The war hero's shadow

Spring break came rolling in seemingly from nowhere and instead of going to Ponyville to visit his father Cecil promised he would spend the summer with Alex. For their spring break, Cecil had worked hard to plan a trip to the Ruby Falls Resort. Lush green forests and misty waterfalls as far as the eye could see with its crowing jewel being the massive 200 foot waterfall that turned red from the setting sun's rays creating some of the most romantic photos a couple could dream of. The time for the trip came and like normal Shining was a crying mess as he had to watch his daughter leave. The transformation had taken them time to adjust and for a while it was rocky for the Crystal family but as they promised they tried to accept it and the longer she was around her parents the more Flurry’s parents accepted her.

By the end of the second semester, they had bought her a custom bed, clothes for nearly every occasion, shoes, hats, gloves, purses, and jewelry. Living in a human body was difficult at first but it was mostly learning how to control her motor skills which Cecil was more then happy to teach her. Before she knew it they were playing sports together walking down the park path holding hands, and doing everything she ever dreamed of even in the late night hours but they still held back in that regard. Marriage still came before that. Cecil like her parents had a little difficulty accepting the new Flurry and more then once nearly told her to change back but any doubt he had was quickly washed away with a simple kiss or her fingers interlocking with his own.

The train ride to the Falls was like any other they had taken. Flurry had her hair straightened and tied back in a ponytail. She had a little makeup on but nothing to brag about. She wore a yellow sun dress with pink flowers embroidered on the bottom and white flats. She had a white clutch purse over her shoulder and a white derby hat with her aviators in her lap. Her head was resting easy on Cecil's shoulder while his arm went around her shoulders keeping her close and safe in his arms. Cecil like normal had his cowboy hat and leather duster. A design Flurry slightly detested but she understood it was a badge of honor more then a fashion statement. The duster was unbuttoned and underneath Cecil wore a navy blue polo shirt tucked into tan slacks. He traded out his boots for black shiny dress shoes. She had managed to convince him to try and wear more stylish clothing with the aid of Alex and turns out Cecil liked it.

Cecil looked down at his sleeping princess who wore a small smile as she slowly breathed in and out. Her face was at pure peace in the moment and all Cecil could think about was how happy he was to have met her again. He didn't know what he would or where he would have been without her. She in a sense saved him from the very first day they met and started hanging out and he was eternally grateful for it. They were coming up to their nine month mark and ever since they started living together he knew she was wanting the question to be popped on her. In Flurry's typical way she left hints like reading magazines about famous couples getting married or in her very little spare time read love stories. It wasn't right in his face and from the outside it would look as though she was just reading for pleasure and not dropping hints and maybe Cecil was overthinking it.

The train was coming to the station soon and it was time for Flurry to wake from her nap. Cecil gently nudged her before lifting her chin and pulling her into a kiss. At first she did nothing but suddenly her lips came to life and kissed him back as her arms reached around his neck to gently pull him in for a deeper one. She pulled away with her eyes still closed and a warm smile on her face. Fluttering her eyes open and looking right into his own she softly said.

“What a wonderful way to wake up.”

Cecil smiled down at her letting his forehead nudge against her own as he stared deeply into her own eyes.

“I couldn't ask for a better way baby.”

She giggled as her teeth shined brightly with a big toothy smile. The love she had for him always made butterflies attack her stomach especially when he was being extra loving to her. Her sweet smile turned into a sly one as her eyes lidded a little. She put a finger to his chest slowly dragging the fringer down a little bit.

“I can think of one. Like on hearts and hooves day when I woke you up.”

Cecil chuckled as the memory came flooding back. She had snuck into his room naked and blew him up like a pool float.

“That was a special occasion and one im not sure to forget.”

Flurry snuggled closer to him smiling proudly. Ever since she turned human the little acts of kindness she always wanted to do for him were a lot easier and came with more options. One of her favorites was letting Cecil lay on her lap as she ran her nails through his hair while she read him a book until he fell asleep after a long hard day. She loved seeing him fall asleep with a smile on his face, knowing she caused that smile. Breaking away from her love she looked out the window and her eyes grew wide with excitement.

The train was crossing a bridge and below was the entire valley view of the Falls. Tall tropical trees lined the floor while evergreens hugged the steep, rocky, mountainous walls. Mist flooded the area all around as seemingly endless waterfalls poured out of the cliffs filling rivers that all traveled to a massive clear water lake. On the other side of the lake was a small outline of the theme park and resort. Flurry had her face practically glued to the window trying to memorize every detail when suddenly darkness as they entered the tunnel and she groaned.

“I wanted to see more of the pretty view.”

She stuck her lower lip out in a pout but Cecil quickly poked her ribs getting a giggle out of her and a small playful slap to his hand.

“We will have plenty of time to see all the wonderful views Flurry as long as your willing to walk for it that is.”

Flurry crossed her arms giving him a smug look as the train lights flickered on.

“I will be daring doo the second if it means I get to take in my views.”

Cecil couldn't hold back a laugh which only caused Flurry to laugh with him. Cecil pulled out the pamphlet and started going over their plan when they arrived. First was the hotel and then a little down time to destress from the train finally they did whatever they wanted whether it be hit the pool, amusement park, or go hiking. Cecil did want to try the casino just once more or less just to say he did it. Flurry wanted to visit the botanical gardens and see all the different artwork made from the plants or colorful pictures made with different flowers. She also had her eyes on some of the water activities.

The train was in the tunnel for a while with small moments where the cave walls had been broken out for a viewing window as the train passed by them on its descent down the mountain. The cave windows got closer and closer to the ground filling the passengers with excitement that they were finally about to be below the tree line and onto the station. Finally, the train exited the cave and it was magnificent. Flowers and tropical trees were everywhere making an ecosystem seem like a wonderland of colors all while a soft mist floated in the air. The train passed over rolling brooks, beautiful rock formations, and a few rivers before finally pulling into the station where Cecil grabbed his old sage green duffle bag and Flurrys pink hardshell rolling suitcase, her matching duffle bag, her second duffle bag, and finally her make up bag. These were the moments he missed when she was a pony simply because she never wore clothes or cared about makeup.

