockings, and muzzle matching the color of the very snow outside. Her mane was the only part of her that was concealed, a towel concealing it as she used to dry the thick hairs on her head. On her neck was a black collar, a beautiful chain hanging from the center that held a roseray with a burning red eye in the center.

“Oh! There you are Mokata! I was just about to go looking for you.” Fluttershy said, pausing in her steps. “Were you coming out of the shower?”

“Yes, I had just gotten finished. I was out in the backyard playing with some deer and I ended up falling into the stream outside. I came inside to clean myself up before I went back out.” She replied, her voice coated with honied warmth. “Did you come back from your shopping?”

“Yes! I was able to get the gifts on time before the shops closed for the night and tomorrow,” Fluttershy replied, pointing to the tree in the far corner. “But I was a little late getting here because I ran into somepony along the way.”

“Ran into somepony?” Mokata repeated, stopping in her mane drying as Fluttershy pointed to the right of her. Following the lining of her older sister’s hoof, the younger mare went wide-eyed upon seeing the thestral sitting at their fireplace.

“Hey there Mokata!” Nocturnus beamed, flashing a fanged smile at the pegasus.

“Nocturnus!” Mokata cried, happiness filling in her as her eyes went brighter than a bedroom lamp. Before she knew it, the mare was running down the stairs, the towel around her head sliding off and falling to the hallway's floor. With her now visible mane flowing behind her, Mokata made a beeline for the colt, hopping into his outstretched forehooves.

“Epona's Holy Wings! I can’t believe you're here!” She gushed, rubbing her cheek against the thestral’s as she hugged him close. “What’re you doing over here?”

“What do you mean? It’s just like Fluttershy already told you. We bumped into each other in town and she took me with her to the cottage.” Nocturnus replied as Mokata pulled away from him. “I wasn’t expecting you to be here though. I thought you went with Fluttershy to help her with the shopping.”

“I was planning on doing that, but I felt it would be better if I stayed here and look after the cottage while Fluttershy was gone,” Mokata replied with a casual shrug. “Plus, I felt like if I did, I wouldn’t be able to stand the cold and I would get sick.”

“So, you didn’t want to get cold huh?” Nocturnus said in a partially teasing voice. “And didn’t you just say a few seconds ago that you were out in the backyard playing with deer and ended up getting soaked? Wasn’t that the reason why you were showering a few seconds ago?”

Mokata blushed as she backed up from the thestral. “I-I know that, but that wasn’t the point! I was saying that I didn’t want to be outside in the cold for too long in case I caught a cold! Plus, the mall is farther from the cottage! So I’d have more time to be able to take action. Especially since I’m younger and more prone to catch a cold in weather like this!”

“…Okay, when thinking of it like that, it does make more sense.” Nocturnus conceded. “But that argument kind of falls through with what you just said before. Unless of course, you were paying attention to just how long you could be out in the backyard before it started to get dangerous for you.”

Mokata paused, her mouth open as she tried in vain to find some sort of counterargument for the thestral. She looked over at her sister for help, but the older mare just shrugged, giving a little smile. Eventually, the younger sibling sighed, her soft pink mane falling over her eyes as her head went limp.

“You’re right. That was silly of me to say. I thought staying here would help me to reduce the chances of catching a cold,” Mokata admitted, face flushing blue. “But it looks like by doing that I just upped the chances of that happening anyway.”

Nocturnus chortled, holding back the urge to giggle at his friend’s show of adorableness. Since their first meeting, Mokata always seemed to have a certain air to her, and that there was much more to her than met the eye. While subtle at first, Nocturnus found himself constantly surprised by Mokata's behavior in certain situations. Cuteness made up most of it, while in some cases he was reminded just how bad it was to upset calm and gentle creatures, pony or otherwise. Occasionally, Mokata would display a show of strength that many wouldn’t expect to see from her. When she did, it went beyond expectations, leaving those there to see it absolutely speechless. Including the other Crusaders. And boy was it a show every single time.

As they grew, Nocturnus came to see other sides of Mokata which made her more down-to-earth in other aspects. For one, she was extremely sweet and loving, with saint-like patience and love for nature equivalent to Fluttershy’s own. At the same time, she also showed how scary she could be when she was pissed off. While they had an amazing friendship, the times that Mokata did get angry at him did well to remind him that even she had her limits. Rarely did it ever happen, so Nocturnus had no problem telling others how wonderful their bond was. Nevertheless, it never ceased to amaze him just how much Mokata’s anger would send terror through his soul. Along with the ones of those who found themselves at the center of her wrath.

“Yeah, you sorta did,” Nocturnus agreed, reaching out and giving Mokata a gentle head pat. “At least you got yourself cleaned up and refreshed before you had the chance to get sick! Now that would’ve been a real damper on your night!”

“I agree. I don't really have anything going on tonight, but at least it won’t be spent being sick in bed,” Mokata nodded as she looked up at her foalhood friend. “So what are your plans for tonight, Nocturnus? Did you want to spend the night here? Or did your parents decide they wanted to spend some time by themselves and had you go somewhere else?”

‘Wow, she almost figured out my entire situation right off the bat.’ Nocturnus thought, wincing as the talk with his family entered his mind. “Yeah, something like that. My parents have plans of their own that don’t have any room for me to be involved. And from what Fluttershy told me, even Miyako has plans with her and their friends, Zephyrus and Spike. I’m pretty much on my own for tonight.” He glanced over at Fluttershy, who nodded to him while silently gesturing him to keep going. “But… that’s not why I’m here.”

“What is it then?” Mokata asked inquisitively, unaware of the surprise the thestral had in store.

Giving a sigh, Nocturnus took the plunge. “After I had gotten back home, my Mom and Dad told me they had something planned for me. Since they and my big sister had plans for the night, they decided to go have me go over to the Vampire Kingdom over in the west. Its King and Queen are holding a festival tonight, and they gave me tickets to go and participate in it.”

“You’re going to Rosière?!” Mokata gasped in amazement. “Wow! That’s amazing Nocturnus! That was such a nice thing for your parents to do for you!”

“It sure was. What others would give to have parents as cool as mine,” Nocturnus nodded, touched by Mokata’s elated support while simultaneously surprised by her reaction. “I was really excited and I couldn’t wait to take whoever wanted to come with me to spend a night surrounded by creatures only heard of in books. But… that didn’t happen.”

Mokata’s own happy expression faltered. “What do you mean?”

“He means that nopony wanted to go with him,” Fluttershy emphasized. “Nocturnus went around the town and asked the ponies he knew if they wanted to go to the Pink Moon Festival. Unfortunately, they were either uninterested or too scared of the vampires to go with him. Some of them reacted rather… physically in their responses, but the message was clear enough.”

“Awww… nopony wanted to go with him?” Mokata asked, frowning at her sister’s solemn nod. Turning back to the grey stallion, she reached out and gingerly caressed his fluffy cheek. “I’m so sorry Nocturnus. I know that couldn’t have been easy for you.”

“It was… in more ways than one,” Nocturnus uttered, shivering as if he had multiple ice cubes dumped on him at once. “I was about ready to throw in the towel when I ran into Fluttershy on my way back home. I told her about my situation and that’s when she presented me with an… offer.”

Mokata blinked slowly as the bat pony’s words sunk in. “An offer?”

“Yes, love.” Fluttershy nodded, coming up to stand in between the duo. “You’re the only one who has time on their hooves that could be spent doing something other than staying here. And since you don’t have anything planned, you’re best suited for what Nocturnus is wanting to do.”

It took less than a second for Mokata to finally piece the puzzle together in her head.

“W-wait a minute… Nocturnus…” She slowly turned to face the thestral, who was looking anywhere but her. “A-are you saying that…?”

“Yes Mokata,” Nocturnus said as he pulled out the tickets he had stored away in his hat. Breathing deeply, he steeled himself as he asked the question he had prepared - and dreaded - to ask. “I want you to come with me to the Pink Moon Festival.”

Both of the thestral’s eyes snapped shut as he bowed his head, bracing for the rejection he was sure to get from Mokata. All while praying to Nyx that her rejection would be gentler than those he had received. For what felt like an endless stretch, silence reigned, feeling so thick that it could’ve been cut with a samurai sword. It was soon ended by the sound of air being sucked in, which Nocturnus figured out was sniffling. Eyes snapping open, he looked to see the shocking sight of Mokata having tears running down her soft yellow cheeks.

“M-Mokata?!” Nocturnus asked, fear filling up as his heart began to speed up. “W-what’s the matter?! A-are you okay?!”

“Nocturnus…” Mokata finally said, giving an inhale as she fought, and failed, to keep herself together. “T-this… this is just… I-I don’t…”

“Shit! Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit! Nyx’s Piercing Sabers!” Nocturnus swore, ignoring Fluttershy’s gentle look of admonishment. “I’m sorry Mokata! I didn’t mean to make you cry! I knew this was a bad idea... damn it!”

Nocturnus got to his hooves, grabbing at his hat so he could store the tickets away and get out of there. His left forehoof barely reached halfway to his head before he felt it being grabbed by another, softer hoof. Looking down, he saw Mokata holding it in place while she stared into his eyes - her own still flowing with tears.

“Mokata, w-what are you-?” Nocturnus asked fearfully but found himself stopping as the young pegasus spoke.

“Don’t go!” She begged, her pleading voice locking him in place as if a cockatrice had turned him into stone. “Don’t go Nocturnus! P-please just… stay here.”

“W-what?” Nocturnus asked as he slowly calmed down. “I... don’t understand. I thought you were upset.”

Mokata shook her head, doing her best to wipe away the salty liquid from her face. “No, I’m not mad! I... I'm just... I’m just so happy!”

“...You are?! But… you’re crying and-”

“It’s not what you think! I swear!” Mokata said, taking both of Nocturnus’s hooves in her own. “I’m happy! I really am! For you to go out of your way to do something like this for me! I knew you cared about me, but… I didn’t think you would show it like this!”

“I… of course I care about you Mokata!” Nocturnus asked, feeling shocked by the mare's statement. “You’re my best friend! One of the best that I’ve had in the twelve years that I’ve been living in Ponyville! Why wouldn’t I care about you after all this time?! For me to be friends with you for this long and still not have some form of care for you?! What the hell do you take me for?!”

Mokata giggled, her wings coming to her face to dry her eyes. “Yes, I know. I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings. I guess I was so overwhelmed by your surprise that I didn’t really think about what I was saying.”

“No, I’m sorry for getting so upset. I overreacted there and I didn’t understand what you were trying to say,” Nocturnus retorted, sighing as he rubbed the back of his head. Clearing his throat, he pursed his lips for a second before asking, “So… how about it Mokata? You wanna go out – I mean - go with me to the festival in the Undiscovered West?”

Mokata didn’t immediately reply, too focused on cleaning her face of whatever tears still stained her face. Once she was sure she had calmed down, she looked at Nocturnus with a smile that was as small as it was overjoyed. Giggling slightly, she hugged him, her wings enveloping him as if she was an angel embracing a lost and scared soul.

“Yes Nocturnus, I do. I would love to go to the festival with you,” Mokata finally replied, resting her chin atop his head. “I can’t think of anything that would be more enjoyable to do than this. Most of all with you.”

‘She... she said yes…! She actually said yes!’ Nocturnus thought, internally whooping in joy from the mare’s response. ‘This is awesome! I didn’t think she would actually agree, but she did! I'm gonna get to take Mokata with me to Rosière tonight! Hooray!’

“So… you do wanna go, huh?” Nocturnus asked, his outward voice calmer than the one screaming inside his head. “Glad to hear it Mokata. I promise! This night will be the best night of your entire life! We’re gonna have so much fun there!”

“I know we will~.” Mokata nodded, holding the bat pony close as she nuzzled his forehead.

Somewhere in the exchange of hugs, a gurgling emerged, breaking the silence with the force of an axe destroying the trunk of a tree. Abruptly Nocturnus and Mokata immediately pulled away from one another eyes on the floor as their faces went red. Just next to them, Fluttershy smiled, laughing in amusement at the sudden action as she went to break the ice.

“Uh-oh! Looks like two little ponies are hungry~.” Fluttershy cooed as if speaking to two infant fools. “Why don’t you two come to the kitchen so I can whip you up something before you head off? Don’t worry, I won’t give you too much. You wouldn’t want to be too full and not want to taste any of the festival food, now would you?”

“Y-yes, that sounds nice. T-thank you, big sister…” Mokata nodded, not daring to look at her sister’s amused face.

“Yeah,” Nocturnus nodded, looking just as embarrassed. “Me too, Fluttershy.”

“You’re very welcome my sweet little fluffy bundles~.” Fluttershy cooed, kissing them both on their foreheads. As she led them to the kitchen, the veterinarian looked at Nocturnus and calmly asked, "Oh, I meant to ask you Nocturnus. Do you have a designated time as to when you’ll be catching the train with Mokata?”

Nocturnus paused at the question. “Well… the festival doesn’t start until about nine, and it’s said to end at midnight. The next train won’t be here until six either. It’s pretty fast while going to the Undiscovered West so we should be there in about an hour and a half. We’ll have about another one and a half hours to roam around the city and find a hotel to stay at until then.” He looked at the pegasus questioningly. “Why do you ask? Were you wanting us to come back right after?”

“No. I was just wondering when you’d be catching it is all,” Fluttershy replied as they entered the kitchen. “I wanted to make sure that I’d have enough time to cook you something before you went on your way. I didn’t want to make either of you late.”

"I see. That makes sense.” Nocturnus nodded, pulling out a chair and sitting himself down at the table. “Thanks for that…”

“Of course love,” Fluttershy nodded, opening one of the counters and getting out her equipment. Setting them on the table in front of her, she looked at the duo with an excited smile. “Now then, which of you wants to help me with the cooking?”

Nation Of Folklore Part 1

Hearth’s Warming Lunch at Fluttershy’s cottage passed relatively smoothly for Nocturnus and Mokata. Both crusaders had lots of fun with the kindhearted veterinarian, and she took great pleasure serving the duo before they departed on their trip. Despite Nocturnus’s ravenous appetite, Fluttershy had no problem with serving the stallion, and Mokata was highly amused at watching her friend stuff his face. A few times he ended up biting off more than he could chew and nearly choked. But it was quickly taken care of by the sweet succulent fruits Fluttershy gave him to drink.

After helping Fluttershy clean up the kitchen, Nocturnus and Mokata both participated with her in a holiday game. Said game was an intense pillow fight that covered a good portion of the cottage in a pile of feathers. It felt a little quiet since there were no animals scurrying around but didn’t do anything to put a damper on their fun. After about an hour, Mokata and Nocturnus decided to call it off and head out. They offered to help Fluttershy with the mess, but the mare sweetly declined, saying that she’d take care of it. And that she had someone who’d be watching the cottage for her while she herself was away.

Freed from the responsibility of the pillow fight aftermath, Mokata, and Nocturnus headed for the Ponyville Station. While walking, Nocturnus came to the horrifying realization that they had less than ten minutes before their train went to their destination. Realizing they needed to hurry, Nocturnus took Mokata by the hoof and all but dragged her with him to the station, using his magic for extra speed. Mokata trailed behind him, doing her best to keep up with her thestral friend despite having the ability to fly.

By the skin of their teeth - and fangs - they made it just before the train headed off without them. Although peeved at the sudden intervention, the conductor let them on, not even bothering to chew them out for coming at the very last moment. Elated, the duo gave a quick bow of thanks before finding seats for the ride ahead.

“Oh thank Nyx! We were able to make it!” Nocturnus exclaimed, his head resting against the seat he was in as he sighed in relief. “I cannot believe how close we missed the train! I thought we were going to have to wait for the next one!”

“I’m kind of embarrassed we lost track of time like that. ” Mokata replied, using her hooves to smooth out her mane. “I was under the impression we had time to spare after that lunch with my sister and our pillow fight. It looks like we both got sidetracked.”

“I’m glad I looked at the Town Square Clock when I did as we were passing by it,” Nocturnus nodded, silently kicking himself for forgetting the time. “Only Nyx knows how long we would've had to wait for the next train if I hadn’t. Guess she decided to bestow her mercy upon me tonight.”

“If by mercy you mean powering through the town and dragging me along like a flag in a parade, I guess you can count it like that,” Mokata commented innocently. “You really went all out back there. I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to keep up due to how hard you were going. If you weren't grabbing onto me so tightly I definitely would’ve taken a tumble.”

Nocturnus winced. "I’m... sorry for doing that. I got too caught up in the fear of not wanting to wait for the train longer than we had to. I didn’t hurt you when I did that did I?”

“No. I was a little disheveled and out of breath by the time you did stop, but I was otherwise fine,” Mokata assured sweetly, putting a comforting hoof on her friend’s shoulder. “ Just give me a word of warning next time, okay? I really don’t want to have to go home to Fluttershy and have to explain to her why I look like I tumbled down a hill.”

“Duly noted Mokata. I’m definitely not pulling that little stunt again after what almost happened to us. Lesson fucking learned if you ask me.” Nocturnus said, shivering as the mental image of Fluttershy using her Stare on him flashed into his mind. “Honestly, I was pretty surprised that you actually wanted to go with me to the Rosière Kingdom of all places.”

Mokata blinked at him. “What makes you say that Noctie?”

“Well… I never pegged you as the type of pony who’d be interested in stuff like this,” The thestral explained, blushing at his signature nickname. “You usually like to do things involving flowers, animals, and plants. Or something me and the other girls drag you on crusades. I never would’ve thought you would want to do things involving coming into contact with the creatures you used to fear.”

Mokata’s face reddened deeply, her eyes shifting to meet the train floor as she fiddled with her forehooves. As much as she didn’t like admitting it to herself, Nocturnus did make a valid point. It was rather out of character for her to do this. Showing interest in the very creatures that used to scare her to the point of wetting her bed as a filly. Mokata honestly didn’t know what changed within her. Or where her fear of mythical creatures had suddenly gone. She assumed it was due to her being helped with her phobias that she was more relaxed about it than she was in the past.

While it was legitimate, Mokata felt like there was something else entirely that drained away her fear. Whatever it was, the mare was sure about one thing. She was definitely not the same scardey cat she was anymore, and what she was doing now only proved that point. Even so, that didn’t mean Mokata had to withhold any explanations about it. Something that she felt Nocturnus deserved despite not being outwardly asked about it.

“You’re not wrong,” Mokata finally said, smiling a bit. “To be entirely honest, I don’t even know what happened to me. It feels like only yesterday I was scared about going anywhere near creatures I used to look for before going to bed. Now? I don’t feel that. I suppose it’s because of the scary things we’ve been through that I’m no longer so sensitive to it.”

“That could be one reason, but I feel like there’s more to it than that.” Nocturnus agreed with a shrug. “Either way, I’m glad you’re not feeling afraid about this. I was sure you wouldn’t even fathom doing it, even before I asked you to come with me to the festival. But it looks like I was proven wrong. You are full of surprises. You know that?”

"N-no I’m not!” Mokata replied, her face matching the pinkness of her mane. “Just because I got over my fears doesn’t mean I’ve become a fearless warrior or anything! I just grew more accustomed to the changes! Like the arrival of Rosière! Besides, you’re the ones who are full of surprises Nocturnus!”

“Maybe, but that doesn’t mean the others aren’t surprising themselves,” Nocturnus countered playfully. “Need I remind you that it was you and Fluttershy who taught me it was the quiet ones you need to watch out for? You proved that old saying to me while we were growing up. Like that time when you saved me from that mountain lion in the Whitetail Woods with your Unholy Stare?”

“So what if I did?!” Mokata cried, gently pushing Nocturnus away. “That doesn’t mean there’s anything surprising about me! I was just saving a friend from becoming wilderness food for the predators! And the mountain lion was a girl! Not a boy! Did you forget about the cubs that we saw with her?”

“No, I most certainly didn’t. The mountain lion definitely made sure of that much,” Nocturnus replied, thinking back to the numerous slashes and bite marks given to him by the maternally driven feline. Along with the two weeklong recoveries, and grounding that he received from his parents for going into the Whitetail Woods unsupervised. “Be that as it may, I certainly count that incident as something to be surprised of about you Mokata. You are definitely a lot like Fluttershy in a lot of ways! Like big sister, like little sister!”

“I am not! We just have similar attributes is all!” Mokata denied, her wings fluttering like she was trying to dry them of water. “And it’s not like big sister like little sister Nocturnus! It’s like mother like daughter! And like father like son!”

“As if.” Nocturnus shot back with a smirk, pulling a now apple-red Mokata into him. “See?! Just like Fluttershy!”

Mokata buried her face in her forehooves, groaning as she fell against the thestral. "Oh, Epona…!”

“Anyway, I’m glad you're here with me now,” Nocturnus continued, his teasing smile melting into a warmer one. “I don’t know where I’d be right now if things hadn’t happened the way they did. I’m happy with how this day turned out.”

“So am I,” Mokata added, smiling up at Nocturnus as she sat up in her seat. “I’m really excited about what’s going to happen. Being in a new land, surrounded by a new species we only knew in legends and stories. It just makes me want to burst!” Her smile went away as a worried look replaced it. “I just hope we’ll get along well with the residents. Most of them have hardly seen any creature that doesn’t live in the Undiscovered West. I wonder how they’ll take our presence.”

“I’m wondering how they’ll take seeing a lesser version of a vampire walking in their kingdom’s walls too,” Nocturnus added, looking just as - if not more so - scared about how he’d be seen. “My Mom and Dad mentioned once they went to Rosière before and had a really good time there. Everyone was nice and didn’t give them trouble. They did mention they had some tense encounters with a few there, but it didn’t escalate and they came back unscathed, thankfully.”

“That’s good to hear,” Mokata murmured. “I still think it’s best we don’t bother them too much. I don’t doubt there are some vampires who won’t mind us, but I know there are others who won’t be kind either. Maybe during the festival, they’ll be a bit more tolerant of us. But until then, I think we should leave them be.”

“You’re right. We should at least be a bit cautious for our own safety,” Nocturnus agreed wholeheartedly. “Whatever the outcome may be, let’s just enjoy this night as best we can. Who knows? We might be able to bring back some trinkets, so we can always remember our first time here. What do you think? Sound like a plan?”

Mokata looked at the thestral, taking in his confident-fanged grin and the fearless look in his breathtaking mountain blue eyes. Unable to hold back a smile of her own, she nuzzled into his chest fur with her nose. Not noticing the redness that appeared on his cheeks from the physical contact.

“Yes. A wonderful plan.”

It took less time than anticipated for Nocturnus and Mokata to arrive at the Western Station. What was supposed to be an hour and a half ride turned out to only be half that original time, and before the duo knew it, they were at their planned stop. While getting off the train, they happened to notice none of the other riders were getting off along with them. Possibly because this wasn’t their stop, or because they didn’t want to get closer to Rosière anymore than they needed to. Judging by the countless glares the Mokata and Nocturnus received - the conductor included - it was obviously the latter.

After the train departed, the duo proceeded to make their way down the path leading to the kingdom. They soon found themselves in the Western Titanic Forest, containing trees big and tall enough to conceal all outside of it. Outranking any other trees ever seen by the mortal eye. Save for the ones in the Southwestern Forbidden Jungle. In spite of their abnormal size, they were wide apart enough for moonlight to shine through, helping the duo navigate their way through the forest. It didn’t make the scenario any less nerve-wracking, and Mokata was sure to make it known.

“Gosh, these trees are big,” The pegasus muttered softly, taking in the size of the woody plants. “I’ve seen a lot of big trees before, but… these are just impossibly big.”

“You’re telling me,” Nocturnus agreed, his eyes softly glowing as he kept them on the trail in front of them. “Rumors from creatures who went to the Undiscovered West say life here was unlike anything they’ve ever seen. From the trees to the animals, even the weather. None of it was like the other places they went to. My parents even mentioned it was like they were in the Everfree Forest. Only less unnatural and somewhat more predictable.”

“Whoever said those things were definitely not exaggerating,” Mokata said, huddling close to her bat-winged companion. “It really does feel like I’m inside the Everfree Forest. And with how big these trees are, I feel like an ant crawling along the ground.”

“No surprise here,” Nocturnus added, tufted ears pinned back. "It’s no wonder this place is referred to as the Forest Of Titans. It definitely lives up to its name in that aspect. I wonder how the animals are able to survive in such a place.”

“If they’re anything like the ones in the Everfree, it would have to be in ways similar to theirs,” Mokata contemplated. “Let’s just hope we don’t end up running into them before we reach the kingdom. Now that’d be really bad.”

“Would you by any chance be implying to the nocturnal creatures we sometimes watch and read about together?”

Mokata nodded. “Yes. Depending on what species they are and how much they can adapt to environments, some of them may be here in the Titan Forest. Many animals here settle quite well in different areas and make those places their own. I wouldn’t be surprised if the ones my sister takes care of live in this part of Equestria. Even the rare ones.”

“Good point,” Nocturnus acknowledged, scanning the trees. “While I feel we don’t have anything to worry about, we should still be on guard. Holiday trip or not, we’re still in a wild area. We won’t be completely safe unless we make it to the Rosière. Until then, let’s keep a lookout. That way neither of us will get ambushed. Or worse...”

A twig snapping suddenly stabbed through the silence of the forest, freezing the duo where they stood. Both equines looked around in the clearing, not daring to move from the path they were on unless they get attacked. Seconds later, growling suddenly emitted from within the shadows, sending Nocturnus and Mokata on high alert.

“N-Nocturnus... D-Did you hear that? I could’ve sworn there was a growl just now…”

“I did.” Came the thestral’s more leveled, yet apprehensive reply. He put a wing in front of the pegasus, oblivious to the redness on her face at the protective action. “That was definitely growling I heard just now. And it is definitely not a dog.”

“W-what could it be then?” Mokata asked, her legs shaking like a newborn baby trying to find its footing. “Is it a Grizzly Bear? A Mountain Lion? O-or a Western Cheetah?”

As if to say it was none of these, the creature made itself known, its piercing yellow eyes being the first thing the duo saw. Slowly, it emerged from the woods, its appearance mostly obscured thanks to the shadows and the darkness of its mangled black fur. The closer it approached, the more Nocturnus and Mokata were able to make it out, from its muzzle to its furry floppy ears. It wasn’t until the creature’s unnaturally long tail emerged from behind it did the Crusaders realize what it was.

“Church Grim…” Both flyers breathed simultaneously.

Having now been identified, the creature stopped just feet away from the duo. It tilted its head, eyes holding what looked to be curious as it silently inspected the thestral and pegasus. Against its better judgment, it took a step towards them, making them flinch and back up from it. Pulling himself together, Nocturnus strengthened his stance as he bared his fangs. A reptilian hiss left his mouth as his eyes gave a brief flash of red, making the black canine back up from them.

“Nyx’s Slashing Daggers… what is a church grim doing here?!” Nocturnus asked softly, mainly to himself.

“I… I don’t know.” Mokata replied, Nocturnus’s tail wrapping around her as if it was a lifeline for a hospital patient. “I didn’t think we’d be running into one now of all times! I thought they could resign in places like churches, graveyards, and cemeteries where they’re supposed to act as guard dogs for the deceased?!”

“They do, but they do have their moments. More often than not, you can expect to see a church grim in places like those. Mainly because they want the resting places of the dead to not be vandalized.” Nocturnus clarified, not taking his eyes off the dog. “Although, there have been incidents where church grims get restless. When that happens, they leave their guard spots and run around the town. It doesn’t really bother the Rosière residents, since the church grims usually come back afterward. Despite this, church grims have been known to escape and get lost in the Western Forest, which results in search parties looking for them. Mainly because they’re afraid the church grims may happen upon lands where they’re not common.”

“Really?” Mokata said, feeling her fear fade a bit. “So, you think that this one must’ve gotten restless and decided that it wanted to go out on its own and, um… blow off some steam?”

“Most likely. It’s the only reason I think of as to why it’s here.” Nocturnus replied, sounding very sure of himself. “It would d be best for us to be careful around this one regardless. He may be one dog, but we shouldn’t take him lightly due to that fact. Church Grims are supernatural creatures for a reason, and the last thing that I want is for us to end up as dog chow.”

“That is true,” Mokata nodded, gulping. “Unless… we can make it not attack us?”

One of Nocturnus's ears turned back to listen to his friend. “What do you mean?”

