Chapter four

Robert's plans had been progressing smoothly. His efforts toward "Project Restoration' were finally gaining momentum. After his bold stunt at the orchard, the royal guard patrols had ceased entirely the next day. Two weeks had passed without a single armored pony stepping into the forest.

"I guess I taught them a lesson," Robert muttered to himself, a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. ' It's common sense; leave food unprotected, and you'll attract trouble.'

Adding to his success was the unexpected prize he’d pilfered during his escapade on ponyville: a book belonging to a purple unicorn mare.

He mulled over her name, rubbing his beard covered chin as the firelight flickered. ' I've seen her before, what was her full name? Twilight... something? Sparkle? Eh, something like that. Nightmare Moon was too busy laughing her ass off when her friends showed up for me to care much about names."

The book had been a spur-of-the-moment grab, and he hadn’t yet delved into its contents. Now, sitting by the fire in isolation, he gave it a closer look. Its worn cover bore the title: 'The Forgotten Times: Before the Three Pony Races.' The illustration beneath the title showed a pastoral scene with towering, shadowy figures looming in the background.

Robert raised an eyebrow. "Great. Probably a kid's book, and as a betting man thanks to my old man's dad that's where my money's going." He muttered, flipping it over in his hands. "Still, better than staring at the trees all night and Star gazing. Nothing wrong with watching stars but doesn't really pass the time you know?" Robert mulled aloud as he had been doing this for a while, which wasn't exactly healthy.

He leaned back against a log, his towering frame casting a long shadow across his campsite. The flames crackled softly nearby as he opened this "borrowed" book, his thoughts drifted back to the events of its theft.

'It's not like it was my fault,' Robert mused, his lips curving into a grin. "She fell asleep on her balcony with this thing. What did she think was going to happen?"

The memory brought a chuckle out of him. The sight of Twilight slumped over her book, completely unconscious, was seared into his mind.

Granted, she looked peaceful, but Robert had a mischievous side he thought had long since withered away. Apparently, it hadn't.

And so, unable to resist, he decided to mess with the unsuspecting purple mare. Her front hoof was propped against her face buried into said hoof as she slumbered. Around her was the result of what must have been a meticulous effort: a fortress of books.

The construction was bizarre but oddly impressive. She had walls, a single small tower and what could only be described as ramparts. However, her fortress remained incomplete—there weren’t enough books to finish the roof.

Robert had considered scavenging for more books on her balcony to finish this masterpiece. But none were found;

'I mean.' He had thought, smirking to himself, 'a proper fortress needs a roof. Maybe a drawbridge too.'

But time wasn’t on his side, and he had to settle for leaving the half-finished structure as it was.

Still, as he recalled the scene, he couldn’t help but grin at the memory. 'She’s going to wake up, look at that mess, and be utterly confused,' he chuckled.

'I would’ve completed it for her, too.'

He thought wistfully, shaking his head. "It could’ve been a masterpiece." He let out a low laugh. "Too bad I couldn’t stick around to see how she reacted when she woke up."

His grin widened as he recalled waiting on the outskirts of the Everfree on purpose to just hear a distant sound of someone screaming in confusion not long after that he returned to his campsite.

"Yup, definitely got her with that."

With a shrug, he set the book firmly on his lap and leaned into the firelight, finally beginning to read. The first few pages detailed stories of a time before ponies ruled Equestria, hinting at a forgotten era where towering beings roamed the land, their power and purpose lost to myth.

Despite his earlier skepticism, Robert found himself drawn in, his curiosity growing with every word.

Something as basic as reading a book made him feel civil once again. It was a simple pleasure, flipping the pages, feeling the smooth paper against his skin; even smelling the aged paper and case of said book.

This was one pleasure in life he didn't realize he missed until now, this he definitely took for granted in the past. 'We really don’t appreciate the small things back home, do we? I certainly didn’t.'

One moment, he had been living an ordinary, unremarkable life. The next, he was thrust into a world brimming with magical creatures, where humans; who did exist here would barely manage to bang rocks together, and grunting and growling; and nashing of teeth, were regarded as the pinnacle of intelligence for the species here.

The contrast between Robert and them was stark. He could read and write, and though he utterly despised mathematics, he was more than capable of doing it.

Where there other's out there, from earth? Possibly; fate was known to be quite the unfathomable variable, that just loved being unpredictable.

Yet it didn't take long for the weight of isolation to begin bearing down on him.

'Ingoring the fact that I might be Albert Einstein's level of intelligence compared to the other humans here. Hopefully at least, I’ve got a friend in this vast, unpredictable place. Wait… Maybe two?' The thought gave him pause, a rare moment of optimism cutting through the haze of his isolation. Even here, in a world so foreign and strange, he’d managed to find a shred of companionship. Maybe things weren’t as bleak as they sometimes felt.

Before he could debate this further, a foul smell reached his nose, making him gag and cough. "What the hell is that stink?" It didn't take long to find the source, Robert looked down at his fur shirt to be the cause.

The pelts he wore, left uncured and untreated, had rotted, sending waves of nausea through him. "Burn in cleansing fire!" he shouted in frustration, tearing the furs apart and tossing them into the small blaze. Thankfully, his only source of reading material had been spared, unaffected by the small chaotic mess.

'Great, now I need a fucking bath; then I need to find some more Manticores, second times the charm. Right? Hopefully, I get this time right, I don't want to burn my clothes every time they start to reek; or rot.'

Spike's POV

Spike was comfortably nestled in his bed, relishing the weekend. Twilight had kindly given him the morning to sleep in, and he was taking full advantage of it.

With a bucket of gems beside him and his favorite comic book in hand, Spike was enjoying his weekend ritual. He was just about to pop a sapphire into his mouth when Twilight's shrill shriek pierced the quiet, sending a jolt of panic through him. Startled, he tossed his comic and snack into the air as he jumped from the bed, rushing to see what had upset his caregiver.

He found Twilight on the balcony, her magic in a frenzy as books were tossed around in a chaotic swirl. "Where is it?! Where is it?!" she wailed, her voice filled with desperation. She turned sharply, spotting Spike, and before he could react, she pounced, tackling him to the ground. "Where is the book?!" she demanded, shaking him with frantic urgency.

"MiNd TeLlInG mE wHaT BoOk?!" He stuttered out.

Twilight froze, her eyes narrowing as she gave Spike a sharp look. A noticeable red hoof mark was visible between her eyes, and her mane was a mess. "The book! The one Princess Celestia sent me!" she exclaimed, her voice rising in panic. "There was only one copy! Where did it go?!"

Spike couldn't help it; he burst into laughter. The sight of Twilight in such disarray, with her frazzled mane and flustered expression, was too much for him to resist.

"Spike!"

Twilight whined, her patience wearing thin. "This isn't the time for laughing!" She rolled off of him, her frustration mounting as she resumed her frantic search for the missing book.

Spike, still chuckling, decided to offer some advice. "Twilight, maybe you should fix yourself up first. Other Ponies can see your current condition,"

Her ears perked up at his suggestion, and she stopped, looking at him in disbelief. Without a word, she marched toward her bedroom mirror.

A few moments later, her shocked voice echoed through the room. "What in Celestia?!" she cried, staring at her reflection. Her mane was now standing on end, and the hoofprint on her face was unmistakable.

"Did you do this?!"

Spike raised his hands in defense. "What? No! I just woke up an hour ago! I thought you were already down in the library." He gave her a sheepish grin, silently reminding himself that he needed to tread carefully; Twilight wasn't exactly in the best mood.

"Twilight, just relax. I'll look for the book, okay?" he said, trying to calm her down, his tone a little more casual than usual. He stepped onto her balcony, beginning the search for the elusive book. "Just when things were getting good, in my comic book; I get dragged into this..."

Spike muttered to himself as he sifted through the area, while Twilight, still in a whirlwind of panic, left the room to scour the library.

And so they searched library, the first go provided nothing; same for the second and the third even the four try was fruitless.

Spike saw Twilight needed a moment, and so he hinted at her to take a break. While he searched for the book, the purple mare decided not to argue the point as she made herself presentable along with taking one of her prized books with herself her target had been Ponyville's park.

Closing the library door behind herself her favorite book floated behind Twilight as the anxieties began.

'I'm so bucked! How do I write a letter to Princess Celestia without sounding like I had lost the only book that she didn't make copies of!'

Twilight internally raved, as she walked on her hooves gently clicking against the simple stone path; as many citizens of this small town waved a greeting toward her, one she weakly returned when she remembered to. Or she would ignore them,

Yet upon reaching the park, it was filled with some life as younger ponies played while the adults simple talked about whatever was being discussed.

She settled onto a bench where she knew nopony would disturb her as she tried to begin reading in an effort to stop herself from having a break down. That's when a familiar pink pony arrived.

'Sweet Celestia not now Pinkie.' Twilight wanted to say but decided against it just as the bombardment started from the hyper pony.

Zoning out as she went on and on about a story, something of most of which was lost on Twilight, at the very least she had the courtesy to acknowledge Pinkie's rantings. Suddenly she hopped off, and Twilight sighed, finally getting the needed time to think.

Rubbing her face gently Twilight hoped nopony could see the fading hoof mark on her face "This is so embarrassing. If Rainbow Dash ever saw this mark, I would never hear the end of it. " She mumbled.

Fluttershy POV

Fluttershy was making good progress; the sun had reached its peak, and she was happily guiding a family of ducks along the path.

“This way, ducks. Come along now, we’re almost to the pond,” Fluttershy cooed softly, walking backward as she ensured the little line stayed together.

Just as she turned to check their path, she gently bumped into somepony—or rather, some Griffon.

“Hey! Watch where you’re going, I'm walking here!" A harsh, grating voice snapped.

Fluttershy turned quickly, her heart leaping into her throat as she came face-to-face with a tall, intimidating Griffon.

“O-oh, I’m so sorry,” she whimpered, her ears folding back.

The female Griffon sneered, her sharp beak glinting in the sunlight. “Sorry? Watch where you’re going next time, weakling!” she barked, her voice dripping with disdain.

Fluttershy tried to stammer an apology. “I-I-I didn’t mean to—”

Before she could finish, the Griffon roared, leaning in close and grabbing Fluttershy by the shoulders. “I don’t care what you meant! Get out of my sight, you worthless heap.” She snarled, her talons tightening briefly before shoving Fluttershy backward. “You’re lucky I’m in a good mood, or I’d have snacked on you instead of the feral humans I found earlier.”

The words hit Fluttershy like a thunderclap, her mind swimming with fear and helplessness as she stumbled and fell to the ground. Tears welled in her eyes, blurring her vision as the Griffon walked off with a haughty flick of her tail.

Fluttershy’s chest heaved as she scrambled back onto her hooves, her legs shaking. She wanted to say something—to stand up for herself; but the words wouldn’t come. Instead, a flood of shame and sadness consumed her. She glanced around, hoping nopony had seen the encounter. Her cheeks burned with humiliation, and she didn’t want anypony to witness her breaking down.