Flurry carried her purse walking next to Cecil with a amused look as he did a balancing act to hold all the bags. She offered to help but he smiled and told her he had it. Rolling her eyes she put her hat and sunglasses on as they walked to the hotel entrance. The bellhop took one look at Cecil and quickly shot him a look of sympathy. Cecil returned it with a nod all while Flurry rolled her eyes again at his stubborn pride. She had magic that could have just floated all the luggage but he wanted to be a gentlecolt. Sweet but redundant if he was going to struggle this much. Flurry did all the talking and being even more famous the staff was quick to take the bags off Cecil and carry them to their rooms while the hotel manager greeted them personally. He was sharply dressed. Combed main, a tie and collar, polished hooves. The stallion reminded Cecil of a lawyer but his sweet smile and relaxed tone said otherwise.

He lead them to the penthouse, a room that unfortunately Cecil had to ask Shining for help pay for but the sly stallion ended up paying for the entire room himself telling Cecil to use the bits he saved on Flurry and himself. The room was a open concept. The only walls up were for the bathroom. The floor was made of hardwood oak, there was a king bed to the left with a viewing window for the two to star gaze. The kitchen had black granite tops and stainless steel appliances, A hot tub was at the far end with a dining table in the middle. The crown jewel of the room had to be the far wall made entirely of glass giving them both a fantastic view of the valley and the waterfalls.

Flurry ran ahead jumping and spinning around in the room like she was on a dance floor. Her eyes were sparkling as she soaked everything in and a relived sign Cecil had done good on this.

“Cecil its perfect!” She called out with excitement.

Running back she wrapped him up in a tight hug kissing him several times before snuggling her head against his chest. The high she was riding was one of the best but it wasn't because of the room just the fact that they were going to be sharing a room on their very first vacation.

“It's good to see the lady happy. If everything is A okay I will leave. Still have a job and all that.”

The manager chuckled causing Cecil to nod and share in the laughter.

“I know all about that.”

Once he left and the door shut Flurry grabbed Cecil's hand and pulled him to the bed where she pushed him down and got on top. Her bright shining eyes and beautiful smile were like seeing a child get the one present they wanted on hearts warming eve. Flurry was riding the best high of her life right now and it was all because of Cecil.

“I love you so much Cecil. I can't believe you would do all this for us. I’ll be honest, when you first told me that all the expenses were paid for I was worried that you had worked yourself to the bone and would be spending all that hard earned money at one time but now that we are here and together.”

The smile on her face kept getting bigger as small tears started to rim her eyes.

“I can not thank you enough baby. You have been the best and my whole world over these past nine months. I love you with everything I have and no matter how much I think I know you, you always seem to pull out a surprise that catches me off guard. Everything you do is simply the best. You are the coltfriend every girl dreams of having and for that, I am eternally grateful. I just hope that at the end of the day, I make you feel the same for me.”

Cecil smiled up at her wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close. Her warm body against his own felt amazing while the sweet cherry scent of her shampoo filled his nose.

“Flurry you are the girl of my dreams. You are always ready to put me ahead of yourself and no matter how bad of a day I've had you are standing there with a warm smile and something to eat with an ear ready to listen. I can't tell you how many times I've come home and just being around you made my day brighten. You are the one I love with everything I have.”

Flurry sniffled a little as his words made her feel emotional and her stomach fill with butterflies. She loved it all. She loved him, his words, his acts of kindness. She loved every minute she could spend with this man. Flurry rolled off him so she was on her side as the two just stared at each other. Not a word had to be said between them. Slowly Cecil leaned in giving a quick peck on the lips then diving deeper. Before either knew what happened Clothes were laying on the floor.

After their

fun

, they got dressed in their swimsuits. Cecil didn't like how swim trunks felt so he always opted for shorts and a shirt while Flurry wore a two piece bikini. The color scheme was a white base and the pattern was red roses that still had thorns on the stems. The top didn't leave much to the imagination, while the bottoms barely covered her backside. The straps rode on top of her hips making an almost perfect V. When she wore stuff like this Cecil was glad his shorts were denim to help hide a certain part. Flurry knew how she looked and what it did to Cecil, It's partially why she asked Rarity to design it this way. She wanted to look sexy for him and since most ponies didn't see her the way he did, considering the entire population didn't wear clothes, she felt confident to wear things like this. When they were ready Flurry walked up behind Cecil slapping his butt with a wink.

“Come on let's have some fun and relax. It's our vacation, time to enjoy it!”

Cecil pulled her in for a kiss by her waist.

“Don't you worry about that. Im going to have all the fun in the world that I can while I'm here. If you can't keep up ill tell you all about it later.”

She giggled poking his chest with arched eyebrows.

“Are you sure you can keep up with a princess? We naturally have more stamina. What makes you so sure I haven't been going easy on you this entire time?”

Cecil laughed as he walked to the door and held it open as Flurry walked by he returned the butt slap with vigor. His made a echo down the hall making her straighten up and look at him with bedroom eyes and new excitement, like they were about to turn around and head back into the room for round two.

“You forget babe. Im a Steel hard work and high stamina comes with the name.”

“We will see on this trip won't we then?” She giggled and took his hand leading him down the hall.

Already the start of their trip was going to be one they remembered for years to come. The two had their couple of hours by the pool drinking local beverages and sampling the alcohol something Flurry found herself dabbling in more and more on trips like these. Her home life restricted her from drinking but in a place like this or at Alex’s it felt wrong not to.

After spending hours in the water and sunbathing the two went back inside for another change of clothes and headed out to the botanical gardens that Flurry wanted to see so badly. It was magical though Cecil was about to die of boredom since Flurry wanted to spend seemingly hours at each display while Cecil was more content to just look at one and move on. They spent the rest of the day there and finally sat down to have dinner chatting while they ate. After dinner, they had some more fun and in the morning Flurry woke up to tease Cecil wearing just a apron as she cooked breakfast.

She loved to tease him like this because she knew she was poking a bear and sometimes that bear came out to tease her back. That morning was one of them as she had to restart breakfast. After that, they headed out on the trails something Cecil particularly was excited for. All day they walked up mountain passes taking in gorgeous views though they did accidentally walk in on a couple doing the deed off the beaten path. That quickly turned into laughs and jokes once they were out of earshot. They walked further then they thought and when they finally got back it was nearly ten at night. To rest their sore bodies they cracked open a complimentary bottle of wine, stripped down for a shower, and soaked in the hot tub cuddled in each other's arms as they gazed at the stars.

