The ponies of Equestria live safe and comfortable lives, sheltered from the grim realities of lands beyond their borders. Even the Royal Couriers, tasked with bringing messages to rulers of surrounding kingdoms, keep to established and well-protected routes to avoid the many dangers of the world around them.

Moon Petal travelled the world with her husband Starshine as Royal Couriers, meeting creatures of all kinds while serving Princess Celestia and the country they love. After learning of their first pregnancy while bringing a message to the court of Queen Novo on Mount Aris, the couple decides that returning home as quickly as possible is the top priority. The established route is long, however. Surely for this one trip, a shortcut across the Badlands will save them time.

Content warning: Prolonged physical and emotional abuse, torture, and gaslighting

Many thanks to Anal_Destroyer_0706 for the magnificent cover art!