Her instincts urged her to flee. Her wings snapped open, and she launched into the air, heading straight for the Everfree Forest. Despite the dangers lurking within, it was the only place she could think to hide.

As she flew she spotted Pinky Pie, or it could have been her. She knew of at least a few mares who had pink coats and manes; but she hoped it wasn't her. Fluttershy didn't want her freind to see her like this,

Tears streaked down her face as she flew deeply into the dense, shadowy woods. The thick canopy above muted the sunlight, casting the forest in an eerie twilight. Finally, her wings gave out, and she collapsed into some bushes mossy was all around her on the ground, as she hid beneath a cluster of twisted trees; hoping they would shield her from everything.

Curling up, Fluttershy wept openly, the sobs racking her small frame. The weight of the Griffon’s words and the overpowering sense of powerlessness settled heavily on her. She knew the Everfree was no place for a pony, especially alone, or without informing somepony of her destination; but in that moment, she didn’t care. Here, in the dark and quiet, she could cry without judgment. She could be small, unseen, and alone.

Robert POV

Removing his fur pants wasn’t as difficult as Robert had initially thought. The makeshift garment was held together by a few simple ropes and straps, and once freed, he immediately felt the warm summer breeze against his exposed body, sending an involuntary shudder through his body.

'Time to clean up,' he thought.

With a soft splash, Robert stepped into the water, of the small lake; letting the coolness envelop him. He began scrubbing away the dirt and grime that had clung to him over the weeks, and months, the water was refreshingly crisp.

A perfect contrast to the heat of the day, and for a brief moment, he allowed himself to relax, savoring the simple pleasure of being clean.

'As clean as someone can be without soap and cleaning products, that's definitely going on the raid list.' Robert thought, wondering what else he could do for his shower thoughts.

But the moment of peace was short-lived as a more pressing thought crept into his mind; 'The colder months are coming.'

He frowned, scooping up some water In his hands and washing it through his hair and over his face. 'I might not be able to bathe all winter until late spring,'

he mused. The idea of enduring months of discomfort and filth didn’t sit well with him, but the harsh reality of survival left little room for luxuries.

'It's not like I've done it before, and I couldn't really wash when they sprayed me. At least I won't smell like wet dog, hopefully?'

Shaking the thought away for now, Robert focused on the task at hand. The water rippled softly around him as he cleaned, the summer sun shining down through the opening in the trees, reminding him to enjoy the little reprieve while it lasted.

Robert needed this moment dearly. If he were being honest with himself, he stank to high heaven. It was no wonder Zecora had been so patient with him, though he couldn’t ignore the subtle signs of her discomfort.

Every time he got too close, he noticed her scrunching her nose ever so slightly, though she never said a word about it.

'I can take a hint, Zecora,' he thought wryly.

Once he was cleaned up and feeling somewhat human again, he made a mental note to thank her and reassure her that he was doing his best to address the issue.

As he scrubbed away the last stubborn traces of grime, Robert's ears picked up a faint sound in the distance. He froze, his hands still submerged in the water.

'Is someone crying?'

The soft, muffled sobs carried faintly through the trees, almost lost amidst the gentle rustling of the leaves and the distant chirping of birds. His brow furrowed as he tilted his head, trying to pinpoint the direction of the sound.

'What the hell is someone doing out here in the middle of nowhere?'

Curiosity, mixed with a cautious sense of concern, began to gnaw at him. Drying off quickly, Robert prepared himself for whatever; or whoever—he might encounter.

Moving slowly, Robert reached for his fur pants resting atop some rocks, his movements careful and deliberate. He climbed out of the water as silently as possible, droplets of water trailing down his skin as he stepped onto the bank. Grabbing some leaves, he dried himself further, making sure not to leave any dampness that might cling uncomfortably beneath his clothes.

His gaze darted toward the direction of the sound as he pulled the pants back on, his instincts sharpening.

'Who in their right mind would be out here? And alone, no less? This might be a proper trap if this has me guessing.'

The sobs continued faintly, tugging at his curiosity and concern in equal measure. Tightening the straps on his makeshift pants, he took a deep breath and started moving toward the sound. Each step was careful, calculated, and gentle; his senses tuned to the environment around him. Whatever; or whoever—was out there, he wasn’t about to be caught off guard.

Looking over the bushes, Robert found the owner of the whimpering.

'Fluttershy, if I remember her name rightly.'

He thought, recognizing the yellow pegasus instantly.

She was the only one who hadn’t shown him outright disdain or hostility that night. Instead, she had kept her gaze soft, though nervous, clearly uncertain about me; she still showed kindness.

Robert’s mind wandered briefly to the others. Applejack, for instance, hadn’t even bothered hiding her thoughts; she’d looked him over like a predator sizing up its next meal; or worse, like a hunter assessing the most useful parts of their potential catch.

'That mare looked at me like I was walking beef on two legs,'

Robert mused dryly. Though, if he were honest, there had been something else in her eyes that unnerved him; a raw, unfiltered intensity, the kind that didn’t come from fear or hatred, but something far more primal.

'I've been around mares long enough to recognize that glint in there eyes. The horny and lust variety. and Applejack? She wasn’t judging me that night." He thought, the memory surfacing unbidden.

No, the way her sharp emerald eyes lingered on him had been something entirely different.

"She was… Appraising me." He realized, the thought sending an uncomfortable shiver down his spine.

The realization hit harder now than it had in the moment, and he couldn’t help but grimace. 'Maybe the fighting pits would’ve been a safer alternative. Just saying; at least they failed at getting reactions; Applejack I fear, would not stop until something did happen.'

Now, as he glanced back at Fluttershy, curled up and trembling, racked by sobs he found himself shaking the thought away.

Fluttershy had been different, standing out among nearly all the ponies he'd encountered—except for Zecora and that bat-pony hybrid, of course.

She didn’t seem to judge him, didn’t look at him like some strange anomaly or a threat. Instead, she showed him kindness and empathy. It was something rare, and he hadn’t known how much he’d missed it until he saw the kind natured mare, balling her eyes out in her pink mane.

'What happened to her?' He wondered, his focus returning to the present as he watched her quietly sob into her hooves. For now, Applejack's unsettling intensity was the last thing on his mind.

Instead, the soft look Fluttershy gave him had replaced the hungry stares of her friend's, lifting Robert's morale even now; and during his time in the hellish pits. It was a kindness he hadn’t known he needed, and it offered him a brief, comforting escape from the harsh reality around him.

'It's time to return the favor,'

Robert thought quietly to himself, watching the trembling mare from a distance. The task ahead was going to be delicate—getting close without startling her or causing more distress would take a great deal of care.

Fluttershy was surrounded by broken twigs and scattered leaves, making his approach even more complicated. But after what felt like an eternity, he finally managed to sit down beside her, his movements slow and deliberate to avoid shaking the ground beneath him.

Reaching out carefully, his large hand hovered over her before he gently poked her back with his finger, just enough to get her attention.

Fluttershy froze immediately, her body going stiff as her breath hitched in her throat. She turned her head slowly, wide puffy eyes locking onto Robert's. The tears that had stained her cheeks were still fresh, her eyes were red from crying so much; Fluttershy even hiccuped slughtly. As she took in his towering form, the way he loomed above her, and she shrunk back slightly, clearly startled by the sudden contact.

"O-oh, I'm so s-sorry for invading your home, Mr. Giant." She stammered, her voice shaky with embarrassment and fear. Her ears pinned against her head, her hooves twisting nervously in the dirt as she avoided his gaze, sniffling and hiccuping slightly her entire frame trembling as she awaited his response.

Fluttershy’s body went rigid the moment. Her wings fluttered at her sides, preparing her for take off. Robert saw it coming, the instinctive fear taking hold of her, and he knew exactly what she was about to do. She would bolt, and soar high into the air and escape, just like every other frightened creature before her.

But this time, Robert wasn’t going to let it happen.

In one swift movement, he reached out, his large hand closing around her gently but firmly. Her small body stiffened in his grasp, her wings instinctively flapping in an effort to break free, but he didn’t allow her to move. He held her steady, his grip not tight enough to harm but firm enough to keep her from flying away.

Fluttershy’s breath caught in her throat, her red eyes wide with panic as she twisted in his hand, trying to push against his fingers. Her body was light, almost weightless in his hold, but her fear was immense, radiating from her like a palpable force.

Robert didn’t speak, only watched her closely, aware of every tremor that ran through her small form. Her hooves scratched at his skin, her wings still flapping in an attempt to escape, but he simply held her, giving her no space to run. He could feel her heartbeat racing, thudding rapidly against his palm, her desperation filling the air.

‘I've had a flying pony like this before,’ he thought to himself, a small, bittersweet recollection of a past few moments drifting through his mind. ‘You’re not going anywhere unless I let you.’

He didn’t force her into a more comfortable position, nor did he try to calm her with words. He merely kept her close, letting the tension in the air hang between them, he wouldn't release her until she stopped struggling. Robert knew that sometimes silence and actions, spoke louder than anything words, and he wasn’t in any rush to force an interaction she wasn’t ready for.

Fluttershy’s eyes darted around in confusion and fear, but eventually, the frantic flutter of her wings slowed, her breath becoming less erratic. She had no choice but to stay still in his hand for the moment, the weight of the situation finally settling in her body.

Fluttershy squirmed in his grasp, her movements hesitant and unthreatening as though she feared provoking him. “P-please, I really need to go now,” she stammered, her voice trembling with desperation as she tried once again to wiggle free.

Robert didn’t respond, merely tilting his head slightly as an idea came to him—a way to break through her panic.

'Time to end her worries…With belly rubs.'

With the utmost care, he gently turned her onto her back, exposing her soft barrel. The shy mare's cheeks turned a deep shade of crimson, her ears flattened tighter against her head.

“U-uh,” was all Fluttershy could manage, her wide eyes staring up at him, before a surprised gasp escaped her lips. The unexpected sensation of his fingers lightly scratching her underside froze her in place.

The transformation was almost instantaneous. Her tense body began to relax as the rhythmic, soothing motion took effect. The tears and sniffles from moments ago were replaced by soft, involuntary coos and still followed by the occasional hiccup as she let out a long, trembling sigh.

“Y-you’re just an oversized angel, aren’t you?” Fluttershy squeaked, her voice barely above a whisper, her gaze flickering up at him with a mixture of awe and embarrassment.

Robert didn’t say anything, but the corners of his lips tugged up slightly in what could only be described as satisfaction. Thankfully this was only know of by him.

Fluttershy calmed under his gentle care, her trembling eased, and the tension that had gripped her earlier seemed to melt away. She let out a soft, shaky but contented sigh, her wings folding and relaxing naturally at her sides. Robert felt the shift in her demeanor and slowly loosened his hold, confident now that she had no intention of bolting—especially with the magic of stomach rubs working their charm.