The hot tub soak really refreshed them and then it was time to hit the amusement park. High speed fun and long line waiting with overpriced food and drink. The perfect place for young couples. The park was incredible and once again the taller rides were put in places that captured the peak beauty of the resort at their tallest points or integrated the rides into the natural stone walls like passing under waterfalls. The park was fun and definitely left them wanting more since they wanted to ride all the rides but alas the workers had to go home at some point.

The fourth day was spent on the lake in a row boat. Cecil rented fishing poles and that was a hilarious part of the trip since Flurry had never been fishing in her life. Cecil showed her the basics but he had to bait the hooks with the worms. Flurry managed to catch a single fish to Cecils ten and that one fish had her so excited until she pulled it out of the water and it smacked her in the face with a tail. That was when fishing time was over because after it smacked her in the face it broke the line and jumped back in the water leaving Cecil to laugh his heart out. They used the boat to explore the lake some more keeping the silhouette of the hotel resort in sight as a reference. The middle of the lake was boring but getting to see the different waterfalls up close was fun as well as all the wild plant life growing on the edge.

That trip ended and with a little time left they explored the small village finding a nice restaurant to eat at. After food it was back home and in bed for cuddles and a little letter writing to Flurry's parents.

The last day they headed to the amusement park to finish up some of the rides they didn't get to go on and were grateful they did. Some of them had spectacular views like one passing through an underground lake and mine shaft. They left the park a little after lunch deciding they didn't want to spend bits on outrageous food prices. Going back to the village they spent their bits on finer foods before making their way to the crown jewel of the whole resort. Ruby Falls.

Flurry was leaning on the rail watching the waterfall slowly change colors as the sun began its descent while Cecil kept fiddling with the small box in his duster pocket scared to death it might fall out. His nerves were dwindling as he tried to hype himself up but every time he saw her face mesmerized by the falls he looked back down at the floor trying to build up the courage. He knew she would say yes why wouldn't she its one of the things shes openly talked about. This was his committed moment the second most important commitment in his life a moment that when he asked he knew there was no turning back. Would things change between them or would she still be the fun caring Flurry he fell in love with. Would he be the same or would he change? Finally, he heard his father's voice in the back of his head say.

“Time to man the fuck up boy.”

That cold tone his father carried when he was aggravated was enough to push all the fear Cecil had to the side like a butterfly crawling out of its cocoon he was confident with nerves of steel. Cecil walked up to Flurry like a cat on the hunt and took a knee behind her.

“Hey Flurry I got you something.”

Flurry was a little startled being brought out of her sightseeing and the fact she thought Cecil was away instead of right next to her. She turned around with a warm smile and then her eyes immediately went down and straight to the ring. Her hands covered her mouth as she gasped loudly and felt her knees get weak as her heart raced. All of a sudden she was enveloped in happiness and tears of joy practically bouncing up and down on her tiptoes.

“Would you be my wife?”

Flurry squealed as all the excitement explode out of her body jumping up and down as her wings stretched out.

“Yes! Yesyesyesyesyesyes! It's been my dream to be your wife!”

She held out her hand and Cecil carefully put the ring on. Flurry had to use all her willpower to stay still long enough for him to put it on but the second his fingers left the ring she tackled him to the ground smothering him with kisses and tight hugs practically shouting with joy about how much she has dreamed of this day. They kissed, hugged, and she cried for a while before they were calmed down enough to stand and enjoy the peak moment of the waterfall changing colors. Flurry held his hand with her own as tears still rolled down her cheeks. The smile on her face was like nothing he had ever seen before. She wore that smile like someone who hit the lottery and found someone she was madly in love with. It warmed Cecil to know he made her this happy. For the rest of the day, she was gushing at the ring praising him and loving on him even into the night.

The events from the trip were some of the best memories they had but as fast as it seemed they were over and back in the crystal empire. Flurry’s parents had known about the proposal and Cadence and Flurry practically had a waterworks party when she arrived while Shining patted Cecil on the back. Surprisingly enough even Alex was there with a small smile and proud fatherly eyes.

“Congratulations son. I'm proud.”

Cecil smiled brightly as Shinning stepped in feeling the few words could have been expanded on.

“You've done great this year Cecil. So many of us are proud of you and all your accomplishments. When you first arrived I thought I was going to be dealing with a second Alex but you proved us all wrong with your kindness and heart. You stepped up when you had to and gave it your all. I know it's been rough but seeing Flurry squeal with happy tears i know no matter what happens you and her are going to be just fine.”

Alex looked to Cecil letting his frown come back.

“That still doesn't mean knock her up.”

Cecil locked up as his eyes immediately jumped to Shining Armor but the King rolled his eyes with a smile.

“Way to kill the mood, Alex.”

“You were thinking the same.”

“Yes but come on. They just got back from a trip and besides that's something I would rather not know about.”

“ I would have cut his dick off before he ever got near her with a ring.”

“And that's why no one likes you.”

Cecil couldn't help but laugh at the two arguing. It was refreshing to see the two old war vets bicker like a married couple. It gave a new light on how they were as friends and now future in-laws. The reunion was pleasant but now with the announcement that Flurry was getting married to Cecil once again, the school was on edge as the news reporters came rolling in. For weeks they had to go to school by carriage simply because every day a new magazine company wanted the scoop. It was so irritating that in one press report, he announced if his daughter and future son-in-law were harassed anymore then he was going to not only surround them with guards but call upon Alex to handle the situation. That alone made the wanna be reporters vanish like mice seeing a cat.

The wedding was unlike any Cecil had ever seen. Grand couldn't even begin to describe this. Flowing white lace banners across towering crystal pillars with white flags holding the crystal empire seal. Seating for hundreds and a red carpet for the aisle. Flower peddles had been falling from the open ceiling since the start with even more flowers and decoration lining the border. It was as if Cadance and Flurry found the best pictures from weddings they could and stole every idea they liked. The sight alone was mesmerizing but there stood Cecil at the altar with Baron at his side as best stallion. All the princesses, Discord, and all the previous Elements of Harmony barrers were there in the front row with half the guests being reporters who wanted the first pictures. Alex stood in the back being his normal overprotective self with several top ranking Sky Raiders including the current leader, Iron Will. All the mercenaries present had a deep history with Alex and every single one showed up wearing their dusters, working with the guards as another layer of security. Anyone dumb enough to attack this wedding had four princesses, the prior Elements of Harmony, The one and only Chaos user, one retired guard captain, Alex Steel, twelve of the best Sky Raiders, and the entire Crystal Empire officers core there all dressed in their military dress blues. The phrase, open a can of whop ass, finally made more sense to Cecil as he gazed at the crowd.