The pegasus took a step away from the thestral. "What if… I try to befriend it. Show it that we’re not a threat?”

“Seriously?” Nocturnus asked, turning his head to completely face her. “You’re going to try to tame it? Why would you do that?”

Mokata answered that question with one of her own. “Why wouldn’t I? You did say they’re not like normal animals, right? He poses a greater danger than a normal dog or wild beast. Shouldn't that be a good reason to make this church grim see us as companions instead of enemies?”

“W-well… I guess that makes sense.” Nocturnus admitted, somewhat seeing the logic in Mokata’s words. “But do you really think you can befriend a church grim of things? Especially given just what they’re capable of?”

It wasn’t that Nocturnus didn’t believe that Mokata couldn’t succeed. He just found it surprising she’d try to do the same with a dog more brutal than even the biggest pack of wolves. If there was one thing Nocturnus knew about the church grims, it was that they were powerful. To the point where it could’ve taken on a whole army of Timberwolves, solo, and win. From its dagger-like claws, serrated canine teeth, and otherworldly jaw power, the church grim was a force to be reckoned with. And not just when it came to animals, something that they tended to come into contact with more than sentient beings.

One aspect that was most terrifying about them, however, was the fact that they were able to wield fire. Something they sometimes used against any who dared to disrupt the eternal slumber of the dearly departed. With a single breath, the church grims could set anyone into a flailing fiery mess, and no amount of water could extinguish it. The only way the flames, and pain, would stop was if the canine willed it before nothing of the victim remained. While Nocturnus doubted the church grim would go that far, he was skeptical about letting Mokata handle this. If only due to the huge risk of her being turned into a pile of ashes.

“No, I don’t think so,” Mokata admitted rather bluntly. “But that doesn’t mean I shouldn’t try. If it’ll save the both of us from becoming food for him, then it’s worth it. Plus, if it does work, I’ll even get more experience in handling animals that even I’ve never seen before!”

“Only you would see that as beneficial,” Nocturnus deadpanned. “Just try to be careful, okay? I really don’t wanna have this trip end with me coming back to Ponyville and giving Fluttershy a vase full of your ashes.”

Mokata giggled in amusement. “It’s alright Nocturnus. I’m not the only one who has a weapon tucked away in their arsenal.” She tapped at the roseray hanging from her neck as the slitted eye glowed in response. “And even if he acts up, I won’t even have to use this to… reign… him in…”

“What is it?” Nocturnus asked, noticing the look of surprise on his friend’s face.

“Nocturnus…” She whispered, her surprised face matching the tone in her voice. “The church grim! Look at his neck!”

“What? What about his-” Nocturnus stopped in his question as he looked where Mokata was pointing. Noticing something that he didn’t see earlier, he squinted his eyes and took a good look at where the church grim’s neck was. Though it was faint, he could make out the outlines of what looked to be a collar with a diamond-shaped scarlet crystal attached to it.

“No way… A collar?” Nocturnus muttered as realization dawned on him. “What the heck is a collar doing on a church grim's neck?”

“I’m not really sure,” Mokata replied, stepping a bit closer to the church grim to get a better look. “It doesn’t have a name on it. And I don’t see one carved onto the diamond hanging from it either. Could it be etched onto the collar itself?”

“Maybe... it would be the only explanation as to why we don’t see it. Not all collars are made in the same way for pets,” Nocturnus replied, tilting his head a bit. “Do you think he could belong to someone in the Blood Moon Kingdom?”

“Most likely. It’s the only explanation as to why he even has one in the first place. I’ve hardly ever seen any dog that didn’t have collars on them. Unless they were strays my sister picked up from off the streets and kept until they had new homes,” Mokata replied, slowly reaching out to touch the collar. “I can say neither of us has found a lost dog like this. Even if they happen to have collars on them.”

“Now that’s something not hard to believe,” Nocturnus replied, his voice holding the slightest bit of sarcasm. “Whether we can see his name or not, this church grim definitely has a master. And chances are they’re looking for him right now. The question is… where are they?”

“Rylko!”

Once again, Nocturnus and Mokata found themselves turning rock-solid as the new voice echoed throughout the clearing. Both of them, along with the church grim, looked around, trying to see who it was that had called out the name. Hoofsteps beating the ground entered their ears, telling them that someone was coming their way. And fast.

"You heard that too right Noctie?” Mokata asked sounding less nervous than when the church grim appeared. “Someone was shouting!”

“Yeah, and they're coming this way too,” Nocturnus said, his ears swiveling as the hoofsteps flew into his ears.

“I heard her say, Rylko just now. Do you think it could be the church grim’s owner?” Mokata nodded, looking back at the now alert whip-tailed dog.

“Something tells me it is,” Nocturnus replied, watching as the church grim took a step to the side. “Don’t make any sudden movements, Mokata. We don’t know what kind of creature his owner is. She may think we’re here to hurt him, so we should try to look as non-threatening as we possibly can.”

“Good idea,” Mokata agreed, pressing herself up against the bat pony.

Right at that moment, the figure shouting from earlier emerged from the woods. It was a unicorn with a luscious flowing blue mane and a pelt so white that she could’ve been a ghost. Her sugar pink eyes scanned the clearing, not yet seeing the other two equines in front of her thanks to the church grim. When she saw the collared dog in front of her, however, her face broke out in relief.

“Rylko! There you are!” She said, a thick accent coating her words like cotton candy on a paper cone. She trotted over to the canine as he turned to face her, barking happily. “Crimson Moons of Selene I have been looking all over this bloody forest for you! I cannot believe you got away from me again! Do you have any idea how worried sick I was?!”

“Looks like you were right Nocturnus,” Mokata commented, unable to keep herself from smiling at the sweet interaction. “It looks like this mare is this church grim’s owner.”

“Rylko, Mokata.” Nocturnus gently chided, keeping his eyes on the unknown mare. “The dog has a name. It was just said a few moments ago.”

Mokata paused as she remembered the dog’s name. “Oh, right… I’m sorry. I guess I was so caught off guard by the mare coming that I wasn’t able to catch it.”

“It’s alright. Just be sure to call him by that if you’re asked,” Nocturnus whispered, patting the pegasus’s head. “That way you’ll have a bigger chance of not getting the blood drained out of you like a box of apple juice.”

“D-dully noted,” Mokata squeaked, nodding just as the unicorn mare finally took notice of them.

“Well, this is a surprise,” The mare murmured, sounding both surprised and delighted at the new arrivals. “I certainly was not expecting to see ponies in the Western Woods. Are the two of you visitors here?”

Nocturnus nodded, doing his best to not look away from the unicorn’s beautiful eyes. “Erm, yes ma’am. We have just arrived here in the Undiscovered West. We’re on our way to the Rosière Kingdom right now.” He looked at the dog, whose body language was more relaxed than before. “Is, um… is he your pet?”

“Yes, dear. He is,” The mare replied, rubbing the canine’s head as if he was a puppy. “He is my personal companion and dear friend! I am sorry you had to run into him like this at such a late hour. Rylko did not do anything to you two, did he?”

"Not at all!” Mokata assured with her hooves in the air. “He didn’t try to hurt us or anything. We actually became aware of his presence first instead of him. So we were more or less prepared for if he would attack us. Although we weren’t really expecting to run into a church grim here of all places.”

The other mare chuckled. “I cannot blame you for thinking this. Usually, these big baddies roam around inside the walls of Rosière. Either interacting with the civilians or with their packmates. Not many leave often, but when they do, it can be quite a hassle bringing them back.” She wrapped a foreleg around the church grim’s neck. “As you can see.”

“I can only imagine,” Nocturnus laughed, seeing that his explanation from earlier about church grims was spot on.

“Oh! I am so sorry, how rude of me! Here I am talking your ears off about my big black fluffy fire-breather and I didn’t even tell you who I am,” The mare said, shaking her head while laughing mirthfully. “I am Clemente. Proud member of the most elusive and secretive nation to dot the equestrian map. Pleased to make your acquaintance~.”

“Hello, Clemente! I’m Mokata Rosario!” Mokata said kindly, giving a bow to the seemingly older mare. Grabbing at Nocturnus’s foreleg, she leaned into him while rubbing his hoof, “This is my friend, Nocturnus Yakōsei! Both of us are residents of the Equestrian Empire in the East! It’s nice to meet you too!”

“Nocturnus and Mokata hm? Now those are wonderful names. Whoever gave them to you had an excellent idea of what they were doing,” Clemente commented as both equines blushed hard. “So what brings you two here? It is not very often that we get visitors to our land. Did you come to do some sightseeing yourselves?”

“Something along those lines,” Nocturnus replied hesitantly, face reddening at the way Mokata was clinging to him. “I was told there was going to be a festival happening down here. Mokata heard about it from me afterward and we both decide to come here because we wanted to participate in the festivities.”

“You are here for the Pink Moon Festival?!” Clemente gasped, her eyes sparkling brighter than holiday lights. “Oh my! That is amazing! Creatures from other places coming to mingle in one of two of our most sacred celebrations! I don’t think I can think of anything more wonderful than that!”

“Neither can we...” Nocturnus agreed bashfully, running a mountain blue hoof down his blue-highlighted mane. “Are you going there too Clemente?”

“I most certainly am!” Clemente replied, her leonine tail whipping with excitement. “If there’s one thing I wouldn’t miss for anything, it is the Pink Moon Festival! One of my two favorite holidays to exist! The two of you will love it! This I promise you!”

“From how happy you are about it, it looks like we will.” Nocturnus laughed, finding the mare’s enthusiasm cute. “I forgot to mention this, but this is actually our first time at Rosière. We’re not sure where to go our way in there. Let alone where the Pink Moon Festival will be held. If it’s not any trouble, do you mind showing us around? At least until the festival starts?”

“Well of course darling~! It’s always a pleasure to have new faces coming to our home! Even if it is less rare for others!” Clemente agreed, flashing both equines a smile so swooning that their cheeks burned hotter than cocoa. Reaching out with a white hoof, she tugged Rylko’s collar, and he turned until his tail was facing the due. “Come! Rylko and I will take you over there right away!”

“Wait, what?” Nocturnus asked, taken aback. “You’re gonna take us there… on him?”

"Yes! Flightless vampires sometimes use the church grims to get around,” Clemente explained eagerly. “They are fast and make great sources of transportation! My little Rylko is no exception! He will get you over to where you two wanna go in no time!”

“Um… okay, then. If you say so,” Mokata said, looking at Nocturnus for a moment before slowly approaching the black canine. “A-are you sure he’s not gonna bite us?”

“Dear, if Rylko wanted to do either of those things, he would’ve done that the second he saw you in these woods.” Clemente pointed out as the trio set themselves upon the canine’s back. “He only does that if he feels those that he meets are those who I wouldn’t want around me. He can still be sweet when he wants to be. And judging from how you do not look like Stag Mooses that have been torn apart by a Cave Bear, he certainly likes you two.”

“I wouldn’t say that he liked us. More like he was curious of us after nearly scaring the cutie marks off of us,” Nocturnus murmured, ears twitching as Mokata hugged him from behind. “But if you want to count that as liking us, then I guess that’s fine.”

“As if I was going to accept anything less when it comes to my big black teddy bear.” Clemente giggled, flashing the duo a sly smile. “Make sure to hold on as tight as you can! He will throw you off like a guanaco would a puma if you don’t!”

“Like a whaAAAH?!” Nocturnus asked, only to scream as Rylko suddenly leaped into the air. With an echoing bark, he took off down the forest path. All while a screaming Nocturnus and Mokata held on for dear life.

Clemente and Rylko managed to get Mokata and Nocturnus to Rosière quickly thanks to the latter’s unnatural speed. Even with that, it didn’t make the ride any easier. Mainly for Nocturnus, who felt like he was going to be sicker than a tumor-filled dog. He did his best to hold in his need to barf, not wanting to ruin the ride for the ones enjoying it. Before they knew it, the quartet was at the gates of the kingdom, which were as black as the walls surrounding it. Only when he was a good distance away from them did Nocturnus empty the contents of his stomach. All the while, Mokata comforted him while Clemente patiently waited while standing to the side.

Once that was over, the quartet entered the kingdom, greeted with a civilization beautiful beyond comparison. Buildings stood tall and made for perfection, looking to be for only the highest-ranking of nobles. Decorations dotted the city, ranging from gothic paintings, carved sculptures, crafted items, and even smiling lanterns. All looked like they were made explicitly for Nightmare Night despite evidence suggesting otherwise. In the center stood the castle, its obsidian frame dwarfing even the western mountains in all their menacing glory.

“Here we are darlings!” Clemente exclaimed, standing in front of the duo as she held her forelegs out. “Welcome to the Vampire Kingdom of Rosière! Our proud nation of the Undiscovered West!”

“Wow…! It’s so pretty! I don’t think I’ve ever been in a nation that’s this beautiful!” Mokata gushed, stars twinkling in her eyes like a bedroom nightlight. “I knew it would look amazing, but I wasn’t expecting something like this!”

“Forget how it looks! Look at the size of it! It’s got to be the biggest capital I’ve ever seen! Even the Myskia Kingdom where Queen Luna lives is smaller than this!” Nocturnus shouted, looking to be in even more awe than Mokata was. “You really live here Clemente?”

Clemente nodded proudly. “Absolutely Nocturnus! I have lived here practically my whole life! And it is the best home that I could ever ask for! I am not the only one who thinks so too!”

“Judging from how the other residents are behaving, I think can see why they would,” Nocturnus commented, watching the vampires roaming the streets. Some thestrals, sphinxes, diamond dogs, and even kitsunes were among them, but it was hard to tell due to how crowded it was. “I have to admit, I never thought I’d be in a nation housing vampires. Of all the things I expected to see in my life, this was at the bottom. I guess life is full of surprises in its own way.”

“It is understandable why you would think that darling,” Clemente said, scratching Rylko's chin as he rubbed up against her. "Vampires have been a thing of fiction for as long as we have been made as such. For us to not only appear out of thin air but have a society of our own? I cannot think of anyone in your position who wouldn’t be shocked about that. Good thing that Queen Ambrosia and King Ambrogino made the peace treaty with the Equestrian Emperors ten years ago, hm?”

“Oh yes! It is!” Mokata replied, not noticing the shiver Nocturnus gave. “It’s always horrible when kingdoms have to go to war and lose so many lives in the process. I get so happy when both sides put their differences aside and look toward a brighter future. Right, Nocturnus?”

“Hm? Oh y-yeah, totally,” Nocturnus said, giving a weak smile as he rubbed one of his shoulders. Clemente, who was fussing over her church grim, took notice of this action and felt her curiosity and concern peak.

“Nocturnus?” The vampiress asked softly, sounding like a mother worried over her potentially bullied child. “Is there something the matter dear?”

“Oh, no. Nothing is wrong Clemente,” Nocturnus replied, struggling to make eye contact with the mare. “I got a little nervous when you mentioned your King and Queen.” In a tone so low not even Rylko could hear him, he muttered, “Especially the latter…”

“Why is that?” Clemente asked, her head tilting to the side as Mokata frowned at him. Before the thestral could reply, her eyes lit up as a thought entered her head. “Are you worried they may take your presence the wrong way? You do not have anything to worry about if that’s it. King Ambrogino and Queen Ambrosia are both so kind and sweet and they love it when other creatures come to visit their land. I’m sure they’ll love to meet you and Mokata tonight!”

“That’s not what I’m talking about,” Nocturnus said, shaking his head. “I don’t doubt the meeting will go well. And I’m sure I’ll have a nice time meeting them both and have lots of fun.” He sighed as he hugged one of his forelegs. “It’s just… the Queen and I did not have a good first meeting.”

Clemente’s ears perked at this statement, as did Rylko himself. “You and the Queen… have met before?”

“In their own way,” Mokata said softly, rubbing Nocturnus’s shoulder. “See, Nocturnus and Queen Ambrosia had a rather… terrifying meeting some years prior. It was back when we were foals that Nocturnus, me, and some friends of ours met her for the first time. Except it wasn’t just her. We don’t really like talking about it, but...”

“You would not happen to be talking about the Summer Sun Blood Moon Invasion twelve years ago would you?” Clemente asked tentatively, to which both Crusaders stared at her. “Yes, my darlings. Many here know of that incident. Our Queen kidnapping a group of children and keeping them hostages in the Everfree Forest. As well as nine brave warriors going to save them and prevent our Queen from blanketing the Equestrian Empire in blood after being on the moon for centuries.”

“Oh… wow. I uh, wasn’t expecting that,” Nocturnus said dumbly, the vampiress’s words slowly sinking in. “How many know about that?”

“Only as many that were there to hear about it from the King and Queen themselves. I’m sure those that were there told their friends and family of the Queen’s misdeeds and repeated the same thing going onward,” Clemente explained, giving both ponies a look softer than a baby blanket. “In any case, I am sorry you went through something so traumatizing. It had to have been terrifying for you and whoever was there with you.”

Mokata shook her head. “There’s no need for an apology Clemente. You couldn’t have known what happened that day or how it affected me and Nocturnus.” She smiled as she hugged Nocturnus with her wing, oblivious to the heat that appeared on his cheeks. “We moved on and put it behind us. None of us hold ill will towards your Queen, so you don’t need to worry about us hating her at all.”

“Mokata’s right.” Nocturnus nodded. “While scary, it’s not something that bothers us anymore. Both of us took the steps needed to move past it and we’re doing much better. I am nervous, but I do want to see her again. If only so we could do our meeting properly this time.”

“Really? Well, that is just splendid!” Clemente said, relief flashing into her pink eyes. “I am so happy you have forgiven our beloved Queen for the trouble she’s caused you! It'd be a pity if you didn't, given the work she’s done to make amends with your rulers. This is bound to make the festival so much better for her! I just know it!”

“We’re sure it will,” Mokata nodded in agreement. Before any of them could say anything else, a grumbling sound wormed its way into the warm atmosphere. Both mare’s eyes - Rylko’s included - turned to see a red-faced Nocturnus, looking like a teenager who just got caught reading hentai.

“Uh-oh! It looks like some little fledgling is getting hungry~,” Clemente cooed sweetly. “Are you feeling hungry Nocturnus?”

“You did hear my stomach just now didn’t you?” Nocturnus asked, staring at the mare with half-lidded eyes. “No stomach makes a sound like that unless it needs to be filled. Thanks to that ride we had, it’s a lot more aggravated than usual. And I think we all know whose fault that is.”

“Well, I did say the ride was going to be bumpy before you decided to join me on Rylko. You cannot get on my case for warning you,” Clemente reiterated, rubbing the top of her church grim’s head. “On the other hoof, I could have had Rylko slow down somewhat so you wouldn’t feel like throwing up your lunch. I suppose you being sick from that falls on my shoulders.”

"I have to agree with Nocturnus on this one, Clemente,” Mokata said, sounding like she didn’t want to agree with her friend despite doing so anyway. “You made Nocturnus pretty sick while you were taking us through the Titan Forest. It would’ve ended better for us if you had Rylko slow down. At least a little bit…”

“Well then, allow me to make it up to you,” Clemente offered, holding her hoof out as Rylko barked next to her. “There is this wonderful café not too far away on the east side of the capital. You can get whatever you want so you can replace the food you lost from our rather rigorous ride. Do not worry about the payment either. It is on the house tonight! And I am not taking no for an answer!”

“If that’s what you wanna do, then who are we to stop you?” Nocturnus said with a shrug. “After the regurgitation session I went through, I am more than ready to help my aching stomach by replacing the food it so undeservingly lost. And make sure it actually stays inside this time.”

“Alright, it’s settled!” Clemente said, turning and ushering the duo with her tail. “Right this way my lovelies! I will lead you both straight to your salvation! I'll even help you guys find an inn to stay at for the night if that is what you would like!”

“That would be very helpful,” Mokata nodded, a thankful smile spreading to her muzzle. “With how long the festival will be, I don’t think me and Nocturnus will have it in us to go home straight away. We planned to make the most of our visit, so we should see what the inns are like too, right?”

Clemente giggled melodically. “Yes, darling. It does.”

Nation Of Folklore Part 2

As tense as the start of it was, Nocturnus and Mokata found themselves greatly enjoying their trip. After going to eat in a nearby café, Clemente proceeded to act as their chaperone for the nation they were exploring. For the entire time that the vampiress was with them, they were graced with one sight after another. Lit buildings greeted their eyes, most coming in the form of stores, restaurants, and houses around them. On the streets, stands stood, holding valuables and food for anyone who wanted to sample. Nocturnus and Mokata almost gave in to the temptation but managed to hold back. Something that Clemente took great amusement in watching take place in front of her.

Interesting as they were in their own right, it was the residents that truly stood out. Vampires made up much of the population, but there were also creatures Mokata and Nocturnus weren't expecting to see. Diamond Dogs banded in groups, interacting in ways that were much like wolves and dogs. Sphinxes filled the skies, clutching onto brooms as their hats, cloaks, and manes billowed in the wind. Vixens strutted as they sultrily weaved through the crowds, eyeing the vampires around them with lustful bedroom eyes. Some did end up stopping to converse with Mokata and Nocturnus, with a few suspicious as to why they were inside their elusive home. Luckily, Clemente was there to diffuse it, and the duo was left alone as fast as they were confronted.

One hour later, Clemente ended the chaperoning, feeling she had shown the duo enough for the time being. Before she left, the vampiress helped them find a hotel so they could rest and stay the night once the festival was over. It didn’t take long to find one, and Mokata and Nocturnus took it upon themselves to get their own room with their own bits. Once they got their room key, the duo went to their designated hotel room to rest up for the upcoming festival. As well as have a little private time for themselves.

Nocturnus let out a long sigh as he fell on the soft mattress of the hotel’s bed, bat wings sprawled out as his mane scattered in all directions. His stetson - still sitting upon his head - flattened under its weight, but it didn’t really bother him. The bed provided him plenty of relaxation so he hardly felt his hat pressing against the back of his skull. Beside him, Mokata sat, watching her foalhood friend get himself comfortable.

“Gleaming fangs of Nyx! What a tour that was!” Nocturnus exclaimed. “I can’t believe how much stuff and how many other creatures there were in here. Who knew such a place like this could contain so much at once?”

“I agree. That was quite the adventure around the capital,” Mokata nodded. “I’ve never seen such a unique race before in my life. It was prepared to see the vampires in a more realistic setting. But to see them living like us? I’m amazed I didn’t get scared by them.”

“I’m amazed you didn’t freak out and faint by seeing just one of them,” Nocturnus added as he sat up. “I mean, I can understand not being afraid of the other thestrals and sphinxes. I can even understand being okay with the diamond dogs and kitsunes. But I’m surprised you kept your cool around the vampires given how scary they looked.”

"I did feel nervous when they greeted us, and they did look pretty scary,” Mokata murmured, blushing while facing away from the stallion. “But… I didn’t feel the least bit scared of them. I didn’t feel any malice coming from them and... I don’t know why.”

“It may be because of your roseray,” Nocturnus guessed. “Maybe that was the reason they didn’t give you flack. I’ve seen a few ponies wearing it around the city. So that may be partially why they treated you so nicely.”

Mokata laughed. “I think there may be more to it than me having powers like theirs. They’re probably afraid I’m going to, um… drain them of their life fluids and leave them looking like mummies. Like how the sphinxes over in the Shimmering Sands make their pride members look whenever they pass on. I doubt they'll manage to push me to that point though.”

“Given how much of a little bunny you are a lot of the time, that chance is pretty low,” Nocturnus teased. “Speaking of being treated nicely, I noticed the vampiresses were kind of… looking at me funny. Like they wanted to have their way with me or something.”

“I noticed too,” Mokata nodded, recalling how flirtatious and sensual some of the vampiresses behaved when meeting Nocturnus. “You did mention how your Mom and Dad told you that the vampires took a particular interest in them while they were here. Do you think it may be because you’re a thestral?”

“I don’t think so. It felt more like they were trying their darndest to get me into bed and ride me until Nyx took my soul,” Nocturnus replied mildly, causing a blush to erupt on Mokata’s face like an out-of-control volcano. “As for the stallions, they were acting really friendly towards me. Like I was a longtime friend or something, but I think that’s because of your earlier point. I guess it does make sense since we can pretty much do what they can do.” His ear flicked as he looked at the ceiling. “I wonder if that’s how the hosts will act when they finally meet us…”

A soft frown stretched down Mokata’s muzzle at her friend’s apprehensiveness in seeing Queen Ambrosia. Neither of them was lying when they told Clemente that they had a very unpleasant meeting with the Blood Moon Matriarch. It was during the Summer Sun Celebration twelve years ago - on the Fourth of July - that they met their future ally. Nocturnus and his fellow crusaders were at the Town Square with their sisters in the once small town when it happened. Ambrosia’s attack came out of nowhere, giving every pony there the mother of all jump scares. Including Empress Elianna, Amalthea, and Zoe themselves, who were the biggest witness to the carnage. Miraculously it didn’t end in casualties, and everypony was still alive despite the devastation of the Town Square. How that managed to not happen was something that, even to this day, Nocturnus still could not figure out.

In the wake of witnessing such a traumatizingly graphic ordeal, Nocturnus and his friends just happened to be discovered by the newly recrowned Vampire Queen. She then proceeded to kidnap the Crusaders, taking them from the Town Square and to the Everfree Forest. What followed afterward was a whole fourteen hours of, fear, terror, and seeing every single creature ever feared come to life to ravage your new home. As well as spending time with a dagger-fanged mistress while listening to her plans about turning Equestria into a land of gore and horror. Mokata and Nocturnus were so happy when their sisters, their friends, and the Equestrian Empresses came to save them, but not before having a brutal fight with the nocturnal monarch. Over the last decade, they managed to heal from it, but they still had flashbacks every now and again.

“If they’re anything like the other residents, then they’re likely to treat you like their subjects,” Mokata said, shifting on the bed and lying next to the thestral. “Clemente did the same with us the entire time we were with her. What’s to say the Queen and King won’t be the same way? For all we know, they may be just as anxious to meet us as you are them.”

“Oh, I don’t doubt that. Trust me,” Nocturnus assured, looking out a nearby window. “I may be petrified of Queen Ambrosia, but I’m not stupid enough to think that she isn’t feeling any guilt and regret over what she had done. If I were in her shoes, I know I would not be able to live with myself. I’d rather let another thestral rip my own throat out than put a bunch of kids through the Tartarus that we did.”

“All the more reason to be so scared about seeing her again,” Mokata said, stroking the stallion’s black mane. “I’m not saying the meeting between you two won’t be awkward, but that doesn’t mean it’s going to be bad. As you said, Queen Ambrosia surely regrets what she did. It wouldn’t make sense to go through all of this trouble to bring peace between Equestria and the Western Kingdom if she didn’t. Why even do this in the first place if that wasn’t the case?”

“Other than probably receiving a stake straight to the heart, and having her kingdom being turned to rumble, nothing really,” Nocturnus replied, a hoof coming to rub at his chest.

“Exactly,” Mokata nodded, moving closer to Nocturnus and putting a hoof on his. “Everything is going to be alright. We had a horrible past with Ambrosia, but now’s the perfect chance to make it into something better. She did it with practically all of Equestria, so she should be willing to do the same for us.”

“I know. I guess I’m just nervous is all,” Nocturnus nodded, his head plopping down on the mattress. “Whatever happens, we’re here now, and we’ll be seeing the rulers anyway. We should at least try to get civil and the Pink Moon Festival is a good place to start. I just hope to Nyx it’ll go well and doesn’t get ruined for everyone there.”

“You and me both,” Mokata agreed, rubbing the thestral’s back while pressing her cheek against his. Sighing, she shifted off the bed and went towards the bathroom. “I’m going to go use the bathroom and get ready for the festival. I’ll let you know when I’m done so you can freshen up.”

“Take your time. I’m not in any rush,” Nocturnus said with a nonchalant hoof wave. “And thanks for the talk. It really helped me become more prepared for seeing the King and Queen.”

Mokata flashed him a heart-melting smile. “Of course, Noctie. What are friends for?”

With those words, the gentle pegasus went into the hotel bathroom, leaving Nocturnus to be situated in the comforts of their hotel bed. Had she looked behind her again, Mokata would’ve seen the thestral staring at her backside, and the magma-hot blush on his stormy grey cheeks.