'I swear, this is the skeleton key for all Ponies,'

He mused, shaking his head. 'Still, I need to get her out of here before something decides she’s an easy snack. Not that I would let that happen of course,'

Moving carefully to avoid startling her, Robert began to rise, holding her securely in his hand. Fluttershy, still drowsy and lulled by the soothing attention, murmured softly.

"Where are we going?” Her voice was barely audible, her eyelids heavy as she remained half-aware of their movements.

Robert rolled his eyes at her question but didn’t respond aloud, his steps measured as he navigated the uneven terrain of the Everfree Forest. 'You’re going home, that’s where. These woods aren’t safe for anyone, especially not someone like you.'

The towering man carried her with surprising ease, his broad frame shielding her from the occasional branch or stray bush that would have snagged her wings or body. Each step brought them closer to the forest’s edge, where the sunlight filtered through the canopy in golden streaks.

Fluttershy stirred slightly, nuzzling against his hand in her half-asleep state. “Thank you, F-for this I mean. I really needed this,” she whispered faintly, her voice carrying a trace of genuine gratitude.

Robert glanced down at her, his expression softening for just a moment before he focused ahead.

'Think nothing of it.'

Finding the way out of the forest wasn’t difficult. Once Robert reached the edge, he carefully set the pink-haired pegasus down on her hooves. The moment she touched solid ground, Fluttershy blinked, as if waking from a dream, and looked around in confusion.

"W-what?"

She murmured, her voice unsteady as she surveyed her surroundings. Slowly, she turned and caught sight of the giant still lingering just behind the tree line, his large broad form partially obscured by the faint shadows of the Everfree. "Y-you took me out of the forest?"

Robert gave a slow, deliberate nod, his expression unreadable. He stayed quiet, watching her carefully.

Fluttershy’s wings twitched nervously as she processed the situation. Her gaze darted between him and the path leading away from the Everfree Forest. Finally, she seemed to steel herself, softly flaring her wings and taking a hesitant step toward him. "C-could you come with me? I-if that's alright, of course... I mean, if it’s not too much trouble," she stammered, her voice fragile but earnest.

Robert raised an eyebrow at the unexpected request, studying her closely. 'Why would she want me to follow?' He wondered.

Yet as he pondered her request the image of her trembling form and tear-streaked face from earlier flashed through his mind. 'This doesn’t feel like a trick; those emotions they had to be genuine. Still… Better to stay cautious. This either is a professional made trap, or something completely unprecedented; at least in my opinion.'

He didn’t respond immediately, instead weighing her words and observing her body language. She seemed sincere, her gaze shy yet hopeful, and there was no trace of hostility or guile in her demeanor. After a moment, he gave a slight nod, keeping his silence.

Fluttershy’s eyes widened, a faint smile creeping onto her lips, though she still looked unsure of herself. "Thank you, for trusting me enough."

She whispered, her voice barely audible over the soft rustle of leaves. With a gentle motion of one of her front hooves, she beckoned him to follow, turning toward the path that led back to Ponyville.

Robert sighed internally. 'Alright, I’ll go along with this—for now.' With a cautious step, he trailed behind her, his massive frame blending into the shadows as the unlikely pair moved away from the forest's edge.

Gradually, Robert stepped out from the woods, ducking low to avoid most of the smaller branches snagging on his face and other exposed areas.

'Damn these smaller Trees.' He grumbled internally. 'I should really clear some of these out next time.'

Fluttershy gasped softly, her wide eyes scanning his towering figure as he straightened up. "G-goodness, you're big," she mumbled, her voice barely louder than a whisper. She hesitated for a moment.

But that was the window he needed before saying what he wanted to say; 'That's what she said!' Robert grinned slightly, at the crappy pun but it gave him his moment of entertainment.

Now having mustering the courage to speak louder, Fluttershy spoke again. "Um, this way, please." Without waiting for a response, she turned and began trotting away, her steps light but deliberate.

Robert raised a brow as he noticed her direction. It wasn’t toward Ponyville. Instead, she veered toward an offshoot path that led further into the countryside.

'This oughta be good.'

He thought, suppressing a sigh as he followed behind her; but due to the obvious size difference Robert had to delay each step so that he wouldn’t out pace Fluttershy.

Fluttershy on her part, would occasionally glanced back to make sure he was still there, though her nervous demeanor seemed to fade ever so slightly with each step.

The silence between them stayed, broken only by the crunch of Robert’s heavy footsteps, and Fluttershys hooves clicking on the ground beneath her as she walked, followed by the occasional chirping of birds.

'Where is she leading me?' He wondered, his curiosity tempered with cautious skepticism. Still, he decided to play along for now, keeping a few paces behind her as the strange journey would soon be revealed.

Celestia POV

This morning began like any other for Princess Celestia. She and Luna would meet in the 'Royal Private Chambers of the Two Sisters', a glorified meeting room where they shared quiet moments before performing their celestial duties of lowering the moon and raising the sun and vice versa.

It was a cherished time for the sisters, allowing them to bond when their schedules permitted. However, this morning, Celestia had noticed her younger sister's growing exhaustion. Luna had been neglecting sleep and meals, staying awake day and night for weeks, and the strain was beginning to show. Though she was an Alicorn, even there own bodies had limits not counting there magic.

'It is time to intervene,'

Celestia decided, her maternal concern outweighing her usual deference to Luna's independence.

As she approached the hallway leading to their chambers, a guard stepped in her path. "Your Grace, your presence is required in the throne room," he stated formally.

Celestia paused but dismissed the interruption with a soft, resolute tone. "I’m sure it can wait. I have a very important matter to address with my sister."

The guard, to her mild annoyance, moved to block her path again. "It’s urgent, Your Grace. Human hunters have encountered the Giant."

The words made Celestia stop cold. Her serene expression gave way to a flicker of concern. With a soft sigh, she relented. "Very well. Send a guard to fetch my sister. She will undoubtedly want to hear this as well."

The guard saluted crisply. "At once, Your Highness," he said before trotting toward Luna’s chambers.

Celestia turned and made her way to the throne room. The guards stationed outside the massive doors immediately stood at attention and opened them for her as she approached. Her presence was announced with practiced pomp as she entered the grand hall.

“All kneel for Her Grace, Princess Celestia! First of Her Name, Ruler of the Sun, Supreme Sovereign of the Day Army, Lady of the Three Pony Tribes, Co-Ruler of Equestria, and Protector of the Realm!”

As one, the gathered ponies bowed low as Celestia strode regally past them, her gilded hooves echoing against the marble floor. She ascended the ramp to the golden throne and seated herself, her towering presence radiating authority tempered by calm grace.

"You may rise," she said softly, her voice carrying effortlessly through the chamber.

The assembled group stood, their leader stepping forward. He was visibly uneasy, sweat glistening on his brow despite the cool air. Bowing again, he addressed her, his voice trembling slightly. "Your Grace, if we may?"

Celestia nodded gently, her kind yet piercing gaze urging him to continue. "Speak. What news do you bring?"

"We had established our campsite in the Everfree Forest for roughly five months, Your Grace," the group leader began, his unease evident in his shaky tone. "During that time, we’ve been searching for lost or abandoned humans, either to return them to their owners or to deliver them to shelters for care, and potential adoption. But recently, one of our hunters… Was killed by one human taller then any human I've ever met."

Silence hung heavy in the throne room, as if this was judgement not a hearing of public incident; though Celestia remained composed, her sharp gaze fixed on the leader. "I issued a Royal Decree warning all towns and villages near the Everfree, Appleloosa, and Dodge City to avoid the forest, and thoughs with special permission could enter. Why did you disobey my royal mandate?" She said, her voice calm but heavy with authority; while deciding to issue another question.

"Why were you there, despite these warnings?"

The leader flinched under her piercing gaze, as if staring at the very sun itself; nervously shifting his weight between his hooves. "We were unaware of the restrictions, Your Grace. Our camp had already been established and had no connection to any town or city when the announcement was issued, we were just too deep into the forest to hear of it. I assure you, we meant no disrespect."

At this moment, Princess Luna entered through the great doors, her movements as silent as her expression was weary. Despite the dark shadowy bags beneath her eyes, she stood with regal dignity, observing the conversation from the shadows without interrupting.

Yet, Celestia gave a slight nod, deciding it could have been an honest mistake on their part. Still, her curiosity; and likely Luna's as well—remained unsatisfied. She prepared to ask more questions to uncover the truth.

Celestia arched an eyebrow at the group's leader but chose not to acknowledge her sister's quiet arrival audibly. She understood the importance of maintaining respect, especially given Luna's current disheveled appearance and darkened expression made her seem more likely to lash out than to command reverence of there subjects.

Instead, Celestia turned her focus back to the group, keeping the conversation on track.

"Now to address the Elephant in the room, how did you manage to find this Giant while myself and my sister; have been searching high and low for this creature? " She asked, her tone measured but with an edge of curiosity.

The leader cast a nervous glance back at his companions, who appeared just as uneasy as he was. Clearing his throat, he continued, "We were tracking a group of escaped humans, each bearing distinct brands that marked them as property. They were heading west, deeper into the forest, when… it attacked." His voice wavered slightly at the end, and his eyes darted to the floor, as if reliving the moment.

Celestia’s expression remained composed, though her eyes narrowed with a calculating intensity. "Tell me everything about the encounter," she commanded, her voice firm and deliberate, carrying the weight of authority.

The stallion swallowed hard, beads of sweat forming on his brow as he spoke. "It... it appeared without warning. One moment, we were closing in on a pack of humans, and the next, the enormous beast crashed through the trees. It was like nothing we’d ever encountered before. It didn’t even acknowledge the branded humans. Instead, it snatched one of our hunters up and… devoured her in one bite before vanishing back into the forest."

The room fell into a heavy silence, broken only by the soft rustle of fabric as Celestia leaned back in her throne, her gaze unwavering. Her thoughtful expression revealed little, though the sharpness in her eyes spoke volumes. "And yet, you and your group are here, unharmed. How did you manage to escape?"

The leader hesitated, his voice trembling with uncertainty. "We… we ran, Your Grace. It all happened so fast. In the chaos, we scattered, that seemed to have confused the beast; so we all ran for the closest exit of the forest, which was Ponyville; and the creature didn’t follow us past the tree line. We didn’t stop running until we were at least a mile from the forest. It took us at least a week to regrouping and to do a headcount of who we lost. So far only three fatalities, or two missing Ponies."

'A Pony could never truly outrun a Giant. In the beginning, they might manage to gain some distance, but in the end, the Giant could close the gap with ease, overtaking them in a full sprint without much effort.'

At this, Luna stepped forward, her presence commanding despite her obvious exhaustion. "Sister," she said, her voice steady and clear;

"If we may speak in private about this," Luna requested, her voice calm but carrying an edge that startled the group, who had seemingly been unaware of her silent presence until now.