Finally, the organ started playing and all eyes went to the back of the room. Shining walked out in his dress blues decorated with medals followed closely with Flurry dressed in her wedding gown. The gown flowed like the wind or river around rocks as hugging all her curves and showing plenty of cleavage. The dress was sewn with brilliant patterns on the corset and gold thread while the dress dragging the ground was decorated in blue heart gems many Rarity herself cut into the shapes all wrapped in golden ribbons. The best part was Flurry's face which glowed brighter than the sun itself and the beauty made Cecil feel weak in his knees. Somepony must have seen his nerves getting a little weak because he felt a pinch on his hand. He immediately looked to the row of alicorns and Celestia was wearing a sly smile winking at him. He gave a quick smile back thanking her for the distraction before looking at his blushing beautiful bride.

When Flurry arrived to the altar the ceremony began as all eyes intensely watched this unique coming together of two very different hearts and cultures. A pair that should have no reason to be together saw past their differences and over time bonded and loved against all odds. It was a tear jerking experience and wholeheartedly the most wholesome moment of the entire year as they said their vows and placed the rings on each other's hands sharing the kiss that would always unite them as one in body and soul. Cheers erupted as cameras went wild with flashes.

The cake cutting was especially special since Alex and Shinning fought over what sword they were going to use until Cadence pulled a battle ax from the wall with her magic and handed it over to Cecil and Flurry. Not the most conventional thing to cut cake with but it worked. They had their magical dance and after all the fun then the rowdy side of Cecil's culture reared its head. Booze was flowing like the Red Ruby Rivers, songs were being sung in honor of Cecil and Flurry, music had shifted to a more upbeat party, and even Twilight got Alex out on the dance floor for one dance. The night was magical to Flurry and one more brilliant memory she would never forget. That night after the wedding Cecil and her self wasted no time heading to their room. Soundproofing the walls she and Cecil were finally able to in clear conscious have sex.

He never stopped until morning when the exhaustion finally caught up to him. Flurry's whole body was numb and her legs couldn't stop shaking. She barely had the concentration to pick up a glass of water and ease her sour throat from all her screams. That man knows exactly what he's doing and the best part is not once did he leave her flower a white sticky mess, but the same couldn't be said for the rest of her body, something she didn't mind compared to the alternative.

Time went on as the happily married couple continued school. Throughout the semester the disappearance of everfree animals was growing at an alarming rate and seemed to have to distinct paths. One leading to the crystal empire and the other to Canterlot. Princess Twilight ordered her scouts to investigate the matter and they went missing. She ordered teams of soldiers as a search party to find and rescue the missing scouts but they two went missing. Alex had written to Cecil about the disappearances describing it had the same feeling to it when his wife and Sweetie Bell went missing. This caused for Cecil to start carrying his revolver into class tucked safely away in his duster.

Summer break was nearing and during that time things calmed down with drama. The last few weeks before the big break it felt like Cecil and Flurry were back when they first arrived. They could walk around the halls and not a pony would give them more then a simple smile or wave before moving on. It felt like they could breathe again but the unsettling news coming from the everfree forest had put everyone on edge. Still the school did its best to keep all the students focused.

Cecil and Flurry were getting settled into their last class they had together a promise they made each other when they signed up for classes so at least they could have one together. Just like all the other times, Cecil leaned back in his chair getting ready to let his weary eyes rest knowing he had this class in the bag and of course for his beloved wife to smack him awake because apparently, it was wrong and unfair that she had to be awake. Instead of a smack, there was a scream followed by several more screams and fearful yells. Cecil’s eyes flung open as he saw what could only be described as a half snake half pony creature with a cobra hood. The creature was tall standing on its tail nearly eight feet in height with garden green scales, yellow snake eyes, and a forked tongue periodically slipping out to taste the air. In its hooves was a crossbow that it aimed right at the students before sweeping to the teacher and back to the students trying to keep them all in place.

Flurry was holding onto Cecil with a death grip as she sat fearfully in her chair with bated breath. When had this happened and how did this happen? There was no record of creatures like this mentioned in any book or scroll. The more important question was still why was this happening. When the serpent pony pointed the crossbow at the teacher again the teacher stepped forward letting his horn glow but the serpent was quick to aim and fire sending the bolt into the teacher's heart. The old stallion didn't even have a chance to gasp as he collapsed to the floor blood pouring out of his chest and staining the floor with a dark crimson. The serpent went to reload and Cecil rushed holding his duster up like a shield as the Serpent drew a short sword. Cecil was in his element as the serpent hissed loudly and rushed to attack but Cecil tackled it in the midsection sending them both tumbling to the ground.

The Serpent pony was quicker to recover and nearly managed to snap its fangs down on Cecil but the human managed to roll away just in time. Unfortunately, he wasn't in a schoolyard fight where two stallions let the other get up. This Serpent was out for blood and right now it had Cecil on the ropes as he dodged each strike until Flurry finally found her nerves again and used her magic to grab the serpent in a pink magical bubble and throw it with ease out the window. Cecil was on his butt looking at her with a surprised look that she had done something like that while Flurry reeled back in shock thinking about the damage she had just caused. Cecil managed to look out the window and what he got in response was a sword thrown at his head.

He managed to doge but this fight wasn't over just yet as he quickly got to his feet running to Flurry and wrapping her in a tight hug. She was shaking like a leaf in a windstorm as tears trailed down her eyes. Personally, she had never been in a fight let alone used her magic like that so the fear gripping moment when she realized her love was in trouble made her mind go blank and she acted on instinct alone. When she felt Cecil's arms wrap her up in a tight hug all she could do was sob into his chest and grip his shirt tightly.

“I-is he okay?” She asked in a shaky voice clearly stressed and upset about the situation.

“Yeah, he's fine, in fact he's coming back.”

