Nocturnal Bats and Green-Eyed Angels

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.”