Celestia nodded slowly, acknowledging her sister’s request, as her gaze shifted back to the hunters. "You claim to have been unaware of the restrictions regarding the Everfree and its surrounding woodlands, and while I understand that, I cannot absolve you entirely of responsibility. Your failure to stay in contact with the proper authorities, to be aware of the new Royal restriction, has resulted in the loss of life and endangered others. Let this serve as your final warning: you and your group are to refrain from entering the forest again. Any future violations will not be tolerated, and severe consequences will follow."

The leader and his group quickly bowed, murmuring hurried apologies to both Princesses before rising trying to depart the throne room, yet Celestia wasn't done.

Before they could leave, Celestia’s voice softened slightly, a rare display of compassion, as she asked, "Before you depart, what was the name of the mare who passed?"

The leader hesitated for a moment before responding, his voice tinged with sorrow. "Star Dancer. She was one of our scouts. Back before we located those branded humans, She had decided to check east looking for them and that's where we assumed it found and followed her as she led that… monster right back to us... you know the rest of the story by now. There used to be ten of us. Now, there are only seven."

Celestia’s expression remained calm but serious as she processed the information. "Very well. What about the others in your group who are still potentially missing?" She asked, her voice steady, though there was a quiet urgency in her tone. "Can you tell me their names? Their families or potential blood relatives."

Luna’s nostrils flared, and her wings began to unfurl, the subtle shift in her stance betraying the storm of emotions brewing within her. Celestia, keenly aware of her younger sister’s temper, and affinity for givining into violence so eagerly subtly raised her hoof to halt her from intervening.

‘Not everything needs to be solved with threats and violence, Luna. When will you learn that?’ Celestia thought, her disappointment soft but clear.

She gave a quiet shake of her head, as if to quiet the rising tension. "The crowns are deeply sorry for the loss your group has suffered." She said, her voice composed and measured. "Do you know any of their families? The crowns would like to offer compensation and heartfelt apologies to them for their losses."

Her tone was one of calm professionalism, an attempt to guide the conversation back to the path of diplomacy and understanding. Luna, still visibly irritated, clenched her jaw but remained silent, her wings folding back against her sides as she allowed Celestia to take the lead.

The leader of the group’s demeanor shifted almost instantly. His eyes darted away from Celestia’s piercing gaze, and beads of sweat began to form along his brow, his tail twitching nervously. "S-Star Dancer... She never mentioned having any family, Princess." He stammered, his voice cracking slightly. "Nor did the other two ponies... that were...Possibly eaten."

His hesitation was palpable, his words faltering as though he was carefully selecting each one. Celestia noted the abrupt shift in his behavior, the way he avoided giving a direct answer. The stallion’s discomfort was growing more pronounced with each passing second, and something about his tone felt off.

The subtle omission of the other two members of the group didn't go unnoticed. It was as if they had never existed—like they were simply erased from the "Story."

Celestia's sharp, perceptive gaze remained fixed on the stallion, her expression unreadable. Her voice, barely above a whisper, was laced with suspicion as she mumbled to herself, "There’s something... not right about this story."

Luna, who had been silently observing, locked eyes with her sister. The unspoken understanding passed between them—both of them sensed that something more was hidden beneath the surface of this tale.

Celestia’s usual calm exterior flickered for a moment, her suspicions growing. Luna’s wings twitched, and though she remained silent, the shift in her posture indicated she was already preparing to act on whatever was to come next.

"Something isn't adding up." Celestia muttered, seeing so many holes in this story.

Then, with a smooth shift back into her royal composure, she addressed the leader of the group directly. "I apologize, my mind was elsewhere on a different matter. Do you mind telling me which human hunter organization your group is registered with?"

He esitated, clearly caught off guard by the question. "We are m-mostly registered with Baltimare and Las Pegasus, Your Highness."

The Princess of the Sun nodded thoughtfully. "Thank you, Mr..." She gave him a brief pause before realizing she had not been told his full name. "I'm sorry but I don't belive to know you're name. Would you mind telling me?"

He stiffened for a moment, slightly rattled by her follow-up. "Ah, my apologies, Your Highness. I am Wild Thunder, leader of this hunting party."

"Very well, Mr. Wild Thunder," Celestia said, her voice calm but resolute. "I will get into contact with those agencies and send whatever aid I can to your group. We will also make efforts to locate Star Dancer's family, as well as the families of the other ponies in your group." She paused, her gaze softening. "The hospitality of Canterlot is yours for the night."

She turned slightly, addressing her guards who stood at attention. "Guards, escort our guests to their chambers."

A small group of guards approached the ponies, bowing as they led them past Luna, who stood rigid, her eyes narrowing with a barely contained fury. Her wings fluttered slightly, her jaw clenched as if she was on the edge of exploding with emotion.

Celestia watched her sister, her expression unreadable. She knew Luna's temper, and she knew the depth of her frustration at the situation. But she also knew that sometimes, patience was the only solution.

Luna's gaze lingered on the group as they left the throne room, her nostrils flaring in irritation. She turned to her sister, her voice low and tight with restraint.

"They preach naught but falsehoods!" Luna exclaimed as soon as the doors closed behind the group. "Their tale is naught but a weaving of deceit, and their hearts filled with guile!".

Celestia rose gracefully from her throne, her steps measured as she approached her younger sister. Her voice was calm, but firm, carrying the weight of wisdom and years of rule. “And how would you disprove what those ponies claim, dear sister? True, we are the final authority in most matters, but we must still adhere to our own laws. If we did not, we would be no better than tyrants.”

This only made the night Princess even more irritated. "This doth but vex me more, sister! Had this been in the days of old, none would dare question our judgments!"

"These are not the days of old, Luna,” Celestia said gently, shaking her head. “We cannot simply make decisions and expect our subjects to follow without question.” She stepped closer, nuzzling her sister affectionately. “If you wish to prove their words false, I shall grant you one night. But know this—should you fail, I will have no choice but to allow the Royal Guards to hunt and put an end to the Giant.”

"How knowest thou that they speak not lies?" The young alicorn asked, her eyes weary, yet steeled with English?

"I cannot say for certain, but I trust you will find enough proof, Luna. I would rather not act hastily and bring unjust retribution upon a creature whose kind has existed long before the Dawn of our time."

"Thank thee, Sister. I shall begin the moment the Sun doth set." Luna moved closer, nuzzling her elder sibling before walking away, her horn faintly glowing.

In a flash of blue light, she vanished.

"Go with caution, dear sister. I trust your judgment, but remember, the stakes are high. Good luck."

Celestia muttered to herself, realizing that her earlier plans to speak with her sister about her recent self-neglect could wait. The matter of the Giant and the troubling reports had taken precedence, and her sister’s well-being would need to come second for now. She knew her younger sister well—when Luna was determined, it was nearly impossible to sway her from her course.

Robert POV

"When we get to my cottage, I have so many woodland freinds for you to meet!" Fluttershy chattered excitedly, her voice light and full of joy as she eagerly led the way. Robert could only listen, amused by her boundless enthusiasm.

'I remember when she was so shy and unsure of herself… What happened to her? Did those belly rubs do more then I expected.' Robert thought, his gaze softening as he watched her animatedly talk about the things she's openly shared.

As they approached the cottage, its cozy, inviting shape emerging on the horizon, Fluttershy let out a delighted squeal. Taking to the air with surprising grace, she fluttered up to Robert, gently wrapping her hooves around his hand. "This way, come on! We’re almost there!"

The warmth of her excitement made Robert smile, a sense of nostalgia hitting him; reminding him of simpler time, one with his family long ago.

'So this is what it feels like to have a younger sibling... always pulling you along, full of energy?'

Fluttershy suddenly stopped, her eyes widening as she took in Robert's towering figure. "Oh dear, how am I supposed to fit you inside?" she asked, a hint of panic in her voice as she looked up at him like a small bunny facing a bear.

Robert couldn't control himself as he gave her a dry humored joke.

'Carefully, and gently.' Robert thought before becoming more serious,

'I’ve got this, Fluttershy,' Robert thought again, as He moved toward an area outside the tiny cottage, carefully he sat down with a soft thud, trying not to disturb the peaceful surroundings. The ground barely shook beneath him as he settled into place, looking around at the unfamiliar scene.

'There are a lot of animals here...' Robert thought, surveying the area; he observed birds, mice, chickens, rabbits, hell even a bear was here. 'It’s charming, but there’s so many Animals in one spot. How did I miss this place when I first entered the forest? Maybe it was just small and I wasn't exactly looking for it I guess.'

Before he could think much further, a small, soft creature hopped into his lap. Looking down, he found a rabbit, its bright eyes twinkling as it sat on him. his hand instinctively reaching down to pet the little creature, the peaceful moment yet something made him pause; more specifically the genetic look it had.

As Robert glanced at the rabbits nearby, he noticed all had forward-facing eyes, a stark contrast to the typical side-facing eyes of earthly rabbits.

'That's... odd,' he thought but quickly dismissed the thought. 'Eh, whatever. I’ll just roll with it.'

He reached out to pet the rabbit, only for it to leap up and bite his finger.

'Why do all the animals here seem to want to bite me?' he grimaced in pain, just as a familiar voice rang out.

“Angel! You leave him alone! He’s done nothing to you!” Fluttershy’s voice called from the cottage.

Looking up, Robert saw Fluttershy hovering just outside her cottage. The rabbit released his finger, hopping off and scurrying away.

'Little shit,'

Robert thought as he examined the small bite, which had already begun to bleed. 'You're lucky I like rabbits. If not, I would have shoved a whole thing of garlic up you're ass and roasted you for dinner.'

Shaking his finger, Fluttershy landed beside him, looking apologetic. "I’m so sorry! Angel doesn’t do that to any other animals—only wild ones. I’ll make sure to have a word with him later." She gently placed a basket of food in his lap. "Please stay here, I’ll fix your finger."

Robert gave a small snort as she flew back into her cottage. 'I can't believe a rabbit that small actually made my finger bleed,' he thought, yet through the slight irritation Robert was still amused by the absurdity of it all.

Shaking his head, Robert began rummaging through the basket Fluttershy had given him, carefully using his uninjured hand. Inside, he found an assortment of offerings: fresh carrots, crisp apples, a jar of honey, and; much to his delight—a jar of peanut butter.

'I have acquired he holiest of foods—peanut butter.' He thought with a smirk. He picked up the glass jar carefully, mindful not to drop it. 'Can’t let this treasure shatter. It’s too sacred; and too packed with protein, to waste.'

With a satisfied nod, he set the jar aside, already planning how best to enjoy it later.

With a satisfied nod, he set the jar aside, already imagining how to savor it later.

"You found my jars," Fluttershy’s soft voice broke his train of thought. She hovered nearby, a small medkit in her front hooves; her expression nervous. "Those, um… aren’t actually for you. They’re for my bear friend, if that’s alright?"

Before he could respond, she gently took his injured hand, carefully placing it on his lap as she examined the wound.

"Oh my goodness." She stammered, her ears drooping slightly. "I didn’t think Angel could hurt another creature this badly. I’m so sorry."