That was enough for Flurry to pull back with wide eyes full of fear but Cecil leaned in bringing her into a deep kiss. That seemed to settle her down enough to think rationally again but the fear of being attacked or harmed was just there and until this was over she it would always be there ready to rear its ugly head. The whole class was in shock at what happened and many still didn't register what really transpired. It all happened so quickly that their minds couldn't handle the sudden shock of the violent acts before them.

Cecil walked to the chalkboard erasing the lesson and drawing the floor plan for their level and then one of the garden that the window overlooked. The level of detail was almost creepy but he drew a line from their classroom to a window that rested at a staircase.

“Alright time for a lesson from my old man's book. Rule one memorize all exit points even the unconventional ones. Rule two know where your cover is. Unarmed situations means cover is your best friend. I'm sure most of you are thinking about the fire escapes or jumping from the windows but that's a bad idea. They have crossbows and regular longbows. Those will be deadly on any open field of view. This window leads to the gardens where a mix of tall bushes and stone walls are.”

He tapped his finger on the classroom before drawing it down to the window and then he picked the chalk up again and started making lines to the stone walls in the garden.

“This will lead you out to the street your just going to have to grit your teeth a little and push through the sharp leaves but once you make it through you’ll be on the street and from there run. Run like hell to the nearest building and get word out to whoever will listen.”

There was immediate murmuring as the ponies all looked to each other in fear. He was suggesting that they jump out a window and play dodgeball with arrows and just hope they make it. Flurry narrowed her eyes seeing the students were scared.

“Do not be afraid! We are scholars but we are not weak. Think back to when you were fillies and colts surviving the curse of King Sombra or think about how strong my mother, our princess was to accept a changeling! We are not the weak little ponies these fiends think we are.”

The small speech started turning heads mostly in the stallions who felt their own pride swelling and slowly the mares started to look at her with determination. When the class was set she turned to Cecil with her own determined look.

“Awaiting your orders…baby.” She had to smile a little at that and it helped to break some of the tension with some giggles from the class.

Cecil shook his head with a small smile before he turned to the window catching a glint of something shiny. Flurry walked next to him and had to cover her mouth with a gasp. Laying outside in the open grass were dead students. Their backs were filled with arrows and some with spears running through them while others had marks from a sword or other bladed weapon. Her knees got weak but Cecil quickly pulled her close trying to give her the strength she needed to survive this. He let her take the teacher's seat and took the front of the classroom once more. Explaining simple hand movements.

“We move slow and cautiously. Keep your heads constantly on the lookout.”

Cecil dawned his duster making sure the familiar weight rested on his shoulders comfortably before he reached inside and pulled out the revolver his father had given him when he left for this university. The gun was still in pristine condition with nary a blemish on it. The gold pin stripping with the Savage Knights symbol and the engraved words shimmered in the light pouring in from the broken window.

Flurry saw the revolver and her heart sank. She couldn't believe he was carrying that into a school but more importantly that he was actually going to use it. The situation was dire but in her mind she didn't think it was that dire nor did she want him to go down that road. Carefully she walked next to him placing a hand over the revolver and looking into his eyes with her own deeply concerned eyes. It wasn't his place to fight right now.

“Cecil we have a plan a good one at that thanks to you. Please I beg you dear don't go down this road. If you do there will be nothing my family can do to save you and I can't lose you. You and I are one now think about us.”

Cecil’s jaw set in place as his mind conflicted with what he knew had to be done. The revolver would be a huge advantage but she was right. Not only would powerful ponies demand he be exiled but the fallout would tarnish his name, Flurry’s name and make him just as dangerous as his father. The big question was could he actually kill. Could he take a life and live with himself afterwords. He closed his eyes letting out a breath he didn't know he was holding and put the revolver away in his coat. As normal Flurry was right.

“I will promise you i will only use it as a last resort but if it comes down to you or them. You are going to make it out of this.”

His words were cold with an air of seriousness that sent a shiver up her spine. Her beloved husband the man whose kindness showed no bounds and forgiveness that reached out to even the most disgusting and wretched had been replaced with a cold mentality that promised the job was going to be done at any cost. Fighting back tears she nodded and pulled him in for a kiss.

“Then please let us leave before we have to cross that bridge.”

Cecil nodded and walked to his backpack pulling out his hat. After placing it on his head he cautiously opened the door just enough to see down the hallways. Their classroom was on a corner section which was good and bad. It allowed him to see down both ways but once they left the room they would have to constantly watch their flank. He leaned back into the classroom taking in one lungful of confidence and stepped out. The vibe changed drastically. He felt like he was in danger and at any second one of those creatures was going to pop out of the shadows. His mind was going out of control while his eyes darted across the hallways.

Thanks to his father's training though after a second of riding the adrenalin, his mind began to slow down allowing his muscle memory to take over. The feeling that he was in danger was calming pushing it to the back of his mind but always making sure it was there. Fear was a tool to keep oneself alive but let it control you and that's when mistakes happen just as no fear will cause one to make rushed decisions. It was a tight rope balancing act and all this came from Alex forcing Cecil to walk through the everfree forest at night while he shot hard foam tipped arrows or powder balls from a slingshot at Cecil from the shadows teaching him to always be aware. It was cruel but it was paying dividends now.

Cecil hugged the wall stalking down it like a cat on the hunt. His normally loud boots were quiet as if he was walking on air. Each step he took was ready to be a fighting stance if need be. The only time he stopped was when he heard loud hooves running down the hall. A crossbow bolt slamming into the wall followed by the loud screams of a mare. She let out another scream but it was choked out replaced with gagging and loud pops. Cecil made his way to the end where the staircase was and looked down the hall.

He wished he had never even peaked because what he saw next nearly made him puke. The mare was wrapped in the coils as the serpent crushed her. Blood soaking the scales as it uncoiled revealing the mangled body of the mare with bones sticking out of her joints as more blood leaked onto the floor but then the horrific part happened and the serpent pony picked the mare up and started to swallow her whole. Cecil watched in stock horror as the impression of the mare’s head went down the neck followed by the rest of her body all while the serpent ponies arms pushed her flank trying to shove her down as quickly as possible with the corners of its mouth turned up in a smile. Finally, it swallowed her and she was now a lump in the serpent's stomach.