Despite its length, the chaperoning left Mokata and Nocturnus with enough time to freshen up for the festival. It went a little longer than necessary, with Mokata going a bit of the extra mile to look presentable. Nocturnus wasn’t bothered by it since he didn’t have much that he needed to fix himself. Once or twice, the thestral found himself looking at certain parts of Mokata’s body, turning away when she turned to him. She asked what was wrong and he just said that he was feeling just a little bit nervous. He briefly wondered if she knew he was staring, but she didn’t make any mention of it at all. It was almost as if Mokata was letting him stare despite standing just right next to him.

Once finished, the duo exited their hotel for the spot where the festival was said to begin. From what Clemente said, the starting spot would be at an obelisk fountain in the southern section of the city. No sooner did they get there were they greeted with the sight of a crowd surrounding the fountain. At the center was a huge statue of a bat-winged vampiress, rearing tall and proud in front of its viewers. Decorations covered it down to its edges where the water lay, sparkling in the moonlight. In front of it, a stand stood, made for the rulers when they eventually made their appearance.

“Damn, this is a huge crowd. I didn’t think that it would be at the festival,” Nocturnus said, looking about at the crowd bunched like a giant flock of seabirds. “I knew that a lot of creatures would be here, but this is something else.”

“Me too. I’ve never seen one this big before. Not even the crowd at the Summer Sun Celebration twelve years ago was this large,” Mokata nodded, keeping herself close to Nocturnus so as to not get separated from her friend. “Everyone must be really excited for the festival if they’re coming in such a large amount.”

“Considering that the Queen was absent for a substantial amount of time, I’m speculating that this festival was partially done to help her make up for the lost time,” Nocturnus contemplated, swiftly squeezing his way through the crowd. “And I have the strong feeling that the others before this were like this for that particular reason.”

“If that’s true, then it looks like the kingdom is in for a lot of celebrations in the upcoming years,” Mokata murmured, moving past a diamond dog as she stepped over his tail. “Everyone determined to help her properly live out the centuries she didn’t get to live out. It’s the only way to explain why the atmosphere feels so light. The only other time I’ve seen a get-together like this was when Queen Luna was given that party two months after her return.”

“You mean the one where the Myskia Thestrals celebrated their Lunar Queen coming back after what happened at our first Summer Sun Celebration?” Nocturnus asked as his mind brought the memories back to him. “I remember. You, me, the other crusaders, and our sisters got personal invites from Queen Luna herself saying we could go there. Now that was amazing…”

Mokata smiled fondly. “I can’t recall a time when I had that much fun! The thestrals there were so sweet, and their food was so good! I can even remember the bats they had there that they let us play with! They were so adorable!!"

“No arguments here,” Nocturnus murmured, feeling his own face going pink at recalling how he and Mokata played with the Myskia Bats. “I don’t think we’re gonna be seeing any bats in the festival, but that's fine. It’ll still be more fun than it would’ve been if I had come alone.”

“I feel the same way,” Mokata said warmly, taking one of Nocturnus’s forelegs in her grasp. “I’m glad I decided to come here with you tonight Nocturnus. I really am. I don’t think I can think of a more perfect moment than this one.”

“Right back at you Mokata…” Nocturnus said bashfully, doing his best not to go red from the pegasus’s physical affection. “I know I said it before, happy you accepted my offer to go with me to Rosière. I thought I’d be alone tonight since my family didn’t have any plans with me.”

He relaxed as he opened one of his wings, letting it cover Mokata’s back like a winter coat. “But it looks like Nyx wasn’t going to take that lying down. Or I just got incredibly lucky running into Fluttershy when I did. Either way, I’m content with how this played out”

“Me too,” Mokata agreed, pressing her face to Nocturnus’s neck. “Thank you for giving me such a wonderful gift Nocturnus. You really are a such wonderful and amazing friend. You know that?”

“Yeah… I guess I am,” Nocturnus softly breathed, his eyes closing at the sweet scent emitting from the mare’s mane. “I did promise you that I’d make this one of the best nights you ever had, and I intend to keep my word. We did agree that we’d make the most of it while we could anyway. So let’s do just that, so we’ll have a lot of memories to look back on!”

Mokata nodded, looking at Nocturnus with a smile warmer than a campfire. “Of course.”

A bellowing tenor suddenly echoed throughout the streets, filling the ears of those who were close enough to hear it. Mokata and Nocturnus, who were the closest to it, jumped at the sound and turned to where it had come. On the stand, a unicorn stallion could be seen on its booth, levitating a horn in front of his muzzle to show it was him. Like a remote turning off the television, the whole crowd quieted, now given the realization that the festival was officially starting.

“Well that was an unpleasant surprise if I never heard it,” Nocturnus asked after a long minute while rubbing his ears.

“My goodness that tenor was loud! I wasn’t expecting to hear something like that.” Mokata agreed meekly with a wince. “Could that have been a signal of some sort?”

“Probably. It’s the only thing that can explain why everyone went quieter than a flock of bats sleeping in a cave,” Nocturnus guessed, taking notice of the undivided attention the vampires gave to the fountain. “In any case, we should probably stay silent for now. Something tells me we're in for a big introduction.”

As if on cue, the unicorn vampire who had blown the tenor earlier walked off the stage, allowing another vampire to take his place. Everyone watched as he stopped at the edge, shaking back his slick black mane while taking out a scroll hidden in his armor. Using one of his hooves, he tapped at the microphone on the speaker in front of him, making sure the crowd was paying attention.

“Greetings my fellow Rosière Residents!” He announced, his refined and elegant voice echoing like a wolf’s howl. “I am the honorable Crimson Knight Captain Nicholas! Proud member and leader of the Rosière Royal Guards! I would personally like to welcome you all to the Pink Moon Festival!”

Claps and stomps broke the silence as their owners cheered happily, all their voices drowning out their physical actions. Somewhere in the middle, Nocturnus and Mokata stayed silent, opting to let the Western civilians show their excitement for them. Once it was calm again, and the crusader duo made sure they didn’t go deaf, Nicholas continued his speech.

“Before we proceed, I would just like to say how wonderful it is to see so many faces gracing our kingdom!” He stated levelly, his eyes flickering all across the crowd. “Whether you are civilians who have lived here before, or adventurers coming here for the first time, I welcome you all to our prosperous land! I am not certain how many of you are newcomers but fear not! No danger is to be found in these walls, and you can expect to find nothing warmth and kindness upon every turn!”

‘No danger here huh? I’m not so sure about that, considering I’m surrounded by the creatures that used to haunt me in my sleep.’ Nocturnus thought dryly. ‘Still, I’ll take his word for it. For however long my body is intact anyway.’

“Is there something the matter Nocturnus? You look a little apprehensive there…” Mokata replied, gently brushing her hoof down his mane.

Nocturnus, no longer lost in his nervous train of thought thanks to Mokata’s touch, looked at her with surprise. “Y-yeah, I’m okay. I was just a little caught off guard by what the, er… guard stated. The whole no danger being found here thing...”

“Not the best way of ending the beginning of your introduction into a long-lost nation,” Mokata said, smiling while absently listening to Nicholas continue his speech. “He still meant well, right?”

"In his own way. Let’s just hope he takes some time to work on his speeches in a way that doesn’t make visitors feel like they’re putting one foot in the coffin,” Nocturnus muttered, adjusting his stetson. “After all, there’s no such thing as a true danger-free place.”

“I have a hunch that he’s definitely going to be given a little friendly reminder on that,” Mokata assured, rubbing up against the thestral. “Speaking of speeches, it looks like he’s about to wrap his own up.”

“In just a few moments, you will all witness the glory that is the Pink Moon and partake in one of the Rosière Kingdom’s most ancient celebrations! But first, we have two very special guests partaking in the festival! One that you all know very well!” Nicholas said as he began to conclude his speech. “Ladies and gentlefolk, it is with great pleasure that I introduce to you, civilians and newcomers alike, to our elusive land’s rulers! The bringers of light and darkness! The beautiful, strong, wise, and kind! The protectors of the west, King Ambrogino and Queen Ambrosia!”

With those final words from the guard, the crowd went into another set of cheers even louder than the first. To the point where ringing in the ears would be all but certain for anyone not used to hearing such sounds. Nocturnus and Mokata were feeling it and more, as evidenced by how far the tips of their wings were embedded in where they could hear. Neither of them could blame the citizens though, especially with who was going to be partaking in this celebration that they were already liking. Even so, none of it made the high cheering any less pleasant to hear, regardless of how warm and inviting it sounded. Nocturnus was half tempted to use his Crimson Glare on a few to get them to calm down but refrained from doing so. If not because he didn’t want to ruin the moment for Rosière citizens and the upcoming one. He and Mokata would have to give their ears thoroughly checked back at their hotel later. If they didn’t lose their hearing by the end of the night.

As the whooping finally died down, the Crusaders took notice of two other figures coming in from behind Nicholas. Said guard stepped to the side, allowing them to let their faces and figures be seen by all. Both were dressed in royal robes and crowns fitting of rulers, made in a way that looked to fit their tastes in fashion. As pretty as their clothes were, it was nothing compared to the two vampires themselves. The stallion had a starless night-black mane, and a pelt so red that he looked like an equine-shaped rose. Crystal blue made up his eye color, with the slits helping to add to their sparkling light.

By his side, his beautiful mare stood, holding the same beauty and grace as her king did. Grey made up her pelt to where she looked like a storm ready to burst, with a mane so red it looked to be the color of blood. Her mane color also matched the color of her eyes, which gleamed as if made of the color that made up her mane. While imposing appearance-wise, both crusaders felt the gentleness from underneath the commanding and authoritative auras the rulers emitted. All of which was calming enough to keep them from running like a coyote couple from a wolf pack.

“Epona's Holy Wings…” Mokata whispered, sounding as if the breath was taken from her body. “N-Nocturnus... is that who I'm thinking it is?”

“Yes… it’s Ambrogino, the Rosière Kingdom King.” Nocturnus confirmed, nostrils flaring as their scent wandered into his nose. “And beside him is his wife and the one that used Queen Luna as her host… Queen Ambrosia.”

Anything the friends were going to say to each other was stopped when Ambrogino and Ambrosia walked onto the stage. Nicholas gave them a brief bow before walking over to stand guard at their carriage, letting his majesties do the rest. Upon reaching the booth, Nocturnus and Mokata felt locked in place by the power and beauty oozing from them like sap from a bark-torn tree. It was like staring at two beings responsible for the creation of all life, even though there were twenty-one known ones responsible for that. While neither were gods by any means, it could be undoubtedly said that the ponies looking upon them right now were as close to deities as could be. Regardless of how scary they looked with their switchblade-like teeth and draconic serrated wings.

“Greetings our beautiful subjects. How wonderful it is to see you tonight.” Ambrogino greeted after a brief period of silence. His low and smooth tone slithered from his muzzle like the tongue of a snake, making many females around him blush in response. “It is always such a pleasure to see your faces. I’m so glad you were able to take the time out of your days to see us and celebrate another year of the wonders that is the Pink Moon Festival! We have much planned for tonight as with the ones before that will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable nights you will have!”

Another seat of cheering emerging from the crowd got warm smiles from the King and Queen, helping the newcomers be at ease with their presence. Before Nocturnus and Mokata fell at risk of hearing loss, Ambrosia lifted a hoof that silenced the crowd like a radio cutting off. Briefly glancing at her husband, she watched as he nodded before she took his place on the stand. Looking at the crowd that stood before her eyes, Ambrosia sighed before speaking as well.

“Following my darling Ambrogino, I am also elated we could partake with you during this night. Even if it’s for only a few of them out of the entire year. Minus the festivals,” She stated, her higher voice coming out like a gently flowing river. Laughter drew out from a few in the crowd, to which Ambrosia joined in before continuing. “Regardless of how little I’m able to, it never ceases to make me smile when frolicking with the ones my husband and I watch over each day and night. Now I have a chance to do it once more! To sing! To dance! To eat! To celebrate with my subjects! Something I hope to continue doing for centuries to come!”

“No doubt the people here hope so too since she's their queen,” Nocturnus said to Mokata, taking in the looks of childlike excitement by the civilians. "Don't think I can say the same about the subjects of the past though.”

“Mhm.” Mokata nodded slowly, sympathy shimmering within her eyes while she looked at the jovial Vampire Queen.

Heads held high, Ambrogino and Ambrosia closed their eyes as auras the color of their eyes enveloped their bodies like clouds of mist. It started from beneath their hooves before working up to their heads, with the gemstones on their cloaks gleaming. None of this went unnoticed by Nocturnus and Mokata, who felt they were going to see something mind-blowing.

“We will now move on to festivities! But before we do, allow my wife and I to show our second surprise! One the newcomers will surely come to love!” Ambrogino declared as the crowd looked at them inquisitively. He turned to his wife, who smiled back at him in eagerness at what they were about to do. “Shall we proceed with the opening of the festival, dear Ambrosia?”

Ambrosia giggled, feeling her face go redder than her mane at the warm sensuality in her mate’s voice. “Only if you let me participate with you in it, my dear Ambrogino~.”

Giving a chuckle of his own Ambrogino took position alongside his queen. "Well then...let us begin!”

Faster than the venom of a spitting cobra, the Royal Vampires suddenly turned to the obelisk, wings spread as the gems holding their robes together shined brighter than lamps. With powerful hoof stomps, magic burst from them, going into the carvings of the obelisk. All watched in silent anticipation as the magic went up the stone pillar, glowing as if it were a beast waking from hibernation. Nocturnus and Mokata waited too, expecting to gaze upon something absolutely breathtaking.

“Now our dear subjects! Bear witness to the creation has left many before you on their knees!” Ambrogino announced as he and his wife continued with their task. “Behold, the Pink Moon!”

Seconds after the magic filled the obelisk, it burst from the top, shooting into the air at speeds that barely left the viewers time to blink. It soon stopped in midair, looking like it was well within the stars despite being nowhere near that far away. A sphere soon formed from the tip, growing in size and brightness that made those with sensitive vision turn away, including Nocturnus and Mokata. Something that sounded like a burst came afterward, spreading a thought in the Crusaders that something exploded. Upon feeling nothing, the friends slowly opened their eyes… and were greeted with quite the mentally imprinting sight.

“Mother of Thestrals…” Nocturnus whispered weakly while Mokata fell to her haunches in shock.

Hovering above the awestruck crowd and glowing with the brightness of a thousand stars, was a magically enhanced full moon. It was pink as stated, its color fuller and darker than any color of pink ever found. Small sparks of light twinkled in it, each holding various colors that helped to add to the beauty of it all. Rotations came from the moon as if it wanted all there to see every inch of what the moon had to show. Finishing its touches was a large cloud of magical dust covering the moon, its rosy-pink color wrapping around it like an eggshell around a yolk. As it rotated, the magic dust spread throughout the crowd, letting everyone feel the warmth, passion, and love their leaders had for them.

“And there you have it our dear subjects! I sincerely hope any seeing it for the first time has something beautiful to think back on wherever you end up!” Ambrosia was, reveling in the tear-filled and amazed looks of her citizens. “Now, without further ado… let the Pink Moon Festival, begin!”

For the final time that night, joyful cries and screams of positivity exploded through the festive area, blocking out any sound coming from it. None of it registered with Nocturnus and Mokata, both of whom were still reeling from the surprise the King and Queen displayed. It was only when fireworks suddenly began going off that the Crusaders refocused on everything around them. Seeing how crazy the crowd was getting, Nocturnus took Mokata by the hoof and made them both airborne to keep from getting knocked over. Though they did have to watch out for a few mynxes who nearly ran into them while trying to recover from their shock.

“My goodness! That was beautiful!,” Mokata said breathlessly, holding tightly to Nocturnus’s foreleg. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything like that before!”

“Neither have I. That was the first time I saw something magical used to make something that was so… amazing. The last time I think I witnessed something that incredible was when Twilight made that firework version of her cutie mark during the Myskia Winter Solace Celebration.” Nocturnus agreed, staring back up at the rotating pink moon. “The King and Queen were totally not kidding about what they said earlier. I’m going to be remembering that until the day I join Nyx in her Garden of Shadows.”

“You mean we’re going to remember it until our goddesses take our souls into paradise,” Mokata corrected. “Still, that was a wonderful surprise they showed us. I don’t think I can think of any other way to start a festival. Especially since it’s one supposed to be revolving around vampires.”

“If it didn’t then I doubt this festival would be celebrated at all. Let alone the other one Clemente mentioned,” Nocturnus stated as he gave the pink moon one last glance. “By the way, you think she’s somewhere here in the crowd? She mentioned she was going to be there when the festival began, but I don’t see her anywhere.”

“She might, but the crowd is too big for us to be able to find her. We’ll have to wait until it disperses some before we can do that.” Mokata said tilting her head curiously. “Why do you ask? Were you wanting to talk to Clemente or something?”

“Nah, I was just hoping she didn’t get crushed by the crowd like a runner being trampled by an out-of-control bull. But I get the feeling she'll be just fine,” Nocturnus replied, looking at Mokata with a grin of excitement. “Anyway, I think we’ve done enough gawking! Come on! We have a festival to celebrate!”

Just as the duo imagined, Nocturnus and Mokata found themselves being completely under in the excitement of the Pink Moon Festival. Though to say it happened like that probably would have been a gross understatement due to how much of a high it gave them both. Activities of all kinds could be seen and displayed all over the celebration area among adults and children. From exotic dancing to thrilling game playing, and blood-pumping competitions sure to make someone’s blood rush. Delicious plated food lay in the hooves and paws of the civilians, which the duo had a wonderful time sampling. On top of that, they were even asked for the honor of a dance with some of the participants that had no problem getting red cheeks from them both. While some activities were a bit much, the two Crusaders didn’t let it damper their fun and focused on the ones they could do. Even playing with some of the children in their games; something the Rosière residents found to be quite adorable.

Eventually, Mokata and Nocturnus ran out of energy and were forced to take a breather from the partying. It was a good kind of tired though, and they were far from done with the land they decided to visit. Until they recovered, Nocturnus and Mokata decided to get themselves a full-course meal of the festival's amazing food. Or an all-out buffet thanks to Nocturnus getting more food than he probably should’ve with the bits his sister gave him. It was a pretty pleasant break. Even if it was a bit marred by the loud chattering from the residents.

“My goodness! Slow down Nocturnus! You’re going to choke on your food if you keep eating that fast!” Mokata chastised as she watched her thestral friend stuff his fluffy got. “I know doing those activities worked up an appetite but that doesn’t mean you have to show such a lack of restraint.”

Nocturnus, who was chomping on down a large meaty rib, stopped to look up at a Mokata as she eloquently at her own plate. With impressive neck expansion, he swallowed the food stuck within his cheeks before downing a cup of soft cider. Once his windpipe was cleared, he gave her a meek grin before murmuring, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to be so careless… and uncouth as Rarity would probably put it. It’s just... this food is so good! I feel like I’m gonna cry with each bite!"

“If that’s your way of describing how good the food is, you’ve done a good job,” Mokata chuckled, dapping at her muzzle with a napkin. “I can’t say I blame you. This food is just lovely. I feel like I could eat this forever if given the chance.”

“All that tells me is Rosière cooks totally have you wrapped around their hooves regarding its delicacies,” Nocturnus grinned teasingly as Mokata silently blushed and frowned cutely at him. “Of course, with me and my own appetite, I don’t really have room to talk.”

“Indeed you don't,” The pegasus gently scolded like a mother to her child while pointing a reprimanding wing at him. “Out of all of the crusaders, you’re the one who has the biggest appetite. It’s so ravenous it would make even Pinkie Pie look like she has proper table manners! And knowing her and how she eats, that’s saying a lot.”

“At least I don’t go around eating my food as if I’m a pot-bellied big rolling in a pile of mud,” Nocturnus shot back while crossing his forelegs as if he was just told something very insulting. “And now that we’re on the subject, did you have to pick a spot where people had pets roaming around? We had at least five church grims come over to our table trying to take our meals! Not that mind them, but could you have at least picked a place where there were as few as possible?”

Mokata smiled guiltily as she twiddled with her hooves. “I'm sorry… I didn’t mean to be so hasty. When I picked this part, it looked like such a controlled place where we won’t be bothered too much.” She looked around to where other festival celebrators were sitting, and how loud they were actually being. “I guess that ended up coming back to bite me.”

“Now that’s something I think we can agree on…” Nocturnus deadpanned, tossing some of his mane from his face. A softer look enveloped his features as he gave a resigning sigh. “Hasty decisions aside, I’m not mad at you for it. If I’m being honest, I sort of like it. Not just for the fact that we’re interacting with the vampires like we're normal people, but because we get nice little greetings from their pets. Even if they try to steal our food from time to time.”

“Me too,” Mokata giggled as her cheeks turned pink. “While they were rather… invasive, they were all so sweet! One of them even had little puppies with her! Oh, it was the cutest thing!”

“Cute? Totally. Cute while they were all trying to cover me in slobber and burn me with their fire? Not so much," Nocturnus stated, looking down at the singed patches on his pelt. “Seriously, who knew church grims could have so many puppies at one time? You'd think they're like the feral version of Diamond Dogs! I’m going to have to read up on Church Grim Anatomy regarding the amount of offspring they have.”

“I’m sure the King and Queen have books about them in their castle,” Mokata speculated, taking in a slice of apple. “If we ask, they may let us take some home. From how big their castle looks, they might have a library with all sorts of books like Twilight's Bookstore. Even ones on the animals in the Undiscovered West. Fluttershy would be so happy if we did that!”

“More like have a field day...” Nocturnus agreed, laughing at the hearts beating in the pupils of his friend's eyes. ‘Now I think about it, I do want to repay Fluttershy for letting me take Mokata to Rosière. Maybe I should get her a book about church grims as a surprise present. I just hope I have enough bits for it. Nyx knows I spent too much on this meal.’

“Nocturnus?” Mokata’s sweet voice pulled him out of his inner monologue like a sea otter pulling its baby atop her belly. “Is there something the matter? You were looking spaced out there…”

“S-sorry! I didn’t mean to!” Nocturnus replied, holding up his hooves meekly. “I just ended up getting lost in thought when you mentioned King Ambrogino and Queen Ambrosia. You know, with asking them for books about phantom dogs...”

“Are you thinking they’re going to say no if we do ask them?” Mokata asked, holding a hoof in front of her neck. Before the thestral could confirm her assumption, she went on. “Wait… are you still worried about coming face to face with them?”

Nocturnus stayed quiet for a moment before sighing. “…No, not really. If I’m being honest seeing them on stage while doing their speech helped ease my nerves. While I did feel a shitload of power coming from them, I felt… safe by their presence.”

“You felt safe?” Mokata asked, her eyes becoming curious.

“I did,” Nocturnus nodded softly. "I definitely knew they could snap my neck like a tiger would a water buffalo’s if given the chance. But, I didn't feel anything like that from them. More like they’d protect me from anything and everything as long as they were there. If that makes sense.”

It made perfect sense. Mokata also experienced that feeling more than a few times in her life. If not from Fluttershy, then certainly from those who she had met that she deemed to be safe for her to be around. Some definitely looked scary, such as Apple Bloom’s brother Big Macintosh and her sister’s childhood friend Bulk Biceps. Including that nature-loving pegasus stallion her sister was dating who saved them from a trip that went wrong while they were visiting the Forbidden Jungle for Mokata’s thirteenth birthday. Now that was a stallion that really sent chills up her spine when she first saw him. Something that lessened considerably the more she spent time with him.

While those stallions looked like they could send even the toughest of creatures cowering from fear, they shared one thing. Underneath their hard exteriors were gentle and kind people that wanted nothing more than to keep those they cared for safe. It was those ponies that Mokata felt the safest around and believed would bring no harm to her. While she did feel protected around her own friends and their siblings, there was just something about the ones with the softest hearts that just drew her to them. Like a moth being drawn to the brightest of flames.

“I know what that feels like. Being face to face with someone who makes you feel like you’re in danger yet safe at the same time,” Mokata assured, smiling. “It’s one of the craziest feelings you can have about people. Ones that are capable of doing terrifying things, that you know they won’t do to you. I’ve met many who make me feel that way. Including you~.”

“Heh, I knew I wasn’t the only one. But given how perceptive you are when reading others, I shouldn’t be surprised," Nocturnus shrugged, trying - and failing - to hide the blush on his ace. “All those lessons Fluttershy gave you on reading animal body language really came in handy, didn't they?”

“When you live with her for as long as I have, you pick up on a lot of things,” Mokata giggled with a hoof pressed against her lips. “It’s always the quiet ones that give you the most surprises, you know?”

“No arguments here,” Came Nocturnus’s own laugh as he adjusted his hat. “Social cues aside, I am more optimistic about how our meeting with Ambrosia will go now that I’ve seen them in the flesh. They seem like loving and caring leaders who want everything for their subjects. That gives me hope for us being able to bury the hatchet after what happened during our first encounter.”

“Mhm,” Mokata sighed, looking up where the stars dotted the sky. “Talking about what happened all those years ago should be a good place for us to start, shouldn't it?”

“Uh-huh,” Nocturnus nodded. “Part of me did think it would be during or even after the festival. But since we decided to stay the night here… I’m betting my bits on the meeting being in the morning.”

“And I’ll be right next to you when it does,” Mokata said, reaching out to hold Nocturnus’s hooves. “You’ve gone out of your way so much already taking me to this place. The least I can do is be beside you when you meet the ones you’ve had a fear of for so long.”

“Considering you were also there with me when it happened, it wouldn’t make any sense if you weren’t,” Nocturnus pointed out. “But I appreciate it all the same Mokata. Being there for me so much.”

“Well, you are one of the five ponies I’ve befriended that shared in my triumphs and my trials,” Mokata said back. “I wouldn't be a good friend if I wasn't here along with you, would I?”

“If you weren't then we'd never have what we do now,” Nocturnus replied, booping the pegasus’s nose. “But seriously, I am grateful Mokata you’re here. You’ve made this night more special than I could’ve ever thought. Thank you for that, and… I love you.”

Deep within her chest, Mokata felt her heart give a skip of a beat, breath surging in her lungs at the words that Nocturnus uttered. Her pupils dilated for a second, warmth surging through her like a polar bear cub nuzzling against its mother. Very, very slowly, she leaned in and kissed his forehead, prompting Nocturnus to blush. She pressed their foreheads together, her mane sliding in front of her eyes to hide the tears forming. With a voice gentler than raining snowflakes, she spoke three words that sent waves of warmth through Nocturnus’s entire body.

“I love you too… Noctie~.”

Author's Note

I gotta say, the second and third part of this chapter was pretty hard for me to write... at least the part where the Vampire King and Queen were presenting themselves. And where Nocturnus and Mokata were talking when to meet them to get past some...unfortunate events :twilightsheepish: . All and all, I had a pretty good time writing this, especially the part where the magically induced Sugar Pink Moon was made in front of everyone. I thought about using the actual moon as a way to show it, but I felt like this one was better. I wanted to be on the more magical end of things, and I feel like I got it. Even if the description was not as thrilling as I made it out to be.

Also, before anyone asks, yes, I am thinking of having Nocturnus and Mokata see the King and Queen to have their personal little talk. Not sure whether I'll be able to do it, or if I'll just make into an aftermath paragraph, but I'll be contemplating that once I get to that point in this story. All I will say is that I'll be giving some description as to how that's going to go for those of you who are curious. You may or may not be disappointed as to how it will go, but hey... we'll see when we get there.

Anyway, I really hope you guys enjoyed this chapter. It was a toughie to right, and I hope you guys got a thrill from watching it. If not, then don't worry, because the next chapter will surely have you guys leaving satisfied! Up next will be the sweet, sweaty, steamy, sultrily, and downright lewd chapter you've been dying to see :rainbowdetermined2: !!!

Gentle Nectarine

For the rest of their time in Rosière, Nocturnus, and Mokata took what was left of it to enjoy the last bits of the Pink Moon Festival. While they enjoyed some of the livelier things, they decided to take things easy for others. From painting to playing music, and playing innocent little games with the children there. This last activity was the favorite of both Crusaders, even more so due to how lovely the youngsters were. Parents certainly took great pleasure in seeing their little ones coddling the equines much to their embarrassment. Some did get carried away, but it wasn’t anything Mokata and Nocturnus couldn’t handle.