Robert raised an eyebrow, his thoughts betraying his calm demeanor. 'It’s just a scratch. All I need is a Bandaid at least, not emergency surgery. Why is she acting like this is a life-or-death situation?'

She produced a bandage and a bottle of disinfectant.

"This will hurt for just a moment," the shy mare mumbled around the bottle's cap as she used her teeth to open it.

'At least she's honest about it.'

Robert thought, bracing himself. 'Wish I could say the same for Zecora.'

A sharp sting shot through his hand and up his arm as the liquid made contact with the wound, but the pain quickly subsided. Fluttershy offered him a gentle smile, her soothing voice cutting through his discomfort. "You’re doing great," she said kindly, her hooves moving delicately as she continued tending to the injury.

"There we go, good as new." She proclaimed, giving him a gentle smile.

"There we go, good as new!"

Fluttershy proclaimed softly, giving him a gentle smile as she finished wrapping the bandage.

Robert faintly smiled in return, though his thick beard mostly concealed it. Reaching up with his uninjured hand, he gently patted her head, earning a quiet sigh of contentment from the shy mare.

As she lingered for a moment, enjoying the gesture, Robert began to rummage through the remaining items of the basket she had gifted him. His relaxed focus shifted when the distinct sound of approaching...bouncing? reached his ears, prompting him to glance toward the source of the noise.

'What the hell is that sound? Wait… I know that noise. I need to hide!'

Robert’s mind raced as recognition struck. Without a moment’s hesitation, he bolted upright, moving with surprising speed for someone his size.

"Ah!"

Fluttershy yelped as the sudden motion sent her tumbling over, along with the basket and medkit, their contents scattering onto the grass.

Robert barely noticed, his instincts kicking in as he sprinted behind her cottage, seeking it as cover; that could effectively hide him, as a hyper mare shout started a conversation with Fluttershy.

""Heya, Fluttershy! I wanted to invite you to the party I'm planning for Gilda! It's going to be this afternoon!"

The bubbly voice rang out, cheerful and unmistakable.

Peeking cautiously over the grass-covered roof, Robert spotted the source—a bright pink pony bouncing energetically toward Fluttershy. 'I think her name is Pinkie Pie?' He mused before his gaze shifted toward the shy Pegasus.

Fluttershy was still sprawled on her back where he’d left her, surrounded by the scattered contents of the medkit and basket. Bits of food and medical supplies littered the dirt path, painting a rather unfortunate picture. 'That… doesn’t look too pleasant,' Robert thought, wincing slightly.

Pinkie Pie, oblivious to the scene’s awkwardness, continued to approach with her characteristic enthusiasm.

"I-I don't know if it’s a good idea for me to attend," Fluttershy muttered, her voice barely above a whisper as she shyly kicked a small pebble with her back hoof.

Pinkie Pie, as energetic as ever, suddenly bounded into the air before landing next to Fluttershy and pulling her into a tight hug. "Don’t you worry about a single thing! I’ve got 'everything' covered!" She declared with her trademark enthusiasm, practically vibrating with excitement.

Fluttershy hesitated but eventually mumbled, "Oh, um… o-okay."

Pinkie squealed in delight, squeezing her friend even tighter before letting go and zooming off, a blur of pink energy heading back toward Ponyville.

Robert, who had been carefully observing from his hiding spot, waited a few moments to ensure Pinkie was well out of sight before cautiously stepping out from behind the cottage. He walked over to Fluttershy, whose ears perked up at his approach.

'I need to show I’m sorry for what I did. You know, being a dumb animal and all.' Robert thought,

Reaching down, he gently scooped up the shy pony and gave her a few soft pats on the head. Fluttershy let out a contented coo, her ears flicking lightly at his touch.

"I-It’s okay, I forgive you,"

Fluttershy said softly, looking up at him with her gentle eyes. "I was the same way when I first met Pinkie Pie. Once you look past her hyper and loud side, and really get to know her, she’s actually very sweet. I promise." She smiled reassuringly, spreading her wings and taking to the air.

"I hate to cut this short, but I need to clean up and get ready for the party," she continued. "You know where I live, so you’re welcome to visit anytime, Giant. Oh, goodness, I’ll need to restock my medical supplies, too."

Before flying away, Fluttershy hesitated for a moment, then floated closer to nuzzle his cheek and beard gently. "Thank you," she whispered before retreating into her cottage.

‘I will never understand these Ponies,’ Robert thought, watching her front door close with a gentle click; reaching up he began scratching his head as he turned back to the mess.

Deciding to clean up the chaos he’d caused, he carefully approached the spilled basket. His main concern was whether the jar of peanut butter had survived.

‘Let’s not risk glass shards in my hand, she did hit them with her hooves during the great tumble.' He thought, grabbing a stick. Using it to move the basket carefully, he inspected the damage, making sure to avoid any sharp potential debris.

"Life is beautiful," Robert muttered, his voice muffled by a mouth full of peanut butter. He grabbed another large carrot, dunked it into the jar, and took another bite, savoring the combination. Across from him, Zecora watched with a deadpan expression, clearly unimpressed by the human's unapologetic indulgence.

"Where did you acquire that jar? Such things for you seem quite bizarre." Zecora remarked, her tone curious yet laced with her usual poetic cadence.

Robert paused mid-chew, reached for his glass water container, and took a long gulp to clear his throat. "A mare by the name of Fluttershy offered me a basket of goods." he explained, setting the jar down for a moment. "Not sure if it was to thank me for escorting her out of the forest or because one of her animals decided to bite me."

He shrugged, picking up another carrot. "Either way, I’ve claimed this jar as my own."

Zecora’s eyes narrowed slightly as she replied,
"A gift for aid should be cherished, not taken with pride. Yet your actions show no harm or greed, perhaps the Mare knew your simple need." Zecora grinned, her voice smooth and light, as she continued.

"Compared to last time, your scent’s not a fright. It no longer churns the stomach with woe, A vast improvement, as I’m sure you know."

With a final chuckle, she turned to go, heading inside to manage her wares. Leaving Robert with his peanut butter feast, other then that he shot back having somewhat understood the rhym.

"I'll be taking that as a compliment, Zecora, and before I forget. If I smell, don't be intimidated to tell me." as if on cue, she popped her head out smiling.

"Thank the heavens! Your smell was so foul,
Even flies wouldn't dare to come around,"
She mocked with a grin, her eyes full of slient mirth; Robert on the other hand grabbed a small rock, and tossed it near.

The rock hit the doorway with a soft thud,
While Zecora chuckled, at the missed projectile. "Do not worry, Giant, your scent’s not as vile, but I’d still keep my distance, just for a while."

"Quit being a smartass, Zecora, or I'll throw even bigger rocks," Robert warned, narrowing his eyes.

She ducked inside with a teasing grin, then peeked her head out of the window, her rhyme ready to begin.

"Your threats, dear Giant, bring me no fear,
For your aim is both wild and poor, I hear!" The zebra joked in response before disappearing inside.

'At least someone doesn't fear me, that's a start.'

After a short while, she returned, stepping back outside with a knowing smile.

"Though one thing remains upon my mind, a mystery I have yet to unwind."

Alright then, what’s on your mind?" Robert asked, leaning forward slightly as Zecora settled herself on the ground in front of him.

"Have you tamed the beasts of the Everfree,
Or do they still roam wild and free?" she asked with a teasing grin, her rhyming tone as sharp as ever.

This one confused him, but it didn't take long to decipher what Zecora asked.

"Oh, you mean the surprise traps?" Robert asked, raising an eyebrow.

Zecora nodded, her hoof pointing at him with precision. "Indeed, that is what I seek to know,
Have they been set where beasts may go?"

Rubbing his chin thoughtfully, Robert considered his second project, one he deemed less critical than the first.

"Oh, those traps? Yeah, I've made about three of them. They're all set and ready to go—armed to snap shut as soon as the Counterweight gets tripped."

Zecora rose to her hooves, stifling a yawn.

"The hour grows late; your tasks should not wait." She said, inching closer to Robert with an expectant gaze, clearly waiting for something.

Robert sighed, shaking his head as he reached out to scratch behind her ears.

"Every time you ask for this, I'm adding to the ear-scratching tax," he muttered, though his tone was teasing.

"Zecora cooed, "How many bits, dear friend of mine? Tell me quick, and I'll pay the fine."

"Two bits."

She huffed slightly, before turning around to go retrieve his dues. Yet, upon reaching her front door, Robert stopped her.

"Zecora, you really don't have to." Robert said, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "I was just messing around. Friends don't need to pay for a scratch behind the ears."

Zecora shot him a playful glare, but her lips curled into a small grin. "Though I’ll pay for the tax, I’ll make sure to stay, and next time, your joke shall cost you, I say."

"Is that so? Remember I have the hands here. Not you." Robert countered,

She huffed lightly, lashing her tail. "Your jokes will come back to you one way or another." Slowly he got up, "duly noted. Enjoy your afternoon and night Zecora, I'll see you around." Robert said, gathering the last of his things and heading out to finsh his work.

'Now that my state-mandated break is over, I might as well get this done.' Robert thought to himself, a determined finality setting inside him; There was no more time for rest. He had to finish this.

Having been roughly a light jog's length away from the castle ruines, Robert began searching for properly grown trees that could handle large amounts of pressure and not break.

Many trees around him towered high, their roots deep in the earth, but he knew he could tear them from the ground if he put enough force into it.

Finding one he believed to match his desired size and length, his hands gripped the rough bark of the of tree, and with a grunt of effort, he began to pull.

The strain was immediate, his muscles straining to their limits as he fought against the stubborn roots, the dirt beneath his feet shifting with each violent tug.

He wasn’t just uprooting the tree; he was wrenching the very earth itself. The sound of roots snapping and soil breaking apart echoed around him as he tore it from the ground as a loud root filled *SNAP.*

The tree brought its full weight against him, making his legs tremble slightly from the pressure.

After dragging it to the fog filled moat he dropped it in and went to retrive another tree from its place. His arms burned with the effort, but he kept going. The pain was secondary. It was nothing compared to the work that only he could do.

By the end of his labors, the air was thick with sweat, and his hands bled from the rough bark that constantly scraped against his palms as he yanked a few more trees from the ground one after another. His back screamed, his legs quivered with the effort, his breathing came in ragged deep gasps, the weight of the effort taking its toll. But Robert fought through it, his body at its breaking point, every movement fueled by a single thought: he had to finish. The night was coming, and he wasn’t leaving until the job was done.

'Come on, body! You’ve handled worse than this!'

Robert gritted his teeth, sweat stinging his eyes as he grinned through the exhaustion. His muscles screamed, his breath deep and ragged, but he wasn’t about to let up now. "I've dealt with worse weight than this—just gotta push through!"

With a roar of effort, he planted his feet, planting all his strength into another mighty pull, his body trembling from the strain. Every fiber of him ached, but his will was unbroken.

"We’ve got this, just a little more!"