Cecil was frozen with fear. Nothing in this world could have ever prepared him to witness that. His mind replayed the image over and over in his head until he saw the forked tongue slip out and the serpent pony immediately turn his way. Cecil ducked behind the wall using every ounce of willpower to keep his breathing under control. He heard the squeak of the snake's body rubbing against the floor getting closer and closer slowing down just before it turned the corner. He wanted to reach for the gun but his promise to Flurry flared in his head forcing him to grit his teeth and be ready for this fight.

Flurry with a few other students had been watching him as he made his way down the hall but when he stopped and froze they got concerned. The last thing they saw was Cecil pressing his back against the wall with a fearful look on his face before the serpent pony rounded the corner and the fight started causing Flurry to rush out as she watched Cecil jump in the air pulling the serpent pony into a headlock trying to choke it out but the serpent stood taller slamming him into the ceiling and then into the wall. Flurry was just getting her spell ready when the serpent pony launched as Cecil biting down on the coat.

“CECIL!”

Flurry screamed out in blind panic but the serpent reeled back in pain as the coat broke the fangs causing the serpent pony to leak venom everywhere. Flurry wasn't wasting the opportunity as Cecil groaned getting to his feet. Her horns charged and she teleported behind the serpent pony immediately casting a lighting spell into its back that made thunder clap and shake the whole building as the lightning spell burned the scales, leaving a black charred spot on the back. The serpent pony dropped and twitched for a second as it tried to get up but Cecil was ready with a swift kick to the head. The kick sent its head into the opposing wall where Cecil for added measure had another waiting. This time the second kick was enough to knock it out. Without waiting any time Cecil looked at the window ordering Flurry to break it. She did as Cecil looked down the hall to the frightened students.

“COME ON MOVE YOUR ASS!”

He yelled trying to motivate them to get moving. Flurry dashed out the window using her wings to hover in the air ready to catch the ponies but her eyes widened with fear as she looked at the garden and saw dead students filled with arrows or with spears in their backs, crawling with the serpents who all saw her and immediately started firing bolts at her. She teleported inside appearing in front of Cecil whom she immediately hugged in a death grip as the arrows slammed into the building some breaking the window and sticking into the ceiling.

Cecil picked her up as the students who had been brave enough to make the run were frozen in fear as their hope had been crushed before them. Cecil ran past them telling them to get moving. His verbal commands shook them out of their shocked state and they all retreated back to the classroom where Cecil and a few other stallions used what they could to barricade the door. In minutes the door was being pounded on by the serpents who hissed loudly like a steam engine releasing excess steam.

The students were in a precarious situation as panic was settling in deeper. Cecil was losing control of the situation as he observed the students. Some were rocking back and forth hugging their knees as they prayed to make it out. Others were hugging each other for dear life and a few wrote down their last words already given up. The situation was dire and only getting worse as the door threatened to break open with each hit. Flurry was staying strong but the concerned look in her eyes told Cecil she was almost to her own breaking point. Cecil took a careful look out of the broken window and nearly had his head taken off by crossbow bolts but suddenly hope, real hope. In the air were hundreds of carriages on their way to the school with guard ponies glistening in their armor. Cecil ran to his desk and started writing down dashes and dots.

“What are you doing?”

Flurry asked as she wondered what plan he had now. Cecil smiled as he handed her the paper.

“The guard is on its way and I need you to make those beautiful horns flash with blinding light. Each dot is a flash each dash is a seconds pause. Your father will see it and know we are alright.”

When a nearby pony heard the mention of the guard he stood up shouting.

“The guard is coming everypony!”

Immediately several rushed to the window to see only for arrows to sink deep into their necks and faces spilling more blood on the floor and causing the ones who didn't run to scream in fear. Another bang on the door and this time it cracked open. Cecil looked to Flurry giving her a deep kiss before he ran to the door slamming his own body against it.

“Get that message out Flurry!” He then looked to the remaining classmates. “Unicorns use your magic to hold this door, earth ponies I need your strength.”

Of the remaining only three earth ponies helped him hold the door while one unicorn used her magic to brace the door. Meanwhile, Flurry at a safe distance from the window casted the spell and it was blinding. The entire room filled with white dazing the ponies. Even with his eyes closed Cecil was still seeing spots from the sheer brightness. When she finished She was about to turn but Cecil told her to keep casting until she got a response. She did and finally, she saw it a bright light from a carriage in the middle was making its reply. Studying it carefully she relayed the flashes and pauses to Cecil who sighed and looked almost guilty.

Flurry knew something was up right then as she read his expression like an open book. Marching over to help brace the door with her own magic she glared at him knowing that she had been tricked she just didnt know how.

“What did I just tell my father? Tell me Cecil what the hell did you have me do!?”

Cecil stepped back and pulled her in for a long passionate kiss. This didn't feel like a lovey feely kiss but more of a goodbye kiss. When he pulled away his eyes were filled with a mix of regret and determination.

“I'm getting us out of here and your father just gave me the green light.”

Cecil pulled his revolver out and it all made sense. The message was asking her father if he could use his firearm and Shining just cleared it. Everypony in a position of power worst nightmare just came true as Cecil leveled the gun to the door. He pulled the hammer back as the blue crystals in the cylinder glowed with magic. He had a second of hesitation when the door slammed open. Sending the desks barricading the door flying. One hitting Cecil square in the stomach and down to the floor. In a blink, the room was flooding with the serpents.

Time slowed down for Cecil as he watched the serpents stab their swords completely through the classmates. Blood was flying in the air as the menacing war faces the serpent ponies wore struck terror into the innocent ponies. Cecil watched as one tackled Flurry in the middle of charging a spell. Her head bounced on the floor as the Serpent pony quickly sent a punch into her head. Rage filled Cecil as something deep inside finally came alive. He could feel it burning through his veins like a wild forest fire. All resentment and apprehension about killing melted like snow as his eyes in that split second drained their color replaced with an inferno of crimson red.

The gun rang out nailing Flurry’s attacker in the head creating a golfball sized hole for the exit wound and like a whip crack the barrel was pointed at another. ‘Blam’ the bullet was perfectly placed just under the arm entering the right lung, through the heart, and out the other lung. His dangerous eyes turned to see one charging him and his free hand reached up fanning the hammer ‘blam blam blam’ Three bullets left the barrel two hitting the heart in a bit sized area and one right between the eyes all before the serpent started his fall. The last bullet went to save the unicorn mare as she was being wrapped up in coils. Blood and brain covered her but she was saved.