Eventually, the duo had their fill and decided to resign for the time being. Both worked up quite a sweat during the second half of the festivities and wanted to freshen up. It was made more apparent by the residents who covered their noses from the smell they gave off. To their credit, none of them outright said they did smell. Probably not to make them feel more embarrassed during their walk back to their hotel. Not that it really worked in the end.

It felt like an hour of walking and getting looks of discomfort before Nocturnus and Mokata made it to their hotel. Neither wanted anything more than to get their sweat off them. Something they went about doing as soon as they got into their bathroom. Any thoughts of being uncomfortable with bathing in the same tub together were practically nonexistent. Only ones of getting as clean as possible filled their heads, squashing any feelings of embarrassment over it. Little did the two realize what it would lead to? Or just what kind of end it would bring to their night.

“How is the bathwater Nocturnus?” Mokata asked as she used her hooves to spread the soap around her mane. “Is it at the right temperature for you?”

Nocturnus, whose head hanging back on the tub’s edge, lifted it up to look at the mare that sat in front of him. “Yeah, the water is fine. No need to worry about it being too hot or cold. I’m actually feeling really nice right now.”

“Really? That’s good,” Mokata said, smiling happily. “I was worried you wouldn’t be able to take it. I was in such a rush that I didn’t pay attention to how warm or cool it would feel.”

“Hey, it’s alright Mokata. It isn’t like it was that hot,” Nocturnus said carelessly. “I’m more focused on whether or not this soap we’re using will help or not.”

“I think it is. The Hotel Owner told us this soap is the best one found in Rosière,” Mokata assured, pressing the soap together as if making a sculpture. “It’s supposed to leave your body fresher than a dress made from the finest of silk and smelling better than a pie straight out of the oven. That’s what the label said on the soap at least.”

“While I don’t think it’ll work that well, I can feel the effects this soap is having on me,” Nocturnus added, the sweet scent of the soap flowing into his nose. “Applejack or Rarity would completely agree to how it would make them feel or smell based on how your description.”

Mokata blushed. “You think so?”

“I’d have to be a complete doofus not to. Applejack loves herself some apple pie, and if we know Rarity, she loves a beautiful dress,” Nocturnus said confidently. “Given how they are with those things, I don’t doubt those are the ways they’d describe this soap.”

All of the bathroom walls echoed with Mokata’s giggling. She and Nocturnus did know Applejack and Rarity long enough to know what they liked most. Meals having apples for the former and dresses of the fashionableness for the latter. It could be said that neither would be interested in things like soap since it was only used for bodily care. True as it was, they could also be seen believing it to leave them smelling like the things they were most known for. Even if it would lead them to argue over it. It wasn’t certain if it would make them like soap more, but it would make them feel more like themselves.

“I sort of feel the same,” Mokata murmured. “I wonder if Sweetie Belle and Apple Bloom would think the same if they tried this soap. They are pretty similar to Rarity and Applejack while still being different in their own way. Maybe we could check out one of the essential stores here and find out if there’s soap like this for the rest of the CMC.”

“We’d have to do it for the others too if we did, but they may get jealous,” Nocturnus advised. “I’m not saying we shouldn’t do it. Just not now. We’ve already gone far enough in spending our bits on gifts for them and dining. I’d rather not blow it the rest of it away.”

“I-I know! It was just a suggestion!” Mokata quickly reiterated, waving her hooves as if she was holding a pair of maracas. “I’m sorry if it made it seem like we should spend more. I know how you are with wanting to save as much as possible.”

“I knew what you meant. I was just explaining what would’ve happened if we were to do that now,” Nocturnus stated calmly. “Maybe we could have a talk with them about coming here to do that and everything else we did. With the history some of us have with the Queen though, that is going to be easier said than done.”

“Let’s leave that for future Mokata and Nocturnus to handle,” Mokata said meekly. “Something tells me the others won’t set foot in here of their fruition for a while. We should stick to it being us for now and give them extra time. However long that will take.”

“Not for a long time no doubt,” Nocturnus said, his eyes closing in unenthusiastic anticipation for the future task. His nose expanded to let a sigh fly out of them as his lips pulled themselves back into a smile. “Future attempts for Rosière Crusader Trips aside, I did have fun here tonight. I think I can say with confidence this is the best Hearth’s Warming I’ve had.”

“Me too. I didn’t think it’d go in the direction it did. I was prepared for it to be quiet and uneventful, but for it to go like this?” Light swirled around her eyes as tears began to emerge. “None of the Hearth’s Warmings I’ve had can come even close to this one.”

“I wouldn’t be so certain of that Mokata,” Nocturnus chuckled, one of his bat wings rising to wipe the mare’s face. “Fun as this trip to Rosière was, there is a possibility of an even funner one in the future. Whether it will happen during a special event I don't know. It doesn’t take away it not happening or outdoing the one we’re on right now.”

“Yes, I know,” Mokata agreed, letting the thestral wipe her incoming tears. “I was just expressing how this trip stood out from all of the others I took.”

‘Sounds like she’s excluding that one trip she and Fluttershy took to the Forbidden Jungle where they both met the latter’s current boyfriend,’ Nocturnus thought, deciding to keep that thought to himself. “It’s fine. All that tells me is how much of a good time you had here.”

“I did. All thanks to you Nocturnus.” Mokata confirmed, looking at her reflection inside the water. “You’ve done many things for me in the past, but this has to be the sweetest by far. I don’t know how I can ever repay you for this.”

“Not that I don’t appreciate the gratitude, I don’t think I’m the one that you should be thanking.” Nocturnus denied. “Fluttershy’s the one who deserves it. She was the one who set this whole thing up. You wouldn’t even be here with me if it wasn’t for her.”

“You mean I wouldn’t be here with you?” Mokata corrected gently like a parent correcting their still-learning-to-speak child. “You have a point in my sister starting this, but you played a part in making my night too. You offered me a ticket to go with you to the festival! If anything, you and Fluttershy should get my gratitude for how things turned out.”

“…Yeah, that’s true. I was just stating how I shouldn’t get all of the appreciation,” Nocturnus sighed. “Guess I should’ve been more straightforward in expressing that.”

“It’s okay Noctie. I understand what you meant to say,” Mokata assured understandingly. “I’ll be sure to give Fluttershy my thanks for letting you take me here. And find a proper way to repay you for making this night so amazing.”

“I have no doubt you will. No matter how much I try to decline,” Nocturnus stated, his words eliciting another giggle from the pegasus. His nostrils flared to let a sigh escape as he rose from the water, the liquid flowing down his damp fur. “Alright, I think that’s enough washing for me tonight. Are coming along with me?”

“I’m going to stay for just a bit longer,” Mokata replied, sinking further into the bathtub. “I want to make sure my dirt and sweat are all gone. I don’t want to still feel stinky by the time I’m done.”

“Okay, I’ll leave you to it then. Try not to take too long, okay? I don’t want to pay the Hotel Owner more than needed when we leave,” Nocturnus advised as he stepped out of the tub. “Our bits are halfway gone at this point from our spending. I still want to have enough to at least get back to Ponyville and not get stuck here.”

“I won’t long. I promise,” Mokata reassured. “It isn’t like I can stay here all night anyway. We do have something we need to address in the morning.”

“Don’t we know it,” Nocturnus agreed as he grabbed a midnight blue bathrobe that hung next to the tub. “I’m gonna go dry myself before I hit the hay. I’ll leave the light on so you can find your way out. Call me if you need anything okay?”

“I will. Have a good night,” Mokata replied as Nocturnus made his way toward the exit. “Don’t let the bedbugs bite~.”

Deciding not to reply, Nocturnus smiled, moving his head downward to give a nod as if to say she he wouldn’t. He then exited the bathroom, leaving a half-wet and half-dry trail of water behind him. Reaching the bed, he sat down on its edge and unwrapped the towel before putting it atop his head to rub at his mane. Humming suddenly floated its way into his batty ears, bringing him to the realization that Mokata was singing. Smiling to himself, the bat-winged stallion continued drying himself as the events that took place hours ago entered his mind.

‘Gosh, this was a pretty eventful night. I ever thought that there would be so much that would happen at one time. From seeing Rosière for the first time, to being up close and personal with vampires? It was a lot for two ponies to go through at once.’ Nocturnus thought. ‘I haven’t had this many things happen to me in a twenty-four-hour span since that party Queen Luna threw for me, the Crusaders, and our sisters over at Myskia. This is the second time I experienced something so different from the usual stuff that happens to me. Not that there is anything wrong with that.'

Pulling his towel from his head, Nocturnus turned his attention to his tail. ‘I didn’t think for a second that I’d do this with someone who was willing to go to Rosière. Let alone someone I've known since I was a foal. I don’t know if this was by some stroke of luck or if Nyx decided to take this night into her own hooves, but I’m grateful either way. I’m totally gonna have a bunch to tell when I’m back in Ponyville! This is the most of a good time that I’ve had in years since going to Ponyville! I can’t think of one single thing that could possibly ruin it!’

A scream like that of a foal waking up from a nightmare suddenly flew outside of the bathroom, followed by a wet thump of something hitting the floor. Nocturnus, who was lost in his daydreaming, found himself pulled out of his happiness at the sound biting into his ears. His head snapped forward knowing exactly where that sound had come from and to who it belonged.

‘Crap! I think I spoke too soon!’ Nocturnus thought as panic filled him. With speed equivalent to a gazelle, Nocturnus ran from the bed and towards the bathroom door. Careless about causing any damage to it, he swung it open, flying straight towards the tub.

“Mokata! Are you okay?!” He asked frantically. “I heard you scream! What… happened…”

Silence fell upon the bathroom like an owl soaring through the night as the incoming words died in Nocturnus’s mouth. No other sound or image entered his ears and came within his field of vision as he stared at the sight before him. Pressed up against the bathtub was Mokata, looking like she was attacked by a rabid dog. Her mane hung limp on her head, sticking to her neck and face while droplets of water dripped off. In Mokata’s right hoof, a brush was held in it, like she was trying to strike something.

Unexpected as this sight was, this was what Nocturnus’s eyes were currently glued on.

No. What he was eyeing was the vertical moist pink lips between Mokata’s hindlegs.

In a stretch of time that felt never-ending, Nocturnus stared at that spot. It was like that sacred bodily area was locking his mountain blue orbs in place, wanting him to look at nothing but it. Only when Mokata let out a squeak did Nocturnus begin coming back to reality. He had just enough time to see her confused face before her eyes followed where he was looking. A soft gasp left her as realization hit her, and her body shook as she slowly looked back up at the paling thestral.

M-Mokata...” He whimpered like a rabbit staring into the jaws of a wolf. “This isn’t what it-”

Nothing else managed to leave the stallion’s mouth as Mokata’s terrified scream cut him off. Her shower brush flew at him, hitting his forehead with the force of a zebra’s kick. Stars burst within his vision as quickly as the pain, preventing him from feeling it in his back while hitting the floor. World blackening, he caught Mokata standing over him, muzzle covered by her hooves and eyes filled with horror as if she had trampled over a deer. Just before losing consciousness, he asked a single question that drove the knife of guilt deeper into Mokata’s tender heart.

“Why…?”

Aching inside of his head was the first thing Nocturnus felt when he woke up from his unconscious state. Upon feeling the sharp pain in his head, a sharp hiss left his lips that helped confirm that he was still able to hear. He quickly managed to get past the headache and focus on opening his eyes to see if he could see. Nocturnus was immediately given his answer when he saw teary sea-green eyes looking down at him.

“Nocturnus! Thank Epona you’re awake!” A crack appeared in Mokata’s voice while expressing her relief. “Are you alright?!”

“Nngh… Mokata?” Nocturnus groaned, a hoof rubbing at his forehead. “What… happened?”

“Y-you fell unconscious,” Mokata explained. “It was after I… hit you with the shower brush.”

Nocturnus paused at the mare’s explanation, memories of the prior incident flapping back inside his mind. “Right...that. I kinda forgot it happened while I was out. Ugh, I can’t believe I went out the way I did.”

“I know, and I am so sorry!” Mokata cried, a couple of tears dripping from her eyes. “I was just so startled from seeing you in front of me after I slipped that I just…! I know you weren’t trying to peep at me! Please don’t be mad at me!”

“Whoa! Hold your horses Mokata! I’m not mad at you! Honest!” Nocturnus diffused, pressing his hoof against Mokata’s lips. “I mean, yeah. I’m kind of annoyed at what you did. But I’m not upset at you for reacting the way you did.”

Mokata sniffled, waiting until Nocturnus took away his hoof to speak. “R-really? You aren’t angry?”

“Other than with the fact you nearly cracked my skull open like a falcon folding a pigeon’s spine? No,” Nocturnus stated, wincing as a slice of pain pulsed through his head, as if for emphasis. “You didn’t hurt me as much as you thought, so I’ll be alright. Other than having a few headaches down the road.”

“Ah... that’s a relief. I really thought seriously I hurt you with the brush,” Mokata sighed as her emotions settled down.

“It hurt more than you think I can assure you, but it’s nothing I haven’t felt before. It’ll fade away in time.” Nocturnus sighed, letting his foreleg fall. “I’m just glad it’s the only thing I have to deal with right now.”

“I… wouldn’t be so sure about that Nocturnus,” Mokata murmured, face going red while looking to the side. “See…w-when I while I had you to the bed, I-I noticed something about your body.”

“Oh yeah? What would that be?” Nocturnus asked uninterestedly. “Did I get the wing boner that is famous among pegasi?”

“Y-yes, but it wasn’t just that…” More redness covered Mokata’s cheeks. “There was another part of your body I saw display itself. In the… lower regions.”

“Lower regions?” Nocturnus lay there in confusion for a couple of seconds, before a gasp left his fanged mouth. “Wait… y-you don’t mean-?!”

Face now redder than a colossal squid’s skin, Mokata shut her eyes, her head giving the tiniest of nods. Lifting a shaky hoof, she pointed to the left, right down to the spot where Nocturnus’s hind legs were. Gulping, he lifted his head and stopped upon seeing the tiny hole of his erection staring back at him.

“Oh. Fuck. Me.” He squeaked weakly.

“I didn’t notice it until after I got you onto the bed,” Mokata murmured, not daring to look at the organ. “I didn’t know what to do, so I let it be in hopes it would settle down.”

“Gleaming Fangs of Nyx!” Nocturnus cried, sitting himself up from Mokata’s lap and hiding his penis with his wings. “I’m so sorry Mokata! I… I didn’t mean for you to see this! I just… damn it!”

“It’s alright,” Mokata soothed. “It wasn’t like you planned for me to see it. It was just your body’s natural reaction to seeing me in the… position I was in.”

“It doesn’t make me less upset about it,” Nocturnus grunted bitterly. “It’s bad enough you saw it to begin with, but you had to keep doing so until I woke up. I know that it had to be embarrassing for you.”

Mokata’s eyes ran down Nocturnus’s grey back, lips pursing. “It doesn’t mean you’re at fault for instinctive reactions. It’s the same with any male creature when around a female. Knowing that, do you really think you should feel ashamed and angry at yourself for it?”

“…No, I shouldn’t,” Nocturnus sighed, wings lowering. “I’m still not happy it happened either way. Damn it, how in the hell am I gonna deal with this...?”

While Nocturnus stirred in the frustration of his situation, Mokata sat at a loss. No effort to look at her friend was needed to know how humiliating this was for him. It was the same emotion she felt when Nocturnus stared at the place only she let herself and a select few look. Unlike her, it wasn’t something that he could easily rid himself much less hide. Unless certain steps were taken, Nocturnus was undoubtedly going to have this bothering him for the rest of the night. A problem Mokata knew neither wanted to follow them for the rest of their time in this kingdom. At that moment, an idea rose into the pegasus’s mind that she’d never even think of if given a millennium to live.

Unimaginable as it was, Mokata could not think of anything else that would help her friend with his problem. It would also help her in satisfying a certain curiosity she had since hitting her teens and learning about a certainsubject. Nervous as she was about it, Mokata saw this as the perfect opportunity to kill two birds with one stone. Along with bonding with her friend in a more special and intimate way. Gathering all the strength she had, Mokata began her proposal to the thestral on how to help him. A proposal that, unbeknownst to them, would be the start of a brand-new relationship between them.

“I, um… think I may have an idea as to how you can… sate your hormones.” Mokata quietly said after a minute of silence.

“Really? You know what to do?” Nocturnus asked somewhat sarcastically. “Please enlighten then on what idea you have that will help me the ass that is my dick.”

Placing a hoof on the thestral, Mokata took in a breath, letting it softly flow out as she gathered the following words in her head. Looking right into his eyes, she blurted, “How about we have sex?”

Speechless, Nocturnus blinked at Mokata, his mind registering what had come out of her usually bashful mouth. He was tempted to pinch himself or even pick at his ears just to make sure he did not mishear her correctly. Fortunately for him, one stare into Mokata’s serious gaze was all that was required for Nocturnus to know he didn’t. His eyes slowly widened as her words finally sunk into his head and his jaw fell like a baby stork being evicted out of its nest.

“Y-you… want me… to have sex with you?!” He cried, fully turning around to face the mare. “A-are… are you serious?!”

“I am,” Mokata replied, not breaking her gaze away. “I know this is coming out of the blue, but… I do want to mate with you Nocturnus. Right here and now.”

Nocturnus gave a series of blinks. “I… wow. I did not expect you to propose something like that to me Mokata. I thought you were going to suggest something else that… I don’t know, didn’t really involve that?”

“I was just thinking the same thing,” Mokata said with a slight giggle. “Honestly, I’m surprised at myself that I’m suggesting this in the first place. I guess seeing you like this got me thinking about things I normally don’t.”

“Maybe… but I don’t think it’s that surprising, since you did see my dick hanging out like a sprout,” Nocturnus stated, giving a shrug. “If you don’t mind me asking, why do you want to do this? I feel there’s another reason you want to. Other than helping me.”

A tiny smile formed on the corners of Mokata’s lips. “…Yes, it isn’t just because of that. I’m also doing this because… I’m curious. About what it would be like to mate with someone. How it feels to take that step and connect with someone in ways that you haven’t felt before. It’s been on my mind since I learned about intercourse and… I thought maybe we could give it a try.”

“…So, because you’re interested in what sex is like, and you want to help me not feel horny until morning, you want to do it?” Nocturnus asked slowly, wanting to make sure he got everything in order. “Now that is a reason to propose it if I’ve ever heard of one.”

“I can imagine…” Mokata giggled before a shy frown replaced it. “So, what do you say Nocty? Do you want to… do it with me?”

Nocturnus hesitated. “I’m not sure. It’s not that I don’t like the thought of mating with you, but… losing your virginity is a big step. It’s not something you just give away to someone. You won’t be able to get it back. Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.”

“I know. It is something I should take seriously. But I’ve thought about this and I want to take this chance while I still can,” Mokata murmured. “You’re my best friend too, Nocturnus. I wouldn’t suggest this if it was with a stranger, but since it’s you, I feel at more ease about sex for the first time. We won’t do it if you don’t want to, but… I would like it if we did. If that’s alright with you.”

No reply was given from the bat-winged equine immediately. Touching as Mokata’s words were, he was still a bit reluctant to do this. It would be a lie if he said that he didn’t want to mate with the gentle pegasus. Even more, if he were to say that she wasn’t the most beautiful out of the six of his main friends. None of it meant he wasn’t afraid of how this would turn out or what it would mean for their relationship if he agreed. From what his parents told him, not all friendships lasted or remained the same after sleeping with each other. While some did remain the same, and even grow into something more, it usually didn’t end as well as thought.

Nocturnus had no doubt that sleeping with Mokata would be nice, but he also knew the risks that came with it. From their relationship no longer being what it was or dying completely, either one would be bad. Even if it let them bond in ways they didn’t, it wouldn’t be worth it if a fallout came afterward. Yet, there was something in him telling him to take the chance. He didn’t know what it was, but a feeling inside him screamed to take the plunge, or he would regret it forever. It sat in the thestral, twisting in his stomach the more it was allowed to before he made his decision.

“And you’re sure about this?” Nocturnus asked, his soft voice guiding Mokata out from her patient waiting. “You’re absolutely certain you want to go this route? In spite of the risks?”

“I’m sure,” Mokata concluded, staring at the thestral with resolute eyes. “It’s risky I know, but I feel we should do it anyway. I’m not sure why, but that’s what I’m being told… and that I’ll regret it if I don’t.”

‘So… she was thinking the same thing that I was… I guess I wasn’t alone in it after all.’ Nocturnus thought, feeling his anxiety dissipate. Once certain he was all the way back calm again, he smiled at his foalhood friend and replied, “Alright then… let’s do it.”

Beaming brighter than Christmas lights, Mokata smiled, her tail wagging behind her at her request being accepted by her friend. Her expression and movements then eased as her cheeks took on a soft pink. Reaching out, she cupped Nocturnus’s face and leaned forward, taking him off guard when her lips pressed against his fanged ones. Instantly, Nocturnus’s carnal desires awoke, and he found himself returning the gesture. Moans escaped their lips as their faces burned, tongues dancing like cobras dancing to music. It was at least twenty seconds before they parted, feeling their lungs sucked in the newly accessible air.

“Wow…” Mokata whispered, looking a bit dazed. “That was just… amazing~.”

“I know right? Pretty intense for a kiss between friends, huh?” Nocturnus agreed with a grin.

“Very.” Mokata nodded with a blush. “Was that your first kiss?”

“My very first one. I can tell that it was yours too.” Nocturnus replied as he licked his lips. “You were still pretty good. Your lips felt soft and warm. Like a syrup-coated pancake.”

Mokata laughed quietly. “Your kiss felt nice too. It’s like I was tasting some fruit I never tried for the first time. You really like fruit, don’t you?”

“Hey, I’m a thestral. Drinking fruit is in our blood.” Nocturnus chuckled proudly. “I gotta keep my body healthy if I wanna live my whole six centuries.”

“Mhm, and your results are certainly showing~.” Mokata praised, patting the stallion’s head.

Grabbing both of Nocturnus’s shoulders, she shifted them and gently pushed him back till he was positioned as to where his head would touch the pillow. Without any encouragement, Nocturnus laid back on the bed, parting his wings so that Mokata could see his pulsing penis. Any pinkness that covered her face became a deep crimson at seeing the blue organ pointed right at her.

“Oh my! It’s so big and hard.” She said quietly, a green hoof reaching out to run down the fleshy appendage. Nocturnus flinched at the contact but stayed quiet as Mokata examined it closely. “It feels so hard in my hooves. You must be really excited…”

“I have to be if it made me like this.” Nocturnus replied, gesturing to the state of his cock. “I did see you in a pretty awkward position five minutes ago.”

“True. I still blame myself for that.” Mokata said awkwardly. “I do plan on making it up to you in full, and I know just how to do it~.”

Extending her tongue out, Mokata ran it along the tip of the stallion’s cock. Precum that was coating its head stuck to the yellow mare’s tongue like a fly in a flytrap. Her slow and gentle licking immediately grew a cute squeak from the colt, before a moan just as adorable left his lips. Mokata gave it no heed and continued to lick from the head, all the way down to the pulsing veins. When she got back to the top, she noticed that there was still some precum left, and proceeded to lick it off.

“Mokata~! Your tongue feels so warm and wet!” Nocturnus gasped, feeling himself melting under his foalhood friend’s sexual touch. “Is this what a blowjob feels like?”

Mokata stopped her licking. "From what I read in Twilight’s Bookstore; this is how it's supposed to be done.” She replied, keeping the cock in her hooves. “Do you… want me to stop?”

Nocturnus’s objection was immediate.

“NO! No! Don’t stop!” He begged, with a whimper. “Keep going… please?”

Mokata beamed down at him and gladly proceeded to continue licking and running her tongue up and down Nocturnus’s cock. Her hooves helped her in pleasuring the colt as she jerked his rock-hard penis off at the same time. He was about to look up to watch her, only to gasp when she took his cock in her mouth, starting from the tip. Warmth rubbed at Nocturnus’s penis as Mokata began to suck him off, using a hoof to keep her mane back. Despite it being so big, it didn’t stop her from giving him her oral service. It certainly served to add to the pleasure that Nocturnus felt. Vocalized by his low moans and squeaks.

“Whoa… that feels amazing Mokata!” Nocturnus grunted with a lip bite. “Please…! Please keep going! I can't get enough of it!”

Hums were the only response Mokata gave as she bobbed her head back and forth. More of Nocturnus’s cock entered her throat, so much so that she could feel it bending in the back of it. She felt the private organ pulse inside her mouth in response, but it didn’t bother the pegasus. Tentatively, Mokata pulled her head back, letting Nocturnus feel every inch of her mouth through his cock. He watched as she stopped just at the head before plunging back down, gulping it like a snake swallowing a mouse.

I can’t believe it! Mokata’s actually managing my entire penis! She’s taking it like she’s licking a popsicle!’ Nocturnus thought in amazement. ‘Did she prepare herself for this or something? Cause it looks like she knows what she’s doing!’

As if reading her friend’s thoughts, Mokata looked up at him, batting her eyelashes in a way that conveyed thankfulness. Nocturnus smiled sheepishly but gave no comment as she continued to blow him for all he was worth. He could feel every mushy and slimy part of her throat, and the warmth, tightness, the unrelenting pleasure it gave him. All the vibrations that she sent through his member didn’t help matters either. More like it did the exact opposite. It made his head spin wildly, serving to make him want it more. Much more.

Mokata was in a similar state if her burning red cheeks and blissful expression were any indications. Her entire throat was filled to the brim with her friend's large horsecock, and it made her wet the more she took it in. She didn’t even need to let her teeth graze over it to let him know just how hard he was. Not that she’d dare do that anyway. Another thing she noticed was how tasty he was, which made her feel stupid for thinking he wouldn’t before she began blowing him.

‘Then again, it could be because Nocturnus is just lucky.’ She thought to herself. ‘I’m pretty sure there aren’t many other stallions as tasty as he is.’

Right on the ending cusp of Mokata thinking that she heard her coltfriend hiss. The sound was so sharp she briefly thought he was hurt. Before she could even attempt to pull out, he immediately soothed her worries. “Shit! Momo… I’m about to cum! Damn it, I’m cumming!”

Going wide within the eyes, Mokata grabbed Nocturnus’s hips as he leaned forward and gripped her head. She moved her head this way and that, in a desperate effort to make him release. The mare braced herself for the taste of his semen to blanket her tongue, but it never came. For one moment, she was confused, but upon feeling something enter her belly, it dawned on her that Nocturnus was filling her stomach. Pulling back, Mokata was immediately blessed with the wonderful taste of the thestral’s semen entering her mouth.

‘So… much.’ She thought, her eyes rolling back as she eagerly gulped it down.

In the middle of Mokata’s task, Nocturnus slumped back, pulling his cock out of her mouth, much to her chagrin. He was quickly forgiven as the last remaining spurts entered her open maw, with even more landing on her face. After the final stream hit her muzzle, Nocturnus collapsed onto the bed, panting heavily from exhaustion.

“Wow... that was incredible~.” He said in between pants, his brain finally working again. “I can’t believe how good that felt!”

“Me neither. I’ve never experienced anything like that before,” Mokata asked, licking the last of the cum off her hooves. “You let out so much in my mouth. I thought it was going to gush out.”

“I thought I was gonna pass out from how you blew me,” Nocturnus added with an exhale. “You took a lot out of my there!”

Mokata giggled. “I bet it did. I’m sorry if I overwhelmed you. I got too caught up in the fun of my task.”

“It’s alright. It’s not like I don’t do the same during my private time.” Nocturnus shrugged. “That blowjob was amazing. You were a lot better at this than I thought.”

“Me too… I figured I was going to do bad at it and you wouldn't like it.” Mokata agreed, a relieved smile spreading on her muzzle. “I’m glad I made it into something you enjoyed.”

“You can bet I did.” Nocturnus nodded with a wink. “You want to have your turn now?”

A tingling sensation stirred in Mokata as this question was asked, and she felt her hindlegs quiver in response to it. Her face once again became a place of residence for blushes and she nodded at the thestral ever so slightly. She watched as Nocturnus crawled down her right, allowing the mare to take his place on the bed. Her hindlegs parted slowly, to reveal a practically sopping wet crotch, their rosy-pink color glistening in the hotel light. It winked every split second as if it was another pair of lips that begged to be kissed. Above them were two grapefruit-sized teats with deep green nipples pleading to be suckled. Liquid leaked from them, flowing down Mokata’s inner thighs and mixing with the juices leaking out of her virgin pussy. It flowed onto the covers of the bed, staining the covers as the smell drifted for Nocturnus to inhale.