He muttered under his breath, using the same grit that had gotten him through worse situations in the past. The fatigue might have been setting in, but he was determined. The tree would fall, and he'd finish this.

With a final, deafening pull, the last tree came free from its roots, crashing to the ground with a thunderous sound. Robert stood amidst the debris, panting heavily, his entire body trembling from the intense physical toll.

'I need a breather.'

Robert decided, taking a seat near the last tree his breathing sounding a little worse for wear.

'So much for getting cleaned up early; right?'

He mused watching the distant sun set.

"I just need a M-minute." Robert muttered to himself grabbing his glass bottle and drinking it with a dire need.

Finally, his task was done, he must have sat for an hour before getting back into work; it was long into the night but Robert had managed to build his way close enough toward the main gates that didn't have any kind of gate.

'First time being Bob the Builder, and I gotta say.' Robert began looking over his work.

'It looks pretty flumsy, but I'm hoping it can hold my weight long enough. And if it holds, I'm gonna need to strengthen it further.'

Robert gripped his newly made vine rope as he heaved himself put of the moat.

'If this will hurt if I mess this up.'

Robert got into position, and rolled his shoulders.

He took a deep breath and began walking backward, carefully putting distance between himself and the bridge, and his target; the gate.

His heart raced as he measured his steps. After about ten paces, he shifted gears, snapping into full sprint mode. His tired legs pumped furiously, the adrenaline surging through his veins.

'Now the real test!' Robert gritted his teeth in preparation of the bridge falling apart as he took his first thunderous step on it; the thing held up!

The stone walls he'd constructed were holding firm, and the dirt and rocks packed into the path were solid beneath his feet. He pushed forward, the culmination of his labor finally taking shape.

Yes! Just a little further. Come on baby!" he gritted out, eyes locked on his prize, determined to reach his goal without faltering.

'So far so good, just keep this up.'

He quickly closed the gap, heart pounding in his chest. Now was the time to test his luck. With a deep breath, he propelled himself forward, taking a leap of faith. His feet barely cleared the edge, and he stumbled heavily upon landing, his body jolting with the impact. He barely managed to catch himself before crashing to the ground, his head slamming against a tree that had long since rooted itself in this place.

Dazed, he grunted, feeling the bark press uncomfortably against his forehead, but the leap had been a success.

“Ow.”

Robert muttered, wincing as he rubbed his head. “But hey, on the bright side, I’m in.” He looked up at the looming crumbling castle walls, his heart pounding with both excitement and caution. “Now to see what kind of living conditions I’m dealing with. If this place doesn’t have what I need, I’m out of here. And this would have been a massive waste of my time,"

Rising to his feet, he shook off the dizziness, feeling a slight groove in his uneven step. All those hours spent digging, hauling stones, and carefully crafting his entry had finally paid off.

It was time to find out if it was worth it.

Following a heavily grass-covered, and rock-covered mess of a path, Robert found the front entrance the doors once grand and refined, now wasting away forgotten.

"If only wood and stone could talk, I can only imagine this place in its prime." For the first time since the warehouse and his enforced servitude in the pits of that city. This was the second building Robert had been able to enter.

Climbing the steps was an interesting feat; his new feet made it difficult. Who knew losing your toes, for pillar feet, was a new major adjustment, arriving at the main wooden doors, he grabbed the rusty handles, before trying to open the doors.

Robert pressed the slightest of pressures onto the handles, that made them fall off their rusty hinges. "Right, so new doors are a must. Time to make a list of new things I need to acquire."

Walking through the halls Robert had heard nothing, only his breathing, and footfalls. 'This place surely needs to be cleaned up those holes in the roof however even I can't reach them.'

Coming upon two fairly intact but ruined doors he opened them, Robert managed to squeeze inside; finding a throne room.

The room itself was dark, the moonlight was leaking in from multiple holes in the ceiling. "If this is pony made, they did let this place go. Shame too, this Castle looked rather nice from what was left behind."

Releasing a large yawn, Robert made his way over to the ruined thrones. 'This Castle is large and I most likely entered through the front of it, so tomorrow, I have a busy day checking traps, and exploring the rest of this island.'

finding a smooth area, he laid down putting his head against the golden throne's old cushion, the slightly dusty pillow made him sigh. 'I miss having pillows, no doubt I'll need to snatch a few from Ponyville or make my own.'.

Reaching up he dusted the large cushion before getting comfy looking up at the stars. 'That's one hell of a view.' before drifting off to sleep.

Luna POV

The Princess of the Night, Luna, felt a nervous flutter in her chest, much like a filly's first day of school. But this was no classroom she was about to enter. This was the vast, sleeping mind of a giant—a being far more unfamiliar and intimidating than any classroom could ever be.

'How shall I go about this? To obtain the best outcome?'

Luna pondered aloud, her thoughts swirling like the shifting shadows in the grand throne chamber. Her hooves echoed softly against the cold, stone floor as she paced, her wings twitching and tail flicking in agitation, betraying the mounting anxiety within. Her mind, caught in a tumult of uncertainty, struggled to come to terms with the gravity of her task. The weight of her new recent responsibility had been pressing down on her mind, as though the very night itself had conspired to bear down this task on her rusty shoulders, its vast expanse a reminder of the burden she now temporarily carried.

Taking in a deep breath, Luna gave a shaky exhale; before pacing the throne room passing some of her lunar guards in the process; who seemed like living statues.

She stopped by one of the many tall windows, As it told of a silently tale that happened nearly a thousand years ago.

'I recall that day; we were victorious, yet what boon did it truly bring?' The moonlight gently spilling through the stained glass window, casting long beams across the room.

'A tale for the next dreamer to ponder and gleaneth.'

Luna merely turned and continued, to observe the world. The pale light seemed to guide her as she looked out over the darkened landscape. A faint yet small breeze stirred the curtains, carrying with it the scent of the night and lavender. Luna’s horn began to glow, a soft azure light that pulsed gently, lighting the room with an ethereal glow; as she checked for the hundredth time.

Her breath held for a moment before she whispered, "Hath he fallen asleep?" Her words seemed to drift into the night, carried away by the stillness that enveloped her. She could feel the pull of his presence, distant yet near, as her thoughts reached out to find him, to save him life.

Her heart nearly stopped. He had finally slipped into the realm of dreams. The moment she had waited for had arrived. Without hesitation, Luna galloped toward the golden throne, lacking the grace an alicorn of her station usually had.

Luna's hooves thundering against the stone as she threw herself upon it. In one swift motion, she sprang into action.

The throne room dissolved into darkness, swallowed by the endless night. Stars blossomed into being around her, twinkling like distant beacons. Within moments, she was fully within her realm, but as she searched for the door to his dream, it vanished. The dream door to his dream scape was gone, slipping away like a wisp of smoke.

"Come on, where is it!"

Luna growled softly, frustration etched upon her features. She despised this part of traversing the dream realm. Finding the dreams of her little ponies was a simple feat, but this? To locate the dream of a giant, imbued with peculiar magic? Such a task was proving far more vexing.

Once within the realm, the ever-reliable tools of unicorns and alicorns alike seemed to falter, as if the very fabric of the realm conspired to obscure the doorway she sought.

At length, she found it—the door to the giant's dream. "Who would have thought Giants dream?" she mused aloud, her voice carrying a note of curiosity. "If mine memory serves, Humans do not... yet how is it he can?" Shaking her head to dispel her wandering thoughts, Luna refocused on the task at hoof, her determination unwavering.

His very life hung by a fragile thread, teetering on the precipice of doom. Should she fail, the last of the giants would perish, and the world would forever lose its connection to their mighty race. Steeling her resolve, Luna ignited her horn, its radiant glow illuminating her grave purpose. With a forceful surge of magic, she flung the door wide and stepped boldly into the depths of his mind.

Within the dream, the hour seemed to belong to her sister's radiant rule, yet this was no part of Equestria that Luna knew. Towering far above the blue alicorn, ancient trees stretched endlessly across the landscape, their canopies weaving a living tapestry above her. One tree stood apart from the rest, drawing her gaze with an almost magnetic pull—a pale, ghostly giant with leaves of deep, blood-red hues that swayed softly, as though whispering secrets to the wind. Its presence exuded both majesty and foreboding, an anchor in this unfamiliar realm.

"Is the Giant dreaming of the Dawn Age?" Luna murmured, her voice tinged with both curiosity and unease. The Dawn Age, an era shrouded in legend and wonder, was not within her domain of expertise. Such knowledge lay firmly in the realm of her elder sister.

'I was only born near the end of the Third Age.'

She thought with a hint of wistfulness. 'While Tia lived through much of the Dawn Age alongside our mother and father. If only I could have witnessed it myself.'

She sighed, her disappointment fleeting as her eyes sharpened, catching sight of her quarry. There he was, the Giant, standing amidst the dream’s otherworldly scenery, his towering figure framed by the pale tree with its crimson leaves.

"Sweet mother, he is far larger than I remember."
This of course made her wings snap open, she blushed remembering, what the giant was packing.

He disappeared into the vegetation, and out of sight. Making the Alicorn followed. 'I can't lose him, I need to test and build a chance for him!' diving threw the leaves and branches, Luna hesitated. Peeking her head out of the foliage, looking at the world around her. Almost like she was savoring it, before zooming off, through the trees.

She found him, and she saw what the youngest Princess had seen, in her studies long ago; there were graves, not of ponies, or griffins. But graves of Giants, Luna had found the truth behind the smooth and carved rocks, from the royal library all those years ago in her studies.

'I'm sorry, for what I have done to you Giant, and what needs to be done, for your survival.' Now that he was within range, Luna's horn came to life, before she zapped him, now it was time to take control of his dream.

Darkness filled the lush world, before her, now that Luna was in control. it was time to dispute the first set of falsehoods.

Robert had the same dream again, this time in greater detail, the stones he could never see, were now crystal clear. Even though they looked smooth, they were carved, something like Viking carvings. 'Every time, I have this dream I do not understand, what's being portrayed.'

Taking in his surroundings, Robert had been mistaken. This wasn't a field, as originally theorized, but in the heart of a massive woodland. 'Now that's impressive, If these trees were back home people would be losing it.'

Turning to look more, at the most standing out, tree of the area. it was alone, pale white like a birch tree, maybe even whiter. with red leaves, 'that surely is a tree I don't think I have ever seen before.' Robert couldn't do anything, else as a sudden zap, struck him in the back of the head;

He only could see darkness; until it slowly changed. Water had been dripping from the ceiling, looking up, Robert discovered he was inside some kind of cavern.

'I think I might be in a cavern or possibly underground.' truth be told, he fully believed he was alone until the giant heard a gagged whimper from behind him. 'What the?' slowly he turned to see what or who made the noise.

'What the hell is this?'

Robert thought, a volatile mix of anger and disgust bubbling in his stomach. The sight before him was grotesque and unrelenting, and for the first time in a long while, Robert felt real irritated; as he studied the bound and gagged ponies, their terrified eyes reflecting their fear and terror of him.