Cecil got up picking up a short sword from the dead and began clashing swords. Fighting the serpents had been a challenge before but now with one side kick to the serpent's chest, sending it flying into the wall with his boot impression cut into the scales. The fighting had only taken seconds but after the shots and the kick that crushed the serpent's chest only five remained and they had fear rush through them as they stared into those red glowing eyes filled with only the purest form of hatred and anger. They were feeling the physical energy of Cecil's wrath and it petrified them.

Cecil flicked the cylinder to his revolver open and a heat wave rolled out of the now red crystals as they quickly turned back to blue. When all the crystals were back he flicked the cylinder closed holding the sword in a fighting stance and rushed them. Two of the five tried to intercept him. Cecil cut the one to his left arm off and spun out of the way letting his duster flair out like a cape as the revolver leveled with the attacker's head. ‘Blam’ Cecil turned to the armless one and rang out another shot square in his head. Three bolt arrows bounced off his duster and he threw the sword at one serpent pony burying it deep in its chest where he aimed his revolver and fired again. After that serpent pony dropped dead with a bullet between the eyes Cecil rushed the last one grabbing it by the throat and pulling it down as it tried to reel back. It swung its sword but the blade only bounced off the duster. Cecil forcibly pulled the serpent down to his eye level and that's when the color drained out of the serpent pony. Cecil tightened his grip crushing the windpipe and dropping the serpent pony to the floor as it tried to gasp for air watching until it finally choked to death.

Cecil was on a bloodlust high as he saw a massive group of eight serpent ponies rushing down the hall. He cooled the crystals off and put the revolver at his hip. He fanned the hammer sending six shots down range. He flicked open the cylinder and in a second it was cool before he slammed it shut firing another six rounds in a second. In three seconds all eight attackers were dead and none seemed to be coming at the moment.

Cecil looked at the carnage with uncaring until his eyes landed on Flurry and the memory of her angry face just before the attack burned into his mind. Suddenly he dropped to his knees as his body felt more like a lead weight as if he had just ran a marathon and then gone to the gym. Fluttering his eyes open they were now back the normal green. Shaking his head as he now fought his own drowsiness he made it to Flurry and flopped down next to her carefully pulling her head into his lap. He examined her and thankfully she was going to be alright. She would need a few stitches in the back of her head but she was going to be fine.

As if on cue she slowly opened her eyes with a fuzzy haze as she tried to remember what happened. The first thing she saw was Cecil smiling down at her with relief and worry written all over his face and before she could ask what happened she felt throbbing pain in the back of her head as she groaned and rubbed it with her hand. Her eyes went wide when she pulled her hand back and saw the blood that's when it hit her and she remembered where she was at. Sitting up in a panic her eyes were even wider with fear as the bodies laid around her. Looking down she saw the revolver in his hand. Flurry then reared back and punched Cecil as hard as she could in the jaw.

“How could you!” She screamed “How could you trick me like that Cecil! We are a team a couple bonded forever and you do something like this to me!”

Cecil wasn't expecting this kind of lash back as he rubbed his sore jaw but he knew this would be coming.

“We were in the final moment Flurry. At least this way your father can say he ordered the use but even if he didn't I was going to use it. We were going to die…YOU were going to die if I didn't. You think you can't live without me? Honey, I can't even think about waking up and not seeing you by my side. I had to do something.”

She glared at him as her fists clenched and then the throbbing headache from her wound came back.

“We will talk about this later right now isn't the time or place.”

She ripped off some of her dress and wrapped it tightly around her head hoping to stop some of the bleeding. Flurry was taking in the destruction trying to see if she could spot survivors. That's when it hit her. Of the thirty six classmates only eight survived after the last attack. The friends she made in that class were dead and more ponies she knew were probably dead as well.

Her heart tightened and her stomach rolled as tears filled her eyes. Looking over a mare named Birdy was laying lifeless on the ground with her eyes still wide open and mouth agape from screaming. A knife had cut her stomach open spilling her guts onto the floor. Flurry started choking up with tears and as a last effort to make things seem a little better, she nervously closed the mares eyes. She felt strong arms wrap around her and a hand pull her head against the rough dragon leather. She melted and hugged Cecil tightly as she cried hard into his chest. Finally, the limit had been reached as all the depression and sadness flowed out of her heart. The friends she lost in this classroom and the atrocities she witnessed they all finally surfaced.

They sat like that as the other ponies gathered around making a group hug as they cried and mourned the lose. They didn't get long like that as metal armor echoed and clanked into the door. Shining Armor rounded the door and immediately went to hold his daughter. When she realized who it was she cried even harder calling out to him as he kissed her cheek and held her tight against his body. Cecil stood off to the side wishing his own father was there to comfort him. He looked down at the floor seeing the blood covering his boots and the ends of his pants. He knew he did the right thing but unlike his father, his moral compass was still intact he the guilt of what he had done had a heavier weight than he could ever imagine.

Cecil wanting time to grieve, walked out of the room seeing even more of the dead as guard ponies escorted the students out of the classrooms. Nearly all of them had the same shocked and scared look about them. Cecil felt his tears getting wet but he held it in as best he could. It wasn't until a hoof tapped him on the shoulder when he felt the wet hot tears rolling down his cheeks. Looking back he saw Shinning looking up at him with empathy and then he pulled Cecil into a tight hug. Cecil dropped to his knees wrapping the king in a tight embrace and finally letting all that emotion he had been holding back out. Shinning just held Cecil even tighter as he let the teenager cry his pain out.

When it was all over Cecil looked at Shining sniffling and flustered and asked in a weak horse whisper.

“Why, Why arn't you angry like Flurry.”

Shinning's look of empathy only grew as he patted Cecil on the shoulder.

“Because my daughter is alive because of your actions.”

Shining gently lifted Cecil up back to his feet and looked at the classroom for a second then back to Cecil.

“It's not easy to understand and it sure as hell isn't easy to cope with but in time Flurry will accept and be grateful for what you did and you need to remember without your bravery I would be carrying you both out in body bags. You saved your wife, you saved the princess, you saved the crystal empire.”