“Wow... so this is your private area.” Nocturnus murmured in wonder. “It’s bigger than I thought it’d be…”

“Probably because it’s the real thing…” Mokata guessed, deciding not to think about what he was getting at. “Is it to your liking?”

“All of that and more.” Nocturnus complimented, inhaling her sweet musk. “You have a nice scent coming from you. It makes me want to drink from you like you’re a ponified fruit.”

“W-well, technically you can… there is a pair of fruit in front of you.” Mokata said in an extremely poor attempt at dirty talk. “I doubt anything is going to come out though…”

Nocturnus chuckled. “Won’t know unless we see it for ourselves!”

Before Mokata had any time to register it, Nocturnus immediately went right for her two massive mounds. His lips latched onto the nipples as he mashed both teats together, his tongue running across them as he gave them greedy sucks. Mokata gasped at how quick he was to dive right in but gave no protest as she let Nocturnus feed on her like a nursing baby. She watched as he grabbed her hind legs and held them to his cheeks, feeling his teeth graze the soft skin. Mokata squeaked as he began to pull them but giggled as Nocturnus began twirling her teats around with his mouth.

"Mokata, your milk tastes incredible. It’s like I’m drinking from the baskets and bowls of fruit that my Mom keeps in her kitchen.” Nocturnus breathed as he pulled away. “What do you eat to make your milk taste this good?!”

Mokata smiled bashfully. “I… don’t do anything special. I just eat what will help me grow healthier. I guess I just happened to be one of the lucky ones.”

‘Or one of the ponies that Faust decided to grace with her blessing.’ Nocturnus thought, laughing at the pegasus’s answer. “Well, it looks like you’re right in that regard. Now you have somepony who can indulge in it for as long as you want them to.”

“Y-you’re just saying that~,” Mokata said shyly, one of her wings hiding her face.

“Am I?” Nocturnus smirked, lowering his muzzle to her vaginal lips. “Let’s find out!”

Flicking his tongue out like a Komodo Dragon sniffing out a Water Buffalo, Nocturnus dove straight into Mokata’s pussy. His tongue immediately began going to work at licking and poking at every single inch of her soaking wet cunt and spiking her most sensitive areas. A cry of surprise and pleasure escaped the mare’s mouth, and she threw her head back to release a high-pitched moan that sounded more like a squeak. Her back arched as her legs lifted up slightly from the air, having been freed from Nocturnus’s grip. Her moans soon began to mix with pants as Nocturnus’s tongue invaded her deep within her vagina, sending jolts of pleasure pulsing through her body.

“N-Nocturnus! Oh, Nocturnus!” Mokata whimpered, her hooves coming to grip either side of her pillow. "Sweet Epona! Your tongue feels so wonderful! I can feel it moving everywhere in me!” Sweat began rising on her forehead as her tongue lolled out like a dog recovering from chasing a frisbee. “Please don’t stop! Keep going!”

Nocturnus purred lowly, loving the moans and squeals of delight coming from his love. He closed his eyes and continued his work, plunging his tongue deeper into the confinements of Mokata’s love hole. He wrapped his lips around the lips of her clitoris, wanting to make sure he didn’t spill a single drop of his friend’s wonderfully tasting juices. He even went so far as to give a few suckles in the process, while still giving her wet walls plenty of rough licks. Mokata’s moans turned into sharp screams as her wings flared outward, her legs shaking in the thestral’s grip.

“Ah! Yes! Like that! Keep going like that, Noctie!” Mokata begged, her mouth hanging wide open as tears built up in the corners of her eyes. “More! Drive your tongue deeper into me!”

Nocturnus had to give Mokata’s lower lip another few suckles to keep himself from letting out a guffaw. While he doubted it would’ve harmed Mokata, maybe made her laugh even, he didn’t want to moment to be ruined. Instead, he just continued with his drinking of the fluids that were his friend’s juices and licking from the folds that were her pussy. The mare laying before him moaned up a storm as she drooled, feeling it running down her chin like a miniature waterfall.

‘My goodness! He’s driving me crazy!’ Mokata thought in her lust-addled mind. ‘I never imagined that somepony’s tongue inside of my folds would feel so good! I can only imagine what it feels like for Nocturnus’s dick to be inside of me!’

The pegasus’s ears were suddenly filled with the sound of muffled grunts, followed by the feeling of her hindlegs being pulled at. Looking down, she saw her hind legs wrapped tightly around the back of Nocturnus’s head, with his muzzle all but vanishing in her pussy. Realizing what she was doing, she immediately opened her legs up. Allowing Nocturnus to lift his head just enough to let his nostrils for some much-needed air.

“I’m so sorry Nocturnus! I didn’t mean to do that!” Mokata cried out in alarm. “Are you okay?”

Nocturnus inhaled a few more labored breaths as he finally got his breathing back under control again. He looked up at the mare’s worried expression but said nothing as the corners of his mouth curled a bit. Before Mokata could question him on that, his lips were enclosed around her vaginal lips and sucked hard. A loud squeal of pleasure left Mokata’s throat, her head shooting back as she fell back first on the bed. Nocturnus pushed her legs apart, letting them kick out while continuing to eat the pegasus out. His acts only made Mokata squeal louder, and she could do nothing but writhe around as Nocturnus ravaged her.

“Oh no... Nocturnus! I… I think I’m gonna cum!” Mokata wailed, tears flowing as her wings flapped wildly. Breathing in a huge lungful of air, she felt a buildup in her lower regions. “Oh, Epona! I’m cumming!”

A snort was what Mokata got as a response as Nocturnus drove his tongue to work to bring her to climax. Due to its length, he was able to dive deeper into her walls, right where her G-Spot was, and licked it with extreme roughness. Dots of white clouded Mokata’s vision as her orgasm hit its peak, cum gushed out in miniature waves. They crashed right into Nocturnus’s face as if it was seawater splashing against a rock, obscuring his vision and filling his mouth. His senses went into overdrive as he drank and lapped it up, taking in its rich taste that blessed his taste buds, and he took great pleasure in sipping as much as he could. The waves seemed to go on for hours, but it was only for a couple of minutes realistically. With one final squirt, Mokata went limp, panting as she tried to recover from her riptide of an orgasm.

Nocturnus shivered, his tongue running across his lips as they curved up from the tender taste of the pegasus. He soon felt that same smile on his face drop at seeing Mokata’s exhausted state. ‘Uh-oh… I may have gone a bit too hard on her.’

“Um… Mokata?” Nocturnus asked, his concerned side flaring up upon seeing her convulsing body. “A-are you okay?”

Mokata’s eyes swept up to meet the stallion’s. “I-I'm fine! I'm just… feeling so good right now!”

“…You are?” Nocturnus asked, taken aback. “You’re… not in pain or anything?”

“No... I was just overwhelmed,” Mokata replied, her writhing slowing. “I figured it would feel good but… I wasn’t expecting this.”

"I must’ve done a better job than I thought then,” Nocturnus murmured. “I had to have with all those squeals and cries you gave.”

“Mhm... I enjoyed that a lot,” Mokata nodded, wiping at her sweaty forehead. “You really are talented when you put your mind to it.”

“Not really. I’m just learning as I go along as all,” Nocturnus shrugged, making. “I guess you being so sweet makes you taste the same, doesn’t it?”

Heat erupted inside Mokata’s face at the cheesy compliment as a pregnant pause dived over the bedroom. Nocturnus quickly realized what he had done and looked away as well, twirling his forehooves and lowering his ears in embarrassment.

‘Smooth Nocturnus! Real fucking smooth!’

“I could say the same to you," She muttered as if she did not hear the comment at all. Her eyes then caught a wince of pain Nocturnus involuntarily gave off and concern filled her. “Is something wrong Nocturnus?”

Nocturnus glanced up at her with a pained smile. “No, It’s just… my penis is throbbing right now.”

“It is?” Mokata propped herself up on her elbows and looked down at Nocturnus’s cock. To her amazement, it had returned to its hard state. It also looked to be twitching even more violently now, precum all but pouring out of the tip like a faucet with no plug. “Oh…”

“I guess it got excited by my drinking,” Nocturnus guessed. “I didn’t even notice it leaking like this until now.”

“Yes, it does look harder than before,” Mokata said softly, her eyes becoming half-lidded as lust clouded them. “I think it’s time we both try to make it feel better now~.”

“Both of us?” Nocturnus asked as Mokata pulled him to her as if holding a tiny kitten. “Ah…you mean…”

Mokata smiled softly as she positioned his dick in front of her opening. “Time for the main course. Are you ready?”

“I think I should be asking you that,” Nocturnus replied as he cupped one of Mokata’s cheeks. “It is going to hurt you know. Are you prepared for that?”

“If it’s with you, I can handle anything,” Mokata crooned, gripping his shoulders. “Put it in.”

Needing no further prompting, Nocturnus thrust his hips forward, the tip of his rod sliding into Mokata’s snatch with ease. She gasped at the sensation of her pussy being filled beyond its limit, feeling stars dance within her vision. Pleasure rocked her body as she began to shake underneath Nocturnus, her grip tightening onto Nocturnus.

“Mokata! A-are you okay?!” Nocturnus asked, believing his friend was in pain. “Do you want me to pull out?”

Hearing those last words, Mokata shook her head wildly. “N-no! Please don’t! K-keep it in! It feels so wonderful!”

“It… it does?” Nocturnus asked, looking a bit stunned. “You’re not hurting?”

“N-no,” Mokata confirmed, breathing slowly to keep herself under control. “I-I just wasn’t expecting it to not hurt this much. I thought it’d be worse than what my sister told me. I suppose I'm just lucky.”

“Or Fluttershy just had a different experience than you when she got laid,” Nocturnus guessed with a little shrug as Mokata giggled. “Well… here I go!”

Lifting his hips, Nocturnus paused and brought them back down, hitting Mokata’s rump with a firm smack. Squealing at the movement, she was barely given any time to process it before it happened again. Nocturnus kept at it until he was soon thrusting into his friend at a rough, yet steady pace. His forehooves clutched at her barrel while his hips did their work in running his cock in Mokata over and over. Shutting her eyes, the pegasus’s cheek hit the pillow as her moans bounced off the walls.

“N-Nocturnus! You’re being so rough! You’re thrusting into me so aggressively!” She cried, opening one eye to look at him.

Nocturnus bit his lip. “I’m sorry! I can’t stop my hips anymore! You just feel so good inside that I couldn’t help myself!”

“It’s okay! Move however you want to!” Mokata encouraged. “I want you to feel good along with me! Don’t hold back for my sake! Be as rough as you like!”

Simultaneously touched and driven by her words, Nocturnus did just that. He moved his hips with all his strength, moving his dick as deep as it could go into Mokata’s inner walls. Wet smacks hit the duo’s ears as their thighs kissed, wetness staining their fur with each thrust. Mokata groaned as Nocturnus’s cock tip kissed her womb, her belly bulging with each motion.

‘His cock is going so wild inside of me! It’s stretching and rubbing my pussy like it’s trying to massage my walls!’ Mokata thought, biting her lip. ‘I never knew sex could feel like this! It’s so much different than when I please myself!’

“What’s the matter? Why’re you being so quiet?!” Nocturnus grinned, leaning in and nibbling on Mokata’s right ear. “Come on Momo! I want to hear your voice!”

“W-what about-ah-the other hotel residents?!” Mokata asked in between gasps, shivering at the giant rod in her pussy. “T-their rooms are all around us! W-what if one of them wakes up?!”

“We’ll let them hear us then!” Nocturnus countered, bringing her face towards his. “It’s a hotel! No reason for us to think of them when they’re more than likely doing what we’re doing! And if they have a problem with it…” His eyes glowed in the darkness of the room. “Well, we’ll show them why they shouldn’t!”

Mokata hesitated, silently alternating on whether to just let her cries be heard or keep as quiet as possible. She found it rather difficult, for the pleasure she was feeling from her friend fucking her relentlessly left her barely able to think. At that moment, she decided that she’d listen to him and let her pleasure be known. A part of her still hoped the other residents would not get too mad at her for being kept up. Even if some were having some private fun of their own.

“Now that’s much better!” Nocturnus praised as the mare’s moans massaged at his ears. “Go on! Moan to your heart’s content!”

Pulling her up, the thestral sat the pegasus on his lap, his tongue pulling his muzzle forward to let his lips meet Mokata’s in another kiss. A muffled gasp of surprise exited from her, but she made no attempt to pull away and happily reciprocated. For the second time that night, the due went into another make-out session that was intensified by their current act of intimacy. It was somewhat marred due to Nocturnus’s fangs constantly rubbing up between their lips. Mokata did not let it bother her, feeling it push her to show her friend even more affection.

“Wow! Your dick is going in deeper than it did before!” Mokata gasped, pulling her head away so she could speak. “I can feel it messing up my insides!”

“S-same here! You’re clenching me so tight! It’s like you’re trying to pop my dick off!” Nocturnus added, holding the mare’s hips as she rode him like a cowpoke on a rodeo bull. ‘That sounded a lot worse than it should’ve!’

“I’m sorry! I-it just feels so good! My pussy is acting on its own!” Mokata whimpered, forehooves pressing against the stallion’s chest as he took her former position on the bed. “Don’t worry! I’ll make you feel even greater!”

Laying herself atop Nocturnus, the yellow pegasus increased her hip movements, bringing them up and down in rapid bounces. She picked up the inhale of breath Nocturnus made, along with the feeling of his cock pulsing inside of her. It let her know Mokata was doing her job and he was feeling the efforts of her labor. Not that she wasn’t certain that he wasn’t feeling it already.

“Shit! I can feel my dick stretching inside of you! It feels amazing!” Nocturnus, forelegs wrapped around Mokata’s shoulders. “If you keep doing it like that, I’ll…! Crap! I’m about to cum!”

“Me too… me too! I’m cumming! I’m cumming too! Let’s do it together!” In the seconds those words were stated, Mokata felt the same build-up from before coming back with a vengeance. Pushing herself back up, she locked her forehooves with the stallion in preparation for the final climax. “Shoot it inside of me! I’ll accept all of it!”

Feeling no need to be told twice, Nocturnus’s own hips returned to work, joining Mokata in a lust-filled rhythm of smacks and slaps. Whatever wetness they felt from the beginning had increased two times over with the increase of movement. The bed rocked and creaked violently with them as the friends continued their session of passion, the smell of sweat and sex rising in the air. With sweat flowing from their bodies and hearts in their chests, Mokata and Nocturnus broke as they screamed into the night.

All hearing, sight, taste, touch, and smell became overwhelmed by their orgasmic bliss as the duo went through their seizure-like states. It seemed to stretch on, almost as if Nyx and Epona themselves wanted them to truly feel the bliss of their physical connection. Mokata most of all, as shown by how her belly ballooned from the extensive amount of cum gushing inside of her. As quickly as it began, it ended to let the friends recover their senses. Sight came first, as Nocturnus’s eyes of blue mountains became flooded by Mokata’s gentle gaze of oceanic green. Following that was their hearing, coming in time for them to hear one another’s next words. Filled with love only found between true friends.

“Mokata…”

“Nocturnus~…”

With no more energy left to give, the duo fell limp onto their hotel bed, completely spent from their sexual intimacy. Mokata rested on top of Nocturnus, face smothered in his chest while he stroked her head with his hoof. For ten minutes they laid just like that, their expressions half-lidded as the afterglow basked them in its comforting embrace. Energy soon came back to Nocturnus, which he used to let his soft voice flow through the silence.

“How’re you holdin’ up there Mokata?” He mumbled, too tired to do anything else. “You enjoyin’ your little spot my wing?”

“Mhm. It’s the first time I ever used a thestral’s wing as a pillow,” She whispered as she sweetly smiled. “It feels so comfy.”

“Really? Even more than a feathered one?” Nocturnus asked teasingly. “I’ve seen you lay on one of Fluttershy’s wings whenever you two took naps together. I figured you’d like that more than a wing with membranes.”

“I do, but I like yours too Nocturnus.” Mokata countered. “My sister’s wings are comforting. I’m not going to deny that, but… there’s just something about your wings that makes me feel that much more relaxed and… safe.”

“In that case, you’ll have the rest of the night to be able to feel safe inside them if that’s what you want,” Nocturnus said, his nose nuzzling into her mane. “Just don’t get too safe in them. I don’t want to wake up to see you clutching my wing like a joey would its mother when it's still in the pouch.”

Mokata giggled. “I won’t make any promises, but I’ll do my best not to let it get in the way of the next day. Given what we have to do and all…”

“Uh-huh…” Nocturnus agreed, sighing as a foreleg came to lay on his forehead. “I really enjoyed doing what we did. I didn’t think it would go this way… but I’m fine with it.”

“Me too. I was scared that it would go horribly. You have no idea how relieved I am that it started and ended this way,” Mokata murmured, snuggling deeper into Nocturnus. “I know this is going to sound out of place but… I’m glad you were my first.”

“And I'm gladder I had my first time with you,” Nocturnus added tenderly. “I only hope I made this night special for you.”

“You did. More than you think,” Mokata cooed, planting her soft lips against Nocturnus’s fluffy cheek before a yawn left his maw. “Uh-oh~… looks like someone’s getting sleepy. Heading off to dreamland?”

“Yeah… I’m exhausted. All that partying and fucking took away any energy remaining,” He replied sleepily, feeling his drowsiness strengthen. “You gonna stay up?”

“No, I’ll join you in a minute. I just want to make myself a bit more comfortable before hoof,” The mare stated softly, laying a foreleg across the thestral’s chest. “I also want to be prepared for the possibility of Queen Luna visiting us in our dreams. If she decides to visit us that is.”

Nocturnus’s lips formed a straight line. “So we can explain to her that what she might see in our dreams isn’t really what it looks like?”

“Yes. I’m sure she won’t purposely enter after getting a glimps of what it will look like. But if she does…” Ruby red grew on the Mokata's cheeks as she trailed off. “…it’s gonna be awkward. For both of us.”

“Understatement of the millennium,” Nocturnus added with a similar look before giving another big exhale of air. "Well, whatever happens, is gonna happen. We did the deed and we’ll just have to deal with what’ll come later. Be it in the waking world or in the dream world. One world I think we should head off to now.”

“Alright then, I’ll join you there soon,” Softness went up and down Mokata's hoof as she rubbed it across the stallion’s chest. “Good night Nocty~. Happy Hearth’s Warming Eve~.”

“Good night, Momo…” Nocturnus muttered back, his voice just above a whisper. “Happy Hearth’s Warming Eve to you too~.”

Unable to fight it off any longer, sleep took Nocturnus in its grip, his friend’s warmth aiding him into his slumber. Mokata watched him drift off, loving how innocent he looked in his state of slumber. With one loving kiss to the thestral’s forehead, she wrapped her wings around him and let the embrace of sleep take her as well. Feeling the full moon bathed them in its comforting glow.

Author's Note

I'm not even going to try to go into just how long it took me to get this damn chapter out after countless days of editing, time and rewriting. All I will say is that I am so glad to finally have it out after so long of putting it on hold! I'm not gonna lie, some of this chapter has bits and pieces taken out from the older version of this that I had up. This is why it took me some time to edit it and tone down the craziness behind it. Something I probably didn't succeed at doing since I made that as a plan for this chapter. Either way, I'm glad I could finally post this and reward the patience of everyone who is still tracking this story. I'm still in the process of preparing the next chapter of this, as I said in my last blog post. But it should not be for as long as it did this one... at least I hope so. I don't know if it'll have any raunchiness as this chapter did, but... I'll try my best. Once I get past the tense and hopefully emotional parts of it.

Well, that's all for this Author's Note! See you all in the next chapter along with the ending! I will be going back to keep prepping those chapters up, and taking care of more important real-life-related things. Hope you guys enjoyed the chapter! If it left you feeling hot and bothered, well... don't say I didn't give you somewhat of a warning in the desctiption :ajsmug: .

Royal Reunions

Minimum as the hours were, Nocturnus and Mokata managed to get proper sleep after all their fornicating the night before. It should’ve been impossible given how late they stayed up, but no matter how it looked, they achieved it. Just as Nocturnus predicted, Mokata using his wing like a pillow was the first thing he woke up to. He honestly found it amusing despite expressing to his fellow friend he didn’t want to wake up to find her like that. Not that he really meant it at the time since he was obviously joking. Cute as it was, the thestral knew he couldn’t let his fellow flyer stay like that. Otherwise, his wing would be left aching for the whole morning. Something that he was not keen on letting happen regardless of circumstance.

Once he succeeded in getting the pegasus to lift her head off his wing, they shared a kiss before heading to the bathroom to clean up. Funniness filled Nocturnus’s mind at remembering just how different the atmosphere was around them when they did this the first time. Never would they have felt as comfortable sharing a bathroom if they didn’t do what they did the previous night. It just left him amazed at how such a thing as mating can really do you regarding confidence. Not that Mokata wasn’t feeling the way, based on her body language and the looks she was shooting him.

Two hours of brushing, washing, and showering later, Mokata and Nocturnus headed to the Hotel Café for breakfast. It was light with customers, being a polar contrast to how it was in Ponyville’s Sugarcube Corner. Due to this, the Crusaders did not have to wait long to get a table for them to sit at and eat. Signs pointed to their morning being pleasant, up until their inevitable meeting with the rulers of the West. Just when they thought it could not get any better, the goodness of their morning was amplified by the arrival of two familiar faces. Faces that they took the time to catch up with while things were mundane and steady.

“I must say, finding out you two were staying in the same hotel as I and Rylko wasn’t something I believed we’d discover,” Clemente commented. “I had the firm impression it would be at some other establishment in the city. Alas, it seems like Lucine decided to take things into her hooves.”

“She may have, given how we met up with you again so soon.” Nocturnus chuckled as he scooted a bit closer to Mokata. “We figured we’d see you later if not this morning then in the afternoon. Selene may have lent Lucine a helping hoof to make that happen quicker.”

“Now that I’m willing to believe! Our gods are quite alike!” Clemente giggled. “Time is certainly saved for me that I would’ve spent looking for you. It also gives me some time to follow up with you about your time at the Pink Moon Festival.”

“If you’re wondering if we had fun during it, yes. Mokata and I can’t remember a time when we have so much fun.” Nocturnus confirmed contently. “Queen Ambrosia and King Ambrogino really outdid themselves.”

“Got that on the mark there,” Clemente agreed, her leonine tail swishing under the table as Rylko swatted at its tuff. “I must say, I was a little surprised that it was only you two coming. My festival normally has friends, families, and mates as a whole due to how unified it is. I usually experience that whenever someone from another place comes here. But I didn’t have that with you.”

“Well, I think you can count that as the one possible exception that you did not,” Nocturnus said, resting his face in a hoof. “Our families and friends were busy with their own things believe it or not. I was planning on coming alone because of how booked my family’s schedule was. Everyone else I asked either had no interest or threatened to do… things to me if I tried taking them here.”

Clemente’s ears went slack. “Dear me… I can only imagine how disappointing that was for you. It would be one thing for some to not be able to spend such a holiday with you, but all of them? If I didn’t know any better, the universe was deliberately trying make you be alone!”

“I literally had those same thoughts while I was going home after getting so many rejections and door slams to my face.” Nocturnus snorted, his eyes becoming half-lidded. “Fortunately for me, I ran into Mokata’s older sister and explained my situation. After that… she decided to postpone her holiday plan with Mokata and let her go with me on this trip.”

“Is that so? What a nice thing for her to do! I bet that made you quite happy!” Clemente gushed, her pink eyes gleaming like those of an owl.

“It did! Nocturnus was elated when I accepted his offer to go to another land!” Mokata replied, mushing her cheeks with her hooves. “Not that I wasn’t since I was, well… close to crying. But it was so adorable when I said yes!”

“I’d say your reaction was more adorable than mine, considering you were going to cry like a bat pup just born.” Nocturnus retaliated, nudging at the pegasus with a wing. “But if we’re both being honest, the one who felt that way about both our reactions was Fluttershy. I think we can call it even there.”

Mokata laughed in a wing of her own. “Good point.”

“My, it sounds like you have quite the caring and kind families back home,” Clemente commented as she let out a sigh. “Honestly, I’m jealous of you for having it. It makes me wish I had a thing as wonderful as that.”

Nocturnus, sensing the sudden solemn shift in the vampiress’s voice, tilted his head. “What do you mean by that? Do you... not have family Clemente?”

“I do, and we all live in the jurisdiction as all the other citizens here.” She explained. “We… aren’t on the best of terms. I haven’t spoken to them for some time since reaching the age of being able to leave without being forced back. I ran into them at the festival and… it did not end well.”

“Oh goodness. I take it that was the reason why you felt so… sour when you left?” Mokata asked sensitively.

“It's also why I turned in earlier than I intended,” Clemente added with a huff. “It’s nothing you lovelies need to concern yourselves about. Just some bad blood between family that ruined what was supposed to be a time of coming together as one.”

Palpable tension clenched the air like an eagle crushing the skull of a fox as Nocturnus and Mokata shared nervous glances. In contrast to some, neither of them had the misfortune of being born into dysfunctional families. It was thanks to the familial essence of their home and the love of relatives that they knew how a family should and should not be. From the way Clemente described her’s, she fell into the less favorable category and was far worse than she let on. Mokata and Nocturnus couldn’t imagine being in any similar situation in their families. Let alone any that they would have down the road. It helped them see how lucky they were with their upbringings, and how others were not.

“From how it sounds, it’s not something worth prying,” Nocturnus murmured. “I know this won’t mean much, but you have our condolences. Mokata and I can’t say we know what you’re going through, but we know bad blood is ugly with family. I hope no old wounds were reopened during your… reunion with your family.”

“Some ill feelings did come back upon seeing their faces, but nothing else,” Clemente said a hoof going down to rub Rylko’s head. “l would rather not think about them right now. What I do want to think about is how you two will be going about your plan.”

“You mean our plan involving the Western Queen?” Mokata inquired knowingly.

“Obviously. Not once did you bring her up during this little get-together,” Clemente replied while sitting up. “I didn’t mind since I wanted to catch up with you, but I figured you’d have brought it up at this point. Do you have a way planned out as to how you’re going to go about it? Or did you need some extra assistance?”

“No. Not really.” Nocturnus denied. “We actually talked it over while getting ready to come down here. Mokata and I planned to see the Queen after we finished breakfast. We’re sure things will get busy for them later on, and we wanted to do it before they became busier.”

“Hm… so you were opting to do it at one of the two times where they’d be most free.” Clemente hummed as she thought it over. “I must say, that is a good idea. I wanted to frolic with you more since this will probably be the last day you’ll be here, so I’m fine with the afternoon. Any other time frame would possibly throw a wrench in it.”

“We guessed you wanted to spend more time with us. You wouldn’t have been as excited as you were if you didn’t.” Mokata giggled as Rylko went to nuzzle her lap. “I’m sorry. You and Rylko.”

“As if it was not made obvious~.” Clemente laughed. “Rest assured darlings! While the hours are limited it does not mean the fun is over yet! I will see to it that the remaining time you are here is the best you’ll have!”

“I have no doubt that you will. Unless the King or Queen do something to outdo you when we see them.” Nocturnus teased as Clemente and Mokata frowned cutely at him. “Now that I’m on that topic, we do have a favor to ask of you, Clemente.”

“Is it another tour around the city?” Clemente guessed dryly.

“Not exactly,” Nocturnus replied as he suddenly grew nervous. “You know about the Royal Castle, right? That’s in the literal center of your city?”

One of the vampiress’s sugar-pink brows rose. “Yes, I do. It’s big enough for all to notice even out in the Titan Forest. Why do you ask?”

With a smile that showed every single bit of his nervousness and embarrassment, Nocturnus spat out his next words. “You wouldn’t happen to know the quickest route to it… would you?”

Contrary to what they believed, Rylko and Clemente managed to complete their trip to the Blood Moon Castle in record time. It did wonders in leaving Mokata and Nocturnus stunned because of how hard it looked to get there. Regardless, the church grim and unicorn did wonders in proving them wrong with their expert navigation skills. Barley enough time was given to the Crusaders to take it all in given how fast they went. It was a wonder they didn’t end up disoriented and even more that Nocturnus didn’t lose his breakfast. Not that any one of them would have blamed him if that did happen.