He couldn’t shake the question gnawing at his mind. 'How could something so dark and twisted take root in this world?' Robert’s thoughts churned as he glanced at the bound ponies.

'Sure, these Ponies aren’t saints; they treat people worse than dogs half the time—but when has any race or species ever been truly innocent? I mean people back home enslaved each other for God's sake.'

Robert mused, as he studied the depraved situation before him. 'What the hell is with this world? Either someone here forgot the safe word or they all are truly committed to this. If that isn't a kinky adult party gone bad; why are Ponies always the target of something horrific?' His hands clenched into fists, but he forced himself to stay calm. Charging in recklessly wouldn't help these poor creatures—it could very well make things worse.

'This; needs a surgeon not a butcher. Lets hope I still have steady hands.'

Scanning the makeshift table, Robert's eyes landed on a small sword, its blade dulled but still
looked serviceable. Next to it, a pitchfork rested, bizarrely arranged as if someone had prepared the area for some macabre feast. The surreal absurdity of it made his stomach churn, but he didn’t have time to dwell on it.

Grasping the sword, he turned his attention to the stallion bound before him. The pony's wide, frightened eyes met his, and Robert could feel the stallion trembling under his gaze.

If Robert was being honest? The stallion looked like he was about to crap himself, something Robert hoped wasn't the case.

'I'm not in the mood to clean shit off of myself that isn't mine, and you would probably never hear the end of that so- damn it pony, stay still.'

Robert bit his lip in concentration, focusing on the task at hand as the terrified stallion thrashed wildly, clearly convinced the giant intended to butcher him.

Yet instead of working the blade through flesh, Robert, instead worked it through the vines binding the pony. After a few tense moments, the vines fell away. Setting the sword aside briefly, he gently removed the apple gag from the stallion’s mouth, offering a faint, reassuring nod before moving on.

He approached the other ponies, each left in degrading and dehumanizing positions, bound and helpless. His movements were deliberate, each cut of the ropes releasing another soul from their embarrassing torment. But it didn’t end there—his gaze fell on the cages where more ponies huddled, their eyes wide with fear and despair.

Lastly, a soft whinny caught Robert’s attention from behind. He turned, his gaze settling on a figure he had only seen once before—a pony with both wings and a horn. Her dark coat shimmered faintly in the dim cavern light, and her mane, reminiscent of the night sky, swirled with a quiet, otherworldly energy.

She stood apart from the others, bound tightly in vines that coiled around her slender frame. Her wide, cautious eyes locked onto him, and her posture was tense, as though bracing for the worst.

'Weren't you a little bit bigger? Also since when did she have a thing for being tied up, I'm not judging here; or was she just in the wrong place at the wrong time?'

Robert paused, taking in the sight. There was a familiarity about her, something distant; his eyes flicked to the sword in his hand, realizing how it must appear to her—a weapon far too small, held in hands far too strong.

He slowly lowered the blade, softening his movements as he approached. The alicorn flinched slightly but made no effort to pull away. Picking up the bounded Princess; Robert reached out carefully, his large fingers brushing against the vines that bound her. He worked in silence, slicing through the thick tendrils with precision, his touch surprisingly gentle despite his size.

Each cut loosened her bonds, and with every freed limb, the tension in her frame lessened. As the last of the vines fell away, she remained still for a moment, her gaze never leaving him. Robert rose to his feet, and with great care placed the night themed horse back onto her hooves.

His expression unreadable, before turning his attention back to asist any others that still may need of his help.

Yet, as Robert turned away, the world behind him shifted, dissolving into a cosmic expanse of stars shimmering against a velvet sky, accompanied by the gentle hum of magic.

Moments after her release, the blue-furred alicorn took to the air, as she flew past him and quickly corrected the current flight path.

Her wings beating powerfully as she launched herself toward him. Before Robert could stop the equine she collided with his chest, a soft thud reverberating as her small frame pressed against his broad, sloped torso, barely covering half of it.

Robert stood frozen in surprise, his mind racing to process the unexpected display of gratitude—or whatever this was. He had grown accustomed to fear or hostility, but this reaction was entirely new.

Tentatively, he reached out, his massive hand brushing over her back. The alicorn flinched at first, but as his hand began to gently pet and rub along her coat, she relaxed, almost melting into the touch. Her wings quivered slightly, and an unmistakable sense of joy radiated from her.

Robert’s brow furrowed slightly, a faint smirk tugging at his lips as he continued to soothe her.

'I guess she wants to thank me? Is that why she's hugging me?' Robert thought, watching as the blue alicorn nuzzled deeply against his chest, her actions radiating a sense of trust and comfort he hadn’t expected. She seemed to revel in the gentle strokes along her back, her breathing steadying with each pass of his hand.

Curiosity piqued, Robert hesitated before shifting his hand upward, cautiously moving toward her head. 'What if I...?' His fingers found her ears, and he began to rub them softly, his touch careful and deliberate.

To his surprise, Nightmare Moon responded much like the other ponies he’d encountered. A satisfied coo escaped her lips, and her wings gave a tiny, involuntary flutter; followed by the very ears he had been petting began to flick.

She pressed into his touch, her delight evident in the way she relaxed further against him, as if the simple gesture melted away any lingering tension.

But just as Robert began to get comfortable in the surreal moment, the world around him abruptly began to ripple as if a water droplet fell into a pond; as it quickly shifted. The stars dissolved, and the comforting hum of magic ceased, leaving him in darkness as birds chirping and soft wind flowing through leaves; graced his ears.

Robert’s eyes fluttered open, disoriented for a moment as his hand remained suspended mid-motion on his chest where her ear had been. The warmth of the dream lingered faintly, but reality quickly set in as he noticed the sunlight streaming through the cracks in the ruined castle’s ceiling.

'It’s daytime already?'

He thought, sitting up slowly. A wry smile tugged at his lips as he muttered to himself, "Time flies when you’re saving ponies, even if they think you’re no smarter than a dog." The irony of the situation earned a quiet chuckle as he rose to his feet, brushing dust from his makeshift floor bed.

Stretching out the stiffness from his muscles, Robert rolled his shoulders and scanned the room briefly. 'No time to dwell on dreams. Got traps to check and another day to get through.'

With that, he strode out of the throne room, ready to face the challenges ahead.

The side project had worked better than Robert had anticipated. It turned out that Timberwolves shared a scavenger's instinct with their flesh-and-blood counterparts.

"Fresh Manticore did the trick," he muttered, glancing at the squirming wooden predators. They barked and snarled viciously, their glowing eyes glaring at him as they thrashed in the trap. Some even went so far as to bite or slash at him when he got too close, their sharp teeth and claws no match for his sturdier frame.

Satisfied with his haul, Robert hoisted the traps and started toward his last setup, placed a good distance away. However, he suddenly froze in place as a voice cut through the forest air, loud and brimming with irritation.

"Great! Just what I needed—Timberwolves! Come on, you overrated beak-picks! I'll show you what for!"

The unexpected outburst made Robert’s eyes widen. 'A Pony? No… they wouldn’t have triggered one of my traps… would they? Come on, please don't tell me there as dense and foolish enough to trigger it.' Concern and confusion mingled in his mind as he gently placed the cage of trapped Timberwolves aside and crept forward, moving silently through the thick underbrush.

As he approached the source of the commotion, he finally spotted the creature responsible for the shouting. It stood tall and proud, its head resembling an eagle’s, its sharp beak snapping in frustration. The body was that of a lion, with a white plumage of feathers on it's head and neck with a dull brown fur rippling with muscle beneath its feathers, and powerful wings spread wide in an aggressive display.

'A griffon.'

Robert crouched low, staying hidden behind the thick trees as his eyes locked on the griffon. She was pacing furiously within one of his larger traps, her talons scratching against the wooden cage with sharp, frustrated movements. Sunlight streamed through the canopy above, glinting off her feathers and fur as she barked insults at the trapped Timberwolves nearby.

"Overgrown piles of sticks! You think you're clever? Wait until I get out of here!" She snarled, slamming a talon against the cage's bars.

'This complicates things,' Robert thought as he crouched behind the tree, his eyes fixed on the trapped griffon. ' If I take her with me; and she escapes, I'm cooked. Better not let that happen. Sounds easier in my head than it’ll be in practice.'

Steeling himself, he began to move closer, carefully weaving between the trees to avoid startling her. But before he could get within range, the griffon's sharp hearing caught his approach. She whirled around with a startled squawk, her feathers puffing up in alarm.

When her golden eyes landed on him, her expression quickly shifted from shock to nervous disbelief. "By the Holy Seven! What in Tartarus have those lame ponies in Ponyville been feeding you? Hydras?!"

Ignoring her quip, Robert stepped forward and grasped the edge of the cage. His towering frame and calm demeanor seemed to sap the griffon’s bravado, and her talons scrabbled against the wooden floor as she tried to put more distance between herself and the giant.

"You’ve got another thing coming if you think I’ll let this oversized ape eat me!" She snapped, her voice shaky but still defiant. Then, taking a deep breath, she unleashed a powerful roar, her beak open wide as the sound echoed through the nearby trees.

Robert, unfazed, stared down at her with an unamused look. 'Honey I've been fighting Manticores for the past few days, if you think that's gonna scare me try again.' He wanted to state this; but again thought better of it.

The griffon’s roar faltered, her wings twitching awkwardly as her confidence wavered under his calm yet imposing gaze. "Oh, great," she muttered under her breath, "I’m dinner for a Giant monkey."

'First of all, I heard that; second of all, that's racist.' Robert decided, taking the more literal sense of her words as she did her best to keep her bravado up in this situation.

After finishing her attempt at intimidation, the griffon flared her wings dramatically and taunted, "Top that, you oversized cattle!"

Robert said nothing, his expression as unamused as ever. He calmly took a deep breath, his lungs expanding to their limit before he let loose a roar so powerful that it echoed through the entire forest.

The sheer force of the sound startled the griffon, her feathers fluffing up involuntarily as she instinctively crouched low in her cage. She blinked rapidly, clearly shaken, and muttered, "Alright... point made..."

Robert smirked internally. 'Challenge accepted. Victory is mine,' he thought, satisfied as he watched her cocky demeanor deflate.

The rest of the trip back to the caged Timberwolves was notably quieter. The once-vocal griffon remained silent, her earlier confidence replaced with a wary respect for her captor. Even as he began the journey back to the old castle with both the Timberwolves and the griffon in tow, she offered no more snarky remarks or resistance.

Now standing at the edge of the old castle’s grounds, Robert paused, his brow furrowing in thought as he looked at the two cages. 'Now, how am I going to get them across?'

Celestia's POV

The Princess of the Sun awoke earlier than she would have preferred, her internal clock insisting it was far too early for her duties. Glancing at the ornate clock on her bedside table, her suspicions were confirmed—it was just past midnight.