It didn't feel right to hear congratulations for doing some awful things. The memory of crushing the Serpent ponies windpipe and watching as he choked was still playing in his head as well as the pure rage he felt while on his blood lust. Hearing the congratulations was like pouring alcohol in a wound. You knew it has to be done but it's going to hurt. As Cecil looked up he saw Candance escorting Flurry out of the classroom. She had an emergency blanket wrapped around her body and barely even glanced at him which only added to the pain in his heart.

“I tricked her you know.”

Cecil said in a weak broken voice. Shining turned to him with a knowing smile and sighed.

“I know. She would have never sent that message if she knew what it said. That was clever thinking Cecil.”

Cecil just nodded and looked back to the floor. He didn't know what to do from this point on. He wanted to be with Flurry but she obviously didn't want to be around him then his mind flashed with Baron's face and suddenly the dread of just thinking that his best friend from the very start could be in one of those bags nearly made him hurl. He quickly excused himself walking down the school halls to the gym where all the guard ponies were gathering the students to take attendance.

Cecil walked on taking in the full front of the carnage. Doors were ripped off hinges and classrooms were covered in red blood with dismembered corpses. Some of the floors still had blood puddles but the worst sight was seeing the main entrance. Bodies from both sides were scattered around. Some were even the guard in their attack. He tried to block it out but all he could do was feel himself getting angrier. He had the power to stop this madness and he chose to hole himself up in a room like a coward up till the last second. If it had been his father Alex would have…

He had to stop and think about that. What would his father have done in a situation like this? More than likely slapped Flurry and told her to get over it while he went around the school risking life and limb. Cecil didn't know how to answer that question and frankly, he didn't want the answer to it. He was already unstable like so many survivors that he just wanted to see Baron and know he was alive. Arriving at the gym the guards immediately saw him and bowed. That nearly shocked Cecil out of his boots. No guard bowed for him even after the marriage.

“H-hey don't do that. The guard has never bowed to me before no need to start now.”

“Your Highness, you protected the Princess and you, by marriage, are a noble. After today it's time we started treating you as such.”

Cecil felt himself deflate a little more knowing his casual relationship with the guard ponies was over but he focused.

“Then please give me a report on the attendance.”

The ponies raised their head as one escorted him into the gym. When the students saw Cecil you could hear a pin drop. They all stared at him but it wasn't hate it was like kids staring at a parent waiting for instructions. Over the course of their marriage, Cecil had been oblivious at his new role. He was not only nobility but the next in line for the throne and when this tragic event took place he was no longer Cecil Steel the goofy human married to the princess he was Prince Cecil Steel heir to the Crystal Empire.

He looked around seeing all the distraught looks in the student's eyes, and some with just enough medical attention to keep them stable. He walked to the stage podium and sat down taking his hat off he ran a hand through his hair letting out a long exasperated sigh before looking up at all the eyes on him.

“I-I need a voice amplifier.”

One stallion unicorn stepped up to the plate with a charming smile.

“Then let me assist you ole chap.”

Cecil’s eyes brightened when he heard that voice. Baron was alive and looked like living hell. One eye was swollen shut his back left leg was in a splint and he had numerous bloody bandages around his stomach. Cecil nodded as he felt the magic envelope his throat.

“I'm not one for speeches hell my grammar barely passes at this school. I know you're all looking for an answer as to why this happened. Im looking for the same answer myself, but im going to shoot straight with you. Every pony here knows when I get hit I usually hit back and today we all got hit and hit hard. We lost loved ones, friends, and most if not all of us will never forget this day. That leaves us with two options. We either sit on our asses and live in fear for the next attack or…”

Cecil stood up on the stage scanning the room at all the broken and defeated ponies.

“We stand up and hit back. I know peace should always be the first choice but how far are willing to let this be? How much have we all lost today? How much did they take from us? Im mad, Mad as a hornet that they had the balls to come into our land, into our school, and take the lives of our friends! Im ready to start swinging, Im ready to put them in their place and show them our kindness is not weakness!”

Ponies started standing up walking closer to the stage shouting in agreeance with his proposition of retaliation. When they felt the fire for revenge course through them it was contagious as more and more began talking about signing up for the guard.

“Today we lick our wounds, tomorrow we bury our dead and mourn them, but after that, we grit our teeth, we pack our bags and kiss our mothers and fathers goodbye, we stallion the fuck up and we show those snake bastards we arnt the weak easy targets. We show them we won't roll over and that there is a line that can't be crossed! By the time we are done with them, no species will ever question whether we will be easy! We will bring the fight to them so our sons and daughters never have to experience something like this again! We will bring our vengeance and fury down so hard on them that they will be talking about it for the next one thousand years!”

The gym erupted in cheers and stomping hooves. Cecil got off the stage and as he did ponies touched him as a sign of respect making a hole for him and Baron to follow. When the two were out of the gym they immediately hugged and stayed like that as if they were two brothers seeing each other for the first time in years.

“You scared the shit out of me when I realized you might be gone.”

Baron chuckled a little in light of the dark circumstances.

“I would have if a certain human didn't fire his gun alerting the entire invading army where he was. The class put up a fight but we were only extending our last breaths….It was bad Cecil…a third of the class is just…”

Cecil put a hand on Baron's shoulder and with a sobering look Baron knew he understood and really Cecil was the one who had the worst of it. Baron knew what a gun was and what destructive forces it could bring. He knew the shots he heard weren't meant to injure. Once they got done with their understanding Baron looked at the floor clearly uneasy about something.

“Cecil…from your speech…does this mean military?”

“Or the Sky Raiders. Either way, I'm going to be on those front lines and not a damn soul is going to stop me.”

Baron was afraid of this so he had to follow up with another question.

“And Flurry?”

“She got hurt because I hesitated. She's fine now but seeing her on her back getting sucker punched across the face…”

His hands clenched into tight fists as his eyes narrowed to one of the dead serpent ponies.

“The world was afraid of a second Alex Steel. Im going to show these things why they should have been afraid and left sleeping dogs lay.”

Baron inhaled deeply as he sat on his rear using a hoof to whip blood from his mouth. All the innocents in the school had been ripped from them and some will never get over it. Some will cower in fear and pray to forget. Some will be like Cecil and seek revenge. The most concerning point would be if Cecil ended up like his father after the war or mostly return to his old self. Only time would tell.

End