Quickness in letting the guards know of their business followed after the quartet made it to their destination. Minutes of waiting went by before they were let in and guided to where the Royal Palace was in the castle. In a surprising act of courtesy, the three equines and one dog were given comfortable seats and snacks for the wait by the royal maids. While none of them were hungry, they accepted them out of politeness and not wanting to seem rude. Until they were left alone, allowing them to store them away for later.

“How do the two of you feel right about now?” Clemente asked once the maids left. “Nervous?”

“That, and a little unfocused,” Nocturnus replied, pressing a hoof on the side of his head. “I still the effects of going so fast across the city while riding Rylko. I know you trying to get us here on record time, but did you have to make it as quick as you did?”

Clemente looked off to the side while playing with a lock of her mane. “Well… I suppose I could’ve made him go at a normal speed rather than his supernatural one. Us losing track of how much time we had to see the Queen with no interruptions must have gotten to me more than expected.”

“You think?!” Nocturnus snapped, his forehead growing a pulsing vein. “Seriously Clemente! Did you forget last night?! I almost spat up my stomach acid from how fast we rode Rylko last time! Were you trying to make all of that happen again?!”

“I’m sure that wasn’t what she was aiming for Nocturnus,” Mokata soothed, putting a comforting hoof on the stallion’s wing. “It was more or less our fault for not keeping track of time and being at that hotel café longer the necessary. Clemente was only doing what she believed was helpful for us so we could get here.”

“I get that, but the problem I have is how over the top it all was!” Nocturnus continued, calming down slightly. “You and she saw how bad my body took it when that route of transportation was chosen! I would’ve thought that Clemente would’ve taken that into account if she decided to try that again! I can see how my hopes were too high.”

“Please don’t try to excuse what I did Mokata. Nocturnus is right, I did see how much my way of transporting you affected him, but I neglected to take that to heart,” A remorseful smile smeared its way across the vampiric unicorn’s face as she looked timidly at the thestral. “I hope that you can my sincerest apologies for almost repeating history with your stomach Nocturnus. I did mean to cover you both in an aura to keep you from feeling nauseous, but… you know how that went.”

“…It’s fine. Just please be more careful next time you do what I would recommend you not doing a third time,” Nocturnus sighed as his face softened. “I felt really drained after forcing the lunch given to me and Mokata like a Zebrican Wild Dog pack feeding their pups. I don’t want to feel an even worse feeling than that.”

Laughter filled the halls as Clemente nodded. “Preventions of that will certainly come. ”

“Going back to your earlier question, we are feeling pretty nervous,” Mokata chimed. “We don’t think it’ll go bad, but we’re wondering how Queen Ambrosia will take seeing us again. It’s been almost fourteen years since she first saw us. We’re wondering if she’ll even remember our faces.”

“Yes, it would be exceptionally hard for any to remember the face of some they met as a foal and only one. But I wouldn’t be too worried about that nit bit.” Clemente murmured. “If there is one thing that mythians are known for, it is our powerful memories. Vampires have the best of all memories to the point where we can remember faces that we’ll only ever see once. I will bet a hundred bits that my Queen will know you as if she just saw you on the same night she… well…”

“Crashed our first Summer Sun Celebration and took us and our friends’ hostage in the Everfree Forest?” Nocturnus finished as Clemente nervously trailed off.

“Y-yes, that,” She replied weakly as her confidence deflated like the balloon of a hooded seal.

“If that’s the case then we really won’t have anything to worry about other than the outcome of the meeting.” Mokata chirped sweetly. “I just hope neither she nor her husband is dealing with much right now. I’d hate to have to interrupt them in the middle of their duties.”

“Well, it just became afternoon so it’s doubtful that has happened yet,” Clemente speculated as she glanced at a nearby clock. “Then again, with how generous they are with guests, it’s possible they put them on hold after being told that we’re here.”

“That’s all the luckier for us if that’s the case.” Nocturnus shrugged. “It just leaves us more time to explore the city before we head home tonight. No doubt our sisters and parents are wondering if we’re back yet.”

“Yes… or they're secretly happy to have extra time alone.” Clemente joked. “I hope both of you will be ready after your meeting because we have quite a lot to do before your departure! You’ll be leaving here with more knowledge and valuables of our land by the time you do!”

“With how much we learned and saw already, it’d make no sense if you didn’t,” Nocturnus said with a laugh of his own before his eyes sharpened. “Just be sure to remember to go easy on us if we ride Rylko around the city a third time. Or to the train station if you’re opting to do that. You’ll be getting a good dose of my Crimson Glare if you fuck that up too.”

“Your wish is my command darling,” Clemente promised with a somewhat nervous smile. “By the way, just what is this Crimson Glare that you speak of?”

Mokata shivered. “You don’t want to know.”

Hooves clopping towards them knocked at the quartet’s ears as one of the maids from before walked up to them. Chatter and potential questioning were whisked away as the ponies and church grim went to face the cayuse vampire. Stopping just a couple of feet away from them, she coughed in her hoof before letting her poised voice take the place of her walking.

“Nocturnus Yakōsei and Mokata Rosario? Our Majesties have heard your request for a meeting with the Queen.” She stated calmly. “Both have agreed to let you come see her as of now.”

“Now? As in right now?” Mokata’s ears went up in surprise. “I thought they would be a bit busier and see us later. Do they still have free time?”

“Our Queen and King are efficient workers at time management. Creating time to meet up with visitors is nothing short of child’s play for them.” The maid replied with a smile. “Please be at ease that you are not interrupting them in anything they are doing. They still have time before they have to perform the duties needed for royalty.”

“Well, if they say they can see us now, then it’s best not to keep them waiting,” Nocturnus said, taking a couple of steps forward. “Mokata, are you ready?”

“Oh, y-yes, I am. Please, lead the way, ma’am.”

“Of course,” A nod was given by the maid as she glanced at Clemente. “Are you going to be joining them, Clemente? Or will you be waiting here for them?”

“As much as I’d love to see the Queen, King, and some of my relatives here, I’m going to have to decline Isabella," The other vampiress replied with a hoof wave. “It’s about time for Rylko’s afternoon run around the city and we’re a little bit behind schedule. We’ll come back once we’re finished with our exercise. Or when Mokata and Nocturnus are ready to meet with me again.”

“Very well, then. I’ll leave you two it,” Isabella nodded, looking at the two crusaders and gesturing her head forward. “Right this way.”

“Looks like we’re on our way now Clemente,” Nocturnus said with a smile. “Thanks for joining us for breakfast, it was nice catching up with you again.”

“Thank you for letting me join you on such an occasion,” Clemente thanked, climbing atop Rylko. “Good luck with your reunion with the Queen! I pray that it will go swell!”

“I have a feeling that it might,” Mokata murmured, ignoring the doubtful look Nocturnus shot her way. “So long and have a fun run!”

“We plan to,” Clemente smirked as she gripped her church grim’s fur. “Alright, Rylko! Off we go!”

Compliantly barking, Rylko ran down the hall, his snakish tail gracefully thrashing behind him as his owner held on. Isabella, Nocturnus, and Mokata watched as they galloped down the hall, their ears filled with Clemente’s elated laughter. With a sharp turn right, they vanished down the hall, the sound of double doors busting open a second after.

“Same mare as always. She’ll never change,” Isabella chuckled with a headshake of fondness. “Shall we?”

Sharing smiles of their own, Mokata and Nocturnus followed the cayuse down the hall to the Throne Room. In the moments they were, the duo took time to admire the macabre art around them. All were completed by a ruby rug going from the end of the hall to the double doors they were nearing. Doors that had what looked to be a church grim in a sitting position with orange gemstones for eyes. It was gazed at by the flyers for just a second before they shifted it towards an excitedly smiling Isabella. Winking in a way that would’ve been seen as flirtatious, she slowly pushed the doors open.

Warm sunlight was the first thing seen by the Crusaders as the Throne Room’s interior was shown off to them. Crystalline windows of mythological creatures and sentients took it all in, shining like gemstones in the darkest of underground caves. While not standing out as much, all the statues in between them got a shine of their own, with the rug taking the rest of it. At the far end, was a set of stairs going to where the thrones were, and sitting on them, faces blank and eyes gleaming, were…

“Queen Ambrosia and King Ambrogino…” Mokata and Nocturnus whispered in unison.

“Your Majesties, I have returned,” Isabella greeted. "And I have brought the guests requesting to see you as well.”

“So you have,” Ambrogino murmured, his voice as low and smooth as it was when first heard. “I can’t help but notice you came a little later than usual. Is there a reason for that?”

“A friend of mine was here with them and we did a bit of catching up,” Isabella explained without a hint of nervousness. “They weren’t here to request an audience with you but just to help bring these two here. I apologize if I made you wait longer than necessary.”

“Apologies are not warranted for such an innocent act,” Ambrosia crooned with a motherly smile. “We understand too well how it feels to see an old face after so long.”

“Your words touch me, My Queen,” Isabella thanked with a hoof to her clothed chest. “Do you need my assistance with anything else?”

“No, that will be all Isabella. We will let you know if we need your help later on,” Ambrogino replied with a dismissing wave of his hoof. “For now, you are free to go.”

Isabella nodded. “As you wish.”

Giving one last bow to her royal leaders, the cayuse turned to head for the door. She took a brief pause to give another tender smile at Nocturnus and Mokata before exiting the room. Her departure was immediately followed by the echoing shutting of the doors. Leaving the duo at the mercy of the vampires.

“Well now, this is quite the surprise,” Ambrogino mulled after almost half a minute of silence. “I was certainly not expecting visitors just hours before our sacred event.”

“It would seem not all of them were satisfied with just seeing us at the festival.” Ambrosia giggled like a popular idol meeting a fan. “It’s not like we can really blame them for that. I’m sure at least half of our participants have seen us for the first time so it would not be a surprise if it was done for this reason.”

“Maybe so my dear, but that’s only a speculation,” Ambrogino informed, side-eyeing his wife. “I think their objective would be made clearer if we asked them outright.”

Ambrosia smiled bashfully while pushing away a lock of her mane. “Yes, that would indeed be a wise idea. It does look like they are waiting to do just that. Best we don’t keep them waiting.”

“O-oh no! You aren't keeping us waiting!” Mokata objected with frantic hoof waves. “If anything, we should be apologizing for not saying anything sooner! W-we just didn’t know what to say!”

“She’s right, we’re the ones at fault here,” Nocturnus agreed, not sounding nearly as nervous. “We already know what we came here to do, but… seeing you in the flesh like this prevented us from making it known.”

“We have an adorable child of the night and a sweet maiden of the sky. Quite the combination,” Ambrosia gushed like she was addressing two young foals. “I can just look at you and tell how close the two of you are~.”

‘If only she knew just how close we became last night.’ Nocturnus thought, his face reddening at the same time as Mokata’s.

“If the two of us made you uncomfortable, we sincerely apologize,” Ambrogino said comfortingly. “It is understandable to be when you face beings only described as fake in stories for children to listen to before bedtime. We will understand if you want to postpone this meeting for another-”

“No!” Mokata squeaked just as the Vampire King was going to finish. Quickly realizing what she did, she cleared her throat before continuing. "I mean… no thank you, my King. It’d be better if we did it now. We wouldn’t want to come in the way of any duties you’ll have later.”

“Wise choice,” Ambrosia complimented as her husband nodded with her. “Now, to what pleasure do we owe you to see us this fine afternoon?”

“See, that’s the thing,” Nocturnus began while rubbing a foreleg. “We actually came to see you.”

“…Just me?” Ambrosia asked, the faintest flash of a crack appearing on her regal face.

“Y-yes, just you,” Mokata confirmed, unable to look the vampiress in the eye. “No offense to the King, but what we’re here for involves you. And you only.”

Silence passed this reply for a moment. “I see… is there a particular reason why you want to only see me?”

“We do have it, but… it’s complicated,” Nocturnus explained feebly. “We really think it’d be best if we were just with you… please.”

“Since that’s the case, I think it would be best if the three of you went somewhere else for your meetup,” Ambrogino advised, standing up from his throne. “I will stay here and handle the duties until you come back my sweet.”

“Are you sure you want to do that love?” Ambrosia asked doubtfully. “We don’t have that much to do until things begin to stock up.”

“All the more reason you should go now,” Ambrogino insisted, setting a black hoof onto his wife’s shoulder. “I can handle the simpler things alone. We can do the more… tasking things when we’re together again.”

Ambrosia frowned but relented. “Alright, if that’s what you think is best. I only ask that you don’t strain yourself. We know how stressed you can get when you try managing things by yourself for even a single day.”

‘Try doing so for the last millennium.’ Ambrogino thought while sighing. “No promises.”

Deadpanning at her husband, Ambrosia shook her head before walking down the stairs to the pegasus and thestral. Opening her wings, she guided them back to the throne room doors before glancing back at Ambrogino. “Well then, I’ll leave you two it darling. Please don’t hesitate to come to ask for help from our assistants or knights if the need arises. We wouldn’t want you having to resort to more intimate means of relief in the middle of it.”

“Perhaps not,” Ambrogino chuckled, giving a smile that revealed all of his teeth as the trio exited the room. “Not that you would mind if we did.”

Silence filled the atmosphere between the Vampire Queen and Cutie Mark Crusader duo during their walk around the castle. It wasn’t as if they didn’t half anything to talk about, but they didn’t see any reason to talk at the moment. Just being around Ambrosia was enough to make Mokata and Nocturnus feel safe and secure about their situation. Looks from various vampires - pegasus, unicorn, and cayuse alike - were directed their way, but it didn’t bother them. It was natural to be curious about two non-vampiric beings being with someone that was the complete opposite. Let alone the ruler of all things mythical. It did make them feel just a little bashful. Much to the sheer amusement of the much older mare.

Fortune smiled at the duo in the form of Ambrosia finding a room for the three of them to be in by their lonesome. It came as a surprise to Nocturnus and Mokata that it was a bedroom rather than one for a therapist to talk with her patient. It was supposed it was because Ambrosia wanted them to feel at least a bit more comfortable in her presence. In all honestly, it was a welcome act of courtesy since they felt they would not be able to feel as vulnerable anywhere else.

“Here we are darlings! Please make yourselves comfortable!” Ambrosia as the duo entered and she closed the door. “My apologies for not choosing somewhere more standard. Most of where I would’ve chosen was or is already occupied, so this will have to do.”

“Don’t worry about it. It’s not a problem,” Nocturnus assured as he and Mokata sat at a table in between a dresser and a bed. “We probably would’ve wasted more time if we spent it searching for the best room to be in. Best to go for the first room available rather than the best one that takes longer to find.”

“Indeed. Our castle tends to be rather couped when go into our royal duties in spite of us being evening ponies,” Ambrosia agreed walking over to the table to seat herself there as well. “It leaves us not really choosing the best rooms sometimes. And only caring about if we have a place free for important business.”

Mokata gave an unbothered shake of her head. “It isn’t a problem. With the work you and our Queens have, you sometimes have to go with what’s available.”

“As the old saying goes, beggars can’t be choosers,” Nocturnus added. “And in this case, we were really limited in our choosing.”

“No words spoken have ever been truer,” Ambrosia chortled with crossed forelegs. “It makes me think about discussing expanding the castle a bit more with Ambrogino. More so if we have any fledglings in the future. It will need to happen if that happens if you’re aware of what I'm implying.”

Joyous guffawing followed that comment, helping the atmosphere to feel more comfortable. It was needed once it became silent and the trio was left without much to discuss. Something did need to be, but it felt on Mokata and Nocturnus to bring it up. A topic they reasonably found to be easier thought of than actually done. Help was quickly given when Ambrosia spoke again, asking the one question they waited, and dreaded, to hear.

“Now that we’re here with no interruptions, I would like to go back to my earlier question,” She began, putting one hoof over the other. “For what reason did you want to have an audience with me and only me? I can understand me and my husband since… we’re both the Royal Rulers, but it’s not every day only one is granted attention.”

“We were actually going get into that… but we didn’t know where to start,” Nocturnus replied as he pursed his lips. “Before we get into that, we’d like to ask you just one question.”

“And that would be?” Ambrosia pressed inquisitively.

“Do you remember what happened fourteen years ago? The incident back in Ponyville?”

“Incident?” Ambrosia repeated with a raised brow directed at Mokata. “I’m not sure I’m understanding you.”

“She means the incident that took place on a particular Fourth of July,” Nocturnus specified. “The crashing of the Summer Sun Celebration and your return from the moon. Along with… what almost happened to Queen Elianna.”

Ambrosia’s eyes became clouded. “Oh… that incident,” Her voice took on a different tone as she lowered her head. “Yes, I do recall it… I recall it considerably well in fact. So much so that I feel only occurred hours ago even though it was so long. Why do you ask?”

“W-we’re not trying to open old wounds or anything,” Mokata comforted, holding a hoof up. “It just… we asked this because we’re wondering... if you remember us.”

“…Remember you?” Ambrosia gave them a perplexed look. “Are you implying I know you too? I’m not sure if that’s the case. Usually, when I see a face once, I’m able to remember it as if I see it daily. It isn't like me not to remember a face. Even if they were once a child.”

‘Hm. Looks like Clemente was right. She can remember a face if she puts her mind to it. But I can see it’s not the case here.’ Nocturnus internally mulled. ‘I guess all that happened during the Summer Sun Blood Moon Invasion kept her from doing it properly. We’ll need to jog her memory a bit.’

“We know. We heard from one of your other subjects about vampire memories,” Mokata nodded as Nocturnus was about to speak. “Another reason why wondered if you remembered us is… it’s because we remember you. Because we were one of the several foals you abducted and too with to the Everfree.”

If there was a way to describe the look on Ambrosia’s face at this, none could be used other than complete shock. Her voice died as if those words suffocated it like a lion to a zebra after a successful hunt in the savanna. What took up most of the shock was her eyes, the pupils looking like they would disappear with how much they were contracting. A minute passed before she finally reclaimed her ability to speak. Allowing her to say just one word before going silent again.

“Y-you…!”

“Finally getting some recognition?” Nocturnus asked warmly with a sad smile.

"Crimson Moons of Selene…!” Ambrosia whispered as her body began to tremble. Light flew across her eyes as they began shaking, courtesy of the liquid rising and forming at their corners. It soon began to run down her cheeks, making parts of them a shade greyer as her lower lip quivered like a shivering chick. “It’s you!”

“Yes, your Highness. It is us. At least two out of the five of us,” Mokata confirmed with an even sadder smile. “It’s nice to see you again.”

At the pegasus’s soft expression and tender words, Ambrosia’s silent whimpers turned to full-on crying. Only the act of her hooves going up to cover her muzzle prevented it from being heard outside the room. It would certainly not bode well for her visitors if someone were to come in and see her crying. Not because she was afraid of showing her vulnerability, but because she didn’t want Nocturnus and Mokata accused of making her so. It was still hard to do, given the revelation she was just given and how important she realized it was to this little meeting. Ambrosia could already guess why they were here and see where this talk was heading along with what would be brought up. It was a conversation she was not excited about, but at the same time, one she suspected would come. Feelings of dread were still felt from it either way.

“I…I-I’m sorry for breaking down like that,” She finally said once she managed to cease her crying a bit. “I was not hurt by your words, truly. It… it was just so unexpected that I’d see the faces I once saw as young foals.”

“Not surprised in the least,” Nocturnus murmured calmly. “It has been fourteen years since you last saw any of us. Let alone me. We did grow up a lot after that nightmare of a night. And not in just the physical sense either.”

“Certainly. You do look different from how I first saw you,” Ambrosia agreed, drying her face with her wings. “To be honest, I did feel something when I saw you. Like I saw you before but couldn’t remember when or where. It appears my memory has become rather hazy since my return.”

"Yes well, that is what comes when becoming older. Even if you’re body doesn’t age physically, you still feel all of the mental and emotional side effects of becoming elderly," Mokata stated in her head while laughing a bit. “I know one a certain green earth mare farmer does.”

“Please don’t remind me,” Ambrosia dryly protested with a half-lidded look. “In any case, it is a surprise to see you after so long. You coming here at all was the last thing I expected. Of course, given what happened between us, I cannot blame you if you didn’t.”

“Yeah well, a lot of growing up and a couple of tickets to your festival changed that,” Nocturnus stated with a little adjusting of his hat. “Speaking of, while we did want to go to your homeland for it, that wasn’t our only objective for coming here.”

“Yes, I figured as much after all that you just told me,” Ambrosia said softly, looking at her hooves. “I assume you’re here to call me out for the terror I caused when you were children?”

“If we were anything like Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and some of the other ponies, maybe,” Mokata replied gently while giving a silent prayer to Faust that she wasn’t. “But no. We’re here to bury the hatchet with you~.”

Ambrosia’s head lifted up so slowly she could’ve been mistaken for a snail. “…What?”

“You heard the girl. We’re here to say that we forgive you,” Nocturnus emphasized while tapping at his ears in a scolding fashion.

“F… forgive me?!” The word came out of the Vampire Queen’s mouth like it was forbidden. “But… but why?!”

“Uh, because we want to put this behind us-” Nocturnus was interrupted when Ambrosia held out her hooves.

“No! I understand that, but why me of all creatures?!” She asked, pressing both forehooves onto her chest. “You said it yourselves! I was the one who attacked you during a time when you were supposed to celebrate as one! Don’t you remember?! I was the one who brought darkness and bloodshed to your town! I was the one responsible for abducting you and holding you as hostages! I was the one who nearly murdered one of your empresses and turned the empire your race dominated into the kingdom you’re in now! I’m responsible for all of that!”

“You are,” Mokata said simply.

“So why?!” Ambrosia demanded, standing from her chair. “I cannot fathom why you would come to my kingdom and grant my forgiveness for the sins I’ve committed against your race! Against your Empresses! Against your families! Against you! What reason do you have for doing something so honorable?! I have not done or said anything in the fourteen years that I have seen you that grants me even a little of that! Not one thing!”

It was a good question. It was an exceptionally good question. Nocturnus and Mokata didn’t have any reason to do what they did. From the external point of anyone who was at the age they were, no blame would have been put on them for it. Those who knew the Crusaders and saw what had happened would confirm every deed Ambrosia listed for why she should be forgiven. No one who experienced the horrors they did would’ve come even close to it. Especially if it was by a creature, they were raised to fear and despise. It was doubtful even the Vampire Rulers would blame them if they decided to leave and never look back. If that was what they really had planned to do and not what they agreed to actually attempt. Fortunately for Ambrosia, luck was on her side in spite of not being aware of it.

Plans were made by Nocturnus and Mokata just before arriving in her kingdom to accomplish what they wanted. Not all of it was an accomplishment since they decided not to bring the others but felt that it was for the best. Most of their other friends would’ve more than likely not responded kindly to being put in their little operation. Let alone being taken to a place where the source of their greatest nightmares would remain for good. Sad as they both were that the gang as a whole would not be together for this, the due was gonna let that stop them. Too far did they come to back out, and there was no way they were doing that now. Or else they would never be able to look each other in the eye again.

“You’re wrong,” Nocturnus said once Ambrosia calmed down. “You have done something to get the forgiveness you say you don’t deserve. Creating a peace treaty between you and our Empresses is one of them. Not to mention allowing us and other species access to your city to learn about it. You and Luna even left it up to Empress Elianna, Amalthea, and Zoe as to whether or not your subjects can explore our kingdom in spite of everything. That grants you at least some forgiveness if you ask me.”

“Maybe from them, but what about you?” Ambrosia continued as she teared up again. “Not once have I come to your home to see any of you or express my remorse for what I did to you! I have not done the same for your sisters either! You were the ones who came to see me! I don’t see that as a reason for you to mend bridges with me if I was the one who hurt you!”

“Except it is. Because we wanted to relieve ourselves - and you - of the burden that we’ve been carrying for so long,” Mokata objected patiently. “Not of the scars you left us, but of what we’ve been too scared to do since it came to mind. Which is to give you forgiveness for what you did and repay you for all you did to make amends. Yes, we could've decided not to do so and curse you as if you were a demon from the nine layers of Tartarus and leave it at that,” Her brows furrowed as her eyes of green oceans gleamed. “But that’s not what we’re going to do.”

Ambrosia’s next question came out like she was being choked by an anaconda. “…Why not?”

“Because that is not who we are as ponies,” Nocturnus replied firmly. “We’re not ones who hold grudges against those who harm us yet repent with genuineness and sincerity. I will admit even we have limits. Especially regarding those who feel no remorse and enjoy the hurt they caused to others. But if that person does what they can to prove they want to and will change, then we see no reason why they do not deserve forgiveness.”

“You make it sound like you’ll only give it if you find the strength to and it depends on what was done to you,” Ambrosia commented quietly without a hint of spite or negativity in her tone.

“Probably, but what you did isn’t any different or worse compared to what other villains did in the past,” Mokata retorted comfortingly. “And it isn’t like you killed anyone or left us orphans. It’s a win for all of us if you think about it.”

“…Maybe. Even if it doesn’t sound like it at all,” Ambrosia replied with a humorless chuckle.

“If we say it’s a win for us and you, then it’s a win for everyone,” Nocturnus declared, putting one hoof on one of the mare's own. “Whether you believe us or not, what we’re saying is the absolute truth. Everything you did? We don’t hold that against you anymore and we’ve put that part of us behind us for the sake of moving forward. I think it’s time you do the same too. If not for our sake, then for yours.”

Ambrosia found herself not able to retort on that. More because her feelings were still raw and less because she knew how to. It wasn’t like she couldn’t see their point as it wasn’t wise to hold onto negative feelings for so long. And it wasn’t like she wasn’t trying to let them go, but the weight of her actions made it harder than she thought. Nightmares of that night and occurring memories of looks of fearful trauma by those she did and did not harm didn’t help matters. Over the course of the one decade and four years since Ambrosia slowly managed on living with what was done by her hooves. She truly believed that even if those she earned the grudges of came to unleash their pain on her. And she’d be willing to accept it all.

Now that the day she dreaded and prepared for came, Ambrosia found herself doing what she swore not to do. Except it was what she did not expect from who should have hated her and not shown compassion for her. Her body, from the tips of her ears to her wings, was prepared for the lashing upon realizing who Nocturnus and Mokata were. Words that were only reserved for the vilest of beings who committed the most unforgivable of acts. Ambrosia was ready for all of that and more if there were any. Yet there was none of that.

No yelling.

No screaming.

No spewing of hatred.

And that made it more unfathomable for her.

“I must confess. A part of me knew this day would come. But at the same time, I wished it didn’t. Not because I was afraid of facing you, but of how you would react when facing me. I was so certain you would let out your hate and resentment towards me for what I made you endure,” She said after letting the words of comforting wisdom sink in. “And I would have been willing to take it all if that were to happen.”

“All the more reason why we’re taking the higher road instead of the tempting one,” Nocturnus continued, stroking the hoof in his grasp. “I’m not saying there are those who aren’t going to hate you for what you did. Some may forever see you as a demon deserving of eternal suffering with no salvation. It doesn’t mean all of them won’t. No matter how small. Sides will always be taken in regard to this subject and will continue that way long after you depart into the next life. But as long as you keep going down where you’re going now, I know more will see you as something other than what you are.”

“It’s not going to be easy. It could take years. Centuries. Probably millennium for all of the damage you did to be fixed,” Mokata began to conclude. “But with your mate, subjects, us, and anyone else willing to show kindness and give you help, you can someday count yourself as a true member of Equestria. In time.”

Subdued laughter rose from Ambrosia’s throat before it exited out her muzzle. “You know, I must admit I underestimated you. To know you not only do not hate me but forgive me and want me to let go of my guilt?" Sniffles followed her words as she stared at the duo. "It’s shocking enough to know that, but to hear hope for us to find our place in this land? Elianna, Amalthea, and Zoe truly have incredible children.”

“Hey! I’m only twenty and Mokata’s just a year older! I don’t think that counts for us being kids!” Nocturnus laughed as Mokata followed along with him.