Letting out a soft sigh, Celestia rose from her plush bed, her movements slow and deliberate as she adjusted to the unexpected wakefulness. Deciding to prepare for the day ahead, she made her way toward her elegant dresser, intent on gathering what she needed for a soothing bath.

Before she could reach it, however, the heavy doors to her chambers flew open with such force that they nearly came off their hinges, the resounding bang echoing through the room.

Startled, Celestia whirled around, her horn igniting with a golden glow as she instinctively summoned a powerful spell, prepared to defend herself.

It was only when her eyes locked onto the familiar figure of her younger sister, Luna, that she allowed the magic to dissipate. The lethal energy faded from her horn, replaced by an expression of mild exasperation.

"Luna," she said, her voice calm but tinged with curiosity, "to what do I owe this rather dramatic entrance?"

"The last time you barged into my room like this, you had a nightmare many years ago, and you wanted me to protect you." Celestia remarked with a soft chuckle, her tone both teasing and fond.

Luna, without a word, immediately latched onto her elder sister, wrapping her forelegs around her in an embrace. A tired smile spread across Luna’s face, though her eyes still carried the weight of a sleepless night.

"The Giant is innocent of all charges of which he stands accused of!" Luna declared, her words booming in the Royal Canterlot voice. The volume was so powerful that Celestia flinched slightly, feeling the force of it from how close her sister was standing.

"Lulu, it's too early for the Royal voice." Celestia gently chided, rubbing her temples. Luna, realizing her mistake, let out an embarrassed huff.

"Apologies, Tia. Excitement overtook me," Luna said sheepishly, her wings fluttering slightly as she stepped back, her usual regal composure returning.

"So what evidence did you find? In one night, no less. I doubt my student, Twilight, could manage such efficiency." Celestia joked, her tone light as she looked at her sister. Luna’s horn began to glow, the soft azure light filling the space between them.

"I have mine proof in the dream realm, Sister. Allow me to show thee," Luna said with excitement, her voice rising as the magic swirled around them. With a flash of blue, both Alicorns were transported into the ethereal realm of dreams.

"Firstly, the Giant can dream! How wondrous is this, elder Sister?!" Luna exclaimed, her wings flaring in joy. Celestia blinked, stunned by the revelation. She had never heard their father mention that Giants could dream, nor had their mother spoken of it. It also hadn’t occurred to her to ask when she was younger.

"That certainly is most intriguing, Sister," Celestia replied, her eyes softening with a smile. She couldn't help but feel a bit of nostalgia at Luna’s enthusiasm. It reminded her of herself when she first encountered a Giant.

In a moment, a blue orb appeared before them, floating gently in the air. "This is all of mine proof that the Giant is innocent of all accused Crimes!" Luna said, her tone proud.

Celestia, still groggy from her early wake-up, rubbed her foreleg against her eye to clear the sleep from them, trying to focus on the glowing orb before her.

Once she had gathered herself, her eyes locked onto the orb, and she could see the dream Luna had saved. A gasp escaped her as she saw the part where Luna had tested the giant; personally.

"Luna!"

Celestia half-shouted, her voice tinged with concern. "Do you have any idea how dangerous that could have been?! If he wasn't peaceful?"

Her wings fluttered slightly in agitation, and she took a step closer, her gaze intense. "Testing him in such a way could have been disastrous. You should have been more cautious!"

"Nay! Sister, I tested with pony phantom's before hoof, to confirm if he was confrontational. He wouldn't hurt a newborn foal, he was even gentle with me." Luna hadn't realized, what she just said. It was time for the older sister to joke with her younger sibling.

Celestia, ever the master of playful teasing, couldn't resist a gentle smirk. "Oh? Gentle with you, you say?" She raised an eyebrow, her tone teasing. "And I suppose you weren't the least bit nervous when he... 'Tested' the patience of you're coat, were you?"

Luna’s cheeks flushed a deep red as the weight of her own words hit her, her eyes widening in shock. She stammered, “T-Tia! That’s not what I meant!”

Celestia, a sly grin curling her lips, leaned in with an air of teasing mischief. “Oh? But, sister, you speak of him so fondly, so passionately. It sounds like you’ve grown quite close to this giant. Perhaps even 'too' close." She said with a wink, her voice full of playful mockery.

Luna’s wings stiffened, her heart racing with both embarrassment and frustration. “Tia! I-I did not mean it that way! He is nothing like... what you think!” She sputtered, trying in vain to regain control of the conversation.

Celestia, clearly enjoying her younger sister’s flustered state, laughed softly. “Oh, I’m sure he’s nothing like what I think. But honestly, Luna, with his size and strength, who wouldn’t be curious? You have to admit, it’s a little surprising that you, of all ponies, would find such a bond with a creature so... 'unlike' anything the world has seen in many years."

Luna’s face only deepened in color as she struggled to find the words to deflect her sister’s teasing. Finally, she sighed in exasperation. “Tia, please! I beg of thee, cease with these absurd suggestions. There is nothing between us!”

Celestia’s grin softened at the sight of her sister’s genuine embarrassment. “Oh, Luna, I’m only jesting,” she said, her voice now filled with warmth. “It’s just so unlike you to be so shy. I only want to see you happy, no matter the size of the one who makes you so.”

Luna let out a frustrated huff, her hooves crossed tightly in front of her. “I know not why I share anything with thee, Sister. Thou art far too cruel.”

Celestia’s laughter rang through the air, her teasing tone light and full of affection. “Ah, but I am your older sister, Luna. It’s my duty to keep you on your hooves, even if it means a little harmless teasing. Who else will ask the important questions?”

“T-Tia! That was not the purpose for me entering the Giant's dream!” Luna stammered, her blue fur turning a deeper shade of red, her wings fluttering nervously as she tried to regain her composure.

Celestia, clearly pleased with the effect her teasing had, let out a soft chuckle, a sly grin tugging at her lips. She nudged her younger sister gently, leaning in as if to whisper a secret. “I see you still haven’t changed, even after... Well, you know,” she said with a playful glint in her eyes.

The lightheartedness of the moment quickly shifted as Luna’s expression darkened. The mention of the past stirred old memories, and her ears flattened in a moment of quiet discomfort. Her gaze dropped to the ground as the weight of those long-buried feelings settled in.

Celestia, sensing the shift in mood, immediately regretted her words. She sighed softly and placed a reassuring hoof on Luna’s shoulder. “I’m sorry, Luna. I didn’t mean to bring up old wounds. It’s just... you’ve come so far since then, and it makes me proud to see you growing stronger each day.”

Thankfully, the orb displayed the very forest that Celestia remembered all too well. Her eyes widened in disbelief as she exclaimed, "That's impossible! This very forest was burned to ash and cinders at the start of the Second Age!"

For a moment, the wise and regal Sun Princess seemed to vanish, replaced by the eager, vibrant young mare of her youth. Her tail swished with excitement, and she pranced about, her enthusiasm bubbling over like it had when she had first encountered this ancient forest all those years ago. The sight of it, so untouched and alive, ignited a spark of nostalgia and wonder in her heart.

"Luna, do you see this?" Celestia's voice softened as she gazed at the dream unfolding before her. "This forest... I thought it was lost forever."

"I have so many fond memories in the Green Titan forest! One Time, me and some newly made friends decided to explore the woodlands, but one area was forbidden to enter. Even though I, the only Princess at the time, couldn't enter without my father or mother present."

"Why did you need our parents to enter?" Luna asked, her interest growing as she heard this unfamiliar story.

"Because that area was located in the thickest part of the forest, which sheltered a large clan of Giants, who knew Mother and Father very well. I think even Mother had a friendship with a young Giant. What name did she give him?"

Celestia asked herself gently, rubbing her brow in thought, trying to remember. "It was Snowy Midnight."

Luna found the answer satisfactory, but one question remained. "Sister, what about this tree here?" she asked, pointing to the snow-white bark with the red leaves.

Upon seeing the old tree, Celestia grew cautious at once. "Is that what I think it is? No, it can't be." A wave of unease washed over her as she took a closer look.

Sensing her sister's distress, Luna moved closer. "Tia, what is it?"

Snapping out of it, Celestia responded, "I assume you remember your studies from long ago? About the Giants?" Luna nodded in confirmation.

"Yes, dear sister, the old tales doth speak of how stubborn they are, and their great resistance to following the rulings of any other creature," Princess Luna answered.

Nodding, Celestia continued, "You're right, Luna. Giants follow no will but their own, and any attempt to command them would fail. However, the only thing that hath ever succeeded in recruiting a Giant into service is a Weirwood tree. They’ve existed for a long time, even before our mother and father, I believe. They only went extinct recently, around the end of the Fourth Age. Tell me, did he have a Giant timberwolf, or as they are more commonly known, 'Great Wolves,' with him? If I recall correctly, that was seen as a sacred symbol, sent by the gods of the forests, to them."

Seeing that this was a conversation for another time, Luna changed the subject. "Sister, doth this suffice to stay thy command o'er the Royal Guards, and cease their march upon the Last Giant?" Luna asked pleadingly, even giving her elder sister a puppy-eye stare in hopes of winning her over.

Shaking off the uneasiness, Celestia studied the last of the saved dream memories. "Maybe I acted too hastily. I'll even lift the restrictions on all surrounding forests. But, in the end, I have found the Giant innocent of what he stands accused of."

Before Celestia knew what was happening, she found herself back in her bedchamber, suddenly tackled by her younger sister. "Oh, thank thee, thank thee, Tia!" Luna exclaimed, embracing her older sister tightly.

Celestia ignited her horn, levitating some papers and a quill, gently laying her head against Luna's in a moment of sisterly affection as she began writing to Twilight.

Just as Celestia was about to send the letter, she received one from her student. 'How odd,' she thought. Twilight usually didn’t send letters this early unless they were urgent.

Gently pulling Luna off with her golden magic, Celestia opened the newly received letter.

"Dear Princess Celestia,

With a heavy heart, I must inform you that I have lost the book you entrusted to me. I stayed up all night searching for it, but to no avail. My efforts have yielded nothing but wasted time. If I must return to Canterlot to face the consequences for losing such priceless records and stories, I ask for just one day to prepare. Your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle."

At the bottom of the letter, Celestia noticed wet spots on the scroll, evidence that Twilight had begun to cry as she wrote. Celestia decided it would be best not to respond just yet; Twilight likely needed time to calm herself.

Twilight, as Celestia well knew, was prone to overreacting. The day ruler was so caught up in her student's distress that she forgot about her younger sister. Turning her head, she saw Luna had fallen asleep on Celestia's plump and fuzzy carpet.

"Goodness, what time is it?" Celestia murmured, glancing outside. The moon was still high in the sky.

Putting the quill and scroll down, Celestia closed her eyes, using her magic to lower the moon and raise the sun. I’m sure Luna wouldn’t mind me taking over for her this time.

Author's Note

Another chapter has been drafted let's see where chapter five takes us! Sorry for the long wait time I need to write these 8k behemoths but please enjoy my work!

Don't forget if you find any errors don't be scared to comment about it I'll fix it!