“Maybe, but don’t forget I’m a Queen darling. I and Ambrogino see all our subjects as our children. I’m sure your Empresses feel the same way,” Ambrosia countered as the thestral frowned at her. Another giggle left Mokata as Ambrosia rubbed at her face some more. “I am truly touched by your words, Nocturnus and Mokata. Never did I think you would go out of your way to do this for me. I think I have a hint as to how amazing the Equestrian Empress’s subjects are.”

“We can’t say that for all of us, but the majority are nice. In our own ways,” Mokata said, her tone sheepish. “Do you feel better now your Majesty?”

“Very much so,” Ambrosia sighed, rubbing her eyes one last time. “I know this will be out of place right now after all you’ve just said, but I’m sorry for what happened between us. It may mean nothing now, but I am truly, truly sorry.”

“We know,” Mokata murmured, leaning forward to hug the vampiress. “We know you have been even before this.”

Nocturnus nodded as he repeated his friend’s act of affection. “And we forgive you. We already have for a long time.”

Ambrosia’s forelegs came from under the table to return her ariel counterparts’ hugs. A peaceful silence fell over the three as they let themselves bask inside the warmth of each other’s fur, legs, muzzles, and manes. It felt nice, being surrounded by so much fluff even if other parts were not as comfortable. Sweet as it was, they knew it could not last forever. A reminder that was given by the aching in their bodies that quickly awoke. A final squeeze was shared before all three parted, nearly falling back in their chairs in the process.

“My word! That was quite the conversation,” Ambrosia commented, some of her maternal sweetness slowly coming back. “I cannot remember the last time I was that emotional! I think I can count that as the third time I’ve talked to the point of in tears.”

“With what we were talking about, it would be worrying if you didn’t,” Nocturnus commented as he and Mokata rested back in their chairs. “I bet it felt nice to get it out, huh?”

“It did. I feel like a coffin has been lifted off my shoulders!” Ambrosia replied, not noticing the sweat drops her smaller visitors gave. “I was already a bit stressed since I woke up, even though I did not do much this morning. Now I feel ready to face the day. In spite of how much I hate it.”

“Why did I know we had at least that in common?” Nocturnus giggled, his tail swaying behind him.

“Now that’s some of the best news that I’ve heard today!” Mokata expressed sweetly. “I’m sure that will definitely help you in performing your duties for the rest of the day! I’m not sure if I can say the same for your husband, but you should be able to focus more on helping him!”

“If he decides to ask me. A diminutive chance of that happening,” Ambrosia grunted with a clear look of skepticism. “I do have to thank you for bringing him up though dearie. I very nearly forgot I have a certain stallion I need to make sure does not overwork himself.”

“I think that may be what’s happening from how your talk with him went,” Nocturnus speculated. “You may want to hurry over there anyway. ‘Cause something tells me you’re in for an unpleasant surprise.”

“Please don’t jinx it, love,” Ambrosia shivered as her face gained a blue tint from above. “Anywho, I must get going. I truly appreciate having this talk. Even more that you have no hard feelings are held to me for my, um…”

“Past sins?” Mokata guessed for the queen.

“Yes, that! It has truly been a help and is sure to continue doing so until tonight,” Ambrosia confimed a thankful nod. “I wish I could chat longer, but I must return to my duties. Feel free to explore the castle if you feel adventurous. Our subjects should be more than willing to help you around here since it's… well, so big.”

“I think we’re up for that!” Nocturnus said, seeing Mokata nod from the corner of her eye. “We'd like to stay here and have some time to ourselves if you don’t mind. We’re feeling a little bit out of it after that… right-in-the-feels reconciling.”

“Of course, of course! Take as much time as you need to rejuvenate yourselves! Food and drinks are available in that fridge if you want that too!” Ambrosia accepted, gesturing to a medium-sized fridge just next to the drawer. “Now, I must take my leave! My paperwork, advisors, counselors, and husband can’t be kept waiting for long! Please don’t hesitate to come and see me or my husband if you need us! Of if you just want to mingle.”

“Until then your Highness!” Mokata thanked as she and Nocturnus waved at the Queen’s retreating back.

Seconds was the only word to describe how fast the sigh that left the latter came when the door closed. Mokata looked over just in time to see Nocturnus plop down on his rump right next to her. Feeling her sense of concern flare, she went over to him and pressed her hoof against his back.

“Gleaming Fangs of Nyx!” Nocturnus breathed. “I cannot believe how well went! I thought things were gonna be worse!”

“I was expecting her to go off on us for telling her our reasons for meeting her like this,” Mokata agreed with a relief. “Looks like we were paranoid over nothing.”

“Yeah, but it was nowhere near Twilight’s level, thank our goddesses,” Nocturnus added. “It’s a bit of a bummer that everyone else didn’t come with us so they could say their peace. I wanted us to be in this together so we could fully mend bridges but… well, we just didn’t have the time.”

“I think it was best this way,” Mokata said soothingly. “Apple Bloom, Scootaloo, and Sweetie made it clear they want nothing to do with Queen Ambrosia. For now, we should let them be for a bit longer before pulling off the gauze.”

“You’re kind of making it sound like they’re rehabilitating wild animals in need of being retrained to go back to the wild,” Nocturnus commented dryly.

Mokata smiled awkwardly. “I suppose so. I guess that’s what I get for having a vet for a sibling.”

“Who's one of the best vets in Ponyville,” Nocturnus praised, making the mare’s smile soften. “Comparison aside, you did a great job with your side of our talk.”

“I could say the same for you,” Mokata returned the compliment. “You did so wonderfully I was almost going to squeal!”

“Didn’t see any tears there from where I sat,” Nocturnus criticized playfully, rubbing at the mare’s cheeks as if there were tears. “Speaking of which... I can make you squeal in another way if you’d like~.”

A doe-like blink took up a second of Mokata’s incoming response. “What do you mean?”

Without warning, the thestral suddenly grabbed the pegasus by her barrel and threw her across the air and onto the bed. A squeak popped from her muzzle as Mokata’s back hit the covers, her eyes opening only for Nocturnus to be staring back into them. Her mind already knew what was going to go down the second he got on top of her, but she was not any less surprised.

“W-wait… here? Right now?” Mokata questioned as Nocturnus began kissing her neck and rubbing at her heart-shaped chest fluff.

“I felt myself getting excited after that adorable face you gave me,” He hissed sultrily, gesturing to the slowly emerging organ rising from his sheath. “He decided he wanted to come out to play.”

Soft pink sprouted across Mokata’s cheeks like a field of blooming flowers as her friend began to play with her teats. Her legs instinctively spread as she put a hoof atop Nocturnus’s head, torn as to whether to let him continue. “B-but someone – Ah! S-someone might come in and see us!”

“We’re in a bedroom right now. I doubt someone is going to come in here even if we make a lot of noise.” Nocturnus countered in between his suckling of the pegasus. “Plus, with how this room looks, no one has been in here for a long time.”

Pausing in letting her feel the pleasure of the thestral’s fondling, Mokata took another brief look around the bedroom. Nocturnus’s statement was proven to be more justified the more she gazed at its structure. While it was nowhere near dirty or dusty, it was clear it was abandoned long ago, and no one had occupied it since. Taking that in mind, there was a chance no one else would be coming… if nobody saw Ambrosia walk out just almost a minute prior. Gut instincts told Mokata it was alright, and she didn’t have anything to worry about if she and Nocturnus mated now. She still wanted to be sure of it anyway. More so since she was getting more and more in the mood.

“Y-you’re sure?” Mokata asked as Nocturnus occupied her nipples with his lips. “Nobody is going to come here?”

“They won’t just stay out of here. I’ll make them not come here,” Nocturnus said confidently. “My gut is saying we'll be safe and we have time to screw each other. I’ll even put a ‘do not disturb sign’ for extra security if you want. How does that sound?”

Mokata didn’t reply right away, courtesy of the thestral pulling at her nipples and making a cry of pleasure make up for it instead. He let them bounce back into place and patiently waited where he was to hear her response. Mokata’s eyes first went to the door which looked to be a bit more closed for some reason. Her spheres of green then swirled to the right to plunge into Nocturnus’s eyes of pale mountain peak blue. One second of looking into them was all it took for any resistance she had to crumble and give in. All powered by her insatiable need to be fucked and filled up.

“Just… don’t go too crazy.”

Author's Note

I just want to say right now that I am so thankful this chapter did not take as long as it did then with the one with the actual clop! Seriously, a year of writer's block was something I did not want to go through again and I'm glad I got this one out sooner! A few rewrites did have to be done to build up the meeting between Nocturnus, Mokata, and the Queen. Most in the form of scene one rather than scene two, which was surprisingly the most difficult one to do. Once we got started getting to the third scene, things started going far more smoothly and I was able to get it out without spending too much time on it.

One thing about this I will say, is that I'm a little conflicted as to how I did the make up talk between Nocturnus, Mokata and Ambrosia. I wonder if i rushed it or extended it too long and took away the emotional impact I was trying to aim for. I mosly feel I didn't do either, bt a little part of me is saying that I did. Not sure if that's my anxiety talking, but I'm willing to take the other possibility. I think I'll led the readers decide that so I can take that into practice when making emotional scenes. I'm more skilled on it in the poetic sense, and I hope to be able to do that with actual storytelling.

Well, that's all for tonight everyone! I hope you enjoyed this story and maybe felt at least a little tug at your heart from the reconciliation scene there! Based on how I ended this off, I think you guys will guess how the conclusion is going to start. Whether or not it will end in a similar way, I'll leave that up to your imagination. Until then, see you all in the final chapter!

Enchanting Expirations

With her consent given, Nocturnus continued his fondling, choosing a rougher route to increase the pleasure given to Mokata. Her whimpers and moans gave a clear response as to how she was feeling, urging him to continue. Mokata laid still, allowing Nocturnus to mess her pussy and breasts up with his hooves and tongue. It helped with how comfortable the bed felt so Mokata could put all her focus on the session at hoof. She watched as he drank from her, his tongue licking at her vaginal lips at a rhythmic unified pace. Sucking and gulping sounds somehow pushed past it all to get to Mokata’s ears and send shivers down her spine. A squeak from one tug on her teats made Nocturnus look up at her blushing face and half-closed eyes and smirk at her briefly.

“What’s with that look? Still afraid that someone may walk in on us?” He asked as he pulled his lips and tongue away from Mokata’s lower body.

Panting took up Mokata’s energy for a couple of seconds before she spoke. “N-no… I just couldn’t help but notice how eager you are right now. It’s more noticeable than last time when we took each other’s virginities.”

“That’s because I’m so eager to drill you into this bed,” Nocturnus said softly with a lick of his lips. “I can feel it growing in my dick each second I don’t feel something around it. You did a great job in making him want you a lot.”

“I was just going with what I felt was the right thing to do,” Mokata explained modestly. “Are you going to put it in now?”

“Not yet. I want a bit of foreplay,” Nocturnus rejected as the pegasus began spreading her legs. “You mind switching places?”

“Do you want a blowjob?” Mokata guessed as she sat up.

“Uh-huh. I wanted to make sure you were wet as I could make you, but I didn’t want to take any chances while I was still dry,” Nocturnus replied as he plopped on the bed back first. “Plus, I miss the feeling of your mouth around my dick.”

Mokata laughed seductively. “You did enjoy your first blowjob from me, hm?” She grasped the now twitching cock on her hooves as she inhaled its sweet scent. “Alright then. I’ll make sure it feels better the second time around~.”

Kissing his cock’s midsection tenderly, Mokata went right ahead and began taking it in her mouth, using her hooves to keep it still. It twitched and pulsed between her lips as her tongue swirled all around it, taking in its rich taste. Muskiness hiked into her nose from the hormonal energy having risen, causing her eyes to water slightly. Mokata quickly blinked them away, not wanting the stallion she was currently pleasing to get the wrong idea.

“Y-you’re… sucking me off harder than I thought,” Nocturnus commented through his panting and moaning. “What’s with you today? Did you suddenly develop a taste for cock or something?”

“Maybe. I guess it’s because it’s yours and not someone else’s.” Mokata replied through the dick she was sucking. “It tastes even better than last time for some reason. I wonder why that is.”

“It’s probably because of the breakfast we had this morning,” Nocturnus murmured, gasping as Mokata temporarily swallowed down his whole length. “O-or because of that fruit drink I had this morning.”

The pegasus mare chuckled. “I think I’ll go with that.”

Flicking her tail, Mokata returned to her task lucking and sucking Nocturnus’s penis while bobbing her head in the process. His moans and grunts caressed her ears even as her taste and smell were taken up by his musk and cock. She felt her breath increase as he put his hooves on her head to push his genitals deeper and faster down her throat. Groans joined the moans of the pegasus by his aggressiveness, but she made no protests. Mokata did the same thing, so it was only normal that Nocturnus did it himself. And if it brought him more pleasure, then she’d swallow his testicles for Faust’s sake.

“Fuck, Mokata! I love your mouth!” Nocturnus groaned as he began thrusting upwards. “It feels even warmer than it did last time! It’s almost as if my dick is inside of a second pussy you have!”

“Well, you’ll be in my actual pussy in a little bit," Mokata said, putting more strength into her sucks while matching her friend's thrusts. "And I’m going to make you feel that as much as my mouth~."

Nocturnus was about to retort, but a powerful vibration from Mokata’s sudden humming made him clench his teeth. A slight grunt of pain shot past it from one of his sharper teeth almost biting into his tongue. His closed eyes prevented him from seeing the look of concern Mokata shot him, and she prepared to ask him if he was alright. Luckily for the stallion, he felt his orgasm beginning to build up in her mouth.

“D-dammit! I can’t only it in anymore!” He gasped once the pain on his tongue subsided. “I… I’m going to cum!”

Deciding to save her questioning for later, Mokata went back to her penis pleasing. Her tongue gave tender swirls and twists. As if apologizing for possibly hurting his cock with her teeth. It twitched and jumped in her mouth, its shakes preparing her for the surge of cum heading its way. With a final deepthroat and hum, Mokata pulled back and stuck her tongue out just as Nocturnus climaxed. A sigh of happiness echoed out as soon as the first stream landed on it.

Most of it entered her mouth, but a few ropes got on her face and in a little bit of her mane. Her jaws remained separated just in case there was more she wasn’t prepared for. As soon as the final rope exited, Mokata let her lips come together to keep all the cum in her maw. Her tongue swirled around it, its buds soaking up the taste before she swallowed it and focused on the pile on her mane.

“Wow… your load was twice as big this time!” Mokata breathed, gathering the remaining cum in her hooves. “It’s gooier and stickier… and stronger to the touch!”

Nocturnus grinned. “I guess it’s because my body just wasn’t used to eating as well as it did today and last night. If there’s one thing I can say the cooks here can do, is to make the body ready for a nice round of tasty sex.”

“If by tasty you mean orgasmic bodily fluids, then I think that’s something to avoid praising them about,” Mokata advised, her tongue running along the white substance she was holding.

“I’d beg to differ given how you’re tasting my spunk.” Nocturnus snorted, his fiery retort making Mokata giggle through her licks. “But yeah… I should refrain from telling the cooks how their food is making this sex feel. It may conjure up the wrong idea and… keep my cum from tasting as good for you if they decide to never serve us again.”

“Even if that happens, I think your favorite fruits will more than compensate for it,” Mokata assured, taking in the last ropes of white. “Plus, I liked it when your cum tasted fruitier anyway. Like that mango drink that you ordered at that café.”

A sultry grin reformed the grin on Nocturnus’s muzzle. “Well let’s give another part of your body a taste of that fruit, eh?”

Grabbing her foreleg, the bat-winged stallion pulled the pegasus to him. Simultaneously flipping them over in midair so he could be on top of her. As Mokata recovered from the rapid change in position, Nocturnus positioned the head of his penis in front of her entrance. He gently pushed forward, letting Mokata get a feel of it even as she spread her pussy lips to give easier access. It was thanked by Nocturnus’s dick entering, its tip against her womb and expanding her belly. A look of pleasure, a cry of joy, and a steamy kiss later, Nocturnus went to pound town. And he was not holding back in the slightest.

Sounds of her heart pounding filled Mokata’s ears as she lay underneath Nocturnus, feeling her body moving along with his. Bits of saliva stuck to her tongue and the corners of her lips as gasps, moans, and cries filled the bedroom. Nocturnus was letting out his own pleasured noises, but they were slightly subdued, partially because of the risk of being caught. While it did seem like that, Mokata suspected it was because he was focusing on feeling her insides. Just like how she was letting her insides, and vaginal walls, feel his cock.

“H-hey… you’re being too rough,” She said, pushing back some of Nocturnus’s mane so she could look at him. “I won’t be able to keep my voice down if you keep going like this!”

“You want me to go slower?” Nocturnus cooed, stroking the mare’s cheek. “I thought you liked it when I do it rough?”

“I-I do, but…” Mokata’s hooves went to grip his shoulders. “This sensation is too intense! If this keeps up, my voice is going to be heard by someone!”

“Like how a deer alerts its herd if a tiger's approaching?” Nocturnus said while using his tongue to lick her neck.

“Yes, like that…!” Mokata replied, closing her eyes while also trying not to laugh. “So, can you try doing something that can keep me from being too loud?”

Nocturnus’s face leaned down to let his forehead meet hers. “I already know what to do~.”

Puckering his lips, the thestral let them merge with Mokata’s in a kiss that was sweet but just as rough as his thrusting. Surprise contained Mokata for just a second before repeating the action, using her tongue to dance with Nocturnus'. It certainly helped to tone down her cries as the dick inside her went in and out faster and harder. Every couple of seconds Nocturnus would pull back, letting the air around them be breathed in so their lungs didn’t run out. The temptation was not lost in wanting to make it last without having to breathe in spite of it, and they were feeling it strongly.

In the middle of the make-out, the sound of what seemed to be a doorknob opening flicked at Nocturnus and Mokata’s ears. Their eyes locked onto it but saw no light, figures, or even a wide gap in between the door or entrance. It was stared at for a moment longer before they focused back on their mating. Nocturnus grabbed the back of Mokata’s head to deepen their kiss, his long tongue diving deep to feel all of her mouth. He eventually pulled away completely, letting Mokata give him an important suggestion.

“It sounds like someone went into one of the rooms between this one,” She murmured. “We should wrap this up before someone finds us.”

“Good idea, but do you mind if I try changing the positions a little bit first?” Nocturnus asked politely.

Gentleness lit Mokata's lips into a smile. “Sure. Just be fast about it. I don’t want to get scolded by the maids. Or get kicked out of the castle by the guards.”

“As you wish!” Nocturnus obeyed, half his voice taken up by a batty squeak.

Before Mokata could squeal, coo, or hug him for that he grabbed her hind legs and pushed them toward either side of her head. Mokata’s forehooves grabbed them to keep them still, letting Nocturnus plunge his dick deeper inside of her sopping vagina. Tears built up in the pegasus’s eyes from the increased intensity as well as her voice. Which was now letting out shouts and yells that replaced her cries and moans. Droplets of her juices splattered the duo’s fur, wetting the bed and making the sheets glisten in the ever-increasing light. It was all unnoticed by either flyer, whose thoughts were only occupied by getting each other off.

“It’s coming! I can feel it coming Momo!” Nocturnus warned through the merciless thrusting and sexually pleased vocalizations. “I’m about to cum again! It’s a big one this time!”

“Inside! Let it out inside me!” Mokata begged, releasing her hind legs to grab onto his waist. “Let my pussy feel your batty baby batter!”

Grinning at the somewhat accurate name for his semen, Nocturnus closed his eyes and put his power into his final thrusts. Mokata’s overflowing juices and clenching vagina did many wonders in motivating him to bring his climax closer to kingdom come. His partner felt it building inside her too like an octopus preparing to release its ink. Green and blue swirled together again, their eyes full of love, tenderness, and mind-numbing pleasure. Nocturnus then felt Mokata hug him by his neck, her eyes squinting as her orgasm neared its explosion.

One millisecond after Mokata’s juices let themselves loose, Nocturnus came, his cum managing to meet the squirts before they flew out. A clash happened for the shortest of seconds before the sperm went to its designated destination. Neighs and skrees slashed at the air like the claws of a grizzly as bliss filled the mind and bodies of the thestral and pegasus. Powerful perfectly described how the orgasms were and it was a miracle that neither of them passed out from it. Whether that was a good thing, or a bad thing is a question that would have to be asked them directly.

Forty seconds of euphoria later, Nocturnus and Mokata returned to reality, the former falling on top of the latter being the first thing done. Pants were the final sounds given to the atmosphere by them as they recovered from the humping. It then became quiet, and the crusader duo simply lay there on the bed. Letting the afterglow embrace them. Mokata made the first move, her front legs moving to hug Nocturnus around his waist. Prompting him to display an affectionate gesture of his own.

“Now that… was awesome~,” Nocturnus whispered, his nose inhaling the sweetness of Mokata’s mane. “Still in the waking world Mokata?”

Mokata’s head moved to nuzzle the thestral’s fluffy cheek. “Don’t worry, I’m wide awake. I was going to ask you the same thing, but it sounds like you’re fine.”

“Fine isn’t a strong enough word to describe how I’m feeling right now. I feel like I just went to heaven,” Nocturnus sighed, head laying in the locks of Mokata’s mane. “I can’t believe we did it in an old bedroom inside a castle.”

“I can’t believe I let you talk me into this,” Mokata said, another hoof rubbing Nocturnus’s back. “But... I was feeling pent up after what we talked about with Queen Ambrosia too. I think we can agree this was what we needed to decompress.”

“Decompress huh? Not something that I’d expect you to say. Unlike Twilight or Rarity,” Nocturnus chuckled, sitting up to look at her. “Now that we’ve satisfied our primal beasts, you want to have a little exploration around the castle? I wanna get a feel of the place.”

“I’d love to. But not just yet,” Mokata said, giving a small moan as Nocturnus slowly pulled out of her. “Let’s clean it and ourselves up first. Then we can ask one of the maids if they can help us on our exploration.”

“You’re right. Even if this bedroom is abandoned, it wouldn’t be good to leave evidence of sex in it,” Nocturnus agreed as his cum leaked from Mokata’s opening. “We totally wouldn’t want the King or Queen seeing it and getting stakes to the heart.”

“I don’t think you’ll need to worry about that.”

Freezing as if they were suddenly high-fived in the back by a polar bear, Nocturnus and Mokata’s heads swung to the door. Horrified embarrassment rushed into them at seeing Clemente leaning against the doorway. A blushing Isabella was next to her, her right hoof on the door while her left one was on her muzzle. In between them, Rylko stood silently, looking at the duo as if he had just discovered a new form of play.

“Wha… what in Nyx’s Shadow Garden are you two doing here?!” Nocturnus cried, his question aimed more at Clemente than at Isabella.

“If you’re wondering about me, I finished my town run with Rylko,” Clemente replied, a knowing smile pulling at her lips. “As for Isabella…, she was wondering where you were and just so happened to hear what you were doing.”

Mokata’s eyes increased in size as they shook. “Y-y-you were listening in on us…?!”

“No, we only got here just as you were finishing!” Clemente denied, a hoof raised in a calming gesture. “Neither of us saw anything too revealing… but the sounds and smell gave you two away.”

“Oh… so you weren’t peeping on us ?” Nocturnus asked quietly, his mane shadowing his eyes.

“No we were not You can be certain of that,” Isabella replied, regaining control of her professional mask. She winced at the blue aura appearing around the thestral, but paid it no mind, knowing it was not directed at her. “If you want, I can take care of the cleaning. You two can go where you first were if you would like to look around the castle more.”

“Thank you, Isabella. We’ll go and let you do your work so you can save us from needing to explain why this place smells like two mountain lions mated in it,” Nocturnus thanked, ignoring the look of fear Mokata was shooting him. “Before that, I have one thing I’d like to ask Clemente.”

“What would that be dear?” The vampiress blinked curiously.

Lifting his head up so the unicorn could see the flash of red that danced across his eyes, Nocturnus sweetly asked, “Can you please die for me?”

What followed afterward was a terrified scream that was drowned out by Nocturnus’s skree as he leaped off the bed and at Clemente. She stared into his blazing red eyes for a mere split-second before igniting her horn with a teleportation spell to disappear as Isabella politely moved out of the way. Doggish yelps came next as Rylko got pinned by the enraged thestral stallion, only to be let go. Looking up, he paled underneath his obsidian fur at seeing Nocturnus forcing his master back towards the bedroom's window.

“Don’t you run away!” Came the scream from the thestral. “You think you can get away with listening to our fucking?! You perverted bitch!!”

“I didn’t do it! I swear!” Clemente wailed, rivers of anime tears flying. Popping sounds shot across the air as she continued her retreat. “I only came to see you as just you were completing your fornication! I only heard you! I didn’t see you!”

“That is just as bad as watching us!” Nocturnus shot back as he hovered above the vampiress. “And don’t think I didn’t see that shit-eating grin on your face either! It just screamed you were enjoying it!”

“Enjoying what?! Being able to see you two again?!” Clemente continued in a feeble attempt to save herself. “I-if that’s what you meant, then it shouldn’t warrant you wanting to cut my life so short!”

“We both know that is just bullshit!” Nocturnus said as he hovered over his victim. “Now, if you are done with your excuses… offer me your repentance!”

Clemente - still screaming - continued evading Nocturnus, teleporting and popping into random parts of the room. Mokata and Rylko soon found themselves chasing after the two in an attempt to stop the attempted erasing of Clemente’s life. If it wasn’t for this desire, neither would have noticed Ambrogino coming up where they were running down. He stopped walking to watch the comical banter happening between the quartet before turning to a calm and amused Isabella.

“Your Majesty? I did not expect you to be coming here,” The cayuse stated. “Are you here to maybe get something from this room?”

“I was. My wife told me she believed she left her shoes when coming back to our Throne Room,” He replied in bemusement. “Care to tell me what is happening, Isabella? It would seem Clemente and her companions have a bit of a… dispute.”

“Nocturnus Yakōsei and Mokata Rosario were in this room about one moment ago. We stumbled upon the aftereffects of their… procreating,” Isabella said tentatively. “Clemente came in and saw it before I did, and Nocturnus was led to believe she was peeping. Which is why he’s chasing her around like a bat swooping in on a moth.”

“Ah, so they decided to have a session of intimacy... no wonder Ambrosia looked so amused upon her return,” Ambrogino murmured, glancing into the room to see the proof it contained.

“I suppose she had an inkling they were going that route,” Isabella continued thoughtfully. "But I don’t think she anticipated Clemente’s timing near the end of it.”

“When has my dear wife ever anticipated such a thing?” Ambrosia sighed redirecting himself back to where he walked. “I will stop them. Please get her shoes after you are done cleaning. I would hate to see hoofprints on the floor for the umpteenth time.”

“As you wish you majesty,” Isabella bowed turning towards the bedroom’s entrance. “One more thing… should we inform them?”

The Vampire King glanced at her with a raised eyebrow. “Inform them of what?”

“That this bedroom is one of many mating rooms belonging to you and the Queen they embraced each other in?”

Teeth clicking together echoed in the hall as Ambrogino’s fanged muzzle snapped shut, his eyes motioning to Nocturnus, Mokata, Rylko, and Clemente. He watched with as the screaming thestral all but strangled the unicorn, with Mokata and Rylko desperately trying to pull him off as she flailed about. He took another look at the bedroom - seeing the glistening juices and white stains that dampened the sheets - before coming to a decision.

“Let us not. I believe they are going through enough embarrassment today.”

Regardless of Nocturnus’s comedic efforts to end Clemente, they, Mokata, and Rylko all made the most out of their castle exploration. Ambrogino and Ambrosia were sadly not able to do so, so it all fell onto Isabella herself. Her guiding them through the castle turned out to be far more enjoyable than originally thought. It wasn’t often she got to talk much with anyone there, and Mokata and Nocturnus made her talks with them worth having. Having Clemente with her was only the icing on the cake and many laughs were shared. It came to an end when the afternoon turned to dusk, signifying the start of the evening. Which was also Clemente’s signal to give the Crusaders a final look around the city and what was left of it.

From the enchanting park gardens to the hauntingly beautiful graveyards inside the city walls, nothing was left ignored. Time was even saved to play with some church grims that had time off from grave duty. Something that gave Mokata a wonderful feeling of joy from being surrounded by so many giant fluffy puppy faces. It would be an incomprehensible problem to anyone how so much was done in such a short time, but it would be like a breeze for any that had a tour guide like Clemente. It was time well spent that came to an unwanted stop when it was time for Mokata and Nocturnus to return to the Equestrian Empire.

Desperately humorous attempts were made by Clemente and Rylko to stop them, but some help from Isabella nullified it. Unintentionally, this allowed Ambrosia and Ambrogino to come and see them off and give them a parting gift. Right after the Vampire Queen and King thanked them for lifting the former’s burdens from her shoulders with their meeting. It was followed by another hug including Ambrogino, Clemente, and Rylko for coming to learn all about their home. Promises were then asked of them to someday come back and see them when given a chance. Vows that the crusader duo was more than willing to keep, even if their lives demanded most, if not all, of their attention.

“I can’t believe we managed to cover the whole city in less than a day and a half!” Nocturnus said while licking at a caramel apple he was holding. “I thought it was going to take longer, but it felt like time really flew by! Clemente and Rylko really gave it their all this time around!”

“Well, she did say they were known around here for their annual morning, afternoon, and evening laps. Be it for exercise, business, or fun!” Mokata giggled, walking alongside Nocturnus up the path toward the Titan Forest. “It just happened to come when we needed it most! But if I’m being honest, I doubt even she was unsurprised at how quick it was. It still feels like only minutes that we rode around here! At the beginning of the afternoon too!”

“It must’ve paid off quite a bit if that comes to mind. I guess that’s what happens when you have a vampire as a tour guide and a grave-watching dog as someone to ride on!” Nocturnus laughed, adjusting his hat for emphasis. “It’s a good thing I thanked her for not making it as wild and didn’t make me puke my guts out for the third time.”

“Why would she? Clemente did promise you she would do everything in her power to make it as smooth as possible for you,” Mokata reiterated. “You did have a nasty regurgitation session right when we made out of the Titan Forest and down here.”

“Which is why I’m thankful for her taking that into consideration regarding her rides,” Nocturnus agreed, eyes shooting to the side. “But if she was to ask me, I do feel the usage of her magic as extra protection was a bit over the top for the entirety of the last one.”

Mokata’s cheeks found themselves matching the color of her eyes at the comment. Clemente wasn’t kidding when she said she’d make sure their next ride with Rylko would be safer. It was why when their final tour began, the vampiress put them in a barrier whenever Rylko ran across the city streets. Helpful as it was for Nocturnus’s motion sickness it brought up concern from watchers. To the point where some tried stopping them. Much to the annoyance of the ones in charge of it.

“Yes, I can see her putting you in her magic for the whole ride being unnecessary,” Mokata acknowledged, rubbing the back of her neck. “At least it kept us stable while Rylko was taking us around, right?”

“…Yeah," Nocturnus admitted with a little chortle. “I can’t wait to tell everyone that part of our trip. A pegasus and a thestral riding atop a dog bigger than a Kodiak Bear? That is a story that I know they’re not going to believe.”

“We’ll just have to bring them over here and show them for ourselves then,” Mokata murmured giddily before adopting a half-lidded gaze. “Assuming all of them will even want to come that is.”

“Twilight will be more than happy to come, I’m sure. Fluttershy would definitely want to come to see the animals. Pinkie Pie would want to try their food, Rarity would love to get inspiration for her dresses, and Applejack… I guess she could make a profit for her family's business.” Nocturnus mulled thoughtfully. “Not sure about my own sister though.”

“Maybe to do what we ended up doing. Minus making peace with the Western King and Queen,” Mokata replied as they entered the trees. “And the, um… intimate moments.”

“Highly doubt that last part,” Nocturnus retorted bluntly, snorting as if an ox pecker tried to pick at his nose. It was quiet for several seconds before he continued. “Subjectively speaking, I wanted to ask… how did you feel about that?”

“Feel about what?” Mokata asked perplexedly.

“The fact that you and I slept together. What do you think now that we went down that road?”

Quietness left the thestral’s question unanswered while Mokata thought it over. Truth be told, it did not leave her feeling any different about her friend or their current friendship. Other than the fact that they now technically became friends with benefits. She certainly didn’t start developing romantic feelings for Nocturnus, and based on how he still treated her, it was a mutualized feeling. Mokata certainly enjoyed the fornication no doubt, but as of now, none of what Nocturnus feared they would feel was there. Rather it was this sense of relief that she tried out something new and risky, yet exciting. And her best friend being the one she did it with was only the syrup on the pancake.

“I… don’t really feel anything from it,” Mokata replied softly. “I'm actually relieved that we did it. Something heavy was taken off my shoulders when it came to sleeping with someone for the first time. It feels nicer because you were the one I slept with, and not…”

“Some random stranger?” Nocturnus completed for the pegasus. “I feel you there Momo. I know I would not feel good about myself if my virginity was given to someone I didn’t even know. Even if you and the other girls weren’t my girlfriends, I'd rather be one of you anyway. ‘Cause you five know me personally.”

“I’m glad you feel that way about us Noctie,” Mokata crooned. “It actually makes me gladder that we did do it. Because you trusted me to not take advantage of you just because we were friends.”

“I never said anything about you taking advantage of me! I said I’m glad I did it with someone I see as a friend!” Nocturnus snapped, looking at Mokata like she was a gull that snatched his hotdog away. “You’re making it sound like I didn’t trust you to make me feel safe during the two times we fucked!”

Mokata stepped a couple of feet away in a panic. “I-I know! I know you trusted me in that aspect! I was just saying how glad I was you did after what you just told me! I didn’t mean to make it sound like you thought I’d violate that trust! I promise!”

Heaviness made up the sigh that Nocturnus gave. “No… I know it didn't. I just felt offended by how you worded it and I got upset. I know what you were really intending. Just… be more careful about how you give compliments, okay? It can be taken the wrong way.”

“Of course, I’ll be more delicate with my words next time,” Mokata nodded furiously, comfortingly kissing Nocturnus’s nose. “So, um… do you want to keep doing it?”

“Keep doing what?” Nocturnus inquisitively pressed once his cheeks stopped burning.

“Having… sex,” She blurted after a moment. “We already did it twice on this trip and I can’t help wondering if we’re going to keep doing it.”

Nocturnus tilted his head. “Do you… not want to?”

“N-no!” Mokata replied a bit too hastily before making her correction. “I don’t mind doing it with you every now and again if that’s what you want. We did become friends with benefits almost fifteen hours ago... I just wanted to know if we're going to continue it after all that’s happened.”

It was now Nocturnus’s turn to become quiet at Mokata’s questioning. Never once did he give a second thought to having a beneficial friendship relationship. Sure, they had sexual intimacy, but it wasn’t due to either of them wanting to take their bond to that level. It was only because of a mishap in the bathroom that Nocturnus and Mokata ended up doing it at all. Enjoyment was not taken out of their activity because of that, but it was clear it was for that reason alone and nothing else. Hay, Nocturnus would bet on Selene herself that he could’ve asked Mokata straight up and he still might not have given the friends-with-benefits thing a second thought. Not unless Mokata was now feeling otherwise, at least.

Genuine as his feelings were regarding that, it did not mean Nocturnus wasn’t up for that kind of relationship. Mokata was attractive and had a body that rivaled Fluttershy’s, which many believed did not come naturally. She was also sweet and caring with maternal nature which she no doubt got from her older sister. It was also wise to acknowledge how amazing she was in bed and how incredible she felt inside. Minor facts that were not quite as important, but ones the thestral still added as reasons. If he was having worries about it before, it was all gone after taking a chance with Mokata that he never had. And something told him it would only get better from here.

“Well… I was thinking we could just leave it at that and never talk about it again,” The thestral began after a few minutes of silence. “I mean, the only reason that happened was ‘cause you wanted to make it up to me for injuring me after I saw you in the hotel bathroom.”

“And because I wanted to know what it was like to mate with someone,” Mokata added gently.

“That too,” Nocturnus murmured, eyes half-lidded. “I was perfectly okay with it just being a one-time thing since there was no talk about us being fuck buddies. Or Bang Buddies as Cloud Kicker would put it… but since you asked, I wouldn’t mind continuing it if that’s what you really want.”

“You do want to keep having sex with me then?” Mokata asked with perked ears.

“I wouldn’t mind. I had a blast humping you and being ridden like a frog would a scorpion. Only without the threat of being stung and drowning,” Nocturnus replied as they shared a laugh. “If we are going to keep doing it though, we gotta be careful when you’re in estrus. I don't want to have a fledgling fifteen years before I should.”

“Me neither. As much as I’d love to have a foal with you, I’m not looking to settle down just yet,” Mokata giggled. “No matter how adorable and beautiful that foal would be.”

“I’m already imagining it,” Nocturnus murmured briefly looking off into space. “And just in case the others get surprised by one of our… sessions, we’d better tell them that we ended up doing it It’ll save us at least some embarrassment should they walk in on us.”

“We’ll just have to be extra careful to keep that from happening then,” Mokata said sweetly, not telling Nocturnus of the awful gut feeling she was just experiencing. “There’s also a chance that the girls may end up getting at least a little jealous and, um… want in on it too. Not that I’m saying it will happen but… just something to, um… contemplate.”

“I guess they’ll just have to be included in our incoming sexual escapades!” Nocturnus laughed in complete humor. “Like that’s ever going to happen!”

Mokata smiled alongside him. “You’re right, I doubt this would ever be a harem formation,” A hoof went to rub a foreleg as she looked at the ground. “But… I wouldn’t mind if it did become that.”

“What was that Momo?” Nocturnus blinked innocently.

“N-nothing! My foreleg was just a bit itchy,” Mokata squeaked with her best reassuring smile. A look of panic replaced it as a familiar sound quietly screeched into her ear. “Oh no! I can hear the last train coming! We need to go now or we’re going to miss it!”

White took its place in making Nocturnus’s coat a shade lighter as he remembered where they were supposed to be going. “Gleaming Fangs of Nyx, you’re right! Come on! Let’s get there before we end up snoozing with the Western Lions tonight!”

Not feeling like becoming cat chow for the felines of the west, Mokata followed after Nocturnus, using their remaining strength to carry their bags. In the distance, the train’s engine kept almost tauntingly screaming. Further continuing to dash the duo's hopes of avoiding being potential prey for the Titan Forest beasts.

Night taking the place of the day showed Fluttershy in the kitchen as she prepared dinner for herself and her animal companions. Hums softly left the mare as she moved the vegetables about in the pan; plates, bottles of juice, and utensils sat at the table behind her. All around her kitchen, small critters could be seen scurrying about, waiting for their own meals, including a certain not-so-bubbly bunny. Aromas of food and flowers were smelt in the air, bringing a pleasant feeling of contentment to Fluttershy as she began setting her table. Any animals that were on it obediently made way, allowing their master to set the food onto it that was clearly not meant for them.

“Alright, my little friends. I’m going to ask you to not touch any of this, okay?” Fluttershy asked in a gentle yet firm tone. “It’s for the two ponies that will be coming to see us shortly and your food is still being prepared. If I find that any of you even nibbled this, you will be given my Solar Stare. Do you understand?”

Faint flashes of orange temporarily replaced the teal of the veterinarian’s irises as she said this, getting nods from the smaller animals in the kitchen. With a satisfied smile, Fluttershy went back and went to finish making her own plate. Seconds into doing so, long white ears suddenly poked out in the corner of her right eye. Fluttershy did not even need to turn her head to see the owner of them, as she knew who it was. It was an action she still decided to do regardless, letting a soft sigh join after it.

“Cumulus, how many times do I have to tell you? Don’t stand next to me while I’m cooking at the stove,” She scolded, the annoyance in her voice overriding its gentleness. “This is the sixth time in a month that you’ve nearly risked burning yourself! What is it going to take for you to listen to me about that?”

Cumulus ignored the scolding like it wasn’t directed at him, instead going into a series of gestures with his paws. First, it was to the table’s food, then to the food that the mare was cooking, and lastly to his stomach. It did not take someone with expert knowledge of animal body language to know what he was saying.

“Yes, I know you want your food right now, but so does everyone else. And you aren’t the only one who I’m cooking for,” Fluttershy explained, setting her fork on the counter. “In case you forgot, Bubbles let me know the last train came and that Nocturnus and Mokata were seen on it while she was delivering the last of her mail. You shouldn’t be surprised that I’m cooking for them too.”

More paw motions and movements were given to her by Cumulus, once again to the food and to his stomach. Only this time, it was in a gesture that showed he had already eaten in spite of being hungry for his usual dinner. Both of Fluttershy’s cherry blossom pink brows met to form a thin line that showed her growing irritation.

“Just because you think they had plenty to eat over at the Undiscovered West doesn’t mean they had enough to last them until they came back,” Fluttershy retorted, trying to keep her voice calm. “For all I know, they could've left without having dinner because they were exploring or lost track of time. I don’t want to take the risk of them coming back hungry. Epona knows how Nocturnus gets when he doesn't have a meal.”

Letting his ears flop back against his head, Cumulus pointed to a bat hanging from a wooden perch and then at a large fruit basket next to him. Hopping over, he grabbed a mango and held it in one hand, raising it above his head like it was a trophy for the Olympics. While still looking at her, he dropped the mango and proceeded to stomp on it with both his feet with all the strength his little body could muster. A squeak of indignation followed by a gasp of shock flew across the room as the fruit was squished like an elephant stepping on a beetle. Anger instantly replaced the current emotions of the mare, and at that moment her patience ran dry.

“That’s it! Off the table now mister! I am not putting up with your attitude tonight!” Fluttershy shouted, ears pinning against her skull. “And just for that, you will not be getting an extra carrot for bedtime! Now go to the living room and wait for your supper! Or you will be getting my Holy Stare instead of my Solar one!”

Realizing he pushed too far, Cumulus squeaked with fear and hopped off the table, heading right for the living room where his bed was. Fluttershy watched until he was out of sight before she turned to the smashed mango on her table. Shaking her head, she picked it up and proceeded to dump it in the trash before addressing the bat it was meant for.

“I’m so sorry about that Chenoa. I should’ve looked out for when Cumulus was going to ruin the fruit I said I’d prepare for you,” Fluttershy apologized. “I’ll give you an extra mango for when it’s time for you to go home. How does that sound?”

Giving her best version of a smile, Chenoa gave another squeak, giving a flutter of her wings to signify her agreement. This earned a smile from Fluttershy as she took a napkin and cleaned up the mess on the counter. As the last bit of the stain was being erased, a knock on her door stopped the mare in the completion of her cleaning.

“Fluttershy?! It’s us, Mokata and Nocturnus! Are you there?!”

Dropping her napkin, Fluttershy trotted to the door, unaware of a bird going to pick up the napkin and throw it in the trash. She took a second to tidy up her mane before opening the door to see Mokata and Nocturnus standing just outside of it. Her wings opened to bring them into a feathery hug in the span of a second before they could say anything. Pulling away, she pulled them inside before closing her cottage door to keep the snow from getting in.

“Now this a nice welcome home,” Nocturnus murmured, patting the snow off his coat. “Excited to see us back Fluttershy?”

“Oh, yes! I was wondering if you were ever going to come back before the Hearth’s Warming Holiday ended!” Fluttershy said, using her forelegs to hug them by their neck again. “I’m so glad you made it back before it did! I thought I'd never see you before then!”

“Well, we weren’t planning to spend two whole days there,” Nocturnus explained as Fluttershy kissed his forehead. But some… stuff happened, and we lost track of our schedule."

“He’s right, we… got caught up in other things aside from the festivity of the… festival,” Mokata added, trying her darndest to back the thestral up. “We’re sorry if we made you feel like we didn’t want to come back at all.”

Repeating the act of affection she just did with Nocturnus, Fluttershy shook her head. “No. Don’t be, sweetheart! I know how it feels to be consumed by the excitement and wonder of something new. I’m just glad you were able to experience it together and have fun along the way.”

“You have no idea,” Nocturnus murmured pink appearing across his nose and cheeks.

“Oh, look at you too! You’re covered in snow! It must’ve come down a little bit harder than we anticipated,” Fluttershy said, patting their backs, wing, and manes. “That's okay! Some cocoa and a warm fire should help! You may want to do it quickly since I just prepared your dinner though!”

“After how long we’ve spent in the cold just now, I do not want to eat while looking like an arctic fox going into its winter coat,” Nocturnus stated bluntly, barely registering Fluttershy’s laugh as she took their bags off them. “No offense any foxes here! You all rock in white!”

Yips came from at least several of the aforementioned canines, expressing the non-offensiveness they were feeling.

“You won’t have any worries about that happening,” Fluttershy murmured sweetly, running her hoof down both crusaders’ tails. “I’m gonna make the cocoa I have left and fire extra warm. You’ll both be as toasty as cookies by the time we’re ready… to… eat…?”

“…Um, Fluttershy?” Mokata asked apprehensively, sensing the change in her sister’s body language. “What’s the matter?”

Her older sister didn’t reply, too focused on where Mokata’s and Nocturnus’s backsides were. A look of inquisitiveness was sported on her face. Like she was looking for the severity of an injured animal's wound. Her forehooves lifted up their tails for a moment before they fell back down to shield their owner’s private areas.

“Nocturnus? Mokata?” Fluttershy began calmly, looking into their eyes. “Is there something you two want to tell me?”

“W… what do you mean?” Nocturnus asked softly, leaning back from her a bit. “What is there to tell you other than what we did say?”

“I think there is something that you aren’t telling me,” She replied, walking over to stand in front of them. “Would you like to? I promise you both I won’t get mad or upset. Just be honest and we will go from there.”

Looks got shared between the crusader duo as they agonized over telling Fluttershy what they did in the midst of their folkloric trip. It was a mutual agreement that they’d tell the other crusaders of the sexual rise of their relationship. But it was not decided if they would tell their sisters of it as well. Let alone the kindest of them all. It was not known what reaction the others would have, but there was a high chance she would be the last critical about it. Nocturnus and Mokata still had a fear about Fluttershy not sticking to her word, but her past actions proved it to be the opposite. If her sincerity was not doubted before, then there was no reason to not take the plunge. If she did happen to do it anyway… well, at least they wouldn’t have the guilt of lying to her face.

“Alright, you got us. Something did happen while we were in the Western Kingdom... and it did not have anything to do with the festival, Nocturnus admitted slowly.

“Y-you see, after we attended it, we went to stay at a hotel for the night,” Mokata murmured. “It was supposed to end in us having a bath and just turning in but… something happened that kept that from happening for a bit.”

“And what would that be?” Fluttershy gently pressed, her face the definition of neutrality.

“To make a long story short, I saw Mokata in a… compromising position in the bathroom and she instinctively retaliated,” Nocturnus continued weakly, vaguely aware of Mokata stroking his back with a wing. “It led to me having an unpleasant sleep and waking up to her looking at my - uh - package. One thing led to another, and--”

“We had sex!” Mokata cried, the sudden increase in her voice scaring Nocturnus and some of the animals. “We mated right in that hotel room! We indulged ourselves in sexual intercourse and let our primal instincts take over! We kissed! We tongue-fought! We sucked off and ate each other out! We let our private parts please us in the most sacred and intimate way possible! We even did it again in a room of the castle we went to in the west! All of it! We’re sorry Fluttershy! We are so sorry!”

A silence as pregnant as a mare in labor banished the unnecessarily informative information laid out by Mokata. It was accompanied by pants as she recovered from the confession, oblivious to the bug-eyed looks Nocturnus and ninety percent of the animals around them gave her. Mokata soon came to grips with what she did, and she hide her face in her wings. Not daring to look her older sister in the eyes.

“I see… and that’s all that happened?” Fluttershy asked calmly, looking over at Nocturnus for his clarification.

“Aside from meeting new faces and having a private meeting with the Western Queen,” Nocturnus replied a bit more bravely. “Nothing else.”

Fluttershy nodded in understanding. “Well then, in that case, I have only one thing to ask.”

“A-and that is?” Mokata stammered, spreading a couple of her feathers apart to let one eye look at the older mare.

Letting her mutual look morph into a motherly smile, Fluttershy asked, “Did you two have fun mating?”

Neither crusader said anything, too overcome with shock and embarrassment as they stared gobsmacked at Fluttershy. She herself let out a mirthful laugh, enjoying the embarrassment her little sister and her new sex friend were going through.

“I know that you did. I can tell by how strong the scent is on you. I didn’t need to be in the Western Kingdom with you to figure it out,” Fluttershy explained with another hoof brush of her mane. “Not that I would ever walk in on you two like that.”

“Wait, so… y-you’re not mad at us? At me?” Nocturnus asked once he manage to speak again. “I had sex with your little sister! How are you not upset about that?!”

“Maybe because I’m not one of those siblings who try to harm the best friends of their younger siblings for doing something I know they both consented to,” Fluttershy replied warmly. “I get they don’t want their siblings hurt and are protecting them. But a lot of them let that make them gloss over the fact that sometimes, the one they’re alone with needs protection too. And they can be in just as much danger as the little brothers and sisters they want to be safe.”

She reached out and stroked the stallion’s cheek. “Fortunately for you love, you picked the sister of the one who knows of the importance of hearing both sides of a story. If it was the other girls… well, we know how that would probably end.”

“That’s… a good point,” Nocturnus said after a thoughtful contemplation. “But still, I thought you would be a little bit mad that I… took Mokata’s first time.”

Fluttershy was quiet for a little bit before speaking again. “Maybe if she were to do it with a pony or creature she never met. But I would be more upset if one forced themselves onto the other.” She turned and went back into the kitchen. “But, since it was you who Mokata mated with, and you don’t have it in you to do that, I’m not. I just hope you aren’t feeling regretful about making a decision like that.”

"No, we’re not,” Mokata said after calming down. “If anything, we’re pretty relieved we did it. Like something that was bothering us for a long time is gone.”

“Good to hear love,” Fluttershy said as she began brewing some tea. “I’m glad things ended up ending well for you during your trip. I bet you guys feel a lot better from it.”

“Believe me, we are. More than you could know,” Nocturnus murmured as he and Mokata shared a smile. ‘Can’t say the same about the other crusaders, unfortunately. Maybe they’ll change their minds somewhere down the road. For now, we’ll just let sleeping dogs lie.’

“If you don’t mind me asking, are you going to continue with this newly established relationship?” Fluttershy asked, hooves holding plates of teacups. “It’s completely fine with me, but I’m curious as to whether or not you will. Most friends don’t just have sex once and end it there.”

“Y…yes, we’ll keep going,” Mokata confirmed shyly. “We enjoyed it more than we thought and we wanted to keep it up. We talked about it back in the Titan Forest and agreed we’d have sex from time to time if we feel like it.”

“But don’t worry! We’re not gonna let our love for fucking get in the way of our lives if that’s what you’re wondering about,” Nocturnus said as Fluttershy walked back into the living room, the tea in tow. “And we’ll definitely keep from doing it under your roof if that’s what you prefer.”

“I’m not gonna stop you from mating in here if that’s what you’re wondering. Just give a warning if you’re planning to. Seeing you two in such a manner is the last thing I’d want,” Fluttershy said, giving them both their cups. “I wouldn’t recommend it with the other girls, aside from Miyako, if you two decide to include the other crusaders in your new activity. I have no problem with it. But I would take extra precautions when it comes to Rarity, Dash, Applejack, and Big Macintosh.”

Light shades of white replaced some of the colors in Mokata and Nocturnus’s faces at the accuracy of Fluttershy’s statement. Out of all the Element Bearers, Miyako, and Fluttershy were the most lenient when it came to their sisters hanging out with Nocturnus. It hardly changed as they grew, but three out of the five began exhibiting more protective behavior towards Nocturnus regarding their sisters. It didn’t upset him since he knew where they were coming from, but it hammered home the point that they wouldn’t take kindly to him sleeping with the other Crusaders. Most of all Big Mac and Applejack due to obvious reasons he already found out.

Reasons regarding religion or not wanting them to get knocked up so soon just made that truer and scarier for the thestral. He wasn’t going to dismiss the chance he’d be mating with them, but one thing Nocturnus would make sure of was that he did not impregnate them. Nice as it would be to have children with all four mares, he knew that would cause problems. Some of which he did not want to have to face whether or not he someday did form a potential harem with Mokata and the rest. Not that the harem thing would really happen either from where Nocturnus stood.

“Great idea,” Nocturnus murmured, biting his lip as he gripped the teacup in his hoof. “Not sure if sleeping with the other girls will be a thing, but we’re going to be extra careful. My fur being used for a new dress, a lightning bolt to the heart, and a smashed-in face from constant kicking is not something I want to experience. Or be the things that make me see Nyx earlier than I should.”

“I don’t think I can even bear to watch that,” Mokata moaned fearfully. “I hope to Epona we can avoid that. Or else I don’t think I can keep worshipping her anymore.”

“I think both our goddesses will be watching over you quite intently Nocturnus,” Fluttershy said confidently, giving them both a wink as she began setting up the fireplace. “If not, then you can always rely on me, Twilight, Pinkie Pie, and Miyako to protect you. We’ll always make sure that you have a back to go to.”

“S-sure thing,” Nocturnus murmured with a gulp. “We’re sorry if we made you uncomfortable with our confession Fluttershy. W-we didn’t mean any harm when we told you all that.”

“Y-yes! We're really sorry!” Mokata whimpered, looking at her sister with shaky eyes. “I shouldn’t have been so explicit! That way you wouldn’t have-!”

"It’s okay. I said I’m not upset. I know how it feels to be caught up in the bliss of sex and not care what happens. Trust me, you’re not alone loves," Fluttershy cooed. ”A blush of her own came to her face. Just try not to leave the bedsheets overly dirty if you do it here, okay? I’d have to see your mixed juices all over the covers.”

Mokata looked away as Nocturnus poked his forehooves together. “Yes, of course. We'll be sure to be extra attentive.”

“Good. I’m glad we can avoid these little situations in the future,” Fluttershy said sweetly, giving a nod as she turned back to the fireplace. Comfortable silence replaced the embarrassing atmosphere as the duo sat and drank, watching Fluttershy light the fire to the wood in front of her. For a few minutes, nothing was said, and Nocturnus and Mokata felt that the humiliating moments were over. Until Fluttershy’s mischievous side decided to give one more jab at her sister and - hopefully - future brother-in-law.

“Although, try not to have too much fun with each other, okay loves?” She said smoothly and all too innocently as she faced them again. “I don’t want to have a little niece or nephew too soon in the future.”

Nocturnus’s eyes bulged, his muzzle opening to spit out the tea he was drinking, right into Fluttershy’s smirking face. Soft thumps of utensils hitting the floor followed as Mokata dropped her cup, her head snapping up to meet the dripping-wet face of her sister. Chirping, yips, barks, and squeaking creatures made up for the lack of verbal responses as two crusaders gawked up at the pegasus. As quickly as it came, their voices returned to let them express their embarrassment. Doing so with just one word.

“Fluttershy!”

Author's Note

Welp... that is that everyone! Here marks the final chapter of Nocturnal Bats and Green-Eyed Angels, and the end of the first story of the Cutie Mark Crusader Clop Quest~! I will say that on one hand, while it was pretty fun to write this, on the other hand, I wish it did not take as long as it did with its old version. Nearly a whole year of writer's block? Now that is not something I'd wish on even the most rookie of writers like I once was! Alas, I know you need some time to step back so you can properly form a plan in your mind as to how to go on with a story. Let alone end it.

I... can't quite put into words how exactly I feel about this story right now. Other than the fact I'm glad I tested a couple of characters out... and improved on my clopfic skills. I guess I need to let the fact I finally completed well ahead of the new college semester so I can proceed with my plans to sink in. You know, so I can properly take in what I'll feel about this story deep down, other than how happy I am to have it finished at last. I know there will be an opinionated clash between lots of things with this story, including with its end, and that is fine. I just hope it will be constructive and not turn into a War Of The Comments in the... well, comment section.

Well, that's it for now everyone! I hope you enjoyed reading this story as much as I enjoyed writing it! I'm sorry if I make you all wait for longer than necessary as I did not expect this story to be done so... not within my designated time frame. Rest assured there will be a sequel to this, and you can see the number of them in the extended description. I'm sure it will be delayed with what will be coming in the next couple or so weeks, but I'm not giving up. I saw what doing so when you shouldn't do to me and there's no way I'm gonna let that go on! Especially how much progress I made in my writing over the years! I thank you all for reading and until next time, stay savage, stay fierce, and stay golden!